MCA celebrates its 10th season!

By Jeff Margolis

Almost 10 years ago, a group of Federation members, under the guidance of the late Steve Brazina, got together to plan what was to become the Men’s Cultural Alliance. Now, as its 10th season begins, MCA, a vibrant and active organization of almost 700 members (and growing) that has survived the COVID-19 pandemic as well as the untimely passing of its founder, is looking forward to another year of great programs and, more importantly, great friendships.

Today, MCA president Michael Sobol leads the organization into its second decade with ambitious plans to grow the organization and provide diverse programming to appeal to its members. This includes expanding its volunteer opportunities as well as developing programs for younger members and single members.

Below is just a sampling of upcoming MCA programs as we welcome a new season and MCA’s 10th exciting year. For information about, and to register for, these or any other MCA programs, go to the MCA website (www.mcanaples.org) and click on the “Programs” link.

Save the date – Fall Golf Outing

On Saturday, Oct. 1, MCA will hold its annual Fall Golf Outing at the Pelican Sound Golf Club. This event is open to all golfers, regardless of skill.

Brazina Documentary Film Series

On Tuesday, Nov. 1, the Brazina Documentary Film Series begins its new season with a screening of the film, “Levys of Monticello,” that tells the little-known story of the Levy family, which owned and carefully preserved Monticello for nearly a century – far longer than Jefferson or his descendants. The film will be shown at Temple Shalom.

Season kickoff luncheon

On Thursday, Nov. 10, the MCA Monthly Luncheon: 2022 - 2023 Season Kickoff will take place at Audubon Country Club. Fellow MCA member, Mel Zahn, is the featured speaker and will present, “Why Me,” the story of his kidnapping.

“Israel Between the Wars: Six Month Update”

On Thursday, Nov. 17, MCA member Steve Shreier will provide his semiannual assessment of all things Israel in a program titled, “Israel Between the Wars: Six Month Update” at Beth Tikvah.

Comedy, Dinner & Chanukah Candle Lighting

And it’s never too soon to pencil in the annual Comedy, Dinner & Chanukah Candle Lighting at Off the Hook Comedy Club on Dec. 20!

Many MCA activities have continued throughout the summer. Here is a sampling of what’s going on this month.

Th e MCA Book Discussion Group will get together on Thursday, Sept. 8 at 2:30 p.m. to discuss “The Flag, the Cross and the Station Wagon,” by Bill McKibbon. The book is about “A graying American looking back at his suburban boyhood and wondering what the hell happened.”

On Monday, Sept. 12 at 10 a.m., the Israel Discussion Group will hold its monthly meeting.

During the September MCA Travelogue Series, MCA’s globetrotting storyteller, Jim Sernovitz, stays close to home this month with a look at “New York, New York.” Even if you have been there before, you will want to Zoom in. The program will take place on Tuesday, Sept. 13 at 2:30 p.m.

Many of the outdoor activities, like kayaking, bocce and walking, are continuing. Other activities, such as the weekly breakfast, dine-around and other social groups are also ongoing.

It’s a great time to join (or rejoin) MCA

Are you new to the Greater Naples area? Are you returning to Southwest Florida from a summer up north? If so, then please join MCA. Annual dues are $90, which includes access to all MCA activities and a membership in Jewish Federation of Greater Naples. You can become a member or renew your membership online. Go to the MCA website (www.mcanaples.org) and click on “Membership.”

MCA wishes all its members and their families a happy and healthy New Year. L’Shana Tovah.