May 2016 J Connect Magazine by Daryl Freedman

EVELYN RUBENSTEIN JCC HOUSTON

May 2016

Connect Magazine

Say Hello to

SUMMER!

INSIDE

J Camps p.4 Annual Meeting p.6 Women's Month p. 9 Children’s Scholarship Ball p. 10 J Meals Mother’s Day p. 12

erjcchouston.org

J Connect Magazine

April 2016 Contents

Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 J Camps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Annual Meeting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Annual Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Melton School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Children's Scholarship Ball �� 20 Tributes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

LOCATION DIRECTORY MILTON LEVIT FAMILY CAMPUS

5601 S. Braeswood Houston, TX 77096–3907

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

Fitness Center 713.551.7211

THE JCC WEST HOUSTON HERZSTEIN BUILDING

Join on your terms

A membership for every budget starting at $180/yr. Visit erjcchouston.org/membership for more information. 2

THE MERFISH TEEN CENTER

9000 S. Rice Houston, TX 77096–2626 713.838.7200

1120 Dairy Ashford Houston, TX 77079–3002 281.556.5567

Mon–Thur | 7:00 AM–7:00 PM Fri | 7:00 AM–6:00 PM Sat–Sun | Closed The Ellen Boniuk Early Childhood School 281.556.5567 Mon–Fri | 7:00 AM–6:00 PM For a complete phone directory, please visit erjcchouston.org.

Summer Holidays and Special Events MAY

Celebrating Women Month Kids Triathlon 80th Annual Meeting JCCS Presents Beauty and the Beast Jr. JCCS Presents Beauty and the Beast Jr. Kinder Camp & Camp Kaleidoscope Parent Info Meeting Stars of David: Story to Song Begins Yom Ha’atzmaut Celebration Kids Nite Out Mimosas & Mah Jongg Camp Bami & Bami Tots Parent Info Meeting BAS Pre-K Graduation An Afternoon of Dance Memorial Day Summer Kick-off Pool Party J Camps Pre-Camp 1 Begins

JUNE

Early Bird Melton Registration (core classes only) Kinder Camp & Bami Pre-Camp J Camps Pre-Camp 2 Begins Circus Camp Performance Meet the Camp Counselors Shavuot Shavuot Shavuot J Camps Session I Begins Kids Nite Out Parents' Nite Out Pool Party

JULY

Melton Registration Opens Independence Day Fourth of July Pool Party Performing Arts Camp Show: Freckleface Strawberry Kids Nite Out Camp Family Mitzvah Day J Camps Session II Begins Kids Nite Out

AUGUST

Performing Arts Camp Show: Freckleface Strawberry Kids Nite Out J Camps Session III Film: Age of Love Kids Nite Out Havdalah by the Pool Explore Yom Kippur and More Fall Market BAS Preschool Open House Fall Class Registration

May 1-24 May 1 May 3 6:30 PM May 5 7:00 PM May 8 2:00 PM & 5:00 PM May 9 10:00 AM or 7:00 PM May 11-22 May 12 May 14 6:30 PM May 15 10:00 AM May 17 10:00 AM or 7:00 PM May 25 6:00 PM May 29 3:00PM May 30 Holiday Hours 8:00 AM–6:00 PM May 30 10:00 AM-1:00 PM May 31

June 1 June 2-3 June 6 June 9-10 June 10 June 11 June 12 June 13 June 13 June 18 June 18

July 1 July 4 July 4 July 7 July 9 July 10 July 11 July 23

August 4 August 6 August 8 August 18 August 20 August 20 August 21 August 21 August 21 August 21

Close at 5:00 PM Closed Holiday Hours 8:00 AM–6:00 PM 6:30 PM-9:30 PM 6:30 PM-9:30 PM

Holiday Hours 8:00 AM-6:00 PM 10:00 AM-1:00 PM 5:30PM 6:30 PM

5:30PM 6:30 PM-9:30 PM 7:30 PM 6:30 PM-9:30 PM 6:00 PM-8:00 PM 10:00 AM 10:00 AM

theater production of Freckleface Strawberry the Musical. We also have Art Camp directed by Johnston Middle School teacher, Tobi Arsham. Campers will learn about different themes through styles like Renaissance, Impressionism, Pop Art and Graffiti.

Summer Options for J Camps

The J takes pride in hiring skilled, experienced and caring staff to work with campers. We aim for a 1:6 camper-to-staff ratio with an average class size of 15–20 campers depending on the camp. “J Camps goals include socialization, skill development and an increased level of role modeling from our camp staff – all delivered in a safe, nurturing environment,” said Randy Comensky, Director of Children and Camping Services. “Our camp facilities and trained staff enable us to provide the finest camp programming available in the Houston area.” J Camps include traditional camp pactivities like daily instructional and recreational swimming and Judaic enrichment. The J has been giving children the ultimate day camp experience for more than 65 years. Camp begins with pre-camp May 31 and runs three separate sessions ending August 19. Your child can enjoy as many weeks of J Camps as he or she wants. For more information about the J Camps, call the camp office at 713.595.8166 or visit erjcchouston.org/camps.

he J offers it all when it comes to camp, and this summer there are more options than ever before. J Camps offers a variety of camp programs for children ages 3–15 years old. Specialty camps include American Ninja Warrior, S.T.E.M., Lego, Aquatics, Wood Creations, Mad Science, Performing Arts, Dance and Equestrian Camp. Your child can also spend the week training in our state-of-the-art tennis or gymnastics facilities with professionals. They can mix up the fun by enhancing their sports skills. The J is expanding Sports Camp with the addition of 1st and 2nd graders for the Mike Henshaw Soccer Camp and Rice Baseball Camp. These campers will spend the morning learning and developing soccer and baseball skills and still enjoy recreational swim in the afternoons. Sports Camp also includes Matt Swanson Golf and Triple D Basketball Camps for 3-5 graders.

Important Dates to Remember

If your child prefers the arts, our Performing Arts Camp offers 3rd-5th graders the opportunity to be part of a full-scale

Camp Family Mitzvah Day – July 10

Kinder Camp and Camp Kaleidoscope Parent Info Meeting – May 9 Camp Bami Parent Info Meeting – May 17 Meet the Counselors – June 10

Calling all campers! Please join us for an opportunity to meet your camp counselor. Meet The Counselors Shabbat is Friday, June 10. This is a great opportunity for our day campers to become more familiar with J Camps and all the enriching activities we have planned for the summer. Come by any of our traditional day camps between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM on June 10. Celebrate Shabbat J Camps style with any of our camps at the following times:

Camp Bami Shabbat | 4:30 PM at the Bertha Alyce School Kinder Camp Shabbat | 5:00 PM at the J - Weingarten Building, 3rd Floor Camp Kaleidoscope Shabbat | 5:30 PM at the Merfish Teen Center

Summer Family Membership!

Recreational Swimming | Lap Swimming Water Fitness | Swim Lessons

• • • • • • •

Indoor/outdoor pools Spray park Water slides Shaded pavilion Picnic space Kid-friendly Birthday pool parties!

POOL OUTDOOR ENDS WEEK OPEN ON MAY 7 STARTING L-TIME OPEN FUL MAY 23 STARTING

EXPLORE | DISCOVER | CREATE MAY 31 – AUGUST 19

Half-Day & Full-Day Options | 1, 2 & 4 Week Programs AM & PM Care Available J Camps offer a variety of summer camp options, blending fun and skill development with an enriching experience bound to make your child explore, discover, create and make new friendships that will last a lifetime. • American Ninja Warrior • Aquatics • Art • Basketball • Camp S.T.E.M. • Circus • Cooking

CAMP OPTIONS:

• Counselor In Training (CIT) • Dance • Early Childhood • Equestrian • Gymnastics • Kaleidoscope • Kinder Camp

• LEGO • Mad Science • Matt Swanson Golf • Mike Henshaw Soccer • Performing Arts • Rice Baseball

• Tennis • Tween Treks • Writers in the School • Wood Creations • World of Wizards

Instructional or recreational swim for ALL camps.

Visit erjcchouston.org/camps or call us today at 713.551.7208. 5

Celebrating 80 Years of Leadership

Evelyn Rubenstein JCC Annual Meeting

he Evelyn Rubenstein JCC of Houston invites the community to the 80th Annual Meeting on Tuesday, May 3 at 7:00 PM. The annual meeting is an opportunity for members and the public to get an update on the state of the agency. It is also an evening to recognize and honor several key members of the community. This year the meeting commemorates 80 years of programming, volunteer service and leadership. “I’m so excited to take a look at how far we have come as an organization from our beginning with only 10 members,” said Roslyn Haikin, Annual Meeting Chair. “The JCC has evolved into an outstanding organization and the people who brought us here deserve our praise. It energizes me to look back on the people who are connected with this place. I love that we can learn from our past, treasure our present while we prepare for our future.” A highlight of the Annual Meeting is the recognition of the winner of the prestigious David H. White award. The Selection Committee, chaired by Mark Brookner, is pleased to announce the 2016 recipient is Gerald Merfish.

Gerald is a community leader, family man and Gerald Merfish will be honored as the business owner who has winner of the David H White Award. dedicated his life’s work and service to improving the quality of life of others. He is the President and CEO of Merfish Pipe & Supply, a business that his family has owned and managed for over 96 years. He has served in many different roles in the Jewish and greater community in the past few decades including Evelyn Rubenstein JCC President.

Recognize? Le us know at ashabtay@erjcchouston.org

“Gerald Merfish has made his mark as an outstanding volunteer leader in our community,” said Board President Debbie Kaplan. “He has given his time, expertise and leadership to numerous organizations and continues to serve as a mentor and advisor to current leaders. We are so excited to honor Gerald for his passion and service to our community plus his life-long commitment to leadership — he has and continues to make an important impact on our community and I am thrilled he has been chosen as this year’s David H. White Award recipient.” Several other members of the community will be honored for their tireless work and dedication to the mission of the J. The Reuben Askanase Past President’s Leadership Award recipients are Jennifer Haikin Zach and Jeremy Samuels. Jennifer and Jeremy will be honored at the Jewish Community Center Association’s Jennifer Haikin Zach and Jeremy Samuels Biennial in Baltimore will be honored as the winners of the May 15-17, 2016. Louis Reuben Askanaze Past President's Leadership Award. Lippman will be recognized for his volunteer service and receive this year’s Stanley Rosenblatt Volunteer Excellence Award. Evelyn Rubenstein JCC Bertha Alyce School teacher Leslie Slatko will be recognized and honored with the Jerry Wische Staff Excellence Award. In conjunction with the 80th Annual Meeting, on display in the Café, there will be historical pictures, lists of past and present leadership of the J, and a timeline of important events in the J’s lifetime. Be sure to stop by to view the exhibit April 26th to May 7th, to find your relatives and friends, add your name to our leadership wall, and explore the history of our organization. The community is invited to the 80th Annual Meeting. From Generation to Generation: Celebrating 80 Years of Leadership of the J on May 3 in the Kaplan Theatre followed by a reception in the Deutser Art Gallery. RSVP to Melanie Beltram at mbeltram@erjcchouston.org or 713.729.3200 ext. 3214.

Jerry Wische, Stanley Rosenblatt, Gerald Merfish, Theba Feldman and Jack Turk

EVELYN RUBENSTEIN JCC OF HOUSTON 80TH ANNUAL MEETING

From Generation to Generation: Celebrating 80 Years of Leadership Tuesday, May 3, 2016 | 7:00 PM Dessert & wine reception in the Deutser Art Gallery immediately following the program Kaplan Theatre The Gerald Rauch Cultural And Performing Ar ts Wing

Past Lay Leadership was instrumental to what the J is today.

Fitness and recreation have always been an integral part of the J

Based on the Best-Selling Book by Abigail Pogrebin By Special Arrangement with Daryl Roth Directed by Luke Wrobel Musical Director: Jonathan Craft Starring Brad Goertz, John Gremillion, Amanda Passante, and Laura Yosowitz In Cooperation with Vital Arts Collaborative

May 11–22, 2016

This new musical revue, based on the best-selling book by Abigail Pogrebin, celebrates the identity of

some of the most well-known Jewish personalities including Leonard Nimoy, Andy Cohen, Kenneth Cole, Fran Drescher, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Tony Kushner, Aaron Sorkin, and Gloria Steinem with songs by some

of Broadway’s best composers including, Marvin Hamlisch, Sheldon Harnick, Tom Kitt, Duncan Sheik, and

many more! “Best of the year! Loved every minute of this funny, touching tuneful revue.” ‒ Palm Beach Artspaper

Information and tickets visit erjcchouston.org/theatre or call 713-551-7255.

THE FLORENCE MELTON SCHOOL OF ADULT JEWISH LEARNING NO HOMEWORK. NO GRADES. KNOW JUDAISM.

Melton is a sophisticated, text-based Jewish literacy program developed by the Hebrew University in Jerusalem. Learners may enroll in the Core Curriculum, which consists of four foundational courses taken over] two years, or the Scholars curriculum, which consists of advanced, topical courses on many subjects in Jewish life. Melton explores centuries of Jewish traditions in an exciting, pluralistic and thought-provoking environment.

For more information visit erjcchouston.org/melton or contact Nomi Barancik at 713.729.3200 ext. 3288 or nbarancik@erjcchouston.org. 8

D EARLY BIR TION REGISTRA ONLY CLASSES FOR CORE NE 1. BEGINS JU S CLASS SCHOLAR INS TION BEG REGISTRA JULY 2.

Time to Celebrate Ladies Are you a wife, a mother, a daughter or a survivor? If so, you will relate to the hilarious antics of Deb Ebenstein, a Jersey girl turned wife, mother, survivor and author of Mani-Pedi STAT, a laugh-out-loud funny, sassy, helpful and profoundly honest memoir that chronicles her two bouts of cancer and a rare blood disorder.

dessert reception, a copy of the featured book and compliments of OPI, a bottle of the fun nail color Suzi’s Hungary Again. And to top it off, Laura Yosowitz, producing director of Vital Arts Collaborative will give our opening night audience a sneak peek of Stars of David: Story to Song, a dazzling new musical revue that opens at the J May 11.

Join your family and friends for an evening that will make you laugh and cry Sunday, May 1 at 7:30 PM at the J in cooperation with the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston.

“By offering social, recreational and cultural experiences, Celebrating Women’s month represents so much of what the J is all about,” said Morgan Steinberg, adult program director.

It will be the first night of the 3rd Annual Celebrating Women’s month at the J. A single ticket includes author discussion,

Celebrating Women’s month offers a variety of programs that are inspirational, educational, cultural and social.

Women's Month Calendar of Events Mani-Pedi STAT Sunday, May 1 Women of Faith Wednesdays, May 4-18 Mother and Daughter Challah Bake Thursday, May 5 Shabbat Lunch at Noon Fridays, May 6-26 From Victim to Survivor Friday, May 6 Kosher Wine & Cheese: Let’s Talk About…Sex! Monday, May 9 Bus Tour: Houston Women’s History Tour Wednesday, May 11 Stars of David: Story to Song May 11–22

Community Wide Yom Ha’atzmaut Celebration Thursday, May 12 Mimosas & Mah Jongg Sunday, May 15 Film: Look at Us Now, Mother! Monday, May 16 Every Beat Counts: Women’s Heart Health Sunday, May 22 Edible Chocolate Mosaics Sunday, May 22 Ladies Night Out: Making a Layered Medallion Necklace Monday, May 23 Civilian Safety Awareness Program Tuesday, May 24

For more information or to register for an event, contact Morgan Steinberg at 713.595.8170 or visit erjcchouston.org/celebratingwomen. 9

CHILDREN’S SCHOL ARSHIP BALL BENEFITTING THE IRVIN K APLAN CHILDREN’S SCHOLARSHIP FUND AT T H E E V E LY N R U B E N S T E I N J E W I S H C O M M U N I T Y C E N T E R O F H O U S T O N

Children’s Scholarship Ball Rocks the J

he Evelyn Rubenstein JCC’s 26th Annual Children’s Scholarship Ball welcomed over 650 guests to the Royal Sonesta Houston on Saturday, February 27 for an evening of rock ‘n roll-themed fun. This year’s event honored four remarkable people, long-time community leaders and volunteers Ann and J. Kent Friedman and Erica and Benjy Levit. The cocktail reception featured an extensive silent auction for continued support of children’s scholarships. Guests were ushered into the lavishly decorated ballroom, which featured a “Rock the J” concert stage, adorned with the Honorees names. Two speakers, Sandra Holland and Shelton Abrams, kicked-off the evening by sharing their firsthand

2016 Honorees Erica and Benjy Levit accept their award from Honorary Chairs Marci Rosenberg and Ben Samuels.

Shelton Abrams, the son of Luba and Bernard Abrams, along with his sister Terry Goldfarb, recently established a scholarship fund in his father’s name. Shelton shared how his dad spent almost every day of his retirement years at the J staying active, participating in senior fitness and swimming. “It was Dad’s wish that The Bernard Abrams Family Camp Scholarship Fund would benefit children whose families are not able to send their children to summer camp at the J. It is our hope that in a small way this scholarship fund will help, as Dad would say, ‘keep the children on the right path and help to ensure that all children are able to spend their formative years at Jewish summer day camp.’ ”

2016 Honorees Kenny and Ann Friedman accept their award from Honorary Chairs (L-R) Cyvia Wolff (far left), Arthur and Joyce Schechter, and Melvyn Wolff.

accounts of the importance of tzedakah and supporting those in need, demonstrating why the Irvin Kaplan Children’s Scholarship Fund is so important. Sandra shared how the J has made a significant difference in her life when she a sixty-two year old grandmother and took sole custody of her two-year old granddaughter through a difficult series of events. “You may never know the impact that the J has had on the lives of the other children they have helped, but I want you to know the effect of your donations on Cera's life is monumental. Through your generosity, you have believed, supported, and invested in her future and for this gift I am and will always be so very grateful.” 10

The Honorees were recognized for their impact on our community through their dedication to children and families. They were presented with award statuettes and were joined on stage by their Honorary Chairs: Joyce and Arthur Schechter, and Cyvia and Melvyn Wolff for the Friedmans; and Marci Rosenberg and Ben Samuels for the Levits. The Honorary Chairs paid tribute to the accomplishments of the Honorees on videos shown as part of the evening’s program. They all had a hand in making the Ball a huge success and raising funds for the Irvin Kaplan Children’s Scholarship Fund so no child is denied the opportunity to participate in life-changing experiences at the J. “It was so exciting for everyone to honor such deserving award recipients and also support the work the J does in our community,” said Evelyn Rubenstein JCC President Debbie Kaplan. “Thank you to

our amazing Ball Chairs – Lauren Straus Sorkin, Amira Grinberg Staller and Jennfier Haikin Zach, and our incredible and tireless Auction Chairs, Abby Ackerman and Melissa Goodman for their vision, enthusiasm and talents that have propelled this event to different level.”

Sandra Holland shared her personal story of needing financial assistance and all-day care for her granddaughter, during a critical time in their lives.

Irvin Kaplan. Kaplan, a native Houstonian and a successful entrepreneur, made lasting contributions to the Jewish community and to the community at large. Since its inception over two decades ago, the Children’s Scholarship Ball has generated over $11 million for the Irvin Kaplan Children’s Scholarship Fund, providing financial assistance so that children from six week old infants to teenagers, of all religions and ethnicities, and with different abilities, can enjoy stimulating early childhood care, educational activities, special needs programs and summer day camp at the J. The success of this year’s Ball and all those who generously contributed truly honored Irvin’s legacy and by helping fulfill $450,000 in commitments to families needing assistance this year.

Shelton Abrams spoke about his late father, Bernard Abrams, wanting to help to ensure that all children are able to spend their formative years at Jewish summer day camp.

New at this year’s event, “blinking rings” were sold throughout the evening, as an additional means of fundraising. Donor cards with the header “It’s Never Too Late to Create a Rock Star," encouraged guests to make a donation and get some “bling” through various amounts tied into what a donation can result in for children – a scholarship for one week of summer day camp or one month of early childhood education, and the like. Participation educated guests on the importance of their support since 1 out of 3 children in our early childhood education programs and 15% of camp families receive scholarship assistance. The rings were a fun and clever incentive to donate to the cause. In the early 1990s, a group of loving friends and family established the Irvin Kaplan Children’s Scholarship Fund to honor the memory of

Executive Vice President Joel Dinkin congratulates 2016 Ball Chairs Jennifer Haikin Zach, Amira Grinberg Staller and Lauren Straus Sorkin.

“Our dedicated Ball Chairs, Auction Chairs, their entire committee, our Honorees, Honorary Chairs and J staff all contributed towards creating a fun, fabulous and very successful event,” said Joel Dinkin, JCC Executive Vice President. “The J had a vision 26 years ago that no child should be turned away because of their family’s inability to pay. That message was made very clear by Lauren, Amira and Jennifer, as well as Sandra and Shelton who kicked-off the night’s program by speaking from the heart.” “The evening was beautiful, fun and most importantly very successful. We were proud to play a role in helping to raise money for scholarships for deserving kids,” said Kenny Friedman. Although this year’s Ball is now concluded, the need to help children remains. Donations and tributes may be made in honor of these deserving honorees at erjcchouston.org/csb. Please contact Anita Bormaster, Director of Annual Giving, at 713.595.8192, or visit erjcchouston.org, for information and to contribute to the Irvin Kaplan Children’s Scholarship Fund.

2016 Auction Chairs Melissa Goodman and Abby Ackerman both played a role in making the event a huge success.

Photos by Mark Katz Photography 11

Appeals for Meals:

Honor Mom and Dad

J Meals volunteers delivered more than 119,000 meals to homebound seniors last year. This year, we want and need to do more. To honor your parents this Mother’s and Father’s Day please consider a donation to J Meals to help support the parents in our community who need help. While the meals delivered provide nutrition, the volunteers provide a caring and nurturing check-in that seniors desperately need. Donate today at erjcchouston.org/meals or by calling 713-595-8178

J Meals - Making a Difference

hen you honor your parents on Mother’s and Father’s Day consider helping J Meals on Wheels with your continued support. The senior adults who receive J Meals are moms and dads just like our parents and they deserve to be taken care of just like J Meals has done for Mr. Dawes*, Alice* and Dean*. Mr. Dawes started out as one of our volunteers. He was severely injured fighting with the US Army at the Battle of the Bulge during World War II. He was unsure he’d ever see home again. He eventually returned home and had a career in the petrochemical industry until retiring at 65. That’s when he joined J Meals on Wheels as a volunteer, delivering more than 16,000 meals to a few hundred clients, at least a ton of pet food to hundreds of dogs and cats, and driving an estimated 22,000 miles. His faithful efforts supported our goals to improve nutrition, maintain overall health and well-being, and offer relief from the isolation felt by so many we serve. A few years ago, Mr. Dawes became a client. He would joke with volunteers and say, ‘95% of the meals are delicious, but one time I got something spicy to eat, and had to call the fire department.’ Dawes, who recently passed away, had a 58-year-old son with cerebral palsy who lived with him and helped him deliver meals. They would talk about clients they once delivered to – J Meals was a mitzvah they shared.

Mr. Dawes delivered JMeals to 88 year old Dean, an Army veteran who also fought at the Battle of the Bulge. The two didn’t know each other during the War but became fast friends when they needed one most. Dean has outlived four children, is now blind and debilitated with crippling arthritis which mainly affects his knees. His visits by J Meals volunteers keep him connected to the community. Mr. Dawes also used to deliver meals to Alice, who recently turned 104. Her late husband served in the Army. Alice is still a dynamo who walks on her own and praises the benefits of vegetables and a daily multi-vitamin. Alice enjoys the company that the J Meals volunteers provide. J Meals doesn’t only feed veterans and other seniors like Mr. Dawes, Dean and Alice. We provide a connection to community. Be part of it! Make a donation or volunteer today, contact Timothy Stewart at tstewart@erjcchouston.org or 713.595.8178.

To find out how you can help, please visit erjcchouston.org/meals or contact Timothy Stewart at tstewart@erjcchouston.org or 713.729.3200 ext. 3251. *Names have been changed to protect clients’ privacy.

Try Something New this Summer! Learn a new skill, explore an interest, refine your talent. Register now for these exciting summer classes! Space is limited.

Aquatics

Art

Infant/Toddler Swim Lessons Refresher Courses Private Lessons Fun Competitive Swim Team

Sports & Rec

Dance

Youth Sports Krav Maga Adult Men’s Basketball Table Tennis Pickleball

Dancing Tots Dancing 3s and 4s Tap and Jazz (1–3 GR)

ADULT CLASSES Ceramic Wheel Throwing Ceramic Handbuilding Beginning Painting Studio Painting

Gymnastics

Mighty Munchkins TumbleBugs Beginner/Advanced Teen/Adult Gymnastics

CHILDREN'S CLASSES Ceramics K-5th

Tennis

Youth, Intermediate and Adult Tennis Lessons Tennis Fundamentals Men/Women Leagues Private Lessons

For more information or to register, visit erjcchouston.org.

MAKE SUMMER HEALTHY

Take advantage of a Fitness Membership all summer long for as low As $288. (May 16–September 4)

Health, sports & fitness members enjoy unlimited access to over 75 free drop-in fitness classes weekly. Drop-in Classes Include: BALL MAT BLAST BARRE BODYPUMP® BOOST CARDIO CIRCUIT CARDIO COMBO CARDIO DANCE DEEP WATER FITNESS HATHA YOGA

GROUP STRENGTH PILATES POWER FLOW YOGA SENIOR WATER FITNESS CYCLE STUDIO STAY YOUNG THROUGH FITNESS ZUMBA®

FREE 2-WEEK TRIAL MEMBERSHIP Evelyn Rubenstein JCC Fitness Center Use our state-of-the-art fitness center, tennis center, pool, and try any of our group exercise classes. Valid for first time visitors only. Must be 18 years or older. Other restrictions may apply.

For more information call 713.729.3200 or visit erjcchouston.org.

Tributes

Thank You to our Generous Donors! We would like to extend our sincere thanks to our many individual, corporate and foundation donors whose generous ongoing support helps the J continue to be a vital community asset.

ADULT MITZVAH FUND

In honor of Esther Bethke – Maryellen McSweeney In memory of David Cohen – Trudy & Hy Applebaum – Florence & Walter Dubov – Gladys Kaplan – Jean & Merv Rosenbaum – Debbie & Sid Sheinberg In honor of Joel Dinkin’s 60th birthday – Morgan & Kevin Steinberg In memory of Alice Foy – Gladys Halton In memory of Harry Halpin – Ellen & Dan Trachtenberg In honor of Leon Horowitz on his birthday, with wishes for a very happy one – Rose Hurwitz In memory of Irv Oppman – Ina & Hal Muchnick In honor of Cookie Portnoy on her speedy recovery – Rozie Seltzer In honor of Merv Rosenbaum with wishes for a Happy Hanukkah! – Love, your kids and grandkids In honor of the J’s fine programs and food available to Evelyn Rubenstein JCC members – Emily Spector

ANN & STEPHEN KAUFMAN JEWISH EDUCATION FUND

In honor of Stephen Kaufman on his speedy recovery – Cherill Dubinski – Sheila & Jerry Kaplan – Kathy & Stephen Parven In honor of Rabbi Jill Levy – Robert Eigler In honor of Rabbi Jason Rubenstein on receiving 2015 Covenant Foundation Pomegranate Prize for Emerging Jewish Educators – Deborah & Martin Kagan

CHILDREN’S SCHOLARSHIP BALL In honor of Ann and Kenny Friedman – Madeleine & Michael Appel – Sue Sue & Don Aron – Laurette Bauarschi – Jenny Elkins – Jeri Amundsen & Arthur Feldman – Friedman Foundation – Martha & Donald Freedman – Adrienne & Walter Hecht – Patti & Dr. Edward Hurwitz – Carolyn & Jay Kaplan – Rabbi Sam & Joan Karff – Janiece Longoria & Steve Lasher – Lainie Gordon & David Mincberg – Terri & Steven Snyder – Andrea & William White In honor of Joy and Joe Kaplan – Isabelle & Eric Mayer In honor of Debbie and Rick Kaplan – Robin & Rodney Roth – Tara & Steven Sondock In honor of Nancy Lerner – Janet & Jeff Pozmantier In honor of Erica and Benjy Levit – Sue Sue & Don Aron – Sandy & Lucky Burke – Martha & Donald Freedman – Fran Friedman – Terri & John Havens – Punkin & Walter Hecht – Abigail & Marshall Levit – Lee Herman/The Edward and Helen Oppenheimer Foundation – Robin & Rodney Roth – Tara & Steven Sondock – Linda & Ronald Turboff In honor of Joyce and Butch Schechter – Sue Sue & Don Aron In honor of Lauren Sorkin – Abby & Jay Bruggeman – Shelley & Jeremy Sorkin

Bronze statue of Evelyn Rubenstein in the lobby

In honor of Amira Staller – Lauren & Josh Hill – Minette Hiller – Elizabeth & Scott Rubinsky In honor of Jennifer Haikin Zach – Sharon & Seth Ellerin In honor of Lauren Sorkin, Amira Staller, Jennifer Haikin Zach, Abby Ackerman, Melissa Goodman, Nancy Lerner, Roslyn Haikin, Wendy Bernstein, Anita Bormaster, Michelle Frankfort, Marc Gessner, Melissa Gordon, Anna Shabtay & Judy Weil for your outstanding work on the 2016 Children’s Scholarship Ball – Elena & Joel Dinkin

DANCE MONTH FUND In honor of Hilda Frank – Janet & Elton Lipnick

EVELYN RUBENSTEIN JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER OF HOUSTON FUND In memory of Ira Brown – Mark Bryan

GENERAL TRIBUTES

In honor of my wife, Linda – Philip Boyko In memory of Ira Brown – Barbara Barclay – Sandra Weiner In memory of Michael Camberg – Theba & Buster Feldman In memory of David Cohen – Sarita & David Cooper – Gail Hartstein In memory of Marlene Cohen – Theba & Buster Feldman In honor of Joel Dinkin on his 60th birthday – Rachael & Bruce Rosen In memory of Eva Dubin – Lisa & Alan Lipman – Judy Weil & Barry Solomon

In memory of Abe Friedman – Judy Weil In memory of Ebbie Goot – Theba & Buster Feldman In memory of Earl Gorel – Theba & Buster Feldman In memory of Dr. Perry Gross – Anita Bormaster – Iris & David Littwitz In memory of Harry Halpin – Theba & Buster Feldman In memory of Harold Kaminsky – Barbara & Stuart Aaron In memory of Lionel Katzenellenbogen – Lisa & Alan Lipman In honor of Stephen Kaufman on his recovery – Linda & Jerry Rubenstein In memory of Ernie Meyerson – Theba & Buster Feldman – Sherry & Gerald Merfish In memory of Ellyne Krakower Rice – Theba & Buster Feldman In honor of Bobbi and Vic Samuels – Ruth W. Brodsky In memory of Susan Schultz – Theba & Buster Feldman In memory of Faye Tucker – Theba & Buster Feldman In memory of Bernice Wagman – Theba & Buster Feldman In honor of Barbara Winthrop, the new 2016 ASHT President-Elect – Dorit & Marty Aaron

GERALD RAUCH MEMORIAL FUND

In honor of Sally Fuchs on her birthday – Lila Rauch In honor of Sally and Bernard Fuchs on their anniversary – Lila Rauch In memory of Gerald Lee Katz –Lila Rauch

For corrections or to make a donation, please contact our Development Department at 713.551.7219.

GIVING TREE CAMPAIGN FUND

In honor of all the teachers who have touched our children’s lives – Marnie Axelrad & David Schwartz In honor of all who make BAS such a wonderful place – Danielle, Michael, Jonah & Ari Carlson In honor of my grandson, Charlie Bormaster – Cindy Blustein In honor of Aerin and Blair Carstensen – Richard Wolf In honor of Grace Cook – Stacey & John Cook In honor of Mallory Gould – Erin Gould In honor of Elijah, Chloe & Emma Hermann – Bryan Hermann & Family In honor of Levi and Josephine Kasner – Judy & Sheldon Brookman In honor of Avery and The Dolphins – Michelle Muscat In honor of grandchildren, Avery Muscat and Oliver Friedman – Fillis & Henry Friedman In honor of The Giraffes and Pandas – Amy Franklin In honor of Brooks and Jack Perry – Tracy Katz In honor of Emily and Liat – Mitzi Shure & Jerry Wische In honor of Ari Schlossberg – Marilyn & Don Schlossberg In honor of Gabriel, Simon and Jonah Rose – Stacey & Brian Rose In honor of Noam, Sarit and Matan –Harriet Schlueter In honor of Eytan and Eliya – Anna & Erez Shabtay In honor of Ajay Shah – Angela & Dipan Shah

IRVIN KAPLAN CHILDREN’S SCHOLARSHIP FUND

In honor of Ann and Kenny Friedman – Cheryl & Haran Levy In honor of Erica and Benjy Levit – Marilyn Hassid In memory of Brenda Spira – Joy & Joseph Kaplan In honor of Jennifer Haikin Zach – Marilyn Hassid

JEWISH ARTS AND CULTURE FUND

In honor of Paula Baker – Shifra & Terry Gardner In memory of Harry Halpin, father of Gayle Rockoff – Joyce & Robert Gilbert In honor of Mervin Rosenbaum – Barry Rosenbaum In memory of Fannie Weil, mother of Judy Weil – – Joyce & Robert Gilbert

J-SERVE

In honor of Sara Speer Selber – Susan Brokhin

MARILYN HASSID JEWISH BOOK FAIR EMERGING AUTHOR FUND

In honor of Marilyn Hassid on her many years of outstanding leadership and service to the JCC – Abigail & Marshall Levit

MEALS ON WHEELS

In honor of Linda and Larry Blumenfeld on their anniversary – Carol & Desey Desenberg In honor of Joanne and Donald Brodsky – Esther & Gary Polland In honor of our children and grandchildren – Linda & Joel Chess In honor of Rivkah Donin on her Bat Mitzvah – Elena & Joel Dinkin In memory of Eva Dubin – Fannie & Steve Sherman and family In honor of Carol Fox – Joseph & Margaret McCoy In the name of Claudia Gonzalez’s surgery – Ann V. Nunes In memory of Earl Gorel – Norma & Jonathan Hyman In memory of Harry Halpin – Julia Mazow In honor of Leon Horowitz – Doris Joltin In honor of Debbie Kagan on her birthday – Sharon & Arnie Kagan In honor of Debbie and Martin Kagan on their anniversary – Sharon & Arnie Kagan In honor of Sharon Turboff Katz and Marvin Katz on their birthdays – Paula Eisenstein Baker – Joanne & Mike Deutsch – Sharon E. Katz – Karol & Daniel Musher – Leslie Weiner & Family In memory of Lionel Katzenellenbogen – Karol & Daniel Musher In honor of Ellen Kleinman on a speedy recovery – Sandy & Joe Kirk In memory of Sidney Krakower – Karen & Buster Freedman In honor of Janice Levine on her 90th birthday – Norma & Jonathan Hyman In honor of Mr. Richard Lowe – Carol & Desey Desenberg In memory of Nathan Meltzer – Anne Meltzer In memory of Tokunaga Nakai – Janet & Mickey Frost In honor of Jean Rosenbaum and wishes for a Happy Hanukkah! –Barry, Steven & Susan Rosenbaum In memory of Mr. Julie Singer – The Hirschfeld Family – Shirley & Sig Horvitz In memory of Joe Statham – Janet & Mickey Frost In memory of Beatrice Telesky – Linda Schiffman In honor of Jake Teller on his Bar Mitzvah – Jeff Nachenberg – Natalie Kravetz In memory of Eugene Winograd, MD – Judith Winograd

MERFISH TEEN CENTER FUND In memory of Eva Dubin – Sherry & Gerald Merfish In honor of Sophie and Ellie Gershenwald – Donna & Jeff Gershenwald In honor of Gerald Merfish – Alan Eisenman – Alan Law – Joe Pryzant – Mark Rauch – Max Reichenthal – Scott Rooper – John Rubin – Andy Schlosser – Carl Schmulen

MICHAEL GROSSMAN/ JUDY RICHKER MACCABI SCHOLARSHIP FUND

In memory of Michael Camberg – Vicky & Michael Richker In memory of Eva Dubin – Vicky & Michael Richker In memory of Etta Epstein – Vicky & Michael Richker In memory of Marshall Estrin – Vicky & Michael Richker In memory of Jerry Elliott Finger – Vicky & Michael Richker In memory of Abraham Friedman – Vicky & Michael Richker In memory of Jerome Gottesman – Vicky & Michael Richker In memory of Minda Hirsch – Vicky & Michael Richker In memory of Samuel Joachim – Vicky & Michael Richker In honor of Greg Lewis upon receiving the President’s Award at the 103rd Meeting of Jewish Family Service – Vicky & Michael Richker In memory of Belle Nelkin Margoliner – Vicky & Michael Richker In memory of Ernie Meyerson – Vicky & Michael Richker In memory of Abraham Moszkowicz – Vicky & Michael Richker In memory of Manuel Perelman – Vicky & Michael Richker In memory of Barbara Piller – Vicky & Michael Richker In memory of Jerry Kenneth Robinson – Vicky & Michael Richker In memory of Susan Schultz – Vicky & Michael Richker In memory of Murray Shenker – Vicky & Michael Richker In memory of Ruth Cohen Siegel – Vicky & Michael Richker In honor of Arlene Staller upon her election to President of Congregation Beth Yeshurun – – Vicky & Michael Richker In memory of Fannie Weil – Vicky & Michael Richker

OLIVER LAPIN CHILDREN’S BOOK FAIR FUND In memory of Jerry Katz – Eve & Bobby Lapin

SENIOR PROGRAM FUND

In memory of David H. Cohen – Patti Rinehart & Suellen Rothschild – Ruth & Ray Eagle

SOPH & AL NATKIN STARS PROGRAM

In honor of Sammy Chaskin on his 80th birthday – Linda & Jerry Rubenstein In honor of Steve Gordon on his 75th birthday – Linda & Jerry Rubenstein In honor of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Herzog – Linda & Jerry Rubenstein In honor of Mr. and Mrs. Marvin Kaplan – Linda & Jerry Rubenstein In honor of Dr. and Mrs. Daniel Musher, for their outstanding leadership & service to the entire Houston Jewish community – Abigail & Marshall Levit

SPECIAL NEEDS GYMNASTICS FUND In honor of Marisa Loev – David Loev

OLIVER LAPIN CHILDREN’S BOOK FAIR FUND In memory of Ruth Brookner – Eve & Bobby Lapin In memory of Eva Dubin – Eve & Bobby Lapin

SUMMER DAY CAMP PROGRAM FUND

In memory of Bernard Abrams – Carole & Jerry Oliphant

*as of print deadline

For corrections or to make a donation, please contact our Development Department at 713.551.7219

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

Community Wide Yom Ha’atzmaut Israel Independence Food & Wine Festival

Celebrate 68 B’yachad*!

Tamar Eisenman

Thursday, May 12 | 4:00 PM-7:30 PM

6:15 PM–7:15 PM | Tamar Eisenman Live in Concert Dj, Kids Activities, and Local Restaurants Highlighting Israel’s Cuisine** *Together

**Food and wine for purchase

To volunteer or for more information visit erjcchouston.org/yomha or contact Nomi Barancik at 713.595.8190 or nbarancik@erjcchouston.org. This is one of many ways we have to connect to Israel throughout the year. To learn more visit erjcchouston.org/Israel.