Note: This is not an exhaustive list of all fall happenings. Some programs are still in the works and all details are subject to change, so keep up with programs and news on this website.
With kids back in school and pumpkin spice products filling the shelves of our favorite retailers, fall can’t be too far off. “Because it’s been so busy here with summer camps, nonstop pool time, and so much other activity, a lot of us might want to assume that the pace will ease up a bit with the new season,” says Chief Experience Officer Shannon Brasovan.
“But the pace here at The J is rarely slow,” she explains. “By the time autumn officially arrives on September 22, we’ll be well into the coming season’s programming.”
Keep reading to learn about the art, writing, and Yiddish classes we’re planning, plus mahjong, a fitness challenge, the fourth season of Southern Jewish Voices, and themed sessions of Questions With the Rabbi. And what’s that you might have heard about a quiz show?
JEWISH-THEMED PROGRAMS
‘That’s So Jewish’ live!
Even though it won’t hit Pizitz Auditorium until November 6, the traveling That’s So Jewish quiz show, made possible in part by the Epsman Fund at the Birmingham Jewish Foundation, just might be our most entertaining event of the season. Created by comedian Eitan Levine, That’s So Jewish celebrates Jewish culture with humor and pride. Part trivia and part comedy, the show will feature two Jewish comedians along with our very own Andy Saag in a hilarious competition of Jewish trivia and culture. Get your tickets today!
Mensch & Mingle
Join us for drinks, connection, and conversation as we spotlight local organizations making a difference. Meet others who are passionate about similar work, learn about the nonprofit’s mission, and hear from Jewish community members who are connected with the featured groups.
The first session, on September 4, will focus on Greater Birmingham Ministries through the eyes of Rev. Carolyn Foster, community coordinator for the organization, and board member Karen Weinrib.
Southern Jewish Voices
Showcasing stories about Jewish life in Birmingham and around the South through interviews conducted in front of a live audience, our popular SJV program is now entering its fourth season with:
- September 17: Criminal defense attorney and author Richard Jaffe
- November 12: Florina Newcomb, interim CEO of the Birmingham Jewish Federation
- December 17: The Pizitz family (Richard Sr., Richard Jr., and Andrew)
Questions With the Rabbi
Join Rabbi Yossi Friedman for open conversations about all things Jewish. This season we’ll take a closer look at a variety of themes (12:30-1:30 p.m.):
- September 9: “Exploring Good & Evil” — Free will, evil inclination, morality, and temptation
- November 11: “Chosen People?” — What chosen-ness means in Jewish thought: privilege, responsibility, misunderstanding, and modern perspectives.
- December 9: “Jewish Identity in a Christian Culture”
Yiddish
Join instructor Rabbi Yossi Friedman for a four-week lighthearted yet engaging introduction to the language, culture, and humor that shaped Jewish life for centuries. In this course, you’ll learn common words and phrases, explore the language’s history, and discover how it continues to influence modern speech.
‘Honor Our Parents’ Shabbat services
All ages are welcome to attend these Friday (11 a.m.) services at The J that help you wind down and prepare for the Sabbath. They are co-hosted with Collat Jewish Family Services (RSVP for complimentary lunch):
- August 29 with Rabbi Friedman
- September 12 with Rabbi Wright
- October 24. with Rabbi Henkin
- November 7 with Rabbi Friedman
- December 19 with Rabbi Wright
I LOVE THE J!
We’ll kick off a whole week of great activities with an “I Love The J!” open house community extravaganza on September 14. Stay tuned for details…
ARTS, GAMES, & TECH
Explorations in Art
Starting in September, our new four-week creative series will introduce you to a variety of artistic styles, including oil and chalk pastels, acrylics, collage, and watercolors.
Memoir writing
Explore life stories through guided writing exercises, group sharing, and supportive feedback to inspire connection, self-expression, and a sense of l’dor v’dor | legacy through storytelling.
Mahjong
Mahjong is on a roll nationwide, and we’re here for all your mahjong needs. New to the game? While it might look complicated at first glance, our beginner classes taught by Dawn Holloway will get you on track in no time. Separate sessions start in September and November (just select the links to sign up).
In addition to mahjong classes, we will continue with our open-play times Tuesdays 5-7 p.m. and Thursdays 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Tech help
In partnership with the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s Office of Service Learning and Undergraduate Research, The J is excited to offer a helpful course to support members with using smartphones and other technology.
Each class will include a short lesson on a specific topic, followed by time to ask questions or get help with your own devices. RSVP for free.
FITNESS
Fall Into Fitness
Renew your motivation with consistent movement habits and personalized progress tracking through our InBody Challenge plus Fitness Bingo:
InBody Challenge August 18-September 28 | $45
- Includes three InBody scans:
- Baseline scan – set your starting point
- Optional midpoint scan – check your progress halfway
- Final scan – see results after six weeks
- Weekly nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle tips sent to your email
Fitness Bingo
August 18-September 8 | FREE
- Pick up a Bingo card in group fitness classes or at the front desk.
- Complete activities → Score Bingo → Enter raffle
- Multiple entries = more chances to win
- Prizes include: Free InBody scan packages, a free month of membership, and gift cards