Kol Shalom Sunday Forum: “The Crying Tree.” Naseem Rakha, Kol Shalom member and award-winning journalist, will discuss her debut novel, “The Crying Tree,” about the murder of a child, the death penalty, forgiveness and redemption. Reviews call it “compelling,” “absorbing,” “powerful,” “hauntingly beautiful and sad.” Talk about forgiveness and the ability to change your course just in time for Rosh Hashanah. Free, all are welcome. 9:45 a.m.–noon at the MJCC. For more information, call 503-459-4210, email info@kolshalom.org or visit www.kolshalom.org.