Contact: Colleen Roche (212) 788-2958 or Samantha I. Lugo (212) 788-9364
Today's celebration was attended by Joan Rivers, Alan King, Dr. Ruth Westheimer, Tony Randall, Jack Klugman, Judd Hirsh, Tovah Feldshuh and Neshama Carlebach, Max Weinberg, Ira Heller, and the Neginah Orchestra. Broadway paid tribute to Israel with a segment led by Deborah Gibson, who currently plays Bella in the Disney production of Beauty & The Beast, and numbers from "The Sound of Music" and "Forever Tango". Special performances of traditional and contemporary Israeli music and dance by student performers from throughout the City completed the artistic presentation.
"Today, we celebrate Israel's fifty years of history, democracy, and miracles. But the most meaningful way to measure Israel's history is through its people. The last 50 years are a testament to the strength of Israelis, to their persistence, and the hard work that has helped them to realize their dreams," the Mayor said.
"New York City has stood beside Israel in times of triumph and has supported her in times of tragedy. We have always felt a special bond with Israel because we believe in the same values of hope, democracy and opportunity. New York stands with Israel on this wonderful day. God willing we will stand together fifty years from now, with the dream of Israel, the reality of Israel - still inspiring us," the Mayor concluded.
1998 marks the 21st Anniversary of Jewish Heritage Week, honoring the history, culture, traditions and contributions of the Jewish people to New York City. The celebration coincides with Israel's 50th Anniversary, which is the focus of this year's festivities. The Bryant Park celebration was sponsored in part by J&R Music World/ J&R Computer World, Loreal, and Bell Atlantic.