Matzah Ball

By Michael Rubenstein, Committee Chair

Saturday, Jan. 21, 2023 was certainly an evening to remember. It was a beautiful night. The moon was out, the stars were shining and the temperature was perfect. More than 80 people under 50 years old from the Greater Naples Jewish community gathered at the brandnew Jewish Federation of Greater Naples building. They entered the building to fun and energetic music, beautiful decorations, delicious Mediterranean-flavored foods and creative inspired cocktails. All you could see were smiles and dancing. All you could hear were conversations and laughter. The room was overflowing with energy and excitement. The first-ever Jewish Federation of Greater Naples Matzah Ball was a huge success.

Committee members Max Diefek, Rocio Bershadski, Mia Hyatt, Susan Solomon and Chair Michael Rubenstein

The evening began with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres outside on the terrace and courtyard. Attendees met one another and enjoyed pita, hummus, olives and cheese. There was even a dish being prepared on the spot with an amazing presentation using a large flame to cook the food. After an hour, the guests went inside where Board Chair Jane Schiff

shared an introduction and words about the Federation, and the importance of those of us in attendance.

Those in attendance truly felt not only like part of the Jewish community, but also the future of the Jewish community as well. Schiff handed the microphone to me, and I echoed her words, said a few of my own, proposed a toast and kicked off the party with dinner and dancing to DJ Psych Jam. The rest of the evening was wonderful. The dancing took over and the party raged on until 11 p.m. I want to thank my committee members — Rocio Bershadski, Max Diefek, Mia Hyatt and Susan Solomon — who helped make this event the success it was! The first ever will now be the first annual, as we plan to continue this as a tradition for many years to come.