Celebrating Israel’s Independence Day

There were many celebrations throughout the United States and Israel to honor Israeli Independence Day this year. Philadelphia, the birthplace of our nation, had a special event which drew 6,000 spectators to their waterfront.

A couple of months prior to the event, musically gifted individuals and groups were invited to submit tapes of themselves singing for the opportunity to compete for cash prizes and a chance to perform on stage at Penn’s Landing before thousands of people. The event was sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia and called Israel: A Song In Our Hearts.

All entries were posted on the Federation’s website and the public was invited to vote for their favorites. The three entries that received the highest number of votes in each category (17 and under, and 18 and over) were deemed finalists and invited to perform live on a big stage before a panel of judges. It was their own mini American Idol.

Before the finalists took the stage, there were inspiring speeches by leaders of Philadelphia’s Jewish community and music by the band Isramerica. There were also booths set up selling crafts and other fun items.

Finally, each contestant took the stage and performed a song about Israel. Two incredibly talented winners were crowned, each taking home a $500 prize.

The winner in the younger category was high school junior Danielle Lichter. Winning the over 18 category was college freshman Laura Warren, who was the only contestant to score a perfect 10 in every category. Both girls performed original songs. Remember their names, there’s no doubt you’ll be hearing them again soon. The day was a wonderful tribute to Israel on her 63rd birthday.

If you’re going to be in Philadelphia this summer, be sure to visit The Jewish Federation’s website: www.jewishphilly.org. There are always fun events happening.

The Jewish Federation is working to inspire participation in Jewish life and learning. They provide programs that help seniors to age with dignity. They connect Jews in Greater Philadelphia to each other and to Jews in Israel and around the world through Israel advocacy. They also offer hunger relief and support for Jewish seniors, children and immigrants in Israel and other nations.