Fair Lawn—This past Chanukah, Bris Avrohom placed 65 menorahs in public forums throughout the State of New Jersey. Included were many in Bergen County. At One Bergen County Plaza, in Hackensack, all county employees were invited to attend the menorah lighting ceremony. Hundreds of people showed up for the event.

The George Washington Bridge, the Lincoln Tunnel and Newark Airport, as well as the Goethals Bridge, Bayonne Bridge and Outerbridge Crossing, all invited Bris Avrohom to light a large public menorah at their New Jersey entrances. According to Port Authority estimates, 18 million passengers saw the light of a Bris Avrohom menorah during the eight days of Chanukah.

One of the highlights of Bris Avrohom’s Bergen County Chanukah activities was the carnival held at Bris Avrohom of Fair Lawn. Hundreds of children enjoyed “Chanukah in Chocolate Heaven” as they played games, went on rides and received gifts for the holiday. Rabbi Mendel and Elke Zaltzman distributed dollar bills and toys to each child in attendance.

Many Bergen County politicians also welcomed Bris Avrohom into their offices. Sheriff  Michael Saudino and State Senator Bob Gordon held menorah lightings in their offices. Traditional Chanukah doughnuts were served, as well.

Founded by the Lubavitcher Rebbe in 1979, Bris Avrohom was established to help the Russian Jewish immigrants who were settling in the metropolitan area. Dedicated to bringing assistance and Yiddishkeit to thousands of diverse families through education, programming, counselling and daily services, its goal is to help every Jew discover his heritage and grow to maturity within his Jewish community. Over the years, it has expanded its staff and activities, with branches located in Jersey City, Hillside, Fair Lawn, Brooklyn and Zhitomir, Ukraine.