Laughing with Lizards? What does that even mean? "Laughing with lizards" (Yiddish:
lakhn mit yashtsherkes) is an idiom that meansto laugh on the outside while crying on the inside. It represents laughing out of bitter irony, despair, or profound sadness rather than true joy.
From this article, linked here, “Recognizing the cultural importance of this work, Jewish Federation of Atlantic & Cape May Counties has pledged to underwrite the program, ensuring that the distinctive Jewish music and storytelling broadcasting from Cape May can continue to reach listeners locally and beyond. “This radio show is a true cultural gem,” said Rachel Waldman, Executive Director of Jewish Federation of Atlantic & Cape May Counties.”…
…”Reflecting on the cultural significance of his work, Bendich says, “Klezmer and Yiddish music are about survival, history, and identity. The Holocaust tried to erase it, but the culture lives on. People are finding ways to make it relevant, to explore their identity in creative ways. That’s a really positive thing.”
Bendich also highlights the role of small independent stations like WCFA. “Analog radio is special. It’s tangible, immediate, and community-driven. It reaches Jewish audiences and also people who don’t know much about our culture. It’s a place for education, for sharing, and for connecting people to music they might never hear otherwise.”
Aaron Bendich can be heard Laughing with Lizards every Sunday at 11 AM eastern time on WCFA 101.5 FM or streaming around the world. This is an example of the importance of community radio in telling the stories of culture through music and talk.
