KA CC Archive May 2024

This week, I began receiving a Daily Campus Crisis Report by email from the Anti-Defamation League (ADL). What? Yes, this email features firsthand accounts from campuses around the United States, including photographs and videos direct from the many protests. There are a variety of articles providing information on the “encampments” and efforts around the country being made to combat these antisemitic efforts. The Crisis Report also lists colleges from around our country and provides details on what is happening on these campuses. The most recent report lists seven colleges, the type of protests that are happening and even documents the number of arrests that have been made. While I support our First Amendment right to free speech, what is happening on many of the campuses goes far beyond free speech. It enters into the world of harassment and blatant hatred. Students and faculty have the right to walk through their campuses, free from intimidation. Please keep our students from Kol Ami and the members of our congregation who work on college campuses in your prayers.

On a lighter note…I would like to congratulate Michael “Doc” Binder for being named this year’s Mike Korenvaes Brotherhood Man of the Year. Doc continues to dedicate himself to the ideals of Brotherhood and serves the synagogue in many various capacities. Congratulations for an honor well-deserved, and thank you for your dedication to the Brotherhood and Kol Ami. I would also like to thank Jon Zimmer for hosting a lovely ceremony and accompanying brunch.

On May 3rd, Kol Ami held the installation of our new 2024-2025 Board of Trustees. I would like to welcome our trustees…new, continuing, and those who have renewed their term to this year’s Board. This group of volunteers is dedicated to making Kol Ami a community where everyone can find their place. Please come say hello to our new Board at services and other events sponsored by the synagogue. These folks are easily identifiable wearing their Kol Ami name badges.

B’ Shalom,

Kevin Cross