‘Mediterranean Magic’ Returns To Congregation Adath Israel

By Eliza Hallabeck

After dinner and entrées were served at Congregation Adath Israel, 115 Huntingtown Road, on Saturday, November 12, eventgoers at this year’s “Mediterranean Magic” night gathered for the night’s performance of Rakshanda Rya, a belly dancing team headed by Adina.

The night also included a silent auction of 70 different items that ranged in value from $25 to $2,500.

The committee members who oversaw the event were Co-Chairs Rita Frost and Bonnie Goldstein, Food Chair Nancy Bamberg, public relations overseer Curtis Urbina, setup coordinator Andrew Paley, publicity by David Smith, Linda Baulsir, Alyce Block, Beverly Block, Bob Foss, Previn Patel, Lillie Petrie, Rabbi Shaul Praver, Mardi Smith, and David Weiner.

Before the night’s entertainment began, Rabbi Praver and Ms Frost spoke to the crowd. Ms Frost thanked the donors who helped make the event possible, and Rabbi Praver thanked those who volunteered time to make the night happen.

Among the silent auction items were a week at a Vermont vacation house for 12, gift certificates to local restaurants, Westport Country Playhouse, Jacob’s Pillow, Newtown Color Center, Mona Lisa Restaurant, Sal e Pepe, La Fortuna, and others.

Items also included quilted items from internationally known Turkish quilter Selma Kenter, a stay at the Fife n’ Drum in Kent, a $700 gift certificate toward treatment of Invisalign or braces and tooth whitening by Dr Aaron Gilman (Dental Associates), dental services from Dr Scott Bialik, a pair of orchestra seats for Bridgeport Symphony, a backstage tour for up to 12 at Boston Symphony, Avalone Wine Shop gift basket, kayaking lessons, and a pair of tickets for a Town Players of Newtown performance.

“It was great,” said Ms Goldstein following the event.

While Ms Goldstein did not know the final amount the night raised for Congregation Adath Israel, she said she knows it did well. She also said she overheard many attendees expressing they had a great time.

“I know [Ms Frost] and I were very pleased,” said Ms Goldstein.

This was the second year Congregation Adath Israel hosted the “Mediterranean Magic,” and, while Ms Goldstein said she is not sure what will happen next year, she has high hopes it will be another entertaining evening. Roughly 100 people attended this year’s event.

“I’m grateful to the community for coming out and supporting us, and I hope next year to see even more,” said Ms Goldstein.