Jeremiah Programs, Volunteers, Friends and Family
COOL KID DUSTIN COOPER LOVES BONDS HE FORMS WHILE HELPING SPECIAL NEEDS ADULTS
Thursday, February 26, 2015
LOS ANGELES (KABC) --
Our ABC7 Cool Kid for Thursday, Feb. 26 is Dustin Cooper, who works with the Jeremiah Society, a group that helps to improve the lives of special needs adults. Dustin talks about his friend Marvin, who is one of the people he met in the program. "He gives me joy in my life because most of the time I didn't get to be with any of these people two years ago," he said. He said a group of special needs adults came to his temple and meeting them is what inspired him to join the program. Dustin wants to be there to help the adults in any way he can, and he feels he gets back much more than he gives. "Well I've known them for around two years now and they all know me. Every time I go up to them in the morning, they go, 'Hi, Dustin.' They're all used to me now so it's good," he said. He added that the bond he has with the adults is unlike any other he has experienced. Dustin is a cool kid who reaches out to adults who truly appreciate that special connection. "Since I only see them once a month it's harder to say bye...with these adults it's hard. I like them a lot," he said.
Thursday, February 26, 2015
LOS ANGELES (KABC) --
Our ABC7 Cool Kid for Thursday, Feb. 26 is Dustin Cooper, who works with the Jeremiah Society, a group that helps to improve the lives of special needs adults. Dustin talks about his friend Marvin, who is one of the people he met in the program. "He gives me joy in my life because most of the time I didn't get to be with any of these people two years ago," he said. He said a group of special needs adults came to his temple and meeting them is what inspired him to join the program. Dustin wants to be there to help the adults in any way he can, and he feels he gets back much more than he gives. "Well I've known them for around two years now and they all know me. Every time I go up to them in the morning, they go, 'Hi, Dustin.' They're all used to me now so it's good," he said. He added that the bond he has with the adults is unlike any other he has experienced. Dustin is a cool kid who reaches out to adults who truly appreciate that special connection. "Since I only see them once a month it's harder to say bye...with these adults it's hard. I like them a lot," he said.
"Beauty Within Us"
 Lew, Gloria and Howard Polin
A Torah reading with blessings led by Lew Polin, his wife Gloria, and son Howard, made the connection of ancient and contemporary Bible portions. Also a discussion of the story of Rachel and how beauty always retains its radiance.
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Dancing with the "Jeremiah" Stars...
 Ann Bendroff and Members
Ann Bendroff leading members in Israeli dances. Nigun Atik, Tzadic Katamar and Lo Ahavti Dai have great melodies and movement.
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Let My People Go with Bobbi Adler
 Member Cathy Reh and Bobbi Adler
Cathy Reh and Music Therapist Bobbi Adler led the group in singing "We Shall Overcome" and "Let My people Go" with discussions about overcoming prejudice and discrimination. |
Amazing "Bassoonist" Guest Star
 Tyne Hillgrimson
Tyne Hillgrimson, from Canada, played pieces by Mozart, and Peter and the Wolf by Prokofiev on her bassoon. She explained about the instrument and that it is made out of rosewood. She is currently being mentored by Bobbi Adler as a Music Therapist. |
"Chanukah O Chanukah we'll light the Menorah" lyrical words sung by over 60 people at Jeremiah's Chanukah celebration at Heritage Pointe, who provided a lovely welcoming environment for members, volunteers and guests. Rabbi Moishe Engel exuded and reflected his love, laughter and learning for Judaism and Jeremiah. We feasted on latkas, song and gifts from Temple Beth El's Men's Club. Thank you Temple Beth El!
Photo by Richard Becker
Sukkot: The Jewish "Thanksgiving"
We were all treated to another edition of "Lew's News That You Can Use" as we enjoyed being together in the beautiful Sukkah that Temple Bat Yahm built.
The Festival of Sukkot begins on the fifth day after Yom Kippur. It is quite a drastic transition, from one of the most solemn holidays in our year to one of the most joyous holidays of the year.
On Sukkot we give thanks and praise to God for the food that we enjoy. Sukkot is the Feast of Tabernacles on which Hebrews were commanded to make a pilgrimage to the Temple in Jerusalem.
All natives of Israel shall dwell in booths. Leviticus 23:42
On Sukkot we give thanks and praise to God for the food that we enjoy. Sukkot is the Feast of Tabernacles on which Hebrews were commanded to make a pilgrimage to the Temple in Jerusalem.
All natives of Israel shall dwell in booths. Leviticus 23:42
June 2011
The Jeremiah Society Celebrates 25 Years!
Rose Lacher Turns 90 Years Young
A party was held for Rose Lacher's 90th birthday and
in celebration of The Jeremiah Society's 25th Silver Anniversary.
Presentations were made, songs were sung, and our crowd hosted
"A Fabulous Event"!
The Golden Girls Arrive...
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Like a "Pair of Bookends"
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Rose looked adorable in her beautiful green "birthday suit". The cake was delicious!!! Seated from left to right: Amy and Rose Lacher, Hilary Sontag and Sheldon Lacher.
Rosh Hashana The Jewish New Year
A Man with Many Talents...
Richard Becker, volunteer extraordinaire, brought the Shofar, sounded it, pre-stenciled the banner, and took the fantastic group photo as well! Thanks for your photographic talents Richard! We are so happy to have you with us! The Jeremiah Society |
Oy, Watch out Vanna White!
Jeannie Figueroa shows off her custom made songbook. The Jeremiah members enjoy arts & crafts, singing and dancing together each month... where else can you have this much fun? We love you Jeannie! The Jeremiah Society |
All were treated to another memorable segment of "Lew's News You Can Use" by Lew Polin with specially prepared readings and blessings, singing with Bobbi Adler and Rabbi Zylberman, sounding of the Shofar by Richard Becker, Israeli dancing with Ann Bendroff and daughter Elana, and, a beautiful banner that was artfully decorated, led by Sharon Perlmuter. Snacks were provided by our important kitchen volunteers Stuart Zysman and Gloria Polin. Also, Zack Endres, our very out-going teenage volunteer, eagerly helped out with everything!
Many of the members and volunteers each performed a 'Mitzvah' by bringing non-perishable food items for the TBY food drive to help the needy.
Members, Friends, Parents, Volunteers, Professionals
and Rabbi Gersh Zylberman
Annual BBQ
Howard Polin and Robin Weingart lead in singing Havenu Shalom Aleichem
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"Lews News That You Can Use"
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The Mitzvah Mavens prepared the "absolutely delectable lunch" The Mitzvah Mavens
No one walked away hungry.
The many smiles and helpful friends made our day fun and remarkable!
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Myrna Capsuto led one of her patented "Life's Lessons" Segments
 Arline and Myrna
"Take care of yourself, breathe to
relieve stress, and how you can help others by treating them with dignity and respect". All fantastic tips for living 'A Good Life'.
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Bingo, Ice Cream and Karaoke Fun
July at Temple Bat Yahm
"Does anyone have N3"
 Henry Liss
New Volunteer, Henry Liss, calls
out Bingo numbers and everybody won prizes! Henry is the TBY Chair of this year's Food Drive. |
DJ George Putnam and his Tunes
 George Putnam
The "Best DJ in the West"
George Putnam has an extensive music library... with every kind of song you could ever think of! We enjoyed singing Kareoke and we danced our socks off! |
Cathy Kreiger aka
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Keeping Cool in the Summer
 The Jeremiah Society
Posing in front of the artistic picture boards and Rose Lacher's 90th birthday card. |
Read and scroll down and you will see a sampling of the "thank you" notes written by The Jeremiah Society Members. We couldn't print them all, however, they are all so special and meaningful.
Dear Sharon Perlmuter and Lew Polin,
Thank you Sharon for stories during every Jewish Holiday from your books that you brought from your school. And, thank you to Lew Polin for your history lessons in Jewish history.
From Peter K.
Dear Toby,
Thank you for introducing me to The Jeremiah Society back in December 1989. We have, as far as I know, been doing programs in four buildings - and in four different cities (Garden Grove, Costa Mesa, Irvine, and Newport Beach where we are now - and, I call our building "The Toby"!) I can't wait to tell you all about it, Toby!
Love, from Your Cousin Marty F.
Dear Ann Bendroff,
Thank you for teaching us to dance. It is very helpful to us. I really enjoy this. You are the best dance teacher we have ever had. I think I miss you very much in between programs. Please keep teaching us, and if it's ever possible, please give us Israeli dance costumes.
From Fayanne G.
Dear Sharon,
For helping with Jeremiah Programs and for reading Bible stories.
Your cousin Paul F.
Dear Ann Bendroff,
You are a very nice dance teacher. I enjoy dancing and the music.
From Howard P.
Dear Bobbi,
I'd like to thank you for my guitar lessons. I love you.
Love, Cathy K.
Dear Rabbi Engel,
Thanks for the Hannukah party. I like to go up there and light the Hanukkah candles.
From Gideon
Dear Sharon Perlmuter and Lew Polin,
Thank you Sharon for stories during every Jewish Holiday from your books that you brought from your school. And, thank you to Lew Polin for your history lessons in Jewish history.
From Peter K.
Dear Toby,
Thank you for introducing me to The Jeremiah Society back in December 1989. We have, as far as I know, been doing programs in four buildings - and in four different cities (Garden Grove, Costa Mesa, Irvine, and Newport Beach where we are now - and, I call our building "The Toby"!) I can't wait to tell you all about it, Toby!
Love, from Your Cousin Marty F.
Dear Ann Bendroff,
Thank you for teaching us to dance. It is very helpful to us. I really enjoy this. You are the best dance teacher we have ever had. I think I miss you very much in between programs. Please keep teaching us, and if it's ever possible, please give us Israeli dance costumes.
From Fayanne G.
Dear Sharon,
For helping with Jeremiah Programs and for reading Bible stories.
Your cousin Paul F.
Dear Ann Bendroff,
You are a very nice dance teacher. I enjoy dancing and the music.
From Howard P.
Dear Bobbi,
I'd like to thank you for my guitar lessons. I love you.
Love, Cathy K.
Dear Rabbi Engel,
Thanks for the Hannukah party. I like to go up there and light the Hanukkah candles.
From Gideon
Memories over the years...
(Slide show below plays automatically or you may click on the photo to view it).
Volunteers (from left to right)
Lew and Gloria Polin, Sharon Perlmuter, Stuart Zysman, Myrna Capsuto, Gail and Scott Smith, Rabbi Moishe Engel of Chabad, Hilary Sontag, Anvar Alfi, Rita Conn, Lisa Conn, The Mitzvah Mavens, Jessica Barraco, James Romesburg, Debbie Drucker, Sheldon Lacher, Richard Becker, Henry Liss and Benjamin Singer
In April, we re-visited the meaning of Passover, enjoyed a Seder,
sang Jewish songs and participated in Israeli Folk dancing.
Guests
Members Stories
Arline Swartz and her caregiver, Ador (From the Bragg Home in Irvine, CA)
Arline Swartz is a long-time and devoted member of The Jeremiah Society. Arline adds valuable input to discussions, to lend a caring ear to their concerns, and to share her wealth of life experiences. These days, when you see Arline at Jeremiah events, she is accompanied by her loving and skilled caregiver, Ador. Ador has his own family in The Phillipines, but he has extended his love and caring to Arline and her family! This love is reciprocated by Arline and her family. They all consider Ador part of their family and the "ultimate professional".
When Arline's mother was alive, Arline was a part-time caregiver to her mom. Since Arline had a driver's license, she drove her mom to appointments and vacations and helped her mom put on her artificial leg and administer her insulin injections. Both Arline and her mom spent many hours helping care for sister, Myrna's children. They took the children on many fun vacations. After their mom passed away, Arline lived with Myrna and her family for awhile. However, to help Arline become more independent, she moved out to her own apartment and became a client of Project Independence. Arline got her first job because she went to Beth Tikvah's Nursery School Director and asked if she could volunteer. After a short time, she showed that she was so valuable that they hired her. She was in that position for many years. Arline's other jobs included Michael's, Brea Mall Movie Theater, and a floral shop. In all of her positions, she showed that she was a caring and conscientious employee.
After Arline's back problems and surgeries, followed by complications, she could no longer live alone or with a roommate. She moved into a Group Home. At first she continued to be a client of OCARC and was even chosen Employee of the Year. Near and dear to Arline's heart is her family. Arline loves family dinners, holiday celebrations and celebrating the family's Simchas! Of course, there is her devoted sister, Myrna and Myrna's husband Mike. Her niece Sheryl is always there for her! She especially enjoys meeting Sheryl at the local Malls when she goes on outings with her day program, Vocational Visions. Arline looks forward to Sundays when she gets phone calls from her nephew Elliott and her great nephew, Brandon. Arline's niece's husband, Michael likes to make her laugh and Arline enjoy's Elliott's wife, Melissa's baking and cooking. All of her great nieces and nephews love her very much, (Jared, Brandon, Haley, Clare and Alexia).
Arline's health has declined and after two serious back surgeries, she was no longer able to walk very much. She now uses a power wheelchair and is living in the most wonderful of homes: The Bragg Home, where she has wonderful care by Ador and his staff. The most exciting thing that happened recently is that for a limited amount of walking, Arline is now able to use her walker with Ador standing behind her. The hope is that she will get stronger and more confident and be able to show off her skills to The Jeremiah Family!
Arline, We wish you good health in the New Year! The Jeremiah Society
When Arline's mother was alive, Arline was a part-time caregiver to her mom. Since Arline had a driver's license, she drove her mom to appointments and vacations and helped her mom put on her artificial leg and administer her insulin injections. Both Arline and her mom spent many hours helping care for sister, Myrna's children. They took the children on many fun vacations. After their mom passed away, Arline lived with Myrna and her family for awhile. However, to help Arline become more independent, she moved out to her own apartment and became a client of Project Independence. Arline got her first job because she went to Beth Tikvah's Nursery School Director and asked if she could volunteer. After a short time, she showed that she was so valuable that they hired her. She was in that position for many years. Arline's other jobs included Michael's, Brea Mall Movie Theater, and a floral shop. In all of her positions, she showed that she was a caring and conscientious employee.
After Arline's back problems and surgeries, followed by complications, she could no longer live alone or with a roommate. She moved into a Group Home. At first she continued to be a client of OCARC and was even chosen Employee of the Year. Near and dear to Arline's heart is her family. Arline loves family dinners, holiday celebrations and celebrating the family's Simchas! Of course, there is her devoted sister, Myrna and Myrna's husband Mike. Her niece Sheryl is always there for her! She especially enjoys meeting Sheryl at the local Malls when she goes on outings with her day program, Vocational Visions. Arline looks forward to Sundays when she gets phone calls from her nephew Elliott and her great nephew, Brandon. Arline's niece's husband, Michael likes to make her laugh and Arline enjoy's Elliott's wife, Melissa's baking and cooking. All of her great nieces and nephews love her very much, (Jared, Brandon, Haley, Clare and Alexia).
Arline's health has declined and after two serious back surgeries, she was no longer able to walk very much. She now uses a power wheelchair and is living in the most wonderful of homes: The Bragg Home, where she has wonderful care by Ador and his staff. The most exciting thing that happened recently is that for a limited amount of walking, Arline is now able to use her walker with Ador standing behind her. The hope is that she will get stronger and more confident and be able to show off her skills to The Jeremiah Family!
Arline, We wish you good health in the New Year! The Jeremiah Society
Exceptional Artists
Amazingly Gifted Individuals
Gloria Merle Lenhoff, Lyric Soprano
Lyric Suprano Gloria Lenhoff, a Williams Syndrome musical savant with absolute pitch, has a repertoire of over 2,000 pieces, including popular, religious, folk classical and opera, and sings in 30 foreign languages. Performances have taken her to England, Israel, Spain and venues throughout the United States. She has sung with lead mezzo sopranos around the US, including the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC. Her vocal talents have been featured on 60 Minutes, Nightline and Inside Edition. Currently Gloria studies voice with Dr. Gregory Rike of the University of Missippi and resides at the Baddour Memorial Center in Senatoba, MS.
This photograph was taken
on February 11, 2005. It was
on the eve of Gloria's 50th birthday
and on the stage of the music
auditorium at the University of Mississippi.
Williams Syndrome is an unusual condition that occurs in 1 out of 20,000 births irrespective of race. These individuals share a number of physical, behavioral, and cognitive traits. There is an unusual love for music and a range of musical abilities, some extremely high compared to those of the regular population.
Hear Gloria Sing!
View the You Tube Presentation of "Somewhere"
(Press arrow to play)
BONUS! After viewing there are more of Gloria's videos to play!
This photograph was taken
on February 11, 2005. It was
on the eve of Gloria's 50th birthday
and on the stage of the music
auditorium at the University of Mississippi.
Williams Syndrome is an unusual condition that occurs in 1 out of 20,000 births irrespective of race. These individuals share a number of physical, behavioral, and cognitive traits. There is an unusual love for music and a range of musical abilities, some extremely high compared to those of the regular population.
Hear Gloria Sing!
View the You Tube Presentation of "Somewhere"
(Press arrow to play)
BONUS! After viewing there are more of Gloria's videos to play!
In Memory of Dr. Howard M. Lenhoff (Jan. 27, 1929 - July 12, 2011)
Howard Polin, Needlepoint Artist
Howard Polin is good hearted with a kind soul. His good natured open communication makes you immediately comfortable. His solicitous inquiries let you know that he is all ears and ready to help. His consideration for others is always apparent.
Howard hails from Philadelphia. His parents, Lew and Gloria, and sister Debbie came to California in 1977. He is a doting uncle to his nephew Aaron. Howard lives on his own with support from Creative Support making meals, doing laundry and balancing a checkbook. He has worked at Ralph’s Supermarkets for 20 years and has been named as King of the Courtesy Clerks at his store more than a dozen times. He is recognized by many of his customers throughout the community and is greeted with big hellos and thanks.
Howard enjoys team sports and is a big Angels, Lakers and Clippers fan. He is also a big part of “Team Jeremiah.” When the Sunday program rolls around, he always thanks his parents for taking him to the Jeremiah Society because “I always enjoy it, especially the dance and movement with Ann Bendroff and music with Bobbi Adler.”
Howard has a wonderful artistic side demonstrated by needlepoint creations first learned with mom Gloria when he was eight years old. He has made many beautiful eyeglass cases and purses which he happily gives as gifts. We think Howard Polin is a gift himself and the Jeremiah Society is the richer for it.
Howard hails from Philadelphia. His parents, Lew and Gloria, and sister Debbie came to California in 1977. He is a doting uncle to his nephew Aaron. Howard lives on his own with support from Creative Support making meals, doing laundry and balancing a checkbook. He has worked at Ralph’s Supermarkets for 20 years and has been named as King of the Courtesy Clerks at his store more than a dozen times. He is recognized by many of his customers throughout the community and is greeted with big hellos and thanks.
Howard enjoys team sports and is a big Angels, Lakers and Clippers fan. He is also a big part of “Team Jeremiah.” When the Sunday program rolls around, he always thanks his parents for taking him to the Jeremiah Society because “I always enjoy it, especially the dance and movement with Ann Bendroff and music with Bobbi Adler.”
Howard has a wonderful artistic side demonstrated by needlepoint creations first learned with mom Gloria when he was eight years old. He has made many beautiful eyeglass cases and purses which he happily gives as gifts. We think Howard Polin is a gift himself and the Jeremiah Society is the richer for it.
