New Hebrew Month of Kislev

The new Hebrew month of Kislev began Sunday, November 11. The Jewish festival of Chanukah, a holiday of freedom, begins on the 25th day of Kislev, and lasts for 8 days.

In the early 1940`s, for European Jews, freedom seemed far off, and it was. Nevertheless, in the transient camp of Westerbork in Holland, circa 1942, Jews did celebrate the lighting of the Chanukia - the lighting of the Chanukah candles.

My brother Albert, just about 10 years old at the time, can be seen (www.yadvasham.org) squeezed-in just to the right of the young man lighting the Chanukia. 

It would take another 3 1/2 years for Albert, and what was left of European Jewry, to once again experience the miracle freedom.

Veterans Day was also observed Sunday, November 11. Let us seriously honor the many millions of men and women who have served, and continue to serve our country, to protect our freedom and our way of life.

My very best wishes to you for a happy and joyful Thanksgiving Day holiday.

Fondly,
Marion