Register for Life Long Learning Classes!

 

Learning is a lifelong journey at our Saltzman Foundation Life Long 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:

Looking for more information or need help registering for a class? Contact Hanna DiMassimo hdimassimo@jfedsnj.org and Sarah Sellers ssellers@jfedsnj.org


September 2024

9/11 Memorial Museum and lunch in Little Italy
Date: September 8
Bus departs JCC parking lot: 9:00am
Bus Departs NYC: 6:00pm
Join us for a meaningful trip as we travel to the National September 11 Memorial in New York City. We will pay tribute and honor the nearly 3,000 people killed in the terror attacks at the World Trade Center, at the Pentagon, and Shanksville, PA.
What’s included:
Roundtrip motorcoah transpotation
Reserved admission to 9/11 Museum
Time in Little Italy for lunch
Snacks on the bus
JCC Member: $160
Guest: $180
Tickets are non-refundable

Funny Jewish Men
Quick with one-liners! Precise with physical comedy! Able to tell hilarious stories in a single routine! Look!  Up on the stage! It’s a funny Jewish man! Actually, there have been a lot of them out there making us laugh over the years, and in this class, you’ll get a primer on the life and humor of The Marx Brothers, Jack Benny, The Three Stooges, Jerry Lewis, Milton Berle, Jerry Seinfeld and Larry David, Danny Kaye, Rodney Dangerfield, and many others. Presented by Temple University journalism professor and failed standup comic Irv Slifkin.
2 Wednesdays
September 11 and 18
10am – 11:15am
JCC Members: $15 per class
Guest: $20 per class

The History of Jewish America from the Revolution Through the Civil War
Instructor: Herb Kaufman
Around 1607, the first colonists began to arrive in America. Some came to avoid religious persecution, some to enhance their economic livelihood, and some to explore what the new colonies had to offer. From the very beginning, small numbers of Jewish men and women began to emigrate to the colonies. Although relatively forgotten in history, many Jewish men supported the Patriot cause and served in both civilian and military capacities with distinction in the American Revolution. By the time of the Civil War around 200,000 Jews were living in both the North and the South. Southern Jews were well assimilated into the Southern life style while many Jews in the North were recent immigrants who stood solidly with President Lincoln. We explore how the Jewish population remained steadfast to their cause on both sides in the Revolution and Civil War, often expressing their thoughts in writing. This presentation will describe how the Jewish community reacted to war, as well as the role of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln and their relationship to the Jewish community.
2 Mondays
September 16 and 30
10:30am – 11:30am
JCC Members: $15 class
Guest: $20 class

Basic Drawing
Instructor: Gerry Lomsky
Learn a life-long hobby that you can enjoy anywhere, anytime, with friends, family, and even grandchildren! Landscapes, still life, and even exciting action will be proud take-home drawings that will teach you about perspective, shading, shadows, and color. The course will be taught by Gerry Lomsky, formerly of Haddonfield Public Schools and Pioneer Academy of Cherry Hill.
4 Tuesdays
September 3, 10, 17, and 24
9:30am – 10:15am
JCC Members: $15 per class
Guest: $20 per class

Gender Equality, Chosenness, and Other Issues in Jewish Liturgy
Instructor: Sarah Rosenson
The ancient words of the prayerbook, or siddur, connect us to our ancestors, and to other Jews all over the world who have said and continue to say those same words.  But what happens when worldviews change?  When, if ever, should liturgy be changed to reflect more modern ideas?  We will discuss these questions in relation to some of the most central prayers in Jewish liturgy, focusing on issues of making prayers more inclusive of women, and the concept of the Jews as the chosen people.  Note:  you do not have to be Jewish to take this class, and no prior knowledge of the prayerbook is required.
3 Tuesdays
September 10, 17, and 24
10:30am – 11:45am
JCC Members: $15 per class
Guest: $20 per class

Painting
Instructor: Phyllis Rosenberg
Come to a painting class to learn or refresh your painting skills using either oil paint or acrylic paint. There will be demonstrations to introduce new methods that will help you see how to do it yourself. This is a challenging class that will show you how real paintings are made. The classical painting approaches taught at the Pennsylvania Academy of Arts where the teacher trained will be shown and explained. You will have the whole class to practice and improve your application of what you learn. Come for the gentle positive instruction and the artistic companionship of fellow art lovers.
Bring your own supplies or supply list will be provided upon registration.
3 Wednesdays
9:30am – 12:15pm
September 4, 11, and 18
JCC Members: $20 per class
Guest: $30 per class

How Politics Works: National & International Political Hot Topics
Instructor: Dr. Bill Rosenberg
We will explore and discuss some of the nations and world’s hot political topics with Dr. Bill Rosenberg. These topics will likely include the US Presidential Party Conventions, US Election laws, the crises in Ukraine and Israel, Autocracies and Democracies, the history and political consequences of trials of elected officials, and public support for political leadership and institutions.
2 Wednesdays
September 11 and 25
1:30pm – 2:45pm
JCC Members: $15 per class
Guest: $20 per class

Canasta Strategies
Instructor: Bernadette Hennessy May
Do you know how to play canasta and want to improve your play and enjoyment? This three-week course will cover topics including 5-card and 3-card rules, signaling sevens, using special hands, and more. Each week a new concept will be introduced, and then it is off to the tables to play, enjoy, and improve our canasta game.
3 Thursdays
September 12, 19, and 26
1pm – 3pm
JCC Members: $15 per class
Guest: $20 per class

Richard Rodgers & Oscar Hammerstein
Instructor: Leila Joffe
In this course, we will take an in-depth look at Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein. They were one of the most successful teams in musical theater. We will learn about the beginning of their careers and what led them to their very first show, Oklahoma. Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein transformed the landscape of musical theater, elevating it to a new level of artistry and storytelling. Their influence can still be felt today, as their works continue to be celebrated and performed around the world.
3 Thursdays
September 19 and 26
1:30pm – 2:45pm
JCC Members: $15 per class
Guest: $20 per class

Expedition: South Asia
Instructor: Judy Okun
From towering peaks to exotic spices, India and South Asia have been at the fulcrum of world history and events for centuries. Join us as we examine the subcontinent through history, geography, culture, tectonics, population dynamics, environment, language, and current geopolitical issues as well.
Friday, September 20
10am – 11:15am
JCC Members: $15 per class
Guest: $20 per class

October 2024

Wicked on Broadway

Come spend the day in Oz, as the Katz JCC travels to see WICKED on Broadway! Declared “The Best Musical of the Decade” by Entertainment Weekly and “A Cultural Phenomenon” by Variety, WICKED is sure to have you singing all day and searching for the Wizard!

Ticket includes: Orchestra Seats, round-trip transportation, and snacks on the bus.

Wednesday, October 30

Bus departs Katz JCC parking lot at 10am

Bus leaves NY at 5pm

*Lunch is on your own*

JCC Member rate: $250

Guest: $300

Register Here


Abraham Lincoln and the Jewish Community

Instructor: Herb Kaufman

One of the least understood relationships of the Civil war era is that of President Abraham Lincoln and the American Jewish Community. Lincoln based his political philosophy of the Declaration of Independence; that “all men are created equal.” This program explores Lincoln’s Constitution and how the political and cultural times directly impacted his relationships with the Jewish community.

Monday, October 7

10:30-11:30am

JCC Members: $15

Guest: $20

Register Here


Almost Forgotten: The Heroic History of Jews in the American Military

Instructor: Herb Kaufman

Little has been written about the gallantry and heroism of Jewish soldiers in the American military. From the beginning of our country with the Revolutionary War, through the Civil War, Korea, Vietnam, and both World Wars, Jewish men have served with honor, courage and loyalty. It is critical to our American story that the contributions of Jewish soldiers never be forgotten and remain in the forefront of the history of our country.

Monday, October 21

10:30-11:30am

JCC Members: $15

Guest: $20 class

Register Here


How Politics Works: National & International Political Hot Topics

Instructor: Dr. Bill Rosenberg

We will explore and discuss some of the nations and world’s hot political topics with Dr. Bill Rosenberg. These topics will likely include the US Presidential Party Conventions, US Election laws, the crises in Ukraine and Israel, Autocracies and Democracies, the history and political consequences of trials of elected officials, and public support for political leadership and institutions.

2 Mondays

October 21 & 28

1:30-2:45pm

JCC Members: $15/per class

Guest: $20 class/per class

Register Here


Basic Drawing

Instructor: Gerry Lomksy

Learn a life-long hobby that you can enjoy anywhere, anytime, with friends, family, and even grandchildren! Landscapes, still life, and even exciting action will be proud take-home drawings. The class will teach you about perspective, shading, shadows, and color. The course will be taught by Gerry Lomsky, formerly of Haddonfield Public Schools and Pioneer Academy of Cherry Hill.

4 Tuesdays

October 8, 15, 22, & 29

9:30-10:15am

JCC Members: $15 class/per class

Guest: $20 class/per class

Register Here


Ethics in Modern Life: Scenarios from the New York Times Ethicist

Instructor: Sarah Rosenson

In each of these sessions we will discuss several real-life ethical dilemmas sent in to the New York Times Ethicist Column. Our first class will focus on criminal justice scenarios relating to police officers and/or jury duty. Next, we will explore situations involving offering and receiving monetary rewards. And lastly, we will talk about dilemmas which arise when friends and relatives are bad with money.

3 Tuesdays

October 8, 15, & 22

10:30-11:45am

JCC Members: $15 class/per class

Guest: $20 class/per class

Register Here


Painting

Instructor: Phyllis Rosenberg

Come to a painting class to learn or refresh your painting skills using either oil paint, acrylic paint or other media. There will be demonstrations to introduce new methods that will help you see how to do it yourself. The classical painting approaches taught at the Pennsylvania Academy of Arts, where the teacher trained, will be shown and explained. Come for the gentle positive instruction and the artistic companionship of fellow art lovers. Bring your own supplies. Suggested supply will be sent upon registration.

4 Wednesdays

October 2, 9, 16, & 30

9:30-11:30am

JCC Members: $20 class/per class

Guest: $30 class/per class

Register Here


The World of Classic Crime Films Part I

Instructor: Irv Slifkin

Take a time-machine back to the 1940s and 1950s with this series that offers five weeks of superb film noirs—crime films that crackle with intrigue, excitement and entertainment, featuring great performances and shadowy surroundings. Hosted by Temple University professor Irv Slifkin.

Film: Double Indemnity (1944) w/Barbara Stanwyck, Fred MacMurray, Edward G. Robinson.

Wednesday, October 30

1:30-3:30pm

JCC Members: $5

Guest: $10

Register Here


Explore Drawing Materials & Techniques

Instructor: Leeannwyn Stoner

This class provides instruction on drawing as a significant classical medium to create art. Each week, a new drawing medium and subject are drawn for any level of artistic skill. All drawing materials will be provided, or you can bring your own. Some artists may prefer to work in their own sketchbook. Drawing subjects will be provided that best practice the medium. We will work with graphite pencils, conte crayons (portrait tones), watercolor pencils (but no water), charcoal, oil pastels, markers and, of course, art pencils!

Thursday, October 31

10-11:30am

JCC Members: $15

Guest: $20

Register Here


November 2024

The Spy Next Door

Instructor: Herb Kaufman

From the American Revolution, through the Civil War and two World Wars, to the atomic age of the Manhattan Project, numerous Americans have betrayed America’s secrets and ultimately inflicted damage on America’s national security. America has remained particularly vulnerable to espionage because of a societal disbelief that those entrusted with the nation’s secrets would betray them. Beginning with the story of the Rosenberg’s through the most recent American spies, this presentation examines the often-incredible history of American citizens and espionage against the United States.

2 Mondays

November 11 & 25

10:30-11:30am

JCC Members: $15 class/per class

Guest: $20 class/per class

Register Here


How Politics Works: National & International Political Hot Topics

Instructor: Dr. Bill Rosenberg

We will explore and discuss some of the nations and world’s hot political topics with Dr. Bill Rosenberg. These topics will likely include the US Presidential Party Conventions, US Election laws, the crises in Ukraine and Israel, Autocracies and Democracies, the history and political consequences of trials of elected officials, and public support for political leadership and institutions.

2 Mondays

November 11 & 18

1:30-2:45pm

JCC Members: $15/per class

Guest: $20/per class

Register Here


Basic Drawing

Instructor: Gerry Lomksy

Learn a life-long hobby that you can enjoy anywhere, anytime, with friends, family, and even grandchildren! Landscapes, still life, and even exciting action will be proud take-home drawings that will teach you about perspective, shading, shadows, and color. The course will be taught by Gerry Lomsky, formerly of Haddonfield Public Schools and Pioneer Academy of Cherry Hill.

4 Tuesdays

November 5, 12, 19, & 26

9:30-10:15am

JCC Members: $15 class/per class

Guest: $20 class/per class

Register Here


Three Short Stories about Childhood

Instructor: Sarah Rosenson

Each week we will read one short story about childhood by a Jewish author: Isaac Babel, Isaac Bashevis Singer, or Grace Paley. For each story we will explore what is distinctively Jewish about it, and what universal experiences it describes. We will also talk about the literary devices used by the authors. Participants do not need to do reading in advance, as all the stories are very short, and we will read them together in class.

3 Tuesdays

November 5, 12, & 19

10:30-11:45am

JCC Members: $15 class/per class

Guest: $20 class/per class

Register Here


Painting

Instructor: Phyllis Rosenberg

Come to a painting class to learn or refresh your painting skills using either oil paint, acrylic paint or other media. There will be demonstrations to introduce new methods that will help you see how to do it yourself. The classical painting approaches taught at the Pennsylvania Academy of Arts, where the teacher trained, will be shown and explained. Come for the gentle positive instruction and the artistic companionship of fellow art lovers. Bring your own supplies. Suggested supply will be sent upon registration.

3 Wednesdays

November 6. 13, & 20

9:30-11:30am

JCC Members: $20/per class

Guest: $30 class/per class

Register Here


The World of Classic Crime Films Part II

Instructor: Irv Slifkin

Take a time-machine back to the 1940s and 1950s with this series that offers five weeks of superb film noirs—crime films that crackle with intrigue, excitement and entertainment, featuring great performances and shadowy surroundings. Hosted by Temple University professor Irv Slifkin.

Nov 6: Pitfall (1948) w/Dick Powell, Lizabeth Scott, Jane Wyatt

Nov 13: The Asphalt Jungle (1950) w/Sterling Hayden, Louis Calhern, Marilyn Monroe Robinson.

Nov 20: Pickup on South Street (1953) w/Richard Widmark, Jean Peters, Thelma Ritter

3 Wednesdays

November 6, 13, & 20

1:30-3:30pm

JCC Members: $5 class/per class

Guest: $10 class/per class

Register Here


Explore Drawing Materials & Techniques

Instructor: Leeannwyn Stoner

Explore Drawing Materials and Techniques provides instruction on drawing as a significant classical medium to create art. Each week, a new drawing medium and subject are drawn for any level of artistic skill. All drawing materials will be provided, or you can bring your own. Some artists may prefer to work in their own sketchbook. Drawing subjects will be provided that best practice the medium. We will work with graphite pencils, conte crayons (portrait tones), watercolor pencils (but no water), charcoal, oil pastels, markers and, of course, art pencils!

3 Thursdays

November 7, 14, & 21

10-11:30am

JCC Members: $15 class/per class

Guest: $20 class/per class

Register Here


Introduction to Canasta

Instructor: Bernadette Hennessy May

If you are either a total beginner or have a bit of Canasta knowledge, but need more supervised practice, this class is for you! In this friendly and relaxed class, Bernadette will teach and improve your canasta skills while you meet other players!

3 Thursdays

November 7, 14, & 21

1-3pm

JCC Members: $15 class/per class

Guest: $20 class/per class

Register Here


Tony Award Winning Shows

Instructor: Leila Joffe

In this course, our main focus will be on Tony Award-winning shows from the past two decades. We will compare the relevance of recent winners to shows that were recognized 20 years ago. Through clips and discussions, we will learn about the performers and creators of the award-winning musicals of the last 20 years.

3 Thursdays

November 7, 14, & 21

1:30-2:45pm

JCC Members: $15 class/per class

Guest: $20 class/per class

Register Here


Exploring the Caribbean

Instructor: Judy Okun

Beyond the beautiful beaches and gentle breezes, there are a myriad of fascinating geographical and historical aspects to the Caribbean. Join us on this voyage where we delve into plate tectonics, ocean currents, climate, the history of indigenous groups, European contact, piracy and sugar plantation slavery in this fascinating part of the world.

2 Fridays

November 1 & 8

10-11:15am

JCC Members: $15 class/per class

Guest: $20 class/per class

Register Here


December 2024

Save the Date: Hot Club Live and Casino Night at the J is back

‘Twas the night before Chanukah and all through the J, people were gambling and starting to sway. The band was playing numbers, oh so nice, and the bar was serving drinks, straight up or with ice! With places to sit and mingle with friends, by nights end, you will have both old and new. So save the date and take a chance…there will be wonderful prizes too!

December 24, 2024

7pm

21+

Early Bird pricing available October 1st


History’s Mysteries of American History

Instructor: Herb Kaufman

“People who became food; How much is our money really worth? Is there really an Uncle Sam? 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 on televised history programs. This program focuses on American history and these unusual and often controversial incidents and events. We will examine these myths, stories and events of what they never taught in high school.

Monday, December 2

10:30-11:30am

JCC Members: $15

Guest: $20

Register Here


Happy Holidays: A Look at Our Holiday Traditions

Instructor: Herb Kaufman

Ever wonder who is known in history as the “Mother of Thanksgiving,” or “Santa Claus’ Father.” Have you ever thought about why Hanukkah involves eating donuts, or when did Santa start living in department stores? These and many other interesting questions are explored in this timely holiday program. Many of our traditions were started by authors in their poems and books, and cartoonists with a holiday idea.

Monday, December 16

10:30-11:30am

JCC Members: $15

Guest: $20

Register Here


How Politics Works: National & International Political Hot Topics

Instructor: Dr. Bill Rosenberg

We will explore and discuss some of the nations and world’s hot political topics with Dr. Bill Rosenberg. These topics will likely include the US Presidential Party Conventions, US Election laws, the crises in Ukraine and Israel, Autocracies and Democracies, the history and political consequences of trials of elected officials, and public support for political leadership and institutions.

2 Mondays

December 9 & 16

1:30-2:45pm

JCC Members: $15/per class

Guest: $20/per class

Register Here


Basic Drawing

Instructor: Gerry Lomksy

Learn a life-long hobby that you can enjoy anywhere, anytime, with friends, family, and even grandchildren! Landscapes, still life, and even exciting action will be proud take-home drawings that will teach you about perspective, shading, shadows, and color. The course will be taught by Gerry Lomsky, formerly of Haddonfield Public Schools and Pioneer Academy of Cherry Hill.

4 Tuesdays

December 3, 10, 17, & 24

9:30-10:15am

JCC Members: $15 class/per class

Guest: $20 class/per class

Register Here


Ethics and Chanukah

Instructor: Sarah Rosenson

As Chanukah approaches, we will not discuss ethics in modern life; rather, we will discuss ethics in ancient life! Did the Maccabees and other Jews of ancient Israel behave ethically? Is it ethical to be martyred rather than betray your religion? Come share your views! You do not have to be Jewish or celebrate Chanukah to take this class.

Tuesday, December 3

10:30-11:45am

JCC Members: $15

Guest: $20

Register Here


Chanukah Story Time for Adults

Instructor: Sarah Rosenson

The year 2024 has been a very difficult one for our nation and our world. As the year winds down, we will relax together and read three Chanukah stories for young children by Isaac Bashevis Singer. We will discuss their deeper themes, and also share our own memories. This class is open to all.

Tuesday, December 10

10:30-11:45am

JCC Members: $15

Guest: $20

Register Here


The World of Classic Crime Films Part III

Instructor: Irv Slifkin

Take a time machine back to the 1940s and 1950s with this series that offers five weeks of superb film noirs—crime films that crackle with intrigue, excitement and entertainment, featuring great performances and shadowy surroundings. Hosted by Temple University professor Irv Slifkin.

Film: Touch of Evil (1958) w/Charlton Heston, Janet Leigh, Orson Welles. Robinson.

Wednesday, December 4

1:30-3:30pm

JCC Members: $5

Guest: $10

Register Here


Introduction to Mah Jongg

Instructor: Bernadette Hennessy May

If you are either a total beginner or have a bit of Mah Jongg knowledge but need more supervised practice, this class is for you! In this friendly and relaxed class, Bernadette will teach and improve your Mah Jongg skills while you meet other players.

3 Thursdays

December 5, 12, & 19

1-3pm

JCC Members: $15 class/per class

Guest: $20 class/per class

Register Here


Explore Drawing Materials & Techniques

Instructor: Leeannwyn Stoner

Explore Drawing Materials and Techniques provides instruction on drawing as a significant classical medium to create art. Each week, a new drawing medium and subject are drawn for any level of artistic skill. All drawing materials will be provided, or you can bring your own. Some artists may prefer to work in their own sketchbook. Drawing subjects will be provided that best practice the medium. We will work with graphite pencils, conte crayons (portrait tones), watercolor pencils (but no water), charcoal, oil pastels, markers and, of course, art pencils!

3 Thursdays

December 5, 12, & 19

10-11:30am

JCC Members: $15/per class

Guest: $20 class/per class

Register Here


Tony Award Winning Shows

Instructor: Leila Joffe

In this course, our main focus will be on Tony Award-winning shows from the past two decades. We will compare the relevance of recent winners to shows that were recognized 20 years ago. Through clips and discussions, we will learn about the performers and creators of the award-winning musicals of the last 20 years.

3 Thursdays

December 5, 12, & 19

1:30-2:45pm

JCC Members: $15/per class

Guest: $20/per class

Register Here


Antarctica: A Land Apart

Instructor: Judy Okun

The word ‘Antarctica’ conveys many images—icy landscapes, bitter temperatures, penguin colonies, and midnight sun—to name just a few. We will examine this vast continent through a geographical and historical lens, delving into plate tectonics, past climates, Aristotle’s theories, exploration, present studies, and more.  Bundle and join us on this adventure to a place like none other on Earth.

2 Fridays

December 13 & 20

10-11:15am

JCC Members: $15/per class

Guest: $20/per class

Register Here


Virtual Class Opportunities

  1. JCC of Central New Jersey | Adult Enrichment (jccnj.org)
  2. One Day University (ODU), Use code katzjcc when enrolling
  3. National JCC Alliance and Partnerships with other JCCs
  • In-person class registration is per individual, and virtual class registration is per household.

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In observance of Rosh Hashanah, the JCC will close at 3:00pm on Wednesday, October 2nd, and will be closed on Thursday, October 3rd and Friday, October 4th. We will reopen at 7:00am on Saturday, October 5th.