MONTICELLO — Monticello’s Chanukah celebrations will receive a significant boost this year as two seven-foot Menorahs are erected, one in the Shoprite of Monticello and the other in Mountain Mall Plaza. A special celebration - will be held on three different days of chanukah, see flyer below. 

It’s a fraught time for the Jewish people, with war in Israel, and with American Jews facing a major rise in antisemitism. While in the past, prior to Oct. 7, many Jews’ response to frightening developments of antisemitism may have been to hide their Jewishness, the post-Oct. 7 Jewish communal response has bucked all precedents. Jews are choosing instead to celebrate their identity this Hanukkah with more confidence and resolve.

“Chanukah’s a time for celebrating the freedom to openly celebrate our values; this Menorah proclaims that message to the world”, said Rabbi Yosef Chanowitz, Director of the Monticello based Chabad, “we appreciate the support of local businesses including management of ShopRite and Mountain Mall as well as the village of Monticello to bring a comprehensive Holiday spirit to the town. During this dark time, it’s more important than ever to stand together with Jewish pride and shine the light!” 

The Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, of righteous memory, launched the Hanukkah awareness campaign 50 years ago, in 1973—in the aftermath of the Yom Kippur War in Israel—and in the half-century since, the “Festival of Lights” has revitalized widespread observance of Hanukkah and brought it to the mainstream. The Menorah, and indeed Hanukkah—with its universal message of freedom of the human spirit, freedom from tyranny and oppression, and of the ultimate victory of good over evil—has as a result become a part of American culture.

“The Rebbe taught that not only is celebrating Hanukkah a vital part of Jewish life–where it has become a potent point of light and Jewish pride and confidence for American Jews in the fight against darkness and antisemitism–but also represents key American values, namely those of liberty and independence,” said Rabbi Yosef Chanowitz. “The holiday of Hanukkah underscores the fact that American culture has been enriched by the thriving ethnic cultures which contributed very much, each in its own way, to communal life, both materially and spiritually.”

Light refreshments and chocolate Chanukah ‘gelt’ will be available during the Chanukah events. The entire community is invited for these momentous events. For more information, please call Rabbi Yosef Chanowitz at 347-331-4155.

Media Notice: The event is open to all reporters, journalists and photographers; your coverage is invited. Rabbi Yosef and Shternie Chanowitz will be on hand to answer questions afterwards.