Public Invited to September 30 Ceremony


U.S. Senator Arlen Specter, Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell, and Philadelphia Mayor John Street are among the guests scheduled to speak at the groundbreaking for the new Museum taking place on Sept. 30, 11 a.m. on Independence Mall at 5th and Market Streets. The program will begin with the bells of Independence Hall ringing 11 times, and will include music in addition to the speakers and other activities.

Joining in the celebration with dignitaries from federal, state and local government will be Museum trustees and donors, scholars, educators, religious leaders, and young people, wishing to take part in a historic event for the national Jewish community and all Americans.

"The Museum will be a cornerstone in the modern-day American Jewish community, and a source of national pride," said Ronald Rubin, co-chairman with George M. Ross of the Museum's Board of Trustees. "The new NMAJH is dedicated to keeping Jewish culture alive and giving a new generation greater appreciation of their heritage. It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to help create a special place in the American Jewish community and to tangibly demonstrate what's possible when people live in freedom."

"I hope that people from throughout the region will celebrate with us in this landmark community event," said Gwen Goodman, Museum Executive Director and CEO.

The new Museum, an architecturally distinctive 6-story, 100,000 square foot building, will be the pre-eminent national educational and cultural institution presenting American Jewish history. Designed by the leading New York architectural firm of Polshek Partnership Architects, the Museum will build on the dynamic interaction between its location on Independence Mall, the history and traditions of the Jewish people, and the broader national experience. Galleries, exhibition halls, an education center and an auditorium will be among the features of this new Museum.

The new Museum is scheduled to open a half block away from 5th and Market streets on July 4, 2010, 34 years after its first opened its doors during the Bicentennial.

To make a reservation to join us for the groundbreaking ceremony, please contact Jannine Medrana at 215.923.3811 ext. 111.

To view a recent news story about the new Museum, visit http://cbs3.com/video/?id=44269@kyw.dayport.com.