Philly J

Gems at the J | Jukebox Musical II
2024-05-28 11:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | Kaiserman JCC, 45 Haverford Rd, Wynnewood, PA, 19096, United States
Instructor: Leila Joffe, MFA American Conservatory Theater, AFTRA, SAG, Actors Equity
Class Dates: Tuesdays: May 14th, May 21st, May 28th
The Jukebox Musical II is a musical with well-known songs as opposed to original music composed for the show. We will delve into musicals including; Motown the Musical, On Your Feet, The Cher Show, Ain’t Too Proud, Summer, and Juliet.
Register at the link below. When you click this link it will bring you to all classes and courses available for registration. Under Sport you can select the categories of interest to you (i.e. Gems | Music). Under Age you can select Gems to filter all Gems-age events.
Click here to register!

Gems at the J | Israeli Dancing with RakDan
2024-05-29 11:30 - 12:30, 2024-06-12 11:30 - 12:30, 2024-06-19 11:30 - 12:30 | Kaiserman JCC, 45 Haverford Rd, Wynnewood, PA, 19096, United States
Cost: $50 for full session of 5 classes, $15 Drop in
This class is eligible to use with our $48 unlimited monthly class pass. To use the unlimited monthly class pass, please email Rachel or Jamie.
Instructor: Don Schillinger, Philadelphia area Israeli Dance Teacher
Israeli dancing is a fun way to move at a slow to moderate pace while enjoying traditional Israeli music, socializing with others, and utilizing your brainpower to remember steps. No prior dance experience expected. You can choose to participate in the dance lessons, or come to listen to the music and watch the dancing if you prefer. Even after the class is done, you will be smiling and singing the songs! This gems-sponsored class is open to adults of all ages.
Register at the link below. When you click this link it will bring you to all classes and courses available for registration. Under Sport you can select the categories of interest to you (i.e. Gems | Wellness). Under Age you can select Gems to filter all Gems-age events.
To select just one class, next to “I am an individual registering” click on “Individual Fee” to see the entire list of class dates. If you are registering for more than one drop-in class, you will have to complete the registration for each date.
Click here to register!

Gems at the J | In Person Book Club with Zoom Option
2024-05-29 15:00 - 16:00 | Kaiserman JCC, 45 Haverford Rd, Wynnewood, PA, 19096, United States
Last Wednesday of the month
The GEMS book club offers stimulating discussion on a variety of genres that are relatable to many. This is a reoccurring group the meets the last Wednesday of every month. Join us as we discuss Blue Mountain by Meir Shalev on May 29. No meeting in April due to Passover. This meeting is in person with a Zoom option.
Please email gems@phillyjcc.com for the monthly zoom link.
Register at the link below. When you click this link it will bring you to all classes and courses available for registration. Under Sport you can select the categories of interest to you (i.e. Gems | Clubs). Under Age you can select Gems to filter all Gems-age events.
Click here to register!

Teen Girls' Martial Arts and Self Defense Training
2024-05-29 18:00 - 18:45, 2024-06-05 18:00 - 18:45 | Kaiserman JCC, 45 Haverford Rd, Wynnewood, PA, 19096, United States
3 Wednesdays: May 22, May 29, June 5
Discover the ultimate blend of empowerment and discipline with our Teen Girls’ Martial Arts and Self-Defense Training class.
Our program offers the opportunity to achieve up to a 2nd-Degree Black Belt through promotional testing, allowing you to set and conquer your goals. For those seeking an extra challenge, our optional Nunchucks Program adds a unique and exciting dimension to your martial arts journey.
Instructor, Abrielle Sarah Fuerst:

Third Degree Black Belt, World Taekwondo Federation
17 years teaching experience
Nationwide programs
Certified in trauma response

Register by Emailing Abrielle:
abrielle@wanderingfighters.com

Gems at the J | Political Affairs
2024-05-30 12:00 - 13:00 | Kaiserman JCC, 45 Haverford Rd, Wynnewood, PA, 19096, United States
Instructor: Dr. William Rosenberg, Professor of Political Science, Drexel University
Class Dates: Thursdays May 2nd, May 16th, May 23rd, May 30th (No class May 9th)
Each session will be focused on a different topic of the political news. Dr. Rosenberg will present and analyze the various aspects of the current political sphere.
Register at the link below. When you click this link it will bring you to all classes and courses available for registration. Under Sport you can select the categories of interest to you (i.e. Gems | Politics). Under Age you can select Gems to filter all Gems-age events.
Click here to register!

Gems at the J | Mahjong Open Play
2024-05-30 13:00 - 15:00 | Kaiserman JCC, 45 Haverford Rd, Wynnewood, PA, 19096, United States
Every Thursday, Except on Holidays
For beginners and seasoned players alike. Facilitators will be available to assist beginner players. Veteran players can join peers familiar with the game.
Register at the link below. When you click this link it will bring you to all classes and courses available for registration. Under Sport you can select the categories of interest to you (i.e. Gems | Clubs). Under Age you can select Gems to filter all Gems-age events.
Click here to register!

Gems at the J | Canasta Club
2024-06-03 15:00 - 17:00, 2024-06-10 15:00 - 17:00, 2024-06-17 15:00 - 17:00, 2024-06-24 15:00 - 17:00 | Kaiserman JCC, 45 Haverford Rd, Wynnewood, PA, 19096, United States
Every Monday, Except on Holidays
Come to the JCC and join friends to play Canasta. Knowledge of how to play the game is required – Canasta Club has no facilitators. Feel free to bring snacks!
Click here to register for this event!
See all classes at the link below. When you click this link it will bring you to all classes and courses available for registration. Under Sport you can select the categories of interest to you (i.e. Gems | Art Appreciation). Under Age you can select Gems to filter all Gems-age events.
Click here to see all of the Gems classes!

Gems at the J | Introduction To Zentangle
2024-06-04 11:00 - 13:00 | Kaiserman JCC, 45 Haverford Rd, Wynnewood, PA, 19096, United States
Instructor: Mindy Shapiro
Cost: $25
Zentangle® has been described as a spiritual art practice which enhances mindfulness and self-awareness, decreases stress and calms the mind. In this relaxing, creative, meditative and fun workshop, where no talent or experience is needed, you will learn 4-6 basic Zentangle patterns. Each structured pattern will be broken down into small steps and what results are beautiful creative and unique images. Tangles are created on small paper tiles using a special black drawing pen. You will leave class confident in your unique, creative expression and with new skills to continue tangling on your own.
Click here to register for this event!
See all classes at the link below. When you click this link it will bring you to all classes and courses available for registration. Under Sport you can select the categories of interest to you (i.e. Gems | Info Session). Under Age you can select Gems to filter all Gems-age events.
Click here to see all of the Gems classes!

Celebrating and Honoring Cindy Smukler and Jeffrey Barrack
2024-06-05 18:00 - 20:00 | Kaiserman JCC, 45 Haverford Rd, Wynnewood, PA, 19096, United States
Please join us to celebrate and honor Cindy Smukler and Jeffrey Barrack for their longstanding leadership in our community and for their work strengthening our ties to Israel.
In the company of:
Alon Davidi, Mayor of Sderot
Hagit Yaso, Winner of Kokhav Nolad (Israeli Idol) and survivor of October Seventh
Ticket details forthcoming – Sponsorship Opportunities Available

Gems at the J | Pronouns Defined - In Honor of Pride Month
2024-06-06 11:30 - 12:30 | Kaiserman JCC, 45 Haverford Rd, Wynnewood, PA, 19096, United States
Instructor: Manda Gross, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Accessibility Learning Leader at Comcast
Cost: Free, Suggested Donation $10
While we’ve always used pronouns to refer to someone else in conversation, recently we’re hearing and seeing more discussion around pronouns. And yes, it can be confusing at first! They/them, he/him, she/her. But using someone’s correct pronouns and pronouncing their name correctly is a way of respecting them and referring to them in a way that’s true to who they are. In this session we’ll discuss the “why” behind pronouns, the impact of pronouns, and how being mindful about using the correct pronouns is a great way to show respect for your family members, friends, and acquaintances. With colorful snacks!
Click here to register for this event!
See all classes at the link below. When you click this link it will bring you to all classes and courses available for registration. Under Sport you can select the categories of interest to you (i.e. Gems | Politics). Under Age you can select Gems to filter all Gems-age events.
Click here to see all of the Gems classes!

SunriseWALKS Greater Philadelphia
2024-06-09 09:00 - 12:00 | Kaiserman JCC, 45 Haverford Rd, Wynnewood, PA, 19096, United States
SunriseWALKS Greater Philly is part of Sunrise Association’s National Walk-A-Thon Campaign committed to raising awareness and critical funds for Sunrise Day Camp-Greater Philadelphia. More than just a walk, this event celebrates the fundraising efforts of caring individuals who want to change the lives of children with cancer. Join us for the inaugural event Sunday, June 9, 2024, at the Kaiserman JCC for a day filled with music, fun and games, prizes and more!
Click here to donate and register!

Gems at the J | Learn and Light Bites with Alzheimers Association: Healthy Living for Your Brain and Body
2024-06-10 12:00 - 13:30 | Kaiserman JCC, 45 Haverford Rd, Wynnewood, PA, 19096, United States
Instructor: Alzheimers Association
For centuries, we’ve known that the health of the brain and the body are connected. But now, science is able to provide insights into how lifestyle choices may help you keep your brain and body healthy as you age. Join us to learn about research in the areas of diet and nutrition, exercise, cognitive activity and social engagement, and use hands-on tools to help you incorporate these recommendations into a plan for healthy aging.
Lunch for this event is co-sponsored by The Weinberg Foundation Grant and Tikvah AJMI.
Click here to register for the June Learn and Light Bites!
Register at the link below. When you click this link it will bring you to all classes and courses available for registration. Under Sport you can select the categories of interest to you (i.e. Gems | Wellness). Under Age you can select Gems to filter all Gems-age events.
Click here to view all Gems Events!

Gems at the J | Hands On Art Workshops: Art for Relief - Tooling Foil
2024-06-10 13:45 - 15:15 | Kaiserman JCC, 45 Haverford Rd, Wynnewood, PA, 19096, United States
Instructor: Gavi Kestenbaum
Pay as you wish, suggested $10 for supplies
Artisans from all over the world have been manipulating metals to create works of art for centuries. In this workshop, we will use medium thick sheets of aluminum for etching and engraving. Learn to use stencils and simple drawings to create textured works of art.
Click here to register for this event!
See all classes at the link below. When you click this link it will bring you to all classes and courses available for registration. Under Sport you can select the categories of interest to you (i.e. Gems | Art Appreciation). Under Age you can select Gems to filter all Gems-age events.
Click here to see all of the Gems classes!

Preschool End of the Year Celebration and Fundraiser
2024-06-10 16:30 - 18:00 | Kaiserman JCC, 45 Haverford Rd, Wynnewood, PA, 19096, United States
Robert J. Wilf Preschool and Kindergarten
End of Year Celebration and Fundraiser
EVENT RESCHEDULED
Please note that this event is being postponed until Monday, June 10th!
Family Activities • Art Show • Snacks • Raffles
Story walk with PJ Library
Come out to celebrate a year of creativity and friendship, and support the Robert J. Wilf Preschool & Kindergarten. Enjoy family activities, raffles, snacks and so much more!
Bring your own picnic dinner and blanket or pre-order a pizza for your convenience.
Volunteers Needed: pto@phillyjcc.com
Click here to RSVP
Suggested: $36 / Family
And please consider making a donation to allow us to invest in your teachers, your programming, and your preschool.
Click here to check out our Educational Fundraising Opportunities

Gems at the J | Shavuot Cooking Class - Do it Dairy, Cheesecake & More
2024-06-11 12:00 - 13:00 | Kaiserman JCC, 45 Haverford Rd, Wynnewood, PA, 19096, United States
Instructor: Scott Noy, Chef Dad’s Table
Celebrate Shavuot with a traditional dairy lunch including blintze souffle, cheesecakes and more! During this hands-on cooking class, we will explore traditional recipes for cheesecake and add a few with a fresh, modern, and delicious twist. Lunch is included.
Click here to register for this event!
See all classes at the link below. When you click this link it will bring you to all classes and courses available for registration. Under Sport you can select the categories of interest to you (i.e. Gems | Judaism & Israel). Under Age you can select Gems to filter all Gems-age events.
Click here to see all of the Gems classes!

Klezmer Jam Workshop
2024-06-23 14:00 - 16:00 | Kaiserman JCC, 45 Haverford Rd, Wynnewood, PA, 19096, United States
Back by popular demand, we are pleased to host a Klezmer Jam Workshop at the JCC!
Klezmer, the music of Eastern European Jewish folk instrumentalists, will be celebrated by world-renowned musical artist, author and composer, Dr. Hankus Netsky. Founder of the Klezmer Conservatory Band, Hankus regularly collaborates with Itzhak Perlman and is largely credited for his role in the renaissance of interest in Yiddish music. This unique workshop will be taught in the oral (aural) tradition rather than relying upon the printed page. We’ll progress from singing to playing as we study the basics of klezmer sound, phrasing, and ornamentation, and the traditional role of each instrument in a klezmer ensemble.
All levels are welcome, but attendance will be limited to 75 participants to allow for hands-on guidance. This event will fill up, so register now!
Doors open at 1:30.
For questions about the event or sponsorship opportunities, please contact us at gems@phillyjcc.com.
Register Here

Live stream this event here

Gems at the J | History of Jewish Philadelphia
2024-06-24 11:00 - 12:00, 2024-07-01 11:00 - 12:00 | Kaiserman JCC, 45 Haverford Rd, Wynnewood, PA, 19096, United States
Instructor: Dr. Reena Friedman, Gratz College
Class Dates: Mondays June 24, July 1, July 8, July 15
This four-part series highlights key moments in the history of the Philadelphia Jewish community from Colonial times through the twentieth century. Using drawings/photographs and documents, we will discuss important events, personalities and institutions that contributed to Philadelphia becoming an “ideal experimental center of American Jewish creativity.” ~Rabbi Bertram Korn
Click here to register for this event!
See all classes at the link below. When you click this link it will bring you to all classes and courses available for registration. Under Sport you can select the categories of interest to you (i.e. Gems | Info Session). Under Age you can select Gems to filter all Gems-age events.
Click here to see all of the Gems classes!

Gems at the J | Mahjong Open Play
2024-06-24 13:00 - 15:00 | Kaiserman JCC, 45 Haverford Rd, Wynnewood, PA, 19096, United States
Every Monday in the summer (June 24-August 12), Except on Holidays
For beginners and seasoned players alike. Facilitators will be available to assist beginner players. Veteran players can join peers familiar with the game.
Click here to register for this event!
See all classes at the link below. When you click this link it will bring you to all classes and courses available for registration. Under Sport you can select the categories of interest to you (i.e. Gems | Clubs). Under Age you can select Gems to filter all Gems-age events.
Click here to see all of the Gems classes!

Hot Dog Tuesday at the Pool
2024-06-25 17:00 - 19:00 | Kaiserman JCC, 45 Haverford Rd, Wynnewood, PA, 19096, United States
Hot Dogs by the pool are back!
Join us Tuesday evenings this summer for hot dogs and ice pops. June 25 through August 13th | 5-7pm
We accept cash and credit card. Hot Dog Tuesday is weather dependent and subject to cancelation.
Hot dogs $2 | Ice Pops $2 | Water Bottles $1
Get Your Summer Swim Membership

Gems at the J | Israeli Dancing with RakDan
2024-06-26 11:30 - 12:30 | Kaiserman JCC, 45 Haverford Rd, Wynnewood, PA, 19096, United States
Cost: $15 Drop in
This class is eligible to use with our $48 unlimited monthly class pass. To use the unlimited monthly class pass, please speak to the front desk or email Rachel or Jamie.
Instructor: Don Schillinger, Philadelphia area Israeli Dance Teacher
Israeli dancing is a fun way to move at a slow to moderate pace while enjoying traditional Israeli music, socializing with others, and utilizing your brainpower to remember steps. No prior dance experience expected. You can choose to participate in the dance lessons, or come to listen to the music and watch the dancing if you prefer. Even after the class is done, you will be smiling and singing the songs! This gems-sponsored class is open to adults of all ages.
Register at the link below. When you click this link it will bring you to all classes and courses available for registration. Under Sport you can select the categories of interest to you (i.e. Gems | Wellness). Under Age you can select Gems to filter all Gems-age events.
To select just one class, next to “I am an individual registering” click on “Individual Fee” to see the entire list of class dates. If you are registering for more than one drop-in class, you will have to complete the registration for each date.
Click here to register!

Gems at the J | Films That The Oscars Overlooked
2024-06-26 12:30 - 14:30 | Kaiserman JCC, 45 Haverford Rd, Wynnewood, PA, 19096, United States
Instructor: Irv Slifkin, Film historian and professor of journalism at Temple University.
Class Dates: Wednesdays June 26th, July 3, July 10, July 17
Only one film is chosen each year to win the Academy Award for “Best Picture” leaving some terrific movies in the dust. In this series, we will watch and discuss films that didn’t receive the big award but deserve to be remembered for their accomplishments.
June 26: Stagecoach (1939) with John Wayne, Claire Trevor
July 3: Crossfire (1947) with Robert Young, Robert Mitchum
Jul 10: Breaking Away (1979) with Dennis Christopher, Dennis Quaid
July 17: Atlantic City (1980) with Burt Lancaster, Susan Sarandon
Click here to register for this event!
See all classes at the link below. When you click this link it will bring you to all classes and courses available for registration. Under Sport you can select the categories of interest to you (i.e. Gems | History). Under Age you can select Gems to filter all Gems-age events.
Click here to see all of the Gems classes!

Gems at the J | In Person Book Club with Zoom Option
2024-06-26 15:00 - 16:00 | Kaiserman JCC, 45 Haverford Rd, Wynnewood, PA, 19096, United States
Last Wednesday of the month
The GEMS book club offers stimulating discussion on a variety of genres that are relatable to many. This is a reoccurring group the meets the last Wednesday of every month. Join us as we discuss: Passing by Nella Larson on June 26th
Book Blurb: Irene Redfield is a Black woman living an affluent, comfortable life with her husband and children in the thriving neighborhood of Harlem in the 1920s. When she reconnects with her childhood friend Clare Kendry, who is similarly light-skinned, Irene discovers that Clare has been passing for a white woman after severing ties to her past–even hiding the truth from her racist husband. Clare finds herself drawn to Irene’s sense of ease and security with her Black identity and longs for the community (and, increasingly, the woman) she lost. Irene is both riveted and repulsed by Clare and her dangerous secret, as Clare begins to insert herself–and her deception–into every part of Irene’s stable existence. First published in 1929, Larsen’s brilliant examination of the various ways in which we all seek to “pass,” is as timely as ever.
This meeting is in person with a Zoom option.
Please email gems@phillyjcc.com for the monthly zoom link.
Click here to register for this event!
See all classes at the link below. When you click this link it will bring you to all classes and courses available for registration. Under Sport you can select the categories of interest to you (i.e. Gems | Clubs). Under Age you can select Gems to filter all Gems-age events.
Click here to see all of the Gems classes!

Shalom Summer: With Nefesh Mountain and Honoring 6 over 60 - LOCATION CHANGED!
2024-06-30 15:30 - 19:00 | Temple Beth Hillel-Beth El, 1001 Remington Road, Wynnewood, 19096
Attention! Location Has Changed!
Due to a weather advisory, we will be moving our Shalom Summer concert featuring Nefesh Mountain and honoring 6 community members over 60 right down the road to Temple Beth Hillel-Beth El. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Temple Beth Hillel-Beth El is located at 1001 Remington Rd, Wynnewood, PA 19096.
Please be informed that:
The show is now indoors. There will be limited seating, feel free to bring a blanket to sit on.
Anyone who ordered Nana’s Kitchen will still be able to pick up their food.
If you plan to bring your own food, please make sure that it is vegetarian/parve/dairy.
There is parking available onsite.
We are still excited to welcome Mister Softie who will have ice cream and Twisted Gingers Brewing Co who will be serving their delicious brews, seltzers and NA beverages!
We are so excited to see you at our kick-off summer event!
There’s still time to RSVP Online!

Shalom Summer
Sunday, June 30 | 3:30-7pm (rain or shine)
$36 Suggested Donation
Get ready for an unforgettable celebration! Registration is open for our second annual Shalom Summer extravaganza! After the tremendous success of last year’s event honoring Ron and Rachelle Kaiserman, we’re thrilled to invite you to another fantastic gathering filled with music, community, and gratitude.
RSVP Online!
Sponsorship Opportunities

Prepare to be captivated by the mesmerizing tunes of the Americana/Folk/Bluegrass band, Nefesh Mountain, as they grace our stage with two sets of soul-stirring melodies.
But wait, there’s more!
This year, we’re honored to recognize six outstanding individuals from our community who have dedicated over 60 years of their lives to service and devotion. Their names resonate with gratitude and admiration:

Llewellyn Thomas
Neil & Lois Shander
Karen Rosenfeld
Na’ama Yarden
Neil Haimm
Fran & Marvin Weinberger

Their tireless efforts have shaped our community into the inclusive and vibrant hub it is today. Join us as we celebrate their extraordinary contributions and the spirit of unity that defines Shalom Summer.
We hope to see you there!
