Although a Jewish holiday, the message of Chanukah is universal. A small group of brave men led by Yehuda Ha- Maccabi fought a large powerful army for the right to practice their religion. Freedom of religion is the pillar of a democratic society. I look forward to seeing all the menorahs on the cars in the neighborhood. It helps bring the holiday spirit to everyone.

This past summer I had the opportunity to visit Israel. I see in the news that on the very same streets where I walked in Jerusalem innocent Israelis are being stabbed to death simply because they are Jewish. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims of these attacks, their families and all my friends in Israel.