January 1 2010

01/01/10 - here it is, a brand new year, another decade, another January. Celebrations have taken place in most capital cities around the world as fireworks, alcohol and party-filled atmosphere illuminates Earth.

2010 - welcome.

The Management.

From December 09 - Welcome 'Summer of Ten'

Greetings all, December of 2009 is approaching its end. In the North, the bitter cold strikes, and in the South, the warmth embraces. Barbeques are lit, meat consumed and crisp beer drunk. The long days in the south draw hordes of people to the outdoors, where sun, surf and swim are found. The people of the north grab snowboards and skis and head out to mountains and runs.

Airplane giant Boeing sent their 787 on its maiden test flight from Washington state. Airbus watches closely as the two powerhouses battle for the most superior of aircraft. It is akin to the battle between the U.S. and The Russians in the space war. Richard Branson is talking about space visits as well.

Our book club is going strong and December included two meetings. We read rich literature, discussed ideas, theology, technology and more. I would be interested in hearing what you have read or if you have any recommendations for future material. John Grisham, Jeffrey Archer and Nelson De Mille are banned and will not be tolerated.

In what could only be described as a low and baseless act, the ‘Arbeit macht frei’ sign, which was mounted at the entrance to Auschwitz, was stolen. Polish authorities did not waste any time in tracking down and recovering the stolen sign, but not before it was cut into three pieces. The site is of great historic importance and many travellers form across the globe visit and pay respects to the lives lost and the hardships that were had there.

Tiger Woods did not play a round of golf during the month. It was revealed that the master golfer was indulging in some non-golfing affairs. And that is all I will say.

December is a month of festivals, and it is followed by the greatest month of all, January. January is about freshness, rawness naivety. January always produces the New Year resolutions that are made and not kept.

December of 2009 will close a decade. A decade, where the population grew and terror reigned. Momentous incidents occurred, such as the tumbling of the twin towers, financial meltdowns and the advancement of technology.

Wishing you all a happy new year, make it bring the best out of you and your loved ones. May you be showered with health, prosperity and joyous times. May you encounter the good and fight the evil.

So as each beginning comes from another beginning’s end, let us welcome the ‘Summer of Ten’.

Peace.

Part 3 - year in review - December

December – 2010 is the Chinese year of the tiger; it came into effect a couple months early, as the secret double lead life of Tiger Woods was unveiled. In fairness to the sportsperson of the decade, like human beings, tigers make mistakes too. Tiger wasn’t only swinging golf clubs during his many golf tours of the world. And apparently tigers mate all year round. While on the topic of sport, Australia drew Germany, Serbia and Ghana for the World Cup. John Lennon was remembered and the streets were filled with Hanukah and Xmas lights. We celebrated 8 days of illumination, whilst environmentalists in Copenhagen celebrated climate change. Boeing got airborne as their newest jet, takes off in Washington State. The world is outraged as the ‘Arbeit macht frei’ sign is stolen from Auschwitz, Poland. The sign is later recovered by Polish authorities and had been cut into 3 pieces, a piece for each word. In separate incidents the pope was knocked down at mass in the Vatican and Berlusconi was attacked in Milan. A Nigerian national attempts to blow up a commercial jet in the U.S.A, but a Flying Dutchman saves the day. With a half a billion-dollar budget and 3D glasses, Avatar opened in cinemas worldwide. It remains to be seen if the film will be profitable. In my opinion, it was extraordinary theatrics, ordinary plot. The hot weather in the Southern Hemisphere causes bushfires to rage and ruin.

This is just some of the happenings throughout 2009. It marks the end of a decade, a decade that was labelled the noughties (or naughties). So as the New Year beckons, I wish one and all a happy, safe and adventurous 2010.

Peace.

Year in Review Part 2 July - November

In the southern hemisphere July kicks off the winter season, in the north, it is all about summer.

July – Michael Jackson is forgotten and life moves on. Memorial services are held for the late pop star and songs are sung, dances are performed and speeches are said in a night of stardom. Bruno came out – literally. It is a documentary in which some will cry and then some will cry, more. It is filled with jokes, disturbances and drama. Happy Bastille Day to all the French, plus July 4 gets a mention as well. July 2009 was 40 years since man apparently walked on the moon. Although it was debated, as to who owned the rights to the moonwalk, Michael Jackson or Neil Armstrong? July formed friendships, role models and the creation of a partner in crime.

August – Typhoon hits Taiwan and ends lives. Usain Bolt breaks more world records, and this is performed with voluntary acts of running, as opposed to those at the pursuit of the policeman. I have dubbed him, the Jamaican Cheetah, better than being called a Tiger (more to follow on the Tiger, in December). British rock band Oasis disbands (excuse the pun), the Gallagher brothers are at war again, but their tunes and talent will live on.

September – the day came and it was 09/09/09. Serena Williams made a fool of herself on the tennis court, however this is accepted as normal. A massive earthquake hits Samoa; the Island is rocked around the clock. Not only do they endure a state of dizziness from the quake, they also are forced to switch over from driving on the right, to the left. A dust storm attacks Sydney, and paints the town red. September is a time to remember, and tributes and memorials are held for those lives lost during the terror attacks on New York in 2001. The Jewish New Year is celebrated, and forgiveness is sought and at times debated.

October – Australian dollar strengthens against a weak USD. Rio de Janeiro wins the bid to host the 2016 summer Olympic games, and carnivals, they will have. Once, for the proverbial February Carnivale, followed by the games. Irresponsible parents send a hot air balloon out on a flight, claiming a child is on board. Subsequent arrests are made, and the child is found alive in the attic. Newly elected United States President Obama wins the Nobel Peace prize. In awarding the prize, the judges found that Obama’s promise of disarmament and diplomacy was too good to ignore. However, the rest of the world will ignore the prize.

November – Andre Agassi reveals that he did meth and wore a wig as a tennis player. Another Melbourne cup is run and won. The European Council designates Herman Van Rompuy as the first President of the European Council. In more European news, November marked the twenty-year anniversary since the fall of the Berlin Wall. Tiger Woods visited Australia, and managed to win a golf tournament and collected four million dollars for his win. Tiger is a winner, yet a sinner. Australian surgeons perform a successful separation of conjoined twins. The operation consisted of sixteen surgeons and some 25 hours of work. The Irish are luckless, and find their 2010 World Cup aspirations blown away by the hands of Thierry Henry.

December - Part 3, to follow.

2009 year in review Part 1 January to June

December is a great month, I’ll go further and say it is an extraordinary month. It is a month of reviews of the past year and previews for the next year.

January of 2009 - Israel continues their defensive incursion into Gaza, while the first African American President is inaugurated into office and the White House. The New first lady wore Cuban designer Isabel Toledo and it is evident that black is the new white. In New York, a brave pilot lands an Airbus A320 on the Hudson River. All on board survive, and the real hero is Obama. He eloquently praises the captain of the aircraft and the miracle on the Hudson it was. Financial markets continue to tumble, while the American mint was busy printing money and Slovakia adopted the Euro currency. Somewhere in between all that, an American newsreader mispronounced the word ‘plethora’. Happy birthday wishes, to all those January people.

February – bushfires ravage and cause some of the worst destruction in Australian history. Lives are lost; communities are devastated and insurance companies feel the heat too (excuse the pun). Zimbabwe appoints a new Prime Minister, although the dictator Robert Mugabe has already inflicted much damage on to the Commonwealth State. This leads to the eventual indefinite suspension of the Zimbabwean dollar in April 2009. Meanwhile, the Oscars took place and sadly Heath Ledger did not show up to collect his Oscar. Oh, but there is this thing called the after-life.

March – call it predictable, but TIA (this is Africa) and Guinea- Bissau President was assassinated in his own home. The Russians continue to assist African nations; and many Kalashnikov guns can be bought and traded throughout the diamond-laden lands. Some of us trade gossip for coffee, whilst others trade lives. Terrorism continues as Sri Lankan cricketers are fired upon on their way to a match in Pakistan. During all this savagery, I turned a couple of pages in Tolstoy’s ‘War and Peace’. I was introduced to a beer aptly called ‘Arrogant Bastard’. Winter slowly disappeared in the North, as did the value of bonds, stocks and shares. The travel industry seemed to have survived the global economic crisis; airports such as New York’s John F Kennedy, London’s Heathrow and Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion were occupied with eager travellers, the proverbial drug smugglers and tough security enforcers.

April – the four questions were asked at the Passover table and other questions were raised and debated too. The detection of swine flu caused scare and fear amongst the world. It initiated in Mexico (what was possibly a drug export gone wrong) and spread. The disease, called swine flu, is not spread through the eating of pork, however, swine flew around the globe causing death and harm. I thank my sister, her family and my cousin for hosting me during my stay in Israel during April. It was a memorable trip. Jerusalem was magical, Tel Aviv was audacious and everywhere else in between was just Israel.

May – Mother’s day came and went and spring weather was welcomed in the North. Frisbees were taken to the outdoors and beaches were targeted by the multitudes who wanted to become brown or browner. The Pope made the pilgrimage to Jerusalem as the aromatic smell of barbeques filled the New York City air. North Korea undertook a nuclear testing, but the world failed to notice. Somali pirates continued their assault on the seas and exorbitant ransoms were sought for release of captives. In brighter news, Australia qualified for the soccer World Cup in South Africa in 2010.

June – tragedy strikes as an Air France Airbus cannot duplicate the heroics of the miracle on the Hudson and all those aboard perish in the sea off the coast of Brazil. The human ‘spider-man’, Alain Robert continues to scale skyscrapers around the world. Iran goes to elections and riots break out causing havoc and a potential revolution. June had other moments, but none greater than the untimely (which is of arguable nature) death of pop singer-cum- icon Michael Jackson. He joined Elvis Presley, perhaps in heaven. Michael Jackson fulfilled his very own words and ‘healed this world, and made it a better place for you and for me’. Michael Jackson left so many orphans, in a now safer world. Michael died on a Thursday in his Los Angeles mansion, this was followed by Friday mourning. Life moves on, even for Bernie Madoff who was sentenced to 150 years imprisonment for his involvement in a 50 billion dollar ponzi scheme, but Bernie still managed to celebrate his final father’s day before incarceration.

That is, just, half of 2009.

I can hear the December tunes ....

I can already hear the tunes of December; they beat in unison with the warm summer sun and the crisp taste of freshly brewed beer. I welcome you to the Southern Hemisphere summer of 09/10. The days are becoming longer for us in the south, while Bernie Madoff’s are becoming shorter. A happy thanksgiving to the American heart and soul. I am certain Obama’s first Thanksgiving as an African American President was filled with gratitude and appreciation.

It has been quite the month. New Moon has hit Australian Shores, but I have only heard disappointing reviews. Thierry Henry was able to get his hand into motion, and with that, he projected France into the World Cup. This is not an Irish Joke. Additionally, I would like to apologise to all those out there who I may have offended, by calling football, soccer.

So 2009 draws to a close, we are close to 10, but not much safer. Time is flying, and so was Andre Agassi, as he disclosed that he did Meth and wore a wig whilst on the tennis court. Pirates still rule the waters of Somalia and apparently are thriving in their lucrative business called kidnap and ransom. Tiger Woods golfed in Australia and became 4 million dollars richer and so did a certain New York Yankee pitcher. During the month of November we celebrated our own 9/11, but we do not really like to take the spotlight off our American neighbours, so we stay low-key.

Many moustaches were visible on the streets of Sydney, and I am certain they were welcomed in other parts of the world. To those who participated, mo you grow from strength to strength. To those that did not, there is always next year.

I have registered to participate in the annual Rockefeller Center climb to the top, a charity run with all money raised going towards Multiple Sclerosis research. The race takes place on the 28^th of February 2010 in New York City. It would be a true honour to have you participate with me. If you would like to donate to this worthy cause please contact me, and arrangements can be made. Training is underway (this is not a reference to warfare).

As we enter December, it is usually the time when we look back on the year that was and how we can improve, well some of us do. It is also a time when the best of 2009 is revealed. Yes, there are some shocking revelations. ‘Unfriend’ was voted word of 2009 and I thank all my loyal friends, who I have either retained or have become acquainted with. (The idea of reacquainting is not unhealthy either).

The word from Sydney is good, I continue and am nearing completion of my articling in the legal jungle of Sydney. A friend and I started a book club – please wish us luck. The beaches are filling up, with people. Whales are giving birth and the sharks are getting hungry. And at the end of the day, it seems, all people want for Christmas is a Westfield gift card.

Happy Hanukah.

Sunday Schnapps

I meandered down the hills of Bondi to the beach to grab some afternoon beers after a swim on a beautiful Sunday.

We drank at the recently opened Bavarian Bier (Beer) Cafe in Bondi Beach. My Beer pick of the Day was the Lowenbrau Original.

According to their website, it is a crisp, complex and refreshing taste.

If you are in Sydney, a visit should be made and drinks should be tasted at this Beer Garden.

And here it is:

http://www.bavarianshavemorefun.com/splash/

Giving and receiving

I attended a close friends wedding this past week. Prior to getting married, the groom took a chance to tell some of his close friends of the unification that marriage brings about. The groom is to give to his new beautiful bride. The bride is to give to her new groom. In turn, their receipts from one another are turned into one being, one body, a reuniting of two souls into one.

Marriage of two individuals of the different sex enables this enigma to exist.

Reunions mark the bringing together of an event from a bygone time. Similarly, when two souls reunite, it is a time of joy.

Marriage is the ultimate reunion.

The month of OcSober

The month of OcSober ……

Greetings and salutations people of the world, I hope this write-up finds you well. Fresh from some wild yet tame festivities, I have settled back into somewhat of a normal routine following the High holidays and the drinkathon that followed suit. It was a happy time here in Sydney, as we celebrated in rain-drenched booths, dined in complete waterlogged surroundings, but continued in the traditional ways of rain, hail or shine, there is always room for another drink.

Australia is doing well, so well, that a new airline has started operating on the domestic circuit. Tiger is its name, (although they have cheap fares, I hear it is almost bring your own chairs). By the way, there are some cheap international ticket prices going around these days. Australia welcomes you all. The Australian dollar continues to mount its ascent and punish the markets. As always, New Zealanders will try and copy anything Australian, and their dollar is doing quite nicely too.

I have yet to see the new Michael Jackson movie ‘This is it’. It is an interesting movie title, which I am sure is laden with such amazing and beautiful footage of the once famous pop singer. It is a shame; the movie is probably not ‘black and white’. What a farce it was that Obama was awarded the Nobel Peace prize. However, this was silenced when NASA decided to smash a rocket into the moon and create worldwide media attention. So who is next on the list? Here’s hoping it is the Iranian nuclear projects. Oh, but the highly respectable U.N. are overseeing things there. I’m just saying.

During the month, I read that Kafka dreamed about going to Palestine. This is a dream for me too. I long for the Holy land and am constantly amazed by the incredible country that has been built there. Over the years, with G-D’s help, a transformation of amazing multitude has happened in our little country Israel. Situated just off the Mediterranean Sea filled with felafel stands and Arak drink. I wish the men and women that guard the borders from the land, sea and air much success and safety in their tasks. Just for the record, I have labelled Byron Bay, as an Israeli colony.

So November is nearing and in the past few years, this month has been dubbed ‘Movemeber’. Some men grow their moustache to highlight men’s issues. (Is it not bad enough that women highlight men’s issues all year long?) It is a month of charity, a month where some men look hideous, whilst others shine. It is a month, specifically reserved for men. Helen Keller is certainly smiling down from above on this one. Will Bernie Madoff, who sits somewhere in a jail cell grow his moustache?

So all eyes are back on New York City as the New York Yankees play in the World Series. I wish them the best of luck. I hope the rain stays away and allows for fair and open play.

What is happening in your lives and how has the post festivities syndrome been for you? Has anyone gone and relocated? What is your new destination?

Fill me in on your adventures and stories.

Summer times are better than sometimes.

September sleep over party

Today In Bondi Beach, tomorrow in Jerusalem.

It is quite startling and yet frightening what a year can achieve. It produces the unimaginable and creates historic moments of both the highest degree of distinction and infamy. This past year comprised of that.

Last year, I celebrated the Festivals in the holy city of Jerusalem and I am still living in hope that I can, again , celebrate the remaining festivities and joyous parties in the holy city.

Well, I returned to my birthplace and homeland to celebrate my brother's becoming of age. It is the Jewish custom, that a male child turns adult at age 13. The same applies to a female child at age 12. Who said equality doesn't exist? I'm just saying. The celebrations have occurred, the boy turned man. He gave the family so much joy, happiness and memories. He chanted melodically, he spoke with eloquence and he performed with confidence. Mazel Tov and L'chaim (loosely translated as congratulations and salut/cheers). We wish the boy much luck and blessings in the future. He is sure to lead the example of his predecessors and live a life of honesty, integrity and devotion.

Sydney is keeping me busy. I article and work at a boutique law firm. Real Property is selling, Personal Property is fluctuating and intellectual Property is developing. The sun shines and Sydney's more behaved Radio DJ's continue to spin good records and tunes.

Questions arise, and some are quickly answered. Some linger and remain unresolved. One I can answer, is, that Roger Federer is human. Yes, he is beatable and this was seen in the final of the U.S. Open tennis final. Congratulations to the winner ( forgive me, I amongst many others have already forgotten the winner, something along the lines of Del Porto). The movie Inglorious Basterds has continued to soar in the box office, whilst Serena Williams claims the title as the Inglorious bitch.

Celebrations continued and the new lunar year was heralded in. A time of year where reflection and repentance is apparent. The aim is to free oneself of sin, transgression and any iniquitous behaviour, My hope is, that all was forgiven. However, not everything is forgotten.

Yes, there is a new year ahead, with new beginnings and fresh resolutions (which are made, only to be broken). One man who has made a proud stance on the new year is Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He is to be commended for showing the world, the lies and deceit which are spat forth from evil mouths such as Ahmadinejad ( which is hard to pronounce, so I have simplified it to, 'I am mad and bad').

A Pacific (Ocean) tsunami rocked Samoa and resulted in many deaths and injury in what seems to be an impromptu catastrophe. The Samoans have only recently switched to driving on the left side of the road (which is in fact, right i.e correct). A red dust storm settled across gorgeous Sydney, while Kanye West staged his own little dustup with music lovers, as he ran amok at the music awards at Radio City Music Hall.

September's curtains are drawn and October awaits to be opened. The Southern Hemisphere is warming up, while the Northern Hemisphere is causing chapped lips. Octoberfest is already in operation and many people wait with anticipation for beer and parties. All I can say is drink responsibly.

Now to all my readers, where are you? where have you been? And where are you going?

Salut,

S

Welcome new lunar year

For all those who follow the lunar cycle, the new year has been heralded as one which is to be mighty, powerful and full of positivity.

New is fresh.

Unblemished is healthy.

Sinless is faultless.

So how was the inception of the new year for everyone out there in the wide world web ?

Happy Days

Happy New year

To all my Jewish readers and followers, I wish you a happy sweet new year. To all my other readers I wish you also a happy and joyous last few months of 2009.

Some will make new year resolutions and there are bound to be some Corporate dissolutions. We hope that no longer will there be any economic capitulation and we pray for terrorist annihilation.

and a new year starts ...

Farewell August . wake me up when September ends.

Departures: August

Arrivals: September

Hi everyone, and hope that you are all doing fine (no swine flu). Well, I am back in Sydney, Australia and what can I say; it is too gorgeous for words.

I was welcomed back in many ways with open arms (some figurative). There is no other place like Bondi Beach and Oxford Street is divine. Along the way back to the southern hemisphere, I stopped In Los Angeles, for what I would a call a respite. I had the most enjoyable of times. I had great hosts, saw some great sights, ate some delights and most importantly got together with old faces and had many embraces. (I even saw a Michael Jackson impersonation on Robertson Boulevard in downtown LA.)

If you do happen to be in Los Angeles, I highly recommend that you cruise down the Pacific Coast Highway and stop into Moon Shadows, in Malibu. They make great Bloody Marys and their ambience is Pacific Coast style (literally, dining and drinking takes place on top of the ocean). I thank my sister Fraydie and friends for showing me some good times.

The end of summer is drawing near for those up north, while down south, the summery weather is looming, while the flowers are blooming. Everyone has their own stories and incidents that make up their highlights of the summer, and I would love to hear some of them.

My 3 favourite Summer 09 times were those spent in the Hamptons, my family’s visit to New York and my cousin’s wedding, (and not because they all involved much inebriation). The blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean, Frisbee on the long sandy stretch of New York’s Long Island, barbecue’s galore and happy times with family and friends.

August was fast and furious; just ask Usain Bolt who continues to break world records in the 100 and 200-meter sprint. In other news, I had some wisdom removed, the teeth type, and am healing. It dawned upon me that X-rays are X rated.

September is upon us, and this means that the Jewish New Year is imminently arriving. Parables are used as a tool to tell us that the King is in the field and that G-d is close to us, for us all to repent and return to. Let me hear your parables about the Queen.

I give my blessings for a healthy, wealthy and wise month.

Wake me up when September ends.

Double lightning bolt strike

I would like to complement my post on Usain Bolt (the Jamaican Cheetah ) and add that the lightning Bolt has struck twice. Bolt continues to break records with incredible pace and human ability.

Watch Bolt win the 200 meter fly in Berlin.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=miO5jDaoH_c

Another chapter

I was having an X-ray today on my teeth, and during the procedure I had a thought that X-rays are actually X-rated. 

This will be the name of another of the chapters in my book titled 'The Pedantic Semantics'.

The Jamaican Cheetah.

Human feats are sometimes plagued with controversy. I refer more specifically to sporting feats, where world records are set and established. (There are of course other human natural feats and accomplishments which are filled with dispute and disagreement.)

Today, the Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt (And he runs light a lightning bolt) broke his own natural world record of the 100 meter dash in Berlin. Bolt will be tested for any enhanced substances which may have assisted in his triumph and record, but Bolt has shown sheer natural talent and ability in winning this title. Bolt will be categorised by some as a human freak, with freakish ability to run and continue breaking world record times.

It is the custom amongst some to be jealous and envious of people when they record or obtain incredible feats. There will be those who will say Bolt is a cheat, drug ridden and so on. As of now, Bolt owns the record and is to be congratulated. 

The Man v Cheetah (world's fastest animal) has already been staged, with obviously no doubt as to the winner. In my opinion that kind of race is pointless. The cheetah will not be upstaged by a human.  All that we can say about Usain Bolt is, that he is the Jamaican Cheetah.

Here is a video clip of Bolt's sensational race in berlin earlier today.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KRbuVDyvp5E

Destination Sydney

I write, from Los Angeles International Airport in Terminal 2 (post security check) as I await for Air New Zealand flight 1 to Sydney via Auckland. 

LA has been great to me. She has been warm and hospitable, providing sunshine and good sites (sights). I caught up with old friends, interestingly, made some new ones. (And somehow lost some.)

I always enjoy Southern California (I have yet to see Northern). It is a beautiful piece of creation, bordered by deserts, water, mountains and valleys. 

Next stop Sydney - Born and bred in Bondi Beach I am looking forward to my return to this stunning metropolis. 

All aboard ... 

Airports and love

I got this piece from the Movie Love Actually. (It could be true)

Enjoy.

'Whenever I get gloomy with the state of the world, 
I think about the arrivals gate at Heathrow airport. 
General opinion makes out that we live in a world of hatred and greed 
I don't see that. 
Seems to me that love is everywhere. 
Often it's not particularly dignified or newsworthy but it's always there. 
Fathers and sons, mothers and daughters, husbands and wives, 
boyfriends, girlfriends, old friends. 
When the planes hit the Twin Towers, 
none of the phone calls from people on board were messages of hate or revenge, 
hey were all messages of love. 
lf you look for it, I've got a sneaky feeling you'll find that love actually is all around.'

From east to west

Landed in sun drenched Southern California for a few days, en route to Australia. The weather is magnificent, which allows for beach, sun and water related activities. 

Time to catch up with some friends, some newer some older. 

What I have observed about California is the vast space and width of the area. One can actually 'breathe' here, unlike the overcrowded and cluttered New York City.

California is famous for many things, in the past, it was the gold rush. In more recent times (pretentious and unpretentious) celebrities and people involved in the entertainment industry have gathered and now live in the Los Angeles vicinity. California is home to some beautiful beaches up the west coast, and its wine region in the north.

California has a former movie star, Arnold Schwarzenegger as its Governor  and have held the summer olympic games twice, once in 1932 and 1984.

I am a pacific coast kind of guy.

End of July - where does time fly?

Greetings (to all) and meetings consume people’s lives, they are hopefully useful, yet they at times are useless or even catastrophic. Such has been the case with the recent disturbing and shameful events that occurred in various parts of Northern America with the arrest of several mayors and ‘high profile Rabbi’s’ with allegations of money laundering, embezzlement, black market organ sales and fraud. (Apparently, they were arrested to the tune of Michael Jackson’s “smooth criminal’.) Good, honest and hardworking people do not take heed of these events with much scrutiny, we move on and plants new seeds and create new ideas and innovations to our lives.

So to all the naysayers out there, let us wait and see how the justice system (which may be corrupt as well) imposes either the proper and adequate punishment or acquittal.

New York City summer continues to provide the summer that all New Yorkers are accustomed to. Super humid hot days with freak thunder and lightning storms are available. This factor assists beer drinking but limits outdoor play. The outdoor summer screens have been set up and I believe McCarren Park in Greenpoint offers the best viewing opportunity.  Wednesday night during the summer, under the stars, surrounded by an industrial looking Brooklyn, one can sit outdoors on their favourite blanket, eat popcorn and almonds, drink beer, observe hipsters, and view ‘interesting’ films. (But then again it may rain, so always have alternative plans.)

I wish congratulations, once again, to my cousins Daniel and Elana on their wedding in early July. It was an incredibly beautiful, moving, fun-filled wedding weekend. The weekend leading up to the wedding was wonderful.  The guests were able to bond, be merry and watch as the bride and groom were on those initial steps of their life together. It was good family time, we laughed (some cried), we reminisced - nothing was missed. The wedding was special it was filled with ecstasy, love and laughter. It was my pick of the parties of the summer 2009.

My find of July was the segregated pizza store in Williamsburgh (naturally, I sat on the women’s side.)

Michael Jackson is gone, but his legacy lives on. Ride the New York Subway and you will spot the young and old sporting MJ memorabilia. And that is the end of that.

Summertime always brings back those memories of fun and sun filled times. Like that great song back from that summer spent cruising the 405 in California or the one spent sojourning on the TGV in Southern France, or that gorgeous sunny day, spent on the golden sand and refreshing ocean of Bondi Beach. So what will that song of the summer be? Will their be that special memory, or will your summer be remembered and forgotten for some brainless act? Let me hear some of your summer stories.

We commemorate the destruction of God’s holy temple and it was due to acts of self–hate and self –centeredness that the destruction occurred.  So instead of calling people names, make yourself someone of fame. When you see someone in need, help him or her by doing a good deed.  

Peace and party.

Leaders

People who are in positions of power and authority and those who are supposed to be role models for society, ought not to abuse that power and control placed trustfully with them. Whether this be a Chief executive officer of a corporation, a Rabbi, the Priest, a Judge, a government official and the list continues.

If corruption and fraudulent behavior is found amongst those who are meant to act as figures of morality and ethical values, what is to be of the recipients of those figures? 

Of course, in such a situation we are not to follow and support the corrupt leader. 

It is almost the case of the blind leading the blind. 

Moon walk

Today is the anniversary of Neil Armstrong's apparent walk on the moon. Speculators have called the moon landing by the Americans on July 20 1969 a hoax, whilst many celebrate the great feat, excuse the pun, which touched down on the surface of the moon.

Was it staged? We may never know. 

40 years on, the world has advanced both in quality and quantity and even a bit more equity.

Space shuttles continue their exploration of the galaxy with their state of the art gear and rockets, but until verified proof of the landing is available, I am one of those speculators.

Caspian Hat Dance

I saw the Caspian Hat Dance play at a few shows in New York City recently.

At Zebulon in Greenpoint, Don Pedro in South Wlliamsburg and at Mehanata in the Lower east side.

Feel free to check out their gypsy inspired rhythms and eclectic sounds.

http://www.caspianhatdance.com/?monkeysez=make_monkey_go

Peace - Keep on cruising and playing those tunes 

Unpredictability

Unpredictability, 

can it or can't it be controlled,

supervised, restricted or limited ?

it seems to be a thing that evolved 

over time, 

and at times is devolved.

Unpredictability,

may be found in situations 

where perhaps love is found

then lost, 

perhaps regained, 

and restored 

to a place where the blind can see

and the deaf, hear.

Unpredictability,

is random,

maybe even a phantom

performed by the madmen

and which maybe exists in the

garden of Eden.

Unpredictability,

is true beauty,

sometimes in the form of 

valuable booty,

whether it be in a state of 

intimacy or divinity,

majority or minority, 

harmony or disharmony 

honest or dishonesty, 

but like most things in life, 

in which we journey,

it becomes something which is

mere history

remaining a complete 

mystery.

The gypsy and music

I live in Brooklyn, New York. Brooklyn is made up of a variety of communities - formed from different religions, ethnic groups and cultures. 

Where do they hail from? Where does the multi-cultured society of Brooklyn stem from? In short, it is a bunch of nomadic groups, who have trekked, travelled and transferred their communities from their place of origin and have created similar style communities in New York.

Brooklyn contains this nomadic/gypsy style atmosphere. In Williamsburg the languages of Polish, Ukrainian, Spanish, Yiddish and others can be heard amongst the streets filled with art, cafes and music venues. Nomads, and here I call them a type of gypsy group who have relocated with their original music, dishes and cultures transporting them across from Europe, South America and the former USSR.

It quite a phenomena to witness such a transformation. Preservation of original rituals,rites, customs and practices perpetuate an ethnic group or religious community. I have seen this first hand in Brooklyn. 

I saw an Amsterdam based Gypsy band play on the streets of Bedford Avenue and North 5th street with Romanian gypsy lyrics. Equipped with a violin, double bass, horns (the music type), percussion and guitars they filled the air with musical genius. Their music evoked that sense of European aura. They are preserving and sustaining their roots and origins. 

(The band was called Caspian Hat Dance)

May we all take a lesson from it.

Preserve whilst not allowing for your roots to fall into disrepair.

The Paradox of the human

In the week that passed I was able to witness and observe certain aspects of human interaction and behaviour. 

I attended the most beautiful of weddings, where bride and groom seem so in love. The atmosphere was incredibly spirited. 

One sees the goodness and kindness as people celebrate other's fortune. I did not see any greed, selfishness or jealousy on the dance floor. I saw beaming smiles, tears of joy and jubilation. 

And this is where the beauty of hindsight plays its part.

A few days before the wedding I saw the paradox of the human. I witnessed an act which went to the core and epitome of selfishness. It was an inconsiderate act, thoughtless and one that involved self-seeking.

And the paradox will play on .... 

 

Here's to a July summer

Greetings.

July is here, but seemingly the summer is not. When it rains it pours, and that has been the order through the month of June.  Then again, there is saying that water is a sign of blessing, favour and protection.  Finally, the sun did shine in June, albeit not in a physical manner. Some people walked the streets of New York with pride whilst others jumped through puddles of water and uncertainty and some were brave enough to boogie to the words of 30h3 hit song ‘Don’t trust me’. (For copyright and cleanliness purposes I will not be recording the lyrics in this post.)

Bernie Madoff got life (150 years in prison) for the ponzi scheme that he created. Michael Jackson took a different route and joins Elvis Presley (the details are still unclear what caused the death until autopsy findings are disclosed). Wimbledon is on, but really who cares, Roger Federer will win (I will gladly eat my words if my prediction is wrong). Election drama and chaos filled the streets in Iran, people were butchered and the state still does not know what to do.  Airplanes fell out of the sky, while a pilot died midflight. Swine flew around the world as the deadly pandemic continues its ruthless outbreak.

We sent off my cousin Daniel into his impending marriage with the traditional Bachelor party.  A weekend in Westhampton beach was organised and a success it was. It was a weekend filled with bachelorhood, hangovers, drunken windsurfing, pink elephants, and beer before whisky, vodka, zealousness and torturous sermons. But the sun did shine. On that note, I would like to wish my cousins Daniel And Elana a hearty Mazel Tov and congratulations on their upcoming wedding. May your lives be filled with love, laughter, bliss and contentment.

Family weddings are always good times, and it is good to have my family visiting from all over the world. The reunion of sorts and get togethers, have been filled with amusement and character. We walked the streets of the Lower East side, ferried across the Hudson River, trekked through Chinatown and used the fare increased subway system of New York city. A subway ride will now cost you $2.25, and you still get to your destination late.  The fun times continue. Gardens are opening and the winter roofs have been removed.

Unemployment has declined, while struggling bands get into gear for their big summer ahead.  The Decemberists will still be playing their music in the summer months of July and August.  The longer summer day brings a sense of gaiety, where outdoor activities including the barbeque, under the moonlight cinema and beach days can be had and enjoyed.

The Northern hemisphere summer always brings back good memories of my backpacking days in Europe. From the spectacular sights of Scandinavia, the vivacious atmosphere of Venice, pretty Prague and the bewitchment of Barcelona. And a whole lot more. The world is your oyster and there to discover.

Make the most of Summer 2009 in whatever you do, and I wish one and all a healthy, happy and sun filled summer.

Remember to bring a present back for your mother.

Let the sun shine.

 

 

Last full week of June 09

We start another week of 2009.  The last complete week of June and the world is in chaos (the media make it seem a lot worse). 

Iran could be on the brink of a revolution - John Lennon penned a great song so apt for the occasion. Iraq continues to be decimated by suicide attacks. Palestine and Israel attempt to create a state within a state (total confusion). 

And yet, there is a whole lot more (and less). 

But on a brighter note, Wimbledon the prestigious Tennis championship gets underway in London (and no doubt will be halted at certain stages for rain delays). Reigning champion Rafael Nadal will not appear, allowing for the Fed express (Roger Federer) to win his sixth title. Crowd favourite and homeboy Andy Murray is also in with a chance. On the women's side, the William's sisters are favourites.

Amidst the plague called terror, there is some bright light.

Cheers

Happy father's day

I wish all the father's out there a memorable and happy father's day. I wish my own father one too. In Australia we celebrate father's day on the first sunday of September. 

But when in Rome, do like the Romans. 

I saw an interesting piece on father's day where President Obama asks father's to setup up to the plate and be father's. 

Father's should obviously be father's or they should think well in advance about being a potential parent. Procreation is not some form of experimentation, but a full time occupation.

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/washington/

 

Hate

Hate. A powerful concept and a word with many descriptions.

The U.S Holocaust museum (and the innocent visitors and security forces at the museum) was the target of a hate related crime today in Washington D.C. It is alleged that James Von Brunn, a known 'hardcore neo Nazi' and a member of a white supremacist group opened fire indiscriminately at the museum. Von Brunn is 88 years old, a known criminal, a convicted felon and a man of true hate.

Hate. What to do with it ?

(When this was authored, details were still sketchy surrounding the details of the shooting.)

Crossing the ditch

I trekked across the Canadian - United States border following my exciting little Toronto adventure. Thanks to my brother and his family for their hospitality and open home. The travels continue into the USA. 

I hope the summer days are just around the corner. Let the sun shine.

Inspiration

I appreciate when underdogs gain ascendence and rise to the top or close to it. Robin Soderling, an underrated Swedish tennis player is to play Roger Federer the swiss ace in Sunday's Roland Garros French open final. 

Players such as Soderling, inspire and give reason to continue in each of our own personal pursuits that life offers. It not matter, whether success is found on the tennis court, in the world wide web or on a farm land. Success is measured each according to their own. 

Hard work, gutsy determination and positive belief in oneself, is healthy, wealthy and wise. 

So good luck to both players and to the two Russian ladies who will square off in the ladies final.

Air France flight 447

The 'miracle of flight' seems to have been disturbed on Monday, when Air France flight 447 flying from Rio De Janeiro to Paris disappeared from radar and electronic communication. 

200 or so people it is feared have perished in a tragic accident that may never be solved. Condolences, prayer and thoughts go out to the families who had loved ones aboard the aircraft when it apparently lost contact with controllers over the Atlantic ocean during a heavy storm.

The miracle of life unfortunately at times meets death.

Twitter time

Twitter time. In the new age of technology, twitter is changing the face of marketing and networking. Twitter enables 'the world' to follow social networks and communicate and inform each other of happenings within many industries and the like.

So tweet in health and twitter with me.

follow me at sled613

From Mayfest to sand Junes

June 2009 approaches like the French TGV speed rail in full flight. May has had its moments, incidents, and joyous times. Manchester United were able to win the premiership for the third successive time in as many years, but failed in their attempt to secure back to back European Champions League glory. As it has been said before, ‘the best team on the park that day were the deserving winners’.

Life and the weather in New York is warming up and the crowds are swarming in all the glorious and green parks that the great city has to offer. The winter hibernation syndrome has seemed to have passed and the unseen and concealed individuals of the weather-beaten winter magically reappear. The summery atmosphere apparently works wonders, as quasi depressants and borderline insanity patients find that in summer there is more to life.

I trekked north of the border to Toronto, Canada for the Jewish festival of Shavuot. I thank my brother and his family for their hospitality. I had not been to Canada (besides the time I ventured in for a quick few hours in 2006 for a wedding) since I had studied in Montreal, Quebec in 2002. I still cannot proclaim that I do in fact speak French. I will not be undertaking any French lessons for that matter. What I can reveal is, that I do intend on picking up some guitar lessons and a guitar as I make some sort of effort in gaining rock star status.

Canada is a beautiful place, (I know this statement is of arguable substance). As a part of the commonwealth it gives me great pleasure to once again see the sites and visit the country that is known for great Ice hockey teams and mediocre beer. Culturally, Canada can be likened to Australia in many ways, aspects and shared customs. Yes the Queen features on our money, yes we spell the word ‘colour’ the same way and yes we are both jealous of our neighbours (Australia is very envious of the New Zealand Haka). The many comparisons can be made, adduced and analysed, but at the end of the day ‘I still call Australia home’.

The world is still in a state of chaos and one can thank the media for that too. Obama continues to make changes, but that was predictable. North Korea tests its nuclear capacity whilst Israel tests its tenacity. Swine flu had some of the worlds’ attention, whilst the US dollar lost its bout on the international market. Automobiles are still being bought, but who knows how long it will be before the world reverts to the horse drawn coach and buggy (the Amish have the right idea).

We live in hope that these upcoming summer months (for all the northern hemisphere populace) can bring much serenity, safety and sanity to a rather nonsensical world. So instead of throwing hand grenades, throw a Frisbee or boomerang at your local beach or park. Instead of playing war games, play scrabble and bananagrams.

Pray one, pray all that the world remains protected from those barbaric individuals who attempt to cause havoc and destruction and that everyone has the best summer of their lives.

Bon Voyage to those who have travel plans for Cuba, Portugal and Sweden. good luck to my friends who have relocated to their various new posts around the world. May you go in peace and return in one piece.

Peace and party.

The uniqueness of the woman

"A Woman" 
 
 This is written in the Hebrew Talmud, the book 
 where all of the sayings and preaching of 
 Rabbis are conserved over time. 
 
 
 It says: "Be very careful if you make a woman 
 cry, because God counts her tears. The woman 
 came out of a man's rib. Not from his feet to be 
 walked on. Not from his head to be superior, but 
 from the side to be equal. Under the arm to be 
 protected, and next to the heart to be loved.

Pass this on to all exceptional women that you know.. 
and to men so they know the value of a woman. 

Congratulations FC Barcelona

Eto'o and Messi scored as Barcelona produced some magic against the Red Devils in Rome.

Barcelona are the Champions.

Commiserations to Manchester United.

Toronto, Canada

World wide web, i have arrived in Toronto, Canada. I haven't been to Canada since I completed Judaic studies at a college in Quebec in 2002. (I retract and admit that I had been back to Canada for a few hours in January of 2006 for a friends wedding.) I now have come to visit my brother and his family and peruse the scene for possible work opportunity.

North of America, yet still in North America lies a Commonwealth country with a bilingual character and a quasi european taste. 

Canada is unlike the United States in many ways, and I look forward to my little stint here.

Happy Shavout to all those celebrating. 

Champions League final - FC Barcelona V Manchester United.

I wish the best of luck to both teams who take the pitch in today's epic champion league's final in Rome, Italy. Two of the European giants of the game will battle for glory in a game that should provide pure athleticism, football sublime and goals.

Ronaldo and Messi are just two of the champions of players that will represent the teams. The question is, will it be the brilliance of one champion that decides the result or will a team of champions seal its fate.

May the best and fairest team win.

Canada (Toronto) bound

I am Canada bound on Wednesday 27th May. If anyone is in the Toronto vicinity, do not be a stranger and give a shout out.

Summertime hits New York

So I was wondering if the sun was dying and fading as the weather has been rather bleak of late here in NYC. Wednesday 20th May brought immense sunshine and light to New York. 

We barbecued rooftop style and enjoyed the heat and light of the sun. 

Bring on the summer.

17 things I despise

1) I hate when my falafel does not stay intact and the hummus and falafel fall despairingly all over the place.
2) I hate when drivers disobey traffic rules and fail to stop at pedestrian crossings.
3) I hate it when I see 'practicing observant' Jews protesting against the state of Israel and its existence.
4) I hate certain parts of the media for their sensationalizing of the news.
5) I hate it when poured but untouched alcohol goes to waste.
6) I hate it when whilst in the midst of a rain downpour, the umbrella that is shielding you from the rain is blown inside out and far away.
7) I hate it when your local Rabbi ( for some it's your priest or sheikh) does not practice what he/she preaches.
8) I hate the fact that embassies and consulates have such short and useless operating hours.
9) I hate drinking warm beer.
10) I hate when people smoke (not discriminating on the type of smoke) and exhale directly into your face.
11) I hate it when people crawl and ingratiate themselves onto others i.e when they lick other people's shoes.
12) I hate when people are dishonest with their friendships. 
13) I hate it when the phone call you are about to answer stops short of ringing.
14) I hate it when the toilet overflows just as you have put new carpet down.
15) I hate it when you know you have had one too many matzoh balls in your soup. 
16) I hate it when the tennis ball that you were playing with is intercepted by the stray dog that is roaming around the park illegally unleashed. 
17) I hate conforming and like being different, so this one will be a hate yet love thing. I hate yet love airports. I love holidays/vacation. I hate saying goodbye.

There are plenty more, these are just a few.

Always remember 'make love not war'.

Please add on additional things in the comment section.

and remember to behave.

Eurovision 2009

Congratulations to Norway as they clinch the Eurovision song contest of 2009 in Moscow. Alexander Rybak and his song 'fairytale' was voted number 1. 

Israel finished 16th overall with Noa and Mira Awad singing 'there must be another way'. It is a song composed in Hebrew, Arabic and English.

Happy Mothers day

I wish my mother and sisters and whomever else wants to take my wishes, a happy mothers day.

This one is for you mum. A day (well it should be everyday) when you are to be spoiled and loved.

All my love.

Second Passover = second chances.

G-d loves us! You may ask how this is so? The fact that in life we are afforded second chances is proof to this matter.

 

Enter Adam and Eve, the first two human beings to reside in this great world. How lucky, living in the Garden of Eden. A transgression occurs, when they partake in the eating of the forbidden fruit. G-d decides instead of bringing about their death, they will be expelled from their ‘paradise’, the Garden of Eden. The human being is given a second chance in this world, minus the luxuries of the Garden of Eden.

 

We leave Egypt and stand at the foot of Mount Sinai, eagerly awaiting the appearance of Moses our leader who is to unveil and hand to us the Ten Commandments, our guide to life. We instead choose to dance around a Golden Calf. We lose hope and trust in G-d. Moses appears and sees the abominable sight of the Golden Calf and the ‘chosen people’ dancing around it, he subsequently breaks the two tablets. But G-d, yet again, gives us a second chance. A new set of the Ten Commandments are formed and we receive the Torah.

 

We are told that our bodily souls are creatures of reincarnation. Our souls have been to this world before, albeit in dissimilar forms, with distinct features and a different body. The soul returns to ‘fill the gaps’, which were left unfinished in their previous sojourn in this world. Our souls are ‘second chances’, here to accomplish and complete the souls’ unfulfilled mission.

 

There are countless other second chances that have been and in the future will be.

 

G-d commands that any person who was unable to bring the Paschal offering on Pesach, that a second opportunity to bring the offering will be made available on Pesach Sheni. One is not to think that the chance has elapsed or lost, it is not too late. The offering would be brought late, but better than never.

 

G-d is telling us, if we err, if there are mistakes in our lives, do not give up hope. There is a form of relief. G-D’s love and compassion in allowing us second chances, is not to be taken for granted. We must act. We must do. We must rectify. We must progress.

 

One may be afforded a second chance over another. A person may be given an additional opportunity to prove themselves in some form or manner. In contrast, one may not be given an instance of showing their true colours, through additional opportunities and ‘second’ chances. But, that is life my dear friends. G-d works in mysterious ways.

 

So, today being the Second Passover in Hebrew Pesach Sheni, a day in which we were recipients of a second chance, should give us the strength and faith to receive our ‘third chance’, the rebuilding of the third Temple in Jerusalem.

 

G-d truly does love us!   

Amish town and Philadelphia

I took a road-trip to Lancaster, Pennsylvania where the Amish have a compound of sorts. It was an interesting cultural experience to be exposed to the rituals, religiosity and customs of the Amish and Mennonites. 

They mainly use propane fueled devices for lighting and such. Many of the descendants who still live within the community practice and preserve their customs. They are a private sect and discourage many of the the modern world inventions and innovations.

I saw horse drawn buggies, old style breweries, flower mills and so on. I visualized as to how it was all those years back when the Amish was founded in Switzerland.

On the way back to New York, I stopped in Philadelphia for a bite to eat and meander about in the city where the declaration of independence was signed. 

Messi Affair

I know this will only be of interests to those soccer/football fans out there, but the Champions League final on the 27th of May 2009 in Rome, now has its combatants. Manchester United, the reigning champions from last year will take on Spanish giants, Barcelona FC. 

It is going to be a Messi affair, mind the pun. 

(Lionel Messi, is a Barcelona Player)

Cheap shots

Thursday nights call for celebrations - so being my first back in NYC in a month, It was organised to attend a bar in the East Village called 'Cheap Shots'. 

We are happily going about drinking, yapping, socialising etc. I bought a pitcher of beer and I stress that it was 'our' pitcher. I had placed the pitcher, half full, down on the table beside me whilst we consumed the beer that had already been poured. When the cups needed refills I turned to the pitcher and it was proudly sitting there empty. On the opposite side of the table, sat a Saadam Hussein lookalike, not part of our party drinking my beer. 

I call that a cheap shot.

Sebastian's Neo Bulgarian Pasta

So for dinner tonight I had pasta, I improvised.

Rotini Pasta
Tomato Paste
Crushed garlic
Basil
Parsley 
Salt
Black Pepper
Grape-seed oil or Margarine 

Black olives (optional)

Bon Appetit

Springing into May

Spring has arrived in the northern hemisphere, as we are about to enter the month of May. April and its happenings, its stories and adventures is a part of history. I was in Israel for most of April, where I spent Passover with my siblings Laya, her family and my sister Chaya in Jerusalem. I thank them and my cousin Daniel for their generous hospitality. I had an incredible and meaningful festival and the memories and moments shared will remain with me forever.  

Israel is an astonishing place. It has created a modern and technologically advanced society and communities in its short yet vibrant existence. It is still growing and evolving in its tiny geographic area in the Middle East whilst it simultaneously defends itself from its oppressors. I was fortunate enough to attend the blessing of the sun at the Western Wall in Jerusalem – a once in 28-year ritual. Being amongst 50 odd (yes odd and 50,000) thousand people and heralding in the new cycle was simply extraordinary. Additionally, being pushed and shoved and metaphorically ‘riding the spiritual waves’ amongst the Israelis in the crowd is definitely something memorable and is a souvenir I can always reminisce upon. Passover was holy and ritualistic, but it always is. Only this year the added holiness and different customs of Passover in Israel was apparent and genuine. As it says, may we next year be In Jerusalem (please drink to that).

From one adventure to the next I proceed and back to New York for the spring into summer. The season where less is worn and this is not only due to the economic crisis. It is a time where the sun shines on those longer summer days. The heat intensifies in the humidity of the New York atmosphere. It would be apt, that in the summer, when the weather is brighter the global fiscal economic mess could rebound, recover and like the boomerang, return.

Time will tell.

April has been an interesting month, as Obama progresses to 100 days in office. Some say, that is the only progression that he has made. Passover celebrates the freedom of the Israelites from bondage in Egypt. Captain Richard Phillips of the Shipping Vessel ‘Maersk Alabama’ also had reason to be thankful as he was freed from captivity at the hands of modern day Somali pirates in the Indian Ocean. And the piracy continues as captains declare Mayday.

So after minding the gap in London, even after a few beers I am back in New York. Temperatures are rising as is unemployment, but an optimist I’ll remain.

I thought I would share some brief reflections on my living abroad. I have been blessed with having the opportunity to hop around different communities and environments to watch and observe as to how things unfold elsewhere.  One must not only know their ‘local’ but is important to branch out and have a taste of the ‘others’. So keep on exploring your outer and inner, spread outwards but remember what is inwards but keep your privacy by regulating your publicity.

 I wish you a happy spring, summer; autumn (fall) or winter wherever you may be and may we only hear good tidings and dream sweetly into the next chapter.

London

I minded the gap in London. Now I am NYC bound.

April and Passover with the Sabra

As I write, Israel is gearing up for its 61st anniversary as a sovereign state. Indeed Israel is in a league of its with their self made rules, that go hand in hand with their self made help. I congratulate the country on reaching another milestone in their existence and live in hope that the holy land stays intact and safe from all harm.

I was fortunate enough to spend the festival of Passover in Israel. I thank my sister and her family for all the festive related activities and more. I truly had a fabulous time, some spent with the family, some at the various beaches up and down the Israeli coast and some in a mix of drinking spots scattered about this majestic country. 

I was able to link up with old friends (not all) and I made new friends along the way. I ventured out to the markets and bazaars of Jerusalem, Tel- Aviv and Jaffa. I travelled the highways (this is what ACDC mean in their hit ‘Highway to Hell’) from Jerusalem to Zichron Yaakov, Tel Aviv to Hertzaliya and some more. I saw the beauty of a country, so green and rich in colour, yet with grey clouds of uncertainty hovering above. I once again witnessed Israeli beach culture in Tel Aviv. I saw the young and old play paddleball, the tanned man walking about yelling (selling) ‘Artik’ (iced beverages of some sort). It really has to be seen to be believed, or maybe not. I was introduced to the small yuppie suburb Neve Tzedek in Tel Aviv. It is a gorgeous little neighbourhood with cafes, boutique shopping and art galleries. I drank beer and bantered with friends on Ben Yehuda St close to the Tel Aviv port. I lunched with Sigmund’s, a small café/kiosk in Rechavia Jerusalem. Last but not least, I meandered about in the streets of Jerusalem, both in the new and old city. I prayed at the Western Wall for the Western World.

Israel is unique, not only due to its holiness and rich history but also because of its citizens and their habits and mannerisms. The Sabra (one born in Israel) is apparently called this due to their rough exterior yet sweet interior. Seldom did I see the latter. They create new meanings to various norms of human culture and nature. In fact, they have created their own ‘constitution’ of life, without creating one. In short, Israelis are loved and hated, admired and despised. Israel is on the forefront of many of the latest technological advances of the modern world; they keep up with the latest inventions and modern technology that the world has to offer. However its taste of fashion needs a substantial overhaul.

There are no words - you have just got to love it.

That is just some of my trip, a truly exhilarating, fantastic and wonderful adventure. 

There is more to be told, but I’ll let the mind wander, wonder and imagine.

I leave off with wishing and congratulating Israel on 61 years and more. I remember the lost and fallen soldiers who fought for their country to make dreams come true. I pray for its future welfare.

Visit Israel and show your support. Wish Israel happy anniversary and confirm its existence. Pray for Israel and preserve its survival.

Bumper sticker

I saw a bumper sticker on an Israeli street today " Well behaved women rarely make History".

Discuss.

Sigmund's meeting place - Mifgash Zigmundim

In Rechavia a suburb in Jerusalem I found a great little coffee house / soup bar / cafe called Sigmund's meeting place (in hebrew Mifgash Zigmundim, the Z must be used when translating it in Hebrew to give full effect). The owner inspired by the thinker and well known psychiatrist Sigmund Shlomo Freud and apparently a Yementite Jew called 'Ziggy" . They serve some great Middle Eastern dishes, soups, sandwiches, salads and have beer on tap and other alcoholic beverages and coffee.

The cafe looks like a bubble, it is a free standing construction on the corner of Azza and Ha-Ari Streets (opposite Metudela). 

For a little read up on the Cafe here is the link. It may be a little outdated.

http://azrielcohen.com/inc/sigmunds.html?keepThis=true&TB_iframe=true&height=500&width=400

Neve Tzedek - Oasis of Justice

Today I travelled to the Tel Aviv neighborhood 'Neve Tzedek' (translated 'Oasis of Justice). It is a small suburb tucked away in the southern part of Tel Aviv. Narrow streets lined with boutique stores (mainly women's clothing) coffee houses/cafes, bars, mini art galleries and unique jewelry stores can be found. 

The streets are charming, delightful and picturesque. The neighborhood offers a sense of fashion, style, eateries and even that end of the day 'spirit'. It offers serenity and peace in a city of noise, hustle and bustle and attitude. 

Go and check it out. The main street is called Shabazi

Looking brighter

Citigroup post some refreshing and positive economic figures in their latest accounting adjustment- finally some sort of a profit. So the economy is looking brighter. I just await the media to downplay the profit and turn the news into some negative issue. I'll stay positive and optimistic and watch in glee as the economy regroups, rebounds and replenishes.

Stay tuned. 

The Loud and Promised land

David Brooks, New York Times writer sums up the loud and promised land. Great article.

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/17/opinion/17brooks.html?_r=2

You say you want a revolution

John Lennon (musical and lyrical genius)  wrote those words, which appear in the title, for the song 'Revolution'. It was 1968 and it was politically inclined. It is sad and tragic that politics and bureaucracy have a stronghold on world matters. A tragedy of the highest proportions. 

Mayhem is seen in Thailand as protestors clash with Army and police against the Thai embattled government. Close by, yet in a league of their own, Pakistan battles its existence and apparently without government intervention, a collapse of the nation is forthcoming.

Obama, called for change in his successful political campaign. They are some very lovely words. Don't we all want some change? 

More action = less dissatisfaction, more talk = more balk.

Tel Aviv Beach Culture

I went beaching to Tel Aviv (located on the Mediterranean Sea) on Friday. It was sunny and divine. The water clear and refreshing. The sand soft and smooth. The atmosphere fun and exciting. It was amusing to see Israeli beach culture. The culture is borrowed or better, pilfered from its neighboring European counterparts, namely, Italy and Greece. There is a DJ who spins tunes, whilst Beach-maids and there male equivalents tend to the needs of the beach-goers. The proverbial Israeli- tanned walks about collecting money for the use of the beach chairs and recliners.

However the beach culture revolves around the game called 'Matkot', loosely translated as beach paddleball. I have heard that this game is Israel's unofficial national sport. Both the young and old, the male and female and whomever else partake in this quasi tennis/badminton /squash game. 

Now I must mention the Israeli interpretation of a swimsuit. Oh right, there isn't one. Go to an Israeli beach and you will spot the bather in his skimpy briefs.

Culture.  You gotta love it.

 

I saw the Sun

Every 28 years we bless the sun as it completes its vernal equinox. We bless the sun and in turn bless G-d for creating such a wonderful place to live in. Earth, equipped with the sun and the moon serve a vital aspect of our existence. 

So bless the sun that vegetates our needs , produces spectacular sunrises and sunsets, gives sunlight and warmth. 

I attended the blessing of the sun ceremony at the Western Wall in Jerusalem earlier this morning - 8 April 2009. There was a large crowd in attendance on a gorgeous, stunning and picturesque morning. The crowd blessed the sun in unison for its input within our living world and for illuminating our surroundings and life. The crowd together thanked G-d for the creation of the Sun and G-D's continued support of all creations and beings.

I saw the Sun

Cat in a plane

I will write in further elaboration but I thought I must mention that whilst boarding my flight to Israel on Wednesday, April 1 2009 I witnessed 2 passengers board the ELAL Tel Aviv bound flight with Pussy cats as their hand luggage. 

This was not an April fools joke.

Only In Israel - or more correctly en route to israel. 

Arrival

I have arrived in Israel in preparation for the festival of Passover. It is great to be back in a country which has this aura of peace and hope, yet continues to fight its battles.

Have a great weekend. 

The March to April

Spring has sprung here in New York as the March continues on into April 2009 for the festive month of Passover and Easter. Some of us will feast in the holy city of Jerusalem; others will enjoy the picturesque scenery of stunning Sydney whilst others will brave it out in the temperamental weather of Toronto. Of course, there is one man who will celebrate Passover from the Metropolitan Correctional Center in Manhattan as he awaits sentencing for his involvement in a mass Ponzi scheme.  Surely, he will be asking, ‘why is this night different from all other nights’?

Life is grand, I have made some progress in gaining employment and things look bright. The economic instability and rough market have made things tougher but one must hustle and scurry about in order to attain ones dreams.

The month of March has come and gone, but not without joyous times and celebrations. I wish my cousin Daniel congratulations on his recent engagement to Elana. May your lives be filled with much joy, love and happiness. I wish the families the same. Once again, my lovely sister Fraydie visited me from Aspen for the engagement party and we had a lovely time celebrating with the present and new families.

Idan Raichel, the eclectic Israeli musician visited New York and we danced and sang in unity. With a range of musicians from around the world including Israel, Morocco, Uruguay and an Ethiopian born in a Sudan refugee camp they played some melodious and richly infused music in Hebrew, Arabic, Spanish and Amharic.

Over March, facebook, the networking site got a facelift and now has a new appearance. This I believe is not one of Obama’s new changes. Time will tell.  I have read that a new Bill is to be introduced into the senate to allow for travel to Cuba. It is 47 years since diplomatic relations were severed between Communist Cuba and Opportunist America. This may be one of Obama’s new changes.

Finally the weather has improved and warmer temperatures greet the Wall Street financier in Manhattan and the artist in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. The outdoor gardens are being opened, as the spring sun is slowly unleashed from its cage.  Moods changes with seasons, we live in hope that somehow some of the promised changes will also be evident.

I travel to Israel for Passover to celebrate the liberation of the Israelites from oppressive slavery in Egypt. I bless one and all with a happy, healthy and peaceful festival, wherever you find yourself. If you happen to find yourself in Israel, be no stranger and contact me. As some of you may know, I like to indulge in more than 4 cups of wine.

This is not an April Fools joke.

Peace out

Shlomy

Glass shops and coffee

I stumbled across a great little coffee house in Crown Heights/Prospect Heights in Brooklyn. 

Additionally they make a great coffee. 

766 Classon Avenue near Sterling Place 'Glass Shop' near the 2,3 subway at Eastern Parkway Brooklyn Museum. 

Truth

Truth is an important aspect of life. It is human nature and a part of mankind. We are not perfect beings, so does this mean we should not strive for perfection, if it is not obtainable? 

I  am not sure. What I do know is that today I witnessed a high profile member of a community punished for not disclosing the truth over a petty matter. It was the lies he told that brought his undoing and jail sentence. High ranking officials are meant to be role models for the community and when their role is abused and disgraced even by some misdemeanor, they must suffer the consequences. 

No one escapes justice.

He made-off with money.

Judge Chin asked Mr Madoff, “How do you now plead,” guilty or not guilty? “Guilty,” Mr. Madoff responded. Bernard Madoff, the disgraced Wall St financier has done the right thing at last, and has spared time, effort and money by pleading guilty to 11 counts of mass fraud, thereby proceeding directly to sentencing in June later this year. Today, the 12^th of March 2009, Bernie Madoff confirmed his contrition and remorse as he established and admitted to orchestrating a large ponzi scheme. The scheme targeted a range of innocent investors, resulting in theft and money laundering.

I thought it only would be reasonable, to raise issue and discuss the wrongdoing of Madoff, once he was either convicted of the crime or his admission to it. The latter prevailed and the public need not endure a costly and complex criminal trial.

I am no expert as to the technicalities, illegalities and particularity of the scheme that Madoff created, developed and operated. Therefore, I will not discuss the specifics involved within the scheme. However, it would be remiss of me not to mention the disgrace, deceit and pure evil caused by the scheme. Madoff preyed upon the private investor, the public and those charitable organizations. He led a life of greed and unjustified material pursuit. Ethics and morals were not a part of his vocabulary. He maimed and injured many investors. He crippled the soul of Wall Street. The once highly regarded esteemed financier has turned villain.

There are lessons and important messages that should be disseminated so as to act as a deterrent for any future ‘someone’ who intends on using dishonesty, deceit and falsehood as tools in their life. Madoff has ruined his personal life, his family’s and the countless investors who were convinced into investing. A large prison sentence seems most probable, and questions arise as to how effective life incarceration will be. But let this be a clear message that life is to be lived by the law and not vicariously through it. Morality and ethics are of vital importance in ensuring stability and security in the world. Trust and honesty rather than fabrication and lies are most important for preserving human relationships and subsequently, in all that life has to offer.

Bernard made-off with a vast amount of money, trust and respect. We have to ensure that it does not occur again. Respect life and abide by the law, respect the world and share your righteousness.

Please feel free to suggest anything or opine on the unfolding events.