The J - Detroit

Detroit Jewish Film Festival: Bad Shabbos with Comedy Short Sauna Dreams
2025-05-08 19:00 - 21:30 (America/Detroit) | The Berman Center For The Performing Arts 6600 W Maple Rd,
Comedy / USA / English / 84 minutes
David and his fiancée Meg attend a Shabbat dinner at his mother’s house to
introduce her Catholic parents to his Jewish family. When a turn of events
leads to a frantic cover-up, the evening spirals into darkly comedic chaos.
Uproariously funny with a cast featuring Emmy-winner Kyra Sedgwick, Method
Man, and David Paymer, Bad Shabbos is filled with twists, turns, and laughs
you won’t see coming!
Talkback with Rabbi Blair Nosanwisch, Adat Shalom Synagogue, and Rabbi
Yonatan Dahlen, Congregation Shaarey Zedek.
Sponsor: B’nai B’rith Great Lakes Region; ORT America Michigan Region;
Women of the J; Jlive
Before the feature short film: Sauna Dreams
Comedy Short / USA / English / 18 minutes
This mockumentary follows Dave Roffman, a schlub from New York, on his quest
to win the 2023 World Sauna Championships in Detroit. Watch for a brief
appearance by local actor David Shevrin, who shows up in a towel, though his
lines were left on the cutting room floor.
Presented by The Lenore Marwil Detroit Jewish Film Festival
Sponsor: The Schvitz
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/11190

Reading The Prophets with Rabbi Joseph Klein
2025-05-09 11:30 - 13:00, 2025-05-16 11:30 - 13:00, 2025-05-23 11:30 - 13:00, 2025-05-30 11:30 - 13:00, 2025-06-06 11:30 - 13:00
READING THE PROPHETS with Rabbi Joseph Klein
ZOOM
FRIDAYS, 11:30 AM – 1 PM
May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30; June 6
We know their names and many of their quotations . This course will examine
the best known of the Biblical Prophets, their histories, the context of their
messages and who in fact they really were . Rabbi Klein will place them within
the historical reality of the Biblical narrative, suggest how their messages
would have been received then and what they can mean for us today .
Tuition: $140
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/8603
Click here to join the livestream. http://jlearn.online

Detroit Jewish Film Festival: Midas Man
2025-05-11 16:00 - 18:00 | The Berman Center For The Performing Arts 6600 W Maple Rd,
Biopic / UK / English / 112 minutes
Witness the rise of Brian Epstein, the visionary manager who catapulted The
Beatles from a scrappy Liverpool band into global rock legends. The film
details Epstein’s belief in The Beatles and the sacrifices he made to help
them achieve fame. Midas Man features a star-making turn by Jacob Fortune-
Lloyd (The Queen’s Gambit), alongside dynamic performances by Emily Watson,
Jay Leno, and Eddie Izzard.
Presented by The Lenore Marwil Detroit Jewish Film Festival
Sponsors: Burton A. Zipser & Sandra D. Zipser Foundation and Hampton Inn
Southfield/West Bloomfield; Home 2 Suites West Bloomfield; The Berman
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/11191

JGrand: Bubbies, Zaydies, and Grandbabies! April -June 2025
2025-05-13 10:30 - 11:45, 2025-05-20 10:30 - 11:45, 2025-05-27 10:30 - 11:45, 2025-06-03 10:30 - 11:45 | The J – Detroit 6600 W Maple Rd, West Bloomfield Township
The popular series Bubbies, Zaydies, and Grandbabies is ready for our next
series!
At Bubbies, Zaydies and Grandbabies, grandparents and grandkids play and
create art together, sing songs, enjoy an interactive story time, and meet new
friends. This series is taught by former West Bloomfield early elementary
teacher, Sarah Sherman.
Recommended for children ages 2 years – 5 years . This 7 week series
will be at The J in the JFamily Room. The classes will be held on Tuesdays
from 10:30 ​AM -11:45 AM.

April 22nd
April 29th
May 6th
May 13th
May 20th
May 27th
June 3rd

COST: $126 for the first child enrolled ($18 per class) and $30 for each
additional child in your family.
Please bring your own personal water bottle.
All JFamily programs welcome the diversity we know exists in our community.
This includes, but is not limited to, multifaith families, Jews of Color,
single parent families, members of the trans and LGBTQ+ community, people with
disabilities, and people from various economic backgrounds.
If you or any family member needs accommodations in order to successfully
participate in the program, please reach out to our
team .
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/10851

JBaby Prenatal Spring 2025
2025-05-13 18:00 - 21:00, 2025-05-20 18:00 - 21:00, 2025-05-27 18:00 - 21:00 | The J – Detroit 6600 W Maple Rd, West Bloomfield Township
Expecting your first? JFamily has you covered with everything you need to know
before welcoming your little bundle of cuteness! The JBaby Prenatal is a
three-part course that covers topics including:

Labor and Delivery
Newborn Care
Breastfeeding Basics
Brit Milah (Bris)
Baby Naming
Daddy Boot Camp
Expert Mom Talk

Please note that JBaby classes will take place at a variety of locations:

5/13 (Labor and Delivery): the J Detroit in West Bloomfield
5/20: (Newborn Care/Feeding) at Congregation Shaarey Zedek
5/27: (Daddy Boot Camp/Moms Talk, Brit Milah, Challah bake) Aish Detroit.

If cost is a barrier to attend this program, please reach out for scholarship
opportunities.
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/10968

Salon Series Continues: A Talmudic Exploration Of Hillel’s Teachings On Ethics And Kindness
2025-05-15 09:30 - 11:00, 2025-05-22 09:30 - 11:00
SALON SERIES CONTINUES: A TALMUDIC EXPLORATION OF HILLEL’S TEACHINGS ON
ETHICS AND KINDNESS with Rabbi Tzvi Muller
ZOOM
THURSDAYS, 9:30 – 11 AM
Oct. 31; Nov. 7, 14, 21; Dec. 5, 12, 19; Jan. 9, 16, 23; Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27;
Mar. 6, 13, 20, 27; Apr. 3, 24;
May 1, 8, 15, 22
The genius of the Talmud, and the methodology of distilling its principles
toward application for Jewish ethical life, has been the hallmark of Jewish
scholarship throughout the ages. In this series, we analyze the teachings of
Hillel and his academy and examine them through the lens of the classic
commentaries. We will enlighten ourselves through the process of translating
these relevant Jewish teachings into everyday life while exploring the art of
practical Talmudic investigation. Class size is limited. Please contact the
office for registration.
Tuition : $525
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/8598
Click here to join the livestream. http://jlearn.online

Pop-up Stroller Walk in Huntington Woods!
2025-05-16 09:30 - 10:30 | Monarch Market Cafe 10099 W Eleven Mile Rd, Huntington Woods
Join our Parent Connector, Adina Goss for a stroller walk around Huntington
Woods. We will meet inside Monarch Market Café, grab a coffee then head out
for a stroll!
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/11663

Modern Jewish Medical Ethics With Jill Gutmann
2025-05-19 10:00 - 11:30, 2025-06-16 10:00 - 11:30
MODERN JEWISH MEDICAL ETHICS with Jill Gutmann
﻿ZOOM
MONDAYS, 10 – 11:30 AM
Monthly : Oct. 28; Nov. 18; Dec. 16; Jan. 27; Feb. 24; Mar. 24; Apr.
28; May 19; June 16
Take a deep dive into the hot medical issues of the day with bioethicist Jill
Gutmann. Whether the subject is public health or women’s rights to their
bodies, you will be guided through an engaging discussion while looking at the
science, politics, Jewish commentary and other relevant sources to frame your
opinion. Never knowing what the timely topic will be until class, this fun,
informative and engaging class is sure to make you think and want the
conversation to continue long after the class has ended.
Tuition:__$210
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/8564
Click here to join the livestream. http://jlearn.online

Torah Line By Line with Rabbi/Dr. Mitch Parker
2025-05-20 10:00 - 11:30 | Max M. Fisher Federation Building 6735 Telegraph Rd, Bloomfield Twp
TORAH LINE BY LINE with Rabbi/Dr. Mitch Parker
HYBRID – this class is offered IN- PERSON at the Max M. Fisher Federation
Building,
and ON ZOOM
TUESDAYS, 10 – 11:30 AM
Monthly : Sept. 17; Oct. 15; Nov. 12; Dec. 10; Jan. 14; Feb. 4; Mar. 18;
Apr. 22; May 20
Sacrifices, laws of purity and holiness, societal expectations, rules and rule
breakers. These are just some of the topics we will explore in this third book
of the Torah. Join Mitch Parker to explore how our ancestors worshipped G-d
and how these 3,000 year old rules continue to impact our Jewish lives today.
You don’t want to miss this engaging conversation.
Tuition : $210
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/8574

JFamily Challah Train Nominations 2025-2026
2025-06-02 00:00 - 2026-05-31 00:00
🚂Choo Choo! All Aboard the JFamily Challah Train!
Do you know a family who could use a little extra love this week? Maybe they
just welcomed a new baby, moved into a new home, are navigating a tough
time—or maybe they’ve just been doing something wonderful and deserve to be
celebrated. Whatever the reason, the JFamily Challah Train is ready to
roll their way with a special Shabbat surprise!
Each week, our incredible Parent Connectors deliver fresh challah and a
bag of goodies to families across Metro Detroit. It’s our way of sharing
the warmth of Shabbat and reminding families that they’re seen, supported, and
celebrated.
Whether it’s a “just because” or a meaningful milestone, the Challah Train is
a small gesture with a big heart—and now, we need your help to keep it
going!
💛 Who can you nominate?
Families with children ages 0–10 living in Metro Detroit who could use
a warm Shabbat hug.
📬 What will they receive?
A delicious challah, a thoughtful bag of Shabbat-themed goodies, and a whole
lot of love.
✅ How do you nominate someone?
Just click the “Sign Up” button below and fill out the quick form. It only
takes a minute to brighten someone’s week.
This heartfelt initiative is generously supported by PJ Library Detroit ,
and together, we’re helping families feel connected, celebrated, and cared
for.
🚂Don’t miss the train—nominate a family today!
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/11900

Dads' Night Out with JFamily - June
2025-06-04 19:30 - 21:00
Dads deserve a night out, too! Take some time with the guys in a relaxed
environment while you schmooze, network and enjoy good company. See some of
your old friends and make some new ones!
Once you RSVP, we will send you the restaurant for our monthly meetup!
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/11664

Donuts with Dads and Friends: A Father's Day Pop Up!
2025-06-08 10:00 - 11:30 | Drake Sports Park 6801 Drake Rd, West Bloomfield
Celebrate the special guys in your life! Join Parent Connector Taylor
Weintraub for a morning of connection, community and fun at Drake Park in West
Bloomfield. Whether you’re a dad, grandpa, uncle or special friend – we want
to celebrate you! Open to the whole family and geared towards families with
children ages 10 and under. Donuts, drinks and snacks will be served!
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/11770

Michigan Watercolor Society Exhibition Opening Reception
2025-06-08 12:30 - 16:00 | Janice Charach Gallery 6600 W Maple Rd,, West Maple Road 6600, Michigan, 48322, United States
Michigan Watercolor Society’s 78th Annual Exhibition
June 8 – July 23, 2025
Opening Reception: Sunday June 8 12:30 – 4 PM
The Janice Charach Gallery is proud to host the Michigan Water Color
Society’s 78 th Annual Exhibition. Juried by Chuck McPherson, the exhibit
features the best of MWCS Members’ artwork of 2025.
Join us for a celebration of the award winners and a Juror’s talk during the
opening reception on Sunday, June 8, at 12:30 p.m.
EXHIBIT SPONSORS: Manat Foundation, Doris Shulman, Esther Hankin, Dr. Judy
Balan Pearl, Sue & Alan Jay Kaufman Foundation
PROGRAM SPONSORS: Philip & Jeannie Bakst Elkus Philanthropic Fund, Lesley &
Dr. Barry Feldman, Judy & Dr. John Marx, Arlene & Jack Schultz
Our opening receptions are free and open to the public. Complementary drinks
are served.
For more information about the exhibition (https://thejdetroit.org/culture-education/janice-charach–
gallery/exhibits/pushingboundaries/).
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/11381

Michigan Watercolor Society Exhibition and Sale
2025-06-08 18:00 - 21:00 | Janice Charach Gallery 6600 W Maple Rd,, West Maple Road 6600, Michigan, 48322, United States
Michigan Watercolor Society’s 78th Annual Exhibition
June 8 – July 23, 2025
Opening Reception: Sunday June 8, 12:30-4
The Janice Charach Gallery is proud to host the Michigan Water Color Society’s
78th Annual Exhibition. Juried by Chuck McPherson, the exhibit features the
best of MWCS Members’ artwork of 2025.
Join us for a celebration of the award winners and a Juror’s talk during the
opening reception on Sunday, June 8, at 1 p.m.
EXHIBIT SPONSORS: Manat Foundation, Doris Shulman, Esther Hankin, Dr. Judy
Balan Pearl, Sue & Alan Jay Kaufman Foundation
PROGRAM SPONSORS: Philip & Jeannie Bakst Elkus Philanthropic Fund, Lesley &
Dr. Barry Feldman, Judy & Dr. John Marx, Arlene & Jack Schultz
For more on exhibits and events, visit
(https://charachgallery.org).
OPEN HOURS DURING EXHIBITS:
Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday – 10 am – 4 pm
Thursday – 11 am – 7 pm
Monday, Friday, Saturday – Closed
Father’s Day, June 15 – Closed
*Visit the website or social media for up-to-date information & holiday closures.
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/11379

The J's Annual Meeting
2025-06-09 17:30 - 19:00 | The J – Detroit 6600 West Maple Road, West Bloomfield Township
You’re Invited to The J’s Annual Meeting
Find your Jewish center. Connect with your community.
Join us as we reflect on a year of meaningful connection, growth, and impact
at The J—your home for Jewish life in Metro Detroit.
At this inspiring evening, we’ll welcome our incoming president and board
members, honor those who have led with dedication. We will celebrate the
countless ways our community has come together to nurture Jewish souls, build
friendships, and create lasting change.
Whether you’ve been with us for years or are just discovering all The J has to
offer, this gathering is your opportunity to share stories, deepen
connections, and help shape the future of our community.
We hope you’ll join us. No need to join, you already belong!
NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF THE J
In accordance with the by-laws of The J, the Nominating Committee has met and
designated the following nominees for election to the Board of Directors:
First Three-Year Term
· Carey Bloom
· Richard Brodsky
· Rabbi Chaim Fink
· Faith Tobin Jacobson
Second Three-Year Term
· Jeff Johnson
· Hannah Kessler
Third Three-Year Term
· Adam Kessler
Honorary Board Members
· Dennis Frank
· Terri Hollander
Slate of Officers 2025-2026
· Aaron Goldstein – President
· Adam Kessler – Chair of the Executive Committee
· Ryan Hirsch – Treasurer
· Hannah Kessler – Secretary
· Adam Bleznak – VP of Real Estate
· Marci Taran – VP of Marketing
· Carol Weintraub Fogel – VP JCCA
· Samantha Foon – VP Family Programs
· Nathan Upfal – VP Legal Affairs
· Justin Jacobs – VP
· Mark Rubenfire – VP
· Steve Eisenshtadt – At Large
· Howard Iwrey – At Large
· Jerold Minkin – At Large
· Sophia Roslin – At Large
· Brett Rubenfire – At Large
· Matt Ran – At Large
Outgoing Board Members
On behalf of the entire Board of Directors, a special thank you to our
outgoing members for their dedication to The J and their commitment to the
Detroit Jewish community.
· Zachary Goldman
· Josh Kaplan
· Lauren Leach
· Rebecca Skoczylas
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/11794

Sign Language with Ms. Amanda: A JFamily Pop-Up!
2025-06-10 10:00 - 12:00 | The J – Detroit 6600 W Maple Rd, West Bloomfield
Join Us for a Special Morning of Learning and Fun!
Come spend a morning with parent connector Julie Michaels and Ms. Amanda as we
explore the basics of American Sign Language (ASL) and learn a few Hebrew
words for Shabbat! This is a wonderful opportunity for families with children
ages 6 months-6 years to learn together!
• 45 minutes of Sign Language fun
• Followed by snack and playtime in the JFamily Room
Meet Ms. Amanda Heikkila — a vibrant and joyful presence in our community!
With over 10 years of experience as an American Sign Language interpreter,
Amanda brings passion and heart to everything she does. As a proud Jewish mom
raising two little ones, she’s deeply committed to creating inclusive, fun,
and connected spaces. Amanda believes in the power of early communication and
is on a mission to help more families discover the magic of sign language —
especially with their babies. Her enthusiasm is contagious and makes learning
fun and engaging for kids and parents alike!
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/11800

Monthly Men’s Discussion Club
2025-06-10 11:00 - 12:00 | The J – Detroit 6600 W Maple Rd, West Bloomfield
To register, e-mail
([REDACTED]/) or call
(248) 432-5418
Monthly Men’s Discussion Club
Meets the first Tuesday of the month
11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Facilitated by Alex Resin
To register, e-mail
([REDACTED]/) or call
(248) 432-5418
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/10095

Ageless & Active Matter of Balance Class
2025-06-10 13:00 - 15:00 | The J – Detroit 6600 W Maple Rd, West Bloomfield Township
To register,
e-mail([REDACTED]/)**or
call (248) 432-5418 **
Improve Your Balance. Worry Less About Falls. Be More Active.
A Matter of Balance classes are designed for people 60 and up. There is no
cost. The classes help seniors:

Work on balance
Prevent falls
Reduce the fear of falling
Build confidence and be more active
Classes include practical tips and techniques, along with confidence-building
and mobility exercises.

Classes meet for two hours a week for eight weeks.
Presented in partnership with AgeWays.
To register,
e-mail([REDACTED]
call (248) 432-5418 **
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/11579

CarFit with Ageless & Active
2025-06-12 11:00 - 13:00 | The J – Detroit 6600 W Maple Rd, West Bloomfield Township
To register,
e-mail([REDACTED]/)**or
call (248) 432-5418 **
CarFit with The J’s Ageless and Active
Thursday, June 12, 11 AM – 1 PM
FREE
Trained experts show you how you can enhance your comfort, safety, and fit in
your car. Each appointment is 20 minutes. Space is limited.
To register,
e-mail([REDACTED]
call (248) 432-5418 **
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/11578
