Rabbi Avi Korer assists Carmel Supervisor Ken Schmitt in lighting the county’s official menorah
CARMEL – Chanukah, the Festival of Lights, was celebrated countywide in Putnam Tuesday night.
Menorah lightings were held in Carmel, Brewster and Cold Spring on the third night of Chanukah.
Rabbi Avi Korer of Putnam Chabad officiated at the ceremonies.
He reminded the 50 people gathered along the Gleneida lakeshore in frigid weather that “In the dark times, Hanukkah reminds us that we can bring light into the world while increasing light. It takes a single candle and each night for eight consecutive nights, Jews bring more and more light into the world. May it be that way for all of us!”
The rabbi said the menorah “gives us a message. It is a beacon of light amidst the darkness around us.”
Carmel Supervisor Kenneth Schmitt assisted in the menorah lighting along with Putnam District Attorney Robert Tendy. The festivities were also attended by Putnam County Judge James Reitz, State Assemblyman Kevin Byrne, Sheriff Robert Langley and County Clerk Michael Bartolotti.
Rabbi Korer gave special thanks to County Executive MaryEllen Odell for giving the congregation permission to place a menorah on the steps of the historic Putnam Courthouse.
Members of the Hamlet of Carmel Civic Association, which sponsors its annual Festival on the Lake of which the menorah lighting is a part, were also present.
Committee members Frank Chianca, Al Lotrecchiano, Lou Margolus and Wayne Ryder wished all residents of the community a Happy Chanukah, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
