Exhibit: Karen Treiger “Standing on the Crack”
2026-01-06 - 2026-02-28 | Stroum Jewish Community Center, 3801 E Mercer Way, Mercer Island, WA, United States
Seattle native, Karen Treiger’s second book “Standing on the Crack: The Legacy of Five Jewish Families from Seattle’s Gilded Age” and companion exhibit dive into the rich history of five families (including her own) who shaped Seattle’s early years, its retail culture, and Seattle’s Gilded Age from 1874 and 1913.
As Seattle grew from a small ramshackle town with dirt roads to a bustling metropolis with the Space Needle as our symbol and beacon of progress, these families transformed Seattle’s Jewish community and shaped Seattle’s retail culture.
Treiger tells Seattle’s history through the eyes of Jewish merchants who settled in the Pacific Northwest with hopes and dreams for themselves and their children. “Standing on the Crack” is full of tales, both funny and tragic, about ancestors that she knew and those she didn’t.
January 6 – February 28: Companion Exhibit on display during regular business hours (no registration required)
Part of the Chew on This! Speaker Series
In partnership with Jewish Book Council

ABOUT: After retiring from her law practice in 2015, Karen Treiger dedicated herself to researching and writing her family histories. After three years, she published her first book, “My Soul is Filled with Joy: A Holocaust Story” about the harrowing story of her in-laws, Sam and Esther Goldberg. For her second book, she decided explore her own family’s history and the immigrants who came here after WWII. Treiger was born in Seattle and educated at Barnard College and New York University Law School. She serves on the Seattle Holocaust Center for Humanity’s Speakers Bureau and served on the University of Washington Advisory Council for the Extension Writing Program. Her perspectives have been shared in the Forward, the Jewish Press, and the Washington State Pioneer Association Newsletter.

SJCC Venue + Box Office Policies

ALL SALES FINAL | NO REFUNDS | NO EXCHANGES | NO CREDITS
General admission | Doors open 30 min. before showtime.
Facility and processing fees apply at checkout.
Please view our Welcome to the J webpage for the latest policies, news, and information.
Patrons agree to all SJCC terms and conditions above and at SJCC Box Office + Venue Policies.

Need Help?
Contact BoxOffice@sjcc.org | 206-388-0833 (email best for a quick response!)
Visit SJCC Arts + Ideas Box Office for full list of policies.

Fitness Class: Total Body Sculpt
2025-07-15 06:15 - 07:15 (America/Los_Angeles)
Join us Tuesday and Thursday morning at 6:15 am for our advanced group fitness class – Total Body Sculpt led by SJCC instructor Nenna. Work on total body, fat burning, and muscle building incorporating bands, TRXs, dumbbells, and bodyweight movements that will keep you toned and fit.

BECOME A MEMBER: Not a member and want to try this class? Email denisei@sjcc.org for information on becoming a member, to take a tour of the J, or to try out this class. More membership information can be found here >>. For a full list of current SJCC policies and procedures for coming to the J… click here >>.

Fitness Class: TRX Suspension Training
2026-01-06 08:30 - 09:30
Join us at the J Tuesday mornings at 8:30 am for TRX Suspension Training, a weekly fitness class that is total body conditioning for all ages. This is an intermediate level course.

BECOME A MEMBER: Not a member and want to try this class? Email denisei@sjcc.org for information on becoming a member, to take a tour of the J, or to try out this class. More membership information can be found here >>. For a full list of current SJCC policies and procedures for coming to the J… click here >>.

Fitness Class: Aqua Fit
2026-01-01 09:00 - 10:00
Join us at the J’s indoor pool every weekday (Monday through Friday) at 9 am for our AquaFit beginner group fitness class led by our staff. Aqua Fit is a heart-pumping workout with no added impact on your joints.

BECOME A MEMBER: Not a member and want to try this class? Email denisei@sjcc.org for information on becoming a member, to take a tour of the J, or to try out this class. More membership information can be found here >>. For a full list of current SJCC policies and procedures for coming to the J… click here >>.

Fitness Class: Body Fit
2026-01-01 09:45 - 10:45
Body Fit blends cardio intervals, strength training, and core exercises for a total-body workout. The exercises are designed to be easily adjusted, making them suitable for all fitness levels. Held on Tuesday and Thursday at 9:45am

BECOME A MEMBER: Not a member and want to try this class? Email denisei@sjcc.org for information on becoming a member, to take a tour of the J, or to try out this class. More membership information can be found here >>. For a full list of current SJCC policies and procedures for coming to the J… click here >>.

Fitness Class: Zumba
2026-01-06 10:00 - 11:00
Join the J for Zumba® on Tuesdays at 10 am. This intermediate fitness class infuses targeted body sculpting into the cardio Zumba format.

BECOME A MEMBER: Not a member and want to try this class? Email denisei@sjcc.org for information on becoming a member, to take a tour of the J, or to try out this class. More membership information can be found here >>

Schwartz Early Childhood School Open House
2026-01-13 10:30 - 11:30
Attend our Schwartz ECS Open House for prospective families. Families will have the opportunity to learn more about our Reggio-inspired philosophy, hear what happens inside our classrooms each day, and tour our beautiful school environment.

During the open house, families will meet with members of our administrative team, who will guide the conversation, share insights into our program, and answer questions.

Fitness Class: Senior Strong
2026-01-06 11:00 - 12:00
Join us Tuesday at 11 am for our senior-focused beginner group fitness class, Senior Strong led by SJCC instructor Rochelle. A balanced class for strengthening heart, lungs, bones, muscles, and joints for Seniors who may chose to use a chair for options. No floor work included but each class features a focus and builds on skills of coordination and conditioning in a fun environment with music.

BECOME A MEMBER: Not a member and want to try this class? Email denisei@sjcc.org for information on becoming a member, to take a tour of the J, or to try out this class. More membership information can be found here >>. For a full list of current SJCC policies and procedures for coming to the J… click here >>.

A Legacy of Courage: Lunch and Learn
2026-01-13 12:00 - 13:00
Join us at the J for lunch, joined virtually by the Holocaust Center for Humanity.
A Legacy of Courage: My Father’s Life in Hiding During the Holocaust with Lorri Staal
Lorri Staal shares the remarkable story of her father, Abraham (“Aby”) Staal, who spent two years in hiding in the Netherlands during the Holocaust. Protected by members of the Dutch resistance, he survived thanks to the courage of ten families who risked their lives to shelter him. Decades later, Lorri reconnected with the descendants of his rescuers and traveled to the Netherlands to honor their bravery. In this moving presentation, she shares the experience of her father in hiding and pays tribute to those who chose humanity in the face of terror.
Lorri Staal is the Executive Director of Music of Remembrance and a member of the Holocaust Center for Humanity’s Speakers Bureau.
Endless Opportunities is a community program that offers weekday/daytime educational and social events for active adults to learn, socialize, laugh and make friends.
This event is full, to be added to the waitlist email: leslier@sjcc.org

Fitness Class: H.I.R.T - T/TH
2026-01-06 16:30 - 17:30
Join us Tuesday and Thursday with Leslie at 4:30 pm for our group fitness class, H.I.R.T. Intermediate (High Intensity Resistance Training) Short bursts of high-intensity exercise followed by short periods of rest. Designed to burn fat, build muscle, and improve cardiovascular conditioning and endurance.
H.I.R.T. intermediate is also offered at 9:30 am on Saturday.

BECOME A MEMBER: Not a member and want to try this class? Email denisei@sjcc.org for information on becoming a member, to take a tour of the J, or to try out this class. More membership information can be found here >>. For a full list of current SJCC policies and procedures for coming to the J… click here >>.

Community + Cocktails Membership Happy Hour
2026-01-13 17:00 - 19:00
Whether you’re a new member, a long-time J regular, or considering joining the J, you’re invited to the Community + Cocktails Happy Hour.
Start the new year with us and learn more about our fitness center, group fitness classes, personal training options, and other exciting offerings designed to help you reach your wellness goals. Discover our fitness programs and how the Jewish tradition of “Chazak, chazak” inspires us to finish strong, begin stronger, and step into the year with renewed strength and purpose.
Event Details:
– Drinks available for purchase at the J Café
– Light bites provided
– Drop in anytime — RSVP requested
– Adults 21+ only
Can’t make it to Sunday’s Open House?
Here’s another chance to join! New members who sign up during the Open House will have their join fee waived and receive one free month of membership. Plus, receive a free SJCC duffel bag and personal training session.
Join us to discover everything the J has to offer and kick off 2026 with community, connection, fun—and the spirit of chazak, chazak—beginning the year stronger together.

Fitness Class: Mindful Core Yoga
2026-01-01 18:00 - 19:00
Join us on Tuesday and Thursday at 6:00 pm for Mindful Core Yoga an intermediate group fitness class with Samara. All levels welcome to this practice that works the body, mind, and life force. With special focus on core strengthening and mindful awareness, this class will leave you feeling fabulous on all levels.

BECOME A MEMBER: Not a member and want to try this class? Email denisei@sjcc.org for information on becoming a member, to take a tour of the J, or to try out this class. More membership information can be found here >>. For a full list of current SJCC policies and procedures for coming to the J…click here >>.

Fitness Class: Advanced Bootcamp - Wednesday
2026-01-07 08:30 - 09:30
Join us for Advanced Bootcamp every Wednesday at 8:30 am. Work at your own pace with modifiable exercises that challenge your cardiovascular system and muscle strength. This workout is structured as circuits, where you move quickly from one station to the next.

BECOME A MEMBER: Not a member and want to try this class? Email denisei@sjcc.org for information on becoming a member, to take a tour of the J, or to try out this class. More membership information can be found here >>. For a full list of current SJCC policies and procedures for coming to the J… click here >>.

Fitness Class: Restorative Stretch - Wednesday
2026-01-07 09:45 - 10:45
Join us for our Restorative Stretch intermediate group fitness class on Wednesday mornings at 9:45 am. A full-body stretch from neck to ankles using a yoga strap and gravity. Whether pre- or post-workout, this is a great way to recover and renew the body.

BECOME A MEMBER: Not a member and want to try this class? Email denisei@sjcc.org for information on becoming a member, to take a tour of the J, or to try out this class. More membership information can be found here >>

Fitness Class: Chair Yoga
2026-01-07 11:00 - 12:00
Join SJCC group fitness instructor Nenna every Wednesday at 11 am for this unique fitness class, Chair Yoga. It is suitable for students unable to participate in a traditional yoga class. The class offers a practical alternative, as it deepens flexibility and strengthens personal body awareness.

BECOME A MEMBER: Not a member and want to try this class? Email denisei@sjcc.org for information on becoming a member, to take a tour of the J, or to try out this class. More membership information can be found here >>. For a full list of current SJCC policies and procedures for coming to the J…click here >>.

Fitness Class: Express Circuit
2026-01-14 16:30 - 17:00, 2026-01-14 17:15 - 17:45, 2026-01-14 18:00 - 18:30
A fast-paced, full-body circuit class is designed to maximize your time and results. You’ll move through a series of stations that challenge strength, cardio, and core—hitting every major muscle group in just 30 minutes. Participants should arrive already warmed up and ready to work. Once the clock starts, it’s an intense, nonstop circuit that builds strength, boosts endurance, and leaves you feeling accomplished. Perfect for anyone who wants an efficient, high-energy workout with no wasted time.

BECOME A MEMBER: Not a member and want to try this class? Email denisei@sjcc.org for information on becoming a member, to take a tour of the J, or to try out this class. More membership information can be found here >>. For a full list of current SJCC policies and procedures for coming to the J… click here >>.

Fitness Class: Step Class - Thursday
2026-01-01 08:30 - 09:30
Join us for our Step Class led by Nenna at the J Thursday mornings at 8:30 am. Nenna will lead you in this classic cardio workout. Step classes begin with a dynamic warm-up, followed by active, choreographed cardiovascular exercises targeting different muscle groups.

BECOME A MEMBER: Not a member and want to try this class? Email denisei@sjcc.org for information on becoming a member, to take a tour of the J, or to try out this class. More membership information can be found here >>. For a full list of current SJCC policies and procedures for coming to the J…click here >>.

Fitness Class: Balance + Stability
2026-01-01 11:00 - 12:00
Join us Thursday mornings at the J for our Balance + Stability beginner group fitness class at 11 am. Balance and Stability where you will work on your balance, core strength, and overall stability to strengthen movement.

BECOME A MEMBER: Not a member and want to try this class? Emaildenisei@sjcc.org for information on becoming a member, to take a tour of the J, or to try out this class. More membership information can be found here >>. For a full list of current SJCC policies and procedures for coming to the J… click here >>.

Schwartz Early Childhood School Parent Seminars
2026-01-15 18:30 - 20:00
Parent Education Series designed to strengthen family partnerships (currently enrolled and community) and deepen understanding of early childhood learning and development through a Reggio-inspired approach.
The virtual series will include several themed sessions led by members of the leadership team, each addressing an area families frequently ask about and that directly supports our school philosophy:
Dec. 1 – Academics in a Reggio Classroom – Demonstrating how early literacy, math, and science concepts are integrated into play, exploration, and inquiry rather than taught through rote instruction.
Jan. 15 – Emotional Responsiveness and Challenging Behaviors – Offering tools for understanding the meaning behind behaviors, building emotional regulation, and supporting children through a compassionate, connection-based approach.
Mar. 28 – Toilet Learning – Sharing respectful, developmentally appropriate strategies that emphasize independence, body awareness, and collaboration between home and school.
May 20 – The Power of Play – Highlighting how play supports every area of development—social, emotional, cognitive, and academic—and how it lays the foundation for lifelong learning.
The goal of this series is to empower parents with knowledge and confidence, strengthen the partnership between home and school, and communicate how the Reggio philosophy supports both academic readiness and whole-child development.

Fitness Class: Ageless Strength Training
2026-01-02 07:15 - 08:15
Join us Friday morning (7:15 am) for our senior-focused fitness class, Ageless Strength Training with Nenna. Offered at the J, this class provides a variety of trainings from “stations” to aerobics, to strengthening and stretching, and balance. Heavy on the fun and mental engagement.

BECOME A MEMBER: Not a member and want to try this class? Email denisei@sjcc.org for information on becoming a member, to take a tour of the J, or to try out this class. More membership information can be found here >>. For a full list of current SJCC policies and procedures for coming to the J…click here >>.

Fitness Class: Intermediate Slow Flow Yoga
2026-01-02 08:30 - 09:30
Join SJCC instructor Nenna on Friday at 8:30 am for our intermediate group fitness class Slow Flow Yoga. This class is meditative and geared for a slower pace of yoga. Correct breath control is essential to creating a seamless flow of postures, and Nenna will lead you through them, no matter your yoga experience (from first-timer to expert).

BECOME A MEMBER: Not a member and want to try this class? Email denisei@sjcc.org for information on becoming a member, to take a tour of the J, or to try out this class. More membership information can be found here >>. For a full list of current SJCC policies and procedures for coming to the J…click here >>.
