From "Notes From Our Cantor"

Many of you have asked how Andrew's experience went when he sang at the White House back in December, 2006. I promised you an update and here it is! Andrew, along with 17 other students from Indiana University (IU), sang at the White House Chanukah party. The students, sponsored by IU Hillel and the IU Alumni Association, called themselves Hooshir (which means “a song” in Hebrew) and performed at the Chanukah candle lighting ceremony and Chanukah reception hosted by President and Mrs. Bush.

Andrew said it was one of the most exciting and memorable experiences of his life! The singers arrived in Washington, D.C. on Sunday. On Monday they traveled by taxi to the White House. They were dropped off at a predetermined spot and escorted to the side entrance. They went through security (no cameras, cell phones or recording devices allowed) and ushered into the East Wing. Risers were set up next to a beautiful Chanukah Menorah. The group took their places and waited for the arrival of the President and First Lady. Andrew was standing on one end of the risers. He saw in his peripheral vision the President and First Lady walking down the hallway ready to enter the room. There was a hush in the room and the air was charged with anticipation. The President walked in and spoke to guests about the holiday of Chanukah. The Hooshirs sang the Chanukah blessings and some Hebrew songs. Andrew said he was most impressed with Laura Bush, stating she was elegant and regal. (I was amazed Andrew, a 20 year old, was so affected by her presence.)

After the Chanukah candles were lit, the doors opened into a huge reception and the students sang more Hebrew songs as guests and celebrities entered the larger banquet room. After the Hooshirs sang, President Bush shook the students' hands and encouraged them to enjoy the party. Andrew (not ever needing encouragement to enjoy a party) loaded his plate high with potato latkes, brisket, chicken, kugel and "the most amazing desserts" he'd ever eaten. Everything was kosher and delicious! He helped himself to a glass of wine at the open bar (he was only 20 at the time). Later on, he proceeded to ask a Secret Service agent where the closest restroom was! He put a couple of paper guest towels from the rest room (they had the presidential seal on them) in his jacket pocket as a souvenir. He introduced himself to New York Mets baseball player Shawn Green and asked him to autograph one of the towels. Oy! What chutzpah!

The Hooshirs were the last to leave the party … Andrew had to enjoy just one more dessert … and they returned to IU in Bloomington with awesome memories of their Chanukah at the White House. It was an experience these young people will never forget!

- Cantor Amy Zussman

- Re-printed from the May, 2007 Covenant