Reprinted from “Letters to the Editor”
of The Jewish Star of the South Shore (Long Island)

The Orthodox Union’s call to ban Shabbat morning Kiddush Clubs (“Why Kiddush Clubs must go,” Feb.11) is a long overdue effort to eliminate a practice widely seen as paradoxical and counter-productive to the very purpose of synagogue worship and potentially detrimental to the health and welfare of our children. The OU is to be congratulated for taking what is sure to be seen by many as an unpopular stand. However, any report of this new undertaking should rightfully acknowledge Rabbi Hershel Billet of the Young Israel of Woodmere, who over two years ago presciently understood the link between Kiddush Clubs and the explosion of alcohol abuse among our teens.

As a result of the Young Israel’s Executive Board and the entire shul membership’s courageous and pioneering decision to ban not only Kiddush Clubs but also all alcohol (except for wine at Kiddushim) from the synagogue’s premises, several synagogues in the Five Towns area followed suit.

Yasher Koach to the OU from the thousands of parents and children who stand to benefit from this new policy.

Jacob Weichholz
Chairman of the Board

George Wertheimer
President, Young Israel of Woodmere

www.ou.org