A menorah made of Kind bars made up “the World’s Kindest Menorah”, kindled at Chabad of Clearwater’s annual Chanukah celebration. The bars were then used for another good purpose.
On Tuesday night, the third night of Chanukah, the “World’s Kindest Menorah” was kindled on Clearwater Beach in Clearwater, Florida, at Chabad of Clearwater’s annual Chanukah celebration.
Although the inclement weather resulted in a smaller-than-usual crowd and forced the program to move into the Surf Style parking garage, a great time was still had by all in attendance.
The event was graced by the presence of Clearwater Mayor Frank Hibbard and Chief of Police Dan Slaughter both of whom are true friends of the Jewish community.
In addition, a large number of members of the Clearwater Police were on hand ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone.
Mr. Steve Schwersky, past president of the Jewish Federation of Florida’s Gulf Coast was honored to light the unique menorah covered with hundreds of assorted KIND Bars. Mayor Hibbard was honored to light the Shamash.
In addition to the Menorah lighting, there was a Klezmer Music Concert, Juggling show, Gelt Drop by the Clearwater Fire Department, an appearance by ThunderBug the super popular Mascot of the Tampa Bay Lightning, special Clearwater Police vehicles, latkes, donuts and gift bags for the kids.
At the end of the event, the KIND bars were distributed with specific instructions. One was to be enjoyed personally, while a second should be taken and given as an act of kindness to a stranger or neighbor.
“Boruch Hashem, this year’s theme really resonated with everyone. May the collective acts of kindness that come about from this menorah lighting tip the scales and bring Moshiach now,” Chabad of Clearwater’s Director, Rabbi Levi Hodakov told Anash.org.
One participant messaged Rebbetzin Hodakov, ”It was so special and so meaningful. The theme with the KIND bars, the donuts the food, the Klezmer music was just beautiful.”
Local TV stations Fox13 and WFLA an NBC affiliate both featured reports on the nightly news.
Lead sponsors of the event were Surf Style, Jewish Federation of Florida’s Gulf Coast and Marvin and Linda Feldman.
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