Celebrating the Miracle of Hanukkah

Cleveland, Ohio (November 2007) The celebration of Hanukkah is a joyous reflection of the miracle that occurred 23 centuries ago, which marked the survival of the Jewish religion.

Hanukkah, which means “rededication” in Hebrew, offers Jews the opportunity to reconnect with this wondrous occurrence through time honored traditions such as the lighting of candles in the menorah and eating special foods cooked in oil. This year, those of the Jewish faith will celebrate Hanukkah from sundown on Tuesday, Dec. 4 through sundown on Wednesday, Dec. 12.

To assist in celebrating this important time, the greeting card aisle will feature fresh designs and more conversational copy to highlight the traditional images of the occasion this season.

Pam Fink, senior editor of the L’Chayim! To Life line at American Greetings, offers the following highlights of the newest cards for Hanukkah this year:

• Stylish twists on tradition: Iconic images such as the dreidel and menorah are adorned with updated colors and fun new designs reflecting the varied tastes of both senders and receivers this holiday season. More traditional offerings are also available featuring beautiful, classic depictions.

• Juvenile offerings: What better way to get the younger audiences into the holiday than with interactive cards for kids? These new offerings feature games and activities that children can enjoy while also learning a bit about the true meaning of the holiday.

• More humor: Humor has become a growing focus in the collection of cards for Hanukkah. As consumers warmed up to this lighter fare they expressed a desire for more topics and subjects. Available humorous sentiments this Hanukkah include a playful take on reality TV with “American Dreidel” and a short-and-sweet explanation as to why Frosty the Snowman and a menorah simply do not mix.

• Interfaith cards: With more than 22 million interfaith households in the United States, the holiday season is often a time of diverse celebrations. One common tactic that many of these families practice is to celebrate both Hanukkah and Christmas. Cards celebrating both holidays are a staple in this year’s line, including card packs to send multiple Christmas/Hanukkah greetings to family and friends.

The newest cards for Hanukkah and all winter holidays can found at participating drug chains, grocery stores and super centers nationwide, as well as in American Greetings and Carlton Cards retail stores.

About American Greetings Corporation
American Greetings Corporation (NYSE: AM) is one of the world's largest manufacturers of social expression products. Along with greeting cards, its product lines include gift wrap, party goods, stationery, calendars, ornaments and electronic greetings. Located in Cleveland, Ohio, American Greetings generates annual revenue of approximately $1.7 billion. For more information on the Company, visit http://corporate.americangreetings.com.