over a hundred years of making a difference
Decmber 2012• Volume 98 • No. 2
emergency appeal
Miracles Happen at our Projects הנרות הללו אנו מדליקין על הניסים ועל הנפלאות We light these candles for the miracles and the wonders
special feature The Texas Gala Benefits the Bnai Zion Medical Center New York Dinners Strike New Ground Dancing the Night Away in Los Angeles
Reaching for Light: Drawings by Children at ahava village
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10 30
contents
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3 Miracles of the Season
NEW YORK REGION
OUR PROJECTS IN ISRAEL
5 Accomplishing Noteworthy Things David Eisenberg, President
10 Recognizing a Prominent New Yorker
22 Broadening Solutions at the Bnai Zion Medical Center
12 A Dinner Showcases Ma’aleh Adumim
24 Miracles and Wonders Shape the Lives of Many
TEXAS REGION
a special art gallery
6 Warning Sirens in Israel Ilana Graf 8 The Gift that Keeps on Giving Jack Grunspan Executive Vice President 9 The Bnai Zion Timeline Mel Parness Executive Vice President Emeritus
14 Showing Strong Support at the Texas Gala
30 Inspired Illustrations by Children at Ahava
MID-ATLANTIC REGION 17 An Israeli Superstar Performs
WESTERN REGION 19 Fundraising on a Red Carpet
SOUTHEAST REGION 20 Attracting the Florida Community
Our next tribute dinner is Thursday, March 21 honoring Richard C. Iannuzzi New York
national Note from the Editor
Quote for the Quarter Miracles of the Season by Lisa Paule Miracles happen all the time, in big and small ways: With democracy in action and being able to cast a vote - such as in the recent presidential election - and in the aftermath of the catastrophic Sandy storm, when we saw people putting aside their differences to help others get their lives back on track. In Israel, miracles happen at our projects, when breakthrough technology offers new results at the Bnai Zion Medical Center; when abused children learn to heal a painful past and forge ahead in Ahava Village; when mentally challenged individuals learn self-reliance at the Quittman Center; when graduates of the dual Hebrew-Arabic curriculum at the David Yellin College can educate multi-cultural populations; and when immigrants from all over, seeking a better standard of life in Israel, find their idyllic safe haven in the lovely city Ma’aleh Adumim. In this season we celebrate the wonders and achievements of our past, and all that Bnai Zion accomplishes, thanks to your kind generosity. Please enjoy the bright, festive and uplifting art by children at Ahava in our gallery on pages 30 & 31.
הנרות הללו אנו מדליקין על הניסים ועל הנפלאות ועל התשועות ועל המלחמות שעשית לאבותינו We light these candles For the miracles and the wonders, For the redemption and the battles That you did for our forefathers —Shulchan Arukh, Orach Chayim 676:4 100% of all designated gifts to Bnai Zion will be transferred to our projects in Israel.
see us bnaizion.org Facebook: facebook.com/bnaizionfoundation Twitter: twitter.com/bnaizion
contact us
National Office Lisa Paule • 212 725 1211 • lisapaule@bnaizion.org New York Region Mitchell Sternbach • 646 485 7991 • mitchell.sternbach@bnaizion.org MID-ATLANTIC REGION Sharona Durry • 267 250 3835 • sharona.durry@bnaizion.org Southeast Region Rikki Arad • 305 949 0076 • rikki.arad@bnaizion.org Texas Region Avrille Harris-Cohen • 972 918 9200 • avrille.harris-cohen@bnaizion.org Western Region Igal Zaidenstein • 310 502 1719 • igal.zaidenstein@bnaizion.org
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BNAI ZION FOUNDATION GIFT ANNUITY High Interest Guaranteed • Income Tax Deduction Capital Gains Tax Deferral Sample Single Gift Annuity Rates
age rate principal income
75 6.5% $10,000 $650 80 7.4% $10,000 $740 85 8.3% $10,000 $830
Earn high interest while helping to support Bnai Zion’s life-transforming projects For a confidential Personalized Gift Annuity Proposal, please complete and return the form below. interested in a Personalized Yes, IGiftam Annuity illustration. ❑ Please mail the illustration to me. ❑ Please contact me to arrange an appointment.
Address City
State
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Phone Email Best time to call
Art Director Matthew Papa Printing & Producing Cummings Printing Contributing Writers Irwin Blank David H. Eisenberg Jack Grunspan Mel Parness Raymond M. Patt Lisa Paule Contributing Photographer David Duchin / DSPN Photos Meital Gueta Nathan M. Mikita Abraham Joseph Pal
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2nd person if applicable Name Date of Birth Amount to be used for illustration: ($5,000 minimum) $
Type of Asset:
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Mail this form to: Jack Grunspan, Executive Vice President Bnai Zion Foundation 136 East 39th Street, New York, NY 10016 212 725 1211 or 800 564 6399 • bnaizion.org
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Published quarterly by Bnai Zion Foundation Annual Periodical Subscription: $2 members $5 non members USPS #546980
Confidential information is needed to complete illustration. Name of person to receive annuity payments:
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Business Manager Jack Grunspan
Circulation Manager Rosemary Fletcher
Name
❑ Annual
Editor In Chief Lisa Paule
Bnai Zion Voice (ISSN 0884-5565) Periodical postage paid at New York, NY and additional mailing office. Postmaster: Send address change to Bnai Zion Voice 136 East 39th Street New York, NY 10016 phone 212 725 1211 fax 212 684 6327 bnaizion.org
president
David H. Eisenberg
Accomplishing Noteworthy Things: Our Year in Review As we wind down the 2012 calendar year, I would like to take a few moments to reflect on what we, as an organization, have accomplished, and what we have to look forward to in 2013. To begin with, Bnai Zion is extremely fortunate to have as our chairman of the board George Schaeffer, who has been active with Bnai Zion for more than 40 years. George established an endowment last year that began producing income for Bnai Zion that allows us to send 100% of all designated gifts to its intended project, without any deduction for overhead expenses - something that we are all proud of and is almost unheard of these days.
“ The need also keeps growing,
and without your participation we cannot achieve our goals. ” Our regions continue to grow and contributions continue to rise, but the need also keeps growing, and without your participation we cannot achieve our goals.
Both the Bnai Zion Medical Center and Ahava Village for Children & Youth - two of our vital projects - celebrated their 90th anniversaries of serving the Israeli community, and we are proud to be a part of their success. The Quittman Center at Israel Elwyn for mentally challenged adults continues to be an anchor in the community to deal with individuals with special needs, with a focus on integrating these citizens into Israeli society as much as possible. The David Yellin Academic College of Education will be celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2013 and continues to be an exemplary teaching seminary. The coming year will be one of challenges and growth, with the celebratory Bnai Zion 105th Anniversary Mission to Israel in June. Join us on the mission; see the projects for yourself; and be part of this wonderful organization that makes such a difference in thousands of lives in Israel. Check us out on our website and keep current on new developments. Fran and I wish all of you the very best for 2013.
In November, construction was completed of the new George W. Schaeffer Music Conservatory in Ma’aleh Adumim, a magnificent structure that is so vitally needed for the continued growth of this beautiful city.
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a special report from
israel
Israel Under Attack: Life Goes On Ilana Graf poignantly describes the situation 21 November I live in Rehovot, work in Rishon Lezion and my parents live in Ashdod, which is more to the south.
We have a sheltered room in the house, but that’s because it is not an old house. Many people don’t have such a sheltered room, and there is one minute or less to run to shelter when the sirens are heard. If you are in a car or a bus you have to go out and lie down. I went to work and heard a siren, so at once I went with other people to the stairs. But there is no panic.
We say “cheers” to the soldiers – girls and boys – who are operating the Iron Dome equipment that is preventing most of the missiles from hitting the ground. They are doing a phenomenal job. But I’m afraid for our soldiers if there will be a decision to go into Gaza. People here don’t want to have a ceasefire that will not be good enough for Israel. So, we’ll see. Right now it looks really bad.
I’m also going to Tel Aviv once a week to the artists’ workshop. We have to act as usual - even sitting in coffee shops - because we don’t want to let Hamas change our daily life. But of course we have to be careful.
Ilana Graf is an artist and illustrator whose work graced the cover of our September 2011 issue.
We live almost as usual in Rehovot and in Rishon, but in the south, people are really in a very bad situation with many, many missiles arriving every few minutes. Here the sirens are very few, but yesterday there was a direct hit to a house in the western section of Rishon – and today there was a bomb attack of a bus in Tel Aviv. So it is a tense environment.
Here life is almost as usual; we don’t live in fear of something, at least within the center cities, although it isn’t safe here as well. And things are very difficult for families with small kids, because some of the schools and kindergartens – especially in the south – are closed now. People from unaffected areas, such as in the north - as always in times like these - are inviting others to come stay in their homes for a while to have a break from the daily stress.
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She is a graduate of the Midrasha art school at Beit Berl College and is a member of the Israeli Association of Illustrators and of the Israel Designer Craftsmen’s Association (part of the World Crafts Council). Ilana’s new line of greeting cards is available on etsy.com. Her daughter is currently serving in the IDF.
emer
l a e p p a gency
“The situation is not if we’ll suffer another missile attack, but when. We must be prepared.” Amnon Rofe, MD CEO, Bnai Zion Medical Center
Protecting Israel’s Future Israel must be prepared for any attack from the north. During the Second Lebanon War in 2006, the Bnai Zion Medical Center was on the frontlines as Haifa was attacked. Outstanding medical care was provided to more than 500 physically and psychologically injured victims of the Hezbollah rockets. The last rocket of the 34-day barrage that exploded just meters from the hospital underscored the urgency and need to build a new protected underground emergency department. During war or times of attack, the hospital treats not only victims of the attacks, but it also provides medical care to several hundred in-patients and others seeking emergency care, and has the only rehabilitation department in the north. And, as a designated military hospital, the Medical Center is prepared at all times to treat the brave, injured soldiers of the IDF.
Underground Protection against Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical Attack: A New Protected Emergency Department The new protected emergency department will be a facility of 1,000 square meters (approximately 10,800 square feet) with thirty beds, two trauma rooms and six professional clinics, where rocket attack victims will receive initial treatment. After they are stabilized, they will be transferred to a new protected hospitalization unit, a 90-bed section offering a complete range of services for patients who will require longterm care and whose protection must be assured. The new protected emergency department must be completed in the coming months, at a cost of $8 million, half of which has already been raised. For the remaining $4 million, Bnai Zion has a $2 million matching gift. For every dollar you contribute, it will be doubled. Emergency preparedness is crucial and help is needed now, so that patients and staff will be protected when rockets fall once again. The Bnai Zion Medical Center is a municipal, government-funded general hospital with 450 beds that provides exemplary medical care and services. A leading teaching and research hospital whose innovations have received international recognition, it receives limited government funding. The Medical Center treats without regard to ethnicity or religion and its staff prides themselves on providing professional expertise with a personal and humane touch to every single patient.
A matching gift up to $2 million will be given for every dollar contributed. 100% of all gifts for this emergency appeal will be transferred to the Medical Center. Please contribute online at bnaizion.org.
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executive vice president
jack grunspan
The Gift that Keeps on Giving! OK, so your folks are now approaching their 50th wedding anniversary, and you’ve bought them everything from silver to gold to aluminum, and everything in between. Isn’t time to be original? All your life your parents have told you about the importance of supporting Israel and being a good Zionist. Now it’s time to show them that you were listening. Your parents, aged 72 and 71, are approaching fifty years of wedded bliss. What else do you really think they still need? Another trip to Israel (not bad)? Another cruise? How about something they will remember for a lifetime and will show them just how much you really care. By establishing a Gift Annuity for them, you are giving them the gift that keeps on giving. Based on your parents’ ages, on a gift of $10,000 they would earn an annual
income of $470 for life. Of that amount, 80% would be tax-free for the first nineteen years. The payments would continue as long as either spouse is alive. And you would receive a tax deduction of approximately $2,600, reducing the real cost of your gift. Now for those of you who don’t have children in such a financial position, think of doing the same thing for your spouse. If you established a Gift Annuity for your 71 yearold wife as an anniversary present (or birthday present) she would get a 6% return on the gift. At the end of the recipient(s) lifetime(s), any remainder balance will go toward Bnai Zion projects in Israel. Is there any better gift than that?
For any specific questions, please feel free to call Jack Grunspan, executive vice-president for a confidential discussion at 212 725 1211.
of all designated gifts to Bnai Zion will be transferred to our projects in Israel. 100%
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executive vice president emeritus
mel parness
Bnai Zion: A Timeline Recently I was asked to speak to a group of Bnai Zion leaders and help them understand our history and richness of what we have accomplished in the last 105 years. From 1907, when Dr. Judah Magnes presided over the founding meeting of the organization until today, we have been involved in everything good for the Jewish people and for the State of Israel. Dr. Magnes, then a rabbi at Temple Emanu-El in New York who became the first chancellor of Hebrew University in Jerusalem, was our first chairman of the board. 1908 marked the tenth year since Herzl had convened the World Zionist Congress in Basel. It became reasonable to adopt the endorsement of the Basel Program as the first plank in Bnai Zion objectives, namely obtaining for the Jewish people a legally secured national home in Palestine. In 1911, several Bnai Zion leaders participated in the formation of Achooza Aleph, Inc., devoted to investing in orange groves in Palestine. This company was instrumental in the creation of Ra’anana, the first American colony in Jewish Palestine. Then in 1921, on a mission accompanied by Dr. Albert Einstein, Dr. Chaim Weizmann spoke passionately on behalf of Keren Hayesod (the Palestine Foundation Fund), and Bnai Zion was the first to respond to his appeal, raising $100,000 - a quite substantial amount at that time. Bnai Zion chalked up another “first” when it organized the Judea Industrial Corporation, which established the first Jewish life insurance company in Palestine, the Judea Insurance Company Ltd.
In 1928 Bnai Zion forwarded the then-large sum of $5,000 to the Bezalel Academy of Arts & Design in Jerusalem, which was being forced to shut down because of a lack of funds, representing our commitment to the support of Hebrew cultural institutions. In 1941 Bnai Zion was instrumental in creating the American Red Magen David for Palestine, the equivalent of the Red Cross. In 1948 a shipment of ambulances was flown to Israel on a DC-4 freight plane. Accompanying the ambulances were U.S. Rep. Emanuel Celler, Dr. Harris J. Levine and Herman Z. Quittman. The establishment of Kfar Bnai Zion in Israel in March 1947 was a memorable event that epitomized the role of Bnai Zion in the building of the state. Today Kfar Bnai Zion is one of the most successful communities in Israel. The continuing concern of our leaders led to the creation of the America-Israel Friendship League, headed by former U.S. Rep. Herbert Tenzer. Its program and activities have led to the promotion and development of mutual friendship between the people of the United States and the people of Israel. This compendium barely scratches the surface of the accomplishments of our organization over the years. An historian should research our archives and write a more complete history. Time is growing short to interview the “old-timers” who remember their role in our history and can add to what has been chronicled. I would love to see this happen!
The opinions expressed in this article are the author’s and not necessarily the organization’s. Comments can be sent to the Letters to the Editor column.
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new york
region
Recognizing excellence and innovation at a tribute dinner
The President of the NYC Economic Development Corp. is Honored Seth W. Pinsky, president of the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC), received the Bnai Zion Distinguished Humanitarian award at a tribute dinner on September 6 at the Roosevelt Hotel. This award is presented to individuals who have made a significant impact in their communities by building bridges to unite diverse interests. Appointed to this position by Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg in February 2008, Seth has responsibility for promoting the city as the global center for innovation in the 21st century. A graduate of Columbia College and Harvard Law School, prior to joining NYCEDC, Seth was an associate at the law firm of Cleary Gottlieb, Steen & Hamilton and a financial analyst at James D. Wolfensohn. At the dinner, the honorary chairperson, Rabbi Joseph Potasnik, executive vice president of the New York Board of Rabbis, served as the emcee. Jack Grunspan, executive vice president of Bnai Zion, greeted the guests and then spoke about the outstanding accomplishments of the honoree. Victor Ganzi then presented the award to Seth, who spoke about his family tradition of supporting Jewish and Israeli causes, and the importance of charitable endeavors. Dinner co-chairpersons included David Barry, president, Ironstate Development Company; Malcolm I. Hoenlein, executive vice chairman, Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations; Gary LaBarbera, president, Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York; William E. Rapfogel, CEO/executive director, Metropolitan Council on Jewish Poverty; George W. Schaeffer, president and CEO, OPI Products; and Cam Turner, principal, United Fund Advisors.
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new york
region
Focusing on Children with Special Needs in Ma’aleh Adumim The mayor of this vibrant city is the keynote speaker at a New York dinner On November 14, Bnai Zion honored accountant and entrepreneur Stewart Sternbach with its Distinguished Humanitarian Award at a dinner held in the Bnai Zion auditorium. Colleagues and friends of the honoree gathered to pay tribute to him, just a week after Hurricane Sandy, and raise funds for children with special needs in Ma’aleh Adumim. The mayor of Ma’aleh Adumim, Benny Kashriel, visiting from Israel for the event, discussed the history of Ma’aleh Adumim over the past thirty years, as well as the challenge of maintaining essential services amidst government cutbacks. During his acceptance speech, Stewart talked about his recent trip to Ma’aleh Adumim. His family visited the city right after a tour of Yad Vashem and he noted how exhilarating it was to visit this wonderful, thriving city after being reminded of the despair of the Holocaust. A new video about Ma’aleh Adumim was presented, showcasing many aspects of this city near Jerusalem.
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A Lively Forum on the Presidential Race Attracts New York Voters Two speakers discuss the views of the candidates A spirited presidential forum that many interested voters attended took place on October 11 at the Bnai Zion House. New York regional director Mitchell Sternbach welcomed the attendees and gave a brief summary of the important work being done at the five institutions in Israel that Bnai Zion supports, then he introduced the moderator, Shalom TV president Rabbi Marc S. Golub, and the two speakers. Noted attorney and longtime supporter of Israel Phil Rosen, in favor of Governor Mitt Romney, was matched against entrepreneur and progressive activist Kenneth Bob, who argued in favor of President Obama. The guests listened to each advocate explain and defend the candidates' positions on issues ranging from Israel to Iran to abortion. This event was intended to increase awareness of the organization and provide an informative angle on the presidential race. A crew from Shalom TV filmed the program, which will be available on demand and regular broadcast.
Scholarly Commentary on the Mideast Offers Depth and Insight Dynamics in this region are examined at this informative program As part of the continuing speaker series presented by the New York region, noted attorney and professor Mark Meirowitz spoke about the Arab Spring on October 17. Addressing a crowd assembled in the Bnai Zion auditorium, Dr. Meirowitz connected the political dots of uprisings in the Arab world from Tunisia to Egypt to Libya. Much of the program included a discussion of recent events in Syria and the stability of the regime in Iran. In addition, Dr. Meirowitz related the events of the Arab Spring to ongoing security concerns in Israel. With special expertise and an extensive background in Turkish affairs, Dr. Meirowitz offered his considered opinions on the current relationship between Israel and Turkey and the outlook for the future. Attendees included a representative of a prominent Turkish-American friendship organization, students from a political science class taught by Dr. Meirowitz, members of the local Jewish community, and others.
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texas
region
Setting new Heights at a Glittering Benefit Hundreds attend a fundraiser for the Bnai Zion Medical Center
T
he Texas region hosted a record-breaking Gala on November 4, honoring Dr. David Genecov and Pastors Larry and Tiz Huch, chaired by Stacey Clark and co-chaired by Diane Benjamin and Shirley Strauss. More than 300 attendees listened attentively as the honorees spoke about the importance of supporting the Bnai Zion Medical Center during this critical time in the Middle East. The event was attended by Dr. Amnon Rofe, the CEO of the Medical Center, and by many other dignitaries and past honorees. Over $120,000 was raised and sent to the hospital that evening. Appreciation to the committee, to the live auction chair Carole Wolanow, and to all the volunteers and board members who made the evening the wonderful success it was.
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texas
region
A Poignant Film Attracts Bnai Zion Enthusiasts in Dallas
The annual Jewish film festival celebrates its 16th year The Texas Region of Bnai Zion is proud of its involvement in Dallas events that help support the many facets of its thriving Jewish community. One such partnership was the recent 16th Annual Jewish Film Festival of the Jewish Community Center of Dallas, where Bnai Zion co-sponsored a film, as it does every year. Remembrance, the winner of the 2011 Berlin & Beyond Film Festival Audience Award for best feature film, is based on a true love story that began in a Polish concentration camp. Bnai Zion national president David Eisenberg, also president of the Texas region, who attended the screening with his wife Fran, stated how delighted he is that Bnai
Coming in the
march Voice • Going inside the layers of our projects • Commentary from Israel • Exciting coverage of our winter events • A preview of our 105th Anniversary Mission in June • and much, much more!
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Zion continues to offer and be involved in ongoing educational and community programs. Also spotted were Former Bnai Zion brunch honorees Zelda & Shawn Mash and Texas board vice president Dr. Harvey Wine. Diane Benjamin, co-chairman of the annual Bnai Zion Gala held at the Westin Galleria on November 4 attended the film festival as well, along with Avrille Harris-Cohen, the director of the Texas region. Diane, a former Bnai Zion honoree, stated that she continues to be impressed with the fact that 100% of designated funds raised go directly to Bnai Zion projects in Israel that help those in need across the medical, educational, social-service and cultural spectrum.
mid-atlantic
region
Israeli Sensation
Rami Kleinstein
delivers Heart & Soul to Philadelphia The concert draws enthusiasts of all ages Fans enjoyed a sold-out concert featuring Israeli superstar Rami Kleinstein at the piano on October 27 at the Main Line Reform Temple. Bnai Zion was a co-sponsor of the event, featuring one of Israel’s most renowned pop performers. The New York-born Kleinstein stirred the crowd in the Temple sanctuary with a vibrant, high-energy performance, interacting with the audience in English while his songs - including those from his latest album Complicated Situation - were sung in Hebrew.
Devora Silber and Louanne Spielman, Bnai Zion MidAtlantic board members, mingled with VIP guests at the pre-concert reception and enjoyed the wonderful opportunity to present information about the work of the organization. Marsha Weinber Flager gave out Bnai Zion postcards and pens, which helped raise awareness of the role and accomplishments of the organization within the Philadelphia community. Devora and Louanne commented: “We’re looking forward to raising funds for Ahava Village for Children & Youth at the upcoming Hanukkah event and concert.”
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western
region
Ushering in the New Year with a Focus on Charitable Giving Sandy and Mike Feldmar hosted a lavish dessert reception at their home to enthuse guests about Bnai Zion and begin the New Year in sweet style. More than 75 people attended. George W. Schaeffer, the president and CEO of OPI Nail Products and Bnai Zion chairman of the board spoke about his long association with the organization and lauded the important work it does that helps those in need in Israel. Don Levy, president and cultivator of Smith Brook Farm and former senior vice president of marketing and communications for Sony Pictures Digital discussed his experiences with Israeli high-tech companies, citing examples from his trip to Israel with the BIRD Foundation (Israel-U.S. Bi-National Research and Development) and from annual visits to Los Angeles by members of Israeli start-up companies and entrepreneurs. Don saluted the work of Bnai Zion. Andy Adler, the host of the pre-, half-, and post-game show for the Los Angeles Lakers, served as the emcee. Igal Zaidenstein, the western region director, concluded the event and invited the participants to become involved in organization activities.
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Dancing with a Star
Glamour and Elegance in Los Angeles
A spectacular evening of dance performance, instruction and participation was held October 16 at the picturesque Mountain Gate Country Club in Bel Air. Attendees danced the night away to a diverse soundtrack mixed by the renowned DJ Eyal, and they enjoyed a sumptuous hors d’oeuvres buffet, dance instruction provided by the Arthur Murray Dance Studio, and a sizzling dance presentation. They also learned about Bnai Zion projects in Israel that improve conditions for thousands across the medical, social service, cultural and educational spectrum.
This red-carpet fundraiser benefitted Bnai Zion projects
Maurice Meir spoke about his recent visit to Ahava Village for Children & Youth and how impressed he was by the significant work being done to help abused children there by giving them a warm and nurturing environment. Dr. Lee Regev spoke about her experience during the Second Lebanon War when she worked at the Bnai Zion Medical Center, and she emphasized the need of the hospital to complete construction of a protected underground emergency department. Sponsors of Dancing with a Star included the Arthur Murray Dance Studio in Beverly Hills, DJ Eyal, Jean & Jerry Friedman, Miri Gavrieli, Abner & Roslyn Goldstine, Boris Gorbis, the Chavi Hertz Foundation, Jivago, the Los Angeles Jewish Chamber of Commerce, Magicmusic, and the Peninsula Hotel in Beverly Hills.
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southeast
region
Expanding the scope of Florida outreach
Fundraising Events Attract More of the Community A Lecture on Healing Will Benefit Bnai Zion
All About Love
On Saturday night, October 27 the Shalom Community Center opened its doors for its inaugural lecture series, with a program featuring a lecture by Rabbi Rikki Arad, the southeast director of Bnai Zion, entitled A Jewish View of Love, Intimacy, and Sex, in which Rabbi Arad explained the natural, liberal approach of Judaism toward sexuality and love that respects both men and women in the most important life relationship. The theme of love continued with an informative overview of Bnai Zion projects in Israel with an emphasis on Ahava Village. Cantor Shalva Berti then continued with a musical presentation entitled Love Songs Through the Ages, and the crowd danced and sang along. Each attendee received a copy of the Voice magazine, and many committed to continue their association with Bnai Zion as volunteers within the region. Future events with the Shalom Community Center are being planned.
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On January 12 the Shalom Community Center, in conjunction with Bnai Zion and the Dezer Collection, will host a lecture by Dr. Michael Andron, a grand master and seventh degree black belt, who will discuss his new book, The Essential Guide to Energy Healing. Dr. Andron, a mohel and teacher, is also the originator of Reflex Balance and Energenesis stress management systems. The lecture will focus on his 40 years of experience in the field of human potential and healing. Proceeds from the evening will benefit Ahava Village for Children & Youth, a Bnai Zion project located in Kiryat Bialik, which provides housing, education and therapy for children at risk in Israel. The Shalom Community Center is a non-denominational synagogue and education center open to all members of the Jewish Community. The lecture will be held at the Dezer Collection Auto Museum, home of the Dezer Collection, the world’s largest privately owned car collection, at 8pm. For more information please call the Center at 305 934 6070.
How Giving to Israel Can Save Money When it was once a mitzvah to give to Israel, now it is financially beneficial as well. Jack Grunspan, the executive vice president of Bnai Zion, will hold a seminar about recent changes in tax law and will demonstrate how to help Israel while investing and securing your income.For more information, please call Bnai Zion at 305 934 6070 or check bnaizion.org.
special events
Saluting the Power of the Human Spirit at Upcoming Events Richard C. Iannuzzi, president of New York State United Teachers, which has over 600,000 members, will receive the Bnai Zion Distinguished Humanitarian Award at a dinner in New York Thursday, March 21, 2013. Mr. Iannuzzi has served as president since April 2005. Ted Kirsch, the President of AFT Pennsylvania and Mark Richard of Phillips, Richard and Rind, PA, one of the nation’s preëminent labor law firms are co-chairing the dinner. Mr. Kirsch has been a longtime supporter of Bnai Zion and Mr. Richard is a former recipient of the Distinguished Humanitarian Award. They have pledged their support to benefit the children in Ahava Village for Children & Youth.
Bnai Zion will honor Dr. Dimitrios Kostopoulos, a leader in the Greek-American community and co-founder of Hands-On Care Physical Care at a dinner in New York Thursday, May 9, 2013. Proceeds from this dinner will be used to fund the vital work of the Rehabilitation Medicine Department at the Bnai Zion Medical Center in Haifa, the only hospital unit of its kind in northern Israel. In addition to treating residents of the north, the department works extensively with wounded IDF soldiers.
June 3, 2013 will be a historic date for Bnai Zion, as the foundation will host its inaugural event in Jacksonville, Florida honoring Steven J. Grossman, chief executive officer/executive director of the Jacksonville Aviation Authority. Mr. Grossman assumed this position in September 2009. Prior to joining the Authority, he served as director of aviation for the Port of Oakland for 17 years.
Richard (Dick) Alexander, the founder and managing partner of the Alexander Law Group, LLP and Teresa Thu Huong Nguyen will be honored at a dinner in San Jose, California, at a date to be determined. Mr. Alexander is a nationally recognized personal injury attorney and consumer protection advocate. The law firm Teresa Thu Huong & Associates specializes in many areas and is committed to providing every client with professional representation in all legal matters. Richard Robinson of Robinson Communications, Inc., a staunch supporter of Bnai Zion, was instrumental in securing these guests of honor for this fundraiser.
Jack Grunspan, Bnai Zion executive vice president, will host a trip to Israel in February for guests of honor and leadership, to have a firsthand look at Bnai Zion projects. Steve Grossman and his wife, Ted Kirsch and his wife, and Dr. Kostopoulos have already agreed to participate.
Wishing Our Treasured Friend and Colleague
RAY PATT A wonderful 96th Birthday Have a sparkling and healthy year with many more to come! May you live until 120 - L’chaim
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our projects in israel
Broadening Solutions with a Multi-Disciplinary Approach at the Bnai Zion Medical Center
A Breakthrough Solution to Hypertension Yields Promising Results As a way of treating hypertension, an innovative and promising treatment based on the catheterization of renal arteries is being performed in the cardiology department. In a twelve-month follow-up assessment, doctors saw a significant decrease in the blood pressure parameters of patients who had the innovative procedure and they concluded this decrease was achieved uniquely as a result of this special procedure. The Medical Center is the most prominent hospital in Israel for treating hypertension through an innovative procedure. Prof. Uri Rosenschein, head of the cardiology department and Dr. Shimon Stroch, head of the nephrology department have completed twenty successful catheter-based procedures. In this technique doctors burn the renal sympathetic nervous system that wraps around the renal arteries, which adjusts the hypertension. Blood pressure parameters after the procedure yielded promising results in providing better blood pressure control in patients with resistant hypertension (where medication was ineffective). Procedures were successful and without side effects. Prof. Rosenschein, who performed the procedures, explained that his staff maintains a high level of expertise, the procedure is safe and simple with promising results, it can be used on many patients, and the team at the hospital has much experience treating hypertension with catheter-based radiofrequency renal artery sympathetic denervation. Dr. Storch believes it to be a fine solution for patients with high blood pressure, especially those in whom blood pressure remains high in spite of medication taken. If the new procedure can help only part of these patients, it is still a significant breakthrough.
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Prof. Rosenschein who also serves as Vice Dean of Strategic Development at the Faculty of Medicine in the Technion, indicates that high blood pressure is known as a “silent killer,� a serious health condition that is constantly increasing and which affects a third of the adult population. It can cause a heart attack, congestive heart failure, kidney disease and death. Hypertension can be treated with medication but there are many patients who have developed resistance to medications. 4,000 people all over the world have gone through this procedure and 1,000 of them participated in international clinical trials in which they were closely monitored. Good results in significantly reducing blood pressure longterm without complications were achieved with this procedure, a real solution to many patients and to the world of medicine.
Prof. Uri Rosenschein, head of cardiology and Dr. Shimon Storch, head of nephrology
A Psychologist’s Simple Advice Works A young man who came to the pain management clinic after suffering severe knee pains for over six months can walk again. An 18-year old who was suffering from strong pain in the knees came to the pain management clinic using crutches. He had been examined at many other clinics and doctors had no clear diagnosis for him. Hospital experts, diagnosing an emotional component causing the physical pains, recommended treatment comprised of psychotherapy and mesotherapy, a nonsurgical cosmetic medicine Ahuva Darmon, head nurse treatment that involves multiple injections of pharmaceutical and homeopathic medications, plant extracts, vitamins, and other ingredients into subcutaneous fat. Its major advantage is that relatively few repetitions are necessary. Pain management (also called pain medicine or algiatry) is a branch of medicine that uses an interdisciplinary approach for easing suffering and improving the quality of life of those living with pain. The typical pain management team includes medical practitioners, clinical psychologists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, nurse practitioners, and clinical nurse specialists. Ahuva Darmon, head nurse at the clinic, explains that when a patient complains of severe physical pain, a series of tests and examinations are conducted and a treatment plan involving medication and psychology is typical, as the emotional component has an important impact on the everyday functioning of the patient. The pain management clinic offers individual psychotherapy or group therapy of eight sessions that include medical and psychological information on physical pain, and ways to deal with pain such as relaxation, and guided imagery.
Empowering Future Doctors A unique program for intern doctors has been launched. To maximize the professional growth of interns toward independent work as physicians, hospital management has designed a new system whereby a senior physician is assigned to every intern to act as a mentor. Beyond the teaching responsibility in all our medical departments, the mentor will act as a private coach that will assist the intern to learn from the professional, personal and humane challenges that he or she faces during internship. Hospital management views nurturing the future generation of doctors as vitally important, with internship being a critical term, as it symbolizes the changing status from being students to treating patients in practice. Internship is conducted differently at governmental hospitals as it has not been defined by the Israeli Ministry of Health. At the first workshop conducted recently at the Medical Center, thirty senior physicians participated and learned about effective feedback and what is expected of them.
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our projects in israel
Making a Tremendous Impact at Our Projects
Miracles and Wonders Shape the Lives of Many Our projects improve the lives of many in myriad ways. New discoveries are made at the Bnai Zion Medical Center; children and parents learn how to progress in spite of a heartbreaking past in Ahava Village; staff advocate for the rights of the mentally challenged in the Quittman Center; and in the David Yellin College and in Ma’aleh Adumim, programs abound to enhance the quality of life. Learn about particular instances where these institutions and city made a notable difference – and how they are actively helping protect Israel’s future.
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Ca re at the B na i Z ion Medic al Cen t e r
Fighting against Adversity: The Miracle of Life Expected to be born in November, Maya instead arrived July 4, weighing just 1 pound 10 ounces, measuring only 12 inches long, and being 16 weeks early, with her eyes still fused shut. Maya fought for every breath, facing daily challenges caused by a heart defect, bleeding in her brain, a heart murmur and jaundice. Her mom Rachel recalls: "Most parents dream of the moment their child is born and of holding them only seconds after. But for my husband Moshe and me, it would be a very long time before we could ever cuddle or gently caress our precious little girl. We were in for a roller-coaster ride that we never expected to take." During Maya’s long stay in the NICU - an intensive care unit specializing in the care and treatment of ill or premature infants - she received closely monitored medical care. Maya was in a special incubator connected to many tubes and hoses, and she was surrounded by dedicated staff that took care of all of her needs 24 hours a day, while her condition constantly changed and her every move was examined. Maya’s parents were surrounded by devoted hospital staff who updated and supported them, and the NICU became their second home. Encouraged by staff to spend as much time as they could with her, Maya’s parents held her tiny fingers, touched her and started to bond with her. Change came slowly, and there were days they didn't believe Maya would survive. But after 113 days in the NICU - still fragile and needing monitors and oxygen - Maya went home with her parents and big brother, Oded. And amazingly, Maya has no lasting consequences of her extremely premature birth! She’s a healthy 5-year-old with the energy of a firecracker, who loves singing, reading with her grandparents, and swimming in the ocean with Oded.
The Medical Center NICU in numbers: • 3,500 babies choose to be born in the hospital every year. • The highest level of neonatal intensive care is provided for 400 preterm and term babies annually. • Premature babies are as small as 500gr (1.1 pound) and 23 weeks of gestation. • The unit has 16 beds, but care is provided to more than 22 babies at any given time. • The hospital achieves a 90% survival rate in babies born weighing less than 1.5kg (3.3 pounds). • There is less than 20% morbidity among this high-risk group. • There are 5 physicians and 23 nurses in this unit.
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our projects in israel Ma’aleh Ad umim
A Young Pearl in the Desert Raising the Flag of Culture
A Modernized Security Center
From an arid, dry desert, strewn with stones and sand, thrives the ideological dream of a small group of idealists – a city in the State of Israel lying to the east of Jerusalem and serving as its security belt. It all started on the first candle of Hanukah, when the miracle was realized, and thirty years later it has become a city of 40,000 residents. Ma’aleh Adumim has become a name in Israel, flourishing in education, environmental quality and standard of living. Miracles do happen sometimes.
Thanks to the generous donation of Mr. George W. Schaeffer and Bnai Zion, the security center of Ma’aleh Adumim will be re-located from its temporary, dilapidated surroundings to a new underground location below the Conservatory and near City Hall. This will enable the security staff to be in central and close proximity to any and all dangers facing the community such as terrorist threats, road accidents, crimes, vandalism and other violence, fires in homes and in city areas, and earthquakes and other natural disasters. The new location will enable action in zero-response time – an added benefit to the community.
Thanks to the generous donation of Bnai Zion for the construction of its eponymous Library of Peace, a municipal facility that used to be in a temporary, unstable and inaccessible location, a building of striking architecture was built. It opened a cultural window for all local residents, who are now exposed to a large variety of books in several languages. Over time the library has grown into a vibrant, lively and central entity in the daily life of Ma’aleh Adumim. The Library of Peace was also the catalyst for the construction of two adjacent buildings: the George W. Schaeffer Music Conservatory, which gives hundreds of children the possibility of realizing their potential and developing a love for music; and the George W. Schaeffer Cultural Hall, which will be a venue for music, theater and other performing arts, now available to residents who previously had to travel to other cities in order to enjoy quality entertainment.
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Pro gr ess at Ahava Vi l l ag e for Ch i l d re n & Yo u t h
Miracles of Love
From the perspective of Sara Pinchovich, Director of Education at Ahava That Court will allow me to live at home with my parents... That my mom and dad will live together... That home will be a safe place for me... That I will not be afraid at night... That Mom will get better and can take care of me... That my parents will take care of me... That I’ll win the lotto and will have money to buy a house and food for my little siblings... Those are the miracles our children at Ahava wish for, not only every Hanukah, but every night. Many years ago I was with a group of kids from the Ahava newsletter editorial staff, a paper managed by the children. We were in the Beit Terezin Museum, participating in an educational program about Kamarad, the children’s newpaper in the ghetto in Terezin where the families were separated, with children living on one side and their parents on the other. They had a youth movement in Terezin at that time. The guide at the museum asked our kids what they thought would be a real prize for children who behave well, as he wanted to show them some cards and medals that were prizes given out in those days. One of our children from Ahava looked at him as if it were a rhetorical question, telling him the prize would be to feel like a child, with parents at home.
fostering good psychological development. At age 6 S knew and had seniority in how to clean the house, how to change diapers, how to prepare food, and how to steal in the market. Six years later, one of her sisters is a resident of Ahava as well, away from home but able to be a child. S is a beautiful teenager, behaving more responsibly than other kids her age in other places; and at times more childish and trying to be a child a bit more. If we are successful in giving our kids a chance at childhood - because most of the time their wounds are so all-encompassing that this is truly a “mission impossible” - it’s a miracle. For Hanukah we talk with the kids about the sources of light in their lives. The answers were: to be at home… my family… to feel safe… to feel “part of…” and to feel loved. I wish all our kids and all of you lots of light and some small miracles in life.
This moment and dialogue has always stayed in my mind, particularly when I think of the miracles we try to accomplish for the kids at Ahava. Every day around 4:15pm is a kind of miracle to me: Hearing and watching the kids go out and play in the yard and seeing their smiles is a miracle, knowing the emotions and memories those kids carry in their souls. Giving them a chance to be children, with most of the privileges children have, like not worrying about food or money, playing games, feeling safe, and feeling loved, is another miracle. Another moment I carry with me was during a tour in Jerusalem, with ten Ahava teenagers ages 16 and older, after we visited the Surpreme Court and Knesset and learned a lot about democracy. We were walking in the neighborhood near the prime minister’s house and passed by a small old playground. We spent more than an hour there, with the teenagers playing and using the equipment. For an hour, they could return to childhood in a safe environment. Some of our kids come from homes without any adult taking care of them. “S,” 12 years old, arrived at Ahava six years ago after having been responsible for taking care of her two younger sisters every day until the evening. S did not have a childhood as we understand it and as it should be for
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our projects in israel A dvocat ing for th ose in need at t h e Q ui tt m a n C e n t e r
A New Lease on Life Miri, a 30-yearold intellectually challenged woman with Down Syndrome, shares an apartment with five other adults in the Quittman Center, which is part of the community residential services program on the Jerusalem campus of Israel Elwyn.
Eight years ago Miri was diagnosed with kidney failure and began dialysis treatments four times a week at a Jerusalem hospital. Initially she was exhausted by the treatments and suffered physical pain. Her self-image as a healthy, independent person was also affected and she felt considerably constrained by new dietary limitations and regulated liquid intake necessitated by the treatment. Miri eventually got used to the treatments, which became an integral part of her regimen. The staff of the dialysis unit became very fond of her, as did the other patients. Miri’s family members were supportive, helping wherever possible and working together with the Israel Elwyn staff to ensure that she had the best care. Miri’s employer and colleagues were aware of her condition and helped keep track of her food and beverage intake at work. Miri’s working hours were adjusted to allow her to reach treatments on time, accompanied by a member of the Israel Elwyn staff who later took her home to recover from the dialysis, when her blood pressure tended to fluctuate and she needed close monitoring. In addition, she underwent CT scans, ultrasound tests and electrocardiogram tests on a regular basis, and her weight and blood pressure were supervised both at the hospital and at home as well. After two years, an attempt was made to have Miri’s name added to the transplant register, but doctors doubted she was a serious candidate. One doctor even told Israel Elwyn staff it was “a waste of a kidney.” Nonetheless, supported by Miri’s family, efforts continued by Israel Elwyn staff in the hope that one day she would receive the same consideration as any other person with kidney failure. They helped Miri maintain a daily routine, ensuring that she went to every dialysis treatment and checkup, and keeping track of her general health and medications. Israel Elwyn support providers were given special training and certification so that
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they could give Miri injections of blood thinners each day at the same hour over a period of two years in the comfort of her own home, obviating the need for her to go to the doctor each day. Two years ago, Israel Elwyn and the doctor caring for Miri were successful in getting her name added to the national registry of candidates for kidney transplants, and one afternoon in March 2012 Miri finally got the call to come to the hospital urgently. After reconfirming that the available kidney was indeed a match, Miri successfully underwent a transplant operation. There have been ups and downs in Miri’s recovery and she is under weekly medical follow-up, but her life has changed immeasurably for the better. While Miri may not completely internalize what has happened, she is fully cognizant that dialysis is no longer needed, she is free to eat whatever appeals to her, she now has unrestricted liquid intake, and she has the energy to pursue a normal and happy life.
please join us on our
105th Anniversary Mission to Israel June 11 to 18, 2013
See the splendor of Israel and learn about our humanitarian projects that improve the lives of thousands in need. Feel the spirit of a proud nation whose roots in the past are forging the way to a bright and meaningful future.
Mission Highlights • Visit to a former secret munitions factory important during the War of Independence • Exploration of Tefen High Tech Industrial Park, Israel’s premier design and sculpture center • Wine-tasting at one of Israel’s top wineries • Jeep tour of the Golan Heights • Excursion to Neot Kedumim, the biblical landscape park, with an enchanting rustic dinner • Briefings with dignitaries, government spokespeople and industry experts • Visits to Bnai Zion projects to see our work firsthand
Land-only package includes • 7 nights of luxury hotel accommodations at top hotels in Haifa, Jerusalem and Tel Aviv • Israeli buffet breakfast daily and many meals • Guided touring throughout • And much, much more! Land package $2,525 per person based on double occupancy Single supplement $1,250.
To reserve your place on this mission or for inquiries please contact Donna at Gil Travel: 215 568 6655, ext. 260 or 800 223 3855, ext. 260 or donnap@giltravel.com You can also reserve online here at www.research.net/s/bnaizion
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our projects in israel
celebrating
miracles and light
We present our fourth annual gallery of art by children at Ahava Village who are learning to overcome extreme turmoil, sadness and despair . Their concepts of what makes life wonderful and bright are depicted in these illustrations. We applaud their optimism and spirit.
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P e ri od i c a l s
the magazine of the bnai zion foundation
Bnai Zion Foundation 136 East 39th Street New York, NY 10016
Over a hundred years of making a difference
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