"Among Neighbors" Film Screening (Special Event Release Version)
2026-05-16 15:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York)
In a town where history has been silenced, an eyewitness to murder speaks out in search of the boy she loved.
Combining magical realism with traditional documentary techniques, Among Neighbors examines the mystery of a small, rural town in Poland where people of two different faiths lived side by side for centuries — until the killing began. The film reveals both love and betrayal as it zeroes in on a crime committed among neighbors: the murder of Holocaust survivors, six months after the end of World War II. The chilling facts revealed in this documentary have led the office of Poland’s nationalist president to call for a ban on the film.
The Special Event Release includes 25 minutes of additional content in the form of a brief introduction by its award-winning filmmaker Yoav Potash, and an in-depth post-film Q&A compilation filmed live at sold-out screenings that reveals the fascinating making-of stories––as well as the ongoing controversy––behind this critically-acclaimed film.
Watch the trailer:

Tech Angels
2026-05-17 10:00 - 12:00, 2026-05-31 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!

Reproductive Choice in NY State
2026-05-18 10:00 - 11:30
In 2022, after 49 years, Roe v. Wade was overturned. The state of reproductive health care in the U.S. has changed critically and fundamentally in a few short years. Abortion is now banned or restricted in 19 states, and is inaccessible in most of the other 31; access to contraceptives is increasingly challenged. Choice Matters, the oldest ongoing pro-choice organization in the nation, has been educating, motivating, and activating individuals for over 53 years. Catherine Lederer-Plaskett, its president and chair, will describe the current national and local landscape with regards to abortion access and explain the work of Choice Matters in New York State and Westchester County.
About the Presenter: Catherine Lederer-Plaskett is an internationally-recognized advocate for women’s reproductive rights. As its President and Chair for two decades, Catherine has revitalized the growth of WCLA – Choice Matters, the oldest ongoing pro-choice advocacy organization in the country. Catherine is also a founding member and former co-chair of the New York State Alliance for Women’s Health which helped draft the Reproductive Health Act that became law in 2019. She was instrumental in the drafting and passage of Westchester’s 2022 Safe Clinic Access legislation – which remains the only one of its kind nationally that protects both the inside and outside of reproductive healthcare facilities. In 2024, Catherine played a pivotal role in the passage of NYS Constitutional Amendment “Prop One”.

Rethinking Retirement: Designing Your Next Chapter
2026-05-18 18:30 - 20:30
Retirement often raises bigger questions than expected: Who am I now? What do I want my days to look like? What still matters?
This interactive workshop is designed for adults who are approaching retirement or are newly retired and want space to think more intentionally about what comes next. Through guided reflection, structured exercises, and small-group conversation, you’ll explore how identity, purpose, and daily life are shifting—and how you want to shape this next phase.
Participants will leave with:

Greater clarity on what retirement means for them personally
Insight into how they want to spend their time and energy
Perspective from others navigating similar transitions
One or two practical next steps to explore

This is a facilitated, highly interactive experience—no preparation needed!
About the Facilitators:
Dr. Andi Simon is a corporate anthropologist, speaker, and author who helps people and organizations navigate change. Her work now focuses on helping individuals rethink retirement as a life transition, drawing on her book Rethink Retirement and decades of experience leading workshops globally.
Laurie Hirsch Schulz is a transition coach and founder of LHS Coaching who works with experienced professionals navigating career and life inflection points. She helps clients clarify their values, priorities, and direction so they can move forward with intention and confidence.

Third Act Circle: A Peer Support Group
2026-05-19 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.

DIY Program Planning Meeting
2026-05-20 11:00 - 12:30
Free for members and non-members
Join us for an interactive brainstorming session where participants can share ideas, collaborate with peers, and help shape future programs and events at the Shames JCC. This is an opportunity for voices to be heard, creativity to shine, and community members to take an active role in building programs that reflect their interests and passions.
Participants should be comfortable engaging in a group discussion setting. Pizza lunch will be provided.

Verve Book Club: “Hello? Who is This? Margaret?” by Dani Alpert
2026-05-20 11:30 - 13:00
FREE for members & non-members
Written by local author Dani Alpert, this warm and witty novel explores how an unexpected connection can open the door to friendship and renewed purpose. Sparked by a chance phone call, the story gently examines loneliness, courage, and the power of reaching out at any stage of life. With humor and heart, it celebrates the small moments that bring people together.

Book Club: What We Can Know by Ian McEwan
2026-05-21 19:00 - 20:15
FREE for members and non-members
From the Booker Prize–winning, bestselling author Ian McEwan, What We Can Know is a fictional tour de force. This instant New York Times bestseller is a literary detective story and love story that reclaims the present from our sense of looming catastrophe and imagines a future world where all is not quite lost.
Reserve Spot

Gel Plate Printing Workshop
2026-05-22 11:00 - 13:00
$25 members, $30 non-members
Discover the magic of gel plate printmaking with artist John Rosis. A gel plate is a flexible and reusable surface that produces unique, hand-pressed mono-prints. Layer stencils, leaves, string, grasses, and more to explore bold abstract designs or representational imagery; the possibilities are endless. No experience needed, and all materials included.

J Sports Academy Memorial Day Weekend Clinics
2026-05-23 09:00 - 12:30
Clinics run 9am-12:30pm
Join us for a great day of tennis, basketball, and soccer with the J Sports Academy coaching staff. Athletes in 2-8th grade will build skills and compete in a fun, supportive environment. Parents can meet our camp team, receive a tour of camp, and experience the energy of J Sports Academy ahead of the summer

Tennis, 2nd-8th Grade: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Soccer, 2nd–5th Grade: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Basketball, 2nd–5th Grade: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Soccer, 6th–8th Grade: 11:30 PM – 12:30 PM
Basketball, 6th–8th Grade: 11:30 PM – 12:30 PM

Community Service Hour
2026-05-27 11:30 - 12:30
Table Settings for Seniors at the Food Pantry

Join us in helping our neighbors dine with dignity. Together, we’ll wrap and package table settings—complete with placemats, napkins, and flowers—for senior clients of the Tarrytown Sleepy Hollow Community Food Pantry.
This is a continuation of a recent Community Service Hour as we work toward our original goal—every bit of help makes a difference. All are welcome!

Shames JCC Gala
2026-05-28 19:00 - 22:00
Join us for a special evening to celebrate the Harold & Elaine Shames JCC on the Hudson
Honoring
Early Childhood Center Leaders Ann Zarider and Ronnie Brockman
New this Year
Open seating, lounge-style format
Passed fare & food stations all evening
Special tribute program honoring Ann and Ronnie
Silent auction + live music finale with The Uptown Boys (Billy Joel cover band)
*Can’t make the gala? You can still be part of Ann and Ronnie’s tribute book; click here for more information.
Tickets and Sponsorship Information

Challah and Conversation: Military and Community Service
2026-05-29 09:30 - 10:30
Military and Community Service: What is The Value Added?

Reflecting on contemporary society norms of rampant independence, Rabbi Ron Symons will guide us in a Memorial Day inspired conversation about the value added when communities expect their citizens of all ages to give back to the community.

Container Gardening and Cooking Workshop
2026-05-29 12:00 - 14:00
$25 for members; $32 for non-members
Planting an herb pot is a wonderful way to satiate any green thumb! Come join culinary specialist Amy Pane and teaching artist Renee Shamosh as they demonstrate planting a summer herb garden pot. They will then teach the class how to make homemade basil pesto, which the class will all enjoy together over pasta, celebrating a delicious way to make seasonal meals for the upcoming summer!

Family Field Day
2026-05-31 09:00 - 11:30
Calling all families: the JCC’s Family Field Day is on! Coach D from Backyard PE will keep kids and parents moving and make sure everyone has a blast with sports and rec games and relay races. Each activity is designed to be accessible for little ones while keeping older kids engaged and challenged. We’ll also enjoy snacks, crafts, and classic picnic fun. Don’t forget to wear sneakers for all the running and playing and feel free to bring a blanket for picnicking. Rain or shine; in case of severe weather, we will move indoors.
Suggested donation $10 per family.
Recommended for families with children 10 and under

Before the Ballot: Insight Into Israeli Politics and Society
2026-06-01 10:00 - 11:30
With elections in Israel coming up in October 2026, come gain insight into the complexities shaping Israel’s 2026 elections, The conversation will explore how Israel’s electoral system works and the key issues at stake, as well as how these issues reflect broader dynamics and trends within Israeli society and its diverse voter groups. The session aims to make a complex topic accessible, relevant, and thought-provoking.
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.

Hot Topics
2026-06-03 11:30 - 13:00
FREE for members & non-members
Discuss the month’s social and political issues with your fellow news enthusiasts. With timely and changing international, national, and local issues from the news arenas of government, arts, sports, science, and religion, we welcome all participants to voice their ideas. All points of view are welcome in this lively, thought-provoking, and civil discussion. Feel free to bring your lunch and/or a friend!

92NY Presents: Jill Biden in Conversation with Whoopi Goldberg: View from the East Wing
2026-06-03 13:30 - 14:45
FREE for members and non-members
NOTE: this event will be live-streamed with an-person discussion after
Join us for a candid conversation with former First Lady Jill Biden about her life in the White House and her new memoir, “View from the East Wing.”
A tireless advocate for women’s health initiatives, military families, cancer prevention, and education, Dr. Biden also made history as the only First Lady to hold a career outside the East Wing as a community college professor. Now, in her new memoir, she reveals her experience of these deeply consequential four years for the first time — before, during, and after the unexpected ending to her husband’s bid for re-election, setting the record straight and sharing her story in her own words.
In her first live NYC interview, Biden tells her story — the unprecedented pressures of balancing the duties of the First Lady with her role in her family, behind the scenes stories from Camp David and Air Force One, how the Biden presidency changed the nation, what she saw leading up to President Biden’s decision to drop out of the 2024 election, her unwavering faith in democracy and the American experiment, and much more

Caregiver Conversation Circle
2026-06-04 12:00 - 13:15
Do you care for a family member with chronic illness or special needs? Join our conversation circle to connect with others in a similar situation. Whether you are responsible for a child with special needs, a spouse with cognitive or physical decline, or any other situation that fits, we welcome your participation. The group will be facilitated by longtime social worker, Joanne Reed. Coffee and tea will be served.

Pages of Valor: A WWII Book Club
2026-06-04 14:00 - 15:00
FREE for members and non-members
Are you a World War II buff? Bring your thoughts, questions, and curiosity while we explore these extraordinary stories together in our new peer-led book club! Each month, a different member will choose the book (under 400 pages), sparking fresh perspectives and lively discussions.
Our inaugural read is Escape from the Deep by Alex Kershaw, the adrenaline-fueled tale of nine men who battled the Japanese from America’s deadliest submarine, survived its sinking, and endured months of brutal captivity. JCC member Bob Bartels will lead the discussion.

Challah and Conversation: Separation of Church and State
2026-06-05 09:30 - 10:30
The founders of the USA understood how important it was and would be for there to be no state-sanctioned religion and free access to religious rituals of choice for all. Living in 21st century America, this bedrock principle seems to be of a bygone era. We will unpack the founder’s thinking and the current state of affairs, and consider how Jewish wisdom might help us understand the time we live in.

Summer Luau-Inspired Celebration
2026-06-05 11:00 - 12:30
Free for members and non-members
Join us for our summer kick-off party! Enjoy traditional Luau-inspired tropical vibes, great music, yard games, and high-energy fun featuring DJ Mackie, along with special guest appearances from our talented DJ class participants.

You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown
2026-06-05 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-06-06 14:00 - 16:00
Friday June 5, 7:00 pm
Saturday June 6, 2:00 pm
Good Company Performing Arts Center proudly presents You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown, the beloved musical based on Charles M. Schulz’s Peanuts characters. With charm, humor, and iconic characters, the show celebrates friendship, imagination, and the everyday triumphs and dilemmas of childhood. Featuring a talented cast and creative team from across the Rivertowns and beyond, this joyful production is perfect for audiences of all ages.
You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown
Based on The Comic Strip “Peanuts” by
Charles M. Schulz
Book, Music and Lyrics by
Clark Gesner
Additional Dialogue by Michael Mayer
Additional Music and Lyrics by Andrew Lippa
“You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Tams-Witmark LLC.

POSTPONED—Navigating Global Challenges Across the Aisle: A Discussion with Congressmen Latimer and Lawler
2026-06-07 15:00 - 17:00
Congress faces unprecedented challenges—from navigating complex alliances to responding to emerging threats. Political leaders are negotiating U.S. involvement in global affairs from diverse perspectives. Come hear an in-depth conversation with Congressmen George Latimer (Democrat, NY District 16) and Lawler (Republican, NY District 17) as they share their perspectives on the state of U.S. foreign policy, how Congress is addressing the international landscape, and their views on the best way forward on issues including international trade and the economy, the wars in Iran and Ukraine, relations with China, and more.

Downsizing Done Right
2026-06-08 10:00 - 11:30
The downsizing process is not just logistically daunting; it can also be emotionally draining. Join organizer and home advisor Emily Baldwin for a thoughtful look at what a well-planned downsizing process might entail. Whether you are a retiree, newly divorced or widowed, or simply want to help a friend, you’ll learn how a mindful approach to the objects of one’s life can strengthen intergenerational bonds. Decluttering need not be a source of conflict – it can be a shared project that empowers everyone in the family.
About the presenter
Emily Baldwin is the owner-operator of The Move MBA, a home and move management firm in Westchester. She has a bachelor’s in Human and Organizational Development, with an emphasis on Leadership and Organizational Effectiveness from Vanderbilt University and a Masters in Business Administration from Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business. Her career spans investment banking, brand management, and startup tech companies, always focusing on the opportunity to take a step back to identify key themes of success, capability, and professional joy. She lives in Rye, New York.

Israel Film Festival: “Love, Statistically Speaking” screening and director talkback
2026-06-10 11:00 - 13:00
90 minute run time + Q&A
$5 for members; $10 for non-members
In this charming, feel-good comedy from acclaimed Israeli director Amichai Greenberg (The Testament, MJFF 18), 80-year-old actuary Reuben is a man who has always lived by the numbers. But when he unexpectedly loses both his beloved wife and her life insurance money at the local swimming pool, his carefully calculated world is thrown into chaos.
Forced into an unlikely alliance with his free-spirited granddaughter, Reuben embarks on a hilariously bumbling investigation among the pool’s quirky, unforgettable regulars. Along the way, the pair discovers that life–and love–are full of surprises that no spreadsheet or probability chart can ever predict.
Heartfelt, witty, and brimming with warmth, the film is a story about family, unexpected connections, and the joy of embracing life’s unpredictable moments. It’s a comedy that proves even the most methodical among us can’t calculate the magic of human relationships.
See the full festival line-up across the NY area.

Common Ground: America at 250… And Still Hoping!
2026-06-11 13:00 - 14:00
After a year of inviting spiritual leaders to help us connect our American civil holidays with the ongoing themes of spirituality, we have invited them to share with us their 5-line prayers for hope for America at this semiquincentennial. Their words might just inspire us to find that hope. Rabbi Ron Symons and Rev. Gareth Evans are pleased to guide this conversation.

Challah and Conversation: She’s A Grand Ole Flag
2026-06-12 09:30 - 10:30
In preparation for Flag Day (June 14), we will unpack the differences and similarities between nationalism and patriotism as they have been experienced in the past 250 years of America. Our conversation will provide each of us with insights about our current circumstance as Jewish wisdom will inform our perspectives.
