By Ian Sternthal, ROI Micro Grant recipient

In an era where discussions about Israel are increasingly polarized, we must keep remembering to ourselves, and reminding others, that Israel is a complex place, and not just a concept - regardless of our political orientation. This is the driving notion behind my desire to continue working with Israeli artists, promoting and publicizing their work around the world.

Thanks to the ROI microgrant, I was able to organize a book launch event for Sternthal Books latest publication, Guy Yanai's monograph 'First We Feel Then We Fall.' The event was held in the Christie's boardroom at 20 Rockefeller Plaza, surrounded by Modigliani's Picasso's, and DeKoonings. 

You may have come across some of the fun Rosh Hashana videos made in preparation for the 5772 Jewish New Year. Some ROIers have been involved and feature in these great clips.

See Ein Prat's Fountainheads perform "Dip Your Apple" and other great clips by clicking on this blog!

El Al's August 2011 Atmosphere in-flight magazine carries a four page feature on ROI Community, with a spotlight on ROIers Brian Elliot, Dina Buchbinder Auron, Edoe Cohen, Michal Ansky and Rachel Olstein Kaplan.