CHANUKAH PARTY

SATURDAY NIGHT
DECEMBER 12, 2015

The annual NHS Chanukah Party started at 6 pm in the lobby with the Havdalah ceremony. After some singing and dancing, with Rabbi Siff on the guitar, we moved into the Zorndorf Social Hall, where those who brought their own menorahs lit Chanukah candles.

After a musical interlude, with Rabbi Siff leading the singing, accompanied by Claire Lee on the piano, we enjoyed a festive meal featuring fried chicken, latkes, cole slaw and salad. Dessert consisted of elaborately decorated Chanukah cookies, a stuff your own soufganiyot (donuts) bar with a variety of fillings and fruit.

At 7 pm, the kids had a special program of games and arts and crafts, while the adults enjoyed an informative talk led by Dr. Ari Finkelstein, an Associate Professor in the University of Cincinnati's Judaic Studies department. Dr. Finkelstein talked about "The Many Faces of the Hasmoneans: From the Traditionalists to Hellenizers," exploring the true events behind the origins of Chanukah, as well as the aftermath and how Jews have struggled with assimilation over the centuries.

Photography by Gayna Bassin.

Havdalah (end of Shabbat) ceremony in the lobby.

Rabbi Siff playes the guitar at the Havdahah ceremony.

Tanya Siff led the dancing.

People enjoying the Havdalah ceremony.

Rabbi Siff and his daughter lit the NHS menorah.

Those who brought their own menorahs lit candles too.

The 7th night of Chanukah.

The dinner buffet included a hand washing station.

Dr. Ari Finkelstein talked about the Hasmonians, descendants of the Maccabees.

Rabbi Siff and Dr. Finkelstein answered questions after the presentation.

Soufganiyot!