Community leaders posed with children at the Merrick Chamber of Commerce’s Christmas tree and menorah lighting ceremony on Sunday, Dec. 7.
Donovan Berthoud/Herald Life
Families had fun at the ceremony. From left: Sara Charles, Madeline, 2, Chris and Brandon, 5.
Donovan Berthoud/Herald Life
Adam Jacobs held daughter Alexandra, 3.
Donovan Berthoud/Herald Life
State Senator-elect Michael Venditto spoke at the ceremony. State Assemblyman David McDonough listened, right.
Donovan Berthoud/Herald Life
Calhoun Key Club members Thomas Macaluso, Nicole Imhoh, Elijah Maduro, Phoebe Ma, Sophie Feldman, Matt Garber, Tracy Goldman and Christopher Reyes volunteered at the event.
Despite the chilly temperatures, dozens gathered on Sunday night in downtown Merrick to ring in the holidays with the lighting of the community’s large Christmas tree and menorah at Merrick Avenue and Veterans Memorial Plaza. Merrick Chamber of Commerce volunteers organize and run the annual event.
There was hot chocolate and munchkins, cookies and cupcakes, and family and friends enjoying spending time together. Local dignitaries offered remarks about the meaning of the holidays. Rabbi Scott Hoffman of Temple Israel of South Merrick assisted with the menorah lighting. Among the elected officials present were State Senator-elect Michael Venditto, State Assemblyman David McDonough, Nassau County Legislator Norma Gonsalves and County Legislator David Denenberg.
