Proclamation Chanukah - The Festival of Lights Week Lee County Commissioner Chair Cecil Pendergrass

Okay. So, we'd like to uh welcome Lee County Southwest Florida Commissioner Cecil Pendergrass. Did I pronounce it right? >> Cecil, that's fine. Ceil Ceile. >> Ceil Pendigrass who came here to the Kabad handd deliver a beautiful proclamation from the county that is going to be read at the Kaneka event. Um unfortunately, he's not going to be able to be there, but he has a special story he wants to tell you about where the Kaneka event is taking place. Well, it's just, you know, personally on Lee County. Lee County support the Jewish community. So, we want to make sure we provide support. And the location going to be actually that's where my home place was. I grew up there as a child. My parents had a restaurant there there on First Street. And early on in the 60s, I lived upstairs in that restaurant with my parents for for a few years. And uh it's symbolic that you're holding that festival there that day, celebration of life. So, thank you again for that. And Lee County supports the Jewish community. >> Well, thank you so much for everything you're doing for our community. You're amazing. and we appreciate the proclamation. Do you want to read the proclamation? >> Sure. Yes, >> sure. Go for it. >> If you could, please. I didn't bring my glasses in with me. I'm sorry. I have my glasses. Bo board of county commissioners Lee County, Florida proclamation. Whereas the Jewish holiday of Kaneka, also known as the festival of lights, commemorates the historic victory of the Mcabes and the rededication of the holy temple Jerusalem more than two millennium ago. And whereas Khaneka celebrates the enduring miracle in which a single cruise of oil enough for one day burnt for eight days symbolizing unwaering faith, resilience, and the triumph of spiritual light. And whereas the manora has become a universal beacon of hope and freedom, representing the victory of light over darkness, goodness over adversity, and unity over the vision. And whereas Kabad Lab of Southwest Florida under the leadership of Rabbi Yezakani Minkitz has long served the residents of Lee County by promoting Jewish education values and tradition. and by fostering unity, kindness, and spiritual enrichment among people of all backgrounds. And whereas through their ongoing dedication and community services, Rabi Isuk and Shani Minkitz have helped strengthen the spiritual and cultural fabric of Lee County, inspiring countless acts of goodness, compassion, and connection. And whereas with the efforts of Kabal Babage Salis, Florida and the Minquist family, this year marks a historic milestone as a public Khan Manura will be proudly displayed in downtown Fort Marge on public property reflecting the Lee County commitment to diversity, inclusion, and religious freedom. And whereas the lighting of the Monura brings together families, neighbors, and leaders from all walks of life, uplifting the community and celebrating the shared values that that unite Lee County. And whereas the eighth night grand manora lighting organized by Kabal of Southwest, Florida and taking place on December 21st, 2025 at 4 p.m. at Common Ground Paka Park will gather community members and dignitaries for a meaningful and joyous celebration. Now therefore, be it resolved that the border county commissioners of Lee County, Florida, does hereby proclaim December 14th to 22nd, 2025, as Kaneka, the festival of lights week throughout Lee County and encourages all residents to join in recognizing the timeless message of Kaneka that even the smallest light has the power to illuminate and transform the world. duly executed this 21st day of December 2025 board of county commissioners Lee County Florida chairman which is Cecil >> who came here personally to deliver to us we're very very grateful for the proclamation we're very very grateful for the support and Lee County is amazing and thank you for making it an amazing place for us to live and to be happy >> thank we're here for you thank you >> thank you very