Rabbis gather in Whitefish to offer thanks
Gov. Steve Bullock, right, accepts a menorah from Rabbi Francine Roston and Rabbi Allen Secher on March 6 during a gathering in Whitefish. (Photo provided)
Forty-two rabbis from around the country and Canada gathered at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish on March 6 for a private celebration.
Sponsored by Glacier Jewish Community/B’nai Shalom, the event was planned to thank the city of Whitefish as well as residents throughout Flathead Valley and the state for offering support and standing in solidarity with the Jewish community and Whitefish businesses when they were attacked by an anti-Semitic internet “troll storm” earlier this winter.
The “Celebration of Community” event acknowledged and honored the support, providing an opportunity to formally thank everyone. Representatives from the Glacier Jewish Community made presentations to Whitefish councilman Richard Hildner and Montana Gov. Steve Bullock. Glacier Jewish Community gave each a Hanukkah menorah made of Jerusalem stone.
Due to sensitivity and security issues, participants were asked not to share the event on social media and no press members were allowed to attend the event.