County Executive Edward Mangano welcomed Chanukah to Nassau County with lighting the center Shamash of the Menorah at a special gathering of leaders in Eisenhower Park in East Meadow NY.
“The messages of the holiday and the candelabra are universal and transcend religious, political and national differences,” said Edward Mangano, “and not to forget how delicious the rabbi’s doughnut taste!” he joked. He said the candles “serve to inspire everyone, without distinction.”
More than 12,000 cars a day pass by this area each day. The event was coordinated and emceed by the local Shliach Rabbi Anchelle Perl.
“Despite the recent Hurricane Sandy,” noted Rabbi Perl, “the festival of Chanukah is here to remind us that we can rebuild and overcome all odds.”
Even the falling rain could not dampen the spirits of those joining, including the Police Department Detective Lieutenant Gary Shapiro, Commanding Officer Bias Crime Coordinator, Inspector Murphy and County Comptroller George Merogos.
A special moment of silence was observed to remember those lost to the Hurricane and prayers of best wishes for a complete recovery to the many who are still homeless and slowly rebuilding their lives after Sandy.
