What a "turn around"...

I read this recently in the World Jewish Congress (WJC) digest under the heading "British Chief Rabbi Calls for Islam to Be Taught in Jewish Schools." It surprised me and I feel you should know about it too:

"Britain's Chief Rabbi EPHRAIM MIRVIS has recommended that children be taught about Islam as part of government proposed changes to the curriculum for religious studies.

Beginning in September, British schools will be required to teach two faiths as part of their curriculum in order to receive a General Certificate of Secondary Education certification in religious studies.

This new curriculum would amount to a 25 percent reduction of the time currently allocated to Jewish studies. Religious groups had lobbied against the new requirement.

While this is a 'serious loss for Jewish school education, the Chief Rabbi said that the change provides 'a valuable opportunity' for children to learn about a 'poorly understood religion. It is more important than ever that our children have a better understanding of Islam and that we build strong relationships with British Muslims.'

The government instituted the changes last year in an effort to counter rising hate crimes and religious extremism."

(Judging by the huge rise in European anti-Semitism, this may not be a bad idea. It is surely worth a try. Also, why not institute such an idea where Muslim children learn more about Judaism?)

Mazel Tov Department...

Congratulations to MATTHEW WOLFE and his entire family on recently passing his bar exams and becoming an attorney at law.

Matthew is the son of IVY and DAVID WOLFE of Winter Park. He and his entire family are long time residents and involved members of our Jewish Community.

Matthew was born here and had his bar mitzvah at Congregation Ohev Shalom with Rabbi RUDOLPH ADLER officiating. He is a bright young man.

After graduating from Barry Law School he clerked at numerous law firms in town. He is the first attorney in the family.

After his swearing in ceremony recently, conducted by Orange County Judge LeBlanc, (See photo) his family, beaming with pride, celebrated with dinner out.

Now Matthew, with an extensive background in law, is searching for a local law firm where he can share his knowledge and offer his services.

A reminder...

This Sunday, May 1 at 2 p.m. the Congregation Ohev Shalom Seniors, with President BERNY RAFF, present a fabulous vocalist for your listening pleasure.

MARK STEVEN SCHMIDT will be performing some of our most beloved songs followed by refreshments and beverages.

For cost, directions or any other questions, phone Berny at 407-767-6763.

A true mensch...

I'm referring to LOIS SILVERBERG.

Lois Silverberg has been active with the Jewish Pavilion for more than ten years. In the earlier years, she and Pat Rubenstein secured flower donations and created beautiful arrangements for resident in long-term care. Each gift was delivered with a smile and amiable conversation. For the last three years, she has participated in a weekly ice-cream social/sing- along at Savannah court in Maitland. Lois has become exceptionally friendly with all of the residents and takes time to greet and say goodbye to every individual. She is the first to arrive and the last to leave. In addition to helping at Savannah Court, She too participates in holiday festivities in many of the senior facilities.  Lois exudes warmth and her zest for life is contagious.

Shout out...

What terrific service I had recently from a waitress at the Perkins Restaurant on University Boulevard in Winter Park!

Her name is SAMANTHA SMITH and she was most caring and wonderful at what she does!

One for the road...

Bernie is a very wealthy man indeed.

Lois Silverberg (r) with resident

One day in June, he goes on holiday with his latest, much younger girlfriend, Sarah. As the days in the sun wore on, Bernie and Sarah began to talk about the differences in their ages and interests between them.

Bernie took this opportunity to ask Sarah what was, to him, an important question. He asked, "If I lost everything, all my money, my mansion, my Rolls Royce, tomorrow, would you still love me, Sarah?"

"Yes, darling," said Sarah, "and I'd miss you too."