The weather forecast in Monroe, New York on the 3rd night of Chanukah: Raining Chanukah Gelt! Thousands of Chanukah Gelt Chocolate Coins rained from atop of a ladder of a fire truck.
The Monroe Fire department poured the huge bucket of “gelt” on over one hundred excited children who came from all areas of the county, many holding huge bags and baskets to “catch lots of gelt.” Squeals of excitement and cheering ensued as the gelt came pouring down.
At Chabad of Orange County’s community Monroe Menorah lighting, many people braved the cold and wind to experience the fun Gelt Drop.
Following the Gelt Drop, a community Menorah Lighting Ceremony was held. Officials from the Village of Monroe and Mr. Ari Felberman representing the Village of Kiryas Joel lit the menorah. The Monroe Fire Chief lit the shamash. “Usually the fire department puts out fires,” joked Rabbi Pesach Burston, director of Chabad of Orange County who sponsored the event, “but tonight the fire department is lighting the fire.”
Various Branches, One Menorah
Rabbi Pesach and Chana Burston welcomed the participants of the various villages that make up the Town of Monroe (which include the Villages of Monroe, Kiryas Joel and Harriman). “A community is like a menorah,” explained Burston. “There may be various ‘branches’ – some may be far to the ‘right’ others far to the ‘left’ – but we are all part of the same menorah of light!”
After the ceremony, celebrants enjoyed schmoozing over hot cocoa, latkes and doughnuts in the park gazebo.
