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Spring/Summer 2017 Young Leadership Network Newsletter

7/26/2017

2 Comments

 
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  • Hello from YLN National Committee Chair ​Ed Redensky​​
  • Hello from YLN National Committee 
    ​Vice Chair Rachel Silvestain
  • Events Recap​
  • Upcoming Events
  • YLN Abroad: United Kingdom & Europe
  • ​YLN Member Spotlight
  • Travel: Japan and Prague​​
  • New Membership Rates Available

 
Message from the Chair
This past spring I had the distinguished honor and pleasure of being part of B’nai B’rith International’s delegation to the U.N. Human Right Council in Geneva. B’nai B’rith members came from all over the world to discuss human rights with top world leaders. B’nai B’rith has members in countries all over the world, and despite knowing this, I still find myself occasionally stopping for a moment and thinking “B’nai B’rith International has members there?”
 
However, much to my delight and surprise, I found myself in the Great Synagogue of Florence. While on the tour, I noticed a display on B’nai B’rith International. 
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How did I end up in Florence? Well, while planning my trip, I figured that after spending three full days of non-stop advocacy meetings with various diplomats in their respective consulates around Geneva, I would need a little rest. So I decided to take some time and enjoy a vacation to Italy, and more importantly, a chance to learn more about civilization.
 
My first stop in Italy was the city of Venice. Venice is truly a unique city with so many interesting parts to see, and much like other cities in Europe, it has a Jewish history that is full of positive and negative aspects. I decided to visit the Jewish ghettos and take a tour of the synagogues and learn as much as I could on this trip.
​My next stop was Florence, where I explored local Jewish community history by going to the Great Synagogue. While I was there, I saw various ritual items, such as tefillin and talleisim. I saw the “Scroll of Fire” monument with the caption reading “Mt. Kesalon, outside Jerusalem,” which was commissioned by B’nai B’rith for its Martyrs Forest on the land of the Karen Kayemeth. This 26 foot bronze monument, by Nathan Rapapport, is a memorial to the 6,000,000 Nazi victims as a celebration of Israel’s rebirth. Seeing this monument made me realize that B’nai B’rith has so many members worldwide and it has had a huge impact on communities near and far.
 
My trip to Italy ended with a visit to Rome, which included such highlights as the Arc of Titas, a Jewish ghetto and the Great Synagogue of Rome. I also was able to attend a B’nai B’rith Lodge meeting in Rome, which is something that I truly cherished. It showed me that despite the horrors of the past, Jewish life and culture continues with B’nai B’rith International’s worldwide presence.
 
It is very empowering to know that there are people, despite geographical and national differences, who volunteer their time and energy on behalf of B’nai B’rith International, in order to make a difference in the world. You should too, so join me, and the Young Leadership Network, to find out how you can make a difference. Who knows, you could find yourself in Geneva or Rome next year! 

Ed Redensky
Chair, National Young Leadership Network
B’nai B’rith International   

 
Message from the Vice Chair
​Hello everyone! I want to talk about how I got involved with B’nai B’rith and the Young Leadership Network. For me, it all started in Boston, in the spring of 2014. I had been involved with B’nai B’rith in Denver for a short amount of time but didn’t have a love or connection to it, yet. I found out that the Young Leadership Network was organizing a Young Professionals Conference in Boston and decided to take a chance. I signed up!
 
During that short weekend, friendships were created and my appreciation for B’nai B’rith grew. Since then I have had the opportunity to not only visit a handful of U.S. cities but travel to a few foreign countries. B’nai B’rith is such a special organization in that it offers an international component to everything we do. This past spring, I was invited, by B’nai B’rith, to attend a mission to the U.N. in Geneva. I attended several Human Rights Council meetings. I met with dignitaries from across the world to discuss the many issues Israel and Jews face today. It was a great opportunity to connect with other B’nai B’rith participants from around the world as well, such as the president of B’nai B’rith Europe and others.
 
The opportunity to travel, meet with people from around the world and perform mitzvot is what makes B’nai B’rith so special. This fall B’nai B’rith is hosting its annual Leadership Forum in Prague. I invite you all to join me there for what will be a once in a lifetime experience that you can only find on a B’nai B’rith trip. This is such a great opportunity to not only get to know other young professionals from the states, but to meet the amazing young professionals we have in Europe, Israel, Latin America, the United Kingdom and more! The weekend will be full of fun activities, opportunities to see the city and learn more about the organization we all love. Attending that first conference in Boston three years ago showed me not only what a great organization B’nai B’rith is, but also the amazing people that are involved in its efforts. I hope that the convention in Prague can provide that same excitement I first had in Boston, and lead you on a similar path. 

Rachel Silvestain
Vice Chair, National Young Leadership Network
B’nai B’rith International   
​​

 
Events Recap
​South Florida
YLN-South Florida kicked off the year with a winter mixer on January 31, at the Funky Buddha Brewery in Oakland Park, Fla. This event has become a quarterly event, and members look forward to a laid back evening with drinks and food and the opportunity to met new people. They had a Wine and Cheese Party on April 4, which was graciously hosted by Scott Knapp, a member of the core committee, at his home in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. The group enjoyed tasting kosher wines and yummy snacks before Passover.

​On May 21, YLN-South Florida Chair Jessica Kreger hosted a Sushi Sake Sunday Night at her apartment building in Plantation, Fla.
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Guests enjoyed kosher sushi and sake while learning about YLN’s recent trip to Japan and B’nai B’rith International President Gary P. Saltzman spoke about the organization’s global advocacy efforts. Several leaders from South Florida also participated in the YLN trip to Japan in early March and spoke about their experiences. On July 20, the B’nai B’rith Justice Unit, Broward County Bar Young Lawyers Section and the B’nai B’rith Young Leadership Network-South Florida had a joint happy hour event to benefit Family Central. Attendees were asked to bring school supplies to be donated to Family Central, and enjoyed a night of networking and socializing for a good cause.

To learn more about BBYLN-South Florida, email youngleadership@bnaibrith.org. ​​
​
Detroit
YLN-Detroit has been off to a great start. On January 12, Samantha Lederman, YLN-Detroit chair, hosted a meet and greet event at her home. Several local leaders came out to talk about the organization and help get the group started. On March 31 they participated in Project H.O.P.E. (Help Our People Everywhere). They helped local B’nai B’rith volunteers make Passover food packages for the Jewish elderly and needy. In early April, the group participated in a Holocaust remembrance event with the B’nai B’rith Great Lakes Region, led by Joshua Goldberg. Lastly, on June 8, the group enjoyed a Fowling event.
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​If you’re curious to know more about Fowling, or upcoming events, email youngleadership@bnaibrith.org. ​
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Chicago
​YLN-Chicago kicked off spring with a Karaoke Happy Hour, which was hosted by Yana Karnaukhov in her apartment building’s bar. The event was inspired by the members’ recent trip to Japan, and their love of Karaoke. A group of about 20 members enjoyed snacks, drinks and some epic karaoke performances. Their next event was a Movie Night in the Park, to watch “Blues Brothers,” a Chicago classic. Unfortunately due to severe weather, the event was postponed, but the group does plan to reschedule it soon.
 
Many members of the core committee also went on the YLN trip to Japan in early March. On July 21, the group participated in Shabbat on the Lake, JCC Chicago’s premier lakefront event of the summer for young adults. B’nai B’rith was one of the sponsors of the event. The night was hosted by Jamie Elman of YidLife Crisis, and performances included spoken word with the Hebrew Mamita, Vanessa Hidary, beatbox with Yuri Basho Lane, rap with Kosha Dillz and funk rock with the David Forman Project. More than 700 people attended the event, including several members of BBYLN-Chicago.

For more information on BBYLN-Chicago, email BBYLNChicago@bnaibrith.org​.
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Denver
On June 22nd, Temple Emanuel hosted YLN-Denver Chair Frank Goldman, to present "President Truman, my
grandfather, and a bottle of bourbon". It’s an amazing story of how Frank’s grandfather, a former B'nai B'rith International president, helped influence President Truman to recognize the need for Israeli statehood. Frank has also been in the process of helping to create a young families group in Denver. Stay tuned for more information on our upcoming fall happy hour event in partnership with Jscreen!

For more information on BBYLN-Denver, email BBYLNDenver@bnaibrith.org​.

New York
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YLN-NY kicked off its spring calendar with a group attending several B’nai B’rith Award dinners, such as the one honoring the CEO of Toys“R”Us, Amalgamated Bank and the B’nai B’rith Diverse Minds Writing Challenge. On March 30, members participated in the second annual Project H.O.P.E. (Help Our People Everywhere) event, hosted at the B’nai B’rith office in New York. More than 40 people came to help assemble more than 100 Passover food packages for the Jewish elderly and needy. On April 28, the group co-hosted a Shabbat Dinner with MJE (Manhattan Jewish Experience) on the Upper East Side. The dinner celebrated the opening of baseball season and the official start of YLN’s spring season. On July 13, members met at B’nai B’rith’s New York office for Sushi Sake Summer Night. Attendees enjoyed kosher sushi and sake, and heard from participants of YLN’s trip to Japan and learned how they can go on future trips.

​For more information on BBYLN-NY contact email BBYLNNewYork@bnaibrith.org​.

​New Jersey
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​YLN-NJ kicked off its spring season with a joint Purim Party, co-hosted by Moishe House Montclair and JNFutures-NJ. Members from all three organizations dressed up in true Purim fashion and enjoyed eating hamantaschen. Three people won prizes for their costumes. Members were also invited to join the group in New York for Project H.O.P.E. (Help Our People Everywhere) on March 30. Recently, the group enjoyed attending Springfield Lodge’s annual Dinner Dance on June 14, which honored distinguished members of the community, including a Young Leadership Award recipient. 
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​Washington, D.C.
On June 4, YLN-DC hosted a Spring Brunch and Learn event with Einat Weiss, counselor for Political Affairs at the Israeli Embassy; Evelina Petrone, first secretary of the Political Section at the Embassy of Lithuania; and Jennifer L. Feldman, attorney & vice president of Membership for Alpha Epsilon Phi (AEPhi) sorority. National B’nai B’rith Young Leadership Network Chair Eduard Redensky moderated the discussion. The speakers discussed traditional gender role issues many women face in the workplace, as well as in charity work and their social lives, and what they can do to change it. Young leaders also enjoyed attending the B’nai B’rith Healthcare Award dinner the following week.   

 
Upcoming Events
South Florida
  • August 27
  • Join members for a Sundae Sunday: pool party and ice cream sundae bar! Check out the Facebook page for more info and upcoming events!
Facebook
Chicago
  • August 23
  • Save the date for the YLN Prague Trip Kickoff Event happy hour. Join our Facebook group for more info and event details!
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Facebook

 
YLN Abroad
​B’nai B’rith has members all over the world, and so does the Young Leadership Network. There are groups in Australia, Europe, Israel, Latin America, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. On April 28, B’nai B’rith Europe hosted more than 40 young professionals in Luxembourg for the weekend. It was the first young adults forum in many years, and 19 young leaders came from the United Kingdom, 15 were locals from Luxembourg, while 17 came from Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy and one from Russia.
 
Attendees enjoyed a Shabbat meal at Luxembourg’s Jewish Community Center, and heard from the chief rabbi of Luxembourg. They also heard from human rights activist and academic Gulia Clara Kessous. Throughout the weekend attendees enjoyed workshops with Benjamin Nagele, B’nai B’rith International director of EU Affairs and Jeremy Havardi, director of B’nai B’rith UK’s London Bureau of International Relations. Participants toured the city and learned about its Jewish history and went to a nightclub. Attendees also toured Vianden Castle and took a boat cruise on the Moselle.
 
B’nai B’rith also has a very active young professionals group in the United Kingdom. The group launched in July 2015 with a private boat cruise party on the River Thames. Every year they also have a Moroccan style picnic at the Klezmer in the Park Festival, monthly happy hour film screenings in partnership with the UK Jewish Film Festival, comedy evenings and Israeli concerts. The group also hosts an annual Valentine’s Day Wine and Dine Dinner with St. Johns Wood Young Jewish Network, in Golden Green, with a professional matchmaker. The group has also enjoyed breakfast briefings with diplomats from the London Bureau of International Relations, participating law firms and businesses. They have spoken with the high commissioner for the Republic of Austria, the Israeli ambassador, and the Latvian ambassador.
 
YLN members also enjoyed a Friday night dinner at Marble Arch, London, on July 14.
 
Their future events include a private viewing of the Amy Winehouse exhibit at the Jewish Museum in Camden (co-hosted by St. Johns Wood Young Professionals) on Sept. 6.  On Sept. 10, they will have their annual Moroccan style picnic at Klezmer in the Park, and another Friday night dinner is planned for November in Raleigh Close, with that Synagogue’s young professionals. 

 
Member Spotlight
Brett Ari Fischer
B’nai B’rith Lodge #2093
​Young Leadership Award Recipient
​Brett Ari Fischer is a top-producing real estate broker specializing in high-end transactions at Town Residential, a luxury real estate firm in Manhattan. His distinguished track record of success is based on an unmatched work ethic and highly effective communication skills. Well-versed in luxury sales and rentals throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens, Fischer is a certified negotiation expert and a certified buyer representative. He is the founder of the “AllPie Alzheimer's Challenge” which seeks to help raise awareness, and raise $18 million for the Alzheimer's Association. He has been working on this charity in cooperation with the B’nai B’rith Young Leadership Network. Fischer holds a B.A. from Drexel University and is a life member of the Alpha Epsilon Pi fraternity. This past June, B’nai B’rith Unit #2093, honored Brett with the Young Leadership Award for his creation of the AllPieAlzheimer’s Challenge and his participation with BBYLN-NY. 

 
YLN Travel
​Japan
​This past March, B’nai B’rith International sent 13 young leaders on a trip to Japan, sponsored by the Japanese government. This was the second trip the group has done to the country, as part of its friendship ties program called the Kakahashi Project. The participants were from all over the country, including Chicago, Denver, Detroit, Florida, New York, and Washington D.C. The trip was led by B’nai B’rith International Director of Legislative Affairs, Eric Fusfield, and B’nai B’rith International Digital Media Strategist, Taylor Schwink. Participants met with several members of Japan’s Foreign Ministry to discuss the Jewish population and learn more about Japan’s vast history and its relationship with Israel. Other highlights included a trip to Kobe, Hiroshima (where the group met with an atomic bomb survivor), the Holocaust museum and much more! 
Prague
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This fall, B’nai B’rith International will be hosting its annual Leadership Forum in Prague, as part of its 100th anniversary of the founding of B’nai B’rith Europe and the approaching 175th anniversary of B’nai B’rith International. The Young Leadership Network will be planning special events at the conference, starting on Oct. 27 through Nov. 1. Some of the highlights they hope to include are a Shabbat dinner at a nearby synagogue with local young leaders, tours of Prague Castle and the Jewish quarter, Wenceslas square, a river cruise on the Vltava river and so much more!

Click here for more information and to register!

For more information or questions, contact Danielle Ross at dross@bnaibrith.org. Hope to see you in Prague! 

 
New Membership Dues Available 
New membership dues are now available for the Young Leadership Network! Sign up today for preferred member rates at events, travel opportunities, briefings with senior leaders and more! 

For more details contact: dross@bnaibrith.org
2 Comments

​Fall/Winter 2016 BBYLN Newsletter

12/21/2016

0 Comments

 
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  • Hello Message From the Chair
  • Events Recap
  • B'nai B'rith Partners with AEPi​​
  • Hello Message From the Vice Chair
  • BBYLN Around the World
  • ​Membership Spotlight

Hello Message from the Chair of BBYLN National Committee
As the end of the calendar year approaches it’s important to take stock of all that has occurred and what can be anticipated from the upcoming year. This year, unfortunately, saw the continuation of anti-Semitism in Europe and in the U.S., particularly on college campuses. The 2016 election was the most divisive in history, and many areas suffered devastating natural disasters. As it has for the past 173 years, B’nai B’rith has been advocating for and helping the Jewish community through tough times, and 2016 was no exception. This past year, B’nai B’rith, and in particular the Young Leadership Network, had many worthwhile accomplishments in its various communities. From a Moroccan-themed bazaar in the United Kingdom, to a potluck Shabbat dinner in South Florida, to an Alzheimers awareness event in New York City, B’nai B’rith and the Young Leadership Network have been actively working to help make the world a better place.
 
In the upcoming year, YLN is excited to have a new community in Detroit develop and become a part of the B’nai B’rith family. In addition to this, Denver is also starting a group for young families. See below for more
information on the many active groups and how you can get involved in your area. As always, each community will plan exciting social events that raise awareness for various causes, all while giving back. If you’re feeling down as 2017 approaches and you want to make a difference, there are things you can do to usher in that change for the better. Join B’nai B’rith and the Young Leadership Network. Get involved in your Jewish community and the causes that are important to you. Wishing all the best to you and your loved ones in the upcoming calendar year.

Ed Redensky
Chair, National Young Leadership Network
B’nai B’rith International   
​

Hello Message from the Vice Chair of BBYLN National Committee
2016…where to begin. For me it was a year with many changes and lot of excitement. It included a trip to Japan, watching my Denver Broncos with the Super Bowl and moving to Chicago in time to experience a Chicago Cubs World Series Championship. I saw friends get married, engaged and have babies and got to celebrate my grandfather’s 90th birthday surrounded by family and friends.

While this year was full of many amazing and happy moments it has also been a year where we have seen an increase in anti-Semitism and hatred for people of all minorities across the country. As the craziness of this year and the election come to an end, I had many friends frustrated about the state of country and the outcome of the election, wondering what is there left to do. My biggest piece of advice for anyone, no matter who you voted for, or what your emotions are this year, is to get up and make a difference. The biggest change that we can make in the world is the one we start ourselves. This change can be as simple as picking up the phone and calling an old friend or relative just to talk and listen, or as complex as taking a trip to an impoverished area or country and volunteering your time. Community service has always been a huge passion of mine and the feeling you get after helping someone is amazing. So  this winter, remember, you can make a difference. Get up, volunteer, call a friend, and lend a helping hand. We can be the change that we want in the world.

Wishing everyone a happy, healthy and fulfilling 2017.

Rachel Silvestain
Vice Chair, National Young Leadership Network
B’nai B’rith International   
​

Events Recap
New York and New Jersey – In July, the event series Conversations Around the World continued with a presentation from Consul General of Bulgaria, Milen Lyutskanov. Young leaders from New Jersey and New York gathered at B’nai B’rith’s office in New York City to learn more about Bulgaria, its Jewish community and its relationship with Israel and the United States.
In October, young leaders teamed up with Brett Ari Fischer, The New York City Broker, for a Fall Happy Hour to raise awareness for Alzheimer’s research and the #AllPieAlz pie challenge. Young leaders enjoyed drinks and snacks while they learned more about Brett’s pie challenge.

On November 7, several young leaders were guests at B’nai B’rith International’s Distinguished Award Dinner, honoring the CEO of Toys R Us, David Brandon. The group is also hoping to plan a potluck Shabbat event in January and more Consulate programs.

​For more information, contact Danielle Ross at 
dross@bnaibrith.org.
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Washington, D.C. – In May, the event series Conversations Around the World continued with a presentation at the Embassy of the Netherlands. Young leaders gathered to hear from several diplomats from the Embassy about the Jewish community in the Netherlands, its relationship to Israel and the United States. 

​In September, BBYLN-DC helped host the B’nai B’rith Leadership Forum with special YLN activities throughout the conference. Young leaders participated in leadership meetings and enjoyed two dinners out and a Ghosts of Georgetown walking tour.
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Following the conference, the group held a Disaster Relief Fundraiser Soccer Game in October, which helped raise money for relief efforts in Ellicott City, Md., after that area was hit by devastating floods. Volunteer, Jason Langsner, helped get tickets donated as well as reached out to others for further donations. The fundraiser was very succesful. The group is planning to host a potluck Shabbat event and more Embassy programs in the next quarter.

​For more information, contact Danielle Ross at 
dross@bnaibrith.org.
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South Florida – This group co-hosted a Sushi, Sake, and Samurai themed Shabbat dinner with JConnect and B’nai Torah Congregation, in Boca Raton. Attendees enjoyed Japanese cuisine while learning about the YLN March trip to Japan and B’nai B’rith’s global advocacy efforts. In August, the group attended a networking happy hour in Ft. Lauderdale in conjunction with the B’nai B’rith Justice Unit, to raise awareness about the Heroes to Heroes Foundation. In September, the group held an inaugural mixer for its new 30s and 40s group at Monks Brewing Company, in Boca Raton. Attendees enjoyed drinks and food trucks, while learning more about this new group, which was created to help bring together young Jews.
In November, the same group hosted a Happy Hour Fundraiser to raise money for Disaster Relief and Hurricane Matthew victims. The event was held at American Social on Las Olas Blvd. in Ft. Lauderdale. They just had a Friendsgiveukah Potluck Shabbat dinner on Friday, December 9th, in Plantation. Young leaders enjoyed festive holiday dishes while meeting new friends. The group looks forward to another informal mixer at the end of January and Shabbat dinner sometime in February.

​For more information on this group, contact Danielle Ross at dross@bnaibrith.org.
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Chicago – On September 22, BBYLN-Chicago hosted a Forget the Honey Apple Cider mixer at Fountainhead in Ravenswood. Attendees enjoyed apple cider, food and alcohol and heard about the work B’nai B’rith provides around the world.

​​Members of YLN joined members of the Midwest Region at the Midwest Regional Meeting on November 6. The featured speakers were Aviv Ezra, consul general of Israel to the Midwest and Peter A. Perlman, B’nai B’rith chair of the executive. Topics included the current U.S.-Israel relationship and  the relationship, going forward, with the incoming administration.  Join BBYLN-Chicago at the ARK for a day of community service, followed by food and drinks out, on December 26!

​For more information, contact Cary at 
cwolovick@bnaibrith.org.
Detroit – This is a new group in formation, with a new YLN Chair, Samantha Lederman. She is planning an open house event in early January where young leaders can learn more about the organization, hear from current leaders and find out how to get involved.

​For more information, contact Danielle Ross at 
dross@bnaibrith.org
Denver – On October 19, BBYLN-Denver hosted a happy hour at Urban Roadhouse. Attendees celebrated the Jewish New Year and learned more about B’nai B’rith’s activities in Denver. The group also hosted “Harry Truman and Israel Brunch and Learn” on Sunday, December 4, at the Denver Jewish Community Center.

For more information on this group, contact Cary Wolovick at cwolovick@bnaibrith.org.
 
Los Angeles – More events to come! For more information or to get involved, contact Cary at cwolovick@bnaibrith.org.

BBYLN Around the World
B’nai B’rith Young Professionals in the UK hosted a comedy night on Wednesday, November 16th. They also hosted a Morrocan Bazaar Style Tea Party at Klezmer in the Park. Young professionals enjoyed the sounds of Klezmer music while enjoying Morrocan style treats in London’s Regents Park.

BBYLN Partners with Alpha Epsilon Pi (AEPi)
In August, B’nai B’rith staff and volunteers joined forces with AEPi at their annual convention, held this year in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. In addition to staffing a table with information on the organization, and how students (and alumni) can get more involved, B’nai B’rith hosted a community service program for the convention attendees. One group helped set up a picnic for JAFCO (Jewish Adoption and Foster Care). Another group helped clean up a park. BBYLN also co-hosted a happy hour event with the B’nai B’rith Justice Unit and AEPi alumni, at which they raised awareness of veterans issues and the organization Heroes to Heroes. Not only does AEPi support B’nai B’rith as one of its many partner agencies, but B’nai B’rith also provides students with their annual Walk to Remember Holocaust Program. B’nai B’rith looks forward to many more years working together with AEPi.
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Member Spotlight
Jessica Kreger – Jessica Kreger is proud to chair the B’nai B’rith Young Leadership Network of South Florida. Under her leadership, she’s gathered young professionals in South Florida for a hike, Shabbat dinners and a fundraiser for Hurricane Matthew victims. She has organized networking happy hours with other Jewish groups as well. Jessica is also a participant in the AJC Miami Shepard Broward Fellowship program for young professionals.
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Professionally, she is the senior manager of client documentation at TradeStation Technologies, where she leads the technical documentation team, publishing information that empowers active traders around the world. With over 17 years of experience in communications, Jessica has worked at Dell, the University of Miami, Carnegie Mellon University and Alcoa. She has spoken at national conferences for the Society for Technical Communication and MadCap Software. Jessica earned a M.A. in professional writing from Carnegie Mellon and a B.A. in English from Penn State. A member of the Romance Writers of America and the South Florida Romance Writers, she is thrilled that her first novel is scheduled for publication. You can read more about it at www.jessicarachelkreger.com.
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​Spring/Summer 2016 BBYLN Newsletter

6/17/2016

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  • Hello Message From the Chair
  • Events Recap
  • ​YLN Trip to Japan
  • ​Membership Spotlight
  • Hello Message From the Vice Chair
  • Spring and Summer 2016
  • ​We Want to Hear From You
  • ​Simchas

Hello Message from the Chair of BBYLN National Committee
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Hello Everyone,
 
I hope your spring/summer is off to a great start. I know mine is and it all started several months ago when I was invited to join B’nai B’rith on its young leadership mission to Japan. I didn’t know what to expect as I had never been there, but what I saw and learned was beyond my expectations. Here is my take on the trip and the amazing things I saw.
 
After a pretty long delay in Chicago, we finally landed in Japan. With me were several members of BBYLN and a few college students from Alpha Epsilon Pi (AEPi). We were meeting up with the rest of our group in Tokyo, who left from Newark, N.J. The entire group was made up of both young professionals (men and women) from all over the United States, as well as several college students from the AEPi fraternity. All of the young professionals were members of the B’nai B’rith Young Leadership Network. We were going to be part of a special program called the “KAKEHASHI project,” which is sponsored by the Foreign Ministry of Japan. It aims to build bridges between ordinary Japanese people and people from various countries. Our trip was specifically meant to introduce American Jews to the Japanese and vise versa. But if you read on you’ll find that the trip turned out to be an experience where individuals learned from each other and made friendships despite the language and custom barriers.
 
It was a phenomenal trip and I want to thank B’nai B’rith again for the opportunity. If you click here, or scroll down, you can read more of my thoughts on #BBYLNinJPN...

Ed Redensky
Chair, National Young Leadership Network
B’nai B’rith International   


​Hello Message from the Vice Chair of BBYLN National Committee
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I would like to take this month to introduce myself to everyone. My name is Rachel Silvestain and I am the new vice chair for the Young Leadership Network. I have been involved with B’nai B’rith for the last 4 years and am very excited to take on this new role to help the Young Leadership Network grow both in the U.S. and across the world.
 
Over the past few months, I have realized what a great impact B’nai B’rith and their networks can have on someone. I am a Denver native and, besides my time in college, have lived in the Denver area my whole life. Recently I had a change in jobs and will be packing up my life in Denver and heading to Chicago. Moving comes with all sorts of emotions, leaving the life I had known for many years and starting something new. I have to leave the friends I have made here and the family that still lives in the area. It has been one of the most exciting and nerve racking experiences of my life so far. What has made it a little easier is knowing that I will always have the support and network that B’nai B’rith provides.
 
I will be pulling up to Chicago next week and already have a wonderful event to attend there. Having been to a few of the young professional conferences over the past few years and having the amazing opportunity to travel to Japan in March, I have been able to meet friends from across the country. This network has given me the push I needed to step out of my comfort zone and experience a whole new city. Knowing not only that there will be people I know from B’nai B’rith but that there is a B’nai B’rith presence in my new city has made this move a lot easier and a lot more exciting. I can’t wait to see what amazing things Chicago has to offer and how I can help B’nai B’rith grow.

Rachel Silvestain
Vice Chair, National Young Leadership Network
B’nai B’rith International   


Events Recap
Jews & Brews – On February 18th, Jewish young professionals from BBYLN Chicago, Israel Bonds Young Investors, JNFuture and a Wider Bridge Chicago participated in Jews & Brews. Participants learned more about B’nai B’rith and its partners’ activities in Israel, had a beer or two and got a tour of the Revolution Brewery. Over 90 people attended. 
Project H.O.P.E. – On April 17th,  young professionals from New Jersey and  New York City came together for Project H.O.P.E., which stands for Help Our People Everywhere. BBYLN teamed up with Manhattan Jewish Experience (MJE) to host the event at the 5th Avenue Synagogue. This was a new Manhattan location, coordinated solely by young professionals. Over 40 people attended and 100 bags were made within an hour. Project H.O.P.E. was started in the 1960’s by lodge members in Brooklyn, who wanted to put together Passover food packages for the less fortunate in the Jewish community. It has grown much since its inception and now helps people all over the country. Participants learned about the project, B’nai B’rith and MJE. It was a huge success and everyone who came said they would do it again in the future!  We are grateful to the Queens Housing Foundation for funding the cost of the food packages
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Young Professionals Sunday Hike – On Sunday, January 9th, the South Florida group had its first event under its new chair, Jessica Kreger. She partnered with MOSAIC, an outdoor activities group in South Florida, for a two-hour hike. Participants enjoyed a peaceful hike through some of Florida’s most beautiful and diverse scenery. 
 
Dinner & Discussion – On February 4th, young leaders in Washington, D.C. met at B’nai B’rith’s headquarters to hear B’nai B’rith International Executive Vice President Dan Mariaschin discuss the current rise in anti-Semitism, the status of the Jewish community and how millennials can be more involved. ​​

Spring and Summer 2016
Chicago – On June 1st, the BBYLN-Chicago core group gathered for Sushi & Sake for Ecuador & Japan. Young leaders enjoyed a night of sushi and sake while helping raise funds for earthquake victims in both Ecuador and Japan. Attendees learned more about the B’nai B’rith Disaster Relief Fund and efforts to respond to natural disasters abroad. ​
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Denver – Every year, the members of B’nai B’rith in Colorado gather for one of everyone’s favorite events. This year’s event marks 20 years and will occur June 24-26. This wonderful weekend combines so much of what B’nai B’rith is about; Jewish history, community service and bonding with other Jews. It starts out with a camping trip for the young leadership where they will have the opportunity to hike, camp and volunteer at the local church serving dinner to the less fortunate. The weekend then continues with the cemetery cleanup on Sunday. This cemetery is the oldest Jewish cemetery west of the Mississippi and has been in around since the gold rush in the 1880s.
 
Over the last 20 years, with the help of B’nai B’rith and Temple Israel, the Jewish community has been able to maintain the cemetery as a beautiful a place where people are able to come and pay their respects. For more information about this amazing weekend, click here to visit the B’nai B’rith Denver page.

Florida – On June 3rd, BBYLN-South Florida and members of JConnect gathered for a Sushi, Sake and Samurai Shabbat. The groups enjoyed a taste of Japanese culture while welcoming Shabbat with other Jewish young professionals.
 
New York City –
  1. Members of BBYLN-NY gathered Sunday, June 5th for an afternoon at Barcade, from 3:00pm-5:00pm (right after the Israel Day Parade), enjoying vintage arcade games, beer and snacks, while learning more about B’nai B’rith. 
  2. Save the date: July 7th for Conversations Around the World, from 6:30-8:30 p.m., as we welcome the consul general of Bulgaria! Join young professionals from BBYLN-NY as we discuss the Bulgaria’s Jewish community, its relationship with Israel and the United States. More information to follow!
​Washington D.C. – On June 7th, members of the BBYLN-DC visited the Embassy of The Netherlands for the exciting Conversations Around the World series. Participants learned about Holland's Jewish community, its relationship with Israel and the United States.
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YLN Mission to Japan – More from Ed Redensky 
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We spent the first night just outside of Tokyo, which at that point seemed very familiar to someone who has never been to Japan before. It was just like our major cities in the U.S. For our first day, we had breakfast in the hotel, which had both cereals and rice and miso soup, which many of us could not imagine eating first thing in the morning. And then we were off to the Foreign Ministry for our trip orientation and to learn about Japanese-U.S. relations. We also learned about their relationship with Israel.
 
After spending most of the first day in Tokyo, we drove up north to a hotel in the city of Nikko. A few things make Nikko special. Not only is there an active volcano nearby, but it is also the home to the Tokugawa Shogunate Shrine. But what made visit to Nikko interesting is the hotel onset-hot bath. Men and women bathe separately, and after showering, you immerse in communal hot bath. After spending the night in Nikko, we headed to Otawara City, where we met our host family, with whom we would spend the next 2 days, including Shabbat.

MORE: YLN Ventures to Japan as Part of the Kakeshi Project
 
Spending time with my host family was the most surprising part of the trip. Here I was, half way around the world, and yet I felt like was back home visiting my parents. My host family was made up of 3 generations living under one roof of a home that is over 100 years old. The grandparents were my parent’s age, the parents were my age and their young kids were just like my niece and nephew. We spent most of our time around the kitchen table eating and talking, while the grandmother cooked and the rest of the time, we ate and ate! This is very similar to my own family visits when my brother and I visit my mom. Other group members shared similar experiences with the addition of care packages. 

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This was first time our hosts met someone of the Jewish faith, even though they had hosted other foreign visitors before. The two days with the host family flew by, and before we knew it, we were saying good bye. We had a large going away lunch party with all of the host families. As part of the ceremony, the Japanese hosts sung traditional songs of children leaving a village to go work in a large city, and our group sung the Hora and showed them traditional Jewish dances, which was another first for all of our hosts.
 
Driving back to Tokyo for our final 24 hours was bitter sweet because even though we were happy to be going home, we were leaving new friends. We did stop at the Jewish Community Center of Tokyo, which was very interesting. There is a small but thriving Jewish community in Tokyo. The next visit was with an elected member of Parliament. We enjoyed a frank and friendly discussion of Japanese foreign policy. This was followed by an invitation to dinner with members of the Japanese parliament, their staff and the former Japanese ambassador to Israel, who is a personal friend of B’nai B’rith International Executive Vice President Dan Mariaschin.
 
Everyone enjoyed their final night in Tokyo, and before we knew it, we were at the airport heading home, having learned a bit, having shared some more and, most of all, having enjoyed the experience of a lifetime.


We Want to Hear From You
Survey – Have an idea for an event or future program? Then now is your chance! Take our five-minute survey and let us know what kinds of programs and events you want to see! Click here to to take the survey!
 
Coming Soon! B’nai B’rith Young Families Network – BBYFN – Are you a young couple or have young children? Are you looking for a Jewish community group? Then the B’nai B’rith Young Families Network is the group for you! Let us know what kinds of activities you are interested in doing. Contact Rebecca Saltzman at rsaltzy@gmail.com.
 
B’nai B’rith UK celebrated Yom Ha'atzmaut with the Zionist Federation with an annual concert. This year's event featured Dana International, with a 'Eurovision' theme, and other singers (and dancers) singing Eurovision songs.
 
B’nai B’rith organized a block/group booking for B'nai B'rith Young Professionals and had a very large turnout.
 
The Young Professionals are invited to our Breakfast Briefing at the end of the June, with the ambassador of Austria. Stay tuned for more information!

Member Spotlight
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Adam Levoy – Adam Levoy is the chair of the BBYLN-NJ and an active member of the Young Leadership National Committee. Born in White Plains, N.Y., he moved to Scotch Plains in 1987. He went to the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, where he majored in English and minored in psychology. Shortly after graduating, he went to graduate school at Montclair State University, where he earned his masters degree in teaching. Adam now teaches English to high school students. He enjoys Shabbat dinners and other B’nai B’rith events. He recently participated in the B’nai B’rith young leadership trip to Japan. He is also this years Young Leadership Award Recipient from B’nai B’rith Lodge #2093 in Springfield, N.J.

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Daniel Citone – Daniel Citone of Rome, Italy, earned the 2015 Label A. Katz Young Leadership Award, named for the youngest person to achieve the office of international president of B’nai B’rith. Citone recently assumed the presidency of B’nai B’rith Europe—the youngest person ever to serve in that role.  Citone has been involved in B'nai B'rith since 1994, when he founded the youth lodge of Rome. In 2008, he organized the second B’nai B’rith Europe Young Adult Forum in Rome. He has taken part in B’nai B’rith International missions to the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva.
 
He has also served as a senior vice president of B’nai B’rith International, and was a member of the executive committee of B’nai B’rith Europe. Citone, along with other B’nai B’rith Europe leaders, took part in a solidarity trip in southern Israel during the 2014 Hamas terror incursion into Israel. He focuses his involvement on advocating for Israel, informing people about the Jewish state and on Judaism, as well as fighting anti-Semitism.
 
During the captivity of Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit, Citone worked diligently with the Shalit Committee, helping to organize an event outside the Coliseum in Rome, where the mayor of Rome conferred honorary citizenship on the captive Israeli soldier, installing his name on the wall of the town hall.


Simchas
The B’nai B’rith Young Leadership Network would like to wish Tali Schwartz a mazel tov on her marriage to Joe Nahamias!
 
The B’nai B’rith Young Leadership Network would like to wish a mazel tov to Adam Levoy on his Young Leadership Award from B’nai B’rith Lodge #2093 on June 15th.
 
Contact Danielle Ross (dross@bnaibrith.org) or Cary Wolovick (cwolovick@bnaibrith.org) at B’nai B’rith if you would like to add a special simcha wish!

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