Philly 2009: Banquet headliner announced

"Is it hot in here, or am I the only one dressed for Poland in the 1700s?" quips Yisrael Campbell - considered Israel's premiere comedian.

The original and erudite Campbell lived in Jerusalem and currently lives in New York City.

And he'll headline the annual Awards Banquet at the Philadelphia conference, sort of coming back to his own roots, as he grew up in a Philadelphia suburb as the Catholic Christopher Campbell.

For more on Campbell, see his website. A review of a film about the comedian recounts his three conversions, covering all the bases (Reform, Conservative and Orthodox).

The Banquet, on Thursday evening, August 6, is an optional program. Remember to register for this event.