Chanukah on Ice in Stavropol

STAVROPOL, Russia [CHI] — This past Sunday 100 Jews from the Southern city of Stavropol gathered in the local ice skating rink to celebrate Chanukah. Jewish music blared from the speakers, as the children, parents, and even the Rabbi skated around. This was followed by the lighting of a Menorah which stood at a meter and a half in height. Gennady Khasminsky, a local actor, told over the story of Chanukah to the 40 children at the event, and Rabbi Zvi Hershcovich spoke about how the candles represent light rising over the darkness, and that we must do good deeds in order to bring Moshiach closer.

While the Menorah was lit, the community stood together and sang some Chanukah songs. A massive Dreidel competition began, and the winner (Grisha Marshkovich) was awarded his own silver-plated Menorah. Then the children made a craft, building their own Kiddush cups to take home.

Sufganiyot (Chanukah doughnut), Latkas and chocolate coins were also served. It was a beautiful event, thanks to the sponsor Eli Ginsburg and the assistance of Luba Ozerova, who helped make the donuts, and Misha Peskin, who assisted with the rental.