Rosh Chodesh Adar/Purim is in the air. Wowee. Thank You Hashem Nation has put out a couple of timely tunes: “Purim All Year,” a leibidig remix with DJ Farbreng, and “Yismach Moshe,” a stunning video starring Reb Yossi Hecht aka “The Grateful Warriors,” Choson—Mazel tov!
Rabbi Efrem Goldberg described the “darkness” in recent parshios as the inability of people to truly see each other: a spiritual ailment. People deserve to be seen and heard in real time, not social media fairytale land. Real live radio like ours, unlike other types of programs, welcomes folks to join “on-air” to request, dedicate and shout out. The NYC Guardian Angels founder answers callers live on radio with: “Your turn to be heard.” Please join us. We welcome and encourage listeners to make their radio debut.
We’ve got a variety of great new music to share. Many folks are using the creative expression of music to share their life’s journey. We’re seeing this across the board and in many languages. R’ Nachman Seltzer has a great song, “It’s About the Yomi.” Simcha Leiner’s “Eyes of Glass” on behalf of Amudim is very deep and meaningful. The important message of “being yourself” cannot be underestimated. Our world needs genuine authenticity and humility, where words and actions align, not counterfeit, including off-screen. R’ Klatzko and Pinny Schachter are a dynamic duo with their new song, “Ki Hashem.” Tali Yess’ “Keepers of the Faith” offers hope, always. DJ Al pointed out “Flickering Flame” by Takshivu, an English song on personal progress. As folks who value moving forward in life, we take special interest in spreading empowering messages of those choosing to advance beyond the past.
While our son Joey Newcomb is running around Miami in a convertible car, among other places, his mission is to bring people joy with a guitar in his hand and a song in his heart. His stance is welcoming. DJ Al and I were in Shoprite, where a senior citizen stopped me saying, “It’s so nice to see smiling people.” She caught me singing, as we admittedly do often, even on grocery outings. She said we made her day.
Kindness is available 24/7, double portion on Shabbos. Many people are on their own or feel alone. A smile, message or invitation can make a difference in someone’s life. Of course at times we must restrict access from intruders and bullies. The ability to discern is priceless, as are helpers who filter contact.
Timeless Purim medleys including classic kids music like the stuff my kids grew up listening to will never disappoint. We enjoy playing those songs on the radio seasonally and beyond. My son now shares his own renditions to the pleasure of the original artists. Abie Rotenberg takes great pride in Joey’s “covers” of his songs. Micha Gamerman has a great Purim mix. Gad Elbaz’s song “Achashverosh” is spirited. I’ve loved “Esther’s Prayer” by Safam since my husband first played it for me during our courtship.
Music enhances many occasions. We attended a laser light show at a planetarium graced with Beatles music. Networking events, retreats, farbrengen and certainly Shabbos and Yom Tov come to life through song. Some say the Superbowl was a concert with a ballgame in the middle, LOL. Upbeat music as well as ballads of meaning all have their place.
Sadly a very young special soul was lost in Boca Raton. Leadership like we have never seen before stepped up towards helping the family and an entire community grieve and heal together. We will always remember Esther Tehilla bas Rav Gavriel Pinchos.
May klal Yisroel share simchas and abundant yoy this Adar! Mi Kiamcha Yisroel. Thank you Hashem!
Al & Sarah (Newcomb) Gordon own and operate 1640 WJPR, a unique radio station in hybrid format out of Highland Park/Edison. Al has been dazzling Radioland with his voice and personality for decades. Sarah, a writer, 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].
