Berg-Lieppe Adult Enrichment
MAY
Celebrate Spring Birthdays with Vocalist Jeff Dunston
Thursday, May 7 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Jeff, one of our favorite performers, will entertain us with his beautiful voice singing many wonderful songs from our past. Expect to get up and dance today! Sponsored by a generous grant from the Fanwood/Scotch Plains Service League.
Facing the Music with Dave Schlossberg
Monday, May 11 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Dave Schlossberg, professional pianist and composer, was paralyzed by a drunk driver in 2005. Since then, he has pursued a successful career in the field of Jewish music as a composer, arranger, choir director, accompanist and more. Today, he shares his journey through spinal cord injury, weaving his musical talent, wisdom and sense of humor into a compelling and unforgettable presentation. Sponsored by The Westfield Foundation.
Sharing Stories/Creative Writing
Tuesday, May 12 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Explore your imagination in a fun, supportive setting! During this staff-led program, we’ll start with a short writing prompt, followed by time to write. Then, we’ll share our poems, essays and/or short stories aloud and enjoy pieces created by fellow participants outside the session. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just love storytelling, this is a space to create, connect and celebrate the joy of words.
Entertainment Historian John Kenrick with Mel Brooks: It’s Good to Be the King of Comedy
Wednesday, May 13 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
RESERVATIONS REQUIRED BY MAY 8
After getting his start as a Catskill resort tummler, he proved his genius writing for TV’s Your Show of Shows before creating some of the greatest comic films of our time. From The Producers and Young Frankenstein to Blazing Saddles, a look at how Brooks has offended and delighted, earning his place as a national comic treasure. Sponsored by The Van Winkle Foundation.
Understanding Genetics and Aging with Unicity Care Management
Thursday, May 14 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
As we age, understanding our genetic makeup becomes increasingly important. Our DNA reveals predispositions to conditions like heart disease, dementia and diabetes, empowering us to take preventive steps and make informed health decisions. This talk with Unicity Care Management will help us understand what steps can and should be taken to positively influence the aging process.
Plums, Paprika & Ghosts: Our Trip to the Austro-Hungarian Empire with Author A.J. Sidransky
Monday, May 18 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
In September 2021, A. J. Sidransky and his twenty-seven-year-old son, Jake, set off on a journey propelled by family history, years of genealogical research and devoted reverence for their ancestors. This memoir chronicles the trip through Hungary, Slovakia and the Czech Republic – serving as a travelogue, a food tour and a history. This inspiring story of a life-changing and enlightening experience is one that Sidransky proficiently shares. It’s a history familiar to so many Jewish families and will emotionally resonate with them. Proud partner of the Jewish Book Council.
Heroines: The Women Who Showed Up with Daniella Gefen from Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest NJ
Tuesday, May 19 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
This talk explores the courage, leadership, and impact of women during the war that began on October 7th. Through personal stories and national moments, we will look at the heroic acts of women serving both within the ranks of the IDF and in civilian roles on the front lines of emergency response and community defense. Daniella Gefen, the Israeli shlicha (emissary) for Federation of Greater MetroWest, is an Israel educator, tour guide and clinical social worker, here as an emissary on behalf of the Jewish agency for Israel.
How the Internet Changed the Media and Why Newspapers, Music and Television Will Never Be the Same with Professor Brian Rose
Wednesday, May 20 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
This illustrated lecture will examine the many ways the internet has radically transformed the “old” media of newspapers, magazines, the recording industry, film, radio and television. It will trace how this digital revolution took place in such a short period of time, and what lies ahead in the continually changing era of “new” media. Among the topics to be explored: will there be a printed newspaper in any city ten years from now? Will newsstands and bookstores disappear as fast as record stores? Will movie theaters exist in their present form? Will prime-time television vanish? Sponsored by The Westfield Foundation.
Raphael: Artist and Visionary with Arts Educator Janet Mandel
Thursday, May 21 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
The Italian painter and architect Raphael became one of the defining figures of the High Renaissance – revered for his grace, harmony and masterful balance of beauty and structure. His lyrical use of form, color and composition not only defined an era but continues to shape our understanding of artistic perfection. The Metropolitan Museum of Art will exhibit more than 200 of his drawings, paintings, tapestries and decorative works from March 29 to June 28, 2026. Sponsored by the Van Winkle Foundation.
No Program in Observance of Memorial Day
Monday, May 25
Home Is Where the CARE Is Panel Discussion on Senior Wellness
Tuesday, May 26 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
There’s no place like home as we get older, but navigating care in the home can be overwhelming. Come and learn about aging-at-home strategies and resources to keep you living healthy and comfortably at home. Our panel presenters will review everything from home care and home health aides, in-home podiatry and physical therapy to doctors who make house calls. Don’t miss this opportunity to be prepared and learn about valuable community resources. Sponsored by Visiting Physician Services.
Because of You: Love Songs, Just Love Songs, a Concert/Lecture Performed by Diane Cypkin, PhD
Wednesday, May 27 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
This concert presents some of the most beautiful love songs by some of the most talented lyricists and composers of the twentieth century. From the charm of Ira and George Gershwin to the wit of Cole Porter. From the foot-tapping work of Joe Young to the romanticism of Michele Legrand – all of them, and more, offer us their views on love in songs as part of this concert. Sponsored by Bob Jankowitz, in loving memory of his dear wife, Julie.
Lecture/Pianist Clint Edwards with Julie Andrews’ Broadway Career
Thursday, May 28 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Exploring the life and music of one of the theater's most beloved performers and her work in Broadway (My Fair Lady, Camelot, Victor/Victoria, etc.). Sponsored by The Westfield Foundation.
JUNE
Bach to Rock with Cellist Alex Prizgintas
Monday, June 1 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Alex Prizgintas is an author, historian and musician who blends his passion for history with innovative cello performances that span genres from Bach to rock. Bach to Rock combines classical works, jazz, opera, Latin tangos and 1960s rock, offering audiences both music and the stories behind it. Sponsored by The Westfield Foundation.
Carol Simon Levin as Catharine ‘Caty’ Greene: Eyewitness to the American Revolution
Tuesday, June 2 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Immerse yourself in history celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States as Carol Simon Levin portrays Catharine “Caty” Greene, the indomitable wife of Nathanael Greene, one of General George Washington’s most valued officers and good friend to many other revolutionary notables. This program is made possible in part by a 2026 HEART (History, Education, Arts Reaching Thousands) Grant from the Union County Board of County Commissioners.
Spotlight on Wendy Connolly!
Wednesday, June 3 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Join us for a cabaret style “night out” in the daytime – an experience of music and memories, no cocktails required. Featuring Wendy Connolly, this program spans decades of familiar tunes with torch songs, musical movie and theater favorites as well as some pop songs. Settle in, sing along and enjoy the sparkle of a night on the town before lunchtime!
Armchair Tour of Uptown Manhattan with Lecturer Paul White
Thursday, June 4 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
In everyday New York lingo, "uptown" means anything north of 59th Street…or basically the southern edge of Central Park. Join historian Paul White for a fun, armchair tour of the neighborhoods, buildings, parks, memorials and cool spots that make upper Manhattan such a marvelous place. Sponsored by Myrna Gordon and the Richard Gordon Memorial Fund.
Shalama: My 96 Seasons in China with Author Jean Hoffmann Lewanda
Monday, June 8 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Shalama didn’t think she had a story to tell. When her granddaughter arrives home from college, tape recorder in hand, the events of Shalama’s life pour forth with emotion and clarity. Born in Harbin, China, in 1928, a decade after her Jewish Russian family settled there, young Shalama enjoys the sanctuary of a Jewish community far from pogroms and revolution. At the end of Shalama’s life, an unexpected turn of events provides a final piece to the puzzle which brings closure to the incredible story of her life. Proud partner of the Jewish Book Council.
Revolutions Throughout History with Cynthia and Damon Affinito
Tuesday, June 9 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Revolutions are rarely sudden – they build over time through ideas, inequality and crisis. This lecture compares major revolutions across history, highlighting shared causes as well as striking differences in outcomes. Participants leave with a deeper appreciation of why some revolutions succeed, others fail and all leave lasting legacies. This program is made possible in part by a 2026 HEART (History, Education, Arts Reaching Thousands) Grant from the Union County Board of County Commissioners.
Entertainment Historian John Kenrick with Annie: 50 Years of Tomorrow
Wednesday, June 10 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
RESERVATIONS REQUIRED BY JUNE 5
How did a comic strip about a little girl and a dog inspire a musical that conquered Broadway and then the whole theatrical world? Entertainment historian John Kenrick takes us behind the scenes to learn how this unlikely show became a beloved show business phenomenon. Sponsored by The Van Winkle Foundation.
Bagels and Bingo!
Thursday, June 11 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
This isn’t your grandparents Bingo game! Let’s play creative and unique versions of the classic game while we work out our brains!
A Life of My Own: Meeting Eleanor Roosevelt with Actress Linda Kenyon
Monday, June 15 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Eleanor Roosevelt became an inspiration to people of good will all around the world. Her life and work has made our country and our world a better place to live. This play, performed by Linda Kenyon, illuminates some steps along her journey. Sponsored by Barbara and Steve Weisbart in honor of Barbara’s birthday.
Lecturer/Pianist Clint Edwards on Gower Champion
Tuesday, June 16 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Clint will provide an in-depth look at how the director/choreographer Gower Champion crafted some of the most popular musicals of the 60s, 70s and 80s (Bye Bye Birdie, Hello, Dolly!, 42nd Street, etc.). Sponsored by The Westfield Foundation.
Arts Educator Janet Mandel with Marcel Duchamp: The Alchemist of the Avant-Garde
Wednesday, June 17 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Open the dictionary to the word iconoclast, and you will see a picture of Marcel Duchamp. He challenged the standards and beliefs of the art world and ushered in a new era of creative license – the reverberations of which are still felt in contemporary art today. Duchamp’s imagination was aroused by elements of Cubism, Surrealism and even Pop Art, but his resourcefulness meant continuous self-reinvention and deliberate inconsistency. Come and learn about his innovative works and the shockwaves they produced and enjoy the blockbuster Duchamp retrospective that opens at the Museum of Modern Art on April 12, 2026. Sponsored by The Van Winkle Foundation.
Pomp & Circumstance with Historical Presenter Meg Wastie
Thursday, June 18 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Discover the stories and meanings behind the tradition of graduation and the symbolic clothing associated with this significant rite of passage. Sponsored by The Westfield Foundation.
Senior Exercise
Exercise can help maintain your mobility, balance, strength and flexibility. At the JCC, we offer light exercise classes from Monday - Thursday to help keep you fit and strong. All of our instructors are full trained to work with senior adults. We welcome all levels and encourage you to exercise at your own pace.
Senior Exercise Schedule
Price: $5/class
Member/Senior Social/Virtual Price: Free
Exercise with Colby Sheppard
Mondays • 10:15 - 11:00 a.m.
Toning exercises for muscle and bone strength and full body core strengthening to aide in mobility for the whole body are included in each class. Participate at your own pace. Chair support is offered so you can perform a variety of postures. This class is suitable for nearly every fitness level.
Exercise with Helene Baum
Tuesdays • 10:15 - 11:00 a.m.
This exercise program is designed to increase strength, balance, flexibility and maintain posture. This total body workout is in seated/and or standing positions. So come join in, gain strength, better health and balance. Meet new friends too! All fitness levels are welcome.
Exercise with Jillian Shulstein
Wednesdays • 10:15 - 11:00 a.m.
Boost energy and improve balance while strengthening muscles and halting or reversing bone loss. Stretching, strength training, range-of-motion and endurance work.
Chair Yoga with Karen Rosen
Thursdays • 10:15 - 11:00 a.m.
Chair yoga increases flexibility, strength and body awareness. When standing, the chair is used to help with and improve balance. Chair yoga also includes pranayama breathing techniques and meditation to promote focus, mental clarity and relaxation.
Support those who support our JCC
.jpg){kind=logo}
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg){kind=logo}
.jpg){kind=logo}
_(1).png){kind=logo}