Staten Island Mall Menorah Lighting Illuminates Hope, Unity, and Resilience

Edited by: TJVNews.com

In a heartwarming display of unity and resilience, hundreds of children and families gathered at the Staten Island Mall on Sunday, December 10, 2023, for the annual Menorah lighting ceremony, a cherished tradition sponsored by the Council of Jewish Organizations of Staten Island (COJO) and hosted by Chabad Lubavitch of Staten Island.

Against the backdrop of crafts for kids, sizzling latkes, delectable donuts, and an abundance of Chanukah cheer, Rabbi Moshe Katzman of Chabad Lubavitch of Staten Island presided over the ceremony, delivering a poignant message of hope and inspiration to the community. COJO President, Mendy Mirocznik, expressed gratitude, hailing the event as a beacon of light amid challenging times.

“In the face of global turmoil and rising anti-Semitism, Rabbi Katzman’s Menorah Lighting is an amazing event, resonating with significance as we stand in solidarity with Israel as she finds herself in her battles for survival against Hamas and we as a people confront the shadows of anti-Semitism and hatred,” remarked Mirocznik. “The Menorah’s light symbolizes our strength to endure, echoing the resilience of the Jewish people throughout history. Rabbi Katzman has uplifted Staten Island’s spirit, fostering optimism in our hearts that we, too, will overcome challenges and emerge into a brighter future.” The light of the Menorah as Rabbi Katzman explains gives us the light to survive as a people and just as the Jewish people have survived all adversity and challenges throughout the ages we shall continue to use the Menorah light to lead to a bright future of peace, tranquility and hope.”

Mirocznik extended heartfelt appreciation to Jim Easley, Manager of Staten Island Mall, for his gracious hospitality and commitment to upholding the tradition of having another successful and glorious Menorah Lighting at the mall.  Acknowledging the indispensable role of law enforcement, Mirocznik lauded the NYPD, describing them as modern-day Maccabees and expressing gratitude for their unwavering dedication to public safety.

Mirocznik thanked the NYPD; Chief Joseph Gulotta, NYPD Staten Island borough commander; Inspector Eric Waldhelm; commanding officer, Precinct,  121; and to his wonderful officers Lt. Edward Ranieri; Sgt. Kevin Fitzgerald; Sgt. Craig Spataro; Officer Jessica Kaur; Officer Ryan Mcavoy; Officer Joanna Vourakis; and Community Affairs Officer Scott Gusenfitter for participating and enhancing the Chanukah cheer. Mirocznik also thanked Officer Mike Ramos, Staten Island Mall Security and Ari Weiss, COJO, security chairman, and coordinator, Staten Island Shomrim for their partnership in making this a fun and safe Menorah Lighting.

Mirocznik quipped, “we at COJO appreciate our partnership with the NYPD whom we consider to be our modern-day Maccabees. We are proud to include the NYPD in all our programs and events as a key partner and we want you to know that we are aware that no matter what hour of the day it may be or day of the week it is the NYPD is always there for Staten Island in protecting and making Staten Island safe for all people. We at COJO want you to know your efforts in maintaining public safety is noticed and appreciated and thanks to your efforts we are able to have such important community gatherings as the Menorah Lighting at the mall. We truly look forward to increasing our collaborative efforts and to the further enhancement of the quality of life for Staten Island.”

Mirocznik then thanked Manisha Franklin, Gary Tai, and Carina Vizhnay, the great gang from Empire BlueCross BlueShield for their generous sponsorship that helped make the Staten Island Mall Menorah Lighting possible. Mirocznik reserved special appreciation for Scott Maurer, CEO and Executive Vice President of COJO, recognizing him as the backbone of the Staten Island community.

Despite inclement weather, the Menorah flame burned brightly, undeterred by the cold and wind. Mirocznik concluded, “Our Chanukah spirit remains undiminished. This ancient Menorah light is a force of hope and inspiration, and today’s unity reinforces our strength. I know that our strength comes from the unity we expressed and experienced today at this Mall Menorah Lighting and I know, believe and feel in my heart that together we will prevail and happy days will return.”