Howdy friends! We can hardly believe we’re winding down 2023 already. What a year it’s been. So much growth, goals met, big and small changes and a war we wish were over, post-victory.
The proposal/engagement videos coming out of Israel keep us smiling. Proof we will prevail. Love wins. Special mazel tov to singer Dovid Pearlman on his engagement. May all couples build deeply connected homes.
Music has been especially therapeutic these past few months. Singer Darren Glick has been in Israel a few months now, giving and getting chizuk through song and more. A variety of heartfelt music is being produced, thankfully, in all languages, genres and coming from and for all ages and backgrounds.
Eli Herzlich and Ami Cohen’s beautiful “Refuah Medley” is backed by a full orchestra. “We’re Still Here (Am Yisrael Chai),” by the Maccabeats a capella experts, validates the emes that we are still here and always will be. Benny Friedman’s “We Are With You” supports rebbes and teachers. It’s so important to have transparent relationships with role models & mentors. New Jersey native Rabbi Efrem Goldberg is one of ours who lead by example.
We enjoy everything Eli Levin puts out and “Mi Sheberach L’tzahal,” timely re-visited, is a chart-topper in our estimation. “Chamisha Kolos” is a special song by Motty Atias and including Shaya Gross and Ari Samet. Atias wrote it on behalf of his sister’s wedding, which already warmed my heart. The blend of voices and music is top-notch.
“Anushim Kemaluchim,” by Motty Ilowitz, is a leibidik song and music video displaying many kindnesses performed on behalf of others. Chesed is the glue which energizes our distressed Klal Yisrael these days. Rabbi Goldberg speaks a lot about mental health, normalizing tears, concerns and grief both publicly and privately. We chaplains are in full demand, helping on the ground in Israel and on U.S. soil. Tying tzitzit was meaningful for us, as well as other ways we offer support to Israel. Action is what empowers us forward.
Teaneck’s own entertainer Chaim Kiss has shared his visits to Israel for folks everywhere to experience. My son Joey Newcomb and colleagues like Avraham Fried, Benny Friedman, Mordechai Shapiro and others have been busy with concerts, events and farbrengen. Joey’s “Carpool Kumzitz” with Simcha Leiner and Friedman, aka Brother Benny, on behalf of the Amudim organization, is sure to bring a laugh.
Our rabbis and singers show us by example to never underestimate the power of a hug. Grieving together while retaining hope is truly healing. Hugging those in our homes is most important. The more couples and families create an unbreakable team inside and out, the more fortified our communities become.
77 WABC talk radio has broadcast 24/7 during the holiday season in order that nobody who is or feels alone, be alone. I have heard callers say they are lonely and find renewed comfort as hosts offer connection.
We know, as long-time Jewish radio broadcasters, how important music and talk radio can be. We always have innovative projects on the burner, including a radiothon in the works on behalf of a great cause.
Legendary Jerry Seinfeld’s recent trip to Israel has provided encouragement to our soldiers, hostage families and folks both in Israel and the U.S. Many rabbis, dignitaries and all faith leaders have joined suit.
Newcomb’s musical Shabbos in Highland Park/Edison may have left an indelible mark LOL. Ami Avraham, who we call “The People’s Mayor,” is about to receive a well-deserved honor. Ask him about it.
As we continue to travel through New York, New Jersey and Florida, we want to thank all of our readers, listeners and Jewish Link family. We are grateful for all the feedback, correspondence, friendship and camaraderie. Wishing all an empowered 2024 with good health and shared victory in Israel and an end to hostility here in the good ole’ USA as well. May clarity reign. Am Yisrael Chai Thank you Hashem!
Al and Sarah (Newcomb) Gordon own and operate 1640 WJPR, a unique radio station in hybrid format out of Highland Park/Edison and south Florida. Al has been dazzling radioland with his voice and personality for decades. Sarah, a certified chaplain, columnist, realtor and therapeutic healer is new to radio and new to the Gordon household. Together they hope to blaze a unique trail utilizing their special koach impacting their children, grandchildren, community, many fans and all others as intended from above, one song and one smile at a time. #TYH Nation YOU matter! They can be reached at [email protected].
