TEVET 5785 ִּכ ְס ֵל ו
Dr. Lior Sasson & Staff Saving Lives Over the Holidays
PUBLISHER LUXURY CHAMBER MEDIA GROUP
EDITOR Jay Shapiro
LUXURY CHAMBER MEDIA GROUP
Israeli Doctors from Save a Child's Heart Deliver Holiday Miracles to Zambian Children In the spirit of the season, a team of Israeli doctors recently completed a humanitarian mission to Zambia, bringing hope and healing to 25 children suffering from critical heart conditions. The medical mission, a testament to the true meaning of Christmas – compassion, generosity, and the gift of life – successfully performed life-saving heart surgeries on these young patients, offering them a brighter future. "Witnessing these children, who faced imminent danger, receive the gift of life during this joyous season is truly heartwarming," said Dr. Lior Sasson, a heart surgeon and key member of the Israeli medical team. "This mission embodies the spirit of Holiday Tzedakah – giving back to those in need and spreading joy and hope." Save a Child's Heart (SACH), an Israeli-based international humanitarian organization, completed a life-saving mission in Lusaka, Zambia, last week. This mission brought together an international team of medical professionals from Israel, Tanzania, and Zambia to treat 25 children suffering from congenital heart defects. In a groundbreaking collaboration, doctors from Israel's Wolfson Medical Center (WMC), Tanzania's Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute (JKCI), and Zambia's National Heart Hospital (NHH) performed open heart surgery and catheterization procedures at NHH. Leading the effort were Dr. Godwin Godfrey Sharau of Tanzania and Dr. Mudaniso Kumani Ziwa of Zambia, both trained by Save a Child's Heart in Israel. They worked alongside Tanzanian and Zambian teams, many of whom have also undergone specialized training in Israel through Save a Child's Heart. Dr. Lior Sasson, Director of Pediatric Cardiac Surgery at WMC, observed firsthand the collaboration of two generations of surgeons he trained in Israel over the past 15 years, as they worked together to save the lives of Zambian children.
"It is incredibly rewarding to see the doctors we trained in Israel now leading life-saving missions and building sustainable cardiac care programs in their home countries," said Sasson. "The specialized training they received at Wolfson Medical Center has empowered them to perform complex heart surgeries and train others, creating a ripple effect that extends far beyond Israel. Witnessing the successful collaboration of these skilled professionals, who were once our trainees and are now leaders in global pediatric cardiac care, fills me with pride and hope for the future of children with heart disease around the world." Since 2017, Save a Child's Heart has worked closely with Zambia's Ministry of Health to strengthen pediatric cardiac care. This partnership has resulted in the treatment of over 100 Zambian children and the training of medical professionals in advanced cardiac care techniques at Save a Child's Heart in Israel, as well as 10 nurses trained in Tanzania. As of 2024, Save a Child's Heart has sponsored medical teams to facilitate open heart surgery and catheterization procedures based on an international collaboration between Tanzania's JKCI, Italy's Congenital Heart Academy Italy, and Israel's WMC. "This remarkable achievement underscores the power of international cooperation and the profound impact of medical expertise on the lives of children worldwide," noted Simon Fisher, Executive Director of Save a Child's Heart. "This Christmas, let us remember the spirit of giving and the importance of extending a helping hand to those in need. The Israeli medical mission to Zambia serves as a powerful reminder of the profound impact that compassion and medical expertise can have on the lives of children around the world."
A COMPLETE UNKNOWN DECEMBER 25, 2024 New York, 1961. Against the backdrop of a vibrant music scene and tumultuous cultural upheaval, an enigmatic 19-year-old from Minnesota arrives with his guitar and revolutionary talent, destined to change the course of American music. He forges intimate relationships with music icons of Greenwich Village on his meteoric rise, culminating in a groundbreaking and controversial performance that reverberates worldwide. Timothée Chalamet stars and sings as Bob Dylan in James Mangold’s A COMPLETE UNKNOWN, the electric true story behind the rise of one of the most iconic singer-songwriters in history. The film also stars Edward Norton as Pete Seeger, Elle Fanning as Sylvie Russo, Monica Barbaro as Joan Baez, Boyd Holbrook as Johnny Cash and Scoot McNairy as Woody Guthrie. Directed by: James Mangold Screenplay by: James Mangold and Jay Cocks Produced by: Fred Berger p.g.a., James Mangold p.g.a., Alex Heineman p.g.a., Bob Bookman, Peter Jaysen, Alan Gasmer, Jeff Rosen, Timothée Chalamet Cast: Timothée Chalamet, Edward Norton, Elle Fanning, Monica Barbaro, Boyd Holbrook, Dan Fogler, Norbert Leo Butz, Eriko Hatsune, Big Bill Morganfield, Will Harrison, and Scoot McNairy
From Bitcoin to Building Bridges: How Cryptocurrency is Supporting Israel’s Future By JNF-USA Staff While your Bubbe’s Blue Box only had space for quarters and dimes, you can now support the land and people of Israel in a new and innovative way with cryptocurrency.
When you think about supporting our Jewish Homeland, what comes to mind? These days, it is the critical needs facing Israel’s residents following the heinous attacks of October 7. The funds needed to rebuild and re-imagine the Israeli communities located along the borders of Gaza and Lebanon are staggering. The need for resources has never been greater and now there’s a new way to support this critical endeavor: cryptocurrency. Yes, you can now turn your Bitcoin, Ethereum, or even Dogecoin into a force for good for the land and people of Israel! Crypto Giving: Not Your Bubbe’s Donation Strategy Picture this: You’re explaining to your grandparents around the shabbat table how you just supported Israel. “You know, Bubbe, instead of writing a check, I sent some Bitcoin to help re-build a kibbutz in Southern Israel.” “Bit-what? How does that help?” It’s not an easy concept to wrap your head around, but cryptocurrency is quickly becoming a modern, secure, and efficient way to make an impact. And now, Jewish National Fund-USA is paving the way for digital giving. Why Crypto? It’s Tax-Smart: Donating cryptocurrency can help you avoid capital gains taxes. That means more of your donation goes to the cause, rather than Uncle Sam. It’s Convenient: With platforms like The Giving Block, converting your crypto into charitable donations is simple and secure. It’s Unique: Be the one to tell your friends, “My Ethereum helped rebuild Israel.” What Your Crypto Can Do in Israel Rebuild Communities: Fund housing and infrastructure in communities devastated by the October 7 attacks. Help the environment: Restore Israel’s green spaces and combat desertification. Emergency Services: Support Israel’s Fire & Rescue Authority as well as Emergency Response Centers in remote Israeli communities Support Programs for People with Disabilities: Empower individuals with inclusive opportunities. Invest in Water Solutions: Back innovative technologies to address water scarcity in Israel
Forever Yiddish 2: More Songs from the Shtetl When: January 25, 2025, at 7:30 PM Where: Aventura Arts and Cultural Center Immerse yourself in an evening of timeless Yiddish melodies with Forever Yiddish 2, a soulful celebration of songs from a world long past yet forever present in spirit. Yitzhak Fried returns to the stage to present heartfelt renditions of Yiddish classics, infused with personal interpretations and emotional depth. Born in post-war Austria, Yitzhak grew up surrounded by the rich Yiddish language and music of his parents’ home. Accompanied by renowned pianist Alan Mason, who has graced stages around the globe, Yitzhak will guide you on a journey through poignant songs and stories, blending laughter, tears, and a touch of humor. Proceeds from this event will benefit Leket Israel, the leading food rescue organization in Israel. The networking reception opens one hour prior to the performance and features light snacks, premium spirits, wine, beer, and soft drinks. Please note that food and beverages are permitted only in designated areas. Don’t miss this unforgettable evening of culture, music, and community! Tickets are available at Ticketmaster!
House Adopts Defense Bill With Major ProIsrael Provisions AIPAC commends the U.S. House of Representatives for including critical pro-Israel provisions in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025. The importance of these provisions is underscored by Israel’s current fight against aggression from Iran and its terrorist proxies. Importantly, the bipartisan defense measure authorizes $500 million in FY 2025 for U.S.-Israel missile defense cooperation. This includes funds for Israeli procurement of Iron Dome, David’s Sling and Arrow, and for bilateral research, development, testing and evaluation. Other key provisions include: Increases and expands authorization of the U.S.-Israel anti-tunneling cooperative program to $80 million per year (a $30 million increase over FY24). Authorizes $47.5 million for new U.S.-Israel cooperation on emerging defense technologies including directed energy, AI, cybersecurity, robotics, and quantum. Requires the Department of Defense (DoD) and CENTCOM to assess and improve cooperation on space and satellite security capabilities with Israel and other Middle East security partners – the STARS Act. Requires DoD to consider the feasibility and advisability of including Israel in the National Technology and Industrial Base (NTIB). Requires the Secretary of Defense and the Director of the Defense Intelligence Agency to provide the Government of Israel defense intelligence, advice, and support to the extent practicable, and consistent with United States objectives, to support Israel's pursuit of the lasting defeat of Hamas, and to assist Israel in either capturing or killing senior Hamas officials. Establishes a new education and training program known as the "United States and Israel Trauma and Amputee Rehabilitation Education and Training Program." Requires U.S. Central Command to conduct annual counter-tunneling exercises with Israel. In adopting these important provisions, we appreciate the leadership of Senators Charles Schumer (D-NY), Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Jack Reed (D-RI), Roger Wicker (R-MS), and Representatives Mike Johnson (R-LA), Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY), Steve Scalise (R-LA), Mike Rogers (R-AL) and Adam Smith (D-WA). AIPAC urges the Senate to quickly adopt the NDAA.
The American Jewish Congress mourns the passing of President Jimmy Carter, a visionary leader and tireless advocate for human rights and dignity. As an organization with a century-long commitment to advancing civil rights for all Americans, we honor his profound legacy of compassion, service, and unwavering belief in justice. President Carter’s leadership on the global stage left an indelible mark. His instrumental role in the historic Camp David Accords advanced Israel’s security and forged a path toward peace in the Middle East. His commitment to combating injustice extended far beyond his presidency, from championing the rights of marginalized communities to supporting free and fair elections worldwide. His establishment of the President’s Commission on the Holocaust, which eventually led to the creation of the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, demonstrated his enduring dedication to the dignity of all people. President Carter’s legacy reminds us that the strength of a nation lies in its commitment to decency, fairness, and humanity. We join the nation in mourning his loss while celebrating a life devoted to building a more just and equitable world. We honor a great American whose vision and compassion will forever inspire our collective efforts to advance justice, dignity, and equality for all. Our deepest condolences go out to the Carter family and all those who were touched by his remarkable life and work.
Israel Bonds & Hadassah Super Bowl Party for Israel - Dallas, TX
February 9, 2025 - 5pm - 8pm CST Hadassah sponsored social event offering the Super Bowl on a big screen w/ refreshments - an Israel Bond donation to Hadassah is required to attend. For more information, please contact: Garry Kahalnik, Registered Rep, Dallas,TX
Garry.kahalnik@israelbonds.com 972-338-2642
BIRD Energy to Invest $7.5 Million in Cooperative Israel-U.S. Clean Energy Projects The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), Israel’s Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoE), and the Israel Innovation Authority held an Executive Committee meeting on December 9, 2024, resulting in the selection of five clean energy projects that were approved to receive $7.5 million under the Binational Industrial Research and Development (BIRD) Energy program. The selected projects address energy efficiency, hydrogen energy, recycling, and storage. BIRD Energy was launched in 2009 under the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 to foster collaborative research and development projects between the United States and Israel. This program focuses on advancing sustainable energy technologies to promote economic competitiveness, create jobs, and strengthen energy security. Projects that qualify for BIRD Energy funding must include one U.S. and one Israeli company or a company from one of the countries paired with a university or research institution from the other. The partners must present a project involving energy innovation that is of mutual interest to both countries. BIRD Energy has a rigorous review process and selects the most technologically meritorious projects and those most likely to commercialize and bring about significant impact. Qualified projects must contribute at least 50% to project costs and commit to repayments if the project leads to commercial success. The total value of the approved projects is $16 million, including $7.5 million in cost-share funding. The approved projects are: Lucy Borchard Shipping (Tel Aviv, Israel) and Newlight Marine Technologies (New York, NY) to accelerate the transition to sustainable shipping by developing and testing hydrogen as a dual fuel for marine engines. Nitrofix (Petach Tikva, Israel) and 1S1 Energy (Portola Valley, CA) to develop the next generation of green ammonia. OASIX Energy (Tel Aviv, Israel) and EN-POWER GROUP (New York, NY) to demonstrate and validate a highefficiency heat pump coupled with dual-thermal energy storage for residential buildings. Phinergy (Lod, Israel) and New York Power Authority (New York, NY) to demonstrate a clean alternative to emergency generators based on aluminum-air technology. Plasticback (Tel Aviv, Israel) and Freepoint Eco-Systems (Stamford, CT) to develop and test chemical recycling of PVC waste streams. Mr. Yossi Dayan, Director General, Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, said: “BIRD Energy leads joint technological projects that contribute locally and globally to creating more innovative and efficient energy systems. It fosters a shared ecosystem, enabling Israeli and U.S. energy companies to collaborate, commercialize, and reach new markets. The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure values this cooperation with the United States to develop technologies and advance initiatives with the Department of Energy to strengthen the energy sector. I congratulate the awarded companies and wish them success in their projects promoting a lowemissions future.” Dr. Andrew Light, U.S. Assistant Secretary of Energy for International Affairs, Department of Energy said: “This year’s selected peer-reviewed projects highlight the strength of the U.S.-Israel bilateral relationship and complementary approaches to energy technology innovation among consortia of U.S. and Israeli companies, research institutes, and universities. BIRD Energy’s tradition of finding unique ways to expand the clean energy economy helps drive climate and energy security solutions for the benefit of both countries and the world. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) welcomes this next chapter in the rich legacy of bilateral collaboration with our Israeli partners through the BIRD Energy program.” Mr. Dror Bin, Israel Innovation Authority CEO, said: “BIRD Energy fosters innovative projects through partnerships between leading Israeli and U.S. companies in renewable and clean energy, aligning with the global trend of investing billions in the sector. The five selected joint projects are the most technologically promising, chosen for their high commercialization potential and significant impact. This initiative enhances the competitiveness of Israeli companies in the global market, leveraging Israel's economic strengths while driving progress in renewable energy research, development, and production.” Mr. Jaron Lotan, Executive Director, BIRD Foundation said: “This year, in particular, the BIRD Foundation is proud to continue its impactful work in renewable energy by selecting and supporting these five outstanding projects. The BIRD team is committed to collaborating with the awarded companies to assist them in bringing their applied innovations to the market, benefiting consumers and society in both Israel and the U.S. We strongly believe in the significant value of partnerships between companies from both countries each bringing their unique contribution to the growth and the commercial success of creative solutions for these markets.”
Natural Gas Discovery in Energean's Block 23 Confirmed by the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure has confirmed a natural gas discovery in Block 23, a license awarded to Energean as part of the 1st Israel Offshore Bid Round, following an exploration well drilled by the company in 2022.
© Photo: Asaf Magal, GPO
The Petroleum Commissioner at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure has informed Energean of his decision to confirm the discovery of a small natural gas reservoir, whose size is estimated by the company at approximately 4-5 BCM, in Block 23. Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, Eli Cohen: "Israel's energy sources hold much economic and political importance, and so I am pleased to be informed of the additional natural gas discovery in Block 23. Israel's natural gas reservoirs constitute a significant strategic asset, with their contribution to state revenues and the reduction of the cost of living for the benefit of all Israeli citizens" The Petroleum Commissioner at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, Chen Bar-Yosef, confirmed today Energean's natural gas discovery in license 23, after an examination of the relevant technical and economic parameters, and in accordance with the Petroleum Law. The application for the confirmation of the discovery was submitted after natural gas was discovered in the reservoir known as Hercules. This is the third discovery confirmed for the company that results from exploration wells drilled following the 1st Bid Round. During 2023, the company received confirmation of a discovery for the Katlan natural gas reservoirs and in July of this year the company received a confirmation of discovery for the Drakon reservoir. The company is expected to drill more prospective reservoirs over the coming years. In the coming months the professional team at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure is expected to complete the validation of its estimates regarding the amount of natural gas existing in the Hercules reservoir.