Special Updates
June 8, 2020
Update from President Leslie Kidder
Dear Members of Congregation Emanuel of the Hudson Valley,
I am writing to let you know that our beloved cantor, Bob Cohen, will transition to the position of Cantor Emeritus as of June 30th, 2020. He will celebrate his final Shabbat as our cantor this Friday night (6/12) and Saturday morning (6/13). Please look for details about a special Zoom Kiddush in honor of Cantor Bob on Friday night here.
Cantor Bob has been a pillar of the CEHV community since the day he walked through the doors. His soulful music has added a deeply emotional dimension to our services, and he has touched our hearts with joy, humor, and above all, compassion. And how lucky for us that his kind, thoughtful wife, Pat, has generously contributed her ideas, time, and lovely singing voice as well. Together, the Cohens convinced so many of us that we could find our Jewish home in Kingston inside our shul.
In recognition of all they mean to us, Bob and Pat will receive a special lifetime CEHV membership. Bob will also receive an honorarium in heartfelt gratitude for his work, although there is no way to place sufficient monetary value on his leadership, friendship, and devotion. We hope the Cohens will remain involved members of our congregation for many years to come.
Sincerely,
Leslie Kidder
President, CEHV
March 10, 2020
Message from President Leslie Kidder
Our Congregation prides itself on our sense of community and our frequent events and services. During this time of concern about Covid-19 and the many unknowns that come with it, we will be relying on local medical professionals, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Ulster County Health Department to advise us on the safety of hosting events and school at CEHV.
The Executive Board, in consultation with the planners, has decided to cancel the Second Night Seder and the Women's Seder. We can not predict what will happen in the next month and we want to avoid low attendance or last-minute cancellations.
We will be posting and sending frequent updates to keep you all apprised and will make decisions about large events coming up on our calendar as we go, keeping in mind that safety is our foremost concern. We ask that, if you or any member of your family is feeling at all under the weather, please stay home. This will keep us all safer.
The CDC has additional information about the symptoms and travel guidelines.
Thank you,
Leslie Kidder
President, Congregation Emanuel of the Hudson Valley