Scene Around

(When you read this column I will still be in Chicago visiting with children and grandchildren.)

Oh my aching back...

I read this in the World Jewish Congress (WJC) digest and pass it along to you:

One of the leading causes of back pain is poor posture...the slumping way we sit and walk" (My son always reminds me to straighten up before I leave the house. He feels it will make me look and feel younger.)

One Israeli product, Upright, is trying to help us stand taller and, as a result, feel better. It has developed a unique posture trainer, which invisibly attaches to your lower back under your shirt and corrects you when you are not standing or sitting upright. Every time you slouch, it gently vibrates, reminding you to correct your posture.

(I would probably think it was my cellphone.)

The gadget, which costs $130, comes with a mobile app that tracks your progress and offers customizable training programs for better posture. Input your weight, age, and the number of hours you sit during the day, and the app will build a plan for you. Once the device is attached, a gentle electrical pulse is transferred, and a light vibration is felt every time you slouch. The vibration's intensity and other features can be adjusted. In addition, a physical therapist can answer any questions in real time through a chat feature. According to Upright Technologies founders, ODED COHEN and ORI FRUHAUF, the training program can help whether you're wearing the device for five minutes a day or for hours. According to the company, hospitals are now using the device to help their patients, and 'raving customer reviews have been gushing in, claiming incredible back pain relief.'

While several clinical trials are ongoing in the U.S. and in Israel, Upright is pending FDA approval."

(Leave it to the Israelis. They are leading in science and technology for sure!)

Attention Seniors...

I read this important information in the current issue of the Jewish Pavilion Press for the month of June:

"Call EMILY NEWMAN, our Senior Resource specialist, when you experience issues pertaining to seniors.

She is an experienced social worker, a great listener and an expert on options available to seniors and their families. Emily will provide information, guidance, and referrals at no charge through the Orlando Senior Help Desk. You can phone her at 407-678-9363 or email her at http://www.orlandoseniorhelpdesk.org."

Really great jazz...

On Sunday, June 25th, from 12:30 until 2:30 p.m. our own talented ALAN ROCK once again emcees the musician's show at the Altamonte Chapel, 825 East SR 436, Altamonte Springs. The phone number is 407-339-5208. The requested donation is only $10.

On this date will be a very special performance by MARTY MORELL (one of the jazz professors) with Marty featured on the vibraphone. Joining Marty will be the award winning trio, "La Lucha" with MARK FEINMAN, Drums, JOHN O'LEARY, Piano, ALEJANDRO ARENAS, bass; and special guest, MICHIKO MORELL (Perc/vocal). Alan says to mark this down as a "MUST SEE AND HEAR."

JCC 39ers Dine Around Town...

On Thursday, June 29th at 1 p.m., the restaurant is PF Chang's, 436 N. Orlando Avenue, Winter Park. Phone FLO GOLDMAN to RSVP at 407-859-5982.

(Hope to see you there.)

One for the road...

Yitzhak and Melvyn live in a retirement home. One day, as they are sitting on a bench under a tree, Yitzhak turns to Melvyn and says, "Melvyn, I'm 85 years old and I'm full of aches and pains. You're about my age. How do you feel?" 

Melvyn replies, "I feel just like a new-born baby." 

"Really? Like a baby?" 

"Yes," replies Melvyn, "no hair, no teeth and I think I just wet myself."