Friends of Israel Defense Forces to Benefit from Free Wine-Tasting Fundraiser

The second annual premium wine-tasting fundraising event benefitting FIDF (Friends of Israel Defense Forces) will be held on Thursday, October 8 from 4-8 p.m. hosted by Highland Park’s premium men’s specialty store, Avant for Men (1849 Greenbay Road).

“The FIDF has vital programs that support the troops and their families,” says Avant owner, Elia Galam. “Their Legacy program is a program that I truly embrace as it supports the widows, orphans, and other family members who lost a loved one during military service. Knowing that FIDF is there to help these families rebuild their lives is comforting.”

Among the event’s attendees will be a former Israel Defense Forces combat soldier, Dvir Dimri, who will share his personal experiences. During Operation Protective edge, of which he served for 30 days, Dimri had a close brush with death.

“I was the commander of this mission. After a couple of hours on the border, we started to be shot at from the west, and realized that two terrorists had emerged from the tunnel and were quite close to us,” he remembers. “However, it was night so we couldn’t be sure of their position, and we knew that other IDF soldiers were deeper in than we were. We therefore were being shot at, but couldn’t return fire for the fear of hitting our brothers. Two of my soldiers were quite scared, as two days earlier, five soldiers had been killed in a similar position. I had to reassure them while also following the commands being given to me, and continuing to do what we could on the frontlines. Fortunately, the terrorists were stopped, and all of my men were okay.”

Highlights for the October 8 event will include premium wine tasting from Jemrose Wines, catered hors d’oeuvres donated by Feast & Imbibe, a silent auction of rare wines, a presentation of Robert Talbot’s Fall Collection and the latest time pieces from Razny Jewelers. In addition, a photo retrospective of Jewish baseball players will be on display, with the option to purchase original artwork, prints, or hand-painted personalized items (portion of sales will be donated to FIDF). Flowers donated by Swansons Blossom Shop and live music will add to the ambiance of the event.

Many exclusive items have been generously donated and will be raffled during the event, including a Breitling watch from Razny Jewelers , a Trek bike from Trek Bicycle Store in Highland Park, items from Autohaus on Edens, Cubs tickets, Blackhawks and Bears memorabilia, and Robert Talbott clothing.

During the event, contribute $200 to FIDF and receive a 15% discount on your entire purchase at Avant for Men; contribute $300 or more to FIDF and receive a 25% discount storewide (including Jemrose Wines).

About Avant for Men (www.avantformen.com)

Avant for Men provides fine menswear and personalized made-to-measure services to customers in the greater Chicago area. Located in Highland Park, Avant for Men carries a wide variety of men’s suits, sportswear, outerwear, footwear and accessories from elegant brands, and offers superior tailoring services for clothing, outerwear and accessories. Avant for Men is located in the heart of downtown Highland Park’s Renaissance Place, 1849 Greenbay Road, #105, Highland Park, IL 60035. For more information call 847-681-1100.

About Friends of Israel Defense Forces FIDF

Friends of Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) initiates and helps support educational, social, cultural, and recreational programs & facilities for the young men and women soldiers of Israel who defend the Jewish homeland. FIDF also supports the families of fallen soldiers. Their slogan is “Their job is to look after Israel. Ours is to look after them.” FIDF is located at 29 E. Madison St., Chicago, IL 60602. For more information, please call 312-372-8500 or visit www.FIDF.org.