^{B’nai Israel Congregation and Jewish National Fund-USA Remember 9/11}

Rockville, MD: September 13, 2024 — In a heartfelt ceremony, B’nai Israel Congregation and Jewish National Fund-USA marked the 23rd anniversary of 9/11 by honoring the synagogue’s dedicated security team. The event was part of a nationwide initiative by Jewish National Fund-USA to recognize first responders, veterans, and uniformed service members while underscoring the shared values embraced by Israel and the United States.

Jewish National Fund-USA Mid-Atlantic Board President, Chet Stein, highlighted the significance of the relationship between the congregation and its security team, which has been especially meaningful since 9/11. “They have been thanked many times, but I believe this was the first formal recognition event. I know our security guards were touched and appreciative of being formally recognized,” Stein remarked. “The congregants who attended were very pleased with the recognition, knowing how hard they work on our behalf. It is definitely a worthwhile program that is beneficial to the community.”

Caption: (L-R) Chet Sten (JNF-USA President of Mid-Atlantic Board), Rabbi Michael Safra (B’nai Israel Senior Rabbi and JNF-USA Rabbi for Israel), Richard Conway (Security Guard), and Larry Fishbein (JNF-USA Greater Washington Board Member)

The ceremony was attended by local community members and synagogue leaders, who expressed their gratitude to the security team for their ongoing commitment to safeguarding the congregation.

The event reflected the broader mission of Jewish National Fund-USA to honor those who serve and protect, both in Israel and the United States, through community-focused initiatives.

For more information, contact Israel Programs Admissions Director, Stephanie Aseraph at SAseraph@jnf.org or call 301.589.8565 x480.

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Media Contact:

Stefan Oberman

212.879.9305 x222

About Jewish National Fund-USA

Jewish National Fund-USA builds a strong, vibrant future for the land and people of Israel through bold initiatives and Zionist education. As a leading philanthropic movement, the organization supports critical environmental and nation-building activities in Israel’s north and south as it develops new communities in the Negev and Galilee, connects the next generation to Israel, and creates infrastructure and programs that support ecology, people with disabilities, and heritage site preservation, all while running a fully accredited study abroad experience through its Alexander Muss High School in Israel. Learn more at jnf.org.