I have realized that I am at an age when things sometimes seem to speed up. It’s as if time is moving faster, and the days and weeks go by quicker than they should. While I know this is scientifically false, I still feel it to be true. (Even though I cannot see you reading this week’s column, I suspect you know exactly what I mean.) I am feeling this way right now. Looking back, I realize this tends to happen around this time of year—right after Passover, as we approach summer.

In the work our Jewish Federation does with local school districts, in meetings, I often hear how school administrators and staff seem forced to cram important events and activities at or near the end of the year. There is just so much everyone wants to do, and there never seems to be enough time to spread it out on a calendar.

I share this in this week’s column because, over the next several weeks, our Jewish Federation has coordinated a series of programs that seem to have fallen around this time of year.

Our first event takes place this Tuesday, April 28. It is Israel in Focus: A Nation Transformed – From October 7 to Iran, and what comes next. This event, provided in partnership with Jewish Federations of North America, American Jewish Committee, ADL, and other national Jewish organizations, features a conversation with Herb Keinon, Senior Contributing Editor and Analyst for the Jerusalem Post. This is a chance for our community to hear a very timely update, an expert perspective, and a meaningful discussion on the Israel–Hamas conflict and broader Middle East challenges. Hope you will join us this coming Tuesday, April 28.

Then, we turn our attention to JFed Players’ spring production of Southern Fried Funeral. This warm-hearted comedy centers on a dysfunctional Southern family grappling with grief and a land-grabbing relative. Performances are May 2, 3, 7, 9, and 10. Click here to get your tickets.

We then turn our attention to security as we are coordinating a Town Hall and Security Briefing on Thursday morning, May 14. This event is a chance for our community to learn more about CSI and how, through our partnership, we are working together to keep our community safer and better protected. In addition, there will be a Security Briefing with representatives from local/federal law enforcement agencies to share insight, perspective, and information, as well as to hear our community's concerns and answer questions. This event is open to everyone, but for security reasons, registration is required.

Finally, on Tuesday, May 19, we have partnered with the ADL to bring their How to Win Hearts and Minds: Communication Strategies for combating antisemitism to our community. Attendees at this interactive event will receive practical, evidence-based tools to respond to antisemitism with clarity and confidence, as well as guidance on navigating challenging moments, while strengthening Jewish voices and community. This event is open to everyone, but registration is required.

As you can see, our Jewish Federation is offering a wide range of opportunities for our community to not only connect but also engage with the issues we are confronting today.

Oh… and one more thing… make sure to keep a lookout for our next Federation FOCUS, which should arrive in your mailbox within the week.