Message From Alan and Michael
ALAN SEMEL, BOARD CHAIR • MICHAEL HYMAN, PRESIDENT & CEO
We are awed and inspired by the reach and impact the Mandel JCC has on our community. Every day we see, first-hand, how The J is making a difference in the lives of those we serve.
So many in our community have a story to share about how The J has helped to shape their children’s development, strengthened their families, improved their health, assisted their aging parents and enriched their lives. From preschool to pickle ball, basketball to book festivals, and camps to congregate senior lunches, we are connecting with more people and in more ways than ever before. As evidence, our membership has grown to a record 11,750 members and our programs and services touched an additional 10,000 community members throughout the year.
Through our acclaimed programs such as, Early Childhood, J-Day Camps and Camp Wise overnight camp, Fitness and Aquatics and Jewish Arts and Culture,
The J strengthens individuals and families of all ages and generations. And in doing so, we strengthen our entire community.
Following are just a few highlights of this past year:
• Gordon Safran and Mindy Safran Davidson, this year’s J-Champions, were honored for their contributions at Play at The J, our annual fundraiser. The event attracted larger crowds, greater sponsorship support and raised $125,000 to help support The J’s Financial Assistance Program. (To see the video tribute to Gordon and Mindy visit mandeljcc.org/play).
• Provided $400,609 in financial aid to more than 543 individuals and families to help defray the costs of J-Day Camps, Camp Wise and membership.
• Enjoyed record breaking attendance of 8,000 at our two signature arts and culture events: Cleveland Jewish FilmFest (see page 11), and Cleveland Jewish Book Festival. The FilmFest, celebrated its tenth successful year, and, thanks to a generous
challenge grant, surpassed fundraising goals. Our beloved Book Festival brought an incredible lineup of authors to our city and welcomed home Cleveland native and Academy, Tony and Golden Globe Awards winner, Joel Grey, as our headline presenter.
• Celebrated The J’s Indoor Triathlon and Biathlon’s tenth sold out year, and attracted 140 serious and casual athletes for a spirited day of sportsmanship, friendly competition and fundraising –the event raised $40,000.
• Nurtured 200 young children as they gained confidence, learned new skills, made new friends and celebrated Jewish holidays as part of our Early Childhood and Tot Shabbat programs (see pages 5 & 9). Sing into Spring, our annual Early Childhood event, raised $12,000 to be used for Early Childhood staff development. Joan Morgenstern, our much-admired Early Childhood Director, is stepping down from her position but
will continue to consult and work with our families and staff to assure a smooth transition as we engage in a national search for her replacement.
• Provided 240 seniors daily opportunities to be engaged and to share laughter and memories over a healthy meal at Lunch Plus, our congregate meal program. Housed at Warrensville Community Apartments in Cleveland Heights, we served over 12,000 hot kosher lunches six days a week and provided fitness classes, lectures, health screenings and Bingo (see page 15).
• The J’s Aquatics and Fitness staff helped 1,375 kids and adults learn to swim and improve their stroke and 800 individuals reach their fitness goals with the guidance of one of our talented certified personal trainers. Attendance in our 80 weekly group fitness classes grew and averaged 7,000 attendees per month.
• Playmakers Youth Theatre continued to bring Broadway’s favorite musicals to the Fairmount Temple stage. Nearly 200 student actors performed in four productions to appreciative audiences.
• Provided more than 1,300 kids, ages 2 to grade 11, an amazing summer as they took part in one of our outstanding Playland camp, J-Day Camps and Camp Wise Jewish overnight camp. Camp Wise’s new high ropes course addition and J-Day Camps new Travel, Adventure and specialty camps will ensure that all of our campers have a summer to remember (see pages 9 & 13).
• Kvelled as our Cleveland delegation of 48 Jewish teens competed and won 50 medals at the national JCC Maccabi Games, held in Columbus, this past July. This Olympic-inspired competition attracts over 500 Jewish athletes from all over the world.
• Provided the framework for 12 local Jewish fellows to study the theme of Outside, Inside: Exploring Boundaries using Torah, text study and discussion all as part of the Cleveland Jewish Arts and Culture Lab fellowship. Their artistic and unique mixed media works were showcased in The J’s lobby during a month-long exhibit in May.
Every year presents unexpected challenges and that was particularly true this year. The J, along with more than 150 JCCs across the country, faced an unprecedented series of bomb threats. After three difficult months, a suspect was arrested and the threats ceased. Throughout this period our operations continued as usual and our entire staff responded superbly while continuing to professionally and calmly serve and reassure our members and guests. We are thankful for the tremendous support we received from friends and strangers in every corner of our community and beyond. As an outgrowth, we instituted a number of new security
measures to ensure that our Mandel JCC continues to be a safe, welcoming and inclusive place for all.
While we are proud of our accomplishments, we are not resting on our laurels. To sustain our growth and develop new, meaningful ways to connect and broaden our relevance in the community, this past year, 15 members of our Board and executive staff engaged in a strategic planning process. As an outgrowth of the process, we identified a number of priorities focused on families, camping, technology, community building and partnerships that you will be hearing more about over the next few months.
We could not do any of this alone. None of these achievements would have been remotely possible without the generous support and assistance of so many: our dedicated Board and lay leaders, our talented staff, our many funding partners,
donors and volunteers. We give special thanks to the Jewish Federation of Cleveland for their unwavering support and encouragement.
Throughout this report you’ll meet a wonderfully diverse group of people whose stories illustrate the importance of The J to the lives of our neighbors. We thank them – and you – for being such an important part of our Mandel JCC!
Alan B. Semel Board Chair Michael G. Hyman President & CEOBuilding Blocks
EARLY CHILDHOOD
WHEN MANDEL JCC PRESCHOOL MOM CARA SULZER SINGS
“THE CHICKEN SOUP” SONG (…PUT SOME OIL IN A POT; STIR IT UP NICE AND HOT…) OR WAXES POETIC ABOUT HER SEPHARDIC CHAROSET RECIPE, IT’S CLEAR THE J’S EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAM HAS HIT ITS MARK.
Cara and Matt Sulzer have been actively involved with The J’s Early Childhood Program from the moment their son Liam, now 6, entered preschool three years ago. Their 2-year old daughter Ella is in the three-day a week program.
Raised in a traditional Catholic family in the Canton area, Cara met Matt, a lifelong Clevelander with strong Jewish roots, while both were students at John Carroll University. “One of the many wonderful things about The J’s Early Childhood Program is how it has infused our entire family with a broader appreciation of Jewish holidays and traditions,” says Cara. “As an interfaith family this has meant a lot to us.”
Cara says The J’s staff could not have been more welcoming and inclusive.
“My children’s teachers are so nurturing and passionate and they have been a tremendous resource. As I learn about Judaism with my children, I am able to
Joan Morgenstern reads to a group of pre-K students
share Liam’s joyful anticipation of Shabbat dinner with family and friends, and I see the pride on his face when we light the clay candlesticks he made in class.”
Joan Morgenstern, director of The J’s Early Childhood Services, is happy Cara finds The J’s environment nurturing and welcoming. “At school, we don’t just support children – we support parents too,” she says. “Creating a warm, inclusive community for the entire family is as integral to our mission as educating young children.”
Cara is also enthusiastic about the scope of activities offered throughout the day. “It’s so great to expose my children at such young ages, to yoga, swimming lessons, music, drama and even outdoor gardening,” she says. “Liam’s class planted seeds in the Stanley and Hope Adelstein Garden and last fall, at harvest time, prepared dishes using the herbs, fruits and vegetables the children grew themselves.”
As their children made new friends, so did Cara and Matt. Cara is now part of a group of Mandel JCC preschool parents who regularly meet for a mom’s night out, arrange play dates with their kids, and celebrate Shabbat together at each other’s homes.
Becoming part of The J’s preschool family has been transformative for Cara. “I love all The J has to offer, not only for my children, but for the enduring friendships we have all made,” she says. “I never cease to be amazed by the acts of kindness and warmth I feel from the Mandel JCC community.”
Fitness Journey ANDREW STROBEL
IN
2011, AFTER FINDING HIMSELF OUT OF BREATH WHILE CLIMBING THREE FLIGHTS OF STAIRS DURING HIS SENIOR YEAR AT THE ROCHESTER INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, ANDREW STROBEL RESOLVED TO LOSE WEIGHT AND GET IN SHAPE.
Andrew Strobel’s remarkable fitness journey led him to the Mandel JCC, where he found a home.
During a summer break from college the then-255-pound student started exercising on an elliptical in his parents’ Lyndhurst home. Later, he joined a workout group at a company where he interned. By the time he returned to school for his last quarter, “I had lost a chunk of weight and I don’t think many people recognized me,” Andrew said.
“After graduating and accepting a job at Nook Industries in Cuyahoga Heights, the electrical and mechanical engineer was determined to maintain his healthy lifestyle. He visited several area fitness centers, but felt most comfortable at The J.
“There was a class called Hard Core Edge,” Andrew said. “It was an intense class and I thought it offered a great work out and would be a cool way to meet people my age.”
One of the first people he befriended was the instructor, Andy Isaacs, who invited Andrew to lift weights with him.
As the group expanded and the workouts became more challenging, Andrew and
his newfound workout buddies at The J, trained for and participated in several Tough Mudder Mud Runs. More recently, Andrew, Andy and Rick Mitchell competed in The J’s Indoor Triathlon and Biathlon, capturing top honors twice for their relay team.
Since joining The J, Andrew, now 28, works out in The J’s state-of-the-art fitness center and regularly attends group fitness classes. These experiences have inspired him to become a competitive runner, who has finished in the top 10 of several races.
“The J’s skilled certified personal trainers and fitness instructors are dedicated to making fitness fun and helping every member meet his or her goals – whether those goals are to stay limber, lose weight, tone or train for competition, like Andrew does,” said Rich Zatta, Manager, Fitness
Center and Personal Training. “Equally important, our staff and members help motivate and support one another and lasting connections are formed.”
Andrew could not agree more. “The people I’ve worked out with and crossed paths with at The J have been so encouraging, energetic and good at helping to drive me to reach my goals,” said Andrew, who now weighs a comfortable 170 pounds.
“The J has been a huge factor in helping me become a fitness enthusiast,” Andrew added. “ This is a place where I’ve not only become faster and stronger, but I’ve found a welcoming community that I hope to be a part of for a very long time.”
The J is Family FINDING SUPPORT
THERE’S SO MUCH TO CONSIDER WHEN SELECTING
A SUMMER CAMP FOR ANY CHILD, BUT IMAGINE DOING THAT WHEN YOUR CHILD IS FACING A SERIOUS HEALTH ISSUE.
That’s the predicament Yelena Boxer and Brian Kelly found themselves in when Aiden, then 5 years old and in Pre-K at the Mandel JCC’s Early Childhood Program, was diagnosed with a rare brain tumor.
Last June, the family traveled to New York, where doctors removed the tumor and pituitary gland. Remarkably, Aiden was discharged from the hospital after just eight days, a feat his mom credits with the psychosocial skills he learned from the Early Childhood program and, in particular, from Joan Morgenstern, The J’s Early Childhood Director.
“Because of his preschool experience, Aiden had the social and developmental tools needed to be able to articulate his feelings and emotions throughout the hospital stay,” said Yelena. “He was able to tell us what he needed, face his fears, be brave and recover from the operation in record time. I attribute so much of that to the skills he learned in the Early Childhood program.”
Ten days after leaving the hospital and with summer already underway, only one restriction remained – to avoid contact sports. Wanting Aiden to enjoy the rest of the summer and be active in a safe setting, his parents decided he would join older sister Shayna at The J’s Francine and Benson Pilloff Family Performing Arts Camp, largely because they already knew and trusted the staff.
“Aiden was excited about attending camp, and we were grateful that The J’s theatre camp was a little less rugged than a traditional day camp, so it offered him some protection,” Yelena said. “He loved it and was just a normal kid there, even though he looked a little different because of the operation. It was a very supportive environment.”
Aaron Tevlowitz, Director of Day Camps and Children Services, says The J tailors J-Day Camp experiences to every child’s needs, interests and abilities. “When I was asked if there was something we could do for Aiden, I immediately said yes,” he said. “Staff kept an extra eye on him and were always checking in to see how he felt, but they did not hover. If Aiden needed a break, he took a break until he was ready to get back into the thick of things. That is a true testament to the training our camp staff go through and the emphasis they put on allowing campers to grow at their own speed in a safe and nurturing environment.”
Each summer, more than 600 children attend one of six J-Day Camps located at The J’s Halle Park Site in Burton, Safran Park on its Beachwood campus, or Fairmount Temple also in Beachwood. In addition to the Pilloff Family Performing Arts Camp, J-Day Camps
also offer: Anisfield Day Camp; Anisfield B’Ivrit (formerly Hebrew Immersion); Sports Camp and J Sports Academy; and Adventure and Travel Camps. A motivated staff of 200 counselors and specialists ensure campers are active, engaged, safe and having a blast.
As for Aiden, he had so much fun at camp last year that this year -- with no medical restrictions – he insisted on returning to Performing Arts Camp and Shayna will again be joining him.
The family’s connection to The J remains strong year-round. Aiden and Shayna attend Kids Club, The J’s after school program, where they do their homework, take swim lessons, and play with other children. Brian, who participates in The J’s Indoor Triathlon and Biathlon, exercises at The J regularly and Yelena joins him on the weekend and has also participated in the Indoor Triathlon.
For Yelena and Brian, who don’t have family living in Cleveland, The J has become a home away from home.
“It’s been a godsend for us because we’re both working parents,” Yelena said. “Starting with preschool, and now J-Day Camps, it’s been a place where the kids are safe and well cared for and could grow when we weren’t with them. We are so lucky to have found The J and couldn’t ask for a more welcoming community for our whole family.”
Film Stars
SALLY & LARRY SEARS
EVEN AS A TEENAGER, SALLY SEARS UNDERSTOOD THE TRANSFORMATIVE POWER THAT MOVIES COULD HAVE TO SHED LIGHT ON AN ISSUE, TELL A STORY OR CHRONICLE HISTORY.
Sally Sears, a Youngstown native, became enthralled with the silver screen as a teen, when she and her friend Bonnie Cole regularly watched the latest movies at their neighborhood theater.
In a fortunate turn of luck – Hollywood could not have scripted it better – Bonnie, along with Deborah Bobrow, Director of Arts and Culture, helped launch the Mandel JCC’s annual Cleveland Jewish FilmFest 11 years ago. When volunteers were needed to screen potential films for the first FilmFest, Bonnie knew an ideal candidate was just one phone call way – Sally Sears.
“When I was asked to be part of The J’s FilmFest, little did I know how fulfilling this experience would be, and the wonderful, enduring friendships I would make,” says Sally.
At first Sally was quiet during the film review process but quickly became more comfortable expressing her critique of movies. “When I joined the committee I was reticent about expressing my opinions about the movies we screened. Then I began to understand how to think critically about a movie and determine if the production quality, subject matter, entertainment level, Jewish content and potential appeal to our very discerning Cleveland audiences would make the film worthy of being considered for the FilmFest,” says Sally.
Deborah Bobrow says Sally has played a starring role as a FilmFest committee member and as a co-chair. “Sally’s thoughtful comments about the movies we screen and her continued leadership are a major asset to our committee,” says Deborah. “She has greatly contributed to the FilmFest’s success and we are very fortunate to have her on our committee.”
The lively give-and-take of FilmFest committee members as they share their insights and opinions is something Sally continues to enjoy. “As we discuss a film we never lose sight of our goal which is to appeal to our audience and to present a comprehensive and compelling FilmFest lineup that includes comedies, documentaries, shorts, features and dramas,” Sally says.
Now in its eleventh year, the Cleveland Jewish FilmFest has become a family affair and Sally’s husband, Larry, and daughter, Natalie, share a co-starring role. Both can frequently be found at many of the screenings. They readily agree that the
FilmFest adds to the quality of life for our community. It’s because of this that the Sears have made generous philanthropic gifts to the FilmFest.
“It’s natural that if you enjoy and appreciate something, and feel it is worthy of support, to then support a project like the FilmFest,” said Larry. It’s been nice to see Sally’s passion for the FilmFest and she works very hard at it.”
“I am passionate about film, Jewish culture, community and the ability to share with others” said Sally. “One of the things I am most proud of is that the FilmFest brings the Jewish community together to educate, entertain and discuss, and to simply enjoy the art form,” she continued. “It is so worthy and such an important part of The J.”
In an effort to expand and develop a crosscultural reach, the FilmFest has partnered with other festivals like the Chagrin Documentary Film Festival and the Cleveland Institute of Art’s Cinematheque . “As we evolve and adapt, our goal is to engage a broader and more diverse FilmFest audience,” says Sally. “Whether a movie makes you laugh or cry, whether you are Jewish or non-Jewish, once the lights go out, movies broaden our perspective and serve as a bridge to connect us all on a very human level.”
Happy Campers
SYDNEY, JAKE & OLIVIA
LAST
SPRING WHEN STACY BEUGEN TOLD HER PRE-TEEN KIDS SYDNEY, JAKE AND OLIVIA BURKONS SHE HAD SIGNED THEM UP FOR CAMP WISE, HER CHILDREN’S REACTION WAS LESS THAN ENTHUSIASTIC –TO PUT IT MILDLY.
Sydney, then 12, began sobbing and insisted her life was ruined. “Along with calling me the worst mom in the world, she wailed she could not possibly live without her cat, phone and her own bathroom,” says Stacy.
Stacy’s other two children got caught up in the drama and joined their sister in a Camp Wise boycott. But Stacy held her ground.
“For years I had heard nothing but glowing remarks about Camp Wise – the caring and exceptional counselors, the remarkable activities, the Jewish programming and the opportunity to make friends for a lifetime, says Stacy. “I knew once the kids got into the swing of things they would be just fine.”
On the morning the camp bus pulled out of the parking lot and headed out to Chardon, Stacy was anxious. To her immense relief a glowing letter soon arrived from Sydney.
Dear Mom,
At first, I thought this camp would be stupid and gross, but you were right, I love it so much! It was really hot today but I had a lot of fun! I even have a counselor who lives in Sydney, Australia.”
Shortly, other upbeat letters began to arrive. Like other Camp Wise parents, Stacy regularly checked the Camp Wise website for pictures of her kids – and found lots of photos of them with their friends smiling and happily engaged in camp activities.
Camp Wise, the overnight camp of the Mandel JCC, is located in Chardon on 325 beautiful acres and serves 600 campers each summer. Camp Wise has received national recognition for innovation and excellence.
One of the most gratifying aspects for Rachel Felber, Camp Wise Director, is knowing that she and her staff are making a difference in the lives of so many kids and teens. “It is always so rewarding for camp staff to see new campers quickly turn into Camp Wise raving fans,” says Rachel.
“Sydney, Jake and Olivia thrived at camp. Our dedicated and talented staff helped them learn new skills and the importance of teamwork. In turn, the kids left camp with more confidence, independence and a stronger sense of their Jewish identity. We are all looking forward to having them return this summer.”
When the kids came home from camp –the tears started again. “This time Sydney was crying because she already missed her counselors and the new friends she made at camp,” says Stacy.
Stacy has nothing but praise for the Mandel JCC and Camp Wise. “Camp was everything I had hoped it would be for my children and so much more,” Stacy said. She is also thankful for the financial assistance The J provided her children. Approximately 10% of the kids who attend Camp Wise require financial assistance to make camp possible to attend. “Our family has recently been going through a tough time and it has taken its toll on the kids,” she says. “Without the assistance The J provided there is no way I could have sent my children to camp,” she added. “The magic of Camp Wise changed my children’s lives.”
To see her children get away for three weeks and come back home content, happy and silly again, and ready to return to school was a real blessing for Stacy. “I owe it all to TheJ, Camp Wise and the Jewish community. When this challenging time ends, my goal is to pay it forward.”
Working Out
AT LUNCH PLUS
TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS ARE GOOD DAYS FOR TOBY AND HERB GEDULD. THAT’S WHEN THE UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS COUPLE, WITH TOBY AT THE WHEEL, DRIVE OVER TO THE MANDEL JCC’S LUNCH PLUS PROGRAM FOR AN AFTERNOON OF EXERCISE, SOCIALIZATION AND A DELICIOUS KOSHER LUNCH.
“Lunch Plus has a lot going for it,” says Herb Geduld, 86. “It gives us a chance to get out of the house, to work out with a great fitness instructor and to meet friends.”
Toby, 82, shares her husband’s enthusiasm, and says along with all the good things about Lunch Plus, an extra perk is the kosher lunch the couple enjoys with friends.
“Because we are Orthodox sitting down to a nicely prepared kosher lunch is a treat and a big help because it gets me out of the kitchen,” says Toby.
A few years ago, the couple heard about Lunch Plus from close friends who encouraged them to participate in the program. “Herb and I thought we would give it a try and have been coming ever since,” says Toby.
Lunch Plus, located at Warrensville Community Apartments in Cleveland Heights, annually provides12,000 nutritionally balanced hot kosher lunches six-days-a-week to 240 elderly adults.
Equally as important, Lunch Plus provides a rich variety of stimulating activities and opportunities for socialization designed to help seniors stay engaged and active.
“The goal for Lunch Plus is to reduce isolation in the senior population by providing programming and meals. This program goes
a long way to keep our seniors active, healthy and living independently in our community,” says Yolanda Nixon, the Lunch Plus Adult Services Supervisor.
One of the added benefits of attending Lunch Plus is that all participants can take advantage of the 55-minute exercise program offered Tuesdays and Thursdays immediately prior to lunch. The Gedulds schedule their Lunch Plus visits to coincide with the days the fitness class is offered. “The structured exercises are something we would not be able to do alone at home,” says Toby.
Keeping active and fit is important to the Gedulds who are parents of three children, grandparents of 15, and great grandparents of 24. Along with raising an accomplished family, Toby has been an active member of her community and spent six years living in Israel with Herb in the 1960s. Herb’s accomplished professional life included working as a chemist, inventor, writer and owner of a successful chemical company.
Pauline Calabrese along with Sue D’amore, two of the Mandel JCC’s certified personal trainers, each spend one afternoon a week
leading fitness classes at Lunch Plus. “I enjoy having the Gedulds in class. Herb and Toby take their exercise time seriously, but still have plenty of fun in the process,” Pauline says.
With music from the 60s, 70s and 80s playing in the background, Pauline leads Lunch Plus seniors in a “mini-senior boot camp,” designed to improve balance, flexibility, core strength and endurance. “I keep my eye on every single person during the class and if someone needs to modify an exercise to their individual comfort and strength level, that’s perfectly okay,” says Pauline. “The important thing is to keep moving.”
The Gedulds, who quote Pirkei Avot, “When my strength fails, do not forsake me,” have nothing but praise for the entire Lunch Plus staff, including Yolanda and Pauline.
“There is truly something for everyone at Lunch Plus – but most importantly we are part of a strong community here,” says the Geduld’s. “No one is ever alone when they are part of the Lunch Plus family – and all feel welcome.”
Funding for Lunch Plus comes from the Cuyahoga County Department of Senior and Adult Services, Jewish Federation of Cleveland, Western Reserve Area Agency on Aging and the Mandel Jewish Community Center.
Giving Back
BEN AND JENNIE BECKER’S COURTSHIP BEGAN AFTER MEETING AT A 2010 CAMP WISE REUNION AND DEVELOPED WHILE WORKING TOGETHER AT THE MANDEL JCC’S OVERNIGHT CAMP
IN CHARDON.
Now married, Ben and Jennie Becker continue to give back to the organization that brought them together.
“A strong community needs a strong J and a strong J needs a strong community,” said Ben, 29. The Toledo native and his wife, 31, who was raised in Youngstown, are among the J’s youngest and most ardent supporters. Together, they raised $1,000 two years in a row as participants in The J’s Indoor Triathlon & Biathlon.
Last year, they advocated for a young adult event at the Cleveland Jewish FilmFest. Their perseverance paid off when more than 40 people attended the FilmFest’s first-ever young adult screening. Working with event organizers, the Beckers selected a dark comedy, sure to appeal to a younger crowd, and hosted a pre-screening happy hour. They anticipate an even larger young-adult crowd at this year’s festival.
(L-R): Jennie and Ben Becker, Katie Shames, former Board member, and Deborah Bobrow, The J’s Director of Arts & Culture.
Impressed with the Beckers’ passion and commitment and hoping to include films of interest to millennials, FilmFest organizers asked Ben and Jennie to join the screening committee. The couple quickly agreed to participate.
Ben has served on The J’s Fund Development committee and now serves on the Mandel JCC’s Board of Trustees. When Alan Semel, The J’s Board Chair and long-time friend and former colleague, asked Ben to join the Board, he was eager to do so because he was already so actively involved with The J. “I’m excited to get more formally involved with The J and give back to an organization that has done so much for me,” said Ben.
The Beckers’ ties to Camp Wise remain strong, where Jennie, now a science teacher at Hawken School, served as assistant director and Ben, now a senior consultant at Levin Consulting, was a supervisor. They continue to volunteer at Camp Wise events throughout the year and host international staff during the summer.
“Ben and Jennie’s contributions to The J are immeasurable,” said Michael Hyman, Mandel JCC President and CEO. “Their lives, like so many of us, are so busy yet they find the time, energy and passion to give back to an organization that means so much to them.”
Jennie, a runner who also works out with one of The J’s personal trainers, said she gets as much from The J as she gives. “My whole Jewish identity is rooted at The J,” she said. “This is where I had my first full-time job. I met many close friends here. I met my husband here. This is just a grounding place. Whenever I work out and see people I know it feels like home.”
Ben agrees. “It’s a no-brainer to support The J in any way I can, so other people can have the kind of experiences I’ve found so valuable and formative,” he said, before adding with a chuckle, “Come to think of it, without The J I’d have no wife and no best friends.”
Strength in Numbers AND YOGA
FORTUNATELY, THERE ARE STILL A FEW “CELL PHONE FREE ZONES” WHERE ONE CAN FIND RESPITE FROM THE UNWANTED AND OFTEN STARTLING INTERRUPTION OF A CELL PHONE RING.
The J’s group fitness classes are one such island. So a yoga class was recently surprised when instructor Shane Ortega’s device rang during their practice. Red-faced, Shane answered the phone and sheepishly said, “It’s my mother.” Without missing a beat, he held up the phone and pointed it toward his students. “Hi Mom,” they shouted in unison, before breaking out in laughter.
Addressing Shane’s mother as “Mom” doesn’t seem like such a stretch for students in Shane’s Thursday, 10:35 a.m. yoga class, who say they feel like one big happy family.
That’s certainly true for students in all of Shane’s yoga classes. The diversity of participants is what you might notice first. Men and women of many races, ethnicities and religions range in age from a 20-something man who works the night shift to retirees in their 80s.
Influenced by Shane’s inclusive teaching style, the eclectic group supports each other through yoga poses and breathing during class and finds themselves kibitzing outside of the Rzepka Yoga Studio before and after sessions. They all bemoan that their weekly classes simply aren’t long enough.
“Several years ago, some of the regulars began having lunch together and that group grew as more people practiced yoga,” Shane said. “As recently as last month, more
than 20 of us went to a restaurant for lunch immediately after class. We’ve also had different members host potluck luncheons at their homes. It’s wonderful to see how our class has become a community and grown together.”
“Our yoga class is unique because we all feel like family,” said Judy Zwick, who has been a member of the Mandel JCC since it opened in 1986. “We all started together at The J, Shane was originally a participant and then progressed to becoming our teacher. As a class, we have become very attached to each other and feel everyone’s joys and sorrows.”
That connection among students is a common denominator at all of The J’s group fitness classes. “It’s really empowering and motivating to be in a class with an encouraging and supportive instructor,” says Kate Toohig, The J’s Director of Fitness, Wellness and Recreation. “A close knit, ‘we are all in this together’ bond is formed when you stretch, work out and sweat together as a group.”
The J fosters that sense of community by being so welcoming to students of all levels and all abilities and by offering several yoga
styles taught by instructors with varying backgrounds. “Yoga attracts people of different ages because its practice has so much to offer every type of body,” said Shane, whose classes cover the fundamentals of yoga as well as slow flow and traditional Vinyasa styles. “Unlike some studios where you have to conform to one style of practice, our members are able to find the type of yoga and class that fits best for them.”
Shane, who leads five yoga classes a week, plus teaches yoga to children in the Early Childhood program, is equally at home at The J’s Membership Desk where he also serves as a Membership Associate. He began practicing yoga almost a decade ago when he found himself at a low point physically, mentally and spiritually.
“I discovered my practice at The J and a friend suggested I enroll in teacher training,” he said. “Since then, I’ve taught all over Cleveland and Akron, but now I make The J my full-time home. The J’s Yoga classes build friendship and community and this helps us all connect on a deeper level. The sense of belonging and caring we all have for one another is very special.”
ANNUAL CAMPAIGN
MAY 15, 2016 – MAY 15, 2017
MANDEL
Anonymous
Sally & Larry Sears
CHAI
Trish & Mark Adler
Brent R. & Candace R. Grover
Family Philanthropic Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
Dan & Ellen Zelman Family Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
John Andrew Lang Philanthropic Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
– IHO Sam Wise
Shelley & Greg Marcus
Laurie & Rob Marks
Piper Jaffray
Rochelle & Harley Gross Philanthropic Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
Stanley & Barbara
Meisel II Philanthropic Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland Legacy Construction Services, LLC
Aliki & Peter Rzepka
Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.
LEADERSHIP
Raquel & Stephen Bassett
Alina & Prasad Bodas
Brian & Beth Robbins Philanthropic Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
Kareen & Michael Caputo
Crystal Clear Building Services
David & Enid Rosenberg Family Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
Mindy & Martin Davidson
Duvin Family Philanthropic Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
Ed Goulder
The Estate of Maurice B. Feren
Lottie Gray
Susan & Michael Hyman
KeyBank Foundation
Lynn & Ira Krumholz
Larry & Bonnie Frankel Philanthropic Fund
Sandra and Steve Laserson
Shelly & Scott Lewis
Stanley Levy
Larry Mack
Joyce Rothschild & Daniel Mansoor
Jan & Rick Mitchell
Keith & Cynthia Polster Philanthropic Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
Rozalina & Bennett Rubin
Lisa & Bill Schonberg
Jessica & Alan Semel
Katie & Michael Shames
Adrienne & Harvey Siegel
Shani & Scott Spiegle
Jeanne & Jordan Tobin
Jennifer & Neil Tramer
Michael Ungar & Deborah Warner
Linda & Les Vinney
Miriam Vishny & Mark Cohen
Andria & Darrell Young
MITZVAH
Anonymous
Jennie & Ben Becker
Michelle & Mark Bogomolny
Heidi & Loren Chylla
Susan & Bernard Goodman
Marilyn & Richard Goodman
Malvina Klopman
– IMO Gilles Klopman
Ellen & Earl Leiken
Leslie & Ken Levine
Jamie & Ben Light
Darby & Jon Miller Steiger
Bernard & Heidi Perla
Barbara & Michael Peterman
Cyndi & Rob Port
Fred & Lynn Rosenberg
Kelly & Gil Rubanenko
The Salkin Family Charitable Fund
– IHO Laura Salkin’s 70th birthday
CHAVERIM
Deborah & Harry Ackerman
Liza Adams
Janice & Mitchell Adell
Louise & Joseph Barmann
Nancy & Larry Bell
Steven Belman
Yefim Benenson
Elaine Bercu
Beth & Brett Levy
Philanthropic Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
Elaine Bolasny
Dora Bornfeld
Susannah Butler & John Miller
Marilyn Cagin
– IMO Harry Cagin
Sara Caesar Williams
Regan Chamberlin
– IHO Zara Greenberg
Tsilya & Grigory Chernov
City Title Agency, Ltd.
– IMO Joseph Moskowitz
Contempo Cuisine
Lauren Corbin
Janet Cort
– IMO Jacquelyn Mesnick
The Coyle Family
– IMO Bert Cowan
Bruce Daskal
Susan Dery Preisler & Bill Preisler
Karen K. Eisenberg
Maxine & Allan Endy
Barbara & Barry Epstein
Sharon & Bennett Fagin
Julie & Joel Falck
Linda & Jack FogelIn
Memory of Norman Bresky
Marguerite Forshey
– IMO of Joseph Moskowitz
Rita Frankel
Marc Freimuth
– IHO Hyman
grandchildren & Susan’s recovery
Alan Friedman
Jerry Gillett
Hannah & Edward Gilmore
Robert Ginsburg
Abigail & Marc Glick
Michelle & Efi Golan
Sara Gorby
– IMO Joe Moskowitz
Lois Smolovitz
– IMO Joe Moskowitz
Dee & Saul Davis
– IMO Joe Moskowitz
Alan Greenberg
Bob Gries
Kathleen Griffin
Lee & Peter Haas
Paula & Dan Herman
Robert Hexter
Jessica Holden
Samuel & Eva Horwitz
iN DEMAND L.L.C.
– IMO Bert Cowan
Alan Israel
– IMO Harry Gips
Beverly Israel
Jackie & Fred Rothstein
Philanthropic Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
Judy & Don Jacobson
Robert A. & Marcia L. Fein
Donor Advised Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
Alice Jennings
– IMO Mark Jennings
Teri & Eldon Kabb
– IMO Sanford Volsky
Lola & Mel Kamins
– IMO Albert Hodous
Richard Katzman
Lesley & Jonathan Kaye
Lois Kennedy
Sue Klarreich
– IHO Margie Sach’s 90th birthday
Terri & Stuart Kline
Marian Krieger
Julie & David Kronenberg
– IMO Jacob & Hilde Hennenberg
Allison Krueger
Giselle & Steve Lander
– IHO Cindy & Keith Polster
Floyd Lanhan
– IMO Bert Cowan
Catherine Lavelle
Michelle & Richard Lawther
Sandi & Bill Lehr
Jessica Leonard &
Thomas Dieterle
Walter Leyser
Belinda & James Lieberman
Nina Light
– IMO Joseph Moskowitz
Nora Lindheim
Belle Likover
Catherine Listinsky
Lori Weinstein & David
Sherriff Philanthropic Fund of the Jewish Federation
Kathy Kaden-Markowitz & Alvie Markowitz
Marla & Joseph Shafran Foundation
– IHO The Kahana Family
McCarthy, Lebit, Crystal & Liffman Co., LPA
– IHO Mark Adler
Susan & Peter Meisel
Erin MilneI
Carl Monastra
– IHO Jeff & Marlene Kahana Family
Julie Mostov
Coletta Mulloy
– IMO Joseph Moskowitz
Jessica Murray
Marilyn Nudelman
David Orlean
Sharon Peerless
– IHO Sheri Gross
Sharon & Joel Peerless
Kim Pesses
Allison & Scott Peterson
Tod & Jody Podl
Debra & Don Posner
Steve & Loree Potash
Heddy & Leonard Rabe
Margie Reimer
– IMO Bert Cowan
Mila & Simon Rekhson
Elaine Rembrandt & Rabbi Daniel Roberts
Estelle Ringel
Candace & Dennis Risen
Robin Romisher
Irina & Yakov Rotenberg
Arlene & Jordan Rothkopf
– IHO Ryan & Josh Davidson
Daniel Rothstein
Shiri & Joel Saltzman
– IMO Mary Ellen Saltzman
Virginia Sample
Sandra K. & Jeremy S. Rosenthal Philanthropic
Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
Marleen Schachere
Suzanne & Marvin Schaefer
Susan & Lawrence Scheps
– IMO Bert Cowan
The Schleidt Family
– IMO Bert Cowan
Ed Schmith
– IMO Bert Cowan
Diane & Harvey Scholnick
Kathleen & William Schwab
Michael Sepesy
Maude & Melvin Shafron
Esther & Edward Silver
Mailyn Simms
Ilana Hoffer Skoff & Rabbi Joshua Hoffer Skoff
Jennifer & Todd Stern
Flo Tallisman
Alison & Eric Tannenbaum
Riaz Tarar
Tim Frank Septic Tank Cleaning Co.
Marc Terkel
The Liberty Textile Company
Deborah & Kenneth Traeger
Beverley & Richard Uria
Robert Vickers
Paul Vincent
Maria Volokh
Joyce & Eric Wald
Jeffrey Warren
– IMO Saul Eisen
Peggy & Phil Wasserstrom
June Watzman
– IMO Robert Kanner
Aimee Weber
– IHO Zara Greenfield
Weintraub Family Fund
Eleanor Weisman
Marilyn Weiss
William Thomas Wieder
Eileen & James Wilkoff
Carol & David Willen
Cheryl Davis & Jonathon Wise
Holly Zager
Iris & Gerald Zahler
Michael & Laura Zeilinger
Ronna & Robert Zelwin
FUNDING PARTNERS
The Mandel JCC thanks all of our funding partners who have generously supported us throughout this past year. We especially thank the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Foundation, Jewish Federation of Cleveland and United Way of Greater Cleveland for their continued commitment and support.
FOUNDATIONS
& COMMUNITY
FUNDING
Anonymous
Anshe-Chesed Fairmount Temple
Bennett & Donna Yanowitz
Philanthropic Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
Bernard D. & Susan Goodman
Family Philanthropic Fund
B’nai Jeshurun Congregation
Brent R. and Candace R. Grover
Family Philanthropic Fund of the Jewish Federation
Cleveland Automobile Club
Orphans Outing Fund
Cleveland Hebrew Schools
Educational Foundation of the Jewish Federation
The Covenant Foundation
Cuyahoga Arts & Culture
Cuyahoga County Department of Senior and Adult Services
Cuyahoga County Public Library
Dan and Ellen Zelman Family Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
SOURCES ($1000 and above in support)
David and Enid Rosenberg Family Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
David & Inez Myers Foundation Cleveland, Ohio
David B. Orlean Philanthropic Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
Duvin Family Philanthropic Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
FGI Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
Friends of Jewish Lifelong Learning
Gitta Stein Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
Greater Cleveland Film Commission
Gregory & Shelley Milin Marcus
Philanthropic Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
H. Ross-Lowenstein and Irwin Lowenstein Philanthropic Fund of the JFC
Harold Grinspoon Foundation
Harry K. and Emma R. Fox Charitable Foundation
Henry and Eugenia Green Family Foundation
The Iris Bialosky Zahler Lecture Series of the Mandel JCC
Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Foundation
James & Susan Ratner Family Foundation
Jennifer and Grant Dinner Fund of The Joseph & Florence
Mandel Family Foundation
Jewish Education Center of Cleveland
Jewish Federation of Cleveland
John Andrew Lang Philanthropic Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
John P. Murphy Foundation
Keith & Cynthia Polster
Philanthropic Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland KeyBank Foundation
Kol Nashim The Women of Suburban Temple - Kol Ami
Larry & Bonnie Frankel Philanthropic Fund
CORPORATE SPONSORS ($1000 and above in donations or in-kind support)
Accrinet Corporation
Allergy Immunology Associates, Inc.
Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.
Beaches and Dreams Travel Co.
Brennan Heating & Cooling
Cleveland Cinemas
Cleveland Jewish News
Crystal Clear Building Services
CT Consultants
Cuyahoga County Public Library
Empire Paving
Fabo Architecture, Inc. Force Sports
Giant Eagle Legacy Village
Gross Builders
Huntington Bank
HW & Co.
Jay Auto Group
Keller Williams Greater Cleveland
Legacy Construction Services, LLC
Leonard Krieger Fund of the Cleveland Foundation
Leonard, Lillian, Faye, Albert B. & Audrey G. Ratner Donor Advised Fund
The Lerner Foundation
Lois and Martin Marcus Family Philanthropic Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage
Marci & Daniel Ungar Philanthropic Fund
Maurice Saltzman Youth Grant Program
Mayer-Haber JCC Endowment Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
The Morshana Foundation
Nathan & Fannye Shafran
Philanthopic Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland Ohio Arts Council
Ohio Humanities Council
The Nathan L. and Regina Herman Charitable Fund of the Jewish Federation
Penni & Stephen Weinberg Fund
Peterman Family Arts & Culture Fund
The Pittsburgh Foundation
Polster Family Foundation
Robert S. and Sylvia K. Reitman Family Foundation of the Jewish Federation
Robert and Eileen Sill Family Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
Rochelle & Harley Gross
Philanthropic Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
The Sally and Larry Sears Fund
Stanley and Barbara Meisel II
Philanthropic Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
The Temple-Tifereth Israel
The Treu-Mart Fund
United Way of Greater Cleveland Western Reserve Area Agency on Aging
Marriot Cleveland East
Mason Structural Steel, Inc
Medical Mutual of Ohio
Mitchell’s Homemade Ice Cream
Neptune Plumbing & Heating Co.
Perspectus Architecture LLC
Piper Jaffray
Precious Cargo Transportation Inc.
Raymond James & Associates, Inc.
Red Maple Inn
RSM
Sosin Law LLC
WCPN Ideastream
DONOR FUNDS FUNDED PROJECTS/PROGRAMS
MAY
15, 2016 – MAY 15, 2017
The Mandel JCC gratefully acknowledges and thanks the following for their commitment to The J. We regret any inadvertent omissions or errors.
A CELEBRATION OF PLAYMAKERS
Donna Accorso
Deborah & Harry Ackerman
Janice & Mitchell Adell
Joanie Berger & Rabbi
Robert Nosanchuk
Elissa Berman
Susan & Daniel Borison
Hallie & Jason Bravo
Rachel & Ken Browner
Claire & Louis Chestney
Gena & Ethan Cohen
Lisa & Mitchell Cronig
Lisa & David Danielpour
Susan Dery Preisler & Bill Preisler
Darrien Fann
Marc Freimuth
Charla Freireich
Susan Friedman
Shelly & Stuart Gebell
Eric Golovan
Amy Groedel
Sheri & David Gross
Darla Gross
Arlene & Robert Gross
Debbie & Steve Hartstein
Bria Heifetz
Karen & Marty Hiller
Susan & Michael Hyman
Steven Isler
Marci Izeman
Sally & Howard Kramer
Sandy & Steve Laserson
Deanne & Jack Levy
Emma Litwak
Rabbi Sharon Marcus &
John Marcus
Jeff Moss
Elena & Ron Myers
Julie & Jeremy Pilloff
Cynthia & Robert Port
Debra & Don Posner
Mila & Simon Rekhson
Michelle & Joel Rosenberg
Alexandra Ross
Sandy & Steven Laserson Donor Advised Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
Marla & Mark Schwartz
Wendi Shapera
Roni & Brian Sokol
Elizabeth Stern & Michael Madorsky
Heidi & Mark Weisman
Phillip & Deborah Weiss
Ella Wexberg
Rachel Zake
Jodi & Michael Zawatsky
Sasha Zborovsky
Jill & Jeff Zimon
ABEL BOOSTERS
Faye Kaplan
ACTIVE ADULT PROGRAMMING
Susan & Jim Loveman
ANISFIELD CAMP
Robert & Eileen Sill Family Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
ANISFIELD RENOVATION
Heidi & Loren Chylla
David & Inez Myers Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio
Duvin Family Philanthropic Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
Scott Gearity
Heather & Bradley Greene
Susan & Michael Hyman
Amanda & Ken Kurland
Shelly & Scott Lewis
Hannah & Cliff Mendelsohn
Kelly & David Millet
Jan & Rick Mitchell
Phyllis & Debra Ann November Children’s Fund
Katie Pollock-Simms & Andy Simms
Robert S. & Sylvia K. Reitman
Family Foundation of the Jewish Federation
Jessica & Alan Semel
Elisabeth & Bradley Sherman
Stacey & Steven Shore
Laurie & Richard Silver
The Treu-Mart Fund
Jennifer & Arthur Weisman
AQUATICS
Richard Immerman
ARTHUR ORLEAN SCHOLARSHIP FUND
David B. Orlean Philanthropic Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
ARTS & CULTURE
PROGRAMMING
The Covenant Foundation
Anita Seid
Bonnie & Stephen Spiegle
CAMP WISE
Stacy & Kyle Anthony
Annie & Kevin Becker
Amy & Scott Bilsky
Deborah & Howard Bobrow
Meg & Evan Cooper
Grant Davis
Myriam Dwoskin & Jay Rolfes
– IHO Michael Hyman
Eli Steinberger N’nai Tzedek
Philanthropic Fund
Kathryn & Richard Edelman
Steve Eisenberg
Wendy & Gene Elconin
– IHO Alan Semel & Gil Rubanenko
Edith Elson
Sol Factor
– IHO of Alexa Konover
Hayley & Marc Feldman
Julie & Michael Frayman
Marci Friedman
Laura Geller
Laurie Goetz
Debra Gold
Matt Golden
Jodie & Jon Herbst
Herman Smith Memorial Fund of the Jewish Community Federation
Karen & Doug Katz
Dolores Kleinman
Laura & Brian Loebl
Marci & Daniel Ungar
Philanthropic Fund
Melvyn P. & Eleanor N. Galin Family Foundation
Darby & Jon Miller-Steiger
Kelly & David Millet
Vannessa Moses
Marilyn Nudelman
Elyssa & Josh Olgin
Jill Paul
Heidi & Bernard Perla
Jennifer Rich-Drasner & Jason
Drasner
– IMO Lillian Makoroff
Robert & Eileen Sill Family Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
The Roth Family Charitable Fund
Jon Rubinstein
Danny Sands
Leah Sass
– IHO Ben Sass
Marcy & Brett Shankman
Stanley E. & Sally Harris
Wertheim Family Fund
Andrea Steinberger
– IHO Phoebe Goldberg
Melissa Steinberger
– IHO Abby Kaufman
Terry & Sam D. Roth Philanthropic Fund of the Youngstown Area
Jewish Federation
Beryl Tishkoff
– IMO Irv & Phyllis Tuffyas
Beverley & Richard Uria
Marni Weinstock
– IMO of Iggy
Debbie & Jim Weisman
Rhona & Brian Williams
Mark Young
– IHO Rachel Felber
Laura & Michael Zeilinger
Nancy & Rob Zimmerman
CAMP WISE ALUMNI 110
CAMPAIGN
Mara Tencer Block
Jamie Babin
Jessie Bruder
Gary Buchler
Rachel Cahn
Jacob Cole
– IHO Beth Young
Lory Conte
– IHO Rachel Felber
Kathy Cushner Kanter
Carly Day
Janna Dorfman
Deidra Edwards
Charles Ekstein
Samuel Eppy
Rachel Felber
Mark Freiman
Eric Gerber
Josh Goldberg
Adam Goldberg
Matthew Golden
Mara Golden
Lesley Gordon
Dawn Green
Heather & Bradley Greene
Jeffrey Greenwald
Jennifer Grischkan
Jessica Gruber Wise
Jeff Hensien
Lisa Hoffman
Susan & Michael Hyman
Mitchell Josephson
Kessner Family
Michael Klein
– IHO Emil Klein
Lee Korland
Dustin Kress
James Levine
Erick & Kevin Levine
Meredith Levine
Deobrah Lewis
Heather Ross-Lowenstein & Irwin Lowenstein
– IHO Jim Levine, Larry
Bram & Mitch Cronig
Lisa Luxemberg
Jill Maremont
Jordan Marks
Barry Marlin
Evan Meles
Katie Moscowitz
Debra & Don Posner
Michael Post
Jessica Rosenblitt
Lauren Rubin
Jon Rubinstein
Alyssa Sands
Jill Sadowsky
Leah Sass
Adam Schonberg
Jessica & Alan Semel
– IHO Julian Peskin & Anne Mulholland
Kari Semel
Martin Shankle
Marcy & Eric Silver
Jennifer Slate
– IHO Kate, Noah, Jenny & Jon
Matt Smith
Lisa Soble Siegmann
Ashley Southard
Jon Steiger
Daniel Stein
Frederic Sternfeld
Andrea Teichner
Heidi Tolchinsky
Marni Weinstock
Alexis Weiss
Morgan Weiss
Rachel Wolf
Mark Young
Beth Young
Lynne Yulish
Michael & Laura Zeilinger
Mattew Zukerman
CAMP WISE INFIRMARY
Stacy & Kyle Anthony
Nancy & Larry Bell
Heidi & Loren Chylla
Susan & Michael Hyman
Amy & Richard Kalk
Jamie & Ben Light
CLEVELAND JEWISH
BOOK FESTIVAL
Roz Abraham
– IHO grandchildren
American Jewish Committee
Gretchen Anderson
Anshe Chesed Fairmount Temple
Edna & Yair Akrish
– IHO Joshua & Liam Akrish
Faye & Michael Bass
Fran & Marv Bauer
– IMO Tracy Ellen Bauer
Barbara & Bob Bilenker
Elaine Bolasny
Fran & Aaron Bulloff
B’nai Jeshurun Congregation
Bonnie Chizek
– IMO Lawrence Chizek
Bonnie & Michael Cole
Cleveland Play House
Cuyahoga County Public Library
Deedra Dolin
Barbara & Barry Epstein
Marilyn Estrin
Elaine & Roman Frayman
– IMO Mary Ellen Saltzman
Barbara & Jerry Friedson
– IHO Julie Frayman
Friends of Jewish Lifelong Learning
Giant Eagle Legacy Village
Ann & Scott Garson
Peggy & John Garson
Adi & Judith Gerblich
– IMO Jessica Frankel
Bonnie & Lenny Goldfarb
– IMO Olene Gale
Edith Goodman
Alvin L. Gray
– IHO Rachel & Lottie
Leona Green
– IMO Norman Green
Kathleen Griffin
Henry & Eugenia Green
Family Foundation
The Iris Bialosky Zahler Lecture
Series of the Mandel JCC
Israel Bonds
Amy Kalk
Maxine Karns
– IHO Stephanie & Joey Neary
Nancy & Joel Kay
Lenore Golden Kessler
Merle & Robert Kiwi
Sue Klarreich & Family
Kol Nashim The Women of Suburban Temple – Kol Ami
Noreen Koppelman-Goldstein & Barry Goloboff
Tanya P. Krill
– IMO Albert Krill
Eliana LeVine & Josh Polster
Shelly & Scott Lewis
Renee Lieberman
– IMO Florence Weissman
Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage
Marriott Cleveland East
Susan Miller
Darby & Jon Miller Steiger
Na’amat USA
Anat & Saul Nurko
Ohio Arts Council
Ohio Humanities Council
Debbie & Zachary Paris
Podl Family Fund
Raymond James & Associates, Inc.
Elaine Rembrandt
Erica & Erick Remer
Enid & David Rosenberg
– IHO Eliana LeVine & Darby Steiger
Margo & Robert Roth
– IMO Joan Krohn
Aliki & Peter Rzepka
– IMO Esther & Nathan Rzepka
Sally & Larry Sears
Judith & Izhak Shamir
The Sharon Freimuth Memorial Fund of the JCC
Jane Sherwin
Stephanie & Todd Silverman
Karen & Ezra Steiger
The Stern Family
– IHO Julie Frayman
The Temple-Tifereth Israel
Linda Tobin
Miriam Vishny & Mark Cohen
Weintraub Family Fund
Fern Weiss
– IHO Darby Steiger
Sandy Zieve
CLEVELAND JEWISH FILMFEST
Gloria & Ian Abrams
Anonymous
ARCO Comfort Air
Baratz Family
Fran & Jules Belkin
Marcia & Alec Berezin
– IHO Norm Friedman
Berkowitz-Kumin-Bookatz
Memorial Chapel
Susan & Andrew Berman
– IHO Anat Nurko
Laurie & Aaron Billowitz
Beth Wain Brandon
Phyllis & Ken Bravo
Tamar & Peter Brosse
– IMO mother & father
Debbra & James Brown
Denise & Aaron Brzezinski
– IHO Anat Nurko & the FilmFest staff
Avril & David Burg
Cafe 56 Catering
Marilyn Cagin
Kareen & Michael Caputo
Florence Chelm
Cleveland Cinemas
Riley Cohen
Bonnie & Michael Cole
Lisa & Mitchell Cronig
– IHO the 10th anniversary of the Jewish FilmFest
Beth & Rand Curtiss
Cuyahoga Community College
Cuyahoga County Public Library
Daves Supermarkets Inc
David & Inez Myers Foundation
Helene Diamond
– IMO Sharry Bailin
Maureen Dinner
Deedra Dolin
Emily D. Edelstein
Marilyn Estrin
Executive Caterers at Landerhaven, Inc.
Rina & Sam Frankel
Elaine & Roman Frayman
– IMO Chaim Frayman
Marc Freimuth
Ann Freimuth
Lynne & Norm Friedman
Phyllis & Avrum Froimson
Frozen Custard Mayfield Inc.
Jane Furth
– IHO Janet Stotter
JoAnn & Robert Glick
Brenda & David Goldberg
Fran Goldlust
Florence Goodman
– IMO Roz Sukenik
Great Lakes Brewing Company
Greater Cleveland Film Commission
Gregory & Shelley Milin Marcus Philanthropic Fund of the JFC
Harry K. & Emma R. Fox Charitable Foundation
Erica Hartman-Horvitz & Richard Horvitz
Herman & Sadie Eigen Memorial Fund of the Mandel JCC
House of Lights
Nancy Huntsman
Diane Burgin & David Hutt
Ingenuity
Lynda & Don Insul
Deborah & Jerry Isaak-Shapiro
Jack Jaffe
Jennifer & Grant Dinner Fund of
The Joseph & Florence Mandel
Family Foundation
Joan & Alan Gross Philanthropic Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
John P. Murphy Foundation
Joseph & Florence Mandel
Jewish Day School
Joshen Paper & Packaging
Sheri Joy
– IHO Shubert Family
Suellen & Larry Kadis
Roseanne & Michael Kadis
– IHO Deborah Bobrow
Art Kaplansky & Bobbie Freedman
Lesley & Jonathan Kaye
Kent State University
Judy Kirchick
–IHO Erica Hartman-Horvitz
Noreen Koppelman-Goldstein & Barry Goloboff & Midwest Materials
Donna Chernin Kurit
Giselle & Steve Lander
David Leavitt & Leah Spector
Leonard Krieger Fund of the Cleveland Foundation
The Lerner Foundation
Nancy & Adam Levin
Shelly & Scott Lewis
Heather Ross-Lowenstein & Irwin Lowenstein
Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage
Marcus Philanthropic Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
Marriott Cleveland East
Terrence A. Messerman
Hedy & Mike Milgrom
Karen & Barry Mintzer
Mitchell’s Homemade Ice Cream
Peta & Roland Moskowitz
Linda Myers
Anat & Saul Nurko
Ohio Arts Council
Marilyn & Kenneth Oif
Aya Ophir
Carol & David Paley
– IHO the FilmFest’s 10th anniversary
Peterman Family Arts & Culture Fund of the Mandel JCC
Precious Cargo Transportation Inc.
Joanne & Richard Prober
William Prober
Rabbi Alan & Jean Lettofsky
Donor Advised Fund of the Jewish Federation
Mila & Simon Rekhson
Elaine Rembrandt & Rabbi
Daniel Roberts
Allison Retter
Marjorie Reuven
Robert & Eileen Sill Family Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
Rochelle & Harley Gross
Philanthropic Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
Helen & Ronald Ross
Marjorie Bell Sachs
Aviv & Mark Sack
Sheri & Ken Sacks
Suzanne & Jonathan Scharfstein
Lisa & Bill Schonberg
Roberta & Stuart Sears
Sally & Larry Sears
Stephanie & Todd Silverman
Snow Brothers Appliance
Cathy & Jonathan Stamler
Elizabeth Stern & Michael Madorsky
Janet Stotter
Sub 8 Enterprises, Inc.
Elizabeth Sunshine
Andrea Synenberg
V.S. Realty Group, LLC
Barbara & Norm Wain
Amy Wain Garnitz
Walthall CPAs
Susan & Eric Wasserman
Weils of Bainbridge
Penni & Stephen Weinberg
Sari Weinberger
Gail & Ed Weintraub
Wood Trader
Ruth Wolfson
Andria & Darrell Young
Norma & Larry Zukerman
Natalie & Michael Zukerman
DAVID BERGER MEMORIAL FUND
Nathan & Fannye Shafran
Philanthropic Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAM
Melani Factor
Ilana Falitz
Ellie Fiala
Sloane Guyron
The Hawkins Family
– IHO Joan Morgenstern
Zachary Silver
Ariella Tor
Jennifer & Arthur Weisman
Wells Fargo Advisors
Noah Wirick
FAMILY PLACE
Jennifer & Steven Fishman
FITNESS, WELLNESS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT
Linda & Jack Fogel
– IHO Jim Hunt
Elizabeth Marx
– IHO Joseph Babin
Deborah McCoig
– IHO Jodi Jones
GITTA STEIN/CAMP SIMCHA
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Gitta Stein Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
HERMAN EIGEN/STAFF
ALUMNI FUND
Deborah & Howard Bobrow
– IHO Rocker twins
Joel Eigen
INDOOR TRIATHLON
Rachel Abel
Ian Abrams
Deborah & Harry Ackerman
Laura Adams
Janice & Mitchell Adell
Adelphia Metals
Trish & Mark Adler
AFCO Manufacturing
Bruce Allen
Elizabeth Aslakson
Jennifer Bailey
Dee Banks
Marie Baumgartner
Jennie and Ben Becker
Gina Beim
Nancy & Larry Bell
Elizabeth Bell
Kevin Berry
Michelle Bertenthal
Karil Bialotosky
Eve Bianco
Michelle & Mark Bogomolny
Susan Bohinski
Susan & Daniel Borison
Alison Borkowska
Marc Borstein
Botnick Realty Company
Demetra Boyd
Jodie & Seth Bromberg
Barbara Brouman
– IHO Zara Greenfield
Nancy Burnham
– IHO Zara Greenfield
Cadvanced Design, Inc.
Leah & Rabbi Joshua Caruso
Jesse Cervantez
William Chambers
Heidi & Loren Chylla
Sandrine Cleron
Ann Marie Clifford
Chris Clowers
Diane Coblentz
Lynne & Philip Cohen
Avery Cohen
Coit Services of Ohio
Barry Cramer
Kana Cummings
Julie Curtis
Beth Darmstadter
Mindy & Martin Davidson
Cheryl Davis
Joshua Davis
Alex Dembowski III
Billie Di Stefano
Erin Donohue
Peter Dotlich
Ann Dwyer
Lawrence Edwards
Robert Eskin
Craig J. Farrell
– IHO Zara Greenfield
Denise Farris
Robert Fellinger
Sandra Fishbach
Rebecca Fleisher
Johanna Fleisher
Martha & Michael Fleisher
Mary Ann & Brent Fletcher
FPT-Cleveland LCC/Weingold
Rubbish Company
Liz Franzmann
Linda Frazier
Darci Friedman
Ruth Friedman
Sadawna Gainer
Maureen Gallagher
Thomas Garofalo
Ann & Scott Garson
Deborah Gilchrist
Cathy Goldberg
Greg Goldfeder
Randy Goodman
Lottie Gray
Jen Greene
Bradley Greene
Steve Greene
Seth Greenfield & Trista Onesti
Gail Greenfield
Susan Grieshammer
Barbara Grinnell
Matthew Grunzweig
Rubin Gutarts
Teresa Gutierrez
Mallory Hampton
Samuel Harris
John Herman
Lauren Hertzer
Fred Hingel
– IHO Zara Greenfield
Cassandra Holloway
Jayme Honigman
Carol Howard
Dione Hudson
Susan & Michael Hyman
Richard Immerman
Innovative Hearth Products
Taryn & Andy Isaacs
Jewish Family Service Association
Jennifer Johnson
Jane Joseph
Rick Krammer
Holly Kaprosy
Leah Kasmenn
Keene Building Products
Keith & Cynthia Polster
Philanthropic Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
Brian Kelly
Joshua King
Louis Klein
Jordan Klein
Shane Kline-Ruminski
Jon Knoll
Vanessa Ko
Josh Kramer
Kreider Trucking, Inc
Jake Krider
Lois Krill
– IHO of Zara Greenfield
Judy Kudzin
David Kulik
Kate Kutnick
Mandy Kwait
Marvin Lader
Donna Lawrence
Ellen & Earl Leiken
Nancy and Adam Levin
Elena Levina
James Levine
Stanley Levy
Rochelle Lewis
Constance Lewis
Jon Libava
Judith Libava
– IHO Zara Greenfield
Christine Liebson
Maria Litt
Linda Lowenstein
Jesse Lubbers
Larry Mack
Janet & Howard Mack
Rebecca Maly
Dawn Maniawski
Rachel Mann
Joyce Rothschild & Daniel Mansoor
Robert Marcantonio
Tania Markarian
Kevin Markowicz
Marcia Markowicz
Jill & Randy Markowitz
Laurie & Rob Marks
Rachael Martin
Steven Mattlin
Lisa Mayers
Martins Steel Fabrication
Mason Structural Steel
Laura McDonald
Jack McIsaac
Michael Meckler
Eileen Meisler
Karen Michelson
Susan Michelson
Irina Mikhalev
Stacy Miller
Darby & Jon Miller Steiger
Demetrios Mittas
Tara Mizner
Robbie Mocilnikar
Irwin Moore
Steven Moss
Jordyn Musi
Rafahel Muskin
Emily Muskin
Kelly Myers
Alex Namrow
Mat Napchen
Martin Neary
Sharon Newman
Billy Nolan
Talli Onesti
Judy Onesti
Mariah Ornstein
John Osolin
Gokhan Ozuner
Dean Pahr
Sandrine Pal
Folly Patterson
Anne Mulholland & Julian Peskin
Barbara & Michael Peterman
Annette Petranic
Jeremy Pilloff
Daniel Polster
Polster Family Foundation
Debra & Don Posner
Jill Pupa
Michael Ramistella
Mila & Simon Rekhson
Grant Richman
Tom Roach
Beth & Brian Robbins
Robert L. Wilk, Inc.
Rod Rogge
Eric Romilly
Robin & Mark Rood
Michelle Rood
Rachel Rood
Bruce Rose
Adena Rose
Adam Rose
Sharon & Bruce Rosenbaum
Enid & David Rosenberg
Robert Ross
Ray Rossman
Cullen Roth
Jeff Rotsky
Kelly and Gil Rubanenko
Paul Rubanenko
Yoram Rubanenko
Patrick Russo
Katherine Ryan
Aliki & Peter Rzepka
Christine Santoni
Wendy and Bill Sattin
Ben Sattin
Leslie Schaeffer
Thomas Scheidemantel
Sheila & Jeff Schiffman
Lisa & Bill Schonberg
Chris Scott
Jessica & Alan Semel
Kari Semel
Michael Semel
Michael Shames
Brien Shanahan
Lee Shapiro
Dee Shedlow
Kelly Sheridan
Elisabeth & Bradley Sherman
Sabrina & Aaron Shifman
Scott Sill
Harvey Siegel
Betsy & Brent Silver
Debra Silverman
Elizabeth Sisk
Zehava & Warren Sklar
Katie Smith
Mary Solomon
Rabbi Stacy Schlein & Jeremy Sosin
Howard Sperber
Carl Sperber
Jody & Scott Spero
Shani & Scott Spiegle
Thomas Sterin
David Stone
Sourballpython Studios
Janeen Taylor
Thermo-Rite Manufacturing, Inc. & Star-Fire Distributors
Karen Thomas
Jessica Toy
Triad Metals International
David Trower
Karen Trower
Ultra Tech Industries
Unilock Ohio
Michael Vaughn-Cherubin
Jodi Wallace
Virgil Wallace
Robert Wallace
Cher Wallroff
Connie Waxman
Neil Weinberger
Michele Weinstein
Ilana Weisberg
Jennifer & Arthur Weisman
Steven Wilensky
Thalia Wilson
Carol Wolf
Andria & Darrell Young
Ronna & Robert Zelwin
Noah Zimmerman
Jill & Jeffrey Zimon
Maxene Zion
IRWIN WEINBERG CHILDRENS
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Irwin Weinberg
– IHO Rick German
ISENSTADT SPECIAL NEEDS
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
IMO Fred Isenstadt
JEWISH LIFE & LEARNING
Adi & Judith Gerblich
Oheb Zedek Cedar Sinai
Synagogue
– IHO Sara Hurand
JOSEPH PAYNER MEMORIAL FUND
Janie & Jerry Payner
– IMO Rickey Tanno
The Straus & Reitman Families
– IHO Suzanne Fox & Jeff Cromar
LUNCH PLUS
Morton Cohen
Alice Jennings
– IMO Donel K. Davis
Maxine Karns
– IHO Babe Goldstein
MACCABI YOUTH GAMES
David Gross
Gross & Co. Inc.
Gregory & Shelley Milin Marcus
Philanthropic Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
Abbey & Michael Guggenheim
Michael & Marci Moses Family
Philanthropic Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
Laurie & Rob Marks
Richard Pearlstein
Shani & Scott Spiegle
Nada Steffy
Jill & Mike Stovsky
MANDEL RENOVATION
The Hershey Foundation
David B. Orlean Philanthropic
Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
Rozalina & Bennett Rubin
Evie & Gordon Safran
Adrienne & Harvey Siegel
MAYER HABER FUND
Mayer-Haber JCC Endowment
Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
NANCI FEINER MEMORIAL FUND
Jackie Derrow & Steve Kutnick
– IHO of Susie Kornbluth
Irwin & Susie Kornbluth
PLAY AT THE J
Accrinet Corporation
African Safari Wildlife Park
Alson Jewelers
Amy’s Shoes
The Adcom Group
Anshe Chesed Fairmount Temple
Anonymous
Ark Jewelers
Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.
Deborah & Harry Ackerman
Janice & Mitchell Adell
Trish & Mark Adler
Michael Axel
Babbush Family
BBYO
Beaches & Dreams Travel Co.
Jennie & Ben Becker
Elaine Bercu
Laura & Erol Beytas
Alina & Prasad Bodas
Michelle & Mark Bogomolny
Susan & Daniel Borison
Jim Breen
Brennan Heating & Cooling
Brighton Collectibles
Buckeye Medical Supply
Ashleigh Buhr
Susan & Daniel Borison
Jim Breen
Susan Cahn
Camp America
Jill & Gary Cappy
Linda Cassara
Reneé & Kerry Chelm
Cleveland Browns
Cleveland Chop
Cleveland Metro Parks
Cleveland Museum of Art
Cleveland Orchestra
Cohen & Co.
Coit Cleaning & Restoration
Nan Cohen & Dan Abrams
Ellen Cohn
CT Consultants
Jay Costantini
Crystal Clear Building Services
The Davis Frayman Financial Group of Raymond James
Jessica Davidson
Elizabeth Dery
Myrna & Rick Diamond
District
Deedra Dolin
Patra Duangjak
Edward & Roslyn Kowit
Philanthropic Fund
Susan & Robert Englander
Environmental Well-Being on Aging
The Eppinger/Modugno Fund
Eveready Printing Inc.
Ken Evers
Michele Faeges
Traci E. Felder
Maureen Fertig
Empire Paving
Fabo Architecture, Inc.
Arlene & Philip Fine
Fish Furniture Shops
LuAnne & Ronald Fisher
Mary Ann & Brent Fletcher
Force Sports
Char & Chuck Fowler
Joel Fox
Barbara Franklin
Freeway Lanes
Marc Freimuth
Lynne & Norm Friedman
Sharon Friedman
Friends of Jewish Lifelong Learning
Geauga Growth Partnership Inc.
Mike Gellott
Adi & Judith Gerblich
Giant Eagle, Inc.
Nancy Glick
Adrienne Goldberg
Susan & Bernard Goodman
David Goodman
Michelle Gordon
Alvin L. Gray
Lottie Gray
Kitty Greenberg
William Grodin
Barbara Gross & Terrence Pollack
Nan & Stan Grossman
Amy Handel
Anita & William Heller
Daryn Herman
Karen & Marty Hiller
Stephen Hoffman
Robin Hollander
Huntington Bank
HW & Co.
Susan & Michael Hyman
Taryn & Andy Isaacs
Judy & Don Jacobson
Marlyn & Ari Jaffe
Jack’s Deli and Restaurant
Kim Joseph
Roseanne & Michael Kadis
Kathryn Kaesberg
William Kahn
Laura Kingsley Hong
Robert A. Immerman
James & Susan Ratner Family Foundation
Jewish National Fund
Susan Klarreich
Scott Klukas
Jennifer & Randy Korach
Irene & Richard Kretch
Lynn & Ira Krumholz
Jill Kwait
Carol & Todd Kwait
Elayne & Bob Kwait
Marvin Lader
Lake County Captains
Lake Erie Monsters
Sandy & Steve Laserson
Laurel School
Karen & Lee Lazar
Kathy & David Leb
Legacy Construction Services, LLC
Legacy Village
Leonard, Lillian, Faye, Albert B. &
Audrey G. Ratner Donor Advised Fund
Nancy & Adam Levin
Leslie & Ken Levine
Karen & Ira Levinsky
Stanley Levy
Shelly & Scott Lewis
Ken Liffman
Jamie & Ben Light
Live Nation
Larry Mack
Rochelle & Harley Gross
Philanthropic Fund of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland
Joyce Rothschild & Daniel Mansoor
Shelley & Greg Marcus
Lois and Martin Marcus
Ronda Marcus
Gayle and Jeff Marks
Bonnie & Daniel Marks
Robert Mattlin
Medical Mutual of Ohio
Nora Singer & Marc Melamed
Menorah Park
Darby & Jon Miller Steiger
Jan Mitchell
Tracy Mitchell
Mitchell’s Ice Cream
Marvin Montgomery
Meyers, Roman, Friedberg & Lewis
Janisse Nagel & Ken Marblestone
Moxie
New York Community Bancorp, Inc.
Mark Neyman
Anat & Saul Nurko
Sue & Jim Ohneck
Jill Okun
Paganini
Party 411
Pam Benjamin Borenstein
Alan Pearlman
Penni & Stephen Weinberg Fund
Michael Penzer
Bernard & Heidi Perla
Shari & Michael Perlmuter
Perspectus Architecture LLC
Barbara & Michael Peterman
Allison & Scott Peterson
Pollak Food Distributors
Cindy & Keith Polster
Cyndi & Rob Port
Debra & Don Posner
Precious Cargo Transportation Inc.
Jill Pupa
Haleigh Raff
Red Maple Inn
Lyle Reed
Repros, Inc.
Jamie & Jeff Rindsberg
Rick Ritt – Snow Bros. Applicance
Beth & Brian Robbins
Rabbi Daniel Roberts & Elaine Rembrandt
Mikki & Michael Rocker
Becky & David Rocker
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum
Sharon & Bruce Rosenbaum
Enid & David Rosenberg
Judith Rosenthal
Heather Ross-Lowenstein & Irwin Lowenstein
Kelly & Gil Rubanenko
Rozalina & Bennett Rubin
Salli & Alan Rutsky
Aliki & Peter Rzepka
RSM
Neil Safran
Sara Sager
Ofelia Bernstein & Jim Samuels
Security Voice, Inc.
Stephen Schlein
Diane & Harvey Scholnick
Lisa & Bill Schonberg
Shaker Auto Lease
Wendi Shapera
Jane Sherwin
Eileen Semel
Jessica & Alan Semel
Bev Shankman
Elisabeth & Bradley Sherman
Toby & Jay Siegel
Adrienne & Harvey Siegel
Margaret Singerman
Lori & Rick Sonkin
Sosin Law LLC
Shani & Scott Spiegle
State Farm Insurance Co.
Karen Steiger
Cheryl Stern
Thomas Stone
Peggy Sugerman
Jan & Will Sukenik
Cara and Matt Sulzer
Tastebuds Food Service
Alexander Taylor
Jeanne & Jordan Tobin
Thomas Tobin
Kate Toohig
Unique Systems, Inc. (Aktion Associates)
University Hospitals Ahuja
Medical Center
Roger Vaccariello
Drs. Miriam Vishny & Mark Cohen
Heng Wang
Joni Wasserman
Peggy & Phil Wasserstrom
Muriel Weber
Weinberg Wealth Management, LLC
Beth Weiner
Sharon Weinstein
Jennifer & Arthur Weisman
Sally & Stanley Wertheim
Where I’m From
Sheila Wolf
Sandy & Tim Wuliger
Alan Yanowitz
Andria & Darrell Young
Darrell A. Young Enterprises
Rich Zatta
Paula Zeisler
Nancy & Rob Zimmerman
Arlyne Zitron
Frann Zverina
PLAYMAKERS YOUTH THEATRE
Leona Green
Ohio Arts Council
SENIOR ADULT SERVICES
Angelina Foti
Shelly Friedman
Bobbie Jennings, Michael &
Debra Jennings, & Yosif
Simiryan
– IMO Eldeen Scolari
Mandel JCC Kids Club
Barbra Schwartz
SHERI & DAVID GROSS FAMILY
PLAYMAKERS FUND
Laurie Gross-Kammer & Rick Kammer
Sally & Howard Kramer
– IHO Sophie Kramer
SING INTO SPRING
Liana & David Abraham
Andrea & Eric Adler
African Safari Wildlife Tours
Akron Children’s Museum
Allergy Immunology Associates, Inc.
Alex N. Sill Company
All City Candy
Ankle Biters Improv Applebee’s
Eli Bar & Ken Chow
Shelley & Michael Bloomfield
Alina & Prasad Bodas
Lindsay & David Brigati
Bruegger’s Bagels
John Carlson
Cheesecake Factory
Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh
Choolaah
CLE Clothing
Cleveland Metroparks
Corky & Lenny’s
Corner Alley
COSI
Cuts and Curls
Ceci Dadisman & James Zink
Matthew & Carly Day
Dazzle
Dewey’s
Dino Palmieri Salon and Spa
East Coast Original Frozen Custard
Danielle & Jonathan Eisenberg
Gil Even & Alla Greenberg
First Flips party
Freeway Lanes
Shalmoli & Joseph Frese
Hannah & Joshua Gendelman
Jessica Gilway & Michael Gelbart
Gervasi Vineyard
Jacqueline & Michael Goler
Robyn Gordon & Ron Turney
Kelly & Jeff Goshe
Jennifer & Robert Gourley
Graeter’s Ice Cream
Hands On Pottery Studio
Heinen’s
Gwen & Josh Herman
Emily Hoffman & Eric Weingart
Intercontinental Hotel
J. Pistone
Danny Jacob
Lindsay & Simon Johnson
Johnny’s
Jump Start Gymnastics
Drew Kate
Zanna Kaznelson
Kings Island
Carmen & Arun Kottha
La Coiffe Salon & Spa
Michelle & Richard Lawther
Legacy Village (Change for Charity)
Stephanie & Joshua Levin
Bethamie & Brett Levy
Yue Yuan & Jess Levy
Rachel & Luke Lindberg
Little Monogram Shop
Live Nation
Natasha & Yaro Livits
Lockkeepers
Pamela Lower Realtor
Make Believe Family Fun Center
Mandel Jewish Community Center
Melting Pot Restaurant
Memphis Kiddie Park
Metropolitan at the 9
Metropolitan Market
Lindsay & Jason Miller
Jori & Lowell Mintz
Moxie/Red The Steakhouse
Mulholland & Sachs
Music Box Supper Club
Nanny Connection
Nervous Dog Coffee Bar
Rachel Newman
Ohio City Burrito Paladar
Patterson Fruit Farm
Amy & Carl Persson
Allison & Scott Peterson
Phoenix Coffee
Photography by HDS
Play Arcade & Kitchen
Playground World
Abigail & Carl Plumb-Larrick
Pour
Denise Pritchett
Puff ‘N Stuff
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and
Museum
Room 7
Rube Adler Sports
Sanity Chagrin Falls
Senders Pediatrics
Shirin Rastgoufard & Peter Psarras
Erin & Scott Shuller
Amy & Davis Shumaker
Betsy & Brent Silver
Society Lounge
Jenya & Ivan Soprunov
Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens
Studio CK
Cara & Matt Sulzer
Swings-n-Things
Table 45
The Burnham
Town Hall
Jennell Vick & Greg Lee
Vintage Ohio (Ohio Wine Producer’s Association)
Walt Disney World
Yuxin Wang & Su He
Jing & Steve Wang
Yajuan Wang & Tingwei Mu
Elizabeth Weinstein & Jason Confino
Sarah & Ben Weiss
Whole Foods
Sasha & Scott Yasinow
Young Chefs Academy
Bonnie & Larry Zeichner
Natalia Zorkin
SPECIAL NEEDS CAMP
Cleveland Automobile Club
Orphans Outing Fund
The Morshana Foundation
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
MANDEL JCC
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
OFFICERS
2016 – 2017
Alan Semel
Chair
Mindy Davidson Vice Chair
Keith Polster
Vice Chair
Bennett Rubin Vice Chair
Harvey Siegel
Vice Chair
Neil Tramer
Treasurer
William Schonberg
Secretary
Jamie Light
Assistant Secretary
Greg Marcus
Assistant Secretary
MANDEL JCC
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
2016 – 2017
Mark Adler
Stephen Bassett
Ben Becker
Alina Bodas
Mark Bogomolny
Susan Borison
Loren Chylla
Lottie Gray
Ira Krumholz
Sandy Laserson
Leslie Levine
Stan Levy
Shelly Lewis
Dan Mansoor
Robert Marks
Rick Mitchell
David Orlean
Heidi Perla
Allison Peterson
Rob Port
Mila Rekhson
Beth Robbins
Matthew Rosner
Jeremy Sosin
Scott Spiegle
Darby Steiger
Michael Ungar
NOMINATED TO SECOND 3-YEAR TERM ENDING 2020
Mark Bogomolny
Mindy Davidson
Robert Marks
Rick Mitchell
Allison Peterson
Bennett Rubin
Alan Semel
Neil Tramer
NOMINATED TO FIRST 3-YEAR TERM ENDING 2020
Brett Krantz
Cheri Shapero
NOMINATED FOR RE-ELECTION TO FIRST 3-YEAR TERM ENDING 2020
Ira Krumholz
NOMINATED FOR RE-ELECTION TO ONE-YEAR TERM ENDING 2018
Jeremy Sosin
SPECIAL TRUSTEES TERM ENDING 2018
Anat Nurko
HONORARY TRUSTEE FOR LIFE
William Schonberg
NOMINATED TO SERVE AS OFFICERS 2017-2018
Alan Semel Chair
Mindy Davidson 1st Vice Chair
Greg Marcus Vice Chair
Keith Polster Vice Chair
Bennett Rubin Vice Chair
Neil Tramer
Treasurer
Rick Mitchell
Secretary
Jamie Light
Assistant Secretary
Scott Spiegle
Assistant Secretary
2017/2018
MANDEL JCC LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT & NOMINATING COMMITTEE
Arthur Weisman
Chair
Alan Semel
Board Chair
Susan Borison
Mindy Davidson
Sandy Laserson
Greg Marcus
Rick Mitchell
Keith Polster
Enid Rosenberg
Matthew Rosner
Michael Ungar
Miram Vishny
PAST PRESIDENTS
Hilda Faigin*
Marc Freimuth
Max R. Friedman*
George Goulder*
Alvin Gray
Brent Grover
David B. Guralnik*
Myron Guren*
Harold L. Klarreich*
Julie Kravitz*
Earl Leiken
Morton Mandel
Michael Peterman
Enid Rosenberg
Peter Rzepka
Gordon Safran
Ernie Siegler*
Jeanne Tobin
Peggy Wasserstrom
Arthur A. Weisman
Darrell A. Young
MANDEL JCC
2016-2017
STANDING COMMITTEES
Arts & Culture
Katie Shames, Chair
Audit
Neil Tramer, Chair
Camp Wise
Rob Port, Chair
Cleveland Jewish Book Festival
Eliana LeVine & Darby Steiger, Co-Chairs
Cleveland Jewish Film Festival
Anat Nurko & Cathy Stamler, Co-Chairs
Day Camping
Matthew Rosner, Chair
Early Childhood
Allison Peterson, Chair
Executive
Alan Semel, Chair
Fitness, Wellness and Recreation
Bennett Rubin, Chair
Facilities Planning & Development
Darrell Young, Chair
Finance
Neil Tramer, Chair
Fund Development
Mark Adler, Chair
Jewish Life and Culture
Susan Borison, Chair
Leadership Development & Nominating
Arthur Weisman, Chair
Playmakers
Jamie Light, Chair
Security
William Schonberg, Chair
Technology
* of blessed memory
Robert Marks, Chair
STAFF
MANDEL JCC EXECUTIVE STAFF
2016-2017
Michael G. Hyman, President & CEO
Deborah Ackerman, Vice President, Finance
Traci E. Felder, Vice President, Fund Development
Debra Posner, Vice President, Membership & Marketing
Gil Rubanenko, Vice President, Operations
MANDEL JCC MANAGEMENT STAFF
2016-2017
Liza Adams, Early Childhood Program Supervisor
Janice Adell, Executive Assistant
Perry Battaglia, Facilities Engineer
Deborah Bobrow, Director, Arts & Culture
Scott Dann, Director, Finance
Jill Davidson, System Analyst/Database Administrator
Rachel Felber, Director, Camp Wise
Brent Fletcher, Director, Security & Facilities
Nick Goldman, Assistant Director, Camp Wise
Jon Hausman, Program Director, Camp Wise
Bria Heifetz, Assistant Director, Children, Youth & Teen Services
Abbey Henkin, Day Camp Assistant Director & Anisfield Site Director
Sara Hodgson, Director, Human Resources
Abby Kaufman, Assistant Director, Camp Wise
Jake Krider, Manager, Membership
Joan Morgenstern, Director, Early Childhood Services
Yolanda Nixon, Lunch Plus Supervisor
Lyle Reed, Manager, Aquatics
Becky Rocker, Manager, Marketing
Aaron Tevlowitz, Director, Children & Day Camping Services
Kate Toohig, Director, Fitness, Wellness & Recreation
Rachel Zake, Director, Playmakers
Rich Zatta, Manager, Fitness & Personal Training
Nancy Zimmerman, Director, Jewish Life & Culture
OUR MISSION
The Mandel Jewish Community Center of Cleveland builds, connects and strengthens our Jewish community and the greater Cleveland community through exceptional life-long programs and services that reflect the richness of Jewish life and enhance physical, intellectual and spiritual well-being.
CORE VALUES OF THE MANDEL JCC
PURSUIT OF EXCELLENCE
The Mandel JCC strives for excellence by hiring and developing outstanding staff, maintaining state-of-the-art facilities and providing the highest quality programs and services to our members and the community. Excellence is realized through continuous improvement, exceeding expectations & inspiring innovation.
JEWISH EXPERIENCE
The Mandel JCC instills Jewish values, ethics and traditions into all of our programs and services in order to enhance Jewish continuity and identity. Our members, staff and the community are enriched and inspired to connect with and be part of Jewish life.
WELCOMING ENVIRONMENT
The Mandel JCC is a place where everyone is treated in a warm, respectful and friendly manner. Within our inviting atmosphere people make connections, build friendships and feel involved in our community.
WELLNESS
The Mandel JCC provides integrated programs and services for our members and employees to help them achieve optimal well-being and a high quality of life.