The Jewish Federation of the Berkshires Connecting with Community welcomes outgoing Massachusetts
State Senator Benjamin B. Downing (D-Pittsfield), who will describe his recent fact finding visit to Israel.

In December 2015, Senator Downing and a delegation from the Massachusetts State Senate traveled to Israel to
gain perspective on the complexities and challenges facing the country and the region.  Senator Downing will discuss what he learned over the course of 10 days traveling the country, meeting with government officials and local leaders in religion, academia, media, and business.

Benjamin B. Downing was first elected to the Massachusetts Senate on November 7, 2006 and was re-elected
in 2008, 2010, 2012, and 2014. Senator Downing represents the 52 communities of the Berkshire, Hampshire, Franklin & Hampden District, proudly serving the largest Senate district in the Commonwealth.

This free program is part of the Federation’s Connecting With Community Series and will be followed by a kosher hot lunch. Lunch is a $2 suggested donation for adults over 60 years of age or $7 for all others. Advance reservations are required for lunch and can be made by calling (413) 442-2200 before 9 a.m. on the day of the program.