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Israel Museum gets $12M from US foundation
Cleveland's Mandel Foundation announces multi million dollar donation to Jerusalem museum on eve of its 45th anniversary
A Cleveland foundation is donating $12 million to the Israel Museum in Jerusalem to help with an expansion timed for its 45th anniversary next year.
The Plain Dealer newspaper reports that the gift from the Mandel Foundation allows the museum to reach a $100 million fundraising goal for the project, which is doubling the amount of gallery space. Construction began in 2007.
The museum will be 45 years old in May. Its collection includes everything from the Dead Sea Scrolls to Picasso sculptures.
In a statement, foundation chairman Morton Mandel says he and his brothers believe the Israel Museum is a unique treasure that enhances the understanding of Jewish heritage.
