EVELYN RUBENSTEIN JCC HOUSTON
Connect Magazine
The Ann and Stephen Kaufman
Jewish B ook & Arts Fair 43 Years of Authors, Music, Theatre & Films
NOVEMBER 1-15, 2015 Underwritten by The Eleanor and Frank Freed Foundation
erjcchouston.org September 2015
The Ann and Stephen Kaufman Jewish Book & Arts Fair CULINARY
FILM
Katja Goldman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Above and Beyond . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Barbara Mazur & Wendy Waxman . . . . 18
Raise the Roof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 My Italian Secret . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
FAMILY PROGRAMMING & PARENTING
Flory’s Flame . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Gett: The Trial of Viviane Amsalem . . . 18
Sing Out Loud Concert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
The Kindergarten Teacher . . . . . . . . . . 19
Carla Naumburg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Shoshana Banana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
GET CULTURED: FOR 20s & 30s
Karen Fisman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Bruce Eric Kaplan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Joanne Rocklin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Zoey Hess . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
ISRAEL
Funkey Monkeys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Tuvia Tenenbom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Michael Bar-Zohar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
FICTION, LITERATURE & POETRY
David Biespiel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
HOUSTON AUTHORS
Joshua Cohen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Local Literati . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Jami Attenberg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Assaf Gavron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
MEMOIR
Joseph Skibell & Victoria Aarons . . . . 12
Wrestling Jerusalem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Baladino . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
NON-FICTION
Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks . . . . . . . . . . 3 Joe Klein . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Lisa Leff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Jonathan Eig . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Christopher Rothko . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Arts, Culture & Education . . . . . . . . . . 24 Bobbi and Vic Samuels Center for Jewish Living & Learning . . . . . . . . 25 Tributes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Children's Scholarship Ball . . . . . . . . . 27
David Gregory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Community Read: Elyssa Friedland . . 14
Ron Wolfson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Kenneth Wishnia, Reed Farrel Coleman & Tasha Kaminsky . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Purchase a Series Pass
MUSIC, THEATRE & ART
Deutser Art Gallery Opening with Photographer Carole Glauber . . . . 5
Steve Katz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Save on events and receive guaranteed seating for selected events!
Buy a Book & Arts Fair Series Pass and receive guaranteed reserved seating for Opening Night with Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks, David Gregory, Closing Night with Steve Katz, PLUS Admission to all Book & Arts Fair programs. David Biespiel Master Class, Book Lovers Lunch, Katja Goldman Culinary demos and The Kindergarten Teacher excluded.
$80 Member | $120 Public | FREE for Students with Student ID $10 Series Pass Discount for Seniors 60+ Discounts for Individual Senior Tickets Available at Time of Purchase
ONLINE: erjcchouston.org | BY PHONE: 713.551.7255 IN PERSON: Visit the Information Desk or the Box Office 30 minutes prior to the start of a program. Advance ticket purchase recommended. See page 20 for individual ticket prices. Unless otherwise specified, programs take place at the Evelyn Rubenstein JCC Milton Levit Family Campus, Joe Weingarten Building 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX 77096 2
BOOKSTORE HOURS Sunday–Thursday 10:00 AM–10:00 PM* Friday 10:00 AM–2:00 PM Saturday 7:30 PM–10:00 PM *7:00 PM closing on November 11
SUNDAY, November 1
Photo by Blake Ezra
OPENING NIGHT
7:30 PM | Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks Not In God’s Name: Confronting Religious Violence In his powerful and timely new book, Not in God’s Name, Rabbi Sacks tackles the phenomenon of religious extremism. If religion is perceived to be part of the problem, he argues, then it must also form part of the solution. To do this, according to Rabbi Sacks, you first have to understand the concept of “altruistic evil,” of violence committed in the name of God. It is only by understanding our collective past that we will be able to build a better future, one where the three Abrahamic monotheisms – Judaism, Christianity, and Islam – exist side-byside in peace. “Rabbi Sacks is one of today’s most interesting thinkers, writers and speakers…this latest book will contribute to the ferocious debates around religion and violence in the world today.” – The Spectator Joining Rabbi Sacks for an on-stage interview is Rice University’s Matthias Henze, the Isla Carroll and Perry E. Turner Professor of Hebrew Bible and Early Judaism and Director of the Program in Jewish Studies. FREE EVENT
Evelyn Rubenstein JCC Patrons of the Arts: Guaranteed Premier Reserved Seats Series Pass Holders: Guaranteed Reserved Seats FREE: Limited Seating | First Come, First Served 3
What's New This Year The Ann and Stephen Kaufman Jewish Book & Arts Fair has enriched lives for the last 43 years. As our past audiences know, we have brought renowned, as well as new and lesser known authors. We have also all enjoyed provocative theatre, film, music, art, and exciting presentations for children that reflect diverse Jewish cultural arenas. You might ask: “Is anything different this year?” Under the creative leadership of this year’s Chairwoman, Elli Samuels, and Co-Chair Eve Lapin, several new strategies were brought to the fore. “We have an amazing lineup that will appeal to tastes of all kinds,” said Elli. “In fact early on we decided to pay heed to just that-how could we reach even more people and make our programs even more engaging?” Toward that end, a couple of impactful initiatives were focus groups and a “New Approaches” team. One, to help us better understand what people are craving and the other to help us brainstorm about innovative programming. You will see three of the most popular ideas in action this year:
one of our younger Program Committee members. His Book of Numbers was touted by The New York Times as “more impressive than all but a few novels published so far this decade.” Another is Yale grad Elyssa Friedland, whose book, Love and Miss Communication, is our Community Read this year. Author panels. Story writer Joseph Skibell will not only present on his newest collection, My Father’s Guitar and Other Imaginary Things, but also engage in conversation with Victoria Aarons, co-editor of The New Diaspora: The Changing Landscape of American Jewish Fiction. Crime fiction writers Moe Prager (Reed Farrel Coleman), Tasha Kaminsky, and Kenneth Wishnia will come together to discuss their work from Jewish Noir, a collection of new contemporary tales of crime and other dark deeds. Hands-on culinary class. Katja Goldman, author of The Community Table, will engage with participants and cook a number of specialty items from her book. Star power illuminates this year’s Fair with Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks (Opening Night), American television host David Gregory, and Blood, Sweat and Tears founder Steve Katz (Closing Night). Five films will be screened, including the Houston Jewish Film Festival Audience Choice winner, Above and Beyond. The one-man show, Wrestling Jerusalem explores the complexities of the Middle East through the portrayal of 17 different characters. The Tel Aviv based ensemble, Baladino, will entertain us with a contemporary
Top notch fiction programs in the evening. One of these writers is newcomer Joshua Cohen, initially suggested by
take on Sephardic and world music. During Oliver Lapin Family Day, not only will five children’s authors connect with the kids, but the Funkey Monkeys are back in concert!
Join on your terms Join and get member rates on Book Fair events and more for an entire year! Visit erjcchouston.org/membership for more information. 4
See page 20 for prices.
SUNDAY, November 1 FILM
2:00 PM | Above and Beyond
Directed by Roberta Grossman | USA, 2014, 89 min English and Hebrew with English subtitles, Documentary A return of the 2015 Houston Jewish Film Festival Audience Choice Winner, this colorful documentary is about the Jewish American World War II pilots who in 1948 answered the call for help from their Jewish brethren fighting the Israel War of Independence. Produced by Nancy Spielberg, the film brings together interviews with the band of brothers who helped turn the tide of the war when they embarked on their journeys of sacrifice and Jewish pride.
4:00 PM | David Biespiel A Long High Whistle For over ten years, poet and critic David Biespiel, who grew up in Meyerland, published a brief essay on poetry every month in The Oregonian in what became the longest-running newspaper column on poetry in the United States. Biespiel’s book collects these essays and provides readers with insights into what inspires poets, how poems are read and written, and how poetry situates itself in American life. “One of the best books about reading poetry you will ever find.” – Library Journal
12:00 PM | Master Class David Biespiel will conduct a three-hour Master Class for poets who want to focus on writing, revising and blending imagination with experiences and feelings. This advanced class is limited to 15 participants who must submit three poems not to exceed four pages to mhassid@erjcchouston.org to apply. Writing submitted will be the focus of discussion for the class. Advanced Purchase required by Oct. 23. Master class not included in Series or Patrons Pass.
6:00 PM | Carole Glauber Israel: In Light and Shadow Photography Exhibit and Opening Reception Carole Glauber’s photographs of Israel reveal places allegorical and literal, extraordinary and ordinary. Discerning this deep resonance, her perceptive focus illuminates the scene itself—a Roman aqueduct, the Kotel at night, a bulletin board. These radiant images visually resonate with the observed and hidden, the animate and inanimate, as they peer inside the soulful complexities of the land called Israel. 5
MONDAY, November 2
10:00 AM | Sing Out Loud Early Childhood Concert Come one, come all! Tom Wilbeck of Tom’s Fun Band does not like to sing alone! Your childhood center is closed for the day? No problem! Bring your positive energy to the J for a lively musical experience followed by arts and crafts. Bring any canned food (or pet food) item for Oliver Lapin Family Day to receive $2 off tickets for this concert.
7:30 PM | Joe Klein Charlie Mike: A True Story of War and Finding the Way Home In Charlie Mike, award-winning Time and The New Yorker journalist and author Joe Klein tells the dramatic story of two decorated Middle East combat veterans, Eric Greitens and Jake Wood, who use their military discipline and values to help others. Whether in Haiti after the 2011 earthquake, in NYC after Hurricane Sandy, or helping fellow traumatized veterans, these men continue their mission by performing tasks for others. “An inspiring story of life – and death…” – Robert M. Gates, US Secretary of Defense Patron Sponsors: Sylvia and Aubrey Farb
Auditory Equipment Available for Hearing Impaired If you need assistance in hearing clearly, equipment is available to enhance your ability to hear the program. Just ask at the Box Office when you arrive and it will be provided for you with courtesy and sensitivity. Closed Captioning Provided for Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks and David Gregory events 6
See page 20 for prices.
TUESDAY, November 3
7:30 PM | Joshua Cohen Book of Numbers
Marilyn Hassid Emerging Author Called both “the Great Internet Novel” and “the Great American Novel,” Joshua Cohen’s Book of Numbers explores life in the digital age. Cohen reflects, “To read about Numbers’ doomed generation was to read about my own—a generation born in the 1980s enslaved to the page, but by the millennium freed by the screens, to search—or, in alternate terms, to wander.” The New York Times wrote “…a wheeling meditation on the wired life, on…being human in the age of binary code...Cohen, all of thirty-four, emerges as a major American writer.” Photo by Beowulf Sheehan
Patrons Sponsors: Betsy and Ed Schreiber
WEDNESDAY, November 4 12:00 PM | Book Lovers Lunch Jami Attenberg Saint Mazie
Photo by Michael Sharkey
Boisterous, bawdy, and big-hearted Mazie Phillips Gordon was a depression-era movie theater owner in NY during the Depression. In this diary format, fictionalized account of her life, Jami Attenberg creates a lively oral history of an unconventional, loose-living woman who knew and helped the bums of New York City. “Attenberg is a nimble and inventive storyteller with a particular knack for getting at the heart of outsized characters.” – Washington Post “Fresh and witty.” – The Wall Street Journal Advance Purchase Required by Oct. 30 Not Included in Series or Patrons Pass
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WEDNESDAY, November 4 7:30 PM | David Gregory How’s Your Faith: An Unlikely Spiritual Journey Join former NBC newsman and Meet the Press moderator David Gregory as he probes various religious traditions to better understand his own faith and answer life’s most important questions: What do we believe? Who do we want to be? Raised by a Catholic mother and a Jewish father, Gregory began his search for meaning as an adult and studied both Orthodox Judaism and Christianity to come to his own conclusions. "In eloquent but everyday language, David Gregory introduces us to his ever-deepening faith. A spiritual journey that is honest, humble, and elevating." – Rabbi David Wolpe, Why Faith Matters Photo by Marissa Rauch Photography
Underwritten by Suzanne, Jennifer, and Judy Levin Patron Reception underwritten by Patron Sponsors: Eve and Bobby Lapin Lena and Marc Malacoff Karol and Daniel Musher Esther and Gary Polland Mitzi Shure and Jerry Wische
THURSDAY, November 5 7:30 PM | Carla Naumburg
8:00 PM | Tuvia Tenenbom
Parenting in the Present Moment: How to Stay Focused on What Really Matters
Catch the Jew!
Ready, set, breathe. Enjoy a glass of wine as you listen to Carla Naumburg, clinical social worker, writer, and parent. Back by popular demand, Naumburg aims to remind parents that mindful parenting is about paying attention to what is going on with your children and yourself, without judging, freaking out, or thinking everyone should be doing something differently. Naumburg will also discuss raising mindful children, the topic of her forthcoming book, ready, set, breathe: Practicing Mindfulness with your Children for Fewer Meltdowns and a More Peaceful Family. Patron Sponsors: Bobbi and Vic Samuels 8
See page 20 for prices.
ALTERNATE LOCATION Temple Sinai | 13875 Brimhurst Drive Israel’s best-selling English book, Catch the Jew!, recounts the adventures of journalist, dramatist, and founder of Jewish Theater of NY Tuvia Photo by Jan Sulzer Tenenbom as he wanders in various disguises through Israel and the Palestinian territories to interview Haredim, Knesset members, Israeli media, right and left wing Israelis, Arab leaders, Bedouins, Druze, taxi drivers, rabbis, and waiters. Tenenbom’s chutzpah and ability to speak English, German, Hebrew, and Arabic allows him rare access. Ultimately, he shares his feelings and uncertainties about the possibilities for Israel’s future. Patron Sponsors: Deisi and Max Blankfeld Robin and Bennett Greenspan
THURSDAY, November 5
Aaron Davidman in Wrestling Jerusalem
Wrestling Jerusalem: A Play Thursday, November 5 | 7:30 PM Saturday, November 7 | 8:00 PM Former director of the Traveling Jewish Theater, Aaron Davidman’s remarkable solo performance of Wrestling Jerusalem is one man’s journey to understand the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Giving voice to 17 different characters that live in Jerusalem, Davidman fiercely insists that peace is still possible. These personal stories grapple with the complexity of identity, history, and social justice. “To understand the Middle East,” says author and performer Aaron Davidman, “one has to be able to hold a simultaneity of truths.” Talk backs follow each performance.
Photo by: Khambrel Marshall
Patron Sponsors: Maida and Paul Asofsky
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SUNDAY, November 8
Oliver Lapin Family Day
9:00 AM–12:00 PM Fall into
Reading at the J!
9:00 AM–12:00 PM | Mitzvah Projects
9:30 AM–10:00 AM | Shoshana Banana
We can make a difference!
Family Ties
Bring any canned food (or canned pet food) item to the Mitzvah Project room anytime between 9:00 AM–Noon and help pack Thanksgiving bags for Evelyn Rubenstein JCC Houston Meals on Wheels clients and their pets. We will also create Thanksgiving cards to cheer up children who will be spending their holiday at MD Anderson or Texas Children’s Hospital.
A Jewish girl in New York explores the lives of family members living around the world through the neckties they send to her father. No matter what language they speak daily, on Shabbat they all say the same blessings in Hebrew, the universal language of Judaism.
Ages 2-6
Ages 5–8
9:30 AM–10:15 AM PJ Library Event Featuring The Funkey Monkeys and Joanne Rocklin the author of the PJ Library book I Say Shehechiyanu Ages 2-6
Children will explore the things that make them thankful and want to say “shehechiyanu” and then dance and sing with the Funkey Monkeys. 10
See page 20 for prices.
9:30 AM–10:00 AM 10:15 AM–10:45 AM | Karen Fisman Nonna’s Hanukkah Surprise Ages 5–8
Rachel loves visiting her Italian grandmother, even though Nonna celebrates Christmas and Rachel and her parents celebrate Hanukkah. When Rachel’s special hanukkiah goes missing, her non-Jewish Nonna saves the day. A heart-warming story of family and how love can bridge any differences. Lovely pastel illustrations in this book will capture the attention of young children.
10:15 AM–10:45 AM | Joanne Rocklin I Say Shehechiyanu Ages 4-6
Jews say “shehechiyanu,” expressing thanks, in all seasons and for many reasons – in new classrooms on the first day of school, at the first winter snow, the birth of a new sibling, or the first flowers of spring. This lovely picture book reminds us of all the goodness and joy in our lives that we can be thankful for.
10:30 AM–11:00 AM | Zoey Hess The Birthday of an Angel Ages 5–8
A sixth grader at the Emery/Weiner School, Zoey Hess shows readers how to treasure the memories of their loved ones and connect with those who have died. Demonstrating how grief can be transformed into joy, this book, written after the death of Zoey’s beloved grandfather “Papa”, Morton J. Adels M.D., conveys a message of hope and love.
11:15 AM–12:00 PM The Funkey Monkeys Ages 5–8 They’re back! A musical and comedy experience for children of all ages, audiences love the silly and soulful songs and creative presentations of this musical group created by Joshua Sitron, composer for Nickelodeon’s Dora the Explorer. Singing in English and Hebrew, the talented Monkeys delight their audiences. “Truly innovative: hilarious for adults and delirious for kids,” – Amy Friedman, Noggin
Underwritten by
Kids Nite Out
Saturday, November 7 | 7:00 PM AGES 5–10
Family Havdallah followed by music, books and activities for the kids featuring Nonna’s Hanukkah Surprise and The Mitten String.
Register online for Kids Nite Out at erjcchouston.org/kidsniteout.
Oliver Lapin Family Day is endowed in loving memory of Oliver Lapin by his family. Patron Sponsors: Susan and Jack Lapin The Funkey Monkeys Concert is underwritten by Braun Enterprises and supported by the Goldye M. and Samuel W. Spain Children’s Performing Arts Fund and PJ Library of Houston. All events take place at the Evelyn Rubenstein JCC. Family events are FREE and open to the public with the exception of the 11:15 AM Funkey Monkeys concert. For concert tickets visit erjcchouston.org/bookfair or call 713.551.7255.
SUNDAY, November 8 FILM
2:00 PM | Raise the Roof Shirley and Bill Morgan Family Holocaust Memorial Program
Directed by Yari Wolinsky & Cary Wolinsky | USA, 2014, 84 min English and Polish with English subtitles, Documentary Raise the Roof, a feature documentary by Yari and Cary Wolinsky, follows Rick and Laura Brown, sculptors and teachers, as they assemble a team of students and craftspeople to reconstruct one of Poland’s most magnificent lost synagogues: the Gwozdziec. The interior of the synagogue’s roof, installed at the new POLIN Museum of the Polish Jews in Warsaw, is a brilliant interplay of symbolic animals, flowers, and medallions, as well as Hebrew liturgical texts.
4:00 PM | Lisa Leff The Archive Thief Was Szajkowski a thief? In the aftermath of the Holocaust, Jewish historian Zosa Szajkowski gathered tens of thousands of documents from Nazi buildings in Berlin, public archives, and private synagogues in France and moved them, illicitly, to New York. Associate Professor of History at American University, Lisa Leff reconstructs this story and provides a perceptive portrait of an unusual villain and hero. “The Archive Thief is more than just a fine work of scholarship; it is also a page-turner.” – Aaron Lansky, Director of the Yiddish Book Center Patron Sponsors: Maxine and Steven Goodman Joyce Z. Greenberg
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See page 20 for prices.
6:00 PM | Assaf Gavron The Hilltop In this novel about life in a West Bank settlement, acclaimed Israeli novelist Assaf Gavron brilliantly skewers the complex, often absurd reality of life in Israel, the West Bank settlers, and the nation’s relationship to the U.S. Gavron is also chief writer of the computer game Peacemaker, captain of Israel’s national writers’ and poets’ soccer team, and a singer and songwriter. "It is no exaggeration to say that Assaf Gavron is the most exciting, inventive, and thought-provoking Israeli novelist of our generation.” – Reza Aslan
7:30 PM | Joseph Skibell & Victoria Aarons My Father’s Guitar & Other Imaginary Things The New Diaspora: The Changing Landscape of American Jewish Fiction English and Literature Professor at Trinity University, Victoria Aarons discusses the assembling of her book, The New Diaspora—co-edited with Photo by Avinoam Patt—with awardLaura Noel winning writer Joseph Skibell, a professor at Emory University and one of the contributors to the short fiction collection. Skibell’s collection of stories addresses small moments in life like calls from telemarketers, a father’s offer of a guitar, and a father’s control over his daughter’s sex life. Aarons’ book celebrates the continuing vitality and fresh visions of contemporary Jewish writing in which Skibell is firmly planted.
MONDAY, November 9 6:00 PM | Local Literati Meet our hometown writers and learn about their new works firsthand followed by a reception and book signing in the Bookstore. Join us to celebrate Houston authors Lynn Abrams, Dr. Milton Boniuk, David Brenner, Christy Esmahan, Toby Haberkorn, Judy Hirsh, Ali Katz, Bob Kaufman, David Kaufman, Earl Littman, Dr. Mannie Magid, Karen Pepkin, Alan Rodenstein, Lauri Sack and Leonard Zwelling. As of print deadline
6:00 PM | Jonathan Eig The Birth of the Pill: How Four Crusaders Reinvented Sex and Launched a Revolution In Collaboration with Rice University’s Center for the Study of Women, Gender, and Sexuality ALTERNATE LOCATION
Rice University | 6100 Main Street | Herring Hall, Room 100 A lively story of the genesis of “the pill,” Jonathan Eig’s narrative revolves around four characters: fiery feminist Margaret Sanger; the beautiful and wealthy Katharine McCormick; the visionary scientist Gregory Pincus; and the telegenic Catholic doctor John Rock. Eig is a former reporter at The Wall Street Journal and author of three other books. The Birth of the Pill was named Best Books of 2014 by The Washington Post, Chicago Tribune, Slate and St. Louis Post-Dispatch. “A well-paced, page-turning popular history featuring a lively, character-driven blend of scientific discovery and gender politics.” –Kirkus Patron Sponsors: Sherry and Gerald Merfish Anna Steinberger
7:30 PM | Michael Bar-Zohar No Mission Is Impossible: The Death-Defying Missions of the Israeli Special Forces One of Israel’s foremost experts on espionage and a Fair favorite, Michael Bar-Zohar was an advisor to General Moshe Dayan, a former member of the Knesset, and envoy to the Council of Europe. His book, co-authored with Nissim Mishal, is an episodic treatment of the greatest missions of the Israeli Special Forces, starting with the rescue at Entebbe. Also spotlighted are the lives of many of Israel’s heroes: Moshe Dayan, Ariel Sharon, the brothers Netanyahu, and Ehud Barak, as well as the tough decisions of Israel’s Defense Ministers. Photo by Gil Bar-Zohar
Patron Sponsors: Deborah Kaplan Louise Kershman Wendy and Steven Lerman Susan and David Morris
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TUESDAY, November 10 7:30 PM | Community Read Elyssa Friedland
Love and Miss Communication Donna Frankoff Memorial Lecture
Elyssa Friedland’s debut novel is a modern love story about a woman who has had enough of e-mails, Facebook, and online dating. She decides to abandon her smartphone, and that’s when she discovers a fresh start for real conversations and living in the moment. A graduate of Yale and Columbia Law School, Friedland has written for several publications. “Friedland’s Love and Miss Communication challenges our mind-set with a thought-provoking what if.” – USAToday.com, Happy Ever After Blog Whether you are in a book club, part of an organization or a fellow book lover, make this year’s Community Read your choice this fall! Books on sale now! Purchase your book at the J and receive FREE entry to Elyssa Friedland’s program.
WEDNESDAY, November 11
FILM
5:00 PM | My Italian Secret
Directed by Oren Jacoby | USA, 2014, 92 min English and Italian with English subtitles, Documentary Gino Bartali is a sports legend who with other courageous Italians carried out ingenious schemes to rescue Jews, partisans, and refugees from Nazi-occupied Italy. This film recounts the story of Bartali and the secret network he worked with; he stands in for the stories of thousands of Italians who risked their lives to save others threatened by the Nazis. Bartali never sought recognition, and few of those he helped knew his name or the role he played in their rescue.
Underwritten by The Maurice Amado Foundation
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See page 20 for prices.
THURSDAY, November 12 12:00 PM | Melton Lunch & Learn Ron Wolfson The Best Boy in the United States of America: A Memoir of Blessings and Kisses ALTERNATE LOCATION Merfish Teen Center | 9000 S. Rice Blvd
Dr. Ron Wolfson
author of The Seven Questions You’re Asked in Heaven
Filled with stories of growing up in a close family, navigating adolescence, and learning never to underestimate his mother, this memoir provides powerful lessons of a life of joy, laughter, meaning and purpose. Ron Wolfson is a visionary educator, author, and Professor of Education at American University. “A warm, loving, and wise collection of true stories from one of the most inspiring Jewish educators of our time.” – Rabbi Rick Jacobs, President, Union for Reform Judaism Optional lunch at 11:45 AM | Reservations required by Nov. 10 to Nomi Barancik 713.729.3200 ext. 3288.
7:30 PM | Kenneth Wishnia, Reed Farrel Coleman & Tasha Kaminsky Jewish Noir: Contemporary Tales of Crime and Other Dark Deeds Jewish Noir is a unique collection of new stories edited by Kenneth Wishnia and including numerous award-winning literary and genre authors including Reed Farrel Coleman and Tasha Kaminsky. The Photo by Photo by Adam Martin Alfred Hernandez stories include many “teachable moments” about the history of prejudice and issues of assimilation and ethnic identity. Kaminsky, a short story writer and essayist, is Director of Youth Engagement at a Conservative Synagogue, Wishnia is a novelist and mystery writer whose short stories have appeared in a variety of publications, and Coleman, a three-time Edgar nominee, was designated “noir poet laureate” in The Huffington Post. Patron Sponsors: Vicky and Michael Richker
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THURSDAY, November 12
GET CULTURED: THE J’S ARTS & CULTURE EVENTS FOR PEOPLE IN THEIR 20s AND 30s
8:00 PM | Inside the Author’s Studio Bruce Eric Kaplan I was a Child Exclusive Event for Ages 21 to Thirty-Something 7:00 PM | Reception in the Bookstore
The New Yorker cartoonist Bruce Eric Kaplan, also known as BEK, is one of the most celebrated cartoonists in America. A screenwriter and producer, Kaplan has worked on Seinfeld, Six Feet Under, and currently is a writer and executive producer for HBO’s Girls. This book, the story of his childhood, details the small moments of growing up, and are accompanied by cartoons, which although simple, are filled with irony and dark humor. “Kaplan manages to capture all that is beautiful, hilarious and painful about growing up human.” – Lena Dunham Reservations required by Nov. 10 iwasachild.brownpapertickets.com | GetCulturedHTown on Facebook
FRIDAY, November 13 FILM
1:00 PM | Flory’s Flame
Directed by Curt Fissel | USA, 2014, 58 min English and Spanish with English subtitles, Documentary Ninety-year old Flory Jagoda, a National Heritage Fellow, has recorded, composed, and performed Sephardic music from Bosnia throughout her life. The film is a onehour documentary about her life and music that interlaces Flory’s personal narrative with selections from her moving September 2013 Celebration Concert at the US Library of Congress where she was joined by 25 other musicians. “You just fall in love with Flory and the most amazing music…” – Entertainment Executive As a special bonus, members of Baladino will perform at the screening. Lunch and a Movie for Adults 60+ | Shabbat Lunch at Noon Prices include film and lunch | See page 20 for prices. RSVP by Nov. 9 to Esther Bethke | 713.595.8186
Underwritten by The Maurice Amado Foundation Supported by the Rosita and Albert Gaon Sephardic Heritage Program Endowment Fund Patron Sponsors: Gloria and Buzzy Bluestone
SATURDAY, November 14
8:00 PM | Baladino
Maurice Amado Foundation Music Residency and Concert Mediterranean folk band Baladino offers fresh, yet authentic interpretations of Sephardic and Ladino melodies. With stunning vocals, unexpected instruments, and a pitch-perfect sense of arrangement, the group melds tunes from Egyptian, Armenian, Mediterranean-Gypsy, and Ladino influences into a versatile, sonically vibrant whole that emphasizes the multiplicity embedded in Israel’s culture. Baladino was conceived by multi-wind instrumentalist Yonnie Dor and string player Thomas Moked. Enhancing the band’s musical identity is singer Yael Badash who brought with her an important collection of Ladino songs belonging to her ancestors, Daniel Sapir (double bass), and Yshai Afterman (percussionist).
Underwritten by The Maurice Amado Foundation Patron Sponsors: Judy and Ken Arfa Elena and Joel Dinkin
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SUNDAY, November 15 11:00 AM | Christopher Rothko Mark Rothko: From the Inside Out Christopher Rothko, the younger of Mark Rothko’s two children and the Chair of the Board of the Rothko Chapel, offers a unique perspective Photo by Randy Ahart on the worldrenowned artist. Synthesizing rigorous critique with personal anecdotes, Christopher presents eighteen essays that look closely at the paintings and explore the ways in which they foster a profound connection between viewer and artist through form, color, and scale. The Rothko Chapel paintings receive extended treatment in the book. Patron Sponsors: Paula and Irving Pozmantier Bunny and Perry Radoff
FILM
1:00 PM | Gett: The Trial of Viviane Amsalem
Directed by Ronit Elkabetz & Shlomi Elkabetz France/Germany/Israel, 2014, 116 min Arabic, French, Hebrew with English subtitles, Drama Trapped in a loveless marriage, Viviane Amsalem has been applying for a divorce for three years but her religiously devout husband constantly refuses. In Israel, only Orthodox rabbis can legalize a union or its dissolution, which is only possible with the husband’s consent. Winner of the Israeli Film Academy Ophir Award for Best Picture, film critics call this movie ”Gripping cinema from start to finish… assured, streamlined, and bold.” “Provocative.” “Brilliant.” “Riveting.” “Mesmerizing .”
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See page 20 for prices.
1:00 PM & 5:00 PM Hands-On Culinary Demonstration Katja Goldman The Community Table: Recipes & Stories from the Jewish Community Center in Manhattan & Beyond ALTERNATE LOCATION Central Market | 3815 Westheimer Three chefs from the JCC Manhattan worked together to create a cookbook of classic Jewish recipes as well as an inspiring collection of contemporary dishes with farm-to-table emphasis and international flavors. They include stories from JCC’s across the U.S., including Houston, in their discussions of the relationships between commmunity and food. Participants will cook Black Bean Cakes with Tomato Salsa, Lemon-Thyme Zucchini Spaghettini, and Chocolate Crumb Babka paired with two wine tastings. Advance Purchase Required by Nov. 12 Not Included in Series or Patrons Pass
4:00 PM | Barbara Mazur & Wendy Waxman The Vilna Vegetarian Cookbook: Garden-Fresh Recipes Rediscovered and Adapted for Today's Kitchen In 1938, Fania Lewando, proprietor of a vegetarian restaurant in Vilna, Lithuania, published a Yiddish vegetarian cookbook. The book was lost until a copy was miraculously rediscovered in a London antiquities shop. Incredibly appropriate for our trend towards farm to table cooking, Barbara Mazur and Wendy Waxman talk about their discovery of this cookbook. “The book is lively…one comes to learn about not just the dishes but also about Lewando herself.” – Tablet Magzine Patron Sponsor: Leah Stolar
SUNDAY, November 15 CLOSING NIGHT
7:30 PM | Author Talk with Performance Steve Katz Blood, Sweat, and My Rock ‘n’ Roll Years: Is Steve Katz a Rock Star? Steve Katz has three Grammies, three Downbeat Reader’s Poll Awards, three gold records, one platinum record, and one quadruple platinum record, and has sold close to 29 million records. He was part of the Monterey Pop Festival with the legendary Blues Project and Woodstock with Blood Sweat and Tears. In addition to his own experiences with the famous of the 60s and 70s, he hung out with the greats of music and entertainment, including Al Kooper, Janis Joplin, Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell, Elizabeth Taylor, etc. “I love love love Steve Katz’s new book –a dizzying, delicious, head-spinning, heart-wrenching tale of the Sixties and what even those of us who were there might have missed – stories of the band he was part of…It is a great ride….” – Judy Collins
Underwritten by CHUBB
CHUBB GROUP OF INSURANCE COMPANIES
Patron Sponsors: Elli and Tom Samuels Lisa Seymour and Joe Epstein Barbara Winthrop and Jay Steinfeld
FILM
The Kindergarten Teacher Tuesday, November 17 | 7:00 PM Presented in collaboration with Houston Cinema Arts Society
Directed by Nadav Lapid | Israel, 2014, 119 min | Hebrew with English subtitles, Drama ALTERNATE LOCATION Sundance Cinemas | 510 Texas Avenue After Nira discovers that her five-year-old student, Yoav, has an extraordinary talent for language and poetry, she becomes at first enchanted, and then ultimately consumed and obsessed with cultivating the boy's gift. Following his critically acclaimed debut Policemen, director Nadav Lapid demonstrates the aesthetic vision of a true auteur, combining a verite approach with a thrilling cinematic narrative that brings into sharp focus the dangers of both mediocrity and passion. Photo by Kino Lorber Films
Not Included in Series or Patrons Pass
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SCHEDULE-AT-A-GLANCE GENRE
TIME
PROGRAM
PRICE
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1 $30; Includes 4:00 PM Poetry Reading
Fiction, Literature & Poetry
12:00 PM
David Biespiel: Master Class °
Film
2:00 PM
Above and Beyond
$10m | $15p
Fiction, Literature & Poetry
4:00 PM
David Biespiel: A Long High Whistle
$12m | $18p
Art
6:00 PM
Meet the Artist Opening Reception Israel: In Light and Shadow: A Photography Exhibit by Carole Glauber
FREE
Non-Fiction
7:30 PM
OPENING NIGHT Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks: Not In God’s Name: Confronting Religious Violence
FREE
Family Programming & Parenting
10:00 AM
Sing Out Loud
$5
Non-Fiction
7:30 PM
Joe Klein: Charlie Mike: A True Story of War and Finding the Way Home
$12m | $18p
7:30 PM
Joshua Cohen: Book of Numbers
$12m | $18p
$30 (Includes Lunch and a Book)
Advance Purchase Required
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3 Fiction, Literature & Poetry
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4 Fiction, Literature & Poetry
12:00 PM
BOOK LOVERS LUNCH Jami Attenberg: Saint Mazie °
Memoir
7:30 PM
David Gregory: How’s Your Faith: An Unlikely Spiritual Journey
$12m | $18p
Theatre
7:30 PM
Wrestling Jerusalem
$20m | $30p
Family Programming & Parenting
7:30 PM
Carla Naumburg: Parenting in the Present Moment: How to Stay Focused on What Really Matters
$12m | $18p
Israel
8:00 PM
Tuvia Tenenbom: Catch the Jew! *
$12m | $18p
8:00 PM
Wrestling Jerusalem
$20m | $30p
Family Programming & Parenting
9:00 AM– 12:00 PM
Oliver Lapin Family Day
FREE
Family Programming & Parenting
11:15 AM
The Funkey Monkeys
Individual: $8m | $12p Discounts for Families 5+
Film
2:00 PM
Raise the Roof
$10m | $15p
Non-Fiction
4:00 PM
Lisa Leff: The Archive Thief
$12m | $18p
Fiction, Literature & Poetry
6:00 PM
Assaf Gavron: The Hilltop
$12m | $18p
Advance Purchase Required
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7 Theatre SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 8
20
m – Member
p – Public
SCHEDULE-AT-A-GLANCE Due to circumstances beyond our control, programs are subject to change.
GENRE
TIME
Fiction, Literature & Poetry
7:30 PM
PROGRAM Joseph Skibell: My Father’s Guitar & Other Imaginary Things
PRICE
Victoria Aarons: The New Diaspora: The Changing Landscape of American Jewish Fiction
$12m | $18p
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 9 Houston Authors
6:00 PM
Local Literati
FREE
Non-Fiction
6:00 PM
Jonathan Eig: The Birth of the Pill: How Four Crusaders Reinvented Sex and Launched a Revolution *
FREE
Israel
7:30 PM
Michael Bar-Zohar: No Mission Is Impossible: The Death-Defying Missions of the Israeli Special Forces
$12m | $18p
7:30 PM
COMMUNITY READ Elyssa Friedland: Love and Miss Communication
$12m | $18p
My Italian Secret
$5
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10 Fiction, Literature & Poetry
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11 Film
5:00 PM
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12 Memoir
12:00 PM
MELTON LUNCH & LEARN Ron Wolfson: The Best Boy in the United States of America: A Memoir of Blessings and Kisses *
$12m | $18p Optional Lunch $15
Fiction, Literature & Poetry
7:30 PM
Kenneth Wishnia, Reed Farrel Coleman and Tasha Kaminsky: Jewish Noir: Contemporary Tales of Crime and Other Dark Deeds
$12m | $18p
Get Cultured: For 20s and 30s
8:00 PM
EXCLUSIVELY FOR AGES 21-THIRTY SOMETHING Bruce Eric Kaplan: I was a Child
FREE (Includes Book)
1:00 PM
Flory’s Flame
$10m | $15p Lunch and Film for 60+: $8m | $12p
8:00 PM
Baladino
$20m | $30p
Non-Fiction
11:00 AM
Christopher Rothko: Mark Rothko: From the Inside Out
$12m | $18p
Film
1:00 PM
Gett: The Trial of Viviane Amsalem
$10m | $15p
Culinary
1:00 PM & 5:00 PM
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 13 Film
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14 Music SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15
HANDS-ON CULINARY DEMONSTRATION Katja Goldman: The Community Table: Recipes & Stories from the Jewish Community Center in Manhattan & Beyond * °
$50
Advance Purchase Required
Culinary
4:00 PM
Barbara Mazur & Wendy Waxman: The Vilna Vegetarian Cookbook: Garden-Fresh Recipes Rediscovered and Adapted for Today's Kitchen
$12m | $18p
Memoir
7:30 PM
CLOSING NIGHT Steve Katz: Blood, Sweat, and My Rock ‘n’ Roll Years: Is Steve Katz a Rockstar?
$12m | $18p
7:00 PM
The Kindergarten Teacher * °
$12 | $10 Students/Seniors
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17 Film
° Not included in Series or Patrons Pass
* ALTERNATE LOCATION Event takes place at an alternate location. Please see full listing for address.
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THANKS & RECOGNITION 2015 ANN AND STEPHEN KAUFMAN JEWISH BOOK & ARTS FAIR STEERING COMMITTEE CHAIR Elli Samuels BOOKSTORE SET UP/STRIKE Peter Gingiss Phyllis Gingiss BOOKSTORE VOLUNTEER MANAGERS Esther Chess Linda Chess Carol Emery Ellen Gaber Ann Glazier Sandy Gomel Robin Greenspan Louise Kershman Beulah Maltz Claire Noll Sheila Sack Carol Sternberg Beverly Sufian
CO-CHAIR Eve Lapin
BROCHURE Bobbi Samuels
JEWISH LIVING & LEARNING Joe Pryzant
THEATRE Maida Asofsky
COMMUNITY READ Robyn Shkolnick
LOCAL LITERATI Gerald Blumenthal Aaron Howard
VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR Lori Actor Rhoda Goldberg
MUSIC Adrianne Lavis
WEST HOUSTON PROGRAM Diane Statham
FILM John Dreyfus GET CULTURED Morgan Jankovic HOSPITALITY Lena Malacoff Diana Margolin Cookie Portnoy Michael Richker Vicky Richker
OLIVER LAPIN FAMILY DAY Erin Johnson Sallye Wolf PROGRAM COMMITTEE CHAIRS Ken Arfa Nada Chandler
EVELYN RUBENSTEIN JCC PRESIDENT Debbie Kaplan
PROGRAM COORDINATOR Amy Rahmani
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Joel Dinkin
ARTS & CULTURE ASSISTANT Jasmine Ross
BOBBI AND VIC SAMUELS CJLL DIRECTOR Rabbi Jill Levy
BOOKSTORE MANAGER Barbara Lindenberg
BOBBI AND VIC SAMUELS CJLL ASSISTANT DIRECTOR Rabbi Samantha Safran
THEATRE TECHNICIANS Jerry Lynch Lee Snyder
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ASSISTANT EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Marilyn Hassid
DANCE DIRECTOR Maxine Silberstein
BOBBI AND VIC SAMUELS CJLL PROGRAM COORDINATOR Nomi Barancik
THANKS & RECOGNITION FUNDERS AND SUPPORTERS Underwritten by the Eleanor and Frank Freed Foundation Supported by the Evelyn Rubenstein JCC Patrons of the Arts
Official Hotel of the ERJCC
CHUBB
CHUBB GROUP OF INSURANCE COMPANIES
MEDIA SPONSOR
Solid version for use on colored backgrounds
IN KIND
COMMUNITY PARTNERS AIPAC - American Israel Public Affairs Committee
Hebrew Speakers Professional Organization
Anti-Defamation League (ADL)
Holocaust Museum Houston
Business and Professional Women’s Breakfast Club
Houston Chapter of Hadassah
B & P Breakfast Club Connections
Houston Congregation for Reform Judaism
Congregation Beth Israel
Jewish Family Service
Congregation Beth Israel Miriam Browning Jewish Learning Center
Jewish Federation of Greater Houston
Congregation Beth Israel Sisterhood
Jewish Feminist Reading Group National Council of Jewish Women Greater Houston Section
Congregation Brith Shalom Sisterhood Congregation Emanu El - Houston Sisterhood Congregation Or Ami Consulate General of Israel to the Southwest
Temple Sinai United Orthodox Synagogues of Houston West Houston Lodge of B'nai B'rith *As of print deadline
HOURS DURING BOOK & ARTS FAIR Mon-Thurs: 9:00 AM–7:30 PM Friday: 9:00 AM–2:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM–7:30 PM
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ARTS, CULTURE & EDUCATION Theatre
Deutser Art Gallery
Drinks, Desserts, and Duets December 9–20, 2015 Cabaret Theatre at the J is back with an unplugged evening of great music, drinks and desserts conceived by and featuring Laura Yosowitz. This performance features great duets exploring musical genres through the decades, spanning from jazz, rock, pop, to musical theatre favorites.
Music
Casale Monferatto by Louis Davidson
Keyboard Conversations® with Jeffrey Siegel In these charming programs, Jeffrey Siegel speaks briefly and informally before performing each work in its entirety, making the music more accessible and the listening experience more meaningful.
The Miracle of Mozart Sunday, October 4, 2015 | 4:00 PM Enjoy the infinite variety of the musical speech of this much loved composer.
Underwritten by Gloria and Joe Pryzant and Lila Rauch in memory of Gerald Rauch
Classics Go Pop! Sunday, February 21, 2016 | 4:00 PM Hear some of the most famous, beloved music ever written, familiar to concert goers and non-concerts goers alike.
Underwritten by The Barbara and Mark Paull Families
Jewish Roots, Latin Groove II Sunday, October 11, 2015 | 4:00 PM Written by Richard Lavenda for classical guitarist Marc Garvin, Ladino/Latino: Three Songs for Two Guitars weaves together traditional melodies and rhythms from both cultures into a modern concert piece that is the centerpiece for a concert featuring Garvin, Marc Rosenberg and Rom Ryan and Moodafaruka. 24
It Started in Sighet: Photography Exhibit By Louis Davidson Through October 28, 2015 Photography exhibit of synagogues from around the world in collaboration and presented with The Mollie & Louis Kaplan Museum of Judaica at Congregation Beth Yeshurun
Israel in Light and Shadow: Photography Exhibit by Carole Glauber October 30–December 8, 2015 Opening Reception Sunday, November 1 | 6:00 PM Mavens: Deli as a Family Tradition Photographs by Tara McCauley December 10, 2015–January 18, 2016 New Addition to the Season!
Tastings
Saturday, January 23 | 8:00 PM Experience a comprehensive sampling of the arts, culture and education season in one spectacular setting! Wine, dine and be entertained while sitting among artists and enjoying the company of friends. This intimate evening of fine food and fine art features a gourmet multi-course, Tu B’Shevat-themed meal wherein each course will be paired with a different performance—dance, music, spoken word, short film, and Jewish thought. Sure to delight the most discerning culinary and aesthetic palettes.
BOBBI AND VIC SAMUELS CENTER FOR JEWISH LIVING & LEARNING 7th Annual Rice University Jewish Studies Lecture Series After War: Dynamics of Jewish Christian Relations In Europe and the U.S., World War II occasioned reconsiderations of the Jewish community’s relationship to the dominant culture and the future of Jewish-Christian relationships. This lecture series will explore how the dynamics of interfaith relations transformed as a reaction to the war.
Brotherhood Week, Hanukkah and Christmas: Identity Politics and Interfaith Celebrations in Post-WWII America Presenter: Dr. Joshua Furman Sunday, October 18, 2015 | 4:00 PM Philosemitism in Europe and the United States After World War Two: A Moral Revolution? Presenter: Dr. Daniel Cohen Wednesday, October 21, 2015 | 7:30 PM The Man From Kutno: The Sad Case of Sholem Asch
Presenter: Dr. Melissa Weininger Sunday, October 25, 2015 | 4:00 PM This series is made possible by The Maurice Amado Foundation. All lectures take place at the Evelyn Rubenstein JCC.
Film & Learn: Yoo-Hoo, Mrs. Goldberg Post-Film Discussion Facilitator: Rabbi Kenny Weiss Thursday, October 29, 2015 | 7:00 PM 2009, Aviva Kempner
Gertrude Berg, creator, star and writer (12,000 scripts!) of the 1950s pioneering sitcom The Goldbergs, was a beloved trailblazer. Berg’s blend of comedy and social commentary—with Jewish characters at the center— endeared audiences and made her an American cultural icon. This film tells her funny, surprising, and inspiring story. Day Time Screening Thursday, October 22, 2015 | 1:00 PM
26th Annual Bunny and Leo Horvitz Scholar-in-Residence Program
Dr. Yossi Chajes January 23-February 14, 2016 Opening Night | Monday, January 25, 2016 Dr. Yossi Chajes is an Associate Professor in the Department of Jewish Studies at the University of Haifa. During his threeweek residency, entitled Secret Jewish Histories: Revealing the Hidden Worlds of Jewish Culture, he will offer lectures, mini courses and workshops on Jewish mysticism, magic, kabbalah and other medieval Jewish texts and traditions.
A P RO J E C T O F T H E H E B R E W U N I V E RS IT Y O F J E RU SA L E M
The Florence Melton School of Adult Jewish Learning No Homework. No Grades. Know Judaism. Houston’s Melton School of Adult Jewish Learning invites you to explore the texts of Jewish tradition—ancient and contemporary—and gain a profound understanding of your Jewish heritage. New Melton learners may enroll in our Core program at one of three locations: Evelyn Rubenstein JCC, the J in West Houston, or Congregation Beth Shalom of the Woodlands. Seasoned Melton learners may enroll in our Scholars program—which offers in-depth semester long courses on particular Jewish subjects. Registration is now open for fall and spring courses. We look forward to learning with you!
For more information, visit erjcchouston.org or call 713.729.3200.
TRIBUTES ADULT MITZVAH FUND
In Honor of Sol Markel on his birthday – Florence & Walter Dubov In Memory of Arnold Roman – Florence & Walter Dubov In Memory of Debbie Segal’s brother – Sondra & Jack Laves Anne Rosenthal In Memory of Melvin Levin – Anne Levin In Honor of Sandra and Moses Schimmel on their anniversary – Leah Levine In Memory of Anne Lichtenstein – Marsi Liddell In Honor of Rabbi Teller and all the good work he does – Marc Malacoff In Honor of Jean and Mervin Rosenbaum on their anniversary – Miriam Selig & Adolph Scheiman In Memory of Bernard Abrams – Jean & Mervin Rosenbaum Miriam Selig & Adolph Scheiman Susan & Ed Septimus In Memory of Richard Evans – Roslyn Seltzer In Memory of Betty Aaron – Roslyn Seltzer In Memory of Marion Nisson – Ethel Shocket
ANNUAL FUND
In Memory of Lenny Pruzansky – The ARS team, American Residential Services, Inc. In Honor of Evan Boyko – Philip Boyko In Honor of Mallory Gould – Erin Gould In Memory of Lester Greenspan – Anita & Bruce Gilmer In Honor of Linda and Jerry Rubenstein – Carol & Alan Gold In Memory of Betsy Stemble Kamins – Ricky Kamins In Honor of Linda and Jerry Rubenstein – Millicent Lewis In Memory of Nathan Meltzer – Anne Meltzer
ART EXHIBITION FUND In Memory of my wife, Shirley Chaskin, devoted volunteer for over 40 years – Meyer Chaskin
BOBBI AND VIC SAMUELS CENTER FOR JEWISH LIVING AND LEARNING In Honor of Bar Mitzvahs of Nathaniel Samuels and Zachary Samuels – Elena & Joel Dinkin
CHILDREN’S SCHOLARSHIP BALL FUND In Honor of Dan Steiner on his birthday – Elena & Joel Dinkin
DONNA FRANKOFF JEWISH BOOK FAIR FUND In Honor of Dr. Terry Waldman on his birthday – Libby & Buz Marvins
EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAM FUND
In Memory of Arthur Rosenblum – Paula & Byron Taylor
GERALD RAUCH MEMORIAL FUND
In Honor of Herbert Cook on his birthday – Lila Rauch In Honor of Paula and Alfred Friedlander on their anniversary – Lila Rauch In Honor of Gloria Leder on her birthday– Lila Rauch In Honor of Jean Mintz – Lila Rauch In Honor of Bobby Rauch on his birthday – Lila Rauch In Honor of Renee Spolane on her birthday – Lila Rauch In Honor of Doris and Gerald Katz on their annniversary– Lila Rauch In Honor of Lila Rauch on her birthday – Deborah & Alan Levey In Honor of Lila Rauch on her birthday – Nancy & Jeff Cherry
HARRY K. SMITH MEALS ON WHEELS FUND In Memory of Julius Gordin – Anonymous In Honor of William Isaacs – Linda Metter, Sharon Kagan & families
IRVIN KAPLAN CHILDREN’S SCHOLARSHIP FUND In Honor of Meredith and Jon Berry on their marriage – Dan M. Gordon
JERRY WISCHE LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT FUND
In Honor of Jerry Wische on his birthday – Steve & Nancy Lerner
JEWISH FILM SERIES
In Honor of Sharon Kagan on her birthday – Rita Bergers & Joel Abramowitz
MARILYN HASSID JEWISH BOOK FAIR EMERGING AUTHOR FUND
In honor of Refuah Shlema for Marilyn Hassid – Robyn & Jeff Shkolnick
MARILYN LANDSBERG STEINER EARLY CHILDHOOD TRAINING FUND In Honor of Dan Steiner on his birthday – Mitzi Shure & Jerry Wische
MERFISH RENOVATION CAMPAIGN FUND In Honor of Ruth Brodsky on her birthday – Sherry & Gerald Merfish In Honor of Sam Stolbun, with gratitude for friendship and support - Robyn & Jeff Shkolnick
MIKE GROSSMAN/JUDY RICHKER MACCABI SCHOLARSHIP FUND
In Memory of Shirley and Jack Alter – Vicky & Michael Richker In Memory of Harold Bergman – Vicky & Michael Richker In Memory of Leon Cooper – Vicky & Michael Richker In Memory of Lena Aron Frost – Vicky & Michael Richker In Memory of Naftali Gelrud – Vicky & Michael Richker In Memory of Kimberly Friedman Glover – Vicky & Michael Richker In Memory of Michael Kashar – Vicky & Michael Richker In Memory of Todd Jerome Kaufman – Vicky & Michael Richker In Memory of Maurine Nichols – Vicky & Michael Richker In Memory of George Lipshy – Vicky & Michael Richker In Memory of Carol Bayer Mirsky Vicky & Michael Richker In Memory of Joseph Newman – Vicky & Michael Richker In Memory of Harry Pepper – Vicky & Michael Richker In Memory of Les Robbins – Vicky & Michael Richker In Memory of David Rosenfeld – Vicky & Michael Richker In Memory of Milton Shoss – Vicky & Michael Richker In Memory of Bettiruth Susholtz – Vicky & Michael Richker In Memory of Beverly Ann Wuntch – Vicky & Michael Richker In Honor of Craig Biggio on his induction into Baseball Hall of Fame – Vicky & Michael Richker
RONNIE ARROW JEWISH SPORTS HALL OF FAME FUND
In Honor of Dr. Charles Moser on his induction into the Hall of Fame – Adrienne & Harold Harris In Honor of David Weiser on his induction into the Hall of Fame – Sonia & Leon Horowitz In Memory of Walton Lockett Huff – Melanee & David Weiser
RUTH W. BRODSKY FUND
In Honor of Ruth Brodsky on her birthday – Ronna & Clayton Spitz Janet Elam Nancy & Steve Lerner
SENIOR COMPANIONS PROGRAM FUND In Memory of Selma Laufman – Heather Hon Chambers Howard Glick Kay Richard Kyle Richard Elyse & Richard Rosenberg Charlene Segal Fonda Stern Carolyn Plessner
SHELLY SEROTA MEMORIAL PLAQUE FUND In Memory of Shelly Serota – Lisa Garmezy
SOPH & AL NATKIN STARS PROGRAM FUND In Honor of Dan Steiner on his birthday – Linda & Jerry Rubenstein
STEFFIE ODLE TEACHER TRAINING FUND In Memory of Steffie Odle – Arlene Even Fran & Abe Friedman
SUMMER DAY CAMP PROGRAM FUND
In Memory of Bernard Abrams – Bob Abel, Kit Goldfarb & Dan Lanigan Linda & Larry Goodman Joy & Harris Jacobs Rochelle & Alan Jacobson Diane Lee Kraitman Lonnie, John & Jeri, Stephanie & Phyllis Ricks Shirley Toomin Cyvia & Melvyn Wolff *as of August 30, 2015
NANCY LERNER SCHOLARSHIP FUND
In Honor of Jessica and David on their wedding – Elena & Joel Dinkin In Honor of Stephen Maislin on his birthday – Nancy & Steve Lerner
OLIVER LAPIN CHILDREN’S BOOK FAIR FUND In Honor of Janis Fishman Goldstein on her Bat Mitzvah – Eve & Bobby Lapin In Honor of Bobby Lapin on his birthday – Nancy & Steve Lerner
Thank You to our Generous Donors! We would like to extend our sincere thanks to our many individual, corporate and foundation donors whose generous ongoing support helps the J continue to be a vital community asset. For corrections or to make a donation, please contact our Development Department at 713.729.3200 ext. 3103. 26
The Children’s Scholarship Ball The Children’s Scholarship Ball (CSB) may still be months away, but the Irvin Kaplan Children’s Scholarship Fund is a
Heather Beliveaux “Our eight year old
lifeline to hundreds of families at the J every day. The 25th
daughter Sophia is a
Annual CSB held in March celebrated “super heroes” in our
surviving twin, born four
community. Two of those super heroes are super moms
months early weighing a
in our JCC family who shared how the J made an impact
tiny 9 ounces. We were
during a critical time in their lives. These personal stories
told her chance for survival
are examples of how the efforts of the JCC and the success
was bleak. After seven
of the Ball have made real and lasting impacts in our
months in the NICU, she
community.
came home, but required around-the-clock care. Heather Beliveaux, with husband Nick Salehi, and daughter Sophia
We were often told, “she will never…” But as time passed, Sophia’s health
improved. Before we knew it, it was time for preschool. This was no easy task. At 3, she had a feeding tube and was unable to eat by mouth. She had a limited vocabulary, severely delayed fine motor skills and a visual impairment that rendered her legally blind. Then we found the STARS program at Bertha Alyce Early Childhood School, and it Talia, Gabi and Melissa Magenheim
Melissa Magenheim “My youngest daughter was in Pre-K at Bertha Alyce Early Childhood School when my husband passed away from colon cancer. This was obviously a hard time for us. My girls were 4 and 8, and our lives were changed forever. The outpouring of love and support I received from the J was truly amazing. Both of my children have been attending summer camp for several years thanks to the support that I receive. I grew up in Brooklyn and my entire neighborhood was Jewish. We now live in Pearland, which doesn’t have a Jewish community. The J has given us that. There isn’t a time that I enter the building where someone doesn’t ask me how I’m doing or how the kids are doing. I am forever grateful to the J.”
was as if someone had handed us a map for this strange, uncharted territory. From that moment our lives filled with something more than hope. During her two years in STARS her core strength, balance and motor skills improved. Her confidence grew and her place in the world became defined by ‘I CAN.’ Sophia is now in the third grade. Her academics are well above grade level, and she has been dancing with fully-sighted girls at the J. When there was no place for a child like Sophia, the J created one. And YOU stood behind them in support.” Melissa and Heather’s stories exemplify why the JCC holds this annual gala. Through their stories we are reminded of all the lives the J has touched and how much has been accomplished in the 25 years of this event. The J relies on the community’s generosity to ensure that no family in need of assistance, regardless of religious or ethnic background, is ever turned away because of their inability to pay. We are also reminded that the need to help children still remains.
Please help fulfill our mission. The 26th Annual Children’s Scholarship Ball is Saturday, February 27, 2016. Visit erjcchouston.org/csb for more information.
Evelyn Rubenstein JCC Houston
Nonprofit Org . U.S. Postage
5601 S. Braeswood | Houston, TX 77096-3907 713.729.3200 | erjcchouston.org
PAID
Houston, Texas Permit No. 6217
The Ann and Stephen Kaufman
Jewish B ook & Arts Fair 43 Years of Authors, Music, Theatre & Films | NOVEMBER 1-15, 2015 Underwritten by The Eleanor and Frank Freed Foundation
OPENING NIGHT
Sunday, November 1 | 7:30 PM Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks Not In God’s Name: Confronting Religious Violence FREE EVENT “Rabbi Sacks is one of today’s most interesting thinkers, writers and speakers…this latest book will contribute to the ferocious debates around religion and violence in the world today.” – The Spectator
CLOSING NIGHT
Sunday, November 15 | 7:30 PM Author Talk with Performance Steve Katz Blood, Sweat, and My Rock ‘n’ Roll Years: Is Steve Katz a Rock Star? "...a dizzying, delicious, head-spinning, heart-wrenching tale of the Sixties and what even those of us who were there might have missed – stories of the band he was part of…It is a great ride….” – Judy Collins
erjcchouston.org/bookfair