The J - Detroit

SNEAK PEEK WEEK - FREE JLEARN SAMPLE CLASSES
2024-09-03 09:00 - 20:00, 2024-09-04 09:00 - 12:00, 2024-09-04 09:00 - 20:00, 2024-09-05 09:00 - 20:00, 2024-09-06 09:00 - 12:00, 2024-09-09 16:00 - 16:30 (America/Detroit)
SNEAK PEEK WEEK AT JLEARN
_JOIN US FOR: 30 minutes sample classes at _NO CHARGE for all on
ZOOM!
Register at
http://jlearn.online/

Or call 248-205-2557
NO CHARGE – all on ZOOM!
DATES : September 3 – 9
SCHEDULE:
Tuesday, September 3:

9 – 9:30 AM: HAVE YOU GOT CHUTZPAH? WITH RABBI JOSEPH KRAKOFF
10 – 10:30 AM: AN ANGEL ON YOUR BACK, WITH RABBI MICHELE FAUDEM
7 – 7:30 PM: READING THE BOOK OF GENESIS AGAIN FOR THE FIRST TIME, WITH RABBI JOSEPH KLEIN
8 – 8:30 PM: THE BOOK OF EXODUS: TEXT AND TEXTURE, WITH RABBI JOSEPH KLEIN
_Wednesday,_September 4:
10 – 10:30 AM: ETHICAL WILLS, A LETTER FOR THE AGES, WITH RABBI MICHELE FAUDEM
11 – 11:30 AM: JEWISH IDENTITY: WHO IS A JEW? WITH RUTH BERGMAN
7 – 7:30 PM: SIMPLE INSTRUCTIONS FOR A COMPLICATED LIFE, WITH RABBI MICHELE FAUDEM
_Thursday,_September 5:
9 – 9:30 AM: BIBLICAL DREAMERS AND THE VISIONARIES THEY INSPIRED, WITH ARIELLA NADEL
10 – 10:30 AM: BETTER TOGETHER, LOVE AND KINDNESS IN JUDAISM WITH RABBI TZVI MULLER
11 – 11:30 AM: GENEALOGY WORKSHOP: FINDING YOUR ROOTS, WITH ROBBIE TERMAN
7 – 7:30 PM: TORAH LINE BY LINE WITH RABBI/DR. MITCH PARKER
8 – 8:30 PM: THE BASICS OF JUDAISM WITH RABBI/DR. MITCH PARKER
Friday, September 6:
9 – 9:30 AM: A RABBI’S TOP TEN LIST OF FAVORITE JEWISH TEXTS, WITH RABBI ROBERT DOBRUSIN
10 – 10:30 AM: JEWS IN THE THEATER, WITH RABBI AARON BERGMAN
11 – 11:30 AM: THE SYNAGOGUE: ITS HISTORY, CUSTOMS AND GROWTH, WITH DR. MICHAEL PYTLIK

Monday, September 9:
4 – 4:30 PM: COFFEE WITH THE RABBIS: MUSSAR MASTERS – ETHICAL LIVING WITH RABBI JOSEPH KRAKOFF

View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/8488
Click here to join the livestream. http://jlearn.online

A JLearn Pop-Up! The Chosen People And Politics: Judaism And The Election
2024-10-08 19:00 - 20:30, 2024-10-15 19:00 - 20:30 | Jewish Federation of Detroit 6735 Telegraph Rd, Bloomfield Hills
A Jlearn Pop-Up! The Chosen People And Politics: Judaism And The Election,
with Professor Howard Lupovitch
Hybrid – In-person at The Max M. Fisher Federation Building or on ZOOM.
Tuesdays, 7 PM – 8:30 PM
October 8, 15
Every election poses quandaries for American Jews, especially the choice
between our interests and aspirations as American citizens and also, to do
what is best for Israel. This election is no exception; the choice this time
feels extraordinarily difficult. In these two sessions, we will try to look
past the never-ending campaign rhetoric and place the complexities of this
choice in a broader historical perspective and context.
Session 1: Israel
What aspects of the political landscape of the last half-century have impelled
politicians in the two parties to be more or less supportive of the State of
Israel? How have events since October 7 altered this landscape?
Session 2: Competing Visions of America: What does each mean for Jews?
What do conflicting views of specific issues such as a woman’s right to choose
and reproductive freedom and the broader issue of the erosion of democracy,
mean for Jews? How do we navigate the situation in which our political allies
are antisemitic or allied with antisemites?
Join Howard and JLearn for this timely and important presentation. We will
offer this in-person or on ZOOM (Hybrid) but you must register in advance for
either one. The sessions will be recorded.
Tuition: $36
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/8780

The Synagogue: Its History, Customs And Growth with Dr. Michael Pytlik
2024-10-31 12:00 - 13:30, 2024-11-07 12:00 - 13:30, 2024-11-14 12:00 - 13:30, 2024-11-21 12:00 - 13:30, 2024-12-05 12:00 - 13:30, 2024-12-12 12:00 - 13:30, 2024-12-19 12:00 - 13:30, 2025-01-09 12:00 - 13:30
THE SYNAGOGUE: ITS HISTORY, CUSTOMS AND GROWTH with Dr. Michael Pytlik
ZOOM
THURSDAYS, NOON – 1:30 PM
Oct. 31; Nov. 7, 14, 21; Dec. 5, 12, 19; Jan. 9
The concept of the synagogue as a place of worship started long before the
destruction of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem by the Romans in 70 CE. The recent
uncovering of the remains of ancient synagogues has allowed us to trace the
synagogue’s development, both in form and function. Join Dr. Michael Pytlik as
he explores the evolution of the synagogue in Israel, the Near East and into
Europe, and discover the art, archaeology, liturgy and the religious use of
this important institution.
Tuition : $190
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/8595
Click here to join the livestream. http://jlearn.online

Discussing Youth Mental Health in Israel: A Coffee Hour with Renana Danon from ELEM
2024-11-01 11:00 - 12:00
Join us for a coffee hour to hear from Renana Danon, ELEM’s Assistant Director
of Clinical Training to discuss the state of youth mental health in Israel.
The location of the event will be shared with registrants prior to the
event.
Renana Danon is the Assistant Director of Clinical Director of Training in
ELEM’s Department of Knowledge, Training, and Learning. She oversees employee
training, develops specialized training sessions, and leads initiatives to
enhance professional knowledge across the organization. Renana ensures that
all staff, whether directly involved in trauma care or not, are equipped with
the knowledge and tools to respond effectively to the evolving challenges
faced by Israeli youth.
Following the outbreak of the war on October 7th, Danon launched a new trauma-
informed work model to address the needs of youth and staff in crisis,
including severe trauma, sexual abuse, and displacement. Renana holds a
Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Social Work,
specializing in trauma. She is also a graduate of the prestigious Mandel Youth
Leadership Program.
For more information on the important work ELEM does please visit their
website at: https://elem.org/
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/9521

Perfect Enemy with author Alex J. Sinclair
2024-11-10 19:00 - 21:00 | The J – Detroit 6600 W Maple Rd, West Bloomfield Township
Author ALex J. Sinclair will be joined in conversation with Michele Faudem,
Rabbi Educator, JLearn Instructor, Hillel of Metropolitan Detroit in a
thoughtful conversation about Israel’s friends and enemies on the page and in
the real world.
About the Book: In a covert laboratory under the streets of Tel Aviv, an
Israeli scientist clones Hitler from old samples of his DNA in this
suspenseful thriller. Akiva Cohen wants to change the world for the good but
is plunged into a desperate struggle to stay alive and salvage his dream,
leading to a trail of murders and the uncovering of a devastating conspiracy.
“ A fantastic and exciting read, an intelligent and suspenseful thriller. I
highly recommend it. ” —Steve Sheffey, The Times of Israel
Free and in-Person at The J
About the Author: Alex Sinclair is Chief Content Officer at Educating for
Impact, and an adjunct lecturer at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. He has
written and spoken widely on Jewish education, Israel-Diaspora relations, and
Israeli politics, in both academic and popular contexts. He has worked or
consulted for many of the finest Jewish educational and communal institutions
in North America, Europe and Israel. His first book, published in 2013,
Loving the Real Israel: An Educational Agenda for Liberal Zionism , was a
finalist for the National Jewish Book Award, and his debut novel, Perfect
Enemy , was published in 2023. He holds an M.A. (Oxon) and M.St. from Balliol
College, Oxford, and a Ph.D. from Hebrew University. He and his wife run a
hotel for their three children in Modi’in, Israel.
Sponsor: Jewish Federation of Greater Ann Arbor
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/9129

We Will Dance Again Film Screening
2024-11-17 17:00 - 19:15 | The J – Detroit 6600 West Maple Road, West Bloomfield Township
Join us for a powerful screening of the award-winning documentary "We Will
Dance Again," a profound chronicle of the October 7 Nova music festival
attack. Through intimate testimonies of over a dozen survivors and carefully
curated footage, the film offers a deeply moving portrayal of human courage in
the face of unimaginable circumstances.
The evening features an exclusive post-screening dialogue with director Yariv
Moser, producer Emilio Schenker and survivors from the Nova festival,
providing a rare opportunity to hear firsthand accounts and engage in
meaningful conversation about healing, memory, and hope.
This screening serves as both a testament to the strength of the human spirit
and a space for communal reflection and understanding. Recommended for ages 16
and up.
Seating is limited. Registration required.
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/9529

One Year Later: Talking to Our Children in Today's World
2024-12-05 19:30 - 20:30 | The J – Detroit 6600 W Maple Rd, West Bloomfield
It has been one year since the day that changed everything. One year later
and our children still have questions and we are so often at a loss for the
right words. The J invites you to a special conversation on talking to our
children about Israel, antisemitism and their own Jewish identity. The panel
will feature curated experts Rebecca Starr, Leah Blatnikoff and Brooke Bendix.
This program will feature panelist presentations and a short Q&A session.
Light refreshments will be served.
This evening is geared toward parents of children ages 10 and under.
Thank you to our host committee:
Alex Hartman
Lulu Hartman
Samantha Foon
Rebecca Weiner
Lauren Soleimani
Carly Pickel
Alex Mollen
Speaker Bios:
Rebecca Starr is the Vice President of Educational Operations and
Regional Strategy for the Shalom Hartman Institute of North America, where she
leads the design and implementation process for educational initiatives and
guides the regional hubs across the US and Canada. She lives in Southfield,
Michigan and works closely with local partners and institutions throughout
southeast Michigan.
Rebecca is a respected educator and community organizer.
Leah Blatnikoff LMSW Psychotherapist, Therapyology
Hello! I’m Leah. Oftentimes kids and teens’ feelings are invalidated or told
that what they are experiencing is “not a big deal.” That can be very
frustrating, especially as a teen! My goal as a clinical social worker is to
help people, no matter their age, work through their trauma, anxieties, and
life struggles. I understand how trauma and life experiences can shape a child
or teen’s life which is why I am so passionate about helping youth through
these vulnerable years. Growing up with constant access to tech and social
media, especially during unprecedented times, is very tough! I want to support
you through it all.
Brooke Bendix, AM, LCSW is the founder of Therapyology and a Licensed
Clinical Social Worker who specializes in individual and group therapy for
kids, teens and adults. Brooke has over 16 years of clinical experience,
training, and education in the field of social work and child development. She
founded Therapyology in 2016, where their mission is devoted to “empowering
the next generation” by helping kids and teens develop healthy coping skills
to manage their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors and truly develop their
sense of identity!
Co-hosted by: Therapyology and Shalom Hartman Institute of North America
If you or any family member need accommodations in order to successfully
participate in the program, please reach out to our team!
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View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/9524

A Blue and White Challah Bake with JFamily and Aish Detroit
2025-02-23 10:00 - 11:30 | Aish Detroit 25725 Coolidge Hwy, Oak Park
Now SOLD OUT!
Join Aish Detroit and JFamily for a challah bake that brings us together in a
supportive environment when we need it most. At a time that we mourn for our
people, it is our Jewish connection and traditions that bring us strength.
Each family will make their own batch of challah – some to take home and some
to give to friends or family who could use an extra hug this week.
Bagels and coffee will be served. This is event is free of charge –
registration is required.
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/10905

Detroit Jewish Film Festival: Matchmaking 2
2025-05-04 16:00 - 18:00 | The Berman Center For The Performing Arts 6600 W Maple Rd,
Romantic Comedy / Israel / Hebrew with English Subtitles / 110 minutes
Israel’s biggest box office hit of the year, Matchmaking 2 , is the feel-
good, long-awaited sequel to the beloved 2022 rom-com starring some of
Israel’s brightest young talents. This tender, side-splitting celebration of
clashing traditions and big-hearted characters follows a love-struck bachelor
in a Jerusalem yeshiva, pressured to find his soulmate before it’s too late.
Presented by The Lenore Marwil Detroit Jewish Film Festival
Sponsors: Adat Shalom Synagogue Sisterhood; Jewish Senior Life of
Metropolitan Detroit
National Council of Jewish Women, Michigan; The Women of Temple Israel; The
J’s Opening the Doors
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/11183

Detroit Jewish Film Festival: The Ring
2025-05-08 16:00 - 18:00 | The Berman Center For The Performing Arts 6600 W Maple Rd,
Drama / Israel, Hungary / Hebrew and Hungarian with English subtitles / 120
minutes
Arnon Noble, a devout man with a strong bond to his mother, a Holocaust
survivor, embarks on a journey to Hungary with his estranged daughter to seek
a legendary ring that once saved her life. Written by and starring Ophir
Award-winning actor and beloved stand-up comedian Adir Miller, The Ring is
based on his own family’s story of Holocaust survival.
Presented by The Lenore Marwil Detroit Jewish Film Festival
Sponsors: CHAIM-Children of Holocaust Survivors Association in Michigan;
The Voice/Vision Holocaust Survivor Oral History Archive
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/11189

A Second Blue and White Challah Bake with JFamily and Aish Detroit
2025-06-23 16:00 - 17:00 | Aish Detroit 25725 Coolidge Hwy, Oak Park
Join Aish Detroit and JFamily for our second Israel-themed challah bake of the
year. Come together in a supportive environment to pray for our brothers and
sisters in Israel when they need it most. At this time of open miracles, our
renewed faith and connection to our Jewish community can bring about better
days to come.
Each family will make their own batch of challah – some to take home and some
to give to friends or family who could use some extra strength.
$18 per family covers the cost of challah making materials.
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/12029

Detroit Jewish Film Festival: Technion 10 Squared
2025-06-29 16:00 - 18:00 | The Berman Center For The Performing Arts 6600 W Maple Rd,
Documentary / Israel / English and Hebrew with English subtitles / 77 minutes
The story of this institution’s hundred years on Mount Carmel provides a
fascinating prism through which to describe the history of the State of
Israel.
Exclusive film screening followed by a conversation with Scott Leemaster,
Chairman of the Technion Board of Governors and former National President of
ATS, and Larry Jackier, ATS lay leader and Detroit native.

American Technion Society will be hosting a reception before the film!
Please arrive by 3:00 PM to enjoy light bites and beverages and connect with
fellow attendees before the screening begins.
Please note: Former Technion President Peretz Lavie, who was previously
scheduled to attend this event, is no longer able to do so because of the
security situation in Israel.
Presented by The Lenore Marwil Detroit Jewish Film Festival
Platinum Film Sponsor: American Technion Society;
Gold Film Sponsor: SAJE;
Silver Film Sponsor: The Cis Maisel Center for Judaic Studies and
Community Engagement, Oakland University
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/11192

Making Sense Of The Headlines In A Tumultuous Time with Rebecca Starr
2025-09-11 12:00 - 13:15, 2025-10-30 12:00 - 13:15 | Jewish Federation of Detroit 6735 Telegraph Rd, Bloomfield Hills
MAKING SENSE OF THE HEADLINES IN A TUMULTUOUS TIME with REBECCA STARR
In-Person I Max M. Fisher Federation Building
THURSDAYS, NOON – 1:15 PM
MONTHLY: Sep. 11, Oct. 30, Nov. 13; Dec. 4
We are living in a time of information overload with a never ending new cycle.
Current events connected to Israel and the Jewish world more broadly are
important to discern and analyze
in real time while also making the time to process them for deeper
understanding. This class will look at current headlines and offer
participants an opportunity to discuss their implications.
Tuition: $80
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/12232

Layers Of Time: Israeli Archaeology And History with Dr. Michael Pytlik
2025-10-21 13:00 - 14:30, 2025-10-28 13:00 - 14:30, 2025-11-04 13:00 - 14:30
LAYERS OF TIME: ISRAELI ARCHAEOLOGY AND HISTORY with DR. MICHAEL PYTLIK
ZOOM
TUESDAYS, 1 – 2:30 PM
Oct. 21, 28; Nov. 4, 11, 18; Dec. 2, 9, 16
Join archaeologist Mike Pytlik for an ALL-NEW engaging class exploring the
latest archaeological discoveries in Israel! This series will delve into
groundbreaking findings, highlighting the region’s rich
history and cultural heritage. Participants will be introduced to recent
excavations, ancient artifacts and significant historical sites that have been
uncovered, offering insights into the lives of past civilizations. We also
will explore various viewpoints on ancient Jewish history that may not be
directly linked to any specific archaeology but are important knowledge. Don’t
miss out on this brand-new curriculum!
Tuition: $195
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/12215
Click here to join the livestream.
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