J-Connections Spring 2011 by Daryl Freedman

HAPPENINGS AT THE JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER OF HOUSTON

NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED BY THE JCC ASSOCIATION

on the cover

SPRING 2011

CIRCUS OF THE KIDS DON’T MISS OUT ON THE GREATEST CAMP ON EARTH SEE INSIDE FOR DETAILS TO REGISTER

Inside Connections GOLF TOURNAMENT

MEMBERSHIP SPECIALS

MACCABI V-BALL TEAM

SUMMER DAY CAMP

PRESCHOOL REGISTRATION

AQUATICS PROGRAMS

SUMMER DAY CAMP AT THE J T

DESTINATION

he JCC will be the summer fun destination for hundreds of children in just a few short weeks when Summer Day Camp at the J begins May 31. When it comes to versatility, the J is a great option for parents who want weekly options and the flexibility to chose from a wide variety of camps. Children will get all the traditional summer camp fun like swimming and arts and crafts and will also have the option of trying out some new camps being offered this summer. First and second graders get to choose a Tennis or Gymnastics emphasis in Junior Camp. Third graders will have the option of spending a sleep-a-way week at Camp Young Judea in Camp Kaleidoscope Explorers. Third through fifth graders can also enroll in Magic Camp, Digital Media Camp, Camp Jam KIDZ, Cooking Camp at Rice Epicurean and ISTI Basketball Camp. Children who are in grades 6-8 can sign up for the San Antonio & Austin Experience, Dallas Adventure, Cooking Camp and Camp Jam. Children also have the option of

FOR

SUMMER

specializing in more specific skills in some of our popular specialty camps which include Performing Arts, HipHop ‘til You Drop, Move & Groove to the Beat, Camp WITS, Circus of the Kids, Mad Science, Equestrian and Art. Swimming is not only a daily recreational activity in all camps, but also a daily instructional lesson for every child between the ages of 3-7 years old. The JCC camp swim instructors

FUN

their skills. Kids who don’t know how to swim are practically given one-onone instruction to help them get the confidence they need,” said Debbie Kaplan, parent and JCC Children and Camping Committee Chair. The Babylonian Talmud states that “parents are obligated to teach their children Torah…teach him a craft and some say teach him how to swim.” JCC camps cultivate Jewish values and provide campers with that essential skill. The JCC Aquatics “CAMPERS WHO DON’T KNOW HOW TO SWIM ARE PRACTICALLY GIVEN ONE ON program follows a strict protocol for ONE INSTRUCTION TO HELP THEM GET teaching children how to swim. The THE CONFIDENCE THEY NEED.” objective of level one is to help students feel comfortable in are certified in safety and quality by the water. Level two explores locomothe American Red Cross and maintive skills. Level three builds on the tain a low instructor/child ratio. primary skills learned in level two and “There are not many camps in teaches coordination of the front and the city that make instructional swim back crawl. Other advanced levels such an important component for work on stroke refinement and skill campers from preschool through proficiency. second grade. At the JCC, children can enjoy summertime fun in a tradi Taylor Hunt is Aquatics Director tional camp setting and, at the same for the JCC’s Camp Kaleidoscope for time, learn how to swim or sharpen first through third graders. He says

it’s necessary to successfully complete each level in the progression, but, most importantly, every child is taught at his/her own level. “The JCC has the most qualified staff in the city. Most of our camps have their own aquatics director or leader. We’re the only camp in the city that offers swimming for every level of swimmer, and we have that ability because of our facility and the numerous certified swim instructors we hire,” said Hunt. Summer Day Camp at the J is offering more than 40-themed camp options in one-week increments. Judaic enrichment is interspersed throughout all camps. The JCC has been giving children the ultimate summer day camp experience for more than 60 years and that is why JCC camps are filling up fast. Save a spot for your child today with membership specials as low as $27 a month. For more information about Summer Day Camp at the J contact Randy Comensky at rcomensky@jcchouston. org or call the camp office at 713-551-7208.

YOUR

fun

summer 201 1

destination Jewish law obliges a parent to teach their children Torah and how to swim. Sign up for JCC Summer Day Camp and do both in a loving, caring environment! JCC camps cultivate Jewish values and provide campers ages 3 – 7 with essential swim skills. Our instructors maintain a low instructor/child ratio and are American Red Cross certified in safety and quality swim. Come see why our camps are a stroke above the rest. Visit jcchouston.org/swim or contact 713.551.7208 or rcomensky@jcchouston.org.

JCC Membership Required for Camp ember! Two easy ways to become a m

1 2

Children’s Membership only $27/month* Membership based on 12 mos. Includes camp access. First year joining fees apply.

Summer Family Pool & Camp Membership $398 Includes camp access. No joining fee. Not valid for Fitness & Tennis.

CAMP / POOL / FITNESS

DIVE INTO JCC CAMPS THIS SUMMER! A parent is obligated to teach their children Torah… teach him a craft and some say to teach him how to swim! – Babylonian Talmud, Tractate of Kiddushin 29a

HOT SUMMER DEALS MAKE JCC THE PLACE TO BE!

Limited Time Specials thru May 31

$199 Summer Family Pool Membership ........................................................................... does not include camp access

Add $75/month and receive Summer Fitness & Tennis membership and enjoy unlimited access to over 75 FREE drop-in fitness classes weekly.

Tee-Off with the JCC JCC Golf Tournament - Monday, May 2

he 23rd Annual JCC Golf Tournament, underwritten by Locke Lord Bissell & Liddell LLP and chaired by Abe Goren, will take place at the BlackHorse Golf Club. This golf course is truly a golfer’s paradise and was recognized by Travel and Leisure Golf Magazine. The Tournament is played in a Florida shotgun scramble format for men and women with a tee time of 1:00 PM. The Tournament includes lunch at 11:30 AM, 18 holes of golf, a fantastic silent auction, door prize drawings and an awards dinner. There are terrific hole-in-one prizes throughout each 18-hole course, in addition to prizes for the longest drive and the closest shot to the pin for three flights of players. New title sponsor Locke Lord Bissell & Liddell LLP has signed on to be the tournament’s underwriter for the next three years. “Locke Lord Bissell & Liddell is thrilled to support the Jewish Community Center by underwriting its golf tournament and helping raise money to benefit children of the JCC and their families,” said Ken Simon, Managing Partner of the firm’s Houston office. “Our law firm believes strongly in giving back to the community in the form of civic and community leadership, volunteerism and financial support. We feel privileged to have enjoyed such a close

relationship with the JCC for decades. We strongly believe in all the JCC does every day that enriches the lives of its members and of the Houston community.” Other sponsors include: First American Title National Commercial Services – Lunch Sponsor, Winstead – Dinner Sponsor, SDI Realty – Golf Ball Sponsor, BBVA Compass – Golf Cart Sponsor, Silver Eagle Distributors – Beer Sponsor, Phase Engineering – Beverage Cart, REDNews – Media Sponsor, Wilson, Cribbs & Goren, P.C. – Holein-One Sponsor, and Duplantis Design Group, PC – Goodie Bag Sponsor. Many underwriting opportunities ranging from $100 to $10,000 are still available for individuals and companies. In addition, the Golf Committee is seeking donations for door prizes and silent auction items, and volunteers are needed for 3 to 4 hour shifts. Tournament Chair Abe Goren said “The credit for organizing and chairing the first JCC Golf Tournament goes to Marc Kasner. After playing in the Tournament for several years, I was deeply honored when I was asked to chair the Tournament in 1997. It was an opportunity for me to eagerly give something back to

the organization that has provided so many wonderful and enjoyable experiences to me and my family throughout the years. As most people know, I am passionate about the JCC and the many programs and services that are available to the community. My two daughters, Janet and Haley, received an exceptional preschool preparatory Judaic education at the JCC West Houston campus.” Make your plans now to join us for this wonderful day of golf, food and

fun. Bring your own team of four and challenge the course with other foursomes, or join a team as an individual or as a couple. Player fees are $225 per person which includes lunch, goodie bag, range balls, green fees, cart rental and dinner. Proceeds from the Golf Tournament are used for the enhancement of children’s programming at the JCC. For more information or to register for the golf tournament please visit jcchouston.org/golf or contact Cynthia Whittington at 713.729.3200 ext. 3212. For more information on underwriting and sponsorship opportunities, contact Melissa Gordon at ext. 3103.

TEENS MAKING A DIFFERENCE

he JCC of Houston, BBYO, NFTY, and the Jewish Student Union are partnering to bring the Jewish teens of Houston together for J-Serve 2011. J-Serve, a program in partnership with PANIM: The Institute for Jewish Leadership and Values and The Jewish Coalition for Service is the annual day of service for Jewish youth throughout the world. Jewish teens from throughout the country spend the day joined as one to be a part of Youth Service America’s National and Global Youth Service Day. The theme of the day for Houston is “A*C*T – Advocate, Care and Teach” where we will be providing programs for teens to learn how to be advocates for anti-bullying efforts

in school and around the community as well as doing hands-on projects to help those who are bullied feel better about themselves. “The reason J-Serve is so prominent in the Houston Community is that it directly affects the lives of a large number of teens. The most powerful thing about it is that it is teens in the community teaching and encouraging other teens to reach out and make a difference in the lives of others, and it has become very influential, powerful and meaningful program over the past five years,” said Abby Blachman, J-Serve Steering Committee member. The J-Serve Steering Committee, which includes Abby Blachman, Sydnee Fielkow, Ari Johary, Lawrence Katz, Sam Kusin,

Kali Lang, Jake Lapin, Sarah Orsak, Rose Palermo, Samantha Rosenberg, Andrew Rubenstein and Jackie Schicker have spent months planning to make this year’s J-Serve a huge success. Debbie Lapin and staff from the partnering groups have been working closely with the teens during this time. J-Serve will be taking place on Sunday, April 3 at the Jewish Community Center of Houston, from 1:00 – 6:00 PM. All Jewish teens are invited to attend and lend a helping hand. Teens who participate in J-Serve will receive credit for community service hours. For more information, please contact Eric Bishop at 713.729.3200, ext. 3230.

“The reason J-Serve is so prominent in the Houston Community is that it directly affects the lives of a large number of teens. The most powerful thing about it is that it is teens in the community teaching and encouraging other teens to reach out and make a difference in the lives of others, and it has become very influential, powerful and meaningful program over the past five years.” —Abby Blachman, J-Serve Steering Committee

Circumcise Me

ven though a Brit Milah (ritual circumcision) may be a happy event, you normally wouldn’t think of it as a laughout-loud occasion. Unless you are Yisrael Campbell! He was born funny, but not Jewish, and chose Judaism as an adult. Born Christopher Campbell in suburban Philadelphia and raised Roman Catholic, Yisrael Campbell converted to Reform Judaism, then to Conservative Judaism and then to Orthodox Judaism. In his one-man show Circumcise Me, Campbell shares his Jewish journey, which also includes drug abuse, alcoholism and bombings in the Holy Land, in a bittersweet performance that finds humor in the darkest corners. One of the biggest sources of his good-natured humor

is the rivalry Campbell encounters among the different streams of Judaism. “Yisrael Campbell is the funniest Roman Catholic Orthodox Jewish comedian in the world. Hurry and see him before he becomes a Buddhist!” said Stephen Colbert of Comedy Central. The New York Times review said the performance is “plenty of laughs. Mr. Campbell’s genial and polished recounting is a tale well told.” Now you have the chance to write your own review. After a lengthy and twice-extended, off-Broadway run, Circumcise Me is playing in Houston for one day only at the JCC on Sunday, April 10 at 2:00 PM. Tickets are $20 for JCC Members and $25 for the public. To purchase tickets or for more information go to jcchouston.org or call Naomi Barancik at 713.729.3200, ext. 3288.

UPCOMING EVENTS Travel

Art

YISRAEL CAMPBELL IS THE FUNNIEST ROMAN CATHOLIC ORTHODOX JEWISH COMEDIAN IN THE WORLD. HURRY AND SEE HIM BEFORE HE BECOMES A BUDDHIST! – Stephen Colbert, Comedy Central

To purc h tickets ase g o jcchou ston.or to g or Naomi Baranc call 713.729 ik at .32 ext. 32 00, 88

Language Beginning Hebrew - Level 1 Instructor: Karen Greenspan 10 Wednesdays beginning May 4 (no class June 9) • 7:00 – 8:30 PM $175 Member / $225 Public

Cuba, A Jewish Mission April 20 – 28* or April 27 – May 5 $3199 per person/double occupancy Single Supplement add $475 Join us on this extraordinary mission to Cuba and bring support and aid to the Cuban Jewish community. Meet the children of the ORT Sunday School and advance Jewish practices, ideals and education. Learn firsthand about today’s Jewish community and share their dreams for the future. The spirit of the Jewish community will open your eyes, heart and mind. *Please note that this trip is during Passover. Please call Naomi Barancik at 713.729.3200 ext. 3288 for additional information about this program.

Tributes BERTHA ALYCE CENTER ANNUAL GIVING FUND In Honor of The Ladybugs and The Butterflies – Erin & Jeff Newman In Honor of our 36th Anniversary – Hana & Gabi Karny In Honor of the Birthdays of our children, Efrat & Eyal – Hana & Gabi Karny In Honor of Lauren Getz – Lisa Getz In Honor of Drew & Blake Cohen – Matthew & Tamara Cohen In Honor of Hailey Fingeret – Susan & Alan Cororve In Honor of Brooke Bushong – Blair Bushong and Esmeralda Galvan CHAI GROUP FUND In Honor of Sylvia Gordon’s Birthday – Linda Eisemann, Laya Bloom CHILDREN’S SCHOLARSHIP BALL FUND In Honor of Erica Levit – Barry Kaufman / Stoll-Kaufman Foundation, Jan & Bernard Silver, Patricia & Jonathan Kagan, Debbie Diamond In Honor of Roslyn Haikin for graciously hosting a lovely Founder’s Circle Luncheon – Erica Levit and Marci Rosenberg In Memory of Albert Gaon – Ruth White Brodsky In Honor of Nancy Lerner - Patti & Marc Hanfling, Eva Wolski, Eileen Campbell & Doug Perley In Honor of Marci Rosenberg - Bobbi & Vic Samuels, Debbie Diamond In Honor of Jennifer Zach – Debbie Diamond In Honor of Meredith Schlanger – Debbie Diamond CLUB HAVER FUND In Honor of the JCC, for offering a social program to children who live with Special Needs – Mark & Fran Katzenellenbogen and Family

In the Footsteps of My Grandparents

J Teen Art Scene Annual Teen Art Exhibition

A Photographic View of Israel by Talya Arbisser May 5 - June 3 JCC Deutser Art Gallery

April 4 - May 9 JCC Deutser Art Gallery

Opening lecture and reception with the artist May 5. In the summer of 2010, photographer Talya Arbisser traveled to Israel with Taglit Birthright in an attempt to connect with the land her grandparents had fought for decades ago. The photos she captured reflect the stories she continues to hear of the Jewish state along with her own visual interpretation of modern Israel.

Join us April 10 for an opening reception from 4:00 - 5:00 PM in the Deutser Art Gallery when we showcase Houston Jewish teen artists in the fields of visual art, music and food. All members of the community are invited to attend. See jcchouston.org for more details. Photo: Margeaux Epner

This introductory course is a program of letter recognition, reading proficiency, building vocabulary, and learning basic phrases using the Hebrew textbook series Aleph Isn’t Tough.

Beginning Hebrew - Level 3 Instructor: Karen Greenspan 10 Mondays beginning May 2 (no class July 4) • 7:00 – 8:30 PM $175 Member / $225 Public In this course we will continue to practice reading skills and build vocabulary with a focus on reading Torah.

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 JCC continue to be a vital community asset. DANCE MONTH FUND In Honor of Hilda Frank – Janet & Elton Lipnick DONNA FRANKOFF JEWISH BOOK FAIR FUND In Honor of Sharon Brener, Cathy Jankovic, Mitzi Shure, Estelle Panzer and All Co-Hostesses for Honoring us with a Luncheon – Laurie & Ruth Robinson ELLEN BONIUK ECE CENTER FUND In Memory of Ralph Minchen – Laurie & Milton Boniuk GENERAL FUNDS In Honor of the Birthday of Vic Samuels – Susie & David Askanase GERALD RAUCH MEMORIAL FUND In Honor of the Birthday of Sally Fuchs – Lila Rauch In Honor of the Anniversary of Sally & Bernard Fuchs – Lila Rauch In Honor of the Birthday of Maurice Aresty – Lila Rauch In Honor of Mrs. Gerald Rauch – Lois Frankel HARRIS WEINGARTEN OUTDOOR TENNIS CENTER FUND In Honor of the 25th Anniversary and the Birthdays of Mardi & Mark Kunik – Marsha & Stanley Rosenblatt In Memory of Sadie Krakower – Dorothy Lee Levinson In Honor of the 75th Birthday of Lawrence Kagan – Emily & Albert Stein HARRY K. SMITH MEALS ON WHEELS FUND In Honor of the Meals on Wheels Program and the Sutton Court Homeowners - Carol & Desey Desenberg In Honor of Joanne & Donald Brodsky – Janet & Mickey Frost In Honor of Lauren Kaufman Blachman – Caitlin Prescott

In Honor of my Clients and Friends – Terry Cominsky In Honor of the 75th Birthday of Hans Mayer – Bonnie & Alvin Edelstein In Honor of the Marriage of Hans & Marge Mayer’s son – Bonnie & Alvin Edelstein In Honor of Wanda – Diane & Arthur Knesbach In Honor of the Birthday of Walter Hecht – Carol & Desey Desenberg In Memory of Joseph B. Lewis – Dotty & Lawrence Kagan In Memory of Marcia Massin Burke – Betsy & Ed Schreiber In Memory of Ralph Minchen – Dotty & Lawrence Kagan In Honor of Sharon & Herb Cohn – Roni & Bob Light In Honor of Richard Lowe’s Birthday – Carol & Desey Desenberg In Honor of Mr. Lloyd Fadrique – Carol & Desey Desenberg In Honor of Mari Okabayashi – Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Elo Schoppe, F. Clinton & Jeannie Gambill, Karen & Howard Okabayashi In Honor of Mary Hada – F. Clinton & Jeannie Gambill, Karen & Howard Okabayashi In Honor of Tommie Okabayashi – F. Clinton & Jeannie Gambill, Karen & Howard Okabayashi In Memory of Dolores Miriam – Lisa & Alan Lipman In Memory of Shirley Tabachnick – Lisa & Alan Lipman In Honor of the Birthday of Mrs. Rochelle Oster – Carol & Desey Desenberg I.W. MARKS THEATRE CENTER FUND In Memory of Albert Gaon – Susan & David Morris IRVIN KAPLAN CHILDREN’S SCHOLARSHIP FUND In Memory of Carole Bercutt - Molly Ann Kaplan In Memory of Harlan Stein – Molly Ann Kaplan

In Memory of Mr. Ralph Minchen – Molly Ann Kaplan In Honor of the Birthday of Jack Lapin – Mitzi Shure & Jerry Wische In Memory of Joe Samuels – Mitzi Shure & Jerry Wische In Honor of Dr. & Mrs. Milton Boniuk – Linda & Herbert Lesser, Carol & Barry Goodfriend JERRY WISCHE STAFF EXCELLENCE AWARD FUND In Honor of Harry Greenblatt – Bridge Houston JEWISH ARTS AND CULTURE FUND In Memory of Albert Gaon – Libby & Buz Marvins, Lorraine & Ted Dinerstein, Glen Rosenbaum, Karol & Daniel Musher JEWISH BOOK & ARTS FAIR FUND In Honor of Barbara & Martin Lindenberg’s 30th Wedding Anniversary – Elinor & Jack Goldberg, Marilyn Hassid In Honor of Beverly & David Sufian’s 50th Wedding Anniversary – Marilyn Hassid In Memory of Albert Gaon – Marilyn Hassid In Memory of Harlan Stein – Marilyn Hassid JOE FRANK THEATRE OF THE ARTS FUND In Honor of Alan Lipman – Bridge Houston In Memory of Albert Gaon – Hilda Frank LEO HORVITZ SCHOLAR FUND In Memory of Joseph Samuels – Shirley & Sigmund Horvitz In Memory of Max Herzstein – Shirley & Sigmund Horvitz LOU & GELTA RUBIN VIDEO LIBRARY FUND In Memory of Ralph Minchen – Dorothy Lee Levinson

75 Years

MARKING

he JCC of Houston will hold its annual meeting on Thursday, May 19 at 7:00 PM. This year’s meeting will mark 75 years of committed service to the Houston Jewish community. The annual meeting which the public is invited to attend will provide an opportunity to hear reports on events of the past year and projections for the future. New board members will be elected and leaders and contributors will be recognized for

outstanding service, leadership and community impact. Outgoing President Dan C. Steiner will speak about the state of the JCC and reflect on how far the agency has come in his two years as president and where the agency is today. “Even with recent pressures in business and the economy, the strength of the JCC has never been more visible. We are proud that the JCC has continued to push forward, guided by its mission to bringing Jewish values to life and building a strong, active and sustainable Jewish community. We are proud that we

OF INSPIRING JEWISH JOURNEYS

have been able to increase the level of scholarship assistance so that families impacted by this difficult economy continue to participate in our exceptional childcare, preschool and camping programs,” said Steiner. The program will highlight the creativity and leadership of several key members of the community. The Selection Committee, chaired by Bobby Lapin and Karol Musher, will present the 2011 recipient of the prestigious David H. White Memorial Award, honoring an individual whose life reflects the qualities associated with David H. White during his

lifetime. Awards will also be given to recognize the dedication and commitment to the JCC by past and incoming leadership, including a formal induction of the new president. The evening will also include the election of officers, presentation of awards, and highlighting the agency’s community building initiatives. Reservations can be made by calling Dory Vasquez at 713.729.3200 ext. 3214 or by email at dvasquez@ jcchouston.org. Visit our website for more information about the upcoming 75th Annual Meeting.

Even with recent pressures in business and the economy, the strength of the JCC has never been more visible. We are proud that the JCC has continued to push forward, guided by its mission to bringing Jewish values to life and building a strong, active and sustainable Jewish community. We are proud that we have been able to increase the level of scholarship assistance so that families impacted by this difficult economy continue to participate in our exceptional childcare, preschool and camping programs — Dan C. Steiner, President

MACCABI 2012 GAMES FUND In Honor of the Birthdays and the Anniversary of Mardi & Mark Kunik – Kathy & Stephen Parvin MARILYN HASSID JEWISH BOOK FAIR EMERGING AUTHORS FUND In Memory of the Mother of Naomi Barancik – Julia & Jack Mazow In Memory of Albert Gaon – Julia & Jack Mazow, Eileen F. McGinnis MARILYN STEINER MEMORIAL FUND In Memory of Joe Freed – Shirley & Sonny Landsberg MELTON MINI-SCHOOL FUND In Memory of Pia Baker, Naomi Barancik’s Mother – Gra Gerber, Karen Greenspan, Naomi Shenkar, Bob & Michele Perchonok, Rose Rose, Wendy Lerman, B. E. Clark, Sondra Shapiro, Randee Barasch, Beverly Sufian, Howard Stern, Carol Emery, Paul & Fredi Franks, Susan & Ed Septimus In Honor of the Wonderful Front Office Staff – Judy Abrams MERFISH TEEN CENTER FUND In Honor of Gerald Merfish’s Birthday - Stuart Diamond, The Weiner Family, Eve & Bobby Lapin, Ellen Cohen, Judi & Buz Kanter, Jacqueline S. Martin, Joy & Joe Kaplan MIKE GROSSMAN/JUDY RICHKER MACCABI SCHOLARSHIP FUND In Memory of Esther Schultz Barvin - Michael & Vicky Richker In Memory of Albert Gaon - Michael & Vicky Richker In Memory of Ralph Minchen - Michael & Vicky Richker In Memory of Harlan Stein - Michael & Vicky Richker In Memory of Helen Fagin Steinberg - Michael & Vicky Richker In Honor of Toby Brown for Receiving the JFS Shirley & Allen Becker Leadership Award for 2011 – Michael & Vicky Richker In Honor of Mal Finger for his 18 Years of Service at JFS Senior Adult Services – Michael & Vicky Richker

In Honor of Sheila & Dr. Louis Train on their 50th Wedding Anniversary – Michael & Vicky Richker In Honor of Gail & Gary Swartz for Chairing the Seven Acres Jewish Senior Care Services 2011 Gala – Michael & Vicky Richker In Honor of Sarah & Denis Braham for Receiving the Spirit of Life Award – Seven Acres Jewish Senior Care Services – Michael & Vicky Richker In Honor of Karen & Buster Friedman, President, Board of Trustees, for a Successful 2011 Gala, Seven Acres Jewish Senior Care Services – Michael & Vicky Richker In Honor of Jeannie & Jerry Tiras, whose Granddaughter, Jordann Tiras, Performed the National Anthem and the Hatikvah at the 2011 AIPAC Houston Annual Event – Michael & Vicky Richker In Memory of Amelia Samet Kornfeld – Michael & Vicky Richker In Memory of Habib Tavakoli – Michael & Vicky Richker In Honor of the Birthdays of Leah & Paul Katz – Michael & Vicky Richker In Honor of Myra Weisfeld Sadick upon being elected President of the Meyerland Minyan – Michael & Vicky Richker In Memory of Ronald H. Rosenberg – Michael & Vicky Richker In Memory of Jeanne Daily Vogelfang – Michael & Vicky Richker In Memory of Phillip Dattle - Michael & Vicky Richker NITE OWLS FUND In Honor of the JCC, for offering a social program to young adults who live with Special Needs – Mark & Fran Katzenellenbogen and Family In Honor of Harry Samuelson’s Birthday – Bubba Silberstein PATRON OF THE ARTS FUND In Memory of Albert Gaon – Lorraine & Sidney Brown, Midge Wische

RAYMOND PLOTKIN JCC MACCABI TENNIS SCHOLARSHIP FUND On the Anniversary of Raymond’s 20th Birthday – Elaine & Ronnie Plotkin ROSITA AND ALBERT GAON JEWISH HERITAGE FUND In Memory of Albert Gaon – Patricia & Mark Rauch, Mitzi Shure & Jerry Wische, Harold Goldstein & Loretta Friedman, Martin & Dr. Kelli Cohen Fein, Ann & Stephen Kaufman, Regina Rogers SENIOR ADULT SERVICES In Memory of Pia Baker - Barbara Melnik In Honor of Robert Zinn – Morris Glesby SENIOR COMPANION PROGRAM FUND In Memory of Mary Mc Cauley – Barbara Melnick TRIBUTE FUND In Memory of Albert Gaon – Alyse & Robert Caplan, Susan Glesby, Minnette Robinson Upon the Birth of our Son, Jacob Yale Levit – Abigail & Marshall Levit In Honor of the Birthdays and Anniversary of Mardi & Mark Kunik – Abie & Sharon Charski In Memory of Sadie Krakower – Minnette Robinson In Honor of the 67th Wedding Anniversary of Mr. & Mrs. Morrie Glesby – Gene & Beth Weisberg In Honor of the Birthday of Lawrence Kagan – Bernard Weingarten & Enid Robinson For corrections or to make a donation, please contact our Development Department at ext. 3212.

................................................................................ The Senior Adult Shabbat Dinner Program is underwritten in memory of Paul Lipnick, who was active in JCC senior adult activities, by Janet and Elton Lipnick, David Lipnick and Amy & Myles Kelman. ............................................................................................. PLEASE NOTE: Names and organizations listed in this newsletter reflect donations received by March 1, 2011. 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. 3212 or cwhittington@jcchouston.org.

On Behalf of the President, Board of Directors & Staff the JCC wishes you a Happy Passover!

cirque du J A L L T H E WAY !

he JCCs 21st Annual Children’s Scholarship Ball welcomed 675 guests to the Westin Galleria on Saturday, February 26 for an evening of fun, “Cirque du J” style, to raise money for the Irvin Kaplan Children’s Scholarship Fund. Guests arrived to an exquisite ballroom of tables adorned in classic black and white silk, feathers, glittery masks and whimsical, circus-themed centerpieces. Highlights of the evening included pre-dinner nouveau cirus performers and circus-themed appetizers, a surprise “flash mob” singing and dancing performance led by JCC dance instructor Sweft Washington, musical numbers by young JCC members who are students of Emery/Weiner School music teacher and jazz band leader, Kelly Dean, and JCC staff member and singer extraordinaire Tonya Hall. The evening ended on a very “sweet” note with a magnificent kosher candy bar. The JCC event honored Khambrel Marshall, Nancy Lerner and Leslie Alexander & The Houston Rockets. An inspiring video tribute detailed the Honorees’ dedication and passion to helping children. The three Honorees were presented their distinguished awards by their Honorary Chairs: Leisa Holland-Nelson - President/ CMO, ContentActive; Roslyn Fuchs

2011 Honorary Chairs Ricky & Roslyn Haikin, Karen Jones and Leisa Holland-Nelson

2011 Honorees Khambrel Marshall, Nancy Lerner and Houston Rockets CEO Tad Brown

Dinner entertainment included a surprise “flash mob” performed by The Sweft Feet Dance Company and music by The Kelly Dean Group

Haikin - JCC Past President & Ricky Haikin – CFO, McCombs Energy; and Karen Jones - Chief Marketing Officer Reliant Energy. Ball Chairs Erica Levit and Marci Rosenberg said they came up with the fun theme while watching some of their friends’ children perform in the JCC’s Circus Camp last summer. It is some of those same acrobatic feats that the Honorees perform in the community everyday for their pure passion to help children and families. “Our Honorees and their dedicated Honorary Chairs are truly representative of outstanding community leaders,” said Levit and Rosenberg. “The lives of thousands of young people at the JCC and in our greater Houston community have been positively impacted by their personal commitments of time and resources.” The silent auction was an impressive showcase of the community’s generosity. Auction chairs Meredith Schlanger and Jennifer Haikin Zach’s hard work resulted in a record number of luxury items for bid, which included fantastic trips, a $5,000 Zadok’s gift certificate and some exciting unique experiences from the Rockets, Texans and NBC. In the last two decades the Children’s Scholarship Ball has raised more than $7.5 million. The JCC is committed to ensuring that no

family in need of financial assistance is turned away. “Our amazing Ball chairs, their committee, our Honorees and Honorary Chairs and JCC staff all played an important role in contributing to the success of this year’s event” said Dan Steiner, President, JCC Board of Directors. “They really gave the community a night to remember.” While the party is over, the need still exists. For more information about making a contribution to the Irvin Kaplan Children’s Scholarship Fund contact the JCC Development Office at 713.729.3200 ext. 3212. Thank you to all of the corporate suporters. See list on back page.

2011 Ball Chairs Marci Rosenberg and Erica Levit playing up the “Cirque du J” theme for the event

Pool Parties @ the J Reserve your party by April 30 and save 10%

at the Jewish Community Center of Houston

hether you’re looking for a safe, nurturing place for your preschooler to get comfortable in the water, or a team of instructors who can help your child take his/her swimming technique to the next level – the JCC is the place for you. The JCC only employs swimming instructors who are certified by the American Red Cross and who demonstrate the JCC’s commitment to safety first. Your child will learn

essential water safety skills in a fun, safe environment that is designed to increase personal proficiency. The JCC offers a variety of lessons, including Specialty & Private Lessons, Semi-Private Lessons, Group Lessons and Swim Team. For a complete schedule of JCC Houston swimming lessons, aquatics schedule and swim team programs, please visit jcchouston.org or contact the Aquatics Department at 713.729.3200, ext. 3290.

Is Your Child Safe? COULD YOUR CHILD SAVE HIM/HER SELF? FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: WHITNEY MOORE AT 713.729.3200 EXT. 3116 email: wmoore@jcchouston.org or visit infantswim.com

$270 Party Space

PACKAGE INCLUDES ($300 after April 30)

($75 deposit to reserve your spot)

Set Up & Clean Up Air-conditioned storage available for cake and food items 1 party staff for 2 hours up to 40 guests

(1 additional staff will be assigned for over 40 guests)

Birthday Child T-shirt Pool parties may be held during the summer season May - August at the Darsky Outdoor Pool, Finger Preschool Pool (BAC) or the Splash Pad during specified times. Please call the Aquatics Department at 713.729.3200 ext. 3290 for more information visit jcchouston.org to complete the Birthday Party Request Form.

THIS Year in Jerusalem... Houston Goes to Israel for JCC Maccabi® Games & ArtsFest®

he JCC of Houston will join the best Jewish athletes in the world this summer to compete in the JCC Maccabi Games in Israel July 24 – August 5. You only have to look around the JCC to see Olympic-style training going on in the gym, fitness center and pool. Eleven girls on the JCC Maccabi Volleyball team make up the largest part of the delegation going to Israel. Those players are Joanna Botvin, Sarah Friedman, Rachel Konig, Jessica Liftman, Janine Podet, Lauren Sheena, Megan Sheena, Cara Sheena, Jolie Starr, Elle Wermuth and Savanna Rupf. The teens will be joined by JCC Volleyball Coach Jeff Peters, who has had the girls in serious training mode with after-school practices since February. Peters, who has been heading up the volleyball program the last three years is thrilled to be taking the first ever team from JCC Houston to Israel. “I really love it and volleyball is a really hard game to play competitively. To be able to watch it be executed at a high level is a lot of fun. Teaching, training and helping build the characters of young athletes is a plus,” said Peters. Peters is no stranger to competitive sports, having played basketball in college, baseball in high school

and even a few years on the ice with hockey. As an employee of a sign and graphic company by day, you only need to spend a few minutes with him to know his true passion. And the team has earned two gold medals and a bronze to prove it. Clements High School Senior Jessica Liftman has played on the JCC Maccabi Volleyball team the last four years. “Coach Jeff is awesome. He has done a great job and we’re all really close. He is always telling us to work hard. I don’t play at my high school because Maccabi is more fun and a better experience and I want to devote all my time for that,” said Liftman. And there needs to be a lot of time for the JCC Maccabi Israel team. The team’s first practice in February consisted of an hour on the court and a 1500 meter workout in the JCC pool –that is the equivalent of 60 laps. “I try to take the program to a different place to set the standard for the other programs. Every year when I give them their medals I say thank you for your love and your sacrifice. I’m teaching them that they sacrifice things in their life and then I try to hold them to honor those commitments,” said Peters. Preparing the Israel team has had its challenges. Last year Coach Peters lost a couple key players when they aged out of the program at 16 years old –including Liftman. After

the final game last summer, she and another player came on the court and left their shoes. “The tradition is you leave your shoes for the next generation to fill. It’s very emotional,” said Peters. But Liftman, who just turned 17, got the surprise of her life earlier this year when she learned JCC Maccabi officials extended the age bracket to compete to 17. Jessica will be competing in her 5th year on the JCC Maccabi Volleyball team and going to Israel for the first time. “I’m going have to buy new shoes, but I’m so excited about playing again and seeing the Homeland. I’ve never been to Israel and I have heard about so many great experiences. I’m really excited to experience it on my own for three weeks. I don’t know what to expect – I just know it will be life changing,” said Liftman. The Houston trip includes a bonus six day pre-trip to travel around Israel. This is possible through a grant from the Jewish Federation of Houston. The Federation allocated up to $18,000 to fund the pre-trip so the participants can get an in-depth Israel experience. The Federation is also giving scholarships for those who need financial support to participate in The JCC Maccabi Israel delegation also consists of four basketball players: Jacob Carmichael, Jonathan Gorell, Sam Moulton and Brandon Olifant; four soccer players:

Amanda Atzil, Kayla Smolensky, Andrew Warden and Sarah Witz; two tennis players: Sasha Clonts and Josie Toubin; and one dancer who will perform in JCC Maccabi ArtsFest: Valya Shabot. JCC Maccabi Games are an Olympic-style sporting competition held each summer in North America. Since starting in 1982 as a small pilot project in one host community, the Games have grown into an Olympicstyle sporting competition held each summer in multiple sites throughout North America. The combined Games are the largest organized sports program for Jewish teenagers in the world. More than 5,000 teens participate in the JCC Maccabi Games each summer. This summer, JCC Maccabi Games will also be held August 14 -19, 2011 in Springfield, MA and Philadelphia. It’s the first time the Games are combined with ArtsFest in Israel. JCC Maccabi Israel happens July 24 – August 5, 2011. For information about participating in the JCC Maccabi Israel or JCC Maccabi Games or JCC Maccabi ArtsFest contact Brittany Horwitt at 713.729.3200, ext. 3327 or go to israeljccmaccabi2011.org or jccmaccabigames.org.

I’m honored to take our JCC Houston team to experience, explore and compete in the Homeland at the first ever JCC Maccabi Games and ArtsFest in Israel. We have a great group of talented athletes and artists who have worked hard for this privilege. — Coach Jeff Peters

NOT PICTURED: Elle Wermuth

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The Jewish Community Center of Houston wishes to thank the 2011 Children’s Scholarship Ball corporate supporters. The proceeds from the evening will grow the Irvin Kaplan Children’s Scholarship Fund, which assists families of all religions, races and origins to attend early childhood education programs, Summer Day Camp, after school care and other activities at the JCC.

Gold Underwriters Bank of America / Merrill Lynch Continental Airlines* Frank Crystal & Company SYSCO Corporation Silver Underwriters Chubb Group GEM Insurance Agencies, LP* Leslie Alexander & The Houston Rockets* Swift Energy Company

Bronze Underwriters Boxer Property BoyarMiller Helfman Ford* J P Morgan Chase & Co. KPRC-TV Channel 2* Levy Funeral Directors Locke, Lord, Bissell & Liddell LLP Martin Preferred Foods* Rice Epicurean Markets* The Redstone Companies* Thompson & Knight LLP Triple S Steel Weinstein Spira & Company, P.C. Wells Fargo Bank Texas Winstead PC

*Also contributed as auction donor

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A FA M I LY P L A C E

$5,000+ Auction and Gift-in-Kind Donors A Fare Extraordinaire Art Attack benjy’s Frosch Travel Katia Boutique Kelly Gale Amen Design & Araya Artisan Chocalate Mark Katz Photography Simon Printing Company Sullivan Group The Westin Galleria Victory Packaging Vision Production Group VCI Group Zadok Jewelers

Over 500 companies, organizations, schools and families make The Gordon Ranch their destination of choice, year after year! company/church picnics & events • corporate/church retreats school field trips • conferences • off-site employee trainings team-building seminars • holiday parties special events for groups from 50 – 5,000+ PRIVATE OPEN-AIR PAVILIONS WITH RESTROOMS 10,000 SQ. FT. AIR-CONDITIONED HALL

Call 281.342.9800 or email ranchinfo@jcchouston.org

6-ACRE SCENIC LAKE OVERNIGHT AIR-CONDITIONED BUNK HOUSES swimming pools • pony rides • petting zoo miniature golf course • paddleboats • horseshoes playgrounds • basketball courts • softball fields • hayrides

Calendar April 3 10 12 16 30

J-Serve Day Circumcise Me starring Yisrael Campbell Gleetastic Cooking (7 - 8 grade) Kids Nite Out Merf After Hours: 300 Bowling Night (5 - 8 grade)

May

1 Merf Mitzvah Day: Clean Up at S.E.A.R.C.H. (8 - 12 grade) 1 3rd Annual Houston Family Triathlon 2 23rd Annual JCC Golf Tournament 3 Gleetastic Cooking (7 -8 grade) 7 Kids Nite Out 7 Outdoor Pool Open (weekends) 8, 12, 15 JCCS Presents Once on This Island 14 Kids Nite Out 14 Merf After Hours: End of the year party (5 -6 grade) 19 75th Annual Meeting 21 Merf After Hours: End of the year party (7 -8 grade) 31 Pre-Camp Session 1 Begins

June 6 12 12 13

Visit thegordonranch.com

dEvents

2011

Diamond Underwriter Reliant Energy, Inc.*

Pre-Camp Session 2 Begins / Summer Class Registration Splash Day / Camp Open House – Meet the Counselors Senior Art Exhibition & Reception Camp Session 1 Begins