Before dashing off to the Capitol for President Obama’s primetime speech on health care Wednesday night, Vice President Biden hosted a Rosh Hashana soiree at his residence for about 100 Jewish leaders and friends.
The event took place by the pool famously installed by former Vice President Dan Quayle. No swimming took place, but Vice President Biden joked he was very thankful to Quayle for making him popular with his grandchildren.
Attire was casual, though Vice President Biden hardly looked it in a black suit. He mingled with guests for about 45 minutes before motorcading to the Capitol. Hors d’oeuvres, apple popsicles and honey were served by DC kosher catering giant Dahan Caterers.
Vice President Biden thanked the crowd for coming, reflecting that Rosh Hashana is a time for renewal and self-restoration.
In attendance were leaders of several prominent Jewish organizations including UJC, JCPA, J Street, AJC, the OU, IPA, NJDC and the Washington Jewish Federation.
Among the others present were Israeli Ambassador and Mrs. Michael Oren, Governor and Mrs. Jack Markell of Delaware and several other Jewish leaders from the greater Washington area.
JACPAC, an American Jewish pro-peace and pro-choice advocacy group, also attended.
The OU posted about the event in its blog, and UJC’s William Daroff twittered and managed to snap a pic of the VP.
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