"Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right." Oprah Winfrey 

As we enter the high holiday season, a sense of renewal fills the air, and I find myself reinvigorated with boundless energy and enthusiasm. 

Over the past month, both Lior and I have crisscrossed the United States, engaging with partners who share our passion and vision for culinary excellence. These meetings have ignited a wave of momentum, as this will be the year when the Galilee Culinary Institute by JNF finally opens its doors to the world. 

At GCI, we understand that building an institution of this magnitude takes an army, and we are immensely grateful for our remarkable partners at JNF USA who have stood by our side throughout this transformative journey. Together, we are crafting not just a culinary school, but a beacon of innovation and excellence that will shine on the international stage. 

It's heartening to witness the overwhelming interest in our flagship program. Enthusiastic applications have been pouring in, and while we're thrilled by the response, there are still a few coveted spots available. This inaugural cohort is truly special, for being a part of the first wave of change-makers at GCI is a unique privilege that can only be experienced once in a lifetime. 

As we look ahead, our excitement knows no bounds, especially with the JNF Global conference for Israel approaching at the end of November. This gathering promises to be a hub of ideas, inspiration, and collaboration, where we can collectively envision the path ahead and work towards a brighter culinary future. 

Together, let's embrace the dawn of a remarkable year, where GCI's doors swing open, and the aroma of innovation and culinary artistry fills the Galilean air. 

I wish everyone with a Ketiva v’chatima Tova, Leshana tovah umatuka, that everyone should be inscribed and sealed in the book of life, a good and sweet new year.   We should all have blessings of good health, wealth, success in all that we do and only be a force for good.  

L'chaim! 

Nathan