Passover tradition

Jewish community leaders recently gathered at the Young Israel of Jamaica Estates synagogue to the annual sale of chametz in preparation for Passover. For the fifth year, Councilmember James Gennaro bought the chametz goy - leavened grain products - from the congregation, as well as other Jewish groups in the area for a down payment of $30. The selling of chametz is for many Jews an integral part of the eight-day holiday of Passover, which celebrates the deliverance of Jews from slavery in Egypt. The tradition ensures that families rid themselves of any possession of chametz through a ceremony and monetary transaction. After the holiday, Gennaro will sell the chametz back to the Jewish leaders from Young Israel of Pelham Parkway, Young Israel of Jamaica Park, the Hillcrest Jewish Center, Young Israel of Hollis Hills, the Utopia Jewish Center, and Young Israel of New Hyde Park.