The Alternative Press

The Social Action Committee of Congregation Beth Israel in Scotch Plains sponsored an Intergenerational Talent Show at Norwood Terrace Nursing home in Plainfield on Sunday, April 29. Performers from Congregation Beth Israel and Temple Emanu-El entertained nursing home residents with musical numbers and a Taekwondo demonstration. Participants included (from left): Greta Polonitza; Paige Mankin; Kayla Spector; Josh Wiener; Hannah Margolin; Rebecca Skowron; and Gila Glassel.

“Congregation Beth Israel has been hosting talent shows at area nursing homes for more than ten years,” said Ann Freedman, Social Action Committee co-chair, Congregation Beth Israel.  “The performers love showcasing their talents to such an appreciative audience.  And the nursing home residents enjoy the entertainment and often participate in the show as well,” Freedman said.

For the first time, artwork was also donated to Norwood Terrace as part of the event.   The artwork included several murals and framed paintings that were made by local teenagers at “Come A.L.I.V.E. in the Community,” a day of community service for teens hosted by the Jewish Community Center of Central NJ on April 22. Pictured presenting artwork are (from left): Greta Polonitza, volunteer art teacher and member of Congregation Beth Israel; Isaiah Williams, teen volunteer; Nivana Elrashedy, Director of Therapeutic Recreation, Norwood Terrace; and Lindsay Napchen, JCC Teen Services Director.