(Courtesy of Fleetwood Synagogue) Purim at Fleetwood Synagogue this year was a treat for kids and adults alike, with a Sunday brunch, cocktails and a surprise ice cream sundae bar. The shul had previously announced a brunch with quintessential cocktails, like mimosas and Bloody Marys, to go with a spread of fresh bagels, eggs, spreads and cheeses. Purim falling on a Sunday this year was a special bonus for the planning committee, as shul-goers were not rushing from work to get to a seudah and could relax after attending one of the shul’s Megillah readings. Members enjoyed each other’s company over hot Sammy’s bagels, while kids enjoyed Purim craft projects.

The real surprise was when Head Rabbi Dr. Yosef Cohen, wife Eliana, and children Akiva and Tova, all dressed as ice cream makers for Purim, announced that the rabbi’s community mishloach manot would be unorthodox—and proceeded to wheel out ice cream and toppings, to the excitement of the brunch crowd. It was truly a family effort as all four Cohens manned the ice cream bar, doling out ice cream, toppings and smiles to the freilichen Purim celebrators. The 10:30 serving time didn’t seem to faze any parents, as kids truly took to the meaning of “v’nahafoch hu” (topsy turvy) and enjoyed their ice cream for breakfast!

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