Jerry Brown calls for solar-power ‘miracle’ at Capitol menorah lighting

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Gov. Jerry Brown led the annual ceremonial Capitol menorah lighting Monday, lamenting the use of an electric menorah instead of one with “real fire,” and using his brief remarks to compare the story of Hanukkah to his push for renewable energy.

“What a wonderful time to celebrate Hanukkah, and the festival of the lights and the whole idea that we’re running out of oil so we need a miracle,” Brown said to laughter and applause. “The miracle is to not use more oil but to utilize the sun ... to light up California.”

The ceremony, sponsored by Chabad of Calfornia, also underscored some of the differences between Brown and his predecessor. Former Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger seemed to revel in these types of ceremonial functions, staying on to celebrate and dance with the rabbis.

Brown stuck around long enough to hand out a few packets of chocolate-covered coins to members of the Pacific Boychoir, before making a quick return to his office.

When asked why he didn’t stay to dance the hora, Brown said, “Well, I can’t do everything.”

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-- Anthony York in Sacramento

Photo Credit: Anthony York / Los Angeles Times