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Gems at the J

Gems at the J | Zentangle

| WED, AUG 12, 2026

October’s design is Fall Decor. 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,…

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Gems at the J | Expressive Strokes Hands-On Art Workshop

| WED, AUG 12, 2026

This supportive art therapy program in partnership with JFCS provides participants with a creative space to express themselves, reduce stress, and build meaningful connections. Through guided art activities, participants explore…

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Gems at the J | Talks about the Election

| WED, AUG 12, 2026

On October 13th, we will be, “Previewing the midterms: what does the electoral landscape look like as Election Day approaches?” Dr. Matthew R. Kerbel is professor emeritus at Villanova University,…

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Gems at the J | Tech Savvy Seniors

| WED, AUG 12, 2026

Feeling frustrated by your cell phone, tablet, or computer? You’re not alone and help is here! Reserve your spot today! Join Benjamin Wallace, a rising senior at Lower Merion High School and dedicated Cyber Seniors volunteer, who is passionate about helping older adults become more comfortable and confident using today’s technology. Each class begins with a short lesson on a practical technology topic, followed by time for questions and personalized assistance. Bring your device and your questions! Topics will include: Spotting scams, Mastering aspects of smartphones, Making and storing strong passwords, AI features that might come in handy, Digital organization, and  Best ways to transfer money online. Lookout for other dates! (Must register separately): November 30, December 21

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Gems at the J | Charms of Fairmount Park Trip

| FRI, AUG 07, 2026

Come for 3 weekly tours of The Charms of Fairmont Park. Each week we will head to a different historical landmark and take a tour to learn about the stories…

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Gems at the J | The Dawn of Human Art

| FRI, AUG 07, 2026

At the Dawn of Human Art:  Inside the Painted Caves of Southwest France  With Stephen (Dr. Steve) Phillips, Ph.D., Penn Museum Our capability to express ourselves symbolically through art is among the features that make our species unique in the animal kingdom. The search for the origins of human art plays an important role in anthropological research to this very day. Why produce art at all? Can we, from our viewpoint tens of thousands of years later, even understand the intent of the Paleolithic artisans who created these images deep inside remote caves? Modern human artistic expression is evident in the form of hundreds, if not thousands, of stunning images painted onto the walls of caves in southern France. Early modern human occupation(s) of these painted caves range in date from about 15,000 years ago to as much as 30,000 years ago and beyond, an astounding depth of time. Over the course of four summers excavating a Neanderthal-era archaeological site elsewhere in southwest France, Dr. Steve had the opportunity to visit several of these remarkable caves personally, including going inside two of them. This lecture takes us on a journey to three of these remarkable sites: Font de Gaume, Lascaux, and Chauvet. The images you will see we can relate to; however, can we relate to why these images existed at such a distant time in our human cultural history?

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Gems at the J | Back-to-School Movies

| FRI, AUG 07, 2026

BACK TO SCHOOL Film Series with Ruth Anolik. We will start each session with an introduction the film with light refreshments, screen the film and then finish up with a…

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Gems at the J | Mahjong Welcome Back Lunch

| FRI, AUG 07, 2026

Come join us as we welcome in the new year with our MahJong Community! Lunch will be from 12-1pm, MahJong play will start at 1pm.

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Gems at the J | Trip to Just In Time on Broadway

| FRI, AUG 07, 2026

We are heading to NYC to see Just In Time on Broadway. Don’t miss two time Tony Award nominee Jeremy Jordan (The Great Gatsby, Newsies) in Just In Time, the…

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Gems at the J | Mahjong Lessons

| FRI, AUG 07, 2026

Join our engaging classes to learn the rules, strategies, and social fun of this classic tile game. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to sharpen your skills, our welcoming sessions…

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