AJCC to host Latke Dinner
Event is open to all as part of Hanukkah
The Augusta Jewish Community Center will hold their annual Community Latke (potato pancake) Dinner at 5:30 p.m. Sunday -- the sixth night of Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival of Lights.
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"The celebration of Hanukkah runs for eight days, and is to commemorate the miracle of the oil used to light the Eternal Light in the temple," said Program Director Alberta Goldberg. "The Eternal Light (known as the N'Er Tamid) is present in every Jewish house of worship, and should never be extinguished."
Goldberg added that the dinner is open to everyone, and is a great way for the local community to learn about and take part in the historical celebration known as Hanukkah.
"Many centuries ago," she explained, "after the Maccabees had driven the Syrians out of the temple and cleaned and purified it, there was only enough oil left in the jar to burn for one day. But miraculously, the oil burned continually for eight days, the amount of time it takes to make more oil. So during the celebration of Hanukkah, we use things cooked in oil in remembrance."
In addition to the latkes, which will be served with applesauce, the night's menu will include poached salmon, salad and dessert.
"It will be a delicious meal, and fun for everyone," Goldberg said. "We will be lighting menorahs, and anyone who does not have one will be provided one; we have some extras. Also, Loretta Levi will be leading Hanukkah songs and there will be dreidels, gelt coins, and gifts for the children."
Reservations are required to attend the dinner, and can be made by phone. The cost is $12 for adults, $10 for AJCC members; $8 for children ages 4-12, $6 for children of AJCC members and children under 4 are free. There is also a special family maximum of $45, or $30 for AJCC members.
The Augusta Jewish Community Center is located at 898 Weinberger Way, off Furys Ferry Road near Riverside Middle School, in Evans. For information, call Alberta Goldberg at (706) 228-3636.