This article appeared in the April 22, 2004 Jewish Advocate.

For singles groups, the more the merrier

By Susie Davidson

Advocate Correspondent

As seasons change for singles, one constant remains. With each change in the weather, every holiday, each reason to celebrate, dedicated event producers work hard to get singles onto cruises, out on dance floors, into restaurants, concert halls and nightclubs, out of town, even to other countries, all with the mission to get Jewish singles together in ways that are both entertaining and enriching.

In mid-2003, several prominent area organizers realized that by pooling resources and manpower to sponsor dances, trips and events, they could increase the fun, and the odds of success for their attendees as well. While maintaining their own regional and individual schedules, the groups have seen the fruits of their efforts go well beyond the tasty appetizer platters.

“The combined effort has really brought out new faces and increased attendance at events,” said Jeff Popkin, who heads the J Connection, as he lauds their value. “Where else can you have an all-inclusive evening with dancing and hors d'oeuvres for less than $20, with the very real potential to meet new friends and possibly a significant other?”

Presently, Popkin is planning a full slate of springtime fun for both of his groups, one for 20s and 30s and another for over 35 years of age. “After the long winter, people are looking to get out meet friends and significant others,” he said. “We fulfill this need with events of good value, at great locations.” His upcoming lineup includes a Spring Gala dance for 35 and up, this Saturday evening at the Holiday Inn in Brookline, 1200 Beacon St., from 8 p.m.–1 a.m., and a May 1 Spring Fling at Vinalia, 101 Arch St., Boston, from 9 p.m.-2 a.m. for the 20s and 30s group. Both are presented in conjunction with North Shore Jewish Singles Connection and Club Getaway, which gives away a weekend trip at each event.

A three-day Memorial Day Weekend trip to Nantucket on May 28-31 is also planned; tickets to J Connection events can be reserved online at www.tjcboston.com, by calling 781-444-7771 or by check to The J Connection, PO Box 488, Needham Heights, Mass., 02494.

Popkin allies with groups such as JDate, college Hillels and graduate associations. “Over 50 venues, including many Jewish restaurants and retail stores throughout Greater Boston, are also helping to spread the word as well,” he said. He has also co-sponsored events with the Newton JCC.

“The J Connection's events are always held at unique venues, often with creative themes,” said Sara Berkowitz of Brookline. “The atmosphere is always welcoming, friendly and fun. You always know you will meet interesting people. It's much more inviting than the typical Boston ‘bar scene’”.

“Spring and the J Connection make a great combination,” said Popkin, who notes that hundreds of couples have met at their events. “Our goal is to provide Jewish professionals with fun exciting events and social opportunities to meet,” he added. “The more partners we can work with, the better the events and success of our goal.”

Felice Cohen also runs a busy ship at the North Shore Jewish Singles Connection. As the Director of its programs, which are under the auspices of the Jewish Federation of the North Shore, she is based at 21 Front St. in Salem. The group’s events, which often occur in the North Shore area and serve ages 20s to 50s, are known for being lively and eclectic. Recent outings include an April 16 “Shabbat Around Town,” which organized carpools to go to Temple Ahavat Achim in Gloucester, an April 17 “Singles Having Fun” at Ryles Jazz Club in Cambridge, which included a swing and salsa lesson and dinner at the nearby S&S Deli, and a dinner at Joe’s American Bar and Grill in Woburn the same night.

Tonight, the group will sponsor “Mixing and Mingling for Sophisticated Singles” at the Hawthorne Hotel in Salem at 7:30 p.m. A “Young Urbanite Professional Singles” cocktail hour for ages 20s to 30s, and a “Flirting with Fashion” workshop with Ginger Burr, presented by Ginger Burr, president and owner of Total Image Consultants, will precede the mingle. This Saturday, they co-sponsor the Spring Gala with the J Connection in Brookline, and on Sunday, the next “Singles Having Fun” will occur at the Peabody Essex Museum in Salem at 1:30 p.m., featuring a tour of the museum’s collections of Asian, Native American, American, African and Oceanic art and photography and its historic houses and gardens. 

In collaboration with Singularly Yours, a Hadassah-sponsored Jewish singles group for ages 45-59, the NSJSC will also present relationship expert Herb Pearce this Sunday, from 6-9 p.m., at a TBA location which can be obtained by calling 781-444-7769 or 617-730-8009. On Thursday, April 29, another “Mixing and Mingling” event at the Hawthorne Hotel will feature Marion B. Davis, founder and president of Self-Esteem Boston, which assists individuals in area shelters and transitional programs. On Wednesday, May 5, Jodi Smith, president and owner of Mannersmith, will talk about increasing social savvy and confidence.

For more information or reservations to any of these events, call 978-745-4222 x217, email felice@jfns.org or visit www.jewishsinglesconnection.org.