Like so many Jews around the world, I have been watching with deep anticipation the process and outcome of the Israeli elections. As non­-participatory observers, it is sometimes difficult to grasp what role we play in this exercise of democracy. But we as a Federation community are not as far removed from the daily business of Israel as we might realize.

Since 2011, Federation has been a part of an exciting initiative to foster strong business, academic and leadership ties between Greater Hartford and Israel. Working with local partners, including the Metro­-Hartford Alliance, the Federation's public affairs division, the Jewish Community Relations Council of the Jewish Federation, has:

• Connected dozens of state and foreign businesses at three CT­Israel Technology Summits in our area.

• Traveled to Israel on a business mission with Commissioner Catherine Smith of the Department of Economic and Community Development to raise the profile of Connecticut in Israel.

• Forged a partnership with UCONN Health and UCONN's Office of Global Affairs to present an Innovation Showcase featuring four Israeli companies.This unique learning and networking opportunity directly affects both the Israeli and Hartford communities we serve.

It is our firm belief that by leading these efforts, the Federation can, in tangible and effective ways, contribute to keeping Israel's economy one of the most vibrant, cutting edge and responsive free market economies in the world. This is a win­-win for the United States, for the Israeli economy and for the entire global Jewish community.

Shabbat Shalom,

Howard

Howard Sovronsky
President & CEO