Rabbi Yossi Lipsker blew into the shofar. A long blast.

A police siren sounded in the distance. It was the first time the rabbi had harmonized with a siren, he said.

Shofar, siren and encouraging words started Sunday morning's Chanukah Run-A-Latke on Burrill Street.

"In keeping with tradition, we run to do a good deed," encouraged the rabbi.

Fifty participants leaned forward in front of Chabad Lubavitch and swept over the street bound for Fisherman's Beach and beyond. And back.

While runners ran, children assembled the Lego menorah inside the shul.

In 20 to 40 minutes the runners returned for jelly donuts, latkes and the lighting of the Lego menorah.

Back first was Swampscott High senior Jake Powell.

Inside the shul the Lego team leader tapped the Menorah top into place and the rabbi led the gathering in song.

The light-filled celebration grew brighter as he lit a candle and a small vessel of oil.

Happy Hanukkah.