Jconnections fall 2013 web by Daryl Freedman

NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED BY THE JCC ASSOCIATION

AUGUST 2013

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EXCITING THINGS HAVE LAUNCHED!

Inside Connections NEW MEMBERSHIP OPTIONS

FALL OPEN HOUSE & CLASS REGISTRATION

PATRONS OF THE ARTS

NEW WEBSITE & ONLINE REGISTRATION

FREE FITNESS & TENNIS CENTER TRIAL

MELTON SCHOOL

Becoming a member has never been easier!

he ERJCC is excited to share that we’ve launched our new, simplified membership options. Our membership categories have grown and adapted over time to meet changing demands. We found our old membership options were complex and hard for many to easily understand. In an effort to ensure our new members feel welcome we’ve simplified the

options, increasing the value and benefits to all of our members and providing membership flexibility within households. For existing ERJCC members, your membership and facility access will not change. Existing memberships will not change. However if any current member should choose to take advantage of one of the new membership types, we’d be delighted to assist you.

OUR NEW MEMBERSHIP OPTIONS ARE EASY AS…

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Program Membership is a great way to get started at the ERJCC. This membership provides enrollment access to our various programs and classes.

For more detailed information on membership categories and rates, please visit us online at:

erjcchouston.org/join

Health, Sports & Fitness Membership provides you with all the benefits of Program Membership, plus access to our state-ofthe-art fitness center, group exercise, personal training, massage, indoor and outdoor pools, plus an option to upgrade to executive locker rooms.

If you have questions about which membership is best for you, please contact Member Services at membership@erjcchouston.org or 713.729.3200. You can also visit us in person at the Member Services Office located inside the Fitness Center.

Tennis Membership provides all the benefits of our Health, Sports & Fitness Membership, plus access to our outdoor tennis courts, indoor tennis center, tennis leagues, clinics and lessons.

The New ERJCC Website Has Launched

e are pleased to announce the launch of our newlyredesigned website, erjcchouston.org. We have completely re-vamped the layout to be simple and easy to use. Our website is designed to connect you to the information you need quickly, whether you’re a member or just interested in learning about a specific program or service. You can find programs by what works best for you. You’ll find activities

listed “by Age” and “by Interest” You’ll also find quick and convenient links to building and pool hours, program schedules and a calendar of events. We invite you to join our community and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter and more with the links to our social media accounts in the top right corner. We encourage you to take a look and see all that our new website has to offer.

online program registration Online program registration is another exciting, new feature. Our new and improved online registration system makes it easier than ever to register for classes and programs. Now you can: 

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Check your account balance and transaction history

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Schedule appointments for personal training, private lessons, massage and tennis courts

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Update your contact information

to begin your program search:

Click on Classes & Programs

Continue Shopping or Checkout

offline options available

Visit www.erjcchouston.org

Click “Register Online” next to the class or program

Select an area of interest under the menu options “Activities By Age” or “Activities By Interest”

Select your class and “Add to Cart”

You have now entered our Member Online Services portal and will need to Login (upper right). With online credentials you can become an ERJCC member, register for programs, schedule a personal training appointment, book a massage, reserve a tennis court, review and print your statements and more!

If you are more comfortable browsing through the ERJCC’s printed program guide and calling us to register, that option is always available. Click on “Register” and click “Download the printed program guide” to view the digitized version of our program guide. You are always welcome to come see us to learn more about programs and classes or take a tour of our facilities and learn about new membership options. Whether online or in-person, become a part of the ERJCC, and find out why many consider us their home away from home.

Fall

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E S U O H N E OP & CL

ON I T A R T IS AS S R E G

SUNDAY, AUGUST 25 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

elp us celebrate the New Year at the ERJCC with our Fall Open House, Class Registration, and Family Party on Sunday, August 25 from 10:00 AM– 2:00 PM. Don’t delay on signing up for fall classes and programs at our registration event during Open House! Stop by to learn more about our facilities, NEW membership options, and to take a tour of our facilities. Come have a great time with sweet apples and honey and all of the fun we have in store for you and your family! To help us start the Jewish New Year off on a festive note, we will be featuring a musical concert by Tom’s Fun Band, gymnastics open gym, open pool time at our outdoor aquatics park, and an arts & crafts project centered around our featured art exhibit A Stitch in Jewish Time! All activities are FREE and open

to the community during our Open House hours. If you are looking for something new to try in the Jewish New Year, the ERJCC has got it for you! Explore one or more of our many group exercise classes in the Fitness Center, experience our Mind/Body classes, take part in a tennis league, or choose to participate in Master Swim. And don’t forget about your children! Are they in need of an after-school activity as they start the new school year? Check out the fall class schedule for a range of activities: KidZone, tennis classes & lessons, Meyerland Soccer at the “J”, aquatics classes & swim team, gymnastics classes and competition teams, and a multitude of dance courses. There is so much to choose from, they will want to do it all! Children are eligible to sign up for all of these programs and classes with

our NEW Program membership for only $180/year! Visit erjcchouston.org/programguide to see a complete list of fall classes and programs. Feel free to contact Member

Services at membership@erjcchouston.org or the respective program departments at 713.729.3200, ext. 3220 for additional questions.

Families & Kids

Fun Music for Little Ears! Tom’s Fun Band

Free Family Concert 11:00 AM–12:00 PM

During Fall Open House | Sunday, August 25

Y O U R D A I LY R O U T I N E Enjoy a two-week free trial membership and get familiar with all the ERJCC Fitness/Tennis Center has to offer.

FITNESS TENNIS

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Certified Staff 15 Group Ex Instructors 6 Personal Trainers 2 Massage Therapists

Personalized Services

State-of-the-Art Facilities

Wellness Assessment

Personal Pilates Studio

Nutritional Counseling Personal Training Massage Therapy

Cycling Studio Indoor Pool Group Exercise Classes

Free Fitness Orientation

Personal Training Package Three Sessions for only $99

Specialty Services Free Babysitting (ages 6mos - 7yrs)

Functional Training Equipment TRX™

UNDERSTANDING: What Being Jewish is all about

very week students of the ERJCC’s Melton School of Adult Jewish Learning open a Shabbat message from a fellow classmate. This Melton D’var (word of ) Torah offers insight on the week’s Torah portion through the lens of a member of our Melton community. Some choose to relate the Biblical stories to current events and others discover new meaning in ancient Jewish ritual. For many learners who volunteer to write, this is the first time they feel confident enough in their Jewish knowledge to share their thoughts in such a public forum. “Melton is valuable to all those who would like to ‘fill in the holes’ in their Jewish education, something we as adults are sometimes reluctant or embarrassed to admit we have,” said Carol Emery, longtime Melton student and former Chair of the

ERJCC’s Center for Jewish Living and Learning committee. “The program has increased my knowledge and continues to enhance my understanding of what being Jewish is all about.” The ERJCC’s Melton program includes both a Core Curriculum and a Scholars Curriculum. The Core Curriculum, which consists of four courses taken over two years, provides an immersion into the foundations of Judaism. The Scholars Curriculum provides a host of elective courses which aim to deepen students’ engagement

with meaningful Jewish study. Here is a preview of some of our upcoming Scholars courses… Ayekah (lit. Where are you?) is the cry God utters while searching for Adam in the Garden of Eden. This new course, created by Ayekah: Center for Soulful Education, uses Jewish sources to bring greater awareness into our daily living. American Jews and Civil Rights promises an exciting look at Jews’ fight for the civil rights of African Americans--from the rabbi who

opposed slavery in a southern city during the Civil War all the way to the present. Jewish Mysticism & Kabbalah: Secret Knowledge in Judaism will enable participants to command a familiarity with the rich history of Jewish mysticism, and to understand some of its central texts. Other new courses include: Greatest Hits of the Rabbis, The Truth about Men, Women, and Jewish Tradition, and Bamidbar (Numbers): Leadership Defied and Defended.

Wondering if the Melton school is right for you? Be our guest at any of the following Taste of Melton classes at the ERJCC: Thursday, September 12 | 10:00 AM Tuesday, September 17 | 7:00 PM

Tuesday, September 24 | 7:00 PM

To RSVP, contact Nomi Barancik at nbarancik@erjcchouston.org or by phone at 713.729.3200, ext. 3288. All sample classes to take place at the ERJCC.

UPCOMING CJLL EVENTS

5 th Annual Rice Jewish Studies Lecture Series The Jewish Art of War: A Historical Survey Sunday, October 6 The Covenant with the Gibeonites in Joshua 9: What to do with Biblical Violence Lecture Offered by Dr. Matthias Henze, Watt J. and Lilly G. Jackson Chair of Biblical Studies October 6, 13, 20 at 7:00 PM $10 Member/$15 Public (per lecture) $26 Member/$38 Public (series pass)

Sunday, October 13 Dual Loyalty or Treachery? Jews on Both Sides of the Great Revolt Against Rome Lecture Offered by Dr. Shira Lander, Anna Smith Fine Senior Lecturer of Jewish Studies

This series looks at war and violence in three chapters of Jewish history, Biblical, Roman and Modern, to see how Jews have understood the use of armed conflict to accomplish political and religious ends.

Sunday, October 20 Jews and War: From the French Revolution to the State of Israel Lecture Offered by Dr. Daniel Cohen, Associate Professor of History These lectures will be held at the ERJCC. Contact Nomi Barancik at nbarancik@erjcchouston.org or call 713.729.3200. This series is made possible by the Maurice Amado Foundation.

Tributes ADULT MITZVAH FUND In Memory of Shirley Chaskin – Joy and Robert Friedman In Honor of Donald Brodsky – Evelyn R. Wisenberg

ANN & STEPHEN KAUFMAN JEWISH EDUCATION FUND In Memory of Fredi Weinbaum – Anne G. Levin In Honor of Bobbi Samuels – Erica and Benjamin Levit BOOK FAIR FUND In Memory of Doris Kay Solomon – Sarah Goodfriend In Honor of Donald Brodsky – Libby and Buz Marvins CENTER FOR JEWISH LIVING AND LEARNING In Honor of Bobbi Samuels – Elena and Joel Dinkin In Honor of Bobbi and Vic Samuels – Ruth W. Brodsky In Honor of Bobbi and Vic Samuels – Joanne and Donald Brodsky In Honor of Bobbi and Vic Samuels – Ellen Brodsky Gaber CHILDREN’S SCHOLARSHIP BALL In Honor of Lenny Dubin – Laurie and Alan Selzer In Honor of Lenny Dubin – Sharla Wertheimer In Honor of Minnette Robinson – Wendy and Andrew Bernstein In Honor of Marc Shapiro – Sally and Michael Clark In Honor of Lenny Dubin – Lauren and Walter Carstensen In Honor of Bobbi and Vic Samuels – Susie and David Askanase DANCE MONTH FUND In Memory of Bert Gibbs – Joseph G. Epstein In Memory of Bert Gibbs - Ann & Ken Friedman In Honor of Bobbi Samuels – Maxine and Bubba Silberstein In Memory of Bert Gibbs – Kelli Cohen and Martin Fein In Memory of Kenneth Joy Young – Maxine and Bubba Silberstein In Memory of Rosalie Schwartz – Maxine and Bubba Silberstein In Memory of Hadassah Musher – Maxine and Bubba Silberstein In Memory of Bert Gibbs – Maxine and Bubba Silberstein DONNA FRANKOFF JEWISH BOOK FAIR FUND In Honor of Donald Brodsky – Marsha and Lionel Schooler EVELYN RUBENSTEIN JCC BUILDING FUND In Honor of Bobbi Samuels – Linda and Herbert Lesser In Memory of Shirley Chaskin – Art Ochoa FACILITIES MAINTENANCE FUND In Honor of Sherwin Kershman – Michael Sarabia GENERAL TRIBUTE FUND In Honor of Bobbi Samuels – Ann and Stephen Kaufman In Honor of Gayle & Richard Rockoff – Rosalie Halpin In Honor of Gerald Merfish – Gordon Family Foundation

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 ERJCC continue to be a vital community asset.

In Honor of Bobbi Samuels – Joanne and Donald Brodsky In Memory of Hadassah Musher – Ann and Stephen Kaufman In Honor of Bobbi Samuels – Mignonette L. Mountain In Honor of Bobbi Samuels – Rebecca and Kevin Block In Honor of Donald Brodsky – Barbara and Raymond Kalmans In Honor of Bobbi Samuels – Barbara and Raymond Kalmans In Honor of Bobbi Samuels – Eileen and Joel Yager In Honor of Donald Brodsky – Lorraine and Sidney Brown In Honor of Jerry Rubenstein – Nancy and Gary Glesby In Honor of Lindsay Friefield & Jordan Dubin’s Marriage – Lauren and Walter Carstensen In Honor of Donald Brodsky – Leslie and Sanford Weiner In Honor of Donald Brodsky – Irene and Alex Wolchansky In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Irene and Alex Wolchansky In Honor of Richard Stetzer – Irene and Alex Wolchansky In Honor of Richard Stetzer – Congregation Brith Shalom In Honor of Donald Brodsky – Lainie Gordon and David Mincberg In Honor of Donald Brodsky – Gail and Milton Klein In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Gail and Milton Klein In Honor of Richard Stetzer – Gail and Milton Klein In Honor of Donald Brodsky – Tracy and Gary Stein In Honor of Donald Brodsky – Saundra Turk In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Saundra Turk In Honor of Bobbi and Vic Samuels – Ann & Stephen Kaufman In Memory of Mark Warshaw – Sherry and Gerald Merfish In Memory of Dr. Sidney Wallace – Sherry and Gerald Merfish In Honor of Susan Lapin – Barbara and Raymond Kalmans In Memory of Moose Mandell – Maxine and Herman Lapin In Memory of Mark Warshaw – Maxine and Herman Lapin In Memory of Minnye Shainock – Lynn K. Edelman In Honor of Donald Brodsky – Bari and David Fishel In Honor of Bobbi Samuels – Elyse and Lewis Kalmans In Honor of Donald Brodsky – Hope and Jerome Lipnick GERALD RAUCH MEMORIAL FUND In Honor of Lila Rauch – Robin Susman and Family In Honor of Doris Katz – Lila Rauch In Memory of Irving Gordon – Lila Rauch In Honor of Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Katz – Lila Rauch In Honor of Mr. & Mrs. Alfred Friedlander – Lila Rauch GIVING TREE CAMPAIGN FUND In Honor of the STARS Program – Lenora and Frank Noroski In Honor of Aerin & Blair Carstensen – Lauren and Walter Carstensen GYMNASTICS FUND In Honor of Natasha & Michael Bleyzer – Marian and Gabriel Braun In Honor of Francis Katherine Erwin – Linda and Tim Erwin

HARRIS J. WEINGARTEN TENNIS CENTER FUND In Memory of Dorothy Minchen – Dorothy Levinson In Memory of Helen Atlas’ Grandson – Dorothy Levinson In Memory of Precious Libby – Dorothy Levinson In Memory of Maurice Dubinski – Shelley and Victor Wisner HARRIS J. WEINGARTEN TENNIS TOURNAMENT FUND In Honor of Emily Stein – Sheila and Irv Moser In Honor of Emily Stein – Toby and Jack Segal HARRY K. SMITH MEALS ON WHEELS FUND In Honor of Steffie Odle – Marjorie and Hans Mayer In Memory of Jerome B. Meyer – Majorie Meyer In Honor of Rabbi Estes – Marjorie Meyer In Memory of Shirley Enish – Diane B. Puschett In Honor of Jean Rosenbaum – Susan and Eric Rosenbaum In Honor of Richard Stetzer – Karen and Joseph Storthz In Honor of Libby Herzog – Sandra Herzog In Memory of Mark Warshaw – Linda and Zvi Schiffman IRVIN KAPLAN CHILDREN’S SCHOLARSHIP FUND In Memory of Norma Kerr – Joy and Joseph Kaplan In Honor of Lenny Dubin – Jennifer Leventhal In Honor of Lenny Dubin – Gail and Joel Rovinsky In Honor of Lenny Dubin – Judith and David Bell In Honor of Dr. & Mrs. Milton Boniuk – Philip Getz In Honor of Ed Schreiber – Leslie and Mark Kaufman In Memory of Maurice Dubinski – Joy and Joseph Kaplan ERJCC GOLF TOURNAMENT In Memory of Gerald Goren – Bonnie and Marc Kasner JCC MACCABI GAMES FUND In Honor of Bobbi Samuels – Sherry and Lenny Dubin In Honor of Lenny Dubin – Mindy and Stephen Brown In Memory of Maurice Dubinski – Sherry and Lenny Dubin In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Sherry and Lenny Dubin In Honor of Bobbi Samuels – Sherry and Lenny Dubin In Honor of Sam Stolbun – Sherry and Lenny Dubin In Honor of Ed Schreiber – Mindy and Stephen Brown JEWISH ARTS & CULTURE FUND In Memory of Gerald Rauch – Sheri Feldman In Memory of Shirley Chaskin – Hilda and Robert Frank In Memory of Shirley Chaskin – Celine and David Hecht In Memory of Shirley Chaskin – Kay and Joel Levy In Memory of Shirley Chaskin – Nancy Martin In Memory of Shirley Chaskin – Julia and Jack Mazow In Memory of Shirley Chaskin – Deborah Nadell and Steve Birkel In Memory of Shirley Chaskin – Mary and Fred Young

This class is in conjunction with the exhibit Hassidic Courts which will be on display in the Deutser Art Gallery

Lessons from the Hassidic Courts Instructor: Dr. Rabbi Daniel Horwitz 4 Mondays Beginning October 28 7:00 PM–8:00 PM $36 Member/$50 Public What made Hassidism into a great religious revival movement? What are its most compelling ideas? Meet some of the great masters who gave depth and energy to the new mystical program; study their teachings and their critique of the Judaism of their day; learn about a key 20th century Hassidic teacher and how he persevered during the Holocaust; and consider what might be the future of Hassidism in the modern age.

In Memory of Shirley Chaskin – Lorraine and Sidney Brown In Memory of Shirley Chaskin – Rachel Kern In Memory of Shirley Chaskin – Midge Wische In Memory of Shirley Chaskin – Shirley and Hy Warshaw In Memory of Bob Wagman – Shirley and Hy Warshaw In Memory of Shirley Chaskin – Maxine and Herman Lapin In Honor of Sharon Kagan – Deborah and Martin Kagan KAPLAN THEATRE FUND In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Kathy and Stephen Parven KAROL MUSHER STARS EARLY CHILDHOOD INTERVENTION PROGRAM In Memory of Hadassah Musher – Janey and Mal Finger In Memory of Hadassah Musher – Patti and Dan Steiner In Memory of Hadassah Musher – Gayle and Richard Rockoff In Memory of Hadassah Musher – Sherry and Gerald Merfish In Memory of Hadassah Musher – Patricia and Mark Rauch In Memory of Hadassah Musher – Frances and Abraham Friedman In Memory of Hadassah Musher – Gail and Milton Klein In Honor of Karol Musher – Lydia and Benjamin Musher In Honor of Karol Musher – Rebecca and Jon Gross In Honor of Karol Musher – Deborah Musher and Joseph Menashe LEO HORVITZ SCHOLAR FUND In Memory of Hadassah Musher – Carol and Paul Horvitz In Memory of Joe Potvin – Shirley and Sigmund Horvitz In Memory of Sharon Liss – Shirley and Sigmund Horvitz In Memory of Elaine Elbine – Shirley and Sigmund Horvitz MARILYN LANDSBERG STEINER PRE-SCHOOL FUND In Memory of Isadore Saslav – Shirley and Isadore Landsberg In Memory of Janeen Kelminson – Shirley and Isadore Landsberg MAXINE SILBERSTEIN DANCE FUND In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Hilda and Robert Frank In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Diane and Harry Gendel In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Cheryl and Stephen Golub In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Barbara and Raymond Kalmans In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Sharon and M. Marvin Katz In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Andee and Murray Klein In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Doreen and Ariel Leibovitz In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Jerome H. Levy In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Barbara and Mark Paull In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Susan and Walter Pye In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Karen Rosenthal In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Marjorie and Stuart Rosenthal In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Linda and Allen Rosenzweig In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Janet and Elton Lipnick In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Sally and Charles Pehr In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Ann Plantowsky In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Sue Sue and Don Aron In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Barbara and Norman Frankel In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Janet and Milton Frost In Honor of Donald Brodsky – Janet and Milton Frost In Memory of Shirley Chaskin – Janet and Milton Frost In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Barbara Goldfield In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Henry Peterman

Wait Wait…. big news for the Jewish Book & Arts Fair

RJCC Annual Jewish Book & Arts Fair is a popular two-week community-wide event showcasing prominent and emerging writers in literature, the arts, philosophy, theology, history and current events . This year, the fair takes place November 2-17 and features an eclectic lineup of notable authors, films and concerts. Programs include lectures, readings and panels. Audiences can engage with the presenters during Q & A sessions. Book signing in the bookstore follows author talks. Peter Sagal, author, humorist and commentator, opens this year’s Fair on Saturday, November 2 at 8:00 PM. As the host of National Public Radio’s “Wait Wait ... Don’t Tell Me!,” Sagal is heard by more than 3 million people every week, broadcast on 450 public radio stations and podcasted. Sagal will bring his unique perspective

to looking at the news of the day when he speaks on Why Satire Is the Only Reasonable Response to the Times in Which We Live. Additional programs include Houston Attorney David Berg (Run Brother Run), filmmaker Dror Moreh on The Gatekeepers followed by a screening of the documentary, Letty Cottin Pogrebin (How to be a Friend to a Friend Who is Sick), Marion Grodin (Standing Up: A Memoir of a Funny (not always) Life), and Omer Avital’s Suite of the East ( Jazz/World Music Concert). Admission is charged for most events. Series passes and tickets are available at the ERJCC or online beginning September 1. Become an ERJCC Patron of the Arts and receive access to all programming with reserved seating and special benefits.

Opening Night of the 41st Annual Jewish Book & Arts Fair will feature an evening with Peter Sagal, author, humorist and commentator — Saturday, November 2 at 8:00 PM.

Other Programs Include: Houston Attorney David Berg: Run, Brother Run, Filmmaker Dror Moreh on The Gatekeepers followed by a screening of the documentary, Boston College Professor Matt Sankiewicz: Saturday Night Live and American TV, Joshua Henkin: The World Without You, and Omer Avital’s Suite of the East in concert.

A Stitch in Jewish Time Holiday Celebration Sunday, August 25 10:00 AM—2:00 PM FREE

E V E R Y F R I D AY AT N O O N

A Stitch in Jewish Time: Provocative Textiles August 25—October 18

Turn it and Turn It: Studying the Weekly Torah Portion Instructor: Rabbi Samantha Safran Fridays: Ongoing 12:00 PM—1:00 PM Free Join us for a weekly discussion of the Torah portion using both classic and modern commentaries. No knowledge of Hebrew is required.

In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Lynne and Phillip Aronoff In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Diane and Stephen Kaminsky In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Jo and Aaron Mintz In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Mitzi Shure and Jerry Wische In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Loretta Friedman and Harold Goldstein/Maureen G. Coleman In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Robin and William Ladin In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Terry and Stephen Reichek In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Linda and Myles Goetz In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Ann and Stephen Kaufman In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Michael Kuper In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Eileen and Steven Lee In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Rochelle Pye In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Shellie and Jeffrey Lewis In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Linda and Jerry Rubenstein In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Brenda and Mansel Rubenstein In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Linda and Roy Walter In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Kaki and Larry Buck In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Rowena Young and Myron Steves In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Ricki and Milton Frankfort In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Melissa Gordon In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Jo Rosenbloom-King In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Marsha and Keith Rubenstein In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Tawnya and Rusty Rubenstein In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Jeri Lyn and Jeff Sebert In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Linda and Rabbi Roy Walter In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Bubba Silberstein In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Rici and Harold Miller In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Susan and David Morris In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Marilyn Hassid In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Betty and William Morgan In Honor of Maxine Silberstein – Maureen and William Tarnopol MERFISH TEEN CENTER FUND In Memory of Beau Merfish – Melissa Bondy In Memory of Beau Merfish – Daniel Butterbodt In Honor of Donald Brodsky – Sherry and Lenny Dubin In Memory of Beau Merfish – Audrey and Jim Fussell In Memory of Beau Merfish – Stefani and Andrew Golub In Memory of Beau Merfish – Eve and Bobby Lapin In Memory of Beau Merfish – NSC Marketing Group, Inc. In Memory of Beau Merfish – Paul Comstock Partners In Memory of Beau Merfish – Gayle and Richard Rockoff In Memory of Beau Merfish – Barbara Winthrop Rose and Jay Steinfeld In Memory of Beau Merfish – Ruth Brodsky In Memory of Beau Merfish – Joanne and Donald Brodsky In Memory of Beau Merfish – Ellen Brodsky Gaber In Memory of Beau Merfish – Dolores Wilkenfeld In Memory of Beau Merfish – Nancy and Gary Glesby In Memory of Beau Merfish – Ann and Stephen Kaufman In Memory of Beau Merfish – Susan and Michael Klaiman In Memory of Beau Merfish – Patti and Dennis Frank In Memory of Beau Merfish – Sharyn and David Harris In Memory of Beau Merfish – Julie and Robert Jacobson In Memory of Beau Merfish – Joy and Joseph Kaplan In Memory of Beau Merfish – Susan and W.R. McKinney In Memory of Beau Merfish – Midge Wische

A restrictive garment created of hundreds of sewn-together scraps and fragments of marriage contracts, ketubbot, by Andi Aronovitz

In Memory of Beau Merfish – Beverly and Martin Ginsburg In Memory of Beau Merfish – Margaret Taylor In Memory of Beau Merfish – Leslie and Sanford Weiner In Memory of Beau Merfish – Bank of Oklahoma In Memory of Beau Merfish – Jill and Dale Hurd In Memory of Beau Merfish – Hilary and Don Karchmer In Memory of Beau Merfish – Diana and Todd Maclin In Memory of Beau Merfish – Cathi and Craig Miller In Memory of Beau Merfish – Marsha and Stanley Rosenblatt In Memory of Beau Merfish – Susan Brochstein In Memory of Beau Merfish – Doris and Jim Toubin In Memory of Beau Merfish – Audrey and Donald Evans In Memory of Beau Merfish – Carol and J. Ralston Creswell In Memory of Beau Merfish – Elizabeth Cohen and Mark Toubin In Memory of Maurice “Duby” Dubinski – Elizabeth Cohen and Mark Toubin In Memory of Beau Merfish – Maxine and Herman Lapin MIKE GROSSMAN/JUDY RICHKER MACCABI SCHOLARSHIP FUND In Honor of Dr. Harvey Rosenstock – Vicky and Michael Richker In Honor of Marilyn & Stuart Miller – Vicky and Michael Richker In Memory of Donald Plotvin – Vicky and Michael Richker In Memory of Monte H. Friedman – Vicky and Michael Richker In Memory of Sylvia Turk Tilles – Vicky and Michael Richker In Memory of Hadassah Musher – Vicky and Michael Richker In Memory of Harry Bloom– Vicky and Michael Richker In Memory of Shirley Chaskin– Vicky and Michael Richker In Memory of Beau Merfish– Vicky and Michael Richker In Memory of Ruth Katz– Vicky and Michael Richker In Memory of Louis Fallas– Vicky and Michael Richker In Memory of Milton Mandell – Vicky and Michael Richker In Memory of Dr. Sidney Wallace – Vicky and Michael Richker In Memory of Rabbi Shimon Sadick – Vicky and Michael Richker In Memory of Minnye Shainock – Vicky and Michael Richker In Memory of Gertrude Arfa – Vicky and Michael Richker In Memory of Hilda Aron – Vicky and Michael Richker NITE OWLS PROGRAM FUND IN Memory of Evelyn Bell – Natalie Kravetz In Memory of Evelyn Bell – Bernadean Rosenblatt In Memory of Evelyn Bell – Diane Manning In Memory Of Evelyn Bell – Marla Turner In Memory of Evelyn Bell – Pam and Moshe Vardi In Memory of Evelyn Bell – Stephanie and Howard Loeser In Memory of Evelyn Bell – Robin Beerman In Honor of Donald Brodsky – Carolyn and Scott Davis In Memory of Evelyn Bell – Mina Pashkoff and Perry Vann In Honor of Lucille Golden – Mina Pashkoff and Perry Vann OLIVER LAPIN CHILDREN’S BOOK FAIR FUND In Memory of Hadassah Musher – Eve and Bobby Lapin In Memory of Maurice Dubinski – Eve and Bobby Lapin In Memory of Florence Roteman – Eve and Bobby Lapin In Honor of Bobbi Samuels – Toiee and Daniel Roubein In Honor of Bobbi Samuels – Vicki and Bob Birenbaum In Memory of Jerry Goren – Eve and Bobby Lapin

A Stitch in Jewish Time: Provocative Textiles explores how exceptional contemporary artists apply their skillful creativity to the ever evolving understanding of Jewish values. Individually addressing issues of memory and reflection, interpretations of history and ritual, and links between the past and present, they delve into aspects of the Holocaust, war, patriotism, celebration, prayer, feminism and sexuality, frequently through the inclusion of Biblical texts and sometimes challenging traditional forms. This work is from the permanent collection of Hebrew Union College Museum.

RAYMOND E. PLOTKIN JCC MACCABI GAMES TENNIS SCHOLARSHIP FUND In Honor of Elaine & Ronnie Plotkin – Maxine and Robert Karesh In Memory of Raymond Evan Plotkin – Eleanor Levine RSVP FUND In Memory of Rose Eisenstein – Dianne and James Meyer RUTH W. BRODSKY FUND In Honor of Donald Brodsky – Ruth W. Brodsky In Honor of Donald Brodsky – Ellen Brodsky Gaber In Honor of Donald Brodsky – Cynthia Schneidler and James White Brodsky

In celebration of the upcoming High Holy Days and in conjunction with the exhibit we will be making child friendly arts and crafts. Join us in the lobby of the ERJCC during open house. An Introduction to Knitting Wednesday October 2 & 9 7:00 PM—9:00 PM $50 Member/$70 Public In coordination with A Stitch in Jewish Time, the exhibit in the Deutser Art Gallery, learn basic knitting techniques from Instructor, Macarena Smartt. In this two-session workshop, students will learn how to cast on, knit and purl while making their very own challah covers. Registration deadline 9/23.

BE A PART OF THE TRIBUTES SECTION

Recognize special life events with a tribute to

SOL RUBENSTEIN GYMNASTICS CENTER FUND In Honor of Jerry Rubenstein - Adrienne and Walter Hecht

support a program or fund

SOPH & AL NATKIN STARS PROGRAM FUND In Memory of Mark Warshaw – Linda and Jerry Rubenstein In Memory of Shirley Goldfarb – Linda and Jerry Rubenstein

at the ERJCC. A gift can be

ALANA SPIWAK/SAM STOLBUN FUND In Honor of Sam Stolbun – Tali and Eric Blumrosen WEST HOUSTON CONTRIBUTION In Memory of Jerry Goren - Patti and Dan Steiner In Memory of Gerald Goren – Patricia and Mark Rauch

................................................................................ Elton and Janet Lipnick, David Lipnick, and Myles and Amy Kelman underwrite Shabbat Dinners in memory of Paul Lipnick, an active senior participant, so that other active adults can enjoy the traditional meal and meaningful service to usher in Shabbat. Paul Lipnick enjoyed dining with friends, and his family has chosen this special way to honor his memory. ............................................................................................. PLEASE NOTE: Names and organizations listed in this newsletter reflect donations received by June 30, 2013. Great care has been exercised to ensure the proper recognition of our donors. If an error or omission does occur, we apologize and hope you will bring it to our attention. Please address all corrections with the Development Office, 713.729.3200, ext. 3103 or mrathers@erjcchouston.org.

made for a birthday, anniversary, promotion, sympathy, holiday, graduation, wedding, new baby, bar/bat mitzvah and more.

To make a donation visit the Support the ERJCC tab on our website.

MAKING CONNECTIONS

ischpacha and Me will kick off the Jewish year with an overnight Shabbaton on August 23-24 in collaboration with the Center for Jewish Living and Learning. This program offers our community a unique opportunity for deeper Jewish enrichment, as well as a chance to get to know one another better. Mishpacha and Me will continue to offer monthly community events at venues all over town for families with children ages 0-6. Upcoming programs include a Sukkot event on September 8 as well as a Book Fair on Wheels event in October. The monthly events regularly draw crowds of 40-50 families

and have proven to be particularly appealing for families who are new in town and/or live outside the Meyerland/ Bellaire areas. “I feel so lucky and thankful to live in a city that has such an incredible program,” said Jessica Hassid, whose family recently relocated to Houston from Chicago. “I have connected with so many wonderful young Jewish families. Mispacha and Me has helped my family continue to grow Jewishly and made my transition to Houston a whole lot better.” Additionally, Mishpacha and Me continues to foster smaller, more intimate community events hosted in neighborhood venues and family homes which foster closer relationships for families with common interests. We

EVENTS ALL OVER TOWN FOR FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN AGES 0-6 have had several Shabbat programs in The Heights and have another scheduled for September. “Typical gatherings include 5-10 families, and everyone really seems to enjoy the intimate setting and having the chance to meet each other,” said Todd Lowther, a resident of the Heights and a member of the Mishpacha and Me Steering Committee. “It’s a great opportunity to experience Shabbat with

new friends, and for our children to play together. Plus, as close neighbors, we have more than one common bond.” Expanded Mishpacha and Me programs include play dates for Spanish speaking Jewish families, as well as a Rosh Chodesh group for young mothers. For more information or to get involved in our activities, please contact Anna Abramzon at aabramzon@erjcchouston.org.

MISCHPACHA AND ME IS A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO EXPERIENCE SHABBAT WITH NEW FRIENDS, AND FOR OUR CHILDREN TO PLAY TOGETHER.

ERJCC Lapin Endowment Gift T he ERJCC is pleased to announce the establishment of the Jack and Susan Lapin Endowment. This charitable gift will be used to provide for long term prosperity and growth of the Center. Jack Lapin is a Past President of the ERJCC and Susan was Chair of the Book Fair. Currently both are enrolled in the Melton Educational Program and have been actively serving in a wide variety of Jewish and community organizations. Jack was the Honorary President of the ERJCC when the Joe Weingarten building was dedicated in 1969. Jack and Susan’s son, Bobby, is an

ERJCC Past President and they are the only father/son duo to have served as Presidents. “Our association with the Center has been so meaningful to us through these many years,” said Lapin. “We considered the wonderful services that the Center has provided for our Jewish community through its manifold programs, such as helping families attend the Day Camp and other children’s programs. It is truly a privilege to be a part of and contribute to an institution which has meant so much to our community over many years.”

Jack Lapin is a Past President of the ERJCC and Susan was Chair of the Book Fair

BE A PART OF THE FUN

JCCS presents

GRADES 3–7 Your child can be part of the full-scale musical production of the Wizard of Oz to be performed in the Kaplan Theatre on December 5 and 7 at 7:00 PM, December 8 at 5:00 PM. Rehearsals will begin on Sunday, Sept 15 and continue on Sundays and Tuesdays (tech week prior to performance week may consist of Mon/Wed). Auditions will take place during the first few rehearsals and space is limited to a first-come firstserved basis. For more information about this magical musical production, please contact Program Director Maxine Silberstein at msilberstein@erjcchouston.org or 713.729.3200.

“Susan and Jack Lapin’s gift to the ERJCC is a wonderful affirmation of the outstanding programs and services offered by the J,” said Bobbi Samuels, President of the ERJCC. “An unrestricted gift like this allows the ERJCC to continue to improve and increase our services to the community. I appreciate and respect their generosity immensely.” The Lapins are very involved in many other Jewish organizations including Beth Israel and American Jewish Committee. Jack is an attorney and partner with Schlanger, Silver, Barg and Paine.

Sun 3:00 PM-5:00 PM T 4:30 PM-6:30 PM Sep 15–Dec 8 24 Classes $250m

Don’t miss out on Kids Nite Out: Upcoming Dates:

August 17

September 21

November 9 & 23

December 14

October 5 & 19

PATRONS of the Arts:

nlightening and entertaining! For over forty years, the ERJCC Cultural & Performing Arts programming has brought our community exceptional events that celebrate and showcase our Jewish culture. Be a part of the longstanding tradition by becoming a Patron of the Arts. This year, Patrons will receive access to all Arts & Culture programming as well as recieve an annual program membership ($180 value) which provides member pricing to classes and programs at the ERJCC. “Our Patrons make it possible for

us to bring you the influencers who inspire a world of ideas. From art to business to politics to science to Jewish interests, the ‘J’ is where tomorrow’s important issues are revealed and today’s most intriguing conversations begin,” said Bunny Radoff, Patrons 2013-2014 Campaign Chair. The Arts & Culture program at the ERJCC continues to initiate, create and collaborate to present timely, entertaining, educational and inspiring programs, both in the Jewish and secular arts communities. Audiences ranging from children to seniors will enjoy a diverse array of events.

All-Access Pass Included

Be inspired! Become a Patron and enjoy reserved seating and access to programs including the Annual Jewish Book & Arts Fair, Dance Month, Houston Jewish Film Festival, Music Series, CJLL Scholar Series and family performances. Patrons are also eligible for special benefits at each Patron level, including an opportunity to host a guest author or lecturer and attend exclusive

receptions with artists. The Arts & Culture season kicks off this year with the annual Patrons Brunch, scheduled for Sunday, October 27, 2013. To learn more about our Patron level benefits, contact Larissa Potiomkin at 713.729.3200 ext. 3114 or view the brochure online at erjcchouston.org/ patrons.

BELOW: Carolyn Dorfman creates dances that stem from her background as the daughter of Holocause survivors.

Our Patrons make it possible for us to bring you the influencers who inspire a world of ideas. From art to business to politics to science to Jewish interests, the ‘J’ is where tomorrow’s important issues are revealed and today’s

VIEW THE BROCHURE ONLINE AT erjcchouston.org/patrons.

most intriguing conversations begin. —Bunny Radoff, Patrons 2013-2014 Campaign Chair

Sharing Knowledge…A Lasting Gift

Page to Stage: The Passenger Tuesdays October 8, 15, 22, 29 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Join Houston Grand Opera staff and special guests in exploring the content of Mieczyslaw Weinberg’s 1967 opera, The Passenger, which is based on the 1959 play The Passenger from Cabin 45 written by Zofia Posmysz, an Auschwitz survivor. The discussions beginning with historical background, the play, and HGO’s mission to provide relevant programs such as this one, will offer an insider’s view about this work and our own memory of things past. The opera will be presented by HGO in late January and early February 2014. Facilitators: Sandra Bernhard, Director of HGOco, Houston Grand Opera’s unique initiative to explore ways of making opera relevant to changing audiences. Mena Mark Hanna, is Dramaturg at Houston Grand Opera and lecturer at the Shepherd School of Music, Rice University.

Life and Times of Queen Elizabeth II Tuesdays October 8, 15, 22, 29 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM Gain fresh perspectives on the life of Queen Elizabeth II since she took the throne at age 25 over 62 years ago, including her wedding at the end of WWII, her sometimes controversial husband Prince Philip, her personal life, and her always professional presentation and sense of duty and responsibility to her role in the world. Facilitator: Prissy Roosth developed her fascination about the royal families at an early age. She is an amateur historian and avid Anglophile. She has read extensively and is always happy to share her knowledge and passion. Linda Addleman designed the power point presentation.

Controversial Legal Issues

Jews and Jazz

Wednesdays October 9, 16, 23, 30 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Wednesdays October 9, 16, 23, 30 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Explore current controversial legal issues that impact our lives on a daily basis. Facilitated by experts in our community, investigate some of the great issues and controversy that surround our legal system, including the history and status of current issues.

Through audio clips and discussions, this four-part series will highlight some of the key Jewish players in jazz — performers, composers, promoters, and enthusiasts — and how they helped shape in profound ways what many consider to be the truest American art form.

Facilitators: John Nechman is a partner in the law office of Katine and Nechman L.L.P., where he focuses on immigration law. Randall Kelso is a professor at South Texas College of Law where he teaches and writes primarily in the area of Constitutional Law. Adriana Piñon is a senior staff attorney with ACLU of Texas where she focuses her work on youth rights, immigration and other constitutional issues. Geoffrey S. Corrn is a Presidential Research Professor of Law at South Texas College of Law.

Facilitator: Rabbi Samantha Safran is the Assistant Director of the Center for Jewish Living and Learning at the ERJCC. Prior to her rabbinical ordination from the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College (RRC) in Philadelphia, she hosted two jazz radio shows for a total of six years on college campuses in New York and California.

Learn More, Pay Less If you register for more than one Symposium class, you will receive a $10 discount on each additional class. This discount is not available if you register online. To receive a multiple class discount contact Esther Bethke at 713.595.8186.

1 Class: $28 ERJCC Member / $40 Public

3 Classes: $64 ERJCC Member / $100 Public

2 Classes: $46 ERJCC Member / $70 Public

4 Classes: $82 ERJCC Member / $126 Public