Berg-Lieppe Adult Enrichment

JANUARY

January Lunch Menu 

Lea Bondi Jaray: Art, Aryanization and Restitution with Arts Educator Janet Mandel

Thursday, January 29 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
This presentation will explore the life and legacy of Lea Bondi Jaray, a prominent Jewish art dealer in interwar Vienna whose gallery and personal collection fell victim to Nazi persecution. As the Third Reich tightened its grip on Austria, Bondi Jaray’s gallery was forcibly “Aryanized” – seized and transferred to non-Jewish hands under duress, stripping her of both livelihood and heritage. Among the most infamous losses was Egon Schiele’s Portrait of Wally, a painting that later became the centerpiece of a landmark restitution battle decades after World War II. Sponsored by the Van Winkle Foundation.

FEBRUARY

Grand-Friends!

Monday, February 2 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Come be part of a heartwarming series of intergenerational gatherings with the children from the JCC’s Bridges transitional kindergarten program. We’ll laugh, learn and connect through stories, games, crafts, photos, and more – each session offering something new and fun. Don’t miss this special chance to build friendships across generations and create joyful memories together!

Singer Candy Nelson Helps Us Celebrate All WINTER BIRTHDAYS!

Tuesday, February 3 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Candy Nelson has been bringing audiences to their feet for the past 25 years. In addition to superb technical skill and phenomenal vocal range, Candy has a captivating and evocative stage presence that can fill your soul with joy. Let’s enjoy celebrating all winter birthdays together.

The Big Band Experience: Sinatra, Dorsey, and the Pied Pipers with Lecturer/Pianist Clint Edwards

Wednesday, February 4 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Come and learn about the early career of Frank Sinatra and his work with Tommy Dorsey’s band, the Pied Pipers. Sponsored by Michelle Fiddler, in memory of her grandfather, Manny Fiddler who “never met a stranger.”

Reader’s Theater with Wendy Connolly

Thursday, February 5 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Reader’s Theater is an excellent way to engage in an enjoyable, low-pressure performance activity. It involves participants reading aloud works of literature that have been adapted for performance and emphasizing vocal expression rather than physical movement or memorization. This program offers numerous cognitive, emotional and social benefits.

There’s Something About this Place – Learn More about the JCC of Central NJ with Randi Zucker, Director of Arts, Community and Culture

Monday, February 9 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Randi Zucker has worked at the JCC for over 20 years and will share a peek behind the scenes of how programs are selected and executed. Learn about the community service projects that the JCC is a part of and how you can be involved. Guess how many positions Randi has held and how many offices she called “home”? Come and find out!

Celebrating Union County’s Black History and Heritage with John Prescott from Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs

Tuesday, February 10 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
In February, our country celebrates Black History Month. With this informative presentation, you will learn about the rich heritage that Union County has developed over five centuries. Some of the information presented you may never have heard of before. This is a program you won’t want to miss.

Entertainment Historian John Kenrick on The Gilded Age

Wednesday, February 11 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
RESERVATIONS REQUIRED BY FEBRUARY 6
The Gilded Age – the HBO series, its history and it’s stars – is one of the most entertaining drama series on television today, and uncannily timely. John Kenrick will cover the era that inspired it, the show itself and fascinating behind-the-scenes stories of the Broadway-star-studded cast and creative team. Sponsored by the Van Winkle Foundation.

Register

Good News Current Events Day

Thursday, February 12 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Sometimes it feels like the news is full of only depressing and upsetting stories! But we know there are some uplifting, interesting and positive stories out there. Along with Alison and Wendy, participants will be asked to bring “good news” current events to share and discuss with the group.

No Program in Observance of Presidents’ Day

Monday, February 16

Author Judith Resnik on her book, Impermissible Punishments

Tuesday, February 17 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Impermissible Punishments by Judith Resnik examines the rise of modern prison systems and their troubling parallels with plantations and concentration camps. The book highlights society’s repeated failures to distinguish lawful punishment from inhumane treatment and argues that governments committed to equality must reform harmful incarceration practices. Proud partner of the Jewish Book Council.

Movie Musical Sing-Along Day!

Wednesday, February 18 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Let’s chase away the winter blues by singing along to our favorite movie musical hits! We’ll step out of our comfort zones and have some fun. All singing voices are welcome!

Lecturer Kevin Woyce with Old Glory: History of the American Flag

Thursday, February 19 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
With original photographs, vintage images and patriotic music, Kevin Woyce explores the history of the American Flag – from its origin in the Revolution to the addition of our 50th star in 1960. (This program’s instrumental music is played live on electric guitar, accompanied by pre-recorded tracks arranged and performed by Kevin Woyce.) Sponsored by Union County Division on Aging.

Bach to Rock with Cellist Alex Prizgintas

Monday, February 23 • 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. His program combines classical works, jazz, opera, Latin tangos and 1960s rock, offering audiences both music and the stories behind it. Sponsored by the Van Winkle Foundation.

Jewish Immigration and American Music with Maestro Robert W. Butts

Tuesday, February 24 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
During the late 19th century, immigration patterns in America changed as new arrivals came through Ellis Island from Southern and Eastern Europe. Many children of Jewish families helped create an “American” sound between 1900-1920. These artists had major influence in both the creative and the performance worlds. The changes in music coincided with major technology changes as these artists had an impact on stage, on recordings, on radio and later in film. Sponsored by Union County Division on Aging.

Augusta Savage: Renaissance Woman with Arts Educator Janet Mandel

Wednesday, February 25 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Augusta Savage overcame poverty, racism and gender discrimination to become a luminary of the Harlem Renaissance. Her sculptures celebrated African American culture, and her work as an arts educator and political activist catalyzed social change. This talk will explore Savage’s lasting legacy by examining her remarkable life and affecting works, as well as those of the younger artists she inspired. Sponsored by the Van Winkle Foundation.

Join the Conversation with our Favorite Librarian, Debbie Abrams

Thursday, February 26 • 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!

MARCH

Author Dan Slater on His Book, The Incorruptibles

Monday, March 2 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
The Incorruptibles by Dan Slater explores the gripping history of Jewish organized crime in early 20th-century America and the powerful Jewish leaders who secretly fought to stop it. Set against the backdrop of New York’s Lower East Side and rising nativism, the book vividly traces gangsters, reformers and the high-stakes battle over reputation and assimilation in a rapidly changing America. Proud partner of Jewish Book Council.

Historical True Crime Stories with Retired Journalist and Author JD Solomon

Tuesday, March 3 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
The Lincoln assassination: we all know the basics. Lincoln was killed while watching a play in Ford’s Theater by the actor John Wilkes Booth. But the details of how the assassination was planned and committed, and the story of the 12-day manhunt for Booth, make this a crime thriller for the ages. Join us for the full story.

250 years of Classical Music in America with Lecturer/Pianist Clint Edwards

Wednesday, March 4 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
As we celebrate the 250th year of the founding of America, we’ll survey the long and important role classical music has played in our history, from the early revolutionary days, to the founding of some of the world’s great symphonic orchestras (NY Philharmonic, Boston Symphony Orchestra, Philadelphia Orchestra), and the role of some of our most important and groundbreaking musicians (Gershwin, Copland, Bernstein). Sponsored by The Westfield Foundation.

Find the Good with Barbara Weisbart, former Adult Enrichment Director

Thursday, March 5 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Join us for a discussion of the uplifting book Find the Good by Heather Lende. Lende, a small town obituary writer in Alaska, has distilled what she has learned about how to lead a more meaningful life into three words: find the good. Barbara will summarize some of her favorite examples from the book. This will be followed by an opportunity for people to share their own life experiences of finding the good.

Odessa Klezmer Band

Monday, March 9 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
RESERVATIONS REQUIRED BY MARCH 5

Join us for a wonderful morning of Klezmer music with the Odessa Klezmer band, including the greatest traditional Klezmer and Jewish/Yiddish favorites. Sponsored by friends and family of Dolly Belfer in honor of her 90th birthday.

Register

Celebrating the History of Union County Women with John Prescott from Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs

Tuesday, March 10 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Women’s History Month is celebrated every March, honoring the remarkable achievements of women throughout our nation’s history. Union County is home to many extraordinary women whose influence has shaped both our community and our country. Join us for this inspiring program and leave with a deeper appreciation, a sense of pride and a richer understanding of their lasting contributions.

Entertainment Historian John Kenrick on Dorothy Fields

Wednesday, March 11 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
RESERVATIONS REQUIRED BY MARCH 6
Born into a celebrated theatrical family, Dorothy Fields’ extraordinary way with words made her the only woman to win a lasting place in the front rank of America’s 20th century musical theater and film songwriters. Her hits ranged from The Cotton Club to Broadway (Sweet Charity) to Hollywood (Shall We Dance). Stellar performance clips and lots of backstage lore fill this tribute to a true show business legend. Sponsored by the Van Winkle Foundation.

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NJ Shipwrecks with Historian and Diver Dan Lieb

Thursday, March 12 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Dan Lieb’s presentation covers various NJ shipwrecks such as the Morro Castle, the Amity and the John Minturn and covers a span of nearly 300 years. Vessels plying New Jersey waters have met their fates in a variety of ways from strandings to boilers exploding to collisions, to name a few. Many of the shipwrecks he has explored remained unidentified for decades until he and others set about to properly name them and bring their histories to light. Sponsored by Union County Division on Aging.

Lecturer Joel Farkas with Remember the Ladies – Women in the Time of the American Revolution

Monday, March 16 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Join us for a discussion on how men viewed women, the expectations of women and the challenges of just being a woman during Revolutionary times. The lecture will focus on issues related to education, medicine, health and childbirth. Joel will talk about our country’s First Ladies and our country’s First Mother. Let’s listen to Abigail (Adams) and Remember the Ladies. Sponsored by Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs.

20th Century Women Photographers: Pushing Boundaries, Blazing Paths with Arts Educator Janet Mandel

Tuesday, March 17 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Unconventional, innovative, persistent and courageous are some of the words used to describe three outstanding women photographers whose careers spanned the 20th Century. Imogen Cunningham, Berenice Abbott and Lee Miller gave us images that record the culture and history of an era. Come and hear about the lives of these pioneering women and see some of their iconic works. Sponsored by the Van Winkle Foundation.

The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire with Historian Abbott Gorin

Wednesday, March 18 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire in 1911 was New York City’s most deadly industrial disaster where 146 garment workers – mostly young immigrant women, many Jewish – died after a fire spread rapidly through the factory. The tragedy sparked major labor reforms, including improved fire safety laws, building codes and stronger protections for workers. Come and learn about this fascinating history.

Mental Aerobics: Let’s Play Games!

Thursday, March 19 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Let’s have fun together while keeping our minds active through a variety of engaging mental challenges. It’s a great way to stay sharp, socialize and enjoy a little brain boost to start your week! Sorry, not suitable for virtual audience.

Carousels: Then and Now with Lecturer Mario Medici

Monday, March 23 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Remember the thrill of riding a carousel with the horse bobbing up and the sound of the Wurlitzer Band or steam organ (calliope), or maybe if you are old enough catching the brass ring. There was a time when 5,000 carousels dotted the landscape of this country, today 150 remain. Where did they go? 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. Amateur photographer, art history enthusiast and avid researcher, Mario Medici will take you on this fascinating journey. Sponsored by the Westfield Foundation.

Passover Celebration with Cantor Jake Greenberg

Tuesday, March 24 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
RESERVATIONS REQUIRED BY MARCH 20
Cantor Jake Greenberg from Congregation Beth Israel in Scotch Plains will lead our Passover Seder. Celebrate Passover with the warmth of community and a meaningful Seder. Traditional holiday lunch follows. Register online at www.jccnj.org or contact Wendy Connolly.

Register

Famous Israelis with Our Rishon, Yoav Silberstein

Wednesday, March 25 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Join our Rishon, Yoav, for a talk about famous Israelis. Yoav will hold a Q&A for your Israel-related questions.

Cuba: A Journey through Time with Lecturer and Traveler Chris McCormack

Thursday, March 26 • 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Embark on an extraordinary adventure of photos, culture and exploration with our captivating travel program. Professional traveler Chris McCormack shares his immersive experience across the entire island, from Havana to Baracoa. This program is designed to transport you to the heart of Cuba’s vibrant and enigmatic world, as we traverse the island’s diverse regions, unraveling its captivating mysteries and uncovering the rich tapestry of its history, culture and people. Sponsored by Union County Division on Aging.

No Program in Observance of Passover

Monday, March 30 through Thursday, April 2