Heritage Florida Jewish News - Central Florida's Independent Jewish Voice

More than 120 women gathered at the 7th annual Jewish Pavilion fashion show at Bloomingdales in Orlando on May 6, for a morning of friendship, fashion, food and fun, honoring Friends board member Susan Livingstone. A handful of Pavilion volunteers served as runway models as Jennifer Bentson, Bloomingdale's public relations manager, shared the latest fashion trends.

Event co-chairwoman Marlene Adler delivered opening remarks and expressed her gratitude to the many lovely ladies responsible for this event, including her co-chairwoman, Marci Gaeser, who arranged for the venue and handled model preparations. Adler introduced Susan Livingstone, stating, "I've known Susan for over 30 years, when she first arrived from Ireland... Susan is an outstanding wife, mother, grandmother and friend. She is president of Hadassah (again), and an active member of the Friends of the Pavilion Board, where she bakes, knits, and participates in many senior activities." Adler added, "She has the patience of a saint, a positive attitude that is infectious, and a dedication to the Jewish community rarely matched in Orlando."

The visibly moved honoree expressed her thanks for the kind remarks, wiping away tears of happiness as she addressed the crowd. Livingstone gave additional thanks to Pavilion volunteers, family members and participants for their overwhelming support of the event, as well as of the Jewish elder community, her warm smile and Irish lilt immediately putting the crowd at ease. She shared that she was particularly touched by the presence of friends, from both near and far away, including longtime friend, Lisette Halpern, who drove in from Jacksonville.

Susan Livingstone with dear friend and event co-chair Marlene Adler.

Livingstone also expressed appreciation for the Pavilion staff and volunteers for letting her do the things that she loves that enhance the lives of seniors in long term care facilities. "Thanks to Nancy Ludin and Emily Newman and the entire staff for letting me bake, knit and spend time with the seniors," noted a grateful Livingstone. She added through bittersweet tears, "It's not always easy for me to spend time with seniors because I was only able to visit my own mother twice a year when she was in Ireland and I was here... Please come and volunteer for the Pavilion. Spending time with the elderly is a very worthy cause."

Pavilion Executive Director Nancy Ludin shared that the event's success was a testament to Livingstone, and her active involvement in the Jewish community. She stated, "Susan Livingstone has fashioned a life out of giving back to the community, and it was a pleasure to honor her at today's fashion show. Also, a big 'thank you' to co-chairs Marci Gaeser and Marlene Adler for making the event possible and allowing us to be dressed for success in Susan's honor."