Get S. M. A. R. T. (Sunday Morning Author Roundtable Talks) It’s Good Clean Fun!
Remember when getting S.M.A.R.T. meant picking up a shoe phone? ☎️
Well, Agent 86 may have had his gadgets, but we’ve got something even better: fascinating speakers, lively conversation, unexpected stories and a few surprises along the way!
Join us for four very different Sunday mornings at Temple Beth Sholom, where you’ll meet engaging speakers, hear their unique perspectives, discover intriguing ideas and enjoy good company along the way. Each speaker brings something different to the conversation—and you won’t want to miss what they have to say!
All S.M.A.R.T. sessions begin at 10 AM, unless otherwise noted below.
SPECIAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY TIME: To make it easier for Religious School families to participate, Amanda Kingloff’s session will begin at 11:30 AM. A small materials fee (TBA) will apply to cover craft supplies.
Read on to see who we have in store!
11/15: MICHAEL KIMMEL:
Who knew the American toy box was so Jewish? Michael Kimmel takes us on a fascinating, fun-filled journey through the surprising Jewish story behind some of America’s most beloved toys. Hear how Jewish immigrant entrepreneurs helped transform childhood into a magical world of toys, fantasy, adventure, and the timeless battle between good and evil—and discover the fascinating stories and people behind it all.
Drawing on his latest book, Playmakers: The Jewish Entrepreneurs Who Created the Toy Industry in America, Kimmel brings these colorful characters and their remarkable stories to life.
2/7: MARK OPPENHEIMER:
Beyond Judy’s Books! 📚 Think you know Judy Blume? Think again! Mark Oppenheimer takes us behind the pages and beyond the books to explore the fascinating, complicated, and sometimes surprising woman behind the literary icon. Hear the stories, influences, and experiences that shaped Judy Blume’s remarkable life and career—and discover a side of this beloved cultural figure you may not know.
Drawing on his newest release, Judy Blume: A Life, Oppenheimer brings Judy Blume’s story to life with insight, warmth, and a compelling storyteller’s perspective.
3/7: SUZANNE GARFINKLE-CROWELL:
Think You Know How to Talk to Your Daughter? Think Again! 💬 Child psychiatrist Suzanne Garfinkle-Crowell draws on her extensive clinical experience to offer parents warm, practical, and eye-opening insights into how today’s young women communicate, think, and navigate the world. She’ll share fresh perspectives on listening more closely, understanding what your daughter may really be saying, and finding meaningful ways to strengthen your connection.
Drawing on insights from her parent guide, Girlhood, Translated: Understanding Young Women in the Age of Therapy Speak, Garfinkle-Crowell brings her expertise directly to the conversation with parents.
4/11: AMANDA KINGLOFF
Get Crafty! ✂️ Bring the whole family and get ready to create, connect, and celebrate! Former Parents magazine Lifestyle Director Amanda Kingloff leads a fun, hands-on Pre-Passover experience designed especially for TBS young families. Kids and grown-ups will work side by side, creating a special project together while exploring Jewish joy, creativity, and the meaning of Passover.
Come ready to roll up your sleeves, get creative, and make memories together! Amanda will lead us through one of the many creative activities featured in her new release, The Art of Jewish Joy: Crafts and Activities for Celebration and Connection—designed to help families bring Jewish celebrations to life and create meaningful connections throughout the year.
Four Sundays. Four authors. Four reasons to get S.M.A.R.T.!!!
One More S.M.A.R.T. Idea! This in-person series is FREE to attend—but if you’d like to help keep the good, clean fun coming, please consider becoming a Get S.M.A.R.T. Sponsor!
Share: