Good evening and thank you Abe Pollin for a life long dedication to America, Israel and the Jewish cause. You are a role model to us all. I would also like to thank Mark Lerner and Steve Lustig for co-chairing the JCC Maccabi Games. I am truly privileged to be here with Governor Ehrlich and County Executive Duncan. It is so great for us all to be here and play a part in this wonderful ceremony, opening the JCC Maccabi Games.

It is inspiring to see Jewish athletes, assembled from all parts of the United States, Israel, Canada, Great Britain, Poland, Venezuela, Mexico, Australia and many other nations around the world. It is encouraging knowing the Jewish people are united across so many international borders. All of us are here, to compete against one another, but more importantly, we are here to re-affirm our Jewish identity.

Just as the Maccabis stood proud as Jews, so should you. You are the future of the Jewish people!

It is hard to put into words how proud, both the State of Israel and I are of your achievements. It is young men and women like you, who insure the permanence and vitality of the Jewish spirit, and it is young people like you, who built our country and continue to fight for her grand ideals.

You may ask, "How can you help to ensure the continuity of Israel and the Jewish people?" Learn about Israel and your faith. Advocate on behalf of Israel. Bring Israel to your communities, your schools, your universities and your synagogues. Talk to your friends and your neighbors.

Remember, you are not only a Maccabi on the sports field. You can be a Maccabi everywhere you go.

So join with Israel. Become part of our campaign for freedom, tolerance, security, and progress. Be proud of your heritage and the values we so closely share with the United States and all great democracies.

Good luck to you all.