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The local Jewish community had many reasons to celebrate and that’s what they did at the 9^th Annapolis Jewish Festival held at the Annapolis Middle School on Sunday, November 6^th, 2005. About 2,000 people came out to enjoy the fantastic entertainment, delicious food, educational and fun children’s activities, and international and local vendors, all with a Judaic flair.

The day started with the color guard from the Jewish War Veterans of Annapolis Post 380 and Leslie Gradet of Annapolis singing a magnificent rendition of the Star Spangled Banner. Next was a most heart-warming rendition of Hatikvah by the children of the Aleph Bet Jewish Day School. Finally, the Festival opened with the warm welcome delivered by the Anne Arundel County Executive, Janet Owens.

The entertainment was just exceptional. There were two sessions presented by the Kol Haruach Orchestra and magnificent show by the A cappella group, Makela. Additionally, Ethan Halpern entertained the crowd and invited their participation with his Israeli Dance Troupe. The food was catered for the first time, done expertly by L&H Delicatessen of Greenbelt, all kashered by Rabbi Nachum Light of the local Chabad Lubavitch. The vendors were from everywhere, Israel to Annapolis, selling art and jewelry to dolls and toys, but all with Judaic theme. Lastly were unbeatable children’s programs enjoyed by many more than just children. The theme was the art of Marc Chagall, allowing the children to learn of the multitude of media used by this incredible Jewish artist and how they can experiment with the same media. Additionally, there were fun games for the kids with countless prizes.

This was the first of the Annapolis Jewish Festivals operated by a tremendous representation of volunteers from all 11 member organizations of the sponsor, the United Jewish Council of Anne Arundel County. Ellery Wolf, for the third time, magnificently coordinated the vendors while Ellyn Becker was unbelievable with her coordination of volunteers. Amy Handelman superbly arranged for the entertainment, Larry Snyder most professionally, generously, and expertly provided logistical support and Debbie Wood used her brilliant professionalism and creativity to arrange the children’s programs. Donna Baugus, a newcomer to the Festival Committee, expertly coordinated the food and children’s games, while Carol Katz outdid herself laying out the Program Book. Nancy Gordon aggressively but compassionately raised much-needed funds through her marketing and development while Harry Ballman tirelessly coordinated for countless critical details to ensure the Festival’s success. Earl Diamond used his expertise in electronics to ensure communications and sound were at the perfect level, while Mike Snyder provided critical counsel, balanced the books, and contributed everywhere to ensure success, after chairing three of these Festivals previously. Pam Weigert provided the finest publicity coordination ever resulting in excellent community awareness and unbelievable coverage in the press throughout the state. Lastly, Jody Goldsmith guided his fifth and last Festival to a successful curtain call. Countless other volunteers were involved, guaranteeing a most positive result.

This was the first Festival completely conducted indoors, anticipating nasty November weather. Yet the day was beautiful, welcoming Jewish and non-Jewish neighbors to enjoy this wonderful celebration of Jewish life. That is exactly what happened, and the community is better for it.

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