Over these four years, we've watched our children and grandchildren grow and flourish, serving in IDF uniforms and taking risks with their lives. We've seen our beloved Israel torn by power struggles from within and a terrible war from without – yet at the moment of truth, uniting, fighting for what's best, and winning together. We've witnessed the US mired in moral confusion just when the people of Israel needed a display of strong American leadership – and yet now restoring its former glory, with President Donald Trump's reelection.

Sheldon was so unique, so dynamic, instinctive and wise, overflowing with affection yet tough – all at once and simultaneously. I see ripples of his memory everywhere: in Adam's broad and determined shoulders as he lifts another racing trophy; in Matan's wise and humane business approach; in Yasmin and Sivan's independent spirit as they raise their children; in the smiles of our tens of thousands of employees, and in all those who benefited from our charitable initiatives.

Sheldon's eternal impression

It isn't coincidental that the Olympics occur every four years as nations compete. It takes four years to complete a bachelor's degree. Terms in office – including that of the US president, leader of the free world – last four years.

I had the honor of sitting just yards away from President Trump when he was sworn in again last week. At the previous inauguration in 2017, I attended with Sheldon. This time I was alone. But even there, my husband left an eternal impression: with the loyalty and love he showered on Trump when many turned their backs – something the president always appreciated.

Now the American people and the entire world have gained four more years of the best president of all time. Let's ensure they have value. We must not waste time on foolish quarrels among ourselves, within our people or our political camp – when we face so many real enemies who have demonstrated the true danger they pose.

The post No to infighting: Sheldon Adelson's legacy lives on appeared first on www.israelhayom.com.

A moving memorial ceremony for Sheldon Adelson took place Tuesday at the Mount of Olives cemetery in Jerusalem, commemorating four years since the passing of one of the Jewish people's greatest benefactors and a passionate supporter of Israel, who founded Israel Hayom with his wife Dr. Miriam Adelson.

The memorial drew his widow Dr. Miriam Adelson and their children, alongside relatives, admirers, friends, and close associates. The touching ceremony featured IDF Chief Cantor Shai Abramson performing the "El Malei Rachamim" prayer, while vocalist Marina Feingold rendered Queen's "Love of My Life."

Speaking with deep emotion, Dr. Miriam Adelson reflected on her enduring loss: "Sheldon was so unique, so dynamic, instinctive and wise, overflowing with affection yet tough. His absence pierces my heart like a dagger. The example he set for me in his life continues to provide guidance and healing to my life."

Dr. Adelson continued by acknowledging "our friends, near and far, who still raise a glass to life in Sheldon's precious memory," and "all those who will forever be guided by the Adelson doctrine, which means kindness of heart and respect for every person."

By his graveside, Yasmin Lukatz shared heartfelt remembrances. "It's hard to believe four years have passed since we parted from you," she said with palpable longing, "but what's amazing is how present you still are in our lives. You taught us how to embrace life fully, to live and enjoy. But beyond that, you taught us something greater than love of life – you taught us the power of giving and sharing with others.

"Whether it was your generosity toward the Jewish people, or the many other ways you influenced the lives of those around you – everyone was influenced by you. You are the inspiration for all of us to try to make the world a better place.

"We miss you every day, but we also celebrate you every day – in laughter, in stories, in the traditions you left us, all reminders of what it means to laugh, to love and to live a life with purpose."

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It has been difficult for the sports world in Israel to remain untouched by the tragedy of Oct. 7. Every game, stadium, and broadcast has inevitably served as a solemn memorial for those who, mere moments ago, were fans in the stands but are now gone forever. Celebrations are muted, as the realm of sports refuses to be contained, bleeding into the solemnity of remembrance.

Last week, as Hapoel Jerusalem celebrated winning the Israeli State Cup in basketball, the players invited 18-year-old Ofir Engel, released by Hamas in November after being taken hostage on Oct. 7, to join them in lifting the trophy. The entire match was dedicated to Hersh Goldberg-Polin, who remains a hostage of Hamas, with thousands of Hapoel's red-clad fans donning shirts bearing his image.

"In the context of life itself since Oct. 7, sports is meaningless. But it's only when you encounter the fans, families, and people across the country that you suddenly understand sports' profound power and importance. And that is why it must continue," says Matan Adelson, at 25 the youngest owner of a professional sports team in Israel.

Adelson, speaking publicly for the first time since announcing his purchase of Hapoel Jerusalem a year ago, aspires to reshape both Israeli and European basketball through the club, which he aims to build into an empire.

The scion of the Adelson family has kept an extremely low profile over the past year, with little in the public record about the youngest son of Dr. Miriam Adelson and the late Sheldon Adelson (full disclose: Dr. Adelson is the publisher of Israel Hayom). Occasionally, he asserted his presence in the sports arena through displays of assertiveness, such as Twitter battles with sporting rivals.

Now, Adelson openly discusses the turbulent year since acquiring the team, candidly acknowledging missteps while sharing that he managed to shed 66 pounds over two years. A Stanford graduate, he expresses grave concerns over rising campus antisemitism. Above all, Adelson is driven to prove Hapoel Jerusalem is not a fleeting fancy but a profound investment by revealing his vision for the team's future.

Parental guidance

Adelson, born in 1999 in Los Angeles, spent the majority of his formative years in Las Vegas, two years younger than his brother Adam, a successful race car driver in the US, and two decades younger than his elder sisters, Sivan and Yasmin. From infancy, he was immersed in the family's business and philanthropic environment, describing the Jewish community of the West Coast as "a bubble: everyone around me was Jewish. We knew that there were others in the world, but our immediate surroundings were entirely Jewish, and it was paramount to my mom that we were raised with Israeli values. Consequently, I was in the Israeli Scouts, and she conversed with me in Hebrew –  and, of course, we visited Israel frequently."

At a young age, Adelson professes, he developed a profound affinity for basketball. "During my childhood, family friends kindled my love for the Los Angeles Lakers, and one day I approached my father, declaring my aspiration to become the owner of the Lakers when I grew up. He elucidated that the Lakers are already an established brand, and with or without me, they will consistently maintain their elite status. Therefore, it would be more prudent for me to acquire a less well-off brand and elevate it to the pinnacle – in that process, I would also gain invaluable knowledge."

Q: Now that you manage a substantial business yourself, what advice from your parents has aided you in leading the team?

"My late father consistently emphasized that a thriving business hinges on the individuals you assemble and surround yourself with. He underscored the importance of selecting individuals with superior intellect, thereby providing a valuable resource for consultation. However, after assembling a capable team, it is equally crucial to take the necessary measures to retain them. My father always maintained that if they demonstrate loyalty to you, you have an obligation to reciprocate that loyalty."

Adelson chose to illustrate his point with an anecdote from the coronavirus period.

VIP Passenger in the car today. Buckle Up! pic.twitter.com/ksk3elc98r

— Matan Adelson (@MatanAdelson) May 18, 2024

"The tourism industry worldwide experienced a catastrophic collapse, and numerous individuals in Las Vegas resorted to laying off their employees. However, my father did not terminate a single worker or reduce anyone's salary. This was one of the most significant lessons I learned from him. He said that our family possesses resources that others do not, and therefore, we are responsible for caring for them, particularly if they work so hard."

Adelson revealed that he first truly encountered antisemitism while studying Economics at Stanford. 

"It's not that I was unaware of the existence of antisemites in the world, as that was evident to me, but there I confronted it directly. It manifested in waves. During my first year, there was a significant presence of antisemitism, and one could discern the profound impact of BDS [Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions Movement] and their efforts on the younger generation, as well as the ignorance pervasive among young Americans."

In the second year, he recounted, the hostility subsided, "but I had a very close friend in college, one of whose friends was Palestinian. I witnessed how she inundated her with blatantly false information. So if you inquire about the current situation on campuses in the US – I'm truly not surprised, as we foresaw this development.

"The protesters on campuses, of course, attempt to justify their actions as anti-Zionist rather than antisemitic. However, anyone with a modicum of sense recognizes that there is no distinction; it's merely their ignorance that leads them to perceive it that way."

After completing his studies, Adelson joined investment firms, although, if he could "turn back time, I would have pursued computer science. Upon finishing my degree, I questioned what my profession was and what the university had equipped me with for the rest of my life. Truthfully, I cannot provide a satisfactory answer. I do not feel that Stanford gave me the necessary tools to embark on a professional career."

"The Euroleague? It's another milestone on the journey."

We convened in the offices of Hapoel Jerusalem in Givat Ram, Jerusalem. Adelson's ambitions soar high, and the team's trophy case is becoming increasingly crowded. Adelson was accompanied by a documentary film crew, which may potentially result in another sports documentary in the genre currently inundating streaming platforms.

As mentioned, this was his first major interview, and he appeared apprehensive yet understanding, as someone from a family for whom the spotlight is not unfamiliar, that this is part of the game.

Q: How would you summarize your first year at Hapoel Jerusalem?

"It has been a year of ups and downs, with both positive and challenging moments. I am still learning about the sport here and discovering many areas that need improvement. Next week, the final part of the season begins with the playoff games, and we are yet to know the exact day or time of our matches. This lack of organization perplexes me; it's difficult to foster a strong sports culture or a competitive basketball league without proper scheduling."

Q: This is a characteristic of Israeli sports and particularly Israeli basketball.

"This is an issue that needs addressing. There are basketball arenas in the Premier League that are not up to standard, and the league's marketing efforts are insufficient. There is also a lack of private team ownership, with too many teams being controlled by mayors. When a mayor changes, a team can suddenly be disbanded. This is not a sustainable way to achieve long-term success.

"I acknowledge that there is criticism of me as well, and I make mistakes. However, the key is to learn from them and implement changes that will benefit all of Israeli basketball."

Q: Some issues can't be fixed, such as Maccabi Tel Aviv's long-standing dominance in basketball.

"I am aware of the history and the fact that the [Recanati family,] owners of Maccabi Tel Aviv also own Israel's main sports channel, which I find peculiar. Ofer Yannay, [owner of the Hapoel Tel Aviv basketball team,] claims that Maccabi Tel Aviv's advantage was gained through unkosher means. While I do not know whether this is true, it is clear that Maccabi Tel Aviv resists competition." 

"There wasn't a specific moment; it was a process. We were approached by every major basketball league in the world with offers. We even received an offer from a prominent soccer club in the Premier League. But I asked myself – what connection do I have to London? What connection do I have to football? What bond do I have with that country?

Q: Maccabi's management has also prevented Hapoel Jerusalem from entering the Euroleague, the premier basketball league in Europe, for years.

"I have met with the Federman and Recanati families, [who co-own Maccabi Tel Aviv,] but not with Shimon Mizrahi, [their chairman.] I explained the significance of having two Israeli teams in the Euroleague, not only for the sport but also for Israel. It would even benefit Maccabi's interests. They disagreed and opposed our position. However, I'm not looking for Maccabi's permission. Ultimately, I will do what is right for Hapoel Jerusalem. Their opposition only strengthens my resolve."

"For me, the Euroleague represents another significant milestone in our journey. If this league does not want us, they will miss out on the potential and power of Hapoel Jerusalem, and another league will benefit from our participation. Professionally, we made a strategic error last year by staying in FIBA's basketball league, [the Euroleague's competitor,] but financially, it was beneficial. We saved a substantial amount by not hosting games in Israel and having fewer matches. As I said, I have made mistakes and will continue to do so as we progress."

Q: One of Maccabi Tel Aviv's long-standing strategies in basketball has been their ability to acquire the best players from rival teams. There are rumors that you are considering their coach, Oded Kattash, for next year.

"Oded Kattash is just one of our options. I have not yet had a meeting with him. We have many prominent names on our list, both for the coaching position and for players. Acquiring Maccabi Tel Aviv's players or coaches would not only strengthen us but also weaken our rivals, offering a dual advantage.

"Maccabi is unaccustomed to competition for players and coaches, but the landscape of Israeli basketball is evolving. Hapoel Jerusalem and Hapoel Tel Aviv are making significant investments, and we will continue to do so in the coming summer. From what I understand, Maccabi's owners have not invested heavily in the club for quite some time. I can assure them that they face challenges ahead of the next season."

"We'll impact European basketball as well"

Many were surprised when Adelson decided to purchase an Israeli basketball team, considering the relatively small market it operates in. Another branch of the family chose to acquire the NBA's Dallas Mavericks, a team currently competing in the Western Conference Finals and harboring championship aspirations under its new ownership.

Q: With all the options available to you, why choose an Israeli basketball team? Do you recall the moment you decided on this?

"There wasn't a specific moment; it was a process. We were approached by every major basketball league in the world with offers. We even received an offer from a prominent soccer club in the Premier League. But I asked myself – what connection do I have to London? What connection do I have to football? What bond do I have with that country?

"I wouldn't have bought an NBA team; I have no national sentiment for that. As an Israeli and a Jew, I'm pleased that my family [sister Sivan and brother-in-law Patrick Dumont] bought a team in the NBA, but for me, buying a sports team was a Zionist act."

"I wouldn't have bought an NBA team; I have no national sentiment for that. As an Israeli and a Jew, I'm pleased that my family [sister Sivan and brother-in-law Patrick Dumont] bought a team in the NBA, but for me, buying a sports team was a Zionist act."

Q: Do you consult with the family in Dallas? After all, there is a significant difference between the Pais Arena (where Hapoel Jerusalem plays) in Jerusalem and the standards of the NBA.

"There is no cooperation between us, and there won't be. Perhaps in the future, we can organize an exhibition game between Hapoel Jerusalem and Dallas, but for now, our connection is limited to attending some of their games. Of course, if we have questions or need ideas, it's reassuring to know we have someone in the family to consult with, as they are part of one of the best, most experienced, and largest clubs in the world.

"But I don't want Hapoel Jerusalem fans to have unrealistic expectations: our focus is on becoming the best team in Israel and then making an impact in European basketball. If we can occasionally play against American teams, why not?"

Q: Since you took the position, the imagination of every basketball fan in Israel has been thrilled, and everyone is eager to see which superstars will join Hapoel Jerusalem.

"When we arrived, the previous owner, Eyal Chomsky, said we had a great coach [Aleksandar Džikić, who left Israel due to the war] and ensuring that everything fits his system. Even if I had brought Steph Curry here, he wouldn't have played if he didn't fit into the coach's system. I agree that not every player is suitable for Hapoel Jerusalem, and even if LeBron James played for us, it might not work.

"But our intention for next year, and in general, is to bring in big names. We understand this will require a significant financial investment. However, it will ensure that our arena is filled with enthusiastic fans."

Adelson expressed a deep connection to the passion and energy of European basketball fans compared to the more subdued and politically correct atmosphere of American fans.

"My girlfriend and I sometimes attend NBA games, and she finds them boring. You can't compare the Hapoel Jerusalem crowd and European fans in general to those in the US. Imagine an arena in Jerusalem full of fans who never stop singing and cheering. It's the fans who make you want to stay, and you don't find fans like that in the US."

Q: What do the players think of Jerusalem?

"Every player who comes here needs to understand that they are going to live in Jerusalem and grasp the significance of representing a team that plays in this city, with all that it entails."

When Adelson walked around the Mahane Yehuda market, where he also posed for photographs for this article, it was clear that he was already well-known. Moshe Lion, the mayor, also took the time to meet with the owner after the victory. Adelson admitted that one of his biggest challenges is related to the broader challenges facing Jerusalem.

"It's no secret that many young Jerusalemites who support the team eventually leave the city, and their connection to the team changes. They don't attend all our home games, and we are constantly brainstorming how to keep them engaged, buying season tickets, and supporting us even when they no longer live in the city. From a marketing perspective, this is an issue that hasn't been addressed in the past.

"And I'll tell you something else – we currently have die-hard fans who never stop cheering, even when we're losing. I know that when we win, more people come, but I want to avoid having a 'concert crowd' that only shows up for the victories. Instead, I want a crowd that won't stop cheering, like our dedicated core of fans who jump and cheer behind the basket every game."

"And I'll tell you something else – today we have diehard fans who don't stop cheering even when we're losing. I know that more fans show up when there are wins, but I want it to not be a concert crowd like some of the teams have, who only join for the wins, but rather a crowd that won't stop cheering – like that large core that jumps regularly behind the basket."

You're certainly familiar with the ownership history of Hapoel Jerusalem. Arcadi Gaydamak, Guma Aguiar, Uri Alon. They all tried and eventually left. "I can't say how many years I'll stay in Jerusalem – because it's not interesting. My goals right now are that I won't need to work 25 hours a day around the team. I have no time to do anything else, and I already want to know that even if I'm in the US, things here are running as they should. We're not there yet. If someone thinks the question of whether Jerusalem will make the Euroleague or not will affect my decision to stay here – they are very mistaken.

"I have many goals for Hapoel Jerusalem, especially regarding the club's social impact. The Euroleague is just one of those goals. I'm calm because it's clear to me that if the Euroleague is built on the money of Dubai and the Gulf states, the league won't last long."

Q; Do you hope for Maccabi Tel Aviv's success in the Euroleague?

"After the tough past year, when all the Israeli teams played outside of Israel and we suffered such hatred, the success of the Israeli teams abroad is important. When Maccabi Tel Aviv plays in Europe I'm for them, when Hapoel Tel Aviv plays in Europe I'm for them. They represent Israel, and in the situation we live in today, that's very important. First and foremost we are Jews and Zionists.

"They receive important values"

To be an owner of a sports team in Israel in such a difficult year of war is no easy task. Adelson may not be publicly politically active, and you won't see him in that arena, but he clarifies that the war has sharpened many insights for him. "Many know my parents' political views," he says. "I don't want to turn this into a political interview, but my views are certainly similar to my parents'. If there's one thing that has become clearer to me this past year, it's the understanding of how important military service is.

To be an owner of a sports team in Israel in such a difficult year of war is no easy task. Adelson may not be publicly politically active, and you won't see him in that arena, but he clarifies that the war has sharpened many insights for him. "Many know my parents' political views," he says. "I don't want to turn this into a political interview, but my views are certainly similar to my parents'. If there's one thing that has become clearer to me this past year, it's the understanding of how important military service is.

"Let me tell you a story: When my sister's son (the sister is Yasmin Lukatz, the CEO and founder of ICON and the founder and president of Code for Israel) was about to enlist in the army, it took me some time to understand how right that choice was for him. Because the IDF not only defends the country or provides future skills if you're in a certain field, like Unit 8200 – the army gives young Israelis something that exists nowhere else in the world: It instills values, it makes young people more mature. If the US had mandatory military service, even for a year, we would see a dramatic change in the character of American youth. They would receive important values and become different people from what we see today on American university campuses.

"In that sense, the year that I've lived in Israel has completely changed my perspective. The way I look at the military and the meaning of military service is not the way I looked at it when I was just an American Jewish boy."

Q: Since you brought it up, do you feel more Israeli or American?

"I'll tell the truth: I understand Hebrew very well, but I prefer to speak English. Let them think I don't understand a word of Hebrew, it's good for business," he laughs. "I live on Rothschild in Tel Aviv, I have a team in Jerusalem, and of course – I have an Israeli girlfriend. But when I look at my future I know that at some point I'll live in the US. That's where I was born, where I grew up, and that's my background. It's clear to me that Israel will be a very significant part of my life, and it's not like I'll be able to spend a whole year of my life without being in Israel.

"You see how the entire country rallies for the captives and pitches in for one another; these are things that don't exist elsewhere in the world. I contributed my small part this year and hoped to make an impact, but many people around me did amazing things that anyone looking from the outside stood in awe of."

Q; So what did Israel actually do for you personally?

"If there's one thing I've improved at since being here – I definitely feel more brazen than I was when I arrived in Israel. It's something I've learned from Israelis, and it's actually nice, although I still have room for improvement in that too."

The post Hapoel Jerusalem owner Matan Adelson speaks about Zionism – and much more appeared first on www.israelhayom.com.

An event marking three years since the passing of Sheldon Adelson was held Wednesday at Reichman University in Herzliya. Adelson, who founded Israel Hayom together with his wife Miriam, passed away at 87 on January 11, 2021. The event was held at the Adelson School of Entrepreneurship, which the couple helped build along with other schools in the university, some seven years ago. 

The event was attended by Dr. Adelson, Prof. Reichman – the founding president and chairman of the university's board of director – the current president Prof. Boaz Ganor, the university's Governor Oudi Recanati, and graduates of the Adelson School of Entrepreneurship.

At the event's opening, Prof. Reichman said: "About seven years ago we celebrated here in this hall the inauguration of this institution and the Miriam and Sheldon Adelson School of Entrepreneurship. Since then, our undergraduates and alumni have reached seventh place in the world in the number of unicorns in universities with fewer than 15,000 students. Over the past decdes, I have had the privilege and experience to follow not only Sheldon Adelson's achievements but also to learn about his character, his entrepreneurial thinking, and the courses of action derived from it."

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Video: Dr. Miriam Adelson speaks at the event / Moshe Ben-Simhon

Dr. Adelson said in her speech: "Sheldon and I were here in the early days, 20 years ago, when Reichman University was founded under the name  Interdisciplinary Center Herzliya. It was an academic startup, an entrepreneurial act. It was only natural that the university would establish an entrepreneurship school proudly bearing the name Adelson. I promise you that this charming corner of Herzliya had a special place in Sheldon's heart."

In her remarks, Dr. Adelson also spoke about the ongoing war and Israelis' rallying around the flag, saying: "The enemy cannot defeat us. A nation that sanctifies life chooses life. It cannot defeat the Start-Up Nation – the land of dreamers and inventors. We all need to be entrepreneurs today; we need to find a way to bring our captives home, whether through sophisticated negotiations or military brilliance. We have to win this war in a way that ensures October 7 will never happen again. And we must reinvigorate our social contract – between Right and Left, religious and secular, the Jewish majority and the Arab minority, native-born Israelis and Diaspora Jews. Israel is a miracle, and it will shine anew."

Full disclosure: The Adelson family owns the company that is the primary shareholder in Israel Hayom. Dr. Miriam Adelson is the publisher of Israel Hayom.

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A memorial ceremony was held Thursday at the Mount of Olives cemetery in Jerusalem, marking three years since the passing of Sheldon Adelson – a staunchly pro-Israel businessman and philanthropist, one of the biggest donors for the Jewish and Israeli causes, and the founder of Israel Hayom, together with his wife Dr. Miriam Adelson.

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The ceremony was attended by his widow, Dr. Miriam Adelson, their children, former Chief Rabbi of Israel and Chairman of the Yad Vashem Council Rabbi Israel Meir Lau, friends and acquaintances.

The moving ceremony was led by cantor and singer Shai Abramson, who recited the "El Maleh Rachamim" prayer. Alongside him, singer Maya Avraham performed "When the Heart Cries" by Yossi Gispan and "Love of My Life" by Queen. Rabbi Lau recited a Psalm in his memory, after which the sons Adam and Matan jointly said the Kaddish prayer for the dead.

Dr. Adelson recalled the growing longing: "Three years have passed since Sheldon went to his eternal rest, three years without the love of my life, the unique and distinguished man, the giant around whom my entire universe revolved, for whom in my eyes the sun rose and set every day."

She mentioned that Sheldon z"l always stood by Israel's side and supported the Jewish state with all his might, adding that "for us Jews, this is a frightening and stressful period. A period when I so wish I could lean on Sheldon. I'm sure he would stand today upright and steadfast, as he did as a boy in Boston when he stood up to a gang of Irish bullies who used to harass the Jewish children."

She added, "If Sheldon were with us today he would fully support Israel in its righteous battle. Sheldon would have looked at Gaza and placed responsibility solely on Hamas, and only on Hamas ... He would have looked President Biden in the eye and said 'I never voted for you and never would have voted for you, but I'm grateful you stood unwaveringly on Israel's side."

She went on to describe the gaping hole he left among so many. "Sheldon, my one and only beloved, you are gone but have not parted from us. We will never part from you. It is customary to say 'Rest in peace', so forgive me for not letting you rest, we still need you so much. Thank you for your love, wisdom, and advice, in our hearts, you will always live," eulogized Dr. Adelson.

The daughter, Yasmin Lukatz, also delivered a speech at the graveside, saying Sheldon z"l chose to be buried in Jerusalem "because of his great love for the city and what it symbolized as the eternal and undisputed capital of the State of Israel, of the Jewish people throughout the generations, and because of Jerusalem's important place in his heart."

Lukatz noted, "Sheldon had another reason to be buried here – his desire for us children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren to be in Jerusalem at least once a year. To come from all over the world and be here together, to see these amazing landscapes and experience the sanctity and importance of this city."

"On October 7 I thought, what Sheldon would have thought about what's going on here, how he would have taken it, how much he would have grieved for the country, the people, the soldiers. How much he loved this place. I know he would have been strong and optimistic, rallying all his abilities, people around him, family, opinions, and money to do everything he could to make this a better place."

"Dad," added Lukatz, "we are here and we are your emissaries, we will do everything we can to make things better here, and continue coming to Jerusalem much more than once a year and seeing all this beauty and being together. Because together we will prevail."

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Dr. Miriam Adelson spoke on Sunday at an Adelson School of Medicine's ceremony at Ariel University, urging the young doctors to put politics aside as they live up to Jewish values to preserve life and health. 

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The event, which marks the end of the first phase of the studies and the beginning of the clinical experience, was attended by the dean of the school, Shai Ashkenazi, with about 70 students getting their white robes. 

Adelson, who is a physician herself, spoke in her commencement address about the role students take, which is almost akin to being God. "For five decades, more or less, I have been a doctor, but it still moves me to see how many more people join our ranks," she said. "After all, we are like a special club that deals with the secrets of the human body, we hold the powers to preserve and protect life," she continued, recalling that her late husband, the businessman and philanthropist Sheldon Adelson, would have been "so proud to see all of you, the first class of graduates from a medical school bearing his name." 

Adelson, who is also the Israel Hayom publisher, recalled how it was Sheldon and herself who agreed to fund the creation of the medical school about a decade earlier when they heard that Israel was facing a shortage of medical professionals. 

Video: Dr. Adelson speaks at the Ariel University of Samaria event // Credit: Gil Cramer

Adelson continued, coming out against the threats made by some doctors in Israel that they could end up leaving Israel if the contested judicial reform passes. 

"It is no secret that I, too, have reservations over the scope and pace of the current judicial reform, but I would never even contemplate, for example, shutting down the center for addiction treatment that I founded with Sheldon in Tel Aviv 30 years ago," she said. "My friends, my colleagues in the medical profession, our role is no less crucial than that of IDF soldiers. They protect the country with their body, and we protect the body of every citizen. Doctors are what people see when they get born and when they part this world." She then went on to say that politics should have no role in pursuing a career in medicine. 

"Medicine is a blood and life pact, it is a commitment. Just like it would be inconceivable to get rid of a patient because he has become a burden or too challenging, we must stick by our country and community, regardless of what unfolds," she said. 

Health Ministry Director General Moshe Bar Siman Tov praised the young students and told them that they face a unique challenge in that Israel's population grows by 2 % every year, or about a million people every five years. "We hope that in Ariel we double the number of students that study every year so that we have 2,000 annually." 

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An event held on Monday in Tel Aviv celebrated the more than 1,200 heroin and painkiller addicts who have been treated by the Dr. Miriam and Sheldon G. Adelson Clinic for Drug Abuse Treatment & Research, giving them a new lease on life.

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The event to honor the  30-year-anniversary of the founding of the clinic – which has since become the leading treatment center for opioid abuse victims – was attended by Dr. Adelson and other Adelson family members, Director of the Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center – Ichilov Prof. Ronni Gamzu, Tel Aviv Mayor Ron Huldai, former Jewish Agency for Israel Chairman Natan Sharansky, and the head of the clinic Yali Abramsohn.

Dr. Adelson, which founded the clinic in 1993 with her husband – the late businessman and philanthropist Sheldon Adelson – spoke at the event. "For every patient saved from addiction, there are also a dozen family members who are spared the anguish and burden of this disease. Sheldon, may his memory be a blessing, used to say, 'It feels good to do good.' I am glad to be able to provide some of my expertise for the sake of the patients and those who have needed it for the past 30 years."

Dr. Miriam Adelsn is the publisher of Israel Hayom.

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We are all affected by the mounting crisis around the judicial reforms. But arguably the question of the Supreme Court's standing has special relevance for this newspaper – for me, as its publisher, and you, as its readers.

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Around a decade ago, there were those in the Knesset who wanted to pass a law against freebie newspapers in the name of media market competition. But to anyone with eyes in their heads, it was clear that the true aim was to curb Israel Hayom, the trailblazing daily of the right-wing, patriotic camp.

How well I remember the bemusement of my late husband Sheldon at such hypocrisy. After all, he had launched this newspaper in the service of all the nation of Israel: to broaden out reporting to areas that were then being insufficiently covered and thus to enrich and bolster democracy.

"Don't worry, Sheldon," I reassured him. "As it says in the Bible, there are judges in Jerusalem. Even if this wretched bill passes in parliament, it will be struck down by the High Court of Justice, as it runs counter to the fundamental right of freedom of speech."

As it happened, the bill withered on the vine between readings. But the principle I articulated applies as much today as it did then.

Just to be clear: I do not agree with each and every ruling handed down by the High Court over the years. But just as I have been disappointed by some rulings, I always knew that I could draw encouragement and find justice in others. And, of course, I honored all of them equally.

We must always be mindful of the fact that the value of this institution is in its measure of detachment from the public mood as its justices seek to hew to the core principles of a civilized society.

It is worth noting, by way of example, how the dynamics then at work over "The Israel Hayom Law" have shifted, and that today some of those who favored the bill would be opposed. In any event, the newspaper has remained stalwartly right-wing and patriotic – not so, perhaps, the politics roiling around it.

When I watch today's discourse, I know what Sheldon would say. As he did when he founded Israel Hayom, he would tap his rich experience in business negotiation, those very processes that made him a magnate and philanthropist of historic stature, and repurpose the following guiding values:

"Deal Heat"

Sheldon would always caution against a person being too keen to pursue and close a deal. What's the rush? What are the real motivations? Is it possible that all is not as it seems when it comes to the resources and timelines on offer?

Regardless of the substance of the reforms, the government's dash to ratify them is naturally suspect, raising questions about the root objectives and concern that this is a hasty, injudicious, and irresponsible move. A good deal is reached through cold-eyed circumspection. Slow down!

"Know As Much as the Experts"

To ensure that the hotels he built attained perfect authenticity and polish without excessive expense, Sheldon did not make do with consulting experts. He gained expertise himself.

For example, when we built The Venetian in Las Vegas, he traveled to Venice in order to study up close how the moist sea air had given the stone buildings their signature wear. Then he invented a chemical method of replicating that look in the materials used in the construction of the hotel.

The question to both sides in today's dispute in Israel is: Do you fully understand Israel's unique situation and the possible ramifications of these changes, all of which differ from other countries to which you are drawing comparisons? Does invective like "traitors" or "dictators" really have a legal or historic – let alone moral – rationale?

"Always Leave Money on the Table"

Sheldon enjoyed succeeding in business. But his was not a "zero-sum" approach where the opposing side is left with nothing. If everyone leaves a deal prosperous and happy, that reduces the risk of it being breached and increases the chances of more fruitful cooperation in the future.

The current government of Israel was legally elected and has a legitimate right to implement its policy. At the same time, the opposition has the right to voice its views on fateful decisions. But because of the ongoing and polarized feud, all that is happening is that Israel's economy and reputation are suffering.

Let us "leave money on the table" for everyone – even if only through mutual shows of respect, and certainly by dialing down the vitriol. It is important to ensure that all sides emerge from this argument with heads held high, able to continue working together and not seeking to undermine and quickly change whatever arrangement is reached.

"Love what you do, and do what you love"

Sheldon was the love of my life – among other reasons because love drove his every action. That included his business empire, where he always sought to bring aesthetic beauty to the world and to lift up his customers by providing them with joy and value for money.

In Sheldon's array of charitable work, what guided him was not prestige or praise, but rather, making good on his love for others: preserving history, protecting Israel's future, and rehabilitating the wounded warriors of Israel and America whom he so admired, being himself a former US Army soldier married to a former IDF officer.

We must all keep in mind that we love this country – a miracle of God's grace. Many have given their lives for that love. Many more yet are ready to sacrifice for it.

Let us not be ruled by sectarianism, refusal to accept the outcome of elections, or a desire to settle personal scores.

Bad motivations never bring about good outcomes.

Like a family in crisis that comes together around Shabbat dinner, we should acknowledge our common love for the country and desire to see it succeed.

The Beatles – a band that was no small business success – put it best when they sang: "All you need is love."

Dr. Miriam Adelson is the publisher of Israel Hayom. The Adelson family owns the company that is the primary shareholder in Israel Hayom.

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A memorial event was held next to Sheldon Adelson's grave at the Mount of Olives Cemetery in Jerusalem on Tuesday, marking the second yahrzeit of the passing of the pro-Israel businessman and one of the biggest donors to  Israeli and Jewish causes,  who founded Israel Hayom with his wife Dr. Miriam Adelson.

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In attendance was Dr. Adelson, the head of the Jewish Agency Doron Almog, the former Chief Ashkenazi Rabbi Yisrael Meir Lau, former Jewish Agency Chairman Natan Sharansky, and the founder of Reichman University Uriel Reichman, as well as many of his friends and families.

The event was led by Chief Cantor of the Israel Defense Forces Shai Abramson, who recited "El Maleh Rahamim", the traditional prayer for the soul of the departed. Yonatan Razel performed his rendition of Yossi Gispan's Khshe Halev Boche ("When the heart weeps") and Naomi Shemer's "Al Kol Ele" ("For all this").

Rabbi Lau recited Psalms for the elevation of the soul and Adelson's sons recited the Kaddish. Among those who spoke at the event were Dr. Adelson, as well as the two sons Adam and Matan, and daughters Yasmin Lukatz and Sivan Dumont, and her husband Patrick Dumont. The speeches touted the late Adelson's great impact on so many people and the growing sense of loss as time passes by.

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A cornerstone laying ceremony was held at the Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center – Ichilov Hospital on Sunday for the Adelson National Center for Advanced Cancer Therapy.

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Dr. Miriam Adelson took part in the moving ceremony, as did CEO of Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center Prof. Ronni Gamzu. At the construction site where an older structure once stood and the new building will be built, Adelson said, "This is where I began my residency as a physician at Ichilov."

In January, on the one-year anniversary of business Sheldon Adelson's death, the family of the businessman and philanthropist announced a substantial donation to the Israeli health system. Prior to his death, Adelson ordered the donation of $40 million for the establishment of a cancer treatment center at Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center.

At 43,000 square feet and 20 stories tall, the Adelson National Center for Advanced Cancer Therapy will be constructed in two stages over a period of five years in the medical center's southwest wing, situated on the intersection between Tel Aviv's Weizmann and Dafna streets. The tower will also be directly connected to a light-rail tunnel currently under construction in the Tel Aviv metropolitan area that will serve the thousands of daily visitors to the medical complex each day.

At the national proton therapy institute, advanced proton radiation will be used for the treatment of cancer. Similar to other advanced radiotherapy technologies, proton therapy works through the precise transfer of high-energy radiation to a tumor, damaging cancer cells' DNA and resulting in the cells' destruction, without damaging surrounding tissue and with reduced side effects.

The Adelson family owns the company that is the primary shareholder in Israel Hayom. Dr. Miriam Adelson is the publisher of Israel Hayom.

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