BEACHWOOD, Ohio -- Mandel JCC to host free open house Jan. 26: The Mandel Jewish Community Center is inviting all to its popular, annual free open house to be held from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 26. Attendees can enjoy all The J has to offer at no cost.
The Mandel JCC is located at 26001 South Woodland Road in Beachwood.
The day's lineup of events looks like this:
-- Health Screenings from 9 a.m.-noon: Health screenings will be conducted by UH Community Outreach staff, including blood pressure, blood glucose and cholesterol checks.
-- Family Fun 9:30-11:30 a.m.: Join PJ Library families for fun and activities, including open gym with inflatables, bikes, trikes, balls and mats.
-- Work Out for Free: Use facilities in the full fitness center (ages 13 and over), including basketball courts, indoor pool, track, pickleball, racquetball, steam room and sauna.
-- Group Exercise Classes: 9:30 a.m. Cycling; 9:35 a.m. Power Vinyasa Yoga; 9:35 a.m. WERQ; 10:45 a.m. POUND; 11:30 a.m. Beginner Tai Chi; pool and whirlpools; 8-10:10 a.m. open swim; 10:15-11:45 a.m. women's only swim; 11:45 a.m.-5:45 p.m. family swim.
Vendors will include Be Believe Become, Good Vibes Tea, SAYoga Wisdom Jewelry, and Tri-Juice Bar.
Individuals who become members of The J during the open house will get 50 percent off their February fee, with no joining fee, and a gift bag.
For more information about the open house, call 216-831-0700, ext. 0. For full details, visit here.
Top science scholar: University School senior Vishwum Kapadia, of Orange, was named by the Society for Science as a scholar in the 2025 Regeneron Science Talent Search, the nation's oldest and most prestigious science and math competition for high school seniors.
Kapadia is one of 300 scholars selected from nearly 2,500 applicants, and only one of three selected in Ohio.
Kapadia's research project, "Change in Dicrotic Notch Index Predicts Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair for Mitral Regurgitation," focuses on using changes in this cardiovascular marker to predict outcomes in patients undergoing minimally invasive mitral valve repair.
"Vishwum's passion for science -- particularly cardiology -- has been remarkable," said Director of Science Research at University School Dr. Sara Laux, in a release. "Beginning his research journey in middle school and intensifying it during his sophomore year, Vishwum's multifaceted investigations have earned him this well-deserved recognition.
"I couldn't be prouder of how he has excelled as both an academic scholar and a critical thinker. Vishwum is destined to make a significant mark in the field of science."
"Over the last two years, I've had the opportunity to perform cardiovascular research at the Cleveland Clinic," said Kapadia. "Through my research, I've learned to analyze patient data, perform advanced statistics, and work together with cardiologists and research fellows.
"This experience has not only enriched me but also given me a glimpse into the medical field, solidifying my interests and convincing me to pursue a career in medicine in the future."
The Regeneron Science Talent Search received entrants from 795 high schools from 48 states, American Samoa, Guam, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and 14 other countries, as U.S. citizens living abroad are eligible to apply. Scholars were chosen based on their outstanding research, leadership skills, community involvement, commitment to academics, creativity in asking scientific questions, and exceptional promise as STEM leaders, demonstrated through the submission of their original, independent research projects, essays, and recommendations.
Regeneron Scholars each receive a $2,000 award with an additional $2,000 going to their school. Forty finalists will be announced on Jan. 23.
Justice Jackson's book topic of club discussion: "Lovely One: A Memoir" by U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson will be the topic of the Black History Month book discussion from 10-11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 22 at East View United Church of Christ, 17300 Van Aken Blvd. in Shaker Heights.
This is an earlier time than discussions.
Justice Jackson writes of her family's rise from segregation to her becoming the first African-American woman to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court. She also speaks on balancing a high-powered career with being a wife and mother.
The discussion is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served. The Women's Guild of East View Church will host this special Black History Month book discussion.
Retiring rabbi: Congregation Mishkan Or recently shared Rabbi Rob Nosanchuk's decision to retire in 2026 from the congregational rabbinate. The Congregation's newsletter states that the recent cancer survivor wants to embrace his "bonus time" after achieving remission from Stage IV cancer.
He shared enthusiasm for the work ahead into 2026, when he will complete 25 years as a congregational rabbi. To see his video message, visit here.
The Board of Directors of Congregation Mishkan Or states that it will soon undertake a "thoughtful and inclusive search process" for its next senior rabbi.
It will work with Central Conference of American Rabbis, which provides resources and training for congregations to work toward smooth placement and clergy transition. Later this winter, search committee co-chairs will be named. Then, a search committee will be formed and the Board will provide updates and opportunities for input as the search progresses.
UH fundraising campaign reaches $1.5 billion: University Hospitals announced Jan.16 that its "Because of You: The Campaign for University Hospitals" campaign has received more than $1.5 billion in community support towards its ambitious $2-billion goal.
Because of You aims to make a significant and enduring impact in five key areas: caring for children, transforming cancer care, leading discovery and innovation, investing in the community, and embracing emerging priorities.
"University Hospitals was established by the community, for the community," said UH CEO Dr. Cliff A. Megerian. "Throughout our 158-year history, we have embraced change and faced challenges with resilience, sustained by the support and passion of those we serve. This milestone in our campaign reflects the faith our community has in UH and the gratitude they have for our caregivers."
Like hospital systems across the country, UH has faced myriad operational strains post-pandemic, including labor shortages, rising drug prices, and Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement rates that fail to cover the growing costs of care.
"The shifting healthcare landscape has necessitated difficult decisions over recent years, but UH continues to navigate the storm by focusing, first and foremost, on those it serves," said campaign co-chair Shelly Adelman, in a release.
"High-quality, compassionate care is a UH hallmark," added campaign co-chair Dee Haslam. "The community celebrates this care through their charitable giving."
Learn more about Because of You: The Campaign for University Hospitals at UHgiving.org/BecauseofYou.
Learn about Shaker Heights' relationship with trees: The Shaker Historical Society is inviting the community to the museum (16740 South Park Blvd.) from 6-8 p.m. Jan. 23 for a special reception celebrating "May Fortune Be Kind and Give Us Trees," an exhibition exploring the intertwined history of nature and community in Shaker Heights.
Attendees can enjoy wine and light refreshments with Executive Director Brianna Treleven while learning how trees have shaped the history and identity of the garden-style suburb.
"Tree-lined streets remain a beloved hallmark of Shaker Heights, but the city's relationship with trees throughout history goes beyond aesthetics," Treleven said, in a release.
For centuries, trees have played an integral role in the development of Shaker Heights, from the North Union Shakers' Holy Grove, to the city's Garden City inspiration and its present-day designation as a Tree City U.S.A., reflecting a deep-rooted and enduring connection to the landscape.
May Fortune Be Kind and Give Us Trees is on view in the Shaker Historical Society's first-floor gallery through March 2. The exhibition is made possible with support from Bartlett Tree Experts and the residents of Cuyahoga County through a public grant from Cuyahoga Arts & Culture.
Questions about the exhibition or reception can be directed to [email protected].
For more information, visit www.shakerhistory.org.
Calling civic-minded residents: The city of Cleveland Heights is seeking civic-minded residents interested in sharing their perspectives on city matters.
The city has a number of volunteer boards and commissions that periodically have openings upon which residents can apply to serve. Currently, those boards and commissions seeking members include: the Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC), which has three vacancies, specifically for a resident living in Caledonia and Fairfax, and at large; the Civil Service Commission, one vacancy; the Commission on Aging, two vacancies; the Parks and Recreation Youth Advisory Board, for the 9-18-seat board; and the Transportation and Mobility Committee' s one vacancy.
Piano Cleveland Live: Piano Cleveland will present a concert in its Live series at 6 p.m. Feb. 5 at Forest City Brewing.
The concert will feature pianist Arseniy Gusev and violinist Shannon Lee.
To learn more about the performers and future local concerts, visit here.
Trivia Night at synagogue: Beth El-The Heights Synagogue, 3246 Desota Ave.in Cleveland Heights, will hold its second annual Trivia Night at 7:15 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 22 with Rabbi Michael Ungar serving as MC.
Gather a table of eight or fewer participants and register by sending their names to Natalie Barratt, [email protected].
Pre-registration is required by Feb. 10. Suggested donation is $15 per person, which can be paid through the "Donate" button on the BE-THS web site, bethelheights.org.
Refreshments will be served to help bolster brain power. The table with the most points at the end will get bragging rights and prizes for the players.
For more information, call the synagogue at 216-320-9667.
Mandel JDS to honor retiring Spector: The Mandel Jewish Day School , 26500 Shaker Blvd. in Beachwood, is honoring Leah Spector upon her retirement after more than 30 years of work.
The school, which refers to Spector as "the heart and soul of the Agnon/Mandel JDS school community," will hold a gala in her honor May 18.
Those who cannot attend on May 18 can show appreciation and love by participating in a tribute book to be compiled.
Medial Examiner's Office Citizens Academy: Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner Dr. Thomas Gilson has announced the return of the popular Citizens Academy program. The Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner's Office is now accepting applications for the academy, which is set to begin on April 10.
The academy, held at the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner's Office, will meet from 6-8 p.m. Thursday evenings. Residents can expect to participate in lectures, case reviews, and hands-on demonstrations from doctors, scientists, and investigators. Some of the topics include forensic pathology, toxicology, death investigation, trace evidence, and more.
"The Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner's Office Citizens Academy is a unique program that offers our county residents an opportunity to see the inner workings of the death investigation process and crime laboratory," said Dr. Gilson, in a release. "Participants join members of the agency one night a week for about three months to learn about the many services the office provides.
The Citizens Academy is free of charge and open to all eligible residents. To be eligible, participants must reside in Cuyahoga County, be at least 21 years old, and have a record clean of felony convictions.
For more information or to download the application, visit cuyahogacounty.gov/medical-examiner/resources/citizens-academy.
All applications should be completed and submitted by Feb. 28. Applications may be submitted via e-mail to [email protected].
JCU aiding caddies: John Carroll University has announced its selection as a new national partner institution for the Evans Scholars Foundation (ESF), a prestigious scholarship program overseen by the Western Golf Association (WGA).
Recently recognized as the Scholarship Provider of the Year by the National Scholarship Providers Association, the ESF provides full housing and tuition scholarships to student golf caddies with limited financial means.
The first cohort of Evans Scholars will enroll at JCU in the fall of 2026. It is expected that approximately 50 such scholars will eventually attend John Carroll.
"We are honored to be chosen as an Evans Scholarship partner and look forward to helping these remarkable students achieve their academic and personal aspirations," said JCU President Alan R. Miciak, in a release. "This program exemplifies our shared commitment to fostering leadership and service, and providing access to education."
By joining the program, John Carroll University becomes the 27th institution and the sixth private college to partner with the Evans Scholars Program.
Currently, 1,190 students nationwide are attending 24 leading universities on the Evans Scholarship.
The Evans Scholarship is available to students who caddied regularly while in high school. To be eligible for the scholarship, students must apply during their freshman year of high school and demonstrate strong academic achievement, leadership skills, and exceptional character.
A unique aspect of the Evans Scholars Program is the opportunity for students to live together as a cohort on their respective college campuses, a feature available at most partner schools. JCU will continue that tradition, providing students the opportunity to reside together in one of its seven residence halls.
This shared residential experience teaches students life skills in communication, leadership, and mentoring, while fostering a strong sense of community.
Evans Scholars have a cumulative GPA of 3.3 and a 98-percent graduation rate. An estimated 40 percent are first-generation college students, and 95 percent are employed or enrolled in graduate school within six months of graduating.
Since the Evans Scholars Foundation was founded in 1930, it has helped more than 12,285 young men and women graduate from college, with alumni going on to become top leaders in their respective fields.