November 2016
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Works of Camp JCC Alumna Featured in Goldman Art Gallery 2
CEO’s Message
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Support
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Health & Fitness
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Children, Youth & Camp
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Arts & Culture
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The Lessans Family Annual Book Festival
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Adults
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Tributes
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Upcoming Events
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Cover photo: Artist Mara Clawson (story, page 2)
Session 2 of fall classes starts mid-November. Browse and register at benderjccgw.org.
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CENTER STORY Former Camp JCC Camper Comes Full Circle with Her Art By Andrea Kronzek
hundreds of applicants, to win the Kennedy Center’s 2016 VSA Emerging Young Artists Program. Mara’s award-winning video “To Survive” is part of the Kennedy Center VSA’s touring national exhibition, which returns to the Kennedy Center in September 2017. Inspired by the colors and beauty that she sees in the world around her, Mara uses soft and oil pastels to bring to life her compelling compositions of people, animals and food. She believes that her art comes from her heart. This emotional and honest attitude towards creating art is visible in each of her pieces. Mara has recently reinvented her art-making process by drawing on an iPad, which allows her creativity to flow and new concepts to emerge. This technology also permits others to watch Mara’s artistic process in time-lapse. Mara has Familial Dysautonomia, a rare neurogenetic disorder that affects balance, vision, involuntary actions such as swallowing, breathing, production of tears, and the regulation of blood pressure, heart rate and body temperature. It also affects the sensory nervous system, impairing sensitivity to pain, heat and cold. Then and Now: The top photo, taken in 2004 at the Camp JCC art show held at the conclusion of the session, is of Mara and her counselor Elyse Paine Gabay posing in front of two of Mara’s earliest works. On the bottom is a recent photo of Mara with the framed work, “A Good Strike,” adorning a wall in her home. Mara and her family are still close with Elyse, who is now a pediatric registered nurse. Mara feels like a surrogate aunt to Elyse’s three sons.
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Bender JCC’s Dinner of Champions. The event supports our nationally-recognized Camp JCC inclusion program, bringing children of all abilities and backgrounds together for a summer of fun, socialization and growth.
How fitting, then, that Mara Clawson, the artist whose work is featured in the Goldman Art Gallery exhibit that opens this month, is an alumna of Camp JCC. Mara’s works have been featured in several solo and juried exhibitions. She was recently named as one of 15 visual artists, out of
CENTER SCENE EDITORIAL STAFF Treva Bustow, Chief Marketing Officer | Mauricio Garcia, Production Artist/Design | Andrea Kronzek, Editor
Michelle and her husband Lance Clawson have had to find schools and programs that could support their daughter’s needs; many places could not do that. Continued on page 4
ALL ARE WELCOME
For information on advertising in Center Scene, please contact Treva Bustow at 301.348.3750 or tbustow@benderjccgw.org.
The Bender JCC embraces and welcomes the diversity of our community and encourages everyone to seek meaning and fulfillment by participating in our rich programming inspired by our Jewish heritage. We open our doors to everyone, including people of all backgrounds, religions, abilities and sexual orientations, and interfaith couples and families.
Center Scene assumes no responsibility for the kashrut status of products advertised.
Inclusion permeates our Center. Inclusion is belonging.
Center Scene, the magazine of the Bender Jewish Community Center of Greater Washington, is issued monthly from September through June. The Center is a member of the Jewish Community Centers Association of North America, a beneficiary agency of The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington, and receives support from the United Way and Combined Federal Campaigns.
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Michelle Marks, Mara’s mother, says that while Mara’s health issues are of great concern, they do not define who she is. “Mara is my ray of sunshine,” Michelle comments. “She teaches me to see the world through her eyes, seeing the good and beauty all around us.”
6125 Montrose Road • Rockville, MD 20852 • benderjccgw.org • 301.881.0100
LEADERSHIP OFFICERS Felicia K. Gottdenker, Chair of the Board of Directors Heidi Hookman Brodsky, Chair-Elect Helen Rubin, Administration/Finance Chair & Treasurer Arthur Polott, Development Chair Adam Polsky, Membership & Programming Chair Holli Beckerman Jaffe, Governance Chair Neil Gurvitch, General Counsel Andrew Chod, Secretary Brian Gaines, Assistant Secretary Matthew Weinberg, Assistant Treasurer Lisa Gunty, Ombudsperson IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Bradley C. Stillman BOARD OF DIRECTORS Brent Berger, MD Randi K. Meyrowitz Mindy Berger Jill Myers Robert I. Black Candace Ourisman Nathan Bortnick Tracy Bloom Schwartz Andrew Bridge Reed Sexter Elana Fine Andrew P. Shulman Brett Friedman Dale Singer Samuel Gallo Maurice “Mac” Ron Gorfinkel VerStandig Toby Gottesman The Honorable Jeff Meredith Jacobs Waldstreicher Rami Kandel Sharon Zissman COUNCIL OF ADVISORS Daniel H. Abramowitz Michael Smith Liss David S. Bender Lawrence Mann Stuart Bindeman Alan Meltzer Dean Eisen Pamela Nadell, PhD Bernard Forseter Robert Phillips Greg Friedman Howard Ross The Honorable Julie Silver Douglas F. Gansler Kathy Sklar Toni Goodman Marc Solomon Eric Kassoff Robin Taub Michael Kay Michael E. Winer Mark Lerner Susan Zuckerman Jeffrey Linowes PAST PRESIDENTS Morris Cafritz z”l Steven D. Lustig Marcella E. Cohen Philip N. Margolius Scott M. Cohen Col. Benjamin Ourisman z”l The Honorable Sydney M. Polakoff Stuart E. Eizenstat Richard B. Reff, M.D. Barry P. Forman Leo Schlossberg z”l z”l Rosalie B. Gerber Burnett Siman z”l Michael S. Gildenhorn Beth C. Sloan Col. Julius Goldstein z”l Charles E. Smith z”l Simon Hirshman z”l Andrew M. Stern Lesley Israel Bradley C. Stillman Rosalyn Levy Jonas John D. VerStandig Edward H. Kaplan Bernard M. Weisz Joel S. Kaufman z”l Bernard S. White z”l Harry King z”l Morton H. Wilner z”l Fred Kogod z”l Donald E. Wolpe Robert P. Kogod z”l Samuel Lehrman of blessed memory Harry M. Linowes EXECUTIVE TEAM Michael Feinstein, Chief Executive Officer Treva Bustow, Chief Marketing Officer Debra L. Cooper, Chief Financial Officer Amy I. Gantz, Chief Operating Officer Tom Rogers, Human Resources Director Adam Tennen, Chief Development Officer EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR EMERITUS Robert H. Weiner z”l
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Gratitude Message from Michael Last month I had the opportunity to vacation in California and hiked in the Armstrong Redwoods State National Reserve, north of San Francisco. Redwoods are the tallest living things on the planet. The oldest tree in the reserve is estimated to be over 1,400 years old, stands over 300 feet tall and is over 14 feet in diameter. My first reaction was simply awe. I felt so small in the grand scheme of things. My second reaction was how grateful I felt to have this time with my wife in such a special place.
imagined. The Bender family, Smith/Kogod family, Sheila and Sy Herman, Ellen and Stuart Lessans and the State of Maryland have provided exceptionally generous support for this project, along with hundreds of other donors. We are now only $1.5 million from reaching our expanded fundraising goal and completing our biggest priorities.
Almost 18 months ago, we began to turn our vision into reality with the beginning of our first phase of construction. We are now working through the punch list to put the That hike and trip gave me Michael Feinstein, CEO finishing touches on the second the space to think more about phase. To date, we have renovated gratitude and the different ways it shows up our early childhood center, classrooms, in my life. Observant Jews say “modeh ani” studios, social hall, gallery, kitchen, locker upon waking every morning to thank our rooms and indoor pool. The third phase will Creator for another day. While I do appreciate include new playgrounds, a redesigned each day, it shouldn’t take a redwood tree to outdoor aquatics center and updating to our remind me of the opportunities and people lobby. There are not enough ways for me to that I am grateful for every day. In her book thank our building task force, chaired by the “Take Your Soul to Work,” Erica Brown writes indefatigable Andrew Chod and staffed by about gratitude that, “There is little that makes our Chief Operating Officer, Amy Gantz. This us more aware of the wonder in our lives than group has provided critical guidance and a sincere and heart-felt thank-you.” oversight in working with our architects and contractors. As we move toward completion of our Centennial Campaign and renovation, I can’t I also want to again thank to our entire staff and help but think about how grateful I am that our membership for demonstrating such patience Board of Directors gave me the opportunity and flexibility to enable us to undertake these to lead the Center through a process of major renovations while remaining open for envisioning a building that will serve our business. At times, this has felt like changing community for decades to come. When we the tire on a car while driving. With the help of began planning this effort over four years, ago many friends, we have managed to do it. it felt daunting. I had never been responsible for such a large fundraising effort. Together, I am closing in on eight years as the CEO our campaign leadership and staff have raised of our JCC. As Thanksgiving approaches, I more capital in a single campaign for the JCC am grateful to our board for its wisdom and than ever before in our 103-year history. To be guidance, to our staff for its commitment and dedication, and to our donors for their a part of this effort has been truly special. passion and support. It takes this entire I am incredibly thankful for the work of our team to identify and meet the needs of our leadership team and development staff, membership and community, and strengthen especially our campaign co-chairs Scott and our Jewish future. I am reminded of the words Jodi Cohen and Chief Development Officer, of Meister Eckhart, the 14th century German Adam Tennen. Most importantly, though, I am theologian, philosopher and mystic: “If the thankful to our donors who believed in our only prayer you say in your entire life is ‘thank vision for a 21st century center for Jewish life you,’ it will be enough.” that is quickly becoming the warm, welcoming and vibrant community destination that we
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Photo by Shmulik Almany
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CENTER STORY LEADERSHIP Through art, Mara has found a means to convey her feelings, ideas and understandings, and an important vehicle for connecting to and participating in the larger community. It’s a way for others to recognize Mara’s strengths and contributions so that her challenges do not define her.
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“When you meet the staff, counselors, and nurses at Camp JCC, they want to know everything about your child, and you feel like you can trust them to be there for your camper,” explains Michelle. “You breathe a sigh of relief and say, ‘Okay, I know that they will be looking out for her.’” Michelle says that it brought a sense of joy to see Mara feel so proud of her work and, At a 2004 Camp JCC art show at the eventually, to see Mara’s pride in her identity conclusion of Mara’s session, Michelle and as an artist. Lance marveled at some of the works that were displayed, only to later discover they Michelle and Lance believe that the had been created by Mara. experiences Mara had at Camp JCC and the skills she gained gave her self-confidence, “At that point, a light bulb switched on,” inspired her love for art, and provided her recalls Lance, as he and Michelle realized with a new avenue of communication. the depth and breadth of their daughter’s artistic talent. “In some ways it was a bit like “What Mara did at Camp JCC is very much when Mara first learned to communicate a reflection of what Mara’s adult life is with sign language. She gave us this look of becoming,” reports Lance. “She is taking relief that conveyed, ‘Finally, these people what she did at Camp JCC and recreating it understand me.’ It was as if the pastels for a career.” Mara works in her home studio opened up a whole new part of this person, and at Art Enables, an art-training program which was there just seeking a way out.”
in Washington, DC for individuals with developmental disabilities. “Everyone can be special,” Mara asserts, “because no one is perfect. Just be who you are. I want people to be happy, enjoy what they can. I never give up; I just keep on drawing.” Mara’s exhibit, “The World of Feelings: When Colors Get Along,” is featured in the Goldman Art Gallery from November 19 through December 18. For more information about the exhibit, please visit benderjccgw. org or contact Lisa Del Sesto at 301.348.3756 or ldelsesto@benderjccgw.org. For more information on the Dinner of Champions, which will be held on November 19, please visit benderjccgw.org/champions or contact Jodi Shulimson at 301.348.3769 or jshulimson@jccgw.org.
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Dinner of Champions Where every all-star is included
November 19, 2016
Unable to attend the Dinner of Champions? You can still support the Bender $25,000 $10,000 $5,000 $3,600 $1,800 JCC’s nationally-recognized camp$18,000 raffle tickets Tickets 24 12inclusion 10 program 6 by purchasing 4 2 for some including: Tribute Book amazing prizesLogo on Logo on Full page Half Page Quarter SPONSORSHIP LEVEL
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• Four Delta Sky360 Club tickets to a 2017 Washington Nationals Game Name Logo Logo Name Name Logo • Seasons 52 chef’s table tasting menu with wine pairings for 8 Website, Center Scene, Donor x x x x x x • Seasons 52 happy hour for 20 people newsletter • Disneyworld Park Hopper passes Closed circuit TV in lobby and x x x x x x • Tickets taping of NBC4’s Redskins Showtime starring fitness centerto(November 2016) Carol Maloney and Clinton Portis on December 8 x Banner in gym with name or logo x x x x •Name Group round of golf and lunch at Lakewood Country Club or logo on promotional banner x x x to hangand in fitness and lobby • Art winecenter basket • Premium Washington Wizards Video recognition x tickets x • Premium Washington Capitals tickets TABLES AND TICKETSTerrapins basketball tickets TRIBUTE BOOK Please send camera ready artwork to • Premium Maryland katya@jccgw.org by October 28, 2016. □ $2,500 Table For 10 $_______ • Dulles GolfTicket Center & Sports Parkofcorporate event □ $1,000 Gold Full Page Tribute or Ad 7.5 Hx4.25W $_______ □ $275 Individual _____Number tickets $_______ □ $150 Camp JCC Families _____Number of tickets $_______ □ $750 Silver Full Page Tribute or Ad 7.5 Hx4.25W $_______ Raffle prizes are subject to change without notice and may for3.75Hx4.25W cash or credit.$_______ Raffle prizes □not $500be Halfexchanged Page Tribute or Ad BANNERS (To hang in gymnasium for one year) over $600 are reportable to the IRS. Raffle tickets are not tax deductible. □ $350 Quarter Page Tribute or Ad3.75Hx2.25W $_______ □ $1,800 HALL OF FAME (Sponsor Banner - One Year) $_______ □ $100 Tribute Listing 100 characters—text only $_______ □ $1,000 HALL OF FAME—HALF BANNER (Sponsor Banner - One Year) $_______ Invitation recognition (confirm by Sept. 9)
You do not need to be present to win. Tickets are $50 each or five for $200 and can be TOTAL:$____________ Name: ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ purchased at benderjccgw.org/champions or by calling 301.348.3769. Company:_________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address: _________________________________________________________________________________________________________
City: _________________________________________________________ State: _____________ Zip: ____________________________ Jewish American Veterans Phone:___________________________________ Email: __________________________________________________________________ Memorial Rededication Your gift, less $85 per participant, is tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Sunday, November 13 | 1 p.m. □ My Check is enclosed, made payable to the Bender JCC of Greater Washington □ Please bill me □ Please charge my: □ VISA □ MC □ AMEX □ DISCOVER
Please join Number_________________________________________________________________________________________________ us for the rededication of a sculpture memorializing Credit Card Jewish American war veterans. Created by internationally-known Expiration Code _____________ Signature__________________________________ artist PhilipDate__________________________________ Ratner, the sculpture was donated to theSecurity Bender JCC byPlease Alexander and Ruth (both blessed memory) 2008. mail completed form Adler to: Bender JCCofDevelopment Department,in6125 Montrose Road, Rockville, MD 20852 The rededication will take place at the memorial site in front of the The general public, along with county and state dignitaries, Jewish Financial statements available upon request. Documents and information submitted under the Maryland Solicitations Act are also available, for the cost Bender JCC. Veterans (JWV) military personnel and representatives JWVupon Department of postage andMembers copies, fromof theJewish MarylandWar Secretary of State, State Post House,692, Annapolis MD 21401, 410-974-5534. A financial statementofis the available in written partnership theCommonwealth Bender JCC,of have the project request with from the Virginiaundertaken Office of Charitable and Regulatory Programs. are invited. A coffee reception will be held in the of Maryland, to enhance the grounds surrounding the sculpture with a Wall of lobby after the ceremony. For more details, contact Walter Gold at Honor and other features designed to honor the service of Jews walterlgold@aol.com. in the military.
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6125 Montrose Road, Rockville, MD 20852 www.jccgw.org/champions | 301.881.0100 B E N D E R J C C O F G R E AT E R W A S H I N G T O N
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HEALTH & FITNESS
Wine, Women & What’s Nu Wednesday, November 2 7:30-9 p.m. Held at B’nai Israel Congregation
Women are invited to get fit and feel fabulous as the Bender JCC fitness pros present a fitness demonstration and wellness talks at B’nai Israel Congregation. Held in partnership with the B’nai Israel Sisterhood, this event is free for B’nai Israel members, and $10 for all others. Register at bnaiisraelcong.org or contact Dawn Hubbard-Powell at 301.348.3891 or dhubbard-powell@benderjccgw.org.
Calling All Good Sports We are looking for athletes age 10-12 to compete in May at the Mid-Atlantic Junior Games, and athletes age 1316 to compete at the weeklong JCC Maccabi Games in August. Contact games@benderjccgw.org for more information. Teams include baseball, basketball, dance, ice hockey, lacrosse, soccer, swimming, tennis, track and more!
Cycle for Good Sunday, December 18 Spin your dreidel and your wheels at the Bender JCC as we once again participate in the annual Cycle for Good program. We will raise funds locally for the Interfaith Works Wilkins Avenue women’s shelter. Sign up to be a part of this unique, fun and meaningful way to celebrate Chanukah! The donation is $36. Register online at benderjccgw. org. For details, contact Dawn HubbardPowell at 301.348.3891 or dhubbardpowell@benderjccgw.org. Registration Codes 15818 to ride from 8-8:50 a.m. 15812 to ride from 9-9:50 a.m. 15811 to ride from 10-10:50 a.m. 15801 to support as a non-rider
An Afternoon in Music With Linda Tsan, Concert Pianist Sunday, December 4 | 2 p.m. Please join us in the warm and intimate setting of the Bender JCC’s Goldman Art Gallery for a concert presented by pianist Linda Tsan. This event is held through a partnership with Medstar Georgetown Movement Disorders Clinic, and sponsored by the Edmond J. Safra National Parkinson’s Foundation Wellness Initiative. Free; to reserve a seat, RSVP to Dawn Hubbard-Powell at 301.348.3891 or dhubbard-powell@ benderjccgw.org by November 22.
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Play, Learn, Laugh and Grow The next session of classes begins November 13. In addition to multisports, chess, karate, dance, art, and cooking, we are offering a new evening youth volleyball class and morning parent and tot gym classes. For details, contact Susan Fischer at 301.348.3892 or sfischer@benderjccgw.org. Register at benderjccgw.org.
6125 Montrose Road • Rockville, MD 20852 • benderjccgw.org • 301.881.0100
Eat, Sleep, Play The Bender JCC offers monthly clinics and workshops for adults in a variety of sports. Look for more information at benderjccgw.org or contact Anthony Hunter at 301.348.3852 or ahunter@ benderjccgw.org.
CHILDREN, YOUTH & CAMP Infant Safety: CPR and Babyproofing
A Jewish Journey Just for Moms
Wednesday, November 9 6-9 p.m.
Every Summer Has A Story CAMP JCC 2017
“Just close your eyes and Camp JCC 2017 will be here before you know it.”
Designed for expectant parents and for parents with babies up to one year, participants will become Red Cross certified in CPR for infants up to one year. They will also learn techniques for babyproofing the home. Register at benderjccgw.org (code 15713). For more information, please contact Caroline Cardullo at 301.348.3890 or ccardullo@benderjccgw.org.
Camp JCC 2017 Session 1 June 26–July 7 (no camp July 4) Session 2 July 10–21 Session 3 July 24–August 11 Summer Kids Club Aleph Week June 19–23 Bet Week August 14–18 Gimmel Week August 21–25
BENDER EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER
Open Houses for Prospective Parents
(pending approval of school calendar)
Applications
Tuesday, November 29 | 10 a.m. Thursday, December 15 | 10 a.m. Tuesday, January 24 | 10 a.m.
Returning 2016 Camp JCC campers November 11** – 22
To RSVP or for more information, please send an email to preschool@ benderjccgw.org.
Returning 2016 Camp JCC member* campers November 1** – 10
Bender JCC member* families new to Camp JCC November 23** – December 1 Open Applications December 2**
Winter Break Camp
*Must have family level membership in good standing for 12 consecutive months, including Summer 2017. **Applications can be submitted beginning 12 noon.
For more information, please call 301.348.3883 or send an email to campjcc@ benderjccgw.org.
benderjccgw.org/camp
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December 26-30 7 a.m.-6 p.m. If you can’t beat the cold over winter break, join your friends in the warmth of the Bender JCC for arts & crafts, sports, swimming and a field trip. Register per day, or attend all five days and save! For details, visit benderjccgw.org or contact Phil Liebson at 301.348.3880 or pliebson@ benderjccgw.org.
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Join moms from our JCC and around the county on a trip to Israel from June 25 through July 4, 2017. Visit the Wailing Wall and other sights, learn more about our Jewish heritage, and meet other interesting and fun women. The Jewish Women’s Renaissance Project (JWRP), in partnership with the Bender JCC, is offering this subsidized trip (You pay airfare and we pay for hotel, travel, entrance fees, etc.). Registration begins this month; space is limited. For details, visit jwrp.org or contact Ora Cohen Rosenfeld (301.348.3830 or orosenfeld@benderjccgw.org) or Susan Stillman (susan_stillman@ yahoo.com).
Parenting with Confidence Mondays, November 7 & 21 7:15-9 p.m. Join Dr. Kay Abrams for a two-part series on parenting challenges, designed for parents with children age 1 to 10 years. In the first session, learn tools that will allow you to parent with calm authority. After taking home your new strategies, the second session will allow you to bring your parenting challenges and learn to address them proactively, mindfully and with confidence. The fee for each session is $5 for members and $10 for the general public. Register at benderjccgw. org (codes 15556 and 15606). For more information, contact Lauren Dworkin at 301.348.3837 or ldworkin@ benderjccgw.org.
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ARTS & CULTURE NEW! Adult Jazz Dance Class
GOLDMAN ART GALLERY
Art that Touches the Heart
Tuesdays | 7:30-8:30 p.m. November 1-December 20
You’ve done for others all day long; now, do something FUN for yourself! Exercise, meet new friends and laugh…these are only some of the reasons you should enroll in our adult jazz dance class. Jazz is an exciting and evolving dance form full of rhythm, syncopation and passion. Class is taught by School of Dance Director Debbie Clark. Multiple registration options are available. Register at benderjccgw.org. For more information, contact Debbie Clark at 301.348.3777 or dclark@ benderjccgw.org.
ROCK PAPER SCISSOR
by Ronnie Spiewak October 20-November 16 Artist Reception: November 6 | 2 p.m. Ronnie Spiewak uses collage as a vehicle to express her ideas and emotions. The scissors and the Exacto blade are her paintbrushes, and paper is her pallet. She uses the calligraphy of foreign languages and Hebrew newsprint to symbolize dialogue, culture and timelessness. Ms. Spiewak’s work is inspired by nature, travel, words and people.
THE WORLD OF FEELINGS: WHEN COLORS GET ALONG “Cornfield” by Mara Clawson, an iPad drawing printed on metal
The Gildenhorn/Speisman Center for the Arts at the Bender JCC is proud to host meaningful exhibits revolving around Jewish experiences, identity and culture in the modern and warm setting of the Goldman Art Gallery. We gratefully acknowledge The Kaplan Family Foundation for their support. The exhibits are open when the Bender JCC is open. For more information, contact Lisa Del Sesto at 301.348.3756 or ldelsesto@ benderjccgw.org.
POLINGER ARTISTS OF EXCELLENCE CONCERT SERIES
Pacifica Quartet
Sunday, November 13 | 7:30 p.m.
by Mara Clawson November 19-December 18 Artist Reception: December 18 | 1 p.m. Mara Clawson discovered her love for drawing with pastels at Camp JCC in 2004, and has not stopped since. This show features over 30 of Mara’s colorful pastel and iPad drawings. The Kennedy Center recently awarded Mara a 2016 Emerging Young Artists with Disabilities award. Her video, “To Survive,” which is touring nationally, will be on view in the gallery during this exhibition. Mara says that she makes art because, “I like making people happy.” (For more information about Ms. Clawson, please see story on page 2.)
Read Now, Discuss Later Are you interested in joining a book group? The Hadassah/ Bender JCC group is always open to new members; join us! For information, contact Ellen Elow-Mintz at 301.897.2796 or ellenlovesbooks54@gmail.com. Thursday, November 17 | 1 p.m. “As Close to Us as Breathing” by Elizabeth Poliner Thursday, January 12 | 1 p.m. “Pumpkinflowers” by Matti Friedman
Recognized for its virtuosity, exuberant performance style, and often-daring repertory choices, the Grammy Award-winning Pacifica Quartet string quartet has gained international stature over the past two decades as one of the finest chamber ensembles performing. Tickets are $31 for individuals under age 40; $36 for individuals age 62+; and $41 for all others. For tickets, visit benderjccgw.org/ concerts or call the box office at 301.348.3872.
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Thursday, March 9 | 1 p.m. “Shylock is My Name” by Howard Jacobson Thursday, May 11 | 1 p.m. “Safekeeping” by Jassamyn Hope Thursday, June 15 | 1 p.m. “The Beauty Queen of Jerusalem” by Sarit Yishai-Levi
6125 Montrose Road • Rockville, MD 20852 • benderjccgw.org • 301.881.0100
NOVEMBER 3-13, 2016
Who tells your story? SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 6 JBook Community Read Event 12 p.m. Ms. Sara Levy’s Salon
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 10 10 a.m. Rabbi Jamie Korngold Sadie and Ori and the Blue Blanket
THREE EASY WAYS TO PURCHASE TICKETS • Online at benderjccgw.org/bookfestival • Box office: Open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m.-12 p.m., and one hour prior to each Book Festival event • Call the box office at 301.348.3805
2 p.m. Ronnie Spiewak Rock Paper Scissor Goldman Art Gallery Artist Talk
7 p.m. Kate Siegel and Crazy Jewish Mom Mother, Can You Not?
BOOK STORE HOURS DURING THE BOOK FESTIVAL Monday-Friday | 9-10 a.m. and 3-6 p.m. Sunday | 9 a.m.-9 p.m. And one hour before and after each Book Festival event
7 p.m. Cynthia Kaplan Shamash The Strangers We Became: Lessons in Exile from One of Iraq’s Last Jews
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13 10 a.m. Mike Silver Stars in the Ring: Jewish Champions in the Golden Age of Boxing
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8 Election Day
11:30 a.m. Neil Leifer Relentless: The Stories behind the Photographs
Tickets are now on sale.
5 p.m. Lauren Belfer And After the Fire MONDAY, NOVEMBER 7 10 a.m. Gayle Forman Leave Me
10 a.m.-3 p.m. Adult Coloring Book Workshop 12 p.m. John Yochelson Loving and Leaving Washington: Reflections on Public Service
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3 Opening Night Patrons Event 7:30 p.m. Yael Dayan Transitions
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 9 Mental Health Awareness Day
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4 12 p.m. Jonathan Rabb Among the Living
10 a.m. Claudia Kalb Andy Warhol was a Hoarder
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5 7:30 p.m. Story District (Preshow Reception at 6:30 p.m.)
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 11 11th Annual Book Club Brunch 10:30 a.m. Elizabeth Poliner As Close to Us as Breathing
12 p.m. Lisa F. Smith Girl Walks out of a Bar 7 p.m. Andrew Nagorski The Nazi Hunters
1 p.m. Anne Sebba Les Parisiennes: How the Women of Paris Lived, Loved and Died under Nazi Occupation 2nd Annual Herman Taube Memorial Program 5 p.m. Of Blessed Memory: Elie Weisel Remembered WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 16 Post Book Festival Event 7:30 p.m. Alona Frankel Girl: My Childhood and the Second World War
benderjccgw.org/bookfestival The Bender 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 Bender JCC 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 ADULT LIVING & LEARNING: IT’S ALL AT THE BENDER JCC!
Still Driving? Support Group Tuesdays, November 15-29 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Spreading Warmth As the weather turns cold, the Bender JCC will be collecting HATS, SCARVES, GLOVES and MITTENS for the shelters in our area from November 1 through December 15. The collection box will be in the lobby area during that time. Thank you for helping our efforts to support our community members who are in need. For more information about the project, please contact Stacy Katz Olivera at 301.348.3889 or solivera@ benderjccgw.org.
This group offers older adults the opportunity to talk about changes that take place with aging that may affect one’s ability to drive safely, and concerns of living without a car. Learn about available transportation options to help you remain mobile and put together a plan for the transition from driving. Free; to register or for more information, call Connect-A-Ride at 301.738.3252 or email ConnectARide@ AccessJCA.org.
No Pain, No Gain?
Tuesday, November 1 1-2:30 p.m. in the social hall Should you really live by the mantra “no pain, no gain” when it comes to exercise? Find out the answer from the experts at ProAction Physical Therapy. Topics include: • Understanding normal vs. “red flag” soreness and pain • Why exercising is critical for adults with arthritis • How to modify exercises when you have shoulder pain, back pain, etc. • Types of footwear that could reduce or eliminate pain • How physical therapy can help you Sponsored by the Bender JCC Men’s Club, this program is free and open to the public. For more information, please contact Debbie Sokobin at 301.348.3760 or dsokobin@benderjccgw.org.
A Klezmer Kind of Night Sunday, November 6 6 p.m. Cocktails | 7 p.m. Dinner & Concert The community is invited to join us for drinks, dinner and a freilach (festive) evening featuring a heartwarming, toe-tapping Klezmer concert presented by the Seth Kibel Quartet. Tickets (which include drinks, dinner, the concert and coffee) are $40 each. For more information, please contact Debbie Sokobin at 301.348.3760 or dsokobin@benderjccgw.org.
Register at benderjccgw.org.
Seth Kibel, one of the Mid-Atlantic’s premier woodwind specialists, will perform with his quartet at the Bender JCC.
BIBLICAL ARCHAEOLOGY FORUM
What Do Ancient Documents Tell Us About the People Who Lived At Hazor?
Presented by Professor Amnon Ben-Tor of The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, and director of excavations at Hazor
Monday, November 21 | 8 p.m. Reservations are not required. The lecture is free for high school students; $5 for residents of Charles E. Smith Life Communities, college students and co-sponsors; $8 for BASONOVA & Bender JCC members; and $10 for the general public. For more information, please contact BAF.JCCGW@gmail.com.
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6125 Montrose Road • Rockville, MD 20852 • benderjccgw.org • 301.881.0100
CONTRIBUTIONS Thank You for Your Support
Max Gruber Music Scholarship Fund • in memory of Rose Luski by Sylvia and David Gruber
The following list reflects gifts received from August 10 through October 7.
Lessans Family Annual Book Festival • in honor of Tracy Bloom Schwartz’s birthday by Harriet Schulman
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 honor of Rita Helgeson by Richard and Jennifer Helgeson • in honor of the upcoming marriage of Dr. Jennifer Helgeson and Lt. Stewart Latwin, proud parents Rita and Richard Helgeson and The Honorable Judge Joseph and Mrs. Barbara Latwin by Rita and Richard Helgeson • in memory of the yahrzeit for Julie Brophy, mother of Kate Friedman and mother-in-law of Robert Friedman by Jennifer, Rita and Richard Helgeson • in honor of Susan Reider’s birthday by Rita, Richard and Jennifer Helgeson • in memory of Dr. Lizel Charmaine Salmon by Rita, Richard and Jennifer Helgeson • in honor of Jory Harris-Blumenthal by Becky, Matt, Elijah, Noam and Ethan Price • in honor of Sydney Roberts by Joanna and Stacy Rabkin • in honor of Ilana Jach, Lindsay Finkelstein, Vivian Nguyen, Margaret Taylor, Deniz Umitli, Helen Shulman, Amy Fauber by Joanna and Stacy Rabkin • in honor of Alexa Edwards by Marci Possner • in honor of Coby Offer and Preston Bampoe-Addo by Noah Kaufmann and family • in honor of Shane Chazin and Isaac Betaharon by Timaron Chang and family • in honor of Nadya Bafitis by Rachel Freedman • in honor of Camila Serpas Landaverde, Malachi Thomas, Ashley Lobel, Michelle Eirhart, Kyle Stolove and Maria Claudia Garcia-Rada by Samara Cordell and family • in honor of Yonah Singer, Lidia Castillo, Trey Branch, Magnus Nuako, Deniz Umitli, Sydney Roberts by Samara Cordell and family • in honor of Amy Fauber, Lauren Olson, Kristin Brown, Gavin Bone, Juwan Belle, Jon Cohn, Courtney Neher, Deniz Umitli, Lindsay Finkelstein, Jake Chukran, Matthew Caramanico and Alexa Edwards by Samara Cordell and family • the Camp JCC staff by Lizzie and Jonathan Westin
Charles and Mary Oshinsky Memorial Fund for Dance Programs • in memory of Mary and Charles Oshinsky by Bernice and Joel Breslau • in honor of Jesse Barnett by Bernice and Joel Breslau • in honor of Jesse Barnett (great grandson of Mary and Charles Oshinsky) and his senior year as a BFA dance major at MMC by Sarah and Jim Barnett
Camp JCC Special Needs & Inclusion Program • in memory of David Kivitz by Sylvia Bass • in memory of Robert “Bob” Silberglied by Gail Ravnitzky Silberglied
SENIOR ADULTS Mary and Harry Harris Endowment Fund for Senior Adult Programs • in honor of Irene Drescher’s birthday by Vicki Jacobson • in honor of Bea Wattenberg’s birthday by Vicki Jacobson
To make a tribute gift, please visit benderjccgw.org/tribute or contact Katya at 301.348.3855 or katya@benderjccgw.org.
CHILDREN & FAMILIES Ida Forman Children’s Assistance Fund • in memory of Anne Wolfe by Howard and Elaine Forman
Jane L. and Robert H. Weiner Museum Endowment Fund • in memory of Robert H. Weiner by Judith Weisenfeld EARLY CHILDHOOD Bender Early Childhood Center • in memory of Sonya Mueller by Ellen and Stanley Albert • in honor of Dr. Robert Mendelsohn’s special birthday by Ellen and Stanley Albert • in honor of Yael Smith by Marsha and Steven Schjolberg • in honor of Martin Resnick’s special birthday by Ellen and Stanley Albert Marc Jeffrey Streidel Memorial Playground Fund • in memory of Irving Weinstein by Robin and Glenn Streidel GENERAL SUPPORT Annual Fund • in memory of David Kivitz by Theda and Sholom Shefferman • in memory of Phyllis Gardner by the Loren family • in honor of Michael Feinstein’s daughter’s engagement by Lisie and Michael Gottdenker • in memory of Arnie Miller’s mother by Tracy and Alan Schwartz • in honor of Tracy Bloom Schwartz’s special birthday by Fran Goldstein; Nanci Miller • in honor of Mandy Spiwak, Teddy Carroll and Ayanna Millett by Rachel Greenstone • in honor of Melanie Kent by Hannah Chernoff and family • in honor of Randy Greenberg’s special birthday by Tracy and Alan Schwartz JEWISH FAMILY LIVING & LEARNING Marcella and Neil Cohen Interfaith Endowment Fund • in honor of Keith Cohen’s marriage by Lisie and Michael Gottdenker
Alma and Joseph B. Gildenhorn Endowment for Children with Special Needs • in memory of Barbara Morowitz by Alma and Joe Gildenhorn • in honor of Dani Levinas’ birthday by Alma and Joe Gildenhorn Danny Rosenberg Memorial Endowment Fund for Kochavim and Children’s Music Programs • in memory of Danny Rosenberg by Allison Rosenberg Landerer and Michael Rosenberg Special Needs & Inclusion Program • in memory of David Kivitz by Marilyn Forrest • in honor of Heather Strauss and the Camp JCC inclusion staff by Preston, Karen and David Plous • in honor of Rene Blitz, Mercedes Ellis, Jason Eisen, Melanie Kent, Mararet Taylor, Lynn Broder and Ben Shemony by Lisa and Greg Galipeau • in honor of Leah Singman, Maddie Dahl, Michelle Eirhart, Kyle Stolove, Maria Claudia Garcia-Rada by Lisa and Greg Galipeau • in honor of Abby Landesman, Heather Strauss and Eva Cowen by Lisa and Greg Galipeau • in honor of Devorah Mehlman; Alyssa Miller, CJ Osuchukwu, Ali Barry, Aaron Ammerman and Lauren Gottfried by Mara and Glenn Zaiderman TEENS JCC Maccabi Games • in honor of Monty Yolles by Catherine Joyce and Ethan Steinberg
Donate your vehicle and support three agencies. • jewish Foundation for group Homes
Jewish Women’s Renaissance Project • in memory of Rita Margolis by Roberta and Keith Solit
• jewish community center of greater washington • jewish council for the aging
Rhoda Schoen Memorial Fund for Senior Art Enrichment • in memory of Rhoda Schoen by Marian and Arthur Daum Senior Adult Programs • in honor of Debbie Sokobin by Bender JCC Men’s Club
CULTURAL ARTS Arts & Culture Program • in honor of Tracy Bloom Schwartz’s special birthday by Dale and Andy Singer
Andrew M. Stern Past President’s Endowment Fund to Benefit Senior Adult Programming • in honor of the marriage of Alex Stern and Kaylie Gioioso by Roz Jonas
Nora Davenport Memorial Music Fund • in memory of Nora Davenport by Joanna Schlesinger Vera and Ralph Deckelbaum Music Endowment Fund • in honor of Tracy Bloom Schwartz’s birthday by Lori and Dean Hoyland
center scene
SPECIAL NEEDS Dinner of Champions • in honor of Jillian Copeland by Kathy and Jody Dreyfuss; Stefanie and Jeff Greenberg and family; Mark Jacobsen; Rachel Sullivan
Sweetbaum Family Endowment Fund for Senior Adult Programs • in memory of Betty Kline by Selma Sweetbaum
B E N D E R
J C C
O F
G R E AT E R
Contact Adam Tennen 240.283.6000 at 301.348.3815 or
atennen@benderjccgw.org www.car-j.org W A S H I N G T O N
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UPCOMING EVENTS TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 1
1-2:30 p.m. Exercise Seminar (page 10)
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8
7 a.m.-6 p.m. CESJDS & MCPS School Out Day. 301.348.3767 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Book Festival Adult WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 2 Coloring Workshop (page 9) 7:30-9 p.m. “Wine, Women & What’s Nu” 12 p.m. Book Festival: “Loving and at B’nai Israel Congregation (page 6) Leaving Washington” by John Yochelson (page 9)
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3
7:30 p.m. Book Festival Opening Night Patrons Event: “Transitions” by Yael Dayan (page 9)
1 p.m. Jewish American Veterans Memorial Dedication (page 5) 5 p.m. Book Festival: “Elie Weisel Remembered” (page 9) 7:30 p.m. Polinger Artists of Excellence Concert Series: Pacifica Quartet (page 8)
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 14
12-5 p.m. CESJDS & MCPS School Out Day. 301.348.3767
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 24 Thanksgiving 7 a.m.-3 p.m. H&F hours Offices & preschool closed
7:30 p.m. Book Festival event: Story District (preshow reception at 6:30 p.m.) (page 9)
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 29 1-2:30 p.m. Coming of Age concert of Yiddish, Hebrew, Russian and Klezmer 10 a.m. Bender Early Childhood Center Coming of Age excursion to American open house (page 7). music with Pinchas Zahavi, Mike Visionary Art Museum in Baltimore. Singer and Frieda Enoch at Temple Depart Bender JCC at 9 a.m.; depart WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 30 Beth Ami. $7. 301.348.3832 Leisure World at 9:30 a.m. $10 1:30-3:30 p.m. Coming of Age movie ticket/$20 transportation. 301.348.3832 matinee and discussion at Leisure 10 a.m. Book Festival: “Andy Warhol WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 16 World Clubhouse II: “The Midnight was a Hoarder” by Claudia Kalb 12:30-3 p.m. Coming of Age Food & Orchestra.” $7. 301.348.3832 (page 9) Fun at Matchbox restaurant. $25. 12 p.m. Book Festival: “Girl Walks Out of 301.348.3832 a Bar” by Lisa F. Smith (page 9) SUNDAY, DECEMBER 4 7:30 p.m. Literary Arts event: “Girl: My 6-9 p.m. Infant Safety workshop (page 7) 2 p.m. “An Afternoon in Music” with Childhood and the Second World 7 p.m. Book Festival: “The Nazi Hunters” pianist Linda Tsan (page 6) War” by Alona Frankel (page 9) by Andrew Nagorski (page 9)
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 6
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 10
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4
12 p.m. Book Festival: “Among the Living” by Jonathan Rabb (page 9) 12 p.m. New Friends, a social group for individuals age 60+. 301.348.3760
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 9
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 17
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 18
1 p.m. Hadassah/Bender JCC Book 12 p.m. Book Festival JBook community 10 a.m. Book Festival: “Sadie and Ori Group: “As Close to Us as Breathing” and the Blue Blanket” by Rabbi Jamie read event: Ms. Sara Levy’s Salon by Elizabeth Poliner (page 8) Korngold (page 9) (page 9) 1-2:30 p.m. Coming of Age concert and 2 p.m. Book Festival Goldman Art Gallery 12:30-6 p.m. MCPS School Out Day lecture with Seth Kibel and Daryl 7 p.m. Book Festival: “Mother, Can You artist talk: “Rock Paper Scissor” by Davis at Shaare Tefila in Olney. $7. Not?” with Kate Siegel and Crazy Ronnie Spiewak (page 9) 301.348.3832 Jewish Mom (page 9) 5 p.m. Book Festival: “And After the Fire” 1:30-3 p.m. History Club. 301.348.3760 by Lauren Belfer (page 9) FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 11 6 p.m. Klezmer Concert, Cocktails and SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 19 10:30 a.m. Book Festival Book Club Dinner (page 10) Goldman Art Gallery Exhibit opens and Brunch: “As Close to Us as Breathing” runs through December 18: “The by Elizabeth Poliner (page 9) MONDAY, NOVEMBER 7 World of Feelings: When Colors Get 12:30-6 p.m. MCPS School Out Day 7 a.m.-6 p.m. MCPS School Out Day. Along” by Mara Clawson (page 8) 301.348.3767 7 p.m. Dinner of Champions (page 5) SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13 10 a.m. Book Festival: “Leave Me” by 10 a.m. Book Festival: “Stars in the Gayle Forman (page 9) MONDAY, NOVEMBER 21 Ring” by Mike Silver (page 9) 7 p.m. Book Festival: “The Strangers We 7:15-9 p.m. Parenting Workshop (page 7) Became” by Cynthia Kaplan Shamash 11:30 a.m. Book Festival: “Relentless” by 8 p.m. Biblical Archaeology Forum Neil Leifer (page 9) (page 9) (page 10) 7:15-9 p.m. Parenting Workshop (page 7) 1 p.m. Book Festival: “Les Parisiennes” by Anne Sebba (page 9)
SELMA SWEETBAUM SENIOR SATELLITE PROGRAM 301.348.3760
MONDAYS
Tuesdays Bender JCC in Rockville
TUESDAYS
2nd & 4th Wednesday of Each Month Har Tzeon Congregation in Wheaton Thursdays Har Tzeon Congregation in Wheaton
Cycle for Good (page 6)
HEALTH & FITNESS HOURS Monday-Thursday 5:30 a.m.-10:00 p.m. Friday 5:30 a.m.-8:00 p.m. Saturday 7:00 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Sunday 7:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. The building closes ½ hour after the H&F Department closes.
WEEKLY ONGOING PROGRAMS
Mondays Temple Solel in Bowie
1st & 3rd Wednesday Of Each Month Young Israel Shomrei Emunah Congregation in Silver Spring
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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 23
11 a.m. Women’s Connections 1-2:30 p.m. Senior Chorus/Song Circle 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 2:15 p.m. Men’s Discussion Group
6125 Montrose Road • Rockville, MD 20852 • benderjccgw.org • 301.881.0100
THURSDAYS
1 p.m. Scrabble 3 p.m. Drop-in Discussion in Hebrew
FRIDAYS
10-11 a.m. Shabbat Shalom Age 6 mos.-3 yrs. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Chess