Shames JCC

The Community Stitch Project
2025-12-03 12:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York)
FREE, drop in any time, registration is request.

The Community Stitch Project is a collaborative art workshop with artist Natalya Khorover. We’ll transform discarded plastics into a vibrant mixed-media collage, with everyone sorting, cutting, pinning, and stitching pieces together. Please help by collecting soft, colorful, and clean plastic and bringing it to the J ahead of time or with you to the event. The final piece will be unveiled at the JCC as a bold celebration of creativity, teamwork, and sustainability.
This project is made possible with funds from Arts Alive, a regrant program of ArtsWestchester with support from the Office of the Governor, the New York State Legislature, and the New York State Council on the Arts.

Pop-Up: Ceramics from Maggie Chow
2025-12-04 08:00 - 14:00
Explore handmade, functional ceramics with special designs, all created locally in Westchester and without any toxic materials.

JCC U Great Modern Speeches: Same Ideology, Different Results
2025-12-04 13:00 - 14:30
4 Thursdays, 11/13, 11/20, 12/4, 12/11
Members: $25; non-members: $36 for the series
Why do some speeches make a difference and last forever while others backfire or are forgotten? This 4-session series explores the answers as we explore the content and context of powerful speeches by influential Americans including Abraham Lincoln, John F. Kennedy, Jr., Martin Luther King, Jr, Barry Goldwater, Ronald Reagan, Walter Mondale, Mario Cuomo, and more. At home readings provide background on the speakers and the particular challenges they faced when making their speeches, as well as what happened after the speeches to shape their legacy. Throughout, we’ll unlock the secrets of research, ghostwriting, and rhetorical technique that produced some of the most moving spoken words in our history.

Clergy Talk: Where in the World is Avraham Avinu (Abraham our Father)?
2025-12-05 09:30 - 10:30
FREE for members & non-members
Our forefather Abraham got around. “Going” was, in fact, what he was firstly commanded to do by G*d. Why? Where is he running off to? And who is he with? Come discover the (proposed) secret lives and loves of Avraham Avinu!
With Cantor Robin Joseph of Temple Beth Shalom.

92NY Live—Bourbon Barons: Noah Rothbaum and Rabbi David Ingber in Conversation on Jews on the Bourbon Trail
2025-12-05 14:00 - 15:00
FREE for members & non-members
Grab a bourbon cocktail (included!) and join acclaimed spirits expert and author Noah Rothbaum alongside Rabbi David Ingber to uncover the Jewish legacy within America’s whiskey story.
In his latest book, The Whiskey Bible, Rothbaum traces the global history of whiskey while shining light on a little-known chapter: the pivotal role of Jewish immigrants in bringing whiskey to America. From bootleggers and distillers to visionaries who built enduring brands, Jewish entrepreneurs have woven resilience, ingenuity, and identity into the very fabric of this iconic spirit.
Together with the Shapira family—leaders of one of America’s most storied, family-run distilleries—this conversation will explore the intertwined narratives of tradition, adaptation, and entrepreneurship that continue to shape both whiskey and Jewish-American identity.

Shabbat@Shames—Adult Shabbat Dinner
2025-12-05 17:45 - 19:30
Members: $36; non-members: $50
Gather with friends to fill your spirit and your belly. We will begin with unstructured time for mingling, holiday-related snacks, and a get-to-know-you exercise. Our salmon meal along with a vegetarian option from DeCicco and Sons will begin with Shabbat rituals guided by Rabbi Ron Symons, including discussion starters, blessings, songs, and time for engaging conversation.
Need a ride to or from? Please contact Rena DeLevie at rdelevie@shamesjcc.org by 5:00 pm on December 2.
Please register by 5:00 pm on December 2.

Tunes & Tinis: Piano Bar with Nina Zeitlin
2025-12-06 19:00 - 22:00
Members: $20; non-members: $25
Dust off your vocal chords—time to sing, lounge, sip, and nibble!
Grab your friends and your request list and get ready to sing with Nina, a Brooklyn-based award-winning singer, voice actor, songwriter, producer, and piano entertainer! Whether you’re singing along to an old favorite or brave enough to grab the mic for a solo performance, this will be a night you don’t want to miss!
*Each ticket includes your first drink (wine, beer, martini, or soft drinks!) and a spread of delicious light bites!

Pop-up: Ariane's Jewel Box from Ariane Braverman
2025-12-08 09:00 - 12:00
For the trendsetter in your life, explore this carefully curated collection of jewelry.

What Does It Really Mean to Love Your Neighbor?
2025-12-08 10:00 - 11:30
FREE for members; $10 for non-members
Every religion teaches some form of “Love your neighbor as yourself.” The first question we must answer is: What is love? The second is: Do we love ourselves? Only after answering those questions can we think about how to love our neighbors and how to love strangers. Join in for an interactive session unpacking the Golden Rule.
About the presenter: Barbara Symons graduated from the University of Michigan and was ordained by Hebrew Union College in 1994. She currently serves as the rabbi of Temple Beth-El of City Island and the Reform Temple of Putnam Valley, is author of Prophetic Voices: Renewing and Reimagining Haftarah (CCAR Press), and is proud to be the Rabbi Emerita of Temple David Temple David in Monroeville, Pennsylvania following her 18 year tenure.

Pop-Up: Fused-Glass Housewares from Abe Rosenthal
2025-12-09 08:00 - 14:00
Explore beautiful handmade fused-glass gifts, such as plates, bowls, coasters, hearts, and hanging vases.

Community Service Hour—Make Two Holiday Cards: Take One, Donate One
2025-12-10 16:45 - 17:45
FREE for members & non-members
Artist and community leader Lucia Aguais will guide us in creating collage holiday cards. We’ll go over simple collage techniques like tearing and layering paper, creating shapes, and composing our own designs, with plenty of room for play and personal expression. Donated cards will be shared with children from Flag Nation, Lucia’s family’s nonprofit that supports at-risk youth with education and sports training.

Oh What A Night! Hanukkah Party
2025-12-10 18:00 - 20:00
Members: $18; non-members: $25
We’re turning back the clock to the golden age of doo-wop at this year’s Verve Hanukkah celebration! The cast of Broadway’s “Jersey Boys” is coming to the J to bring you the iconic sounds of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons as well as other well-known hits from the era.
Before and after the performance, graze your way through our Latke Board by Kate Sonders Solomon, featuring crispy potato pancakes and a spread of decadent toppings—from classic sour cream and applesauce to smoked salmon, pickled vegetables, and more.
Adults of all ages are invited to get in the holiday mood! Don’t want to drive? Email Rena at rdelevie@shamesjcc.org to learn about our transportation options.
About the performers: Keith White, Nathan Scherich, Russell Fischer, and Rory Max Kaplan have collectively spent nearly 30 years on Broadway and national tours in such shows as “Jersey Boys,” “A Bronx Tale,” and “Beautiful, The Carole King Musical.”

Pop-Up: Specialty Foods and Accessories from Alexa Brandenberg
2025-12-11 09:00 - 12:00
For the foodie in your life, explore a variety of delicious goods, such as Koroneiki olive oil sourced from the seller’s family olive trees in Greece, homemade cocktail cherries, and espresso walnuts.

Common Ground: The Commercialization of Santa and Judah Maccabee—How Are We to Respond?
2025-12-11 12:00 - 13:00
FREE for members & non-members
As Santa floats into Herald Square at the end of the Thanksgiving Day parade, how do we put the Christ back in Christmas and the Maccabees back in Hanukkah?
With Rabbi Daniel Reiser, Temple Beth Shalom, Hastings on Hudson and Pastor Kristin Wuerffel, Dobbs Ferry Lutheran Church. Hosted by Rabbi Ron Symons and Rev. Gareth Evans.

JCC U Great Modern Speeches: The President as Consoler-in-Chief
2025-12-11 13:00 - 14:30

Group Outing: Private Tour of The Frick Collection and Lunch
2025-12-12 08:15 - 12:00
Members: $85; non-members: $100 (includes r/t transportation, tour, and lunch at the J)
Don’t miss out on this exclusive opportunity! Art enthusiasts are invited to the newly-renovated Frick Collection in NYC for a private tour at a greatly reduced rate. Arriving before the museum opens to the public for the day, our group will get an in-depth introduction to the history and holdings of the collection, where masterpieces by Bellini, Duccio, Fragonard, Gainsborough, Goya, Holbein, Ingres, Rembrandt, Turner, Van Dyck, Velázquez, Vermeer, Veronese, and more are displayed in the intimate setting of a late, Gilded Age mansion. Led by a professional museum educator, our group will visit the museum’s first and second floors and have opportunities to look closely at works of art.
Back at the J, we’ll gather over lunch and a glass of wine from the cafe (included in your ticket price!) to discuss our visit.
NOTE: Space is limited to 20 and no refunds will be given after Dec. 5—sign up early to reserve your spot!

Challah and Conversation: ”It’s a Miracle!—Give Me a Break”
2025-12-12 09:30 - 10:30
FREE for members & non-members
Rabbi Ron Symons will lead us in a conversation about the relationship between miracles, reality, coincidences, truth, alternative truths, and so much more than just a little oil lasting for eight days. This contemporary conversation will touch on Jewish and general themes in our society.

Dead Meat: A Grateful Dead Tribute Band
2025-12-12 19:30 - 22:00
Members: $30; non-members: $36
Jam out to this electrifying Grateful Dead tribute band.
Dead heads and friends: don’t miss this fan favorite, known for their moving harmonies and high-energy blocks of music. The band’s unique renditions of timeless classics make them a must see. Cash bar will be open; tickets get you one free drink (beer/wine/canned cocktail/soft drink).

Tech Angels
2025-12-14 10:00 - 12:00
Every other Sunday
Drop in—no registration required.
Having trouble with your iPhone, Android, tablet, or laptop? Struggle with email, texting, apps, Zoom, or technology in general? Bring your device and your questions to the J and savvy volunteers from Irvington High School will help you at no cost!

Kibbutz Life: Past, Present, and Personal Reflections
2025-12-15 10:00 - 11:30
FREE for members; $10 for non-members
The events of October 7th have brought renewed attention to life in kibbutz communities. This conversation explores kibbutz life from past to present, examining the role of Zionist ideals and worldviews in shaping daily life, values, and community structures. It also highlights the kibbutz’s enduring traditions, communal practices, and the legacy that continues to define life today.
About the presenter: Hila is a Senior Community Shlicha (emissary) for Westchester, NY and the Director of the Westchester Israeli Emissaries in Westchester. In this role, she works to strengthen the relationship between Israel and local Jewish communities, fostering meaningful connections through education, dialogue, and cultural engagement.
Hila has dedicated her career to building bridges between Jewish communities in Israel and abroad. She holds a master’s degree in Jewish-American and Israeli Relations and a Bachelor’s degree in Geography and Israel Studies, both from the University of Haifa. Hila and her family live in Kibbutz Ein Hashofet in Israel.

Latkes on The Hudson
2025-12-15 10:00 - 14:00
FREE, drop in when you can.
Chef Amy Pane and Rabbi Ron Symons can’t wait to wish you a Hanukkah full of light, potatoes, sour cream, and apple sauce. Chef Amy will prepare special toppings for our latkes and Rabbi Ron will share some innovative ways to celebrate Hanukkah

Hanukkah Craft Pop-Up
2025-12-15 15:00 - 17:00
Drop in, no registration
Brings your kids to celebrate the season with a creative, hands-on craft with Rabbi Ron and Jill Rosenblum!

Community Hanukkah Candle Lighting
2025-12-15 17:00 - 17:45
FREE for members & non-members
Let’s celebrate the festival of lights in community! Come light the menorah, eat latkes, and enjoy music and activities with your family and friends. Rabbi Ron Symons and Rabbi Mara Young from Woodlands Community Temple will help us to lead the festivities; you might even see some familiar faces from River Friends and J Sports Academy! We welcome all community members no matter your age nor faith background.

Cumbia for All: Music Workshop with Urbano NYC (Inclusive* Event)
2025-12-16 11:00 - 12:00
FREE for members & non-members
Ages 16+
Join Pablo and Anna Mayor of Folklore Urbano NYC for a fun and unique music experience! Participants will move to the beat and sing music inspired by the diverse traditions of Colombia, including the well known rhythm of “Cumbia!”
*Inclusive classes and events at the J are specifically designed and implemented to ensure individuals with or without disabilities can participate fully. The goal of these classes is to ensure all participants have the opportunity to foster community, learn new skills, and have fun!

Third Act Circle: A Peer Support Group
2025-12-16 12:00 - 13:00
FREE for members and non-members
Those experiencing the stage of life referred to as “the third act” are invited to come together to talk, laugh, share stories, and support one another through life’s ups and downs. Whether you’re navigating retirement, dealing with health changes, coping with loss, or just looking to connect with others in a similar life stage, this group offers a place where you can feel heard and understood. Facilitated by Rena, the focus is on encouragement and community.

Verve Book Club: “Take My Hand” by Dolen Perkin-Valez
2025-12-17 11:30 - 13:00
FREE for members & non-members
Inspired by true events, this powerful novel follows Civil Townsend, a young nurse in 1970s Alabama, whose new job at a family planning clinic leads her to uncover injustices that will change the course of her life—and others’—forever. It’s a moving story about courage, accountability, and the fight for dignity.

Latkes with a Twist: Cooking Class
2025-12-17 14:00 - 15:00
FREE for members & non-members
Chef Amy Pane will show us how to add a twist to our old school latke recipe assumptions through culinary demonstration and tasting. While the latkes are cooking, Rabbi Ron Symons will lead a discussion on the significance of this traditional food and the fallacy behind it.

JCC on Stage: Seussical the Musical (Monday Cast)
2025-12-17 17:00 - 17:30
Come see the students of the JCC on Stage show off their talents in Seussical the Musical!

JCC on Stage: Seussical the Musical (Tuesday Cast)
2025-12-18 17:00 - 17:30

Challah and Conversation: Light It Up!
2025-12-19 09:30 - 10:30
FREE for members & non-members
Have you ever wondered why so many milestones in our lives and on our calendar incorporate vast amounts of light? Rabbi Ron Symons will help us uncover the power of light in our spirituality, emotional well-being, communal celebrations, and so much more. There might even be some chocolate Hanukkah gelt to share.
