Image Up Advertising & Design

44 FOUR SEASONS BREEZE | SEPTEMBER 2019 Jewish Cultural Club Movie Night: Join us on Nov. 17 at 5 pm in The Lodge for the original 1968 movie The Producers, by Mel Brooks. If anyone has seen the musical play and 2005 film The Producers you know what a wildly funny film it is. Many people did not know that there was an earlier, non- musical version released in 1968, written and directed by the same guy, that American treasure and comic genius, Mel Brooks. The original is even funnier than the 2005 musical production. But the film is more than just a silly and entertaining comedy. As with all Mel Brooks productions, there are layers of biting satire and social commentary hidden within the film. The original version of The Producers, Brooks' directorial debut, offers material which lends itself to a high level discussion on cultural stereotypes and prejudices. The film challenges the viewer to examine their own ideas of what is appropriate in a film. Preceding the film will be a dessert and coffee reception, starting at 5 pm. The film starts at 6 pm, with a spirited discussion about the serious aspects of the film immediately following the final credits. Seating is limited, so we are asking that you RSVP for the film to Perry Goldstein at perry.goldstein@gmail.com. The evening is guaranteed to entertain, inform, and provoke serious thought. If you haven't seen either of The Producers, you will be treated to one of the funniest films ever produced. If you have seen the musical version, you must see the original as well. Once you see this film, and study the insights into its messaging, you will never look at the film the same way again. Everyone is welcome, you don't have to be a member of the club to attend. There is no cost to attend this event. We only ask that you RSVP by email so we can be sure and have enough to eat, and enough seating for everyone. And don't forget to mark your calendars for the Hanukkah bash, "Uncle Fischel's Comedy, Music, and Food Extravaganza" on Dec. 17 at 5 pm. More details to follow in the October edition of the Breeze. ~ Perry Goldstein Jewish Cultural Club Bereavement Group One of the many things I learned when I started the Bereavement Group years ago was how badly prepared most Americans are for the death of a loved one. Many of us are taught by our well-meaning parents that we should not feel bad, that we should not cry in front of others because we need to be strong for them, that there is a time limit for our sorrow, and that we should keep busy so we don't think about it. Our parents were just passing on what they had been taught. Another thing I have learned through the years is that those teachings make it very difficult for many grievers to participate in a bereavement group. I am well aware that a bereavement group is not for everyone. Some people have been very private all of their lives, and a group setting is not for them. Two of my closer friends are very private. When they lost their husbands, they tried a group. Both of them made it through one meeting and vowed never to return. They had been terribly uncomfortable and recognized that a lifetime of being private was not going to change now. But many other people do share more freely. They call friends and family to share, to complain, to gossip, and even to cry. They are the ones who hear about our group, or read about it in the Breeze or on the website, and call me. Frequently, we have a fairly long conversation and they say, "I'll probably see you on Monday." As soon as I hear "probably," I know they won't come. And I do not blame them. Most of them are frightened at the thought of crying in front of others, or of sharing their intense sadness and breaking down completely and never being able to stop. They believe they have to be strong and if they just keep busy they will get through it. I never try to convince these folks to come to the group, so I don't call them and try to change their minds. But I understand. If they could put aside their fear, they would find a group of people who would welcome them and help them on their healing journey. If you have experienced loss, please give us a try. We meet on Mondays from 1 to 3 pm in the RCN Conference Room. You can just show up or you can call me first at (951) 922-0934, or email me at lauriemlarson425@gmail.com. All contact is confidential. ~ Laurie Larson

• Cover