Israel Active

In the Israeli city of Kiryat Gat, Beta Israel Village performs two functions. Firstly, to help the older generation of Ethiopian Israelis find their way in a new country. Secondly, to connect the younger generation to their heritage and to make them proud of their roots.

Israeli rhythmic gymnast Linoy Ashram won three gold medals at the Grand Prix Marbella in Spain, coming top in the hoop, clubs, and ribbons competitions.  She is now a favorite to win a medal in the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo.

Israel’s “special” Shalva Band had to withdraw from the Eurovision competition but will instead perform during the interval at the second semi-final.  The band will also perform at the official state ceremony on Israel’s Independence Day on Mount Herzl.

Officially, Israel has only ever won one gold medal – Gal Fridman won it for the men’s sailboard at the 2004 Athens Olympics.  Few know about Ágnes Keleti who now lives in Herzliya. She won ten Olympic medals including five golds. At the time, however, she competed for Hungary.

Jay Lethal will defend his Ring of Honor (ROH) world wrestling title against David Starr on 21st Apr in Netanya – the first time in the Jewish State. Proceeds raised from the show will go to the NGO Make A Wish Israel, helping sick children to fulfill their dreams.

Erez Speiser of Israel By Foot has sent me news of Spring Journey 2019. 16 days of unique hiking journey, starting on 22nd March from Mount Hermon, all the way down to the Sea of Galilee. Via streams and springs. mountains, hills and meadows - far away from the noisy city and busy roads.

To bring people to the city streets on winter nights, a street festival שאון חורף – Shaon Horef, or Winter Noise was started over seven years ago. The free cultural festival features varied and often “out of the box” entertainment. Music and bands perform in multiple locations.

The Company for the Reconstruction and Development of the Jewish Quarter in the Old City of Jerusalem is spending 200 million shekels improving the Jewish Quarter with better access, shade, lighting, recreation areas, seating and sign-posting.

Israeli director Guy Nattiv won the Oscar for “Live Action Short Film” with his movie "Skin" at the Academy Awards. The 20-minute movie deals with a hate crime and its ramifications from the point of view of two children, one white and the other black.

There’s plenty to enjoy in Jerusalem just now.  Red anemones have sprouted in the capital; Jerusalem is gearing up for its marathon on 15th Mar; Ice (skating) and Eat is the new concept in Mitchell Park and registration has opened for the first GFNY Jerusalem cycle race.