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It started with a simple passing of a hat at a Temple board meeting and has since evolved into an integral part of Temple Sinai's Social Action Committee initiative, a Temple news release explains. Some years ago, a Temple board member casually suggested sending little gift packages to Jewish members of the Armed Forces serv- ing overseas. "The idea struck a chord with the Temple Sinai board members and, soon, the congregation as a whole," the release continues. Before long, the project found a home in the Social Action Committee and it became an ongoing effort, undertaken three times a year, the release says. The packages first went to troops in Iraq and Afghanistan for the obser- vances of Rosh Hashanah, Hanukah and Passover. Inside were paperback books, magazines, music CDs and movie DVDs, which Temple members had collected. Snacks of hard candy, nuts and gum were added, the release notes. Then, items appropriate to the holiday were included, such as honey for the New Year and dreidels at Hanukah. Packages continue to be sent to soldiers serv- ing overseas, enclosing the above items as well as handmade greeting cards and draw- ings saying, "Thank you for your service," the release adds. These cards are often made by TEMPLE SINAI SENDS CARE PACKAGES TO TROOPS OVERSEAS Betty Liner (left) and Nita Ettinger proudly display the certificate of appreciation presented to Temple Sinai from a squadron in a cavalry regiment for the care packages the soldiers received. Contributed photo Sarasota News Leader May 2, 2014 Page 108