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Mayor Hosts Annual Hanukkah Menorah Lighting In Manhattan Mayor Michael Bloomberg recently hosted New York City’s annual lighting of the Hanukkah Menorah in the Surrogate Courthouse Atrium in Lower Manhattan. Hanukkah, also called "The Festival of Lights," commemorates the victory of the Jewish people over religious oppression in the time of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. Mayor’s Community Assistance Unit Commissioner Jonathan Greenspun, Flatbush Park Jewish Center Rabbi David Halpern, Jewish Community Relations Council Executive Vice President Michael Miller, and UJA-Federation of New York Chairman Morris Offit joined the Mayor at tonight’s celebration. "Like the miracle of the flame that would not go out, the spirit of our City persevered during two of our most challenging years, and we got through these tough times together," said Mayor Bloomberg. "All signs show that things are looking up, and that brighter economic days are just around the corner. But while Hanukkah is one of the happiest holidays for Jews around the world, we cannot forget the people across the globe who have suffered from terrorism. Hanukkah reminds us of the strength that comes with faith. And nowhere is that strength more prevalent than in Israel, where I had the pleasure of visiting twice during the last year. This time of year is a time for celebration but I want to make one thing clear: No matter what the opponents of peace and freedom do, they will not shake our will to defend our liberties and our way of life. I want to thank you all for coming, not only do you help strengthen communities throughout the five boroughs, you help preserve and celebrate our city’s remarkably rich Jewish heritage, which is what tonight is all about." During the ceremony, Rabbi David Halpern of the Flatbush Park Jewish Center lit the Shamash (center candle), followed by youngsters from Manhattan, The Bronx, Queens and Staten Island, who took turns lighting a candle on the menorah. The Klezmer Mountain Boys also performed traditional holiday music. The UJA-Fed-eration of New York sponsored the event, and Noah’s Ark Deli provided the food and beverage.
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