by AJNews staff
(AJNews) – On Sunday Dec. 29, the Edmonton Jewish community, friends, families and allies joined Chabad of Edmonton in celebrating Chanukah at the Alberta Legislature Grounds. The joyous event was attended by leaders from within the Jewish community as well as dignitaries including Mayor Amarjeet Sohi, MLA’s Lorne Dach and David Shepherd, MP Kelly McCauley, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Nathan Cooper, City Councillor Tim Cartmell and others.
Master of Ceremonies for the evening was Mark Drelich and the formal program included speeches from Chabad of Edmonton Rabbi Ari Drelich, Jewish Federation of Edmonton board member Doug Wolch as well as heartfelt remarks from a number of the dignitaries. A highlight of the formal program was a presentation of the King Charles III Coronation Medal by MP McCauley to Rabbi Ari Drelich in recognition of his many contributions to the Jewish community and the community at large.
Performances by the Talmud Torah choir led by their teacher Ben Ragosin were thoroughly enjoyed by everyone in attendance in addition to musical performances by Dudy Drelich and Moshe Blachman.
Of course, the main event was the lighting of the Giant Menorah on the grounds of the Legislature. This marked the 33rd year that Rabbi Ari has been hoisted on a huge crane to light the majestic Giant Menorah. It is always an exciting moment!
Following the lighting, everyone gathered for a relaxed program with live music, opportunities to visit with friends and families, activities for the children, and delicious refreshments including latkes and sufganiyot.
The Krapfen (also called “Berliner”) were yummy. Never tasted such good ones outside of Germany.