Shames JCC

Friendsgiving Potluck Lunch
2024-11-13 12:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York)
FREE for members and non-members
Bring a dish to share with friends new and not-new for a friendsgiving potluck at the JCC! We’ll gather to celebrate all we’re grateful for in our JCC community. We’ll provide the turkey, you bring a side or dessert. Click here to tell us what you’re bringing!
NOTE: Please keep foods kosher style (no shellfish, pork, or dairy mixed with meat in the same dish) and bring a list of ingredients in case of allergies.

Common Ground: God Bless America! Praying in Public for our Elected Leaders— Patriotic Duty or Divisive Practice?
2024-11-14 10:00 - 11:00
In post-election America, we will explore the pros and cons of Jewish and Christian prayers, both formally conceived and spontaneously offered for our elected leaders. Join the Rabbi and Rector for an opportunity to share your thoughts about praying for our elected officials regardless of their— or your— party political affiliation.
This is part of the Common Ground: Interfaith Dialogue series. Rabbi Jay Stein, Greenburgh Hebrew Center, and Rev. Gareth Evans, St. Barnabas Episcopal Church of Irvington, come together for an enlightening conversation to build bridges across real and perceived differences. Your participation as a “fly on the wall” and/or an engaged conversationalist is welcome. These are on the 2nd Thursday of every month.

Challah and Conversation: Patriotism, Nationalism, Partisan Politics, and Jewish Wisdom
2024-11-15 09:30 - 10:30
In this hypersensitive partisan time in American life, we will benefit from a discussion that draws from the wisdom of Dan Rather from his book What Unites Us, along with 3,000 years of Jewish wisdom to help us make our way through these challenging weeks. As always, your presence makes our conversation all the richer.
In the Challah and Conversation series, Rabbi Ron Symons, Shames JCC Sr. Director of Jewish Engagement, leads interactive guided conversations about life that weave the world around us with general spirituality through Jewish and other lenses. We begin our time together by lighting candles and end with a little grape juice and challah… all in a very inclusive way. Neighbors of all backgrounds are welcome. These are on the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th Fridays of each month.

Sensory Swim (All ages)
2024-11-15 18:00 - 19:30
Come spend your Friday night with us at our special Sensory-Friendly Swim Night, exclusively for families with an immediate member with a disability. The pool will be reserved just for you, providing a sensory-friendly environment where you can enjoy a relaxing swim without the usual distractions. This event is designed to accommodate sensory sensitivities and ensure a comfortable, enjoyable experience for all participants.

J Sports Academy: Open House
2024-11-17 11:00 - 12:00
Join J Sports Academy at The Masters School (park and meet at the Fonseca Center) for a taste of what’s to come this summer! You’ll get to see the beautiful facilities where camp is happening, meet camp leadership, and learn more about our program. Snacks and refreshments will be served.

Stephen Sondheim: An Afternoon of Song and Story
2024-11-17 15:00 - 16:30
We are bringing Broadway to The Ark in an unforgettable afternoon combining history with a musical production! In this special event from the Golden Ticket Series, Broadway legend Jack Viertel provides insight into the life and mind of Stephen Sondheim, one of the modern masters of the American musical. While exploring the background of his iconic songs, you’ll be treated to a performance of his famous works by a quartet of professional singers, accompanied by a live orchestra. A selection of books by Jack Viertel (that he is available to sign!) and about Sondheim will be available for sale by Transom Bookshop at the show, or preorder here.
“The shows produced by Rebecca Cooper are nothing short of fabulous! The vocalists and musicians are extremely talented, and the shows are productions worthy of Broadway or the West End!”- Rabbi Joui Hessel, former Director of Bronfman Center for Jewish Life at 92NY.

Should You Care About Language Diversity?
2024-11-18 10:00 - 11:30
Do you speak a foreign language? Unfortunately, most American speak only English and our education system gives language facilities a low priority, unlike most other countries. Americans miss out on a lot by being monolingual: the broadened perspective that knowing a foreign language offers; the added intellectual and creative stimulation; the enjoyment of traveling to countries whose language you speak; and the enhanced job prospects in an international labor marketplace. Join us as we discuss the many aspects of foreign languages and what knowing–or not knowing– another language has meant for your life.
About the facilitator: David Cheney is an international economics writer, instructor, and trainer for international and educational institutions. He has held a variety of positions at the International Monetary Fund and has provided communications and writing support for a number of multilateral institutions including the World Bank, Inter-American Development Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank.

Verve Book Club: "City of Thieves" by David Benioff
2024-11-20 11:30 - 13:00
Set during the Siege of Leningrad in World War II, City of Thieves follows the story of a young Jewish man who finds himself imprisoned for looting. In a twist of fate, he is paired with a charismatic, roguish soldier named Kolya, and together they embark on a dangerous quest. Their journey through a war-torn city filled with danger, humor, and unexpected camaraderie is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.
Verve Book club is FREE for members and non-members. Whether you’ve read the book or just want to hear about it, all are welcome!

Challah and Conversation: Cultivating Gratitude and Joy: How Every Day Might be Thanksgiving
2024-11-22 09:30 - 10:30
If only we could be thankful the other 364 days of the year. We will gather around in preparation for Thanksgiving to feast on an array of morsels of wisdom and insight to help us strengthen our gratitude muscles. As always, your presence makes our conversation all the richer.
In the Challah and Conversation series, Rabbi Ron Symons, Shames JCC Sr. Director of Jewish Engagement, leads interactive guided conversations about life that weave the world around us with general spirituality through Jewish and other lenses. We begin our time together by lighting candles and end with a little grape juice and challah… all in a very inclusive way. Neighbors of all backgrounds are welcome. These are on the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th Fridays of each month.

Chair-Based Neshama Body and Soul Demo Class
2024-11-22 11:00 - 12:00
Members: free; non-members: $10
Chair-Based Neshama Body and Soul is a workout-worship practice that combines Jewish prayer and teachings with bodyweight strength training. Engage your physical core by doing various exercises from a seated position, while engaging your spiritual core by singing verses of Jewish prayer and reflecting on questions that come from Jewish texts. Come try this unique method free of charge!
About the instructor:
Rabbi Jaymee Alpert is passionate about exploring the connection between spirituality and physical activity. She is the co-creator of Neshama Body and Soul, a practice that combines exercise with Jewish prayer and Torah reflections. Rabbi Jaymee spent 20 years as a congregational rabbi serving synagogues in the Bay Area, Westchester, NY, and Princeton, NJ. She was ordained by the Jewish Theological Seminary and holds master’s degrees in Jewish Education and Jewish Women’s Studies. Rabbi Jaymee currently sits on the Conservative Movement’s Committee on Jewish Law and Standards and on the board of Lilith Magazine, and she is a certified fitness trainer and life coach.

Family Fridays: The Lego Movie 2
2024-11-22 18:00 - 20:00
Kick off your weekend with your friends at the J over pizza and a screening of The Lego Movie 2 in our new theater! Wear your comfy clothes and we’ll take care of the rest by feeding and entertaining you and your kids.
Member price: Kids ages 2-18 $5 (under 2 free); adults $8
Non-member price: Kids ages 2-18 $8 (under 2 free); adults $12

Pass The Turkey but Don’t Talk Politics
2024-11-25 10:00 - 11:30
Do you yearn for those days when you could have a difference of opinion with someone who voted differently than you? Oy! Join Rabbi Ron Symons in a guided conversation about how to live in community across real and perceived differences. Your opinions will help us find paths forward with family, friends, and neighbors whose politics may diverge from your own.

PB&J Sandwich Pop-Up for Neighbors in Need
2024-11-25 12:00 - 13:00
Join us for 5 minutes or an entire hour as we make a lot of PB&J sandwiches for neighbors in need. The Northern Westchester Community Center in Katonah provides food, clothing, and social services to 500 families a week who can’t make ends meet and they have asked us to help. We’ll provide all supplies but welcome your contribution of a loaf or two of bread. Please contact Rabbi Ron Symons at rsymons@shamesjcc.org for more information.

Foreign Affairs Discussion Group: Europe in Decline
2024-11-26 19:00 - 20:15
Europe has suffered a loss of competitiveness and business dynamism relative to the US and China. In 1992, the EU accounted for 29% of global output and was a leader in new technologies; by 2022, its share of world output was just 17% and it had lost many of its new tech companies. What has caused this decline, and how can Europe bounce back?

Coffee and Games
2024-11-27 11:30 - 13:00
Grab a friend or meet a new one over coffee and a good game. We provide Scrabble, playing cards, Rummikub, Mah Jongg, Othello, chess, and more; you’re also welcome to bring your own. Free coffee for players; feel free to bring your lunch!

Linking Creativity and Autism with Rosa Martinez
2024-12-02 10:00 - 11:30
Did you know that some of the greatest artistic minds are also on the autistic spectrum? Join us for a fascinating presentation by Rosa Martinez, president and founder of Strokes of Genius, Inc, to learn more about the amazing skills of autistic savants. Along with a brief history and introduction to the extraordinary art of these individuals, she will show you selections of their paintings, music, and other works–including those currently on display in our halls!.
About the presenter: Dr. Martinez is the President and founder of Strokes of Genius, Inc. SOG is a non-profit organization that empowers individuals on the autism spectrum. She curates art exhibitions in the United States and internationally featuring the artwork of autistic savants. Dr. Martinez has taught at the College of Staten Island, Long Island University, Touro and Hunter College. She has lectured and presented at various conferences regarding Autism and Applied Behavior Analysis and has been instrumental in establishing ABA programs and schools for young children with PDD and Autism in New York City.

Pop-Up: Fused-Glass Housewares from Abe Rosenthal
2024-12-03 08:00 - 13:00
Explore beautiful handmade fused-glass gifts, such as plates, bowls, coasters, hearts, and hanging vases.

Caregiver Conversation Circle
2024-12-03 12:30 - 13:30
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.

Visit Lima Peru! Livestream Tour in The Ark
2024-12-03 14:00 - 15:00
FREE for members and non-members, incl. light snacks
Ever wanted to visit Peru? Join a group livestream tour of one of the most beautiful cities on the planet: Lima. This new monthly program for the culturally curious– brought to us by our partners at Wowzitude–allows travel enthusiasts an insider’s view on a new location every tour. You can even interact live with your tour guide! Each tour comes with a “trip kit” that contains cultural, culinary, and other resources about the destination – great for both armchair travelers and those who may go in real life.

Hot Topics
2024-12-04 11:30 - 13:00
Come 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!

Behind the Scenes: "Crossing Delancey": Film Screening and Q&A with Production Sound Mixer Danny Michael
2024-12-04 18:30 - 20:30
FREE for members; $10 non-members
Every wonder what goes into making a Hollywood film? Join us for a screening of the classic romantic comedy Crossing Delancey, then stay for a discussion with the film’s production sound mixer, Danny Michael. An Academy Award nominee, Danny, has worked on over 90 films and has lots of stories to share. Bring your questions!

Pop-Up: Ceramics from Maggie Chow
2024-12-05 09:00 - 13:00
Explore handmade, functional ceramics with special designs, all created locally in Westchester and without any toxic materials.

YAI Unique Boutique
2024-12-05 15:00 - 17:00
Driven by a mission to see beyond disabilities, YAI creates opportunities for people to live, love, work, and learn as integral members of their communities. Every item they sell is thoughtfully designed and crafted by adults with disabilities. Your purchase of homemade items including jewelry directly supports these talented artisans, helping them build fulfilling careers and fostering a more inclusive society.

Clergy Talk: The Maccabees in Their Own Words
2024-12-06 09:30 - 10:30
The Books of the Maccabees were written too late to be included in the Hebrew Bible, and too early to make it into the New Testament. They tell the story of Hanukhah from the perspective of those who experienced it, and that retelling is as fascinating for what it leaves out as for what it includes. We’ll look at selected passages and get the eyewitness account of the origin of the Festival of Lights.
Join Rabbi David Holtz of Temple Beth Abraham for this month’s Clergy Talk (formerly Challenging Times, Ageless Insights). Each month, we feature meaningful conversations with Rivertowns clergy. Your voice matters and makes these conversations all the more valuable. These are on the first Friday of every month.

Laughter Yoga with Dr. Vinodray Shah
2024-12-06 11:00 - 12:00
Laughter Yoga is a unique exercise routine that combines unconditional laughter with yogic breathing. Laughter reaps many scientific benefits including reduction of stress, anxiety, and depression; lower blood pressure; a strengthened immune system; and much more. Laughter is initially stimulated as a physical exercise and soon leads to real and contagious laughter. Bring your playful spirit!
FREE for members and non-members

Raising Resilience: Help Your Children Thrive in Times of Uncertainty With Tovah P. Klein PhD
2024-12-07 10:30 - 12:00
How can parents help children thrive in an uncertain world? Renowned child development psychologist Dr. Tovah Klein’s work explores how parents can help children build resilience to adapt, handle life’s challenges, and have confidence and compassion when confronted with adversity and stress. In this talk, Dr. Klein will outline the “Five Pillars of Resilience” explored in her best-selling book, providing concrete, evidence-based strategies to help parents understand their children’s current needs, foster strong relationships, and support their healthy growth and development. A Q&A session will follow.
“In these uncertain times, there is no more important book than Raising Resilience.” Eve Rodsky, NYT bestselling author of Fair Play
“Raising Resilience will guide you in raising a child who feels secure in their relationship with you, knows how to navigate their own feelings, and not only adapts to challenges or traumas but also thrives after them.” — Richard C. Schwartz, PhD, author of No Bad Parts
Ticket to the event plus a signed copy of the book: $35
Two tickets to the event plus one copy of the signed book: $40
Members receive 10% off
About Tovah:
Tovah P. Klein, PhD, is Director of the Barnard College Center for Toddler Development, a psychology professor at Barnard College, Columbia University, and the author of How Toddlers Thrive: What Parents Can Do Today for Children Ages 2-5 to Plant the Seeds of Lifelong Success and the recently published Raising Resilience: How to Help our Children Thrive in Times of Uncertainty. Dr. Klein has worked with and conducted research on parents and children of all ages for over three decades. She and her works appear frequently in the media, including the New York Times, Washington Post, Huffington Post, Parents, Motherly, Business Insider, Popsugar, Purewow, and Slate. She has appeared on Good Morning America, CNN, MSNBC, Tamron Hall show, the Today show, and NPR. A former developmental advisor to Sesame Street, she advises organizations worldwide, including Room to Grow, Ubuntu Pathways South Africa, Hunts Point Alliance for Children, and Children’s Museum of Manhattan. She lives in New York City with her family and is the mother of three sons.

Pop-Up: Hanukkah Candles from Boy Scout Troop 55 of Irvington
2024-12-08 09:00 - 12:00
Don’t forget to purchase your Hanukkah candles! Boy Scout Troop 55 of Irvington will be onsite selling candles for Hanukkah. Boxes are $20 per box (cash, Venmo, and Zelle all accepted). All sales go to support the local scouts program.

J Sports Academy: Kick It with the Coaches
2024-12-08 11:00 - 12:30 | The Masters School, 49 Clinton Avenue, Dobbs Ferry, NY
49 Clinton Ave, Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522
Join J Sports Academy at The Masters School for a taste of what’s to come this summer. You’ll get to see the beautiful facilities where camp is happening, meet camp leadership, and learn more about our program. Your child will also have the opportunity to play with J Sports coaches, so make sure to bring sneakers! They’ll enjoy activities and games in soccer, basketball, Pickleball, and fencing with Westchester sport lovers!
Snacks and refreshments will be served.

Mah Jongg Tournament
2024-12-08 13:00 - 17:30
Members: $30; non-members: $36
Space limited to 40 players
Looking to take your Mah Jongg skills to the next level? Join us for our first-ever Mah Jongg tournament and see if you’ll walk away with a prize! This tournament includes three rounds of 20-minute games with breaks in between. Tournament rules can be found here.
Your ticket includes all supplies, coffee, and light refreshments. Enjoy a fun afternoon of friendly competition!
Players will need to bring their 2024 NMJL card and cash for the raffles, and be able to stay for the entire program.
Register by November 25!

Pop-Up: Handcrafted Home Decor and Interactive Designs with Elizabeth Naughton and Vanessa Pineda Fox
2024-12-09 09:00 - 11:00
Explore unique, thoughtfully created gifts with interactive designs including calendars, ornaments, greeting cards, jewelry and jewelry dishes, artwork and more!
