oin us for these unique and engaging film screenings as we celebrate the 23rd year of the William and Irene Weinberg Family Baltimore Jewish Film Festival. Each film will be followed by a guest speaker. With eight films of Jewish interest from around the world, you won’t want to miss even one!
comedy about overcoming bigotry and self-doubt. Co-starring Bart Johnson (High School Musical) and Don Most (Happy Days), and featuring a cameo by Jewish gospel sensation Joshua Nelson.
The Yankles (Opening Night)
Olympic history. Uncomfortable with a Jewish athlete on the Aryan team, the Nazis conspire to replace her with an unknown über-athlete (Sebastian Urzendowsky), who is revealed to be a man years later.
Monday, March 28; 7:30pm USA 2009; Director: David R. Brooks English; 115 Min
An ex-con finds redemption by coaching an upstart Orthodox Jewish baseball team in this bawdy but uplifting crowd-pleaser, The Yankles. While striving to lead the Yankles to the league championships, Charlie works to mend fences with those he has wronged in the past. Mixing shtick with a surprisingly sensitive portrayal of Orthodox customs, this is a feel-good
Film Festival continues on page 12
Naomi Wednesday, March 30; 7:30pm Israel/France 2010; Director: Eitan Tzur Hebrew, Arabic, and Russian with English subtitles; 90 minutes
Ilan Ben Natan, a 58-year-old Astrophysics Professor, is obsessively in love with his young wife, Naomi. When Ilan discovers that his deepest fears have come true – Naomi has a lover – he is unable to control himself. He confronts the lover and commits a horrible act, the consequences of which will weigh heavily on his conscience.
Berlin ’36 Sunday, April 3; 1:00PM and 4:00PM Germany 2009; Director: Kaspar Heidelbach German with English subtitles; 100 min.
Inspired by the true story of Jewish high jumper Gretel Bergmann, Berlin ‘36 replays a remarkable piece of forgotten
March 2011 Adar 5771
Inside Jewish Life.............................. 2 FYI.......................................... 3 Children & Youth.................. 4-5 Camps ................................... 6 Teens................................... 7-8 Adult Life Plus........................ 9 Arts & Culture ...................... 10 Fitness............................. 11-12 Staff ..................................... 13 Chai Lights........................... 14 Aquatics............................... 14 Associated Corner................. 15
Jewish Life Wisdom for Today By Rabbi Jonathan A. Panitz In the chilly months between Tu Bshevat and Pesach, Judaism seems to become dormant. The high level of spirituality found in Tu Bshevat; the close connection to nature, the world, and its environs gives way to a longing for warmer weather. Perhaps this may be a fitting type of transition. We need to prepare for the rigors of Passover – cleaning; dishes, flatware, room rearrangements, guest lists, menus, and the activities that bring us to the festival that moves from the essence of spirituality to the essential elements of connection with one another. This transition period is spanned by the wonder of Purim. So if Tu Bshevat is immensely spiritual and Passover is essentially a festival of interconnecting, what then can we say about Purim? Purim, with its emphasis on the mysterious, the magical, the secular, the hidden and the opaque, gives us a sense of vitality. It provides us with the ultimate realization that not all things need to be measured directly by the yardstick of religious propriety. Tu Bshevat has its history in the Talmudical tractates that deal with civil law and the appropriate time to tithe. Passover too is intricately bound by rules and laws and regulations that are dictated by Talmudic formulae. Purim too is found in Talmudical tractes, but of course you will quickly note that God is not mentioned once in the entire Megilla. Is this an oversight? Were the rabbis of old so overwhelmed by Purim and its emphasis on the dark side of the things that they were not ready to put God’s name in the Megillah? Were the events of the Megillah so fantastic that God chose not to participate? Was the merriment of Purim juxtaposed against the ignominious end of Haman and his sons so difficult to entertain that God is left out? Many questions, not enough answers. So what is one to do? Just enjoy Purim. Secondly, we need a holy day such as this to shake off the rigors of religious restriction. Where else are we specifically told to become “delirious with drink”? Where else in the entire Jewish calendar do we find merrymaking and masquerading like this? Putting on a mask and pretending to be someone else frees individuals to participate in wondrous ways and not be constrained. Purim enables us to step out of character and enter into a dance with history. It matters not that this history may be contrived. It matters not that this history has a difficult historical pedigree. What matters is that we can participate in the wonder of Purim and emerge from this time of merriment and partying into moments of rediscovered joy and spiritual abandonment. As we approach Purim this year, you might want to find answers to the questions posed above. You can also regale yourself with a festival whose premise is that we have reason to be jubilant. So, in the dark of winter, please don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to make merry and be joyous. Have a wonderful Purim celebration! Rabbi Jonathan A. Panitz is the Rabbi at Bolton Street Synagogue. He can be reached at rabbi@boltonstreet.org
A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A
Center News The monthly newsletter of the Jewish Community Center of Greater Baltimore
Harry & Jeanette Weinberg JCC 5700 Park Heights Avenue Baltimore, MD 21215 410.542.4900 410.578.0102 fax
Ben & Esther Rosenbloom JCC on the Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Campus 3506 Gwynnbrook Avenue Owings Mills, MD 21117 410.356.5200 410.581.0561 fax
www.jcc.org MD Relay: 1.800.735.2258 Eric Nislow Chairman of the Board Buddy Sapolsky President Dale Busch Executive Vice President Ken Karsh Senior Vice President, Finance Phil Miller Vice President Ron Siegel Vice President Gail Zuskin Vice President Marty Cohen Membership/Marketing Chair Robin Rose-Samuels Marketing Director Esther Apt Center News Editor The Jewish Community Center is an educational, cultural, and recreational agency supported by The Associated: Jewish Community Federation of Baltimore.
Summer Membership Returns for 2011 Want your friends to join you at the JCC this summer? Tell them about our summer membership. Running from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend this membership includes full use of both facilities including our great outdoor pools, tennis courts and playgrounds in Owings Mills. Family $590 Individual $475 Single Parent Family $370 These prices include Joining Fee for new members
For the most up-to-date information — visit our web site www.jcc.org
For more information, contact Membership: at Owings Mills, 410.559.3506 and at Park Heights, 410.500.5910
2
Owings Mills 410.356.5200 | Park Heights 410.542.4900
Jewish community center of greater baltimore
FYI AARP Tax Service
Inclement Weather and Building Closing Info
Mondays through April 11; 9:00am-12:00pm Weinberg PH JCC
We offer a number of ways to get important information regarding weather related delays/closings or cancellations and special School’s Out days. Choose the one that works best for your daily routine. • Home Page Alert at www.jcc.org: lists building delays/closures, group fitness cancellations and ECE delays. • Group Fitness Hotline call 410.599.3599: announces weather related class cancellations • Text Alerts: sign up at www.jcc.org/textalerts. Receive information on building delays/closures, group fitness cancellations • Twitter: sign up by clicking on the Twitter link on our home page. Receive information on building delays/closures, group fitness cancellations. • Facebook: Become a fan of our page. Visit facebook.com/JCCBaltimore.
By appointment only Contact Danean Cameron to schedule an appointment at 410.500.5902.
Your Bubbie’s Recipes Cookbook Do you have a favorite recipe passed down from your Bubbie? Share it with us for our Adult Life holiday fundraiser cookbook! Please submit any recipes to Lisa Shifren at lshifren@jcc.org .
Adult Special Needs Purim Party Thursday, March 10 Weinberg PH JCC
Adults with disabilities are invited to join us for a Purim costume dance party. Food and fun will be provided! For more information, contact Stacy at 410.559.3576 or email sisrael@jcc.org .
Documentary Digest
Rosenbloom OM JCC March 7, 14, 21, 28, April 4 & 11; 7:00-8:30pm
A discussion group for adults with mental health issues. Once a week adults will meet to watch a controversial documentary followed by a discussion. This group is great for people with mental health issues to form connections and exercise their mind. $4/JCC Members and NM
Limited Parking @ OM JCC Thursday, March 24, 6am-12pm
Due to a Gordon Center rental on this day, parking will be very tight in the morning on the east side of the parking lot. We suggest you turn left to park if arriving between 6:00am and Noon.
For more information, contact Stacy at 410.559.3576 or email sisrael@jcc.org
ECE Silent Auction
Classic Rock of the 60s, 70s and 80s
March 8-10 Rosenbloom OM JCC - ECE lobby
This annual Silent Auction is sponsored by the school’s Parenting Association and will benefit the ECE’s purchase of classroom supplies, classroom technology and additional equipment for the school. Auction closes on March 10 at 5:30pm. For more information, contact Ellen at 410.559.3555 or email eolson@jcc.org.
New JCC Phone Lines Please note that the JCC has new phone lines. If you regularly reach a JCC staff member at a certain extension please make sure to look for their new phone number in the newsletter or on our website under Contact Us.
What: A showcase of classic rock with Baltimore’s best-loved bands. J.D. and Blades, Bedtime for Jack, and Mister Wilson When: Saturday, March 5, 2011 Silent Auction at 7:30 p.m.
Show begins at 8:00 p.m.
Where: Beth Israel Congregation 3706 Crondall Lane, Owings Mills, Maryland 21117 Cover: In advance — $20 per person* At the door — $25 per person Reserve a table of 10 for $180* Pub snacks included. Cash only bar.
Bring ! s Friend
Facebook: Battle of the Bands at Beth Israel Congregation Info: 410-654-0800 Thanks to our sponsors:
*In lieu of mailing tickets, reservations will be held at the door. Please mail your check, including your name and phone number, to Beth Israel. Because alcoholic beverages will be sold, attendees must be 21 and older.
March 2011 A Adar 5771
3
Children & Youth NEW JCC Twins Club
Saturday Story Time
Featuring PJ Library Books at Owings Mills
Twins 5 & under Sundays; 10:00am-12:00pm Rosenbloom OM JCC Parenting Center
Saturdays; 4:30pm
Calling all twins and their moms or dads! Join us for monthly get-togethers that will explore the challenges and successes of raising multiples. Kids can play. Parents can talk. Free For more information, contact parenting@jcc.org or call Parenting at 410.410.559.3524.
Tot Shabbat
Ages 0-36 months
Bring your little ones each week for a program full of Shabbat spirit, songs, candle lighting, Kiddush, and challah snack. Rosenblooom OM JCC Friday, March 11; 12:00-1:00pm Weinberg PH JCC Thursday, March 24; 12:00-1:00pm
FREE /JCC Member; $5/NM (free with parenting center pass)
Pee Wee Pizza & Play Monday, March 21; 12:00-1:00pm Rosenbloom Owings Mills JCC
Enjoy a half-hour of interactive story time followed by time to play and socialize in the babysitting play room. For more information on these programs, contact Sharon or Linda at 410.559.3524 or email parenting@jcc.org.
School’s Out Friday, April 1; half day Thursday & Friday; April 21 & 22
When schools are out – the JCC is in! This is an opportunity for elementary school-age kids to get the most out of school closings and vacations in a structured, safe and fun atmosphere. We offer a variety of activities including: indoor/outdoor recreation, games, cooking, dance aerobics and much more! $20/Kids Center participants; $25/JCC Members; $50/NM Extended stay available for an additional fee For more information visit: www.jcc.org/schoolsout or contact Lara Wellerstein at 410.559.3547 or email lwellerstein@jcc.org .
Summer in the Snow!
Families and young children can bring their friends to OM for pizza, dessert and open gym time. Invite other families with young children to join you
for an hour of fun! $6/JCC Member; $9/NM per pizza eating child *Extra pizza for parents can be ordered at $2 a slice or $13/ pizza pie.
Toddlers in Motion
Ages 18 mos - 3 yrs. Sunday, March 6-April 10; 3:00- 4:00pm Rosenbloom OM JCC
This program is for toddlers with different learning styles and their parents. Each session will consist of either cooking, gym activity or finger paint play. In addition to large motor play for children, parents are provided with community resources. $60/JCC Member and NM
Kids and their parents had some cold weather “sun and fun” during Summer in the Snow at the OM JCC.
For more information, contact Stacy at 410.559.3576 or email sisrael@jcc.org
Hands on Holiday Purim Party Tuesday, March 15; 10:30-11:30am Rosenbloom OM JCC
Wear a costume and join us for a Purim story, craft, songs and Hamantashen! A crazy good time for partiers under the age of five. $6/JCC Member $8/NM $10/Family
4
Owings Mills 410.356.5200 | Park Heights 410.542.4900
Children & Youth Got Shabbat Friday, March 4 Baltimore Hebrew Congregation Federal Hill (For Downtown families)
Contact Cindy to RSVP or for more information 410.559.3582 or email cneuman@jcc.org.
Off-site Parenting Programs
Everyone had a blast making their own leis, ukuleles and more at our Hawaiian Havdallah this winter!
Have Jewish friends who live downtown or in Carroll County? Tell them to check out our Tot Shabbat, Hands-on-Holidays and Infant Massage programs at the Jewish Museum, and in Fells Point, Canton, Roland Park and Eldersburg. Get all the details online, at www.jcc.org/offsite or email cneuman@jcc.org or kjacobsohn@jcc.org
Tot Shabbat
Ages 0-36 months March 4, April 1; 10:30am Jewish Museum of MD
Bring your little ones for a program full of Shabbat spirit, songs, candle lighting, Kiddush, and challah snack. Free
Cub Scout Pack 18 Grades 1-5
Annual Blue & Gold Ceremony Sunday, March 27; 2:00-4:00pm
Pack 18 will celebrate as the Webelo Scouts earn their Arrow of Light Award and graduate to becoming Boy Scouts! For more information on how your child can get involved in scouting, please contact David Green at dgreen@btfiloh.org or 410.602.2622.
Hamentaschen Hunt Saturday, March 5; 7:00-9:00pm Rosenbloom OM JCC
This Purim-themed Scavenger Hunt will include a costume contest with prizes! The pool and gym will also be open for family fun. FREE for JCC Members; $18 NM For more information, contact Dori at 410.559.3512 or email dzvili@jcc.org.
March 2011 A Adar 5771
5
Camp 2011 Makin’ Music at Milldale
Evan Nachimson is excited to take on the role of Camp Milldale’s new Music Director/ Specialist for summer 2011. Evan is a returning Milldale counselor and has many years of experience working at other camps as well. “I’m looking forward to expanding everyone’s imagination through music and creativity!” says Evan. “And kids can look forward to a lot of laughs no matter what we’re doing!” Evan will take on the job of Song Leader and each bunk will have a music period each week with him. He will also be doing a mix of classic camp songs including Jewish and Israeli selections and also incorporate popular music. This additional musical presence will be great and help to enhance our Shabbat program as well. Evan is a singer/songwriter and a recording artist. He has released his own music on iTunes and is currently attending Berklee College of Music. Evan is also recording two different EP’s expected to be released in May and September of 2011.
Discounts for Camp Milldale Are you interested in some great ways to save money on camp for 2011?!
Host a parlor meeting! Invite over some potential families to your home for an hour or so on a Sunday afternoon, and Camp Director Dori will come to your house, do some fun activities for the kids and answer all your camp questions! Receive $100 off of camp just for hosting (minimum of three additional families must attend). You can also refer a friend! For every new camper that signs up as a referral from you, you will receive an additional $50 off of camp (minimum four week enrollment). For more information, contact Dori at 410.559.3512 or email dzvili@jcc.org
TNT Camp -Limited Openings! Grades 6-8 Camp Session I: June 20-July 15 (Full) Session 2: July 18-August 12 Rosenbloom OM JCC
Teens who have an interest in working with children can have the opportunity to be assistants in our morning Noah’s Ark early childhood camp. Participants earn community service hours while gaining leadership and communications skills. Afternoons offer electives including: fitness classes, sports, leadership seminars, drama and arts classes. Interested? Contact Amanda at 410.559.3548 or email amax@jcc.org.
6
Capital Camp 2010 Reunion
This January, Capital Camps, our JCC overnight camp, hosted their 2010 camper reunions. Over 120 campers and staff returned to their “summer home” in Waynesboro, PA for Capital Camp’s annual reunion for Kaufmann & Macks Villages. Participants from the Greater Baltimore and Washington areas joined together for a post-Shabbat celebration complete with singing, Havdallah, snow tubing and lots of bonding time. “It was so awesome - I loved being back with all of my camp friends,” said Haley Weinischke of Bethesda, MD who will be a third year camper at Capital Camps this summer. Chad Gruzin who will be at camp for his fifth year this summer agrees, “Spending time with my best friends in the whole world in a place we love was great!” Benjamin & Reich Villages Campers also had a reunion. About 125 campers and staff reunited at the Bethesda Naval Base’s bowling alley for friends and fun. “These programs demonstrate our commitment to our camp community throughout the year,” said Jon Shapiro, Camp Director. “Offering programs like this deepens our relationships with our camp families and fulfills our mission to build Jewish identity.” For more information on summer camp or family camp programs, please contact the camp office at 301.468.2267 (866.GOT.CAMP) or email at info@capitalcamps.org.
Did you know that JCC facilities, programs and services are supported by THE ASSOCIATED: Jewish Community Federation of Baltimore?
$36
Give to Get $50 When you make your first gift to THE ASSOCIATED Annual Campaign of $36 or more, we’ll send you $50 in JBucks. It’s our way of saying,
BU
CK
S
Thanks for supporting your JCC and o u r Jewish community!
Make your gift today at www.associated.org/jbucks. For more information, contact Allyson Lestner at 410.369.9327 or alestner@associated.org. JBucks can be used for the following JCC programs & services: Camp Milldale, Membership, Sports Leagues, Classes (Art, Fitness, Dance, Parent & Infant/Toddler), Swim Lessons, Personal Training, Babysitting, Birthday Parties and Guest Passes. JBucks cannot be used for the following JCC programs & services: Massage, Café, ECE Camps, ECE tuition, Kids Center tuition, Gordon Center tickets, tennis and CSA classes and camps, BBYO.
Owings Mills 410.356.5200 | Park Heights 410.542.4900
Teens JServe
MIDDLE SCHOOL EVENTS
Open to all Jewish Teens ages 11-18 Sunday, April 10
Grades 6-8 Rosenbloom Owings Mills JCC
We will partner with the Jewish Volunteer Connection and area charities in need to complete multiple service projects. Details will be available soon.
Check Out the Spy Museum Sunday, March 6; 11:30am (drop off at OM JCC)
Interested? Contact Mitch Liebeskind at 410.559.3549 or mliebeskind@jcc.org .
Spend the afternoon in DC with teens from the JCCs in Baltimore and Rockville. Transportation provided. Limited space available. $15/person.
March of the Living Blog This spring, from April 27-May 11 thousands of teens worldwide will be participating in March of the Living, an international, educational experience. The goal of The March of the Living is to teach the teens the lessons of the Holocaust and to lead Jewish people into the future vowing Never Again. We have asked three teens that will be going on this trip with the Baltimore BBYO Chapter to keep a blog tracking their journey as they prepare for and finally embark on this incredible trip. You can follow them on our website www.jcc.org/MOTL.
Saturday Night Dance March 26 & April 9; 8:00-11:00pm Rosenbloom OM JCC
A great way to hang out with your friends and make new ones! Join us for dancing, an awesome DJ, open gym and snacks. Middle School ID required. No one will be permitted without an ID.
College Prep & Information Session – 101 Sunday, April 3; 11am to 12:30pm
High school students and their parents can attend this workshop to learn about the college admissions process. Find out what you need to do and when you need to do it! Learn about admission deadlines, summer opportunities, how to pick a college and when to visit. Don’t wait until your senior year to start! $25 Family/ JCC Member $35 Family/NM
SAT & ACT Test Prep One-on-one with 16 total hours $1175
Small group (up to 4 students) 8-two hour sessions $925 For more information, contact Esther Gunter 410.559.3550 or email egunter@jcc.org.
Baltimore JCC Junior Maccabi Games Tryouts Game Day: May 22, 2011 • Cherry Hill, NJ Ages 10-12 (as of 05/01/2011) Rosenbloom OM JCC TRYOUT SCHEDULE:
Boys Basketball
March 6; 12:00pm & March 13; 7:00pm
Girls Basketball
March 6; 12:30pm & March 13; 7:00pm
Boys Soccer
March 13; 3:00pm & March 27; 3:00pm
Girls Soccer
March 27; 3:00pm
Tennis (boys & girls)
March 24; 5:30pm & March 27; 12:00pm
Table Tennis (boys & girls)
March 15; 7:00pm & March 24; 7:00pm
Swimming (boys & girls)
March 2; 6:00pm & March 13; 7:00pm
Boys Baseball
March 6; 12:00pm & March 13; 12:00pm
For more information on Middle School programs, contact Amanda at 410.559.3548 or email amax@jcc.org .
March 2011 A Adar 5771
7
Teens
Lights Camera Action
Ages 13-24 March 1, 15, 29, April 12 & May 3; 7:00- 8:30pm Rosenbloom OM JCC
Chess Club
Ages 7-15 Sundays, February 20- April 10; 5:00-7:00pm Rosenbloom OM JCC
A fun learning experience for beginners and more serious players. A certified instructor will be running this program. FREE/JCC Members; $25/Session NM
Lights Camera Action! This is a recreational program for teens with mild developmental or learning disabilities. This social group is based around creating a reality film while participating in exciting activities such as karate, dance, cooking, and much more. The program will invite families to a premier night on the last night of the program. All participants must have an intake with the Coordinator of Special Needs before enrollment. $65/JCC Members and NM For more information on Special Needs classes, contact Stacy at 410.559.3576 or email sisrael@jcc.org .
For more information on this program, contact Roman Gertsovich at 410.559.3542 or email rgertsovich@jcc.org.
Rosenbloom Religious School of Chizuk Amuno Congregation
Hazamir Youth Chorale The Baltimore Jewish high school choir, comprised of 35 teens from over a dozen schools in the Baltimore area, still has limited spots open for the 2011 season. Rehearsals are on Sunday evenings, at the Park Heights JCC. Interested singers should contact Erika Schon at erikaschon1@comcast.net. For HaZamir March performances, see page 10.
8
Kindergarten - 7th Grade
Sign up now for Fall 2011 www.chizukamuno.org/rrs
Alex Weinberg, Director Please call for a personal tour. 410/486-8641 Chizuk Amuno Congregation 8100 Stevenson Road Baltimore, MD 21208
Owings Mills 410.356.5200 | Park Heights 410.542.4900
Adult Life Plus A Healthy Body and Soul at Weinberg Village
Volunteer Opportunities for Adults Donate!
Phil Baron is a Weinberg Village resident known for his great sense of humor. “He has hundreds of jokes stored in his brain!” says Gayle Newman, Director of Programming at Weinberg Village. Phil loves to cheer up other residents when he hears them complaining about aches, pains and doctors visits. He tells them jokes and is sure to call each person by their first name - because it makes them feel good. Phil carries his horoscope with him, he is an Aries and it describes him perfectly: “You have more joy in life than most people and are willing to put your muscles to work to create delight for others.” Before coming to Weinberg Village, Phil used to have terrible falls – of course he used his sense of humor to lighten those falls. He credits Weinberg Village for keeping him happy and healthy and yes…even falling less. Phil had been at Weinberg Village for only three months when his wife died. Phil made a decision at that point to start participating in every activity available! He began exercising and taking Tai Chi and Yoga. He also participates in the educational classes that Weinberg Village offers and attends Eating Together. Phil attributes the fact that he looks and acts young to participation and humor. “Being at Weinberg Village and participating in all the wonderful programs and activities that they offer, has enabled me to cope with things instead of falling apart,” says Phil. Weinberg Village is a campus setting for seniors that is connected by a footpath to the Rosenbloom OM JCC. The JCC provides onsite programming for residents.
March 16, 17, 18 Weinberg Park Heights JCC Lobby
For more information on Weinberg Village programs, contact Gayle Newman at 410.581.3800 gnewman@jcc.org
April 4 Janet Kurland-Keeping Your Brain Healthy May 9 Eli Schlossberg -Remembering Old Time Baltimore May 23 Miriam Botwinick-Learn how to Write Your Memoirs June 13 DVD Screening of Dr. Fotuhi’s Fight Alzheimer’s Early: 6 Steps to Keep Your Brain Young $1 JCC Member/per session; $2 NM/per session
Winter Movie Series Weinberg Park Heights JCC
The Blind Side March 2; 1:00 3:00pm
Join us for this cozy winter movie and hot popcorn! $1 per person For more information, contact Jana Klejner at 410.500.5905.
Donate Food and Toiletries in the Park Heights JCC lobby during our food drive. Help us with our Purim fundraiser by selling Hamentashen and collecting your Bubbie’s recipes to create a cookbook. The proceeds from sale of this cookbook will go towards our Senior Citizens Community Programs Contact Jana Klejner at 410.500.5905.
Volunteer In the Preschool Love kids? We have ongoing opportunities to sign up to read stories, or help out with lunch or playtime. Contact Lisa Shifren 410.500.5903 for details on these opportunities.
Senior Friendly Passover Model Seder Weinberg Park Heights JCC Monday, April 11; 5:00 pm
The Seder will feature a Hagaddah reading and a delicious traditional Passover meal. Fee: $8 SFN & JCC Members; $12 NM Transportation is free for SFN Spaces are limited. To RSVP, contact Arlene by April 1 at 410.500.5904.
“Remember When Series” Weinberg Park Heights JCC Mondays, 1:00 pm
For more information, contact Jana Klejner at 410.500.5905.
Weinberg Village residents had a blast performing at their Annual Cabaret Night.
March 2011 A Adar 5771
9
Art & Culture HaZamir Happenings
Jewish Theatre Workshops Presents “The Dybbuk”
Bach Concert Series Sunday, March 6; 4:00pm Christ Lutheran Church 701 S. Charles St.
The Jewish High School Choir will perform a special set in addition to the free Bach Concert. This is HaZamir’s second appearance as a guest choir in the Bach Concert Series. Gala Performance at Lincoln Center Sunday, March 27
HaZamir Baltimore will join other HaZamir choirs from the U.S. and Israel for a gala performance at the Frederick P. Rose Hall, Home of Jazz at Lincoln Center. Concert at the Gordon Center Sunday, June 5; 4:00pm Gordon Center for Performing Arts
HaZamir Baltimore will present a concert for the entire community. Stay tuned for ticket and sponsorship information! For more information, contact Conductor Erika Schon at erikaschon1@comcast.net or 443.831.4205.
Straus Auditorium, Weinberg PH JCC Saturday, March 5; 8:00pm; Sunday, March 6; 2:00pm Tuesday, March 8; 7:00pm; Saturday, March 12; 8:00pm Sunday, March 13; 2:00pm
Hannan, a brilliant talmudic scholar, falls in love with Leah, the daughter of Sender, a rich merchant. Sender opposes a marriage between the two and in desperation, Hannan decides to study the mystical arts of the Kabbalah in the hopes of finding a way to win back Leah. When Sender announces that he has found a suitable bridegroom for Leah, Hannan drops dead in a state of mystical ecstasy. On the day of her wedding, Leah says in a man’s voice “I have returned to my predestined bride, and I shall not leave her.” She has been possessed by the Dybbuk. $15/General Admission, $10/Students and Seniors Tickets available at the door or online at www.jewishtheatreworkshop.org
Norman & Sarah Brown Art Gallery Weinberg Park Heights JCC
Beauty of the Moment Through March 7
Exhibit features Sara Gorovits, Galia Bahary, Lina Kalmantyrskaya and Marlene Kurland.
Gordon Center For Performing Arts
Aging Matters: Helpful Answers to Complex Questions About Growing Older
Joseph & Rebecca Meyerhoff Gallery
Works of The Baltimore Watercolor Society Through March 17, 2011
The Joseph & Rebecca Meyerhoff Gallery is open to those patrons who attend performances.
An Education and Resource Fair for Seniors, their Family Members, Caregivers and the Community
For more information, or to schedule a gallery tour, call Nancy Goldberg, 410.356.7469, press 5.
Sunday, March 27, 2011 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Keynote speaker William Thomas, M.D., international authority on geriatric medicine and eldercare, will discuss Eldertopia: The Rise of a New Old Age
“an evening with” John McCutcheon Saturday, March 12; 8:00 pm
John McCutcheon is folk music’s Renaissance man – master instrumentalist, powerful singer-songwriter, storyteller, activist and author. Think of him as an incarnation of Pete Seeger and Mr. Rogers; or, Will Rogers and Bruce Springsteen. He is righteously passionate and impishly playful. Tickets - $19 $23-show day and at the door
Breakout sessions. Expert panel discussion. Resource information. Cost: $5 in advance; $8 at the door. Call for a registration brochure: 410-654-0800, extension 210 Beth Israel Congregation 3706 Crondall Lane Owings Mills, Maryland 21117
To purchase tickets, come to the Gordon Center box office Monday-Friday from 10:00am-4:00pm or one hour prior to a Gordon Center Show. For more information, email info@gordoncenter.com or visit www.gordoncenter.com or call 410-356 SHOW (7469).
10
Special thanks to our Media Sponsors
Ellen Saval, CLTC, Long Term Care Insurance Specialist
Owings Mills 410.356.5200 | Park Heights 410.542.4900
Fitness & Wellness NEW Fitness Fun for Everyone Roman Gertsovich has created some great new programming! He is excited for kids, adults and families to join in on these new free recreational opportunities. Family Gym Night Families with children ages 3-8 Tuesdays, 5:00pm-6:30pm Rosenbloom OM JCC
Join us for a different group activity each week! Activities will be based on the age of the children attending including but not limited to: parachute, relay races, and obstacle courses. Free/JCC Members Table Tennis Teens and Adults are welcome Tuesdays, 7:00-9:00pm Rosenbloom OM JCC
Pick up games for singles and doubles – bring your own paddle or we will supply one. Free/JCC Members NEW Volleyball Nights Wednesday & Thursdays; 8:00-9:45pm Rosenbloom OM JCC
There will be adult co-ed pickup games, but juniors and seniors in high school are welcome to play. Volleyball is competitive, fun, and a great way to meet new people. 21+ Coed Softball League Sundays, April 17-August 14 (sign up by April 7) Rosenbloom OM JC
Drums Alive
Rosenbloom OM JCC
Drums Alive® has officially arrived at the OM JCC! This drumming and dance extravaganza is full of exciting yet simple choreography and powerful, fun music. We offer variations of these free classes for everyone: Power Beats Sundays; 12:00pm & Tuesdays 6:00pm Rosenbloom OM JCC
This class combines cardio and drumming to burn fat, improve physical and mental fitness. Golden Beats Mondays; 12:00pm Rosenbloom OM JCC
These classes are specially designed for the senior population. They feature rhythmic patterns of the drum to increase synchronization of brain wave activity which improves mental awareness and self acceptance. Kids Beats
Wednesdays, April 27-August 17 (sign up by April 13) Rosenbloom OM JCC
Ages 5 and up Thursdays; 4:30pm Rosenbloom OM JCC
To download a league application visit www.jcc.org/leagues
Family Beats
25+ Men’s Softball League
For more information on any of these programs, contact Roman Gertsovich at 410.559.3542 or email rgertsovich@jcc.org.
Saturday, March 19; 3:30pm
Families can exercise and spend quality time together. Kids learn movement, rhythm, and concentration. Drumming provides great exercise and is a healthy and fun way to release stress and aggression. Check out Drums Alive for yourself-watch the video from our January Launch by visiting www.jcc.org/drumsalive.
Shop Smart, Choose Smart, Eat Smart with Nutritionist Adrienne Koslovsky Rosenbloom OM JCC & Trader Joes at Woodholme Tuesday, March 8; 1:30pm Thursday, March 10; 7:30pm
A Trader Joe’s experience with Nutritionist Adriane Kozlovsky that will change your perspective on food shopping! The tour is about 45 minutes. 8 participants max! $10/person
March 2011 A Adar 5771
For more information and to register, contact Amy at 410.559.3534 or email aschwartz@jcc.org.
11
Arts & Culture Baltimore Jewish Film Festival continued from page 1
Five Hours from Paris
For My Father
Tuesday April 12; 7:30pm Israel 2009; Director: Leonid Prudovsky Hebrew and Russian with English subtitles; 90 min
Tuesday, April 5; 7:30pm Germany/Israel 2008; Director: Dror Zahavi Hebrew with English subtitles; 100 minutes
Terek, a Palestinian who is forced on a suicide mission in Tel Aviv to redeem his father’s honor, is given a second chance when his explosive vest fails to detonate. Forced to spend the weekend in Tel Aviv waiting its repair, Terek must live amongst the people he was planning to kill. To his surprise he connects with several Israelis on the outskirts of society, including the beautiful Keren. With nothing to lose, Terek and Keren open up to one another, and an unlikely love blooms.
At first glance, Yigal is a mild-mannered man who maintains a close relationship with his ex-wife and her new husband because of his devotion to his son. However, Yigal harbors a secret fear that stands in the way of his lifelong dream – he yearns to visit Paris but he is petrified of flying. One day while dropping his son off at choir practice, he catches a glimpse of the music teacher, Lina, whose dimpled beauty belies a growing emotional unrest. Yigal insists he wants nothing more than friendship, and the two begin a tentative emotional dance with one another.
The Matchmaker Thursday, April 7; 7:30pm Israel 2010; Director: Avi Nesher Hebrew with English subtitles; 112 minutes
Arik, a teenage boy growing up in Haifa in 1968, gets a job working for Yankele Bride, a matchmaker. Yankele, a mysterious Holocaust survivor, has an office in back of a movie theater that shows only love stories and is run by a family of seven Romanian dwarves. As Arik begins to learn the mysteries of the human heart through his work, he falls in love with Tamara, his friend Beni’s cousin. The disparate parts of Arik’s life collide in unexpected, often funny and very moving ways as he lives through a summer that changes him forever.
Holy Rollers Sunday, April 10, 3:00pm 2009; Director: Kevin Asch
Sam Gold, an insulated Hasid on the cusp of manhood, is frustrated by the constraints of his beliefs and his father’s poor business decisions. When Sam is presented with an opportunity to make some real money smuggling Ecstasy between Amsterdam and New York, he cautiously accepts it—and quickly finds himself seduced by the allure of the secular world. Inspired by actual events, Holy Rollers uses the incredible story of Hasidic Jews smuggling Ecstasy in the late ’90s as a backdrop to examine the difference between faith and “blind” faith.
12
As Seen Through These Eyes Thursday, April 14; 7:30pm USA 2008; Director: Hilary Helstein English; 70 minutes
As Maya Angelou narrates this powerful documentary, she reveals the story of a brave group of people who fought Hitler with the only weapons they had: charcoal, pencil stubs, shreds of paper and memories etched in their minds. These artists took their fate into their own hands to make a compelling statement about the human spirit, enduring against unimaginable odds. Tickets: $10/film OR become a *STAR* for $180 and receive two guaranteed tickets for each of the eight films in the Star Series. You can purchase tickets online, in person at the cashier’s window, at the door or by phone at 410.500.5909. Check out the NEW Film Festival website to view film trailers, download ticket order forms or even look through Festival archives – www.baltimorejff.com.
Owings Mills 410.356.5200 | Park Heights 410.542.4900
Staff News Meet Sivan –Training Your Body Right
Employees Of the Month
Sivan Fagan may appear to be just a regular 23-year-old girl who likes working out, but she has much more expertise than meets the eye. Sivan has lofty goals for herself and began researching nutrition and fitness when she started lifting weights at the age of 17 while still in her native Israel. Her grandfather, a bodybuilder, is one of Sivan’s greatest inspirations. Sivan’s drive to become a fitness guru pushed her to succeed even when struggling though a foreign language. She has been working at the JCC for three years and says that working one on one with clients and being able to see them succeed and change their bodies is the “greatest feedback/reward you can get!” Sivan really enjoys working with staff and members that care about each other. Sivan mainly focuses on helping her clients with their flexibility and muscle tone. The advice Sivan gives to people who are interested in getting fit is to stay dedicated even if you don’t see results right away.
Denard Smith, a Personal Trainer and the new Discover Health Member Liaison for the Park Heights Fitness Center, came to the rescue this winter & single-handedly managed the Fitness Center & its employees during a time when his Supervisor & another full time employee had to be off for medical reasons. Denard took the initiative to make sure the Fitness Center ran smoothly. He arranged floor schedules, handled emergency repairs and stayed extra hours whenever needed. Our members couldn’t say enough fabulous things about Denard and his work ethic. We at the JCC would like to recognize him as well, and have chosen him as our employee of the month. Whitney Ehrlich, a morning teacher in a preschool plus classroom, took on the responsibility of planning lessons for the afternoon during her co-teacher’s absence. Whitney deserves to be commended for supporting her co-worker and making sure that the quality of the children’s education was not compromised during this time.
To find out more about our one-on-one personal training sessions or Small Group Training Lynn Rosen-Stone at OM 410.559.3535 or Jackie Foreman at PH 410.500.5919. To see an interview with Sivan visit www.youtube.com.
Q & A With Kim Jacobsohn Kim is the new Family Program Coordinator for Downtown Baltimore JCC Programs. Kim has worked at various Jewish organizations and schools. Q. What is your background in terms of Jewish programming? A. I have worked as a teacher and youth educator at numerous Jewish schools. I have also worked at the San Diego Center for Jewish Culture, The Smithsonian Associates and the US Holocaust Memorial Museum. Q. What is your new role with the JCC? A. I am creating family programming for birth to 5-year-olds and their families in the downtown area. I am really excited about creating more opportunities to connect people and to help our downtown families feel linked to the wider Jewish community. Q. What makes the downtown sector unique to work with? A. Raising my kids in Anne Arundel County, I understand what it feels like to have to seek out Jewish opportunities for them. The downtown families are looking for ways to connect in a different way and many are intermarried. Q. Is there anything exciting/new that you plan to add to the programs that already exist? A. My hope is to expand our class offerings, to create more events downtown and to expand the downtown community to include more unaffiliated families. For more information on the JCC’s downtown programs visit www.jcc.org/offsite.
March 2011 A Adar 5771
13
Chai Lights
Aquatics Barracudas Ready for State Championships
The ECE held its 9th Annual Pajama Party on Thursday, February 10. A great time was had by all at the carnival and book fair as the kids played games and read stories in their PJ’s!
Kudos to the four JCC Barracuda swimmers who have qualified for the 2011 Maryland Swimming Championship Meet being held at the Naval Academy March 3-6. They are: Callie Mills, Adam Todd, Joshua Tomlin and Kevin Whalen. Congratulations also to 15 of Barracudas that have qualified for the Maryland Swimming Junior Championship Meet. The swimmers are: Chana Frand, Rivka Frand, Jensen Friedman, Callie Mills, Kerrington Mills, Molly Schneider, Sabrine Todd, Katherine Warfield, Amie Wasserman, Justin Burnette, Vicenta Garcia, Adam Todd, Karim Todd, Gerard Whalen and Kevin Whalen. This competition will be held March 11-13 at St. Mary’s College.
New Competitive Swimming Camp for ages 9 & 10 at Camp Milldale We are pleased to announce the addition of a new camp for young athletes interested in improving their competitive swimming skills. The Barracuda Swim Camp joins our other Aquatic Adventure and Leadership programs at Camp Milldale. JCC Swimming Head Coach Brendan McElroy will lead the staff of the Aquatics Camps this summer. We are excited to be able to add more boating - including canoeing and kayaking – as well as open water swimming to our Aquatics Camp Program. Learn more at www.jcc.org/camps.
14
Owings Mills 410.356.5200 | Park Heights 410.542.4900
Associated Corner Seder Celebrates Women in the Passover Story and in Our Community Me Latte Café Adds More Flavor to the “J” If you haven’t visited Me Latte yet, it’s time to come enjoy the Mexican, American and Italian (pasta!) menu at the Rosenbloom OM JCC. Salomon Beramas, originally from Mexico, founded Me Latte six years ago as a kosher café on the John Hopkins Hospital campus. Me Latte brings bold flavors and fresh ingredients to its menu. The café’s bestselling items include Mexican chicken, chipotle wraps, a line of protein shakes and a fresh juice bar. In addition to an expansive breakfast, lunch and dinner menu, he also offers catering for anything from birthday parties to Shiva trays. Check out his menu online for details. Salomon is looking forward to becoming part of JCC life and the life of the community. He recently visited a Beth Tfiloh Spanish class to present a lesson on Mexican culture – including Mexican food. He is also partnering with JCC personal trainers to create post workout snacks and is providing lunches for the OM ECE students. For more information on Me Latte and to check out March Specials, visit our website at www.jcc.org/melatte.
THE ASSOCIATED: Jewish Community Federation of Baltimore Presents a
Donor Appreciation Event
Featuring Middle Eastern vocalist and composer & daughter of highly esteemed Baltimore cantor Farid Dardashti
Sunday, March 27, 2011 | 4:30-6:30 p.m. Gordon Center For Performing Arts 3506 Gwynnbrook Ave, Owings Mills, MD
For many women who welcome large groups of family and friends to their seder tables in observance of the Passover holiday, they are often so busy tending to the needs of their guests that they do not have the chance to fully enjoy the beautiful traditions of the holiday. This year, a few weeks before the holiday, they will have the opportunity to sit back, enjoy a meal and share a meaningful seder with a multi-generational gathering of women at THE ASSOCIATED WOMEN’s Passover Experience: Building community, honoring tradition and telling our stories. “I am thrilled to have the opportunity to come together with women of all ages, many of whom have not been involved in THE ASSOCIATED before, and share a very special event,” said Myrna Cardin, who is chairing THE ASSOCIATED WOMEN’s Passover Experience, and plans to attend with her daughter, Deborah. Held on April 6, 2011, at 6:00 p.m. at Beth Tfiloh Congregation, the seder will be an interactive, participatory experience for women ages 13 to 100. “Our goal is to make this a meaningful experience for women to share together, both with members of their own family and with members of the community,” said Mrs. Cardin. Through song, food, words and dance, organizers hope that the women who attend will leave feeling a stronger connection to their community and be inspired Jewishly. In addition, they will take away creative ideas to incorporate into their own seders at home. For over 30 years, groups of women have come together to host community seders as a celebration of the role women play in the Passover story. At THE ASSOCIATED’s last seder for women in 2003, nearly 500 women attended the event. The cost of the event is $54 per person. To register for the seder, visit www.associated.org/womensseder or call Pam Martin at 410.369.9201.
To order your tickets – REGISTER ONLINE at www.associated.org/concert. Limited tickets available - general seating only. Tickets are required for each guest and must be obtained in advance. Adults $10. Children 8-18 are complimentary. This performance is made possible with a generous grant from Terry and James Rubenstein.
For more information, please contact Rebecca Prodoehl at 410.369.9257 or rprodoehl@associated.org.
March 2011 A Adar 5771
15
Eden Café
March Hours Sunday 7:00am-7:00pm Monday-Thursday 5:30am-10:00pm Fridays March 4 & 11 5:30am-5:00pm Fridays March 18 & 25 5:30am-6:00pm Saturday – Park Heights March 5 & 12 Only 7:30-11:00pm Fitness Center closes at 10:30pm
at the Weinberg PH JCC Phone: 410.542.5185 eden.cafe@hotmail.com Sunday: 9:00am-6:00pm Mon.-Thurs.: 9:00am-8:00pm Friday: 9:00am-3:00pm Saturday: 7:30-11:00tpm
Me • Latté
at the Rosenbloom OM JCC Phone: 410.559.3531 www.melatte.com Sunday: 7:30am-5:00pm Mon.-Thurs.: 6:30am-8:00pm Friday: 6:30am-2:00pm
Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Jewish Community Center 5700 Park Heights Avenue Baltimore, MD 21215
Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage P A I D Baltimore, MD Permit No. 885
Saturday – Owings Mills 1:00-6:00pm
Weinberg Park Heights: 410.542.4900 Rosenbloom Owings Mills: 410.356.5200
Tell your friends about
Summer Membership Details on page 2
Now there’s another great reason to enjoy our Shapiro Rec Park this summer with our new interactive Sprayground. This multi-sensory attraction is ideal for toddlers through age 10. Among its features is a zero-depth entry making it equally accessible for children and teens with disabilities. The Sprayground will cover 4500 sq. ft. and will replace one of our baby pools The plan is to begin construction in April 2011 with the goal of completion by Memorial Day weekend.
JCCs of North America
New Sprayground Opening at OM this summer!