B'yachad · 42 East 69Th Street New York, NY 10021-5093 Non-Profit Org

Planting a “coral nursery” in the Red Sea to restore a degraded reef

B'Yachad · 42 East 69th Street New York, NY 10021-5093 Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage E-mail us at [email protected] PAID PPCO Jewish National Fund 3 www.jnf.org t n Blueprint Blueprint e e side e r ssag A Me ley nley M. Ches Sta r P m ou — the secret if you o r f As a non-governmental organization with roots Take the Negev for example. Ben Gurion’s Our power also lies in our agility. In Sderot, we As for the water crisis that looms over Israel, we In this economic climate, many of you must be The power will — of a non-profit is not that it holds the answers to a crisis or a problem in its own hands, but that in its nimblest incarnation it brings those issues to the table answers are found. where the more than a century deep, JNF has proven itself a leader in bringing people together and getting the job done. We do not act unilaterally; we are strong and creative, we understand the value of partnership, and we have a proven track record. dream was languishing until we took the tive. initia- Only a few short years into JNF’s Negev, and Be’er Sheva is already experiencingrenaissance, hundreds of a families have moved to new communities for quality of life, businesses are sprouting up, and existing communities are feel- ing a renewed sense of pride. Of course we are not doing it alone. One of the most exciting aspects of contrib- who others with it sharing is achievement utethetosuccess. AlehNegev, The Arava Institute, Ben Gurion University, The OR Movement,- Kib the municipalities, Negev Yahel, and Lotan butzim Be’er Sheva River Park Authority, and the Israeli government are all working with us dreamto a reality.make That’s collaborationthe and that’s the power of JNF. saw a need and we swooped in. We could not stand by while we heard stories of the trauma and long- lasting effects the years of terror have inflicted on this border town. So in record time we ing a secure are indoor recreation center. In a few short creat- months, the children of Sderot will have something to smile about. That’s being nimble and that’s the power of JNF. are proud that our work to date has precluded a ca- tastrophe. But that is not enough. I 12), page (see am Fund Water thrilled Parsons JNF the to announce a most creative and visionary way to address the future. That’s leadership and that’s the power of JNF. wondering what kinds of investments you should make today. By investing in JNF, you not only help build the land of Israel, your impact is felt for generations to come. That’s connecting and that’s the power of JNF. Photo credit: Michael Huri (continued on page 21) Efi Stenzler, world chairman of JNF-KKL told the Cali- the told JNF-KKL of chairman world Stenzler, Efi Pastor Dan Hicks, executive pastor of the 12,000 mem- an- water of meters cubic billion 2 about consumes Israel reser- new the Valley, Jezreel picturesque the in Located and poor rainfalls in recent winters, Israel’s water authori- water Israel’s winters, recent in rainfalls poor and ties are increasingly utilizing methods, such innovative as desalination and technological recycling wastewater, to meet the country’s water shortfalls. The reservoirs are a vital part of the recycling process for storing the treated for agriculture. and purified wastewater before it is used fornian visitors that the new reservoir was vital for Israeli farmers. “Many of Israel’s fields are being left fallow,” explained Stenzler, “because the farmers cannot afford the cost of water. This reservoir means that the kibbutz can continue to work the land.” ber Church on the Way, said that Dr. Bauer saw water as the ultimate symbol of God’s purity. “Scott knew what he Israel. of State the for stood he “and recalled, he for,” stood and God of People the for heart his in love much so had He which project, this completing in vision his fulfilling are we will contribute to the peace and prosperity of Israel.” is – meters cubic billion 1.1 – half than more which of nually Israel’s by used water the of 75% Some agriculture. by needed sewage — wastewater recycled from derived now is farmers — whichand is industrial purifiedeffluent potableto stan- dards but only used to water fields.Use of recycled water frees up natural water sources for domestic consumption. voir will contain the purified water er iv Gr

mon Si The Dovrat–Scott Bauer Memorial Reservoir in the The donation of the reservoir was the initiative of Dr. Eleven members of Dr. Bauer’s family attended the “Scott always loved Israel so deeply,” explained Rev. The Dovrat facility is one of more than 200 such reser- y Executive Pastor Dan Hicks (left) and JNF-KKL Rabbi Yerahmiel near the reservoir. Barylka celebrate together after conducting a prayer Spirits and Lift Israel’s California Christians Level by Dedicating JNF Reservoir Water B With water levels at their lowest ebb in the country’s history, country’s the in ebb lowest their at levels water With com- Christian Angeles Los a from delegation 80-strong an munity has dedicated a new reservoir in Northern Israel LeIsrael. Kayemeth Fund-Keren National Jewish by built Jezreel Valley near Nazareth will hold up to 450,000 cubic meters of purified wastewater to irrigate the fields of Kibbutz Dovrat. The Church on the Way inLos Angeles, Van Nuys, California donated the $1.25 million facility through Israel Christian Nexus. Scott Bauer, the late pastor of the Church Tragically, on just two the weeks Way. after announcing his community’s commitment to fund the project in 2003, the then 49-year-old pastor collapsed and died from a brain aneu- rysm while delivering a sermon from his pulpit. dedication ceremony in Israel including his wife Rebec- ca, three children and their spouses, his parents Dolores and Bill, and two newborn granddaughters — Hannah (6 months) and Lillian (4 months). Rebecca Bauer. “He believed in Israel. He prayed for Is- rael and he acted for Israel. That there is something in his memory here is especially significant.” water Israel’s of 16% about contain which JNF, by built voirs reserves. With a growing population of nearly 7.4 million

Regards, Regards, Staff Editorial B’Yachad

.org. 26 jnf www. began in 1901 collecting coins in blue boxes to purchase land and (JNF) or visit 888-JNF-0099 Israel is currently suffering from the worst drought in 80toinside Lookyears. learn how drought the worst from suffering is currently Israel JNF leads the way in developing and funding creative water recycling technologies to the of deterioration the – kind crisis a of a different water address to JNF has also helped be to Send hope shy! say? you something enjoy your this feedback issue. Don’t Have We A United Nations NGO, JNF sponsors international conferences on desertification, shares af- return the Jewish people to their homeland. In over 107 years, JNF has evolved into a global environmental leader and become the central address for partnering with constructed areas; the recreational and parks 1,000 over built trees; million 240 planted has JNF Israel. land and people of security roads; educated students around the world about Israel; created new communities so that Jews from around the world would have a place to call home; discovered new means of growing plants under arid conditions, bringing green to the desert; and built over 200 reservoirs and water recycling centers, increasing Israel’s water supply by 10%. Today, JNF is supporting Israel’s newest frontier. generation of pioneers by bringing life to the Negev Desert, Israel’s last forestation techniques, and funds research on arid land management. JNF is a registered 501(c)(3) organization and continuously earns top from ratings charity overseers. For more information on JNF, call onal Jewish Fund Nati Dear Reader, Dear As the rise and fall of oil prices to continues make headlines, our attention here at JNF is water. resource: natural a different on focused to committed have we why and Israelis, million 1.5 to water provide help reservoirs 200 JNF’s years. five next the over more 40 building make every drop count, including reservoirs that supply recycled water for irrigation, constructed agricultural wetlands that purify wastewater and naturally, a water treatment system that will fill Be’er Sheva’s these dryof evenmore will make that Fund, riverbedWater Parsons JNF the initiative, newa withintroduces flowing water year-round. Page 12 possible. solutions unique coral reefs in the Red Sea. to Turn page a 16 method to read reef about gardening,” “coral world. the around shared is being that Israel in developed [email protected]. to

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Israel Beyond the Guide Book tourist museum the destination: at an off-the-beaten-path A look at newAmmunition City-Line Hill, with its brand Amphitheatre JNF National Conference annual gathering the Sharansky in Phoenix, headlines Natan AZ W reef restoration in coral way the leads Israel It A River Will Run Through thanksrenaissance, a is undergoing Sheva Negev capital The of Be’er springing center city’s in the life to River Park a 1,700-acre to Q&A: Noah Kinarti experts water leading An interview with of one Israel’s The JNF Parsons W shortage water Israel’s solutions to in innovative Investing City of Courage Thirteen-year-oldJessi to Sderot Glueck writesvisit family’s about her

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Inside this Issue Project Spotlight Water by the Numb3rs Campaign Update Wall of Honor at Ammunition Hill My Favorite Photo Charles s. fax, vp, Campaign Army during World War II. The youngest, Ely, was killed at 18 when his plane was shot down over Poland. The oth- “How are we doing?” I hear er two, Harry and Morrie, survived. Her family bought this question frequently from

meters plaques for each of them. Laura’s son Joel Leibowitz and J e wi s h Nati on al F un d From Israel 1.25 concerned donors as I travel below the lower Red Line is where Lake Kinneret’s water level stood at the his wife also bought a plaque for their son Marc, who as a the country speaking and so- end of October 2008. The line serves as a warning that if levels drop even U.S. citizen didn’t have to volunteer for military service in liciting on behalf of JNF. I am farther (towards the Black Line) the quality of water and the ability to keep the IDF, but did. Marc served in the Israeli Paratroopers pleased to report that we fin- pumping will be compromised. The Kinneret, Israel’s largest freshwater lake, with the 101st Airborne Battalion as a squad commander ished the 2007–2008 campaign would have to rise by 5.45 meters to fill up completely. in Lebanon and the West Bank from 1992 to 1994. year 2 million dollars ahead of Sheldon Berman bought two plaques — one for his the previous year, raising almost $60 million. father and one for his son. Ted Berman, a”h, fulfilled his My major emphasis, given the harsh economic duties to his country during WWII as a private in the U.S. realities that the country will confront for some Army stationed in the Philippines from 1944–46. During Marc Leibowitz, chairman of the Ammunition Hill project, poses in front of time to come, is to try to develop new modes of 1920's that time he served in many capacities, even as assistant to the last time Israel’s water shortage was this severe. the plaque commemorating his military service on the Wall of Honor. persuasion for the most generous donations that the chaplain for High Holiday services. people realistically can afford. As bad as the stresses In late October, with more than 50 President’s Council Mis- Two generations later, his grandson Elie, a Baltimore 5 are on our economy and pocketbooks, the stresses sion participants on hand along with their family members resident, answered the call of duty and volunteered for the www.jnf.org are even greater on the people in Israel, where the who live in Israel, the Wall of Honor at Ammunition Hill in IDF from 2005–2007. Leader of his class, he was stationed needs are more profound than ever. billion gallons Jerusalem was dedicated and several plaques were unveiled. in the Jordan Valley for most of his tour. 500 Having just returned from a JNF mission to Is- the approximate amount of water Israel consumes per year. Throughout history, Jews have fought in defense of The stories go on. rael, I am reminded anew that the most effective Its water resources yield far less. their countries, often far beyond their proportions to the Individual plaques at Ammunition Hill can be pur- means to that end is a visit to our Jewish homeland. general population. As a tribute to their heroism and cour- chased to commemorate the military service of loved ones There is no substitute for seeing the work that JNF age, JNF has erected a Wall of Honor at Ammunition Hill, who served or presently serve in any country. All money is doing above, on, and under the ground in Eretz site of the pivotal 1967 battle that made possible the reuni- raised will support the preservation and expansion of the Yisrael. There is no surrogate for a first-person nar- fication of Jerusalem. battlegrounds and museum at Ammunition Hill (see p.26). million people rative from the population whom we are helping. 3 The stories of the people who have been honored with The wall of plaques will unite all servicemen, no matter will be added to Israel’s population by the year 2020. The country will In Be’er Sheva, for example, we were able to exam- plaques are fascinating and timeless. their country of service, to their Jewish heritage. require another 80 billion gallons of drinking water per year to cope ine the recent progress in construction of the River Laura Salbin had three brothers who fought in the U.S. For information, visit www.jnf.org/ammunitionhill. with this population growth and the ever-rising standard of living. Walk and contiguous parks, and we spoke to residents who are already benefiting from the dramatic There wasn’t any such thing as the internet back then, and our Kfar Saba Yahel Park improvements that we have fostered. In Sderot, we campus didn’t have TV, so we found lots of ways to amuse ourselves toured the secure indoor recreational facility that Plans are well underway for a new recreational and edu- during our September 1974 “quinmester” at the Alexander Muss High we are building, and we spoke to Sderot’s civic lead- 200+ reservoirs and dams cational park at Kibbutz Yahel. An oasis in the heart of the School in Israel. This particular pastime was called HaHa. ership about the huge positive difference that this have been constructed by JNF throughout Israel to combat the water shortage. Southern Arava Desert, Kibbutz Yahel is a vibrant commu- will make in the lives of the populace. In Jerusa- —Janet Carabelli nity of nearly 200 residents founded upon the principles of lem, we participated in the dedication of the Wall environmental awareness and sustainability. Located about of Honor at Ammunition Hill, a monument to Jew- 37 miles north of Eilat, the kibbutz boasts impressive agri- ish military service at the site of the famous battle cultural achievements including the largest date plantation billion gallons that enabled the IDF to re-capture the Old City in 66 in the region, a high yielding pomelo orchard, and a suc- of recycled water and floodwater are added to Israel’s national water economy 1967. And at the Arava Institute at Kibbutz Ketura cessful dairy herd. by JNF reservoirs, meeting 40% of the country’s agricultural water needs. in the Negev, we met with Jordanian, Palestinian, JNF has partnered with Kibbutz Yahel to develop an Israeli and American graduate students studying You can be featured in the eco-tourism park aimed at boosting the existing tourist for their Master’s degrees in environmental studies, industry, attracting new residents, and providing oppor- developing professional skills and cross-cultural re- tunities for employment. It will be a tranquil, green retreat next issue of B'Yachad! lationships that will last a lifetime. acres just off the Arava Highway, a perfect stop for travelers driv- 112,000 Any one of these experiences, let alone all of of orchards and field crops are irrigated by recycled waste water from JNF ing to and from Eilat and the Sinai desert. them in combination, are guaranteed to stimulate Submit your favorite photo taken on a trip to Israel with a reservoirs, saving scarce freshwater for domestic consumption. The main attraction and anchor of the park will be Ya- a far greater personal and financial commitment hel Reservoir, filled with floodwater during the winter and short caption describing the photo and why you chose it. from a donor than an arms-length solicitation — surrounded by date palms and picnic tables. The park will Email Sarit at [email protected] with your submissions. far removed from the locus of our achievements also have walking paths, a lookout tower providing a view — would elicit from the same donor. Go to Israel, Good luck! of the Arava Valley, a ropes course, playground facilities, billion gallons and persuade others to go with you. 90 gardens, a farmer’s market, a restaurant and a coffee bar. of waste water in Israel do not get recycled. There is another virtue to that advice. A motion ride will simulate desert flash floods and edu- This is the challenge JNF is committed to address. (Continued on page 21) cational tours will showcase Yahel’s amazing agricultural Plans for the park at Kibbutz Yahel accomplishments in the harsh desert environment. JNF Across the country 7 www.jnf.org - 14 At the At Region's Wisconsin annual banquet, regional director - Sid JNF board member and Green Sunday co-chair Sally Seed was Front: Front: (L-R) Co-chair Selma Zeiger and outgoing co-president honored honored as the JNF of Volunteer the at Year Israel Bonds. (L-R) Shuman. Sally Seed, Nancy and Greenwald, Janice ney Rivkin (left)and Ruth co-president Resnick (right) presented two her for Safer Rena co-president outgoing to honor of citation a service. of years cess for “Let Us Play!” Us “Let for cess Rena Safer. Back: Rena (L-R) Safer. Regional director Sidney Rivkin, Midwest Zone president and guest speaker Hannan Lis, dinner co-chairs Robin Zaks and Linda Silberman, co-chair Richard Marcus, and Resnick. Ruth co-president land Park, KS joined together to raise money for the “Let Us Play!” Play!” Us the“Let for money raise to together joined KS Park, land Sderot. for campaign honoring Jeffrey Lipton of Nova Chemicals. (L-R) Dinner co-chair Chemicals. Dinner co-chair Nova (L-R) of Lipton Jeffrey honoring - Sobel,Shel Kirkell Norma chair board PA Western Hanna, Hoddy Holzer. Sy co-chair dinner and Lipton, Jeffrey ley Lipton, community activists. Front: (L-R) Honorees Rabbi - David and San (L-R) Honorees activists. Front: community dra Brusin, and Muriel and Nathan Back:Taffel. (L-R) Honorees Rhonda and Gary Schutkin, Cynthia Paul and and Mark Dr. Levy, Judy Levine, Aaron and Dr. Deborah Bernstein, and Felicia Miller. and James

Theolderreligious childrenschool inKehilathfromIsrael’s Over Theyoungerclass atKehilath Israel its celebrated fundraisingsuc- On September 9, the Western PA Region held its Tree of Life Dinner Dinner Life of Tree its held Region PA Western the 9, September On

Two hundred fiftyTwo attendedpeople the banquet, whichhonored 14 . . . . . . 10 12 15 11 16 14 13. 15 16 13

- - 8 10 12 Dinner committee members Elece and Les Elece Kovel. members and committee Dinner Award Life of Tree Ohio Northern annual the for out came minaries LeeGovernor Lt. Dinner honoring was Fisher (right). a It - family af Zone Peggy wife, his by award the with presented was as Fisher fair Governor speaker Keynote Jessica. and Jason children, his and Fisher multi-faceted his for Fisher Governor Lt. lauded (left) Stickland Ted commitments to families and children and his dedicated service. public Lee Fisher. Governor Lt. with (right) Spilman as the 2008-2009 Attorney of the Year. as (L-R) board the National - mem 2008-2009 of Attorney the Year. Louise president regional Southern Ohio Paul, Nina bers Eddie and Roselle, Al Gerhardstein, JNF national president Stanley Chesley, keynote speaker Micah Halpern, VP of Legal Society Jon Fabian. Ann Melissa director regional Ohio Southern Lieber and man, JNF past president Morry Wiener, Michele Wiener, and Tree of Life Life of Tree and Wiener, Michele Wiener, Morry president past JNF Over 300 supporters, friends, community leaders, and political - lu 2007 Tree of Life recipients Stacie Halpern (left) and Lauren nor Fisher with the Tree of Life award. Life of the Tree with Fisher nor The JNF/Judge Carl B. Rubin Legal Society honored Al Gerhardstein Gerhardstein Al honored Society Legal Rubin B. Carl JNF/Judge The Northern Ohio regional director Debbie Rothschild and Lt. Gover Lt. Rothschild and Debbie director Ohio regional Northern . . . . . 7 9 6 11 6 8 9 7 5

2 Morrow, Kari Malk, James Matanky, Rebecca Lewis, Wendy Berger-Shapiro Berger-Shapiro Wendy Lewis,Rebecca Matanky, James Malk, Kari Morrow, in Chicago. tournament poker Nights" the "Negev Ellen at Phillips and recipients of the prestigious Tree of Life Award, Cincinnati that at raised over $625,000 for a the Sderot Indoor - Recre dinner in Eileen and Back: Barrett. Southern (L-R) John Front: Center. ation Ohio regional president Karen Cohen, regional Nina members board director national and Melissa chairs event special Fabian, Ann and Eddie Annie and Ray Barrett, and Paul, dinner Patti co-chairs Solomon. Ron and Miller, Randy Barb Solomon, Schneider, turnout for its Lunch and Learn program on November 6. Hosted Learnand November on Lunch its program for turnout by Steven Elrod (right) and Rob Mintz (left)at the lawoffices of Holland & Knight, the event featured guest speaker Katz Yaakov Post. Jerusalem The for military correspondent (center), (L-R) Volunteer dealers and bankers Arielle Turover, Jennifer Loeb, Susan Susan Loeb, Jennifer Turover, Arielle bankers and dealers Volunteer (L-R) Close to 500 people celebrated with Eileen and John Barrett, 2008 Chicago’s Loop Chicago’s Professional Forum Speakers Series had a strong member member Jason Friedman, drew a crowd of over 200 raisedof Carmit. (L-R) funds First place the community for Negev people and winner Michael Schneider, Jason Friedman, second place winner Frankenthal. Stewart winner place third and Seth Wenig, Chicago’s Chicago’s “Negev Nights” poker tournament, chaired by board . . . . Midwest Zone Midwest 5 1 3 4 4 3 1 2 5 3 Land Hardball” Land and a Hardball” VIP party with IBL executives and - crisis in funds raisedalleviate Is to the much-needed severe water rael. Nick Hall, (L-R) Front: Adam Volunteers Cohen and Boston president Larry Cohen. Back: (L-R) Colonel (res.) Sharon Lowenthal. Martin - Davi and Shapiro Jay co-chairs and dovich of “Holy players. (L-R) Art president emeritus Shamsky, Ron Lubin, VP of Duquette. Dan and Patkin, Todd campaign and Lee Aronson at the “New England Celebrates Israel” event. Israel” Celebrates England the “New at Leeand Aronson their commitment and dedication with 60th plaques. with anniversary dedication and their commitment Patkin, and New England Jim Todd Consul General Tamir, Nadav at Apteker a VIP luncheon to discuss the election U.S. results and - entrepre focuseson which Fund, Philanthropic Boston–Negev the in the Negev. homes create to neurial philanthropy Over 100 dedicated volunteers gathered for Green Sunday which premiere film Boston the hosted LeagueBaseball Israel the and JNF (L-R) Elaine Elovitz, Women’s Alliance chair Judi Elovitz Greenberg, Greenberg, Elovitz Judi chair Alliance Women’s Elovitz, Elaine (L-R) JNF recognized longstanding New England board members for (L-R) Jim Rappaport, Ambassador Martin Indyk, VP of campaign

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Blueprint Blueprint y 3 Baum Baum and guest, Alana Shultz, Zvi on “JNF in Your Area” .org and click Jewish soldiers throughout the world and learned about JNF’s Wall Wall JNF’s about learned and world the throughout soldiers Jewish of Honor at Ammunition Hill in Jerusalem. (L-R) Florence C. - Si Bernice and Smilowitz. mon F. Robinson, and past presidents Terry Lazar and Mel Ruskin at the Long annual Island major Region’s donor thank you event at Colbeh Roslyn. Nancy Zaro and social action chair Roberta Roos at the GoNeutral the Roberta GoNeutral Roos at chair social action and Zaro Nancy community Boot a Camp, crash course to the educate Westchester activism. by Hosted about WJC the environmental and event JNF, drew synagogue leaders, social action committees, rabbis and - can students. and professionals young educators, tors, Eden, at NYC hotspot Over Tenjune. 300 young leaders gathered for an evening of swing music, a DJ and a silent auction and enjoyed sushi and dessert. Funds raised will support JNF’s Negev initiative. (L-R) Inbal Dabi. Naomi and Lantsberg, To commemorate Veterans Day, JNF supporters gathered to honor to honor gathered JNF supporters Day, Veterans commemorate To (L-R) Long Island board president Mark Engel, JNF CEO Russell (L-R) Westchester (L-R) Jewish Westchester Conference assistant executive director JNFuture JNFuture hosted its 2nd annual gala, Swingin’ in the Garden of

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Zone greater New York d un al F on h Nati s wi e jnf ing JNF events, visit www. For info on upcom J tr oun c the oss Acr (CRCG) (CRCG) held a breakfast event at the Beverly Hills - Peninsula Ho tel. UC Berkeley economist Robert Edelstein gave a presentation entitled “Our Economy on the Eve of (L-R) the CRCG Elections.” board member Jeff Schick withJoe CRCG Penner, board member tournament. the JNF golf of chair and the home of major donor Deena Singer. After a tasting of boutique After aof tasting boutique Deena Singer. donor major of the home Israeli wines, guests heard from featured speaker Galit Dr. Dayan, wife Is- of ofthe consul general, and photographs saw magnificent rael by Eric Lawton. (L-R) Richard Eva Shaffer, Beim,and Carole Shnier. and JNF CEO Russell F. Robinson at a reception for JNF major do- JNF major for a reception at Robinson F. JNF CEO Russell and Levin. Judy and Bud by friends hosted and nors On November 3, JNF’s Commercial RealOn 3, Estate November JNF’s and Capital Group On September 4, the Alliance Women’s hosted a wine tasting at (L-R) (L-R) Melinda Feldman, Marcia Weingarten, Robert Weingarten, 3. 2. 1. 3 2 1

los Angeles Zone

JNF Across the country 6 www.jnf.org JNF Across the Country 9 www.jnf.org 8 10 12 13 Itai Itai Freeman, project director Sheva for the River Be’er Park, met Arizona Arizona board members enjoyed the "Gelt Machers Campaign" victory party. Front: (L-R) Burton Simon Kruglick, Eisenberg, Steve Freidkin Sharyn and Barbara Allyn. Spillman, Back: (L-R) Bruce Goldberg. and Goodman,Scott Abrams, Dan man, man, and Nelson Lerner, all new campaign. members Region’s the Arizona of division leadership of the 10 CLUB, a Springs Springs advisory board member Allan Nyman, and Roni Flamer, center care day the of dedication the at Movement, OR the of CEO and Springs Palm of fundedFederation the Jewish by Bar, Givot at Desert Area. Spillman. Sharyn and Fagelman Leona Kleiner, Suzye (L-R) Tour. tive board member Miles Sterling and Esther Sterling. Dr. Adelman Adelman Dr. Sterling. Esther and Sterling Miles member board tive of the and importance threat the Iranian about to the spoke crowd campuses. college on Democracy for program the Caravan the breakfast. with with Darlene Casella, international projects chair for the Indian Rotarycritical to water Club, Wells needs, discuss particuIsrael’s - larly in the Negev Desert. Themeeting washeld at the Willen. & Emily Mickey Sun Dr. Desert of Palm home City

Keynote speaker Dr. Jonathan Adelman signed his bookexecu- Adelman for Jonathan speaker Dr. Keynote (L-R) Israeli Scouts Nirit representatives Hinkis and Orr Karny at (L-R) OfirNegev Fisher, directorof theOR Movement, JNF Palm Home Alliance Woman’s annual second the attended generations Three (L-R) Dr. Seymour Rife, 2008 of Tree Life honoree, Sharyn - Spill . . 8. 9. 7. 11 10 9 7 13. 12. 11 11

4 6 2 10 Vegas on Vegas November 16 at the Siena Golf Club. Chaired by board president Larry Monkarsh, the tournament raised money for the Sderot Indoor Recreation Center. (L-R) Larry Monkarsh, board member Jack Davis, David Rose, John Blackmon, and Las Vegas Berkovitz. Judy director community tournament. the golf at Arensen Andrew the perimeter of County Line Harvest, his 28-acre Participants farm 21. September on Dinner in Eco-Farm - Peta JNF’s at CA luma, seven-course a tasting, wine and beer kosher tour, farm the enjoyed - In Arava the from students two from heard and dinner vegetarian Studies. Environmental for stitute dof and his wife Judy were honored by JNF Orinda home at of a Sheldon Kahn brunch and at Sarah the Liron on October 19. (L-R) President Yudof, Nancy Sterling, and San Francisco board Sterling. Greg co-chair study UC the restoring to commitment his about speak Yudof dent abroad program in Israel, the importance where environment campus of a supporting and Israel, to chancellors taking all the UC Aki- General Consul Israeli (L-R) welcome. are opinions pro-Israel Yudof. Judy and va Tor Democracyfor Caravan on September 7 in JNF’s a for at breakfast event the Ron, Sarit and Orgen Debbie by Chaired County. Orange advocacy initiative. the Israel support $50,000 to raised over Over 40 golfers enjoyed the annual JNF golf tournament in Las (L-R) Micha Hamilton, Larry Monkarsh, Glenda Lippman, and Organic farmer David Retsky guided more than 100 people along Newly appointed University of California president Mark - Yu JNF board members were pleasedand donors major to - hear Presi Makor member Lynn addressed Wexler more than 200 attendees estern Zone estern 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 3 5 9 1

w 2 4 6 8 Bob Levine, Jerry Rosen, and Joan Oppenheimer at the Northeast Conference. Zone co-chairs John Wisniewski and Leonard H. Berkeley, and Northeast Northeast and Berkeley, H. Leonard and Wisniewski John co-chairs Dinner. Award Life of the NJ Tree at L. Leibowitz Joel director Zone Middleberg, Middleberg, and Michele Berson at the firstmeeting of the Bucks Alliance. Women’s County Shabbat out usher to sang whileMoshav candles Havdalah lit Nina the JCC in Cherry begin at and their concert NJ. Hill, NJ. in House fundraiser Southern Concert & Coffee Moshav JNF. behalf calls of on phone made Fischer, Jake and and Nancy Bell, 2008 Green Sunday co-chairs for County. Bucks and Philadelphia, South Jersey, in NY. the JNF House at Conference Campaign Leadership Zone Northeast ca Lipstein, Alexis Oriel, Hannah Wischnia, and Elana Waldstein. Waldstein. Elana and Wischnia, Hannah Alexis Oriel, ca Lipstein, Baum, Rachel Jablonski, Ben event. Frisch, Joel Philadelphia Katz, first Josh Adler, JNFuture’s Jon at Shatz Rosenberg, James and Finkelstein, Dayna (L-R) Ilona Vaysman, Geri Shatz, Estee Solar, Helene Fuchs, Sherri Fuchs, Helene Geri Estee Solar, Shatz, Vaysman, (L-R) Ilona Southern NJ board member Debbie Drachman and her daughter (L-R) Jeff Resnick, Haleh Rabizadeh, and Bob Benedon at the Caley volunteers Sunday Green veteran twins, his and Fischer Peter the (L-R) Robin at Oriel, Steven Wolfe, Barrie Gottlieb Solomon, David Mazer, Andrea and Holtz, Amy Keil, Wendy Sacks-Bliss, Judith (L-R) Conference. Zone the Northeast at Kaplan Eve and Needle Marcy (L-R) and North Tzour (L-R) Jersey Tali board members Ben Gutmann, (L-R) Philadelphia b’nai mitzvah Green Sunday participants Rebec- participants Sunday Green mitzvah b’nai Philadelphia (L-R) (Clockwise from top left) JNFuture executive boardmembers Lauren (L-R) Co-chair Anthony Sartor, Tree of Life honoree Anthony Coscia, Coscia, Anthony honoree Life of Tree Sartor, Anthony Co-chair (L-R)

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2 3 5 7 9 Canada, with Franklin Paulson, executive committee member and committee executive Canada, with Franklin Paulson, reception. you thank donor a major at SocietyDC Herzl chair, chair. Israel for reception. you thank tic Zone’s Rose. Jack member tee eral Benjamin Gantz, and Maryland regional president Jonathan Fishman. Chisum. Jim member Maryland board Executive Committee member Dr. Bernard at Kapiloff theof installation officers Kapiloff,event hosted Baltimore by in and Lynn the Rynds. Stein. Rita Alpert and Teresa ety chair Atlantic Zone chair and national vice president of zones & regions & regions zones of vice president national and chair Zone Atlantic Mid and Gur, Mota chair Hill Klein, Ammunition Andrew Margules. David member Makor and president Zone Atlantic they the plaques of photos with the men three presented Gur Hill. Ammunition at their fathers of in honor dedicated (L-R) Major (L-R) GeneralMajor Benjamin Gantz, IDF attaché to the and U.S. Campaign Women’s Gur, Amy and Mower Toby VP National (L-R) Andrew and Gail Quartner opened their - home for the Mid-Atlan - commit executive and Gur, Amy and Mota Margules, David (L-R) (L-R) Kampelman Forum co-chair Gary Lieber, Major Gen- Alliance Levene, Susan chair and Women’s Irving Taylor, (L-R) Dr. (L-R) Executive Committee members Selma and Richard Rynd, Society Socia Sapphire pin - presented Gur to (L-R) Sapphire Amy (L-R) Executive committee member Sheldon Berman, Mid- Sheldon member committee Executive (L-R) ...... tlantic Zone Atlantic Mid- 1 1 4 6 8 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 2

. Front: . Front: Negev Blueprint 9 2 joined joined Team JNF on the Israel Ride from Jerusalem to Eilat and Institute. the Arava and Hazon $90,000 for than raised more Mindy Borkson, board member Elliot Borkson, Jane Levy, and board board and Levy, Jane Borkson, Elliot member board Borkson, Mindy dinner. Barrymembers Bruce Levy the and award Finkel at the for Schear Abe chair gifts major of home the at gathered munity Freeman Itai heard Guestsfrom Event. Regional Southeast Kickoff - commu the by adopted project a Park, River Sheva Be’er the about Schear. Abe and Freeman, Itai Linda Schear, (L-R) nity. Paul Alterman and Peggy Alterman Shulman, drew 116 and raised both dollars for and excitement golfers (L-R) Israel emissary Ronnie Porat, Robert Alterman, Alter Tara Back: (L-R) Jill Miller. Michael Southern and man, Zone president Lerner, tournament chair Mark Kaufman, Karen Isenberg-Jones, Starr. Todd co-president and Alterman, Michael enjoyed a moment with her son Joshua Traub, the evening’s student student evening’s the Traub, Joshua son her with moment a enjoyed Dinner. Life of Tree the Broward at speaker, held on November 14 at the Boca Grove Plantation Club House. - Cyn Sherry, F. Laura director Beach regional Broward/Palm (L-R) thia Hertz, board co-president Michael Lazar, Marty Teitelbaum, Shapiro. Elaine Cantor chair education Linda Selbst, and Nineteen Nineteen riders from the Southeast, ranging in age from 14-70, (L-R) (L-R) Broward board member Art Greenfeder, Lori Greenfeder, (L-R) Broward board president and Makor chair Beckie Fischer The first meeting ofthe South Palm Beach board of directorswas - com Atlanta the from supporters key and members board 40 Over The first-ever JNFgolf tournament in Atlanta, held in memory of . . . 2. 3. 1. 1 Southern Zone Southern 8 3 6 8 7 9

2 4 Marsha Marsha Levy, and Alan co-honoree J. and Levy, president CEO of Dinner. Life of Tree the Broward at Farms, American Great the Design Center of the Americas in Dania Beach, FL. The evening’s evening’s The FL. Beach, Dania in Americas the of Center Gelb, Design the June and Ira Dr. Co-chairs (L-R) Sheva.” Be’er in “Picnic was theme president. FAU Brogan, Frank co-honoree and Courtney Brogan, the tea room and Tali’s heartwarming (L-R) presentation. Jennifer the tea room and Tali’s Chernin. Raye Ida and Rophie, Chernin, Sharon Marian Chavkin, Sara (L-R) Front: 10. November on year campaign treasurer National (L-R) Middle: Rubenstein. Beverly and Wiseman, Beach Palm Silber, Art gifts major of president vice Beach Palm and co-chair Dinner Award Life of Tree Seidel, Kathy co-chair education board past immediate and Karp, Jane Pikus, Sharon Sherman, Carol president Sheila Back: Wilensky. (L-R) Southern & Florida Zones director Glen D. Schwartz, Dr. Howard Begel, Michael Wiseman, Wiseman. Irving president board and Marcy Kaufman at “A Chai Tea to Meet Tali Tzour,” hosted on October October on hosted Tzour,” Tali Meet to Tea Chai “A at Kaufman Marcy Israel. for Campaign Society Women’s and the Sapphire 24 by its its first in Overevent to Orlando. 40 women gathered learn about the board Orlando (L-R) Sderot. in built being Center Israel JNF and Recreation speaker Indoor guest Faiber, Brenda Shapiro, Valerie president Meitin. Debbie chair event and Tzour, Tali emissary (L-R) Co-honoree Frank Brogan, FAU president, Courtney Brogan, Brogan, Courtney president, FAU Brogan, Frank Co-honoree (L-R) Broward held its annual Tree of Life Award Dinner on November 6 at 6 at November on Dinner Award Life of Tree annual its held Broward Over 35 women from both sides of the Tampa Bay area enjoyed ThePalm Beach ofboard held directors its first meeting ofthe new (L-R) (L-R) Barrie Slonim, Tampa Bay co-president Betsy Marcadis, and The Women’s Campaign for Israel held a wine and cheese reception, reception, a held cheese and wine Israel for Campaign Women’s The ...... Florida Zone Florida 7 5 3 1 6 4 5 3 1

JNF Across the Country 8 www.jnf.org www.jnf.org

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ecre Through “Let Us Play!” students collect donations by Students also learn about what it’s like to be a kid in Sderot. For more information or to register your school, visit To R www. JNF office at 888-JNF-0099. Next, we drove to the police station and saw racks “The violence won’t stop here,” Shimonsaid sadly. We said goodbye to Coby and Shimon and headed for There was orangean sunset that evening. I watched Jessi Glueck, 13, is an eighth grader in Leawood, Kansas. asking family and friends to sponsor their participation in a day of games and sports. To date, 143 schools have signed recog- special receive will participates that student Every up. nition from JNF, and schools that raise over $1,800 will be playground. the in plaque a on recognized permanently all“After of we the to spent time activities, the the explaining about care should they why and is Sderot where children of importance the discussed “We Frank. said there,” children a our world for making responsibility and taking teamwork en- pledge their returning been have children The place. better tochange pocket and banks piggy in bringing as well as velopes add to the money that will be sent to JNF for the playground.” www.jnf.org/letusplay. rity for Sderot. He was a big man, dark with the tan of many of tan the with dark man, big a was He Sderot. for rity in blown hole rocket a with house a us showed He summers. As hill. a on high outpost viewing a to us drove then roof, its said Coby us, before out spread Gaza all with there, stood we worriesShe shower. a take to afraid is daughter “My quietly, the sirens will go offand she won’t hear them. She always We were all silent after that.leaves the door open.” upon racks of metal shelves which held Kassam the rockets fired at Sderot. remains They were piled, of mangled and mashed, heap upon heap, hundreds stacked in messy with painted were tails and noses blunted ugly, Their rows. different colors showing which Palestinian terror group had made them: Hamas, Fatah, Islamic Jihad. I learned the rockets were mostly homemade from sheet metal and fuel. I looked at them wondering, “Why would someone who could be painting a picture, running a business, or raising a family choose to make instruments meant to kill the answer to. instead?” It’s a question I still don’t know The Aviv. Tel then Ashdod, then Ashkelon, be will it “Next ourselves.” killing will not stop if we do not end it from away desert, the from away sped We station. train the Sderot, away from the rockets piled on shelves rockets falling from the sky. and the it through the train window and thing I’d thought learned. I’d seen the terror and suffering and the about every- profound, impossible courage of the people of the to story their Sderot. tell would I day one I that myself promised world. I promised I would never forget. She travels to Israel every summer with her family, and is an aspiring writer.

ts in Sderot ar Across the M obilize Country to t Their Counterp Shimon Shimon took us to his lovely house and introduced us secu- of chief the Coby, meet to Shimon with left then We “The idea was for our children to experience an afternoon of afternoon an experience to children our for was idea “The The fundraiser was part of a national program called he remains of Kassam rockets fired at Sderot The remains of Kassam rockets station. lie in heaps at a local police with tile roofs and white houses, but were everywhere, signs of there fear and destruction. The school we passed had tiny windows and a steel roof. A pothole in the street as- the away sizzled had which hit rocket a be to out turned phalt. Strangely, though, my own panic lifted a little as we drove through the town. I’d arrived, and rockets had not spent people and other, any like town a was This yet. fallen hours. entire lives here. I could get through a few English, in questions him asked sister My Omer. son, his to he answered in Hebrew and my mom translated for them both. He told us that a siren would sound when et a was fired,rock- and then people rushed to their safe rooms. “Are you scared of the rockets?” my sister He questioned. smiled, shrugged, and answered, “It’s not that big a deal. My sister still gets scared, though.” When asked what it was like to attend a school with a roof reinforced and slits were eyes blue his and head, his shook Omer windows, for to prison,” he said. sad. “Going to school here is like going Students Suppor afternoon of games and activities to raise funds for JNF’s Indoor Recreation Center in Sderot. providing of importance the understand then and playing safe who of Sderot children the for of opportunity kind same the outdoors,”safely play can’t and rockets Kasssam with faced are said Charlotte Frank, education director at Adath Shalom. “Let Us Play!” which brings together students at congregation and day schools across the U.S. to support construction JNF's of a secure indoor recreation center for the children of Sderot. The $5 million, 20,000-square-foot facility, the largest of its kind in Israel, will provide Sderot’s youth with a safe place to have fun, connect with friends and simply be children. The first phase of construction was completed in late October.

My family and I were in Israel last Last July, while my friends beaches or relaxed enjoyed summer camp, on I visited Sderot, a town almost every day. where bombs fell summer, and my sister, mom and dad all wanted to go to Sderot to show - solidar ity. My sister hoped to publish an article The train ride from Caesarea seemed very long as I sat When we reached Ashkelon, Shimon, my dad’s friend Soon, we left this lush sanctuary and drove south, to- Then we finally arrived at Sderot. It was a lovely town, about Sderot in her high school newspaper. I but I was scared. cause they were going, went be- with my hands gripping the seat and my heart pounding with fear. My family was excited, but I felt small, almost cowardly beside them. I could not help thinking: Rockets might fall while we’re there. We might have to hide in a bomb shelter. What if one of us gets hurt? on us took He station. the at us met Sderot, of native a and a tour of the surrounding area, pointing out monuments We oases. beautiful small, and Independence of War the to saw a little pond, ringing with birdcalls and surrounded by green, fruit-bearing trees. There, for a while, my terror faded. The outside world seemed far away. wards Sderot. The ride overbumpy and the heat-baked stifling andearth was I kept bottle, which was now warm enough to sippingpass for hot soup. frommy water We drove over a hill and saw a dark place filled with low buildings stretching as far as the eye could was This see. shadow. blue Theominous long, wall a cast it surrounding Gaza, filled with terrorists groups and rockets and desper- much too small. ate unrest. The wall encircling it seemed Students at Adath Shalom Religious School in NJ show their support for the children of Sderot at a JNF “Let Us Play!” event. In November, third and fourth graders at Adath Shalom Religious School in Morris Plains, NJ gathered for an Sderot: A City of Courage City of A Sderot: i Glueck By Jess Perlman maintains that because of the school’s new zest zest new school’s the of because that maintains Perlman “They figured that if they were going to donate mon- JNF looks forward to growing the Ambassadors Pro- Students will meet with environmental experts and In March, students will spend one week in Israel vol- “We are extraordinarily grateful to the Jim Joseph what to wish for, some of my students asked him to give to him asked students my of some for, wish to what Sderot playground project.” money to JNF for the Program, Ambassadors the by on brought Israel and JNF for invitations their printing are boys mitzvah bar the of some donat- money the want and Program, Simcha JNF’s through (see page 11). ed to their pet project—the Sderot playground ey to Israel, it might as well be to the Sderot playground which they were already learning about,” decision. Brandwein, regarding her son Jordan’s said Mayet gram after its pilot year, with a goal of expanding to 50 schools nationwide. For information on how you can help, contact Mara Suskauer at [email protected] or 212-879-9305 ext. 230. and building and landscaping. Each topic will be studied be will studied topic Each and landscaping. and building the about learning by perspective, environmental an from science and innovation relating to the subject; a Jewish and texts; ancient and modern examining by perspective, Israel. and City York New of studies case at looking by participate in volunteer activities. Conversations about responsibility communal and personal and justice social will be incorporated throughout. unteering on an environmental kibbutz as part of Alternative JNF’s Spring Break. They will study environmental and participate in laboratory a living and solutions issues When they home, return projects. in service incorporates community that choice their of project a on work will they community. NYU the engages and learned have they what and to Foundation JNF for making this groundbreaking experience possible for Center. our students," Bronfman said the Sam Krentz- at coordinator projects special man, “The fellowship will enable us to share Judaism’sresponsi- communal and deep environmental about teachings bility while taking action and relating those teachings to realities faced in New York City and in Israel.” The Jim Joseph Foundation, established in 2006, is Now in its pilot year, the program is multi-denomi- At the Solomon Schechter School of Queens, the “We were writing our ‘dreams and wishes’ letters “We welcome the Jim Joseph Foundation into the JNF the into Foundation Joseph Jim the welcome “We such issues environmental on focus will fellowship The Dvora Joseph, a Jim Joseph Foundation board member. member. board a Foundation Jim Joseph, Joseph Dvora “We believe that to approach this Jewish multi-faceted to an students explore which allows important learning study, Jewish of traditional a combination through topic hands-on leaders, community and peers with interaction will be and self-exploration to our service environment, both effective and impactful for the student participants.” committed to a sustained program of grant-making in pursuit of a vision that leads to ever-increasing num- learning Jewish ongoing in engaged Jews young of bers and choosing to live vibrant Jewish lives. The Founda- or Sukkot—two Jewish, earthy holidays—that’s a great moment to highlight what JNF does for the land of Is- rael,” explained Beller. high school. through pre-K grades and involves national Eleven schools across the country are participating. In for Coalition the at trained were ambassadors the August, the Advancement of Jewish Education (CAJE) Confer- ence. Upon their return home they began to implement schools.their newly gained knowledge in their respective fourth-grade students are putting their lessons into action in a serious way. to President-elect Obama,” said Steffany Perlman,them telling me the without “and, Ambassador, JNF school’s tion manages close to one billion dollars, using all of its resources to foster compelling, effective Jewish learning for young Jews in the United States. of chief D.Min., Lankin, Eric Rabbi said family,” educational institutional advancement and education at JNF. “This pro- of a in development our role an important play will gram world our coun- the across students college engaging for plan strategic facing challenge environmental critical the on try and Israel’s global environmental leadership through JNF.” as energy, water, food production, waste and recycling, Students at Congregation Brothers of Israel in Newtown, PA test Students at Congregation creek for World Water Monitoring the water quality of a local on. Day as their JNF Ambassador, Naomi Baer, looks

hile JNF has long worked closely with thousands of thousands with closely worked long has JNF hile throughout schools congregational and day Jewish

Enter JNF Ambassadors. Enter JNF Ambassadors. The program, which pairs teachers parents and in a form to JNF for way a is program Ambassadors “The According to a recent study by the Lookstein Cen- B’Shevat Tu about learning be to happens school a “If Twenty Twenty students will participate in the fellowship, supporting beto proud is Foundation Joseph Jim “The Alternative Spring Break participants build a bench out of recycled materials at Kibbutz Lotan, an environmental kibbutz in Israel’s Arava Desert. the U.S., the Israel Advocacy and Education Department Department Education and Advocacy Israel the U.S., the always looks for creative ways to develop even stronger and their students. bonds with those schools schools across the country to sadors,” was work developed to as involve the JNF community and “ambas- make parents directly responsible for the educational programming in their children’s schools. Once selected and trained, the pair is responsible for enhancing JNF- schools. Israel education in their helpand with work we schools the with connection deeper effectively,” materials education of array our utilize to them Manager. said Michelle Beller, JNF’s Education Programs ter for Jewish Education at Bar Ilan the best Jewish day schools only devote an average of University, 16 even hours per year to Israel education. JNF ambassadors are with materials education Israel JNF’s pair to encouraged their school’s existing curriculum, integrating them as ‘learning moments’ throughout the year. This way, Is- pieces, and bits in presented constantly is education rael class time. without taking up too much additional

The Jim Joseph Foundation has awarded a $50,000 grant $50,000 a awarded has Foundation Joseph Jim The for the Jewish National Fund/ Bronfman Center Jewish Environmental Fellowship at New York University. and issues sustainability environmental on focus will which their connection to Jewish values and tradition. By exam- lens, the an through environmental content ining Jewish program aims to engage programming. unaffiliated JewishJewish students who existing in interested be not might the development of Jewish between the partnership unique the and program Jewish ship Environmental Fellow- National Fund and the NYU Bronfman Center,” said Jim Joseph Foundation Funds Environmental Fellowship at NYU at FundsJim Joseph Fellowship Foundation Environmental

W JNF Education Front & Center with Ambassadors Program with Ambassadors & Center EducationJNF Front

www.jnf.org

Israel Advocacy & Education 10 Funding Creative Solutions to Israel’s Water Crisis Q&A: Noah Kinarti Harnessing An interview with one of Israel’s leading water experts principles. JNF has always played a leadership role in Jerusalem. Water is collected on the school’s rooftop, Nature’s Ingenuity addressing Israel’s long-term and short-term needs; sent down through pipes, held in a container and then he surrounding desert landscape is sandy, this fund is the next installment in that vision. used to flush toilets. The school has taught its students oah Kinarti was, in a sense, born into Israel’s Tdusty, and desolate as far as the eye can see, but “The goal is to raise $100 million to develop water about conservation, reduced its water consumption by Nwater issues. A senior advisor to the minister of at the Ramon Air Force Base near Mitzpe Ramon, sources for Israel and her neighbors,” said project chair 82% and saved a lot of money to boot. the development of the Negev and the Galilee, Kinarti 3,000 military personnel and their families —in- Dr. Morton Mower, a World Chairman’s Council mem- An advisory committee is under formation in Israel. is one of the leading water experts in Israel. His par- cluding 200 children— enjoy a beautiful green park ber and himself an inventor. “The projects will all be Its members, who will consult on the projects, include ents, Shlomo and Hannah, were among the founders complete with picnic spots, playing fields, a prom-

approved by the Israel Water Authority who will also Tammi Schor, division director for the Israel Water Au- of Kvutzat Kinneret, on the southwest shore of the enade, and an amphitheatre for performances and W at er i n sr a e l

E n vi ronmen t give grants to each project. Additionally, the agricultur- thority; Professor Alon Tal, leading environmentalist at Kinneret (Sea of Galilee), the country’s largest water ceremonies. al associates who benefit from the individual projects Ben Gurion University; Professor Uri Shamir, director reservoir. With the support of congregations throughout must commit to their physical and financial mainte- of the Water Institute at the Technion in Haifa; Shimon Since the early 1990's, Kinarti, now 67, has served as the U.S., JNF built the 7.5-acre Ramon Park to im- nance over the long term and manage them based on Tal, former water commissioner, and Moshe Cohen, a special advisor in the fields of settlement, infrastruc- prove the quality of life for the residents of the base, sound business principles. After a pre-stated period of chief water engineer for KKL. ture and water to three prime ministers (Itzhak Rabin, one of Israel’s most important military installations. time, the initial investment made by the Fund will re- “This represents leadership, partnership and a new Shimon Peres and Ehud Barak) and two ministers of Now, JNF is developing a sustainable way of Students at the Eliashar School in Jerusalem learn about water conservation through a program that harvests rainfall on the school’s rooftop. turn to the Fund to be reinvested in future ventures. It way of thinking,” said Mower. “It is looking at the defense (Benjamin Ben Eliezer and Shaul Mofaz). He maintaining the park while treating the base’s waste- is a work of true partnership.” situation for the long term; it is vital that we are not was also head of the water team during the peace talks water: constructed wetlands. 12 It is with great excitement and pride that JNF announc- For the donors, nothing changes. They will still re- shortsighted. Israel has plans to deal with the water (1992-1996), and signed Israel’s water agreements with An environmentally sound method for purify- 13

www.jnf.org es the JNF Parsons Water Fund. ceive tax deductions and naming rights. crisis through 2010; we must have plans that take us Jordan and the Palestinian Authority. ing waste water, constructed wetlands duplicate the www.jnf.org Natan Parsons z”l, of Boston, was an inventor with Philanthropic investments will be made in the areas through 2050. That requires us to be creative and in- We sat down with him to discuss the current water physical, chemical, and biological processes that over 100 worldwide patents including one we all use daily of advocacy and education, the construction of 40 new novative in our solutions.” crisis in Israel. occur in the unique ecosystem of natural wetlands – — sensory faucets and toilets — and served as JNF VP reservoirs (and the inclusion of covers to prevent evap- where water, plants, animals, microorganisms, sun, for water projects. He was also co-founder of the Logica oration), R&D, accessing new sources of water (drilling soil, and air interact to remove contaminants from Foundation, a charitable trust set up to fund scientific and for new aquifers), and river clean up. JNF is proud to announce a new partnership with the B’Yachad: Where does Israel’s water situation stand today? and in the near future we will have more facilities in wastewater. social endeavors in Israel and the U.S. One of the more exciting short-term opportuni- Palmachim, Hadera, Shomrat and other sites. American Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel Noah Kinarti: Israel’s water situation is very dire at Spearheaded by Parsons before he passed away, ties lies with 1,000 schools that will harvest rainfall. (ASPNI) that will focus on education and environmental the moment, and only if we take the right steps will the Water Fund will address the dire water crisis in The program is inexpensive to implement and has projects throughout Israel. Stay tuned! we prevent it from becoming catastrophic. We are very Israel philanthropically but based on sound business already been successful in the Eliashar School in BY: Why has it taken so long to go ahead with such a close to what we call “The Black Line,” which means ir- vital process? reparable damage to our main water sources. NK: The Ministry of Finance opposed the idea for decades, because the heads of its budget department This Tu B’Shevat, Remember To Think Green BY: How important are JNF reservoirs to Israel's water thought it would require a drastic increase in the price economy? of water to private consumers. All those years they believed in reducing water quotas for agriculture, which NK: The reservoirs play a major role in the field of ir- hese days it’s hard to open a newspaper or turn what they can do to make a difference. last year or conserving electricity in your household, ev- nearly caused a national disaster! The fact that we rigation. They are one of the main reasons we are the on the television without being inundated with in- Individuals can visit www.jnf.org/goneutral and ery single action you take has an impact on the world didn't start working seriously on desalination in 1990, T number one country in the world in using treated formation about the environment. It was a hot topic use our carbon calculator to determine how they are around you. Visit our GoNeutral website and get in- the year of one of the worst droughts we had ever waste water. Over 70% of our water is used for recy- in the presidential election and will certainly remain personally affecting the environment. Congregations volved today! known, was Israel's principal mistake in this field. I am cling and irrigation. Number two, by the way, is Spain, a major factor in political decisions for years to come. can join our Synagogue Affiliate Program to take ad- glad that now we are moving in the right direction. with only 14%. So the reservoirs are VERY important, But before hybrid cars and solar panels there was Jew- vantage of the educational content and programming but we need more—dozens of them. ish National Fund — an organization that made a name ideas we offer. And students can get involved by join- for itself more than 100 years ago by purchasing land in ing Green Corps, Green Team, or Project Green — age BY: How much water does Israel plan to desalinate and Israel and planting trees. Who knew that Theodor Her- appropriate environmental groups for students who how much will it cost? BY: What else can be done? zl and his fellow leaders were such environmentalists! want to take the lead in getting their schools involved NK: 500 million cubic meters of seawater over the next Working with a company called Water Fund Today, JNF still performs groundbreaking envi- with improving the environment. NK: We need to do two things urgently: save as much five years, and another 250 million by the year 2020. Investments, JNF will fund the construction of wet- ronmental work in Israel in addition to planting trees. As Tu B’Shevat, the Jewish New Year for the trees, water wherever we can (which includes conservation The cost will be between $2-3 per cubic meter per year. lands to purify the base’s wastewater. Wetlands are We lead the world in recycled water purification tech- approaches, we encourage you to take a moment and and recycling), and desalinate millions of cubic meters considerably cheaper and easier to construct, operate niques, develop methods for arid land management, think about how you can make a difference. In Israel, of seawater as fast as we can. Conservation simply re- and maintain than their conventional alternatives, and invest in alternative energy projects. No other or- Tu B'Shevat is a time for families to get together, visit quires general and intense effort by each and every one BY: All in all, are you optimistic regarding our future which require substantial amounts of electro-mag- ganization has been doing so much work on behalf of forests and plant trees. A recent poll showed that 93% of us. Desalination is a different story because it re- in this field? netic equipment, increased electricity consumption, the environment for such a long time. In order to help of Israelis believe that Tu B'Shevat tree plantings are es- quires government resolutions. Recently, the relevant and complex maintenance. people reduce their impact on the planet, we recently sential to enlarging the country's green belts. This year, resolutions have been taken – almost 20 years after NK: Desalination, educating the public to save water Once the wetlands are completed, nature will launched JNF GoNeutral — a cutting-edge environ- plant a tree in Israel to show your love for the land. they should have been – but the process is underway. and more reservoirs are needed. If we'll have these – be left to work its magic on the base’s wastewater, mental campaign aimed at educating people about Whether it’s planting a tree to offset a flight you took We already have a desalination facility in Ashkelon, we should be fine. which will then be used to keep the park green for years to come. It is already working. A River Will A renewed sense of energy is in the air in Be’er Sheva. But back to the park. “This park has to meet the needs of within a flood plain, which Be’er Sheva is. Everything in its Newly built promenades are being used by runners and a diverse population,” said Freeman, “which includes stu- path has to be considered and that’s what we are doing. But cyclists alike. An internship sponsored by JNF is success- dents; Orthodox and Bedouin alike for whom modesty is the finished part of the promenade – about two miles out of fully matching up Ben Gurion University students with an issue; mothers with many children and a small budget, the total five – has already created the ‘wow’ factor. The lo- Run Through It employment opportunities, keeping the brains in the Ne- and families playing ball. It has to be a park for everyone. cal community has begun to get excited about what’s going gev rather than losing them to Tel Aviv or Jerusalem. The “Water will be the lure, the attraction,” he continued. on and they are starting to get involved. This coming Ha- Old Turkish City is undergoing a gentrification and there “Using only recycled water that will be pumped up and nukkah thousands of teens, families, soldiers, and school The Negev Desert blooms and it all starts in Be’er Sheva are more families on the waiting list for new homes in sur- sent back, it will give the illusion of flowing water. The chal- children will celebrate here as part of JNF’s ‘Illuminating rounding suburbs than ever before. lenge, like that faced in San Antonio, is developing a park the Negev’ project. And that is what it’s all about.” e’er Sheva, known as the capital of the Negev, is home Bto 200,000 residents. Through it runs Nahal Be’er Sheva (Be’er Sheva River), a muddy trickle of water ex- cept on the few days a year when flash floods run down its banks. The city’s image mirrors this landscape. Despite its historical significance and vibrancy, many see Be’er Sheva as culturally and geographically isolated from modern Is- Promenade Plantings rael. Jewish National Fund, with its partners, is working to transform Be’er Sheva into a shining example of Jewish ingenuity through a massive water, environment, and economic development project. What Be’er Sheva needs is a renaissance, and JNF, through its Blueprint Negev initiative, is spearheading the Promenade under construction effort. At the centerpiece is the transformation of Nahal Be’er Sheva into a 1,700-acre civic paradise along with the reconstruction of areas of historical significance like the ancient well route where the patriarch Abraham walked. The polluted riverbed that intersects the city from east to west has already been cleaned up, and landscaped promenades are beginning to line its banks. Additional plans include creating a park with an artificial lake filled with recycled water, planting 40,000 trees, building nature trails, hotels, botanical gardens, fruit groves, a 10,000-seat am- phitheater for the performing arts and more. Nahal Be’er Sheva will be an engine for the city’s re- Beit Eshel Restoration birth. The promise of a thriving waterfront district is already attracting new businesses and enticing visitors passing through the city to stop, relax, and enjoy a green desert oasis that offers a wealth of cultural possibilities for Promenade family recreation, including an art museum and cultural JNF is of course not working alone, and plans for re- center. Beautiful new homes and apartment buildings ori- vitalizing the Negev are not focused only on Be’er Sheva. ented toward the park and the river have already sprung How is this being accomplished? With goals of growing the Negev’s population, closing eco- up and young families are moving to these exciting new nomic and educational gaps, reducing the unemployment neighborhoods. Nahal Be’er Sheva is the linchpin of the The very same engineering team that revitalized San done because we spent a lot of time researching it and rate, creating quality of life for all residents, and building Negev community’s revival, bringing new life to the region Antonio, Texas, with the creation of the Riverwalk, is have taken our inspiration from San Antonio, TX and a stronger Israel, the plan includes a government invest- and a reason for its residents to remain and prosper. helping to do just that in Be’er Sheva. Their focus is the wa- Phoenix, AZ.” ment of over $4 billion, non-profit investment of $600 JNF is using its expertise in water rehabilitation to terfront, ensuring it has the right mix of uses and activities In 1930, San Antonio had 230,000 residents and no visi- million, and private investment of $2.5 billion. Blueprint recycle the city’s water and transport it to a 20-acre lake. to attract residents on a regular basis. They have learned tors. In 2000, 1.5 million people called it their home and it Negev includes infrastructure; housing loans and incen- The water will be cleaned, stored, and then sent down that a good waterfront project will not only increase tour- boasted 13 million tourists. It grew from the nation’s 41st tives; education; employment opportunities; tourism; the dry riverbed year-round as clean water for recreation ism and trade, but will create employment opportunities, largest city to its 7th largest. All because of the riverfront. partnerships; bolstering existing towns; greening military that will bring renewed life to downtown Be’er Sheva. The preserve and restore historic buildings, and truly enhance “The water ties the different parts of the city together,” bases; building new communities; working with Bedouin riverbanks will be home to 1,700 acres of new parks, span- a city’s image. said Edward Garza, a former mayor of San Antonio and councils; protecting the environment; and discovering and ning five miles. JNF has already begun to build some parks “We want to accomplish two main goals with the river principal of the global planning, design, and management protecting water resources. along the river, and renovate historical sites including Beit project,” said Itai Freeman, project director for the Be’er firm AECOM, which designed the riverfront. “It offers op- It was David Ben Gurion’s dream to make the Negev Eshel and the Turkish Bridge. Sheva River Park management. “We want to enhance the portunities to live, work, and play.” Desert bloom. It is finally becoming a reality. As the Israeli The hope is to increase the population of Be’er Sheva to local identity by giving the residents an icon, and, after “What worked in San Antonio will work in Be’er Sheva,” newspaper Yediot Hanegev wrote in a recent article: “Go 400,000. Through the Be’er Sheva River Park, Be’er She- years of broken promises to the region, to make people said Freeman. “The riverfront will transform the city into a Turkish Bridge take a short trip to the Be’er Sheva River, and you’ll come va’s image is being transformed into that of a green and believe that big and long-term projects can be done. We desirable place of choice in which to raise a family. It is the back encouraged and with a lot of faith in your heart.” vibrant modern city, truly the capital of the Negev. want to make good on the promise. We know it can be most critical project.” A Lifetime of Devotion JNF 2008 National Conference - Sept. 14–15 - Phoenix, AZ hile traveling in Israel in 1968, Shirley and Robert the conference, celebrating Israel’s 60th anniversary, was the most successful to date and Levitt of Greensboro, NC were deeply moved by the W enjoyed by long-time JNF donors, newcomers, Israeli partners, and young leaders alike. land, people, and heritage and asked their tour guide what On their visits to Israel, Robert and Shirley Levitt met with dignitaries including (from left) Yitzhak Shamir, Yitzhak Rabin, Moshe Arens, and Natan Sharansky.

they could do to support the fledgling Jewish State. His re- Nati on al C onference rec a p sponse was not unlike what one might hear today: “Make a And why the Negev? “The Negev was Ben-Gurion’s wish,” They worked in a medical warehouse, packaging antiseptic donation to Jewish National Fund —they are Israel!” she said. “I don’t know if he wished it after 60 years or 160, but equipment for the army; leftovers were sent to third world

J e wi s h n ati on al fun d Almost forty years later, the couple remembered the it seems the plausible place for Jews to go. It is Israel’s future.” countries. Arriving in uniform each day, they braved the words of their guide and created four annuities with JNF. Shirley’s deep connection to Israel took root 15 years warehouse’s freezing temperatures by bundling up in coats After Robert passed away in March 2008 at the age of 91, before her 1968 visit with Robert. After a 12-hour overnight and hats and drinking cup after cup of tea. They absolutely Shirley decided to leave a permanent legacy in Israel by train ride from Paris to Marseilles, she took a five-day trip loved it. “It really made the experience, being able to do funding the construction of a $2.5 million synagogue in the across the Mediterranean something pragmatic to help Israel,” said Shirley. Negev community of Carmit. on the SS Jerusalem cargo Now her pragmatism is taking a different shape. A project of JNF and the OR Movement, Carmit is a ship, which also carried 300 The Robert & Shirley Levitt Synagogue will be a central new planned community in the Negev Desert designed to displaced persons, to spend meeting place for religious services, holiday celebrations, Jew- primarily attract American professionals and retirees who a summer alone in Israel. ish educational programs, social activities and simchas, and

want to make aliyah. Modeled after the gated communities Robert (z”l) and Shirley Levitt. Upon disembarking in will ensure Carmit’s spiritual vitality and population growth. of the American Southwest, it will boast a variety of high- Haifa, she saw a crowd of peo- “Shirley Levitt, in loving memory of her husband Rob- end amenities and will be home to 2,600 families. Carmit ple holding up photographs of family members and shouting ert, is fulfilling the dream of David Ben-Gurion by making 16 is part of JNF’s Blueprint Negev initiative to bring life to “Do you know so-and-so?” World War II had ended eight the desert bloom and ensuring the sustainability of Israel 17

www.jnf.org the Negev Desert. years earlier, but people were still searching for relatives. for generations to come,” said Steven Green, Southeast re- www.jnf.org When asked why this project resonates with her, Shirley, 93, Shirley returned to Israel seven more times with Rob- gional director of JNF. “She is truly a visionary.” a retired guidance counselor and special education instructor, ert, never for less than two or three weeks. The most recent “The Carmit synagogue and community will serve as a explained, “It is visible, it is structural, and it is eternal—that’s trip was 12 years ago when she and Robert, who served for constant reminder of the lifetime of love and devotion that what attracted me to it. A park or a playground is not eternal many years as chief labor counsel for Western Electric, Robert and Shirley have had for one another and for Israel,” Nowhere was the energy of the conference more palpable than in. and doesn’t have the essence of G-d and religion.” volunteered for a month with the Israel Defense Forces. said Matt Bernstein, chief planned giving officer for JNF. the session on JNFuture, the gateway to JNF for the next generation.

estimated the total annual economic value of coral reefs to Watch Your Garden Grow…Underwater be between $100,000 and $600,000 per square kilometer. Israel Leads the Way in Coral Reef Restoration Active restoration, as a central concept in reef management, has also been drawing increasing attention because A JNF mission participant dives into smart Israeli to devise a potential solution that could posi- most efforts to conserve degrading reefs have failed to yield the Red Sea to plant a coral nursery. tively affect the entire world.” significant results, and traditional rehabilitation measures Over the past 20-30 years, coral reefs throughout the have not successfully compensated for the fast decline. world have been degrading at an alarming rate. There are Moreover, in many reef areas, the poor state of the reefs many culprits, including coastal development and agricul- has reached a critical point where management activities ture, warming sea waters and acidification linked to climate can no longer effectively conserve remnants of precious change, over-fishing, unsustainable tourism, and pollution. reef populations or prevent further habitat degradation. Enter the National Institute of Oceanography (NIO) The NIO’s strategy of “gardening coral reefs,” is a two- in Haifa, Israel and the research of Dr. Baruch Rinkevich step process. First, instead of direct transplantation, large participants received information on a multitude of JNF projects and learned and Dr. Shai Shafir, which JNF is helping to fund. With pools of farmed corals and spats are constructed within ways to advocate for Israel and inspire the next generation of donors. the idea of actively restoring reefs as opposed to just con- specially designed underwater coral nurseries. “These nurs- It’s like what JNF does with trees in the earth, but instead serving them, they built the first mid-water floating coral eries are not attached to the bottom of the sea,” explained it’s coral underwater. nursery in the world and are sharing the concept with other Dr. Shafir, “because then they would be exposed tothe JNF President Stanley Chesley captured the essence and Chaired by Jeffrey Levine, Greater NY Zone president, East diplomacy and the U.S. presidential election, and en- On a recent mission to Israel with JNF, a few lucky par- countries, including Thailand, Singapore, the Philippines, same dangers that the reefs are falling victim to. Instead, a spirit of JNF in general and the conference in particular and Marc Kelman, Western Zone president, the confer- joyed a night at The Navajo Museum keynoted by author ticipants found themselves on a boat off of Eilat, engaged Jamaica, and Tanzania. buoy is attached to the frame that houses the nursery and with his very first words at the opening plenary: “I have ence, celebrating Israel’s 60th anniversary, was the most and activist Natan Sharansky. in a fun and fascinating project. “Coral reefs are often portrayed as ‘the rain forest of floats it at a depth that we choose, often depending on the been part of the Jewish organizational world for 50 years successful to date and enjoyed by long-time JNF donors, Nowhere was the energy of the conference more pal- After a brief lesson from marine biologists about the the sea,’” said Shafir. “This refers to their being one of the season. We like to keep them shallow enough so they can but have never seen commitment like this!” newcomers, Israeli partners, and young leaders alike. “No pable than in the session on JNFuture, the gateway for loss of coral reefs around the world, they super-glued little most productive biological ecosystems on earth, to their get sunlight but in the stormy season we can lower them to Touching on all aspects of the campaign, his was the audience is more committed to the State of Israel,” said Efi the next generation to JNF. The standing-room-only ses- pieces of coral onto objects that resembled golf tees, loaded high level of biodiversity, and above all, to their function as protect them from sustaining damage.” first official address to the 300 participants at JNF’s 2008 Stenzler, KKL world chairman in his remarks, “and I have sion was a real testament to the health and vitality of this them onto a grid and floated them down into the Red Sea, the building blocks of the ecosystem framework.” Eilat’s small farm can grow between 6,000-10,000 corals; it National Conference at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Phoenix, come to make you a promise: that we are doing everything 107-year-old organization and in what seemed like the op- where they were left to grow. The underwater equivalent of According to the International Coral Reef Initia- takes about a year for them to mature enough to transplant. AZ, on September 14-15 titled, “It’s a Desert Thing.” we can to be worthy of your attention.” posite of protocol, the older generation gave their chairs planting saplings in a forest, no drip irrigation required. tive, coral reefs cover less than one percent of the ocean “Basically, what we’ve done here is copy the forestry “Israel has brought us together in this room and given With a chock-full agenda, participants received the lat- up to the younger generation. With terrific passion, the “It is a simple but brilliant answer to a problem that has floor, but support about twenty-five percent of allma- concept,” said Shafir, “and the idea is really taking hold us the ability to stand tall as Jews,” he said. “This is our est information on a multitude of JNF projects, learned panel members each spoke about the uniqueness of both surfaced around the world,” said Ralph Rotman, one of the rine life, with over 4,000 species of fish alone. Reefs act around the world because you can use it almost anywhere. time, you are our leadership and I am proud to be your ways to advocate for Israel and inspire the next generation JNF and JNFuture and how it empowers them. JNF guests on the boat that day. “Of all the countries in as natural breakwaters, minimizing impact from cy- What we told ourselves is that if a reef can be destroyed president.” of donors, heard from well-known speakers on Middle the world who are suffering damage to their reefs, Israel is clones, hurricanes, and typhoons, and form the basis for it can also be rebuilt. It’s not just about conservation, but the smallest and has the smallest reef. But leave it to some tourism and fishing industries. The United Nations has also about active restoration.” Creative Ways to Give to Charity Looking Ahead With JNFuture eri Shatz wanted to do something important through JNFuture has proven that Jewish National Fund remains Jewish National Fund for the State of Israel, but, said G extremely relevant to young people who care about Israel the Bucks County, PA resident, “there’s a real limit to how and the environment — even after more than a century much more I could give each year.” of existence. What began as a small group of 20- and 30- The answer: Shatz bought a $100,000 life insurance somethings in New York has expanded to Chicago, LA,

policy and named JNF as the owner. J e wi s h Nati on al F un d Philadelphia, San Francisco, Atlanta, and Denver and be- “I wanted to make a statement with this decision,” she come an integral part of the organization. said, “and I hope others, particularly other women, follow Guests at Garden of Eden enjoyed an evening of live

Pla nne d G ivi n g suit. It’s important for women to be part of the major gift swing music, a DJ, open bar, and silent auction, and conversation. For Sapphire Society members who have munched on sushi and dessert. Manhattan Borough Presi- filled out their pins, this is a way to open up a ‘second cen- (L-R) Inbal Baum and guest, Alana Shultz, dent Scott Stringer made a guest appearance, and close to tury of giving.’ Our donors will have the opportunity for Zvi Lantsberg and Naomi Dabi. $30,000 was raised for JNF’s Blueprint Negev initiative. permanent recognition for this action.” “My parents have been involved with JNF but before my mom, who got an e-blast from JNF,” said party attendee Actively involved in JNF’s volunteer speakers bureau (L-R) Todd Genger, JNFuture marketing chair, Manhattan Borough this event my only personal connection was through buy- Greg Davis. “After that experience, which was amazing, I and national chair of the Sapphire Society, its women’s President Scott Stringer, and Ben Jablonski, JNFuture chair. ing a couple of trees,” said Dan Getman, who came to decided to join the JNFuture leadership cabinet. It’s really major gifts division, Shatz has now endowed JNF with a n November 13, over 300 people gathered at NYC Garden of Eden because his friend was on the host com- cool to see how ASB has been a springboard for JNFuture, major gift forever in her name. hotspot Tenjune for JNFuture’s 2nd annual gala, mittee. “When I heard that JNF was having a swanky event an entryway for more involvement in the organization.” 18 Here’s how it works: Shatz pur- O 19 Swingin’ in the Garden of Eden. at an awesome venue, I thought, ‘Why not, I should go.’ On deck for JNFuture is a young professionals mission www.jnf.org chased a life insurance policy www.jnf.org The third major event for JNFuture, JNF’s new young It’s a great organization.” to Israel in February. with a face value of $100,000 and leadership division, Garden of Eden came on the heels of While many have connected to JNFuture through friends, “What we are trying to do is to create a whole new gen- named JNF as owner and irre- this summer’s wildly successful Shabbat in the Park, which a large number have become involved through another JNF eration of leaders and to get young people excited about vocable beneficiary. To fund the brought together over 250 people for the first-ever Shabbat program geared towards young people: Alternative Spring JNF and its modern undertakings in Israel,” said JNF cam- policy, Shatz will write a check celebration in Central Park. Break (ASB), a community service trip for 18 to 30-year-olds. paign executive Gabrielle Carlin. to JNF in the amount of $1,000 Since its launch in June 2007, the rapid growth of “I went on ASB two years ago after hearing about it from For more information, visit www.jnf.org/jnfuture. each year. JNF will, in turn, pay the premium to the insurance company. This will allow her to preserve her tax deduction. Why Faith Matters spective of someone who has had his exists only so that he can survive. One can believe in evolu- Geri Shatz Upon her demise, JNF will re- own struggles with religion, having tion, he reasons, and still maintain that there are spiritual ceive the $100,000, and establish By Rabbi David Wolpe abandoned it for a time himself. The mysteries that are wholly unrelated to and unanswered by an endowment in Shatz’s name whose purpose is to per- which is so meaningful,” she said. “This is a great way to the cost is manageable, and, just as I have, you’ve locked in book details his own spiritual path— Darwin and his theories. It is simply an example of where manently fund her Sapphire gift. have your commitment continue even when you can no a gift in perpetuity to a cause that is close to your heart.” his rejection of faith as an adolescent, he sees science and faith to be congruent in ways in which Reviewed by Melanie Greenberg “I will continue to make a major gift to the annual cam- longer make a gift, and it does not affect the inheritance JNF’s Planned Giving Department can be reached at his years studying philosophies that they are generally perceived to be incompatible. paign of JNF, and now will be a Sapphire member eternally, you leave for your family. You can set this up now, when 800-562-7526. In his recent book, “Why Faith Matters,” Rabbi David Wolpe dispelled the “myth” of religion, and In large part, Wolpe is striving to debunk the cynicism discusses the role of faith in the contemporary world. What his ultimate return to Judaism. He surrounding religion. He suggests that one of the most is most refreshing about Wolpe is his ability to discuss faith discovered that, through religion, he common misconceptions about religion is that it generates in a way that is apt to make sense to non-believers. would never understand why things violence—that it merely serves as a means to justify wars Financial Planning in Trying Economic Times All too often authors such as Wolpe seem focused on happened but could find the neces- and power-grabbing. Wolpe argues that humans are by By Matt Bernstein, CFP, JNF Chief Planned Giving Officer trying to win a debate—between faith and science, faith sary tools for coping with his hardships—and he has had nature predisposed to be self-seeking and self-destructive. and logic, faith and philosophy. In so doing, they tend to hardships in abundance. He describes for us his personal The arc of history backs this assertion. He suggests that, As I write this column the stock mar- into a vehicle that will guarantee a fixed rate of income be structured to cover one or two lives and can even be alienate the very audience that they are striving to reach. battle with cancer as well as his wife’s and the role that faith if anything, faith provides people with a moral foundation ket is down again over 170 points and regardless of market conditions. JNF can offer a solution designed to act like a supplemental retirement plan by de- Wolpe, however, takes a more practical approach by sug- played in getting him through his struggles. Rabbi Wolpe that can be used to combat our otherwise selfish natures. the losses for the year are really pil- to this problem and a way to help Israel at the same time. ferring income for a number of years. gesting that these concepts are not mutually exclusive. He does not suggest that prayer enabled him to put an end to There is evidence to back the claim that people involved ing up. A recent article in the Wall As many of our donors know, JNF runs one of the most is, in essence, making the case that to be a person of faith his suffering. However, through his journey he came to with a religious organization are more likely to volunteer, Street Journal bemoaned the fact successful charitable gift annuity programs in the country. Here are some of the single life annuity rates we currently offer: does not preclude one from being a critical thinker. It helps discover that the point of religion is not that it eradicates or donate, stay faithful to their spouses, spend time with their that retirees who are subject to re- We believe our success is due to the fact that we offer very that he can serve as an example of his own point. Rabbi even explains our difficulties but that it gives us the founda- families—in essence, to stay grounded in a system of val- Age 60 5.7% Age 80 8.0% quired minimum distributions are competitive annuity rates and that our donors enjoy the Wolpe is clearly a man with a wide breadth of interests and tion we need to get through them. ues. Faith used to justify violence, he asserts, is not true Age 65 6.0% Age 85 9.5% being pinched unfairly because their stability of receiving a steady income check, all with the knowledge, evident by the range of texts cited throughout This does not mean that to engage in a religious tradition faith but the perversion of faith. Age 70 6.5% Age 90+ 11.3% 2008 distributions are being based on market values from knowledge that their annuity gift will ultimately support his book. It is anticipated and not all that persuasive for means to cease all questioning. On the contrary, Wolpe ar- Wolpe makes what one could call a practical argument Age 75 7.1% December 2007 when they were considerably higher. The JNF projects in Israel. one to make a case for faith by quoting scripture. In so do- gues that the very concept of faith encompasses that huge on behalf of faith. He does not try to persuade by feats of news could not be worse. My only hope is that by the time So how does this work? A JNF charitable gift annuity ing, one has little chance of reaching few but the converted. and seemingly insurmountable question of “why?” Unlike logic as much as by common sense. He merely reasons you read this, circumstances will have changed and our is a simple agreement that offers our donors a lifetime in- To receive more information including a detailed illus- However, by referring to passages by Kant, Jung, Voltaire, Darwin who posits that our sole reason for existence is to that faith has the proven potential to improve the lives of dispositions will be a bit more positive. come in exchange for their gift. In addition to the income tration of how a JNF charitable gift annuity might benefit Francis Bacon, and T.S Eliot, Rabbi Wolpe is likely to get pass on our genes—a view Wolpe sees as nihilistic—religion both individuals and their communities. Put simply, that The Wall Street Journal article really caught my atten- there are valuable tax advantages such as tax-free income, you please call 800-562-7526 and speak with any of our the attention of an audience predisposed to otherwise ig- encourages us to seek, to ask, to think more deeply. This is is why it matters. tion. In an environment where retirement accounts are an income tax deduction, and the avoidance of lump sum Planned Giving specialists. We are ready to answer all of nore this type of discussion. not to say that Wolpe discredits the theory of evolution— Melanie Greenberg lives in New York, where she works as losing value and the choice is to take less or reduce ex- capital gains taxes if the donation is made with long-term your questions. Or visit www.jnf.org and click on "Planned Another way in which Wolpe’s book particularly caters he certainly does not. However, he argues that a belief in a freelance writer. She is currently working on a novel enti- penses, a good way to diversify the risk is to put money appreciated stocks or mutual funds. Our annuities can Giving." We look forward to hearing from you. to the non-believer is that he is able to share from the per- evolution does not necessarily require a belief that man tled “Good Deeds” based on her experiences in Cambodia. Jewish National Fund www.jnf.org 21 Or- Each ovrat-Scott Bauer Bauer ovrat-Scott D Desert, the scant amount England, China, Russia, and Today, a recycled water reservoir But this recycled water also sustains Israel’s agri- For example, at Moshav Lachish, located in the But today, instead of being forced to reduce has reservoir JNF a Kedma, Kibbutz at Similarly, “In 2002, agriculture in Kedma collapsed as a iracles in the Desert in the Miracles Using recycled waste water for agriculture — pro- new the like reservoirs by vided scarce Israel’s of more allows — Reservoir Memorial freshwater to be used for domestic consumption. economy. culture industry, a vital component of the heart of the arid Negev of freshwater available for agriculture held farm- past. years in output their expanding from back ers Because of quotas, they regularly ran out of water by August and their crops died by September. were small. chards produced low yields and profits their growing area by 40–50% to compensate for this lack of water, farmers at Moshav Lachish are year per grapes of tons 20,000 over produce to able which they export to South Africa, thanks to a JNF recycled water reservoir. Purified waste water from Jerusalem and Beit Shemesh travels 60 kilometers to Moshav Lachish, where it is used to irrigate 15 varieties of grapes as well as peaches, almonds, and pomegranates. dunam of orchard and vineyard receives an additional 200 cubic meters of water than it did when irrigated with freshwater, sup- increasing regular a has moshav The yields. the the of size and quality ply of grapes from May through January. literally rescued the agriculture industry. result of two drought years shortage,” and said Nir Canetti, a who is responsible severe for water maintenance supply water and operations reservoir and supervision. has allowed the kibbutz to increase its vegetable production by 4,000 dunams.

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t cial r Order unique JNF e he Church on the on Church The invi ou sp www.jnf.org/simcha or call 1-800-542-8733. y To learn more about the Simcha program, visit Dolores Bauer, the mother of the late Dr. Bauer was so Members of Members in Israel. – Scott Bauer Memorial Reservoir and JNF that he was grateful for the new reservoir. “This means that it is economically viable for growing corn, tomatoes us and other crops as well as animal to continue said. fodder,” he overwhelmed with emotion that she could not deliver her planned speech. “When I look out over the reservoir I feel she said. that I have come home,” 3 age age 5 p on - from ati Dedic voir e - from p aign updat After unveiling the large stone slab with the dedica- General Shimon Erem, founder and chairman of Israel Many of the visiting Christians were Hispanic - immi Eyal Kalifa, the general manager of Kibbutz Dovrat, something discover I time each Israel, to go I as often As In 1948, as the Jewish defenders of the Old City were As long as Israel exists, and as long as we visit her, we Camp from the kibbutz itself as well as surrounding industrial zones industrial surrounding as well as itself kibbutz the from of west miles 10 just is reservoir Dovrat The villages. Arab and which reservoir, freshwater largest Israel’s Galilee, of Sea the levels. rainfall, is at record low year’s disappointing after last tion to his father, Pastor Brian Bauer my father did, he did said, with passion, and he instilled in us a “Everything of fulfillment the represents project This Israel. for passion as sacred.” everything he valued the around churches 50,000 unites which Nexus, Christian world including the Church on the Way, emphasized that the reservoir was a milestone for his organization. “Until now Christian communities have contributed to various charities in Israel,” he observed. “But here in the Valley taken has church your Philistines, the fought David where on an entire project from start to finish and become part and parcel of Israel’s water infrastructure.” grants to the United States. Rev. Rodolfo Perez came to Los Angeles 25 years ago from Guatemala. “The culmina- tion of this project is a special moment for us,” stressed Rev. Perez. “Our love of Israel is also important because it is another thing that brings together the Hispanic immi- Christians.” grant community and American-born visitors Californian the told residents, 300 supports which new that reinforces the importance of our work. Recently the walk to time, first the for Olives of Mount the to went I ancient (and modern) Jewish cemetery and espy the Old City from the east. My guide was Chen Harkov, director of external relations for the Ir David Foundation, which is responsible for the unbelievable archeological digs due Achim,” “Kever to me took Chen Mount. Temple of south the communal “grave of our brothers (and sisters),” high on the mountain, and she told me this story: retreating, they were forced to leave behindburied bodies of the fallen. theWhen the IDF re-conquered hastily the Old City in 1967, one of its first tasks was to retrieve those bodies and rebury them in a communal plot on the Mount of Olives. Above the plot names areof the fallen.plaques Many of with these heroes the were children Jerusalem,foranddie to only Shoahsurvivedthe had who the names of their parents were unknown. Their plaques recordonly first name, last name, and date of death. And onemorething. The IDF did not exist 1948.in 1967,in So these children of the Shoah were posthumously inducted intothe IDF, and the military insignia graces each plaque on the grave. for- look I are. we who or did they what forget never will ward to seeing each of you in Israel this year. JNF Reser JNF AL Israeli national Israeli government era and an entourage entourage an and Vera Israel and the outside The mission of EL he aircraft landed with landed aircraft The Israel. Israel. Ltd., with the ir Base near Rehovot to a military a to Rehovot near Base Air eneva to Geneva eizmann, his wife his Weizmann, Airlines Israel By November of 1948, the new srael’s Ekron Ekron Israel’s was, and continues to be, to “secure and maintain a maintain and “secure to be, to continues and was, regular civil air link between world in times of peace and war.” holding 80% and the remaining 20% held by Jew- ish organizations in at Israel’s national anthem. band playing Hatikva, airline became incorporated under the AL name EL President that the aircraft could travel the 10-hour nonstop from flight Israeli Air Force Hebrew prophet Israeli viation Company” in Company” Aviation - bib the by inspired AL” The makeshift aircraft was ebrew with, most beautifully, the beautifully, most with, Hebrew sraeli National “Israeli and AL” Air Force as well. Meals were provided by a lo- Hurriedly, the plane was painted with the name and named the aircraft “EL aircraft the named and lical phrase from the book of the Hosea, meaning “to the above” or more poetically “to the skies.” “EL and English both Israeli flag on the tail. decorated with furniture borrowed from the Air Force and the volunteer in-flight crew was from the so fitted were tanks fuel Extra restaurant. kosher cal four-engine four-engine C-54 plane from the AL can be can AL In Septem- irlines today is today Airlines Israel AL Israel as an independent Vera from Switzerland in a Israeli government wanted to he birth and growth of EL of growth and birth The Israel’s national airline.

The establishment of First EL AL scheduled passenger flight (July 31–August 1, 1949) arrives at Orly Airport, Paris following a flight from Tel Aviv via Rome. one of the world’s most advanced and efficient air- international of story success ultimate the and lines aviation. civil mere vision in 1948, EL 1948, in vision mere A L AL & Israel of EL AL Years 60 directly tied to the dramatic and historical events the State of Israel. responsible for shaping to become ber of that year, the bring home its newly designated President Chaim Weizmann and his wife stately manner. So, government officials chose a state on May 14, 1948 paved the way for EL JNF's Major Donors www.jnf.org 23 Bob Wigoda (Herzl Soci- (Herzl Bob Wigoda Natan with hands ety) shook the 2008 National at Sharansky AZ. in Phoenix, Conference City Kansas for JNF chairperson husband her and Glueck Miriam their with Robert Sderot visited during Jessi and Katie daughters (L-R) in Israel. vacation a family the Robert on and Glueck Jessi Sderot. to train (Century Resnick Club), Josh the general of chair national Sharansky Natan with campaign, the JNF National in Phoenix at Conference. - Midwest Zone Midwest (L-R) Chicago regional president president regional Chicago (L-R) Coun- Schreiber (President’s Scott Deerfield of Golant cil) Scott with poker Nights” “Negev JNF’s at tournament. speaker Micah Keynote (L–R) Attorney year’s last with Halpern - Louise Roselle (Sap the Year, of Society) husband, her phire and the 2008 Attorney of hosts Gary, Al honoring event the Year of Gerhardstein.

Boston president Larry Cohen Laurie Hall (Century and Club) a with presented were (center) $100,000 surprise donation in of honor their marriage. Ronald Zone England New and S. Lauder director Freedman Sharon joined them in celebration in Be’er Israel. Sheva, CohenHarvey (Century Club, Council), past President’s Karen Ohio Southern of president President’s Cohen (Century Club, Society), past Sapphire Council, Dick recipient Award Life of Tree at Vigran Chessie and Weiland, dinner. the award - Sap multi-generational of a group Wisconsin, of family Komisar The Society JNF. within members Sapphire of family the largest is phires, Recreation Indoor the Sderot to been designated have funds Family Society), Komisar Claire (Sapphire Komisar Maureen (L-R) Center. Mar Schatz, Noah son Maureen’s Komisar, Society), Morton (Sapphire Randi Society), Goldstein, Susan (Sapphire Komisar Gail tin Komisar, Society), Eric Schacter. and (Sapphire Komisar - Richard Noone (Herzl Society), (Herzl Noone Richard campaign and Hefez Nathan Nagle, Brian Hefez, Sara executive - BNY/Mel of Graham Vicary and the at Management Wealth lon 60th Anniver Israel’s of Consul sary Gala. (left), grandson Eli Wieberdink - in Minne JNF chairperson of a presented Lisa Heilicher, apolis director Zone Midwest to check used which was to Krosnick Rick camp to Sderot send from a child Israel” for “Mom’s JNF’s during campaign. - - Sap inaugurated Newly (L-R) phire Society president Amy Mar ambassador former Parsons, tin Indyk, Boston president Larry Cohen (Century Club), New England Consul Yedidia, Rony Patkin Todd campaign VP of and Council) at Chairman’s (World Society 2009 Sapphire Boston’s event. kick-off J. Susan the Honorable M. Chesley, Stanley president honorees JNF national (L-R) and Voinovich, Janet Voinovich, V. George Senator U.S. Dlott, Award Life of Tree Region’s Ohio Southern the at Barrett John and Eileen humanitarian outstanding their for honored were Barretts The Dinner. Cincinnati. in efforts - New England Zone England New Mr. and Mrs. Ralph White (Cen- Ralph White Mrs. and Mr. Chapter the Boston tury of Club), Civil Ser Jewish the National of received Inc., vice Employees (Res.) Colonel from a plaque their for (left) Davidovich Sharon generosity and Israel to dedication a much- in collecting $100,000 for Israel. neededtruck in fire and president Broward (L-R) - Becky (Sap Fischer chair Makor Society), phire regional Chicago Harold and Kruger, Rick director the (Century at Club) Kaplan Conference. National the attend to Israel to Council) traveled (President’s Weisberg Mort While Shafran. Illana to Mandel Josh Representative Ohio of wedding at in a dedication in participating friends his pride took and Mort there Debra Kolsly, Alan Sharpe, Debra (L-R) Park. Independence American Clos. Kimberly and Weisberg, Mort Sinkle Kolsy,

Lew Schepps (World Chairman's Chairman's Lew (World Schepps “Gateway his dedicated Council) in Be’er project the Negev” to while theSheva President’s on Council Mission. (L-R) Dinner co-chairs Dr. Ira and June June and Ira Dr. co-chairs Dinner (L-R) of Tree and Courtney Brogan Gelb, President FAU co-honoree Award Life and co-chair dinner Brogan, Frank (Herzl Stayman Debbie member board Myron Society), co-chair dinner and Society) the Broward (Herzl at Stayman the Design at Dinner Award Life of Tree the Americas. of Center Zimmerman (President’s Michael Beach Palm Council) South with chair education and member board (Sapphire Shapiro Elaine Cantor at Council) President’s Society, in Conference the JNF National Phoenix, AZ. (L-R) Florida Zone Women’s Cam- Women’s Zone Florida (L-R) Ida member board and paign chair Society), Chernin (Sapphire Raye Betsy co-president Bay Tampa Society), JNF (Sapphire Marcadis Beth Glickman executive campaign - co-presi Bay Tampa and Morris, at Society) (Herzl Miller Mark dent meeting. board executive an president board Broward (L-R) Beckie chair Fischer Makor and Society) co- dinner with (Sapphire Debbie member board and chair Society) the (Herzl at Stayman Dinner. Life of Tree Broward JNF’s of one Wilshinsky, Andrew members, Club Century youngest the during Israel in tree a planted Mission. Council President’s recent Florida Zone South Palm Beach board member member board Beach Palm South Club) (Century Teitelbaum Marty (Century Teitelbaum Shelley and Life of Tree Broward the at Club) Dinner. and co-chair Alliance Women’s Amdur Shirley member NY board NY board (Century and Club) (Cen- Wechsler Michael treasurer Alliance a Women’s tury at Club) home. the Amdur at reception Zone greater New York

Irv and Muriel Berzon (Century Irv Muriel and at a dedication attended Club) and Park Independence American during projects JNF water visited in Israel. their stay

(L-R) Dinner co-chair Myron Myron co-chair Dinner (L-R) Society) (Herzl with Stayman J. Alan co-honoree Life of Tree Great CEO of and president Levy, the Broward at Farms, American Dinner. Life of Tree Beach member Palm board (L-R) (Century Club, Wiseman Marian Society), Broward Sapphire Beckie Fischer president board Society), Chicago and (Sapphire at Kruger Rick director regional Conference. National JNF’s (L-R) Michael Weinstock (Herzl (Herzl Weinstock Michael (L-R) at Society) a student with visited - Envi for Institute the Arava his during Studies ronmental Ride in the Israel on participation November. - t with (L-R) Carolyn Marcus, dinner co- dinner Marcus, Carolyn (L-R) Debbie member board and chair Society), (Herzl dinner Stayman (Herzl Stayman Myron co-chair president board Society), Broward Beckie chair Fischer Makor and Society) Joshua son and (Sapphire Life of Tree the Broward at Traub Dinner. Natan Sharansky signedSharansky Natan his new Confer the JNF National book at ence in Phoenix, AZ North for Green (Sapphire Carolinians Lyn Society) and Michael Green Council). (President’s Abou t & u O rs no r Do o s Maj JNF' Southern Zone (L-R) Palm Beach board president Irving Wiseman (Century Club), Irving Wiseman Beach president Palm board (L-R) - Sha Elaine Cantor chair education and Beach member board Palm South member board Beach Palm Council), President’s Society, (Sapphire piro Beach Society), Palm and Sapphire (Century Club, Wiseman Marian the National Miller at Elaine co-chair education and member board Conference. - co-pres regional Southeast (L-R) ident Lauren (Sapphire Mescon Campaign Society) and Women’s Dickmanchair Janis (Sapphire Society) the the portion of visited Sheva adoptedRiver by Park Be’er the Southeast during the Queen of Sheba Mission to Israel. (Century Soble Florence (L-R) Beach Palm South and Club) Soble Stephen member board Broward the at Club) (Century Dinner. Life of Tree

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JNF's Major Donors 22 JNF's Major Donors www.jnf.org 25 (L-R) JNF NJ regional director director JNF NJ regional (L-R) Northeast Robins, Norton Lynn Bob Benedon president Zone Susan Council), and (President’s NJ of Bass Levin, commissioner Affairs. Community of Dept. Society), (Sapphire Binsky Evelyn Springs the Palm of vice chair Itai welcomed Council, Advisory and Springs Palm to Freeman Desert Area. - Educa and Advocacy Israel (L-R) Bob Levine chair tion (World President’s Council, Chairman’s Society chair Council), Sapphire - Sap (CenturyGeri Club, Shatz Levine Society), Helen phire and - Presi Council, Chairman’s (World, Society) at Sapphire Council, dent’s Dinner. Life of the NJ Tree - sup of JNF generations Three in the Goodmanporters family Democ - for the Caravan attended 7. September on racy breakfast member board Executive (L-R) Goodman (Century Jeff Club), Goodman (Century Club) Jack Goodman, a plaque with Josh and 90th birthday. Jack’s of in honor Craig and Tuttleman Jan of the home at gathered JNF supporters for Institute partners, the Arava JNF’s of one Lambert about hear to Kammon Hadas students Institute Arava (L-R) Studies. Environmental (President’s Tuttleman Lambert, Craig Jan A. Halasah, Suleiman and Arava Feldman, Batsheva director community Diego Council), San Joni president regional Diego San and Lehrer, David director Institute Society). (Sapphire Steinman (L-R) Jonathan Halevy and Rick Rick Halevy and Jonathan (L-R) (President’s Forman Donna and Concert. the Moshav Council) at OC- cam Nachman, Ayelet (L-R) Inga presented paign executive, Sapphire Behr (Century Club, Society) in memory a plaque with husband. her of Scheiner (Century Club) Steve Arizona the a gift accepted from his for directors of board Region service four of and JNF years to 15 president. board as years Makor member Edgar House House Edgar member Makor Society) the guest (Herzl JNF was concert. the Moshav speaker at (Century Lance Sieger Club) Dr. Dr. OC president and regional (CenturyRochelle Sieger Club, Society) JNF visited Sapphire President’s the after projects in October, Council Mission River Sheva the Be’er including - Rehabilita Negev Aleh and Park in Ofakim. Village tive Executive board member Dr. Dr. member board Executive and (Century Club) Pflaum Peter member board County Orange Society) at Dyer (Sapphire Hazel a new Am, community Merchav they where visited in the Negev, in memory named the synagogue and Leontine parents, Peter’s of Alfred Pflaum. home annual the second Society enjoyed members Sapphire Arizona for Campaign Women’s Ford, Carol Dr. (L-R) AZ. Valley, Paradise in tour Shifris, Cookie Tzour, Tali speaker guest Eisenberg, Natalie chair Israel Spillman. Sharyn and Kort, Elaine Richter, Valerie (L-R)VP of campaign Chuck Fax Fax Chuck campaign of (L-R)VP Coun- President’s (Century Club, president Zone cil), Northeast Coun- Bob Benedon (President’s Evelyn member Makor cil), and President’s (Century Club, Spritz Society) the at Sapphire Council, Conference. Zone Northeast estern Zone On a VIP mission to Israel, Israel, to On a VIP mission Dr. and Fisher Alan donors major (Century Sommer Barbara Club, a Council) received President's emissary Amir Israel from plaque of in recognition (right) Halevi De- for Caravan for their support mocracy School Edition. High Burton members Century club Shifris and Don Kruglick (left) the Burton presented (right) Dr. to Award Kruglick Campaign Life of 2008 Tree Seymour Rife, recipient. Award - mem Makor and Leibowitz Joel (Century Club, Spritz ber Evelyn Sapphire Council, President’s Zone Society) the Northeast at Conference. w (L-R) Major Gifts chair Ellen chair Gifts Major (L-R) Society), Rosenberg (Sapphire Susan chair Alliance Women’s Society) and Levene (Sapphire Israel for Campaign Women’s (Century Club, Gur Amy chair Society). Sapphire (L-R) Northeast Zone president and member Makor Bob Benedon Council),(President’s JNF executive director of finance president County Bucks Bach, and Stephen and Makor member Edgar House (Herzl Society) at the Northeast Conference. Zone (L-R) Executive committee committee Executive (L-R) Igersheim Adele and Roy members good with Council) (President’s (President’s Stein Rita friends Dr. and Society) Sapphire Council, Council), (President’s Stein Chester Council. President’s DC’s of chair (L-R) Executive Committee Committee Executive (L-R) - Fish Sara and Nelson members Council) with (President’s man president Maryland regional Society) (Herzl Fishman Jonathan Gail. wife his and the of chair Zone Northeast Israel for Campaign Women’s Society) (Sapphire Louise Dabrow the at Sharansky Natan with Conference. National (L-R) Delaware regional president president regional Delaware (L-R) Jerome member Makor and (Century with Club) Grossman and president Zone Mid-Atlantic Margules David member Makor (Century Club). - mem committee Executive (L-R) ber Cohen (Century Louis Club), (Century Raffel Lorraine Earl and Zone Mid-Atlantic and Club) member Makor and president (Century Club). Margules David NJ board Northern (L-R) - (Presi Barry Honig president Ben Council), Gisele Dor dent’s Society), Sapphire (Century Club, Tzour, emissary Tali JNF Israel Society) (Herzl Allison Mangot Eli Benand (Century Dor Club) in Conference National JNF’s at Phoenix, AZ. tlantic Zone Atlantic Mid- - mem board County Bucks (L-R) Society), (Herzl Moss ber Michael - Rich member board Philadelphia Society), Gering (Herzl and ard president board County Bucks House Edgar member Makor and Society).(Herzl Council), Chairman’s (World Mower Morton VP Dr. JNF national (L-R) Society), Sapphire Council, Chairman’s (World Mower VP Toby national (Century Club), Bernard Kapiloff Dr. member committee executive Hillchair Society),Ammunition Sapphire (Century Club, Kapiloff Lynn Amy chair Israel for Campaign Women’s (Century and Club), Gur Mota Society). Sapphire (Century Club, Gur The MarylandThe Region heldits installationofofficers and event Mid- (L-R) president. the new as regional Fishman Jonathan welcomed ZoneAtlantic president and memberMakor David Margules (Century & regions zones VP of national and chair Zone Mid-Atlantic Club), Jonathan president Klein (CenturyAndrew Maryland regional Club), Cohen Steve president past Society), immediate (Herzl and Fishman Council). (President’s Louise- Dab Leibowitz, Joel (L-R) Sapphire Council, (President’s row Evelyn member Society), Makor President’s (Century Club, Spritz Society) and Sapphire Council, trustees- mem of board national (Century Club, ber Dabrow Alan the board Council) at President’s installation. Dr. Robert Lichtenstein (Century Robert Lichtenstein Dr. his for a plaque received Club) the to $100,000 contribution Major (L-R) Livnim Reservoir. Robert Bud Levin,chair Dr. Gifts friend, his Ozzie and Lichtenstein, Silna. Northeast Zone (L-R) Dr. Samuel and Marlene Marlene and Samuel Dr. (L-R) (Century Major Club), Halperin IDF General Gantz, Benjamin Canada, and the U.S. to attaché Baruch Fellner DC president Karen Council), and (President’s - Sap Council, (President’s Fellner donors Society) a major phire at in DC. reception you thank (President’s Zuritsky Rob (L-R) Joe member Makor Council) and Society) the (Herzl at Wolfson County Bucks and Philadelphia Beat Street at installation board PA. in Manayunk, Station

- Presi Larry (Century Club, Russ father, his Council)and dent's for the plaque unveiled Roman City The project, their family’s - Ammuni at Line amphitheatre in Jerusalem. Hill tion Zone os Angeles l

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jnf's Major Donors 24 frontline was fortified and reinforced during the course of Did you receive this issue at an old address? Know Israel Beyond the Guide Book 19 years – from the 1948 War of Independence until the any alumni who didn’t receive it at all? Visit our Refer a Friend, Receive a Trip! 1967 Six-Day War. During those years, the Jewish citizens A Must-See Tourist Attraction website at www.amiie.org to update your contact of Jerusalem lived in the shadow of the Jordanian military information so we can stay in touch. For enrolling applicants: in and you are taken back in time. The story of Jerusalem positions under the constant threat of enemy infiltration. For each enrolled participant that you refer to is told in a whole new way. This military alignment collapsed during the Six-Day THE ALEXANDER MUSS INSTITUTE FOR ISRAEL EDUCATION (AMIIE) WORKS TO PROVIDE A SUPERIOR AMHSI you will receive $100 off your tuition. The City-Line amphitheatre is an exciting hi-tech sound War, when the IDF captured Ammunition Hill after a bit- EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE IN ISRAEL TO LEARNERS OF ALL AGES FROM COMMUNITIES THROUGH- That’s right, earn money for having your friends and light display that just opened at Ammunition Hill. It ter and tough battle in which 182 IDF soldiers were killed. OUT NORTH AMERICA AND ABROAD. AMIIE PROMOTES, BUILDS AND STRENGTHENS LIFELONG BONDS join you for the experience of a lifetime! Refer as presents the story of the five-mile-long line that divided Israel destroyed the entire demarcation line after the war, BETWEEN JEWS AND ISRAEL THROUGH EDUCATION, EXPERIENCES AND UNDERSTANDING. many friends as you like to any session – there is Jerusalem between 1948 and 1967, and concentrates on the but left Ammunition Hill standing as a memorial site. no limit to how much you can earn toward your battles along it during the Six-Day War that led to the his- Today the best way for future generations of Israelis and

Tr av e l t o Isr a own tuition! toric reunification of the city. tourists alike to hear about and relate to life under a di- The model was designed and built by the directors of vided Jerusalem is the Jerusalem City-Line model. Dear AMHSI Alumni For all alumni: Ammunition Hill, thanks to a generous donation by Larry Larry and Sunny Russ became involved with JNF about If you refer five friends to AMHSI, you will receive The City-Line model at Ammunition Hill Jordana Wachtel, Alumni Relations and Resource Development Coordinator tells the story of life in a divided Jerusalem. Russ of Los Angeles, CA and with the help of Jewish Na- five years ago. Together with his survivor parents, Roman a FREE trip to Israel! It's as simple as that. Hurry tional Fund. and Ida Russ, they committed themselves to getting the s the Alumni Relations and Resource or you can send us their info and we’ll contact them. This before this promotion ends!

Israel might be about the size of New Jersey, but within Together with his wife Sunny, his father Roman, and City-Line project built. Development Coordinator, I am very information is essential in maintaining our network and Am ii e A *Offer valid only to AMHSI participants; NOT Day that small country is a wealth of exciting things to see brother Isi, Russ was in Israel recently to unveil and dedi- “My uncle Shimon escaped Poland to compete in the excited to be your connection to AMIIE directory. Please help us reconnect. School or community group participants. and places to visit. Even if you’ve been to Israel 20 times, cate the project. “It was a very moving, touching ceremony,” Maccabee games in 1931,” said Russ. “Shimon taught me and its flagship program, AMHSI. The Finally, if you are looking for volunteer experiences there is always something new to discover. Make sure said Russ. “I was overwhelmed by how beautifully the proj- to be a Zionist and he raised a family in Jerusalem who organization and the school are both or would just like to get involved, there are opportuni- 26 your next trip includes a stop at the historic Ammunition ect was carried out. It exceeded our expectations and I am helped build and protect Israel when life was very chal- continuing to excel and expand and you ties around the country for you to support recruitment 27

www.jnf.org Hill in Jerusalem. confident it will prove to be a significant educational tool lenging and difficult. This project just seemed to click with should be proud to be part of the alumni in your area or to Israel Hi-Tech Computer & www.jnf.org When you sit down in the museum's new amphithe- that will finally tell the story of Jerusalem in a way that both all of us as a way to honor our brave Israeli cousins as well family of more than 19,000! As a “family,” the organization and plan a reunion and atre, the 3-D model before you is somewhat nondescript. kids and adults will understand and hold on to.” as the many relatives my parents lost in the Shoah.” we want to hear from you — whether you’re graduating other alumni events, Adventure Summer Program You can tell it’s the architecture of Jerusalem but beyond The Jerusalem Demarcation Line is a five-mile sec- The Ammunition Hill site incorporates a museum, a from college, starting a new career, getting married, having school are continuing maybe even join the that, it looks, well, plain. tion of the border that divided the full length of Jerusalem computerized data center, a library, an archive, an exhibi- a baby, or any other exciting news or milestones — share it to excel and expand local AMHSI board. June 28th - July 27th, 2009 Then the room darkens, the movie begins, colorful la- with dozens of fortified positions, bunkers, barbed wires tion hall, and a center for assemblies and conferences. It is with us. The alumni section on our website (www.amiie.org) Contact your local di- sers light up the model, the surround sound system kicks and minefields built by the Jordanian Army. This military a must-see stop for visitors to Jerusalem. features many of these announcements and alumni accom- rector of admissions Discover Israel and learn information, plishments. Check it out to read about your quinmates (see “Contact Us” on the website) to find out more infor- communication and computing technologies with and to share your news with them too. You can email us mation, including when one of your past teachers may be AMIIE and The Israeli Youth Computer Movement. news and photos at [email protected]. at an event in your area. This is a unique 4-week hi-tech program in Israel · JEWISH NATIONAL FUND · Speaking of email addresses, when was the last time you We look forward to hearing from you soon! Stay for high school students entering their freshman updated your AMHSI record? In the same alumni section tuned for news on a second AMHSI campus, our first or sophomore year. The Israeli Youth Computer JNF Travel & Tours on the website, update your contact information so that we AMHSI alumni trip (email [email protected] if you are Movement, with 18 years of experience, teaches The way to say,“I believe in Israel!” can stay in touch with you about news, events, and more. interested in participating), and other exciting updates! computing technologies in an environment of Also, we need your help in locating lost alumni! Encour- Wishing you the very best on behalf of the faculty, staff, innovation, creativity, and start-up thinking, all age your AMHSI friends to update their information as well, and students at AMIIE. while showing you the beauty and history of Israel. Upcoming Missions Design Websites, Create Video Games, Learn Programming, YOUNG PROFESSIONALS MISSION Produce Multimedia Movies & Videos, Master Animation & 3D February 15–21, 2009 + 4 day Eilat extension Programs & Tours AMHSI: A Family Affair Graphics, Explore Integrated Start-up Projects, Hike the Golan By Arielle Tamir Heights, Swim in the Mediterranean Sea, Go Rafting in the MAKOR MISSION KKL International Bike Mission: March 20–29, 2009 Jordan River, Ride Camels in the Desert, and much more... March 4–12, 2009 (Makor members only) CAARI Program: January 14–March 4, 2009 (2–8 week options) I am sure it was predestined from the time I was in the womb that I would go on the Alexander Muss High School Sign up now! Space is limited. Alternative Spring Break Taste of Israel Tour: March 1–19, 2009 & October 18–26, 2009 March 7–29, 2009 in Israel program. My mom had told me about it for as long as I can remember; she is an alum and so is my older sister. Come with me to Israel Mission So of course I thought I’d never enjoy it. Little did I know March 22–April 1, 2009 how much I would fall in love with it. Make a donation today! PRIVATE TOURS: From the first day’s ice breaker (literally, we broke ice!) PRIDE OF ISRAEL MISSION Private Family Trips: Unique and personalized itineraries that are customized to suit every family to the last tear shed together at the Kotel, I knew my class- April 19–26, 2009 • Join the Werner Society and help fund the FAMILY TRAVEL: mates would become my lifelong friends. That’s because difference between the price of tuition and the FUTURE OF ISRAEL MISSION JNF B’nai Mitzvah & Generations Tour (2009 dates coming soon!) together, we experienced 4,000 years of Israeli history as actual cost of educating an AMHSI student– May 6–19, 2009 well as modern Israeli life. WEEKLY TOURS $1,200 a year. Together, we discovered deliciously fattening schnitzel QUEEN OF SHEBA WOMEN’S MISSION Jewish Heritage Tour (with optional Eilat & Petra extension) • Join the Alumni Society and pave the way for in a pita, pargiot in a pita, and pizza… in a pita. Togeth- May 11–20, 2009 Grand Jewish Heritage Tour Ultimate Israel Tour future alumni –$1,800 payable over three years. er, we laughed at our teacher Yossi’s jokes; together, we Arielle Tamir (Summer ‘08) and her sister, Danielle Tamir (Summer ‘05) • Want to sponsor a classroom, dorm, or garden? PHOENIX REGIONAL MISSION cried on top of Masada declaring “Sheinit Masada lo ti- Check out www.amiie.org or contact the AMIIE October 14–22, 2009 pol” (another Masada won’t fall!); and together we shared er be broken. I thank Yossi Katz and the Alexander Muss For more info: Call: (877) JNF-TOUR · E-mail: [email protected] · Website: www.jnf.org/travel office for other giving opportunities! a connection with a country so small yet so strong. The High School in Israel for giving me a summer I will never bonds we formed, with our friends and our land, will nev- forget and a future I can’t wait to begin! Xf!dboÖu!xbju!gps!njsbdmft/

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