2017-2018 J Connect Program Guide by Daryl Freedman

August 2017

EVELYN RUBENSTEIN JCC HOUSTON

Connect Magazine

2017â&#x20AC;&#x201C;2018

Program Guide Edition INSIDE

The J Difference p. 19 Power the J Annual Fund p. 20 Meet the Baum/Dobbs Family p. 22 Volunteer with Us p. 30 Arts & Culture Season Lineup p. 31

erjcchouston.org Photo by Mark Katz Photography

LOCATION DIRECTORY

J Connect Magazine 2017–2018 Program Guide Edition

Contents

MILTON LEVIT FAMILY CAMPUS

5601 S. Braeswood Houston, TX 77096 – 3907 Joe Weingarten Building 713.729.3200

Early Childhood at a Glance................ 4 K – 5 Grade at a Glance. . .......................5 Children.................................................6 Teens................................................... 12 Family Engagement............................. 14 Special Needs...................................... 15 Adult Wellness.................................... 16 The J Difference................................... 19 The J Annual Fund...............................20 Donor Spotlight................................... 22 Adult Education.................................. 24 Volunteer with Us ..............................30 Season of Arts & Culture.................... 31 Holidays & Special Events..................39

THE MERFISH TEEN CENTER

9000 S. Rice Houston, TX 77096 – 2626 713.838.7200

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

Mon – Thur | 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Fri | 5:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sat | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sun | 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM The Bertha Alyce Early Childhood School Falik Education Center The Joe Levit Family Parenting Center 713.551.7200 Mon – Fri | 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM The Boniuk Family Indoor Tennis Center & The Harris J. Weingarten Outdoor Tennis Complex 713.551.7292 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

1120 Dairy Ashford Houston, TX 77079 – 3002 281.556.5567

> STAY CONNECTED WITH US! < Download our J App on your phone or wrist!

Download the J Connect Magazine app and subscribe!

Browse a list of upcoming class schedules.

You'll automatically get each and every

Be reminded of your upcoming classes

J Connect Magazine delivered to you

and receive push notifications from

digitally, complete with links to upcoming

your facility. See a list of your upcoming

programs, video clips of upcoming shows

reservations and scan your device

and performances and specials available

to check in to the facility.

only to digital subscribers.

We're social! Follow us on your favorite social media sites.

facebook.com/erjcc

youtube.com/jcchouston

@erjcchouston

instagram.com/erjcchouston

App & J Connect Magazine 2

App & J Connect Magazine

@erjcchouston

Join on your terms

A membership for everyone starting at $216/yr. New for 2017: Family Program Membership

Visit erjcchouston.org/membership for more information.

REFER A FRIEND AND GET A $50 J PROGRAM CREDIT! It’s as simple as 1-2-3:

1. Refer a friend! As a member, telling one of your friends about us is the best compliment you could give! 2. $50 for you. $25 for them! When they join and write your name as the person referring them on their application. You’ll get a $50 program credit, and they’ll get a $25 program credit.

3. Enjoy a new program with that FREE credit. Everyone gets to try something new! *J Program Credit issued after new member joins and issued in the form of a promotional $50/$25 credit card. Referrer must be a J Member in good standing. See terms and conditions on the card for redemption details.

Give the Gift of the J! Gift Cards Available at the Front Desk. 3

AT A GLANCE | Early Childhood Programs SUNDAY Guppies 2:00 PM–2:30 PM

AQUATICS

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

Guppies 2:30 PM–3:00 PM 4:30 PM–5:00 PM

Starfish 3:10 PM–3:40 PM 4:30 PM–5:00 PM

Minnows 3:50 PM–4:20 PM 5:10 PM–5:40 PM

Dancing Tots 3:30 PM– 4:15 PM

Toddler Dance 9:30 AM–10:15 AM

Dancing Tots 3:30 PM–4:15 PM

Pre Ballet 4 1/2s–5s 3:30 PM–4:15 PM

Pre Ballet 3:30 PM–4:15 PM

Dancing 3 1/2s–4s 3:30 PM–4:15 PM

Diaper Daredevils 9:45 AM–10:30 AM

Mighty Munchkins 3:15 PM–4:00 PM

Kindernastics 3:15 PM–4:00 PM

Cartwheel Kids 10:45 AM–11:30 AM

Cartwheel Kids 4:15 PM–5:00 PM

Cartwheel Kids 2:15 PM–3:00 PM 4:15 PM–5:00 PM

Tiptoe Toddlers 10:45 AM–11:30 AM

Kindernastics 4:15 PM–5:00 PM 5:15 PM–6:00 PM

Minnows 2:30 PM–3:00 PM Infant/Parent 3:30 PM–4:00 PM

DANCE

GYMNASTICS

MONDAY

Kindernastics 11:45 AM–12:30 PM

Mighty Munchkins 3:15 PM–4:00 PM 5:15 PM–6:00 PM Kindernastics 4:15 PM–5:00 PM

Red Hots 3:30 PM–4:15 PM Mighty Munchkins 4:15 PM–5:00 PM Cartwheel Kids 5:15 PM–6:00 PM

Kindernastics 2:15 PM–3:00 PM 3:15 PM–4:00 PM Mighty Munchkins 4:15 PM–5:00 PM Cartwheel Kids 5:15 PM–6:00 PM

FRIDAY

Tiptoe Toddlers 9:30 AM–10:15 AM Kindernastics 2:15 PM–3:00 PM Red Hots 3:30 PM–4:15 PM Diaper Daredevils 3:15 PM-4:00 PM

Mighty Munchkins 11:45 AM–12:30 PM

MUSIC

SPORTS & REC TENNIS

First Hebrew Songs 10:00 AM–10:45 AM 11:00 AM–11:45 AM

Musical Babies 10:00 AM–10:45 AM

Meyerland Soccer at the J Times Vary

Tiny Stars 1:00 PM–1:30 PM

THEATRE

Musical Babies 10:00 AM–10:45 AM

Taekwondo 3:30 PM–4:00 PM

Sports Hour 3:15 PM–4:00 PM

Tiny Stars 3:00 PM–3:30 PM

Theater Tots 3:30 PM–4:15 PM

Youth Soccer Fundamentals 3:15 PM–4:00 PM

Theater Tots 3:30 PM–4:15 PM

*Class information is current as of print date. Subject to change. Please visit us online at erjcchouson.org/programguide for current listings.

SPECIAL NEEDS CLASSES - SUNDAYS (ALL AGES) Gymnastics Superstars 12:30 PM–1:15 PM

Sport Stars Basketball 4:00 PM–4:45 PM

NEED HELP REGISTERING ONLINE?

Sport Stars Soccer 5:00 PM–5:45 PM

Watch our online ‘how–to’ video tutorials to quickly guide you through a step–by–step process=to register for a program or class, reset your password and more. 4

Visit erjcchouston.org/how–to–videos

AT A GLANCE | K–5th Grade Programs SUNDAY Minnows 2:30 PM–3:00 PM Goldfish 3:00 PM–3:30 PM

AQUATICS

MONDAY

TUESDAY Minnows 3:50 PM–4:20 PM 5:10 PM–5:40 PM

Minnows 3:50 PM–4:20 PM 5:10 PM–5:40 PM

Coog Swim Team 4:00 PM–7:30 PM

Stroke Dev. Program 4:30 PM–5:30 PM

Goldfish 5:10 PM–5:40 PM

Coog Dev. Team 6:00 PM-7:00 PM

Painting 4:00 PM–5:00 PM

Ceramics: Clay Class 4:00 PM–5:00 PM 5:15 PM–6:15 PM

Pre Ballet/Tap 4:30 PM-5:25 PM

Pre Ballet/Tap 4:00 PM-5:00 PM

Visual Art 5:00 PM–5:45 PM

JCrew

3:30 PM–5:00 PM

DANCE

THURSDAY

Minnows 3:50 PM–4:20 PM 5:10 PM–5:40 PM

Visual Art 4:00 PM–4:45 PM

ART

WEDNESDAY

Ballet I 4:30 PM–5:30 PM

Ballet/Tap/Jazz IA 4:30 PM–5:30 PM

Jazz/Hip Hop IA 4:30 PM–5:25 PM

Contemporary Dance Ballet/Tap/Jazz I 5:30 PM–6:25 PM 4:30 PM–5:25 PM

Jazz/Hip Hop IB 5:30 PM–6:25 PM

Modern I 5:30 PM–6:25 PM

Ballet/Tap/Jazz IA 4:30 PM-5:30 PM Jazz/Hip Hop I 5:00 PM-6:00 PM Ballet II 5:30 PM-6:25 PM

Girls Bronze (Beg) 1:30 PM–2:30 PM Girls Silver (Beg–Int) 2:30 PM–3:30 PM

Bronze Rec. Tramp & Tumbling 4:00 PM–5:00 PM

Silver Rec. Tramp & Tumbling 4:00 PM–5:00 PM

Boys Bronze (Beg) 4:15 PM–5:15 PM 5:20 PM–6:20 PM

Boys Bronze (Beg) 4:15 PM–5:15 PM

Girls Bronze (Beg) 4:15 PM–5:15 PM 5:20 PM–6:20 PM

GYMNASTICS

Girls Silver (Beg–Int) 4:15 PM–5:15 PM 5:20 PM–6:20 PM Girls Gold (Int–Adv) 6:25 PM–7:25 PM

Girls Bronze (Beg) 4:15 PM–5:15 PM Girls Silver (Beg–Int) 4:15 PM–5:15 PM 5:20 PM–6:20 PM 6:25 PM–7:25 PM

Boys Bronze (Beg) 4:15 PM–5:15 PM Girls Bronze (Beg) 4:15 PM–5:15 PM 5:20 PM–6:20 PM Girls Silver (Beg–Int) 4:15 PM–5:15 PM 5:20 PM–6:20 PM Girls Gold (Int–Adv) 6:25 PM–7:25 PM

TENNIS

Hip Hop/Tap for Boys Only 4:15 PM–5:15 PM Broadway Dance 4:30 PM–5:25 PM Jazz I 5:15 PM–6:00 PM Tramp & Tumbling Jr Team 4:00 PM–6:00 PM

Boys Bronze (Beg) 4:15 PM–5:15 PM Girls Bronze (Beg) 4:15 PM–5:15 PM Girls Silver (Beg–Int) 4:15 PM–5:15 PM 5:20 PM–6:20 PM

Boys Silver (Beg–Int) 5:20 PM–6:20 PM

Girls Gold (Int–Adv) 5:20 PM–6:20 PM Jewish Explorers 4:00 PM–4:45 PM

JEWISH EDUCATION

SPORTS & REC

Coog Swim Team 4:00 PM–7:30 PM

Girls Junior Team 4:15 PM–6:15 PM

Girls Gold (Int–Adv) 5:20 PM–6:20 PM

MUSIC

Silver Rec. Tramp & Tumbling 4:00 PM–5:00 PM

FRIDAY

Hebrew Explorers 5:00 PM–5:30 PM Tiny Tunes 1:00 PM-2:00 PM

Lyrical Voices 4:15 PM-5:00 PM

Rhythmic Kids 2:00 PM–3:00 PM Meyerland Soccer at the J - Times Vary

Youth Volleyball 4:30 PM–5:30 PM

Taekwondo 4:15 PM–5:00 PM

Youth Basketball 4:30 PM–5:30 PM

10 & Under 1:00 PM–2:00 PM

10 & Under 4:00 PM–5:00 PM

All Stars 2:00 PM–3:30 PM

All Stars 5:00 PM–6:30 PM

Youth Basketball 4:30 PM–5:30 PM

Soccer Fundamentals 4:15 PM–5:00 PM

Challenger 2:00 PM–4:00 PM

THEATRE

JCCS 1:00 PM–3:00 PM 3:00 PM–5:00 PM

Spotlight on... 4:30 PM–6:00 PM

JCCS 4:30 PM–6:30 PM

Stage Kids 4:30 PM–5:15 PM

Children K–5 Childcare KidZone After School Program

K–5 Gr

KidZone provides a safe and nurturing place where kids continue to learn and grow supervised homework help, gym and outdoor activities, healthy snacks, games and art projects.

After School Transportation

K–8 Gr

Need transportation from school to your afternoon classes? We provide KidZone staff to transport your child from school to the J with supervised care until their after school class begins, plus a healthy snack and access to the supervised homework room.

Kids Nite Out

Minnows

4–11 Yrs

Goldfish

4–11 Yrs

For children who can swim unassisted 10 yards on front and float on back on their own Children will learn front crawl, back crawl, elementary backstroke, treading water and water safety skills.

For children who can swim 25 yards, front crawl, back crawl, elementary backstroke, tread water for one minute and are comfortable in deep water Children will learn breaststroke, beginning butterfly, diving and will work on stroke refinement and swimming endurance. This class will also prepare swimmers for the next level – swim team.

K–5 Gr

Hang out with other children, participate in games, work on art projects, spend time in the gymnastics gym and enjoy a movie at the end of a great Saturday night! Activities vary at each event, and advanced registration is required.

Winter Break Camp

K–5 Gr

Spring Break Camp

K–5 Gr

Winter Break Camp follows HISD’s winter break schedule and will feature Happy Days, gymnastics, tennis, theatre, dance or sports camp options and will include gym time, swimming and much more!

We will offer a week long camp to include Happy Days: Spring Break Edition, Gymnastics, Tennis and more that coincides with HISD’s Spring Break.

Children's Aquatics SWIM ACADEMY GROUP LESSONS

6–30 Mos

Parent-child class designed to promote water safety knowledge and practices and help develop swimming readiness by leading parents and children in water exploration activities. The objective is to have fun and become comfortable in, on and around the water.

Starfish

2 Yrs

For the beginner who is ready to begin swimming independently Children will learn basic water skills including safe water entry and exit, blowing bubbles, breath control, floating, combined arm and leg action. Both disposable diaper and reusable swim diapers are required to be worn by all students under 3 years.

Guppies

3–6 Yrs

For children with little or no water experience Children will learn water adjustment, breath control, floating, basic arm movements and kicking on front and back and water safety skills. Both disposable diaper and reusable swim diapers are required to be worn by all students under 3 years. 6

All private instruction MUST be pre-scheduled prior to registration. For instructor matching, please call 713.595.8165 or complete our online request form.

Adapted Aquatic (Special Needs)

Potential students must be evaluated by one of our Lead Instructors to determine if they are ready for swim lessons – call 713.595.8165.

Infant Parent Aquatics Program

SWIM ACADEMY PRIVATE INSTRUCTION

(See p. 15 for details)

Private Swim Lessons Youth/Teens/Adults

Private lessons offer flexible one-on-one instruction for all ages. Lessons are scheduled and planned at the swimmer’s skill level and availability and range from learn-to-swim, stroke technique development to post-rehabilitation training.

Semi Private Swim Lessons Youth/Teens/Adults

Min 2/Max 3 Flexible swim lessons can be scheduled at your convenience.

SWIM TEAMS

Stroke Development Program

5+ Yrs

Learn all four strokes, improve technique and mechanics and learn to make swimming easier in our pre-competitive program. Your child must be water safe and able to swim the length of the pool independently on their front and back without stopping.

Coog Aquatics Swim Team

5-18 Yrs

Coog Swim Team is a year-round team that practices at the Merfish Center heated pool throughout the school year. Ongoing yearly registration at coogaquatics.org.

For dates, times and prices, or to register online visit erjcchouston.org | Questions – email us at programs@erjcchouston.org

Children’s Art

Children’s Dance

Ceramics: Clay Class

K-2 Gr

Ceramics: Clay Class

3-5 Gr

Children will be introduced to the basics of clay handbuilding, learn to work in both two and three dimensions and make work that is functional and sculptural. They will gain experience in pinch, coil, and slab construction, slump molds and assemblage.

Create fun sculptures and functional ware out of clay. We will delve into the very basics of clay hand-building construction using a combination of pinch, coil and slab techniques using surface techniques, slump molds and stamps to create imaginative forms ranging from sculptural to functional.

Visual Art

K–5 Gr

Drawing and Painting

2–5 Gr

Have fun exploring the world of visual art! Learn about, color, composition, form, line, texture and values while exploring a variety of artistic mediums in two and three dimensions.

Learn how to draw and paint trees, skies, clouds, cats, dogs and people. Then learn how to mix color and paint them too!

Toddler Dance

2–3 Yrs

Dancing Tots

2½-3 Yrs

Parent and child class Music, movement, balance and basic dance steps are introduced in this fun, friendly, and positive class for our youngest dancers. Parents or caregivers participate with the child, taking an active role in encouraging, supporting and keeping our tiny dancers on task.

Children develop creativity in movement, coordination and selfesteem in a non-competitive environment. Learn the fundamentals of movement in a fun way.

Dancing 3½s – 4s

3½-4 Yrs

Pre-Ballet

4½-5 Yrs

In this introduction to movement with music, students develop skills needed to work in a group dynamic, listen actively and follow directions. Classes are designed as structured play, using imagery and imagination to explore movement and develop gross motor skills.

Introduces preschool ages to basic ballet vocabulary and technique in a structured yet fun setting. Simple coordination, musicality, rhythm and concentration will be emphasized.

PreBallet/Tap

K-1 Gr

Ballet/Jazz/Tap I

1-2 Gr

Students continue to develop classroom etiquette and body and spatial awareness skills. Classes balance work with fun as rhythm studies, folk dances and exercises for balance are added to the curriculum along with an introduction to basic tap steps.

One year previous experience for ballet and tap Jazz, no experience necessary This great combo class brings together three disciplines: ballet, jazz and tap. Students continue to build in their development of ageappropriate exercise promoting body alignment, posture and stretching.

Ballet/Jazz/Tap IA

2–3 Gr

Ballet I

3–5 Gr

Ballet II

4–7 Gr

One to two years of previous experience in ballet, tap and jazz required A combo class studying ballet, jazz and tap while focusing on correct technique and terminology. Ballet with jazz and tap alternating once a week.

This class is suitable for beginners and will cover the fundamentals of classical ballet technique. The importance of strength, flexibility, rhythm, musicality and memorization will be stressed.

Two to three years previous experience in ballet required Students will gain a more complete understanding of ballet technique. Emphasis will be placed on proper technique and alignment and increasing strength and flexibility. For dates, times and prices, or to register online visit erjcchouston.org | Questions – email us at programs@erjcchouston.org

Jazz/Hip Hop I

3–5 Gr

An age-appropriate introduction to jazz dance and hip-hop. Classes are upbeat and high energy with stretching, isolations, rhythms, musicality and basic footwork.

Jazz/Hip Hop I A

4–6 Gr

One year previous experience in jazz/hip-hop recommended This class teaches the fundamentals of jazz and hip-hop movement. It includes a warm-up with stretches, isolations, strengthening exercises, moving across the floor and choreography.

Jazz/Hip Hop I B

5–7 Gr

Two to three years previous experience recommended This fun and energetic class includes a warm-up, center technique, across the floor patterns and a final combination for developing strength. Funky footwork will be incorporated.

Jazz I

2-4 Gr

Modern I

3–5 Gr

A fun and energetic class that includes warm-up with stretching, isolations, strengthening exercises and then moves across the floor to work on turns, leaps and jumps.

Suited for young, growing minds and bodies, this class puts a fun and imaginative twist on modern technique. Emphasis is placed on alignment, balance, strength and flexibility to enhance proper technique.

Contemporary Dance

4–7 Gr

Contemporary Dance is a style of expressive dance that combines elements of several dance genres including modern, jazz, lyrical and classical ballet.

JCREW

4–8 Gr

Requirement: One Jazz/Hip Hop class during the week with Sunday rehearsals Audition on Sunday, August 27 from 3:15 PM-4:30 PM (RSVP at 713.551.7217) for our new youth dance company for students with experience in hip hop, jazz or contemporary dance. We’ll provide training as you learn choreography from emerging and established artists which you’ll perform at the J and around the city.

Hip Hop/Tap for Boys Only

1–3 Gr

A hip hop and tap class designed especially for BOYS! Basic tap and hip hop moves will be taught with lots of energy and enthusiasm.

Broadway Dance

3-6 Gr

This fast-paced class will introduce students to the two major styles of musical theatre dance – tap and jazz. Students will learn the fundamentals of each dance style and hone basic dance technique - a must for musical theatre.

Children’s Fitness Braeswood Kids Tri Training Program

5-14 Yrs

Whether your child is a seasoned triathlete or thinking about a first race, this program is a great preparation tool. Through the training program, we will improve swim skills, increase endurance biking and running, teach children about transition, healthy eating for athletes and overall race day preparation.

Children’s Gymnastics Diaper Daredevils

Crawling-Walking

Parent and child explore a fun world together in our state-ofthe-art gymnastics facility and enjoy an introduction to physical play promoting coordination, balance and strength. It’s a fantastic way to improve motor skills and cognitive awareness.

Tiptoe Toddlers

Walking-2 ½ Yrs

Parent and child explore educational and physical surroundings that stimulate the senses, cognitive abilities and challenge physical movement in this time-tested program. We focus on spatial awareness, locomotor skills, fun and exploration for you and your child.

Mighty Munchkins

2½-3½ Yrs

Kindernastics

3½–4½ Yrs

Cartwheel Kids

4½–5½ Yrs

Red Hots

3½–5½ Yrs

It's time for your child to explore the fun benefits of a positive gymnastics environment all by themselves. We combine expert instructors with the finest gymnastics and play equipment to give your child a valuable experience in basic movement, hand/ eye coordination, spatial awareness and beginning gymnastics activities. This beginner class mixes great instruction, positive encouragement and exciting fun with activities based upon proven gymnastics techniques and methodology. You will see your child gain confidence in themselves and develop a love of gymnastics and overall physical activity. This beginner class mixes great instruction, positive encouragement and exciting fun with activities based upon proven gymnastics techniques and methodology. You will see your child gain confidence in themselves and develop a love of gymnastics and overall physical activity. Instructor approval required For those children who want to advance to our gymnastics teams someday, Red Hots is your class! This twice-a-week program centers on age-appropriate gymnastics training including skill development, strength and flexibility work and a whole lot of positive fun.

Boys Bronze (Beg)

5+ Yrs

Introductory classes designed to keep ages together as much as possible so that the student can learn the basics of gymnastics while enjoying the company of their friends. The basics include, but are not limited to: rolls, handstands, inverted skills, cartwheels, body awareness, safety and fitness. 8

For dates, times and prices, or to register online visit erjcchouston.org | Questions – email us at programs@erjcchouston.org

Girls Bronze (Beg)

5+ Yrs

Boys Silver (Beg-Int)

1 Gr & Up

This class is for the student who has some gymnastics training and is ready for intermediate type skills and beginning routines. Emphasizing fun and participation, this class keeps the student progressing towards the harder gymnastics skills.

Girls Silver (Beg-Int)

1 Gr & Up

Children’s Jewish Education Hebrew & Jewish Explorers

K–2 Gr

An innovative after-school program in Jewish education that any child in grades K-2 can participate in regardless of denominational affiliation. All classes will be taught in a fun, active and developmentally appropriate way.

JEWISH EXPLORERS

Weekly, hour-long Jewish enrichment program where students travel through time, space, and tradition to learn about the joys of Jewish living.

HEBREW EXPLORERS

Weekly, half hour–long, Hebrew enrichment.

Girls Gold (Int-Adv)

First Hebrew Songs

0-5 Yrs

Musical Babies

0-5 Yrs

2 Gr & Up

Must be recommended by a staff member Students who make it to this level are at the top of our recreational program, and members of our Junior Team are often chosen from this level. This level has an open-ended curriculum that includes walkovers, back handsprings on floor, cartwheels on beam and more advanced routine work.

Girls Junior Team

K Gr & Up

Must be recommended by a staff member Training to compete in a tough sport like gymnastics takes a lot of hard work, dedication, patience and determination, and this group is just the place to get ready for the competition! Making sure every skill is just right and developing great strength and flexibility takes a lot of time.

Bronze Rec. Trampoline & Tumbling

K-3 Gr

For the student who wants to concentrate on developing just their trampoline and tumbling skills. This class develops air sense, body awareness, conditioning and leg strength among many basic trampoline skills.

Silver Rec. Trampoline & Tumbling

3 Gr & Up

Trampoline & Tumbling Jr Team Development

1 Gr & Up

Children’s Music A fun music and movement class for babies, toddlers and their caregivers. Special bonds will be created by singing and dancing to everything from classic childhood songs in Hebrew to modern Israeli songs.

A fun music and movement class for babies, toddlers and their caregivers. Come spend quality time bonding with your child over music, dancing, playing instruments, singing and much more.

Tiny Tunes

PreK-2 Gr

An introduction to all things music! Students will explore rhythm, tempo and movement and experiment with a variety of musical instruments.

Rhythmic Kids

3-6 Gr

This class offers students a well-rounded study of many musical styles. Children will learn to create music on a variety of musical instruments and come together to compose original work.

This class is for the student who wants to concentrate on developing just their trampoline and tumbling skills and take them to the next level. This class develops air sense, body awareness, conditioning and leg strength among many basic trampoline skills.

This development team program is for the student who wants to concentrate on developing just their trampoline and tumbling skills. This class develops air sense, body awareness, conditioning and leg strength among many basic trampoline skills.

Gymnastic Superstars (see p. 15 for details)

Special Needs

For dates, times and prices, or to register online visit erjcchouston.org | Questions – email us at programs@erjcchouston.org

Lyrical Voices

1-5 Gr

Piano Lessons

5+ Yrs

Guitar Lessons

6+ Yrs

This class is a great introduction for young singers. Students will expand their vocal range and learn proper singing technique in a positive group environment.

The goal of the course is not only to develop a solid musical foundation in piano, which will greatly assist in the future pursuit of any musical instrument in any style, but most importantly to instill in the student a genuine love and appreciation for music.

Private and group instruction available Students will thrive in a fun environment where they will be exposed to a variety of styles including rock, blues, country, and classical genres. Learn how to read music, proper left – and right-hand technique, chords and strumming for song accompaniment.

Ukulele Lessons

6+ Yrs

Private and group instruction available Learn all about this bright little instrument and its proper strumming technique. Students will practice scales and chords and eventually move up to play melodies and songs that speak to them.

Voice Lessons

6+ Yrs

All private instruction must be scheduled prior to registration. Please contact Eva De La Cruz at edelacruz@erjcchouston.org or 832.408.3524 For the student who is ready to take their singing skills to the next level, we offer private voice lessons. A voice instructor will develop the student’s unique sound and help to create a repertoire of songs that can be used for upcoming auditions and competitions.

Children’s Sports & Recreation Meyerland Soccer at the J

3-16 Yrs

Provides a healthy environment for recreational and competitive youth soccer through volunteer coaches that build self-confidence, teach self-discipline, model responsible citizenship and promote good sportsmanship. Fee includes jersey, shorts and socks with practices one day a week and games on Sundays.

Youth Basketball Foundation Class

PreK-6 Gr

Sports Hour

PreK-6 Gr

Soccer Fundamentals

PreK-8 Gr

For all levels Children will learn the fundamental concepts of basketball with a focus on technique through clinics that subsequently build on each other, helping them to gradually increase their basic skills. Participants will be grouped according to skill levels. Participants will be exposed to a multitude of sports as we learn the rules and basic skills that apply to each game. Great introduction to the concept of team sports as well as individual skill development. For all levels Learn the fundamental concepts of soccer, focusing on various techniques including dribbling, passing and shooting. Each class will build on the other, helping children to gradually increase these basic skills.

Taekwondo

PreK-12 Gr

The focus of this course is to develop your child's character and abilities. Through this Taekwondo program, Master Moriah will infuse martial arts as a tool to mentally, emotionally and physically take your child from beginner to black belt.

Youth Volleyball

3-12 Gr

Coach Michael has been giving private lessons to children of all ages for over 18 years. Through his program, your child will work to master the basics of volleyball which are the key building blocks to becoming a great athlete in any sport.

Pickleball and Table Tennis (See p. 23 for details)

Sport Stars Basketball & Soccer (See p. 15 for details)

10 For dates, times and prices, or to register online visit erjcchouston.org | Questions – email us at programs@erjcchouston.org

Special Needs

Children’s Tennis Tiny Stars

3–4 Yrs

10 & Under Tennis

5–10 Yrs

Your child's first tennis experience establishes a foundation for hand-eye coordination, basic movement, listening skills, team cooperation and athletic tennis skills. It's a fun-filled introduction to the great lifetime sport of tennis.

RED BALL

In this class, students are divided by age and ability, with a focus on introductory rallying skills and beginning stages of cooperative tennis. Students learn how to initiate a rally, move and judge a ball and racquet control.

ORANGE BALL

This class is for 10 and under players that already have the basic fundamentals and are already competing in orange ball tournaments. Players will work on technical and tactical improvement through pro-fed, live ball and match play.

GREEN BALL

Requires instructor approval This class is for our more advanced 10 and under players that already have the basic fundamentals and are already competing in tournaments. Players will work on technical and tactical improvement through pro-fed, live ball and match play.

Children’s Theatre Theater Tots

3–4 Yrs

Stage Kids

K Gr

An introduction to the world of imaginative play. Children get comfortable with their bodies and voices through confidencebuilding and creative role-playing activities.

A beginner theater class for young students looking for a place to let their imagination run free. This class will focus on the creativity of storytelling and teach basic theater concepts and games.

Spotlight on…

1-2 Gr

JCCS Presents...

3-6 Gr

This class allows aspiring performers to develop their skills in the three core areas of musical theatre – acting, singing and dancing. Each semester will feature a different musical revue theme, and will showcase songs from popular Broadway shows.

Our flagship performing program, JCCS offers students the opportunity to be a part of a large-scale musical production each fall and spring. Students experience the entire theatrical process – from auditions and casting, to rehearsals and tech – and come together to create a fully realized production on the Kaplan Stage.

FALL PRODUCTION: CATS

The Jellicle Cats come out to play on the night of the special Jellicle Ball. One by one, they tell their stories in the hopes that they will be chosen to ascend to The Heaviside Layer and be reborn into a whole new life.

SPRING PRODUCTION: SEUSSICAL, JR.

Horton the Elephant, the Cat in the Hat, and all of your favorite Dr. Seuss characters spring to life in this fantastical musical extravaganza. The colorful characters transport us from the Jungle of Nool to the Circus McGurkus to the invisible world of the Whos.

Voice Lessons

(See p. 10 for details)

For dates, times and prices, or to register online visit erjcchouston.org | Questions – email us at programs@erjcchouston.org

6+ Yrs

Teens

Teen Aquatics

Teen Programs

Private Swim Lessons

Youth/Teens/Adults

Semi Private Swim Lessons

Youth/Teens/Adults

Private lessons offer flexible one-on-one instruction for children, teens, adults and seniors. Lessons are scheduled and planned at the swimmers skill level and availability and range from learnto-swim, stroke technique development to post-rehabilitation training.

Min 2/Max 3 Flexible swim lesson can be scheduled at your convenience.

For instructor matching, please contact Piasha VanTho at pvantho@erjcchouston.org or fill out our online request form.

Coog Aquatics Swim Team (See p. 6 for details)

Up to 18 Yrs

American Red Cross Lifeguard Training Certification

15+ Yrs

American Red Cross Lifeguard Training Re-Certification

15+ Yrs

Min 2 Learn the skills and knowledge required to become a certified lifeguard and keep others safe in and around aquatics facilities. Includes CPR/First Aid/AED Training.

Houston Connect 68

6–8 Gr

Houston Connect 68 is a fun, safe community program which offers exciting social opportunities for middle school students in the Houston area. Bring friends and enhance the fun and excitement.

J-Serve

9–12 Gr

Provides a refresher course to get an American Red Cross ReCertification covering AED, adult, child, infant CPR, first aid and lifeguarding. This class is appropriate for athletic trainers, lifeguards and healthcare providers.

Sunday, April 15, 2018 This International Day of Jewish Youth Service provides teens with the opportunity to fulfill the Jewish values of gemilut chasidim, acts of loving kindness; tzedakah, just and charitable giving; and Tikkun Olam, the responsibility to repair the world. Get involved in J-Serve and make a difference in Houston!

Teen Dance

J Teen Art Scene

(See p. 17 for details)

8-12 Gr

Sunday, February 25, 2018 Join us as we celebrate Jewish teen art from around the community with a month-long visual arts exhibit that kicks off with a Grand Opening Showcase in February. Submit art and performance applications online at erjcchouston.org/jteen.

Merfish Teen Center

The Merfish Teen Center, located at 9000 S. Rice Avenue, is open! Come by after school to hang out and do homework in our seating lounge or café tables or play basketball in our covered courts. Wi-Fi accessible.

JCC Maccabi Games® and ArtsFest®

An amazing event where thousands of Jewish teens meet, compete and have a great time, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Tryouts and auditions take place in the winter culminating in a week long road trip to a different host city each August.

Children’s Dance Classes

6-8 Gr

Teen/Adult Dance Classes

9 Gr & Up

(See p. 7 for details)

Teen Fitness & Sports Meyerland Soccer at the J

Up to 16 Yrs

Teen/Adult Gymnastics

15+ Yrs

Pickleball and Table Tennis

All Ages

Sport Stars Basketball, Soccer & Gymnastics Superstars

Special Needs

(See p. 10 for details)

(See p. 23 for details)

(See p. 15 for details)

12 For dates, times and prices, or to register online visit erjcchouston.org | Questions – email us at programs@erjcchouston.org

Teen Music

Teen Theatre

Private and Group Piano, Guitar, Ukulele and Voice Lessons

6-12 Gr

Tuneful Teens

6-9 Gr

(See p. 10 for details)

This class works to further develop singers’ vocal technique and range. Singers will be exposed to many different types of songs and musical styles, and learn to harmonize within a group.

Teen Tennis All Stars

11–18 Yrs

Challenger

11–18 Yrs

For all levels Refine technique and tactical skills on a full-sized court with ball control exercises that improve consistency, direction and depth will be enhanced. Appropriate for students focused on school team play or competitive tournaments.

Director approval required Program designed for players that are striving to play competitive tennis through the USTA and/or school tennis. Players will be focusing on stroke refinement, tactical and match strategies and fitness. Players must demonstrate a playing ability and commitment to improve.

Elite JTA

Must currently have 12 points or higher in USTA’s Challenger tournaments or director approval Designed for players that are looking to earn state and national rankings through USTA tournament play. Players will learn point construction through specific match play scenarios.

Teen Theatre Presents...

7–12 Gr

For the show-ready teen, we offer the opportunity to perform in full-scale musical productions in the Kaplan Theatre each fall and spring. Students experience the entire theatrical process – from auditions and casting, to rehearsals, tech and performances.

FALL PRODUCTION: THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE

An eclectic group of six teenagers vie for the spelling championship of a lifetime. While candidly disclosing hilarious and touching stories from their home lives, the students spell their way through a series of ever-challenging words, hoping never to hear the soul-crushing "ding" of the bell.

SPRING PRODUCTION: FINIAN’S RAINBOW

Finian McLonergan and his daughter, Sharon, emigrate from Ireland to the town of Rainbow Valley in the mythical state of Missitucky. Finian is intent on burying a pilfered pot of gold, which he believes will grow and multiply – that is, unless Og the leprechaun can get to it first.

For dates, times and prices, or to register online visit erjcchouston.org | Questions – email us at programs@erjcchouston.org

New BAS Playground Now Complete! The playground is reserved for BAS children MondayFriday. Available to members on weekends. Enter at south side of playground, near south end of BAS building, or from the doors in between the gymnastics and preschool gymnastics facilities.

Special Events Oy Vey! 5k Family Fun Run

All Ages

Mother/Son Hanukkah Cooking Class

All Ages

Sunday, September 17, 2017 | 7:00 AM-10:00 AM This community event in the heart of Meyerland will include a 5k family run along with a 1k kids run beginning and ending at Godwin Park. There will also be a post-race event with food, vendors and entertainment for families.

Sunday, December 10, 2017 | 2:00 PM Mothers and sons are invited to prepare for Hanukkah celebrations while cooking some holiday family favorites and enjoying some quality bonding time. Enjoy making latkes with carrots and delicious glitterball cookies!

Winter Break Bash

Family Engagement Ongoing Programs Mishpacha & Me

Families with Children 0–5 Yrs

Jewish Experiences for Young Children & Families

Celebrate Judaism with us through creative family activities all over town. Ongoing programs include Open Gym on Tuesdays and Tot Shabbat on Fridays.

Shabbatify

Families with Children K–5 Gr

We bring together elementary school families for meaningful and fun-filled Shabbat and Sunday afternoons, with activities for kids and parents to enjoy both as a family and separately.

Braeswood Kids Tri Training Program (See p. 8 for details)

5-14 Yrs

0 Yrs-Gr 3

Tuesday, December 25, 2017 Join puppeteer Ora Fruchter and musician Yoshie Fruchter for a rollicking sing a-long, for ages 0-PreK. Entertainment with music and puppets for grades K–3 will follow separately.

Daddy Daughter Dance

All Ages

Saturday, February 10, 2018 | 7:00 PM-9:00 PM Dads and daughters: make memories at our special evening filled with dancing, friends and refreshments. Uncles, grandpas and all the other special men in the lives of their lovely little ladies are invited.

Community-Wide Yom Ha’atzmaut Israel @ 70 Independence Day Celebration

Thursday, April 19, 2018 | 4:30 PM-7:00 PM We will come together as a community to celebrate Israel @ 70! Programs for all ages available.

Dor L’Dor

Grandparent–Grandchild Events

Create special memories with your grandchild with mitzvah projects, Judaic crafts, games, cooking and more! A schedule of upcoming events is available at erjcchouston.org/dorldor.

14 For dates, times and prices, or to register online visit erjcchouston.org | Questions – email us at programs@erjcchouston.org

Special Needs

Adapted Aquatic

Karol Musher STARS Early Childhood Intervention Program

Combines multi-disciplinary therapeutic intervention and preschool inclusion support to promote the growth and individual potential of preschoolers with developmental delays. Children with disabilities and developmental delays learn and gain skills alongside peers in a NAEYC-accredited general education setting.

Gymnastic Superstars

3 Yrs & Up

Shadow could be required for class participation Parent and child explore a fun world together in the gym and enjoy an introduction to physical play promoting coordination, balance and strength. Improves motor skills and cognitive awareness and is an excellent way for children with special needs to develop and interact with challenging activities and friends.

Sport Stars Soccer

4-22 Yrs

Sport Stars Basketball

4-22 Yrs

All Ages

For those who require individualized swim instruction and/or adaptive equipment and taught by a specially trained and experienced instructor. Lessons are customized for each student to teach water safety, functional and recreational swimming skills with the goal of progressing through the American Red Cross Learn-to-Swim Levels.

Nite Owls

Adult

Open to all special needs adults in the community Activities include arts & crafts, athletics, cooking, yoga, Jewish and secular holiday celebrations and field trips. The program allows families of group members to interact and form a support network.

A community-based training program for young athletes with disabilities designed to provide the opportunity of learning and playing soccer. Organized by J staff with professional coaches and volunteers for children with special needs who require specific modifications to the game.

Learn basketball skills in a fun, friendly and non-competitive environment with a focus on fundamentals such as ball handling skills, drills, and offense and defense. Organized by J staff with professional coaches and volunteers for children with special needs who require specific modifications to the game.

For dates, times and prices, or to register online visit erjcchouston.org | Questions – email us at programs@erjcchouston.org

Adult Wellness Adult Aquatics ADULT LEARN TO SWIM

SWIM ACADEMY PRIVATE INSTRUCTION All private instruction MUST be pre-scheduled prior to registration. Please call 713.595.8165.

Adapted Aquatic (Special Needs) (See p. 15 for details)

Private Swim Lessons

Youth/Teens/Adults

Semi Private Swim Lessons

Youth/Teens/Adults

Private lessons offer flexible one-on-one instruction for children, teens, adults and seniors. Lessons are scheduled and planned at the swimmers skill level and availability and range from learn-to-swim, stroke technique development to post-rehabilitation training.

Min 2/Max 3 Flexible swim lesson can be scheduled at your convenience. For instructor matching, please contact Piasha VanTho at pvantho@erjcchouston.org or fill out our online request form.

SWIM TEAM Masters Swim Team

Included with Health, Sports & Fitness Membership

Our adult learn to swim program is a structured program to promote water safety, stroke technique and personal fitness. The classes are broken up to gradually build your confidence, swim skills and fitness in the water. This is the right program for you if: • You have a fear of the water • You don’t know the swimming strokes • You can swim for a short distance but get exhausted

Level 1 Water Adjustment & Basic Skills

For swimmers with little to no experience Become comfortable in the water by eliminating anxiety and tension so you can concentrate on learning the basics. You will learn to float, glide and swim on your front and back for a short distance in shallow water.

Level 2 Beginner

For beginning swimmers who are comfortable in the water Develop your skills from Level 1 by learning a more advanced level of floating, swimming the length of the pool and incorporating side breathing. After this class you should feel confident in swimming for fitness.

18+ Yrs

The Master Swim Program partnership with the J and the Coog US Masters Swim Team is in high gear. Practices will be at the Merfish Teen Center at 9000 S. Rice. Learn more and register at coogaquatics.org.

WATER FITNESS

Free for Fitness Center members

Deep Water Fitness

Adult

Water Fitness

Adult

An up-tempo, energetic, total body workout that improves stamina, muscular strength, range of motion and core stability. Water exercise is a great compliment to any fitness routine, and you get a great overall workout without the stress to your joints. An energizing and vigorous workout done in shallow and deep water.

Senior Water Fitness

55+ Yrs

A moderate tempo, low impact exercise program that will improve aerobic fitness, range of motion and coordination. This class is perfect for those with arthritis, fibromyalgia, low back pain or individuals that find weight bearing exercise difficult.

16 For dates, times and prices, or to register online visit erjcchouston.org | Questions – email us at programs@erjcchouston.org

Adult Dance

Tap III

Adult

For the experienced tapper This upbeat and fast-paced class is structured in the traditional tap format: warm-up exercises, technique and progressive movements, combinations and dance routines. The Tap III class will help tappers prepare to move into the Golden Girl + One Tappers Performing Group - details below.

Golden Girl + One Tappers Performing Group

55+ Yrs

Come take a class with us on Monday, August 28 at 1:00 PM to audition for a spot in the performing group. RSVP to the director, Michelle Schroeder, at msdancegal@gmail.com or 713.805.8487.

Tap Class with Tony Merriwether

Teen/Adult

Contemporary I

Teen/Adult

Jazz I

Teen/Adult

Lindy Hop

Teen/Adult

Modern I

Teen/Adult

Line Dancing

55+ Yrs

Tony Merriwether, a Tap dancer, instructor and choreographer whose credits include international and domestic tours with Emmy and Tony-award winning performances, will teach this intermediate tap class.

Ballet I

Teen/Adult

For students with little or no previous training Experience formal structured classical ballet barré, center and floorwork. This class will be an introduction to formal classical ballet.

Ballet II

Teen/Adult

For the beginner/intermediate level student with 2-3 years previous training in ballet

A continuation of structured classical barre, center and floorwork for the intermediate to advanced level student.

Ballet III

Teen/Adult

For the intermediate to advanced level student with four years previous training in ballet

Students will gain a more complete understanding of ballet technique. Emphasis will be placed on proper technique and alignment and increasing strength, flexibility, rhythm, and musicality

Tap I

Teen/Adult

For the student with little to no experience Designed for new students to learn the basic steps and vocabulary of tap dance. This class is a great way to learn the FUNdamental skills needed to join our Tap II tap class or "brush up on the basics."

Tap II

Adult

For students with a solid basic knowledge of tap or who have participated in an Intro or Tap I course Continue learning tap techniques through warm-ups, combinations and a dance routine to develop a deeper understanding of rhythm and musicality. Excellent choice for dancers with just a few years’ experience.

This class consists of many genres like modern, lyrical and ballet mixed together for creative movement and performance. This class is energetic and fun, consisting of unique moves, fancy footwork, big leaps and turns. Lindy Hop is an American dance that evolved in Harlem, New York City, in the 1920s and 1930s and originally evolved with the jazz music of that time.

Contemporary (Modern) is a style of expressive dance that stresses versatility and improvisation and combines elements of several dance genres including modern, jazz, lyrical and classical ballet. Pioneers of contemporary dance include Isadora Duncan, Martha Graham and Merce Cunningham.

No dance experience or partner required Come dance for fun, fitness and join the line dance craze; it’s not just “Country Line Dancing” but great music and dances from various genres. Learning different dance patterns and recalling them is fabulous mental exercise.

Israeli Folk Dance

For all levels Join us every Tuesday evening for an upbeat evening of dance and a taste of Israeli culture. These open dance sessions include instruction and review of classics along with today’s most popular Israeli folk dances, including couples and line dances.

Complete wedding prep, private lessons and group lessons available. For information email msilberstein@erjcchouston.org.

For dates, times and prices, or to register online visit erjcchouston.org | Questions – email us at programs@erjcchouston.org

Adult Fitness & Mind/Body

Tai Chi * Adult

Fitness, Mind/Body and Active Adults

• Fitness, Mind/Body and Active Adult group exercise classes are open to adult Health, Sports & Fitness members 18 years of age and older. • Members aged 13-17 are welcome to take group fitness classes with parental consent. Please see the Fitness Center front desk for a consent form. • Some Fitness, Mind/Body and Active Adult group exercise classes are open to Program Members and members of the public. Please see our website for pricing details.

For those who have taken some Tai Chi An ancient Chinese system for making the body healthier and stronger with age, strengthening against bone loss, repairing injuries to the lower back and relieving stress. Tai Chi helps restore balance through a series of exercises using martial arts movements in a safe, gentle uninterrupted way.

We offer over 55 group exercise classes a week! Consider joining the Fitness Center to have free access to all of these classes as part of your membership. Classes include: BodyPump®, Core and More, Pilates, Group Strength, Yoga, Indoor Cycling, Zumba®, Senior Fitness and many more!

Group Exercise These classes are free for Fitness Center members unless otherwise noted by **. *Free for Fitness Center Members. Special pricing for Program Members and the public. **Special pricing available for all JCC members and public. Registration required. Minimum enrollment must be met for class to take place.

MIND/BODY Pilates Mat*

Adult

Pilates builds a strong core through a series of mat exercises. Build longer, leaner muscles without bulk and develop your "core strength" by focusing on torso stabilization which strengthens the abdominals, hips and back muscles.

Pilates Reformer on the Mat*

Adult

Takes a repertoire of traditional reformer Pilates exercises and brings them to the mat. This classical mat-based hour ensures a high-level of conditioning and a body-weight workout.

Beginner/Gentle Yoga *

Adult

Explore and enjoy the wonderful benefits of yoga in a gentle way. Heal and strengthen the body and calm and refresh the mind through gentle stretching, conscious breathing and relaxation.

Hatha Yoga I*

Adult

Yoga Pila*

Adult

This ancient physical exercise uses classic asanas or postures, combined with Pranayama breathing and meditation techniques.

Gain strength, flexibility, balance and good posture while learning how to relax in this total mind-body workout. Incorporate the Pilates “powerhouse” workout, structured around the stomach, hips, buttocks and lower back.

ACTIVE ADULTS 60+ Prime Time Fitness*

60+ Yrs

Stay Young Through Fitness (SYTF)*

60+ Yrs

Hatha Yoga*

60+ Yrs

Add a little spring to your step with exercises that will help maintain and build cardiovascular health, strength, flexibility, coordination and endurance. Be ready for a mix of aerobics, light weights, core strength and an upbeat good time! A comprehensive fitness and wellness program for seniors focusing on range of motion, functional strength, cardiovascular fitness and balance. This routine can be done in a chair, wheelchair or standing.

Explore and enjoy the wonderful benefits of yoga in a gentle way. Heal and strengthen the body and calm and refresh the mind through gentle stretching, conscious breathing and relaxation.

18 For dates, times and prices, or to register online visit erjcchouston.org | Questions – email us at programs@erjcchouston.org

What the J Difference Could Do for You When you have a gem, it’s going to shine, and that’s exactly what 68-year-old Ellen Goren is doing at the J. Not to mention she is changing a few lives.

At 5 feet tall and 98 pounds, this feisty and energetic personal trainer and fitness class instructor can lift double her body weight, and her classes have been called words not fit for print. “When I first applied to teach a few classes, I was kind of intimidated. I thought, who is going to hire a 60+ year old woman to do personal training?” said Ellen. “Now I look at it differently. I think there are a lot of advantages and benefits for organizations to hire a trainer over the age of 60. A lot of my clients are older, and they feel that a 20-year-old trainer may not understand their issues.” What makes her story even more interesting is what she was doing just two years ago, sitting behind a desk as an executive level technology attorney for ExxonMobil, a profession she practiced for more than 35 years. “I was ready to retire from the practice of law, but someone once told me that it is important that you not retire from something, you want to retire to something,” said Ellen. “I started exercising when I was diagnosed with osteopenia (low bone density). I didn’t want to take drugs, so I found out what I could do naturally to build bone density. My doctor advised deadlifting and other load bearing exercises. I enjoyed it and realized I could create a viable second career through fitness.” When she started lifting weights five years ago, she could only lift 20 pounds. Today she can lift 200 pounds and is considering going for the record title in her age group at the National Power Lifting Association. Her classes include Barre Fusion, Pilates and Strength Training four times a week (Check our Group Exercise schedule for dates and times). She is skilled at helping her clients discover their deficits. And she is dedicated to helping them no matter what their fitness goal.

Ellen Goren leading one of her fitness classes. “Ellen inspires and instills confidence that you can do it,“ said 65-year-old Anita Mattis, who has been a member for more than 30 years. “I’ve always been active, I play tennis, I do BODYPUMP™ but I broke my shoulder about five years ago. I rehabbed it, but my balance was off. She has helped me surpass goals I didn’t know I could reach. I’m lifting 60 pounds now and that’s more than before I broke my shoulder. She inspires you.” Ellen has a busy schedule of group exercise classes and personal training clients here at the J. “I’m busier than I was when I was working, and it’s something I love. I don’t think I could ever go back to sitting behind a desk. I’m helping people on a personal level, and it's so rewarding for me.” 19

EVELYN RUBENSTEIN JCC HOUSTON

Live UpTM

The J Annual Fund Powered by Your Generosity 20â&#x20AC;&#x192;

The J Annual Fund is the fundraising effort that supports every member of our community. Your membership dues and program fees do not cover the full cost to fulfill the important mission of the J. When you give to the annual fund, you are supporting growth of innovative programs and ongoing services that benefit the entire Jewish and greater Houston community. To make a donation online, visit erjcchouston.org/annualfund.

programs and services such asâ&#x20AC;Ś J RIDE provides senior adults safe and reliable transportation for medical, personal care and grocery shopping ADULT CERAMICS AND PAINTING CLASSES give individuals the opportunity to explore their creative side SHABBATIFY brings together elementary school aged families to celebrate Shabbat and build community JCCS PRESENTS THEATRE PROGRAM builds selfconfidence and leadership skills in children JUDAIC LECTURES, FILMS AND CLASSES enrich the hearts and minds of community members AQUATICS teaches water safety skills and supports physical fitness for all ages

â&#x20AC;Śare able to grow and thrive.

For more information contact Anita Bormaster, Director of Annual Giving, at abormaster@erjcchouston.org or 713.595.8192.

P owered by Your G enerosity –

An Interview with the Baum/Dobbs Family Sandy Baum can remember riding his bike to the J as a boy; some 60 years later he and wife Susan are still active members. Their children, Nicole and Lindsay, grew up at the J attending summer camps and participating in JCC Maccabi Games® and Arts Fest®. Nicole married Jeff Dobbs, who also grew up at the J. Now the couple’s 4 year old daughter Devon is at Camp Bami, and 2 year old Dylan gets to come next year. This family has been calling the J home for a lifetime. What is your J Story? The JCC is their home away from home. Sandy (1st generation) grew up playing youth sports, then AZA sports, followed by adult sports all at the J, and now enjoys Pilates and water aerobics. Susan loves attending all the plays, Book Fair, community events, volunteering for J Meals on Wheels and group classes at the gym in the morning. But most of all, they love to take their grandchildren to Mishpacha & Me, Open Gym, toddler events and the splash pad. Their daughters, Nicole and Lindsay, attended camp and participated in extracurricular activities such as sports, art, theatre and dance as children. During their teenage years, Nicole and Lindsay joined BBYO, competed in JCC Maccabi and attended teen events. Nicole was a teen counselor for camp one summer. Jeff (son-in-law) attended camp and participated in sports growing up at the J. Grandchildren, Devon attends Bami Camp and Dylan is looking forward to attending next summer. Do you have a special or earliest memory of your interaction with the J? Sandy has been going to the J for about 60 years, since he could ride his bike to Hermann Dr. to play basketball and swim. He then continued at the new J for AZA with basketball and played softball at the old Seven Acres until the softball fields were built on Braeswood.

Bottom Row, Right to Left: Sandy, Dylan, Susan, Devon Top Row, Right to Left: Lindsay, Jeff, Nicole

What does a day at the J mean for you? A summer day: early morning, Sandy is doing water aerobics and hanging out in the locker room while Susan is attending a group exercise class. Then taking their grandson Dylan to the pool and watching granddaughter Devon having her swim lessons at camp. The 2nd generation is enjoying the exercise facility or swimming laps outside. In the evening, Susan will see a show or community event, or the family will watch their cousin perform in one of the amazing plays. What has been the most meaningful part of your involvement at the J? Watching each generation have a safe place for them to grow, learn and make friends. The J is a place for everyone in the family to enjoy, with so many different offerings for each stage of life. Why do you believe the J is an important place to support? We think it’s important for the Houston Jewish community to have a “home base.” As Devon sings, “My favorite place to be is at the JCC.”

To join others in powering the J Annual Fund, visit erjcchouston.org/annualfund or contact Anita Bormaster, Director of Annual Giving, at 713.595.8192. 22

Adult Gymnastics Adult Gymnastics

15+ Yrs

For all levels Designed for anyone over the age of 15 who would like to try gymnastics or revisit their gymnastics training of their youth. This is a great place to gain strength and flexibility while having fun with other students and learning new skills.

Ethical Foods Co-Op

Adult Sports & Recreation Pickleball

Youth/Teen/Adult

For all ages Pickleball is a racquet sport that combines elements of badminton, tennis and table tennis. The sport shares features of other racquet sports, the dimensions and layout of a badminton court, and a net and rules similar to tennis with a few modifications.

Table Tennis

18+ Yrs

Men’s Basketball League

18+ Yrs

Our full-service Table Tennis program with state-of-the-art equipment is for all players ages eight and up. Highlights of the program include open/challenge play, instructional classes, private lessons plus ladders, tournaments and exhibitions

35+ Division for adults 35 years or older Open Division for adults 18 years or older Eight-week recreational league plus two weeks of playoffs for the top four teams in each division. Most games are played on Monday nights, and teams are picked through a draft.

Women’s Basketball League

18+ Yrs

Women’s Basketball returns to the J! If you are a female hoopster, then lace ‘em up and join us for some ladies-only time on the court.

Krav Maga Alliance

Adult

Krav Maga (“contact combat” in Hebrew) is the official selfdefense system of the Israeli Defense Force (IDF). It was specifically designed to be easy to learn and remember under stress and is instinct and reality-based.

Practice shmirat haguf, taking care of our bodies, and being shomrei adamah, guardians of the earth, and enjoy fresh, organically and locally grown vegetables with our Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program with Johnson’s Backyard Garden or humanely raised kosher meat with Grow and Behold and Kol Foods.

Adult Tennis

Fundamentals of Tennis

Adult

Open to men and women Beginner course designed for participants who have not played tennis before or for players coming back to the game after many years.

Intermediate/Advanced Tennis Adult Open to men and women Designed for participants who have completed Fundamentals of Tennis or those with some playing experience. Get your game to the next level with stroke production, technique and strategy sessions. Complimentary Drill

Adult

Open to men and women Complimentary drill for Tennis Center members only; public considering Tennis Center membership may participate with director approval.

Tennis Boot Camp Adult Open to men and women - Min 3 Hi-intensity classes offering cross-training, conditioning, court movement, execution and footwork. Classes are specific to NTRP rating. Men’s In-House Doubles League

Adult

Priority to Tennis Center members; JCC members accepted on a space-available basis. Awards presented to champion and finalist.

Women’s In-House Doubles 3.0–4.0+ Leagues Adult Priority to Tennis Center members; JCC members and public accepted on a space-available basis. Awards presented to champion and finalist.

Women’s In-House Doubles Intro to Match Play 2.5+

Adult

Priority to Tennis Center members; JCC members and public accepted on a space-available basis. Participants have completed the Intermediate class or are currently taking lessons. For dates, times and prices, or to register online visit erjcchouston.org | Questions – email us at programs@erjcchouston.org

Adult Education

Advanced Drawing

Adult

For anyone who has taken the Beginning Drawing class Students chose a subject to draw and receive individual instruction on how to achieve that goal with friendly, gentle critiques along the way. Projects can be rendered in graphite, colored pencil, oil pastels or charcoal.

Beginning Painting

Adult

Studio Painting

Adult

Paint and Sip

Adult

For beginners or those who want a refresher class Learn about different mediums (oil, acrylic, and watercolor, etc.), tools and techniques, brushes, surfaces, color theory, mixing color, value scales in black and white and in color. Students will create a 16”x20” masterpiece using step-by-step techniques demonstrated by the instructor.

For all levels Students work at their own pace with their choice of subject and in their own style, exploring watercolor, gouache, acrylic and/ or oil. The teacher provides instruction, professional critiques and demonstrations and guided practice in various mediums as requested by students.

Paint and Sip is a great way to have fun with friends and make new ones! Bring a drink (BYOB optional) and a snack and our instructor will walk you, step by step, through a fun painting process.

Adult Music

Piano and Voice Lessons

(See p. 10 for details.)

Adult Art Ceramics

Adult

Beginning Wheel Throwing

Adult

Beginning Drawing

Adult

For students who have taken two beginner courses or are at an intermediate/advanced level This class is set up for students who have begun to develop a personal style and aesthetic in the medium of wheel or hand building. Participants will work independently on projects and with one-on-one instruction, helping them to master more advanced techniques.

Get your hands dirty while creating one-of-a-kind pieces as you master the techniques of working with clay on the potter's wheel. Beginners learn to throw bowls, plates and cups.

This dynamic course will give you the basic tools and tricks of the trade, allowing you to see better and draw exactly what you see. Composition, proportion, shading and much more are covered.

24 For dates, times and prices, or to register online visit erjcchouston.org | Questions – email us at programs@erjcchouston.org

Bobbi and Vic Samuels Center for Jewish Living & Learning

MELTON & MORE SCHOLARS PROGRAM 2017–2018

Turn It and Turn It: Studying the Weekly Torah Portion

The Melton & More Scholars Program features trimester-long courses that focus on specific topics related to Jewish identity, philosophy, history and culture. The Scholars courses include classes developed by the Melton School at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem as well as classes created by local rabbis and Jewish educators from a variety of denominational backgrounds.

Adult

Join us every Friday at noon for a weekly discussion of the Torah portion using both classic and modern commentaries. No knowledge of Hebrew is required.

TIME NO HOMEWORK. NO GRADES. KNOW JUDAISM.

MELTON CORE PROGRAM | 2017–2018 What is Melton

The Florence Melton School of Adult Jewish Learning is a sophisticated, text-based 2-year Jewish literacy program developed at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem that explores centuries of Jewish traditions, history, theology and ethics, in a pluralistic and thought-provoking classroom environment. The Melton Core Program consists of four courses taken over two years. TIME

COURSE

INSTRUCTOR

CORE CLASSES, MELTON YEAR ONE October 19, 2017–May 24, 2018

TRIMESTER 1 OCTOBER 16 – DECEMBER 21

TRIMESTER 2 JANUARY 8 – MARCH 8

MONDAYS – CONGREGATION EMANU EL MELTON! Jews in America 2 Ms. Nada Chandler

Kabbalah 101 Rabbi Dr. Danny Horwitz

MELTON! Jewish Mysticism Rabbi Annie Belford

MELTON! Book of Genesis 2 Rabbi Gideon Estes

9:00 AM – 10:00 AM

Our Matriarchs & Patriarchs 1 Ms. Mindeleah Pollak

Our Matriarchs & Patriarchs 2 Ms. Mindeleah Pollak

Ruth: GreatGrandmother of King David Ms. Mindeleah Pollak

10:15 AM – 11:15 AM

Sustainable Eating Ms. Nancy Pryzant Picus

Jewish Artists Dr. Bernice Heilbrunn Potvin

The Lives of Sephardic Jews Dr. Bernice Heilbrunn Potvin

7:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Ethical Mystics Rabbi Dr. Danny Horwitz

Jewish Artists Dr. Bernice Heilbrunn Potvin

Samuel the Prophet Ms. Gabi Gelman

7:00 PM – 8:30 PM

MELTON! Genesis 1 Rabbi Samantha Safran

MELTON! Genesis 2 Rabbi Jill Levy

MELTON! Star & Crescent Rabbi Steve Morgen

8:15 PM – 9:15 PM

Through a Jewish Lens Mr. Michael Duke

Jews of Poland Mr. Aaron Howard

A Journey Into the Siddur Cantor Mark Levine

9:30 AM – 10:30 AM

MELTON! Jews in America 1 Ms. Nada Chandler

TUESDAYS – WEST HOUSTON 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM

MELTON! Beyond Borders 2 Rabbi Dan Aronson

TUESDAYS – EVELYN RUBENSTEIN JCC

THURSDAY MORNINGS – MERFISH TEEN CENTER 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM

Purposes of Jewish Living

Rabbi Samantha Safran

10:45 AM – 11:45 AM

Rhythms of Jewish Living

Rabbi Jill Levy

CORE CLASSES, MELTON YEAR TWO October 19, 2017–May 24, 2018 THURSDAY MORNINGS – MERFISH TEEN CENTER 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM

Crossroads of Jewish Living

Cantor Mark Levine

10:45 AM – 11:45 AM

Ethics of Jewish Living

Ms. Nancy Pryzant Picus

YEAR ONE Purposes of Jewish Living

This course addresses the "why" of Jewish belief and behavior and delves into the big questions of life from a Jewish perspective.

THURSDAYS – MERFISH TEEN CENTER 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM

More Modern Jewish Authors Ms. Nada Chandler

Ethical Mystics Rabbi Dr. Danny Horwitz

Yiddishkeit Dr. Mina Graur

9:30 AM – 10:30 AM

Misunderstanding the Bible Rabbi David Segal

Becoming Americans Dr. Joshua Furman

Midrash Is The New Black Rabbi Jill Levy

10:45 AM – 11:45 AM

American Jewish Culture Rabbi Kenny Weiss

A Journey Into the Siddur Cantor Mark Levine

Jewish Artists Dr. Bernice Heilbrunn Potvin

10:45 AM – 12:15 PM

MELTON! Star & Crescent Rabbi Steve Gross

MELTON! Exodus 1 Rabbi Ranon Teller

MELTON! Exodus 2 Rabbi Samantha Safran

Rhythms of Jewish Living

This course focuses on the holidays, rites of passage, and daily rituals of Jewish tradition, using a wide variety of Jewish sources to discover the deeper meaning behind Jewish practice.

YEAR TWO Crossroads of Jewish History

This course defines periods in Jewish history and provides an understanding of how these crossroads have shaped Judaism and Jewish identity as we know it today.

Ethics of Jewish Living

This course provides an overview of how Jewish thinkers, ancient and contemporary, can shed light on the ethical issues of today.

TRIMESTER 3 March 19 – May 24

Additional courses available in the Woodlands and other locations. Visit erjcchouston.org/meltonandmore for more information.

American Jewish Culture

Explore American Jewish culture from Eastern European immigration through the present, examining popular materials and everyday practices that help illustrate how Jewish immigrants transformed themselves into American Jews.

MELTON! Genesis 2: The First Jewish Family

Follow the development of the first Jewish family. These stories of sibling rivalry, wrestling with an angel, palace seduction and reconciliation provide some of the most dramatic and iconic images that reverberate across the millennia.

Becoming Americans: The Jewish Immigrant Experience in America

Examine the forces that drove Jewish immigrants to American shores over the past three and a half centuries, discover the opportunities and challenges that America presented for new Jewish arrivals, and consider how this history informs our understanding of what it means to be and become Americans in the twenty-first century.

MELTON! Beyond Borders: The History of the Arab-Israeli Conflict, Part 2

A strong, text-based historical overview of the conflict from the late nineteenth century through today, continued from Part 1. Issues of religion, culture, history, politics, economics, identity and survival are reflected through primary sources designed to encourage discussion and debate.

Ethical Mystics

What did the classical Jewish teachers have to say about ethics, and how did Kabbalistic teachers build upon that framework? Learn valuable moral insights from the mystical texts of Safed as well as the Hasidic masters.

Marc Chagall, Amoureux de Vence

Jewish Artists: From Chagall to Rothko

Explore European and American Jewish painters and paintings of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Some documented the lives of the common man, some nostalgically recorded the traditions of their ancestors, others examined social issues and all made great contributions to the art world.

MELTON! Jewish Mysticism & Kabbalah

This course presents the rich history of Jewish mysticism, along with understandings of many of the texts that have been so central to that tradition, speaking to the deepest mysteries of human existence and to many of life’s eternal universal questions.

MELTON! Jews in America: Insiders and Outsiders, Parts 1 & 2

MELTON! Exodus 1: From Slavery to Sinai

This course brings us the Egyptian narrative of our people, the dramatic story of our rescue and survival in the wilderness. Leadership, bravery, faith and doubt define some of the critical moments in these texts and offer us a rich backdrop for challenging some of our own assumptions.

MELTON! Exodus 2: Revelation and Revolution

Follow the development of the emerging Jewish nation from the awe-inspiring encounter at Mount Sinai through the building of the tabernacle in the wilderness. Address some of the laws and regulations that were to become part of Jewish living as well as the meaning, purpose and relevance to our lives today.

MELTON! Genesis 1: From Adam to Abraham

The stories in this course take us from the creation of the world, the flood and the Tower of Babel to Abraham and Sarah and the beginnings of the Jewish people. Themes of faith, honor and dishonor, passion and power provide a rich exploration of these ancestral and universal tales.

Consider the challenges of Jewish acculturation to American life and the sacrifices and contributions that have been made over the past 200 years. Explore Anti-Semitism and the Holocaust, Zionism and the State of Israel, the Civil Rights Movement and other issues that address American and Jewish culture and identity.

Jews of Poland

By the middle of the 17th century, the Jewish community of Poland-Lithuania was the largest in the world - the center of the Ashkenazi tradition. Examine the relationship between Jews and Poles, the cultural legacy of Polish Jewry and the role Jews play in defining a post-Communist Poland.

A Journey Into the Siddur

The Siddur is a theological “tel”, a building of our peoples’ concerns and beliefs upon those of previous generations - an encounter with more than 3,000 years of Jewish living and thought, celebration and tragedy. Study the depth and brilliance of the Shabbat morning service via structure, history, and theology.

Kabbalah 101

For some Jews, it is not enough to pray to or understand God; they want to experience God. Find out how Jewish mysticism developed, what it taught, and how it changed the course of Jewish life.

26 For dates, times and prices, or to register online visit erjcchouston.org | Questions – email us at programs@erjcchouston.org

Lives of Sephardic Jews: After 1492

Study the descendants of Jewish women and men who fled Spain and Portugal, settled in distant lands and proudly maintained their identity and culture. From Amsterdam to Salonika, Cairo to Recife, London to Algiers, Sephardic Jews in Muslim and Christian lands have many stories to tell us.

Midrash Is the New Black

Through a Jewish Lens: Jewish Photojournalists of the 20th Century

It’s no coincidence that in the panoply of eminent photojournalists and social documentary photographers of the twentieth century, many of the standouts were Jewish. Study these greats and consider how each one used his or her talents to call public attention to issues of social justice and tikkun olam.

Comedy, drama and statements about the meaning of life all intersect in Midrash. Rabbi Jill will present her “top Midrashim of all time” with text based and facilitated discussion.

Misunderstanding the Bible

The Bible is the number one book that Americans like to pretend to have read. We'll tackle some common misconceptions, focusing on translation errors and some thorny interpretive problems using excerpts from the Hebrew Bible, as well as Joel Hoffman's book And God Said.

More Modern Jewish Authors

An examination of contemporary Jewish authors including Jonathan Safran Foer, Geraldine Brooks, Lauren Belfer, Judy Blume and Aharon Appelfeld. Because we are the people of the books, the class provides an opportunity to keep abreast of the latest works.

Our Matriarchs & Patriarchs: Their Special Relationships, Parts 1 & 2

Forget "Brangelina"…who were the IT couples of yesteryear in the period of the Torah? Let us travel through time as we learn about the special relationships of our Matriarchs and Patriarchs, what made each couple so unique, who really ran the show and wore the pants in the house.

Ruth: Great-Grandmother of King David

Study the great-grandmother of the Davidic dynasty—Ruth, who gives up her status as a Moabite princess and embarks on a journey to the land of Judah. She finds her own path of Judaism as she grows in faith and knowledge and teaches us what it means to be a sincere Jew.

Samuel the Prophet

Delve into this exciting and dramatic story which includes the rise of Samuel the prophet, the appointment of Saul as the first King of Israel and the escalating conflict between King Saul and David, all highlighting Israel's transition to a central authority.

MELTON! The Star and the Crescent: The Long Relationship of Judaism and Islam

Jews and Muslims have co-existed, at times peacefully, at times contentiously, for more than a millennium. What do they share, and what are the sources of tension and conflict between Judaism and Islam?

Sustainable Eating: What Your Jewish Mother Never Told You

This course will explore food-related issues through the lens of Jewish values and Jewish texts. Topics will include kashrut, food justice, vegetarianism and veganism, sustainability, birkot hanehanim (blessings for food) and more.

Photo by Robert Capa

Yiddishkeit

"Yiddishkeit" refers to a rich and diverse cultural, linguistic, religious and literary world. Explore Yiddish literature, music, theater and cuisine, as well as the influence of Yiddish on English vocabulary.

LECTURES Rice University Jewish Studies Lecture Series The Zionist Evolution: Reinterpreting Prevailing Ideas About Israel October 15, 18 & 22, 2017

Bunny and Leo Horvitz Scholar-in-Residence Series with Dr. Reuven Y. Hazan of The Hebrew University Israel at 70: Democracy, Politics and Society February 11–25, 2018 Professor Reuven Y. Hazan is a political scientist, diplomat, political affairs commentator and former Chair of the Political Science Department at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Hazan, a ninth generation Israeli who is married to a native Houstonian is thrilled to be returning to Houston for this residency.

Spring Scholars Jewish Ethics Series April 8-15, 2018

FILM & LEARN The J is proud to partner with the National Center for Jewish Film to offer several rare and relevant documentary films throughout the year.

Rosenwald

Monday, January 15, 2018 | 1:00 PM & 7:30 PM Pre-Film Discussion with Dr. Bernice Heilbrunn Potvin In the early 20th century, philanthropist Julius Rosenwald joined forces with African Americans in the Jim Crow South to become a significant silent partner of the pre-Civil Rights Movement.

For dates, times and prices, or to register online visit erjcchouston.org | Questions – email us at programs@erjcchouston.org

Lifelong Learning Mah Jongg

Adult

Symposium

Adult

If you’re interested in learning a new game, try Mah Jongg, an ancient Chinese tile game of skill and luck. You will learn the basics of this fascinating game in just four sessions!

Where else can you find a stimulating intellectual and social environment for active adults? Symposium courses offer a variety of subjects including but not limited to: fine arts, science, civil liberties, literature, entertainment, economics and industries in and around Houston.

Inprint Senior Memoir Workshop

Adults 60+

Kosher Lunch Program

Adults 60+

Co-sponsored by Inprint, this creative writing class concentrates on the non-fiction literary forms of autobiographical memoir and/or the shorter personal essay. It is a non-critical workshop in which members present their work for constructive discussion and help toward making each piece of writing a clear and finished work.

Our wonderful Kosher lunch program is served every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at noon in the board room. Special monthly lunch programs include our birthday lunch, Shabbat Lunch, Lunch and Learns, Box Lunch and a Movie and special holiday lunch celebrations.

J Ride provides safe, reliable, non-emergency transportation for adults age 60 plus and adults with special needs. For more information and enrollment application, visit us at erjcchouston.org/jride or call 713.595.8191. This program is a collaboration between the Evelyn Rubenstein Jewish Community Center, Jewish Family Service, Jewish Federation of Greater Houston and Goldberg B’nai B’rith Towers.

You don’t have to have the keys to enjoy the ride. 28 For dates, times and prices, or to register online visit erjcchouston.org | Questions – email us at programs@erjcchouston.org

Programs Connecting You to Israel

ARTS & CULTURE

Ann and Stephen Kaufman Jewish Book & Arts Fair Oct 28-Nov 12, 2017 FILM: Ben Gurion, Epilogue | Sunday, Nov 5, 2017

We offer a number of opportunities throughout the year to connect with Israel. Programs range from

Houston Jewish Film Festival | March 3-18, 2018

arts to traditional learning and community–wide

Bezalel Academy Graduate Artist in Residence: Ayelet Hochhauser | March 14-28, 2018

engagement. Look at the adjoining list to find the

Israeli Dancing | Tuesdays at 7:30 PM

program that's right for you.

BOBBI AND VIC SAMUELS CENTER FOR JEWISH LIVING & LEARNING

Hebrew Explorers for Ages 5-8 Throughout the School Year

Rice University Jewish Studies Lecture Series The Zionist Evolution: Reinterpreting Prevailing Ideas About Israel | Oct 15, 18 & 22, 2017 Horvitz Scholar-in-Residence Series with Dr. Reuven Y. Hazan Israel at 70: Democracy, Politics and Society Feb 11–25, 2018 Melton & More Adult Jewish Learning | Beyond Borders Part 2

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Birthright Passport Program | Year-long Yom Ha’atzmaut Israel @ 70! Community Wide Celebration | Apr 19, 2018 Tzofim Caravan | Summer 2018

TRAVEL TO ISRAEL

Trip to Israel | September 3-14, 2017

WELLNESS

Krav Maga Classes | Ongoing

Learn more at erjcchouston.org/israel

28th Annual Children's Scholarship Ball Saturday, February 24, 2018 Royal Sonesta Houston Dinner | Dancing | Silent Auction

Left to Right: Ben Blachman, Jeremy Blachman, Lauren Kaufman Blachman, Ann Kaufman, Stephen Kaufman, Abby Blachman

Our Volunteers – The

of the J!

“It is very rewarding. The appreciation you get from delivering the meals is satisfying. It’s not just the meals; it lets clients know that someone cares,” said Vicki. “We give them undivided attention, and that is just as valued as the meal. We see it as a win-win.” “We don’t think about it, we just do it,” said Michael. “It keeps us active, and all the love we get keeps us feeling younger and appreciated.” What a volunteer can do at the J varies, but there is no mistaking that volunteering makes a difference. If you have ever picked up a game of bridge at the J, then chances are you know 88-year-old Walter Arnold. When Arnold retired from American General Insurance in 1992 after 38 years with the company, he was asked to manage our weekly bridge club. And now 19 years later, you will still find him volunteering in that role with the help of some friends.

Michael and Vicki Richker with Willie Estes, J Meals Client

Michael and Vicki Richker answered the call to volunteer 14 years ago after seeing an ad in the Jewish Herald-Voice announcing the JCC Maccabi Games® were coming, and the J needed volunteers. Today you will still find them here, weekly delivering Meals on Wheels, collecting tickets or greeting visitors at one of our many Arts & Culture programs. Michael even took his volunteering efforts into the boardroom, serving on our Board of Directors.

“I wasn’t looking for another job. I get more out of it than just running the game,” said Walter. “I just love people, and we have built a great group who come together every Tuesday and Wednesday to play. We have a lot of grateful seniors who have somewhere to go.” The club is called the Southwest Duplicated Bridge Club, and they are always looking for new players. It is open to anyone as long as you bring your own partner.

The Richkers know they are fortunate and want to help others. They’re involved with Patron of the Arts as donors and volunteers, but their favorite volunteer job is with Meals on Wheels. David Dyer, Nancy Crabtree, Rose Calvin and Walter Arnold

If you’re interested in volunteering at the J or have a volunteer story to share, please contact Sylvia Dauber at 713.551.7227 or srdauber@erjcchouston.org. 30

EVELYN RUBENSTEIN JCC HOUSTON

SEASON OF

ARTS & CULTURE 2017/2018

Hanna and the Moonlit Dress Photo by Basil Rodericks

erjcchouston.org

The Ann and Stephen Kaufman Jewish Book & Arts Fair October 28–November 12, 2017

Stephen Tobolowsky

Steve Dorff

Hanna and the Moonlit Dress Photo by Basil Rodericks

Inspiring and entertaining, the Ann and Stephen Kaufman Jewish Book & Arts Fair annually delivers a variety of opportunities for the community to learn and experience Jewish and Israeli literary, culture and performing arts. The Fair is one of the largest events of its kind in the U.S., attracting established and emerging writers from around the world, representing a myriad of themes. Not just for book lovers, the Fair also presents films, theatre, concerts and Oliver Lapin Family Day featuring authors, interactive performances and activities for children ages 2-11.

HIGHLIGHTS: Opening Night: Stephen Tobolowsky My Adventures with God Closing Night: Steve Dorff I Wrote That One, Too: A Life in Songwriting from Willie to Whitney

Alexandra Zapruder Twenty-Six Seconds: A Personal History of the Zapruder Film Oliver Lapin Family Day Featuring Hanna and the Moonlit Dress

“Let my name be recalled with laughter!” An Afternoon with Sholem Aleichem Commemorating his Yahrzeit Co-presented with Yiddish Vinkel Houston

Sunday, May 6, 2018 | 2:00 PM Houston joins hundreds of communities around the world who annually gather to read works in Yiddish and English to commemorate his life.

32 erjcchouston.org/patron

Theatre

Laughter on the 23rd Floor

Lucky Penny

Saturday, October 21, 2017 | 8:00 PM Sunday, October 22, 2017 | 3:00 PM

Saturday, February 17, 2018 | 8:00 PM Sunday, February 18, 2018 | 3:00 PM

Long before Saturday Night Live and The Daily Show, there was Your Show of Shows. From the gifted pen of America’s favorite playwright, Neil Simon, comes one of his funniest plays, a love letter to his early career as a writer for Sid Caesar’s Your Show of Shows. Simon recounts his writing, fighting and wacky antics during days of live television when he cavorted with such comedy legends as Carl Reiner and Mel Brooks.

Described as an actor we don’t know but need to know, David Deblinger brings his poignant and hilarious Off Broadway performance to the Kaplan Theatre Stage, offering life lessons when he both lost his father and became one for the first time. Onstage, he becomes a full cast of characters in this one-hour show. He makes you laugh and makes you cry. Jazz musician Fred Johnson performs live on stage, offering interludes that give the audience time to absorb what they’ve just experienced before moving to the next round.

Written by Neil Simon | A Staged Reading Directed by Steve Garfinkel

Hanna and the Moonlit Dress

Based on Hanna’s Sabbath’s Dress by Itzhak Schweiger-Dmi’el Adapted for the Stage by Ronit Muszkatblit and Yoav Gal Directed by Ronit Muszkatblit Recommended for ages 2-8

Saturday, November 4, 2017 | 5:00 PM Sunday, November 5, 2017 | 10:00 AM Come celebrate the miracle of Hanukah with Hanna and the Moonlit Dress, a fantastical, interactive musical for children about the magic of a good deed. Children will join in Hanukah songs and crafts helping create Hanna’s world and moonlight enchantment. Overjoyed with her new dress, Hanna runs to show it to her friends. Little does she know what a meaningful adventure awaits her. Hanna and the Moonlit Dress has been incubated by The Theater at the 14th Street Y. Hanna and the Moonlit Dress received its World Premiere at the 14th Street Y in 2016.

Written and performed by David Deblinger Directed by Ben Snyder | Music and vocals by Fred Johnson

Jewish Plays Project October–December 2017 A revolution is underway in Jewish culture. In music, in books, in film, artists are creating amazing new pathways to Jewish identity. Based in New York City, the Jewish Plays Project (JPP) believes that it is time for theater to join the movement by putting bold, progressive Jewish conversations on world stages. Simply put, the JPP wants to bring great plays to life. Founder David Winitsky is the director of the JPP and a collaborator with StorahTelling and a PresenTense New York City Fellow. The J will join eight other national community panel readers who will engage in the reading and vetting of 10 plays. The Houston Team of readers will host public conversations about these plays. The national winner receives a workshop and performance in New York City.

REGIONAL PREMIERE Stages Repertory Theatre in partnership with the Evelyn Rubenstein Jewish Community Center of Houston Present

The Revisionist

By Jesse Eisenberg

April 10-22, 2018 David arrives in Poland with a crippling case of writer's block and a desire to be left alone. His 75-year-old second cousin Maria welcomes him with a fervent need to connect with her distant American family. As their tenuous relationship develops, she reveals details about her complicated post-war past that tests their ideas of what it means to be a family. 33

Film

Fanny's Journey

Film at The Ann and Stephen Kaufman Jewish Book & Arts Fair October 28-November 12, 2017 HIGHLIGHTS: Monkey Business: The Adventures of Curious George’s Creators Sunday, October 29, 2017 A documentary featuring the Curious George creators, Hans and Margret Rey, their narrow WWII escape and the origins of the world's most beloved monkey.

Fanny’s Journey

Audience Choice Winner Runner Up, Houston Jewish Film Festival 2017

Saturday, November 4, 2017

Inspired by the memoir of Fanny Ben-Ami, the film follows a group of children led by twelve year-old Fanny across occupied France during WWII.

Houston Jewish Film Festival March 3-18, 2018

New promising, entertaining and exceptional award-winning films are featured in this annual festival, which brings Jewish lives and stories to the big screen. The films of HJFF have won Oscars, Ophirs (Israel), Ariels (Mexico) and other prestigious awards from around the world. With venues across town, the Festival, now in its 14th year, shines the spotlight on Jewish and Israeli culture, art and history.

34 erjcchouston.org/patron

Music One Voice, One Vibe, One Community Composer: Desmond Ikegwuonu Text Curation: Ellen Leventhal Artistic Director: Marc Garvin

Sunday, August 20, 2017 | 4:00 PM Within ten months, two floods decimated our greater Meyerland area—the heart of Houston’s Jewish community. The J became the hub for relief efforts. There is a renewed sense of pride and excitement about our community and its viability. One Voice, One Vibe, Our Community captures our commitment to connecting, rebuilding, and rising in a concert featuring original music by former Houstonian, Dr. Desmond Ikegwuonu and text written by community members. Sponsored by JCC Association’s Making Music Happen Centennial Grant Initiative, funded by a grant from Marvin J. Pertzik and the Mary Livingston Griggs and Mary Griggs Burke Foundation.

Tavche Gravche Saturday, November 11, 2017 | 8:00 PM Tavche Gravche merges haunting Macedonian and Mediterranean melodies, both traditional and original, with dynamic improvisational elements, all the while maintaining the explosive danceable rhythms and energy of Balkan music. Macedonian-born and Juilliard graduate clarinetist Vasko Dukovski is a concert performer dedicated to breathing new life into the music of his roots. Steeped in both jazz and flamenco, Israeli-born guitarist Dan Nadel provides the fiery textural and harmonic palette for the band's music. Jazz bassist Daniel Ori, also from Israel, is the quartet's founder, and his prominent sound is its foundation. Together, the trio pushes the boundaries of this unique blend of cultures, rhythms and colors to become an all-encompassing adventure for listeners.

Winter Concert David Krohn Bernstein: A Life of Music Sunday, September 10, 2017 | 4:00 PM Leonard Bernstein at 100 is a two-year global celebration of the life and career of the 20th century cultural giant with more than 1,000 events on six continents. David Krohn returns to the Kaplan Theatre Stage for a retrospective of Bernstein’s life featuring his classical selections, art song and musicals. Our concert beautifully coincides with Houston Grand Opera’s production of West Side Story that will be the first major American opera company to produce it, complete with full rights for Jerome Robbins’ choreography.

Featuring works by Hana Ajiashvili and Richard Lavenda

Sunday, January 28, 2018 | 4:00 PM

Born in Tbilisi, Georgia, Hana Ajiashvili immigrated to Israel in 2001 and continued her activities as a composer and director at the Or Yehuda Conservatory. In 2007 she completed her doctorate at Bar-Ilan University, under the supervision of Gideon Lewensohn and Betty Olivero. Dr. Ajiashvili will be a Schusterman Visiting Israeli Artist at The Shepherd School of Music at Rice University. Students will perform works by Ajiashvili and Dr. Richard Lavenda, Professor of Composition and Theory and Director of Graduate Studies.

Dance

presented the North American premier of Vertigo Dance Company of Israel, now an internationally renowned company. 2018 is the 70th Anniversary of the State of Israel. Many cultural events will be taking place and as in past years, the J will be the lead presenter of most all of these community-wide events. This auspicious year provides a special opportunity for dance. Plans are still underway for the 2017-2018 season, so stay tuned!

Get Cultured

Get Cultured offers arts, culture and education events and get-togethers exclusively for young adults in their 20s and 30s. The Get Cultured season consists of film screenings, author talks, culinary programs, comedy nights, and other events.

Passport: For Birthright Israel Alumni Peridance Contemporary Dance Comapny

or over 37 years, the J has presented the best and brightest dance artists to Houston audiences. The dance program presents local, national and international artists showcasing all forms of dance and being instrumental in launching careers of many dancers, companies, and choreographers, as well as mid-size dance companies who otherwise would not have a platform for performance in Houston. Although other organizations have emerged to showcase Houston talent, the dance program at the J stands the test of time through concerts such as Houston Choreographers X6, Four in the Mix and Triple Focus, just to name a few. The J provides a stage for the creation and presentation of new works in a forum for Houston's dancers, choreographers and companies to have their works and talents showcased. The dance performance and education program has been a vanguard for national and international artists whose reputations for excellent work were just budding when we introduced them to Houston: Koresh Dance Company, Ate9, Gallim Dance, and in the 80s/90s, Gus Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago, Dallas Black Dance Theatre, Acia Gray, and Ohad Naharin Dance Company in 1988, two years before he became Artistic Director for Bat Sheva. In 2001, Dance Month 36 erjcchouston.org/patron

People who have returned from Birthright in the past 5 years are eligible to receive a $250 credit for arts and culture programs, including Get Cultured events. Visit erjcchouston.org/passport for more details.

Arts in the Afternoon 2017/2018

The Arts in the Afternoon program provides the unique experience for our community to enjoy film, music and dance. All programs are offered on a weekday at 1:00 PM. Friday, September 8, 2017 MUSIC | MATIMA – Piano/Clarinet duo Friday, December 8, 2017 MUSIC | Houston Grand Opera - Opera to Go! Monday, January 15, 2018 FILM | Rosenwald Friday, February 2, 2018 DANCE | Journey into the World of Indian Dance Friday, April 27, 2018 MUSIC | Houston Grand Opera – Opera to Go!

Deutser Art Gallery Renewal

Gotta Dance: The Art of the Dance Movie Poster

August 20-October 16, 2017 Opening Reception Sunday, Aug 20, 2017 | 2:00 PM

January 5–February 12, 2018

Works by The Women in the Visual and Literary Arts (WiVLA)

Renewal is a theme that arises during the High Holidays. This exhibition of original art and writings by members of The Women in the Visual and Literary Arts pairs with the One Voice, One Vibe, One Community concert. Based in Houston, WiVLA's mission is to provide an inspiring forum for women to explore and advance their creative development, to promote their work in the marketplace and to infuse the community with their spirit of cooperation and invention.

Jennifer Pittsford Art: Works of Collage October 20–November 13, 2017 Jennifer Pittsford is a visual artist specializing in collage, using torn and cut magazines to create an image. As a high school senior, she was accepted into the Art Satellite Program where she took an advanced course at The Milwaukee Art Museum and was introduced to collage as a fine art medium. Featured in this exhibition is a work created for the Ann and Stephen Kaufman Jewish Book & Arts Fair brochure.

Treetopia – 20 Years of Exploring the Tree Trunk Through Process and Material By Orna Feinstein

From the Mike Kaplan Collection

As a young child, Mike Kaplan fell in love with theater ads, clipping them from the Sunday New York Times and coloring them. Kaplan became part of the film industry which allowed him to collect new poster favorites. He is a producer, documentary director, actor, award-winning poster designer and an advocate for posters as an art form. Gotta Dance unites dance and film fans featuring posters from nine different nations.

J Teen Art Scene | Art exhibition by local teens February 16–March 8, 2018 Reception and Awards Ceremony Sunday, February 25, 2018 Scattered Among the Nations: The Jews of India March 10–Apr 12, 2018 Bryan Schwartz, Sandy Carter and Jay Sand have visited dozens of the most isolated Jewish communities in the world. Their unique photographs and interviews document populations that remain on the geographic and cultural fringes of the Jewish Diaspora. This exhibit, in conjunction with FotoFest 2018 Biennial, documents the Bene Israel and Benei Menashe communities.

Courtesy of Anya Tish Gallery

November 17–December 29, 2017 This year marks the 20th anniversary of Orna Feinstein’s exploration of her iconic tree rings motif and will be celebrated with a presentation on her new book at this year’s Local Literati program at the Ann Tree Dynamics #141 and Stephen Kaufman Jewish Book & Arts Fair followed by an exhibition of her works opening just after The Fair. Feinstein specializes in monoprints and other mixed media. Her art begins with an observation of nature and ends up in an abstract creation.

Israel Street Photography by Roy Rozanski April 13–June 1, 2018 Roy Rozanski is a 37 year old photographer who hails from Israel. He calls Tel Aviv his “main hunting ground” because it contains “a highly versatile street life. Street photography is challenging as nothing is staged or rehearsed. A photographer has to be ready to catch a “decisive moment.” Discovered and recommended to us by the Jewish Herald Voice’s Michael Duke, we are proud to introduce Rozanski’s work to the Houston community.

PATRON OF THE ARTS | JOIN TODAY!

Patrons of the Arts are dedicated individuals and families who make Jewish arts, culture and education a priority in their philanthropic giving. Becoming a Patron helps the J continue to present a diverse and stimulating array of programs in arts, culture and education each year. Support from Patrons of the Arts allows the J to contribute to the vibrancy of Houston as one of the greatest arts cities in the United States. $3,600 | Emerald All benefits of Diamond Plus, plus… • Membership in the Continuity Society $2,500 | Diamond Plus All benefits of Diamond, plus… • Up to four family guests, under the age of 16, for Hanna and the Moonlit Dress $1,800 | Diamond All benefits of Platinum, plus… • Theatre Season Pass • Music Season Pass • Invitation to private Patron of the Arts Event • Sponsorship of a particular author, film or performance • Concierge service for seat reservations $1,000 | Platinum All benefits of Gold, plus… • Two tickets for two Theatre performances • Two tickets for two Music performances • Series Passes for Rice University Program in Jewish Studies Lecture Series, Horvitz Scholar Series and Spring Scholars Lecture Series • Reserved Parking for Houston Jewish Film Festival and The Ann and Stephen Kaufman Jewish Book & Arts Fair

$500 | Gold • Series Pass to The Ann and Stephen Kaufman Jewish Book & Arts Fair • Series Pass to Houston Jewish Film Festival • Two tickets for one Theatre, Music and Dance performance

• Two tickets to Arts in the Afternoon • Reserved Seating for Opening & Closing Nights of The Ann and Stephen Kaufman Jewish Book & Arts Fair • Patron of the Arts Kick-Off event • Easy Online Registration Code for tickets • Exclusive email newsletter • Recognition on Patron of the Arts collateral

Under 35? We have a special $180 option for you. Learn more at erjcchouston.org/patron.

We Don’t Want You to Miss a Minute! RSVPs are required. Automatic admission is not guaranteed without RSVP for arts, culture, and education programs. RSVP easily online, by phone or by email.

BENEFITS FOR UP TO TWO PEOPLE | All Patrons receive two program memberships with their contribution. Patron benefits are non-transferable.

We’d like to thank our partners for their generous support of the Arts, Culture and Education programs at the J. The Maurice Amado Foundation | Marriott Houston Westchase | The Eleanor and Frank Freed Foundation Houston Arts Alliance | Texas Commission on the Arts

erjcchouston.org/patron 38

Fall 2017–Spring 2018 Special Events AUGUST

Celebrate the New Year the J Way Aug 20 1:15 PM-5:00 PM Includes lectures, concert & art opening reception, Ronnie Arrow Jewish Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

SEPTEMBER

Fall Classes Begin David Krohn-Bernstein: A Life of Music Oy Vey! 5K Family Fun Run & Walk

OCTOBER

Rice Lecture Series Laughter on the 23rd Floor Ann and Stephen Kaufman Jewish Book & Arts Fair

NOVEMBER

Hanna and the Moonlit Dress Oliver Lapin Family Day Tavche Gravche Thanksgiving Break Camp JCCS Presents Cats

DECEMBER

Festival of Jewish Culture Teen Theatre Presents The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee Winter Break Bash Winter Break Camp

JANUARY

Winter/Spring Classes Begin Fitness Center Open House Weingarten Tennis Weekend

FEBRUARY

Houston National Invitational J Camps Registration Day Daddy Daughter Dance Horvitz Scholar-in-Residence Lucky Penny Children’s Scholarship Ball J Teen Art Scene Grand Opening Showcase

MARCH

Celebrating Women Month Houston Jewish Film Festival Spring Break Camp Bezalel Academy Graduate Artist in Residence: Ayelet Hochhauser

APRIL

The Revisionist CJLL Spring Scholar Series J Serve 2017 Community-Wide Yom Ha’atzmaut Celebration Annual Golf Tournament Teen Theatre Presents Finian’s Rainbow

MAY

JCCS Presents Seussical, Jr. Annual Meeting

Sept 5 Sept 10 Sept 17

4:00 PM 7:00 AM-10:30 AM

Oct 15-22 Oct 21-22 Oct 28-Nov 12 Nov 4-5 Nov 5 Nov 11 Nov 20-24 Nov 30-Dec 10 Dec 17 Dec 14-17 Dec 25 Dec 26-Jan 5 Jan 7 Jan 7 Jan 26-28 Feb 2-4 Feb 4 Feb 10 Feb 11-25 Feb 17-18 Feb 24 Feb 25

2:00 PM-6:00 PM

9:00 AM

9:00 AM-1:00 PM 7:00 PM-9:00 PM 7:30 PM 4:00 PM

Mar 1-27 Mar 3-18 Mar 12-16 March 14-28 Apr 10-22 Apr 8-15 Apr 15 Apr 19 4:30 PM-7:00 PM Apr 23 11:00 AM Apr 26-29 May 3-13 May 15

7:00 PM

HOLIDAY CLOSURES

We will be closed on the 1st and 7th day of the Jewish Festival Holidays: Sukkot, Simchat Torah, Passover and Shavuot and for some secular holidays. For a full list of all holiday hours, visit us online at erjcchouston.org. 39

EVELYN RUBENSTEIN JCC HOUSTON

Non–Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 6217 Houston, Texas

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

2017/2018 ARTS & CULTURE SEASON HIGHLIGHTS Music | One Voice, One Vibe, One Community August 20, 2017

Art | Gotta Dance January 5–February 12, 2018

Art | Renewal August 20-October 16, 2017

Music | Winter Concert January 28, 2018

Music | David Krohn: Bernstein: A Life of Music September 10, 2017

Art | J Teen Art Scene February 16–March 8, 2018

Theatre | Jewish Plays Project October–December 2017

Theatre | Lucky Penny February 17-18, 2018

Theatre | Laughter on the 23rd Floor October 21-22, 2017

Film | Houston Jewish Film Festival March 3-18, 2018

Art | Jennifer Pittsford Art: Works of Collage October 20–November 13, 2017

Art | Scattered Among the Nations: The Jews of India March 10–April 12, 2018

Literature | The Ann and Stephen Kaufman Jewish Book & Arts Fair October 28–November 12, 2017

Theatre | The Revisionist April 10-22, 2018

Film | Films at The Ann and Stephen Kaufman Jewish Book & Arts Fair October 28–November 12, 2017 Art | Orna Feinstein: Treetopia November 17–December 29, 2017

Art | Roy Rozanski: Celebrate Israel! April 13–June 1, 2018 Literature | An Afternoon with Sholem Aleichem May 6, 2018

erjcchouston.org