J Journal - March-May 2015

Changes at Camp Sabra

INSIDE

March - May 2015 / Adar – Iyar 5775

Seeing Double

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From the Rabbi...

Appreciate Your Freedom Every Day “In each generation every person is obligated to see one’s self as if he/she fled Egypt.”

This quote comes from the Jewish text known as the Haggadah, the guidebook used in celebration of the upcoming holiday of Passover when the Jewish community celebrates our freedom from slavery thousands of years ago. The rabbis instruct us each personally to relive the experience so that when we retell the story we appreciate our freedom and do not take it for granted.

We must imagine ourselves as if we were in our ancestor’s shoes to really understand and appreciate the freedom we have until this day.

Rabbi Brad Horwitz

Rabbi Nachman of Breslov, a famous rabbi from the late 18th/ early 19th century and founder of the Breslov Hasidic movement, has a similar quote. He said, “The Exodus from Egypt occurs in every person, in every era, in every year, and in every day.” Rabbi Nachman takes it one step further than the rabbis of the Haggadah. It’s not merely reliving the experience in every generation or just during Passover, but now the exodus is something that we relive every day. It is a part of our identity and who we are as Jews.

If we wait between generations or only during Passover, the story might get lost or changed. We need to make our freedom happen now and appreciate our freedom every day. There is a sense of urgency and immediacy.

When I think about this, I realize how much it rings true. I often take my freedom for granted. Yes, I think about it during Passover and maybe even during Thanksgiving or other times of the year, but not on a daily basis for sure. We all know that many, many people all over the world do not enjoy the freedoms we have, be it in the realm of religion, politics, economics, press or others. Passover reminds us of how fortunate we are to enjoy the freedoms we possess. Let us take this moment to do this on a more regular basis so that we can advocate and fight for those who still are enslaved around the world. Best wishes for a happy season of renewal and freedom!

Chag Sameach,

Rabbi Brad Horwitz

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Contents 2 Rabbi Brad 3 Songleader Bootcamp 4 J Day Camps 6 New Jewish Theatre 7 Youth Theatre Leadership 8 Camp Sabra Funding 9 Twins at the Family Center 10 Meet the Trainer 11 Cathleen’s Column 12 Fitness Success 13 Reformer Pilates 14 Youth Basketball 15 Nancee Glaser Leads Special Class 15 Get Ready for Senior Olympics 16 ADC Music Therapy 17 Tributes 19 Board of Directors 20 JProStl Awards 20 Looking Ahead

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Day Camps

Twins

OUR MISSION

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Camp Sabra

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Music Therapy

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.

SONGLEADER BOOT CAMP

Songleaders Nationwide Gather at the J

Scenes from Songleader Boot Camp, February 15-17, 2015

Over the course of three days in February, the 2015 Songleader Boot Camp (SLBC) reigned over the J. This national conference offers one of the top Jewish leadership training opportunities in the country led by nationally renowned Jewish leaders, educators and musical artists. SLBC taught the more than 220 participants about the several vehicles they have to generate powerful, interactive connections, expand leadership abilities, and learn specific skills and techniques to inspire change in their communities. SLBC offers a profound exploration of the physiology, psychology, strategy and execution behind explosive Jewish teaching and songleading.

SLBC is available for rabbis, cantors, lay leaders, teachers, songleaders, Jewish camping staff and so many more people who have an impact on their communities.

You didn’t need to be a musician, as music is just one of the vehicles explored during the invaluable learning weekend. ”There is no other conference in the world that gives the preparation and tools that SLBC provides! Even if you are a pro, you leave on a whole new level!” says Abbie Strauss, Cantorial Soloist from Temple Israel in Columbus, OH. Rabbi Sharon Brous, in from Los Angeles remarked, “I have never seen anything like this in any other environment. The level of inspiration is so high and the commitment to translation is so significant. It seems like the perfect combination!”

Founded in 2009 by nationally touring artist and educator Rick Recht and Rabbi Brad Horwitz, Director, Jewish Engagement and Adult Programs at the J, the SLBC offers participants from across the United States to experience conferences and leadership training throughout the year. Its purpose was to create immersive, inspirational and strategic Jewish leadership programs for Jewish clergy, educators and songleaders. Rabbi Brad says that the “main goal at SLBC is to provide an amazingly transformative change for the Jewish world.”

Songleader Joe Buchanan from Congregation Shaare Hashalom in Houston, TX calls his time at SLBC life-changing. “The mentors, the music, and the support was more than I could have hoped for. SLBC gave me the confidence and tools I needed to get up and get moving.”

In the past year, SLBC has also provided on-site leadership training seminars for the USCJ Cantors Assembly, PJ Library National Conference, USCJ Jewish Educators Assembly, communities and synagogues across the United States.

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SIGNATURE J DAY CAMPSMALL GROUP TRAINING

Being a Kid Has Never Been So Much Fun

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Day Camp Magic Coming Soon tart planning your children’s warm weather activities today – like day camp at the J! No one should let our crazy winter distract you from all the fun that’s just around the corner. Allow your child to daydream about pools, friends, shaving cream fights, Ga Ga, works of art and more as you get him and/or her registered for 2015 J Day Camps.

This is the perfect time to make sure your child has a summer of silliness and smiles!

J Day Camps provide campers the chance to

summer 2014. He wasn’t new to the J, or the camp director position, but joined for the St. Louis staff in this important leadership role and jumped right in. Chotner’s bottom line is simply to make sure every child has a smile on his or her face, and making everyone feel at home.

“When I started as Director of the J Day camps, I quickly came to love what a welcoming environment our camps provide,” says Chotiner. “Both campers and staff really make everyone feel a part of the camp family. Whether it is your first day or your fifth year at our

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camps, you are made to feel you belong. It is an honor to be director at a camp with such positive values.” make new friends, build selfesteem and create lifelong memories. Our staff is well trained, and includes directors and specialists who work at the J year round.

They have a passion for working with children and an expertise in creating quality programming to ensure each camper has a great time experiencing new things all summer long. They pack a year’s worth of fun into just 11 weeks – whether sports, arts, technology and more – there’s something for everyone!

Brad Chotiner began as the J’s Day Camp Director prior to

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March - May 2015

Chotiner calls out another area of camp that he considers one of the biggest advantages in attanding – the opportunities to swim! Whichever location you may call home, campers receive either certified swim instruction or enjoy recreational swimming every day. Campers will slide, swing and splash their way to daily pool fun.

“One of the most unique things about J Day Camps is the number of opportunities our campers get to swim,” says Chotiner. “Swimming has always been one of my favorite camp activities, and you can’t beat a camp where you get to swim every day.”

J DAY CAMP

Truly Something for Everyone

The J encourages diversity and inclusiveness for everyone, and camp is no exception. Campers of all backgrounds and abilities are welcome and encouraged to soak up the summer at the J. Although J Day Camps instill Jewish values, it is done so in a way that appeals to people of all faiths.

The J also offers inclusion assistance to campers with developmental disabilities who may need support at camp.

Jasmine Rangel, Inclusion Coordinator at the J, oversees the service, and explains that it’s tailored to all individuals with special needs. All decisions are discussed among the parents, camper and Inclusion Coordinator to make the experience as smooth and beneficial to the child as possible.

More Info

Members of the J receive the benefit of member pricing on all Day Camps, but, we can’t hold your spot! Sign up early to secure your campers spot in his/her favorite camp. And if you’re interested in J Day Camps, but not sure which camp to pick, grab a Camp Guide from either J and take a look, and check it out online (http://www.jccstl.com/programs/daycamps-sabra/day-camps).

For more information about J Day Camps, contact Brad Chotiner, 314-442-3423, bchotiner@jccstl.org For more information about the J’s Inclusion program, contact Jasmine Rangel, 314-442-3295, jrangel@jccstl.org

“The Inclusion Department is a very unique aspect of our camp.

It enriches the environment of camp for everyone involved, including campers, counselors, directors and families. Our inclusion support brings a sense of community to camp because our inclusion campers

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learn acceptance from their peers while our other campers learn empathy and kindness,” says Rangel. “Campers who receive inclusion support come back to the J summer after summer because our camp environment is enriching, enthusiastic and a great place to spend the summer.”

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CULTURAL ARTS

New Jewish Theatre Recognized with a Dozen Nominations Sight Unseen Takes Stage with Real Life Couple New Jewish Theatre (NJT) Artistic Associate Bobby Miller directs Donald Margulies’ Sight Unseen this March at the J. The play, which runs March 12 – 29, touches on many contradictory issues such as assimilation and tradition, cultural identity and individual autonomy, artistic purity and compromise as it tells the story of Brooklyn born Jewish artist Jonathan Waxman and his meteoric rise to fame. Waxman’s work is so coveted that people buy it ‘sight unseen.’ In Europe for a retrospective of his work, he visits the English cottage where his former lover and muse, Patricia, is living with her husband, Jonathan.

For this production, stirring old passions Aaron Orion Baker should not be difficult as the roles of Jonathan and Patricia are played by real life husband and wife, Aaron Orion Baker and Emily Baker. They have worked together twice Emily Baker before and are very excited to be working on this production together.

Purchase tickets at newjewishtheatre.org or the box office at 314-442-3283.

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March - May 2015

The third annual St. Louis Theater Circle Awards scheduled for late March, honor work done by professional theatres in the St. Louis area. The J’s New Jewish Theatre (NJT) was recently honored with an even dozen nominations for its outstanding work done in 2014. From the 2014-15 season, The Diary of Anne Frank received seven nominations, while four nods went to The Price. This was the most nominations any theatre received in the category of dramas. The Whipping Man, from the 2013-14 season, received the other nomination.

Several nominations honored individual achievements in a production, but both Anne Frank and The Price were recognized as nominees for Outstanding Ensemble and Outstanding Production of a Drama. NJT associate artistic director Bobby Miller earned two nominations individually for his performances in both productions.

A complete list of NJT nominations:

The Diary of Anne Frank Outstanding Ensemble in a Drama Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama (Amy Loui) Outstanding Actress in a Drama (Samantha Moyer) Outstanding Actor in a Drama (Bobby Miller) Outstanding Director of a Drama (Gary Wayne Barker) Outstanding Production of a Drama Outstanding Set Design in a Play (Jim Burwinkel) The Price Outstanding Ensemble in a Drama Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama (Bobby Miller) Outstanding Production of a Drama Outstanding Set Design in a Play (Mark Wilson) The Whipping Man Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama (Gregory Fenner)

The St. Louis Theater Circle Awards ceremony is Monday, March 23, at the Center of Creative Arts (COCA), 524 Trinity Avenue in University City and is open to the community. Help cheer on NJT as awards are announced.

The gala begins at 7pm. Tickets are $15 and can be reserved by contacting the COCA box office at 314-725-6555, info@cocastl.org. Tickets are also available at the COCA box office beginning at 6pm on the night of the event.

Diary of Anne Frank

The Price

CULTURAL ARTS

Youth Actors Receive Diverse & Professional Direction The Youth Theatre’s directors, assistant directors, choreographers, musical directors and others bring with them a wealth of knowledge and experience. They offer along a youthful exuberance making the young stars shine on stage!

Theatre Chaverim’s Teacher of the Year

Angie Hetz has been directing Theatre Chaverim (3rd-5th grade) since the fall of 2013. A Drama teacher at Parkway Southwest Middle School in her “real life,” Angie was recently named her school’s “Teacher of the Year” and was a top five finalist for the Parkway School District Middle School Teacher of the Year. She has proven able to connect with a broad range of children and is truly at the top of her profession.

Youth Theatre actor Andrew Goldberg concurs that “Miss Angie” is great to work with. “I like to make new friends and I think Miss Angie is doing a great job,” says Andrew.

The current Theatre Chaverim production of How to Eat Like a Child also welcomed new staff members, Musical Director Paul Cereghino and Choreographer Stefanie Kluba. Cereghino is a piano accompanist for Parkway North Middle School, a musician and was recently nominated by the St. Louis Circle Awards as Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy – The Little Dog Laughed, performed with Stray Dog Theatre. Kluba is also a local actor and recently appeared in the seven-time nominated production of the J’s New Jewish Theatre’s The Diary of Anne Frank, including Outstanding Ensemble in a Drama.

Theatre Kochavim’s Touch of Disney

Theatre Kochavim (K-2nd grade) welcomed Assistant Director Shelby Lewis this winter. Shelby is a Musical Theatre major at Lindenwood University in her senior year. She recently returned from working as a Cast Member at Walt Disney World and plans to return upon graduation. Kochavim Director Susie Wirthlin is an actor and teaching artist, heavily involved with the St. Louis Shakespeare Festival.

Angie Hetz

Young Stars Shine in Upcoming Productions Our talented directors and production staff want you to see all the hard work that the students have put into these three productions. There is something for everyone and you’re kids will love the show!

Theatre Kochavim Stefanie Kluba

Shelby Lewis

Anansi and the Moss Covered Rock Thursday, March 26 • 7pm Sunday, March 29 • 3:30pm

Theatre Chaverim Susie Wirthlin

Liz Pietrzak

How to Eat Like a Child Thursday, May 7 • 7pm Sunday, May 10 • 3:30pm

Teen Theatre’s Vast Experience

Liz Pietrzak, Teen Theatre Director, has been with the J since 2009. In addition to directing, Liz owns Center Stage Dance Studio in Florissant where she and Assistant Director, Brittany Lerdahl teach. Brittany’s extensive dance background has served well as choreographer for both Theatre Chaverim and Teen Theatre. Ron Robinson, Teen Theatre’s Musical Director, is additionally a composer and conductor having worked not only in St. Louis but in Europe. He is currently composing music for Green United, a music publishing company for film directors in Paris.

Looking the Part is Key

Costume Designer Katie Donovan is providing her expertise to both How to Eat Like a Child and Seussical Jr. in her first semester with the J. She is creating the wonderful costumes through her dedication and creativity developed from working with several local theater companes, including St. Louis Shakespeare, Magic Smoking Monkey Theater, Upstream Theatre, and Opera Theater of St. Louis to name but a few.

Teen Theatre Brittany Lerdahl

Seussical Jr. Thursday, April 30 • 7pm Sunday, May 3 • 3:30pm Ron Robinson

Tickets

Tickets can be purchased through the J Box Office, by calling 314-442-3175 or through brownpapertickets.com Katie Donovan

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YOUTH

Matching grant funding new construction at Camp Sabra

By David Baugher, Special to the Jewish Light Some campers who return to the Jewish Community Center’s facilities in the Lake of the Ozarks will find new digs this summer thanks to a matching grant from the Staenberg Family Foundation.

2014 Camp Sabra Fun

“It was in part because of great need and in part because we saw the impact of new and wonderful facilities here at the J,” said Lynn Wittels, president and CEO of the J. “Camp Sabra has been here for so many years. It has such an incredible legacy serving both the St. Louis Jewish Community and really the entire country.”

The foundation has issued a $1.5 million matching grant to help fund six new cabins at Sabra, which have replaced an equal number of the camp’s 30 housing units. Four went up last summer and two were built previously. The dollars will also back the construction of two new shower houses with construction of the girls’ facility already underway.

About $800,000 has already been collected through the effort. Philanthropist Michael Staenberg says the money is part of roughly a million dollars he has dedicated to the camp over the years.

“I’ve been a big supporter of the JCC,” said Staenberg, whose family name is also on the organization’s $23-million Millstone Campus facility, which opened in 2009. “One of the things that helps the Jewish community is a strong overnight camp. Besides day schools, camping probably the number one reason people remain identified to Judaism and how they want to practice as Jews.”

The additions are part of an ongoing series of recent upgrades at Sabra, which include new swim and sail docks and a new health center.

Part of that work was the construction of the new Fox Family Theater. At the dedication for the facility, Wittels said it became clear what a big impact the revamp was having on the campers.

“The stories the kids and the counselors came down and shared with the Foxes were just heartwarming,” she said. “Tears came to my eyes. Tears came to their eyes.”

Programmatic improvements are also set for this year including human foosball and expansions to the stand-up paddleboard program. Camp leadership said enrollment was strong for 2015 with some age groups already at capacity.

“We are in such great form,” said camp director Terri Grossman in an email statement.

“We’re hitting on all cylinders — registration is way, way up. Families are excited about camp, and kids are bringing their friends. All the renovations make beautiful backdrops for the incredible programming we’re offering by our amazing staff.”

“We can’t thank the Staenbergs enough for their incredible generosity,” she said.

To donate to the camp, contact Grossman at terri@campsabra.com or call 314-442-3180. For more general information regarding the facility and scheduling, contact Kim Holtzman Sloan at kim@campsabra or call 314-442-3151.

Reprinted with permission from the St. Louis Jewish Light. Visit the Light online at stljewishlight.com

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YOUTH

Creating Connections in the Family Center Raising a young child comes with questions, concerns and a learning curve. That’s where the Family Center at the J can help!

From providing classes aimed at helping children grow to providing a place where families can connect and socialize, the Family Center is a resource from which both parents and children benefit. The Centers offer interactive play areas for young children, while parents can bond with other adults and share unique stories that come with child rearing. Children can explore and learn through music, arts and crafts and more, while making new friends.

“Parents love that they can talk with other parents while their children are enjoying our classes and events,” said Emilie Brockman, Coordinator at the Staenberg Family Complex (SFC) Family Center. “They love to talk about the stage of life where their children are – who’s giving up their sippy cup, who is thinking about preschool and just what other families are doing.”

Seeing Double

The Family Center has provided an especially unique community for three families with one common trait – all are raising twins. The twins range from nine months to two years. These families have used the Family Center as a place of support for their busy households and to connect with other parents.

“I’ve made a ton of friends with the members through Open Play. It’s so engaging and fun to meet new people and play with their children,” says Kelly Benavides, mom to two-year-old twins, Oliver and Lucas, and seven-year-old, Christian. “Being a stay at home mom can sometimes be challenging, but having a place to go watch your children interact and while talking with other parents is so great!”

Creating a Comfort Zone

Community is an important concept at the Family Center. Those who attend programming, from special events to Open Play, appreciate how the Center is a place that feels comfortable for families of all backgrounds. What stands out is allowing parents the chance to connect and share with other parents who are going through similar milestones, creating a sense of communiy and an enriching envirnment.

“I love that the Family Center is a place for Jewish families to meet, gather, and connect, but I also love how it welcomes everyone,” said MaryAnne Smyly Sabing, mom to nine-month-old twins, Asher and Sam, and eight-year-old, Yael. “I invited my non-Jewish twin mom friend Amanda to Together Time, and she feels just as comfortable as I do.”

All families with children five and under are welcome at the Family Center’s classes and events. And, while you don’t need to be Jewish, participating families list the fact that many programs involve Jewish culture as a great reason to get involved.

“I really love how focused it is on providing a diverse array of fun events for all ages while also involving our Jewish culture,” said Smyly Sabin. “As far back as I can remember, we have loved taking [my oldest] Yael to J Tot Shabbats, J Hanukkah parties and Tour de Fun.” Many Family Center participants have ties to the J that go back several years. From growing up themselves in J programs to being a loyal fitness center user, Family Center parents credit the great programming for their loyalty. “My husband grew up going to the J for preschool and camp. It had such a positive impact on him at a young age that when we moved back to St. Louis he wanted us to check it out,” said Benavides. “It has been an amazing place for our family. We’ve made many friends and love the J KidZone workers. My children have grown to love them and so have I.” “I’m not sure who has a bigger smile - Emilie, Marianne or Linda,” said Smyly Sabin. “It’s important to be able to feel comfortable and able to ask anything of the directors, and at the J you can talk to them at ease.”

Open play sessions (Mondays at SFC and Fridays at Fox) and most special events through the Family Center are free, and programs that involve a cost are priced with families in mind. Whether you’ve been a member of the J for generations or you’re new to the J community, you should get involved in the Family Center.

Contact: Fox: Marianne Chervitz, 314-442-6454, mchervitz@jccstl.org

SFC: Emilie Brockman, 314-442-3267, ebrockman@jccstl.org

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FITNESS

Big Losers are Winners in Lighten Up

Meet the Trainer: Paige Buchanan Trainer Provides Motivating Enthusiasm Her zest for life and infectious enthusiasm is only part of what motivates new J personal trainer Paige Buchanan. She strives to be a positive spark for anyone looking to improve their life through health and fitness. She says seeing people work to better their lives offers the motivation to show up every day.

She hopes, in return, to inspire all to reach their goals, whether with a friendly wave, sharing a quick tip on using a machine or training with a client.

The 2015 Lighten Up Health & Weight Loss Challenge concluded with the contestants losing more than 900 pounds – 904 to be exact. This year’s contest featured an individual-only category for the first time, although there was still fierce competition among the 14 teams which registered. There were three different competitions – weight loss, body-fat percentage loss and inches lost, with the emphasis on inches.

Sherry Diekemper pulled out the victory in inches lost at 8.52%, less than one percent over number two finisher Stephanie Barrett. In the team category, Team Phoenix (teams this year were all named after superheroes) led the way at a combined 7.92% lost. Their team was comprised of Shawn Duggan, Tom Schuman and Lori Schuman.

In the percentage of weight lost contest, Team Phoenix once again led the pack at -10.18%. In the individual competition, Leslie Gitel held on to win at an amazing -17.08%.

In the body fat percent change, Bob Meyer was the individual winner, and Team Star Lord (Matthew Frischer, Jeremy Levy, Alec Davison and Corey Fox) won the team competition.

Congratulations to ALL the participants!

Remember, the goal is a healthy lifestyle. The J’s personal trainers are here to assist all members who make the decision to “Lighten Up!”

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Paige, who completed her Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition & Exercise Physiology at Mizzou and became a NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine) certified personal trainer in 2014, also sees the importance of making sure her clients view training as a positive, and not something they just have to endure. She aspires to make her sessions full of enthusiasm and educational. She also puts herself on the learning side of the curve, with the desire to learn and gather ideas from the variety of professional trainers already on the team and clients alike.

“I hope that with each session my clients learn something new and enjoy themselves while working hard,” she offers. “Progressing each session is a goal. If you’re not enjoying the sessions you won’t return, and the motivation you had to better yourself will disappear.”

Although somewhat new to the profession, Paige has been an athlete for as long as she can remember, and recalls health and fitness always being a part of her life. She has been able to cultivate her passion for fitness which is easily seen in her philosophy with newcomers. This includes the simple act of congratulating him or her on making the choice to better one’s life. She also looks to make herself available from the moment someone walks through the door, and do what’s necessary to help someone succeed.

“I like to present is a no judgment policy, creating a safe and comfortable environment to help clients reach their daily goals,” she says.

This is an area where the J has been most helpful. Paige quickly took note, observing the friendliness and opportunities which she was suddenly surrounded. She saw the opportunity to excel in numerous areas, whether providing individual training, group training, teaching a class, etc. “I chose to work at the J because it is such an inviting environment, with very few intimidation factors.”

“When I am not working as a personal trainer I like to be outside! Whether I am at the park with my puppy or running the trails with my friends just being out in nature always makes me smile. I love playing different sports with family or friends, even if I am absolutely terrible at them. Weekends are meant for family, friends, (Mizzou) football, fun, Cardinals baseball and coaching volleyball!,” she said.

If you would like to meet with a personal trainer or schedule a free Polar BodyAge Fitness Consultation, contact the fitness center at 314-442-3159 (Creve Coeur) or 314-442-3439 (Chesterfield).

FITNESS

Self-Care 101: No Mechanical Engineering Degree Required Cathleen Kronemer

Improve Your Body Mechanics with Simple Functional Training

In a world where exercise often seems to take on epic proportions, as displayed in events such as the Olympic Games, the Super Bowl, or Wimbledon, it is easy to lose sight of the original intent of human kinetics, or “movement.” Our bodies were designed to bend, stretch, twist and turn; reach, hug, stride and jump. While such dynamics seem effortless during our youth, these same tasks take on much more importance as the body progresses through a normal aging process.

Starting as early as our 30’s, a typical human body is already actively losing bone mass. Frightening though this may be to realize, the good news is that we are able to counter such losses with gains in muscle mass through resistance training.

Demands placed upon the musculo-skeletal system elicit a response in the development and preservation of bone mass, keeping our bodies agile and strong when combined with proper nutrition.

Even if you do not fancy yourself a competitive athlete, there is still good reason to engage in regular exercise. Activities of Daily Living, or AOL, become a very real concern as we age and begin to observe muscle mass and bone loss. By facilitating the ability of your body to progress smoothly through these vital years, it helps to keep a perspective on remaining as “functionally independent” as possible.

This term refers to one’s solo capacity to engage in such basic tasks as cooking, vacuuming, bending to retrieve a dropped object, reaching for an item in an upper cabinet, or getting out of bed each morning.

Learning to be your own personal “body mechanic” is simpler than you may think, and certainly easier than becoming an expert car mechanic! When embarking upon an exercise program (with your doctor’s approval, of course), focus on movements that mimic activities in which you might frequently engage on a regular basis. Abdominal crunches performed while lying on a mat will strengthen the core muscles, easing the ability to rise up from a position of nightly slumber regardless of how soft a mattress you may prefer! Chest presses and rows, even in the absence of heavy resistance, will empower the upper body for those times when reaching and pulling something out of the back seat of a car might come into play. Bicep curls make lifting grocery bags out of the cart a much less taxing activity, while knee lift repetitions go a long way towards engaging and strengthening hip flexors, which in turn makes getting in and out of the bathtub much less daunting.

One of the greatest gifts we can give a loved one is the ability to remain independent for as long as possible. If you are in a position to help a friend or family member stay active, take advantage of the opportunity to enlighten this individual in terms of the benefits of functional movements. While people who are not regularly “athletic” may shy away from formal exercise programs, pointing out the value in terms of AOL will register with just about anyone. If you should find yourself in this position, learn how to become an advocate for self-care. Body mechanics are jobs that will always be in demand...and easy to achieve, for your own sake as well as those around you!

By Cathleen Kronemer, NSCA-CPT, Certified Health Coach

What is Functional Training?

Traditional “weightlifting” exercises generally target only one muscle for each exercise. Functional training exercise generally targets more than one body part with each movement or exercise.

Functional training emerged primarily from the sports conditioning and rehabilitation world. It refers to the type of exercises that contribute to better, more efficient and safer performance of real world activities or sports movements.

A short list of functional training benefits include: • • • •

Building core strength Endurance Improve balance Improve range of motion

Functional training allows you to work your muscles on different planes (hitting different angles) and building strength in “stabilizer” muscles as well as the main target muscle. Multi-plane exercises are more complex movements and more closely mimic movements used in everyday life.

The easy way to begin to add functional movements to your training is to simply write down what you do every day. What are your physical challenges? These areas would be your first to target.

Parts of this article were taken from yorkscoreandfitness.com

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FITNESS

Laura Prather is Seeing Success in a New Way Fitness Journey Results in More Than 120 Pounds Lost and Feeling Great

Shortly before 8am on Wednesday and Friday mornings, the upstairs elevator doors at SFC open to reveal a familiar smiling face.

Out walks Laura Prather, warmly greeting everyone she encounters. The fitness desk staff attendant is waiting for her, ready to escort Laura to one of the chairs, where she prepares for her twice-a-week personal training session.

Since joining the J in January of 2012, Laura has become a regular in the fitness center. She eagerly embraces every exercise she is taught, and over time masters them all…without ever having seen a single movement demonstrated. Yes, this highly educated, accomplished and dedicated member is legally blind.

Laura embarked upon a new lifestyle journey in February of 2012, with her goal being “weight loss and getting in better shape.” She began training with former J trainer Jill Abrams, and now currently trains with Cathleen Kronemer. At 58 years of age, Laura has indeed succeeded in her quest: she is 120 pounds lighter and feels great! Laura admits to having originally believed that exercise alone would propel her toward her goal. However, she soon learned that there was more to the equation. “I was told that I also had to watch was I was eating!”

This combination has proven to be very worthwhile and motivating. Laura shared her secret: “I now have a deep commitment to myself – I AM going to do this!”

Previously a big fan of fried foods, Laura currently enjoys eating more salads and lots of fresh fruit.

She also has learned a very valuable lesson that many individuals with similar goals may not realize. “You don’t have to give up eating what you like; just change your portion size.” If she is craving a piece of pie, for example, Laura buys one piece and right away cuts it in half. She enjoys her portion, and promptly gets rids of the other half, either sharing with a friend or simply discarding it. “If those foods aren’t in the house, I will not eat them!”

In spite of the challenges that come along with a lack of perfect eyesight, Laura’s life is extremely full. She shops, spends time with friends, is an avid card-player, travels extensively and is very devoted to her three dogs. As she explains, “I am blind, but I do most everything – just in a different way.” In terms of her time at the J, Laura has a specific regimen: she trains twice a week, walks the track once a week, and swims twice a week. Learning to swim is one of the skills Laura has mastered since becoming a J member. She loves the diversity it provides from the walking and the weight training. When asked about the benefits of working with a trainer, Laura feels that having the constant encouragement is a big help. She has an improved sense of balance now, and walks with a much more even gait.

Currently Laura is striving to steadily continue her training and maintain her weight loss. In fact, the only down side she has seen associated with her healthier lifestyle has been the constant need to purchase smaller clothes! However, that is a small price to pay for improved wellness. Weighing herself only once a month has also helped immensely. “It is better to see where I am over a period of time. If you weigh daily, the scale becomes your master, and the journey is no longer about YOU being in charge.”

For Laura, taking charge of her health remains a top priority. Always cheerful and ready with a kind word for other members, her attitude is a positive as her success. She is a source of inspiration for many, and we are proud to have her as a part of our evergrowing J Family!

Submitted by Cathleen Kronemer, NSCA-CPT, Certified Health Coach

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March - May 2015

FITNESS

Start Benefiting from Reformer Pilates How it Works

The Reformer consists of a flat, leather-padded platform that glides along two rails suspended on a raised wooden frame. An adjustable bar at the bottom end gives your feet a place to rest and push against while you’re on your back performing exercises.

The same bar serves as a place for your hands to balance and press against during downward-facing exercises, in which you move the platform with your knees or feet. Two cords at the top of the machine are attached to loops for your feet and hands, again to glide the carriage on the rails as you extend your arms and legs.

Principles

The principle of using variable resistance to build strength with a full range of motion comes into play with a Pilates Reformer. The five springs of the reformer vary in strength (pressure). Lighter springs require deep core muscles to control the carriage, challenging the abdominal muscles. Heavier springs increase the load of the exercises or intensify the stretch, creating gentle but strenuous work. Beginners should be patient learning the language, understanding the control and getting used to the flow of the glide.

Benefits

Benefits of working out on a Pilates Reformer include access to hundreds of exercises for small and large muscle groups alike, plus the ability to vary workouts and modify the movements based on one’s fitness goals or physical needs. A consistent Pilates practice delivers fitness improvements ranging from stronger muscles to deep core control to increased flexibility. You’ll get the most out of your Reformer practice by keeping an open mind about nontraditional forms of exercise.

REFORMER PILATES FACTS! Joseph invented the Reformer more than

Created by

Joseph Pilates Pilates’ passion for exercise originated from suffering from asthma, rickets and rheumatic fever as a child

80 years ago The original patent

was filed in 1925 Pilates helped to rehabilitate soldiers in Europe during WWI

Originally used springs attached to soldier’s medical beds to perform therapeutic conditioning Reformer Pilates builds on the principle of building strength through resistance and a full range of motion

Your Turn

J members are entitled to one free Reformer Pilates Assessment with their membership. Reformer Pilates studios are present at both J locations with more than a dozen certified instructors ready to lead you. Experience how a Reformer can compliment your workout, increase your core muscles and create more flexibility.

To schedule your assessment, contact Brooke McGee, 314-442-3210, bmcgee@jccstl.org (SFC) or Stacey Gerst, 314-442-3453, sgerst@jccstl.org (Fox).

Portions of this article were written

by Faith Winston and reprinted from livestrong.com

Many of the classic Reformer exercises are named after animals or whimsical creatures

Jennifer Aniston, Jamie Lee Curtis and NBA All-Star Jason Kidd include Reformer Pilates in their exercise regimes

Reformer Pilates allows you to

build strength and grace

Source: http://www.livestrong.com/article/146949-what-can-you-expect-from-using-the-pilates-reformer/

jccstl.org

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SRA

SRA Team Welcomes Tyler Tatum The J’s Sports, Recreation & Aquatics (SRA) team welcomed Tyler Tatum this past November as the new Youth Sports & Recreation Supervisor.

Tyler joins the J after experiencing high-end collegiate athletics and recreational sports over the past eight years.

He is looking forward to the challenges and opportunities the J has available, and offers this to those looking to get involved, “My experiences in athletics have really helped my abilities to run recreational programs for our youth here at the J. I thoroughly enjoy working in sports and being able to offer a great experience to all of our youth program participants.”

Tyler’s experience began as a youth sports instructor for the City of Tucson, AZ, Parks and Recreation Department, then joining a junior college basketball program, also in Tucson, as a student assistant. After the season, he enrolled at the University of Arizona and began working to as a Student Manager for the highly regarded men’s basketball program. He spent three seasons at U of A and learned an invaluable amount about the analytics of basketball and student-athlete relationships.

Upon graduating, Tyler attended graduate school at Robert Morris University in Chicago, IL. While there, he once again worked with the men’s basketball squad, this time as a graduate assistant coach. Highlighting his coaching career with Robert Morris was the team’s run to the Final Four of the NAIA Division II National Championships in 2014.

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March - May 2015

J Youth Basketball Touches Lives On and Off Court For the third straight year, the Mac and Jeanette Brown Youth Basketball Program hosted more than 1,000 participants, including three teams that truly emphasize the “community” in the J’s name. Including the three on the 2014-15 schedule, six teams from the Gene Slay’s Boys Club (GSBC) of St. Louis have participated in J leagues dating back to 2013. The GSBC looks to improve the lives of at-risk and underserved youth in South St. Louis, while assisting them in the creation of a future free from fear of violence.

Shannon Hester coaches the 13 and under team and says, “Anytime we as coaches get to witness a young boy grow not only from a basketball standpoint, but grow into a young man, we at GSBC define that as success.

We have witnessed our players gain confidence and learn the meaning of team work and sportsmanship while playing at the J. The greatest success for us as coaches is when our players take what they have learned on the court and apply it to life off the court.”

The partnership began when the GSBC was looking for opportunities for league play for its boys. To the fortune of all involved, one of the coaches at GSBC heard about the J’s basketball leagues through a friend. He suggested giving the J a try because it would be a great place for their youth to learn and gain experience, while enhancing their basketball skills.

“I enjoy the professional environment (of the J) and the fact that the league and the staff always improves season by season,” expressed 14-and-under coach Reginald Moore Jr. “The J is a state-of-the-art facility and one of the best in the area. The members would say that they most enjoy the level of competition. You have to work hard and always improve in order to be successful in the league. They also enjoy the snack bar at the Creve Coeur location.”

GSBC members are all invited to try out for the basketball teams. Staff then selects players who understand that their education takes priority, while also demonstrating coachability, physical and mental resilience and that consistently demand more of themselves than is demanded by coaches.

Coaches Hester, Moore, as well as 11-and-under Coach Jourdan Kelley, enjoy playing at the J, and are paid staff for the boy’s club. Kelley is also a former club member.

Over the course of the three seasons, the J leagues have been able to assist in serving more than 50 youths of the GSBC. Along with basketball, the GSBC provides high A Place To Go...A Way To Grow. quality and holistic after-school and summer programs that respect and meet the needs of at-risk boys and girls ages 6-18 through academics, leadership building, healthy lifestyles, athletics and the arts.

SRA

Aquatics Class Creates Special Bond Just after the Marilyn Fox Building opened its doors, instructor Nancee Glaser began an aquatics exercise class. Glaser, who’s been with the J since 1993, still teaches this class and holds it near and dear to her heart. Originally entitled Arthritis Aquatics, it now goes by Aqua Flow. Regardless of the name, each Tuesday and Thursday from 9-9:45 in the morning, a loyal group meets Nancee in the shallow end of the pool.

Their 45 minutes together is more than just exercise – it’s a time to bond, share and be a part of each other’s lives.

Glaser has been a regular sight at the Fox indoor pool…pretty much since the building was dedicated in 1997. Shorty after the Chesterfield location opened, Glaser became the Aquatics Coordinator, leading the Fox pools for almost exactly five years, from Novembers 1997 through 2002. Early during this time, her now-entitled Aqua Flow class was born.

J member Rona Levin has been there from the beginning, and is only one of a few that Glaser stays in touch with away from the pool.

Glaser speaks of how closely knit the group is, discussing fun and personal topics such as food, travel plans, birthdays and anniversaries, and also showing concern for those who may be absent for a few weeks and verifying they are okay. It’s also not unheard of for the class to meet for lunch or socially outside of the pool, and the J. “I’m in contact with Louis Reichmann, who was an early member,” Glaser fondly reflects. “I have several [participants] that started just a little later and are still with me – Sue Meara, Shirley Thuet, Barbara Hamm, Roberta Hayman, Suzanne and Jerry Blanke are just a few.”

Hayman, a longtime J member and participant, is in her nineties and still comes to class when it is not too cold. Glaser describes that after class, Hayman often then go to the J’s Early Childhood Center and volunteers by spending time with the young children, only to relate her experiences in the pool the following class. Nancee can offer several stories such as this which warm the heart and make this group so important to each other and their loyal instructor.

From an exercise pespective, Glaser knows that participants find that the class helps them feel better and plays an important role. “We move all the joints in the body. They can move as fast or as slow as they like. When people miss for a while, they really notice the difference.”

“This class is very special to me. They are special people,” Nancee happily and proudly says.

Senior Olympics Begin May 21 Over Memorial Day Weekend (excluding Sunday, May 24 due to Shavuot), The J will celebrate the 36th Annual St. Louis Senior Olympics (SLSO). The Games promote the health and wellness of men and women 50 years of age and better by providing opportunities to participate in competitive sports and social events. The Games offer more than 90 individual and team events at 13 local venues. Astounding success in participation and support has allowed the SLSO to be celebrated as the most prestigious and recognized Senior Games in the country.

The 2015 Games are being chaired

by Brian Goldman, a former J employee who began his 2015 Senior Olympic Chair involvement Brian Goldman (left) receives with the the Walter “Doc” Eberhardt SLSO on the Volunteer Award at the 2014 Opening Ceremonies from grounds crew.

Director Phil Ruben.

Brian has been a longstanding Event Director and was the 2014 recipient of the Walter “Doc” Eberhardt Volunteer Award.

The 2015 Games will look similar to past years, with a few new twists. The Games welcome a new team event – Ulitmate Frisbee. The Billiards competition will now include a 9-Ball Tournament.

Horseshoes will take place at a new indoor, air-conditioned venue, Quail Ridge Horseshoe Club.

To register, volunteer or just get involved, visit stlouisseniorolympics.org or call the Senior Olympics office at 314.442.3216.

Visit the website or pick up a registration form for complete details.

jccstl.org

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SENIORS

ADC Feels the Power of Music Music holds power – especially for those with dementia-related diseases, including Alzheimer’s. It can spark startling outcomes, including mood shifts, manage stress-induced agitation, stimulate positive interactions, facilitate cognitive function and coordinate motor movements. It is for these reasons, and others, that the Adult Day Center at the J (ADC) found it so important to secure a grant from the JCA Charitable Foundation allowing for Midwest Music Therapy Services to implement a weekly Music Therapy program.

It began last November, as four hours each week were dedicated to music therapy. The enjoyment and memories associated with music during a person’s life are often enhanced with this program. Individuals with dementia, or any physical or sensory challenges, can be involved, with the goal of creating a positive, creative and expressive experience.

Participants of the ADC are now experiencing these wonders that music has to offer.

“I believe in the power of music and have seen how it can change the entire atmosphere of a room and reach individuals at all functioning levels using different music therapy approaches,” says Teresa Stamey, MT-BC (Music Therapist-Board Certified) from Midwest Music Therapy Services. “My passion for music therapy stems from seeing the power of music pull someone out of their prison of dementia where they cannot even hold a conversation, but will smile and laugh and sing every word of songs that are special to them.”

Theresa Mines, Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) joined the ADC team as the new Activity Director last fall and schedules when the music therapists will visit the center. She is also close with the participants of the program and will often be one of the first to see a change in expression come across someone’s face. Mines says that the joy and excitement on the faces of the participants cannot fully be described.

Stamey, who is assisted by Lauren Jacob, MT-BC, feels the reason music therapy is so effective in reaching so many different populations is that music is the universal language that speaks to our very soul. Mines continued that thought, as she regularly sees Stamey and Jacob, “not only implement meaningful Music Therapy sessions for our ADC participants, they also empower them to compose and perform music as well. This dynamic duo completes the creative aspect of the Adult Day Center of the J.” Most people associate music with important events during their lives, as well as a wide array of emotions. The connection can be so strong that hearing even a few notes long after the happening may evoke memories. In the grant award letter Kenneth L. Rubin, President, JCA Charitable Foundation, said, “There are many studies showing how valuable the use of music is in assisting those with a diagnosis of dementia to “come alive.”

With the help of the melody, talented therapists, a dedicated activities director and the generosity of the JCA Charitable Foundation, the right tools have aligned to give the participants of the ADC a glimpse at life through the power of music.

Just like finding the correct sequence of notes when composing a song, and knowing it’s right, this program has brightened the lives of many souls who visit the ADC – and it’s just…right.

The ADC provides a full day of programming to those in need of structure and care with additional supports. Make a reservation for a tour, stay for lunch, and meet the caring staff who make the ADC the special place that it is. Services include a personcentered therapeutic plan for each individual, a full-time RN, two meals and a snack daily and round-trip transportation within the service area. For information about the program, contact Anna Zelinske, Adult Day Center Director, at azelinske@jccstl.org or 314-442-3245.

Parts of this article were borrowed from the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America website (http://www.alzfdn.org/EducationandCare/musictherapy.html )

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March - May 2015

Tributes

“As my parents planted for me before I was born, so we plant for our children.” -Talmud 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 1, 2014 and February 25, 2015.

VISIT JCCSTL.ORG TO SEND A TRIBUTE ONLINE 2016 MACCABI GAMES In honor of Jennifer and Jonathan Deutsch from: Mr. and Mrs. David Deutsch INCLUSION PROGRAMS In honor of the special birthday of David Lander from: Mr. and Mrs. Amos Kedmey In memory of Bobbie Kohn from: Mr. and Mrs. Amos Kedmey JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL In memory of Helen Silverberg and Shirley Sparks from: Mr. and Mrs. Barry Needle from: Mr. and Mrs. Gershon Spector from: Mr. and Mrs. Maurice Guller MERLE & RICHARD LINKEMER CAMP SABRA SCHOLARSHIP FUND In memory of Dr. Karin Gubin from: Mr. and Mrs. Richard Linkemer In memory of the mother and mother-in-law of Jeff and Sue Edelman from: Mr. and Mrs. Richard Linkemer MICHAEL WORTH MASADA 11 WELLNESS FUND In honor of Liz and Fallon from: Mr. and Mrs. Barry Worth In honor of the special birthday of Susie Frank from: Mr. and Mrs. Steven Goldenberg In honor of the speedy recovery of Barbara Furman from: Mr. and Mrs. Barry Worth In honor of the speedy recovery of Marilyn Wagner from: Mr. and Mrs. Barry Worth In memory of Aida Novack from: Mr. and Mrs. Barry Worth In memory of Barry Mandel from: Mr. and Mrs. Barry Worth In memory of Hortense Morgan from: Mr. and Mrs. Barry Worth In memory of Joyce “Toodles” Green from: Mr. and Mrs. Barry Worth In memory of Michael Aaron Worth from: Brandvein & Company, P.C. from: Dr. and Mrs. Gary Ratkin from: Dr. and Mrs. Harvey Lehrer from: Dr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Dalin from: Dr. and Mrs. Robert Hoffman from: Dr. and Mrs. Stephen Kamenetzky from: Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Hershman from: Mr. and Mrs. Avi Goldfarb from: Mr. and Mrs. Barry Charnin from: Mr. and Mrs. Bill Freeman from: Mr. and Mrs. Bradley Worth from: Mr. and Mrs. Brent Cantor from: Mr. and Mrs. Britton Wiseman from: Mr. and Mrs. Bryan Bernat from: Mr. and Mrs. Burt Garland from: Mr. and Mrs. Charles Berkman from: Mr. and Mrs. Craig Neuman from: Mr. and Mrs. Darren Diedrich from: Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Feit from: Mr. and Mrs. Gary Sherman from: Mr. and Mrs. Gary Solomon from: Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Zafft from: Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert Dolgin from: Mr. and Mrs. Harry Auman from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Sachs from: Mr. and Mrs. Jason Turkin from: Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Goldfarb from: Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Loeser from: Mr. and Mrs. Jeremy Shook from: Mr. and Mrs. Jerome Kelley from: Mr. and Mrs. Jesse Barash

from: Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Deutsch from: Mr. and Mrs. Jordan Kimberg from: Mr. and Mrs. Keith Grosz from: Mr. and Mrs. Ken Dennison from: Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Fischer from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels from: Mr. and Mrs. Marvin Marion from: Mr. and Mrs. Marvin Sher from: Mr. and Mrs. Michael Kaplan from: Mr. and Mrs. Michael Lefton from: Mr. and Mrs. Milton Goldenberg from: Mr. and Mrs. Mitch Stern from: Mr. and Mrs. Neil Marglous from: Mr. and Mrs. Norman Selner from: Mr. and Mrs. Philip Sigmund from: Mr. and Mrs. Randall Green from: Mr. and Mrs. Richard Wolkowitz from: Mr. and Mrs. Rick Brinckwirth from: Mr. and Mrs. Rick Cornfeld from: Mr. and Mrs. Robert Snidman from: Mr. and Mrs. Ron Miller from: Mr. and Mrs. Sanford Lebman from: Mr. and Mrs. Scott Silk from: Mr. and Mrs. Steven Starr from: Mr. and Mrs. Steven Goldenberg from: Mr. and Mrs. Theodore Koziatek from: Mr. and Mrs. Todd Greenberg from: Mr. and Mrs. William Goldstein from: Mr. and Mrs. William Heinbecker from: Mr. and Mrs. William Livingston from: Mr. and Mrs. William Schmittgens from: Mr. and Ms. Jeffrey Kopolow from: Mr. Ben Rabb from: Mr. David Levin from: Mr. Jeffrey Harris from: Mr. Jessie Resimius from: Mr. Jonathan David from: Mr. Scott Ruksakiati from: Mrs. Bonnie Myers from: Mrs. Carol Desoe from: Mrs. Judy Rosenthal from: Mrs. Linda Kline from: Mrs. Mandy Rubenstein from: Mrs. Shirley Fox from: Mrs. Susan Evans Boxerman from: Ms. Donna Beck Smith from: Ms. Eileen Perlman from: Ms. Gay Lipman from: Ms. Jan Stapleton from: Ms. Julie Fischer from: Ms. Kathy Hasse from: Ms. Maxine Weil from: Ms. Rebecca Turner from: Ms. Robin Fox from: Ms. Susan Fox from: Ms. Susan Matlof from: Ms. Terri Grossman In memory of Sidney Rennard from: Mr. and Mrs. Barry Worth MICKEY ROSEN MEMORIAL CAMP SABRA SCHOLARSHIP FUND In memory of Michael Aaron Worth from: Mrs. Adrienne Rosen from: Mrs. Maxine Friedman NANCY & JERRY RASKAS SCHOLARSHIP FUND In honor of the speedy recovery of Jerry Raskas from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels NISHMAH PROGRAM In honor of Sara Winkelman from: Ms. Ronit Sherwin In memory of Edward Schapiro from: Ms. Sara Winkelman In memory of the mother of Shelley Dean from: Mr. and Mrs. Bradford Hartman from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Picker NORMAN S. KARTY MEMORIAL FUND In honor of the birthday of Michael Karty from: Mrs. Rochelle Karty In honor of The Karty Family from: Mrs. Rochelle Karty In honor of the special birthday of Rochelle Karty from: Mr. and Mrs. Keith Kaplan

In memory of Amy L. Hopkins from: Mrs. Rochelle Karty THE MICHAEL H. STAENBERG FACILITIES FUND In memory of Marvin Wool from: Mr. and Mrs. Michael Staenberg THE NANCY AND AL SIWAK FUND In honor of the 10 year anniversary of Blair Halpern from: Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Siwak In honor of the graduation of Jake Siwak from: Mr. and Mrs. Marty Oberman In honor of the special wedding anniversary of Helane and Warner Isaacs from: Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Siwak In memory of Bob Powers from: Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Siwak In memory of Bob Tschudy from: Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Siwak In memory of Dr. Karin Gubin from: Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Siwak In memory of Dr. Les Rich from: Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Siwak In memory of Dr. Robert Cohen from: Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Siwak In memory of Gene Zafft from: Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Siwak In memory of Mahlon Rubin from: Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Siwak In memory of Mark Levick from: Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Siwak In memory of Marty Lehr from: Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Siwak In memory of Sherri Druck from: Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Siwak DAVID I. & CECILE ALTON EARLY CHILDHOOD SCHOLARSHIP FUND In memory of Sissy Alton from: Mrs. Sheila Siegel ESTHER B. & HENRY J. BARIS CAMP SCHOLARSHIP FUND In memory of Marty Zigler from: Mr. and Mrs. Keith Grosz BESS & MAX BRODER J ASSOCIATES FUND In honor of the marriage of Stacey and Barry from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Potashnick In honor of the speedy recovery of Joel Schraier from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Potashnick MAC & JEANETTE BROWN YOUTH SPORTS FUND In honor of the Bat Mitzvah of Tanner Sharon from: Mr. and Mrs. Marty Oberman In honor of the birth of Jack Ryan Loiterstein from: Mr. and Mrs. Marty Oberman In honor of the birth of Max and Leon Neuman from: Mr. and Mrs. Marty Oberman In honor of the speedy recovery of Bill Schuchat from: Mr. and Mrs. Lee Platke In memory of Arnold Schrier from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown In memory of Benny Goldman from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown In memory of Carl Weber from: Mr. and Mrs. Howard Tash In memory of Dr. Karin Gubin from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown In memory of Herbert Talcoff from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown In memory of Marvin Klamen from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown In memory of Mel Reiss from: Mrs. Maurine Rubin In memory of Merle “Ruffy” Silverstein from: Mrs. Maurine Rubin In memory of Miki Zimring from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown In memory of Paula Lite from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown from: Mr. Lawrence Rubin In memory of Sidney Maltzman from: Mrs. Maurine Rubin jccstl.org

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Tributes CAMP SABRA SCHOLARSHIP FUND In honor of the Bar Mitzvah of Ben Blinder from: Mrs. Victoria Singer In honor of the Bar Mitzvah of Evan Singer from: Ms. Alise O’Brien In memory of Bernard Steinberg from: Mr. and Mrs. Neil Marglous In memory of Ilana Krashin and in honor of Goldie Krashin from: Ms. Rachel Hines In memory of Ilana Libby Krashin from: Mr. and Mrs. David Aronson In memory of Mark Hoffman from: Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Goldfarb In memory of Sam David Weinstein from: Dr. and Mrs. Bruce Berwald ZOLA CARP FUND FOR CHILDREN In honor of the special birthday of Marilyn Carp from: Mrs. Elana Green from: Mrs. Esther Copelovitch from: Mrs. Sarah Kauffman In memory of Annie Weiss from: Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Carp In memory of Susan Melchner from: Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Carp In memory of the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Levy from: Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Carp CULTURAL ARTS FUND In memory of Helen Silverberg from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels from: Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Frankel from: Mr. and Mrs. Leslie Berger from: Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Plocker In memory of Shirley Sparks from: Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Frankel from: Mr. and Mrs. Leslie Berger from: Mr. Oscar Goldberg from: Mrs. Elaine Oberman STAENBERG EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER FUND In memory of Milton Goldstein from: JCC Early Childhood Staff In memory of Stan Green from: JCC Early Childhood Staff In memory of the father of Lisa Wallis from: Mr. and Mrs. Terry Cohen MARLYN ESSMAN CULTURAL ENRICHMENT PROGRAM FOR CHILDREN In memory of Marvin Wool from: Mr. and Mrs. Alyn Essman In memory of Norman Rosenfeld from: Mr. and Mrs. Alyn Essman HENRIETTA & IRWIN FISCHER CAMP SCHOLARSHIP FUND In memory of Stan Green from: June and Ellis Fischer SHELLY FISHER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND In memory of Helene, sister of Audrey Rothbarth from: Mrs. Sue Fisher In memory of Mary Miller from: Mrs. Sue Fisher In memory of Robert Louis Byers from: Mrs. Sue Fisher In memory of Seymour Goldenberg from: Mrs. Sue Fisher SAM & MARILYN FOX AND EDWIN & LENORE PEPPER FRIENDSHIP SCHOLARSHIP FUND In honor of Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox from: Mrs. Sylvia Rogers In honor of Ericka Zoll from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox In honor of Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Pepper from: Mrs. Sylvia Rogers In honor of Steve Rosenzweig from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox In honor of the birth of Alec from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox In honor of the birth of Victoria from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox

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March - May 2015

In memory of Bob Tschudy from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox In memory of Gene Zafft from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox In memory of Hortense Morgan from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox In memory of Hugh Scott Jr. from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox In memory of Madeline McElveen from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox In memory of Marvin Wool from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox In memory of Robert Aitken from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox In memory of Shirley Sparks from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox from: Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Pepper MILTON FRANK CAMP OF THE ARTS FUND In memory of Gertrude Blumoff from: Mrs. Elizabeth Morrison In memory of Joyce “Toodles” Green from: Mrs. Elizabeth Morrison GROSSMAN IRON & STEEL COMPANY MEYER A. GOLDER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND In honor of the 50th Wedding Anniversary of Vicki and Lenny Raiffie from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler In honor of the special birthday of Carl Golder from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler In honor of the special birthday of Lillian Schoenfeld from: Dr. and Mrs. Robert Strimling from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler from: Ms. Susan Bindler In honor of the special birthday of Lisa Hellman from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler In honor of the special birthday of Radine Robbins from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler In honor of the special birthday of Sue Dean from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler In honor of the special wedding anniversary of Barbara and David Smith from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler In honor of the speedy recovery of Blair Dubinsky from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler In honor of the speedy recovery of Carol Blinder from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler In honor of the speedy recovery of Carol Fox from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler In honor of the speedy recovery of Joel Schraier from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler In memory of Bernard Bornstein from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler In memory of Bob Salzman from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler In memory of Dr. Karin Gubin from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler In memory of Ely Langfeld from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler In memory of Michael Aaron Worth from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler In memory of Robert Louis Byers from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler In memory of Shirley Sparks from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler SCOTT & BRUCE GOLDSTEIN CAMP SABRA SCHOLARSHIP FUND In honor of the 100th birthday of Larry Levin from: Mr. Irving Goldstein In honor of the special birthday of Charles Morgan from: Mrs. Maxine Levy In memory of Bernard and Jocelyn Barken from: Dr. and Mrs. Harvey Glazer In memory of Helene Goldstein from: Dr. and Mrs. Harvey Glazer In memory of Merle “Ruffy” Silverstein from: Mr. Irving Goldstein RUTH & GUS GORNEK HEALTH CLUB FUND In memory of the father and father-in-law of Steve and Toby Chod from: Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Musen

SIDNEY HOLTZMAN CAMP SABRA SCHOLARSHIP FUND In memory of Al Melman from: Mr. and Mrs. Troy Pohlman In memory of Carl Weber from: Mr. and Mrs. Troy Pohlman In memory of David Sherman, Jr. from: Mr. and Mrs. Troy Pohlman In memory of Dr. Karin Gubin from: Mr. and Mrs. Troy Pohlman In memory of Dr. Robert Cohen from: Mr. and Mrs. Troy Pohlman In memory of Michael Aaron Worth from: Mr. and Mrs. Troy Pohlman In memory of Miki Zimring from: Mr. and Mrs. Troy Pohlman In memory of Teddy Friedman from: Mr. and Mrs. Troy Pohlman In memory of the brother of Dr. Milton Rubin from: Mr. and Mrs. Troy Pohlman J ASSOCIATES In memory of Dr. Karin Gubin from: Mr. and Mrs. Jerome Raskas from: Mr. and Mrs. Joel Schraier JEWISH BOOK FESTIVAL FUND In memory of Dr. Karin Gubin from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels from: Ms. Terri Grossman In memory of Helen Silverberg from: Dr. and Mrs. Barry Abramson MARTIN KODNER JCC MACCABI SPORTSMANSHIP AWARD ENDOWMENT FUND In memory of Walter G. Stern from: Mrs. Penny Kodner BERNARD & MYRTLE KORNBLUM FUND In memory of David Sherman, Jr. from: Mrs. Carole A. Simon In memory of Dr. Karin Gubin from: Mrs. Carole A. Simon In memory of Lloyd Arkin from: Mrs. Carole A. Simon JOY & FRED LEVIN DAY CARE FUND In memory of Fred Levin from: Jothika and Anantha Manepalli from: Mr. and Mrs. Larry Trochtenberg from: Mr. and Mrs. Lester Sherman from: Mr. and Mrs. Michael Staenberg from: Mr. Barry Dicker from: Mr. Murray Vittert from: Mr. Oscar Goldberg from: Mrs. Marilyn Lipman THE LEVITT FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP FUND In memory of Allen Pesmen from: Mr. and Mrs. Michael Levitt LIEBERT-WHYMAN CAMP SABRA SCHOLARSHIP FUND In memory of Dr. Karin Gubin from: Mrs. Tobie Liebert In memory of Reuben Goodman from: Mrs. Tobie Liebert DR. HERBERT A. MAZUR CHILDREN’S FUND In honor of Herbert Talcoff from: Mrs. Naomi Silvermintz In honor of the speedy recovery of Bob Wolf from: Mrs. Naomi Silvermintz In memory of Eva Herzog from: Mrs. Naomi Silvermintz In memory of Joyce Weltman from: Mrs. Naomi Silvermintz WILMA & ROSWELL MESSING, JR., CULTURAL ARTS AND EDUCATION PROGRAM FUND In memory of Dr. Karin Gubin from: Mr. and Mrs. Sanford Pomerantz In memory of Helen Silverberg from: Mr. and Mrs. Marty Oberman In memory of Marvin Wool from: Mr. and Mrs. Marty Oberman

Tributes In memory of Shirley Sparks from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels from: Mr. and Mrs. Marty Oberman from: Mr. Todd Siwak and Ms. Gianna Jacobson from: Mrs. Audrey Berns HELENE MIROWITZ CENTER OF JEWISH COMMUNITY LIFE In honor of Bethe Growe being named to the YWCA Metro St. Louis Academy of Leaders from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels In honor of the 95th birthday of Millie Figler from: Ms. Myra Rosenthal In honor of the speedy recovery of Joel Schraier from: Mr. and Mrs. Gary Growe In memory of Selma K. Goldstein from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels GERTRUDE NEUMAN DAY CARE FUND In memory of the brother of Paul Amsterdam from: Mr. and Mrs. Marc Alper from: Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Spears NEW JEWISH THEATRE In memory of Estelle Harriet Levin from: Dr. and Mrs. Rod Pearline from: Mr. and Mrs. Ross Schumaker In memory of Helen Silverberg from: Mr. and Mrs. Stuart Manewith In memory of Mike Nichols from: Dr. Sherman Silber and Dr. Joan Silber In memory of Shirley Sparks from: Mr. and Mrs. William Sitzer STEVEN J. NEWMARK HEALTH CLUB FUND In memory of Patti Hadlock from: Mr. and Mrs. Michael Newmark In memory of Stevan Newmark from: Mr. and Mrs. Michael Newmark SALLY & SOL PLATTNER CHESS PROGRAM FUND In honor of the special birthday of Linda Yatkeman from: Mr. and Mrs. Alan Lebon In memory of Annita Suffian from: Mr. and Mrs. Henry Schneider MORRIS & BIRDIE POTASHNICK CAMP SABRA SCHOLARSHIP FUND In memory of the father of Tracy Eden from: Capital Performance LLC RHODA & AL RABEN CAMP SABRA SCHOLARSHIP FUND In memory of Michael Aaron Worth from: Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Smith MAURICE RICH YOUTH MACCABI SCHOLARSHIP FUND In honor of the special birthday of Susie Frank from: Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Goodkin In memory of Barry Mandel from: Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Goodkin GERALD RIMMEL SPECIAL PROGRAM FUND In honor of the birthdays of Jerry and Linda Kraus from: Dr. Susan Bertelson In honor of the special birthday of Dr. Lesley Rimmel from: Mr. and Mrs. Jerome Kraus In honor of the special birthday of Jeanne Rimmel from: Mr. and Mrs. Jerome Kraus BARBARA & DON RUBIN CAMP SABRA SCHOLARSHIP FUND In memory of Michael Aaron Worth from: Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Levin ADULT SERVICES NUTRITION PROGRAM In honor of Craig Neuman from: Shaare Emeth Seniors In honor of Kitchen J from: Mr. and Mrs. Stuart Block In memory of Gertrude Blumoff from: Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Coker

SENIOR OLYMPICS FUND In honor of the special birthday of Erich Dahl from: Mr. and Mrs. Steven Cole MOLLIE SHER DAY CAMP SCHOLARSHIP FUND In honor of the speedy recovery of Estelle Wieder from: Mr. and Mrs. Harold Sher HAROLD SPIEGELGLASS CAMP SHALOM SCHOLARSHIP FUND In honor of the 50th Wedding Anniversary of Herb and Itta Hyman from: Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Glazier In honor of the 50th Wedding Anniversary of Vicki and Lenny Raiffie from: Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Glazier In memory of Bob Salzman from: Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Glazier JCC TRIBUTE FUND In honor of Bob Millstone from: Mr. and Mrs. James Blair In honor of Harris Frank being honored with the Spirit of Philanthropy Award from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels In honor of Lynn Wittels from: Mrs. Jean Cavender from: Ms. Frances Gould In honor of the special birthday of Alvin Wolff, Jr. from: Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Rubin In honor of the special birthday of Joel Schraier from: Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Kleban In honor of the speedy recovery of Joan Silber from: Dr. and Mrs. Stephen Kamenetzky In honor of the wedding of Allison Chod and Andrew Davis from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels In memory of Bernard Steinberg from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels In memory of David Heller from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels In memory of Dr. Karin Gubin from: Dr. and Mrs. Stephen Kamenetzky In memory of Dr. Les Rich from: Mr. and Mrs. Paul Mendelson In memory of Gene Zafft from: Dr. and Mrs. Stephen Kamenetzky In memory of Jeanette Studna from: Mr. and Mrs. Monte Sandler In memory of Marvin Wool from: Mr. and Mrs. David Halpern from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels In memory of Miki Zimring from: Mr. and Mrs. Paul Mendelson In memory of Reuben Goodman from: Mr. and Mrs. Irv Munn from: Mr. and Mrs. Jay Lifshen from: Mr. and Mrs. Robert Gidlow from: Ms. Barbara Grubert from: Ms. Elizabeth Horowitz In memory of Robert Louis Byers from: Mr. Jeffrey Mortland In memory of Selma K. Goldstein from: Mr. and Mrs. Steven Rosenzweig In memory of the father of John McKenna from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels

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

Chair

Monte L. Sandler Vice Chair

Mark A. Cantor Vice Chair

Thom E. Kuhn Vice Chair

Jane T. Rubin Vice Chair

Stacy B. Siwak Treasurer

Felicia M. Malter Assistant Treasurer

Eli M. Abeles Secretary

Mark Gellman Assistant Secretary

Steven L. Goldenberg Board Members

Cynthia L. Albin

Marc H. Alper

Rob E. Bertman

Bruce J. Berwald

Laurie J. Berwald

Laurie H. Chod

Robert Denlow

Mike Ferman

Ted Flom

Kitty Gross

Howard T. Handelman

W. Ted Isaacs

David R. Kaiser

Mark C. Kodner

Debbie K. Lefton

Howard N. Lesser

April S. Levison I. Richard Levy

Alice M. Ludmer

Neil A. Marglous

Brenda U. Pereles

Judy K. Rosenthal

Eileen Schechter

Judith R. Scissors

Lori D. Sheinbein

Sue Silverstein

Julie B. Stern

Scott M. Stern

Harvey H. Wallace

Cindy Wallach

Marc Wallis

Greg Yawitz Lifetime Board Members

Harvey M. Brown*

Jonathan J. Deutsch*

Charles C. Eisenkramer*

Marlyn Essman*

Marilyn Fox*

Harris Frank*

Paul J. Gallant*

Harvey S. Gershenson*

Harvey Gerstein*

Howard Hearsh*

Frank A. Jacobs*

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

19

JProSTL Awards J Staff Members JProStl is dedicated to supporting professionals working at Jewish organizations throughout St. Louis. For the past 10 years, they have recognized a special group of individuals with Peer Recognition Awards. At this year’s Annual Luncheon and Recognition Event on January 29, along with eight others, two J emplyoees were honored for their commitment and contributions to the J and to the professional Jewish community. J recipients were Peggy Landsbaum, Member Services Manager, received the Dedication Award and Personal Trainer Jill Grossman was recognized with the Chesed – Kindness Award.

J President and CEO Lynn Wittels

presents Peggy Landsbaum (right) with Landbaum works tirelessly to ensure that the hundreds of the JProStl 2015 Dedication Award guests who enter the J feel welcome. Her abilty to show at their 10th Annual Luncheon & empathy and patience allow her meet the standards and Recognition Event on January 29. achieve the mission of the agency on a daily basis. She has been dedicated to her position since 2006, while filling other roles along the way. She is often the frontline of communications with members and guests, while also handling daily operations, and always does it with a smile. She was part of the rejuvination of the J when the Staenberg Family Complex opened its doors, and remains so through today. (l to r) J President and CEO Lynn Wittels, Dedication Award recipient Peggy Landsbaum and J’s Phil Ruben, who nominated Landsbaum.

Honorees were chosen by a committee of JProStl leadership and former award recipients, representing colleagues from across the community. JPro enables a diverse professional community to see their work as bigger than their individual jobs. No matter their age, career path or affiliation, JPro weaves individual passions into the fabric of a vibrant local community.

JProStl is affiliated with the Millstone Institute for Jewish Leadership and all initiatives are supported by the Lubin-Green Foundation, a supporting foundation of Jewish Federation of St. Louis.

Photos courtesy of the Jewish Federation of St. Louis.

Looking ahead…A partial look at upcoming activities and events at the J! MARCH 6-20 1 22

Spring Break Camp

Pre-K Baseball Training League

22

NFL Flag Football League

26 Youth Theatre – and the Moss & 29 Anansi Covered Rock

28 29 30

Party Zone (Fox) Junior Lifeguarding

6 Week Body Transformation Session Begins

31

Alive Inside - Free film that brings music and memory alive!

APRIL 2

Men’s Basketball Leagues Begin (adult)

3-10 4 4 6

Vacation Days (SFC)

11 12 12

Party Zone (SFC)

Passover Family Seder Passover (Closed)

Competitive Coed Volleyball Begins (adult) Start Smart Baseball

Start Smart NFL Flag Football

16 Theatre Unlimited – & 19 Schoolhouse Rock Jr. 17 American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification

18 Party Zone (Fox) 22 Birthday Party for Israel 27-29 Nishmah Salon Series 28- Swim Academy: 4/2 Session 2 begins 30 Youth Theatre –

MAY 2 3

Youth Theatre – Seussical Jr.

7-31

• Adult Day Center at the J

NJT –

My Mother’s Wiccan Lesbian Jewish Wedding

5-17 1 16 17

Camp Sabra Dad & I Party Zone (Fox)

Israeli Cooking for Mom & Girls

17

American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification

22-25

Camp Sabra Memorial Day Family Weekend

23 24 25

Outdoor Pools Open Shavuot (Closed)

Memorial Day (Hours: 8am-5pm)

Alpha Waves Swim Club – Spring Session

facebook.com/jccstl

• J-Fit Specialty Fitness • Family Center Programming

Youth Theatre – How to Eat Like a Child

30

March - May 2015

• Signature Specialty Fitness

7 & 10

Seussical Jr.

Get the 20App J Mobile

Party Zone (SFC)

ONGOING

jccstl.org

• BBYO for teens

• Early Childhood Center • Covenant Place Senior Meal Site • Home Delivery Meal Program • Volunteer Opportunities Most Fitness programs are ongoing and can be joined anytime. Current schedules are available in the fitness centers.

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