How to be a Mensch, by A. Monster—Read Aloud with Leslie Kimmelman
2022-11-19 10:30 - 11:30 (America/New_York)
Please note that this event is at the Mount Pleasant Public Library 350 Bedford Road in Pleasantville.
It may be hard for you to believe, but some people are afraid of monsters. While it’s true that monsters sometimes look scary, actually most of them are kind and helpful. Monsters can even be mensches! Come join a friendly monster guide as it demonstrates all the different ways of being a mensch, whether you have three heads–or just one. Then stay and practice to be a mensch yourself!
About the Author:
Leslie Kimmelman is the author of more than 50 books for children, including a large number with Jewish topics. Her books have won many national and state awards, and five of her books have been recognized by the Sydney Taylor committee, which presents annual awards for outstanding children’s books that authentically portray the Jewish experience. Leslie was a children’s book editor for decades and worked at Sesame Workshop for almost 25 years. She lives in Westchester County. Visit her at lesliekimmelman.com.

4 Walls Exhibit & Reception
2022-11-20 14:00 - 16:00
4 Walls Exhibit & Reception
Ongoing Exhibit, Reception Sun, Nov. 20 from 2-4 PM
Come and see our first juried exhibition, 4 Walls, in our community lounge, featuring local artists Donna Grande, Yona Gonen, Chloe Sikirica and Will Richman. Their work in painting and collage ranges from realistic to abstract, and everywhere in between. Join us for an artist reception Sun, Nov. 20 from 2-4 PM. Coffee and cake will be served.

From Ethiopia to Israel (at Mimi's Coffee House in Mt. Kisco)
2022-11-20 15:00 - 16:00
From Ethiopia to Israel:
Come learn about the Jewish Ethiopian Community, Beta Israel, and the Jewish Holiday of Sigd
Sigd is an Ethiopian Jewish Holiday that celebrates the evacuation of Ethiopian Jews in the midst of conflict and famine to Israel. Join us for a special conversation with Haftam, an Ethiopian Jew who herself experienced the crisis in Ethiopia and evacuation to Israel, as she shares reflections on her own experience and the cultural traditions that comprise this commemorative holiday. Sample Ethiopian coffee from Mimi’s and Haftam’s homemade traditional Ethiopian snack, kitta.
Location:
Mimi’s Coffee House
37 South Moger Avenue
Mount Kisco, NY 10549

World Folklore and Folktales
2022-11-21 10:00 - 11:30
World Folklore and Folktales
Join us for a presentation about all the different folklore and folktales from around the world!

About the presenter:
Actor/entertainer and acclaimed storyteller Richard Mann has performed at the New Jersey Storytelling Festival and was featured at the Morris World Storytelling Festival. His programs embrace many cultures and languages. He also has performed his Irish Balladeers show at the JFK Presidential Library in Boston. Today he will present “World Folktales” and will regale you with stories and folklore from around the world and enchant your imagination!

Live Performance and Lecture from Yiddish Musical Theater
2022-11-28 10:00 - 11:30
Join us for a live performance that takes you on a journey through the music and history of a bygone era but one whose effects are still felt today. Native Yiddish speaker, Dr. Diane Cypkin, will sing and discuss the wonderful songs made famous by legends like Molly Picon and Menasha Skulnik, while discussing the great Yiddish songwriters and anecdotes from the Yiddish stage.

Senior Social Club: Discussion- What's Your Hobby?
2022-11-30 11:30 - 13:30
What’s your hobby? Are you a photographer? Writer? Dabbler? We’ll get to know each other through you hobbies and interests. Bring samples of your work!

Challenging Times, Ageless Insights: Intersectionality and Jewish Diversity with Rabbi Mara Young
2022-12-02 10:00 - 11:30
Challenging Times, Ageless Insights: Intersectionality and Jewish Diversity with Rabbi Mara Young
FREE for members and non-members
Rabbi Young from Woodlands Community Temple will discuss the concept of intersectionality and what it means for how we approach racism, misogyny, and antisemitism, both within and outside of the Jewish community.
“Challenging Times, Ageless Insights” offers participants the opportunity to engage with clergy in exploring contemporary issues through a Jewish lens. These discussions will provide insights, debate, and if we are successful, even more questions.

R&B/Soul Line Dancing with the Fun Bunch: FREE Intro Class
2022-12-02 12:00 - 13:00
New to line dancing? This class is for you! Join us for a free introductory class at the start of our new 8-week series.
Line dance is a form of dance in which memory and execution come together. Dancers learn basic steps, rhythms and routines choreographed to music, thereby improving memory and balance
Steve “Fun Bunch” Dillard breaks down easy line dances that allow everyone to learn at a comfortable pace. Come for great music and a great time!

Winter Immunity Boost: Elderberry Bonanza
2022-12-04 15:30 - 17:00
Winter Immunity Boost: Elderberry Bonanza
Join us with your child (4+) to make elderberry syrup and explore fun ways to enhance your culinary creations with this special herb to prevent illness and support health this winter.
Get your body prepared for winter in this class! Instructors Rachel Sokolowoski and Stephanie Wright will teach you how to integrate Ayurvedic and herbalist practices into your daily life. We will taste, eat, and create recipes using elderberries. We’ll teach you how to use this plant during the winter as an herbal preventative and support for overall health. In addition, we will teach you fun ways to enhance your culinary creations with elderberry including Syrup, Teas and Spritzers.
Bring your own mason jars! Participants will need 1 24 oz jar for this class. Cost of the workshops covers the rest of the materials for 1 child and 1 adult.

Music of The Great Migration
2022-12-05 10:00 - 11:30
In one of the greatest mass migrations in history, between 1910 and 1970 an estimated six million American blacks left the rural South for the industrial cities of the North . Their music came with them and was transformed and vitalized by the sounds and energy of the big cities. In this lecture we will listen to and discuss some of the songs that reflected the dreams, romance, and homesickness felt by those who boarded the trains for new places and new lives that would change them and music forever.

Fused Glass Pop-Up with Abe Rosenthal
2022-12-06 09:00 - 13:00
Fused Glass Pop-Up with Abe Rosenthal
Back by popular demand, JCC member Abe Rosenthal has been working with fused glass since he retired ten years ago, and will be setting up a pop-up shop selling a beautiful selection of homemade objects in our lobby! From large plates to trinket dishes, necklaces and paperweights, come see and purchase new items to treat yourself or buy a gift for a special someone.
Abe has promised us he is hard at work making new items, and will generously be donating a portion of sales to the J.

Project Genesis: An Interfaith Conversation Between Two Clergy
2022-12-06 11:30 - 12:30
Project Genesis: An Interfaith Conversation Between Two Clergy

The same story can have multiple meanings. The books of the Old Testament in particular are ripe with symbol, metaphor, and character, providing the reader with the opportunity to unpack and analyze the meanings. In Project Genesis, we will discuss different interpretations of some of the beloved stories we learned as children and now revisit as adults. Two clergy friends with insight from different faiths will serve as your guides: Reverend Gareth Evans of St. Barnabas Episcopal Church and Rabbi Jay M. Stein of Greenburgh Hebrew Center.

Work for Good, Good for Work: A Broad River Gathering
2022-12-06 18:30 - 20:00
Work for Good, Good for Work: A Broad River Gathering
Learn about the joys and benefits of community service in our work and our lives.
The positive impact on the community of our volunteer service work is usually very clear. For the volunteer, there are many sometimes unexpected benefits from a career and professional experience as well. Tonight’s panelists have all been engaged in community work for many years in a variety of capacities. They will be talking about how their community service experiences have not just enriched their lives and the lives of others but also benefited their businesses and careers. We invite you to join us in the conversation – bring your questions and share your experiences.
This event is facilitated by Laurie Hirsch Schulz with guests Elissa Hecker and Joanne Taylor.

Social Senior Club: Game Day
2022-07-13 11:30 - 13:30
Card games, scrabble, Mexican train dominoes, etc. If 4 people wish, we can also have Mah Jong.

Mindfulness Meditation Workshop with The Meditation Lab
2022-12-08 09:15 - 10:15
Mindfulness Meditation Workshop with The Meditation Lab
This 45-minute workshop is designed to teach you about the principles of mindfulness and how you can apply them to increase your focus and productivity, make clearer decisions, improve communication and reduce stress. In addition to these benefits, you will gain an understanding of the practical applications of mindfulness and how it further enhances your overall health and well-being.
Mindfulness meditation is a powerful tool that can help you optimize the performance of your mind by raising your
awareness. During this workshop, you will have the opportunity to move towards stillness by exploring simple stretches to warm your body and settle your mind. From there, you will be led through some mindful breathing exercises and a guided relaxation and mindfulness meditation.
Free for members, $10 for nonmembers.

About the Meditation Lab
The Meditation Lab was founded in 2016 by longtime yoga and meditation teacher Jennifer Monness. Inspired by the impact practicing meditation had on her own ability to navigate the stress of working and raising a family, Jennifer began leading corporate workshops, sharing the benefits of a regular meditation practice along with simple ways to integrate the practice into one’s life.

Train To Be A Certified Lifeguard!
2022-12-09
Lifeguarding is the perfect job for anyone who loves to swim—high school students, college students, part-time workers who enjoy the flexibility and a work/life balance, and even retirees!
Become a certified lifeguard* by taking our American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification course. This job is perfect for high school students, college students, part-time workers who enjoy the flexibility and a work/life balance, and even retirees! If you love to swim, community, and want to work in a welcoming and exciting atmosphere, this is the perfect opportunity!

Creative Movement Workshop, Ages 3-5
2022-12-11 15:00 - 15:45
Creative Movement Workshop, Ages 3-5
Join us for an introduction to our creative movement class with Rivertown Dance Academy. This one-time workshop will introduce children to movement and basic classical dance in a creative way. They will also get a chance to meet our creative movement teacher, Luiza Karnas.

Jazz Forum Trip
2022-12-11 16:00 - 18:00
Jazz Forum Trip
Join your JCC friends for world-class jazz at Tarrytown’s beloved music venue Jazz Forum. You’ll listen to the incredible sounds of Sheila Jordan, a singer known for her sultry-elastic voice, innovative pitch changes, and flourishes.
Your ticket includes a 2-course meal and glass of wine, beer, or soft drink. Stay as long as you wish – your admission grants you access to the second set as well, which begins at 6 PM.
If you want to come but need a ride, we’re happy to arrange a carpool. Email info@shamesjcc.org and we’ll get you set up.

Yoga: A Reflective Practice in Honor of Hanukkah at the Mt Kisco Library
2022-12-12 10:00 - 11:00
Yoga: A Reflective Practice in Honor of Hanukkah at the Mt Kisco Library
Hanukkah is a time where we can reflect upon the light of the world and within ourselves. Join Emily Herzfeld for a yoga class for all levels that explores the messages of Hanukkah through movement and meditation. This class will stretch, strengthen, and soothe the body, mind, and soul, while re-jew-venating with tools and lessons that can be practiced beyond the class. Please dress comfortably and bring your own yoga mat.

Film Screening followed by Q&A with Director Jeremy Newberger: Heading Home
2022-12-12 10:00 - 12:00
Heading Home: The Tale of Team Israel.

Join us to watch this riveting David-and-Goliath story of Israel’s national baseball team as it competes for the first time in the World Baseball Classic.
After years of crushing defeats, Israel finally ranks among the world’s best in 2017. Its roster includes many Jewish-American major leaguers, most with a tenuous relationship to Judaism, barely any ever having set foot in Israel. Their odyssey takes them from the Holy Land where they are hailed as modern-day Maccabees to the tournament in South Korea where they must debunk their reputations as has-beens and wannabes. The connection to Israel that the players forge pushes them to unexpected heights as they represent the country on the world stage.
The screening will be followed by a Q&A discussion with the director. Watch the trailer here.

American Girl Doll Pop-Up
2022-12-12 12:00 - 17:00
American Girl Doll Pop-Up
Looking to start your holiday shopping? We have a great opportunities that support our members, the J, and an organization with a wonderful mission.
Girl AGain will be at the J selling refurbished American Girl Dolls and accessories made by women from Yes She Can Inc., a nonprofit that helps young women with autism develop vocational skills. Come support them and purchase your loved ones various American Girl Doll items!

Senior Social Club: Favorite Travels in the US
2022-12-14 11:30 - 13:30
Share your standout travel experiences in the United States. I have visited or want to visit.

Out to Lunch with the JCC: Hunan Village II in Hartsdale, NY
2022-12-15 12:30 - 14:00
Out to Lunch with the JCC: Hunan Village II in Hartsdale, NY
While some folks celebrate Christmas with a traditional feast, others of us head straight to the closest Chinese restaurant. Join us for our next lunch outing to Hunan Village II in Hartsdale where you’ll dine on a feast that includes 2 appetizers, your choice of entrée, dessert, and cold beverage. Meals can be spiced to taste and include options for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Bring your appetite!
The cost is $30 per person, tax and gratuity included. Bring a friend or come make new ones! Advance registration required.
NOTE ON TRANSPORTATION: This event will be taking place at Hunan Village II, 222 E. Hartsdale Ave. in Hartsdale, NY 10530. If you need a ride to the restaurant from the JCC or have room in your car for others, please email cjacobs@shamesjcc.org when you register.

Step One Consulting Workshops: From Diagnosis to Solutions
2022-12-15 18:30 - 20:00
Attorney Lauren Weinberg will lead a series of workshops designed to help individuals and families navigate the complexities of supportive services and mental health systems for children and adults with disabilities or functional limitations.
From Diagnosis to Solutions
Your child has received a disability diagnosis. How can you set them up for success and independence? This workshop will provide an overview of OPWDD (Office of People with Developmental Disabilities), eligibility requirements and steps to access this system, and the array of benefits it provides for children and adults.

Women's Circle: Winter Solstice Yoga and Acupuncture
2022-12-15 19:00 - 20:30
Welcome the winter solstice with an evening of embodied movement and acupuncture. We will be tuning into our winter energy: how it gets sent down to root, germinate, and rest. Tori Cronk, yoga instructor and Chryssa Tsakiris, acupuncturist will guide you through a gentle yoga flow and into a restorative practice. We’ll be adding harmonious, stress-relieving ear acupuncture seeds, with two optional calm-inducing acupuncture points on the head. No prior yoga experience is required. This offering is intended for all levels and all bodies, including the pregnant body.
Tori lives in Tarrytown and has been teaching yoga and facilitating women’s circles for the past 7 years. Tori combines her background in mental health and yoga and meditation that allows her to facilitate an experience where people feel seen and heard.
Chryssa is the owner and lead acupuncturist at Well Collab in Sleepy Hollow with a dedication to adolescent health, fertility, and women’s health. She has a special interest in anti-patriarchy and intersectional feminist health work.

Hanukkah Celebration & Hastings Flea
2022-12-18 10:00 - 14:00
Join us on December 18 for a day at the J full of community events and celebration of the festival of lights.
We are thrilled to be hosting the Hastings Flea from 10am-2pm, so come by to get special, unique holiday gifts for your loved ones. Stay for our community menorah lighting at 2pm!
For young children, we have a host of activities to keep them entertained. The WonderSpark Puppets will be bringing us a special show, The Lost Latkes, that will use story and songs to delight children while promoting themes including persistence and conflict resolution. Our friends from the Early Childhood Center, River Friends Day Camp, and Camp Twelve Trails will lead arts and crafts projects, and we’ll have Hanukkah sweet treats for all!
Register for the puppet show

Protect Yourself Online with Roberta Goodman
2022-12-19 10:00 - 11:30
Even the savviest of consumers can still be compromised by online scams. Attorneys from the Pace Women’s Justice Center will highlight current tech scams to help you protect yourself online, especially during the busy holiday season. You’ll come away with helpful tools to safely use the internet while protecting your online identity.

Second Night Hanukkah Party for Adults
2022-12-19 18:00 - 20:00
Hanukkah isn’t just for kids! Drop by the Mind Body Studio between 6-8 PM for crispy latkes and other holiday nosh while we celebrate and toast the second night of Hanukkah together.
BYO Hanukkah menorah for a community lighting. To give back, please consider bringing a small can of tomato soup and /or tuna fish for the food pantry boxes we will be assembling on our MLK Day of Service!.
This event is free for Shames JCC members and $12 for non-members. Pre-registration required.
See you there!

Sibspace Lecture Series: Disability + Sexuality (Virtual)
2022-12-23 19:00 - 20:15 | Virtual
Sibspace Lecture Series: Disability + Sexuality
Hear from experts Michelle Ballan and Christine Barker on the topic of Disability and Sexuality. Presentation will include information on communicating about sexuality; future planning; supported decision-making and guardianship, as it applies to sexuality; assessments for sexuality; and the perspective of a self-advocate. We are looking forward to hosting this unique opportunity for information, support, and dialogue surrounding how adult siblings can best support and advocate for their brothers and sisters.

Discussion: Looking on The Bright Side
2023-01-04 11:30 - 13:30
What were some of the positive events in your life in 2022?

It can be easy to focus on the negative when looking at the state of the world these days. But today we’re going to talk about the good stuff. Join us for a discussion about positive experiences you had in 2022. Did you celebrate a life cycle event with your family? Win Wordle in one guess? Anything goes!
