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Boreal Community Media

Cook County Jewish Community Celebrates Chanukah

Dec 14, 2017 02:01PM ● By Editor

Group Photo from Chanukah celebration.  Photo by Janice Latz

Cook County Jewish Community Celebrates Chanukah

Members of the Cook County Jewish Community celebrated the 2nd night of Chanukah on December 13th with a traditional evening at the home of Yafa Napadensky and Bob Shannon.  Chanukah is a Jewish holiday commemorating a victory over a tyrant king and the re-dedication of the Temple after it’s desecration.  During the eight nights of Chanukah, Jews light menorah candles to symbolize the miracle of a small vial of sacred olive oil that burned for eight days, illuminating the Temple until a new supply could be made. 

Chanukah follows a lunar calendar.  During some years it overlaps with Christmas, thus giving the holiday a prominent role in the Christian and Jewish calendars. 

Chanukah in Cook County included Menorah lighting, songs, stories and games. No celebration is complete without a meal. Latkes, fried potato pancakes, are the traditional fare. The oil used in their preparation also commemorates the miracle. Cook County Jews continued the tradition with an abundance of latkes prepared by Bob Pranis and Veronica Weadock. Guests contributed traditional toppings, along with side dishes and desserts.

The small and vibrant Jewish community of Cook County meets regularly to celebrate key Jewish holidays and traditions.  They also maintain cordial relations with Temple Israel in Duluth and Shaarey Shomayim in Thunder Bay. 

For more information contact Gary Latz at 832-364-0310 or [email protected]




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