Special Interest Groups
Women’s Cultural Alliance
Men’s Cultural Alliance (MCA)
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he Women’s Cultural Alliance (WCA), a non-fundraising affinity group of the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, is an independent organization run entirely by volunteers. WCA offers a wide variety of cultural, educational, fitness and social programs, through which women can meet other women who share similar interests. Formed in 2008, WCA is beginning its 13th season of offering outstanding programs year-round to women in Southwest Florida. WCA currently has more than 1,200 members, and new members are always welcome! WCA is nonpartisan, nonwsectarian and welcomes women of all faiths. Membership in WCA includes membership in the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples. For a sampling of programs, see the WCA listing in the Arts & Culture section on pages 24. For this season’s program guide, visit www.WomensCulturalAlliance.com.
Sue Dean, Mary O’Haver, Susan Koeppel, Barbara Karp, Harriett Kleinman, Lenore Greenstein, Susan Pittelman, Phyllis Strome, Arlene Sobol, Elaine Soffer, Nancy Kahn, WCA President Patti Boochever, Barbara Suden, Toby Kosloff, Dina Shein, Lea Bendes, Robin Mintz and Linda Simon Not Pictured: Emily Berkowitz, Ann Cowen, Cathy Lone-Dawson and Leslie Wasserman
WCA programs are available only to WCA members, so if you are not already a member of WCA, join today to ensure that you, too, can be part of all that WCA has to offer. For a membership form or more information, please visit the website at www.WomensCulturalAlliance.com. A Harriett Kleinman, membership form is also WCA Membership Director in every issue of the Fedhmkleinman@ gmail.com eration Star.
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aunched over seven years ago, the Men’s Cultural Alliance of Greater Naples (MCA) has grown into the pre-eminent men’s social and cultural organization in the area. Comprised of members from all across the United States and Canada, MCA offers a wide variety of activities and events to its 700-plus members. MCA’s programming includes monthly luncheon programs (when possible) with engaging guest speakers, and events and outings for members only as well as members and spouses. The organization offers a myriad of activities that include golf, boating, fishing, pickleball, birding, bocce ball, biking, and discussion and book review groups. The highly regarded Documentary Film program has been a perennial sellout. Members of MCA have also been involved in many local charitable endeavors, including the Harry Chapin Food Bank, Habitat for Humanity and Bikes for Tykes. The organization is a sponsor of the annual Greater Naples Jewish Book Festival. Members are encouraged to start new programs, activities and events. For more information about MCA or to become a member, please visit the website mcanaples.com. E-blasts are sent to all members periodically, with a listing of events and how to sign up. An online program guide is also distributed to members annually. For more information about MCA and its programs, please contact MCA president Les Nizin at mcanaplespresident@gmail.com. MCA is an affiliate of the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples and Federation membership is included with annual dues.
Jewish Russian Cultural Alliance
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he Jewish Russian Cultural Alliance (JRCA) is a Day. Meetings always include a kosher-style community group under the auspices of the Jewish Federation of meal, followed by a film presentation, poetry readings or a Greater Naples. Jews from the former Soviet Union, similar cultural exchange. and countries which evolved after its collapse, are moving to Meetings in May always include tributes to relatives who Southwest Florida and seeking out new connections. lived through WWII or perished in it, story and photo sharJRCA’s mission is to enhance the social and cultural ing, and occasionally singing. lives of this emerging community. Non-Jewish relatives and Many newcomers pop in to find new friends or break friends are welcome. off into smaller circles of like-minded friends. That’s what The group is now in its fifth this is all about — no membership fees, no year and has traditionally met commitments, just fun! Cooking contests Mark Katsnelson to celebrate Rosh Hashanah, for Hanukkah and Purim have produced 856.912.0894 or JRCAGroup@gmail.com Hanukkah, Purim and Israel undisputed winners. CONNECTIONS 2021
A Guide to Jewish Living in Greater Naples
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