12 Dec Speak your VUES
CIGARETTES KILL
Dear Editor:
Finally it is about time. If any of you use the New York Times for scrap paper, you will notice a couple days ago that there is an advertisement from cigarette companies admitting that smoking causes cancer and is dangerous, it’s about time
- Bressler
Editor’s Note: I don’t think you need the New York Times to tell you that you should stop smoking. Speak to your local doctor. Visit the oncology ward. The evidence is overwhelming.
EQUAL POLICING
Dear Editor:
There is nothing wrong for policemen giving tickets for not giving signals or not wearing seat belts but they seem to hide and wait for the drivers in Boro Park or Flatbush. How come they do not do this in Harlem? Are they afraid to get their throat cut?
Gary
Editor’s Note: I think you may be exaggerating. There are policemen giving tickets all over, in all neighborhoods. They do their job despite the dangers they encounter on a daily basis. They should be commended and not criticized. It’s the politicians who have to change the foolish laws that are just looking to fill the coffers of the city. Studies have shown there is the same amount of accidents and deaths since the 25 mph law was passed. All the city has gotten is more money to give out for liberal programs.
COVERING HIS EYES
Dear Editor:
Last week Jewish singer Yonatan Razel blindfolded himself with black
duct tape to avoid seeing female fans in the audience dancing close to
the stage. Do you think that what he did is right or just a publicity
stunt?
Elie Dachs
Editor’s Note: Whether he did it for a publicity stunt or not, there is a rule in the Torah, “Mi toch shelo leshma , ba leshma.” Let us not criticize someone who is trying to do what is right, even if it is middas chassidus.
ORIGIN OF THE SAYING
Dear Editor:
Would you be so kind and ask Rabbi Moshe Meir Weiss who originated the expression that is said at every Yahrtzeit “the Neshama should have an Aliyah.” The gemara says that when a person dies, the neshama is always Tachas Kiseh Hakavod. It does not move up or down.
Moshe Schreck
Editor’s Note: It is brought down in many Chassidic sefarim. Not everyone has to agree on everything. We do have to learn to tolerate other people’s opinions in halacha and hashkafa.
IMMORALITY UP FOR ELECTION
Dear Editor:
What is this world coming to? In Alabama, an immoral person who has done improper things has a really good chance of winning the election. What’s gonna be?
Editor’s Note: It is sad that America is taking the course of Sedom and Gemorra which includes laws allowing for immoral behavior and attacking the sanctity of marriage.
BORUCH DAYAN HAEMES
Dear Editor:
It is with great sadness that we heard the terrible news that Rav Shteinman was niftar. Klal Yisroel will really feel the loss of such a person. His stature, tefillos and learning protected us all. His advice was sought by many. He will be missed. Yehi zichro baruch.
Editor’s Note: I couldn’t have said it any better. We are all in mourning together.
UNNECESSARY HOURS SPENT ON PLAY
Dear Editor:
I would like to complain about the hours my daughter is gone practicing for her school play. What do we need this for? Are we trying to copy the goyim with their plays?
Berel Cohen
Editor’s Note: I think that school plays are so important in helping the girls in so many ways. It helps them build character by dealing with pressure. It gives the girls an opportunity to connect socially with their peers that would otherwise not be there. Be happy you have a daughter who is involved!
DONUT DANGER
Dear Editor:
The bakeries are baking too many donuts. People are gaining weight an alarming pace. Someone’s got to do something about this! Could you believe that some stores actually are giving these donuts away for free!
Editor’s Note: Now that I’ve cleaned up the custard that spilled on my shirt I can try to respond your letter. If you don’t want to eat donuts, no one is forcing you. To everyone else, hearty appetite!