[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 160 (Thursday, October 2, 2008)]
[Senate]
[Page S10472]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      TRIBUTE TO JUDGE AVERN COHN

  Mr. LEVIN. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize a great citizen 
of Michigan, the Honorable Avern Cohn. Avern has distinguished himself 
as a leader among leaders in Michigan's legal community and the 
Michigan community at large. Later this month Avern's synagogue, 
Congregation Shaarey Zedek, will offer a tribute to him and I am 
honored to join in recognizing his many accomplishments and 
contributions to our community life that he has so strengthened and 
supported.
  Professionally, for nearly three decades Judge Cohn has served on the 
U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan. He currently 
serves as the Senior Judge, a position he has held for the past nine 
years. His quick wit and sharp mind have left a lasting impression on 
the countless attorneys who have argued before him. Throughout his 
career, Avern's guiding beacon has been justice, and his legacy is one 
of true independence and impartiality.
  Avern's commitment to justice in Michigan has extended well beyond 
his courtroom. He is a past director of the Detroit Bar Association, a 
former trustee of the Detroit Bar Foundation, and served as director of 
the American Judicature Society. Before he was appointed to the court, 
he led a successful private practice that continues to flourish today. 
He also served the people of Michigan in an array of positions 
including as chairperson of the Michigan Civil Rights Commission, 
chairperson of the Detroit Board of Police Commissioners, and as a 
member of the Michigan Social Welfare Commission.
  As a member of the board of trustees of Shaarey Zedek, a former 
president of the Jewish Welfare Federation of Metropolitan Detroit, and 
a past vice president of the American Jewish Committee, Avern has used 
his intellect and drive to the great benefit of our Jewish community. 
He has also helped bring the focus and resources of these organizations 
to the fight for the poorest and most vulnerable among us. He is a 
mensch in the truest sense: his wholehearted dedication to a host of 
noble causes has marked his character and his life.
  I should mention as well that it was Avern's father who introduced my 
parents to each other. I am proud to call Avern my cousin.
  Avern is recognized far and wide as a rarity. All who have known him, 
who have had the good fortune to work with him, or who have come before 
him are appreciative of his unique commitment to doing what is right. 
Many who have never heard his name have benefited and will continue to 
benefit from his lifetime of good deeds. Barb joins me in offering our 
thanks and congratulations to Avern. Mazel Tov!

                          ____________________