A few tidbits/ announcements:

- There's an interesting article in the New York Times called Judging Spinoza, in which arguments are offered as to why the cherem on him should not be lifted. Although the article engages in some strange backtracking at the end, it makes some very valid points.

- I am available for a scholar-in-residence weekend in the US for Shabbos of August 2nd. Please write to me if you want to arrange it.

- There are still four spots left on the Africa expedition at the end of June! Everyone who goes says that it's the best trip that they've ever done. See the Torah in Motion website for details and signup.

- Finally, here's a great video of "God Bless America" being sung by people that you wouldn't expect to see singing it: