An exciting New Year ahead

Jane Schiff, Federation Board Chair

For those of us of a certain age (you get to decide for yourself what that age is), every day is a new beginning, a reason to celebrate. And throughout the years, there have been so many new beginnings for each of us – weddings, children and grandchildren being born, new jobs, new homes, etc. At this time of year, we Jews always celebrate the birthday of the world, Rosh Hashanah. I must admit that I feel more excited and more anticipation than usual for this New Year, 5783. My excitement stems from being just months away from the opening of the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center.

For the past 10 months, I have watched a miracle rise from the ground. For the past six years, I have worked with Marc Saperstein and Jeffrey Feld, as the core, to make the vision of the Greater Naples Jewish Community and Jewish Federation of Greater Naples come true. This year, in Naples, we will have a home for WCA, MCA and BBYO as well our Federation. There will be a community cultural event center available for parties, lectures, movies, study groups, games and just being together.

We all know the Naples area is growing. The traffic each season becomes more annoying (come down in July when there is no traffic). The growth attracts Jews as well. Now, there will be a central address where newcomers can become oriented to our Jewish community. While security will be tight at the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center, it will be a welcoming place.

We have already started planning a wonderful Grand Opening celebration, with a committee chaired by Nat Ritter working on it. As the date and plans become firm, you will see details in the weekly e-blast. I hope to greet each of you that day. We will have activities to engage everyone.

This building was built by and for the community. When it opens, it is yours to enjoy, use and consider your cultural home.

This is the Jewish beginning to 5783 in Naples.