
I started writing this (mostly) weekly article soon after taking on this CEO role as a way of connecting with our Jewish community. I like to share personal observations about the rhythm of Jewish life, world events as they affect the Jewish community and, of course, Israel. I try to keep away from politics, offering opinions, or regurgitating material readily available from credible news services.
I appreciate feedback and enjoy online relationships started as a result of this piece. Perhaps my favorite response to any of my articles was from a gentleman who wrote, “Rob, your weekly article is my only connection to Judaism.” Wow. No pressure there.
Perhaps out of fear that after eleven years, I may be running out of things to write about, several Federation committees have asked me to use my space to promote their activities. I’ll try to package some of them up for you today.
1. The marketing team wants me to write about our incredibly successful Chanukah on Jay this past Sunday. Again, we were bursting at the seams in Proctors with hundreds in attendance representing the full diversity of our Jewish community. I so appreciate those who showed up with Jewish stars visible around their necks expressing their pride in publicly expressing their Judaism. Thank you to our primary partners, Capital Chabad, and the rest of the Jewish communal organizations who produced the day with us.
2. Marketing also wants me to write about our two billboards generously sponsored by anonymous donors. One is on I-90 East between exits 4 and 5, the other is on I-890 West.
3. Our interfaith committee asked that I write about our ongoing efforts and participation with other faith groups, including my most recent attendance at the Hindu Diwali fireworks celebration in the parking lot of our local Hindu Temple, and sharing coffee at the local Turkish Cultural Center.
4. Our committee on aging asked that I write about the coordination of efforts among our many local Jewish community organizations that offer services to our seniors including Daughters of Sarah Senior Community, Jewish Family Services, and both Jewish community centers (Albany and Schenectady).
5. Our campaign team asked that I gently remind people that while our 2025 campaign is open, our 2024 campaign is not yet closed. It is your philanthropy that allows us to do all the good work that we do—locally and around the world—in support of the Jewish people. Please consider a gift today. https://jewishfedny.givingfuel.com/give.
Stay tuned for new initiatives starting in 2025. I’m sure that we’ll have many things to talk about.