Scene Around

"We are the world"...

"We are the children." (I'm using this wonderful song, written by Michael Jackson and LIONEL RICHIE, and applying it to the Jewish people because it seems to fit!)

The more I look up things about my favorites, the more I find out that they are (or were) Jewish!

For instance, who knew Larry King, super-famous radio and television personality, was a member of the clan? (I didn't.) His real name was Lawrence Zeiger. He was born in Brooklyn, N.Y. (like me) and his parents were from Minsk and Pinsk, part of the Russian Empire (like my mom's ancestry.)

Sadly Larry passed away recently. What a loss!

Also, most of my favorite comedians were Jewish. For instance, Mendel Berlinger (you knew him as Milton Berle), Jacob Cohen (you knew him as Rodney Dangerfield), Madeline Gail Wolfson (Madeline Kahn, of course). Too many to mention in one column.

(I may get to your favorites next column.)

I read this in FLAME...

"Whether you're sad or happy about the U.S. presidential elections, let me share a sobering thought with you: As far as Israel is concerned, it doesn't really matter."

I think we all know from bitter experience that the Israel's enemies will not go away. The jihadists and the BDSers will not give up. Anti-Semites will continue to attack. Iran, Hamas and Hezbollah will keep shooting missiles. In short, haters hate! (Irv and I were in Israel when the Yom Kippur War broke out. We phoned home to tell the grandparents to raise our boys if we don't make it home alive).

Some lighter news...

I also read this recently: "World Jewish Congress President Ambassador RONALD S. LAUDER, welcomed the recent announcement that the State of Israel and the Republic of Sudan have agreed to normalize ties between the two countries!

Lauder said, "Sudan has undergone a profound transformation over the past few years, from a haven for terrorists to a constructive member of the family of nations. This transformation is the result of the determination and fortitude of Sudanese citizens, who are now laying the groundwork for a future in which their country will enjoy the blessing of peace and prosperity.

The forthcoming establishment of bilateral Sudanese-Israeli ties, following on the heels of Israel's agreements with the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, is emblematic of shifting societal attitudes toward Israel and toward Jews in the region, and hopefully it will encourage other Arab and Muslim governments to follow their lead and pursue peace."

Chabad of Greater Orlando ...

"Physically Apart-Emotionally Together," the Zoom Lecture Series, will continue on Thursday, Feb. 11 at 7:30 p.m. This is a reminder for all those interested.

Rabbi FLOACH and ALTI MAJESKY, Chabad of Ghana, will discuss "Jewish Life in Ghana Africa and how one Chabad couple made Accra their home.

For further information, phone 407-644-2500x0. The cost per lecture is $10 and for the entire series, $50.

The Jewish Federation of Greater Orlando ...

This group is of particular interest to me, being widowed now for more than five years: Connecting Jewish singles in their 40s, 50s, & 60s. Brought to you by The Jewish Federation of Greater Orlando. (WHAT? Why did you stop at 60?)

It is quite private. Only members can see who's in the group and what they post. The rules are as follows: Be kind and courteous; Respect everyone's privacy; No promotions or spam; No hate speech or bullying.

For more information, phone 407-645-5933

The Roth Family JCC ...

Get ready because summer is almost here!

Registration for Camp J begins on Feb. 15.

Camp J is the new and improved (and safe!) way to be in the great outdoors! Come create, explore and play with us this summer!

To register, phone 407-645-5933.

Jewish Pavilion Mensch ...

I heard from wonderful NANCY LUDIN, who is a joy for our community, especially our seniors. She told me about the following:

Special thanks to Joanne Fink of Zenspirations for all she does to help our local Jewish community. For many years, she has designed awards and donated artwork to the Jewish Pavilion and other charities. During the pandemic, she has supplied beautiful coloring pages that the Jewish Pavilion has copied and put in the bi-monthly gift bags for seniors for every holiday.

Alan Rock Jazz Info ...

Sunday, Feb 7, 3 p.m.: The Central Florida Jazz Society presents: The Terry Myers Quartet: "Terry Myers is undoubtedly one of the best all-around reed players in the country today." So said Buddy Morrow, former leader of the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra and one of the great musicians and band leaders who was there for the early stages of the "Big Band Era." (I know this. Frank Sinatra was the band vocalist for a time. I was Jimmy Dorsey's vocalist for a time). "His versatility and expertise on the clarinet and saxophone are a treat to the ears." Joining Terry are Ron Mills on piano, Charlie Silva on bass and Paul Parker on drums. Get your tickets early! Limited seating available. Tables are first-come, first-serve.

One for the road ...

Cohen, a menswear manufacturer, returns home from a two-week vacation in Italy.

"So how was the trip?" his partner asks.

"Great, wonderful," Cohen replies.

"Did you get to see the pope?" his partner asks.

"Of course," Cohen replies. "Seems to me he's a 39 short."