pesach 2016 h 2016 - Magen David Adom Australia
Transcription
pesach 2016 h 2016 - Magen David Adom Australia
8 PESACH 2016 PESACH 2016 Upcoming Events MDA has some wonderful and varied events coming up this year. My Name is Asher Lev - May 14 at 8.15pm An evening of theatre with a special performance of My Name is Asher Lev at the Eternity Playhouse in Darlinghurst. The evening will feature an exclusive session with the daughter of the novelist and playwright Chaim Potok, actress Naama Potok; moderated by Jewish Board of Deputies CEO Vic Alhadeff. Tickets are $60, available through the trybooking website - link www.encounters.edu.au/AsherLev/mda. It’s a small theatre which is booking out fast, don’t miss out. Annual MDA Shabbat – July 8 & 9 In Synagogues around Sydney. MDA members and friends are encouraged to participate. Major Function – July 31 - evening An extraordinary communal event, definitely not to be missed – more details soon LIFESAVER THE A time of reflection, inspiration and freedom Entertainment Book 2016/2017 The Entertainment Book and the Entertainment Digital Membership – available for order NOW. Sydney & Surrounds $70 (plus postage and handling). For every book sold MDA receives $14. The most popular restaurants, attractions, shopping, travel and more, all with valuable up to 50% off and 2 for 1 offers. Order through the Entertaiment Book website www.entertainmentbook.com.au or phone the MDA office on 9358 2521. ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING NSW DIVISION will take place on SUNDAY MAY 29, 2016 at 10.30am at MACCABI TENNIS CLUB White City Complex 30 Alma St, Paddington Nominations for the Committee must be received by the Hon Secretary on the prescribed nomination forms no later than Friday May 20, 2016 at 4.00 pm EST. Members & donors welcome PO Box 293, Edgecliff NSW 2027 Tel 9358 2521 Fax 9358 3893 E [email protected] www.magendavidadom.org.au MDA NSW Directory COMMITTEE President Roland Nagel Vice President Tony Ziegler Hon Secretary Ilana Sackar Hon Treasurer Peter Sheldon Josh Bolot Mark Josman Danielle Lechem Melissa McCurdie Newsletter of The Friends of Magen David Adom (NSW) Inc OFFICE Please phone beforehand for appointment Accounts Yvonne Rawack Administration Tammy Zlattner Donations & Bequests Tamara Lowbeer Events Jodi Kofsky Friends of Magen David Adom (NSW) Inc PO Box 293 Edgecliff NSW 2027 Tel: (02) 9358 2521 Fax: (02) 9358 3893 Email [email protected] www.YMDA.org.au www.magendavidadom.org.au As we celebrate Pesach with our families and friends, it is heart-breaking to see our brothers and sisters in Israel are not free to carry on with their normal day-to-day lives without the fear of a stabbing, shooting, ramming or other senseless acts of terror being perpetrated against them. Thankfully, Israel’s Defence Forces are second to none in protecting our people and we can be equally proud of how the country’s national emergency and rescue services respond to these senseless attacks. In particular, the courage and bravery of Magen David Adom’s paramedics, medics and staff, most of whom are volunteers, who not only respond to the daily demands of accidents, medical emergencies and humanitarian relief, but the current wave of terror superimposes another layer of complexity and challenge. Our MDA heroes inspire us with their amazing dedication without regard to their own personal safety and security. In consequence, MDA Israel has identified a need to increase their fleet of First Responder Motorcycles (Medicycles) by an additional 50 units. MDA medics treat stabbing victim in a Tel Aviv street Medicycles can reach the scene of an emergency in a fraction of the time it would normally take enabling victims to be treated without delay. NSW Friends of Magen David Adom has pledged to raise funds so that MDA Israel can purchase as many Medicycles as possible. This would be a wonderful opportunity for those wishing to dedicate a Medicycle in honour or in memory of a loved one linking the Mitzvah of supporting Israel and saving lives Much has happened since our previous newsletter and I would like to share some highlights. On the last night of Chanukah, communal leaders, politicians and dignitaries joined our major supporters in inaugurating Mr Robert Magid as our Patron. Bob and his dear wife Ruth have inspired us with their genuine love for Israel as well as their admiration of Magen David Adom. We are so proud to have them as part of the MDA family. We started the calendar year with our Red Sunday Telethon to raise funds for blood filters on behalf of MDA Israel’s Blood Services. It was stimulating to see the diverse groups of volunteers, many of whom were from the Jewish Day Schools and Zionist youth groups. Our Annual Solicitors and Accountants Business Luncheon was held once again at the Bank of Queensland offices. We were privileged to have Justice Annabelle Bennett AO as our guest speaker and she enthralled and challenged the audience with her comments and observations from her years as a Judge of the Roch Kasimov BOQ and Justice Federal Court of Australia. Annabelle Bennett I would like to express my gratitude to Lawrence Stander and Charles Beck who recently retired as Board Members and at the same time to welcome our new Board colleagues Josh Bolot, Mark Josman and, our incoming Honorary Secretary, Ilana Sackar. There is often discussion within the community of next generation leadership and I am delighted that we are increasing such representation on our Board and building the foundations for effective succession planning. At the time of writing, we are in advanced negotiations with an outstanding speaker to address our main function on 31 July 2016. Please save this date for what promises to be an extraordinary communal event and inspiring opportunity to express your solidarity with Israel and MDA. On behalf of the Board and Staff of NSW Friends of MDA, I take this opportunity to thank you personally in anticipation of your ongoing support and wish you and your dear families Chag Pesach Kasher VeSameach, Happy Passover. Sponsored by Golden Lifestyles Roland Nagel, President 2 7 PESACH 2016 Christian Friends of MDA In November I went to Israel and was privileged to spend two days with Nathalie Blackham, Executive Director of Christian Friends of MDA and Norman Feingold, the founder of CFMDA. They arranged for me to visit the Bloomberg Station in Jerusalem to get a firsthand account of the operational procedures of MDA. We were joined by Bishop Moses Owusu-Sekyere, a bishop from the UK, also interested in supporting MDA’s work. Ido Golan-Gutin firstly gave us a talk and video presentation on the history and recent works of MDA. We then toured the station, visiting the all-important control room and viewing inside the various vehicles of their ambulance fleet. I spent the second day with Nathalie and Norman in the offices in Tel Aviv, seeing how they work and talking about Christian involvement and the building of relationships between our two communities through love, respect and support. I am thankful for the wonderful opportunity to see the incredible work that MDA does in saving precious lives. Our hope is to encourage and motivate other churches and Christians to stand with and support the Jewish people and the Nation of Israel. Louise Southwell, Co-ordinator Louise Southwell, Nathalie Blackham, Norman Feingold, Bishop Owusu-Sekyere and Ido Golan-Gutin It’s an honour - MDA Patron, Robert Magid Roland Nagel presents Robert Magid with a commemorative medallion Melissa McCurdie makes a floral presentation to Ruth Magid assisted by Roland Nagel HE Shmuel Ben Shmuel, Israeli Ambassador lights a candle while Rabbi Benji Levy looks on A welcome reception was held last December to honour MDA’s newly appointed Patron, Robert Magid, in the harbour side home of business and communal identity Harry Triguboff AO. The function was attended by a number of dignitaries including the Israeli Ambassador, His Excellency Shmuel ben Shmuel, Gabrielle Upton MP, NSW Attorney General, Cr Sally Betts, Mayor of Waverley, distinguished communal leaders representing local and Israel based organisations as well as MDA’s major supporters. Robert Magid described his new role as “an honour”. “There are a lot of very valuable causes and useful organisations that do good work, but one has to choose an organisation that one can strongly identify with,” Magid said. “Here’s an organisation that saves lives. It doesn’t discriminate who their patients are. You always see MDA ambulances when there’s a terrorist attack; it’s a lifesaving organisation and it’s an honour to be associated with it.” Magid said the organisation is particularly close to his heart given his history in the Israeli medical field. “I got involved Flying the flag for MDA & Israel Bruce Block, 87, a retired grazier in remote country New South Wales is a staunch believer and benefactor of Magen David Adom’s lifesaving work. Proudly flying the Australian and Israeli flags on his property in idyllic Dorrigo is one way that Bruce displays his support for Israel which he feels is generally misunderstood and misrepresented in the Australian press. He has visited Israel and is very concerned about the growing incidents of terrorism and stabbing attacks. With an understanding of the increased calls on MDA’s services, Bruce recently donated funds for a First Responder Motor scooter to help paramedics reach and treat victims more speedily. Roland Nagel and Tamara Lowbeer recently paid Bruce a visit and were overwhelmed by the elderly gentleman’s depth of feeling for MDA and Israel. He speaks proudly of his support of Israel and of the NSW Jewish community. Roland Nagel gives Bruce a useful First Aid Kit Blakehurst - Bayside Park • 02 9546 2897 Chatswood - Windsor Gardens • 02 9415 3470 Lindfield - Lindfield Manor • 02 9416 2868 Northbridge - Northbridge Gardens • 02 9958 5386 North Parramatta - Oatland Gardens • 02 9683 5544 Rose Bay - Rose Bay Towers • 02 9371 7161 Strathfield - Strathfield Gardens • 02 9742 6048 BUILT, OWNED AND OPERATED BY MILLIE PHILLIPS www.goldenlifestyles.com.au Bruce explained that he first became interested in Israel and the Jewish faith in 1986 when his father, Abraham Samuel Block died. That was when he started to donate to various Jewish charities. Through his association with the NSW Board of Deputies, he was asked to distribute leaflets about the Holocaust to schools in the Coffs Harbour area. In Israel, Bruce has planted trees in the Yizkor Forest and has contributed to the building of a water reservoir, all dedicated in the name of his late father. He is also interested in the provision of lifesaving medical equipment and the infrastructure that supports this work. In the last few years, his help has been in the form of two ambulances to MDA – one, named in honour of his late father, Abraham Samuel Block is located in Kiryat Gat in the south which is close to Gaza and a second, on behalf of the Dorrigo community, is in the Gilboa region in the north. “I strongly believe that one should contribute to charities whilst one is still alive. By doing this one gains valuable insight into their activities and needs and can distribute the funds accordingly,” Bruce says. “As a grazier, who only retired at 85, I have sufficient income to meet my own needs and the rest can be used for deserving causes. I believe this is an example that others should follow”. Bruce Block proudly shows Roland his Israeli flag Bruce started off his working life as an accountant followed by 23 years in the RAAF (Royal Australian Air Force) when he retired as a Wing Commander. He returned to accountancy in Canberra but tired of city life. After several attempts at finding a suitable property, he settled on 275 acres outside of Dorrigo to pursue his passion breeding and raising Limousin cattle. He has lived there for the past 30 years and although retired, he still loves the farm and its surrounds, the beauty and the serenity. Roland Nagel was full of praise, “Bruce is a truly a courageous gentleman. Behind his humble, unassuming nature, is a proud and strong supporter of Israel who shows his admiration of MDA’s precious lifesaving work in the most tangible and direct manner. We salute Bruce and wish him the strength and health to continue to inspire us all for many more years.” You too can save lives Magen David Adom relies heavily on financial support from its Friends around the world. This can be in the form of gifts made during your lifetime, as Bruce Block has done, see story above, giving you the opportunity to see firsthand the benefits that have resulted from your generosity. Alternatively, you may choose to include a gift in your Will to Magen David Adom through Magen David Adom NSW, to reflect your wider concerns for MDA’s future to be able to provide continued care to the citizens of Israel with the latest emergency medical equipment and know how. A gift in your Will can be a proportion of your estate or residue after you have made provision for your family; a specific amount to be applied to the greatest need at the time or for a specific purpose which you can nominate, for example an ambulance. If you have included a gift to Magen David Adom in your Will, please let us know. It would be a privilege to thank you and honour your generosity during your lifetime. Please fill in the enclosed confidential response card and mail it to the President in the reply paid envelope provided. It will make all the difference to many lives in the years to come. 6 PESACH 2016 Celebrate simchas with lifesaving certificates & cards By choosing to give your family and friends a beautiful, personalized certificate or card indicating that you have made a donation to Magen David Adom in their honour, you will be helping MDA to save lives daily. These donations assist with the funding of urgently needed medical equipment for Israel’s Emergency Medical Service. Since the Chanukah issue of the Lifesaver the following people have been honoured in this special way. BNEI MITZVAH David Charek Marnie Fischl Tori Helfend Gil Isaac Samuel Tali Sinani FOR BIRTHDAYS Births Craig & Angela Marcus Uri Chai Stein 40th Carmel Pinshaw Gil Sabbag 60th Evelyn Freeland Zena Grevler Marylin Jankelowitz Karyn Moskow Shirley Politzer George & Yvonne Rosettenstein 65th Steve Schuck Hymie Gamerov John Gleiber Renate Kaplan Dennis Maister Edith Port John Ratzker Allan Sher Diane Shteinman David Singer Gerald Yarm 85th Moi Gordon 90th Alice Adamek Mary Baskin Bernhard Lazarus David Levy Susan Marks Bertha Moser 95th Lilly Dresdner 100th Rae Bass OTHER CERTIFICATES Engagement Justine Pianko & Stephen Herrman Weddings Beth Berman & Lyon Robinson Debbie Javen & Shane Sullivan Anniversaries 40th Cecil & Glynis Bass Howard & Pam Sher 50th June & Mike Appleberg Pat & Sid Drutman Phil & Marian Jaffe Hospitality Charles & Vivienne Beck Barry & Ros Den David & Gilda Hardy Peter & Cathy Holloway George Jacobs & Janice Hirshorn Ian & Anita Jacobi Milton & Tamara Levine Sandy & Colin Lipworth Hilton & Liz Sacks Phil & Gloria Silver Phil & Debbie Wick In Honour and Appreciation Gillian, Ilana & Monique Heller MDA Book Club David Taub The Bondi Walkers In Memory Rose Bat Mizlee 60th Naomi & Alan Schaffer Ursula & Ivan Cher Sara & Ben Kurzer 70th Sue Jowell Leigh Levin Gloria Munitz 80th Requesting a MDA gift certificate or card couldn’t be easier: Cecil Albert Morris Eskin Rae Bass who recently celebrated her 100th birthday beamed with joy to have her family and friends around her on her special day. Mazal tov to an amazing woman. Other Birthday Morris Eskin is no stranger to MDA. A past President and Board Member, Morris is still an active MDA volunteer. He is seen here blowing out the candles on his 80th birthday cake, helped by his youngest granddaughter, Sacha Gross. Edgar Stein Simon Tatz Irving Wallach Annette Wegman Bernice Bachmayer Tova Blumberg Daphne Fraser Liliane Frenkel Anna Krel Deborah Mourmourits Gary & Tracey Newfield Brad Rubinstein Linda Rybak Adele Schaverien • Go online at www.magendavidadom.org.au • Phone the MDA office 9358 2521 • Email [email protected] • Post cheque to PO Box 293, Edgecliff NSW 2027 Please advise payment details – credit card (American Express, Visa or Mastercard), who is to be honoured (and the occasion) or remembered, a short message and where the certificate or card is to be sent. during the Gaza war when I saw what was happening, and the importance of ambulances and immediate response,” he said. “I was also a medic in the Israeli army and had some understanding of what was happening in ambulances.” Making a presentation to Robert Magid, Roland Nagel said “the NSW Friends of Magen David Adom is delighted to appoint Robert as its Patron in appreciation and recognition of his outstanding dedication and commitment to Israel and the local community. Through TMG Developments, Robert has been the principal sponsor of our highly successful campaign functions over the last two years and together with his charming wife, Ruth, hosted a private breakfast briefing earlier in 2015 enabling us to raise funds for a compact defibrillator unit for a medicycle.” In January, Robert & Ruth Magid toured the National Medical Dispatch Centre (NMDC) guided by Yoni Yagadovsky and Ido Golan-Gutin from the International Department. They were taken through the command centre viewing the various vehicles: motorcycles, ambulances and blood mobiles and were provided details about the operations nationwide. Robert said, “We understand that no other country has such a comprehensive health response service and assistance is provided not only in Israel but in other countries where emergency services are required. It is particularly impressive that three years after the earthquake in Haiti, MDA is continuing their assistance while all the other national emergency services have left. We were shown the emergency equipment in the vehicles using the latest technology for command and control, back to base communication, resuscitation and breathing equipment, pharmaceutical options available for emergencies, etc. Above all is the enthusiasm among staff and obviously the volunteers. Israel is in the unique position of having to deal with catastrophic situations which other countries don’t even dream of. An extraordinary organisation.” Note from editor – If you are planning a trip to Israel and would like to visit an MDA facility such as the National Medical Dispatch Centre or Blood Bank in Tel Aviv or the William H Bloomberg Station in Jerusalem, please phone Tamara Lowbeer on 9358 2521 at the MDA office to make arrangements. Roland Nagel, Charmaine Roth, Gabrielle Upton MP, Danny Goulburn and Stanley Roth Roland Nagel, Ilana Gridiger, Eli Tal and Roland Gridiger Isabelle and Harold Shapiro and Cr Sally Betts Gerda & Joseph Brender light a candle Robert & Ruth are briefed on the National Medical Dispatch Centre Moriah College students dedicate medicycle 130 Moriah College students gathered in the Old City of Jerusalem on December 27 for a moving ceremony to dedicate a First Responder Medicycle in memory of Rabbi Yaakov Litman z”l and Netanel Chai Litman z”l. The students had raised funds for a Medicycle for MDA after hearing of the tragic murder of father and son. The ceremony concluded the students’ IST visit to Israel. Moriah College students assembled in the Old City Rabbi Benji Levy, Dean of Jewish Life & Learning at Moriah College and leader of the group said to the students: “Despite the tragedy and the sorrow, you managed to rise up with the grieving family and provide the people of Israel with a lifesaving gift. This is a tremendous act that shows mutual caring and honors the memory of Rabbi Yaakov Litman z”l and Netanel Chai Litman z”l, father and son, teacher and student. Together with the Jewish community of New South Wales and MDA NSW you have successfully showed your support for Israel”. Ido Golan-Gutin, Manager of the Australian Desk of the MDA International Relations Department, thanked the students of the group on behalf of MDA and congratulated them on the amazing Mitzvah that they fulfilled by providing MDA with the lifesaving Medicycle. 4 Luncheon for Professionals Melissa McCurdie, Justice Annabelle Bennett and Roland Nagel Justice Annabelle Bennett and Leon Ratner Andrew Steiner and Ron Moss 5 PESACH 2016 Prime Minister’s letter of congratulations to MDA Justice Annabelle Bennett AO was the entertaining and informative guest speaker at the NSW Friends of MDA’s annual luncheon for professionals – Barristers, Solicitors, Accountants, Financial Planners and Advisors held in the offices of Bank of Queensland in March. A popular event in MDA’s calendar this year again gave professionals a chance to network and socialise over lunch and earn professional education points. In his welcome, President Roland Nagel noted that it was gratifying to see a good age and gender mix of professionals present. He pointed out the importance of bequests to Magen David Adom enabling the continued funding of lifesaving services well into the future. A film was screened showing heightened MDA activities during the current period of terror. Justice Bennett’s presentation touched on how court cases appear from the perspective of the judge and the challenges of writing judgements, given the different audiences for whom they are intended. Peppered with anecdotes from her lengthy career on the Bench, Justice Bennett gave personal insights into some of the cases that have come before her. Justice Bennett also expressed her deep concern and that of her colleagues at the mounting costs involved with litigation making it difficult for the ordinary man to be able to afford. She noted that judges are aware of the need to address these issues. The luncheon was well attended with ample time for guests to mingle and network. Justice Bennett has since retired from the Bench and we at Magen David Adom wish her every success in her future pursuits. Roland Nagel, Jacqui Bakker and Mark Josman Daniel Goldberg, Rick Narev and Josh Bolot The Wave of Terror in Israel and the constant acts of terror against Israelis overseas along with the continued threat from both the north and south has meant that the citizens of Israel are having to to deal with great challenges and MDA, Israel’s national rescue service, is with them hand in hand. Anytime, anywhere, in routine and in emergency. Read the congratulatory letter from PM Netanyahu to the teams of MDA, workers and volunteers. MDA Director General, Eli Bin, was moved by the PM’s warm words and added: “I join in these sentiments to the workers and volunteers of Prime Minister MDA, continue your tremendous Jerusalem and blessed work!” th March 30 2016 David Adom Letter of congratulations to Magen its and lifesaving activities For its ongoing treatment of patients Dear Eli Bin, MDA Director General, in Israel. For longest serving lifesaving organization Magen David Adom is the largest and since – MDA se cour ment of the State of Israel and of decades – even prior to the establish on injured or pers any to e the ready to provide assistanc teams have always been standing at in a life threatening situation. saved a whole s a single soul... is as though he had The dictum holds true, "Whoever save exactly this. r organization should be credited with world," and those affiliated with you . In routine times teams is not limited to hours or days The readiness and alertness of MDA y out emergency always there – providing first aid, carr and in times of emergency, you are d drives and bloo ing the general public, organizing lifesaving medical procedures, train tantly cons is tion a national asset. The organiza running the national blood services, rol of field cont and d man gies, enabling better com developing and adopting new technolo d. nee in e thos all to nt lity medical treatme activities, as well as providing high qua David Greenberg, Nicole Ellison and Simon Horry Manfred Holzman, Justin Holzman and Roland Nagel y and l have been witness to the responsibilit Over the last year, the citizens of Israe ent wave of curr this ng Duri rs. ntee volu and employees dedication which characterizes MDA y. It is not injur of ls dreds of casualties with varying leve terror, MDA teams have treated hun g peace of givin ut abo ting injuries or pain relief, but also only about resuscitation efforts, trea nce that sura reas them g e injured and suffering and givin re mind and encouragement to all thos enti the of ion pass com ful mission grants you the they will never be left alone. Your faith spectrum of the Israeli public. years ago, the goes beyond the borders of Israel. Ten The appreciation that MDA receives ee of the Red member of the International Committ organization was welcomed as a full cken areas all representatives travel to disaster-stri Cross Red Crescent Movement. MDA hand to those ing r own safety – stretching out a help over the world, even at the risk of thei carried out is k wor religious persuasions. This sacred in distress, from all nationalities and essionalism. with the utmost sensitivity and prof to continue with deepest appreciation. I wish for you MDA team members, I give you my h and succeed. fort Go r. labo sed s of your unsurpas your mission and see the blessed fruit Blood filters for Israel On February 7, volunteers from the community, schools and Zionist youth movements worked the phones for Magen David Adom’s Red Sunday Telethon. Some volunteers came in family groups, parents and children and grandparents and grandchildren all with the one aim – to make the Telethon a success. This year’s goal was to raise enough money to be able to provide 12,000 blood filters for children and cancer patients amongst others and the community responded generously. President Roland Nagel commented, “The response reflects our community’s willingness to support MDA’s requirements. MDA Israel is most appreciative of our community’s effort; maintaining blood supplies is paramount at all times. What we have achieved is tremendously valuable and important.” Thanks go to Tony and Carolyn Ziegler who made their Tee-Zed offices in Bondi Junction available for phoning and to Katzy’s and Jesse’s Bakery for providing food for the volunteers and to the volunteers for devoting their valuable time. Cecile Radomsky Liron Smith Dassi Taub and Becky Dunkel Ilana Sackar and Vivian Gorney With kind regards, Benjamin Netanyahu visits MDA Jerusalem Station Makayla Levy Bettina Mucsnik employees, volunteers and friends, Benjamin Netanyahu 4 Luncheon for Professionals Melissa McCurdie, Justice Annabelle Bennett and Roland Nagel Justice Annabelle Bennett and Leon Ratner Andrew Steiner and Ron Moss 5 PESACH 2016 Prime Minister’s letter of congratulations to MDA Justice Annabelle Bennett AO was the entertaining and informative guest speaker at the NSW Friends of MDA’s annual luncheon for professionals – Barristers, Solicitors, Accountants, Financial Planners and Advisors held in the offices of Bank of Queensland in March. A popular event in MDA’s calendar this year again gave professionals a chance to network and socialise over lunch and earn professional education points. In his welcome, President Roland Nagel noted that it was gratifying to see a good age and gender mix of professionals present. He pointed out the importance of bequests to Magen David Adom enabling the continued funding of lifesaving services well into the future. A film was screened showing heightened MDA activities during the current period of terror. Justice Bennett’s presentation touched on how court cases appear from the perspective of the judge and the challenges of writing judgements, given the different audiences for whom they are intended. Peppered with anecdotes from her lengthy career on the Bench, Justice Bennett gave personal insights into some of the cases that have come before her. Justice Bennett also expressed her deep concern and that of her colleagues at the mounting costs involved with litigation making it difficult for the ordinary man to be able to afford. She noted that judges are aware of the need to address these issues. The luncheon was well attended with ample time for guests to mingle and network. Justice Bennett has since retired from the Bench and we at Magen David Adom wish her every success in her future pursuits. Roland Nagel, Jacqui Bakker and Mark Josman Daniel Goldberg, Rick Narev and Josh Bolot The Wave of Terror in Israel and the constant acts of terror against Israelis overseas along with the continued threat from both the north and south has meant that the citizens of Israel are having to to deal with great challenges and MDA, Israel’s national rescue service, is with them hand in hand. Anytime, anywhere, in routine and in emergency. Read the congratulatory letter from PM Netanyahu to the teams of MDA, workers and volunteers. MDA Director General, Eli Bin, was moved by the PM’s warm words and added: “I join in these sentiments to the workers and volunteers of Prime Minister MDA, continue your tremendous Jerusalem and blessed work!” th March 30 2016 David Adom Letter of congratulations to Magen its and lifesaving activities For its ongoing treatment of patients Dear Eli Bin, MDA Director General, in Israel. For longest serving lifesaving organization Magen David Adom is the largest and since – MDA se cour ment of the State of Israel and of decades – even prior to the establish on injured or pers any to e the ready to provide assistanc teams have always been standing at in a life threatening situation. saved a whole s a single soul... is as though he had The dictum holds true, "Whoever save exactly this. r organization should be credited with world," and those affiliated with you . In routine times teams is not limited to hours or days The readiness and alertness of MDA y out emergency always there – providing first aid, carr and in times of emergency, you are d drives and bloo ing the general public, organizing lifesaving medical procedures, train tantly cons is tion a national asset. The organiza running the national blood services, rol of field cont and d man gies, enabling better com developing and adopting new technolo d. nee in e thos all to nt lity medical treatme activities, as well as providing high qua David Greenberg, Nicole Ellison and Simon Horry Manfred Holzman, Justin Holzman and Roland Nagel y and l have been witness to the responsibilit Over the last year, the citizens of Israe ent wave of curr this ng Duri rs. ntee volu and employees dedication which characterizes MDA y. It is not injur of ls dreds of casualties with varying leve terror, MDA teams have treated hun g peace of givin ut abo ting injuries or pain relief, but also only about resuscitation efforts, trea nce that sura reas them g e injured and suffering and givin re mind and encouragement to all thos enti the of ion pass com ful mission grants you the they will never be left alone. Your faith spectrum of the Israeli public. years ago, the goes beyond the borders of Israel. Ten The appreciation that MDA receives ee of the Red member of the International Committ organization was welcomed as a full cken areas all representatives travel to disaster-stri Cross Red Crescent Movement. MDA hand to those ing r own safety – stretching out a help over the world, even at the risk of thei carried out is k wor religious persuasions. This sacred in distress, from all nationalities and essionalism. with the utmost sensitivity and prof to continue with deepest appreciation. I wish for you MDA team members, I give you my h and succeed. fort Go r. labo sed s of your unsurpas your mission and see the blessed fruit Blood filters for Israel On February 7, volunteers from the community, schools and Zionist youth movements worked the phones for Magen David Adom’s Red Sunday Telethon. Some volunteers came in family groups, parents and children and grandparents and grandchildren all with the one aim – to make the Telethon a success. This year’s goal was to raise enough money to be able to provide 12,000 blood filters for children and cancer patients amongst others and the community responded generously. President Roland Nagel commented, “The response reflects our community’s willingness to support MDA’s requirements. MDA Israel is most appreciative of our community’s effort; maintaining blood supplies is paramount at all times. What we have achieved is tremendously valuable and important.” Thanks go to Tony and Carolyn Ziegler who made their Tee-Zed offices in Bondi Junction available for phoning and to Katzy’s and Jesse’s Bakery for providing food for the volunteers and to the volunteers for devoting their valuable time. Cecile Radomsky Liron Smith Dassi Taub and Becky Dunkel Ilana Sackar and Vivian Gorney With kind regards, Benjamin Netanyahu visits MDA Jerusalem Station Makayla Levy Bettina Mucsnik employees, volunteers and friends, Benjamin Netanyahu 6 PESACH 2016 Celebrate simchas with lifesaving certificates & cards By choosing to give your family and friends a beautiful, personalized certificate or card indicating that you have made a donation to Magen David Adom in their honour, you will be helping MDA to save lives daily. These donations assist with the funding of urgently needed medical equipment for Israel’s Emergency Medical Service. Since the Chanukah issue of the Lifesaver the following people have been honoured in this special way. BNEI MITZVAH David Charek Marnie Fischl Tori Helfend Gil Isaac Samuel Tali Sinani FOR BIRTHDAYS Births Craig & Angela Marcus Uri Chai Stein 40th Carmel Pinshaw Gil Sabbag 60th Evelyn Freeland Zena Grevler Marylin Jankelowitz Karyn Moskow Shirley Politzer George & Yvonne Rosettenstein 65th Steve Schuck Hymie Gamerov John Gleiber Renate Kaplan Dennis Maister Edith Port John Ratzker Allan Sher Diane Shteinman David Singer Gerald Yarm 85th Moi Gordon 90th Alice Adamek Mary Baskin Bernhard Lazarus David Levy Susan Marks Bertha Moser 95th Lilly Dresdner 100th Rae Bass OTHER CERTIFICATES Engagement Justine Pianko & Stephen Herrman Weddings Beth Berman & Lyon Robinson Debbie Javen & Shane Sullivan Anniversaries 40th Cecil & Glynis Bass Howard & Pam Sher 50th June & Mike Appleberg Pat & Sid Drutman Phil & Marian Jaffe Hospitality Charles & Vivienne Beck Barry & Ros Den David & Gilda Hardy Peter & Cathy Holloway George Jacobs & Janice Hirshorn Ian & Anita Jacobi Milton & Tamara Levine Sandy & Colin Lipworth Hilton & Liz Sacks Phil & Gloria Silver Phil & Debbie Wick In Honour and Appreciation Gillian, Ilana & Monique Heller MDA Book Club David Taub The Bondi Walkers In Memory Rose Bat Mizlee 60th Naomi & Alan Schaffer Ursula & Ivan Cher Sara & Ben Kurzer 70th Sue Jowell Leigh Levin Gloria Munitz 80th Requesting a MDA gift certificate or card couldn’t be easier: Cecil Albert Morris Eskin Rae Bass who recently celebrated her 100th birthday beamed with joy to have her family and friends around her on her special day. Mazal tov to an amazing woman. Other Birthday Morris Eskin is no stranger to MDA. A past President and Board Member, Morris is still an active MDA volunteer. He is seen here blowing out the candles on his 80th birthday cake, helped by his youngest granddaughter, Sacha Gross. Edgar Stein Simon Tatz Irving Wallach Annette Wegman Bernice Bachmayer Tova Blumberg Daphne Fraser Liliane Frenkel Anna Krel Deborah Mourmourits Gary & Tracey Newfield Brad Rubinstein Linda Rybak Adele Schaverien • Go online at www.magendavidadom.org.au • Phone the MDA office 9358 2521 • Email [email protected] • Post cheque to PO Box 293, Edgecliff NSW 2027 Please advise payment details – credit card (American Express, Visa or Mastercard), who is to be honoured (and the occasion) or remembered, a short message and where the certificate or card is to be sent. during the Gaza war when I saw what was happening, and the importance of ambulances and immediate response,” he said. “I was also a medic in the Israeli army and had some understanding of what was happening in ambulances.” Making a presentation to Robert Magid, Roland Nagel said “the NSW Friends of Magen David Adom is delighted to appoint Robert as its Patron in appreciation and recognition of his outstanding dedication and commitment to Israel and the local community. Through TMG Developments, Robert has been the principal sponsor of our highly successful campaign functions over the last two years and together with his charming wife, Ruth, hosted a private breakfast briefing earlier in 2015 enabling us to raise funds for a compact defibrillator unit for a medicycle.” In January, Robert & Ruth Magid toured the National Medical Dispatch Centre (NMDC) guided by Yoni Yagadovsky and Ido Golan-Gutin from the International Department. They were taken through the command centre viewing the various vehicles: motorcycles, ambulances and blood mobiles and were provided details about the operations nationwide. Robert said, “We understand that no other country has such a comprehensive health response service and assistance is provided not only in Israel but in other countries where emergency services are required. It is particularly impressive that three years after the earthquake in Haiti, MDA is continuing their assistance while all the other national emergency services have left. We were shown the emergency equipment in the vehicles using the latest technology for command and control, back to base communication, resuscitation and breathing equipment, pharmaceutical options available for emergencies, etc. Above all is the enthusiasm among staff and obviously the volunteers. Israel is in the unique position of having to deal with catastrophic situations which other countries don’t even dream of. An extraordinary organisation.” Note from editor – If you are planning a trip to Israel and would like to visit an MDA facility such as the National Medical Dispatch Centre or Blood Bank in Tel Aviv or the William H Bloomberg Station in Jerusalem, please phone Tamara Lowbeer on 9358 2521 at the MDA office to make arrangements. Roland Nagel, Charmaine Roth, Gabrielle Upton MP, Danny Goulburn and Stanley Roth Roland Nagel, Ilana Gridiger, Eli Tal and Roland Gridiger Isabelle and Harold Shapiro and Cr Sally Betts Gerda & Joseph Brender light a candle Robert & Ruth are briefed on the National Medical Dispatch Centre Moriah College students dedicate medicycle 130 Moriah College students gathered in the Old City of Jerusalem on December 27 for a moving ceremony to dedicate a First Responder Medicycle in memory of Rabbi Yaakov Litman z”l and Netanel Chai Litman z”l. The students had raised funds for a Medicycle for MDA after hearing of the tragic murder of father and son. The ceremony concluded the students’ IST visit to Israel. Moriah College students assembled in the Old City Rabbi Benji Levy, Dean of Jewish Life & Learning at Moriah College and leader of the group said to the students: “Despite the tragedy and the sorrow, you managed to rise up with the grieving family and provide the people of Israel with a lifesaving gift. This is a tremendous act that shows mutual caring and honors the memory of Rabbi Yaakov Litman z”l and Netanel Chai Litman z”l, father and son, teacher and student. Together with the Jewish community of New South Wales and MDA NSW you have successfully showed your support for Israel”. Ido Golan-Gutin, Manager of the Australian Desk of the MDA International Relations Department, thanked the students of the group on behalf of MDA and congratulated them on the amazing Mitzvah that they fulfilled by providing MDA with the lifesaving Medicycle. 2 7 PESACH 2016 Christian Friends of MDA In November I went to Israel and was privileged to spend two days with Nathalie Blackham, Executive Director of Christian Friends of MDA and Norman Feingold, the founder of CFMDA. They arranged for me to visit the Bloomberg Station in Jerusalem to get a firsthand account of the operational procedures of MDA. We were joined by Bishop Moses Owusu-Sekyere, a bishop from the UK, also interested in supporting MDA’s work. Ido Golan-Gutin firstly gave us a talk and video presentation on the history and recent works of MDA. We then toured the station, visiting the all-important control room and viewing inside the various vehicles of their ambulance fleet. I spent the second day with Nathalie and Norman in the offices in Tel Aviv, seeing how they work and talking about Christian involvement and the building of relationships between our two communities through love, respect and support. I am thankful for the wonderful opportunity to see the incredible work that MDA does in saving precious lives. Our hope is to encourage and motivate other churches and Christians to stand with and support the Jewish people and the Nation of Israel. Louise Southwell, Co-ordinator Louise Southwell, Nathalie Blackham, Norman Feingold, Bishop Owusu-Sekyere and Ido Golan-Gutin It’s an honour - MDA Patron, Robert Magid Roland Nagel presents Robert Magid with a commemorative medallion Melissa McCurdie makes a floral presentation to Ruth Magid assisted by Roland Nagel HE Shmuel Ben Shmuel, Israeli Ambassador lights a candle while Rabbi Benji Levy looks on A welcome reception was held last December to honour MDA’s newly appointed Patron, Robert Magid, in the harbour side home of business and communal identity Harry Triguboff AO. The function was attended by a number of dignitaries including the Israeli Ambassador, His Excellency Shmuel ben Shmuel, Gabrielle Upton MP, NSW Attorney General, Cr Sally Betts, Mayor of Waverley, distinguished communal leaders representing local and Israel based organisations as well as MDA’s major supporters. Robert Magid described his new role as “an honour”. “There are a lot of very valuable causes and useful organisations that do good work, but one has to choose an organisation that one can strongly identify with,” Magid said. “Here’s an organisation that saves lives. It doesn’t discriminate who their patients are. You always see MDA ambulances when there’s a terrorist attack; it’s a lifesaving organisation and it’s an honour to be associated with it.” Magid said the organisation is particularly close to his heart given his history in the Israeli medical field. “I got involved Flying the flag for MDA & Israel Bruce Block, 87, a retired grazier in remote country New South Wales is a staunch believer and benefactor of Magen David Adom’s lifesaving work. Proudly flying the Australian and Israeli flags on his property in idyllic Dorrigo is one way that Bruce displays his support for Israel which he feels is generally misunderstood and misrepresented in the Australian press. He has visited Israel and is very concerned about the growing incidents of terrorism and stabbing attacks. With an understanding of the increased calls on MDA’s services, Bruce recently donated funds for a First Responder Motor scooter to help paramedics reach and treat victims more speedily. Roland Nagel and Tamara Lowbeer recently paid Bruce a visit and were overwhelmed by the elderly gentleman’s depth of feeling for MDA and Israel. He speaks proudly of his support of Israel and of the NSW Jewish community. Roland Nagel gives Bruce a useful First Aid Kit Blakehurst - Bayside Park • 02 9546 2897 Chatswood - Windsor Gardens • 02 9415 3470 Lindfield - Lindfield Manor • 02 9416 2868 Northbridge - Northbridge Gardens • 02 9958 5386 North Parramatta - Oatland Gardens • 02 9683 5544 Rose Bay - Rose Bay Towers • 02 9371 7161 Strathfield - Strathfield Gardens • 02 9742 6048 BUILT, OWNED AND OPERATED BY MILLIE PHILLIPS www.goldenlifestyles.com.au Bruce explained that he first became interested in Israel and the Jewish faith in 1986 when his father, Abraham Samuel Block died. That was when he started to donate to various Jewish charities. Through his association with the NSW Board of Deputies, he was asked to distribute leaflets about the Holocaust to schools in the Coffs Harbour area. In Israel, Bruce has planted trees in the Yizkor Forest and has contributed to the building of a water reservoir, all dedicated in the name of his late father. He is also interested in the provision of lifesaving medical equipment and the infrastructure that supports this work. In the last few years, his help has been in the form of two ambulances to MDA – one, named in honour of his late father, Abraham Samuel Block is located in Kiryat Gat in the south which is close to Gaza and a second, on behalf of the Dorrigo community, is in the Gilboa region in the north. “I strongly believe that one should contribute to charities whilst one is still alive. By doing this one gains valuable insight into their activities and needs and can distribute the funds accordingly,” Bruce says. “As a grazier, who only retired at 85, I have sufficient income to meet my own needs and the rest can be used for deserving causes. I believe this is an example that others should follow”. Bruce Block proudly shows Roland his Israeli flag Bruce started off his working life as an accountant followed by 23 years in the RAAF (Royal Australian Air Force) when he retired as a Wing Commander. He returned to accountancy in Canberra but tired of city life. After several attempts at finding a suitable property, he settled on 275 acres outside of Dorrigo to pursue his passion breeding and raising Limousin cattle. He has lived there for the past 30 years and although retired, he still loves the farm and its surrounds, the beauty and the serenity. Roland Nagel was full of praise, “Bruce is a truly a courageous gentleman. Behind his humble, unassuming nature, is a proud and strong supporter of Israel who shows his admiration of MDA’s precious lifesaving work in the most tangible and direct manner. We salute Bruce and wish him the strength and health to continue to inspire us all for many more years.” You too can save lives Magen David Adom relies heavily on financial support from its Friends around the world. This can be in the form of gifts made during your lifetime, as Bruce Block has done, see story above, giving you the opportunity to see firsthand the benefits that have resulted from your generosity. Alternatively, you may choose to include a gift in your Will to Magen David Adom through Magen David Adom NSW, to reflect your wider concerns for MDA’s future to be able to provide continued care to the citizens of Israel with the latest emergency medical equipment and know how. A gift in your Will can be a proportion of your estate or residue after you have made provision for your family; a specific amount to be applied to the greatest need at the time or for a specific purpose which you can nominate, for example an ambulance. If you have included a gift to Magen David Adom in your Will, please let us know. It would be a privilege to thank you and honour your generosity during your lifetime. Please fill in the enclosed confidential response card and mail it to the President in the reply paid envelope provided. It will make all the difference to many lives in the years to come. 8 PESACH 2016 PESACH 2016 Upcoming Events MDA has some wonderful and varied events coming up this year. My Name is Asher Lev - May 14 at 8.15pm An evening of theatre with a special performance of My Name is Asher Lev at the Eternity Playhouse in Darlinghurst. The evening will feature an exclusive session with the daughter of the novelist and playwright Chaim Potok, actress Naama Potok; moderated by Jewish Board of Deputies CEO Vic Alhadeff. Tickets are $60, available through the trybooking website - link www.encounters.edu.au/AsherLev/mda. It’s a small theatre which is booking out fast, don’t miss out. Annual MDA Shabbat – July 8 & 9 In Synagogues around Sydney. MDA members and friends are encouraged to participate. Major Function – July 31 - evening An extraordinary communal event, definitely not to be missed – more details soon LIFESAVER THE A time of reflection, inspiration and freedom Entertainment Book 2016/2017 The Entertainment Book and the Entertainment Digital Membership – available for order NOW. Sydney & Surrounds $70 (plus postage and handling). For every book sold MDA receives $14. The most popular restaurants, attractions, shopping, travel and more, all with valuable up to 50% off and 2 for 1 offers. Order through the Entertaiment Book website www.entertainmentbook.com.au or phone the MDA office on 9358 2521. ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING NSW DIVISION will take place on SUNDAY MAY 29, 2016 at 10.30am at MACCABI TENNIS CLUB White City Complex 30 Alma St, Paddington Nominations for the Committee must be received by the Hon Secretary on the prescribed nomination forms no later than Friday May 20, 2016 at 4.00 pm EST. Members & donors welcome PO Box 293, Edgecliff NSW 2027 Tel 9358 2521 Fax 9358 3893 E [email protected] www.magendavidadom.org.au MDA NSW Directory COMMITTEE President Roland Nagel Vice President Tony Ziegler Hon Secretary Ilana Sackar Hon Treasurer Peter Sheldon Josh Bolot Mark Josman Danielle Lechem Melissa McCurdie Newsletter of The Friends of Magen David Adom (NSW) Inc OFFICE Please phone beforehand for appointment Accounts Yvonne Rawack Administration Tammy Zlattner Donations & Bequests Tamara Lowbeer Events Jodi Kofsky Friends of Magen David Adom (NSW) Inc PO Box 293 Edgecliff NSW 2027 Tel: (02) 9358 2521 Fax: (02) 9358 3893 Email [email protected] www.YMDA.org.au www.magendavidadom.org.au As we celebrate Pesach with our families and friends, it is heart-breaking to see our brothers and sisters in Israel are not free to carry on with their normal day-to-day lives without the fear of a stabbing, shooting, ramming or other senseless acts of terror being perpetrated against them. Thankfully, Israel’s Defence Forces are second to none in protecting our people and we can be equally proud of how the country’s national emergency and rescue services respond to these senseless attacks. In particular, the courage and bravery of Magen David Adom’s paramedics, medics and staff, most of whom are volunteers, who not only respond to the daily demands of accidents, medical emergencies and humanitarian relief, but the current wave of terror superimposes another layer of complexity and challenge. Our MDA heroes inspire us with their amazing dedication without regard to their own personal safety and security. In consequence, MDA Israel has identified a need to increase their fleet of First Responder Motorcycles (Medicycles) by an additional 50 units. MDA medics treat stabbing victim in a Tel Aviv street Medicycles can reach the scene of an emergency in a fraction of the time it would normally take enabling victims to be treated without delay. NSW Friends of Magen David Adom has pledged to raise funds so that MDA Israel can purchase as many Medicycles as possible. This would be a wonderful opportunity for those wishing to dedicate a Medicycle in honour or in memory of a loved one linking the Mitzvah of supporting Israel and saving lives Much has happened since our previous newsletter and I would like to share some highlights. On the last night of Chanukah, communal leaders, politicians and dignitaries joined our major supporters in inaugurating Mr Robert Magid as our Patron. Bob and his dear wife Ruth have inspired us with their genuine love for Israel as well as their admiration of Magen David Adom. We are so proud to have them as part of the MDA family. We started the calendar year with our Red Sunday Telethon to raise funds for blood filters on behalf of MDA Israel’s Blood Services. It was stimulating to see the diverse groups of volunteers, many of whom were from the Jewish Day Schools and Zionist youth groups. Our Annual Solicitors and Accountants Business Luncheon was held once again at the Bank of Queensland offices. We were privileged to have Justice Annabelle Bennett AO as our guest speaker and she enthralled and challenged the audience with her comments and observations from her years as a Judge of the Roch Kasimov BOQ and Justice Federal Court of Australia. Annabelle Bennett I would like to express my gratitude to Lawrence Stander and Charles Beck who recently retired as Board Members and at the same time to welcome our new Board colleagues Josh Bolot, Mark Josman and, our incoming Honorary Secretary, Ilana Sackar. There is often discussion within the community of next generation leadership and I am delighted that we are increasing such representation on our Board and building the foundations for effective succession planning. At the time of writing, we are in advanced negotiations with an outstanding speaker to address our main function on 31 July 2016. Please save this date for what promises to be an extraordinary communal event and inspiring opportunity to express your solidarity with Israel and MDA. On behalf of the Board and Staff of NSW Friends of MDA, I take this opportunity to thank you personally in anticipation of your ongoing support and wish you and your dear families Chag Pesach Kasher VeSameach, Happy Passover. Sponsored by Golden Lifestyles Roland Nagel, President