The May Edition Includes:

Register For A Great Event: Sunday, May 5, 2024, "Blintzes & Burritos Brunch",

Meet:Joan Persky; Meet:Celeste Herrera; Macabbi 2024; Youth and Adult Basketball; Readers Club; Men's Club; Book Club

Letter From Jeff Rubin

Executive Director, Valley JCC

Experience the Magic: Join Us for Valley JCC's

Annual Program on May 5th!

Valley JCC's Annual Program is an event that brings our amazing community together to celebrate and showcase all that Valley JCC does. It is a time to connect with family and friends, experience the magic of our community, and create lasting memories. We hope that you will join us for this year's program on May 5^th, Blintzes and Burritos, as we have planned an amazing program that celebrates and connects the Jewish and Latino Communities together through Art and Architecture. 

The annual program is a momentous occasion for Valley JCC and the community we serve. It is a time to reflect on the accomplishments of the past year and to look forward to the future. This event allows us to come together and celebrate the impact Valley JCC has had on the lives of individuals and families within our community. It is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our board, staff, volunteers, and supporters.

Over the years, our annual program has become a highly anticipated event within the community. Each year, we strive to make it bigger and better than before. Some of the highlights from previous annual programs include live performances by local artists, interactive projects, delicious food from local vendors, and a silent auction/raffle which includes donated items from our community. Attendees have also had the opportunity to learn more about the programs and services offered by Valley JCC throughout the year. 

This year's program promises to be the best one yet. Valley JCC's Annual Program would not be possible without the support of our dedicated volunteers. If you are passionate about our mission and want to make a difference in the community, we invite you to join us as a volunteer for this event and many others. Whether you have a few hours to spare or can commit to the entire day, there are various volunteer opportunities available. From assisting with setup and cleanup to helping with activities and providing information to attendees, your contribution will be invaluable.

Valley JCC's Annual Program offers businesses a unique opportunity to showcase their support for the community while gaining exposure for their brand. We offer different sponsorship packages tailored to meet the needs and budgets of businesses of all sizes. By becoming a sponsor, you will not only be contributing to the success of the event but also demonstrating your commitment to making a positive impact in the community. For more information on sponsorship options, please visit our website or contact our sponsorship coordinator at info@valleyjcc.org.

Don't just take our word for it - hear what previous attendees have to say about Valley JCC's Annual Program:

• "Attending Valley JCC's Annual Program was a truly memorable experience. The sense of community and the positive energy were palpable. I can't wait to attend again this year!" - Attendee

• "As a volunteer at the event, I was able to see firsthand the impact that Valley JCC has on the lives of individuals and families. It was inspiring to be a part of such a meaningful event." - Volunteer

• "Valley JCC's Annual Program is the highlight of the year for me. I look forward to it every year and it never disappoints!" - Attendee

Valley JCC's Annual Program is an incredible opportunity to experience the magic of our community. We can't wait to celebrate with you! If you can’t join us, please visit our website (valleyjcc.org) for all the amazing programs we offer for the community. 

Best regards,

Jeff

To Register for "Blintzes and Burritos Brunch" CLICK HERE or go to: WWW.VALLEYJCC.ORG/CELEBRATION

Celeste Herrera To Receive VJCC/John Paul Thornton Youth Art Scholarship

Celeste Herrera is an exceptional individual who is poised to make a significant impact in the world of user experience design. She is a high-achieving student with a GPA of 3.9 from Reseda Charter High School, who has recently been accepted to the prestigious University of California San Diego to pursue her passion for UX Design.

Celeste has been selected as the recipient of the Valley Jewish Community Center/John Paul Thornton Youth Art Scholarship, and will receive this honor at the "Blintzes and Burritos Brunch" fundraising event on Sunday, May 5th.

Celeste has demonstrated her dedication to academic success and excellence. During high school, she was actively involved in various leadership roles, including serving on the 2024 class committee, student council, and managing the volleyball team. Her commitment to teamwork and community engagement sets her apart. In addition to excelling academically and artistically, Celeste is also a dedicated athlete who competes in Division 3 track and field while also playing volleyball.

Celeste's passion for the arts shines through her involvement in the Ryman Arts (Advanced Studio Arts) Program and the SPMAP Community Arts Program (Multimedia Animation). Her creative talents complement her analytical skills, making her a well-rounded individual. Celeste holds certificates in Photoshop, showcasing her proficiency in graphic design and digital imaging tools and Premier Pro for her work in professional digital video.

Celeste will attend the University of California San Diego, majoring in Interdisciplinary Computing and the Arts Major (ICAM), Celeste's career goal is to become a user experience designer, where she will combine her creativity and technical skills to shape innovative digital experiences.

Congratulations on being awarded the

2024 Valley Jewish Community Center / John Paul Thornton

Youth Art Scholarship!

Letter From Ollie Haas

President, Board of Directors



Dear Valley JCC Members and Friends,

Did you know that May is officially Jewish American Heritage Month? This designation grew out over the years from 1980, when it was a week-long Resolution passed by Congress, to a month-long Proclamation declared by the President in 2006.

Since 2007, Presidents Bush, Obama, Trump, and Biden have all issued proclamations for Jewish American Heritage Month, which celebrates Jewish Americans and encourages all Americans to learn more about Jewish heritage and contributions to the United States.

Jewish Americans have served in the military and the government, have won numerous Nobel prizes, advanced medicine, headed universities and corporations, created and performed in enduring works of visual and performing music and art, written great American novels, and so much more. Perhaps most importantly, American Jews have always pushed America to live up to its promise as a nation that upholds freedom and justice for all.

This month is a wonderful opportunity to honor and celebrate the rich contributions that the Jewish people have made to the fabric of our American society. It is fervently hoped that Americans of all backgrounds and religions recognize that Jews have played vital roles in shaping America’s history and identity. Be sure to take time this month to reflect on and appreciate the lasting impact that Jewish people have had on our nation.

Have a great month,

Ollie

Valley JCC President

Meet: Joan Persky

Joan Persky, who will provide piano entertainment for our “Blintzes And Burritos Brunch”, was born and grew up in the Bronx, New York. She started playing the piano at the very young age of four years. When Joan was 8 years old the family moved to the Los Angeles area, first to Westchester and then West Los Angeles.

Joan went to Hamilton High School, and was active in United Synagogue Youth (USY) and Camp Fire Girls. She attended California State University at Northridge (CSUN) and received her Bachelor’s degree with a major in Literature, with a minor in Music.

When Joan started playing the piano, she enjoyed the actual lessons, even enjoyed practicing, and felt that music “was always a part of me”. Years later, Joan taught piano. She also accompanied the orchestra for the Calabasas High School production of “Fiddler On The Roof”.

Joan married in 1966 and moved to the San Fernando Valley in 1968. They bought a house in what later became the City of Calabasas, where Joan still resides. She has a son and a daughter and two grandchildren.

We thank you for being part of our fundraising event, and applaud your talent!

Jesse Gabriel's Day of Service

Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel held an annual Day of Service in April. Valley Jewish Community Center arranged for a booth, and several members came out to Pierce College, in the rain, in support of offering service to the community. Pictured below are: Andy and Phyllis Levy, Lois Julien, Suzanne Victor, Elaine Fox, Ellen Cohen, Ollie Haas and Jeff Rubin.

Music & Morsels: From Bach to Brahms

Wednesday, May 1

1-2pm (PT) on Zoom

Save! Get “Early Bird” pricing; purchase before April 28th.

For details & tickets, click here.

Exploring Music: Jewish Composers & Jewish Influences in Classical Music

Four Thursdays, May 9, 16, 23 & 30

1-2pm (PT) on Zoom

Save! Register by May 7th for “Early Bird” pricing!

For details & tickets, click here.

Valley JCC sports leagues are named

in memory of beloved former

Executive Director Jerry Wayne

Lag BaOmer

May 25-26th

Lag BaOmer is a minor, festive holiday that falls on the 33rd day of the seven-week period between Passover and Shavuot, a period of time is known as the Omer. (The numerical value of the Hebrew letter lamed is 30, and the value of gimel is three; lamed and gimel together are pronounced “lahg.”) This holiday gives us a break from the semi-mourning restrictions (no parties or events with music, no weddings, no haircuts) that are customarily in place for some Jewish communities during the Omer.

The Omer has both agricultural and spiritual significance: it marks both the spring cycle of planting and harvest, and the Israelites’ journey out of slavery in Egypt (Passover) and toward receiving the Torah at Mount Sinai (Shavuot). 

An omer (“sheaf”) is an ancient Hebrew measure of grain. Biblical law forbade any use of the new barley crop until after an omer was brought as an offering to the Temple in Jerusalem. Lag BaOmer commemorates a variety of historical events, including the end of a plague that killed many students of Rabbi Akiva (c. 50-135 C.E.), the yahrzeit of 2nd-century mystical scholar Shimon bar Yochai, and a Jewish military victory over Roman forces in 66 C.E. 

In remembrance of these events, some people celebrate with picnics and bonfires. Many couples in Israel choose to get married on Lag BaOmer, and many people also choose to wait until that day to get a haircut or beard trim.

www.reformjudaism.org

Chunky Monkey Zucchini Banana Muffins

Healthy zucchini banana muffins packed with shredded zucchini, banana, heart-healthy walnuts, coconut and dark chocolate chips. These delicious muffins pack in both fruits and veggies, making them the perfect healthy snack! Freezer-friendly and a great way to use up zucchini!

https://www.ambitiouskitchen.com/chunky-monkey-zucchini-banana-muffins/

Book Recommendation

Can't We Be Friends

by Eliza Knight (Author), Denny S. Bryce (Author)

Award-winning author Denny S. Bryce and USA Today bestselling author Eliza Knight collaborate on a brilliant novel that uncovers the boundary-breaking, genuine friendship between Ella Fitzgerald, the Queen of Jazz, and iconic movie star Marilyn Monroe. 

One woman was recognized as the premiere singer of her era with perfect pitch and tireless ambition. One woman was the most glamorous star in Hollywood, a sex symbol who took the world by storm.

And their friendship was fast and firm…1952: Ella Fitzgerald is a renowned jazz singer whose only roadblock to longevity is society’s attitude toward women and race. Marilyn Monroe’s star is rising despite ongoing battles with movie studio bigwigs and boyfriends. When she needs help with her singing, she wants only the best—and the best is the brilliant Ella Fitzgerald. But Ella isn’t a singing teacher and declines—then the two women meet, and to everyone’s surprise but their own, they become fast friends.

On the surface, what could they have in common? Yet each was underestimated by the men in their lives—husbands, managers, hangers-on. And both were determined to gain. Each fought for professional independence and personal agency in a time when women were expected to surrender control to those same men.

This novel reveals and celebrates their surprising bond over a decade and serves as a poignant reminder of how true friendship can cross differences to bolster and sustain us through haunting heartbreak and wild success.

https://www.amazon.com/Cant-We-Be-Friends-Fitzgerald/dp/0063282909

From Today's Montessori...

Valley JCC Men's Club

Meet and socialize

with other 55+ men in the Valley!

Past outings include special tours of Santa Anita Park, Jet Propulsion Laboratories in Pasadena, experiences at Dodger Stadium, the Getty Museum, and Axe Throwing at Lumberjack's in Northridge, and SoFi Stadium.

The Men's Club meets the first Monday of the month

unless there is a national or religious holiday.

We will be having our next Men’s Club meeting

on Monday, May 6th, 6:00pm

at Bob’s Big Boy, 8876 Corbin Ave., Northridge

Please RSVP to me, steve@valleyjcc.org,

and let me know whether or not you will be able to attend.

I hope to see all of you Monday,  May 6th!!! 

For more information, contact steve@valleyjcc.org or call 818-360-2211

Valley JCC is looking forward to engaging in continuous outreach in the community.

Stay tuned for details...

Fundraising Opportunity

On Your Birthday!

"How To" Use Ralphs To Benefit Valley JCC

1. Go to: www.ralphs.com
2. Click on "Sign in" to the right of the search box. (If you don't have an online account, click on "Register")
3. Click on your name to the right of the search box at the top
4. You will now be on your Account Summary page
5. Scroll down to "Community Contributions" and click on "Enroll"
6. Complete the online form and Click on "Save"
7. Enter organization number SK677 and click on the "Search" button
8. "Valley Jewish Community Center" will be displayed. Click "Enroll"
9. You will see a confirmation at the top of the Account Summary page
10. A percentage of your purchases will be donated to Valley JCC