Masks are a Must at the Michael-Ann Russell JCC's Verbena Purim Carnival!

Feb. 22, 2012 - PRLog -- As in past years, over 5,000 people are expected to come out and enjoy the MAR-JCC’s 10th Annual Verbena Purim Carnival presented by the Center’s Hebraica Department. A fun-filled, and sun-filled day of revolving rides, groovy games, and fantastic fare will entice and excite attendees of all ages, from toddlers and tots, to Misters and Mavens. Old favorites like the giant Ferris wheel, rock-climbing wall, giant revolving swing, pirate Ship Swing, Nasscar Ride, as well as a Midway with classic carnival games and entertainment will be sure to please even the pickiest carnival connoisseur. A special Israeli dance performance by the JCC’s Bamachol Dance Academy will highlight the day’s entertainment as well.

The purpose of the annual festivities is to celebrate the holiday of Purim, which recounts the deliverance of the Jewish people from an extermination plot by the wicked Haman. His plot was foiled and a merry celebration followed.
Purim is treated more as a national holiday, like Hanukkah. Work is even allowed in most places but it is encouraged that the occasion be prioritized and celebrated in a joyous manner. Jewish history dictates that Jews observe specific activities during Purim - listening to the readings of the Book Of Esther, giving food gifts to friends, and giving charity to the poor. “It is the last activity, of giving charity, that is the premise of this event,” explains Diani Azout, Coordinator of the Verbena Purim Carnival. “This year we are incorporating a Masquerade theme to further enhance and exemplify the traditional characters of the story of Purim,” Diani continues.
Proceeds from the Verbena Purim Carnival will benefit the MAR-JCC Scholarship Fund. This fund enables under privileged children and families to take advantage of the after-school programs, summer camp, and Infant Daycare & Pre-school at the Michael-Ann Russell Jewish Community Center.“ For more information about the Verbena Purim Carnival, and how you can be a sponsor next year, call Diani Azout at 305-932-4200 x119.

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The Michael-Ann Russell JCC is dedicated to the enrichment of Jewish life, representing a model of acceptance, understanding and diversity. The MAR-JCC is a beneficiary agency of the Greater Miami Jewish Federation, and United Way of Miami-Dade.