As part of the preparations for the Silicon Valley Israel Gala, the Russian division organized a series of increasingly popular parlor meetings held in the private homes of Russian-Jewish leaders. Speakers include high-profile, engaging individuals, such as Middle East expert Professor Abe Sofaer and the Chair of the JCF Israel and Overseas Committee Linda Brownstein. Parlor meeting guests gather to learn more about the Middle East situation and how they can make a difference to Israel and the Jewish community. Between the learning, the schmoozing — both with the speakers and each other — the delicious food, and the incredible atmosphere, these meetings have been consistently filled to capacity.

Participants at Galina and Lev Leytes' overbooked parlor meeting listen intently to Professor Abe Sofaer's insights about Israel and the Middle East.	Linda Brownstein, Israel and Overseas Committee Chair, addresses the gathering.
Guests at Alla and Boris Lipkin's parlor meeting share a laugh after a poignant story of Abe Sofaer's political involvement with the Kremlin and the fall of the Soviet Union.	Guests socialize over gourmet French cuisine at the Lipkins' home.