Neighbors

Seaford couple honored by temple

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“There are different types of volunteers,” said Brain Levy of Temple B’nai Torah in Wantagh. “There are the type that bring up ideas and say we should do something, but never go about doing it. Then there are people that actually go out and volunteer. Harvey and Rita Drucker are those type of people.”

On Nov. 2, Harvey and Rita Drucker were honored for their service in and out of the temple. Both congregants are heavily involved in projects and committees ongoing at Temple B’nai Torah. The couple grew up in Brooklyn before moving to Seaford in 1961 with their children, Rina and David.

Harvey is a successful documentary photographer and currently works as a director of advertising, sales promotion and public relations for a world-wide women’s under fashion company. His past work includes years as art director, which he did for most of his career after graduating the School of Visual Arts with a degree in graphic design. He has also served during the Korean War on a Navy Destroyer Escort in the Atlantic and Pacific during his college career.

Rita finds her passion in writing, Asian painting, and traveling. She graduated from SUNY New Paltz and received her master’s degree from Brooklyn College. She has worked as a substitute teacher for adult education and a special education teacher.

The Druckers both contribute a lot to Temple B’nai Torah through volunteering, serving on committees, and any other ways they find possible. Harvey is a past president of the temple’s brotherhood and is currently on the board of the temple. He is involved in several ongoing projects, and was a big part of the four-year process to merge two temples to create Temple B’nai Torah. He is working on the temple’s memorial project in which deceased loved ones will get a plaque with their name on it and a light for remembrance. He is also on the temple’s housing committee and serves as a photojournalist for the temple.

Rita is greatly involved in the Ritual Committee for Temple B’nai Torah, which is involved in the religious protocol of the congregation. This includes guidelines and procedures during holidays, among other creeds and decisions. She also sings with the choir and served on several boards and committees since she joined Legacy Temple Judea in 1964.

Harvey and Rita Drucker say they are grateful for having their contributions recognized by the temple’s leaders and look forward to continuing their service to the community and Temple B’nai Torah.