I must mention and salute ...

I'm talking about DAN NEWLIN, (probably not Jewish). I want to take this opportunity (on the 4th of July!) to thank him for his care and generosity to our military.

Mine is a military family. My departed spouse fought in Korea; my sons have served. Actually, my eldest is still serving. He was in the Army for more than 12 years and then switched to the Navy in 2003 where he is today a Navy commander! (I never served but I prayed a lot!)

Anyway, Dan was presented a plaque for his support of the Navy and Marines by a member of the Blue Angels.

Still speaking of Pride ...

July 4th was the 245th birthday of the United States of America!

And still speaking of Pride ...

I just learned that the Atomic Bomb, which caused Japan to surrender to a super power (us), ended World War II. I knew that, of course, (in-spite of my youth) but I just learned that one of the people responsible for it, a team leader, was our own J. Robert Oppenheimer, a Jew born in New York City.

Here are some famous comedians of my day...

(OK, so you know I'm old!)

Milton Berle was sooo very funny, especially when dressed as a woman!

Jack Benny, who has a school named after him, is another of my favorites. And there was Sammy Davis Jr. who converted to Judaism after becoming a major star ... a magnificent dancer and singer ... and comic!

And then there is another of my favorites, Gene Wilder, son of a Russian immigrant, who was super-lovable and talented!

But wait ... here is another Jewish comedian, one that I am still enjoying on television. HOWIE MANDELL is his name. And he is of Canadian stock like me! (My mom was born in Montreal.)

According to FLAME (and me) "You deserve to know the truth"...

I read this in a recent mailing of FLAME, "Facts and Logic About The Middle East." I pass this first paragraph along to you:

"As the world's greatest exporter of terror and militantly anti-American, Iran stands as one of the greatest threats to the United States and the global community. This danger is underscored by Iran's threats and outright attacks on its Middle East neighbors, as well as its bellicose actions against American assets and allies. Of course, the gorilla in the room is Iran's unceasing drive to fortify its ambitions with nuclear weapons."

(Of course, Iranian leaders have stated many times that they will do away with Israel ... and that's NOT all.)

This paragraph appeared in a FLAME letter titled "Facts and logic about the Middle East." It was written by FLAME president, JAMES SINKINSON.

(I hope President BIDEN makes no deal with Iran.)

The WJC and ADL want to ban certain hate products ...

In the wake of the break-in on Capital Hill Jan. 6th, where numerous extremists were captured on video wearing antisemitic sweatshirts and displaying other hateful items available from on-line retailers, the Anti- Defamation League and the World Jewish Congress have called on all companies that operate on online marketplaces to strengthen and better enforce policies banning any product that promotes or glorifies white supremacy, racism, Holocaust denial or trivialization, or any other types of hatred and violence.

While online retailers have done an admirable job of increasing economic opportunities for small businesses, many have failed at ensuring their platforms are not being exploited by extremists.

(Spewing hate for money ... real nice.)

Winter Park Playhouse ...

I promised I would repeat this again and again ... so here goes:

On July 30th thru Aug. 22, the musical "Crazy For Gershwin" will be performed. It features 27 timeless classics, including "They Can't Take That Away From Me," "Embraceable you" and "I Got Rhythm" (who could ask for anything more?)

For times and other information, phone 407-645-0145.

The Roth Family JCC ...

The J's Zen Basil 'hybrid' kitchen is a destination cooking space that encompasses everything from outdoor culinary experiences to the indoor and everything in between. Throughout the summer they will be offering a variety of culinary and well-being experiences that allows everyone to explore, discover, and develop healthier habits in and out of the kitchen. They are so lucky to be joined by Paz Goffer the most amazing chef!

The next class is July 25th at 1 p.m. Here's what you'll be serving up:

Buckwheat patties, Stuffed tomatoes and onions with chicken and quinoa, and Apple roses as a healthy choice for dessert to serve

(YUM YUM!! AND NO CALORIES!)

One for the road ...

Milton Berle

As an "old timer," I can see everything is more expensive these days. I can remember when 5&10 stood for cents instead of dollars.