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May 17, 2002/Sivan 6, 5762, Vol. 54, No.35
We can do it!EditorialWant to see evidence of what a "can-do" attitude can do?Take a drive along Scottsdale Road between Cactus and Thunderbird roads and see a veritable Phoenix rising, the new Ina Levine Jewish Community Campus. The outer walls and roof are up, inside, it's still hard-hat territory, but even a quick tour of the new facility left guests at the recent "topping off" ceremony incredulous. It's an expansive, welcoming space, set against a spectacular mountain backdrop and the Valley's perennially blue skies. A focal point are the mosaic panels depicting the story of creation, rescued from the old JCC on Maryland Avenue in central Phoenix and now being installed at the new building. They are suffused with meaning - a look back for those who remember the old JCC and a look ahead for those who envision our vibrant Jewish future. A Jewish neighborhood is what Valley residents asked for, says Mark Shore, executive director of the Valley of the Sun Jewish Community Center, lead tenant in the 114,000-foot facility. And that, says Shore, is what they are getting. The new structure, home to the Jewish Federation of Greater Phoenix and three of its constituent agencies, as well as a Jewish preschool and day school, will offer a raft of services from infant care to senior programs on its 20-acre site. Its preschool, almost at capacity with 191 children enrolled, is evidence of the demand for its services. After-school programming will take advantage of the center's computer center, dance and art studios and Olympic size swimming pool. Adult programming promises lectures, classes and other cultural offerings, as well as use of the center's state-of-the-art fitness facility. The building is cutting edge, its programming replete with myriad opportunities for the community to come together, to learn, to grow, to create that Jewish neighborhood. What's needed is you. To date, 519 families or individuals have signed on as center members. Shore says that organizers project a 900-member unit base by the time the center opens its doors in mid-September. Annual fees range from $600 for singles to $859 for couples to $1,000 for families. If you've not yet joined, consider being part of the center family. Take advantage of the "hard hat" tours offered later this summer to see what you could be missing. As a community we've proven we can do it. And we will - with you. |
