This year, in honor of Chanukah, Chabad of Merrick, Bellmore and Wantagh is planning a Great Menorah Car Parade for the first night of Chanukah, Tuesday, December 20, at 6:30 p.m., led by four U.S. soldiers from the 169th Infantry Division in a Humvee and gun truck, along with two limousines, leading to the lighting of the Merrick Chamber’s 12-foot Menorah!
   
Participants will spread the light of Chanukah as they travel in convoy from the Merrick Golf Course parking lot to the Merrick railroad station on Sunrise Highway and Merrick Avenue, culminating in the kindling of the 12-foot Menorah. Dignitaries and community leaders will give their greetings at this special lighting ceremony. There will be live music by Azamra DJ, hot latkes, Jelly doughnuts and dancing!
   
Chanukah, a celebration for all time, is highlighted by the kindling of the Menorah each night of the holiday. “It is a holiday that enriches our lives with the light of tradition,” said Rabbi Shimon Kramer, director of Chabad Center for Jewish Life.
   
“In ancient times our ancestors rededicated the temple in Jerusalem with the Menorah. Today, through the Great Menorah Car Parade, we hope to rededicate ourselves to making this world a better and brighter place, as we parade through the streets of Merrick and Bellmore, sharing the light and joy of Chanukah!”
   
Chanukah also propagates the universal message that ultimately good will prevail over evil, freedom over oppression and light over darkness.
   
For  information and details on the Chanukah events, contact Raizy or Chanie at the Chabad Center for Jewish Life,  833-3057 or visit www.ChabadJewishLife.org or you can e-mail programs@chabadjewishlife.org.