B'Yachad Fall 2018 by Jewish National Fund

Fall 2018 Bâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Yachad: The Newsletter of Jewish National Fund

jnf.org

Fall 2018 B’Yachad has the largest circulation of any Jewish-American newsletter. We hope you enjoy this issue. Send your feedback to newsletter@jnf.org. - B’Yachad Editorial Staff

INSIDE THIS ISSUE 7

Israel’s Northern Playground

Keeping You Connected with JNFuture

The Great Galilee

B’ YACHAD STAFF

Enjoy all the Galilee has to offer on your next family getaway to Israel. From horseback riding to the breathtaking cliffs of Rosh HaNikra, the Galilee is teeming with family-friendly activities for all ages.

PUBLISHER

Russell F. Robinson EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Jodi Bodner EDITOR IN CHIEF

Daniel Peri

MANAGING EDITOR

Adam H. Brill

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Marina Brodetsky CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Don Morris

ART DIRECTORS

Gaby Garuz Jessica Herschler DESIGN INTERN

Nathalia Tello-Arias DIGITAL PRODUCTION

With over 20 chapters throughout the country and a growing membership of more than 1,000 people, no matter where you are in the country you always have a network of like-minded young professionals with JNFuture.

Greg Weber

JEWISH NATIONAL FUND (JNF) began in 1901 as a dream and vision to reestablish a homeland in Israel 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. JNF strives to bring an enhanced quality of life to all of Israel’s 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 Israel’s water supply, helping develop innovative arid-agriculture techniques, and educating both young and old about the founding and importance of Israel and Zionism.

The Galilee has a bright future and Jewish National Fund is leading the way. Read how we are the driving force in the Galilee’s economic revival, which is attracting new businesses, rapidly developing the region into a desirable place to call home, and transforming it into a top destination for foreign and domestic tourists.

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 800.JNF.0099 or visit jnf.org.

Make Your Mark in Israel Even As You Shop! The next time you shop on Amazon, head to smile.amazon.com and select Jewish National Fund as the charity of your choice. With each eligible purchase, 0.5% will be donated toward the land and people of Israel.

If You Build It, They Will Come A Message from Our President Dr. Sol Lizerbram THERE IS NO other place on earth where within a two hour drive you have the

choice of dining alfresco along the sea, skiing from an elevation of over 9,000 feet, or rejuvenating yourself in a mineral bath at the lowest point on the planet. But Israel is not like anyplace else; it is the land that you and Jewish National Fund call home. Perhaps it is the close proximity to so many choices that explains why travel to Israel is up 19% from last year. It is also why we opened Jewish National Fund’s Western Galilee Tourist Information Center in Akko two years ago. The visitors center has welcomed some 100,000 guests and assisted them in planning day trips and longer stays. Our leadership wisely chose to make this investment, and we are now witnessing the reshaping of the Galilee. One can’t help but be reminded of the often quoted line from the film, “Field of Dreams:” If you build it, they will come. In Northern Israel, between Akko and the Golan Heights, the Galilee comprises 17% of the land of Israel, but is home to a mere 1.2 million people. Residents there face tough challenges. Income is drastically lower than in the nation’s center, and many would rather leave than stay, believing there is no future in the north. Though the situation sounds bleak, fortunately we have identified the challenges and are working diligently to turn things around. Our game changer for the Galilee includes a wide portfolio of investments to create sustainable jobs, educate the existing workforce with the vocational skills necessary to enter the new gas industry, bring at least 50,000 new residents to work in food start-ups, and open a world-class Institute of Culinary Arts to train chefs from across the world. The Galilee has long been admired for its exotic flavors and fertile land. With nearly 40% of the world’s food tech start-ups located in Israel, we will soon open the Beit Asher Food Innovation Center in Kiyrat Shmona for companies to study and develop food security, Agri-Tech, and healthier products to feed the world. To keep people from leaving the Galilee, our Housing Development Fund is providing efficient means by which they can get affordable homes that can be quickly built. This fits in nicely as Galilean residents receive attractive tax incentives. Jewish National Fund has also invested in the town of Ma’alot-Tarshiha with its beautiful Montfort Lake. Visit and you will no doubt be impressed as hundreds of new apartments are being constructed overlooking Jewish National Fund’s Waterfall Street, a series of cascading ecological ponds. Shops, art galleries, cafés, and other businesses will soon open around the lake as well. The work you will read about in this issue is for Israel’s future. We strive to see the north and the south find equal success as the rest of the country because, as Aristotle so correctly observed, there is only true strength if “the whole is greater than the sums of its parts.” You can always reach me at slizerbram@jnf.org

Western Galilee Tourist Information Center in Akko

Campaign Update Bruce K. Gould Vice President, Campaign/President-Elect EARLIER THIS YEAR, during Jewish

National Fund’s Israel@70 Mission celebrating Israel’s 70th year of independence, I spent significant time in the Galilee. As much as I appreciate the vast openness of the Negev’s desert landscape, I cherish and breathe better in the Galilee’s rolling hills and green spaces. I was reminded that it was just eight years ago, in December 2010, that the worst forest fire in Israel’s history swept through Mount Carmel, claiming 42 lives, consuming more than 15,000 acres of Jewish National Fund forests, and causing tens of millions of dollars in damage. And yet, with time, Mother Nature’s guidance, and support from JNF foresters, today you would be hard-pressed to notice the devastation. On the third day of the mission, following a brief stop at Jewish National Fund’s Western Galilee Tourist Information Center in Akko, our group strolled through the cobblestone paths of the shuk [market] and enjoyed some of the best hummus you will find anywhere. As we traveled northward, the marvelous turquoise blue of the Mediterranean kept us company. Considered Israel’s Napa Valley, we also had the opportunity to sample wines and spirits from Galilean boutique vendors, all of whom are members of Western Galilee Now, a valuable Jewish National Fund partner reinvigorating the north’s economic and tourism sectors. The Galilee is also a cultural melting pot, and in the evening we were treated to a violin and piano performance by Jewish and Arab students from the Keshet Eilon music school— a true symbol of coexistence. Northern Israel has so much to offer, not just for tourists, but for Israelis wishing for a great quality of life outside of the hustle and bustle of the country’s congested center. Jewish National Fund is raising $100 million over the next four years to support our Go North initiative, which has the goal of increasing the Galilee’s population by 300,000 new residents. Your gift to JNF’s annual campaign will help achieve this by improving quality of life, infrastructure, housing, employment opportunities, education, healthcare, and yes, the tourist economy that is so vital to the region. Everything Jewish National Fund aims to achieve through Go North begins with you, the stakeholder, and your annual gift. I urge you to visit Israel on one of JNF’s many tours and missions and see our work in action. You’ll leave inspired and motivated to get involved and make a difference (see back page for more details). After all, we only have one Israel—one Jewish homeland. To get involved, contact Bruce K. Gould at bgould@jnf.org Jewish National Fund

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Water Update

Campaign All-Star

By Uri Schor and Talia Tzour Avner

Bernice Friedman An Inspiring Leader

Spokesperson, Israel Water Authority; KKL-JNF Chief Israel Emissary and its impact on water resources is a significant and harsh reality. According to the UN, every continent in the world is already affected by water scarcity. Globally, water use is increasing twice as fast as the rate of population growth in the last century alone, and experts warn that by 2025, two-thirds of the world’s population could face water stress conditions. In the Middle East, and Israel in particular, this is already a well-known reality. Since Israel’s founding, the country’s leadership has striven to close the gap between decreasing water supplies and growing demand. Achieving this goal requires investment in new water resources, as well as in fundamental public behavioral changes. The key to the latter is educating the general public to be conscientious of its water usage, prevent unnecessary waste, and to conserve. The public must know, understand, and be part of the change. This starts with educating the next generation. Jewish National Fund’s programming spans the length of Israeli students’ education, from kindergarten through high school, and includes initiatives such as the Rainwater Harvesting Program and the Stockholm Junior Water Prize. JNF’s Rainwater Harvesting Program is an educational initiative currently operational in 62 schools across Israel that raises awareness about water issues, promotes conservation, and helps schoolchildren develop skills to address environmental challenges. The program, which supplies 95% of the school’s water needs, utilizes plastic tanks to capture rainwater for basic, non-drinking purposes, such as flushing toilets, cleaning, and watering fields. By the end of 2019, JNF will bring the program to eight more schools. For high school students, Jewish National Fund is the main sponsor of the Israeli contingent of the Israeli International Stockholm Junior Water Prize Competition, known as the “Junior Nobel Prize for Water Research.” Held annually in Stockholm, the competition promotes a new generation of scientists to work in water research and is an integral part of JNF’s goal to support higher education in the field of water innovation. JNF is encouraging Israeli students to discover new and creative ways to improve the field of water development so Israel can continue to be a world leader in solving the global water crisis. An educated public allows the Israel Water Authority to turn its attention toward developing new and critically needed water resources. Constant innovation, research, and development of new water resources are required to keep up with population growth and demand. While desalination has helped secure water for public consumption today, more is needed to ensure adequate water supplies for Israel’s future. Facing Israel’s water challenge requires fundamental societal awareness and appreciation for this precious resource. Education—through social campaigns and programming for youth—is an important part in the global fight for water security. CLIMATE CHANGE

Join us this December 10 – 17, 2018 on JNF’s Israel H2O Tour, and see how Israel has become a world water leader. Register at jnf.org/israelh20 or contact Talia Tzour Avner at ttzour@jnf.org 4

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Jewish National Fund

THE TITLE OF MVP

isn’t reserved just for major league athletes. It’s one attributed to genuine and passionate players who inspire and lead by example. That’s certainly applicable to one of Israel’s and Jewish National Fund’s most dedicated leaders—Las Vegas’s very own Bernice Friedman. “Bernice isn’t your ‘run of the mill’ Campaign AllStar—she’s the MVP of the Las Vegas team,” said Ezra Meppen, Jewish National Fund Las Vegas Director. “She doesn’t just give philanthropically to Jewish National Fund—she encourages, energizes, and leads others. Bernice is a doer!” Bernice’s involvement with Jewish National Fund began in 2007 after moving to Las Vegas from New York. Although she had been active in other Jewish organizations, it was JNF’s core mission to build and improve Israel for Jewish people everywhere that resonated with her the most. Following her first visit to the Jewish homeland and seeing JNF projects and sites firsthand, Bernice made supporting Israel and Jewish National Fund her priority. Since that visit, she has participated on several JNF tours and missions to Israel, including two President’s Society missions, and is a dedicated member of the Arava Task Force. Soon after her first visit to Israel, Bernice became an active lay leader, served as Chair of the Sapphire Society, and President of the Las Vegas Board of Directors from 2013-2016. She also proudly serves on JNF’s National Board as Assistant Vice President of Planned Giving. “Bernice admires the inclusive and transparent manner in which Jewish National Fund engages its lay leaders,” added Meppen. “What’s more, she leads by example and gets the community engaged in JNF and Israel, whether it’s by telling people about our missions and tours or getting them involved in a task force.” An MVP leads by example, and on the philanthropic field Bernice does just that. Her passion for Jewish National Fund, Israel, and the Jewish people, is undeniable, and her excitement about contributing to and participating with Jewish National Fund, both in Las Vegas and around the country, are what make her a Campaign All-Star.

Plant trees in Israel in memory of a loved one Plant trees in Israel now at jnf.org/trees 800.542.TREE (8733)

PLANNED GIVING

Make the Most From Charitable Gift Annuities, Appreciated Stocks, or Mutual Funds for Yourself and Israel By Matt Bernstein, CFP, JNF Chief Planned Giving Officer has seen some outstanding gains in the last several years, and has reached historical levels. If you are an investor in common stocks, chances are you’re feeling pretty good right now, but with the end of the calendar year approaching, it’s also a good time to look at the other side of this phenomenon and decide what to do with all of this good fortune. This column isn’t about predicting stocks or market moves, but rather to let you know you have options if you’re looking to lock in your stock market gains, avoid taxes, and earn some income. Supporting Jewish National Fund with a Charitable Gift Annuity is a great option to explore. Not only can you earn up to 9.8% depending on your age—one of the most competitive annuity rates in the country—but your THE STOCK MARKET

gift will be used in vital support for the land and people of Israel. Another easy option is a contribution of appreciated stocks or mutual funds.

Planned Giving Specialists and learn more about how you can ensure your legacy continues on in the Jewish homeland.

Benefits of giving appreciated stocks and mutual funds include:

For more information, please contact Matt Bernstein at 800.562.7526, visit jnflegacy.org or email plannedgiving@jnf.org

··Avoid federal capital gains taxes up to 23.8% ··Receive an income tax deduction for the full market value of your stocks the day Jewish National Fund receives them ··Reduce your Federal and State income taxes ··Capture the appreciated value of your stocks and end the worry of market ups and downs Setting up a Charitable Gift Annuity or donating appreciated stocks, bonds, or mutual funds is very easy to do. Contact one of Jewish National Fund’s

A Legacy of Giving Memorialized in Israel ALPER ABDY GARREN was

a brilliant scientist devoted to the creation and maintenance of public parks for which he made a generous gift, upon his passing, to Jewish National Fund. Born on April 30, 1925 in Oakland, CA, he was a thoughtful and scholarly man. He attended the United States Naval Reserve Midshipmen's School, the University of Notre Dame, and served as a Commissioned Lieutenant in the United States Naval Reserve through 1947. He received his B.A. and M.A. from the University of California, Berkeley, and his Ph.D. in physics from Carnegie Institute of Technology in 1955. As a Particle Physicist at Berkeley Lab, Dr. Garren collaborated and worked closely with scientists around the world, sharing his ideas with colleagues and mentoring his young students. Dr. Garren was raised in a family that was very active in the local Jewish community. He had a passion for traveling and was especially drawn to the culture and people of Asia. He also enjoyed the performing arts and was a patron of the San Francisco Opera, the San Francisco Symphony, and the Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra. Philanthropically, Dr. Garren generously supported some 200 environmental, human rights, and performing arts organizations. “Al was a sweet, kind, generous man who made friends easily and kept them for life,” said Jon Eisenberg, Dr. Garren’s longtime friend and trustee. “He was beloved

and treasured by all who knew him.” His enormous circle of friends included family friends dating back to his childhood, lifelong friendships that began during his university years at the International House Berkeley, colleagues at Berkeley Lab and Brookhaven National Laboratory, his sailing partners in the antique vessel, "The Vixen," friendships cultivated during his extensive travels, and many others who were drawn to his charisma and personality. Upon his passing on June 25, 2017, Dr. Garren left a generous bequest in his trust to Jewish National Fund, with the request that the gift be used for the creation and maintenance of public parks in Israel. Together with its partners and projects, Jewish National Fund re-established the ancestral Jewish homeland in modern Israel, planted more than a quarterbillion trees in what was once a barren desert, and built hundreds of vibrant, bustling communities throughout the country. Through his bequest to Jewish National Fund, Dr. Garren’s legacy lives on in the Jewish homeland while helping the land and people of Israel continue to prosper and grow.

To leave your legacy and read other stories of people who have left their estates to Jewish National Fund, visit jnflegacy.org or call 800.562.7526

Take advantage of the last great tax break with your Charitable IRA Rollover Support Jewish National Fund in a simple and easy way If you are 70 ½ or older, you can rollover up to $100,000 from your IRA to JNF. ··To qualify, transfer must go directly from your IRA to JNF ··Gifts made from your IRA (up to $100,000 per year) are not reportable as taxable income ··The gift must be an outright gift, but can be used to satisfy existing pledges ··The gift will qualify for your required minimum distribution

Contact our Planned Giving Specialists 800.562.7526 · jnflegacy.org

Planned Giving

B'Yachad

FOOD & WINE

Stern Winery Food, wine, and Galilean hospitality Johnny Stern, a Brazilian born immigrant who moved to Israel with his family at the age of 17, made the bold decision to open his own winery, Stern Winery. He realized his true calling lay with the vines of his winery, located in Kibbutz Tuval, a picturesque community in the hills of the Western Galilee. Before realizing this dream, however, he lived a dual life for nearly six years: as a sales manager for a company manufacturing industrial adhesives, machinery oil, and metal treatments, and as an artisanal wine producer in Israel’s budding boutique wine industry. Today, Stern Winery produces award-winning wines. Guests can take experiential tours of the vineyards and end their visit with a scrumptious and elaborate meal in the visitor’s center, where Stern exhibits his affinity for cooking and hospitality. IN 2004,

“[At the table] there is a lot of energy… the wines bring everyone closer and open the guests’ hearts.”

Each person who walks through the doors immediately feels right at home in the intimate and comfortable atmosphere, and Stern often joins his guests at the table. “Everyone gets to know each other during the meals because they sit around a massive table together. We designed it this way on purpose,” said Stern. “There is a lot of energy and, of course, the wines bring everyone closer and open the guests’ hearts.” Stern curates all of the meals, which typically consist of 8–10 gourmet dishes, each paired with a different wine from his winery. A selection of wines are certified kosher. “By the end of the meal, they don’t want to go home.” Stern brings a unique flavor and pizzazz to a traditional winery while including a true and delectable Galilean culinary experience. His love for food and wine is evident in every detail of the Stern Winery experience. A favored appetizer that pairs beautifully with Stern’s Sauvignon Blanc is this refreshing ceviche. Check out the recipe below for how to recreate this tasty dish at home. To plan a tour of Stern Winery, visit stern-winery.co.il/en

Stern Winery’s White Fish Ceviche with Fruit Serves 6 Wine Pairing: Sauvignon Blanc INGREDIENTS:

·· 2/3 lb. of fresh semi-firm white fish, finely cubed (Red drum fish, Great Amberjack, or Mahi Mahi) ·· 1 red bell pepper, finely diced ·· 1 yellow bell pepper, finely diced ·· 1 scallion, finely diced ·· 1 small red onion, finely diced ·· 1 pear (or nectarine), finely diced ·· 1 small hot green chili pepper, finely diced ·· 1 kiwi, finely diced FOR GARNISH:

DIRECTIONS:

·· Mix ingredients together in a large bowl 20 minutes before serving. ·· Place a heaping tablespoon of the ceviche mixture in each bowl. ·· Garnish with olive oil, coarse salt, pepper, and lemon juice, and serve immediately.

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Food & Wine

PHOTO BY MEME INGE

·· 1 lemon, juiced ·· Olive oil, coarse salt, and black pepper ·· Balsamic vinegar

TRAVEL & TOURS

Israel’s Northern Playground The Galilee is teeming with family-friendly activities for all ages. From horseback riding to puppet theaters, the north has exciting and engaging activities for everyone. Check out Jewish National Fund’s partner sites on your next visit to Israel. To learn more, call 212.879.9305 x256 or email kwold@jnf.org

Hefer Ranch Enjoy horseback rides or an exciting jeep tour with the whole family along Israel’s northern border at this unique farm that is run on the principles of sustainability. meshekhefer.com · +972.52.583.2532

Teva Ez

Zikit Theater

This goat farm is bound to excite the inner child in everyone. In addition to playing with the farm’s goats, enjoy a cheese platter at the on-site dairy restaurant!

Located in the village of Tefen, this theater produces family-friendly shows, including puppet shows and silent plays. thegalilee.org · +972.4.987.2111

teva-ez.com · +972.50.688.7242

Cooking Workshops Visit Chef Hagit Lidror’s cooking workshop and learn about the tastes, smells, and colors of the Galilee’s cuisines in culinary workshops tailored for parents and children. hagitlidror.co.il/pws · +972.52.646.4884

Plan your next family getaway to Israel with Jewish National Fund Register today for the Hadassah-Jewish National Fund Israel Family Tour at jnf.org/HadassahJNFtour

Learn more about Jewish National Fund's other travel opportunities 877.563.8687 · travel@jnf.org · jnf.org/travel Travel & Tours

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WOMEN FOR ISRAEL

Impacting Lives One Medical Center at a Time Making healthcare accessible in Israel’s desert communities By Sheryl Buchholtz of life’s basic necessities. Caring for one another and ensuring each other’s wellbeing is also an element in Judaism—one that I, as a healthcare provider for nearly 40 years—have tried to always bear in mind. In recent decades, Israel has made a name for itself as a leader in the global medical field with groundbreaking innovations, discoveries, and treatments. Yet, in the country’s periphery, which includes the Negev Desert, there are few medical centers and it can sometimes be up to a two hour drive to the nearest hospital. It was 10 years ago, while visiting Israel on my first Jewish National Fund mission, that I saw the impact JNF has on the lives of all Israelis. I had known of Jewish National Fund’s work building reservoirs, planting trees, and, of course, the Blue Box, which was always present in my childhood home. But it wasn’t until I went on my first JNF mission to Israel with my sister, Sheila, when I saw the state-of-the-art medical centers being built in desert communities deep in the Negev that I got hooked. I knew I wanted to make a HEALTHCARE IS ONE

“The most touching moments for me as a healthcare provider, a mother, and an active member of Women for Israel are when I meet the incredible expectant mothers from one of Israel’s desert communities.”

difference in the lives of the Israeli Sheryl Buchholtz and her daughters in Israel pioneers in the desert, and realized that Women for Israel is the perfect means for me to make an impact. Jewish National Fund’s Women for Israel campaign has been an integral part in ensuring that quality healthcare is available in even the most remote parts of Israel. In Halutza, a collection of communities adjacent to Gaza and Egypt, expectant mothers and their children no longer have to drive two hours to Be’er Sheva’s Soroka Hospital for a check-up, thanks to the new JNF-Helmsley Charitable Trust Medical Center. I marvel at the accomplishments made in the town of Sapir in the Central Arava, an area its Women’s Division, these mothers to-be are relieved of Israel home to nearly 8,000 people, and unfortunately of the worry about needing to travel to Be’er Sheva for also an area with a high rate of car accidents on Route 90, an appointment or caring for a sick child in the middle the main highway to Eilat. The Danielle A. and Irving of the night. I am even more excited as JNF and the J. Grossman JNF-Arava Medical Center—and the soon Kiryat Shmona and Upper Eastern Galilee Task Force, to be completed Nancy Simches Emergency Response which I am honored to be a member of, begin to embark Center next door—has saved hundreds of lives and can on similar programs and services for communities in rival any medical center found in Tel Aviv or elsewhere Northern Israel. in central Israel. Not only are people of all ages benefiting This is Women for Israel and its impact. Not only are from these revolutionary medical institutions, but the women helping women, but together we have the ability establishments are also bringing healthcare providers to to ensure each other’s wellbeing and positively change live in the area, thereby growing the region’s population. people’s lives. Join me and help make a difference in the The most touching moments for me as a healthcare lives of Israel’s pioneers. provider, a mother, and an active member of Women for Sheryl Buchholtz is a Board Certified Registered Nurse and Chair of Israel are when I meet the incredible expectant mothers the New York Jewish National Fund Women for Israel Board. To get from one of Israel’s desert communities. It fills my involved in Women for Israel, contact Sharon David at sdavid@jnf.org or call 212.879.9305 x242 heart to hear that thanks to Jewish National Fund and

Jewish National Fund's Speakers Bureau Engages your audience with one of its many inspirational leaders. Let Jewish National Fund connect you to the most fascinating speakers with expertise on topics ranging from current affairs and the Middle East to technology, Jewish culture, and more. Bari Weiss, Writer and Editor, New York Times Op-Ed Page

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Women for Israel

Book Your Speaker Today! 212.879.9307 · speakers@jnf.org · jnf.org/speakers

JNFUTURE

Community Wherever You Go JNFuture’s network keeps you connected across the country By McKenzie Ragan in rural Oregon, in a town with seven Jewish families and the nearest synagogue an hour away, learning about Judaism, Israel, and having a community was important in my family. During the winter holiday season, my mother would volunteer at my school and teach students in my class about the significance of Chanukah, with latkes of course. Looking back, those moments set me on the path toward building and finding Jewish communities and forging lasting relationships based on the common understanding of, and love for, Israel, no matter where I was. It was even easier to connect with Israel when I entered college, where GROWING UP

A turning point in my life was in 2017, when my boyfriend, Evan, and I went to Israel on the JNFuture Volunteer Vacation, a unique experience where you are able to make tangible, hands-on differences for the land and people of Israel. We not only saw Israel through a different lens by working on projects, but we also made lifelong friends. I returned from Israel with a passion to make a difference: I became an active member on JNFuture’s Phoenix Board, and later served as its Vice President. In late 2017, Evan and I decided to move to San Francisco, a difficult decision since we did not have a network of friends in the Bay Area. Prior to leaving Phoenix, I was told that the Bay Area JNFuture chapter was growing and their Board was looking for new leadership. As I experienced in Phoenix, the chapter immediately welcomed us into its community. Their passion for Israel was astonishing and I instantly made new friends. There’s simply no better Zionist organization out there offering such an amazing experience for young adults and professionals like Jewish National Fund does. Not only has JNF connected me with friends in new cities and helped me build an international community, but I have also benefitted professionally in my career as a full-time recruiter with the experience I gained growing JNFuture’s Phoenix chapter. Today, more organizations and companies are valuing employees who engage in community involvement. Being involved in Jewish National Fund and JNFuture has helped shape me into a better employee by teaching me leadership skills, community development, fundraising, as well as always providing me with a network of like-minded people. Today I’m the President of JNFuture’s San Francisco chapter, and we are ready to take a big step forward. Our board is moving onward together by building and recruiting. Join me and hundreds of other JNFutures and sign up to for JNFuture Volunteer Vacation, December 23–29, 2018, and experience your life-changing moment.

“No matter where you are in the country, you have a group of friends who share your love of Israel and Jewish National Fund.”

there were always organizations and events. When I moved to Salt Lake City after graduation, I was quick to find other young Jewish transplants to share Jewish holidays with, creating bonds and relationships. It wasn’t until I began my career in investment banking that I realized my passion: forging connections and sustaining relationships with people in organizations. It was something I wanted to do every day. A position in operations and human resources at a mutual fund in Phoenix was the perfect fit. That was also when I became involved with Jewish National Fund and JNFuture. With over 20 chapters throughout the country and a growing membership of over 1,000 people, JNFuture was that network of young professionals, ages 22-40, I was always drawn to. No matter where you are in the country, you have a group of friends who share your love of Israel and Jewish National Fund. As soon as I arrived in Phoenix, I decided to get more involved. I wanted to help make a difference for Israel and the Jewish people.

Jewish National Fund

VOLUNTEER VACATION:

FOR AGES 25 – 35 December 23 – 29, 2018 HIGHLIGHT S

• Spend an exciting and meaningful week volunteering in Israel’s Southern region • Make a lasting impact on people who call the Negev Desert home • Pay it forward while getting your hands dirty with your peers • Build something you can call your own, and deepen your connection to the land and people of Israel

P R IC E & DE TA IL S • Participants are required to commit to a minimum fundraising goal that will go toward Blueprint Negev, JNF’s groundbreaking initiative to revitalize Southern Israel. • Fundraising Goal: $1,800 • Deposit: $250 at time of registration

jnf.org/travel ∙ 877.563.8687 To learn more about joining JNFuture, please contact Anne Tishkoff at atishkoff@jnf.org or 212.879.9305 x297 JNFuture

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JEWISH NATIONAL FUND

ACROSS THE COUNTRY FOR INFO ON UPCOMING JNF EVENTS, VISIT JNF.ORG AND CLICK ON “JNF IN YOUR AREA”

SOUTHERN

MIDWEST TEXAS

ILLINOIS

Shari and Stuart Schwartz at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in El Paso.

(L-R) Omar, Ana Victoria, Pastor Anselmo, and Ana Lilia Villalobos at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in El Paso.

Irasema Ontiveros and JNF CEO Russell F. Robinson at JNF’s 2017 Interfaith Mission Reunion in El Paso.

MIDWEST STATES

(L-R) Treymane Smith with Francine and Harvey Cantor at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in St. Louis.

Annette and Jack Heller at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in St. Louis.

(L-R) Rabbi Steven Rubenstein, Beth Nadis, Alon Ben-Gurion, and David Goodman at a dessert reception in Detroit.

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Across the Country

(L-R) Lisa Vinocur, Northern Ohio Board Member Susie Kopit, and Rabbi Rosie Haim at a Women for Israel (WFI) luncheon in Cleveland.

(L-R) Mark and Ruth Elliott host JNF-MAKOM Liaison Shosh Mitzman for a parlor meeting in their home in Cleveland.

(L-R) Penny Greenberger and Northern Ohio Board Member Joni Wasserman at a WFI luncheon in Cleveland.

(L-R) Guest speakers Tremayne Smith and Ambassador Ido Aharoni with event Co-Chairs Helene Berns and Gordon Schwartz at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in Chicago.

OHIO VALLEY

(L-R) Congressman Brad Schneider, Consul General of Israel to the Midwest Aviv Ezra, Chicago Board President Deb Lust Zaluda, and Chicago Board Member Scott Gendell at the Yom Ha’atzmaut Community Celebration in Chicago.

NORTHERN OHIO

WISCONSIN

Michelle and Ohio Valley Board Member Morry Wiener 1. (L-R) Guest speaker Alon Ben-Gurion, Nancy Barnett, Sue Strait, and Marsha Denny at JNF’s Breakfast for at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in Cincinnati. Israel in Milwaukee. 2. (L-R) Sandy Kaltman and Ohio Valley Chairman of the Board Jan Armstrong Cobb at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel 2. (L-R) Event Chairs Ellen Schneiderman, Rachel Steele, and Scott Steele at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in Milwaukee. in Cincinnati. 1.

(L-R) Ambassador Danny Ayalon, Ohio Valley Board President Dr. Ronna Schneider, Ohio Valley Board Member Morry Weiner, and JNF Ohio Valley Executive Director Eric Goldstein at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in Cincinnati.

MID-ATLANTIC BALTIMORE

WASHINGTON DC

(L-R) Naomi Amsterdam, Debbie Spector, and Allie Spector at a Women for Israel (WFI) event in Baltimore.

The JNF-MAKOM Partnership visits JNF’s Washington D.C. Board of Directors.

(L-R) Rachel Klein and Phyllis Brown at a Chai Society presentation at a WFI event in Baltimore.

(L-R) Co-Creator and star of “Fauda” Lior Raz, Maryland Board President Orly Shalem, and JNF Mid-Atlantic Executive Director Stuart Diamant-Cohen in Baltimore.

(L-R) Rabbi Weinblatt presents JNF Mid-Atlantic Executive Director Stuart Diamant-Cohen with a contribution from Congregation B’nai Tzedek in Potomac.

Members of Congregation B’nai Tzedek visit Ammunition Hill in Israel.

Leslie and Ron Goldberg at a local winery in Northern Israel.

JNFuture members at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in Washington, D.C.

(L-R) Guest speaker and Author Jennifer Weiner with JNF Maryland Board President Orly Shalem at a WFI event in Baltimore.

Richard and Ann Hantgan at Ammunition Hill’s Wall of Honor in Israel.

NORTHEAST DELAWARE

CENTRAL NEW JERSEY

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EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA

NORTHERN VIRGINIA

(L-R) Event Co-Chairs Rabbi Mendel Solomon, Andrew Bronsnick, Jessica Abramovici, 1. (L-R) Ken and Amy Brown with Tree of Life™ Award Honorees Alan and Louise Dabrow, and Rachel and Dan Brown and Maida Richlin with guest speaker Alan Dershowitz and Central NJ Board at the Tree of Life™ Award Dinner in Philadelphia. President Saul Sutton at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in Livingston. 2. (L-R) Tree of Life™ Award Dinner Co-Chairs Joseph Wolfson, Ellen Holtzman, and Bonnie and Mitchell Benson at the 2. (L-R) Isaac Massry and David Massry at the 10th Annual JNF Golf Invitational at Tree of Life™ Award Dinner in Philadelphia. Northern Virginia the Bayonne Golf Club. 3. (L-R back row) Eastern PA Board Members Fredric Cohen, Joseph Wolfson, Jeffrey Schwartz, Robert Kitchenoff, (L-R) Chet Stein, Ken Krupsky, guest speaker 3. (L-R) Ira Steinberg, Jeremy Halpern, and Ari Wise at the 10th Annual JNF Golf Jay Minkoff, Eastern PA President Scott Barsky, Louise Dabrow, Jackie and Dale Danilewitz, and Boris and Natalie Ambassador Ido Aharoni, and D.C. Board President Gary Invitational at the Bayonne Golf Club. Vishnevsky. (L-R front row) Ellen Holtzman, Lori Dabrow, JNF Eastern PA & Southern NJ Executive Director Kushner at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in Fairfax. Marina Furman, JNF CEO Russell F. Robinson, Michael Boni, and Evelyn Spritz at the Exclusive Israel@70 Celebration in Bucks County. Delaware (L-R) Seth and Joel Friedlander, with JNF-Green Horizons Liaison Ido Reichman-Eisikovits, and Julie Sandler at a Green Horizons luncheon in Georgetown.

Across the Country

B'Yachad

GREATER NEW YORK SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY

NORTHERN NEW JERSEY

NEW YORK CITY

8 1

1. (L-R) Renee Danziger with Tremayne Smith, Susan (L-R) Southern NJ Board Members Roxanne Jayne, Leonard Wizmur, Helene Monane, and Patricia Watkins at a Northern NJ Major Blumenfeld, Eva Schlanger, Southern NJ President Betsy Fischer, Robert Benedon, Donor Thank You reception in Alpine. Shelly Abramson, David Bross, and Cindy Silvert at a board meeting at Betsy Fischer’s Groove Lounge in Voorhees Township. 2. (L-R) Event Co-Chair Bruce Pomerantz and Michael Bodner at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in Rockleigh. 2. Women for Israel (WFI) members at an annual Thank You event hosted at the home of Eva Schlanger in Cherry Hill. 3. Barabra Smolin and Howard Kaufman at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in Rockleigh. 3. (L-R) Southern NJ Board Member Dr. Robert Benedon with Event Co-Chairs David Bross and Marsha Raab, Tree of Life™ Honoree Congressman Donald Norcross, ™ and Event Co-Chair Leonard Wizmur at the Tree of Life Award Dinner in Voorhees Township. 1.

Manhattan Day School students at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in NYC.

Jonathan Gertman and Zoe Weitzman at Shabbat in the Park in NYC.

Roy Kirsh at the Young Real Estate Professionals Briefing with Kobi Marom at the Ronald S. Lauder JNF House in NYC.

Matt Spiegel and Dara Levine at Shabbat in the Park in NYC.

Event Co-Chairs Zach Ehrlich and Lauren Newcorn at Shabbat in the Park in NYC.

(L-R) William Snyder with Seth Neidermayer, Ken Ziman, and Randall Eisenberg at the annual Theodor Herzl Leadership Award Dinner in NYC.

NEW ENGLAND WESTCHESTER COUNTRY & SOUTHERN CONNECTICUT

BOSTON

10 1

10 2 1.

(L-R) Temple Israel Center Associate Rabbi Ari Isenberg-Grzeda, Event Co-Chairs Andrew and Jessica Levinson, Stephanie Risa Balkin, and Westchester & Southern CT Co-President Caren Hammerman at the 2nd Annual Positively Israel Reception in White Plains.

Nancy Michaels and Westchester & Southern CT Board Member Ruth Raisgeld at the 2nd Annual Positively Israel Reception VIP Dinner in White Plains.

Westchester Young Moms Circle during the spring season kick-off event in Scarsdale.

B'Yachad

Across the Country

10 4

(L-R) AMHSI-JNF Impact Fund recipients Ryann Bloom and Patrick Briggs, with Impact Funder Joanne Linowes Alinsky, and Impact Fund recipients Jacob Seletz and Arianna Weiner in Newton.

(L-R) Boston Board of Trustees Member Jeffrey Glassman, JNF Executive Director of New England and the Capital District Sara Hefez, and Mitch Katzman at a Lawyers for Israel (LFI) event hosted by Nixon Peabody in Boston.

(L-R) Chad Kramer, Rachel Woolf, JNFuture Boston Chair Liz Harris, Gali Gordon, Boston Board of Directors Member and Host Jonathan Plaut, and Marlena Grutzmacher at the JNFuture Shabbat in the Hub in Boston.

(L-R) JNFuture Boston Events Chair Caitlin Whittemore, JNF CEO Russell F. Robinson, and JNFuture Boston Chair Liz Harris visit the Nefesh B’Nefesh Hub in Tel Aviv.

(L-R) National Vice President of Communities Michael Blank, Eric Dyer, and Boston President Steve London at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in Albany.

(L-R) AMHSI-JNF alumna Ruby Russell, New England Sapphire President Rhonda Forman, New England Women for Israel (WFI) Chair Risa Aronson, and guest speaker Nina Manolson at a WFI event in Newton.

National Vice President of Communities Michael and Pat Blank light the torch at the Yom HaZikaron ceremony at Ammunition Hill in Jerusalem.

(L-R) JNFuture Boston Vice Chair Leonard Aronson, JNFuture Campaign Executive Gali Gordon, JNF New England Campaign Executive Rina Wagman, Jared Stein, Nicole Strauss, and JNFuture Boston Marketing & Education Chair Lisa Shakun at a Major Donor Thank You event in Newton.

WESTERN CAPITAL REGION

10 1

ARIZONA

10 1

(L-R) Guest speaker Izzy Ezagui with Event Co-Chairs Lauren Iselin and Alan Lobel at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in the Capital Region.

(L-R) Joyce and Bruce Pastor with Dorothy and Capital Region President Robert Ganz at a JNF dinner in Newton.

(L-R) Juliet Spiesman Burgess and Ellen Lawson at a Women for Israel (WFI) luncheon at the Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix.

(L-R) Suzanne Berger, Beth Katz, and Elizabeth Bornstein at a Professional Women’s Cooking Demonstration in Phoenix.

(L-R) Sam Lawson, Scott Weiner, and David Luksenburg at a JNFuture Men’s Night event in Scottsdale.

(L-R) National Vice President Israel Relations Committee Ken Segel, Susan NovotnyRoland, and Keith Roland visit the 9/11 Living Memorial during JNF’s Israel@70 Mission. (L-R back row) Izzy Ezagui, Capital Region Board Member Dick Weisz, Capital Region President Robert Ganz, Capital Region Board Members Alan Lobel and Karen Hausler. (L-R front row) JNF Campaign Executive Rina Wagman with Capital Region Board Members Susan Farber, Jane Golub, Karen Lobel, and Mara Ginsberg at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in the Capital Region.

MOUNTAIN STATES

LAS VEGAS

10 1

(L-R) Linda Berry, Sara Schuman, and Dr. Nancy Uscher at a Sapphire Society Appreciation Brunch in Las Vegas.

Sherry Sulak and future JNFuture Leah Rose Sulak in Denver.

(L-R) Frankie Meppen and Faye Steinberg at a Sapphire Society Appreciation Brunch in Las Vegas.

(L-R) Joan Berry and Joan Dunn at a Sapphire Society Appreciation Brunch in Las Vegas.

(L-R) Barbara K. Burry, Robyn Loup, Melissa Asarch, and Natalie Goldman at a WFI parlor meeting in Denver.

(L-R) Jorge Topelson, JNF-Eshkol Regional Council Liaison Michal Uziyahu, Mountain States Board Chair Ron Werner, Francine Topelson, and Natalie Goldman visit the Atlit Detention Camp in Israel.

LOS ANGELES ORANGE COUNTY

PACIFIC NORTHWEST

SAN DIEGO

3 1.

(L-R) Warren Morten and Allan Adler at a Planned Giving event in Newport Beach.

(L-R) JNF Orange County Director Lisa Grier and Blossom Siegel at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in Newport Beach.

(L-R) Orange County JNFuture Members Brian Harmatz, Ally Mars, and Marc Garelick at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in Newport Beach.

Pacific Northwest (L-R) Chelly Brands, David Smith, IDF Major General (Res.) Doron Almog, Pastor Robert Rapp, Jennifer Trayes, and Cheryl and Gary Logerstedt visit ALEH Negev–Nahalat Eran in Israel. San Diego 1. (L-R) Frederick and Shari Schenk, and Lauren and JNF National President Dr. Sol Lizerbram dedicate the Schenk Family Sports Center in Shomriya, Israel. 2.

(L-R) Paul Segal and JNF CEO Russell F. Robinson at JNF’s Sderot Indoor Recreation Center in Israel.

(L-R) San Diego Board Members Patrice Gold, Lauren Lizerbram, Susan Chortek Weisman, and Shari Schenk at a Major Donor reception in San Diego.

3 1.

(L-R) Harriet Finebaum, Director of Special in Uniform Lt. Col (Res.) Tiran Attia, and Elizabeth Finebaum visit JNF’s 9/11 Living Memorial during the Israel@70 Mission.

(L-R) Women for Israel (WFI) Luncheon Co-Chairs Amanda Bialack, Terre Mirman Steinbeck, Myrtle Sitowitz, and Deena Singer at the Four Seasons Hotel in Beverly Hills.

(L-R) Ari Cohen, Marissa Krupen, Los Angeles JNFuture Board President Jordan Freedman, Diane Cohen, and Jaclyn Margolis at JNFuture’s Shabbat on the Beach in Los Angeles.

Across the Country

B'Yachad

FLORIDA NORTH FLORIDA

14 10

(L-R) Elana Walzer and Janise Klaiman at the Women for Israel (WFI) Israel@70 celebration in Orlando.

Phyllis and Michael Seaman at the Tree of Life™ Award Dinner in Naples.

(L-R) Executive Vice-Chairwoman of the Society for Preservation of Israel Heritage Sites Noa Gefen with Orlando Board Member Penny Goldstein, and Susan Schneider at the WFI Israel@70 celebration in Orlando.

(L-R) Amy and Pearl Lefkowitz at the WFI Israel@70 celebration in Orlando.

(L-R) JNFuture Orlando Board Members Joe Davis, Lee Ossin, and Shira Glickman with Ambassador Danny Ayalon at a Thank You event at the home of Bruce K. Gould in Orlando. Juli and Dr. Stuart Bobman at the Tree of Life™ Award Dinner in Naples.

(L-R) Lynn Minkow and Rachel Gebaide at a Thank You event at the home of Bruce K. Gould in Orlando.

Ashley and Naples Board President Anthony Solomon at the Tree of Life™ Award Dinner in Naples.

Goldie and Dr. Kenneth Wetcher at the Tree of Life™ Award Dinner in Naples.

10. Jessica

and Jeremy Schaab at the Tree of Life™ Award Dinner in Naples.

NORTH FLORIDA

14 11

SOUTH FLORIDA

11. (L-R)

Tampa Bay Board Member Robin Taylor with Ambassador Danny Ayalon, and Tampa Bay Board Member Ellyn Kessler at the Community Breakfast in Tampa Bay.

12. Tampa

Bay Board Member Laura and Steven Salzer at the Community Breakfast in Tampa Bay.

Breakfast in Tampa Bay.

Ambassador Danny Ayalon and Sanford Mahr at the Community Breakfast in Tampa Bay.

Ambassador Danny Ayalon with Tampa Bay Board President Lynne Merriam, and Dr. Fred Merriam at the Community Breakfast in Tampa Bay.

B'Yachad

Across the Country

(L-R) JNF Senior Marketing Manager Nicki Brower, JNF Marketing and Communications Associate Rachel Klein, Dr. Richard and Deborah Vogel, and JNF Senior Communications Coordinator Donna Breitbart at the JNF Pipes Bridge in Be’er Sheva.

(L-R) Palm Beach Board Member Cynthia Hertz with Broward Board Member Dr. Mark Gendal, JNFuture National Board Member Joshua Berkowitz, and Robbie Leifer at the 70@70 Phone-a-Thon in Boca Raton.

(L-R) Cherie Feigenbaum with Lenore Mishkin at American Independence Park in Israel.

Palm Beach & South Palm Beach WFI Steering Committee meet with Executive Vice-Chairwoman of the Society for Preservation of Israel Heritage Sites Noa Geffen at the home of WFI National Board Member Cantor Elaine Shapiro in Boca Raton.

(L-R) Tampa Bay Board Co-President Lynne Merriam with Jane Weiss and Robbie Leifer visit Ammunition Hill during JNF’s Israel@70 Mission.

(L-R) Halutza community leader Rabbi Eli Adler with Larry Silver and Rabbi Efrem Goldberg at JNF’s Scotch and Schmooze event in Boca Raton.

15. (L-R)

13. (L-R) Ambassador Danny Ayalon and Tampa Bay Board Member Dr. Rob Norman at the Community 14. (L-R)

SOUTHEAST SOUTH FLORIDA

10 7. 8. 9.

(L-R) Christine Yormack with Executive Vice-Chairwoman of the Society for Preservation of Israel Heritage Sites Noa Geffen, and Miami Board Member Adam Yormack at a WFI parlor meeting at the Yormack’s home in Miami. (L-R) Tyler Randall with Frank Cilurso, Chelsea Aks, and Faren Silverman at the JNFuture Summer Smash event at Topgolf in Miami. (L-R) Broward JNFuture Board Members Matt Franzblau, Lea Fruchter, and Nosson Seigel, with Fernanda Lewinsky, and Broward JNFuture Board Members Marissa Furman, Jonathan Mond, Tara Stiel, and Zachary Lichten at the JNFuture Summer Beach BBQ in Ft. Lauderdale.

10. (L-R)

Reka Dubovitz with Noa Gefen, Miami Board President Maia Aron, Christine Yormack, Miami Board Member Marni Kriss, and Judith Bell at a WFI Steering Committee meeting in Miami.

(L-R) Ellen Slosman with JNF Southeast Director Kate Samuels at a meeting in Asheville.

(L-R) Abby Bernstein and Debbie Matzkin Levy at a Women for Israel (WFI) Steering Committee meeting in Atlanta.

(L-R) Marina Alberhasky, Dr. Missy and Peter Rivner, and Dan Regenstein at a JNFuture event in Atlanta.

(L-R) JNFuture Board Members Ross Boardman, Debbie Matzkin Levy, Effi Levy, and Steven Prager at a JNFuture event in Atlanta.

(L-R) John Ives, JNF Southeast Director Kate Samuels, and Morris Capp at an Israel@70 Celebration in Montgomery.

(L-R) Atlanta Board of Trustee Member Jeff Kauffman with Clinton and Susan Weinstein at an Israel@70 Platinum Jubilee in Atlanta.

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B'Yachad

By Kenneth J. Krupsky

ewish National Fund has a strategic vision for Israel’s Galilee. Our Go North initiative works to strengthen quality of life, the economy, infrastructure and education, and promote the rich cultural fabric of the region—all with the aim of attracting 300,000 new residents. Galileans share an entrepreneurial zeal for a better life: Israel is the true “Start-Up Nation,” not only in innovative science and technology, but in finding creative solutions to the economic and social challenges facing the land and its people. In this issue of B’Yachad, we look at how Jewish National Fund is the catalyst in the Galilee’s economic revival, attracting new businesses, rapidly developing the region into a desirable place to call home, and transforming it into a top destination for foreign and domestic tourists. The Galilee has a bright future ahead. Join us on this adventure. Go North! Kenneth J. Krupsky is Chair of the Go North Task Force. To join or for more information, please contact Beth Cherner at bcherner@jnf.org or call 847.656.8880 x760

New Heights

GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT

Rising to in Ma’alot-Tarshiha

Paving the way for socioeconomic growth, prosperity, and revival in the Galilee Words By Maayan Hoffman THE GALILEE,

Israel’s Northern region, comprises 17% of the country’s landmass, boasts some of the most beautiful views in Israel, and offers much-needed respite from the congested, bustling center. The soft glow of the sunrise as it ascends through the verdant green hills of the Western Galilee is reason enough to relocate to the picturesque hill country. Despite its striking beauty and being an affordable alternative to Israel’s metropolitan center, the Galilee has struggled to attract new residents. Lack of diverse and lucrative economic opportunities has been a leading factor in preventing the growth of the region; as in many rural communities, agriculture, as well as tourism and to a lesser extent manufacturing, has traditionally been the dominant industry. But the winds of change are blowing through the Galilee. Look at Ma’alot, a charming and romantic town founded in 1957 dotted by landscaped waterfalls and stone sculptures, and one of the largest cities of the Western Galilee. It merged with the neighboring Arab town of Tarshiha in the early 1960s, and today is

Jewish National Fund’s Waterfall Street

B'Yachad

The Great Galilee

often known as Ma’alot-Tarshiha. Like many towns in Israel’s periphery, Ma’alot was a small town—settled by Moroccan and Iraqi immigrants—and had remained largely economically stagnant for decades. For many young people living in Ma’alot, the dream was to get out and head to one of Israel’s thriving coastal cities. Anat Sosnovski moved to Ma’alot at the age of 10 from the former Soviet Union, and even at a young age, was shocked to find a town that was “really small” and “had nothing.” Like many Israelis from the north, she left for Haifa and then Tel Aviv soon after turning 18, never imagining she would return to the town of her youth. But more than a decade later, Sosnovski is back. “When I became pregnant with my first child, I wanted to be near my parents,” said Sosnovski. “My husband and I decided to look at Ma’alot. It is a totally different city now, complete with all the services you need and want, but still small enough that it is the best place to raise children.” Ma’alot’s revival is paving the way for growth and prosperity in the broader Galilee and is emerging as a business destination. As part of its Go North initiative to strengthen and grow Northern Israel, Jewish National Fund has been a catalyst for change and sustainable socioeconomic growth by working with cities like Ma’alot, which is an important nucleus for impacting the region as a whole, creating economic hubs for surrounding communities. In partnership with Jewish National Fund, the municipality of Ma’alot is building several thousand new apartments and creating new jobs in the hi-tech business and professional services areas. How did this happen? Following the Second Lebanon War in 2006, philanthropic support came pouring in for the community, according to Roei Elrom, vice president of projects for the city. However, the municipality quickly realized that it could not permanently rely on donors for funding—they needed to do more for themselves. “We needed a plan,” said Elrom. “Jewish National Fund is not just a philanthropist, but an investor, and its donors are stakeholders. The organization taught us how to fish. Now we are fishing.”

“The projects will spur regional development, prosperity, and an increase in quality of life.” —Roei Elrom

Rendering of Lake Montfort and planned developments

Karate practice in Ma’alot’s city center

Indeed, Ma’alot’s leadership is working with Jewish National Fund and has elevated their community to new heights while holding onto their values and identity. “We are living the Zionist dream of greening and beautifying the land and building for our future,” said Mayor Shlomo Buhbot. “We are protecting and enhancing life, and bringing people and nature together.” At the center of Ma’alot’s strategic growth plan is Lake Montfort, a once peripheral recreation site now becoming an urban redevelopment and parkland in the heart of the city. Lake Montfort’s plans (some of which have already been built) include a water park, extreme adventure course, hotels and spas, an eco-agriculture farm, scenic boardwalk, and amphitheater. The boutique hotels and conference centers are designed to become a corporate retreat destination for some of Israel’s leading hi-tech companies, encouraging employees to experience the natural beauty of the Galilee—all just a mere hour and a half away from Tel Aviv. Jewish National Fund is also drawing on its expertise and experience in water reclamation to further green and beautify the city. Jewish National Fund’s Waterfall Street, a cascading ecological pond that functions as a water circulation ecosystem for Lake Montfort, will also prominently feature dozens of new storefront properties and hundreds of apartment units, allowing new business owners to benefit from the influx of tourism and residential growth. According to Elrom, the projects will have a tremendous impact: they are expected to draw thousands of overnight tourists, house and employ as many as 10,000 new residents, create over 2,500 jobs, and protect nearly 100 acres of land. “The projects will spur regional development, prosperity, and an increase in quality of life,” said Elrom, noting that today, Ma’alotTarshisha has around 25,000 residents, combined. That number is expected to double within the next decade, falling directly in line with Jewish National Fund’s goal of attracting 300,000 new residents to the north. “It will be beautiful, but the projects are not about enhancing the town,” Elrom added. “They are about increasing economic development, creating new jobs, and providing better employment opportunities. This has been possible with Jewish National Fund’s bold vision for the Galilee and the region.” Throughout the Galilee, dozens of manufacturing factories have been the lifeblood of the local economy, which has traditionally employed lower skilled workers, limiting the earning potential of residents. Today, one can see the economic ripple effects taking place thanks to investments into the future, such as education. In the small town of Shlomi, just west of Ma’alotTarshiha, Jewish National Fund’s investment in Erez College’s Natural Gas Vocational Training Center is providing a new sector of employment opportunities, and creating economic incentives and conditions for a new generation of Israelis to remain in the north. Natural gas is a new industry in Israel, and the special training program offered at Erez College includes practical engineering and training in natural gas

Rendering of planned home and commercial development

principles—offering job seekers the tools needed to find meaningful, long-term employment. “In 2015, we realized that the Galilee, and the region as a whole, could absorb many workers with technical skills,” said Yossi Gimmon, director of Erez College. “So we began focusing our courses on the manufacturing industry since it is the largest career and employment resource in the Galilee, and it has been successful.” By creating vocational training programs, Erez College directly helps connect aspiring workers to industries that will continue to sustain the north. Jewish National Fund’s investments haven’t gone unnoticed. With each graduating class and as the economic ripple widens, the government continues to invest in new roads, making commuting in the Galilee faster and more reliable. People working in the nearby Kfar Vradim business park or in the Mediterranean’s natural gas fields will be able to continue to live and work in the Galilee. Jewish National Fund’s future plans call for creating a state-of-the-art world-class Institute of Culinary Arts and a Food Innovation and Technology Center in the city of Kiryat Shmona, in the Upper Eastern Galilee. Construction is underway and, once operational, these will create more employment, bring new residents, and change the look, feel, and spirit of the area. The future looks brighter each day for the growth of the Galilee as Ma’alot-Tarshiha, in partnership with Jewish National Fund, continues to move forward with new economic opportunities for the city and the region. Northern Israel’s economic development is connected to investments in education and infrastructure, and Jewish National Fund has time and again proven that it is capable of realizing dreams to create a more prosperous Israel for all. To learn more or to get involved, please contact Deb Zaluda at deb@puzzleisrael.com The Great Galilee

B'Yachad

Walking on

Common Ground

Facing the challenges of coexistence head-on

Words By Leiba Chaya David

BOASTING A RICH tapestry of ethnicities, religions, and

lifestyles, it isn’t uncommon to hear Hebrew, Arabic, Russian, English, or even Spanish spoken in some places in the Galilee. But for the diverse residents of this beautiful region, living together in peace, tolerance, and partnership on a daily basis sometimes requires effort. As it has for decades, Jewish National Fund and the organizations it supports on the ground, work to build bridges between communities and create a more equitable, prosperous, and proud “Galilean” society for all the people of Israel. At the forefront are its educational and leadership programs, which reach participants from kindergarten through their army service and beyond, and aim to cultivate a spirit of volunteerism and provide leadership tools for shaping a better Israel for all who call it home.

Green Horizons—Shared Environment, Shared Values On a balmy summer evening, 50 Green Horizons scouts from across the Galilee—from towns such as Beit Jann, Akko, Kfar Vradim, and Misgav—participated on an overnight trip in a makeshift campsite in the agricultural fields of a moshav. The scouts, an example of the region’s multicultural makeup, worked side-byside with both Arabic and Hebrew spoken seamlessly between them. Such excursions and overnight trips are a way to renew the participants’ relationship with the land and each other. “We get together once a week and we have a lot of fun,” said Ravea Nafaa from Beit Jann, a Druze village. “We go camping all around the Galilee, and Green Horizons brings students from the different schools and towns closer together.” “Kids are coming from small Druze, Arab, or Jewish towns that would otherwise never interact so closely,” said Jewish National Fund-Green Horizons Liaison Ido Reichman-Eisikovits. “These kids spend four days in nature, learning about the land of Israel, eating, hiking, and sleeping side-by-side.” Since 1974, Green Horizons has educated more than 60,000 young Israelis, from 5th to 12th grades, with the belief that the Galilee’s success lies in fostering tolerance and growing the next generation’s leadership. It is a conviction shared by Jewish National Fund. Under the supervision of counselors, participants learn about Israel’s history, geography and environment, including practice in 20

B'Yachad

The Great Galilee

Right and bottom: Green Horizons scouts on a field trip

“Kids are coming from small Druze, Arab, or Jewish towns that would otherwise never interact so closely.” —Ido Reichman-Eisikovits, Jewish National FundGreen Horizons Liaison

COMMUNITY & LEADERSHIP

“We live in harmony here in this beautiful area; Jews and Arabs living together.”

Right: HaShomer HaChadash volunteer; Bottom right: HaShomer HaChadash participant helping on a farm

outdoor survival techniques, and development of valuable interpersonal and leadership skills. “We learn how to build fires, survive in the wild, and how to be effective leaders. It’s always an adventure,” said Jana Shaheen, one of the younger participants in the program. For Oriah, a seventh grader from Kfar Vradim, it doesn’t matter what language someone speaks because they connect through their mutual love of nature and the skills learned. “In the end we share the common language of the love of the land—our home, the Galilee,” she said. “The hikes are the best hands-on forum for practicing coexistence, religious tolerance, and learning leadership skills. There are no politics or religious differences out in the wilderness,” said Camellia Olesh, regional coordinator of Green Horizons in the Western Galilee. “Parents enroll their kids in this program in the hopes that it will get them outside and interacting with the environment around them. And it does,” said Lavi Zamir, CEO of Green Horizons. “They travel and learn together, and it’s in this way that they understand how intertwined their communities are to each other—to the Galilee and to the State of Israel.”

HaShomer HaChadash— Preserving Agricultural Communities in the Galilee While the youth learn through Green Horizons, the older generation is practicing coexistence in a different fashion—through HaShomer HaChadash, a Jewish National Fund-supported program that promotes agricultural and environmental volunteerism throughout the country. Founded in 2007, HaShomer HaChadash initially developed as a grassroots initiative to help Jewish farmers and ranchers face the daunting challenge of security. It has since evolved to include a range of transformative educational programs, attracting people of all ages to go out into the fields and work the land alongside farmers while learning about Zionist history and values. The Galilee is the most fertile and productive agricultural region of Israel, with agro-industries and animal husbandry contributing up to 50% of the Israeli

—Faris Assy market’s supply. While in recent years agricultural security has waxed and waned, it is HaShomer HaChadash’s pioneering experience and the feeling of reconnecting with the land that draws thousands of Israeli (and foreign) youth to volunteer and work the land. By connecting today’s youth with the land and creating a personal experience, all within an educational framework which includes hikes, field work, and group discussions, participants are inspired to love the land and take responsibility for and stewardship of the future of Israel. For farmers and ranchers, some of whom have hardships, HaShomer HaChadash’s Farmland Watch program and its 1,500 participating volunteers create an active presence on the land. The volunteers not only protect the land, but also provide farmers and ranchers with tangible support. HaShomer HaChadash’s mission is to reach every Israeli in need of help in his or her work on the land. This means farmers and ranchers from all walks of life, be they Jewish, Druze, or Arab. “We live in harmony here in this beautiful area; Jews and Arabs living together,” said Faris Assy, a cattle rancher from the Christian Arab village of Fassouta who has benefited from HaShomer HaChadash’s mission. On a tour around his property, Assy proudly shows off his olive orchard, carob grove, chicken coop, and cattle herd. Everything is organic, with great effort made to preserve the indigenous landscape. “There is no life in the Galilee without caring for the trees, our environment; it is all one chain. If we aren’t careful, it will be impossible to live here—to grow food, to enjoy nature.” When Assy faced problems at his farm, his Jewish neighbors told him about HaShomer HaChadash. With the help of a fleet of HaShomer HaChadash volunteers, Assy was able to make the repairs needed to his farming equipment, build a new fence, and bring his corral back to normal operations. The organization is also helping Assy to secure the legal status of his entire property to ensure protection in the future. In addition, Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael-Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF),

the forestry-arm of Jewish National Fund, has provided dozens of new indigenous trees to replace those that had previously been destroyed by vandals. Assy has a healthy respect for tradition—especially Zionist tradition. He grew up with his Jewish and Druze neighbors and feels a part of the diverse mosaic of the Galilee. He has a special respect for all Zionist farmers, like himself, irrespective of their ethnic background. “I love Israel, and give all I can for my country. My family serves in the army and we have been working this land for generations. If you want to meet the truest Zionist pioneers of today, look to the hilltop communities of the Galilee—to the farmers and ranchers.” Faris Assy and his fellow farmers, along with thousands of Green Horizons scouts, are proving that forming a strong, united society in the Galilee is a common goal for all who call it home. For more information on Green Horizons and HaShomer HaChadash, contact Ido Reichmand-Eisikovits at greenhorizons@jnf.org or Shira Erez at shira@hashomer.org.il

The Great Galilee

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Go North! Go Where? Fulfilling a dream and starting anew in the Galilee

Words by Megan E. Turner Photography by Ori Smaja MAKING ALIYAH, or

emigrating to Israel, is already a gutsy move by most people’s standards. Uprooting yourself from the stability and familiarity of your native country to follow that internal pull of fulfilling a Zionist dream is a brave choice to make. Now consider making aliyah to Northern Israel, the Galilee, an area blessed with rolling green hills, natural waterways, and vast open spaces, but also a region where English-speakers are not so prevalent, and the cities and towns are smaller and more remote. Yet, for many olim [new immigrants], thanks to Jewish National Fund and its partner, Nefesh B’Nefesh (NBN), the option of starting a new life as an Israeli in the Galilee is not out of the question. For the two organizations, moving to the north is another way of securing a prosperous future for Israel. For 16 years, Nefesh B’Nefesh has worked to streamline and make the aliyah and integration processes easier for North American and British Jews, while recognizing the need to look beyond Israel’s crowded center for untapped opportunities, particularly in the north and south. Since NBN launched its Go North and Go South programs in 2012, over 7,000 olim have realized their dream of settling in Israel’s frontier regions, paving the way for a revival of Israel’s early pioneering spirit. Nefesh B’Nefesh’s vision aligns with Jewish National Fund’s experience of working to develop the Galilee and Negev. By developing the north’s local infrastructure, housing, economy, and tourism industry through myriad projects and local partnerships, Jewish National Fund is strengthening and growing the Galilee. To increase the incentive for olim to lay roots in the region, Jewish National Fund’s Housing Development Fund is working on growing five communities throughout the north, and helps circumvent the hassle of dealing with bureaucratic red tape and construction delays. Jewish National Fund’s successes can be seen throughout the Galilee with the construction of new schools, employment centers, and industrial growth, all of which are redeveloping and changing the region’s

“We are needed here—our aliyah makes more of a difference in the Galilee.” The Epstein Family at Jewish National Fund’s Waterfall Street

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The Great Galilee

—Miriam Epstein

PLANTING PEOPLE

economic landscape. Together, with the help of Jewish National Fund and Nefesh B’Nefesh, olim moving to the north have greater economic opportunities and a network of support to create new lives that many had never considered possible. “We were looking to challenge ourselves a bit,” said Miriam Epstein, 33, who has lived in the northern town of Ma’alot with her husband, David, and their five kids since 2013. Six years after making aliyah, the Epsteins packed up from Beit Shemesh and headed north to Ma’alot, looking to further integrate into Israeli society and fulfill their true idea of pioneering and Zionism. “It’s not that you can’t be a Zionist in Beit Shemesh,” Miriam said, “but we are needed here—our aliyah makes more of a difference in the Galilee.” Miriam, a licensed English teacher, has found that her expertise is much more in demand in the north than it is in the center. “More people are looking to learn English here,” said Miriam. “The demand is so high that I’ve had to turn down jobs. I’m doing the same thing I was doing in Beit Shemesh, but in terms of satisfaction, I feel that I’m doing something bigger than before.” Really stepping out of his comfort zone, David started at the bottom and worked his way up to a lucrative job in an international company based in the Galilee. “I was underemployed when we moved to Ma’alot,” he said, “so I took a course and worked as a CNC [computer numerical control] machine operator for two years. Now, I work for the same company’s international desk.” Another benefit of living in the north, according to many, is the intimate sizes of the region’s cities and towns. Miriam pointed out that even though Ma’alot is a city, due to its size she feels like she can make an impact. “You can actually make a difference on the local level. I have a hand in some of the things that are happening in the city—I would never have done this back in the U.S. or in Beit Shemesh.” Avraham and Chava McGowen, 46, came straight to Ma’alot in 2010 when they made aliyah from Canada. “We didn’t want to be in a bubble,” Avraham said, “and we figured we would integrate better in a place

like Ma’alot. We were also keen on owning property, and Ma’alot was much more affordable and within our means.” Coming from a marketing background, Arvaham has continued working in his field and credits it for allowing his family the financial ability to make aliyah. At the same time, however, he is also fulfilling his dream of being a successful entrepreneur. His side business, Maple Syrup in Israel, is steadily growing and building traction among locals. Together with Chava, Avraham hopes to turn this business into the family’s main source of income. Both families also took into account the impact moving to the north would have on their children. “We were looking for a way for the kids to be totally Israeli,” Miriam said. “They do feel that way, and we consider this to be a complete success. That was a huge factor in us coming to the Galilee and Ma’alot.” The McGowens found that their business and subsequent exposure to the local community also greatly helped their kids’ integration. “We would go to the market with the kids,” said Avraham. “It was a ‘win-win’ since our oldest didn’t know Hebrew very well, and the school teachers were happy because it was the perfect way for them to work on their Hebrew.” Making the choice to go off the beaten path comes with its challenges, though. “My two oldest have not has an easy transition. They haven’t found their space,” Avraham lamented. “My daughter found it difficult, and we had to change schools a few times,” he added. “We had to step outside of ourselves a bit more and have had to make more of an effort,” said Miriam. “Overall, our challenges are very minor compared to the positives.” Both families feel like they have truly found their place in Israel. Jewish National Fund, through Nefesh B’Nefesh, has played a direct role in the Epstein’s and McGowen’s successes having a stable source of income and quality of life. “Nefesh B’Nefesh was very helpful—we used their resources, contacts, and community database as a great starting point,” Miriam said. Jewish National Fund’s focus on diversifying the local economy to include international, hi-tech, and Israel’s new natural gas industry, has had a ripple effect that’s being felt across the region, and has no doubt changed employment possibilities for thousands of families like the Epsteins and the McGowens. These olim families, and many others like them, are carrying on a legacy of building and developing Israel’s frontier and living the lives of modern day pioneers. “I ended up somewhere I never expected to. I wouldn’t have it any other way,” said David. Their courage to take a chance on establishing their lives in the Galilee is helping shape a successful future for the land and people of Israel.

Left: Ma’alot city center; Below: Jewish National Fund Waterfall Street; Bottom: David Epstein with his daughter

“We didn’t want to be in a bubble, and we figured we would integrate better in a place like Ma’alot.” —Avraham McGowan

For more information on Nefesh B’Nefesh, please contact Doreet Freedman at doreet@nbn.org.il The Great Galilee

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WHAT TO DO, SEE, & EAT

See, taste, and explore the best the Galilee has to offer FOOD & DRINK

Tefen Open Museum

Explore a museum without walls at the Tefen Open Museum, where unique, expressive combinations of industry and art are on display, including industrially inspired sculptures and a vintage car collection. Location: Migdal Tefen; omuseum.org.il/en; +972.4.987.2977

GalilEAT

Go on a world-class culinary outing and enjoy the most authentic and delicious foody experiences the Galilee has to offer with GalilEAT. Location: Varies throughout the Galilee; galileat.com; +972.55.881.0727

Shirat Roim

Located in the Lower Galilee, the awardwinning Shirat Roim Dairy Farm produces 23 locally sourced cheeses on Kibbutz Lotem. Treat yourself to a tasting on your next visit. Location: Lotem; shiratroim.co.il; +972.52.254.8052

Aluma Bistro

Inspired by the blend of cuisines and cultures of the Galilee, Aluma Bistro is a hidden gem located between the Upper Galilean towns of Kfar Vradim and Ma’alotTarshiha. Freshly caught fish, fine meats, and local produce, along with the rustic and elegant atmosphere of the restaurant, make Aluma an ideal end to any day in the Galilee. Location: Ma’alot-Tarshiha; alumabistro.co.il; +972.4.957.4477

ARTS & CULTURE

Kishor

Overlooking the Galilee’s beautiful mountains, the Kishor Winery on Kibbutz Kishurit is one of the only vineyards in Israel to integrate people with special needs into every aspect of winemaking. Take a tour of the vineyard and cap off your visit with a glass (or bottle) of wine. Location: Kibbutz Kishurit; kishorwinery.com; +972.4.908.5198

Enjoy a concert where music is viewed as a bridge between people, cultures, and religion at the Keshet Eilon Music Center in Kibbutz Eilon. As the leading musical destination in the Galilee, Keshet Eilon hosts concerts, festivals, and classes, drawing thousands of visitors from Israel and abroad. Location: Kibbutz Eilon; keshetei.org.il; +972.4.985.8191 B'Yachad

The Great Galilee

Decorate your home with one of MD Kalderon’s beautifully handmade pieces of glassware. With over 20 years of experience, MD Kalderon’s fresh and chic designs are prominently featured in some of most well-known international hotels. Location: Kibbutz Hanita; kalderonmd.com; +972.4.982.3030

Tarbut

Keshet Eilon

MD Kalderon

Tel Aviv is no longer the sole center of culture. The Tarbut artist community in Afula has established a professional art gallery, Off-Broadwaystyle theater, music festivals, and venues. Spend a day visiting the Afula Art Gallery, the TARBUT Art Workshops, and “VeAhavta,” a hip new music and arts café in Afula’s old market. Location: Afula; tarbutmovement.org; +972.72.261.5550

WHAT TO DO, SEE, & EAT

There’s a culinary, cultural, and tourism revolution taking place in the Galilee, a region rich in natural beauty, great eats, ethnic and cultural diversity, and adventure. Check out Jewish National Fund and Western Galilee Now’s list of must-visit places for your next trip to this enchanting part of Israel. DIVERSE LOCALES & EXPERIENCES

Buza

Meaning “ice cream” in Arabic, this charming ice cream parlor in Tarshiha is run by Adam Ziv, an Israeli Jew, and Alaa Sawitat, an Israeli Arab. Drop by and taste some of Buza’s innovative flavors, like tahini or pistachio! Location: Tarshiha, Ice Cream Parlor/ Kibbutz Sasa, Ice Cream Workshop; buzaisrael.co.il; Call +972.4.691.8880 for workshop reservations

Janet’s Kitchen

Feast on authentic home cooking at Janet’s Kitchen in the Druze village of Jat. From stuffed grape leaves to sweet knafeh, Janet’s culinary knowledge comes from generations of Galilean Druze ancestry. Location: Jat; +972.54.650.3090

Aya Natural

Look your best and support this local boutique that manufactures all-natural skincare products. Aya Natural, located in the Druze village of Beit Jann, adheres to tradition, health, and nature, and believes in giving back to the community. All Aya Natural employees are from Beit Jann; most are women. Location: Beit Jann; ayanatural.com; +972.4.980.5886

Café Ma’arag

Need a caffeine jolt with a twist? Café Ma’arag, located in Kfar Vradim, not only serves a cup of coffee, but also provides an artistic and creative space for people with special needs living in the Galilee. Check out the café’s art-filled gift shop where all profits go toward improving the lives of people with special needs. Location: Kfar Vradim; maarag.org.il; +972.4.997.1369

TOURISM & ADVENTURE Rimoney HaGalil

See Israel from the sea or air with Rimoney HaGalil. From Jeep and ATV tours, to kayaking and speedboat expeditions, adventure seekers will see a different side of the Galilee’s rugged landscape. Not for the faint of heart. Location: Kibbutz Yehi’am; rimoney-hagalil.com; +972.4.952.4566

Rosh HaNikra

Located a one minute walk from the Lebanese border, at Israel’s most northwest tip, the chalky cliffs and grottoes of Rosh HaNikra are a unique geological formation worth seeing. Take the cable car and explore the beautiful sea caves and grottoes, and watch the sound and light show detailing the geographical and historical significance of this region. Location: Rosh HaNikra; rosh-hanikra.com/home-en; +972.73.271.0100

Tarshiha

One of the largest mixed cities in the north, Tarshiha is teeming with culture and traditions dating back to the Crusader era. While nearby Ma’alot is predominantly Jewish, Tarshiha is split between Christian and Muslim Arabs, providing a unique insight into how these three religions live together, side by side. A special time to visit is during the winter holiday season, when Tarshiha and its residents hold Christmas and Chanukah festivals for all to enjoy. Location: Tarshiha (Route 89) in the Upper Western Galilee

Nahal HaShofet

Hiking is a favored Israeli pastime, and there is no better place to experience the power of nature than Nahal HaShofet. Located near the town of Yokne’am, Nahal HaShofet’s streams and forests offer a tranquil contrast from fast paced cities. What makes this trail special is that it includes a one mile inclusion loop, making this hike accessible to all regardless of one’s ability level. Location: Moshava Yokne’am; lotem.net; +972.50.342.9977 To check out these sites and more, visit westgalil.org.il or call +972.4.601.5533 The Great Galilee

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BE A PART OF JEWISH NATIONAL FUND'S EXCLUSIVE MAJOR DONOR SOCIETIES World Chairman’s Council $1,000,000 Lifetime

Century Council $100,000 Lifetime

Circle of Sapphire $100,000 Lifetime

King Solomon Society $100,000 Annual

Negev Society $25,000 Annual

President’s Society $10,000 Annual

Sapphire Society $5,000 Annual

Herzl Society $5,000 Annual

JNFuture Root Society $1,000 Annual

MID ATLANTIC BALTIMORE

(L-R) Monica Talor (Sapphire Society), JNF CEO Russell F. Robinson, and Dr. Eyal Talor during JNF’s Israel@70 Mission.

JNF-Green Horizons Liaison Ido Reichman-Eisikovits and Lori Burman at a Green Horizons meeting in Baltimore.

(L-R) Lou Cohen (Century Council, Negev Society) and Dr. Robert Keehn (Herzl Society) at a Major Donor Thank You reception in Baltimore.

Mid-Atlantic Women for Israel (WFI) Co-Chair Jayne Klein (World Chairman’s Council, King Solomon Society, Circle of Sapphire) and author Jennifer Weiner at a WFI reception in Baltimore.

Nicole Talor ( JNFuture Root Society) and Zack Garber ( JNFuture Root Society) at a Major Donor Thank You reception in Baltimore.

(L-R) Melanie Moreno (President’s Society, Sapphire Society), JNF National Campaign Director Diane Scar, and Rene Moreno (President’s Society) at a Major Donor Thank You reception in Baltimore. (L-R) Nanci Seff (Century Council, President’s Society, Circle of Sapphire), guest speaker Lior Raz, and Joe Marzouk (Century Council, President’s Society) at a Major Donor Thank You reception in Baltimore.

WASHINGTON, D.C.

(L-R) Mid-Atlantic WFI Co-Chairs Jayne Klein (World Chairman’s Council, King Solomon Society, Circle of Sapphire) and Nanci Seff (Century Council, President’s Society, Circle of Sapphire) present Dr. Ellen L. Taylor (Century Council, President’s Society, Circle of Sapphire) with an award at a WFI program held at Dr. Taylor’s home in Baltimore.

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JNF's Major Donors

Lauren France (Sapphire Society, JNFuture Root Society) at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in Washington, D.C.

Ben Goodman ( JNFuture Root Society) speaking at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in Washington, D.C.

DELAWARE

(L-R) Russell Silberglied (Herzl Society) presented with a plaque by Delaware Board President Joel Friedlander (World Chairman’s Council, King Solomon Society) at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in Wilmington.

NORTHERN VA.

Howard Hogan (Herzl Society), Susan Dilles (Sapphire Society), guest speaker Ambassador Ido Aharoni, and Mid-Atlantic President Ken Krupsky (Century Council, President’s Society) at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in Fairfax.

NORTHEAST CENTRAL NEW JERSEY

(L-R) Central NJ Women for Israel (WFI) Co-Chair Melissa Segal (Century Council, President’s Society, Sapphire Society), Paula Gottesman (Century Council, Negev Society, Circle of Sapphire), and Central NJ WFI Co-Chair Marci Robinson (Century Council, President’s Society, Circle of Sapphire) present Paula with a Century Council Blue Box Holder at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in Livingston.

EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA

(L-R) Director of Special in Uniform Lt. Col. (Res.) Tiran Attia with Ed Meinhart (President’s Society), Special in Uniform soldier Daniel Defur, Ruth Defur, and JNF Central NJ Executive Director Celine Leeds at a meeting in Livingston.

(L-R) Tree of Life™ Award Honorees Steven (Century Council, Negev Society) and Lori (Century Council, Negev Society, Sapphire Society) Dabrow with Jason Dabrow, Liza and David Brody, and Valerie Dabrow at the Tree of Life™ Award Dinner in Philadelphia. (L-R) JNF CEO Russell F. Robinson with Tree of Life™ Award Honorees Louise (World Chairman’s Council, King Solomon Society, Circle of Sapphire) and Alan (World Chairman’s Council, King Solomon Society) Dabrow at the Tree of Life™ Award Dinner in Philadelphia.

(L-R) Ariel Kotler, Barbara (Century Council, President's Society, Circle of Sapphire) and David (Century Council, President’s Society) Bortniker, and JNF CEO Russell F. Robinson meet three Israeli firefighters in Israel.

LOS ANGELES

(L-R) Joachim Rudoler (Century Council, President’s Society), Tree of Life™ Award Honoree Congressman Donald Norcross, and Bernie Platt (President’s Society) at the Tree of Life™ Award Dinner in Voorhees Township.

(L-R back row) Carole Shnier (Negev Society, Sapphire Society), JNF National Campaign Director Sharon Freedman, Francine Golden (Century Council, President’s Society, Circle of Sapphire), and Greater LA Board President Alyse Golden Berkley (Century Council, President’s Society, Circle of Sapphire). (L-R front row) Alan Abramson (Century Council, Negev Society) and Tom Morgan (Century Council, Herzl Society) at a luncheon in Beverly Hills.

ILLINOIS

(L-R) Chicago Board Member Chuck Kafenshtok (Century Council, President’s Society), Ambassador Ido Aharoni, and Robin Kafenshtok (Century Council, President’s Society, Sapphire Society) at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in Chicago. (L-R) Marc (Century Council, President’s Society) and Susan (Century Council, President’s Society, Circle of Sapphire) Sacks visit Co-CEO of Alexander Muss High School in Israel (AMHSI-JNF) Rabbi Leor Sinai in Israel.

(L-R) JNF CEO Russell F. Robinson with Gene (World Chairman’s Council, King Solomon Society) and Marlene (World Chairman’s Council, King Solomon Society) Epstein at the Exclusive Israel@70 Celebration hosted at the Epstein’s home in Bucks County.

(L-R) Dr. Robert (Century Council, President’s Society) and Pamela (Century Council, President’s Society, Sapphire Society) Benedon, Alan Blumenfeld (Century Council, President’s Society), Leonard Wizmur, Helene Blumenfeld (Century Council, President’s Society, Circle of Sapphire), JNF CEO Russell F. Robinson, Jerry (Century Council, Negev Society) and Shelly (Century Council, Negev Society, Circle of Sapphire) Abramson, Judy (President’s Society) and Bernie (President’s Society) Platt, Rita Shrayberman, and JNF Southern NJ Director Brandon Cohen at the Epstein’s home in Bucks County.

MIDWEST LOS ANGELES

Helene (Century Council, President’s Society, Circle of Sapphire) and Alan (Century Council, President’s Society) Blumenfeld receive an Israel Advocacy Award in Cherry Hill.

SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY

(L-R) Tremayne Smith, Lori Komisar (World Chairman’s Council, Sapphire Society), and Ambassador Ido Aharoni at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in Chicago.

NORTHERN OHIO

(L-R) Sam (World Chairman's Council) and Natalie (World Chairman’s Council, Sapphire Society) Goldberg, Dean Goldberg (Century Council, King Solomon Society), Sherry Lansing, and Debora Goldberg (Century Council, King Solomon Society) at a Major Donor Thank You reception at the Lansing’s home in Bel Air. Evan Roklen (Century Council, President’s Society) visit the entrance way to the B’nei Netzarim Halutza community.

Schloss and Susie Rubin, Monica Robins, Event Co-Chair Margaret Singerman (President's Society, Sapphire Society), Florine Mark (Century Council, Circle of Sapphire), and Event Co-Chair Stacy Singerman at a Women for Israel (WFI) luncheon in Cleveland.

(L-R) Martha Zlotnik (Sapphire Society) and Ida Haber (Negev Society, Sapphire Society) receive their Sapphire Society necklaces at a Northern Ohio WFI luncheon. (L-R) Event Co-Chairs Shirley

(L-R) JNF-MAKOM Liaison Shosh Mitzman, Northern Ohio Board President Noreen Koppelman-Goldstein (Century Council, Negev Society, Circle of Sapphire), and Northern Ohio Board Vice President Barry Feldman (Century Council, Negev Society) at a parlor meeting in Cleveland.

MIDWEST STATES

(L-R) Karen Freedland-Berger (President’s Society, Sapphire Society), Alon Ben-Gurion, and Andy Goldberg (Herzl Society) at a dessert reception in Detroit. (L-R) Treymane Smith, Gloria Feldman (World Chairman’s Council), and JNF Illinois Executive Vice President Beth Cherner at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in St. Louis.

Judy (Sapphire Society) and Dr. Max (Century Council, King Solomon Society) Robins at a dessert reception in Detroit.

WISCONSIN

(L-R) Nina Edelman (Sapphire Society), Alon Ben-Gurion, and Richard Edelman (Herzl Society) at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in Milwaukee. (L-R) Wisconsin Board President Susan Carneol (Sapphire Society), Alon Ben-Gurion, and Rusti Hansher Moffic (President’s Society, Sapphire Society) at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in Milwaukee.

OHIO VALLEY

National WFI President Nina Paul (World Chairman’s Council, Century Council, Negev Society, Circle of Sapphire) and Ambassador Danny Ayalon at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in Cincinnati.

(L-R) Ohio Valley Board Members Karen Schiffer (Sapphire Society) and Kelley Maher at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in Cincinnati. (L-R) Barry Cobb, Ohio Valley Chairman of the Board Jan Armstrong Cobb (Sapphire Society), and National WFI President Nina Paul (World Chairman’s Council, Century Council, Negev Society, Circle of Sapphire) visit ALEH NegevNahalat Eran in Israel.

JNF's Major Donors

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NEW ENGLAND BOSTON

(L-R) New England Women’s Alliance Chair Judi Elovitz Greenberg (Century Council, Circle of Sapphire) and Elaine Elovitz (Century Council, Circle of Sapphire) at a Major Donor Thank You event in Newton. New England VP of Campaign Todd (World Chairman’s Council, President’s Society) and Yadira (World Chairman’s Council, President’s Society, Circle of Sapphire) Patkin at a Major Donor Thank You event in Newton.

(L-R) Event Co-Chairs Suzanne (Century Council, President’s Society, Sapphire Society) and New England Chairman of the Board and Major Gifts Chair Lawrence (Century Council, President’s Society) Cohen, awardwinning film producer Howard Rosenman, and Boston President Steven (Herzl Society) and Paula (Herzl Society) London host a Major Donor Thank You event in Newton.

(L-R) JNF National Campaign Director Sharon Freedman and Sapphire Society President Emeritus Amy Parsons (Century Council, President’s Society, Circle of Sapphire) visit JNF’s office in Boston.

(L-R) Boston President Emeritus Jeffrey Woolf (Century Council, President’s Society) with Society for Preservation of Israel Heritage Sites President Shlomo Hillel at the Ayalon Institute during JNF’s Makor Mission to Israel.

(L-R) New England Women for Israel (WFI) Chair and Board of Directors Member Risa Aronson (Century Council, President’s Society, Sapphire Society), Boston Board of Trustees Member Lee Aronson (Century Council, Circle of Sapphire), Boston Board of Directors Member Steven Aronson (Century Council, President’s Society) at a Major Donor Thank You event in Newton.

Liz (Century Council, Negev Society) and Larry (Century Council, Negev Society) Epstein at a Major Donor Thank You event in Newton.

GREATER NEW YORK CAPITOL REGION

(L-R) National General Campaign Co-Chair and Boston President Emeritus Robert (President’s Society) and Dr. Phuli (President’s Society, Sapphire Society) Cohan, Rebecca Stein, and Boston Board of Directors Member Jonathan Plaut (Herzl Society) at a Major Donor Thank You event in Newton.

(L-R) JNF National President-Elect and VP of Campaign Bruce K. Gould (World Chairman’s Council, King Solomon Society) with Long Island President Michael Kessler (Century Council, Negev Society) and Major Gifts Chair and Northern NJ Board Member Ben Gutmann (World Chairman’s Council, Negev Society) at the Ronald S. Lauder JNF House in NYC.

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Boston Board of Directors Member and Chair of the Alexander Muss High School in Israel Impact Fellowship Committee Isaac (Herzl Society) and Ilana (Herzl Society) Edry at a Major Donor Thank You event in Newton.

(L-R) New York Board Member Jerry Berko (World Chairman’s Council, King Solomon Society) with Be’er Sheva Mayor Ruvik Danilovich, and Honi Berko (World Chairman’s Council, King Solomon Society, Circle of Sapphire) in Be’er Sheva.

JNF's Major Donors

(L-R) New England Sapphire Society President Rhonda Forman (Sapphire Society) with Event Host Bunny Aronson (Century Council, Circle of Sapphire) at a WFI event in Boston.

(L-R) New York Board Member Louis (Century Council, King Solomon Society) and Eva (Century Council, King Solomon Society, Sapphire Society) Galpern, Israel Fire & Rescue Authority’s Yaron Keren, Israel Fire & Rescue Commissioner Dede Simchi, and Tamara and Robert (Century Council, Negev Society) Galpern visit a fire station in Israel.

(L-R) Capital Region President Robert Ganz (President’s Society), JNF Campaign Executive Rina Wagman, and Dorothy Ganz (President’s Society, Sapphire Society) meet before JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in Albany.

NEW YORK

(L-R) Event Co-Chairs Shari (L-R) Yury (Century Council, President’s Society) and Yardeni (President’s Society), Kim Ninel (Century Council, President’s Society) Zamdborg Dickstein (President’s Society, with B’nei Netzarim Chairman Yedidya Hochman at the Sapphire Society), and Nina JNF-Helmsley Charitable Trust Medical Center in Halutza. Levene at the Women for Israel (WFI) Zionism and Feminism: Maintaining Liberal Values event at the Ronald S. Lauder JNF House in NYC.

(L-R) JNF Tri-State Executive Director Michael Feinman, New York President Saul Burian (President’s Society), Ambassador Danny Danon, New York Board Member and Event Co-Chair Laureine Greenbaum (World Chairman’s Council, Circle of Sapphire), Event Co-Chair and New York Board Member Amy Berko Isles (Century Council, Circle of Sapphire), Scott Shay (Century Council, Negev Society), Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, and JNF Tri-State Executive Vice President Maidelle Goodman Benamy at the Breakfast for Israel in NYC.

(L-R) JNF Chairman of the Board Jeffrey E. Levine (World Chairman’s Council, Negev Society), Ambassador Danny Ayalon, and New York Board Member and Honoree Saul Burian (President’s Society) with Event Co-Chairs Dan Kamensky (Century Council, Negev Society) and Ronen Bojmel (President’s Society) at the Theodor Herzl Leadership Award Dinner in NYC.

Stephen (Century Council, Negev Society) and Penny (Century Council, Negev Society, Circle of Sapphire) Rosen at the cornerstone ceremony for the new Ma’alot-Tarshisha Fire Station in Israel.

WESTERN NORTHERN NEW JERSEY

LONG ISLAND

(L-R) Northern NJ Board Member and Major Gift’s Chair Ben (World Chairman’s Council, Negev Society) and Susan (World Chairman’s Council, Negev Society, Circle of Sapphire) Gutmann, Ruth (Century Council, President’s Society, Sapphire Society) and Northern NJ President Bruce (Century Council, President’s Society) Pomerantz, and Joan (Century Council, President’s Society, Sapphire Society) and Bob (Century Council, President’s Society) Oppenheimer at JNF's Breakfast for Israel in Rockleigh.

(L-R) Long Island Board Member Larry (President’s Society) and Kay (President’s Society) Smith, JoAnn (Century Council, President’s Society) and Long Island Board Member Mark (Century Council, President’s Society) Engel, guest speaker Nitsana Darshan Leitner, and Elyse and Incoming Long Island Board President Larry Ingber at a parlor meeting at the Engel’s home in Sands Point.

WESTCHESTER AND SOUTHERN CT

Westchester & Southern CT Co-President Caren Hammerman (Sapphire Society) with guest speaker Bret Stephens at the 2nd Annual Westchester Positively Israel Reception in White Plains.

(L-R) Westchester & Southern CT Board Member Lynn Jacobs (Sapphire Society) with Stephanie Risa Balkin at the 2nd Annual Westchester Positively Israel Reception in White Plains.

MOUNTAIN STATES

(L-R) JNF National President Dr. Sol (World Chairman’s Council, King Solomon Society) and Lauren (World Chairman’s Council, King Solomon Society, Circle of Sapphire) Lizerbram, with Mountain States Board President Barbara K. Burry (Century Council, President’s Society, Circle of Sapphire) and Drs. Toby (World Chairman’s Council, King Solomon Society, Circle of Sapphire) and Mort (World Chairman’s Council, King Solomon Society) Mower at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in Denver.

ARIZONA

(L-R) Ambassador Danny Ayalon, Mountain States Board Chair Ron Werner (Century Council, King Solomon Society), and Lauren (World Chairman’s Council, King Solomon Society, Circle of Sapphire) and JNF National President Dr. Sol (World Chairman’s Council, King Solomon Society) Lizerbram at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in Denver.

(L-R) Miriam Grynberg (Sapphire Society), Talia Grynberg-Schepis, Rachel Grynberg, and Jack Grynberg (World Chairman’s Council, King Solomon Society) at the C46 Airplane Experience dedication ceremony at the Atlit Detention Camp in Israel.

(L-R) Dale Sachs (Century Council, President’s Society, Circle of Sapphire), Ann Zinman (Century Council, Negev Society, Circle of Sapphire), and Alexa Sachs ( JNFuture Root Society) at a Professional Women’s Cooking Demonstration in Phoenix.

(L-R) Jody Bartel (Sapphire Society) and Kim Kotzin (President’s Society, Sapphire Society) at a Professional Women’s Cooking Demonstration in Phoenix.

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

(L-R) Dr. Steven Farber (President’s Society), “The Scotch Guy” Tom Kranda, and Dr. Ralph Bassett at a Doctors for Israel (DFI) Scotch Tasting event in Scottsdale.

(L-R) Al Winetrub (Century Council, King Solomon Society), Didi and IDF Major General (Res.) Doron Almog, and Marilyn Winetrub (Century Council, King Solomon Society) at the Peninsula Golf & Country Club in San Mateo.

LAS VEGAS

(L-R) Peter Wexler (Century Council, Negev Society) with Didi and IDF Maj. Gen. (Res.) Doron Almog in Palo Alto.

(L-R) Merry Sherman Saifer (Century Council, Negev Society) and Mark Saifer (Century Council, Negev Society) with Didi and IDF Maj. Gen. (Res.) Doron Almog at the Peninsula Golf & Country Club in San Mateo.

(L-R) Janis Lilie (World Chairman’s Council, Circle of Sapphire) and Bernice Friedman (Century Council, Negev Society, Circle of Sapphire) at a Sapphire Society Appreciation Brunch in Las Vegas.

(L-R) Charlene Sher, Laurie Robinson Frankoff (President’s Society), and Bernice Friedman (Century Council, Negev Society, Circle of Sapphire) at a Sapphire Society Appreciation Brunch in Las Vegas.

SAN DIEGO

Linda Eckhaus (Negev Society, Sapphire Society) at a Sapphire Society Appreciation Brunch in Las Vegas.

(L-R) Myra Chack Fleischer (Century Council, President’s Society, Circle of Sapphire), Executive Vice-Chairman of the Society for Preservation of Israel Heritage Sites Noa Gefen, Dr. Barbara Hoffer, and Leonard Hirsch (Century Council, President’s Society) at a meeting in San Diego.

JNF's Major Donors

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ORANGE COUNTY

(L-R) Charles Fleischer (Century Council, President’s Society), Myra Chack Fleischer (Century Council, President’s Society, Circle of Sapphire) and JNF CEO Russell F. Robinson dedicate a plaque on Ammunition Hill’s Wall of Honor in Israel.

Karen (Century Council, Circle of Sapphire) and Dr. Robert (Century Council, Herzl Society) Zeiger at a Major Donor reception in San Diego.

(L-R) Geri Kate Pearce (Century Council, (L-R) Mitch Cohen and Henry Cohen (Herzl President’s Society, Circle of Sapphire, Society) at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in JNFuture Root Society) and Adrienne Matros Newport Beach. (Century Council, Negev Society, Sapphire Society) at a Planned Giving event in Newport Beach.

(L-R) Edgar Moran (Century Council, King Solomon Society), JNF National Campaign Director Sharon Freedman, and Ambassador Ido Aharoni at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in Newport Beach.

SOUTHEAST

SOUTHERN TEXAS

(L-R) JNF CEO Russell F. Robinson with Robin (Herzl Society) and Tony (Herzl Society) Furman at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in El Paso. (L-R) Shelly Shor Gerson (Century Council, Negev Society, Circle of Sapphire), Tobi Shor (Sapphire Society), and Nina Paul (World Chairman’s Council, Negev Society, Circle of Sapphire) at a Women for Israel (WFI) event in Austin.

SOUTHEAST

(L-R) Tanny Berg (Herzl Society), JNF CEO Russell F. Robinson, and Nora Gonzalez (Century Council, President’s Society, Circle of Sapphire) at JNF’s Breakfast for Israel in El Paso.

(L-R) Ben Zachariah and Allan Zachariah (Century Council, President’s Society) at a VIP reception in Atlanta.

(L-R) Gloria Adelson (Sapphire Society) and Amy Braunstein, with JNF Southeast Director Kate Samuels at a VIP reception in Atlanta.

(L-R) Atlanta Co-President Michael Jacobson (President’s Society) with Abby and Seth Bernstein (Herzl Society, JNFuture Root Society) at the Israel@70 Platinum Jubilee in Atlanta.

Merle (Century Council, King Solomon Society, Sapphire Society) and David (Century Council, King Solomon Society) Horwitz at the Israel@70 Platinum Jubilee in Atlanta.

FLORIDA NORTH FLORIDA

(L-R) Lori (Herzl Society) and Orlando Board Member Dr. Michael (Herzl Society) Beim with JNF Orlando Director Laura Abramson, and Jill Riola (World Chairman’s Council, President’s Society, Circle of Sapphire) at a JNF Thank You event at the home of Bruce K. Gould in Orlando.

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JNF's Major Donors

(L-R) Ambassador Danny Ayalon with Orlando Board Member Valerie (Century Council, President’s Society) and Orlando Board Member Jim (Century Council, President’s Society) Shapiro, and JNF President-Elect and Vice President of Campaign Bruce K. Gould (World Chairman’s Council, King Solomon Society) at a JNF Thank You event at the home of Bruce K. Gould in Orlando.

National Co-Chair Community Campaign Jim (World Chairman’s Council, President’s Society) and Jill (World Chairman’s Council, President’s Society, Circle of Sapphire) Riola at a JNF Thank You event at the home of Bruce K. Gould in Orlando.

(L-R) Orlando Board Member Marc Reicher (Herzl Society) with Gale (Herzl Society) and Orlando Board President Ed (Herzl Society) Milgrim, and Orlando Board Member Nina Oppenheim (President’s Society, Sapphire Society) at a JNF Thank You event at the home of Bruce K. Gould in Orlando.

Dr. Mark (Century Council, President’s Society) and Naples Board Member Anne (Century Council, President’s Society) Rubin at the Tree of Life™ Award Dinner in Naples. Drs. Kate (Herzl Society) and Ilya (Herzl Society) Prizel at the Tree of Life™ Award Dinner in Naples.

(L-R) Naples Board Member Neil (Century Council, Negev Society) and Jeanne (Century Council, Negev Society) Braverman with Naples Board Co-President David Braverman at the Tree of Life™ Award Dinner in Naples.

(L-R) ALEH Negev-Nahalat Eran Director of Development Avnet Kleiner with Naples Tree of Life™ Award Honorees Arlene (Century Council, Negev Society) and Keith (Century Council, Negev Society) Silver at the Tree of Life™ Award Dinner in Naples.

(L-R) Steve (World Chairman’s Council, King Solomon Society) and Sharry (World Chairman’s Council, King Solomon Society, Circle of Sapphire) Solomon with Ambassador Danny Ayalon at the Community Breakfast in Tampa Bay.

Tampa Board Member Tina Gordon (Century Council, Circle of Sapphire) with Ambassador Danny Ayalon at the Community Breakfast in Tampa Bay.

(L-R) JNF-Halutza Liaison Yedidya Harush with Sarasota Board Members David (Century Council, Negev Society) and Edie (Century Council, Negev Society) Chaifetz visiting Shlomit in Israel.

Tampa Bay Board Co-Presidents David Pearlman (Herzl Society) and Lynne Merriam (Century Council, King Solomon Society, Circle of Sapphire) at the Community Breakfast in Tampa Bay.

(L-R) Tampa Bay Board Member Ida Raye Chernin (Century Council, Circle of Sapphire) with Ambassador Danny Ayalon and Tampa Bay Board Member Mary Ellen Hogan (Century Council, President’s Society, Circle of Sapphire) at the Community Breakfast in Tampa Bay.

(L-R) Linda Melcer (President’s Society, Sapphire Society) with Executive Vice-Chairwoman of the Society for Preservation of Israel Heritage Sites Noa Gefen at a Women for Israel (WFI) meeting in Boca Raton.

Peter Singer (President’s Society) visit the Kotel during JNF’s Israel@70 Mission.

(L-R) Naples Board Member Hank Greenberg (Herzl Society) with Naples Tree of Life™ Honorees Norman (President’s Society) and Helene (President’s Society) Krivosha at the Tree of Life™ Award Dinner in Naples.

SOUTH FLORIDA

(L-R) Mark (World Chairman’s Council) and Caryn (World Chairman’s Council, Negev Society) Israel with Ambassador Danny Ayalon, Debra (World Chairman’s Council, Negev Society, Sapphire Society) and Sy (World Chairman’s Council, Negev Society) Israel at a meeting with Ambassador Ayalon in Orlando.

Marjorie (President’s Society, Sapphire Society) and Ad (President’s Society) Shuster visit Ammunition Hill during JNF’s Israel@70 Mission.

(L-R) Micki Futernick (Century Council, President’s Society) with AMHSI-JNF Co-Executive Director Orit Rome, and Morris Futernick (Century Council, President’s Society) visiting the Futernick Family Student Lounge at Alexander Muss High School in Israel.

(L-R) Sherri Samuels (President’s Society, Sapphire Society) with Louise Dabrow (World Chairman’s Council, King Solomon Society, Circle of Sapphire) and Andrea Colton (Century Council, Negev Society, Sapphire Society) visit the Kotel during JNF’s Israel@70 Mission.

Miami-Dade Board President Maia Aron ( JNFuture Root Society) and Alex Bokor ( JNFuture Root Society) visit the shuk during JNF’s Israel@70 Mission.

(L-R) Dina (President’s Society) and Jonathan (President’s Society) Leader with HaShomer HaChadash CEO Yoel Zilberman in Israel.

(L-R) South Florida President Ron Kriss (Century Council, President’s Society) with JNF CEO Russell F. Robinson and Marni Kriss (Century Council, President’s Society, Sapphire Society) visit American Independence Park during JNF’s Israel@70 Mission. (L-R) Robbi Leifer (Century Council, President’s Society, Sapphire Society), Lynne Merriam (World Chairman’s Council, King Solomon Society, Circle of Sapphire), and Jane Weiss (President’s Society, Sapphire Society) visit an Israel heritage site during JNF’s Israel@70 Mission.

(L-R) Beverly Rubenstein (World Chairman’s Council, Circle of Sapphire) and Gloria Slass (President’s Society, Sapphire Society) visit the Atlit Detention Camp in Israel.

(L-R) Shoshana Barbara Avrahami Young and Robbie Leifer Suzan Mitchell (Century Council, Negev (Century Council, President's Society, Sapphire Society) Society, Sapphire Society) and Bob Meyer visit Ammunition Hill during JNF’s Israel@70 Mission. (Century Council, Negev Society) visit American Independence Park during JNF’s Israel@70 Mission. (L-R) JNF-Halutza Liaison Yedidya Harush with Ruth (Century Council, Negev Society, Circle of Sapphire) and Bernie (Century Council, Negev Society) Mintz, and Halutza Community Leader Rabbi Eli Adler in Boca Raton.

JNF's Major Donors

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Whipping Up Culinary Delights in the Upper Eastern Galilee The future of food is in Northern Israel and Jewish National Fund is paving the way the world over as the “Start-Up Nation,” and while economically and commercially it has largely been concentrated in the center of the country, the north’s economy has grown at a slower pace. This is all going to change as a 21st century start-up revolution is quickly taking place, promising to transform one of the most essential and basic industries on the planet: Food. Nearly 40% of Food-Tech start-ups around the world are located in Israel, and are Chef Lior Lev Sercarz an integral part of a massive socioeconomic change in Israel’s Upper Galilee. As part of this change, Jewish National Fund has partnered with ii2020, an Israeli NGO, to focus on bringing food technology and innovation, business accelerators and incubators, and a world-class Institute of Culinary Arts to Kiryat Shmona in the Upper Eastern Galilee. ISRAEL IS KNOWN

Construction is already underway with the building of Beit Asher, a Food Innovation and Technology Center, and the future Jewish National Fund Institute of Culinary Arts, which will be directed by famed Chef Lior Lev Sercarz. With this groundbreaking project, Jewish National Fund is changing the Upper Eastern Galilee’s landscape by creating employment opportunities, bringing new residents, and changing the look, feel, and spirit of the region. Tel Aviv may boast a wide, eclectic array of boutique restaurants, but it is in Kiryat Shmona where real change is taking place, as the city brands itself as Israel’s emerging culinary capital on a global scale. In addition, Jewish National Fund plans to construct a large modern regional medical center, and will continue to nurture existing partnerships with its

Israeli partners, such as MAKOM, to strengthen communities with human capital. With the know-how and experience, Jewish National Fund will realize dreams for future generations of Israelis and create a brighter future for the Galilee and the people of Israel. For more information or to join the Upper Eastern Galilee Task Force, please contact Lee Lebovich at llebovich@jnf.org or call 561.447.9733 x882

Rendering of Jewish National Fund’s Institute of Culinary Arts

Sababa Means Awesome! Open to 10–14 year olds

It's here! The new Jewish National Fund society for tweens. ·· Create your own local adventures to learn about JNF’s work in Israel ·· Learn about philanthropy and raise money for Israel – Suggested donation of $2 a week ($104/yr) ·· Earn points to win prizes, badges, and special recognition MORE INFORMATION

Education@jnf.org ∙ 212.879.9305 x245

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Jewish National Fund

on! o s g n i com Participate in the sacred act of writing a Torah on top of Masada, and be part of ancient history brought back to life with Jewish National Fundâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Be Inscribed. Buy a letter, word, verse, or chapter and a certificate will be sent signifying the link to our ancient past. An ideal gift for births, Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, birthdays, engagements, weddings, anniversaries, and other milestones in life.

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A GLOBAL GIVING MOVEMENT

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Using Jewish National Fund’s Social Media Tips As You Travel Experiencing must-see hotspots through the Jewish National Fund lens in our technology-obsessed society is the desire to be present—in the mind, the moment, and with those around us. Often, our extensive use of social media is blamed for the disconnect: how can we stay present when we constantly have the glowing screen of a smartphone before our eyes, or if we’re too busy worrying whether or not our latest photo on Instagram or Facebook will get the likes we think it deserves? Too much time spent stressing over our digital world may interfere with our perception of reality; however, when used correctly, one can employ the resources provided by social media to your benefit. At Jewish National Fund, social media is utilized as a platform to inspire, plan, and promote—not only the A COMMON TROPE

great projects and accomplishments of JNF for the land and people of Israel, but also as a source for travel tips. At a time when crowdsourcing via social media is on the rise, Jewish National Fund’s social media platforms are excellent resources for quick trip tips. Thanks to Jewish National Fund’s revolutionary Go North initiative, which works to strengthen the Galilee’s tourism industry, economy, and attract 300,000 new residents, the region has become a wanderlust’s playground. Understanding the north’s uniqueness has never been easier. Just a scroll through the Galilee geotag or hashtag on social media reveals thousands of photos of breathtaking hiking trails, warm and diverse communities, and some of the biggest foodie spots (as seen in Time Out’s “Best Places to Eat”)! Each week on Jewish National Fund’s blog, JNF Impact ( jewishnationalfund.blogspot.com), we post about new and exciting developments, investments, or places to enjoy. Looking for cute boutiques, wineries, or hotels during your stay in the north? Jewish National

Fund’s Western Galilee Tourist Information Center, located in the heart of Akko’s Old City, serves as a gateway for information and discovery about hundreds of destinations throughout the Galilee. The center is also accessible on mobile devices for continuous recommendations via Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Just visit westgalil.org.il and check it out. Social media is an incredible tool and one that we have come to rely on for many of our daily activities. It has also increasingly become a valuable recommendation-seeking forum that Jewish National Fund—along with millions worldwide—employs to provide unique recommendations and happenings for vacations and holiday visits. Be sure to check out Jewish National Fund’s social media channels next time you plan to visit Israel—you’re bound to discover hidden gems, be inspired, and experience a new side of Israel. Subscribe to Jewish National Fund’s blog today at jewishnationalfund.blogspot.com ∙ Follow us on Facebook (Jewish National Fund-JNF), Twitter (@jnfusa), and Instagram (@jnfusa)

Y O U R T R I P, Y O U R C H O I C E CLASSIC

JNF ALTERNATIVE WINTER BREAK: FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS & YOUNG ADULTS Open to ages 18 –24 ∙ December 22 – 30, 2018

Looking for a service vacation with a Jewish spin? Want to do something amazing on your next school break? Loved Israel and can’t wait to go back? JNF’s Alternative Winter Break is the trip for you. • Get your hands dirty with meaningful community projects • Experience Shabbat in Jerusalem • Round trip airfare from NY, and most meals and accommodations, are included once fundraising goal of $950 is met

AMPLIFIED

CAMPUS

EXPLORATION

GRAD

LGBTQ+

& MANY MORE

Explore Israel with Israelis on one OF our unique trip options! Register NOW for YOUR WINTER 2018 / 2019 EXPERIENCE

ISRAELWITHISRAELIS.COM/GO These programs are for 18-26 year olds with at least one Jewish parent who f it the Birthright Israel eligibility requirements outlined at israelwithisraelis.com/eligibility.

(312) 267-0677 • REGISTRATION@SHORASHIM.ORG • ISRAELWITHISRAELIS.COM

For more Information, contact Amy Cytron at acytron@jnf.org or 414.963.8733 x776

THIS TRIP IS A GIFT FROM BIRTHRIGHT ISRAEL

jnf.org/travel ∙ 877.563.8687

TASTE THRU THE LENS

7 - DAY

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Happenings from Alexander Muss High School in Israel Philadelphia to send 75 teens to Alexander Muss High School in Israel for study abroad in 2019 2019 IS SHAPING up to be a seminal year for the Philadelphia Jewish community.

Following 38 years of partnership, Alexander Muss High School in Israel (AMHSI-JNF) and the Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy have joined forces to develop a $10 million scholarship fund and remove any financial obstacles for the 50 Barrack students who attend AMHSI-JNF annually. As of this printing, the first six million has been secured thanks to a matching gift from the Jewish National Fund Boruchin Center, leaving a $2 million goal to raise. Studying abroad in Israel during high school isn’t limited to these day school students. The AMHSI-JNF Philadelphia Impact Fellowship, a leadership development program in its second year that brings 10 local teens annually to the February mini-mester session, has been endowed by Hans and Gloria Schott. This Fellowship ensures that outstanding local public and private school students also have the opportunity to earn college credit, develop independence, and enhance their writing and public speaking skills, all while becoming advocates for the state of Israel. Take these two larger scale programs, and add into the mix the additional 15 or so local students who make their way to AMHSI-JNF’s various study abroad programs throughout the year, and you can see how the Philadelphia Jewish community will benefit. With 75 teens coming to AMHSI-JNF each year to learn 4,000+ years of Jewish and Israeli history, explore Judaism in a pluralist and open environment, and return home with the passion to stay connected to Israel for the rest of their lives, there’s no way the Philadelphia Jewish community can do anything but thrive for generations to come. To create similar opportunities in your community, contact Rabbi Leor Sinai at lsinai@amhsi.org or 212.879.9305 x610

The Ultimate College Prep Study Abroad Adventure Boost your college resume while discovering 4,000+ years of Jewish and Israeli history using the land as the classroom. Earn college credit and make life-long friends! Choose the session that works best for you. Applications are now open for all 2019 and 2020 sessions. Plus, with a $500 deposit, you can lock in current tuition rates now. We'll help you get here! AMHSI-JNF offers generous financial assistance to qualified students attending our programs. Apply now.

Contact recruitment@amhsi.org or 800.327.5980 to find out more.

AMHSI.org

AMHSI

Roots Israel Completes Second Successful Summer; Includes Teens from Poland SUMMER 2018 saw the completion of AMHSI-JNF’s second

Roots Israel Service Learning Adventure, with 32 teens, ages 13-18, coming to Israel and getting their hands dirty at Jewish National Fund partner projects across the county. The teens clocked in over 40 hours of community service while learning about Israel’s global leadership in environmental, agricultural, and social sustainability. Half of the group hailed from the greater New York City area thanks to a seed funding grant administered by the Jewish Education Project’s New York Teen Initiative, which is jointly funded by UJA New York and the Jim Joseph Foundation. Additionally 10 Polish teens shared the experience thanks to the generosity of long-time Jewish National Fund donor David Weiner of Los Angeles. “When my mom and I heard about this trip, we started to check it out and I knew it was more about helping,” explained Roy, 15, from Warsaw. “We spent a day helping a farmer who's farmland and livelihood had been damaged by fires. It was nice leaving knowing we made a positive impact.” The trip also had a profound effect on the American teens. “I have traveled to many places, but none compare to Roots Israel,” said Casey Horning, 16, from Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. “I learned so many things about my second home, Israel. I have also made unbreakable bonds with new friends from around the world that I now consider a second family. I recommend this trip to anyone searching to become more independent, social, and looking to connect with their Jewish heritage. This was the best summer of my life! I might even return to Israel for a semester at AMHSI-JNF.” For more information, visit rootsisrael.org or contact Marni Heller at info@rootsisrael.org or 212.879.9305 x485

Plant Your Way to Israel with Jewish National Fund! Have an Israel trip planned, or want to start saving for an Israel program far in advance? Raise funds for your trip while also helping the land and people of Israel. 50% of the money raised can be used for any Israel trip.

To sign up, visit jnf.org/plantyourway Questions? Contact Education@jnf.org or 212.879.9305 x245

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2 018 – 2 02 0 T R AV EL & T OUR S

Remember the family. Come home for a visit. Experience Israel with JNF Travel & Tours. Israel H 2O Tour

Spirit of Israel Tour

DECEMBER 10 – 17, 2018 A unique water-focused tour of Israel with exclusive access to leading water technologies and experts.

MAY 12 – 20, 2019 Discover Israel’s rich history, heritage, and culture on this unforgettable journey. Perfect for first-timers and repeat visitors alike.

Volunteer Vacation: For Ages 25 – 35

President’s Society Mission

DECEMBER 23 – 29, 2018 Looking for a meaningful way to spend a week in Israel? Build something you can call your own and make a lasting impact with your peers.

Active Retirees in Israel (CAARI) JANUARY 10 – FEBRUARY 21, 2019 | 2 – 6 WEEK PROGRAMS AVAILABLE A rewarding volunteer experience in Israel for ages 50+ with touring and a comprehensive speaker’s forum.

Doctors for Israel Tour FEBRUARY 17 – 21, 2019 An insider’s view into Israel’s medical field and healthcare industry.

Hadassah & Jewish National Fund Israel Family Tour

Sunshine Tour: For Active Adults 55+ MARCH 31 – APRIL 9, 2019 A life-changing, 10-day excursion exploring the country from north to south.

877.563.8687 ·

MAY 19 – 26, 2019 See a different side of Israel on this multi-themed trip and choose from three program options: Food, Wine, & Culture; Active Adventures; and Coexistence & Environment. *Open to JNFuture members only with a minimum annual gift of $360

JUNE 31 – JULY 7, 2019 An exhilarating adventure with other like-minded singles experiencing Israel’s vibrant culture, cuisine, and history.

MARCH 4 – 11, 2019 See Israel through the eyes of our matriarchs and patriarchs.

CALL

JNFuture Ultimate Israel Experience: For Ages 25 – 40

Singles Tour: For Ages 30 – 45

Israel: From a Torah Perspective

R EGIST E R TODAY

MAY 19 – 23, 2019 | OPTIONAL PRE- MISSION IN JERUSALEM: MAY 17 – 19 An exclusive opportunity for JNF Major Donors * to feel the impact of Jewish National Fund’s transformative work. *Minimum annual gift of $10,000 is required

VISIT

DECEMBER 25, 2019 – JANUARY 2, 2020 Celebrate Chanukah in Israel on a vacation the whole family can enjoy. Bar/Bat Mitzvah options available

jnf.org/travel ·

travel@jnf.org