Purim at the JLC in Miami

By Mendy Bortunk

The end of Shabbos brought on the beginning of a spectacular Purim at the JLC Chabad in Miami Beach, organized by the program director Rabbi Aron Rabin.

The holiday began with a Megillah reading shortly after Ma’ariv, with Morah Yossi leading the express train in his super-red suit. The room shook when Haman’s name was mentioned, thanks to all the kids and their powerful clapper graggers. This was followed by a second Megillah reading one hour later by the expert speed reader Mendy Bortunk, who lained the Megillah 14 times over Purim!

The next morning started a new day of excitement as there were four Megillah readings throughout the day. All children in attendance received beautiful Mishloach Manos bags. Between all of the readings over 500 people heard the Megillah.

The Purim Seudah was held in the late afternoon. In the usual JLC style, the atmosphere was over the top. The room was colorfully decorated and the food was first class. With 300 people attending, the building was bursting with excitement on all floors. The children had a special dinner, followed by a magic show, and a room full of video games.

The adults enjoyed a professional juggler, and then had an elegant Chinese Auction, with Barney as the MC. The auction comprised of 16 prizes including a watch valued at over $1300, and split the pot of $800.

Everyone was filled with a joyous Purim feeling, and left wanting to come back to the JLC for future events. We would like to give a special thank you to all those who helped to make this and all other JLC events a success