The Chanukah Telethon aired this week featured a first for television – a Pidyon HaBen – the redemption of the [first born] son – for a 12-year-old boy whose parents had never completed the ceremony.
“Just a few days ago, the family called me about what they should do about performing this Mitzvah for their son,” said Rabbi Anchelle Perl, Shliach to Mineola, NY and the annual Chanukah Telethon host. “I told them, no problem, it’s not too late, come share this Mitzvah with our 12 million viewers on the upcoming Chanukah Telethon!”
The evening showcased special honors to Hurricane Sandy Survivors, First Responders and the dramatic moving story of Mitka Kalinski, a holocaust survivor who was the child slave to a Nazi.
The telethon also recognized the families of two Nassau County cops who were tragically killed, days apart, Police Officers Arthur Lopez and Joseph Olivieri.
County Executive Edward Mangano, Major Chuck Kilbride and renowned health industry leaders Brad Markowitz, Michael New and Dr. Mitchel Wolfson, took center stage for their support and friendship of Chabad.
The Dancing Rabbis, first class entertainment, the Neshoma Ochestras, a latke eating contest, all added to an uplifting evening of support helping so many who have fallen between the cracks during these difficult times.
