Precious are the pearls of the Jewish Pavilion

On Jan. 20, the Jewish Pavilion held its annual Pearls of the Pavilion luncheon to honor those who go above and beyond to support the Jewish Pavilion. During her opening remarks, Miriam Josephs, event co-chair, shared the true definition of a pearl with attendees.

"One that is very choice or precious," said Josephs.

And for the Jewish Pavilion, supporters invited to the event truly are precious, as the group's generous annual contribution is an important component of funding that allows the nonprofit to continue servicing and providing programming to over 1500 Jewish seniors who reside in over 73 elder-care facilities throughout Central Florida.

The luncheon was held at the home of famed jewelry designer Gay Harrison of Gay Harrison Handcrafted Couture Jewelry, and co-chaired by Josephs and Elise Schilowitz. The event gave over 35 women the chance to raise money for the important cause while enjoying a lovely lunch.

Upon arrival, each attendee was gifted with a strand of beautiful hand-knotted freshwater peacock pearls designed by Harrison and featuring a jaguar-styled clasp adorned with crystals.

With a little encouragement from the ladies in the know, guests were given the opportunity to shop the latest accessories to be found in the Gay Harrison jewelry collection, with a generous donation going back to the Jewish Pavilion. From statement necklaces to colorful bangle bracelets, there were plenty of beautiful options to choose from.

After a period of shopping and fellowship, an extraordinary gourmet meal from Bagel King was served. Following the lunch, Harrison gave a presentation on upcoming trends in jewelry for the spring season. According to Harrison, trends to watch for include the light and airy look, tassels, the multi-strand look and gemstones, particularly baroque pearls. Guests were also provided with a guide on how to choose the correct-sized necklace for varying fashion necklines.

The benefit to becoming a pearl of the Jewish Pavilion is multi-faceted, according to Elise Schilowitz. "Not only do you get a magnificent piece of jewelry," she laughingly said, "but you meet wonderful people, and you help so much with seniors."

Interested in becoming a Pearl with the Jewish Pavilion? Contact Jewish Pavilion Executive Director Nancy Ludin at 407-678-9363 or email: NancyLudin@ jewishpavilion.org.

The Jewish Pavilion enhances the lives of residents in independent, assisted living and skilled nursing facilities throughout Central Florida by providing visitation, Shabbat services, holiday festivities, inter-generational celebrations, musical programs and educational courses. Staff and volunteers visit seniors in over seventy independent, assisted living and long-term care facilities, helping ensure that no senior in our community grows old all alone. Learn more, volunteer, or make a donation at http://www.jewishpavilion.org.