GPS Magazine 5772 by Great Park Synagogue

Great Park Synagogue Rabbi Rabbi Dovid Hazdan E-mail: rabbi@greatpark.co.za Assistant Rabbi Rabbi Shmuel Simpson Chazan (Yamim Nora’im) Oshy Tugendhaft Chairman Clive Blechman Treasurer Paul Werner Choir Master Kevin Derman Youth Director Choni Gavin Barmitzvah Josh Victor Bnot Mitzvah Rebecca Sarchi

Rabbi Dovid Hazdan

Our congregation is Baruch Hashem growing and additional seats are being added into the Shul to meet demand. There are increasing numbers of weddings and Bat / Bar Mitzvahs being celebrated at our shul.

Office Staff Shul Secretary Sandy Budin Bookkeeper Sandy Zacharowitz Receptionist Julie Krossynski Administration Assistant Lynda Smith

We are grateful to Rabbi Shmuel and Goldie Simpson for the creative events, dinners and programmes that they have initiated. We are particularly encouraged by the increase in Torah learning that is taking place at Great-Park. The JLI adult education courses have attracted over a hundred people on Monday nights. Additional Shiurim and one-on–one learning sessions have started in homes and in offices, as well as on-going professional Parenting Workshops at the Shul.

Cover Design Ivor Ginsberg Layout & Printing: Copystat Instant Print Services Great Park Synagogue Postnet Suite 95, Private Bag X92418 Norwood 2117 Tel: 011 728 8152 Fax: 011 728 8154 E-mail: sandyb@greatpark.co.za Website: www.greatpark.co.za

Our website www.greatpark.co.za which is attracting increasing numbers of “hits” from all over the world has become an essential communication tool for our members and beyond. Our community has become a catalyst and call for Jewish unity, bringing together over fifty communities and organisations to the annual Lag Ba’omer celebration.

Our vestibule has recently been graced with pictures and portraits of leaders and builders of our illustrious past. They are remembered, not in a museum exhibit, but rather, surrounded by the dynamic bustle of a vibrant rejuvenated community.

Rabbi Cyril Harris Community Centre Chairman Ernest C Leibowitz Executive Director Leon Lotzoff Director Hazel Cohen Operations Director René Sidley Tel: 011 728 8088

In Touch Magazine Lynda Smith

sanctity to many of our families and to our Shul.

s we celebrate our twelfth Rosh Hashanah in our magnificent Great-Park Synagogue, we also begin preparations for the centennial year since the laying of the foundation stone of the Great Synagogue in Wolmarans St in 1913. We have been blessed with the unique wealth of our rich history that is being infused with innovation, energy and vision.

Our outreach initiatives are having a significant positive impact on vital projects in Orange Farm and Alexander Township. We are proud of the achievements of the Rabbi Cyril Harris Community Centre which brings a wealth of interesting cultural, academic and entertaining programmes and activities to Great-Park. We are grateful to the CSO for their exceptional commitment to enhance the security at our Shul. We thank our congregants who have assisted by volunteering for security duties.

The youth services are expanding and now include post Bar and Bat Mitzvah programmes.

We are particularly indebted to our beloved chairman Clive Blechman and to our Honorary Treasurer Paul Werner and to the entire committee for their dedication and love with which they so ably lead. We thank our loyal team at the office and all who give of their time and energy to our Shul. We look forward to the soul-stirring Tefilot of Oshy Tugendhaft and our beautiful choir led by Kevin Derman.

We are grateful to our enthusiastic Minyanaires who ensure our strong daily Minyanim.

May the warm atmosphere of joy and unity continue to grow our wonderful community. May this Rosh Hashana 5772 usher in a happy, peaceful and sweet New Year for our families, our community, for South Africa, for Israel and for the entire world.

The building of our new Mikvah will commence shortly. We are grateful to Tyrone Zinman who has shouldered the mammoth task of raising the funds required for this project. Our Mikvah will add a dimension of blessing, holiness and

Ketiva VeChatima Tova. 1

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Chief Rabbi Dr Warren Goldstein

The fish out of water analogy was used by the great sage of Talmud, Rabbi Akiva during the Roman oppression when it was forbidden to study or teach Torah. He defied the decree, putting his life at risk, and was advised not to do so - advice which he rejected comparing it to a fox warning a fish of fishermen’s nets downstream, and advising them to avoid being captured by leaving the water.

n behalf of the South Africa Jewish community, it is an honour to extend warmest Rosh HaShana greetings to the Great Park Shul community.

Life is our most precious gift from G-d. At this time of year as we pray to G-d to be given another year of life, to be written into the “Book of Life”, we need to appreciate the value of every moment that G-d has given us to live on this earth.

Rabbi Akiva was arguing that we are the fish and the Torah is our water and that without it there would be no Jewish People.

Rabbi Yisrael Meir Kagan, known as the Chofetz Chaim, was one of the greatest Torah scholars and leaders of the Jewish world until his passing in 1933. In those early years of the twentieth century, many Jews were leaving Europe to live in the United States of America.

As we the South African Jewish community prepare for the new year, let us do so acutely aware that the sure path to a vibrant and eternal future, as individuals and as a community, lies in our loyalty to Torah. As we say in the evening prayers: “For it [the Torah] is our life and the length of our days”.

The story is told that the Chofetz Chaim asked someone who had just returned from a visit to tell him something about America. The man answered that in America, they say, “Time is Money”, the Chofetz Chaim’s rejoinder was that “Time is Life”.

My wife, Gina and I wish you G-d’s blessing for a good and sweet year, and may we all together be inscribed in the Book of Life.

Every second and minute that passes does so forever and can never be retrieved, and is part of the limited gift of life that G-d has given us. Judaism teaches us to appreciate every precious moment of life by, for example, saying blessings of thanks and gratitude to G-d for simple pleasures, such as eating a fruit or wearing special new clothes. The Talmud says that we must gives thanks to G-d for every breath of air we take. But Judaism teaches that life is not only about living in this world. G-d has placed within us an immortal soul that lives on in the world-to-come. Pirkei Avot (6:7) says, “Great is Torah for it gives life to those who do it, both in This World and the World to Come.” The Torah shows us the path of life. It is called “a tree of life for those who grasp it” and shows us how to live and be truly alive in this world and the next. It also shows us how to ensure the vitality and endurance of the Jewish People. You often hear debates about how to ensure Jewish continuity. History has proven that only when Jews are connected to Torah is there a sustainable Jewish future. The Talmud (Avodah Zara 3b) says that the Jew without Torah is a fish out of water and cannot survive. Rav Yosef Yehuda Leib Bloch, explains the analogy: a fish on dry land flips and flops so vigorously that an ignorant observer may think that it is alive rather than in its death throes. So too people often are mistaken when they think that there is a Jewish future without Torah. 3

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Clive Blechman - CHAIRMAN

s Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur draw near, I feel blessed that we are given the opportunity to reflect on the past year, to take stock of the progress we have made so far and the areas where we still have room for growth. This is an opportunity to look at not just ourselves, but also our community, to think about how we want it to develop, as well as how we can drive the change we want to see in the community. It is an opportunity to think about our focus, direction and commitment, to both our own spiritual growth and to that of the community as a whole. Last year we celebrated the tenth anniversary of the Shul’s relocation to Oaklands, and the shul’s community has grown stronger since. The original Great Shul dates to 1914, and has journeyed through Currie Street before settling here. With great pride, we have noted that the children’s services are well attended and their knowledge of prayers is rapidly advancing. In this last year we have seen a growing number of Bar mitzvahs and Bat mitzvah groups, as well

as more young adults’ dinners, which are well attended. We can be assured that the next generation is preparing to play an active role in the community. We at the Great Park shul are one family and part of the greater Jewish family. We are proud of our shul, which is steeped in tradition and history, as the former seat of the nation’s Chief Rabbonim and centre of the Johannesburg Jewish community. The shul has been the centre of numerous community events, including our Lag B’Omer bonfire in the forest attended by more than 2500 people from 40 shuls around Johannesburg. It also benefitted the less fortunate of our city with many attendees donating blankets. Our other events have included Purim and Simchat Torah parties, as well as the Shavuot celebration. We are always there to make you feel at home and part of your Great Park Shul. Congregants and visitors enjoy coming to our shul and it has become widely known for its warm and friendly

atmosphere. We are a community where all look forward to the joy and reward of Shabbos and the Yom Tovim: a shul where every morning starts with the Shacharit service and every day concludes with the Ma’ariv service, enriched by all who participate. This Rosh Hashanah we will once again be inspired by our beloved Rabbi Hazdan, together with the beautiful Chazzanut of Oshy Tugendhaft as well as the singing of our choir, led by Kevin Derman. As Chairman, I feel privileged to be part of such a vibrant community and to serve with such a cohesive and dynamic committee as ours. I thank the committee for their dedication, effectiveness and support. I would also like to thank the staff for keeping the shul well maintained and running smoothly, as well as the CSO and our security staff for keeping the Shul safe. My family joins me in wishing you and your families in the Great Park Shul community a prosperous and healthy 5772. Shana Tova, and may you be inscribed in the book of life for a good year.

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Paul Werner - TREASURER

site. Your wonderful personality has resonated so well within the community. I would also like to thank the ladies who work tirelessly behind the scenes namely Sandy Budin, Sandy Zacharowitz, Julie Krossynski and Lynda Smith. Its not easy holding up the fort but you guys do a great jobâ&#x20AC;Ś thank you.

ince the opening of the new synagogue more than ten years ago the last financial year under review has been our most successful year from a turnover perspective. The Great Park Synagogue is in a far healthier financial position than she was five years ago. The synagogue has evolved over the years from just offering daily services to encompassing various programmes for the wider range of the community.

To my fellow committee members, thank you for all your assistance and support during the year. Lastly but most importantly to our Chairman who has to listen to all our moans and groans what would this community do without you. You are cherished and loved by all and may your leadership go from strength to strength.

Besides these services, various programs have been on offer which have been very well supported and attended. We are becoming famous for our various festival dinners and a standard has evolved where each year the evenings are more spectacular than the previous.

I hope that the year 5772 is a sweet and special year for all the members of the Great Park Synagogue and there respective families â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a Shanah Tovah and a happy and healthy year.

I believe the synagogue is in a very special place at the moment where, with all our renovations and future expansions, the future for our community looks extremely bright. One of my appeals to the greater community will never cease, and that is from a going concern perspective. It is absolutely imperative that every member pays their fees timeously and they continue to dig deep into their pockets for the relevant appeals, especially when honoured with an Aliyah or a Pesicha. Our members need to be more responsible in the way they manage their outstanding fees due to the synagogue. Measures have been put in place to tackle this problem. Due to the growth of the synagogue and the increase in catered functions, the office has become more involved in assisting with these events. Lynda Smith has been employed as an administrative assistant to take care of our computer needs, the annual magazine, and, very importantly, over seeing the various functions. This will allow other members of staff to get back to basics and do what they were employed to do. Having said that, allow me to thank all our members who have supported us in paying there current and outstanding membership fees. To our generous donors, you have made such a difference to our Synagogue as your generosity is so well needed. A word of thanks to our Rabbi Dovid Hazdan for his dedication and commitment to the Great Park Synagogue. Your support and your love for the community is an inspiration to all your members. A special word of thanks to Rabbi Shmuel Simpson for his expertise in launching the Great Park Synagogue web5

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Oshy Tugendhaft - CHAZZAN

already at that tender age by the Carusian tones of the immortal Chazzan Alter who taught me my first solos as a child chorister prior to my studies, with the illustrious Chazzan Mandel.

I remember as a child participating every Shabbat with my parents zâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;l in the services at the Great in Wolmarans Street, inspired

What an honour it was for me-tinged, I must say, with sadness- to have been invited many years ago to officiate as Chazzan at the closing Shabbat service of the Great. How awe inspiring it is for me each year to

t is with great pleasure that I am able once again to officiate as Cantor in this magnificent Synagogue over the High Festivals. Little did I realise when I was first asked to officiate in 2005 that this would become an annual event! But what a fulfilling spiritual experience it always is.

be back at the same Great Park Synagogue standing on that very same Bimah, officiating as Chazzan together with your choir under the excellent baton of Kevin Derman, and to participate in the uplifting services led by your beloved Rabbi Hazdan. May our song and our prayers be accepted on High for a Gâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;mar Chatima Tova.

Choir

Allan Sasoon

David Friedlander

Dean Murinik

Henry Stoch

Hymie Bloom

Jeff Levinthal

Kevin Derman

Larry Mallach

Lorenzo Landauer

Melvyn Seinker

Paul Minsker

Sydney Derman

Zvi Offer

With best wishes to all the congregation for a happy and healthy new year. Felicity & Hymie Berger. 7

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Shul Committee Our Shul Team

From Left to Right (Back): Uri Krost, Les Matuson, Geff Geffroy, Sean Kramer,Kevin Norwitz, Brad Serebro. Front Row: Tyrone Zinman, Rabbi Hazdan, Clive Blechman, Paul Werner.

Mel Kur Gabbai

Sandy Zacharowitz Accounts

Sandy Budin Secretary

Lynda Smith Administrative Assistant

Staff

Julie Krossynsky Receptionist

Harvey Silver Catering Supervisor

Michael Ramanala Kitchen and Housekeeping

Alfred Mhono Kitchen and Housekeeping

Eric Moyo Kitchen and Housekeeping

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Rabbi Shmuel Simpson

ven though I’ve been living in South Africa for over two years I still get asked “Nu, so how do you like living in South Africa?” I would be lying if I said that all is perfect. Every country has its challenges and, as far as I know, paradise has not yet been discovered. But what I did find is a wonderful community that is unparalleled anywhere in the world. What is fascinating about human nature is our ability to acclimate to any environment. This idea came to mind after being asked, once again, “So how’s South Africa treating you?” It dawned on me that after living here for an extended period I stopped thinking about life and simply went about living it. I no longer contrasted it to life back in the States (except when the power goes down and the internet moves at a turtle’s pace…). The uniqueness of African life no longer

stands out. It simply becomes part of life. When beginning a journey you are full of excitement and perhaps even a bit anxious. But after a while the enthusiasm disappears into the monotony of life. That’s just the way it goes. The awareness and appreciation of the details is only there as long as it is a novelty. Once the freshness is gone we fall back into the routine. Rosh Hashanah is a time of new beginnings. A new page is turned and we start afresh. With a new year before us we recognize the value of each day and the power of each and every moment. We make new resolutions and tell ourselves “This year we will change; this year will be different”. But invariably we fall back into a routine. The challenge we face every single day is to maintain this heightened state of awareness; to ex-

tend the power of Rosh Hashanah throughout the year and not allow the monotony of life to take hold of us. The first thing we do each morning as we wake up is recite the prayer of Modeh Ani, thanking G-d for returning our soul. It is a perfect time to reflect on the idea that each morning is, in fact, a Rosh Hashanah; the first day of the rest of our lives. When we begin each morning in such a manner we no longer take anything for granted and we begin to truly appreciate the gifts that G-d has given us May we all be inspired to wake up each morning and ask ourselves “Nu, so how is life in South Africa?” As we begin a new year, Goldie & I wish you a Shana Tova.

Neil, Lara, Zachary and Lexi Davies wish everyone a Shana Tova and well over the fast. 9

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Choni Gavin - YOUTH DIRECTOR

electable Friday night brochas, Shul Bucks, the world’s greatest popcorn , outings and regular fun-filled services are just some of the wonderful things happening at Great Park Shul. At Great Park we aim to create a warm and exciting atmosphere for Jewish Boys and Girls from all backgrounds. We also aim to create an atmosphere that promotes Jewish education in an informal and unique manner. Reflecting on the past year, we have seen the implementation of a number of exciting projects. The Shul Buck project took off with a bang. This project allows kids to earn shul bucks and redeem them for exciting prizes and gift vouchers. The Friday night Brocha Club has also been a real hit. Once a month we all look forward to the themed brocha. ‘Candyland’ , ‘The Biltong Brocha’; and ‘The Israeli Brocha’ are some of the wonderful brochas we’ve had. Our services are divided into three age groups. The younger group is led by the famous Gina Smookler. The older Boys , by myself, Choni Gavin and our latest initiative, for the older Girls, by Jess Blumberg. We welcome Jess to the youth team and look forward to her involvement in this exciting initiative. Each service is fun and exciting and caters for the specific age group. Unique and fun filled activities are a regular part of our services. We welcome all children with open arms and look forward to seeing many new faces at our services! Blessings for a healthy & prosperous new year!

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July 2011 Summer School in Cambridge UK Gabriella Blumberg

uring the July holidays, I attended a summer school program at Cambridge University for 3 weeks, where I studied Performing Arts. This program offers one the opportunity to learn the subject of one’s choice, while staying in the distinguished and stimulating city of Cambridge.

There were 101 students who attended this program from all around the world. Being only one of two people Jewish and from South Africa, made it very interesting to learn about my new friend’s ways of life. It also made me appreciate my culture and stay true and proud of my values as a Jewish South African Female. Although I intended to avoid the cliché; this was a life changing experience for me that I highly recommend to others.

Students from all around the world aged 15-18, gather together, to achieve a common goal: exposure. Exposure to different cultures, traditions, places, subjects and university life.

I would like to end off with the Latin motto of Cambridge “Sic Itur Ad Astra” – “And Thus Reach for the Stars”.

The city of Cambridge houses 31 beautiful colleges, these colleges date back to the year of 1250. Each designed exquisitely portraying the traditional architecture of the times. The city itself is beautiful; the lush green grass and flourishing summer flowers, the cobbled streets, the authentic and ornate buildings and shops. You walk through the market-filled streets, rich with the diversity of the people who stay there. Being a university city, people from all around the world study there or are drawn toward it simply to explore. The vast array of languages, accents and culture was prominent as one walked or cycled down the cobblestone streets. One of Cambridge’s most distinct and important features is the river Cam that runs through the city. This river is not only there to admire the astounding beauty of the water and the reflection of the colleges in its rippling water; but used recreationally. Punting is the most popular form of boat on this river. This surprisingly takes great skill as it requires one to balance on the back of the punt, hold a long, solid pole, while steering and pushing the boat forward. The experience of attempting this was great fun; fortunately one can also hire skilled ‘punt chauffeurs’ if need be. Every morning from 8-9, Monday- Friday, breakfast was served in the dining hall followed by the class of your course from 9am until 1pm. My course allowed one to develop one’s talent in music, drama and performing arts though a mixture of theory and practical lessons. The program allowed us free time in the afternoon to explore the beautiful city or one could attend optional sport or games. 5.30pm was dinner time followed by a 7pm lecture. This included lectures on: Climate change, Journalism, College Applications, Leadership skills and many other stimulating topics. We would once again have free time in the evening until curfew and there were many optional activities to take part in. Optional excursions to The Globe Theatre, Stratford upon Avon (Shakespeare’s birthplace), London and to the Theatre occurred on the weekends. 11

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Planting of an Oak tree at the entrance of our Shul in memory of Ivan Levy OBM. 11

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Simchat Torah Dinner

Thursday night 20th October 2011 All are welcome to a dinner following hakafot, dancing with the Torah and an exciting childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s presentation & programme!

Serivce begins at 6pm

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Geff Geffroy - MAINTENANCE

e’ve gone full circle and we’re at it again. I would like to share with you what Rabbi Y Medalie has taught us, during our regular Saturday morning Shiurs. When we celebrate Yomtov/Rosh Hashana, it is not just another year where we start all over again, but rather, it is as if we’ve achieved an additional circle as part of a spiral which goes up and up showing growth in Torah learning and general wellbeing. I see this as MAINTENANCE and continuous improvement... which reminds me to reflect on what WE as a committee, together with our charming team in the OFFICE, have achieved in the last year,... too numerous to mention yet important enough to acknowledge and be thankful to all concerned for helping. MERCI for your Team Spirit which is always needed. I’d like to talk about the Mikvah, a project which together with Tyron Zinman and our Rabbi Hazdan is close to our hearts which will MAINTAIN our Spirituality, B.H Its financing has been done totally and inde-

pendently separate from the Shul’s finance. It has its own Mikvah bank account under the careful scrutiny of our Chairman, Clive Blechman and Treasurer, Paul Werner and with the goodwill and goodness of various sponsors it was made possible to bring this project to reality when B.H. work will commence soon. There is room to welcome more sponsors who may wish to be proudly associated with this worthwhile project an integrality of a Shul. A BIG THAN YOU to all donors. Remember that our Shul depends on your continuous donations and subscriptions to MAINTAIN its general running, viability and sustainability. We will continue to improve and grow. We need a library to be built in our small shul to accommodate more Chumashim and an Artscroll set of Talmud which have been donated to us and also to MAINTAIN a better control on the use and lending out of our numerous interesting books. We also need a section in the small Shul to accommodate a coffee machine and fridge to

perk up, MAINTAINand encourage our morning attendees/attendance. We also need in that section storage cupboards to be built to store and keep under lock and key our valuable Yomtov Parochet and paraphernalia. Our central air conditioning may in the future require upgrading to prevent some of the congregants “blowing hot air” when they should be keeping cool during Yomtov services!! Our main chandelier is being looked at presently in order to establish a workable solution vis a vis its mechanism to enable us to lift and raise it before Yomtov when we have to replace all light bulbs... We can’t do, as you know, without The Light. C’est la vie. We will “keep on keeping on” with our MAINTENANCE . Have a Good Yomtov/Chag Sameach, Yours Mon Ami,

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Rabbi Cyril Harris Community Centre

t is once again that time of year when we consider the months that have passed and those that are yet to come. Globally the past year has been difficult, with an increase in natural disasters, political turmoil and economic instability. In such a climate culture, which is such an integral aspect of humanity, plays an increasingly important role. In good times culture may be considered a pleasure and a luxury; in bad times it is a necessity, a survival strategy, an important means of affirming the identity and coherence of a community, and an optimistic and proud acknowledgement of our humanity. Hazel Cohen Director

Ernest Leibowitz Chairman

René Sidley Operations Director

We hope that the events at the RCHCC have contributed to this sense of community and the potency of the human spirit. In the past few years three people who had carried the torch for Jewish culture in South Africa, and who contributed enormously to its richness, not least at the RCHCC, passed away. The loss of Jocelyn Hellig, Mendel Kaplan, and Irving Lissoos is inestimable. We commit ourselves to carry the torch in their memory and in the memory of our beloved late Patron-in-Chief Rabbi Cyril Harris. In summarising this year’s programme what emerges as a kind of resounding refrain is a rigorous and clear-sighted analysis of historical, political, personal difficulties but also the extraordinary ability to transcend them, to find solutions, fulfilment, success and beauty. Many of the lectures, films, book events, and art exhibitions focused on these ideas. Some examples of popular book events: a talk by South Africa’s leading expert on crime, Antony Altbeker on his book Fruit of a Poisoned Tree; a talk by Ronnie Apteker and Gus Silber on their book Ronnie Apteker’s Funny Business: The Secrets of an Accidental Entrepreneur; a talk by Mandy Wiener on her best-selling book Killing Kebble: An Underworld Exposed; a talk by IT whizz Arthur Goldstuck on The Burglar in the Bin Bag: Urban Legends; a discussion with Moeletsi Mbeki and Professor Helen Rees (OBE) an international health expert, on Advocates For Change edited by Mbeki. Lecture highlights were: an audio visual presentation by internationally acclaimed award-winning photographer, Jodi Bieber; a lecture by Andrew Levy on “The Lineage of Jewish Musicians and Composers from

Klezmer to Rock and Roll”; Mike Golding’s fascinating lecture “Did Moses Mendelsohn Attend His Grandson’s Barmitzvah?”; Dr David Gerbi’s inspiring and moving talk on Libya and particularly exiled Jewish Libyans( in partnership with SAJBD); a talk by activist Dennis Goldberg (in partnership with SAUJS); a talk by Mitch Braff, documentary filmmaker from the US, on the wartime photographs of partisan Faye Schulman(in partnership with JHGC). Exhibitions: We have hosted three major exhibitions this year. “Pictures of Resistance: the Wartime Photographs of Partisan Photographer, Faye Shulman”, was an international exhibition (in partnership with the Johannesburg Holocaust and Genocide Centre). “Memories of Muizenberg” which evoked nostalgic pleasure for so many people was a highly successful exhibition bringing a record crowd through our doors. Currently running at the Centre is “The Glory of the Game: Rugby and the Springbok Jewish Minyan” from the SA Jewish Museum. The reputation of our art gallery brought two exhibitions from as far afield as the Karoo and the Overberg – an exciting exhibition of wall hangings and prints by the San people of Nieu Bethesda and a ceramic exhibition by well-known ceramicists David Schlapobersky and felicity Potter from Swellendam. Other exhibitions by the Ivy Artists and Dina Wolovitz added an engaging visual dimension to our space. The Clive M Beck Auditorium has become an increasingly popular venue for live performances. We have hosted Coutneigh Cloud’s dramatized testimony of her grandfather Issy Gurwicz’s Holocaust experiences “The Boys From the Ashes” which was such a success that we had a repeat performance. In partnership with JHGC we hosted singersongwriter, Zola Piatkin who through moving songs and stories celebrated her late sister and her parents, both Holocaust survivors. The talented Laurie Levin entertained us with an exciting musical performance. The award winning Israeli actor and director Roy Horovitz held the audience spellbound with his rehearsed reading of two melodramas. Film highlights: “Homage to Chagall”, “Stanley Kubrick: A Life in Pictures”, “Arguing the World”, award-winning Israeli documentary

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« “Strangers

No More”, “Kentridge and Dumas in Conversation”, “Mahler on the Couch” among many others. The RCHCC has attained a success and popularity beyond our wildest dreams. Our events generally draw full houses and a heart-warming development is the increase of young people attending our events. The RCHCC provides an important forum for dialogue and the Q and A sessions are challenging and enlight-

ening for both speakers and audience alike. As always the socializing over tea is a pleasurable aspect of our Centre and creates a warm and friendly ambience. The twice weekly bridge sessions supervised by Jeff Sapire continue to be very well attended, with people coming from far and wide for the lectures he offers every second week.

Warm and productive relationships with other organizations such as the JHGC, the SAJBD, SAUJS and the SA Jewish Museum confirm the cohesion of the community which we are proud to be a part of. Our Chairman, Ernest Leibowitz, Lolly Lotzoff, and Rene Sidley join me in wishing you all a happy, healthy and sweet Rosh Hashanah and a peaceful 5772.

Wishing everyone a Shana Tova and well over the fast. Clare Shaff and Freda Gordon » 15

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2011/09/22 02:50:39 PM

Dear Hazel Last night was magic. A really wonderful evening. Thank you. DYHazdan Last night was just an amazingly interesting and moving story! Thanks a lot for all the energy you put into these evenings. Merle Ruff Thanks to the two of you for ensuring that we are kept abreast of new books, interesting lectures and the opportunity to meet wonderful people. It was an enlightening year and I thank you for the opportunities afforded. Joanne Moen Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s thanks to YOU for the amazing programme that you manage to put together. You have no idea how much it is appreciated. We look forward to another exciting 2011. Glenda Mansell Thank you so much for everything you do so efficiently and selflessly. Jewish Johannesburg is truly indebted to you both. Michael Golding

Leon Lotzoff Executive Director

Dear Hazel and Rene - You provide a unique and invaluable service always enhanced by your graciousness. Charles and Zelda Isaacson Indeed thank you for a great year of stimulating events. The warmth you display at the Centre is palpable. Steve and Ami Mendelsohn

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2011/09/22 02:50:46 PM

How Can I Forgive Them? By Tzvi Freeman

Question: I understand that you’re supposed to forgive everyone before Yom Kippur. I was told that if I forgive others, G‑d will forgive me. Nevertheless, there are people I cannot forgive. I cannot forgive the teacher who ruined a whole year of my life in sixth grade. I cannot forgive my verbally abusive uncle who made me feel so small over and over. And there are things for which I cannot forgive my parents - even though I really do love them and appreciate them. Does this mean G‑d will not forgive me either?

Response: You’ve probably heard of the Jewish mother who serves her child broccoli and when the child says, “yuk!” the mother responds, “You will eat it and you will enjoy it!” Well, Mom, if you insist, I will eat it. But no matter how much you insist, if I don’t enjoy it, I don’t enjoy it - and I’m sorry, there’s nothing I can do about that. Samething with forgiveness: You can tell a person to hold his tongue. You can tell him to refrain from getting even. You can tell him to not even think about getting even. You can even tell him to do the opposite of how he feels by doing nice things for those who were mean to him - like how Joseph helped his brothers settle in Egypt, even though they had sold him as a slave. But you can’t tell him, “Thou must feel good about this person.” He doesn’t. Too bad. So that’s all forgiveness means: You don’t do anything because of your grudge, you don’t say anything to express your grudge and you don’t even think about why you have a grudge in the first place. When it comes up in your mind, you just ignore it. You say, “Hey, I’m on an adventure through life, and the people with all the baggage have a real drag.” And now here’s a little secret: Feelings are like plants. Don’t water them and they wither away to dust. So too, let your grudges go without any pondering for a short while and one day you wake up and the feeling is all gone.

Thanks to Eli Gordon

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2011/09/22 02:50:49 PM

Mikvah Update Tyrone Zinman

am delighted to say that by the time of publication, the Mikvah building should be in full swing. We have been working on this project for over 2 years and it’s finally coming to fruition. My motivation for getting involved in this project is because Mikvah is one of the main things that brings Hashem into one’s marriage. Keeping the mitzvah of Taharat haMishpacha makes one’s marriage so much more spiritual and actually helps strengthen it. It is difficult to understand how marriages survive without it. Baruch Hashem we have had many con-

gregants donate so generously, that it has made this task that much easier. We thank you all for your generosity. Julian Michaels has donated his services in designing the most beautiful Mikvah that I have seen. We are so appreciative for this. Our honorary Treasurer has graciously accepted the task of managing the costing of the building project for which we thank him most sincerely. Our dear Rabbi Hazdan has dreamed of having a Mikvah at our shul for many years. His passion for this, as well as his passion for the entire community, has been a ma-

jor driving force behind this project. There will be a board put up reflecting all donors’ contributions which will be up for eternity. This is the most beautiful way to honour someone near and dear to you. The levels of sponsorship are: Brick R1,800; Bronze R9,000; Silver R18,000; Gold R36,000; Platinum R54,000 and Double Platinum R108,000. More than two thirds of the required funding has been committed. Our biggest donors have very kindly and generously guaranteed any shortfall should there be one. May you all have a Shana Tovah and Metoekah and Gmar Chatima Tovah.

Tyrone, Wendy, Alon, Carli, Tali, Gilad, Tiferet and Gavriel Zinman, wish the entire congregation a Shana Tova and well over the fast. 18

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Yael Fine - Executive Director - Sothebys Realty SA

o there I was engaged and very excited to marry my fiancé when I began to hear about all the things I needed to do to “prepare for marriage”. Pre-marriage counseling, no problem! I’m always pro talking and opening up as I’m quite the talkative gal and so is my fiancé. Jewish lessons, easy! I contacted my rock star Rebbetzin Goldie Simpson and asked for her support. She was very obliging and we arranged our first lesson pronto. Of course in typical Ya’el fashion I left these lessons to the last minute so I needed to get a move on and start learning.

class again learning about vectors and let me tell you I was never at ease in science class, especially learning about Vectors!

I cannot lie, I was extremely nervous as I wasn’t exactly brought up in the most observant household so I didn’t know what to expect. After all, I knew very little about the mikvah process. I had heard about it once or twice before but thought it was more of an urban myth than anything else. When I was finally introduced to this ritual my body began to tense up. Oh boy I guess this is no myth indeed!

The day was finally here and we drove to the mikvah. It’s apparently very special for the mom to come with so I invited mine. I had heard that a mikvah is nice but I didn’t expect it to be this nice! The marble tiles, the hand soaps, fruity conditioners, huge spacious bathrooms and fluffy cream towels. It really did feel like a spa! My mom waited in the other room while I did my thing. Before I could believe it there I was facing this carefully constructed little pool, it looked very interesting and I couldn’t wait to go in.

But each lesson, I learned a little more about it and honestly I thought the whole thing sounded a little nuts. Dates, times, schedules - to do’s and not to do’s. I felt like I was in science

The big day (I’m referring to the Mikvah) drew closer and I became more relaxed as I started understanding the spiritual connotations more and more - how family purity is the essential backbone of our religion. I began to realize how important it is for us to keep the tradition because it is the best thing you can do as a woman for you, your husband, your family and the world! No pressure…

As I entered the water it was so lovely and

warm I felt like I was back in the womb and for the first time it hit me that I was going to be a married woman and eventually have a family of my own. I felt quite emotional and started praying for a million things and for a lot of people I know. I just couldn’t stop and the truth is I enjoyed it so much I never wanted to get out. I felt like a little spiritual mermaid dipping and praying away. Eventually it was time to get out and when I saw my mother on the other side she was in tears, of joy. I giggled and hugged her. Women can be so silly sometimes but I can’t blame her for feeling emotional as just a few minutes ago so was I. We then had a sip of wine with a prayer and left. On the way back in the car I felt a little different, quite calm, peaceful and most of all relaxed. I think I finally got it and understood why my friends didn’t tell me about it. Mikvah is a very personal experience that you need to discover by yourself to form your own beliefs. I was actually grateful that I had no preconceptions about the experience and that it was pure, natural and untouched - just like the mikvah itself.

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2011/09/22 02:51:14 PM

Clive Weil

t is said that in Israel, there is no, “Gray,” everything, every cause, conflict, conundrum or crisis is circumscribed by the boundaries of “Black,” or “White” The Country is unquestionably a mix of old and new, ancient and modern, liberal and conservative, Orthodox and Secular, Capitalist and Socialist, Ashkenazi and Sephardi. Our Holy Land is a place of diametrically opposed contrasts, opposites, surprises and delights, as are one’s experiences, living there as a new immigrant For me, there were no, “average,’ days, in the nearly 6 years we lived in Israel, As a matter of fact, with the fullness of hindsight, I cannot remember the days, but I do vividly recall the moments, some bad, most good, but all, very special moments in time… I remember, very early on, standing alone on the balcony of our newly renovated home, hearing the rhythmical clip, clop of horses hooves on the tarred road and the din of an improvised loudspeaker blaring the words, “alte zachen, alte zachen” One was immediately transported back to the times of the Shtetl. I had never heard anything like it before. You conjure up a picture of an eastern European peddler, driving a horse and cart, through the, “blotte,” soliciting old clothes and belongings, but, this was not 19th Century Poland, this was modern Israel! He was indeed an ancient peddler, a proud, upright Grandfather seated besides an exquisite young girl, probably his Granddaughter, and as they came into view, one saw two beautiful people. No! They were not Polish, they turned out to be observant Yemenites, dressed in magnificent traditional garb, repeating in Yiddish of all languages, over and over, through an improvised battery driven amplifier, “alte zachen, alte zachen.” Unfortunately, having just moved in, we had no, “alte zachen.” Here was my first encapsulation of the enigma that is Israel, the mix of old and new, ancient and modern, where surprises and delights sometimes literally appear, just up your street.

torial instructions of what to deposit. in each slot. Access was restricted to that side of the building and a head high wall shielded the slots from the street Another two trips later, everything had been deposited. I remarked to my wife Liora what a wonderfully convenient modern system the local Municipality had erected for the purpose of distributing Charity It was only then that I learned to my complete surprise that this was no modern invention at all. It was in fact, the contemporary reincarnation of the, “lishkat chashaim,” or, “chamber of the silent,” of The Temple, where anyone in need could go quietly and take what they needed without the donor or the recipient ever being made aware of each other’s identity. What we in this age of techno speak, euphemistically refer to as a, “double blind encounter,” but what Maimonedes, eight centuries ago referred to in his famous Eight Degrees of Charity (Hilchot Mat’not Aniyim 10:7-14) as the second most honourable. level.one can attain. How wonderfully appropriate? How special? ing?

How inspiring? How car-

Only in Israel!

There followed many wonderful moments that are still etched in my memory. The hubbub of the Markets, the wonderful sounds, colours and smells that assault the senses as you wander around places like Machaney Yehuda in Jerusalem or the Carmel Market in Tel Aviv. Watching from Mishkenot Shananim as the sun sets over the golden walls of the Old City, or the sunset as the red orb descends into the sea, framed by the ruins of ancient Caesarea The Festivals, Purim with every child dressed up as their favourite character, the Latkes and Doughnuts on nearly every corner over Chanukah. Somehow to a traditional but near secular Jew like me, these things brought a quiet fulfillment of my religious beliefs and heritage. There were hundreds of such moments, each uniquely beautiful in its own way. The last, literally arrived whilst we were undergoing the trauma of packing to return to South Africa. We had accumulated, as one does, all sorts of surplus belongings, clothing, cookware and the like. Loads of it in fact.. Where was the Yemenite peddler now, when we needed him most to relieve us of our, “alte zachen?”. A friend whispered in my ear. He said that we could do no better than to take all our surplus belongings to an address in the Town and simply deposit them there… and, at any time of the day or night. I asked for further details, he said that I would understand when I got there. So I packed the first load, filling the car with our surplus clothing and arrived at the address given. I found a simple windowless structure, and on approaching noticed a series of large slots in the wall, with pic21

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2011/09/22 02:51:25 PM

Michael Meyersfeld

hen first approached by the office of the Rabbi to write an article with a life message for Rosh Hashanah, relating it to photography, my immediate response was one of “I’m really not up to this task”, and I declined with due thanks. The following Friday night, before the commencement of the service, I was confronted by the smiling figure of Rabbi Hazdan, who proclaimed, “ We are now going to have our first fight, - I would like you to reconsider your decision ”. With an added twinkle he said, “You know, sometimes the congregation gets bored with the service, and sometimes even with the Rabbi, so they need something to read”. This was hard to refuse. Photography has given me the opportunity to embark on my own journey of self-examination, (one of the messages of Rosh Hashanah), and I hope the following is of some interest. As a small boy, I was fascinated with photography, and I would spend hours in a small recess under the stairwell making black and white contact prints from negatives made with a Baby-Brownie camera. I was constantly with a camera, and was eventually permitted to use my father’s Voigtlander, which I still have today. After my schooling at King Edwards, I went to Wits University to study for a B.Com. It was at this time that my photography began to take off. I joined the Johannesburg Photographic Society, and found myself in the company of many wonderful and skilled photographers, including Mike Feldman, Lou Yudelman, the late Ludi Blum, and many others, who mentored me, and introduced me into what was to become my magical life of photography.

I have witnessed people in times of their great joy and great sorrow, and have always felt privileged at the trusting intimacy the camera permits. The past seven years have been spent working on a body of work entitled “ Life Staged “ which is now nearing completion. They are not random photographs. Each image is planned, sculpted, structured and directed to the point where the desired tension is captured. The four components deal respectively with the conditioning of man, the changing role of woman, judgement, and the seduction and pitfalls of urban society. I have come to realise that we are all intrinsically the same, but don’t always have the courage to confront our own failings, or acknowledge the futility of excess. Perhaps we hide behind our self-made masks, creating a more difficult world for ourselves. Wishing you all a good Yom Tov, and well over the Fast.

After completing my studies, I entered the family business, where I remained for the next two decades during which time I was very active in entering work in International Salons, as well as having several one-man exhibitions. The big moment came when the business was sold, at which point I made the life changing decision to enter the field of professional advertising photography. I am self-taught, and up to this moment the technical requirements of my photography were relatively basic. That all changed, and the learning curve was steep. The required technical know- how transformed me overnight, and I suddenly found myself immersed in the seemingly complex world of strobe lights, view cameras, and so much more. But what a prize was waiting. Straddling the two worlds of advertising and fine art photography, I began to mix with people I had never known before. I met people from varied walks of life with different interests, and different outlooks. I rubbed shoulders with the famous on one day, and the singularly unknown the next, and was very often fortunate enough to sit with them before or after a shoot and get to know a little about the real person. I got to travel far and wide, from Lagos to Kiev, from the banks of the Jukskei River in Alexandra on an icy June morning, to the luxury of a villa in Lake Como. My first book, Gaze began as a photographic study and became a voyage of discovery, education and re-evaluation. It allowed me a unique outsider’s view of the gay community, with many conversations about spirituality, abuse, ostracisation, victimisation and cruelty. I learnt a lot and became acutely uncomfortable with bigotry. 23

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Wishing all congregants Shana Tova and an easy and meaningful fast. Tel: (011) 493-8522 Fax: (011) 493-0235/8332 E-mail: mervynfirst@mweb.co.za 2nd Floor, Pallstate House, 21 Hulbert Road, New Centre, Johannesburg P.O. Box 260525, Excom, 2023

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2011/09/22 02:51:36 PM

Insights, Honour thy Mother and Father Janet Goldblatt

comes from honouring your Mother and Father. More recently, along with my Colleagues in SA, I have embarked on a journey to bring this understanding of systemic thinking into the school system. We launched the programme called Enhancing Children’s Learning (ECL) at King David Victory Park last November. The programme was developed by psychologists, systemic practitioners and educators in the United Kingdom. Eight teachers and social workers from King David were present as well as social workers from various other schools, including Torah Academy. The programme introduces simple tools/processes developing self worth and ‘Opening Space for Inspiration’. They have all reported incredible results from the implementation of these simple but profound processes.

rowing up in Johannesburg during apartheid, in a family that was viewed as ‘rebellious’ was somewhat challenging. My father, Dr Melville Leonard Edelstein, known to many as the “unsung Hero” of the 1976 Soweto riots, was Employed by the West Rand Administration Board as a social worker, he spent most of his days assisting those who were struggling to cope under the oppressive circumstances. He acted as a mediator between the school children and the Nationalist Party Government. Over and above his duties at the West Rand Administration Board and his private practice my father instituted workshops for disabled members of the community so that they would have a place to work and build their self esteem, thus giving them a purpose as well as an opportunity to earn an income. His work with the children, mainly adolescents, was driven by the research he was conducting in order to complete his PHD in Sociology, titled “What do young Africans think”. He was loved and respected by all those who worked closely with him as well as those who knew this kind white man who came (with no agenda or ulterior motive) every day to Soweto to do his job, to help them work through their issues and to cope with their difficult circumstances. I grew up,( thank G-d,) with the knowledge that all men were equal no matter what colour, creed or religion. My father was a religious man. He kept the Sabbath and inspired us to do the same. He never forced us to follow his beliefs, instead, he showed us what it meant to understand, know Hashem and the beauty in the rituals surrounding our religion. Judgement never came into the equation.

I leave you with my message for Rosh Hashanah - honour yourself and all that you bring into this world. Find a space in your heart for inspiration. Inspire yourself to take a journey to find your life’s purpose, honour the gift of life given to you, without judgement and expectation. If you are already living your life’s gift, continue to inspire those around you... set the example of inspiration.

On the 16th June 1976, riots broke out in Soweto at the Morris Isaacson School, my father, they say, was in the wrong place at the wrong time! His offices were in the same place the riots broke out, he was bludgeoned to death. I was 12 years old. This was just the beginning of a journey that would eventually lead me to a place of healing, eventually leading to the healing of others. I call this healing practice the art of Spiritual Psychology. My journey continued into the realm of Metaphysics, taking classes in Kabbalah, numerology, Astrology with a special interest in Archetypes. I began running Archetype workshops based on the Sacred Contracts of Caroline Myss 10 years ago, today I continue with these groups among others that have become enlightening and inspiring. I have found myself living my dream, working in a place that I love - facilitating groups in various modalities, reaching to a place of personal empowerment. I am always energised at work, no matter what the workshop brings. The Archetype Workshop is an introspective tool and a vehicle in which to look at your highest potential, thus aligning you to your soul’s purpose. I like to refer to this as a finding your place of inspiration, a gift you were given by Hashem. In 2005 I began training with Family Constellations Africa into the realm of family and Systemic Constellations. This is a brief overview of Family and Systemic Constellations-: Family and Systemic constellations deal with the unconscious entanglements within our family members and the subsequent relationships and unfolding of our family dynamics as a result. The need for us to belong to our system and our family forms a part of our loyalty, unconscious acts and patterns that we adopt in order to follow our Ancestors. One of the most important aspects behind this work is the ability to honour our Ancestors and their fate. If we are able to do that and take our rightful place in our family system, we feel whole. One of the laws of the Ten Commandments refers to’ Honouring thy Mother and Father’. This for me, is one of the most fundamental values. Your Mother gave you life, if you cannot honour her and look up to her with the deepest respect, thus honouring yourself and your life then in some way, you are not honouring your own life. In a sense your self-worth 25

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2011/09/22 02:51:38 PM

Bnot Mitzvah

Rebecca Sarchi

nce again the Bnot Mitzvah have enjoyed an inspoiring year at Great park shul.

They have enjoyed the weekly lessons where they have covered various subjects such as: Kashrut, shabbat, self esteem, belief in Hashem, tzniut - modesty - to name but a few. The girls have worked enthusiastically and have benefited from the lessons. This is what the girls say are the most important lessons they have learnt this year... Liora: I have learnt how important it is to honour my parents even more than I do now. Hashem created my

parents and by honouring them I honour Hashem - as he created them. Yakira: Being a Jewish woman means doing Mitzvot, and not just doing what I want to do. Serving hashem is the most important thing.

behave. I have also learnt, not only how to keep shabbat, but also how to enjoy keeping shabbat. Tali: I have learnt how to be more careful with keeping Kosher and shabbat.

Georgia: Giving tzedoka is so important. Giving a person a job is even better than giving them money. This gives the person self esteem and self respect.

Julia: Your Jewishness is not determined by what Mitzva you do - as long as you keep Mitzvot.

Carly: I have learnt how to do Mitzvot - not because I have to but because I want to connect to Hashem. Teegan: I have learnt about Tzniut being modest in the way I dress and

I wish all the girls Mazal Tov, mazal tov. May they be a continuous source of nachus to their parents and grand parents and to the entire Jewish nation.

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2011/09/22 02:52:00 PM

Bar Mitzvahs

Josh Victor

he start of the 2011 year brought with it a start to a new exciting initiative launched by the Great Park Synagogue: the Barmitzvah Programme. I was honoured to be asked to run this program. Taking place every Sunday afternoon, the Barmitzvah programme is specifically designed for boys going through their Barmitzvah year, providing them with valuable information covering essential topics aimed at enhancing the experience of their Barmitzvah year and making it more meaningful. In our weekly lessons, we cover a broad range of interesting and stimulating ideas and topics such as understanding the meaning of becoming a Bar Mitzvah, exploring the richness of our Jewish heritage, Jewish tradition and history; imparting pride, awareness, and a sense of responsibility towards the Jewish Nation. Other topics also focus on vital information facing

a teenager in todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s society.. However whilst providing valuable and essential knowledge, it is done so in a fun and informal environment. In addition to the learning, time is spent bonding with the group whilst playing games, sport and partaking in food and drink. We also went on a few external exciting activities such as go-karting, with more planned. I have thoroughly enjoyed this year spent with our group of Barmitzvah boys and seeing them taking up their roles of responsible Jews entering adulthood. I have personally been taken aback by the warmth and kindness shown towards me in the starting of this new roll. I would like to thank, Rabbi Hazdan, the Chairman, Liron Ross and the rest of the committee, and to all the parents of the Barmitzvah boys, for their continuous support. I can only hope that our Barmitzvah programme continues to grow from strength to strength. Wishing the whole congregation a Shana Tova.

Asher Meyerowitz Son of Lenny & Mandy

Brett Phillips Son of Howard & Lauren

Lorenzo Landauer Son of Liza & Greg

Aaron Fainman Son of Pam & Alen

Jonathan Werner Son of Paul & Lisa

Gabriel Rubinstein Son of Robert & Lisa

Brad Norman Son of Allen & Wendy

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2011/09/22 02:52:14 PM

Joel Rosen

wise man once said: “All of life is a journey, which paths we take, what we look back on, and what we look forward to is up to us. We determine our destination, what kind of road we will take to get there, and how happy we are when we get there.” This quote is very true, especially to me, as I have had many directions in what is a relatively short life. Growing up in Durban, I was fortunate enough to be part of an active Jewish community and brought up in a Kosher and observant home. These Jewish roots have taken me on the path to where I am today. I am close to my beliefs and I believe they have defined me as the person I am at present. Growing up in Durban has the added benefit of allowing one to mix with a diverse range of cultures and truly learn and appreciate the complexities of Hashem’s people.

When I finished school, I decided to follow my interest and love for the business environment and study a business degree. After completing my degree, my life took another path where I made the big move to Johannesburg. This for me, was the next stepping stone in my life’s journey and although it was somewhat scary, as I look back, I know it was the best move for me. Since I have been in Johannesburg, I have made a career for myself in the property industry, as well as recently marrying my wife, as we embark on another journey together in life. I have also decided to expand my knowledge and learning by studying further, hopefully bolstering my career and life’s journey. That’s my journey in a nutshell - throughout this time, the only constant has been my Jewish heritage and beliefs which have kept me grounded and have always been there to guide me and keep me on the right

path. I have had the privilege of davening at Great Park shul for the past two and a half years, and I feel as if I am part of the family. In summary, to look again at what the wise man said – I think my journey so far is on the right path and I encourage everyone no matter what changes bring to your life, to keep your heritage close to your heart. This is very relevant in the month of Elul as we daven for a fruitful forthcoming year. Yes, I have had my ups and downs, but it’s taught me to become the person who I am today, and I am happy and grateful for who I am and how my life is turning out at this point in time. I look forward to what the future has to bring and welcome the next path in my journey with open arms knowing Hashem is there to guide me. May Hashem guide you all and may you be inscribed and sealed for a good year. Chag Sameach!

The 48-hour brain By yanki tAuber

Today’s neurology has caught up with yesterday’s science fiction. Maps have been drawn up of the interior of our skull. Virtually every hillock and groove has been tagged: tweak this neuron-transmitter, and you’ll hear lyrics of a song you haven’t heard or re‑ membered in 30 years; pinch that nerve ending, and you’ll zap your craving for potato chips and lose 15 pounds in a month. Well, not quite. But we’re getting there. The year, a body of time with 365 organs and limbs, also has a brain -- the 48 hours of Rosh Hashanah. That’s what the Hebrew words rosh hashanah literally mean -“head of the year.” On Rosh Hashanah, we crown G-d King. On Rosh Hashanah, G-d is aroused, once again, with the desire to create the world. Channels of vitality and awareness connect the 48 hours of Rosh Hashanah to each of the hundreds of days, thousands of hours and millions of seconds of the year, like those that join the brain to its body. That’s why the two days of Rosh Hashanah are so special: the impact of our every action, word and thought increases thousand-fold. If we’re kind on Rosh Hashanah, we’ll be kinder people throughout the year. If we weigh our words carefully during these two days, our speech will be more refined throughout the year. If we focus on a certain weakness of ours and resolve to make a stronger effort, we’ll find our resolu‑ tion translating into action far more effectively than resolutions made at other times. If you can access the brain, you can do just about anything. You can waken memo‑ ries, restore lapsed talents, alleviate fears, magnify joys, abolish prejudices, stimulate interest and charge up motivation. You can basically re-program your life, at least for a year. 29

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2011/09/22 02:52:15 PM

Births

Weddings

David & Michelle Freedman

Solomon Raff, Son of Jackie & Eddie

Yael & Kevin Fine

Kai Burstain Son of Oron & Candice

Michael & Lee-Ann Freeman

Mazal Tov

Opsherinish: Rabbi Hazdan cutting Noah Brasgâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hair on his third birthday.

With best wishes to all the congregation for a happy and healthy new year. Les and Renee Freedman 30

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2011/09/22 02:52:35 PM

MY JUDAISM IS NOT INSPIRING By ARON mOSS

Question: Judaism doesn’t do it for me. To be honest, I don’t understand what you see in it. I’ve been there, done that, and it’s not for me. What do you say to people like me who simply are not inspired by Judaism?

Answer: You remind me of the story of the poor man’s cheese blintzes. A poor man was once walking the streets, feeling hungry, when he was struck by a deli‑ cious aroma. From out of the kitchen window of a huge mansion wafted the smells of a rich man’s breakfast. Looking through the win‑ dow, he watched carefully as the cook mixed the ingredients and prepared a pile of cheese blintzes. He had never seen or smelled any‑ thing so appetizing in his life. He ran home and told his wife, “We must have some cheese blintzes for breakfast. They are delicious. Can you make me some? All we need is French pancake mix, milk and eggs, some butter to fry them in, and cheese

for the filling.” “Certainly, my dear husband,” the kind wom‑ an replied. “I will whip up the best cheese blintzes anyone ever tasted.” But when she looked into her pantry for the in‑ gredients, she was greeted by empty shelves. An industrious and resourceful woman, she wasn’t fazed. “We will have to be a bit cre‑ ative,” she thought to herself. “I haven’t got any French pancake mix, but a little potato flour should be just as good. We are a little low on milk. I’ll just use water. Eggs . . . I don’t have any eggs, but I can throw in a few pota‑ toes. We certainly can’t afford butter for frying, but I have some old oil that I used last week; I am sure it can be used again. And cheese costs a fortune these days. We will have to settle for some mashed potatoes instead of cheese—that will be close enough.” In no time the delicious breakfast was ready, a pile of homemade cheese blintzes. The good wife brought them before her excited and grateful husband, who eagerly bit into the first cheese blintz he had ever tasted in his life. After chewing for a while on the first

blintz, his face turned from eager anticipation to bitter disappointment. “I have to be honest,” he said, “I don’t really get what those rich people see in cheese blin‑ tzes. They really are nothing special . . .” The Judaism you have tasted is about as authentic as those cheese blintzes. You may think you have been exposed to the Jewish way of life. After all, you sat through a year of bat mitzvah classes, crept into the back row of a synagogue on Yom Kippur every year, and even spent three months on a kibbutz in Israel when you were nineteen. This is all very nice. But these are not the in‑ gredients for a true Jewish experience. If you have never racked your brain over a page of Talmud; if your soul has never been touched by the deeper meanings of the To‑ rah; if you have never felt the embrace of a warm and spiritually committed community; if you have never experienced the peace and holiness of keeping a Shabbat fully and correctly—then you have never had a taste of real Judaism. Enough of the cheap imitations. Go eat a gen‑ uine cheese blintz.

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2011/09/22 02:52:40 PM

Experience of a lifetime The land of milk and honey

Jonathan Werner

n the evening of the 7th of July my family and I departed for Israel where I was to spend the next 16 days having an experience of a life time in the land of milk and honey. My family from various parts of the globe joined us on the adventure where the youngest was 20 months and the oldest was 77 years. What made it even more special was having Rabbi Dovid and Feige Hazdan join us on this special tour of the holy land. After seeing one of my earlier grandparents Rabbi Abba Werner picture on the wall at the Independence Hall I felt spiritually connected to my heritage. After seeing some wonderful sites in Tel Aviv and more so seeing the Palmach Museum we proceeded northward where we saw the wonderful sites of Akko and Caesarea. We spent a few nights on Kibbutz Lavi on the Lower Galilee where we explored Safed and some seriously old synagogues. The wonderful Judaic art and its beautiful surroundings make Safed a definite for any return visit. The famous Rabbi who wrote the Lecha Dodee that we sing on Friday nights is buried in Safed. We had a great time at the Golan Heights learning about the 6 day war and the Yom Kippur war. It was explained in detail about the famous tank battle that took place and the heroism of some of those incredible soldiers. But the best was rafting down the Hatzbani river with my cousins. On Thursday the 14th we departed for Jerusalem with much excitement on the bus. We arrived at Mt Scopus where we had the perfect view of the old and new city. The feeling was electric and after saying the “Borei Pri Hage-

fen” followed by “Shehecheyanu” we broke out into hora dancing with hugs and backslapping. What a moment to remember. My Dad arranged Gil Hoffman a political analyst from the Jerusalem Post to give us an update as to the current political situation in Israel. His talk was most informative and very refreshing. Thanks Gil. Shabbos night blew us all away. We went to the Kotel for Shabbos where it was estimated that there were 15 to 20 thousand people present. What an atmosphere. I heard Lecha Dodee sang maybe 30 different times, Shabbos dinner was at the Leonardo Plaza hotel where Rabbi Hazdan took charge and left us with an evening that no one will ever forget. Rov you are the best. Sunday was a tough day as we went to the Yad Vashem where a senior docent Eliezer Ayalon a camp survivor was our guide for the tour. He survived 5 concentration camps and he was able to tell us his story. By the end of the tour we were all emotionally drained and shocked to see what these fellow Jews had to endure. Monday the 18th of July was my Hebrew birth date a day I shall never forget. The day began at the Kotel where I did my Barmitzvah in a special dedicated area where all my family could participate in the service. I was very blessed to have Rabbi Hazdan at my side when I read my portion from the Torah. My reading at the Western Wall was taken from the portion of Matot. It contained the instruction that our “word” must be sacred. We must deliver on our verbal commitments. Only the human being has a unique gift of speech and we need to measure each word we utter with

caution and responsibility. It is vital to retain out integrity by following through on all the commitments that we make in life, whether it is a commitment to Hashem or whether it is a commitment to another human being. This is a quality that I have seen so clearly in my parents and grandparents whose integrity has earned our family a Shem Tov...a good name. One of the highlights was our visit to an army base where we celebrated my Barmitzvah with the Israeli Defence Force. What an experience! We had lunch with the soldiers and for two hours we danced with the men and women who defend the State of Israel. I was carried on their shoulders, hoisted up and down in a chair and thrown in the air from one soldier to another. What a special day, what a thrill. The tour moved on where we spent time at Masada and the Dead Sea. The night ended with a “Hafla” dinner at a Bedouin encampment where we were able chill out and enjoy the evening in the desert. The touring part came to an end where we had a tree planting ceremony at the Keren Kayement Forests to show our connection to the State of Israel. On our way back to Tel Aviv to spend a few days on the beach we stopped off at Rehovot to visit the Ayalon Museum, the first Israeli ammunition factory hidden under the laundry of a Kibbutz and operated secretly during the British Mandate. Mom and Dad how can I ever thank you for this most amazing opportunity and experience. As some one said on the tour it was an “Out of Body Experience”

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2011/09/22 02:52:45 PM

With best wishes for a happy and healthy new year. Jarred and Jackie Grusin and family. 33

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2011/09/22 02:53:09 PM

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2011/09/22 02:54:54 PM

Wishing all congregants a Shana Tova and well 35 over the Fast. Hazdan & Simpson Families cs5084-Great Park Synagogue Magazine.indd 35

2011/09/22 02:55:50 PM

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2011/09/22 02:55:57 PM

Hatzolah CPR Drive

Have you signed up yet?

ou don’t have to be a Hatzolah responder to save a life.

Hatzolah will be running a CPR campaign over the next few months in order to educate as many community members as possible about how to perform CPR, with the expertise and confidence of professional training. If someone is unconscious or not breathing, their chances of survival are enormously increased if a bystander at the scene is able to initiate CPR, while emergency services are on their way. These precious few moments can be the difference between life and death. The American Heart Association describes a process known as the Chain of Survival, the essential steps in the method of saving a person’s life: 1. Early Access – recognition of the symptoms 2. Early CPR – chest compressions and as-

sisted breathing 3. Early Defibrillation – ambulance crew 4. Early Advanced Care – advanced life support Hatzolah responders have often arrived on the scene of a medical emergency in which bystanders are simply unable or too frightened to initiate CPR. With Hatzolah’s CPR Drive, we’re striving to change that. Do you see that the first two steps to saving a life in the Chain of Survival can be performed by a bystander?

covery for Vitality points. The cost is R150.00 per person For booking and info email: cpr@hatzolah. co.za Sign up for a CPR course with Hatzolah and gain the opportunity and ability to save a life.

Undertaking to do a comprehensive course on CPR means you could be that bystander. Hatzolah runs 4 to 5 classes a week, either during week nights or on Sundays, so that the scheduling does not conflict with working hours. Classes are limited to 9 students per class and will run for 4 to 4.5 hours, with coffee and tea breaks. Plus, students will be issued with an attendance card which can be forwarded to Dis-

Wishing everyone a Shana Tova and well over the fast. Neil, Lara, Zachary and Lexi Davies 37

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2011/09/22 02:56:09 PM

Brief overview

Mantis Risk Solutions trading as Mantis Security

Mark Kramer

of his leadership qualities, he was promoted to a platoon commander in South Africa and thereafter placed in command of a specialized unit in South West Africa.

The present economic climate in which the criminal element is becoming increasingly sophisticated and brazen calls for new and innovative measures to combat this criminal activity. Mantis is an industry leader in introducing these measures as is evident from the number of our clients who have benefited from its specialised advice and measures implemented in combating this criminal activity.

Markâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hobbies are travelling, scuba diving and, prior to his motorcycle accident, parachuting.

antis security, established in 1992, is a specialized contract guarding security company, which, in addition to offering security guarding services, also specializes in planning, design, supervision and implementation of integrated security systems and rendering expert advice to its clients in all of the above.

After completion of his defence force duties, Mark travelled to Israel during 1984 for six months a substantial portion of which was spent on a kibbutz ulpan where he gained an insight of the Israeli way of life.

Events leading up to the formation of Mantis Security In 1986 Mark started a company from inception, R and M Security which he built up from one guard to a sizeable company which he subsequently sold in 1991 due to an an unfortunate motorcycle accident which prevented him from effectively running the company.

Since its inception, Mantis Security has built its business on an ever strengthening solid and stable foundation, on which the interests of its clients and its security officers have always been paramount. Every guard that Mantis employs helps feed a whole family.

He thereafter took a sabbatical for a year during which he travelled to the USA and Israel where the enhanced his knowledge of the security industry through attending trade shows, lectures and seminars on security related issues. In 1993 Mark returned to the security industry with the formation of Mantis Security which he again started from inception and which is today a market leader in the specialized contract guarding industry.

Mark Kramer, the founder and present CEO of Mantis, created a philosophy of dedication and service excellence to clients which is still the cornerstone of Mantis Security being among the leaders in the contract guarding industry. Mantis renders services in a multitude of specialised and general fields which include, but are not limited to, public organizations, embassies, banks, hotels, industrial and commercial enterprises, special events, the mining and aviation industries, VIP guarding and many other fields, as well as conducting risk factor surveys, and other advice related services.

Rosh Hashana Rosh Hashana is the beginning of a new year and, although the world is experiencing turmoil in one form or another, the message which Mark wishes to convey based on his own life experiences is to persevere even in the face of adversity as it is this perseverance which can be the key to breaking out of the black cloud which sometimes which sometimes envelops us.

Mark Boyd Kramer Mark, who was born and grew up on a farm in the Ogies district, came to Johannesburg where he attended King David high school and matriculated in 1981.

Rosh Hashana should also be seen as a period of goodwill and of helping those who may be less fortunate than ourselves which is the principle that Mark actively and regularly implements in keeping with his own perception of social responsibility.

After completing his matric, Mark was called to do his service in the South African Defence Force during 1982 and 1983 where, as a result

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2011/09/22 02:56:19 PM

tâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rosh Hashana time again and all of us at the Great Park school would like to wish you all a Shana Tova and well over the fast.

Our Montessori Nursery school is in its 10th year and as each year begins we are blessed with Special little individuals. This year for the very first time we have only boys so we could say for this year we have been an only boys school, Now we are looking for some girls too. We are now taking enrollment for next year. Our school is a nurturing environment where the children enjoy their morning at school playing, learning, painting, enjoying play ball, learning about all the Chaggim having fun and being loved which they all need in order to grow and develop. SHANA TOVA Please contact Michelle on 083 3771597 or email: michgronemann@gmail.com

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2011/09/22 02:56:25 PM

The Hole in the Boat

man was called to the beach to paint a boat. He brought his paint and brushes and began to paint the boat a bright, new red, as he was hired to do. As he painted the boat, he noticed that the paint was seeping through the bottom of the boat. He realized that there was a leak, and he decided to mend it. When the painting was done, he collected his money for the job and went away. The following day the owner of the boat came to the painter and presented him with a large check. The painter was surprised. “You have already paid me for painting the boat,” he said.

charge you for it. Surely you are not paying me this huge amount for so small a thing?” “My dear friend, you do not understand. Let me tell you what happened.” “When I asked you to paint the boat I had forgotten to mention to you about the leak. When the boat was nice and dry, my children took the boat and went fishing. When I found that they had gone out in the boat, I was frantic for I remembered that the boat had a leak! Imagine my relief and happiness when I saw them coming back safe and sound. I examined the boat and saw that you had repaired the leak. Now you see what you have done? You have saved the lives of my children! I haven’t enough money to repay you for your ‘little’ good deed...” TO DISCUSS: 1. Why didn’t the painter want to charge for mending the leak? Why did the owner insist on paying him? 2. Every single mitzvah that we do makes a difference! Discuss thoughts, speech and/or actions that may seem insignificant, but which can really make an impact. 3. Think of a creative title for this story that would best encompass its message.

“But this is not for the paint job. It is for mending the leak in the boat.” “That was so small a thing that I even did not want to

The Fireman

any years ago, before there were any fire engines or fire brigades, or electric fire alarms, and most houses were built of wood, a fire was a terrible thing. A whole town, or a good part of it, could go up in flames and smoke. And so, when fire broke out, everyone left his business or work, and rushed to help put out the fire. There used to be a watchtower that was taller than the other buildings, where a watchman kept a lookout all the time. As soon as he saw smoke or fire, he would sound the alarm. The townspeople would then form a human chain between the fire and the nearest well, and pass on to each other pails of water with which to put out the fire.

The boy began to blow the bugle with all his might, interrupting it only to catch his breath, and to say, “Wait, this will put out the fire in no time!” But the fire did not seem to care much for the music, and merely hopped from one roof to another, until the entire village was in flames.

Once it happened that a boy from a small village came to town for the first time. He stopped at a hotel outside of the town. Suddenly he heard the sound of a. He asked the owner of the hotel what it meant. “Whenever we have a fire,” the man explained to the boy, “we sound the bugle, and the fire is quickly put out.”

We are reminded of this story when we think of the shofar that is sounded many times on Rosh Hashanah. Some people think like that boy, that the sound of the shofar itself will do everything for them. They think that they may continue to “sleep,” or go about their business, there being no need to change their way of life and daily conduct.

The villagers now began to shout at the boy. “You fool,” they cried. “Did you think that the mere blowing of the trumpet will put the fire out? It is only the call of an alarm, to wake up the people, if they are asleep, or to break them away from their business and work, and send them to the well to draw water and put out the fire!”

“How wonderful!” thought the boy. “What a surprise and sensation I will bring to my village when I tell them about this.” The boy went and bought himself a bugle. When he returned to his village, he was full of excitement. He called all the villagers together. “Listen, good people,” he exclaimed. “No need to be afraid of fire any more. Just watch me, and see how quickly I will put out a fire!” Saying this, he ran to the nearest hut and set fire to its straw roof. The fire began to spread very quickly.

They think that it is good enough to just hear the shofar in order to have a good, sweet year. But, like the bugle in the story, the shofar is only like the sound of an “alarm.” It has a message: “Wake up and think about your ways! Try to improve your actions and do more mitzvoth! Put out the ‘fire’ of the nasty thoughts and actions that we sometimes do. Remember that Torah (which is compared to water) can help us be better people. Hurry, before it is too late!” TO DISCUSS: 1. Why couldn’t the boy put out the fire when he blew the bugle? 2. What was the purpose of the bugle in the story? What is the purpose of the shofar on Rosh Hashana? 3. The shofar is a call to action. What are examples of not-so-good deeds that you can stop doing, and good deeds that you can start doing?

”Don’t be alarmed!” cried the boy. “Now watch me.”

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2011/09/22 02:56:32 PM

The Etrog

nce the Baal Shem Tov sat with his disciples for the festive meal of Rosh Chodesh, and his face was serious. The disciples knew from previous occasions things that would put their Rebbe in a more joyous mood, and they tried, but with no success. Then, a certain village-dwelling Jew entered, named Reb Dovid. Immediately upon his entry the Baal Shem Tov was full of joy - he treated him warmly, gave him a place to sit, and also gave him a piece of his “hamotzi” (bread). This matter caused the disciples to have questioning thoughts— nobody had been able to rouse joy, and only a villager was able to do so?!

The Baal Shem Tov sensed their questions, and sent Reb Dovid off to do something, and when he left he said to them: This Reb Dovid works extremely hard for every penny he earns. Even though he doesn’t have a lot of money, during the year he saves a penny at a time to buy an etrog for Sukkot. When he has enough money, he travels to the city and buys a very beautiful etrog, and he has great joy from it. This year, his wife was in a bitter mood and she got very angry. In her bitterness she broke the pitom (tip) of the etrog (rendering it possul, unfit for use). Now, besides the money that he spent on the etrog, there were many obstacles to bringing it, water to cross, bad roads, so that it all added up to much hard effort. Yet, when he saw what his wife had done he was not angry, but said: “It appears that I am not worthy of such an etrog. I am a simple Jew who tried my best, but I guess that Hashem decided that I don’t deserve such a fine and beautiful etrog.” “From the time of the Akeidah (the ‘Binding of Isaac’),” concluded the Baal Shem Tov, “there was not such a test of character, and therefore I treated him so warmly.” TO DISCUSS: 1. Why couldn’t Dovid use the etrog that he worked so hard to get? 2. Describe the kind of personality that Dovid had. What can we learn from him? 3. Discuss times when we may feel angry. What are practical strategies that can help us stick up for ourselves, yet still act with dignity and humility.

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2011/09/22 02:56:51 PM

With best wishes to all the congregation for a happy and healthy New Year and a Meaningfull Fast. The Matuson Family

Wishing all the members of our community a Shana Tova

Wishing one and all a very peacefull fulfilling and healthy sweet New Year and well over the Fast.

A year of Joy, Happiness and Peace.

Felicity & Hymie Berger . Dorian & Lara, Miron & Malissa and families

Pam & Sam Abrahams 44

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Ralene Tradonsky

completed my accounting articles and joined a small IT company of a few dozen people. It was a fortunate decision. 18 years later, the company had grown to be a company listed on the London stock exchange and employing in excess of 4500 people. I had had a wonderful time in commerce and had always loved my job. One day out of the blue I received a call from a friend who said ‘I have the perfect job for you; we need someone to build a Foundation to sustain King David Schools and Jewish Education because without an excellent Jewish education we are doomed’. My reply was (a) I’m very happy where I am (b) I’m not interested, and (c) I’m not going anywhere’. Just a few weeks later, the Jewish Community lost one of its icons- a philanthropist like no other, and a man dedicated and totally committed to Jewish Education. Mendel Kaplan passed away tragically. I had the privilege of meeting Mendel and anyone coming into contact with him, could not help but be inspired. His passion for Jewish Education was infectious. I had heard how he was personally responsible for the excavations at the City of Davidand under the Kotel, because he wanted to show a Torah connection to the Holy Land. He believed that a Jewish Education was the lifeblood of Jews , that education was all powerful and that without ‘proof’ of the Torah link to Israel, people will always ask why you could not have chosen another land for the Jews- why it had to be there.

dation. I had been involved with fundraising for most of my adult life. I learned very early on that to fund-raise you need 3 things: passion, chutzpah, and a very thick skin. I had been blessed with all three and I had always used my gifts to elicit funds for causes I was passionate about. I had once been told by a very successful fund raiser that the only reason people do not give to your cause is ‘because they were not asked’. I have never been afraid to ask. I myself had been a ‘subsidy kid’ at King David and knew firsthand what it was to benefit from a King David experience. Today there are over 500 pupils that require financial assistance to attend KD schools, and I knew I was in a position to ask for help. This past year in my capacity of Director of KDSF, I had the privilege of travelling to the US, Toronto and London with Mr Elliot Wolf, a stalwart of Jewish education in SA. We had decided to go overseas to try and fund raise for our very ambitious Endowment campaign because so many of our alumni now live outside of SA. We had a fabulous experience meeting many ex King Davidians who have made a real positive contribution to the com-

munities in which they now live. One of the things we realised was just how privileged we were to grow up as Jews in SA, a community with mostly Lithuanian roots who had stuck together, possibly as a result of growing up in apartheid SA, who were proudly Jewish, unashamedly pro Zionist, and very community- orientated. We came to understand just how privileged we are to still have those traits in our community today. We lost count of the number of times we heard ‘If only we had a King David here’ and ‘what we would not give for a KD experience’... so as we go into Rosh Hashana we need to ask ourselves the question ‘What am I going to do differently this year? Can i take just one of the many good intentions I have and translate it into action?’ If the answer is ‘Yes’ then you will have succeeded in moving an idea into a positive action. Remember that the grass is not always greener on the other side. Look at what you have, rather than what you don’t , and be grateful for all the wonderful blessings we have, right here. Wherever you are in the world you can make a difference to your community by taking action and by being proactive in any positive way you can.

I attended the memorial service in Mendel’s honour at the Yeshiva College Shul. Rabbi Tanzer took the podium and said “If you ever met Mendel you could not help but be inspired (I had experienced this first hand) but inspiration is not enough, you have to take that inspiration and move it to action”. It was that last sentence that really made a great impression on me. I was passionate about Jewish education, and felt that I wanted, I needed to take action and do something for a cause I was passionate about, and no longer be a passive bystander. A few weeks later I had resigned from miserable job (much to the horror of many members of my family )and taken on the position as Director of the King David Schools’ Foun-

Wishing everyone a Shana Tova and well over the fast. Howard Tradonsky and family 45

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ORT Education for Life:

Empowered South Africans and proactive communities

Robert Singer - Director General and CEO of World ORT

rt’s activity does not base itself upon charity but upon self-help… I want to assure you of my greatest admiration for the cause in which you are so nobly engaged.” Albert Einstein, theoretical physicist and Nobel Physics Prize Laureate ORT SA is part of World ORT, the largest Jewish non-government global education and vocational network. Founded in 1880, World ORT annually provides cutting edge training in more than sixty countries, and over 5 continents. ORT SA believes in Educating for Life and that education is about more than basic schooling. It’s about empowering individuals to support and sustain thriving communities. Our focus is on giving skills that will help create jobs and change attitudes amongst the communities, as well as supporting the institutions and people that provide education. Education helps eradicate poverty. It builds satisfying, meaningful lives. ORT SA’s approach is holistic and multi-faceted, addressing educational needs as well as assisting small business’s become profitable and productive. ORT SA Educating for Life: Empowered South Africans and Proactive Communities ORT SA’s efforts are focused not only on the Jewish Community but the wider community of the traditionally under privileged through Educator Empowerment and Skills development . ORT Services for Teachers Educator Empowerment

ORT SA is instrumental in empowering educators to cope in the areas of Mathematics, Science and Technology, thereby ensuring effective learning and teaching. Educator Empowerment is designed in response to this nationwide need. Committed to change in the education system in South Africa, the focus is on educators and educational managers. The approach involves workshops, materials and class-room based support, empowering educators to grasp the relevant concepts and skills and challenging them to become life-long learners. Another focus of this department is to work with international organizations in the education sector to bring cutting edge educational mobile technologies to South African classrooms. Projects currently undertaken are: ORT Math in 9 Soweto schools Information Communication Technology Science & Technology Whole School Development Peer coaching and mentoring Robotics ORT Services for Learners Skills Development ORT Skills development programs are integral to all aspects of ORT SA’s work. They have successfully provided opportunities to empower people with work-readiness skills, attitude training and financial know-how. Projects undertaken by skills development include the Geared for Life program where students embark on a 3 year learning program from Grade10. The program includes theoretical learning as well as opportunities to work in corporate environments during their holidays. Community Development projects are undertaken in areas of Alexandra where food gardens are developed not only to sustain the local community, but also to teach agricultural and water manage-

ment skills. Jewish Community As a division of ORT SA, ORT JET operates according to ORT’s philosophy of Educating for Life and is working towards educating entrepreneurs, business people and job seekers who will then be secure in their ability to provide for themselves and their families. ORT JET aims to assist Jewish businesses and individuals, using business knowledge, resources and skills that already exist in the community. Through their Mentoring and Empowering workshops, and annual Business Plan competition, ORT JET provides the necessary support to enable businesses and individuals to succeed. Director-General of World Ort is visiting South Africa, Robert Singer, director-general of World ORT will be visiting South Africa in November. “Everywhere I look I see ORT SA emerging stronger from every challenge. Their determination and skill not only draws my admiration and gratitude but also fortifies my faith in the future of our organization.” Before joining World ORT, Mr. Singer served as Chief Education Officer of the Southern Command for the IDF and spent twelve years with the Office of the Prime Minister in a number of senior posts. He has been the leading professional at ORT for the last ten years, spearheading the use of the latest technological and educational initiatives and has overseen a significant expansion of the organization’s outreach through new operational and fundraising activities as well as the creation of educational institutions in many countries. ORT SA looks forward to the visit of this dynamic leader. Article by: Jodi Dayan

Wishing everyone a Shana Tova and well over the fast. Andrew and Ann Levy & Family 46

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2011/09/22 02:57:12 PM

Howard Sackstein

ur Kabbalists have described time in four dimensions, the past, the present, the future and eternity. To them, G-d exists in all of these dimensions at the same moment. In reality for both philosophers and scientists, until the moment of creation, the concept of time may not have existed. For humans time is measured in cycles. In order to give meanings to our lives we attach significance to astrophysical events, the changing of the day to night, the shifting of the seasons, the phases of the moon and the rotation of the earth around the sun. To add extra dimensions to time we assign recurring practices, traditions and festivals, each celebrated annually and each allowing us to measure success or failure by what has transpired from one moment to the equivalent moment in the previous year. And so it happens that on every Rosh HaShana I sit beneath the lofty blue dome and dangling brass chandelier of The Great Park Shul and contemplate back on my life from this year to last. Has there been success or failure, have I fulfilled my aspirations, have I disappointed others, have I fulfilled my dreams and met my potential. Is our community better off or worse than the year before. And so we measure our success or failure in tranches of one calendar year at a time. Only one year because that’s the period of time we understand in our own lives and that provides us a measurable contained period to look back and judges ourselves before G-d has the opportunity to have

his say in judgement. This year I was privileged to chair the annual Absa Jewish Achiever Awards, awards that look back at the lives of people not over one year but sometime over a lifetime and give honour and credit to people who have contributed so much to South Africa and the Jewish community in so many ways. This year we considered 144 nominees for eight awards. Each year I am amazed at the incredible depth of talent within our community in so many diverse areas. We recognize contributions in business, entrepreneurship, in arts in humanitarian work and community service. I am delighted to see that so many Great Park congregants featured so prominently as both nominees and winners in so many of the categories. The winners of this year’s Helen Suzman Lifetime Achievement Award were Jules and Selma Browde. The Browdes have been married for 63 years and are one of only three couples to have received honourary doctorates from Wits University. Jules, a former head of Habonim for 25 years represented Nelson Mandela and Oliver Tambo as legal counsel and fought some of the most important human rights cases in South Africa’s history. Selma Browde, a radio oncologist, facilitated the introduction between Israeli Ambassador Alon Liel and Nelson Mandela . In 1971 Selma became a member of the Johannesburg City Council. She organized the introduction of high mast lighting into Soweto, destroyed the quota on the number of black children allowed to pass standard 6, founded Operation Hunger and together with Jules did much to stop evictions under the Group Areas Act.

tion to the Smile Foundation and Afrika Tikkun while musical superstar Danny K together with rapping legend Kabelo took honours for the Shout Campaign against crime. Roland Sassoon received the Jewish Report Special Award in recognition of both his business success and the astounding charitable contribution made by the entire Sassoon family to Jewish life in South Africa. A video on the night descrined the family’s life in Bagdad and their flight to India and later England at the outbreak of the First World War. Business Awards were received by Steven Herring of Herriot Properties, Renney & Wayne Plit of Afhco and Herschel Meyers of Discovery Life. Rabbi Moshe Silberhaft took the Community Service Award for his work with rural Jewish Communities and his treks to far flung Jewish communities in deepest darkest Africa. One of the world’s most successful artists, William Kentridge received the Arts Award for his projects in Drawing, Opera, Puppetry, Animation and Visual Media. Kentridge spellbound the audience describing how proud his grandparents would be that he had received this recognition from the Jewish Community. And so when the winners sit back in Shul this Rosh HaShana, I am sure they look back at the year confident that sometimes it is more appropriate to judge our lives not in cycles of one but as a totality.

Our Shul featured prominently in the Cyril Harris Humanitarian Awards with Marc Lubner being recognized for his remarkable contribu-

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2011/09/22 02:57:34 PM

My unexpected trip to Sturgis August 2011

Peter Edel - President of Steelwings MC JHB It was Saturday and the following day I was to leave to Europe on a business trip to London and Paris, I was asked by the President of Rolling Thunder, a Johannesburg based Motor Cycle Club, if I would like to go with them to Sturgis, as one of their members had broken his ankle and could not make it. My mind ticked a few seconds knowing I would love to go, I answered “wow that would be great”, as I have been twice before. Let me fill you in. Sturgis is a dorp in South Dakota U.S.A. In the Black Hills. It’s between the size of Warmbaths and Grobblersdaal and boasts a population of 6,627 people. But in the first week of August the population swells to between 300,000 to 400,000 black T-shirted, leather cladded bikers on their chromed Iron Horses namely Harley Davidson Motor Cycles. I left on the Sunday evening for Europe and having a visa decided I should pack some biker gear and started changing flights, hiring bikes, sms Rolling Thunder I would meet them in Denver Colorado at 4pm on Saturday. We met on Sat-

urday and early Sunday morning the 5 of us collected our Harley’s. After stocking up on scotch as “Rolling Thunder” don’t enjoy Jack Daniels or Bourbon, we left Denver to the Black Hills of South Dakota about 500km away. In the lead a great couple from San Diego, Bill and Arlene. We avoided the highways and rode on secondary roads through farm lands, small towns and enjoying the freedom of wind going through your hair as in the states of Colorado, Wyoming, Nebraska and Dakota you don’t need to wear helmets. One passes huge monster trucks all chromed and in mint condition hauling huge trailers, hundreds of fellow Harley Davidson riders all heading for Sturgis. It reminded me of 1969, all going to Woodstock. We split the journey and slept the first night in a dorp called Lusk at a Best Western motel shared by other bikers from all over the U.S.A.. As it’s hot as hell we chilled by the pool with our Denver purchases and relaxed watching trucks and Harley Davidson’s drive by and enjoyed the different smelling air. The following morning we mounted our iron

horses and rode the rest of the way to the Black Hills. Now the Black Hills is steeped in American history. It’s the land of the Sioux, Apache, Cherokee and many other Indian tribes. It’s also the land of the cowboys, Doc Holliday, Billy the Kid, Wild Bill Hickok. The land of the great Indian Chiefs Crazy Horse and Jeronimo, also the land of the beaten U.S.A. General Custer, who was defeated by Crazy horse and his warriors. We rode through the town of Custer which is the beginning of the Black Hills, through prairies where Kevin Costners film “Dancing with Wolves” was filmed to the beginning of the black hills which is beautiful country side, forests, mountains, lakes, green and alive with the vibe of the Indian Warriors watching you from the tops of the hills. We passed Mount Rushmore where the presidents heads are carved into the rock and then passed Crazy Horse Memorial, where Crazy Horse, the legendary Indian Chiefs head is carved. Through Deadwod where Bill Hillcock was shot in Saloon 10 and finally arrived in Sturgis.

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Riding into Sturgis you are in a traffic jam, but not with cars but Harley Davidson’s, and all Harley Davidson’s. It took a while to reach Main Street which is about a kilometer long and just packed with Harley’s on either side and down the centre of the street. A sight one cannot imagine. Thousands of Harley’s. Biker’s, the good the bad and the ugly mingling down the streets, from all over the world. Even a few from South Africa. After a quick check of the scene we headed to our accommodation. There are no fancy. Our camp site was the smallest called The Broken Spoke. When I say small it’s gynormous to any “Adventure’ but small to the other Sturgis camp sites. We arrived at our wooden chalets and with horror saw they were actually wendy houses “zozo huts” four beds in each hut, a fridge, air conditioner and I must say great new beds and clean new bedding. Being about 3m x 6m, no cupboards, basins, mirrors, carpets, clothes hooks, or any other kugel comforts. We laid our packs down and headed for the pool. At sunset we headed back to town to check out the scene, and what a scene. Bars, custom bike stands, clothes stands, food stalls, thousands of bikes and a feeling of utter peace , no agru, or tenseness as it’s a pleasure being in the Wild West with a feeling of security. We visited a few bars had a few, checked the cowgirls and after midnight rode back to the camp site. At the camp site the party continued to the early hours of the morning. We were in Sturgis for 5 days and spent them riding through beautiful country side, places called Devils Tower, Spearfish Canyon, Deadwood, Leeds, Rapid City and more. The evenings are spent going to various camp sites such as the Buffalo Chip which is the home to around 30,000 bikers and motor homes, tents and wendy houses. A city in the veld. Buffalo chips is world renowned for hosting the best rock bands in the U.S.A. It has a huge stage, huge sound, huge lights and you drive your bikes onto the veld in front of the stage, sit on them or just stand and watch the show, with thousands of other bikers. Last year Bob Dylan played. We saw Stevie Nicks of Fleetwood Mac, Lukas Nelson, Willie’s son, John Foggetry of Creedence Clearwater, and Gregg Alman, Alice Cooper, Leon Russel, Edgar Winter and a host of other well known musos performed that week. After a 5 day party it was time to pack our T-shirts, underwear, jeans and head back to Denver, once again led by San Diego Bill. We must have rode about 2000km, no pot holes, no plastic bags, bottles, reckless driving as with 300,000, Harley’s we did not witness one accident, fight or drunken unruly behaviour, these bikers travel miles to ride, socialize, party, have a good time. The word is “What happens at the Rally stays at the Rally” I must thank the guys from “Rolling Thunder “ for such a wonderful, relaxed, cool time.

The Lubner family wish our beloved Rabbi and his family and the entire congregation a happy new year and a meaningful fast. 49

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2011/09/22 02:57:47 PM

Afrika Tikkun blazes a trail Marc Lubner

frika Tikkun (formerly MaAfrika Tikkun) is fulfilling the vision of its founders, established in 1994 by late Chief Rabbi Cyril Harris and businessman/philanthropist Bertie Lubner as a Jewish community-led initiative to make a tangible contribution to the rebuilding of a new, more just and fairer South Africa. The NGO continues to grow exponentially year after year. Initially Afrika Tikkun concentrated on dealing with community crises and the day-to-day needs of children and their families in deprived communities: food, clothing, shelter.... However, with the help of many wise and generous supporters, donors, sponsors and spirited supporters such as Rabbi Dovid Hazdan (who joined the Afrika Tikkun Board of Directors last year) and the Great Park Synagogue community, Afrika Tikkun hasevolvedinto a community developmental organisation that is going beyond the early vision of Bertie Lubner, now Afrika Tikkun’s Chairman. Afrika Tikkun currently services over 10 000 beneficiaries on a regular basis: 6800 receive support at our Centres of Excellence and a further 3300 receive support in their shacks. Our unique Holistic Development model is designed to empower at-risk children to grow up into responsible, productive, selfsufficient adults. At the same time, we empower the parents of these children in communities through training and in limited situations offering work opportunities. Each of our Centres offers a range of services, each of which is contributes to the overall development of the child: • Early Childhood Development • Child and Youth Development • Family Support Services • Nutrition, Food Security and Support services • Primary Health Care Our Centres are being transformed into Development Facility Centres of Excellence from where we can extend our knowledge, practice and expertise to other community based organisations, which means collectively we are all able to impact many more children in need. A visit to our Centres of Excellence is a truly heartening and uplifting experience. If you would like to visit or find out more, please contact Amanda Blankfield on 011 325 5914 or email amandab@afrikatikkun.org

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With best wishes for a happy and healthy new year. Johanna, Tobias, Devorah and Dovi Ginsberg 51

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2011/09/22 02:58:51 PM

Selwyn Segal visit Great Park

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2011/09/22 02:59:13 PM

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2011/09/22 02:59:38 PM

Dinner forBar/Bat Mitzvah Families Young Adults Purim

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2011/09/22 03:00:09 PM

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2011/09/22 03:00:33 PM

Dinner

Young Adults-Friday Night

Ladies Pre-rosh Hashanah Breakfast

Young Adults Chanukah Braai

We invite you to join us and to get to know those familiar faces that greet you at Shul. To be informed about these evenings, please contact Goldie at goldiesimpson@gmail.com or 072 832 2001

Great Park SAhouvot

Womens Forum

The Great Park Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Forum provides an opportunity for women in our community to get together in an informal setting to share personal thoughts and life experiences from which we can all learn and grow.

Our sincere gratitude to Aviva Krost for her professional expertise and for giving of her time so readily to bring class and beauty to our Great Park Dinners. 56

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2011/09/22 03:01:08 PM

GREAT PARK and CSO ENSURING OUR SHULS ARE SAFE

outh African Jewry – Freedom to practise our religion openly, with pride and conviction. Among the most fortunate Jewish communities in the world, South African Jews live in a dynamic, free society in which we are able to practise our religion openly, with pride and conviction. While we do enjoy these freedoms, the reality is that, as a community, we are faced with many threats on a daily basis. These include threats associated with terrorism, anti-Semitism, anti-Zionism and probably the most severe threat facing the South African Jewish community today, in the form of violent crime, urban terrorism. This threat has become more apparent with both criminals and terrorist openly targeting schools and Shuls. The lone wolf attack on the students at their camp site in Norway was a tragedy which could have been averted if they had, had trained security personnel on site. This type of attack could occur at any given time at any of our Installations who do not have security teams on duty during Shabbat, Yom Tavim etc. Great Park have shown an insightful and responsible response with regard to the nature of today’s threats by continuing with the support of the Josi Initiative (Johannesburg Organisation Security Initiative). Great Park have made great strides with regard to the upgrades of the Physical Security. The external wall has been reinforced and the palisade fencing has been replaced with a solid brick wall. Bollards were also purchased and installed at the cnr of 4th & Glenhove as an additional security barrier. An effective security solution for your installation is built on 3 pillars These three pillars are: • Physical Security – such as wall, electric fencing, bollards, locks etc. As well as technical security eg: Cameras, alarms, lighting, tag reading systems etc. • Procedures - eg. Controlling who is allowed to enter the premises, dealing with deliveries, visitors, procedures for locking up, evacuation procedures etc. • Trained Manpower – The use of TRAINED manpower is essential to carry out procedures, as well as in handling incidents that may take place eg. Screening and

questioning people wishing to enter the installation, reporting suspicious activity to the CSO The three components work hand in hand and together make up the Total Security Solution. The fourth important component is a Total Security Protection Plan: The Shul Protection Team The team is made up of volunteer Shul members from the Great Park Shul. It is essentially protection for the community, by the community. The team is capably lead by Team Leader, Nicci Hupert and her second in command Jarred Friedland. These teams work every Shabbat as well as on all Yom Tavims. They are a dedicated and committed group of people. The team is responsible for the following; • Checking the Installation ensuring it is safe prior to the arrival of the congregants • Screening of visitors • Ensuring that all Shul members gain safe access to the premises at the beginning of the service as well as ensuring that when they leave it is into a secure environment. • To identify unfamiliar guests and individuals entering the grounds • Making sure that the Shul is closed and locked up when leaving These are but a few of the duties required from the Shul Protection Team. These are all very special and devoted people and we need to extend our sincere thanks and appreciation to them for the special and critical efforts they provide and for all their concern with regard to the safety and security of the community. These members are commended for their outstanding contribution towards “Protecting Jewish life and the Jewish way of Life”. Please be sure to contact Nicci for further information on how to become involved in this and other CSO initiatives. On-going training is also provided for all people interested in keeping their children and family SAFE. Courses range form basic awareness courses all the way through to basic self defence courses. Its time to take responsibility for our own safety and security.

The 1 number every household needs to know – 086 18 000 18. The CSO operate a 24 hour incident command and control centre. In the case of any medical or security emergency, suspicious activity or potential threats, community members can call 086 18 000 18 where trained personnel will monitor the call, assess the nature of the emergency and dispatch the relevant emergency service to the scene. Calls are dispatched to all emergency services in and around South Africa including the SAPS, Hatzola, EZRA, Netcare 911, CAP, Fire Department etc. The service is entirely free and the reaction time is extremely quick. This is the one number every household needs to know. Be sure to educate both children and staff of this and use it as often as possible. Save it on your speed dials and keep the number by the telephone. If you think there is a threat, there probably is. 086 18 000 18. For further information about any of the CSO programmes including the member protection initiative or any security queries at the Shul, feel free to contact Shannon on 083 601 6217 or the CSO office on 0860-276276. CSO

safety awareness training course: This course aims to equip you with skills and knowledge to enable you to better secure yourself, your family and you community. Please would you contact Nicci for the time and date of this course.

RSVP: Nicci Hupert 082 565 9150 We encourage all members (friends welcome) to make every effort to attend.

FOR ALL SECURITY OR MEDICAL EMERGENCIES, SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY OR POTENTIAL THREATS CALL: 086 18 000 18 Wishing everyone a Shana Tova and well over the fast. Anonymous 57

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Trevor Friedman

o say that I’m concerned about the quality of family life in today’s double paced life is to understate the obvious - there is an ominous, tsunami-like rise of new age issues that is deeply affecting the quality of the husband - wife relationship and especially the children. I fear if we don’t awaken soon to the roar of the massive new wave approaching, we may soon become engulfed by its ferocity. Once upon a time, not that long ago, a man was a man and a woman was a woman and a child was a child - each one’s role and function was relatively clear and defined. Today, its all a “groot gemors” - confusion and a state of helpless apathy seems to be the order of the day. For example, in Stockholm, Sweden, there is a school for little children called Egalia that practises gender equality and refuses to identify and mention the gender of a child - children are called ‘people’ and all references to ‘boys’ or ‘girls’ is discouraged. Such a movement is gaining momentum in many countries around the world. In addition, the core roles of men and women are becoming increasingly interchangeable - at least there is an expectation that the New Age man does (or should) exist. How does this New Age man behave? Is he real or is he fictional? I saw, for example, an interesting research study that looked at the quantity of time that fathers spend with their

small children daily. When interviewed, most fathers claimed to spend on average between fifteen to twenty minutes daily with their children. Researchers were not convinced and through the use of microphones, cameras etc, they ascertained that the average dad spends on average... wait for it... thirty seven seconds a day with his small children! In a nutshell - many men and women are confused about what they should be doing and what they can reasonably expect from one another in dealing with children and teenagers.

gogue. Under the wise leadership of Rabbi Hazdan, I thank Dr Ronel Duchen and Mrs Goldie Simpson for their tireless work and including me in their highly effective Parent Enrichment Programme.

Should I: Be permissive or authoritarian? Command or discuss? “Klap” or not “klap”? Punish or praise? etc. Well, I attempted to add some insight and hopefully some sanity to the issues mentioned above in a series of four workshops presented in April and August to parents at the Great Park Syna-

Union of Jewish Women Interfaith Sukkah Party

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2011/09/22 03:01:25 PM

Parenting Workshop 2011

2011

Feedback • • • • •

Well received and much needed!I found it very informative and enjoyed conversation and audience participation. Please could this continue on a regular basis... Very informative and beneficial A lot of information in a short time. Lots of points to ponder. Thank you for a stimulating informative evening.

Wishing everyone a Shana Tova and well over the fast. David & Nicole Rajack 59

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2011/09/22 03:01:51 PM

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2011/09/22 03:03:01 PM

The Rohr Jewish Learning Institute

Exploring the Myths and Mysteries of Judaism

Course Rationale

In 1983, Professor E. D. Hirsch created an educational fire storm by introducing the idea of“ cultural literacy.” People within a culture share certain knowledge and common assumptions that allow them to be understood by one another, to share references, to understand the context of various conversations, jokes, or ideas. Judaism has a “cultural literacy” as well, and those who do not share these critical bits of knowledge will often find themselves making false assumptions about Jewish values or feeling confused and left out in Jewish social settings or when reading Jewish books. No single course can possibly plug all the holes in one’s knowledge base, and no single fact is critical to Jewish participation. But as more of the gaps in knowledge are filled in, it is easier for Jews to feel knowledgeable and comfortable with their roots and to decide which questions they still need to ask. In a lighthearted style that allows for both easy conversation and in-depth discussion, this course debunks common misconceptions and introduces little known but important facts about Judaism that seek to intrigue, surprise, and inform Jews about the richness and scope of their heritage. Overview The course is organized around six central themes, with Jewish facts presented in tandem with texts that cause students to wonder why they never heard this before and why they thought Jews believed something other than what is being presented. The facts presented in the course touch on central ideas of faith, Jewish custom, and the commandments, leading students to an appreciation of even the “small” details and their ability to shine new light on the big picture of Jewish thought and practice. Far from being a collection of trivia, these new facts will form a treasure trove of ideas that lend breadth and scope to students’ knowledge about Judaism and build on what they already know. Each lesson will encompass a major theme that underlies the particular tidbits of knowledge presented within the lesson, providing students with a broad glimpse into many different aspects of Jewish culture, tradition, and observance.

Lesson One: Jewish Myths, Misconceptions, and Urban Legends

You’ve heard about the holiness of the soul, but the body is holy too! Impressions of Judaism— like the misconception that the body is considered unholy—are often colored by the Christian stereotypes of religiosity rather than from within our own tradition. In lesson one, we’ll take a look at some common Jewish myths that are rooted in nonJewish attitudes and perspectives: Do Jews only believe in intimacy for procreation? Does preserving life always trump the performance of mitzvot? Do Jews believe in hell? Can a Jew

convert out of the faith? Students will find the answers surprising and fascinating, and they might find that truth can sometimes be stranger than fiction.

Lesson Two: So You Think You Know Something About the Bible

Many of us learned the stories of the Bible in an innocent state of childhood, almost by osmosis. As adults, we often continue to take them at face value, without delving deeper into their meanings or considering whether the details we remember are tainted by popular misconceptions. In fact, every nuance of every story in the Torah has deep significance and can teach us profound lessons of life. Of course, to arrive at these lessons, we need to first get our “facts straight.” In this lesson, we’ll focus on common assumptions and misunderstandings of classic biblical narratives: Was the fruit of the Tree of Knowledge an apple? Did all of the Jews leave Egypt? Do we really eat matzah because there was no time for the bread to rise when the Jews fled Egypt? Did the Jews actually cross over the Sea of Reeds? We’ll also explore some common misconceptions pertaining to Jewish law—such as whether Judaism promotes capital punishment and whether “an eye for an eye” is meant to be taken literally. Whether students are well versed in the Bible or have never even opened it, this lesson will shed a whole new light on studying Torah.

Lesson Three: Foods and Feasts

Most of us eat for the sake of pleasure— because food makes us feel good. Indeed, it seems that Jewish tradition revolves around food—and, in a way, it does. However, Judaism teaches that eating is not meant to be just a path to self gratification, but a sacred act—a way of serving God. In lesson three, we’ll explore intriguing Jewish facts pertaining to food: Why is pig considered the quintessential non-kosher food? What defines prohibited and permitted foods? What is the biblical source for determining whether a certain animal is kosher? Why do seemingly innocent foods require kosher certification? What’s so kosher about “kosher salt” anyway?

ish calendar, this lesson will provide examples of how the Hebrew name for something, far from being arbitrary, is deeply significant and can offer greater insight into the heart of key Jewish concepts and ideas.

Lesson Five: Womb to Tomb

Jewish practices and ideas regarding the life cycle are some of the most firmly ingrained into the collective Jewish consciousness. Jewish traditions associated with birth, marriage, and death have been powerfully upheld throughout the generations, even in the most trying of circumstances. Indeed, the life-cycle milestones mirror stages of spiritual development, and their observances are therefore infused with the utmost sanctity. Questions addressed in this lesson include: What is the significance of a birthday? Why is a stillborn circumcised? Why don’t women require circumcision? Must a husband see his prospective wife before marrying her? Can a woman be married against her will? The lesson will also discuss interesting baby-naming facts, the source of most wedding customs, and little-known facts about burial.

Lesson Six: Blessings, Omens, and Spirits

Curses,

What we see—that which can be quantified and qualified by observation—is only one level of reality. In fact, Jewish philosophy teaches that there is a reality beyond what we can perceive with our limited senses. However, these worlds are not mutually exclusive: the physical and spiritual worlds are interwoven and interconnected, and as human beings, we are uniquely positioned between the two, thus allowing us to influence them both. This lesson will explore often-misunderstood ideas regarding Jewish spiritual and mystical teachings, including the belief in miracles; the nature of Jewish belief in angels, spirits and the Satan; the uniqueness of blessings from the righteous; the power of the “evil eye”; the concept of mazal (energies associated with specific times); and how our thoughts and words can affect reality.

This lesson will provide students with a refreshing understanding of the Jewish relationship with food and why it’s such a powerful part of our lives.

Lesson Four: It’s All Hebrew to Me

Hebrew is not just another language. The Hebrew tongue is holy and its words are the building blocks of the creation of the world. Unlike in other languages, Hebrew letters and words are not randomly assigned to the objects, people, and ideas to which they refer. We can uncover profound significance and meaning simply by exploring Hebrew linguistics and word roots and relationships. By examining words associated with the Jew61

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JLI Feedback • “Always though provoking and never trite or obvious. The delivery was absolutely great – engaging, professional, balance of content and humor, combined for maximum accessibility. • “ Made me think much wider. Thanks.” • “Towards a meaningful life is just what I needed in my life. Timing was perfect. After every session I went back home and shared with my family and also the first person that called either on Monday night or Tuesday at the workplace. The attitude has changed for the positive. Thank you once again.” • “Keep it up. Your enthusiasm is displayed in your body language and rich vocabulary.” • “Very enjoyable and thought provoking.”

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2011/09/22 03:03:12 PM

With Compliments of Diva Fashions The Makers of Dijon Ladies Fashionware

With Compliments of Corner Cafe Tel: 011 440 3160 63

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e established the Girls teen shiur program 2 years ago in an attempt to try get more teenage girls to spend a shabbath, once every 6-8 weeks, in shul learning something about Yiddishkeith, interacting with their friends in an informal and fun environment. Topics were chosen, small gifts were made available, and under Goldie’s auspices approximately 10 girls, aged between 14 & 16 years, participated in the engaging and meaningful discussions. Glenn Silverman For more information please contact Goldie - goldiesimpson@gmail.com - Cell: 0728322001

Wishing the congregation a Shana Tova. Paul, Lisa, Jonathan Ariella and Talia Werner 64

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2011/09/22 03:04:04 PM

Community News 2010 - 2011 Whats been happening through the year

BIRTHS Robin & Danya Magid a son Selwyn & Raylene Blieden a son Jakov & Leah Charney a daughter Ari & Lexi Budin a daughter Eli & Lee Unterslak a son Dorian & Lara Berger a son Layve & Jina Rabinowitz a daughter Clive & Amanda Spitz a son Evan & Samantha Hochberg a daughter Darren & Nathlie Sims a son Oron & Candice Burstain a son Jared & Jackie Grusin a son Graydon & Robyn Epstein a daughter Jeremy & Penny Kinsbury a son Ron & Delaine Shalem a daughter Ryan & Pamela Krein a daughter Anthony & Efrat Wald a son Richard & Jodi Levine a son Adam & Marla Falk a son David & Jen Charney a son Steven & Lara Brasg a daughter Joan Charney - 4th great-grandchild OPSHERENIS Howard & Janet Zev’s son Eli Steven & Lara Brasg’s son Noah BATMITZVAHS Serena Clark Kaylee Crown Carly Friedman Rachel Hasson Kelly Heyman Tamryn Sulman Micaela Tucker Gina Cesman Rachel Dave Erin De Jongh Cara Drobis Ilana Eidelman Caylin Firer Kayla Hershberg Ariella Levin Hannah Midzuk Amber Sandler BARMITZVAHS Matan Traube Yacov Schleider Evan Saul Danziger Brad Dayan Norman Daniel Lotzoff Yair Bisnowaty Brett Joshua Phillips Aaron Cole Fainman Jarod Devin Class Noah Tradonsky Gabriel Rubinstein Asher Meyerowitz Jonathan Werner

Harry Jacobson Amit Weltman ENGAGEMENTS Lani Zinman and Dani Harmati Clive Berelowitz and Taly Szydio Davin Berelowitz and Nadine Zets Ashli Lieberthal and Gareth Sewitz Debbie Skudowitz and Myon Joffe Mark Yudakin and Sarah Aires Elienne Horwitz and Marc Blumberg Megan Frampton and Russell Zetzer Daniel Levy & Lauren Marcus David Kaplan & Gaby Milner Arthur Berelowitz and Michelle Levenson WEDDINGS Yael Geffen and Kevin Fine Shira Rabinowitz and Ilan Shapiro Michelle Savitz & David Freedman Anthony Seeff and Justine Brozin Romy Blair and Joel Rosen Tami Harris (nee Lieberthal) and Steven Rabbie Martin Charney and Judy Rosenberg Anthony Seeff and Justine Brozin Toni Kagan and Alon Skuy Michael Freeman and Lee-Ann Friedman Zalmie Medalie and Chaya Chein Candy Charney and Shlomi Shen Tov Iza Goldwasser and Peter Grek Gina Levin and Joel Smookler Darren Zwiers and Tali Levitt Bernard Goodwin & Michele Tager Shira Shalem and Nimrod Barlev Sarah Blumberg and Mark Newstead CONDOLENCES Goldberg, Milner & Slabe families on the loss of Allan Slabe Ruzow family on the loss of Zelda Palombo Jackie Lyons on the loss of her mother Rudaizky family on the loss of their brother Notelovitz family on the loss of Jack Notelovitz Sassoon family on the loss of Claire Alexander Clingman family on the loss of Ethel Clingman Minsky family on the loss of Jacob Minsky Neifeld family on the loss of Minnie Lain Fainman family on the loss of their father Blechman family on the loss of Bertha Faber Cohen family on the loss of Clive Cohen Levy family on the loss of Ivan Levy Berelowitz & Greenblatt families on the loss of their father Danziger and Lewenstein families on the loss of their mother Horwitz family on the loss of Alan Horwitz Eliakim, Skudowitz and Jersky families on the loss of Shirley Eliakim Freedman and Hellmann families on the loss of Zummy Freedman Tasmin, Leibowitz & Slomowitz families on the loss of Renée Asael

Amoils family on the loss of Cecil Amoils Katz & Rubinstein families on the loss of Jeff Katz First family on the loss of Rhona Mierowsky Waksman families on the loss of Wolf Waksman Martheze and Meyer families on the loss of George Martheze NEW MEMBERS Mr & Mrs Cedric Ginsberg Mr & Mrs Desmond Hyman & daughters Mr & Mrs Desmond Waldman Mr & Mrs Gary Woolf Mr & Mrs Geoff Wald Mr & Mrs Greg Weinstein Mr & Mrs Harold Crown Mr & Mrs Howard Tradonsky Mr & Mrs Lance Milner Mr & Mrs Lennie Meyerowitz Mr & Mrs Leslie Balkind Mr & Mrs Menachem Marcan Mr & Mrs Michael Judin Mr & Mrs Robert Savitz Mr & Mrs Stephen Firer Mr & Mrs Steven Fish Mr & Mrs Victor Fish Mr Myer Fish Mr & Mrs Terence Rendel & son Mr & Mrs Yonaton Rom Mr Mark Newstead Mr Michael Meyersfeld & son Mrs Denise Bloom Mrs Iona Tip Ms Lucille Smith Ms Peta-Lee Woolf Prof Leah Gilbert

Please inform the Shul Office of all important occasions! Data on this page was compiled by the office and reflects information available to us as of our going to print. Please inform us of all relevant community and family news to ensure that it appears in our publication. We will welcome additional new members and acknoledge family events in our forthcoming publication.

If you know of anybody who is not well, please contact the office at 011 728 8152 so that a visit can be arranged.

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HOW TO BUILD A SUKKAH YOUR SUKKAH BUILDING MANUAL

The what, where and how of Sukkah construction For forty years, as our ancestors traversed the Sinai Desert prior to their entry into the Holy Land, miraculous “clouds of glory” surrounded and hovered over them, shielding them from the dangers and discomforts of the desert. Ever since, we remember G‑d’s kindness and reaffirm our trust in His providence by “dwelling” in a sukkah for the duration of the Sukkot festival, from the 15th to the 22nd of the Hebrew month of Tishrei (in Israel, through the 21st only). A sukkah is essentially an outdoor hut that is covered with vegetation, known as sechach. But there are many guidelines and requirements that must be followed in its construction, and regarding the location where it is erected, in order for a sukkah to be deemed “kosher”- fit for use. There are excellent prefabricated sukkahs available, in a variety of sizes, from many Judaica vendors. If you choose this less adventurous (and less time-consuming) route, make sure that the sukkah comes with proper rabbinical certification that it meets the sukkah requirements. Where do I Build My Sukkah? Construct your sukkah outdoors, ideally in a spot that’s most accessible to your residence. Popular sukkah locations include: porches, backyards, courtyards, lawns, balconies and rooftops. Basically, any location under the open sky. An important requirement is that there should be nothing between your sukkah and the open sky. So make sure that there are no trees, canopies or roofs of any sort overhanging your sukkah.

lumber, or special sechach mats. Mats made of bamboo, straw or other vegetable matter can be used only if they were made for the purpose of serving as a roof covering. The sechach must be detached from its source of growth--thus a live trellis, or branches still attached to the tree, cannot be used. You may also need some plain, unfinished wood beams to construct a framework on which to lay the sechach. Lighting: If you’d like to set up a lighting system and your sukkah is built close to an outlet, purchase a light-bulb with a rain protection cover and electrical cord. Chairs and Tables: Remember, you will be taking all your meals in the sukkah for the duration of the festival. Plus, it is a special mitzvah to invite guests to share your sukkah. Decorations: Many communities decorate the sukkah with colorful posters depicting holiday themes and/or by hanging fresh fruits or other decorations from the sechach beams. (The Chabad custom is not to decorate the sukkah, as the sukkah -- the mitzvah -- itself is considered to be an object of the greatest beauty.) The Dimensions and other Requirements The Walls: A sukkah must have at least two full walls plus part of a third wall (the “part” needs to be a minimum of 8.1cm wide). It is preferable, however, that the sukkah have four complete walls.

What Materials do I Need? If you’re building your own sukkah, here are the basic materials you will need: The Walls: The walls of a sukkah can be made of any material, provided that they are sturdy enough that they do not move in a normal wind. You can use wood or fiberglass panels, waterproof fabrics attached to a metal frame, etc. You can also use pre-existing walls (i.e, the exterior walls of your home, patio or garage) as one or more of the your sukkah walls. An existing structure that is roofless or has a removable roof can also be made into a sukkah by covering it with proper sechach.

The walls must be at least 81.3cm high, and the entire structure may not be higher than 914.4cm. In length and breadth, a sukkah cannot be smaller than 56.9cm by 56.9cm. There is no size limit in how large -- in length and width -- a sukkah may be.

The Roof Covering: The sukkah needs to be covered with sechach--raw, unfinished vegetable matter. Common sukkah roof-coverings are: bamboo poles, evergreen branches, reeds, corn stalks, narrow strips (1x1 or 1x2) of unfinished

Anything that is directly supporting the sechach should not be made out of materials that are not fit to be used as sechach. Thus, if the sechach is resting directly on the sukkah walls and the walls are not made out of wood, strips of wood

should be placed between the sukkah walls and the sechach. In larger sukkahs where a framework of beams is needed to hold up the sechach, wood or bamboo poles should be used, not metal. Nor may the sechach be tied on with wire or fastened with any metal object. Some More Details: • A sukkah must be built anew every year for the purpose of the mitzvah. This requirement, however, applies only to the sechach (the roof covering of branches or bamboo), since it is the sechach that makes the sukkah a sukkah. Thus, one can leave the walls standing all year, and place the roof covering before the festival. If the sukkah and the sechach have been up all year, one can simply lift up and replace the sechach, which allows the sukkah to be considered as new. • One must first erect the walls and only then place the sechach covering. If the sechach is put up before there are walls in place, the sechach should belifted up and reapplied. • It is best that a sukkah have four solid walls (aside from the doorways and windows). However, under certain conditions, incomplete walls will qualify, as follows: • 1) If there is a gap between the bottom of the walls and the ground, the bottom of the walls must be less than 24.4cm from the ground. • 2) If the walls are 81.3cm high, the roof may be higher (up to the maximum height of 30 feet off the ground), as long as the walls are beneath the roof. • 3) There may be gaps of empty space in the walls, as long as these are less than 24.4cm wide. (Thus a fence made of upright or horizontal slats can be used, as long as the spaces between the slats are less than 24.4cm.) • 4) The sechach should be placed on the sukkah by a Jewish person - one who is obligated to sit in the sukkah.

The Sechach: There must be sufficient sechach to provide enough shade so that on a bright midday there is more shade than sun seen on the floor of the sukkah. The sechach has to be spread out evenly over the entire sukkah so that there should not be any gap larger than 24.4cm.

Visit Great-Park website at: www.greatpark.co.za Shana Tova and well over the fast to the community. Irwin & Travice Rabinowitz and family 66

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Ongoing Shuirim SHABBAT MORNING Parsha Perspective - In Depth studies with Rabbi Yosef Medalie 8:15 - 8:45 am in the Small Shul SHABBAT MORNING Weekly shuir after Kiddush with Rabbi Shmuel Simpson DAILY BETWEEN MINCHA AND MARIV The Mitzvot - Their meaning and application The Study of Rambamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Book of Mitzvot with Rabbi Shmuel Simpson SUNDAY MORNING Mishna shiur with Rabbi Hazdan 8:45 - 9:15 am in the Small Shul Current Tractate: Beitza MONDAY EVENING Jewish Learning Institute courses (Starting this November) TUESDAY EVENING Lecture series on Jewish Thought and Interest with Rabbi Hazdan 7:45 - 8:45 pm in the Small Shul WEDNESDAY EVENING The Siddur Inspired with Rabbi Shaun Wingrin 6:15 - 6:45 pm in the Small Shul

FRIDAY EVENING: Kabalat Shabbat 6:00 pm Children Service 6:15 pm SHABBAT DAY: Shacharit 8:45 am Mincha 11/4 hours before the end of Shabbat Maariv when Shabbat ends MORNING SERVICES Sunday and Public Holidays Monday & Thursday Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday

7:45 am 6:45 am 7:00 am

DAILY AFTERNOON/EVENING SERVICES 1 October - 31 March 6:00 pm 1 April - 15 April 5:45 16 April - 30 April 5:30 pm May 5:20 pm June 5:15 pm July 5:20 August 5:30 pm September 5:45 pm

THURSDAY EVENING Talmud Shiur with Rabbi Berel Rodal

A number of personal study-sessions have been initiated. Should you wish to pursue a Torah subject or text of your choice, or organize a small group session, please contact Rabbi Shmuel or Goldie Simpson.

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Tishrei Calendar 5772-2011/2 Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

25 September

26 September

27 September

28 September

Selicot/Shacharit 6:30 am

Selicot/Shacharit 6:15 am

Selicot/Shacharit 6:30 am

Visit the graves of parents/ grandparents and pray at the gravesite of the righteous.

Resolve a conflict

Make a New Year’s resolution

Mincha/Maariv 5:45

Selicot/Shacharit 6:00 am Hatarat Nedarim / Annulment of vows Eiruv Tavshilin Light candles 5:49 pm blessing (2 & 5) Mincha – 5:45 pm Maariv – 6:00 pm Apples dipped in honey. 1st Night Rosh Hashanah

26 Elul

27 Elul

28 Elul

29 Elul

2 October

3 October

4 October

5 October

Fast of Gedalia Fast begins 4:38 am Shacharit 7:30 am Days of Repentance Fast ends 6:26 pm

Thursday 29 September First Day Rosh Hashanah Shacharit – 7:30 am Minyan Leib Dovid-8:30 am Shofar 10:45am Mincha – 5:45 Maariv – 6:00 pm Light Candles from pre-existing flame6:38 pm Blessing (2 &5) Partake of a first fruit of the season 2nd night Rosh Hashanah

1 Tishrei

6 October

Shacharit 6:10 am

Shacharit 6:25 am

Shacharit 6:10 am

Days of Repentance Mincha/Maariv 5:45 pm

Days of Repentance Fast ends 6:26 pm

Friday 30 September

5 Tishrei

6 Tishrei

7 Tishrei

9 October

10 October

11 October

12 October

Shacharit 7:45 am Consider purchasing your own Lulav and Etrog set. Sukkah Building Mincha/ Maariv 5:45 pm

Shacharit 6:45 am Sukkah Building

Shacharit 7:00 am

Sukkah Building

Complete the Sukkah Eiruv Tavshilin

Mincha/ Maariv 5:45 pm

Light Candles 5:55 pm Blessing (2 & 5) Mincha 5:45 pm Maariv 6:00 pm First Night Sukkot

11 Tishrei

12 Tishrei

13 Tishrei

16 October

17 October

18 October

Shacharit 7:30 am

Shacharit 6:30 am

Lulav & Etrog Our home is our Sukkah

Mincha/Maariv 5:45 pm

Chol Hamoed

18 Tishrei

19 Tishrei

20 Tishrei

14 Tishrei

19 October Hoshana Raba

8 Tishrei

13 October

Shabbat Shuva

Shacharit – 7:30 am Minyan Leib Dovid 8:30 am Shofar 10:45am Mincha – 5:45 Maariv – 6:00 pm Light Candles before 5:50 pm Blessing (1)

Shacharit 8:45 am Parshat Ha’azinu

2 Tishrei

7 October Kaparot early in the morning Shacharit 6:45 am Mikva Days of Repentance Mincha 1:00 pm Fast begins and light candles before 5:53 pm Blessings (1 4 & 5) Kol Nidrei 6:00 pm

14 October

3 Tishrei

8 October Yom Kippur Shacharit 8:00 am Minyan Lieb Dovid 8:30 am Yizkor 12:00 pm Sermon 12:30pm Musaf 12:45 pm Mincha 3:30 pm Sermon 5:15 pm Neilah 5:30 pm Fast ends 6:42 pm Start preparing for Sukkot

10 Tishrei

15 October

Second Day Sukkot

Shabbat Chol Hamoed

Shacharit 8:45 am Lulav and Etrog Our home is our Sukkah Light candles from preexisting flame 6:45 pm Blessing (2 & 5) Mincha 5:45 pm Maariv 6:00 pm

Shacharit 8:45 am Lulav and Etrog Our home is our Sukkah Light candles from preexisting flame 5:56 pm Blessing (1) Mincha 5:45 pm Maariv 6:00 pm

Shacharit 8:45 am No Lulav and Etrog Our home is our Sukkah Mincha 5:30 pm Shabbat ends 6:46 pm

Second Night Sukkot

15 Tishrei

20 October

Mincha 5:45 pm Light Candles 5:59 pm Blessing (2&5) Maariv 6:00 pm Shmini Atzeret Eve

Simchat Torah Eve

21 Tishrei

9 Tishrei

Mincha – 5:20pm End of Shabbat 6:39 pm

First Day Sukkot

Shmini Atzeret Shacharit 8:45 am Yizkor 10:45 am Take leave of Sukkah Light candles from preexisting flame 6:46 pm Blessings (2&5) Mincha 5:30 Maariv 6:00 pm Hakafot Simchat Torah Kiddush

Shacharit 6:15 am Last Lulav and Etrog Our home is our Sukkah Eiruv Tavshilin

1 October

Second Day Rosh Hashanah

Yom Kippur Night

4 Tishrei

Saturday

22 Tishrei

16 Tishrei

21 October

17 Tishrei

22 October

Simchat Torah

Shabbat Bereishit

Shacharit 8:45 am Hakafot 9:45 am

Shacharit 8:45 am Mincha 5:35 pm End of Shabbat 6:50 pm

Light candles from preexisting flame before 6:00 pm Blessing (1) Mincha 5:45 pm Maariv 6:00 pm

23 Tishrei

24 Tishrei

Blessings for Candle Lighting 1. SHABBAT 2. YOM TOV 3. SHABBAT & YOM TOV 4. YOM KIPPUR 5. SHEHECHEYONU

Baruch-Ata Ado-Nai Elo-HeiNu Melech Ha-Olam Asher Kid-Isha-Nu Be-Mitz-Vo-Tav Vi-Tzi-Vanu Le-Had-Lik Ner Shel Shabbat. Baruch-Ata Ado-Nai Elo-HeiNu Melech Ha-Olam Asher Kid-Isha-Nu Be-Mitz-Vo-Tav Vi-Tzi-Vanu Le-Had-Lik Ner Shel Yom Tov. Baruch-Ata Ado-Nai Elo-HeiNu Melech Ha-Olam Asher Kid-Isha-Nu Be-Mitz-Vo-Tav Vi-Tzi-Vanu Le-Had-Lik Ner Shel Shabbat Ve Shel Yom Tov. Baruch-Ata Ado-Nai Elo-HeiNu Melech Ha-Olam Asher Kid-Isha-Nu Be-Mitz-Vo-Tav Vi-Tzi-Vanu Le-Had-Lik Ner Shel Yom Hakipurim. (NB: NOT Shel Yom Tov). Baruch-Ata Ado-Nai Elo-HeiNu Melech Ha-Olam She-Heh-Che Yah-Nu Vi-Kiye-Mo-Nu Ve-He-Ge-O-Nu La-Zman Ha-Zeh. 68

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