Edlavitch DCJCC Fall 2019 Journal

FALL 2019 AT THE (newly renovated!)

EDLAVITCH DCJCC

EDCJCC.ORG

#WHEREYOUHAPPEN

EDLAVITCH DC JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

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SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • Hunger Action, p. 10

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SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • Handmade for the Homeless, p. 10

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9 11 13 15

16 17 18 19

20 22

25 26 27

29 30

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THEATER J • Love Sick (Through September 29), p. 6

FAMILY ENGAGEMENT • After School Starts (Through December 20), p. 17

ENTRYPOINTDC • 30-Somethings: Happy Hour, Love Sick, & Talkback, p. 12

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SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • Families Serving Together: Anacostia River Clean-Up, p. 10 SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • Queer Youth Homelessness: Casa Ruby Building Project, p. 10

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ENTRYPOINTDC • Deadline for Shabbat Clusters Round One Registration, p. 13

INCLUSION • Game Night, p. 14

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • The Food We Choose, p. 10

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ENTRYPOINTDC • Deadline for Rosh Hashanah High Holiday Tickets, p. 12

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PARENTING • Growing Your Career While Growing Your Family, p. 18 JEWISH LIFE • Israeli Elections: What Happens Next?, p.15

25 27

ENTRYPOINTDC • Shabbat Clusters Kick-Off Dinner, p.13 JxJ • The Tobacconist (Through September 26), p. 8

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FAMILY ENGAGEMENT • Day of Awesome: Family Concert and Celebration, p. 16 PARENTING • Nested’s Childbirth Education Boot Camp, p. 18

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INCLUSION • Social Bowling Power Hour, p. 14

JEWISH LIFE • Rosh Hashanah with Honey & Co., p.15

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JxJ • Tel Aviv on Fire (Through October 6), p. 8

INCLUSION • Spirit Club Fitness (Through December 22), p.14 ENTRYPOINTDC • Deadline for Yom Kippur High Holiday Tickets, p. 12

ENTRYPOINTDC • Loving Our Survivors: A New Years Challah Bake Party, p. 12 JxJ • The Stolen Princess: Ruslan and Ludmila, p. 9 JxJ • Jewish Identity Through Film, p. 9 INCLUSION • Artstream Drama and Storytelling, p. 14 SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • Hunger Action, p. 10 INCLUSION • Game Night, p. 14

JEWISH LIFE • Community Sukkah Build and Celebration, p. 15 JxJ • Jewish Identity Through Film, p. 9

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • Handmade for the Homeless, p. 10 SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • Families Serving Together: “Soupkot” Program, p. 11 INCLUSION • Artstream Drama and Storytelling, p. 14 JxJ • Jewish Identity Through Film, p. 9 INCLUSION • Social Bowling Power Hour, p. 14

THEATER J • Classes for Theater Lovers (Through November 21), p. 7 JxJ • Chasing Portraits (Through October 31), p. 8

PARENTING • Nested’s Childbirth Education Boot Camp, p. 18 JxJ • Jewish Identity Through Film, p. 9

JEWISH LIFE • Hebrew Classes (Through December 18), p. 15 PARENTING • Beyond the Bump (Through December 2), p. 19 ENTRYPOINTDC • 30-Somethings: Breaths and Brews - New Year Meditations, p. 12 JEWISH LIFE • Introduction to Judaism (Through December 17), p. 15 SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • Blood Drive, p. 11 JEWISH LIFE • Love & Religion: An Interfaith Workshop for Jews and Their Partners (Through November 21), p. 15 PARENTING • Parenting Coffee: Gentle Sleep Secrets for Newborns, p. 19

Our Parenting Center offers classes for parents, parentsto-be, and those hoping to become parents.

Find the class that’s right for you on pages 18 and 19.

Celebrate the High Holidays with the EDCJCC! Look for the “apples and honey” symbol identifying holiday programs.

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CALENDAR—FALL 2019 NOVEMBER 1

JxJ • Fig Tree (Through November 14), p. 8

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INCLUSION • Game Night, p. 14

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13 15 17

18 20 24

ONGOING FAMILY ENGAGEMENT • JFamily Ambassadors, p.17

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • Hunger Action, p.10 JxJ • Klezmer Brunch with Seth Kibel, p. 9 INCLUSION • Artstream Drama and Storytelling, p. 14 JxJ • Jewish Identity Through Film, p. 9 PARENTING • Toilet Training Without Tears: Avoiding the Perils of the Potty, p. 19 THEATER J • Edward Albee’s Occupant (Through December 8), p. 7

ENTRYPOINTDC • 30-Somethings: Sip & Paint Night with Our Inclusion Community, p. 13 INCLUSION • Paint Night, p. 14 SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • DC Politics: Who’s Who in Social Change, p. 11

Our fully renovated Fitness Center is open for business!

Join in the month of September and pay no registration fee! More info on page 5.

PARENTING • Adoption: Starting the Process, p. 19 JxJ • Jewish Identity Through Film, p. 9 JxJ • 40 Years of Filmmaking: An Aviva Kempner Retrospective (Through November 23), p. 9

PARENTING • Nested’s Childbirth Education Boot Camp, p. 18 SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • Handmade for the Homeless, p. 10 INCLUSION • Artstream Drama and Storytelling, p. 14 SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • Birthday Bash with Community of Hope, p. 11 JxJ • Jewish Identity Through Film, p. 9 THEATER J • Theater J Annual Benefit, p. 7

ENTRYPOINTDC • Jewrotica: Bedside Reading, p. 13 INCLUSION • Social Bowling Power Hour, p. 14

Everything But The Turkey provides thousands of Thanksgiving side dishes for those in need in DC. Learn more on page 11.

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY • 23rd Annual Everything But The Turkey (Through November 26), p. 11 FAMILY ENGAGEMENT • Everything But The Turkey: PJ Library Edition, p. 17 ENTRYPOINTDC • Everything But The Turkey: Young Professionals Edition, p. 13

Find your #shabbatsquad at Shabbat Clusters - informal potluck style dinners with other Jewish young adults in their 20s and 30s. Check out the full listing on page 13.

FIG TREE

JxJ’s line-up of fall programs, which take place in the new, state-of-the-art Cafritz Hall, is on pages 8 and 9 – check it out now, and purchase tickets today!

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Classes have begun in our new group exercise studio!

We’re excited to restart some of our most popular classes – like Strength & Stretch, Body Pump, and Yoga – as well as feature new ones such as Les Mills®, Zumba, Cardio Sculpt, and Pilates.

FULLY RENOVATED FITNESS CENTER | BRAND NEW EQUIPMENT INDOOR POOL | PERSONAL TRAINING | DEDICATED GROUP EXERCISE SPACES NEW ACCESSIBLE LOCKER ROOMS | AND MORE!

EDLAVITCH DCJCC FITNESS CENTER JOIN IN SEPTEMBER AND PAY NO REGISTRATION FEE!

Take advantage of discounts for seniors, young professionals, and students – come try us out with a free one-day pass!

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FITNESS

EDCJCC.ORG/FITNESS

Ongoing

FITNESS MEMBERSHIP TOURS Come see the new facilities!

We’re offering daily visits in the morning and afternoon for current, renewing, and prospective members. Meet with membership staff and learn about all that the Edlavitch DCJCC has to offer.

To schedule a tour, visit edcjcc.org/membershiptours

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THEATER J THEATERJ.ORG

Mirele Efros (Valerie Leonard) and her sons and daughter-in-law (L-R: Christopher Warren, Healy Knight, Charlie Trepany) in Theater J’s production of The Jewish Queen Lear. Photo C. Stanley Photography.

September 4 — 29

LOVE SICK

Written and adapted by Ofra Daniel Music by Ofra Daniel and Lior Ben-Hur Directed by Christopher Renshaw Choreographed by Matt Cole Music Direction by Ali Paris A PASSIONATE NEW MUSICAL

From an extraordinary collaboration of international artists comes Love Sick, the critically-acclaimed new musical that fuses a thrilling original score, Middle-Eastern harmonics, dazzling choreography, and an inspired story of passion and awakening. Based on the Song of Songs, Love Sick tells the story of a young wife in a lifeless marriage who discovers she has a secret admirer.

Intrigued, she begins a mysterious and dizzying journey of sexual and personal empowerment.

“Extraordinary…lush…full of surprises.”

—San Francisco Chronicle

THEATER J 19/20 SEASON: WELCOME HOME

Subscribe now to secure the best prices, seats, and enticing benefits!

Visit theaterj.org or contact the Ticket Office at 202-777-3210 today.

Illustrations by Donald Ely.

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Tuesdays, October 24 – November 21, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM

CLASSES FOR THEATER LOVERS - BEHIND THE SCENES: DESIGNING SHELTERED

Explore all the elements that go into making a theater production. This class will forever change how you see theater, as you learn about the work of scenic, costume, lighting, and sound designers— and even try out your hand as a designer in our in weekly projects.

Taught by Artistic Director Adam Immerwahr

Monday, November 18, 6:30 PM

THEATER J ANNUAL BENEFIT

November 7 — ­ December 8

EDWARD ALBEE’S OCCUPANT Directed by Aaron Posner

A MASTERFUL TRIBUTE TO SCULPTOR LOUISE NEVELSON

Facts are in dispute and words are in question in this late-career masterpiece by multiple Pulitzer Prize-winner Edward Albee (Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf, A Delicate Balance). A little Jewish girl from Russia immigrated to the US and became the renowned sculptor, Louise Nevelson. Starring audience-favorite Susan Rome, this surprising, touching, and delicious play is an unabashed exploration of how a pioneer for freethinking women everywhere found her voice.

The play “bows its head in awe and gratitude before the mysterious force of will that allows great artists to be.” —The New York Times 7

Join us for an unforgettable night, featuring a special musical performance of After Anatevka: a Novel Based on “Fiddler on the Roof” written and performed by Grammy-nominated artist and author Alexandra Silber.

With new songs composed by some of the top rising talent in musical theater today and performed by the extraordinarilygifted Silber, this evening promises to be something to sing about.

For more information, including sponsorship opportunities, contact Jojo Ruf, Managing Director, at jojo@theaterj.org.

JxJ

WASHINGTON JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL WASHINGTON JEWISH MUSIC FESTIVAL JxJDC.ORG

Starting this fall, JxJ will move to the new Cafritz Hall and present a vibrant mix of week-long theatrical runs alongside one-off special events with leading industry talent. JxJ will also present musical performances including local acts and the return of Klezmer Brunch!

For more information and for a full list of show times visit JxJdc.org!

FULL THEATRICAL RUNS: 6+ SHOWINGS DURING THE WEEK!

September 20 – 26

September 27 – October 6

A tender tale of a young man’s friendship with Sigmund Freud (Bruno Ganz) in Nazi occupied Vienna.

Encore performances of JxJ’s sold-out Closing Night film.

A comedy about a Palestinian soap opera writer who sees his career take off after a chance meeting with an Israeli soldier—until disagreements arise over the ending.

October 25 – 31

November 1 – 14

An American woman’s emotional quest to find the art of her Polish-Jewish great-grandfather, lost during World War II.

US THEATRICAL PREMIERE

THE TOBACCONIST

CHASING PORTRAITS

Filmmaker Elizabeth Rynecki in person at select screenings.

TEL AVIV ON FIRE

FIG TREE

During the Ethiopian civil war, a Jewish teenager hatches a scheme to keep her Christian boyfriend from being drafted, as she and her family prepare to flee the country and go to Israel.

Filmmaker Aäläm-Wärqe Davidian in person at select screenings.

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FILM RETROSPECTIVE

SPECIAL SCREENING: ONE TIME ONLY!

Sunday, October 6, 12:00 PM

November 15 – 23

A beautifully animated film for the whole family, The Stolen Princess tells the story of an artist who falls in love with the king’s daughter, only to have her abducted by the evil wizard Chornomor.

Join us to celebrate local documentary master Aviva Kempner’s 40-year career. We examine her essential film catalog with a full retrospective: The Spy Behind Home Plate, Rosenwald, Yoo-Hoo, Mrs. Goldberg, Today I Vote for My Joey, The Life and Times of Hank Greenberg, and Partisans of Vilna.

THE STOLEN PRINCESS: RUSLAN AND LUDMILA

Ukrainian with English subtitles.

40 YEARS OF FILMMAKING: An Aviva Kempner Retrospective

Sundays, October 6 — November 17

JEWISH IDENTITY THROUGH FILM: Screenings and Dialogues led by Professor Amitai Etzioni

Sunday, November 3, 11:00 AM

George Washington professor of International Relations Amitai Etzioni uses film to explore a range of perspectives on the legacy of the Shoah, the Eastern European Jewish experience, the Zionist project, the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, the role of women in Orthodox society, and more.

KLEZMER BRUNCH WITH SETH KIBEL

Our popular Klezmer brunch returns!

Enjoy fantastic music paired with a delicious kosher buffet. A wonderful event for the whole family.

After each screening, Professor Etzioni will lead an audience dialogue. Drop in for one, or see as many as you like!

Seth Kibel and his band have been combining traditional Eastern European/Jewish music with diverse influences for over a decade and combine traditional melodies and with original songs and innovative arrangements.

Tickets are Pay-What-You-Choose.

October 6, 3:00 PM October 13, 3:00 PM October 20, 2:30 PM October 27, 3:00 PM November 3, 3:00 PM November 10, 3:00 PM

Sarah’s Key Ida Sunshine The Attack In the Land of Pomegranates Gett: The Trial of Viviane Amsalem November 17, 3:00 PM Exodus (first half only)

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MORRIS CAFRITZ CENTER FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY EDCJCC.ORG/VOLUNTEER

Sundays, September 1, October 6, and November 3, 8:45 AM – 12:00 PM

HUNGER ACTION DC CENTRAL KITCHEN

Volunteers meet at DC Central Kitchen to prepare food for those most in need in our community.

Sundays, September 8, October 20, and November 17, 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM

HANDMADE FOR THE HOMELESS

Join fellow knitters and crocheters to make handmade goodies for a great cause. All levels welcome. Don’t know how to knit? We’ll teach you!

Sunday, September 15, 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM

FAMILIES SERVING TOGETHER: ANACOSTIA RIVER CLEAN-UP KINGMAN ISLAND

Spend the morning on Kingman Island cleaning up trash to make it safer for all to enjoy, then take a boat tour of the Anacostia River with the Anacostia Riverkeeper to learn more about the river and the communities on its banks.

Sunday, September 15, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

QUEER YOUTH HOMELESSNESS: CASA RUBY BUILDING PROJECT CASA RUBY

Join Behrend Builders at Casa Ruby – the only bilingual, multicultural, organization providing life-saving services and programs to DC’s LGBTQ youth – to participate in a painting and beautification project.

Co-presented with GLOE — the Kurlander Program for GLBTQ Outreach and Engagement at the Edlavitch DCJCC. 10

Tuesday, September 17, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

THE FOOD WE CHOOSE

Ways to lead more sustainable, environmentally conscious lives are limitless, but something as simple as the food we eat can make a huge impact.

Join us to learn from local experts about how our food choices directly impact the earth. Come hungry!

This evening will feature dinner that showcases the diversity of DC’s vegan cuisine, a cooking demo, and a raffle for some beautiful cookbooks to use for your Jewish holiday celebrations.

In partnership with Avodah: The Jewish Service Corps, Interfaith Power and Light, and Sixth & I.

Ongoing, Monday – Friday, 10:30 AM – 2:00 PM

BEHREND-ADAS SENIOR FELLOWSHIP DAILY LUNCH AND SOCIAL PROGRAM ADAS ISRAEL CONGREGATION

This daily program features a kosher lunch, social programs, experts on a variety of topics, and a brief Friday Shabbat Service. No need to RSVP. Open to all DC residents ages 60+. All are welcome regardless of background or affiliation.

Questions? Email vivianh@edcjcc.org.

Sunday, October 20, 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM

FAMILIES SERVING TOGETHER: “SOUPKOT” EDITION

Join other families to create instant soup kits for folks experiencing food insecurity in the District and to learn about the holiday of Sukkot.

Tuesday, November 12, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

DC POLITICS: WHO’S WHO IN SOCIAL CHANGE

DC politics come with all the drama and intrigue of an eposide of The West Wing, but do you know the full cast of characters and who holds all the power? Come out to learn what ANCs are, how the Mayor and the City Council work together, and how we as activists can access DC’s political system with the greatest potential for social change.

In partnership with Avodah: The Jewish Service Corps and Jews United for Justice.

Sunday, November 17, 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM

BIRTHDAY BASH WITH COMMUNITY OF HOPE

Tuesday, October 29, 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM

BLOOD DRIVE

THE TRIUMPH FAMILY SHELTER

Every 17 seconds, someone in the DC metro area needs a blood donation. One out of every 10 people will need a blood donation before the age of 70. Help us replenish blood reserve in the DC metro area by donating blood.

Join us at The Triumph, a family shelter in Southeast DC, for a community birthday party. Festivities will include cupcakes, games, and arts and crafts to celebrate all of the November birthdays!

In partnership with Inova Blood Services.

November 24-26

23RD ANNUAL EVERYTHING BUT THE TURKEY

Join hundreds of volunteers over three days to prepare thousands of Thanksgiving meals for those in need at local community kitchens, transitional housing facilities, and homeless shelters.

In partnership with DC Central Kitchen. Contact Sonya Weisburd at sonyaw@edcjcc.org to learn about sponsorship opportunities.

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ENTRYPOINTDC EDCJCC.ORG/EPDC

Connecting Jewish adults in their 20s and 30s.

PROGRAMS FOR 30-SOMETHINGS

Wednesday, September 11, 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM Registration Deadline: Rosh Hashanah – September 18, Yom Kippur – September 30

DISCOUNTED HIGH HOLIDAY TICKETS

EntryPointDC has arranged for discounted and free High Holiday tickets for young professionals from congregations across DC, Maryland, and Virginia. We’ll help you find the service that’s right for you!

HAPPY HOUR, LOVE SICK, & TALKBACK

Join us for drinks and then head over to the EDCJCC to catch a performance of Theater J’s new musical Love Sick. The critically acclaimed new musical fuses an original and thrilling Middle-Eastern score with an inspired story of passion and awakening. After the production, stay for a talkback with Theater J Artistic Director Adam Immerwahr. Read more about Love Sick on page 6.

Tuesday, October 29, 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM

BREATHS AND BREWS – NEW YEAR MEDITATIONS

It has been a month since the Jewish New Year started! Take time to reflect with a free guided meditation class from Glow Club DC and a beer tasting with SixPoint craft brewing company all while getting to know other 30-somethings.

Sunday, October 6, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

LOVING OUR SURVIVORS: A NEW YEARS CHALLAH BAKE PARTY

Help EntryPointDC & 3GDC – Washington DC Grandchildren of Holocaust Survivors – celebrate the Jewish New Year with local Holocaust survivors. Braid and bake challah, enjoy snacks, play games, and mingle with our special guests.

Tuesday, November 12, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

SIP & PAINT NIGHT WITH OUR INCLUSION COMMUNITY

Grab a glass of wine at our happy hour and explore your creative side as we partner with EDCJCC Inclusion & Disabilities program participants for a paint night. We will provide all of the art supplies and our instructor will guide you every step of the way.

Co-presented with the EDCJCC Inclusion & Disabilities Program.

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Registration Deadline Round One: September 13 Kick-Off Dinner: September 20, 7:00 PM

FALL SHABBAT CLUSTERS AND SHABBAT CLUSTERS KICK-OFF DINNER

Interested in joining a community for Shabbat but don’t have a place to go? Want to meet new people in their 20s and 30s with similar interests? Sign up for Shabbat Clusters and find your #shabbatsquad!

Shabbat Clusters are groups of 15-30 people in their 20s and 30s who meet monthly for informal potluck Shabbat dinners in each other’s homes or at local restaurants all over the DC Metro Area. Shabbat Clusters have been going strong for over 10 years and in our last season, 250 young professionals registered for the program.

October 16, 5:00 PM-7:30 PM

SUKKOT COCKTAILS & JEWISH WALKING TOUR

The Capital Jewish Museum will be leading us on a tour of downtown Jewish DC. Maybe along the way we will even see some sukkahs! Join us before our walk for harvest inspired cocktails and mocktails.

Wednesday, November 20, 6:45 PM – 8:45 PM

JEWROTICA: BEDSIDE READING

Sunday, November 24, 1:00 PM – 3:30 PM

EVERYTHING BUT THE TURKEY

Give back this Thanksgiving with other young professionals by preparing side dishes for those in need. Learn more about this program on page 11.

This program is presented by the Morris Cafritz Center for Social Responsibility in partnership with DC Central Kitchen.

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We are bringing back one of our most popular Modern Jewish Love Series events. This evening features live readings from the website jewrotica.org, anonymous audience confessions, slam poetry, original stories from our community, sexy trivia, and more! The Moth meet Vagina Monologues meets 50 Shades of Oy Vey!

INCLUSION & DISABILITIES EDCJCC.ORG/INCLUSION

Individuals of all abilities are welcome to join us at any of these events. Anyone who needs support is welcome to bring a friend who will provide assistance during the program. For more information on accessibility, contact Joy Stein, Director of Inclusion and Disability Programs, at joys@edcjcc.org.

Sundays, October 6 & 20, November 3 & 17, and December 1 & 15, 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM

Tuesday, November 12, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

ARTSTREAM DRAMA AND STORYTELLING

PAINT NIGHT

These classes are designed for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and help build confidence while improving skills that are applicable in all aspects of life.

Wednesdays, September 25, October 23, and November 20, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

SOCIAL BOWLING POWER HOUR Bowlero in Bethesda

Come out for our monthly bowling night! Work on your bowling skills while enjoying pizza and social time with friends. All abilities welcome.

Are you trying to find your creative side? If so, this night is designed especially with you in mind. Learn about acrylic painting while enjoying the company of others. We’ll provide you with a canvas, easel, brushes, and paints. Our instructor will guide you every step of the way so that you leave with a completed painting. No prior experience is necessary.

Co-presented with EntryPointDC.

Mondays, September 16, October 7, and November 4, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM

GAME NIGHT

Now on Mondays! Come for a night of games, friends, and fun. We’ll have checkers, chess, and cards – but bring your favorites too! Snacks provided.

Suitable for ages 15+.

Ongoing

Sundays, September 29, October 13 & 27, November 10 & 17, and December 8 & 22, 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM

VOCATIONAL VOLUNTEERING

SPIRIT CLUB FITNESS

Build your resume and references!

The Edlavitch DCJCC is always looking for volunteers to come and help in various departments.

We create personal, consistent schedules in your area of interest or you can sign-up for opportunities that work within your schedule.

These classes focus on improving body awareness, balance, stability, flexibility, strength, and endurance, along with nutritional habits and overall healthy behaviors. Classes consist of fun and interactive exercises focusing on a specific, fitness-related theme. At the end of each class, all participants receive hand-outs with exercise instructions and nutrition tips to encourage healthy living at home.

For more information contact Joy Stein at joys@edcjcc.org or 202.777.3276.

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JEWISH LIFE AND LEARNING EDCJCC.ORG/JEWISHLIFE

Sunday, October 13, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM

COMMUNITY SUKKAH BUILD AND CELEBRATION

Help us build and decorate the EDCJCC community sukkah! We‘re looking for adult volunteers to help build the sukkah, and adults and children to make decorations. This multi-generational event will end with a l’chaim – a toast to a job well done and to welcome the holiday of Sukkot.

Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays October 28 – December 18, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

HEBREW CLASSES

We offer seven levels of conversational Hebrew, from learning the aleph bet to reading advanced literature. Our teachers are native Hebrew speakers with many years of teaching experience.

Teachers: Sarit Lisogorsky and Gila Efrati

Tuesdays, October 29 – December 17, 7:00 PM – 8:45 PM

INTRODUCTION TO JUDAISM

Come explore the rich fabric of Judaism! Using traditional texts and modern examples, we’ll cover the fundamentals of Jewish life, including Shabbat and holidays, life cycle rituals, prayer, and more.

Teacher: Miriam Szubin

Thursdays, October 31 – November 21, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM

LOVE & RELIGION: AN INTERFAITH WORKSHOP FOR JEWS AND THEIR PARTNERS

For over 20 years, our four-session workshop has been a model to guide couples in openly discussing issues they face as partners from a different background. Be part of our everexpanding interfaith community.

Facilitator: Marion Usher, Ph.D.

Thursday, September 19, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM

ISRAELI ELECTIONS: WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

Two days after Israelis vote in the second Knesset election of 2019, we’ll gather for an expert analysis of the results, featuring Israel Policy Forum’s Policy Director, Michael Koplow, and Tamara Cofman Wittes and Natan Sachs of the Brookings Institute.

In partnership with Israel Policy Forum and JCRC of Greater Washington.

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Thursday, September 26, 7:00 P – 9:00 PM

ROSH HASHANAH WITH HONEY & CO.

Can’t decide what to cook for Rosh Hashanah this year? Spruce up your holiday dinner table by joining us for an intimate cooking demo and to meet award-winning chefs Sarit Packer and Itamar Srulovich, the husband and wife team behind London’s Honey & Co. culinary empire. The evening will feature a cooking demo of two unique dishes, a tasting, Q & A session with the chefs/authors, and a book-signing.

FAMILY ENGAGEMENT EDCJCC.ORG/FAMILIES

Sunday, October 13, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM

COMMUNITY SUKKAH BUILD AND CELEBRATION

Sunday, September 22, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Help us welcome the holiday of Sukkot by building and decorating the EDCJCC community sukkah! Adult volunteers are needed to help build while children will help make decorations.

DAY OF AWESOME: FAMILY CONCERT AND CELEBRATION

Join us for a morning of free concerts, games, snacks, holiday crafts, and fun! Rock out to the music of Jason Mesches, awardwinning Jewish educator and performer, and participate in a service project benefitting local refugee families. Together, we’ll celebrate Rosh Hashanah (the Jewish New Year) in an atmosphere that welcomes everyone and caters to families.

Sponsored in memory of Elona Shaffert by the Shaffert/Brenner Family.

The Family Concert is presented by the Washington Jewish Music Festival as part of JxJ’s yearround programming. The Howard and Geraldine Polinger Family Foundation is the lead sponsor of The Washington Jewish Music Festival.

Monthly

FAMILIES SERVING TOGETHER

Every month, families come together with the Morris Cafritz Center for Social Responsibility to give back to our community and those in need. Learn about the fall Families Serving Together programs on pages 10 and 11.

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Sunday, November 24, Time to be determined

23RD ANNUAL EVERYTHING BUT THE TURKEY – PJ LIBRARY EDITION

This Thanksgiving, show your children the Jewish value of tikkun olam (repairing the world) by working together to help those facing hunger and homelessness in our community. Join PJ Library and the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington at the EDCJCC’s annual Everything But The Turkey. Learn more about this program on page 11.

Fall Session: September 9 – December 20

AFTER SCHOOL

Sign up today for camp-style After School for grades PreK-6. Students receive snacks, homework/reading time, active play, quiet room, and optional enrichment courses throughout the week, including karate, ballet, swimming, and chess.

2019/2020 PRESCHOOL ENROLLMENT OPEN

Serving ages 2-5, our full-day Preschool fosters an environment of openended exploration and growth that deepens our connections to Judaism and the world around us.

Schedule a tour today by contacting miriams@edcjcc.org.

JFAMILY AMBASSADORS

Families with newborns or tots up to 36 months are invited to participate in this new program. Your neighborhood Ambassador will get to know your family, connect you with others families, and help you engage in Jewish life in Washington, DC. Check out upcoming programs at edcjcc.org/jfamily.

Funded by the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington and The United Jewish Endowment Fund.

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PARENTING

EDCJCC.ORG/PARENTING

CHILD AND CAREGIVER CLASSES

Looking for fun fall activities? Check out our Parenting Center classes for infants and toddlers! Options include music, dance, yoga, gymnastics, soccer, and more. Read more and register at edcjcc.org/totsclasses.

Thursday, September 19, 7:30 PM

GROWING YOUR CAREER WHILE GROWING YOUR FAMILY Sundays, September 22, October 27, and November 17, 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM

NESTED’S CHILDBIRTH EDUCATION BOOT CAMP

This one-day class will prepare you for your journey through labor, delivery, and the postpartum period. Topics include signs and symptoms of labor, the hospital process, options for pain management and potential interventions, various childbirth scenarios, and adjustment to life with an infant.

In partnership with Nested.

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Balancing your career and family goals can get really tricky really quickly. This workshop teaches participants how to navigate simultaneous career and family transitions. Discussion topics will include setting and achieving goals, discussing your career path, strategies for attaining your next career milestone, time management tips, and much more.

Led by Randi Braun, Founder of Something Major Coaching.

Wednesday, November 6, 7:30 PM

TOILET TRAINING WITHOUT TEARS: AVOIDING THE PERILS OF THE POTTY

Learn how to approach toilet training in a way that is developmentally appropriate and respectful to your child’s growing need to feel in control of his or her body, without unnecessary parental stress and anxiety.

Led by Claire Lerner, a licensed clinical social worker and child development specialist.

Thursday, October 31, 10:30 AM

PARENTING COFFEE: GENTLE SLEEP SECRETS FOR NEWBORNS

Join us for coffee, the company of other new parents, and a relaxed conversation about your baby’s sleep. We’ll learn how sleep develops during infancy, why it can be so difficult and what you can do to make it easier for both you and your baby. Bring your questions — we’ll spend most of our time talking through participants’ specific situations. Babies warmly welcomed!

Led by Jessica Dodson, Starlight Sleep Coaching.

6 Mondays, October 28 – December 2, 6:45 PM

BEYOND THE BUMP

Pregnant for the first time? Looking to create a community with other expecting moms to exchange ideas and find support? This group will meet weekly for six weeks to provide a safe and facilitated space for moms to discuss their experiences and learn from one another.

Wednesday, November 13, 7:30 PM

Facilitated by Heather Diamond, Psy.D.

ADOPTION: STARTING THE PROCESS

Join us for an informal discussion about various paths to adopting a child. Hear from an adoption lawyer, representatives from an adoption agency and the DC foster care system, and parents who have gone through it successfully. LGBTQ and straight, couples and singles, Jewish and non-Jewish – are all warmly welcomed.

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YOU

COME VISIT OUR NEWLY RENOVATED BUILDING

HAPPEN

WHERE

The Edlavitch DCJCC embraces inclusion in all its programs and activities.

1529 Sixteenth Street, NW Washington, DC 20036