Friends of Lubavitch of Bergen County Holds Annual

Community Chanukah Celebration & Giant Menorah Lighting at Englewood City Hall

Mayor Michael Wildes will participate in the lighting of the candles to commemorate the holiday's third night on Sunday, December 17 th , 5:30 p.m. at Englewood City Hall, 2-10 Van Brunt St. at the corner of Palisade Ave.

Something brand new is being added this year to the already lively annual Chanukah Celebration that takes place at Englewood City Hall. Besides the hot potato pancakes, fresh donuts, live music and the lighting of a giant 12-foot menorah there will be a fire juggling show with master fire juggler Keith Leif.

Chanukah is the eight-day Jewish "Festival of Lights," this year beginning on the evening of Decemer 15 th . Each evening at sunset an additional candle is lit to commemorate the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem some 2000 years ago. The holiday also celebrates the miracle of one day's worth of pure ritual oil burning for eight days until a new supply could be obtained. “The message of Chanukah,” explains Rabbi Ephraim Simon, Executive Director of Friends of Lubavitch of Bergen County and spiritual leader for the Teaneck Chabad House, “is one of hope in the face of extreme adversity. It's a message with broad appeal to everyone who believes in religious freedom and that faith and determination can triumph against even the most overwhelming odds.”

People of all ages will enjoy singing traditional songs like “Rock of Ages” and “The Dreidel Song,” and eating the free, delectable holiday treats, including tasty potato latkes (pancakes) with applesauce and sour cream, jelly doughnuts, plus chocolate gelt (coins) and prizes for the children. There will be a special choir from the Moriah School in Englewood performing as well.

Contact: Rabbi Ephraim Simon           

Monday, December 4, 2006

Phone: 201-907-0686                     

Email: RabbiSimon@aol.com

Paid for by Friends of Michael J. Wildes, Assemblyman Arnold Brown, Treasurer