Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rockland County has received a $450,000 federal grant to fight opioid abuse in Rockland County.

I live in the mid-Hudson Valley, technically “up North.” I often visit my mother who is currently living in a nearby nursing home. I used to have conversations with one of her co-residents, (I’ll call her Mrs. P).

As one of the parents whose child participated in Beth Quinn’s book discussion of the new, beautifully illustrated version of “Little Black Sambo,” I weigh in on the side of those who don’t want to see the book, in its original context, republished in any form or fashion.

For a bedtime snack after service one Sunday night, I fixed my then 5-year old son a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, which he happily ate while sitting in the kitchen. I go to his room to get his Monday school clothes ready and hear him run from the kitchen. The next thing I hear – 'BAM!!! I run to the kitchen and find him lying on the floor with a mouth full of blood!

As one of the parents whose child participated in Beth Quinn’s book discussion of the new, beautifully illustrated version of “Little Black Sambo,” I weigh in on the side of those who don’t want to see the book, in its original context, republished in any form or fashion.

Maybe that’s because, just when I seem to be catching my stride, a roadblock or detour appears. And in this particular season of my life, there are many detours and roadblocks on my path. Of course, I would be thrilled if they could all be removed – or immediately eradicated.

Picture this: you're having your morning or evening devotional, or you're on your way to work, washing the dishes, on an afternoon jog – whatever, next thing you know, the still, small voice of God speaks to you and says: ------------!!!!!