Summer 2011 5771 iyar • sivan • tamuz • av • elul jewish reconstructionist congregation News jrcVolume 4 Number 2

IN THIS ISSUE Billy Kaplan presents A Shabbat Sweet A note from our cantor Friday, June 3, 7:00 PM – 2 – beach services Experience a soaring, spiritual journey as JRC member and composer Billy Kaplan premieres his – 2 – original folk-rock Kabbalat Shabbat service, accompanied by his baritone ukulele and the Maxwell standing on one foot Street Klezmer Band. Billy’s lively, soulful prayer melodies are destined to become JRC classics! – 3 – staff changes When Billy Kaplan’s daughter, – 3 – Hannah, was preparing for her Bat adult programming Mitzvah last March, he got inspired – 4 – by her and wrote new melodies for two 2011–2012 membership of the traditional prayers—Oseh Shalom renewals and Adon Olam. As she and he both – 4 – agreed that she needed to be the one to high holiday committee – 5 – shine the day of her Bat Mitzvah, Billy member profile: didn’t share the melodies with the shirley gould community that day. He asked her what – 5 – she would like him to do with them religious school and she replied, “Why don’t you play them Friday night before my Bat Mitzvah?” – 6 – (Continued on page 14) youth group news – 6 – early Childhood Rabbinical Commentary — Brant Rosen – 7 – Did you know that we’re not the only Reconstructionists out there? Photos: our children There is in fact a Christian Reconstructionist movement, however, – 8 – you should know they adhere to religious tenets that are decidedly kvell korner different from Jewish Reconstructionists. In short, Christian Reconstructionists are – 9 – far right religious fundamentalists. Here is their mission statement, as described by library news their primary ideological institution, the Chalcedon Foundation: – 10 – contributions (Christian Reconstructionism) labors to articulate in the clearest possible – 11, 12, 13 – terms a distinctly Christian and explicitly Biblical solution to the prevalent thank yous evils of the modern world. Our objective is nothing short of setting forth the – 13 – vision and program for rebuilding the theological fortifications of Christian new members – 13 – civilization. These fortifications have been eroded by the forces of humanism Gesher and secularism... We work to press the claims of historic Christianity as the – 15 – Biblical pattern of life everywhere. We work for godly cultural change across jrc information the entire spectrum of life. – 16 – More alarming than these ideas of Christian Reconstructionism is its increasing funeral plan – 16 – influence in the American political area. Last week, in the aftermath of the deadly tornadoes that swept across the South, Georgia State Representative (Continued on page 16)

Rabbi Rosen can be reached through the JRC office: 847.328.7678. In case of emergency, he can be reached at home: Affiliated with the Jewish 847.475.9603 where an answering machine will record your message if he is out. Email address: @jrc-evanston.org. Reconstructionist Federation 2

A Note from Our Cantor — Howard Friedland I have used this column, over the last several years, to talk about things important to me, and things that aren’t important to anybody. Now, I’d like to talk about something of great importance to all of us: Jewish Reconstructionist Congregation, and my first-hand experience as to why JRC is so vital. My mother, Ruth Friedland, died a month ago. Mom was a member of JRC for nearly 10 years. She served on the Membership Committee and came to services with me every Friday night. (Saturday morning was a bit early for her.) She was shown so much kindness by so many of you. “What do I need a for?” Her funeral and burial took place in Springfield, Illinois. We returned [M]y stock answer has always been, here for shiva. Now to the topic at hand: “You’ll need it when your mother dies.” During the shiva, I mentioned that whenever I encounter Jews who are not affiliated with a synagogue, and who ask the question, “What do I need a synagogue for?” my stock answer has always been, “You’ll need it when your mother dies.” Truly, that’s what I say. Of course, I believe in shul membership for countless reasons, but the death of a parent is a big one. I deal with death professionally. I am with people before, during and after they die. I know all of them at least fairly well. Some, I know very well. I like to think I’m a calm, steady presence in those moments. I know whom to call to make arrangements, I know how to give comfort. But that all goes by the wayside when it’s your mother who died. You don’t think as clearly. You feel lost and dazed. That’s when you feel the amazing comfort of those who come to your house for shiva. People sent food, flowers. JRC people came in hoards. We got notes and emails and phone calls. All of those things mean so much! The smallest gesture is the greatest gesture when you’re mourning. We’re getting back on our feet, back into life. On behalf of my family, and my brother, Lew, and his family, I want to thank all of you for your kindness to Ruth in life, and for your comfort and support to us after her death. She really loved living here, and she loved being involved in JRC. Her death was not a surprise. She was 90 years old and lived a fantastic life. Even knowing that, I feel sad sometimes. But, oddly, these days when I’m prone to cry, it’s because of the overwhelming gratitude that I feel being surrounded by so many loving friends. That’s why you need a synagogue.

Beach Services Join your JRC family for our informal, family-friendly Friday night shabbat services led by Rabbi Rosen and Cantor Friedland along the beautiful Evanston lakefront. There’s no better place to spend shabbat in the summertime! Pack a dairy/vegetarian picnic dinner (no alcohol, per the Evanston Park District) and come early to eat and schmooze. (6p.m.–picnic dinner, 7pm–shabbat service, 8pm–oneg, snacks) July 8 Noah’s Playground, (in Lawson Park near the Lighthouse Landing Center), Evanston July 22 Elliot Park, Evanston (Dempster Street Beach) August 5 Elliot Park, Evanston (Dempster Street Beach) August 19 Elliot Park, Evanston (Dempster Street Beach)

For more information, please contact Tom Samuels, Membership & Program Coordinator at [email protected]. 3

Standing on One Foot — Joshua Karsh This is my last newsletter column as president, as I vacate the seat and Freddi Greenberg, who will be JRC’s very capable next president, takes office. There have been some moments during my term that I’ll always remember: a Sunday afternoon when I (and others) bailed water from the first floor while waiting for a plumber to come; last year’s Erev Rosh Hashanah when members of the Westboro Baptist Church picketed our services bearing signs saying, JRC has very talented clergy and staff, “ is Doomed,” making me ponder how many different ways that statement could be understood; the afternoon when, while interviewing board members who take candidates to pick JRC’s new executive director and considering whether the responsibility seriously,... to use a personality assessment tool as part of the screening process, I and tremendous reservoirs took the assessment myself and flunked a part of it; and the night I made remarks to the congregation from the bimah about the binding of Isaac, of good will.... causing one of our sons to ask me why I was threatening him. All in all, I think serving on the JRC Board is a pretty good gig. JRC has very talented clergy and staff, board members who take the responsibility seriously, no permanent factions, and tremendous reservoirs of good will—all of which make elected office much easier. And hands down, the best part has been getting to know more of you. This congregation is a remarkable collection of people. (top–bottom) Louis LeBlanc, Ernesto Vega, I encourage all of you to serve on the JRC Board or a JRC committee at some point. and Rick Valentin The more members that share that experience, the stronger JRC becomes, making it a better and more inspiring shul for all of us.

Staff Changes at JRC — Sharon Díaz, Executive Director Have you met our new custodians? Louis LeBlanc and Ernesto Vega have joined our staff and between them they bring 25 years of experience. Louis was a custodian at Evanston Township High School for almost 20 years. You’ll find him at JRC usually on weekdays keeping our building spotless. Ernesto worked at Temple Chai in Long Grove for six years where he learned the ropes from their head custodian. You will find him here mostly on evenings and weekends. He keeps our meetings and events humming along. Other new staff: Chances are you’ve already met Rick Valentin. Rick is our “door monitor” on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings, when we tend to have a lot of activities. He’s been making sure folks have an easy time getting in and out of JRC. In April we said goodbye to our long time bookkeeper, Tuly Faden. After 19 years at JRC, Tuly was well liked and we will miss her. Earlier, our other bookkeeper, Richard Barwacz, left after a short time at JRC to move closer to his son in Iowa. So we now have a new bookkeeper, Mike Schuppe. Mike has over 10 years of experience and has his own consulting business. Mike is still learning our systems, but you can contact him with any question about billing or payments at [email protected]. So the next time you’re at JRC, please introduce yourself to Louis, Ernesto, Rick and Mike and help them to feel welcomed into our community. 4

Adult Programming — Tom Samuels, Membership & Program Coordinator

Adult B’nai Mitzvah Program It’s often said that education is wasted on the young. With this in mind, JRC’s next Adult B’nai Mitzvah program is starting this September. The program is an 18-month commitment for those who want to enrich their Jewish life, expand their connection to the JRC community, and are interested in a meaningful Jewish learning experience. This is a journey through Judaism using a seminar-style program, exploring prayer, Jewish history, life-cycle events and holidays. Classes are taught by in-house JRC experts, as well as and educators from across Chicagoland. In addition to grappling together with text-based materials, you will be part of a fun and informal learning experience, including Friday night dinners at each other’s homes and at the synagogue. 2011-2012 Membership Any adult JRC member can participate in the Adult B’nai Mitzvah program - even Renewals if you became a bar or bat mitzvah as a kid, this is a wonderful opportunity to learn from a grown-up perspective. And, it’s a wonderful bonding experience; many of Keep your eyes peeled JRC’s previous adult B’nai Mitzvah classes continue to get together to pray, learn, to your mailbox for the and socialize. 2011-2012 Membership Renewal kits! For more information and to sign up for our Adult B’nai Mitzvah program, contact Tom Samuels, JRC’s Membership and Program Coordinator. Any questions, please contact Tom Samuels, Membership & FEST (Families Enjoying Shabbat Together) Program Coordinator This year’s family-friendly Saturday morning service and oneg, FEST, was at tsamuels@jrc- successful beyond anyone’s expectations. A typical service was standing-room-only evanston.org. with children, parents and grandparents, all celebrating Shabbat together as a community. Families love FEST for its warm, engaging and spiritual break in an otherwise hectic family schedule. Rabbi Brant Rosen and Cantor Howard Friedland lead this lively and informal 40-minute Shabbat service, followed by a potluck oneg (Shabbat reception). FEST is already scheduled for once a month starting in the fall.

If you’re interested in celebrating a family milestone, such as birthdays and baby namings at FEST, contact Jill Persin at [email protected].

Adult Education Lecture Series Coming this fall we will continue our stimulating and provoking Adult Jewish Education lecture series. New to the program is the opportunity to take classes on weekday evenings as well as on Sunday mornings during Religious School. Courses are taught by in-house JRC experts as well as rabbis and professors from across Chicagoland. Topics covered will include, “Does Prayer Work,” “The Formation of the Middle East,” “Reconstructionsim 101,” “Jewish Meditation,” “Jewish Life Cycles,” and much more. Of course, our own Rabbi Rosen will offer his popular God Talk series, as well as courses on the Bible and even on the Golem of Prague! 5

High Holiday Committee Needs Your Help — Dianne Sperling, Marie Davidson, Co-chairs While Rabbi Brant is preparing his tough High Holiday questions for us and Cantor Howard is practicing his special melodies, the High Holiday Committee coordinates everything that needs to be done behind the scenes. Because we hold our High Holiday services off-site, we need to do more than many congregations. From special signage to helping our congregants find their way... moving in and out...coordinating Open Mike and finding interesting leaders for our Discussion Groups…to finding a schlepper for the Tashlich service at the lakefront, there’s room for lots of people to help, whether you want to spend a little time or a lot. Best of all, there are no committee meetings. For our upcoming Holidays we especially need: • An assistant to Head Usher, Lou Weiss: This is a great opportunity to meet and work with Lou and Joan Spigelman and get to know more congregants. The job includes calling for volunteers to usher during services (there is a list to work from) and supervising ushers during the first hour and a half of the five High Holiday Services. • Signage: A great job for two families to work together—especially with young teens. Job requirements: a knowledge of Word, ability to cut and paste posters, time prior and after services, and the ability to run like the wind (teens)! Word files are already prepared and most signs are printed. You’ll work with Dianne Sperling to create posters and understand the job. • Break The Fast Coordinator: A real mitzvah! This is a job-sharing opportunity for a family, a couple, or two or more congregants. It involves taking “reservations,” coordinating potluck dishes, and organizing a clean-up crew. To find out more, send email to: [email protected], or call Dianne Sperling (847.328.1068) or Marie Davidson (847.729.6358).

Member Profile: Shirley Gould, Super Senior — Vivian Mitchel On Thursday, May 26th Shirley joined 50 others being honored by community organizations at the 38th Annual Super Senior Day sponsored by the North Shore Senior Center in Northfield. Shirley represented JRC at the luncheon/award ceremony. Her guests for the day were Rabbi Brant Rosen and Ray Grossman. Rabbi Rosen briefly described Shirley for all to hear in these words: “Shirley is a long-time member of JRC in Evanston and is universally considered to be the ‘matriarchal’ figure in the congregational community. She is a mainstay at the Shabbat morning minyan, the weekly Torah study, and numerous adult educational programs. Her ‘’Open Mike” presentations on Yom Kippur—in which she reflects on the joys and challenges of growing older—have long been among the most eagerly anticipated events of JRC’s High Holiday season. Shirley’s hearty spirit, her willingness and love of Jewish

learning and community, and her friendship have truly been an inspiration to Shirley Gould, caught enjoying a JRC members young and old. Through her inspiring example, she has modeled humorous moment at JRC for so many on what it means to be part of a real community.” I’ve known Shirley since the late 1970’s when I hired her to speak at Oakton Community College about one of her recently published books. She was a big hit then, and she’s a big hit now. 6

Religious School — Terri Bernsohn, Director Reconstructionism rejects the notion of Jews being a chosen people. One of my family’s favorite Passover readings refers to us instead as “a choosing people.” I love this idea that we choose continually to live, learn and engage communally as Jews. As I’m writing this last newsletter of the school year, we are approaching the holiday of Shavuot, when we read the Book of Ruth. There are two aspects of Ruth’s story that are particularly relevant to our community school. After the women are widowed, Ruth follows her mother-in-law Naomi who is returning to her Israelite community. Although Naomi encourages Ruth to return to her This year we worked on being more mindful people, Ruth tells Naomi, “Wherever you go I will go, wherever you of using particular Jewish values lodge I will lodge; your people shall be my people and your God shall be my God.” At this moment, Ruth intentionally joins the Israelite to guide our relationships. people, and throughout the remainder of the story, she demonstrates chesed, or lovingkindness and devotion. This year we worked on being more mindful of using particular Jewish values to guide our relationships. (I was inspired by Keshet’s Seven Jewish Values document I wrote about earlier in the year.) All of the values, such as Shalom Bayit (peace in the home) and Kavod (respect), ultimately come back to the idea of chesed, making the individual commitment to treat others with lovingkindness. To enroll in our school, families need to join JRC. Although Ruth is often cited as the first Jew-by-choice, many of our members, even those born into Jewish homes, make the thoughtful and deliberate decision to join our community. It’s a big decision. Happily, we already have several new families joining us for next year, and there will be many families making this decision over the next few months. At the same time, I am aware and appreciative that even those of you who have been members for many years continue to choose to make your involvement in JRC a priority in your life. I like to think that we are teaching and demonstrating to our children that as Jews we are always a choosing people, choosing to commit to membership in the congregation, and choosing to make values-based decisions in how we organize our institution, how we treat one another individually, and how we take responsibility for Tikkun Olam, repairing the world.

Youth Group News In January, the board approved a proposal to hire a Youth Group Advisor, which Chantal Blaustein has been filling on an interim basis. Most recently she organized an improv evening for the youth group. In June they will be getting together again for a sushi and pizza-making extravaganza. More events are being planned, so stay tuned. 7

Early Childhood — Bonnie Silverman, Director JRC’s Early Childhood Center has earned accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), the nation’s leading organization of early childhood professionals. We’re proud to have earned the mark of quality from NAEYC and to be recognized for our commitment to reaching the highest professional standards. NAEYC accreditation lets families in our community know that children in our program are getting the best care and early learning experiences possible. To earn NAEYC accreditation, our preschool went through an extensive self-study process, measuring the program and its services against the ten NAEYC Early Childhood “Having earned NAEYC accreditation Program Standards and more than 400 related accreditation criteria. The program received accreditation after an on- is a sign that JRC is a leader in site visit by NAEYC assessors to ensure that the program a national effort to invest in high-quality meets each of the ten program standards. Every classroom early childhood education.” participated in collecting the data and developing strategies to address the criteria, including documenting and revising practices and policies throughout the program. NAEYC- accredited programs are also subject to unannounced visits during their accreditation, which lasts for five years. In the 25 years since NAEYC accreditation was established, it has become a widely recognized sign of high-quality early childhood education. More than 7,000 programs are currently accredited by NAEYC, approximately 8 percent of all preschools and other early childhood programs. We join many Evanston centers who have achieved this goal, and we are grateful to be part of a community that values early childhood education. “The NAEYC accreditation system raises the bar for child care centers and other early childhood programs,” said Jerlean E. Daniel, Ph.D, executive director of NAEYC. “Having earned NAEYC accreditation is a sign that JRC is a leader in a national effort to invest in high-quality early childhood education.” The NAEYC accreditation system was created to set professional standards for early childhood education, and to help families identify high-quality preschools, child care centers and other early education programs. Programs are accredited by NAEYC for a five-year period. I would like to thank all our teachers, who have worked toward this goal for many years. It is truly an honor for me to work with so many dedicated, caring and hard-working early childhood professionals who love their work and care so much about the families at JRC. Thank you to all the parents who have supported this achievement with their participation and cooperation. Thank you to the staff and clergy at JRC, who were always ready to give a hand during the process and to the JRC Board of Directors, for making this a priority, both in budget and mission.

For more information about NAEYC Accreditation, visit www.naeyc.org/academy. 8

Our children! (Clockwise) Kindergarteners making sukkahs, 4th graders visiting the tall ship Windy, Davida & Goliath performance, 1st graders at Purim 9 Kvell Korner Ellie Routtenberg is the featured artist in a show at Links Sweet Bean Cafe, 1141 Greenleaf, Wilmette, which To kvell (or shep naches) means to be proud of. This column is devoted to letting our runs from May 14 to July 14. community know about the wonderful things happening in the lives of JRC members. Mel and Boris Furman are kvelling quadruply: Noah Mazel Tov! A third great-grandchild was born on April recently appeared in the performance piece, “The palm 26 in northern California to Shirley Gould, bringing poises as a plant does, and slips into the evening of the her much joy. Her name is 7 lb. 14 Yehudit Chang, day,” which was staged several times in Chicago and oz., daughter of Miriam Gould and Walter Chang; Minneapolis. He begins this fall on a Master of Fine granddaughter of Arthur Gould and Carol Robinson. Arts in Painting at Illinois State. Ezra Furman and the Adrienne and Syd Lieberman have a new granddaughter, Harpoons released their third studio LP, Mysterious Power, Zella Ruth Weisz, born February 11, 2011. Zella joins in April and toured the U.S., Austria, Germany and brother Ezra and their busy parents Sarah Lieberman the UK April–June. They are playing at Summerfest in Weisz and and Sandy Weisz. Milwaukee July 9. Emma moves to Tuscaloosa in August JRC member Alan Goldberg received smicha (ordination) to begin a Master of Fine Arts in Poetry at the University as a Maggid from Rabbi J. Hershy Worch, Yeshiva Ateret of Alabama. And Jonah received a summer research Tzvi, on the 16th of Ram-Cheshvan, 5771: grant from Johns Hopkins University to work in the Steve Fox was named Illinois Masonic’s Doctor of the Year. David Foster Wallace archives at the University of Texas in Austin, examining the role of ethics in Wallace’s work, Callie Benson-Williams, daughter of Lesley Williams particularly the recently published Pale King. and Brian Benson, received the Justin Wynn Leadership Award, given every year to two 4th graders from each Max Brown, son of Carole Caplan, graduated with District 65 school. The award honors young people who honors from the University of Michigan with a degree have demonstrated outstanding leadership, citizenship in sociology and in the fall will begin working for the and sportsmanship and encourages them to become international consulting company Capgemini. involved in a lifetime of community service. Rachel and David Blechman, children of Joel Blechman Mazel Tov to Andy White, Artistic Director of the and Carol Hirsh Blechman will be working as staff at Lookingglass Theatre Company, which won the 2011 Camp JRF this summer. Rachel graduates from ETHS Tony Award for Best Regional Theatre. and will be heading to the University of Miami in August. David, a senior at U of Arizona, will be spending the Congratulations to JRC members and McCracken fall semester at the University of Nanjing, China on a Middle School Symphonic Band members Aaron and political science program. Natalie Niederman, Jennifer Goodfriend, Ben Barov, Matthew Harris-Ridker and Ari Bearman for their This update on the Nolan Family: Bessie finished her selection as Honor Band at the 2011 University of Illinois first year at the University of Miami on the President’s Superstate Concert Band Festival. Honor Roll, Benjamin completed his Junior year at Von Steuben High School, and Jack is busy preparing for his Ellen Cetera, daughter of Paul Cetera and Leslie Rosen, Bar Mitzvah in October. graduated from the University of Illinois with a degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering and will be Pomona College junior, Gabriel Friedman, son of Carol starting her new job—building robots—at Kiva Systems, and Rick Friedman, has been awarded $10,000 from the Inc. in Boston this summer. Donald A. Strauss Public Service Scholarship Foundation Eric Rosen, son of Andrea and Brad Rosen, competed to create a music mentoring program in the Pomona with more than a 1,000 players at the U.S. Chess Valley. Federation National Tournament in Nashville, TN to Ray Grossman was named the 2011 recipient of the earn the title of National K12 Champion. Annual Lincolnwood Human Relations Commission Niles North principal Dr. Ryan McTague said, “Eric is a Award for promoting respect and tolerance and for positive role model whose commitment and dedication helping others. He’ll be honored at the June 16 meeting to our school and local community serves as an example of the village trustees. to us all.” Dr. McTague proclaimed Friday, May 6 as Eric If you have any kvell-able information, email Bonnie Stone Stern Rosen Day at Niles North High School. at [email protected], fax: 847.328.2298, or call: 847.328.7678. Remember, keep on kvelling! 10

Library News — Eva Eisenstein, Librarian Suggestions for Some Serious Summer Reading This is about the time that we are inundated with lists Territories, went on an all- of suggestions for the summer, and usually the lists are expense-paid “birthright” heavy on fast-reading mysteries, spy novels, and general trip to Israel in an attempt popular fiction. I happen to think that summer is the to discover some grand perfect season to attack the more difficult books: non- truths at the heart of the fiction, poetry, biography, thoughtful and well-written Arab-Israeli conflict. This graphic fiction, especially since some of us may have more time memoir tells the touching and often funny story of her to devote to such literature. Here is a very short list of utter failure to do so.” From Publishers Weekly. such titles recently acquired by our library: This graphic novel is for anybody who asks thoughtful Democratizing Judaism by Jack Cohen questions about Israel. The seemingly simple illustration “Jack Cohen, Kaplan’s most knowledgeable disciple, style and beautiful watercolors belie the seriousness of goes beyond the basics, and in this new work gives us a this confounding topic. EE Donated by Charlene Gelber sense of Kaplan’s depth and uniqueness. He offers us the Two books of fiction highlighted in the spring newsletter full range of Kaplan’s thought while concentrating on should definitely be considered for summer reading: his theology, his Zionism and the similarities between To The End of the Land by David his system and that of the great mystic Abraham Isaac Grossman Kook.” Mel Scult, Professor Emeritus in Judaic Studies (The JRC Book Group will be at Brooklyn College. Donated by Martin Okun discussing this book at their A Thousand Darknesses: Lies And Truth In Holocaust Fiction summer meeting.) Donated by Terri by Ruth Franklin Ginsberg Bernsohn “Taking a fresh look at memoirs by Elie Wiesel and Foreign Bodies by Cynthia Ozick. Primo Levi, and examining novels by writers such Donated by Maxine & Chuck Lange as Piotr Rawicz, Jerzy Kosinski, W.G. Sebald, and Wolfgang Koeppen, Franklin makes a persuasive case for Also recently donated: literature as an equally vital vehicle for understanding A Field Guide To Visiting A Jewish Cemetery: the Holocaust (and for memoir as an equally ambiguous A Spiritual Journey to the Past, Present and Future by Joshua L. form). The result is a study of immense depth and range Segal. Donated by Naomi & Dan Feldman that offers a lucid view of an often cloudy field.” From The Wisdom Books: Job, Proverbs and Ecclesiastes: A Translation with the Oxford University Press description. Donated by Commentary by Robert Alter. Donated by Mel & Boris Harriet & Hank Conroe Furman Yehuda Halevi by Hillel Halkin When you need some relief from the heavy reading, “A wonderfully fresh biography consider the fledgling DVD collection in the library. Jan of the great medieval Jewish poet Wishinsky has kindly donated the following three titles and philosopher. Halkin has also (they are shelved with book fiction): Fiddler On The Roof, Left provided a potent reading of Halevi’s Luggage (Based on the powerful novel The Shovel and the Loom poems, a powerful contextual study by the Belgian Carl Friedman), and Inglourious Basterds of his times, and a provocative directed by Quentin Tarantino. interpretation of his legacy. Read a note: If you would like to recommend a title for this definitive work and you will the library’s collection, please contact Eva. And if you be deeply immersed in the world have any books from the library that you are no longer of a figure that Heinrich Heine reading, please return for the use of other congregants. described as ‘God-kissed.’” Edward Hirsch. Donated by Susan Cherry The Library is on the 2nd Floor, east side of the building. Librarian hours are Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays including the hours How To Understand Israel In 60 Days Or Less by Sarah Glidden when Religious School is in session. Otherwise the library is “Glidden, a progressive American Jew who is sharply open when the building is open. Eva Eisenstein can be reached at critical of Israeli policies vis-à-vis the Occupied [email protected] or 847.328.7678 x2255. 11

Naomi and Dan Feldman Tzedakah is a central mitzvah of Judaism, humanizing both the donor Condolences to Pam and the recipient. JRC has established a series of tzedakah funds in Baumgartner and her family on response to members’ interests, aiming to serve three functions: the death of her husband, Agass Baumgartner • To support the congregation. All are welcome to membership, to Kim and Brad Moldofsky worship, to our school—even those unable to pay full dues. Your In honor of their son, Isaac, contributions make this possible. becoming a Bar Mitzvah • To support important extra-budgetary activities. Cantor’s Discretionary Fund • Most importantly, to provide a convenient and meaningful way In memory of Cantor Friedland’s for JRC members and others to fulfill the traditional obligation of mother and our friend, Ruth tzedakah as we honor, commemorate, and express gratitude. Friedland Suzie and Gershon Berkson Judy and Howard Cohen Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund Alisa Cohen-Stein and Mark Rabbi Brant Rosen and Hallie Stein Rosen The Reverend Cotton Fite Naomi and Dan Feldman Cantor Howard Friedland and Ellen Alexander Sue Levine and Leon Fink Terry Parisoli Condolences to Cantor Howard Ellen and Jeff Gilbert Joshua Karsh, President, and Friedland and his family on Ruth Gilbert and Marshall Lobin Carolyn Shapiro the death of his mother, Ruth The Goldstein-Marshall Family Mazel Tov to our March, April, Friedland Michelle Ney and Brian Gratch and May B’nai Mitzvah and their Rebecca and Spencer Stern Kathy Greenberger and Steve families: Barry Ruderman, Samuel In honor of their daughter, Kai, Slaggert Zofkie, Maia Spertus-Melhus, receiving her Hebrew name Sheri Young and David Ari Bearman, Isaac Moldofsky, Greenwald Jacki and Shelly Kimel Janet and Brian Hoffman and Benjamin Barov, Ariel Hasak- In honor of Freddi Greenberg’s Lowy, Alexander Brooke Family special birthday David Kleiman Condolences to: Rosalie Murphy and Eric Selinger Beth Lange and Bill, Alex and Sheri Young and her family on In honor of their daughter, Eleanor Martin the death of her stepmother, Ethel Margaret, becoming a Bat Maxine and Chuck Lange Young Mitzvah Sheila Lapping Howard Friedland and his family Sue Levine Diane and Ben Melnick on the death of his mother, Ruth Nina Raskin Vivian Mitchel Friedland In memory of her husband, Bonnie and Michael Nolan Judith Childrey and her family Nathaniel Raskin Lisa Pildes and Michael Sehr on the death of her father, Sidney Sue and Steven Rasher Sue and Steve Rasher Ruth and Larry Rosen Warschausky With gratitude to Rabbi Rosen Audrey Eisenmann and her family Lynn and Mark Shapiro for the wedding of their son, The JRC Choir on the death of her stepfather, Phil, to Diane Abramowitz Herbert Rosenfeld Naomi Moderick Gwen Macsai and Paul Goren With gratitude for Cantor Michael Edwards and his family In memory of their brother-in- on the death of his mother, Nancy Friedland’s support after the law, Agass Baumgartner death of her son, Mark Segal Edwards Julie Dorfman and Jerry Herst Ruth Gideon and her family on Susan Cherry Condolences to Josh Mark and Condolences to Ruth Gideon and the death of her second mother, his family on the death of his Dorothy Gandell her family on the death of her father, Joseph Mark mother, Dorothy Gandell Josh Mark and his family on the Condolences to Ruth Gideon and death of his father, Joseph Mark Baila and Irv Miller her family on the death of her In memory of Irv’s mother, Riva Blechman and her family mother, Dorothy Gandell Gertrude Miller on the death of her aunt, Mollie Lesley Pearl Kruger Rosalie Murphy and Eric Selinger In honor of becoming a member In honor of their daughter, Eva Eisenstein and her family on of the Jewish people Margaret, becoming a Bat the death of her brother, Colin Mitzvah Eisenstein Leo Gideon and his family on the death of his wife, Ruth Gideon 12

Ruth Gilbert and Marshall Lobin Barbara and Jerry Israelite Art/Design Fund In memory of Ruth’s father, Alter In loving memory of Ruth The Niederman Family Lejzerowicz Friedland, mother of Howard Condolences to Howard Marlene Stern Friedland Friedland on the death of his In memory of her father, In loving memory of Sidney mother, Ruth Friedland Bernard Stern Warschausky, father of Judith Early Childhood Education Fund Childrey In memory of her brother, Ben Terri Ginsburg Bernsohn Zion Stern Janie and Barry Winkler In loving memory of Norma Kim and Brad Moldofsky In loving memory of Ruth Bernsohn, aunt of Terri In honor of their son, Isaac, Friedland, mother of Howard Ginsburg Bernsohn, on her becoming a Bar Mitzvah Friedland Yahrzeit General Fund Esther and Al Esbin Mary Jo and Steve Herseth In loving memory of Ruth Sarah Lee and Charles Orlove In honor of the baby naming for Friedland, mother of Howard Eli Alexander Gutterman, son of In loving memory of Nellie Friedland Orlove, mother of Charles, on Alison Gutterman her Yahrzeit Barbara and David Pinzur Micki Lasher In loving memory of Herbert Margot and Bruce Goldsmith In loving memory of Aleen Rosenfeld, stepfather of Audrey Redlich, mother of Anne Redlich In honor of the naming of Cleo Eisenmann Segall, granddaughter of Nancy Harvey Nixon and Ralph Segall Albert and Mildred Margules In loving memory of Lillian Condolences to Josh Mark on the Nixon, mother of Harvey Nixon, Anne Goldberg death of his father, Joseph Mark In loving memory of David on her Yahrzeit Goldberg, father of Anne Cheryl and Mark Kaplan Foundation Fund Goldberg, on his Yahrzeit In loving memory of Sidney Warschausky, father of Judith Jon Marshall and Laurie Goldstein Carolyn S. Levin Childrey With gratitude to Joel Gratch In loving memory of Sol Charles In loving memory of Ruth for tasteful assistance to the JRC Shaye, father of Carolyn Levin, Friedland, mother of Howard development committee on his Yahrzeit Friedland Larry Goldberg Ruth and Alan Goldberg Rosalie Murphy and Eric Selinger Mazel Tov to Betty Van Leuven In loving memory of Michael Lee In loving memory of Sidney on her birthday Spivak Warschausky, father of Judith Landscape Fund Sharon and Earl Lichtenstein Childrey Ruth Gilbert Deepest sympathies to the Byster Marcie Weiss In loving memory of Dewey family on the death of Gloria In loving memory of Sidney Gilbert, husband of Ruth Byster, mother of Michael Byster, Warschausky, father of Judith Gilbert, on his Yahrzeit grandmother of Joshua Byster Childrey Judy and Steve Smiley Rhoda and Richard Becker Julia Talbot and Robert Zofkie In honor of Vickie Korey’s 60th In honor of Shirley Gould In honor of Samantha McNelis birthday Rosalie Murphy and Eric Selinger for her help with Sam Zofkie’s Religious School Fund With thanks to Marc Chinitz, Bat Mitzvah Lila Katz Lori Lippitz, and Kayla Chinitz Vickie and Irv Korey for making Margaret (Selinger) In loving memory of Ethel In honor of Debbi Rosenberg for Young, mother of Sheri Young such a part of their lives in the her years of service to Na’amat past year Laurie Goldstein and Jon Marshall Condolences to Audrey Vickie and Irv Korey In honor of Steve Fox being Eisenmann on the death of her named Illinois Masonic’s Doctor In loving memory of Ruth stepfather, Herbert Rosenfeld Friedland, mother of Howard of the Year Friedland Condolences to Adrienne Robert Turner Eisenmann on the death of her Torah Restoration Fund Julie Dorfman and Jerry Herst stepfather, Herbert Rosenfeld In loving memory of Ruth Nina and Elliott Goldstein Friedland, mother of Howard Sheri Young and David Greenwald In loving memory of Blanche Friedland Edith and Kenneth Margules Goldstein, mother of Elliott In loving memory of Sidney Condolences to Josh Mark and Goldstein, on her Yahrzeit Warschausky, father of Judith his family on the death of his Childrey father, Joseph Mark 13

Sidney and Leota Hirsch Wendy Margolis Thank You to: Memorial Fund (Library) In loving memory of Beatrice Shabbat Oneg Hosts: Reese and Susan and Bill Siebers Gunther, mother of Wendy Joel Gratch, Mikel and Mike In loving memory of Philip Margolis, on her Yahrzeit Carter, Becky Mitchell and Pollay, father of Susan Siebers, In loving memory of Irving grandfather of Eli Spector Margolis, father-in-law of Wendy Jim Zeckhauser, Beth and Dick Mel and Boris Furman Margolis, on his Yahrzeit Ruderman, the REACH/PASS Mazel Tov to Jeff and Jan In loving memory of Aaron Task Force, Laurel and Bruce Berkson on becoming Gunther, father of Wendy Watson, Gwen Macsai and Paul grandparents Margolis, on his Yahrzeit Refuah Sheleymah to Lisa Pildes Goren, Karen and Bob Libman, For Passover Cece Lobin and Jay Schwartz, Condolences to Betty Van Leuven on the loss of her mother, Social Action HIV/AIDS Marty Okun, Carolyn Shapiro and Marion Deraedt Van Leuven, and Robin Drayer, Steve Siegel and Josh Karsh, Elizabeth and Michael to Naomi, Simon, and Rachel Family Shapiro, Susan Cherry, Carol and Condolences to Judith Childrey Goldberg on the loss of their Howard Ellegant, Julia Talbot grandmother on the death of her father, Sidney and Bob Zofkie, Jen and Adam Todah Rabah to Bryna Warschausky Cytrynbaum—a model retiree Social Action Kehillah Gooze, Rachel and Devin Gross, Charlene and Howard Gelber Robin Drayer, Steve Siegel and Cheryl and Craig Simon, Rebecca In loving memory of Mollie Family Hamlin and Robert Bearman, Kruger, aunt of Riva Blechman Condolences to Howard Joe Ellison and Martin Milligan, Terri Ginsberg Bernsohn Friedland on the death of his Ana and Chip Kaufman, Kim and mother, Ruth Friedland Condolences to Howard Brad Moldofsky, Melissa Mizel and Friedland on the death of his Betty Van Leuven and Larry Michael Edwards, Sara Polonsky mother, Ruth Friedland Goldberg and Kunal Pujara Condolences to Michael Edwards Refuah Shelaymah to Ruth Gideon on the death of his mother, Shabbat Minyan: Ruth Wenger Nancy Edwards and Jonathan Markowitz, Anne Condolences to Josh Mark on the Goldberg, Darlene Grossman, death of his father, Joseph Mark Becky and Dick Block, The Nolan Condolences to Judith Childrey Family, Vickie Korey, Debra on the death of her father, Sidney Warschausky Crestoni, Adrienne Lieberman, Social Action Food Fund Sally Brown-Winter and Jeff Rosalie Murphy and Eric Selinger Winter, Alan Goldberg, JRC’s 6th With thanks to Sara Polonsky, Grade Families, Carrie and Jeremy Kunal Pujara, and Shanti Polara Elsberg for their lovely desserts at the Oy Vey Café Welcome New Members! With thanks to Stan and Sara Beth and Michael Gladstein Cohn for making the Oy Emily and Benjamin Berk Vey Café such a perfect start to Margaret’s Bat Mitzvah celebration Susan Cherry In loving memory of Dale Cherry, husband of Susan, father of Alison and Erica Cherry on his Yahrzeit 14

Billy Kaplan presents A Shabbat Sweet (Continued from page 1) So Billy contacted Brant and Howard, and they agreed. One rehearsal later, Billy lovingly offered the prayers to the community to honor his daughter the night before her Bat Mitzvah. Billy kept writing melodies to more prayers from the Kabbalat Shabbat service. When he shared them with Brant and Howard a few months ago, they suggested he share it with the JRC community. This Kabbalat Shabbat service on June 3 at 7:00 is being called, “A Shabbat Sweet.” Billy will be backed by his ukulele, the Maxwell Street Klezmer Band, a trio of teens, including Hannah Kaplan and Emma Chanen, now known as “The Sweet Sisters,” and his wife, Jennifer McCray. Billy’s lively, soulful prayer melodies are destined to Experience this soaring, spiritual journey. While he reports being uncomfortable with the comparisons, those who have heard the melodies suggest that they are become JRC classics! reminiscent of Debbie Friedman and Shlomo Carlbach. Billy may have been known in the late 1980s by teens and folkies hanging out in Washington Square Park in New York City as Mr. Tambourine Man, but now he is known for catchy melodies, rich harmonies and unique arrangements. Dradle ‘Round the Tree, his first CD, is a wonderful collection of original holiday music for families who celebrate Hanukkah, Christmas, Hanukkah-Christmas or any winter celebration of light. The CD features Billy’s infectious music, lyrics, and singing with the harmonies of his 11-year-old daughter, Hannah. Billy also plays the baritone ukulele and other live and digital instruments on the recording. Billy has been involved in music since he was a teenager: he played Jesus in Godspell, sang in the Bradley University choir, wrote music for a very Off-Broadway show, and worked with the Chicago band, Word Bongo. He is currently the drummer in Heavy Shtetl, the JRC’s Klezmer house band. Billy has been playing his children’s music and adult contemporary music most recently at Starbucks, children’s birthday parties, and non-profit fundraisers. To learn more, hear samples of the music, and see music videos, go to www.BillyAndTheKidders.com. 15

Gesher Looks at Judaism through a Jewish Lens — Sam Frolichstein-Appel This year in Gesher, we spent the year learning about photography and how we can learn about Judaism through pictures. We made a list of eleven values—spirituality, wisdom, learning, passing of knowledge from generation to generation, tikkun olam, beauty, love, community, unity and freedom—and went to Millennium Park to take pictures of them. We got pictures of values, our city, and our crazy class. The whole year, we discussed what Judaism meant to us. And that’s what made this year unique. Every other year we studied Hebrew, the Torah, and commentary. Now that was all fine and good, but we never really got to talk about our perspective of Judaism. And that’s what this class allowed us to do. We did it through discussions in class and through photos, which are displayed in the case across from the office. Please stop and take a look. During class, we talked about Judaism, Jewish values, and some Ke$ha. We looked at photos taken by other photographers, took our own photos, viewed and critiqued them. We talked about different aspects of Judaism and photography techniques, like perspective, light, angle, and black and white or color. 16

Rabbinical Commentary (Continued from page 1) Bobby Franklin, who belongs to a local Christian Reconstructionist church, said he was “saddened” as he watched his “fellow Georgians pray to their god FEMA to save them.” This is the same Franklin who proposed a bill that would require that rape victims be described as accusers rather than as victims. I will confess that I was never a huge fan of the term “Reconstructionist” for ...[N]ow, it seems we have to our movement, even before I heard about Christian Reconstructionism. If you share our movement’s name are wondering about the history of our name, it is a reference to founder Rabbi ’s influential book, Judaism as a Civilization: Toward a Reconstruction of with fundamentalist American Jewish Life. Christians whose mission It’s not, needless to say, a term that rolls trippingly off the tongue—and now, it statement calls for Christian seems we have to share our movement’s name with fundamentalist Christians whose domination of the world. mission statement calls for Christian domination of the world. Oh well, I guess in the end, these appellations tend to take on a life of their own. Regardless of the name, I’m immensely proud to call myself a Jewish Reconstructionist. If you’d like a helpful description of our religious tenets, go to the JRC website by clicking here. One choice excerpt: Reconstructionists are Religious Humanists. Reconstructionists believe in the human authorship of all religious traditions, including their own, and they realize that no tradition has a monopoly on religious truth. Reconstructionists believe that all peoples are called to build a world of justice and compassion, and we welcome dialogue with persons of good will in all traditions. And to that let us say, Amen.

JRC STAFF JRC ESSENTIALS JRC Funeral Plan rabbi office hours Brant Rosen • x2223 Monday–Thursday • 9 am–5 pm The purpose of the JRC Funeral Plan is to simplify Friday • 9 am–1 pm cantor the process and reduce the cost and stress of Howard Friedland • x2232 phone making funeral arrangements when a loved one 847.328.7678 president dies. Joshua Karsh fax 847.328.2298 Administrator: Chicago Jewish Funerals, Ltd., executive director Sharon Díaz • x2224 website 195 North Buffalo Grove Road, Buffalo Grove, www.JRC-Evanston.org Illinois, 60089; 847.229.8822, or toll free asst. executive director 888.509.5011. Jill Persin • x2222 JRC NEWSLETTER early childhood director editor At your time of loss, call them at any hour of the Robyn Hurtig • x2226 Bonnie Silverman • x2227 day. Rabbi Rosen will be contacted immediately, or religious school director next issue’s deadline you may also call him directly. A detailed funeral Terri Bernsohn • x2225 August 15, 2011 guide is available from the JRC office. Membership & Program submissions coordinator Email articles to Robyn Hurtig Tom Samuels • x2229 at [email protected] administrative assistant Bonnie Stone Stern • x2220 Bookkeeper Mike Schuppe • x2221