WCT Makom February 2019 by Woodlands Community Temple

the newsletter of woodlands community temple

February 2019 Shevat-Adar 5779

Looking forward to Purim and Passover 5779!

Jewish Rock Star Rick Recht Headlines the 10th Jonah Concert

en years ago, Billy and Ellen Dreskin came up with the perfect way to carry forward the memory of their son Jonah: The Jonah Maccabee Concert. Jonah loved music, Jewish summer camp and the Woodlands community. The concert would support all of this by bringing the country’s best contemporary Jewish musicians to Woodlands and using proceeds from ticket sales to help send temple kids to URJ camps and other programs. Every Jonah concert has been meaningful, memorable and hugely fun. But this year’s concert, the 10th, promises to be especially powerful. It features Rick Recht, a rock superstar in Jewish music, on Saturday, March 9. We expect a sellout, so buy your tickets early. “It’s a bit surreal to think we’re at concert #10,” Rabbi Billy said. “As our family continues the journey of learning to live with

Jonah as a memory, there have been key ingredients that help us survive and even thrive along the way. Near the top of the list has been each year walking into a concert space filled with hundreds of gentle souls holding us aloft as we endeavor to take our sadness and build something wonderful.” Rick Recht embodies the values that the Jonah Concert celebrates. He has revolutionized and elevated the genre of Jewish rock as a tool to strengthen Jewish pride, identity and engagement. He has played at hundreds Continued on page 2

A More Inclusive Community by Daniel Goldberg and Laurie Leibowitz

t’s a natural human instinct to put people into categories as a way of trying to make sense of our world. But while that may be fine in some cases, there are many in which labeling or categorizing is not only inaccurate and unhelpful, but also hurtful. Most of us work hard not to judge based on race or ethnicity, but we may not be as conscious of our assumptions when it comes to gender identity and sexual orientation.

Many people in younger generations are growing up viewing gender and sexuality as more fluid and less binary, and therefore find it easier to accept individuals, couples, and families who don’t fit into a particular mold. For those who are older and less likely to have been exposed to this broader range, this may not come as naturally, but we can work hard to challenge our assumptions and to see others for who they are, not for who we

assume they are or want them to be. Inclusion is simple in principle, but difficult in execution. It requires us to throw away some of the ideas and language ingrained in our minds and replace them. For many of us, the idea that people are either “he or she” and that there are only two genders has been instilled in us from a young age. Even using the terms “ladies and gentlemen” and “girls and Continued on page 2

It’s not too early to put these beloved holidays on the calendar and start getting excited: First up is Purim: This year we’re thrilled to partake in “Esther’s 80’s Prom Purim” on Wed, Mar 20 at 7:30pm. This isn’t your regular old spiel. Instead of sitting and watching, we will actually “attend” the 1986 Shushan High School Prom along with Esther, Mo, Rosh, Haman, and Vashti! We’ll dance to your favorite ‘80s hits and watch the drama unfold in between songs. Esther’s ‘80s Prom is a faithful retelling of the Book of Esther, translated into the world of a classic John Hughes film. Passover: Two great ways to celebrate at WCT. As you start your prep, make sure you attend The New Pesakh Table: Holiday Favorites Made Healthier on Sun, Mar 31, 11:30 am – 1:30 pm. Looking to lighten up your traditional Seder menu? Need new ideas for healthier holiday recipes, including vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free dishes? Join registered dietitian and culinary nutritionist Jenna Lebowich for a hands-on holiday cooking program. We’ll make some traditional favorites with a healthier twist and get you ready for Seder. $10/pp materials fee. Then, if you’re looking for something traditional, join the annual Matzo Brei Brunch on Sun, Apr 21 at 10:30am here at temple. Sign up at wct.org/passoverbrunch.

Our Woodlands Community

Jewish Rock Star Rick Recht, Continued from p. 1

Rabbi Billy Dreskin rabbi@wct.org Rabbi Mara Young rabbimara@wct.org Cantor Jonathan Ben Gordon cantor@wct.org Lily Mandell, Director of Youth Engagement youth@wct.org Corey Friedlander, Sh’liakh K’hilah corey@wct.org Zach Plesent, Rabbinic Intern intern@wct.org

of camps over nearly two decades, and at the URJ Biennial and other major Jewish gatherings. It was through the power of music that Rick discovered his own Jewish identity. A native of St. Louis, he was raised in a “Conservadox” shul. He dreamed of becoming a rock star but never imagined it would be in modern Jewish music because he didn’t know such a world or art existed. “There was no such thing in the synagogue I went to,” he recalled. In the years after college, he played and toured with a secular rock band. He also taught a handful of guitar students. His life pivoted when one of them, Elisa Heiligman, told him she couldn’t find a songleader for the Jewish summer camp she ran. She asked him to take the gig. He resisted at first, “but she made Judaism sound so freaking cool,” he recalled. Once he agreed to do the job, he started writing music to share with the campers. He still remembers his first morning singing tefillah with 250 kids, in 1998. “It was a mind-blowing experience. The explosive relevance of Judaism was something I’d never experienced before.” He quit his band and recorded the songs he’d created for camp. He went on to make 13 top-selling Jewish albums, found and direct the innovative 24/7 Jewish Rock Radio, and run Songleader Boot Camp, an immersive national training program for songleaders. He also went on to marry Elisa. They have two teenage sons. “In both his personal and professional life, Rick is committed to collaboration and community, and the power of song to change the world for the better,” Ellen Dreskin said. “He thrives on communal sound and spirit. I know the Woodlands community will enjoy the evening immensely.” To buy tickets, go to www.wct.org/jonah or call the temple office.

Executive Committee Andy Farber, President president@wct.org Nancy Fishman, VP Education education@wct.org Michael Witkowski, VP Facilities facilities@wct.org Michael Wiskind, VP Finance finance@wct.org Jenna Lebowich, VP Programming/Ritual programming@wct.org Herb Friedman, Financial Secretary financialsecretary@wct.org Steve Sagner, Secretary secretary@wct.org Bonni Abore, Treasurer treasurer@wct.org

Board of Trustees Irv Adler David Bertan Pam Chernoff Judy Feder Yvette Gralla Amy Green

Toby Linder Lisa Linn Matthew Moss Mike Scafidi Ann Zarider Jay Zwicker

Dayle Fligel (ex-officio)

Office Staff Liz Rauchwerger, Office Coordinator liz@wct.org Marjorie Mattel, Office Assistant marjorie@wct.org Michele Montague, Education Administrative Assistant michele@wct.org Bookkeeper bookkeeper@wct.org

Woodlands Community Temple 50 Worthington Road White Plains, NY 10607 914.592.7070 main office 914.592.1790 religious school direct line 914.592.7376 fax wct@wct.org www.wct.org Religious School: school@wct.org

Woodlands Community Temple is affiliated with the Union for Reform Judaism Art Director: Melanie Roher Advertising Director: Dayle Fligel

www.wct.org

A More Inclusive Community, Continued from p. 1

boys” alienates people who do not identify with male or female genders. Replacing “ladies and gentlemen” with “everyone” or “you all/y’all” may not feel groundbreaking, but it demonstrates an important attitude of inclusion. Using people’s preferred pronouns is another way to use language more respectfully. If someone introduces themself and informs you of their pronouns, make sure to pay extra attention to using them correctly. Imagine if someone came up to you and began calling you by the wrong name, not only for a day, but for your entire life. That could make you feel a bit uncomfortable, maybe even offended. This is how people might feel when they are called the wrong pronouns. If we continue to challenge our assumptions, Woodlands will become a place where people feel even more comfortable being themselves. For all of us, feeling understood and having a sense of belonging is critical to our well-being. When we nurture this in others, we all benefit from increased inclusion and diversity, and our community becomes stronger. The LGBTQ+ Task Force will continue to work hard to make Woodlands a leader in LGBTQ+ inclusion in Westchester and the Jewish community. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us at inclusion@wct.org.

Hevra Kaddisha: Comforting the Mourner A Sacred Duty and We Could Use Your Help Perhaps they’ve appeared at your front door? When death takes someone we love, Jewish tradition has us sit shiva to receive comfort from friends and neighbors. Sometimes we request that evening services be held in our home to provide an opportunity to recite Kaddish. That’s when the members of our Hevra Kaddisha arrive. With compas-

sionate guidance, they take our hand for this ritual of remembrance as we make our way through the valley of the shadow. We can always use another member of the team. If you’re comfortable at a Friday night service, we will train you to lead the home shiva service and provide this most meaningful act of communal support. If you think (even if you’re not sure) that you might want to become part of the Hevra Kaddisha, please contact Cantor Jonathan (cantor@ wct.org). He’ll help you decide if this is right for you, and he’ll train you to be able to comfortably lead the service.

from the

Cantor

Yearning for God Cantor Jonathan Ben Gordon

ears ago a story was used in Hebrew schoolbooks about a boy who was hard put to stay organized. He decided to keep a list of his things. “My suit is on the chair, my hat is in the closet, the books are on the desk, shoes are under the chair, and I am in bed.” Next morning, he collected his things, but was confounded. Where is the boy? Where am I? I wonder if we Jews are not like this boy. We retain the list, but search for ourselves in vain on a piece of paper. To find ourselves, we must turn inward. We must distill all our knowledge and experience into a silent understanding, a recurring melody. We must become aware of our continuing internal dialogue with God. Heschel wrote, “Judaism is the least known religion. Its rare splendor has been so frequently adjusted to the trivialities of changing opinions that what is left is commonplace. There are only a few who still perceive the vanishing niggun of its perennial yearning.” The quest for spiritual depth is a basic human impulse, and the modern human family has urgent need of it. We have become so segmented that we distance ourselves from our delicate and inspired potential. The signs of the malady are too obvious to argue. The search for wisdom has been replaced by the inhalation of information. The quest for power has replaced the pursuit of greatness. Piety has become a word of ridicule; prayers have been replaced by speeches. Compassion has become a sign of weakness. The majesty of the inner life has been devalued by the general culture and trivialized by us Jews, as well. Organic Judaism nurtures the soul. It is our hope in a time of deadening materialism and noisy mediocrity. It requires that we integrate all our Jewish knowledge and our practices, and go further into the heart. Habakuk condensed all religious teaching to one sentence– “The righteous shall live by faith.” Faith is the actual personal experience of religious practice. We immerse ourselves in spiritual beauty; we exercise the delicacy of our sensibilities. We welcome the ever presence of God as witness, advisor, judge and teacher. It takes courage to remember that there is an actual purpose to religious ritual, as it takes courage to remember that all life has an Author. As the New Year progresses, let us remember that which is most important. May we each acquire the greatness of spirit that Judaism can convey.

Can You Hear Me Now? WCT Sound Crew in Formation

We’re looking for a few folks who’d like to mix sound for worship services. Previous experience is helpful. If you’ve ever played in a band or mixed sound, this could be just for you. Once a month or so, we need a pair of ears to mix sound in sanctuary for A Joyful Noise, Purim, and other complex musical moments at WCT. Here’s a chance to have lots of fun working with great people and to give a bit of time to our temple. We can train you on our specific board (Behringer X32) but we’re not really in a position to teach anyone from the ground up. Please contact Lance Rosenthal (lance.rosenthal@gmail.com) if you’re interested or have questions.

Israel:

The Long and the Short of It

Putting It to the Vote by Corey Friedlander Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition dissolved on December 24, 2018, calling elections for April 9 of this year. This is a fateful election for Israel. Some traditional political parties are undergoing changes of leadership, and some Israeli politicians are abandoning the political parties they have been leading to form new parties. There seems to be no light at the end of the tunnel for the Palestinian issue, consumer prices are rising, there is concern about Iran’s next moves, Hamas fired rockets on Israel several times last fall, and the parliamentary system of government gives great power to the ultra-Orthodox parties who are intolerant of any Jewish values but their own. These are challenging times for the state, none easily resolvable. As Rabbi Uri Regev of Hiddush writes: “These upcoming elections are critically important to the future of Israel as a Jewish and democratic state that is pluralistic and inclusive. … If the new Conversion Bill is passed—as the Haredi parties demand—progress achieved on ‘Who is a Jew’ will be reversed, and all mainstream Jewish groups, from modern Orthodox to Renewal will not be considered ‘Jewish-enough’ to receive the rights that they have in today’s Israel.” Nothing seems predictable except political unpredictability. Yet with Israel as here at home, we love the country even when we disagree with the policies and actions of its government. We look on with love and hope in our hearts as the Israel public puts its present and its future to the vote in April.

Israel, like America, is a land we love. Its accomplishments inspire us, yet we struggle when it falls short of our dreams for it. This column explores Israel’s ongoing work toward building a nation firmly aligned with the Jewish values we love. Join us in probing the aspirations and endeavors of this complicated but cherished land.

www.wct.org

Rabbi’s Winter Hunger Appeal Throughout February Needy families need your help! Dear friends, Each of us has a vital role we can play in helping those who are trying but just can’t make it in America today. On Yom Kippur, we filled our Food Van and made generous contributions to Feeding Westchester. But it’s simply not enough to get folks through the winter. This winter hunger appeal comes at the time when not only the trees outside are bare, but the supply shelves have thinned as well. Won’t you please join us in making an online donation at wct.org/hungerappeal or write the most generous check you can and return it to us here at the temple? On March 1, we’ll forward all of our donations as one immensely caring gift from the people of Woodlands Community Temple. 200,000 Westchester residents of Westchester are food insecure. 60,000 of those people are children. Feeding Westchester is the backbone of Westchester’s emergency food distribution network, providing over 90% of the food distributed by grass roots organizations throughout the county. Thank you. You continue to be the blessing that graces so many lives.

Rabbi Mara Young P.S. Please don’t forget our Tzedakah Shopping Cart at the temple entrance. All year long, we collect good, nourishing food that we deliver to local organizations. Each time you come to temple, please bring hope to others through your caring donations.

www.wct.org

“Happy Valentines Day”

from Rabbi Mara

very Valentine’s Day, Jewish organizations deliberate how much to acknowledge it. We’re uncomfortable with the non-Jewish religious aspects of the day. Even more than Halloween, Valentine’s Day has a whole religious backstory, glorifying St. Valentine’s martyrdom. Yet, even this is hazy and some scholars attribute the holiday to pagan fertility festivals. The more cynical of us look to Hallmark. The Torah is clear on these issues: Leviticus 18 warns against adopting holidays and traditions from other cultures. The Talmud explains that this refers to idolatrous customs as well as simply foolish ones. According to the rabbis, a Jew should not take part in something that celebrates false gods or is just silly for silly’s sake. You could argue that Valentine’s Day is both. Now, there’s a loophole if you’re looking for one. It would seem that this prohibition refers to secular holidays with religious beginnings. This is why Thanksgiving is far less controversial than Valentine’s Day or Halloween. Yet because of these possible beginnings, we wonder if it is a permissible holiday from a Jewish standpoint. The majority of us answer yes – simply because we see the holiday for what it really is: a non-religious observance that celebrates love through chocolate. In fact, I find the more controversial aspect of the holiday is how it makes people feel left out or unappreciated. There is so much pressure associated with it all! I’m unphased by the criticism, though. I think Valentine’s Day is great. If we take it out of the realm of romantic love, we find a day set aside for celebrating love of all kinds. This is something truly worth doing. “But you should tell people how much you love them everyday,” you might say. Yes, that’s true. But life doesn’t work that way. Either we don’t see or talk to our loved ones (life is busy) or we don’t have the presence of mind to recount every thing about a person that we appreciate. Valentine’s Day exists explicitly for this purpose. It provides motivation and inspiration to speak up and spread the love. This is a very Jewish thing. The purpose of Jewish prayers, holidays and rituals is to make us stop and set aside time: time to express thanks, time to say I’m sorry, time to mend the world and each other. We do all of these things on a daily basis, but having time set aside gives us no choice but to do it. No distractions or excuses. I respond similarly to: “You don’t need to be religious to be a good person.” That’s true. Just like you don’t need Valentine’s Day in order to say “I love you.” But religion provides a framework that demands mindfulness, intentionality, and expression of key values. Setting aside holy time takes us out of the realm of the everyday and helps us to concentrate on the eternal values that make us more fully human. Love is one of the big ones. So Happy Valentine’s Day…you are appreciated, loved, and cherished by your temple family!

Worship Schedule Shabbat Mishpatim

Shabbat Kee Teesa

Exodus 21:1 - 24:18 ... Jeremiah 34:8-22

Exodus 30:11 - 34:35 ... I Kings 18:1-39

Fri, Feb 1 Jammin’ Shabbat at 7:00 pm A half-hour of zany, holy fun! Put on your jammies, bring a bedtime friend, a blanket if you like, and c’mon over for 30 minutes of Shabbat song, stories and blessings to get you ready for bed. Bring a buck for tzedakah. And new this year, Mitzvah Hero Training at 6:45 pm!

Shabbat Evening Service at 8:00 pm Rabbinic Intern Zach Plesent will speak.

Sat, Feb 2

Fri, Feb 22 Shabbat Evening Service at 8:00 pm A quiet evening of Sabbath peace.

Sat, Feb 23 No 10:30 service today. Ask for Kaddish to be recited at Hevra Torah (9:15 am).

Shabbat Vayakhel

No 10:30 service today. Ask for Kaddish to be recited at Hevra Torah (9:15 am).

Exodus 35:1 - 38:20 ... I Kings 7:40 - 7:50 (additional reading for Shabbat Shekalim is Exodus 30:11-16)

Shabbat Terumah

Fri, Mar 1

Exodus 25:1 - 27:19 ... I Kings 5:26 - 6:13

Fri, Feb 8 Mishpakha Shabbat at 7:00 pm For the entire congregation, just earlier – meaningful for adults, engaging for kids! If you like, join us for a quick dinner at 6:00 pm – make your reservation at wct.org/mishpakha. Special welcome to our 3rd grade families!

Sat, Feb 9 No 10:30 service today. Ask for Kaddish to be recited at Hevra Torah (9:15 am).

Shabbat Tetzaveh Exodus 27:20 - 30:10 ... I Samuel 15:2-34

Fri, Feb 15

Shabbat Evening Service at 8:00 pm Our teens will share about their experiences in Washington DC at the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism’s L’taken Seminar.

Sat, Mar 2

Celebrate with us as Fiona Stern, daughter of Mary Elizabeth and David Stern, becomes a Bat Mitzvah.

Babysitting this month will be provided on Feb 22.

Need a Shabbat babysitter on a night when it isn’t scheduled? Let us know by the Wednesday prior and we will provide it! All Shabbat babysitting is done by our own Academy students. There is no charge. For further information contact us at babysitting@wct.org.

Hevra Torah Learning Saturdays, 9:15-10:15 am There’s abundant room around our table. Drop by once or often, we’d love to have you join our lively conversation. In the Meeting Room or Library.

Feb 2: Parashat Mishpatim Facilitated by Rabbi Mara

Feb 9: Parashat Terumah Facilitated by Cantor Jonathan

Feb 16: Parashat Tetzaveh Facilitated by Rabbi Mara

Feb 23: Parashat Kee Teesa Facilitated by Cantor Jonathan

Shabbat Evening Service at 8:00 pm A quiet evening of Sabbath peace.

Sat, Feb 16 No 10:30 service today. Ask for Kaddish to be recited at Hevra Torah (9:15 am).

www.wct.org

February is Jewish Disability Awareness and Inclusion Month! February is an exciting time for the shop! It’s winter buying season and we can’t wait to see what new work our artists are presenting. Our favorite glass and wood artists, Sara and Michael Beames have been busy creating their new line of mezuzot. The laser cut Maple wood reveals the sparkling fused glass beneath. We’re sure the green Tree of Life or the blue doves or the rainbow hearts will be widely received gifts for the new home owner, the Bat Mitzvah or your special someone for Valentine’s Day. We LOVE February – while Valentine’s Day isn’t a “Jewish holiday” it’s certainly a secular one that gives us an opportunity to honor that love of your life with a beautiful piece of Judaic jewelry or a one-of-a-kind mixed media print or a pair of Shabbat candlesticks that will do double duty during that romantic dinner!

The Judaica Shop at Woodlands is open, by request, every day the temple office is staffed. Evening and weekend hours are noted in the weekly temple email blast. Have a question? Special request? Email us at judaicashop@wct.org.

www.wct.org

ewish Disability Awareness & Inclusion Month (JDAIM) is a unified national initiative during the month of February to raise disability awareness and support efforts to foster inclusion in Jewish communities worldwide. Jewish communities have come a long way in regard to actively welcoming and accommodating individuals with disabilities and mental health needs. Whereas folks may have once been stigmatized and turned away, many Jewish congregations and organizations have taken the necessary steps to make sure everyone can come partake in Jewish communal life. Awareness has come from the hiring of inclusion specialists who can personalize programs and identify organizational limitations (both programmatically and physically), advocacy work on local and national levels, and a general cultural shift in how we view folks of various abilities. Woodlands has always aspired to the highest levels of inclusion. Our religious school has employed an inclusion specialist for over 20 years and has

helped educate children with all sorts of special needs. We have also championed inclusion resolutions at the Union for Reform Judaism biennials. But we’re not yet done growing. There is much work to be done. For example, we are currently exploring technological resources that can help home-bound congregants access services and other major programs. Also, on March 15 at 7pm, we’ll hold a Lo-Sensory Shabbat – keeping sights and sounds quieter. Fidgets will be available as well as alternative siddurim that provide visual aides to understanding what is going on. And while Woodlands is generally a shush-free zone, we’ll be extra cognizant and accommodating. One hope of the evening is that we’ll learn which tools may be incorporated into services weekly so that we can continue to build a truly inclusive environment. If this is an area of work that interests you, contact Rabbi Mara (rabbimara@wct.org) and she’ll be happy to get you involved!

Jewish Leap Year

here’s a joke that the Jewish holidays are always early or late, never on time. While the thought may make us chuckle, it’s also true. It is common to say that the Jewish calendar is a lunar calendar. After all, a day begins in the evening and the Jewish months are determined by the phases of the moon. Yet it is more precise to call it a lunisolar calendar – incorporating the phases of the moon and the seasons of the solar year into one calendar. If you’re looking for a true lunar calendar, look to the Muslim calendar. If you’ve noticed, Ramadan moves slowly around the year…occurring in the spring, then summer, then fall, and so on. Yet, being that so many of the Jewish holidays are season-specific, a blended calendar was needed. Therefore the rabbis instituted “leap years.” Approximately once every three years, the Jewish calendar contains not one, but two months called Adar—Adar I and Adar II. 5779 happens to be a leap year. February falls in Adar 1, which will then be followed by Adar II. This is why starting now, many of the holidays will be “late” – a whole month has pushed them back. For example, Passover isn’t until the end of April and the High Holy Days won’t hit until early October. If you’re confused, that’s ok! The holidays will slowly work their way back from being so late to being super early. Keep checking Makom to stay on track!

from the

President

Sh’lakh Manot –

What Makes Temple Run? Andy Farber, President

oodlands has many committees which involve many Woodlands’ members. In our own way, we each spend some, or all, of our free time working for our community. And many of us, when asked, will make time to do more. But beyond our committees of volunteers, it takes money to keep Woodlands running. Money pays the salaries of our clergy, who provide us with spiritual leadership and guidance. Money pays the salaries of our teachers, who train our kids. Money pays the salaries of our office and building staff who keep the wheels of the congregation turning. And money buys the “stuff” we need to make it all happen. The money used to fund Woodlands’ programs comes from each of our households. And the trust and responsibility to spend it properly is taken seriously by everyone in Temple leadership. To plan properly, we first create a spending budget in each of six broad areas – professionals, building, ritual, education, office, and miscellaneous other expenses. We are now in the midst of developing the budget for the next fiscal year, 2019-20 (5780). Each committee presents requests and recommendations, and the finance committee uses them to prepare the budget. When complete, the operating budget is submitted to the board of trustees for review, and then to the congregation for approval at the annual meeting. I invite anyone interested in helping with this process to contact Michael Wiskind, our VP of Finance, at finance@wct.org. He’ll be happy to hear from you. L’shalom,

Why I Volunteer @ Temple In this column, we introduce you to fellow temple members who have stepped forward to help make Woodlands a place we can all love.

Jay Zwicker Board of Trustees My appreciation of volunteering opportunities has been a work in progress. While participating in some Midnight Runs when my daughter Mariah was younger, and the Project Ezra luncheons with my wife Linda as a “family participation” event provided a great deal of satisfaction, balancing career and family responsibilities left little time for serious consideration in pursuing other temple activities. Participating in Derekh a few years ago started a slow conversion to “well maybe I’ll start getting more involved when I retire.” While

retirement is still a few years off, the opportunity with the School Safety Task Force earlier this year, to now chairing the Temple Security Task Force and being on the Board of Trustees was a perfect way to get involved and share my knowledge. Fortunately, we live and worship in a relatively safe community. Being involved with other dedicated members in looking for ways to assess and improve on this for the entire WCT community gives me professional and personal gratification.

Purim Goody Bags

A Great Tradition Continues! Megillat Esther tells us that the Jews of Shushan celebrated their deliverance from Haman by sending gifts (sh’lakh manot) to one another. Please celebrate with your Woodlands community by sending in your Purim Goody Bag order form. You received ordering information by mail in January. If you prefer, visit wct.org/manot and place your order online! Every Woodlands family will receive sh’lakh manot, but it’s up to you to add your family’s name. With your order, we’ll make sure that happens! Your sh’lakh manot will be available for pickup after the Congregational Purim Celebration (Wednesday night, March 20) and during the Purim Carnival (Sunday, March 17). They will also be sent home with religious school students. Please honor this tradition of giving at Purim by participating in Woodlands’ sh’lakh manot program. Not only is sending sh’lakh manot a mitzvah, but you’ll feel great knowing that all proceeds will go directly to support our religious school and the temple general fund. Place your order by Wednesday, February 27.

Blood Drive

Sun, Mar 24, 9:00 am – 3:00 pm Giving blood at Woodlands is so easy and convenient. Come in when you’re picking up or dropping off from religious school, going to a meeting or swing by just because you’re a mensch. You can donate if you’re between 17 and 75 years old and weigh at least 110 lbs (16 yearolds may donate with a note from a parent, and those older than 75 with a note from your doctor ). Please bring an ID with you. Schedule your appointment at wct.org/blooddrive or email Chuck Bauer at blood@wct.org. Walk-ins are welcome but you may need to wait.

www.wct.org

February Happenings & Beyond Learning Jewish Studies Thursdays, 10:00 am - 11:30 am Join us as Harriet Levine teaches about Jews in Medieval Europe.

Woodlands Singers From time to time, our Woodlands Singers delights and enriches our services and other special events. We rehearse on Wednesday evenings, 8:15-9:15 pm. If you can carry a tune and like group singing, this is the place for you. Contact Cantor Jonathan for more information.

Lunch and Learn Third Wednesdays, 11:30 am - 1:00 pm A wonderful lunch and timely discussions of important topics. $10 per session. On Wed, Feb 20, “The History of the Jews in Westchester.” Subsequent dates: Mar 20, Apr 17, May 15 and Jun 19.

S’forim Forum Sat, Feb 9, 4:30-6:00 pm Come read and discuss the best books in Jewish fiction, facilitated by Cantor Jonathan. We will discuss the collected short stories of Grace Paley, centering on her volume, “Enormous Changes at the Last Minute,” a collection of 17 short stories published in 1974 that explore race, class and gender issues. A light snack and Havdalah follow.

Book Club Wed, Feb 13 at 2:00 pm Facilitated by Phyllis Hirth and Phyllis Opochinsky We will discuss the new book, Leadership in Turbulent Times by Doris Kearns Goodwin. In the forward, Ms. Goodwin, writes: “Are leaders born or made? Where does ambition come from? How does adversity affect the growth of leadership? Do the times make the leader or does the leader shape the times? What is the difference between power, title and leadership? Is leadership possible without a purpose larger than personal ambition?”

Current Events Wed, Feb 20, 10:00-11:30 am

The Story of the Jews Wed, Feb 6, 13 and 27, 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm Led by Rabbi Joan Glazer Farber, we will view and discuss Simon Schama’s, The Story of the Jews. This 5-part TV series follows Schama as he travels from Russia and the Ukraine to Egypt, Israel and Spain, exploring the imprint that Jewish culture has made on the world and the drama of suffering, resilience and rebirth that has gone with it. Three sessions remain in February.

www.wct.org

Join us for an always lively discussion on current events. An agenda will be emailed to participants ahead of the meeting. Contact Phyllis Hirth for more information. Subsequent sessions: Mar 20, Apr 17 and May 15.

The New Pesakh Table: Holiday Favorites Made Healthier Sun, Mar 31, 11:30 am – 1:30 pm Looking to lighten up your traditional Seder menu? Need new ideas for healthier holiday recipes, including vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free dishes? Join registered dietitian and culinary nutritionist Jenna Lebowich for a hands-on holiday cooking program. We’ll make some traditional favorites with a healthier twist and get you read for Seder. $10/pp materials fee. Sign up at: wct.org/pesakhtable

SociaL action WCT is going Zero-Waste in 2019. When we use the compostable plates, bamboo forks and spoons and cups, everything should be placed in the bin with the green bag, which has a “Compost” sign above it.

February Mensch of the Month is Third Grade You, too, can be a mensch by bringing in canned meats, fish and beans. Help our local food pantries and the folks they serve.

Knitting and Crocheting Sun, Feb 10, 3:00-5:00 pm Beginners are always welcome.

Thinking ahead to March: Make time to shop for the Project Ezra Passover Food Collection.

Rabbi Billy’s Christmas Eve Midnight Run This year’s run was amazing! Ours was the only Midnight Run group distributing clothing and food to homeless folks on NYC’s streets this Christmas Eve – but there couldn’t have been a more enthusiastic and caring crew had there been dozens of other groups. It was truly a community effort, with friends from Peace Islands Institute and DF South Presbyterian Church joining us. Now, that’s the (Christmas) spirit!

Online Jewish Resources – Y o u t h a n d F a m i LY engagement NFTY-NAR 678 Overnight Fri-Sat, Mar 1-2 Join us at Eisner Camp for the annual 678 Overnight with NFTY Northeast, Eisner, Crane Lake and 6 Points Sci-Tech Academy East! You’ll meet new Jewish friends from across New York and the Northeast, see camp friends, and have a weekend full of fun services, games & activities.

The right places to look You can find anything on the internet. But while Google can find you any topic, it can’t tell you how reliable or biased the source is. It can’t tell you how to relate to the information it provides. Below is a list of Woodlands-approved online resources for all your Jewish queries. And of course, you can always run your questions by your in-person Googles: the various clergy and educators on the temple staff!

ReformJudaism.org The online home-base of the Reform Movement. You can find homepages for each of the Jewish holidays, along with resources for all ages. You can also find Ten Minutes of Torah (reformjudaism.org/learning/ten-minutes-torah) which provides a short daily email of Jewish learning.

MyJewishLearning.org

Biscuit, Bubbles and Blessings Sat, Mar 2, 4:00-6:00pm

A successfully pluralistic and well-presented clearinghouse of Jewish knowledge. You’ll find any topic you can dream of. My Jewish Learning does a tremendous job of presenting multiple perspectives across denominations – helping you to understand the traditional and innovative approaches to Jewish living and learning. See its subset for parents: Kveller.com

For families with young children (ages 7 and below). We’ll start the evening with a book reading by Alyssa Capucilli, the author of the beloved Biscuit series. Then Biscuit himself will make an appearance! After you snap a few photos, we’ll do a short Havdalah service (saying goodbye to Shabbat) and then settle in for a magical bubble show by BubbleManiaJR! It’ll include puppets, stories, and of course, lots of bubbles! This is a perfect event to invite your friends to, especially those who are looking for a temple to call home.

WoodSY Purim Shul-In Sat-Sun, Mar 16-17 WoodSY’s annual Purim Shul-In is back! Open for 8th-12th grades, join us for a night of big fun while we set up for the Purim Carnival, and have a sleep-over at temple! Look out for registration information soon. For more info, contact Lily at: youth@wct.org.

If you or someone you know is a victim of Domestic Abuse, please share this confidential hotline:

Sefaria.org The number one spot for Jewish text online. Torah, Talmud, and halakhic texts (collections of traditional Jewish law) all in one place. Teach text operates as a hyperlink, leading you to commentaries and thematically connected resources. And, in preparation for Passover…

Haggadot.com An easy-to-use platform that helps you to create custom Passover haggadot. Augment or replace the traditional text with countless readings, songs, activities and artwork.

“L’taken” Teen Political Action Seminar Soon Departs A dozen 10th-12th graders will be busing down to Washington DC the weekend of February 8-11, joining hundreds of other teens for a social justice learning-and-action program run by our Reform movement's Religious Action Center. The goal of L’taken (“to repair”) is to teach Jewish teens how to implement Jewish values at the broadest levels possible by working to create legislation that can better millions of lives. Participants learn about the importance of the lobbying process, practice lobbying strategies, and pay visits to our elected representatives to put their knowledge and compassion to work. Lily, Rabbi Mara, Zach Plesent and Bonnie Mitelman will be joining them! We are incredibly fortunate that our kids’ participation in L’taken is subsidized by WCT’s Steve’s H.O.P.E. Fund. Steve’s H.O.P.E. (Helping Open People’s Eyes) was created by Bonnie, Alan and Geoff Mitelman and Joanne Lelewer Harpel when their son and brother, Stephen Lelewer, died suddenly. Steve cared deeply about the way people treat one another. We are honored to share in remembering Steve through the projects that Steve’s H.O.P.E. supports, and to further Steve’s ideals and the work that might have become his own.

Save The Date: URJ Biennial Convention December 11-15, 2019 in Chicago, Illinois Take a few days to immerse in the heartbeat of the Reform Movement. The URJ Biennial is an experience of Reform Jewish life and learning unlike any available anywhere else on earth! Five days of shared learning, highest-quality Jewish entertainment, Shabbat celebration with thousands of Reform Jews from across the country, innovative daily worship experiences, and endless opportunities for inspiration, connection and Jewish spirit. Plus, hundreds of different workshops will be offered, all aimed at assisting us in making Woodlands a better synagogue for us all.

Mark December 11-15, 2019 on your calendar and plan to be part of the fun.

WCT Trip to Israel 2018 40 Woodlands members and their families traveled for 10 days throughout Israel with Rabbi Mara and Lily. We saw many aspects of Israeli politics, culture and history – traveling from bustling Tel Aviv to the beautiful Negev desert to holy Jerusalem. Jealous? Don’t worry…we’re working on another trip 2 years from now!

www.wct.org

Mazal Tov to... Chuck and Robin Bauer on the birth of their granddaughter, Penelope Alec Mas, daughter of Lauren and Bernardo Mas.

the Simkha Page

Donations We appreciate the thoughtfulness of those who support Woodlands Community Temple by remembering and honoring their friends and loved ones through their generous contributions.

Rabbi Billy’s Mitzvah Fund

Upcoming Meetings

Adult Ed Committee Sun, Feb 3 at 9:00 am

Executive Committee Mon, Feb 4 at 8:15 pm

In memory of Sylvia Rosenblum, mother of Judy Flamm, from Michael Flamm. Donation from Evan, Faye and Rachel Friedman.

Rabbi Mara’s Mitzvah Fund In honor of Rabbi Mara for the trip to Israel, from Steve Sagner and Jen Tower. Donation from Evan, Faye and Rachel Friedman. In appreciation of Rabbi Mara for arranging a great trip to Israel, from Dotty Miller. In honor of Rabbi Mara for her extraordinary help, kindness and compassion during our trip to Israel, from Rochelle Novins.

School Board

Cantor’s Discretionary Fund

Mon, Feb 11 at 8:15 pm

Donation from Evan, Faye and Rachel Friedman. In honor of Dick Sweet’s 80th birthday, from Doug and Sue Galin.

Finance Committee Mon, Feb 11 at 8:15 pm

Board of Trustees Mon, Feb 25 at 8:15 pm We would be delighted to welcome you to any temple meeting that interests you. Please be in touch with Andy Farber (president@wct.org) for information on how to join (or just visit) a committee.

The Woodlands Community Mourns the Loss of Sylvia Rosenblum mother of Judy Flamm Dr. Helen VanVunakis Levine mother of Joanne Levine Henry Clayman father of Marcia Kingston Larry Goldberg brother of Lois Bacharach Bob Phillips son of Marge and Harry Phillips HaMakom y’nakhem otam… may God bring comfort to all who are in mourning. Zekher tzadik livrakha ... may their memory be for a blessing.

www.wct.org

Chai Fund In memory of Sylvia Rosenblum, mother of Judy Flamm, from Mark and Michele Montague, Scott and Julie Stein, Dale Glasser and Elly Glasser and Family, Mark and Marjory Selig, David and Dayle Fligel. Donation from David and Renee Doynow. In memory of Marjorie Fortinsky, mother of Jerry Fortinsky, from Ira and Fern Stein. Donation from Richard Berger. In memory of Julius Menn, step-father of Steve Sagner, from David and Dayle Fligel.

In memory of Helen VanVunakis Levine, mother of Joanne Levine, from David and Dayle Fligel. In appreciation of Jeff Frankle, Rochelle Stolzenberg and Karen Berlowitz for their kindness towards a fellow congregant stranded in the snow, from Tracy Schneider.

Social Action Fund Donation from Jay and Lisa Izes.

Jonah Maccabee Fund In appreciation of Rabbi Billy and in honor of the marriage of our son, Jonathan, to Robyn Schlesinger, from Jim and Debbie Pollowitz. Donation from Steve Krebs. In memory of Elaine Goldberg, sister of Nelson Leicht, from Nelson and Jackie Leicht.

Steve’s H.O.P.E. Donation from Evan, Faye and Rachel Friedman.

Lay Professional Development Fund Donation from Evan, Faye and Rachel Friedman.

Education and Youth Activities Fund Donation from Evan, Faye and Rachel Friedman.

Todah Rabbah (thank you) to... Kirsten Kleinman and the pancake makers for their work on the Tu B’Shevat Pancake Breakfast and to the representatives from the Dobbs Ferry Food Pantry for sharing their wisdom and dedication to alleviating hunger. All who participated in the RAC NY house meetings and visioning sessions. Elise Wagner Ballan, Jeanne & Murray Bodin, Joan & Andy Farber, Debra, Robert, Jonathan, Alexandra & Michael Fischgrund, Leora Cohen & Jonathan, Jacob & Daniella Friedman, Jenny Ottinger & Michael, Daniel & Leah Goldberg, Lisa Izes & Jason, Samara & Jordana Laks,

Monica Esser & Eric, Zoe & Phoebe Katz, Sandi Lieb & Paul Storfer, Debra Magid & Zack Grant, Nancy, Richard, Emma & Jack Oren, Lloyd & Roberta Roos, Julie Stein, Linda, Philip & Samantha Weber, Woodlands Fifth Graders, Rabbi Billy, our friends from Peace Islands Institute and DF South Presbyterian Church, and all those who donated clothing to Rabbi Billy’s Christmas Eve Midnight Run. Domestic Abuse Task Force led by Judy Stiefel and Bill Woolis who helped move two families into apartments in December. They couldn’t have done it without the help of those who donated so many household items.

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College Connection Maddie Lesser and Ethan Sipe Maddie Lesser is a recent graduate from Woodlands and is in her first year at Clark University in Worcester, Massachusetts studying psychology. Ethan Sipe is a third year student at The City College of New York, where he is pursuing a double major in Music and Anthropology. Ethan is interested in working in social work and music once he graduates.

Ethan Sipe Jewish life at The City College of New York has offered me some great opportunities, and it has felt limiting and frustrating. One of the positive aspects that I love about Jewish life at my school are the Hillel and Chabad meetings. When I first came to CCNY, all of the people at Hillel were so friendly and welcoming; we played games, did trivia, and analyzed interesting Jewish films such as Menashe. We would often bond over these activities while having pizza or bagels, and it was nice to be a part of a community that reminded me so much of my experiences at Academy at WCT. However, the Jewish life at CCNY has also presented some challenges along the way. For example, towards the end of my Sophomore year in 2017, I tried to start a JStreet Chapter at CCNY prior to the JStreet conference in Washington DC. JStreet, a Pro-Israel, Pro-Palestine, Pro Two-State Solution college activist organization, works to pass legislation against Israeli demolitions on Palestinian soil. My first step was meeting with Shana Iden who was part of the JStreet leadership team, where together we tried to involve people from my both inside and outside of my Hillel. Unfortunately, I was not successful. In fact, someone I tried to get involved told me that the organization didn’t have a real agenda, and that it is just the US’s way of trying to play the role of the hero. It was a good experience, but I ended up being the only CCNY student to go to that conference; nonetheless, I left the conference feeling informed and eager to promote its ideas.

Maddie Lesser I just completed my first semester of college and I’m still adapting to a new environment. Reflecting back, I’ve noticed that Judaism has played, sadly, a smaller role in my college life than I’d like it to. From eighth grade to graduation, I attended temple on Mondays every week. Temple played a huge role in my routine and the development of who I am. By coming to Academy every week and being involved with the Civil Rights Journeys and the WoodSY Board I developed a sense of leadership and found my place within Judaism. At school, it wasn’t until Chanukah that I was able to engage in something Jewish on a regular basis. For many of the nights, I sang the Chanukah prayers through FaceTime with my family. Being away from home for Chanukah was difficult but because of my strong network of Jewish friends from Woodlands and the power of FaceTime, I was able to celebrate. I’m now ready to start thinking about what my Jewish life at college can look like. I’m looking into going on Birthright, ideally next winter, and am making an effort to get more involved with our campus Hillel by hopefully attending Friday night services and possibly joining the e-board. I greatly miss Woodlands and the community it has formed for me. Yet my Woodlands community has taught me that Judaism can take many forms and mean many things to different people, no matter what that version is, Judaism unites people from all walks of life. Despite whatever transitions I undertake, I’ll always have that.