BY MOSHE HILL COMMUNITY CORNER DECEMBER 24 2024
The Ziegfeld Ballroom on West 54th Street in Midtown Manhattan was transformed into a beacon of solidarity and celebration as over 1,500 attendees gathered for the 30th anniversary gala dinner of the One Israel Fund. Simultaneously a celebration of what has been accomplished, a grim reminder of the present challenges, and a hopeful and inspirational proclamation of future endeavors, the gala dinner gave a strong message to all attendees that One Israel Fund is in this fight for the long haul.
Before the gala began, I had the chance to speak with Michael Rappaport, the evening’s MC, about his involvement with the One Israel Fund and his deepened activism in recent months. “I’m happy to be here, I’m honored to be here,” he began, sharing his enthusiasm for the organization and recalling a meaningful trip he took to Judea and Samaria. “I support them and everything they’re about,” he added, eager to bring humor, energy, and heart to the night. Reflecting on the aftermath of October 7, Rappaport spoke passionately about his heightened activism: “How could you not respond? How could you not be activated?” he said. “As a Jewish man, as a proud Zionist, it was never a question to be involved.” His voice carried both resolve and disbelief as he acknowledged the ongoing crisis: “I just wouldn’t imagine that we’d still be doing this. It’s absolutely crazy.”
Governor Mike Huckabee, who has been nominated by President-elect Trump to be the next US Ambassador to Israel, took pictures and conversed with every attendee. The Governor’s lifelong connection to Israel was evident in every word he shared. “I’ve been to Israel probably over 100 times over the past 52 years,” he said with a smile, recalling his first visit in 1973. “I fell in love with the place and the people.” Huckabee described the evening as “the culmination of a life of building relationships with the Israeli people and with my Jewish friends, whom I count among my dearest.” Since the Governor is unable to comment on the future regarding his confirmation process and his plans once he is, G-d willing, the next ambassador, we focused on his past. Immediately, his passion for Israel shone through, making it clear that his advocacy is deeply personal and enduring.
The same is with Curtis Sliwa, a New York icon and Guardian Angels founder, who spoke about his presence at the event and his connection to the honorees. “I’m here for my colleague, Sid Rosenberg, and his family,” Sliwa said, speaking passionately about Rosenberg’s transformation following the October 7 attacks. “Before October 7, he never wanted to be ‘Birthright Sid,’” Sliwa quipped, referencing Rosenberg’s prior detachment from his Jewish identity. “October 7 happened, and by October 8, I dubbed him King David the Second.” Sliwa praised Rosenberg’s newfound activism, including his bold use of his radio platform to amplify Jewish concerns and his fearless support for Israel. “He’s called out Jews who are fugazis (Italian for fake or damaged beyond repair), like Schumer,” Sliwa added, noting Rosenberg’s outspoken advocacy in both media and at rallies. Sliwa’s admiration for Rosenberg’s transformation and dedication was palpable: “He’s making a difference, and that’s why I’m here to honor him.”
A key part of that newfound attitude was Yehudah Honickman, who organized trips for Sid, Michael Rappaport, and others. He had a moment to reflect on his role in Sid Rosenberg’s transformative trip to Israel. “It was an amazing experience for me to put that together,” he said, adding that the journey was nothing short of life-changing for Rosenberg. “Sid’s growth from his love of sports to becoming a staunch advocate for Israel has been incredible to witness.” Honickman emphasized that the turning point for Rosenberg began on October 7 and was further solidified during his first visit to the land. “To see him being honored tonight with the Shield of Israel Award is truly special,” Honickman shared, looking around the grand ballroom. “It’s a testament to his journey and his newfound passion for Israel.”
Radio host Sid Rosenberg has truly earned the honor bestowed upon him by the One Israel Fund for his dedication to Israel over the past months. “I’ve been to Israel twice since October 7, 2023, and both trips were completely sponsored by Scott Feltman and the One Israel Fund,” Rosenberg shared, highlighting his strong connection to the organization. He spoke passionately about his time in Judea and Samaria, saying, “One of our main objectives with the organization is to one day have sovereignty there. Very, very important.” Recounting a memorable moment, he added, “This Yom Kippur, I spent the day in shul in Efrat before meeting Bibi Netanyahu that night in Jerusalem.” Rosenberg expressed deep gratitude and love for the experience, emphasizing how much his trips have solidified his commitment to Israel and its people.
The Gala itself began with solemnity and pride, marked by the singing of Hatikvah and the Star-Spangled Banner, and a stirring performance by Cantor Netanel Hershtik of West Hampton. Master of Ceremonies Michael Rappaport set the tone, addressing the global turmoil of the past year, including the ongoing plight of over 100 hostages in Gaza, seven of whom are Americans. His words – “We must continue to fight, push, pray, and stick together” – reverberated throughout the ballroom.
Jackie Herman, the Fund’s president since 2021, outlined the organization’s ambitious vision: a future map of Israel with no green lines, only a unified nation. Governor Mike Huckabee took the stage with his heartfelt reflections on his 52-year journey of connection to the land and its people. Huckabee, a self-proclaimed believer in the Bible’s promises to Israel, captivated the audience with anecdotes about his visits to Yad Vashem and Shiloh. His reminder that the battle for Israel transcends politics and represents a “vertical battle between heaven and hell” struck a chord with the deeply invested audience.
Dr. Yechiel Leiter, one of the Fund’s founders, was honored with reverence as a cornerstone of the organization, which has grown from serving 10,000 Jews in Judea and Samaria to nearly 600,000 today. Jay Kestenbaum, another founding member, spoke mournfully about Dr. Leiter’s son, IDF Major Moshe Yedidyah Leiter, who was killed in North Gaza in November 2023. Kestenbaum told the story about how a six-year-old Moshe defiantly and bravely did not flinch or cower when rocks were thrown at a car he was in while driving in Chevron, claiming that you can show no fear to Palestinians who want to kill Jews.
Dr. Leiter was not available to receive his award due to his confirmation hearings as the next Israeli Ambassador to the US. His poignant absence only added weight to his and his family’s legacy.
Scot Feltman, the Fund’s Executive Vice President, highlighted the critical role the organization has played in bolstering Israel’s security and quality of life. “Tonight, Judea and Samaria goes mainstream,” he declared, emphasizing the vital work done to protect Jewish communities from daily terrorist threats.
A significant announcement came from the Nanasi family, who shared their vision of the Nanasi Medical Center in Shaar Binyamin. Slated to open in December 2026, this state-of-the-art facility is set to become Jerusalem’s fourth hospital – a decade-long dream finally realized.
The evening also celebrated remarkable individuals with awards that honored their contributions. Carol Greenwald received the inaugural Woman of Valor award, while Danielle and Sid Rosenberg were recognized with the Maginei Yisrael Award. Sid shared how his trip to Israel after October 7 transformed his connection to Judaism and his advocacy for Judea and Samaria. His moving words, “If you can’t find your heart in Israel, good luck finding it anywhere,” left a lasting impression.
During a thought-provoking discussion between Michael Rappaport and Nathaniel Buzolic, affectionately known as Nate Buzz, Nate opened up about his journey from growing up in a majority-Muslim area of Sydney, Australia, to becoming an outspoken advocate for Israel. “The first time I came to Israel, I learned the difference between what I was told and what was on the ground,” he remarked. On October 7, Nate was at home in Georgia but reflected on a visit six months prior to the Gaza border, a place he recognized as fraught with danger. After the attack, he quickly turned to social media, determined to counter what he described as the Palestinians’ “victimhood narrative.”
Nate’s passion for Israel was palpable: “Every time you walk past young people in Israel, just know that you are walking past heroes,” he said. As a Christian leading tours to Israel, he proudly shared, “I’m taking 50 Christians in and leaving with 50 Zionists.” Despite not being Jewish, Nate expressed a deep familial connection to Israelis, declaring, “I consider Israelis family, and I consider Israel my home.” His steadfast support for Israel was complemented by Rappaport’s lament on Hollywood’s lack of vocal solidarity, especially during an industry known for championing various causes. Both voices underscored the urgency of unified advocacy and the enduring spirit of the Israeli people.
Rappaport closed the evening with a sense of pride, declaring how honored he was to stand among such a committed group of Zionists. It was a night of profound connection, a celebration of shared values, and a reaffirmation of the unbreakable bond between Israel and its supporters.
The 30th-anniversary gala of the One Israel Fund was more than an event; it was a testament to the enduring spirit of Zionism and the shared resolve to ensure Israel’s future remains secure and vibrant. It was a night to remember, and for the attendees, a call to action to continue this vital work for decades to come.
