Adult Enrichment

SEPTEMBER

Welcome Back: Let's Connect

Wednesday, September 2 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Join Alison and Wendy as we celebrate the start of a new season with conversation, connection, and a few fun activities designed to bring everyone together.

High Holiday Program with Rabbi Steven Stern of Temple Beth O'r Beth Torah

Thursday, September 3 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Join us for an abbreviated Rosh Hashanah service that will include some core prayers, readings, and traditions, along with commentary explaining their meaning and purpose.
Traditional holiday lunch will follow.

No Program in Observance of Labor Day

Monday, September 7

Mind Reading Live!

Tuesday, September 8 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Flavian (Flavian Petrulio) is a world-renowned mentalist and entertainer based in New Jersey. He is famous for his highly interactive Mind Reading Game Shows that combine uncanny demonstrations of telepathy with comedy and active audience participation. Flavian has graced major venues, including Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, Lincoln Center in New York City, and Caroline's Comedy Club. Sponsored by the Union County Division on Aging.

Lecturer/Pianist Clint Edwards with Masters of Song: Neil Diamond

Wednesday, September 9 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Reservations for lunch required by 9/4
We'll explore the remarkable life and career of one of America's most beloved singer/songwriters. Through stories and Neil Diamond's greatest hits, we'll discover the journey, inspiration, and enduring legacy behind his classics. Sponsored by The Westfield Foundation.

Local Author and Historian JD Solomon on Lizzie Borden

Thursday, September 10 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Forty Whacks: America's Perfect Crime. A wealthy elderly couple is hacked to death in their home. The nation is riveted as the husband's 32-year-old daughter is tried for the crime. She has motive, means, and opportunity - and police say no one else could have done it. But a jury acquits her after just 1 O minutes of deliberation. Get the inside story of the infamous Lizzie Borden case in our next historical true crime presentation with local author and historian JD Solomon.

Sharing Stories and Creative Writing

Monday, September 14 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Explore your imagination in a fun, supportive setting! This program will start with a short writing prompt, followed by time to write and share with the group. We also will 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.

 

Arts Educator Janet Mandel on Asher B. Durand: Leading Light of the American Landscape

Tuesday, September 15 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Reservations for lunch required by 9/8
Asher B. Durand, master engraver and portraitist born in Maplewood, NJ, is widely acknowledged for his visionary contributions to early American landscape painting. He became a leading force in the Hudson River School, giving us resplendent arcadian images suffused with light, color, and atmospheric perspective. An optimist by nature, Durand captured the enthusiasm and uniqueness of the American experience on canvas. Sponsored by The Van Winkle Foundation.

Your Favorite Songs with Vocalist/Actor Marcus Chaney

Wednesday, September 16 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Broadway veteran, Motown collaborator, and powerhouse vocalist, Marcus Chaney brings us a timeless collection of memorable songs. With credits including Miss Saigon, Les
Miserables, Rent, and Smokey Joe's Cafe, Marcus will perform a variety of music styles from jazz to popular standards, Broadway and the like. Sponsored by the Union County Division on Aging.

Cantor David F. Tilman with Music of Yom Kippur: The Soundtrack of the Synagogue

Thursday, September 17 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Reservations for lunch required by 9/10
Join Hazzan David F. Tilman, cantor, conductor, and Jewish music educator as he prepares us for the sacred holiday of Yom Kippur, only four days away, by taking us through the Jewish musical highlights of Yom Kippur services. We'll look at videos of cantors singing Kol Nidre, learn about the history and theory of High Holiday music, and then join together with Hazzan and his accordion reviewing Yom Kippur music. We shall sing together the traditional Kol Nidre chant, Avinu Malkeinu, the famous Kaddish tunes, and many other melodies. The High Holiday music brings us all together with our past, present, and future. Bring your powerful voices and your Jewish musical memories.

No Program in Observance of Yom Kippur

Monday, September 21

Notes of Deception with Author Merryl Goldberg

Author will be virtual
Tuesday, September 22 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
In 1985, at the height of Cold War tensions, four American musicians traveled to Moscow on a secret mission to smuggle intelligence using music as their code. Under the watchful eye of the KGB, the members of the Klezmer Conservatory Band risked everything despite having no espionage training. Saxophonist Merryl Goldberg and Vince Houghton, Director of the National Cryptologic Museum, reveal the remarkable true story of how hidden messages were encoded in sheet music. Proud partner of the Jewish Book Council.

Efrat Shapira with Jewish Music from Around the World

Wednesday, September 23 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Violinist and vocalist Efrat will perform Jewish music from around the world, including songs from Ashkenazi, Sephardic, Yiddish, Ladino, Jewish Jazz (from Goodman to Gershwin), Israeli, Frailachs, Horas and much more - from yesterday to today. Sponsored by the Belter family in honor of Dolly's birthday.

Carousels: Then and Now with Lecturer Mario Medici

Thursday, September 24 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Remember the thrill of riding a carousel with the horse bobbing up and down, and the sound of the Wurlitzer Band or steam organ (calliope), or maybe catching the brass ring? How did Coney Island go from 25 carousels to just one today? This presentation will take you from the earliest days of carousels until the present and attempt to answer these questions and more. Amateur photographer and avid researcher, Mario Medici will take you on this fascinating journey. Sponsored by The Westfield Foundation.

Historian and Diver Dan Lieb with the John K. Shaw Tragedy

Monday, September 28 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Come and learn what makes this maritime tragedy especially compelling. There is a belief that the John K. Shaw may have been the victim of a "hit-and-run at sea." Sponsored by the Union County Division on Aging.

Journey through the JCC of Central NJ with Robin Brous, Chief Strategy Officer

Tuesday, September 29 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Through her 32 years at the JCC, Robin has seen and done it all! From her beginnings at Camp Yachad to her many pivotal years as Early Childhood Director to her current role as Chief Strategy Officer, Robin has a special insight into the JCC: past, current and future! Come with questions and join the conversation with Robin.

Entertainment Historian John Kenrick on Sweeney Todd: Sondheim's Dark Masterpiece

Wednesday, September 30 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Reservations for lunch required by 9/23
Attend the tale of how songwriter Stephen Sondheim and director Harold Prince turned a blood-soaked Victorian melodrama about a barber making meat pies out of murder victims into one of the most acclaimed Broadway musicals of all time. How has this gory tale remained popular on stage and screen for almost half a century? John Kenrick pulls back the curtain on the delicious fun backstage with performance clips from various productions. Sponsored by The Van Winkle Foundation.

OCTOBER

Mental Aerobics!

Thursday, October 1 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Let's keep our minds sharp and have fun while doing it. We'll "work out" our brains with various mental activities. Research, as well as our own experience, proves that brain games is time well-spent! 
Sorry, not suitable for virtual audience

Jimmy Scalia with Songwriters and Singers of the Brill Building

Monday, October 5 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
The tidal wave of music that shaped American youth culture in the 1950s and '60s flowed from a skyscraper in midtown Manhattan. Experience The Brill Building Sound with pop culture historian Jimmy Scalia. Sponsored by Union County Division on Aging.

 

Give Me Some of That Rock in Roll Music! with Vocalist/Musician Tom Langmaack

Tuesday, October 6 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Many of you will remember the talented Tom as the accompanist for Wendy's Cabaret performance in June. He's an extremely versatile musician who shares his talents around the tri-state area in bands, as a solo act, for weddings, parties, corporate events, etc. Now he's back performing our favorite classic rock hits from the 50s, 60s and 70s. So, get ready to get up and dance, clap your hands, or bounce to the beat in your seats! Sponsored by Adult Enrichment participant and JCC Board Member Bob Jankowitz.

Lecturer/Pianist Clint Edwards on Master of American Music: Johnny Cash

Wednesday, October 7 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Reservations for lunch required by 10/1
Let's explore the life and music of one of the superstars of American popular song, with a close look at the creation of Johnny Cash's album Ring of Fire. Sponsored by The Westfield Foundation.

Safe Computing with Mr. Tech (aka Eugene Oppido)

Thursday, October 8 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Come and have your questions answered on topics such as two-factor authentication, browsers, anti-virus, scams, viruses, etc. Sponsored by Mr. Tech, More Resources for
Your Tech Needs in Fanwood.

No Program in Observance of Columbus/Indigenous Peoples' Day

Monday, October 12

Entertainment Historian John Kenrick with The Phantom of the Opera: Music of the Night

Tuesday, October 13 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Reservations for lunch required by 10/6
Andrew Lloyd Webber teamed up with director Harold Prince to make the classic tale of a disfigured killer terrorizing a Paris opera house into the longest running musical in Broadway history. How has this classic horror story been dramatized over the years, and what made this version such a massive international stage smash? Sponsored by The Van Winkle Foundation.

Maestro Robert W. Butts Presents America 250: What Might People Have Listened to in the 1770s/1780s?

Wednesday, October 14 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
As at any time, people listened to many types of music. Patriotic tunes were enthusiastically sung by all. Leaders like Thomas Jefferson, Patrick Henry, Lafayette, and Benjamin Franklin enjoyed the latest compositions by composers like Antonio Vivaldi, Georg Frideric Handel, and Franz Joseph Haydn. Through videos and recordings, the Maestro will discuss the music that was enjoyed by those in America and around the world during the time of the American Revolution. Sponsored by Union County Division on Aging.

lmprov with Wendy Connolly of Contagious Laughter lmprov Troupe

Thursday, October 15 • 11 :15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Get ready to laugh, loosen up, and let your creativity fly! Join us for a lively improv session inspired by the hit show Whose Line Is It Anyway? led by Wendy Connolly from the
Westfield-based troupe, Contagious Laughter. No scripts, no pressure - just pure fun as we make it all up on the spot!
Sorry, not suitable for virtual audience

The Seventy Shuls: Synagogue Life & Yiddishkeit from the Pine Barrens to the Boardwalk with Author Josh Cutler

Author in person
Monday, October 19 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
This non-fiction book traces the hidden history of seventy synagogues that once anchored Jewish life across South Jersey, from rural farmlands to Atlantic City. Built by immigrants, farmers, shopkeepers, and Holocaust survivors, these congregations flourished for nearly 150 years before many disappeared amid changing times and development. Through vivid storytelling and careful research, the book preserves their legacy and celebrates the enduring spirit of community, faith, and Yiddishkeit. This program is in partnership with Temple Emanu-EI. Proud partner of the Jewish Book Council.

The History of U.S. Presidential Elections and New Jersey with Brian Armstrong

Tuesday, October 20 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
This program will focus on the history of U.S. Presidential elections and how New Jersey voted. Emphasis will be on all elections from 1912 to the present discussing the candidates, the issues, the campaigns, and the results. Profiles of New Jersey candidates will be provided, including NJ Governor George McClellan (1864), Vice President Garret Hobart (1896), and NJ Governor Woodrow Wilson (1912). Presenter Brian Armstrong was a Political Science major from American University in Washington, DC, and is a
collector of U.S. presidential election memorabilia and will bring some of his favorite campaign buttons and other items to the presentation. Sponsored by friends of June Fischer, in loving memory of June.

Maggie Griffin-Smith with Songs of the Silver Screen - Fall Birthday Celebration

Wednesday, October 21 • 11 :15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Maggie again will take us down memory lane with favorite movie soundtrack hits from films of the 40s to the 80s. Sponsored by a generous grant from the Fanwood/Scotch Plains Service League. 

A Beat of Our Own – a Bhangin' New Musical – at the McCarter Theater in Princeton

Thursday, October 22 • Bus departs JCC at 10:45 a.m. • Matinee performance at 2:00 p.m. • Arrive back at the JCC at 5:00 p.m.

A Beat of Our Own is a new musical comedy about rivalry, friendship, and the power of dance. After winning a college bhangra championship, teammates Mary and Preeti clash
over the future of their team, leading Mary to form a new squad made up of inexperienced but enthusiastic dancers. With help from a former Bollywood star, she sets out to turn a group of loveable misfits into national contenders. Filled with humor, heart, and high-energy choreography, the show celebrates community, creativity, and finding common ground.

Price: $145, Member Price: $135 (luxury coach bus and hot buffet lunch included) 

Register

Documentary from Rocky Mountain Women's Film Festival

Monday, October 26 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Through film, and the stories of women and others who are often unheard or unseen, we foster connection and cultivate a more empathetic community. Former JCC program participants, Steve and Mary Anne Walldorf, introduced us to the Through the Lens Festival and we want to share one of their interesting offerings. At the time of this brochure printing, the festival schedule hasn't been released, but we will screen a documentary from this festival. Please see weekly emails from Wendy for details when they become available.

Lecturer Kevin Woyce on Halloween: A Haunted History

Tuesday, October 27 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Kevin explores the strange history of Halloween - from Old World harvest festival to our modern family holiday - with historical tales, original photography, vintage images, and live instrumental music, including spooky hits, classic TV themes, and more! Sponsored by Union County Division on Aging.

Butterflies & Moths: Nature's Winged Wonders with Ben Barkley, Somerset County Naturalist

Wednesday, October 28 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
With approximately 180,000 species of butterflies and moths worldwide, there is indeed much to learn about Lepidoptera. In fact, nearly 700 species have been recorded in Lord Stirling Park alone. Through photos, videos, and firsthand stories, this program will explore the beauty and remarkable life histories of these incredible insects.

Join the Conversation with our Favorite Librarian Debbie Abrams

Thursday, October 29 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Don't miss this lively and enlightening program led by a well-read, insightful librarian who brings today's most talked-about books to life - along with thoughtful takes on current culture, trends, and media. Whether you're a passionate reader or just love smart conversation, you'll enjoy engaging discussions, fresh perspectives, and a welcoming space to share your own thoughts too!

NOVEMBER

Ortiz's War with Author Katie S. Sanders

Author will be virtual
Monday, November 2 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Ortiz's War tells the extraordinary true story of Peter J. Ortiz, a daring U.S. Marine and 055 operative who carried out dangerous undercover missions behind Nazi lines in
occupied France during World War II. Fluent in several languages and fearless in combat, Ortiz armed and organized the French Resistance, rescued Allied airmen, and gathered vital intelligence before and after D-Day. Through his remarkable courage and self-sacrifice, the book reveals one of the most compelling yet little-known stories of the Allied war effort. Proud partner of the Jewish Book Council.

Karaoke/Sing-Along Day

Tuesday, November 3 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Let's put our inhibitions aside and just have fun singing together! We'll step out of our comfort zones for the day. All singing voices are welcome!
Sorry, not suitable for virtual audience

'Who's the Boss? with Miriam Adler, MSW, LCSW, Former Executive Director of the JFS of Northern NY

Wednesday, November 4 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Miriam will help us navigate the challenges that exist in the relationships between older adults and their children. Sure to lead to enlightening conversations!

Damon Affinito on The Constitution 101

Thursday, November 5 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Constitution 101 provides a comprehensive look at both the history behind the Constitutional Convention and the contents of America's governing document. The presentation begins with an account of the events that led James Madison and others to see the need to replace the Articles of Confederation with a more federally oriented constitution. The remainder of the presentation explains the various provisions and clauses found in the seven articles. Special attention is given to America's bicameral legislature, the election and responsibilities of the president, and (though not actually found in the Constitution) the concept of judicial review. Sponsored by friends of June Fischer, in loving memory of June.

Pianist and Vocalist Jay Daniels with A Place for Us: The Music of Stephen Sondheim

Monday, November 9 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Experience the genius of one of Broadway's most revered composers in A Place for Us: The Music of Stephen Sondheim. Pianist and vocalistJay Daniels pays tribute to Sondheim's extraordinary legacy with heartfelt interpretations of songs from Gypsy, A Little Night Music, and more. The concert also features a special sing-along portion, inviting the audience to join in beloved selections from West Side Story. Sponsored by the Belter Family, in honor of Randy Belfer's birthday.

Toulouse-Lautrec, Suzanne Valadon and the Parisian Demi-Monde (Part I) with Arts Educator Janet Mandel

Tuesday, November 10 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Reservations for lunch required by 11/3
Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec was a Post-Impressionist painter, printmaker, and illustrator who immersed himself in the colorful and sometimes decadent world of Paris's circuses, theaters, cabarets, and brothels. He recorded his experiences in enticing, elegant, and provocative images, which we will explore as we learn about his brief, extraordinary life in Part I of this talk. In Part II, we will learn about his most important muse Suzanne Valadon, the illegitimate daughter of a sewing maid whose formal education ended at age eleven. Suzanne worked as a circus acrobat and artists' model and gleaned what she could about painting by watching and listening to the men who put her image on canvas. Although mostly unknown today, she is regarded by scholars as an important chronicler of women's experiences. Her paintings remain fresh and modern, cementing her legacy as a significant figure in the history of art. Sponsored by The Van Winkle Foundation.

Written/Oral Memoirs with Professor Barbara Buettner

Wednesday, November 11 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Retired English college professor Barbara Buettner shares interesting written pieces and helps us work on our own written and oral memoirs - all followed by lively discussion.

Man of A Thousand Voices Singer Julian Fortune

Thursday, November 12 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Reservations for lunch required by 11/5
Julian is a true crowd favorite and has performed his diversified act across the USA's biggest cities, thrilling and exciting audiences in all venues. He has shared the stage with the Stylistics, Blood, Sweat, & Tears, Ben E. King, The Duprees, and many more. Sponsored by Myrna Gordon and the Richard Gordon Memorial fund in honor of Myrna's 90th birthday!

Social Action Day

Monday, November 16 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Let's give back to our community by making toiletry kits for those in need. Please bring donations of small items that we can pack in a bag: mini toiletry items, warm socks, hand warmers, sanitary supplies, etc. We'll decorate cards as well and donate our bags to Jewish Family Service in Elizabeth.
Sorry, not suitable for virtual audience

Lecturer/Pianist Clint Edwards on Connie Francis

Tuesday, November 17 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Reservations for lunch required by 11/10
Masters of Song: Let's explore the life and music of Connie Francis. Sponsored by The Westfield Foundation.

Toulouse-Lautrec, Suzanne Valadon and the Parisian Demi-Monde (Part II) with Arts Educator Janet Mandel

Wednesday, November 18 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Reservations for lunch required by 11/11
See November 10 listing for description.

Join the Conversation with our Favorite Librarian, Debbie Abrams

Thursday, November 19 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Don't miss this lively and enlightening program led by a well-read, insightful librarian who brings today's most talked-about books to life - along with thoughtful takes on current culture, trends, and media. Whether you're a passionate reader or just love smart conversation, you'll enjoy engaging discussions, fresh perspectives, and a welcoming space to share your own thoughts too!

Music We Heard Along the Way with Author Eric Gray

Virtual
Monday, November 23 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Music We Heard Along the Way, Volumes 1 and 2, are collections of stories from people around the world regarding their personal music and concert memories. They include stories of all different genres and eras, although the majority are about 60s-70s rock. This collection of deeply personal stories - first concerts, unforgettable performances, meaningful lyrics, and the connections music creates - spans genres, generations, and cultures. The stories shared highlight both the uniqueness of each experience and the universal power of music.

Entertainment Historian John Kenrick with Yiddish Theater in America: Laden with Happiness and Tears

Tuesday, November 24 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Reservations for lunch required by 11/17
How did the stars, plays and musicals of the Yiddish stage help to shape American entertainment right into our own time? And why has this once thriving art form almost  disappeared? From the Thomashevskys to Molly Picon right up to the acclaimed Yiddish production of Fiddler on the Roof, we'll share fascinating behind-the-scenes stories
and rare performance videos. Sponsored by friends of June Fischer, in loving memory of June.

Bagels and Bingo!

Wednesday, November 25 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
This isn't your grandparents' Bingo game! We'll play creative, unique, and challenging versions of the classic game.
Sorry, not suitable for virtual audience

No Program in Observance of Thanksgiving Day

Thursday, November 26

Barbara Weisbart on West with Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge

Monday, November 30 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Join former JCC Adult Enrichment Director Barbara Weisbart for a discussion on the book West with Giraffes (not necessary to have read the book). Barbara will share highlights from this delightful, award-winning historical fiction novel. The story is inspired by true events in 1938 when two young giraffes survive a hurricane when crossing the Atlantic and the events that follow. The book is part adventure, part historical saga, and part a coming of-age love story. We'll discuss the book's theme of how grace, healing, and redemption can be found in the most unexpected places.

DECEMBER

Lecturer Cynthia Affinito on Rights and Reckoning: The Global Fight for Human and Civil Rights

Tuesday, December 1 • 11 :15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
This lecture traces the evolution of human rights from the ideals of the ancient world through the creation of the United Nations and the modern struggle for equality. The program explores the leaders, philosophies, and events that inspired Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., as well as the global movements for justice and civil rights that his legacy continues to inspire. Through historical images and compelling stories, audiences gain a deeper understanding of the enduring quest for freedom, dignity, and equal rights. Sponsored by friends of June Fischer, in loving memory of June.

Lecturer/Pianist Clint Edwards with Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker

Wednesday, December 2 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Reservations for lunch required by 11/25
Let's explore the classical masterpiece, Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker. Clint will discuss the history of the famous ballet, its famous music, and its perennial place in our festive season. Sponsored by The Westfield Foundation.

Hanukkah Celebration with the Odessa Klezmer Band

Thursday, December 3 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Reservations for lunch required by 11/26
Join us for a wonderful morning of Klezmer music with the Odessa Klezmer band, including all the greatest traditional Klezmer and Jewish/Yiddish favorites. Sponsored by Homewatch Caregivers.

Fire Witch with Author Melanie Gall

Author will be virtual
Monday, December 7 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Fire Witch tells the remarkable true story of Pauline Silberstein, a Holocaust survivor who escaped Nazi persecution, joined the French Resistance, and later worked as a spy during World War II. Drawing on extensive research, Melanie Gall follows Pauline's courageous journey through danger, loss, and resilience as she fought against the Nazi regime. The book is a powerful portrait of an extraordinary woman whose bravery and determination helped shape history. Proud partner of the Jewish Book Council.

Marklyn T. Johnson aka MisterDirect

Tuesday, December 8 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Join us for an interactive experience that blends comedy, trivia, and music to create a fun, engaging, and memory driven event. Marklyn is a comedian, author, and motivational speaker with over 10 years of speaking experience and seven years in stand-up comedy, specializing in creating high-energy, inclusive programs for diverse audiences. He combines humor, storytelling, and audience interaction to ensure every event is both entertaining and meaningful. Sponsored by Union County Division on Aging.

Entertainment Historian John Kenrick on Noel Coward: A Talent to Amuse

Wednesday, December 9 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Reservations for lunch required by 12/2
Born to genteel poverty, he became the embodiment of British upper class culture and charm. He succeeded as an actor, singer, dancer, playwright, composer, lyricist, producer, screenwriter, and even novelist. What skyrocketed Coward to international fame and kept him there throughout the 20th century? And why are his best plays and songs still performed and treasured more than half a century after his passing? John Kenrick offers this loving look at one of his favorite show biz icons. Sponsored by The Van Winkle Foundation.

Arts Educator Janet Mandel with Andy Warhol: One Singular Sensation

Thursday, December 10 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Reservations for lunch required by 12/3
Few American artists are as celebrated and notorious as Andy Warhol. His iconic paintings, silk screens, photography, films, and sculptures have become indelible representations of the American aesthetic, exploring the relationship between artistic expression and celebrity culture. This talk will examine Warhol's works from his beginnings as a commercial illustrator in the 1950s, to his iconic Pop masterpieces of the early 1960s, to the avantgarde films from the 1960s and '70s, to his innovative use of readymade abstraction in the 1980s. Sponsored by The Van Winkle Foundation.

lmprov with Wendy Connolly of Contagious Laughter lmprov Troupe

Monday, December 14 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Get ready to laugh, loosen up, and let your creativity fly! Join us for a lively improv session inspired by the hit show Whose Line Is It Anyway? led by Wendy Connolly from the
Westfield-based troupe, Contagious Laughter. No scripts, no pressure - just pure fun as we make it all up on the spot!
Sorry, not suitable for virtual audience

Art Project: Collaborative Grid Painting!

Tuesday, December 15 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Reservations for lunch required by 12/8 We'll take a famous artwork and divide it into a grid of small individual squares that participants paint separately before assembling them into one large final image. Can't wait to see how it turns out!
Sorry, not suitable for virtual audience

Author Debbie Green Feldman with Her Book Indigenous

Author will be in-person
Wednesday, December 16 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Indigenous weaves together contemporary and historical threads to explore identity, heritage, connections to traditions and land, and the complex relationships among
people as they struggle to find understanding. The novel promises to engage and inspire readers with a slice of America's often-untold history.

A Trip Down Memory Lane with Singer/Musician Matt Mattheiss

Thursday, December 17 • 11:15 a.m. -12:15 p.m.
Matt has been entertaining audiences for almost 40 years. His latest venture, a musical program called A Trip Down Memory Lane, includes the soundtrack to some of the
greatest songs ever written. Sponsored by the Van Winkle Foundation.

The Adult Enrichment program will resume on Monday, January 4, 2027.