Dear Members of Zahle Club of California (ZCAC) and all Zahliots of California:
I am honored to address all of our esteemed members and all California Zahliots who are interested in joining our club. I am submitting a vision and a plan of action for the coming years which was discussed and approved by the Board.
Since its formation as a non-profit 501(c)(3) public charity, ZCAC has focused on helping underprivileged families in Zahle. We have succeeded due to your contributions and generosity.
It is my considerate opinion and intent to shape ZCAC into an INSTITUTION that will endure past our term and subsequent boards’ terms indefinitely.
To reach this goal, I firmly believe that we need to involve our youth, especially those who were born here, and engage them in a dialogue relating to their roots and the meaning of being of Lebanese descent. Undoubtedly, their loyalty should be to America while simultaneously recognizing their ancestral background and their commitment to honor and help it. The proposed plan is to organize periodical gatherings of our families, with their children, to get acquainted with one another and to discuss the history of Lebanon, its traditions, its peculiarities, its symbolism for the region and the world as the land of multi-religious groups, as well as the difficulties it is currently facing. By doing so, we want our young generation to gradually take the helm, carry the torch and feel the responsibility to care for our people in Lebanon.
That is how ZCAC will become a well-established INSTITUTION that lasts in perpetuity.
Therefore, we respectfully ask you to participate in this endeavor and be proactive members of ZCAC to achieve our common goals.
We kindly ask each of you to interact with us, provide us with comments, ideas, and share your vision on how to elevate your organization to a higher level. I am grateful for such input.
EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU IS ZCAC.
ZCAC BELONGS TO YOU AND WITHOUT YOU IT CANNOT EXIST.
The board and I are entrusted by you to act on your behalf. We serve at your pleasure.
ZAHLE CLUB ASSOCIATION of CALIFORNIA
We encourage each and every one to join ZCAC. The membership fees are $100.00 per family and $50.00 per individual.
Every end-of-year we shall provide you with an accounting of income and expenses and any intended use of the funds.
Last but not least, I offer my hand in love and respect to all Zahliots to join together in UNITY and DEDICATION to support our efforts to help Zahle and its beloved people.
ZCAC motto is: TOGETHER WE CAN.
With much gratitude,
Andre Skaf
President
Message from the Vice President
Zahlé, “Ya Dar Assalam,” the home of peace, our beloved and iconic city, calls us no matter where we go. Famous for its charming cafes and restaurants along the banks of the Berdawni River, its mild climate, renowned poets and intellectuals, and the warmth of its cheerful people, Zahle is a place like no other. Its unique way of life, its signature arak, and its rich traditions make it unforgettable. Zahle is not just a city; it’s a part of you, a feeling that lingers in your heart and soul, a kind of addiction that stays with you. No matter how long you’re away, when you return, you find the same familiar places, the same welcoming cafes and restaurants, everything in Zahle remains timeless. This constancy is what makes it so beautiful.
To honor our roots and strengthen our ties, we, the people of Zahle in Los Angeles, established the Zahle Club Association. Through this association, we stay connected to both our community here in California and to the city of Zahle, supporting its needs and preserving its spirit.
Dr. Nadine Farra Zakhem
Vice President
ZAHLE AS SEEN BY ITS VISITORS
Zahlé is a charming city located in the Bekaa Valley of Lebanon, often referred to as the “Capital of the Bekaa.” It is renowned for its breathtaking beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Surrounded by fertile plains and rugged mountains, Zahlé offers a stunning natural landscape that captures the hearts of visitors and locals alike.
Natural Beauty
Zahlé’s beauty is defined by its scenic surroundings. The city lies at the foot of the mountain range that separates the Bekaa Valley from the rest of Lebanon, providing dramatic views of lush vineyards, orchards, and flowing rivers. The most prominent natural feature is the Berdawni River, which runs through the city, adding a serene and peaceful element to its landscape. Along its banks, lush gardens, and open-air cafes create a welcoming atmosphere for relaxation and enjoying the surroundings.
The surrounding mountains, with their unique mix of Mediterranean and Alpine flora, offer opportunities for hiking and exploring. The warm climate in the summer and mild winters make Zahlé a year-round destination for nature lovers.
Cultural Heritage
Zahlé’s cultural heritage is just as striking as its natural beauty. The city is home to an abundance of traditional Lebanese architecture, such as Ottoman-era buildings and churches, which tell the story of the city’s long and varied history. Zahle has given the world some of the most inspired and read poets and writers among them the Malouf family, Chafik and Riad. Said Akl, Michel Trad and many others Zahlé is known for its wine-making tradition, with many local wineries producing some of Lebanon’s finest wines. The Bekaa Valley, where Zahlé is located, is often considered the heart of Lebanon’s wine country. Visitors can tour the local vineyards, sample wines, and enjoy the region’s agricultural bounty.
In addition to its wine, Zahlé is also famous for its delicious Lebanese cuisine, especially its MEZZE consisting of over thirty different appetizers. Traditional dishes, including grilled meats, fresh salads, and sweets like baklava, can be enjoyed in local restaurants or at vibrant street cafes. Kebbeh and mezze, along with the famous Zahlé arak (a local distilled drink), make for a quintessential Lebanese dining experience.
Historic Landmarks
Zahlé is also home to several landmarks that contribute to its historical appeal. The Lady of Zahle, with its imposing structure and elegant design, offers a viewing platform overlooking the red-roofed city and panoramic views of the Bekaa Valley and is one of
the most notable landmarks. The Roman-era ruins, such as those in the nearby Anjar archaeological site, further highlight the deep historical roots of the region. Zahlé itself is known for its rich cultural mix, with various Christian and Muslim communities coexisting harmoniously.
A Vibrant City
Today, Zahlé is a lively city that maintains its traditional charm while embracing modernity. Its combination of rich cultural traditions, stunning landscapes, and welcoming atmosphere makes it one of Lebanon’s most beloved destinations. Whether enjoying a leisurely afternoon by the river, tasting world-class wine, or exploring its historic streets, Zahlé offers a beautiful blend of nature, culture, and history.
Zahlé’s beauty, combined with its unique blend of history, culture, and natural charm, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Lebanon.
Compiled by:
Shirley Bayeh Board Member