A Short History of Hanukkah

This 8 day festival, which starts at sundown on December 14, commemorates events in Judea more than 2,000 years ago when the Syrian king Antiochus ordered the Jews to abandon the Torah and publicly worship the Greek gods.

This act provoked a rebellion led by Judas Maccabeus, climaxed by the retaking of the Temple in Jerusalem, which the Syrians had desecrated. The army of Jews won despite their small numbers.

In an 8-day celebration, the “Maccabees” (as the rebels came to be known) cleansed and rededicated the Temple. 

According to the Talmud, there was only enough consecrated oil to relight the candelabra for 1 day, yet, miraculously, it remained lit for 8 days.  Happy Hanukkah! 

Last Week At Rotary

Our speaker last week was Suzie Boyles, Economic Development Director for the City of Buckeye.  To summarize, there is a LOT going on in Buckeye from population growth to new retail and new employers.  Her presentation was very well received and there were more questions and discussion than there was time. Some takeaways:  We are not running short of water. Buckeye is very attractive to business because it has plenty of room to grow, good transportation infrastructure and a well-educated work force.  Buckeye is looking for growth with quality jobs and development.

Welcome New Member - Corporate Member ServPro of Buckeye

Last week we welcomed ServPro of Buckeye as a corporate member.  ServePro representative Anthony Sanchez was introduced by Doug Bredow.  Anthony is from Lake Havasu City.  He was referred to Rotary by Claudia Bredow who is always on the lookout for prospective members at the dog park and around Verrado.  Be like Claudia!  ServPro is also represented by Kylie Brown.  Welcome ServPro of Buckeye, Anthony and Kylie.

Welcome New Member - Winter Visiting Rotarian Russell Shapiro

Russell Shapiro is a retired Nurse Practioner and a member of the Rotary Club of Klamath Basin-Sunrise, Klamath Falls, Oregon.  Russell has been a Rotarian for 10 years and we are glad to have him join us when he is away from his home club enjoying the Arizona winter.  Welcome Russell.