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Stop, Smell the Roses and Read the Street Signs

In my youth, I didn’t pay much attention to street names. Francis Lewis Boulevard was just a street I crossed to get a slice of Scotty’s Pizza in Queens. The thought of Francis Lewis as a signer of the Declaration of Independence never crossed my mind. Street names were simply markers, not windows into history.

More recently, while visiting my son in Pinecrest, Florida, I passed Agent Jerry Dove Drive. Being near Miami, I assumed it must honor a talent agent—perhaps someone famous for landing the Kardashians a Netflix series. I got it wrong, and spectacularly so.

Street names like these are often more than just labels; they carry stories of heroism, history, or even humor. Let’s take a closer look at some streets with tales that deserve a second glance.

1. The Pinecrest Shootout Legacy: A Street Honoring Jerry Dove

In Pinecrest, Florida, Jerry Dove Drive honors FBI Special Agent Jerry Dove, who was killed in the infamous 1986 FBI Miami shootout. This tragic event unfolded when Dove and his partner, Benjamin Grogan, confronted two heavily armed bank robbers. Despite their bravery, both agents were fatally wounded in the intense gun battle. The incident revealed a critical flaw in FBI equipment: their .38 caliber revolvers and 9mm pistols were no match for the criminals’ firepower. This led to the adoption of more powerful firearms, including the .40 caliber handgun. The street name immortalizes Dove’s sacrifice and reminds us of the pivotal changes in law enforcement practices sparked by his bravery.

2. ZZyzx Road

Driving from Utah to San Diego along Interstate 15 is a journey through dramatic landscapes and shifting terrains. After leaving the red rock vistas of Utah and the towering mountains of Nevada, the road leads you into the stark, sun-soaked Mojave Desert in California. Passing landmarks like the desolate Ivanpah Valley and the striking silhouette of the Dumont Dunes, I found myself at a peculiar sign for Zzyzx Road, seemingly a random scramble of letters. I chuckled, imagining a San Bernardino County official’s toddler commandeering a keyboard to register the name. 

However, the real story of Zzyzx is even more outlandish. It was coined by Curtis Howe Springer in the 1940s as part of his attempt to brand a desert spa as “the last word in health,” both figuratively and alphabetically. The health claims were dubious, and Springer was eventually evicted for squatting on federal land. Today, Zzyzx Road leads to the Desert Studies Center, but it remains a quirky relic of America’s eccentric roadside history.

On my bucket list to visit

3. Chicken Dinner Road – Caldwell, Idaho

Yes, there’s really a Chicken Dinner Road in Idaho! The story goes that in the 1930s, a local woman named Laura Lamb served a delicious chicken dinner to Idaho Governor Ben Ross and used the opportunity to lobby for improvements to the dusty road near her home. Her charm and chicken evidently worked, as the road was soon paved—and the name stuck. It’s a quirky reminder of how good food can lead to progress.

4. Psycho Path – Traverse City, Michigan

Who says city planners don’t have a sense of humor? Psycho Path is a small, private road in Michigan that often makes lists of the funniest street names in the U.S. It’s not clear if it was intended as a joke, but its darkly comedic name has made it a local legend. Imagine telling someone that’s where you live!

5. Why Worry Lane – Rincon, Georgia

In a world filled with stress, Rincon, Georgia, offers a lighthearted reminder to take it easy with Why Worry Lane. This cheerful name brings a smile to locals and visitors alike, offering a small but meaningful encouragement to embrace life with a sense of humor.

6.  Ha-Ha Road (Columbus, Ohio)

• This name might seem like a joke, but “Ha-ha” refers to a design feature in 18th-century landscaping: a sunken fence meant to keep livestock out of gardens without obstructing the view. Its use here could relate to an old estate or a local in-joke.

7. This Ain’t It Road (Copperhill, Tennessee)

• This road was reportedly named after frustrated drivers searching for a destination who exclaimed, “This ain’t it!” Local legend has it that the road sign became a humorous way to confirm its misleading nature.

Concluding Thoughts

Whether it’s a heartfelt tribute to a hero, a name born out of culinary persuasion, or a pun that makes you laugh, street signs offer a surprising lens into our shared history and quirks. The next time you’re out for a walk or drive, take a moment to consider the story behind the street you’re on. Who knows? You might stumble across a tale as fascinating—or funny—as the street itself.

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Lessons from Puerperal Fever: Trust in Science Matters

The COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath eroded public trust in public health policies and institutional medicine. In their place, shamans, discredited pseudo-experts, and individuals without medical credentials have gained prominence, amplified by the reach of social media. Robert Kennedy Jr., a prominent anti-vaccine advocate, is positioned as a potential candidate for Cabinet Secretary of Health. History provides stark warnings about the dangers of rejecting sound scientific principles and the profound impact this can have on a nation’s health.

Puerperal fever, or childbed fever, was one of the leading causes of maternal death in the 18th and 19th centuries, claiming the lives of women shortly after childbirth. The tragedy of its widespread occurrence lies in the fact that the solution—basic hygiene—was discovered yet resisted by the medical establishment and society for decades. Two pivotal figures, Ignaz Semmelweis and Oliver Wendell Holmes, made significant contributions to combating this deadly condition, yet both faced resistance from a system unwilling to change.

Ignaz Semmelweis: The Savior of Mothers

In the mid-19th century, Ignaz Semmelweis was a Hungarian physician working at the Vienna General Hospital, which had two maternity clinics. He noticed a striking discrepancy: one clinic, staffed by physicians and medical students, had a much higher mortality rate from puerperal fever than the other, which was staffed by midwives.

Semmelweis hypothesized that physicians, who often conducted autopsies before delivering babies, were transferring infectious material to patients. In 1847, he introduced the practice of handwashing with chlorinated lime, which dramatically reduced mortality rates—from nearly 18% to less than 1%.

Despite his compelling results, Semmelweis faced intense opposition. The medical community, entrenched in tradition and resistant to criticism, dismissed his findings. Many doctors were insulted by the implication that their practices were contributing to patient deaths. In addition Hungary’s struggle for independence and its opposition to Habsburg rule in the mid-19th century created a sociopolitical backdrop that indirectly hindered the adoption of the hygienic practices advocated by Ignaz Semmelweis. Several factors contributed to this dynamic:

1. Political Turmoil and Distrust

  • The Hungarian Revolution of 1848–49 against Habsburg domination and the subsequent suppression by Austrian forces created widespread political instability. In such an environment, scientific advancements were often overshadowed by nationalistic and political concerns.
  • Semmelweis, though Hungarian, worked in Vienna under the Habsburg monarchy. This affiliation may have complicated the acceptance of his ideas in Hungary, where anything associated with Habsburg rule was met with skepticism.

2. Resource Constraints

  • The aftermath of the revolution left Hungary economically weakened and socially disorganized. Hospitals and medical institutions, already limited in resources, struggled to implement new practices that required infrastructure and consistent training, such as handwashing with chlorinated lime.

 Semmelweis’s inability to articulate his findings diplomatically, coupled with his increasingly combative demeanor, further alienated him from his peers. Tragically, he was institutionalized and died in 1865, long before his hand washing protocols gained acceptance.

Oliver Wendell Holmes: A Parallel in the United States

Around the same time, American physician Oliver Wendell Holmes was independently addressing puerperal fever. In 1843, he published “The Contagiousness of Puerperal Fever,” in which he argued that the disease was infectious and could be transmitted by physicians and nurses. Holmes emphasized the importance of hygiene and the need for strict protocols to prevent the spread of infection.

Holmes’s work was met with similar resistance. Many physicians rejected the idea that they could be responsible for spreading disease. Some accused him of undermining the reputation of the medical profession. Nevertheless, Holmes persisted, advocating for systemic changes that eventually influenced medical practices in the United States.

The Tragic Cost of Resistance

The refusal to accept Semmelweis’s and Holmes’s findings delayed the adoption of antiseptic techniques, leading to countless preventable deaths. Their experiences highlight a recurring theme in medical history: progress is often hindered by the reluctance of entrenched systems to embrace new ideas, especially when those ideas challenge the status quo.

Lessons for Modern Health Leadership

The story of puerperal fever, Semmelweis and Holmes  is a stark reminder of the cost of ignoring science. Today’s health crises—whether pandemics, chronic disease management, or antibiotic resistance—demand informed, expert leadership. When science is sidelined, history tells us lives are lost.

The U.S. must learn from the mistakes of the past and ensure that those tasked with safeguarding public health possess the qualifications and humility to respect evidence, embrace change, and prioritize the well-being of the population over personal or political agendas. Let’s not allow history to repeat itself.

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 From Venom to Vitality—The Remarkable Story of GLP-1 Agonists 

Medical breakthroughs often emerge from unexpected sources, but few are as extraordinary as the discovery of GLP-1 agonists, compounds derived from the venom of the Gila monster. These molecules have revolutionized the treatment of diabetes and obesity, offering patients life-changing therapies like semaglutide and tirzepatide. With 75% of adults and 50% of teens classified as overweight or obese, these medications hold significant potential to impact public health outcomes.

As a gastroenterologist, I’m profoundly inspired by the journey that led to this discovery. It’s a story of curiosity, collaboration, and the transformative power of nature. It also underscores the critical importance of exploring venomous species for medical research and utilizing advanced techniques like chromatography to uncover therapeutic compounds.  

The Gila Monster: A Surprising Source of Healing  

Native to the deserts of the American Southwest, the Gila monster is a slow-moving, venomous lizard known for its tenacious bite. While its venom evolved as a defense mechanism, scientists saw potential beyond its lethality. The venom contains exendin-4, a compound remarkably similar to GLP-1, a gut hormone that regulates blood sugar and appetite.  

GLP-1 plays a central role in metabolism, signaling the pancreas to release insulin and the brain to reduce hunger. This discovery was a turning point. By isolating and modifying the Gila monster’s exendin-4, researchers created the first GLP-1 receptor agonist, exenatide, paving the way for more advanced therapies like semaglutide and tirzepatide.  

Chromatography: Unlocking Nature’s Secrets  

The breakthrough required cutting-edge technology and meticulous research. Chromatography, a technique used to separate complex mixtures, was instrumental in analyzing the venom. Despite working with minuscule samples, scientists isolated and identified exendin-4 among a multitude of bioactive compounds.  

This success highlights the power of chromatography in venom research, enabling scientists to uncover molecules with potential therapeutic benefits. It also demonstrates how even the smallest discoveries in nature can lead to monumental advances in medicine.  

Collaboration: The Key to Progress  

The discovery of GLP-1 agonists was a collaborative effort, bringing together experts in endocrinology, pharmacology, and gastroenterology. The interdisciplinary approach allowed the team to connect the dots between a venomous lizard and the human gut’s metabolic pathways.  

This kind of collaboration is essential for modern medical research. By combining knowledge from diverse fields, we can tackle complex problems and open new frontiers in treatment.  

The Value of Venom in Medicine  

Venomous species, from snakes to scorpions to marine snails, are increasingly recognized as treasure troves of medicinal compounds. Their venoms contain molecules finely tuned by evolution to target specific biological pathways—making them ideal candidates for drug development.  

The Gila monster’s role in modern medicine is a testament to the untapped potential of venomous species. It reinforces the need to protect biodiversity and invest in research that explores the medical applications of venom.

A Florida Perspective

As a retired gastroenterologist in Florida, I now spend more time dodging iguanas and geckos on the golf course than in the lab. Still, the allure of discovery lingers. I sometimes joke that I should stash an Erlenmeyer flask and a portable liquid chromatograph in my golf bag—just in case I stumble upon the next venomous breakthrough mid-round. Who knows? A particularly curious reptile encounter might even inspire an NIH grant application. Florida’s ecosystem is a constant reminder of the untapped potential in the natural world, from the fairways to the mangroves.

Conclusion  

The story of GLP-1 agonists is more than a medical milestone—it’s a reminder of the importance of curiosity and collaboration. It challenges us to look beyond the surface and explore the natural world with an open mind, knowing that the next breakthrough could come from the most unlikely source.  

By harnessing the power of venom and embracing the wonders of nature, we’re not just advancing medicine; we’re honoring the interconnectedness of life itself. And as a gastroenterologist, I’m proud to celebrate the scientific ingenuity that transformed a venomous lizard into a symbol of hope and healing.  

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The Hidden Threat to Democracy: How Presidential Health Can Shape World History

The cognitive health of a nation’s leader can have far-reaching consequences that extend beyond their term in office. A striking example of this is the case of President Woodrow Wilson, whose impairment during crucial post-World War I negotiations may have indirectly contributed to the conditions that led to World War II.

In 1918, Wilson contracted influenza during the global pandemic. This illness, coupled with a severe stroke in October 1919, left him significantly impaired during the final year of his presidency[1]. This period coincided with critical negotiations for the Treaty of Versailles, which would shape the post-war world order.

Wilson’s diminished capacity meant he was unable to effectively advocate for his “Fourteen Points” plan, which aimed for a more balanced peace[2]. Instead, harsher terms were imposed on Germany, creating economic hardship and national resentment that would later be exploited by extremist political movements[3].

The consequences of these decisions were catastrophic. World War II resulted in an estimated 70-85 million deaths worldwide[4], a scale of loss that might have been preventable had the post-WWI peace process been handled differently.

This historical example underscores the critical importance of a president’s cognitive function. Executive functions such as decision-making, problem-solving, and communication are essential for effective leadership, particularly in times of crisis or complex international negotiations[5].

One aspect of cognitive function that plays a crucial role in leadership is prosody – the rhythm, stress, and intonation of speech. Prosody is not merely about eloquence; it significantly impacts how messages are received and interpreted. Research has shown that prosodic features of speech can influence listeners’ comprehension, emotional response, and even decision-making[6].

In the context of presidential communication, prosody can affect a leader’s ability to motivate a nation, provide hope in times of crisis, and effectively convey complex policy decisions. Presidents who have been noted for their strong oratorical skills, such as Franklin D. Roosevelt and John F. Kennedy, used prosody effectively to rally public support and communicate their vision[7].

The implications of this are significant for the democratic process. When electing a president, voters are not just choosing a set of policies, but also a communicator-in-chief who must be able to lead effectively in times of national and global crisis. The cognitive health of candidates should be a key consideration in the electoral process.

It’s important to note that cognitive health is a complex issue influenced by many factors, and simplistic or discriminatory approaches should be avoided. However, given the potential long-term consequences of presidential decision-making, it is crucial that voters have accurate information about candidates’ cognitive capabilities and that robust systems are in place to ensure continuity of effective governance under all circumstances.

[1] Cooper, J. M. (2009). Woodrow Wilson: A Biography. Knopf.
[2] MacMillan, M. (2001). Paris 1919: Six Months That Changed the World. Random House.
[3] Keynes, J. M. (1920). The Economic Consequences of the Peace. Harcourt, Brace and Howe.
[4] Weinberg, G. L. (2005). A World at Arms: A Global History of World War II. Cambridge University Press.
[5] Goldstein, K. (2015). The Executive Brain: Frontal Lobes and the Civilized Mind. Oxford University Press.
[6] Scherer, K. R., & Bänziger, T. (2004). Emotional Expression in Prosody: A Review and an Agenda for Future Research. Speech Communication, 46(1-2), 180-203.
[7] Leanne, S. (2016). Say It Like Obama and Win!: The Power of Speaking with Purpose and Vision. McGraw Hill Professional.

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Political Theatre turns into a Monty Python Skit

In the latest episode of political theatre, President Biden’s debate performance was deeply concerning. His responses were not merely gaffes but signs of potential cognitive decline. Speaking in a low volume, with a monotone delivery, semantic errors, and tangential content, he seemed far removed from the sharp, decisive leader we expect in a Chief Executive.

It is troubling that his closest allies dismissed this as just a “bad night.” This situation is reminiscent of Monty Python’s Black Knight, who, after losing all his limbs after a duel with King Arthur, insists it is “only a flesh wound.” Such deflection ignores the serious implications of what we witnessed.

While I am not a neurologist, but just a humble retired GI doc, I have observed patients and family with neurologic symptoms and signs, taught mental status exams  for 5 years to  medical students and watched 10 seasons of ER. While watching the debate, terms like “abnormal prosody” and “paraphrasing errors” came to mind.. Coupled with a noticeably slowed, narrow gait, vascular Parkinson’s disease may be the disease process we are witnessing. This can mimic neurodegenerative disorders and  often follows a progressive course.

The stakes are too high to ignore these signs. Ensuring that the most powerful position in the world is held by someone who is neurologically and psychologically sound is not just a matter of political strategy—it is a matter of national and global security. If we are to avoid potential tragedy, we must confront these issues with the seriousness they deserve.

The recent debate should prompt a thorough and transparent evaluation of President Biden’s capacity to fulfill the demands of his office. Anything less risks dooming not just our nation, but the world, to the consequences of impaired leadership. The time for empathy and decisive action is now, for the sake of all our futures.

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All Aboard the Time-Traveling Train: From iPhones to Hole Punches

Hey there fellow time-travelers! Yesterday I embarked on a journey that took me from the bustling streets of Manhattan straight back to the days of quill pens and steam engines. Perhaps, not that far back to the Gilded Age, but to an encounter that Vanderbilt and Astor would have recognized.

It all began innocently enough when I decided to hop on a NJ Transit train from Manhattan to Princeton, armed with nothing but my trusty iPhone and the NJ Transit app for my digital ticket needs. Modern, efficient, and oh-so-21st-century, right? No sooner than you could hum “Chattanooga Choo-Choo” things were about to take a whimsical turn.

Upon boarding the train, I eagerly flashed my digital ticket to the conductor, expecting a nod of approval or perhaps a high-tech validation dance. Instead, what I got was a surprising twist straight out of a Dickens novel. The conductor, with a flourish that would make any Victorian-era trainmaster proud, whipped out a single-hole punch and transformed my digital ticket into a bona fide analogue relic.

I stood there, iPhone in hand, marveling at the retro transformation unfolding before my eyes. It was like watching a black-and-white movie suddenly burst into Technicolor. From cutting-edge tech to mid-19th-century simplicity in the blink of an eye – who knew train travel could be such a delightful blend of old and new?

But this unexpected trip down memory lane didn’t stop there. As the conductor wielded his trusty hole punch, I found myself reminiscing about my first encounter with this humble office tool back in grade school. Ah yes, the days of diligently punching holes in my assignments to fit neatly into those ring binders. And the excitement of upgrading to the multipunch device that liberated me from the tyranny of measuring hole spacing! Who knew hole punches could spark such nostalgia?

And speaking of technological marvels, let’s not forget the great pen revolution of the 1960s. Out went the old fountain pens with their inky splatters, and in came the sleek, crystal-clear Bic ballpoint pens. It was a time of bold innovation and perhaps a few ink-stained pocket protectors left in the dust.

Yet here we are, in the 21st century, marveling at the circular dance of hole punches and the timeless charm of analog tickets. It’s a curious thing, isn’t it? How we cycle through the ages, rediscovering and reimagining what worked in the past.

So, next time you find yourself on a journey through time and space aboard a NJ Transit train, remember to keep your digital ticket handy. Who knows, you might just end up with a charming souvenir from the days of yore – courtesy of a single-hole punch and a conductor with a flair for the dramatic.

And as for me? Well, I’ll be here, eagerly awaiting the resurgence of steam-powered espresso machines and top hats in everyday fashion. Because why not embrace the whimsy of it all? After all, in this delightful dance between past and present, there’s always room for a good punchline.

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Protests: Then and Now: History Matters

Reflecting on the recent surge of protests on college campuses regarding the Israeli-Gaza conflict, I’m struck by the echoes of past demonstrations. Having been both a participant in earlier protests and now an observer of current events, I can’t help but draw on my own experiences to shed light on the similarities and profound differences between the two.

Protest movements start with a belief and idea, challenged and changed by special interests and ultimately hardened by money, mobs and weaponry.

In the 1970s, I was actively involved in protests against U.S. Foreign Policy during the Vietnam War. At that time, like many others, my understanding of the conflict was shaped by what I was taught in high school and what I saw in the media. The prevailing narrative portrayed Communist Vietnam as a dire threat to Southeast Asia and the American way of life, invoking the Domino Theory to justify U.S. intervention.

However, my perspective shifted when I entered college and was exposed to different viewpoints, particularly through the teachings of professors at New York University. They challenged the credibility of the Domino Theory, pointing to evidence that contradicted the official narrative. This newfound knowledge had profound implications, especially for those of us who were of draft age, as it exposed the true motivations behind U.S. involvement in Vietnam: financial gain for military manufacturers and the perpetuation of the military-industrial complex. 

Moreover, my involvement in protests during that time exposed me to the harsh reality of government suppression and violence. Instances like the infamous clashes in Chicago and Washington D.C.(where I had a serving of tear gas)  served as stark reminders of the lengths to which those in power would go to quell dissent.

Fast forward to today’s protests on college campuses, and I can’t help but draw parallels and differences to what is occurring now.  As a former student of USC Medical School and a prior employee at Columbia University, I know and experienced the historical Jewish influences in both institutions. Given this background, it is disquieting, witnessing the alarming rise of anti-Semitic rhetoric and the uncritical support for the Palestinian cause, often coupled with indirect endorsements of Hamas, a terrorist group defined by the U.S. and neighboring Arab nations.

This shift in discourse is puzzling, especially given the historical significance of Judaism in intellectual and collegiate life. It seems that the true history of Zionism, born out of a response to European colonialism and centuries of Jewish persecution, has been conveniently overlooked or distorted. Similarly, the violence perpetrated against Jewish communities in Palestine during British rule has been swept under the rug, along with Israel’s defensive actions against relentless attacks by neighboring Arab states.

One cannot ignore the role of financial interests in shaping these narratives. Arab states, particularly Qatar, have poured significant funds into academic institutions, influencing discourse and faculty appointments and fostering pro-Palestinian sentiments as well as funding the underground tunnels and offensive weapons used by Hamas against the State of Israel.. As a result, Israel, once seen as a beacon of hope born out of the ashes of the Holocaust, is now portrayed as an oppressive state in the eyes of many on college campuses.

Yet amidst the rhetoric and polarization, it’s important to remember the human cost of the conflict. Innocent Palestinians suffer due to their leadership’s prioritization of weaponry over education and development, while Israel faces constant threats to its existence and is forced to adopt a more conservative approach, including rejecting the two-state solution.

Ultimately, what’s needed is rational governance and a commitment to dialogue and compromise from all sides. Only then can we hope to pave the way for lasting peace in the Middle East, where the safety and well-being of all its inhabitants are prioritized above all else.

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Bison and Bullets: A Tale of Conservation at Camp Pendleton

In the tapestry of my passions, woven with threads of American history, fascination for large North American mammals, and a penchant for irony, a unique story unfolded during my visit to Camp Pendleton. It was there that I discovered the intriguing tale of the bison project, a narrative that spans decades and involves the resilience of a species nearly brought to extinction.

For decades, I have harbored a profound respect for bison. From childhood encounters at the Bronx Zoo to thrilling wildlife sightings in Yellowstone National Park, I have always been captivated by their strength and resilience. However, their journey in America has been fraught with hardship. Once roaming the Great Plains in millions, their numbers dwindled to near extinction by the late 19th century due to excessive hunting and habitat loss.

Fortunately, the 20th century witnessed a concerted effort towards bison conservation, leading to their gradual resurgence. Yet, California was not typically considered part of their natural range. This is where the story of Camp Pendleton’s bison takes an unexpected turn.

In the 1970’s the San Diego Zoo partnered with Camp Pendleton to establish a breeding program with the introduction of Adam and Eve, a pair of bison. Despite the seemingly incongruous setting of a military base, this program proved immensely successful. Over the years, the herd has flourished, with over 150 bison now roaming the hills and mesas of Camp Pendleton.

Their primary habitat lies near the artillery range, offering a stark contrast to the sounds of military exercises. As a Marine soldier and fellow golfer shared, “We often have to stop shooting practice while the bison graze through the area. They have no natural predators here, except for the occasional golf ball or shell fragment.”

This observation resonated deeply. Witnessing these majestic creatures thrive under the protection of the very institutions that once played a role in their historical decline served as a powerful reminder of our evolving relationship with nature. The story of the Camp Pendleton bison serves as a beacon for hope, reminding us that even in the midst of human activity, nature can find a way to adapt and thrive.

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“A Journey Through Israel: Reflections on Past, Present, and Hopes for Peace”

In the summer of 1972, at the age of 19, I found myself in Bror Chayill, a kibbutz in Southern Israel, tending to cows, cleaning chicken coops, and working on the floors of a ceramic factory. The kibbutz was located several miles away from the Gaza Strip, where recent unspoken atrocities had taken place. At that time, the kibbutz was a melting pot, attracting travelers from Japan, Europe, and Brazilian Jews seeking solace from the horrors of the Holocaust and embracing a multi-ethnic experience.

Among the residents were Sabras, Israeli-born natives, who had recently completed their service in the Air Force during the 1967 war when Israel was attacked by Syria, Egypt, and Jordan. A year later, a similar conflict erupted, claiming lives both in the kibbutz and beyond.

In 1999, I returned to Israel with my family and had the opportunity to explore the region with an Israeli guide named Gaddy, who had Palestinian friends. We visited various Islamic sites, including the Dome of the Rock, where a Palestinian caretaker pointed out the shared historical origins of Judaism and Islam. We also ventured into Hebron in the West Bank, dining at a Palestinian restaurant adorned with a portrait of Yasir Arafat. The owner spoke of ambitious plans for Hebron, envisioning a bustling town with hotels, casinos, and religious sites to attract millions of tourists from around the world.I calculated the short distances to Hebron from the population centers of Europe, Asia and the Middle East and the billions of people across the planet that identified with the great religions: Christianity, Islam and Judaism and nodded my head that his predictions were likely to be true. Sadly, these dreams were shattered by the eruption of the second intifada a year later, resulting in loss and suffering on both sides.

A decade after that, my son pursued medical education in Tel Aviv, and we endured tense moments during Scud missile attacks by Hamas from Gaza. By then, Hamas had solidified its control over Gaza and continued to threaten Israel, particularly the areas near Bror Chayill.

I find it ironic that Palestinians and the American Left lay claim to the moral high ground of repatriation against Jewry without acknowledging the persecution Jews have endured over two millennia. the Persian and Roman exile from Israel, the deportation of Jews from England in the 14th century, the Inquisition, murder and displacement of Jews from Spain and the Iberian Peninsula in the 15th century, the pogroms, forced servitude and murders in Russia and the Austrian-Hungarian Empire in the 18th and 19th century and the Holocaust in the 20th century. The story repeats itself ad nauseum: a minority (Jewry) confronting a majority who needs a scapegoat (i.e. reason for the Black Death in Europe in the 14th century, loss of World War I and runaway inflation in Germany in the 1920’s) who can intimidate, suppress, murder and steal their culture and physical goods without repercussion. 

 The cycle of minority persecution, scapegoating, and violence against Jews repeats throughout history, from ancient exiles to the Holocaust. It’s a sad reality that in the face of radical religious factions driven by zealotry, defense of Israel becomes a necessary course of action.

My heart aches for the innocent lives lost on both sides of this enduring conflict. As a student of history, I believe that countering religious zealotry, which seeks the annihilation of Jews, necessitates defending Israel. I remain hopeful that one day, reasonable minds will prevail, allowing Hebron to thrive as a peaceful and prosperous destination for people of all religions to enjoy.

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Use It or Lose It: Keeping Your Youthful Gait

Ah, behold the epic saga of my grandson’s adventure into bipedal glory! With all the charm of a circus performer in training, he struts his stuff at a mere 1 ½  years old. From daring steps to mind-boggling acrobatics, he’s the superstar of our grandparent galaxy. We bask in the glory of his feats, as if his milestones were gold medals, and we’re the proud fan club on the sidelines, waving oversized foam fingers.

But wait, as the years stack up like pancakes, so do the struggles at the other end of life’s conveyor belt. Enter the geriatric experience – where once-easy skills now play hide and seek with our memories. Picture me, preparing to enlighten some young medical students about the art of “falls in the elderly.” Little did I know, my own walking escapades would become the star of the show.

“Decreased proprioception,” I declaimed, feeling quite the wise sage. “Ankles that flex like uncooperative door hinges and a big toe clearance that screams ‘trip me if you dare’.” But that wasn’t the end of my aging acrobatics; oh no, there’s more. Numbness, tingling, and muscles that have taken a sabbatical joined the party, making sure my gait resembled a comedy skit more than a dignified strut.

Still, I fancied myself quite the septuagenarian athlete. Treadmill trekking, skiing (albeit a bit more ‘controlled falling’ these days), hiking, and golfing – I had a fitness arsenal that could make even a personal trainer raise an eyebrow. Then came the showdown in the Utah golfing arena. Another septuagenarian, a golfing legend in his own right, launched a golf ball into the stratosphere while mine stuttered like a reluctant rocket. My ball decided to take a scenic route through rocks and pine trees, like it was on a woodland adventure.

“Lost ball,” I mumbled in defeat, dropping another on the fairway. But behold, my fellow septuagenarian turned out to be a real-life action hero. With the agility of a mountain goat and the fearlessness of a squirrel on caffeine, he bounded up the hill, leaping over boulders and obstacles with the grace of a ballet dancer. “How do you stay so spry?” I gasped, amazed. His answer? A casual, “Oh, just thirty years on the search and rescue team in Salt Lake City.” In other words, decades of extreme skiing, hiking to the moon (or at least 10,000 feet), and kayaking through rapids that could give a roller coaster a run for its money.

Ah, let’s talk about the great divide in our mastery levels – I, the illustrious explorer of New York City sidewalks and conqueror of Florida bar stool acrobatics, and he, the daring daredevil of Wasatch Mountain’s icy slopes and altitude-extraordinaire. It’s like comparing a slightly mischievous squirrel to a high-altitude superhero with extra red blood cells for added oomph. Yes, I was grounded at sea level, while he practically lived in the clouds.

So, the big question arose – could practicing the fine art of pedestrianism in quirky situations bring back the glory days? Armed with my trusty hiking poles, I embarked on an epic quest: the Stewart Cascade Trail in Sundance, Utah. A mere 3 ½ miles, you say? A paltry 617-foot elevation gain? Well, let me regale you with tales of fallen Norway Spruce that wanted to trip me, streams that seemed to play tag with my feet, and mud that had a vendetta. Each step was a calculated gamble – like a dance with destiny. Will the limestone rock be a solid partner, can my hip flexors outsmart this tree branch’s sneak attack, should I leap like a gazelle or wade like a water buffalo through that stream?

Three hours later, I emerged – battered, not broken, weary as a sloth on a Monday morning, and feeling like a 21st-century version of Kit Carson (minus the wild frontier, plus the determination to conquer nature’s hurdles). And guess what? A few more trails later, I discovered that maneuvering stairs, sauntering on sidewalks, and even the most mundane urban escapades were suddenly a breeze. I had transformed from pavement pauper to sidewalk swashbuckler!

So here’s the grand revelation: practice, my friends, is the enchanted elixir of youth. Venture to the mountains, ponder each step like it’s a piece of a grand puzzle, and who knows? Someday you might just be the sprightly counterpart to your gravity-defying grandson. Until then, let the sidewalks tremble at the approach of your rejuvenated footsteps!