Despite the cold temperature, the Queens Jewish community recently witnessed the dazzling spectacle of the annual “Light Up the Night” Chanukah celebration, a unifying event that brought together 3,000 revelers from our diverse communities for the fifth consecutive year.
International singing sensation Gad Elbaz headlined the event, electrifying the crowd with a performance filled with excitement and fervor. The lighting of the menorah, a symbolic and central moment, was carried out by Rabbi Shmuel Kogan who, with his wife Shevy, are shluchim for the Bukharian community of Fresh Meadows and Jamaica Estates. Children contributed to the ceremony by reciting 12 customary p’sukim.
The crowd grew silent as Miri Ben-Ami, one of the mothers of an Israeli hostage currently held by Hamas terrorists, addressed the crowd. Everyone joined in T’hilim, praying for the safe return of her son, Yosef Chaim Ohana, together with every one of the captives in Gaza.
“When Rabbi Kogan ignited the timely flames of the over-12-foot menorah, the pride that I felt was overwhelming,” said Harold Moscowitz.
This year’s event introduced new elements, including a professional fireworks show that captivated the crowd. Major prizes, including a coveted PS5, were generously given away, and an interactive Kahoot game, with all participants competing against each other, engaged the entire audience, adding an extra layer of excitement to the celebration.
“Thank you for giving me one of the most memorable nights of my life,” reacted Neriya Davydov.
Despite the challenges posed by those attempting to disrupt the event, the collaborative efforts of the New York City Mayor’s Office, the NYPD, Queens Shmira, and the NYC Park Police ensured a secure and incident-free gathering. The substantial security measures provided a sense of safety, allowing attendees to focus on the festivities and come together as a community. The focus was on Jewish unity and Jewish pride: on how darkness is dispelled with the additive of light. The crowd went wild as they sang Am Yisrael Chai in unison!
In response to potential disruptions, the community displayed resilience and unity, doubling the number of participants compared to last year. The organizing committee, led by Ariel Shimunov, Jacob Herschkowitz, Simcha Sommers, Avrohom Asher Kogan, Avrohom Yagudayev, and Rabbi Shmuel Kogan himself, played a crucial role in fortifying the event against external disruptions and ensuring its continued success.
Special thanks to Senior Liaisons Moshe Davis and Mohamed Bahi of the NYC Mayor’s Community Affairs Unit; the local 107th Police Precinct, Inspector Richie Taylor, Commanding Officer of Community Affairs for the NYPD; Chief Phil Sparacio; and the entire NYC Parks Department, Queens Shmira, NYC Council Members Linda Lee and Jim Gennaro; and all the individual sponsors.
As the “Light Up the Night” Chanukah celebration is solidified as a fixture in Queens, it not only serves as a beacon of Jewish pride, but also exemplifies the strength of community bonds and the ability to overcome challenges, ensuring a bright and festive tradition for years to come.
The event is spearheaded by the Kogans, in partnership with Ganeinu Academy, Chabad Ohr Avner, Young Israel of Jamaica Estates, QJCC, Bukharian Jewish Community Center of Jamaica Estates, House of Torah, Young Israel of Holliswood, Bukharian Jewish Community Center of Queens, Young Israel of Hillcrest, and Bukharian Chai Center. The celebration has evolved into a cherished tradition extending beyond local boundaries to encompass the entire borough.
