By Michael P. Walsh
Special to the Voice
Rabbi Schneur Wilhelm of Chabad of Milford-Hebrew Congregation of Woodmont was joined on the West Haven Green by Mayor Dorinda Borer to celebrate the third night of Hanukkah on Dec. 16.
Wilhelm led an assembly of three dozen West Haven leaders and residents of all ages in a blessing before lighting the menorah with Borer on the Main Street side of the downtown park.
The lighting marked the third night of the Jewish Festival of Lights, an eight-day commemoration of rededication of the Temple by the Maccabees after their victory over the Syrians.
In his blessing, Wilhelm provided a history lesson on the Festival of Lights and underscored the importance of hope to make the world a holier and more peaceful place.
The annual ceremony also featured remarks by Borer.
“Hanukkah reminds us that even a small light can push back darkness,” the mayor said. “It teaches us about perseverance, faith and miracles in difficult times.
“Here in West Haven, we see that same spirit — neighbors supporting neighbors, different faiths and backgrounds coming together, our community’s resilience shining through challenges. This menorah represents not just one tradition but our shared values of hope and unity.”
Wilhelm’s children Rochel, 16, Devoroah, 11, and Sholom, 8, handed out chocolate coins wrapped in gold foil, known as gelt, and jelly doughnuts, known as sufganiyot.
Retired West Haven police Detective Sgt. Marvin Kasowitz and longtime city residents Tova Brinn, Steve Greene and Mark Levine participated in the half-hour festivity.
Other attendees included Borer chief of staff Rick Spreyer, city Economic Development Director Steve Fontana and grant writer Olivia Bissanti, and City Council members Nancy Tagliatela, D-2, Gary Donovan, D-4, and David Beaton, D-9.
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