the newsletter of woodlands community temple

February 2013

Shevat- Adar 5773

In thIs IssueMusical shabbat eve with todd herzog p. 5

havdalah on Ice is back! p. 9

Blood Drive p.10

Maggie Anton, author of Rashi’s Daughters p. 11

Rabbis’ Winter hunger Appeal p. 12

4th Annual Jonah Maccabee Concert p. 12, 17

What Does Woodlands Mean to us, as an Intermarried Couple? p. 20

Building Jewish Lives: Finding Meaning and Answers in a Challenging WorldBy Corey Friedlander

Life is challenging. Every day we face situations and issues for which we often have no easy answers. Although the specifics of these issues have changed over time, many of the issues themselves have existed since the time of our ancestors. How do care for ourselves as we age? How do we care for our parents as they age and at the same time care for our children, while still managing to care for ourselves? How do we raise our children with the values that they will need to guide their own lives as they mature and then raise families of their own? How does being an interfaith family affect these decisions?

As each generation has engaged and dealt with such issues, Judaism has created a body of knowledge to help guide our decision-making. Our ancient and contemporary texts are an incredibly valuable resource, as are other members of our community who have faced or are facing the same or similar challenges successfully. Recognizing this, the Adult Education Committee formed four task forces charged with developing programs to help us begin to find the answers we need. The hope is that these programs, offered in the month of March will be the beginning of an ongoing dialogue throughout our congregation in each of these important areas of our lives.

The task forces have been working diligently during the last several months to identify those issues of most immediate need to us as we find ourselves in at least one of each of these groups: Seniors, Sandwich Generation, Young Families, and Interfaith Families.

Interestingly, the members of the Seniors Task Force, chaired by Herb Friedman, and those of the Sandwich Generation Task Force, chaired by Caryn Donocoff, found that many of their needs were the same or overlapped so significantly that it made sense for their two groups to join forces to create a joint program.

(Continued on page 8)

Please give to the WCT Annual Fund or Endowment Trust. Contact David Fligel (693-0520) or Chuck Fishman (674-4542).

Our Woodlands Community

Rabbi Billy Dreskin rabbi@wct.orgRabbi Mara Young rabbimara@wct.orgCantor Jonathan Ben Gordon cantor@wct.orgHarriet Levine, Educator educator@wct.orgRoss Glinkenhouse, Youth Director youth@wct.orgCorey Friedlander, Sh'liakh K'hilah corey@wct.org

Executive Committee

Stu Berlowitz, President

president@wct.org

Jenna Lebowich, VP Education

education@wct.og

Dayle Fligel, VP Facilities

facilities@wct.org

Eugene Stein, VP Finance

esteinWCT@gmail.com

Michael Winkleman, VP Programming/Ritual

mike@leveragemedia.com

Steve Sagner, Financial Secretary

financialsecretary@wct.org

Mark Selig, Secretary

secretary@wct.org

Andy Farber, Treasurer

ARFarberWCT@gmail.com

Board of Trustees

Nancy Brown, Andrea Einhorn, Nancy Fishman, Gloria Falk, Aliza Garafalo, Jill Garland, Lois Green, Barry Leibowitz, Lisa Linn, Mike Scafidi, Cliff Schoen, Jay Werner, Rochelle Stolzenberg (ex-officio)

Office Staff (wct@wct.org)

Patricia Nissim, Temple Administrator

Liz Rauchwerger, Rabbi’s Assistant

Michele Montague, Educator’s Assistant

About Our TempleWoodlands Community Temple50 Worthington RoadWhite Plains, NY 10607

914.592.7070 phone914.592.7376 faxemail: wct@wct.orgweb: www.wct.org

Woodlands Community Temple is affiliated with the Union for Reform Judaism

Patricia Nissim, Makom Editor Melanie Roher, Makom Designer Charlie Strick, Makom Advertising

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Adults, teens and kids are all needed to present the music and script for “Annie Purim!” Our (count ‘em!) two rehearsals will be held on

Wednesdays, February 6 and February 20. Pick your time ... either 6:30-7:30 pm or 8:00-9:00 pm.

Come sing with us because the show can’t go on without you! The ever-lyrical Dreskin family promises the usual nuttiness to mangle some of the most successful theatre music ever written!

Sign-up today by emailing wct@wct.org. Song lyrics, mp3 recordings, and lead sheets will be available for download.

• Music, music and more music!• Megillah reading!• Insane costumes!• hamentashen for noshin’!• For congregants of all ages!• the show can’t go on without

you!• nutty lyrics by ellen, Aiden

and Billy Dreskin!• some of Broadways greatest

and most classic tunes! • Outrageous fun for everyone!• Bring yourself! Bring your

parent! Bring your kid!• “Leapin’ lizards!” ... we

“don’t need anything but you!” ... so come tonight, not “tomorrow!”

Join Our Cast for “Annie Purim!”

Greating Ready for Purim at Woodlands

Just two Rehearsals!

Purim Goody Box Fun At Woodlands!Thank you to everyone who honored the tradition of giving at Purim by participating in Woodlands Sh’lakh Manot program. Many congregants have sent goody boxes to the entire congregation, so remember; every Woodlands family will receive a Purim Goody Box. The Purim boxes will be sent home with our religious school students. Additionally,

Your Purim box will be available for pickup: Friday, February 22, after Kidz Purim and Saturday, February 23 after Annie Purim.

Worship ScheduleShabbat YitroFriday, February 1Mishpakha Shabbat at 6:45 pm (note earlier start-time!)Our newest worship experience – for the whole congregation, but earlier so families with kids can attend. Meaningful for adults, engaging for kids! If you like, join us for a quick 6:00 pm dinner, make your reservation at wct.org/mishpakha.

Saturday, February 2Shabbat Morning Service at 10:30 amCelebrate with us as Joel Gardner, son of Eve Gordon and Michael Gardner, becomes a Bar Mitzvah.Exodus 18:1 - 20:26 ... Isaiah 6:1 - 7:6

Shabbat MishpatimFriday, February 8 Musical Shabbat Eve at 8:00 pmwith Todd HerzogVisit toddherzog.com and listen to some of Todd Herzog’s music. We’re sure you’ll want to circle this date on your family calendar.

Saturday, February 9Shabbat Morning Service at 10:30 amCelebrate with us as Jenna Meltzer, daughter of Jodie and Steven Meltzer, becomes a Bat Mitzvah.Exodus 21:1 - 24:18, Exodus 30:11-16 ... Jeremiah 34:8-22 (additional reading for Shabbat Shekalim is Exodus 30:11-16)

Shabbat TerumahFriday, February 15Shabbat Evening Service at 8:00 pmCantor Jonathan will lead Shabbat worship while Rabbi Billy is away.

Saturday, February 16Hevra Torah Shabbat at 9:15 amLed by Cantor Jonathan, Torah learning and Shabbat worship together. No 10:30 service today. Exodus 25:1 - 27:19 ... I Kings 5:26 - 6:13

Shabbat TetzavehFriday, February 22Kidz Purim at 6:30 pmSpecial one-hour Shabbat celebration tonight (note time change). A half-hour of Purim crafts, followed by a 30-minute Purim Shabbat. Bring a dollar for tzedakah!

Shabbat Evening Service at 8:00 pmIt’s been far too long. We’re so pleased that Corey Friedlander will be speaking tonight.

Saturday, February 23No 10:30 service today.

Annie Purim at 7:30 pm If you “hang on ‘til tomorrow,” you’ll miss tonight’s world premier of one of Broadway’s most-loved musicals, downgraded and nearly ruined by the Dreskin’s new, Purim lyrics. So everybody, come and sing – Republicans too, Oliver! For congregants of every age! Don’t miss out!Exodus 27:20 - 30:10, I Samuel 15:2-34 (additional reading for Shabbat Zakhor is Deuteronomy 25:17-19)

Shabbat Kee TeesaFriday, March 1Hurricane Relief Shabbat at 8:00 pmFor seven years, our members have joined in recovery efforts to assist families affected by Hurricane Katrina along the Gulf Coast. This year, we’ve helped folks hurt by Superstorm Sandy as well. Tonight, the participants will share their stories of rebuilding homes and rebuilding spirits. Visual Worship tonight ... no prayerbooks needed (unless you want one).

Saturday, March 2Shabbat Morning Service at 10:30 amCelebrate with us as Jonathan Montague, son of Michele and Mark Montague, becomes a Bar Mitzvah.Exodus 30:11 - 34:35 ... I Kings 18:1-39 (additional reading for Shabbat Parah is Numbers 19:1-22)

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hevra torah Learning, saturdays, 9:15-10:15 am

February 2: Parshat YitroFacilitated by Rabbi MaraFebruary 9: Parshat MishpatimFacilitated by Rabbi MaraFebruary 16: Parshat TerumahFacilitated by Cantor JonathanFebruary 23: Parshat TetzavehFacilitated by Cantor JonathanMarch 2: Parshat Kee TeesaFacilitated by Rabbi Billy

There’s abundant room around our table. Drop by once or often; we’d love to have you join our lively conversation. Usually in the Meeting Room.

Friday night shabbat BabysittingBabysitting is provided by teens from our religious school.

February 8February 15

No reservations are needed! Please contact babysitting@wct.org with any questions.

Reminder to the 7th GradeFamily torah Learning with the Rabbi “section B” Sunday, February 3, 9:00-11:00 am. No Wednesday session this month. See you there!

10th Grade students and ParentsMonday, February 4, 6:00-8:00 pmOur third Confirmation Family Session with Rabbi Billy. All parents and Confirmands should attend. We’ll have dinner together, and then share in family learning. Please contact the religious school office (592-7070 or michele@wct.org) only if you’re unable to be with us.

The Dead Sea Scrolls from Qumran in Israel’s West Bank revealed crumbling fragments that mention details from the Book of Esther. These fragments date back to the 2nd

century BCE while the Esther story takes place in the 6th. They tell of a sleepless king who calls for the books that chronicle his father’s life, mentioning an Israelite from the tribe of Benjamin who had saved the king’s life but had gone unrewarded. Missing are references to Mordekhai, Esther or Haman. But it’s a fragment; we shouldn’t read too much into what’s not there.

The Book of Ezra, written about the same time as the Purim story, mentions Persian kings from Esther’s time period but not Esther or Mordekhai. The First Book of Maccabees, written in 2nd century Israel, references an important battle occurring on the 13th of Adar, one day before Purim yet it makes no mention of Purim. The Second Book of Maccabees, on the other hand, written at the same time but outside of Israel, mentions this same battle occurring just prior to “the Day of Mordekhai.”

These sources might be revealing that Purim caught on more quickly in the Diaspora than in Israel. That may seem surprising, but is it really? How long does it take for any idea to become universally accepted? Not only does the Book of Esther remind us how very human we humans can be, but its transmission does as well. A story of a miraculous rescue in a faraway land? Gee, who’d have difficulty accepting that?

What of the story’s true origins? If Purim really took place, why 3-4 hundred years before reporting it? And if it didn’t really happen, who wrote it and when?

My favorite theory is that Purim emerged amidst the growing (4th-2nd century BCE) oppression in Israel by the Greeks. Nothing like a good yarn about ousting a corrupt government when you’re wondering what it would take to oust a corrupt government.

Whatever the truth behind Purim, it’s inspired generations of our people – to remain proud, strong and brave in the face of would-be conquerors. Today, there may be fewer armies to confront but the threats to our well-being, physical and spiritual, persist. There will always be an urgent need for Mordekhai and Esther to save the day.

With sweet wishes for an irrepressibly joyful Purim,

Kidz Purimfor kidz (& their families!) age 12 or younger

• Friday, February 22, 6:30-7:30 pm (note time change!)

• On the Friday night closest to Purim, all silliness breaks loose!

• First, a half-hour of Purim crafts!• Then, a half-hour of singing and

the Purim story!• Plus Shabbat tzedakah, candles,

kiddush and challah!• Wear a costume, silly!

"a night out...that you will remember for very long time...."

Coming up! Coming up!

Adult Purim Party arrives at WCt, saturday, March 2

The revelry begins at 7:30 pm with.....yum....theme-based appetizers and beverages to surely raise your spirits! Fabulous decorations! The interactive, feather boa imbued Shpiel comes next .....followed by decadent desserts and dancing. We can't wait to see you there! WCT might never be the same! Please come and join a (unique) night of hilarity and F-U-N! Bizarre costumes are highly encouraged if you are so inspired!!!!! Love and kisses, Queen Esther and Frank-n-furter. For more information and to signup go to wct.org/rockyhorror.

The Funtastic Rocky Horror Purim

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f r o m t h e r a b b i

the Quest for Purim’s truth

Musical shabbat eve with todd herzogFriday, February 8 at 8:00 pm

There are Jewish pop performers, Jewish rock performers, and then there’s Todd Herzog. We’d call him a Jewish soul performer. Todd’s music is described by Indie-Music.com as a “full, warm, uptempo adult contemporary sound.” He has “a strong, passionate vocal that hits high notes beautifully.”

We couldn’t agree more, and hope you’ll come meet Todd on Friday, February 8, when he brings his extraordinarily lovely music and his expansive and gentle being to our bimah for an evening of Shabbat musical adventure. Todd will lift your spirit as he quiets your soul, and you’ll feel wonderful for having joined him.

Visit toddherzog.com and listen to some of Todd’s music. We’re sure you’ll want to circle this date on your family calendar.

Open spaces and f r o m t h e C a n t o r

Open Minds

Judaism comes from the country, while Jews usually live in the city. Our Prophets sojourned in isolated rural spaces where they received the divine message. They carried that word back to the community where it

could take hold. Rural and urban ideas are combined in the unified Jewish view of the world.

This country seemed far from unified as I watched the television on election night, when results showed up as squares on state maps. Every map appeared mostly red, while the fewer blue squares contained many more votes. The people spoke with one voice while the landscape seemed to speak with another. It was a disquieting vision to me: a house divided against itself, rural vs. urban.

This split manifests clearly in the matter of gun control. My country neighbors literally weep when they imagine that gun possession may become illegal. The personal right to bear arms is as meaningful to them as is the right to free speech to an urban intellectual. Fathers and children and neighbors bond at hunting season. Guns symbolize the duty of the individual to protect and provide for family and home. The inability of the urban dweller to understand this is seen as proof that the city is morally suspect.

Luckily, certain truths supersede the cultural divide. Research around mass killings will show exactly which weapons murder most and pose a potent danger to life. Such data is there to tally, although the gun lobby has managed to keep the government from adding it up. Certain weapons and ammunition are just too dangerous to be sold to the public. Let them be banned for civilian sale; others insured against damage, registered, and inspected yearly. Just like cars.

Americans will find areas of agreement when we consider the facts about weapons that actually kill. There is a greater good, and our entire society can be brought to understand it, city and country both.

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Dr. Jonah Mink, an Israeli educated American doctor has founded Migrant Health:IL (Migrant Health Israel), an initiative designed to provide less costly health care to 60,000 Sudanese and Eritrean asylum-seekers and migrant workers in Israel. Its goal is to increase awareness of available resources, improve health literacy, overcome language and cultural barriers, coordinate care, and reduce demands on local hospitals.

After the initial grant-funded pilot, the financial involvement of Israeli hospitals and Health Ministry will promote sustainability for Migrant Health:IL. Dr. Mink explains he knows it’s going to work because he did it in New York with community health programs. His hope is to take it worldwide.

“Implementing an electronic medical records system is the key to managed care for this population...The coolest thing is that we are harnessing the spirit of Israeli innovation…and applying it to the health needs of the most marginalized communities...innovation for the common good,” adds Mink.

nominating Committee AnnouncementThe members of this year’s nominating committee were presented to the Woodlands Board of Trustees at the January 28 Board of Trustees meeting - too late for the January Makom printing deadline. In the interests of cost and expediency, this announcement will be emailed to the congregation no later than the end of Tuesday, February 5. The committee names will also be available at the temple office at that time (592-7070).If you are interested in serving on the Board, please send a confidential e-mail to nominating@wct.org.

Just Israel

UPCOMING MEETINGSSchool Board

Monday, February 4 at 8:10 pm

Finance CommitteeSunday, February 10 at 7:30 pm

Ritual CommitteeSunday, February 10 at 7:30 pm

Executive CommitteeMonday, February 11 at 8:10 pm

Board of TrusteesMonday, February 25 at 8:10 pm

Passport to Purim saturday, February 23 6:00- 7:30 pm

Join us for a fun-filled family event before the Purim Megillah reading! Jump inside the Megillah to help Vashti, Esther, Mordekhai, Ahashuarus, and Haman decide what to do next in their part of the story. With funny games and activities set up throughout the temple, we will make it a “Choose Your Own Adventure” Purim extravaganza! We will dance, play, create, and do terrific feats of strength before our time together is through! Come in costume and we will share a quick dinner and lots of holiday merriment.

Check out wct.org/purimpassport to reserve your spot and pay for dinner

•$10 per adult, •$5 per child under 12 - •maximum $25 per family

Teens and kids grades 5 and up interested in helping out please email Ross at youth@wct.org.

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e d u C a t i o n u p d a t e

the Jewish education Project

Last year we were given a grant by the Jewish Education Project through an initiative called Express Innovation, to begin a family project which we called SPARK. At the end of

the year our grant was not only renewed, it was increased so that we could expand what we had begun to do to additional grades and families.

What is the Jewish Education Project? It is more than a new name for the Board of Jewish Education, an organization which had been in existence throughout the country for decades. The Jewish Education Project, has redefined what Jewish education is and can be. We are aware that today’s world is very different than the one in which most of us grew up. Families are not the same as they were even a decade ago. Schools everywhere are trying to adapt, to quote the Jewish Education Project, as “changes in learning, teaching, technology, and social media are transforming the educational landscape at a breathtaking pace.”

Their mission is to spark and spread innovations that expand the reach and increase the impact of Jewish education. They are transforming the experience for families by fostering new models of learning both inside and outside the classroom. They help to provide the resources, networks, and tools to make these changes.

The Jewish Education Project is funded by UJA-Federation. We are fortunate and grateful to have been selected as one of the congregations in the New York area to receive a grant. As a congregation that values education and continually explores new and innovative ways to make education for all of our members compelling, we are benefiting from working with the team of people connected to the Jewish Education Project and collaborating with other congregations.

This year we have expanded our SPARK model to include all families in grades 3 – 6. At the same time, we have begun Kindling, a family programming initiative for kindergarten – 2nd grade. Although different from SPARK, we have incorporated much of what we’ve learned from working with the Jewish Education Project’s Express Innovation team to infuse deeper learning into our primary grades.

L’taken” teen Political Action seminar soon DepartsTwenty of our 10th-12th graders will bus down to

Washington 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. Youth Director Ross Glinkenhouse and Rabbi Billy will lead the group.

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.

Stephen Lelewer

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Friday, February 16:00 pm: Mishpakha Dinner6:45 pm: Mishpakha Service

Sunday, February 39:00 am: 7th Grade Family Torah Study #3 Grp B11:10 am: 6th Grade PACT – Tallitot/Kippot

Monday, February 44:00 pm: 7th Grade Ingelore Program & Film6:00 pm: Confirmation Family Meeting #36:00 pm: Academy

Saturday, February 99:00 am: Gan Hayeled

Monday, February 116:00 pm: Academy

Wednesday, February 134:00pm: 7th Grade Cooking with Jenna7:00 pm: 6th Grade Family B’nai Mitzvah Meeting

Saturday, February 16 – Sunday, February 24No Religious School and Academy

Friday, February 226:30 pm: Kidz Purim Shabbat

Saturday, February 236:00 pm: Young Families Purim Program7:30 pm: Megillah Reading

Monday, February 25Religious School & Academy Reopen

Our Mishpakha in ugandaWoodlands supports the Abayudaya schools - where learning has not limits. Even the outside walls of the schools serve as blackboards. Learn about our relationship with the Jewish community in Uganda at wct.org/abayudaya.

Religious school Calendarf r o m r a b b i m a r a

Be Like Vashti

Last Purim season I wrote to our WCT college kids with a strange request. When I probably should have been asking them to try to be

righteous like Mordekhai or as courageous as Esther, I asked them to be more like Vashti. I’m now making the same request of the rest of you.

You remember Vashti, right? Not exactly the heroine of the Purim story. She’s the one who’s originally married to King Ahashuerus of Persia. As the story goes, King Ahashuerus throws a lavish feast where he takes the opportunity to show off all his gold and finery. One night, very drunk, he orders that Vashti come dance in front of him and his drinking buddies. She refuses and suffers banishment for her disobedience. What reason do Ahashuerus‘ friends egg him on with? Vashti’s actions might inspire a rebellion! Wives all over the kingdom may refuse to obey their husbands!

Vashti sure sounds like a heroine to me. Well, the rabbis of yesteryear also don’t have very nice things to say about Vashti. According to them, she’s vain and stubborn. They say she had a tail. They say that she enslaved Jewish women and forced them to work on Shabbat. Oy.

Those are later interpretations, though. After all, the rabbis need Esther’s arrival on the scene to be particularly pleasing – the rest of the story depends on it. Nowadays, though, Vashti has become a feminist icon in the Jewish world. She’s lauded for her resolute declaration of dignity. She’s a shining example of speaking truth to power and showing restraint when others are acting out.

So this Purim, I encourage you to be like Vashti. The modern take on Vasti, that is. In moments where others are going too far in speaking ill of others (for example), find the inner strength to hold back. When things have gone too far, politically or socially, speak up and/or resist. Vashti teaches us to consider when to show up and to know when to boycott. Even though we may be misunderstood or vilified, the truth of our actions will eventually speak for itself.

B’shalom,

todah rabbah (thank you)!Thank you to Dale Glasser, for generously and so ably facilitating our Ritual Visioning workshop in December.

Thank you to our Academy graduation class 2011-12, for donating 45 copies of the Reform movement’s new prayer book, Mishkan T’filah.

Thank you to Elka Klarsfeld, Amy Green, Barbara Wishner and Gail Wainer for organizing the Purim Goody Bags fundraiser this year.

Thank you to Karen Bernard, Jill Garland and Helen Harper for coordinating the Online Auction.

Thank you to Jay Werner, Mark Kaufman, Marty Cohen, Mike Silverman and DFLC for the Rockaways Rebuilding on Saturday, December 15.

Thank you to Tamir and Jonah Rosenblum for the Rockaways Rebuilding on Thursday, December 27.

starve a Cold by Feeding Your Immunity!By Rabbi Billy Dreskin

“Observe My laws and commandments…that it may go well with you and your children” (Deut. 4:40). So I get that God wants us to pray and to refrain from murder and adultery. But why didn’t God include anything about eating right?

The nutritionist’s “Torah” tells us to gobble up fruits and veggies…also “that it may go well.” Consider the cruciferous vegetable (like broccoli, brussels sprouts, cauliflower and cabbage). These may not have gotten us into the Promised Land, but they might just get us through the cold season. Two servings of them daily (in addition to plenty of other fruits and veggies) may strengthen the immune system, warding off (or reducing the impact of) colds and viruses. All veggies are filled with protective micronutrients, but cruciferous vegetables, when chopped or well-chewed, trigger a chemical reaction that creates an array of compounds to boost immunity.

I’m thinking it must have been a scribal error that broccoli got left out of the Torah. Take that, you common cold!

Each month, “Chew on This” offers a morsel of teaching on how to think Jewishly about food and eating. Dr. Joel Fuhrman’s Eat to Live is our inspiration. Consult a physician before starting your own wellness journey.

Do we have your email address?

If you have not been receiving temple emails, perhaps we do not have the correct email address on file for you. Please email wct@wct.org with your corrected address and we’ll update our records.

Special Note: If you have an “optonline.net” email

address, there is an issue with their spam filters. Please provide us an alternate address to use for your electronic temple communications.

The Young Families Task Force, chaired by Miriam and Dan Emery, has chosen to begin its journey exploring how we can use Jewish values to help guide our children in making informed and healthy decisions on how to spend and give money in our very materially focused world.

Many families at Woodlands are interfaith. The Interfaith Family Task Force, chaired by Tom Beaudoin and Martina Verba, realized that it would be most helpful to start its explorations with Rabbi Billy talking about the current and evolving role of interfaith families in Woodlands followed by a panel led by members of the congregation who will share their experiences.

It’s the goal of our “Building Jewish Lives” program to support us wherever we find ourselves on life’s path, reminding us that we are not alone on our journeys. Our community and our heritage are with us each step of the way. We invite and welcome your participation in the March programs and in creating future ones.:

Interfaith Families at Woodlands: Joys and Challengessunday, March 3, 2:00-4:30 pm

For interfaith families, while Jewish life and identity are explored and deepened at Woodlands, how is the partner’s religious/spiritual/faith identity or heritage, in the immediate or extended family, acknowledged? This session invites reflection on the lives of interfaith families at Woodlands. The first hour will consist of a presentation by Rabbi Billy about the role of interfaith families at Woodlands. The second hour will be devoted to hearing the experiences of members of the congregation, both the wonders and the challenges, led by a panel of Woodlands members sharing their experiences. Both sessions will include time for discussion. Babysitting will be available. Please RSVP at wct.org/bjl.

Jews and Money: Giving and spending in today’s Worldsaturday, March 9, 7:00 pm

Are you challenged by living your Jewish values in a material world? If you have children, do you worry that they are being overly influenced by our consumer society, yet lack certainty on how to make decisions about spending and giving, within your family? Have fun and make friends talking about money and Jewish values over a potluck dinner. Go home with concrete strategies for making your (and your family’s) financial life more integrated with your spiritual life. But leave the kids at home! This is an adults-only event. Please RSVP at wct.org/bjl.

starting the Conversation on Aging A Program for seniors and those Caring for seniors sunday, March 10, 2:00-5:00 pm

Are you a Senior? Do you have a parent who is a Senior? Are you part of the Sandwich Generation? Join us as we explore our changing roles, relationships and responsibilities as we (or our parents) age. Rabbi Lisa Izes will provide the Jewish background and context for our discussion, followed by a presentation of the support that Woodlands offers, a panel discussion with concrete answers to issues such as Medicare and elder law, and then facilitated breakout sessions for more personal reflection. Please RSVP at wct.org/bjl.

Building Jewish Lives: Finding Meaning and Answers in a Challenging WorldBy Corey Friedlander

(Continued from page 1)

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save the Dates!Friday, May 31Saturday, June 1For harriet’s Big send-Off

Harriet Levine, educator extraordinaire, is about to start the next chapter of her life. Yes, she’ll still be found at Woodlands—just not every day, and never on traffic duty.

Come celebrate the impact she’s had on our children’s lives (as well as our own) these last 21 years with:

Friday, May 31A special Shabbat evening service

Saturday, June 1 Cocktails, dinner, and lots of tributes

Say your own personal and public thank you to Harriet with an ad in the service program/journal that will be available at both events.

Help out by volunteering to plan and staff the June 1 event and sell ads for the journal.

For information and to volunteer, contact the temple office: 914-592-7070 or wct@wct.org.

havdalah on Ice is back! Don’t know what this is? It’s an opportunity for all of Woodlands Community Temple to engage together for a night of Judaism, ice skating, and silliness. We have rented an entire rink at Westchester Skating Academy to help strengthen our ties as a community. Don’t miss out on is one of the best nights of the year at Woodlands Community Temple! If you have any

When? Saturday, March 16Time! 7:00 pm to 9:20 pmWhere? Westchester Skating Academy!Why? Cause we love spending time with one another!

L’shalom

f r o m t h e p r e s i d e n t

temple security in an uncertain World

In the aftermath of the tragedy of Newtown, CT, security is on everyone’s minds and I thought it was appropriate to address this topic in this month’s column. Before this tragedy occurred,

Woodlands had already been reviewing our security procedures. Cliff Schoen, one of our Board members, attended a regional gathering about temple security in early November. He has taken on the lead role of evaluating security at WCT and making recommendations as to what we can do to improve our security. Amongst items Cliff is looking into are assessments of WCT’s vulnerability by Homeland Security and providing security training for our staff.

Providing proper security for our members is a careful balancing act between security, resources and providing a welcoming, safe environment for our members and guests. Over the last few years, WCT has added security cameras, began locking the doors during times when the building is in little use (e.g. when school is not in session during the day), and taking other less noticeable measures. While we don’t have full time security personnel on hand, we have an excellent relationship with the Greenburgh police. Our security measures are similar to what other temples in suburban areas around the country are doing. Temples in urban areas naturally have much more resources invested in security.

As we witnessed in Newtown, CT, even when all security measures are followed correctly, it may not be enough to avoid the type of tragedy that occurred there. We promise to continue investigating what reasonable measures we can take to improve our security without turning Woodlands into a fortress that would change the very character of the temple. I am sure we will make some changes that you will notice and others that will happen behind the scenes. If you have specific concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact me at president@wct.org.

Yo u t h m a t t e r s

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Mitzvat Mississippi

The trip is full, our tickets are bought, and as we pack our bags we will carry Woodlands in our hearts. Although you are physically not going with us, you can still make a monetary donation to help pay for the supplies we will be using. You can make a donation to the Mitzvat Mississippi Fund online at wct.org/donate.

Blood DriveIt is a mitzvah to help others in need. There is a shortage of blood supply at the hospitals in our area. On Sunday, March 3, 9:00 am - 2:00 pm, Woodlands Temple is having its blood drive with White Plains Hospital. Anyone between the ages of 17 to 75 who weighs at least 110 lbs can donate blood. 16 year old with parents permission can donate and adults over 75 with a letter from your doctor can also donate. Since only 6 people can donate per half hour session please signup at wct.org/blooddrive, or email Chuck Bauer at lbauera@aol.comor call him at 589-7231 in order to schedule an appointment.

Collection of the MonthFor Domestic Abuse task Force New twin sheet sets, new bath towels, new blankets and pillows or gift cards to Bed Bath and Beyond, Target, or any grocery stores. Please leave gift cards in the DATF Mail Box outside the office.

Mitzvah OpportunityJoin us on Sunday, March 3, 9:00 – 11:00 am, to provide dinner for those who are homeless and have recently come out of the hospital. This is a great opportunity to cook with or without your child while doing a mitzvah. Sign up to cook and/or help supply food at SocialAction@wct.org by Wednesday, February 27.

Advocacy taskforceWhat keeps Reform Jews awake at night? To find out more about issues in Israel sign up for the Israel Reform Action Center (IRAC) newsletter at irac.org. The IRAC represents progressive Jewish values and advocates based on the principles of social justice and equality. For issues in the United States with the Reform Action Center (RAC), Chai Impact Updates at rac.org. The RAC educates and mobilizes the Reform Jewish Community on legislative and social concerns, advocating on the more than 70 different issues

Project ezra Passover FoodHelp us provide newly bought Kosher for Passover Food for 50 elderly, low income Jewish Friends from the Lower East Side. Four ways to help: 1. Donate only newly bought Kosher

for Passover food. 2. Help shop for Passover food not

donated, contact Harriet Kohn at hrsw82@hotmail.com to volunteer.

3. Make a donation to the Project Ezra Fund at wct.org/donate.

4. Need volunteers to give out Passover food boxes to the seniors of Project Ezra, on the Lower East Side of Manhattan. If you are interested, please contact Dalia Abott at DaliaKAbott@gmail.comto volunteer.

Food of the MonthCanned Meats/Fish/Beans

s o C i a l a C t i o n

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Daytime DiversionsDaytime Diversions seeks to bring some relief from the winter doldrums. Set aside the first, second, and third Wednesday of the month to join friends, neighbors, and relatives (whether members of Woodlands or not). At each session, we provide doughnuts, coffee/tea, along with a good movie, an interesting speaker, and a stimulating Current Events meeting.

Wednesday, February 6, promptly at 10:00 am, to view and discuss The Graduate. The 1967 film stars Dustin Hoffman (Ben), Anne Bancroft (Mrs. Robinson), and Katherine Ross (Elaine). Ben has recently graduated college. At his “homecoming” party, the wife of his father’s business partner has Ben drive her home, which leads to an affair between the two of them. This leads to complications when Ben falls for Mrs. Robinson’s daughter. Arrive at 9:45, to settle in with the morning snack, as we begin the film promptly at 10:00 am.

Wednesday, February 13, at 10:00 am, join us for a burning issue for American society. Congregant and worker for immigration rights, Steve Glusker, will bring us a program about “What it means to be an undocumented immigrant in the US today.” With him will be undocumented immigrants of various ages who will describe what it’s like to live in the precarious position of being an “illegal” member of American society. They, as well as an immigrant rights advocate, will also speak about the immigration reforms that are needed to make real changes for millions of undocumented immigrants like themselves. A don’t miss experience!

Wednesday, February 20, at 10:00 am With so much to talk about, we need your input when the Current Events Group meets on Wednesday, February 20, at 10:00 am. A timely agenda is provided, but you are invited to submit additional topics for discussion. Make sure your voice and opinion is heard.

a d u l t l e a r n i n g

Judaism 101: Lifecycles - Marriage/DivorceRabbi Mara YoungSunday, February 10, 9:30 amOur newest monthly adult class, this is a chance for you to experience an overview of Jewish ritual, history and literature. Join us for one or every class. This session will focus on the lifecycle events of marriage and divorce.

Book Club Peony by Pearl BuckWednesday, February 27, 8:00 pmFacilitated by Phyllis HirthPeony is a typical Pearl S Buck novel set in China, involving religion, and has interracial issues. It is about the Kaifeng Jews in the 1850’s province of Honan as seen through the eyes of Peony, a Chinese bondmaid. It is a story of love, tradition, commitment, and a struggle against obliteration by assimilation

s’forim ForumCantor Jonathan Ben Gordon Saturday, March 9, 4:30 pmMy Mothers Sabbath Days by Chaim Grade This moving work about pre war Vilna will be the selection discussed at the March 9 meeting of S’forum Forum. Chaim Grade, the author of great classics of Jewish fiction, has written a rich work reminiscent of Dickens in its astonishing wealth of characters, and strength of place and time. This tender and moving memoir takes us to the very source of his widely praised novels and poems—the city of Vilna, the “Jerusalem of Lithuania,” during the years before World War II. Although this out of print work is often dear, and hard to find, we have obtained a supply of moderately priced volumes for those who wish to participate in the discussion. Contact Cantor Jonathan for information. What a great way to delve into the canon of Jewish fiction! See you there.

Living ethics, Part 2Rabbi Joan Farber Thursdays, February 7, 14, March 7, 8:00 pmHow does Jewish tradition influence the daily decisions of our lives? We will explore issues through the lens of Reform response.

Maggie Anton, author of Rashi’s DaughtersThursday, April 25 at 8:00 pmMaggie Anton, award-winning author of the historical fiction series Rashi’s Daughters, will talk about the research behind her new book, Rav

Hisda’s Daughter: A Novel of Love, the Talmud, and Sorcery. Set in Babylonia and Roman Palestine during the Third Century, a critical period in the history of the

four monotheistic religions, this historical novel focuses on rabbinic families struggling to establish new Jewish traditions in the aftermath of the destruction of Jerusalem’s Holy Temple, while at the same time Zoroastrian Persia battles Rome, fast becoming Christian, for world dominance. Against this backdrop, women excluded from their religion’s official hierarchy, including our heroine, find spirituality as enchantresses, in the very land where the word ‘magic’ originated. All who email us at learning@wct.org with the correct answers to the following three questions about Rashi’s Daughters will be entered in a raffle to win one of three copies of Rav Hisda’s Daughter. (book copies courtesy of Plume Books)

Question #1Whom did Jocheved marry?

Question #2 Who is Rashi named after and why?

Question #3 What Talmudic remedy does Rashi use for fever?

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“ l e h i g h ’ u m ”

By Kara Torrisi

As I’m sure many of my peers would agree, first semester of freshmen year was a rollercoaster in every sense of the word. It was characterized by a series of highs and lows, sharp turns and many surprise curves, both emotionally and academically. My small, hippie, private high school did not prepare me for the large spectrum of personalities that would make up my freshmen hall, nor did my prior education include a complete run through of the Greek alphabet, which would have saved me the embarrassment of mixing up the seemingly identical fraternities of theta chi and theta xi.

Personally, when faced with a new challenge, I tend to turn to familiarity. For me, this came in the form of Lehigh University’s Chabad. After a particularly rough day of trying to comprehend the immense mystery that is Economics, I attended Chabad for the first time. Proudly sporting my “Lehigh’Um” shirt that was handed out at the club fair, I entered Rabbi Greenberg’s home and was immediately welcomed by the intense aroma of matzah ball soup and brisket. After an evening of discussion on Jewish philosophy, which resembled 7th grade Torah study with Rabbi Billy, and a mandatory go-around of the most inspirational thing that had occurred during each of our weeks, I was hooked. I began attending Chabad every Friday night, each week bringing more people, even some of my non-Jewish friends, who have quickly discovered the importance of food to Jewish culture.

Having a reliable and supportive Jewish community has definitely made my adjustment to college life more comfortable. It has allowed me to connect with a wide variety of people who were raised on the same Jewish values, even including finding an “NJB” (nice Jewish boy). Judaism has provided me with a sense of stability, at a time when everything seems to be new and unfamiliar. It is the one part of my life that I know will always be there, even when everything else is changing.

Kara Torrisi is currently a freshman in the College of Arts and Sciences at Lehigh University exploring various areas of study, (aka undeclared).

If you’ve embarked upon your post-high school life (college or elsewhere) and have a Jewish experience or story to share with us, we’d love to hear from you! Contact Rabbi Mara (RabbiMara@wct.org) to volunteer.

ten Reasons to Come to the Fourth Annual Jonah Maccabee Concert

1. Hear the enchanting voices of Chana Rothman, Michelle Citrin and Elana Arian, three of America’s top female contemporary Jewish musicians.

2. Welcome the Jonah Concert to Woodlands. For the first time, we are thrilled to host the concert in our own sanctuary.

3. Now you have two choices: a one hour concert for elementary school aged children and their families at 5:00 pm and our traditional concert for older kids and adults at 8:00 pm.

4. Support a great cause. Proceeds help send Woodlands kids and teens to wonderful Jewish youth programs, including URJ summer camps and NFTY programs in Israel.

5. Honor the legacy of Jonah Maccabee Dreskin, who loved music, Jewish camping and our Woodlands community.

6. Join in Havdalah with the Dreskins, a beautiful ceremony marking the end of Shabbat and the start of a night of celebration and community.

7. Enjoy a night out with the family. There is no better entertainment for all ages.

8. See friends. You’ll be amazed at who shows up for this event.9. Have a scrumptious nosh. The Woodlands baking brigade outdoes itself

every year.10. Go home on a high. Words can’t explain how one evening can be both so

moving and such great fun. You just have to come and experience it.

The concerts will take place on Saturday, April 13, 5:00 pm and 8:00 pm. Buy your tickets today at wct.org/jonah or stop by the Woodlands office.

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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 The Food Bank for Westchester. But it’s simply not enough to get folks through the winter.

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.

The Food Bank for 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.

Rabbis’ Winter hunger Appeal throughout FebruaryNeedy families need your help!

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Friday, February 8

Frances BakerEli R. BibiSylvia BlumertDavid BoehmMax ChernoffKaren D’AmicoLydelia deWinterRuth FelsherJerry GewirtzMartin GoldbergMeyer GrallaSonia KarlitzMorris KingstonMorris KingstonDorothy B. KiselikMollie KravitzNettie LearBen LebowichRose LevinsonLester MacksPam MillerBenjamin PerlmanJosif RothMarvin RushkoffHarry SachsMartha SaveloffLena SchlesingerElizabeth SchwartzMaxwell M. SeidenWalter SeidmanStanley SingerRuth Werblow

Friday, February 15

Riza AdlerJulius BloomRhoda CherniakIrene EpsteinSally FeinsilberArnold FriedlanderAdela FroimowitzVincent GarofaloGazelle GoodsteinRuth GordonBlanche GotthelfLoretta HaimesRobert HennesseyHerman Hersh

Bernard IzesElizabeth JacobRhoda KronenbergerHarvey KushmanHerbert LevittHerbert LevittJordan MashRobert MorrisLazar RabinowitzSeymour RapfogelRobert Norman RicklesEthel RosenbergRobert RosenfeldRobert RosenfeldRobert RosenfeldTemi SalomonMorton SavadaBella ScheinHerman SchwartzDorothy SilmanMilton SteinPaul TomkinRuth Trell

Friday, February 22

Ruth Piltz BellEdgar BendheimMax BergmanMark BerkowitzHarry DunayMike FeldbaumMark FischgrundMortimer and Sara FoxRae FriedlanderJack GoodsteinAbe GordonHyman GordonJoseph GotthelfLoretta HarrisArthur HermannDavid JurdemOscar KaplanBeatrice KaplanMilton KatzStanley KatzReva KleinbergHarold KohnWilliam LaVineGeorge Oppenheim

Gerardo PinzonArnold RothSamuel Aaron RubinsteinMilton RugoffAnita ShafferDora SilbermanPhilip SobelMandel SteinJacob SternRichard TankeIrving WoolfAnne ZizmorGeorge Zizmor

Friday, March 1

Lena Arbore-TenebrusoMorris CohenHenry CoopermanSheldon FinebergJoel FinkelsteinHenry GlickYetta GoldsteinRoss GottliebEsther GriffMurray HeymanRobert HowardTammy KaskawitsEdna KrameisenCharles KronenbergerBernard LandauSelma LeffGertrude LeightShirley MedvinBella MelwormRose MillerSteven NeuwirthClara PerlmanDorothy PinnolisEleanor S. PinzonNorma RagirSonia RevzinDena RothschildElias SavadaBenjamin SchachatJack Yak ScharfHyman SiegelEddy Zalaznick

February Yahrzeit (23 shevat - 20 Adar) The Woodlands Community Mourns the Loss of

Alfred Cassotta uncle of Angela and Irv Adler

Rhoda Katz mother of Karen Fox

Natalie North Lapham mother of Amanda North

Rechtschaffen

Norma Leifer mother of Ellyn Glasser

Robert Anthony Young father of Ann Zarider

Hernando Solano father of Albert Solano

We Join in extending our CondolenCes

Honor a Loved One Bookplates Now Available

It is a time-honored Jewish tradition to honor people we love by making tzedakah contributions on their behalf. Now, in addition to contributing to our regular funds, you and your family may purchase bookplates to dedicate individual copies of our High Holy Days makhzor, Gates of Repentance. And your donation will help us purchase new prayerbooks as the need arises.

• Bookplates cost $36 each. • 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

HaMakom y’nakhem otam… may God bring comfort to all who are in mourning.

Zekher tzadik livrakha ...

may their memory be for a blessing.

Professionals’ Mitzvah FundsRabbi’s Mitzvah Fund

Supports various individuals, organizations and/or programs at the discretion of the Rabbi. (Checks should be made payable to the Rabbi’s Mitzvah Fund. Please specify Rabbi Billy or Rabbi Mara.)

Cantor’s Discretionary FundSupports various individuals, organizations or programs at the discretion of the Cantor.(Checks should be made payable to the Cantor’s Discretionary Fund.)

Educator’s Enrichment FundProvides special programs for the Religious School. (Checks should be made payable to the Educator’s Enrichment Fund.)

WCT Program Support Chai Fund (formally The General Fund)

Supports the general needs of the Temple. All unspecified gifts are placed into the Chai Fund.

Endowment TrustProvides a long-term endowment to support the financial needs of Woodlands Community Temple.

Outdoor Memorial GardenWith the purchase of an inscription, you can memorialize loved ones, provide for the maintenance and beautification of our Memorial Wall and Garden, and contribute to the general needs of the Temple.

Library Fund Funds the purchase of books for our library.

Lifelong Learning FundDedicated to creating an ever-growing love of Jewish learning and living through ongoing educational exploration for all members of our congregation.

Music FundUnderwrites special music programs, purchases music for the Cantor and Woodlands Singers, and funds Jewish Music Month activities.

Rabbinic Intern Fund Supports the hiring of a rabbinic student to assist our Rabbi and work with our Temple community.

Scholar-In-Residence Fund Supports the Scholar-in-Residence program.

Torah and Ritual Fund Provides for repairs of our Torah collection and for other ritual needs of the Congregation.

Prayerbook Fund Funds the purchase and maintenance of siddurim, High Holy Days prayer books, and Torah commentaries through the purchase of dedicatory book plates.

Scholarships and Support Bernard and Frances Shapiro Chesed Caring Community Fund

Supports Temple members in need and the activities of the Chesed Caring Community.

Mazal tovMazal tov to Michael Gardner and Eve Gordon, as their son, Joel, is called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah.

Mazal tov to Steven and Jodie Meltzer, as their daughter, Jenna, is called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah.

Mazal tov to Charles and Carol Kessler, on the birth of a granddaughter, Farrah Avery Kessler, daughter of Brad and Jennifer Kessler.

Mazal tov to Bill and Barbara Abram, on the birth of a grandson, Connor Richard Feeny, son of Carolyn and Eric Feeny.

Mazal tov to Rabbis Erin Glazer and Joe Skloot, on the birth of a daughter, Maya Jane Glazer-Skloot.

Mazal tov to Audrey and Larry Kaplan, on the engagement of their daughter, Ilana, to Mike Wollin.

t h e s i m k h a p a g e

B’nai MitzvahJoel Gardner

February 2 Torah Portion Yitro Hebrew Name Peled

Jenna Meltzer

February 9 Torah Portion Mishpatim Hebrew Name Yonina

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

Rabbi Billy’s Mitzvah FundIn memory of Howard Michaelson, from Audrey and Richard Michaelson.

In honor of Rabbi Billy, from Michael and Jenna Lebowich.

In honor of Rabbi Billy, from David Berman.

In honor of Rabbi Billy, from Faye and Evan Friedman.

In appreciation to Rabbi Billy and in honor of Jacob O’Donovan becoming a Bar Mitzvah, from Gene O’Donovan and Linda Batwin O’Donovan.

In appreciation of Rabbi Billy, from Lloyd and Roberta Roos.

In honor of Charlie, from Lori Bluberg.

Thank you Rabbi Billy and in memory of Cynthia Landis, from Patricia Nissim and Eileen Freedman.

Rabbi Mara’s Mitzvah FundIn appreciation of Rabbi Mara, from Lloyd and Roberta Roos.

In honor of Rabbi Mara, from Michael and Jenna Lebowich.

Thank you Rabbi Mara, from Jonathan and Kirsten Kleinman.

In appreciation to Rabbi Mara for officiating at our wedding, from Tami Schlossberg and Mike Tepper.

In honor of Rabbi Mara, from Faye and Evan Friedman.

Cantor’s Discretionary FundIn honor of Cantor Jonathan, from Michael and Jenna Lebowich.

Educator’s Enrichment FundDonation, from Diana and Henry Asher.

In honor of Harriet Levine, from Faye and Evan Friedman.

In honor of Harriet Levine, from Michael and Jenna Lebowich.

In honor of Samara Scharf becoming a Bat Mitzvah from the School Board.

Education and Youth Activities Fund

Donation, from Michael and Jenna Lebowich.

In honor of Ross Glinkenhouse, from Faye and Evan Friedman.

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WCT Funds Available for Your Support

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

Chai FundIn honor of Larry and Yvette’s 60th Wedding Anniversary, from David Glickenstein.

In honor of Larry and Yvette’s 60th Wedding Anniversary, from Jane and Bob Steinhardt.

In honor of Larry and Yvette’s 60th Wedding Anniversary, from Susan and Mort Aron.

In honor of Yvette and Larry Gralla’s 60th Wedding Anniversary, from Claire Edwin-Newman.

In honor of their new granddaughter, Farrah Avery Kessler, from Carol and Charles Kessler.

In memory of Norma Leifer, mother of Ellyn Glasser, from Deborah and Michael Wiskind.

In yahrzeit memory of Murray Fishman, father, from Nanci Brickman.

In yahrzeit memory of Murray Fishman, husband, from Lila Fishman.

In yahrzeit memory of Pauline Sachs, mother, from Lila Fishman.

In Yahrzeit memory of Melvin Sachs, father, from Lila Fishman.

In memory of Rhoda Katz, mother of Karen Fox, from Stu and Karen Berlowitz, Bill and Gloria Falk, Andy and Joan Farber, David and Dayle Fligel, Corey Friedlander, Dale Glasser, David Griff and Roni Beth Tower, Charles and Carol Kessler, Carol and Bob Kronenberger, Andy Loose and Jill Garland, Jon Richer and Lisa Sacks, Michael and Paula Stoler, Bobby and Bob Yeshion.

In honor of Rachel Best becoming a Bat Mitzvah, from Roberta, Roger and Allison Wetherbee.

In memory of Arnold Rosenblum, from Roberta, Roger and Allison Wetherbee.

In memory of Norma Leifer, mother of Ellyn Glasser, from Gloria and Bill Falk.

In memory of Norma Leifer, from David and Dayle Fligel.

In yahrzeit memory of Jay Novins and Kevin Novins, from Rochelle Novins.

In memory of Natalie North Lapham, mother of Amanda North, from Stu and Karen Berlowitz.

In memory of Natalie North Lapham, from Lois Green.

In memory of Natalie North Lapham, from David and Dayle Fligel.

In memory of Robert Anthony Young, father of Ann Zarider, from Lois Green.

In memory of Robert Anthony Young, from Stu and Karen Berlowitz.

In honor of our grandson, Yehoshua Carasso’s marriage in Israel, from Bob and Jane Steinhardt.

In memory of Cynthia Landis, from Bob and Jane Steinhardt.

In memory of Julius R. Steinhardt, father, from Bob and Jane Steinhardt.

In memory of Dorothy Bohrer, from Pamela Greenhut.

In memory of Hernando Solano, father of Albert Solano, from David and Dayle Fligel.

Steve’s H.O.P.E. FundIn memory of Steve Lelewer, from Frederick Block.

In memory of Dorothy Bohrer, from Faye and Evan Friedman.

In loving memory of Stephen Lelewer, from Michael Mitelman.

In memory Stephen Lelewer, beloved grandson, from Frieda Cossman.

Jonah Maccabee FundIn memory of Elaine Goldberg, from Jackie and Nelson Leicht.

Interfaith Caring CommunityFundIn appreciation of a meaningful Interfaith Thanksgiving Service, from Rick Kaskawits.

Mitzvat Mississippi Fund

In honor of Stu Berlowitz, from Faye and Evan Friedman.

In memory of Robert Anthony Young, father of Ann Zarider, from David and Dayle Fligel.

Donation from Arthur Pell.

Special Education FundArnold Rosenblum, father of Judy Flamm, from Dayle and David Fligel.

Rabbinic Intern FundDonation, from Jeanne and Murray Bodin.

In honor of Rabbi Billy from, Faye and Evan Friedman.

In honor of Rabbi Mara, from Faye and Evan Friedman.

Project Ezra FundIn memory of Rhoda Katz, from Joan Schechter.

Ritual and Torah FundIn honor of Larry and Yvette Gralla’s 60th Wedding Anniversary, from Sy and Sarah Donner.

In honor of Larry and Yvette Gralla’s 60th Wedding Anniversary, from Ruth Lefkowitz.

In memory of Rhoda Katz, mother of Karen Fox, from Ruth Lefkowitz.

Abayudaya FundIn honor of Jeanne Bodin, from Corey Friedlander.

In honor of Roberta Roos, from Corey Friedlander.

Gates of Repentance Bookplate FundIn memory of Rhoda Katz, mother of Karen Fox, from Lois Green and Family

In memory of Boris Abraham Belmont, from Adriane and Joel Belmont.

In memory of Emreck Feinsilber, from Adriane and Joel Belmont.

In memory of Diana Belmont, from Adriane and Joel Belmont.

Hurricane Sandy Fund Becca Bohrer, Michael and Jenna Lebowich, Patricia and Michael Nissim, Jonathan Richer and Lisa Sacks.

Domestic Abuse Task ForceDonation from Michael and Jenna Lebowich.

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Expanding Jewish Horizons Fund Provides support for individuals post college age for travel to and attendance at Jewish educational and cultural programs.

Lay Professional Development FundSupports members of the congregation pursuing lay professional activities for the benefit of the Congregation.

College Enrichment Fund Assists members of college age to attend Jewish programs such as URJ and NFTY conventions. Established in memory of Buddy Klein.

Confirmation Israel Study Fund Aids Confirmation students where needed so they may travel to and study in Israel. Established in memory of Ellen Block.

Education & Youth Activities Fund Funds special religious and educational needs for young people, other than college, including NFTY camp and program scholarships. Established in memory of Harriet Rosen.

Special Education Fund Supports special education programs within the Religious School.

Steve’s H.O.P.E “Helping to Open People’s Eyes,” this fund promotes social justice, individual responsibility, and moral action through the Civil Rights Journey, L’taken Political Action Seminar, and other projects. Established in memory of Stephen Lelewer.

Social ActionSocial Action Fund

Funds projects organized by the Social Action Committee.

Abayudaya (Jews of Uganda) Fund Helps the impoverished Abayudaya community to become self sufficient.

Domestic Abuse Task Force Helps us to provide assistance to victims of domestic violence leaving the Hope’s Door shelter and reestablishing their lives.

Hunger FundSupport organizations that help the hungry and homeless in our community.

Interfaith Caring Community Fund Consortium of local churches and synagogues that provide continuous care for those in need, here in our local Greenburgh community.

Midnight Run Fund Supports the congregation’s participation in Midnight Run, which collects and distributes food, clothes and toiletries to homeless people living on the streets of Manhattan.

Mitzvat Mississippi Supports trips to the Gulf Coast of Mississippi and Louisiana to aid in the rebuilding of the area following the devastion of Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

Project Ezra Supports the elderly Jewish poor of the Lower East Side.

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Woodlands Calendar February 2013 shevat - Adar 5773

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We thank o ur A d ve r t i s e r s fo r th e ir Sup p o r t

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We thank o ur A d ve r t i s e r s fo r th e ir Sup p o r t

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We thank o ur A d ve r t i s e r s fo r th e ir Sup p o r t 19

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current resident or:

Our Woodlands Connection

What Does Woodlands Mean to Us, as an Intermarried Couple? By Irving and Angela Adler