YOUNGSTOWN Jews to celebrate Purim with fun

Much about the celebration isn't politically correct, but it's all in fun, a rabbi said.
YOUNGSTOWN -- Everyone needs a good laugh from time to time.
That idea is part of Purim, or the feast of Esther, which begins at sundown Thursday.
The Jewish Community Relations Council describes Purim as a "Day of Merrymaking." Gifts are exchanged, and given to charity.
The Esther story, or the Megillah, has a happy ending (except for the villain) although the subject matter is scary.
Here's a recap: Persia's King Ahasuerus chooses Esther as his new queen in a beauty contest, but doesn't know she is Jewish. Without the king's assent, Prime Minister Haman orders the death of all the Jews in the kingdom.
Esther pleads to save her people; the king agrees and orders Haman put to death. Jews celebrate their reprieve with the first Purim.
Beatles rendition: At Rodef Sholom Temple in Youngstown, there will be a family service featuring Megillah According to the Beatles at 7 p.m. Friday. Congregation members will perform the show written by New York playwright Norman Roth.
These are the real titles to rewritten tunes baby boomers are sure to recognize: "Back in the Month of Adar," "Rabbi Pepper's Only Purim Band," "Got to Get the King a New Wife," "I Want to Kill Your Clan," and what's billed as the "all-time perennial hit," "Hey Jews."
It may not be politically correct, but the idea is to have fun.
Rabbi Simeon Kolko at Ohev Tzedek-Shaarei Torah Congregation in Youngstown said that during Purim, the normal sensibilities may be a bit "topsy-turvy."
Idea of balance: Esther's story has great meaning, such as the demonstration of her faith to save her people and hope for Jews dispersed throughout the often-hostile world. Still, over time, Purim has become Judaism's most lighthearted holiday, said the rabbi.
Despite the inhumanity of Haman's plan, people must have the opportunity for joy in addition to the serious realities of the world.
"It has to do with balance," Rabbi Kolko said.
Like many religious stories, scholars debate whether the story is all or partly true or complete fiction.
Other events: In the meantime, Ohev Tzedek-Shaarei Torah Congregation will have a community festival for kids from 10:30 to noon today. On Thursday, the temple will have special service followed by a dinner.
At Temple El Emeth, there will be a Megillah reading at 5:30 p.m. Thursday followed by a deli dinner and talent show.