(Courtesy of NJJBA) The North Jersey Jewish Business Alliance (NJJBA—http://www.njjba.com/), hosted its fourth-annual legislative and business luncheon at the Robert Treat Hotel in Newark, New Jersey.
After a bustling networking session, the program commenced with an introduction by Ezra Friedlander, master of ceremonies, as well as opening remarks by Miles Berger, the host and chairman of the board.
David Rosenberg, founder and executive director of the NJJBA, thanked and recognized the presence of the esteemed crowd in front of him. Rosenberg stated to the members of the Alliance, “We look forward working with you and our elected officials in strengthening economic development and business growth.”
Since its inception in 2015, Rosenberg has wanted to ensure that northern Jersey is recognized as an unparalleled place to live, work and visit for the Jewish individual. Celebrating its fourth annual legislative luncheon, the Alliance has worked hard to assist businesses in their decision-making process, and to connect them not only with other business executives, but also with distinguished and influential New Jersey officials and legislative leaders.
RWJ Barnabas Health was the recipient of the Life Saver’s Award. While accepting the award, Louis LaSalle, vice president for external affairs of RWJBarnabas Health, said, “The business community should be very proud of what the Alliance does, each and every one of you who are members keep staying strong and we will be here again to support you all along.” Introducing Mr. LaSalle was David Gross, president of Regency Nursing and Rehab Centers.
Joan Quigley, president and CEO of the North Hudson Community Action Corp., took the stage to introduce Lieutenant Governor of New Jersey Sheila Oliver. “There is no doubt that Newark has always been an economic bastion and hub for the Jewish Business Community,” Lt. Governor Oliver noted. She thanked the Alliance, and its host Miles Berger, for never losing hope on Newark, and spoke about the Murphy administration’s commitment to a stronger and fairer New Jersey
The Leadership in Excellence Award was presented to honoree Mayor Ras Baraka of Newark, who was introduced by Michael Sommer, executive vice president for development at Edison Properties. “I’m deeply honored to receive this award and recognition. Thank you, Mr. Rosenberg and the Alliance, for recognizing the great things we do for Newark,” said the mayor, who went on talking about Newark’s renaissance. “When people tell me they are from Newark, I tell them that they could be from Newark now,” he exclaimed.
Sam Baum, chief financial officer of Gel Spice Co, took the podium to introduce Assemblyman Gary Schaer. Assemblyman Schaer, who was the keynote speaker, explained, “Today’s lunch is a great opportunity for us, the Jewish community, to interact with our friends and neighbors and develop deeper connections with our government, local and statewide.”
The fourth consecutive legislative and business luncheon can only mean continued success and growth not only for the Alliance, but for the state of New Jersey as well. With top business executives and distinguished officials and legislative leaders working together, New Jersey will only experience continued success. For more information contact [email protected].
