Jewish Pavilion supporters enjoyed a pearl of an event

The Pearls of the Pavilion luncheon on Feb. 22 treated some of the Jewish Pavilion's most generous supporters to a gracious afternoon social affair. Attendees were celebrated as "pearls" because of their yearly commitment of at least $500 to support the Pavilion's programs, which keep hundreds of Jewish seniors in Central Florida living facilities connected to their Jewish heritage and to the community. To symbolize their value to the organization, all attendees who were first-time annual donors of $500 or more received a beautiful strand of hand-knotted freshwater peacock pearls.

Guests enjoyed a delicious lunch catered by George's Gourmet Cookies and Catering, featuring panko-encrusted salmon filet with bearnaise sauce and capers and basil cream penne Alfredo, and followed, of course, by George's mouth-watering cookies.

The event was sponsored and co-chaired by Geanne Share and Eva Krzewski, who also created the beautiful table decor. As guests enjoyed their meals, Share thanked them for their support of the Pavilion, asking them to imagine a life in which a day's highlights might be dressing, eating, and playing Bingo. "Now, you can imagine what it means when the Jewish Pavilion visits or hosts a program," she continued. "We give them a hug, a touch, which is so meaningful. We bring them a slice of challah, a little pudding, and we make a connection with the seniors we visit. Because of your generous support, Jewish seniors have not been forgotten."

The event's highlight was an intimate private performance by Orlando Ballet II dancers, made possible by the generous donation of the Orlando Ballet. Orlando Ballet School director Phillip Broomhead introduced the sneak preview of two new works, "Arrival" and "In Concerti," which are in final stages of rehearsal before an upcoming performance.

The Jewish Pavilion hosts a number of entertaining and meaningful events throughout the year and warmly welcomes members of the community to get involved. To learn more about the Jewish Pavilion, visit JewishPavilion.org or call 407-658-9363.