The Board of Jewish Education will offer ODYSSEY 2009, which this year will feature an interesting selection of courses from learning about Sholom Aleichem with Dr. Leo Lieberman to a very timely discussion on "Health Care for Whom and For How Much?," led by well respected local physician, Dr. Leonard Galler and Mr. Al Gutierrez, the President and CEO of Shore Memorial Hospitals, at the Katz JCC in Margate, on Sunday, Oct. 25.

Also being offered this year will be classes with Rabbis Gordon Geller, Aaron Krauss, Avrohom Rapoport and David Weis along with Father Paul Wise, Rev. David McGettigan and Kaleem Shabazz, as well as hearing from William R. Southrey, the President and CEO of Atlantic City Rescure Mission, all speaking on a variety of timely topics. Bob Seltzer, the Executive VP of the Jewish Federation will discuss some of the political challenges now facing Israel when he is joined by Rabbi Weis.

Leo Schoffer, along with Gail Rosenthal and Marjorie Berk, will lead a discussion about the history of the Jews of South Jersey.

And for the first time, the BJE is partnering with the Rothenberg Center for Family Life, a part of Jewish Family Service, to offer a series of special classes led by Sharon Simon, the Center Coordinator. Sharon will be joined by Michele Musto, Karen Schwab and Gayle Gross. Among other things the Rothenberg Center helps parents and families deal with young children, teens and that often challenging role of being part of the 'sandwich generation.'

Interested in the folk music of many lands? Join Cantors Larisa Averbakh, Ralph Goren, Alan Smolen and Deborah Stern as they enlighten and entertain.

If you have not yet received a brochure about Odyssey 2009, or you wish to sign up for the program, call the BJE at 822-1854. Registration is $15/person with a special rate for seniors of $12 up until Oct. 21. After that date and at the door all registration is $18.

The evening will begin at the JCC with a wine and cheese reception (dietary laws observed) at 6:15 p.m. and classes begin promptly at 7 p.m.