Letters to the Editor

Thank you, Rabbi Septimus

To the Editor:

There is no better time than the beginning of the Jewish New Year to honor a person who deserves our thanks and recognition.

Rabbi Yehuda Septimus of Congregation Young Israel of North Woodmere came to my house while I was sitting Shiva for my husband. The rabbi had never met me nor was I a member of his congregation, but he had heard of my loss from a neighbor and out of the goodness of his heart paid a condolence call. He asked questions about my husband and told us a story, and even my grandson listened and commented that he was very caring and inspirational. He was there to comfort us and his sincere feelings came through to us. Rabbi Septimus is a rare human being with sensitivity, intelligence and a good soul.

The congregation is lucky to have him as their rabbi. Rabbis come and go today but once you have a special one it is important to hold on to him. Rabbi Septimus never took anything from me. No money, no food, no gifts — nothing. Isn’t it incredible that one rabbi can make such a difference? He has helped me through the most difficult time of my life. Thank you, Rabbi Septimus.

Florence Kastriner, North Woodmere

Combating the obesity crisis

To the Editor:

I'm writing in response to a recent letter to the editor entitled “Are calorie counts worth it?” (Aug. 27-Sept. 2).

Recently, I had an opportunity to present to the Nassau County Legislature my support for the Calorie Menu Labeling local law, introduced by County Legislator Jeff Toback. Along with the banning of trans fats in 2008, calorie labeling is another step in the battle against obesity. These initiatives relate to County Executive Thomas R. Suozzi’s Healthy Nassau program. The mission of Healthy Nassau is to make Nassau the healthiest county in the nation. Banning of trans fats and calorie menu labeling legislation are a beginning, yet so much more is needed.