Dear Central Great Lakes,

Have you ever left your home, got on the road, only to discover that you left without your phone? You’re too far away to turn around and retrieve it, so you just concede that somehow, some way, you will journey through the day without it.  It’s not a warm and fuzzy feeling that washes over too many of us caught in this situation. It’s more like a quiet unrest, verging on panic.

Did you ever wonder why we’re so dependent on the phone? Why it creates a dramatic void when we find ourselves without it? A proposed answer is well beyond its sleek exterior and its promise of warp-like browsing speeds. It’s well beyond the fact that it’s now our security, our lifeline, our pathfinder, blood pressure monitor, step counter, music provider, Google carrier, Facebook updater, text tool, email carrier, menu planner, motivational coach, and exercise instructor… you can complete this list with a rendition of Dr. Seuss’- Oh the wonderful things a phone can do!

The reality is that our smart phone is a tool that helps fulfill two needs – it captures time so we can create memories and it connects us to community.

In the perpetual motion of our lives, it’s time, that elusive concept that exists in moments connected to moments, that moves us ever-forward. How often do we find ourselves wanting to seize a moment and enjoy it just a bit longer? Like so many of us who have family scattered all over the world, loved ones and dear friends who live great distances away, our lives are a dance of exuberant hello’s and then all too quickly, a slow walk of goodbyes.  

Although this holding on and letting go, as Rabbi Naomi Levy recognizes, is a mysterious and challenging paradox of existence -- living fully within these parameters of constant motion and change is a good thing. To be able to capture a brief interlude in this panorama is golden.

So, through this prism, our smart phone is invaluable. We can take pictures -- lots of pictures: selfies, time with family and friends, holidays, even that perfect challah! We’re capturing time! We’re creating memories! 

Most importantly, in remembering, we find the strength, courage, and joy to embrace the possibilities of each day before us.

Community is also important. To be Jewish is to embrace community – to connect, to be a part of something greater than ourselves. Smart phone technology provides a strong first step. Text, email, Twitter, Tik-Tok and simple calls bring us together instantly. We also need to take the second step that provides those deeper bonds. To be mindful of the importance of community and then to be present in our community either virtually or in-person is that next step.

Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, z” l, reminds us that as Jews, it is as a community that we come before G-d. As Jewish Women committed to serving our Jewish Community, the work we do through our Affiliate Sisterhood, through CGLR, and WL to preserve Judaism is sacred work.

Our work in our Jewish Community helps us go forward each day with strength and courage. Our work inspires us. We know that through the work of our hands and the spirit with which we fulfill this work, we’re making a difference today and for the generations that will follow us.

This July 16-19, our International Convention, Sisters Celebrating Together, provides a wonderful opportunity to create memories and to connect with the amazing community of women in Affiliate Sisterhoods throughout Women's League. Come lend your voice and spirit either in person or through zoom. Come experience the powerful force of women committed to shared values and inspired by a deep commitment to service.

Come discover how we can continue to make a difference and find the strength and courage to make our lives a blessing.

I’m so looking forward to seeing you in Schaumburg. Don’t forget your smart phone!

Shabbat Shalom,

Pam

Pam Schlosberg

CGLR President

cglrpresident21@wlcj.org

847.433.7546 (h); 847.691.8991 (c)

P.S. Looking forward to seeing you in July!

Have you registered for Convention yet?

Want to place a virtual Journal Ad?

Have you supported the Convention Social Action Project yet?

Convention 2023 Registration Deadlines

Convention Registration Deadline: June 28, 2023

No in-person registrations will be accepted after June 28.Virtual registration will continue up to the start of Convention.

Convention Cancellations: Requests for cancellation must be emailed to Razel Kessler at rkessler@wlcj.org by June 28, 2023.

All cancellations will be assessed a $200 fee.

Hotel Reservations: Room rates of $139/night are guaranteed until June 16, 2023. Hotel reservations should be made directly with the hotel by going to this link: https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/group-booking/CHIRW/G-WLCJ

A Message from the

WL Medical Task Force

When uploading your COVID vaccine records, please be sure that it includes all doses you have received and that your name is clearly visible on the records.  

Thank you.

If you need assistance, please contact Razel Kessler, Women's League Office Administrator, 

rkessler@wlcj.org, 405-870-1260.

Convention 2023 Creative

Judaic Arts Workshop

Sunday, July 16, 1:30 – 3:00 pm

Monday, July 17, 9:00 – 10:30 pm

Post-Convention 2023 Creative Judaic Arts Workshop (Zoom Session)

Presented by Jody Glass, Women’s League Creative Judaic Arts Chair

Thursday, August 24, 7pm CT / 8pm ET

The Hamsa dates back to ancient Mesopotamia. The word "hamsa" comes from the Hebrew word "hamesh," which means five. It is believed to protect against the evil eye and all negative energies.

You will have fun creating your string art Hamsa with a coordinating border.

Project easy to complete in person or virtually.

Kit includes all supplies & instructions.

This project will not leave you in knots!

Order deadline is June 15.

Materials Cost: $12.00

Shipping/Freight Cost: $7.00

Questions? Contact Jody Glass, WL Creative Judaic Arts Co-Chair

glass.jody@gmail.com

CGLR Convention Kippah to Wear Proudly!

This special Convention Kippah is made by our very own Wanda Pitzele, an award winning Master Bead artist. The stunning beads beautifully capture the blue of our CGLR logo. Only 90 will be made because the beads are no longer being made and the

color will remain irreplaceable!

These truly are one-of-a kind - just like CGLR! And,

they're truly a treasure - just like all of our CGLR Sisters!

Priority will be given to in-person CGLR delegates.

Our cost is $30 each, a 25% discount off the retail cost for Wanda's beaded head coverings.

Your purchase will help to support CGLR's Scholarship Fund.

To order: Email Wanda at: wanda.pitzele@icloud.com.

Payment: Either send your check (made payable to "CGLR") to Wanda Pitzele at 2885 Parkwalk Drive, Cincinnati OH 45239 or

"Zelle" your payment to her at 630-289-3349.

Kippot will be distributed at the convention; however, if you want

yours in advance, it can be shipped to you for an additional $5.00.

Note: Preference will be given to CGLR members first.

Non-CGLR members can purchase this Kippah @ $40.00.

These Kippot are Wanda's own design. She is a cherished artist, supplying many of WLCJ Affiliates' Judaica Shops for decades with her unique design and colors!

Welcome to all of the CGLR delegates for WLCJ Convention 2023!

We are looking forward to meeting all of you in Schaumburg! We will try and help with any questions or concerns as time goes on, with emails and blurbs in the Wave. Of course, you are welcome to personally reach out to either of us with any questions you may have.

Some items that should be considered now.

1. If you are in need of finding a roommate, please let us know ASAP. We have had a few requests, and we want to try and make sure anyone who needs a roomie can get one.

2. If you want one of the beautiful Kippot that Wanda has created for our region, please reserve one by emailing her. They will be distributed during registration at convention.

3. Just an FYI. We will be having a fabulous region party! Please bring $10.00 with you to help with costs for food, drink and supplies.

4. Last, but not least, please let us know your travel information, as soon as possible. We will try to coordinate transportation from the airports to the hotel. If you are driving, parking is free at the hotel.

That is all for this week. If you need to contact one of us, feel free to call, text or send a personal email. We are here to help in anyway we can!

Wishing you all a wonderful Shabbat Shalom!

Gilda Schwartz. 513-314-5291. Gilda49@aol.com

Wanda Pitzele. 630-289-3349. Wanda.pitzele@icloud.com

The Ukraine War Continues...

The Enormous Suffering Continues-- 

Masorti Olami's Support Continues --

Our CGLR Advocacy and Support Continues!

We can extend our sense of renewed hope and

send our light forward.

In the U.S., donate via The Schechter Institutes, Inc. www.schechter.edu/donate or

via Masorti Olami: Support Our Work (masortiolami.org)

Reminder: We only have four weeks until the end of our current Torah Fund Campaign. You can make donations online until June 30, 2023, at midnight for it to be counted toward the Chazak v’Ematz campaign. If you are writing a check it needs to be at the Torah Fund office by June 30th for it to be counted towards this year’s campaign, so make sure all your checks are in the mail at least one week before June 30^th. So, what can you still be doing for the Chazak v’Ematz Campaign:

1.    Make a plus $80 donation to help celebrate Torah Fund’s 80^th anniversary. Those who do make the plus $80 donation will be recognized during the Torah Fund luncheon at Women’s League Convention in July in Chicago.

2.   Send a Torah Fund e-card in honor or memory of someone. To do this click on this link: https://torahfundecards.jtsa.edu.

3.   Become a member of the Legacy Society by making a commitment via your will or making Torah Fund a beneficiary to your IRA or Life insurance plan. The goal is to have 80 legacy commitments by convention. For more information click on this link: https://www.jtsa.edu./hidden-page/torah-fund-legacy-society/.

4.   Give to the Creating New Spaces Campaign. This will help fund two important projects; a “Women’s League Study Space” in the new undergraduate residence hall at The Jewish Theological Seminary, and a special course of training for rabbinical students at the Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies, entitled “Women’s League Institute on Gender Bias and Harassment.” Our goal is to raise $200,000 that will be split equally between the two projects.

Thanks to everyone who has already given to Torah Fund this year. I hope many will consider the above-mentioned options.



Be Strong and Courageous,

Shabbat Shalom,



Rebecca Goldwasser

CGLR VP of Torah Fund

rebeccatorahfund@gmail.com

New Digital Torah Fund eCards Available NOW:

Send a greeting with ecards and support Torah Fund! Make your gift more meaningful by using our ecards for every occasion!

Torah Fund supports programs and scholarships for the five Conservatives/Masorti global institutes

of higher education.

Yom Huledet Sameach

(Happy Birthday) to

Marjorie Maxwell, CGLR Financial Secretary on June 13

Mazel Tov to

Fran Hildebrandt,

on her new position as WLCJ Kehilla Co-Chair

on the WLCJ 2003-2006 Board

Mazel Tov and Yasher Koach to

Our Jewels in the Crown Award Winners!

Adath Israel Congregation, Cincinnati, OH

Beth El Sisterhood, Pittsburgh, PA

Congregation Beth Shalom, Northbrook, IL

Congregation Beth Shalom, Oak Park, MI

Congregation Beth Judea, Long Grove, IL

Congregation Ohave Sholom Sisterhood, Rockford, IL

Ezra-Habonim, The Niles Township Jewish Congregation, Skokie, IL

North Suburban Synagogue Beth El, Highland Park,

Sisterhood of Congregation Shaarey Zedek, Southfield, MI

Mi Sheberach for

Susan Steinberg, Southern Region President

Zelda Jacobs, past president of KIPOT Region

Ellen Kaner Bresnick, WLCJ Education Co-Chair



We wish them a Refuah Shlemah - a complete and speedy recovery

Baruch Dayan Ha Emet - Gary Block

With sadness we advise you of the passing of Gary Block z"l, son of past WLCJ Vice President and past President of North Atlantic Region, Karen Block. Karen is currently a WLCJ Board of Directors member, Social Action Co-Chair, and CGLR Consultant.

Funeral services have been held, and Shiva is completed..

Messages of condolence may be sent to Karen at 11 Bacon Rd., Framingham, MA 01701; or kblock@wlcj.org.

We extend our condolences to Karen and Allen Block and their family and pray that they will be comforted among the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem.

If you would like to make a donation to Women’s League in Gary's memory, please click here. If you would like to make a donation to Torah Fund in his memory, please click here. If you're in the U.S. and wish to send a Torah Fund ecard, click here.

Baruch Dayan Ha Emet - Gary Rosenthal, Judaic Artist

Excerpts from the letter written to WLCJ from Reuben Rosenthal --

It is with a heavy heart, but a peaceful spirit, that we inform you that renowned Judaic Artist, Gary Rosenthal, z'l, passed away May 26, from pancreatic cancer; peacefully in his home, surrounded by his loving wife Marta Goldsmith, daughter Sophie, and son, Reuben. He was 69 years old.

Reuben writes that it will be his distinct privilege to carry on his father’s legacy, with the immeasurable help of Hamilton Whitney and his mother, at the Gary Rosenthal Collection. "Tomorrow," he noted, "we look forward to many years of art and celebration, joy and growth, with all of you who meant so much to my father. Today, we look back and reflect on a life of kindness and compassion, of responsibility and beauty, and honor a legacy of unabashed love."

Funeral services were held on Sunday, May 28. A celebration of life service will be held--in person and live streamed--at a later date.

Shiva has been observed. . 

Contributions in Gary's memory may be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, and our family encourages you to honor Gary’s memory in the spirit of a life lived to the fullest, by making art and contributing beauty to the world around you with the ones you love. There can be no greater occupation of a life well lived.

He will be missed, but never, ever, forgotten.

Whether you’re celebrating the joy of a simcha or remembering a loved one who passed away, please consider donating to our CGLR Scholarship Fund today. Your gift provides support for those women in our region who may need financial assistance to participate in WLCJ Convention, Sisters Celebrating Together or

in Leadership Workshops. .

We will send a lovely card to the recipient acknowledging your gift. 

 Donations in any amount are welcome.

Simply click the “DONATE” button below. Send the occasion, your name and address, plus the name and address of the recipient to Pam at cglrpresident21@wlcj.org.

You also may send a check

(payable to Women's League for Conservative Judaism) to:

Pam Schlosberg

144 Whistler Road

Highland Park, IL 60035

Your caring will help keep our future strong - and we thank you!

Pocket Size = $11.00

Planner Size = $26.00

Contact the office for quantities over 10. 

405-870-1260

Calendar Diaries are available for pre-orders.

All orders will ship before the end of June.

Mail-In Form

All those who are attending Convention will receive their Calendar Diaries at Convention.

Celebration breakfast to follow

RSVP on the Convention Website at WLCJ.ORG

On July 17, 30 women will be called to the Torah during the morning services on Monday of Convention to celebrate their B’not Mitzvah. They will lead the service, and many will read Torah for the first time. These women first came together almost three years ago, responding to an announcement in Women’s League Week that we would be starting an adult Bat Mitzvah class. They came for many reasons—Some are Jews by choice and are just starting their Jewish Journey, some women had a Bat Mitzvah at 12 or 13 in congregations that were not egalitarian. They may have had their Bat Mitzvah on a Friday night or were not allowed up on the bimah, and some women joined the class for Torah Lishmah—learning for the sake of learning. For the past two and a half years, we have met every month, on Thursday nights, for ninety minutes to study, mostly with amazing rabbis in the Conservative movement, sometimes with our amazing Women’s League rabbis or members. We would like to thank all our teachers for helping these women reach this special day. 

The women prepared for each class by reading required texts or handouts, thinking about questions provided by the teachers in advance and, recently, writing Divrei Tefillah on prayers from the morning service. The classes were thought-provoking, and sparked discussion and many questions. After all, ours is a religion based on asking questions.  One of the requirements for the class was that all our students know the aleph-bet and be able to read basic prayerbook Hebrew. We started a series of Hebrew classes and many women participated. When you hear them lead their prayers on Zoom or from the bimah, or you hear them read Torah, you would never know that some of them did not know any Hebrew when they started this class. We would like to acknowledge the 14 volunteer Hebrew teachers that shared their knowledge and love of the language over the past three years, and we would like to thank Rabbi Cella for teaching trope to the class. 

Like other groups within Women’s League, our Bat Mitzvah students have created a Zoom community, and many will be meeting in person at Convention for the first time. They will truly be Sisters Celebrating Together, and we hope you will celebrate them too. Join us on Monday morning, place an ad in the virtual journal to celebrate their accomplishments, and make sure to say Mazal Tov and Yishar Kochech to:

Lilian Gradofsky - BQLI

Judith Karlin - BQLI

Lisa Bloom - CGL

Sandra Carleton - CGL

Esther Hellman - CGL

Marlene Ostrow - CGL

Eileen Barberi - FLR

Anne Schimberg - FLR

Carol Simon - FLR

Karen Winer - FLR

Jill Tomar - FLR & CGL

Nancy Goldberg - FLR & MAR

Deborah Malafsky - ICR

Laurie Atlas Silverblatt - ICR

Corinne Hammerschlag - INR

Ruth Shapiro - INR

Marion Tully - INR

Sandy Berenbaum - MAR

Denise Brand - MAR

Faye Laveson - MAR

Illene Rubin - MAR

Madelon Sheff - MAR

Sheila Gersh - Metro North

Arlene Schwartz - NAR

Dana Sirkin - NXNW

Shelliyah Iyomahan - Seaboard

Elissa Kon - Seaboard

Edith Magruder - Seaboard

Jerilynn Payne - Seaboard

Arlene Fisher - Southern

If you would like to see yourself on this list in three years, whatever your reason for joining, watch for the announcement about the next Bat Mitzvah class which will start this Fall. 

See you in Schaumburg!

Julia Loeb

WLCJ Education Co-Chair

jloeb@wlcj.org

Ellen Kaner Bresnick

WLCJ Education Co-Chair

ebresnick@wlcj.org

Parashat Nasso – June 3, 2023

Parashat Nasso discusses the second census of the Levites. We read about the gifts that were given for the final dedication of the Tabernacle, the Mishkan, the moveable temple used by the Children of Israel while they journeyed through the desert. An overall theme of this week’s Torah Reading is leadership and what gifts are given by the leaders.

We can all be leaders. What leadership skills do you bring to your Sisterhood Affiliate? Have you shared with others in your Sisterhood Affiliate all that you can offer, for we all have something to give? Look around your Sisterhood Affiliate, how can you shape the leadership skills and gifts of others? Let us appreciate what we have and always be grateful. How do you show gratitude for the gifts of leadership in your community?

Thank you to all the amazing sisters who comprise Women’s League for Conservative Judaism! B’Yachad, together, we are strong! Chazak v’Ematz - Be Strong and Courageous! 

Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday

12:00 Noon ET; 11:00 AM CT; 9:00 AM PT; 10:00 AM MT

Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/630830287

Meeting ID: 630 830 287

Password: 875936



Want to sing, teach, help with technology, and more during Daily Psalm Study, and Kaddish? Sign up below.Sign

Pre-Convention Women’s League Reads Book Discussion

Golem Girl: A Memoir by Riva Lehrer

Monday, June 5, 7:00pm CT / 8:00pm ET on Zoom facilitated by Rachel Kamin



The vividly told, full-color memoir of an artist born with disabilities who searches for freedom and connection in a society afraid of strange bodies. A longtime faculty member of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Riva Lehrer is currently an instructor in medical humanities at Northwestern University and will join us in-person at the WL Convention in Schaumburg on July 18. Read & discuss Golem Girl before the Convention and bring your copy to Schaumburg to get it signed by the author. 

Project Stock the Shelves   

Your contribution will help reduce food insecurity

among our neighbors!

If you’ve been shopping recently, you can’t help but notice how much the cost of food has gone up. Please consider contributing a Kosher item to your pantry collection this month.



Debbie Bettan

Social Justice Project Chair

dbettan@wlcj.org



Karen Block

Social Justice Co-Chair

kblock@wlcj.org

Ardis Wexler

Social Justice Co-Chair

judgeardis@aol.com

Learn More

Your contribution will help reduce food insecurity among our neighbors

Key to Calendar:

CGLR Events

WLCJ Events

Affiliate Events

Monday, June 5 - Pre Convention WL Reads Program @ 7 PM CT/ 8 PM ET

Thursday, June 16 - Masorti Women's Study Day @12:30 AM - 6:30 AM CT/ 1:30 AM - 7:30 AM ET

Convention Special Events

Monday, July 17 - B'not Mitzvah @ 7:30 AM CT

Monday, July 17 - Torah Fund Luncheon @ 12:30 PM CT

Laurie B. Davis

Communication VP/ The WAVE Editor