BYachad Summer 2012

Together
BYachad: The Newsletter of Jewish National Fund
www.jnf.org
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JNF:
YOUR
VOICE
IN ISRAEL
Address service requested
E-mail us at newsletter@jnf.org
B'Yachad 42 East 69th Street
New York, NY 10021-5093
The Bala family, residents of the Negev community of Zuqim, which JNF helped build.
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Dear Reader,
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
As one of the most innovative philanthropic organizations in the U.S., JNF is proud to showcase our
new look and feel. As you read through these pages please notice our tweaked logo, bolder colors,
exciting fonts, and more emotional language and photography. JNF truly is Your Voice in Israel.
This repositioning of JNF is the culmination of months of research, focus groups, surveys,
and interviews with lay leaders, staff, donors, and non-donors of all agesall of which gave
us a real understanding of how our mission and vision are perceived across key audiences and
how to boldly lead this organization deeper into the 21st century.
As we look to our 2013 campaign, we want to highlight how Your Voice in Israel is being
heard through JNFs work. Our centerfold map gives a comprehensive picture of JNFs
projects from north to south, and pages 18-23 illustrate JNFs tangible effect on the land and
people of Israelfrom the new communities that are flourishing thanks to JNFs support to the
JNF-funded R&D stations helping farmers improve their growing and export possibilities.
JNFs strong, clear, unified brand identity is being conveyed in everything we do. Help us
spread the word about JNFYour Voice in Israel.
We hope you enjoy this issue. Send your feedback to newsletter@jnf.org.
12 JLIM/The Summit
This summer, 21 of JNFs young leaders were selected to attend the

JNFuture Leadership Institute Mission to Israel. In 2013, the next
generation of leaders will gather in Red Rock, NV for a one-of-a-kind twoday summit focused on sustainability of water, food and energy.
14 Road to Jerusalem
To commemorate the 45th anniversary of the reunification of Jerusalem,

JNF led 120 participants on an exclusive tour of the land of Israel,
complete with VIP seats at the Yom Yerushalayim ceremony with Prime
\ Minister Netanyahu.

16-17 Map of JNF Projects
JNFs work encompasses all aspects of daily life in Israel. See how our
program areas cover the map and touch the lives of all Israels residents.
18-23 Your Voice in Israel
BYACHAD STAFF
EDITOR IN CHIEF: Ariel Vered
PUBLISHER: Russell F. Robinson
EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Jodi Bodner
MANAGING EDITOR: Sarit Schonbrun
CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Sherene Strausberg
JNF gives all generations of Jews a unique voice in building a prosperous

future for the land of Israel and its people. Learn how our work is
helping Israels youth, farmers, new communities, and much more.
24 Nefesh BNefesh
JNF announced a new partnership with Nefesh BNefesh, which helps new
olim through all the stages of the aliyah process.
JEWISH NATIONAL FUND (JNF) began in 1901 as a dream and vision to reestablish a homeland in Israel
Correction: Please note that in our last issue, in Campaign All-Star on page 5, Larry
Cohen was mistakenly identified as a real estate lawyer. He is an estate lawyer.
for Jewish people everywhere. Jews the world over collected coins in iconic JNF Blue Boxes, purchasing
land and planting trees until ultimately, their dream of a Jewish homeland was a reality. Today, JNF
continues to give all generations a unique voice in building and ensuring the prosperity of the land of Israel
through their generosity and partnership with the people of Israel.
WINNER OF THE AJPA ROCKOWER

AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN
ORGANIZATIONAL NEWSLETTERS
JNF embodies both heart and action; our work is varied in scope but singular in benefit. We strive to
bring an enhanced quality of life to all of Israels residents, and translate these advancements to the
world beyond. JNF is greening the desert with millions of trees, building thousands of parks, creating new
communities and cities for generations of Israelis to call home, bolstering Israels water supply, helping
develop innovative arid-agriculture techniques, and educating both young and old about the founding and
importance of Israel and Zionism.
COVER PHOTO CREDIT: DANNY HADAS

Printed on recycled paper with
vegetable-based ink
facebook.com/jewishnationalfund
twitter.com/jnfusa
JNF is a registered 501(c)(3) organization and United Nations NGO, which continuously earns top ratings
from charity overseers. For more information on JNF, call 888.JNF.0099 or visit jnf.org.
A MESSAGE FROM
OUR PRESIDENT
STANLEY M. CHESLEY
250 multinational corporations invest in Israeli water and energy
JNFS MEASURE
OF SUCCESS
companies, including Google, IBM, Motorola and Apple.

Israeli companies hold
30% of the global desalination market and
JNFs
222 reservoirs store 67% of Israels recycled water.
By 2030, Israel will need to double its storage capacity for treated
wastewater, at a cost of
$280 million in reservoir construction.
The Shafdan, Israels largest and most complex wastewater treatment

plant, is also the most advanced in the Middle East and was chosen by the
UN as one of 30 projects from around the world that demonstrates the ability
of local authorities to deal with environmental problems. It services
municipalities with a total of
2.5 million
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people. Its treated water
is injected into an aquifer where it is kept for 300 days, emerging at a

quality close to drinking level.
In central Israel alone,
In
225 wells have been disqualified due to pollution.
1966, Israel had already established a pilot desalination program.
Israel has achieved the worlds highest production efficacy per water
unit. Even in open fields, Israel has achieved
88-92% irrigation
efficiency. It was recognized as a world leader by the United Nations

Food and Agriculture Organization and the Organization for Economic
Cooperation and Development.
In 20 years, the Middle Easts need for water resources will increase
by
40-45%. n
To learn about JNFs work with water in Israel, visit jnf.org/water
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78% of the water in Israel is recycled and reusedthe highest rate in

the world. Spain is second at 17% and the U.S. only reuses 1%.
JEWISH NATIONAL FUND
50% of the water purification field.
There are those who measure

success in projects completed
and in dollars raised. While those
line items are important at JNF,
that is not how we, the premier
organization that builds a prosperous
future for the land and people
of Israel, measure success. JNFs
ultimate barometer of success is
the lives we touchboth in the U.S.
and Israel.
A few years ago, before the
Pipes Bridge was built in Beer Sheva, before ground was broken on
the amphitheater and the lake, before the private sector had begun to
invest millions in new residential housing and malls as a result of our seed
money, before we had won the 2012 Beer Sheva Lifetime Achievement
Award in recognition of our commitment to the development of the
Negev and Beer Sheva as part of our Blueprint Negev campaign, I was
walking along the newly constructed promenades with Itai Freeman,
Beer Sheva River Park Project Director. He was explaining to me what
we had done, how the park was being irrigated, and what it had taken to
clean the riverbed, move the earth and get the project going, gesturing
as he was pointing things out to me. It was clear we were talking about
the citys progress. A cab driver stopped his car and asked if we were
the ones responsible for the changes. When we said yes, the smile that
broke across his face is an image I will remember always. Thank you so
much, he said. You have no idea what a difference it is making in our
lives. We cant wait to see whats next.
That gratitude, mixed with pride for their homeland, is a sentiment
echoed throughout the country when it comes to what JNF has done that is
making a difference. No words can express the excitement and gratitude
of our members, said Hillel Tobias, CEO of Kibbutz Yahel, in reference
to JNFs donations that are enabling them to expand their kibbutz in
the southern Arava [see pg. 5]. That expansion along with Park Yahel, a
five-acre tourist complex at the entrance to the kibbutz funded by Jack
Freeman, will make an incomparable change in the region and create 89
new jobs. Every day, were making tangible differences in the lives of
Israels residents. All thanks to you. JNF is Your Voice in Israel.
In the U.S., talk to any Alexander Muss High School in Israel alum,
Birthright or Alternative Winter/Spring Break participant, and you will
see a life transformed. There is something magical about these Zionist
experiences that puts Israel front and center in their lives. Many go on
to become leaders in the Jewish community, some even make aliyah. We
did that, you did that. JNF is Your Voice in Israel.
Recently, I was at a meeting to plan our 2013 campaign. More than
50 lay leaders were in attendance, some who interrupted their summer
vacation to be there. Listening to them speak, it was the difference that
JNF has made in their lives that really struck me. They fundraise, run
events, speak publicly, and take time away from their professional lives
to travel to Israel with us. All are passionately, deeply devoted to Israel
and the organization, and determined to spread the word.
To me, Jewish National Fund is the now organization. Thanks to a
combination of terrific lay leaders and professional staff we get things
done, and because of what we do, others follow. Take part. JNF is truly
Your Voice in Israel. Make it heard.
ANYWHERE ELSE Mohel Plants a Tree for Every Bris

THIS WOULD JUST SINCE 2003, DR. STEVEN
BE A TREE.
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BUT THESE ARE YOUR ROOTS

IN THE HOLY LAND
Adashek
has donated more than 1,200 trees
to Israel through JNF. What makes this
contribution even more remarkable
than simply the sheer number of trees
itself is that Adashek, a Baltimorebased obstetrician and gynecologist, is a
certified mohel who donates a tree for
every bris (circumcision) he performs.
Its Jewish tradition to give back,
Adashek explained, and this way Im
not only giving back to Israel, but also
in the name of the child. It is a physical
manifestation, a tree, and it connects the
child to Israel.
Adashek, a member of JNFs Doctors
for Israel Society, discovered a deeper
connection to Israel while on a bar
mitzvah tour with his son in 2005. It was
the doctors first visit to Israel, and as he
recalled, from the moment I stepped off
the plane, and for the two weeks I was
there, I felt like I belonged. It was an
unbelievable feeling. Seeing an arid
country turning green with life was
transformational.
His time in Israel solidified his
commitment to Israel and the work that
JNF stands for.
Im a firm believer in having a place
for the Jewish people, in having a home,
he said. The Jewish people are spread
out all over the world, but having Israel
means we have a place to call ours
Plant a tree with your own hands at the Harvey Hertz-JNF Ceremonial
Tree Planting Center at Neot Kedumim, the worlds only biblical
landscape reserve. Sign up at jnf.org/treeplanting
Be part of the time-honored tradition of planting a tree to honor or
memorialize a loved one. Plant trees for all occasions:
Birthdays Holidays Bar/Bat Mitzvahs
Births Weddings Anniversaries In Memory
Retirement Graduation Housewarming
To learn more, visit jnf.org/store

or call 800-542-TREE
Open an E-Z Tree account and save up to 50%.
Visit jnf.org/ez for more information.
Dr. Steven Adashek performing a bris.
Dr. Steven Adashek planting a tree in Israel.
a place we need to make green and

thrive This is a part of our responsibility as
a People.
For young parents new to tzedakah and
searching for the right place to give, Dr.
Adashek offered this advice: Planting
a tree, or creating a building or a park,
these are visible and physical projects
to which you can point and know exactly
how youve helped the land and people
of Israel.
This is why I am involved with JNF, he
continued. I feel that JNF understands
that Israel is ours and in turn that it is our
responsibility to make it a self-sufficient
and thriving state. n
For information about JNFs Doctors for

Israel visit jnf.org/doctorsforisrael
Community Expansion at Kibbutz Yahel

FOR THE FIRST TIME
MARC KELMAN, VP, CAMPAIGN
Campaign All-Star: Bob Dubin

Bob is an amazing leader and motivator, said
to tour JNF project sites and bring back updates Berkovitz. He has been extremely successful
and stories to the Las Vegas Board of Directors and in every position he has held with JNF, as well
the community at large. Dubin has served as JNF as being successful in business outside of
Las Vegas Board President for the past three years the organization.
Dubin has been a CPA for more than 40 years
and has been deeply involved with the organization
for a decade. Its his passion for JNFs work and the and is licensed by the US Department of the
positive effect it has on Israel that keeps bringing Treasury. A graduate of the University of Southern
him back and that has earned him the title of California with a Bachelor of Science degree in
accounting, he has a general accounting and
Campaign All-Star.
income tax practice in Las
Bob truly believes that JNF
Vegas. Up until last year,
is Israel, said JNF Director of
Dubin also served as the
Nevada Judy Berkovitz. He is an
President
of
the
Nevada
extremely passionate individual
Society of Enrolled Agents
who devotes countless hours to
Southern Chapter.
JNFs cause, not for recognition,
Bob Dubin is truly a star in
but for his own conviction and
the JNF world, said National
love for the work being done.
Campaign Director Diane Scar.
A prominent member of the Las
Bob has a commitment to JNF
Vegas community, Dubin is also
and Israel which is unmatched.
part of JNFs Makor group, an
Bob with his wife Shelley
He always makes time for
elite leadership, solicitation and
training group comprised of volunteers who travel JNF, whether its making calls, educating the
across the country to speak about JNFs work for community, speaking at synagogue events, or just
always ensuring that JNF is at the forefront of the
the land and people of Israel.
In addition to serving as the Las Vegas Board Las Vegas Jewish community. It is truly an honor
President, Dubin is also the National Assistant VP to be working with a person like Bob Dubin who
of Planned Giving. Prior to becoming President, he demonstrates such a high moral character. Bob
served as the Las Vegas Board Vice President. The certainly deserves the kavod of being named our
decision for Dubin to make the jump to President Campaign All Star.
Congratulations to Bob Dubin! n
was a no-brainer.
EVERY YEAR, BOB DUBIN travels to Israel
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a long history of partnership with Yahel that has

included preparing infrastructure for housing and
farming, as well as building two reservoirs that irrigate
Yahels date plantations, which account for nearly 50%
of its income. And with the upcoming opening of Park
Yahel, a five-acre tourist complex at the entrance
to the kibbutzalso supported by JNF, through the
generosity of Jack Freeman of Orlando, FLanother
obstacle to growth is being addressed. The park
will create 89 new jobs for kibbutz members and
local residents and have a major impact on the
Aravas economy.
We thank JNF for its continued and generous
help in building the Yahel community, said Hillel
Tobias, CEO of Yahel. No words can express the
excitement and gratitude of our members. n
I have often said that JNF is one of

the only organizations that touches
the lives of all Israelis. It begins the
moment they wake up and turn the
water on: JNF has played a major role
in helping Israel deal with its water
crisis by adding 12% to the Israeli
water supply through our JNF Parsons
Water Fund initiatives. The fruits and
vegetables that they eat come from
Israeli farmers who learned their skills
from JNF-funded research farms. The security roads used daily
to drive children to school were built by the generous dollars
from JNF donors. This is just a small part of the work we do.
This past May I was part of the large and enthusiastic
Phoenix delegation on the Road to Jerusalem Mission. I
have had the privilege of visiting JNF projects many times,
but this time was different. Most mission participants
were seeing our projects for the first time, and I felt like
a proud parent witnessing their appreciation of what JNF
has accomplished.
It is impossible to set foot inside the Secure Indoor
Recreation Center in Sderot without a feeling of amazement
and excitement. To build a facility enabling children to play
without fear of Hamas rockets is a mitzvah provided by JNF
thanks to your campaign dollars.
We saw how far along Beer Sheva is in having a beautiful
river walk and new amphitheater. No one could believe that
not too long ago this area was strewn with garbage and old
cars. Progress and hope for a revitalized future are what
JNF has given this city.
Our mission drove on to Aleh Negev. How can you see a
project where Israels children and adults with disabilities
are treated with such love, respect, and state-of-the-art
rehabilitation capabilities, and not have tears in your eyes?
Once again, JNF is there recognizing one of Israels greatest
needs and finding ways to fill it.
Further south in the heart of the Negev, new communities
are emerging. While years ago, one might have thought this
to be an impossible task, the dream is now a reality. In an
effort to utilize and populate this vast area of land and
provide affordable housing for many, JNF is there to help.
JNF donors can be very proud of the work that they have
supported over the years. Not only have we built wonderful
projects that enhance the quality of life for all of Israels
residents, but we have helped to build a homeland of which
everyone can be proud. This will go a long way to ensuring
a strong and safe Israel for future generations.
As National Vice President of Campaign, I want to thank
all of you for making this years campaign a success, one
measured not just in dollars but in the lives we touched.
since 1989, new

houses will soon be built on Kibbutz Yahel, a
Reform movement kibbutz in the southern Arava
Desert. The community expansion, supported by
JNF, will create 39 new residential sites.
To Ron Bernstein, a JNF Israel Emissary who
founded Yahel in 1977, this expansion is a promise
that will ensure the future of the kibbutz for
generations to come.
Around 45 families call Yahel home today, and
many more have expressed interest in moving there,
drawn by the kibbutzs eco-friendliness (this past
summer, it became the first kibbutz in Israel to have
solar panels on every house), the caliber of the local
school, the many nearby recreation options, and the
overall quality of life. But in the past, Yahel has had
to turn potential residents away or put them on a
waiting list due to a shortage of housing sites. The
new section of the kibbutz will accommodate new
families as well as the children of Yahel residents
who would like to return and settle down where they
grew up.
Though this is not the first time the kibbutz has
expanded, it is the first time that funding has come
from a source other than the government. JNF has
CAMPAIGN UPDATE
ACROSS THE COUNTRY

FOR INFO ON UPCOMING JNF EVENTS, VISIT JNF.ORG AND CLICK ON JNF IN YOUR AREA
NEW ENGLAND ZONE
JNF ACROSS THE COUNTRY
SOUTHERN ZONE
LOS ANGELES ZONE
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NEW ENGLAND ZONE
SOUTHERN ZONE
LOS ANGELES ZONE
(L-R, back row) New England board member Adam Zlotnick, Prof. Alan Dershowitz,
Christina Zlotnick, (L-R, front row) Adrianna Zlotnick and Ariella Zlotnick at the
New England Consul Generals Yom Haatzmaut event.
1 (L-R) Jill Lerner, Southeast Co-President; Alan Wolk, board member; Clinton and
1 (L-R) Evan and Sandra Roklen, Lynn and Mark Egerman, Larry Russ, and Bud and
(L-R) New England Golf Tournament honoree Julie Kahn, WEEI radio host John
Dennis, and board member Brian Nagle at the Spring Valley Country Club in
Sharon, MA.
(L-R) JNFuture National Board President and JNFuture Boston President Emeritus
Zev Steinmetz, New England Chairman of the Board and President Emeritus
Jeffrey Davis, and President Emeritus and Green Horizons National Chair Ron
Lubin at the New England kickoff event for JNFs Summit at the Red Rock Casino
and Resort.
(L-R) Event Co-Chairs Matt Levy and Stephen Karp at the annual New England
Golf Tournament.
(L-R) New England Chairman of the Board and President Emeritus Jeffrey Davis,
New England board member Kenneth Davis, President Emeritus and Green
Horizons Chair Ronald Lubin, New England board member David Eisenberg, New
England board member Ed Hershfield, and New England board member Bruce
Levine at the 2012 Golf Tournament Tribute Dinner.
Susan Weinstein; Zevi Kahanov, JNF Parsons Water Fund National Director; Bruce
Reisman, board member; Gladys Hirsch, board member; and Matt Lieberman,
Southeast Co-president; at an event promoting the JNF Parsons Water Fund.
2 (L-R) Adele Northrup, JNF Israel Emissary Ronnie Porat, Marvin Botnick, and
Judy Levin volunteered at JNFs Positively Israel Pavilion presented at the Los
Angeles Celebrate Israel Festival.
2 (L-R) Richie London, Alan Goodman, Chuck Eberly, Lloyd Sherman, Jay Kester,
Michael Levinson at a JNF Parsons Water Fund event in Atlanta.
Bobby Margolis, and Rick Solomon enjoyed the cocktail hour during the 22nd
annual Los Angeles Golf and Texas Hold Em Tournament.
3 (L-R) JNF board members Roni and Alan Wolk and JNF Parsons Water Fund
3 (L-R) Tony Rubin, Matthew Cohen, Halutza representative Yedidya Harush,
National Director Zevi Kahanov enjoyed an event in Atlanta.
4 Noah Johnson enjoyed his visit with Blue Box Bob on Israeli Independence Day.
5 (L-R) Robin Irwin, Ilissa Hoffpauir, Lori Slater, Southwest Regional Director
Julie Malin, Elissa Laviage, Lindsay Aronstein, and Jennifer Joy-Bronk kicked off
the Southwest Moms for Israel Campaign at Rebecca and Drew in Houston.
Adam Bar, Eric Adler, Lisa Elkan, Michelle Jackson, Dean Solomon, and Daren
Schlecter at a JNFuture Leadership Development meeting in Los Angeles.
FLORIDA ZONE
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FLORIDA ZONE
1. (L-R) Josh Berkowitz, Roy Esh, Ken Segel, General Campaign Chair Rosalie
Schlaen, and Miami-Dade Region President Ron Kriss at a Miami-Dade board

meeting.
2. (L-R) Harry Frisch, Judge Harvey Schlesinger, Lilo Frisch, and Lois Schlesinger at
the 2012 Bernard Selevan Tree of Life award dinner.
3. (L-R) Keynote speaker Major General Gadi Shamni, Israel Defense and Armed
Forces Attach Hadas Shamni, Kristan Dufour, and Jeffrey Block at the Bernard
Selevan Tree of Life award dinner in Jacksonville.

4. (L-R) Steven Braverman, Naples board member Anthony Solomon, and Jeanne and
Neil Braverman at the Naples Tree of Life award dinner held at Anthony
Solomons Twin Eagles Golf and Country Club.

5. (L-R) Major General Gadi Shamni and Evan Yegelwel at the Jacksonville Tree
of Life award dinner.
6. Lois and Norman Weiss of Naples enjoyed Shabbat dinner in Israel during JNFs
Sunshine Mission with Hal Linden.
7. (L-R) Beth Morris and 2009 Tree of Life award recipient Arnold Lerner at the
Naples Tree of Life award dinner.
8 (L-R) Les Aberson, Norman Weinberg, and David Chaifetz enjoyed the 2012
Sarasota Tree of Life gala.
9 (L-R) Dyan Owes; Jack Freeman; Debbie Meitan-Gutter, JNF Orlando Womens
Campaign chair; and Larry Gutter at the Orlando Tree of Life award dinner.
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10 Bunny Skirboll (left) and Robyn Goldstein (right) congratulated Sarasota Tree of
Life award recipient Helen Glaser (center).
11 Israel Fire Chief Boaz Rakia (left) and JNF Israel representative Ariel Kotler
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18. (L-R) Daphna Bentata, Gabriela Birnbaum, Ivette Woldenberg, and Ori
Serfati at the Moms for Israel meeting at the home of Laura and Mauricio Sion
in Hollywood.
(second from right) briefed Valerie and Harold Joels on the pressing need for new 19. Laura and Mauricio Sion hosted a Moms For Israel meeting in their Hollywood
home.
firefighting equipment in Israel.
20. (L-R) Silvia Lerner and guest speaker Beckie Fischer, JNF Broward board
his yearly Blue Box tzedakah donation. Hes pictured with proud parents Lori and president and Central Arava Task Force chair, at the Moms for Israel meeting
held at the Hollywood home of Laura and Mauricio Sion.
Dan, baby brother Ethan, and Florida Regional Director Uri Smajovits (left).
12 Joshua Frenden visited the JNF Clearwater office on his 6th birthday to bring in
21. Congregants from Temple Judea in Palm Beach Garden, led by Rabbi Yaron
Alan and Nancy Bomstein; Jeffrey Gad, presenter and Tampa Bay board member; Kapitulnik, visited the Harvey Hertz-JNF Ceremonial Tree Planting Center at
Neot Kedumim on their trip to Israel this summer.
and Betsy Marcadis, Tampa Bay co-president at the Tampa Bay Tree of Life
award dinner.
22. (L-R) Shari Meltzer and Rabbi Michael Singer of Temple Beth David in Palm
Beach Gardens posed with an Israeli firefighter during Temple Beth Davids trip
14 (L-R) Sharon Pikus, Charles Kramer, Marilyn Rothstein, guest speaker from the
to Israel.
Alexander Muss High School in Israel Joel Klausner, and Mort Fishman at a Palm
Beach Board of Directors meeting at the Shutts & Bowen law firm in West Palm
23. (L-R) Sandra Taylor, JNF Senior Campaign Executive Robbie Puritz-Hayes,
Beach.
Cynthia Hertz, Sandra Crain, Susan Cain, Jan Courte, Inna Ruvinsky,
15 (L-R) Dana Mortell, Leesa Tabrizi, Michelle David, and Fay Sanders during a hike at Cantor Elaine Shapiro, and Shelly Gross at a monthly Rosh Chodesh meeting
hosted by Cynthia Hertz in Boynton Beach.
a waterfall in the Golan Heights on their Taglit Birthright-Israel trip.
13 (L-R) Mark Miller, Tampa Bay board co-president; Tree of Life award recipients
24. (L-R) Howard DuBosar, Dr. Robert Colton, Ken Esrig, JNF Florida Zone Director
Glen Schwartz, Michael Lazar, and JNF Chief Development Officer Rick Krosnick
Pearlman, board member; Shari Mezrah, board member; Todd Mezrah; Betsy
Marcadis, Tampa Bay board co-president; and Dr. Abe Marcadis, board member, at at a meeting of the South Palm Beach Board of Directors in Boca Raton.
the Tree of Life award dinner held in Tampa.
16 (L-R) Dr. Michele Miller; Mark Miller, Tampa Bay board co-president; David
17. (L-R) Karen Jensen, Faye David, JNF Orlando board member Harvey Kobrin, Cheryl
Collins, and Michael Mangan at the Orlando Tree of Life award dinner.
WESTERN ZONE
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9. (L-R) Former AIPAC San Francisco Area Director PJ Cherrin, Regional

Director Aaron Parker, Ilene Adler, JNF Northern California board member
2. (L-R) Stuart Berkley, sister-in-law Dee Berkley, and brother Fred Berkley at Howard Hoffman, and President of The Trustees of The Friends of the
Arava Institute Hillel Solomon at a JNF parlor meeting.
the 10th annual Las Vegas breakfast.
1. (L-R) Ray Fiol and Min Kataczinsky at the 10th annual Las Vegas breakfast.
3. (L-R) Bobby Feldman, Liz Goodman, and Melanie Greenberg at the 10th
annual Las Vegas breakfast at Temple Beth Sholom.
4. (L-R) Longtime JNF supporters Leland Huttner, Bob Rottman, and Sheldon
Steinhauser at the JNF annual breakfast in Denver.
5. (L-R) Rabbi Bruce Dollin, David Moskowitz, and Tami Dollin at the JNF
annual breakfast at the Hebrew Educational Alliance in Denver.
10. (L-R) Matt Bernstein, JNF Chief Planned Giving Officer, presented a
Tiffany Blue Box to Doris Gylseph and Leonard Polonsky in honor of their
contributions to JNF.
11. (L-R) Matt Bernstein, JNF Chief Planned Giving Officer; Event Co-Chair
Dan Koblin, VP Pinnacle Consulting Group; Regional Director Adele
Bilewitz; and Event Co-Chair David Lang, HBLA Certified Public
Accountant; at an Orange County Planned Giving event.
6. (L-R) Event Co-Chairs Tammy Goldstein and Stacy Wasserman at the Denver 12. (L-R) JNF Chief Planned Giving Officer Matt Bernstein, guest speakers
Jamia Jasper, Gal Ben-Naim and Marshall Kaplan, Co-Chair David Lang,
annual breakfast.
speaker Mitchell Wexler, and Co-Chair Dan Koblin at the Orange County
7. (L-R) Chairman of the Northern California Board John Rothmann and Moses Planned Giving event held at the Hilton Hotel in Costa Mesa.
Libitzky at a board meeting at Nixon Peabody Law Office in San Francisco.
13. Debbie Orgen-Garrett served as Event Chair for the Palm Springs and
Desert Region Love of Israel Dinner.

8. Former Israeli Consul General to Northern California and the Pacific
Northwest Akiva Tor accepted a JNF plaque in recognition of his service to
the region.
14. Elaine Land Dexter served as Event Chair for the 2012 Palm Springs and
Desert Region Love of Israel Dinner.
15. Arizona board member Toni Dusik (right) with her husband Milan Dusik at
the 2012 Arizona Tree of Life award dinner.
16. (L-R) JNF CEO Russell Robinson with Tree of Life award recipients Shari
and Irwin Kanefsky of Scottsdale at the Tree of Life award dinner at the
Arizona Biltmore Resort.
17. (L-R) Sandy Rife, Sara Bar, Gideon Bar, and Seymour Rife at Ammunition
Hill. The Bars, Israeli cousins of the Rifes, were recognized on the Wall of
Honor at Ammunition Hill.
18. Danielle Chayot with San Diego board member and Event Co-Chair David
Bramzon at the San Diego Love of Israel brunch.
19. (L-R) Table captain Robyn Raskind, San Diego board member and table
captain Josh Zlotlow, and his wife Betina Zlotlow at the San Diego JNF
Love of Israel brunch.
20. Dr. Anthony and Ellen Sacks enjoyed the San Diego JNF Love of
Israel brunch.
MID-ATLANTIC ZONE
MIDWEST ZONE
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67
10
11
MID-ATLANTIC ZONE
1.
Members of JNFuture at a successful event in

Washington, D.C.
2.
(L-R) Terry Katz, National Womens JNF Campaign for

Israel Chair; Marsha Liss, DC Womens Alliance Chair;
Mimi Kress; and playwright David Bar Katz at a fundraiser
in Washington D.C.
3.

4.

(L-R) Washington, D.C. JNFuture Co-Chairs Lauren

Kaufman-Bergmann and Danielle Traub at a
JNFuture program.
Doctors for Israel committee members Dr. Todd Samuels,
Dr. Larry Amsterdam, Dr. Stacey Berner, Dr. Cliff Faber,
and Dr. Jim Chisum with guest speaker Beckie Fischer
(center), National Chair of the Central Arava Task Force.
5.Jim Schiller dedicated a plaque in honor of his father,
George Schiller, at Ammunition Hill in Jerusalem with his

granddaughter Mallory.
6.Lawyers for Israel Co-Chairs in Maryland Frank Spector and

Anna Davis at a JNF Lawyers for Israel event.
7.(L-R) Delaware JNF Lawyers for Israel Chair Russell
Silberglied and Campaign Executive Eric Narrow after a

successful Lawyers for Israel event.
11
10
MIDWEST ZONE
8.Dr. Paul Schneider (right) presented a gift of $5,000
1. (L-R) Seth Wenig, JNFuture Co-Chair and National
7. (L-R) St. Louis volunteers Dan Kweskin, Ellen Stein,
9.(L-R) Delaware board member Dr. Barry Kayne
2. Attendees at the Chicago annual breakfast listened to
8. (L-R) Twin Cities breakfast committee members Stan
to JNF at the Tali School in Israel on the Krieger

Schechter Day Schools annual eighth grade trip
to Israel.
and Campaign Executive Eric Narrow in Newark,

Delaware.
JNFuture board member, and Tracy Treger, Vice President

of Leadership on the Chicago Regional Board, at the first
Chicago JNFuture Leadership group meeting.
guest speaker Yishai Fleishers analysis on the Arab Spring

and its regional impact.
10.(L-R) Erika Schon and Suzie Levene at a major donors 3. (L-R) Nina Paul, incoming National Vice-Chair and National
thank you event.
11.National Campaign Director Diane Scar (right)
surprised Dr. Larry Amsterdam with a cake at a

fundraiser for the Arava Medical Center.
Vice President for Women for Israel; Elece Kovel; Bonnie

Ullner; Karen Schiffer; and Sandy Mendel at a Cincinnati
Moms for Israel luncheon hosted by Pam Barnett.
4. (L-R) Cincinnati Mayor Mark Mallory and JNF National
President Stan Chesley after the official proclamation of

JNF Day in Cincinnati.
5. (L-R) Ambassador Ido Aharoni, Consul General of Israel in

New York, and Co-Chair David Gershuny at the Cincinnati
annual breakfast, where Ambassador Aharoni discussed
Positively Israel.
6. (L-R) Cleveland 2012 Tree of Life award recipient
Chuck Whitehill posed with event chairs Joni and Steve

Wasserman, who hosted the 2012 Tree of Life kick-off.
keynote speaker Yishai Fleisher, Lisa Ring, Greg

Storch, Celeste Wieselman, Fran and Harvey Cantor,
and Norm Pressman at the St. Louis annual breakfast.

Baratz, Lisa Heilicher, Joel Greenwald, keynote

speaker Jonathan Adelman, and Harold Goldfine at
an event benefiting JNF partner Alexander Muss High
School in Israel.
9. (L-R) Wisconsin Regional Director Sidney Rivkin
and past JNF community banquet honoree Rabbi

Yoseph Samuels at the JNF booth at the community-
wide Yom Haatzmaut celebration.
10. (L-R) Wisconsin Region President Emeriti

Ruth Resnick, Sheldon Resnick, and Audrey Brooks

with tribute banquet honorees, Dr. Corey and
Rabbi Shari Shamah, at a reception hosted in honor
of this years honorees.
11. (L-R) Wisconsin Regional Director Sidney

Rivkin, Eliana Wasserman, Noah Schatz, Judy

Salinsky, Dr. Gerald Salinsky, and Kayla Wasserman at
a campaign parlor meeting hosted by the Salinskys.
The students described their 8th grade class trip to
Israel and activities they participated in with JNF.
GREATER NEW YORK ZONE
NORTHEAST ZONE
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6
10
9
NORTHEAST ZONE
1 (L-R) Central New Jersey board members Mindy Zaziski and

Marc Leibowitz at the annual Central New Jersey Texas
HoldEm Poker Tournament.
2 Golf Tournament honoree Saul Leighton and his wife
Shelley at the Echo Lake Country Club in Westfield, NJ.
3 (L-R) Central New Jersey board members Mark Rattner
and Alyssa Russo, New York board member Jeffrey Levine,

and Central New Jersey board member Daniel Richter at
the Central New Jersey annual breakfast.
4 (L-R) Southern New Jersey JNFuture Chair Michael Perice
and JNFuture founder Ben Jablonski at a JNFuture kick-off

meeting.
5 (L-R) Chuck Fax, Vice President of Israel Action;
Dr. Michael Yasner; Dr. Roy Levinson; and Dr. Daniel

Rosenbaum at the Doctors for Israel event in Southern
New Jersey.
6 (L-R) Liat Itzhak from KKLs United States Department with

Nina, Harris, Debbie, Brian and Seth Drachman, and Aviva
Weinberg at the KKL/JNF headquarters in Jerusalem.
11
7 (L-R) Richard S. Cohen, Philadelphia Board President; 1
(L-R) Event Chairs Elana Kornreich and Rachel Schor,

Frances Schor, Long Island Board President Sharon Pikus,
and Lea Ruskin at a Long Island Women for Israel event at
the Neue Galerie.
(L-R) Lyn Jacobs; Nancy Zaro; and Elisa Schindler Frankel,

National Director of Women for Israel, Doctors for Israel
and Special Campaigns; at the Westchester Guardian of
Israel reception.
Marina Furman, Regional Director; and David

Dinenberg, Philadelphia Board Vice President, at the
Tree of Life dinner in Philadelphia.
8 (L-R) Leslie Laird Kruhly, Secretary of the University
of Pennsylvania; Amy Gutman, President of University

of Pennsylvania; and Marciarose Shestack at the
Tree of Life dinner in Philadelphia.
9 (L-R) Philadelphia Board President Richard S. Cohen

and Renee and Joseph Zuritsky at the Tree of Life
dinner in Philadelphia.
The JNF float at the Celebrate Israel Parade.
(L-R) New York board member Bernard Friedman,

Michael Block, and Herb Rosenstock at the Bayonne Golf
Invitational.
(L-R) Jerusalem Fire Chief Shmulik Friedman, Event Chair

Alan Levine, and Charles Schackner at a JNF insider
briefing at Cushman & Wakefield.
Shabbat in the Park Chair Allison Holzberg and JNFuture

Chair Ben Levine at JNFutures fifth annual Shabbat in the
Park.
JNFuture Root Society Chair Elior Shiloh and Shabbat

in the Park Host Committee Co-Chair Ilana Derman at
JNFutures fifth annual Shabbat in the Park.
JNFuture Root Society members Juliana and Elie Jacobs at

JNFutures fifth annual Shabbat in the Park.
JNFuture Education Chair Jonathan Gertman and Shabbat

in the Park Host Committee Co-Chair Ilana Derman at the
fifth annual Shabbat in the Park.
10
(L-R) JNFuture Event Chair Jessica Levine, New York board

member Asaf Palgi, JNFuture Chair Ben Levine, New York
board member Benjamin Jablonski, and JNFuture Chair
Adam Belfer at JNFutures fifth annual Shabbat in the
Park.
11
(L-R) Dr. Ivy Engel, Doctors for Israel Chair; Dr. Yuval
Neria, Professor of Clinical Psychology and Director of
Trauma and PTSD Program at Columbia University; and
Event Chair Dr. Gail Bauchman at a New York Doctors for
Israel event.
CREATE A LASTING LEGACY

charitable gift annuities
charitable remainder trusts
charitable lead trusts
life insurance
endowments
donor advised funds
bequests
reserved for a select group of people who have demonstrated

an enduring commitment to Israel and JNF. Society members
receive exclusive privileges and services.
JNFS DONOR SOCIETIES
Membership benefits include:

Name recognition in the Book of Life, on permanent
display at JNF headquarters in NY
A custom-designed Gould Legacy Society pin
Invitations to special events and lectures
For legacy gifts of $50,000 and above, donors will receive
a limited edition JNF Blue Box designed by Tiffany & Co.
Recognition in Israel
Join us today and help build a prosperous future for the land of
Israel and its people. Contact Yael Septee Kane at ykane@jnf.org
or 212-879-9305 ext. 220 for more information.
JNFs Tribute to the Munich 11

IN 1984, SHORTLY BEFORE LOS ANGELES hosted the XXIII
Summer Olympic Games, JNF gave a gift of 11 trees as a lasting

memorial to the tragedy of the 1972 Munich Olympics, where 11
Israeli athletes were murdered.
The plaque reads, These trees stand as a memorial to the 11
athletes who were murdered during the XXth Olympiad.
The trees were planted by the JNF Los Angeles board in the Pan
Pacific Park, adjacent to the Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust
(LAMOTH). They are cared for by the Department of Recreation
and Parks.
To commemorate the 40th anniversary of the tragedy this
summer, LAMOTH held a ceremony on the last day of the Olympics
attended by the two local City Councilmen, the Consul General of
Germany, the Consul General of Israel and David Frank, JNFs Vice
President of Planned Giving, who spoke at the event.
JNF Los Angeles board member David Chudnow said, The trees
are still an important symbol 30 years later. It is important that
we remember.
To plant trees in Israel with JNF, call 800.542.TREE or visit jnf.org/tree
JNF.org
To learn more contact one of our Planned Giving

Specialists at 800-562-7256 or plannedgiving@jnf.org
11
From the Hill to the Homeland to the Red Rock Desert

Danielle Traub & Lauren Kaufman-Bergmann, JNFuture in DC Co-Chairs
IN MARCH, WE LAUNCHED JNFUTURE
JNFUTURE
12
JNF.org
in Washington, DC with overwhelming success and

excitement. We were confident that JNFuture in DC
would offer young professionals in our nations capital
an opportunity so many of us were seekinga chance to
get involved in the premier organization for developing
the land of Israel while creating lasting friendships and
connecting with other young professionals.
We thought our 80-person kick-off event was the
highlight of our involvement with Jewish National Fund.
We were wrong.
On July 22, 2012 we gathered in Tel Aviv for the second
JNFuture Leadership Institute Mission (JLIM). From
the beginning, it was clear we all felt the same deep
commitment to our homeland, Israel, while working hard
to develop leadership in our communities in the U.S.
The next four days were filled with inspiring visits to JNF
projects and historical sites across Israel. We reflected
on the past with visits to David Ben Gurions home and
Independence Hall. We learned about the challenges
presented to Israeli leaders like Mayor of Beer Sheva Ruvik
Danilovich and MK Yoel Hasson. We drove right into the
future of Israel with a visit to Better Place. We traveled
along the ancient Spice Route in the Central Arava and
marveled at a land that seems barren but grows 60% of
Israels exported produce and 10% of the fresh cut flower

exports. We visited the Carmel Forest and recalled the
tragic forest fire of December 2010. We planted trees in
Beer Sheva. We played basketball with children at the
Sderot Indoor Recreation Center. We met with students
at the Alexander Muss High School in Israel (AMHSI).
Each site we visited wove the vision of JNF: invoking
Israels rich history while opening doors to a bright
and sustainable future.
We returned from JLIM with a renewed sense of urgency
to become further involved with JNF and to expand
JNFuture into a cohesive national movement. And still we
know that will not remain the highlight of our involvement
with JNF. As JNFs young leadership arm, JNFuture has a
strong affinity to the issue of promoting sustainability in
our communities. The pinnacle of these efforts will be
when we join forces at The Summit in April 2013.
The first-ever JNFuture Summit will be a one-of-a-kind
two-day experience focused on sustainability of water,
food and energy. Bringing together young leaders from
across the globe in agriculture, journalism, environmental
studies and politics, well take a deep look at the
economic, social and environmental issues affecting our
daily lives. Well engage in conversation about the impact
of sustainability and well highlight Israels leadership in
Young professionals connecting in Israel.
this area. Well meet new friends and share an amazing

celebration in the best setting for discussing renewable
resources Nevadas Red Rock Desert. This is a not-to-bemissed event; we invite you to join us and bring others.
JLIM brought us together and well meet again at Red
Rock. We cant wait to share our stories and claim our
mark as the voice of our generation. n
For more information on The Summit with JNF,

visit jnf.org/summit. For more information on
JNFuture, visit jnf.org/jnfuture or contact Sharon
David at sdavid@jnf.org or 212.879.9305 x242.
Every Generation Has a Story. Ours is Sustainability.

Join JNF at The Summit | April 27-29, 2013 Red Rock Casino, Resort & Spa Las Vegas, NV
Today, Israel is a global leader in sustainability initiatives. To help share these innovations with the rest of the
world, we need to come together and lend our voices. Its up to us to make it work, and bring scalable new
solutions to the table for:
Water Energy Food
It is the chance to make new friends and network with thought leaders from the
centers of innovation, while bringing to light the core issues of our time.
For more information, contact Sharon David at sdavid@jnf.org or 212.879.9305 x242.
Register at jnf.org/summit. Sign up now!
JNF SPEAKERS BUREAU

Bring world-renowned speakers to your next event
JNF Speakers Bureau is a unique service that brings top speakers to your
community. Gain inside and unparalleled perspectives on Israel and a variety
sisterhoods, mens clubs, and conferences.
Bring a powerful voice to your next event.
Book your speaker today at jnf.org/speakers

For more information contact speakers@jnf.org
or Jessica Cutter at 212.879.9305 ext. 252.
SPEAKERS
BUREAU
of other topics at your meetings, community events, synagogues, schools,
13
JNF.org
Whats Fact? Whats Fiction?

Israeli scientists developed the first fully computerized, no-radiation diagnostic
instrument for breast cancer.
The technology for AOL Instant Messenger was developed by four young Israelis.
When the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya was bombed, Israeli rescue teams were
on the scene within a dayand saved three victims from the rubble.
An Israeli company was the first to develop and install a large-scale solar-powered and
fully functional electricity generating plant, in southern Californias Mojave Desert.
Israel sent 120 physicians to the tsunami-stricken areas of Asia, as well as 82
tons of medical equipment and humanitarian aid.
Children orphaned in the Rwandan genocide are being trained by Israeli foresters in
agro-forestry and agriculture to help fight famine.
Israel was the first nation in the world to adopt the Kimberly process, the standard that
certifies diamonds as conflict free.
Truth is theyre ALL fact.

Are you surprised?
Learn more at PositivelyIsrael.org
Celebrating History on JNFs Road to Jerusalem Mission
ROAD TO JERUSALEM
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Orlando resident Bruce Gould dedicated the Bruce K. Gould Amphitheatre.
Some of the 120 mission participants at the Beer Sheva River Park.
THE REUNIFICATION
of Jerusalem in 1967 is a
defining moment in Israeli history, proof of the resiliency,
unity, and determination of the Jewish people. It comes as
no surprise then that JNFs Road to Jerusalem Mission,
held in May and commemorating the 45th anniversary of
this historic event, was its most successful mission ever,
with 120 participants.
We emphasized that this was a once-in-a-lifetime
experience, said mission professional and Northeast
Executive Director Joel Leibowitz. This mission was
significant because it was a meaningful anniversary and
included events and experiences that were exclusive to JNF.
People understood that it was special.
The marquee event of the mission was the ceremony
at Ammunition Hill, site of the heroic battle that marked
a significant turning point in the Six Day War. Today,
Ammunition Hill is a memorial and a museum supported by
JNF that annually hosts Israels official Yom Yerushalayim
(Jerusalem Day) ceremony. Participants enjoyed VIP
status, sitting in close proximity to dignitaries including
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, President Shimon
Peres, and Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat. Following the
ceremony, World Chairmans Council member and Orlando
resident Bruce Gould dedicated the Bruce K. Gould

Amphitheatre at Ammunition Hill.
Ken Segel, who served as Road to Jerusalem mission
chair, has been on many JNF missions and has chaired
two previous Presidents Society missions. But even for
him, being able to sit and experience Yom Yerushalayim in
Jerusalem at the official ceremonies was a real highlight.
Ammunition Hill played a big role in the IDFs ability to
reunify Jerusalem, said Segel. Its a great honor to have
a plaque on Ammunition Hills Wall of Honor [established to
honor the military service of Jewish soldiers throughout history]
if youre a Zionist and you relate to the Six Day War. I did my
junior year of college in Tel Aviv in 1970 and therefore am old
enough to remember the Six Day War. The idea of celebrating
the reunification of Jerusalem meant a lot to me.
The ability to stand with those people who played
such an important part in reuniting our capital was just
unbelievable, agreed mission participant Alyse Golden
Berkley. It was a special moment in history in which I
was fortunate to participate.
The mission attracted all types of travelers: those who
had never been to Israel before and those who had been
there countless times; people who had never had any
Prime Minister Netanyahu spoke at the Yom Yerushalayim ceremony.
Ken Segel and Joel Leibowitz.
real connection to JNF and people who were intimately

involved. Of the 120 participants on the trip, 50 had never
before donated to JNF or even been to Israel. This was
more than just a JNF mission; it was an opportunity to
walk in the footsteps of Israels history.
This trip really engaged people with JNF and Israel,
said Marc Kelman, JNFs Vice President of Campaign.
Everyone who went on the trip returned home an
ambassador for JNF and Israel.
On the mission, ground-breaking ceremonies were held
for the new visitor center at Gush Etzion and the new Beer
Sheva lake. Other highlights included an exclusive tour with
soldiers to learn about daily life in the IDF; a tour of Gush
Etzion, the site of one of the deadliest battles during the
War of Independence; and tree planting at the Harvey HertzJNF Ceremonial Tree Planting Center at Neot Kedumim.
For me, the most exciting part of the trip was to
see how excited all of my friends were with what they
saw and what they did, said Kelman. Seeing all of this
through their eyes was very rewarding. They finally saw
first-hand what Ive been talking about for the decade.
And they saw that everything Ive been saying is true. It
doesnt get better than that. n
Join the Israel@65 Independence Day Mission,

April 11-18, 2013. Celebrate Israels birthday
and be a part of this special experience that
includes exclusive access to major events
and insider tours. See a different side of Israel
that only JNF can provide. For more information,
visit jnf.org/travel or call 877.JNF.TOUR.
Alternative Break Inspires Tikkun Olam

AFTER SPENDING
Adam makes a difference with Earths Promise.
to the land within the municipality and maintains a good

name for Beer Shevas environmental activity.
This year the Alternative Winter and Spring Break
participants will work on a new piece of land that the
municipality approved for building an urban farm to
provide fresh, organic produce for local businesses
including restaurants and grocers. The extension to the
urban farm will include a greenhouse, an orchard, and an
aquaponics system that allows fish and vegetables to be
grown in a closed-loop system, recycling 90% of water used.
As the co-director of Earths Promise, I pledge to fulfill
the JNF vision and continue to provide inspirational and
productive volunteer opportunities to JNF ASB and AWB
participants, said Adam. Whenever someone asks me
the best way to return to Israel, my answer is always with
Jewish National Funds Alternative Break programs. n
Visit jnf.org/break for more information.
CONNECTING THE NEXT GENERATION TO ISRAEL

JNF offers many ways for young people to get to Israel
TAGLIT-BIRTHRIGHT ISRAEL
For 18-26-year-olds who have never been on
a peer trip to Israel. Join JNF and Shorashim
for a free 10-day Israel experience through
Taglit-Birthright Israel. israelwithisraelis.com
JNF ALTERNATIVE SPRING &

WINTER BREAK
A week of community service in Israel for
18-30-year-olds. Connect to the land and people
of Israel in a meaningful way. jnf.org/break
ALEXANDER MUSS HIGH SCHOOL

IN ISRAEL (AMHSI)
An innovative academic adventure, where the
country of Israel is transformed into a living
classroom. An eight-week English language program
in Israel for high school juniors and seniors.
jnf.org/amhsi
SPRING WINTER
15
JNF.org
of giving and dedication to Israel that permeates JNFs

ASB allowed me to fully express my desire to make my
permanent home in Israel.
Adam made aliyah in September 2010 and is now codirector of Earths Promise, a JNF partner, which promotes
a clean and healthy environment in the Negev, mainly in
the Beer Sheva area, by transforming neglected urban
spaces into micro-farms.
The establishment of these urban farms provides local
residents with a close and healthy food supply, connects
participants with the soil of the land of Israel, and
promotes development of relationships among neighbors
in the community. Many of the urban farms are worked by
new Ethiopian immigrants, who cultivate crops native to
Ethiopia that are difficult to buy or import to Israel.
The connection between JNFs Alternative Winter
and Spring Break programs and Earths Promise began in
2008. Earths Promise provides projects for the ASB/AWB
participants to accomplish during their time volunteering
in the Negev. Participants have painted shelters and
decaying walls with the colors of the Ethiopian flag and
the Israeli flag. The volunteers also interact with the
Ethiopian immigrants and can share an experience and
communicate without sharing the same language.
Earths Promises vision is to expand to other neglected
urban spaces and green the desert city of Beer Sheva.
Each new plot that Earths Promise develops is
supported by JNF, and as a result JNF continues its
important environmental work here in the Negev, said
Adam. The partnership between JNF and Earths Promise
advances the idea of urban agriculture and connection
EDUCATION & ADVOCACY
a summer studying at the Arava

Institute for Environmental Studies, Adam Ganson was looking
for a reason to return to Israel when he saw an ad for JNFs
Alternative Spring and Winter Break (ASB/AWB), a community
service trip for college students and young adults, ages 18-30,
who spend their spring or winter break in Israel volunteering
in communities in the Negev. Before his ASB experience in
2008, Adam had been to Israel four times, but ASB was his first
opportunity to be active and to contribute to Israels society
and environment. He found himself inspired by JNFs Blueprint
Negev campaign to sustainably develop the Negev Desert.
Alternative Spring Break was a perfect opportunity to
contribute to the Negev and to experience its places and
people in more depth, said Adam.
He jumped at the opportunity to go to Israel and to
bring along his friends from Vermont Law School. He loved
the personal fundraising aspect of the program, which
allows participants to connect with family and friends to
ask for support for their volunteer work.
Every time I saw the fundraise-o-meter jump to a
new level, I would become more excited, remembered
Adam. I also knew that my fellow fundraisers also asked
their friends and family, which assured me that every
participant was invested in volunteering during their break.
It was after his second ASB experience, tagging along on
his sisters spring break trip in 2009 while he was in Israel
doing an internship, when he decided to make aliyah.
That was the first time that I said out loud and proudly,
I want to make aliyah, I want my home in Israel, said
Adam. Although I had thought about it, this was the first
time I was sharing the idea with others. The atmosphere
Tel Aviv
JNF has been at the forefront of water

management and conservation in
Israel for two decades, increasing the
countrys total water supply by 12%
and helping Israel become a world
leader in water recycling.
WATER
RENEWAL
JNFs parks and forests provide

thousands of recreational acres
for Israels residents, enjoyed by
millions every weekend and holiday.
GREEN
INNOVATIONS
JNF enhances the quality of life of Israels

residents by building new communities
and bolstering existing ones. JNFs
Blueprint Negev campaign is helping
to bring hundreds of thousands of new
residents to the Negev Desert by creating
infrastructure and economic opportunities.
Community building includes everything
from creating playgrounds to purchasing
fire trucks, constructing security roads, and
developing tourism sites.
COMMUNITY
BUILDING
Haifa
Jerusalem
JNFs efforts to
improve the quality
of life for all Israelis
and to develop the
land of Israel for the
next generation can
be seen throughout
the country. This
map shows the
breadth and scope
of JNFs work.
MAP NOT TO SCALE
Eilat
Mizpe Ramon
Beer Sheva
As part of its focus on improving quality of

life in Israel, JNF is dedicated to ensuring that
no member of Israeli society is left behind.
Through a variety of initiatives, JNF provides
cutting-edge rehabilitative services, special
education, and medical care for people with
special needs and makes its forests, parks,
picnic areas, playgrounds, nature trails, and
recreational facilities inclusive to visitors of
all ability levels.
INCLUSION &
THERAPEUTIC SERVICES
JNF is committed to the preservation

of historical sites throughout Israel
and ensuring that the stories behind
these sites are properly documented
and told for generations to come.
HERITAGE
SITES
JNF offers myriad ways to connect young

American Jews to Israel, from trips to
Israel to Bnai Mitzvah projects and
advocacy programs on college campuses.
In addition, JNF supports leadership
development programs for Israeli youth.
EDUCATION
& ADVOCACY
JNF sponsors a network of agricultural

R&D stations in Israel, where leading
scientists and technicians work closely
with local farmers, research institutes
and universities to increase agricultural
sustainability, profitability, and stability.
RESEARCH
& DEVELOPMENT
C ultivating Tomorrows Leaders
with Green Horizons
armit Arbel Rumbak credits the Green Horizons youth

group with building her self-esteem.
Growing up in Hadera, if you were a smart kid,
you got hustled, recalled the newly hired JNF-Green
Horizons liaison. Green Horizons was a place I could show
interest, and I didnt feel embarrassed about being a smart
girl. It really built my self-esteem. Green Horizons really
saved me.
A JNF partner organization, Green Horizons helps youth
build self-confidence, independence, curiosity, and a
better understanding of their surroundings with a goal
of fostering leadership. Participants learn about Israels
history, geography, and culture. The program emphasizes
the importance of social participation, tolerance, and
personal responsibility.
The groups, which stay together from 6th-12th grade,
meet every week. The activities vary, but typically the focus
is exploring the area in which they live. From flipping rocks
to finding lizards and renovating an archaeological site to
learning the history of a place and studying geology, the
guide chooses a subject that will capture the groups
interest. Once a month they go on a two-day hike near
their homes, and during school vacations they leave for
longer treks and camping excursions all around Israel.
Karmit, who is 30 years old and started Green Horizons at
age 12, believes that the program gave her a strength and
EDUCATION & ADVOCACY
confidence in areas not just related to nature and survival

activities. It instilled in her an inner belief that she could
accomplish whatever she put her mind to.
From the self-confidence that I earned during the years
in Green Horizons, I had the courage to open up a cinema by
myself in Dimona while pursuing my Masters degree, and to
approach the CEO of the biggest movie production company
in Israel when I wanted to
promote Israeli movies around
the world, she said.
She continued to guide Green
Horizons groups while in the
army, combining working with
a youth organization and army
service. While its a longer term
of service, for Karmit it was an
important path to follow.
I wanted to make teenagers fall in love with Israel, she
said. That way, they would be serving in the army out of love for
the country, not because they have to.
Some kids come from rich neighborhoods, while others
come from poorer areas. Since the groups meet every week,
they become united.
Theres something special about giving love and respect
to the kids, said Karmit. Were giving them challenges
that they think are beyond their limits. We build ourselves
Green
Horizons
really
saved me.
A Green Horizons group on a hiking trip.
together. I know I changed their lives because I showed them

that they can do something.
Its not by chance, she says, that most Green Horizons
graduates go on to top-ranked positions in the army and in
Israeli society. Alumni include the chairman of the Israeli Bar
Association, the mayor of Akko, the Israeli Ambassador to
Nepal, and the CEO of Avis.
Think about it, said Karmit. In the countrys 64-year
history, there are 10 Nobel Prize winners. The hardest thing
about getting a Nobel Prize is believing in yourself. When I
take kids and build their self-confidence, I give them tools to
have the next creative ideas.
Karmit started her new position as JNF-Green Horizons
liaison earlier this year. She never expected to go back to
Green Horizons but couldnt pass up the opportunity to do
something she found importantfundraising and connecting
with American Jews.
I dont see myself as a typical fundraiser, she said.
There are some people who really want to make a
difference and have a large impact on the future of Israel,
to be significant in other peoples lives. Im so happy to
meet Jewish people all around the world and give them the
opportunity to actually influence the quality of life in Israel. n
To learn more, visit jnf.org/greenhorizons
SPNI: Protecting Nature in Israel
Children working in Maagalei Yavneh Community Garden.
n 2008, JNF entered into a collaboration with American

Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel (ASPNI),
the fundraising arm of Society Protection of Nature in
Israel (SPNI). Together, the organizations have developed
four very different projects in four very different areas of
Jerusalem to help make the city greener and engage citizens
in a positive way.
The flagship project is Jerusalems Gazelle Valley,
Israels first-ever nature site planned by environmental
organizations. It was originally threatened by plans to
construct a new housing development within the valley,
which would have destroyed the habitat of the endangered
Gazella gazelle, a subspecies of mountain gazelle. Leading
a coalition of residents and social and environmental
organizations, SPNI successfully defeated the construction
plan. SPNI is now promoting a new development plan that will
enshrine the Gazelle Valley as
an urban park and operate
educational activities and
communal events in the area.
The Gazelle Valley has
become an inspirational symbol
to realize the unfulfilled
potential of Israels other
urban nature sites, said
Uri Goldflam, Director of
Resource Development and
Foreign Relations at SPNI. The
campaign to save the valley
is one of only a few known examples of a successful
grassroots conservation campaign in Israel and has
transformed the Gazelle Valley into a major cause on a
national level. Jerusalems Mayor Nir Barkat and Deputy
Mayor Naomi Tsur are some of the campaigns strongest
proponents, and thousands of Israelis and tourists have
already enjoyed exploring the Gazelle Valley.
SPNI has
transformed
this area into
a unique
conservation
site...
GREEN INNOVATIONS
In Neve Yaakov, one of Jerusalems poorer neighborhoods,

a wildflower sanctuary has been established by the
communitys Haredim and Russian and Ethiopian immigrants
on a patch of undeveloped open space within the Mir Forest,
a JNF project that borders this residential neighborhood.
Over the past several years, SPNI has transformed this
area into a unique conservation site for wildflowers, while
maintaining and complementing the natural landscape, with
the help of its professional staff led by Dr. Anna Godniva.
Currently over 300 species of wildflowers can be found
within the reserve, including 55 protected species.
The wildflower sanctuary has seen rapid progress and is
stimulating development in the area. At a nearby housing
development site, the Ministry of Housing is promoting a
plan which will include the establishment of an ecological
experiential trail, butterfly garden, nesting boxes, a
wetlands breeding habitat, and a biblical orchard. Next
to the wildflower sanctuary, Jerusalems municipality is
planning to establish a youth center promoting educational
activities on ecology and the environment and familiarizing
Neve Yaakovs younger residents with the Mir Forest and the
concepts of nature conservation.
In south Jerusalem, SPNI has established a community
garden near the recently inaugurated Railway Park in
Emek Refaim adjacent to Maagalei Yavneh Street. This
new scenic walking and cycling route links Jerusalems
southern neighborhoods with Emek Refaim, one of
Jerusalems trendier areas. With the support of JNF, SPNI
has worked with local residents to promote a sustainable
development plan for the garden. National service
volunteers assist residents with the day-to-day running of the
community garden, organize weekly activities for residents,
recruit new gardeners, and plan activities and events.
The planning process for the park has brought the
community together and made the garden a meeting
place where concerts are held, films are shown, and
lectures are given, said Pazit Schweid, Director of Urban

Communities for SPNI. One highlight is the annual music
festival, which drew 400 people this year for the official
opening ceremony for new community gardens and to
recognize the progress of more established community
gardens in Jerusalem.
Finally, the newly overhauled Jerusalem Green Map
website highlights natural, environmental and cultural
sites and activities in the city of Jerusalem, enabling
residents and tourists alike to experience the green side of
the city in a new and exciting way. Each site on the Green
Map features a brief description, photo, map of the site,
contact information, and links to further information.
The English version expands its reach and makes it a truly
international outreach tool.
SPNIs initiatives have helped turn Jerusalem into a
shining example for environmental activism, said Tsur, full
of exciting conservation projects, preserving natural sites and
open spaces while making them more accessible to the public.
SPNIs partnership with JNF has enabled our work in Jerusalem
to achieve unprecedented levels of success and we hope that
these successes will inspire conservations throughout Israel.
The municipality is deeply appreciative of this contribution
to Jerusalem by JNF-USA, and also of the professional and
community work that has been led by SPNI Jerusalem with
such impact and success.
Isaac Blachor, JNF Vice President of Israel Relations,
working with Leon Sokol, co-chair of ASPNI said, Funding
these projects is consistent with JNFs continuing efforts to
be a leading voice in environmentally sustainable projects
in Israel. The community projects described herein all help
to improve the quality of life for Jerusalems residents and
visitors. n
To learn more about JNFs Green Innovations

projects, visit jnf.org/forestry
Preserving Israels History
Yellin House in the Moza Valley.
he story of Yellin House is a story of the pioneer

settlement outside the walls of the Old City of
Jerusalem. It is a story of the past informing the
present and future. It is a story of how the preservation of
a historical site is vitally important in a thousands-year-old
land, one laden with the rich history of the Jewish people.
One hundred and fifty years ago Yehoshua Yellin left
his home within the walls of Old Jerusalem and moved
to a property in the Moza Valley, which was purchased a
few years earlier by his father. At the time, there was no
Jewish presence in the Moza Valley; this land was the first
to be purchased by a private Jewish owner since Jews
started returning from the Diaspora. Yehoshua and his
wife Serah built their home in the valley, the only house in
the area at the time. Today, Yellin House is managed by the
Society for the Preservation of Israel Heritage Sites (SPIHS).
The country house, built in the local style, had three
rooms and a basement, which served as a cowshed for
domestic needs. The house was abandoned during the last
days of WWI; the process of restoration and preservation
began 10 years ago when the descendants of Yehoshua Yellin
decided to collaborate with SPIHS to restore the crumbling
ruins of the estate and turn it into a visitor center.
In 2007, Leonard Kahn of New York/Florida made
a generous donation to JNF, which contributes to the
preservation of many heritage sites in Israel, in order to
restore and revitalize the estate. Kahn felt a personal
connection to the project because his family, who
immigrated from France, was in the dairy farming business.
I believe that this unique and beautiful place will
serve as a source of inspiration for new generations
HERITAGE SITES
to learn, love and appreciate our land, said Kahn.

When I learned that the estate is placed near the
ancient building that was used as a khan (way station)
on the main Jerusalem-Jaffa highway, well, turn
around one letter and you have my family name Kahn.
That was a sure sign this was the right project.
Visitors to the site will have the opportunity to learn
about this important chapter in the history of the Jewish
settlement outside the Old City walls, which started at the
end of the 19th century.
Who were these
The house was
settlers? What was
abandoned during driving them to do
an act that was
the last days of
considered mad at
the time? How did
WWI; the process they survive the harsh
conditions, and those
of restoration
who stood in their
way? These questions
and preservation
and many more are
began 10
being explored at the
Yellin House in Moza,
years ago...
in an engaging and fun
way, including a talk
and a presentation, as well as actual work at the propertya
unique activity in itself.
Serah and Yehoshua Yellins pioneering spirit was
expressed in their settling in the Moza Valley. The decision
to move to the Moza Valley was one of passion for the
land, initiative, pioneering spirit, and decisiveness. To
earn a living, Yehoshua established a khan, a road inn, on

the Jaffa-Jerusalem road. Years later this khan became
the Moza synagogue, which is still active today.
The house is built on top of an exquisite ancient
cistern from the Crusader period, which boasts three
underground constructed domes that were part of a
water system from that era. Other impressive features
of the site include roughly chiseled caliche rock bricks,
quarrying in the natural rock, ornamental openings in the
ceiling, characteristic stonemasons marks, and iron nails.
The visitor center, whose program is presently under
development, will include a display telling the story of
the place; a trailhead for walking tours, bicycle tours and
vehicle tours of the whole area, with guiding materials,
maps and equipment for sale; and a spectacular audiovisual experience. A caf-restaurant will serve delicacies
made from produce grown in the garden and the land
surrounding the house, where one can already taste the
sweetest grapes in the region.
The house, the old synagogue, the Crusaders cistern
and the land surrounding them create a truly authentic,
humble and unique environment.
The site is fast developing, said Ruthie Arbel,
the site manager. In the near future we expect to
accommodate many local and international visitors
who will have the opportunity to experience this special
place, located on the main road between Jerusalem
and Tel Aviv, with engaging tours, unique courses, and
fascinating seminars. n
To donate to historical sites, visit jnf.org/heritagesites
JNF Parsons Water Fund
Maintaining Israel s water balance
An Israeli farmer uses recycled

water to irrigate his crops.
ainy weather is considered a nuisance in

most places, but in Israel, last winters
rain was truly a reliefand a long time coming.
It followed seven consecutive drought years which
brought about serious water shortages, a severe water
resource deficit and an imminent threat to sufficient
urban water supply.
While Israel is now past this immediate hazardous
stage, there are still challenges ahead. This year, thanks
to the higher rain amounts, reuse of treated water and
new desalination plants, the amount of available water
matched Israels total annual water needs (1.872 billion
cubic meters). But, what that means is that Israel is
constantly on the threshold of a water crisis with any
climatic variation or precipitation decline. And as seen
during the seven drought years, there is a constant
overexploitation of water resources, which exposes them
to the threat of increased contamination.
Israel is not alone; the entire Near East is affected by
water challenges. Jordan provides its residents with urban
water supply only once a week. Ten years ago Syria went
from providing regular water supply to water only two hours
twice a week. Water shortages caused 400,000 farmers to
leave their lands and migrate to Syrias large cities.
To meet the increasing urban demand for water in
Israel, significant changes have occurred over the past five
years. There has been an 18% reduction in domestic water
consumption since 2009 as a result of a 40% hike in water
rates and aggressive public awareness campaigns. Annual
per capita consumption was reduced from 28,000 gallons
in 2007 to 22,718 gallons in 2011. Additionally, because of
achievements in urban water delivery systems, the largest
cities experience only an 8% water loss. Desalinated and
WATER RENEWAL
recycled water now account for about 50% of the water

consumed in Israel, and with the goal of desalination to supply
about 90% of domestic water demand by 2017.
Nevertheless, major challenges to Israels water balance
still remain. There are not enough reservoirs to store the
projected amount of recycled
...Israel is
water needed in the future and
Israel must double its current
constantly on
reservoir capacity by 2030.
There is the threat of continued the threshold of
aquifer contamination by all
a water crisis...
sectors through neglect and
overexploitation, as well as
the danger of a loss of vigilance from the illusion that one
good rainy season solves it all. In times of conflict, there is
also the threat of damage to desalination plants. At the same
time, a hoped-for peace agreement will cost much water
and reduce supply. If peace agreements between Israel and
its neighbors are ever reached, Israel will be required to pay
(among other concessions) with water to thirsty Palestine,
Jordan and Syria, over and above what it already gives.
Israels large-scale and very costly water challenges
can only be solved by governmental measures. However
there are still too many areas that are either neglected or
insufficiently attended to by the government. Many of these
issues tend to affect Israels periphery, where governmental
support is uncertain. This is where the JNF Parsons Water Fund
plays a meaningful role.
When my late husband Natan and I, who had been
involved in the water industry for many years, discovered
the world of JNF, we were immediately intrigued by its
potential, said Amy Parsons, Vice Chair of JNF Parsons
Water Fund. After much research, we honestly felt that
through our partnership, we could be part of an organization

that is helping to alleviate the water crisis in Israel.
Constructed wetlands, trans-boundary projects,
recycled water storage and reuse, stream restoration,
research, education, and even water technology and
improved efficiency of water use are perhaps JNFs best
areas for philanthropic investments in Israels water
future. Here, relatively small amounts of funding can be
deployed to achieve a meaningful impact.
The relative advantage of the JNF Parsons Water Fund
is in addressing niche areas. For example, its constructed
wetlands project at the Ramon Air Force Basewhich
efficiently treats effluents of a large military base in a
desert settingmarked the first large-scale environmental
project supported by the Ministry of Defense that utilizes
treated water for irrigation on the base and for surrounding
farming communities while obviating the hazard of polluting
an aquifer and the aboveground environment in the region.
Recently, JNF undertook the Besor Stream Drainage Basin
Rehabilitation program, specifically because it addressed
an issue that needs to operate below the political radar
in a region beset by conflict. Three decades of discussion
between Israeli and Palestinian leaderships have failed
to address cross-boundary stream pollution which affects
the environment, aquifers, and stakeholders on both sides
of the border. The JNF Parsons Water Funds willingness
to join an effort to create a non-political model for solving
this challenge is demonstrative of its mission to stimulate
research in these niche areas. If it is successful, this model
could be applied to 16 other cross-boundary streams. n
For more information about JNFs work with water

and the JNF Parsons Water Fund, visit jnf.org/water
Building the Negevs New Communities

22
JNF.org
Roy and Nofar Molgan and family in Merhav Am.
mproved quality of life. A warm and supportive

community. Strong connection to the land. When
discussing the advantages of living in the new
communities of the Negev, these are the ideals mentioned
by the next generation of proud pioneers.
Our newfound community has built a new social
network of people who share our ideals, a feature I
was missing previously in Mercaz Shapira, said Roy
Molgan, who moved with his wife Nofar to Merhav Am,
near Yeruham, seven years ago because they wanted to
help settle the Negev and live in a tight-knit community
with their two children. The wide open space in our
region is proven to lower ones blood pressure and has
given me a more relaxed lifestyle.
Building new communities in the desert is one of the
mainstays of Jewish National Funds Blueprint Negev
campaign, an initiative to sustainably develop the
Negev and make it home for the next generation of Israels
residents. These communities springing up all over the
Negev have come to flourish and thrive, with the support
of JNF and The Or Movement and the establishment
of basic services and infrastructure.
When Osher and Jessica Kedar first joined the
community of Givot Bar, located near Beer Sheva,
three years ago, there were only a handful of families
and nothing except a few caravans and a lot of sand.
There wasnt even a proper road.
Many people couldnt understand why we would
want to move to such a place, recalled Jessica.
Now, just a few years later, Givot Bar is a thriving
COMMUNITY BUILDING
and sought-after community with many public facilities,

proper infrastructure, and quality unmatched in other
areas of the Negev.
We wanted a sense of a real community, both for us
and for our children, where our neighbors are not just
neighbors, but also friends, she said. Osher especially
wanted to take part in building a new community, to be
a founding member and part of establishing a new yishuv
(settlement) in Israel. It is truly a dream come true for us.
In these new communities, children grow up freely,
playing outside with friends, and problems are addressed
as a community. From making a big pot of soup for a sick
family to celebrating the holidays together to the town
as a whole addressing a bullying incident, mutual aid and
support are defining values.
Said Alesh Bala, a resident of the community of Zuqim
in the Central Arava, There is a feeling of family and a
connection to the land. Most of the families have come
here because of the love for the desert and a connection
to the land here.
He and his wife Eilat chose to move to Zuqim four
years ago with their two sons Sial Daniel, 8, and Faran
Ben Eilat, 6, because of a deep love for the desert,
but also because the ideals of this artist community
complemented their desire to open a business of
natural beauty products.
Since Zuqim was established with the support of JNFs
Sapphire Society in 2001, it has grown from a signpost
in the Arava desert to a large and bustling community.
Zuqim now boasts, among other things, a new preschool,
daycare center, and artist colony. A bed and breakfast

establishment is under construction as well.
The
community
has
been built at an amazing
The wide open
pace, said Alesh. It used
to feel as if we were living
space in our
at a construction site, but
looking back at the speed
region is proven
that everything was built
is amazing.
to lower ones
The new communities
are thriving thanks to the
blood pressure... support of JNF and The
Or Movement, and that
connection is not lost on the community members.
We have found that we have partners, and moreover
brothers and sisters, in our dream of making the desert
bloom, said Roy Molgan. This partnership will only become
even stronger in the future.
Jessica Kedar agrees.
Without the help from JNF and The Or Movement, I
dont think Givot Bar would exist, she said, at least not as
the thriving and flourishing community that we know today.
Every donation, large or small, has a huge influence in our
lives. Every tree, every bench donated is meaningful, not
just in a practical sense, but in the realization that we have
partners in a joint mission of building Israel. n
To learn more about JNFs work with new communities,

visit jnf.org/new-communities
Helping Arava
Farmers Grow
23
JNF.org
Farmer Uri Ganot and his family in Moshav Paran.
ooking out at the desert expanse, its hard to imagine

anything growing in the Central Arava. Yet amazingly,
60% of the fresh vegetables exported by Israel are
produced not in the lush green fields of the Galilee but
rather in this remote, arid region between the Dead Sea
and the Red Sea.
Every day, around five hundred farming families
accomplish incredible agricultural feats in an area that only
gets about of one inch of rain a year. Drip irrigation has a
lot to do with their success, but thats not the whole story.
Central Arava Research & Development is one of a
network of regional agricultural R&D stations in Israel
sponsored by JNF where leading scientists and technicians
work closely with local farmers, research institutes
and universities to increase agricultural sustainability,
profitability, and stability. The cutting-edge technologies
developed at these stations keep farmers at the forefront
of their field, providing them with innovative, costefficient ways to grow produce under arid conditions
and allowing them to compete in the global market.
Knowledge is transferred through meetings, lectures,
online newsletters, and field visits.
We always want to improve the yield and quality of
existing crops and solve problems that occur during the
season, such as bug protection and agro-technology, said
Aylon Gadiel, Director of Arava R&D. We also work to
find new varieties of crops and new technologies in order
to improve farmers businesses.
Ten years ago, the average yield per dunam of peppers
was five tons for export. Today its about 10 tons. We are
aiming to get the yield to 13-15 tons per dunam. Since we

are limited with the land that we have and experience
water quality problems, we must overcome all this in order to
get farmers to get more yield per land units.
The research has helped increase the shelf life
of peppers, one of the regions biggest exports. In
2007-2008, the price of
air transportation made
Every day, around
it unprofitable to send
peppers to the United
five hundred
States, so the Central Arava
R&D began to research
farming families
how to enable peppers
to be picked in Israel and
accomplish
stay fresh for more than
25 days. Also, up until two
incredible
years ago, growers used to
spray with pesticides to
agricultural feats
prevent mildew. However,
food safety qualifications in an area that only
for supermarkets have
necessitated a change in gets about one inch
practice.
of rain a year.
We want to sell a clean
product, said Gadiel.
If we do not stand by
supermarket food safety regulations, growers wont be
able to sell produce to any supermarket in the world.
Now you can see Arava organic products in Whole Foods,
Wegmans, and other high-quality supermarkets.
RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT
Recently, Central Arava R&D was recognized with two

prestigious awards. The first, the 2012 Negev Award
for Environmental Quality, was awarded by Sustainable
Development for the Negev for Central Arava R&Ds and
the Volcani Institutes use of brine for marine aquaculture.
The second, the 2012 Agritech Prize, was awarded to Dr.
Shimon Pivonia, head of the Central Arava plant protection
department, for agricultural research for integrated pest
management in plant protection. His research has helped
growers eliminate the use of pesticides and forensic
chemicals in their crops.
Uri Ganot is starting his fifth season as a grower in
Moshav Paran. Arava R&D carries out a lot of interesting
experiments and I try to use the results to improve my
yield production, he said. It is an asset to have an R & D
station in the area, and I have found it very important
to try new things. For example, the development of the
Capillary Barrier Root Zone System has really helped us
growers in Moshav Paran. I collaborated with Arava R&D
on a progressive version of this system. Today I use all
available knowledge, information, and research findings
in order to improve my yields.
Not all projects are large scale, said Gadiel, but all
the small programs, when put together, get results in the
end. Sometimes experiments have negative results, but
for us, a negative answer is also good because we can tell
growers not to do it. n
To learn more, visit jnf.org/research-development
Zionist Roots Began with JNF

MAX LEVIN REMEMBERS visiting a family friend
24
JNF.org
on an Israel Defense Forces base when he was a young

boy: I got so excited about everything: the base, all the
soldiers. I knew one day I wanted to come back here.
That dream has finally come true. Max, now 19, along
with two other young adults with close ties to JNF, made
aliyah this past August as the first step in their Garin
Tzabar army program. JNF CEO Russell Robinson was also
on the Nefesh BNefesh charter flight that brought these
young people to Israel. At a ceremony attended by Prime
Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the new immigrants were
welcomed to Israel as part of a celebration of Nefesh
BNefeshs tenth anniversary. JNF and Nefesh BNefesh
recently announced a new partnership that focuses on
developing Israels peripheral regions, the Negev and
the Galilee, and encouraging immigrants to move there.
Upon arrival in Israel, all new immigrants receive a certificate from JNF for a tree planted in their honor, thereby
creating an immediate immediate connection to the land.
They want to be part of an Israel that is making the
world a better place, said Robinson. In coming to
Israel, they are choosing to do their part to keep the
Zionist spirit alive and thriving.
Lainey Paul, 19, of Cincinnati, OH, believes that her parents
involvement was a driving force in sparking a love for Israel
at a very young age. Her mother, Nina Paul, is a member of
Makor, and her father, Eddie Paul is advisor to JNF President
Stanley Chesley and Chair of the Environment Committee.
There is definitely a direct correlation between my

and my parents involvement in JNF, and my love for
Israel, said Lainey. Through their involvement my
mother as former Southern Ohio Regional President and
one of the first members of the Sapphire Society and my
father as as JNFs first Midwest Zone President and as
Cincinnati President I have been exposed to JNF in
numerous ways, whether it was making calls at eight
years old for donations to Israel or joining my mom on a
mission trip in Israel to see the latest JNF projects.
Our involvement in JNF has definitely made an impression.
She has a true sense of Zionism and a strong connection to
her Judaism, said Nina. Shes been traveling to Israel
since she was three years old. Theres no question that
she was destined to make this move at this point.
Julian Robins, 19, spent her high school years and summers active in the Conservative synagogue youth movement. She did the Nativ gap year program and spent half
the year volunteering up north in a youth village.
Id already formed a connection with Israel, she said,
but this was when I realized that this is where I want to
be, and not only did I want to live there, I wanted to do
something for the country.
Her mother, Lynn Norton Robins, is JNFs Regional Director
for New Jersey. Before I came to JNF, I knew that if I
was going to do something to take me away from my two
young daughters, it was going to be something that they
could be proud of and be a part of, Lynn said. Through
(L-R) KKL World Chairman Efi Stenzler, KKL board member, JNF CEO
Russell F. Robinson, Max Levin, Judy Levin, and Bud Levin.
the years they have come to events, and their love and
understanding of Israel and JNF became visceral.
Max has always felt a strong connection to Israel when
visiting the country, but also in his home: Israel is always
a topic at home. Its almost a daily part of my life, talking
about Israel.
His father Bud, JNF Vice President of the Negev and
Galil and a prominent member of the JNF LA community,
is proud of Maxs decision to enter a combat unit and do a
full term of army service.
Hes doing something thats great for him and great
for the country, said Bud. Israel needs people like Max
and these other youths to set up their lives there, just as
it did over 60 years ago. n
For as little as $5,000, you can help achieve your financial goals
and those of a nation Israel.
There is more reason than ever to create a charitable gift annuity with Jewish National Fund. JNF offers
planned giving opportunities that give you a generous return, the benefit of tax savings, plus recognition in
Israel. At the same time, JNF receives much-needed support to continue ensuring the prosperity of the land
and people of Israel.
SINGLE-LIFE GIFT ANNUITY* For a confidential

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Lasting Legacies with JNF

ZELDA DON BOLDS connection to Israel was rooted in
during World War II at the Department of Agriculture

and Bureau of Land Economics, Justice Department,
Department of Labor, Department of State, and Defense
Department. As an economist, she retired from HUD as
the Director of the Area Economic and Market Analysis
Division for the Indiana region.
She had a long career in an era when women didnt
necessarily have those careers, said Arlene. She was
a good role model and very well-rounded: independent,
caring, artistic, but also business-minded. We were glad to
have had her in our lives.
ROSALIE JURMARK
Life Insurance: A Vital Part of Estate and Financial Planning

By Matt Bernstein, CFP, JNF Chief Planned Giving Officer
THERE ARE WORSE
things in life than death. Have

you ever spent an evening
with an insurance salesman?
Woody Allen
That sentiment aside,
life insurance is a vital
part of estate and financial
planning. For an exchange of
money called a premium to
a life insurance company, the
beneficiaries will receive the
policy proceeds at the death
of the insured.
As a part of an estate plan,
life insurance allows the insured to pay estate taxes with
discounted dollars. As part of a financial plan, life insurance
provides necessary funds for a family to carry on in the case
of a premature death.
Life insurance can also play an important role in
fulfilling a donors intent to create a lasting legacy with
JNF. This can be done in three ways: through an existing
policy, by taking out a new policy for the explicit purpose
of making a charitable gift, or by designating JNF as the
ultimate beneficiary of an existing policy.
There are many circumstances in which JNF supporters
donate life insurance policies they no longer need. Bruce
Gould, a JNF donor and World Chairmans Council member,
purchased a $1 million life insurance policy for business
reasons. When his business was sold he no longer needed

the coverage, but merely cancelling it would have created
an expensive tax bill on the policys cash surrender value.
Instead, Bruce donated the policy to JNF and created
the Gould Legacy Society,
the
recognition
group
Life insurance
for JNF planned giving
donors. This is a smart,
can also play
tax-efficient way to donate
an important role
unneeded life insurance
policies and do a great
in fulfilling a
deed for JNF and for Israel.
Bruce received a generous
donors intent to
tax deduction based on the
cash value that had built up
create a lasting
in his policy and provided
legacy with JNF.
for a lasting endowment
that will carry on long after
he is gone. Everyone wins on this, said Bruce. If people
knew how easy it was to do, JNF could really benefit.
Purchasing a new policy for charitable purposes is
another easy, cost-efficient way to create a permanent
legacy to JNF. A donor can take out a life insurance policy
and name JNF as the owner and irrevocable beneficiary.
To fund the policy the donor will write a check to JNF in
the amount of the annual premium each year, and JNF will,
in turn, pay the premium to the insurance company. This will
allow the donor to receive an annual tax deduction. Upon
their passing, JNF will receive the face value of the policy.
Marlene Maier is a long-time donor, a Presidents Society

member, a lifetime Sapphire, a Circle of Sapphire member,
and the Northern California Board President. Wanting to do
something important through JNF for Israel, she purchased a
$500,000 life insurance policy and named JNF as the owner.
Her reason, she explained, was that we are part of a chain
of committed Jews who consider it our obligation to ensure
Israels viability for our children and grandchildren.
You can also benefit JNF by naming us as the ultimate
beneficiary of your life insurance policy. Simply request
a beneficiary form from your insurance company and
complete the form with our legal name, address and
tax identification number: Jewish National Fund (Keren
Kayemeth LeIsrael), Inc., 42 East 69th St, New York, NY
10021, EIN#13-1659627.
A good insurance professional can show you how to
structure the policy in a way that reduces costs and
maximizes the potential. Professionals in JNFs Planned
Giving Department can put you in touch with knowledgeable
insurance people who have our interests at heart.
Thank you to Bruce Gould, Marlene Maier, and others for your
long-term commitment to Israel and Jewish National Fund.
Our award-winning Planned Giving Department can help you
with this and many other gifting ideas that can not only provide
legacy gifts to JNF, but can show our donors how to save
tax dollars and provide for their heirs at the same time. n
Give us a call at 800-562-7526 or email us at

plannedgiving@jnf.org
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JNF.org
was a
very philanthropic woman.
After Rosalie passed away, I
had all her mail sent to me, said
her friend Sandy Best, who acted
as executive trustee of her estate.
There were so many requests for
donations to every kind of charity
you can think of.
One non-profit that was close to Rosalies heart was

JNF: she left JNF a bequest of over $2 million in her will.
Rosalie was born in St. Louis and moved to Tampa. She
met her husband Joseph, who was from Poland, when
she was 30 and he was 52. The couple had no children.
Together they owned four hotels at different times on
South Beach in Florida in the 1970s and 1980s.
Rosalie became friendly with Sandy in 1997 when
Sandys brother, who was Rosalies dentist, introduced
them. Over the course of their friendship, they went on
cruises together and would meet every Saturday to go
to temple.
Inspired by Rosalies donation, Sandy hopes to use some
of the money her friend left her to go on a JNF mission.
To be as philanthropic as she was, you can see that
Rosalie was a very sensitive and caring person, said
Sandy. She did a wonderful thing, giving to Israel. It says
a lot about her. She loved Israel.
Rosalies generous donation to JNF will be commemorated
by a plaque at American Independence Park outside of
Jerusalem, which recognizes the partnership between the
United States and Israel.
PLANNED GIVING
family; her cousins who were Holocaust survivors settled

there after the end of World War II. Zelda and her late husband
Elliot Bold visited them a number of times.
Her family was her connection
to Israel, said Zeldas niece Arlene
Lehman Baldwin. Zelda and her husband
were major supporters of Israel and so
was her father Kalman, who was my
grandfather. And thats where she felt
her funds needed to go.
Philanthropy was very important to
Zelda. She left JNF a residuary bequest of over $2 million;
among the other charities that Zelda supported through
her trust are her synagogue, Congregation Beth-El Zedeck
of Indianapolis; the Elliot & Zelda D. Bold Scholarship
Fund at Hasten Hebrew Academy in Indianapolis; Gleaners
Food Bank of Indiana; Alzheimers Association; and Little
Red Door Cancer Agency in Indianapolis.
Zelda passed away at age 96, after living a very full life.
Born in Chicago, the eldest of four children, she moved to
Washington, D.C. where she met her husband and worked
OUT & ABOUT WITH
JNFS MAJOR DONORS

NEW ENGLAND ZONE
JNFS MAJOR DONORS
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WESTERN ZONE
(L-R) Amy Parsons (Century Council, Circle

of Sapphire), Anne Sternlicht (Sapphire
Society), Deborah Pechet Quinan
(Sapphire Society), and National Campaign
Director Sharon Freedman at a Sapphire
Society event where Sternlicht and Pechet
Quinan were pinned.
(L-R) National Campaign Director Sharon Freedman, Ronald Lubin, Michael Blank
(Century Council), Todd Patkin (World Chairmans Council), and Yadira Patkin (World
Chairmans Council, Circle of Sapphire) at the annual New England
Golf Tournament.
Dr. Leon Steinberg (Herzl Society) of Las

Vegas received his new Herzl plaque.
Dr. Garet Gordon (Herzl Society) and wife

Bernice Friedman (Sapphire Society) with
his new Herzl plaque in Las Vegas.
(L-R) Dee Berkley and Rabbi Yocheved

Mintz became JNFs newest Sapphire
Society members in Las Vegas.
JNF.org
Ken and Nancie Segel (Century Council,

Negev Society, Sapphire Society) at
Ammunition Hill, where they dedicated
a plaque in honor of Nancies late father,
Herman Friedberg.
(L-R) Anna Bazak, Rachel Chafetz (Sapphire Society), Larry Chafetz, and New England
Consul General Shai Bazak at the annual Yom Haatzmaut celebration in Newton, MA.
(L-R) Sapphire Society members Rabbi

Yocheved Mintz and Shelley Dubin at
the Quiche & Tell Sapphire luncheon in
Las Vegas.
(L-R) Jeffrey Davis (Century Council,

Presidents Society), Julie Kahn, and
Michael Blank (Century Council) at the
annual New England Golf Tournament,
where Kahn was honored.
(L-R) Sapphire Society members Sharry

Solomon and Joan Davis at the 10th annual
Las Vegas Breakfast.
(L-R) Eric Elkins, Gene Kay (Century Council), Pastor Cheryl Morrison of Faith Bible
Chapel, Mountain States Regional Director Stan Kamlet, and Helen Strait of Faith Bible
Chapel at the annual JNF Breakfast in Denver.
(L-R) Barbara Sommer (Negev Society, Century Council), Helen Loewenstein, Marlene
Maier (Century Council, Presidents Society, Circle of Sapphire), Rose Barlow, guest
speaker Tareq Abu Hamed, Frances Lee Kaufman (World Chairmans Council, Negev
Society, Circle of Sapphire), and Branwen Cale at a board meeting in San Francisco.
(L-R) Jeff Gingold, John Rothmann, and

JNF Parsons Water Fund board member
Steven Crystal (Century Council, Negev
Society) represented JNF Northern
California at an event in Reno, Nevada.
(L-R) Mary Anne Levitt (Sapphire Society);

Branwen Cale, Managing Director of
Friends of The Arava Institute; Dr. Tareq
Abu Hamed, Director of the Center
for Renewable Energy and Energy
Conservation at the Arava Institute; Mort
Gerber; and JNF Regional Director Aaron
Parker at a parlor meeting in Northern
California.
(L-R) Joel Moskowitz (Presidents Society),

Alex Zive, Ann Moskowitz, and JNF
Regional Director Adele Bilewitz at the
Orange County Israel Fair.
Outgoing Palm Springs and Desert Region

Board President Allan Nyman passed the
gavel to incoming President Sheri Borax
(Sapphire Society).
Cheryl and Robert Fey (Negev Society)

were honored at the 2012 Palm Springs
and Desert Region Love of Israel Dinner.
Arizona Regional Board President Ann

Zinman and her husband Ted (Presidents
Society, Century Council) dedicated the
entrance lobby of the second vocational
training center at Aleh Negev in honor of
their fathers, Howard Blitt and Samuel
Zinman.
WESTERN ZONE
(L-R) Linda Church (Sapphire Society)

pinned San Diegos newest Sapphire
Society member Cheryl Rattner Price
at the Love of Israel Brunch.
(L-R) The Belfer Family of Phoenix,

AZJulie, Bond, Grayson, Todd, Sandy
(Sapphire Society), and Harvey (Herzl
Society) at American Independence
Park in Israel celebrating Graysons bar
mitzvah.
(L-R) JNF San Diego Campaign Executive Ezra Erle, JNF Chief Development Officer
Rick Krosnick, JNF national and local Board Negev Society Chair Kim and Bill Miller
(Century Council, Sapphire Society), keynote speaker Steve Emerson, San Diego Board
President Myra Fleischer and Charlie Fleischer (Century Council, Sapphire Society), and
their son Nathan at the Love of Israel Brunch in San Diego.
(L-R) Aaron Muller and his father Dr.

Jeffrey Muller (Herzl Society) with table
captain Karen Fisher (Herzl Society) and
her daughter Leah Levine at the San Diego
Love of Israel Brunch.
(L-R) Ron Kriss (Herzl Society) and

Givatiim Fire Chief Boaz Rakia at a MiamiDade cocktail reception.
JNFS MAJOR DONORS
Phoenix residents Marc and Ellen Kelman

(Presidents Society, Century Council) at
Ammunition Hill in Israel, where both of
their fathers have been honored.
FLORIDA ZONE
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JNF.org
(L-R, back row) Bruce Horovitz, Florida

Executive Director Glen Schwartz, and
Dr. Craig Deligdish (Herzl Society); (L-R,
front row) Dr. Sol Brotman, Pam Korn, and
previous Tree of Life award recipient
Michael Korn at the Jacksonville Tree of
Life award dinner.
(L-R) Jack Selevan (World Chairmans

Council), previous Tree of Life award
recipient Richard Sisisky, and Russell
Selevan (World Chairmans Council)
performed hamotzi at the Jacksonville
Tree of Life award dinner.
(L-R) Beth Morris, Northern Florida

Campaign Executive; Glen Schwartz,
Florida Executive Director; Linda Stein;
Lifetime Achievement Award recipient
David A. Stein (Presidents Society); and
Uri Smajovits, Northern Florida Director,
at the Jacksonville Tree of Life award
dinner.
Tree of Life award recipients Hank and

Nancy Greenberg (Presidents Society) and
Honorable Norman Krivosha (center) at
the Naples Tree of Life award dinner.
Tree of Life honorees Mord and Michal

Wiesler (Presidents Society) with JNF
National Spokesman Hal Linden (right),
who was the featured speaker at the
Naples Tree of Life dinner.
(L-R) JNF National Spokesman Hal Linden

and Dr. Bernie Lubin at the Naples Tree of
Life dinner held at the Twin Eagles Golf
& Country Club.
Bart and Joan Levenson (Negev Society) of

Sarasota posed with the JNF recognition
banner at American Independence Park on
the 2012 Sunshine Mission.
(L-R) Ellen Reisel, co-founder of the Red

Mountain Therapeutic Riding Center,
visited Brenda Johnston (Sapphire Society)
and Eunice Cohen at the Johnston home
on Siesta Key.
(L-R) Gideon Shavit, CEO of the Alexander

Muss High School in Israel (AMHSI), visited
Alisa and Ernie Kretzmer of Sarasota
(Century Council, Presidents Society)
to discuss the opening of the new AMHSI
campus in the Negev.
(L-R) Harvey Hertz (World Chairmans

Council) and Dr. Robert Norman (Century
Council), past award recipients, at the
Tampa Bay Tree of Life award dinner.
(L-R) Tampa Bay Board Co-Presidents

Mark Miller (Presidents Society), and
Betsy Marcadis (Presidents Society,
Sapphire Society) and Diane Goldfeder
(Herzl Society) surprised Lou Goldfeder
(Herzl Society) by presenting him with the
Guardian of Israel award at the Tampa Bay
Tree of Life dinner.
(L-R) Tampa Bay Co-President Mark Miller

(Presidents Society), Tree of Life award
recipient Ida Raye Chernin (Century
Council, Sapphire Society, Negev Society),
Lawyers for Israel Tampa Bay Chair Mary
Ellen Hogan (Sapphire Society), Tree of
Life award recipient Marshall Chernin
(Century Council, Negev Society) and
Tampa Bay Co-President Betsy Marcadis
(Presidents Society, Sapphire Society) at
Tampa Bays Tree of Life dinner.
FLORIDA ZONE
JNFS MAJOR DONORS
(L-R) JNF CEO Russell Robinson with three

generations of the Israel FamilyBrandon,
Sy (Century Council, Negev Society),
Caryn (Negev Society), Debra (Century
Council, Negev Society), Mark (Negev
Society) and Lilyat a lunch hosted by
Mark and Caryn in Orlando for the JNF
National Conference.
(L-R) JNF Orlando President Jim Riola

(Century Council, Presidents Society);
Ellen Reisel, co-founder and supervising
psychologist at the Red Mountain
Therapeutic Riding Center in Israel;
Campaign Consultant Lois Tannenbaum;
and Doctors for Israel Chair Dr. Shari
Yudenfreund-Sujka at a Doctors For Israel
event hosted by Dr. Yudenfreund-Sujka
in Orlando.
(L-R) Jill Riola (Circle of Sapphire) pinned

the newest member of the Sapphire
Society, Dr. Shari Yudenfreund-Sujka
at the Tree of Life award dinner in
Orlando.
(L-R) Dr. Judith Edelman ( Sapphire

Society) and JNF Broward/Palm Beach
Regional Director Laura Sherry at a major
donor thank you event at Canyon Ranch in
Miami Beach.
Florence Soble (Century Council, Herzl

Society, Sapphire Society) and Stephen
Soble (Century Council, Herzl Society) at
a gift annuity thank you brunch at Bnai
Torah Congregation in Boca Raton.
(L-R) Monica Kramer, Eve Pinchevsky,

Todd Pinchevsky, Melissa Lieberman,
Matt Lieberman, Marty Kaplan, Carolyn
Pinchevsky (Presidents Society, Sapphire
Society), Mark Pinchevsky, Ada Pinchevsky,
and Josepha Kaplan during Eves bat
mitzvah trip to Israel.
(L-R) Hank and Ruth Margules (Herzl

Society) with JNF National Spokesman
Hal Linden during a standing room only
parlor meeting in their Wellington home.
(L-R) Laura Sherry, JNF Director of the

Broward/Palm Beach Region, and Irving
Wiseman (Century Council, Presidents
Society) at a special breakfast event
at the Boca West Country Club in Boca
Raton.
(L-R) Zevi Kahanov, National Director of

the JNF Parsons Water Fund, and Michael
Wechsler (Century Council, Presidents
Society) at a JNF breakfast event held at
the Broken Sound Country Club in Boca
Raton.
(L-R) Jan Silverman (Sapphire Society),

guest speaker Ellen Reisel of the Red
Mountain Therapeutic Riding Center,
and Israel Advocacy & Education Chair
Cantor Elaine Shapiro (Presidents Society,
Sapphire Society) at a Moms for Israel
meeting hosted by Jan in Boca Raton.
(L-R) Lee Aronson (Century Council,

Sapphire Society), JNF National
Spokesman Hal Linden, and Bunny Aronson
(Sapphire Society) at an event at the Boca
West Country Club in Boca Raton.
(L-R, seated) Irving Zeller (Century

Council, Presidents Society) and
Lila Lutz; (L-R, standing) JNF Florida
Executive Director Glen Schwartz
and Chief Planned Giving Officer Matt
Bernstein at a gift annuity thank you
brunch at Bnai Torah Congregation in
Boca Raton.
(L-R) Guardian of Israel honoree Bob

Friedland (Century Council, Herzl Society)
and his wife Sheila Friedland with JNF
CEO Russell Robinson at the Westchester
Guardian of Israel reception.
Shirley and Martin Amdur (Presidents

Society) with JNF CEO Russell Robinson
(center) at the Westchester Guardian of
Israel reception.
(L-R) JNF CEO Russell Robinson with Rita

and Charles Salfeld (Century Council,
Presidents Society) at the Westchester
Guardian of Israel reception.
Addison Shuster (Herzl Society) at the

Bayonne Golf Invitational.
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JNF.org
(L-R) Ira Steinberg (Herzl Society), Jeremy

Halpern (Century Council, Negev Society),
and Ari Wise (Herzl Society) at the
Bayonne Golf Invitational.
(L-R) Ruth Raisfeld (Herzl Society),

Executive Vice President and Chief Legal
Officer of the Brooklyn Nets and Barclays
Center Jeff Gewirtz, Deborah Riegel
(Presidents Society), and Arthur Adler
(Presidents Society) at the inaugural
Lawyers for Israel event in New York City.
LOS ANGELES ZONE
(L-R) Alan Weissman, Roy Stillman, Guardian of Israel honoree Bob Friedland (Century
Council, Herzl Society), Larry Frankel (Presidents Society), and JNF CEO Russell
Robinson at the Westchester Guardian of Israel reception.
(L-R) Ruth Pomeranz, Northern New Jersey Regional Director Jocelyn Inglis, Jill
Janowski (Herzl Society), former Israel Emissary Talia Tzour, Doryne Davis, and Chef
Galit Aboodi at the Northern New Jersey Healthy Shavuot cooking demonstration
and dinner.
(L-R) Bruce Gould (World Chairmans

Council, Negev Society) and Adam Belfer
at JNFutures fifth annual Shabbat in the
Park.
Deborah Riegel of New York City

(Presidents Society, Sapphire Society)
visited Aleh Negev and surveyed the
landscaping supported by the Sapphire
Society.
(L-R) Sam and Cheryn Delug (World

Chairmans Council, Negev Society) Karen
Berko-Gibson (Sapphire Society), JNF
CEO Russell Robinson, Joe Hess (Century
Council), David Frank (Century Council,
Presidents Society), and Dr. Morry
Waksberg (Herzl Society) attended a Los
Angeles major donor reception hosted by
Sam and Cheryn Delug.
SOUTHERN ZONE
JNFS MAJOR DONORS
Matthew Herman (Herzl Society) and Jing

Wang (Presidents Society) at JNFutures
fifth annual Shabbat in the Park.
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JNF.org
(L-R) Alan Abramson (Century Council,

Negev Society), Larry Abramson, Steve
Winston, and Neil Freedman enjoyed
a day of golf at the 22nd annual Golf
and Texas Hold Em Tournament in Los
Angeles.
Participants on JNFs Road to Jerusalem Mission at a post-trip get together in Los Angeles.
(L-R, back row) Pam and Mitch Kreitenberg, Michelle Bolotin (Sapphire Society),
Bill Miller (Century Council, Negev Society), Matt Schenker, Orly Sitowitz, Doug and
Felice Williams (Herzl Society). (L-R, center row) Debbie Minas, Robin Muer, Debbie
Muer, Stuart Berkley (Century Council, Presidents Society), Natalie Berkley, Allen and
Marilyn Golden (Century Council, Presidents Society, Circle of Sapphire), Alyse Golden
Berkley (Century Council, Circle of Sapphire, Presidents Society), Kim Miller (Century
Council, Negev Society, Sapphire Society). (L-R, seated) Carole Bolotin (Century
Council, Presidents Society, Sapphire Society), and Myrtle Sitowitz (Sapphire Society).
(L-R) Mechal Perl Antebi (Herzl Society),

Shirley and Dr. Perry Brickman, recipients
of the Cantor Isaac and Betty Goodfriend
Community Service award, and David
Birnbrey (Herzl Society) at the 9th annual
Jack Hirsch Memorial Breakfast in Atlanta.
(L-R) Alan E. Lubel, Lawyers for Israel Atlanta chair; Michael Miller (Century Council),
National Board member and National Community Campaign Chairman; Consul General
of Israel to the Southeast Opher Aviran; Dr. Ken Stein; Gladys Hirsch (Century Council);
Mechal Perl Antebi (Herzl Society); Bill Travis; and Ronnie Porat, Israel Emissary to the
Southeast, at the 9th annual Jack Hirsch Memorial Breakfast in Atlanta.
MID-ATLANTIC ZONE
Tree of Life award recipient Dr. Ken

Stein and Gladys Hirsch (Century Council)
at the 9th annual Jack Hirsch Memorial
Breakfast in Atlanta.
(L-R) Evelyn Berkowitz of Houston

(Sapphire Society) and Dr. Melinda Wolf
enjoyed JNFs Sunshine Mission to Israel.
Herb Bennett (Century Council)

celebrated his birthday with a Blue Box
presentation at the JCC in Dallas with JNF
Campaign Executive Julie Malin.
Gary Lieber of Rockville, MD, (Herzl Society), with his wife Rosanne and son Aaron,
proudly displayed the fire truck recently donated by the Mid-Atlantic region.
(L-R) JNFuture board member Evan Hoffman, Ken Krupsky (Presidents Society), D.C.
JNFuture Co-Chair Danielle Traub, and Baruch Fellner (Century Council, Presidents
Society) engaged new members at a JNFuture event in Washington, D.C.
Washington D.C. Sapphire Society

Co-Chair Gail Kushner (Sapphire Society),
Mitch Berliner, Donna Rosenthal, author of
the award-winning book The Israelis, and
Sapphire Society Co-chair Debra Moser
(Sapphire Society) in Potomac, MD.
MID-ATLANTIC ZONE
JNFS MAJOR DONORS
Baltimore Sapphire Society members

Shelly Malis, Kate Shelter, Sonia Diamond,
Suzie Levene, Erika Schon, Nancy Seff,
and National Campaign Director Diane
Scar at a Women for Israel meeting.
JNF Parsons Water Fund Chair Dr. Morton

Mower and National Circle of Sapphire
Chair Dr. Toby Mower (Sapphire Society,
World Chairmans Council, Negev Society)
at a Baltimore breakfast event.
Leon Begleiter proudly displayed his most

recent JNF plaques in his apartment in
Wilmington, Delaware.
Kate Shelter (Sapphire Society) visited

JNFs Pipes Bridge in Beer Sheva on a
private tour with friends.
(L-R) Gary Kushner (Herzl Society,

Presidents Society) and Dr. Larry
Amsterdam (Herzl Society, Presidents
Society) at a recruitment event for
the upcoming Culinary and Wine Mission
to Israel.
(L-R) Delaware President Joel Friedlander

(Presidents Society), Middle East
columnist and commentator Micah
Halpern, and Delaware board member
Russell Silberglied, following a JNF
Lawyers for Israel event.
(L-R) Circle of Sapphire Society member
Dr. Melinda Wolf (Century Council) proudly
pinned newly inducted Sapphire Society
member Joan Goodman.
(L-R) Herzl Society members Ron and Orly

Shalem and Brett and Suzie Tiplitz at a
donor appreciation event.
Major Gifts Chair Ellen Rosenberg
(Presidents Society, Sapphire Society)
and Dr. Irving Taylor (World Chairmans
Council, Negev Society) at a fundraiser for
the Central Arava Medical Center.
MIDWEST ZONE
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JNF.org
JNF Chief Development Officer Rick
Krosnick (left) and Susan Sachs (Sapphire
Society, Presidents Society) (right) joined
new Sapphire Society member Eileen
Kushner from Long Grove, Illinois as she
was pinned during a family trip to Israel.
(L-R) Guest speaker Yishai Fleisher and

event co-chair Joe Sameh (Herzl Society)
at the annual Chicago breakfast held at
the Chicago Botanic Gardens.
The Chicago Annual Breakfast was
followed by a reception for the Moms for
Israel. (L-R): Moms for Israel reception
co-chair Marisa Mandrea (Sapphire
Society), guest speaker Yishai Fleisher,
and reception co-chair Lori Abrams at
an event following the Chicago annual
breakfast.
(L-R) JNF National President Stanley

Chesley (World Chairmans Council, Negev
Society), with Southern Ohio Regional
President Ron Solomon (wife, Barb, is a
Sapphire) at the annual JNF breakfast,
The Event of the Year.
Former Tree of Life Award recipients

Dick Weiland (Herzl Society) and John
Barrett (Century Council, Presidents
Society) at the Cincinnati annual
breakfast.
(L-R) Rabbi Lewis Kamrass, Nina Paul

(Century Council, Negev Society, Sapphire
Society) and Father Michael J. Graham at
the Cincinnati annual breakfast.
(L-R) Yoni Raab, Phillip Brodie (Presidents

Society), JNF Director of Fundraising
Technology Isaac Heger, Andrew Solomon
(Presidents Society), and Northeast
Executive Director Joel Leibowitz at the
annual Central New Jersey Texas HoldEm
Poker Tournament.
(L-R) Eva Schlanger (Sapphire Society,

Century Council), Louise Dabrow
(Sapphire Society, Century Council),
Mid-Atlantic Zone Major Gifts Chair Ellen
Rosenberg (Sapphire Society), and Evelyn
Spritz (Sapphire Society) at a Moms for
Israel event in Southern New Jersey.
(L-R) Gene Epstein (Century Council),

JNF CEO Russell F. Robinson, and National
Vice President Alan E. Dabrow (Century
Council), at a Tree of Life dinner in
Philadelphia.
(L-R) Rick Marcus, Selma Zeiger (Sapphire

Society), guest speaker David Chudnow
(World Chairmans Council, Herzl Society),
featured speaker Mary Relles (Sapphire
Society), Board Co-President Rusti Moffic
(Sapphire Society), Board Co-President
Enid Bootzin Berkovits, and Wisconsin
Regional Director Sidney Rivkin at the
Summer Happening event to inaugurate
the Wisconsin regions annual campaign.
NORTHEAST ZONE
(L-R) Mark Rattner (Century Council,

Presidents Society) and Andrew Solomon
(Presidents Society) at the annual
Central New Jersey Texas HoldEm Poker
Tournament.
(L-R) Doran Young (Herzl Society), Andy

Rubenstein (Century Council, Presidents
Society), and Steve Squires (Herzl Society)
at the annual Central New Jersey Texas
HoldEm Poker Tournament.
(L-R) Dr. Lisa Ring (Presidents Society),

guest speaker Yishai Fleisher, and Dr. Greg
Storch (Presidents Society) at the St.
Louis breakfast.
(L-R) Peter Seckel (Negev Society), Yael

Septee Kane (Sapphire Society), JNF
CEO Russell F. Robinson, and National
Vice President Alan E. Dabrow (Century
Council), at a Tree of Life dinner in
Philadelphia.
(L-R) Larry Kane, Anchor, Marc Felgoise
(Century Council), Jeffrey Schwartz
(Presidents Society), and Joseph Wolfson
(Presidents Society) enjoyed a Tree of
Life dinner in Philadelphia.
ALEXANDER MUSS HIGH SCHOOL IN ISRAEL
Celebrating 40 Years and Ensuring the Next 40

AMHSI IS PROUD TO BE CELEBRATING
from a 17-year-old who had just attended last summer

to a rabbi who, 23 years after attending, still credits
many of her personal, academic, and professional
accomplishments to her AMHSI experience.
All funds raised in honor of the 40th anniversary help
provide scholarships and enable more students to benefit
from the renowned AMHSI experience. In May, AMHSI
alumni and friends were invited to a fundraising event at
Blue Gallery in Fort Lauderdale, where Russell Robinson,
JNF CEO, and Mark Ziffer, alumnus and local advisory
board chair, spoke about the importance of AMHSIs unique
mission. Renowned Israeli artist David Schluss amazing
artwork was showcased and guests had the opportunity
to meet the artist himself. Owners of the Blue Gallery
have generously offered to donate a portion of all future
purchases to AMHSI with a voucher, available at amhsi.
org/artvoucher.
Co-chairs of the 40th anniversary Joel Reinstein
and Hannan Lis said: After you hear the excitement and
passion directly from alumni and the impact that High
School in Israel has had, its obvious that we continue to
SESSION
December 2012
January 2013
April 2013
Summer 1 2013
Summer 2 2013
DEPART
November 27
January 22
April 9
June 18

June 26
RETURN
January 22, 2013
March 19
June 4
July 30
August 7
Eight-week and six-week sessions available. Call

800.327.5980 or visit amhsi.org
FIRST FULL-SEMESTER
PROGRAM UNDERWAY
The inaugural session of the full semester program at
AMHSI is underway and already a success, as enrollment
continues to increase for next semesters session!
Hanassi Youth Village gathered to celebrate AMHSIs 40th

anniversary and the opening of our new Negev campus
at Eshel Hanassi. It was a memorable evening, with
music, food, karaoke, face painting, dancing, and tours of
the campus.
In October, alumni and friends in the Greater Washington
area of DC, Maryland, and Virginia are invited to brunch
and conversation with Sally Oren, wife of Michael Oren,
Israeli Ambassador to the U.S.
While celebrating the past 40 years, the dedication
to ensure the next 40 years of this transformative study
abroad program is apparent through the support and
enthusiasm of all AMHSI alumni and supporters. Chairman
of the Board Stephen Muss said: We are giving education,
building identity things that shape a persons life and
stay with them forever. How many other gifts can last
a lifetime?
Together, we can ensure the next 40 years of AMHSI and
Jewish continuity! n
More than double the length of the traditional AMHSI

session, the new four-month program develops a deeper
exposure to, and connection with, Israel. Based at the
new campus in the Negev, a joint JNF/AMHSI initiative
at Eshel Hanassi Youth Village, the full semester session
builds upon the core AMHSI curriculum, and also includes
additional features such as Hebrew classes, mock army
training, and a four-day hike across the country from sea
to sea, from the Galilee to the Mediterranean. The semester also includes a week in Poland to study about the
Holocaust, continuing with the AMHSI educational methodology of learning on-site where history took place.
Experience history, gain valuable skills and independence
that will prepare you for college, all while having an
incredible and fun time! Sign up today for an upcoming
semester abroad.
Spring 2013January 27 - May 31
Fall 2013August 25 - December 27
For more information, call 800.327.5980 or visit

amhsi.org/semester
PARTNER PROGRAM
WITH MARCH OF THE LIVING
AMHSI has partnered with March of the Living to launch a
new combined program, enabling high school juniors and
seniors to participate in both programs in one eight-week
session. The journey begins in Poland, where students will
learn about the Holocaust and the history of Jews in Poland.
They will then travel to Israel where their understanding
of the history of Jews and Israel will be enhanced through
AMHSIs renowned curriculum and educational experiences.
The program, taking place April 3 May 27, 2013, will cost
considerably less than doing both programs separately.
Only available for certain communities in North America;
registration deadline November 30, 2012.
For more information, visit amhsi.org/programs#motl
31
JNF.org
its 40th anniversary this year! For nearly half a century,

AMHSI has educated teenagersconnecting them to
Israel and helping them explore their heritage and
discover their identity.
Forty years ago, the Miami-Dade community sent
the first session of students; more than 20,000 alumni
later, AMHSI is an international organization educating
students from all over North America, Europe, and
Australia. It is only fitting that the 40th anniversary
kickoff event took place in Miami, the birthplace
of AMHSI. In January, alumni, dignitaries, board
members, and philanthropists traveled from across the
country and around the world to celebrate. Keynote
speaker Professor Alan M. Dershowitz of Harvard
University Law School spoke about the importance of
AMHSI, the State of Israel, and the connection between
the two. Alumni shared their AMHSI experiences,
achieve our goal providing a path to Jewish identity, a

connection to, and love for, Israel.
This summer, a record-breaking 200-plus students
attended AMHSI programs. On July 5th, the students,
AMHSI staff, board members and students from Eshel
UPCOMING SESSIONS
ALEXANDER MUSS HIGH SCHOOL IN ISRAEL
AMHSI promotes, builds, and strengthens lifelong bonds between youth and Israel through the study of the history and culture
of the people of Israel. AMHSI is a premier academic experience in Israel that prepares students for college and beyond. Since its
founding in 1972, AMHSI has successfully impacted over 20,000 students. To learn more, visit amhsi.org or call 800.327.5980.
ANYWHERE ELSE
THIS WOULD JUST BE AN OLD CITY.
THIS IS THE MAGICAL CITY OF JERUSALEM.
A place different than any other.
Come explore the beauty of Israel
with Jewish National Fund Travel & Tours
Transcend the boundaries of a standard trip with JNFs personal, customized service and one-of-a-kind itineraries. Choose one of our
unique, signature missions, plan an unforgettable private trip with our travel experts, or organize a bar or bat mitzvah celebration.
UPCOMING MISSIONS
BIRD WATCHING AND NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY MISSION:
February 12 - 21, 2013
Visit Israels world-renowned bird sanctuaries, hear from top bird watching experts
and take part in a nature photography workshop.
CULINARY, WINE AND ARTS MISSION:

March 1 - 9, 2013
Explore Israels food, wine and culinary scene while experienceing Israels arts and
cultural institutions.
ISRAEL @ 65: INDEPENDENCE DAY MISSION:

April 11 - 18, 2013
Follow the path towards Israels independence and walk in the footsteps of Israels
pioneers and celebrate the 65th anniversary of the State of Israel.
SPECIAL PROGRAMS AND TOURS

JNF DAY TOUR:
Leaves from Jerusalem every Wednesday. See the Northern Negev and JNF Projects a new and unique Israel experience.
CAARI PROGRAM:
January 9 - February 28, 2013
A 2-8 week program for active retirees that combines community service and
traditional sightseeing.
FAMILY TRIPS:
Custom itineraries for every family.
BNAI MITZVAH TRIPS:

Celebrate your childs special occasion in Israel.
SUNSHINE MISSION:
April 21 - 30, 2013
Travel from ancient times to modern Israel on a unique historical experience Israel
with Hal Linden, JNFs National Spokesperson.
To register for one of these unique tours of Israel or for more information,
contact 877-JNF-TOUR (563-8687) or visit jnf.org/travel

BYachad Summer 2012

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Together

BYachad: The Newsletter of Jewish National Fund

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

This summer, 21 of JNFs young leaders were selected to attend the

To commemorate the 45th anniversary of the reunification of Jerusalem,

18-23 Your Voice in Israel

JNF gives all generations of Jews a unique voice in building a prosperous

WINNER OF THE AJPA ROCKOWER

COVER PHOTO CREDIT: DANNY HADAS

250 multinational corporations invest in Israeli water and energy

companies, including Google, IBM, Motorola and Apple.

30% of the global desalination market and

222 reservoirs store 67% of Israels recycled water.

$280 million in reservoir construction.

The Shafdan, Israels largest and most complex wastewater treatment

people. Its treated water

is injected into an aquifer where it is kept for 300 days, emerging at a

225 wells have been disqualified due to pollution.

1966, Israel had already established a pilot desalination program.

efficiency. It was recognized as a world leader by the United Nations

To learn about JNFs work with water in Israel, visit jnf.org/water

78% of the water in Israel is recycled and reusedthe highest rate in

JEWISH NATIONAL FUND

50% of the water purification field.

There are those who measure

ANYWHERE ELSE Mohel Plants a Tree for Every Bris

BUT THESE ARE YOUR ROOTS

To learn more, visit jnf.org/store

Dr. Steven Adashek performing a bris.

Dr. Steven Adashek planting a tree in Israel.

a place we need to make green and

For information about JNFs Doctors for

Community Expansion at Kibbutz Yahel

MARC KELMAN, VP, CAMPAIGN

Campaign All-Star: Bob Dubin

EVERY YEAR, BOB DUBIN travels to Israel

a long history of partnership with Yahel that has

I have often said that JNF is one of

JEWISH NATIONAL FUND

since 1989, new

JEWISH NATIONAL FUND

ACROSS THE COUNTRY

LOS ANGELES ZONE

NEW ENGLAND ZONE

LOS ANGELES ZONE

Michael Levinson at a JNF Parsons Water Fund event in Atlanta.

3 (L-R) Tony Rubin, Matthew Cohen, Halutza representative Yedidya Harush,

National Director Zevi Kahanov enjoyed an event in Atlanta.

JNF ACROSS THE COUNTRY

Schlaen, and Miami-Dade Region President Ron Kriss at a Miami-Dade board

JNF ACROSS THE COUNTRY

9. (L-R) Former AIPAC San Francisco Area Director PJ Cherrin, Regional

annual Las Vegas breakfast at Temple Beth Sholom.

Steinhauser at the JNF annual breakfast in Denver.

annual breakfast at the Hebrew Educational Alliance in Denver.

Desert Region Love of Israel Dinner.

JNF ACROSS THE COUNTRY

Members of JNFuture at a successful event in

(L-R) Terry Katz, National Womens JNF Campaign for

(L-R) Washington, D.C. JNFuture Co-Chairs Lauren

5.Jim Schiller dedicated a plaque in honor of his father,

George Schiller, at Ammunition Hill in Jerusalem with his

6.Lawyers for Israel Co-Chairs in Maryland Frank Spector and

7.(L-R) Delaware JNF Lawyers for Israel Chair Russell

1. (L-R) Seth Wenig, JNFuture Co-Chair and National

1 (L-R) Central New Jersey board members Mindy Zaziski and