Feliz Navidad & Happy Chanukah Ring Out at Local Fiesta

by Naomi Lowenthal; photos by Myra Hafetz

(December 13, 2007) Potato latkes and arroz con pollo were served side-by-side on Sunday night at the interfaith Christmas Fiesta hosted by Westchester Jewish Center (WJC) for clients of the Hispanic Resource Center (HRC). Approximately 300 people attended the celebration which took place at St. Thomas Church in Mamaroneck. Children were entertained by the “piñata lady” who taught them the history of the piñata and how to make their own.

Teen volunteers from WJC led the children in song, including “Feliz Navidad.” Rabbi Moishe Steigmann from WJC explained the story of Chanukah and how both Christmas and Chanukah have lights and miracles as part of their traditions.

Adults were treated to a performance by a troupe that demonstrated tijeras (scissors) dances from Peru. The dancers dressed in dazzling, traditional costumes were accompanied by violin and harp music.

At the end of the evening, the families received presents donated by members of WJC, including toys and gift cards to use at CVS and other local retailers.

Ruth Obernbreit Glass , one of the evening’s organizers, commented on the fiesta’s success, “We shared food and fellowship and learned about each others’ traditions.”

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