OVER A HUNDRED YEARS OF MAKING A DIFFERENCE
December 2014 • Volume 100 • No. 2
Excellence in Many Unique Ways EXAMPLES AT OUR PROJECTS
The Bnai Zion Medical Center Benefits from the Texas Gala
Two Northeast Dinners Expand Fundraising Scope
The World Zionist Congress Election, Part 2
Israel: The Cornerstone for the Future of Technology
14
december 2014
contents
12
3 Being Exceptional Offers A Lot
NORTHEAST REGION
4 Israel Shines Brightly
11 A Northeast Dinner Benefits the Medical Center
5 The Miracle of You David H. Eisenberg President
TEXAS REGION
8 The World Zionist Congress Election, Part 2
SOUTHEAST REGION
Ma’aleh Adumim Today & Tomorrow! Mel Parness Executive Vice President Emeritus
14 Giving Spirit at the Annual Gala
17 A Church Rallies Support
WESTERN REGION 18 Israel as a Business Focus 20 Welcoming New National Board Members
21
14
12 The NY Real Estate Industry Steps Up
7 Stock Market Hits Record Highs Jack Grunspan Executive Vice President
9
29
SPECIAL EVENTS 21 Opening New Doors in Washington
OUR PROJECTS IN ISRAEL 22 Innovation in Cardiology 24 Our Projects: What Makes Them Unique
11
2015 events SOUTHEAST REGION Tuesday, January 27 Love at Lorenzo Party
TEXAS REGION
Sunday, March 22 Kosher Chili Cook-Off
NATIONAL Note from the Editor
Quote of the Quarter :
;
; ; ;
Being Exceptional Offers a Lot by LISA PAULE Our five projects are each exceptional and do outstanding, noteworthy work. The only hospital rehabilitation department in the north of Israel can be found in the Bnai Zion Medical Center, which also has the only comprehensive clinic to treat victims of sexual abuse. In Israel, there are other organizations caring for abused children, but Ahava Village for Children & Youth works with worst-case children at risk who cannot be placed through the regular foster system. Israel Elwyn is a nationwide network of supported living centers that specialize in helping mentally challenged adults “mainstream” into society, where the Quittman Center, on its Jerusalem campus, fosters the maximizing of one’s potential. Ma’aleh Adumim, an anchor for some smaller towns outside Jerusalem whose residents appreciate its cultural centers, has a unique high school for aeronautics where civilian and military students study together. And at the David Yellin Academic College of Education, a dual Hebrew-Arabic language curriculum enables the education of hundreds of Arab students, who receive training based on Israeli parameters for when they ultimately graduate and go teach in their communities, a benefit to the Jewish State. Our projects offer the most advanced methods and environments for improving and enhancing the lives of thousands in Israel, and we’re proud to showcase and support them.
. Rabbi Yochanan said: Go and see which is the best trait for a person to acquire. Said Rabbi Eliezer: A good eye. Said Rabbi Joshua: A good friend. Said Rabbi Yossei: A good neighbor. Said Rabbi Shimon: To see what is born [out of one’s actions]. Said Rabbi Elazar: A good heart. Said Rabbi Yochanan to them: I prefer the words of Elazar the son of Arach to yours, for his words include all of yours.—Pirkei Avot, Chapter 2, Verse 13
100% of all designated gifts to Bnai Zion are transferred to our projects in Israel.
see us bnaizion.org FACEBOOK: facebook.com/bnaizionfoundation TWITTER: twitter.com/bnaizion
contact us
NATIONAL OFFICE Cheryl Bier • 212 725 1211 • cheryl.bier@bnaizion.org NORTHEAST REGION Alicia Post • 212 725 0244 • alicia.post@bnaizion.org facebook.com/bnaizionnewyork MID-ATLANTIC REGION 800 564 6399 • midatlanticregion@bnaizion.org SOUTHEAST REGION Rikki Arad • 305 949 0076 • rikki.arad@bnaizion.org facebook.com/bnaizionsoutheastregion TEXAS REGION Avrille Harris • 972 918 9200 • avrille.harris-cohen@bnaizion.org facebook.com/bnaiziontexasregion WESTERN REGION Judy Podolsky • 818 598 1818 • judy.podolsky@bnaizion.org facebook.com/bnaizionwesternregion
december 2014 VOI CE 3
The Colors of Israel Shine Brightly on Our Cover The cover illustration was done by Risa Aqua, an illustrator and calligrapher whose whimsical creations have been commissioned by hundreds of people to commemorate achievements and life passages. With a BFA from Colorado State University, Risa spent 14 months in Israel after college, first studying Hebrew at an ulpan in Tiberias, then volunteering as an art teacher in Ashkelon. Returning to Denver in 1984, she worked in the architecture/design field and did artwork that was exhibited in galleries around the city. She began making ketubot (Jewish marriage contracts) for close friends, and her career took a ninety-degree turn. “I had learned Hebrew calligraphy from my father, the artist Ed Towbin, and I took further classes in English lettering styles. Calligraphy is a challenging discipline; the letters are like friends of mine, each with a backstory and a personality.”
ON THE COVER “Making ketubot and other text-based art allows me to combine my love of the Hebrew language with art and design.” Risa has helped many budding artists create their own bar/bat mitzvah invitations, and has taught art workshops to children and adults. When she’s not working in art, Risa teaches Hebrew to children and tutors them for their bar/bat mitzvah. Risa lives in Denver with her husband, the musician and artist Hal Aqua, and they have two grown daughters. Her work can be seen at risaaqua.com, and on etsy.com/shop/RisaAqua.
VOICE
DECEMBER 2014 • VOL. 100 • NO. 2 ISSN: 0884-5565
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Lisa Paule BUSINESS MANAGER Jack Grunspan ART DIRECTOR Matthew Papa COVER ILLUSTRATION Risq Aqua 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 Jean Hangarter Hannah Herskovits CIRCULATION MANAGER Rosemary Fletcher Published quarterly by BNAI ZION FOUNDATION Annual Periodical Subscription: $2 members $5 non members USPS #546980 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 The Bnai Zion Foundation, Inc. is a qualified 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization and donations are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law. Please consult your tax advisor regarding specific questions about your deductions.
4
VO I CE december 2014
DAVID H. EISENBERG
The Miracle of You It’s not often one can say that they performed a miracle, but isn’t it nice to know that you can? As the president of Bnai Zion, my wife Fran and I have had the privilege of seeing firsthand the life-saving work done by this magnificent organization, and as we tour the projects the first thing that comes to mind is that this was not done by one person alone. As the saying goes, “It takes a village,” and YOU are that village. From the hundreds of children at Ahava, to the thousands of students at David Yellin College, to the dozens of mentally challenged adults at the Quittman Center, to the 40,000 residents of Ma’aleh Adumim, and to the hundreds of thousands of resident who benefitted and had their lives saved at the Bnai Zion Medical Center – all of these have you to thank for sharing in the miracle. As you know, this past summer Israel had its own miracles dealing with Operation Protective Edge. Many
of her soldiers and citizens gave their lives to protect our country – the only democratic one in the Middle East. During that time the lives of Israel’s citizens were
“When the sirens went off in northern Israel it was a clear reminder of the second Lebanon war.” disrupted in the entire country. Outdoor events at Ahava were cancelled, residents of Ma’aleh Adumim were constantly running to shelters, and the Bnai Zion Medical Center treated dozens for trauma. When the sirens went off in northern Israel it was a clear reminder of the second Lebanon war. It’s the season to celebrate the miracle of Hanukah and wish peace and good will to all. I invite you to join Fran and me and be part of Bnai Zion’s miracle. We hope you have a wonderful holiday season.
of all DESIGNATED GIFTS to BNAI ZION are TRANSFERRED to our PROJECTS IN ISRAEL. 100%
december 2014 VOI CE 5
Optimum Retirement: Your Future Can Be Enhanced with Smart Planning Support our humanitarian projects in Israel while earning high interest with a
BNAI ZION GIFT ANNUITY High Interest Guaranteed | Income Tax Deduction | Capital Gains Tax Deferral A Bnai Zion Gift Annuity: How It Works A Gift Annuity with our organization is a contract under which the Bnai Zion Foundation, Inc. commits to paying a fixed-rate lifetime annuity to one or two individuals in exchange for a contribution of cash or marketable securities. The fixed annuity rate is based on the age(s) of the annuitant(s) and is drawn from Bnai Zion Gift Annuity tables for one or two lives. More information can be found on bnaizion.org.
Yes,
I am interested in a Personalized Gift Annuity illustration. ❑ Please mail the illustration to me
❑ Please contact me to
Compelling Reasons to Enroll One wants assurance that one’s fixed income investments are secure and that the income received is enough to help with the high cost of living when retired. Reputable, stable charitable organizations have made regular and reliable payments to annuitants over decades, throughout all sorts of economic fluctuations. The Bnai Zion Gift Annuity reserve fund, required to conform to regulations of the New York State Insurance Department, provides our annuitants with assured, timely income.
arrange an appointment
NAME ADDRESS CITY STATE
ZIP
PHONE EMAIL BEST TIME TO CALL
Learn More For a confidential, customized Gift Annuity proposal, contact Jack Grunspan, Bnai Zion Executive Vice President, at 800 564 6399 or via grunspan@bnaizion.org
Confidential information is needed to complete illustration. Name of person to receive annuity payments: NAME
For a confidential personalized Gift Annuity proposal, please complete and return the form at right.
bnaizion.org
6
VO I CE december 2014
DATE OF BIRTH
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
JACK GRUNSPAN
Stock Market Hits Record Highs – Big Deal! Isn’t it great? Your portfolio has increased in value so now you can go ahead and cash in and pay all those great Capital Gains taxes, and if your income is over a certain level, even more than that. But what if you found a way out? Bnai Zion’s Gift Annuity program allows you to transfer these appreciated assets without incurring any up-front Capital Gains tax, and avoiding some of it
“You could get a lifetime income rate of 7% on the entire principal transferred” altogether. So, if you have a portfolio worth $250,000 that originally cost you $100,000 you have three options.
First, you can hold on to it and wait for it to go back down in value. Second, you could sell your assets and pay more than 20% (combined Federal, State, City) in taxes. Or, third, transfer part of those “winnings” to a Gift Annuity and keep it all for yourself. If you are age 75 you could get a lifetime income rate of 7% on the entire principal transferred to the Gift Annuity without any tax deductions upfront. That means you could be earning more than double of what you might earn on your own and get a Charitable Tax deduction as well. Another option is to establish a Charitable Remainder Trust where you would avoid Capital Gains tax altogether, still get a lifetime income and Charitable Tax deduction, and could even build in a guaranteed number of year payments.
If you would like more information based on your specific circumstances, please contact Jack Grunspan at 212 725 1211.
SAMPLE SINGLE GIFT ANNUITY RATES
AGE
RATE
PRINCIPAL
INCOME
75
7%
$10,000
$700
80
8%
$10,000
$800
85
9%
$10,000
$900
90
10.5%
$10,000
$1,050
december 2014 VOI CE 7
World Zionist CongressPart II by JACK GRUNSPAN
m
(For a refresher on Part I go to the Voice archives on bnaizion.org and access the September 2014 issue)
the opportunity to elect its members by voting for the Bnai Zion slate. The WZC represents millions of Jews worldwide and your vote can make a difference.
Israel, created in 1948, continued the 51-year tradition of carrying on the Zionist Congress, with the noted difference that all future congresses would be held in Jerusalem.
Why Bnai Zion? This organization, among a few others, has no political or religious affiliation, as it welcomes all members. As such, the platform represents the type of mindset to get this type of voting done. Many Bnai Zion officers are on the slate, including David Eisenberg (national president), Stephen Savitsky (first vice president), and others whom you are familiar with.
The American Zionist Movement (AZM) was created as “the” Zionist Federation in the United States as the representative of the WZO and serves as the umbrella group for all Zionists organizations in America.
“You are the one who can make a difference” The next Congress - the 37th - is scheduled to meet in October 2015. There are 145 delegates to be elected from the U.S. (out of a total of 500 worldwide), and YOU are the one who can make a difference. Why vote? The World Zionist Congress is basically the parliament of the Jewish people and you have
8
VO I CE december 2014
If you’re registered and vote in elections in the United States, then you should be voting for the WZC. Requirements are: age 18 or older, must be Jewish, a resident of the United States, and must accept the Jerusalem Program.* Voting begins January 13, 2015. On that date, just go to bnaizion.org and click on the link. Special thanks to W. James Schiller who endowed me with the knowledge to make this article possible.
*For details of the Jerusalem Program, go to www.azm.org/jprog.shtml
MEL PARNESS
Ma’aleh Adumim Today and Tomorrow! Recently my good friend Benny Kashriel, mayor of Ma’aleh Adumim, visited us in New York, and we discussed the situation in Ma’aleh Adumim today and its needs for tomorrow. Benny has served his city for twenty years and under his stewardship the city has grown from a town of 17,000 people to a city of over 40,000 residents. With the help of our chairman of the board, George Schaeffer, we have built the Bnai Zion Library of Peace, a music conservatory, and many other projects in Ma’aleh Adumim. We have seen the needs, and we help satisfy them. When the city’s schools needed airconditioning, we were there. When we found out about a problem with the security cars, we helped provide what was needed. With our help, the city is building a theater that will be named for George Schaeffer when it is dedicated next summer. What about tomorrow? What new needs have presented in Ma’aleh Adumim that we can help with, to change the future? A number of people from Ethiopia are among the new citizens who have moved into the city. They came with practically nothing, and most don’t speak Hebrew. Their young children are learning in school, but what about the parents? Beginning to settle in a new country without fluency in the language and lacking the skills to earn a living - what happens to them? What is the responsibility
of the city? Benny feels very strongly that the city has to step in and aid these families, which creates a new drain on the budget. The city provides hot lunches for the kids, afterschool programs, learning programs for the parents and many other benefits. In addition, there are hundreds of new citizens from the former Soviet Union settling in Ma’aleh Adumim with needs their fellow citizens are also helping to meet. All these programs cost money - lots of money. Wouldn’t it be nice to know that the city had enough money in its budget to cover all these costs? Unfortunately, because of the high cost of security in the city - as well as the security vehicles that cost a small fortune but are necessary to protect the residents - the budget cannot cover everything. Our responsibility is to help meet the needs of the people of Ma’aleh Adumim (who are already being taxed heavily), and provide the necessary support to our friend the mayor, who cares so deeply about his citizens.
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.
december 2014 VOI CE 9
NORTHEAST
region
Showcasing Israel with Heart and Soul
El Al staff describe their connection to Israel and what it means to them As part of the New York Speaker Series, on November 5 Bnai Zion hosted an enlightening discussion with El Al staff and crew called Navigating the Skies Despite Turbulent Times. Participants of El Al’s new program that presents different humanistic angles on Israel, the six El Al “ambassadors” discussed their work and their experiences this past summer when other airlines stopped flying into and out of Israel during periods of the Gaza war. The ambassadors speak to groups during their layovers in the various cities in which El Al operates, and many El Al staff members are volunteering their time in this program in order to present views of Israel not often seen in the media. Co-sponsored by StandWithUs, this dialogue about Israel from the perspective of those who work for El Al traveling the world was meaningful and heartwarming. With pride, humor and tenderness, the ambassadors showed how much they love and care about Israel in an uplifting and informative way.
Sukkah in the City: A Party With a Purpose Attendees learn about Bnai Zion projects in a festive way A diverse group of supporters and newcomers to Bnai Zion attended the Sukkah in the City party October 14, held on the beautiful terrace of the Bnai Zion House, with ideal weather. Guests enjoyed wine, cheese and music, and mingled in a gentle breeze inside and outside the sukkah while learning more about Bnai Zion life-transforming projects in Israel. Alicia Post, director of the northeast region, greeted everyone and briefly discussed the work of the organization, saying, “Bnai Zion welcomes the involvement of anyone who wants to help us achieve our fundraising goals,” and encouraged attendees to get more information. The sizeable sukkah, decorated for the holiday, included a lulav and etrog for those who wanted to make blessings.
10 VO I CE december 2014
The Head of Massachusetts Life Sciences Center is Honored Dr. Susan Windham-Bannister is recognized for advancing scientific innovation
T
he Bnai Zion Distinguished Humanitarian Award was presented at a tribute dinner in Newton, MA on October 21 to Dr. Susan Windham-Bannister, president and CEO of the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center for her work advancing scientific innovation, research and development to improve human health. Familiar with Israel from several previous trips, Dr. Windham-Bannister selected the Bnai Zion Medical Center in Haifa as the beneficiary of proceeds from the dinner, with the funds earmarked to help fund construction of the hospital’s new protected underground emergency facility. Co-chairs David Barone, Boston MedTech Advisors, Inc. and Dr. Dalia Cohen, Beryllium, LLC spoke eloquently about Dr. Windham-Bannister’s commitment to the field of science and the vital work of the Bnai Zion Medical Center. Dr. Michal Preminger, Harvard University Office of Technology Development, recited the traditional blessing of the bread, hamotzi. Bnai Zion thanks the honoree and all who attended and supported the dinner, including longtime supporter and friend, Kathryn Bloom. Riding on the momentum of the dinner, the organization will return to the Boston area to continue fundraising and strengthen its northeast presence.
december 2014 VOI CE 11
NORTHEAST
region
THE CONSUL GENERAL of ISRAEL in NEW YORK SPEAKS at TRIBUTE DINNER
The event garners support within the New York real estate industry Haim Hershkovitz, a graduate of the Technion and senior vice president of construction for El Ad U.S. Holding, Inc., received the Bnai Zion Distinguished Humanitarian Award at a festive dinner November 12 to benefit the Bnai Zion Medical Center in Haifa. After a cocktail hour in a magnificent tent on the Bnai Zion terrace, attendees continued to the auditorium, where the program continued and Jack Grunspan, Bnai Zion executive vice president, served as master of ceremonies and Alan Schwartz, the president of the northeast region, welcomed the group. The keynote speaker, Ambassador Ido Aharoni, Consul General of Israel in New York, gave an overview of current events, saying, “The situation in Lebanon is of great concern. The number of tunnels Hezbollah has is far greater than Hamas had in Gaza, and they have long-range missiles as well.” Proceeds from the dinner will help fund construction of a new underground protected emergency department in the Medical Center. Dr. Amnon Rofe, the hospital CEO visiting from Israel, said, “This new department will enable us to save countless lives in a secure environment in the event of war or attack, and getting it completed is our priority. Thank you for helping us make it happen.” Legendary Israeli singer Ron Eliran provided spirited entertainment, and the honoree thanked everyone for their support. We’re grateful to him and to dinner co-chairpersons Modi Feibish and Felix Wolkowitz for all they did to make the dinner an outstanding success.
12 VO I CE december 2014
TEXAS
region
Enthusiasm for the Gala Voiced at Planning Meeting The Texas region president organizes local promotion of annual event On September 28, Texas region president Diane Benjamin and her husband Jerry hosted a dinner in their home to welcome Bnai Zion honoree Dr. Jaime A. Davidson, his wife Ana Davidson, and a core group of Gala planning committee members to set the pace for the autumn promotion of the November 9 annual event. With proceeds from the Gala benefiting the Bnai Zion Medical Center, a lively discussion about the Medical Center took place at the meeting, where the guests - all dedicated to helping the Jewish State - emphasized the importance of raising funds for the new protected emergency department at the Medical Center. Diane said, “In view of the reality facing Israel to the north - with Hezbollah in Lebanon poised for another war, the Medical Center located just 28 miles from the border, and instability in Syria - advancing this project to fruition is a crucial need.” The group agreed that ensuring a sizable turnout at the Gala would be a significant benefit to the Medical Center.
ANOTHER AVENUE for PROMOTING the GALA On Sunday, September 7, Bnai Zion Texas region president Diane Benjamin and Texas region executive director Avrille Harris attended Pastor Sam Pollinzi’s event for Restored Hope Ministry and were given the opportunity to promote the annual Bnai Zion Texas region Gala. Over 600 people attended, included pastors from Covenant Church Colleyville Campus and others. Pastor Pollinzi spoke about Israel and the safety of the Jewish people, then invited Avrille to explain the priority of the Bnai Zion Medical Center, the construction of a new protected underground emergency department. “With ISIS in Syria and Hezbollah continuing to arm in Lebanon, the Medical Center must be prepared to save lives. Plans for the new protected emergency facility have been completed, and the hospital will begin to build, but outside contributions are vital to finish this project,” Avrille emphasized, with proceeds from the Gala earmarked for this purpose. Many of the pastors who attended the event are familiar with Bnai Zion and support its life-transforming work in Israel. Avrille was assured by many that they would try to take tables at the Gala.
A Moving Israeli Film Engages the Audience The Texas region supports the 18th Annual Jewish Film Festival At the Angelika Film Center on Saturday night, September 13, the Bnai Zion Texas region co-sponsored the screening of Hanna’s Journey, an Israeli film about a German business major, Hanna, volunteering to work with mentally challenged youth and elderly Holocaust survivors. Avrille Harris, the Texas region executive director, explained, “We chose this film for our Bnai Zion evening because of the great similarity between the Quittman Center at Israel Elwyn that we support in Israel, and the residential facility in the movie.” The event was sold out and the movie received good reviews. It was also an opportunity for distributing save-the-date cards for the November Gala. Volunteer Anita Messica did a wonderful job, and Brenda Marcus - in charge of introducing the films at the festival along with her husband – shared the similarity between the Quittman Center and the institution in the screen story.
december 2014 VOI CE 13
TEXAS
region
The Annual Gala Delivers to the Bnai Zion Medical Center Proceeds go toward construction of the new protected emergency facility
O
nce again the main ballroom at the Westin Galleria was filled with Bnai Zion supporters during its annual gala on November 9. This year the Distinguished Humanitarian Award was presented to Dr. Jaime A. Davidson and as an added bonus thanks to the efforts of Texas region president Diane Benjamin - the audience was privileged to hear the featured speaker, Michael Medved. Bnai Zion extends appreciation to Gala co-chairs Ynette Hogue and Janice Pullman, the sponsors, the auctioneer, Larry Strauss, and all the Texas region board members, staff, and volunteers who made the evening such a smashing success. David Eisenberg, Bnai Zion national president, and Dr. Amnon Rofe, CEO of the Bnai Zion Medical Center, attended as well. Dr. Rofe returned to Israel with a check in excess of $100,000 raised from the Gala.
14 VO I CE december 2014
december 2014 VOI CE 15
SOUTHEAST
region
Charisma and Commentary at Community Reception Rabbi Loring Frank is honored On November 4 the southeast region hosted a community reception in honor of Rabbi Loring Frank of All Peoples Synagogue. A celebration of love for Israel, it featured Israeli food from Tel Aviv Kosher Market, one of the event sponsors, and entertainment by Shalava Bert, the “voice of Jerusalem.” Bnai Zion executive vice president Jack Grunspan, the featured speaker for the reception, discussed the current situation in Israel. Karen Myer, who recently joined the board of the southeast region, commented that she loves Israel, and another presentation she recently attended about the Middle East was quite dull in comparison to Jack’s. He illustrated the dangerous environment Israel must deal with, and emphasized how important it is to stand by Israel at this time. Rabbi Rikki Arad, executive director of the southeast region and an Israeli native, said, “What Jack describes underscores the need to help Israel now. Giving today will help save lives in the future.” Proceeds from the reception were earmarked for the Bnai Zion Medical Center toward construction of the new underground emergency facility.
16 VO I CE december 2014
The Christian Community Embraces Israel Members of church give to appeal for Bnai Zion Medical Center
In September, Rabbi Rikki Arad was warmly welcomed as the guest speaker during Sunday services at the 93rd Street Baptist Church. Speaking about the need to strengthen Judeo-Christian relationships, Rabbi Arad explained that radical Islamist terrorist groups aim not only at the Jewish people, but at Christians as well. Describing the Bnai Zion Medical Center in Haifa, she said the policy of the hospital is to serve all patients in need of care regardless of their nationality or religion. Many of the attendees, moved by Rikki’s description, donated from their hearts and reached for a Bnai Zion envelope to sign up to give a monthly donation. Rabbi Arad was invited to speak a second time at the early service on November 9, when Rev. Dr. Pastor Carl Johnson was presented with an award from Bnai Zion recognizing his enthusiasm for and commitment to Israel. Even though the service began at 7:30am, the space - decorated with Israeli flags - was filled with congregants who believe in the importance of Israel and wanted to show their spirit.
WESTERN
region
YOUNG ADULTS HOST SOIRÉE to BENEFIT ISRAEL Hundreds of members of Kol Ahava take part The Kol Ahava organization in Los Angeles hosted a delightful cabaret evening to benefit the Bnai Zion Medical Center and raise funds for construction of its new underground protected emergency department. Attending the event were nearly 700 young adults, members of Kol Ahava, which hosted Dr. Amnon Rofe, the CEO of the Medical Center, as a guest speaker at a prior gathering. Both impressed with and concerned by what Dr. Rofe explained earlier in the year about the inevitability of an attack on Israel from the north, the leadership of Kol Ahava dedicated their major annual fundraiser to help the Medical Center move forward with its priority project. Thanks to Naveed M. Natanzi, DO and David and Liza Youssefyeh for serving as chairs of this event.
december 2014 VOI CE 17
WESTERN
region
An American Law Firm Expands Israeli Clients
An interview with William Mark Levinson, Co-Chair Financial Services Industry Practice Group, Fox Rothschild LLP What is the origin of your interest in and support of Israel? I’ve found many reasons to support the existence of the State of Israel and its development. Israel’s existence is important. My relatives supported Israel by sending freighter loads of cattle from Newport News to Israel in 1947-48, a source of pride for my family. After graduating from Cardozo School of Law of Yeshiva University, I worked at a prominent law firm that represented the Development Corporation for Israel, which offers Israel Bonds. One section within your firm is the Israel Practice Group. How did it evolve and long has it been in existence? When I joined Fox Rothschild, my partner, Mark Hess and I recognized the firm’s excellent position to establish a presence in Israel to bridge Israeli and U.S. business interests. We established the “Fox Rothschild Israel Practice Group,” currently with approximately 15 lawyers nationwide. Ari Weisbrot, who recently joined Fox, has a number of Israel-based clients and has helped to deepen and broaden our ability to assist our American and Israeli clients. Audrey Noll, a business and creditors’ rights lawyer who lives in Israel, joined the firm. Our attorneys understand the nuances and concerns of those residing in both the U.S. and in Israel, and this positively impacts the ultimate success of a transaction. Many lawyers in the Fox IPG speak Hebrew, which is very beneficial. What has the Fox IPG done to reach out to Israeli business interests? To nurture relationships and awareness of Fox Rothschild, earlier this year the Fox IPG hosted its first seminar in Tel Aviv focused on mergers and acquisitions, which included participants in the Israeli private equity and venture capitalist community and Neil Bush, brother of the former president. What is your role as the lead in this group? I take pride in bringing people together and developing positive synergies. We derive great satisfaction when a client completes an acquisition, a financing, an offering or any other transaction. We marry technical skill with creativity, energy and efficiency. The list of client areas within this Israel Practice Group is quite varied. Have you been involved with any client
18 VO I CE december 2014
projects that got a lot of public attention? To date the transactions have been private transactions. We routinely advise Israeli individuals and companies on the investment climate, estate planning, litigation and all manner of client needs. Are there other countries that are a focus of other Practice Groups at Fox Rothschild, or is this unique for Israel? Fox Rothschild’s transactional capabilities are broad. The firm, routinely deals with cosmetics and fashion companies in Europe, and we have a robust Asia practice. We also host the offices of the Southern California Mexican Chamber of Commerce and assist companies dealing with Mexico. You’re familiar with the Bnai Zion Medical Center and met Dr. Amnon Rofe, its CEO. Have you visited the Medical Center yet? Unfortunately, I have not. From learning about the Medical Center, what impressed you most about its work – why do you want to support it? Through its association with the Technion, its physicians have developed many important new medical techniques and procedures that make a difference to people everywhere. Dr. Rofe’s dedication to the Medical Center impressed me. When he explained his vision of a state-of-the-art emergency facility to handle trauma in a protected area, I wanted to help. Do you have relatives in Israel? My sister and her family live south of Jerusalem, and my niece currently serves in the IDF. Do you travel to Israel frequently? Not frequently enough! What would you tell a law school grad just starting out, about working with Israeli companies? Israeli startups and established companies are exciting to work with; Israeli businesses are cutting-edge and opportunities are endless. Israel is one of the top places in the world where capital flows, comparable with Europe and with Silicon Valley. If you’re a new lawyer, the future is tech and biotech and content and media, and Israel leads in all these arenas. Visit and develop your relationships! How’s your Hebrew? With the help of my partner Mark Hess, passable!
A SPARKLING ANNUAL EVENT RAISES FUNDS for ISRAEL Devotees gather every December At their annual dinner, Dr. Olitsa and Herman Roth once again brought together more than 250 people to help the members of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) serving in northern Israel. Their fundraiser is used to send much needed warm jackets, gloves, and hats for military members serving in northern Israel where temperatures drop below freezing during the winter. This year’s soirée featured a member of the Israeli Air Force who spoke first-hand of his flights over Gaza and what he had to endure during the 50-day battle. All of the net proceeds of the evening will immediately be sent to Israel so they can be put to work. A special thankyou to the lucky buyers of the exclusive jackets auctioned at the event - their generosity is greatly appreciated.
Celebrating a milestone
How a Fiftieth Wedding Anniversary Makes a Difference
Mel and Arlyne Parness, celebrating their fiftieth wedding anniversary, invited friends and family to mark their special occasion at a party in the Bnai Zion House on November 23. The heartfelt festivities included comments by Jack Grunspan, Bnai Zion executive vice president, and Rabbi Joseph Potasnik, executive vice president of the New York Board of Rabbis. Visiting from Israel was Benny Kashriel, the mayor of Ma’aleh Adumim, a city near Jerusalem, who spoke about Mel’s longterm support of his city and passion for helping Israel. A very moving video of the Parness family over the years, created by one of their daughters, depicted many highlights of their lives, including Jewish organization work and activities. Mel, executive vice president emeritus of Bnai Zion, thanked everyone for their good wishes, and for their contributions to Bnai Zion projects in honor of their anniversary. Congratulations to Mel & Arlyne on this special anniversary. May you be blessed with many more!
december 2014 VOI CE 19
special EVENTS
Bnai Zion Elects New Slate of National Board Members Bnai Zion congratulates the new members of its national board of directors, elected at the annual meeting in September. Under the stewardship of the national board, the organization aims to expand fundraising nationwide and create new sources of support for its projects. Thanks to everyone serving.
VICE PRESIDENTS Rubin Ferziger, Esq. Harvey Goldfarb Alan V. Schwartz Arnold Wagner
BOARD Sandford L. Batkin Rabbi Reuben Katz* Jan Kiderman Shelley Kilcoyne Ted Kirsch Elaine Ordan Morad Roshanzamir Larry Strauss Carole Wolanow
TREASURER Donald H. Vogelman, Esq.
*Past presidents
PRESIDENT David H. Eisenberg
HONORARY CHAIR Raymond M. Patt, Esq.*
CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD George W. Schaeffer*
FIRST VICE PRESIDENT Stephen J. Savitsky
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT NATIONAL SECRETARY Jack Grunspan EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT EMERITUS Mel Parness
ASSOCIATE TREASURER Gabriella Diamond
COMING in the MARCH VOICE • Our Projects: What a Day Encompasses • Coverage of our nationwide winter events • Updates and insight from Israel • Photos, commentary, info and lots more!
Do You Want to Profit & Help Israel at the Same Time?
Introducing a New Way for You to Benefit While Shopping We’re partnering with Dubli, a comprehensive online shopping and travel mall that provides you with cash back on every purchase, reaching as high as 15% off the purchase price. Dubli is membership-driven and features top brand retailers like Macys, Best Buy, Home Depot, Staples, Walmart, The Apple Store, Priceline and many others you can save with. With each purchase made, Dubli will make a donation to Bnai Zion, benefiting our projects. Sign up today as a VIP or free member. Go to bzshopping.org and start saving. You can shop from anywhere, anytime, and get cash back.* You'll profit, and our projects in Israel will profit as well! * Cash back rates depend on the membership level
20 VO I CE december 2014
special EVENTS
Bnai Zion Powers Up in the Washington Tri-State Area
New contacts help establish a base for significant fundraising activities
m
A September event launches expanded programming Jack Grunspan, Bnai Zion executive vice president, recently assigned the additional responsibility of developing the organization’s presence and fundraising in the greater Washington, DC area to Marc Nadelman, national director of development. Marc will focus his efforts on communities from northern Virginia to southern Maryland. Jack indicated that “the decision to expand our efforts in this area was based on the resounding success of the September 10 reception held at the home of Marcia Nirenstein and David Miller.”
“Mr. Shani is a significant figure in modern Israeli history, having been the pilot for the raid on Entebbe.” More than fifty individuals attended the reception, which featured Dr. Amnon Rofe, CEO of the Bnai Zion Medical Center, and Joshua Shani, chief executive of Lockheed Martin Israel, as the featured speaker. Mr. Shani is a significant figure in modern Israeli history, having been the pilot for the raid on Entebbe. Jack Grunspan served as master of ceremonies, and Patrick Dewar, chairman of Lockheed Martin Global, made brief comments. The guests at the reception were each distinguished in their professions and represented a cross-
section of people involved in high-level Israel advocacy and causes. Thanks to David and Marcia for their support and hospitality. A new advisory board springs into action Bnai Zion is proud to announce the formation of its Capital District advisory board. Haim Haviv, Embassy of Israel, Yola Johnston, Lockheed Martin and Adam Munitz, Fluet Huber + Hoang are founding members of this board, whose purpose is to help Bnai Zion gain greater recognition in the community and increase its fundraising. Marc Nadelman said, “We’re honored to have this group of individuals committed to assisting Bnai Zion in its continued efforts to provide needed facilities and programs to the people of Israel. Having representatives of the Embassy of Israel, the defense industry and the legal profession provides a strong, diverse base for us.”
december 2014 VOI CE 21
our PROJECTS in ISRAEL
The Multi-Faceted Bnai Zion Medical Center Advances in Many Areas
New treatments and discoveries offer medical solutions
THE CARDIOLOGY DEPARTMENT LEADS ISRAEL in NEW TECHNOLOGY
For the first time in Israel, a unique filter that prevents an embolus at catheterization was transplanted at the heart of a patient. The WIRION is a distal embolic protection system comprised of an independent filter unit that can be delivered, locked and deployed on any commercially marketed guide wires - according to physician preference - anywhere on the wire, in minimally invasive interventional procedures. The system includes catheterization with a filter that conveys a unique mechanism installed on the standard conductor, which is designed to collect an embolus and prevent damages. According to Prof. Uri Rosenschein, the head of the cardiology department and the catheterization unit, the filter constitutes protection from an embolus and
22 VO I CE december 2014
significantly reduces major complications that may occur following a stent transplant, when an embolus can cause damage to the muscle of the heart and stenosis. The cardiology department continues to be a pioneer in surgery and catheterization. Recently, the medical staff was the first in Israel (and eighth in the world) to transplant the unique filter to be used during catheterization. Prior to the development of this filter, surgeons only used a filter for the carotid artery. This is the first filter that is used in catheterizations after coronary artery bypass surgery, which can increase the probability of an embolus among 10% of patients when the new filter is not used. The results of the new filter system are very encouraging and go toward having this technology available to every patient that needs to go through any catheterization that could cause an embolus. The new system has been used successfully with no complications on eight patients.
Heralding a Breakthrough in Research of Pertussis The Medical Center recently conducted research that examined the influence of a pertussis (whooping cough) vaccine on pregnant women and the protection mechanisms derived as result. According to Prof. Isaac Srugo, head of the pediatric department and the microbiology lab, the results of this research conducted by Dr. Ellen Bamberger and Dr. Baha Abu Ria, both pediatricians, indicate that the major mechanism for protection derived from this vaccine is mediated by transferring antibodies through the placenta to the infant. In addition, for the first time in the world, researchers successfully identified the ultimate period for vaccination that will create the highest level of antibodies in the baby during labor. Prof. Srugo says that pertussis is a respiratory disease seen with increasing frequency in Israel and in the world, with morbidity mainly among babies.
“For the first time in the world, researchers successfully identified the ultimate period for vaccination that will create the highest level of antibodies in the baby� Since 2012, the Israel ministry of health has recommended that pregnant women starting gestational week 20 should be vaccinated. Recently the recommendation was updated for weeks 27-36 (though women can be vaccinated at any phase of their pregnancy). Researchers also examined the concept of transferring antibodies created through the vaccine via breastfeeding, finding that the vaccine created specific antibodies against pertussis in breast milk. These findings, presented at a European conference on pediatric infectious diseases held a few months ago in Ireland, were received with much interest from researchers attending from all over the world. Dr. Bamberger and Dr. Abu-Ria plan to continue this research and examine other aspects of the vaccine.
Fortify Israel Today & Save Lives Tomorrow Help Make a Modern-day Miracle The Bnai Zion Medical Center in Haifa has begun construction of a new protected underground emergency department, but needs funds to complete it. With Hezbollah and ISIS in the north, building this new facility is a critical need.
Help protect Israel today! 100% of all designated gifts to Bnai Zion are immediately transferred to our projects in Israel
Contribute at bnaizion.org december 2014 VOI CE 23
OUR EXCEPTIONAL PROJECTS:
What Makes Them Unique Myriad institutions and cities in Israel provide wonderful services to the country’s diverse population. But the four institutions and the city Bnai Zion supports offer unparalleled excellence in all they do and in the ways they help their beneficiaries, making them stand out from the others. Learn how the Bnai Zion Medical Center, Ahava Village for Children & Youth, Ma’aleh Adumim, the Quittman Center at Israel Elwyn and the David Yellin Academic College of Education reach the ne plus ultra in their respective fields, and surge ahead in their accomplishments and results.
At the Bnai Zion Medical Center
Outstanding Programs Mean Progress for Northern Residents of Israel The Bnai Zion Medical Center was established as the first Jewish hospital in Haifa and provides dedicated medical care, education, research and services with a personal and humane touch to the diverse, expanding population of northern Israel. It is the only governmental, general hospital in northern Israel with a rehabilitation department offering neurological, orthopedic and general rehabilitation with programs for both long-term physical and emotional rehabilitation, as well as short-term acute care, to help patients optimize their functional integration into society. The department accepts patients from all health insurance companies, soldiers from the Israel Defense Forces, and individuals from the Ministry of Defense for treatment. The Child Development Center headed by Prof. Emanuel Tirosh was established in 1976 as the only program of its kind in Haifa and northern Israel, and today is recognized in the region as the leading institution for the diagnosis and treatment of children from infancy to age 6 who have neurological-developmental challenges. The center provides consultation, assessment and ongoing treatment for a range of issues: genetic syndromes, autism, cerebral palsy, language and learning disorders and others. Operating with a multidisciplinary family-oriented approach, both the family and the child are a focus of treatment. Ofarim is the only diagnostic, developmental service for blind and visually impaired children in northern Israel. Committed to developmental treatment beginning in infancy, the staff strongly believes that early treatment can make all the difference. The unit treats blind and visually impaired children up to age 6, after which most of the children attend regular schools. The ear and hearing program, chaired by Prof. Michal Luntz, is one of the leading endeavors of its kind in Israel, and is the only cochlear implant center in northern Israel. The cochlear implant is a bionic ear device installed in the inner ear to restore damaged hearing organs. More than 1,000 children, Jewish and Arab, from all over northern Israel are currently treated in the program, which annually has more than 300 new referrals.
Integrating complementary medicine for in-patients was launched in 2010 in the general surgery department under the leadership of Dr. Elad Schiff, chair of Internal Medicine, and a graduate of a fellowship at the Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine led by Dr. Andrew Weil. Free to patients referred by department staff according to certain parameters and clinical considerations, the services include preparation for surgery in the outpatient clinic, treatment before and after surgery and in the recovery unit. Treatment is offered in standard patient rooms as well, often with therapeutic recommendations for family members. The complementary medicine service has expanded to the cardiology, pediatric surgery, urology and post-anesthesia care departments, and is provided by eight experienced, skilled professionals practicing hypnosis, guided imagery, reflexology, Chinese acupuncture, and integration among these modalities. The Multidisciplinary Center for Sexual Abuse and Incest victims is the only program of its kind in Israel, providing victims from Haifa and northern Israel with comprehensive care for abuse, incest and rape. Victims receive care free of charge, including long-term clinical therapy and social support, such as assistance with housing, employment, and daycare.
december 2014 VOI CE 25
our PROJECTS in ISRAEL In Ahava Village for Children & Youth
New Approaches Lead to Exemplary Care Ahava Village is a campus with residential care, education and therapy for over 200 abused children ages 6-18. Important decisions have resulted in improved ways of helping these children regain a sense of normalcy in their lives. The Therapeutic Family-Care Units In 1991, the world of residential childcare was based on the design of large groups of similarly aged children living in sizeable dormitory bedrooms with shared communal showers and toilets. The leadership of Ahava Village, realizing it would be much better for children at risk removed by court order from their natural homes to be cared for in a normative, functioning family environment, created family care units. Ahava then became a community of family care units, in which a small group of children of mixed ages lives in an apartment adjacent to that of a normal functioning family with a couple of caregivers, their natural children, and their pets. Being more family-oriented and less institution-oriented, this model - in addition to providing a warmer, more nurturing setting - enables better staff stability, particularly crucial for these children.
“Ahava then became a community of family care units� Ahava also developed the concept of therapeutic daycare family units, which provide children with a variety of educational and therapeutic activities and work with their natural families, nurturing the supportive family relationship. The 18+ Program (After Care) Eight years ago, following the suicide of an Ahava graduate, Ahava leadership determined that residential care graduates without family support are too young to begin adult life during their military/national service or in civilian life, an issue unaddressed by welfare authorities in Israel (and worldwide in the residential care realm in general). The graduate who took his life after completing three years of military service in the Israel Defense Forces felt
26 VO I CE december 2014
he had nowhere to turn to for help and support. Ahava staff decided to create a support framework for these youth on the cusp of adulthood, until they are able to live independently as functioning adults. The village offers homes for young adults ages 18+ during their IDF/national service period (for weekends, holidays, and while on leave), and during their vocational training or higher studies. These residents are supported and guided by professional staff who prepare them for independent normative life as an adult. Following the positive experience with the After Care system, other organizations in Israel and in other countries are requesting guidance from Ahava to create their own After Care programs.
Students Have Appealing Choices in Ma’aleh Adumim The Aviation and Space College has a dual curriculum Ma’aleh Adumim, a bright, welcoming city seven kilometers from Jerusalem that helps form part of the security belt of Israel’s capital, has many assets that enhance the quality of life of its 40,000 residents. The Aviation and Space College was established a decade ago by the joint effort of the Israeli Air Force (AIF) and the Ma’aleh Adumim municipality. With three high schools in the city, this is an advanced one (in spite of being called a college). There are over a dozen AIF colleges in Israel that specialize in pre-draft training of future IAF technicians. Most of them are military schools with the elements that implies: students wear a military uniform, are subject to military discipline, and agree to an AIF duty contract. The unique feature of the Aviation and Space College is that it has both military and civilian classes. Five hundred students are given a choice between a military and a civilian career - the only school in Israel where 300 military cadets and 200 civilian students sit side-by-side in the same classrooms. Thanks to AIF support, the college is equipped with state-of-the-art technical and computer facilities and even has a real observatory (one of the special features of the school). Three majors are available to students: aeronautics, robotronics and biomedicine. The college serves two purposes: it provides the AIF with well-trained personnel, and its presence elevates the educational opportunities for the youth of Ma’aleh Adumim. The academic level of the college is very high, and nearly 100% of its graduates matriculate to universities and academic colleges.
december 2014 VOI CE 27
our PROJECTS in ISRAEL At the Quittman Center
A Day to Network and Dream Jerusalem High School students formulate plans for their future
Israel Elwyn provides services to people with disabilities from early childhood through retirement, including supported living at the Quittman Center, early intervention, education, vocational training and placement. Reshet (Hebrew for “network”), a unique program is for teenage students with physical and sensory disabilities and diminished cognitive skills enrolled in the regular education system, prepares them for independence while giving them exposure to opportunities in the post-high school world: military or national service, employment, continuing education, and interaction with the community. Reshet focuses on three areas: Society, the Community and Me, which deals with personal and interpersonal skills; preparation for meaningful service (military or civilian); and preparation for employment. Networking in Jerusalem, held in the spring, hosted 52 Reshet participants from Ashdod, Ashkelon and Beersheva who travelled to the capital to practice what they had learned about preparing for employment (resumes, job interviews, employer-employee relations, etc.) and discussed the career they hope to have. Each individual practiced engaging in small talk, building self-confidence, and exploring career options, then presented their employment aspiration to the many adult volunteers who came to listen and provide feedback. The teens said it had been a significant experience that gave them a feeling of empowerment and team-building. Career - Why Now? was the subject of the next panel. Participants included David Regev, ombudsman for The Second Authority for Television & Radio; Danny Gruner, who works with the assistance of IE support services;
28 VO I CE december 2014
Becky Seidman, born with damage to her spinal cord; and Haim Zafrani, born without hearing. They all spoke about their life experiences and gave the teenagers important tips to transition into adulthood. Ali Atuana, a high school sophomore, said, “Reshet has given me a lot. What I’ve learned has sharpened my thinking about career and about planning military service. The preparations for today’s program gave us real tools for life.” Chen Chayut, a junior, said, “Reshet is a place to share. We live in a complex reality – trying to close the gap between the expectations everyone has of us and achievements that are increasingly difficult to attain. I’m leaving with a lot of important information.” Hila Uzan, a senior, said, “Reshet revealed so much to me. After today, I understand the importance of awareness and of developing a career plan.” Reshet is operated by Israel Elwyn in cooperation with the Ministry of Social Affairs and Social Services, JDC-Ashalim, The National Insurance Institute-Fund for Special Programs, and the Ministry of Education.
At the David Yellin Academic College of Education
Education Toward Sustainability Developed in Israel Yields Positive Results in Kenya Generations of students have studied in the David Yellin Academic College of Education in the Beit Hakerem neighborhood in Jerusalem, becoming pedagogues and teachers. While there are numerous other colleges in the city, the David Yellin College stands out by striving to instill knowledge and values promoting education towards sustainability. The institute for education toward sustainability within the College has operated since 2007. It incorporates academic staff members, administrators and students who jointly promote a comprehensive approach of social sustainability, environmental sustainability and education toward sustainability and instill a sustainable culture within the College. The institute also contains the Social Art Gallery and an ecological garden, and the College was awarded the title Green Campus by the Israeli ministry of environmental protection. Education toward sustainability incorporates knowledge (mind), skills (hand), and values (heart), and its expression in the College can be seen within academia, in the physical environment of the campus, and within the community. The ecological garden within the College was first planted 75 years ago as a botanical garden designed to represent and preserve the Mediterranean woodlands environment. It is now used to teach sustainability and demonstrate working and learning combined with environmentally friendly rules of conduct. It contains a rich mosaic of spaces: a historical plot of natural woodland, a water pool, a plot of herbs and vegetables, a plot of butterfly- and bird-attracting plants, a geological garden, a site for collection and secondary use of water, a nursery, a compost production station, a recycling center and a “life tools� center reconstructing simple manual labor skills such as weaving, sewing, carpentry and pottery. The institute collaborates with entities outside of the College. Eyal Bloch, a co-founder of the institute, describes first collaborative steps with Kenyan educators. In 2009, a group of African and Asian pedagogues had a tour of the College and were impressed with the educational-ecological
garden initiated by co-founder Dr. Michal Yuval. Five years after that meeting, which led to an agreement between the Israeli ministry of foreign affairs and the Kenyan ministry of education, the College has trained 150 senior Kenyan educators in education toward sustainability, based on concepts and models developed in the College. Two examples demonstrate the progress and change that the College was able to introduce in Kenya: A headmaster of a school with 2,000 students near ‘Nkuru set up a garden of about an acre, a nursery with hundreds of trees and seedlings, a fish pond, a small cowshed, a weather forecast station, a garden with a variety of plants that can be cultivated, and an area to raise rabbits. In the central headmaster-training institute, two eighthgrade students demonstrate education toward sustainability, by designing greeting cards made out of paper waste. The cards provide a decent weekly income, part of which is donated to their school, with the remainder used to pay tuition and ease the economic burden on their parents. In recognition of these impressive achievements, the Kenyan ministry of education promotes education toward sustainability as an integral part of the general curriculum, and of the headmaster-training program in Kenya as well.
december 2014 VOI CE 29
LOOKING for the PERFECT SPACE for a PRIVATE PARTY, EVENT or SEMINAR?
Our beautiful auditorium is available at the Bnai Zion House in New York. For information go to bnaizion.org or call 646 485 7980 Seats 150-200 DIETARY LAWS OBSERVED
30 VO I CE december 2014
Remembering Aaron Ignal Aaron served with distinction as national treasurer and national vice president of Bnai Zion. He was also the president of the Queens region. When he and Eleanor, z”l, were married, Aaron did not realize he was also marrying the Bnai Zion family, as Eleanor was a second generation member. Currently their daughter Shelley serves on the national board and their grandson Michael is active in the Bnai Zion New Leadership division.
All Forms of InsuranceAaron was an entrepreneur, known to have a great
sense of humor, with a special love for his family, always putting them ahead of himself. His generosity extended beyond Bnai Zion and many organizations were beneficiaries of his charity.
COMMERCIAL INSURANCE
• • • • • • •
Importers Wholesalers Retailers General Liability Product Liability Professional Liability Group Health
Bnai Zion mourns the loss of one of our steadfast members. He will surely be missed. May his family be comforted among the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem.
All Forms of Insurance
PERSONAL INSURANCE
• Home COMMERCIAL INSURANCE • Auto • Importers (Inc. Supplementary & Uninsured Motorists) • Wholesalers • Life • Retailers • Long Term Care • General Liability
All Forms All of Insurance Forms of Insurance All At Competitive Rates! • בתים • רכב • חיים COMMERCIAL INSURANCE • בריאות COMMERCIAL INSURANCE • Importers • עסקים
• • • • • •
• Importers Wholesalers • Wholesalers Retailers YECHIEL BROMBERG General Liability• Retailers Product Liability • General Liability Professional Liability • Product Liability Group Health • Professional Liability
Tel: 718-692-3888 Fax: 718-377-2020
E-mail: ybromberg@eliteins.com • Group Health PERSONAL INSURANCE 3004 Avenue L, Brooklyn, NY 11210 • Home PERSONAL INSURANCE
• Product Liability • Professional Liability • Group Health PERSONAL INSURANCE
• Home • Auto (Inc. Supplementary & Uninsured Motorists) • Life • Long Term Care
All At Competitive Rates!
• Auto • Home (Inc. Supplementary & Uninsured Motorists) • Auto • Life (Inc. Supplementary & Uninsured YECHIELMotorists) BROMBERG • Long Term Care
• Life
Long Term Care All At Competitive •Rates! • בתים
Tel: 718-692-3888 Fax: 718-377-2020
• בתים • רכב • חיים • בריאות • עסקים
december 2014 VOI CE 31
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
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED