We enjoyed your interesting cover story (“Wave of the Future,” Aug. 15), but take exception to Rabbi Mark Hyman’s comment: “This is the first generation residing in this neighborhood. No one’s grandparents lived here.”
As young children we moved to Hermosa Beach following World War II so our father could take a job in his uncle’s established auto parts store on Pier Avenue. We were two of a handful of Jewish children in Hermosa Beach City Schools and at Redondo Union High School.
Our parents were proud founding members of Temple Menorah in 1946 and we were thrilled last November to participate in its 50th anniversary celebration with other founding families. Its religious school and youth group were integral parts of our lives. This week, our 86-year-old mother is having lunch with her “beach” friends.
We moved from the South Bay following our father’s death in 1967, but surely know where our roots were. Our kids certainly know Grandma Helen came “from the beach.”
Ilene Katz Feinstein
Chatsworth
Marcia Katz Strauss
Northridge
Positive Attitude
Contrary to the impression given by Naomi Pfefferman concerning the despondent mood of the Rabbi and congregants of Congregation Etz Chaim of Hancock Park (“Shtiebl’s Third Strike,” July 25), I would like to state categorically that all those involved with the congregation are very optimistic of a satisfactory conclusion to the current situation.
We are heartened by the unequivocal support given to us by such national organizations as the ACLU, ADL, AJC, Agudath Israel, as well as many others.
They realize, as we do, that this is not just a zoning issue, but also an issue of tolerance and religious freedom.
Alan Stern
Los Angeles
The Answer Is Vouchers
In the discussion over Jewish day schools and the continuing deterioration of the public schools (“Beyond Their Means?” July 18), the only viable proposal which would empower parents with a choice over the education their children receive for the taxes they pay, is that of school vouchers.
Such a plan would
More news and opinions than at a Shabbat dinner, right in your inbox.