By Dara Linson 

What a colorful, celebratory and FUNtastic time we all had at CJC's Purim Fiesta last night!  Always a joyous holiday, this year certainly continued in the 'Marcus Method' of providing a meaningful, memorable and simply magnificent community observance of Purim. Rabbi Zalman and Rebbitzen Bassie looked so festive in their giant Mexican sombreros and brightly striped serapes, all the while focused on imparting the important lessons and spiritual significance of this holiday. To them, CJC is an extension of their home and they always treat everyone as honored guests , taking great care to share their enthusiasm & knowledge of Torah wisdom.

The Mexican Fiesta theme came to life at the Center through the amazing vision, talent and hard work of Batsheva and husband Tracy Bollinger. The moment we walked in it felt like a warm, welcoming Mexican village with decor that rivaled a Hollywood set!  There was a Mexican cantina where delicious Margaritas and other drinks were served. Dramatic candlelight revealed a splendid and sumptuous buffet, decorated so beautifully with straw hats, clay pots and many colorful Mexican accents, surrounding a mouthwatering assortment of delectable desserts!  The dining tables held tortilla chip laden sombreros, with bowls of flavorful guacamole and salsa alongside. The starring centerpieces were magnificent, enormous tissue paper flower bouquets, with a rainbow of colors to further enliven the room. Hanging from the ceiling throughout were party flags with Mexican fiesta-themed cutouts that added even more color and festivity. There are photos attached to this email to verify my kvelling:-)

The evening party was for adults, with Sunday's big celebration for children & families. Even without the kids, CJC last night was full of youthful energy from the fun of hearing Rabbi Marcus reading the Megillah and everyone shaking their groggers - or this year, maracas - at the mention of evil Haman's name. Afterwards we enjoyed the hamantashen and other plentiful desserts & fruits, as well as visiting the cantina for our Purim 'punch':-) It was wonderful to see so many adults dressed in fabulous costumes of all sorts (I think I spotted a grown-up pretty Princess Leia and handsomely graying Han Solo!), but certainly the colorful and large sombreros were the favored costume choice of the evening.

Yet more fun was still to come! Introduced by our fabulous MC Jeff Rosenthal was comedian Mike Preminger, who came from L.A. to entertain us for the evening. Mr. Preminger, born in the Bronx, began his stand-up comedy career at the famed Improv in N.Y. and has performed countrywide with the likes of Connie Stevens, The Four Tops & The Temptations. His many TV appearances include "The Dean Martin Show", "Merv Griffin" and "The Tonight Show".  It was obvious to us all that Mike Preminger was a seasoned professional whose style of comedy seemed so natural & effortless. He was, however - hilarious!! We all laughed merrily for his nearly hour long show and I think everyone would agree that this man is serious funny!!

It was truly a completely enjoyable Purim celebration! Of course, nothing like this could be accomplished without some help. OK - with a LOT of help!  Gratitude to Cindy and Marc Cisneros, Leron Inbar, Mark Drezin, Jeff and Andee Dekofsky, Levi Moskowitz, Yanky Richler, Mashie Marcus, Sigal Benyehudah, Eric Baum, Laura and Diane Baynes, Samantha Cymerint and many more. Thank you so much!

More pictures and a recap of the Family Purim Fiesta coming next week.

Purim 5771-2011 Recap Purim Comedy Fiesta