J-Connections Summer 2011 by Daryl Freedman

HAPPENINGS AT THE JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER OF HOUSTON

NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED BY THE JCC ASSOCIATION

learn how one family’s heart is impacting the JCC!

PAGE 2 Inside Connections FALL OPEN HOUSE

PATRONS OF THE ARTS

KRAV MAGA

MEMBERSHIP SPECIALS

NEW FALL CLASSES

JEWISH BOOK & ARTS FAIR

on the cover

AUGUST 2011

JCC ANNOUNCES NEW NAME E VELYN RUBENSTEIN JE W I S H C O M M U N I T Y C E N T E R

he Jewish Community Center of Houston announces its new name, the Evelyn Rubenstein Jewish Community Center of Houston. The JCC Board of Directors and general membership recently approved the name change as a result of a generous gift from Jerry and Linda Rubenstein. Evelyn Rubenstein was a generous, involved community leader; a businesswoman and mentor ahead of her time; and a devoted and loving mother. “My parents expected me to share and give,” said Jerry Rubenstein, Evelyn’s son. “I was taught that this was my duty and obligation. It is the highlight of my life to be able to do this and carry out their wishes.” “This is a generous and fitting way of giving back to the community and honoring his mom and dad,” said Executive Vice President Joel Dinkin.

“This gift also recognizes how much the JCC means to the community and to Jerry, and how important the JCC will be in the future.” The following quote from Jerry Rubenstein will appear on a dedication plaque inside the lobby:

Everything I am is because of my mom and dad. I’m grateful that my parents decided to pass on to me the responsibility to continue their good work and fulfill their wishes to make this contribution. The Jewish Community Center represents so many values that were important to my mom and dad--family, education, growth, service, and openness to all people and faiths.

From my mom and dad I also learned that you are given only so much time in this world. It is up to you to devote that time to what’s truly important, to those you love and the things that matter most. The Jewish Community Center is the perfect place to remember this. The upcoming month will be exciting for us as we transition to our new name. We will introduce our new identity with a new logo, signs, website address, staff email addresses and more. Throughout this transition, we will keep you updated on all of the details. Stay tuned.

STAY TUNED TO HEAR MORE ABOUT OUR EXCITING NEW LOGO, WEBSITE NAME AND EMAIL ADDRESS

My parents impressed upon my brother and me that it was our obligation to share and give back and that our biggest investments would be through the people we touch and help along the way. We had the best examples; my parents’ quiet generosity in business and the community made a difference in many lives over the course of decades.

! e m o c l e w e n o y r eve

Fall

This is a generous and fitting way of giving back to the community

E S U O H N OPE

W E N R U O T U O K C CHE E N I L N O S E S S A L C FALL e ramguid

.org/prog jcchouston

PM M – 2:00 A 0 :0 0 1 T 21 • Y, AUGUS A D N U S TRATION

REGIS & CLASS

It is a great time for new members to join the JCC, save money and enroll in our wonderful fall lineup. We welcome everyone to come in and take a tour.

on’t delay on registering for fall classes and programs. Fall Open House at the Jewish Community Center of Houston is Sunday, August 21 from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM. Prize drawings and valuable class discounts will be a part of the fun… join us! If you are looking for something new, we’ve got it here for you! Try one of our programs in the Fitness Center including TurboKick®, Boot Camp or Losing it at the J. Experience one of our new dance classes including Hip Hop Fusion, X-Dancing or Bhangra N’ Bollywood. If your children need an afterschool activity as they start the new school year, check out the fall class schedule for a wide range of classes including aquatics, gymnastics, dance, theater, tennis and more.

It's a great time for new members to join the JCC, save money and enroll in our wonderful fall lineup. We welcome everyone to come in and take a tour. From August 21 – 31, we are offering a 25% discount off all General Memberships (certain exclusions apply; joining fees are applicable). Members also have great incentives to have your friends join! Take advantage of the Member-Get-AMember referral program and receive $36 (or more) in JCC Bucks to spend towards your membership renewal or programming! Visit jcchouston.org/programguide to see a complete list of fall classes and programs. Or contact the Membership Office at 713.729.3200, ext. 3220 for additional questions.

new classes include... Ballet 1 & 2 (collaboration with Houston Ballet)

Laughter Yoga Workshop

Bowling League (Gr 5 – 8)

Stage Kids I & II

Engaging Israel Lecture Series

Stroller Striders

Essentials to Basic/Better Photography

Theater Tots

Flag Football (Gr 4 - 6)

JCC Fun Run Club

J-Ball Basketball League 7U, 9U, 11U

U Cre8 (adult crafts)

Stroller Striders

Weekend Warrior Fitness (adult gymnastics)

JCC Fun Run Club

Junior Team Tennis Developmental Training

Judaic Quilting for Beginners

Mommy & Me Music and Movement (preschool dance)

Krav Maga Alliance

Monday Movers and Shakers (preschool dance)

just to name a few!

New Technology and Curriculum A T THE JCC EARLY CHILD H O O D C E N T E R S

he Bertha Alyce and Ellen Boniuk Early Childhood Centers continue to develop young children’s mind, bodies and emotions in an effort to produce individuals who are selfdirected, lifelong learners. Students will now benefit from an enhanced learning experience with the addition of new technology. As a result of generous parental support and other donations, students in the preschool and Pre-K classes will have access to touch screen computers and a SMART Board interactive whiteboard. This new technology contains over 1,100 individualized preschool activities that reflect the latest scientific research for literacy and mathematics concept acquisition in young children. The system identifies the skills students have mastered and emphasizes the areas in which they need additional attention. Powerful features such as personalized digital portfolios involve parents in the learning process.

“I cannot express merely in words my gratitude for our donors who funded the SMART Board systems in our Pre-Kindergarten classrooms,” said Bonnie Kasner, Director of Early Childhood Programs. “Our students’ learning experiences in early literacy, language development, math and science are greatly enhanced by this technology.” Additionally, the Bertha Alyce and Ellen Boniuk Early Childhood Centers continue their commitment to providing a well-rounded educational environment through their involvement with other departments such as Judaics, gymnastics and dance. The new Judaic curriculum, “Fingerprints: Discovering Jewish Life” will be supported by a Hebrew specialist as well as resources supplied by the generous community donations. Some programs have limited space availability. For more information about what JCC preschools have to offer, please visit jcchouston.org or contact Bonnie Kasner, Director of Early Childhood Programs at 713.551.7272.

Students will now benefit from an enhanced learning experience with the addition of new technology. As a result of generous parental support and other donations, students in the preschool and Pre-K classes will have access to touch screen computers and a SMART Board interactive whiteboard.

Joshua Block and Sarah Nitsu

22 , October ber 10 & 24 es: Septem at D g in Upcom o $28 for tw 18 for one/ $ o : tw ce r an fo dv In A one/$38 r: $28 for At the Doo

nd ture arts a nts will fea e v so e d t n u a O s e c nasti Kids Nit ports, gym s y. , rt s a ie p v h o c m a ry at e crafts, a v s ie it v ti . Ac much more

39th ANNUAL JEWISH BOOK & ARTS

Oliver Lapin Family Day Sunday, November 6 • 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM

FEATURING

Chairwoman Michelle Renfrow and Co-Chair Emily Caulfield

Have you seen our video, A Day in the Life at the JCC?

Ellen Leventhal and Ellen Rothberg with illustrator, Bill Megenhardt - Bully in the Barnyard

Craig Parks in Concert

ALSO FEATURING: Kishka for Koppel by Aubrey Davis and Purple Song by Anita Kruse and Lisa Sheinbaum. All family events are free and open to the public with exception for the Craig Parks concert. For more details, please contact Brittany Horwitt at bhorwitt@jcchouston.org. Family Day is endowed in loving memory of Oliver Lapin by his family. The Craig Parks concert is underwritten by the Barbara and Mark Paull Families and the Goldye M. and Samuel W. Spain Children’s Performing Arts Fund.

Scan the code or search "JCC Ho

uston" on YouTube

A TASTE OF MELTON

Melton Adult E d u c a t i o n P r o g r am A c c e p t i n g S t u d e n t s f o r t h e F a l l his past June the Jewish Community Center graduated 46 new graduates of our Florence Melton Adult Mini-School program. Over the past two years, participants have spent two hours a week studying the theology, ethics and history of the Jewish people in the program’s core curriculum. Many of them will continue their learning in September by choosing four from the 16 graduate courses offered each year in Bible, Philosophy, History, Rabbinic Literature, Modern Literature, Cultural Studies and the Holocaust.

Developed 25 years ago by Florence Melton, a businesswoman and philanthropist, the Melton MiniSchool allows participants to explore Judaism in a sequential and compre-

Classes are offered in five locations four days a week including Congregation Emanu El, Houston Hillel, the Emery/Weiner School, and the JCC’s Merfish Teen Center and Weingarten Building. Classes The Melton program allows learners from all are offered during backgrounds and levels of personal practice the day and in the to come together to study in an intellectually evening and are open both to JCC rigorous but non-judgmental environment. members as well as the general public. hensive way without tests, homework “The Melton program allows or grades. The curriculum was created by the faculty of the Melton Center learners from all backgrounds and levels of personal practice to come for Jewish Education at Hebrew together to study in an intellectually University and is pluralistic in its approach. Faculty and learners come rigorous but non-judgmental environment,” said Joel Dinkin, Executive from across the Jewish spectrum and Vice President of the Jewish Commuinclude members of all the congregations of Houston. nity Center. “Offering this program

Symposium S

ymposium: Lifelong Learning Institute classes provide a stimulating intellectual and social environment for active adults. A variety of subjects are offered including fine arts, science, literature, entertainment and economics. Symposium sessions are scheduled in the fall and spring. Our instructors and facilitators teach for the joy and satisfaction of sharing their expertise. Our participants have the opportunity to stretch their minds and pursue new challenges. This fall’s sessions include What’s It Worth? (All That Glitters) and Great Music For Three. These classes

LIFELONG LEARNING

will run on Tuesdays in October. Wednesdays in October the offerings will be You And The Supreme Court and The President and the Jews. For complete class descriptions and to register visit jcchouston.org/ symposium.

ANN & STEPHEN KAUFMAN JEWISH EDUCATION FUND In Honor of the Birthday of Ann Kaufman – Cherill & Duby Dubinski In Memory of Susan Saibara – Martha Barvin In Honor of Esther Polland – Vikki & Rich Evans BERTHA ALYCE CENTER ANNUAL GIVING FUND In Honor of the Pre K Teachers – Pre K Graduating Class 2011 In Honor of the Birth of Ezra Jacob Scott, son of Rabbi Adrienne & David Scott – Rachel Ann & Rabbi Mark Miller/ Congregation Beth Israel CHILDREN’S SCHOLARSHIP BALL FUND In Memory of Max Herzstein – Maxine & Herman Lapin In Honor of Jerry Wische – Lynda & Daniel Greenberg In Honor of Nancy Lerner – Nancy & Richard Freed, Shirley & Hy Warshaw, Fran & Abe Friedman, Charlotte & Larry Whaley, Iris & David Littwitz, Barbie & Don Schaffer, Mimi Levine In Honor of Roslyn & Ricky Haikin – Rita Wise In Honor of the Speedy Recovery of Marlene Farbstein – Kathy & Stephen Parven In Honor of Stanley Rosenblatt – Karen & Joe Stortz DARSKY OUTDOOR POOL FUND In Honor of Stanley Rosenblatt Receiving the Hans Meyer Jewish Communal Professional Award – Leah & Jon Gross DONNA FRANKOFF JEWISH BOOK FAIR FUND In Honor of Esther Polland for Receiving the David H. White Award – Mitzi Shure & Jerry Wische In Honor of the Marriage of Laurie Robinson & Richard Frankoff – Mitzi Shure & Jerry Wische In Honor of Sam Stolbun’s JCC Presidency – Sharon & Dan Brener GENERAL FUNDS In Honor of the 60th Birthday of Shelton Abrams – Peggy & Robert Portnoy

Nine-Week Course on Israel

NEW

Mondays • 7:00 PM October 10, 17, 24 November 14, 21, 28 December 5, 12, 19

Third Annual Rice University Jewish Studies Program Lecture Series

Jews of Spain - Revisited September 12, 19, 26 • 8:00 PM Join us for the third annual Rice University Jewish Studies Program Lecture Series at the Jewish Community Center. This series will revisit, through the disciples of History and Literature, the unique experience of the Jews of Spain in the Medieval and Early Modern Period. William Taft

a stimulating intellectual and social environment for active adults

Tributes

demonstrates how our agency has positioned itself to serve as a central address for Jewish education.” If you are interested in seeing if the program is right for you, come to a “Taste of Melton” on either Tuesday, August 23 at 7:00 PM or Thursday, August 25 at 9:30 AM at the JCC’s Weingarten building. These “tastes” will allow you to experience a sample lesson and get more information about how the program is structured and the topics it covers. For more information about the program or to sign up for the “Taste of Melton,” please contact the Melton Registrar, Naomi Barancik, at nbarancik@jcchouston.org or 713.729.3200 ext. 3288.

$10 JCC Member / $15 Public (per lecture) $25 JCC Member / $36 Public (series pass) This series is made possible by the Maurice Amado Foundation.

The JCC, Congregation Beth Yeshurun, Jewish Federation and Jewish agencies throughout Houston are joining forces to offer an Engaging Israel: Foundations for a New Relationship, a course developed by the Shalom Hartman Institute. Each session will include a video presentation by Rabbi Dr. Donniel Hartman, followed by an interview with an Engaging Israel team member or leading expert on the issue at hand. Following the video, the course continues with an interactive, text-based learning session led by local clergy and educators. Participants will be provided with a textbook developed especially for the course that includes materials to study the Jewish connection to the Land of Israel from biblical times to the present day. For more information or to register for the course, please contact Naomi Barancik at nbarancik@jcchouston.org or 713.729.3200 ext. 3288.

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. GERALD RAUCH MEMORIAL FUND In Honor of Sam Stolbun – Patricia & Mark Rauch In Honor of the Birthday of Doris Katz - Lila Rauch In Honor of the Birthday of Mrs. Bertel Lewis – Lila Rauch In Honor of the Birthday of Mrs. Bernard Mars – Lila Rauch In Honor of the Birthday of Robert Reader – Lila Rauch In Honor of the Birthday of Linda Susman – Diana Brackman In Honor of the 90th Birthday of Morris Glesby – Alma Glickman In Honor of the Birthday of Jerry Katz - Lila Rauch In Honor of the Anniversary of Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Katz - Lila Rauch In Honor of the Anniversary of Mr. & Mrs. Melvyn Wolff - Lila Rauch In Honor of the Birthday of Ms. Edith Reed - Lila Rauch In Honor of the Birthday of Mrs. Paula Friedlander - Lila Rauch In Honor of the Anniversary of Mr. & Mrs. Alfred Friedlander - Lila Rauch In Honor of the Anniversary of Mr. & Mrs. Jay Marks - Lila Rauch In Honor of Esther Polland - Patricia & Mark Rauch In Honor of Kenneth Katz - Patricia & Mark Rauch In Honor of Elizabeth Cohen - Patricia & Mark Rauch HARRIS WEINGARTEN OUTDOOR TENNIS CENTER FUND In Honor of Stanley Rosenblatt – Emily & Albert Stein In Honor of the 50th anniversary of M. M & Carole Feld – Emily & Albert Stein In Honor of the Birthday of Lillian Putterman – Emily & Albert Stein HARRY K. SMITH MEALS ON WHEELS FUND In Memory of Ann Litroff – Patricia Altman In Honor of the Speedy Recovery of Marilyn Smolensky – Alan, Lisa, Meredith Lipman and Shara Gutierrez In Honor of the Speedy Recovery of Bonnie Zieben – Alan, Lisa, Meredith Lipman and Shara Gutierrez In Memory of Robert Firestone – Alan, Lisa, Meredith Lipman and Shara Gutierrez In Memory of Mary Lou Short – Helen Cohen In Honor of Elaine Greenberg’s Birthday – Esther Polland In Memory of Marian Yerushalmi – Iris & David Littwitz In Honor of Iris Caplovitz – Stephen & Cathryn Mellon

In Honor of Millie Segal – Mardi & Mark Kunik In Honor of Carol Swartz – Mardi & Mark Kunik In Honor of Mary Kunik – Mardi & Mark Kunik In Honor of Gerald Merfish’s Birthday – Karol & Daniel Musher In Honor of Dr. Morton Katz – Karol & Daniel Musher In Honor of Rabbi Dan Gordon – Karol & Daniel Musher In Honor of Eileen Weisman – The Altenberg Family In Honor of Mrs. Everett W. Ness – Barbara & Ronald Smoller In Honor of Fay Perry – Sonya & Laurence Pitcaithly In Honor of Sandy Lusky – Rici Miller In Honor of the Birthday of Leni Brooks – Norma & Dick Whitman In Honor of Liz Oppenheimer – Dan, Jess, Sara, & Ron Oppenheimer In Honor of Melanie Keller – Jenny Streeter In Honor of Timothy Stewart for Receiving the Jerry Wische Staff Leadership Award – Mitzi Shure & Jerry Wische, Susan & Ed Septimus In Memory of Timothy Stewart’s Grandfather – Mari Okabayashi In Memory of My Parents, Mary & John Susil, and 4 Sisters and Brothers – Emily Thoede In Memory of Leo Wische – Jerry Wische & Family In Memory of Sallee Loeser – Sandra & Joe Kirk In Memory of Dora Moerbe – Warren F. Moerbe In Honor of Mari Okabayashi – Ann & Doug Tiller In Honor of Gary Beren – Debbie, Stuart & Ilana Diamond In Memory of M. Stuart Goldin – Cindie Lavenda In Honor of Ralph D. Cohen – Joni & Benjamin Webb In Honor of Dr. Myron Friedman – Evelyn Reichenthal In Honor of Max Reichenthal – Evelyn Reichenthal In Honor of Milton Boniuk – Debbie Boniuk In Honor of Louis Balentine – Heidi Balentine In Memory of Sidney Krakower – Karen & Buster Freedman In Memory of Philip Karam – Marsha Hurwitz In Honor of Sandra & Moe Schimmel – Ruth Korn Joseph In Honor of J. S. Wilkenfeld, MD – Leanne, Mark, Merrill & Mason Reiter In Honor of Willie Isaacs – Sharon & Arnie Kagan In Memory of Philip Enish – Diane Puschett In Memory of Sylvan Dubin – Lenny, Sherry, Jordan & Jared Dubin In Memory of Hugo Kahn – Barbara & Robert Sheffield In Honor of Gregg Rosenberg – Beverly & Jake Trachtenberg

In Memory of David Israel Saletan – Jeanne Saletan In Honor of Eliot Gershenson – Jeanne Saletan In Honor of Harris Forbes – Laura Forbes In Honor of Diane & Steve Kaminsky – Helen Mintz & Aaron Marks In Honor of the 80th Birthday of Len Barris – Loretta & Ken Toppell In Honor of Charles William Stroup – Christina Stroup In Honor of Sam Stolbun – Janice Levine In Honor of the Birthday of Ellen Penner – Joyce Greenberg In Honor of the Birthday of Elaine Greenberg – Joyce Greenberg IRVIN KAPLAN CHILDREN’S SCHOLARSHIP FUND In Memory of Herschel Maltz - Joy & Joe Kaplan In Honor of a Speedy Recovery for Steve Brown – Joy & Joe Kaplan In Honor of Dr. & Mrs. Milton Boniuk – Jeanette & Philip Getz In Honor of Esther Polland for Receiving the David H. White Award – Bunny & Perry Radoff In Honor of Elizabeth Cohen for Receiving the Past Presidents Award – Bunny & Perry Radoff In Honor of Rabbi Roy Walter, for his 40 years of dedicated service to his Congregation and to the Jewish Community – Mitzi Shure & Jerry Wische JERRY WISCHE STAFF EXCELLENCE AWARD FUND In Honor of Timothy Stewart for being Selected as the First Recipient of the Jerry Wische Staff Excellence Award – Shari & Joe Epstein, The Comensky Family, In Honor of Dan Steiner, JCC President 2009-2011 – Shari & Joe Epstein, Mitzi Shure & Jerry Wische In Honor of Sam Stolbun, elected incoming JCC President – Mitzi Shure & Jerry Wische In Honor of Elizabeth Cohen for Receiving the Rueben Askanase Past President Leadership Award – Mitzi Shure & Jerry Wische In Honor of Kenneth Katz for Receiving the Rueben Askanase Past President Leadership Award – Mitzi Shure & Jerry Wische In Honor of Stan Rosenblatt for Receiving the Hans Mayer Jewish Professional Award – Mitzi Shure & Jerry Wische, Sharon & Gerald Laderman In Memory of the Father of Sharon Gerber – Jerry Wische & Family

BRILLIANT THINKERS & SPEAKERS...

eborah Kaplan, Chairwoman of the 39th Annual Jewish Book & Arts Fair, was determined to secure opening night speakers that would “wow” the community. She succeeded by bringing together two brilliant thinkers and speakers, long time friends Dennis Prager and Rabbi Joseph Telushkin. Celebrating the 36th anniversary of their first collaboration, Eight Questions People Ask about Judaism, Prager and Telushkin will take the stage on Sunday, October 30 to launch this year’s Fair. Later revised and released as Nine Questions People Ask about Judaism, this timeless book is considered a classic. Their event is sure to open the door for a 10th question and possibly even more that can and should be raised in today’s times.

39th Annual Jewish Book & Arts Fair · October 30 – November 13

Kaplan is Vice-President of Cosmeceuticals for PCCA. She moved back to Houston 7 years ago and became involved in the community, serving on the JCC Board of Directors where she chairs the Marketing Committee in addition to her responsibilities as Chairwoman of the Jewish Book & Arts Fair. She is joined by Co-chairwomen Gloria Bluestone and Irene Weingarten. Bluestone is an estate planning attorney with the firm of Schlanger, Silver, Barg and Paine, LLP. She has worked as a volunteer for the Jewish Federation, most recently serving as a Co-Chair of the Heart to Heart event for the Lions of Judah.

Weingarten is a CPA and has held leadership and volunteer positions at Congregation Emanu El and The Jewish Federation of Greater Houston where she was past Women’s Philanthropy Division Chair (formerly Women’s Division). At the JCC, she co-chaired the 25th Anniversary Jewish Book & Arts Fair and the 2010 Houston Jewish Film Festival. Currently she serves as a volunteer at the Jewish Family Service with Project Shalom. “It’s an honor to chair what is recognized as the pre-eminent Jewish literary and cultural event in Houston. We are thrilled to reflect the broad community nature of this event by once again declaring opening night free of charge. “We expect hundreds of

Houstonians to welcome Dennis and Joseph in this festive celebration of their collaboration and friendship and, of course, the opening of the Fair,” Kaplan stated with pride. The Annual Jewish Book & Arts Fair runs October 30 – November 13 presenting author talks on a variety of topics, films and concerts. Our bookstore features the latest releases, and author signings follow all lectures. Oliver Lapin Family Day on Sunday, November 6 offers programming for children and their families throughout the day. The Fair is underwritten by The Eleanor and Frank Freed Foundation and is funded in part by the JCC Patrons of the Arts. United Airlines is the official airline of the JCC and the Marriott Houston Westchase is the official hotel. Visit jcchouston.org for continuous updates about the Fair. Deborah Kaplan, Chairwoman

PHOTO: JANICE RUBIN

A Bundle of Letters An Exhibition of Art Quilts

Monajat (Fervent Prayer) Galeet Dardashti

CRIME AFTER CRIME

Sunday, September 18 Congregation Brith Shalom • 7:00 PM

Director: Yoav Potash USA, 2011, 94 min.

$18 JCC / CBS Members / JCC Patrons; $26 Public

Sunday, September 25 • 4:00 PM • JCC $8 JCC Member / $10 Public $1 Senior/Student Discount

by Maya Chaimovich

August 19 – October 26 JCC Deutser Art Gallery Sixteen years ago, Israeli-born Maya Chaimovich started traditional quilting and studied at the Shenkar College of Art Design in Ramat Gan, under the tutelage of artist Orna Roglit. She quickly became attracted to a more abstract style and has now exhibited her art quilts all over the world, including Israel, England, Japan, Switzerland and the U.S. Gallery Hours Monday – Thursday • 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday & Sunday • 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

JEWISH ARTS AND CULTURE FUND In Honor of the Birthday of Serra Gordon – The Friends of Yiddish In Honor of the Birthday of Sharon Kagan – Martin & Debbie Kagan JEWISH BOOK & ARTS FAIR FUND In Honor of Esther Polland – Carol & Michael Goldberg In Memory of Paul Mayer – Friends of Yiddish In Honor of Nancy Lerner – Lenny, Sherry, Jordan & Jared Dubin In Honor of Erica Levit – Lenny, Sherry, Jordan & Jared Dubin In Honor of Marci Rosenberg – Lenny, Sherry, Jordan & Jared Dubin In Honor of Gary Markowitz – Weinstein Spira & Company PC In Honor of Betsy & Ed Schreiber, in Honor of their Daughter’s Marriage - Debbie Diamond In Honor of Dan Steiner, in Honor of his Leadership to the JCC – Debbie Diamond In Honor of Sam Stolbun, in Honor of his JCC Presidency – Debbie Diamond In Honor of Ken Katz, in Honor of his Leadership Award – Debbie Diamond In Honor of Elizabeth Cohen in Honor of her Leadership Award – Debbie Diamond In Honor of Esther Polland in Honor of her Leadership Award – Debbie Diamond In Honor of Glenn Lowenstein, in honor of his son, Bram’s Bar Mitzvah – Debbie Diamond In Memory of Jean Schwartz Burke – Mindy & Barry Levinson In Memory of Sallee Loeser – Mindy & Barry Levinson, Cindy & Jeff Abrahams In Honor of Shirley Stein – The Stein Family In Honor of Stanley Rosenblatt Receiving the Hans Mayer Award – Louis, JoAnn, Scott & Jamie Lippman, Lenny, Sherry, Jordan & Jared Dubin MARILYN STEINER MEMORIAL FUND In Honor of the new Great Granddaughter of Mr. & Mrs. Hank Burttschell – Shirley & Sonny Landsberg In Memory of Ben Josin – Shirley & Sonny Landsberg In Memory of Lanny Cooper – Shirley & Sonny Landsberg In Memory of Irwin Selzer – Shirley & Sonny Landsberg In Honor of the Speedy Recovery of Mrs. Lois Goldberg – Shirley & Sonny Landsberg In Honor of the Speedy Recovery of Mrs. Frances Leanse – Shirley & Sonny Landsberg

TICKETS: Buy 2, Get 1 Free!

The JCC and Congregation Brith Shalom are honored to present, Iranian-descended composer and singer, Galeet Dardashti. Monajat (Fervent Prayer) is a multimedia concert inspired by the poetic prayers of Selihot, recited during the month preceding the Jewish New Year as a means of deep reflection and spiritual preparation. To purchase tickets visit jcchouston.org/music.

In Honor of the Speedy Recovery of Mrs. Connie Burke – Shirley & Sonny Landsberg In Memory of Mrs. Jean Burke – Shirley & Sonny Landsberg In Memory of Helen Rosenbaum – Lucky & Sandy Burke In Memory of the Mother of Mr. & Mrs. Randy Block – Shirley & Sonny Landsberg In Memory of Estelle Barzune – Shirley & Sonny Landsberg In Memory of Joanne Berman – Mr. & Mrs. Lucky Burke In Honor of a Speedy Recovery for Mrs. Sally Fuchs – Mr. & Mrs. Lucky Burke In Honor of the 80th Birthday of Mrs. Doris Freed – Shirley & Sonny Landsberg In Honor of the Speedy Recovery of Mrs. Colleen Rothschild – Shirley & Sonny Landsberg MELTON MINI-SCHOOL FUND In Honor of Rabbi Michele Faudem – The Tuesday Morning 2nd Year Melton Students MERFISH TEEN CENTER FUND In Honor of Gerald Merfish’s 60th Birthday – Maxine & Herman Lapin, Beau Merfish, Doris & Jim Toubin, Carol & Harold Asher, Susie & David Askanase, Susan & Kenneth Gindy, Phyllis Cohen & Lewis Linn, Carolyn & Jay Kaplan, Gloria & Buzzy Bluestone, Stanley & Marsha Rosenblatt, Michelee & Bobby Kanz, Kin Kwok Law, Maurice & Emine Simon, Patricia & Mark Rauch, Joe & Gloria Pryzant, LuAnn & Morton Katz MIKE GROSSMAN/JUDY RICHKER MACCABI SCHOLARSHIP FUND In Honor of a Speedy Recovery for Roberto Eigler – Michael & Vicky Richker In Memory of Jerome Levy Jr. – Michael & Vicky Richker In Memory of Claire Rosenbloom – Michael & Vicky Richker In Memory of Norma Schlueter – Michael & Vicky Richker In Honor of Cantor Robert Gerber - Michael & Vicky Richker In Honor of Linda Goldstein – Michael & Vicky Richker In Honor of Dr. Herman Lapin – Michael & Vicky Richker In Memory of Jerome Levy, Jr – Michael & Vicky Richker In Honor of the Speedy Recovery of Jon Elitzsky – Kathy & Stephen Parven In Honor of Bonnie Herst Upon Being Installed as the Governing Board Chair for National Council of Jewish Women – Michael & Vicky Richker

Gloria Bluestone, Co-Chairwoman

SPONSORED BY: ACLU, NCJW, Shalom Bayit, UH Women's Resource Center

Irene Weingarten, Co-Chairwoman

As the High Holy Days approach, contemplate the Jewish values of teshuva, tzedek, and chesed as they are explored in Crime After Crime. Debbie Peagler is serving a 25 years to life sentence for her connection to the murder of the man who brutally abused her, and two lawyers find themselves fighting injustice after injustice in the attempt to lessen her sentence.

In Memory of Louis Goldfaden – Michael & Vicky Richker In Honor of the Birthday of Joani Grossman Steffens – Michael & Vicky Richker In Memory of Sallee Cohen Loeser – Michael & Vicky Richker In Memory of Barry Alan Provada – Michael & Vicky Richker In Memory of Robert “Bob” Shapiro – Michael & Vicky Richker In Honor of a Speedy Recovery for Lorraine Horwitz – Michael & Vicky Richker NANCY LERNER SCHOLARSHIP FUND In Honor of Nancy Lerner – Patti & Dan Steiner, Mitzi Shure & Jerry Wische NITE OWLS FUND In Honor of the Birthday of Evelyn Bell – Honey Leveen & Jim Goodale, Marla Turner, Marilyn & Maurice Robinowitz OLIVER LAPIN CHILDREN’S BOOK FAIR FUND In Honor of the Speedy Recovery of Herman Lapin – Kathy & Stephen Parven In Honor of Dan Steiner – Patti Hanfling RUEBEN ASKANASE PAST PRESIDENT LEADERSHIP AWARD FUND In Honor of Elizabeth Cohen for Receiving the Rueben Askanase Past President Award - The Comensky Family, Shari & Joe Epstein In Honor of Kenneth Katz for Receiving the Rueben Askanase Past President Award – Shari & Joe Epstein RONNIE ARROW JEWISH SPORTS HALL OF FAME FUND In Honor of Milton Karp, elected to the Ronnie Arrow Jewish Sports Hall of Fame – Barbara & Allen Pauly, Leon Horowitz, Veda Mae & Morris Glesby In Honor of Stanley Rosenblatt Receiving the Hans Mayer Professional Award – Gayle & Richard Rockoff In Honor of Armand Shapiro – Melanee & David Weiser SOL RUBENSTEIN GYMNASTICS TRAINING FUND In Honor of the 75th Birthday of Jerry Rubenstein – Gail & Louis Adler In Honor of the 90th Birthday of Morris Glesby – Linda & Jerry Rubenstein In Honor of the 55th Anniversary Mr. & Mrs. Alan Rauch – Linda & Jerry Rubenstein In Honor of the Recovery of Larry Lane – Linda & Jerry Rubenstein

STARS PROGRAM In Honor of Mrs. Jerry Rubenstein – Veda Mae & Morris Glesby, Jennis & Irv Kaufman In Honor of the Birthday of Jeri Lyn Sebert – Jennis & Irv Kaufman TRIBUTE FUND In Honor of Elaine Greenberg’s Birthday – Mallory Robinson In Honor of Marc Kasner’s 60th Birthday – Karen & Larry Feld In Honor of Esther Polland – Sarah & Denis Braham, Kathy & Garey Marks, Eileen & Richard Westerman, Nancy & Larry Reader, Maureen & Ellison Wittels, Meryl & Murry Cohen, Laurie & Alan Selzer In Honor of Elizabeth Cohen – Meryl & Murry Cohen In Honor of Dan Steiner – Karen & Bill Rubinsky, Sandy & Jack Turk In Honor of Kenneth Katz – Sandy & Jack Turk

................................................................................ 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 June 30, 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 mrathers@jcchouston.org.

S T R A E H T F O PATRONS To d a y ! on of the Ar ts r t Pa a e m o c e B

CELEBRATING 39 YEARS OF SUPPORTING ARTS, CULTURE AND EDUCATION FOR THE JEWISH COMMUNITY AND HOUSTON culinary arts and study. We initiate, create and collaborate, both in the Jewish and secular arts communities to present timely, entertaining, educational and inspiring programs for audiences ranging from children to seniors, with new, targeted programs specifically geared to teens and our 'Get Cultured' young professionals.” For the first time ever, we’re offering Patrons customized benefits; you decide which Arts & Culture series you’d like to opt into this season – choosing from Annual Jewish Book & Arts Fair, Dance Month, Houston Jewish Film Festival, CJLL Scholar Series and the Family Performing Arts Series – or multiple series based on your level of membership. Patrons are also eligible for special benefits at each Patron level, including many incredible sponsorship opportunities. For more information contact Melissa Gordon at 713.729.3200 ext. 3202 or view the brochure online at jcchouston.org/patrons.

Thanks to generous annual support, our JCC is able to present/screen/ CHAIR: Susan Farb Morris

id you know the JCC Houston has one of the most active, vibrant, year-round Jewish arts and culture programs in the U.S.? “Patrons of the Arts are the benefactors for bringing opportunities to our community to challenge our minds and move our hearts and souls,” said Susan Farb Morris, 2011-2012 Patrons Campaign Chair. “The annual Patrons campaign helps the JCC continue to be a thriving, internationally recognized showcase for Jewish arts, culture and Jewish life and learning,” she added. JCC Assistant Executive Director, Marilyn Hassid, who is entering her 28th year heading up the Arts & Culture Department at the J said “We celebrate our Jewish heritage through an amalgamation of the traditional and the contemporary, local and global, in the realms of music and dance, theater, fine arts, film, literature,

stage such innovative, engaging, thought-provoking, diverse and all-out entertaining Jewish programming each year as:

 37 Jewish Book & Arts Fair author and film programs  28 CJLL (Center for Jewish Living & Learning) programs  18 Horvitz Scholar-in-Residence Lectures  18 Outreach programs (Jewish and general community)  15 Jewish Film Festival feature films and documentaries with the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, plus 3 Summer Israeli Films  6 Deutser Art Gallery Fine Art exhibits including a successful teen outreach juried exhibit entitled “J Teen Arts Scene”  5 weeks of engaging dance performances and master classes by nationally and internationally-recognized dance companies during Dance Month at the Kaplan Theatre  3 programs in partnership with the Rice University Jewish Studies Program  2 music concerts, plus our first-ever “jTunes” a capella group

losing it at the j

t wasn’t just another weight loss program. “Losing it at the J” got people talking, mostly because the contestants are showing off some amazing results. Losing it at the J was an 8-week program designed to enlighten participants on exercise, making healthy food choices and introducing them to Group Exercise or Group training. The challenge started off with 21 people, eight weeks later only 12 made it. Fitness guru and Losing It coordinator Brenda Boyd said the experience was one of the most rewarding programs she ever created. “Everyone who participated saw results from losing just a few pounds to 20 pounds. Some even lost body fat. The winner lost 20.39% of her weight and 11% body fat. The second place winner went from 27% body fat down to 22%. I’m very proud of all the “Losers.” Some quit smoking, some went without chocolate for 8 weeks,

and some exercised everyday,” said Boyd. The biggest loser, Rachel Roberts, said the event has truly changed her life. “Coming into this, I expected to lose a little weight. What I didn’t realize is that I would not only lose weight, but gain muscle I’ve never had before and learn how to eat healthy and enjoy the food I was eating! I’ve also learned how to continue on with a healthy lifestyle so that I will maintain my weight,” said Roberts. At first weigh-in Roberts was at 152 pounds. Eight weeks later she was at 127, going from a size 10 to a size 4. “I began to realize that every meal is a decision we make and that decision is going to determine whether or not the scale goes down the next day. Also very important are the workouts. All of the trainers pushed us further than we could have ever pushed ourselves,” said Rachel. The program was sponsored by Houston Jewish Funeral Services. The winner received one year membership at the JCC Fitness Center.

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THE TOP TEN WINNERS

1 Rachel Roberts 20.39% (27 lbs) 2 Clint Harris 8.52% (15 lbs) 3 Amy Harris 7.81% (10 lbs) 4 Jennifer Bronk 7.5% (12 lbs) 5 Zully Espinosa-Garcia 6.92% (9l bs) 6 Sandra Finkelman 5.95% (11 lbs) 7 Susan Baum lost 5.34% (7 lbs) Learn how 8 Alan Lipman 5.26% (11 lbs) "lose it at you can t Contact th he JCC." Karen Fisher 4.06% (8 lbs) 9 Center at 7 e Fitness 13.551.7211 Denis Braham 2.9% (7 lbs) 10 The formula that the Biggest

Loser® uses is the calculations that were used to calculate percentage of weight loss for “Losing It At The JCC.

I began to realize that every meal is a decision we make and that decision is going to determine whether or not the scale goes down the next day.

K R AV

MAGA

Keeping Fit while Learning to Protect Yourself

f you don’t know the name Krav Maga, you should. It’s an instinctbased, realitybased martial arts program that focuses on self defense. It’s being offered for adults at the JCC this fall, and it just could be lifechanging. Jerome Pokroy, a black belt in Krav Maga, is both an experienced and passionate instructor licensed through the Krav Maga Alliance group. “I’m very excited about bringing Krav Maga to the JCC. The roots of Krav Maga are Jewish, created in the 1940s to help train Israeli soldiers,” said Pokroy. “It’s a very effective system. It’s not so much martial arts but more of a way to deal with a violent encounter on the street. It deals with teaching people how to react under stress using moves your body would naturally respond to in an aggressive encounter.”

Krav Maga means “contact combat” in Hebrew. It is the official self defense system of the Israeli Defense Force (IDF). Krav Maga was specifically designed for men and women to be easy to learn and easy to remember under stress. It is described as instinctbased because the techniques follow your natural reactions under stress. Realitybased means that the techniques are tested under stress to make sure they work on the street. Pokroy integrates the skills so fewer techniques work against more variations in the attack. Participants come to class in regular clothes and wear shoes,

but they can expect high-intensity training aimed at getting fit and building strength. A debut 6-week course at the JCC was a huge success this past spring, with 16 people learning life-changing skills that have given them more confidence and security. Loren Chorn took the class with his wife.“The Krav Maga course was fantastic. It was one of the best experiences for us,” said Chorn. Isaac Lagnado said the course was definitely challenging, but has given him a lot of peace. “The class was a perfect combination of real world self-defense situations along with high intensity fitness drills. Every Krav Maga technique is based on natural body instincts, so

they’re easy to remember under stress. I feel much more confident in my ability to protect myself and family after taking this course,” said Lagnado. “Krav Maga was a great experience. The self-defense techniques that we learned were easy to remember and very practical. I would highly recommend taking Krav Maga at the JCC,” said Marc Stock, another class participant. There is a reason why the Krav Maga self-defense system is preferred by military and law enforcement units around the world. Don’t miss out on Krav Maga classes being offered at the JCC this fall. The course will range from six weeks to semesterlong to one-day seminars. Krav Maga classes will take place Mondays and Thursdays from 7:15 - 8:15 PM at the JCC’s Merfish Center at 9000 S. Rice at the corner of Braeswood and Rice. For more information visit jcchouston.org/programguide or email jeromepokroy@hotmail.com.

THE CLASS IS A PERFECT COMBINATION OF REAL WORLD SELF-DEFENSE SITUATIONS ALONG WITH HIGH INTENSITY FITNESS DRILLS

what’s new at the jcc fitness center?

f you haven’t seen the JCC Fitness Center recently, now is a good time to come by a take a look. Our eagerly anticipated equipment has finally arrived, and we now have an updated look with our new “Experience Strength Line” from Precor. Our users will appreciate the combination of biomechanics and its modern, high-end feel. The entire line delivers a premium workout experience for novice enthusiasts and weekend warriors. The 17 new circuit pieces have been well received by our current members and guests alike and have been used far more than our previous circuit. For users that are unsure or a little intimidated about the equipment, orientations are available for scheduling at the front desk with one of our knowledgeable staff. These orientations are approximately 30 minutes long and are designed to help members learn the basics of the pieces, including what muscles the machines

work and the proper seat adjustment. If you are looking for a more in-depth session with a trainer, purchasing one session for $35 will give you the opportunity to create a personalized program using the equipment. Either option is a great way to familiarize yourself with the new equipment and challenge your body in a new and exciting way! We also have made some additions on the cardio side of the facility by purchasing two new state-of-the-art treadmills by Precor. These treadmills use the latest technology with integrated, touch TV screens. They are the latest advancement in treadmill operations. While exercising, you can plug and play your iPod into the machine and view your music tracks on the screen as well watch your favorite downloaded movie for a personalized experience. If running is not your exercise of choice, we will also be receiving another incline treadmill and a stepmill.

The 17 new circuit pieces have been well received by our current members and guests alike, and have been used far more than our previous circuit. For users that are unsure or a little intimidated about the equipment, orientations are available for scheduling at the front desk with one of our knowledgeable staff.

The incline treadmill is not your ordinary treadmill, with an incline of 30% simulating hill walking or a hiking terrain. Exercising on an incline builds more muscles in the ankles, calves, and upper and lower thighs than does walking on a level surface. The incline of the treadmill stretches the calves, thus building long, lean

muscles. The steeper you set the incline, the more you'll benefit. Our final addition to our facility is the StairMaster Stepmill. The lower body most benefits in strength gain from stairstepping. Using it requires simple balance, but significant strength. Calves, hamstrings, quadriceps and gluteal muscles are trained by lots of repetitions, which is known for building lean muscle and burning fat. Core muscles are engaged by keeping your balance, which is more challenging on the Stepmill than other similar types of equipment. These additions are bringing variety, challenge and fun into our exercise options, and we couldn’t be more excited about it! To learn more about the JCC Fitness Center, visit jcchouston.org or call 713-551-7211.

MVFD

JCC Fun Run Club

J-Ball Basketball League

Stage Kids I & II

Laughter Yoga Workshop

Junior Team Tennis Developmental Training

Weekend Warrior Fitness

on the cover

Ballet 1 & 2

jcchouston.org/programguide

Engaging Israel Lecture Series

Movers and Shakers

Mommy & Me Music and Movement Monday

JEWISH BOOK & ARTS FAIR

Stroller Striders

NEW FALL CLASSES

Judaic Quilting for Beginners

MEMBERSHIP SPECIALS

Essentials to Basic/Better Photography

KRAV MAGA

U Cre8

PAID

PATRONS OF THE ARTS

Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage

Houston, Texas Permit No. 6217

FALL OPEN HOUSE

Theater Tots

JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER OF HOUSTON

5601 S. Braeswood | Houston, Texas 77096 jcchouston.org

USED BOOK SALE AUGUST 21 – 28 $1 PAPERBACK | $2 HARDBACK

Inside Connections

Krav Maga Alliance

1/MO NLY $2 H I PS O

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AUGUST 2011

Flag Football

NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED BY THE JCC ASSOCIATION

Check out our new fall classes online!

HAPPENINGS AT THE JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER OF HOUSTON

Save the Date T H E

J E W I S H

CO M M U N I T Y

C E N T E R 'S

C H I L D R E N ’S

S C H O L A R S H I P

B A LL

22nd Annual

Children’s Scholarship Ball S

Calendar

MARCH 3, 2012

August

The Westin Galleria - Houston

H O N O R I N G

dEvents

2011

BENEFITING THE IRVIN KAPLAN CHILDREN’S SCHOLARSHP FUND

Meet the Teachers (West Houston)

A Bundle of Letters – art exhibition begins

Used Book Sale begins

Fall Open House / Meet the Teachers (BAC)

Indoor Pool Replastering begins

For more information, contact Melissa Gordon 713.729.3200 ext. 3202 or csb@jcchouston.org

Taste of Melton

Gordon Ranch

Used Book Sale ends

Fall Classes begin

EXPERIENCE

Douglas L. Foshee Bobbi Samuels & Ken Simon

the

A FA M I LY P L A C E

Call 877.364.2323 or email Michele Willis at michele@retreatcentral.com

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+

September 5

Labor Day: JCC closed; Fitness & Tennis Centers open 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

PRIVATE OPEN-AIR PAVILIONS WITH RESTROOMS

Melton classes begin

10,000 SQ. FT. AIR-CONDITIONED HALL

Jews of Spain – Redux: Rice University Jewish Studies Series begins

6-ACRE SCENIC LAKE

Kids Nite Out

OVERNIGHT AIR-CONDITIONED BUNK HOUSES

Galeet Dardashti Monajat (Fervent Prayer)

swimming pools • pony rides • petting zoo miniature golf course • paddleboats • horseshoes playgrounds • basketball courts • softball fields • hayrides

Kids Nite Out

Crime after Crime (film)

Rosh Hashanah – no classes after 3:00 PM

Rosh Hashanah – JCC closed

Visit thegordonranch.com