CREATIVE CREATIVE CONNECTIONS
ARTSPACE • CLUBS • COMMUNITY THEATRE • CRAFTS • CULTURE • GAMES
JEWISH LIFE • LITERARY ARTS • MOVIES • TRIPS • VERVE
JODI & ROBERT ROSENTHAL
AUTHOR BREAKFAST + BOOK SIGNING SERIES
Hear from bestselling authors as they discuss their latest novel, answer your questions, and sign your book! Programs also available via livestream.
Advance registration required at sjjcc.org/authorbreakfast PRICING
COMPLETE SERIES OF 5:
$200 members
$225 nonmembers
3 FALL PROGRAMS:
$150 members
$165 nonmembers
Individual Program: $65 members/nonmembers
2 SPRING PROGRAMS:
$110 members
$120 nonmembers
Please note that refunds will not be issued for any missed programs
THE ART SPY BY MICHELLE YOUNG
This riveting untold story shares how one woman infiltrated the Nazi leadership in Paris during World War II to save the world’s most treasured masterpieces.
Thursday, October 16, 10:30am
SIX DAYS IN BOMBAY BY ALKA JOSHI
The newest novel from this New York Times bestselling author of The Henna Artist takes readers on a journey from Bombay to across Europe to uncover the truth behind a famous painter’s mysterious death.
Thursday, November 13, 10:30am
SUCH GOOD PEOPLE BY AMY BLUMENFELD
Blumenfeld, a Roslyn resident, weaves the past and present together in this heartfelt novel, while also examining the bonds of family and friendship.
Thursday, December 4, 10:30am
FAGIN THE THIEF BY ALLISON EPSTEIN
A reimagining of the world created by Charles Dickens, seen through the eyes of Jacob Fagin—Victorian literature’s notorious villain.
Thursday, March 26, 10:30am
TYPEWRITER BEACH BY MEG WAITE CLAYTON
An unforgettable historical novel told across dual timelines, centered on the unlikely friendship between a screenwriter and a young actress hoping to be Alfred Hitchcock’s next star.
Thursday, May 7, 10:30am
Brought to you by our Edward & Bernice Wenger Center for the Arts—Literary Arts Programs supported by Jewish Book Council
IRENE & RONALD COHEN SPOTLIGHT SPEAKER SERIES
Today’s most fascinating novelists speak on their most recent works. Advance registration required at sjjcc.org/spotlightspeaker
THE SWORD OF FREEDOM BY YOSSI COHEN, FORMER DIRECTOR OF THE MOSSAD MODERATED BY FORMER CONGRESSMAN STEVE ISRAEL
Yossi Cohen, who led the Mossad from 2016 to 2021, offers a revealing look into Israel’s defense strategy in his new book, The Sword of Freedom. In a discussion with Steve Israel, Cohen explores Israel’s resilience amid ongoing conflict and his pivotal role in shaping the nation’s modern security approach.
Tuesday, September 16, 6:30-8:30pm
$50 per person
$75 per couple
Price includes one copy of the book
Brought to you by our Edward & Bernice Wenger Center for the Arts—Literary Arts
LINDA & GERALD MARSDEN PARTNERS WITH THE COMMUNITY PROGRAMS
Our popular book events go beyond the walls of SJJCC to our partners’ locations!
Advance registration required at sjjcc.org/partnerswiththecommunity
ONE OF THEM BY KITTY ZELDIS
A powerful and moving story of secrets, friendship, and betrayal that follows two young women at Vassar College in the years after World War II.
At Temple Sinai 425 Roslyn Road, Roslyn Heights Tuesday, October 21, 11am
PARIS UNDERCOVER BY MATTHEW GOODMAN
A gripping account of two women in Nazi-occupied Paris who created a daring escape line to rescue dozens of Allied servicemen.
At Melville Jewish Center 2600 New York Avenue, Melville Tuesday, April 28, 7:30pm
Brought to you by our Edward & Bernice Wenger Center for the Arts—Literary Arts Programs supported by Jewish Book Council
JODI & ROBERT ROSENTHAL IN CONVERSATION WITH...
Engaging discussions with today’s bestselling authors! Advance registration required at sjjcc.org/inconversation
WHEN WOMEN GET SICK BY REBECCA BLOOM
Bloom, originally from Great Neck, gives women the tools to make informed decisions in all aspects of their healthcare journey.
Tuesday, October 14, 10am
Free for NMCWC participants / $10 members / $15 nonmembers
Presented in collaboration with our Nancy Marx Cancer Wellness Center
WHAT YOUR BODY KNOWS ABOUT HAPPINESS BY JANICE KAPLAN
Happiness isn’t just a state of mind; it’s also a state of body! Through scientific research and tips from experts, Kaplan shares strategies to understand your body in a whole new way.
Wednesday, December 3, 7pm
$18 members / $36 nonmembers
Presented in collaboration with our Gayle Berg Center for Resilience
TALES OF JEWISH JOY WITH SARA GOODMAN CONFINO, JACQUELINE FRIEDLAND, JEAN MELTZER, AND JANE L. ROSEN
A thought-provoking discussion featuring four bestselling historical and contemporary fiction authors exploring the art of writing Jewish stories, and how the literary landscape has changed since October 7th.
Tuesday, February 24, 7pm
Presented in collaboration with our Ruth & Saul Weinberger Center for Jewish Life + Learning
SESAME BY RACHEL SIMONS
From the co-founder of Seed + Mill, learn about the rich history of the tiny sesame seed, its cultural impact, and delicious ways to incorporate it into recipes.
Wednesday, March 11, 7pm
Brought to you by our Edward & Bernice Wenger Center for the Arts—Literary Arts Programs supported by Jewish Book Council
CLUBS, CULTURE & CONNECTION
Form a community, be moved, and engage in various art forms that convey messages, meaning, and emotion!
Advance registration required at sjjcc.org/culture
PAINT & SIP
Unleash your creativity in a relaxed, social setting with a fresh twist on the classic paint night! Instead of traditional canvases, you’ll transform everyday objects—like vases, glassware, and trays—into personalized works of art. Enjoy a glass of wine (or your favorite beverage) as you paint, sip, and connect with others. No experience necessary—just bring your imagination!
Wednesdays, 7-9pm
September 17, November 12, January 21, March 25, May 13
$40 members / $50 nonmembers per event
Brought to you by our Edward & Bernice Wenger Center for the Arts
BOOK CLUB
Share your thoughts on today’s bestselling novels, moderated by Long Island’s Book Club Lady, Nicole Yablans!
Thursdays, 7-9pm
September 18 and November 13
$20 members / $30 nonmembers per event
Brought to you by our Center for Adult Programming
Funded in part by UJA-Federation of New York’s Verve 55+ Living
COMMUNITY BABKA BAKE
Experience the joy of hands-on baking as you craft your own babka—a sweet, twisted loaf full of flavor and tradition. With expert guidance, you’ll learn how to prepare and shape this beloved treat to take home and bake.
Monday, September 29, 6:30-8pm
$18 members / $36 nonmembers
Brought to you our Edward & Bernice Wenger Center for the Arts, Ruth & Saul Weinberger Center for Jewish Life + Learning, and Center for Adult Programming
WALKING CLUB
Lace up your sneakers and join us as we walk the grounds of the Nassau County Museum of Art, right across the street from SJJCC! Indoor strolls take place during inclement weather.
Thursdays, 9:30am
Brought to you by our Center for Adult Programming
Funded in part by UJA-Federation of New York’s Verve 55+ Living
INTRODUCTION TO DRAWING
Learn the basics of drawing in a welcoming, beginner-friendly setting. This class covers essential techniques like shading, perspective, and line work. Whether you’re picking up a pencil for the first time or reconnecting with a forgotten passion, enjoy guided instruction and hands-on practice.
4 sessions
Begins Monday, November 3, 7-8:30pm
$160 members / $200 nonmember
For more information, visit sjjcc.org/drawing
Brought to you by our Edward & Bernice Wenger Center for the Arts.
TRIPS
Experience culture through our day trips!
Advance registration required at sjjcc.org/trips
A DAY AT PLANTING FIELDS
Step into a bygone era with an exclusive docent-led tour of the historic Main House, where you’ll discover hidden gems and exquisite details not open to the general public. After, we’ll stroll through the stunning landscapes of Planting Fields’ many gardens. Catered lunch is included; participants are responsible for their own transportation; parking vouchers included.
At Planting Fields
1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay
Monday, September 29, 11am
$100 per person
NEW YORK BOTANICAL GARDEN’S VAN GOGH’S FLOWERS
Experience the magic that inspired Van Gogh’s masterpieces with botanical displays and large-scale art at NYBG’s exhibit. See his artwork brought to life through breathtaking floral arrangements. After the tour, enjoy a delicious lunch at Ann & Tony’s on Arthur Avenue in the Bronx. Trip includes NYBG tour, lunch, and round-trip transportation from the JCC.
Wednesday, October 22, 9:15am
$165 per person
Brought to you by our Edward & Bernice Wenger Center for the Arts
COMMUNITY THEATRE
Where stage dreams are made and theatrical visions come to life in smash-hit productions for all ages!
For more information, visit sjjcc.org/theatre
SID JACOBSON COMMUNITY PLAYERS PRESENT MARY POPPINS
Step into the magical world of Mary Poppins, the enchanting musical that has captivated audiences for decades! This spectacular production blends whimsy, magic, and unforgettable songs like Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious and A Spoonful of Sugar.
PERFORMANCES:
Saturdays
January 24
January 31
Sundays January 25 February 1
Brought to you by our Edward & Bernice Wenger Center for the Arts—Community Theatre
GAME WORKSHOPS
Learn something new or expand on your skills!
Advance registration required at sjjcc.org/gameworkshops
FALL CANASTA TOURNAMENT
Enjoy a day of Canasta at our tournament supervised by Judy Umansky! Prizes awarded to the first, second, and third place teams. A partner is needed to participate. A light breakfast and lunch will be served. Wednesday, November 12, 10am-3pm $100 members / $125 nonmembers
MAH JONGGG WITH INSTRUCTOR JUDY UMANSKY
BEGINNER MAH JONGG
Learn to play using the official rules of the National Mah Jongg League. 8 sessions
Begins Tuesday, October 14, 7-9:30pm Begins Monday, October 20, 10am-12:30pm
$200 members / $280 nonmembers
MAH JONGG CLINIC
For those who know the basic rules, vocabulary, and want advice and advanced strategies for improving their game. 8 sessions
Begins Thursday, October 16, 10am-12:30pm $200 members / $280 nonmembers
CANASTA WITH INSTRUCTOR JUDY UMANSKY
BEGINNER CANASTA
Learn the rules, strategies, and scoring with hands-on play. 8 sessions
Begins Thursday, October 16, 7-9:30pm
Begins Friday, October 17, 10am-12:30pm
Begins Monday, October 20, 4-6:30pm
$200 members / $280 nonmembers
CONQUERING CANASTA
Polish your skills while learning advanced strategies. 8 sessions
Begins Tuesday, October 14, 10am-12:30pm
$200 members / $280 nonmembers
BRIDGE WITH INSTRUCTOR ELLIOT DIAMOND
BEGINNER BRIDGE 1.0
Haven’t played bridge before? Join this class to learn all about the game!
8 sessions
$200 members
$280 nonmembers
BEGINNER BRIDGE 2.0
For those who have basic knowledge of bridge and taken Beginner Bridge 1.0. 8 sessions
$200 members
$280 nonmembers
Brought to you by our Center for Adult Programming Programs funded by Goidel Law Group
VERVE 55+ LIVING
ADVANCED BEGINNER/ INTERMEDIATE BRIDGE
Students should have knowledge of bidding and play of hand. 8 sessions
$200 members
$280 nonmembers
Welcome to VERVE, the community for fun, spirited, and active adults 55+! Whether you’re still working, semi-retired, or fully retired, there are lots of ways to get involved and meet new friends.
Advance registration required at sjjcc.org/verve
SINGLES CAFÉ V55
Mix and mingle at The Café at Sid Jacobson JCC with activities, music, and food!
First Thursday of the month.
6:30-8:30pm
November 6 and December 4
$20 members / $30 nonmembers per event
Brought to you by our Center for Adult Programming
Funded in part by UJA-Federation of New York’s Verve 55+ Living
ARTSPACE
View exhibits of established and emerging local artists in our 90-foot gallery! For more information, visit sjjcc.org/artspace
KATHY JACOBSON
On display September-November
Kathy Howard Jacobson is a New York-based photographer. Her work is largely comprised of street photography, photojournalism, portraiture, and most recently, abstracts, or what she refers to as “The beauty in details unseen”.
Kathy has been photographing since the mid-1970s, earning an undergraduate degree and an MFA in Photography, and went on to work professionally as a multi-image/special effects photographer and pursue her fine art photography.
Kathy’s projects of note include her photographic essays on Homelessness, New York City’s Garment Center and Chinatown, a collection of portraits made with Polapan film, and her collection of “Urban Paintings”. Her images of urban walls are an artistic record of the social/political and cultural issues that she has been documenting for decades.
In her most recent work, Kathy turns inward, exploring deeply personal themes. She captures an intimate vantage point from a French country bedroom, transforms distorted reflections into seascape watercolors, and finds beauty and abstraction in unremarkable, everyday environments.
Brought to you by our Edward & Bernice Wenger Center for the Arts
LONG ISLAND JEWISH HISTORY MUSEUM
For more information, visit sjjcc.org/jewishmuseum
Brought to you by Edward & Bernice Wenger Center for the Arts
ENTERTAINMENT & CRAFTS
REEL PSYCHOLOGY
Great films don’t just tell stories—they illuminate the human experience. Through compelling cinema and thoughtful conversation (with popcorn!), we’ll reflect on the emotions, challenges, and connections that shape what it means to be human—both on-screen and off.
Tuesdays, 1-3:30pm
FALL THEME: PRODUCTIVITY
September 16
October 21
November 18
Free to members / $10 nonmembers
CRAFT A MOMENT FOR SELF-CARE
WINTER THEME: GRATITUDE
December 16
January 20
February 17
Sometimes self-care means slowing down, getting creative, and making something with your own hands! Each session offers a simple, meaningful project designed to help you pause, connect, and reset. No experience needed; supplies included.
Thursdays, 2:30-3:30pm
FALL THEME: PRODUCTIVITY
September 25: Pause + (Decoupage) Plate
October 23: Diamond Printing
November 20: Ready, Set, Journal
WINTER THEME: GRATITUDE
December 18: Watercolor Card Collection
January 22: Personal Coloring Book Project
February 26: Stitched with Love
Three-pack seasonal series: $20 members / $40 nonmembers
Brought to you by our Gayle Berg Center for Resilience
SABRA SCREENS: KUGEL
If you loved the Israeli TV show Shtisel, don’t miss Kugel! This engaging prequel follows Nuchem and Libbi’s journey in 1990s Antwerp, Belgium. 8 sessions
Begins Tuesday, October 22, 5:30-6:30pm
$40 members / $50 nonmembers for full series (8)
$10 members / $12 nonmembers per episode
Each episode will have two scheduled showings, with rescreenings available for any missed viewings
Brought to you by our Randie Waldbaum Malinsky Center for Israel, Ruth & Saul Weinberger Center for Jewish Life + Learning, and Edward & Bernice Wenger Center for the Arts
Funded in part by UJA-Federation of New York’s Verve 55+ Living
JEWISH LIFE & LEARNING
We offer comprehensive programs infused with Jewish values, traditions, and culture. Through these core values, we strive to create a vibrant and supportive community that is both inclusive and accessible to all.
For more information, visit sjjcc.org/centerforisrael
SWEET START TO 5786
Celebrate the Jewish New Year with a taste of tradition! Dip an apple in honey to welcome sweetness, hope, and fresh beginnings.
L’shana Tova U’Metuka!
No registration needed; just stop by!
Wednesday, September 17, 10am-2pm
Brought to you by our Randie Waldbaum Malinsky Center for Israel and Ruth & Saul Weinberger Center for Jewish Life + Learning
FUN IN THE SUKKAH
Decorate our Sukkah!
Tuesday, October 7-Wednesday, October 15
Join us for pizza and dessert, wave the lulav and etrog, and help us decorate!
Wednesday, October 8, 5pm
SHABBAT DINNERS
Come celebrate Shabbat with community! Share in blessings, candle lighting, and a meal with friends, both old and new.
Fridays, 5pm
October 10
November 21
December 12
March 27
April 17
May 15
Saturdays, 5pm
January 17
February 28
$30 members / $40 nonmembers per dinner
Advance registration required at sjjcc.org/shabbat
Brought to you by our Ruth & Saul Weinberger Center for Jewish Life + Learning
CREATIVE CONNECTIONS CALENDAR
