Join us for some fresh talent at the JCC!  Jacob Bernz and David Bernz are a son-father duo from Beacon who have been performing throughout the Hudson Valley for many years. Jacob is known as a prolific and talented songwriter and David is also known for his tribute to The Weavers and for producing Grammy award winning CDs for Pete Seeger. Together they sing original material and new versions of older tunes blending modern and traditional sounds.

Band Info:

https://www.jacobbernz.com/

(BUY TICKETS HERE: https://www.scemusic.org/event-details/monticellos-two-worlds-sherman)

This evocative program bridges the divide between the plantation’s salon and its slave quarters, bringing the complex, intertwined soundscape of early America to life.

Curated by acclaimed violinist, fiddle player and raconteur Paul Woodiel, and featuring Craig Edwards, performing artist and teaching musician specializing in American roots music and traditional instruments. (https://www.fiddlecraig.com). Also Susan Rotholz (fife, flute), Eliot Bailen (cello and guitar) and other special guests.

Thomas Jefferson’s hilltop estate of Monticello, where intellect, ambition, and contradiction once coexisted, was the home to a lesser-known dimension of his world: his deep and enduring relationship with music. An accomplished amateur violinist, Jefferson believed music to be essential to the human spirit, a companion to reason and a refinement of the mind. This evening’s program draws from the very repertoire he admired—elegant works of the European tradition that echoed through the rooms of his home, reflecting both his personal tastes and the cultural aspirations of a young nation looking outward for artistic identity.

Yet, beyond the parlor walls of Monticello lay other powerful musical currents. The sounds of the enslaved African community across the property formed a parallel and profoundly influential musical world, and its collision with the social music and dance traditions of the oppressors, created  new forms that would forever shape the trajectory of American music in the 250 years which have followed. It is in that intersection that we find the early stirrings of a distinctly American voice—complex, layered, and inseparable from the full truth of its history.

Tickets $30. Children ages 16 and under free.

Join us for a showing of the film "Four Winters." This film by Julia Mintz outlines the story of Jewish partisan resistance and bravery during WWII. A must see film for all!

Suggested Donation at the Door | $10

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FILM SYNOPSIS 

“All I owned was my camera, a leopard coat, and a grenade in case of capture...the pillow was the rifle, the walls were the trees and the sky was the roof,” says partisan Faye Schulman. Over 25,000 Jewish partisans fought back against the Nazis and their collaborators from deep within the forests of WWII’s Eastern Europe, Ukraine and Belarus. Against extraordinary odds, they escaped Nazi slaughter, transforming from young innocents to courageous resistance fighters. Shattering the myth of Jewish passivity, these last surviving partisans tell their stories of resistance in FOUR WINTERS, revealing a stunning narrative of heroism and resilience.

FOURWINTERSFILM.COM

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NEW YORK TIMES – Nicholas Rapold 

“…AN ENDURING WARNING AMID TODAY’S GLOBAL STRUGGLE WITH AUTHORITARIAN FORCES.”

JEFFREY LYONS – Film Critic 

“EASILY ONE OF THE BEST FILMS OF THE YEAR” 

TABLET MAGAZINE – Marjorie Ingall 

"A MUST-SEE HOLOCAUST MOVIE (NO, REALLY)...‘FOUR WINTERS’ is a documentary with suspense, humor, and zero sentimentality…" 

 Ms. MAGAZINE – Carrie Baker 

"…FROM EMPATHY TO AWE… poignant, deeply reflective, and sometimes shockingly funny…" 

Join us for a special tribute concert to music legend Bob Dylan!

The Hambones

For the past 15 years, we’ve been on a musical journey, captivating audiences with our diverse styles. Our extensive range of songs spans across Country, Americana, R&B, Pop, and Classic Rock, ensuring there’s something for everyone in our performances. We take pride in offering unique experiences through our specialty shows. Whether it’s bringing the lively spirit of Irish music to festivals or dedicating an entire evening to the timeless songs of Bob Dylan, our goal is to create memorable moments for our listeners. Our dedication to music extends beyond live performances. We’ve released three albums of original work, each reflecting our passion and creativity. At The Hambones, our mission is simple: to deliver an unforgettable experience filled with great music, a touch of nostalgia, and perhaps even some new favorite songs. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a new listener, we can’t wait to share our music with you!

The Poet Who Inspired Us

Bob Dylan’s music has inspired countless artists around the world. But for The Hambones, Dylan’s profound influence runs deep. Known for their exceptional tribute performances, The Hambones take audiences on a musical journey through Dylan’s storied career, showcasing the timeless essence of his music with a unique spin. From his folk roots to his electric innovations, the band brings new life to classic songs in a way only they can

A night to both listen to and share poetry relating to the seasons of becoming - Spring & Summer!

Featured Poets

• Cindy Davis

• Sam Cross

• Sandy Carlson

• Amber Vlangas

Featured Musicians

• Bernie Kaplan

• Jeremy Stone

• Christopher Louis

• Dan Lyon

Event Details

• Featured Poet Readings with Live Musical Accompaniment

• Open Mic Poetry

• Light Refreshments | BYOB Venue

The Chase Returns to the JCC in Sherman with High-Energy Night of Crowd Favorites on May 30th

SHERMAN, CT – Get ready for another unforgettable night of live music as The Chase, Fairfield County’s premier five-piece band, returns to the JCC in Sherman on Saturday, May 30, at 7 PM.

Known for their unique take on rock, folk, and soft rock classics, The Chase is showcasing a dynamic set featuring timeless favorites, along with some original songs from their debut album Range.

With a lineup of experienced musicians and powerful vocal harmonies, The Chase is celebrated for their meticulous attention to detail and their ability to bring high-energy performances to every show. Audiences can expect to hear beloved yet rarely performed classics from Simon & Garfunkel, Fleetwood Mac, Billy Joel, Coldplay, Dave Matthews Band, Crosby, Stills & Nash, Linda Ronstadt, Dire Straits, The Beatles, Supertramp, Collective Soul, and more.

Meet The Chase:

● Ryan Weber (vocals, guitar, bass) – Connecticut native and seasoned singer-songwriter with a knack for blending rock and pop influences.

● Rob Stagno (electric & acoustic guitar, mandolin, vocals) – A versatile musician with over 20 years of experience spanning multiple styles, from gypsy jazz to intricate acoustic arrangements. His musicality and technical skill bring a unique depth to The Chase’s sound.

● Kevin Bailie (piano, keyboards, vocals) – A veteran cover band performer and classic rock aficionado with a love for Billy Joel.

● Susan Siegel (vocals) – A powerhouse singer with a rich history in musical theatre, symphony performances, and cabaret shows.

● Andrew Neil (drums) – A dynamic drummer with over two decades of experience across multiple genres, bringing energy and precision to every performance.

This return performance at the JCC in Sherman is a must-see event for local music lovers. Whether you come to hear your favorite classics brought to life or to catch a few originals, The Chase promises a night of exceptional musicianship, engaging performances, and plenty of great music.

Sherman School Jazz at the JCC

Friday, May 22nd at 6:00PM

This event is free, donations greatly appreciated!

Featuring students, faculty and alumni from the Sherman School's Jazz program! Dont miss out on the jazziest night of the year!

Join us for an afternoon of great music and even better conversation!

Former Broadway conductor and music director, and finalist in the 2024 Boston International Piano Competition, Jeremy Stone will present an interactive piano performance featuring pieces from Beethoven to Chopin and beyond. Discussion will follow each piece as audience members share their impressions of the emotion expressed by the music.

Come for the music…enjoy the conversation!

$10 | Suggested Donation at the Door

The Clams will be re visiting the "Soul of the 60's and 70's"  celebrating the best of Motown and classic R & B. And yes, the Beatles,  "Abbey Road Medley"

With special guests:

Don Lowe (opener)

Bobbi O'Connor

& Local legend Mike Rizzuto on Bari Saxophone!

Jazz alla Strada is a jazz guitar duo, playing jazz and popular music that is both familiar and entertaining.  Drawing on standards from the Great American Songbook, gypsy jazz and modern arrangement of popular music, the group presents a lively program that leaves audiences satisfied.  Chances are you’ll recognize the vast majority of the songs.

Menu

• Chianti Braised Short Rib Ragu w/ Pappardelle

• Springtime Caprese Grilled Chicken

• Campanelle Primavera

• Grilled Eggplant Gratin

• Farmer’s Market Salad w/ Balsamic Vinaigrette

• Coffee, Tea, & Assorted Desserts

Join us for a fantastic evening of live original music and unique covers from Potter's Field!

Sponsored by Kenny & Elaine Litwack!

Members:

Adam Carley, Janet Taylor, Jake Tolson and Steven Trinchillo! 

For nearly fifteen years these local musicians have been playing for audiences throughout Litchfield and Fairfield Counties and beyond. Their original music and unique versions of cover songs have a soulful vibe, complimented by some of the best vocal harmonies you’ll ever hear live! Their variety of styles will have the audience listening intently at times and later on up dancing to the groove. Their music and stage presence create a fun, positive experience. Potter's Field is sure to make everyone feel good and have a great time. 

This concert will feature guest percussionist Gary Fiandra, as well as members of the Sherman Middle School Band! These young musicians are sure to impress you with their skills! It's going to be a great evening!

Influences:

The Beatles, Neil Young, The Indigo Girls, Dave Matthews, James Taylor, The Grateful Dead, Fleetwood Mac and many more.

An afternoon of Tapas and Sangria! Join cooking instructor Barbara Morse for an engaging cooking demo featuring delicious tapas and seasonal sangria over ice! No experience required for this upbeat, and friendly afternoon of instruction and inspiration!

Menu:

Olive and Manchego Puff Pastry Empanaditas

Tangy, creamy filling features sun-dried tomatoes and anchovies encased in crisp pastry

Patatas Bravas

Golden brown fingerling potatoes with Easy Aioli Sauce

Albondigas

Tiny beef meatballs in a Rioja Tomato Sauce

Tortillitas de Bacalao

Spanish Cod Fritters with Salsa Roja

Avocado, Orange and Almond Salad

Features oil cured olives, tomatoes and shaved Manchego

Sugar & Spice Caramel Tortilla Sundaes

Crispy tortilla shells with vanilla ice cream topped with Spiced Homemade Caramel Sauce and Marcona Almonds

Seasonal Sangria over Ice

IMPORTANT 1924 SILENT FILM RESTORED, TOURS NORTH AMERICA WITH LIVE MUSIC BY TWO RENOWNED AND UNIQUE MUSICIANS. PERFORMANCE  AT JCC IN SHERMAN ON 4/17/26.

In East and West, Molly Picon, star of 1920s Yiddish theater, plays the daughter of a rich, assimilated American who is invited to a family celebration in an Eastern European shtetl. Though her brash behavior alienates her from the locals, she is admired by a shy orthodox Talmudic scholar. Molly realizes too late that, in the course of a wedding that she thinks is a joke, she has actually been married. This entertaining comedy, which like many works of Yiddish cinema has only survived in fragmentary versions, was reconstructed by the Filmarchiv Austria.  East and West was unlike any previous Jewish film. E. G. Fried, a Viennese (and presumably Jewish) newspaperman, began his favourable review by confessing the he ordinarily went out of his way to avoid those “badly costumed, ridiculously sentimental” Jewish-subject films which, most likely produced by Otto Kreisler, were “permeated with pogroms, Sabbath tales, and all manner of poorly acted nonsense.” But East and West, to which Fried was drawn solely on the basis of Picon’s reputation, was something else. This film “breathes true Jewish character," even though “it does not satisfy – one might say, thank God – high literary expectations.   (84 min.)

The film has been newly restored by Filmarchiv, Austria with an original score by master silent film pianist Donald Sosin and violinist Alicia Svigals, the world’s foremost exponent of the klezmer fiddle (klezmer is the traditional music of East European, Yiddish-speaking Jews). 

The duo are now touring and performing live with the film in ‘cine-concerts’ around the world. 

ARTIST BIOS:

Alicia Svigals and Donald Sosin have been bringing audiences to their feet throughout the US and Europe with their unique and stirring violin and piano scores for Jewish-themed silent films. Sosin is one of the world’s top silent film musicians, and Svigals is the world's leading klezmer violinist and a founder of the Grammy-winning Klezmatics.  After meeting at a silent film festival in Italy, the two soon recorded their first original score for the 1923 German film The Ancient Law.

Violinist/composer Alicia Svigals is the world's leading klezmer fiddler and a founder of the Grammy-winning Klezmatics.  She has performed with and written for violinist Itzhak Perlman, and has worked with the the Kronos Quartet, playwrights Tony Kushner and Eve Ensler, poet Allen Ginsburg, Robert Plant and Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin, Debbie Friedman and Chava Albershteyn. Svigals was awarded a Foundation for Jewish Culture commission for her original score to the 1918 film The Yellow Ticket, and is a MacDowell fellow. With jazz pianist Uli Geissendoerfer, she recently released Beregovski Suite , a recording of contemporary interpretations of klezmer music from a long-lost Soviet Jewish archive. Her CD Fidl (1996) reawakened klezmer fiddle tradition. Her newest CD is Beregovski Suite: Klezmer Reimagined, with jazz pianist Uli Geissendoerfer - an original take on long-lost Jewish music from Ukraine.

Pianist/composer Donald Sosin grew up in Rye, New York and Munich, and has performed his scores for silent films, often with his wife, singer/percussionist Joanna Seaton, at Lincoln Center, MoMA, BAM, the National Gallery; and major film festivals in New York, San Francisco, Telluride, Hollywood, Pordenone, Bologna, Shanghai, Bangkok, Berlin, Vienna, Moscow, and Jecheon, South Korea. He records for Criterion, Kino, Milestone and Flicker Alley, and his scores are heard frequently on TCM. Sosin has had commissions from MoMA, the Chicago Symphony Chorus, the San Francisco Chamber Orchestra and the Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra. He lives in rural Connecticut with his family.

At this event, help to solve a dark mystery while enjoying a delicious meal by local chef Lori Hendricks Bechtold!

Menu:

• Mediterranean Mezze Platter w Tzatziki / Hummus & Baba Ganoush/ Kalamata Olives/ Feta/ Grape Leaves & Assorted Veggies

• Sumac & Lemon Grilled Chicken

• Zatar Spiced Lamb & Beef Keftedes

• Saffron Basmati Rice

• Orzo/ Chick Pea/ Cucumber & Tomato Salad w Dill

• Spring Greens w Shaved Veg / Falafel Crumbles / Pita Breads & Chips

• Baklava Bites & Neiman Marcus Cake___

In the New England town of Old Darienwich, someone has been murdered. With your help, we solve the crime EVERY TIME! 

Experience a unique, totally improvised story based on your suggestions. You pick the victim and find the murderer!

In this 90-minute improvised production,  you will:

• Meet the characters

• Help interrogate the suspects

• Experience key scenes leading up to the murder

• Learn about their motives

• Identify the clues

• Find the killer

For the best experience, learn about the town of Old Darienwich and its residents here! https://www.cluedunnit.live/

Interested in learning how to bake bread but never had the chance?

Please join David Schwartzbaum for a class on how to make bread.  David will provide hands-on instructions for a no-knead focaccia that is easy to make, virtually fool proof, and absolutely delicious.  No prior bread making experience is needed (or kneaded).   Participants will be provided all required ingredients and kitchen tools.  

Space is limited, and spots will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Early registration is recommended to ensure your place in the class.

David, a semi-retired corporate lawyer, has been baking bread and teaching bread-making for more than 10 years. During COVID, David taught on-line bread-making classes to his law firm colleagues. David and his wife Rena purchased a home in Brookfield in 2019 and have lived here full-time since last summer.  They can be frequently found enjoying events at the JCCS when they are not busy shoveling snow.  David is pleased to be volunteering his time for this class to bring the joy of bread-making to the JCC in Sherman community.  

JCCS Members can register NOW! Non-Member registration opens 3/01!

Supper and Standards
featuring

Christopher Louis — vocals, trombone

Sabrina Mason — vocals

TJ Thompson — piano

Niles Spaulding — bass

James Allen — drums

Steven Golub — saxophone

Enjoy a buffet-style supper prepared by local chef Lori Hendrick, followed by an evening of jazz standards.

Menu:

• Creole Salmon en Croute

• Chicken Ettouffe

• Jambalaya ( Vegetarian)

• Maque Choux

• Baby Greens w Shaved Veggies

• Bananas Foster Bread Pudding

Christopher Louis

A jazz vocalist and trombonist with over three decades of experience, Christopher Louis is a retired U.S. Navy musician who has performed on stage and screen for millions throughout the United States, Europe, and Africa. He is a strong advocate for music as a force for peace.

Sabrina Mason

Sabrina Mason is a vocalist and pianist who studied music and audio engineering at Western Connecticut State University. A versatile jazz singer, she is known for her warm tone, expressive phrasing, and natural sense of swing.

TJ Thompson

A jazz pianist and composer with decades of performance experience, TJ Thompson has appeared at the Kennedy Center with Betty Carter’s Jazz Ahead and been featured on NPR’s Branford Marsalis Jazz Set. He has worked with artists including Mel Tormé, Ed Thigpen, Dave Liebman, and Koko Taylor.

Niles Spaulding 

Niles Spaulding is a graduate of the Western Connecticut State University jazz program. A versatile bassist and private instructor known for his strong time, musical sensitivity, and adaptability across all musical styles, he is in high demand throughout the Northeast.

James Allen
James Allen is a professional percussionist whose performance experience spans Broadway, jazz, and global music traditions. A versatile drummer and composer, his playing reflects a wide range of influences, blending formal training with a deep passion for frame drumming, body percussion, and rhythm-driven storytelling.

Steven Golub

This show will feature tenor saxophonist Steven Golub, who is a well-known veteran performer on the New York scene, playing music spanning multiple genres including, jazz, blues, R&B and classic soul. Steve regularly performs at top New York city clubs including the Red Rooster and Harlem Shake.

Failure to Launch is a term often used to describe young adults who seem unable to move forward into independent adult life. In this talk, psychiatrist Jeremy R. Mack, M.D. looks beyond labels to explore the psychological and relational forces that can stall development. Drawing on decades of clinical experience, he examines how family dynamics, expectations, anxiety, and unspoken emotional loyalties can quietly interfere with independence, motivation, and agency. The talk is designed for parents, educators, and community members seeking a deeper understanding of why capable young people can feel so profoundly stuck—and what helps growth resume.

• 3o min lecture

• 30 min Q/A

Jeremy R. Mack, M.D. is a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist in private practice in New York City and in Sherman. He did his residencies in adult and child psychiatry at the Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York, and has held faculty and leadership positions at Mount Sinai and the NYU–Bellevue Hospital, where for many years he was the head of the child psychiatry clinic. He has spent decades working with children, adolescents, and families and has talked and written on ADHD, elective mutism, childhood schizophrenia, the perception of time and space, claustrophilia, Primo Levi and the Holocaust, the mind-brain connection, the conduct of psychotherapy, and family dynamics. He is the author of Phantoms of the Hotel Meurice:A Guide to the Holocaust in Paris, which won a starred review from Kirkus.  Dr. Mack will talk about the causes of failure to launch and measures to deal with it. 

Join us for our annual comedy night! A night full of laughs with Tayler Yarish, Dillon Krause, Rachel Lenihan, & host Brian Elberg!

Dillon Krause is a comedian based out of New York City. He is a regular at The Comic Strip Live, Q.E.D., and High Line Comedy Club, and was a selection for the 2025 Don’t Tell Comedy Competition. He also performed in the Boston Comedy Festival, World Series of Comedy, and Hell Yes Fest.

Rachel Lenihan is a NYC based stand-up comedian who performs internationally and is currently a regular in the NYC scene performing at New York Comedy Club, QED, and The Comic Strip. Aside from being a comedian for the past 10 years, Rachel was a Writer for the latest season of The Chris Gethard Show on TruTv. In 2021, Rachel was  featured in Metropolitan Magazine as a talented young comedian for her dry absurdist humor. 
She is also a visual artist and has an original artwork displayed in Carrot Top’s Green room in Vegas.

Tayler Yarish is a stand-up comedian based out of New York City. He is the co-host of the weekly podcast HeHeHe with Steven Rogers and Peter Wong. Tayler can be seen nightly at various clubs across New York City.When he’s not headlining his own shows, he can be seen featuring for Kathleen Madigan and Steven Rogers. His comedy has been featured in the New York Comedy Festival as well as with Nateland Entertainment.

Brian Elberg is a comedian from New York City. Much of his comedy draws from his experience as a high school math teahcer.

Join NYC duo Norman (Real Stormin) Zamcheck (composer, vocalist, keyboard) & Andrew Livingston (upright bass), ⅔ of Bride of Science, for an acoustic concert described as upbeat, unique, & eclectic, featuring a humorous & folk feel.

The group, ​​Bride of Science, is the acoustic outlet of pianist composer Norman (Real Stormin) Zamcheck's prodigious songwriting outlet. - 800 compositions & counting! Norman Zamcheck & Andrew Livingston, ⅔ of Bride of Science will perform as a duo at the JCC Saturday February 28th at 7pm.

Bride of Science is a nearly half century collaboration between multi-guitarist Mat Kastner and Norm Zamcheck. College classmates, they met sophomore year, traveled southward after graduation with an eclectic rock band called “Milkweed,” and continued to jam together over the years. They had their Nashville debut at Douglass Corner Cafe in 2023. Over the years Mat, whose specialty is bluegrass and folk, has lent his gifts to nearly all Norm’s songs, and has contributed to nearly all of Norm’s 8 album releases over the past decade. Accompanying them is Andrew Livingston, on upright bass. The trio is named after one of their songs, a ditty loosely based on "Frankenstein" by Mary Shelly, and also Norm's mother, wife of a world renowned scientist.

Band info: realstorminnormanband.carbonmade.com

Music: https://realstorminnorman1.bandcamp.com/album/bride-of-science

It's almost Purim.

Do you know where your hamentaschen are (or where they will be coming from)?

Join us please, We cannot pre-Purim party without you.

And that is what this will be: A "pre-party".

Friday, February 27 @5:30pm

@Temple Sholom

What to expect:

A Red & White Wine with Bleu Cheese Oneg; thematically-appropriate cocktails, treats, and of course that all-American and all-Persian favorite:

PURIM BINGO!

And if you are thinking:

"I haven't a thing to wear!"

Just put on some red, white, and blue and you'll fit right in!

Shabbat Zachor Services will begin at 6:30pm ... join us for the pre-Purim festivities beginning at 5:30pm and/or the Kabbalat Shabbat service!

Menu

Beef Bourguignon

Chicken Au Poivre

Parisienne Potatoes

Ratatouille

Winter Greens Salad W/Tarragon Dijon Vinaigrette

Baguettes/ Butter

Dessert

Chocolate Mousse Tart W/Framboise

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The Artists:

Born at the Sherman Song Swap nearly 20 years ago, The Red Dirt Girls (RDG) are all about harmonies. Inspired by the classic trio work of Emmy Lou Harris, Linda Ronstadt, and Dolly Parton, as well as Red Molly and the Wailin’ Jennys, these neighbors got together for the sheer joy of singing.

Susy Marker and Missy Alexander trade off on the lead vocals and high harmonies. They are the songwriters of the group, crafting lyrics that are sometimes poignant, sometimes funny, and often both. Pat Walker is the chief arranger, with a perfect ear, a passion for the unexpected, and a smoky bass line.

A night to both listen to and share poetry relating to the season of solitude - Winter!

Featured Poets

• Cindy Davis

• Sam Cross

• Sandy Carlson

• Amber Vlangas

• Mike Pugh

Featured Musicians

• Bernie Kaplan

• Mike Latini

• George Mallas

• Dave Goldenberg

Event Details

• Featured Poet Readings with Live Musical Accompaniment

• Open Mic Poetry

• Light Refreshments | BYOB Venue

Join us for a night of songs from folk legends Peter, Paul, & Mary!

Unbroken Glass, & the friends they will bring with them, are sure to do the songs you love justice at this tribute concert!

BYOB Venue!

Join us for a delicious dinner from caterer Lori Hendricks-Bechtold and stay for music from New Milford High School student Liam Cooley and for local musicians New Middle Class!

NEW MIDDLE CLASS

Playfully serious, heartfelt and slightly bent middle class acoustic pop. The award-winning music of Barbara Borok and Mike Borok has been played on over 60 radio stations world-wide. They were grand prizewinners in the Music To Life song contest at the prestigious Kerrville Folk Festival, and were featured in the Emerging Artists Showcase at the 2023 Falcon Ridge Folk Festival.  Most recently, Mike won first place in the 2024 Music for Humanity Songwriting Contest.

NMC appeared in the both 2024 and 2025 Sherman Opry concerts at the Sherman playhouse, and have played at two previous dinner/concert events at the JCC in Sherman.  The food was outstanding both times!

This concert will be the Connecticut debut of their new album, “Prehistoric” – a collection of previously unreleased songs from the years before their 1999 self-titled album.  Something for everyone: folk, blues, country, funk and rock.

"Great melodic songs, full of warmth, wit and truly delightful and surprising turns of phrase." - Fast Folk

“This classy duo clearly knows how to make a song work on all levels...The vocals here are superb... Here are some lovely personal stories, some social commentary... It's easy to understand why these songs win awards." - SoundBytes

Music & videos at newmiddleclass.com and streaming on all platforms.

Liam Cooley

Liam Cooley, a junior at New Milford High School, began playing acoustic guitar in 2022. Often described as an “old soul,” he draws inspiration from singer-songwriters across generations. His musical influences stretch from the soulful sounds of the ’60s to the poetic ballads of today, creating a distinctive blend that resonates with audiences of all ages. Liam is grateful for the JCC community, where he gained his first on-stage experience performing at Open Mic Nights. Most recently, he showcased his artistry by winning the NMHS Talent Show, further cementing his place as a rising musician to watch.

Menu:

Char Siu Grilled Chicken

Maple Soy Glazed Cedar Plank Salmon

Sesame Noodles

Winter Veg Stir Fry w Garlic Ginger Sauce

Fortune Cookies / Assorted Cookies

Widowhood and Other Altered States takes us on a tour of life in the 70-plus lane. Though there’s grief, loss of loved ones and physical abilities, and isolation, the good news is life remains as absurd as ever. What do you do with hundreds of leftover napkins from a bereavement gathering?  Or well-meaning advice you didn’t want?  Or cemetery decisions? Of course there’s sadness and confusion as to how to cope alone, but widowhood is another way of being, and as with anything else, we learn.  How do you buy a car that accommodates arthritic knees, but – like you - still has some pizzazz?  And the dating scene is as head-shakingly comical as it is at any age (spoiler: men don’t seem to get much better). When Guttman finds herself assailed by it all, her wry wit will show you that you can stay yourself, even in an altered state.

A coming of age book for those who have already aged (and their younger friends).

Format

• Brief interactive discussion of how the book came to be

• Writing humorously about grief and loss, sometimes all you can do is laugh!

• Reading - 1-2 excerpts

• Q & A

• Sale of books, inscribed if desired, 25% discount off regular price

About the Author

Jacqueline Guttman was a flutist and arts educator whose playing and teaching were curtailed by rheumatoid arthritis. Armed with a masters degree in arts administration, she became a concert presenter, arts consultant, choir director and adjunct professor in the NYU arts administration program. Believing in the arts as a vehicle for remaining vital and engaged, upon retirement she founded Arts for Life NJ, which offered participatory programs for older adults in dance, acting, visual arts, and music, until COVID had other ideas.   Although she had written curriculum materials, press releases, grant proposals and even a couple of educational resource books, she never thought of herself as a writer. Guttman began writing regularly to relieve her stress as her husband’s health deteriorated. After he died in 2017, casting about for something to hold her interest, she attended a conference on arts and health, selecting a writing workshop, which was the beginning of a brand new direction. Not having studied writing since Freshman English, she enrolled in a writing critique class at Sarah Lawrence College, moving on to the Hudson Valley Writers’ Center, where she found a wonderfully supportive group of colleagues. And so she started writing essays, which has been part of her life for the past eight years. Her remaining musical connection is the coaching she provides for an amateur trio. Jackie is also involved in a broad spectrum of volunteer activities, but notes that it’s the writing that is now part of her identity, “with a bit of imposter syndrome in the mix,” she says.

Join us as we celebrate Hanukkah together as a community! To celebrate we will feast on some delicious jelly donuts & potato latkes! Feel free to BYOB!

Rabbi Mark Cohn from Temple Sholom in New Milford will be joining us to tell stories of Hanukkah and get everyone in the spirit of the season!

A crowd favorite! The Horsemen ride their reindeer into Sherman for their annual Holiday show and Fundraiser.

Join the Horsemen: David Ray, Mike Latini, Dave Goldenberg and George Mallas at this fun event!

A large portion of the proceeds will be donated to The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation

Please consider bringing an unwrapped toy / gift item.

At this special album release concert George Mallas will share music off of his new album "Within These Walls"

Join us and support George as he shares this new album with the world!

BYOB | Light snacks provided