over a hundred years of making a difference
March 2012• Volume 97• No. 3
How Far We’ve Come
specia l f eature
then & now at Our Projects
Houston Dinner Inspires Texans to Give Education about Ahava Village in the Bay Area
Treating with Inventive Methods at the Bnai Zion Medical Center A New Interfaith Committee Sets Goals
march 2012 12
11 19
28
contents 3 The Past Meets the Present
NEW YORK REGION
5 Much More than Meetings By David H. Eisenberg, President
18 Partnering with a Prominent Israeli Museum
7 Is the Gift Annuity for You? By Jack Grunspan Executive Vice President
SOUTHEAST REGION
8 A Special Briefing in Israel
19 Exposure at Womanity Conference
9 Presidential Politics in 2012 By Mel Parness Executive Vice President Emeritus
OUR PROJECTS IN ISRAEL
WESTERN REGION
special feature
11 Getting Organized 12 A Fundraiser in San Francisco
TEXAS REGION
22 Insight and Input at the Bnai Zion Medical Center
24 Our Projects: Then & Now 30 The Voice: Decades of Evolution
14 Tapping into the Houston Community 16 A Major Church Supports Israel
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events Texas Region
Sunday, May 6 Annual Brunch to benefit Ahava Village
NEW YORK REGION Saturday, April 28 Yom Ha’atzmaut Party
national
Note from the Editor
The Past Meets the Present by Lisa Paule
The theme of then and now, often a fascinating feature in design magazines, takes on new meaning with this issue. Bnai Zion has come a long way since the 1930s, when the Voice was entirely text, resembled a newspaper and had an entire page in Yiddish. But noteworthy development is most evident at our projects. At the Bnai Zion Medical Center, the new pediatric surgery department excels in services provided to the expanding northern population; at Ahava Village for Children & Youth, saving abused children at risk has been expedited by the opening of a new emergency shelter; and with the wonderful new George W. Schaeffer Music Conservatory in Ma’aleh Adumim, there are cultural opportunities for all the residents, which were previously unavailable. Bnai Zion has grand plans to help those in need in Israel across the medical, educational, cultural and social-service spectrum. With your help, in a decade we’ll look back at our accomplishments and see again how very far we’ve come.
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 Cheryl Bier • 646 485 7980 • cheryl.bier@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
Creating an Historical Contrast for Our Cover
Israel mixes the old and the new as no other country can do We welcome artist Doug Cowan, the cover illustrator for this issue, who portrays our Then & Now theme with two different views of Israel, expressing the image of modern Israel as it has developed from its earlier roots. Doug, whose original artwork has been shown at the Coca-Cola Museum in Atlanta, at The Society of Illustrators in New York, and in the Salmagundi Club there, has also had his artwork featured in print in The New York Times, The Deal Magazine, Heavy Metal, Esquire Russia, and Wind-Up Records. Originally from western Massachusetts, Doug studied drawing and painting at Pratt Institute in Brooklyn and before graduating in 2006, he received multiple student awards from the Society of Illustrators in New York. Doug lives in Massachusetts with his family. We are fortunate to have his detailed, dynamic work gracing our cover.
march 2012 VOI CE 3
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 7.7% $10,000 $770 80 8.7% $10,000 $870 85 9.8% $10,000 $980
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. Name Address City
State
Zip
Phone Email Best time to call
Confidential information is needed to complete illustration. Name of person to receive annuity payments: Name Date of Birth
2nd person if applicable Name Date of Birth Amount to be used for illustration: ($5,000 minimum) $
Type of Asset:
❑ Cash ❑ Stocks/Bonds (original cost) $______________________ ❑ Israel Bonds DESIRED FREQUENCY OF PAYMENT:
❑ Annual
❑ Semi-Annual
❑ Quarterly
❑ Monthly
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
Editor In Chief Lisa Paule Business Manager Jack Grunspan Art Director Matthew Papa Printing & Producing Cummings Printing Contributing Writers Irwin Blank David H. Eisenberg Jack Grunspan Mel Parness Raymond M. Patt Lisa Paule George W. Schaeffer Contributing Photographers Russell Curtis Eric Kleiman Linor Schmeidler Cover Illustration Doug Cowan 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
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VO I CE march 2012
president
David H. Eisenberg
A Conference in Israel: Much More than Meetings Fran and I just returned from an eye-opening trip to Israel. As the national president of Bnai Zion, we joined Jack Grunspan, our executive vice-president, for the annual mission of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations. Before the conference started we had a quick visit at the Bnai Zion Medical Center and then continued to Ahava Village for Children & Youth for the dedication ceremony of the new emergency shelter that was just opened there. It was a very moving ceremony, as this facility was a dire need, and unfortunately, there is still a huge loan due for the construction of it. Yoav Apelboim, the director of Ahava, the staff and the children all extended their deepest appreciation for our continued support - especially when we presented a check to help them on their way. The COP is an umbrella organization representing fiftytwo Jewish organizations in the United States, of which Bnai Zion is a member. It was established in the days of President Roosevelt when the White House asked the Jewish community to get organized and not have each organization come knocking on their door independently of each other. Never having attended this conference before, I had no idea what to expect but was pleasantly surprised and impressed by both the attendees and the guest speakers.
The COP brought us the highest echelon of Israel’s society. The first evening we were greeted by prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, preceded by the mayor of Jerusalem, the Hon. Nir Barkat. The days following included appearances by Amb. Danny Nevo, ambassador of Israel to Jordan, the Hon. Yuli Edelshtein, minister of public affairs and the diaspora, the Hon. Tzipi Livni, a member of the Knesset and head of Israel’s Kadima party, Lt. Gen. Benny Gantz, chief of staff, Israel Defense Forces, and other similarly distinguished individuals. On one particularly fascinating day, we traveled to Jordan and on that day, we were greeted by the foreign minister of Jordan and the king of Jordan, his Highness King Abdullah; and we had lunch at the home of the Israeli ambassador to Jordan, who was joined by the American ambassador to Jordan. The king emphasized his support for the peace plan and extended his personal appreciation to his “friend,” prime minister Netanyahu, who he said is committed to the two-state solution and sitting at the table to arrive at a final and just peace plan. I came away from those meetings with a wealth of knowledge to share, much of which the general population in the U.S. may not be aware of. I was proud to represent you, the members and supporters of Bnai Zion, in this prestigious forum, and look forward to continue to share this wealth of information with you. Fran and I wish you a happy Passover and joyous holiday season.
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please join us on our Bnai Zion
Liberty Mission to Israel led by Judy and David Gitlin June 27 to July 5, 2012
Experience the wonder and splendor of Israel and learn about our work that makes a positive difference in the lives of so many in need. Enjoy magnificent sights and sounds and get a feeling for what makes Israel unique and special.
Mission Highlights • Panoramic views from Tel Aviv's renowned C2 restaurant • Visit to a former secret munitions factory important during the War of Independence
Land-only package includes • 8 nights of luxury hotel accommodations in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Tiberias and Haifa • Israeli breakfast daily and most meals
• Exploration of Western Wall tunnels
• 8 days of guided touring throughout
• Wine-tasting at one of Israel's premier wineries
• And much, much more!
• Glimpse into Tefen High-Tech Industrial Park • Seaside dinner in Caesarea • Briefings with dignitaries, government spokespeople and industry experts
$3,250* per person based on double occupancy Single supplement $1,385 * includes $500 tax-deductible gift to Bnai Zion
• Visits to Bnai Zion projects to see our work firsthand
For inquiries & bookings please contact the travel agency for this mission, YPM Travel / Sarit Eitan or Gitza Jacobowitz 516 349 8000 or ypmtravel@hotmail.com
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VO I CE march 2012
executive vice president
jack grunspan
Is the Gift Annuity for You? Many people have asked, “Why should I establish a Gift Annuity? Sure, the interest is higher, but I never get back the principal.” So, let’s take a look at the numbers. Joe, age 72, has $20,000 in the bank invested in a CD earning an insulting rate of 1.2%. He needs $1,200 a year to supplement his living expenses. At his current rate of earnings, the entire principal will be gone in less than 17 years. If he were to establish a Gift Annuity, Joe would get 7.2% on his $20,000. In addition, he would get a Charitable Tax Deduction in the amount of $3,390 saving him approximately $1,000 of income tax, reducing his real cost to $19,000 and giving him a yield of 7.6%. As well, for the first fourteen years, 79% of his payments are tax free, saving him an additional $343 of income tax, annually. This means that the Gift Annuity would give him an annual income of $1,440 plus $343 (income tax savings on the earnings), or a total of $1,783. Joe only needs $1,200 a year, so based on the figures compared to his CD investment, at the end of 17 years with his CD investment
he would have nothing left of his original $20,000. At the end of 17 years with a Gift Annuity, Joe would still have $4,000 of extra earnings and would continue to receive his annual income for life!
“ Joe would still have $4,000
of extra earnings and would continue to receive his annual income for life!” So, would you rather worry about giving away the principal, which will disappear in seventeen years, or give your money to Bnai Zion, which will give you a lifetime income and at the end will benefit humanitarian projects? You decide.
For any specific questions, please feel free to call Jack Grunspan, executive vice-president for a confidential discussion at 212 725 1211.
a minimum of 90% of all designated gifts to Bnai Zion will be transferred to our projects in Israel. march 2012 VOI CE 7
national
Celebrating a momentous occasion at Ahava Village for Children & Youth
A New Emergency Shelter Offers Refuge to Traumatized Children
In late February, a new emergency shelter was dedicated at Ahava Village after years of planning and funding this life-saving project. The emergency shelter is used by Ahava for situations when either the police or child welfare center phone to inform Ahava management that there is a child that must be removed from his or her home immediately, as the child is suffering in unsafe and life-threatening conditions. For years the previous Ahava emergency shelter was a distance from the Ahava campus in an old building that was recently condemned by the housing authorities. As the result of heroic efforts by the executive director of Ahava, Yoav Apelboim, and friends and supporters like Bnai Zion, the new shelter was able to be finished just in time. David Eisenberg, Bnai Zion national president, attended the dedication ceremony with his wife, Fran, and said, “This building brings the service and responsibility of Ahava to a new level and will be instrumental in the initial critical care of these children.” The shelter will house the children - sometimes for as long as six months - until the court processes each case and ultimately assigns them to live with the rest of the children at Ahava. Yoav was beaming. “This building is another dream come true for me! Having just passed my 60th birthday, I look at this as the best present someone could have given me.” During the ceremony Bnai Zion presented Ahava with a check to help meet the outstanding financial obligations of this project.
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A New Interfaith Committee Broadens the Appeal Outreach to the non-Jewish community will enhance fundraising efforts “Bnai Zion has created a newly formed interfaith committee,” announced national president David Eisenberg. “The goal of the committee is to further community ties between Christians and Jews, as related to Israel and its citizens, through mutual understanding, education and financial support.” Stephen Savitsky, a recently elected member of the national board, agreed to serve as the chairman of the committee. “This is something that I feel all Jewish organizations should be doing, and I’m glad that Bnai Zion has gotten a head start with this program.” The committee will consist of representatives from Jewish and Christian communities, and will help crystallize the process to reach its desired goals.
executive vice president emeritus
mel parness
Presidential Politics in 2012 This year’s election campaign was going to be about the economy and jobs, almost exclusively. The Republican candidates were talking about president Obama and the unemployment rate being over 9% with no decrease on the horizon, then the economy began to improve and ever so slightly, the rate began to drop and the polls showed Obama closing the gap. With so many candidates on the Republican side it was inevitable that all sorts of other issues would surface, in order to distinguish one candidate from the others.
“ The negatives for each
of the candidates seem to outweigh the positives and leave us with little choice.” Now, in the beginning of March, we have four Republicans in the race and talk of a "brokered" convention. Look at what the headlines are talking about now: contraception, abortion, who-is-more- religious, who-will-bringreligion-into-politics, etc. I believe, and always have, that the religious belief of an individual is between him and his God, and not something that should be part of our political system, and I strongly believe in the separation of church and state and was happy to vote for Kennedy in 1960. In his short tenure as president, he never forced his personal beliefs on the American people.
Unfortunately, the group of candidates seeking the leadership of our nation has not excited the electorate, and most individuals I speak with are trying to determine which one of them will do the least harm over the next four years. What a sad situation! The negatives for each of the candidates seem to outweigh the positives and leave us with little choice. The Republican candidates continually say they want less intrusion of government in our lives, but want to legislate things that should be private between people and their physicians or their clergymen. The media listens to their protestations, but never asks them to explain this situation. President Obama, has yet to display any real leadership with regard to Israel, our closest ally in the Middle East, even though he keeps saying that we have Israel's back. Our government should stand shoulder to shoulder with Israel and tell the Palestinians to stop wasting time and sit at the table with Israel and talk peace. Many years ago, an Israeli leader spoke to a group of Americans and said he believed in land for peace. He then asked what land the Palestinians were willing to give up for peace. In about six months, we will elect a new administration to guide our great nation for the next four years. I sincerely hope we will have the opportunity to elect someone with vision, charisma, strength and the ability to understand not only the world economy, but the international political scene. An individual who knows what is best for the world, and how closely intertwined the people of the world are, and who will be able to set aside his or her personal religious beliefs when they interfere with what the people want. I am still but I am concerned and worried. The optimistic, 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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Coming in the
june Voice
• Photos from the annual Dallas Brunch • Updates from our projects in Israel • Coverage of two important receptions in Los Angeles and New York • Commentary, insight, and a preview of our summer schedule and much more!
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Western
region
Starting Fresh in Los Angeles Newcomers are welcomed at a meeting to launch our revitalized Western Region This past December the western region of Bnai Zion held its kickoff introductory meeting for the community at the beautiful Beverly Hills home of Jackie and Victor Cohenca. The event brought in excess of seventy people to this informational gathering, many of whom were unfamiliar with Bnai Zion achievements and objectives. Attendees included respected business people and well known local Jewish leaders. Guests included Chana and Raanan Gal from Israel, volunteers at Ahava Village for Children & Youth, one of the five ongoing humanitarian projects that Bnai Zion supports. Following a sumptuous buffet, a video encapsulating Bnai Zion’s 100th anniversary was shown to inform the group of the organization’s scope throughout the twentieth century.
This was followed by remarks from Jack Grunspan, Bnai Zion executive vice-president, who shared his thirty-eightyear personal involvement with Bnai Zion, giving the audience an insider’s point of view. George Schaeffer, Bnai Zion national chairman of the board, addressed the audience as well, as he has been involved as a volunteer and major supporter for close to forty-five years. His personal commitment and love for Bnai Zion and what it accomplishes came through loud and clear, especially when he informed the audience of a new Bnai Zion capability: that a minimum of 90% of all designated gifts will be transferred to its projects in Israel.
The New Western Region Steering Committee Gets Underway This group will help broaden fundraising and awareness on the West Coast On January 10 the first steering committee meeting of the western region took place in the lovely Beverly Hills home of Sandy and Mike Feldmar. At this event the region established its women’s division and events committee to expand the fundraising and awareness activities in southern California. There were forty people in attendance who were interested in getting involved with Bnai Zion, including Caren and Nathan Adler who, following the meeting, went to Israel and toured all five of the Bnai Zion projects. Caren has graciously agreed to serve as the chair of the newly formed women’s division, for which we are very grateful.
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Western
region
promoting Bnai Zion in the Bay Area Educators Are Recognized in San Francisco
D
ennis and Hene Kelly were honored at a dinner in San Francisco on January 12, and were recognized for their commitment to all the people of San Francisco. Dennis is the president of the United Educators of San Francisco and Hene, a retired teacher, is a community activist. Leaders in the labor and Jewish communities were present to praise the Kellys. Proceeds from the dinner will help fund the important work done at Ahava Village for Children & Youth. Bnai Zion is most appreciative of the relationships that have been forged within the fields of labor and education. The following are highlights of these connections: • Linda Bridges, president of the Texas American Federation of Teachers, was our first guest of honor from the field of labor.
• Dr. Lorretta Johnson, secretary-treasurer of the American Federation of Teachers AFL-CIO was honored by Bnai Zion and subsequently visited Ahava Village, the beneficiary of proceeds from her dinner. • Dennis and Hene Kelly were honored in San Francisco. • Ted Kirsch, President of American Federation of Teachers Pennsylvania, is a member of Bnai Zion’s Mid-Atlantic region. He too visited Ahava. • Mark Richard, a partner at the law firm of Phillips, Richard and Rind, P.A. of Florida was honored at a dinner in Miami. He visited our projects as well.
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texas
region
A Houston Luminary is Honored
Proceeds from the dinner will benefit the Bnai Zion Medical Center
B
nai Zion had the privilege of paying tribute to David Ronn at a dinner in Houston on January 9. Despite tremendous rainstorms that caused the closing of at least five schools and the flooding of many city streets, over 130 people made their way to the dinner. Guests included many of David’s colleagues, friends and family, some of whom traveled from as far away as Richmond, Virginia to celebrate David’s accomplishments in the business and Jewish communities. Members of David’s family that were in attendance included his wife Ann and their daughters Gabrielle, Netanya and Ahava. David’s in-laws Golda and Gil Baker were also in attendance. David is a member of the International Board of Governors of Technion. His activities with Technion made the evening more memorable since the Bnai Zion Medical Center is a teaching hospital for the Rappaport Faculty of Medicine at Technion. Proceeds from the dinner will be used to fund the construction of the new protected underground emergency department at the Medical Center.
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texas
region
A Prominent Church welcomes Bnai Zion Representatives More than 600 congregants attend services In January, representatives of Bnai Zion visited the New Beginning Church in Irving, Texas to meet the congregation, which has undertaken the Bnai Zion Medical Center as the Israel project the church is supporting. Pastors Larry and Tiz Huch had previously donated $20,000 to Bnai Zion for the benefit of the Bnai Zion Medical Center and invited Bnai Zion colleagues for a visit to their church. Dr. Amnon Rofé, CEO of the Bnai Zion Medical Center, was joined by Jack Grunspan, Bnai Zion executive
ADVERTISE in the VOICE Promote your business and reach 14,000 subscribers nationwide Discount rates available for first-timers For rates and information please contact Lisa Paule at 212 725 1211, ext. 6234 or email lisapaule@bnaizion.org
16 VO I CE march 2012
vice-president, and Marc Nadelman, director of special events for the organization, to accept the generosity of the church community. Pastor Scott Sigman, in front of a full house of more than 600 people, invited the three representatives to the stage and presented them with a check for $10,000 as a second gift for the hospital. Dr. Rofé, who was overcome with emotion, thanked the congregation, “This is a true blessing for the hospital having new friends in the Christian community - and I look forward to welcoming you to see first-hand what your generosity helps to accomplish.” The New Beginnings Church has a mission of more than fifty people going to Israel in May, and a visit by the group to the Bnai Zion Medical Center in Haifa is scheduled.
The Christian Community in Dallas Hosts Medical Center CEO Dr. Amnon Rofe briefs guests at a reception
Dean and Carrye Crowder graciously opened their home for a reception to host Dr. Amnon Rofe, CEO of the Bnai Zion Medical Center. About thirty people attended, many of whom are members of the Covenant Church. Dr. Rofe spoke about the work of the Medical Center and presented a video that emphasizes the importance of emergency preparedness and the need to build a new protected underground emergency department at the Medical Center. People were very moved by the presentation and saw it as a call to action. Bnai Zion is fortunate to have a strong bond with many Christians, especially in the southwest. As has been said, “the time is now for the Jewish and Christian communities to stand side by side.” We thank the Crowders and their guests for being at our side – and for their enthusiastic welcome of Dr. Rofe.
Our Annual Brunch to benefit
Ahava Village for Children & Youth Sunday May 6, 2012 at 10am The Westin Galleria, Dallas
recipients of the
Price $54 per person, 30 and under $44 per person
Community New Leaderhip Award
Brett Diamond • Ben Fine • Brett Lazarus • Jodi Barris Sanchez Shane Stein • Robin Stone • Dawn Strauss
Br ett D iamond
Shane Stein
Brett believes that career success provides only fleeting satisfaction without a deep commitment to community. Consequently for the last decade, he has been devoted to philanthropic efforts aligned with his Jewish heritage.
Shane Stein, a graduate of the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, is a financial advisor in the global wealth and investment management group of Merrill Lynch and is active in numerous Jewish organizations. Shane and his wife Tracey have two daughters.
Ben Fine
Robin f ink el stein Stone
Benjamin Fine was born and raised in Dallas, and helped co-found Students Against Terrorism. Involved in the CJE and YAD at the Jewish Federation of Greater Dallas, he works at Ecova and is married to Lauren.
Br ett Laza rus
Brett Lazarus is a vice president with Aon Risk Services. Active in the Dallas Challenge, Brett volunteers for Young Professionals in Finance, Congregation Anshai Torah and the Stonebriar Country Club as well. He and his wife Sara have a little girl.
Jodi ba rris S anchez
A 5th generation Texan, Robin served on the Younger Set Council of the Federation of Greater Dallas and currently serves as council chair. Active as well at Akiba Academy and the Greenhill School, Robin is married to Evan and they have twin daughters and a son.
Dawn spechler Str auss
Dawn is chairing the 2012 Women Helping Women mitzvah project of the Jewish Federation of Greater Dallas, and she raised over $20,000 for the Heart Center at Children’s Medical Center. Married to Brad, they have four children.
With family roots in South Africa, Jodi moved to Dallas in 2009 and opened an event-video production company, Entertainment Runway. She and her husband Joshua Sanchez are members of Chabad of North Dallas, and are known for festive Shabbat dinners in their home.
2012 Brunch Honorary Committee Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence & Sharlene Barris Mr. & Mrs. Richard & Diane Diamond
Mr. & Mrs. Jeff & Pam Fine Mr. & Mrs. William & Jeri Finkelstein Mr. & Mrs. Robert & Roberta Lazarus
Dr. & Mrs. Stuart & Cindy Spechler Mr. & Mrs. Sheldon & Barbara Stein
For reservations & information about corporate sponsorship please contact Avrille Harris-Cohen, Texas regional director, at 972 918 9200 or email avrille.harris-cohen@bnaizion.orgmarch 2012 VOI CE 17
new york
region
Bnai Zion Commended for Commitment to People of Israel
The Museum of the Jewish People hosts their annual dinner in New York Bnai Zion's longtime support of Bet Hatfutsot — The Museum of the Jewish People in Tel Aviv — was recognized this past December at the organization's annual dinner, where Bnai Zion was presented with an award for its outstanding and enduring commitment to the people of Israel. Almost thirty-five years ago, when the museum was first under construction, Bnai Zion made a major contribution for the construction of the auditorium at the museum. Three years ago Bnai Zion donated an additional $100,000 to upgrade the auditorium to be in compliance with new laws in Israel pertaining to access for people with physical challenges. Bnai Zion is proud to continue its relationship with Bet Hatfutsot, a wonderful institution with fascinating content, that has redefined itself for the 21st century.
AUDITORIUM available at the Bnai Zion House in New York Seats 150-200 Dietary Laws Observed
For more information call 212 725 1211, ext. 6234
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A Perfect Space Private Parties, Events & Meetings
southeast
region
Southeast Director Represents Bnai Zion at Major Conference Rabbi Rikki Arad discusses the importance of supporting Israel
Culminating the three-day Womanity conference in Miami, Bnai Zion executive director of the southeast region, Rikki Arad, held the audience spellbound as she addressed the packed house. Metro Life Church, led by Pastors Steve and Mary Alessi, held the weekend get-together in early February. Limited to women only (with a few exceptions), the symposium was geared to the empowerment of women as equals in all aspects of society. On the last day of the conference, along with Pastor Mary Alessi, Rikki was the featured guest speaker, addressing the audience of more than seven hundred women. Rikki, an ordained rabbi, spoke exquisitely and substantively about both the old and new testaments.
Rikki Arad and Pastor Steve Alessi discussed Bnai Zion achievements at its projects in Israel with attendees of the conference. The presentation was such a success that Rikki Arad, in her capacity as a rabbi, was invited to be the featured presenter at Metro Life Church for one Sunday every month. During these upcoming Sundays, Rikki will teach the critical responsibility and importance of Americans to support Israel. The Womanity conference was a huge success, and it brought the Christian community a new understanding of its Jewish roots.
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It’s Easier to Give!
Contributing to Bnai Zion on a periodic basis is just a click away. On bnaizion.org there are is now an option to have a contribution made automatically monthly or quarterly – and you can choose the day of the month for this to take place. All you have to do is click on the Contribute button on our homepage to set this up. Now you can have peace of mind knowing your regular contribution will help further our wonderful work in Israel. Remember, a minimum of 90% of all designated gifts to Bnai Zion will be transferred to our projects in Israel.
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mid-atlantic
region
Bnai Zion Gets Noticed at Klezmer Serenade
Many are drawn to the Philadelphia Museum of Art for a cultural evening In December, Bnai Zion was proud to sponsor the Art After 5 - Festival of Lights at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. A diverse crowd learned about Bnai Zion from issues of the VOICE and other material that was distributed throughout the evening. Attendees enjoyed the magical exuberance of jazz and Latin-infused klezmer music from Eastern Europe, Yiddish songs, and Israeli dances. The Philadelphia Museum of Art was the perfect forum for a festive celebration with dancing and a multicultural music selection. Through Israeli dancing and songs, this event allowed participants to connect with Israeli culture, and to explore global Jewish culture and the arts. A popular venue, the museum always draws a crowd, and this event lived up to its reputation. Attendees not only enjoyed themselves, but were able to learn more about the important work of Bnai Zion, and be inspired to help.
A Sparkling Hanukah Party Aids in Outreach Philadelphia resident Devorah Selber hosts a gathering in her lovely home
Devorah Selber, a member of the Bnai Zion Mid-Atlantic board of directors, hosted a Hanukah party at her home to educate guests about Bnai Zion projects in Israel. An outstanding hostess with a generous heart, Devorah opened her home to the local Bnai Zion community, and all who attended were in great spirits as they indulged in a bountiful meal. Guests learned that Devorah moved to Haifa at age 13; her father was treated at the Bnai Zion Medical Center; and her nephew was born a few months ago at the hospital, and was named after her dad Meir. At the party, attendees were building connections, developing relationships, and learning about others, with the goal of discussing the regional development of the organization and targeting more people to get involved. The unforgettable evening left the group with renewed enthusiasm for Bnai Zion and geared up for the next fundraising event. A number of events are planned for spring and summer. In June, the Bnai Zion national Liberty Mission to Israel will take place, led by Judy and David Gitlin, chairman of the Mid-Atlantic region.
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our projects in israel
A Focus on the Bnai Zion Medical Center
Making Ideas Come Alive
Special Software Allows Precision Consumption of Antibiotics Special software to control the consumption of antibiotics by patients and to prevent their unnecessary use was installed by the hospital. Developed by the computer support division in collaboration with the infectious disease unit and the pharmacy to provide a method to follow the exact quantities and types of antibiotics dispensed to patients, this software is saving the hospital nearly $200,000 per year. When medical staff want to treat a patient with antibiotics, they enter the data using this software and the request is automatically forwarded to the infectious disease unit, where it is examined and the patient's compatibility with the antibiotic is assessed. From these results, the kind of medication to administer and the dose are ascertained. Prof. Potesman, head of the infectious disease unit, emphasized that the software is very important, particularly in cases where a patient is being treated by several doctors. This software allows treatment to be synchronized, which benefits the patient.
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The Hospital Wins First Prize for Best Research The research of Prof. Ofer Native, head of urology at the Medical Center, and Prof. Sarel Halachmi, a senior urologist there, won first place at the annual convention of the Israeli Urology Association held in Eilat. The subject of the research was maintaining kidney function in patients with kidney cancer who have undergone a surgical maintenance procedure. Eighty works of research were presented at the conference, eight of which were conducted by staff of the Medical Center.
Helping Memory Loss A New Clinic Offers Solutions A new memory clinic that opened in the neurology department provides early detection and treatment for memory loss, and guidance for patients and families who are dealing with memory disorders. Concentration and thinking improve and maintain memory. Most people with memory disorders and dementia are elderly, suffering mainly from Alzheimer’s and other elderly diseases. However, there are cases of memory loss caused by alcohol and drug use, lack of vitamins, a lack of oxygen to the brain, tumors or head injuries. People with all these types of cases can now be treated in this clinic. Patients undergo a cognitive evaluation, including medical, functional, and social evaluations, at the end of which they receive recommendations for further treatment. Dr. Boaz Weller, head of neurology at the hospital, says their goal is early detection, treating mental deterioration and providing treatment and therapy to patients and families who are dealing with these situations.
Research on Children with Headaches Yields New Information New research in the hospital reveals that about 30% of children and adolescents often complain of headaches, and headaches don’t necessarily imply serious disease. This new research also found a correlation between headaches and ADHD and learning difficulties in children, who frequently cope with disrupted routines and a decreased quality of life because of their headaches. Research conducted at the hospital clinic for adolescents in collaboration with Rambam Hospital revealed that when academic achievement by children is low, the probability of developing headaches is greater. Four categories of headaches in children are: • Headaches that last a week with fever, caused by an infectious disease; • Migraines that appear even in young children, often connected to a family history of strong headaches with nausea and vomiting; • Chronic headaches that last several months and get stronger with time; • A frequent, usually light headache that interferes with regular activities, with no side effects and no change in severity, usually the result of emotional distress, anxiety, or tension. Dr. Jacob Ganizi, head of the pediatric neurology clinic, explained that in order to determine frequency of headaches and their cause, they tested two groups of children, and they found a clear correlation between learning disabilities and frequent headaches. Pressure is a common reason for headaches among children and adolescents and appears in over 50% of school-aged children. Different from a migraine, this type of headache involves tension in the muscle and appears as a response to emotional stress. Research showed clearly that children diagnosed with learning disabilities often complained of this type of headache, and children with ADHD complained of migraine headaches. The reasons for headaches are complex, and treatment of them involves medication, alternative and family therapy.
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our projects in israel
Training Nurses through Emotional Intelligence Hospital management encourages nursing staff to excellence in care and invests greatly in improving treatment and care to patients and their families. In the past, the nursing staff mainly used professional knowledge and intelligence, but now emphasis is given to emotional intelligence as well. With the many developments in western medicine, along with understanding the importance of alternative medicine, the hospital management realized there is need to invest not only in educational training, but to develop emotional intelligence that reflects everyday life and is necessary for effective functioning in many areas of life, including the medical arena. Recent research has shown that emotional intelligence is responsible for at least two-thirds of success, and in management positions it contributes to even 85% of success. In nursing, where stress and fatigue are part of daily work, much importance is placed on inter-personal relations with patients. For example, it was found in research that nurses with high emotional intelligence cooperate effectively in teams, in solving conflicts, and in presenting a high level of empathy in understanding the needs and emotions of others. It was also shown that nurses with high emotional intelligence experience less stress, less exhaustion and less anxiety, and enjoy sound physical health and work satisfaction. Managing nurses who demonstrate a high level of emotional intelligence enhance their ability to lead, challenge their staff and allow them to reach their full potential and professional self-fulfillment. All managing nurses will participate in workshops where they will learn about emotional intelligence and its implications for their own success as well the success of the hospital, and where they will develop skills that are necessary for improved relations with patients and their families. Nurses will also learn how emotional intelligence affects the ability to work well under pressure, adjust to change and other aspects of the nursing portfolio. Ilana Peterfreund, head nurse at the Medical Center, believes that in today's changing world one is obliged to consistently learn and develop, and she is confident that by educating the hospital staff, much added value will be realized by the patients.
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A Clinic for Breastfeeding Gets Underway A new clinic for education about breastfeeding and nursing provides professional and personal counseling on the many issues that mothers face, including congestion in the baby, treating the newborn’s navel etc. Operating on a weekly basis, the clinic will offer two two-hour sessions. According to Prof. Bader, head of the neonatology department, a need for a clinic of this type was greatly sensed among the many women who chose to give birth at the hospital; they expressed they needed this guidance and particularly, the support the clinic offers. Because of this clinic, the hospital can now provide additional care to the new family unit that will strengthen the women and enhance their self confidence to continue on the long road of parenting.
Then & Now at our projects in Israel
Tremendous progress has been made at the five projects Bnai Zion supports. Each has developed to reach a larger population in need that relies upon its staff, services, treatment, educational outlets and cultural programs. Discover the role Bnai Zion has played in this evolution at the Bnai Zion Medical Center and at Ahava Village for Children & Youth, as we set the stage for an expanded future.
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our projects in israel
At the B nai Z ion Medical Cente r
Making Strides in Treatment
The Pediatric Surgery Department Enhances Care & Healing The Background The pediatric surgery department in the Bnai Zion Medical Center is the leader in northern Israel for this specialty. Since its establishment in 1991 the number of children treated has increased dramatically. The department serves as a referral center for children from Hadera in the south and up to Tsfat in the north to come to the facility for treatment and surgery. With 17 beds, three specialist doctors, three interns, 12 nurses, a teacher, a social worker, and an assistant, 3,000 surgical procedures are performed in this unit every year, including procedures in the areas of pediatrics, pediatric orthopedics, plastic surgery, ophthalmology, otolaryngology and urology. Every day at least one operating room customized for children is used. One guiding principle of the Medical Center is that children mean everything, and this concept leads staff every step of the way in all facets of running this busy department.
The Challenge High quality medical treatment that is the best is not enough. The department was a crowded and very small space. Three or four children were sharing a room with a lack of privacy, and there was no room for parents to spend days and nights with their children, which made it harder for patients, as well as for the medical and nursing staff. The department simply was not equipped to meet the increasing needs of the children and their families.
Cramped quarters in the previous unit
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The Vision The scope of the department has increased significantly. As a leading pediatric surgery center, its objective is to provide the best medical treatment possible in an advanced facility adapted to the 21st century, modified to the needs of children. The patients needed improved conditions including private rooms with showerequipped bathrooms, beds for parents, a classroom, a multimedia room, and other essential spaces. Now Thanks to Bnai Zion, the hospital received the funds to renovate and refurbish the pediatric surgery department. It is now a well-equipped, comfortable and spacious facility, ideal for treating children with their parents close by, which helps considerably in their progress. The new multimedia room is almost ready, now being connected to the pediatric department that is currently under construction. The pediatric surgery department was completed eighteen months ago and was named in honor of Mel Parness, vice president emeritus of Bnai Zion, who has spent more than four decades working for the Jewish people in the U.S. and in Israel through Bnai Zion. The department was dedicated in a meaningful ceremony in June 2008 when Bnai Zion celebrated the 100th anniversary of the organization with the mayor of Haifa and hospital employees and friends in attendance. Only one example of many, the hospital is grateful to Bnai Zion for all it has done throughout the years to help build, renovate, upgrade, and advance the hospital in so many significant areas.
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our projects in israel at Ahava V il l age f or chil dren & youth
Saving a Life Takes on New Meaning
Don’t miss our latest video about Ahava:
Help, Healing & Hope see it now on bnaizion.org
Children at risk learn how to cope and progress in a safe and inspiring environment 1922. The British Mandate starts in Palestine; Ireland becomes independent; Stalin is nominated as the ruler of the USSR; the tomb of Tutankhamen is discovered; Mussolini is elected as the youngest prime minister of Italy. Ahava residential care starts in Berlin, Germany, as a welcoming kitchen for orphaned Jewish children. 90 years have passed since then, and during these nine decades, Ahava - like the rest of the world - has gone through dramatic changes. From its residence in Berlin to Kiryat Bialik (for the past 80 years), a wide variety of populations have grown up in Ahava, telling the story of the State of Israel - the story of the aliyot (the absorption), and of welfare and of education - and of the development of Ahava from a home to a non-profit organization that offers myriad programs and activities. 2012. The buildings have been changed, technology has been implemented, key figures are different - but the basis of our activity remains the same: Ahava is an alternative loving and supportive home for its residents. Ahava provides extensive solutions for children and youth at risk, and these solutions widen and develop from year to year, adapting to the socio-economic changes in the country. In Ahava, “now and then” represents thousands of stories of people for whom Ahava was their home – whether for one night or twelve years. People came from all sorts of families and places, and telling their story of childhood tells the story of the nation. For its first 45 years in Israel, Ahava was home to many immigrants, some of whom were orphans and some of whom were sent from home to kibbutzim and to the village of Ahava to get a better education. Shoshana (Cohen) Cabiri, age 76, was born in Yemen. She arrived at Ahava in 1949 and was in the Lehavot group, which was the first group of young adolescents who attended school at Ahava, and didn’t go to outside schools. They
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emigrated in summer 1944; her mother and the ten children went directly to beit olim in Tel-Aviv (a welcome facility for new immigrants). It was difficult for her mother to support them all; seven of the children were placed in various institutions around the country, and two stayed at home. Huney Ulman was the household coordinator, Josef Yeshuvi, the institute director. In those days, the kids had many tasks: to help the smaller kids in the kitchen, with laundry and in agriculture - both in the garden and with the chickens. (Agriculture has always been considered a kind of recreation at Ahava, with the opportunity to observe and appreciate the growth of foliage across the campus.) Shoshana said the attitude of the instructors and teachers was excellent and nurturing, “like a family.” She left Ahava at age 17 to attend the Beit-Hakerem teachers’ training seminary in Jerusalem, where she was accepted through the help of Avraham Yinon, who managed education at Ahava. She graduated from the teachers’ seminary in 1957 and joined the army as a soldier-teacher. At age 21 she was sent to teach Hebrew to new immigrant children in an absorption center. Amiram Atias is a very talented and successful actor known for his pantomimes in Israel. Every few years he comes back to perform in front of Ahava children. Born in Haifa, he came to Ahava at age 6 after his father got sick with tuberculosis and could no longer take care of him and his siblings. Amiram’s parents wanted their kids to study in a kibbutz; they came to Ahava and spent eight years there, until the 8th grade. Amiram remembers Huney Ulman, the swimming pool (now the football field), and the outstanding living conditions. His love of performing began at Ahava, when all the kids took part in filming the movie Exodus, and had the unforgettable experience of interacting with the cast. Amiram remembers playing soccer with Paul Newman. He then got a bigger role, playing the son of John Derek. In the summer, Ahava did
student exchanges with a boarding school in Jerusalem, to give both groups of children new adventures. Amiran credits his childhood in Ahava with the dynamic and successful way his life unfolded. He believes that without Ahava, his life would have looked very different. Ahava gave him a structure with love and care, culture and education; it gave him the space to be a child and the support to develop and grow up. During his visit at Ahava last summer, Amiram met a graduate from last year, Daniel. Amiram is a resident of Rehovot, where in August Daniel started volunteer service for a year, after which he will serve in the army. Daniel came to Ahava eight years ago, after making aliya with his mother and seven siblings from Argentina, two of whom still live at Ahava. Daniel represents an Ahava success story: he graduated high school with good grades, and is a responsible individual who will do well, having benefited from everything he could at Ahava: from the nurturing staff who helped enhance his self esteem, to the wellrounded education, including the opportunity to learn music and excel in other areas as well. In the last three decades Ahava has taken care of children coming from the edge of society, where poverty, neglect, violence at home, sexual and emotional abuse, crime and
other issues are prevalent. Children arrive at Ahava with significant emotional challenges. They poignantly struggle between the values Ahava imparts and the norms of their homes. Each child and his or her story are unique and different. For one, joining the army and serving the entire three-year term is a big success; for another, building a family based on respect and absent of violence is a tremendous accomplishment. Thirty years ago Ahava took care of children only until age 15. Subsequently that was changed to age 18, representing the need to provide help and solutions to individuals during their entire adolescence. Project 18+, a current program, evolved from that, and offers a graduate serving in the military without his or her own family, a warm and loving home to come back to for weekends or on leave. Project 18+ provides apartments and staff to help these service members through their military challenges and encourage them in their next life steps. A newly envisioned project recognizes that a lot of these young graduates, after having completed their military service, need support in their first stages of building their own family and becoming parents. A program is being developed to offer guidance and education to this group as well, and the coming year will be dedicated to ninety years of achievement at Ahava.
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national
Our Voice Magazine Then & Now Adapting to Changing Times
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Bnai Zion has been in existence for over a century, and during its evolution the Voice has progressed in format, style, content and quality. What began as an organization newsletter that was primarily text has developed into a colorful, lively magazine designed to inform supporters and newcomers about organization activities and objectives. This retrospective of previous issues illustrates Voice history and the value in representing our work in a bright and appealing way.
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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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