WCT Makom September 2018 by Woodlands Community Temple

the newsletter of woodlands community temple

September 2018 Elul 5778 - Tishrei 5779

Adult B’nai The Woodlands Community Temple Board of Trustees and the WCT Staff extend our sincerest Binah Celebration Sunday, September 30 wishes for a sweet, healthy and fulfilling Rosh Hashanah 5779... to you, your family and friends, at 7:00 pm or two years now, 21 (!) and all humankind. stalwart members of our

Here They Come! by Rabbi Billy Dreskin

here’s a reason so many of us fall in love with Woodlands. This place takes care of us! Our spirits are nurtured here. Our brains are challenged here. Our sense of moral living is modeled and augmented here. And our Board leadership brings us professionals who continually show us the way, journey alongside us, and become part of our extended family. Which is why we’re utterly delighted to introduce and to welcome the two newest members of our staff and temple family: Lily Mandell and Zach Plesent. Lily Mandell has just arrived as our Director of Youth Engagement. She just completed a double major in Media Analytics and Arts

Lily Mandell and Zach Plesent

Administration, with a minor in Theatre. She’s a veteran of our Reform Jewish summer camps and, in college, was active in the Delta Delta Delta sorority. As Woodlands’ Director of Youth Engagement, Lily will be watching over our pre-teens and teens in grades 5 through 12. She asked that we share the following note: Continued on page 2

How To Be A Reform Jew – Part 2

by Rabbi Mara Young

ack in June, Rabbi Billy wrote an article for Makom called “How to be a Reform Jew.” He quoted the most recent Statement of Principles of Reform Judaism and then helped us to understand how this plays out at Woodlands: “The great contribution of Reform Judaism is that it has enabled the Jewish people to introduce innovation while preserving tradition, to embrace diversity while asserting commonality, to affirm beliefs without rejecting those who

doubt, and to bring faith to sacred texts without sacrificing critical scholarship.” Certainly this sentiment holds true today. Our movement is more inclusive than ever – not just of particular groups, but also of individual ideologies. Our critical engagement with God and sacred text has led to innovative worship and learning styles. An eternal idea, new pathways to living it. This is the Reform Jewish bottom line. I can't help but wonder, with the most recent Reform

Jewish principle platform having been written in 1999, what are the new pathways we’ve forged in the last twenty years? When it comes to inclusion, Reform Judaism has exploded Continued on page 11

congregation have been deeply immersed in Jewish learning with our rabbis, cantor, and Hebrew staff Margot Serwer, Harriet Levine, and Rabbi Joan Farber, preparing for this seminal event: becoming B’nai Binah. Now, having attained a level of Jewish understanding (binah), our students are ready to share their knowledge, and their love of Jewish learning, with you, their temple family. Kol hakavod ... a job well done to: Mona Albala, Marion Asnes, Susan Axelrod, Elizabeth Barnhard, Lesli Cattan, Pam Chernoff, Tiffany Chesterson, Jedd Chesterson, Miriam Dierssen, Pamela Goldstein, Joy Gralnick, Gail Hacker, Liz Knobler, Jennie Kramer-Rawson, Leslie Litsky, Andy Loose, Alejandro Luciano, Rebecca Mazin, Jeffrey Richter, Leigh Smith and Jill Strick. Their ceremony of affirmation will occur during our annual Simkhat Torah congregational celebration. With song and prayer, we will honor our Torah as tradition dictates. But with our B'nai Binah, each of whom will read from a Torah scroll unrolled in its entirety, we will soar to dizzying heights of delight and enthusiastic pursuit of our Jewish way of life. Accompanied by our usual highspirited singing and dancing, you and your family are most cordially encouraged to attend.

Some of our B'nai Binah students with other Hebrew students and faculty, and is that Enes Kanter?

Our Woodlands Community 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, Intern intern@wct.org

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 Herb Friedman Yvette Gralla

Amy Green Toby Linder Lisa Linn Matthew Moss Mike Scafidi Ann Zarider

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

Here They Come!, Continued from p. 1

I am over the moon to be joining your congregation as the new Director of Youth Engagement. I know I have big shoes to fill but I cannot wait to jump right in and get to know our temple's youth. I come from Summerville, South Carolina, about thirty miles outside of Charleston, and have been spending the past five summers on staff at URJ Camp Coleman in Cleveland, Georgia. My passions in Jewish programming revolve around the power of tikkun olam (fixing the world) and social action, and the exploration of what it means to be Jewish in today's ever-changing world. I recently graduated from Elon University in North Carolina and am ready to take on the world! I look forward to becoming part of this community and thank you so much for welcoming me! Since 1976, Woodlands has hosted fifteen HUC rabbinical students as interns. Each one has taught us and our children, led services, and participated in social justice activities. Fully embraced by this community, our interns fall in love with Woodlands and wish they could stay forever (only two have managed that feat ... any idea who?). Now intern #16 has arrived: Zach Plesent. Zach’s claim to fame is that he grew up under the spiritual tutelage of my best friend, Rabbi Jeffrey Sirkman at Larchmont Temple. One’s bona fide doesn’t get any better than that! Here’s a brief note from Zach: Hello! I'm so excited to be joining your community as the rabbinic intern! I grew up in Larchmont and am thrilled to be returning to Westchester. After graduating from Indiana University with degrees in Jewish Studies and Political Science, I worked for two years as an educator and songleader at Central Synagogue before starting rabbinical school. When not in school, I enjoy playing guitar, seeing Broadway shows, watching West Wing, and rooting for the Yankees. I'm looking forward to getting to know you all, and for the opportunity to sing, pray and learn together! We really want you to meet Lily and Zach in person, which can certainly happen during the High Holy Days. Now that you know a little something about them, be sure to come up and say hi first chance you get. For now, thank you to all in temple leadership who have helped ensure the well-being and vitality of our synagogue community by bringing Lily and Zach to our community.

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.

Jenna Lebowich I was raised by parents who modeled active community participation and leadership in the congregation they helped found. I grew up in a havurah of about 30 closely-knit families with parttime clergy, a completely volunteer-run religious education program, and no staff or permanent facility. Every family in the havurah—adults and children—participated in the “sacred shlepping” to make each service, holiday observance, and

social event happen. As a kid, I sat in on the monthly board meetings that often took place in my living room. I learned firsthand that strong communities thrive when their members take an active role in creating and sustaining a vision, participate in making things happen, and provide support and care for each other. Michael and I specifically went looking for such an atmosphere for our family and were lucky enough to find WCT. I couldn’t imagine living my Jewish life in any other way!

from the

President

Signing On for a Good, New Year? Andy Farber, President

In our lives, we recognize as many as three New Years. The first is in January,

we might worry about picking a new place for a celebratory dinner to ring in the New Year, maybe resolve to go to the gym, but not much more. The second is reflected on our Jewish calendar, the first of Tishrei. Leading up to Rosh Hashanah we get ready for the holiest days of our year. Like many other Jewish communities, our clergy and temple leadership will be busy preparing new liturgy and music, writing sermons, and ensuring that all of the many logistics are set for the Holy Days. Our third new year, driven by our agrarian roots and revolving around the school calendar, begins in September. We return from summer vacations, and get the kids ready for school. If our kids are done with school, we revel in the memory of getting them ready when they were younger, and not needing to do that again. But there is something else we should be asking ourselves as we come from back from the summer, and return to the rhythm of a new year. Can we do something different, or be more helpful, to ourselves, our family, and our community this year? In particular, I’d like to ask each of you to consider reaching out and helping with your Woodlands community. There are many different ways you can be involved, either as a participant, an active volunteer, or as a leader. Woodlands has many activities scheduled on the calendar this year (for a preview, visit wct.org/calendar). But all of these activities are enriched when you step up to help. We need you, far beyond the immediate Temple leadership, to remain a successful and engaged community. And there are so many ways you can do that. Like the builders of the Mishkan (the desert Sanctuary), we benefit from all of the varied skills that members of our community possess. Teachers and administrators, contractors and planners, writers and accountants, all of your skills are needed to plan and implement our programs. Not ready to step up? Why not just step in? We always benefit from your participation. You can (almost always) find the time. We can all find the time to do something worthwhile. And volunteering is one of the most worthwhile things we can do. More than anything else, we get so much more from volunteering than what we put into it. We may go home tired, but we’ll also go home content, looking back at a job well done. Volunteering also needs to be fun. Most of us go to work because it’s the means by which we earn the money to put a roof over our heads and put food on our table. By that standard, volunteering is optional, so let’s make sure we enjoy it. It is a privilege and honor to begin my term as your president. I am humbled by your choice. As we look forward to 5779, I hope you will partner with me and with your Temple leadership. Let’s have a rewarding, safe, healthy, and sweet New Year.

L’shalom,

WCT Seat Cushions are Back! Ever wonder why the chairs in the tent are so uncomfortable? Worry no more! You can now purchase attractive, comfortable and stylish seat cushions tastefully decorated with the Woodlands logo. At $10 per cushion (or a bargain rate of four cushions for $36), your entire family can enjoy the High Holy Days in supreme comfort. To order go to wct.org/tushcush. Questions, contact Nancy Fishman (programming@wct.org). Your tush and your temple will thank you!

Just Israel Israel Flying Aid Comes Out of the Closet by Corey Friedlander

srael Flying Aid, a secretive nonprofit, has been quietly supplying humanitarian aid to Syrian victims of the civil war there since 2011. In July, through the Israel Defense Forces, it sent 300 tents, 13 tons of food, 15 tons of baby formula, 3 pallets of medical supplies, and 30 tons of clothes and shoes to tens of thousands of Syrian civilians fleeing Bashar Assad’s offensive.

This time, though, rather than waste precious time removing identifying Israeli labels, its founder, Gal Lusky, wrote a letter in English pinned to the tents saying: “Although you are considered to be our sworn enemies and although by operating in the field our volunteers were risking their lives, as the descendants of Jews that survived the Holocaust, we, the volunteers of Israeli Flying Aid, proud Jewish citizens of the State of Israel, sanctify life and will not stand idly by as women and children are continuously slaughtered.”

While Israel struggles with the challenges of establishing peace with her neighbors, good news does emerge. This column provides a brief glimpse of something taking root there that firmly aligns Israel’s values with Judaism’s. We hope you share our pride and admiration for these Arab/Israeli achievements.

www.wct.org

from the

R a bb i

Continuing On for a Good, New Year Rabbi Billy Dreskin

Ten years ago, we began this service as an experiment. We were looking for ways to create Shabbat services that are informed by the American gospel tradition yet are still authentically Jewish. “A Joyful Noise!” is the result. Captivating and enchanting for adults and young people alike, AJN is a 12-piece musical ensemble that includes piano, bass, drums, guitar, 2 horns and 4-6 singers. We create a contemporary, dynamic musical worship experience that features melodies by many of the American Jewish community’s best-known and best-loved composers. Visual worship provides engaging graphics behind the prayers, sometimes punctuating the sermons, and frees your hands to clap, or hold someone else’s. And of course, thoughtful and stimulating writings from the rabbis and others who find their way onto the “AJN” bimah.

Here are the dates for the coming year (5779/2018-19): Fri, Sep 28 Fri, Oct 26 Fri, Dec 21 “A Joyful Noise!” always draws a crowd. We’d love to see you there!

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.

www.wct.org

May the New Year bring an inscription of blessing to us all, and may it see us continuing ever on for many good, new years. See you in the Tent!

Andrew Bordwin

We Want You to Make “A Joyful Noise!”

s I read Andy Farber’s first presidential article in this issue of Makom, I was struck by the contrast between his first year at the helm and my twenty-fourth. It has been, and continues to be, such an honor to serve as a rabbi for Woodlands Community Temple. I’m blessed to be part of a community that does so much that is right and good. Mind you, I used to avoid the hype. When people would tell me that Woodlands is different, that it’s unlike any other congregation out there, I resisted. To be sure, there are many, many wonderful synagogues across North America, but I think I’m ready to accept that Woodlands does indeed possess something very special. I’m not taking credit for that; in fact, when I arrived here in 1995, I made a promise to myself, “First, do no harm.” I knew (because I’d been your rabbinic intern during my HUC years) that this place was a treasure and I wanted to enjoy it every bit as much as you have. Across the decades, many have dubbed our secret formula as something called “the Woodlands way.” There is no consensus as to what that is and, variously, I’ve heard it used to refer to our informality, our friendliness and inclusiveness, our style of worship, our commitment to social justice, our creative, innovative and hands-on spirit, to name just a few (for more opinions, visit wct.org/hhdsermons, 5776/2015, “The Woodlands Way”). Over the years, what has become apparent to me is a clear and demonstrable love that many have for this temple. And it’s not for nothing. Something has been going on here since the 1960s that, if not unique, is rare and quite precious. As the New Year 5779 begins, I’m cognizant of this and hope that you are as well. We are part of something very special, and I hope you’ll want a lot of Woodlands Community Temple in your own life in the year ahead. In recent times, our world has become a difficult one. We need various assurances, perhaps moreso than ever since World War II. We need to know that our loved ones are safe – that they are part of a community that accepts and values them. We also need to know that our community is not an insular one – that we care about others, and that we stand side-by-side to do real work improving life not just for ourselves, but for those who can’t do so by themselves.

from the

R a bb i

Why It Matters Rabbi Mara Young

ack in July, I paid a visit to URJ Kutz Camp. Kutz is a special place. The camp is only open to teens, centering on individual growth and leadership development. Kutz also houses Gibush, a program for teens with autism that fully integrates them into the Kutz experience. Its success is manifested in the fact that some of the program’s graduates have returned to work at camp. Over dinner, I struck up a conversation with some colleagues from my hometown, Westfield, NJ. Later on, during some downtime, one of these folks walked up to me with a young man in his early twenties. “Michael, this is Rabbi Mara. She’s also from Westfield.” Michael and I started to chat. He had once been a Gibush participant and is now on staff at Kutz. He asked me my last name. I pointed to my nametag and told him. Then I asked, “What’s yours?” But before I could finish my question, I looked at his nametag, read his last name, and gasped ... loudly. Michael looked at me, the folks around us turned to see what was going on. In shock, I uttered, “Michael, the last time I saw you, you were seven years old. I was in high school, and I was your very first aide in your very first year of religious school.” I was on the verge of tears. This was more than just bumping into him on the streets of my hometown. We were reunited in a very Jewish space in a very holy moment. I was privileged to walk with him for just a few steps at the beginning of his Jewish journey – a journey that he would take leaps on long after me. Michael too had done something significant, walking with me at the beginning of my rabbinic journey (something I’ve identified in hindsight). My experience with him nearly sixteen years ago strengthened my dedication to the Jewish people and synagogue life. He ignited my commitment to special needs inclusion, a value that made me feel at home at Woodlands. To be at Kutz with him, a poised young man, and me, now a seasoned rabbi, was to know, on the deepest level, that what we do with our lives matters. Whether big or small, each moment is a choice in holiness. Being aware of this drives us to seek out people and experiences that help us build a better world. It cleanses us of pettiness’ toxicity; it unbinds us from selfishness. I’m not a hero in this story. I’m just a woman who got a glimpse of her life’s context and was inspired to make each interaction count even more. I can’t think of a better way to head into this new temple year.

˚r≤d≤

A Shabbat to Welcome Derekh Fri, Sep 21 at 8:00 pm

Derekh, a Hebrew word meaning “path,” is WCT’s leadership development program. From September through April, a number of our congregants will join Dale Glasser, a member of our synagogue who is an expert in organizational management, as well as Rabbi Billy, Rabbi Mara and temple president Andy Farber, on a journey into the workings of temple leadership. The group will meet monthly to learn the nuts and bolts of how synagogues work and what is needed from its volunteer leadership. The program includes visits to temple committee meetings and presentations by members of our current leadership. It is our hope that Derekh will foster the development of future temple leadership for years, even decades, to come. Please plan to be with us as we welcome this year’s Derekh participants into our program.

Derekh

Mishpakha Shabbat 5779! Here at Woodlands, we purposefully use “mishpakha” to describe one of our many signature worship experiences. Mishpakha Shabbat is for our whole community – from older members through grade-school-aged kids. It’s a regular Friday night service, but an hour earlier to accommodate older folks who don’t like to drive late at night and our younger members’ bedtimes. The music is uplifting and catchy, but not pediatric. Mishpakha Shabbat is for our entire temple “family,” modified just a bit to welcome those who need a little change of time and pace. There’s an optional 6:00 pm dinner (register at wct.org/mishpakha).

Here are the dates for 5779 (2018-19): Fri, Oct 19 at 7:00 pm Fri, Nov 9 at 7:00 pm Fri, Dec 7 at 7:00 pm Fri, Jan 11 at 7:00 pm Fri, Mar 15 at 7:00 pm Fri, Mar 29 at 7:00 pm Fri, Apr 26 at 7:00 pm Fri, May 17 at 7:00 pm Fri, June 24 at 6:00 pm (Mishpakha ShaBBQ)

“Simply Shabbat” is Simply Delightful! Woodlands is a pretty exciting place to build a Jewish life for ourselves and our loved ones. Sometimes, though, it’s nice to take it easy and just enjoy one another’s company. “Simply Shabbat” is a Friday evening service that does just that. The clergy lead a simple Shabbat service, with familiar Jewish melodies, perhaps a Torah reading or a discussion, and the beauty of spending Shabbat with our beloved Woodlands community. Our first “Simply Shabbat” this year will take place at 8:00 pm on Fri, Oct 5. Come join us!

www.wct.org

Jammin’ Shabbat 5779! Put on your jammies, bring a bedtime friend, and c’mon over to Woodlands for the wildest bedtime song, stories and blessings ever! Rabbi Billy, Rabbi Mara and Cantor Jonathan will be jammin’ with songs and stories. So if you’re looking for an exciting way to celebrate Shabbat as a family (and to get ready for bed, you won’t want to miss a single JAMMIN’ SHABBAT this year! One Friday night a month, 7:00-7:30 pm. And new this year, Mitzvah Hero Training at 6:45 pm!

Here are the dates for 5779 (2018-19): Fri, Oct 5, Fri, Nov 2, Fri, Dec 14, Fri, Jan 4, Fri, Feb 1, Fri, Mar 8, Fri, Apr 12, Fri, May 3, Jun 7 Grandparents: If you have little ones living in (or visiting!) the Westchester area and you’d like to kvell at their loving being in temple, invite them to join you for Jammin’ Shabbat. They’ll love it, which means you will too!

Jews, Christians & Muslims Share Ramadan Meal @ WCT

from the

Youth

How to Live Forever Cantor Jonathan Gordon

eople seem to be obsessed with fame. We take pictures of the meals we are about to eat and post them on social media. Apparently our smallest satisfactions are noteworthy if everyone sees them. We take photos of famous people and places. Far from expressing awe, we make selfies of ourselves with them, incorporating them into our personal narrative. Many people live as if they were products on a supermarket shelf: I am successful if I am noticed; the great challenge of life is how to avoid anonymity. Perhaps it is fear of death that motivates this behavior. Yet somewhere there is a professor’s epitaph that reads, “Published, but perished all the same.” Is it a sad state of affairs to be similar to another person? Are we diminished if we are regular? It is not the opinions of others that give us self-worth. Inner strength comes from another source. Jews get our meaning from the beauty of the things we serve. There is a rabbinic saying that the righteous live forever, while the evil truly die. A righteous person becomes part of God’s plan. Bad people put themselves out of the future that is meant to be. They become part of the shadow, a tzaddik lives on in the light. There is a quick way to know if a biblical character is a hero or not – see if our people have named their children after them. Righteous names live on and on. Immortality? We say Elijah never died, but was taken up to heaven on a fiery chariot. He was perhaps the most loyal servant in our history. Elijah returns to us to witness our continued loyalty in our regular, private observances – the b’ris, the seder, Havdalah at home. He and all Jews become immortal through our common beliefs and practices. Jews have tonics against mortality. Study, we say. Learn throughout life. Keep our sacred books alive by turning them over in our hearts all of our days. The soul is immortal, we are taught; one must live life as if it were our only chance to be. We are to live with passion, with care, and with purpose. Instead of striving to be noticed, let us strive to serve. We shall use our gifts to contribute to that which is most worthy. Great ideas are promises from God. They live forever, and we become part of them through a dedicated life.

Wishing you a meaningful High Holy Days experience!

n May, Woodlands was once again privileged to host our Muslim neighbors for an Iftar dinner – the meal that breaks each day’s fast during Ramadan. Following the traditional Muslim call to prayer, we shared delicious Turkish food. In addition, we learned about Islam while our clergy taught about and led Havdalah. As we sat together at tables in our sanctuary, we were able to engage in dozens of lively conversations with our new friends, learning more about each other’s religions, cultures and lives here in the U.S. The Iftar dinner was part of Woodlands’ continuing outreach to other faith communities in our area. If you’d like to help make events like this one happen, join WCT’s Bridges of Faith and Friendship task force. Email us at bridges@wct.org.

www.wct.org

Save the Date! for the

10th Annual Jonah Maccabee Concert this year with Rick Recht

Saturday, March 9, 2018

“So Is Life” Now AvailableforDownload Boxt, Dreskin, Nelson and Nichols, now calling themselves So Is Life, appeared at this year’s Jonah Maccabee Concert, playing to a sold-out, adoring crowd. Featuring Josh Nelson, Dan Nichols, Cantors Ellen Dreskin and Rosalie Boxt, So Is Life presents a luxuriant tapestry of exquisitely lovely and loving songs. And now, you can download them for yourself (or someone you love) by visiting jonahmac.org/music.

Worship Schedule This month, we have noted the days of the Hebrew month of Elul. Jewish tradition challenges us during Elul to prepare ourselves for the High Holy Days. When Elul ends, we hope you will enter the Tent ready to engage in self-transformation.

Shabbat Vayelekh

Sat, Sep 29

Deut 31:1-30 ... Isa 55:6 - 56:8

Shabbat Morning Service at 10:30 am

Fri, Sep 14

Celebrate with us as Emma Feldbaum, daughter of Esther and David Feldbaum, becomes a Bat Mitzvah.

Shabbat Shuva at 8:00 pm

Start your Labor Day weekend right, with Shabbat celebration! The 21st of Elul, nine days until Rosh Hashanah.

The days between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur offer time to continue reflecting on the purpose and direction of our lives. Pastor Marie Meeks, who received a call to Dobbs Ferry Lutheran Church this past year, will be our very special guest speaker, reflecting on the theme of repentance and turning from a perspective unique to us during the holy days. Cantor Jonathan will chant the Shabbat Shuvah haftarah.

Babysitting at 8:00 pm Shabbat services is provided by teens from our religious school. This month, babysitting will be available during the High Holy Days. There is a fee and advance registration is required (no walk-ins will be accepted). Advance reservations may be arranged at wct.org/hhd for the following services:

Sat, Sep 1

Sat, Sep 15

Rosh Hashanah Evening Sun, Sep 9 at 8:00 pm

Shabbat Kee Tavo Deut 26:1 - 29:8 ... Isa 60:1-22

Fri, Aug 31 Outdoor Shabbat at 8:00 pm

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

Shabbat Nitzavim Deut 29:9 - 30:20 ... Isa 61:10 - 63:9

Fri, Sep 7

Shabbat Morning Service at 10:30 am Celebrate with us as Marly Leibman, daughter of Lara and Andrew Leibman, becomes a Bat Mitzvah.

Shabbat Ha’azinu Deut 32:1-52 ... II Sam 22:1-51

Worship with the Wires Exposed at 8:00 pm

Fri, Sep 21

As the month of Elul leads us toward Rosh Hashanah, come share in our communal preparation for the Days of Awe. Join us as we take the opportunity to explore the meaning of our Holy Day prayers, and how they can help us review and improve our lives. Corey Friedlander will speak. The 28th of Elul, two days until Rosh Hashanah.

Welcoming Derekh at 8:00 pm

Sat, Sep 8 No 10:30 service today. Ask for Kaddish to be recited at Hevra Torah (9:15 am).

Celebrating Shabbat as a community, we welcome the newest participants in Derekh, our temple leadership development program.

Sat, Sep 22 Shabbat Morning Service at 10:30 am

Financial Secretary As a new year begins, please remember that any financial arrangement previously made with the Financial Secretary is for one year only. After receiving your temple bill, if a discussion about a new arrangement would be helpful, please contact Herb Friedman at financialsecretary@wct.org.

Rosh Hashanah Day II Tue, Sep 11 at 10:00 am Kol Nidre Evening Tue, Sep 18 at 8:00 pm Yom Kippur Morning Wed, Sep 19 at 10:00 am Yom Kippur Afternoon Wed, Sep 19 at 3:30 pm

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.

Celebrate with us as Andrew Shawn, son of Sharon and Erik Shawn, becomes a Bar Mitzvah.

Sep 1: Parashat Kee Tavo

Shabbat Hol HaMoed Sukkot

Sep 8: Parashat Nitzavim

Ex 33:12 - 34:26 ... Ezek 38:18 - 39:7

A Reminder from Herb Friedman,

Rosh Hashanah Day I Mon, Sep 10 at 10:00 am

Fri, Sep 28 A Joyful Noise! at 8:00 pm A service for everyone, from oldest to youngest. With a dozen musicians and your voices, we’ll fill the Sanctuary with a joyful noise! Visual Worship tonight ... all prayers and readings will be projected onto screens. Welcome this evening to our 6th grade families!

Facilitated by Lisa Sacks

Facilitated by Barry Kessler

Sep 15: Parashat Vayelekh Facilitated by Rabbi Joan Farber

Sep 22: Parashat Ha’azinu Facilitated by Corey Friedlander

Sep 29: Khol HaMoed Sukkot Self-facilitated today

www.wct.org

5779

High Holy Days at Woodlands

ELUL: A Month to Get Ready

During the month of Elul (which began on Sat eve, Aug 11), Jewish tradition urges us to begin the introspective process that will occupy our attention during High Holy Days. As we wind down from the sunny, lazy days of summer, Elul reminds us it’s time to begin examining ourselves – our actions, our outlooks – and begin considering why we’ve made the choices we’ve made in the past year, and how we might modify those choices in the months ahead. Rosh Hashanah begins on Sun eve, Sep 9. These days are tremendous gifts to us from Jewish tradition: that rare opportunity to spend dedicated time thinking about the person we’re supposed to be. Every moment in the tent leverages that opportunity. In the preceding days of Elul, we encourage you to look for other ways to start this sacred process. See you in the tent!

Selihot with Ruth Bader Ginsburg Sat, Sep 1, 7:00-10:00 pm We’re positively thrilled to announce that we have obtained a copy of the film, “RBG,” and will be showing it as part of this year’s Selihot observance. “RBG” tells the amazing and important story of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. “RBG” received a score of 94 from Rotten Tomatoes, highlighting its nearly universal acclaim. Viewing of the film will begin at 7:00 pm in our Sanctuary, followed by dessert at 8:30 pm and then, joined by friends and neighbors from Greenburgh Hebrew Center, we’ll share in the 1-hour creative and inspiring Selihot service of personal introspection that truly begins the High Holy Days season. The service will be led by the rabbis and cantors from both WCT and GHC.

www.wct.org

Honor a Loved One High Holy Days Bookplates Now Available It is a time-honored Jewish tradition to honor people we love by making tzedakah contributions on their behalf. You and your family may do this by purchasing bookplates to dedicate individual copies of our High Holy Days makhzor. Your donation will help us pay for these new makhzorim. • Bookplates cost $36 for each makhzor dedicated. • One plate will be lovingly inscribed with both your and your loved one’s name. • Each plate will be placed inside one synagogue copy of our High Holy Days prayerbook. • Order online at wct.org/bookplate.

A Word to Our Parents about the High Holy Days Please know that we encourage all our children to attend adult services for High Holy Days. While children’s programs and services tailored for specific age groups will be available throughout the High Holy Days, you and your entire family are always welcome in the tent. We look forward to seeing them among the faces for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. We ask that you be considerate of other worshipers during the services and be responsible for your child’s behavior, whether inside or outside of the tent.

Parking for the High Holy Days “Be a Good PARKING Neighbor.” We know parking is at a premium when large numbers come to temple. So please carpool and reduce the number of cars coming into the neighborhood. If you do drive, park at St. Joe’s (in the designated spots only). If the St. Joe’s lot is full, you may park on Don La, Biltom Rd and Drake Rd, but not Whitehouse Rd. Remember to park only on the side designated by Police Department signs and strictly observe the NO PARKING signs. Greenburgh Police patrol these streets, and will ticket (maybe tow) cars not parked properly. There will be handicapped parking spaces close to the Tent for legitimate state or county handicapped parking license permits. In addition, the entire temple parking lot will be reserved for families that require parking in close proximity to the temple such as seniors unable to navigate the hill from St. Joe’s. These spaces are extremely limited, so please make sure you truly need one before parking there. Thank you for complying with these instructions. The High Holy Days are a wonderful time for us; let’s do what we can to be wonderful neighbors, as well.

Ushering for High Holy Days Is Open to All! Ever wondered how to volunteer to help out in the Tent during Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur? It’s easy, and we could really use your help (teens included). Lend a hand at either congregational services or family services – your pick! We also need 15-20 minutes of help after Neilah (the closing service on Yom Kippur) to put away books and papers for next year. Sign up online at wct.org/ushering. Questions, please contact Mike Lebowich (ushering@wct.org).

High Holy Days Service Schedule Selihot (Sat, Sep 1) Movie ... 7:00 pm Service ... 9:00 pm

Andrew Bordwin

Rosh Hashanah Evening (Sun, Sep 9) Evening Service ... 8:00 pm Teen Experience (Grades 8-12) ... 8:00 pm

Rosh Hashanah Day 1 (Mon, Sep 10) Morning Service ... 10:00 am Family Service ... 2:30-3:45 pm Young Family Service ... 3:00-3:45 pm Tashlikh ... 4:00-4:45 pm

Sukkot Evening (Sun, Sep 23) Taste of Woodlands (bring prospective members!) ... 4:30 pm Sukkot Family Experience ... 4:30 pm

Shabbat Shuvah (Fri, Sep 14) Evening Service ... 8:00 pm (Rev. Marie Meeks will speak)

Kol Nidre (Tue, Sep 18) Evening Service ... 8:00 pm Teen Experience (Grades 8-12) ... 8:00 pm

Yom Kippur Day (Wed, Sep 19) Morning Service ... 10:00 am Discussion ... 12:30 pm Family Service ... 1:45-3:00 pm Young Family Service ... 2:15-3:00 pm Afternoon Learning ... 2:15 pm Yizkor ... 3:30 pm Afternoon Service ... 4:30 pm Neilah ... 5:30 pm Congregational Break Fast ... 6:30 pm

Rosh Hashanah Day (Mon, Sep 10) Family Service

2:30-3:45 pm

Kabbalat Sukkot Service ... 5:30 pm

(parents and school-age children, grades 2-6)

Sukkot BBQ ... 6:15 pm

Young Family Service

Sukkot Day (Mon, Sep 24) Sukkot Learning with Rabbi Billy ... 10:00-11:30 am

Simkhat Torah Evening (Sun, Sep 30) Cong’l Simkhat Torah and B’nai Binah Celebration ... 7:00-8:30 pm

Simkhat Torah Day (Mon, Oct 1) Yizkor ... 9:00 am

3:00-3:45 pm

(parents and preschool-age children, age 0-7)

Tashlikh (for everyone)

4:00-4:45 pm

(we’ll walk from WCT to St. Joe’s Church)

Yom Kippur Day (Wed, Sep 19) Family Service

1:45-3:00 pm

(parents and school-age children, grades 2-6)

Young Family Service

2:15-3:00 pm

(parents and preschool-age children, age 0-7)

Neilah (for everyone)

5:30-6:30 pm

Consecration Service ... 10:15 am

College and High School Aliyot for the High Holy Days

High Holy Days Sermons Will Be Online

Each year, we are delighted to invite our high school students and college students for a Torah aliyah during the High Holy Days. This year, these will take place at the following times:

Rosh Hashanah Day 2 (Tue, Sep 11) Morning Service ... 10:00 am

Family Services for the High Holy Days

If you find one presentation or another particularly meaningful during Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, or just want to read something through again, you can download it for yourself or to share with others. They will be available at wct.org/ hhdsermons.

Tashlikh – Judaism’s Rosh Hashanah Water Ritual At 4:00 pm on Rosh Hashanah afternoon (Mon, Sep 10), we’ll gather by the stream at St. Joseph of Arimathea Church (just down the street at 2172 Saw Mill River Road ... plenty of parking in the church lot). After spending a few moments considering what hurtful parts of ourselves we’d like to “cast off” in the New Year ahead, we’ll scatter bread crumbs “into the depths of the sea.” Very simple. Very personal. Very powerful. Join us for our 4:00 walk from the temple to the stream (or meet us there), and our “casting off” as we observe Tashlikh. A poignant beginning to 5779. Special invitation: If you have a shofar, bring it. At Tashlikh, everyone is welcome to sound the calls.

• For All College Students Rosh Hashanah Morning Mon, Sep 10 @ 10:00 am • For All Academy Students and WoodSY Members Yom Kippur Morning Wed, Sep 19 @ 10:00 am

The High Holy Days Food Van Bring a Box or Bag of Food on Yom Kippur In Westchester, one in five are hungry or at risk of hunger. The elderly, working poor, single mothers and children ... 200,000 food-insecure Westchester residents. On Yom Kippur, Woodlands collects non-perishable food to donate to local food pantries, directly feeding our neighbors in need. Bring a bag or box of new, healthy food. If you can volunteer for an hour or two to help at the collection truck – accepting donations, checking expiration dates and boxing the food – please visit wct.org/foodvansignup (adults and children grade 6 and older).

www.wct.org

5779 Rev. Meeks Answers Call to Our Bimah Fri, Sep 14 @ 8:00 pm

Pastor Marie Meeks is the new minister at Dobbs Ferry Lutheran Church after completing ten years at Bethany Lutheran Church in Olean, NY. Pastor Marie graduated in 2007 with a Masters of Divinity from Gettysburg Lutheran Seminary. Having grown up in Smithtown, Long Island, she now resides in Dobbs with her adult son and her 3 dogs and 3 cats. Pastor Marie has a daughter who lives in Hudson Falls with her three grandchildren, and another son who lives in Highpoint, North Carolina. When not doing God’s business, Marie is in her sewing room and playing with her dogs. We hope you can be with us to welcome Pastor Marie and her parishioners.

Your Tallit’s Nightlife The tallit (prayershawl) is traditionally worn only during morning prayer. If you’re the shaliakh tzibur (service leader) or you’re coming up for an aliyah (either to bless or to read the Torah), you may wear one for these specific moments. But there’s one time during the year that everyone is invited to wear a tallit at night: Kol Nidre. So for Yom Kippur this year, give your tallit a nightlife and bring it to the tent for Kol Nidre.

Andrew Bordwin

Bring Your Kids Back for Neilah As the sky grows dark, we dim the lights and open the Ark to prepare for the closing of Yom Kippur’s “Gates.” It’s a magical moment. We’d love to have you return with your children and grandchildren for our concluding Neilah service and one final, awe-inspiring tekiah gedolah on the shofar. Neilah begins about 5:30 pm and concludes with the blast of the shofar and a brief Havdalah at 6:30. You’re welcome to come in with your kids at any time.

www.wct.org

Andrew Bordwin

High Holy Days Yom Kippur Afternoon Learning Jewish tradition finds many people staying at temple throughout Yom Kippur day, both to deepen the value of the Holy Day and to make it easier to fast. Between some of our services, we offer some wonderful learning opportunities that you’ll really enjoy: 1) Immediately following our morning service, join us in the Sanctuary for an hour of learning with Zach Plesent, our new rabbinic intern. 2) As the day continues on, come spend an hour with our very own Rabbi Joan Glazer Farber studying and discussing some of our traditional Yom Kippur texts. She’ll take us on a journey into the new Reform makhzor, Mishkan HaNefesh. She’d love to have you join her 2:15-3:15 pm in the Library.

A Note about Yom Kippur Yizkor Our Afternoon Service and Neilah (Concluding Service) on Yom Kippur Day follow immediately after Yizkor. There is no interruption. These services are among the most inspiring moments during the entire High Holy Days, but their beauty is disrupted by congregants leaving when Yizkor concludes. Please remain with us for the final minutes of the day.

Please join us at our Famous Annual Sukkot BBQ Sun, Sep 23, 4:30-8:00 pm A holiday celebration for the whole congregation! 4:30 - Sukkot Family Activities (and Prospective Member table – bring a friend who’ll fall in love with your temple!) 5:30 - Kabbalat Sukkot Service (a 45-minute musical, visual worship for young and old)

6:15 - Sukkot BBQ Through Sun, Sep 16: adults $13, children $7, families $30 On or after Mon, Sep 17: adults $18, children $10, families $40 Bring one side-dish or dessert per family (if possible, make it local, go for organic, and keep it green). And don’t forget, no nuts please! Sign-up online at wct.org/sukkotbbq. Please remember to bring fruits and veggies to hang in the sukkah!

Bring a Friend to the Sukkot BBQ and Help WCT Grow Sun, Sep 23, 4:30-8:00 pm The Sukkot BBQ is a great showcase for our temple. It lets prospective members see us in action – our creativity, our friendliness, our energy, and our powerful sense of community. If you know someone who you think would love Woodlands, please bring them along. For doing so, we’ll give you a $25 credit towards religious school tuition or at our Judaica Shop. While all of you enjoy decorating the sukkah, your friends can also meet our clergy and receive a tour of the temple. We’ll have temple leadership on hand to answer any questions. It’s a fun day to share what you love about Woodlands with your friends and neighbors and eat some great BBQ too. By the way, if you’re looking for a way to get involved with the temple but don’t want to attend a lot of meetings, the Membership Committee could be a perfect match! Please email membership@wct.org and together we’ll make things happen. Help build new member gift baskets, staff a Taste of Woodlands welcome table, or volunteer at a neighborhood street fair. We have a lot of options, depending on what kind of time you have to share. We’d love to hear from you.

How To Be A Reform Jew - Part 2, Continued from p. 1

Build My Own Sukkah?! Building a sukkah at home can make Sukkot exciting and hands-on for young and old alike. It’s really not so complicated. And many sukkah-builders involve their friends, relatives, and even the entire neighborhood in the fun. Sukkot this year begins Sunday evening, September 23 (and tradition has us return home from Yom Kippur services to begin building). Why not let us show you “The Sukkah Project” and other ideas about how to make your own sukkah? Visit wct.org/sukkot for details.

with vibrancy by shifting attention to those who were previously ignored or hushed. Most recently, Rabbi Rick Jacobs, the president of the Union for Reform Judaism, coined it “audacious hospitality.” We are actively inviting people into the fold, rather than just tolerating their presence. For example, in the last twenty years, LGBTQ Jews have been welcomed through various initiatives, including NFTY (particularly in openness to a teen's emerging sense of his/her/their own gender identity). Reform Judaism's ability to apply modern acceptance to our ancient heritage means that LGBTQ Jews have become leaders within our movement's clergy and synagogues. Women have come closer to equal representation in temple leadership and clergy positions. Jews of Color are starting to gain the visibility they deserve, showing the diversity within our community, once thought to be so small and homogenous. Whereas once (and probably still) Reform Jews were accused of trying to look or act too much like non-Jews, we've learned from innovations in other religions and brought it to our own people in an authentic Jewish way (like visual worship). We have also continued to wrestle with what “commandedness” looks like in a setting where we have declared freedom from halakha (traditional Jewish law). In some ways, our Reform wrestling has led to adopting more traditional aspects of Jewish practice – Reform Jews are now wearing kippot, tallitot and even tefillin (heck, keeping kosher is even on the table!). We're not doing it out of guilt or need for acceptance, though. It's coming out of the authentically Jewish drive to explore and experiment with new ideas (or old ideas made new again). And then there is Israel. Whereas once Reform Jews were non-existent in Israeli society, the movement is gaining traction. It is now offering Israelis what Americans have had for decades: a way to live Jewishly that meets the ever-evolving challenges of modern life and tackles them head on. As our world gets smaller and information is disseminated faster, Reform Judaism’s ability to keep up with the times and apply Jewish values and wisdom to it, will be an essential project we all here at Woodlands can be part of and proud of.

Mitzvah Hero Training @ Jammin’ Shabbat

Hevra Kaddisha: Comforting the Mourner

Starting Fri, Oct 5 at 6:45 pm

A Sacred Duty and We Could Use Your Help

Simkhat Torah!! Our annual celebration of Torah and Jewish learning and this year, B’nai Binah ceremony for 20 adult Torah students

Sunday, September 30 Celebration 7:00-8:30 pm Don’t miss our rockin’ Simkhat Torah house band! Witness the awesome experience of unrolling the entire Torah! Bring your entire family – from great-grandparents to grand infants – as we sing, dance and celebrate with our Torah ... the Woodlands way!

e are utterly thrilled and delighted to invite you and your children (through grade 2) to come a little bit early for Jammin’ Shabbat so they can participate in Mitzvah Hero Training. Jewish tradition calls upon each of us to do just and compassionate work in our world, to bring a kinder, safer, happier life to those in need. Our children should learn this as soon as possible. So before each Jammin’ Shabbat service (don’t forget to dress in jammies and bring a bedtime friend!), we’ll have a very brief hands-on community service project for them to complete and take home with them. What a beautiful opportunity to teach our kids about tikkun olam, Judaism’s 4000-yearold passion for fixing our broken world. Mitzvah Hero Training – bringing out the hero inside of every child.

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 compassionate 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.

www.wct.org

September Happenings & Beyond Learning Book Club We meet at 2:00 pm on the second Wednesday of each month: Sep 12, Oct 10, Nov 14, Dec 12, Jan 9, Feb 13, Mar 13 and Apr 10. New readers are always welcome. Come to our first meeting with an idea for a book and discussion.

Wed, Sep 12 at 2:00 pm Last Days of Night by Graham Moore Karen Margulies facilitates

Wed, Oct 10 at 2:00 pm Here I Am by Jonathan Foer Marge Thrope facilitates

Hevra Torah – Come Join Us! On Saturday mornings, whether you bring a little one to religious school or you’re just taking it easy at home, why not come by the temple and spend an engaging, stimulating and uplifting hour talking Torah. Some really nice folks come together each Shabbat morning (9:15-10:15 am) and sit with Billy, Mara or Jonathan to explore the portion of the week. Some of us know a few things about Torah, some don’t know anything. All of us bring our minds and our hearts to meet the text and, together, seek to discover something about it that reaches out across three thousand years to touch our souls. Oddly enough, while wrestling with these words we often see our own selves peering back at us. That just seems to be how Torah works. The focus section is always announced in the weekly email so, if you like, you can read the text beforehand. But if you haven’t read, come anyway. We would love to have you give us a try. Stop by any Saturday morning and take a seat at the table. We’ll help you find the right page and, when you’re ready, we’d love to hear what you’re thinking. Questions are just as welcome as answers! Hevra Torah Learning ... every Saturday morning, 9:15-10:15 am, in the Meeting Room. Come hungry ... for rugelach and intriguing conversation.

www.wct.org

Sukkot Learning in the Sukkah Mon, Sep 24, 10:00-11:30 am

Save the Date!

Always a wonderful Sukkot morning, come nosh on bagel and a shmear while exploring some of Judaism’s greatest texts. We’ll read through the originals and probe them for deeper meanings and contemporary relevance. Led by Rabbi Billy.

Fri-Sat, Nov 30 - Dec 1

Talmud with Rabbi Billy Six Thursdays, Oct 25 - Dec 13, 11:30 am - 1:00 pm The Talmud is a doorway into self-discovery. Containing 800 years of spiritual inquiry, the Talmud has, for 2000 more, beckoned generations of seekers who’d like to better understand the Jewish quest for answers to life’s greatest puzzles: right and wrong, pain and struggle, the existence of God, death. You are warmly invited to join our intrepid team of adventurers and learners. Get yourself a copy of Koren Talmud Bavli, Vol. 1: Tractate Berakhot (English and Hebrew Edition) and jump right in with us (or just visit our first class to try us out). Our conversations are entertaining, frequently enlightening often irreverent, and sometimes life-changing. Contact the office (wct@wct.org) to register. Hope to see you there!

Islam, Judaism, and America – Challenges and Opportunities Sun, Oct 7, 4:00-6:00 pm A discussion between Rabbi Mara Young and Sabeeha Rehman, author of the award-winning Threading My Prayer Rug.

Adult Civil Rights Journey Thu-Sun, Nov 15-18 There’s still time to sign up! Join Ellen and Billy Dreskin in retracing the fateful steps of America’s civil rights movement in Atlanta, Selma, Montgomery and Birmingham. More information and registration at wct.org/civil rights.

A Wonderful Weekend with Rabbi Dan Geffen Once upon a time, Rabbi Dan Geffen was just a kid who wanted someday to become a rabbi. In 2013-14, Dan was our rabbinic intern. We all loved him, loved his rampant goodness and his overabundant scholarship. Now a rabbi in Sag Harbor, NY, Dan’s coming back to Woodlands for one precious weekend. Whether you knew him back then or not, don’t miss this singular opportunity to learn from one of the smartest and kindest rabbis we’ve ever met. Details coming.

Social Action

Immigrant Friends Were you among the WCT congregants who stood in the sweltering sun in front of the White Plains Federal Courthouse this summer protesting the administration’s immigration policy and demanding that children be reunited with their parents? We enter the New Year with the same determination to bring justice and humanity to this issue. Please partner with us. Since the situation is very fluid, we ask you to check weekly emails for the current need. And if you want to act more swiftly, send your name to temple member Andrea Kott (immigrantfriends@wct.org) and she will put you on our immigration alert list.

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

The High Holy Days Food Van Bring a Box or Bag of Food on Yom Kippur In Westchester, one in five are hungry or at risk of hunger. They are elderly, working poor, single mothers and children ... 200,000 food-insecure Westchester residents. On Yom Kippur, we collect non-perishable food to donate to local food pantries, feeding our neighbors in need. Bring a bag or box of new, healthy food (suggested list at wct.org/foodvan). If you can volunteer an hour or two to help at the collection truck – accepting donations, checking expiration dates and boxing food – please visit wct.org/foodvansignup (adults and children grade 6 and older). Also, please sign up to deliver food to our food pantries on Thu, Sep 20, 9:00-11:00 am.

Breakfast Run Sun, Sep 23, 6:45-10:30 am Begin the New Year by doing something new. If you have never done a breakfast run, this is your opportunity. Join us for an extraordinary morning on a NYC street serving breakfast, supplying toiletries, distributing clothing, and bringing compassion and a smile to low-income and homeless folks. Adults as well as middle school and older kids (with a parent) are welcome. Email Michael Silverman and Betsy Schorr (MidnightRunBreakfasts@wct.org). Or if you can’t come along, provide homemade or store-bought breakfast foods and new or gently-used casual clothing. Particularly needed are NEW men’s and women’s underwear and socks.

Woodlands Gift Card Drive at the Sukkot BBQ Sun, Sep 23 Woodlands Domestic Abuse Task Force continues to help families move from Hope’s Door into transitional housing. We do the best we can to provide survivor families with everything they need for a fresh start, but sometimes we just don’t have the time/resources to cover everything. To meet needs as they arise as well as fill in any missing items, we have an annual tradition of asking congregants attending the Sukkot BBQ to bring a gift card from Bed, Bath & Beyond, Target, Kohl’s, etc. and drop it off in the DATF basket at sign-in. Want to join or find out more about the Domestic Abuse Task Force? Email us (domesticabuse@wct.org).

Mitzvah Month is Coming! During the month of October/Heshvan (Oct 1 - Nov 7), you will have an opportunity to try out many of the possibilities for making this world a little better. Is service your thing? Or is it advocacy or education? Maybe you want to partner with an outside organization on shared goals? Or perhaps learn about the similarities and differences in the experiences of Jews and Muslims coming to the US at our October 7 discussion between author Sabeeha Rehman and Rabbi Mara Young, moderated by Cantor Ellen Dreskin. We’ll have it all for you and your family. Pick up a schedule at High Holy Days services and make your selections. We bet you can’t do just one, or even two!

Youth Engagement Teen High Holy Days Rosh Hashanah Evening – Sun, Sep 9 at 8:00 pm Kol Nidre – Tue, Sep 18 at 8:00 pm Join WoodSY for teen services. To start the New Year, we’ll enjoy meaningful, teen-led worship and a program. Bring your 8th-12th grade WCT friends!

Woodlands Receives Award from URJ Summer Camps For the 9th consecutive year, Woodlands Community Temple has received an award from Eisner and Crane Lake camps for sending loads of young people to Eisner, Crane Lake, 6 Points Sci-Tech Academy, the Creative Arts Academy, Kutz Camp, and NFTY in Israel. WCT sent 40 students to URJ summer programs, or about 20% of our religious school population. We’re so proud to receive this recognition of our support of Reform Jewish summer programs. These are a crucial part of building children’s Jewish identity, self-esteem and confidence. By sending our kids to Reform summer programs, we’re helping them shape the future of Reform Judaism, and mold positive, Jewish lives for themselves. For more information about Eisner, Crane Lake, Sci-Tech, Creative Arts Academy or the Kutz Leadership Academy, visit urjyouth.org/camps online.

ShabBarbecue! Saying Bye to Tara

The Simkha Page

Our B’nai Mitzvah

Hello and Welcome Back! We hope you had a fabulous summer!

e’ve been working with our vendors and artists, listening to congregants’ suggestions and requests and look forward to showcasing wondrous Judaica for all your celebrations and everyday Jewish living.

Many of our artists know that receiving a personalized gift enhances the uniqueness of the piece. Our favorite artists, Sara and Michael Beames transform a simkha invitation into a lifelong piece of Judaica. Their wedding invitation with smashing glass tube will be a treasured wedding gift. A Gary Rosenthal Torah sculpture with Bar or Bat Mitzvah passage and date engraved plaque is a unique gift. Speaking of B’nai Mitzvah, shopping for a tallit can be daunting! The range of styles, fabrics and prices is huge! Talk to us and we’ll help you find the perfect one. Our prices are the best available and all profits benefit Woodlands! And this month marks our annual September Surprise Sale!! From September 6-30, choose a sealed ticket and win 10, 15, 20 or 25 percent off your purchase! Take advantage of great prices on tabletop and hostess gifts perfect for High Holy Days celebrations! The Judaica Shop is open, by request, every day the temple office is staffed. Evening and weekend hours are noted in the weekly temple email. Looking for a something special? Email us at judaicashop@wct.org.

L’shana tova! 14

www.wct.org

Marly Leibman

Emma Feldbaum

Sep 15

Sep 29

Torah Portion Vayelekh

Torah Portion Kol HaMoed Sukkot

Hebrew Name Mira Golda

Hebrew Name Eliyana Khana

Andrew Shawn Sep 22 Torah Portion Ha'azinu Hebrew Name Reuven Lev

Todah Rabbah (thank you) to... Volunteers for the June Coffeehouse: Vicki Armour-Hileman, Jill Garland, Larry Katzenstein, Julie Levine, Margot Serwer and Cindy Weniger

The wonderful grilling crew at the Mishpakha ShaBBQ: Stu Berlowitz, Mark Fox, Mitch Klein and Dave Bertan

David Gaffen for his excellent presentation on what in the news is real and what isn’t.

A big thanks to Lisa Linn, for overseeing a movie shoot that took place in our sanctuary in July. Fellow congregant Todd Gordon asked if he could use our space to shoot a funeral scene for an upcoming movie, and contacted Lisa to see if they could work out the logistics. Moving quickly, within a month, Lisa took this initial inquiry to the final wrap, earning Temple some rental income and helping Todd along the way. Thanks also to Todd who thought to ask the question, and to Mike Witkowski, VP Facilities, who opened the building early. As a reminder, you too can rent the Temple for your next party, or even your next film shoot. Just contact Lisa Linn at crowdedclo@aol.com.

Everyone who facilitated learning at our Tikkun Layl Shavuot: Rabbi Billy Dreskin, Rabbi Joan Glazer Farber, Cantor Ellen Dreskin, Corey Friedlander, Cantor Jonathan Gordon, David Bertan, Mike and Imogene Winkleman, Lisa Sacks, Steve Sagner, Jenna Lebowich, and Rabbi Mara Young Our fabulous tech teams that kept the pictures coming during visual worship: Ashley Klein, Dylan Klein, Brendan Chang, Marina Lebowich, Sam Scafidi. Julian Kahn, Maddie Lesser, Jonathan Montague and Daniel Goldberg

Mazal Tov to... Andrew and Lara Leibman as their daughter, Marly, is called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah.

Adele and Dan Tomasetti on the engagement of their daughter, Liane, to Ray Byrne.

Erik and Sharon Shawn as their son, Andrew, is called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah.

Yvette and Larry Gralla on the engagement of their granddaughter, Liane Tomasetti.

David and Esther Feldbaum as their daughter, Emma, is called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah.

Roberta Roth on the birth of her granddaughter, Margot Bess Cohen.

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

Cantor’s Discretionary Fund

In honor of Mildred Hammer’s 90th Birthday, from Ralph Lawrence and Linda Lucks. In memory of our beloved nephew, Howard Taubman, from Ralph Lawrence and Linda Lucks. In honor of our daughter, Sarah, becoming a Bat Mitzvah, from Joel and Pam Chernoff. In honor of Jonathan Montague’s graduation from Adademy, from Mark and Michele Montague. In appreciation of Rabbi Billy, from Your Confirmation Class. In memory of Max Leicht, father of Nelson Leicht, from Nelson and Jackie Leicht. In memory of Anna Leicht, mother of Nelson Leicht, from Nelson and Jackie Leicht. Thank you, Rabbi Billy, and in memory of Vikki Krebs, from Steven Krebs. Thank you, Rabbi Billy, for your kindness, from Karen Margulies. In memory of Elaine Shames, wife of Harold Shames, from Aliza Burton, Larry and Yvette Gralla, Dotty Miller, Don and June Moskovitz, Steve and Suzy Neuburger, Rochelle Novins, Nicole Roos, Audrey Rosen, Jack and Sue Safirstein. In appreciation of Rabbi Billy and in memory of my mother, Miriam Bromberg, from Rich Bromberg and Family. Thank you, Rabbi Billy, for officiating at our beloved, Faith’s funeral, from Judd/ Moskoviz/Young/Calendar Families. Thank you for making our grandson, Graham’s baby naming such a joyous event, from Mark and Fran Weinstein. In honor of the birth of Margot Bess Cohen, granddaughter of Roberta Roth, from Roberta Roth. In memory of Elaine Shames, wife of Hal Shames, from Hal Shames. Donation from Cantor Ross Wolman. In memory of Alan Hersh, from Ilene and Amanda Hersh and Lisa Braunstein. Thank you, Rabbi Billy, for mentoring our wedding ceremony, from Megan Cohen and Eric Stone.

In honor of our daughter, Sarah, becoming a Bat Mitzvah, from Joel and Pam Chernoff. In honor of Jonathan Montague’s graduation from Adademy, from Mark and Michele Montague. Thank you, Cantor Jonathan, for your kindness, from Karen Margulies. In appreciation of Cantor Jonathan and in honor of Logan Cooper becoming a Bar Mitzvah, from Eric Baron. In memory of Norman Leon, uncle of Jackie Leicht, from Nelson and Jackie Leicht.

Rabbi Mara’s Mitzvah Fund In honor of our daughter, Sarah, becoming a Bat Mitzvah, from Joel and Pam Chernoff. In honor of Jonathan Montague’s graduation from Academy, from Mark and Michele Montague. In memory of Faith Zimmerman, grandmother of Rabbi Mara Young, from Corey Friedlander. In memory of Faith Zimmerman, grandmother of Rabbi Mara Young, from Chuck and Nancy Fishman. In memory of Dora Cooke, mother of Jackie Leicht, from Nelson and Jackie Leicht. Thank you, Rabbi Mara, for your kindness, from Karen Margulies. In honor of Aiden Krieg's baby naming, from Brandon and Denise Krieg.

Chai Fund Donation from Lee and Nanci Brickman. In memory of Faith Zimmerman, grandmother of Rabbi Mara Young, from Larry and Yvette Gralla. In honor of Jay Zwicker being elected to the WCT Board of Trustees, from Linda and Mariah Zwicker. In memory of Arlene Schreiber, mother of Karen Berlowitz, from Bob and Penny Apter, Lee and Nanci Brickman, Larry and Nancy Brown, Dassi Citron, Chuck and Nancy Fishman, David and Dayle Fligel, Corey Friedlander, Dale and Elly Glasser, Larry and Yvette Gralla, David Griff and Roni Beth Tower, Joy Handleman, Barry and Laurie Leibowitz, Mark and Michele Montague, Don and June Moskovitz, Harold and Mary-Jo Potischman, Mark and Marjory Selig, Ira and Fern Stein, Roger, Roberta and Allison Wetherbee. In memory of Richard Kernick, step-father of David Yarnold, from Jeff, Alice and Dorothy Smith. In memory of Daniel Tvert, nephew of Ron and Meg Tvert, from Steven and Roberta Florin, David Griff and Roni Beth Tower, Don and June Moskovitz, Max and Sandy Tuchman. In memory of Faith Zimmerman, grandmother of Rabbi Mara Young, from Don and June Moskovitz. In memory of Stanley Lev, husband of Bernice Lev, from Max and Sandy Tuchman. In memory of Barbara Kaliff, grandmother of Tom Rechtschaffen, from Chuck and Nancy Fishman. In honor of Maya Glasser’s ordination, from Chuck and Nancy Fishman. In memory of Marty Shore, father of Cathy Sirotin, from Lee Shore. In honor of Andy Farber becoming WCT President, from David and Debbi Judd. In memory of Lawrence Harnick, step-father of Lyn Halper, from Philip and Lyn Halper. In memory of Miriam Briendel, mother of Bill Briendel, from David and Dayle Fligel. In memory of Miriam Briendel, from Michael and Deborah Wiskind. In memory of Murray Garfinkel, father of Carolyn Best, from David and Dayle Fligel.

The Woodlands Community Mourns the Loss of Joan Beck sister of Stephen Glusker Miriam Briendel mother of Bill Briendel Miriam Bromberg mother of Rich Bromberg Murray Garfinkel father of Carolyn Best Florence Kaplan mother of Alan Kaplan Richard Kernick stepfather of David Yarnold Arlene Schreiber mother of Karen Berlowitz Barbara Rosenblatt sister of Karen Margulies Harold Rubin husband of Ellen Rubin Audrey Irene Sacher mother of Caryn Donocoff. Elaine Shames wife of Harold Shames Robert Silman friend of Jeanne and Murray Bodin and Rochelle Novins Michael Stein father of Adam Stein Daniel Tvert nephew of Ron and Meg Tvert HaMakom y’nakhem otam… may God bring comfort to all who are in mourning. Zekher tzadik livrakha ... may their memory be for a blessing.

September 11, 2001 Zekher tzadik livrakha ... may their memory be for a blessing.

Continued on p.16

www.wct.org

Upcoming Meetings

Board of Trustees Mon, Sep 17 at 8:15 pm

School Board Mon, Sep 24 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.

B’rukhim haba’im Welcome to our newest members! Andrew and Bess Seewald Andrew Goldberg and Emily Friedman

Donations Continued from p.15 Education Enrichment Fund In memory of Faith Zimmerman, grandmother of Rabbi Mara Young, from Penny and Bob Apter, The B’nai Binah Class, Dassi Citron, Corey Friedlander, Gralla/ Chang Family, David Griff and Roni Beth Tower, Barry and Judy Kessler, Barry and Laurie Leibowitz, Evalyn, Jay, Amy and Robert Mendelson Family, Dotty Miller, Bonnie Mitelman, Mike and Liz Scafidi, Ira and Fern Stein, Scott and Julie Stein, Roger, Roberta and Allison Wetherbee, Andrew and Michele Wise, Woodlands School Board, Craig and Ann Zarider, Zwicker Family. In honor of Harriet Levine, from The B’nai Binah Class. In memory of my cousin, Marilyn Margolis, from Joel Chernoff. In honor of Tara Levine, from Lloyd and Roberta Roos.

Social Action Fund In honor of Roberta Roos being honored by the JCC, from Harriet Kohn. In honor of Maya Glasser’s ordination, from Lloyd and Roberta Roos.

Geraldine and Gerald Weinberger Lifelong Learning Fund In honor of Eliza, granddaughter of Marge Thrope, becoming a Bat Mitzvah, from Meryl Lewis. In memory of Faith Zimmerman, grandmother of Rabbi Mara Young, from Gerry Weinberger.

In memory of Elaine Shames, husband of Hal Shames, from Gerry Weinberger. In memory of Elaine Shames, husband of Hal Shames, from Lyn Lubliner.

Jonah Maccabee Fund In honor of becoming a Bat Mitzvah, from Sarah Chernoff. In memory of Elaine Shames, wife of Hal Shames, from Hal Shames. In memory of Ralph Edwards, brother of Barbara Harris, from Max and Sandy Tuchman.

Midnight Run Fund In memory of Audrey Irene Sacher, mother of Caryn Donocoff, from Murray and Jeanne Bodin. In memory of Audrey Irene Sacher, mother of Caryn Donocoff, from David Griff and Roni Beth Tower. In memory of Audrey Irene Sacher, from Scott and Julie Stein. In memory of Audrey Irene Sacher, from Corey Friedlander. In memory of Audrey Irene Sacher, from Lloyd and Roberta Roos.

Environmental Task Force Fund Thank you to Joan Farber for organizing the Recycling Program at Woodlands, from the 2018 B’nai Mitzvah class.

Woodlands Receives Generous Endowment Gift! Memorial Garden Wall Inscribe Your Loved One’s Name

wice a year, Woodlands adds names to our beautiful outdoor Memorial Garden Wall (just outside the sanctuary on the other side of the Ark) and dedicates them during a Yizkor Memorial Service. The fall dedication will be held during Yizkor on the last day of Sukkot (Monday, October 1 at 9:00 am). Please visit wct.org/memorialwall if you wish to have names inscribed on our Memorial Garden Wall in time for the Sukkot dedication, and supply the information requested there - not later than Friday, October 7. The price for inscription is $800 per name. Space may be reserved on the Wall for future inscriptions with full, advance payment. All names (whether they are to be inscribed or reserved) should be submitted at the time of reservation. This allows the engravers to allocate appropriate space for future inscriptions. Zekher tzadik livrakha ... their memories are for a blessing.

www.wct.org

by Stu Berlowitz and Dayle Fligel

e are extremely grateful to the Jacobson family (Michael and Arlene, and Michael’s father Robert) for a generous gift we received from them to Woodlands’ Endowment Trust. Our thanks go out to the Jacobsons for helping ensure a secure future for our synagogue.

What is Woodlands’ Endowment Trust? How does one support it? A financial endowment is a donation of money or property to a nonprofit organization, such that the earnings provide financial support to that institution into the future. Since 2010, Woodlands has had an Endowment Trust, which accepts pledges and donations. Earnings from the endowment are used to help fund the temple’s operating budget, reducing the amount of dues we all pay because of this essential, additional source of income. In most institutions, endowment donations are made, or property is left, to the institution but nothing is paid out until the donor passes away. If you’re interested in Woodlands Community Temple’s endowment, or have questions regarding making a donation, please email endowment@wct.org. What you do now will help the future of Woodlands. Thank you.

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Judai Connection 5779 Rabbi Billy Dreskin

Year of Hope or Despair?

fter I sabotaged my stove over the summer, the repairman, before pronouncing it deceased, said to me, “I think we’re watching the end of America.” My response (besides “My stove made you think of that?”) was, “I’m an optimist. I think we’ll rally and our nation’s democracy will be stronger than ever.” I thought to myself, “Spoken like a true rabbi: taking things seriously, but always looking at the bright side, always encouraging an upbeat attitude.” In fact, it was spoken like someone who’s been living a Jewish life. Let me explain. From our earliest Torah stories, we’ve been taught the importance of hope – optimism – over despair. Adam and Eve’s very first night in the Garden of Eden, when they feared the sun was gone forever, God reassured them it would return. Noah witnessed the end of his world from the Ark’s window, but never once did he hesitate riding out that storm in the hope of starting again. And Joseph was sold into slavery by his own brothers, and yet never lost hope that all life has purpose and his would yet prove to serve a higher one. This does not mean, of course, that we aren’t susceptible to despair. Imagine walking through Moses’ desert during those forty years. Plenty of Israelites lost

dedicated themselves to bolstering their faith and sought a return to Egypt. But community’s hopes for better times. Moses, and so many others? Never. The Hebrew word tikvah (hope) At its most fundamental level, Judaism represents our beliefs, firm or otherwise, is a religion of hope. It’s a belief that that this world should there is a reason for and can be made better. us to live. And across Shortly after Jonah died, millennia, even scientific The Hebrew word Israeli activist Anat rationalism – a different tikvah (hope) Hoffman wrote to me kind of belief, one that that the root of tikvah asserts an empirical exrepresents our beliefs, is kav, which is nothing planation for everything firm or otherwise, that more than a piece of and original purpose for this world should and string. Hope, she told nothing – hasn’t dampcan be made better. me, is a thread we wrap ened our enthusiasm for around our hearts. It meaningful, hope-filled connects us to each other living. We are a people that believes in the future, a good future, and (hopefully) to better times. Hope is at least partly why we belong and we work arduously to create it, to a synagogue. Because we have hope. doing so even though we might not get And we’d like to spend time with others to enjoy its fruits, but that our children or who are hopeful. And we’d like to learn their children might. how to deepen our hopefulness and udaism’s most popular expression perhaps even do something to bring our of hope is through our relationship hopes closer to fruition. with God. In the Book of Psalms There is a prayer recited upon waking (71:5) we read, “You are my hope, O in the morning, “Blessed are You, O God, God, my trust from my youth.” To who gives the heart understanding to be sure, this fervent hope that God discern between day and night.” A will take care of us, while taught and thousand years ago, our rabbis designed believed for generations, it has often a prayerbook that would remind us each been accompanied by an understanding day the importance of wanting to know that life is hard – with illness, scarcity there is a difference, to know that no and death rarely far away – and that it matter how dark the night, that there is can be difficult to hang onto hope. So always hope for a better day. rabbis throughout the generations have And that’s what we do.