A Jewish Thanksgiving
I often tell my school aged children that you can never say “please” or “thank you” too much. It doesn’t get too old and no one will ever fault you for giving thanks and showing appreciation. Actually, the more sense of appreciation and thanks one gives, the better. There is no better time to reinforce this message for ourselves and our children than Thanksgiving.
These values associated with Thanksgiving are also core Jewish values. Actually, there is a blessing for almost everything in the Jewish tradition to express our gratitude. Before and after eating food, there a blessing thanking God for bringing forth bread from the earth and providing a world that will sustain us and satiate us through the food we eat. When we see wonders of nature there is a blessing that exists to thank God and show appreciation for the beauty of our world. We say blessings to mark special occasions such as when we buy new things or have a new experience. When a loved one dies, we say a special prayer called kaddish to honor their memory and to affirm life. The list of blessings go on and on.
One of the prayers in our daily liturgy reads, “We thank You (God) and praise You morning, noon and night for Your miracles which daily attend us and for Your wondrous kindness.” Some might not consider the daily occurrence of the sun rising and setting or the seasons or the air we breathe to be miraculous, but my guess is that most of us do not think about these things on a regular basis.
All of these Jewish blessings and prayers are designed and provided to us by the rabbis in our tradition so that we don’t take our lives for granted. Actually, the rabbis tell us that we should attempt to say one hundred blessings each day. So, as Americans sit around the table enjoying Turkey, pumpkin pie and all the other traditional Thanksgiving foods, I encourage us all to not miss this special time to show our thanks and appreciation for many things. Make a list of top ten things of which your family is appreciative. Go around the table and give the opportunity for everyone to share their thoughts. Do a community service project for someone who is as not blessed as you may be. Whatever works best for you, just don’t forget to express your thanks.
Ken yehi ratzon. So may it be God’s will!,
Rabbi Brad Horwitz
Rabbi Brad Horwitz
8 Youth Theatre 12 Fitness
Fiddler Legend Headlines Jewish Book Festival
Theo Bikel Appears as 36th Annual Keynote Author
Theodore Bikel will grace the stage at the 36th annual St. Louis Jewish Book Festival on the occasion of his 90th birthday year, a year in which he expanded his autobiography and stars in a new film, Theodore Bikel: In the Shoes of Sholom Aleichem. This year also marks the 50th anniversary of Fiddler on the Roof, in which Theo has performed the role of Tevye more than 2,000 times! To define versatility is to capture the essence of Theo Bikel: the actor on stage, screen and television; the folksinger and guitarist; the author, lecturer and raconteur; and the activist and arts advocate.
Bikel’s career is illuminated by superior stage, screen and television portrayals. In London, he won acclaim playing the Russian Colonel in The Love Of Four Colonels, and on Broadway his roster of memorable performances includes Tonight In Samarkand, The Rope Dancers, The Lark and the original Broadway production of The Sound Of Music in which he created the role of Baron von Trapp.
Bikel’s accomplished screen roles include The Defiant Ones (for which he received an Academy Award nomination), The African Queen, My Fair Lady, and The Russians Are Coming, The Russians Are Coming. Bikel’s television career in the United States spans some 35 years with roles in Alfred Hitchcock Presents, Law and Order, Murder She Wrote, Star Trek: The Next Generation and many others.
‘Retiring’ - within that word is ‘tiring,’ and I’m not tired. I don’t believe in retirement, really.
Born in 1924 in Vienna, Theo Bikel was thirteen when he and his parents left Austria for Palestine. Bikel is fluent in Hebrew, Yiddish and German, with a respectable command of English and French. He has recorded 20 record albums, mostly for the Elektra label, and co-founded of the Newport Folk Festival.
Don’t Miss This Living Legend!
See additional authors appearing on page 7
Theodore Bikel
Theodore Bikel
Fitness for Everybody = No Excuses
Body Transformations Inspire
It’s time to switch things up! You’ve been looking at the same scenery, lifting the same weights, and pressing the same buttons on your treadmill. It’s time to explore how to freshen up your workout – the J is the right place at the right time. The J has more options than you may realize to charge up your workouts and get your blood pumping. The holidays are right around the corner – are you ready?
If you haven’t picked up the most recent J Program Guide, there are nine pages of fitnessrelated programs. We have more than 32 certified personal trainers to guide you, motivate you and get in your face if necessary to set and achieve fitness goals. These dedicated professionals lead a plethora of classes, train individual and small groups and instruct specialty training. Beyond the fitness center, another 50 plus instructors will encourage and inspire you in group exercise classes. There’s no end!
Getting Started
All J members are entitled to an annual fitness and wellness checkup. In this case it’s a Fitness Consultation done by one of our certified trainers. If you’re already oriented with the fitness center, then use it for body measurements comparisons and advice on where to take your fitness goals. Members are entitled to one free consultation a year, schedule yours today.
See a Difference in Six Weeks
Transforming your body isn’t easy. Joining a group of likeminded people, all with similar goals, led by a trainer, makes the transformation much more achievable. Six-Week Body Transformation groups have been sprouting up all over both J locations and there’s room for more.
Bride-to-be and J member Meredith Tate decided this route may work in preparation for her wedding. She got the results she wanted and so much more!
Tate recalls deciding to join the program to lose some weight for her upcoming nuptials. “I wasn’t sure what to expect – but I definitely wasn’t expecting to make friends and lose eight whole inches from my body in only six weeks. The 6 Week program kept me on a strict workout schedule (which I need, as follow-through isn’t always my strongest attribute), and it definitely paid off.” She continued, “During the program, my now-husband frequently commented that I appeared to have more energy during the day. Multiple people at my wedding, whom I hadn’t seen since before starting the program, commented on my weight loss, and the muscle tone I gained in my arms. I enjoyed the people, the program, and the results so much, that I decided to sign up for the next round and keep going, even though my wedding is over.”
Small group workouts, like the 6 Week program, are perfect for those looking for a push. They offer a dedicated personal trainer, peer motivation, tracking of body measurements, fitness and diet tips and three workouts a week over the course of six weeks. The other bonus is the low cost per session of receiving 18 training sessions, with a trainer – it can’t be beat!
Jeniffer Owens, another 6 Week participant credits the program for changing her life.
“I started the 6 Week Body Transformation program at my heaviest weight and my lowest confidence level.” Owens reveals. “I couldn’t do a lunge, squat, or even 10 full sit-ups. At 33, exercise had never been a part of my life and food had been the center of it which showed on my 5’4” frame. Learning about healthier food choices, keeping a food journal, and committing to my weekly workouts has resulted in me losing over 30 inches and 30 pounds!” [Personal trainers] Jason Davis and Malinda Walker have been amazing! This program is not only challenging but it’s also very supportive and gives you the tools to change your life!”
Groups are forming and ongoing at both J locations. Don’t put off until tomorrow when you want to make a change today. New groups begin soon.
Specialty Groups Explode on the Scene
Signature Training consists of specialty groups that meet once a week. Programs impose demanding effort, but provide outstanding results. There are several variations of classes to choose from, so you can decide what works best for you. Monthly registration is encouraged so you can see results and form bonds with fellow participants, but a one-class experience is welcome.
Signature Small Groups (Fox Bldg)
No Boys Allowed: Women’s Strength & Conditioning –pretty much exactly as it sounds
Tread & Shred – create the runner you’ve always wanted to be, focusing on running form, ability, plyomentrics and strength exercises
Insanity® Plus – intense cardio and conditioning program targeting the whole body
Golf Fitness – a new program geared toward core stability, strength straining and muscle memory used for golf
Signature Small Groups (SFC)
Box Your BEST – cardio and strength driven class using boxing training methods and techniques
TRX & Battle Rope Boot Camp – challenging workouts primarily using TRX suspension straps and similar fitness equipment
J.A.M.M.A. Fitness – cardio intense workout using several self-defense methods, designed to develop speed, power, balance, agility, core strength and more
Motivation + Attitude = Results and Gratitude
Craig Goldford’s Success Story
One of the most common reasons that adults turn to fitness in mid-life is a desire to recapture a modicum of youthfulness and energy. Often it is simply to improve health and well-being. These two important aspects, coupled with a longing to once again incorporate a dedication to fitness from earlier in life, are what propelled Craig Goldford into taking a most important step in his journey toward wellness.
Craig grew up at the J. From participating in racquetball and basketball games as a teen to working in the cafes, he has wonderful memories of his time spent here. The only problem was a 35-year hiatus, during which time Craig admits to having become a “couch potato.” While his wife and children are avid exercisers
continued on page 14
Also available: Suspension Training, Rise & Sweat Boot Camp, IMPACT (Outdoor) Boot Camp & Box Your Best Jr.
TRX & Battle Rope Boot Camp and Suspension Training instructor Valerie Silberman loves watching her participants gain strength, sometime without even realizing it.
“Activities in class can be easily modified to provide hardcore intense training, a moderate challenge or an introductory full body workout! It is a smart, highly effective exercise tool which always has a focus on the body’s core.”
continued on page 14
Confidence Shines with Ongoing
Commitment
Positive Fitness Journey has been Realized
Bad gym experiences and lack of direction led Kay and Jesse Stansberry to the doors of the J in Feb. 2012. It’s unfortunate when gyms fail to realize the potential their members hold. But to the good fortune of both the J and Kay (and Jesse), Kay has not only dipped into her untapped potential, she has grabbed on with both hands and revitalized her life.
Kay took advantage immediately of the free fitness consultation all members are entitled to the day after joining, meeting with personal trainer Joe Ryan. She had never worked with a trainer before, but felt it was important to get professional help as she looked to start a positive fitness journey.
“I wasn’t sure what to expect when I starting working with Joe. At first I just wanted to make it through our sessions without passing out or throwing up,” Kay recalls. “I was surprised how quickly my fitness [levels] improved and that I was able to do more intense and demanding exercises.”
continued on page 15
New Jewish Theatre 18th Season
Becoming Dr. Ruth by Mark St. Germain 12/4-12/21
NJT Vets Young and Old Star in Diary of Anne Frank
“Chai” Season Offers Life Affirming Shows All Season
The New Jewish Theatre (NJT) opened its 2014-15 “Chai” season with its first ever production of the iconic play The Diary of Anne Frank. In the previous 17 seasons we have never before presented this play with its very large cast and scenic demands. But with our chai season of life-affirming theatre, it is fitting that we opened with a play that expresses feelings of hope and inspiration even in the darkest hours.
Imagining Madoff by Deb Margolin 1/22-2/8
Sight Unseen by Donald Margulies 3/12-3/29
The play featured NJT Artistic Associate and St. Louis professional theatre legend, Bobby Miller who played the role of Otto Frank. Bobby returned to the stage after a 20 year hiatus with the 2008 NJT production of The Tale of the Allergist’s Wife. Since then, he hasn’t looked back. He has worked for most of the St. Louis local theatres, either as actor or director and has received many awards and accolades for his work. As Artistic Associate for NJT, Bobby either directs or acts in one or two productions most every season. He was last on stage for NJT in the record breaking production of Old Jews Telling Jokes. Up next for Bobby for NJT, he will appear with his lifelong friend Wayne Solomon in an on-stage reunion (first time on stage together in more than 25 years) in Imagining Madoff. In March he will direct the Donald Margulies play, Sight Unseen
My Mother’s Lesbian Jewish Wiccan Wedding, a Musical
David Hein & Irene Sankoff 5/7-5/31
For complete descriptions and ticket information visit newjewishtheatre.org or call 314-442-3283. Full season brochures are also available at both J locations.
In addition to the Frank family, there was another family who hid with them in the hopes attic, the Van Daans. Their son Peter and Anne became very close, sharing secrets, hopes and dreams. The role of Peter in our production was portrayed by Leo Ramsey. Leo is an incredibly talented 17-year-old. He has attended the Grand Center Arts Academy and has hopes of continuing a career in theatre. You may have seen Leo on stage for NJT as one of the young boys in Way to Heaven in 2012 and again as one of the two young brothers in Lost in Yonkers. In addition, Leo counts among his credits work with Shakespeare Festival St. Louis this summer in their productions of Henry IV and Henry V. He has also appeared in many of their educational shows. As a member of the Muny Kids and Teens, Leo has appeared on the Muny stage as a member of the Youth Chorus in many productions since 2008. When he makes it big, you can say you saw him on the NJT stage!
will be next to take the NJT stage, opening December 4. Tickets are available at newjewishtheatre.org or 314-442-3283. By purchasing a prorated season subscription, you can save money and have unlimited ticket exchange privileges. Subscriptions are available through the box office, or by calling 314-4423283.
Bobby Miller
Leo Ramsey
2014 Jewish Book Festival at a Glance
For book descriptions and a complete schedule, pick up a brochure at either J location or visit stljewishbookfestival.org
Date Author
11/2
11/4
11/5
11/6
11/7
11/10
Theodore Bikel
Title
Theo: An Autobiography
Barbara Isenberg Tradition!
Linda Fairstein
Andrew Gross
Joel Hoffman
Cindy Chupack
Geralyn Lucas
Lynn Sherr
Judith Fein
Mark Stein
Hesh Kestin
Hank Phillippi Ryan
Cynthia Frohlichstein
Michael Kahn
Terminal City
Everything to Lose
The Bible’s Cutting Room Floor: The Holy Scriptures Missing from Your Bible
The Longest Date: Life as a Wife
Then Came Life: Living with Courage, Spirit, and Gratitude After Breast Cancer
Sally Ride: America’s First Woman in Space
The Spoon from Minkowitz:
A Bittersweet Roots Journey to Ancestral Lands
American Panic: A History of Who Scares Us and Why
The Lie
Truth Be Told
The Peanut Butter Birthday Party
Face Value: A Rachel Gold Mystery
Howard Levinson The Tapping
Carmel Chiswick
David Greene
Josh Fattal
Steven Pressman
11/11
Lauren Grodstein
Alyson Richman
Michael Garlin
Annabelle Gurwitch
Dr. Dina Rose
11/12
11/13
11/16
Judaism in Transition: How Economic Choices Shape Religious Tradition
Midnight in Siberia:
A Train Journey Into the Heart of Russia
A Sliver of Light: Three Americans Imprisoned in Iran
50 Children: One Ordinary
American Couple’s Extraordinary Rescue Mission into the Heart of Nazi Germany
The Explanation for Everything
The Garden of Letters
Powerful Questions to Help You Move Forward in Your Life
I SEE YOU MADE AN EFFORT: Compliments, Indignities, and Survival Stories from the Edge of 50
It’s Not About the Broccoli: Three Habits to Teach Your Kids for a Lifetime of Healthy Eating
Dr. Logan Levkoff Got Teens? The Doctor Moms’ Guide to Sexuality, Social Media and Other Adolescent Realities
Carl Hoffman
Savage Harvest: A Tale of Cannibals, Colonialism, and Michael Rockefeller’s Tragic Quest for Primitive Art
Rose Levy Beranbaum The Baking Bible
Al Clark
Myron Holtzman
Kostya Kennedy
Mitchell Bard
Tracey Davis
Mathew Klickstein
Authors are subject to change without notice.
Called Out But Safe: A Baseball Umpire’s Journey
Cardinals of Cooperstown, Second Edition
Pete Rose: An American Dilemma
Death to the Infidels:
Radical Islam’s War Against the Jews
Sammy Davis Jr.: A Personal Journey with My Father
SLIMED! An Oral History of Nickelodeon’s Golden Age
Lynn Sherr
David Greene
Dr. Dina Rose
Al Clark
Abigail Karandjeff Loves the Challenge of Theatre
Teens Tackle Shakespeare with Twelfth Night
From an early age, Abigail Karandjeff took to the stage and grabbed the spotlight. This fall Abigail will appear in her seventh J Youth Theatre production, this time tackling Shakespeare in Twelfth Night. No stranger to the stage, she began performing while in first grade and is currently in eighth grade. Abigail is excited to take on the character of Olivia. She says, “Olivia is sassy. She knows what she wants and doesn’t take no for an answer.”
Her favorite role at the J so far has been playing Golda from Fiddler on the Roof Jr. She has also appeared in productions at STAGES, along with other J productions of Riddikulus (a musical spoof of Harry Potter), Hairspray, Free to Be and others. Beyond the stage, Abigail enjoys singing, honing her voice with lessons through Webster University, playing viola, hanging out with friends and maintaining a solid foundation by working hard in school.
Her character in Twelfth Night is Olivia, a wealthy countess who has every intention of mourning her brother’s recent death for seven years. That is, until she meets Cesario, who is actually Viola – a young woman disguised as a boy. As Cesario, Viola enters the service of Duke Orsino. The Duke falls in love with Olivia, Olivia falls for Cesario (who is actually Viola) and Viola (who pretends to be Cesario) falls in love with the Duke. As Shakeperean love triangles go, Twelfth Night takes it to a new level. Come and see the play to see how it’s all sorted out.
Your Entertainment Awaits You!
Come watch our young J actors shine!
Teen Theatre (6th-9h Grade)
Twelfth Night
Abigail is looking forward to working on Twelfth Night to both get a chance to be with her friends and watch everyone create and develop their characters. After researching the intricacies of the character, she is up to the challenge and very excited to play Olivia. Abigail considers this group not only her fellow actors, but also some of her closest friends.
Thu, Dec 4 – 7pm Sun, Dec 7 – 3:30pm
$10 in advance / $12 at the door
Theatre Chaverim (3rd-6th Grade)
There’s a Monster in my Closet!
Thu, Dec 18 – 7pm Sun, Dec 21 – 3:30pm
$8 in advance / $10 at the door
All shows at the Staenberg Family Complex in Creve Coeur
Mirowitz Performing Arts Center
Get your tickets today at the SFC Box Office, call 314-442-3175, at brownpapertickets.com or at the door.
Laura Enstall, Youth Theatre Coordinator, has seen this group of young actors grow since rehearsals started. “Teen Theatre is a really amazing group of students who support one another and love theatre,” she says. “Watching Abigail, along with the rest of the cast come together is great and gets you excited about the production. I know the amount of hard work that all the kids put into the performance and to see it all come together is just a blast.”
See Twelfth Night
You can see Abigail, along with her eighteen castmates, in Twelfth Night on December 4 at 7:00pm and December 7 at 3:30pm at the Staenberg Family Complex (SFC) – Performing Arts Center. Tickets are available at the SFC Box Office, by calling 314-442-3175 or online at brownpapertickets.com
Abigail (far right) in Fiddler on the Roof, jr.
Abigail in Romeo & Juliet
New Camp Director Leads a Summer of Memories
J Day Camps has a new leader. Camp Director Brad Chotiner, affectionately known as “Chots,” reflects on the success of his first St. Louis J Day Camp. From flagpole to Shabbat and ruach (spirit) to friendships, camp was a blast!
A Note from Chots
At the beginning of the summer I mentioned to several people that one of my favorite things about my job is that I still get to go to camp at my age – after all, camp is a lot of fun! I continue to thanks everyone involved for making my first summer as director a fantastic experience.
My favorite part of each day happens first thing in the morning at flagpole (where campers gather to start their day). At the end of our flagpole rituals the campers would all break into “This Land is Your Land,” and it always put a smile on my face. The rest of the day kept the smile there. My favorite part of each week was Shabbat, with songs and dances, flying Challah, tons of ruach and that awesome feeling of community that only camp creates.
I had so many cool experiences this summer…working with a great staff, meeting so many smiling campers and their families, watching friendships blossom, helping kids learn new skills and most of all just having a lot of fun with everyone.
As you take a look at these pictures take some time and think about some of your favorite moments from your summers as a kid. Did they involve a day camp? You can give your child the same opportunity to create these memories at the J. We have already started planning for the summer of 2015. Have a wonderful school year and we’ll see everyone at a J Day Camp soon!
• Campers discover their strengths through activities, friendships and community
• We have the best staff in the land!
• Our fabulous Director, Terri Grossman, will be spending her 8th summer as Director (and 20th year at camp!)
• Your child will be regularly encouraged to try new things by our awesome staff
• As a parent, you will get personalized attention in a timely manner!
Contact: Kim Holtzman-Sloan, 314-442-3151 or kim@campsabra.com campsabra.com facebook.com/campsabra
Celebrate Hands-on Hanukkah with the J
The J’s Helene Mirowitz Family Center is one of ten communities in the United States to participate in the Jewish Outreach Institute’s Public Space Judaism program, “Hands-on Hanukkah.” This program seeks to
create an entry point to Judaism by finding less engaged, unaffiliated or intermarried Jewish families this season and offering a low-barrier holiday program which takes place in a public space. Through training sessions and financial assistance, the J is able to implement their successful national, interactive program that reaches out to people where they shop in the weeks before Hanukkah. According to the Jewish Outreach Institute, “Offering free samples and fun activities, this hands-on program is a great way for families with young children to experience the holiday of Hanukkah and learn about their local Jewish community.”
Barnes and Noble at Ladue Crossing will host the St. Louis event on Sunday, December 14 from 10-11:30am. Activities will include music, photos, dreidel spin-off, a register-to-win gift basket, Shalom Sesame coloring sheets and more. All families are welcome to this free event.
The J’s Early Childhood Center will also be hosting their annual book fair that day in the store, and offering free gift wrapping and other activities.
The J is excited to be chosen to bring this national program to our St. Louis Jewish community and hope that you’ll come out and join in the fun. Program is co-sponsored with PJ Library.
Free, Family-Friendly Hanukkah Fun
Beginning December 16, families all over the world will begin the eight night celebration of Hanukkah. This joyous festival brings families together and looks at faith liberty. The faith in the candles lasting eight days and freedom and liberty to be allowed to worship freely and practice whatever religion you desire, something on the very forefront in today’s world.
Beyond the deeper meanings, Hanukkah allows for creativity and imagination. It offers children the opportunity to create and embellish the holiday, whether making menorahs, playing the dreidel game or helping in the kitchen with delicious latkes! These are a few ideas to make your Hanukkah more fun and memorable for everyone. Put your own twists on them and create new family traditions.
Create Your Own Menorah
There are several ways to make an original “work of art” menorah. You can gather toilet paper and paper towel cardboard rolls or search online for menorah kits that may include clay and other materials. You can then paint them and add your own personal touch.
Draw a Handprint Menorah
This is something fun for little children. Have them cross their hands while laying them on a piece of paper, overlapping the picky finger, then trace around the nine all the fingers. With the overlapping pinkies, you have nine slots. Now color, use tissue paper or anything you want to make them look beautiful!
Dreidel Fun
Hold a family dreidel tournament. After lighting the candles, you can see who can spin the dreidel the longest or in the craziest way (upside down, with their eyes closed, in a small area, etc.)
Look online for dreidel coloring pages. Let the kids decorate the fridge with coloring sheets from all the themes of Hanukkah. You can also create your own dreidel using a milk carton, tape, pencil, paper and tape (full directions are online).
Storytelling
Gather the family in the glow of the lit menorah and re-tell the story of Hanukkah or share other Hanukkah tales. You may like to read Latkes, Latkes Good to Eat by Naomi Howland (Clarion), When Mindy Saved Hanukkah by Eric Kimmel (Scholastic), or The Christmas Menorahs: How a Town Fought Hate by Janice Cohn (Albert Whitman & Company).
Source: http://www.familyeducation.com/ (search Hanukkah)
New Initiative To Focus On Israelis Living In St. Louis
St. Louis has welcomed a new shlicha from Israel through a new partnership between community organizations aiming to work with Israelis living in St. Louis and The Jewish Agency of Israel.
So far, the shlicha is enjoying her new surroundings.
“I have had not even one single day that I’m not invited to a family’s [home] — either Israeli or American — for dinner,” said Ela Bokobza, a native of Meitar in southern Israel.
But the 26-year-old is doing far more than breaking the ice at local tables. She’s also breaking new ground for shlichot. Her stay in St. Louis, funded mostly by a grant from the local Jewish Federation, is part of a new vision for the role, which translates roughly to emissary. Bokobza isn’t just bringing Israel to Americans but is also helping to bring the United States closer to Israelis living in this country.
“Most shlichim are generally focused on working with the American Jewish community and teaching them about Israel,” said Rabbi Brad Horwitz, director of the Helene Mirowitz Center of Jewish Community Life at the J. “Her mission is primarily going to be working with local Israelis living in St. Louis and trying to find ways to connect them to the Jewish community here.”
Bokobza’s position is set to last at least a year and she will work with the J and two other institutions – Bais Abraham Congregation and the local chapter of Tzofim, the Israeli Scouts organization.
Horwitz said that connecting local Israelis to American Jewish institutions is an important goal for the J but it hasn’t always had a high level of success. Bokobza is the first full-time staff member dedicated to that effort.
“Currently, we have Israelis who are engaged or belong to congregations or the J but we feel like there are a lot of others out there who are not,” Horwitz said. “Ela is someone who can work with them to connect them with the life of the Jewish community.”
Bokobza’s role is also unique for having that focus. She said that of the 300 shlichot from the Jewish Agency around the world, St. Louis is the only one she knows of where the job is primarily designed to connect local
Israelis to resources in their communities. It was a big part of the reason she chose the Gateway City.
“I was interested in doing a shlichot from the Jewish Agency because I believe that the Jewish world and the Jewish community in North America have a strong and supportive relationship with each other,” said the Bar-Ilan University graduate. “I believe that people want to be part of something which is bigger than themselves. The Jewish community and Israel can help each other to reach their goals.”
Bokobza, who has completed her service in the Israeli army, studied criminology in school and spent time helping at-risk youth in her homeland.
Horwitz said she was interviewed for the position with several other candidates via Skype. He noted that her personable nature, knowledge and passion made her the right person for the job.
“We’re always looking for opportunities to reach out to members of the Jewish community in new and interesting ways. The Israeli community is one that we’ve always tried to engage,” he said noting that Bokobza will also help out at next year’s J summer camp. “When this opportunity presented itself to do that in a more sophisticated and enriched way, we were really excited.”
The other participating organizations are happy about it, too. Ilanit Michelson, head of the St. Louis chapter of Tzofim, said Bokobza is already working with camp counselors for her Israeli Scouts organization where she has developed a strong rapport with everyone.
Rabbi Hyim Shafner said that Bokobza will be working with his congregation’s Sunday school, which is geared toward Israeli children living in the area. The rabbi noted that he first saw the potential for a shlicha when he witnessed interactions between students at the school and the shlichim family from Torah MiTzion.
“What I noticed over the last year was that the Israelis were very connected to the school but they weren’t connected to the synagogue as much,” Shafner said. “The Israeli parents said, ‘You know, we really need an Israeli who is working at the school helping us to create programming for Israelis to connect to the synagogue and Jewish life.’”
By David Baugher, Special to the Jewish Light Article was edited for space and reprinted with permission of the St. Louis Jewish Light
Ela Bokobza
Ela Bokobza (front row, far right) with the local chapter of Tzofim, the Israeli Scouts organization.
Ela (right) with Ilnait Michelson, volunteer leader of the local Tzofim chapter.
Discover MELT
Fitness and Rejuvenate
The J recently introduced the MELT Method as a new fitness alternative. MELTing helps relieve the effects of stress, rehydrates the body’s connective tissue and has a cumulative effect on reducing chronic pain. It is a proactive approach to maintaining a healthy, pain-free, active lifestyle. There are several opportunities for you to MELT at the J!
J members Saundra and Bill Peck experienced MELT and felt an immediate impact. “Thanks to you, [instructor] Robin [Bach], for your detailed explanations and expert instructions performed within our small “hands-on” training group; we are both experiencing a new-found awareness of our bodies. It is exciting to learn techniques that will rehydrate our connective tissues to help reduce pain, balance metabolism, and strengthen core and flexibility. It’s definitely a valuable class for us!” said the Pecks.
MELT utilizes a specialized foam roller and various sized treatment ball, which also vary in degree of rigidness. These primary tools, along with others, brings your body to a more ideal state by directly enhancing body awareness, rehydrating connective tissue, and decreasing stuck stress that accumulates from daily living. The first time you MELT, you can see and feel a difference – and over time, you can transform how your body looks and feels.
Meet the Trainer: Julie Vasalik
Offering a Hand Inspires Trainer
Chicago native Julie Vasalik moved to St. Louis in August 2013 and began at the J’s Fox Building a few months later. She saw the J as an excellent training facility that can meet the needs of its members and the community. It has allowed her to develop professionally, and create specialty programs (she’s beginning a Golf fitness program) and expand her knowledge. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from Eastern Illinois University and recently returned to Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO) for a Master’s degree focused on Dietetics.
Julie feels people need to “try to use personal training as an educational tool. They should build on [their] personal knowledge of health and wellness.” She continues, “The knowledge from training helps you set and achieve goals. It allows you to figure out what worked for you and what didn’t. Every person is unique in their own way.”
Prior to her training certification, Julie worked as an exercise specialist in a hospital fitness facility, which offered traditional personal training. She would onboard new clients who may be entering a fitness center for the first time. Often entering with a life altering diagnosis, Julie would introduce clients to fitness. Eventually, she got certified as a trainer, and was now equipped to further assist and educate her now-clients into the world of health and wellness.
Now at the J for over six months, Julie has settled in. She enjoys bringing along new clients and those rehabbing. She loves sharing her knowledge and is comfortable working with a variety clients seeking many different objectives (weight loss, strength training, rehab, etc.). She enjoys the challenge of preparing and planning a wellness map to help all of her clients achieve their goals.
For beginners, Julie simply states, “Start slow. Try a few things at a time. You shouldn’t overwhelm yourself with everything at once – that can lead to discouragement. And when in doubt, ask questions.”
The J offers Julie, and all trainers, a lot of options. “There is open space for functional training and intervals as well as an abundance of strength training equipment. The J has a lot of equipment to keep workouts fresh and new on a regular basis.”
When she’s away from the fitness center, Julie can be found playing volleyball or softball. She also reads to keep up on the latest in fitness and nutritional trends and studies.
If you would like to meet with a personal trainer or schedule a free fitness consultation, contact the fitness center at 314-442-3159 (Creve Coeur) or 314-442-3439 (Chesterfield).
Julie Vasalik
Thoughtful Actions = No Regrets
“Twenty years from now, you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the things you did.”
Mark Twain led an exemplary life indeed, which no doubt inspired him to share these words with the world so many years ago. This phrase bespeaks of a man who strove to die with no regrets. How satisfying it must be to have acted from a position of full engagement, refusing to back down in the face of uncertainty.
Without a doubt, each of us has had the experience of pondering an action, debating it within our hearts, sometimes reeling from the clash between mind and soul, only to back out in the eleventh hour. What is it, exactly, that gives us pause, causing us to arrest out potential development in some crucial way? Often we find ourselves operating from a position of fear, convincing ourselves that we are unprepared for the challenge that may lie ahead.
Now that the kids are back in school, I invite you to reflect upon your own past: take that trip down memory lane, and open your mind’s eye to all that you have accomplished. Ideally you will discover many events that fill you with a sense of joy, instill within you the confidence that you chose properly for the time and circumstances at hand. Now, pause once more as you reflect on those missed opportunities, and how choosing differently at those particular moments may have dramatically altered your life’s course. What do you see? What might you like to be seeing instead?
The quote above presented itself in my life three years ago, in a slide show presented by one of the many universities we were touring with our daughter. The quote was on the very first slide, and it grabbed my attention. What if Jillian doesn’t choose this university? Might she be disappointed twenty years from now? This of course is what the Admissions Dept. wanted us to take away from the session. In this particular instance, we will never know. I believe that young people tend to flourish wherever they are planted when it comes to quality institutions of higher learning, as is the case with our daughter, who attends a completely different campus from the one mentioned above. Still, I find myself pondering this notion often, especially when she experiences various challenges at her chosen university. What decisions had I made in my life that, twenty years hence, have left me disappointed? Can we somehow protect our children from this fate?
The truth of the matter is this: we may never know whether decisions we make and actions we take are indeed the best ones for us, or whether we will reflect on missed opportunities with disappointment years from now. One thing is true, however, and should be a steadfast rule in each of our lives, one worth passing down to the next generation: if we choose with our hearts and brains fully engaged, and perfectly entwined with each other, we are bound to lead lives rich in fulfillment, leaving us content and free of regrets.
By Cathleen Kronemer, NSCA-CPT, Certified Health Coach
cont. from pg. 12
“MELT has taught me how to get out of pain on my own through hand and food treatments. The first time I took a class I had a huge knot in my upper back, and the foot treatment got it out! I recently went on vacation where I was cramped up in the car. The treatments loosened, relaxed, and reenergized me,” says MELT participant Katie Feise.
The connective tissue is the flexible framework that stabilizes, connects, and separates all structures of the human body. It is what provides our body architectural stability. This tissue adapts to our posture and movements, which is both good and bad.
If your stability system is off, you may move inefficiently too. Your body simply adjusts to reserve energy. This means slower metabolism and increased weight gain, which slowly cause low grade inflammation. MELT will help your body sustain its ability to morph and adapt in a positive way.
For more information or to get involved in MELT Method classes, contact Malinda Walker at SFC at 314-442-3176 or mwalker@jccstl.org and Andy Hayes at Fox at 314-442-3147 or ahayes@jccstl.org
Some of this information was acquired from meltmethod.com
Cathleen Kronemer
continued from page 5
Consider MELTing into Fitness
The MELT Method looks to rehydrate the body’s connective tissue, assisting in reducing chronic pain using specialized foam rollers and various sized treatment balls. The first time you MELT, you can see and feel a difference – and over time, you will begin to transform how your body looks and feels. For more on the MELT Method, see page 12.
Consider the Possibilities
This is but a sampling of the buffet of fitness opportunities you can find at the J. Beyond what’s listed, try Reformer Pilates, Personal Training – individual or with a friend, Cycling, Aquatic fitness or one of more than 200 group exercise classes.
Challenge yourself to engage in at least three new fitness experiences each month through the end of January. You’ll find you’re capable of more than you imagined and your body will thank you for it. You may even make a new friend or two along the way! Schedules are available for all programs in the fitness centers at both J locations.
To get involved in the fitness programs listed and any of the many others available, contact the fitness center SFC: 314-442-3159 or Fox: 314-442-3439.
Get ready to Lighten Up in 2015
continued from page 5 and proponents of healthy meal plans, he found himself to be lacking on both fronts.
After much contemplation, along with serious discussions among friends and family, the decision was made to once again become a member of the J. Craig also decided that utilizing the fitness center would not be nearly as productive as hiring a professional to guide him on this path. Fearful of reinjuring his already tenuous back, Craig sought out the expertise of personal trainer Nancy Itzkowitz.
A client’s limitations are just as important as his goals when creating a successful workout program, and Nancy turned out to be a perfect fit for Craig’s needs. She carefully designed a plan to strengthen his core and increase cardio activity, while being mindful of protecting his back. Nancy found Craig to be very open-minded and success-oriented, always willing to try new ways of working his body. Soon, this previously inactive grandfather found himself at the gym five to six times every week!
Lighten Up, version 2015, is back for another exciting year and ready to motivate. Lighten Up is a four-person, eight-week team weight loss challenge. The Lighten Up Weight Loss Challenge kicks off on January 4, 2015. Registration begins December 1 with a minimal $40 participation fee.There will be weekly weigh-ins and body circumference measurements to hold you and your team accountable. Exclusive Lighten Up personal training and group specials will be available to keep you on the right track.
2014 participant Russ Cottle thrived in the team format. “Working as a team was the best part from my perspective. I travel a lot with work so it is difficult to always eat healthy and workout. Because I had this team commitment it helped me stay focused on the task at hand. Personally this is the best shape I have been in since college. Glad to participate. It was awesome.”
Get ready to change your life. Registration starts soon!
Craig’s goals at the onset of his training were, in his words, “quite simple.” Seeking overall well-being, including weight loss and core strength, Craig also strove to forge a strong exercise ethic and to make this a permanent lifestyle change. Under Nancy’s tutelage, with her compassionate ability to encourage, share knowledge and demonstrate an understanding of his needs, Craig now feels he has accomplished infinitely more than he had expected. After several months he has begun to see changes in his physique as well as his lifestyle, all while growing stronger and improving his endurance.
What lies on the horizon for this Success Story member? Craig hopes to cultivate a clearer understanding of the connection between exercise and healthy food choices. He also would like to reduce the need for blood pressure and cholesterol medication as he moves toward a place of better health. Having made the decision to continue his one-on-one work with his truly dedicated trainer, the possibilities are endless for this highly motivated and re-energized gentleman!
By Cathleen Kronemer, NSCA-CPT, Certified Health Coach
Personal Trainer Nancy Itzkowitz with J success story Craig Goldford
continued from page 5
“When Kay and I first sat down together, we discussed her short and long term fitness goals, as well as her rest and eating habits. We performed a variety of assessments, such as posture, strength and endurance, flexibility, body measurements and body mass.” Ryan said, “All the preliminary work helps get clients and trainers on the same page and lets us keep track of all the wonderful progress taking place.”
Kay began her journey, as she puts it, with very attainable goals. She wanted to just get to the gym three times a week for an hour and be able to perform 20 pushups. With her husband Jesse on board and making his own commitment, she easily met these goals. Her current fitness regimen is much more ambitious. She regularly makes it to the gym five or six days a week, usually with Jesse. Her activities may include kettlebell classes, swimming, cardio work, and of course weight training – either with Ryan, with Jesse or with workout partner Jessica Fout.
After nearly a year of sessions with Ryan solo, Kay and new friend Fout decided a little peer motivation might be a great way to continue. Thusly, earlier this year, Kay and Fout began semiprivate sessions with Ryan. The ladies were brought together by the J - developing their friendship through seeing each other frequently in the fitness center and even playing a session of rec volleyball on the same team.
“I met Kay not long after I joined the J.” remembers Fout. “My weekly workouts with them are a great checkpoint to stay on top of my fitness goals. Having Kay as a workout partner is great, she is inspiring and motivates me to push harder with each workout. We have built a great friendship that expands beyond the fitness center. “
Kay speaks highly of Ryan who keeps their workouts varied. Working out with Fout allows for a bit more creativity due to there being a pair of clients. A few of the non-traditional challenges, include sparring, running the stairwell in a variety of methods and even heading outside for an obstacle course workout.
“Kay always has such a great attitude towards her fitness program – even on the very few occasions she may not be having a good day. She’s is always positive about each and every challenge I present to her,” Ryan says. “From sports conditioning, power lifting and plyometrics to speed and agility, full body strength, or core and flexibility exercises – she rocks it!”
“Starting at the J has changed my life. Not only do I feel and look better, I’m more confident in all aspects of my life.”
“Joe keeps the training different and we have fun which is not something I expected, but makes it much easier to get to the gym. Overall, training with Joe has exceeded my expectations.” She has continued the practice when she trains individually as well. “I try to vary my workouts to keep them interesting, challenge myself and avoid injury.”
“I never thought I would enjoy weight training, but weighted squats and the bench press are two of my favorites. Joe is very good at pushing me past the limits I put on myself.”
Her husband Jesse has succeeded in his own right. He’s lost nearly 100 pounds since the couple joined and increased his muscle mass exponentially. Together they feed off each other’s drive for even more continued motivation.
This motivation and desire keep Kay ascending to new heights. Her accomplishments to date include dropping more than 50 pounds, 20 of which she shed since joining the J. She claims half-jokingly it would be even more, but Joe keeps adding (just the right amount of) muscle mass, so she’s okay with it. She has also dropped four dress sizes and is more confident in all aspects of her life. She has made new friends and looks and feels better than ever.
As for the future, Kay has no plans on stopping. She continues to goals, both long and short term, and you can her determination to meet them all. She’s looking forward to running her first 5K, and can’t wait participate in some of the local themed-runs, such as the Warrior Dash. She is also looking to overcome some challenges in the fitness center –including an unassisted pull up, squat 200 pounds and bench press 150 – don’t bet against her!
Kay and Jesse Stansberry
The J Welcomes the 2016 JCC Maccabi Games®
Back to St. Louis
The J has welcomed hundreds of teens as host of the JCC Maccabi Games® three times – 1993, 1996 and 2003. It has been announced that a fourth St. Louis version of the Games is coming - in 2016. Hundreds of athletes and coaches will descend on venues all over St. Louis, including a few events at the J, between July 31 – August 4, 2016.
Visit Milwaukee with St. Louis Maccabi in 2015
Team and Individual Delegation Tryouts in December
After a one year hiatus, a group of teens (ages 13-16) and volunteer coaches will head to Milwaukee next August for the 2015 Maccabi Games®. Nearly 70 athletes and 20 coaches will head north for competition, friendships and acts of Tikkun Olam (Repairing the World) and represent St. Louis from Sunday, August 2 – Friday, August 7.
Beginning in 1982, the JCC Maccabi Games have been offering teens the opportunity to connect with others from around the world. Athletes often come from Mexico, Canada, Brazil, Great Britain and as far away Israel. Connections take place beyond the field of competition as athletes are given time to bond during extra-curricular activities including hang time (exactly as it sounds), community service, housing with volunteer hosts and more.
“I am thrilled that we will be bringing the JCC Maccabi Games back to St. Louis,” said Lynn Wittels, president and CEO of the J.
The Games began in 1982 and have offered more than 100,000 Jewish teens a unique social, cultural, and life shaping experience. They serve a larger purpose than athletic competition, promoting community involvement, teamwork and Jewish pride.
“This will be an amazing experience for everyone. It takes hundreds of dedicated people working together to make the Games so exceptional.” says Fanchon Auman, St. Louis Games Director and Director of Sports, Recreation and Aquatics at the J.
In addition to St. Louis, Columbus, Ohio and Stanford, Conn. will serve as host cities in 2016. Wittels said she expects between 1,200 and 1,300 teenagers to compete in St. Louis. Competition during the Games is for teens, between the ages 13 to 16. Both team and will individual sports are available, and include basketball, flag football, soccer, lacrosse, softball, volleyball and baseball, bowling, tennis, track, competitive dance, golf and swimming.
The 2015 St. Louis Delegation tryout schedule is below. There is also a mandatory parents meeting to learn the ins and outs of becoming a participant. To be eligible, athletes must be Jewish teens between ages 13 and 16 by July 31, 2015.
All athletes must pre-register to tryout. You can find additional information and registration forms available to download at jccstl.com/maccabi. For questions, contact: Fanchon Auman, 314-442-3420, fauman@jccstl.org
2015 JCC Maccabi Sports Options
Boy’s and Girls’ Basketball Soccer
Coed Flag Football Baseball
Girls’ Volleyball
Inline Hockey
Tryout Information
Marilyn Fox Building (Chesterfield) Sunday, December 7, 2014
Additional tryouts may be scheduled as needed.
Tennis
Swimming
Competitive Dance Golf
Track and Field
Tryout Schedule*
4-5pm: Soccer & Girls’ Volleyball
5-6pm: Basketball, Dance & Swimming
6-7pm: Baseball & Flag Football
*Inline Hockey, Golf, Tennis and Track & Field
Teens and parents must pre-register and attend one of the informational meetings.
Informational Parent Meeting
Marilyn Fox Building (Chesterfield) Sunday, December 7, 2014 4:30-5:30pm
Basketball Offers Benefits Far Beyond Competition
Youth Basketball in 2014 at the J felt like a swishnothing but net! Beginning with practices in the fall of 2013 and the 2014 regular season, more than 1,100 youth basketball players took to the courts between J locations. As the Mac and Jeanette Brown Youth Basketball Program continues to flourish, it has also maintained its excellence. Players can get involved beginning at three years old all the way through high school. There is truly an opportunity for everyone to get in the game!
Sports, Recreation and Aquatics Associate Director
Natalie Lesko, who currently manages several of the leagues relishes the challenge of the continually expanding program. It’s great to welcome in the younger kids and watch them develop and grow and continue through the leagues,” she says. “I’ve developed several friendships with the volunteer coaches, who without them, the league wouldn’t be able to maintain such a high standard. The values we try to impart on the players and coaches make the league really stand out.”
Lesko is in large part responsible for the explosion of the High School League. Kids who may not make their own high school teams or who have other interests, but want to keep playing have discovered a niche – right here at the J. “Players from ninth through twelfth grade can keep playing with their friends in a fun and competitive atmosphere without the commitment of playing for their school.” Lesko continues, “We are able to group the high school teams by age and ability which makes for very good competitive balance and keeps teams coming back. It’s been great watching rivalries form and it should only get better.”
Leagues for smaller competitors are also in abundance as. Beginning at age three, kids are encouraged to take to the court to learn the basics, with their parents. Start Smart Basketball is a nationally accredited program designed to help children transition into training leagues and gauge their interest as they are exposed to the ins and outs of the game.
From the Start Smart program, players progress into Training Leagues, then the Mac and Jeanette Brown Youth Basketball Program, which are the Kindergarten-8th grade levels, and finally the previously mentioned High School League.
“Last winter we had more than 100 teams in the kindergarten through eighth grade leagues alone, which was an all-time high,” Lesko recalls. “The Mac and Jeanette Brown program really is second to none in the area. Coaches and players grow and flourish in our leagues over several years, not just in basketball, but more importantly in life. This includes everything from sportsmanship and teamwork to fitness and building friendships.”
To get involved in the best youth basketball program in the area, visit jccstl.org for more information or to register online.
5K & 10K Run and Kids’ Triathlon Highlight Labor Day
The J hosted the 37th Annual Labor Day Run on September 1 as close to 300 runners took to the streets for one of the toughest and hilliest 10K & 5K courses in the area. Upon completion, younger athletes took to the J’s Millstone Campus competing in the 8th Annual Kids’ Triathlon. More than 150 kids participated in the event – the largest of its kind in St. Louis.
Congratulations to all of the participants who did a fantastic job! Here’s a look at some of the top finishers.
Labor Day Run
Male 10K: Robert Friedman
Female 10K: Christine Williams-Mrotek
Male Masters (40+) 10K: Greg Krogen
Female Masters (40+) 10K: Debbie Kerber
Male 5K: Brent Petzoldt
Female 5K: Lynne Collins
Male Masters (40+) 5K: Thomas Huling
Female Masters (40+) 5K: Callaway Zuccarello
Kids’ Triathlon
Short Course
Male (ages 5-6): Michael Strong
Female (ages 5-6): Audrey Reis
Middle Course
Male (ages 7-10): Mason Mayer
Female (ages 7-10): Kendall Connors
Long Course
Male (ages 11-14): Caleb Siegel
Female (ages 11-14): Julia Bader
Special thanks to our sponsors: Logan College
Show Me Cables
Brown Smith and Wallace, LLC
Optimal Performing Center
Dynamic Vending
What is Jewish about Breast Cancer?
You may have read about Angelina Jolie’s preventive double mastectomy, but did you realize this news affects our Jewish community in more prevalent numbers than the general community? Today‘s geneticists have identified genetic markers for 19+ genetic diseases which are more common in the Jewish community. 1 in 40 Ashkenazi Jews carries a BRCA gene mutation, nearly 10 times the rate of the general population, making Jewish families significantly more susceptible to hereditary breast cancer and ovarian cancer. Women who carry mutations in BRCA1 or BRCA2 have up to an 80% risk of developing breast cancer and up to a 45% risk of developing ovarian cancer. Men can also carry and pass these gene mutations on to their family, and also have increased cancer risks.
In order to address this issue, Nishmah; The St. Louis Jewish Women’s Project has joined forces with Sharsheret, Hebrew for “chain,” a national not-for-profit organization supporting young women and their families, of all Jewish backgrounds, facing breast, ovarian and other related cancers.
Senior Programs Coordinator Joins Kitchen J Staff
The Kitchen J recently welcomed Terri Ferguson, BSW, as the new Coordinator for Senior Programs. Ferguson will coordinate and implement activities and events at the senior meal site located at Covenant Place. She will explore new opportunities to meet the needs of the senior adults as well as to evaluate and improve upon existing programming. She also has many years of experience working in the field of aging, most recently working with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. As a state worker, she worked as an investigator of abuse, neglect and financial exploitation of the elderly and the developmentally disabled.
“I joined the J with the intention of expanding the senior adult programming so that it resonants with the diversity of Covenant Place residents. I look forward to working with the various departments of the J in order to assess and provide services that the senior community will find both beneficial and relevant,” Ferguson says.
In St. Louis, the local Sharsheret Support is working to encourage the Jewish community to look at their family history of cancer and to be proactive about their health. Nishmah is thrilled to have hired Ann Fingerhood, BSN, RN, MHA as the new Sharsheret Supports Coordinator. Ann is a lifelong member of the J and brings valuable nursing expertise and business experience to her new position. She will help build awareness and offer support to survivors, women who have been diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer, as well as those that are at increased genetic risk.
Get Involved
Sharsheret Supports is seeking volunteer “ambassadors” to help us get the word out to congregations and organizations in the local St. Louis Jewish community so they can understand the increased hereditary risk for Ashkenazi Jews.
Other programs in planning stages include a monthly educational/support group which we hope to begin in January and creation of a buddy system to connect recently diagnosed women with other breast cancer survivors in the community. If you are interested in more information or to get involved, please contact Ann Fingerhood at 314-442-3266 or Sharsheretsupports@jccstl.org
Prior to her work with the Department of Health and Senior Services, Ferguson worked for 10 years doing Social Research for the University of Michigan and the Research Triangle Institute. She was responsible for running social studies for nine different research programs during this time. The studies ranged from working with the elderly, doing assessments with children all over the country (to determine what skills they would need in the future to be successful in all aspects of school) and working in prisons (to determine what types of services prisoners would need in order to be successful upon reentering society).
For information about senior meals and activities following dinner, contact Terri at tferguson@jccstl.org
Special after-dinner events at the Kitchen J Meal Site include live music, shown here with the Brothers Lazaroff and belly dancing.
Terri Ferguson
Adult Day Center Welcomes New Activities Director
Theresa (Terri) Mines recently joined the staff of the Adult Day Center at the J as new the Activity Director. A native of Creve Coeur, Terri received her B. S. in Recreation with an emphasis in Therapeutic Recreation from Central Missouri State University (Warrensburg). After an opportunity in the Kansas City area, she returned to St Louis for an internship and never left. She is a welcome addition to the J staff. Her many years of experience working in the field of geriatrics in the community will prove to be an invaluable asset for the Adult Day Center.
Early in her career, Terri was fortunate to work in a variety of health care settings. This includes St. John’s Mercy and St. Mary’s Medical Centers, Surrey Place, Villa Gesu with The School Sisters of Notre Dame, Delmar Gardens and Lutheran Senior Services. While working with the School Sisters of Notre Dame she observed and worked with participants of an Alzheimer’s research study. This revealed information that it is vital to stimulate one’s brain frequently – in other words, “If you don’t use it, you lose it.”
“Since the late 1980s I have established creative and innovative therapeutic recreation techniques to meet the needs of individuals with cognitive impairment,” she recalls. “Being a part of that study reinforced to me that there is great value in therapeutic recreation activities.”
Her experiences allowed her to begin collaborating with the St. Louis chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, including becoming part of their speaker’s bureau. She has often taken a lead role in informing and offering advice to many staff and family members on proper approaches and techniques in caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or a related dementia.
Her work with the Alzheimer’s Association also brought the J to her attention.
“The Alzheimer’s Association is where I learned the J had a well-respected Adult Day Center. I am pleased that I am now affiliated with such a high quality program. I look forward to working at the J.”
The staff and families of the Adult Day Center certainly look forward to working with Terri!
The Adult Day Center at the J provides a full day of structured activities, meals, nursing care and therapies for individuals who need these supports. For more information about the program, contact Anna Zelinske, Adult Day Center Director, at azelinske@jccstl.org
We gratefully acknowledge the ongoing involvement and support of our JCC 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
Terri Mines
Tributes
We gratefully acknowledge contributions to the JCC Tribute Funds. Tributes given as a memorial or to honor a loved one, special achievement, or occasion extend the generosity of the donor by supporting vital programs and services. Following are the contributions received between January 1, 2014 and September 30, 2014.
VISIT WWW.JCCSTL.ORG TO SEND A TRIBUTE ONLINE
ADULT DAY CENTER
In honor of Fredal “Fritzy” Cohen from: Mr. and Mrs. Mark Paradowski
In honor of the special birthday of Richard Baron from: Ms. Ellyn Rosenblum
In honor of the speedy recovery of Rabbi Howard Kaplansky from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels
In memory of Alvin Sachar from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels
CAMP SABRA CAPITAL CAMPAIGN
In memory of Don Mann from: Mr. and Mrs. Michael Stern
CAPITAL AND ENDOWMENT CAMPAIGN
In honor of Steve Rosenzweig receiving the JProStl Pillar Award from: Elliot Rosenzweig
D. SAMUEL & MILDRED WISE SENIOR ADULT TRANSPORTATION FUND
In memory of Hermia Steiner from: Mr. and Mrs. Ben Liepe from: Mr. and Mrs. John Shuchart from: Ms. Anne Shapiro
In memory of Newman “Butzie” Bernstein from: Mr. and Mrs. Jay Bowyer from: Mr. and Mrs. Steven Osman from: Ms. Anne Shapiro from: Ms. Ruth Lynford
FOX YOUTH SPORTS
In honor of the birth of Emmett James Horan from: Mr. and Mrs. Steven Rosenzweig
MEN’S HEALTH CLUB
In honor of the special birthday of Ronald Lending from: Mr. and Mrs. Sanford Spitzer
In honor of the speedy recovery of Larry Hartstein from: Mr. and Mrs. Marty Oberman
In memory of Dr. Albert Salit from: Mrs. Dorothy Reimer
In memory of Harold Kravin from: Mr. and Mrs. Marty Oberman from: Mrs. Shirley Weiss
In memory of Ronny Protzel from: Mr. and Mrs. Marty Oberman
MERLE & RICHARD LINKEMER
CAMP SABRA SCHOLARSHIP FUND
In honor of the speedy recovery of Ben and Gloria Gelber from: Mr. and Mrs. Richard Linkemer
In memory of Teddy Friedman from: Mr. and Mrs. Richard Linkemer
MICKEY ROSEN MEMORIAL
CAMP SABRA SCHOLARSHIP FUND
In honor of Neil Marglous being honored by the Jewish Light as an Unsung Hero from: Mr. and Mrs. Marty Oberman
In honor of the special birthday of Harvey Lehrer from: Mr. and Mrs. Marty Oberman from: Mr. and Mrs. Neil Marglous from: Mrs. Louise Rovak
In memory of Michael Aaron Worth from: Mr. and Mrs. Ted Kraizer
NISHMAH PROGRAM
In honor of Debbie Polinsky receiving the Emerging Leader Award from: Mr. and Mrs. Marty Oberman
In honor of the birth of Chana Lai’a Pearl from: Mr. and Mrs. William Livingston
In honor of the marriage of Ronit Sherwin and David Komerofsky from: Mr. and Mrs. Richard Lincoff
In memory of David Kipnis from: Mr. and Mrs. Paul Gallant from: Ms. Sara Winkelman
“As my parents planted for me before I was born, so we plant for our children.” -Talmud
In memory of the mother of Marcia Lisker from: Ms. Sara Winkelman
In memory of the mother of Shelley Dean from: Dr. Bruce S. Frank and Ms. Enid Weisberg-Frank from: Mr. and Mrs. Richard Wolkowitz from: Mr. and Mrs. William Livingston
NORMAN S. KARTY MEMORIAL FUND
In honor of the 18th Birthday of Taylor Mary Karty from: Mrs. Rochelle Karty
In honor of the birthday of Marcia Broddon from: Mrs. Rochelle Karty
In honor of the speedy recovery of Marie McCloskey from: Mrs. Rochelle Karty
ADULT SPORTS
In honor of Irving Londy’s induction into the St. Louis Jewish Sports Hall of Fame from: Ms. Joan Newman
THE MICHAEL H. STAENBERG FACILITIES FUND
In honor of the bat mitzvah of the daughter of Ted and Judy Isaacs from: Mr. and Mrs. Steven Rosenzweig
In honor of the Special Birthday of Michael Staenberg from: Mr. and Mrs. Ira Rosenberg
In memory of Mahlon Rubin from: Mr. and Mrs. Michael Staenberg
In memory of Mary Ryan from: Mr. and Mrs. Joshua Shimony
THE NANCY AND AL SIWAK FUND
In honor of the marriage of Matt & Emily and Michael & Stephanie from: Mr. and Mrs. Marty Oberman
THEATRE UNLIMITED
In memory of Carole Tribula from: Ms. Nira Asher-Geller
DAVID I. & CECILE ALTON EARLY CHILDHOOD SCHOLARSHIP FUND
In honor of the birth of Dylan Rose Olt from: Mr. and Mrs. Norman Selner
In memory of Sam Alton from: Mrs. Sheila Siegel
ESTHER B. & HENRY J. BARIS
CAMP SCHOLARSHIP FUND
In memory of Art Poger from: Mr. and Mrs. Keith Grosz
BESS & MAX BRODER J ASSOCIATES FUND
In honor of the 40th Wedding Anniversary of Larry and Bobbi Potashnick from: Mr. and Mrs. Peter Frank
MAC & JEANETTE BROWN
YOUTH SPORTS FUND
In honor of Grace’s Bat Mitzvah from: Mr. and Mrs. Gregory Siwak
In honor of Josh Horwitz receiving the Mac Brown Award from: Mr. and Mrs. Gregory Siwak
In honor of Sherri Frank Weintrop receiving the 2014 Kipnis-Wilson/Friedland Award from Lion of Judah from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown
In honor of Steve Rosenzweig receiving the JProStl Pillar Award from: Mr. and Mrs. Marty Oberman
In honor of the 50th Wedding Anniversary of Barb and Dan Bindler from: Mr. Mahlon Rubin
In honor of the Bar Mitzvah of Daniel Fredman from: Mr. and Mrs. Gregory Siwak
In honor of the Bar Mitzvah of Max Deutsch from: Mrs. Abbey Small
In honor of the Bat Mitzvah of Claire Gellman from: Mr. and Mrs. Gregory Siwak from: Mr. and Mrs. Marty Oberman
In honor of the birth of Dovid Silverman from: Mr. and Mrs. Marty Oberman
In honor of the birth of Drew Benjamin Bauer from: Mr. and Mrs. Marc Oberman
In honor of the birth of Vivienne Katherine Thorson from: Mr. and Mrs. Marc Oberman
In honor of the birthday of Harriet Lipnick from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown
In honor of the recovery of Rabbi Carnie Rose from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown
In honor of the special anniversary of Jan and Bob Hardcastle from: Mr. and Mrs. Sanford Pomerantz
In honor of the special birthday of Paul Parry from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown
In honor of the special birthday of Ruth Kessler from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown
In honor of the speedy recovery of Harvey Gerstein from: Mr. and Mrs. Marty Oberman
In honor of the speedy recovery of Marty Oberman from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels
In honor of the speedy recovery of Merle Silverstein from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown
In honor of the wedding of Emily and Phil Schneider from: Mr. and Mrs. Marty Oberman
In memory of Al Melman from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown
In memory of Alvin Sachar from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown
In memory of Anita Mallen from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown
In memory of Anne Feld Wolfson from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown
In memory of Bev Tober from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown
In memory of Bobbie Kohn from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown
In memory of Carolyn Jacobs from: Mr. and Mrs. Marty Oberman
In memory of Dan Bluestone from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown
In memory of David Sherman, Jr. from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown
In memory of Doris Jean Stern from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown
In memory of Estelle Ranger from: Mr. and Mrs. Marty Oberman
In memory of Harold Kravin from: Sanford and Brooke Ungar from: Mr. and Mrs. Marvin Rosengarten
In memory of Herman Gellman from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown
In memory of Ina Sachar from: Mr. and Mrs. Gregory Siwak
In memory of Irv Pernikoff from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown
In memory of Kenneth Kent from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown
In memory of Letty Lefkowitz from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown
In memory of Lois Schaeffer from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown
In memory of Mahlon Rubin from: Mr. and Mrs. Charles Eisenkramer from: Mr. and Mrs. David Halpern from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels from: Mr. and Mrs. Lee Platke from: Mr. and Mrs. Marty Oberman from: Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Abeles from: Mr. and Mrs. Sanford Pomerantz from: Mr. and Mrs. Steven Rosenzweig from: Mr. Oscar Goldberg from: Mrs. Evelyn Koshner
In memory of Mel Dunkelman from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown
In memory of Newman “Butzie” Bernstein from: Mr. and Mrs. Gerry Bertish from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown
In memory of Norman Katz from: Mr. and Mrs. Clifford Chelist
In memory of Norman London from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown
In memory of Richard Sher from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown
JAMES M. BUSCH CAMP FUND
In memory of Barry Tilson from: Ziman Realty Partners from: Dr. and Mrs. Steven Klayman from: Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Abeles from: Mr. and Mrs. Art Thompson from: Mr. and Mrs. Barry Golsen from: Mr. and Mrs. Doran Young from: Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Young from: Mr. and Mrs. Keith Rinehart from: Mr. and Mrs. Peter Kramer from: Mr. and Mrs. Phil Dean from: Mr. and Mrs. Richard Rosenfeld
from: Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Abeles from: Mr. and Mrs. Steve Stanley from: Mr. Josh Rinkov from: Mr. Walter Stern from: Mrs. Cindy Harper from: Mrs. Rosemary Cooper from: Ms. Blanche Young from: Ms. Carol Miller from: Ms. Diane Edwards from: Ms. Kimberly Levinson
CAMP SABRA SCHOLARSHIP FUND
In honor of Ilana and Goldie Krashin from: Mr. & Mrs. Eli M. Abeles
In honor of Ilana Libby Krashin from: Dr. and Mrs. David Berwald from: Mr. and Mrs. Ariel Stein
In honor of the 18th birthday of Jonah Elyachar from: Mr. and Mrs. Adam Elyachar
In honor of the Bar Mitzvah of Max Deutsch from: Mr. and Mrs. Alan Binder
In honor of the bat mitzvah of Bella Neuman from: Mr. and Mrs. Steven Rosenzweig
In memory of Anne Feld Wolfson from: Mr. and Mrs. Alan Ludmer from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels
In memory of Helen Gross from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels
In memory of Ilana Libby Krashin from: Mr. and Mrs. Alan Wolff from: Mr. and Mrs. Dale Steinback
In memory of Mahlon Rubin from: Mr. and Mrs. James Fernandez
In memory of Michael Aaron Worth from: Mr. and Mrs. Charles Cook from: Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Lang from: Mr. and Mrs. Lee Kline from: Mr. and Mrs. Marty Oberman from: Mr. and Mrs. R. Randal Aaranson from: Mrs. Deborah Hankin from: Mrs. Elyse Feinstein from: Mrs. Kristi Gallup from: Mrs. Lori Wishne from: Mrs. Rhonda Oberman from: Ms. Ann Fingerhood from: Ms. Nancy Matusofsky from: Ms. Susanna Garfein from: Rabbi Amy Feder
In memory of Teddy Friedman from: Mr. and Mrs. Jason Glazer from: Mr. and Mrs. Lee Mendelson
ZOLA CARP FUND FOR CHILDREN
In memory of Dr. Robert Cohen from: Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Carp STAENBERG EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER FUND
In honor of Michael Staenberg from: Ms. Cheryl Adelstein
In honor of the birth of Dylan Rose Olt from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels
In honor of the marriage of the son of Robin Levin from: Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Abeles
In honor of the new grandchild of Harvey Wallace and Madeleine Elkins from: Mr. and Mrs. Steven Rosenzweig
In memory of Edward Zaltsman from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels from: Mr. and Mrs. Steven Rosenzweig
In memory of Judy Goldman from: Mr. and Mrs. Terry Cohen
MARLYN ESSMAN CULTURAL ENRICHMENT PROGRAM FOR CHILDREN
In memory of Leonard Growe from: Mr. and Mrs. Alyn Essman
SHELLY FISHER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND
In honor of the special birthday of Rita Levis from: Mrs. Beverly Tober from: Mrs. Sue Fisher
In memory of Greg Eveloff from: Mrs. Sue Fisher
In memory of Mel Dunkelman from: Mrs. Sue Fisher
In memory of Morty Bearman from: Mrs. Sue Fisher from: Mrs. Wendy Oteham
In memory of Ralph Lowenbaum, III from: Mrs. Wendy Oteham
In memory of Sy Bailis from: Mrs. Sue Fisher
THE FITNESS CENTER
In memory of Mary Ryan from: Mr. David Lotsoff
In memory of the grandmother of James Pedersen from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels
SAM & MARILYN FOX AND EDWIN & LENORE
PEPPER FRIENDSHIP SCHOLARSHIP FUND
In honor of Chris Chadwick and her successful career as leader of Focus from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In honor of Diane Sullivan and Brown Shoe Company’s 100th Anniversary on the New York Stock Exchange from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In honor of Judy Kramer receiving the Hadassah Leadership Award from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In honor of Lenore Pepper from: Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Abeles
In honor of Lenore Pepper receiving the Hatebreakers Heroes Award from: Mr. and Mrs. Marty Oberman
In honor of Marilyn and Sam Fox from: Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Pepper
In honor of Marilyn Fox receiving the Community Leader Lifetime Achievement Award from NCCJ from: Mr. and Mrs. Jerome Kraus from: Mr. and Mrs. Marty Oberman
In honor of Sherri Frank Weintrop receiving the 2014 Kipnis-Wilson/Friedland Award from Lion of Judah from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In honor of the 50th Wedding Anniversary of Dr. Sally and Dr. Bennett Shaywitz from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In honor of the 90th birthday of Judge William Webster from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In honor of the birth of Samuell de Potter from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In honor of the return to good health of Jean Cavender from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In honor of the special birthday of Lenore Pepper from: Ms. Ilene Osherow
In honor of the special birthday of Marilyn Fox from: Mr. and Mrs. Michael Staenberg from: Dr. and Mrs. Robert Lefton from: Dr. and Mrs. William Friedman from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown from: Mr. and Mrs. Jay Henges from: Mr. and Mrs. Jerome Kraus from: Mr. and Mrs. Julian Seeherman from: Mr. and Mrs. Mark Kodner from: Mr. and Mrs. Marty Oberman from: Mr. and Mrs. Michael Newmark from: Mr. and Mrs. Paul Gallant from: Mr. and Mrs. Sandor Korein from: Mr. Oscar Goldberg from: Mr. Roy Pfautch from: Ms. Marylen Mann from: The Honorable John C. Danforth and Mrs. Sally Danforth
In honor of the special birthday of Sam Fox from: Mr. and Mrs. Marty Oberman
In honor of the speedy recovery of Bill Coad from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In honor of the speedy recovery of Ellen Safran from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In honor of the speedy recovery of Murray Weidenbaum from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In honor of the speedy recovery of Norman Holmes from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In honor of the speedy recovery of Sidney Dickstein from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In honor of Tim Danis and the launching of Risk Consulting Partners from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In honor of Wendy Rosenblum from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In memory of Al Melman from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In memory of Art Poger from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In memory of Bill Cornelius from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In memory of Brenda Skinner from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In memory of D.J. Fischer from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In memory of David Sherman, Jr. from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In memory of Dr. Saul Silvermintz from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In memory of George Weber III from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In memory of Henry Alexander Fernandez from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In memory of Jim Burkemper from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In memory of Jody Diane Seigel Miller from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In memory of Lionel Kaiser from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In memory of Lucille Bommarito from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In memory of Marilyn Beck from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In memory of Mary Warner Mack from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In memory of Melvyn Estrin from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In memory of Milton Levin from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In memory of Myrtle Spirtas from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In memory of Pat MacVeagh from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In memory of Robert A. Evens from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In memory of Robert Stupp from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In memory of Sherri Druck from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In memory of Sidney Dickstein from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox from: Mr. Oscar Goldberg
In memory of the brother of Antoinette Dieleman from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In memory of the father of Elisheva Heit from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In memory of the father of Hubert Wewer from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox
In memory of Walter G. Stern from: Ambassador and Mrs. Sam Fox from: Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Fox
MILTON FRANK CAMP OF THE ARTS FUND
In honor of the birth of Samantha Allison from: Mr. and Mrs. John Morrison
In memory of David Frank from: Mr. and Mrs. Marc Flanders
In memory of Marc Rainen from: Mr. and Mrs. John Morrison
GROSSMAN IRON & STEEL COMPANY MEYER A. GOLDER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND
In honor of Lenore Pepper receiving the Hatebreakers Heroes Award from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler
In honor of the 50th Wedding Anniversary of Barb and Dan Bindler from: Dr. and Mrs. Edward Cohen from: Dr. and Mrs. Robert Maisel from: Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Glazier from: Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Pepper from: Mr. and Mrs. Gary Lazaroff from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Brown from: Mr. and Mrs. James Fogle from: Mr. and Mrs. James Hirschfield from: Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Rubin from: Mr. and Mrs. Mark Temkin from: Mr. and Mrs. Martin Feit
from: Mr. and Mrs. Sanford Pomerantz from: Mrs. Susan Knopf
In honor of the Bar Mitzvah of Eric Yalowitz, grandson of Larry and Liz Linkon from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler
In honor of the Bat Mitzvah of Blair Dubinsky from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler
In honor of the birthday of Marcia Broddon from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler
In honor of the recovery of Audrey Gershenson from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler
In honor of the recovery of Rabbi Carnie Rose from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler
In honor of the special birthday of Barbara Sarbach from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler
In honor of the special birthday of David Boxer from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler
In honor of the special birthday of Marilyn Fox from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler
In honor of the special birthday of Sandy MacLean from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler
In honor of the speedy recovery of Dr. Chuck Mannis from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler
In honor of the speedy recovery of Gayle Bassin from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler
In honor of the speedy recovery of Merle Silverstein from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler
In honor of the speedy recovery of Stan Dveris from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler
In honor of the speedy recovery of Stuart Zimmerman from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler
In memory of Anita Mallen from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler
In memory of Carol Winston from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler
In memory of David Frank from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler
In memory of Dr. Martin Bergmann from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler
In memory of Dr. Robert Cohen from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler
In memory of Estelle Ranger from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler
In memory of Frieda Handelman from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler
In memory of Greg Eveloff from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler
In memory of Ina Sachar from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler
In memory of Mahlon Rubin from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler
In memory of Martin Goldberg from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler
In memory of Teddy Friedman from: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Bindler
SCOTT & BRUCE GOLDSTEIN
CAMP SABRA SCHOLARSHIP FUND
In honor of the birthday of Irv Goldstein from: Mr. and Mrs. Michael Goldstein
In honor of the speedy recovery of Pat Hartz from: Mr. Irving Goldstein
In memory of Bernard Barken from: Lohr Distributing Company from: PC Logistics, Inc. from: Buckingham Asset Management LLC from: Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Bay from: Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Adreon from: Mr. and Mrs. Michael Goldstein from: Mr. and Mrs. Phil Bolian from: Mr. Irvin Davis from: Mr. Irving Goldstein from: Mr. Julian Mathes from: Mrs. Margery Goldberg from: Ms. Alice Goodman from: Ms. Betsy Mehlman from: Ms. Constance Lohr from: Ms. Laura Staley and Mr. Steven Goldstein
In memory of Bev Tober from: Mr. Irving Goldstein
In memory of Connie Fry from: Mr. and Mrs. Sanford Spitzer from: Mr. and Mrs. Steve Mathes from: Mr. Irving Goldstein from: Mr. Julian Mathes from: Mrs. Bettie Gershman from: Mrs. Betty Spitzer from: Ms. Alice Goodman from: Ms. Joyce Miceli
In memory of Jim Goodman from: Ms. Suzanne Lasky
In memory of Simon Toder from: Dr. and Mrs. Harvey Glazer
In memory of Stanley Schwartz from: Mr. Irving Goldstein
RUTH & GUS GORNEK HEALTH CLUB FUND
In memory of the mother and mother-in-law of Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Winkel from: Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Musen
FAYE & JOHN GREENBERG GARDEN FUND
In honor of Maureen and Bob Greenberg from: Mr. and Mrs. Richard Linkemer
BRUCE & TODD HARRIS MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND
In memory of Irv Pernikoff from: Mr. and Mrs. Richard Harris
In memory of Joe Lurie from: Mr. and Mrs. Richard Harris
In memory of Todd Harris from: Mr. and Mrs. Richard Mariam
SIDNEY HOLTZMAN CAMP SABRA SCHOLARSHIP FUND
In memory of Bev Tober from: Mr. and Mrs. Troy Pohlman
In memory of Herb Greenberg from: Mr. and Mrs. Troy Pohlman
In memory of Ina Rainey from: Mr. and Mrs. Troy Pohlman
In memory of Jim Goodman from: Mr. and Mrs. Troy Pohlman
In memory of Kenneth Kent from: Mr. and Mrs. Troy Pohlman
In memory of Rob Harris from: Mr. and Mrs. Troy Pohlman
In memory of Ronnie Iken from: Mr. and Mrs. Troy Pohlman
In memory of Semon Frelich from: Ms. Nanette Holtzman
In memory of Sylvia Holtzman from: Mr. and Mrs. Troy Pohlman
In memory of Walter G. Stern from: Mr. and Mrs. Troy Pohlman
J ASSOCIATES
In honor of Jill Mannis chairing the J Associates Dancing in the Loop from: Dr. and Mrs. Charles Mannis
In honor of Lenore Pepper receiving the Woman of Worth 2013 Lifetime Achievement Award from: Ms. Marylen Mann
In honor of Diane Katzman competing in Dancing in the Loop from: Mr. and Mrs. Michael Staenberg
In honor of Larry Samuels competiting in Dancing in the Loop from: Mr. and Mrs. Michael Staenberg
In honor of Lenore Pepper winning Dancing in the Loop from: Mr. and Mrs. Michael Staenberg
In honor of Lorraine Robin becoming a Mitzvah Star from: Mr. and Mrs. Robert M. Mielziner from: Ms. Lauren Mielziner
In honor of Mark Cantor competiting in Dancing in the Loop from: Mr. and Mrs. Michael Staenberg
In honor of Ronnie Light competiting in Dancing in the Loop from: Mr. and Mrs. Michael Staenberg
In memory of Estelle Ranger from: Ms. Nancy Siteman
JEWISH BOOK FESTIVAL FUND
In honor of Judi Scissors receiving the Richard S. Weiss Presidents’ Award from: Mr. and Mrs. Marty Oberman
In memory of Rosalee Askuvich from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels
MARTIN KODNER JCC
MACCABI SPORTSMANSHIP
AWARD ENDOWMENT FUND
In honor of the birth of Brooklyn Elle Fuller from: Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Ruben
In honor of the special birthday of Debbie Kaminer from: Mr. and Mrs. Mark Kodner
In honor of the special birthday of Dr. David Katzman
from: Mr. and Mrs. Mark Kodner
In honor of the special birthday of Gianna Jacobson from: Mr. and Mrs. Mark Kodner
In memory of Bev Tober from: Mr. and Mrs. Mark Kodner
In memory of Eleanor Foster from: Gallery of the Masters, Inc.
In memory of Estelle Ranger from: Mr. and Mrs. Mark Kodner
In memory of Kathryne Sheldon from: Gallery of the Masters, Inc.
In memory of Leonard Growe from: Mr. and Mrs. Mark Kodner
In memory of Lionel Kaiser from: Mr. and Mrs. Mark Kodner
In memory of Mahlon Rubin from: Mr. and Mrs. Mark Kodner
In memory of Melvin Mednikow from: Gallery of the Masters, Inc.
In memory of Morty Bearman from: Mr. and Mrs. Mark Kodner
In memory of Walter G. Stern from: Gallery of the Masters, Inc. from: Mr. and Mrs. Mark Kodner
BERNARD & MYRTLE KORNBLUM FUND
In honor of Marcia Evers Levy from: Mrs. Carole A. Simon
In memory of Alvin Sachar from: Mrs. Carole A. Simon
In memory of Betty Roth and David Frank from: Mrs. Carole A. Simon
In memory of Elaine Koplar from: Mrs. Carole A. Simon
In memory of Linda Skrainka from: Mrs. Carole A. Simon
In memory of Myrtle Spirtas from: Mrs. Carole A. Simon
In memory of Ronnie Iken from: Mrs. Carole A. Simon
SIDNEY KRAMER MEMORIAL
SENIOR ADULT FUND
In honor of the special birthday of Morton Miller from: Mrs. Norma Neff
JOY & FRED LEVIN DAY CARE FUND
In honor of Marilyn Lipman from: Dr. and Mrs. Fred Levin
In honor of the birthday of Nadine Wallenstein from: Dr. and Mrs. Fred Levin
In memory of Marian Lipschultz from: Dr. and Mrs. Fred Levin
In memory of Patty, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Grosberg from: Dr. and Mrs. Fred Levin
THE LEVITT FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP FUND
In memory of Barbara Katz from: Mr. Jack Levitt
In memory of Laurence Spungen from: Mr. and Mrs. Michael Levitt
DR. HERBERT A. MAZUR CHILDREN’S FUND
In honor of the special birthday of Elaine Kaufman from: Mrs. Naomi Silvermintz
In honor of the special birthday of Lillian Hendin from: Mrs. Naomi Silvermintz
In honor of the speedy recovery of Bert Talcoff from: Mrs. Naomi Silvermintz
In honor of the speedy recovery of Dr. Marvin Levin from: Mrs. Naomi Silvermintz
In honor of the speedy recovery of Dr. Morris Joftus from: Mrs. Naomi Silvermintz
In honor of the Wedding Anniversary of Dr. and Mrs. Robert Kausman from: Mrs. Naomi Silvermintz
In memory of Dr. Martin Bergmann from: Mrs. Naomi Silvermintz
In memory of Dr. Saul Silvermintz from: Mrs. Rona Witkoff
In memory of Leonard Growe from: Mrs. Naomi Silvermintz
In memory of Myrtle Spirtas from: Mrs. Naomi Silvermintz
In memory of Ruth Hendin from: Mrs. Naomi Silvermintz
WILMA & ROSWELL MESSING, JR., CULTURAL ARTS AND EDUCATION PROGRAM FUND
In honor of the birthday of Zelda Sparks from: Mrs. Audrey Berns
In memory of David Sherman, Jr. from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels
In memory of Dolly Sitzer from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels
In memory of Myrtle Spirtas from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels
HELENE MIROWITZ CENTER OF JEWISH COMMUNITY LIFE
In honor of the 100th Birthday of Ethel Schwartz from: Mr. Alan B. Raymond and Ms. Myra S. Rosenthal
In honor of the marriage of the grandson of Helene Mirowitz from: Mrs. Dorothy Maer
In honor of the speedy recovery of Charles Eisenkramer from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels
In memory of Art Poger from: Mr. and Mrs. Paul Gallant
In memory of Bobbie Kohn from: Mr. and Mrs. Paul Gallant from: Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Abeles
In memory of Dan Bluestone from: Mr. and Mrs. Paul Gallant
In memory of the brother of Del Goldenhersh from: Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Abeles
In memory of the grandmother of Rabbi Brad Horwitz from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels
In memory of the mother of Karen Berry Elbert from: Mr. and Mrs. Gary Growe
RADINE MOTCHAN BBYO
MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND
In memory of Letty Lefkowitz from: Mr. and Mrs. Steve Schwartz
GERTRUDE NEUMAN DAY CARE FUND
In memory of Kenneth Kent from: Mr. and Mrs. Irvin Roselman
In memory of Lee J. Ladinsky from: Mr. and Mrs. Irvin Roselman from: Mr. and Mrs. Marc Alper
In memory of Mr. and Mrs. Simon Kohn from: Mr. and Mrs. Irvin Roselman
In memory of the mother of Marie Koffman from: Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Spears
NEW JEWISH THEATRE
In memory of Judy Goldman from: Mr. and Mrs. William Sitzer
SOL PLATTNER CHESS PROGRAM FUND
In honor of the 45th Wedding Anniversary of Maury and Roberta Goldfeder from: Mr. and Mrs. Henry Schneider
In honor of the special birthday of Linda Yatkeman from: Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Auger from: Mr. and Mrs. Henry Schneider from: Mr. and Mrs. Larry Poger from: Mr. and Mrs. Larry Trochtenberg from: Mr. and Mrs. Robert Platzer from: Mrs. Arlene Caplan from: Mrs. Carla Weintraub from: Mrs. Martha Reichman from: Mrs. Nancy Bernstein from: Mrs. Rochelle Popkin from: Mrs. Sharon Barnholtz from: Mrs. Suzie Fuchs from: Ms. Joan Siwak from: Ms. Marcia King from: Ms. Marilyn Reznik from: Ms. Roberta Johnson
In memory of Arthur Guller from: Mr. and Mrs. Henry Schneider
In memory of Ralph Kalish from: Mr. and Mrs. Henry Schneider
MORRIS & BIRDIE POTASHNICK
CAMP SABRA SCHOLARSHIP FUND
In honor of Marshall Lerman receiving his medical degree from: Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Katzif
In honor of the 50th Birthday of Doug Schukar from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Potashnick
In honor of the birth of twin grandsons
Alek and Asher to Mr. and Mrs. Jack Heller from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Potashnick
HARRY S. QUICKSILVER FUND
In honor of the birthday of Betty Schneider from: Mrs. Bernice Mange
In honor of the birthday of Jane Griffith from: Mrs. Bernice Mange
RHODA & AL RABEN CAMP
SABRA SCHOLARSHIP FUND
In memory of Edwin Foster from: Ms. Nancy Raben Allen
In memory of Hinda Stone from: Ms. Nancy Raben Allen
MAURICE RICH YOUTH
MACCABI SCHOLARSHIP FUND
In honor of Stuart and Marie Block from: Mr. and Mrs. Barry Gross
In memory of Ben Bronson from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels
In memory of Estelle Ranger from: Mr. and Mrs. Barry Gross
In memory of Leonard Growe from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels
JACOB & FRIEDA SANDWEISS JUDAICA FUND
In memory of Flossie Biernbaum from: Mr. Stanley Sandweiss
ADULT SERVICES AND NUTRITION DEPARTMENT
In honor of Sandy Jaffe being honored as an Unsung Hero by the Jewish Light from: Mr. and Mrs. Marty Oberman
In honor of the 95th birthday of Manny Finkelstein from: Mr. and Mrs. Barry Krell
In memory of Jerome Lewin from: Mrs. Susan Perez and Mrs. Joyce Weinstein
ADULT SERVICES NUTRTION PROGRAM
In honor of Alice Ludmer from: Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Abeles
In memory of Manny Finkelstein from: Mr. and Mrs. Barry Krell
SENIOR OLYMPICS FUND
In memory of Jerry Legow from: Mr. and Mrs. Edward Chod
MOLLIE SHER DAY CAMP
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
In honor of Cameron Anthony Koester’s graduation from high school from: Mr. Sheldon Landau
In memory of Anne Feld Wolfson from: Mr. Steve Skutch
In memory of Richard Sher from: Brian Heath Teper Charitable Trust from: Dr. and Mrs. Gary Ratkin from: Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Hortmann from: Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Abeles from: Mr. and Mrs. Barry Chod from: Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Brown from: Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Edwards from: Mr. and Mrs. David Sentnor from: Mr. and Mrs. Edward Chod from: Mr. and Mrs. Frank Keller from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Fine from: Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Hieken from: Mr. and Mrs. Jerrold Comensky from: Mr. and Mrs. Joel Allen from: Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Clifford from: Mr. and Mrs. Larry Buffen from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Amitin from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Deutsch from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels from: Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Frankel from: Mr. and Mrs. Marty Oberman from: Mr. and Mrs. Marvin Rosengarten from: Mr. and Mrs. Max Shapiro from: Mr. and Mrs. Neal Neuman from: Mr. and Mrs. Norman Davis from: Mr. and Mrs. Norman Shore from: Mr. and Mrs. Philip Mendlow from: Mr. and Mrs. Richard Aurbach from: Mr. and Mrs. Robert Cohen from: Mr. and Mrs. Robert Radinsky from: Mr. and Mrs. Stan Shanker from: Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Glickman from: Mr. and Mrs. William Becker from: Mr. and Ms. Jeffrey Kopolow from: Mr. Phil Sher and Ms. Judy R. Rustige-Sher from: Mr. Sheldon Landau
from: Mrs. Joy Sterneck
from: Mrs. Michele Sher
from: Mrs. Susan Bosse from: Ms. Carol Faintich
from: Ms. Charlotte Rosenblum from: Ms. Jillian Goldfarb from: Ms. Lauren Haberman from: Ms. Leona Klayman from: Ms. Marjorie Gold from: Ms. Victoria Crouppen
EARL & JAYNE SILVER SCHOLARSHIP FUND
In memory of the mother and mother-in-law of Julie and Donald Turken from: Mr. and Mrs. Lenny Kohn
HAROLD SPIEGELGLASS CAMP
SHALOM SCHOLARSHIP FUND
In honor of the 50th Wedding Anniversary of Barb and Dan Bindler from: Mr. and Mrs. Melford Spiegelglass
In honor of the 50th Wedding Anniversary of Lyndon and Alix Marin from: Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Glazier
In honor of the Bat Mitzvah of Blair Dubinsky from: Mr. and Mrs. Sanford Pomerantz
In honor of the special birthday of Norman Hausfater from: Mr. and Mrs. Melford Spiegelglass
In memory of Art Poger from: Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Glazier
SPORTS, RECREATION & AQUATICS DEPARTMENT
In memory of Lionel Kaiser from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels from: Mr. and Mrs. Steven Rosenzweig
THE AL & CHARLOTTE TAMSKY VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION FUND
In memory of Stanley and Estelle Hoffman from: Mr. and Mrs. Maurice Tamsky from: Mr. and Mrs. Morgan Tamsky from: Mr. and Ms. Leonard Tamsky from: Mrs. Arleen Bernstein
JCC TRIBUTE FUND
In honor of Judi Scissors receiving the Richard S. Weiss Presidents’ Award from: Mr. and Mrs. Steven Rosenzweig
In honor of the birth of Zoe Ann Beigle from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels
In honor of The Kid’s Triathalon from: Mr. John McCarthy
In honor of the speedy recovery of Earl Salsman from: Mr. and Mrs. David Shoub
In honor of the speedy recovery of Harvey Gerstein from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels
In honor of the speedy recovery of Marvin Wool from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels
In honor of the speedy recovery of Mike Ferman from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels
In memory of Arthur Guller from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels
In memory of Barbara Katz from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels
In memory of Bob Recht from: Mr. and Mrs. Reuben Goodman
In memory of Dr. Albert Salit from: Mr. and Mrs. Scott Kranzberg from: Mrs. Evie Wood
In memory of Frieda Handelman from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels from: Mr. and Mrs. Steven Rosenzweig
In memory of Harold Kravin from: Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Rubinstein
In memory of Lionel Kaiser from: Midwest Business Appraisal, Inc.
In memory of Ralph Lowenbaum, III from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels
In memory of the father and brother of Charla Hutkins from: Mr. and Mrs. Robert Hutkins
In memory of the father of Mona Green from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels
In memory of the grandfather of Ann Kolodner from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels
In memory of the uncle of Eli Abeles from: Mr. and Mrs. Steven Rosenzweig
In memory of Theodore Smith from: Mr. Matthew Sturm
In memory of Walter G. Stern from: Mr. and Mrs. Charles Eisenkramer from: Mr. and Mrs. Jesse Myer III from: Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Wittels from: Mr. Stephen Loeb and Mrs. Rochelle Weiss from: Mrs. Elizabeth Freeman
Solar Panel Installations Add to J’s “Array” of Sustainability Efforts
It was always part of the plan for the Staenberg Family Complex to incorporate “green” or sustainable products and practices during its construction and in all aspects of its operation. From our water-efficient landscaping to the water-conserving sink and toilet fixtures, from the biodegradable food paper products to our robust paper/plastic/glass recycling program, from energy-efficient lighting to the energy saving sensors in nearly every space at the J, care for our environment and resources are top of mind.
Recently, we added to our list of sustainable practices by installing three, 25kw solar arrays – two at the SFC and one at the Fox Building. Solar electric systems are a good investment financially, but are equally appealing from an environmental perspective:
CO2 emissions avoided in one year: 171,912 pounds*
CO2 emissions avoided in a lifetime: 4,020,096 pounds
Equivalent of miles NOT driven in one year: 3,750,000
Equivalent to trees planted: 279 ACRES
*It helps to think of CO2 as gas trapped inside a balloon. Filling a balloon with one pound of CO2 would swell the balloon to about the size of one of those rubber exercise balls that have become so popular lately. The balloon would be about two and a half feet across. You could hug it, but it wouldn’t make you healthier.
Each day the average American fills up about 57 of these balloons. Now imagine all of those balloons rising up every day from 310 million Americans. You can see how, day after day, year after year, they’d fill up the sky. Source: National Resource Defense Council.
• Signature Specialty Fitness
• J-Fit Fitness Programs
• Playgroups & Open Play
• BBYO for teens
• Adult Day Center at the J
• Early Childhood Center
• Swim Academy
• 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
