Author Andrew Solomon at Congregation Kol Ami

Synaplex at Congregation Kol Ami on November 14 will feature Andrew Solomon, best-selling author of "Far From the Tree". Andrew Solomon is a writer and lecturer on psychology, politics, and the arts; winner of the National Book Award; and an activist in LGBT rights, mental health and the arts. His best-selling book, Far from the Tree, is a journey of generosity, acceptance and tolerance...and that love can transcend all prejudice. The New York Times hailed the book, writing, "It's a book everyone should read...there's no one who wouldn't be a more imaginative and understanding parent - or human being - for having done so... a wise and beautiful book." He lives with his husband and son in New York and London and is a dual national.

Congregation Kol Ami's Synaplex™ Initiative is a series of monthly Friday night events that explore the Jewish experience. Its flexible format includes music, dance, spiritual exploration, guest speakers, children's programming, films, ice-cream socials, and other activities.

The evening's schedule opens at 5:00 pm with Explorations in Jewish Music with our new Cantor, David Rosen our accompanist, Lenora Eve. Come and Join us as we unpack the magic of Kabbalat Shabbat. "Shiru Ladonai Shir Chadash-Sing a New Song unto God"---be one of the first people to preview and learn some of the exciting new melodies that will be introduced during our Friday night worship this year.

Following Explorations there is a get together with hors d'oeuvres in Kol Ami's main building. At 5:30 pm there is also Shabbat in the Woods, a service of story and song for families with young children (newborn - kindergarten) followed by free childcare and a light supper.

At the heart of Synaplex™ at Kol Ami are Friday night religious services ushering in the Sabbath at 6:15 pm in the main sanctuary. Religious services will be followed by dinner at 7:15p.m. After dinner, at 8:15 pm, while adults listen to the keynote speaker, young children have a choice of making sandwiches and snacks for a local homeless shelter, arts and crafts and Supervised Sports and Games with Coach Steve Stone, and/or attending the evenings Main Event, if age appropriate. The evening concludes with a festive Oneg at 9:30 pm.

Synaplex™ events are open to both temple members and non-members. All events are free with the exception of the dinner, which costs $25 for adults, $18 for children and teens, and free for children under 5. Reservations are necessary for dinner. For more information or to make a dinner reservation, please call Ilene Miller at 949-4717 ext. 115.