MAYOR PEREZ’S CHANUKAH MESSAGE

---MEDIA RELEASE---

(December 4, 2007)--- Hartford Mayor Eddie A. Perez sends warm greetings as he wishes the region a Happy Chanukah this Holiday Season.  Chanukah starts tonight at sundown.  It is the time when people of the Jewish faith in Hartford and around the world celebrate “The Festival of Lights.”

Mayor Perez says, “Hartford’s rich diversity rings so clearly during the Holiday Season.  It is a time when all of our residents from all of our varied cultures and backgrounds share customs and traditions so graciously with one another--- many focusing on family.  For our residents who celebrate Chanukah, cherish your family and faith with all your heart and honor your history and heritage with pride.  This is a truly a time of joy!”

Chanukah begins on the 25^th day of the Hebrew month of Kislev.  This is a celebration of the victory of the Maccabees and the rededication of the Jewish Temple.  It also commemorates the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days.  According to Jewish beliefs, Judah and the Maccabees had a tiny jug of oil, with only enough oil to last a single day, but instead, it burned for eight.  Today, this is symbolized as families light the Holiday Menorah.