October 2014 J Connect by Daryl Freedman

EVELYN RUBENSTEIN JCC HOUSTON

OCTOBER 2014

Connect Magazine L’dor Va’dor

GENERATION to from GENERATION Whatever your age or stage in life, we've got you covered. INSIDE

Gift Yourself Peace of Mind p. 5 Children's Scholarship Ball p. 6 Jewish Book & Arts Fair p. 8 Oliver Lapin Family Day p. 10 Theatre is Back at the J! p. 15

Rozie Seltzer, Member, 85 Years Young and Morgan Steinberg, Adult Program Director Read Rozie's story on p. 7 Photo by Mark Katz Photography

erjcchouston.org

Contents Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Health & Wellness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Children’s Scholarship Ball . . . . . . . . . 6 Adults . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Book Fair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Family Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Children, Tween, Teen . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Jewish Learning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Tributes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Arts & Culture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

LOCATION DIRECTORY MILTON LEVIT FAMILY CAMPUS

THE MERFISH TEEN CENTER

5601 S. Braeswood Houston, TX 77096–3907

9000 S. Rice Houston, TX 77096–2626 713.838.7200

Joe Weingarten Building 713.729.3200 Mon–Thur | 7:00 AM–10:00 PM Fri | 7:00 AM–6:00 PM Sat | Closed Sun | 9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Fitness Center 713.551.7211

THE JCC WEST HOUSTON HERZSTEIN BUILDING

1120 Dairy Ashford Houston, TX 77079–3002 281.556.5567

Mon–Thur | 7:00 AM–7:00 PM Fri | 7:00 AM–6:00 PM Sat–Sun | Closed The Ellen Boniuk Early Childhood School 281.556.5567 Mon–Fri | 7:00 AM–6:00 PM

The Boniuk Family Indoor Tennis Center & The Harris J. Weingarten Outdoor Tennis Complex 713.551.7292

For a complete phone directory, please visit erjcchouston.org.

Mon–Thur | 8:00 AM–10:00 PM Fri | 8:00 AM–6:00 PM Sat | 8:00 AM–5:00 PM Sun | 8:00 AM–8:00 PM

At Your Service! We really want you to feel at home here! Our lobby has been transformed into a warm and welcoming space for all to enjoy. Along with the fresh look you’ll find some new, modern-day conveniences, just like at home. We’ve also made changes in Member Services to better provide you with high quality, seamless service. As soon as you walk through the front door, you will feel the energetic vibe coming from the new hub of the building - the concierge service desk. Here our Member Service associates are at your service. Now you can check in, update your membership, enroll in a class, purchase tickets to an event, register for camp or get a new member ID card all in one place. Meet a friend for lunch or healthy snack at Laykie’s Gourmet Café. Have a latte and check email in our Wi-Fi enabled café and lounge

LOBBY HOURS: Sun 9:00 AM–6:00 PM Mon–Thur 8:30 AM–9:00 PM Fri 8:30 AM–5:30 PM

seating areas. Check out when and where activities are taking place throughout the building on our new wall-mounted information screens. Remember you can always visit us at erjcchouston.org to virtually update your account and register for classes and camps. Our online services give you 24/7 access to search your account transaction history, recent visits or take care of last minute Kids Nite Out sign-ups, and much more. Come try a class or visit us during the 42nd Annual Jewish Book & Arts Fair, November 1-16. Please ask our staff about classes and see if there is something new you can try this fall at your home away from home.

Upcoming Holidays and Special Events OCTOBER Kids Nite Out

Oct 25

6:30 PM

An Evening of Dance and Photography

Oct 25

8:00 PM

HC68 and BBYO Connect Limo Scavenger Hunt

Oct 25

TBD

Weingarten Jr. Tournament Series

Oct 26

8:00 AM

Iraq N’ Roll

Oct 29

7:00 PM

42nd Annual Jewish Book & Arts Fair opens

Nov 1

8:00 PM

Kaddish

Nov 8

6:00 PM & 9:00 PM

Kids Nite Out

Nov 8

7:00 PM

Oliver Lapin Family Day

Nov 9

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Yemen Blues Concert (Miller Outdoor Theatre)

Nov 15

7:30 PM

42nd Annual Jewish Book & Arts Fair closes

Nov 16

7:30 PM

Mishpacha & Me Thanksgiving Tzedakah

Nov 16

10:00 AM–11:00 AM

Thanksgiving Break Camp

Nov 26

Close at 6:00 PM

Thanksgiving

Nov 27

Closed

Day After Thanksgiving

Nov 28

Holiday Hours

Mishpacha & Me How to Build a Hanukkiah

Nov 30

10:30 AM–12:00 PM

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER Winter/Spring Class Registration Opens

Dec 1

JCCS presents Fiddler on the Roof, Jr.

Dec 4, 6, 7, 9, 10

Check showtimes

Kids Nite Out

Dec 13

6:30 PM–10:30 PM

The Romanticism of the Russian Soul

Dec 14

4:00 PM

Hanukkah Candle Lightings

Dec 16-19, 22-23

5:15 PM

Winter Break Bash

Dec 25

10:00 AM

Bingo & Bagels

Dec 25

9:30 AM -11:30 AM

Christmas Day

Dec 25

9:00 AM–2:00 PM (holiday hours)

Kids Nite Out

Dec 31

7:00 PM

New Year’s Eve

Dec 31

Close at 6:00 PM

New Year’s Day

Jan 1

9:00 AM–2:00 PM (holiday hours)

Scholar in Residence Josh Lambert

Jan 10-13

JANUARY

Join on your terms

A NEW J WITH A MEMBERSHIP FOR EVERY BUDGET PROGRAM MEMBERSHIP provides enrollment access to our various programs and classes. Only pay for programs you participate in for a low annual fee. Allows enrollment in the following programs: • Early Childhood Education • Gymnastics • Swim Lessons • Child Care • Jewish Education • Dance • Day Camp • Retiree Activities • And Much More

HEALTH, SPORTS & FITNESS MEMBERSHIP provides you with all the benefits of Program Membership, plus access to our state-of-the-art fitness center, group exercise, personal training, massage, indoor and outdoor pools, plus an option to upgrade to executive locker rooms. • 15,000 sq. ft. state-of-the-art facility

TENNIS MEMBERSHIP provides all the benefits of our Health, Sports & Fitness Membership, plus access to our outdoor tennis courts, indoor tennis center, tennis leagues, clinics and lessons. Boniuk Family Indoor Tennis Center • 50,000 sq. ft. air-conditioned indoor facility

• Cardio equipment with personal viewing screens

• Six post-tension hard surface courts

• Indoor cycling studio

• Modern, multi-functional ball machines

• Personal pilates studio • Certified personal fitness trainers • Relaxing whirlpools, saunas, steam room and personal lockers (optional) • 50-meter outdoor and 25-yard indoor swimming pools • Private babysitting room • Basketball and racquetball courts

• State-of-the-art indirect lighting

• Second floor viewing balcony • Pro shop Harris J. Weingarten Outdoor Tennis Complex • Four post-tension hard surface courts • State-of-the-art lighting system

4 For more information: erjcchouston.org/membership | membership@erjcchouston.org | 713.729.3200 ext. 3221

Gift Yourself with

Peace of

MIND You can’t help living in a fast-paced world, but you can choose to turn it off for an hour a week and help reduce stress, build balance and increase mindfulness with Hatha Yoga at the J. Eva Loeb, a long-time member of the J has been taking yoga for more than 12 years. It is now such a routine part of her week that everyone knows it.

Eva Loeb, Member

“It simply brings peace and joy,” said Eva. “With all that I have going on in my life, it’s the one hour a week that is mine. And everyone knows that this is my time and that nothing can interfere with it.”

Eva is a retired school counselor who loves traveling, spending time with grandchildren and enjoying music. She started yoga as a way to decrease stress and fatigue; she didn’t expect all the other benefits she would receive. “You don’t even realize the flexibility, strength and balance you are developing in the class, but stress reduction is one of the main benefits,” said Eva. Yoga is a mind-body practice that combines stretching exercises, controlled breathing and relaxation. Yoga can help reduce stress, lower blood pressure and improve heart function. With its slow, controlled movements and necessity of holding poses for short periods of time, yoga also teaches self-discipline and measured responses. Some students have noted a reduction in health issues that were once a problem. Pilates also promotes a sense of calm and peace while instilling discipline and mindfulness. Pilates consists of low-impact flexibility and muscular strength and endurance movements. Pilates emphasizes use of the abdominals, lower back, hips and thighs. If you experience stress too often, it can lead to serious health problems such as anxiety or depression, and physical health problems such as heart disease and obesity. According to the American Psychological Association, the majority of office visits to the doctor involve stress-related complaints.

Stress is linked to the six leading causes of death: heart disease, cancer, lung ailments, accidents, cirrhosis of the liver and suicide. We offer more than 15 yoga and Pilates classes every week. All are free for fitness center members. Please check out the group exercise class schedule to find that hour that works for you.

You don’t even realize the flexibility, strength and balance you are developing in the class, but stress reduction is one of the main benefits. FITNESS CENTER HOURS

Sunday: 8:00 AM-6:00 PM | Monday-Thursday: 5:00 AM-10:00 PM Friday: 5:00 AM-6:00 PM | Saturday: 8:00 AM-5:00 PM Health, Sports and Fitness membership includes free access to more than 50 classes each week. Visit erjcchouston.org/membership for details. 5

SAVING THE DAY 25 th ANNUAL CHILDREN’S SCHOLARSHIP BALL Benefitting AT

THE

the

EVELYN

Irvin

Kaplan

RUBENSTEIN

Children’s

JEWISH

COMMUNITY

Scholarship CENTER

Fund

HOUSTON

Saturday

March 7, 2015

Westin Galleria-

Houston, Texas

HONORING Eve & Bobby Lapin Mark A. Wallace Honorary chairs lauren & jeremy blachman Marci Rosenberg & Ben Samuels Rosalyn & Barry margolis BALL CHAIRS

AUCTION CHAIRS

Jennifer Haikin Zach

Katie Dillon

& Ron Zach

Lauren Sorkin Amira Staller

Saving the Day for 25 Super Years! Thanks to your generosity, we were able to provide $435,000 in scholarships to J families in 2014. That’s why Jennifer Haikin Zach & Ron Zach are "springing into action" as Ball Chairs of the 25th Annual Children’s Scholarship Ball on March 7, 2015, celebrating 25 years of helping children in greater Houston. The event will honor members of our community who have dedicated their lives to helping children. Honorees are Texas Children’s Hospital President and CEO Mark A. Wallace and community leaders Eve & Bobby Lapin. Honorary Chairs are Rosalyn & Barry Margolis, Lauren & Jeremy Blachman and Marci Rosenberg & Ben Samuels, respectively. Fundraising efforts will benefit the Irvin Kaplan Children’s Scholarship Fund, which gives financial aid to hundreds of families who want to enrich their children’s lives through programs at the J. In the early 1990s, a group of loving friends and family established the scholarship fund to honor Irvin Kaplan. Irvin, who passed away in 1994, was a native Houstonian and a 6

successful entrepreneur. He made lasting contributions to the Jewish community and the community at large. Since its inception, the Children’s Scholarship Ball has raised approximately $9.5 million for the fund, providing more than 6,500 scholarships for children from six-week-old infants to teenagers. Recipients from all backgrounds and with different abilities and are able to enjoy stimulating early childhood care, educational activities, special needs programs and summer day camp at the J. Auction Chairs, Katie Dillon, Lauren Sorkin and Amira Staller will be heading up an extensive silent auction. After 25 years, the requests may vary, but the increasing need never wanes. Your generous support ensures all children in need receive this help at the J. Tables of 10 and individual tickets may be purchased starting at $3,000 and $300, respectively. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. For questions please contact Melissa Gordon, Director of Special Events, at 713.729.3200 ext. 3202 or csb@erjcchouston.org. Donations and tributes may be made in honor of these outstanding community leaders at erjcchouston.org/csb. Individual donors pledging $600 or more will be listed on the invitation for the black tie gala as part of the 2015 Tribute Committee.

JUST ADD TO YOUR LIFE! The J has given 85-year-old Rozie Seltzer a precious gift. Rozie moved to Houston recently to be closer to her daughter and son-in-law after losing her husband. After much encouragement from her daughter, she started coming to the J for programs. “I have always been active in my community, and the J has given me a sense of belonging,” said Rozie. “It was easy to make new friends because of the variety of programs and activities that I have been able to attend at the J from Bingo to Shabbat dinner to lifelong learning classes. I am having so much fun at the J.” Active adults like Rozie don’t see themselves as a “senior” or “older.” That’s why at the J we’re calling our program “Adults on the Go… 60 and Better,” offering a variety of programs to meet the intellectual, fitness and social needs of our members. Symposium: Lifelong Learning Institute is a great way to keep your mind active. The J provides this stimulating group of discussions on a range of topics with a very doable, four-week course. Classes are led by an expert volunteer in our community.

Rozie Seltzer, Member, 85 years young Photo by Mark Katz Photography

It’s never too late to discover something new about yourself. “Join us and get the benefit of receiving group ticket prices and not having to worry about driving at night or parking,” said Morgan Steinberg, adult program director. “In November, we’re planning a trip to Miller Outdoor Theatre to hear the Yemen Blues.” You can learn about all programs offered for Adults…60 and better at erjcchouston.org/adultsonthego.

We know that helping you live up to your potential means not only keeping your mind healthy, but also your body. Let us help you find the right exercise at the Fitness Center. Our well-trained staff offers adapted workouts with our “Stay Young through Fitness” classes where participants can remain seated and still benefit from stretching and movement. It’s never too late to discover something new about yourself. Some adults begin new hobbies or explore hidden talents once they have time to devote to themselves. Come check out our new and improved ceramics studio. Thanks to Marge Mayer, a very dedicated volunteer who helped with the recently refurbished studio and the hiring of a new instructor, our ceramics class filled up quickly. And plans for a comprehensive Adult Art Institute is in the works that will include classes in embroidery, fabric/scarf dyeing, quilting, painting, drawing, jewelry making and much more. Our group loves to see the town and getting out and about just got a whole lot easier with our monthly day or evening excursion to Houston’s cultural sites.

& BAGELS Thursday, December 25 | 9:30 AM- 11:30 AM $10 Member | $14 Public RSVP to Esther Bethke at 713.595.8186 by December 18. Enjoy fresh bagels while spending the morning at the J playing BINGO. The cost includes a BINGO card packet of three cards for each of the 12 games. 7

Get Your Culture On Art, dance, film, literature, music and theatre— it’s all at the J! The 2014-15 arts & culture season continues its rich tradition of presenting fresh takes on long-standing topics and challenging perspectives while engaging audiences across cultural lines. The diversity of the programs we offer will not only stimulate your mind, but also strengthens our community while showcasing Jewish and Israeli culture.

The Ann and Stephen Kaufman

Jewish B ook & Arts Fair 42 Years of Authors, Music & Films

Underwritten by the Eleanor and Frank Freed Foundation

OPENING NIGHT

The Ann & Stephen Kaufman Jewish Book & Arts Fair, November 1-16, offers a variety of opportunities to experience Jewish literary, cultural and performing arts. Humorist Alan Zweibel opens the Fair. Alan is most noted for writing the Saturday Night Live Samurai sketches for John Belushi and the busy-body broadcaster, Roseanne Roseannadana for Gilda Radner. Jewish Book & Arts Fair Chair Maxine Goodman Zweibel has won multiple awards for his brilliant work including Curb Your Enthusiasm and the Tony Award-Winning 700 Sundays with Billy Crystal. Currently, he is an executive producer of Showtime’s hit series Inside Comedy starring David Steinberg and is featured in the documentary Quality Balls: The David Steinberg Story, just one of the five films at the Fair. Closing the two-week Book & Arts Fair event is Israeli journalist, Ari Shavit, speaking on his powerful new book, My Promised Land: The Triumph and Tragedy of Israel. Established writers like Joseph Telushkin and Tova Mirvis, and emerging authors Jessica Soffer and Ofir Touché Gafla hint at the quality of programs that will be presented.

Saturday, November 1 | 8:00 PM Alan Zweibel Laughing at Me: Rebounding from the “Misses” Sandwiched Between the Hits Underwritten by Janet and Elton Lipnick

CLOSING NIGHT

Oliver Lapin Family Day hosts the Houston premier of the newest Jewish pop group, Josh and the Jamtones, and authors Cary Fagan, Nate Hausmann, and Sheri Kiss. On Saturday, November 15 the Fair returns to Miller Outdoor Theatre with Yemen Blues, the boisterous music ensemble that mixes Yemeni and West African sounds with blues, funk and mambo. You don’t have to wait until November to be inspired at the J…. Philadephia’s Koresh Dance Company returns to the Kaplan Theatre in late October for a one-night performance of its celebratory work, Come Together, choreographed to the music of the Idan Raichel Project. Joined with Roni Koresh’s Yemenite-rooted choreography, we also will display Naftali Hilger’s Jews of Yemen photographs in the Deutser Art Gallery. Don’t miss an exciting fall season at the J. Tickets are available at erjcchouston.org or 713.551.7255. 8 8

Sunday, November 16 | 7:30 PM Ari Shavit My Promised Land: The Triumph and Tragedy of Israel

The Ann and Stephen Kaufman

Jewish Book & Arts Fair Highlights Saturday, November 8 | 6:00 PM & 9:00 PM Kaddish

STARRING JAKE GOODMAN

Kaddish, from the Jewish prayer of mourning, is the stage adaptation of Hungarian-born writer Imre Kertész’s novel, Kaddish for an Unborn Child. This is the first production in the new 2014–2015 Theatre Season at the J.

Saturday, November 15 | 7:30 PM

Yemen Blues

ALTERNATE LOCATION - MILLER OUTDOOR THEATRE | 6000 HERMANN PARK DR.

Passionate and magnetic Yemeni-born Israeli singer Ravid Kahalani leads a concert of intoxicating music that merges West African rhythms and ancient Jewish Yemenite melodies, mambo and funk. Underwritten by The Maurice Amado Foundation

Tuesday, November 11 | 8:00 PM Community Read: Tova Mirvis | Visible City An intimate and provocative novel about three couples whose paths intersect in their New York City neighborhood, forcing them all to weigh the comfort of stability against the costs of change. “Written with passion and unflinching honesty...” – Joshua Henkin, author of The World Without You

Wednesday, November 5 | 8:00 PM Liel Leibovitz | A Broken Hallelujah: Rock and Roll, Redemption, and the Life of Leonard Cohen More than just an account of the artist's life, A Broken Hallelujah is an intimate look at the artist—emotionally astute as it is philosophically observant. Delving into the sources and meaning of Cohen’s work, Liel Leibovitz beautifully illuminates what Cohen is telling us and why we listen so intensely.

For more information on the Ann and Stephen Kaufman Jewish Book & Arts Fair, or to purchase a Series Pass, visit erjcchouston.org or call 713.551.7255.

JOIN THE CONVERSATION!

Follow the J on Twitter at @erjcchouston. Use #JBAF for Book Fair highlights and updates or to Tweet about your experience! 9

Oliver Lapin Family Day Sunday, November 9 | 9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Nate Hausmann ABC ‫ אבג‬Animals

Sheri Kiss and Bill Megenhardt Dream Write

AGES 2-6 | 10:45 AM – 11:15 AM

AGES 3-6 | 9:00 AM–9:25 AM

PJ Library Event Featuring Josh and the Jamtones and the PJ library book Sunrise Sunset

Hebrew Book Corner

‫פינת הספרים‬

AGES 2-5 | 11:15 AM–11:45 AM

AGES 2–6 | 9:30 AM–10:30 AM

Dream Write and PJ Library Event underwritten by Marian and Gaby Braun & Taryn and Dan Braun In honor of Jacob, Ryan, and Asher Braun

Cary Fagan Mr. Zinger’s Hat

AGES 5-8 | 9:30 AM–10:00 AM & 11:15 AM–11:45 AM

Reading is a tradition Jake Goodman Bible Story Detectives (or What Really Happened?)

at the J

AGES 5-8 | 9:30 AM–10:00 AM & 11:15 AM–11:45 AM

Josh and the Jamtones Concert AGES 5-8 | 10:15 AM–11:00 AM Individual Tickets: $8 Member | $12 Public Family of 5 or More: $6 Member | $9 Public

Oliver Lapin Family Day is endowed in loving memory of Oliver Lapin by his family. Josh and the Jamtones Concert is 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 Josh and the Jamtones concert. For concert tickets visit erjcchouston.org/bookfair or call 713.551.7255.

SCHOOL’S OUT!

When it comes to children, the J is a one-stop shop for fun and enriching extracurricular programs. Whether it’s after school, a Saturday night or a school holiday, we have your children covered.

Kids Nite Out

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8 | 7:00 PM AGES 5–10

Family Havdallah followed by music, books and activities for the kids featuring Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins and Rifka Takes a Bow. Additional Kids Nite Out dates: December 13 & 31.

Winter Break Bash

Making Magic at the J with Benjamin Corey THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25 | 10:00 AM

MEMBER: $8 INDIVIDUAL | $30 FAMILY PUBLIC: $10 INDIVIDUAL | $35 FAMILY

Thanksgiving Break Camp WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 26 | 9:00 AM-3:30 PM K-5 GR

School’s out so come play at the J! Thanksgiving camp will feature a fun field trip, games, swimming and much more. AM Care is also available (7:00-9:00 AM).

Winter Break Camp

DECEMBER 22-JANUARY 2 | 9:00 AM-3:30 PM K-8 GR

Winter Break Camp will feature a daily field trip camp, gymnastics camp or tennis camp plus games in the gym, swimming and much more! AM & PM Care options also available. (No camp 12/25, 1/1. No PM Care 12/24, 12/31)

Benjamin Corey

Instead of being bored at home on December 25, head on out to the J with your kids for an amazing magical performance. Benjamin Corey will awe the crowd and enthrall every member of the audience, both young and old. He is an interactive, funny and extremely skilled professional you won’t want to miss! Join us for crafts and games after the show.

For more information, please contact Nomi Barancik at 713.729.3200 ext. 3288 or nbarancik@erjcchouston.org.

Jewish Learning

CENTER FOR JEWISH LIVING AND LEARNING

Iraq N’ Roll

Lecturer: Rice University Postdoctoral Fellow Yehuda Sharim

Wednesday, October 29 | 7:00 PM–8:30 PM $7 Member | $10 Public

Iraq N’ Roll

This program features the English-subtitled documentary film Iraq N’ Roll (by Gili Gaon) with pre and post-film discussion. The movie follows popular contemporary Israeli rock musician Dudu Tassa as he embarks on a deeply personal journey to reconnect with the musical legacy of his grandfather, Daud al-Kuwaity. This program is in conjunction with our opening week of events for The Jews of Yemen exhibit.

Melton School Classes

Why Register For The Florence Melton School Of Adult Jewish Learning?

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

This spring Houston’s Florence Melton School of Adult Jewish Learning invites you to encounter the entire Jewish Tradition—history, theology, festivals and ethics—in just two hours once a week. Be part of an exciting, thought-provoking pluralistic conversation that will add perspective and meaning to your Jewish life and identity. New Melton learners may enroll in our Core program at one of three locations: the Weingarten Building, the J in West Houston, or Robert M. Beren Academy; seasoned Melton learners may enroll in our Scholars program—which offers in-depth semester long courses on particular Jewish subjects. This year the Scholars program features 13 new, faculty-created courses with such varied subjects as: Jewish Women in Their Own Words, How Does Halacha Work, and Trends in Modern Jewish Worship. Spring registration is now open. Please contact Nomi Barancik at 713.729.3200, ext. 3288, or nbarancik@erjcchouston.org for more information.

Scholar in Residence Josh Lambert History of Jewish Comedy in America

January 10–13

CJLL Welcomes Scholar Josh Lambert for four days of living and learning about Jewish comedy. The event will kick off on Saturday night with a special program, Cocktails & Comedy. Other program highlights will include lectures on the evolution of Jewish comedy from the Bible to America. Lambert is a Tablet Magazine contributing editor and comedy columnist, director of the Yiddish Book Center, Visiting Assistant Professor of English at University of Massachusetts, Amherst, and author most recently of Unclean Lips: Obscenity, Judaism, and American Culture.

Saturday, January 10 | 7:00 PM–9:00 PM Cocktails & Comedy Sunday, January 11 | 4:00 PM-5:30 PM Lecture/Discussion: “The Roots of Jewish Humor” Monday, January 12 | 7:30 PM-9:00 PM Lecture/Discussion: “Laughing at Jews in America”

Tuesday, January 13 | 6:00 PM–6:45 PM Dinner with Melton School Text Discussion: “Jews Encounter Modernity, Laughing” Tuesday, January 13 | 7:30 PM Young Adult Comedy Show

For more information please visit erjcchouston.org/comedy.

From Torah to Table: The Ethics of Jewish Eating | Spring 2015

Jewish culture and tradition are inextricably linked to food. Whether we are reciting a blessing, preparing a holiday meal or debating the ethics of organic versus conventional produce, the Jewish people are constantly engaging with what we eat. But what does it really mean to eat Jewishly? This series features Rabbis from across the national Jewish community: Arthur Waskow, Mary Zamore, and Shmuly Yanklowitz.

For more information about the Center for Jewish Living and Learning, contact Nomi Barancik at nbarancik@erjcchouston.org or call 713.729.3200, ext. 3288.

Photo by Mark Katz Photography

Mishpacha & Me Celebrate Judaism through creative and fun family activities all over town! This program is specifically designed for Jewish families with children ages 0-5.

Thanksgiving Tzedakah with Meals on Wheels Sunday, November 16 | 10:00 AM–11:00 AM Weingarten Building

Teach your children the importance of tzedakah by preparing and delivering a special meal and gift basket for a senior.

Hanukkah Candle Lightings Join us as we light Hanukkah candles together: December 16-19 and 22-23 5:15 PM in the Main Lobby or 5:30 PM in the BAS library for our Bertha Alyce Families

$1 OFF

How to Build a Hanukkiah Sunday, November 30 | 10:30 AM–12:00 PM Weingarten Building

$10 PURCHASE

Using supplies from the hardware and craft store, build your own hanukkiah to use this year and forever.

For more information, please contact Anna Abramzon at aabramzon@erjcchouston.org or call 713.729.3200.

Festive Amaretto Pound Cake

For hours visit erjcchouston.org

Must present coupon to redeem offer. Valid for one per coupon. May not be combined with any other offer or discount. No cash value. EXPIRES NOVEMBER 16, 2014

Exp.

RECIPE

4 Eggs 2 Cups Sugar 2/3 Cup Oil 2 tsp baking powder 2 Cups Flour 1 Pack Instant Vanilla Pudding 3/4 Cup Orange Juice 1/4 Cup Vodka 1/4 Cup Amaretto Liquor 1) Preheat oven to 350 2) Combine the dry ingredients 3) With the mixer on low speed, slowly add liquids 4) Pour into a bundt pan 5) Bake for 1 hour at 350. Cool and then invert cake. 6) When cake cools off, sprinkle with powdered sugar.

Laykie Donin owner of Laykie’s Café at the J shares a favorite holiday recipe that is easy to prepare and delicious to eat. 13

Tributes

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.

ANN & STEPHEN KAUFMAN JEWISH EDUCATION FUND

In Memory of Sheldon Cohen – Debra & Jason Dluhy In Honor of Ann Kaufman – Cherrill Dubinski

CHILDREN’S SCHOLARSHIP BALL In Honor of Ethan Samuels – Janis & David Goldstein

DANCE MONTH

In Honor of Karen Freedman – Ella & Arthur Hamberger

GENERAL TRIBUTE FUND

In Honor of Mr. & Mrs. Bob Zinn – Morris Glesby In Honor of Gerald Merfish – Sherrie & Alan Eisenman In Honor of Jerry Rubenstein – Nancy & Gary Glesby In Honor of Leah Gross – Iris & David Littwitz In Memory of Benay Chandler – Carol & Seth Alberts In Memory of Marsha Rosenblatt – Ann & Stephen Kaufman In Memory of Sheldon Cohen – Bobbi & Vic Samuels In Memory of Betty Jean Leowentritt Kaplan – Bobbi & Vic Samuels In Honor of David Leff – Irene & Alex Wolchansky In Honor of Kenneth Katz – Bobbi & Vic Samuels In Honor of Joy Blog – Bobbi & Vic Samuels

GERALD RAUCH MEMORIAL FUND

In Honor of Edith Lewis – Lila Rauch In Memory of Alexander Paul Meyerson – Lila Rauch In Honor of Herbert Cook – Lila Rauch In Honor of Mr. & Mrs. Gerald Katz – Lila Rauch In Honor of Mr. & Mrs. Alfred Friedlander – Lila Rauch In Honor of Lila Rauch - Pam, Andrew, Robin, Aron, Braden, Zachy & Lexi Susman In Honor of Barbara Cook – Lila Rauch In Honor of Beth Weisberg – Lila Rauch In Honor of Renee Spolane – Lila Rauch

HARRY K. SMITH MEALS ON WHEELS FUND

In Honor of Albert Stein – Cherill Dubinski In Honor of Dan Leightman – Arlene & Jack Rawitcher In Memory of Evelyn Feld – Jane & Stuart Weil In Honor of David Leff – Irene & Alex Wolchansky In Memory of Rabbi Howard Trusch – Joyce Greenberg In Honor of Daniel Musher – Joyce Greenberg In Honor of Benjamin Musher – Joyce Greenberg In Honor of Michael Richker – Sandy & Don Harris In Honor of Albert Stein – Sharon & Michael Segal In Honor of Albert Stein – Shelley & Victor Wisner In Memory of Jeanette Schoen – Linda & Joel Chess In Honor of Jachary & Maxwell Solomon – Renee & Henry Bickart In Memory of Nathan Meltzer – Anne Meltzer In Memory of Albert Maslia – Joanie & Chuck Weiner

JCC MACCABI GAMES FUND

In Memory of Sheldon Cohen – Esther & Gary Polland In Honor of Jerry Selzer – Sherry & Lenny Dubin In Memory of Alexander Paul Meyerson – Mardi & Mark Kunik In Memory of Marsha Rosenblatt – Tami & Gregg Sheena In Memory of Marsha Rosenblatt – Marge & Hans Mayer

Bronze statue of Evelyn Rubenstein in the lobby

MIKE GROSSMAN/JUDY RICHKER MACCABI SCHOLARSHIP FUND In Honor of Lauren Blachman – Kathy & Stephen Parven In Honor of Patsy Sklar – In Memory of Arthur Lubel – In Memory of Abraham Margolin – In Memory of Dorathy Dreeben Block – In Memory of David Skibell – In Memory of Marlene Friedman – In Memory of Leonard Stein – In Memory of Elaine Silverman Clark – In Memory of Milton Karp – In Memory of Harvey Lewis – In Memory of Ruth Pulaski Lack – In Honor of Sol Sachs – In Honor of Larry Greenfield – In Honor of Clara & Bob Gold – In Honor of Gloria Pepper Katz – Vicky & Michael Richker

OLIVER LAPIN CHILDREN’S BOOK FAIR FUND In Memory of Marsha Rosenblatt – Eve & Bobby Lapin

RAYMOND E. PLOTKIN JCC MACCABI GAMES TENNIS SCHOLARSHIP FUND

In Memory of Gertrude Ingram – Eleanor Levine In Honor of Jackson Aaron Rockoff – Elaine & Ronald Plotkin

SOPH & AL NATKIN STARS FUND

In Memory of Soffie – Elyse & Lewis Kalmans

JEWISH ARTS & CULTURE FUND In Honor of Sharon Kagan – Deborah & Martin Kagan

LEO HORVITZ SCHOLAR-IN-RESIDENCE FUND

In Honor of Sharon & Arnold Kagan – Deborah & Martin Kagan

MARILYN LANDSBERG STEINER FUND In Memory of Lenore Litman – Shirley & Sonny Landsberg

*as of August 31, 2014

For corrections or to make a donation, please contact our Development Department at 713.729.3200 ext. 3103.

JOIN US!

An Evening of Dance and Photography Featuring Koresh Dance Company and The Jews of Yemen Photography Exhibit Saturday, October 25 | 8:00 PM

erjcchouston.org/koresh

Photo credit: Frank Bicking

Theatre is Back at the J! Soon you will be able to enjoy Jewish theatre right here at the J with a series of compelling, provocative and joyful presentations. This first season features three performances, including one your whole family will enjoy. President Bobbi Samuels, determined to revive Jewish Theatre at the J, recruited longtime board member and theatre aficionado Maida Asofsky to chair a new theatre committee and create this first season. Her group’s plans include bringing nationally touring groups to the J and forming collaborations with professional theaters in Houston to produce Jewish offerings. Now with theater back at the J, we have the opportunity to experience and celebrate Jewish culture through a different medium. We will be able to enjoy Jewish productions consistently throughout the year, benefiting not only our J community, but also the larger Houston community. Inaugurating our first season is Kaddish, a riveting stage adaptation of Hungarian-born writer Imre Kertész’s novel, Kaddish for an Unborn Child. Taking its title from the Jewish prayer of mourning, the central character, performed by New York based actor Jake Goodman, recites Kaddish for the child he refuses to bring into a world that permitted the Holocaust. Kertész, a survivor of Auschwitz and Buchenwald, received the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2002 “for writing that upholds the fragile experience of the individual against the barbaric arbitrariness of history.”

the founding preschool storyteller at the 14th Street Y in NYC, will lead two interactive programs on Oliver Lapin Family Day on November 9. Families and the young at heart will enjoy our field trip to see Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at The Hobby Center in March. In April, the J ventures into a collaborative presentation for the regional premiere of Bad Jews by Joshua Harmon. Meeting one of the goals set by our new theatre committee to work with Houston professional theatres—this compelling new play is a co-production of Stages Repertory Theatre with Black Lab Theatre. For more information and tickets, please visit erjcchouston.org/ theatre.

Kaddish Starring Jake Goodman November 8

Kaddish will be presented on November 8 during the Ann and Stephen Kaufman Jewish Book & Arts Fair. Jake Goodman, who is also the former associate director of “Storahtelling” and 15

Evelyn Rubenstein JCC Houston

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5601 S. Braeswood | Houston, TX 77096-3907 713.729.3200 | erjcchouston.org

The Ann and Stephen Kaufman

Jewish B ook & Arts Fair 42 Years of Authors, Music & Films | NOVEMBER 1-16, 2014 OPENING NIGHT

Saturday, November 1 | 8:00 PM Alan Zweibel Laughing at Me: Rebounding from the “Misses” Sandwiched Between the Hits FREE EVENT

Award-winning Alan Zweibel’s comedy writing and signature offbeat humor have delighted millions. Underwritten by Janet and Elton Lipnick

CLOSING NIGHT

Sunday, November 16 | 7:30 PM Ari Shavit My Promised Land: The Triumph and Tragedy of Israel Ari Shavit, one of the most influential journalists writing about the Middle East today, discusses his authoritative and deeply personal history of Israel.

erjcchouston.org/bookfair