Lighting Up Mamilla Avenue

Monday, the 6th night of Chanukah, Chabad Center of Talbiya paid tribute to Zaka and Holocaust survivors, heroes in our troubled times.

Chazan Dovid Caytak sang heart-stirring melodies, which touched all those present.

On the seventh night of the celebration, which was dedicated to families of victims of terror, the Alrov Mamilla Avenue and Mamilla Hotels Mr. Alfred Akirov joined with Mr. Rami Levi as guests of honor. Gabi Mandel lit a candle remembering his brother Kobi, murdered 11 years ago in Tekoa.

Mr. Alfred Akirov, the man who had built the Avenue to resemble the look and ambience of Paris’ “Le Champs Elysees” certainly did not have a Kosher Menorah in mind when planning the architecture of the high-end, outdoor shopping street.

Three years ago, Talbiya Shluchim Rabbi Eli and Chana Canterman had to work hard to obtain consent for the lighting of the Menorah in the area.

This year, says Rabbi Eli Canterman, their third year doing so, was a “Chazaka.” “Mr. Akirov, having seen photos and video of the last two years celebrations, agreed to join the lighting as well, marking the lighting as an annual fixture on Mamilla Avenue.”

As a proud Jew, Akirov recited the blessings and lit the first candle.

Famed singer Avi Piamenta of Kfar Chabad rocked the avenue with his singing afterwards.

The last night of Chanukah was dedicated to honoring the many Chesed organizations. United Hatzalah, Yad Sarah and Nefesh B’Nefesh were among the organizations acknowledged for all they do for the Jewish people.

The last night of Chanukah was truly a “Grand Finale” to the week of celebrations, with singer Shlomo Katz leading everyone present in an evening of singing and dancing that no one wanted to end.

Major General Doron Almog, founder and Chairman of Aleh Negev Nachlat Eran, spoke movingly about faith, endurance, and of the need to have a better world built on acts of kindness.