By , Special to JTNews
After serving seven years as executive director of the Va’ad HaRabanim of Greater Seattle, David Grashin will be leaving the Va’ad effective the beginning of 2002.
Grashin was instrumental in helping to establish the organization, which oversees issues relating to halacha (Jewish law) that affect the Jewish community.
“As head of the Va’ad, David has been a key force in shaping its mission and establishing it as one of the most reputable organizations of its kind in the country,” said Rabbi Moshe Kletenik, a member of the Va’ad and rabbi of Bikur Cholim-Machzikay Hadath congregation. “Seattle is truly on the map of the Kashruth world thanks in large part to David’s efforts,”
Grashin will be pursuing other business interests following his departure. He will also help facilitate a smooth transition.
“We are currently conducting a search both locally and nationwide for a replacement executive director,” said Al Maimon, lay liaison to the Va’ad. “Our goal and vision is to continue to elevate the standard within our community and attract top talent to help take us there.”
During Grashin’s tenure, Seattle’s hashgacha (kosher certification) was created and has gained recognition throughout the world, giving kosher status to locally produced food products as diverse as salmon caviar and sorbet. In addition, the Va’ad supervises a number of local restaurants and caterers.
“I am very proud of our accomplishments,” said Grashin, “and I value the opportunity I’ve had to work with the rabbis and mashgichim, who are responsible for maintaining Seattle’s high standards.”
Other Va’ad accomplishments include compilation and distribution of a periodical catalog of kosher products and a Passover guide. In addition, the Va’ad provides services for mediation, conversion and divorce, according to Jewish law, as well as educational and other vital services.
“We have much to be proud of over the last seven years,” said Rabbi Simon Benzaquen, Va’ad member and rabbi of Sephardic Bikur Holim, “and we look forward to continued growth in providing vital community services.” Supported by the community, the Va’ad relies heavily on individual donations to operate. An annual membership drive is currently underway. For more information, contact the Va’ad by phone at 206-760-0805 or by e-mail at [email protected], or visit its Web site, www.vaad.net.
The Va’ad, representing congregations throughout the greater Seattle area, include Rabbi Sholom Ber Levitin, president, Rabbi S. Maimon, Rabbi W. Greenberg, Rabbi Salomon Cohen, and Rabbi Yechezkel Kornfeld in addition to Rabbis Benzaquen and Kletenik.