AFRMC's Wall Street, High Tech and Life Sciences activists

On June 25, 2008, American Friends of Rabin Medical Center held the first event of a newly-formed group, Wall Street, High Tech and Life Sciences industries (WHALE), to benefit the new Emergency and Trauma Center at Rabin Medical Center. This networking event on Wall Street had the theme of "Wall Street Celebrates Israel at 60." About 125 guests enjoyed the evening. There was elegant organic Israeli cuisine, and an Israeli and jazz music ensemble. Israeli Consul General Asaf Shariv graced the event with his presence, speaking about Israel’s achievements after 60 years, followed by a fascinating presentation by Annaline Dinkelmann, a Wall Street historian, on the history of Jews on Wall Street.

Robert Hunter, Chairman of New York Downtown Hospital and a well-known financial services figure, spoke eloquently about the development of the Hospital, and noted the similarities with the Rabin Medical Center. A moving video, showcasing the work of the Emergency and Trauma Center at Rabin Medical Center, was shown to the assembled crowd. The evening was capped off by an appearance by New York Police Comissioner Raymond Kelly. Commerce Bank underwrote and sponsored this event, hosting this high-class evening in a landmark Commerce Bank on Wall Street. The high-powered event committee included individuals from investments banks, Life Sciences companies, from the Israeli trade mission and from various businesses and business forums in New York City and the Tri-State area.