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.