Coral Springs Lit Up by Menorah Parade

On December 26th, the 3rd Night of Chanukah, the Chabad community of Coral Springs lit up the night with a grand Menorah parade.

by Nechama Gutman

With more than 40 cars leading the way to our Chanukah Extravaganza event in the park our Car Menorah Parade was truly was Inspiring. The city was at a complete standstill as they watched the Parade go by led by the Coral Springs Police Department. On lookers honked, waived and shouted in solidarity. While the cars passed by on the street the Mesivta of Coral Springs walked up and down the local outdoor shopping centers simultaneously handing out Menorahs to all those who needed, and invitations to join in our Chanukah Concert in the park, making sure not a single Jew would be left out of the festivities .

It really was spectacular sight to see so many Menorahs proudly on display, truly lighting the night. It was breathtaking to know that we Jews, so few in numbers, who have spent centuries under persecution can proudly show the world, we are here, we are alive, we will prevail and change the world. Our children were proud, our Coral Springs Florida Community was proud, and certainly the Rebbe’s Campaign of Pirsumei Nisa – Chanukah Awareness was in full effect.

Our parade led us straight to the Park for a concert by the “Rogers Park Band” out of Chicago. In true Florida style we sat on blankets in the park in December listening to music, lighting the Menorah, eating sufganiyot and dancing with friends.Connections were made, new friends were invited to Shabbos meals and the park became one people instead of a group of strangers.

This is what our little community of Coral Springs is about; bringing yiddishkeit to the world, inviting others in, welcoming fellow Jews regardless of their background or where they come from. It’s the beauty of Coral Springs Chabad  that brings us all together. Whether you wore your Kapatah, your jacket, your ripped jeans and your T-shirt you are welcome and truly belong. Just come, smile, light a candle and know that you like me are part of something greater. The beauty of Chanukah adding light into this world, is the center of our very being here. It is our job to spread goodness, acceptance and the light from above to all those we meet. With this night we did exactly that.

The event put together by all of the Shluchim and Chabad Centers of Coral Springs under the guidance of Rabbi Yossie Denburg, head Shliach of Coral Springs, FL,, was truly something we will all remember. Special mention to Rabbi Avraham Friedman, Rabbi Yankie Denburg, Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka Yaras, Mrs.Nechama Gutman and Mr.Fishy Vail for coordinating and planning and ensuring this parade and concert event was the best the city has ever seen.

Onwards and upwards.

Photos by David Levi