Springfield’s annual Public Chanukah Menorah Lighting Ceremony was held on cool and blustery Tuesday evening, December 12, 2017, at Veterans Memorial Park. Several hundred Springfielders attended and amongst them were members of Springfield's Police and Fire Departments, Springfield’s First Aid Squad & the Township Committee. The event marked the celebration of Chanukah, the Festival of Lights, with a public menorah lighting sponsored by the Chabad Jewish Learning Center of Springfield in partnership with Congregation Israel of Springfield.
The event was arranged by the Chabad couple Rabbi Mendy & Aidella Blesofsky of the JLC of Springfield. They thanked all for coming and encouraged the guests to keep the miracle of Chanukah alive today by
performing "Mitzvoth" & good deeds for others. Mayor Diane Stampoulos wished all a Happy Chanukah. Rabbi Blesofsky lit the Shamash candle and made two blessings over the candles while ascending 20 feet off the ground to light the candles. Following the lighting of the candles, the Rabbi soared over the crowd tossing traditional Chanukah “Geld” to the children below. Following the lighting, Chanukah goodies were served much to the delight of children of all ages. The treats included traditional latkes and donuts, chocolate coins and beverages. The youngest guests also had an opportunity to sing "The Dreidel Song" along with other favorite Chanukah songs. Live music entertained the audience while all enjoyed the festive atmosphere.
The Rabbi thanked Springfield’s Office of Emergency Management, Springfield Auxiliary Police, the Department of Public Works, Police, Fire and First Aid & Springfield Township for their involvement in making the public menorah lighting an inspiring and a memorable evening.
Rabbi Mendy Blesofsky would like to give a sSecial thank you to thier Sponsors: Jonny from 8 Minute Oil Change and Auto Repair, Jeff from Pinkava's Motor Company, Mack Retail - Camera & Video Service, and Gary & Ina Singer from Signature Realty.
Photos:
1-3 Rabbi Mendy ascends in the bucket to light the candles
4,6 & 7 The Rabbi addresses the audience
5-Mayor Stampoulos wishes everyone a Happy Chanukah
8-Springfield DPW at the ready to deploy the bucket
10-Latkes (and applesauce of course), donuts and chocolate coins are served!
11-A very large dreidel!
