Getting Into that Bat Mitzvah Frame of Mind Again

This weekend, I'll be flying off to Las Vegas, to be a guest at Beth Gershin's bat mitzvah. It's been two years since her sister Rachel's bat mitzvah. That ceremony was held in a stopgap synagogue: a converted branch bank. They had made some changes to the old bank, but it still looked like a bank. It was hard getting used to using the emergency exit rather than the blocked front doors (despite all the dire posted warnings about multiple alarms and armed guards), and sitting in chairs, rather than standing, in front of the teller windows. The buffet worked pretty well, though, with different dishes available in different teller windows.

On my recent pass through Las Vegas, the Gershins pulled out a cleverly-made DVD with highlights of the previous ceremony and party. Rachel's party was held at the off-Strip Suncoast Hotel and Casino, and it was a blast: two DJs, a videographer, a blizzard of party favors, and enough food to choke a stable of horses. I laughed at the screen when a doofus with big Elton John glasses fell on his back while doing the limbo (until I realized that was me!)

This time, apparently, both the ceremony and the party will be at the Suncoast. I will do the limbo right this time - I WILL! (or else smile while falling!) Once again, Steve Zaintz will be there (an old high-school friend and classmate).

The previous visit was notable for a colossal blackjack win ($14,600.00) This time - can lightning strike twice? Dare I find out?

I also want to see how Home-Girl Kelly Daniells is doing, but I can't take up any of her time: this is probably the most intense month of her life, preparing her debut as 'Sophie,' in "Mamma Mia," at the Mandalay Bay Hotel Resort and Casino, starting January 30th.