Connecticut Jewish Ledger

While New Haven residents are still enjoying the final days of summer, the JCC of Greater New Haven is already thinking ahead to the fall and winter months. As part of the JCC Annual Facility Fix-Up and Cleaning, the JCC will remain closed through Sunday, Aug. 27. The JCC will re-open on Monday, Aug. 28, at 5:30am

When teenagers return to the JCC, they will be surprised to find that the old restaurant space has been converted into a new teen game room and lounge.

“It’s a cool hang out place,” notes recent Ezra Academy graduate and incoming Hopkins ninth grader, Lizzie Fiedler.

Teenagers will have an opportunity to try out the ping pong, pool, and foosball tables, as well as a jukebox filled with CDs. While the game room is free, teens will need to pay for songs in the jukebox and for ping pong balls.

The room also features wireless internet and comfortable furniture meant to encourage “hanging out” with friends. The furnishings and game tables have been generously donated by the Vine Family of Woodbridge.

“The JCC was part of my growing up experience, and the game room was a big part of that experience,” said Barry Vine. “What has happened is that we have fewer youth involved in JCC life. A game room and lounge, along with other programs like the fitness center and MAKOM, which will be meeting here, will create an environment which will bring them in. I hope it will serve as a home away from home.”

New Cafe
In the alcove near the vending machines and message boards is the new JCC Café.

Sodexho, a leading food management services company, will open Market-To-Go, an all new café, at the JCC.

“People have been waiting for it to open for some time,” notes Christina Colaicovo, marketing associate for the JCC. The Grand Opening date for the café is Tuesday, Sept. 5, at 8am JCC Market-To-Go will feature a variety of wraps, soups, salads, yogurts, Starbucks Coffee, and more. Patrons can eat in the JCC’s newly decorated Food Court, or take out.

Hours are 8am - 2pm, and 4 - 6:30pm, Monday through Thursday; 8am - 2pm, Friday; and 10am - 4pm on Sunday. JCC Market-To-Go will be closed Saturday. Extended hours on Wednesday evenings will begin in October.