2016 50th Anniversary Journal by Woodlands Community Temple

Saturday, June 7, 2014

Woodlands Community Temple Celebrates our

50th Anniversary

Jubilee Gala Saturday, June 4, 2016 at the Stone Manor 101 101 Saw Mill River Rd Hawthorne, NY 10532

Woodlands Community Temple 50 Worthington Road White Plains, NY 10607 914.592.7070 wct.org

Woodlands Community Temple 1966 - Present Presidents Alan Horowitz (Selma) Robert Stone (Nancy) Jack Safirstein (Sue) Carol Panzer Ed Kleban (Carol) Carol Panzer Joel Leifer Alan Mitelman (Bonnie) Larry Gralla (Yvette) Bob Rosen (Judy) Renee Trell (Ed) Sy Donner (Sarah) Jay Izes (Lois) Terrie Kaplan (Alan) Sheila Sweet (Dick) Steve Levin (Terri) Lois Green (Jerry) Maxine Howard (Steve Jacobs) Lance Rosenthal (Sura) David Fligel (Dayle) Chuck Fishman (Nancy) Rochelle Stolzenberg (Jeff Frankle) Stu Berlowitz (Karen) Dayle Fligel (David)

Cantors 1966-1968 1968-1970 1970-1972 1972-1973 1973-1974 1974-1975 1975-1977 1977-1979 1979-1981 1981-1983 1983-1985 1985-1987 1987-1989 1989-1991 1991-1993 1993-1995 1995-1998 1998-2001 2001-2004 2004-2006 2006-2009 2009-2012 2012-2015 2015-

Rabbis Rabbi Samuel Kehati Rabbi Stephen Forstein Rabbi Sanford Ragins Rabbi Peter Rubinstein Rabbi Charles Lippman Interim Rabbi Aaron Petuchowski Interim Rabbi Rabbi Mark Dov Shapiro Rabbi Billy Dreskin Interim Rabbi Rabbi Avi Magid Rabbi Lisa Izes Sabbatical Rabbi Rabbi Mara Young Sabbatical Rabbi Rabbi Mara Young Assistant Rabbi Rabbi Billy Dreskin

1966-1967 (part-time) 1967-1968 1968-1972 1972-1981 (Sabbatical, 1980-1981) 1981-1982 Fall 1982 Jan 1983-1988 1988-1989 1989-1995 Jan-Jun 2005 Jan-Jun 2012 2012-13 1995-

Glen Groper Student Cantor Cantor Paul Silbersher Cantor Burton Borovetz Ellen Dreskin Student Cantor Josee Woolf Student Cantor Julie Yugend-Green Student Cantor Cantor Julie Yugend-Green Cantor Jonathan Gordon

1969-1970 1971-1979 1979-1985 1985-1986 1989-1991 1991-1994 1994-1997 1998-

Directors of Congregational Learning Irwin Engel Larry Davis Sam Seicol Dina Katz-Epstein Cantor Ellen Dreskin Deborah Wasserman Harriet Levine Rabbi Mara Young

1972-1973 1973-1976 1976-1978 1978-1986 1986-1989 1989-1992 1992-2013 2013-

Directors of Youth Engagement Nicole Butler Scott Newman Ross Glinkenhouse Tara Levine

2002-2003 2004-2008 2008-2015 2015-

Rabbinic Interns Danny Zemel Neil Comess-Daniels Elyse Frishman Aaron Petuchowski Elka Abrahamson Billy Dreskin Robyn Tsesarsky Josh Davidson Serena Fujita Fred Greene Leora Kaye Darren Levine Craig Axler Vicki Armour-Hileman Judith Siegal Corey Friedlander Erin Glazer Rachel Shafran Mara Young Rachel Maimin Andy Dubin Daniel Geffen Allie Klein Jason Fenster Andi Feldman

1976 1977-1979 1979-1981 1981-1983 1983-1985 1985-1988 1992-1995 Summer 1996 Summer 1997 1997-1999 1999-2000 2000-2002 Summer 2002 2002-2003 Summer 2003 20032007-2009 Summer 2008 2009-2011 Summer 2011 Summer 2013 2013-14 Summer 2014 2014Summer 2015

Dear friends, What do you get when you put 11 rabbis, 7 cantors, 8 directors of congregational learning, 4 youth directors, 25 rabbinic interns, 24 presidents and hundreds of Board of Trustees members together with a special secret sauce which is YOU our community? You get 50 years of building the Woodlands Way. Evident in so many aspects of Woodlands life – from the youngest member to the oldest, from the founding member to the newest – everyone is part of the integral pieces of the Woodlands puzzle. That’s the Woodlands Way. 50 years ago, our founders got together to create a place that was not their parents’ synagogue. A welcoming, democratic community that allows its members to be free to express themselves with no judgments attached. When they first blew their shofar and opened their doors, believing that “If you build it, they will come,” the next 50 years saw WCT flourish as people flowed in and out of our doors. Each member that has left his/her footprint in our halls and has added to the tapestry of our rich history. From the inception of Woodlands Community Temple, we have always been on the leading-edge of Jewish life, ahead of our time, an over-achiever in creating a vibrant Jewish life for ourselves. Our doors are open to all who want to share in our worship, in our community, and in our family. So many say that the past is not a prologue to the future. However, the "Woodlands Way" is an ever-evolving and enduring philosophy, one that will usher us well into our next 50 years. We all know that Woodlands would not be Woodlands without our middle name. As defined by Merriam-Webster's dictionary, a community is a group of people who live in the same area, share the same interest (for us, Judaism) and are a unified body. It is this sense of community that holds us together, and that paves the way for our next 50 years. So with the first 50 behind us, we move forward into our future. Woodlands continues to embody the three pillars of Judaism: Torah (learning), Avodah (worship), and Gemilut Hasadim (acts of love and kindness). But this will only remain possible with, as I mentioned in the beginning, the secret sauce – YOU, our community. Through continued engagement and financial support, we will together insure that future generations will receive the same opportunity that our founders gave to us: the beauty of experiencing “the Woodlands Way.” So let’s raise our glasses high, and let “L'hayyim” not only mean “to life,” but “to the future of Woodlands.”

Dayle Fligel, President Woodlands Community Temple

Dear friends, On March 25, 1985 (and I know the exact date because I used pocket calendars back then and, pack-rat that I am, I still have them all), I entered a classroom at HUC where I was studying to become a rabbi and met the people who would change the course of my life forever: the rabbinic intern interview committee of Woodlands Community Temple. I remember wanting this internship as much as any candidate we’ve ever interviewed during my 21 years as your rabbi. Three days later, I traveled up to Westchester for my “callback” interview and met more of the members of this extraordinary temple. I instantly fell in love with the place and was overjoyed (actually, “blown away” more accurately captures my reaction) when the call came inviting me to become your 6th rabbinic intern. Thus began a love affair between me and Woodlands Community Temple. I happily served as your intern – watching over the youth program (then known as Solel and WCTY), participating in Shabbat Evening services (with Rabbi Mark Dov Shapiro and student cantor Ellen Dreskin), closely guarding my sermon texts (which Steve Zizmor was always threatening to steal), and counting my lucky stars that I got to spend two years in this incredible community. I never imagined that Ellen, once ordained, would stay on as Cantor-Educator and that I would hang around for an additional two heavenly years as your “part-time Assistant Rabbi” (ie, intern with a rabbinical degree) and then as “Interim Rabbi” before heading off to Fairmount Temple in Cleveland. I learned a lot in Cleveland about being a rabbi. But here’s the thing. If I’d attached Woodlands to the back of my car and brought it there with me, I could have fit our entire building inside Fairmount’s front lobby. I loved working there but I had two dreams I was waiting to fulfill. First, I never wanted to be a rabbi at a megacongregation. That wasn’t me. I wanted a place where I could get to know everybody and fulfill my second dream: to stay in one place for an entire generation. When the call came to interview for the position of rabbi at Woodlands, I was stunned. Every rabbinic intern dreams of one day becoming a rabbi here but, thus far, it had never been done. Former interns would go on to greatness elsewhere, but come back to Woodlands? Who could be that lucky? (We’ll talk about Mara another time.) Well, to this day I’m not sure how it happened. Perhaps it was an airborne agent that temporarily clouded the good judgement of the search committee. Or maybe you caught me in a rare moment of rabbinic excellence. Whatever it was, I’m now what I easily describe as the luckiest rabbi on the planet. For the past 21 years, I have had the great fortune of getting to come to 50 Worthington Road and play in your temple. Add that to the first four years I hung around here and that places me at Woodlands Community Temple for 25 of your 50 years. I may not have the standing of a founding family or even one of your longtime members, but I’ve seen (and even better, been part of) WCT in the 1980s, 1990s, 2000s, and 2010s. Ellen and I have built our spiritual home here. Our children have grown up here. You and I have learned together, prayed together, and worked to change the world together. And the best part? At 50 years old, we’re just getting started! Happy birthday, you beautiful synagogue you. How lucky we all are to be part of such a magnificent home! In friendship and shalom,

Rabbi Billy Dreskin

Now we are at the Golden anniversary of our remarkable spiritual home. At this moment, my undeniable emotion is gratitude. I came to Woodlands seeking a new experience and fulfilling work. That I found, and more. Woodlands seemed dedicated to humane values, to service and celebration. My first interview felt more like a date than an audition. I believed that God could dwell in a place like this. I still believe it. My 18 years appear to me in faces that I see. 35 kids each year who turn to me for Bat and Bar Mitzvah preparation. Worshippers in services, reflective in prayer, open in song. People talking in the parking lot even after the 11 o'clock lights go out, doing the business of creating community by sharing their lives. Men and women on the picket line, Monday and Thursday mornings, protesting the build-up to the invasion of Iraq. Kids playing in the front yard at our school picnic and Sabbath barbeques. Adults seeking advanced Jewish learning, and kids coming to visit while on their college break. People with illness, people suffering loss, people celebrating marriage and birth. People building families. People seeking enlightenment, seeking community, seeking meaning, seeking God. I see the faces of you who have become my friends and my spiritual family. I am moved to make a blessing for the Woodlands Community. I pray that Woodlands shall retain its tender and remarkable soul. May we always try to do the right thing, and never lose its impulse to find joy. These are great gifts God has implanted in our sturdy community. May we honor the best within us, and sustain a place where God can happily dwell. Lekh lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;shalom,

Cantor Jonathan Gordon

Some coincidences strike you as something more. For example, 2016 marks my seventh year as part of the Woodlands Community Temple community. It feels auspicious because we’re celebrating Woodlands’ Jubilee year – the 50�� year – which the Torah decrees we observe after seven cycles of seven year sabbaticals. Personally, it feels like a beautiful dovetail of a communal and a personal milestone.

Seven years is enough to feel settled in a place, which is probably why the Torah commands that after six years of working the land, we must allow a year of rest. It’s been worked diligently. After a year of laying fallow, it’s rejuvenated. Perhaps the farmer has new methods and strategies to enhance the next round of planting and harvesting. The soil is renewed and refocused. That same sense of “feeling settled” applies in the case of a rabbi. After seven years you start to feel more intimately connected to those you serve because seven years is enough to have walked the highs and lows of life’s terrain. Professionally, you’ve gained enough perspective to look out over the synagogue landscape and ask, “What can we look at differently? What now?” But this is just one seventh of what Woodlands as an institution is experiencing.

The Jubilee year acts as a reminder that this refocus, rededication, and renewal has happened many times before … and that is a wonderful thing! Seven cycles later, new visions and new voices have tended to the Woodlands soil, keeping it healthy and vibrant. Our strength is that we remain committed to the ideals of our founders while welcoming the creativity and fresh perspective of those who have joined over the years. Woodlands, much like the earth, belongs to all of us and none of us. When introducing the concept of the Jubilee year, Leviticus 25:23 states: “The land shall not be sold in perpetuity, for the land is Mine. For you are strangers and sojourners with Me.”

This Jubilee celebration should serve as a reminder that we all are spiritual sojourners. Our synagogue is the environment where we journey. While it is certainly not time to let things “lay fallow,” it’s a moment to feel connected in purpose and optimistic about what will be. My family and I are honored to be part of the journey. B’shalom,

Rabbi Mara

Dear WCT Family, Thank you for helping make my first year as your Director of Youth Engagement at WCT full of joy, fun, learning, warmth, and happiness. I feel lucky to have joined you at the same time you're in celebration of Woodlands' 50th year. Then again, I'd be lucky to be here any year! This community is really special. When I first moved to New York for my job, I had a feeling I was doing something right, but I didn't know exactly what I was getting myself into. Sure, there are plenty of nice synagogues around, but Woodlands is different. When I got into a car accident soon after I moved to White Plains, WCT staff and members were the first people I talked to and who checked up on me. It helped me see â&#x20AC;&#x201C; WCT isn't just a place, a makom; it's a family. It's a community. One time, I heard someone say, "Community is our middle name." This phrase has stuck with me since then. The fact that community literally is Woodlands' middle name speaks volumes to our priorities here. We don't use community as a lofty goal; rather, it's part of us and how we refer to ourselves. We are community, not just part of a community. You definitely can't find that everywhere. This year, I've had an incredible time, encountering some "firsts" in my career. I ran the 5th and 6th grade retreat, participated in planning the 9th grade Sexuality Retreat, flew to Orlando for my first URJ Biennial, went to Memphis on the Civil Rights Journey with 10th-12th graders, helped amp up the food choices at Academy with themed dinner nights, continued visioning our Youth and Family Engagement Committee with some hardworking and loving lay leaders, helped plan our 50th year Scavenger Hunt, and more. I've been learning every step of the way, and it's truly because of your help. I could not have done ANY of these things without your support, care, love, energy, and enthusiasm. I'll say it again; I feel so lucky to be part of this community, and thank you for taking me in with open arms. Here's to another 50 amazing years for WCT! Todah (thanks) again,

Tara Levine Director of Youth Engagement

Twenty years ago I needed to find a spiritual home. I had grown up in and been confirmed in a wonderful Reform congregation on Long Island in the 1950-1960's, where I'd been very active in the temple's youth group and in LIFTY. But as I reached my late twenties and recognized that I was gay, I couldn't find a welcoming home in the Jewish world at that time and so drifted away. As I entered my forties, I realized that my soul had shriveled and so began the search for a spiritual home that led me to Worthington Road. I visited many congregations in Westchester, all very nice, but none felt like home. Then some good friends and longtime members of Woodlands, Bonnie and Alan Mitelman, knowing of my search, invited me to the service at which their son, Geoff (now Rabbi Geoffrey), was the first graduate of the new high school program. At that service, as Geoff and some of the 11th graders spoke so movingly of what Judaism meant to them and of their challenges grappling with that meaning, I felt a strong sense of kinship with their struggles and strivings, started to cry halfway through the service, and said to myself: "I'm home." Indeed I was … and still am. Woodlands has become my second family. My path of service at Woodlands opened up thanks to Vicki Armour-Hileman (now Rabbi Vicki). Vicki had been participating in the Sh'liakh K'hilah program, a two-year training program jointly offered by the Union for Reform Judaism, HUC-JIR, and the Central Conference of American Rabbis to give lay members of congregations a body of knowledge and a set of skills to be of service back home in helping to lead services, officiate at life-cycle events, and teach. As Vicki left the program (and Woodlands) to enter HUC-JIR as a rabbinical student, she said, "I think this will be good for you." She was right. I learned text and context from the cream of the crop of the HUC-JIR faculty. Clergy and educators near the Cincinnati campus taught me how to be truly present for congregants in moments joyous and sad. Most importantly, Rabbi Billy became … and remains … a remarkable mentor for me, teaching me not just how best to be of service here, but how to be a mentsch in doing so. And I am blessed by a congregation that tells me: "We're your safety net. If you're not falling on your face often enough, you're not reaching far enough." I feel so honored when youngsters invite me to participate in the service at which they become B'nai Mitzvah … and so privileged when ask to help officiate at an aufruf, a babynaming, a funeral, or an unveiling … along with every time I step onto our bimah to help lead a service. Being of service in this way as a volunteer fills my soul with joy and provides a delightfully healthy balance to my workaday life in the corporate world. What makes Woodlands particularly special for me? The warm friendships, the friendly acquaintances, the folks I meet for the first time … the smiles that greet me every time I walk through our doors. The learning from our learned professional staff and from each other … especially from each other. The culture of honor that values what each of us offers and gives to the community. The community … the community that we provide for each other and our participation in and contribution to the larger community outside our walls. The glass walls of our sanctuary that remind us of that larger community and of the ongoing need for tikkun olam, for repairing our alltoo-broken world. Woodlands shines at putting our teachings and our tradition to work as God's partners through acts of social justice and compassion. That is sacred work. This is why Woodlands has truly become my Makom Shelibi Oheyv … the place my heart holds dear. My hopes for the future? That we continue to grow as individuals and as a community. That, while not forsaking our roots, we continue to recognize that change is healthy, when it balances our individual needs with the needs of the community. That we continue to use the wisdom of our tradition and our sacred texts as guideposts on that path, supporting and honoring each other along the way. That I'm allowed the ongoing privilege of contributing to all this as best I can. Keyn y'hi ratzon … may this indeed be God's will.

Woodlands Community Temple Rabbinic Internship Description Cozy, forward-thinking, joyful Congregation in Greenburgh (it’s somewhere around Ardsley, Hartsdale, White Plains, and Dobbs Ferry…) seeks an intern for 10 to 98.5 hours/week to fulfill the following responsibilities: 1. Goof around on the bimah with rabbis, cantor, and (sometimes) the shaliakh kehilah From the different styles of worship, to the creativity required to prepare iyyunim each week, to the innovative use of technology, services are uplifting, moving, and something to look forward to each week. 2. Watch congregants dodge raindrops when the tent leaks during the High Holy Days And it’s not just Friday nights that are a pleasure! The way the community comes together for all of the holidays from Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur to our celebrations on Sukkot, Simkhat Torah, Hanukkah, Purim…the spirit and energy of this congregation just cannot be beat! 3. Eat pizza and travel the country with teenagers (not necessarily at the same time) Academy is just the best. How incredible that so many of the congregation’s young people commit to learn and be a part of community in the post-b’nai mitzvah years. The thoughtfulness, questions, and social consciousness of the Woodlands teenagers is nothing short of inspiring. They bode well for the future of the Jewish people. 4. Attend Board Meetings!! Some of the most important learning to experience at Woodlands is to the chance to see, up-close and personal, what spiritual, moral leadership looks like from a lay-level. The leadership of this congregation cares deeply about the people that comprise this community and makes even the most mundane conversations feel sacred. 5. Find inspiration around every corner Whether it’s conversations at oneg, during Hevra Torah, or on the way to or from the parking lot, inspiration is never in short supply. AND! The hour each week in the rabbi’s office will yield some of the most important rabbinic wisdom and learning during all five years of rabbinical school. 6. Other duties as assigned Woodlands allows its interns incredible latitude and opportunity to experiment in a safe environment. Whether ideas are hits or flops, the community is always there to provide, love, support, and encouragement. Compensation: Homemade challah, healthy Kashi bars, devotion and affection of congregants, hundreds of great stories, and incredible, lifelong mentors. To apply, you must have a positive attitude, sense of humor, and an innovative spirit. What an incredible job to have during my rabbinic studies. I’ll do my best to keep fulfilling my job requirements. Thank you for this incredible experience and for welcoming me and Gavi into your beautiful community. In peace and friendship,

Jason Fenster, Rabbinic Intern

Dear Friends, Almost 45 years ago, I delivered to the assembled congregation at Woodlands Community Temple my very first Rosh Hashanah sermon as a congregational rabbi. I slaved over that sermon. I wanted it to be brilliant and visionary in a kind of folksy "let's-get-to-know-each-other" style. But, as you know the world can change in an instant. And in that year, 1972, just three days before Rosh Hashanah eve, eleven Israeli athletes were massacred at the Munich Olympics. Rather than the sermon which I had meticulously prepared I delivered a sermon written quickly in a fit of anger and passion and which I realize now, 45 years later, proclaimed the principles that remain at the core of my rabbinic life. It established guidelines for the decisions I make. In speaking that evening about the botched German police rescue attempt at Munich, I committed myself and our congregation to battling anti-Semitism, to supporting Israel's precarious existence as a vocal and passionate defender of the Jewish people and to championing Jewish survival. Our devotion to Israel was again expressed in May 1974 when 25 hostages, 22 of whom were children, were killed in a terrorist attack on the town of Ma'alot. We hastened to memorialize the dead with a memorial plaque affixed to a rock in the midst of a grove of trees planted in memory and solidarity with the people of Israel. We also committed to visiting Israel which we did regularly as a congregation and with our Confirmation classes. In ways I could not have predicted I realize that in those early years at Woodlands I fell in love with the rabbinate and with synagogues and congregations. For 45 years now, I have been involved in a love affair with the Jewish people. During my rabbinate at Woodlands from 1972 to 1982, the culture of the congregation was refreshingly participatory with a professional-congregant partnership that was discussed as we marveled at how seamless and exceedingly easy it was. At that time, the congregational pulse quickened in matters of hands-on social justice. We were very involved in Project Ezra, the Fortune Society, numerous multi-faith relationships and ventures. Moreso the congregation instinctively responded when presented with a matter of injustice which needed to be addressed or the suffering of individuals which needed to be remedied. That was the backdrop for our involvement with the Huynh family, a Vietnamese family â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a mother and three children â&#x20AC;&#x201C; fleeing a war zone whom we decided to resettle. We eventually learned that there was a fourth child whom we brought from Hong Kong. (Their story has been formerly told during this year of celebration.) But as much as we cared about the world outside our walls, our congregation began to pay attention to our walls. We redid and redecorated the original mansion that from the beginning had housed all our activities. Then we built the extended glass enclosed sanctuary including an Ark, Reading Table and representation of the 10 commandments donated and fashioned by our own members. The Torah mantles were created by congregants sadly memorializing other young members who had died. But even as we built we did not give up on the High Holy Days tent. An entire Woodlands "culture" evolved around "the" tent. Congregants brought football blankets for body warmth and carpet remnants for foot comfort. There was no way to control the rain which turned the entrance aisles to mud paths which had the effect of sucking off the shoes of entering worshippers. And I'll never forget the time a member and friend whose parents deliberately raised him without teaching him Hebrew so he never became Bar Mitzvah. He was having an aliyah in the tent for the first time on the holidays. It was a big deal. But as soon as he began the recitation of the prayer, a powerful rain storm blew in and lightning hit just yards away from the tent. The thunder clap was deafening. Not a bit dazed by the shock of it all and as though expecting it our congregant announced "That was my father!" and the congregation intuitively understood. It was another singular Woodlands event. In reflecting on those years, special mention must be made of our ever-growing religious school and Confirmation class which I believe numbered in the sixties in my last year. Our biennial Confirmation trip to Israel that year filled two busses. The congregation grew to its predetermined limited size with a three-year waiting list. Through it all, WCT remained a vibrant, continuously creative and courageous congregation. For me personally Woodlands was a brilliantly lovely way to be born into the congregational rabbinate. The foundations and friendships formed at Woodlands still endure. More than anything, the word "community" as the center of Woodlands Community Temple's name remains both proper and entirely accurate. I join in celebrating this wonderful anniversary marking WCT's remarkable history. With great affection, Peter J. Rubinstein Rabbi Emeritus

Rabbi Avi Magid I want to recognize your outstanding Rabbi – Billy Dreskin – and thank him for giving me a chance to be part of this second quarter century celebration with wishes of Mazel Tov. But, since that seems to never be enough for Rabbis, let me share a bit of 1989-95 with you. In 1991, during Woodlands’ twenty-fifth anniversary year, my one-year-old daughter Lily was often picked up by a desperately-wanting-to-be-but-not-yet-a-grandparent Temple member and literally “handed off” to the next. In 2016, during Woodlands’ fiftieth anniversary year, Lily was “handed off” to a wonderful man as a bride. The further that one looks back, the faster that life seems to pass. Over the course of time, some memories slip away. Others never do and even grow stronger. This is especially true of the six years I was gifted to spend with you – the most important ones of a two-score Rabbinic career. Woodlands never had a dayeinu. There was always more to do. It seemed to have an unstated moral compulsion that undergirded every decision. In many communities, writing a check would have been enough of a response. Woodlands needed to “walk the walk and talk the talk.” Frankly, I had never seen that before. As a result, Board and committee meetings could go on forever (and often did) because of the desire to try to make the correct decision for serious issues and the need to do the right thing. I remember a lot of those “right things.” The Bronx House program helped Russian immigrants. Honor a Rescuer supported Righteous Gentiles. Groceries for Guns traded food for weapons. Pinch Hitters brought Jewish volunteers to area hospitals on Christmas Day so Christian employees could be home with their families. Reconsecrating our Holocaust Torah scroll led to discovering a man who actually read from that Torah for his Bar Mitzvah before the Nazis arrived. Committed to the Torah? The Torathon let us read the entire text on one day. A respect for Cantors and Jewish music created an annual Cantorial concert to help fund students at the Hebrew Union College. Steve’s HOPE transformed a past sadness to a future optimism. There was also a more than playful side. Following Holy Days sermons, congregants in the front row held up Olympic style score cards (think 9.4 or 8.9). The Sukkot BBQ renewed an almost-lost holiday observance. The Purim Magical Mystery Tour led to seltzer bottle spraying at Rumanian restaurants and XXX-rated stories about Queen Esther. Adult talent contests created ticklish situations for Rabbis. Woodlands also had a knack for finding committed, creative professional leadership and I loved working with them. Educators like Deborah Wasserman and the truly legendary Harriet Levine, Cantors Josee Woolf and Julie Yugend-Green, plus Rabbi Robyn Tsesarsky. Logic tells me that Woodlands wasn’t perfect. I do understand that. And yet, at least to me, it felt like it was. It still does.

Rabbi Paul Silbersher Dear Friends of Woodlands, It was, I think, about 1967 when I applied to be the Cantor at WCT. I met with Rabbi Ragins, having come from being the Cantor/Youth Director at the Free Synagogue of Westchester in Mt. Vernon. The Rabbi there left to go to Brandeis University and things changed. So I also changed. From a 600 family Synagogue with an elegant building, full-time organist and choir, to WCT which, at that time, met in a converted house with no organist and no choir ... and a muddy parking space. In addition, instead of the Union Prayer Book, there were individual creative pamphlet services which were used. We worshiped "in the round." We were a smaller congregation than the Free Synagogue of Westchester with a largely younger membership. Sandy Ragins was a delight to work with. So, too, thought "The Leo Baeck Synagogue" in Los Angeles. After Sandy left, Peter Rubinstein became the Rabbi. Woodlands was beginning to flourish. A new addition of a multi-purpose room functioned as Sanctuary, Meeting Room, Special Events Space, Oneg Shabbat Space, etc. However, the number of congregants was such that we had to put up a Tent for the High Holy Days. With a grass floor, it was a sure challenge to those (including me) who had Hay Fever or allied allergies. While every activity at WCT was important, my greatest joy was to be able to prepare our "newest" generation to become B'nai Mitzvah. So many girls and boys and their respective families were seriously connected during the many months of preparation and celebration. And while they were all memorable to me, one outstanding Bat Mitzvah was Jamie Korngold who became the well-known "Adventure Rabbi" located in Boulder, Colorado. A temple is made up of many sorts of people to make it work. I guess my earliest memory of first persons that I met would have to include the Friedman twins (Herb and Norm) who I knew, as well, from the Hawthorne School ... and the first President, Alan Horowitz. As the years progressed, names like Gralla, Milbauer, Safirstein, Donner and Panzer were among those whose participation and leadership fostered congenial relationships. Peter and Daniela Rubinstein brought new energy and enthusiasm. Planning and celebrating Purim programs (shpiels) and Passover sedarim was lively and correctly humorous and meaningful. I wrote a Passover Parody called "Take Me Out To The Seder" with baseball references, because Pesach and the opening of baseball season came so close to each other. To remember things that happened some 50 years ago means that those things were worth remembering. They were years of spiritual growth and professional pride. With mixed feeling, I said goodbye to Woodlands about 1979 to become the Assistant Rabbi for Education at Temple Sinai in Stamford, Connecticut. And as of October 2015, I retired from serving congregational life (at Temple Sinai, in Prairie Village, Kansas). I am happy to be a part of the heritage of WCT and wish all of you continued success with strength continually restored and zeal renewed. And finally, thanks for sharing some the 50 year journey of WCT with me. Love, Paul

Cantor Burton Borovetz

Woodlands Community Temple 1979-85 Woodlands was my first pulpit after Cantorial Ordination, and I was in the midst of a personal crisis. My partner of three years had recently died of cancer, and I was coping with deep grief. The world was very different then. Even though there were many gay and lesbian students at HUC, the official school policy was that gays and lesbians were not welcome in the school, nor the Reform clergy. It was a "don't ask, don't tell" existence, which I navigated successfully, at least until my partner died. That summer, in an effort to stay sane and functional, I attended a five-day workshop in California with Elizabeth Kubler-Ross for people dealing with issues around death, their own or a loved one's. It was a very spiritual five days, much richer than anything I had ever experienced. What I gained at that workshop sustained me through my first year at Woodlands. So I began my time at Woodlands on a spiritual high, but also still grieving deeply, and anxious about the challenges of my new position. I was immediately surprised by the deep prayerful connection I felt at services. I was moved by the lovely poetry of the original services Woodlands had created. The spiritual â&#x20AC;&#x153;openingâ&#x20AC;? I had felt at the Kubler-Ross workshop, which was more Eastern/Buddhist in character, flowed easily into the Jewish Woodlands prayerfulness for me. The depth of spirit I encountered at Woodlands I attribute in large part to Peter. Both on and off the pulpit I observed the sincerity of his faith and humanity, and how he cultivated a communal sense of respect and acceptance. Peter created a wide open sacred space that was welcoming, non-judgmental, and rooted in the compassionate and loving attributes of God. As I became more comfortable at Woodlands, I found that the congregants mirrored these qualities of their Rabbi, and I grew close to many, many people. Over the next six years I met some of the finest, kindest, most generous people I have ever had the privilege of knowing. My time at Woodlands was one of the best chapters of my life, and I'm pleased and honored to be a part of Woodlands' history. Congratulations to the entire Woodlands family on this milestone. Burt

Dear Friends, I am so excited and honored to celebrate 50 years of growth and spirit with Woodlands Community Temple – not only as Rebbetzin of the last 22 years, but as songleader, Cantor and Educator, stretching all the way back to 1981, when I was a first year Cantorial student at HUCJIR, and was asked by Peter Rubinstein to songlead for the Confirmation retreat. I would also catch a ride up from the city, on occasion, with Aaron Petuchowski, in order to assist Cantor Burt Borowitz on the bima on a Friday evening. Even before I became the student cantor in 1985, I was invited to songlead a WCT Adult Retreat at Kutz Camp. For better or worse, most folks who were there remember me for a particularly ribald song that I shared along the way. I am sure that this clinched my candidacy for the Cantorial position following my ordination, and I still get requests for the song, to this day!!! I am proud to have shared some melodies with WCT that are have thus far stood the test of time – among them, “L’ma’ancha” on the High Holy Days, “Creator of All Things” in the Religious School, and “Bayom Hahu” from our family and Joyful Noise services. It was an honor to work with the Woodlands Singers (and fun convincing Steve Zizmor that yes, he could carry a tune!). I had the pleasure of working on two WCT siddurim, tutoring countless B’nai Mitzvah, and participating in the weddings and baby namings of many who bring their own children back to Woodlands for those same celebrations in recent years. How powerful it was to be present when Woodlands voted to become a shelter for the homeless, and how proud we were to stand on the off-ramp of the George Washington Bridge for “Hands Across America.” It was during those years that the Religious School grew too large for Sunday mornings, and we moved grades K-3 to Saturdays. The Woodlands Community was there when Katie was born. Lois Bacharach ran the school while I was on maternity leave, and countless congregants kept Katie amused during Religious School, services, board meetings and more. How wonderful to see Mara’s family experiencing the same joy and support that Billy and I received 28 years ago! It has was a joy to return to Westchester in 1995, and to watch WCT continue to grow and change and mature. Woodlands played an integral role in raising me as both a Cantor and an Educator. Woodlands helped to raise all three of our children. Woodlands has been there for our family in both the best of times and the worst of times. May you continue to encourage, support, and honor your clergy in the years ahead, as you have in the past. May you continue to learn, grow, discover, inspire and lead: both within the WCT community and in the world at large. May you continue to be known for your innovation, your warmth, your commitment, and your compassion for all. Here’s to the next 50 years! All the best, Cantor Ellen Dreskin Coordinator, Cantorial Certification Program Debbie Friedman School of Sacred Music

Dear Woodlands Community Temple, In 1990, as a first year cantorial student living in Jerusalem, I applied for a student cantorial position at Woodlands Community Temple. I couldn't have asked for a warmer or more supportive congregational environment than Woodlands. These were the days before email or sending mp3 sound files, so I recall recording myself chanting a few melodies using a cassette recorder, and then sending it off, through the regular post, from Jerusalem to the states. When the kind folks at Woodlands decided to take a chance on me, and I received the call that I would begin my tenure as student cantor in the fall of 1991, I cried tears of joy and relief. How could I have known how lovingly and gently the community would help me find my footing during my years at Hebrew Union College? How could I have known that my experiences at Woodlands Community Temple would shape the cantor I wanted to become? It all came down to the people, their generosity and kindness. I'll never forget a Shabbat dinner with that year's board of directors, to welcome me to the community. While sadly I don't remember who said this to me, I recall the words spoken: â&#x20AC;&#x153;You know, Julie; you are a student. But to us, you're our Cantor.â&#x20AC;? What an honor that was. I'll also never forget my office with the oven in it, and how sometimes I'd arrive for Shabbat morning services, and a caterer would be pulling knishes out, right next to me putting on my tallis. I'll never forget the birds that made their way into the tent. Oh man, I loved that tent. Rabbi Avi Magid was an absolutely tremendous mentor. He encouraged me to trust myself, to not beat myself up when something went wrong, and he was so proud with every new experience I encountered in congregational life. Avi was by my side for my first High Holy Days, the first time I officiated at a wedding or funeral, the first time I made a hospital visit, the first time I tutored a Bar Mitzvah student. Harriet was a wonderful mentor as well, helping me navigate my first classroom teaching experiences. Marilyn and Renee in the office were a great support and became wonderful friends with Warren and me. And the entire congregation welcomed us, as well as Eli and Rachel, like mishpacha. Eli, by the way, is graduating from Grinnell College, and will be spending next year working and studying with Avodah Service Corps in Washington, DC, and Rachel is finishing her freshman year at American University in DC. Warren is a professor of composition, creative writing and Shakespeare at Dominican University. We are beyond thrilled that both of our kids will be in the same city next year! For those of you who knew us way back when, you may recall Eli as a toddler running around the tent during the High Holy Days, and Rachel as a little bald baby. It's hard to believe that I've been serving as Cantor at Oak Park Temple outside Chicago for almost 20 years. Over the years I've been honored to lead many trips to Israel and Eastern Europe, was a founding member of our congregation's Chevre Kaddisha, and have worked with many, many transformative Jewish musicians and scholars. I truly believe that the roots for these experiences were planted deeply at Woodlands Community Temple. I am so grateful to you all! Many thanks to Billy for asking me to share a few memories, and I wish you all a joyous celebration! I know that Woodlands will be an anchor for the Jewish community for generations to come - Kol HaKavod and Mazal Tov! With love and gratitude,

Julie

Cantor Julie Yugend-Green

Dina Katz Epstein 702 Heritage Hills Unit A Somers NY 10589 WCT was my first full-time position as Director of Education and I could not have started my career in Jewish education at a better place. Over the eight years I served as your educator, I met the most wonderful adults and students, worked with the best rabbis and cantors and had the good fortune to meet my husband of thirty years, Arthur Epstein. Nothing has ever been able to top this! As I look back on my tenure my thoughts take me to some of the highlights: o o o o o o

Student and Adult retreat weekends at KUTZ Camp Family education days Creating new curriculum with fabulous education committees Participating in the varied Social Action activities that comprise the Woodlands spirit. Learning from the wonderful students of all ages. Praying with the congregation in the tent, even on rainy holidays

Woodlands came to be a home away from home for me and I know for many of you as well. The warmth and relaxed friendly atmosphere that I know continues to exist, was and is so very special. The integrity and purpose which drives WCT to excel in spiritual, educational and social action activities has always been extraordinary. It is you, the members, who strive to make this happen every day. I commend you all for your struggles and triumphs over the years and know I am a better person for having been part of the Woodlands community. May you continue to go from strength to strength. With much love, Dina Katz Epstein

Dear friends, I had the privilege of being your temple educator at Woodlands from 1989 to 1992. I had just finished my studies at HUC and this was my first full-time position. Along with Rabbi Avi Magid and Student Cantor Josee Wolff, it was exciting to work with this wonderful community. I remember High Holy Days in the tent, rain or shine. I remember leading religious school t'filah in the sanctuary, surrounded by the beauty made possible by the windows. I remember the cookbook you published while I was there because I still use it often to make recipes by Steve Zizmor and Terrie Kaplan. I remember highly committed teachers who were the key to success of the religious school. I remember adorable, loving students who made it worthwhile to get up early every Saturday and Sunday morning. And I remember parents who really cared about quality Jewish experiences for their families. But the thing I remember most was the hospitality and the warmth. Community members and leaders were always checking in with me, making sure I felt welcomed, had a place for the holidays, and had the support I needed to do my job well. I left Woodlands so I could move to Colorado and marry Bruce. The beautiful Rosenstein print, "Ani l'Dodi v'Dodi Li," which you gave us as a farewell gift still hangs proudly in my home and is a reminder of your good wishes and love. Mazel Tov, Woodlands, on your 50th anniversary. Wishing you all the best as you continue on to 120 and beyond!

Debbie

Deborah (Wasserman) Morosohk, RJE Temple Beth El 7400 Telegraph Road Bloomfield Hills, Michigan 48301

Harriet M. Levine, RJE Educator Emerita • Woodlands Community Temple The winter and spring I interviewed and negotiated my first contract at Woodlands Community Temple was the year the congregation was celebrating its 25th anniversary. What a time that was! And being the "newbee," I was privy to all sorts of wonderful celebrations. Now, 25 years later, the synagogue is even more exciting, forward-thinking, and inclusive than it was a quarter of a century ago. When I retired in June 2013, there was no question that I would continue to worship at Woodlands. This had become my Jewish home. What makes this synagogue so special? We are not the only synagogue where children enjoy coming to religious school and choose to stay until graduation. We are not the only synagogue to have an active youth group and a large percentage of students attending URJ summer camps. Our adult education classes are vibrant and diverse. Our family programming is exciting and meaningful. Social action is important and people respond to the various causes. Woodlands does it all, and the professional staff and lay leadership are not afraid to experiment with new ideas and drop them if they don't work. It is a synagogue where the clergy is happy to share the bima with congregants, even if they and the congregants don't have the same viewpoint. Education is valued for everyone, not just children. There is no separate religious school wing … children and adults share spaces frequently. This is the only synagogue I know of where kindergarten artwork is displayed in the sanctuary, and where adult study groups prefer to be in a room where the children walk back and forth rather than in a quieter, more private space. One regular Torah study person told me that it makes his Shabbat morning when the K-2nd grade students come through the library. Although during the first several years of the synagogue's existence membership was quite homogenous in that almost every family had school-aged children, by the time I arrived in 1992 that had changed. When I suggested daytime programming, I was told that it wouldn't work … that there were only one or two congregants who were retired and there would be no interest. That situation has changed dramatically. Not only is Hevrah Torah going strong on Shabbat mornings, the Thursday morning Jewish Studies and Talmud classes draw dozens of adult students. Current Events brings in a packed house! Our WCT University Sundays have become popular, the topics are varied, and adults of all ages enjoy the learning that takes place. There is much of which we can be proud, and some that is especially meaningful to me. We have been in the forefront of education for children with special needs. This was happening at WCT even before I arrived, but when we added our now temple president Dayle Fligel to the teaching staff, education for children with special learning issues really took off. For many, many years we were the only Reform synagogue in Westchester to provide an individual program for any child who needed one, including tailoring the Shabbat service where these children became B’nai Mitzvah to their needs, giving them as much special training as necessary, and creating educational programming beyond age 13. Our families pay no more for their children's education than anyone else. Our children with special learning needs receive everything they need to make them successful. In most synagogues of our size, youth group programming is run by a part-time youth director, by an assistant rabbi, or by the rabbinic intern. WCT made the decision to hire a full-time youth director. This was an amazing, forward-looking decision, one which has had only positives in the relationship our teens have with WCT. Members of Woodlands are very proud that our middle name is "Community," but most important is that we are an inclusive one. Long before it was the "popular" thing to do, we welcomed members, regardless of gender or ethnic background. Our committees and Board members are involved because of their desire to serve, not because of the money they give or their professional positions. We often sing "Makom she-lee-bee o-heyv, shahm ra-glai ma-lee-khot o-tee ... the place that my heart holds dear, there my feet will bring me near." May this holy place be dear to all who enter its doors.

OFFICERS Mark Goldman President Claire Franco John Kaplan Steven Weiss Vice Presidents Jacqueline Rawiszer Secretary

Rabbi Billy Dreskin Woodlands Community Temple 50 Worthington Road White Plains, NY 10607-2307

David Margules Treasurer EXECUTIVE BOARD Lauren Bandman David Berger Joshua Breitzer Deborrah Cannizzaro Miriam Eskenasy Erin Frankel Jennifer Frost Marcy Kadin Penny Kessler Todd Kipnis Leigh Korn Barbara Margulis Alan Mason David Rosen Jessica Roskin Tracey Scher Dan Singer Kerith Spencer-Shapiro Rachel Stock Spilker Louise Treitman Seth Warner SENIOR STAFF Rachel B. Roth Chief Operating Officer Kay Greenwald Director of Placement Gail P. Hirschenfang Director of Member Support

Dear Billy, I’m delighted to offer greetings and words of congratulations on the occasion of the 50th Anniversary of Woodlands Community Temple. Over the past fifty years you have built a community dedicated to the highest ideals of progressive Judaism with a strong focus on inclusivity, spiritual growth, and innovation. Your vision of an engaged and committed community is evidenced through your program of meaningful and creative worship and music spearheaded by Cantors Glen Groper, Paul Silbersher, Burton Borovetz, Ellen Dreskin, Josée Wolff, Julie Yugend-Green, and your present Cantor, Jonathan Gordon. We wish you many more years of success, inspiring the minds and souls of our people for generations to come. Warmly,

Jodi M. Schechtman Director of Organizational Partnerships Susan Caro Immediate Past President Scott E. Colbert, D. Min. William Sharlin z’l Raymond Smolover z’l Howard M. Stahl Honorary Vice Presidents

Cantor Mark Goldman President, American Conference of Cantors

Richard Botton Barbara J. Ostfeld Directors of Placement Emeriti

1375 Remington Road, Suite M | Schaumburg, IL 60173- 4844 T 847.781.7800 | F 847.781.7801 | www.accantors.org The American Conference of Cantors is a 501c3 organization. An Affiliate of the Union for Reform Judaism

Rabbi Jonah Dov Pesner Director Isabel P. Dunst, Chair Commission on Social Action of Reform Judaism 202.387.2800

Fax: 202.667.9070

E-mail: rac@rac.org

Arthur and Sara Jo Kobacker Building 2027 Massachusetts Avenue, NW at Kivie Kaplan Way Washington, DC 20036 Visit our website at www.rac.org

To the Woodlands Community Temple family – On behalf of myself and the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism, Mazel Tov on your Jubilee year! Of course, I am pleased to congratulate you on these past 50 years of meaningful worship, deep Torah learning and the creation of a strong community that has been so ably led and nurtured from your founding by Rabbi Sandy Ragins and now by Rabbi Billy Dreskin. But in particular, what we look to with pride and admiration is WCT’s historical steadfast and ongoing steadfast commitment to social justice. The work of tikkun olam is truly infused throughout every aspect of congregational life, an integral part of lifecycle events and what it means to be a WCT member. WCT was founded in the same national atmosphere as the RAC itself, during the height of the Civil Rights Movement. Even in those early years, the congregation tackled the tough and substantive issues being debated around the country. You hosted an interfaith Thanksgiving service and a Freedom Seder, discussed and took action on Soviet Jewry and began a commitment to feeding the hungry that continues to this day. Those early lessons in activism have continued today, as reflected in your over 40-year leadership in Project Ezra and commitment to the Reform Jewish Voice of New York State. With these projects, you have been a leader not just in New York, but a model for synagogues nationwide, demonstrating that it is possible to care deeply and act robustly on communal and global issues. We are especially proud to have partnered with you throughout the last decade as you have inspired the next generation of social justice leaders in part by bringing them to our Audre and Bernard Rapoport L’Taken Teen Social Justice Seminars. Our program staff sees your teens connect their impactful direct service work experiences to the understanding that they can make change at an even broader level through advocacy. WCT’s remarkable teens have been thoughtful, compassionate and effective as they have sought to address many of the systemic problems that we grapple with as Americans. And they have been clear in their meetings with Members of Congress about the inspiration they find in their Jewish faith as they do this work. Those are lessons that are clearly at the core of what it means to be part of the WCT family. On a personal note, I first met Billy and Ellen through their dedication to engaging Jewish youth and their inspiring music. I am proud to now lead an organization they have supported for years, including by their performance at “Run for the RAC,” an event at the 2007 URJ Biennial in San Diego. WCT and its leaders truly embody Rabbi Hillel’s teaching, “If I am not for myself, who will be for me? If I am only for myself, who am I? And if not now, when?” I look forward to another 50 years of your leadership on social justice issues and your partnership with the RAC. May you continue to go from strength to strength. B’Shalom,

Rabbi Jonah Dov Pesner Director, Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism The Religious Action Center pursues social justice and religious liberty by mobilizing the Reform Jewish community and serving as its advocate in Washington, D.C. The Center is led by the Commission on Social Action of the Central Conference of American Rabbis and the Union for Reform Judaism (and its affiliates) and is supported by the congregations of the Union.

June 4, 2016

Dear Friends, The Westchester Jewish Council is delighted to welcome all those gathered here this evening to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Woodlands Community Temple at its Jubilee Gala. Mazal tov. The Council just celebrated our 40th year! We pay tribute to Woodlands Community Temple ---its professional and lay leaders on this milestone anniversary. Our community is fortunate to have you as a synagogue community that provides for the educational and spiritual needs of its membership while at the same time enlisting its congregants to do good works that benefit our Westchester community and the world at large.

The world stands on three things: Torah, the service of G-d, and deeds of kindness. -Pirke Avot As the central coordinating, resource and advisory body to the eighth largest Jewish county in America, the Westchester Jewish Council salutes you as we continue to work to unite Westchester area Jewry with the State of Israel, foster communication among Jewish organizations, and cultivate and strengthen relationships with other ethnic and religious groups, elected officials and the community at large. Our over 160 member organizations, synagogues and schools are anchored by passionate and caring clergy, professionals and volunteer leaders. We wish all those affiliated with Woodlands Community Temple continued success. Enjoy this special evening!

 Paul B. Warhit President



 Elliot Forchheimer Executive Director

MaryJane Shimsky

Committee Assignments: Environment & Health Legislation Litigation Seniors & Constituencies

Legislator, 12th District

Chair, Committee on Infrastructure

June 4th, 2016

Woodlands Community Temple 50 Worthington Road White Plains, New York 10607 Dear Friends, I congratulate Woodlands Community Temple on its 50th Anniversary, as it celebrates with a gala evening. Tonight should be a very memorable occasion. As a reform synagogue in White Plains, Woodlands is known for its commitment to social action as a vital tool to help repair the world. Head Rabbi Billy Dreskin, Assistant Rabbi Mara Young , Cantor Jonathan Gordon and all of your volunteers have given so much of themselves not only to Woodlands but to the greater Jewish and Westchester communities. Tonight we pay tribute to the continued vigor and success of the temple, and to the many people who have made Woodlands their spiritual home. Mazel Tov, and all the best wishes for the future.

Sincerely,

MaryJane Shimsky

Tel: (914) 995-2821 â&#x20AC;˘ Fax: (914) 995-3884 â&#x20AC;˘ E-mail: Shimsky@westchesterlegislators.com

April 27, 2016

Dear Woodlands Community Temple Friends, Mazel Tov on 50! David Grossman has written that his mother used to say that by the age of fifty a person's face reflects their life. I do not know the face of Woodlands at Fifty other than your wonderful leader, Rabbi Billy Dreskin, but I could comment on, what were for me, the two most prominent faces of Woodlands from 1975-1977: Rabbi Peter Rubinstein and Joan Mann. My first encounter with Peter's face was a startling one but it set the tone for my wondrous adventure with your community. I had come to the temple for my job interview, arriving on a sunny Sunday summer afternoon at the most un-temple looking like building I had ever encountered. “Is this a mansion or a temple?” I wondered. The door was locked. The parking lot was empty. Was I in the right place? The right time? I was approaching panic mode when a motorcycle wheeled into the parking lot. The helmet came off and I hesitantly approached the rider. “I think I have an interview here – if this is the right place.” “Hi! I'm Peter Rubinstein! Is the door locked? Let's go in.” Peter has been a guiding, pivotal mentor for me and the dearest friend ever since that moment. For me, he embodies much of what my wonderful Woodlands experience was – a synagogue that was trying to do things differently – a synagogue that was, in a sense, figuring it out in a rabbiniccongregational partnership as you went along. For me anyway, that is a good thing – a very good thing. You were flying the plane as you designed it – what we now call reinventing the synagogue. You were among the very first to try. Joan Mann quickly became a dear friend. We shared alma maters – Joan, what was then called Pembroke – Brown for me. What's more, Joan was a Rhode Island native so we shared an appreciation for Portuguese sweet bread. I became a regular visitor and guest in Joan's home – another lifelong friend. Beyond this my memories are vague and general: Purim Carnivals, WeFTY conclaves, Kutz Camp weekends with the Confirmation Class, creative services that Peter would create as if by magic – sometimes on Friday afternoons. These would then turn out to be so powerful and deeply moving. I thank you for being a nurturing and supportive place for young rabbinical students. I salute you for your leadership as a congregation always ahead of the curve and I wish you well in the next half century. Mazel Tov to All! L'chayim! Shalom, Rabbi Daniel G. Zemel

How blessed I feel to have been invited to be part of Woodlands' 50th anniversary. In the scheme of history, mine was but a short tenure as your Rabbinic Intern â&#x20AC;Ś 1981-1983. To be sure, that was a period of transition for the congregation, and the opportunities and challenges provided to me were among the most formative of my rabbinic training. Following a phone interview (or two?), I was invited by Rabbi Peter Rubinstein to serve as his and as your Rabbinic Intern. Little did I know that, mid-way through my first year, Peter would announce his forthcoming move to San Mateo, CA. Many in the congregation were surprised and heart-broken, but I was nearly devastated. How could he abandon me in the midst of a two-year internship? As it would be six months following Peter's departure before Rabbi Mark Dov Shapiro assumed the rabbinic reins of the congregation, I was given the chance to serve as the Temple's "Interim Rabbi" one year before my Ordination. (Oh, how there were those administrators at HUC-JIR who chafed at my being referred to as "Interim Rabbi" prior to my Ordination!) What Rabbi Sandy Ragins (who had been a very influential teacher and mentor of mine during my years at HUC-JIR in Los Angeles and subsequently revered colleague and friend) and Rabbi Peter Rubinstein had built, hand-in-hand with the wonderful members of the congregation, was something fabulously unique. Woodlands was no ordinary congregation, by any stretch of the imagination. At its core were the people who made up the community who, without exception, opened their hearts, minds and homes as they shared their lives with this young rabbinic student. From Peter, I learned so very much! I can easily point to a methodology for teaching Confirmation classes that I maintained throughout my active rabbinic career. I also was informed by his expectations of Bar/Bat Mitzvah students. Indeed, while I came to Woodlands with a love of teaching, that love grew exponentially as a result of my time at Woodlands. Confirmation and adult retreats were both learning and teaching opportunities that I cherish. Peter also had a unique way of critiquing my sermons, after I delivered them. Throughout my rabbinic career, Peter's model of leading a "team" of professionals was something that I tried to emulate. Getting drunk before Purim services wasn't exactly a manner in which I tried to lead subsequent worship services! To this day I hear the painful echo of our singing (OK, belting out while intentionally not hitting any of the right musical notes!) "All the World Shall Come to Serve Thee" at the beginning of that service. How blessed I was to have been invited into the lives of so many congregants. You were so kind and trusting to enable me to officiate at the entire spectrum of life cycle events. You spoke with me, listened to me, and taught me so much about congregational life and the rabbinate. It need be mentioned that I have long treasured a beautiful set of the Talmud presented to me in June of 1983 by the members of Woodlands' Confirmation classes of 1981 and 1982. The names of those students as written in such beautiful calligraphy continue to serve as a powerful and meaningful reminder of terrific high school students and so much of what I learned â&#x20AC;Ś and hopefully taught. Following my Ordination in 1983, my journey took me to Temple Sinai of Roslyn where I served initially as Assistant Rabbi, subsequently as Associate Rabbi, and soon thereafter as Senior Rabbi. (Quite memorable was the 1984 summer trip to Israel of a combination of Woodlands Community Temple and Temple Sinai of Roslyn Confirmands I led with my brother Jonathan and others!) I remained in Roslyn until 1997 when I was called to the pulpit of Temple Sholom of Chicago. I now hold the title of Rabbi Emeritus, and I have spent these past years since stepping down in peaceful southwest Michigan. How many lifetimes! What profound opportunities! I shall always remain indebted to Woodlands for the chance to take off my training wheels before I really had my own bike. (Oh yes, I had been a passenger on Peter's motorcycle; I suppose that counts for something as well!) I wish all of you well, and hope to be invited to offer a few words at the congregation's 100th anniversary. (Actually, I suppose I should start writing them now?) With tremendous and life-long appreciation for all that I learned from you,

Aaron

Rabbi Fred Greene

June 4, 2016 28 Iyyar 5776

Dear Woodlands Community Temple, In some ways, it was even hard to begin this note – I wanted to stop at simply “Dear Woodlands” (but I know that isn’t what we call it). Then I wanted to stop at “Dear Woodlands Community,” because I most connect with you as just that – my community. But ultimately, I knew that I had to write “Dear Woodlands Community Temple” because, truthfully, that is what we do best – we bring together all the elements of the name – without one piece, none of it would really be what we know it is. When asked recently to reflect on my time with you, I realized that some of my sweetest memories are from working with the students in Academy. Not only were our students (your children) committed to learning about their Jewish lives, they understood that their lives were inherently Jewish because of their connection to the synagogue. By the time they got to us on Monday night, they already had such strong roots it meant that our conversations were that much deeper and more fascinating. I was asked what some of the most important things were that I learned as an intern and how they have affected me in my career. Here is my response: The most important things I learned as an intern came from many of you. Billy taught me to trust my voice and always be sure to leave space for the other people in the room – whether there was one other person in the room or two hundred. Jonathan taught me the importance of hearing everything that was around me. And the many congregants I studied with taught me to always remember that someone had been sitting in that room longer than I had. Just because I might know a bit more about Judaism, did not mean that they didn’t know more about life, or film, or medicine, or parenting, or being a lawyer – and sometimes more about Judaism. And the more we could share, the more we could each learn from one another. Lastly, everyone at Woodlands Community Temple reconfirmed for me that a good story is always the best way to teach, so it seems fitting that I would include one I learned from Billy. There was a rabbi who noticed a congregant wasn’t coming very often anymore. After checking to be sure she was alright, he heard that she was, just didn’t have as much time as she had previously to come to synagogue. He drove to her home on a wintery night. He rang the bell and when she opened the door, without saying a single word, walked into her home when she invited him. He walked over to the fireplace where there was a healthy fire burning. The rabbi picked up a fire poker and moved one piece of coal away from the rest of the burning fire. He then sat quietly on her couch. Together they sat for a bit and watched the fire. As the larger fire burned, the one separated coal burned out on its own. The rabbi stood and went to the door. He looked at the woman just before he left and said to her, “Will I see you next week?” “I’ll be there,” she replied. Woodlands Community Temple taught me the importance of knowing how and when and why to be with each other – both to grow Jewishly and to grow as a community, which really are one and the same. With love,

Leora

Rabbi Leora Kaye Director of Program Union for Reform Judaism

Dear Woodlands community, I was thrilled when Rabbi Billy invited me to reminisce about my experiences as an intern at WCT. After all, that internship was filled with many memorable moments. For example, there was the year that Purim fell on St. Patrick's Day and the staff decided we should dress up like Catholic clergy for our Purim celebration. Rabbi Billy recently sent me a photo of that night, my freckled face peeking out from behind a black veil, unable to suppress a grin. You really haven't lived until you have told the story of Esther in an (atrocious) Irish accent, while covered head to toe in a nun's habit. Wearing a habit wasn't my only first at Woodlands, in part because, unlike most interns, I wasn't in rabbinic school yet. I began simply as a congregant from a mixed-faith secular family having my first big adventure with Judaism. So in a way, my whole time there feels crammed with firsts: the first time I read publicly from Torah in a very belated celebration of becoming Bat Mitzvah; the first time I offered a homily, standing at the bimah, unsure what to do with the microphone, my hands trembling with fear and excitement; the first time I wrote Jewish liturgical music and heard my own tunes sung back to me by the choir. And of course, there was my first time teaching religious school. Because I was still catching up on all the things I hadn't learned as a child, I think I was approximately a week and a half ahead of my sixth grade students in my command of Hebrew, which is probably why I spent so much time helping the kids design certificates of achievement decorated with multicolored starsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;I knew what it took to learn all those prayers! In Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children, author Ransom Riggs remarks that some experiences are so momentous that, later, everything in life is measured by them and becomes either Before or After. WCT was like that for meâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;a landmark moment, the beginning of a journey that kind of snuck up on me, a journey that began with me as a congregant, continued through my internship, and eventually took me beyond Woodlandsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;to Jerusalem, to Hebrew Union College, and to the rabbinate. But what I remember most fondly about that journey is all of you. So many individual faces flash before me when I think of Woodlands, too many to list here, though my heart says your names frequently, with gratitude for the time we spent together and the friendships we forged. And I think that's what really makes Woodlands so special for me. It was an experience of Jewish community like no other I have had either before or since. It was the place that I fell in love with Judaism because I loved what it felt like to be Jewish together with all of you. It remains the place I think of when someone asks, "Where is your home congregation?" And I suspect it will always be one of the places I mean when I say the word "home." I hope the anniversary celebrations will be filled with all the joy Woodlands has brought to so many of us over the years, and that this vibrant little community will continue to be a place that nurtures Jewish adventures and Jewish journeys for many years to come. Fondly, Rabbi Victoria Armour-Hileman Kennesaw State University Kennesaw, GA 30144

OFFICERS President Howie Hirsch Vice President Marsha Gross Secretary Rhonda Jordan Treasurer Cindy Wilson TRUSTEES Immediate Past President Mo Bauer Religious Practices Iris Hirsch Education Gerri Klein House Jeff Berkowitz Membership Jeanne Berkowitz Debbie Kahan Sisterhood Rochelle Ostenfeld Alison Shelofsky Cemetery Jim Arvesen Website Paul Tarlowe At Large Bob Margolis At Large Deb Kalisher At Large Marci Braunstein Non-Voting Member Rabbi Dr. Andy Dubin

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June 4, 2016 28 Iyyar 5776

Dear WCT Community,

My time at Woodlands was not so long ago – less than a year! I continue to be grateful that I got to spend my last summer as a rabbinical student learning from your synagogue’s model of partnership and generosity. Not a day went by that I didn’t see the “Woodlands Way” in action. After my second service of the summer – Shabbat Sh’BBQ – I remember the pride many of you had as you pointed out that only at Woodlands would you find people so willing to schlep their chairs from the service space over to the picnic area because that is the kind of hamish, all in it together kind of attitude that you hold in high esteem, cultivate, and enact. When it came time for me begin interviewing this year for assistant rabbi positions, I held Woodlands as an ideal as I inquired about synagogue dynamics. You taught me to ask: Where does the initiative come from? How does the professional leadership support and empower people to take control of their Jewish lives? I will reveal that before coming to Woodlands last summer, I began to doubt whether or not the congregational rabbinate was the right path for me. After several years of taking on non-pulpit internships, it had been many years since I had served rabbinic roles in a congregation and I lost sight of what drew me to the work in the first place. As I approached this past summer, I knew that I was coming upon my final year of rabbinical school and that job placement was imminent. Yet I was less certain than I ever had been about this long-standing plan of pursuing congregational work after school. It was only eight short weeks that I joined you at Woodlands and almost immediately you assured me that congregational work remained my passion. I was nourished and energized by the work we did together. I loved having the opportunity to teach, lead services, go on pastoral visits with Billy, problem solve, and spend many a car ride talking with Billy about the life of the congregational rabbinate. Throughout the summer I was hosted by many families and got to hear your stories and begin to understand the role that Woodlands plays in your lives. It was the culmination of all of these experiences that reminded me that in congregational life at its best learning moves people to reflect deeply on their lives, prayer brings people together as a community, and Jews take ownership over their Jewish lives. Congratulations on 50 years of creativity, warm heartedness, intentionality, hard work, and fun. Here’s to 50 more! All my best, Andi Fliegel

Gold

Milestones in Jewish History

We are so honored to have grown our branches together with you. Thank you for faithfully serving our community. Congratulations on celebrating your 50th anniversary as we celebrate our 30th! Pell Wealth Partners & The Pell Family Geri Eisenman Pell, CFPÂŽ, MBA, CDFAâ&#x201E;˘ Private Wealth Advisor Chief Executive Officer

800 Westchester Avenue, Suite S-300 Rye Brook, New York 10573 914.253.8800 The Churchill 300 East 40th Street, Suite 28R New York, New York 10016 pellwealthpartners.com

Gold

Happy 50th Anniversary

The thread of Woodlands is Global From Tel Aviv, Charlotte and New York The Fligel’s Say:

Everyone raise a glass up high, and let “L’hayyim” not only mean “to life,” but “to the future of Woodlands.” David, Dayle, Sidney & Erin

Gold

In honor of the greatest temple on its 50th Anniversary. In memory of our son, David, who also served on the temple board and loved the temple dearly. Jane & Bob Steinhardt Debbie S. Lakow Judith Carasso 42

Gold

Gold We will sing the praises of our community for another 50 years! Fifty years of Woodlands Temple We started at a church on Secor Road Fifty years of Woodlands temple Almost as old as Hamurabiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s code Each member young and old Knows that Woodlands is good as gold This temple is truly great And now itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time To really celebrate Fifty years of Woodlands temple We wish you at least another fifty more Shout it loudly Say it out proudly Woodlands temple is our home This we know for sure. Happy 50th Anniversary Woodlands Community Temple! Nancy, Chuck, Alexa, and Kimberly Fishman

Gold

Mazal Tov

to Woodlands ! The First Half Century is the Toughest! Now We Are on Easy Street! Here’s To Our Next Fifty Years!

Elaine & Hal Shames “Almost Present” at Woodlands Birth! *Elaine…Board Member in the Sixties

Silver

Signature Bank is proud to serve WOODLANDS COMMUNITY TEMPLE and salutes them in their Golden Jubilee Year.

Â®

Judith A. Stern Group Director - SVP 1C Quaker Ridge Road New Rochelle, NY 10804 (914) 712-2220 jstern@signatureny.com

www.signatureny.com

Member FDIC

Silver

Congratulations to

Woodlands Community Temple on your 50th Anniversary! We would like to thank you for the opportunity to serve your community. Jim Dowdle & the staff at

Edwards Dowdle Funeral Home

62 Ashford Avenue, Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522 914.693.3330 800.564.3330 edwardsanddowdle.com

Bronze

Congratulations Woodlands

for 50 Wonderful Years from 260 Years of Temple Membership Sheila & Dick Sweet Judy & Bob Rosen Gail & Steve Zizmor Sue & Doug Galin Penny & Bob Apter Alan Kaplan Renee Trell 48

Bronze

Norm & Herb Friedman

Bronze

Congratulations to Woodlands Community Temple on 50 years! and may the next 50 be as wonderful!

Bronze

We are proud to celebrate 50 years of Learning, Love and Friendship at Woodlands Community Temple. As a Founding Family with three generations of members, our hearts have been here at Woodlands Community Temple for all 50 years and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking forward to the next 50.

Meg and Ron Tvert Lori, Blake and Cole Hudson 51

Bronze

Congratulations to the Woodlands Community Temple On your 50th Anniversary We honor your commitment to social action and thank you for building a vibrant and welcoming community.

Bronze

We look back on some happy life cycle events over the past 50 years at WCT, and hope for many more in the next 50. Faye, Evan & Rachel Friedman

The 2000â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

A place that our hearts hold dear, there our feet shall bring us. . . all the way from White Plains!

Woodlands Community Temple

Mazel Tov on your first 50 years! We are so happy to have found you. Love from, The Berglas, Cattan, Galkin, Lebowich, Sagner, Scafidi and Stern families

The 2000’s

Happy birthday Woodlands! Here’s to the next 50!

Rabbi Mara, Mark and family 56

The 2000’s

50 Years of Building the ‘‘Woodlands Way’’ Thanks to everyone for making Woodlands Community Temple’s 50th Anniversary a very special and wonderful Jubilee Extravaganza! A special thank you to all who volunteered and to all who participated in Jubilee events and activities 

Sukkot BBQ & Trivia



Throwback Shabbats



50 Menorahs for 50 Years



Maccabee Madness Trivia



Shabbat Shira



Stacey Beyer Concert



Wine Tasting



Purim Carnival



Coffee Houses



Shabbat Around Town...Scavenger Hunt



Jubilee ‘End of School Year’ Picnic



End of Year ShaBBQ



Jubilee Gala & Journal



Makom Articles



Jubilee Tablecloth



and more

50th Anniversary Committee Faye Friedman Fran Weingast Michele Montague Mitchell Klein Temple President Dayle Fligel VP of Programming Nancy Fishman

The 2000’s

When I was eight we moved from Missouri to New York. Leaving all my friends so far behind was one of the worst experiences of my life, but we joined Woodlands right away and that made all the difference. I started third grade not knowing any other kids but the congregation took responsibility for making me feel welcome. Within weeks of school beginning I loved living in New York and I had wonderful new friends to sit with on Rosh Hashana. -‐Lexi Selig Graduation Statement May 2009 I have made so many wonderful friends here, People really care about each other and ‘community’ isn’t just our middle name, it’s everything. I have so many wonderful memories of temple picnics that went on long after sundown as all the kids played kickball and football. When I go to shiva services at a temple member’s house, dozens of congregants always show up with food and prayers.

-‐Julia Selig Graduation Statement May 2011

My favorite service is Hanukkah when all the families light their own menorah in the sanctuary and the candles burn down during the service. I like how the community gets together to celebrate. I liked studying to become a bar mitzvah at Woodlands because my tutor Margot always found positive and encouraging things to say about what I was reading.

-‐Ted Selig Graduation Statement May 2013

MAZEL TOV WCT ON 50 YEARS OF COMMUNITY! MARK, MARJORY, LEXI, JULIA and TED SELIG

The 2000’s

Worship that inspires and challenges Woodsy A Joyful Noise Derekh Lifecycle Events Academy & Religious School B’Nai Mitzvah Adult Learning So much more… For the opportunities, the sacred connections, and the community, we are grateful. Dale, Elly, Maya, and Zachary Glasser

The 2000â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

The 2000’s

Rabbi Zusya of Hanipol said: “In the world to come they will not ask me, ‘Why were you not Moses?’ They will ask me, ‘Why were you not Zusya?’”

Thank you Woodlands for inspiring us to strive to be our best selves. The Roos Family Lloyd, Roberta, Nicole, Emily & Juliana

The 2000â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

With love and

appreciation to the Woodlands Community. Cantor Jonathan, Margot, Sarah, Matthew and Russell

The 2000’s

For many wonderful years, Woodlands has provided 3 generations of our family with opportunities for: Learning

Wisdom Joy Spiritual sustenance

Love

Tikkun Olam Teaching

Schlepping Meetings

Friendship

Music

Prayer

Celebrating

Mourning Giving

Community

We are forever grateful! the Izes and the Laks families

The 2000â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Happy Anniversary Woodlands! Terri, Steve, Josh and Rebecca Levin and Adrienne and Noah Tanzman

The 2000â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

The 2000’s

Congratulations

on Fifty Years of Building A Very Special and Wonderful Community! L’chaim! A Toast to a Very Long and Happy Future!

Steve and Evi Lieb Sandi Lieb Sam Geiger

The 2000â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Happy 50th Anniversary!! from the Potischman Family

The 1990â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

to all our friends at wct may we be privileged to enjoy another years of learning togther! Ellen Shapiro and Rabbi Julius Rabinowitz

The 1990â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Congratulations on 50 Great Years! Margo & Harry Phillips

Happy 50th Anniversary Woodlands Community Temple

The 1990â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Looking forward to being a part of the next 50 years of Woodlands! The Sagner Family Jen, Steve, Denali and Sarah

Founding Members

June and Don Moskovitz Andy Heidi Alex Eliana Henry Jemalexi Adrien 70

Danny Lauren

Amy Joe Annabella Jennifer

The 1990’s

The Jubilee Year

— Leviticus 25:10 To the next 50 years and WCT continuing to be in the forefront of the struggle to achieve liberty for all.

Judith and Barry Kessler

“If good things lasted forever, would we appreciate how good they are?” Calvin and Hobbes

In the case of Woodlands Community Temple, the answer is Yes! Karen, Stu, Sammi and Josh Berlowitz 71

The 1990â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Mazel Tov to the Woodlands Community Temple Community at

50 years.

The Feder-Gordon Family

50 Years and Counting Congratulations The Wineberg/Kaufman Family 72

The 1990’s

Congratulations WCT on your 50th Anniversary!

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The 1980’s

CONGRATULATIONS AND BEST WISHES ON THIS WONDERFUL MILESTONE Adriane & Joel Belmont

Fifty years is a great milestone. May the next fifty be as successful. Susan & Mort Aron 73

The 1980’s

!bwúf

lz{…m'

Woodlands THE NOVINS FAMILY Rochelle, Jay l"z, Doug, Andrea, Sylvia, Lena, Kevin l"z, Kara, Scotte, Sam, Alex

Woodlands Community Temple Congratulations on 50 years of service to the community From your friends at Atlantic, Tomorrow’s Office

Digital Copiers/Printers/Scanners & Managed IT Services Electronic Document Filing Systems 520 White Plains Rd. Tarrytown, NY 10591 Attn: Neil Figler (914) 674-4500

NFigler@TomorrowsOffice.com www.TomorrowsOffice.com

L'Chaim Woodlands!

We have been truly blessed for 50 years. Nelson and Jackie Leicht

The 1980â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s We May Have Missed the First Fortyâ&#x20AC;Ś But, It Sure Has Been a Fun Ride Sharing the last Thirteen Years! With thanks to everyone who makes Woodlands a great place to call home. Roni Beth Tower & David Griff

Thank you to everyone at Woodlands for making it such a special place for us! To 50 more years! Rabbi Eve Rudin Rabbi Elliott Kleinman Emma Weiner

We are so grateful to the

Founding Families of Woodlands. Through their vision, perseverance, and hard work, Woodlands came to be the place that our hearts really hold dear. On to another fifty years of worship and caring! Judy, Michael, Andy and Rachel Flamm 75

The 1980’s

Woodlands — inspiring us since 1976 Bonnie and Bob George and Family

Clare and Bob Feldman and Family

Congratulations to WCT on your Jubilee and strong community!

The Law Offices of Cohen & Buckmann pc Executive Compensation, Benefits & Pension Law 212-489-9618 ext 1 www.cohenbuckmann.com

The 1980’s

Congratulations Woodlands!

Dr. Irwin Miller & Barbara Gordon

Congratulations on Your 50th Anniversary

WHITE PL INS BUS 14 Fisher Lane, PO Box 823C White Plains, NY 10603-0823

328-1400

Happy Anniversary The Katz and Aibinder Families

Ben’s Is Proud To Support...

Woodlands Community Temple

Together, let’s keep the tradition alive!

Hoping the Next 50 years is as Successful!

It’s time to look back and cherish the past and look forward to another 50 Golden Years.

The 1980â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Congratulations to

Woodlands Community Temple on its 50th anniversary. A truly wonderful celebration! Linda, Jay and Mariah Zwicker

Israel Committee Salutes Woodlands at 50

Mazal Tov

Woodlands!

R S

50 S.Buckhout St, Suite 204 Irvington, NY 10533 914.591.2500

The 1980’s

Woodlands Temple The place our hearts still hold dear. The Weingast Family

The Smith-Yarnold Family is proud and grateful to be part of the Woodlands community. Here's to the next 50 years!

It’s been a privilege to be members of this wonderful community.

We’re looking forward to making more memories together. Scott, Julie, Jordan, Emma and Allie Stein

Here's to 50 years of engaging generations of families and children and here’s to 50 more. 79

The 1970â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Kol HaKavod,

Woodlands Community Temple Rabbi Joan and Andy Farber Rabbis Miriam and Beni, and Shai Adam, and Yael

The 1970â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Always a place for us to belong. Congratulations on 50 years of a warm community! Melissa Swift & Diane Robertson and Jonathan Swift, Elijah Swift, Rose Him, and Jason Persico-Swift

Woodlands Temple is a very special place. Wishing us much success as we begin the next 50 years. Hariet Levine

h With Gratitude The Bacharach Family

Congratulations on your 50th Anniversary and best wishes for the next 50 years! Liz and Mark Rauchwerger

Mazal Tov & Kol Ha Kavod! Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s to the next 50 years! from Martha and Michael Witkowski 81

The 1970’s

Congratulations on 50 years of compassion, leadership, and service to our congregation and community.

Congratulations!

Arlene and Joel Taman

Debbie & Jim Pollowitz

Congratulations to

Here’s four chai for Woodlands on our

Woodlands Community Temple

Jubilee Celebration!

on its 50th Anniversary Dotty and Ed Miller

The Finance Committee Here’s to 50 Magical Years of WCT!

Happy 50th Birthday

Wonderful Woodland Community Temple!

Adam, Andrea, Jeannie & Jordan Einhorn 82

Love, The Emery Family

The 1960â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Finally writing the tell-all guide to WTC's student cantor Bed & Breakfasts! Cantor Josee Wolff We are proud to be part of such a wonderful, caring & passionate community! The Moss Family Deborah, Michael, Rachel & David Wiskind Mazal Tov WCT! Congratulations for Excellence, from Linda Lucks & Family, in showing the true meaning of Community year after year. Congratulations on this momentous occasion of your fiftieth anniversary. Lois Ratafia Diamond

Congratulations to all! May this anniversary mark the beginning of many more years of the wonderful Woodlands Community Temple. We're proud to be part of this. All the best, Janet Weinstein, Nara and Ben Sandberg PEACE! Audrey Rosen, Chris, Jonathan & Family, Robin Mendis & Family. In memory of Irving M. Rosen Congratulations from Woodlands West! Maxine & Steve Happy 50th Anniversary WCT! And many more! Pam, Joel and Sarah Chernoff

Mazal tov! Many wishes for more great years ahead. Marjorie Mattel & Richard Rosen

Happy 50th to WCTâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; Our Jewish community for 28 years! Melanie Roher & Steve Schwartz, Karoline & Jonah

50 years of fun and friendship Aliza Burton & Rich Bromberg

Happy 50th! Thanks for our 36 years. From Arlene & Michael Jacobson & family

Congratulations to the Woodlands community! Peter, Nancy, Michelle & Rachel Malkin

L'chaim! To a joyful, jubilant, (Jewish) jubilee celebration. Rabbis Liz Rolle & Phil Schechter

Congratulations to Woodlands on its 50th Anniversary--our family's spiritual home! Audrey and Larry Kaplan.

We love Woodlands!! Mark and Susan Korsten

Lois and Jerry Green z'hal along with their children, Robin Green Milgrom and Daniel, have enjoyed being here forever. We love Woodlands! Happy 50th! Toby, Barry, Charlie & Owen Linder Mazel Tov. The Matluck Family Wishing peace, health, happiness, and another 50 years for Woodlands. Shelley & David Jacobson May you go forth for another fifty! Jesse Seligson & Nancy Gladston A blessing on your house - Mazel Tov, Mazel Tov! Roberta, Roger & Allison Wetherbee 83