FREE adult events for May from the Matawan-Aberdeen Library

Monday, May 7 @ 7 pm – English Conversation

Classes will meet on 5/7, 5/14, and 5/21

Thursday, May 3 @ 11 am – Learn Tai Chi

Come and participate in this meditative form of exercise which is associated with both spiritual and health benefits. This monthly class will be taught by Al Chuderski. No prior experience is needed, just wear comfortable clothing.

Preference will be given to MAPL cardholders.

Monday, May 7 @ 7 pm – Bracco Farms: Organic Farming and Gardening

Five years ago Anthony Bracco and his wife bought a 25- acre farm in the Black Dirt region of Pine Island, NY. Anthony had intended to be a hobby farmer on just an acre growing his family the cleanest produce possible using non-GMO seeds, hand cultivation of weeds, old-fashioned farm equipment, and without chemicals, but these sustainable farming techniques produced a shocking abundance of produce so Bracco Farms was born.

Mr. Bracco will discuss the methods used in organic farming and how they can be applied to small scale backyard vegetable gardening.

Thursday, May 10 @ 1:30 pm – Chair Yoga

Interested in learning yoga, but have difficulty getting down on the floor? Now you too can enjoy all the benefits of yoga without having to get on a mat. You will learn many yoga postures, breathing techniques, meditation and relaxation while seated in a chair. The class will be taught by Danielle Meany, RYT. All levels welcome. No experience or equipment is necessary.

Must be at least 18 years-old and a MAPL cardholder to participate.

Thursday, May 17 @ 7 pm – Hallowed Ground: Putting the Civil War Dead to Rest

750,000 men and women died in the American Civil War, but the tragedy was magnified by disrespectful burial practices where large numbers of bodies were deposited, unidentified, into trenches. Enemy soldiers were frequently not buried at all. This program reviews how after the war, Federal and State governments, aided by large numbers of women, sought to rectify the matter.

This program also covers the issues of Civil War statues and monuments, many of which are the subject of controversy today.

This lecture will be presented by Martin M. Mosho, a retired business executive who taught at Mercer County Community College for nine years. The American Civil War has been a passion of his for over sixty years.

*This program contains information graphic in nature and is not suitable for young children.

Monday, May 21 @ 7pm – The Holiday Talk: Getting to Know Your Family’s History

Each year families gather for holiday events (weddings, graduations, and reunions) and the opportunity for discovering our own roots presents itself. Discover methods to learn about your family’s Ancestral Connections & Traditions through family activities. Learn about the top 3 ways to share your family legacy -- pictures, stories and documents -- with other family members and fellow researchers. This program will be presented by Michelle L. Chubenko from Jersey Roots Genealogy.

Thursday, May 24 @ 11 am – Yoga Basics

This class is great for the beginner or experienced student as we give variations for all levels. Focusing on movement integrating breath, awareness, and alignment you will build strength, focus, flexibility, and balance for both mind and body. The class will be taught by Tula Yoga instructor, Jennifer Cavalieri. Please bring your own yoga mat or large towel.

Must be at least 18 years-old to participate.

Thursday, May 24 @ 7 pm – Matawan Aberdeen Critique Writing Group

Improve your writing with the Matawan Aberdeen Critique Group.

This group is for people who are serious about trying to get published. It’s a safe place where participants are able to give and receive constructive criticism on their writing. Participants should be prepared to read 3-5 pages of their own writing aloud to the group. No need to bring copies for the group.