December 14, 2011 THE VILLADOM TIMES II • Page 7 Area Bergen Volunteer Medical Initiative’s second anniversary benefit, the Culture of Caring celebration, was a spectacular evening that netted $230,000 for BVMI. The event was recently held at Seasons in Washington Township. “In today’s uncertain economic times, the generosity of our supporters is remarkable,” said Michael W. Azzara, chairman of the board of trustees. “It speaks to the genuine kindness of people to help local neighbors in need. We are very appreciative.” The mission of BVMI is to provide free primary medical care and, where possible, referrals to specialty care for working, lowincome Bergen County residents who have no health insurance. Care is provided by volunteer physicians, nurse practitioners, registered nurses and other healthcare professionals at the BVMI Healthcare Center, 241 Moore Street in Hackensack. At the recent celebration, presentations were made to nine honorees who support BVMI’s mission. Six physicians who volunteer their time and expertise to BVMI received the Community Leadership Award. The awards were presented by Pamela T. Miller, Esq., vice president of Medco Health Services and executive director of Medco Foundation, who began her remarks with the Hippocratic Oath: “….may I always act so as to preserve the finest tradition of my calling, and may I long experience the joy of healing those who seek my help.” The honorees included: Paul E. Berman, O.D. of Focus Eye Health & Vision Care. Since BVMI was launched, Dr. Berman has seen two patients every week for an eye examination and, when indicated, provided a free pair of glasses. Richard Goldweit, MD, cardiologist, Culture of Caring celebration nets $230,000 for BVMI Englewood Hospital and Medical Center, was recognized for saving the lives of at least two BMVI patients and for recruiting colleagues at EHMC to participate. Scott David Lippe, MD of Bergen Regional Medical Center was recognized for performing a number of colonoscopies and for treating several cases of Hepatitis C. Lisa Ann Miller, MD of Hackensack University Medical Center was honored for providing complete examinations and follow-through for six women every other week. John Poole, MD of Holy Name Medical Center was recognized for the diagnosis and treatment of inguinal and abdominal hernias. Mitchell J. Rubinoff, MD of The Valley Hospital, received the award for the diagnosis and treatment of very unusual problems requiring extensive treatment and follow-up over time. Two corporations were honored for invaluable contributions to BVMI. In presenting the awards, Joe Rutch, administrator of the Borough of Cliffside Park, stated that “philanthropic participation by the private sector is vital to BVMI.” The honorees included: Brach Eichler LLC, for the firm’s legal counsel which provided a strong foundation for BVMI and helped secure designation as a state-licensed ambulatory care facility for the BVMI Healthcare Center. Burt Eichler, Esq., 1933-2009, gave valued guidance, insight and advice pro bono which the firm continues. John Fanburg, managing member, accepted the award on behalf of the firm. Medco Health Solutions was recognized for working with BVMI to ensure access to affordable, high-quality prescription drugs for our patients and for support of health Michael W. Azzara, chair, Board of Trustees, Bergen Volunteer Medical Initiative, Inc., joins Pamel T. Miller, Esq., vice president, Medco Health Services and executive director, Medco Foundation, event co-chair; and Glen Stettin, Sr.. MD, vice president and chief medical officer, Medical Affairs, Medco Health Solutions, Inc. Dr. Stettin accepted the Corporate Spirit of Giving Award for Medco on behalf of David B. Snow, Jr., chairman and chief executive officer. education initiatives. Glen Stettin Sr., MD, vice president and chief medical officer of medical affairs at Medco, accepted the award on behalf of David B. Snow Jr., chairman and CEO. Bernard M. Weinstein, MPA, immediate past chair, BMI, was awarded a Special Tribute by Azzara on behalf of the board of trustees. Weinstein was recognized for his leadership and administrative skills in the development of the BVMI Healthcare Center. For more information about BVMI, or to ascertain eligibility for care, call (201) 342-2478. Visit online at bvmi.org. BVMI is a 501 (c)(3) organization.