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Thursday, April 15

Werner Lecture Fund of Beth El Synagogue in East Windsor. Kosher Simplified Seafood. Part of a series of cooking classes titled ''Generations in the Kitchen.'' The classes will be taught by a parent and their child. Classes include all supplies and culinary treats. 50 Maple Stream Road, East Windsor. 7-8:30 p.m. Fee is $10 per class or $25 for all three classes. Information or to register, (609) 443-4454.

Saturday, April 17

Freehold Jewish Center. Comedy Magic Entertainment and Gift Auction. Presenting the comedy magic of Tom Durnin, as seen on NBC's ''America's Got Talent,'' ''Late Night with Conan O’Brien,'' The Borgata in Atlantic City, the Catskills. 59 Broad St., Freehold. 8:45 p.m. $20 per person. RSVP, (732) 462-0254, or e-mail to SisterhoodFJC@gmail.com.

Sunday, April 18

Monmouth Torah Links. An Evening of Sushi and Spirit, featuring Rebbetzin Esther Jungreis. Jungreis is a world renowned lecturer and has authored four best-selling books, including her latest release ''Life Is A Test.'' Enjoy a lavish sushi buffet followed by an exciting presentation. The event will take place at the Marlboro Fire Company, 5 South Main St., Marlboro. Reservations suggested, $18 in advance, $25 at the door. Information, call (732) 377-9551 or email to info@monmouthtorahlinks.org.

East Brunswick Jewish Center and The Men's Club of East Brunswick Jewish Center. Mayor Mike Halfacre (R) will be speaking on Israel followed by a Question and Answer session. 511 Ryders Lane, East Brunswick. 9 a.m. Information call Steven Harkavy at (732) 613-1322 or info@ebjc.org.

Sisterhood of Congregation Beth-El. Fashion show and luncheon. Fashions will be from Dress Barn's spring collection and will be modeled by Sisterhood members. Several vendors will be there with jewelry (cash or check only), beauty, fitness, food, and cooking products. 91 Jefferson Blvd., Edison. 1:30 p.m. $18. Checks can be made payable to: Sisterhood Congregation Beth-El and should be sent to Judy Yoblick at 8 Meredith Road, Edison, N.J. 08817. Please include names of all people attending as well as their phone numbers. Information, call Judy at (732) 985-3882.

Congregation Ahavat Olam and Beth Am Shalom. ''Service for Holocaust Remembrance.'' Keynote speaker, Professor Judith Vogel. Professor Judith Vogel teaches at Stockton State College. Among her courses, she teaches one entitled, ''Children of the Holocaust.'' The service will include prayers, poems, and a candle lighting by Holocaust survivors. Beth Am Shalom: 400 Carey St., Lakewood. 7 p.m. Open to the public; all are welcome. Information, (732) 363-2800.

Temple Emanu-El. A fascinating opportunity to hear John David Scalamonti speak about his conversion from Catholic Priest to the Jewish faith. His talk will be based on his book, ''Ordained To Be A Jew.'' 100 James St. Edison. 3 p.m. Information, (732) 369-3270.

Mercer Bucks Community. Celebration of Israel’s 62nd Birthday. Food available for purchase. Local synagogues and agencies. Vendors, Israeli art, Judaica, tie-dye. Israeli dancing. Live entertainment. Rider University, 2083 Lawrenceville Road, Lawrenceville. 2-6 p.m. Free. Information, (609) 219-9550.

Jewish Community Center of Middlesex County. ''Broadway Bound.'' A string quartet featuring four musicians of the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra will focus on a variety of Broadway Show music. A dessert reception with the musicians will follow the performance. 1775 Oak Tree Road, Edison. 2:30 p.m. 8 until April 14 and $12 thereafter, space permitting. Register at the JCC. Information, call Sue Horwitz, (732) 494-3232 ext. 603.

Congregation Kehilat Shalom. Congregational and religious school open house. In addition to having the chance to chat with Rabbi Susan Falk, there will be opportunities to observe the religious school in progress as well as mingle with members over bagels and coffee. 253 Belle Mead-Griggstown Road, Belle Mead. 9:30-11:30 a.m. Information or to RSVP, call (908) 359-0420, email robin@ksnj.org, or visit www.ksnj.org.

The Jewish Heritage Museum of Monmouth County. Enameling workshop for children ages 8-13, led by Lauren Druin Griffin and Pat Heaney. Limited to 12 children, this workshop will be held at the Museum. 310 Mounts Corner Dr., Freehold. 2-4 p.m. 10 fee per child for materials. Prior registration is required, (732) 252-6990.

Henry Ricklis Holocaust Memorial Committee of Monroe. Annual Yom HaShoah Observance, honoring Ricklis member Ascher Goldstein for his heroic resistance activities during the war, as well as the bravery he showed during Israel's fight for Independence. His six grandchildren will read an account of his incredible life. Also featuring Drum Cadence and Survivor Processional and Menorah Lighting Ceremony. Keynote address by Marcia Ikonomopoulos, museum director of Kehila Kedosha Janina Synagogue and Museum. Monroe Township High School's Marasco Theatre, 1629 Perrineville Road, Monroe. 1 p.m. Free. Information, contact Nina Wolff at (732) 605-7811 or nwolff0325@aol.com.

L&M Art Gallery. Art Show featuring the works of more than 20 N.J. artists. The artists and gallery will donate 15 percent of the proceeds of purchases to benefit the food pantry of Jewish Family Service of Central N.J. Door prizes. 124 Elmora Ave., Elizabeth. 2-5 p.m. Directions: www.lmartgallery.com. Ample parking in rear of building. Information, (908) 351-2633.

25th Annual Israel Segal Memorial Lecture. ''Beyond the Israel Lobby: American Jews and the Politics of National Security Since 1967,'' lecture by Dr. Julian Zelizer. Dr. Julian Zelizer is Professor of History and Public Affairs at Princeton University. Zelizer received his B.A. at Brandeis University and Ph.D. at The Johns Hopkins University. He is one of the leading figures in the field of American political history and a well known public intellectual. Professor Zelizer is the author and editor of numerous books that examine U.S. political leaders, policies, and institutions since the New Deal. 250 Grove Ave., Metuchen. 10 a.m. Free and open to the public.

Freehold Jewish Center. An Adult Education Program – Film and Falafel. The film is entitled ''The Forgotten Refugees'' and it tells of the contributions of Sephardic Jews to the building of Israel. 59 Broad St., Freehold. 6 p.m. Information, (732) 462-0254 or e-mail to office@freeholdjc.org.

Monday, April 19

Flemington Jewish Community Center. Bingo. Individual cash prizes can be up to $1,000, depending on attendance, so bring your friends. 5 Sergeantsville Road (Route 523 South, across from the police station), Raritan. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. $10 per person. Information, (908) 782-6410.

Tuesday, April 20 BUNWC-Tri County chapter of the Brandeis National Committee. Program on Global Warming. Tina Weishaus, a Global Warming educator, who was trained by former Vice President Al Gore, will present this program at the club's general meeting to be presented at the Hickory Corner Branch Library. 138 Hickory Corner Road, East Windsor. 2 p.m. Free. Information, (609) 298-4515.

Highland Park Conservative Temple-Congregation Anshe Emeth. Jenny & Joseph Lieberman Lectures. Rabbi Yakov R. Hilsenrath will be speaking on ''Not Simply to Survive but to Thrive: The Secret of our Future Success in American Society.'' 201 South Third Ave., Highland Park. 8 p.m. Information, (732) 545-6482.

Sisterhood of Ahavas Achaim and L'Dor V'Dor Hadassah, Young Women of Raritan Valley. Book Swap and Book Sale. Proceeds to benefit the Hadassah Medical Center - The Sarah Wetsman Davidson Tower and the Sisterhood of Ahavas Achaim. Ahavas Achaim, 216 South First Ave., Highland Park. 7:30 p.m. information about donating books, CDs, DVDs, contact Elaine Berlin at (732) 572-2826 to coordinate drop-off; information about the event or to RSVP contact Robin Silver, (732) 745-9655 or Celeste Albert, (732) 236-8486.

East Brunswick Jewish Center (EBJC). Annual Yom Haatzmaout/Yom Hazikaron event. The Yom Hazikaron program will pay tribute to Israel's fallen and will be immediately followed by Yom Haatzmaout celebration of Israel's 62nd anniversary. Participants include EBJC and B'nai Tikvah rabbis and cantors, Shabi Katzir (a famous Israeli Singer/Guitarist), and the EBJC Boy Scout Troop. Celebration will include live music by the Sons of Tikvah band, Israeli audio visual entertainment, dancing, and delicious Israeli food. 511 Ryders Lane, East Brunwick. 7 p.m. Advance purchase $15/person and $45/family. Information and RSVP call EBJC office at (732) 257-7070.

Wednesday, April 21

Jewish Historical Society of Central Jersey. ''Leonard Bernstein: The Political Life of an American Musician.'' Lecture by Professor Barry Seldes, professor of political science at Rider University. He also teaches courses on Musical Expression and Political Culture, and Cultural Politics. His book entitled ''Leonard Bernstein: The Political Life of an American Musician'' was published last year. Anshe Emeth Memorial Temple, 222 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick. 10 a.m. Free and open to the public. Information call the JHSCJ office at (732) 249-4894.

Thursday, April 22

Werner Lecture Fund of Beth El Synagogue in East Windsor. Spring Vegetable Extravaganza. Part of a series of cooking classes titled 'Generations in the Kitchen'. The classes will be taught by a parent and their child. Classes include all supplies and culinary treats. 50 Maple Stream Road, East Windsor. 7-8:30 p.m. Fee is $10 per class or $25 for all three classes. Information or to register, (609) 443-4454.

Friday, April 23

Anshe Emeth Memorial Temple. Shabbat service. Noah Aronson brings his hip and hot Shabbat music for worship and enjoyment. Aronson studied jazz piano and composition at the Berklee College of Music in Boston, while serving as artist-in-residence at Temple Beth Elohim in Wellesley, Mass. At Anshe Emeth, his music will be performed by Cantor Anna West Ott, Makhelat Anshe Emet (the Adult Volunteer Choir), and Shirei Emet (the teen choir). 222 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick. 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, April 24

Temple Sha'arey Shalom. Chai Noon Casino Night. This fun-filled evening will feature blackjack, craps, poker, and roulette run by a casino company with professional dealers, chips, and tables. Players will compete for fabulous gifts baskets overflowing with prizes, goods and services. Saloon snacks and drinks will be served. 78 South Springfield Ave., Springfield. 7:30-midnight. General ''Kin Folk'' entry is $18 per person, admission only. ''Posse'' admission is $36 and includes $100 in chips. ''Deputy'' admission is $90 includes $350 in chips. ''Sheriff'' admission is $136 and includes $750 in chips and your name in the event program. ''Governor'' admission is $250 and includes $2,000 in chips, your name in the program and a table sponsorship. Information, www.shaarey.org.

JCC of Central New Jersey. Toots-rocker Mark Erelli will perform at Split Level Concerts. Erelli hit the ground running when he won the prestigious Kerrville New Folk contest in 1999, joining the ranks of notable past winners including Lyle Lovett and Nanci Griffith. With a musical catalogue that ranges from twangy roots-rock through fingerpicked folk, rollicking blues, Western swing, rockabilly, and even 19th century ballads, Mark Erelli has one of the most impressive and varied reputations in modern roots music. 1391 Martine Ave., Scotch Plains. Doors open at 8:30 p.m.; the concert begins at 9 p.m. Tickets are $20 in advance. Purchase tickets online at www.jccnj.org or contact Simone Klein at (908) 889-8800 ext. 214 or sklein@jccnj.org.

Sunday, April 25

Werner Lecture Fund of Beth El Synagogue in East Windsor. India's Children of Israel featuring Johannes Corley. Ms. Corley was born in Bombay India and is a member of the Bene-Israel Jewish Community in India. She is currently the coordinator, Residue and Analytical Chemistry, IR-4 Headquarters, at Rutgers University. The topic will be ''A 2000+ Year History of the Lost Descendants of Moses and Aaron.'' 50 Maple Stream Road, East Windsor. 2 p.m. Admission is free. Information, (609) 443-4454.

JCC of Central N.J. Adult Child/Parent Brunch with Odessa Klezmer Band. This program is a great opportunity for families to learn about the JCC's senior programming, enjoy time together and be entertained by the award-winning Odessa Klezmer Band who will play a variety of Eastern European, German, Russian, and Middle Eastern polkas and czardas. 1391 Martine Ave., Scotch Plains. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $6 for JCC members and $8 for community participants. Information or to RSVP contact Barbara Weisbart, (908) 889-8800 ext. 207.

Jewish Federation of Greater Middlesex County. Torah Writing program. Help the Jewish Federation of Greater Middlesex County write a Torah for those who risk their lives protecting ours. Military chaplains travel throughout combat zones to serve our troops. Federation wants to ensure they have a Torah to take with them. Join us in writing a ''Torah for Our Troops.'' Pay tribute to the women and men in the military. Two locations and times: Jewish Congregation of Concordia, 1600 Perrineville Road, Monroe. 3 p.m. Also, Student Center of Rutgers University, 126 College Ave., New Brunswick. 7 p.m. Information, (732) 432-7711, ext. 10.

Sisterhood of Temple Sha'arey Shalom. Interactive family workshop with relationship expert Dr. Gilda Carle. ''Building Richer Relationships Between Parents and Kids.'' You'll hear some insightful advice about how to really talk to your kids and strengthen your family dynamics. 78 South Springfield Ave., Springfield. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Information, (973) 379-5387.

Monday, April 26

Mamaloshen. Meeting. Another important topic of interest to the Jewish Community will be moderated by Rabbi Micheal Klein of Congregation Ahavat Olam. All are welcome. Refreshments will follow. Manchester Civic Center, 1 Colonial Dr., Manchester. 1 p.m.

Highland Park Conservative Temple-Cong. Anshe Emeth. Rabbi Eliot Malomet will present ''Classic Texts That Open Your Heart.'' This series will explore texts that combine emotional and intellectual power that have the power to open our hearts. All are welcome. Refreshments. 201 South Third Ave., Highland Park. 8 p.m. No fee for members. $10 for series for non-members. Information, (732) 545-6482.

Tuesday, April 27

Allen and Joan Bildner Center for the Study of Jewish Life. Jews, Converts, and Inquisitors in Medieval Spain: Recent Revelations. According to Paola Tartakoff, professor of Jewish studies and history at Rutgers University, it is less widely recognized that over one hundred years prior to the establishment of the Spanish Inquisition, Jewish converts were already being prosecuted for Judaizing, and Jews were already being accused of attempting to bring converts back to Judaism. Tartakoff will present new research on this ''inquisition before the inquisition,'' focusing on the gripping case of a 14th-century convert from Aragon who accused a group of Jews of pressuring him to return to Judaism. Trayes Hall, Douglass Campus Center, 100 George St., New Brunswick. 7:30 p.m. Information, (732) 932-2033.

The Highland Park Conservative Temple-Congregation Anshe Emeth. ''Jenny & Joseph Lieberman Lectures.'' Rabbi Yakov R. Hilsenrath will be speaking on ''Not Simply to Survive but to Thrive -- The Secret of our Future Success in American Society.'' 201 South Third Ave., Highland Park. 8 p.m. Information, (732) 545-6482.

Wednesday, April 28

Congregation Bnai Tikvah. Susie Fishbein, the author of the ''Kosher By Design'' series, will be coming to Congregation Bnai Tikvah. She will be sharing some dairy delicacies with the group. Come for the demonstration and for the taste testing! 1001 Finnegans Lane, North Brunswick. 7:30 p.m.Tickets are $54 each.Information or to RSVP contact (732) 297-0696.

Thursday, April 29 Werner Lecture Fund of Beth El Synagogue in East Windsor. A Week Night Meal Can be Special. Part of a series of cooking classes titled "Generations in the Kitchen". The classes will be taught by a parent and their child. Classes include all supplies and culinary treats. 50 Maple Stream Road, East Windsor. 7-8:30 p.m. Fee is $10 per class or $25 for all three classes. Information or to register, (609) 443-4454.

Jewish Family & Children's Service of Greater Mercer County. Beyond Time-Out: A Parenting Program. Dr. Beth Grosshans will present a 2-hour detailed teaching session for parents of children ages 3-11 years using her 5-step Ladder Program; a simple, yet highly effective five-step strategy that goes Beyond Time-Out all the way to effectiveness. New Jersey Hospital Association, 760 Alexander Road, Princeton. 7-9 p.m. $10 per person. Information or to RSVP, contact Debra Levenstein at (609) 987-8100 or debral@jfcsonline.org.

April 30-May 2

Highland Park Conservative Temple-Congregation Anshe Emeth. Historic dedication weekend celebration. This special event, ''a time to rejoice and a time to give thanks'' will include Kabbalat Shabbat Services followed by a festive Shabbat meal on Friday, April 30 as well as a Congregational Oneg Shabbat following dinner. Shabbat services on May 1 will include a special symposium presentation under the leadership of Rabbi Eliot Isaac Malomet, congregational rabbi. Kiddush will follow services. The special dedication program will take place on Sunday, May 2 at 9:30 a.m. South Third Ave., Highland Park. Information or reservations, (732) 545-6482.

Saturday, May 1 Anshe Emeth Memorial Temple. Achinoam Nini, known to her fans worldwide as 'Noa', will present her exciting mix of Israeli, American pop, and world music in a concert. East Brunswick Performing Arts Center in the Hammarskjold Middle School, 200 Rues Lane, East Brunswick. 8 p.m. Tickets are $36.00 for adults and $18.00 for children in advance, or $45.00 at the door. Tickets can be purchased at www.aemt.net, or (732) 545-6484.

Ahavas Achim University. Cantor Eric Freeman Of Yeshiva University's Belz School of Jewish Music. Cantor Freeman will lead Kabbalat Shabbat, Maariv, Shacharit, and Mussaf in the Western European style and tradition. Before Mussaf on Shabbat morning, he will elucidate the origins of the synagogue tunes and customs of Western Europe. 216 South First Ave., Highland Park.

Sunday, May 2

Neve Shalom's Israel Awareness Committee, The JCC of Middlesex County, and Ma'a lot (a joint project of the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism and Nefesh B’Nefesh). Lag B’Omer Israeli style with a ''Kumsitz'' at Neve Shalom. Bring your own lawn chairs or blanket as we create our own indoor ''bonfire'' atmosphere. We'll provide a light supper, drinks and dessert. Join in Israeli singing led by Alan Cooper and Israeli dancing led by Elyse Litt. 250 Grove Ave., Metuchen. Cost is $5 per person. Please send your name, phone number, email address and # of guests along with payment to Congregation Neve Shalom, 250 Grove Ave., Metuchen, N.J. 08840 by April 25, and put ''kumsitz'' in the memo line of check. Information, call Linda at (732) 906-0737 or Jennine at (732) 494-3232 ext. 621.

B'nai Sholom/Temple Beth El Foundation. Lag BaOmer concert with the New Jersey Cantors Concert Ensemble. Congregation Torat El / Jersey Shore Jewish Center, 301 Monmouth Road, Oakhurst. 4 p.m. $13, gen. admission; $10, seniors and students. Information or to RSVP, (732) 531-4410.

Axelrod Performing Arts Center. Re-Vital Dance Troupe from Israel. Their thrilling stage show, 'Jerusalem Forever' features sensational dancers, lighting and music! The ensemble has reached unprecedented success in Israel and abroad. 100 Grant Ave., Deal Park. 3 p.m. Portion of the production's proceeds will go to benefit the Jersey Shore Jewish Academy Scholarships. Tickets are $30 adult, $25 seniors, $10 students, $72 family package for 5 seats, and $90 per person for Patrons and includes preferred seating and a special reception following the show. Information or tickets, (732) 531-9100 ext. 142.

Monday, May 3

Highland Park Conservative Temple-Cong. Anshe Emeth. Rabbi Eliot Malomet will present ''Classic Texts That Open Your Heart.'' This series will explore texts that combine emotional and intellectual power that have the power to open our hearts. All are welcome. Refreshments. 201 South Third Ave., Highland Park. 8 p.m. No fee for members. $10 for series for non-members. Information, (732) 545-6482.

Tuesday, May 4

The Colonia Chapter of Hadassah. Musical program by Cantor Jacqueline Shuchat-Marx of Temple Emanuel in Edison will be the featured entertainment. Guests are welcome to attend. Members are requested to bring their filled red tzedakah boxes to the meeting. Congregation Neve Shalom, 250 Grove Ave., Metuchen. Information, call Roxy at (732) 602-1240.

Saturday, May 8

Temple Sha'arey Shalom Religious School. Open house. Families of prospective students entering grades K-3 in Sept., 2010 are welcome to come and learn about the Temple's creative curriculum and registration options. 78 South Springfield Ave., Springfield. 9-10:30 a.m. RSVP to the temple office at (973) 379-5387.

Monday, May 10 Highland Park Conservative Temple-Cong. Anshe Emeth. Rabbi Eliot Malomet will present ''Classic Texts That Open Your Heart.'' This series will explore texts that combine emotional and intellectual power that have the power to open our hearts. All are welcome. Refreshments. 201 South Third Ave., Highland Park. 8 p.m. No fee for members. $10 for series for non-members. Information, (732) 545-6482.

Tuesday, May 11

JCC of Central NJ. Active Adults trip to the Federal Reserve Bank. The tour, which does not require a lot of walking or stair-climbing, includes an introduction to the banking system of the U.S. and a look in the Gold Vault. During the tour, guests will have the opportunity to observe the beautiful architecture of the bank. The trip also includes an hour classroom experience during which participants will learn more about the Federal Reserve System and its role in the U.S. economy. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. $60 for JCC members and $70 for community participants. The cost includes an international buffet lunch at the U.N. Delegates Dining Room. For an additional fee, participants may choose to tour the U.N. after lunch. Information or to RSVP contact Barbara Weisbart, (908) 889-8800 ext. 207.

Roselle-Cranford Chapter of Hadassah. Annual Donor Dinner. The Donor Dinner is a culmination of the Chapter's activities for the year and a celebration of its fundraising efforts and accomplishments. During the evening, the Chapter will hold its annual installation of officers for the 2010/2011 season. Installing officer will be Shelly Mark of Cranford. 6:30 p.m. Temple Beth Ahm Yisrael, 60 Temple Dr., Springfield. Information, (908) 709-8045.

Sunday, May 16

Beth El Synagogue of East Windsor. Lag b'Omer Picnic. Enjoy a BBQ, boating, zip line, arts and crafts, softball game and more. Eagle River Day Camp, 1470 Perrineville Road, Monroe. 12-4 p.m. $11 per person. RSVP no later than May 10 at (609) 443-4454.

Raritan Valley Chapter of Hadassah. Progressive Dinner. The exciting finale and dessert course will be held at the lovely Historic home of Diane and Eric Weinberg on Harrison Ave. Everyone is welcome to this wonderful social evening! Members, friends, singles and couples. 5 p.m. Guests $20 per person or $36 per couple plus a dairy/pareve dessert (kosher food available). For those who host a course in their homes there is no charge. Information call Debbie at (732) 688-4146 after 7 p.m. or e-mail debbieadg@gmail.com.

Sunday, May 23

Congregation Etz Chaim, Monroe Township Jewish Center. A Day of ''Defiance.'' Robert Bielsky, son of the central character of the movie ''Defiance'', will be the guest speaker. 11 Cornell Ave., Monroe.10:30-11 a.m., Registration coffee and tea available); 11 a.m.Showing of film ''Defiance -- The Bielski Partisans." 1:30 –2:15 p.m. dairy lunch; 2:30 A conversation with Robert Bielsky. Contribution $10 (members) and $15 (non-members) For reservations or information, (609) 655-9056 or e-mail harriet9243@gmail.com.

Tuesday, May 25

Toms River Hadassah at Congregation B'nai Israel. A chocolate fantasy evening. Decadent dairy desserts and entertainment by the raconteurs. 1488 Old Freehold Road, Toms River. 7:30 p.m. $25. RSVP or Information, Susan Jacobs (732) 279-0443 or Sandy Ottenberg (732) 505-5953.