Over 250 men, women, and children gathered at the menorah lighting held by Rabbi Levi Hodakov of Chabad of Clearwater.
On Thursday, the 1st night of Chanukah, a crowd of 250 men, women, and children from across Pinellas County gathered at the beautiful Coachman Park in Downtown Clearwater for Chabad’s Mega Chanukah Celebration held by Rabbi Levi Hodakov.
Amidst gorgeous weather and the setting sun, guests enjoyed a concert by Yitzchok Friedman from Brooklyn, NY, a show by Nerdy Noah, Clearwater Fire Department Gelt Drop, a performance by children from Chabad’s Hebrew School, Tampa Bay Lightning Mascot ThunderBug, delicious hot latkes, and a variety of donuts.
The highlight of the evening was the kindling of a one-of-a-kind custom built, 7-foot-tall Magen Dovid Menorah. Mr. Mike White was honored with reciting the Brochos and lighting the Menorah.
The event was graced with the presence of Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri, Clearwater Mayor Brian Aungst, Clearwater Police Chief Eric Gandy, members of the City Council, City Manager Jennifer Poirrier, Assistant City manager Dan Slaughter, and Commissioners Latlava and Eggers.
The Sheriff, Mayor and Police Chief all addressed the crowd with greetings and were honored with lighting the shamash.
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