4 minute read
Cheers to the 2nd Annual Matzah Ball and a bright future!
By Michael Rubenstein, Matzah Ball Chair
Lights, camera, Matzah Ball! The 2nd Annual Jewish Federation of Greater Naples Matzah Ball, themed “A Night at the Jerusalem Light Festival,” was a vibrant evening enjoyed by all and a huge success!
The event took place on Saturday, Dec. 2, 2023. It was a beautiful night. The moon was out, the stars were shining and the temperature was perfect. The event began at 7 p.m. with cocktails, appetizers and music. As you stepped into the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center, you left Naples and entered a world of lights. The centerpieces were decorated with red anemone coronaria flowers (national flower of Israel), doves and bright lights. The walls radiated with lights flashing from every direction. The drinks were poured into cups with lights that flashed as you drank.
Glow sticks, flashing sunglasses and bright lights galore were seen throughout the room. But the light display that dropped jaws and stole the show was the radiant and glowing dance floor. As guests danced, lights danced below the floor, creating a beautiful and energetic effect that was contagious. When you combined the light displays with the Israeli-themed food provided by Sage Catering and music by DJ Unek, it really felt like you were actually at the Jerusalem Light Festival.
As the cocktail hour ended, I gave a short speech, thanking everyone for coming and thanking event committee members for all the time, support and work they put into the event to make it such a success. I also acknowledged that while there is a war taking place and many Israelis and Jewish people are suffering, it is important now more than ever to come together as a community, be united and support Israel and our faith.
In fact, every dollar of net proceeds raised from the Matzah Ball went toward the Israel Emergency Relief Fund to support those in need.
As the night progressed, the conversation got louder, as did the music. All you could see were lights, smiles and dancing, and all you could hear was music, talking and laughing. The energy and excitement could not be contained, and the room was overflowing with happiness and joy.
We want to acknowledge the committee members and sponsors, without whom the event would not have taken place. The committee consisted of Susan Solomon, Mia Hyatt, Pam Lundborg, Fabiana Kivilevic, Alicia Feldman, Max Deifik and Rocio Bershadski. The sponsors included Dean Mead, JP MorganPrivate Bank, Quarles & Brady LLP, Cassie & Max Deifik and presenting sponsor, the Rubenstein Family.
The 2nd Annual Jewish Federation of Greater Naples Matzah Ball was a night to remember, and we will look forward to the 3rd annual next year!
