Many of you seem to enjoy my musical references describing each paragraph, so I have included them again this week and added the musical source at the end of the page to test your knowledge.

Hope you enjoy…

Heros with French President Hollande

Clean interior of Old Michigan Central Station

New Orleans

As the volume increases of those scary childhood words, “Back to School”, wouldn’t it be nice if the much talked about Core Curriculum included courses to Teach Peace, Parenthood and other important adult life lessons. But we are one step behind since, this school year, attracting quality teachers for our overcrowded schools is stressed to the limit. Our nation is in the midst of a Teacher Shortage due to the layoffs during the 2008 recession. And the equation of High Student Loans and Low Teacher Pay complicates efforts in hiring qualified people for one of the most important jobs of our society. http://tinyurl.com/plqspjy

This humorous video is…“Dedicated to the amazing teachers who take care of our kids all year and don’t make enough money”. Enjoy (last year’s) back to school hip-hop rap by the (oh so) adorable Holderness Family

Emagine if Peace Courses were a requirement for international curricula. Take note, United Nations, on a truly meaningful mission for your next agenda.  Terror attacks like the ones Thailand experienced this week could be obsolete, but sadly, 20 people died and over 100 were injured.  Those who really need a lesson in respect and understanding are the crazies connected to Daesh (they like to be called Islamic State, so I never refer to them by their prefered name). Daesh has taken control of 3/4 of Syria including a famous ancient city housing valuable artifacts and antiquities. The renowned 82 year old archeologist, Khaled al-Asaad, “held the key” to its treasures and for keeping this info from the evil monsters, he was beheaded, mutilated and displayed for other “traitors” to see.http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/aug/18/isis-beheads-archaeologist-syria

How can any human being act so inhumanely?  Who is teaching these evil lessons and why are young westerners joining their forces? This story of 3 young UK girls just confounds me: http://tinyurl.com/DaeshLureGirls.  Yet while a handful of brainwashed souls are headed to Syria, 6.5 million Syrians have been displaced while 3 million are refugees in neighboring countries, many headed to Europe. Will those much needed Lesson of Peace commence in our lifetime or even in this millennium?  On a lighter connected note,

I’m not sure if any of you are watching the new HBO show, The Brink (with Tim Robbins and Jack Black), but it is funny, irreverant and satariclly mirrors the crazy world we live in. http://www.hbo.com/the-brink

This week’s update on the Iran deal includes a partner for Schumer and some inspection news.  Senator Robert Menendez joined the now Pack of Two Democratic Senators to oppose the Iran deal.  The congress is several weeks away from their vote with many legislators still seriously conflicted with their choice.  Again, much thanks to their efforts in trying to make the right decision for this seemingly “lose, lose” situation.  The other news is that supposedly Iran will self-inspect one of their sites though the accuracy of this concern and extent (of self inspection) needs more investigation. Either way, the big question is can we truly trust Iran…?

International bias, anti-semitism, anti-Israel (however it’s labeled), displayed its evil side this week as the organizers of the Spanish Music Festival, Rototom Sunsplash, cancelled (Jewish) Reggae superstar, Matisyahu from its lineup because he wouldn’t sign a political BDS (Boycott, Divestment, Sanction) statement against Israel. The BDS movement, withRoger Waters as its lighting rod, has been successful at persuading (some) artist to boycott Israeli stages, but this is their first attempt at extending their reach to a global stage. Matisyahu was singled out because he is Jewish (he’s not Israeli) as no other artist was asked to sign a statement. Though some musicians of the festival also wanted him off the stage since he “represents” Israel because he is Jewish and supports the country. Their attempt failed as the Spanish Government loudly objected and forced the festival organizers to apologize and re-invite Matisyahu back. No word yet whether he will accept.  By the way, bravo to the many performers who don’t succumb to the BDS pressure, like Kanye West(performing in Tel Aviv this month), Paul McCartney, Billy Joel, Rihanna, Alicia Keys, Madonna, Lady Gaga, Red Hot Chilli Pepers and Tom Jones.  But there are still some who refuse to play and abide by the boycott.  They include Elvis Costello (though his wife Diana Krall did play there), Jon Bon Jovi, Annie Lennox and Stevie Wonder. The BDS movement accuses Israel of being an apartheid state as seen in this Spanish poster below. Many South Africans have come to Israel’s defense to pronounce that she is far from an apartheid state and proclaiming it diminishes the true meaning of apartheid and the struggles that South Africa endured.  As mentioned many times in these messages, Israel is flawed (like all nations) but clearly more democratic than most as her Arab population is represented in all streams of society included her Supreme Court.

Speaking of one of my favorite topics, music, have you ever tried to list the top 100 songwriters of all time? Who do you think is # 1, think Robert Zimmerman.  Where do Paul and John fit?  Who made the top 10 list? Smokey, Stevie, Carole… If this info interests you, here is the complete Rolling Stone list with commentary. I first scrolled to the bottom of the list to view the top 10 and cruised past Taylor Swift at spot 97. Where do your favorite artist rank? Hope you enjoy this comprehensive (though debatable) compilation.

“You are the apple of my eye…” Stevie Wonder

Though Hannan is an avid/amature guitarist, our daughter, Liat, has taken her musical banjo/guitar skills one step further and formed a new band, with friend, Kyle McGonegle, called Lake Toba which they describe as a lyrical old-timey duo. Here are a few of their songs:

Near the year anniversary of the pivotal Ferguson incident that brought Black Lives Matter to the forefront of our bias county, is not the time for the creative and provocative Key and Peeleto end their satirical outlook on our flawed society. Early next month, the Key & Peele show will culminate its 3rd and final season on the Comedy Network.  Here is one of their last skits; a provocative view of our bias society. Beware, it is uncensored: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rg58d8opQKA

As our Jewish New Year of Rosh Hashana approaches, I thought it would be helpful to include this comedical yet inspirational and instructional demonstration of a genuine Balabusta (cousin to Zero Mostel) preparing Matzah Soup for a sweet Italian foodie, Mo Rocca.

On Aug. 26th, we remember son (of Randy and Diane), brother (of Amanda and Sam), grandson and dear friend to many, George A. Orley z”l on the two year anniversary of his passing. May his soul and spirit continue to give us strength in our efforts at improving our world.

Travelling is wonderful (especially to Israel) but coming home is always so sweet. Much has happened during my two week writing sabbatical…A Wing Flap was discovered, Jon Stewartbid farewell, Jonathan Pollard got a break, Cecil was killed,Jewish/Israeli terrorist killed innocent lives, Planned Parenthood and Voting Rights are (again) under attacked and the GOP candidates debated their popularity. With all this news to catch up on, you might need to pace yourself while reading this week’s email.

The big news that continues to dominate our consciousness

is the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, better known as the Iran Deal. Whether you are For or Against the deal, the bottom line goal for all is a less threatening Iran and a more peaceful future. Most would agree it is a flawed plan but is it better than no deal at all?  For several years, Iran, an arch enemy of Israel, regional countries and western democracies (especially the US) has been scheming to build a nuclear bomb. Analysts have been tracking their imminent progress which led to global “crippling” sanctions that apparently didn’t stall their nuclear efforts.  So, a diplomatic attempt was tried and a deal was blessed by the eager partnering countries (France, Germany, UK, China & Russia) plus the UN and now the two final “partners” (US and Iran) need to christen the deal. The US Congress will most likely vote against the deal on Sept. 17th, and unless there is a super majority, the President will veto the vote and the Deal will be done, of course assuming, the final “partner” Iran signs on the dotted line. The Deal’s merits are heavily debated as many feel it didn’t go far enough since it will allow Iran to obtain a nuclear bomb in 10-15 years while their bank accounts will be immediately flushed with $150 billion, their military arsenal will be boasted, sanctions will be lifted and their acceptance into the global trade fold will be welcomed. This parody of an Iranian negotiator “comedically” illustrates the concerns of many: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1hIz_vkZH5k  and for a 2nd visual, check out Dennis Prager’s take on the dilemma: http://www.prageruniversity.com/Political-Science/The-Iran-Nuclear-Deal.html#.VckabyZVhBd  And, lastly, here is a perspective of an Iranian, who references a 100,000 person Iranian demonstration in Paris that warns of the true intent of the current Iranian leadership.

Researching and Soul Searching have consumed our legislators as they publicly approve or vow to vote against the deal. Most, if not all, Republicans will vote against the deal. The big news last week was (the prominent Democratic) Senator Chuck Schumer‘s announcement against the deal. He carefully studied the material, attended classified briefings and did not let “pressure, politics or party” influence his decision.  Whichever side you are on is frankly irrelevant. Since the partnering countries and the UN have already ratified the deal, arguing your position won’t change the situation we must face that in the near future (even if or in spite of Congress’ disapproval), Iran will need extensive scrutiny which means Israel will need extra military defenses. Israel is strong and smart and will prevail with the help of her (continued) best friend, the United States.  We must sustain our support of our representatives on both sides of the isle, regardless of their vote. Yes, it is an important vote, but it is one of many we elect them to debate. We cannot alienate our leaders over this extremely conflicting issue, who, on both sides hope for a more peaceful world. We must be united to deal with the future. Ambassador Dan Shapiro is correct when he urges Israel (Bibi) to stop arguing and start negotiating protective cooperation with the United States. http://www.timesofisrael.com/us-envoy-netanyahu-wont-talk-about-day-after-deal/

And speaking of Senator Chuck Schumer, this will be my last invitation to support Chuck for all his efforts as a highly respected and influential legislator, by attending the fundraiser we are hosting in our home this Tuesday Aug. 18th.  Please email me and I’ll give you all the details.

Senator Schumer was a regular guest on Jon Stewart’s Daily Show with his recent appearance just a few weeks ago to expose Jon’s “hidden” nationality.  Though Jon pretends to have disguised his Jewish identity, the real Jonathan Stuart Leibowitz is revealed in this clip:

And for those of you who just can’t get enough of Jon Stewart, here is the Forward’s top 18 Jewish segments:

But for all his shtick, Jon Stewart was a stalwart supporter of progressive thought and with humor and wisdom he exposed the world’s atrocities and newsworthy moments while entertaining and educating an audience who may never have paid attention to the vital issue of the day. He stuck to his values and shared opinions that weren’t always to my liking, however his consistency and brilliance was always respected. He was a catalyst to the brightest talent and helped jumpstart their careers.  Stephen Colbert expresses his (and all of our) appreciation for enlightening our lives for the last 16 years.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Mh7WICqrxI

Trump: http://www.nydailynews.com/news/politics/pics-rump-adult-sons-hunting-game-africa-resurface-article-1.2308107

Jimmy John: http://www.businessinsider.com/jimmy-johns-ceo-under-fire-for-alleged-hunting-photos-2015-8

Another lioness, Cecile Richards, is roaring with protection over the continued attacks against Planned Parenthood. Ignorance and closed mindedness continue to threathen the lifesaving and vital work of PP.  Fools who think eliminating legal abortions and birth control information (plus women’s health screenings) will benefit our society have got their heads stuck somewhere unseamly. Decreasing abortion will only increase dangerous desperate attempts.  Nearly 1 in 3 women will have at least one abortion in their lifetime and feel motherhood should be voluntary. This straight forward NYTimes article speaks volumes about the need for more of these women to speak up. http://tinyurl.com/NYTimePParticle

The truth is spoken in this Funny or Die parody video:

And who says it better than, Amy Schumer. The end of her message brings it all to “life”:

And bravo to Mark Zuckerberg for donating nearly a Billion Dollars (in Facebook stock) to charities which fund Planned Parenthood: http://samuel-warde.com/2014/02/zuckerberg-donates-992-million-charity-funds-planned-parenthood/

100 Miles of River through 3 States have been polluted by 3 Million tons of toxic waste that got mistakenly dumped into theAnimas River last week. Our government’s agency, the EPA (established to protect the environment) was the culprit to the accident while it was working in the inactive gold mine.

Before and after shots of the Animas River

…to the continent of Africa as it celebrates a full year, absent of a single Polio outbreak.
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/08/12/health/a-milestone-in-africa-one-year-without-a-case-of-polio.html?_r=0

Though there is much more news of the week to discuss (the Clean Power Plan, Our Teacher Shortage, China industrial warehouse blast, Syrian refugees,…) I have run out of time and room and will pick up where I left off next Friday. By the way, if you are wondering where all the political news is… I have quarantined it to the Political Section below. For now, I wish you and your loved ones a Sweet and Peaceful Shabbat Shalom,

Lisa

In honor of August and Carole King’s recent Kennedy Center Honor announcement, please enjoy this song “First Day in August” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xHAnMd24pd4