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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
Rebellion and Revenue: The Intriguing History of Money and Taxes in America
Instructor: Herb Kaufman
Taxation without representation!” This cry rang out in 1765 as the English Parliament enacted the first of a series of taxes on the American colonies. The issue of taxation bewildered President Lincoln who once exclaimed, “Money! I don’t know anything about money!” This class examines the history of money beginning with the invention of the dollar, through the imposition of the first income tax, the Gilded Age of the 19th century and the 16th Amendment, tariffs, and the politics behind our money today.
Monday, April 22
10:30am – 11:30am
JCC Members: $15 class
Guest: $20 class
Difficult Stories of Women in the Bible
Instructor: Sarah Rosenson
In this three-session interactive discussion class we will delve into some difficult stories found in the Book of Genesis. Women studied will include Hagar, Lot’s wife and daughters, and Dinah.
3 Tuesdays
April 2, 9, and 16
10:30am – 11:45am
JCC Members: $15 per class
Guest: $20 per class
Pop-up Greeting Card Series
Instructor: Phyllis Rosenberg
Make pop-up greeting cards, one card each time we meet. This is a fun activity where you make personalized greeting cards that can be used for any number of occasions, Mother’s Day, Birthdays, or Graduations. The colorful cards have a big impact when you open them and see the flowers or animals pop out. The cards are so pretty you might be tempted to keep them for yourself. Everyone will leave with a nice big card each week that they made and personalized themselves.
Materials Cost: $3.00/class
2 Wednesdays
April 3 & 17
9:30am-11:30am
JCC Members: $25 per class
Guest: $35 per class
How Politics Works: International & National Hot Topics
Instructor: Bill Rosenberg
We will explore and discuss some of the nations and world’s hot political topics with Dr. Bill Rosenberg.
2 Wednesdays
April 3 & 17
1:30pm – 2:45pm
JCC Members: $15 per class
Guest: $20 per class
Hand Drawing 101
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 Thursday
April 4, 11, 18, & 25
10:45am – 11:30am
JCC Members: $15 per class
Guest: $20 per class
Mah Jongg Strategies
Instructor: Bernadette Hennessy May
You already play Mah Jongg and want to up your game. Each week we will play Mah Jongg and take time to discuss strategies such as picking your hand, evaluating, and finding connections on the card, defensive playing and more!
3 Thursdays
April 11, 18, & 25
1pm – 3pm
JCC Members: $15 per class
Guest: $20 per class
Harold Arlen
Instructor: Leila Joffe
In this course, we will learn about the great composer Harold Arlen. He composed more than 500 songs Including “Over the Rainbow”. We will also learn about the legendary actress who made it famous, Judy Garland.
4 Thursdays
April 4, 11, 18, & 25
1:30pm – 2:45pm
JCC Members: $15 per class
Guest: $20 per class
Exploring the Dynamics of US Military Aid to Israel: A Two-Part Series
Instructor: Kenneth Goldberg
Join us for a thought-provoking exploration into the intricate relationship between the United States and Israel through the lens of military aid. In the first session of this enlightening two-part series, we will delve deep into the history of US military assistance to Israel since its inception in 1948. Our focus will center on the pivotal role of the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) in shaping the infrastructure and defense capabilities of Israel. Through engaging presentations, firsthand accounts, and in-depth discussions, participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the strategic importance of US military aid to Israel and its lasting impact on regional security dynamics.
2 Thursdays
April 4 & 18
1:30pm – 2:45pm
JCC Members: $15 per class
Guest: $20 per class
The Forever Mutating Virus – Antisemitism
Instructor: Buntzie Churchill
Antisemitism is a very large hate for a very small group of barely 16 million globally, It is an intellectual disease, extremely infectious and massively destructive. It is fundamentally irrational. It seems to make no sense, any more than dementia or multiple sclerosis, make sense. If true, then why?
1 Friday
April 5
1:30pm – 2:30pm
JCC Members: $15 per class
Guest: $20 per class
With China, Breaking up is Hard to do!
Instructor: Buntzie Churchill
China has some intractable domestic problems, yet at the same time, China seeks to replace the United States as the most important nation in the Indo-Pacific region and to expand its influence globally. The critical variable regarding whether China is successful internationally is US domestic, economic, military, and diplomatic strength and resolve — not Chinese actions.
Friday, April 12
1:30pm – 2:30pm
JCC Members: $15 per class
Guest: $20 per class
Secrets, Deceptions and Lies: The History of Spying from the American Revolution to World War II Part One
Instructor: Herb Kaufman
The often-untold stories of spying, deception, clandestine operations, secret missions, double agents, and codebreakers are some of the most fascinating narratives of American history. The accounts of the Culper Spy Ring, Nathan Hale, Pinkerton detectives, Civil War women disguised as men, the Ghost Army, and “The Man Who Never Was” continue to intrigue us. Beginning with the American Revolution, we will investigate the history of American espionage, sabotage and disinformation, including secret operations, codebreaking, cryptography, and spying from the Revolution through World War II.
2 Mondays
May 6 & 20
10:30am – 11:30am
JCC Members: $15 per class
Guest: $20 per class
Ethics in Modern Life: Some Issues in Bioethics
Instructor: Sarah Rosenson
We will explore some fascinating issues in this three-session interactive discussion class. Is a couple’s decision whether or not to have children an ethical decision? What are the ethical factors to consider? What are the many ethical issues involved in surrogate pregnancy? What are some of the ethical issues that come up around donation of organs, and how are they resolved differently in different countries? Come join the conversation!
3 Tuesdays
May 7, 14, and 21
10:30am – 11:45am
JCC Members: $15 per class
Guest: $20 per class
Pop-up Greeting Card Series
Instructor: Phyllis Rosenberg
Make pop-up greeting cards, one card each time we meet. This is a fun activity where you make personalized greeting cards that can be used for any number of occasions, including Mother’s Day, birthdays, or graduations. The colorful cards have a big impact when you open them and see the flowers or animals pop out. The cards are so pretty, you might be tempted to keep them for yourself. Everyone will leave with a nice, big card each week that they made and personalized themselves.
Materials Cost: $3.00/class
2 Wednesdays
May 1 & 15
9:30am-11:30am
JCC Members: $25 per class
Guest: $35 per class
How Politics Works: International & National Hot Topics
Instructor: Bill Rosenberg
We will explore and discuss some of the nations and world’s hot political topics with Dr. Bill Rosenberg.
2 Wednesdays
May 1 & 8
1:30pm – 2:45pm
JCC Members: $15 per class
Guest: $20 per class
Part 2: The Hollywood Blacklist
Instructor: Irv Slifkin
“The Hollywood Blacklist,” which ran from the mid-1940s to the late 1950s, is rich with compelling stories and movies that reflect the turbulent times. As a companion piece to last year’s class on the subject, we offer more gripping films from and about the era and thought-provoking discussion. Included are: High Noon (1952); On the Waterfront (1954); Guilty by Suspicion (1991); The Thing (from Another World) (1951); and Trumbo (2015).
5 Wednesdays
May 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29
10am-12:15pm
JCC Members: $15 per class
Guest: $20 per class
Hand Drawing 101
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 Thursdays
May 2, 16, 23, & 30
10:45am – 11:30am
JCC Members: $15 per class
Guest: $20 per class
Shining a Light on Jewish Women Changemakers
Instructor: Harriet Hendel
In this class, we will learn about women from different eras who were sent to prison for their unpopular beliefs and actions. They are from South Africa, Palestine, New York, and Poland. Two women are featured in movies, allowing us to watch segments on DVD. These women led controversial lives but were incredibly courageous, prepared to give their lives for a cause about which they were passionate. Join me in “meeting” Ethel Rosenberg, Ruth First, Hannah Szenes, and Irena Sendler. The time period we will cover begins in 1915 and ends in 2008.
Thursday, May 30
11am – 12:15pm
JCC Members: $15 class
Guest: $20 class
Introduction to Rummykub
Instructor: Bernadette Hennesy May
Rummykub is a tile game that is quickly growing in popularity. It is played by 2-6 people using tiles. Come and learn the basics and enjoy this fun new game all summer long.
2 Thursdays
May 9 & 16
1pm – 3pm
JCC Members: $15 per class
Guest: $20 per class
Introduction to Cribbage
Instructor: Bernadette Hennesy May
Cribbage is a card game where you keep score on a board with pegs. You can play with 2 – 6 players. Learn how to play this old English pub game. Cribbage uses a peg board for scoring, a standard 52-card deck, and whimsical terms such as “his mobs,” “muggins,” and “skunk.”
2 Thursdays
May 23 & 30
1pm – 3pm
JCC Members: $15 per class
Guest: $20 per class
Andrew Lloyd Webber
Instructor: Leila Joffe
In this course, we will learn about the great composer Andrew Lloyd Webber. In 2001, The New York Times referred to him as “the most commercially successful composer in history”. We will take an in-depth look at the life and works of this brilliant composer!
5 Thursdays
May 2, 9, 16, 23, & 30
1:30pm – 2:45pm
JCC Members: $15 per class
Guest: $20 per class
SS United States, Preserving America’s Flagship
Instructor: Kenneth Goldberg
Embark on a captivating voyage through maritime history with the SS United States. Launched in 1952, this iconic ocean liner, designed by naval architect William Gibbs, holds the record for the fastest Atlantic crossing. This presentation will be about ‘America’s Flagship,’ the SS United States, and the SS United States Conservancy, which leads the global effort to ensure that this enduring expression of American pride and innovation educates and inspires generations to come, including current plans to turn her into a floating hotel and conference center.
Thursday, May 2
1:30pm-2:45pm
JCC Members: $15 per class
Guest: $20 per class
Discover the Artistry of Richard Haas: An Exclusive Encounter
Instructor: Kenneth Goldberg
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of renowned muralist Richard Haas as we embark on a journey to explore his iconic works. Join us for a unique opportunity to delve into the visionary creations of this masterful artist whose trompe-l’oeil murals adorn cities across the globe. From breathtaking urban landscapes to mesmerizing architectural illusions, Haas’s artistry transcends boundaries, inviting viewers to reimagine the spaces they inhabit.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply curious about the intersection of art and urban landscapes, this event promises to be a truly enriching experience.
Thursday, May 16
1:30pm-2:45pm
JCC Members: $15 per class
Guest: $20 per class
Travels in the Pacific Northwest
Instructor: Judy Okun
The Pacific Northwest is a region of superlatives—Towering mountains, lush rainforests, powerful volcanoes and a rich historical record of native peoples, explorers, fur traders, and pioneers. Join us as we will examine the historical and geographical forces that contribute to this region’s allure and uniqueness.
2 Fridays
May 10 & 31
10am – 11:15am
JCC Members: $15 per class
Guest: $20 per class
Secrets, Deceptions and Lies: The History of Spying from the American Revolution to World War II Part Two
Instructor: Herb Kaufman
The often-untold stories of spying, deception, clandestine operations, secret missions, double agents, and codebreakers are some of the most fascinating narratives of American history. The accounts of the Culper Spy Ring, Nathan Hale, Pinkerton detectives, Civil War women disguised as men, the Ghost Army, and “The Man Who Never Was” continue to intrigue us. Beginning with the American Revolution we will investigate the history of American espionage, sabotage and dis-information including secret operations, codebreaking, cryptography, and spying from the Revolution through World War II.
2 Mondays
June 3 & 17
10:30am – 11:30am
JCC Members: $15 per class
Guest: $20 per class
21+ Trip to the Smithsonian Museums!
History comes alive at the Smithsonian museums in Washington, D.C.! On this one-day motorcoach tour, travel to our Nation’s capital and explore your choice of popular Smithsonian museums such as the History and Culture Museum, Air and Space Museum, American Art Museum, American History Museum, National Portrait Gallery, Natural History Museum, and many more.
Sunday, June 9
Depart JCC 9:30am
Depart D.C.: 5:30pm
*EACH PERSON MUST BE REGISTERED UNDER THEIR OWN NAME*
JCC Members: $140
Guest: $170
Quilling 101
Instructor: Besty Marksman
Join us for this brand-new class offered at the JCC! Quilling, an art form since 13th century China, involves the folding, curling, and gluing of paper strips. After this 4-week class, participants will go home with a beautiful handcrafted, hamsa quilling project. This class will be taught by Betsy Markman. She has been quilling since 2018 and currently has gallery space at the Voorhees Town Center. All levels welcome!
*One-time fee of $25 for supplies; please bring cash*
Monday, June 24, Wednesday, June 26, Friday, June 28
10am – 11:30am
JCC Members: $15 per class
Guest: $20 per class
Ethics in Modern Life: Artificial Intelligence
Instructor: Sarah Rosenson
In this session we will discuss artificial intelligence and the “responsibility gap:” If a device with artificial intelligence causes harm, who is responsible? Come share your views!
Tuesday, June 4
10:30am – 11:45am
JCC Members: $15 class
Guest: $20 class
Ethics in Modern Life: Should the Audubon Society Change its Name?
Instructor: Sarah Rosenson
In this session we will discuss whether the Audubon Society, along with streets, schools, and other institutions, should change their names because they are named after people who owned slaves. Come join the conversation and share your views!
Tuesday, June 11
10:30am – 11:45am
JCC Members: $15 class
Guest: $20 class
How Politics Works: International & National Hot Topics
Instructor: Bill Rosenberg
We will explore and discuss some of the nations and world’s hot political topics with Dr. Bill Rosenberg.
2 Wednesdays
May 29 & June 5
1:30 & pm – 2:45pm
JCC Members: $15 per class
Guest: $20 per class
Free- Hand Drawing 101
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. This introductory course will be taught by Gerry Lomsky, formerly of Haddonfield Public Schools and Pioneer Academy of Cherry Hill.
3 Thursdays
June 6, 20, & 27
10:45am – 11:30am
JCC Members: $15 per class
Guest: $20 per class
Shining a Light on Jewish Women Changemakers
Instructor: Harriet Hendel
In this class, we will learn about women from different eras who were sent to prison for their unpopular beliefs and actions. They are from South Africa, Palestine, New York, and Poland. Two women are featured in movies, allowing us to watch segments on DVD. These women led controversial lives but were incredibly courageous, prepared to give their lives for a cause about which they were passionate. Join me in “meeting” Ethel Rosenberg, Ruth First, Hannah Szenes, and Irena Sendler. The time period we will cover begins in 1915 and ends in 2008.
3 Thursdays
June 6, 20, & 27
11am – 12:15pm
JCC Members: $15 per class
Guest: $20 per class
Introduction to Hand & Foot
Instructor: Bernadette Hennessy May
Hand & Foot is a canasta variation where 3-6 decks of cards are used (typically one more deck of cards than you have players). No canasta knowledge is necessary to play this fun engaging game. Hand & Foot is typically played with 2-5 players but can be played with as many as 8. Originally created in the 1950s, it is growing in popularity.
3 Thursdays
June 6, 20, & 27
1pm – 3pm
JCC Members: $15 per class
Guest: $20 per class
Water, the West, and the Birth of the Environmental Movement
Instructor: Judy Okun
West of the 100th meridian, water becomes a scarce resource in the US. In this course, we will explore the major water issues which spurred on the idea of conservation and preservation in the US. Our focus will be Glen Canyon, the Colorado River, Dinosaur National Monument, the Los Angeles Aqueduct and Yosemite National Park.
2 Fridays
June 14 & 28
10am – 11:15am
JCC Members: $15 per class
Guest: $20 per class
