Author Archives: MichaelOrdman

2nd Temple mikvah discovered under Western Wall

Posted on January 10, 2026

A rock-hewn mikveh (ritual purification bath) dating to the final days of the Second Temple period was discovered recently during excavations beneath the Western Wall Plaza. It bears ash remains that testify to the destruction of the Temple by the … Continue reading →

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Helping Israeli orphans to heal

Posted on January 10, 2026

Marlene Kolangi founded “Israel Orphans of 10/7” to provide financial aid, therapy and support to children shattered by the events of Oct 7 2023. The charity supports 151 children with $500 to $750 Tav Hazahav gift cards per child each … Continue reading →

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Former hostage’s concert is sold out

Posted on January 10, 2026

Tickets for the Feb 9 concert at Hangar 11 at Tel Aviv port, featuring recently released captive Alon Ohel, sold out within hours after the pianist announced the event on social media, underscoring the public response to his return and … Continue reading →

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From captivity to happiness

Posted on January 10, 2026

Former Gaza hostages Matan Zangauker and Ilana Gritzwesky have announced their engagement. Matan endured 738 days in Hamas captivity and was one of the last hostages to be released. Ilana survived 55 horrific days in Hamas captivity. They were abducted … Continue reading →

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Israel Library shows rare Rambam manuscript

Posted on January 10, 2026

. The National Library of Israel is displaying a rare 14th-century manuscript of Maimonides’ Mishneh Torah for the first time as part of its permanent exhibition. Copied in Provence between 1300 and 1350 C.E., it was later vividly illustrated by … Continue reading →

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The first Israeli US women’s soccer league player

Posted on January 10, 2026

Israel’s Talia Sommer signed for professional women’s soccer team Gotham FC and reportedly has become the first Israeli to join the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). Sommer, born in New York, has played for Israel’s women’s national team. https://www.algemeiner.com/2025/12/11/talia-sommer-becomes-first-israeli-athlete-join-us-national-womens-soccer-league/

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The first Israeli MLB pitching coach

Posted on January 10, 2026

Israel’s Alon Leichman, originally from Kibbutz Gezer, has been appointed pitching coach for US Major League Baseball team Colorado Rockies. He is now with family in Israel, celebrating his recent marriage. He speaks fluent Spanish – useful in MLB with … Continue reading →

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Israel’s clearest spring

Posted on January 10, 2026

After a long closure and renovation, one of the north’s most popular springs – Ein Shokek in the Valley of Springs – reopened to the public. It now has stroller-friendly access, a safety fence, child-friendly pools, and a shuttle service. … Continue reading →

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Docu-Nation Series 3

Posted on January 10, 2026

Some interesting documentaries in the latest season of the Times of Israel’s Docu-Nation Series. The King of Borek (I love bourekas), Zelda (the poetess), and Imagine No Possessions (kibbutz). https://www.timesofisrael.com/docu-nation-season-3/

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Lowest inflation for 4 years

Posted on January 10, 2026

Israel’s inflation cooled further in November, with annual price growth slipping to 2.4 percent, its lowest level in four years. The Central Bureau of Statistics showed inflation staying firmly within the government’s 1–3 percent target range, after peaking at 5.4 … Continue reading →

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