Morrell Wins Round Against Woodbury Jewish Center

Morrell Caterers , according to a New York State Supreme Court decision on Friday.

Judge Vito M. DeStefano ruled that the contract, extending through June of 2029, between Woodbury Jewish Center and Morrell Caterers doesn't have a proper termination clause in case of a breach. Despite the temple's claims that keeping Morrell on their property would harm their finances, it was not enough to go through with the eviction at that time.

In February, Woodbury Jewish Center served Morrell Caterers, citing breach of contract and violation of Jewish principles.

"Replacing him with a kosher caterer of unquestioned and impeccable integrity will inspire the confidence sorely needed," Woodbury Jewish Center's Rabbi Shmuel Adler.

In his ruling, DeStefano acknowledged the current battle between Morrell and Woodbury Jewish Center, but said it was "improper" to grant the temple injunctive relief when they couldn't prove they would "suffer irreparable harm."

"Common sense and justice has been sustained," reacted Morrell Caterers owner Scott Morrell, saying it strengthened his "desire to pursue mediation and rational discussion to create a solution that will end our differences."

Morrell Caterers is at the center of a kosher dispute that rocked the Jewish community in February when . Rabbis from surrounding synagogues as news broke that Morrell was accused of violating Jewish laws, telling employees to prepare kosher and non-kosher in the same vicinity.

Woodbury Jewish Center was not immediately available for comment as of this report.