Congressman Joins Chanukah Celebration in the Catskills

By: Rosie Baumgarten

The renowned ShopRite mall in Liberty, NY gained prominence as the go-to spot in the Catskills for the annual Chanukah festival. Each year on Motzei Shabbos Chanukah, Rabbi Yossi Hurwitz hosts a grand Menorah Lighting event in front of ShopRite, featuring live music, singer Shmuly Hurwitz, children’s entertainment, and more.

The festivities include complimentary latkes, donuts, special gifts for kids, and even real Chanukah gelt, tossed from a lofty ladder on a firetruck provided by the city of Liberty, creating a memorable celebration for hundreds in attendance.

In this year’s celebration, the Chabad Shluchim, Rabbi Chanowitz of Chabad of Monticello and Rabbi Zayantz of Chabad of Rock Hill, actively joined the grand Lighting event, enhancing the festivals spirit with a Menorah parade of cars adorned with Menorahs on their roofs. This added an extra touch of joy and contributed significantly to the Pirsumei Nissa.

Elected Officials, including the Mayor, Supervisor, controller, legislators, town Judges, Chief of Police of Liberty, Sheriff of Sullivan County, and patrol cars from both departments, were in attendance, solidifying the event’s community presence.

This year, a distinguished guest, Congressman Marc Molinaro, a dedicated Republican known for his strong support of Israel and the Jewish community, was welcomed. Jewish residents within his district played a pivotal role in electing him due to his pro-Israel stance. Congressman Molinaro holds significant influence, representing the expansive #19 NY district, spanning from Binghamton to the southern reaches of Albany and extending into parts of Orange County to the south.

Rabbi Yossi Hurwitz of Chabad of Swan Lake – Liberty NY, overseeing the significant Menorah lighting event, was contacted by Jewish activists. They requested his involvement in inviting the
congressman to the Menorah ceremony, allocating time for him to address the current situation in Israel. Rabbi Hurwitz agreed, and he received a call from the congressman’s office to
coordinate the event details.

The congressman delivered an eloquent speech about Israel, emphasizing the significance of Chanukah as a festival of illuminating darkness. He drew parallels between the challenges posed by Hamas and the historical darkness of the Greeks, expressing confidence in overcoming present challenges.

After the congressman concluded his speech, Rabbi Hurwitz approached him, inquiring about why he selected Liberty from the numerous options in his district, including at least 25 other Shluchim. The congressman smiled and explained that the Jewish activists recommended Chabad of Swan Lake Liberty, citing it as a vibrant and popular location for the event. The congressman added that he is impressed to see such a beautiful and inspiring event firsthand.

B”H, with the Rebbe’s Kochos, the event was a huge success!

We eagerly anticipate the imminent arrival of the ultimate redemption with the coming of Moshiach, vehu Yigoleinu!