Learning is a lifelong journey at our Saltzman Foundation Lifelong Learning Institute and the cornerstone of the Katz JCC’s Adult Department. Our diverse selection of adult education courses offered each month ensures there is something for everyone to discover the joy in learning. We offer morning, afternoon and evening classes, both in person and virtually, to fit your lifestyle. This program is made up of three key components, each offering classes meant to engage you.
Fridays • 10:00 AM-11:15 AM • October 2 – October 16
Instructor: Judy Okun
Ahoy! Join instructor Judy Okun. Pack your astrolabe and compass as we embark with Magellan, Polynesian sailors, Captain Cook and the Spanish Galleon fleet onto the largest body of water on Earth. In our travels, we will explore the enormous Pacific Ocean region and the natural processes, history, environmental and geopolitical issues which make this such a fascinating and consequential part of the world. Alaska, Japan, Acapulco, Hawaii, Indonesia, Panama, the Philippines, volcanoes, ocean currents, and deep ocean chasms are some of our destinations. Welcome aboard!
JCC Member: $18/per class | Guest/JPATH: $23/per class
Tuesdays • 10:30 AM-11:45 AM • October 6 – October 20
Instructor: Sarah Rosenson
Each week we will read and discuss a Biblical text and then examine two to four artworks depicting the scene. Stories will include Abigail, Bathsheba, and the Last Supper. Artists will include Rubens, Rembrandt, Da Vinci, and Dali. Please note that these are different stories and paintings than we have studied in prior classes.
JCC Member: $18/per class | Guest/JPATH: $23/per class
This series will explore soul music as a whole – its origins, its regional identities, and the major studios and musicians that shaped its sound and legacy. Participants will explore the rich diversity and cultural significance of soul music during its golden age.
October 6: Gospel, Blues, R&B, and Jazz – The Musical DNA of Soul
October 13: Motown & Stax – Two Opposing Poles
October 20: The Rise of Sophisticated Soul – Philadelphia & Muscle Shoals
October 27: Where Soul Goes Next? Rhythm, Revolution, and Chicago’s New Voice
JCC Member: $18/per class | Guest/JPATH: $23/per class
Alexander Payne has delighted and made audiences think for nearly 30 years, writing and directing films that showcased expert acting and terrific dialogue enacted by memorable characters in difficult situations in unusual locations.
October 7: Election (1999) – 103 min.
with Matthew Broderick, Reese Witherspoon, and Chris Klein
October 14: Sideways (2004) – 127 min.
with Paul Giamatti, Thomas Haden Church, and Virginia Madsen
October 21: Nebraska (2013) – 103 min.
with Bruce Dern, Will Forte, and June Squibb
October 28: The Holdovers (2023) – 133 min.
with Paul Giamatti, Da?Vine Joy Randolph, and Dominic Sessa
JCC Member: $10/per class | Guest/JPATH: $15/per class
Thursdays • 10:30AM – 12:30PM • October 8- October 29
Join the Samba Craze! This fun variation of canasta is sweeping the nation! Samba is a card game that can be played with 2-6 players. No previous experience with canasta required.
JCC Member: $18/per class | Guest/JPATH: $23/per class
Join Dr. Bill Rosenberg as we discuss some of the most important political issues facing the U.S. and the world today.
October 19: Energized Political Factions and Their Influence
What is the impact of Democratic Socialists and Maga supporters going forward, in terms of both parties being able to navigate a path for elections and governing. Both of these groups represent the vanguard of some of the most politically active segments of each party. They serve to not only motivate voters but also seek to lead the parties to their issue positions.
October 26: The Power of Polls in Modern Politics
How has political polling corrupted the American political process in terms identifying the political issues, impacting the perceived strength of various political segment, directing the focus on specific constituencies, identifying political candidates, and serving as a basis for which candidates and groups get money, including the role of who (in terms of gender, race, religion, ideology) runs and who gets support. The political parties, interest groups, AIPAC, JStreet, and other groups are directly impacted.
JCC Member: $18/per class | Guest/JPATH: $23/per class
Many historians identify the American Revolution as more of a civil war than revolution. The period placed American against American in both advocating independence and maintaining the sovereignty of the King. Espionage and spying are the least understood, yet one of the most interesting aspects of the history of the American Revolution. Intelligence gathering has traditionally been considered the domain of men. Until recently, the exploits of women who served as spies have often been overlooked or considered of little importance.This presentation details the fascinating exploits and daring of many of the spies of the Revolutionary War. When many colonists decided to end their relationship with England to become an independent nation, citizens on both sides of the conflict became agents of espionage. They served as couriers and used various means to convey useful information as agents for both the British and the Patriots.
Instructor: Herb Kaufman
JCC Member: $18/per class | Guest/JPATH: $23/per class
Take the AARP Smart Driver classroom course, and you may save money on your car insurance!*
– Refresh your driving skills and explore the latest traffic laws.
– Understand the importance of proper maintenance of your vehicle.
– Learn research-based driving strategies to help you stay safe behind the wheel.
*Upon completion, you may be eligible to receive an auto insurance discount. Other restrictions may apply. Consult your agent for detailsAARP Members: $25 ($20 AARP Course and $5 JCC members)
Non-AARP Members: $30 ($25 AARP course and $5 non-JCC members)Limited class size to first 10 registrants.
Thursdays, October 22 – October 29 • 1:30 PM-2:45 PM
Join a musical journey through the evolution of crooning, from its early pioneers to its modern interpreters. From the timeless voices of Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra to the contemporary charm of Michael Bublé, participants will explore the artistry and style of performers who shaped generations of popular music, including Sammy Davis Jr., Tony Bennett, Nat King Cole, Bobby Darin, and Harry Connick Jr.
Instructor: Leila Joffe
JCC Member: $18/per class | Guest/JPATH: $23/per class
Benjamin Franklin said, “If we do not all hang together, we will most assuredly all hang separately.”Beginning with the origins of the first English settlements through the Treaty of Paris in 1783, we examine the major political, economic, military, and social aspects that enveloped the Jewish community in the American Revolution. Jews who settled in British America came for many reasons and established the first Jewish communities in the colonies. We highlight the often-untold history of Jewish settlers who both remained loyal to the King, and those who served in the Continental Army and sacrificed in their support for independence from England.We open the vaults of history and unwind the true story of the role of the Jewish community in the American Revolution from its first 17th-century settlements through the turbulent political and military events until American independence in 1783.
Instructor: Herb Kaufman
JCC Member: $18/per class | Guest/JPATH: $23/per class
Tuesdays, October 27 – November 17 | 10:30 AM-11:45 AM
Topics discussed will include ethical issues in surveillance pricing, employers using artificial intelligence to help them in the process of hiring new employees, and prediction markets.
JCC Member: $18/per class | Guest/JPATH: $23/per class
Alexandrina Victoria was the granddaughter of King George III. She first learned about her future role as a young princess when she was 10 years old. Originally fifth in line of succession, as the result of her uncles having no legitimate heirs, 18-year-old Victoria ascended to the throne on June 20, 1837. Her reign became known as the Victorian Era, a time of great invention, innovation, and originality.This program provides an educational and entertaining look at the life and culture of the Victorians and examines many entertaining and historical events and cultural phenomena.
JCC Member: $18/per class | Guest/JPATH: $23/per class
Join Dr. Bill Rosenberg as we discuss some of the most important political issues facing the U.S. and the world today.
November 9: After the Midterms: The Future Political Landscape
How will the Midterms impact the future of governing in the US at the national level? What is the balance of power looking like between the parties with the two chambers, the House and Senate, particularly with those who serve as Independents. Now that the midterms are over, what does the future look for Democrats and Republicans in terms of the 2028 Presidential Campaigns? The invisible primary has already begun in the quest for candidates, campaign staff, and money.
November 23: Religion & Governance
How does religious law, expressed through Shira Law, either through Sunni and Shia traditions, versus Western Judeo-Christian principles, likely impact society and governance in the US, Europe, and the Mid-East going forward? Is governing through a religious lens a good idea?
JCC Member: $18/per class | Guest/JPATH: $23/per class
Behind the familiar melodies of folk, rock, soul, and dance music lie centuries of musical traditions from around the world. Participants will trace the global roots of these genres, uncovering the cultural influences that shaped their harmonies and rhythms. Join this series to gain a deeper appreciation for the global traditions that continue to echo through today’s music.
November 10: The Mighty Handful, How a Small Group of Russian Nationalist Composers Shaped the Sound of Rock
November 17: How Celtic / Irish / Scottish Traditions Shaped the Sound of American Folk Music and Even Rock Balladry
November 24: How African & African American Musical Traditions Created the Foundation of Popular Music, from Elvis to Beyonce
JCC Member: $18/per class | Guest/JPATH: $23/per class
Join us again as we continue delving into the crowd-pleasing work of the legendary director with these unique selections from his diverse work sampled from different parts of his career.
November 11: Rebecca (1940) – 130 min.
with Laurence Olivier, Joan Fontaine, and Judith Anderson
November 18: Spellbound (1945) – 111 min.
with Gregory Peck, Joan Fontaine, and Leo G. Carroll
November 25: The Family Plot (1976) – 120 min.
with Karen Black, Bruce Dern, and Barbara Harris
JCC Member: $10/per class | Guest/JPATH: $15/per class
Thursdays, November 12 – December 10 | 1:00 PM-3:00 PM
Already play Mah Jongg and want to up your game? Each week we will play Mah Jongg and take time to discuss tactics such as picking your hand, evaluating, and finding connections on the card, defensive playing, and more!
JCC Member: $18/per class | Guest/JPATH: $23/per class
November 12 – December 10 | 10:30 AM-12:30 PM
Perfect for beginners and newer players looking to build confidence, improve strategy, and enjoy supervised play in a welcoming environment.
JCC Member: $18/per class | Guest/JPATH: $23/per class
November 13 – 20 | 10:00 AM-11:15 AM
On this journey, we will head south, to Antarctica and Australia, and explore these distant regions through a combined geographical and historical approach. The word ‘Antarctica’ conveys many images: icy landscapes, bitter temperatures, penguin colonies, and midnight sun, to name just a few. We will delve into plate tectonics, past climates, polar exploration, and more. Australia also conveys vivid images: the Outback, indigenous inhabitants, unique flora and fauna, reefs, European exploration and colonization, and more. Pack your parka and sunglasses as we delve into a mosaic of topics which will help to explain what makes these lands way down under so unique.
JCC Member: $18/per class | Guest/JPATH: $23/per class
World War II is often presented in school and in the media as a series of invasions and set-piece battles. However, there were many secret operations and innovations that remained confidential for many years after the war. There are also many actual historical events, incidents, and interesting personalities that are purposely left out of history education, such as the Ghost Army of World War II, the secrets of the Richey Boys, secret drones, bouncing bombs, and the Japanese plan to use weather balloons to attack America. Historical knowledge is often imperfect or erroneously portrayed by myths, half-truths, general omissions, or even total fabrication.This program focuses on these unusual and often controversial incidents and events. We will examine these once top-secret incidents and episodes that they never taught you in high school.
JCC Member: $18/per class | Guest/JPATH: $23/per class
Join this musical journey through the evolution of crooning, from its early pioneers to its modern interpreters. From the timeless voices of Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra to the contemporary charm of Michael Bublé, participants will explore the artistry and style of performers who shaped generations of popular music, including Sammy Davis Jr., Tony Bennett, Nat King Cole, Bobby Darin, and Harry Connick Jr.
JCC Member: $18/per class | Guest/JPATH: $23/per class
Between Thanksgiving and the various December holidays, we will discuss the ethics of some tricky situations that arise when families gather to celebrate holidays.
JCC Member: $18/per class | Guest/JPATH: $23/per class
Behind the familiar melodies of folk, rock, soul, and dance music lie centuries of musical traditions from around the world. Participants will trace the global roots of these genres, uncovering the cultural influences that shaped their harmonies and rhythms. Join this series to gain a deeper appreciation for the global traditions that continue to echo through today’s music.
December 1: Middle Eastern & North African Traditions: How the Maqam Scales of the Middle East provided the Psychedelic, Mystical and Introspective Landscapes for Musical Acts like the Doors, Led Zeppelin, and Sting
December 8: How Indian Classical Music (Hindustani and Carnatic) impacted the sound of the Beatles, the Byrds, the Rolling Stones, and fueled the Entire Psychedelic and Raga-Rock Movement
December 15: How Latin American & Caribbean Traditions Became the Fabric of American Dance Music
JCC Member: $18/per class | Guest/JPATH: $23/per class
The power and the reach of the world of communications and the entertainment business are examined in serious and satirical style in this quartet of films that look at the power of technology and the people who are part of it.
December 2: The Social Network (2010) – 120 min.
with Jesse Eisenberg, Justin Timberlake, and Andrew Garfield
December 9: A Face in the Crowd (1957) – 125 min.
with Andy Griffith, Walter Matthau, and Patricia Neal
December 16: Quiz Show (1994) – 133 min.
with Ralph Fiennes, John Turturro, and Rob Morrow
December 23: The Truman Show (1998) – 103 min.
with Jim Carrey, Laura Linney, and Ed Harris
December 30: My Favorite Year (1982) – 92 min.
with Peter O’Toole, Mark Linn-Baker, and Joseph Bologna
JCC Member: $10/per class | Guest/JPATH: $15/per class
Join this six-week musical journey through the evolution of crooning, from its early pioneers to its modern interpreters. From the timeless voices of Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra to the contemporary charm of Michael Bublé, participants will explore the artistry and style of performers who shaped generations of popular music, including Sammy Davis Jr., Tony Bennett, Nat King Cole, Bobby Darin, and Harry Connick Jr.
JCC Member: $18/per class | Guest/JPATH: $23/per class
The name “China” conveys many images: the Great Wall, Mao Zedong, the One-Child Policy, Mongols, the Belt and Road Initiative to name just a few. The class will examine this vast region through a combined physical and human geographic lens, delving into its fascinating past and present while also situating China in relation to its neighbors, particularly Japan, the Korean Peninsula, Pacific Russia, and Mongolia. Topics to be discussed: the Silk Roads, Mongols, the Tibetan Plateau, trade and population policies, maritime exploration, European encounters, and more.
JCC Member: $18/per class | Guest/JPATH: $23/per class
Join Dr. Bill Rosenberg as we discuss some of the most important political issues facing the U.S. and the world today.
December 7: Age & Branch Influence: The Future of the Supreme Court
Independent of their health status, will there be resignations on the U.S. Supreme Court soon, and how might those decisions be influenced by the balance of power between the House, Senate, and the Presidency? Two of the oldest Justices, Justices Thomas and Alito, are now in their 70s. Three Justices are in their 60s, and four are in their 50s.
December 14: Gerrymandering Across the States
What is the process of gerrymandering at the state level for national elective offices? Is it done equally in Blue and Red States? Is the process a good or bad thing?
JCC Member: $18/per class | Guest/JPATH: $23/per class
Join instructor Sarah Rosenson for an engaging and thought-provoking series based on scenarios from the New York Times Ethicist Column.
December 8 – This session highlights scenarios that ask participants to consider whether a neighbor, friend, or colleague is acting appropriately, and to discuss how to handle situations when they are not.
December 15 – In this session, participants will explore scenarios that focus on games like pickleball and Monopoly and discuss the ethical questions that may emerge during play.
JCC Member: $18/per class | Guest/JPATH: $23/per class
“People who became food?” “Is there really an Uncle Sam?” “What is the true story behind the Star-Spangled Banner?” “Did Teddy Roosevelt truly lead a cavalry charge up San Juan Hill?” “Did American cowboys actually wear ten-gallon hats?”Many of these stories and legends have seeped into the story of American history and are repeated as fact in schools, history books, and televised history programs. But are these stories actually true, or are they American folklore and distorted or altered to provide a more interesting account? Historical knowledge is often imperfect or inaccurately portrayed by myths, half-truths, general omissions, or even total fabrication.This program focuses on American history and these unusual and often controversial incidents and events. We will examine these myths, stories, and events that they never taught in high school.
JCC Member: $18/per class | Guest/JPATH: $23/per class
Through the years we have heard and read about many interesting personalities and events that have become the “things of legend?” Many have taken on a life of their own, resulting in books, movies, and television programs that lead us to believe that these were actual people and that the events truly happened. Every day stories are repeated in high schools, museums, and television programs because they are catchy, humorous, or entertaining (“Was there really a Lady Godiva?” “How many Salem witches were burned at the stake?” “Did Robin Hood save King Richard?” “When did King Arthur live?”)
This program focuses on these legends and stories of mysterious, misrepresented, and often wholly created incidents and events. You will learn the truth about these myths, stories, and events that they never taught you in high school.
JCC Member: $18/per class | Guest/JPATH: $23/per class
Tickets include: Roundtrip motorcoach transportation, Orchestra Level Seats, time in Philadelphia before the show
*Lunch is on your own
The party’s roaring in Philadelphia!
THE GREAT GATSBY? is a “Broadway extravaganza that explodes with life and energy” (Entertainment Weekly). Based on the classic American novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald, the Tony Award-winning new musical is an unforgettable journey of love, wealth and tragedy that brings the Roaring Twenties to life on stage.
Payment required to reserve a spot. Tickets are non-refundable
