There could be no Directors report this issue without mentioning Israel. Having just returned with our fabulous group, I wanted to share with you the road our journey took. This experience had so many layers. We felt our history, connected with our faith and saw the birth of our nation. We lived Israel as if we were part of her. We visited the Knesset, met with a noted journalist and discussed media and the political climate that exists now in the Middle East. We saw first hand security issues and were updated on the challenges that face our nation Israel.  The Golan Heights Winery, the Mediterranean cafes, the people — we lived with our brothers and sisters and took pride in how far we have come as a nation in a short few years.

The lessons of the holocaust are being remembered right here in our community. Days after visiting Yad Vashem, I had the honor of participating in the Holocaust Education Conference in NW Arkansas. I took part in this incredible day that raised awareness and educated teens here in Arkansas.

The Food Festival, May 15th, will bring us closer to the food and culture of Israel and our people.  Our own Shlicha Shelly is organizing a wine tasting on January 19th. We can all imagine ourselves sitting at the amazing Golan Heights winery, tasting some of the international award-winning wines!

This feeling of pride, of ownership, that’s what I hope to bring back to all of you. Our community here fills me with pride. I feel such a part of it. Federation looks towards the future. Our Campaign Kickoff and awards dinner February 26 will honor Sam and Shirley Strauss, so essential in their support and nurturing of this community. The 2011 Tikkun Olam award recipients are so deserving. Each and every one of them has impacted and nurtured our Jewish community in Arkansas.

We have a full schedule this year, PJ Library, an Israeli film series, The Food Festival, noted journalist event/lecture this spring, Israel Scouts, Yom Hashoa memorial, Israel Independence Day, Wine tasting, Mission to Israel, new website, JFAR cookbook, maybe even a Jewish book fair! Our Strategic Planning process is back underway now that we met and heard the voices of our community!

Looking toward the future, it is an exciting time to be here in Arkansas with the Jewish Federation. The challenges of our future will be met with enthusiasm under our strong leadership and committed volunteers. The hands and sprig on the cover of this issue, really exemplify our goals. We are the hands that hold the future. We hold the fragile sprig of our community but together we can build a strong tree, one with many branches that will thrive for generations to come.