November 2013
ALL-STAR LINE-UP Dinner of Champions to Honor Jeffrey Z. Slavin Page 5
A CHANUKAH HAPPENING
Come Light the Menorah Page 7
A NOVEMBER TO REMEMBER
The Lessans Family Annual Book Festival Pages 1, 9, 10
VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
Jerilyn Schweitzer Page 15
COVER PHOTO: Dale Singer and Laura Levengard, Book Festival Co-Chairs. See page 9 for a message from Dale and Laura.
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STORY
Ellen and Stuart Lessans Name the Book Festival
A November to Remember
By Andrea Kronzek Brad Stillman, JCCGW president, reflects on Stuart’s kindness in making this meaningful gift to the Center: “Stuart is a thoughtful and generous person who recognizes and appreciates the unique and important value of Jewish culture in linking our community’s past with its future.” “I have always thought the JCCGW Book Festival was a fabulous event. It’s such a high-level program that the whole community can be proud of,” Stuart states. “My wife Ellen and I are so thrilled to now have our family name associated with it.” The JCCGW is honored that the Lessans family has chosen to support the Center and those we serve in this way. CEO Michael Feinstein states, “We are profoundly grateful to Dr. Lessans and his family for their generosity and commitment. His gift combines a wonderful and appropriate tribute to his family with an enduring benefit to the community.”
Dr. Stuart, Faye, Matthew and Ellen Lessans
making a gift to an organization that they would wholeheartedly approve of,” Stuart explains. He and Ellen also wanted to honor their children, twins Faye and Matthew, who are 7th graders at the Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School and are active participants in many JCCGW programs and activities. “What could be a finer The Lessans Family Annual Book Festival, environment for them?” now in its 44th year, is one of the largest Jewish Community Center book festivals in Ellen is a clinical psychologist in private the United States. Featuring more than 20 practice in Rockville. Stuart established an events with best-selling and up-and-coming ophthalmology practice in Silver Spring in authors, and a store offering 5,000 books for 1973, specializing in cataract surgery, and sale, the event draws thousands of visitors retired in 2005. He now works as “Mr. Mom” from the community each year. This year’s to Faye and Matthew, who look forward to festival will be held November 8-17. For celebrating their Bnai Mitzvah one week details, please see page 9 or visit jccgw.org. “I wanted to honor the memory of my before the opening of the Book Festival. wonderful parents, whose commitment to “This month is probably the most exciting family and community was limitless, by November I have ever had!” remarks Stuart. One of Dr. Stuart Lessans’ most vivid childhood memories is of his father reading poignant stories to him and his sisters, Dana and Carole. “Dad’s tears would be flowing, and we would also cry,” he recalls, illustrating the powerful effect that words can have on the human spirit. How fitting, then, that Stuart and his devoted wife Ellen have chosen to name the JCCGW’s book festival, an annual celebration of the literary arts. This longstanding and always muchanticipated event is now called The Lessans Family Annual Book Festival in honor of Ellen and Stuart’s children and in loving memory of Stuart’s parents, Sara and Samuel J. Lessans.
CENTER SCENE EDITORIAL STAFF Adrienne Fierro Chief Communications Officer Mauricio Garcia Production Artist/Design Andrea Kronzek Editor Molly Rosenberg Communications & Marketing Associate
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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 Molly Rosenberg at 301.348.3725 or mrosenberg@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
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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
Who We Are, Today
NOVEMBER 2013
Message from Michael
After reading the recently released Pew Research The Pew survey looks at what being Jewish in America Center’s survey of U.S. Jews, “A Portrait of Jewish means in 2013 by looking at what Jews believe and do. Americans,” I realized that I am an anomaly. My family In sum, the survey paints a picture of Jewish Americans joined a Reform synagogue when I was 10 years old. who are overwhelmingly proud to be Jewish and have My mother joined behind my father’s back because she a strong sense of belonging to the Jewish people, wanted my younger brothers and me yet have become less religious, are to become Bar Mitzvahs. Interestingly, intermarrying more, and are not she did not grow up in a religious raising their children Jewish. Over household, while my father grew up 60% of Jewish Americans believe in an Orthodox household. We led a that being Jewish is a matter of very Reform Jewish life. Kosher for ancestry or culture, as opposed to Passover in my house was ham and 15% who say it is mainly a matter cheese on matzah. I participated in the of religion. synagogue youth group but never went to Jewish camp. I went to synagogue While 22% of the total adult Jewish on the high holidays and observed population identifies themselves Passover, but didn’t particularly as cultural/secular, when we peel engage in the Jewish community Michael Feinstein, CEO back the first layer of the study, we through college and into my mid-30s. find a dramatic generational shift in identity and practice. Young Jews are increasingly likely According to the Pew survey, someone like me would to have no religion, despite saying they are Jewish. most likely have remained Reform or have become a And, Jews of no religion are less likely to marry other cultural/secular Jew (termed a “Jew of no religion”). Jews (since 2000, 72% of non-Orthodox Jews chose Yet, here I am working in the Jewish community. to marry outside the faith), raise their children Jewish, My wife and I belong to, and regularly attend, two participate in Jewish rituals, belong to synagogues and synagogues: one Conservative (originally mine) and one other Jewish organizations, give to Jewish charities, Orthodox (originally hers). Yet, I do not really identify feel connected to the Jewish community and care with either denomination; I consider myself as “just about Israel. Jewish” or “post-denominational.” While 80% of American Jews said that being Jewish This against-the-trend journey began when an in-law is important in their life, it is clear from the survey that married someone who wasn’t Jewish and they were there is very little consensus about what it means to debating whether to raise their future children with be Jewish. More than anything else, “remembering both religions or with different religions. We did not the Holocaust,” is viewed as essential to being Jewish. judge what was right for them, but we decided that our This is followed by “leading an ethical and moral daughter should have a strong Jewish identity so that life” and “working for justice/equality.” “Being part whatever decisions she would make as an adult would of a Jewish community” is near the bottom of the be from a position of knowledge of both her faith and list and ranks below “having a good sense of humor.” people. That meant Jewish day school and summer While participation has declined over time, 70% of us camps for her. participated in a Passover seder last year and over half of us fasted all or part of Yom Kippur. You can read the But a funny thing happened on the way to the forum. I full survey at www.pewresearch.org/religion. started to get involved as a volunteer at my daughter’s day school, and I found community. We then began to There is a significant gap between Jewish identity and participate in adult Jewish education, and I found a new participation in Jewish life. If we believe that Jewish community. In my own way, Jewish learning became life is worth embracing, what pathways are there to a passion for me. I found meaning in the richness of welcome, meaningfully engage and support Jews Jewish texts and what our tradition has to say about of no religion—particularly our younger generations modern life. I learned with open-minded teachers in and those who are intermarried? How can we better informal settings with friends. The more I learned, the emphasize the worth of a Jewish life involving more I wanted to do—both with community and in my community, belief, action and values? I would appreciate own religious practice. There is no doubt in my mind hearing your thoughts about the survey. Do you think we that this journey brought me to the JCCGW where I should care about the results? Should reversing these hope, as an organization, we can help ignite a Jewish trends be a goal? What role do you believe the JCCGW spark in the increasing number of Jews who identify should play in creating a vibrant and purposeful Jewish as Jewish but are not, or are minimally, involved in future? Please email me at mfeinstein@jccgw.org. Jewish life. Photo by Shmulik Almany
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BEHIND THE SCENES
Thankful for a Culture of Inclusiveness Message from JCCGW President Brad Stillman In the United States, the month of November is a time when our thoughts turn to thankfulness for our country and our community, as well as the many opportunities they provide us in terms of living rich and fulfilling lives. (This is, of course, in addition to many being thankful for the invention of American football.) Perhaps it is appropriate then that this year, Chanukah coincides with Thanksgiving Day for the first time ever (and which won’t happen for approximately another 79,000 years). In many ways, both holidays stem from the desire to hold on to and freely pursue religious beliefs—with a few miracles thrown in for good measure. The Pilgrims sought religious freedom in the New World, and the Maccabees fought against efforts to outlaw the practice of Judaism. In our modern world in this community where religious freedom is secure, one of the other things we can be most thankful for is the culture of inclusiveness that is part of the foundation of our JCC.
champions). I encourage you to participate, as it special needs—benefit those with special needs is one of the most inspiring, meaningful and fun who participate. However, if you spend any time events of the year. While the dinner at all at these programs, you will honors outstanding sports figures see that the typically-developing and high school scholar/athletes, children at camp, the teen the program is about much more volunteers, counselors and staff than these wonderful individual benefit from inclusion programs accomplishments. The Dinner of just as much. These programs offer Champions supports the JCCGW’s the opportunity to learn and grow world-class inclusion programs that and have fun, leading to greater play such an important role in our understanding of and appreciation community, and for which we should for all people in our community, all be thankful. regardless of their different abilities. As a community we can It is probably obvious to all that the Brad Stillman, JCCGW President be proud of—and thankful for— JCCGW’s efforts on behalf of those with special the fact that our JCC is a place where barriers, needs—such as Camp JCC’s inclusion program, whatever they may be, can truly disappear. through which children with special needs attend Camp JCC as full participants at no additional As you think about all that you have to be thankful cost; the discounted membership rate offered for, and miracles big and small that we witness in to residents of the Jewish Foundation for Group our lives each day, remember to include your JCC. November is the month during which the JCCGW Homes; and Friendship Circle, a program that holds its annual Dinner of Champions. (For more meets at the JCCGW and cultivates friendships information, please see page 5 or visit jccgw.org/ between teen volunteers and children who have
The JCCGW: a True Center for Our Community Focus on Board Member Nathan Bortnick As the JCCGW celebrates its centennial this year, we reflect on the visionary leaders who have established and sustained the Center as a vital and thriving hub of our community. This article is the third in a three-part series of interviews focusing on our new generation of leaders—our youngest board members.
Center catered to my every need. In fact, I can even still recall a few of my summer counselors, who I now see at the Center dropping off their children for camp! When I came back to this area after college, I realized the JCCGW was more than just a fun place to be. It provided a sense of comfort when I returned after graduation and began playing basketball in the gym on a regular basis. I began to take notice that the JCCGW truly serves as the center for the Jewish community.
What is your history with the Center and with the JCCGW Board? As far back as I can remember, the JCCGW has played a significant role in my life. Having attended Rebecca Bortnick and JCCGW Board the Charles E. Smith Jewish Day Member Nathan Bortnick In 2011, I was asked to join the School, the Center was a popular hangout during board by [JCCGW immediate past president] Scott my early school years. My friends and I would Cohen and gladly accepted. One of my primary cross East Jefferson Street and enter the Center goals as a member of the board is to increase for our various after-school activities. I remember involvement among the young professionals within being especially fond of “the cookie man” who our community. always greeted our arrival with a smile and a fresh chocolate chip cookie. From karate (with With what types of programming have you Mr. Malakoff, who is still teaching the class!) and been involved? ceramics, to music class and swim lessons, the My wife Rebecca and I have helped to establish
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6125 Montrose Road • Rockville, MD 20852 • jccgw.org • 301.881.0100
programming for young professionals, such as a successful shakshuka (popular Israeli dish) cookoff which gathered 20 young professionals at the JCCGW for a “Top Chef” competition, as well as “Bagels & Billy Goats,” an event which consisted of 40 young professionals hiking along the Billy Goat Trail at Great Falls, stopping along the way to socialize and enjoy bagels together. I have also been involved with the JCCGW Golf and Tennis Tournament and the Dinner of Champions. Both events are meaningful to me, as proceeds benefit exceptional programming such as senior adult programs and our nationally-recognized inclusion program. What do you see as the value of the Center to young Jewish professionals? The Center serves as a home to young professionals, offering both social and professional career activities. It provides a platform for all, whether seeking networking opportunities or looking to schmooze with singles or other young professionals, or perhaps both. The Center attracts individuals sharing a common bond, seeking an array of desires, and caters to all.
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NOVEMBER 2013
Support
ISRAEL CONNECTION
Chanukah in Israel: No Ordinary Day
Amit Levinson (right), the JCCGW shaliach (Israeli emissary), is shown with his family (from left, sister Maayan, mother Lisa, father Paul, sister Orly and brother Yehiel) enjoying sufgania (round jelly donuts) in Jerusalem last Chanukah.
JCCGW shaliach (Israeli emissary) way, it looked like an ordinary day, like Chanukah window or homefront. Sometimes we’d even Amit Levinson shares his memories of is just a name; that was because the sun hadn’t yet catch a glimpse of a family lighting a menorah set, so no menorot (branched candelabras) were lit. and singing the blessings. When we got back to Chanukah 2012: Every year at Chanukah, we try to light at least one candle out of the eight with the whole family together. My parents, brother and I live in Rehovot; my two sisters live in Jerusalem, about an hour’s drive away. One night during Chanukah last year, we drove to Jerusalem to light a candle. On the
Rehovot, we lit our menorah so that we could feel After arriving at my sister’s house and lighting the the holiday in our home. candles, we went out to eat a sufgania at a coffee shop near my sister’s home; it was delicious! Please join us for the JCCGW’s anything-butordinary Chanukah 2013 celebration on December On the way home, we could start feeling Chanukah 4. Details are on page 7. in the air. Menorot were everywhere, in each
ShalomLearning: Jewish Education for Everyone also offered at several local synagogues, provides 3rd-6th graders the opportunity to discover the connections between their secular lives and their Jewish identity. Using seven different Jewish values—including gevurah, or being strong enough to do the right thing, and achrayut, recognizing our responsibility to heal the world—ShalomLearning ties modern examples to Bible stories, Israel and other Jewish events. In class, it’s common to discuss online bullying, Spiderman and Joseph, all in one conversation. The pluralistic approach works well for many Jewish families, especially those with busy afterschool schedules. ShalomLearning at the JCCGW is particularly attractive to families who do not yet belong to a synagogue. Classes are held on Sundays; however, once a month families get a break from the carpool as students attend class In September, we began our second year of online. They all see, hear and interact with each ShalomLearning, a new, engaging Jewish education other—just in a virtual classroom rather than a program held at the JCCGW. This program, which is
traditional one. “Homework” consists of going to a secure site and watching relevant movies or participating in discussion boards. By incorporating technology into the program, students are more engaged and excited. “For Jesse, being able to prepare for classes and participate using a computer is really great. He’s one of those kids who just enjoys being online and exploring,” said Candice Siegel about her 4th grade son, who returned to the program this fall. Like most of the other ShalomLearning students at the JCCGW, Jesse did not participate in any type of formal Jewish education prior to enrolling. “We’re happy we now have a place we feel comfortable. I can’t wait for my other boys to be old enough.” To find out more, please visit www.shalomlearning. com or call 301.660.3800.
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SUPPORT Saturday, November 23 | 7 p.m. Cocktails, Dinner, Awards Ceremony and More!
Please join us for the 22nd Annual Dinner of Champions An All-Star Celebration! Chaired by Anita & Arthur Polott and Heather & Andrew Sachs, the event honors those who have achieved success in the world of sports, and those who have made extraordinary contributions to our community. The Dinner of Champions raises the vital funds needed each summer to support Camp JCC’s nationallyrecognized inclusion program which benefits not only children with special needs, but also typically-developing children. We are able to offer children with a wide range of disabilities a wonderful camp experience because we provide one-to-one counselor support, adaptive equipment, lift-equipped buses and whatever else they need so that they can fully participate in every activity. Families of children in the inclusion program do not pay any more than the typical camper, despite the fact that it costs the JCCGW almost three times as much to provide the additional services. In order for the JCCGW to cover the cost of these additional services, we rely on the generous support of our community. This year, Jeffrey Z. Slavin will receive the Irene and Abe Pollin Humanitarian Award. Mark Ein, Edward Bernard Kahnz”l, Joe Yasharoff, Rachel Chernikoff Zang and Julie Zetlin will be inducted into the Greater Washington
A Message from the Dinner of Champions Co-chairs
Jewish Sports Hall of Fame. The Hyman M. and Phillip D. Perlo High School Athlete Award will be presented to Diana Bender-Bier, Sara Bender-Bier, Madison Cannon, Marissa Cannon, Josh Fried, Bergen Kassoff and Alex Witkin. Sponsorship levels range from $100 to $10,000. Benefits include event tickets, sponsor banners, tribute book ads and more. We invite you to join Doris and Sanford Slavin, Anita and Arthur Polott, Heather and Andrew Sachs, the Clark Charitable Foundation, the Bender Foundation, Inc., The Annette M. and Theodore N. Lerner Family Foundation and others in supporting the JCCGW’s vital special needs and inclusion program. Your generosity will give children, teens and young adults with special needs the opportunity to shine! Enter to win! Purchase raffle tickets online at jccgw.org/champions for exciting prizes, including tickets to major sporting events and shows (once-in-a-lifetime opportunities!), Walt Disney World passes and more. You do not need to be present or a Maryland resident to win. Register and/or purchase raffle tickets online at jccgw.org/champions. For more information, contact Jodi Shulimson at 301.348.3769 or jshulimson@jccgw.org.
IRENE AND ABE POLLIN HUMANITARIAN AWARD
Honorable Jeffrey Z. Slavin Honorable Jeffrey Z. Slavin
Heather and Andrew Sachs
Anita and Arthur Polott
We are very honored to serve as co-chairs for this year’s Dinner of Champions. We are Camp JCC parents who have been touched by the uniqueness and magic of Camp JCC, though in different ways. Arthur and Anita have typical campers (not in the inclusion program) who have benefitted from the diversity of the camp and who have become more empathetic and sensitive to the challenges that some of their camp friends face. Andrew and Heather have a child in the inclusion program who has benefitted from the opportunity to play and learn alongside her typically-developing peers and to flourish in this supportive and loving environment. We have come together to get the message out that EVERYONE— ALL campers, staff, and our community as a whole— benefits from the Camp JCC Inclusion Program. We hope you will join us at the Dinner of Champions to celebrate this wonderful program and, if you cannot attend the dinner, that you will support the Inclusion Program in other ways — through buying raffle tickets, sponsorships or tribute book advertisements, or just by making a simple donation. Thank you in advance for all of your support!
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The Irene and Abe Pollin Humanitarian Award is presented annually to an individual who has been involved in public service and has made a positive difference to society.
first “Nonprofit Village”-where nonprofits co-house to increase their effectiveness and efficiency. He has also been a longtime leader of Washington Grantmakers, the Washington Area Women’s Jeffrey Z. Slavin Foundation, Leadership Montgomery We are honored to present and a number of other collaborative Photo by Daniel B. this year’s award to Jeffrey McNeill efforts to increase philanthropy and Slavin. Jeffrey is a generous strengthen nonprofits in our region. and strategic philanthropist in Montgomery County and across the Washington Jeffrey has also championed many efforts to metropolitan region, who has used his raise the visibility and impact of numerous charisma and commitment to inspire individual education, arts, human service many other local individuals, families and and community development organizations. businesses to give where they live. In 2011, He was the recipient of Washington Hebrew he was named Philanthropist of the Year by Congregation’s prestigious Avodah award the Community Foundation for Montgomery given to members of the congregation who County. exhibit good deeds in the form of work and service. Jeffrey’s magnetic personality and dogged determination have helped countless Jeffrey stewards his parents’ Sanford and nonprofit organizations strengthen their Doris Slavin Foundation and is the three-term community impact and managerial mayor of Somerset. effectiveness. He has served as the founding board chair of Montgomery County’s
6125 Montrose Road • Rockville, MD 20852 • jccgw.org • 301.881.0100
NOVEMBER 2013
2013 GREATER WASHINGTON JEWISH SPORTS HALL OF FAME Mark Ein
Edwin Bernard Kahnz�l
Joe Yasharoff
Owner and Founder Washington Kastles
Football Washington Redskins
Managing Editor Comcast SportsNet
Rachel Chernikoff Zang
Julie Zetlin
Soccer Harvard University
Rhythmic Gymnastics Member, 2012 US Olympic Team
2013 HYMAN M. AND PHILLIP D. PERLO HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETE AWARD Diana Bender-Bier
Sara Bender-Bier
Madison Cannon
Marissa Cannon
Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School Dance
Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School Soccer
Walt Whitman High School Basketball
Walt Whitman High School Basketball
Josh Fried
Bergen Kassoff
Alex Witkin
Walt Whitman High School Basketball
Bethesda Chevy-Chase High School Gymnastics
Sherwood High School Swimming
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Children & Families
A Chanukah Happening Come light the menorah… with us! Wednesday, December 4 • 5:30-6:20 p.m. Purchase dinner from our kosher vendor or bring your own dairy or vegetarian meal. Enjoy eating together as a community in our social hall. • 6:30 p.m. Candle lighting led by the Tzofim (Israel Scouts) • 6:30-7:30 p.m. Lots of fun games & activities (good for ages 3-8) • 7:30 p.m. Children collect a departing gift! Candle lighting, games and activities are FREE. For details, contact Tracey Dorfmann at 301.348.3712 or tdorfmann@jccgw.org.
LECTURE: PARENTING WITH CONFIDENCE
Fewer Bribes, Fewer Threats, Less Exhaustion Monday, November 18 • 7-8:30 p.m.
Acclaimed psychologist Dr. Kay Abrams will be at the Center to address the daily struggles that parents of young children encounter. She will focus on how to parent with calm, confident authority.
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The fee for this workshop is $5 for members and $10 for the general public. To register, please visit jccgw.org/parenting. For more information, contact Lauren Dworkin at 301.348.3837 or ldworkin@jccgw.org.
6125 Montrose Road • Rockville, MD 20852 • jccgw.org • 301.881.0100
Sukkot Revisited The joyous Jewish holiday of Sukkot, which fell in September this year, is always a special time for the JCCGW preschool. The students learned about the holiday while spending time in the sukkah that was beautifully and colorfully decorated with the creative crafts they had made, and enjoyed Pizza in the Hut with their families.
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Camp, Youth, Tweens & Teens
WINTER BREAK KID KOVERAGE
Have a Blast over Winter Break
NOVEMBER 2013
BBYO
December 23, 24, 26, 27, 30 and 31* • 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
If you can’t beat the cold, join us in the warmth of the JCCGW for arts & crafts, sports, swimming and a field trip! The fee is $360 for members and $410 for the general public (free for students in grade K-7 participating in the Kids After School program on the days enrolled in Kids After School). Morning and afternoon care are also available.
To register for Winter Break Kid Koverage, please visit jccgw.org. For more information, please contact Amy Fauber at 301.348.3889 or afauber@jccgw.org. *On Tuesday, December 31, Kid Koverage closes at 12:30 p.m. Afternoon care is not offered that day.
BBYO is now accepting new member registration for teens in 9th-12th grade. Programming for 6th-8th graders is also occurring on a monthly basis. Mark your calendars for our annual Sweetheart/ Heartthrob dance on Wednesday, November 27. For more information, please call 301.984.6073 or send an email to dcc@bbyo.org.
…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
Applications Returning Camp JCC member* campers October 23**-November 3 Returning Camp JCC campers November 4**-12 JCCGW members new to Camp JCC November 13**-26 Open applications November 27**
Summer Kids Club Aleph Week June 16-20 Bet Week August 11-15 Gimmel Week August 18-22
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!
*Must have family level membership in good standing. **Applications can be submitted beginning at 12 noon.
For details, contact Amy Fauber 301.348.3889 or afauber@jccgw.org
For more information, contact Camp JCC at 301.348.3883 or campjcc@jccgw.org.
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LITERARY ARTS
The Lessans Family Annual Book Festival
November 8-17 | Tickets are on sale now. Visit jccgw.org/bookfestival or call the box office at 301.348.3805. Tickets are non-refundable.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 7 7 p.m. PRE-OPENING COMEDY NIGHT Marion Grodin | Standing Up: A Memoir of a Funny (Not Always) Life FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 8 10:30 a.m. 8th ANNUAL BOOK CLUB BRUNCH Michael Lavigne | The Wanting: A Novel SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10 9:30 a.m. BREAKFAST AND BOOK TALK Mark Russ Federman | Russ & Daughters: Reflections and Recipes from the House That Herring Built 11:30 a.m. BREAKFAST AND BOOK TALK Robert Weintraub | The Victory Season: The End of World War II and the Birth of Baseball’s Golden Age 1:30 p.m. Paula Shoyer | The Holiday Kosher Baker: Traditional & Contemporary Holiday Desserts 3:30 p.m. COME TO A TEA PARTY! Pamela Mayer | Don’t Sneeze at the Wedding 6:30 p.m. PATRONS RECEPTION 7:30 p.m. BOOK TALK Alan Dershowitz | Taking the Stand: My Life in the Law MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11 12 p.m. Lynn Povich | The Good Girls Revolt: How the Women of Newsweek Sued their Bosses and Changed the Workplace
7:30 p.m. MOVIE NIGHT Philip Roth: Unmasked TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12 4:30 p.m. STUDENT PROGRAM Christopher Huh | Keeping My Hope 7 p.m. Alan L. Wurtzel | Good to Great to Gone: The 60 Year Rise and Fall of Circuit City 8:15 p.m. Thomas Harding in Conversation with Richard Breitman | Hanns and Rudolf: The True Story of the German Jew Who Tracked Down and Caught the Kommandant of Auschwitz WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 13 12 p.m. Marianne Szegedy-Maszák | I Kiss Your Hands Many Times: Hearts, Souls, and Wars in Hungary 7 p.m. A. Scott Berg | Wilson 7:30 p.m. Jane Gershon Weitzman | Art & Sole: A Spectacular Selection of More Than 150 Fantasy Art Shoes from the Stuart Weitzman Collection THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14 12 p.m. Ann Kirschner | Lady at the O.K. Corral: The True Story of Josephine Marcus Earp 6:30 p.m. Jill Smokler | Motherhood Comes Naturally (and Other Vicious Lies)
8:15 p.m. Yossi Klein Halevi | Like Dreamers: The Story of the Israeli Paratroopers Who Reunited Jerusalem and Divided a Nation FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15 12 p.m. LUNCHEON AND LECTURE Elinor Lipman | The View from Penthouse B and I Can’t Complain: (All Too) Personal Essays SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 17 9:30 a.m. BREAKFAST & BOOK TALK Marvin Kalb | The Road to War: Presidential Commitments Honored and Betrayed 11:30 a.m. Elliott Abrams | Tested by Zion: The Bush Administration and the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict 1:30 p.m. COOKING DEMO AND BOOK TALK Ellen Kassoff Gray and Todd Gray | The New Jewish Table: Modern Seasonal Recipes for Traditional Dishes 3:30 p.m. COOKIES & MILK STORYTIME Rabbi Jamie Korngold | Sadie’s Almost Marvelous Menorah SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15 10 a.m. POST-FESTIVAL BREAKFAST & BOOK TALK Judith Martin | Miss Manners Minds Your Business
A Message from Dale Singer and Laura Levingard, co-chairs of The Lessans Family Annual Book Festival: As avid readers, having the opportunity to co-chair The Lessans Family Annual Book Festival has been an educational experience, while at the same time allowing us to fulfill our desire to serve our Jewish community. This signature event has the potential to reach so many people in our community of all stages and ages with a diverse and rich line-up of authors. We have been fortunate to work with many dedicated volunteers and JCCGW staff over the past several months.
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6125 Montrose Road • Rockville, MD 20852 • jccgw.org • 301.881.0100
We look forward to kicking off the Book Festival with stand-up comedy from Marion Grodin, attending a tea party with Pamela Mayer, tasting treats at a cooking demonstration with the owners of Equinox, hearing from Alan Dershowitz at the Patrons event, and that’s just for starters! The book festival really has something for everyone. Check out the schedule and join us!
NOVEMBER 2013
Standing Up: A Memoir of a Funny (Not Always) Life An Interview with Author MARION GRODIN
What role has Judaism played in your career as a comedian? The role of Judaism in my comedy is huge, in that my entire sensibility is very Jewish. And by that I mean, warm, open, soulful... everything wonderful Jewish people are. Also, I get booked frequently by Jewish organizations, so the role of Judaism in my comedy has a lot to do with making sure my bills are paid! Our people keep me working!
Daughter of funnyman Charles Grodin, Marion Grodin will keep the audience in stitches as she kicks off this year’s book festival at a preopening comedy night on Thursday, November 7 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $15 for members and $20 for the general public, and can be purchased online at jccgw.org, by visiting the box office, or by calling 301.348.3805. Marion knows first-hand that laughter truly is the best medicine. A stand-up comedian and screenwriter who has appeared on Late Night with Conan O’Brien, she will talk about her diverse and often challenging life experiences (including a huge crush on actor Jeff Bridges!) with hilarity, wit and lots of charm.
on both sides of my family. I found out a few years ago that my dad’s grandfather was actually a Talmudic scholar who was known for “making the Torah humorous.” How could I NOT be funny, coming from those genes! How did you get your start? I got my start one hot summer night onstage at Standup NY, the comedy club a few blocks from my apartment on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. I was only on stage for five minutes. I got huge laughs. I called my dad the second I got off stage. I told him I did really well, and I just hoped the sensation that I might be having a heart attack would abate soon. And it did...about a year later!
This event is sponsored by Bruce, Paula and How would you describe your comedic Debra Robinson, Harold and Shirley Robinson style? My comedic style is affectionately edgy, Philanthropic Fund. extremely self-revealing, highly interactive When did you first realize that you had a with the audience, and chock full of improv! I love this way of doing comedy. It makes the gift for comedy? I probably always knew I was funny. After all, experience so personal and immediate for the I’m from a long line of DEEPLY funny people audience!
Book Store Hours
Thursday, November 7 Friday, November 8 Sunday, November 10 Monday, November 11 Tuesday, November 12 Wednesday, November 13 Thursday, November 14 Friday, November 15 Sunday, November 17
6-9 p.m. Special Opening Night Hours! 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.; 3:30-9:30 p.m. 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.; 3:30-9:30 p.m. 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.; 3:30-9:30 p.m. 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.; 3:30-9:30 p.m. 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
And this would be a very incomplete answer if I did not just say what we all know—Jews are funny...really funny! So, I definitely credit my being Jewish with being inextricably tied to how funny I am, especially given the long tradition of “funny” in my family....dating back to my great grandfather (i.e., the Talmudic scholar who was known for making the Torah humorous!). Other than your father, who has influenced you the most in your career? In addition to my dad, I’ve definitely been influenced by Lenny Bruce, Jonathan Winters, Richard Pryor, Dave Chappelle, Chris Rock... entertainers who tell the truth, often about very painful things, and get you to laugh uncontrollably while they do it! How has humor helped you during the “not always” funny moments in your life? We all know that laughter truly is the best medicine. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve thanked God, out loud, for allowing me to see the humor in everything!
The Kass Judaic Library will be closed October 1 through November 19 for Book Festival preparations. Books may be returned to the front desk during that time. We apologize for any inconvenience.
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HEALTH & FITNESS
Free Fitness Friday
Just in Time for Chanukah…
Massage and Personal Training Specials
MASSAGE PACKAGE Starting this month, every Friday will be Free Fitness Friday at the JCCGW! This is an opportunity for members to bring a guest at no cost to try out the fitness center/pool. Guests are limited to four free visits a year. If the guest joins, the member will receive Center Cash which can be used toward personal training, massage services, birthday parties, private swim lessons and private gymnastics lessons. For more information about Free Fitness Friday, please contact Marissa Gelber at 301.348.3856 or mgelber@jccgw.org, or Marty Thomas 301.348.3891 or mthomas@jccgw.org.
Three one-hour massages for $199 (a $225 value!) Limit two packages per household. Available for purchase from November 1 through December 5; must be used within 180 days of purchase. Members only. Contact Marty Thomas at 301.348.3891 or mthomas@jccgw.org.
Get in the Swim Through private, semi-private or group swim lessons, our instructors teach a variety of strokes including the front crawl, back crawl, elementary backstroke, breaststroke, sidestroke and butterfly. More advanced level students refine their skills and discover how to incorporate swimming into a lifelong fitness program. What are you waiting for? Get in the swim of it! For more information contact Caroline Summer is months away, but it’s never too Cardullo, American Red Cross Certified early to make sure your child is water safe, Water Safety Instructor, at 301.348.3890 or or to refine your swimming skills. Our swim ccardullo@jccgw.org. lessons offer something for everybody.
11 6125 Montrose Road • Rockville, MD 20852 • jccgw.org • 301.881.0100
PERSONAL TRAINING PACKAGES Three half-hour training sessions for $129 or Three one-hour training sessions for $199 Limit one package per household. Available for purchase from November 1 through December 5; must be used within 12 months of purchase. Members only. Contact Dahhia Johnson at 301.348.3894 or dsmith-johnson@jccgw.org.
NOVEMBER 2013
Youth Sports Scene
Keep your kids active at the JCCGW during the winter months! We offer basketball, karate, gymnastics, ga-ga and more. The next session of classes begins the week of November 25. Register now at jccgw.org. For more information, contact Sarah Catanzaro at 301.348.3892 or scatanzaro@jccgw.org.
For the best in child, family and senior services...
FREE Running Clinic Thursday, November 7 • 3-5 p.m.
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.
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 individual running assessments to JCCGW members in the Health and Fitness Center. Those who would like to participate must sign up for a time slot by calling 301.881.2273.
Rachel Miller is well known in the local running community and has been involved in running clinics in the area for 10 years. She has been quoted in Runner’s World magazine and has hosted a segment of a local radio show for six years. Rachel has lectured extensively to local running groups and has completed six marathons. She has served as medical coordinator for several races.
Think JSSA JSSA has been helping children, adults and families meet emotional, social and physical challenges for more than 120 years. Individual, couples, group and family counseling Social skills therapy groups, clubs and camps • Pre-marital, marital, and divorce counseling • Parent training and education • Special needs services • The Center for Autism through the Lifespan • Employment and career services • Senior services • Hospice care • •
View our current programs: www.jssa.org Jewish Social Service Agency 301.816.2633 • contactus@jssa.org Connect with Us Claims Conference The Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany www.claimscon.org
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ARTS & CULTURE
GOLDMAN ART GALLERY
ARTsy Holiday Boutique & Craft Show October 20-November 5 and November 19-December 4 Join us for a unique holiday boutique, art show and fun shopping experience all in one. Find that original, one-of-a-kind gift for special friends and family of all ages, or treat yourself! Jewelry, wearable art, painted furniture, fused glass, Chanukah items, art for the walls or table…we have it all, and more!
Holiday Boutique and Craft Show Hours Mondays – Thursdays: 9:30 am.-7 p.m. Sundays & Fridays: 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturdays: Closed
ARTsy Chocolate & Gelt Reception Sunday, November 24 • 2-4 p.m. Shop for that unique and original handmade For more information, please contact Phyllis gift for family and friends of all ages. Have your Altman at 301.348.3770 or paltman@jccgw.org. present wrapped while you enjoy delicious chocolate treats and holiday gelt!
AIR FORCE BAND CHAMBER MUSIC CONCERT SERIES
Celtic Aire Folk Quartet Tuesday, November 5 at 7 p.m. • FREE Celtic Aire, the premier folk ensemble of the Air Force, performs great classic melodies with refreshing new flavor. From footstomping tunes to heart-warming ballads, these professional vocalists play it all while accompanying themselves on traditional
Celtic instruments. They also add Celtic flavor to some of your favorite songs, always offering a unique and exciting performance. Those who plan to attend this free performance are asked to RSVP to Janet Getz at 301.348.3779 or jgetz@jccgw.org.
POLINGER ARTISTS OF EXCELLENCE CONCERT SEASON
All in the Family: Jonathan Biss and Miriam Fried in Concert Sunday, November 17 • 7:30 p.m.
Pianist Jonathan Biss and his mother, violinist Miriam Fried, will take to the JCCGW’s Kreeger Auditorium stage to perform a brilliant program, featuring sonatas by Beethoven and Schumann. Biss is Neubauer Family Chair in Piano Studies at the Curtis Institute Together, violinist Miriam Fried and her of Music, and recently taught a son, pianist Jonathan Biss, “combine Coursera online course—with more power and delicacy…as natural as than 30,000 students enrolled— breathing,” according to The Phoenix. on Beethoven’s piano sonatas. He represents the third generation in a family of professional musicians that, in addition to his mother, includes his grandmother Raya
Garbousova, one of the first well-known female cellists, and his father, violist/violinist Paul Biss. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to hear, according to the St. Paul Pioneer Press, “a glorious collaboration between two like-minded players,” an up-and-coming young star and a seasoned veteran. Tickets are $30 for members; $35 for senior adults (age 62+) and students; and $40 for the general public. To purchase tickets, please go to jccgw.org/concerts or call the Box Office at 301.348.3872. The America Israel Cultural Foundation (AICF) invites all patrons to a post-concert dessert reception with the artists.
13 6125 Montrose Road • Rockville, MD 20852 • jccgw.org • 301.881.0100
NOVEMBER 2013
Dance Teachers Set the “Barre” High We’re on the Air
Internationally-known dance professional Alvin Mayes is one of the many talented and respected instructors on the JCCGW Dance School staff. Photo by John T. Consoli
When hiring instructors for the dance teaching, JCCGW dance instructors are department, JCCGW Dance Director Bunnye professional dancers. Many not only perform in the community in local companies but Levey chooses independent teachers. choreograph, as well. Their works have been “Children become very attached to their performed at the Kennedy Center, the Clarice teacher. In hiring a company, you run the Smith Performing Arts Center at the University risk of instructors not being consistent,” of Maryland, Dance Place in New York and explains Bunnye. She thoughtfully selects even internationally. dance instructors who have been trained as dancers and dance educators. They must be JCCGW dance staff members have been experienced professionals, and they are not recognized both for teaching and for hired until they have been carefully observed. outstanding choreography. They have received awards from arts organizations and from the Many of the JCCGW dance instructors teach or State of Maryland. Bunnye herself, who has have taught at such well-known studios as the an MA in dance, has served on the Governor’s Knock on Wood Tap Studio, Dance Place, Joy of Panel for the Maryland State Arts Council. She Motion Dance Center, the Metropolitan Ballet, has taught and initiated programs at UCLA and the Maryland Youth Ballet, the University the University of Maryland. of Maryland and Catholic University. One instructor travels out of state to train teachers For more information about the JCCGW Dance how to teach dance through Wolf Trap’s School, please visit jccgw.org or contact Bunnye Levey at 301.348.3777 or blevey@jccgw.org. Institute for Early Learning through the Arts. In addition to extensive experience in
Tune in to Classical WETA’s Front Row Washington at 90.9 FM on Monday, November 4 at 9 p.m. to hear a broadcast of pianist Joseph Kalichstein’s recital recorded live at the JCCGW’s Kreeger Auditorium at the September 23, 2012 Polinger Artists of Excellence Series concert.
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.
Donate Your Fine Art and Support the JCCGW Do you have art that you no longer want to keep? The JCCGW’s Goldman Art Gallery is looking for donations—from fine art to folk art, Judaic or non-Judaic, modern to traditional, collectibles, paintings, limited edition prints, sculpture, and fine crafts—in good condition for Better Treasures, our annual art sale. (The next Better Treasures art sale will be held March 23-April 6, 2014.) Profits will
benefit future gallery shows and educational services in return for this contribution, making programming. it fully tax-deductible. The JCCGW does not have the ability to assess the value of your Art donations are accepted throughout the donation; please consult a tax professional. year. If you have artwork to donate, please bring it to the JCCGW front desk anytime the For more information about donating art to the Center is open. The JCCGW is a 501(c)(3) JCCGW or about the Better Treasures art sale, tax-exempt nonprofit organization as defined please contact Phyllis Altman at 301.348.3770 by the IRS. You will not receive any goods or or paltman@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.
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ADULTS & LIFELONG LEARNING
Selma Sweetbaum Senior Satellite Program Are you over 60 and looking to socialize, exercise and learn new things? Check out the Selma Sweetbaum Senior Satellite Program. We offer programs weekly at sites in Montgomery County and Prince George’s County. The programming is free; a donation of $5 is suggested for the delicious kosher lunch. For more information, contact Debbie Sokobin at 301.348.3760 or dsokobin@jccgw.org.
Everyone has fun at the Center’s senior adult programs!
Volunteer Spotlight on Jerilyn Schweitzer
With a number two pencil close at hand (or at ear), volunteer Jerilyn Schweitzer is always ready and willing to tackle any project.
department of the Humane Society of the ries and articles for the Center Scene and United States, a marketing agency and other publications. the National Institutes of Health. What are your volunteer activities Now I volunteer here at the JCCGW outside of the Center? and schlep my daughter around to her I’m currently doing some volunteer numerous activities. I live in Bethesda with writing for the Animal Welfare League my husband, daughter and four cats. We of Montgomery County. I have previously attend Beth Chai, the Greater Washington volunteered for Davis Library, the Marine Jewish Humanist Congregation, and my Conservation Institute, the Danya husband plays on the JCCGW summer Institute and the Animal Welfare League of Arlington. and fall co-ed softball leagues.
What is your association with the JCCGW? The JCCGW and I go way back. I was a camper here when I was a child, then later a counselor. My first job was here, as well, working with kids in the afterschool program. More recently, my own daughter attended Camp JCC. She’s not Please tell us a little about yourself. quite old enough to be a counselor yet, but I was born and raised in Silver Spring and we’ll see! attended John F. Kennedy High School. I majored in psychology at Cornell, earned I started volunteering in the communicaa Master’s degree in psychology at tions department at the Center this past George Mason University and worked summer. I wanted to keep my writing as a residential counselor helping the skills sharp and give back to a community mentally ill lead productive, independent that I’ve felt connected to for such a long lives in the community. Then I switched time. I come in twice a week, and I’ve gears and started my career as a freelance been fortunate to have had the opportuwriter, working in the public relations nity to write press releases, media advisoThis month, the Center Scene volunteer spotlight shines on Jerilyn Schweitzer, with deepest appreciation for her generosity in dedicating her time, talent and skills to the Center. To learn a little about Jerilyn’s background and association with the JCCGW, read on.
15 6125 Montrose Road • Rockville, MD 20852 • jccgw.org • 301.881.0100
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time? In my spare time, I create fused glass art pieces—Patti Fein-Cate from the JCCGW’s own FeinARTsy [the art and coffee shop located off of the lobby] is my teacher—and I like to read, mainly fiction and science fiction. Why is it important to you to donate your time and talents to the Center? The Center is such a special place that provides so much to so many. I couldn’t think of a better place to volunteer or a more welcoming atmosphere in which to work. Everyone has been so gracious and so appreciative of the work I do!
NOVEMBER 2013
Toby Gottesman Receives Governor’s Certificate of Appreciation
Toby Gottesman, center, with Director of Senior Adult Services Debbie Sokobin and CEO Michael Feinstein, displays the certificate he received in recognition of his volunteer services at the Center.
Longtime JCCGW member Toby Gottesman received a Governor’s Certificate of Appreciation from the office of Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley for his volunteer activities at the Center. Toby created and facilitates the JCCGW men’s discussion group. “The men’s discussion group has filled a void for so many men in the community, and now they feel connected to the Center and each other in ways they may not have previously,” said Debbie Sokobin, director of senior adult services. Debbie nominated Toby for a Governor’s
Service Award based on the impact the express his views. Topics for discussion, men’s discussion group has had on the which are guided by group interest, have included religion, politics and marriage participants. and divorce. Toby started the group in March 2012, when he noticed that many men who The discussion group started by Toby came to exercise at the Health & Fitness has produced outgrowths, as well. Men Center were staying to socialize. His goal from the group have formed a chess club was to provide an outlet for them to share and a memoir writing group. They have opinions and camaraderie. While men arranged to go out for dinner together and of all ages are welcome, many of the begun working out together at the Health group members are retired or widowed & Fitness Center. They have attended an and entering a new stage of life. The art exhibit at the Ratner Museum and a group provides them an opportunity to Washington Nationals baseball game. develop and maintain relationships, an In addition, they have hosted lectures endeavor that becomes much harder after by a nutritionist, a financial planning retirement when isolation becomes a risk. professional and a urologist. What began as a weekly meeting has become so popular that the group now In addition to earning the Certificate of Appreciation, Toby received a letter from meets twice a week. the governor, his name has been posted “Toby must have been a social worker on the governor’s website, and he will in a previous life,” jokes Debbie. “He receive future invitations to volunteer has created an environment where activities such as the Governor’s Volunteer guys are eager to share and listen and Appreciation Day at the Maryland State learn from one another.” Toby asks that Fair. group members respect the privacy of others’ thoughts, feelings and concerns For more information about the men’s by keeping them confidential, and that discussion group, please contact Toby at everyone in the group has a chance to 301.530.7777 or tgottesman@yahoo.com.
Volunteer Opportunities The JCCGW has openings for volunteers on a regular or as-needed basis in the Kass Judaic Library weekdays, evenings and Sundays. You must have knowledge of the computer and attend a training session before volunteering in this area. We also need Goldman Art Gallery greeters for the ARTsy Holiday
Boutique & Craft Show that runs from October 20-November 5 and November 19-December 4. To volunteer or for more information, please contact Gloria Derkay at 301.348.3740 or gderkay@jccgw.org.
If as Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel stated, “Happiness may be defined as the certainty of being needed,” then Kass Judaic Library Volunteer Sam Niedzviecki (above) should be ecstatic! The JCCGW deeply appreciates the efforts of Sam, and all those who devote their time, energy and skills to support the Center.
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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. The following list reflects gifts received from August 30 through October 16.
CAMP Barbara Cohen and Walter Shorr Memorial Fund for Camp Scholarships and Israel Initiatives • in memory of Rita Margolis by Lissa and Andy Shorr 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 memory of the yahrzeit for Julie Brophy, mother of Kate and Robert Friedman by Jennifer, Rita and Richard Helgeson • in honor of Dr. Lawrence F. Cohen by Rita, Richard and Jennifer Helgeson • in honor of Dr. Robert and Adrienne Camps by Rita, Richard and Jennifer Helgeson • in memory of the yahrzeit for Maurice Weiss on November 15th, maternal great uncle of Andrew by Rita, Richard and Jennifer Helgeson Jane Hulman Camp Scholarship Fund • in memory of Charlotte Resnick by Jerry Hulman CHILDREN & FAMILY SERVICES Brett, Olin, Sanger and Shesser Family Endowment Fund for Children in Need • in honor of Susan and Dr. Robert Shesser by Madeline and Arthur Shesser CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS Marc Goodman Memorial Endowment Fund for Sports Activities for Children • in memory of John Johnson by Leslie and Eddie Shear Eva and Simon Resnek Endowment for Children’s Scholarships • in memory of Richard Rausch by the Meyerstein/Lande family CULTURAL ARTS Vera and Ralph Deckelbaum Music Endowment Fund • in memory of Rita Margolis by Vera and Ralph Deckelbaum • in memory of Anne Solotar Siegel by Vera and Ralph Deckelbaum • in memory of Alyson Pilzer by Vera and Ralph Deckelbaum • in memory of Brooks Reese by Vera and Ralph Deckelbaum • in honor of Randy Reiner’s speedy recovery by Vera and Ralph Deckelbaum • in honor of Bern Segerman’s speedy recovery by Vera and Ralph Deckelbaum • in honor of Harriet Rabin’s special birthday by Vera and Ralph Deckelbaum
CONTRIBUTIONS EARLY CHILDHOOD Lee and Isidore Forman Endowment Fund • in honor of Sherry Feldman’s special birthday by Carole and Barry Forman Abraham and Anna L. Shulman Child Day Care Fund • in memory of Edith Hoffman by Roberta and Lawrence Shulman • in honor of May Savage’s birthday by Cindy Savage GENERAL SUPPORT Annual Fund • in memory of Rita Margolis by Ruth Carski; Suzanne and Michael Feinstein; Jodi and Mark Shulimson • in memory of Edythe Bloom Hoffman by Goodman-Gable-Gould/Adjusters International • in memory of Gerda Erman by Marianne Liebermann • in memory of Sumner Bert Chansky by Elisha Freedman Rose and Louis Sohinki Endowment for Staff Development • in memory of Dave Dale by Jo and Arnie Sohinki JEWISH FAMILY LIVING & LEARNING Sklar Zuckerman Endowment Fund to Promote Ahavat Yisrael • in honor of Noah Irving Zuckerman by Roz and Chuck Landy SENIOR ADULTS Selma Sweetbaum Senior Satellite Program • in honor of Gladys Follender by Sharyn Fuchs • in honor of Lee Greenwald’s special birthday by Gladys Follender Sweetbaum Family Endowment Fund for Senior Adult Programs • in memory of Rita Margolis by Debbie Sokobin • in honor of Toby Gottesman’s new grandson by Debbie Sokobin • in honor of Sharla Neuberger on her birthday by Selma and Harvey Sweetbaum SPECIAL NEEDS Lee and Ellen Burstyn Family Fund for Campers with Disabilities • in honor of Brian Feldman’s appointment to Maryland Senate - District 15 by Ellen and Lee Burstyn Dinner of Champions • in honor of Fran and Joe Silverman’s 50th anniversary by Ellie and Larry Alpert • in honor of Fran and Joe Silverman’s 50th anniversary and special birthday by Estelle Cohen • in honor of Heather and Andrew Sachs by Deborah and Cliff White; Cindy and Richard Zitelman • in honor of Jeffrey Slavin by Vera and Ralph Deckelbaum; Cindy and Richard Zitelman
Alma and Joseph B. Gildenhorn Endowment for Children with Special Needs • in memory of Alyson Pilzer by Alma and Joseph Gildenhorn Goldberg Goldman Endowment for Sports Activities for Children with Special Needs • in memory of Marvin Waghelstein by Barbara Goldberg Goldman and Michael Goldman Celia and Fred S. Kogod Endowment Fund for Special Needs Children • in memory of Mildred Kogod Sternburg by Lauren, Fred, Sam and David Sternburg • in memory of Elliott Burka by Lauren and Fred Kogod Sternburg • in honor of Jeffrey Slavin by Lauren, Fred, Sam and David Sternburg • in honor of Joe Yasharoff by Lauren, Fred, Sam and David Sternburg • in honor of Josh Fried by Lauren, Fred, Sam and David Sternburg Hyman M. and Phillip D. Perlo Endowment Fund for Children with Special Needs • in honor of Matthew Kurman, 2003 Perlo Award recipient by Patricia Hoff and Michael Kurman Special Needs and Inclusion Programs • in memory of Rita Margolis by Lynn and Michael Gittleson; Debra and Adam Goldstein and family; Kathy Sklar • in honor of Marcia and Bob Karp’s 50th wedding anniversary by Carol Oreskovic Joseph and Edith Weisz Family Endowment to Benefit Children with Special Needs • in memory of Rita Margolis by Helene Weisz and Richard Lieberman
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 17 6125 Montrose Road • Rockville, MD 20852 • jccgw.org • 301.881.0100
center
NOVEMBER 2013
UPCOMING EVENTS
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1
9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. MCPS Kid Koverage. 301.348.3889 12 p.m. New Friends, a group for widows and widowers. 301.348.3760
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 3
10 a.m.-12 p.m. Books & Fellowship for Jewish singles age 45+. Book selection: “The Dovekeepers” by Alice Hoffman. 301.348.3816
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 4
9 p.m. WETA broadcast of pianist Joseph Kalichstein’s recital recorded live at the JCCGW on September 23, 2012 (page 14)
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5
9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. JDS Kid Koverage. 301.348.3889 7 p.m. Concert: Celtic Aire Folk Quartet (page 13)
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 7
3-5 p.m. (by appointment) Free Running Clinic (page 12)
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 8
7:30 p.m. Bel Cantanti Opera presents “Rachmaninoff: A Concert of Song and Opera.” Tickets sold at the door and online at www.belcantanti.com. For more information, call 240.230.7372.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 18
10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Coming of Age meets at Ring House for exercise, table talk, lunch and musical entertainment by Take Two. 301.348.3832. 7-8:30 p.m. Lecture: “Parenting with Confidence” (page 7)
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 19
7 p.m. Jewish Book Club: “The Wanting” by Michael Lavigne. 301.348.3816
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21 1 p.m. JCCGW/Hadassah Book Club: “The Wanting” by Michael Lavigne. 301.348.3816 1:30-3:30 p.m. History Club meets at Ring House. 301.348.3760
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23 7 p.m. Dinner of Champions (pages 5-6)
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 24
10 a.m.-12 p.m. Books & Fellowship for Jewish singles age 45+: Discussion only of the DVD, “Skin.” 301.348.3816 2-4 p.m. ARTsy Chocolate & Gelt Reception in the Goldman Art Gallery (page 13)
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25
1-3 p.m. Coming of Age Movie & Munchies at the JCC. Movie: “The Galiliee Eskimos.” Discussion will follow. 301.348.3832
12:30-3:30 p.m. MCPS Kid Koverage. 301.348.3889 11 a.m. Hurwitz Internal Light Low Vision Support Group meets at Ring House. 301.348.3760
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 26
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12
12-3:30 p.m. JDS & MCPS Kid Koverage. 301.348.3889
12:30-3:30 p.m. MCPS Kid Koverage. 301.348.3889
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14
3 p.m. Coming of Age and JCCGW Book Festival event at Leisure World Clubhouse I with Ann Kirschner, author of “Lady at the O.K. Coral: The True Story of Josephine Marcus Earp.” 301.348.3832
7 p.m. Low Vision Support Group. Contact Anita Cohen at 301.299.7077. 7:30 p.m. 50+ Singles Group. 301.348.3760
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 27
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 28 Thanksgiving 7 a.m.-3 p.m. H&F hours Offices and Preschool are closed.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 4
5:30-7:30 p.m. JCCGW Chanukah Celebration (page 7)
WEEKLY ONGOING PROGRAMS
SUNDAYS 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Elie Ronen Scott Family Gym MONDAYS 7:15 p.m. Duplicate Bridge TUESDAYS 1 p.m. Women’s Discussion Group 1 p.m. Men’s Discussion Group 2:30 p.m. Chess WEDNESDAYS 10-10:30 a.m. Storytime Singalong. Age 5 and under with parent/caregiver 2:30 p.m. Men’s Discussion Group 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 Gwendolyn Coffield Community Center in Silver Spring THURSDAYS Har Tzeon Congregation in Silver Spring 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.
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Don’t Count the Days—
NOVEMBER 2013
Let the Days Count! Adult Day Programs offer enriched activities to older adults and caregiver support to families. Scholarships are available, but space is limited.
Call 301.468.1740. We help all seniors thrive! JCA serves men and women of all faiths, ethnicities and walks of life.
Jewish Council for the Aging® Headquarters/Ann L. Bronfman Center, 12320 Parklawn Drive, Rockville, MD 20852 301.255.4200 • 703.425.0999 • www.AccessJCA.org
Agency 8127
Agency 52847
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