A return to normalcy

Roberta Obler, President

Naples Jewish Congregation is finally back to a more normalized existence. October was a great month, with another NJC Connects program on Oct. 5, our first in-person services on Oct. 15 and an adult education program with Rabbi Herman on the history of plagues and pandemics in Jewish history on Oct. 19.

NJC held an event on Oct. 24 for previous and new members to meet and mingle, create new friendships and refresh old ones as it has been about 20 months since we all saw each other in person. It was called “Flamingle,” and it was held at Sugden Park on a beautiful Sunday afternoon. It was a fabulous day, where we all learned a little bit about each other that we did not know before. Put together by Bonnie Lechtner and her committee of Patty Osheroff, Chuck Naumoff and Marcella Guggenheim, the event was great fun, and we hope they can put together another program soon. Many thanks to them.

Plans continued in November, with more adult education. On Tuesday, Nov. 16, the topic was “Israel, U.S. relations, and the New Coalition: Where Do We Go From Here?”

On Saturday Nov. 13, we restarted in-person services for the foreseeable future, beginning with a Saturday Torah service and continuing with Friday evening services. This was yet another return to normalcy. We also made plans for the Federation’s annual Chanukah celebration at Mercato on Nov. 29.

Looking forward to December, we will see the start of Sisterhood events, with an opening luncheon at Boston Beer Garden in the outdoor area. Ann Markham Walsh will talk about her book, “Dancing Through Darkness.” Other Sisterhood events will continue each month going forward.

Lastly, I am very sorry to report that this is my last article for the Federation Star. I have resigned as president of Naples Jewish Congregation due to health reasons. I felt a deep commitment to NJC and am deeply disappointed that I cannot continue. I found Rabbi Herman’s talks very inspirational, especially in this COVID period. He has also helped us realize some important things about what we all need to be focused on. I wish Charles Flum, my replacement, great success in this role as he takes over as president.