Symbol of Jewish Liberty Shines in Liberty, NY

More than 250 people gathered outside of Shoprite Mall in Liberty, NY, on Motzei Shabbos, December 12th, the seventh night of Chanukah, for the historic lighting of a grand Chanukah Menorah.

Town of Liberty Supervisor Charlie Barbuti, Sheriff Mike Schiff, Liberty Mayor Ron Stabak, Town of Liberty Councilman Russell Reeves, Legislator Luis Alvarez, Town of Liberty Judge Harold Bauman, Village of Liberty Police Chief Scott Kinne, Village of Liberty Trustee Joan Kanas Stoddard, community members and friends, joined with Rabbi Yossi and Esther Hurwitz of Chabad of Swan Lake for the festive ceremony.

The joyous crowd sang the blessings together, while manager of Shoprite Mr. John Rogan lit the ‘Shamash’ and president of presidential estate Mr. Bill Liblick lit the Menorah, with live music, dancing, dreidels, traditional Chanukah refreshments such as Latkes, donuts, and Chanukah gelt, the atmosphere could not have been more festive!

World renowned Cantor Aryeh Leib Hurwitz enthused the crowd with his singing, and received a screaming “We want more!” after every song.

In addition, an exciting fire juggler from London, UK, kept the crowd’s eyes glued to his theatrical moves.

Rabbi Yossi Hurwitz thanked Shoprite for all their assistance and involvement in this important holiday, saying, “I especially take off my hat for Shoprite manager John Rogan who extended all his help, working with me and arranging the Chanukah celebration to the last detail. I would never have pulled it off without him.” He also showed gratitude towards the elected officials, the Police, and the entire community for being a part of such an auspicious occasion, making the entire population of Liberty united as one community.

Rabbi Bentzion Chanowitz of Chabad of Monticello and Rabbi Zayanc of Chabad of Rock Hills, came specially for this celebration. Rabbi Chanowitz spoke about Chanukah’s message to add more light every day. He said “everyone should add a good deed every day, to make a better world.”

“The message of Chanukah is lighting up the darkness,” said Rabbi Hurwitz. “Everyone coming out tonight to celebrate Chanukah with such warmth and excitement has certainly lit up the mountains! Let’s continue being the spark in darkness until our rays of light brighten up the entire world.”

The atmosphere was happy and festive, the weather was unusually nice, and the joyous dancing went on for long hours. People returned home with high spirits, smiling faces and a warm Chanukah feeling.

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4 Comments

  • I was there

    Everything in the article is true, this shliach knows well the mayor, chief of police, and all other officials, I saw them trying to please Rabbi Hurwitz with everything they could, it was also very nice seeing the crowd dancing for a very long time

  • Wowwwo

    Rabbi Hurwitz, Where did you get ssoo manny people from?? I own a house in Lochsheldrake and make all my shopping in Shoprite, I never though its possible, Chabad is great…

  • amazing event

    Thanks for organizing this amazing event
    for the past three years
    A great Chazaka!
    Rabbi Ben Zion Chanowitz