In the Loup by Staenberg–Loup Jewish Community Center

March/April 2009

In the Loup A Publication of the Robert E. Loup Jewish Community Center and the Mizel Arts & Culture Center

JCC & MACC Camps Pages 6–8

PLUS “The Golden Goose” takes to the MACC’s Shwayder Theatre stage for public & school-group performances from March through May, Pages 10–11.

macc at the jcc 350 South Dahlia Street • Denver, CO 80246 • (303) 399-2660 • www.jccdenver.org • www.maccjcc.org

In the Loup volume 2, issue 2

•

March/April 2009

In the Loup is a bimonthly publication of the Robert E. Loup Jewish Community Center and the Mizel Arts & Culture Center, 350 S. Dahlia St., Denver, CO 80246.

JCC Board of Directors Gary Wagner, President Kathy Neustadt Hankin, Immediate Past President Jim Kurtz-Phelan, Vice President, Governance Lary Weintraub, Vice President, Development Gary Yourtz, Vice President, Sports & Fitness Ken Glickstein, Treasurer Sol Leftin, Assistant Treasurer Lola Farber Grueskin, Secretary Scott Robinson, Assistant Secretary Elise Barish Rob Baumgarten Ellen Beller Dr.Steve Berman Rich Cohn Gay Curtiss-Lusher David Eisner Rabbi Bernard Gerson Paul Gillis Sarah Goldblatt

Kathy Klugman Jennifer Dinn Korman Alissa Merage Nancy Naiman Kaufman Doug Pluss Scott Reisch Dan Seff Debbie Shmerling Rebecca Weiss Sandy Wolf-Yearick

Lifetime Board Members Warren Cohen Gerald Gray

Robert E. Loup Robyn Loup

MACC Board of Directors Ellen Beller, Chair Vicki Dansky Evan Dechtman Sharon Haber Marcia Karshmer Robyn Loup Dana Melmed Friedman

Betsy Mordecai Heyman Joyce Oberfeld Jeffrey Reiss Steve Stark Carol Wagner Lary Weintraub

Staff Stuart E. Raynor, Executive Director Michael Rudnick, Assistant Executive Director

In the Loup Janice Silver, Marketing Director Jeff Bee, Creative Director Rebecca Friedlander, Editor Daniel Solomon, Features Jeffrey Hoffman, Graphic Designer Michelle Norton, Online Publications

From the Director

From the Director Spring is here and thoughts turn to summer camp. This is our second year featuring a Camp Central office, and we have added a program registrar to make signing up your child, filling out the paperwork and navigating the array of camp choices even easier. Even more exciting, we are adding several fresh, new camps ranging from Lego camps to Wii camps to a weeklong Harlem Globetrotters Youth Camp – all this in addition to our traditional kid-pleasing camps. Read about them all on pages 6–8. Although we believe all kids should experience camp, we are sensitive to the challenges faced by many in today’s economy and how this affects a family’s ability to send their child to camp. Because we are a community center, we are asking our community to come together to help other children enjoy a summer camp experience. See our appeal on page 13 and note the donation envelope in the center of the magazine. If you are able to give even a little, the sum total of your generosity will be felt by many. It is also time for the spring holidays, Purim and Passover as well as Yom Hazikaron and Yom Ha’atzmaut. Check out page 19 to learn about how the JCC is offering holiday celebrations for young and old alike. Returning after a two-year hiatus, Celebrate Family! will be held on Sunday, May 3. Open from 10 a.m.–1 p.m., this event celebrates children and their families by offering exhibitors, live entertainment, kid’s events, creative arts, play areas, a nursing and baby changing area, train rides, food and much more. Read about this much loved event for young families on page 5.

Another rite of spring is the MACC’s Denver Children’s Theatre. We are thrilled to present this year’s DCT production of The Golden Goose, open to the public every Sunday beginning March 1 and running through May 3. Read about this witty, heartwarming production on pages 10–11. Denver’s hosting of the 2010 JCC Maccabi Games is approaching and we continue to build awareness of this exciting event by profiling a few of our observant teen athletes, and their unique perspective on integrating Judaism and sports. Page 14 tells this story. Continuing in our outreach efforts, on page 15, we report on GesherCity, our newest outreach program for young Jews 21–45. At GesherCity’s one year anniversary, this program continues to grow and keep our young adult community involved. Finally, as a Jewish community center, we are proud of the programs and services we provide for our community. We have always believed in the quality of our Early Childhood Center programming, so we are now doubly proud that an objective assessment confirmed our view. After a rigorous evaluation, our preschool has earned a coveted Three-Star Qualistar rating. Read about this award on page 9. Have a great spring. L’Shalom L’Shalom, Stuart E. Raynor Executive Director

Around the JCC We Need Your Feedback! Over the past year, the JCC marketing team has tried something new – a JCC Members’ Business Directory. (See this issue’s insert for the latest edition). Designed to put members in touch with other members when services or products were in need, the Directory was delivered to all members three times via In the Loup issues. Now we’d like to know what you think. Did you read and keep the directory on hand? Did you hire someone from the directory? If you are a member who listed a business in the directory, did you gain new clients? Please send your thoughts to Janice Silver at jsilver@jccdenver.org. Be sure to put “Member Business Directory” in the subject line.

Swim & Tennis Lessons Thanks to our indoor facilities, swimming and playing tennis can be year-round sports for kids, not just summer-time pursuits. There’s plenty of time to enroll children in skill-enhancing group lessons during the final two sessions of spring, both at the Goldstein Indoor Pool and the Tennis Center. Six levels of swim classes are available for kids ages three and older on Tuesday & Thursdays as well as on Sundays at various times. The Tennis Center also offers six levels of Junior Tennis lessons on weekdays for children age four to 17. Programs begin in both March and April for the swim and tennis lessons. Call (303) 316-6444 option 5 to reach the aquatics department; call (303) 316-6380 to reach the Tennis Center. More information visit www.jccdenver.org.

Camp Shai Spring Camp In town for spring break? Why not treat your child to a week of days packed with the best of Camp Shai activities, including Ga-Ga, arts and crafts, swimming and even

field trips. Open to children in grades K–6, Camp Shai Spring Camp runs 9 a.m.–4 p.m., Monday–Friday, March 23–27. Cost: $280/week or $60/day. Sunrise ($25/8–9 a.m.) and Sunset ($50/4–6 p.m.) programming is available. Drop-in Sunrise and Sunset Care is based on availability for $6/hr. For more information, call Audra at (303) 316-6392.

From the Director

Soccer Skill Tune Up

Celebrate Family!

Boys and girls enrolled in kindergarten through sixth grade can get ready for their summer soccer leagues beginning in April at our Soccer Clinic. Held at Crestmoor Park, the focus is on dribbling and possession skills as well as shooting and striking the ball. A scrimmage is also included at the end of each session. 1–hour Sunday sessions are scheduled between noon–3 p.m. from April 12–May 11. Cost: $75/JCC; $50/S&F. Register: Jess at (303) 316-6304.

April is “Membership Appreciation Month” at the S&F Center We value our members and show our appreciation for the continued support over the years every April! This year we’ve put together a month filled with a variety of activities and events that include special group classes, free guest days, health screenings and giveaways. Look at the special calendar of events in the weekly E-Loup email, or stop by the Sports & Fitness Desk to pick up a hard copy. Not a member? No problem! We’re offering special rates on new memberships to JCC members who are not current Sports & Fitness Center members during the membership appreciation month. Contact a membership sales representative for more details by emailing us at sfmembership@jccdenver.org or calling (303) 316-6308.

Inside this issue: 03

Around the JCC

Around the MACC

Summer Camps ECC

04 05

06–08

The Golden Goose

10–11

Sports & Fitness

Camp Scholarship Campaign JCC Maccabi Games

GesherCity

Community Page In Brief

Board Members Holidays

Calendars

Hours & Facility Directory Tennis Center Gifts

Around the JCC

Around the MACC to the public. The art work on display ranges from representational to surreal to abstract art, in a multitude of media.

SINGER GALLERY

Paul Gillis Curiouser A Dozen Years of Painting April 2–May 28, 2009 Opening Reception at 5:30 p.m. on April 2 Born in 1941 in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Paul Gillis began his painting career in 1967; and through 1988, painted Message for you, 2007, oil on canvas, 48" x 72" in a flat, hard-edged style, drawing on the old spirituality informs our present and work of cartoonists and artists such as Jim that any strange future will likely be essenNutt and Art Green, as well as Japanese wood tially familiar.” Paul is hugely admired block prints. In 1979, he joined the legendary among other artists and has influenced a artist’s coop gallery in Denver called Spark. large number of them. Notoriously reclusive, this will be his first major exhibition “I often used myself as subject to consider the since his one-man show at the Denver Art situation of the artist in the world,” explained Museum in the early ‘90s. Paul. “During this time I incorporated more and more representational elements, especially after 1988 when I left acrylic paints for oil and watercolor. I have added technical diCOOPER BALCONY mensions to my work as I discovered them. I construct my paintings as stage settings where Art Academy Painting & Drawing complexities of the world are reduced to a few Exhibit and Sale actors and relationships.” Feb. 22—March 19 Since beginning to paint, Paul has also worked in bookstores, a book warehouse, a paint factory, as well as in landscaping and an 18-year stint delivering mail. Since 1998, he has also photographed the artwork of other artists in his studio (www.artworkphotography.net). Paul has done two public art works and received two state art fellowships. In developing his artistic themes, Paul likes to, “show that the past is with us now, that

Around the MACC

”I encourage my students to explore their individual creativity, and I stress innovation in the artistic process,” says instructor Toby Meyer.“The result is the wide range of styles and media you will encounter at the shows. The level of work is extremely professional and innovative.”

Art Academy 2009: Instructors’ Artwork April 5—May 17 MACC Art Academy instructors display their artwork in a spring exhibit in the Cooper Balcony, presenting a unique opportunity to highlight the MACC’s upcoming summer art classes (see class listings in the next issue of In the Loup). Don’t miss the fantastic artwork of the many talented members of our Art Academy faculty.

Artists from the fine arts painting, watercolor and drawing classes at the MACC, along with their instructor Toby Meyer, showcase their artwork in an early spring exhibition and sale. The MACC’s painting and drawing artists will also be featured at the Gilmore Art Center, 2110 Curtis Street in Downtown Denver, in an art exhibit running from May 3–27. The exhibit’s opening reception is Sunday, May 3 from 5–8 p.m. and is open

“After the Art Academy Students have their artwork on display at the MACC, many of their creations will be featured downtown at the Gilmore Art Center.”

Celebrate Family! After a two-year hiatus, the JCC is set to host its popular community event again this spring

Volunteer Opportunities Volunteers are needed to help set up, facilitate registration, guide foot traffic, staff activities and more. Shifts are 1-3 hours long. If you are at least 15 years old and would like to help out, please contact Shayna Friedman at (303) 3166325 or sfriedman@jccdenver.org.

Sponsorships Available

Save the date — Celebrate Family! returns to the JCC on Sunday, May 3. JCC members with young children may recall that in 2007, Celebrate Family! was incorporated into the Denver Jewish Festival. The following spring found the Denver Jewish community gathering to celebrate Israel’s 60th Independence Anniversary with a wonderful array of special events, culminating in an I-60 “independence party” held at the JCC.

As in years past, the public is invited to attend free of charge. Nominal fees exist for some of the festival attractions, such as rides and refreshments. Any money raised by the event supports vital pre-natal, parenting and young children’s programming at the JCC within the Shalom Family and Shalom Baby departments.

The traditional festival site, the JCC parking lot, will again be used, with some activities This year however, Celeset inside the facility. In brate Family! is back at the case of inclement Save the date home with the JCC as a Celebrate Family! returns to the JCC weather, the entire event stand-alone event. Dana will move indoors. Free on Sunday, May 3. Eckoff of Professional parking within walking Planning Group serves as distance is available at the event coordinator, a position she’s filled old Cub Foods parking lot at the intersection since 2004, when the event was first offered of Dahlia and Leetsdale. as Celebrate Baby! After a two-year absence, the Family ProHeld from 10 a.m.–1 p.m., the event gram department is excited to bring Celecelebrates children and their families by ofbrate Family! to the community in 2009. As fering exhibitors, live entertainment, kids Dana sums, “It’s been such a fantastic comevents, creative arts, play areas, a nursing munity event in the past that we’re thrilled and baby changing area, train rides, food to offer it again this spring.” and much more.

Show your support for the Celebrate Family! festival by sponsoring an activity or by making a donation. Sponsorships are fully tax deductible and depending on the circumstances of the individual sponsor, may also be eligible for the Colorado Child Care Contribution Credit. Several recognition packages exist — please contact event coordinator Dana Eckoff at dana@planitwithppg.com or (303) 321-4256 for details.

Vendors & Exhibitors Invited Do you run a home-based or storebased business that provides goods, services or information to children (age eight and under) or parents? If so, why not introduce your business to the community by renting a booth for the day? To learn more, including cost, contact event coordinator Dana Eckoff at dana@planitwithppg.com or (303) 321-4256.

Celebrate Family!

Meet Camp Central’s Program Registrar Camp Central is very excited to introduce its new program registrar, Sandra Yaron. As the program registrar, Sandra is here to help members register for any JCC/MACC camp programs. Now you can go to one place, speak to one person and get all of your questions answered; and sign-up for all your children’s camps at one time. Our goal is to create a one-stop-shop and make things easier for you. Sandra is a Denver native who spent many years as a kid and teen at the JCC. She has lived in Israel for 12 years and married her husband Eyal there in 1999. Together they have two sons, Lior (age 7) and Aviv (age 5). Sandra comes to the JCC after spending fiveplus years working for B’nai B’rith Youth Organization, and she also teaches kindergarten at Temple Sinai Religious School. Along with having camp-age kids of her own and being able to relate well to JCC/MACC parents signing-up their children for camps, Sandra’s love of working in the Jewish community makes her a great fit in this new position as Camp Central’s program registrar.

Summer Camps

New ways to play at the J is the theme of Summer Camp 2009, and this summer’s freshest, biggest news features a camp with larger-than-life counselors (oh, you have to read more!)

For those who want nothing but the most one-of-a-kind summer sports camp experience, there is the weeklong Harlem Globetrotters Youth Camp. Boys and girls ages 6–11 can feel seven feet tall in this basketball camp, where actual Globetrotters players teach kids to dribble, shoot, pass and play by the rules, and also Globetrotter-style. Campers also discover how fulfilling it is to build life skills, and how hip it is to embrace a healthy lifestyle through exercise, teamwork and self-confidence. To make signing-up for this fantastic Globetrotters camp even more appealing, Camp Central is offering Globetrotters Plus: If you sign-up for either the morning or afternoon Harlem Globetrotters camp (week of June 15–19), you can complete your day at the JCC/MACC by adding any other

JCC/MACC morning or afternoon camp and Supervised Lunch for just $100 more. Want to inspire the budding engineer/inventor in your child? Look no further than the JCC’s all new Ultimate Camp LEGO Experience, where everyone from the LEGO novice to LEGO maniacs get a chance to take their love of LEGOS to the next level. In both Pre-Engineering (ages 5–6) and Engineering FUNdamentals (ages 7–12), kids have the chance to create, play, learn and build. These camps challenge your child and get them thinking like a real engineer, exploring concepts in physics, mechanical and structural engineering and architecture as they build a city, buildings, suspension

macc at the jcc Camp Shai

An extravaganza of new camps to enthrall any Globetrottin’-hoopster, Lego-lovin’,Wii-playin’, Drama & Art-admirin’ camper

Next to peanut butter & jelly, another favorite dynamic duo for kids is sports and video games – and the JCC’s Wii Camp brings those together for campers ages 6–14. This brand new camp mixes virtual and live sports action as campers experience the Wii cube phenomenon in activities aimed at improving bowling or golf or tennis skills, just to name a few. Skill work then continues outside in the fresh air as this camp offers the perfect mix of inside and outside activities. For the camper whose ideal summer is creating an artistic masterpiece or being on the stage, the newest Art Academy and Wolf Theatre Academy classes offer the same unmatched excellence that you’ve come to expect from the MACC. Animate your artistic summer with a journey to the exotic continent of Africa in our African Safari (grades 1–3) and African Adventure (grades 3–6) classes where campers explore animals, art and culture using various media to create their very own wild, African creatures.

In Temporary Installation: Beyond Painting and Sculpture (grades 7–12), older students work as a group to develop an idea, devise a plan and turn these ideas into reality as they create an art installation. For the more experienced art pupil, Altered Books (grades 7–10) uses collage techniques to transform discarded books into new books with secret drawers, pull outs and woven pages. For your little “drama queens” and aspiring thespians, Pixar Perfect (ages 4–6) allows students to relive the amazing tales of Pixar Studios such as Wall E, Monsters Inc. and Toy Story, transforming each story into their very own play. Or they can experience some theatre culture in Little Einsteins (ages 4–6), which is based on the popular cartoon that incorporates likeable characters with famous music and artwork. Be sure not to miss a Wolf Theatre Academy first, a musical for 3–6 graders in a oneweek class. Students perform an adapted version of the popular and beloved musical Annie that has been specially tailored for young performers. This production is sure to have your child singing and dancing all week long…which come to think of it, is something we’ve come to expect quite frequently at many summer WTA classes at the MACC.

JSH

SUMMER FUN GUIDE Robert E. Loup Jewish Community Center Mizel Arts & Culture Center

bridges, motorized cars and machines, catapults and much more.

Camps, Programs & Classes for Children 12 Weeks–Age 18 Three Locations: JCC, MACC, Ranch Camp

2OO9 ™

You belong here.

macc

350 South Dahlia Street • Denver, CO 80246 • (303) 399-2660 www.jccdenver.org • www.maccjcc.org • www.ranchcamp.org

at the jcc

Want to Register Your Child for Summer Fun? Have Questions About Camps In the Summer Fun Guide? Contact Sandra Yaron at (303) 316-6307 Have Questions About MACC Summer Classes? Contact Lisa or Juliana at (303) 316-6360 Find All Camp & Class Listings: • Summer Fun Guide • www.jccdenver.org • www.maccjcc.org

Summer Camps

JCC Ranch Camp & Ramat Negev Thousands of Miles Apart Yet Thousands of Memories in the Making

Over the last six years, the JCC Ranch Camp has enjoyed hosting campers from Denver’s Israeli sister-community, Ramat Negev. Through this partnership, five teens travel to Ranch Camp each summer. Israeli campers join the Ranch Camp’s various teen programs like Teen Adventure Service Corp., and not only experience activities at camp, but also go out on camping trips around Colorado. “I know that each camper involved in this exchange, American and Israeli alike, have unforgettable experiences at the JCC Ranch Camp, enhanced by the international relationships they are able to build with one another,” said Ranch Camp co-director Gilad Shwartz. “This is a type of experience that they can only enjoy at a summer camp, where they are not simply tourists but members of our camp community. As someone who spent most of his life in Israel, I can say with utmost confidence that there is no better way to get our cultures together and intertwined than having this kind of exchange and interchange between these fantastic kids.” A memorable story from a recent summer highlights the immeasurable value of this relationship, yet also offer glimpses on the differences between the American and Israeli cultures. The anecdote involved Israeli campers who drank water and took snacks from their American peers. As one could imagine, the American campers were not pleased, to say the least, and expressed their frustration to the Israeli campers. The Israelis, in turn, did not understand why the Americans did not openly share their food and drink with them. “This is food and water,” they said,“these are the most basic things.You have to share it with others.” After a short

JCC Ranch Camp

(top left to right bottom) Aila Kozynski, Carman Soller, Natalie Schwartzman, Shahar Hadar, Tom Jennings Tamir Yaakovi-Yoger, Jonathan Rosenbaum, Zach Jacobs, Jordan Kippur

while together in a cabin, however, the whole group partook of items openly with one another, and learned from the “desert people” this invaluable lesson of sharing. This story demonstrates the great importance of Israeli campers at JCC Ranch Camp, and Denver’s continued partnership with Ramat Negev. These select campers go through a very tedious selection process in their community before they are chosen to travel to Ranch Camp. They are asked to lead and participate in different community service projects as a part of their application process. When Israeli kids come to camp, they not only have the summer of their life,

but they actively teach their American peers about Israeli culture and build solidarity with Israel through friendship and shared experiences. The JCC Ranch Camp simply cannot imagine a summer without its Ramat Negev campers.

Interested in JCC Ranch Camp? Visit us online at www.ranchcamp.org or contact camp directors Miriam & Gilad Shwartz at ranchcamp@jccdenver.org

JCC Early Childhood Center Earns Qualistar Distinction ECC continues to move forward in creating an unmatched environment for preschool education in the Denver Jewish community Elaine Lee Ensuring that the JCC’s Early Childhood Center provides the best possible program has always been a central goal shaping its educational offerings. In the past year, however, this goal required even more intense focus and coalescence than ever before, engaging the whole ECC community to earn their school a coveted Three-Star rating from Qualistar. The ECC achievement of a Three-Star rating was, in the words of the Qualistar lead rater,“A difficult feat for a large center. The administration and staff are to be commended for their commitment to the process and the effort applied to make changes that support a quality environment for children.” Qualistar is a non-profit organization that rates early childhood centers across Colorado.As the first school of its size to be rated in Colorado, the ECC won especially high marks in language components, child and teacher interactions and parent partnership – the latter category of recognition earning a perfect score. “The ECC strongly believes in the importance of quality assurance,” says Caron Blanke, the school’s director, explaining why the ECC pursued a Qualistar rating.“We are guided by our own ideals, Jewish values and early education philosophies, and we strive daily to be the very best Early Childhood Center possible. Many of the Qualistar rating standards are ones that we uphold as part of our every day work with children and parents; we want current and prospective parents to know that objective ‘raters’ see this high level of quality as well.” Since December 2007, with the support of a Mile High United Way School Readiness

(l. to r.) Diana Sarcone, Dora Muzykant, Elinor Rifkin, Ellie Woodward and Gina Pierre

Grant, the ECC has been working with a quality improvement coach from Clayton Early Learning Center toward the Qualistar Early Learning rating. Developed by 150 early childhood experts, the Qualistar rating measures quality in licensed early learning programs, both home- and centerbased, that serve children from birth to kindergarten. Qualistar rates early childhood centers on a 40-point scale in learning environment, parent partnership, group size/ratios, accreditation and training/education. Points are then allocated to a rating system with four stars possible. The Three-Star rating is valid for two years; then the school can strive for a new, updated rating by undergoing the evaluation process again. To achieve its current rating, the ECC permitted several raters to observe teachers and children in each classroom for a minimum of three hours, a procedure spanning four weeks. As for the resulting distinction granted, Kathy Neustadt Hankin, JCC imme-

diate past president, said, “It is evident that the ECC is one of the flagship programs of the JCC. The school has earned a reputation for excellence that is a source of pride to all who devote themselves to the JCC and the care of our community.” Since 1935, the ECC has provided a nurturing, stimulating and enriching environment for children to grow and learn. Jewish values are central to the school’s mission and are infused into all aspects of the curriculum, philosophy and goals for families and children. The ECC education is predicated on beliefs that children are competent, curious, capable and deserving of individualized attention. The curriculum is play-based, child-directed and emerges through the interests of each child. To learn more about the ECC or to schedule a tour, contact (303) 316-6377 or preschool@jccdenver.org. Register now for the 2009–2010 school year.

ECC

The Gold

Actors teaching theatre create ‘Gold

Spring ushers in many things in Colorado – glorious sunshine, unpredictable snowstorms and the beautiful renewal of our wonderful landscape. It is a time to enjoy life, shake off our winter doldrums and seek out new adventures. At the MACC, spring provides an adventuresome opportunity as we bring together some of the most talented professional actors in Colorado to present one of the region’s highest quality children’s theatre experiences. This year the MACC’s Denver Children’s Theatre will delight children and their families with a dazzling production of The Golden Goose (Sundays at 1 p.m. in the Shwayder Theatre; March 1–May 3). Adapted from the famous fairy tale by the Brothers Grimm, the play takes the viewer on an amazing journey as our hero, named Dummling, suffers many injustices because people are quick to judge him on his name alone. After selflessly helping an old man, Dummling is given the magical golden goose by the fairy king and queen and asked to help save the forest from destruction. Dummling then meets the dysfunctional King Conrad and falls in love with his daughter, Princess Dajona. King Conrad disapproves of Dummling and sends him on

The Golden Goose

several impossible quests in order to win his daughter’s hand – one quest takes Dummling to the famous Un-inventor Siebenstein (first in a long line of inventors that includes Einstein) who is working to un-invent man’s most destructive instruments. Much is learned before Dummling saves the forest and wins the girl. Thematically the story offers lessons about acceptance, diversity, environment, coming of age, and the triumph over injustice. Many who enjoy the Sunday performances may not realize that Denver’s finest actors are also inspiring educators. During weekdays throughout the run of the show, these actors perform The Golden Goose for schools from around the region (who come from as far away as Summit County). When the actors take their final bows

on May 8, the company will have completed almost 50 performances for over 10,000 adults and children. “The best thing about the Denver Children’s Theatre program is that we actively seek plays that entertain and teach, and never talk down to the young people,” said Golden Goose director Billie McBride. Billie, who has directed several DCT productions including last year’s Sleeping Beauty, added, “Then we teach again in the ENCORE! program. A great deal of thought goes into each class.” The ENCORE! program is a vital part of enhancing the educational opportunity of the Denver Children’s Theatre experience. This program includes a talk back with the cast, a backstage tour and a theatre workshop tailored especially to further exploration of the thematic messages presented in the play. And in many cases these workshops are taught by the actors students have just seen perform. “The ENCORE! program is so unique in the level of access it gives students to the performers,” explains Mare Trevathan, who plays Princess Dajona in The Golden Goose, “Rather than diffusing the magic of the performance, interacting with the actors and peeking behind the scenes fuels the kids’ sense of wonderment.”

den Goose

den’ moments of inspiring education

during the ENCORE! workshop has been such a rewarding experience. Getting to see the excitement and joy spill over from the play into the classroom is fantastic. Sometimes the most brilliant things I've ever heard and seen have come from these young people!”

“Teaching in the ENCORE! program is an excellent way to hear feedback from the kids immediately after they watch the performance,” said Brian Landis Folkins, who plays the roles of Boris (Dummling’s over-confident, yet helplessly flawed brother) and Prince Charles. “It’s so much fun to watch how the play affects them and what they take away from the live experience. It’s important to educate this generation of children about live performance in order to keep the art of live theatre preserved for decades to come. Getting to see a show and then attend a workshop about acting afterwards really makes it special for each individual. And for the kids to get to work with one of the actors from the play is super cool! They love it.”

The Denver Children’s Theatre works hard to provide these amazing young minds with creative inspiration. We know our ability to energize, engage and expand creativity is an important investment in a dynamic future for us and our community. We hope you will consider coming along for the exciting, fun-filled adventure that begins on the Shwayder stage this spring!

Denver Children’s Theatre Presents

The Golden Goose Based on the play by Charles Way Directed by Billie McBride

Performances for School Groups: Feb. 26–May 8 All school group performances are held at 10 a.m. School Ticket Prices: Students/$7; Two adults per school group/Free Recommended for grades K–6

Performances for the Public: Sundays, March 1–May 3 All Sunday performances for the public are held at 1 p.m. No Performances on Sunday, April 12 (Easter) Experience the magic of live theatre as a family.

For tickets and more information: call (303) 316-6360 Public Ticket Prices: $9 General Admission; $8 Children, Students, Seniors

Jamie Ann Romero, who plays both Meek and Birgit, adds, “Working with students

The Golden Goose

Who’s at the Gym? Two new instructors and a former Russian boxing coach are just some of the people you might see at the Sports & Fitness Center Introducing Jason Wetterstrom Jason first introduced himself to Sports & Fitness Center members last November by setting up a table near the S&F entrance and offering a drawing for a free training session with him. A Colorado native, Jason earned a B.S. in Sport and Exercise Science from the University of Northern Colorado and personal trainer certification through the National Academy of Sports Medicine. Following an internship at the Greenwood Athletic Club, Jason learned about the JCC S&F Center from a friend who used to play basketball at the Center. In addition to helping S&F Center clients with strength training, weight loss and sport-specific training needs, Jason also helps run a fitness boot camp in the mornings with a company called Rialto Wellness. When not working with clients, the naturally athletic Jason plays football, basketball and lacrosse. In fact, he’s considering playing some semi-pro football this year. During the winter months, Jason tries to get to the mountains for snowboarding at least once a week. Members who would like to book a

Nine Great Reasons to Keep Active in 2009 A Year’s Worth of Validation for a Lifetime of Benefits 1. Manage stress better 2. Maintain a healthy weight 3. Improve your immune system 4. Reduce your healthcare expenses 5. Lower your risk of heart disease 6. Increase muscle strength 7. Improve athletic performance 8. Relieve tension headaches 9. Encourage a good night’s sleep

Sports & Fitness

personal training session with Jason can contact Erin Crane at the JCC or call Jason directly at (303) 913-6565.

Spotlight on Michael Vigdorov Born and raised in St. Petersburg, Michael spent 14 years during his youth training and competing in 42 matches as a boxer in what was then the USSR. After receiving an education in architecture from a naval academy, Michael worked in a naval shipyard until the ‘80s, when he joined a Russian-American joint venture company that prepared, packed and shipped fish.

77. Of course, it depends on his work schedule, but Michael likes to get in at least four sessions a week if he can. A typical workout starts with a warm-up, followed by some speed bag work. If some of his friends are present, they’ll do a little sparring. Medicine ball exercises are usually part of the routine too. Although he admits he doesn’t follow a special diet, Michel does try to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables while minimizing fat intake. Sharing his love of boxing is one of Michael’s great joys in life. In fact, if you meet him at the JCC he’s likely to immedi-

Despite having a “day profession” back then, Michael would go to a sports club and teach his friends, fellow shipyard crew members and local children to box during the evenings because “boxing is the profession of my soul.” Many of the children he instructed went on to compete within the USSR. Michael and his family emigrated to the United States in 1993. After spending their first year in New York, the Vigdorovs moved to Denver. Not only did the Vigdorovs have friends from Russia here, but Micheal’s wife, who has a lung condition, did not tolerate the humid New York air very well. Soon after arriving, Michael found work through Jewish Family Services. Today, he continues to serve Denver’s Russian population by setting appointments for fellow emigrants who do not speak English and providing them with driving services. A regular at the JCC’s S&F Center, Michael still keeps up with his boxing at the age of

Michael works the heavy bag almost every session today (top); Michael instructs a young boxer in his native Russia (then USSR).

ately offer to teach you to box too! Michael’s informal boxing instruction invitation is open to all ages. As he explains, “Boxing improves everything – mood, energy level, health. It’s never too late to start boxing. Even if you start at age 50, you will find yourself in excellent shape at age 100.”

“Hooray! My donation to the JCC helps give scholarships so families can send their kids to camp this summer!”

These are tough times for everyone. More families than ever are struggling. Some can’t even send their kids to camp.

That’s why your donation matters so much now. Use the attached donation envelope, so you can make a difference.You’ll give a child a gift they’ll never forget: a safe summer of fun and friendship at the JCC. They’ll thrive and laugh and learn and play. Thanks to you. This magazine goes to 5,000 households. If every household gave just a modest gift, we’d meet our goal of $100,000 and that would enable us to accommodate every family in need. Isn’t it nice to know you can change the world? And don’t forget, your donation is eligible for the Colorado Child Care Contribution Credit in addition to your other tax benefits.A little extra summer sunshine for you, too. You benefit.You feel great.A child gets a summer of joy. Now, isn’t that worth getting excited about?

For information about the JCC or to give online, please visit www.jccdenver.org

Camp Scholarship Campaign

JCC Maccabi Games Kippot & competition fit together for Team Denver athletes who adhere to Orthodox Judaism

Jess Slosberg Competitive sports and Judaism don’t often find a home together – except at the JCC Maccabi Games. At the games, young Jewish athletes get the unique opportunity to enjoy a high level of sports competition and the company of thousands of Jewish competitors.

sense, and not in a negative way, but in a positive way.” Not that it was always easy. The Orthodox participants are a minority at the games, made more noticeable by the timing of the games last year, during the nine days right before Tisha B’av, when most religious Jews avoid travel and live music. Ben’s younger brother Gabriel, 13, also attended the games in San Diego.

“It was very nice to see all the kids in their yarmulkes playing basketball, representing their cities and Judaism,” Ben Sanders, 15, said. Ben, a 2008 Team Denver athlete, com“It is nice that my religion, and what I love peted on one of two local boys’ basketball to do, get to go together, and I got to do teams. While the competition was fierce, the both,” Gabriel said. “It was good to repreexperience ended up being more than just sent the Orthodox Jews by wearing my kipabout the quest for medals. It was an eyepah, eating kosher food and staying in a opening experience for Jewish home.” Ben as he interacted At the JCC Maccabi Games you stand with kids who practice Most of all, and most out in a sense, and not in a negative Judaism in a much difimportantly, the event way, but in a positive way. ferent way then he does. was fun. Gabriel said the evening events like “It opens your mind to different types of Jua trip to Sea World were all enjoyable and a daism,” he said, having met “…all types of good way to meet people and hang with Jews.”And now he is ready for 2009, knowing friends. The food, however, left something what to expect when so many different peoto be desired. But Gabriel and Ben are ready ple get together for one blockbuster event. for more. “I am every excited to go back. It He said he made fast friends with the other was a great opportunity,” Gabriel remarked. Orthodox kids at the games, as they ate most meals and checked out the other competiThe sheer magnitude of the games struck tions together. “We all got along really well,” Giselle Rotenberg, a female athlete and OrBen added. thodox Jew from the 2008 team. “I have never seen so many Jewish kids in my life,” Mostly, he enjoyed the fact there were other the volleyball player said. “I like the fact that kids playing with whom he could readily I was playing with other Jewish kids.” identify with because of their common bond as Orthodox Jews.“If you were to play These three athletes have been spreading in another league, you would not see other the word about the JCC Maccabi Games, religious kids,” Ben said about playing, with and a few of their friends are planning on his kippot, in sports with other kids. “At the going to San Francisco in 2009. Mason JCC Maccabi Games you stand out in a Wedgle, 16, the newest Orthodox Team

JCC Maccabi Games

Ben Sanders is one of four Orthodox Team Denver member who has found the JCC Maccabi Games a great venue to be both a competative athlete and an observant Jew.

Denver athlete, commented, “It appeals to me that I am able to play basketball at a high level of competition but still keep up my religion. I don’t go to some camps because they do stuff on Shabbos and this doesn’t conflict.” Become involved in the 2010 Denver JCC Maccabi Games as a host family, volunteer or Team Denver athlete (ages 12–16). Visit us online or email: www.jccdenvermaccabi.org maccabi@jccdenver.org

G ES H E R C I T Y — The one-stop connection for all things young and Jewish for ages 21—45

One Year Old, Growing Fast and Running Strong GesherCity launched in Denver and Boulder on April 2, 2008 with the largest number of unique cluster groups in GesherCity’s history. GesherCity is currently active in 20 cities across the U.S. with 16 more scheduled to be up and running shortly. A cluster group by definition is a volunteer-led group based around a common interest, age group, or area of town. Over the past year, GesherCity has continued to grow and flourish, as it has become the central hub for all things young and Jewish for ages 21–45. GesherCity strives to reach these young Jews by showing them nontraditional ways to meet other people with similar interests and get involved in the community. The goal is achieved through cluster groups, a public calendar, an in-depth resource page and a weekly eNewsletter. “GesherCity is a vital tool for facilitating grass roots program creation for the 20’s and 30’s demographic, in addition to acting as another funnel for young newcomers into the more formal Jewish community,” said Ezra S. Shanken, senior manager of the Young Adult Department at AJF. The most effective way to “get connected” is to join one or more of GesherCity’s Cluster groups. If you don’t find a group that appeals to your interests, you can always start your own, thus new groups are popping up all the time. Clusters typically meet at least once a month and provide a venue to meet other people with similar interests. These groups are run by either a member of

the community, or by one of the many Jewish organizations around town. There are currently 44 Cluster groups, and some of the largest ones include: Social Young Professionals (networking), Downtown Happy Hour Group, Jewish Hikes & Other Fun Stuff, Shabbat Dinner Cluster, and Newcomers Group!.

In just one year, GesherCity has created 44 cluster groups, including the Jewish Hikes & Other Fun Stuff group.

Another way to utilize the GesherCity website is to check out the online calendar for an overview of all events happening in the Denver and Boulder areas. The public calendar displays events from Jewish organizations, non-Jewish organizations and individuals around town to give people a 360-degree view of the community. Don’t worry if you don’t have time to check the calendar on a regular basis, if you sign up to receive the eNews you can easily see a summary of all upcoming events. GesherCity also offers a vast list of resources, which can be useful for your everyday needs. Everything from synagogues to the best pizza places, can be found on GesherCity’s website. If you are job searching or looking for a place to live, be sure to check out the message boards for recent posts. Participants are enthusiastic in their praise for GesherCity and its technology-savvy medium to stay connected. “GesherCity has been a wonderful tool for me because it has allowed me to make so many new friends by doing things I enjoy and would do anyways,” said Callie Greenberg. Added Racheli Stanley, “I attend GesherCity events when-

ever possible. It has been such a great way to meet other young Jewish professionals. I only wish I had more time to go to events!” Organizations are also thrilled about reaching this younger demographic through GesherCity. “We've found GesherCity to be a great way to mobilize young Jews in Denver,” said Eric Elkins, one of the founders of E-3 Events, a non-profit group for young Jewish professionals.“More and more of our target demographic is using [GesherCity’s] platform to connect with each other and become more active in the community.” GesherCity is a global initiative to bridge young adults to the Jewish community by providing access to Personal Networks and information resources. For more information or to get involved contact Lisa Feiner Walko at (303) 316-6337 or LWalko@jccdenver.org or visit www.GesherCity.org.

Geshercity

Community Page Notices from Around the Metro Area

The Colorado Jewish Reconstructionist Federation B’nai Havurah celebrates lively Music Shabbats the first Saturday of each month with an informal, family-friendly atmosphere. Babysitting is also available. The service is led by music director Hal Aqua and accompanists, and generally offers an interactive English discussion following the reading of the Torah. Visitors are welcome. The next Musical Shabbat is scheduled for April 4. Service begins at 9:30 a.m. in the B’nai Havurah sanctuary located at 6445East Ohio Ave. (one block south of the intersection of Leetsdale and Monaco.) For more information, please visit www.bnaihavurah.org or call Tia Amdurer at (303) 388-4441.

Hebrew Education Alliance Join us on Tuesday, March 31 for a piano concert played by Blanche Greenberg and other guests in a private home. Space is limited, so RSVP early to Naomi Kirshner at (303) 758-9400 x213 or nkirshner@headenver.org. This event, which runs from 10:30 a.m.–noon, is open to all and free of charge. Refreshments served once the music concludes. This Morning of Music event is sponsored by the Hebrew Educational Alliance and underwritten by the Bachove Fund for Creative Senior Programming.

Jewish Family Services of Colorado (JFS) Each year, the Rocky Mountain Rabbinical Council, the Synagogue Council of Greater Denver, and Jewish Family Service (JFS) join forces to provide Passover food packages for families in need. JFS seeks volunteers to personally deliver the food packages to recipients in early April. For more information, please contact Nancy Benyamin, JFS director of volunteer resources, by March 20 at (303) 597-5000 x369.

Community Page

JFS is currently seeking volunteers for its Bikur Cholim (Visiting the Sick) para-chaplain program. Training sessions for 2009 are held on April 23 & 30 and May 6 & 13 from 5:30–8:30 p.m. at JFS. Bikur Cholim parachaplains assist Jewish Family Service by providing spiritual support and a Jewish connection to isolated members of the Jewish community. These invaluable volunteers serve residents in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, prisons and hospitals. In addition, para-chaplains conduct Shabbat and holiday services in various long-term care facilities, assisted living facilities, retirement communities, a mental health center and several correctional facilities. In order to be a para-chaplain, volunteers must be Jewish, but do not need an extensive Jewish education. If you wish to lead services, you will need a more extensive Jewish background, but there are other rewarding options available such as being a visitor in a nursing home, assisted living facility or private home. For more information or to sign up for the training, please contact Nancy Benyamin, JFS director of volunteer resources, at (303) 597-5000 x369.

adults on Saturday, March 14. For an invitation, contact the temple office, (303) 3884239, office@micahdenver.org, or learn more about this friendly, inclusive congregation at www.micahdenver.org. …Next up is the Temple Micah Community Passover Seder at 6 p.m. on the first night of the holiday, Wednesday, April 8; make reservations now!

Where’s The Inside Buzz? Due to the space limitations The Inside Buzz does not appear in this issue. Members and staff previously interviewed for The Inside Buzz will be featured with their question response and photograph in our May/June publication. Thank you for your patience.

Temple Micah Temple Micah’s PURIMania, a morning of revelry, happens Sunday, March 8 at the Denver Campus for Jewish Education, 2450 S. Wabash St. Children of all ages and adults young at heart are welcome to enjoy a Creative Megillah Reading, retelling the tale of the Book of Esther at 10 a.m., and a Purim Carnival of goofiness galore at 10:30 a.m. There is a nominal fee for the carnival; costumes are encouraged. …The Spring Event & Silent Auction, Temple Micah’s largest annual fundraising project to benefit the synagogue, promises an elating evening for

vent listings and announcements for Community Page are accepted on a rolling addmission, in the order of submission, on a space-available basis. This is a free service provided to the Jewish community. Generally, this page fills three months prior to print. To submit your material, or check on space availability, email rfriedlander@jccdenver.org.

In Brief

News Briefs from Around the JCC

together while seated at several large tables, Facility News watching the kids play and catching up with Shayna Friedman joined the JCC as Family Chuck E. Cheese in Englewood was the site one another. Gathering for reunions isn’t Programs director right after the New Year. for a Jewish Baby University (JBU) class the only time this class gets together. Originally from Baton Rouge, Shayna has a reunion on January 11. As the new year apAccording to Lisa, there’s a regular ThursMasters degree in Jewish Education and has proached, Vern Engbar kept mentioning to day play group, Shabbat dinners, birthday worked in the Center for Teaching and wife Lisa that it’d been five years and “they parties and more. As she admits, “It’s Learning at CAJE and as the religious definitely JBU that brought us todirector at the Hebrew Educational gether. Five years later we all still have Alliance. Most recently, she returns a special bond and friendships.” One from serving as a Jewish educator at member of the JBU reunion group, the Boca Raton JCC in Florida. Shayna Alissa Merage, chairs the Shalom is married to Rabbi Jordan Friedman Family program committee and sits and has three sons, two of whom aton the JCC board. …The Rose & tend the Early Childhood Center. Robyn Loup Child Care Center, Shayna is replacing former director which moved to Room 206 last Beth Berger who became a first-time August, underwent an expansion in mom last fall with the birth of her February. The recent renovation was daughter, Cayla. Beth will be returndone to help meet a growing demand ing to the JCC on a part-time basis as for child care. Hours and cost of servthe assistant games director for the ice remain the same; reservations for 2010 Denver JCC Maccabi Games. mornings, Fridays and Sundays are …Sandra Yaron is the latest addition still recommended though. The to Camp Central. She is filling the Center offers an assortment of activinewly created Program Registrar poties including face painting, creative sition in the department and can be arts, puzzles, games and much more found weekdays in the Camp Central for its 6-week to eight year old office which is located off the main charges. For more information, please lobby. …Nicole Vaiana has been hired call (303) 316-6301. In order to acas the Sea Stars Swim Team head commodate the growing child care coach for the summer season. A Dencenter (the space has doubled!), the ver native, Nicole recently completed One of the JCC's most popular programs, JBU, has a history of bringing computer room was moved to right her college swimming career at the young families together, inspiring "class" reunions as early as post-delivoff the JCC main lobby. …How University of Houston last July. After ery above top), weekly play groups, holiday and shabbat gatherings and quickly time flies! This issue marks spending many years in Texas, Nicole even every five year reunions (above bottom). the anniversary of our publication’s is “excited to be living in Colorado redesign. A year ago we combined the should do something.” Out of the 13 origiagain” and is ready to “share her passion for formerly separate Artsline and Centerline nal expecting couples, nine were able to swimming with the members of our team.” sections to form a seamlessly formatted In attend with their children, bringing the tally Nicole, along with assistant coach Jeremy the Loup facility magazine. And, in case you to 18 adults and 16 children. (Lisa also notes Allison, promises to provide each swim haven’t noticed, we switched to all-color that the group has since “adopted” another team member with a good cardiovascular pages this past year as well! couple from the JCC’s equally popular work-out and stroke improvement help

Staff News

as well.

post-partum Bagels & Blocks program.) The group spent the night enjoying pizza

In Brief

Meet the Newest JCC & MACC Board Members The New Year brought a handful of new board members to the JCC. Learn more about them, as well as the MACC’s newest board member approximately 10 years, Vicki now focuses most of her attention on nonprofit organizations. Presently, she is helping Rose Community Foundation establish its planned giving program, and she was a member of its Jewish Life Committee for six years. She is a board member of ISIME, and Elise Barish Steve Berman, M.D. Debbie Shmerling Vicki Perlmutter Dansky has been a board member of Herzl/RMHA, Elise Barish moved to Denver in 1997 to world of Pediatrics. He has served as Conthe Jewish Resource Committee of the AJF, join Founders Asset Management as an Eqsultant to the World Health Organization and served as President of Rose Women’s Oruity Analyst. She later joined Cordillera and Pan American Health Organization on ganization (2000–2002). Vicki is married to Asset Management as a Vice President and Control of Acute Respiratory Infections; David Dansky and they have two daughters, Equity Analyst. A Chartered Financial AnaNational Chairman of the American Acadages 13 and 15. lyst (CFA), she earned her MBA at Columemy of Pediatrics Committee on Child bia University and a bachelors degree from Health Financing; Director of Health PolThe Wharton School at the University of icy and State Medically Indigent Programs Responsibilities of a JCC Pennsylvania. She serves on the Council of for the University of Colorado; and PresiBoard Member National Trustees at National Jewish Health dent of Colorado Bright Beginnings. He is and also volunteers her time at her chilmarried to Elaine Gantz Berman, former The JCC is a community asset, drawing dren's school and at the Allied Jewish Fedco-president of the board of the JCC. upon community leaders and visionareration of Colorado. Elise is part of a giving ies for its board members. Board memtrust that proactively donates to local orDebbie Shmerling is new to Denver. She bers at the JCC are not figureheads but ganizations. She is currently an at-home and her husband Jim, president and CEO of are active members of the governing mom of four children and is married to The Children’s Hospital, moved to Denver structure of this multifaceted entity. Brian Barish. last year from Nashville, Tennessee where Based on their professional and philanDebbie was active in the Jewish Federation thropic experiences, board members Steve Berman, M.D., is a well-known pediof Nashville and Middle Tennessee and the bring a wide range of expertise to the atrician, author and former president of the local JCC. She and Jim have four grown process of financially and programmatAmerican Academy of Pediatrics. He joined children. ically governing the center. the faculty of the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Colorado Denver Newest MACC Board Member School of Medicine and The Children’s Vicki Perlmutter Dansky is a third-generaHospital in 1978. He was Head of the Section Denver native who earned her J.D. from tion of General Academic Pediatrics from Hastings College of the Law at UC San 1980 to 1990 and again from 1998. Steve has Francisco. A member of the Colorado and held many prestigious positions in the California Bars and a practicing lawyer for

Board Members

Purim & Passover This year Purim falls on March 10 and Passover begins at sundown on April 8. Here’s everything you need to know about how the JCC plans to observe these two holidays so you don’t miss a thing! Passport to Purim Co-sponsored by Shalom Family and The Jewish Experience Cost TBD Bring your family to celebrate Purim while fulfilling the four mitzvot of the holiday. Enjoy arts and crafts and hear the story of Purim brought to life by a puppet show. For more information, call (303) 316-6325.

Purim/Passover Music and Art Class Children 1—5 years and parents Thursday, March 5, 9:30–10:30 a.m. Room 205 $12/JCC child; $20/two siblings (includes supplies) Barbara Chayet introduces fabulous age-appropriate Purim and Passover songs to young children. In addition to singing, dancing and learning about the importance of both holidays, children and their parents make keepsake songbooks. This is a wonderful opportunity to enhance your celebrations in the home.

Senior Purim Luncheon Tuesday, March 10, 11:45 a.m.-1:30 p.m. $7/individual The senior department has a terrific Purim celebration planned! First, guests are treated to the Megillah (the scroll of Esther) by Cantor Zachary Kutner at 10:30 a.m. A delicious luncheon follows accompanied by live music. Guests even have a chance to win door prizes! Please RSVP to Lil at (303) 316-6359 by Monday, February 23.

Spotlight on Holidays Bringing Generations Together: ECC & Senior Purim Celebrations Purim fun starts a week early at the ECC with mask making and hammentaschen baking. The week of holiday, students and teachers parade around the entire JCC fa-

cility dressed in costume, singing and with graggers and musical instruments in hand. The parade is held twice to give all students, some of whom attend school only M/W/F or T/TH, a chance to parade. This year, look for the parade on Monday and Tuesday, March 9 and 10. On Tuesday, the parade terminus on is Phillips Social Hall where students join our JCC seniors. The program of fun continues with a play enacted by the ECC teachers. This year, ECC principal Jed Wardlaw stars as Queen Esther! Before returning to their classrooms, children fulfill one of the four holiday mitzvot (reading the Megillah, festivity and rejoicing, sending food to friends and giving gifts to the poor) by presenting seniors with mishloach manot baskets stocked with their handmade hammentaschen as well as other edible goodies such as juice.

Sunday, March 29, 10 a.m.–noon Cost TBD Make your very own matzah at the Matzah Factory, then prepare for Passover by participating in a kid-friendly model seder. This event is cosponsored by Shalom Family and The Denver Jewish Center. For more information, call (303) 316-6336.

JCC Passover Hours Wednesday, April 8 Early Closure: S&F & Tennis Centers . . . 6 p.m.

Thursday, April 9 Closed: JCC & MACC

Friday, April 10 Closed: JCC & MACC Open: S&F and Tennis Center

Tuesday, April 14

Seniors however, remain in Phillips Social Hall to enjoy a holiday luncheon (see listing above) followed by a reading of the Megillah (Book of Esther) by a local rabbi. Elka Popack, director of senior services, always encourages seniors to wear masks and funny hats to the day’s festivities.

Passover Luncheon Tuesday March 24, 11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. $7/individual It’s a tradition! Seniors are invited to celebrate Passover with their friends while enjoying a delicious meal, live music and door prizes. Please RSVP to Lil at (303) 316-6359 by Monday, March 10. Matzah Madness Children ages 3—7 and parents

Early Closure: S&F & Tennis Centers . . . 6 p.m.

Wednesday, April 15 Closed: JCC & MACC

Thursday, April 16 Open: S&F and Tennis Center

Yom Hazikaron & Yom Ha’atzmaut Two other key holidays fall in April this year. Tuesday, April 28: Yom Hazikaron, Israel Memorial Day, is a day of remembrance for people who have died due to armed conflict. Wednesday, April 29: Yom Ha’atzmaut, Israel Independence Day is a birthday party for the Israeli state which just celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2008.

Holidays

Ongoing Exhibit

Art Academy Painting & Drawing Exhibit and Sale, Cooper Balcony (running through March 19).

MARCH 1

Sunday Denver Children’s Theatre presents The Golden Goose, performances for the public through May 3, all performances at 1 p.m., $9/adult, $8/children, students & seniors. (303) 316-6360

Monday Art Academy – first week of spring session pottery & ceramics classes. (303) 316-6360

Sunday Passport to Purim, (303) 316-6325 Denver Children’s Theatre presents The Golden Goose, performances for the public through May 3, all performances at 1 p.m., $9/adult, $8/children, students & seniors. (303) 316-6360

APRIL 2

Thursday

Paul Gillis – Curiouser: A Dozen Years of Painting, Art Exhibit, Singer Gallery (on display through May 28), Opening Reception at 5:30 p.m.

Purim/Passover Music and Art Class, (303) 316-6336

Thursday

Sunday Baby Sitting, (303) 316-6315

CPR Certification with First Aid Review, (303) 316-6336

Denver Children’s Theatre presents The Golden Goose, performances for the public through May 3, all performances at 1 p.m., $9/adult, $8/children, students & seniors. (303) 316-6360

Denver Children’s Theatre presents The Golden Goose, performances for the public through May 3, all performances at 1 p.m., $9/adult, $8/children, students & seniors. (303) 316-6360 Art Academy 2009: Instructors’ Artwork presented by the Act Academy, Cooper Balcony (on display through May 17) Art Academy Block Printing class (grades 3–6) first meeting. (303) 316-6360

Saturday Saturday Night Out (SNO), (303) 316-6392

Sunday Denver Children’s Theatre presents The Golden Goose, performances for the public through May 3, all performances at 1 p.m., $9/adult, $8/children, students & seniors. (303) 316-6360

Monday Wolf Theatre Academy – first week of spring creative dramatics & dramatics performance workshop classes. (303) 316-6360

Monday Camp Shai Spring Camp I, (303) 316-6392

Calendar March—April

Sunday Kid’s Spring Soccer Clinic, (303) 316-6304

Saturday Saturday Night Out (SNO), (303) 316-6392.

Sunday Denver Children’s Theatre presents The Golden Goose, performances for the public through May 3, all performances at 1 p.m., $9/adult, $8/children, students & seniors. (303) 316-6360

Sunday

Sunday Denver Children’s Theatre presents The Golden Goose, performances for the public through May 3, all performances at 1 p.m., $9/adult, $8/children, students & seniors. (303) 316-6360

Staff Directory

JCC Hours

Robert E. Loup Jewish Community Center Camp and Youth Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (303) 316-6392 Child Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (303) 316-6301 Early Childhood Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (303) 316-6377 Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (303) 316-6354 Food Service/Catering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (303) 316-6375 Marketing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (303) 316-6353 JCC Membership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (303) 316-6302 S&F Membership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (303) 316-6308 Ranch Camp Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (303) 316-6384 Senior Dept. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (303) 316-6358 Family Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (303) 316-6336

MACC

Sports & Fitness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (303) 316-6300 Tennis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (303) 316-6380 Program Registrar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (303) 316-6307

JCC & Sports & Fitness Center Monday–Thursday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5:30 a.m.–10 p.m. Friday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5:30 a.m.–7 p.m. Saturday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–7 p.m. Sunday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 a.m.–7 p.m.

Rose & Robyn Loup Child Care Center Monday–Thursday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8:30 a.m.–8 p.m. Friday & Sunday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.

Nursery Monday–Friday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

Tennis Center Oct. 1—April 30 Sunday–Thursday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 a.m.–10:30 p.m. Friday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 a.m.–6 p.m. Saturday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–10:30 p.m.

Goldstein Indoor Pool General Hours*

Staff Directory Mizel Arts & Culture Center

Monday–Thursday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5:30 a.m.–9:30 p.m. Friday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5:30 a.m.–6:30 p.m. Saturday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–6:30 p.m. Sunday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 a.m.–6:30 p.m.

Assistant Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (303) 316-6319 Box Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (303) 316-6360 Class Registrations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (303) 316-6386 Education Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (303) 316-6319 Executive Artistic Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (303) 316-6363 Facility Rentals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (303) 316-6386 Gallery Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (303) 316-6387 MACC Marketing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (303) 316-6373 Administrative Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (303) 316-6362

*Complete pool schedules are available at the S&F information board or online at www.jccdenver.org.

MACC Hours Mizel Arts & Culture Center

Monday–Friday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 a.m.–5 p.m. MACC box office opens one hour before performances.

Singer Gallery Monday–Friday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Closed Sunday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–4 p.m.

MACC Priority Registration Sunday March 1 This is your first chance to register for MACC theatre and art summer camps. Please bring your lottery card/number to register.

JCC

There will be representatives from all other JCC camps on hand to answer your questions and process your registrations. Please call Amy at (303) 316-6383 with any questions.

Calendar March—April

Chotin Family Outdoor Pool Opens Saturday, May 9 and Closes on Monday, October 12

Tennis Center Outdoor Court Renovation With spring around the corner, it’s time think about heading outdoors for the season

Did you know that the Tennis Center outdoor courts underwent a $250,000 renovation last spring? Or that the project was funded by Colorado Tennis Management Inc. (CTM), meaning that the JCC received the outdoor court upgrade for free? It all began back in May of 2007, when the JCC signed a ten-year contract with CTM. One of contract stipulations required the company to “repair the courts to industry standard.”

stance that requires regular watering (and can be costly to maintain since treatment to contain mold is often necessary), the JCC clay courts are environment-friendly. Traditional clay courts require 250,000 gallons

Thanks to the recent renovation, outdoor tennis matches at the Tennis Center are no longer disrupted by “wild balls” bouncing off cracks.

The first step for company co-owners Sam Hitman (former JCC Tennis Center director) and Eric Rose? Reviewing all of the possibilities. As Sam explains further, “We wanted to make sure we did it right. We wanted to find an option that would outlast our ten-year contract.” Ultimately, CTM chose to refurbish two of the four original hard courts and convert the other two to clay.

of water per court per year, but the Tennis Center clay courts never need to be watered — a perfect fit for Colorado summers that The upgrade began by placing a six-inch often are accompanied by drought waterpost tension layer on the old asphalt. This use restrictions. A classic reddish color typslab of concrete has cables running through ically seen in Europe, the JCC clay courts it to promote a are the only two of crack-free surface up their kind in Colorado. to 50 years. Next, a “A classic reddish color typically seen in Euturf-like carpet was rope, the JCC clay courts are the only two of Offering two different their kind in Colorado.” laid on the courts. types of courts once Then the traditional hard courts were topped off with concrete and acrylic paint in the blue-green combination seen at the U.S. Open. For the two clay courts, a modern synthetic material manufactured in Australia called “Classic Clay” was selected. Compared to the traditional clay, which is an organic sub-

Tennis Center

the refurbishment was complete was just one more way to better serve members as well. “We can keep the clay courts open year round. Because there is no watering, we are not required to shut down in the winter. This means we can play outside year round, particularly on those beautiful 50-degree crisp tennis weather days that occur here in fall and winter,” notes Sam.

CMT co-owner Eric Rose emphasizes the body-friendly nature of the clay courts. “The beauty of the clay courts is that they are soft and easy on the body.” In addition to reducing joint impact, the soft-surfaced clay courts also provide a “slower bounce.” Translation? Players can catch up with the ball more often, elongating matches with rallies versus point-shots. As Eric continues, “The clay provides a slower game and its fun to have the variety of surfaces. It makes me feel like I’m at the French Open.” The recent upgrade also included new fences, windscreens and tennis nets. Anxious to try out the courts? Summer membership extends from May 1 to Sept. 30 and is available for $150. Members may rent the outdoor courts for $10/hour; or indoor courts at the same rate when it’s too hot to play outside. Call (303) 316-6380 today and learn how you can receive a free two-week trial membership.

Please note that the list below reflects donations made as of Dec. 15, 2008. Adult Services Ray Anzman Betsy Brachfeld Agnete Cohen David Cohen Harold Cohen Elinor Debber Bernard Diamond Howard Greinetz Irwin Horwitz Donald Kaufmann Gerald Lande Mitzi Page Bobette Robinson Michael Rudnick Martin Shore Myrtle Sidman Marlene Siegel Joan Talpers Rosalie Wagner Corporate Contributions Mizel International Cultural Fund Childcare Credit Contributions Susan Avner Bill & Angie Bass Emily Bocko R. Coran Capshaw Louis Gelfand Marian Gelfand Sandra Glick Ronald Lynn Charles Morris Mark Palmer Karen Spicola

Yiddish Concert Contributions Alan Brandt Arthur Bronstein Nancy Davis Dorothea Flax Hanna Goldberg Sylvia Goodman Rachel Greengard Sara Katsh Amy Kaufman Nate Kellman Rosalyn Kirkel Estelle Levitt Shirley Londer Neil Lott Elliott Magalnick Maggie Miller Arlene Mobell Jerry Pearl Sholom Pearlman Marty Rabinowitz Helen Rotbart Charles Selsberg Suzanne Shapiro Renee Singer Albert Sorkin Marvin Stone Nancy Weil

Shalom Baby Contributions Rose Community Foundation Michael Rudnick Teri Paul Memorial Contributions Donna Paul 2008 Annual Dinner Contributions Debra Alenikoff Jan Anderson Jacqueline Elliot Marian Gelfand Stanley Ginsberg Amanda Halstead Jeffrey Hawks Daniel Hettleman Steven Hoth Katherine Merage Michael Opatowski Pluss Poultry Rose Community Foundation WG Family Partnership Willie Shepherd

Do You Have Your Seat Yet?

The Shwayder Theatre

“Take A Seat” Campaign Continues… Name a seat for your company, yourself, a friend, or a loved one • Seats are available–priced from $500 to $2,500–to suit every philanthropic budget. • Every dollar you contribute is matched, dollar for dollar, up to $200,000 by the Mizel Family Foundations.Your donation goes twice as far!

Early Childhood Contributions Allied Jewish Federation

• Your seat purchase is eligible for the 50% Colorado Child Care Contribution Credit.

From Oy to Joy Contributions Congregation Emanuel Allied Jewish Apartments

To purchase your seat, contact Willie Recht at wrecht@jccdenver.org or call (303) 316-6361.

Ranch Camp – Alan Farber Contributions Stanley Farber Ranch Camp Capital Contributions Goldrich Family Foundation Cassandra Kirschbaum Edward Gordon Charitable Trust

Take a Seat. The show is about to begin.

Colorado Child Care Contribution Credit The Colorado Child Care Contribution Credit was established to promote childcare activities statewide. Because many donations to the JCC qualify for the Colorado Child Care Credit, you get back directly 50-percent of your donation in the form of a tax credit on your 2008 Colorado income tax return. In addition, you can still deduct your contribution on your state and federal returns. This credit is available until 2010. Estimates of Tax Savings* Cash Donation Colorado State Income Tax Credit Colorado State Income Tax Deduction @ 4.63% Federal Income Tax Deduction @ 35% After Tax Cost with Federal 35% Rate

$600 ($300) ($28) ($95) $177

$1,000 ($500) ($46) ($159) $295

$3,000 ($1,500) ($139) ($476) $885

$5,000 ($2,500) ($232) ($794) $1,475

$10,000 ($5,000) ($463) ($1,588) $2,949

$15,000 ($7,500) ($695) ($2,382) $4,424

$25,000 ($12,500) ($1,158) ($3,970) $7,373

* This is an example only. Please contact your tax advisor for more information.

Gifts

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Denver, CO Permit No. 641

Robert E. Loup Jewish Community Center 350 South Dahlia Street Denver, CO 80246

Serving businesses, business owners and high-net-worth individuals with a sophisticated menu of financial products and services. Complete solutions for your independence. CoBiz Financial companies: Colorado Business Bank Alexander Capital CoBiz Insurance CoBiz Trust Financial Designs Ltd. Green Manning & Bunch Wagner Investment COBIZĂ&#x161;NANCIAL COM Colorado Business Bank is part of CoBiz Bank Member FDIC