As soon as guests arrived at the Catalina Room they were greeted by a red carpet entrance leading to a courtyard buffet. After enjoyed a lavish spread of sliced meats, salads, fajitas and more (all generously sponsored by the Luxe Hotels), the group was ushered inside to the Catalina Room.

 The evening began with a moving speech by Rabbi Baruch Kupfer, Executive Director of Maimonides Academy. Rabbi Kupfer described the many ways that Aleinu is deeply committed to supporting and strengthening the families in our community, and introduced Debbie Fox, the director of Aleinu Family Resource Center.

Mrs. Fox spoke about the often untold crises in our community and the role that Aleinu plays in supporting battered wives, abused children and broken families. Mrs. Fox went on to describe individual, anonymous stories of actual clients from our community, and their desire for Aleinu’s help.

When Strunz and Farah took the stage and began to play, toes immediately began tapping as harmonious melodies of jazz filled the room. Strunz and Farah played many of their own original musical compositions, as well as some pieces that were familiar to the crowd. All around the room, people were heard exclaiming about the music. “What wonderful and unique performers!”

The evening concluded with a beautiful dessert buffet and a raffle featuring exclusive prizes. As Strunz and Farah played their last song, the last chocolate mousse was eaten, and as guests headed out, one departing couple shared their sentiments. “What a night! I can’t remember a concert as special as this one!”