OCTOBER MAY 2014
October 2014
A NEW BREED OF FARMERS MARKETS Mitch Berliner and Debbie Moser (cover photo) Page 2
MUSIC, MOVIES & MUNCHIES
The Lessans Family Annual Book Festival Pages 14-15
WE WANT YOUR OPINION
ABOUT CENTER SCENE MAGAZINE Please visit jccgw.org/survey, complete the form on page 4, or pick up a survey at the front desk. Those who complete the survey will have a chance to win a gift card!
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STORY
Why Is This Farmers Market Different from All Others? By Andrea Kronzek
The mission is to not only offer a best-in-class market where patrons can shop for their weekly food needs, but to also make it a village square, a community gathering place with special events, live music, kids’ activities, seating areas to enjoy food on the premises, and chef demos, among other activities. “We also wanted to be as inclusive as possible, so we are the only farmers market that offers local, natural and kosher-certified items for sale,” Mitch states.
Mitch Berliner and Debbie Moser have harvested a new breed of farmers markets. The thought of a farmers market might evoke the image of a collection of stands where farmers gather to sell fruits, vegetables, meats and sometimes prepared foods directly to consumers. At Central Farm Markets, one will find all of that. More than 100 regional farmers, food producers and artists come to their market locations every weekend, providing area residents with the freshest local produce, meat, seafood, dairy, baked goods and more. But Debbie Moser and Mitch Berliner, who are married, have cultivated a whole new meaning for the concept of farm markets. To fill a void for top-notch comprehensive markets in the DC metro area, they founded Central Farm Markets. The Bethesda market opened in 2008, followed by a market in Rockville two years later and one in Fairfax this season. “I was tired of going downtown to shop at farm markets for myself, so when I sold my specialty food distribution company, I thought I would start this endeavor,” Mitch explains. “It has become our ‘retirement project’ that got out of control!”
Both Debbie and Mitch have long associations with the JCCGW. As a child, Debbie was one of the first in a group of teens to volunteer at the Center the year that it opened in Rockville. When she was executive director at VisArts several years ago, she partnered with the JCCGW to implement after-school arts programs there. Her son Adam attended the JCCGW’s teen travel program and her son Gregg was a counselor in the Camp JCC inclusion program. Mitch has been a Center member for three decades, and has served on the board of directors. During his regular swim workouts here, he fantasizes about someday participating in the Maccabiah Games in Israel as a master swimmer in the freestyle event. “Who knows? Maybe it will happen…” he muses. Debbie and Mitch have been active at the Center in many ways, including having served as a host family for the JCC Maccabi Games when they were held here and being involved in various capital campaigns. This year, they are among the supporters of next month’s Lessans Family Annual Book Festival. “The JCCGW is of paramount importance because it is inclusive to all. Its programs are wide reaching, from the cerebral to the cultural to the physical,” Mitch reflects. “The thing that really puts a smile on my face every time I enter the building is seeing the laughter of the small children.”
L’Shana Tova
The JCC of Greater Washington wishes you and your family a happy, healthy and sweet New Year. 2
6125 Montrose Road • Rockville, MD 20852 • jccgw.org • 301.881.0100
In other community involvement, Mitch has twice co-chaired Super Sunday, The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington’s annual fundraising event. He and Debbie are active with the Jewish National Fund, American Committee for the Weizmann Institute, and the metro DC area food banks — Manna Food Center, Capital Area Food Bank and Food for Others. When the markets close for the day, unsold produce is donated to area food banks. “It is a mitzvah to do good deeds, and it is the way we were raised,” Mitch reflects. “We feel blessed for all we have, so giving back is only natural.” To learn more about Center Farm Markets, including hours and locations, please visit centralfarmmarkets.com.
CENTER SCENE EDITORIAL STAFF Treva Bustow, Chief Marketing Officer Mauricio Garcia, Production Artist/Design Andrea Kronzek, Editor Center Scene, the magazine of the 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. For information on advertising in Center Scene, contact Rebecca Salzman at 301.348.3754 or rsalzman@jccgw.org. Center Scene assumes no responsibility for the kashrut status of products advertised.
ALL ARE WELCOME The JCCGW 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. Inclusion permeates our Center. Inclusion is belonging.
center OFFICERS Bradley C. Stillman, President Felicia K. Gottdenker, President-Elect Brian Pearlstein, Vice President for Administration/Treasurer Heidi Hookman Brodsky, Vice President for Development Mindy Berger, Vice President for Member & Guest Services
Arthur Polott, Vice President for Programming Neil Gurvitch, Vice President & General Counsel Matthew Weinberg, Secretary Andrew Chod, Assistant Secretary Darryl Shrock, Assistant Treasurer Monique Buckles, Ombudsperson EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Robert G. Epstein IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Scott M. Cohen BOARD OF DIRECTORS Gilly Arie Adam Polsky Brent Berger, MD Helen Rubin Robert I. Black Tracy Bloom Schwartz Nathan Bortnick Reed Sexter Andrew Bridge Andrew P. Shulman Brian Gaines Dale Singer Toby Gottesman Maurice VerStandig Amy Guberman David Waghelstein Holli Beckerman Jaffe The Honorable Jeff Randi K. Meyrowitz Waldstreicher Candace Ourisman Sharon Zissman COUNCIL OF ADVISORS Daniel H. Abramowitz Jeffrey Linowes David S. Bender Lawrence Mann Stuart Bindeman Alan Meltzer Dean Eisen Robert Phillips Bernard Forseter Pamela Nadell, PhD 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 PAST PRESIDENTS Harry M. Linowes 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 Rosalie B. Gerber z”l 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 John D. VerStandig Rosalyn Levy Jonas Bernard M. Weisz Edward H. Kaplan Bernard S. White z”l Joel S. Kaufman z”l Morton H. Wilner z”l Harry King z”l Donald E. Wolpe Fred Kogod z”l Robert P. Kogod z”l of blessed memory Samuel Lehrman EXECUTIVE TEAM Michael Feinstein, Chief Executive Officer Treva Bustow, Chief Marketing Officer Ruth E. Carski, Chief Financial Officer Tracey E. Dorfmann, Chief Program Officer Amy I. Gantz, Chief Operating Officer Adam Tennen, Chief Development Officer EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR EMERITUS Robert H. Weiner
OCTOBER 2014
LEADERSHIP
Future First
Message from Michael
I have a personal ritual to prepare myself for the To that end, the new year brings a new program, Arts Days of Awe, the ten days of introspection and Alive, which provides Jewish enrichment through teshuvah (repentance or turning back to God) from a wide range of arts to children in kindergarten Rosh Hashanah to Yom Kippur. Each through second grade (20 children year I re-read much of This is Real are already enrolled; see page 8 for and You are Completely Unprepared more about Arts Alive). Also on tap by Alan Lewz’l, who was known as is a second year of our successful the Zen Rabbi. He views this period PJ Library programs, which last year as a journey of self-discovery and welcomed 325 families to activities personal transformation. Each year in a variety of public spaces as well his message leads me to serious as at the Center. Our goal with these self-reflection, but completing the programs is to provide connections journey remains an aspiration. I also to community and help build Jewish look for additional readings to help identity through experiential and me on my journey. This year I’ve informal education. Our hope is that been reading a series of columns we are providing an entry point for Michael Feinstein, CEO by Jonathan Sacks, the former families who will seek to expand Chief Rabbi of the United Kingdom. I find him to be their involvement in Jewish life in ways that are a brilliant Jewish thought leader who has a special meaningful to them. ability to make his writing accessible and meaningful on a personal level. To help support our programs for all our young families as well as adults, we are also starting the In one of his Thoughts4Elul columns, he completely new year with our first rabbi on staff, Rabbi Elyssa challenged my thinking about the days of repentance. I Auster. Rabbi Elyssa has a very broad charge – have always approached this season by thinking about to enhance the “J” in JCC by infusing Jewish the past year – in what ways did I not measure up to traditions, wisdom and values throughout our my own expectation and how might I do better next program areas both directly and by working with our year. Rabbi Sacks explains that the days of repentance staff. She is already at work with our preschoolers begin with Rosh Hashanah, which does not include the and will soon be teaching parent enrichment and prayers related to confessing our sins of the past year. education programs. She will also be launching a He teaches that Rosh Hashanah is about the future new mindfulness series and Jewish yoga for adults. because “to mend the past, first you have to secure the future.” He points out that Jews survived every Building a better future does not obviate our need tragedy because they looked forward, not backward, to look back and make amends for the past. While and that “children are our deepest investment in the I have many personal apologies to make for both future.” While this idea of “future first” seems counter actions and inactions in my role as chief executive, intuitive, I am recalibrating my approach to the ten there are apologies to make on behalf of the Center. days by committing to the new year and then, through Undoubtedly, as an organization, we have made Yom Kippur, focusing on teshuvah. mistakes that have had a negative impact on our members, participants, volunteers, donors and With that in mind, I started wondering what it would staff by things we have done or should have done. look like to apply this concept at an organizational I know that there are times when we can respond level. When I think about our future, I immediately more quickly or communicate more frequently and think about our vision statement which describes our with greater clarity. Sometimes our policies have aspiration to be the “heart of our Jewish community, unanticipated negative consequences. Certainly, we playing a central role in reaching out to build a can take time to listen more patiently and go the extra welcoming, diverse and thriving community that mile to provide more personal customer service and enriches Jewish life for each generation.” A future make you feel more welcome and included. These first perspective would particularly focus resources are organizational sins for which I want to apologize on enriching Jewish life for families with young and ask for your forgiveness. My commitment is to children – the next generation. Beyond our preschool ensure that as an organization, we will do better and camp, core programs for any JCC, I have been in the coming year to appreciate your participation pushing us to take some risks to welcome and meet and support, be respectful and patient, communicate the needs of young families, many of whom are just better and provide you with exceptional service. On beginning to think about how Judaism will inform behalf of the Center, I wish you and your families their lives. L’shana tova U’metukah, a good and sweet year. Photo by Shmulik Almany
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BEHIND THE SCENES
A Relationship that’s in the Black In this article, JCCGW Board Member Rob Black tells The JCCGW programs that are the most meaningful us about his life, his family and his more than four to me are the Dinner of Champions, Camp JCC decade association with the Center. and the JCC Maccabi Games. My family and I got involved with Maccabi the year the JCCGW was Anyone who knows me will tell you that the JCCGW the host city. Roz and I volunteered for the food holds a special place in my family’s life! A few years committee, hosted four athletes at our home and I ago my wife Roz and I decided to downsize our home, coached boys’ basketball. Since then I have either and proximity to the “J” was high on the list of our coached or participated on the JCCGW’s Maccabi priorities. Our children, Jamie, Stacey and Mitchell, Games organizational committee. attended the Center’s preschool and day camp and I’m proud to say they each served as counselors at Every summer I tour Camp JCC, along with the Dinner camp JCC! of Champions Hall of Fame inductees, to witness the interaction between our campers with special needs My connection to the JCCGW started when I was 12, and our typically-developing campers. To me, it’s and I’ve been a member for the past 43 years! As a simply the greatest program we offer. Additionally, I teenager, I spent countless hours on the basketball try to attend a practice of each JCC Maccabi team court playing for Team Greater Washington! In those to personally thank the coaches, athletes and parents days, our basketball team travelled for competition. for their participation. And I’ve been known to pop One of the great highlights of my life was being into the games for a few days most summers! named the MVP of the 1977 national tournament, which was played in Houston. Professionally, I am an independent insurance broker with Arkin Youngentob Associates, LLC in Bethesda,
Please Tell Us What You Think
MD. I try to make a difference in my clients’ lives by ensuring they have the proper life, health, disability and long-term care insurance plans they need to provide for their families. Serving on the Center’s board gives me the opportunity to give back, on a volunteer basis, to an agency that has given so much to me, my family and to our community. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, sports and spending time with my growing family. Once my grandson Jack is big enough, I plan to be a fixture at the Center’s family gym time!
So that we can improve the way in which we share information with you through Center Scene, we would appreciate if you would complete this survey and mail it to us at Jewish Community Center of Greater Washington, 6125 Montrose Road, Rockville, MD, 20852 Attn: Survey. If you prefer to complete the survey electronically, please visit jccgw.org/survey. Once you have submitted the survey in either format, you can be entered into a raffle to receive an Aroma Espresso Bar gift card. Thank you!
1. The Center Scene is currently mailed to homes and is available online at jccgw.org. When you receive the Center Scene at your home, do you… □ Read it cover to cover! □ Skim it! □ Toss it! 2. How would you prefer to receive the Center Scene? (Please check all that apply.) □ By mail □ By email □ On the JCCGW website □ Social media 3. Would you consider helping us go “green” by receiving the Center Scene electronically only? □ Yes □ No If yes, please submit your name and email address here to opt out of the Center Scene mailing (will take effect with the December 2014 issue). ________________________________ ________________________________ 4. Would you pick up hard copies of the Center Scene at the JCCGW instead of having it mailed to you? □ Yes □ No
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This photo of Rob Black was taken at the JCCGW at the 1977 Jewish Welfare Board National Championship Team banquet (held in what was then the basement party room and now preschool. The inset is a more recent photo of Rob.
5. Currently, the Center Scene is mailed to homes monthly from September through June. What is the frequency that you would prefer the Center Scene to be issued? □ Every month from September through June (as it is currently) □ Bi-monthly (6 issues) □ Quarterly (4 issues) □ Never; prefer to receive electronically 6. If you read the Center Scene, what sections do you enjoy reading the most? (check all that apply) □ Features about members □ Features about board members □ Messages from Michael □ Information about JCC programs and events □ Calendar of upcoming events □ Staff features □ Other (Please list anything else that is currently included or that you would like to see included.)
________________________________ ________________________________ 7. How often do you visit our web site, jccgw.org? (Please check all that apply.) □ Daily □ Weekly □ Monthly □ Rarely □ Never
6125 Montrose Road • Rockville, MD 20852 • jccgw.org • 301.881.0100
8. When you go online, what do you use? (Please check all that apply.) □ Computer (desktop or laptop) □ Tablet □ Mobile phone 9. Additional Comments? ________________________________ ________________________________ ________________________________ ________________________________ If you would like to be entered in the raffle for an Aroma Espresso Bar gift card, please submit your contact information: ________________________________ Name ________________________________ Email ________________________________ Phone #
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OCTOBER 2014
SUPPORT
JCCGW Partners with Foundations to Assist Immigrant Seniors
Gateways students took a break from their studies for an end-of-semester celebration earlier this year. Front row, from left: Ida Kalnitskaya (standing), ESOL volunteer Ana Vaykhaska, Senior Adult Services Director Debbie Sokobin, instructor Vivian Gorden and Sofya Kuzmina. Back row, from left: Victor Tremblitsky, Alexander Zolotorevsky, Sarra Liberberg, Feliks Liberberg and Tamara Gibyanskaya.
The JCCGW introduced the Gateways program in 1993 to assist Russian-speaking refugees in their integration into American society. Offering English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes and related services, Gateways has now served more than 2,000 individuals and continues to assist immigrant seniors as they transition to life in America, helping them become more active, engaged and responsible citizens.
especially important for seniors who wish to remain independent and connected with the community. For many participants, the opportunity to socialize with their peers is another key program component.
For the 2014-2015 academic year, the JCCGW has been awarded two grants to support Gateways. Support from The Community Foundation for the National Capital Region and the Montgomery Coalition for Adult Each Tuesday and Thursday, more than 80 English Literacy will help the JCCGW build seniors, ranging in age from 60 to over 80 upon our existing program and continue to years old, attend one of six ESOL classes at provide assistance to vulnerable seniors. all levels of instruction, each of which is led by a highly-experienced volunteer instructor. For more information about Gateways, please Together, they improve their ability to read, contact Debbie Sokobin at 301.348.3760 or write and speak in English, skills that are dsokobin@jccgw.org.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22 7 p.m. CHAIRS Arlen and Brian Gaines Heather and Andrew Sachs IRENE AND ABE POLLIN HUMANITARIAN AWARD Michelle Freeman for the Carl M. Freeman Foundation SPORTS HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES Lyle Berlin • Lenny Bernstein • Bruce Lipka Rhea Schwartz • Michael Schwimer HYMAN M. AND PHILLIP D. PERLO HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETE AWARD Nicole Fleck • Adam Kaplan Hannah Ship • Harry Wandersman Robert Weinstein • Daniel Zuckerman
Funds raised through the Dinner of Champions support our nationally-recognized Camp JCC Inclusion Program, which brings children of all backgrounds and abilities together with typically-developing campers for a summer of fun, socialization and growth. Camp Kochavim, a transitional program for teens and young adults with special needs, provides campers with a fun and instructive summer camp experience. Together, we enable children, teens and young adults with special needs to build self-esteem, challenge themselves in a safe environment and develop lifelong friendships.
Michelle Freeman
Carl M. Freeman z”l
Sponsorship levels for the Dinner of Champions range from $100 to $10,000. Benefits include event tickets, sponsor banners, tribute book ads and more. We invite you to join the Carl M. Freeman Foundation, Heather and Andrew Sachs, the Bender Foundation, Inc., The Annette M. and Theodore N. Lerner Family Foundation and others in supporting the JCCGW’s vital special needs programs.
For the JCCGW, inclusiveness reflects our core value of respecting the dignity of every person Enter to win! Purchase raffle tickets online and the belief that every person is unique and at jccgw.org/champions for exciting prizes, of infinite value. including tickets to major sporting events and shows (one-in-a-lifetime opportunities!), Walt INAUGURAL JCC MACCABI With the generous support of our community in Disney World passes and more. You do not need LEGACY AWARD honoring these values, we are able to offer at to be present or a Maryland resident to win. Richard Reff, M.D. no additional cost a wonderful camp experience to children with a wide range of disabilities by For more information, please contact Jodi providing these services: Shulimson at jshulimson@jccgw.org or The Dinner of Champions honors those who • one-on-one counselor support 301.348.3769. have achieved success in the world of sports, • adaptive equipment Purchase tickets at and those who have made extraordinary • lift-equipped buses contributions to our community. • inclusion and sensitivity training for camp staff
jccgw.org/champions 5
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JEWISH FAMILY LIVING & LEARNING
BIBLICAL ARCHAEOLOGY FORUM
Hannibal’s Campaign Against Rome Presented by Linda Meiberg, University of Pennsylvania Thursday, October 23 | 8 p.m. The expansionist policies of the Romans on the Italic peninsula and the Carthaginians in the central Mediterranean culminated in the year 218 BCE in what came to be known as the Second Punic War. The Romans, however, regarded this 17-year engagement as the War Against Hannibal, since it was the sheer determination and audacity of this brilliant general that lead to a slew of defeats at the hands of the Carthaginians.
$6 for BAF benefactors, $8 for JCCGW and BASONOVA members, and $10 for the general public. Reservations are not required. For more information, please visit jccgw.org, send an email to In this lecture, Dr. Meiberg will discuss The fee is $5 for students and residents baf.jccgw@gmail.com or contact Debbie Hannibal’s campaign against Rome and of Charles E. Smith Life Communities, Sokobin at 301.348.3760. examine specific tactical considerations that contributed to Hannibal’s early victories in Italy at the Battles of Trebia, Lake Trasimene and Cannae.
SHORESH HEBREW HIGH SCHOOL
Connecting with Worldwide Jewish Issues
For JCCGW Members
Shoresh Hebrew High School is unique in its diversity of students and educators. Jewish teens from all over the Jewish religious spectrum meet to study, engage and debate Jewish text and issues that concern us all, such as supporting Israel, engaging with pro-Palestinian groups and the American response to the Middle East conflict.
to reflect on his or her feelings and beliefs and the corresponding Jewish values. This process leads to in-depth knowledge, critical thinking, a social encounter of minds and an opportunity to challenge beliefs and raise oneself to a higher level of thought, responsibility and action.
Educators serve as facilitators to such discussions and help in connecting them with Jewish text and Jewish values. Together, everyone has the opportunity
For more information about Shoresh, which meets weekly at the JCCGW, call 301.828.1912 or email ShoreshHebrewHigh@gmail.com.
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6125 Montrose Road • Rockville, MD 20852 • jccgw.org • 301.881.0100
Free On-Site Estimate and Unlimited Packing Supplies provided on the day of the move.
Commercial, Office, Residential, Local, Long Distance & Out of State
1-888-495-4951 www.495movers.com
OCTOBER 2014
Bringing Judaism into Daily Life at the Center by Rabbi Elyssa Auster
opportunity to have an evolving spiritual journey, I chose to study at the pluralistic Rabbinical School of Hebrew College in Newton, Mass. While in school, I served fantastic Jewish communities, including Congregation Or HaTzafon in Fairbanks, Alaska, and Congregation Beth El of Sudbury, Mass. Before recently moving to Maryland, I was the full-time rabbi at Temple Judea, in Southwest Florida. Last year, I was a fellow of CLAL’s Rabbis Without Borders. I am also an artist, tallit maker and certified yoga teacher. Rabbi Elyssa Auster recently joined the JCCGW as director of Jewish life. In this interview, we learn about her life and her thoughts on her new position.
What is a childhood memory that has impacted your life? A favorite childhood memory is opening the door for the prophet Elijah on Passover. My parents encouraged my sense of awe and wonder and taught me to talk with God. Halloween was also a favorite of mine as it was the one time of the year that everyone in the neighborhood would open their door and welcome the stranger. I still believe in opening my door to strangers.
into the tapestry of Judaism and bring added spiritual content to programs. Being a rabbi gives me the tools to access our tradition and connect our full and rich secular lives to an evolving and beautiful Judaism. It means that I can meet and welcome a whole variety of people – Jews of every background and nonJews – and develop relationships of peace and understanding. It means that I can offer a prayer, a connection to a living and vibrant Judaism, and give an ear to listen. It means that we can have Jewish Mindfulness through Jewish yoga What are some of your goals as director of and meditation, right here. I look forward to Jewish life? the innovation we can embrace and the openWhen I found out that the JCCGW was interested heartedness we can share in the coming year in hiring a rabbi as the director of Jewish life, I and beyond. was thrilled. Working at the JCC is a blessing and a wonderful fit for me. The staff is generous Rabbi Auster’s office is on the second floor, and good-spirited, and the atmosphere is alive adjacent to the Teen Center. She invites you to and diverse. Joining as director of Jewish life stop by to say hello, or feel free to contact her at means that I can help each department delve 301.348.3861 or eauster@jccgw.org.
Please tell us about your background. I began my schooling at the Orthodox, blackhat Hebrew Academy of Cleveland, while my parents, my older sister and I belonged to Opening a business deals with the Latin-related world is a great opportunity. Reform synagogue. I then went to Solomon Opening business deals with Latin-related world is aisgreat opportunity. Your money will grow higher than high. Join Green Light and reach the sky! Opening business deals withthe the Latin-related world a great opportunity. Schechter school and a Conservative synagogue Opening business deals higher with the Latin-related world isLight a great opportunity. Your money will grow than high. Join Green and reach the territory. sky! LearningYour Spanish will open doors, enrich your life, and conquer new money will grow higher than high. Join Green Light and reach the sky! Your money will grow than high. Join Green and reach theterritory. sky! and became a bat-mitzvah at Anshe Chesed Learning Spanish will higher open doors, enrich your life,Light and conquer new Learning Spanish will open doors, enrich your life, and conquer new territory. Learning Spanish will open doors, enrich your life, and conquer new territory. Fairmount Temple, a Reform synagogue, where my parents are still members and where I was married this past summer to another passionate clergyperson, Hazzan Matthew Klein. At Brandeis University, I majored in European Cultural Studies and Latin American Studies. I then entered graduate school and received a Master’s Degree in Theology from the Boston Your child will be climbing to the top! The best they make at school Your child will bewill climbing to the top!top! The best they make at school Yourcloser child will be climbing to the The best theyoffers make at school University School of Theology. While there, I the they be to the moon! Learning Spanish Your childthe will be climbing the top! The bestSpanish they make at school closer they will beto toto the moon! offers was deeply impacted by two courses I took with the closer they will be to the moon! Learning Spanish offers amazing opportunities meet newLearning friends and master at school! the closeramazing they will be to thetomoon! Learning Spanish offers opportunities meet new friends and at school! Professor Elie Wiesel. amazing opportunities to meet new friendsmaster and master at school! My first experience of pluralism was through an Israel trip with the Nesiya Institute when I was 15. It showed me the beauty and Jewishness of holding different opinions (after all, many of our traditional texts model respectful disagreement). For this reason, as well as desiring the space and
amazing opportunities meet newspoken friends and master at school! Spanish is thetosecond-most language in the USA. Spanish is theissecond-most spokenspoken language in the USA. Spanish the second-most language in the USA.
Contact us at: greenlightspanishluzverde@gmail.com Spanish is the second-most spokenare language the USA. Private group classes taught inin private homes and Contact us at:and greenlightspanishluzverde@gmail.com Mariela ZimmermanCell: 240-204-4783 at ourZimmermanoffice at 130 Cell: Rollins Avenue in Rockville. Mariela 240-204-4783
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CAMP, YOUTH, TWEENS & TEENS
New at the JCCGW!
Jewish Enrichment Through the Arts
Arts Alive
For children in grades K-2 Sundays, September 2014-May 2015 (26 sessions) 10 a.m.-12 p.m. September 14 marked the beginning of the new Arts Alive enrichment program at the JCCGW. Activities included singing led by musician Sally Heckelman, dancing, art and storytelling. Arts Alive is a merger of experiential education with an arts-inspired curriculum, fostering positive Jewish identity, nurturing a love for Jewish life and learning, and inspiring a passion for the arts from a young age. In a warm and welcoming environment, children from a variety of backgrounds come together each week to explore Jewish holidays, values, traditions, culture, Hebrew language, history, Torah and Israel, through
participating in a variety of arts activities that include art, music, dance, movement, drama, storytelling, cooking and more. This month, children will continue to focus on the Jewish holidays, participating in the JCCGW Sukkah Village program and learning about this special harvest holiday through movement, cooking, yoga, art, and Israelbased experiential learning. They will also begin their study of Torah with interactive storyteller Parsha Lady, and celebrate Simchat Torah with special guest artist and kleyzmer musician Seth Kibel, who will introduce a variety of instruments used to play traditional Jewish music.
Arts Alive Director Lisa Arber has worked for more than 30 years as a Jewish educator, program coordinator and arts specialist. She is excited to bring her unique approach to Jewish education to the JCCGW and looks forward to sharing her passion for Jewish life and learning with the families in the Arts Alive program. It is not too late to begin the next step of your child’s Jewish journey! To register, visit jccgw.org/artsalive. For more information, please contact Lisa at larber@jccgw.org.
CAMP JCC 2015 SESSIONS Session 1 June 22-July 2 (no camp Friday, July 3) Session 2 July 6-17 Session 3 July 20-August 7 PRIORITY APPLICATION DATES Returning 2014 Camp JCC member* campers October 23**-November 3 Returning 2014 Camp JCC campers November 4-12 New Camp JCC Member* Families November 13**-24 Open Applications – November 25 *Must have family level membership in good standing. **Applications can be submitted beginning at 12 noon.
SUMMER KIDS CLUB 2015 Aleph Week June 15-19 Bet Week August 10-14 Gimmel Week August 17-21 For more information, call 301.348.3883 or send an email to campjcc@jccgw.org.
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Celebrate
your child’s birthday at the JCC of Greater Washington
Saturdays & Sundays 10 a.m., 12 p.m., 2 p.m. & 4 p.m. JCCGW birthday parties are the perfect way to celebrate your child’s special day!
For details, send an email to birthdayparties@jccgw.org.
jccgw.org/bir thday
6125 Montrose Road • Rockville, MD 20852 • jccgw.org • 301.881.0100
Chapter meetings take place on Monday evenings from 7 to 8 p.m. at the JCCGW. All 8th-12th grade teens are welcome to attend our events. Events can be found through our website, bbyo.org/region/dc. Contact dcc@bbyo.org or 301.984.6073 for further information. Interested in volunteering? BBYO DC Council is looking for quality volunteer chapter advisors, both male and female! If you are 21+ and looking for a way to get involved with the DC metropolitan Jewish community, and looking to inspire and motivate future Jewish leaders of our community, please contact dcc@bbyo.org for more information about how you can do that!
OCTOBER 2014
Counselors Honored at Awards Ceremony especially since the award is named in memory of such an outstanding counselor. This year, my fifth year at camp, was the hardest, most rewarding, and most fun. I can’t put into words how great it felt to be recognized for the work I have done. Working with kids is what I want to do in my future, and getting this stamp of approval could not have been more humbling. I want to thank the Helgeson family and Camp JCC for this award.” Also receiving recognition at the ceremony were Matt Bernstein, Rebecca Bradley, Flanking photos of Andrew Helgeson at the Camp JCC Daniel Cohen, Gai Kaufman, Dylan Kapit, Joe awards ceremony in August, Gai Kaufman displays the Kappeler, Caleb Mairson, Elana Oser, Laura award that was presented to him by Andrew’s parents, Stall and David Thibeau. These counselors Richard and Rita Helgeson. were selected by their peers as winners of the Each year, Camp JCC recognizes its outstanding Dugma (exemplary example) Award for being staff through the R. Andrew Helgeson Heart of role models within their groups. Gold Recognition Program. Andrew was an exemplary young man who passed away in The Helgeson family has worked diligently 2005, just prior to his high school graduation, to keep Andrew’s memory alive by creating from sudden cardiac arrest. His kindness, the Richard Andrew Helgeson Memorial warmth, joy for life, and love for the campers at Foundation (see box) to educate the public about Sudden Cardiac Arrest and by supporting Camp JCC were remarkable. the Center’s effort to encourage excellence in To honor Andrew’s memory, his family counselors. established the R. Andrew Helgeson Heart of Gold Recognition Program which recognizes If you would like to recognize your child’s those counselors who exhibit outstanding counselors, please consider making a gift in effort and mirror his character. Recipients their honor to the R. Andrew Helgeson “Heart for this year were announced at an awards of Gold” Memorial Endowment Fund. This fund supports and perpetuates the R. Andrew ceremony in August. Helgeson Heart of Gold Recognition Program Summer 2014 recipients as chosen by the Camp for outstanding Camp JCC counselors. Each JCC leadership team are: Gai Kaufman (gold); honored staff member receives a personal Sarah Thibeau (silver); and Daniel Cohen, Trey notification of your tribute. Donated funds will be used to publicly recognize those staffers Branch and Lauren Alexander (bronze). selected as most outstanding. Gifts can On receiving the gold award, Gai Kaufman be made online at jccgw.org/donate, or by remarked, “Winning the R. Andrew Helgeson contacting Katya Pidgurskaya at 301.348.3855 Heart of Gold Award means the world to me, or katya@jccgw.org.
Message from Andrew’s father, Richard Helgeson: “The R. Andrew Helgeson Camp JCC Heart of Gold Counselor Awards are a source of great pride for us. It is a wonderful tribute that the counselors emulate Andrew’s exceptional qualities in a summer long program. The fact that such a well-received and highly sought award program is named in honor of Andrew is evidence to the fact that others saw in Andrew the special outstanding qualities that we, his family, always knew existed. Rita, Jennifer and I are privileged and honored to be able to present the awards and provide financial support through an endowment fund so that they always continue. We want to thank the parents who contribute to the fund, the counselors and staff of Camp JCC and the campers themselves who make it all worthwhile. Like Andrew said, ‘I can’t believe I get paid to have this much fun being a counselor.’ He loved Camp JCC.”
R. Andrew Helgesonz”l
Richard Andrew Helgeson Memorial Foundation Andrew passed away unexpectedly from Sudden Cardiac Arrest on May 25, 2005 at only 18 years old, just prior to his high school graduation. Andrew’s family established the Richard Andrew Helgeson Memorial Foundation to raise awareness of Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) in young people. SCA has been recognized since 1954 and continues to pose a threat to our young people; still, the medical profession knows little about the causes. The Foundation was successful in promoting and lobbying passage of a bill dubbed “Andrew’s Law” that was signed by then-Governor Robert Ehrlich on April 25, 2006. Andrew’s Law mandates the placement of AEDs (automated external defibrillator) in all Maryland high schools and at all school-sponsored sporting events to protect children, staff and visitors. In May of 2008, Governor Martin O’Malley signed a bill that he said was inspired by Andrew, that was an amendment to the Good Samaritan Law which clarifies that individuals shall not be held liable for using Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) to save victims. Governor O’Malley also declared May 25 as Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Day in Maryland in honor of Andrew.
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CHILDREN & FAMILIES
Learning and Growing as a Community By Ora Cohen Rosenfeld, Early Childhood Director
Sheva, the Hebrew word for the number seven, is a magical number in Judaism and appears often in Jewish literature and life. The Torah begins with the six days of creation and on the seventh day, God rested. Pharaoh’s dreams, in the story of Joseph and his brother, consisted of seven cows that represented seven years, and Joshua circled the walls of Jericho before they came tumbling down. A bride circles her husband-to-be seven times in a Jewish wedding and seven blessings are said under the wedding canopy.
The seven core elements of Sheva are: 1. Children as Constructivist Learners 2. Early Childhood Directors as Visionaries 3. Early Childhood Educators as Professionals 4. Families as Engaged Partners 5. Environments as Inspiration for Inquiry 6. Discover CATCH (Coordinated Approach to Children’s Health) as Sh’mirat HaGuf (taking care of our bodies) 7. Israel as the Story of the Jewish People
For the JCC Preschool, sheva is also an important number. Our preschool is now a Sheva Learning Community. Sheva, which represents the seven species of the Land of Israel, is the JCC Association’s (JCCA) signature program for early childhood centers. We have been on the ground floor for this early childhood initiative.
Sheva gives us another vehicle for learning and growing together as a community, with national support and recognition. Together, we will continue to explore the values that are most important to our school. We hope that families will join us on this Sheva journey as we strengthen our community through study and celebration.
Last April, I attended the JCCA Conference in Florida where the program was unveiled. After the conference, I joined a learning community with JCC directors across the country. Sheva values are in line with the values we have been dedicated to as a school and with which we work each year to make visible in our classrooms and in the hallways of our preschool. Sheva is an important part of moving our school forward and being a preschool which is recognized nationally for excellence in early childhood education.
JCCGW Preschool Open Houses Tuesday, October 21 | 10 a.m. Tuesday, November 18 | 10 a.m. Tuesday, December 16 | 10 a.m. For details, contact Ora Cohen Rosenfeld at 301.348.3830 or orosenfeld@jccgw.org.
PJ Library is a Jewish Family Living & Learning engagement program through which free, high-quality Jewish children’s literature and music are mailed to families monthly. The JCCGW makes PJ library come alive through activities for families with young children. For more information, visit jccgw.org/pjlibrary or contact Tracey Newman at 301.348.3848.
10 6125 Montrose Road • Rockville, MD 20852 • jccgw.org • 301.881.0100
OCTOBER 2014
Parenting with Confidence For parents with children ages 1 to 10 Would you like to raise your children with less exhaustion and greater confidence? Are you tired of resorting to threats, bribes and arguing? Join Dr. Kay Abrams for a two-part series as she introduces options for addressing your parenting challenges.
Session 1 Monday, October 6 | 7:15-9 p.m. $5 mem/$10 gen. public Code 13415
Session 2 Monday, November 17 | 7:15-9 p.m. $5 mem/$10 gen. public In the first session, you will learn concepts Code13388 and tools that will allow you to parent with calm authority. After taking home your new Register online at jccgw.org. For more strategies, our second motivating session information, please contact Lauren will allow you to bring your parenting Dworkin at 301.348.3837. challenges and learn to address them proactively, mindfully and with confidence.
Bubbie (and Zaydie) Bootcamp Tuesday, October 21 | 7-9 p.m.
Celebrate the Jewish Holidays with us! I am Sorry Day Explore the Yom Kippur holiday in a kid-friendly and musical way, in which the whole family can participate and find meaning. October 4, 2014 10-10:45 a.m. Musical Family Program 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Snacks and Crafts $80 family ticket-4 or more $30 per adult $15 per child (1-18 years) Free for infants under 1
Sukkah Village Making memories, supporting the new parents, and keeping your grandbaby safe are just a few of the topics discussed in this two-hour class designed to give you an opportunity to explore your wonderful, new role. Current trends in labor and delivery practices, infant care and feeding will be shared and taught by Holy Cross Registered Nurse Neva Powers. The fee is $5 for members and $10 for the general public (code 13628). Register online at jccgw.org. For more information, please contact Lauren Dworkin at 301.348.3837 or ldworkin@jccgw.org.
Grab a paintbrush and join our community celebration as we decorate, dance and eat in our sukkah village. October 5, 2014 10 a.m.-12 p.m. $15 family ticket-4 or more $5 per person Free for infants under 1
Purchase tickets at
jccgw.org
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HEALTH & FITNESS
Hereditary Cancer in the Jewish Community: What You Need to Know
Be Prepared for Flu Season
Wednesday, October 22 | 7 p.m. | Free
Flu Shots | Tuesday, October 7 12:30-2:30 p.m.
Join us for a panel discussion—featuring a gynecologist, previvor of the BRCA gene, survivor of the BRCA gene and a genetic counselor—aimed at explaining the nuances of hereditary cancer. Learn whether you or someone in your family should consider genetic testing. Attendees will have the option to schedule an on-site appointment for counseling and testing for Men and women of Ashkenazi Jewish a BRCA gene mutation to be conducted at a descent are at significantly increased risk follow-up session on October 29. for certain cancers — including breast, ovarian, prostate, pancreatic and melanoma Refreshments will be served following — due to inherited BRCA genetic mutations. the discussion. For more information on Knowledge of a genetic predisposition the program, please contact Amy Gantz at to cancer can help facilitate a proactive, 301.348.3713 or agantz@gmail.com. RSVP personalized approach to healthcare. at jccgw.org/RSVPeveningoflearning
Health & Fitness Open House Sunday, October 5 | 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Join the JCCGW during our one-day Open House and we’ll waive your initiation fee – a savings of up to $150! Discover more than you expect at the JCC of Greater Washington, Rockville’s premier health and fitness center. • Fully-equipped fitness center • Full-court basketball • Racquetball courts • Indoor & outdoor pools • Personal training • Group exercise classes
• Babysitting services • JCCGW Preschool • Camp JCC • Program & classes • Arts & culture events • …and much more!
Plus, try out our dynamic group exercise classes, such as Yoga, Zumba, Step, Kangoo and others! Visit jccgw.org for the full schedule. Already a member? Enjoy amazing one-day-only deals, refer-a-friend Center Cash rewards and more! Raffle and prizes Spin the wheel
RSVP at jccgw.org/openhouse
Come for the
Open House
and stay for Sukkah Village (see page 11)!
12 6125 Montrose Road • Rockville, MD 20852 • jccgw.org • 301.881.0100
Shady Grove Adventist Hospital will be at the JCCGW to administer this important vaccine to our community. The fee is $28 for flu shots, and $35 for the pneumonia vaccine or high potency flu shots. Shady Grove will accept cash or checks made payable to AHC. Medicare Part B covers the cost of these shots; bring your Medicare card if applicable. For details, please contact Debbie Sokobin at 301.348.3760 or dsokobin@jccgw.org.
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OCTOBER 2014
ARTS & CULTURE
GOLDMAN ART GALLERY
Outside the Box
Original abstract paintings filled with energy by Joan Schiller
October 26-November 23 Open when JCCGW is open
Reception: Sunday, November 23 | 2-4 p.m. Ms. Schiller will present a talk about her artwork during the reception at 2:30 p.m. The JCCGW gratefully acknowledges The Kaplan Family Foundation for supporting this exhibit. Joan Schiller is a local working artist who loves using acrylic paints with other “out of the box” materials. Some art in this show is touchable, colorful, and kid friendly! Visit the gallery and enjoy! For more information please contact Phyllis Altman at paltman@jccgw.org or 301.348.3770.
“Fun House” by Joan Schiller
POLINGER ARTISTS OF EXCELLENCE CONCERT
The Weilerstein Trio Returns Sunday, November 2 | 7:30 p.m.
DANIEL PEARL MEMORIAL CONCERT
The Vivaldi Project Monday, October 20 | 7:30 p.m.
Cellist Alisa Weilerstein will be joined by her parents, violinist Donald Weilerstein and pianist Vivian Hornik Weilerstein.
The dynamic Weilerstein Trio returns to the JCCGW to showcase an astounding musical family. Cellist Alisa Weilerstein, who last played on the Kreeger stage as a precocious 15 year old, is one of the most sought-after soloists of her generation and the recent winner of a MacArthur Foundation “genius” award. She will be joined by her parents, Grammy-nominated Cleveland Quartet first violinist Donald Weilerstein, and noted pianist and pedagogue Vivian Hornik Weilerstein. The program will include works by Schumann and Shostakovich. To purchase tickets, visit jccgw.org/concerts or call the box office at 301.348.3872. For more information, please contact Janet Getz at 301.348.3779 or jgetz@jccgw.org.
The Vivaldi Project brings to life the Classical String Trio, an exciting and flexible genre explored by some of the 18th century’s greatest composers. Performing on period instruments, The Vivaldi Project Trio, consisting of violin, viola and cello, will explore the missing link between Vivaldi and Beethoven, capturing the delightful textures and sonorities of a set of mostly unknown works. The program will include performances of trios by Haydn, Mozart, Boccherini and Cambini plus lively commentary about the works. FREE. RSVP to Janet Getz at 301.348.3779 or jgetz@jccgw.org.
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ARTS & CULTURE
GOLDMAN ART GALLERY
Voices of the Vigil
An original exhibition created by the Jewish Historical Society of Greater Washington
September 1-October 19
In JCCGW’s Goldman Art Gallery Gallery hours: open when JCCGW is open
Music, Movies and Munchies The Lessans Family Annual Book Festival, to be held November 6-16, promises to be one for the books! Here is a sampling of some of the great programs. For the entire schedule, please see page 15 or visit jccgw.org/bookfestival. An Evening with Molly Ringwald November 6 | 7:30 p.m. Actress, jazz performer and author, Molly Ringwald will be performing hits from her new jazz album, including songs we all know and love like “Don’t You (Forget About Me).” Join us for an unforgettable evening with one of your favorite movie stars!
Joan Dodek lighting a menorah at the daily vigil in 1982. (Courtesy of Jewish Historical Society of Greater Washington Collections) This award-winning exhibition tells the story of the two-decade long effort by Washington Jews to free their refusenik brethren living in the Soviet Union. Voices of the Vigil showcases more than 90 historic photos, archival documents, protest buttons and t-shirts, and other memorabilia that tell the story of our community’s role in the struggle for freedom for Soviet Jewry. In addition to holding a 20-year daily vigil across the street from the Soviet Embassy, Washington Jews organized rallies and marches, lobbied politicians, mailed letters and packages to refuseniks, and visited Jews in the Soviet Union. For more information about the exhibit, contact Phyllis Altman at paltman@jccgw.org or 301.348.3770. Norman Goldstein was chair of the Jewish Historical Society of Greater Washington’s Community Advisory Committee for the Voices of the Vigil exhibition. He is a past president of the Jewish Community Council and was a chair of the Freedom Sunday Rally for Soviet Jewry in 1987. For his insight on the vigil, please visit jccgw.org/vigil.
NYC Night at the Center With Authors Eddie Shapiro and Allen Salkin Thursday, November 13 Eddie Shapiro Allen Salkin 6:30 p.m. and 8:15 p.m. Photo by Michael An evening of riveting stories about Paternostro your NYC favorites – Broadway and The Food Network – brought to you by two widely recognized and fabulously entertaining writers. Million Dollar Arm A Conversation with Author J.B. Bernstein Sunday, November 16 | 10 a.m. Made into a multi-million dollar Disney film, Million Dollar Arm is a humorous and inspiring story about baseball and the American dream.
J.B. Bernstein
Photo by Jeff Gale
From Russia with Love… An Evening Featuring David Bezmozgis and Lev Golinkin Sunday, November 16 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. David Bezmozgis Lev Golinkin Join us for a vodka tasting, Russian Photo by Hannah Young delicacies, and fascinating back-to-back talks delivered by two acclaimed authors. Tickets go on sale October 6. To purchase tickets, visit jccgw. org/bookfestival, stop by the box office or call 301.348.3805. Tickets are non-refundable.
The Jewish Community Center of Greater Washington is supported by a grant from the Maryland State Arts Council, an agency dedicated to cultivating a vibrant cultural community where the arts thrive. Funding for the Maryland State Arts Council is also provided by the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency which believes that a great nation deserves great art. The JCCGW is also supported in part by funding from the Montgomery County Government and the Arts and Humanities Council of Montgomery County, the County Executive’s Ball for the Arts, and private sources.
14 6125 Montrose Road • Rockville, MD 20852 • jccgw.org • 301.881.0100
OCTOBER 2014
The Lessans Family Annual Book Festival
November 6-16
Tickets go on sale October 6. Visit jccgw.org/bookfestival or call the box office at 301.348.3805. Tickets are nonrefundable. THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 6 6:30 p.m. Patrons Reception 7:30 p.m. An Evening with Molly Ringwald FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7 12 p.m. Catherine Zacks Gildenhorn | Redefining Moments: End of Life Stories for Better Living SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 9 9:30 a.m. FREE CHILDREN’S PROGRAM Lesléa Newman | Here is the World: A Year of Jewish Holidays 1 p.m. Dr. Elana Sztokman | The War on Women in Israel: A Story of Religious Radicalism and the Women Fighting for Freedom 5:30 p.m. Joshua Safran | Free Spirit: Growing Up On the Road and Off the Grid MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10 12 p.m. Dr. Joel Hoffman | The Bible’s Cutting Room Floor: The Holy Scriptures Missing From Your Bible 7:30 p.m. FREE MOVIE NIGHT Salinger
Book Store Hours
Friday, November 7 Sunday, November 9 Monday, November 10 Tuesday, November 11 Wednesday, November 12 Thursday, November 13 Friday, November 14 Sunday, November 16
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 11 12 p.m. Mark Lee Greenblatt | Valor: Unsung Heroes from Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Home Front 4:30 p.m. STUDENT PROGRAM Debbie Levy and Vanessa BrantleyNewton | We Shall Overcome: The Story of a Song 7 p.m. Laura Silver | Knish: In Search of the Jewish Soul Food WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 12 7:30 p.m. Iris Krasnow | Sex After…Women Share How Intimacy Changes as Life Changes THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 13 10 a.m. Jennifer Senior | All Joy and No Fun: The Paradox of Modern Parenthood 12 p.m. Martin Goldsmith | Alex’s Wake: A Voyage of Betrayal and a Journey of Remembrance NEW YORK NIGHT 6:30 p.m. Eddie Shapiro | Nothing Like a Dame: Conversations with the Great Women of Musical Theater 8:15 p.m. Allen Salkin | From Scratch: Inside the Food Network
9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. 9 a.m.-7 p.m. 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. & 4-9 p.m. 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. & 4-9 p.m. 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. & 4-9 p.m. 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. & 4-9 p.m. 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. 9 a.m.-9 p.m.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14 10:30 a.m. 9TH ANNUAL BOOK CLUB BRUNCH Susan Jane Gilman | The Ice Cream Queen of Orchard Street SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16 10 a.m. BREAKFAST & BASEBALL J.B. Bernstein | Million Dollar Arm: Sometimes to Win, You Have to Change the Game 1 p.m. Mitchell Bard | Death to the Infidels: Radical Islam’s War Against the Jews FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE 5 p.m. David Bezmozgis | The Betrayers 7 p.m. Lev Golinkin | A Backpack, a Bear and Eight Crates of Vodka THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18 7 p.m. POST-FESTIVAL EVENT Ambassador Stuart Eizenstat | The Future of the Jews: How Global Forces are Impacting the Jewish People, Israel, and Its Relationship with the United States
The Kass Judaic Library will be closed for book festival preparations from October 1 through November 19. Books may be returned to the front desk during that time. We apologize for any inconvenience.
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ADULTS
Jewish Funeral Practices Tuesday, October 7 | 1 p.m. in the Goldman Art Gallery | Free
David Zinner
David Zinner is founder and executive director of Gamliel Institute, a center for leadership training and advocacy of traditional Jewish practice in the continuum of care at the end of life. He has been active in representing the Washington, DC Jewish community
in negotiating service contracts with Jewish funeral homes. His lecture will address end-of-life issues, including Jewish traditional practices concerning honoring the dead and comforting the bereaved.
Discussion Groups The men’s discussion group meets at the Center on Tuesdays at 1 p.m. and Wednesdays at 2:30 p.m. For details, contact Herb Heldman at Pheldman9221@gmail.com or 240.380.2739.
Presented by the JCCGW Men’s Discussion Group, this lecture is free and open to the community. Refreshments will be served. For more information about the program, please contact Toby Gottesman at 301.530.7777.
The women’s discussion group, Women’s Connections, meets at the Center on Mondays at 11 a.m. For details, contact Debbie Sokobin at dsokobin@jccgw.org or 301.348.3760.
OASIS AT THE JCCGW
“Beethoven’s Ears” Wednesday, October 29 | 7-9 p.m. A former student of Leonard Bernstein, Lilienstein holds B.A. and M.S. degrees in music from Queens College, NY. A highlyregarded professor of music, his is a familiar voice at the Kennedy Center, Smithsonian Institution, Washington National Opera, Johns Saul Lilienstein Hopkins University and at music There is a mystery about all acts symposiums across the country. of creative genius, but none more imponderable than Ludwig van The fee for this special program, Beethoven’s. In this lecture, Saul cosponsored by OASIS (a unique Lilienstein will address how he did educational program for adults it and how encroaching deafness age 50+), is $20. Register online affected his music. Some mysteries at jccgw.org (code 13669). For will remain, but the character of more information, please contact the man and the immensity of his Debbie Sokobin at 301.348.3760 or talent are the deeper subjects at dsokobin@jccgw.org. the heart of this presentation. 16 6125 Montrose Road • Rockville, MD 20852 • jccgw.org • 301.881.0100
Lunch, Music and Memories featuring a docent-led viewing of “Voices of the Vigil” Thursday, October 2 | 11:45 a.m. -2 p.m. In the JCCGW Goldman Art Gallery
This award-winning original exhibition created by the Jewish Historical Society of Greater Washington tells the story of the Washington, DC community’s role in the struggle for freedom for Soviet Jewry (see page 14 for details). The program will feature a lovely kosher lunch, musical accompaniment from our senior chorus, and a presentation on this important period in our history. A donation of $5 is suggested. To make a reservation, please contact Debbie Sokobin at 301.348.3760 or dsokobin@jccgw.org.
OCTOBER 2014
Safe Driving Computers 101 October 14-November 4 Refresher Course Tuesdays, 12:30-2 p.m. Monday, October 27 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. in the Teen Center
This class is designed to sharpen your skills behind the wheel and make you a safer and better driver. The class and curriculum were created by AARP. Many insurance companies will give a discount for successfully completing the class. Instructor Jerry Hulman is a certified AARP volunteer. The fee is $15 for AARP members and $20 for non-members. Reservations and payment are required before the start of the class. Please make checks payable to AARP. For details or to make a reservation, please contact Debbie Sokobin at 301.348.3760 or dsokobin@jccgw.org.
Would you like to learn how to use email? Can you download attachments? Can you open pictures that are sent to you? Can you save and/or print them? Learn how to expand your world from the comfort of your home (for PC users only – not Macintosh devices). Taught at the JCCGW by Jerry Hulman, the fee is $10 for members and $15 for the general public. Register online at jccgw.org (code 13670) or contact Debbie Sokobin at 301.348.3760 or dsokobin@jccgw.org.
ACE Lecture Series
Connecting In Friendship
Thursdays, October 23-November 13 1:30-3 p.m.
The Jewish Social Service Agency (JSSA), in cooperation with the JCCGW, will conduct a four-session interactive course entitled “Connecting in Friendship.” Held at the JCCGW and led by licensed social workers Leslie Kessler and Beth K. Shapiro, this course builds social skills to help older adults make friends and develop good relationships. The fee is $60 and preregistration is required. To learn more and to register, please call 301.816.2665 or email coamd@jssa.org.
“True happiness consists not in the multitude of friends, but in the worth and choice.” – Samuel Johnston
Mondays, October 6-November 11 at Leisure World Clubhouse I
Please join us at Leisure World for this series of stimulating lectures taught by an outstanding volunteer faculty. The fee for the series is $15 per class (for the six-week series). To register, visit jccgw.org. For more information, please contact Debbie Sokobin at 301.348.3760 or dsokobin@jccgw.org. 10-11:15 a.m. | The 1950s: A Decade to Remember or Forget? Instructor: Paul Levy Code 13394
©Polina Fridman, Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License
11:25 a.m.- 12:30 p.m. | Parallel Narratives Never Meet — History of Arab Jewish Conflict, Part 2: 1949-2014 Instructor: Ira Weiss Code 13360
1:10-2:10 p.m. Comparative Religions Code 13463 2:20-3:20 p.m. Connecting to Our Jewish Roots Instructor: Steve Raucher Code 13419
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Thank You for Your Support To make a tribute gift, please visit jccgw.org/donate or contact Katya Pidgurskaya at 301.348.3855 or katya@jccgw.org.
This list reflects gifts received from July 15 through August 5, 2014.
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 Richard Helgeson by Rita and Jennifer Helgeson • in honor of Rita Helgeson by Richard and Jennifer Helgeson • in honor of Jennifer Helgeson by Rita and Richard Helgeson • in honor of Richard Helgeson’s birthday October 1st (father of Andrew) by Rita and Jennifer Helgeson • in memory of Alec Barney Wolf’s yahrzeit, October 17th (maternal great, great grandfather of Andrew) by Rita and Richard Helgeson • in memory of Fannie Wolf Weiss’ yahrzeit on October 2nd (maternal great grandmother of Andrew) by Rita and Richard Helgeson • in memory of what would have been Bernard Samuel Feinstein’s birthday October 2nd (maternal grandfather of Andrew) by Rita and Richard Helgeson • get well wishes to Kate Carter by Rita, Richard and Jennifer Helgeson • in honor of Ruth Book’s birthday by Rita and Richard Helgeson • in honor of Anita Goldhar’s birthday by Rita, Richard and Jennifer Helgeson • get well wishes to Marcia Lorimer by Jennifer, Rita and Richard Helgeson • in honor of Alexander Blackman, Hallie Cohen, Jenna Ross and Sarah Rubin by Jordan Axelrod and family • in honor of Garrett Adams, Trey Branch, Camryn Cheatham, Keshaun Owens Carter, Gai Kaufman and Emilie Plesset by Solomon Ballas • in honor of Jake Berman by Beth and Leighton Chan • in honor of Jenny Diamond, Sarah McNally, Eliel Norkola-Smith, Danielle Oakley, Ethan Pedoim and Carol Teitelbaum by Adam Chandler • in honor of Elaina Jaffe, Alan Kaplan, Joseph Kappeler and Leah Singman by Daniel Fink • in honor of Emily Dahl, Josh Denicoff, Janie Klein, Allison Nadler and Jaclyn Rattner by Larry Fink • in honor of Lauren Alexander, Gabrielle Cohen, Rachel Ellinport, Jacob Summers-Berger and Ashley Wilbur by Richard Fink • in honor of Paula Henderson by Daniel, Richard and Larry Fink • in honor of Heather Brody, Diana Deshields, Sara Fink, Olabisi Fraser, Sarah Freedman, Sydney Soroka, Amanda Tang and Daniel Zuckerman by Camille Freedman and family
TRIBUTE CONTRIBUTIONS
• in honor of Isaac Briskin, Erica Frank, Ilana Kapit, Carol Lopez, Travis Mager, Sara Neufeld, Julie Siegel, Doug Steinman, Leanna Taylor and David Thibeau by Arlen and Brian Gaines • in honor of Emily Dahl, Josh Denicoff, Janie Klein, Allison Nadler and Jaclyn Rattner by the Galipeau family • in honor of Erica Frank, Julia Greenberg, Ariel Horn, Magnus Nuako, Rebecca Panitch, Maya Pasternak and David Thibeau by Jacob and Samantha Gaum • in honor of the Camp JCC 2014 leadership team by Jill Gessner • in honor of Laura Stall by the family of Benzi Goldman • in honor of Fara Gold and Valerie Straus by Nora Gorfinkel • in honor of Erica Frank by Sara Gottovi • in honor of Erica Frank, Julia Greenberg, Ariel Horn, Magnus Nuako, Rebecca Panitch and Maya Pasternak by Lucy Hirsch and family • in honor of Zach Markenson and David Thibeau by Noah Kaufmann and family • in honor of Katie Berman by Chana Keleman • in honor of Avraham Eisenman, Elaina Jaffe, Samilia Kamara, Alan Kaplan, Joseph Kappeler, Zachary Markenson, Leah Marquis, Sydney Moskowitz and Leah Singman by the Kline family • in honor of Lindsay Finkelstein, Daniel Flesch, Francheska Nina, Danielle Rednick and Matthew Rosenfeld by Patricia Bonaz and Stephan Krause • in honor of Alex Ekam by Deborah, David, Joshua and Eliana Lang • Isaac Briskin, Ilana Kapit, Carol Lopez, Travis Mager, Sara Neufeld, Julie Siegel, Doug Steinman and Leanna Taylor by Meital Lurie and family • in honor of Jesse Berman, Madeline Feierstein, Sydney Solomon and Samantha Stuart by Ophir Lurie and family • in honor of Miriam Cohen, Elissa Israel and Amit Levinson by Sivan Lurie and family • in honor of Brad Smith by Brian Marquardt • in honor of Kara Miller by Jeremy, Doris, Vince and Edda Martin • in honor of Jake Chukran by Lynn and Dan Midgette • in honor of Justin Furbush by Jason Milobsky • in honor of Jessica Brown, Maria Claudia Garcia-Rada, Jordan Kramer, Caleb Mairson and Gideon Shrier by Mili, Scott and Sasha Ormiston • in honor of Sarah Dickstein, Adeena Eisen, Erica Frank, Andrew Kurlantzick, Alyssa Miller, Elana Oser, Sarah Taylor and David Thibeau by Tracy and Rick Newman • in honor of Matti Ben-Lev by David, Laura, Jonah and Oliver Plotkin
• in honor of Ashley Arcidiacono, Heather Brody, Emily Dahl, Josh Denicoff, Sara Fink, Janie Klein, Allison Nadler, Jaclyn Rattner, Rachel Rickman, Jon Shirazi, Sydney Soroka and Daniel Zuckerman by David, Susan, Simon and Charlotte Pugach • in honor of Jake Chukran, Diana Deshields, Olabisi Fraser, Sara Freedman, Lauren Gottfried, Julia Greenberg, Brett Harris-Gallahue, Ariel Horn, Magnus Nuako, Rebecca Panitch, Maya Pasternak and Amanda Tang by Max and Sam Rubinstein and family • in honor of Hanna Silnicky by Leah Sachs and family • in honor of Ashley Arcidiacano, Leah Fisher, Brent Greenberg, Shoshana Lasday, Sahpir Mushkat, Danielle Singman, Brad Smith, Asean Townsend and Joseph Williams by Matt, Beth, Jacob and Aaron Swibel • in honor of Julia Greenberg by Anna and Steven Taylor and family • in honor of Garrett Adams, Keshaun Owens Carter, Camryn Cheatham, Trevon Branch and Emilie Plesset by Coby and Asher Tolin Jane Hulman Camp Scholarship Fund • in memory of Selma Portizsky by Joan Weinberg • in honor of Jerry Hulman’s birthday by Joni and Murray Camp JCC Special Needs & Inclusion Program • in memory of Dr. Robert Morgenstein by the Oser family • in honor of Amy Gantz, Jill Gessner, Fara Gold, Paula Henderson, Allyson Levine, Stacy Katz-Olivera and Stephanie Zweig by Liz Oser • in honor of Katie Berman, Dylan Kapit, Sarah McNally and Hannah Whiddon by Andrew C. Cohen and Julide Aker • in honor of Sarah Rubin by Laura and Noah Berlin EARLY CHILDHOOD Bender-Dosik Parenting Center • in honor of the birth of Roz and Rob Black’s first grandchild, Jack Riley Maier by Suzanne and Michael Feinstein
SENIOR ADULTS Golf & Tennis Tournament • in memory of Alvin Bernstein by Lee and Gloria Derkay
• in honor of Mark Newburger by Selma and Harvey Sweetbaum • in honor of David Schreiber by Selma and Harvey Sweetbaum
Marjorie and Martin Schwartzberg Fund for Senior Adult Programs • in memory of Mel Estrin by Marjorie and Martin Schwartzberg • in memory of Shel Young by Marjorie and Martin Schwartzberg • in memory of Barbara Cohen by Mimi and Tommy Nordlinger
SPECIAL NEEDS Goldberg Goldman Endowment for Sports Activities for Children with Special Needs • in memory of Gil Lessenco by Barbara Goldberg Goldman and Mike Goldman • in memory of Evelyn Kamerow Sacks by Barbara Goldberg Goldman and Mike Goldman
Senior Adult Programs • in memory of Sonia Danshes by Debbie Sokobin • in honor of Jack Katz’s birthday by Debbie Sokobin • in honor of Linda Wechsler’s birthday by Debbie Sokobin Sweetbaum Family Endowment Fund for Senior Adult Programs • in memory of Sonia Danshes by Selma and Harvey Sweetbaum • in honor of Dr. Frank Newberger on his birthday by Selma and Harvey Sweetbaum
David Lev Kandel Memorial Endowment Fund • in memory of Ronald Savage by Claudia and Ari Kandel; Janie and Don Rutman; Bonnie and Mark Winnick Special Needs and Inclusion Program • in honor of Alyssa Unowitz by Jacob Jaffe
Donate your vehicle and support three agencies. • jewish Foundation for group Homes • jewish community center of greater washington • jewish council for the aging
GENERAL SUPPORT Annual Fund • in memory of Alvin Bernstein by Suzanne and Michael Feinstein; Jodi Shulimson • in memory of Stella Parness by Marie Dow • in honor of Toby Gottesman by Saradona and Len Lefkowitz Bernard M. Weisz Past President’s Endowment for Leadership Development • in memory of Robin Taub’s father by Janyse and Bernie Weisz • in honor of Thea Cohen’s marriage by Janyse and Bernie Weisz
18 6125 Montrose Road • Rockville, MD 20852 • jccgw.org • 301.881.0100
240.283.6000
www.car-j.org
center
OCTOBER 2014
UPCOMING EVENTS
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 2 11:45 a.m. Lunch, music and docent-led viewing of Goldman Art Gallery Exhibit, “Voices of the Vigil” (page 16) FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3 Kol Nidre 5:30 a.m.-3 p.m. H&F hours 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. JDS School Out Day. 301.348.3889 1 p.m. Offices close SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4 Yom Kippur 10 a.m. Yom Kippur Family Program: “I am Sorry Day” (page 11) JCCGW closed (except for Yom Kippur Family Program) SUNDAY, OCTOBER 5 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Health & Fitness Open House (page 12) 10 a.m. Sukkot Family Program: “Sukkah Village” (page 11) 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Books & Fellowship for Jewish singles age 45+: Discussion only of the movie, “Monuments Men.” 301.348.3816 MONDAY, OCTOBER 6 7:15 p.m. Parenting Lecture: “Parenting with Confidence” (page 11) TUESDAY, OCTOBER 7 12:30-2:30 p.m. Flu Shots (page 12) 1 p.m. Men’s Club Program: “Jewish Funeral Practices” (page 16) WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 8 Erev Sukkot 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m. H&F hours 12-3:30 p.m. JDS School Out Day. 301.348.3889 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 9 Sukkot 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m. H&F hours 9 a.m.-5 p.m. HoliDaycare for JCCGW Preschool students. 301.348.3839 Offices and Preschool closed FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10 Sukkot 5:30 a.m.-8 p.m. H&F hours 9 a.m.-5 p.m. HoliDaycare for JCCGW Preschool students. 301.348.3839 Offices and Preschool closed MONDAY, OCTOBER 13 11 a.m. Hurwitz Internal Light Low Vision Support Group meets at Ring House. 301.348.3760 TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14 1:30 p.m. Coming of Age program at Leisure World Clubhouse I: “Renoir: Some of His Greatest Masterpieces” presented by art historian Joan Hart. 301.348.3832 6-8 p.m. JCCGW Preschool Program: “Pizza in the Hut.” 301.348.3839
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 15 12-3:30 p.m. JDS School Out Day. 301.348.3889 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16 Shemini Atzeret 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m. H&F hours Offices and Preschool closed FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17 Simchat Torah 5:30 a.m.-8 p.m. H&F hours Offices and Preschool closed SUNDAY, OCTOBER 19 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Books & Fellowship for Jewish singles age 45+: “The Innocents” by Francesca Segal MONDAY, OCTOBER 20 7:30 p.m. Concert: The Vivaldi Project (page 13) TUESDAY, OCTOBER 21 10 a.m. JCCGW Preschool Open House (page 10) 7 p.m. Bubbie (and Zaydie) Bootcamp (page 11) 7 p.m. Jewish Book Group: “Proxy” by Alex London WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22 7 p.m. Panel Discussion: “Hereditary Cancer in the Jewish Community” (page 12)
WEEKLY ONGOING PROGRAMS
SUNDAYS 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Elie Ronen Scott Family Gym MONDAYS 11 a.m. Women’s Connections 7:15 p.m. Duplicate Bridge TUESDAYS 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
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 23 12:30 p.m. National Council of Jewish Women Book Club: “This Is the Story of a Happy Marriage” by Ann Patchett 8 p.m. Biblical Archaeology Forum: “Hannibal’s Campaign Against Rome” (page 6)
FRIDAYS 9:30-10:30 a.m. Shabbat Shalom Age 6 mos.-3 yrs. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Chess
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 26 Goldman Art Gallery Exhibit opens: “Outside the Box” (page 13)
SELMA SWEETBAUM SENIOR SATELLITE PROGRAM 301.348.3760
MONDAY, OCTOBER 27 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Safe Driving Refresher Course (page 17) 10:30 a.m.-2:15 p.m. Coming of Age Day @ the Ring with exercise, discussion, lunch and entertainment by Seth Kibel Duo. 301.348.3832 TUESDAY, OCTOBER 28 7 p.m. Low Vision Support Group. 301.299.7077 WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29 7 p.m. Lecture: “Beethoven’s Ears” (page 16) THURSDAY, OCTOBER 30 1:30 p.m. Coming of Age movie matinee at Leisure World Clubhouse II: “Zigzag Kid.” 301.348.3832 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. MCPS School Out Day. 301.348.3889 SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 2 7:30 p.m. Concert: Weilerstein Trio (page 13)
MONDAYS Temple Solel in Bowie Ring House in Rockville 1st & 3rd WEDNESDAY OF EACH MONTH Young Israel Shomrei Emunah Congregation in Silver Spring 2nd & 4th WEDNESDAY OF EACH MONTH Har Tzeon Congregation in Wheaton THURSDAYS Har Tzeon Congregation in Wheaton Ring House in Rockville
HEALTH & FITNESS HOURS Monday-Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
5:30 a.m.-10 p.m. 5:30 a.m.-8 p.m. 7 a.m.-8:30 p.m. 7 a.m.-8 p.m.
The building closes ½ hour after the H&F Department closes.
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50th anniversary Production!
OCTOBER 2014
Fiddler on the rooF
Book By JosePh stein | music By Jerry Bock | lyrics By sheldon harnick
directed By molly smith | Produced on the new york stage By harold Prince Based on sholem aleichem stories By sPecial Permission of arnold Perl
original choreograPhy By Jerome roBBins adaPted and restaged By Parker esse
Begins octoBer 31
order today!
202-488-3300 | www.arenastage.org grouPs 10+ save more! call 202-488-4380 for details.
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