J Journal

The J has an

Rock

oUT at the J! Lifesaver emerges in fitness

February-April 2013 / Sh’vat-Iyar 5773

IN SIDE

App for that

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From the Rabbi...

Rabbi Brad Horwitz

Purim Provides Unseen Inspiration

Contents 2

From the Rabbi

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Fitness Success

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Festival of Jewish Life

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Cultural Arts

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Youth

The Jewish holiday of Purim, February 23-24 this year, recounts the story of the Jewish community in Persia a long time ago who faced persecution and destruction at the hands of the evil villain named Haman. Only by the graces of good luck as well as the efforts of the Jewish Queen Esther and her cousin Mordechai did the Jewish community persevere, survive, and spoil Haman and his followers plot.

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Fitness

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Sports, Rec & Aquatics

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Nishmah

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Seniors

One of the interesting things about this account which appears in the Scroll of Esther, is that God’s name never appears in the actual story. This is rare among all of the books of the Jewish Bible. Many commentators point out that even though God‘s name does not appear, God still is a source of inspiration for the Jews and plays an important role behind the scenes.

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Development

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Tributes

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Looking Ahead

As the Jewish community celebrates Purim this year I ask us to consider in which ways that God or Jewish culture and wisdom that can help inspire us to lead lives full of meaning and blessing, just like in the story of Purim. One way to gain inspiration and insight is through further engaging oneself in Jewish life. Here at the J we have several opportunities for all ages to do just that. You may wish to check out our New Jewish Theatre production of Speed-the-Plow playing February 7-24. On February 10, you won’t wasn’t to miss the Family Film Festival. The upcoming Festival of Jewish Life kicks off on February 16.

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Naomi

Shawn

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The JCC Nominating Committee will meet in March to nominate new members for the JCC Board of Directors.

Terms of service on the board are two years. If you would like to recommend someone for nomination, send his/her name to: Michael Staenberg, Chair JCC Nominating Committee c/o Susan Perez Jewish Community Center #2 Millstone Campus Drive St. Louis, MO 63146

There are also several Purim related parties, programs and classes as well as many other great events for you to leave inspired, enriched and even entertained. For women and girls, Nishmah’s Passover Journey program will occur on March 12. These are just a few great opportunities in the next couple of months to get involved and enriched. Everyone is welcome!

The deadline for nominations is March 15, 2013.

B’shalom,

OUR MISSION

Rabbi Brad Horwitz bhorwitz@jccstl.org

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February-April 2013

Baseball

The St. Louis Jewish Community Center is an interactive multigenerational gathering place which imparts Jewish values; promotes individual physical and spiritual growth; creates a caring responsible community and supports those in need; encourages an appreciation for our Jewish identity, history and cultural heritage through effective and innovative education, programming and services; fosters connection, Jewish continuity and creates Jewish memories… in an inclusive and welcoming environment.

FITNESS SUCCESS

There’s No Stopping Her Now! Personal Training Helps Overcome Barriers Getting fit is a relative concept to each of us. Often one’s fitness goals are mistakenly measured purely by stepping on a scale and dealing with the resulting consequences, whether positive or otherwise. Most fitness professionals will heed the advice that a scale is not the true measure of success. One’s attitude, perseverance and abilities often show the true results that a scale will never be able to convey.

Jean Belding, a member of the J for a little over a year with her husband Joel, has found a comfortable fit and new passion for fitness. Jean readily admits that at one point she felt addicted to stepping on a scale, and it just wasn’t working. With her own will and the assistance of personal trainer Paul Mueller and other fitness professionals at the J, Jean has made wonderful strides in 12 short months and created realistic short- and long-term attainable goals just waiting to be realized.

ess c c u S tory S

“Not only has my strength increased, but also my confidence.

Personal training gives me great workout plans, but what I never expected was that my outlook on fitness would be so much better than it has ever been. I look forward to working out, and in contrast to years of doubting my abilities, I believe that I can achieve my goals.”

Cathleen Kronemer instructs Total Conditioning, one of the group exercise classes Jean regularly attends. “If there are particularly challenging exercises or moves I introduce, Jean always faces the challenge head-on. She has progressed in so many ways since we first met, and I have always admired her positive attitude,” Cathleen says.

“Since I joined the J, I’ve exercised more than ever before,” Jean declared. “I’m more fit than I’ve ever been. I’m motivated and enthusiastic about my progress, and for the first time ever, I believe that I am strong enough, physically and mentally, to accomplish my fitness goals.”

A favorite story both Jean and Paul like to tell involves the dreaded scale. Paul recalls Jean talking often about stepping on her scale each morning and using that as a source of motivation and progress. As Paul tells it, “I had to teach her that the scale was not a tool, or a friend, to use for her weight loss journey. The scale would not show her true progress inside the body; such as muscle weighs more than fat; or that a body’s weight fluctuates day-to-day.”

Enter Paul on January 7, 2012. Jean’s previous encounters with personal training had left her with a bad taste in her mouth. However, Paul was able to break through and change Jean’s perceptions. She admittedly shares that Paul made all the difference.

As a result a challenge was set. After a training session, Paul made Jean promise not to step on a scale until the next time they were scheduled to meet, which wasn’t for five weeks!

Jean buried her scale in a closet immediately and soon realized not stepping on it was a lot more difficult than she expected.

“He’s pointed out my accomplishments and taught me how to recognize my progress,” Jean says. “I still have a long way to go. I have forty pounds to lose and my goals for the year involve hard work. But thanks to Paul’s help through personal training, I haven’t given up.”

…continued on page 11

Paul assisted by persuading Jean to take small steps to make better choices and to set goals. “Most importantly she needed to remember to set short term, achievable goals, to ultimately reach her long-term goals,” said Paul. “I helped reinforce positive coping mechanisms for the difficult times. She started telling me how she struggled with this or that but fought off the feelings of being unmotivated by reminding herself she was determined to stay dedicated.”

Prior to the J, Jean considered herself a “treadmill-and-elliptical” person. She hoped personal training would expand her view of the gym. She points out that that she trains with Paul once a month now, but the groundwork set at the beginning has been invaluable. This included being challenged by a trainer, and knowing that trainers are not there to set anyone up for failure. The information she garnered expanded her confidence to use any piece of equipment in the fitness center, including a variety of weights for various exercises.

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FESTIvAL OF JEWISH LIFE

National Acts Take the Stage

Get ready to rock and roll, J style! The J is proud to present six Jewish musical superstars who will perform at the first ever Jewish Rock Radio’s RockFest National Music Festival at the JCC Staenberg Family Complex on Sunday, February 17 from 3:00-8:30pm. Mikey Pauker, Jay Rapoport, Shira Kline, Naomi Less, Saul Kaye and Billy Jonas are the featured artists.

Food will be available for purchase from the finalists of the Rockin’ Sandwich Smackdown food competition, another event of this year’s Festival.

Discover, Enrich and Connect

Each musician has their own unique style and has made a career as a touring Jewish rock artist around the U.S. They are also all featured on the Jewish music internet radio station jewishrockradio.com and never before have these artists performed at the same event. Families with preschool aged children will in particular want to arrive by 3:30pm when Shira Kline will present her outrageously hip kiddie rock music. Acts to follow are appropriate for all ages and even young adults will enjoy the later acts such as Billy Jonas, who takes the stage at 7:00pm. His style is unique and a must see as he mixes conventional instruments (guitar, bass, marimba) with homemade creations, using buckets and barrels, keys and cans, bells and body percussion. At 8:10pm all the performer will join together on stage for a grand finale. Stay for the whole festival or come and go as you please as your schedule allows.

“St. Louis is not a regular scheduled touring spot for many of these talented artists,” says Rick Recht, a local St. Louis Jewish musician and touring artist in his own right. “RockFest is a tremendous opportunity for our community to see firsthand some of the great quality and personalities on the national Jewish music scene. It will be a professional quality production and people who come will be blown away.”

For tickets and complete information go to jewishrockradio.com or call Diane Maier at 314-442-3190.

Jewish Rock Radio RockFest is generously funded by the Lubin-Green Foundation, a supporting foundation of the St. Louis Jewish Federation and co-sponsored by the St. Louis Jewish Light.

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February-April 2013

FESTIvAL OF JEWISH LIFE

Who’s playing…

Something for Everyone RockFest is a feature program of the third annual St. Louis Festival of Jewish Life, a weeklong celebration of Jewish culture, taking place this year February 16-21.

Other great programs being offered during the week include mezuzah making, Purim parties, inspirational classes, a Shir Ami benefit concert for the Jewish Fund for Human Needs and a night of learning and enrichment with local scholars and rabbis.

“We have a great deal of talented teachers, artists, entertainers, rabbis and scholars in our local St. Louis Jewish community,” says Rabbi Brad Horwitz, Director of the JCC Helene Mirowitz Center of Jewish Community Life. “There is something for everyone at the Festival and I encourage everyone to look at the program and pick one or more things that sound appealing. Everyone is welcome and I especially encourage those who have not participated in the past to come and check it out.”

Saul Kaye

Shira Kline

The week will kick off on Saturday night, February 16, with a Havdalah, music, stories, and poetry program in Herky’s JCafe led by Rabbi James Stone Goodman and friends at 7:30pm. Havdalah is the ceremony full of music and singing that marks the end of Shabbat and the beginning of a new week. The evening will be fun and filled with song and laughter.

The Festival of Jewish Life is co-sponsored by the JCC, CAJE, the St. Louis Rabbinical Association and the Saul Brodsky Community Library.

Billy Jonas

Get More Naomi Less Naomi Less is extending her stay at the J to offer an exciting opportunity for moms and their daughters with a special performance on Tuesday, February 19 from 6:00-8:00pm. Naomi’s edgy music includes positive and empowering images of women, and she brings an exciting energy and spirit to her workshops and performances.

Naomi Less

Program is sponsored by Nishmah and co-sponsored by BBYO, Camp Sabra, J Day Camps and the PJ Library.

For complete Festival of Jewish Life details go to festivalofjewishlifestl.com

Mikey Pauker

Jay Rapoport

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CULTURAL ARTS

Community Favorite Returns – Used Book Sale Starts February 3

“Some things do change with the time. We no longer accept donations of encyclopedias. With easy access to the internet, the need for encyclopedias has diminished,” according to Zelda Sparks, J Cultural Arts Director and Sale Coordinator.

J Used Book Sale – Winter Edition Sunday, February 3 - Thursday, February 7 Sunday – Preview Day: $10 admission - 10am - 5pm

What started in Myrna Hershman’s basement almost 40 years ago has become a staple at the J and must for book-lovers from all over St. Louis, and beyond. The Annual Used Book Sale – both the winter and summer versions, are anticipated by thousands of book lovers, dealers, collectors, readers and parents with children, all of whom love books… and at bargain prices! In keeping with the J’s “community” mindedness, the Used Book Sale welcomes all and could not exist without the help of community volunteers.

The dedicated volunteers are perhaps the biggest boosters of the event and truly the ones who make it happen. “The volunteer sorters who work all year long are the backbone of the operation,” says Carole Levin, Chair of the Used Book Sale.

With thousands of books available, there is something for everybody. Whether you’re looking to find a paperback (or four) for the winter months or want to explore new genres, you can do so at a fraction of the price of larger retail outlets! Along with books, you can find treasures in other media, including records, CDs, DvD’s, sheet music and videos. The best part is proceeds benefit the J’s Roswell and Wilma Messing Cultural Arts and Education Department. While stimulating your brain, you are also allowing others to experience the rich cultural offerings of the J.

Monday – Wednesday: FREE - 10am - 7pm Thursday – FREE & Bag Day (fill a bag only $5): 10am - 4pm

Further into the Community Upon reopening after the extensive renovation of the now Staenberg Family Complex, the Used Book Sale needed a new off-season home. For years, unused racquetball courts served as the operations hub for marking and sorting books – this was no longer an option. A relationship with H. F. Epstein Hebrew Academy (1138 North Warson Road, St. Louis, MO 63132) had been established with the J Early Childhood Program during the renovation period, and once again Epstein was able to assist.

As a result, for the past two years the J has been in partnership with Epstein for the Used Book Sale. All donated books are sorted into approximately 50 categories at Epstein, then labeled and boxed in preparation for the sales. Books are then brought to the J and organized to fill the entire Performing Arts Center at the Arts & Education Building.

Donating Books

Used Book Sale Small quantities of books may be dropped off at the summer dates are JCC Staenberg Family August 25 – 29.

Complex – Arts & Education Building. Donors are encouraged to donate at Epstein Hebrew Academy (1138 Warson Road) located just minutes from the J. Those dropping off books should report to the school office to check in and for assistance if needed.

Become a volunteer New volunteers are always welcome. For more information on how to volunteer or to donate books, contact Zelda Sparks at 314-442-3169 or zsparks@jccstl.org

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February-April 2013

CULTURAL ARTS

One-Man Show Returns Actor to St. Louis

Ami Dayan

When Israeli born Ami Dayan lived here, he was a young boy of about 10 or 12. That was in the 1970’s when his father, Amatzia Dayan was the Sheliach for St. Louis. Ami returns to his childhood home in April to perform his one man show Conviction, based on the actual confession of Andres Gonzalez, a priest during the Spanish Inquisition who fell in love with a Jewish woman.

Dayan has performed the piece in New York, Chicago and elsewhere to great acclaim. It was written by Oren Neeman, based on the book Confession by Yonatan Ben-Nachum and Dayan has adapted it for his presentation.

The production runs from April 4 – 14.

David Mamet’s Speed-the-Plow Opens February 7

On Saturday and Sunday, February 9 and 10, the Jewish Family Film Festival will light up the screen at the Staenberg Family Complex (unless indicated). See one or all of the films, catered to select age groups and their families. Chair Gabriela Longman and a committee of parents selected the films.

For young children, An American Tail is the journey of Fievel, a courageous mouse, who braves the perils and wonders of a strange new world. Sunday, February 10 at 2:00pm For grades four and up, the inspirational story Inside Hana’s Suitcase follows a group of school children from Japan who track down the owner of a battered suitcase from the Holocaust Museum in Japan. Sunday, February 10 at 4:00pm For middle and high school students, Live & Become is an epic story of an Ethiopian boy who is airlifted from a refugee camp to Israel. He has two secrets: he is neither an orphan nor a Jew. Saturday, February 9 at 6:45pm (Jewish Federation Kopolow Building, 12 Millstone Campus Dr.) Tickets are $7 for individuals or $20 for a family of four and may be purchased through brownpapertickets.com or by calling the Jewish Film Festival Hotline at 314-442-3179.

David Mamet’s satirical and cynical black comedy that looks at the corrupt world of Hollywood runs February 7 – 24.

MATURE LANGUAGE

Tickets for the New Jewish Theatre can be purchased at newjewishtheatre.org or by calling 314-442-3257.

St. Louis Jewish Book Festival Co-Chairs Named Gail Feldstein and Judy Kramer have been selected to co-chair the 35th Annual St. Louis Jewish Book Festival, which runs November 3 -17, 2013. “I am so excited to be co-chairing the Festival again this year,” said Feldstein. “It is one of the most exciting and fulfilling volunteer jobs I have experienced.”

“I’ve enjoyed the Festival for so many years,” said Kramer, “I’m looking forward to being so involved in all the exciting events it brings to the community.”

For more information or to join the Festival Planning Committee, contact Marcia Evers Levy at 314-442-3152 or mlevy@jccstl.org

Short Film Competition is Open The St. Louis Jewish Film Festival’s Short Film Competition is soliciting new and established filmmakers. Categories for competition begin as young as sixth grade. Filmmakers should submit a short film, no more than five minutes in length, on the theme of Peace. This can be peace in school, an anti-bullying message, within our community, or anywhere else. Filmmakers need not be Jewish to enter.

Finished films are due April 26, 2013. The deadline for letters of intent is February 22, 2013 with an entry fee of $10. Winning films will be showcased at the 2013 St. Louis Jewish Film Festival in June. Rules can be found at stljewishfilmfestival.org

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YOUTH

Shawn McAfee: A Star in the Making Youth Theatre in the Spotlight Every fall and spring semester, dozens of kids become curious about what it’s like to be on stage and sign up for the J’s Youth Theatre program. For some, it becomes an early-found passion.

Shawn McAfee

Shawn McAfee, a bright-eyed and expressive fifth grader at High Ridge Elementary, was inspired to act after doing a holiday play at school in second grade.

He began doing theatre at the J in August of 2011 when he played Philias Fogg in Around the World in 80 Days. He wore a pillow belly to portray the pudgy Augustus Gloop in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and this past fall a long, auburn beard as the old butcher, Lazer Wolfe, in Fiddler on the Roof, Jr.

“Shawn lights up when he does theatre,” says Cindy Lewis, the Youth Theatre Coordinator. “He takes direction well and really seems to take that extra step to make each role his own.”

Most recently, Shawn was in a performance piece of excerpts from Free to Be You and Me for the Jewish Book Festival, FREE TO BE…YOU & ME: A Parenting Workshop on Bulliying, Building Self-Confidence & Breaking Down Stereotypes.

Shawn has high aspirations to be on Broadway one day. The J’s Youth Theatre has provided the perfect opportunity he needed to get his feet wet.

He highly encourages other kids to try out for plays and attend workshops.

“If another kid is interested in doing the youth theatre program, I would be extremely happy for them because they can learn to be a professional actor and bring laughter and enjoyment to others,” he says.

Upcoming Shows You can see Shawn and the other talented performers in Teen Theatre’s production of Guys & Dolls on April 11 at 7:00pm and April 14 at 3:30pm in the Mirowitz Performing Arts Center at the Staenberg Family Complex. Other upcoming productions include Theatre Kochavim’s Goin Buggy on Thursday, March 21 at 6:30pm and Sunday, March 24 at 3:30pm and The Little Mermaid

by Theatre Chaverim on Thursday, May 9 at 7:00pm and Sunday, May 12 at 3:30pm.

Shawn played Cazar Wolfe in the recent Youth Theatre production of Fiddler on the Roof, Jr.

To get involved, purchase tickets or more information on Youth Theatre Program, contact Cindy Lewis at 314-442-3239 or clewis@jccstl.org Shawn as Augustus Gloop in the Youth Theatre production of Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory

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February-April 2013

YOUTH

Come and Play

Get Silly with Art

Playgroups Benefit Everyone Beginning with infants and toddlers, everyone needs friends, so get an early start!

Playgroups with the J offer you the chance create friendships and bonds which can last a lifetime. Benefits are numerous, usually for parent(s) and children alike, and provide most importantly the opportunity for socialization for the youngsters.

“Joining my daughter’s playgroup in 2008 was a wonderful experience for both my daughter and I,” related Stacy McNew, a longtime playgroup member. “We both made lifelong friends with whom we’ve celebrated birthdays, new siblings, anniversaries, Mama’s Night Out and so much more. I can truly say that our J playgroup became our second family.”

Playgroups through the J are created for Jewish and interfaith families and held at various times. They are organized around children’s ages and held in the home of a participant, so locations can vary with groups created around a general area.

Groups are available for working and non–working parents, and not just for first time moms or dads but second– and third–time parents too!

“The J playgroup was such a fantastic way to meet new people with kids the same age! After five years, my playgroup friends are still some of my (and my sons) closest friends,” says Melanie Winograd.

Let your child’s imagination flow in Messy Mornings and KidzArt, two upcoming creative classes for kids! Keep the mess at the J and out of your house!

Messy Mornings (18 mos.-3 yrs.) begins March 28 with Marianne Chervitz (Chesterfield) 314-442-3454 KidzArt – Squiggles to Grins (2-3½ yrs.) begins April 8 with Emilie Brockman (Creve Coeur) 314-442-3267

Spring Break Fun

Benefits of Playgroups Along with the obvious fun playgroups offer, there is quite a bit of stimulation and learning for children. Benefits are generally quickly noticeable and can help children gain confidence, become more socialized and open their imaginations. The concept of sharing also starts to take shape, as it is sometimes difficult for children to simply learn they cannot always have the toy they desire whenever the feel like it.

Observing is a strong tool children use and in a playgroup, there is a lot to be seen.

Watching other children interact, as well as interacting with playmates offers social benefits. Language skills may be gained or enhanced, again from observing. When snack time comes along and a child can say “snack” or “pop” for popcorn, another child can learn and imitate, developing their use or words.

Let your kids burn their energy while having a blast at the J over Spring Break. Grades K-8.

Consistency offers a child structure, and playgroups offer the environment of expectation. Little ones absorb information quickly and where playgroups offer both free-play and structured activates, such as snack time or story time, lessons can be learned. If a child hears snack time, they start to create the expectation of receiving a snack. At the same time if a child is told or sees another child wash their hands before eating, they learn it becomes expected of them.

Fox Building (Chesterfield) March 11-22

Get Involved

Contact: Patrick Fox pfox@jccstl.org 314-442-3198

Playgroups at the J are open for everybody. Members can join for free, while all others have a nominal one time placement fee of $18. To get involved or for more information, call or email Emilie Brockman at 314-442-3267 or ebrockman@jccstl.org

SFC (Creve Coeur) March 15-April 2

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FITNESS

Tips to Get Started on a Healthier You

Meet the Trainer: Lehman Griffin Emphasis on dedication creates positive change for J trainer

In an effort to keep up with the everpopular “get in shape” New Year’s resolution, here are a few tips and things to keep in mind as we continue into 2013. The J is here to help and support you in your endeavors to creating a healthier lifestyle through fitness.

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Set short term and long term goals. Short term should be about three months out, and be specific.

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Tell your friends – they’ll help hold you accountable.

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Create a workout plan and stick to it. Don’t go into the gym aimlessly. (This is where trainers can offer lots of help!)

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Track your progress - including weight, minutes exercised, difficulty of workout, etc.

When you see your improvements, you’ll be motivated to keep going!

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Ask for help if you need it, whether from a professional about the right methods or a friend for support.

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Stay focused on your own path. Fitness cannot offer a one-size fits all type of plan.

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Remember it takes 21 days to create a habit, 4-5 weeks to notice a change in yourself and 10-12 weeks for others to notice a considerable change – perseverance is key!

We’ll see you on the treadmill!

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February-April 2013

Lehman Griffin

Lehman Griffin has a relatable story for anyone out there looking to drop some weight and get in shape. He was an active guy throughout his youth. He then hit college and ignored nutrition; and although he kept exercising, an extra 40 pounds found their way onto his frame. To see him today, you would never know it! Beginning his career in fitness a few short years ago, Lehman was certified in 2010 and joined the J fitness family in 2011 at the Staenberg Family Complex.

After looking in the mirror one day back in college, Lehman knew it was time to make a change. He dove headfirst into several aspects of heath and fitness, especially nutrition, and saw his weight slowly drop. He found that with dedication, anything can be accomplished – which is what he now sets out to show his clients.

“There are always hurdles we have to jump over to get to where we want in life,” Lehman suggests. “Fitness is no different. Habits have to be broken and goals set. I want to help clients visualize how their life would be different by accomplishing their personal goals. To reach your goals, persistence is key.”

Lehman has settled in comfortably at the J. He enjoys the diversity of lifestyles, fitness levels and age groups and the unique training environment. He sees the uniqueness in the variety of workouts clients have at their disposal because of the amount of options. And if you’re just getting started, Lehman would love to discuss the basics of a fit lifestyle and be able to “show it is possible to change and that anyone can be physically active.”

Lehman considers the J by far the best gym for himself and clients. “I am able to give them the one-on-one attention they need and deserve. Plus, I’m able to give them the tools they need to exercise to their fullest potential. It’s not about performing a few exercises and being on a short diet; it involves a complete lifestyle change. That change will bring future rewards.”

If you would like to meet with a personal trainer or schedule a FREE BeWell fitness orientation, contact the fitness center at 314-442-3159 (Creve Coeur) or 314-442-3439 (Chesterfield).

FITNESS

Begin Your Path of Illumination in 2013

…continued from page 3

Once upon a time, many years ago, a wise sage and his pupil were studying long into the night. The sage knew his days were numbered, having been on this earth for seemingly countless decades, imparting his knowledge to many an eager soul. With this in mind, he turned to his devoted student and suggested they get a breath of fresh air and take a walk into the woods.

The Master and his disciple wandered deep into the forest, their path illuminated only by the lantern they carried. Finally they stopped, and the sage said to his pupil, “I am at the end of my days. You must take all that I have taught you and carry on.” With this, he extinguished the lantern. The darkness enveloped the two individuals. Frantic with fear, the young student reached out and said, “Oh Wise One, how can you do this?

Would you truly leave me like this in the darkness?” And a quiet voice answered him, “No, my son… I shall leave you searching for the Light.”

Cathleen Kronemer

As the dawn of a new year unfolds, many of us find ourselves setting goals and resolutions that we inherently know we will be unable to achieve. Caught up in the frenzy of betterment and self-actualization, we strive to attain the unattainable, only to wonder why we are ready to consent to defeats come early February. Why is it that we continue, year after year, to set ourselves up for failure? Society seems to demand that we improve upon whatever we achieved during the past twelve months, leaving us bereft of any positive exhilaration that may have accompanied truly great accomplishments during that time. Must January always signal that escalation of our efforts? Why must we diminish that which may have been the pinnacle of a career, solely in the name of a new calendar year?

This year, I invite you to embrace a novel approach to resolutions. Upon quiet internal reflection, try to identify an aspect of your life that may need clarification.

Often we can feel so close to a place of understanding, and feel that if someone would just clear away the cobwebs, we’d be able to facilitate the change we wish to bring about in our lives. It matters not whether this affects your personal or professional realm, for eventually these two find a way of becoming inextricably intertwined. Now, gather all of your knowledge, your “bag of tools”, and contemplate the paths before you. Draw upon each of your experiences. Allow honesty and integrity to be your driving forces. What you are experiencing is the same as that which the Sage designed for his devoted pupil in the parable above… you are searching for the Light.

“… pursue it with purity, passion and integrity.”

Darkness is a part of every existence. Rather than approach it from a place of fear, embrace it as an opportunity to search for a way to illuminate your life in a manner you never before dreamed possible. You will know when you have found your Light.

Follow it with your heart; pursue it with purity, passion and integrity! Blessings for a new year filled with love, Light and opportunity!

Cathleen Kronemer, NSCA-CPT, J Personal Trainer & Certified Health Coach

“I had feelings of withdrawal and anxiety, wanting to know what my number every morning. While doing my best, apart from the scale, I found that I was making better food choices and getting to the gym more often. I lost weight and now I weigh myself only once a week.

Since then, I’ve felt considerably more motivated. I hadn’t even considered the scale to be such a big problem, but thanks to Paul’s insight and help, I broke the addiction!”

In the past year Jean has been on a tear. She participated in six 5K races and a 40-floor stair climb. She dropped several pant sizes and reduced her top size. She feels stronger than ever before and has more endurance, which she taps into as she continually learns how to push herself instead of quitting when things get tough. She even removed the scale from the 2013 resolutions, instead focusing on running a 10K in the spring, completing a half-marathon in the fall, improving her push-ups, eating more fruits and vegetables, and exercising 1,000 minutes per month.

Jean concludes that, “I am committed to pushing myself to consistently do more or go farther than whatever my previous effort was. I am talking about my health and fitness to my friends and family. I never used to mention my fitness goals to anyone, because I was afraid that I would not accomplish them. Now, I know that no matter how long it takes, I am going to meet my goals, and I want my success to inspire those around me, especially everyone who knew me as an inactive, over-eating individual. I want them to see that if I can do it, anyone can do it.” jccstl.org

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FITNESS

Bone Marrow Donation Helps Save a Life Giving from the Heart: Brittney Curtis

You can follow Brittney as she continues her quests of helping and compassion at bcurtis33.blogspot.com

According to the Jewish philosopher Maimonides, the highest form of charity is one which renders the recipient self-sufficient.

While this aspect of tzedakah can take on many faces, nowhere is it more evident than in the case of bone marrow donation.

Such an anonymous gift can mean the difference between life and death, and choosing to give of oneself in such a selfless manner is the action of a true angel.

Here at the J, we are blessed to have such an angel among us.

As a Desk Attendant for the past four years at the Staenberg Family Complex (SFC) Fitness Center, Brittney Curtis can always be found with a smile on her face and a kind word for anyone. Brittney learned at a young age the importance of treating others with kindness and love, regardless of their circumstances in life. Her family taught her that life did not center on her, but rather that it was a blessing to be a part of another individual’s life. Observing how her grandparents were always giving, never judging people on their difficulties, Brittney came to learn that showing love and affection towards the people in her life was one of her strongest traits.

Embracing this phenomenon, Brittney signed up with the Bone Marrow Registry in 2008, a year during which she was volunteering with a number of different organizations. The process was simple, involving nothing more than a “swab test” and filling out a questionnaire. During the ensuing months, she prayed frequently, asking God to please let her be the match for someone in need. Recently, upon receiving that all-important phone call, Brittney was actually in disbelief, having forgotten that she had signed up so long ago! After further blood tests, and another waiting period, she finally found out it was clearly meant to be. As Brittney puts it, “It’s not every day you’re chosen to be the bone marrow donor for a patient, to help save a life. The experience was a once in a lifetime opportunity that I wouldn’t have passed up on.”

Brittney chose not to tell too many people, since she didn’t wish to be influenced by any negativity. So many friends told her that it would hurt, and she grew tired of hearing this. “My prayers overshadowed any doubt that I could have had. My only hope is that people who do choose to be a donor don’t get influenced by others’ unfavorable views about giving bone marrow. When it comes to saving a life, you have to put your fears aside and go for it. My faith and optimism went a very long way throughout the process.”

After months of physical exams, blood tests and injections to prepare her body for the donation process, the day of the

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February-April 2013

Above: Brittney chats with J member Harriet May in the SFC fitness center.

Left: Brittney Curtis (wearing the J hat) at the JCC Day Camp with Special Needs campers.

procedure finally arrived. Brittney is proud to be able to say that the overall procedure was relatively painless. She will have to wait at least a year to have the opportunity to meet the recipient of her bone marrow, but looks forward to that day.

“We both have to sign consent forms to meet one another. If one person decides not to sign the form, then we can’t meet each other. However, I have high hopes that we will get to see one another. I think by far that will be the most emotional moment for me this year.”

In May of 2013, Brittney will graduate from Maryville University with a B.A. in Communications. She plans to work with AmeriCorps, which allows for people to do community service throughout the United States. Her focus has been centered on special needs and poverty. “I want to be a light in someone life.

I wouldn’t be living a life filled with purpose if I wasn’t lending my services to other people. Hopefully going into AmeriCorps will lead me into the Peace Corps.” Wherever life takes this courageous young woman, we are sure she will touch many hearts with her faith-affirming attitude and her ever-present and contagious smile!

Submitted by Cathleen Kronemer

SPORTS, REC & AQUATICS

Batter Up! The grand old game is alive and well at the J. Kids as young at three can get involved and learn the basics.

For kids in kindergarten and above, the J is your one-stop shop for league placement, jerseys, practices and more!

Girls in Sports, An Investment in the Future All-American Leads Soccer Clinic for Girls Celebrate the 27th annual National Girls and Women in Sports Day (NGWSD) at the J on Monday, February 18, 2013 from 9:00-11:45am with a Soccer Performance Clinic with instruction from former McDonald’s Collegiate All-American Christie Cigno. The event will be at the Staenberg Family Complex (Creve Coeur) and is open to girls in kindergarten through eighth grade.

The annual event commemorates the achievement and advances of female athletes since the passing of Title IX and their struggle for sports equality. This year’s national theme is “Girls in Sports, An Investment in the Future.” Since 2003 the J has celebrated NGWSD and will carry on the tradition this winter. The soccer clinic will feature Cigno and her staff offering soccer tips and drills focused on ball skills, speed and agility.

NGWSD began in 1987 as a day to remember Olympic volleyball player Flo Hyman for her athletic achievements and work assuring equality for women’s sports. Since that time, NGWSD has evolved into a day to acknowledge the past and recognize current sports achievements, the positive influence of sports participation, and the continuing struggle for equality and access for women in sports. NGWSD is jointly organized by several groups, including the Women’s Sports Foundation and the National Association for Girls and Women in Sports.

Register by contacting Natalie Lesko at 314-442-3104 or nlesko@jccstl.org

“As a full-time doctor, full-time father, and a little league coach, the J makes life easy for me. Team sign-ups, league fees, scheduling, uniforms, practice time and space, even end-of-the-season trophies – the J does it all for us. [They] are a coach’s best friends.”

- Coach Andy Z. Start Smart Baseball 3 year olds, begins March 31 Baseball Training League 4 to 5 year olds, begins March 31 Mac & Jeanette Brown Youth Baseball League K-8th graders, teams only, registration deadline February 15 Contact Chris Horan at 314-442-3498 or choran@jccstl.org and see how we can help you hit a homerun.

Swim Your Way into Spring Swim Academy – Start Swimming Today!

Group and private swim lessons are available. The next group sessions begin the week of April 3.

Swim for the Win Look for registration opportunities for the Alpha Waves Summer Swim Team this April.

A Summer Job by the Pool There are four options to get certified in the J’s American Red Cross Lifeguarding Courses. You choose, sessions begin in February, March, April and May. Space fills fast, reserve your spot today.

For further information on Aquatic activities, contact Kyle Fetick in Creve Coeur at 314-442-3296 or Marissa Koester in Chesterfield at 314-442-3495. jccstl.org

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NISHMAH

Learn About Micro-Lending at The Journey The Journey, Nishmah’s special women’s Passover program, occurs Tuesday, March 12. This year’s lineup includes a special micro-lending component. Micro-lending is a socio-economic tool utilizing small loans, sometimes as modest as $100. A portion of the program includes hearing a personal tale of an Israeli woman from our sister city of Yokneam and Megiddo, who achieved freedom through micro-loans.

These loans often help families support their financial needs and develop the self-esteem of those excluded from ordinary economic activity. Whether to purchase a bicycle, transport vegetables to a market, or acquire a sewing machine, people are enabled to start their own business. Participants will be able to also learn about local opportunities from organizations that offer micro-lending/financing as well as a chance to purchase products from female-owned businesses from Israel and around the world.

For more information, contact Simone Picker at 314-442-3166 or spicket @jccstl.org or visit nishmah.org

The Journey 2013

Music. Celebration.

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Nishmah is also delighted that the National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW), one of our organizational sponsors, offers their own mirco-financing program. “Of course $500 won’t move a woman from financial dependence to independence, but it may address an immediate crisis that will allow her to go to work every day, get training or remove a small roadblock that can seem insurmountable,” Ellen Alper, Executive Director of NCJW St. Louis commented.

Evening programming for The Journey will be focused on music, celebration and inspiration and allow those present to take a few minutes to think about and help women in the world that don’t have the same privileges. We encourage all women to please join us for this inspiring and meaningful evening as we celebrate our own freedom and help others to attain their own.

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Nishmah Continues Vision of Rebbetzin Rivkin Inaugural Memorial Lecture Nishmah has received funds from the Jewish Council Against Family violence (JCAFv) for education programs around family violence in memory of Rebbetzin Paula Rivkin, co-founder of JCAFv. Rebbetzin Rivkin, wife of the Chief Orthodox Rabbi of St. Louis, Rabbi Shalom Rivkin, was known for her community service, commitment to Judaism – Klal Yisrael, Jewish education and for being a good friend to many.

Her leadership in addressing domestic violence mobilized the community. She helped establish the JCAFv in support of any Jewish woman in need. Rebbetzin Rivkin was dedicated to the deeply held value that “to save a life, is as if you have saved the entire world.” Her goal was to make sure that every woman should have peace in her home.

Nishmah is honored to be able to take on the responsibility of educating the community around issues of domestic violence in memory of Rebbetzin Rivkin. Through these programs, Nishmah’s goal is to educate the St. Louis Jewish community about family violence, what it looks like, how to prevent it and to keep everyone aware of the resources available in the St. Louis community.

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Inaugural Lecture Features HUSH Nishmah and the St. Louis Jewish Book Festival are presenting the Inaugural Rebbetzin Rivkin Memorial Lecture featuring author Eishes Chayil (her alias) and her best-selling book HUSH. This fictional story is based on the author’s experience about family violence in the Brooklyn Orthodox community.

The presentation will be on Wednesday April 10, at 7:30pm at the Jewish Federations Kopolow Building. Contact the Jewish Book Festival Hotline, 314-442-3299, for tickets.

SENIORS

Tai Chi Offers Relaxation and Exercise Benefits While working in the offices of the Adult Day Center (ADC), the tai chi instructor, Craig Miller, can be overheard praising his pupils for yawning. “Most teachers do not like, or even get angry, when their students yawn in class. In tai chi, I like to see my students yawn. It’s a sign of relaxation and it means that you’re engaged in exercise,” says Miller, who has been leading the class at the ADC for the past six months. Relax while exercising?

My curiosity was piqued, recalls Sarah Levinson, Adult Day Center Case Worker.

Tai chi is a Chinese martial art practiced for defense training and its health benefits.

The practice originated in ancient China and was passed on through the generations by those who practiced variations of the art. Tai chi incorporates the Chinese concepts of yin and yang (two opposing yet complementary forces) and qi (the vital energy or life force). Practicing the movements of tai chi supports a healthy balance of yin and yang and fights off the blockage in the flow of qi that causes disease.

The art of tai chi is about achieving balance that is physical and emotional. Circular and spiral like motions help to foster and redirect energy throughout the body.

Channeling of this energy through slow, continuous, dance-like movements helps individuals to become flexible, strong and relaxed at the same time. Its gentle movements make tai chi an appealing exercise option for those with limited mobility or chronic illnesses that preclude strenuous physical activity.

Rigorous scientific studies have examined the benefits of tai chi, particularly for older adults and individuals with movement disorders. Most striking is the evidence that tai chi practice reduces the risk of falls because it increases strength and flexibility, develops better balance and coordination and improves concentration and increases awareness. This makes tai chi popular among those with movement disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease. Research also demonstrates that tai chi even augments the effectiveness of pharmaceutical treatments for depression in older adults.

Creating

a “home feeling” around the holidays allows people to celebrate with a sense of nostalgia. On January 3, the J’s Kitchen J held a festive Russian New Year’s party that catered to the many Russian residents of the Covenant House, with fun had by all! Over 140 people enjoyed the festivities as the party was incorporated into the meal at the JCC/MEAAA Dining Site.

A wonderful meal was followed

by Isaac Lifits singing and playing the accordion. Participants enjoyed dancing and listening to the familiar tunes throughout the evening. AW Healthcare (page 16) donated the delicious dessert of poppy seed cake. A Chinese New Year’s party is scheduled for February 11.

Contact Sheryl Trask at 314-442-3149 for a reservation.

Weekly tai chi classes have become a favorite activity for Adult Day Center participants and staff! We welcome you to schedule an appointment to tour our center and observe this relaxing, yet energizing form of exercise. Tai chi is generally done on Thursdays, beginning at 10:30am.

For more than thirty years, the Adult Day Center at the J has provided care and services that meet the needs of people who require assistance with daily living and want to remain living in the community. The program is licensed by the State of Missouri as an Adult Day Health program. Services are delivered by professional, caring staff who preserve the autonomy and dignity of participants while ensuring their safety and providing medical oversight. The program provides a variety of stimulating activities that promote cognitive, physical, and social engagement aimed at maintaining or improving current functional levels.

Tai chi at the Adult Day Center at the J is available thanks to the generosity of the Anna and Lillian Jossem Memorial Fund of the Jewish Federation of St. Louis. For more information on the Adult Day Center or to schedule a tour, contact Sarah Levinson at 314-442-3261 or slevinson@jccstl.org jccstl.org

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DEvELOPMENT

J Associates President Eleanor Wolff accepts a donation from Jim Guller and Mitch Waks of Cooperative Home Care.

People are the heart of the J. In the Donor Spotlight we provide a deeper look at some of the special gibborim (heroes) who help create the “community” of the J. Whether through contributions of time or donations, and often both, these special contributors regularly perform acts of chesed (loving kindness) and have helped to shape the J over the years and decades. Jim Guller and Mitch Waks met in BBYO years ago.

Little did they know they were creating a friendship that would reappear in their lives as adults. Now as partners running Cooperative Home Care, the pair is giving back to the J.

Introducing Jim Guller & Mitch Waks of Cooperative Home Care Ericka Zoll, Director of Development: How did the two of you meet?

Mitch Waks: Jim Guller and I first met in BBYO [B’nai B’rith Youth Organization] at our Albert Einstein chapter. We would get together every Tuesday night at the J. Most of the chapter stayed in touch throughout high school, college and even as adults. We also went to high school together at Parkway North.

EZ: What is Cooperative Home Care and what do you do?

Jim Guller: Cooperative Home Care’s business is to help people stay independent and rehabilitate through home care services. We make home care happen because we work with any funding, any amount of care and any skill level. As the President of the company, I focus on the success of our existing business and the services we offer including skilled services for Medicare, personal care programs through Medicaid and private service through long term care insurance, grants programs and self pay. One other service we offer is permanent placement and temporary staffing for health care organizations.

MW: As the CEO, my role at Cooperative is as the visionary of the company. I determine the path that our company will take to meet its objectives while at the same time, defining those objectives. It’s looking at the big picture, learning and knowing the industry trends to make sure we use them to our advantage.

For me, it’s about setting the tone and culture of the company, like sponsorships to worthy causes and organizations, so we can give back. My role also includes growth and acquisitions, mergers and building outside relationships. Our sponsorships show that we have a commitment not just to our patients but to the community at large.

EZ: What did you do professionally before you acquired Cooperative Home Care?

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MW: My mother-in-law started a version of Cooperative that was doing in home tutoring for the developmentally disabled.

That was her only clientele at the time. I was doing investment sales and I saw a lot of white papers come across my desk that said we should invest our goods and services in the aging population. At the time, my mother and father-in-law wanted to take time off. She was tutoring 6 – 12 clients. Because I had an education degree, my mother-in-law asked me to fill in while she was gone. I came in and began tutoring. It was then that I had the revelation that this tutoring business could be expanded from in-home tutoring to in-home health care. When she returned, she really didn’t want to do this, but I made her a deal that she wouldn’t have to do anything other than keep tutoring and I would take care of the rest. She really believed the money wasn’t important and people were what mattered. Her beliefs were how we set our value system. She agreed to continue to do in-home tutoring and I would take the company to in-home health care. All our growth has happened in the senior home care market to keep people in their homes because “there’s no place like home care.”

JG: I started my career at IBM in New York in corporate finance and then sales as an international account manager. I moved back to St. Louis in 1994 to work for Citation Computer Systems as a Director of Marketing and Business Planning.

Then, I spent two years at Express Scripts as vice President of Marketing. After six months of working at Cooperative Home Care as vice President of Sales and Marketing, Mitch invited me to join him as partner and 50% owner.

EZ: Tell me a little about each of your involvements in the St. Louis community and our Jewish Community as a child growing up in St. Louis as well as what you’ve done as adults.

JG: Growing up, my family belonged to Shaare Zedek and that’s where I had my Bar Mitzvah. As a teenager I was very active in BBYO at the J, which is where Mitch and I met. Upon my return to St. Louis as an adult, we joined B’nai Amoona and sent all three kids through Solomon Schechter Day School. I served on the Schechter Board, on the Executive Committee and was president of the Board for two years.

MW: In addition to BBYO, I went to all the J Day Camps.

And for many, many years, I attended Camp Sabra. My family belonged to Shaare Zedek where I had my Bar Mitzvah, but later we moved to B’nai Amoona while I attended Epstein Hebrew Academy. As a kid, I took several trips to Israel to visit family. My roots were very well established in Judaism. As an

DEvELOPMENT

adult, when looking for a new synagogue to be married in, I took my then fiancé around to several different congregations.

On the search we stumbled upon a small congregation meeting in the basement of a church (CRC). This was in 1988 and she loved it. We joined CRC and got married two years later. At CRC, I became involved in a variety of activities and eventually joined the Board (Reform Jewish Academy). Both my kids went to RJA and I feel it was the best thing I could do for them. My wife was the first president and founder of the Parents Association and I joined their Board. Our kids also went to [Camp] Sabra and were involved in youth groups and BBYO. EZ: This past year, you made a significant contribution to the J, as a sponsor of the St. Louis Jewish Book Festival and as the Presenting Sponsor of the J Associates fundraiser – Dancing in the Lou. What is it about the J that interests you and makes you want to points lend your support?

Introducing JCC Rewards & the New J Mobile App! JCC Rewards is a complimentary member appreciation program designed to reward you with valuable gifts!

Participate. Earn Points. Redeem for Prizes!

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JG: I feel it’s important to give back to the Jewish community that has been such a large part of my life. One way is to support organizations like the J that have been integral in my life. The other reason for our company to become a sponsor and lend support is so we can be a resource or an advocate for people that face challenges of dealing with aging parents or older adults in general. We know the services we offer at Cooperative Home Care can be of tremendous value to improve quality of life. We hope our sponsorship helps those in the community to know about us so we can become that resource.

MW: I think the J IS the Jewish community in St. Louis.

It is the hub where everything happens that is not religion based. Of course we need to support it. It is our community by definition, whether it’s the Adult Day Center, Day Camps, BBYO – everything the J does supports our community.

points

Earn 250 points just for activating your

account. Don’t know how? Activate at jccrewards.org, 1,250 points or ask a J Fitness or Desk staff member.

The brand new J Mobile App is ready to download! Now you can easily access exercise, pool and gym schedules from your mobile device, plus be the first to learn first about new programs and special events. The FREE J App is available for download at the iTunes Store and the Android Market.

Download Guidebook, select Download Guides, select Community Centers, select the St. Louis J. Show a staff member that you’ve downloaded the app, and we’ll reward you with 50 JCC

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1,250 points

Calling all Camp Wah-Kon-Dah Alumni

Presented by Cooperative Home Care All new St. Louis Favorites take the stage...

Saturday, March 2, 2013 The Pageant To purchase tickets online, visit jccstl.com/jassociates

It’s time to re-connect, reminisce and think about the glory days of Camp Wah-KonDah and Uncle Benny Kessler. A committee of Wah-Kon-Dah alumni recently got the ball rolling for a Wah-Kon-Dah Social/ Meeting on Wednesday, February 27 at the Staenberg Family Complex.

Annual membership is only $36, and first year alumni receive a complimentary t-shirt. Funds raised benefit the Camp Sabra Scholarship Fund. For information, visit campsabra.com/alumni For more information about the social event oralumni association, contact Julie Gibbs at julie@campsabra.com or 314-442-3254. jccstl.org

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Tributes We gratefully acknowledge contributions to the JCC Tribute Funds. Tributes given as a memorial or to honor a loved one, special achievement or occasion, extend the generosity of the donor by supporting vital programs and services. Following are the contributions received between October 17, 2012 and January 16, 2013.

VISIT JCCSTL.ORG TO SEND A TRIBUTE ONLINE Evelyn and Louis Myers Cultural Arts Scholarship Fund In honor of the special birthday of Lou Myers from: Mr. and Mrs. Harold Sher from: Mr. and Mrs. Irvin Fagin from: Mr. and Mrs. Jerome Brasch from: Mr. David Reiter from: Ms. Barbara Savan from: Ms. Elsie Roth Inclusion Programs/ Fit For Life/Theatre Unlimited In honor of the birth of Norah Benton Schechter from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels In memory of Gertrude Recht from: Mr. and Mrs. Gary Growe from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels from: Mr. and Mrs. Steven Rosenzweig Marsha Appt Single Parent Family in Need Fund In memory of Marsha Appt from: Members of the University City Senior High School Class of 1963 from: Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Goodman from: Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Levin from: Mr. and Mrs. David Capes from: Mr. and Mrs. David Marcus from: Mr. and Mrs. Glen Slay from: Mr. and Mrs. Howard Walton from: Mr. and Mrs. Joel Kamil from: Mr. and Mrs. Mark Temkin from: Mr. and Mrs. Mark Walton from: Mr. and Mrs. Mel Goldman from: Mr. and Mrs. Robert Balk from: Mr. and Mrs. Robert Medow from: Mr. and Mrs. Roger Markland from: Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Gibbs from: Mr. and Mrs. Sanford Scott from: Mr. and Mrs. Steven Schwartz from: Mr. and Mrs. van Cailteux from: Mr. C. J. Kingsley from: Mr. Joel Fredlich from: Mr. Ronald Katz from: Mrs. Carole Simon from: Mrs. Diana Barnholtz from: Mrs. Lois Lefton from: Mrs. Louise Mass from: Mrs. Roberta Frank from: Mrs. Roberta Horwitz from: Ms. Karen Eddiger In memory of June Eidelman from: Mr. and Mrs. Robert Rubin Nancy and Al Siwak Fund In honor of the special birthday of Nancy Siwak from: Mr. and Mrs. John Isaacs from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels from: Mr. and Mrs. Marty Oberman from: Mr. Stephen Loeb and Mrs. Rochelle Weiss from: Ms. Charlene Bry from: Ms. Ericka Zoll from: Ms. Judy Glik Nishmah Program In honor of Lynne Palan from: Mrs. Debra Polinsky

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February-April 2013

“As my parents planted for me before I was born, so we plant for our children.” -Talmud In honor of Molly, Natalie and Jeffrey Dicker from: Mrs. Marjorie Lewitt In honor of the birthday of Kim Jacobs from: Mrs. Randee Jacobs In honor of the birthday of Pam Lester from: Mrs. Bunny Gerstenfeld Norman S. Karty Memorial Fund In memory of Betty Ruth Coogman from: Mrs. Judy Kaplan Mac & Jeanette Brown Youth Sports Fund In honor of Marty Oberman receiving the 2012 Irene Fox Ruach Award from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown In honor of the Bar Mitzvah of Ari Singer from: Mr. and Mrs. Gregory Siwak In honor of the Bar Mitzvah of the grandson of Bob and Maureen Greenberg from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown In honor of the birth of Aliza Sarah Osofsky from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown In honor of the birth of Max Ryan Oberman from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels In honor of the marriage of the granddaughter of Harvey and Edie Brown from: Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Siwak In honor of the special birthday of Alan Turken from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown In honor of the special birthday of Bob Greenberg from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown In honor of the special birthday of Harvey Brown from: Dr. Steve and Dr. Deborah Cavalier from: Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Siwak In honor of the special birthday of Harvey Gershenson from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown In honor of the special birthday of Paul Mendelson from: Mr. and Mrs. Charles Eisenkramer In honor of the special birthday of Phyllis Newman from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown In honor of the special birthday of Stanley Hoffman from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown In honor of the speedy recovery of Gail Eisenkramer from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown In honor of The speedy recovery of vicki Osherow from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown In memory of Alan Bernstein from: Mr. and Mrs. Sanford Pomerantz In memory of Elaine Goldberg from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown Samuel T. Brown Memorial Scholarship Fund for Children In honor of the birthday of Marvin Rosengarten from: Ms. vickie Moskowitz Camp Sabra Scholarship Fund In honor of Nathan, new grandson of Bobbi and Larry Potashnick from: Mr. and Mrs. Michael Ferman In honor of the birth of Jonah Isaac Abeles from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels from: Mr. and Mrs. Steven Rosenzweig Zola Carp Fund for Children In memory of Alan Bernstein from: Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Carp In memory of Marvin Waronoff from: Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Carp

Staenberg Early Childhood Center Fund In honor of the birth of Gabriella Annaliese Wolman from: Mr. and Mrs. Steven Rosenzweig In honor of the speedy recovery of Joey Goldwasser from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels In memory of Al Cohen from: Mr. and Mrs. Terry Cohen In memory of Myra Grossman from: Mr. and Mrs. Gary Growe Marlyn Essman Cultural Enrichment Program for Children In honor of the 60th Wedding Anniversary of Edwin and Lenore Pepper from: Mr. and Mrs. Alyn Essman In honor of the Bat Mitzvah of Izzy, granddaughter of Marlyn and Alyn Essman from: Mr. and Mrs. Marty Oberman In honor of the birthday of Lenore Pepper from: Mr. and Mrs. Alyn Essman In honor of the special birthday of Edwin Pepper from: Mr. and Mrs. Alyn Essman In honor of the special birthday of Nancy Siwak from: Mr. and Mrs. Alyn Essman Bernie & Ruth Fischlowitz Camp Sabra Scholarship Fund In honor of the birth of Hannah Fischlowitz Davis from: Mr. and Mrs. Merle Fischlowitz Shelly Fisher Memorial Scholarship Fund In honor of the 50th Wedding Anniversary of Lanie and Milton Goldenberg from: Mrs. Sue Fisher In honor of the marriage of Katie Goldenberg and Jeffrey Winters from: Mrs. Joyce Jacobs In memory of Nancy Weiler from: Mrs. Sue Fisher The Fitness Center In memory of James Pedersen’s Great Aunt verla from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels from: Mr. and Mrs. Steven Rosenzweig Sam & Marilyn Fox and Edwin & Lenore Pepper Friendship Scholarship Fund In honor of Lenore and Edwin Pepper from: Mrs. Sylvia Rogers In honor of Marilyn Fox receiving the Webster University visionary Award from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels In honor of Sam and Marilyn Fox from: Mrs. Sylvia Rogers In honor of the Bar Mitzvah of Moishe Newman from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox In honor of the birth of Jonah Isaac Abeles from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox In honor of the birth of Norah Benton Schechter from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox In honor of the speedy recovery of Gayle Palmer from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox In honor of the speedy recovery of Joel Levy from: Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Pepper In memory of Bernard Gaillet from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox In memory of Daniel Changer from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox In memory of David Susskind from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox In memory of Edith Frank from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox In memory of Elaine Goldberg from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox

In memory of Gertrude Recht from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox In memory of Jim Shillito from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox In memory of Lorraine Foley from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox In memory of Mary Polon from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox In memory of Ray Wagner, Sr. from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox In memory of Tozia George from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox Grossman Iron & Steel Company Meyer A. Golder Memorial Scholarship Fund In honor of Jerry and Linda Meyers from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler In honor of the special birthday of Dr. Bob Maisel from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler In honor of the special birthday of Harvey Brown from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler In honor of the special birthday of Harvey Gershenson from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler In honor of the speedy recovery of Phil Kaplan from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler In honor of the speedy recovery of Susie Zimmerman from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler In memory of Alan Bernstein from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler In memory of Becky Goldberg from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler In memory of Dr. Charles and Fay Druck from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler In memory of Estelle Slumpsky from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler In memory of Randy Keyser from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler Scott & Bruce Goldstein Camp Sabra Scholarship Fund In honor of Irving Goldstein and Family from: Dr. and Mrs. Harvey Glazer In honor of the 90th Birthday of Phyllis Schain from: Mr. Irving Goldstein Faye & John Greenberg Garden Fund In honor of the special birthday of Bob Greenberg from: Mr. and Mrs. Charles Eisenkramer from: Mr. and Mrs. Richard Linkemer from: Mrs. Shirley Weiss Jewish Book Festival Fund In honor of the speedy recovery of Joel Levy from: Mr. and Mrs. Charles Eisenkramer In memory of the father of Julie Schack from: Mrs. Kitty Gross Bernard & Myrtle Kornblum Fund In memory of Edith Frank from: Mrs. Carole Simon In memory of Paula Kipnis from: Mrs. Carole Simon Joy & Fred Levin Day Care Fund In honor of Dr. Ed Nagel from: Dr. and Mrs. Fred Levin In memory of Mary Weinberg from: Dr. and Mrs. Fred Levin Dr. Herbert A. Mazur Children’s Fund In honor of the special birthday of June Bierman from: Dr. and Mrs. Saul Silvermintz In honor of the speedy recovery of Dr. Martin Bergmann from: Dr. and Mrs. Saul Silvermintz In memory of Thea Spiegel from: Dr. and Mrs. Saul Silvermintz

Helene Mirowitz Center of Jewish Community Life In honor of the 40th Birthday of Dr. Jeffrey Small from: Mr. and Mrs. Joe McNew In honor of the retirement of Lesley Levin from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels In honor of the special birthday of Bob Greenberg from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Gerstein In honor of the special birthday of Edwin Pepper from: Mr. and Mrs. Paul Gallant In honor of the special birthday of Helene Mirowitz from: Mr. and Mrs. Albert Rose In honor of the speedy recovery of Maxine Mirowitz from: Mr. and Mrs. Lee Bernstein Stevan J. Newmark Health Club Fund In honor of the speedy recovery of Linda Finkle from: Mr. and Mrs. David Marcus In memory of Stevan Newmark from: Mr. and Mrs. Michael Newmark Sally & Sol Plattner Chess Program Fund In honor of the birthday of Ellen Horwitz from: Mr. and Mrs. Henry Schneider In honor of the marriage of Josh and Ally Parshall from: Mr. and Mrs. Henry Schneider In memory of Aaron Feigenbloom from: Mr. and Mrs. Henry Schneider Morris & Birdie Potashnick Camp Sabra Scholarship Fund In honor of the 30th Anniversary of Bergman Schraier & Company from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Potashnick Harry S. Quicksilver Fund In honor of Dr. and Mrs. Robert Bortnick & Family from: Mrs. Bernice Mange In honor of Mr. and Mrs. Al Schneider from: Mrs. Bernice Mange In honor of Mr. and Mrs. Holden Baker from: Mrs. Bernice Mange In honor of Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Griffith from: Mrs. Bernice Mange In honor of the birth of Sam Bortnick from: Mrs. Bernice Mange Maurice Rich Youth Maccabi Scholarship Fund In honor of the 80th Birthday of Marty Bell from: Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Goodkin Adult Services Nutrition Program In honor of the speedy recovery of Alice Ludmer from: Mr. and Mrs. Don Sherman Mollie Sher Day Camp Scholarship Fund In memory of Marvin Davidson from: Mr. and Mrs. Harold Sher Harold Spiegelglass Camp Shalom Scholarship Fund In memory of Arthur Rubin from: Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Fischer JCC Tribute Fund In honor of Bill and Linda Lamers from: Mrs. vickie Tsiaklides In honor of the 90th Birthday of Bob Jacques from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels In honor of the speedy recovery of Gail Eisenkramer from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels In memory of Bob Slosberg from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels

We gratefully acknowledge the ongoing involvement and support of our JCC Board of Directors.

Chair Jonathan J. Deutsch Vice Chair Bethe M. Growe Vice Chair Mark Gellman Vice Chair Jane T. Rubin Vice Chair Stacy B. Siwak Treasurer Michael Ferman Assistant Treasurer Mark Feldman Secretary Mark A. Cantor Assistant Secretary I. Richard Levy Board Members Bette Abeles Eli M. Abeles Cynthia L. Albin Marc H. Alper Robert E. Bertman Bruce J. Berwald, M.D. Laurie Chod Ted Flom Steven L. Goldenberg Howard T. Handelman Margie Hartman David R. Kaiser Mark C. Kodner Thom E. Kuhn Debbie K. Lefton Howard N. Lesser Ronald Light Alice M. Ludmer Felicia M. Malter Neil A. Marglous Sarah S. Oberman Monte L. Sandler Eileen Schechter Judith R. Scissors David Sherman III Julie B. Stern Scott M. Stern Elaine M. Tenzer Harvey N. Wallace Eleanor G. Wolff Lifetime Board Members Harvey M. Brown* Charles C. Eisenkramer* Marlyn Essman* Marilyn Fox* Harris Frank* Paul J. Gallant* Harvey S. Gershenson* Harvey Gerstein* Howard Hearsh* Frank A. Jacobs* William Kahn Lucy Lopata Helene Mirowitz Martin E. Oberman* Lenore R. Pepper* Sanford E. Pomerantz* Jerome Raskas* Todd Siwak* Michael H. Staenberg* Morris H. Sterneck* Marvin S. Wool *Past Presidents jccstl.org

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The perfect camp for your kid!

All the elements of a great summer.

Sports • Arts • LEGO® • Girls-Only Sports • Teen Camp • Counselors in Training Gymnastics • Water Park Camp • Lunch option • Before- and aftercare Red Cross Swim Lessons • Much, much more!

Two convenient locations • Sibling Discounts • Best camp staff in St. Louis!

More information at jccstl.org

ations Applic 2013 VAILABLE NOW A

The most action-packed summer available.

360 wooded acres 3.5 private shoreline miles 1 magical summer 314-442-3151

campsabra.com

facebook.com/campsabra

Looking ahead…

FEBRUARY 1 3

Pilates Reformer Sessions start over (every month) Day Camp Early Registration Day

3-7 7-24 8 9-10

Used Book Sale

9-10 16-21 17 28

Hazon CSA Registration Deadline

3

Start Smart & Youth Floor Hockey begins

2 5

Dancing in the Lou

3

JBF – The Secrets of Happy Families

Maccabi Basketball Academy begins

3

Floor Hockey League begins (adults)

Tot Shabbat

9th Annual Indoor Triathlon

11

Spring Break Camps begin

Jewish Family Film Festival

12

Nishmah’s Passover Journey

Tot Shabbat

Festival of Jewish Life Rockfest National Music Festival JBF – Jewish Jocks: An Unorthodox Hall of Fame

18-22

Matzah Mania: Preparing for Passover (for kids)

Sports Spring Break Camps

4 4-14 6 9

Mah Jongg Classes begin NJT – Conviction 4th Annual Open Handball Tournament Creative Dance, Ballet & Tap begins (kids)

10 11 12 14 18

JBF – Hush

22

Competitive Coed volleyball League begins (adults)

First Day of Spring!

25

JCC Meal Site hosts Passover Seders

26 31

J is closed for Passover

25

Start Smart & Training League Baseball begin

JBF – The House of Special Purpose

27

31

NFL Spring Flag Football (Youth)

JBL (Spring) Basketball League begins

YT – Goin’ Buggy YT – Goin’ Buggy J closes at 5pm for Passover

MAY 9 12 15 16

YT – The Little Mermaid

17

Camp Sabra – Dad & I Weekend

YT – The Little Mermaid J is closed for Shavuot NJT – Shlemiel the First opens

24-27

Camp Sabra – Family Weekend

25 23-27 27

Outdoor pools open Senior Olympics J is open 8am-5pm for Memorial Day

YT – Guys and Dolls

21 21 24 25

Like us on Facebook

facebook.com/jccstl February-April 2013

APRIL

1

8 10

NJT – Speed-The-Plow

NJT – New Jewish Theatre JBF – Jewish Book Festival YT – Youth Theatre

20

MARCH

Tot Shabbat YT – Guys and Dolls Men’s Spring Basketball begins

Monthly & ongoing Programs • Playgroups & Open Play • BBYO for teens • Jewish Film Society (Mar-May) • Adult Day Center at the J • Alzheimer’s Support Groups • volunteer Opportunities Most fitness programs are ongoing and can be joined at anytime!

For locations, times and contact information, visit jccstl.org