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From left to right: Israel Bonds Philadelphia Real Estate Division Chairs Rob Odell, David Spoont, Anna Boni, Steve Gartner and Bruce Goodman at the podium. Photo credit: Jordan Cassway Photography<\/p>\n From left to right: Israel Bonds Philadelphia Real Estate Division Chairs Rob Odell, David Spoont, Anna Boni, Steve Gartner and Bruce Goodman at the podium. Photo credit: Jordan Cassway Photography<\/p>\n
Israel Bonds Philadelphia\u2019s annual Real Estate Power Lunch generated $45 million in investments for the Jewish state\u2019s economy \u2014 money that will promote \u201clong-term economic resilience,\u201d according to Ari Sirner, the executive director of Israel Bonds Pennsylvania Region.<\/p>\n
Over 250 people attended the Oct. 22 event at Philadelphia\u2019s Bellevue Hotel, where the organization honored Rich Gottlieb, the president and chief operating officer of Keystone Development and Investment, for his years of leadership and commitment to Israel Bonds.<\/p>\n
\u201cHis professional excellence, dedication to community, and unwavering support for the values that unite us exemplify the qualities of a true leader \u2014 one who not only drives success in business but also uses his influence to make a meaningful impact on the world,\u201d Sirner wrote to Philadelphia Jewish Exponent. \u201cMr. Gottlieb\u2019s commitment to Israel\u2019s prosperity and security serves as an inspiration to all who share in the mission of building a stronger, more vibrant future for the Jewish people and the global community.\u201d<\/p>\n
He added that Gottlieb is an involved member of the local Jewish community on top of his real estate business, serving on the boards of the Jewish National Fund and Cheder Chabad of Philadelphia.<\/p>\n
The organization said that the luncheon brought together leaders from the business and real estate industries who are working toward strengthening Israel through \u201ceconomic solidarity,\u201d<\/p>\n
The money raised at the event is in the form of general obligation bonds. Sirner explained that the funding goes wherever it\u2019s needed the most.<\/p>\n
General obligation bonds are backed by a government\u2019s credit and taxing ability to assure repayment on the bond and the interest it accrues over time.<\/p>\n
Israel\u2019s Accountant General Yali Rothenberg served as the keynote speaker for the event.<\/p>\n
\u201cIsrael\u2019s economy is strong and growing, and investors around the world recognize that,\u201d Rothenberg said. \u201cEvery investment is an expression of confidence in Israel\u2019s economy, its growth and its ability to continue leading forward \u2014 even in challenging times.\u201d<\/p>\n
Sirner said the $45 million investment total is in line with typical totals from the annual event and is significant because of the large amount of money that will be invested in Israel.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt reflects the enduring generosity and commitment of the community, while also standing out as a powerful demonstration of continued confidence in Israel\u2019s future,\u201d he said.
He added that the attendance marked one of the event\u2019s highest-ever turnouts, which he credited to the work of Gottlieb and several other contributors.<\/p>\n
The Development Corporation for Israel, generally referred to as Israel Bonds, has worked for more than seven decades to strengthen Israel\u2019s economy, raising some $55 billion, including more than $5.7 billion since the attacks of Oct. 7, 2023. But despite that gargantuan figure, Sirner said, \u201cour mission is far from over.\u201d<\/p>\n
The organization said the luncheon showcased the Philadelphia community\u2019s dedication to bolstering and shaping Israel\u2019s future.<\/p>\n
\u201cIsrael Bonds help fuel the nation\u2019s continued development and success. These funds bolster Israel\u2019s ability to invest in critical areas that contribute to a strong and self-sustaining economy. Beyond their economic impact, Israel Bonds also represent a meaningful connection between investors and the Jewish state \u2014 an expression of confidence in Israel\u2019s resilience, growth, and future prosperity,\u201d Sirner said.<\/p>\n