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Sunday, February 26, 2006

Say Aloha to Purim

Chabad slates luau March 14

As the Book of Esther outlines, Purim has been celebrated thousands of times with charity, a festive meal and intoxicating beverages. But who's to say the Jews wouldn't have gone to Hawaii to celebrate their victory over the Persians had they the opportunity?

"Everybody has a good time in Hawaii, from youngsters to elders, that's why we chose it," said Simi Mishulovin, co-youth director at Chabad Lubavitch of Oregon and organizer of their Hawaiian Purim Luau.

This March 14 at 6 p.m., the MJCC auditorium will turn into America's official tourist spot, our 50th state, complete with a sandy beach volleyball court, in celebrating a Hawaiian Purim.

The luau will feature many of the customary perks available on the island while also mixing in reminders of Judaism and the celebration of Purim. For instance, attendees are encouraged to wear Hawaiian attire while singing and dancing to Jewish music. And the Hawaiian buffet dinner will feature delicacies such as hearts of palm, while the traditional hamantaschen will be provided with optional tropical fillings.

Mishulovin herself was guarded about what she intended to wear to the celebration but acknowledged she'll probably see plenty of leis, Hawaiian shirts and hula skirts.

"I'd love to see even more creative ideas," she said. Mishulovin said some men would even be wearing "Aloha" kippahs, made specially for Hawaiian-themed events.

To fully appreciate tropical Hawaii, and as tradition requires, libations available will be anything but ordinary. Those of age will be able to enjoy a cash bar that will feature more substance than fancy straws and decorative umbrellas. There will also be a non-alcoholic smoothie station where multiple flavors of fruit will be at your disposal.

Other festive events for the family will include professional hair stylists providing Caribbean hair braiding and a "sandy candy" factory. Mishulovin says this is all in an attempt to "make things more innovative and exciting."

"It's completely a community event, for all Jews in the Portland area and further, from here to Hawaii," she said.

A Megilah reading will start at 5:30 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults and $6 for children. To RSVP or for more information, call 503-977-9947 or visit www.ChabadOregon.com/Purim.

The Web site's virtual Purim also features an online, world-wide Purim costume contest. Anyone, child or adult, can enter by following the instructions at www.ChabadOregon.com/costumecontes

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