The J - Detroit

Michigan Watercolor Society Exhibition Opening Reception
2025-06-08 12:30 - 16:00 (America/Detroit) | 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, 2025-07-23 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, 2025-07-01 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, 2025-06-17 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-06-24 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-07-01 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-07-08 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-07-15 13:00 - 15:00, 2025-07-22 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

Modern Jewish Medical Ethics With Jill Gutmann
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

Mom's Night Out at Paddle + Par
2025-06-18 18:30 - 20:30 | Paddle + Par 31535 Southfield Rd, Beverly Hills
Grab your girls and let’s hit the court! Join us for a Mom’s Night Out of
pickleball playing at Paddle + Par! Whether you’re a seasoned player or have
never picked up a paddle, this event is perfect for all skill levels —
including beginners!
What to Expect:

Gather at 6:30 for girl talk and forming teams
Casual pickleball play starting at 7
Pros on-site to provide tips and instruction for all levels
One drink ticket will be provided
Additional beverage and food available for purchase
Great vibes and even better company!

Space is limited, so grab your spot today and get ready for a well-deserved
mom’s night out!
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/11518

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

TreeRunner Adventure Park Pop-Up
2025-06-29 09:30 - 12:30 | TreeRunner Adventure Park & Mini Golf West Bloomfield 6200 Drake Rd, West Bloomfield
Get ready for a fun morning of outdoor adventure at TreeRunner Adventure Park-
West Bloomfield! Kids will climb, zip, and swing through the Aerial Forest AND
enjoy 18 holes of mini golf.

All necessary gear and instruction will be provided
Geared for ages 7-11
An adult must accompany children (1 to 3 ratio for 7-11 age range)
Siblings age 4+ welcome with an additional adult

Aerial Forest + Mini Golf Ticket (Age 7-11): $40
Sibling ticket for Junior Course (low ropes) + Mini Golf (age 4-6): $30
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/11539

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

Fore The Kids - Dr. Larry D Sills Memorial Golf Outing
2025-06-30 11:00 - 20:00 | Franklin Hills Country Club 31675 Inkster Rd, Franklin
The J’s Dr. Larry D. Sills Memorial Golf Outing is generously endowed by the
Sills family. Join us for an unparalleled golf experience at Franklin Hills
Country Club while making a lasting impact on children at The J. FORE THE KIDS
raises essential funds for scholarships, ensuring that every child—regardless
of financial ability—can experience the magic of summer at JCC Day Camps. Your
participation directly funds scholarships, giving children the opportunity to
grow, explore, and belong. A gift of $550 can send a child to camp for one
week.
Schedule of Events:
11:00 AM Gourmet Food Truck Lunch
12:30 PM Shotgun Start
5:00 PM Live Entertainment and Cocktail Hour
6:00 PM BBQ Dinner
Enjoy a world-class golf course, recently renovated to enhance its classic
design and pristine conditions. As a guest at Franklin Hills Country Club,
you’ll experience:

Complimentary valet service upon arrival
Assigned locker access
Top-tier golf amenities on a course known for its excellence
Exceptional food and drinks throughout the day
Exclusive golf prizes
Meaningful community connections with fellow supporters

Play a round of golf and stay for dinner or join us in the evening for
cocktails and dinner.
Payment can be made online or we will be happy to bill you for payment.
If you wish to be invoiced or pay by check, please complete online
registration, selecting the payment method, "Pay Later." Please indicate "Fore
the kids" in the memo and mail checks to:
The J
ATTN: Development
6600 West Maple Road
West Bloomfield Township, MI 48322
﻿For sponsorships, and more information, please contact
([REDACTED]/)**or
248-432-5480.**
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/11530

Sharing Shabbat 2025-2026: Interest Form
2025-07-08 00:00 - 2025-09-03 00:00 | The J – Detroit 6600 W Maple Rd, West Bloomfield
Your Family’s Shabbat Adventure Starts Here!
Sharing Shabbat is a 7-month journey for families with children ages 0–11
to explore the joy of Shabbat together. Each month, your family will take part
in meaningful Shabbat experiences designed to help you connect — with the
traditions, with your own home rituals, and with other families in the
community.
Whether you’re new to town, part of an interfaith family, or simply looking to
build lasting connections, Sharing Shabbat offers a welcoming space for
everyone.
🍽️ 4 Home-Hosted Shabbat Meals: Friday night dinner or Saturday
brunch/lunch

Families will be placed into small cohorts that will gather in each other’s homes to celebrate Shabbat in a warm and relaxed setting.
Each host will receive a Sharing Shabbat Host Kit filled with helpful resources and goodies to enhance the experience, including a gift challah to Dakota Bread or Zeman’s Bakery.
Not comfortable hosting in your home? No problem! We still welcome your application and will work with you to find a way for your family to participate.

🌟 All participating families will enjoy these experiences:

Opening Shabbat Dinner & Art Workshop
Chanukah Celebration
Challah Bake
Closing Havdalah Celebration

These shared events bring everyone together to build community, celebrate
Jewish traditions, and create lasting memories.
Ready to join Sharing Shabbat?
After you complete your registration, you’ll receive an email with a link to
the application. Please be sure to submit the application by September
3rd. Once we receive it, a member of the JFamily team will reach out to
schedule a short Zoom conversation to get to know your family and learn more
about what you’re hoping for from your Sharing Shabbat experience.
Please complete the application (https://forms.gle/bodT5EVFiC1h3YXz9)!
Questions?
Contact Rachael Gerstein, JFamily Program Manager, at rgerstein@jccdet.org
— we’re happy to help!
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/12021

Sharing Shabbat 2025-2026: Interest Form
2025-07-08 00:00 - 2025-11-03 00:00 | The J – Detroit 6600 W Maple Rd, West Bloomfield
Your Family’s Shabbat Adventure Starts Here!
Sharing Shabbat is a 7-month journey for families with children ages 0–11
to explore the joy of Shabbat together. Each month, your family will take part
in meaningful Shabbat experiences designed to help you connect — with the
traditions, with your own home rituals, and with other families in the
community.
Whether you’re new to town, part of an interfaith family, or simply looking to
build lasting connections, Sharing Shabbat offers a welcoming space for
everyone.
🍽️ 4 Home-Hosted Shabbat Meals: Friday night dinner or Saturday
brunch/lunch

Families will be placed into small cohorts that will gather in each other’s homes to celebrate Shabbat in a warm and relaxed setting.
Each host will receive a Sharing Shabbat Host Kit filled with helpful resources and goodies to enhance the experience, including a gift challah to Dakota Bread or Zeman’s Bakery.
Not comfortable hosting in your home? No problem! We still welcome your application and will work with you to find a way for your family to participate.

🌟 All participating families will enjoy these experiences:

Opening Shabbat Dinner & Art Workshop
Chanukah Celebration
Challah Bake
Closing Havdalah Celebration

These shared events bring everyone together to build community, celebrate
Jewish traditions, and create lasting memories.
Ready to join Sharing Shabbat?
After you complete your registration, you’ll receive an email with a link to
the application. Please be sure to submit the application by September
3rd. Once we receive it, a member of the JFamily team will reach out to
schedule a short Zoom conversation to get to know your family and learn more
about what you’re hoping for from your Sharing Shabbat experience.
Please complete the application (https://forms.gle/bodT5EVFiC1h3YXz9)!
Questions?
Contact Stephanie Erez at serez@jccdet.org — we’re happy to help!
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/12021

Trip to the Flint Museum of Art
2025-07-10 10:30 - 13:30 | The J – Detroit 6600 W Maple Rd, West Bloomfield Township
To register,
e-mail([REDACTED]/)**or
call (248) 432-5418 **
Join The J’s Ageless & Active and JTraveler departments for a day trip to
the Flint Museum of Art!
Thursday, July 10
$82 (includes a box lunch)
To register,
e-mail([REDACTED]
call (248) 432-5418 **
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/11580

Atmospheric Watercolor Landscapes with Tina Hotchkiss
2025-07-13 10:00 - 16:00 | The J – Detroit 6600 W Maple Rd,
Atmospheric Watercolor Landscapes with Tina Hotchkiss
Dive into the enchanting world of watercolor painting with our course,
"Atmospheric Watercolor Landscapes," led by the inspiring artist Tina
Hotchkiss. This immersive experience invites you to explore the magical
interplay of water flow and gravity as you learn to create breathtaking
landscapes that capture the essence of nature.
Throughout this course, you will discover the art of color mixing, unlocking
the vibrant potential of your palette to create seamless gradations and
dynamic shapes that mimic the beauty of outdoor scenery. Tina will guide you
through each step, encouraging you to experiment with techniques that harness
the fluidity of watercolors to evoke atmospheric effects—whether it’s the soft
blush of dawn, the warmth of midday sun, or the cool tones of twilight.
Main Objectives:

Understand the fundamental principles of watercolor painting, focusing on
how water and gravity influence color application.
Color mixing techniques to create depth and dimension in your landscapes.

Develop a personal style while enjoying the creative process and embracing
experimentation.
Join us for an artistic journey where you will not only learn technical skills
but also cultivate a deeper appreciation for nature’s beauty. Whether you’re a
novice or an experienced painter looking to expand your repertoire, this
course promises a nurturing environment filled with inspiration, creativity,
and joy. Unleash your inner artist and let the flow of watercolors transform
your vision into stunning landscapes!
Sunday, July 13, 2025
10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., with a lunch break at noon- 1 p.m. (food not
provided, bring sack lunch)
$145 per person, materials included**
Registration Deadline: Sunday, July, 6, 2025
*A minimum of 6 students are needed to run the class. If the class is unable to take place, you will be fully refunded.
**Bring your favorite watercolor brushes if desired. What Tina Uses:
· Quill Princeton Neptune #6 brush
· Escoda Perla size #12 brush
· Liner Princeton Lauren #2
· Grey Matters Jack Richeson #2

View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/11377

Detroit JCC Maccabi Pre-Departure Meeting and Swag Pickup
2025-07-20 13:00 - 14:30 | The J – Detroit 6600 W Maple Rd,
Get excited for the 2025 JCC Maccabi Games! Join the Detroit Delegation Heads
for an overview of what’s ahead, important details about the week, and answers
to all your questions. Athletes will also pick up their official Detroit
Delegation backpack, filled with swag for the Games.
Plus, we’ll have media day photo opportunities — a chance to snap fun pictures
with teammates and commemorate the journey to the Games!
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/12191

ECC Pool Party with Goldfish Swim School
2025-07-21 17:30 - 19:30 | 6600 W Maple Rd 6600 W Maple Rd,
Join us for an ECC Swim Party with Goldfish Swim School. There will be a talk
on water safety and a visit from Bubbles the fish! Learn about a special
discount for ECC families to enroll in Goldfish swim classes, and enjoy time
together with friends from our ECC community. The Grille will be open for
dinner, and snacks will be provided!
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/12197

Pizza in the Park: A Slice of Summer Fun!
2025-07-23 16:30 - 18:00 | Reynolds Park , Huntington Woods
🍕Join Parent Connector Adina Goss for Pizza in the Park! ☀️
What better way to spend a summer evening than with pizza, play, and sunshine?
Bring the whole family for a relaxing night outdoors with delicious pizza, fun
activities, and great company. It’s the perfect recipe for summer fun!
This event is free to attend. A suggested donation of $25 helps us cover the
cost- thank you for your support!
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/11907

Splish Splash Bash!
2025-07-27 10:00 - 11:30 | Heritage Park 24915 Farmington Rd, Farmington Hills
JFamily and NEXTGen Detroit present Splish Splash Bash!
Beat the heat and join us for some summer fun at the Heritage Park Splash Pad,
Playground and Pavilion. We’ll have cooling (and kosher) treats for the grown-
ups and kiddos too!
Please register in advance by July 20th.
$18 per Family.
This in-person event is intended for families with children ages 0 to 11.
Thank you to our event chairs: Sharon Fass, Nicole MacWilliams, Hannah Biran
and Carly Pickel
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/11936

Dads' Night Out with JFamily - July
2025-07-28 20:00 - 22:00
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/12139
