J Connections Winter 2011 by Daryl Freedman

HAPPENINGS AT THE JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER OF HOUSTON

NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED BY THE JCC ASSOCIATION

WINTER 2011

Inside: FITNESS: STUDIO J DANCE MONTH

>> CHILDREN’S SCHOLARSHIP BALL

SUMMER DAY CAMP SPECIAL

23RD ANNUAL BUNNY & LEO HORVITZ SCHOLAR-IN-RESIDENCE PROGRAM

contesting

“The JCC has played a pivotal role, not only in my children’s religious identity, but their social and personal identities. I would hate to imagine being faced with a situation where our children could not be a part of the JCC camp, preschool and programs. In many ways our children are growing into who they will become due in large part to the people, care and programs at the JCC,” said

Dan Greenberg, who has two children who attend Summer Day Camp at the J and one child at BAC. Serving as Honorary Chairs of the 21st Annual Children’s Scholarship Ball are Roslyn & Ricky Haikin on behalf of Nancy Lerner, Leisa Holland-Nelson, President/CMO of Content Active on behalf of Khambrel Marshall, and Karen Jones, Vice President/CMO of Reliant Energy on behalf of Leslie Alexander and the Houston Rockets.

contribution or purchase tickets visit jcchouston.org or contact Cynthia Whittington at 713.729.3200 ext. 3212

1. The Houston Rockets: Honoree 2. Nancy Lerner: Honoree 3. Khambrel Marshall: Honoree 4. Roslyn & Ricky Haikin: Honorary Chair 5. Leisa Holland-Nelson: Honorary Chair 6. Karen Jones: Honorary Chair

the historical, political, cultural, and religious context of this encounter. This opening night lecture is scheduled for Sunday, January 23 at 7:30 PM. Over the course of the residency, Dr. Irshai will offer several minicourses, each focusing on a different aspect of the residency’s principle theme. The Monday evening course will focus on Early Christianity’s attitude toward appropriating Palestine from the Jews. The Wednesday evening mini-course will explore Jewish attitudes toward the Land of Israel and the centrality of Jerusalem in Late Antiquity. The Thursday evening mini-course will consider the place of Jews, the Land of Israel and Jerusalem in an Early Christian understanding of the “End of Days.” New to the program this year is the establishment of the Bagel Breakfast Beit Midrash. This program will explore the major shift of cultural and spiritual authority from the Land of Israel to Babylonia that took place in Late Antiquity. This program will include a bagel breakfast, and the program will follow the traditional

U P C O M I N G

CJLL EVENTS

Study selected midrashim with instructor Rabbi Diana Siegel, learn biblical Hebrew grammar with instructor Jonathan Fass or learn new recipies and explore the art of challah-making with Naomi Malakoff. For a complete description of these courses and more, visit jcchouston.org.

One of early Zionist artists’ significant dogmas stressed a deliberate “negation of the Diaspora” that was manifested in a contemptuous attitude toward Jewish culture. However, in the 1970s, attitudes began to shift and a process of strengthening Jewish identity through the arts began to take shape. Interestingly, some secular artists began to give visual expression to Jewish taboos and rituals. Orthodox Jewish-Israelis regard these works as blasphemy. Join Dr. Mishory as he explores this confrontation.

LATE ANTIQUITY

ment of the Bagel Breakfast Beit Midrash. This program will explore the major shift of cultural and spiritual authority from the Land of Israel to Babylonia that took place in Late Antiquity. format for Jewish learning, allowing participants the opportunity to directly engage with the source texts. The breakfast is scheduled for Sunday, January 30 at 10:00 AM. This year’s mid-residency lecture, entitled King David and Jesus, the Jewish Patriarch and Jesus: Contesting Lineage, will deal with one of the most heated debates between Jews and the Church Fathers in the 4th and 5th centuries. It will explore the credentials of the Jewish Patriarch and his claim to be a descendant of King David. This lecture will be held on Sunday, February 6 at 10:00 AM. The residency will conclude on Wednesday, February 9 at 8:00 PM with a closing lecture entitled The Past

Irish singer Susan McKeown and Klezmatics lead

Tu B’Shvat Is Here Sunday, Jan 16 • 2:00 – 4:00 PM FREE Celebrate the New Year of the Trees with games and eco-friendly crafts. In collaboration with the Israeli House of the Consul of Israel to the Southwest.

................................................................. ................................................................. ................................................................. .................................................................

Hillul HaKodesh: Israeli Art and Jewish Blasphemy Lecture by Dr. Alec Mishory, Schusterman Visiting Israeli Professor at the University of Tennessee at Knoxville Thursday, Feb 24 • 8:00 PM $8 Member / $10 Public

CHRISTIANS IN

New to the program this year is the establish-

Saints & Tzadiks: A Concert of Yiddish and Irish Songs at the University of St. Thomas, Jones Hall, 3910 Yoakum Wednesday, Feb 16 • 7:30 PM $10 Adults Children and Students Free singer and accordionist, Lorin Sklamberg, present Saints & Tzadiks — a concert combining Yiddish and Irish songs. Culled from rare archive material and old recordings, McKeown and Sklamberg have selected songs on various themes from the Jewish and Irish traditions. The bulk of the Jewish material is drawn from the Ruth Rubin Archive at the YIVO Institute for Jewish Research. The Irish songs come from both the popular and the ancient Gaelic sean nos traditions. Presented in collaboration with The University of St. Thomas Center for Irish Studies Cultural Outreach Forum, Houston Young Professionals Supporting Irish Studies and The Irish Society. The University of St. Thomas Center for Irish Studies Cultural Outreach Program is funded in part by a grant from the City of Houston through the Houston Arts Alliance.

PHOTO: CHERYL MANN

and the Future of the Past: Ancient and Modern Perspectives on Eretz Israel and the Christian Holy Land. This lecture will tie together the major themes of the residency and offer some later historical perspectives as well as pointers for further thought. Both the opening and closing lectures of the residency are open to the community at no cost. The minicourses, mid-residency lecture, and the Beit Midrash program are all open to the public with the $25 series ticket. The program is made possible through the support of the Horvitz family. For more information contact Rabbi Michele Faudem at mfaudem@jcchouston.org or 713.729.3200, ext. 3322.

Tirkedu Houston! Friday, Jan 14 Sunday, Jan 16 Full Weekend: $70 JCC Member/ $100 Public / $50 with Valid Student ID Tirkedu Houston! is a fun-filled weekend of enthusiastic and energetic Israeli dancing at the Jewish Community Center. Join Shmulik Gov-Ari, a gifted Israeli folk dance choreographer and teacher who has many creative talents: dance, music, art and instruments (especially drums), as our guest artist-in-residence. The weekend will include an Erev Shabbat get together, two teaching sessions for intermediate to advanced dancers (with reviews at the end of each session), a Saturday night dance party, and a review session of all dances on Sunday afternoon. Note: Sunday’s review session is for only those who attended Session I, Session II or the dance party.

....................................................................................................................................... .......................................................................................................................................

Koresh Dance Company Concert S ense of H uman

Who’s Who?

he Jewish Community Center is excited to host Dr. Oded Irshai as the 23rd Bunny and Leo Horvitz Scholar-in-Residence. Professor Irshai is a professor of Jewish History at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. His primary interests include Palestine in the Second Temple Period, Jews and Judaism in early Christian historiography, and the social and cultural dimensions of Jewish life in Late Antiquity. Dr. Irshai has been a visiting scholar at universities around the world including Harvard University, Penn State, Williams College and the University of Moscow. Late Antiquity – Chronology, Sources, and Thematic Issues is the topic of the opening night lecture of this year’s residency, the encounter between the Jewish understanding of the Land of Israel and the Christian concept of the Holy Land. This lecture will offer

JEWS AND

23rd Annual Bunny and Leo Horvitz Scholar-in-Residence Program

Explore Several New Series of Jewish Learning

For more information, to make a

Dr. Oded Irshai Department of Jewish History Hebrew University of Jerusalem

Kulanu Mini-Courses

The chart shows the large percentage of families who depend on financial assistance.

215 children enrolled at the JCC require after school care.

provided by the JCC are matched by no other institution, and we are blessed to have had the opportunity to send our children there.”

AFTER SCHOOL CARE: 7%

70 PERCENT of children in the STARS preschool intervention program for students with autism require scholarship assistance.

SUMMER DAY CAMP: 15%

ONE THIRD of JCC preschool families with children under the age of five receive financial assistance allowing working parents to enroll their children in a safe, nurturing school environment.

The Stats PRESCHOOL: 46%

pose and belonging which will give them the self-confidence they need to do great things.” Leslie Alexander and the Houston Rockets are known for their generous giving to children through the Clutch City Foundation, which provides help, hope and inspiration to those who might otherwise be forgoten. This is where the Rockets strive to be champions off the court. “We have always been involved with the Scholarship Ball as far as buying a table every year. But to be honored is really exciting for all of us. We have partnered with the JCC on a number of events like “Hoops for Hanukkah.” We know it’s an organization that does so much good in the community,” said Jason Kohll, the Rockets Vice President of Corporate Development. Families who have been given scholarships are always grateful for the assistance, but more importantly grateful to be giving their children some of the best programs offered in the city of Houston. “Without the JCC scholarships, we would have had inadequate child care for our children, said Abby Eliezer, mother of two children who both attended the Bertha Alyce Early Childhood Center (BAC). “The care and love and educational experiences

STARS PROGRAM: 70%

The Facts

Whether Nancy is working at the JCC on numerous activities, or working with the kids at The Zina Garrison Academy, her entire heart and soul go into each and every minute of everything she is involved in. “Being a part of the Scholarship Ball since its inception has been one of the most rewarding involvements I have had. It has given me an opportunity to learn from so many talented, creative people and contribute to such an important, meaningful commitment of the JCC Board – that no child is turned away for financial reasons. I love this,” said Nancy. When Honoree Khambrel Marshall isn’t forecasting the weather at Houston’s KPRC-TV, he is advocating for children. Whether it is through his role as Chair of the March for Babies at the March of Dimes or through his seat on the Board of Directors of the YMCA, he knows the importance of setting a good and solid foundation for zchildren starting at the very youngest of ages. “The Children’s Scholarship Ball makes perfect sense when you look at all the programs the JCC does for children,” said Khambrel. “The JCC children’s programs are phenomenal. They give each child a sense of pur-



Cirque du J: A Purpose for Children

he 21st Annual Children’s Scholarship Ball benefiting the Irvin Kaplan Children’s Scholarship fund helps hundreds of children and families afford preschool, Summer Day Camp, after school and special needs programs at the JCC every year. Since 1990, the Ball has raised more than $7.8 million and granted over 6,000 scholarships to families in financial need. The JCC’s 21st Annual Children’s Scholarship Ball will be held Saturday, February 26, 2011 at the Westin Galleria and will honor Nancy Lerner, Khambrel Marshall and The Houston Rockets. These community leaders have longstanding commitments to many causes that benefit children throughout Houston. Each Honoree has made significant contributions to enriching the lives of our next generation. “We don’t want a single child to be turned away; it’s why we work so hard,” said Nancy Lerner, an Honoree this year, but also someone who has been an integral part of the Scholarship Ball from the beginning, including chairing the Ball in 1994 and co-chairing the event in 2000.

LA N D

the

2011 Children's Scholarship Ball

Saturday, Feb 5 • 8:00 PM $16 Member / $22 Public $12 Senior Adults and Students

dance Student Show Friday, Feb 4 • 11:00 AM $8 Member, Senior Adult or Student / $12 Public

enowned for their powerful stage presence, Koresh Dance Company will perform two works in its Houston premier. Passomezzo, choreographed by Ohad Naharin, Artistic Director of Batsheva Dance Company, and Sense of Human, choreographed by Koresh Dance Company’s artistic director, Ronen Koresh. Passomezzo, set to Baroque melodies, is a highly theatrical pas de deux depicting the intimate dialogue between a man and woman about tough love and opposition. Sense of Human depicts life in its purest, rawest, most guttural state. This work delves beneath our desired self-image to discover our true sense of humanity.

THE JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER OF HOUSTON PRESENTS:

7. Erica Levit & Marci Rosenberg: Ball Chairs FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO PURCHASE TICKETS VISIT jcchouston.org

....................................................................................................................................... .......................................................................................................................................

DANCE MONTH AT THE KAPLAN THEATRE Celebrating 31 Years January 12 – February 12, 2011

START WITH STUDIO J We are one of only two facilities in our area to offer TRX® group classes, so our members are in a very exclusive club.

verything you need to get the New Year off to a right start is waiting for you at Studio J. Studio J is the newest addition to the JCC Fitness Center. It offers small group training options to meet an array of fitness needs, including personal Pilates Reformer training, group Reformer classes, personal training or TRX® group classes. “We are one of only two facilities in our area to offer TRX group classes, so our members are in a very exclusive club,” said Monique Brown, JCC Director of Fitness and Health Services. Stop adding to your stress by going all over the place to meet your personal needs, Studio J is one-stop shopping and equipped to meet all your physical, mental and health needs. “Many of our members are very consistent with their exercise routines, yet many have reached plateaus that they do not know how to push through. The TRX is perfect because the advanced athlete and the novice enthusiast can both use it. The interval training that the TRX allows participants to experience is a

huge calorie burner and is strength training and cardio combined,” said Brown. Whether your goal is to relax and tone, or sweat, and grunt, Studio J can meet your demands. Studio J classes range from $14 to $30, with options of 50 and 30-minute classes. Make this New Year about you and take advantage of Studio J by upgrading or becoming a member of the JCC Fitness Center. Whether you are an experienced exerciser or want to become fit, you’ll find a world of choices at the JCC Fitness Center. From cardio and strength training to wellness and weight programs, it’s all right here and available with highly trained staff motivated to assist and encourage you at every step on your path to better health. Learn how to handle the stress of life with classes such as Pilates Reformer, Hatha Yoga, Hula Hoop, Pilates Mat, Belly Dancing, Zumba, Tai Chi, Cardio Dance and Hip Hop. And, experience our many personalized, signature services with Nutritional Counseling, Personal Training and Massage Therapy. During your workout, we offer a safe, fun and active childcare room for children ages 6 months to 7 years old. Come in today to visit and take a tour of our state-of-the-art facilities. Now is the time to upgrade or become a JCC Fitness Center member. Individual monthly rates are as low as $49 and family rates are as low as $79. Free twoweek trial available! For more information or to become a member, please contact the Membership Office at 713.729.3200, ext. 3220.

The Ultimate Summer Experience Year After Year

ake the JCC your child’s home away from home this summer. There is no better, safer or greater place to be than the JCC for all your child’s summer fun. 2011 Summer Day Camp lineup includes all the same great camps plus many new options. For those looking for something different this summer, the JCC is offering several new camps for third through fifth graders. You will have the chance to sizzle up some summer fun with cooking camp or give your child a magical experience with magic camp. Help your child learn the latest tricks with digital technology with Digital Media Camp and join a band with Camp Jam. For those first and second graders who would like to play more tennis or learn some gymnastics but don’t want to spend all day doing it, we have enhanced our Junior Camp option. Junior Camp will offer specialized classes in tennis or gymnastics in the morning with the more traditional Camp Kaleidoscope in the afternoon. “We have an exciting summer coming up with a lot of new activities for the kids, but we are keeping our focus on quality. We want parents to know that the difference between our camp and other camps is the quality staff we have to teach skills. They will be offered one-on-one time and attention to focus on skillbuilding,” said Randy Comensky, JCC Camp Director.

Asher Golub (left) and Jack Applebaum learned a lot about swimming, sharing and

Enjoy unlimited access to over 75 FREE drop-in fitness classes weekly.

CLASS PASS SS CENTER TO E JCC FITNE ASSES PASS TO TH BRING THIS R FITNESS CL OU OF Y AN LID CILITY OR ORS ONLY. VA TRY OUR FA SIT VI E TIM 18 . FOR FIRST 11. MUST BE FOR 14 DAYS 20 , 28 RY UA ROUGH FEBR MAY APPLY. NS FOR USE TH TIO RIC REST DER. OTHER YEARS OR OL

JCC TENNIS

S T S I T R A & S E T E L H T A

D E T N A W ISRAEL: July 24 - August 5, 2011

Philadelphia: August 14 - 19, 2011 Springfield: August 14 - 19, 2011

Tryouts for the 2011 JCC Maccabi Houston team are in progress for all competitive sports – basketball, volleyball, soccer, baseball, tennis, bowling, swimming, golf, table tennis and dance! Athletes can try out for as many sports as desired, but can only participate in one sport throughout the year and at the Games. Spots for Israel are still available for athletes and artists. For a schedule listing of tryouts and sports, visit jcchouston.org, or for more information, contact Brittany Horwitt at bhorwitt@jcchouston.org or 713.729.3200, ext. 3327.

*Fee Based Classes

UNLIMITED

JANUARY TRYOUTS IN PROGRESS

SUMMER DAY CAMP

BodyPump™ Kick Boxing Boost Masters Swim Abs Turbo Kick Boot Camp* Spin Deep Water Fitness Cardio Sculpt

Hatha Yoga Hula Hoop* Yoga Pila Pilates Mat Belly Dancing Zumba Tai Chi Cardio Dance Hip Hop Vinyasa/Power Yoga

Members & Guests Showcasing a Variety of Tennis Programming

he JCC Tennis Center, which includes the Boniuk Family Indoor Tennis Center and the Weingarten Outdoor Tennis Complex, provides a variety of highquality tennis programs for the entire community. In addition to its Junior Tennis Academy for players ages 3 - 18, the Tennis Center offers Adult Drill Clinics; Free Clinics; Cardio Tennis; Boot Camp; Private, SemiPrivate and Group Lessons; In-House and Travel Leagues; Summer and School Holiday Camps; and signature events such as Tennis Mixers and Junior Tournaments. On Friday, January 21, a new signature event, The Ladies Member/ Guest will be introduced at the JCC. Hosted by the JCC Daytime Tennis Committee along with Head Pro Michael Reily, the event will be held at the Tennis Center from 9:00 AM 1:00 PM. The Member/Guest Event

will allow members to bring guests from the tennis community for a day of fun and great indoor tennis that will showcase the variety of tennis programming available at the JCC Tennis Center. The $60 entry fee for the Member/ Guest Event includes registration for the Tennis Center Member and her guest, a bagel breakfast, light lunch, and offerings such as prizes and gift bags to highlight this distinctive event. According to Reily, “The Member/Guest Event is a new and exciting way to introduce the high-quality tennis experiences offered at the JCC to the broader Houston tennis community.” The Tennis Center is open Monday-Thursday 8:00 AM -10:00 PM, Friday 8:00 AM 6:00 PM, Saturday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM and Sunday 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM. Call 713.551.7292 to arrange for a tour of the beautiful facility or for more information about the professional coaching and great events available at the JCC Tennis Center.

friendship at Kinder Camp. Summer Day Camp

Do you have questions about Summer Camp? Or feel like you want to meet some of the people who will be interacting with your child before you send them to camp. Then be sure to attend parent information night on Thursday, February 3 at 7:00 PM at the Weingarten Building or at the JCC West Houston on Wednesday, February 2 at 7:00 PM. These new camper information evenings are for parents of preschoolers through second graders. Sign up on Camp Registration Day, February 6 from 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM and receive 2010 published prices - one day only! The JCC has been giving children the ultimate summer day camp experience for more than 60 years. We offer daily instructional and recreational swimming, Judaic enrichment, friendship circles and lots of fun and games. For more information visit jcchouston.org or contact the Camp office at 713.551.7208.

Watch your mailbox for your 2011 Camp Guide COMING SOON!

at the J begins May 31 – register for 2010 PUBLISHED RATES on Sunday, February 6.

MAY 31 - AUGUST 19 Summer Day Camp 2011

at the

Spaces Fill Up Quickly / Reserve Your Spot Today!

The Early Childhood Centers of the Jewish Community Center of Houston are educational learning centers influenced by Jewish heritage and teachers

EXCLUSIVE ONE DAY SPECIAL!

dedicated to principles of social justice, respect for diversity

Registration Day Begins SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 6* 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM

and valuing the uniqueness of each child. The primary focus is the needs of young children and their families. It is our belief that by being the “neighbor” within our community, we are

*offer valid only February 6

ages 2-13 • preschool & kindergarten sports • tennis • gymnastics • performing arts dance • circus • mad science • aquatics • teen travel art • kaleidoscope • wits • magic • cooking • camp jam

Half-Day & Full-Day Options 1, 2 & 4 Week Programs Available

pARENT INFORMATION NIGHT 7:00 PM • FEBRUARY 2 (West Houston) 7:00 PM • FEBRUARY 3 (Southwest Houston)

creating a dynamic and caring environment for parent and child alike.

2011 - 2012 SCHOOL YEAR REGISTRATION SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 6 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM

IPS

ERSH

B MEM

T AT STAR

$199

OPEN HOUSE January 26 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

look!

Get your 2011 Winter Program Guide online winter class registration There is still time to register for classes

CLASSES BEGIN JANUARY 16 visit jcchouston.org/program guide for more details and to register.

CLASSROOM VISITATION & TOURS Meet the Teachers Ask Questions JCC EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER AGES 6 WEEKS TO 5 YEARS

Jewish Community Center of Houston 5601 S. Braeswood | Houston, Texas 77096 713.551.7200 | jcchouston.org

Lifelong

Learning

LEFT TO RIGHT: Chair and members of the Symposium Lifelong Learning Committee, Marge Mayer, Shirley Warshaw and Joyce Gilbert.

Symposium Founders Create Learning Experiences for Retirees years ago, Marge Mayer had an idea to create learning experiences during the day for recent retirees. The desire was to learn at the JCC on topics that weren’t solely Jewish related. She then gathered up a team of like-minded individuals who have helped her shape Symposium: Lifelong Learning Institute into what it is today. With the initial help of Shirley Warshaw and Joyce Gilbert, and many brainstorming sessions with a comS

CLASSES Art and Immortality: Immortality – What is It? Tuesdays • Jan 18 – Feb 8 10:00 - 11:00 AM Four interactive sessions will investigate the view of visual artists, literary figures and YOU on topics including Art and Belief, Art and Sublime, Art and “Vanitis” and Art and Immortality. Courses instructed by Eric Timmreck, Senior Docent at MFA, Houston, Board Member of MFA Guild, previous Symposium lecturer on Art and Thought.

mittee, Symposium Lifelong Learning was created. So what is Symposium Lifelong Learning? It provides a stimulating intellectual and social environment for active adults. A variety of subjects are offered including but not limited to: fine arts, science, civil liberties, literature, entertainment, economics and industries in and around Houston. All courses are peer led and consist of four consecutive weekly, one-hour sessions. Symposium sessions are scheduled in the fall, winter and spring. The instructors and facilitators teach for the joy and satisfaction of sharing their expertise. The next session of classes begins January 18.

Symposium provides a stimulating intellectual and social environment for active adults.

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. THERE ARE NO EXAMS, NO GRADES. ALL THAT IS REQUIRED IS TO COME WITH A SHARP PENCIL AND HAVE A THIRST FOR LEARNING.

ABC’s of DNA 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM Tuesdays • Jan 18 – Feb 8

Homeland Security Wednesdays • Jan 19 – Feb 9 10:00 – 11:00 AM

Shakespeare’s Friends and Family Wednesdays • Jan 19 – Feb 9 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM

DNA testing reveals a lot about an individual. Find out just what it does show and the pros and cons of acquiring this information. Discover the science behind DNA and the clues your ancestors left you. Who should have access to this information, and how accurate is it? Who owns and controls it? How could it affect your health insurance?

The Who and How of Homeland Security presented by four major governmental agencies who will explain what their offices are doing to keep us safe. Departments include Houston Office of Immigration and Custom Enforcement (ICE), Houston Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Office of the US Attorney General for the Southern District and City of Houston Department of Emergency Preparedness.

Learn about the private daily life of the world’s greatest playwright by exploring topics such as Shakespeare’s close friends in Stratford, Shakespeare’s London friends, Shakespeare’s immediate family, Shakespeare’s extended family members.

In Honor of Kristofer Melendes – Ana Cecilia Alvarado In Honor of Lucas & Miriam Muller – Florence & Paul Muller In Honor of Ellie Sherman – Iris & Brad Sherman In Honor of Evan Sherman – Iris & Brad Sherman In Honor of Miss Paula Cohen & Miss Michaela for Being Wonderful Teachers to Maya – Leslie & Michael Schwartz In Honor of Collin Steinberg – Morgan & Kevin Steinberg In Honor of Rabbi Steven Morgen – Lovonne D’orlaque In Honor of the Monkeys Class – Adrienne Smith In Honor of Benjamin & Jack’s 1st Birthday – Nicole & Adam Slater In Honor of Gabriela Davis – Claudia & Cliff Davis In Honor of Dana Malin – Julie & Seth Malin In Honor of Daphne & Ian Kaufman – Amy & Jeff Kaufman In Honor of Rayna Laufman – Robin Laufman In Honor of Alyssa, Jonathan & MacKenzie Kleinman – Ellen & Michael Kleinman In Memory of Rachel Gottlieb –The Bertha Alyce Staff Sunshine Fund In Honor of Roger & Sue Hochman Family – Barbara & Richard Calfee

GENERAL FUNDS In Memory of Ruby & Leon Bluestein – Lena Malacoff In Memory of Jerry Salzberg – Jim Witowsky In Memory of Tom Theriot – Castine Theriot In Honor of the Birth of our Daughter, Hannah Judith Levit – Abigail & Marshall Levit In Honor of the Steiner/Savrick Families – Charles J. Steiner In Memory of Harold Falik & Joe Weingarten – Denise & John Havenar

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT JENNIFER HANDY AT jhandy@jcchouston.org or 713.729.3200, ext. 3244

Tributes

BARBARA FALIK CENTRAL PROGRAM WING FUND In Honor of the Anniversary of Mr. & Mrs. John Falik – Veda & Morris Glesby BERTHA ALYCE CENTER ANNUAL GIVING FUND In Honor of Joshua & Naomi Block – Great Grandma Bea Heller In Honor of William Schecter - Dr. David & Rose Schecter In Honor of Beryt Scott – Adrienne & David Scott In Honor of STARS – Michelle Friedman In Honor of Reid Taibel – Nikki Morgan In Honor of the BAC Staff – Aaron Miller In Honor of Maya Shohamy – Zvia Zilkha In Honor of the Elephants Class – Amy & Clint Harris In Honor of Shira, Talia & Ahava Babajanov – Maytal & Daniel Babajanov In Honor of Shira & Jonathan Mizrahi – Reut & Guy Mizrahi In Honor of Max & Goldie Harris – Renee & J. R. Harris In Honor of Emily Rappaport – Jerry Wische, Midge Wische In Honor of Ms. Thelma, Ms. Angela & Ms. Evelyn – Renee & Yuval Raizen In Honor of Samuel, Casey & Jacob Morgan – Merle Bloch In Honor of Hannah, Shira & Rachel Kraut – Merle Bloch In Honor of Ethan & Joshua Taylor – Kim & Gary Taylor In Honor of Granchildren, Jacob & Noah Fisch and Benjamin & Raphael Hananel – Vicky Hananel In Honor of Gai Regev – Lilach & Shai Regev In Honor of Isabella Adachi – Karen Vigil In Honor of Benjamin Adachi – Karen Vigil In Honor of Avery Fisher – Anne & Chris Fisher

In Honor of Ori Liron & Helee Holtzshtein – Sefi Holtzshtein In Honor of Evan Rose – Edith Rose In Honor of Addison & Ella Wolf – Bethany & Michael Wolf In Honor of Ayala & Rina Miriam Presley – Sandy & Lucky Burke In Honor of Jason & Alex Reitman – Deanna Reitman In Honor of Drayden Johnson – Loretta & Carl Krohn, Penny & Don Johnson In Honor of Dylan & Rachel Schwartz – Lynn & Steve Axelrad In Honor of the Pre K Classes, Past, Present & Future – Laura Talisman In Honor of The Lambs’ Teachers – Kathryn & Jonathan Paine In Honor of Alexander & Owen Leif – Phyllis Leif In Honor of our Grandson, Ethan Robins – Dr. Brian & Adele Robins In Honor of Kyle & Daniel Shetsky – Adriana & David Shetsky In Honor of Morgan & Macyn’s Fabulous Teachers – David & Susie Tannery In Honor of Jordan Halpern – Jen Halpern In Honor of Amy Storthz – Karen & Joe Storthz In Honor of Riley Most – Mira Temkin In Honor of All the Teachers Who Take Care of the Shefmans – Drew Shefman In Honor of Brandon Kamin – Hilary & Brent Kamin In Honor of Marissa Bishop – Joyce Nowak In Honor of Emma Doran – Nancy & Gunther Doran In Honor of Madison & Brody Mark, My Grandchildren – Annette S. Wade, Michael & Jeri Mark In Honor of Stephanie Rosemeyer – Michelle P. Adams In Honor of Emily & Liat Rappaport – Abi & Joey Rappaport In Honor of Garrett & Rhys Lloyd – Claudette Lloyd In Honor of My New BAC Family – Cathy Shelley In Honor of Samantha Rose Odensky – Janis & Larry Odensky In Honor of Katie Seigle – Melanie & Harvey Seigle

CHILDREN’S SCHOLARSHIP BALL FUND In Memory of Oscar Katz – Midge Wische In Honor of Jerry Wische – Sharon & Daniel Brener In Honor of Erica Levit – Milton & Lee Levit Family, Max & Rochelle Levit Family 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 Memory of Oscar Katz – Nancy & Steve Lerner In Memory of Robert Racusin – Nancy & Steve Lerner In Memory of Erica Levit’s Grandmother – Nancy & Steve Lerner

oin the Jewish Community Center of Houston January 12 - February 12 for Dance Month as we spotlight prominent choreographers, master teachers, companies and dancers in Houston and around the world. Tirkedu Houston! is a fun-filled weekend of enthusiastic and energetic Israeli dancing led by Shmulik Gov-Ari, a gifted Israeli folk dance choreographer and teacher who has many creative talents including dance, music, art and instruments. The weekend will include an ErevShabbat Get Together, two teaching sessions for intermediate to advanced dancers, a Saturday night dance party and a review session of all dances on Sunday afternoon. Three dynamic professional dance companies come together for Triple Focus, featuring works rang-

DANCE DANCE DANCE Dance Month 2011 At The Kaplan Theatre: Celebrating 31 Years ing from contemporary to hip hop. Commissioned this year are HIStory, Hope Stone Dance Company and NobleMotion Dance. Hope Stone Dance Company, under the direction of Jane Weiner, has been recognized for its bold choreography, as well as cutting-edge modern dance performances. NobleMotion Dance seeks to create works that encourage dialogue among patrons and collaborators. HIStory, one of Houston’s hottest hip hop dance companies, welcomes guest performers from Inertia Dance for this performance. Renowned for their powerful stage presence, Koresh Dance Company will be performing two new works in an amazing concert: Passomezzo, choreographed by Ohad Naharin, and Sense of Human, choreographed by artistic director Ronen Koresh. Passomezzo, set to Baroque melodies, is a highly theatrical pas de deux depicting intimate dialogue between a man and woman. Choreographer Ohan Naharin, Artistic Director of

HARRIS WEINGARTEN OUTDOOR TENNIS CENTER FUND In Honor of the Speedy Recovery of Albert Stein – Jeneane & Aaron Pearlman In Honor of the 90th Birthday of Lou Goldfaden – Emily & Albert Stein In Honor of the Speedy Recover of Sheldon Oster – Emily & Albert Stein

education with unique workshops and master classes. For dance educators, the Leap ‘N Learn™ Teacher Workshop is a twoday intensive focusing on creative and positive children’s dance education. For complete details, see the Leap ‘N Learn™ brochure at jcchouston.org. As a part of the I W Marks Master Class Series, Dance Month presents master classes with Koresh Dance Company and Compagnie La Baraka. Experience an intermediate/ advanced master class with the Koresh Dance Company, whose reputation for passion and outstanding technique continually results in sold-out performances. Compagnie La Baraka is an international, multi-cultural company of dancers from Lyon, France. For more information on Dance Month events, visit our website at jcchouston.org/dancemonth.

DYNAMIC PROFESSIONAL DANCE COMPANIES COME TOGETHER FOR TRIPLE FOCUS, FEATURING WORKS RANGING FROM CONTEMPORARY TO HIP HOP. COMMISSIONED THIS YEAR ARE HIStory, HOPE STONE DANCE COMPANY, AND NOBLEMOTION DANCE.

$28 member / $39 public for each topic. Each topic has four sessions.

GERALD RAUCH MEMORIAL FUND In Honor of the Birthday of Lila Rauch – Betty Rae & Ralph Cohen, Frann G. Lichtenstein, Edith Reed, Lynne Lipsitz In Honor of the Speedy Recovery of Dr. Steven Rosenbaum – Lila Rauch In Honor of the Birthday of Lilly Stark – Lila Rauch In Honor of the Birthday if Lee Levit – Lila Rauch In Honor of the Birthday of Minnette Robinson – Lila Rauch In Memory of Gerald Rauch – The Glesby Family, Bernice Feld. Sadie Krakower, Anita & Art Kotlen, Hilda & Hershel Rich, Edith S. Lewis, Susie Miller, Dede & Connie Weil In Honor of the Birthday of Saul Friedman – Lila Rauch In Honor of the Birthday of Elaine Friedman – Lila Rauch In Honor of Lila Rauch at Hannukah – Patricia & Mark Rauch, Linda Susman, Linda & Larry Rauch In Memory of Sue Orly – Lila Rauch

Batsheva Dance Company, began his training with the Batsheva Dance Company in Tel Aviv, and later studied and performed with the School of American Ballet, The Martha Graham Dance Company and the Juilliard School of Music. Sense of Human depicts life in its purest, rawest, most guttural state. Choreographer Ronen Koresh has danced with Martha Graham’s Batsheva 2 Dance Company and trained with Alvin Ailey. In 1991, he formed Koresh Dance Company, which has since earned him the recognition of international audiences. Featuring a stellar array of artists, Houston Ballet II will perform a variety of dance works, ranging from excerpts from the great classics such as Raymonda to contemporary works by Houston Ballet Artistic Director Stanton Welch in An Evening with Houston Ballet II. Along with outstanding performances, Dance Month focuses on

HARRY K. SMITH MEALS ON WHEELS FUND In Memory of Anatoliy L. Barsky – Julia & Oleg Barsky In Memory of Dr. James Wayne Campbell – Harriet Awapara In Memory of their Parents – Sandra & Joe Kirk In Honor of the Birthday of Doris G. Katz – Sharon E. Katz In Memory of George Guidry – W. D. Howell Jr. In Memory of Nate Tudzin – Ione & Sid Moran In Honor of Joan Eisenberg/Ben Maniere Wedding Guests – Joan Eisenberg In Honor of Helen Mintz – Beatrice Lewis In Honor of Mr. & Mrs. Leonard Swartz, on the Occasion of Chanukah – Gail & Gary Swartz In Honor of the Birthday of Irene Shaw – Sandra & Joe Kirk In Honor of our Children & Grandchildren – Linda & Joel Chess IRVIN KAPLAN CHILDREN’S SCHOLARSHIP FUND In Memory of Mia Rubenfeld – Joy & Joe Kaplan JEWISH ARTS AND CULTURE FUND In Honor of Terry & Martin Cominsky – Jerami & Nir Shecter Peled In Honor of Enid Robinson’s Birthday – Saranne & Livingston Kosberg LEO HORVITZ SCHOLAR FUND In Memory of Nate Tudzin – Shirley & Sig Horvitz MACCABI 2012 GAMES FUND In Honor of the 80th Birthday of Clara Gold – Tiby Bernstein In Honor of the Bar Mitzvah of Joseph Mirwis – Elena & Joel Dinkin In Honor of the Birthday of Vic Samuels – Ann & Stephen Kaufman

MARILYN HASSID JEWISH BOOK FAIR EMERGING AUTHORS FUND In Honor of Deborah Kaplan & Patti Hanfling for Doing Such a Great Job on Book Fair – Betsy & Ed Schreiber In Honor of The Book Fair Steering Committee Members who did such a great job on the 2010 Jewish Book & Arts Fair: Linda Chess, Louise Kershman, Ruth Morris, Sheila Sack, Carol Sternberg, Cynthia Stetzer, Beverly Sufian, Claire Noll, Marci Gilbert, Liz Aussenberg, Robin Greenspan, Sue Goott, Mignon Wolf, Donna Silverman, Michelle Renfrow, Susan Schneider, Irene Weingarten, Carolyn Kaplan, Susan Altschuler, Joyce Gilbert, Ellen Grabois, Leah Lax, Shirley Warshaw, Debra Dluhy, Diane Gelman, Leah Gross, Sarah Braham, Denis Braham, Vicky Richker, Michael Richker, Gerald Blumenthal, Brooke Feather, Ali Katz, Gordan Sack, Elinor Goldberg, Jack Goldberg, Annette Kavin, Cindy Fox, Lillie Hurwitz, Lolly Friedman Miller, Tracy Stein, Lauren Vines – Patti Hanfling and Deborah Kaplan MARY MICHIELI ROLLINS MYSTICAL GARDEN ENHANCEMENT FUND In Memory of Ted Rollins - Nancy & Steve Lerner MELTON MINI-SCHOOL FUND In Memory of my Melton Classmate, Jerry Bass – Lynn Bliss In Memory of Naomi Barancik’s mother – Mitzi Shure & Jerry Wische MERFISH TEEN CENTER FUND In Memory of Rita Simon – Sherry & Gerald Merfish MIKE GROSSMAN/JUDY RICHKER MACCABI SCHOLARSHIP FUND

In Memory of Ellen Brochstein – Michael & Vicky Richker In Memory of Sara Jean Levine – Michael & Vicky Richker In Memory of Steven Masanow – Michael & Vicky Richker In Memory of Mia Rubenfeld – Michael & Vicky Richker In Memory of Mary Folloder – Michael & Vicky Richker In Memory of Rosalie Goldberg – Michael & Vicky Richker In Memory of Dr. Leon Slatko – Michael & Vicky Richker In Memory of Gerson Cweren – Michael & Vicky Richker In Honor of Janie & Toby Richker’s 11th Wedding Anniversary - Michael & Vicky Richker In Honor of a Speedy Recovery for Salomon Schein – Michael & Vicky Richker OLIVER LAPIN CHILDREN’S BOOK FAIR FUND In Honor of Bobby, Eve, Eliot & Alec Lapin – Sherry & Gerald Merfish Fund of the HJCF PATRON OF THE ARTS FUND In Honor of Vicky & Michael Richker – Meredith & Bradley Segal SENIOR ADULT BUS FUND In Memory of Ruth Reder, mother of Maxene Kotin – Fran & Ban Podell SENIOR ADULT SERVICES In Honor of the Birthday of Trudy Applebaum – Lorraine Brown SENIOR ADULT MITZVAH FUND In Memory of Rose Pasternak – Anne Kaufman In Memory of Alan Olshan, husband of Marilyn Olshan – Fran & Ben Podell In Memory of Naomi Baracik’s mother – Diana Howard SENIOR OLYMPICS FUND In Memory of Rose Hortstein Pasternak – Maxine & Herman Lapin

SOL RUBENSTEIN GYMNASTICS TRAINING FUND In Honor of Linda Rubenstein’s Birthday – Nancy Landa In Honor of Bobbie Weinstein’s Birthday – Linda & Jerry Rubenstein In Honor of the Recovery of David Hecht – Linda & Jerry Rubenstein TRIBUTE FUND In Honor of Rabbi Michele Faudem – Donna Abramson 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 December 20, 2010. 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.

2011

CONNECTED

Watch for your 2011 Camp Guide in your mailbox mid-January!

R t Year’s s a L t a r Registe

GET

0 PM 0 : 1 M A 0 0 6 • 9: Y R A U R B E F , SUNDAY

mp y Ca a D mer m D ay u n S o 1 i 1 ! t 20 tra y Only a s i D e g n Re ates - O

LIMITED TIME ONLY

e t a D e h t e Sav

gistration rship & re

r array of artists, Featuring a stella performs a wide Houston Ballet II rks, ranging from wo e nc variety of da such gr e eat classics excerpts from th rks wo ry ra po contem as Raymonda to lch. We n to an St r to by artistic direc

tre is the Kaplan Thea Dance Month at wish Community Je the by rt pa funded in from the Arts, a grant Center Patrons of the Houston gh ou thr ton us the City of Ho t, JP Moruston Endowmen Arts Alliance, Ho gement. na Ma h alt We C gan Chase and RB airline of es is the official Continental Airlin se is the ha stc We ton us Ho the JCC. Marriott C. JC official hotel of the

GENERAL JCC MEMBERSHIPS

II Houston Ballet • 8:00 PM 12 b Fe , ay rd tu Sa

dEvents

Dance Month Begins Winter Classes Begin Tu B’Shvat Family Celebration Symposium Classes Begin Ladies Member/Guest Tennis Event School Holiday Program (MLK Day) Horvitz Scholar Opens Preschool Open House Tweens: Flag Football & The Blind Side Kids Nite Out Junior Australian Open Mixer

February 2 3 5 6 12 13 16 19 24 26 26

VALID THRU FEBRUARY 6

t Evening Concer • 8:00 PM Saturday, Feb 5 o ncert features tw This amazing co aphed gr eo or ch , zo ez works: Passom , and Sense of by Ohad Naharin aphed by artistic gr eo or Human, ch resh. Ko director Ronen

raka Compagnie La Ba 25 Friday, Feb PM 11:00 AM - 12:30 is taught by an This master class y cultural compan ltimu l, na tio interna ce under an Fr , on Ly m of dancers fro Abou Lagraa the direction of

FAMILY, CHILDREN’S AND SUMMER MEMBERSHIP SPECIALS AVAILABLE

mpany Koresh Dance Co Student Matinee 11:00 AM Friday, Feb 4 •

Sunday, Jan 30 PM 9:00 AM - 3:30 e elve-hour intensiv This two-day, tw to y ilit ab ur yo es workshop enhanc ers teach young danc

Contact the Membership Office today 713.729.3200

Sunday, Jan 23 ee 3:00 PM • Matin e featuring three A concert of danc anies: HIStory, mp professional co e Company, and Hope Stone Danc e. nc Da NobleMotion

12 16 16 18 21 17 23 26 29 29 29

and Tennis Center Memberships. Other restrictions may apply.

r /advanced maste An intermediate and dynamic tic hle at on g sin class focu . modern technique op Teacher Worksh Leap ‘N Learn™ Saturday, Jan 29 PM 9:30 AM - 6:00

January

*New members only. Offer valid on annual memberships only. Excludes Fitness

PAID

Triple Focus Saturday, Jan 22 ert 8:00 PM • Conc

Koresh Dance Co Master Class Thursday, Feb 3 3:00 - 4:30 PM

Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage

mpany

n! Tirkedu Housto Sunday, Jan 16 14 n Ja y, Frida d lik Gov-Ari, a gifte Featuring Shmu r he ap gr choreo Israeli folk dance and teacher.

Calendar

JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER OF HOUSTON

5601 S. Braeswood | Houston, Texas 77096 jcchouston.org Houston, Texas Permit No. 6217

oreht prominent ch lig ot sp to s ue in nt dancers. Dance Month co , companies and rs he ac te r te as ographers, m ARY 12 12 - FEBRU JANUARY

m em b e d ur new an a tour of o ship? Take embership g member visit the m Considerin ess facilities. Call or ter. fitn Fitness Cen expanded ted in the y, now loca to offer. office toda l we have uetball, ntage of al etball, racq sk Take adva g pools, ba member? tions to Already a s, swimmin and invita ter & classe programs bership Fitness Cen cess to free n more call the Mem nastics, ac ar tennis, gym special events. To le on.org. nly t jcchoust member-o 200 or visi t 713.729.3 Departmen

SAVE THE DATE

23rd Annual JCC Golf Tournament BlackHorse Golf Club Monday, May 2 For more info visit jcchouston.org

e c n a l g a t a c..e................. d..a.n . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ......

West Houston Summer Day Camp Info Night Summer Day Camp Info Night Daddy / Daughter Dance Summer Day Camp & Early Childhood Registration Day Kids Nite Out Family Fun Day Saints & Tzadiks Concert Kids Nite Out Hillul HaKodesh Lecture Junior Tennis Mixer 21st Annual Children’s Scholarship Ball