And our captain is still steering the ship
The myopic IMF may have considered Professor Stanley Fischer too old to lead them, but here in Israel we hope he will continue to direct the Bank of Israel for many years yet.
More oil than in Saudi
Israel Energy Initiatives owns the concession for drilling in Israel’s Shfela basin. Its CEO believes that under Israel may be as much as half a trillion barrels of oil – twice that of Saudi Arabia.
Towering high
Back above ground, Tel Aviv’s skyline may soon have 3 huge new skyscrapers.
If it’s good enough for Israel, it’s good enough for US
Anyone cleared by Israeli security can now work on US defence projects without further security checks. That includes Israeli Arabs and those born outside Israel.
Strong and secure
Israel has advanced from 1948 when Al Schwimmer smuggled planes into the country. In 2010 Israel exported defensive equipment to the tune of $7.2 billion. Now the world looks to us for protection.
Another record month for tourism
Some 354,000 visitors arrived in Israel in April, 19 percent more than in April 2011 and 12 percent more than in April 2010, during Israel's record year for tourism. Over one million visitors arrived in Israel between January and April of this year, 4 percent more than the previous record.
The colours of Benetton are Blue & White
Italian clothing retailer Benetton will open its first flagship store in Israel at Tel Aviv's Dizengoff Centre. At least ten new Israeli stores are planned.
The best hostels
And they’re getting better. As the tourist industry boom continues, Israeli Youth Hostels are to have a $33 million upgrade and expansion. All rooms have cable TV, fridges, air con and private bathrooms.
Fischer for IMF chief?
It’s official; Bank of Israel chairman Sir Stanley Fischer is a candidate. According to a Reuters’ poll of economists, he is the person they think is most suitable for the role.
“UK blogger” gets publicity
We’re not sure when our location changed, but our email complaint two weeks ago (to a Scottish council boycotting Israel) appears to have spread across the Internet. Here’s one example. You can still read Part 1 of the complaint (featuring the technology and food contributions Israel has made to the world) on the Jerusalem Post website. Part 2 (highlighting Israel’s medical achievements) is due soon.