Member Update August ’25

Summer camp has ended, school is starting, who knows if we’ll have a monsoon season, football is right around the corner, and things are rocking here at The J.

 

Camp:  A very big thank you to all of you who participated and entrusted us with creating a terrific and safe summer experience. And thank you to our members for managing a very high energy and noisy summer at The J. It’s appreciated.

Last Splash: Thanks to all who’ve attended our Summer Splash pool parties throughout the summer. We absolutely loved seeing all of you there. And we have one more coming on Sunday, August 31, from 11 am – 1 pm. As always there’s no cost and the DJ, activities, food and drink are included. It’s an end of summer bash – to register go here.

Parking Lot: Please remember lots of people (including a ton of kids) walk in the lot.

  • Please stay off your phones when driving in and out of the facility.
  • The stop signs are there for a reason. So, please stop!
  • And please remember if leaving via the Sweetwater exit it is left turn only.

Club J: Our Club J afterschool program has started. With some incredible new enrichment classes, it’s a bit different and better than ever. It is not too late to jump onboard – check it out here!

Membership: Know someone who just might be interested in joining The J. Bring them and we will gladly provide them a guest pass to “try us out.” When (yes, being positive) they join and let us know that you referred them, you’ll receive a free month of membership. A true win-win!

The J Gala 2025: Our annual Gala is set for Saturday evening, December 13, at the Arizona Biltmore. The Willian S. Levine Family Community Excellence Award honorees are Rachel and Jonathan Hoffer. With extraordinary honorees, great entertainment (comedian Elon Gold and afterparty band, JB Project out of LA) and lots of extras, it will be a great, great night.

The event is chaired by Sara Schneider and Ben Myers, and sponsorship opportunities are available (contact me if interested) and watch for ticket information coming soon.

Early Childhood: We’re incredibly excited about our upcoming Early Childhood year. Led by our new co-directors, Mary Passell and Amanda Watsky, and an incredible group of teachers, it’s going to be an amazing year. There are limited openings available, please contact Amanda for more information.

Adult Sports: Our inaugural Summer Slam 3×3 basketball tournament tips-off on August 23 and August 24. Divided by skill level, this is YOUR chance to show off your game on the court and be #1. Got game? Show us. Register here.

Jewish Community Day with the Diamondbacks: Let’s enjoy America’s pastime together on Sunday, August 10, as we catch the Dbacks and Rockies with our Jewish community and allies! First pitch is at 1:10pm. Sponsored by Center for Jewish Philanthropy.  Get your tickets here.

Fitness: The weight room and personal training have been cooking. Just a few reminders:

  • Please wear the appropriate attire including closed toe shoes.
  • Weight room etiquette – If you put plates on a bar or machine, please remove them when you are done with that piece of equipment.
  • Please be considerate of others – Do not take calls, Facetime, text, etc. while sitting on a piece of equipment.

Corporate Partners: The support we get from our corporate partners plays a significant role in how we provide our programs and services. We truly appreciate all they do. For information on our Corporate Partner Program contact Adam and welcome to some of our newest partners, Prata Health and AZ Perfect Comfort!

The Power of Yes: Join fellow J member Tim Pohlman, Founder and CEO of Elevate to Elite, on Wednesday, October 29, from Noon to 1 pm at The J for “The Power of Yes: Embracing Positivity, Pursuing Goals & Growing.” Not your typical motivational talk — it’s a fast-paced, interactive experience packed with practical tools, real-world stories, and contagious energy that will leave you inspired to act. Admission is free and lunch will be provided. For more information, please contact Tim Pohlman or me.

 

Thank you for being a huge part of our J family. As we move on into fall our commitment remains – to meet and hopefully exceed your expectations every time you come into the facility. We look forward to seeing you here at The J.

 

Have a great weekend,
Jay

Jay Jacobs
Jay is the Valley of the Sun JCC Chief Executive Officer and The J is a way of life for him. He has been involved with the movement for more than 40 years and brings his passion for The J and all it represents for the community to his work in creating a true “center for life.” Born and raised in Pittsburgh, Jay is a die-hard Steelers and Penn State fan, so steer clear if they lose. He also enjoys running, hiking, and backyard living.

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