AKO Establish Liquor Committee to Confront Changing Kashrus Status

Posted by Menachem Lubinsky on February 8, 2010 under Kashrus Organization, Kosher | View Comments

By Menachem Lubinsky

Chicago… A bottle of Scotch at a Kiddush in Monsey is quickly removed by the local rabbi after he had received word that the kashrus of the brand was in question. This scene has been repeating itself with increasing frequency, prompting the Association of Kashrus Organizations (AKO) to establish a Liquor Committee. According to Rabbi Sholem Fishbane, the executive director of AKO, the purpose of the committee will be “to keep up with the latest fast developing changes in the liquor world and how it affects its kashrus status.” Three sub-committees were formed to focus on Scotch, Beer, and American and Canadian whiskeys. AKO is preparing to host a Vaadim (local kashrus committees) Convention in Dallas on February 22 and 23. Over 60 representatives from the local kashrus committees will be meeting to discuss standards that affect their respective jurisdictions including; Savannah, Oregon, San Antonia, Nova Scotia, Florida, Houston, Detroit, Kansas, Waterbury, Minnesota, Atlanta, Chicago, and New York.

Kosher Agencies Said to Focus on Training of Mashgichim and Food Service Standards

Posted by Menachem Lubinsky on January 13, 2010 under Kashrus Organization | View Comments

Chicago… The annual Vaadim Convention, sponsored by the Association of Kashrus Organizations (AKO) is set to address two major concerns of the kashrus community. Scheduled to meet in Dallas February 22-23, the kashrus officials will discuss programs to train mashgichim and setting standards for kosher foodservice establishments. The Vaadim are part of a network of local and regional kashrus committees that in recent years have played a significant role in the expanding kosher food world. AKO is headed by Rabbi Sholem Fishbane of the Chicago Rabbinical Council who also serves as the executive director of the umbrella kashrus agency. Rabbi Sholey Klein of Dallas will serve as the event chairman.