March 20, 2020
R OCKLAND NEWS
‘Let’s be guided by science’
Local rabbis discuss difficult decisions and long-term implications of the coronavirus

In response to the novel coronavirus and the threat it poses, the local Jewish community in northern New Jersey and Rockland County responded in novel, far-reaching, dramatic ways. In perhaps a textbook example of decisiveness, its leaders took steps that were difficult — hard even to think about, much less to put into words and issue as requirements.

They probably – and in ways that cannot be proven, because how can you prove something that doesn’t happen? — have saved many lives.
What does it feel like?
Local musician diagnosed with the virus recounts his experience

What does it feel like to have Covid-19?

From everything we hear, there is a range of symptoms. At the very worst, people die; we don’t yet know what percentage of infections end in death. They’re relatively rare, we do know that, but not insignificant.
Celebrating black history in Rockland
Recently, Rockland County legislators Aron Wieder and Toney L. Earl joined Spring Valley Police Detective Reginald Anderson to celebrate Black History Month at Yeshiva Degel Hatorah in Spring Valley. They were introduced by Rabbi Asher Schwab, the school’s dean. A discussion focused on why Black History month was established and the importance of celebrating the accomplishments and acknowledge the struggles of African-Americans.
Yet more thoughts on Covid-19: It’s difficult to think of much else these days
EDITOR’S NOTE: After she wrote this piece, Rabbi Drill’s synagogue was closed and she entered self-quarantine due to a congregant’s diagnosis of Covid-19. She still stands by these words, perhaps even more so.

My youngest son, Josh, flew back to Israel this afternoon after three months in the United States, following completion of his army service.

As soon as he lands, he will go straight to his apartment, where he will begin 14 days of quarantine. His roommates will leave food for him outside his bedroom door, and whenever he emerges, he will need to wipe down every surface he touches. Josh has a great attitude about the quarantine, explaining that he has a lot to read and will have plenty of time to prepare for his entrance exams for Tel Aviv University. The quarantine is inconvenient and worrisome, but it is required by Israeli law and certainly not devastating for Josh. 
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