Menorah lights up Bellmore

Religious leaders, local officials and residents celebrated the Festival of Lights with a special celebration at the community’s giant menorah on Wednesday, Dec. 17, sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce of the Bellmores.

The organization hosted its annual menorah-lighting ceremony at the beginning of Hanukkah. Bellmorites got into the spirit of the eight-day Jewish holiday, singing songs and enjoying festive treats in front of the 10-foot menorah.

Leaders of Bellmore synagogues spoke at the ceremony, offering prayers and well wishes. Elliott Joseph Yavneh, the Bellmore Jewish Center’s cantor, led attendees in song.

Music was an important part of the celebration, as the audience also listened to Hebrew and nursery school students’ performances of traditional Hanukkah songs. All youngsters in attendance enjoyed chocolate gelt and giveaways, courtesy of the chamber.

The menorah is at the veterans’ memorial between Bedford Avenue and Broadway. It is beside the community Christmas tree, which was lit earlier in the month.