Judah Holstein, Westchester County Legislator; Crystal Collins, Director of Faith-Based Initiatives and Urban Affairs; Terry Clements, Westchester County Legislator; Michael Mittelman, President, Westchester Jewish Council; George Latimer, County Executive; Ken Jenkins, Deputy County Executive; and Elliot Forchheimer, CEO, Westchester Jewish Council
The 48th Annual Westchester Jewish Music & Arts Festival Brings Community Together
The 48th Annual Westchester Jewish Music & Arts Festival was held on Sunday, August 18 at Kensico Dam Plaza in Valhalla. The festival was presented by the Westchester Jewish Council (WJC) and in cooperation with Westchester County Parks as part of their 2024 Cultural Heritage Festivals.
Although the day began with torrential downpours, this did not stop the performers and vendors from performing and setting up, nor did it stop the crowds from visiting. By mid-afternoon, the rain had stopped, and the attendees were able to sing, dance and shop. This year’s performers included The Levins, Ohh-Lam Collective, SIX13, Elijah and the Not-For-Prophets, and Kol Hazzanim Kumsitz – Cantors of Westchester. There were over 50 vendors, a WonderSparks Puppet Show, Israeli Dancing with Leng, Juggler Ned Gelfars, and more.
In addition, this year there was a special presentation by WJC Executive Board Member Stu Seltzer to musician John Ondrasik who received the Alfred and Constance Weissman COURAGE Award. “John Ondrasik is not a silent bystander, and the Jewish world is better off because of that. Alfred and Connie Weissman were never silent bystanders and were always strong supporters of Jewish causes and American causes. Alfred was a decorated US Army veteran who served in World War II and remained supportive and involved in the US Army 10th Mountain Division. Alfred and Connie were also strong supporters of many Jewish organizations including AIPAC, Friends of the IDF, UJA Federation, and many others. The Westchester community was blessed to have their leadership, and we are blessed to have their family members carry on the tradition of “not being silent bystanders” and being strong supporters and leaders of Jewish and Israeli causes. We are honored to present the Alfred and Constance Weissman COURAGE Award to John Ondrasik.”
This free event is always a community favorite, and it did not disappoint this year.
The Westchester Jewish Council connects Westchester’s Jewish communities and strengthens relationships among Jewish organizations and other ethnic and faith-based groups, elected officials, Israel, and the community at large. The Westchester Jewish Council is a proud Core partner of UJA-Federation of New York. Visit www.wjcouncil.org for more information about the Westchester Jewish Council.