Senate Resolution No. 2427

BY: Senator MAYER

COMMEMORATING the 100th Anniversary of
Congregation Kol Ami of White Plains, New York on
May 16, 2024

WHEREAS, The quality and character of life in New York State is
greatly enriched by its religious institutions and the faithful and
generous service of those who devote themselves to endeavors of family,
faith, and community; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
commend institutions of such magnanimous conduct and bearing which
demonstrate a deep and continuing concern for others, and in so doing,
inspire others to do the same; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 100th Anniversary of Congregation Kol Ami of White
Plains, New York, to be celebrated on Thursday, May 16, 2024; and

WHEREAS, Congregation Kol Ami, originally named the Jewish Community
Center, was founded in 1923 with approximately 50 families holding
religious services and Sunday school in a variety of locations; the
families chose the name "Jewish Community Center" because they felt it
bound them to the community they served; and

WHEREAS, Within just three years, the Jewish Community Center built
a Synagogue and religious school on Sterling Avenue in White Plains, New
York, where they continued to thrive for the next 20 years until moving
to their current location on Soundview Avenue in 1946; and

WHEREAS, In 1994, the Jewish Community Center changed its name to
Congregation Kol Ami, "the Voice of My People," to reflect every aspect
of Temple life, from worship to social action; in addition, the name
connotates warmth, welcome, friendship, fellowship and family; and

WHEREAS, Over the years, as the congregation has grown, renovations
were completed within the social hall, auditorium, lobby, and sanctuary;
the beautiful new sanctuary creates a uniquely spiritual environment for
worship and provides easy access for all members; and

WHEREAS, Remaining true to its purpose, Congregation Kol Ami
continues to nurture the divine spark within, and connects each of its
members to a meaningful Jewish journey; and

WHEREAS, Under the able leadership of Senior Rabbi Jason Fenster,
Congregation Kol Ami now stands on the threshold of tomorrow, prepared
to meet the challenges of the coming decades, while retaining that
spiritual resolve which has so characterized its glorious past; and

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to take note of
enduring religious institutions and to bring such institutions to the
attention of the people of this Empire State; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 100th Anniversary of Congregation Kol Ami, confident
that this commemoration reflects the belief in those values which
enhance the dignity and purpose of life; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Congregation Kol Ami of White Plains, New York.