Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn,Ita Yankovich

Question: People complain that Jewish celebrations have become too extravagant. Agree or disagree?

Yes, we have gone too far. Today in some circles it is normal to hire private dancers and DJs. People should go to gemachs to decrease the amount of money they spend on weddings and bar mitzvahs. We also need to write more about this issue.

Betty Daniel, housewife

No. Some families have the resources and if they want to spend a lot of money on their children, I don't see what's wrong with that. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the child and the family and they should be allowed to celebrate any way they choose if they have the money.

Leah Aminov, student

I don't see it being as bad as some people claim; at times, however, events can be overdone and overly crowded, making for a zoo-like atmosphere. I suggest that parents give one-tenth of whatever amount they intend to spend on an affair to a charity instead. Ultimately, though, we really can't dictate to people what they should do with their money.

Ann Cohen, clerk

Yes, they have become too extravagant. Families need to sit down and discuss their priorities before planning the event. Unfortunately, today we are all trying to keep up with the Joneses. Some rabbinical leaders have urged limitations on the amount people can spend on a band, food, flowers etc., and I support that.

Thelma Barnell, retired

Read Comments (1)

Sumptuary Laws
Date 10:01, 01-29, 10

In earlier times Kehillohs had clear guidelines on making simchas, but it is more difficult today to enforce such rules. Our shul has quite a decent hall and it was rented by other shuls for extravagant hot fleishig kidushes. Many years back the congregation voted to set a condition that our hall cannot be used for hot or fleishig kiddushes and that no music may be played at Bar Mitzvah dinners in our hall. The sisterhood also set out a 'standard' kiddush which members agreed to. If each shul set its own standards that would be a beginning in the fight against extravagance.

Joe Feld