Each time we get together, the Modi'in and Rochester steering committees forge deeper bonds of friendship. The July 2007 meetings, held in Rochester, were no exception.
 
We also hit our stride in terms of effectively working together and making decisions that will continue to grow our partnership and reap benefits in both our communities. The weather was perfection (this from the Rochester standpoint; for the Israelis, it may have been a tad cool).
 
Starting with a lovely opening dinner at the home of Larry and Elyse Fine, we quickly got reacquainted with seasoned committee members and welcomed a few newcomers among our ranks. Beginning the working meetings on July 2nd, we got caught up on each other's projects -- the success of the Artist Exchange (despite a little dust), the ongoing, fruitful Education Bridge, the coming "Journey for Identity," book sharing project and Chef Exchange -- and wandered around Pittsford Wegmans. A boat ride on the Erie Canal added a lovely recreational component to the afternoon. We then had a working dinner and some people-to-people conversation at The Summit, Rochester's senior living complex.
 
Tuesday began with a presentation of Aviva Berger's beautiful sculpture by her Artist Exchange partner Lynne Feldman at the JCC. Following, we took a field trip to the Genesee Country Museum, met in sub-committees and evaluated our projects to date. A guided tour of the museum rounded out the afternoon. A spectacular closing dinner at the home of Beth and Josh Bruner was the perfect end to a brief but full and rewarding visit together. Hila Hadas and Rick Goldstein were toasted and thanked for their exceptional leadership as co-chairs. Beth Bruner was welcomed into her new role as Rochester Chair.
 
We thank all of our steering committee members, in Modi'in and in Rochester, for making time for the meetings. Many thanks also for the gracious hospitality offered to our Israeli guests.
 
The Partnership continues!