January 2014
THE BEAUTY OF INCLUSION
Camp JCC Counselor Matan Peltier (cover photo) Page 1
22ND ANNUAL DINNER OF CHAMPIONS A Look Back Pages 9-10
“THE LAND THAT I LOVE”
An Exhibition of Art Quilts by Jehudith (Diti) Lean Pages 14
FINDING FULFILLMENT IN HELPING OTHERS Volunteer Jill Gendleman Page 15
center
STORY
CAMP JCC COUNSELOR MATAN PELTIER
The Beauty of Inclusion
Matan Peltier (left) shares a light-hearted moment with one of the villagers of Kfar Rafael where Matan volunteered for two years as a caretaker for adults with special needs.
There’s no denying that the nationally-recognized Camp JCC inclusion program has had a profoundly positive effect on campers with special needs who have participated in the program by offering them the opportunity for a fun and fulfilling summer camp experience alongside their typicallydeveloping siblings and friends. What may not be so widely acknowledged is the way in which the program affects typical campers and counselors who learn that acceptance and inclusion should be the norm, not the exception. As a result, Camp JCC changes attitudes toward inclusion that extend far beyond the walls of our building. In this article, Matan Peltier reflects on his experience as a Camp JCC inclusion counselor, and how it affected his life. The JCCGW has always been part of 21-year-old Matan Peltier’s life. His mother [Rivka Degani, Hebrew Language Program Director] has been working here since before he was born. Growing up, Matan participated in holiday celebrations and sport activities at the Center.
by Andrea Kronzek
When he was 16, Matan applied to Camp JCC and was accepted as a counselor in Kochavim, the program for teens and young adults with disabilities. He was assigned to work 1:1 with a teenage boy named Ryan who had a brain injury and used a wheelchair. Matan may not have suspected at the time how that experience would change the course of his life.
The meaningful time that Matan spent as an inclusion counselor led to his decision to spend the past two years volunteering in Israel in Kfar Rafael (please see box), where he was a caretaker for four adult men with special needs.
This winter, Matan will attend Concordia University in Montreal in the therapeutic recreation program. He will major in social work, Eva Cowen, Kochavim unit head, says that after specializing in special needs. maybe a day or two of hesitation, Matan and Ryan struck up an incredible friendship. “Matan “My choice of studies was determined thanks to didn’t want to miss a minute of work because the Camp JCC inclusion program, which helped he was concerned that someone else might not me find my passion, led me to intensive work understand Ryan as well,” Eva relates. “There in Kfar Rafael and helped me decide to change was a visible transformation in Matan during my major from business administration to social that summer and he returned the next summer as work.” Ryan’s counselor again. It was such a wonderful thing to watch Matan realize how important Camp JCC is an amazing program, according to he was to Ryan and how seriously he took the Matan. “It not only gives the gift of a great camp experience to children with special needs, but it responsibility that came along with that.” also allows typical campers and counselors to Matan describes how he discovered the beauty learn about people with disabilities and teaches and challenges of working with youth with special them to treat people with disabilities respectfully needs. “I found a hidden side of myself. I found and compassionately.” that I understand people with special needs, I empathize with them, I share their feelings and I To learn more about the Camp JCC Special Needs and Inclusion Program, please log on to jccgw.org. love to work with them.” “One of the most important things I learned at Camp JCC is that every individual is a rich human being full of emotions and dreams, and is to be respected. I learned to understand individuals who have difficulty expressing themselves verbally. I learned to be patient and compassionate.” A unique aspect of Camp JCC that Matan appreciates is that campers with special needs participate in activities alongside their typicallydeveloping peers and siblings. “I am not sure that opportunities like this would have been offered to them in any other place.”
Kfar Rafael is a remedial community located in southern Israel where adults with special needs live together with foster families and their children, as well as with young volunteers from both Israel and abroad. The community is centered on the care for the well-being and development of the residents, and aims to serve their complex and changing needs while allowing each individual to integrate in a rich and full social environment. For more information, visit krafael.co.il.
CENTER SCENE EDITORIAL STAFF Adrienne Fierro Chief Communications Officer Mauricio Garcia Production Artist/Design Andrea Kronzek Editor Molly Rosenberg Communications & Marketing Associate
1
Center Scene, the magazine of the Jewish Community Center of Greater Washington, is issued monthly from September through June.
receives support from the United Way and Combined Federal Campaigns. For advertising information, contact Rebecca Salzman at 301.348.3754 or rsalzman@jccgw.org.
The Center is a member of the Jewish Community Centers Association of North America, a beneficiary agency of The Jewish Center Scene assumes no responsibility for the kashrut status of products advertised. Federation of Greater Washington, and
6125 Montrose Road • Rockville, MD 20852 • jccgw.org • 301.881.0100
center
LEADERSHIP
OFFICERS Bradley C. Stillman, President
Robyn Judelsohn, Vice President for Administration/Treasurer Heidi Hookman Brodsky, Vice President for Development
Mindy Berger, Vice President for Member Services Arthur Polott, Vice President for Programming Neil Gurvitch, Vice President and General Counsel Felicia K. Gottdenker, Secretary Andrew Chod, Assistant Secretary Brian Pearlstein, Assistant Treasurer Monique Buckles, Ombudsperson EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Robert G. Epstein Matthew Weinberg Michael E. Winer BOARD OF DIRECTORS Gilly Arie Helen Rubin Brent Berger, MD Andrew Sachs Robert I. Black Tracy Bloom Schwartz Nathan Bortnick Reed Sexter Andrew Bridge Darryl Shrock Brian Gaines Andrew P. Shulman The Honorable David Waghelstein Douglas F. Gansler The Honorable Jeff Amy Guberman Waldstreicher Holli Beckerman Jaffe Samantha Wasserman Randi K. Meyrowitz Sharon Zissman Adam Polsky COUNCIL OF ADVISORS Lawrence Mann Daniel H. Abramowitz Alan Meltzer David S. Bender Pamela Nadell, Ph.D. Stuart Bindeman Robert Phillips Dean Eisen Howard Ross Bernard Forseter Julie Silver Greg Friedman Kathy Sklar Eric Kassoff Marc Solomon Michael Kay Robin Taub Mark Lerner Susan Zuckerman Jeffrey Linowes PAST PRESIDENTS Morris Cafritz z”l Harry M. Linowes Marcella E. Cohen Steven D. Lustig Scott M. Cohen Philip N. Margolius The Honorable Col. Benjamin Ourisman z”l Stuart E. Eizenstat Sydney M. Polakoff Barry P. Forman Richard B. Reff, M.D. Rosalie B. Gerber z”l Leo Schlossberg z”l Michael S. Gildenhorn Burnett Siman z”l Col. Julius Goldstein z”l Beth C. Sloan Simon Hirshman z”l Charles E. Smith z”l Lesley Israel Andrew M. Stern Rosalyn Levy Jonas John D. VerStandig Edward H. Kaplan Bernard M. Weisz z”l Joel S. Kaufman Bernard S. White z”l z”l Harry King Morton H. Wilner z”l Fred Kogod z”l Donald E. Wolpe Robert P. Kogod z”l Samuel Lehrman of blessed memory EXECUTIVE TEAM Michael Feinstein, Chief Executive Officer Ruth E. Carski, Chief Financial Officer Tracey E. Dorfmann, Chief Program Officer Adrienne Fierro, Chief Communications Officer Amy I. Gantz, Chief Operating Officer Tasha Museles, Chief Development Officer
january 2014
A Complaint is an Opportunity Message from Michael
I don’t believe in waiting for people to complain. One comment that really struck home for me was, Leading both business and nonprofit organizations for “When an organization covers so many programs, it’s almost three decades has taught me that you can lose hard to excel on any specific one.” We do receive very a lot of customers by waiting for feedback. My staff positive feedback about many of our programs, but are will attest to my constant questioning we trying to do too much with too about why we do things a certain way few resources? And, if a program is and how we can improve the quality “good” but not “excellent” should we of our facilities and programs. They stop offering it even if participants know the value I place on regularly feel that they are benefiting? As and proactively asking for feedback. another respondent points out, As a result, we provide opportunities “There seems to be activities for for our participants to share their young families and senior citizens, suggestions and complaints through [but] something is missing for adults the “Dear Michael” cards at the front in the middle who work during the desk, the contact form on our website day.” I know that there are gaps in and the feedback surveys that we our program offerings, but wonder distribute following our programs. how we can take on more with the Michael Feinstein, CEO What’s good about a complaint? It resources we have. means that someone cares enough to want to see a change. I would rather have the opportunity to Sometimes complaints really represent an unspoken address a specific complaint than wonder why a request. A number of comments expressed discontent member left. Our long-term success depends on about the level of our membership fees. It’s clear customer satisfaction and loyalty which will come that we have to do a better job of communicating from providing outstanding customer service and that we offer needs-based financial assistance for continually improving our programs. We can only membership. There were many other suggestions accomplish that if we know where we are hitting the related to expanding hours of operation, offering more mark and where we are falling short. programs, communicating information, and meeting a wider range of Jewish observance levels. My staff For the sixth year in a row, last fall we emailed surveys will review, evaluate and prioritize these suggestions to everyone with a connection to the Center. We sought and we will communicate the changes that we can feedback from 15,000 members and participants and accommodate. received 800 responses, representing a 5% response rate. We asked participants a range of questions about There were many positives in the survey results, as well. membership, program participation, and the impact I was particularly pleased to hear from one preschool that the Center has on their lives. In the spring, we parent that, “It is a very welcoming atmosphere. I am will receive a complete report that will allow us to not Jewish – my husband is – and our daughter has evaluate our own trends over the last six years, as well just begun attending the preschool. I like that we all as how we compare to JCCs of similar size around the feel comfortable and welcome at the JCC and that our country. The survey also asks a number of open-ended daughter can learn about community and Judaism in a questions about what participants like best and least safe environment.” Another member commented that, about their experience, and what improvements they “It’s not just a gym or a swimming pool; it’s truly a would like to see. We received over 1,700 comments community center with many opportunities to meet and I have read every one. community members and participate in programs of a wide variety.” Both of these comments speak to the As you might expect, on any given topic there were welcoming and inclusive environment that we strive diametrically opposite responses – the facility is great, to create. the facility is in need of updating; we communicate too much, we communicate too little; our prices I will share more feedback and our plans in the coming represent good value, our prices are too high; we are months. If you missed your opportunity to participate too Jewishly observant, we are not observant enough. in the survey and would like to let me know your Each of us has a unique expectation which determines thoughts about your experience at the Center and our experience and perception. Sometimes the how you think we can improve, please email me at comments are heart-warming and sometimes they are mfeinstein@jccgw.org. painful. While the sample is relatively small, there are many comments and suggestions that are meaningful and important if we are going to improve how we meet our members’ and the community’s needs. Photo by Shmulik Almany
2
center
BEHIND THE SCENES
Message from Brad Stillman Aren’t we lucky! Those of us in the Jewish community get two opportunities a year to stop (or at least slow down) and take stock of our lives, tinker with things or hit the reset button. We have the Jewish New Year in the fall and the secular New Year that has just passed. For those of you who use the gym like I do, there is no mistaking that January has come. It is not just the hats and coats and snow-melt pellets. It is the discussions of resolutions. It is natural at this time of year for many to think in terms of making resolutions for the year ahead. The buzz of excitement in the JCCGW Fitness Center is a testament to one of the most popular resolutions every year. You should come by, talk with the fitness staff and work a little exercise into your routine this winter. I promise you will be happy you did. You may even run into your friends and family while you are there. It is clear that hitting the gym is a popular resolution to benefit
our own personal health. I suggest that we all try to make at least two resolutions: one that is inward looking for your personal well-being, and one that is outward looking for the benefit of the community. You may find that once you have immersed yourself in both resolutions, it will be difficult to distinguish which is for you and which is for the greater community. This can and should be the definition of a win/win situation. I encourage you to look to your JCC as a mechanism whereby you can fulfill these goals. It is not just individuals who engage in this exercise (no pun intended!). Every company and non-profit organization does this as well. At the JCCGW, we have had the 100th birthday to help focus us on the future of this wonderful organization. If you have spent any time at all in the Center or at JCCGW programs you will have already started to see the early fruits of our labors, and there is much, much more to come. I think the
founders of the original Young Men’s Hebrew Association in downtown Washington, DC would be proud of the resolutions our community made and kept that have led us to Brad Stillman, JCCGW President become the outstanding and indispensable community organization we are today, notwithstanding the profound changes our community has experienced in the 100 years since they resolved to create this Center. In closing, I wanted to thank all of you who answered the call at the end of 2013 to support the critically important work of our Jewish Community Center. I know that there are wonderful things in store for the JCCGW and the community we serve in 2014, and I urge you to play an active part in all of the opportunities that await us.
AN INTERVIEW WITH TRACEY DORFMANN, JCCGW CHIEF PROGRAM OFFICER
Making a Difference Every Day
Chief Program Officer Tracey Dorfmann says that the JCCGW keeps her intellectually, physically and spiritually challenged. This is a photo of Tracey doing a classical yoga headstand at sunrise on the Atlantic coast.
What is your history with the JCCGW? I began working at the JCCGW in 2001 as a Camp JCC one-on-one inclusion counselor. After that summer, I was hired as director of interfaith outreach and co-director of the camp inclusion program. Since that time I have advanced through several positions and am currently the chief program officer (CPO). Please tell us a little about your background and family. I was born and raised in DC proper. I hold degrees in painting and French. I spent the early part of my career in higher education administration. Immediately before working here I had a stint in the “for profit” sector, where I learned that I am far better suited for the nonprofit world. What I do each day must matter, have a deep meaning, and make a difference in the world. My wonderful and talented daughter Hannah is a freshman at the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, NY.
3
Hannah truly grew up at the JCCGW, attending What is an aspect of the JCCGW that is the after-school program and summer camp since particularly meaningful to you? she was in 1st grade. The word that comes to mind is connection. Whether it is in our bricks and mortar building, What are your duties as chief program at an off-site gathering or in the virtual world of officer? electronic communications, we are a connecter. I provide leadership and management for a portfolio We connect people to each other and to Jewish of JCCGW programs and core businesses. As part identity and culture, and hopefully help individuals of the senior leadership team, I have the pleasure and families find a greater meaning in their lives of working closely with the board, donors, staff, by sharing moments together. members, guests and volunteers. I strive to help create and preserve a Jewish environment where What do you enjoy in your spare time? individuals and families can come together to feel I practice yoga and stay physically fit. I enjoy part of a greater whole. going to art museums and galleries, listening to music, reading, and spending time with family and Why are you passionate about the Center? friends. We make a difference in people’s lives every day. When I am feeling bogged down, I stroll the halls Is there anything else you’d like readers to and look into the faces of the seniors coming back know? from a program, and I see their eyes sparkle. I I encourage every member to take advantage of listen to the giggles of preschoolers. My heart our Fitness Center. A year and a half ago, I could swells seeing children with disabilities laughing barely make it up a flight of steps. I concentrated and playing alongside their typically-developing on my yoga practice and eating healthfully, and peers. My spirits are raised by hearing a concert I signed up for personal training and exercise or seeing a film in the Kreeger Auditorium, classes here. My personal trainer, Sandy Roberts, listening to an author presentation, or viewing a helped me prepare for a 5K run and encouraged moving piece of artwork in our gallery. And there me to make working out a regular part on my life. is nothing better than sharing a daily greeting or The JCCGW keeps me intellectually, physically laugh with members and participants. This is the and spiritually challenged. There is no place else fabric of which life is made. that I would rather be!
6125 Montrose Road • Rockville, MD 20852 • jccgw.org • 301.881.0100
center
Camp, Youth, Tweens & Teens
…here we come to save the day!
SUMMER 2014…
Session 1 l June 23-July 3 (no camp July 4) Session 2 l July 7-July 18 Session 3 l July 21-August 8
january 2014
SuperHero Staff Auditions Now in Progress
Mark your calendars now for 7 weeks of fun and adventure at Camp JCC – June 23-August 8, 2014! Morning and afternoon extended day and bus transportation are available for an additional fee. Teachers, college students, teens, moms and dads: Are you enthusiastic, passionate, creative, dependable, active and full of ruach (spirit)? Spend an amazing summer at Camp JCC as a unit head, specialist, counselor, swim instructor or nurse! This is an 8-week commitment from June 16-August 8. Apply online at jccgw.org/camp. For more information, contact campjcc@jccgw.org.
Applications are now open to all. Apply online at jccgw.org/camp. For program details, including prices, or for additional information, check jccgw.org/camp or contact the Camp Office at campjcc@jccgw.org.
SAVE THE DATE
JCCGW Gala Wednesday, March 19 | 6:30 p.m. Please plan to join us for a special evening as Norma Lee and Morton Funger are presented with the Benjamin Ourisman Memorial Award for Civic Achievement. For details, check the February issue of Center Scene, visit jccgw. org, or contact Jodi Shulimson at jsulimson@jccgw.org or 301.348. 3769.
Celebrate
your Child’s Bir thday at the JCC of Greater Washington
Saturdays & Sundays • 10. a.m., 12 p.m., 2 p.m. & 4 p.m JCCGW birthday parties are the perfect way to celebrate your child’s special day! For details, contact Amy Fauber 301.348.3889 or jccgwbirthdays@jccgw.org
jccgw.org/bir thday 4
center
Children & Families
JCCGW PRESCHOOL TEACHER SHARON GOLDRICH
Creating an Environment that Nurtures and Challenges Children
JCCGW Preschool teacher Sharon Goldrich with some of her young charges.
One of the many reasons that the JCCGW Preschool is so special and unique is our highly-qualified, passionate and dedicated staff of early childhood educators. In this profile, we learn a little about Sharon Goldrich, who teaches 4-5-year-olds. Why did you choose early childhood education as a career? I have been working with young children for 20 years. My first formal experience in the field of education was during my internship at The Covenant Foundation (an organization devoted to supporting Jewish educational programming) in New York City. At the time, I was studying for my undergraduate degree
and had recently returned from a semester abroad at Tel Aviv University. While working at The Covenant Foundation, I was exposed to the vast world of education. Being surrounded by educators influenced my decision to earn a Master’s in early childhood and elementary education. Please describe some of the teaching methods you use in the classroom. I find it most effective to use real-life information, events, experiences and processes as the basis for learning. As an educator, I need to ensure that the connection between school learning and life is obvious and necessary. Bringing the world of nature, current events, culture, arts and STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) into the classroom via group read aloud, journaling, experiments, research, groups discussions, calculating, games and reflection is my primary objective. With all the preschool programs in the area, why do you choose to teach at the JCCGW? There are two major reasons I choose to teach at the JCCGW. First, my background and educational philosophies align with the
school’s. I strongly believe in experiential learning and the open expression of children. It is clear to me that children learn best from first-hand experiences. Children’s motivation to pursue learning is born from an environment and support system that not only embrace but challenge them – we strive to create that atmosphere here. Second, I relish serving the greater community. I have a strong tikkun olam (repairing the world) bug within me. I hope to pass that value to future generations. What better place to pay it forward than a community center? Next year you will be teaching transitional kindergarten at the JCCGW. What do you think is the most important skill that children need before they move on to elementary school? The children will no doubt learn the ABCs and 123s. Modern research reveals that children’s minds need cognitive, emotional, social and physical experiences to develop and succeed. Combined, the nurturing of those areas are what contribute most to problem solving, collaboration, and creativity – the most demanded life skills.
After 25 years of serving as a natural gathering place for young families, the Bender-Dosik Parenting Center (BDPC) is undergoing a much-needed refurbishment thanks in large part to Susan Donnelly (ushiebaby.com), a well-regarded DC-metro muralist who has developed and is implementing the design plans free of charge, and to a generous grant from the Elaine Gorbach Levine Charitable Foundation. Through a series of Sunday workshops, the parent community at large is invited to participate in this exciting project, which is expected to be completed in March. For more information, please contact Lauren Dworkin at 301.348.3837 or ldworkin@jccgw.org. BDPC Beautification Workshops Thursday, January 30 | 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturday, February 8 | 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday, February 19 | 6:30-9 p.m.
5
BENDER-DOSIK PARENTING CENTER JANUARY EVENTS
Character Brunch
Sunday, January 12 | 10-11:30 a.m. Share a schmear with your favorite storybook characters! The fee is $5 for children and $8 for adults, with a family maximum of $20.
Infant CPR and Babyproofing Workshop
Tuesday, January 14 | 6-9 p.m. Every parent and caregiver should know how and when to administer CPR. In this class you will become Red Cross certified in CPR for infants from birth to one year. You will also learn techniques for babyproofing your home. The fee for this class, which is recommended for expectant parents or parents with babies up to one year, is $45 for members or $55 for the general public. For details, contact Lauren Dworkin at 301.348.3837 or ldworkin@jccgw.org. Register at jccgw.org/parenting.
6125 Montrose Road • Rockville, MD 20852 • jccgw.org • 301.881.0100
Photo by Marc Levine
Bender-Dosik Parenting Center Updates
january 2014
Shake Up Your Day Off with Milkshake
Helping Hands Sunday, February 9 9:30 a.m.- 12 p.m.
Monday, January 20 | 10:30 a.m.
(Check-in begins at 9 a.m.) Join us for an arts-inspired journey that will focus on the importance of doing acts of kindness through participation in thematic activities including art, music, cooking, movement and a storytelling performance. This event is ideally suited for parents with children in pre-K through first grade (age 4-6). Childcare will be provided for younger toilet-trained siblings ($10 per child).
Milkshake is a band on a mission: to create great rock music for kids. Led by singer Lisa Mathews and guitarist Mikel Gehl, whose songs for grown-ups have been featured in movies and prime-time television, and whose indie rock group Love Riot garnered critical praise during its 10-year run, Milkshake has won over preschoolers without compromising songcraft, stagecraft or their authentic rock & roll spirit.
The fee for this special performance is $10 per child in advance or $12 per child at the door. Admission is free for accompanying adults. For details, visit jccgw.org/mikshake or contact Hadas Tailer at 301.348.3839 or htailer@jccgw.org.
The fee is $25 per family. Pre-registration is required by January 20; space is limited. To register, visit jccgw.org. For more information, contact Tracey Dorfmann at 301.348.3712 or tdorfmann@jccgw.org. Cosponsored by the JCCGW, Arts Alive (CJEA) and PJ Library
Preschool at the JCC of Greater Washington Quality Staff • Inspired Curriculum • Active Learning
JCCGW PRESCHOOL ENROLLMENT NOW OPEN! January 2 | Enrollment opens for returning students January 13 | Enrollment opens for JCCGW members January 20 | Enrollment opens for the general public
Our Teachers Make the Difference Our son’s teachers created a warm, nurturing, and creative environment where he has flourished. Every day he has a new story about the ‘best’ day.
• Preschool for children ages 24 months – 5 years • Half and full-day options, 7:30 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. • Conveniently located in Rockville, Maryland
Take a closer look at our Open House on January 28. RSVP to preschool@jccgw.org
301.348.3839 | jccgw.org | preschool@jccgw.org 6
center
HEALTH & FITNESS
Get In the Game! For Jewish athletes age 13-16, the JCC Maccabi Games are a week-long Olympic-style event held in different locations throughout the United States and Canada every summer. Although athletic competition is the focus of the event, the Games were designed to promote community service involvement, sportsmanship and religious pride. The JCCGW will be represented this summer at the Games in Cherry Hill, New Jersey (August 10-15) and Detroit, Michigan (August 17-22). Sports/specialties include girls basketball, boys basketball, girls soccer, boys soccer, dance, tennis, track & field, inline hockey, swimming, baseball and ArtsFest. For more information, visit jccgw.org, send an e-mail to games@jccgw.org, or contact Sarah Catanzaro at 301.348.3892 or scatanzaro@ jccgw.org.
2014 Mid-Atlantic Junior Games
Sunday, May 4
Hosted by the JCC in Baltimore The Mid-Atlantic Junior Games offer a one-day experience modeled after the JCC Maccabi Games. The Games draw participants from Maryland, DC, Virginia, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware and New York for a day of spirited competition in various sports. Athletes must be Jewish and between the ages of 10-12 as of May 1, 2014 to participate in the Mid-Atlantic Junior Games. Sports include boys baseball, boys basketball, girls basketball, boys soccer, girls soccer, swimming and tennis. For more information, visit jccgw. org, send an e-mail to games@jccgw. org, or contact Caroline Cardullo at 301.348.3890 or scatanzaro@jccgw.org.
7
6125 Montrose Road • Rockville, MD 20852 • jccgw.org • 301.881.0100
january 2014
How Artfully Can you Dodge?
FREE Running Clinic Thursday, January 16 8:30-10:30 a.m.
Do you want to improve your running, avoid injury, or find out what may be causing those aches and pains? Rachel Miller, PT, OCS, RRCA-certified running coach, and the physical therapists at ProAction Physical Therapy will offer free individual running assessments to JCCGW members in the Health & Fitness Center. Those who are interested must sign up for a time slot by calling 301-881-2273.
Find out by registering for our exciting dodgeball tournament on Saturday, January 25 from 5 to 8 p.m. The fee is $60 for a team of 6, which covers three warm-up games, and a spot in the playoff bracket.
Runners who attend the clinic will receive an individual evaluation of their running style, as well as advice about improving speed without causing injury, footwear, and strengthening and stretching, all tailored to each runner’s individual needs.
The winners will receive great prizes! For more information, contact Billy Woodward at 301.348.3852 or wwoodward@jccgw.org. Register online at jccgw.org.
New Year, New You
$0 INITIATION
HEALTH & FITNESS at the JCC of Greater Washington
Turn Your New Year’s Resolution into Reality Discover your new “you” this New Year at the JCC of Greater Washington, Rockville’s premier health and fitness center. Join the JCCGW in January and we’ll waive your initiation fee – a savings up to $150!
3-Day Guest Pass: jccgw.org/NewYear 301.945.4836 8
Photos by Freed Photography
Dinner of Champions Co-Chairs Arthur & Anita Polott and Heather & Andrew Sachs
Bernie Weisz, Jerry Sachs, Allie Ritzenberg, Charlie Brotman, Barbara Goldberg Goldman, Maryland Lt. Gov. Anthony Brown and JCCGW CEO Michael Feinstein
Emcee Chris Gordon and Carla Perlo with Hyman M. and Phillip D. Perlo High School Athlete Award recipients Josh Fried, Madison Cannon, Bergen Kassoff, Diana Bender-Bier, Sara Bender-Bier, Marissa Cannon and Alex Witkin
Catherine Legett presenting the Irene and Abe Pollin Humanitarian Award to Jeffrey Slavin
Irene and Abe Pollin Humanitarian Award recipient Jeffrey Slavin with parents Doris and Sanford Slavin
Irene and Abe Pollin Humanitarian Award recipient Jeffrey Slavin, Barbara Bender and Rick Zitelman
Doris and Sanford Slavin The Bender Foundation, Inc. Sondraz”l and Howard Bender Julie and David Silver Nan and David Bender Barbara Bender Eileen and Richard Greenberg
Amy and Alan Meltzer Heather and Andrew Sachs Chong and Ralph Stavins Barbara Bender Anita and Arthur Polott Janyse and Bernard Weisz
Clark Construction Group, LLC Jennifer and Gary Day Greenberg Traurig and Joyce and Nelson Migdal Kerry Iris and Eric Kassoff Betty Kerns Kathy and Thomas Raffa The Seremet Family Foundation Marcia and Barry Strauss Wiley Rein Tobi and Stuart Bassin Katherine and David Bradley Jodi and Scott Cohen Comcast SportsNet Phyllis and Ralph Gittleson Goodman-Gable-Gould/ Adjusters International Jane and Robert Isaacson
Mayberg Family Foundation Molly Meegan and Abbe David Lowell Mia and Brian Pearlstein Shulman, Rogers, Gandal, Pordy & Ecker, P.A. Julie and David Silver Peggy and Sidney Silver Jennifer and Neal Simon Susan and Bradley Stillman TLK Group Helene R. Weisz and Richard Lieberman Cliff and Deborah White Family Fund Rachel Zang Cynthia and Morton Zetlin Cindy and Richard Zitelman Alston and Bird LLP Yvonne and Jeffrey Distenfeld Janice and Brian Feldman Arlen and Brian Gaines Faith Goldstein Mark Goldstein
Rae Grad Adam Hanin Stuart Kurlander Barbara Pollock Joanna and Reed Sexter Shapiro, Lifschitz & Schram Tina Small and Albert Small, Jr. Roslyn and Paul Weinstein
Rebecca and Nathan Bortnick Megan Bowen Debbie Vodenos and Samuel Boxerman Moses Boyd Tina and Andrew Bridge Fay-Ann and Jonathan Brodie Carol and Robert Burman Nancy Malloy and Bruce Bushwick Lindsey Buss Linda and Jimmy Cafritz Abramson Family Foundation Joseph Camarda Inc. Jessica and David Chambers Alan Adamson Beth Zeiter-Chan and Leighton Rochelle Alpert Chan Anonymous Reid Cherner Michael Aquilino Bonnie and Robert Chernikoff Lisa and David Arber David Cindoe Bill Askinazi Richard Cohen Brooke and Adam August Marcy and Neil Cohen Ellen and Lon Babby Jeremy Cohen Melanie and David Bachrach Charles Cohler Carol and Richard Barron Ilene Gordon and Marc Bassin Congregation Beth El of Montgomery County Risa Bender and Benjamin Congressional Bank Klubes Debra Corwin Brent and Carolyn Berger Coughlin Inc. Mindy and Louis Berger Alison Dorsky and Gary Tammy and Eugene Berman Robinson Sue and Charles Berner Alison Richards and Ron Lawrence Bier Dreben Lesley and Bert Bisgyer Emily Dubick Holly and Robert Bloom Tracy Bloom Schwartz and Alan Nancy Dunham Mark Ein Schwartz Barbara and Ronald Blumenthal Patricia and Jonathan England Karen and Robert Epstein Beth and Daryle Bobb Timothy Evankovich Sandra and Stanley Bobb Talia and Darren Farber Neal Bobys
Carol and Gary Berman The Clark Charitable Foundation 9 6125 Montrose Road • Rockville, MD 20852 • jccgw.org • 301.881.0100
Alvin Feit Marla and Marc Feldman Karen Feuerstein Elana Fine Annette and Bernard Forseter Jeff Fox Stephanie and Kenny Fried Mark Futrovsky Graeme Gabriel Amy Gantz Marla and Steve Garchik Ronald Garfinkle Amy and Eric Gates Janeen and Frank Gelbart Joy and Marc Gerber Zachary Giegel Catherine and Michael Gildenhorn Margie and Ronald Glancz Fara and Hunter Gold Shirin and Jeff Goldberg Debra Goldberg Diane Goldblatt Deborah Goldseker and Rich Harris Margie and P.G. Gottfried Donna Gramm Mario Grande Leslie and Arthur Greenberg Robert Greenfest Elizabeth and Louis Greenstein Joan and Alan Gross Janice and Richard Grossman Marianne and Marvin Guerra Nancy and John Harris Barbara and David Hauer Mary Ellen Hernandez Karen Herron Jane and Phil Hochberg
january 2014
THANK YOU TO ALL OF THE SPONSORS WHO SUPPORTED THE 22ND ANNUAL DINNER OF CHAMPIONS ON NOVEMBER 23, 2013! Your generous support makes it possible for the JCCGW to continue offering a variety of inclusive programs, including our nationally-recognized Camp JCC.
Penny Ganzel, Edwin Schneider, Edna Schneider and Thomas Schneider, family of Edwin Bernard Kahn who was inducted posthumously into the JCCGW Sports Hall of Fame.
JCCGW President Brad Stillman and his wife Susan Stillman
Irene and Abe Pollin Humanitarian Award recipient Jeffrey Slavin, Maryland Lt. Gov. Anthony Brown, Sports Hall of Fame inductee Mark Ein
Sports Hall of Fame inductee Julie Zetlin
Kenny Fried, Josh Fried, Hannah Yasharoff, Olivia Yasharoff and Joe Yasharoff. Josh Fried is a recipient of the Hyman M. and Phillip D. Perlo High School Athlete award. Joe Yasharoff is a Sports Hall of Fame inductee.
Sports Hall of Fame inductee Rachel Chernikoff Zang
Paul Hudson Roree and Peter Iris-Williams Lara Jankel Rosalyn Levy Jonas and Gary Jonas Kirsten and Tim Jones Kathy Juda and Jeffrey Peters Tracy and Greg Kalik Sue and Ethan Kanter Lawrence Kaplan Jeffrey A Karton Nan and Joshua Kaufman Michael Kay Karen and Robert Keats Robert Keeling Marci and Amir Kende Judy and Eli Kimel Joseph Kinslow Jerry Kirschbaum Sara and Ehud Kish Rosalie and Irvin Kolker Holly and Neil Kopit Linda and Mati Kotz Kenneth Kozloff Ellen and Stephen Kraft Vanessa Krejci Jocelyn and Danny Krifcher Karen Kuker-Kihl Debbie Snyder and Giorgio Kulp Carole and Robert Kurman Arlene and Herb Kushner Leslie and Bruce Lane Kevin Lapidus
Phyllis and Jeffrey Lavine Brian Lee Dina and Jerry Leener Mike Leener Ricky Levine Stefanie and Michael Levy Rebecca Lewis Neil Lieberman Rabbi Bruce and Amy Lustig Marcia and Harry Lyons MAardvark Ventures, LLC Jodi and Rodd Macklin Alexis and Scott Magids Caryn and Mitchel Malkus Bard Malovany Arthur Mandell Solomon Margolis Anna Masica Lynette and Kevin McCollum Laurel Barron and Robert Mendelsohn Harvey Metro Randi and Marty Meyrowitz Amy and Mark Miller Stephen Millstein Gena and Brian Mitchell Sheldon Monsein Tasha and Scott Museles Ali and Mike Nadel Gayle and Andrew Nadler Tia Nearmyer Sara and Stephen Niles Suzanne Nixon
Jennifer Noparstak and Jonah Geller Judy and Evan Novenstein Jennifer and Joshua Odintz The Olender Foundation Shira Oler Liz and Aaron Oser Elissa and William Oshinsky Bernice and Roger Packer James Papirmeister and Sherry Dauerman Gene Park Mary Parrish Amy and Bruce Pascal Mrs. Carla Perlo Nicholas Perrins Kathy Juda and Jeffrey Peters Barbara and Robert Phillips Helen Calvin and Albert Pollin Arlene and Andy Pollin Toni Pollin Meredith and Adam Polsky Irma Poretsky Potomac Physician Associates Powerride Motorsports Inc. Edith Querido Lillian & Robert Philipson Lauren and Samuel Racoosin Len Rann Maura and Robert Reiver Jeff Renzulli Stacy Revzan Albert Ritzenberg Sandy and Kenneth Roberts
Bruce Robertson Don Rogers Terry and Howard Ross Betsy Roth and Howard Moss Robert Rubenstein George Sachs Ian Sachs Sandra and Steven Salant Dom Salvemini Andrew Schiff Manny Schiffres Edna Schneider Deborah Schneider Rebecca Schulte Raymond Schupp Carol Schwartz Charles Segerman Susan Brett and Robert Shesser Marlene and Norman Shusterman Gary Siegel Lisa Silver Joseph A. Silverman Skye Associates Judy and Jayson Slotnik Elaine Snider Debbie Snyder and Giorgio Kulp Hazel and George Solomon Michael Solomon Nancy Chasen and Donald Spero David Stearman
Heather Strauss Elaine Tendler The Bernstein Companies Cara and Marc Tommer Harriet Tritell Lori and Leslie Ulanow Brad Lang and Linda Ulrich Jeremy Verba Mac VerStandig Simon Wagman Paulette and Larry Walker Irene and Bill Wallert Julie and Steven Weinberg Robin and Matthew Weinberg Rabbi Stuart and Symcha Weinblatt Bunnye and Paul Weinstein Lori Weinstein Marcie and Scott Wertlieb Ronald West Rochelle and Bruce Wiener Robin and Scott Witkin Jeffrey Wolfson Nicholas Woodfield Nancy and Joseph Yasharoff Mona Zeiberg Sharon and Jeremy Zissman Susan and Alan Zuckerman
Raffle Donors Neal Bobys Betsy and Louis Greenstein Amy Guberman Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Omni Hotels and Resorts Mark and Eva Scheer Shapiro, Lifschitz & Schram, P.C Walt Disney World Washington Kastles The Washington Nationals The Washington Redskins The Wine Harvest Vendors Ad Solution, Inc DMB Pictures Doyle Printing Freed Photography Garry Rosenthal, Gary Rosenthal Collection Precon Events Signature Catering Sunflower Bakery Wine Harvest Program Participants Chris Gordon, NBC4 JewkVox Catherine Leggett Carla Perlo Rabbi Stuart Weinblatt Marla Rishty, Sign of the Times
The list of sponsors who contributed $100 and above is current as of December 17, 2013. Every effort has been made to accurately list each donor who has generously supported the Center. Please contact the JCCGW Development Department at 301.348.3815 with any updates or corrections.
10
center
JEWISH FAMILY LIVING & LEARNING
A Winter Night in the IDF
Sunday, December 15 • 7:30 p.m.
Amit Levinson on a rainy day at the base.
In this article, JCCGW shaliach (Israeli emissary) gives us a glimpse of life as a soldier in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). 11 p.m. I fall asleep. 1:45 a.m. “Amit…Amit… You need to wake up. It’s your turn to guard now,” a
soldier whispers. I open my eyes slowly and I can hear the wind blowing loudly. “I’ll be right down,” I say. I try to open my sleeping bag but it’s freezing outside. I never knew how cold it gets up north until my army service. I take a deep breath, stretch my legs and quickly get out of my sleeping bag and put on tights, pants, undershirt, army shirt, fleece and a coat. For someone who lives in D.C, this might sound like a typical winter day. For someone like me, who lives in a climate somewhat like the Florida climate, it was insane! 2 a.m. I’m fully dressed for my hour-long shift and I walk down from the tank (we sleep on the tank, sometimes inside). I tell the other soldier he can go back to sleep. I go to the main tent where we have hot tea. I pour some into my bottle, take a sip and swallow. I feel the bottle again and it’s already cold, the tea is cold. So much for that. I walk around the tanks. Everyone is sleeping, and some are snoring. Twelve tanks, all in
a line, in the middle of nowhere, trees and sand all around. I take a moment to breathe in and enjoy this scene. 2:22 a.m. I look at my watch. It’s scary to look at it; you don’t really want to know what time is it, only how long you have left. Bummer, 38 minutes to go! Come on watch, hurry up! I pass the time by patrolling. 2:45 a.m. “Roi… Roi… it’s your turn to guard now.” I hear him move around a bit and mumble something. I try again and he wakes up. “I’ll be down shortly,” he says. I wait for him to come down. We exchange a few words about how it’s going and I go back to my sleeping bag. Quickly I undress and jump inside. I get warmed up in two minutes and I lie there, just thinking about poor Roi who needs to guard for the next hour. I’m so lucky to have finished, I don’t think I’ll ever get out of this sleeping bag! 5:30 a.m. A loud shout: “Good morning, everyone! Let’s get ready.” And the day begins.
The Center Shone Brightly at Chanukah Like a dreidel, the JCCGW was spinning with activity as Chanukah was celebrated at the Center last month. From families with young children to active senior adults, a fun time was had by all. We thank everyone who participated for being a part of our wonderful community!
Hector Sabban displays the exquisite menorah that he and his wife Rachel made and donated to the JCCGW in honor of the Center’s 100th birthday.
Dozens of families attended our “Chanukah Happening” on December 4. The evening featured a delicious pizza dinner catered by Sienna’s, candlelighting and Chanukah songs led by the Tzofim (Israeli Scouts), and fun games and activities for kids of all ages!
11 6125 Montrose Road • Rockville, MD 20852 • jccgw.org • 301.881.0100
Our senior adults enjoyed a stimulating lecture, delicious lunch and lively musical entertainment at a Chanukah celebration on December 5.
center
ARTS & CULTURE
january 2014
ReelAbilities: Disabilities Film Festival
“The Importance of Tying Your Own Shoes” Sunday, February 9 | 5 p.m. The film “The Importance of Tying Your Own Shoes” will be shown at the JCCGW on February 9 as part of the 3rd Annual “Reelabilities: Greater DC Disabilities Film Festival” which takes place February 6-13. “The Importance of Tying Your Own Shoes” is a Swedish film (shown with English subtitles) by Lena Koppel. When Alex gets a job as the leader of a local theater group for people with disabilities, his outlook on life begins to change. Through the theater group’s work, Alex comes to appreciate that every person has talents that can grow if and artistic expressions of people with given the opportunity and support. different disabilities. Initiated in New York in 2007, the festival presents “ReelAbilities: Disabilities Film Festival” award-winning films by and about is the largest festival in the country people with disabilities in multiple dedicated to promoting awareness locations throughout each hosting city. and appreciation of the lives, stories Post-screening discussions and other
engaging programs bring together the community to explore, discuss, embrace and celebrate the diversity of our shared human experience. For tickets and other information, please visit reelabilities.org/greaterdc.
JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL
Focus on Film The JCCGW has joined forces with the Washington DC JCC’s 24th Washington Jewish Film Festival, which will be held February 27 through March 9. Ten films will be shown in the JCCGW Kreeger Auditorium, along with more than 50 films at other area venues. Visit dcjcc.org, or contact Tracey Dorfmann at 301.348.3712 or tdorfmann@jccgw.org
CONNECT with thousands of potential clients, patients, neighbors, customers and friends. Contact Rebecca Salzman today at 301.348.3754 or rsalzman@ jccgw.org for information on advertising in Center Scene. 12
center
ARTS & CULTURE
UNITED STATES AIR FORCE BAND CHAMBER MUSIC PLAYERS CONCERT SERIES
Men’s Chorus
Tuesday, January 21 | 7 p.m. | FREE
The Men’s Chorus comprises the male voices of the well-known and well-loved Singing Sargeants. Originally an all-male chorus formed in 1945, the Singing Sargeants became a mixed choral group in 1973. The Men’s Chorus performs a variety of music, from classical to patriotic. This concert is free; RSVP to Janet Getz at 301.348.3779 or jgetz@jccgw.org.
BREAKFAST, LECTURE & BOOK SIGNING
Jonathan Schanzer: “State of Failure” Sunday, January 26 | 10 a.m.
A renowned expert on the IsraeliPalestinian conflict, Jonathan Schanzer contends that focus on Israel as the sole source of roadblock to an independent Palestinian state is far too simplistic. With unparalleled access to key players in the conflict, Schanzer argues that the political dysfunction of the Palestinian Authority is the true threat to Palestinian independence.
Fatah. He previously worked at the U.S. Department of the Treasury, the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, the Jewish Policy Center and the Middle East Forum.
The fee is $15 for members and $20 for the general public. A continental breakfast is included. For tickets, please visit jccgw. org/literary. For more information, contact Jonathan Schanzer is vice president for Debby Goldberg at 301.348.3816 or research at the Foundation for Defense of dgoldberg@jccgw.org. Democracies and the author of Hamas vs.
SPECIAL PREVIEW CONCERT
Pianist Brian Ganz
Saturday, February 8 | 8 p.m. | FREE Brilliant pianist Brian Ganz continues his “Extreme Chopin” quest to perform all of Frédéric Chopin’s works. Come hear Mr. Ganz in a preview mini-concert at the JCCGW as he presents a sampling of pieces to be performed at his upcoming recital at the Music Center at Strathmore. This concert is free; RSVP to Janet Getz at 301.348.3779 or jgetz@jccgw.org.
13 6125 Montrose Road • Rockville, MD 20852 • jccgw.org • 301.881.0100
GOLDMAN ART GALLERY
Donate Fine Art to the JCCGW
Do you have art that you no longer want to keep? Please donate it to Better Treasures, our annual art sale that benefits Goldman Art Gallery shows and educational programming. We are looking for donations from fine art to folk art, Judaic or nonJudaic, modern to traditional, collectibles, paintings, limited edition prints, sculpture and fine crafts, in good condition. (The next Better Treasures will be held March 30-April 13, 2014.) Artwork is accepted year-round. If you have artwork to donate, please bring it to the JCCGW front desk any time the Center is open. For more information contact Phyllis Altman at paltman@jccgw.org or 301.348.3770. The JCC of Greater Washington is a 501(c) (3) tax-exempt non-profit organization as defined by the IRS. You will not receive any goods or services in return for this contribution, making it fully tax-deductible. The JCCGW does not have the ability to assess the value of donated artwork. Please consult a tax professional.
And the Books Went To… Caroline Bock and Merna Wagshal, winners of the raffle of signed author books at The Lessans Family Annual Book Festival held in November 2013. Happy reading!
january 2014
GOLDMAN ART GALLERY
The Land That I Love
An Exhibition of Art Quilts by Jehudith (Diti) Lean
December 29-January 26
Jehudith (Diti) Lean was born in the Jordan Valley in Israel on the shores of the Kinneret, the Sea of Galilee—a slice of heaven. The way in which the sun’s rays cast light that played on the vistas and caused colorful compositions to change with the forces of nature became part of her very being.
Open when the JCCGW is open Reception: Sunday, January 19 | 2-4 p.m. During the reception, at 2:30 p.m., Barbara Ridberg will offer a presentation on Diti’s works, including the times and conditions that inspired her. Barbara and Diti have been close friends since the early 1980s. The JCCGW gratefully acknowledges The Kaplan Family Foundation for supporting this exhibit. Israeli fibre artist Jehudith (Diti) Lean creates colorful, uplifting art quilts that depict the beautiful vistas and the flora and fauna of the land of Israel. Ms. Lean’s art quilts will be available for purchase during the exhibition. For more information please contact Phyllis Altman at 301.348.3770 or paltman@jccgw.org.
Fifteen years ago, when her family was living in the United States due to her husband’s work, Ms. Lean began to study, experiment and become proficient in different quilting techniques. Quilting is an old art form that originated in western Europe and had its renaissance in the United States among the Amish, an isolated religious community and closed culture that abstains from technological advancement. At the outset, quilting was utilitarian. Quilts were made in order to use each remnant of cloth, wool and leather and for their reuse. Sewing the pieces together was done completely by hand, and in order for the sewn pieces to be warm enough during the cold winters, a number of layers were sewn together and anchored by hand stitching.
Ms. Lean arrived at the techniques of quilting through her drawing. She painted with oils, acrylics, water colors, pastels and other materials. Today, her art quilts are stories told on fabric in three layers stitched together. The physical contact that she experiences while handling fabrics brings her great joy and optimism; the softness and flexibility of the fabrics are pleasant to the touch and the strong colors awaken her. Their messages call her to listen to them, to make them her own, and to bring them into her creations. She collects fabrics as others collect stamps or coins. She relates to the colors and the textures of the fabric without setting a plan or design ahead of time. The process is spontaneous: one color “invites” another color, one shape “invites” another shape until she arrives at total harmony.
As a quilt artist, Ms. Lean has exhibited in solo and group exhibitions in Israel and in the United States. She has participated in the International Quilt Surface Design Symposium at the Columbus College of Art and Design in Columbus, Ohio from 20072013. She is a member of the Israel Art Ultimately, imagination and human creativity Quilts Association and The American Art turned this labor into an art form. The way in Quilts Association. which pieces were laid out and sewn together, the seams and the stitches, and in time, the Ms. Lean worked for many years as an invention of the sewing machine all allowed early childhood teacher and a special needs for a wide range of sewing techniques and teacher. She received her MA in art therapy beautiful results. There seemed to be no from Bowie State College and works with end to the techniques, the proficiency, the individuals and groups. She has three children and seven grandchildren, and lives patterns and the craftsmanship. in Moshav Burgata in the Hefer Valley, Israel.
music to your ears MUSIC LESSONS
Guitar • Piano • Violin • Flute Percussion • Voice • Clarinet Saxophone
Contact Janet Getz at 301.348.3779 or jgetz@jccgw.org.
The Jewish Community Center of Greater Washington is supported by a grant from the Maryland State Arts Council, an agency dedicated to cultivating a vibrant cultural community where the arts thrive. Funding for the Maryland State Arts Council is also provided by the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency which believes that a great nation deserves great art. The JCCGW is also supported in part by funding from the Montgomery County Government and the Arts and Humanities Council of Montgomery County, the County Executive’s Ball for the Arts, and private sources.
14
center
ADULTS & LIFELONG LEARNING
VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT ON JILL GENDLEMAN
Finding Fulfillment in Helping Others Tuesday, January 21 | 7 p.m. | FREE
belonged and a way to be around other Jewish folks more. She has achieved both of these goals here at the Center. “People at the JCC are so friendly and make you feel welcome,” Jill says. “I like the way the staff and the members interact.” In addition, she appreciates that the JCCGW is open to all.
At The Lessans Family Annual Book Festival in November, Jill Gendleman (left) took a brief break from volunteering to pose for a photo with JCCGW Volunteer Director Gloria Derkay. Jill Gendleman’s volunteer activities at the JCCGW and elsewhere are living proof that her forte is in helping others. She volunteers in many capacities at the Center, helping with the ARTsy Holiday Boutique & Craft Show, in the Goldman Art Gallery and at the book and film festivals. Outside of the Center, she volunteers for Hospice Caring and at Strathmore. Jill has done volunteer work counseling troubled teens and
at Columbia Hospital for Women. Born in the District of Columbia, Jill has lived her adult years in Montgomery County. She has a Master’s Degree in counseling and worked as a practicing therapist for many years. She came to the Center four years ago, after the death of her father and a separation from her husband. She was looking for a community where she could feel she
When not volunteering, Jill enjoys writing, drawing, painting and making crafty jewelry. She comments that she is blessed to have a wonderful family and fabulous friends, with whom she enjoys spending time. Jill’s goal is to always give her best to people and to help them along whatever path they choose. “I am trained in mind, body and spirit work,” Jill declares, “and am very good at helping others with their healing. The only thing left in life, besides new adventures, is to find a special someone…and a dog!”
AARP Driver Safety Refresher Course Tuesday, January 28 | 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. This class is designed to sharpen your skills behind the wheel and make you a safer and better driver. The class and curriculum were created by AARP. Many insurance companies will give a discount for successfully
completing the class. Taught by Jerry Hulman, the cost is $15 for AARP members and $20 for the general at 301.348.3760 or dsokobin@jccgw. public. Reservations and payment org to reserve a spot and receive are required before the start of the payment details. class. Please contact Debbie Sokobin
15 6125 Montrose Road • Rockville, MD 20852 • jccgw.org • 301.881.0100
january 2014
Time to Focus on Art please contact Debbie Sokobin at 301.348.3760 or dsokobin@jccgw. org. Space is limited.
We are looking for nonprofessional artists age 65+ who are interested in showing their work at the 16th annual exhibit, “A Lifetime of Perspective: Art by Older Adults,” which will be on display in the Goldman Art Gallery May 12-June 1. The interview and selection process begins this month; to make an appointment,
“A Lifetime of Perspective” was created by Deena and Jerome Kaplan and their family in memory of Deena’s parents, Eve and David Berliant. Chaired by Karen Kaplan, the show is generously funded by the Kaplan family, the Center’s Deena and Jerome A. Kaplan Fund for Senior Adult Programming, and the Berliant/ Kaplan Fund of the United Jewish Endowment Fund of The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington.
SENIOR HEALTH INITIATIVE
Diabetes
Tuesday, January 14 | 10:30 a.m. Please join us to learn about the warning signs and treatments for diabetes with Michelle McBride, Adventist HealthCare certified
diabetes educator. This free program is open to the public. For details, please contact Debbie Sokobin at 301.348.3760 or dsokobin@jccgw.org.
Volunteer Opportunities GOLDMAN ART GALLERY If you have the time to spare and an interest in art, come volunteer as a greeter in the Goldman Art Gallery. Openings are available, especially in the evenings and on Sundays. As a greeter, you will be an active part of each exciting new show. KASS JUDAIC LIBRARY Please consider volunteering on an as-needed basis in the Kass Judaic Library when regularlyscheduled volunteers are unable to make their shift. Computer knowledge is necessary. COMMUNITY SERVICE Monday, January 20 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service at the JCCGW Sunday, April 6 Good Deeds Day at the JCCGW Collection of small toiletries will begin on January 6 in the lobby. To volunteer for any of these activities or for more information, please contact Gloria Derkay at 301.348.3740 or gderkay@ jccgw.org.
Shoshana Bryen (second from left), senior director of the Jewish Policy Center, was at the Center last month to present an update on Israel as part of our senior adult program. Following her talk, some audience members joined her at the podium for this photo. For more information about the senior adult program, please contact Debbie Sokobin at 301.348.3760 or dsokobin@jccgw.org.
“It is not what one says, but rather what one does, that makes a difference.” Ethics of the Fathers 1:17 16
center
Thank You for Your Support To make a tribute gift, please visit jccgw.org/donate, or contact Samantha Frankel at 301.348.3861 or sfrankel@ jccgw.org.
This list reflects gifts received from November 18 through December 18. ART GALLERY/MUSEUM Jane L. and Robert H. Weiner Museum Endowment Fund • in memory of Karl Max Girshman by Robert Weiner and Charlotte Gottlieb CAMP R. Andrew Helgeson “Heart of Gold” Memorial Endowment Fund for Camp JCC Counselor Awards • in memory of “our son, Andrew” by Rita and Richard Helgeson • in honor of Jennifer Helgeson by Rita and Richard Helgeson • in honor of Richard Helgeson by Rita and Jennifer Helgeson • in remembrance of the yahrzeit on January 27th of James Samuel Weiss, maternal great uncle of Andrew by Rita and Richard Helgeson • in memory of the yahrzeit of Chiam Rueben Weiss, maternal great grandfather of Andrew by Rita and Richard Helgeson • in remembrance of the yahrzeit on January 17th of Bob Parker Helgeson, fraternal grandfather of Andrew by Rita and Richard Helgeson • in remembrance of the yahrzeit on December 13th for Timothy Carroll, son of Khristin Carroll by Rita and Richard Helgeson • in remembrance of Dr. Asher Friedman, father of Louise Schneider and father-in-law of Dr. Alan Schneider by Rita, Richard and Jennifer Helgeson • in honor of Joan Miller’s speedy recovery by Rita, Richard and Jennifer Helgeson Jane Hulman Camp Scholarship Fund • in memory of Jane Hulman and in honor of Jerry Hulman by Susan Allen CHILDREN & FAMILY SERVICES Ida Forman Children’s Assistance Fund • in memory of Sara Feldman by Leon Forman; Barbara and Matthew Forman; Carole and Douglas Gelfeld; Nancy and Everett Korman; Susan and James Pittleman; Sandi and Van Sabel CULTURAL ARTS Cultural Arts Programs • in honor of Michael Abrahams by Susan Krichten Vera and Ralph Deckelbaum Music Endowment Fund • in memory of Frankye Linde by Vera and Ralph Deckelbaum • in memory of Jerry Meyer by Vera and Ralph Deckelbaum
CONTRIBUTIONS Toni Goodman Early Childhood Discretionary Fund • in honor of Toni Goodman’s special birthday by Peter, Ann, Jennifer and Jeffrey Benvenuto GENERAL SUPPORT Annual Fund • in memory of Donald Weisman by Beverly Brody; Helen Traiman • in memory of Shelley Feinberg by Eugene Feinberg • in honor of Sam Niedzviecki’s special birthday by Joan Kahn and Len Blackman • in honor of Paul Levy’s birthday by Polly and Manny Miller
Alma and Joseph B. Gildenhorn Endowment for Children with Special Needs • in memory of Herschel Blumberg by Alma and Joseph Gildenhorn • in honor of the bar mitzvah of Mr. and Mrs. Jay Eizenstat’s son, Eli by Alma and Joseph Gildenhorn David Lev Kandel Memorial Endowment Fund • in memory of Martin Melinger by Rami and Melanie Kandel • in memory of James Banks, Sr. by Alan Leeds and family
Robert P. Kogod Leadership Endowment Fund • in memory of Marvin Waghelstein by Harriett and Jack Bobb
Celia and Fred S. Kogod Endowment Fund for Special Needs Children • in memory of Gerry Myer by Jon, Charles and Fred Sternburg
JEWISH FAMILY LIVING & LEARNING Elaine S. Mann Endowment Fund for Israel Education Programs • in memory of Harold Hurwitz by Elaine and Daniel Mann
Special Needs and Inclusion Program • in honor of Timaron Chang by Mandy Chen • in honor of Kochavim counselors by Jeanette Naiman
Jeffrey Wolpe Memorial Fund • in memory of Paula Wolpe by Deborah Lebow Aal; Betty and Gene Siegel
Saul Weiss Winter and Summer Camp Scholarship Fund for Children with Special Needs • in honor of Jacob and Sarah Weiss by Leesa Weiss
SENIOR ADULTS Mary and Harry Harris Endowment Fund for Senior Adult Programs • in honor of Jared Drescher’s birthday by Vicki Jacobson Seniors Organized for Change • in memory of Anne Armstrong by Gloria Derkay and Debbie Sokobin Sweetbaum Family Endowment Fund for Senior Adult Programs • in memory of Dr. Bernard Band by Selma and Harvey Sweetbaum • in memory of Chris Gordon’s mother by Selma and Harvey Sweetbaum • in memory of Don Weisman by Selma and Harvey Sweetbaum SPECIAL NEEDS Dinner of Champions • in memory of Gilbert Schlesinger by Gloria and Lee Derkay • in honor of Diana Bender-Bier and Sara Bender-Bier by Laurel and Bob Mendelsohn; David Stearman • in honor of Heather and Andrew Sachs by Rabbi Stuart Weinblatt • in honor of Jeffrey Slavin by Carol Schwartz • in honor of Julie Zetlin by Morton Zetlin
EARLY CHILDHOOD Marc Jeffrey Streidel Memorial Playground Fund • in memory of Dr. Bernard Band by Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Streidel
17 6125 Montrose Road • Rockville, MD 20852 • jccgw.org • 301.881.0100
Donate your vehicle and support three agencies. • jewish Foundation for group Homes • jewish community center of greater washington • jewish council for the aging
240.283.6000
www.car-j.org
center
january 2014
UPCOMING EVENTS
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1 New Year’s Day 7 am-8 pm H&F Hours
FRIDAY, JANUARY 3
12 p.m. New Friends, a group for widows and widowers. 301.348.3760
TUESDAY, JANUARY 21
12:30-3 p.m. Coming of Age Food & Fun at Mrs. K’s Tollhouse. 301.348.3832 7 p.m. Jewish Book Club: “A History of Modern Israel” by Colin Schindler. 301.348.3816 7 p.m. US Air Force Band Men’s Chorus concert (page 13)
WEEKLY ONGOING PROGRAMS
SUNDAYS 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Elie Ronen Scott Family Gym MONDAYS 7:15 p.m. Duplicate Bridge
THURSDAY, JANUARY 23
TUESDAYS 1 p.m. Women’s Discussion Group 1 p.m. Men’s Discussion Group 2:30 p.m. Chess
1 p.m. JCCGW/Hadassah Book Club: “The Aleppo Codex” by Matti Friedman. 301.348.3816
SATURDAY, JANUARY 25
WEDNESDAYS 10-10:30 a.m. Storytime Singalong. Age 5 and under with parent/caregiver 2:30 p.m. Men’s Discussion Group
SUNDAY, JANUARY 12
10-11:30 a.m. Character Brunch (page 5)
10 a.m. Author Event: “State of Failure” by Jonathan Schanzer (page 13)
MONDAY, JANUARY 13
MONDAY, JANUARY 27
SUNDAY, JANUARY 5
10 a.m.-12 p.m. Books & Fellowship for Jewish singles at 45+. Topic: “How to Deal with Difficult People.” 301.348.3816
THURSDAY, JANUARY 9
10 a.m.-12 p.m. Mommy Movie Monday: “We are the Millers” (code 12901). 301.348.3837 11 a.m. Hurwitz Internal Light Low Vision Support Group meets at Ring House. 301.348.3760
TUESDAY, JANUARY 14
10:30 a.m. Senior Health Initiative: Diabetes (page 16) 12:30-2:30 p.m. Coming of Age “Winter Social - Hollywood Style” at the JCCGW. 301.348.3832 6-9 p.m. Infant CPR and Babyproofing Workshop (page 5)
THURSDAY, JANUARY 16
8:30-10:30 a.m. ProAction Physical Therapy free running clinic for JCCGW members (page 8) 1:30-3 p.m. Coming of Age Panel Discussion at Leisure World with a financial planner, estate attorney and social worker. 301.348.3832
SUNDAY, JANUARY 19
10 a.m.-12 p.m. Books & Fellowship for Jewish singles at 45+. “The Orphan Master’s Son” by Adam Johnson. 301.348.3816 2-4 p.m. Reception for Goldman Art Gallery Exhibit, “The Land that I Love” (page 14)
MONDAY, JANUARY 20
10 a.m. Family entertainment with the band, Milkshake (page 6)
1:30-3:30 p.m. History Club meets at Ring House. 301.348.3760 7:30 p.m. 50+ Singles Group. 301.348.3760 5-8 p.m. Dodgeball Tournament (page 8)
SUNDAY, JANUARY 26
10 a.m.-12 p.m. Mommy Movie Monday: “The Way Way Back” (code 12902). 301.348.3837 10:30 a.m.-2:15 p.m. Coming of Age Day @ the Ring: exercise, discussion, lunch and musical entertainment. 301.348.3832
TUESDAY, JANUARY 28
10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. AARP Driver Safety Refresher Course (page 15) 7 p.m. Low Vision Support Group. Contact Anita Cohen at 301.299.7077.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 29
1:30-3:30 p.m. Coming of Age Movie Matinee at Leisure World: “Fill the Void.” 301.348.3832
THURSDAY, JANUARY 30
7 p.m. Coming of Age excursion to the Kennedy Center for a performance by the National Symphony Orchestra and Joshua Bell. 301.348.3832
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 8
8 p.m. Pianist Brian Ganz in concert (page 13)
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 9
9:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Helping Hands (page 6) 5 p.m. Disabilities Film Festival showing: “The Importance of Tying Your Own Shoes” (page 12)
THURDAYS 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Senior Adult Chorus at Ring House 10:45 a.m. Seniors Organized for Change at Ring House 1 p.m. Scrabble 3 p.m. Drop-in Discussion in Hebrew FRIDAYS 9:30-10:30 a.m. Shabbat Shalom Age 6 mos.-3 yrs. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Chess
Selma Sweetbaum Senior Satellite Program 301.348.3760
MONDAYS Temple Solel in Bowie Ring House in Rockville 1st & 3rd WEDNESDAY OF EACH MONTH Young Israel Shomrei Emunah Congregation in Silver Spring 2nd & 4th WEDNESDAY OF EACH MONTH Har Tzeon Congregation in Wheaton THURSDAYS Har Tzeon Congregation in Wheaton Ring House in Rockville
HEALTH & FITNESS HOURS Monday-Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
5:30 a.m.-10 p.m. 5:30 a.m.-6 p.m. 7 a.m.-8 p.m. 7 a.m.-8 p.m.
The building closes ½ hour after the H&F Department closes.
18
january 2014
training intensive hours classes, small features Gateway! Career The The training training intensive intensivetraining ofof ofintensive hours hoursof 3030 30hours classes, classes,30 small smallclasses, features featuressmall Gateway! Gateway!features Career CareerGateway! The TheCareer materials take-home valuable and mentor, long-term weeks, two over over materials materials take-home take-homematerials valuable valuabletake-home and andvaluable mentor, mentor,and long-term long-termmentor, weeks, weeks,aa aalong-term two twoweeks, over overtwo you: help will course five-day intensive This This you: you: help helpyou: will willhelp course coursewill five-day five-daycourse intensive intensivefive-day This Thisintensive market job hidden the •• discover •• discover resume your •• turbo-charge •• turbo-charge market market job jobmarket hidden hiddenjob the thehidden discover discoverthe resume resume your yourresume turbo-charge turbo-chargeyour search search job job personal personal develop develop • • skills skills interviewing interviewing your your hone •• hone •hone search jobsearch personaljob • develop • developpersonal skills interviewingskills yourinterviewing • honeyour more plans...and plans...and network how •• learn •• learn more more plans...and plans...andmore network network toto tonetwork how howto learn learnhow
WHEN: WHEN: Courses offered monthly for computer-savvy seniors WHEN: WHEN: Courses Courses Coursesoffered offered offeredmonthly monthly monthlyfor for forcomputer-savvy computer-savvy computer-savvyseniors seniors seniors
Coming Coming up: January 13, and February 10, 2014 Coming Comingup: up: up:January January January13, 13, 13,and and andFebruary February February10, 10, 10,2014 2014 2014 WHERE: WHERE: 12320 Parklawn Dr., Rockville, MD 20852 WHERE: WHERE:12320 12320 12320Parklawn Parklawn ParklawnDr., Dr., Dr.,Rockville, Rockville, Rockville,MD MD MD20852 20852 20852 Ca Cllall usua $75 bu Ca Cllall FEE: FEE: $75 otut usus sbao $75 $75
FEE: FEE:
apbao bu cocm om pu tu treortut e cocm o m p p u u ete trtarin ain inin gtg atratr rtarin ain in in 24 2t0 g g 4 a 0 t -359-50-9 24 20 0ta 4--03 16 3-9 9359-50-9 0119 96 616
INFORMATION MORE FOR FOR INFORMATION INFORMATION MORE MOREINFORMATION FOR FORMORE
255-4215 (301) Call Call 255-4215 255-4215 (301) (301)255-4215 Call Call(301)
JCAUniversity@AccessJCA.org e-mail or JCAUniversity@AccessJCA.org JCAUniversity@AccessJCA.org e-mail e-mailJCAUniversity@AccessJCA.org oror ore-mail
Aging® Aging® thethe forfor Council Council Jewish Jewish thethe andand Foundation; Foundation; Cafritz Cafritz Gwendolyn Gwendolyn andand Morris Morris ee Services; Services; & Disability & Disability Aging Aging County County Montgomery Montgomery By By Funded Funded Aging® Aging® thethe forfor Council Council Jewish Jewish thethe andand Foundation; Foundation; Cafritz Cafritz Gwendolyn Gwendolyn andand Morris Morris ee Services; Services; & Disability & Disability Aging Aging County County Montgomery Montgomery By By Funded Funded
® ® ® ®
® ® (JCA) (JCA) Aging Aging the the forfor Council Council Jewish Jewish ® ® (JCA) (JCA) Aging Aging the the forfor Council Council Jewish Jewish www.AccessJCA.org www.AccessJCA.org
www.AccessJCA.org www.AccessJCA.org
19