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Mayor Reed, Public Officials Join in Hanukkah Candle-lighting at Capitol

Photography by Bonnie M. Morét _7749

Rabbi Levi Mentz, Alpharetta Mayor David Belle Isle, Chaya Mushka Children’s House Elementary Choir, Larry Miller, Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed, Sandy Springs Mayor Russell Paul, Rabbi Effie Ross and Rabbi Isser New.

City and state leaders joined a Hanukkah celebration filled with festive food, singing and candle-lighting on Thursday at the South Wing of the Georgia State Capitol.

Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed delivered a message of gratitude and blessings to the Jewish community at Thursday’s program, organized by Chabad of Georgia, a Jewish outreach organization and religious institution.

“I am honored to participate in this year’s Hanukkah celebration and ceremony to light the menorah with Chabad of Georgia, because it gives me the opportunity to recognize the contributions of our city’s Jewish community,” Reed said. “Hanukkah celebrates the spirit of resilience and dedication of the Jewish people who have faced adversity and persecution with fierce dedication. I extend my warmest wishes to all those celebrating Hanukkah in the City of Atlanta.”

Sandy Springs Mayor Russell Paul and Alpharetta Mayor David Belle Isle also participated in the ceremony, helping to light a six-foot menorah.

Prayers were delivered by Rabbi Yossi New, director of Chabad of Georgia, and his son, Isser New, both of whom are spiritual leaders at Congregation Beth Tefillah in Sandy Springs.

“Hanukkah is about the miracle of bringing light into darkness, and we are proud and inspired to share this holiday message of hope with the leaders of our great state and community,” said Rabbi Yossi New.

Following the ceremony, the menorah was transported to the grounds of Congregation Beth Tefillah in Sandy Springs.