Culture of Caring event nets $230,000 for BVMI 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.” The mission of BVMI is to provide free primary medical care and, where possible, referrals to specialty care for working, low-income Bergen County residents who have no health insurance. Care is provided by volunteer physicians, nurse practitioners, registered nurses and healthcare professionals at the BVMI Healthcare Center, 241 Moore Street in Hackensack. 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. 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, Englewood Hospital and Medical Center, was recognized for saving the lives of at least two BMVI patients and for recruiting colleagues. 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 over time. Two corporations were honored: 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 education initiatives. Glen Stettin Sr., MD, vice president and chief medical officer of medical affairs at Medco, accepted the award on behalf of CEO David B. Snow Jr. Page 8 THE VILLADOM TIMES III • December 14, 2011 County Executive Kathleen Donovan, left, with Norma Gindes, MSW, Executive Director, BVMI. The Shannon Rose, New Jersey’s authentic Irish Pub, has announced a new Shannon Rose is under construction at 1200 Route 17 North in Ramsey, and will open in midJanuary. The new establishment joins sister pubs in Clifton and Woodbridge. In addition to a full menu including American and Irishinspired fare, with standard pub offerings, The Shannon Rose will offer 20 beers on tap, popular imports, regional craft beers, and domestic favorites. The pub will feature live Irish and popular music by local artists and bands and guest DJs. Throughout the year, Shannon Rose Pub plans to expand 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. Call (201) 342-2478 or visit bvmi.org. BVMI is a 501 (c)(3) organization. many special events, including one of the largest Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations in New Jersey, are planned and will support fundraising events benefitting local charities. The pub is named after Shannon Doherty Portell, who grew up in Ridgewood. Portell is the daughter of owner Ed Doherty of Doherty Enterprises, Inc., headquartered in Allendale. While “Rose” is the traditional name of pubs in Ireland, it is also the surname of Doherty’s partner and owner of The Rose Group, Harry Rose. More information on the grand opening will be available in the coming weeks at www.theshannonrose.com. The Liberty Belles recently attended a real estate convention in Atlantic City. Mary Ellen O’Connell was honored with a plaque from the New Jersey Association of Realtors as the Realtor of the Year as voted by the 3,000 member RealSource Board of Realtors. Pictured: Marie Zaukas, Gina Diaz, Terri Tricoli, Mary Ellen O’Connell and Judy O’Brien. A ringing success