Center News
A Newsletter of the Jewish Community Center of Greater Baltimore
Buddy Leaves a Lasting Legacy If
If you know Buddy Sapolsky, you know that there aren’t many people as universally loved and respected as he is. “He can relate to anyone and everyone, from the newest staff member to the most sophisticated board member,” explains JCC Association President and CEO Alan Finkelstein. Members are equally important to him. “I think Buddy knows the name of half of our members and he is always open to listening to their ideas and feedback,” says Chairman of the JCC Board, Neil Demchick.
Buddy Makes His Mark on Baltimore
Buddy came to Baltimore in 1995 to a JCC of 8,000 members and under his leadership the JCC has grown to more than 17,000 individuals. His vision included not only expanding our physical space, but identifying ways to create a more dynamic, inclusive JCC that looked beyond the boundaries of location, religious affiliation and even membership to create one of the best Centers in the country. The JCC facilities you see today would not have been possible without a huge capital campaign that was started in 1996 with Buddy at the helm. Together with key JCC communal leaders and in partnership with The ASSOCIATED, the JCC totally renovated and expanded both of its facilities. Throughout the past 17 years, the changes and additions have created new Early Childhood Centers in both buildings, the Meyerhoff Health & Fitness Wing at the Ben and Esther Rosenbloom Owings Mills campus, and complete renovations of the entire Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Park Heights building. Buddy also helped champion significant facility improvements at Camp Milldale. During his tenure, Buddy envisioned stronger partnerships and affiliations with JCC’s sister agencies and other local organizations serving similar interests. Through these select
November/December 2012 A Kislev/Tevet 5773
partnerships, the JCC is able to offer more rich and rewarding Jewish experiences in synagogues, libraries, and other locations around Baltimore. In many ways, these strategic partnerships have enabled the JCC to alter its vision from one of a limited neighborhood meeting place to an organization that meets the needs of many small neighborhoods. “During the past five years, we have reached beyond our walls to serve Jewish families and young adults downtown, and in other neighborhoods outside the Owings Mills/ Pikesville corridor with programs like Got Shabbat, Downtown Baltimore JCC (DBJCC) and now Charm City Tribe” explains Buddy. The success of each initiative speaks to the JCC’s ability to meet the changing needs of the today’s Jewish community.
Protecting the Mission of the JCC
“We have always tried to stay true to the mission of helping people who are the most vulnerable in the community such as the frail elderly, teens at risk and individuals with special needs,” says Buddy. Enhancing programming for children and adults with special needs has grown tremendously over the years so that we now offer programs for all ages including a new resource rich website as part of the new Baltimore Jewish Abilities Alliance. Through programs like BBYO, JCC Maccabi®, TNT Camp (for Middles Schoolers), Moztai Shabbos at PH for teens and other initiatives, Buddy has helped to develop the JCC as a place where teens want to be involved. Buddy has also worked diligently to meet the unique needs of the Park Heights religious community too. From enhancing our single gender fitness options to opening our buildings to members and teens on Saturday nights when the clocks change, to expanding family and children’s activities, he has truly helped make the Weinberg Park Heights JCC a major community gathering place for area residents. Buddy continues on page 15
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Jewish Life Healing Waters of the JCC By Rabbi Gila Ruskin The Weinberg Park Heights JCC recently provided some soothing respite for a Milwaukee JCC member. When my friend, Rabbi Judith Edelman Green who lives in Israel, told me that her friend was coming to Baltimore for medical treatments for mesothelioma, I contacted him to ask if there was anything that I could do to be helpful. “Yes,” he responded. “My treatments are at 8 am and 4 pm. In between, I would love to be able to swim. My skin is so fragile that I can only swim in a pool without chlorine.” I asked him if he was a JCC member, because I knew that our JCC had recently changed the pool’s filter system away from chlorine. We set a date to meet for lunch at the Eden Café at the JCC the next day, and then he and his wife went swimming. This became their routine for the three weeks they spent in Baltimore. Eden Café was very accommodating in preparing food that he could eat on his special diet, and the pool was a calming oasis for them between the morning and afternoon clinical treatments at University of Maryland Hospital. In the ancient world, travelers and merchants could not have survived without the willingness of the “locals” to open their homes to provide food and shelter. Counting on the mitzvah of hachnasat orchim, hospitality, allowed our ancestors to feel safe when on a journey. In our modern times, hachnasat orchim can take many forms. We should always be alert to the opportunities that life presents to fulfill this mitzvah, as individuals and as a community. Kol ha kavod to the Jewish Community Centers for welcoming members from other communities, opening our doors, our pool and our café with generous arms and a generous heart. Rabbi Gila Colman Ruskin is the spiritual leader of Temple Adas Shalom-Harford Jewish Center. She can be reached at ima.abba@gmail.com.
Give Someone a Unique Chanukah Gift This Year! Make Your Own Dreidel Out Of Clay December 9; 11:00-12:30 Weinberg PH JCC-Happy Glaze Studio Kids can make their own dreidel plate at this special clay building workshop! Our ceramics teacher will help them create a masterpiece to give to someone as a holiday gift or keep for themselves. To reserve a spot, contact Merav at 410.500.5902 or email mlevine@jcc.org. $10 per child
A Birthday Party at the J
Book your toddler’s birthday party at the JCC! Parties are led by an experienced parent-infant instructor and will include age-appropriate songs, crafts, parachute play, bubbles and more! Reserve your spot now and save $50.00. Offer ends December 31, 2012. For more info, contact parenting@jcc.org.
International Guitar Night Gordon Center For Performing Arts
January 19, 2013 at 8:00 pm Gift the music lover in your life tickets to this annual touring guitar festival featuring Brian Gore, Martin Taylor (UK), Solorazaf (Madagascar), and Guinga (Brazil). Special Holiday Offer: Purchase two tickets for $40. For ticket information, contact Marilyn at mzvili@jcc.org
CENTERSTAGE’s “JCC Pass”
This special pass will grant one ticket to each of the remaining classic shows in the 2012-13 Season. Redeemable for any night and any seat (with the exception of Opening Nights). Pay a flat fee of $100. To redeem, just call the Box Office and mention the JCC Pass. (410.332.0033).This offer is only good for new CENTERSTAGE members.
The Amber Room Rosenbloom OM JCC Give someone the chance to be renewed and rejuvenated in the warm and healing atmosphere of the Amber Room. Choose from special holiday deals or purchase a gift certificate. Amber Multi-Derm Facial This premier anti-aging treatment will nourish, rejuvenate, tone and firm the skin, leaving you glowing and refreshed. 75 minutes, reg. $110 now only $90 Complimentary Waxing With any service of $50+, receive a complementary eye brow or lip waxing. To schedule an appointment call 410.559.2378 or 443.831.1625 or email polina@myamberroom.com
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Owings Mills 410.356.5200 | Park Heights 410.542.4900
Staff News Kudos
to JCC Employees of the Month Merav Levine ran an amazing Mini Camp at the PH JCC this summer. This year’s camp experience was by far one of the smoothest and most successful that staff have seen. Congratulations to Merav on a job well done. Joanne Polun’s extreme dedication ensures that payroll is always correct and on time, even during the times when there are hectic holiday schedules. Joanne goes above and beyond to make sure the job gets done well and she deserves a big thank-you for all of her hard work. Esther Apt, our intrepid Newsletter Editor, Publicist and Arts & Culture Marketing liaison took on additional responsibilities this summer as our Facebook queen, amateur videographer and intern mentor. She is always happy to help out and enjoys a new challenge. We are so grateful to Esther for her dedication and hard work.
Do you know about GIVING TUESDAY? We have a day for giving thanks. We have two for getting deals. This year, help launch Giving Tuesday, the giving season’s opening day, November 27, 2012.
JCC Staff (l to r), Merav Levine, Joanne Polun and Esther Apt.
The Leadership Transition As we bid farewell to Buddy, we welcome incoming President Barak Hermann to Baltimore from the Central Jersey JCC. Barak officially began his new position on November 1 and will work with Buddy through the end of December to transition into his new role as President. “I am very excited to be here as the incoming President of the best Jewish Community Center in North America,” says Barak. “ I feel very fortunate to spend my first three months with Buddy.”
WHAT WILL YOUR CONTRIBUTION BE? www.associated.org/getinvolved
Find us online at:
President-Elect Barak Hermann and his family, from left wife, Cory, and sons, Jacob, Jonah and Zachary.
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Children & Youth
Schools Out
Wednesday, December 26 and Mondays, December 31, January 21, 28 and February 18; 9:30am-3:30pm Owings Mills JCC Grades K-5. Don’t find yourself scrambling for childcare on school holidays and professional days –bring kids to the JCC to have fun with their friends! We’ll keep them busy with sports activities, games and crafts, and often an off-site adventure.
Inclement Weather? School’s Closed? The JCC is here for you when Baltimore County Public Schools are closed due to inclement weather. We will make every effort to have a snow day School’s Out as long as the JCC remains open. A snow day School’s Out will start at 8:00 am. Also note that a snow day School’s Out will be available to all JCC members and non-members this season, so spread the word to your friends.
Each Step Matters: Behavior Management in the Classroom
For more information on these programs contact Amanda at 410.559.3548 or email amax@jcc.org
From the Blog of PH ECE Director, Zac Price The overall focus in our school’s curriculum is to help the children develop skills and knowledge for life. We want them to be able to begin to solve their own problems. This is not easy and is something that we as adult struggle to do. So what do we do? To paraphrase Shrek, this question is like an onion. It has layers.
1. Acknowledge the feelings: We help the children identify the feelings they are having. Are they sad, frustrated, angry? Feelings often get in the way of thinking about the problem.
2. Discover what is it that the children want? This starts us on a path to discovering what the problem is between the children.
3. Have the children figure out possible solutions. They have control, we try to stay out of offering solutions unless the children are having problems coming up with one.
4. The most important step: we support the children’s attempted solution. They often need help remembering what they agreed to. We also are there to notice if the solution isn’t working. If the solution doesn’t work, then we go back to step 2 and try again. If you are interested in learning more, pick up the book titled You Can’t Come to My Birthday Party by Betsy Evans. To sign up for Zac’s weekly posts, email zprice@jcc.org
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Hands-on Holidays Chanukah Ages 5 and under. It’s a Chanukah Party! Celebrate with holiday songs, projects and a holiday related snack.
December 2, 10:00-11:00am Rosenbloom OM JCC Contact Parenting at parenting@jcc.org for more information.
Wednesday, December 5, 11:00am Enoch Pratt Library Southeast Anchor Branch Wednesday, December 12 10:15am & 11:15am Light Street Library For more information, contact Kim Jacobsohn at kjacobsohn@jcc.org or visit www.dbjcc.org.
Tot Shabbat
Fridays, December 7 & January 4; 11:00am Rosenbloom OM JCC Bring your little ones for a program full of Shabbat fun and a craft too! For more information, contact the Parenting department at parenting@jcc.org or call 410.559.3524.
Owings Mills 410.356.5200 | Park Heights 410.542.4900
Buy a Book to Benefit the PH ECE Join us for a Scholastic Book Fair and a Bazaar with an exciting array of vendors. The ECE will also be having a Chanukah celebration for the whole family! All proceeds from book sales will benefit the Meyerhoff Early Childhood Education Center at the Park Heights Jewish Community Center. For more information, contact Zac at 410.500.5936 or email zprice@jcc.org.
Natural Playground
Book Fair & Bazaar
Our preschool children have been enjoying the new Natural Playground at the Stoler Owings Mills ECE. This outdoor play space incorporates nature and enables our children to explore and use their imagination as they play.
Sunday, December 2 10:00 am-4:00pm Weinberg PH JCC
Book Fair Tuesday, December 4; 5:00-7:00pm Sunday, December 9; 10:00am-4:00pm Weinberg PH JCC
Book Fair & ECE Family Night Thursday, December 6; 5:00-7:30pm Weinberg PH JCC
Summer in the Snow
Ages 2-5 (Entering Kindergarten)
Sunday, January 27; 10:30am-12:00pm Stoler ECE Owings Mills jCC Families can come join the Noah’s Ark staff for some cold weather “sun and fun!” Meet our camp staff and find out what we have planned for this summer. Family fun activities are in store including face painting, crafts, games, and more! Sign up for camp at the event to be entered in a raffle to win $100 off of camp! For more information, contact Emily at 410.559.3557 or email epeisach@jcc.org .
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Teens
Ben and Melissa at a BBYO event
Teens Take Charge “Everyone in BBYO comes from a different background, but we all have the same passion,” says Ben Snyder, AZA President of the JCC’s BBYO Council this year. With over 200 teens in attendance at the fall kickoff event, our Council has hit the ground running. Teens have already taken a stand against bullying and partnered with area organizations to create an anti-bullying pledge and video. “The pledge promotes acceptance,” says Ben. The chapter will also be fighting against homelessness and hunger. They plan to partner with Back on My Feet, a nonprofit organization dedicated to engaging homeless and low income men in running as a means to build confidence. This worldwide Jewish youth organization, for teens in grades 9-12, empowers teens to develop their leadership potential, Jewish identity and individual goals. Activities include dances, sports leagues, weekend conventions, service projects and more. If you are Jewish and you are in your second half of 8th grade or older you can be in BBYO.
10th grade. When her friends took on leadership positions, she saw how close they all became through working together. This motivated her to get more involved and she is now BBYO BBG (girls division) President. “BBYO really changed my life,” says Melissa. “Before becoming part of BBYO, I didn’t have a voice. Now I speak out for the things I believe in.” When BBYO teens go off to college, they will be ready to take on the challenge of becoming the next generation of leaders. “There are so many former BBYO leaders who are making huge differences in their colleges and in the world,” says Mitch Liebeskind, BBYO Director. BBYO is an organization that crosses generations. “Whether it’s a high school teacher or a local business owner who was part of BBYO when they were younger–there’s an instant connection, “says Ben. “It is something that will stay with you for your entire life.”
Teens in the organization are encouraged to use their passion to make a difference. Melissa Davis started participating in BBYO when she was in
Motzai Shabbos is Back!
TNT-For-A-Day
Middle School 8:00-9:30pm HS grades 9:30-11:00pm
Grades 6-8 Wednesday, December 26; 9:00am-4:00pm Rosenbloom OM JCC
Weinberg Park Heights JCC Don’t sit around the house on a Saturday night- come to the “J” with your friends and enjoy the gym, teen lounge and more! Boys Nights December1, 8 & 29, January 12, February 9 and March 9 Girls Nights December 22, January 5 & 26, February 2 & 16 and March 2
“J” Dances Grades 6-8. December 15; 8:00-11:00pm Rosenbloom Owings Mills JCC Join us for dancing, a DJ, open gym and snacks. Middle School ID required. Get on our VIP list! Bring in the completed VIP form to the next dance and you can head right to the front of the line. $10/ JCC Member; $15/ Guest For more information, contact Brad at 410.559.3547 or bkerxton@jcc.org
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If you are interested in doing TNT next summer or if you just loved being a TNT this past summer, this is a great opportunity for you! We will spend the morning working in the preschool earning community service hours and in the afternoon we will do activities as a group. $18/ JCC Member; $25/ Guest For more information, contact Brad at 410.559.3547 or email bkerxton@jcc.org
Hazamir Baltimore Rehearsals on Sundays from 6:30 -8:30pm Weinberg PH JCC Join 30+ talented Jewish teens in grades 8-12 for an exceptional choral experience and meet hundreds of other HaZamir teens from throughout the US and Israel. We are now offering a 4-credit college course option for High School Juniors and Seniors. For audition information, contact Erika Schon at hazamirbaltimore@gmail.com or 410.653.1594.
Save the Dates
JCC Maccabi Experience 2013 August 4-9 2013 Orange County, CA For tryout information, contact Paul at 410.559.3546 or plurie@jcc.org.
Jr. Maccabi May 5, 2012 Philadelphia, PA Ages 10-12. Tryout Dates coming soon. Contact Brad Kerxton at 410.559.3547 or email bkerxton@jcc.org for more info.
Capital Camps
Baltimore Artist-in-Residence Enhances Camp Amphitheater
TNT Lottery
Tue., January 22 & Wed., January 23 at 7pm Rosenbloom Owings MIlls JCC For teens entering grades 7 & 8. Camp Session I: June 18-July 13 Camp Session II: July 16-August 10 Contact Brad for info, bkerxton@jcc.org. JEWISH WOMEN’S RENAISSANCE PROJECT
During the past summer, Capital Camps, the official overnight camp of the JCC of Greater Baltimore, partnered with Baltimore artist, Jay Wolf Schlossberg-Cohen to greatly enhance camp’s amphitheater. Schlossberg-Cohen, who, along with students and faculty, also completed a number of beautiful murals recently at Krieger Schechter Day School and both Baltimore JCCs, led Capital Camps campers and staff through a creative process, exploring themes related to Shabbat and the many aspects of camp. He then compiled their artwork and along with their participation, created beautiful murals that now hang prominently in the program and prayer space used throughout the * summer.
FREE Nine days in Israel
TAG 2013
TRANSFORM AND GROW TRAVEL the land from Tzfat to Jerusalem
* Not including airfare - limited airfare scholarships may be available
CONNECT with new friends for a lifetime
“There are so many ways for campers to interact with our fantastic facility. During this partnership with Jay, we found a real vehicle to engage significant segments of our community in a way that gives them ownership over developing and beautifying our camp,” said Camp Director, Sam Roberts. “We are grateful to Jay. He inspired so many campers and staff.” Learn about all the camp options we offer at www.capitalcamps.org
SUMMER 2013 Be INSPIRED
April 21-May 1, 2013
JOIN us IT’S LIKE BIRTHRIGHT FOR WOMEN
Apply online today, JWRP.ORG! For more info contact, Chaya Porter at 443.613.0513 or chayaporter@aol.com
November/December 2012 A Kislev/Tevet 5723
BZD’s Ultimate Summer Israel Experience June 23-July 21 INFORMATION MEETING Wed., November 28 at 7pm Rosenbloom OM JCC
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FITNESS AND WELLNESS WELLNESS SERIES 10 Keys to Healthier Eating Thursday, November 29; 7:45pm Rosenbloom OM JCC Explore how to shop for healthier food options, and how to separate facts from fiction on food packaging. Learn why the foods you are eating could actually be making you hungrier, and how to begin making lifestyle changes to support healthier eating habits. $10 in-advance; $15 at the door
Cold Busters Monday, December 17; 7:45pm Weinberg PH JCC Get some great tips for boosting your immune system through lifestyle and nutrition for a healthy, cold-free winter! $10 in-advance ; $15 at the door For more information on either event, contact Amy at aschwartz@jcc.org or 410.559.3534.
Les Mills Launches Weinberg PH JCC
Rosenbloom OM JCC
Saturday, January 12
Sunday, January 6
BODYPUMP, 7:30-8:30pm
8:00am: BODYSTEP
SH’BAM, 8:30-9:15pm
9:00am: BODYPUMP
Sunday, January 13
10:00am: Choice of BODYFLOW or SH’BAM
8:00am: Choice of BODYPUMP, BODYSTEP, or ZUMBA
11:00am: ZUMBA
9:00am: Choice of BODYPUMP or BODYCOMBAT 10:00am: BODYFLOW
For more information at OM contact Amy at 410.559.3534 or email aschwartz@jcc.org. At PH, contact Jackie at 410.500.5919 or email jforeman@jcc.org
New Year’s Resolution Weight Loss Program January 6-March 1, 2013
Enroll in our 8-week New Year’s Resolution Weight Loss Program and benefit from the expertise of JCC fitness professionals! Not only can you achieve great results, you will gain the knowledge on how to make permanent lifestyle changes. Enroll before December 20 to receive 10% off!
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For program prices and options, visit www.jcc.org/fitness or email Amy at aschwartz@jcc.org
FITNESS AND WELLNESS Make Time for Fitness? Yes, You Can!
Rivka Bier
The superwomen that we know don’t wear capes or fly -but they can kick, pump, lift, squat, shimmy and stretch! What makes these Group Fitness instructors extraordinary? They all have high powered day jobs but still make the time and have the enthusiasm to teach and inspire our members. It may not always come naturally and it isn’t always easy, but these women make fitness a priority in their lives.
Until she started working out at the “J” when she was in fifth grade, Shana Harris was a heavy child. Avigail Rosemore Motivated to become a certified instructor by the age of 15, she has been teaching kickboxing here ever since. Shana is the COO at local Marketing agency and has a busy schedule. She explains that for her, exercising is just like eating. “The same way everyone needs food to survive, working out is just part of my routine.” Pauline Lapine was also overweight growing up and her father encouraged her to bike ride and eat healthy as she got older. A Senior Advisor for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid by day and fitness instructor at the JCC in her “free time,” she strives to be a positive role model for her own children. “I show them the importance of making time for exercise, even if it’s just 20 minutes a day. You can start small.” “Once you realize the positive effects a good workout can have, it’s addictive,” says Rivka Bier, a top CPA. Rivka got involved with fitness because it was a tangible way to tackle her weight, but now it’s something she really looks forward to. “Exercise is my me-time,” she says.
Pauline Lapine
Still can’t find the motivation? Try this on for size. “I still have the same dress measurements as when I got married, even after having three children!” boasts Avigail Rosemore, a top executive at a financial firm. “Exercise gives us weight loss, muscle strength and definition, stronger bones, a lower heart rate, and is a natural stress relief,” she says. One last word of advice, “If you want to be able to bend down and tie your own shoes at 90, I better see you in the gym at 40!”
Shana Harris
On Sunday, October 21, participants wore pink to show support for Breast Cancer Awareness during our Les Mills launches at both buildings. November/December 2012 A Kislev/Tevet 5773
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SPORTS AND RECREATION
Team and Table Sports There are so many new and different activities going on at the J that it’s hard to keep them straight. Sports Coordinator, Roman Gertsovich, has been busy throughout 2012 adding new programs and activities so that our members have all the options they seek.
sessions have been well attended so now we are adding another session for adults. There is a chess tournament planned for the winter months, anyone interested can contact Roman. (Owings Mills Only)
TABLE TENNIS
BASKETBALL
Table Tennis – no it’s not called Ping-Pong folks – has also become quite popular since it was introduced a year ago. Five tables are filled each Tuesday night as experts and novice players mix it up. The class instructor, Steve Ashkenazi is constantly chatting up members and encouraging them to join one of the pick-up games. Table Tennis is open to members at Park Heights on Monday and Wednesday evenings and at Owings Mills on Tuesday evening.
Basketball is still the main staple of our winter gymnasium activity and 2012/2013 is no different. We have clinics and leagues for all ages that continue through the spring months. So whether you are looking for a pick-up game, league play or just shooting hoops – come on out and join the fun in both the Wood and Blue gyms out at Owings Mills and the gym at Park Heights as well.
PICKLEBALL
Spring will be here before you know it and we have got some great new recreational programs planned. This year, in addition to softball, t-ball, and baseball we will again have a pick-up kickball league. And if that isn’t what you’re looking for, then stay tuned as we are hoping for a brand new Roller Hockey League!!!
“We started Pickleball classes in the Spring and it’s been such a hit that we had to schedule classes to teach the newcomers how to play,” says Roman. The courts on Thursday mornings are hopping with adults learning the rules for this tennis/racquetball combination sport. (Owings Mills only)
VOLLEYBALL
There’s a lot of spiking going on in both JCC gyms too! Volleyball is a popular Thursday evening event at Owings Mills. Coed pick-up teams form each week and the competition is tough! Skilled players are always needed but all skill levels are welcome! Volleyball takes place on Thursday evenings at Owings Mills and Sunday morning and Tuesday evening at Park Heights.
SPRING LEAGUES
For more information on upcoming sports and recreational opportunities, contact Roman Gertsovich: 410.559.3542 or rgertsovich@jcc.org or visit jcc.org/fitness.
CHESS
Searching for some mental stimulation? Check out the chess classes on Sundays in Owings Mills. Our chess master, Alex Bardakh, teaches the basics as well as advanced strategy. Youth
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Owings Mills 410.356.5200 | Park Heights 410.542.4900
ARTS AND CULTURE Puppets, Portraits & Public Health by Artist, Maya Nadison Through Monday, December 31 The Norman and Sarah Brown Art Gallery at the PH JCC Gallery Hours: Monday-Thursday- 8:30am5:00pm; Friday- 8:30am-4:00pm For more information, contact Smadar Livne at 410.654.2265 or email livne@smadarlivne.com
Downton Abbey: Season 3 Premiere Screening Saturday, January 5; 6:30pm Gordon Center for Performing Arts
Rebbetzin Esther Jungreis The Committed Jewish Life
Join us for a sneak preview of this Primetime Emmy award-winning masterpiece featuring new cast member, Shirley MacLaine. Come in costume and enjoy the show, the night before it premieres on Maryland Public Television (MPT). This program is in partnership with MPT. Tickets are FREE. Reserve your seats at jcc.org/MPT.
Monday, December 17, 2012 8:00 p.m. at Beth Tfiloh Rebbetzin Esther Jungreis came to the United States after surviving the Nazi’s Bergen-Belsen concentration camp. Determined to devote her life to fighting the spiritual holocaust among Jews in the U.S. and around the world, the Rebbetzin founded Hineni, a one-of-a-kind educational operation that reconnects Jews to their rich and dynamic Jewish heritage.
A powerful public speaker, Rebbetzin Jungreis is equally at ease in front of tens of thousands in Madison Square Garden or face-to-face with a person in crisis.
VIP cocktail hour at 6:30 p.m. with Rebbetzin Jungreis for our sponsors. Visit our website for tickets and more details on how to become a sponsor.
ADMISSION: $18 adults | $10 students
The Jewish Theatre Workshop Presents
“The Curious Savage” by John Patrick February 7-17 For more information, email etan@ jewishtheatreworkshop.org or call the JTW Hotline at 410.709.8589. You can also visit www.jewishtheatreworshop.org .
Visit www.etzchaimusa.org to register.
November/December 2012 A Kislev/Tevet 5723
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ARTS AND CULTURE International Guitar Night Saturday, January 19 at 8:00pm
Don’t miss the world’s premier touring guitar festival. The show this year will feature Brian Gore (at left), Martin Taylor (UK), Solorazaf (Madagascar), and Guinga (Brazil)
This ‘n’ That
Walk Across Israel Winner
Not only was Pinky Speedone the winner of our Walk Across Israel initiative this summer, she lost 30 pounds doing it ! Seeing her marker continue to make progress on our huge map of Israel was just the motivation she needed. She swam a mile nearly every day ,participated in group fitness classes like ZUMBA® BODYFLOW™, BODYPUMP™ and SH’BAM. Congratulations Pinky!
The “J” has gone Mobile! We are excited to introduce our JCC Mobile App/ Website.
CENTERSTAGE – Five Decades of Plays Monday, January 28 at 7:00 pm Gordon Center For Performing Arts
In 1962, a group of civic-minded arts patrons including the Director of the JCC Drama department at the time, Ed Golden, hatched a professional theater company in Baltimore at the JCC. Ed became the first Artistic Director for CENTERSTAGE which is still thriving in its current location and about to enter its second half-century. This winter, come treasure a storied past and embrace a boundless future. Stroll down memory lane and uncover some unexpected gems as we remember the past fifty years of CENTERSTAGE. This celebration will provide a look back over the past five decades of hits and highlights. The evening will include actors performing selections from works such as Tennessee Williams’ classic Glass Menagerie, Eric Overmyer’s landmark premiere of On the Verge, August Wilson’s powerful Jitney, and Lynn Nottage’s much-loved recent hit, Intimate Apparel. For more information on these shows, visit www.gordoncenter.com or call 410.356.SHOW (7469).
Now you can check out our fitness, gym and aquatics schedules wherever you are. You can also see our upcoming events and follow our latest tweets, Facebook posts and You Tube videos. Plus you can find our hours or contact any of our staff with a touch of button! To access our mobile options just Google jcc.org on your smart phone or tablet and choose Guidebook to download the App, or Browser to use the mobile website. If you have any problems contact us at info@jcc.org or visit guidebook.com/baltimorejcc/
World AIDS Day
December 1 Rosenbloom Owings Mills JCC
Stop by and take a look at the JCS display that will be in our lobby from November 25 to December 2. World AIDS Day is held on December first each year as an opportunity for people, worldwide, to unite in the fight against HIV and show their support for people living with HIV.
Weather Related Text Alerts! Winter weather is on the way, and in the interest of safety we be forced to close the building, have a delayed opening or early closing time. Stay informed! Sign-up for Text Alerts, text “jccbalt. alert” to 292929.
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Owings Mills 410.356.5200 | Park Heights 410.542.4900
PH AQUATICS
NEW! Adult Swim Lessons Teen/Adult Beginner Swim
A Season for Giving
Ages 13 and up Female Only: Sundays, 12:35-1:15pm Male Only : Sunday, 3:10-3:50PM Learn introduction to water skills including submersion in water, breath control, floating on front and back with and without support; elements of front and back crawl. No experience necessary.
Teen/Adult Intermediate Swim Ages 13 and up. Female Only: 1:20-2:00pm Male Only: 3:50-4:30pm Learn the fundamentals of swimming including the elements of front and back crawl, independent floating on front and back and lap swimming. Must already be able to submerge underwater and float on front/ back with assistance. For more information, contact Shawnise Crawford at scrawford@jcc.org or call 410.500.5931.
C h i z u k A m u n o C o n g r e g At i o n
ASSOCIATED CORNER
presents
Justin Kallam knows how rewarding it is to give back to the community. For the past seven years, he has joined countless volunteers on December 25 for Jewish Volunteer Connection’s (JVC) Community Mitzvah Day -- preparing dinner for the residents of the Hannah More Shelter in Reisterstown. With most of Hannah More’s volunteer and paid staff off for the Christmas holiday, Kallam, his wife, Laura, and other Mitzvah Day volunteers serve up a meal of turkey, cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie for anywhere from 15 to 45 mothers and their children. Afterwards, if the weather is nice, Kallam will take the youngsters outside for a rousing game of soccer. “The kids love us. The adults sit with you and tell their stories. There is so much hope there,” says Kallam, who serves on the board of Community Mitzvah Day. Once again, Baltimoreans can roll up their sleeves and brighten the lives of those less fortunate during JVC’s Community Mitzvah Day on December 25. This program of THE ASSOCIATED: Jewish Community Federation of Baltimore is a wonderful way for individuals to help out their community.
A Festival of Lights Laser Show Saturday, December 15, 4:30-6:30 p.m. A dazzling Hanukkah Laser Light Show in honor of the eighth night of Hanukkah Plus: Delicious Treats, Musical Havdalah, and Dramatic Hanukkah Candle Lighting Welcome everyone–great for all ages! Reservations: www.chizukamuno.org/laserlights $6 each (max $18/family) Sponsored in Loving Memory of Daniel Joseph Siegel and Daniel’s Sparks of Change Foundation.
At the Weinberg Park Heights JCC, families can put together winter care packages which will be distributed to individuals in homeless shelters in Baltimore City and County. They can visit clients with special needs at the Jewish Community Service’s Assisted Living Communities and schmooze with these residents at a pizza and Karaoke party. There are a number of other projects including delivering packages for Meals on Wheels and serving meals at the Weinberg Park Assisted Living community. Even those who are away for winter break can donate items in advance, such as a case of water. Knitters and crocheters can take up JVC’s challenge to knit 1,500 hats and scarves this year. These will be placed in the winter care packages. “You can even donate a gift card to help offset the cost of some projects,” notes Dayna Leder, JVC Program Associate.
To get more information for JVC’s Community Mitzvah Day, go to www.jvcbaltimore.org and click on Community Mitzvah Day.
8100 Stevenson Road • Baltimore, Maryland 21208 • www.chizukamuno.org • 410/486-6400
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This ‘n’ That
BJAA Event Kickoff Close to 200 people came to the Kickoff of the Baltimore Jewish Abilities Alliance at the Gordon Center for Performing Arts on Sunday, October 14. This event celebrated the launch of BJAA’s website, which offers extensive local and national resources for families with children and adults with disabilities.
Interested in Partnering Up? Through our parent-to-parent network, the BJAA can provide you with an invaluable resource of someone who has navigated the same system and challenges. To be partnered up with someone who can offer advice or to serve as a mentor contact us at 410.559.3613 or email bjaa@jcc.org. or visit www.jewishabilities.org .
If you’re in your 20s and 30s, explore your Jewish identity with other Jewish adults. Check out one of these fun, friendly gatherings at downtown locations.
Make Your Own Chanukah Candles Wednesday; December 5; 7:00-9:00pm
Shabbat Pot Luck Dinner Friday, December 7; 8:00pm
Fry Something Chanukah Party Thursday, December 13; 7:30-10:00pm For more information, email Jessy Gross at jgross@jcc.org or find us on facebook www.facebook.com.charmcitytribe. In partnership with Moishe House.
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Owings Mills 410.356.5200 | Park Heights 410.542.4900
Buddy from on page 1
Center News The 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 Neil Demchick Chairman of the Board Buddy Sapolsky President Barak Hermann President-Elect Ken Karsh Senior Vice President, Finance Phil Miller Vice President Ron Siegel Vice President Gail Zuskin Vice President Jan Cardin Membership Chair Randi Buergenthal Marketing Chair Robin Rose-Samuels Marketing Director Esther Apt Center News Editor The Jewish Community Center of Greater Baltimore promotes and strengthens Jewish life and values through communal programs and activities for individuals and families.
A Role Model
Buddy’s values get to the core of what the JCC is about – giving people an opportunity to socialize, make new friends and connect with each other. “Buddy is a very special person,” says Rabbi Moshe Hauer of Bnai Jacob Shaarei Zion. “We have gotten to know one another while studying Torah and it is refreshing and inspiring to learn with him. He is an exceptionally warm and loving human being.” Phil Miller learned from Buddy early on in his career that relationships are the foundation for every program, initiative and partnership. “He has an incredible gift for creating authentic, caring relationships with people of all walks of life. This makes people want to work with him and partner with his organization. Buddy teaches by example, he cares about people,” says Phil.
Going Forward
So what’s in store for the JCC and how will Buddy’s hard work over the past 17 years play a part in this? “Whether it’s individual preschool classes, Maccabi teams, participants in a spinning class, or groups of home bound seniors in a warm house setting, the JCC of Greater Baltimore will continue to make a difference,” states Buddy. “I am also incredibly excited about plans to enhance Jewish Arts and Culture at the J,” he says. “It should be and can be at the heart and soul of who we are.” Buddy hopes that he has helped put the JCC in a good position to move forward, and he is confident that his successor, Barak Hermann, will take it to new heights. “We have the complete support of THE ASSOCIATED, one of the country’s most successful Jewish Federations, as well as passionate, intelligent and committed lay and staff leadership who will continue to charge ahead.” “Buddy’s legacy is in all of us,” says Mr. Demchick. “It’s in you, it’s in me, and it’s in the guy sitting over there. He has made the JCC a better place – and he has made us all into better people.”
Buddy Sapolsky JCC Fund for Professional Excellence With Buddy’s retirement, we are saying farewell to a wonderful professional who has led the Center with grace and passion for the past 17 years. In his honor, the leadership of the JCC has established the Buddy Sapolsky JCC Fund for Professional Excellence to support JCC staff training and other opportunities intended to propel our JCC staff to excellence. Throughout his 35+ JCC career, Buddy has always tried to help his staff grow and advance professionally. As a result, we believe this is a fitting way for his legacy to live on at the JCC of Greater Baltimore. If you would like to make a tax-deductible contribution to the Buddy Sapolsky JCC Fund for Professional Excellence, please visit www.jcc.org/ fundforprofessionalexcellence or make a check payable to the JCC of Greater Baltimore and put the Fund name in the memo line.
www.jcc.org
Checks can be mailed to the attention of Esther Greenberg, Development Director. For more information, call Esther at 410.559.3545 or email egreenberg@jcc.org.
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Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Jewish Community Center Building Hours
5700 Park Heights Avenue Baltimore, MD 21215
Monday-Thursday 5:30am - 10:00pm Fridays thru December 28 5:30am - 4:00pm Fridays in January 2013 5:30am - 4:15pm Saturday in Owings Mills 1:00am-6:00pm Saturday in Park Heights Fitness Center will be open from 7:30pm-10:30pm and Eden Cafe will be open from one hour after Shabbat until 11:00pm Sunday 7:00am-7:00pm
Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage P A I D Baltimore, MD Permit No. 885
Eden Café
at the Weinberg PH JCC Phone: 410.542.5185 eden.cafe2@gmail.com Sunday: 9:00am-7:00pm Monday-Thursday: 9:00am-8:00pm Friday: 9:00am-3:00pm
Me • Latté
at the Rosenbloom OM JCC Phone: 410.559.3531 www.melatte.com Sunday: 8:00am-5:00pm Monday-Thursday: 7:00am-2:30pm & 5:30-8:00pm Friday: 8:00am-2:30pm
Nov/Dec 2012 Kislev/Tevet 5773 Jewish Life. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Staff Info. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Children & Youth. . . . . . . 4-5 Teens. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7 Fitness & Wellness. . . . . . 8-9 Sports & Rec. . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Art & Culture. . . . . . . . 11-12 Aquatics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Associated Corner. . . . . . . 13 This ‘n’ That . . . . . . . . . 14-15
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Peace, Love, JCC! Tuesday, December 25; 1:00-4:00pm Get ready for some 60’s style family fun. Join us for games, entertainment, arts and crafts and a moonbounce! Celebrating For more information, contact Dori at 60 Years! 410.559.3512 or email dzvili@jcc.org
Owings Mills 410.356.5200 | Park Heights 410.542.4900