>> ... Next Generation ...

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Holiday party draws hundreds.

his Dec. 25, NEXTGen Detroit and
ComePlayDetroit came together to throw
their fifth annual Festivus ... for the rest of
us!
Started as an alternative to the classic Jewish activity
of Chinese food and a movie, this event allows young
Jewish adults to celebrate the holidays together in their
own way at a cutting-edge location.
This year's party was held at Bistro 82 and Sabrage,
owned by local entrepreneur Aaron F. Belen, president
and CEO of AFB Investments and AFB Hospitality Group.
The venue graciously opened on Christmas especially for

this private party, lending the event an exclusive feel.
A crowd of 200 revelers came out to Festivus, both
local partygoers and Detroit expats.
"It was a great way to see everyone over the
holidays," said Marina Rubel, a native of Farmington Hills
who now lives in New York City for her job. "It's amazing
to be able to come home to Detroit and experience so
much going on for young people."
Justin Jacobs, president and founder of
ComePlayDetroit and an original creator of the Detroit
Festivus tradition, explained a bit about the background
of the event. "It was only five years ago that it became

legal for bars to open and serve alcohol on Christmas
Day, and we jumped on the opportunity to give young
Jewish people in the area something really fun to do
together," he said.
The name Festivus references a mock holiday
originating from the show Seinfeld, which includes
customary holiday traditions such as "feats of strength"
and "airing of grievances."
No one had any complaints after attending Festivus at
Bistro 82 and Sabrage, though, where they joined friends
old and new in partying and dancing to the tunes of DJ
PREVU until late into the night.

❑

l~l

N ilil

Nathan Silverman, Randy Silver, Gabe Neistein, Michael Jacobs, Allie Jacobs and
Emily Nadis

Caryn Noveck, Renee Ralsky and Ariana
Mentzel

Jordan Weiss and Jared Goldman

l lill illi
Jared Owen, Todd Schafer and Adam Rubin

Rachel Lubin and Daniel Lubin

January 15 • 2015

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