Rabbi’s Column
What a lovely way to celebrate Shabbat when we honored Robin Bass as she steps down from serving as RTPV president for 5 years. Her children, Alison Jolicoeur, Town Supervisor of Putnam Valley, all of the rabbis with whom she worked, Rabbis Steve, Laurie and Andy, and fellow congregants all shared beautiful words as did Robin as she shared her journey.
Let us recognize the importance not only of the president’s tenure but of every volunteer’s work within RTPV. Without each and every one of them, without exaggeration, RTPV would be less creative, less spiritual, less safe, less learned, less well fed. Thank you.
Let us expand our appreciation to all of those volunteers we encounter in the course of each day who enable our corner of the world and every corner of the world to function.
As we celebrate our beloved country’s 250th, let us realize that the strength of America is each of us. Every time we help, say a kind word, make our voice heard, reach out to someone who is isolated, try to meet someone’s need, work toward justice we live the words “by the people, for the people.” Whether our “yes” is accompanied by a title or not, the result has strengthened the fabric of society. As we move toward July 4th and beyond, choose a way to offer your skills, your compassion, your love as a gift to our country which will also be a gift to yourself. Happy July 4th!
Etgar 36 Southeast Civil Rights Journey, October 18-20, 2026
Our trip is a go! Though the initial deadline has passed, you may still be able to join us! If interested, please contact rtpvinfo@gmail.com. Please note: After July 8th there may not be accommodations available at all of the hotels but we will definitely check on it for you.