8. The Jew Club
Before I leave San Francisco, Jeff Goldbetter tells me his sister lives in Taipei; would I check in on her and see how she is doing. I contact Sylvie to see if she is available to go to the Seder; I figure she’s Jewish because Jeff is. She tells me she went to a service with Rabbi Alcorn the year before. Rabbi Alcorn! Wow! That’s how I find out he is still alive. Jeff Goldbetter’s half-sister joined Alcorn for Passover last year I find out, but won't be attending the pricey dinner this year. She sounds ill-at-ease; I will visit her family two weekends from now. I owe it to Jeff. Outside Taipei, Taiwan is different; natives notice you, with curiosity or contempt, but typically with flattery, real or obligatory. International organizations have their offices in Taipei, even religious organizations, so it is that the island’s only rabbi holds ceremonies and gala dinners for mostly businessmen here. I go to Passover, even in San Francisco. While I am here, Passover ro