UnOrthodox choices in Charleston . . .

My how the scene has changed? A little more than a year ago, Orthodox Jewish Charleston was no more than it had been for the last 30 years. BSBI had its never-ending struggle, gently ( or not-so-gently ) declining over time, with its aging establishment on Rutledge Avenue, and its backward mentality, steeped in the wisdom of rational modernity: "The shul that I (and /or my children ) don't go to, must stay downtown" the substance of its thinking. And "If you want to be observant, move downtown or to South Windemere!" its other favorite words of wisdom.



BSBI's truly Orthodox Annex in South Windemere had its own ups-and-downs, but still holds out after 30 years. Long treated as second-class members by its parent body, the "Minyan House" remains there in the little house that contravenes the zoning laws of its residential surroundings. Frankly, both downtown and South Windemere have priced themselves out of the "young family" market, and now the last of any goodwill has been spent as well. (Call and ask President Berlin, and he will fill you in. Just ask about the agenda of his special bored meeting.)



But suddenly, there are new, and real, choices at hand. For one, there is Chabad of Mount Pleasant, which will in time attract a following of newcomers to Charleston. For another, there is a new focus at the JCC on Wallenburg Boulevard. Here you will find the area's largest attendance at regular Shabbat services. With a friendly atmosphere, and lots of warmth.



This is not the only sign of life West of the Ashley. AHA has had another banner year, the JCC Camp program is larger than ever before, and the JCC swim team boasts 90 swimmers, and have won all of their first 3 meets.



As always, choice is good for the consumer - do you want something vibrant and dynamic, or something old and stuffy? Something glowing with promise, or glowing with fresh paint?



Ever wandered why the New WAM has such traction even without a pulpit rabbi to lead it? A little birdie told me it was so BSBI would see that these years of their decline were not due to the personality and character of their rabbi, but the folly of their location!



Oops, Watch the birdie!