SPRING 2020 AT THE EDLAVITCH DCJCC
EDCJCC.ORG
#WHEREYOUHAPPEN
EDLAVITCH DC JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER FEB 28
MAR 1
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JxJ • Beanpole (through March 5), pg. 14
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SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • Hunger Action, pg. 6
APRIL
THEATER J • The Wanderers (through March 15), pg. 12
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JxJ • Klezmer Brunch with Seth Kibel, pg. 14 INCLUSION • Game Night, pg. 22
ENTRYPOINTDC • A Purim Pairing: Girl Scout Cookie Hamantaschen Making & Israeli Wine Tasting, pg. 18
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JEWISH LIFE • God, Humanity, and the Rest of Creation: Jewish Theology in a Time of Climate Emergency, pg. 16
JxJ • The Unorthodox (through March 12), pg. 15
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JFAMILY AMBASSADORS • Playtime and Havdalah at The LANE, pg. 11 GLOE • Purim Masquerade Party, pg. 20
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SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • Families Serving Together at the Purim Carnival, pg. 7
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FAMILY ENGAGEMENT • Family Purim Carnival, pg. 10 12 13
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JEWISH LIFE • Puppy PAWrim Party, pg. 16 JEWISH LIFE • Torah of Our World, pg. 16
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JEWISH LIFE • Hot Topics in Jewish Thought, pg. 17 JFAMILY AMBASSADORS • Tot Shabbat, pg. 11
PARENTING • Childbirth Education Boot Camp, pg. 9 INCLUSION • Intelligent Lives, pg. 22
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PARENTING • The Other Kind of Smart, pg. 8
ENTRYPOINTDC • Shabbat Clusters Kick-Off Dinner, pg. 18
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JEWISH LIFE • Third Fridays Book Club, pg. 17
SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • Handmade for the Homeless, pg. 6
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JxJ • 21%: The Lives of Arab Citizens of Israel, pg. 15
JFAMILY AMBASSADORS • Trivia Parents Night Out, pg. 11
THEATER J • Becoming Dr. Ruth (through April 19), pg. 12 JEWISH LIFE • Love and Religion Intensive: A Workshop for Jews and Their Partners, pg. 17
ENTRYPOINTDC • Mental Health Mondays, pg. 18
ENTRYPOINTDC • Cooking Interest Tribe: Challah Cook-Off (through April 6), pg. 19 JEWISH LIFE • Everything You Wanted to Know About Making a Seder, pg. 17
SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • Hunger Action, pg. 6
FAMILY ENGAGEMENT • Make Room for Matzah, pg. 10 GLOE • The 13th Annual National Rainbow Seder, pg. 21
THEATER J • Yiddish Theater Lab: One of Those, pg. 13 INCLUSION • Game Night, pg. 22
THEATER J • Classes for Theater Lovers: Beyond the Script (through May 29), pg. 13 ENTRYPOINTDC • Passover Satellite Seders, pg. 19
JEWISH LIFE • Second Night Community Seder, pg. 17 SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • Spring Blood Drive, pg. 6
SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • Anacostia Community Museum Tour and Discussion, pg. 7 JFAMILY AMBASSADORS • Raising Children in an Interfaith Family/Predominantly Non-Jewish Community, pg. 11
JEWISH LIFE • Intro to Judaism (through June 9), pg. 17 PARENTING • Raising Tough Targets, pg. 9
ENTRYPOINTDC • A Very Mrs. Maisel 50’s Spring Fling, pg. 19
SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • Good Deeds Day, pg. 6 SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • Handmade for the Homeless, pg. 6
PARENTING • Childbirth Education Boot Camp, pg. 9
INCLUSION • Social Bowling Power Hour, pg. 22
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SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • Hunger Action, pg. 6
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PARENTING • Parent Coffee: Returning to Work... Or Not, pg. 8 JEWISH LIFE • Torah of Our World, pg. 16
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GLOE • GLOE at Good Deeds Day, pg. 20
INCLUSION • Social Bowling Power Hour, pg. 22 SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • Hunger Action, pg. 6 PARENTING • Parent Coffee: Taking Your Own Newborn Photos, pg. 8
CALENDAR—SPRING 2020 MAY 1
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SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • Urban Gardening Team (through October 2020), pg. 7 INCLUSION • Dream for Kids DC Prom, pg. 22
SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • Hunger Action, pg. 6 PARENTING • Newborn Care Boot Camp, pg. 9
JEWISH LIFE • Torah for the #MeToo Movement, pg. 16 INCLUSION • Game Night, pg. 22
Help replenish DC’s quickly deminishing blood drive. Learn more on page 6.
JFAMILY AMBASSADORS • Tot Shabbat, pg. 11 FAMILY ENGAGEMENT • CityJews Pop-Up: Lag B’Omer, pg. 10 ENTRYPOINTDC • Jews That Jam, pg. 19
SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • Food Justice Program, pg. 7 SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • Handmade for the Homeless, pg. 6
PARENTING • Newborn Care Boot Camp, pg. 9 PARENTING • Pathways to Parenthood, pg. 9
INCLUSION • Social Bowling Power Hour,pg. 22
Thinking about growing your family or looking for support after struggling to conceive? Join us at Pathways to Parenthood this May. Open to all! More information can be found on page 9.
SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • Hunger Action, pg. 6
SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • Families Serving Together: Anacostia River Clean-Up, pg. 7
ROSE AND ROBERT L. COHEN COFFEE BAR NEW HOURS! MONDAY - FRIDAY, 9:00 AM - 1:30 PM
We can’t believe it either – it’s almost time to register for Summer Camp! Learn more on page 11.
Featuring fresh coffee and baked goods from Baked by Yael, sandwiches, and daily soups from Soupergirl!
Check out Cafritz Hall’s spring lineup on pages 14 and 15. 3
Personal Training at the EDCJCC!
EDCJCC Fitness Center personal trainers are nationally-certified and can help you set goals, keep you motivated, set up a complete program suited to your individual needs, and more. Learn more today at edcjcc.org/personaltraining.
FULLY RENOVATED FITNESS CENTER | BRAND NEW EQUIPMENT INDOOR POOL | PERSONAL TRAINING | DEDICATED GROUP EXERCISE SPACES NEW ACCESSIBLE LOCKER ROOMS | AND MORE!
EDLAVITCH DCJCC FITNESS CENTER
Take advantage of discounts for seniors, young professionals, and students – come try us out with a free one-day pass! 4
FITNESS
EDCJCC.ORG/FITNESS
Ongoing
FITNESS MEMBERSHIP TOURS Come see the new facilities!
We’re offering daily visits in the morning and afternoon for current, renewing, and prospective members. Meet with membership staff and learn about all that the Edlavitch DCJCC has to offer. To schedule a tour, visit edcjcc.org/membershiptours. To tour the preschool, contact miriams@edcjcc.org.
March 21 – April 25 Registration opens on March 4
Ongoing
FREE GROUP EXERCISE CLASSES FOR MEMBERS
SPRING SWIM LESSONS FOR INFANTS AND CHILDREN
The EDCJCC’s trained and certified group fitness instructors provide a social, supportive, and motivational atmosphere, no matter your fitness level or experience. New classes include Les Mills® Body Combat and GRIT, Completely Core, Body Strong, and Doonya Dance.
Trained swim instructors provide expert guidance and support for new and experienced swimmers ages five and under. Swim lessons fill up fast, so we strongly recommend that you sign up early to help ensure your spot!
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MORRIS CAFRITZ CENTER FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY EDCJCC.ORG/VOLUNTEER
HADAR AT THE EDCJCC Thursday, March 5, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM
GOD, HUMANITY, AND THE REST OF CREATION: JEWISH THEOLOGY IN A TIME OF CLIMATE EMERGENCY Join Hadar Rabbi Shai Held to discuss how our Jewish community can and should respond to the climate emergency in which we live, through the lens of Jewish texts and teachings.
Sundays and Thursdays, March 1 & 26, April 5 & 30, May 3 & 21
HUNGER ACTION
Volunteers meet at the EDCJCC or DC Central Kitchen to prepare food for those most in need in our community.
Sunday, May 3, 1:00 PM – 4:15 PM
TORAH FOR THE #METOO MOVEMENT
Featuring Hadar’s leading female Rabbis Aviva Richman, Avi Killip, and Avi Strausberg, this is an afternoon of exploration and reflection of Torah for the #MeToo movement. Learn more about these programs on page 16.
Sundays, March 22, April 26, May 17, 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM
HANDMADE FOR THE HOMELESS
Get together to knit and crochet warm winter items that benefit individuals who are experiencing homelessness.
Sunday, April 26
SARA AND SAMUEL J. LESSANS GOOD DEEDS DAY
Join the EDCJCC, the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington, and the entire Washington Jewish community, along with millions of volunteers around the world for this fun, family-friendly annual Day of Service.
MONDAY, APRIL 13, 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM
SPRING BLOOD DRIVE Every 17 seconds, someone in the DC metro area needs a blood donation. Help us replenish the quicklydiminishing blood reserve at our quarterly blood drive. In partnership with Inova Blood Services.
Projects will include creating activity kits, snacks, treats, and instant meals for people experiencing hunger and homelessness.
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FAMILIES SERVING TOGETHER Sunday, March 8, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
PURIM CARNIVAL EDITION
Celebrate Purim and give back with other families. Learn more about this program on page 10.
Sunday, April 19, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
ANACOSTIA COMMUNITY MUSEUM TOUR AND DISCUSSION
Experience a guided tour of the Anacostia Community Museum’s current exhibit A Right to the City, which explores more than five decades of neighborhood change in the nation’s capital, as well as the rich history of organizing and civic engagement that accompanied it. Afterwards, join a short discussion about your own neighborhood and its changing landscape.
Sunday, May 31, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Kingman Island
ANACOSTIA RIVER CLEAN-UP
Spend the morning on Kingman Island cleaning up trash to make it safer for all to enjoy, then take a boat tour of the Anacostia River with the Anacostia Riverkeeper to learn more about the river and the communities on its banks.
Monthly, May – October
URBAN GARDENING TEAM
Join us once a month to garden for good! We will work with the GW Urban Garden and the Franciscan Monastery Garden Guild to plant, weed, water, and harvest for the benefit of Miriam’s Kitchen, DC Central Kitchen, and other nonprofits fighting food insecurity and homelessness in the District.
Wednesday, May 13, 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
FOOD JUSTICE IN DC: HOW TO GET INVOLVED
Kick off the summer and growing season by learning about food justice work happening in the District and how you can get involved. Delicious farm-totable dinner included! 7
May 7 – 24
MORRIS CAFRITZ CENTER FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY AT JxJ
Join us for curated events during JxJ, the hybrid arts festival encompassing the Washington Jewish Film and Music Festivals.
PARENTING CENTER EDCJCC.ORG/PARENTING
CHILD-AND-CAREGIVER CLASSES
Looking for spring activities? Check out our Parenting Center classes for infants and toddlers! Options include music, dance, yoga, gymnastics, soccer, and more. Read more and register at edcjcc.org/totsclasses.
PARENT COFFEES
Join us for coffee, the company of other new parents, and a relaxed conversation about a series of topics led by local experts. Come with questions to these judgement-free conversations. Babies warmly welcomed!
Thursday, March 26, 10:00 AM
RETURNING TO WORK... OR NOT Led by Randi Braun - Coach, Speaker, and Founder of Something Major.
Thursday, April 30, 10:00 AM
TAKING YOUR OWN NEWBORN PHOTOS — LEARNING FROM A PROFESSIONAL
Led by Kimberly Goldwein, newborn and family photographer of Kimberly Goldwein Photography.
Wednesday, March 18, 7:30 PM
THE OTHER KIND OF SMART: ENHANCING YOUR CHILD’S EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE
Emotional intelligence is essential for academic and life success, perhaps even more so than cognitive ability. In this workshop, we’ll learn how you, as parents, can coach your children through the turbulent world of childhood emotions to develop stronger emotional awareness, greater self-control, and closer connections with others. Led by Ann Rowe and Lauren Siegel of the Kingsbury Wellness & Learning Group. 8
NESTED one-day worksho BOOTCAMPS
ps
Presented in partnership with Nested.
Sunday, March 15 or April 26, 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
CHILDBIRTH EDUCATION Nested’s Childbirth Education Boot Camp will prepare you for your journey through labor, delivery, and the postpartum period.
Sunday, May 3 or May 17, 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
NEWBORN CARE BOOT CAMP Thursday, April 23, 7:30 PM
RAISING TOUGH TARGETS: WHAT PARENTS CAN DO TO KEEP KIDS SAFE FROM SEXUAL ABUSE
Sexual abuse and prevention is an uncomfortable subject. Unfortunately, it’s also something we parents have to think about. In this candid workshop with the goal of empowering parents, we’ll discuss the key questions to ask, red flags to look for, and how to feel confident raising this issue in the first place. Led by Meira Ellias, a mom, clinical social worker, and psychotherapist.
Nested’s Newborn Care Boot Camp is a comprehensive class that will prepare you for the moment your baby is born through the first few anxiety-provoking months. This is a perfect class for biological, adoptive, or foster parents, friends, caregivers, nannies, and grandparents.
Wednesday, May 20, 7:00 PM
PATHWAYS TO PARENTHOOD
Thinking about growing your family or looking for support after struggling to conceive? Join us for an informal discussion about different paths to family building. Our panel will include a fertility doctor, representatives from an adoption agency and the DC foster care system, a lawyer who facilitates egg donor and gestational carrier agreements, and parents who have built families in a variety of ways. Before and after the panel, there will be time for informal connecting and community building. LGBTQ and straight, couples and single parents, Jewish and non-Jewish — are all warmly welcomed. Come prepared to ask questions and plug in for support. Co-presented with GLOE – the EDCJCC’s Kurlander Program for GLBTQ Outreach & Engagement.
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FAMILY ENGAGEMENT EDCJCC.ORG/FAMILIES
PRESCHOOL OPEN ENROLLMENT! Our year-round Preschool provides a full day of learning and fun for children ages 2-5. Our fully renovated facility includes brand new light-filled classrooms, play spaces, an art room, a dedicated new elevator and stairwell, and more. Now accepting enrollment for the 20/21 school year!
Visit edcjcc.org/preschool to learn more.
Sunday, March 8, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
FAMILY PURIM CARNIVAL
When was the last time you dressed up like a queen or king? Now is your chance! Dress up and enjoy this festive holiday with carnival games, arts and crafts, hamantaschen (yummy Purim treats), and a community service project with the Morris Cafritz Center for Social Responsibility. Little ones are welcome at this carnival geared towards ages 3–6.
Sunday, April 5, 10:30 AM – 12:00PM
MAKE ROOM FOR MATZAH
Join us for a hands-on workshop open to Jewish and interfaith families to get ready for Passover and learn more about the holiday. Your family will make items to enliven your seder with hands-on projects, plus songs, stories, and snacks. Co-sponsored by PJ Library in Greater Washington, Love and Religion: An Interfaith Workshop for Jews and their Partners, the Milton Gottesman Jewish Day School of the Nation’s Capital, the Capital Jewish Museum, and Jews United for Justice.
Sunday, May 10, 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM
CITYJEWS POP-UP: LAG B’OMER AT ROCK CREEK PARK
You and your family are invited to join us to learn about this lesser-known festival and enjoy the campfire, family activities, roasting (kosher) marshmallows for s’mores, and singing songs. All couples and families are welcome! Co-presented by PJ Library and Love & Religion: An Interfaith Couples Workshop for Jews and their Partners. This event is made possible through the Marion Usher Fund for Interfaith Programs at the EDCJCC. 10
JFAMILY AMBASSADORS
Does your family have a newborn or tot up to 36 months? Your neighborhood JFamily Ambassador will get to know your family, help you make connections, and engage you in Jewish life in DC. For details and a list of all upcoming programs visit edcjcc.org/jfamily.
JFamily Ambassadors is funded by the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington and the United Jewish Endowment Fund.
Saturday, March 7, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
PLAYTIME AND HAVDALAH AT THE LANE
Celebrate the end of Shabbat and the start of a new week with JFamily at the brand-new Lane Social Club! This evening will include open play, story time, delicious snacks, and a family Havdalah service.
Friday, March 13 and May 1, 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
TOT SHABBAT
We will sing songs, read stories, and share snacks to bring in Shabbat. This child-friendly program is open to all; no JCC membership is required.
Monday, March 23, 7:00 PM
TRIVIA PARENTS NIGHT OUT AT FRANKLIN HALL
Whether you are a trivia veteran or a first time player, come out and help Team JFamily show that as parents, we know things!
Sunday, April 19, 10:00 AM
RAISING CHILDREN IN AN INTERFAITH FAMILY OR PREDOMINANTLY NON-JEWISH COMMUNITY
Join us for brunch and a discussion about the challenges of raising Jewish children in an interfaith family or predominantly non-Jewish community. The brunch is adult-focused but childcare and children’s programming will be available. The discussion is geared toward interfaith families, but all are welcome.
Co-sponsored by PJ Library, Honeymoon Israel, Love and Religion: An Interfaith Workshop for Jews and Their Partners, and the Marion Usher Fund for Interfaith Programs at the EDCJCC.
Registration now open!
JCAMPS 2020
Registration for JCamps 2020 — the EDCJCC’s summer camp program — is now open! Join us for traditional, specialty, teen, and leadership programs for campers of all abilities ages 4–16. One- and two-week sessions available from June 22 – August 28. Visit edcjcc.org/camp to learn more and register today!
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THEATER J THEATERJ.ORG
Erin Weaver and Kimberly Gilbert in Theater J’s production of Sheltered. Photo by Teresa Castracane.
February 19 – March 15
THE WANDERERS
By Anna Ziegler Directed by Amber McGinnis
Esther and Schmuli are Satmar Hasidic Jews embarking on an arranged marriage, despite barely knowing each other. Abe and Julia are high-profile celebrities embarking on a dangerously flirtatious correspondence, despite being married to other people. On the surface, the lives of these two couples couldn’t be more different, but the hidden connections between them draw the audience into an intriguing puzzle and a deeply sympathetic look at modern love. From the award-winning writer of Photograph 51 and Actually comes this insightful, and moving new play, which Entertainment Today called “one of the best written, most clever and tightly constructed plays I have seen this year… should not be missed.”
MARCH 27 – APRIL 19
BECOMING DR. RUTH Written by Mark St. Germain Directed by Holly Twyford
America’s favorite sex therapist returns! Before she became Dr. Ruth Westheimer, Karola Siegel had to flee Germany in the Kindertransport, become a sniper in Jerusalem, and survive as a single mother in America. Naomi Jacobson, who earned a Helen Hayes Award nomination for the role, made this inventive production a must-see event of the 2017–2018 DC theater season. Don’t miss the return of this triumphant and life-affirming story of a girl who finds her own unique place in the world. Illustrations by Donald Ely.
“Jacobson is captivating from start to finish.” — MD Theater Guide 12
TUESDAYS, APRIL 7 - MAY 19, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
CLASSES FOR THEATER LOVERS: BEYOND THE SCRIPT
Take a deep dive into Theater J’s 2020–2021 plays in a friendly, book club-like setting. Understand how a theater professional analyzes a script as we read and discuss fascinating Jewish plays. Get a special sneak-peek into next year’s plays and insight into how they are chosen. Taught by Theater J Artistic Director Adam Immerwahr.
THEATER J’S 30TH ANNIVERSARY SEASON Subscribe now at theaterj.org!
Incident at Vichy
By Arthur Miller Directed by Joe Calarco October 14 – November 8, 2020
An American Classic, Reimagined
Tuesdays With Morrie
By Jeffrey Hatcher and Mitch Albom Directed by Jenna Duncan December 2 – 27, 2020 From the Best-Selling Memoir
Old Stock: A Refugee Love Story By Hannah Moscovitich Songs by Ben Caplan and Christian Barry Directed by Christian Barry January 6 – 24, 2021
An Edgy New Klezmer-inspired Musical
Nathan the Wise
By Gotthold Ephraim Lessing Adapted by Michael Bloom Directed by Adam Immerwahr Produced in association with Folger Theatre February 17 – March 14, 2021
An 18th Century Shakespearean Fable
The Red Beads
By Rinne Groff Based on the The Rented Bridegroom by Osip Dymov Directed by Johanna Gruenhut April 7 – May 2, 2021 A Funny and Moving New Play
Fires in the Mirror MONDAY, APRIL 6, 7:00 PM
YIDDISH THEATER LAB: ONE OF THOSE
Written by Paula Prilutski, adapted and translated by Allen Lewis Rickman Directed by Kevin Place
When Judith, still reeling from the loss of her mother, clashes with her father’s new wife, she rebels against the patriarchy and is thrown out of her home. With no options available, the strong-willed Judith makes choices she will forever regret. Despite her best efforts and the help of family and friends, Judith finds herself unable to escape the chains of her history. 13
By Anna Deveare Smith Directed by Adam Immerwahr Co-produced with Theatrical Outfit (Atlanta) June 9 – July 4, 2021
The Groundbreaking Documentary Play Plus a Special Engagement! The Kinsey Sicks in Electile Dysfunction September 9 – 13, 2020
JxJ
JxJDC.ORG
NOW SCREENING IN CAFRITZ HALL
February 28 – March 5
March 6 – March 12
Two young women search for meaning and hope in the struggle to rebuild their lives amidst the ruins of Leningrad in 1945.
A crowd-pleasing comedy that dramatizes the founding of Israel’s Sephardi-Haredi political party.
BEANPOLE
Winner of the Best Director prize at the 2019 Cannes Film Festival
Thursday, March 19
ENVIRONMENTAL FILM FESTIVAL IN THE NATION’S CAPITAL
JxJ welcomes the Environmental Film Festival in the Nation's Capital—the world’s premier showcase of environmentally themed films—for a special screening as part of their 28th Annual Festival (March 12–22, 2020).
THE UNORTHODOX
Opening Night film at the Jerusalem International Film Festival and a hit at the 2019 JxJ Festival.
March 27 – April 1
CHICHINETTE: THE ACCIDENTAL SPY
Marthe Cohn, now 98 years old, shares the riveting true tale of how she became a spy for the French Resistance in Nazi Germany.
The film selection will be announced shortly – check JxJDC.org for info.
Sunday, March 1, 11:00 AM
KLEZMER BRUNCH WITH SETH KIBEL
Enjoy fantastic music paired with a delicious kosher buffet at our popular bi-monthly Klezmer brunch. A wonderful event for the whole family.
Breaking Bread
Beth Elise Hawk
Gazala Halabi
Sunday, March 22, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
21%: THE LIVES OF ARAB CITIZENS OF ISRAEL
Our 10th annual in-depth exploration of the daily lives and challenges of Arab citizens of Israel. The event will begin with the screening of Breaking Bread, an inspiring documentary about Dr. Nof AtamnaIsmaeel—the first Muslim Arab to win Israel’s MasterChef—who is on a quest to make social change through food. After the screening, Soupergirl co-founder Sara Polon will moderate a discussion between Breaking Bread director Beth Elise Hawk and celebrity chef Gazala Halabi, who celebrates her Israeli Druze heritage through the cuisine at her two lauded NYC restaurants. Then join us for a Shuk featuring tastings from local Israeli and Arab restaurants as well as information booths operated by non-profits and NGOs working to create an egalitarian shared society in Israel. Sponsored by the Greater Washington Forum on Israeli Arab Issues and the Edlavitch DCJCC. Lead Support provided by The Naomi and Nehemiah Cohen Foundation and The Lois and Richard England Family Foundation.
SAVE THE DATE
WASHING TON JE WIS H FILM + MUSIC FESTIVAL
F U L L L I N E - UP AN NO U NC E D I N MARC H AT
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JEWISH LIFE AND LEARNING EDCJCC.ORG/JEWISHLIFE
These programs are open to all who wish to experience and learn about Jewish culture, regardless of a participant’s faith or background.
HADAR AT THE EDCJCC
Sunday, May 3, 1:00 PM – 4:15 PM
TORAH FOR THE #METOO MOVEMENT
Featuring Hadar’s leading female Rabbis Aviva Richman, Avi Killip, and Avi Strausberg, join us for an afternoon of exploration and reflection of Torah for the #MeToo movement. Featured break out sessions include:
Hadar empowers Jews to create and sustain vibrant, practicing communities of Torah learning, prayer, and service.
From Abraham to Esther: Telling Our Stories in a #MeToo Era (Rabbi Aviva Richman) Many of the most formative and beloved stories of our tradition take on a different valence in the #MeToo era. What would it look like to notice and “lean in” to the difficult moments in our stories?
Thursday, March 5, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM
GOD, HUMANITY, AND THE REST OF CREATION: JEWISH THEOLOGY IN A TIME OF CLIMATE EMERGENCY WITH RABBI SHAI HELD
Difficult Texts and Difficult Testimony: How do we respond? (Rabbi Avi Killip) The #MeToo movement offered an unprecedented wave of written and oral testimony from women about their painful experiences of sexual assault and harassment. How do we approach similarly troubling and hurtful texts in the Torah?
We live in a time of unprecedented climate emergency: extreme weather events and rising sea levels endanger millions of lives. At this program led by Hadar Rabbi Shai Held, we will develop a textuallyrooted Jewish theology for this precarious moment and invite attendees to connect with Interfaith Power & Light, a grassroots group through which interfaith congregations are working together to respond to climate change.
The Halacha of Whisper Networks (Rabbi Avi Strausberg)
In the wake of the #MeToo movement, some women turned toward Whisper Networks — networks of people passing information from one another — for empowerment and protection. Are these Whisper Networks a legitimate way of warning and protecting future victims from abuse?
Co-presented by the Morris Cafritz Center for Social Responsibility and in partnership with Hadar and Interfaith Power & Light.
Sunday, March 8, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Frolick Dogs
PUPPY PAWRIM PARTY
Come celebrate Purim with your furry friends! We will have a pup costume contest, mishloach manot dog treat bags, and plenty of space for pups to play and explore. Frolick trainers will be on hand. People snacks also provided. 16
Thursdays, March 12 and March 26, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
TORAH OF OUR WORLD
In this series, we will continue to examine each of the five books of the Torah with an eye toward literary structure, broad themes, and historical context. The course draws upon the daily reflections of contributors to 929 English, a project dedicated to creating a global Jewish conversation and dedicated to issues that unite and divide us.
Thursday, March 12, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
HOT TOPICS IN JEWISH THOUGHT: REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS
At this session, we will take a close look at what the Talmud says about abortion and fetal status to help answer questions, in a Jewish context, such as when does life begin? Led by Rabbi Hyim Shafner of Kesher Israel: The Georgetown Synagogue.
Sunday, March 29, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
LOVE AND RELIGION INTENSIVE
Being part of an interfaith couple can be challenging, but you don’t need to find the answers alone. For 20 years, our workshop has been a model to guide couples in openly discussing issues they face as partners from two different backgrounds. Usually a four-part series, we are offering this special, day-long intensive for those looking to complete the workshop in a single day. Includes lunch! Led by Dr. Marion Usher.
Wednesday, April 1, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Thursday, April 9, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
SECOND NIGHT COMMUNITY SEDER
Join us at the newly renovated EDCJCC for a delicious (and kosher) traditional Passover meal featuring local and sustainably sourced ingredients. Whether you know all the customs and stories of Passover or you are just learning what questions to ask, there is a place for you at our seder table.
Families with young children are welcome. This year’s seder will be led by Amanda Herring, Manager of Jewish Life and Learning at the EDCJCC.
EVERYTHING YOU WANTED TO KNOW ABOUT MAKING A SEDER Friday, March 20, 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM
THIRD FRIDAYS BOOK CLUB: EXPLORING ISRAELI HISTORY THROUGH LITERATURE
✔ The seder plate, ✔ the Hagaddah, ✔ the guest list, ✔ the menu! Explore all the parts of creating a seder experience in this workshop. You’ll leave feeling confident and ready to host your first seder your own way, acknowledging your own traditions and Jewish identity.
Tuesdays, April 21 – June 9, 7:30 PM – 9:15 PM
INTRO TO JUDAISM
Come explore the rich fabric of Judaism! Using traditional texts and modern examples, we will cover the fundamentals of Jewish life, including Shabbat and holidays, prayer, lifecycle rituals, ethics, and beliefs. This class is ideal for learners with questions – whether you’ve never studied Judaism before in your life, you’re looking for a Hebrew School refresher, or you’re somewhere in between!
Gather with us on the third Friday of every month to join in discussion about the complex and vibrant history of modern day Israel through the eyes of its contemporary authors. Includes a vegetarian lunch. In this session, we’ll discuss The Best Place On Earth by Ayelet Tsabari, a collection of stories about the challenges of balancing old tradition with modern times.
Led by Johanna Potts.
Led by EDCJCC CEO Carole Zawatsky.
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ENTRYPOINTDC EDCJCC.ORG/EPDC
Connecting Jewish adults in their 20s and 30s.
Wednesday, March 4, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Monday, March 30, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Join us for an evening of Israeli wine tasting and to make Girl Scout cookie-inspired hamantaschen just in time for Purim. We will also do a tzedakah project in honor of the holiday.
One in five individuals experiences mental illness in any given year. Learn how to identify the signs of mental health disorders and what to do if your friend or family member is struggling. We will also discuss community resources and how we can work to eliminate stigma in our community surrounding this topic.
A PURIM PAIRING: GIRL SCOUT COOKIE HAMANTASCHEN MAKING & ISRAELI WINE TASTING
In partnership with Israeli House.
MENTAL HEALTH MONDAYS: BREAKING STIGMAS & HELPING OTHERS WITH MENTAL HEALTH DISORDERS
Optional Dinner: Friday, March 20, 7:00 PM Shabbat Clusters 1st Round Registration Deadline: Friday, March 13
SPRING SHABBAT CLUSTERS & SHABBAT CLUSTER KICK-OFF DINNER
Looking to meet new people and celebrate Shabbat in a casual, meaningful way? Shabbat Clusters are small groups that meet once a month for Shabbat dinner in each other’s homes and restaurants. This season we will have pre-planned Shabbat cluster meeting dates, new interest clusters, larger groups, funding for your meal, and more! All Shabbat Cluster participants are invited to the optional Kick-Off Dinner on March 20 at 7:00 PM. 18
Coming this Spring: Dates TBD
JEWS THAT JAM
Calling all young adult Jewish musicians and singers that love to make music! Meet and connect with other likeminded musicians at our jam session to form your temporary band. Practice with your new crew and then perform at our community concert. This year’s music theme will be announced soon!
April 1 – 6
COOKING INTEREST TRIBES: CHALLAH-OFF
Get your carbs in before Passover and join our Cooking Interest Tribe for a challah-off. Will you make Nutella French toast challah? Serve grilled and stuffed pesto and goat cheese challah with soup? DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia. Couples and 30 Somethings groups available.
Join our Google group listserves on our website to get more information.
Saturday, April 25, 8:00 PM – 12:00 AM
A VERY MRS. MAISEL 50s SPRING FLING
Photo Credit: Amazon Studios
Soak up that Jewish 50s vibe as we revel in all things Marvelous Mrs. Maisel! Learn to swing dance, hear stand-up comedy, play your favorite Catskill games, and grab a fancy cocktail! Don’t forget to wear your finest 50s attire and enter our costume contest where we will crown the Best Midge, Best Joel, and more of our favorite Maisel characters.
Wednesday, April 8 Registration Deadline: Monday, March 30
PASSOVER SATELLITE SEDERS
Staying in town for Passover? Let us set you up with other young professionals for first night seders! We’ll help you host or find a seder for you to attend. Already hosting at your home? Let us know if you have any open spaces at your table that we can help fill. 19
GLOE
EDCJCC.ORG/GLOE
The Kurlander Program for GLBTQ Outreach & Engagement
Wednesday, May 20, 7:00 PM
PATHWAYS TO PARENTHOOD
Thinking about growing your family or looking for support after struggling to conceive? Join us for an informal discussion about different paths to family building. LGBTQ and straight, couples and single parents, Jewish and nonJewish — are all warmly welcomed. Come prepared to ask questions and meet others for support. Learn more about this event on page 9.
Co-presented with the EDCJCC’s Parenting Center.
Saturday, March 7, 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM Mission Dupont Circle
GLOE PURIM MASQUERADE PARTY
Join GLOE for a night of drag, drinks, dancing, and a celebration of Purim. Come dressed in costume for the queerest annual Purim Party that always brings a huge, fun crowd!
Sunday, April 26
GLOE YOUTH AND FAMILY AT SARA & SAMUEL J. LESSANS GOOD DEEDS DAY
Meet GLOE families to do good for the community! We will be joining with others for a family-friendly service project. Co-presented by the Morris Cafritz Center for Social Responsibility.
See page 6 for more details.
May 7 – 24
GLOE AT JxJ
Connect with other LGBTQ+ friends and families for curated events during JxJ, the hybrid arts festival encompassing the Washington Jewish Film and Music Festivals.
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Sunday, April 5, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM Human Rights Campaign
THE 13TH ANNUAL NATIONAL RAINBOW SEDER
Now in its thirteenth year, the National Rainbow Seder is one of the nation’s largest and longest-running Passover events for the queer Jewish community and its allies.
Hosted in the Equality Center at the HRC headquarters in Washington, DC, this year’s program will feature a full Passover seder complete with a specially-commissioned Haggadah (the Jewish text containing the Passover story) retelling the traditional tale of Jewish triumphs of resistance alongside the hard-fought progress made by the LGBTQ equality movement in the years since the National Rainbow Seder’s inception.
Co-presented by the Human Rights Campaign’s Religion & Faith Program.
JOIN GLOE AND DC’S JEWISH COMMUNITY AT 2020 DC CAPITAL PRIDE
Saturday, June 6
Sunday, June 7
March with the GLOE contingent and our friends, families, and allies at the 45th annual Capital Pride Parade.
Visit the GLOE booth for fun swag and all the news on upcoming events for the LGBTQ+ Jewish community.
THE JEWISH COMMUNITY MARCHES TOGETHER
GLOE AT THE 2020 CAPITAL PRIDE FESTIVAL
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INCLUSION & DISABILITIES EDCJCC.ORG/INCLUSION
Individuals of all abilities are welcome to join us at any of these events. Anyone who needs support is welcome to bring a friend who will provide assistance during the program. For more information on accessibility, contact Joy Stein, Director of Inclusion and Disability Programs, at joys@edcjcc.org.
Tuesdays, March 3 and May 5; Monday, April 6, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
INCLUSION GAME NIGHT
Come for a night of games, friends, and fun. We’ll have chess, checkers, and cards — but bring your favorites, too! Pizza and snacks provided. Suitable for ages 15+
Monday, March 16, 7:00 PM
FILM SCREENING: INTELLIGENT LIVES
This film stars three pioneering young American adults with intellectual disabilities who challenge perceptions of intelligence as they navigate high school, college, and the workforce. Discussion to follow. Presented in partnership with RespectAbility.
Wednesdays, March 25, April 29, May 20 Bowlero, Bethesda
SOCIAL BOWLING POWER HOUR
Come join us for our monthly bowling night. Work on your bowling skills while enjoying pizza and social time with friends. All abilities welcome.
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Saturday, May 2, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
DREAM FOR KIDS DC PROM
Join Dreams for Kids DC and On the Edge Children’s Foundation to dance the night away at our annual prom.
Ongoing
VOCATIONAL VOLUNTEERING
The EDCJCC is always looking to add to our team of vocational volunteers, who help our various departments while also supporting personal growth and independent living skills. Opportunities include ticketing, data entry, ushering, working in our fitness center, and more. We create personal, consistent schedules in your areas of interest.
SUMMER OF SERVICE INCLUSION COMMUNITY SERVICE CAMP
High School Weeks (rising grades 9-12): June 22 – 26 or June 29 – July 2 Middle School Week (rising grades 6-8): July 6 – 10
Spend your summer making the world a better place. Teens of all abilities work directly with the EDCJCC’s Morris Cafritz Center for Community Service and Inclusion & Disability professionals to help change lives, making this inclusive service camp accessible and ensuring everyone enjoys the diversity of our community. Service opportunities may include food distribution and preparation, shelter repair, working with seniors, community clean-ups, and more. Campers earn up to 30 Student Service Learning (SSL) hours per week. 23
For more information, including sponsorship opportunities, visit edcjcc.org/springgala or contact emilyj@edcjcc.org.
SHANNON POWERS
SID MOSKOWITZ
GALA CO-CHAIRS
In recognition of their hard work and dedication as co-chairs of the Edlavitch DCJCC’s recent Capital Campaign.
MINDY STRELITZ
TINA SMALL
MELANIE FRANCO NUSSDORF
GINNY EDLAVITCH
ROSE COHEN
PRESENTING THE LEE G. RUBENSTEIN OUTSTANDING LEADERSHIP AWARD TO:
SPRING GALA
AT THE EDLAVITCH DCJCC
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 6:00 PM
SAVE THE DATE
The Edlavitch DCJCC embraces inclusion in all its programs and activities.
1529 Sixteenth Street, NW Washington, DC 20036