The recipients of the 2012/5772 "Oz Tzion" Mozkowitz Prize for Zionism for 2012 are Dr. Yitzchak Glick, Chairman of the Emergency Medical Center in Efrat; Attorney Nitzana Darshan-Leitner, who fights against terrorist "lawfare"; and Tzvika Slonim, a founder of Gush Emunim and of the Ariel University Center.

Among the reasons given by the panel of judges for choosing Dr. Glick was his vision in establishing the Medical Center in Efrat. "He knew that there was no place more fitting and worthy than Efrat to serve as a base for a medical center. He managed to open all of the doors to the hearts of the decision makers and obtained generous contributions for establishing the center. He acted as a pioneer and leader."

Atty. Darshan-Leitner "impressed the panel with her daily devotion in maintaining the country´s honor. She never let go of those who wish to harm it. Her persistence and professionalism brought accomplishments that not everyone in the country is aware of. People like her raise a flag for society to rally around."

Tzvika Slonim "personifies the beautiful Land of Israel," the panel said, "a man who with his own hands planted seedlings throughout the land. He was often alone in the ring and yet he persisted. Anyone looking at his accomplishments over the years salutes him."

Slonim established the Eretz Yisrael Academy in Elon Moreh and the Kedumim Archeological Museum, and was one of the founders of the Ariel University Center. In 1980 he established a school for Ethiopian-immigrant girls in Kedumim and was instrumental in settling immigrants from Russia in Judea and Samaria. He established the Land Salvation Fund that became the main instrument for reclaiming land from Arab owners.

The Oz Tzion prize was established by Dr. Irving and Cherna Moskowitz, as an expression of support for the people who implement Zionism in today´s society, and who work for the betterment of society and to strengthen the Jewish national home. The prize includes a $50,000 cash award. (IsraelNationalNews © 2012 03/27/12)