It is not every day, that one is in the presence of heroes. Ball attendees of the RJCF 5th Annual Charity Ball had the opportunity that some people never have; being in the presence of true heroes. The event, which took place Sunday, October 18 in Lombardos in Randolph had over 400 attendees. The Russian Jewish community of Massachusetts and beyond gathered to thank a number of individuals who risked their lives towards the cause of freedom. The recipients of this year's Soviet Jewry Freedom Award were five of the Samoletchiki ,who in June of 1970 attempted hijack a plan in order to escape the Soviet Union and flee to their homeland, Israel. Anna Kaminetsky, a young woman who was a counselor in both the Children of Sderot Summer and Winter camps delivered a heartfelt speech introducing the samoletchiki who were present, Anatoli Altman, Israel Zalmanson, Wolf Zalmanson, Boris Penson. The men also accepted the award on behalf of samoletchik, Yuri Fedorov, who due to illness, was not present. The Soviet Jewry Freedom Award was also presented to two retired Colorado legislators, Representative Jerry Kopel and Senator Tillie Bishop who formed the "Committee to Free the Leningrad Three" and led a campaign in the Colorado legislature to write letters on behalf of the men to the Soviet authorities. Representative Kopel and Senator Bishop accepted their awards together with their wives, and expressed thanks to the legislature who had supported them and gotten involved with their mission. The atmosphere of the ball was one of overflowing gratitude to the heroes, who with their actions were able to begin the movement of freeing Soviet Jewry. Additionally, President of the Boston City Council, Michael Ross, then presented the Community Leadership Award to Dr. Naakh Vysoky for his commitment to political activism and involvement. A number of city councilors and politicians were there to support their respected friend. Soviet Jews resettlement volunteers Marilyn Goldberg, Sandie Bernstein, Tammy Goldman received Community Appreciation Certificate. Ball attendees watched a video report updating them on the past years accomplishments, the goals and tasks that to come, as well as highlighting the inherent tie between the children of Sderot and immigrants from the former Soviet Union. The Ball was a successful celebration of the gratitude and appreciation felt for those who fought on behalf of Soviet Jewry, as well as the understanding and knowledge that because we were fought for, we must fight and continue to help the Children of Sderot. All in all, a job well done.

Please watch the short video (slideshow) about RJCF and its causes.