November 19, 2004/Kislev 6 5765, Vol. 57, No. 12
A magical evening
STEPHANIE N. HENSCHEL
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 Marlene Lahr makes a bid for the "Jungle Baby" set, which included books and toys, for her new grandson, Henry, at the Council For Jews With Special Needs fund-raiser Nov. 6. "He would love all of this stuff...except for maybe those leopard shoes," she says. Photo by Stephanie N. Henschel |
Attendees mingled in the courtyard overlooking the sparkling pool as a magician roamed about, delighting all with his sleights of hand.
A silent auction featured many prizes, including a signed shoe from Shaquille O'Neal and a real live puppy - an adorable "Schnoodle," or schnauzer-poodle.
According to Becca Hornstein, executive director of CJSN, the fund-raiser - now in its 18th year - provides almost 50 percent of the operating budget for the organization.
"It's extremely important to us that (the event) be a success," Hornstein says.
For the last five years, the events have been centered around a theme, Hornstein says. This year's theme was magic.
Cheswick Photography donated its time to the event by providing pictures used to decorate the room where the auction was held. Clients from CJSN were dressed up in costumes - all with magical themes - and the large photos were placed on the walls.
"The kids were so excited to play with the props and dress up," Hornstein says.
"The Mentalist," also known as Gerry McCambridge, came to perform his practice of mind-reading and hypnosis.
"He is unbelievable," says Alan Spalter, chairman of the event along with his wife Tracy. Spalter had seen "The Mentalist" before when he performed at Spalter's own birthday party.
According to Spalter, the goal for the evening was to raise $250,000. The numbers indicated the number of guests was greater than last year's event, and Spalter was hopeful the goal would be reached.
The event raised more than $143,000.
Ah, it must be magic.