Source: Arutz Sheva, 5-13-13
“First fruits” had to be one of the seven species that the Bible lists as Israel’s best crops – wheat, barley, grapes, figs, pomegranates, olives and dates and each year’s “first fruits” would be brought to the Temple from the holiday of Shavuot….READ MORE
Posted by bonniekgoodman on May 12, 2013
http://togetherwithisrael.wordpress.com/2013/05/12/israel-political-brief-may-13-2013-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-receives-first-fruits-for-shavuot-holiday/
Source: JTA, 4-28-13
Bonfires lit throughout Israel to mark Lag b’Omer burned out of control, stranding thousands of celebrants in the northern Israeli town of Meron….READ MORE
Posted by bonniekgoodman on April 28, 2013
http://togetherwithisrael.wordpress.com/2013/04/28/israel-brief-april-28-2013-lag-bomer-bonfires-burn-out-of-control-in-northern-israel/
Source: The Times of Israel, 4-1-13
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu took part in the celebrations, attending a Mimouna gathering in Or Akiva along with his wife Sara….READ MORE
Posted by bonniekgoodman on April 2, 2013
http://togetherwithisrael.wordpress.com/2013/04/02/israel-brief-april-1-2013-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-israelis-celebrate-end-of-passover-holiday-moroccan-style/
Source: Jerusalem Post, 3-24-13
MKs hold mock seder ending with a toast to Pollard and a reading of a prayer for the Israel agent’s welfare….READ MORE
Posted by bonniekgoodman on March 24, 2013
http://togetherwithisrael.wordpress.com/2013/03/24/israel-political-brief-march-24-2013-mks-call-for-leaving-seder-seat-open-for-jonathan-pollard/
Source: PMO, 1-20-13
יום ראשון ט’ שבט תשע”ג
Photo by GPO
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, today, made the following remarks at the start of the weekly Cabinet meeting:
“Today, we mark the week in which Tu B’Shvat – the festival of trees – occurs and there is a celebration of planting in the Land of Israel. We are bringing about a green revolution, the good green in a Middle East of parks and forests. This good green is in the State of Israel, part of this work is in Samaria, in establishing a Jewish city in Samaria; this mission was carried out by our friend Ron Nachman, who passed away. I think that everyone who knew Ron, and many here did, are familiar with his unique contribution in establishing Ariel, both in vision and deed. He gave his life to this vision and he realized it. Today we part from our dear friend who managed to build Ariel into a city of culture, with a university. I regret that he did not have additional years in which to enjoy the fruit of his labors.
Last night, I met with five US Senators, Democrats and Republicans, and I told them that the problem is not building in Ariel and it is not building in Jerusalem. The problem in the Middle East is Iran’s attempt to build nuclear weapons, and the chemical weapons in Syria and the Islamic extremism that is spreading in Africa and threatening to inundate the entire region. I told them that history will not forgive those who allow Iran to arm itself with nuclear weapons. This was, and remains, the main mission facing not only myself and the State of Israel, but the US as well.”
Posted by bonniekgoodman on January 20, 2013
http://togetherwithisrael.wordpress.com/2013/01/20/full-text-israel-political-brief-january-20-2013-pm-benjamin-netanyahus-remarks-at-the-start-of-the-weekly-cabinet-meeting-on-tu-bshvat-the-festival-of-trees/
Source: JTA, 12-25-12
The Haifa rabbinate has warned local hotels and event halls that they could lose their kashrut supervision if they hold New Year’s Eve parties on their premises….READ MORE
Posted by bonniekgoodman on December 25, 2012
http://togetherwithisrael.wordpress.com/2012/12/25/israel-brief-december-25-2012-haifa-rabbinate-forbids-new-years-eve-parties/
Source: JTA, 12-16-12
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a candle-lighting ceremony at the Western Wall that the site “will be ours forever.”….READ MORE
Posted by bonniekgoodman on December 16, 2012
http://togetherwithisrael.wordpress.com/2012/12/16/israel-political-brief-december-16-2012-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-western-wall-will-be-ours-forever/
Source: JTA, 10-3-12
An estimated 70,000 Jewish worshipers gathered at the Western Wall in Jerusalem to hear the priestly blessing….READ MORE
Posted by bonniekgoodman on October 3, 2012
http://togetherwithisrael.wordpress.com/2012/10/03/israel-brief-october-3-2012-70000-gather-at-kotel-for-priestly-blessing/
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu released the following statement this evening :
“Citizens of Israel,
Tonight, I am leaving for New York to represent the State of Israel at the United Nations.
On the issue of Iran, we are all in agreement on the goal of preventing Iran from achieving nuclear weapons.
On the day when we pray to be inscribed in the Book of Life, a platform was given to a dictatorial regime that strives, at every opportunity, to sentence us to death.
On the eve of Yom Kippur, which is sacred to the Jewish People, the Iranian tyrant – before the whole world – chose to publicly call for our disappearance.
This is a black day for those who chose to stay in the hall and listen to such slander.
In my remarks to the UN General Assembly, they will hear my response.
As the Prime Minister of Israel, the state of the Jewish People, I am working in every way so that Iran will not have nuclear weapons.
History has proven that those who have wanted to wipe us off the map have failed, as the Jewish People have overcome all obstacles.
We have set up a magnificent state, among the most advanced in the world.
Israel is a modern and strong state thanks to the strength and talents of its citizens and to our faith in the justice of our cause.
I wish you all gmar hatima tova!”
Posted by bonniekgoodman on September 26, 2012
http://togetherwithisrael.wordpress.com/2012/09/26/full-text-israel-political-brief-september-26-2012-pm-benjamin-netanyahus-statement-on-yom-kippur-united-nations-general-assembly/
Source: JTA, 9-23-12
Israel moved back to Standard Time, bringing out demonstrators in protest of the early switch due to Yom Kippur….READ MORE
Posted by bonniekgoodman on September 23, 2012
http://togetherwithisrael.wordpress.com/2012/09/23/israel-brief-september-23-2012-israel-moves-to-standard-time-amid-demonstrations/
Source: JTA, 9-16-12
Israeli President Shimon Peres in a Rosh Hashanah message called Diaspora Jews “full partners” with Israel….READ MORE
Posted by bonniekgoodman on September 16, 2012
http://togetherwithisrael.wordpress.com/2012/09/16/israel-political-brief-september-16-2012-president-shimon-peres-stresses-family-in-rosh-hashanah-message-to-diaspora-tolerance-to-israelis/
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement on Rosh Hashanah:
…
“The Jewish community has greatly enriched our country, and this holy day presents an opportunity to acknowledge their invaluable contributions to all aspects of Canada’s society.
“To all those celebrating Rosh Hashanah, Laureen and I extend our warmest wishes for a healthy, peaceful and prosperous New Year.
“L’Shanah Tovah Tikatevu.”
Posted by bonniekgoodman on September 14, 2012
http://togetherwithisrael.wordpress.com/2012/09/14/israel-political-brief-september-14-2012-canadas-prime-minister-stephen-harpers-rosh-hashanah-statement/
Source: WH, 9-13-12
As we look forward to the beginning of the Jewish High Holidays Sunday night, I want to extend my warmest wishes to all those celebrating the New Year.
This is a joyful time for millions of people around the world. But Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are also opportunities for reflection. They represent a chance to take stock of our lives and look forward to the coming year with clear eyes and renewed purpose.
In that spirit, the Jewish Tradition teaches us that one of the most important duties we have during this period is the act of reconciliation. We’re called to seek each other out and make amends for those moments when we may not have lived up to our values as well as we should.
At a time when our public discourse can too often seem harsh; when society too often focuses on what divides us instead of what unites us; I hope that Americans of all faiths can take this opportunity to reach out to those who are less fortunate; to be tolerant of our neighbors; and to recognize ourselves in one another. And as a nation, let us be mindful of those who are suffering, and renew the unbreakable bond we share with our friends and allies – including the State of Israel.
In that spirit, Michelle and I wish you and your families a sweet year full of health, happiness, and peace. L’Shana Tovah.
Posted by bonniekgoodman on September 14, 2012
http://togetherwithisrael.wordpress.com/2012/09/14/israel-political-brief-september-14-2012-president-barack-obamas-rosh-hoshanah-greeting/
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, attended a Rosh Hashanah toast with the IDF General Staff Forum and made the following remarks:
“We live in an explosive and stormy region. Its explosions and storms are increasing. The strength of the IDF has helped ensure that we are an island of stability amidst the storms. From time to time, actions have been necessary and they were carried out with great success. Israeli citizens must know what I know – that we can rely on the IDF. There are those who know how to do the work. I wish soldiers, commanders and their families a happy, sweet and safe Rosh Hashanah.”
Posted by bonniekgoodman on September 13, 2012
http://togetherwithisrael.wordpress.com/2012/09/13/israel-political-brief-september-13-2012-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-attends-rosh-hashanah-toast-with-the-idf-general-staff-forum/
Source: PMO, 9-9-12
Following are Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s remarks at the start of the weekly Cabinet meeting today:
“First of all, a Happy Rosh Hashanah [Jewish New Year] to you all. There is an apple and honey here. Let us offer to our friends from the media to take part in this beautiful custom.
I would like to congratulate Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper for taking a daring and moral step and showing leadership on Friday, and thereby sending a principled and important message to the entire world, that the dark regime cannot have nuclear weapons. I call on the entire international community, or at least on its responsible members, to follow in Canada’s determined path and set Iran moral and practical red lines, lines that will stop its race to achieve nuclear weapons.
Today, the Cabinet will discuss the issue of turning the Ariel University Center into a university. I reiterate that Ariel is an inseparable part of the State of Israel and it will remain an inseparable part of the State of Israel in any future agreement just like the other settlement blocs. Approving the university in Ariel is one of a series of actions that we are taking in order to strengthen higher education in the State of Israel. I do not think that it is sufficient that the State of Israel has seven universities; another university has not been added in decades. The population of Israel has doubled, even tripled. There is a strong desire on the part of young people in Israel to receive a university education, and I do not accept the approach of keeping a closed guild. I love to break monopolies and cartels in every field, and this one of them. If anyone has any doubt about whether or not I have a clear position on this issue, I would like to express it here. It is important that there be an additional university in Israel; it is important that there be a university in Ariel.
Last night I spoke with Noam Gershony who won a gold medal at the Paralympics. Noam encapsulates the image of the State of Israel and its story. He represents the victory of the spirit over all obstacles and I think that his personal story strongly expresses this. Noam was wounded in battle for the State of Israel. Yesterday he won a medal, a gold medal, on behalf of the State of Israel. He did not see this as just his own personal achievement, he saw it as a personal achievement for all of us, and he moved all of us when he wept to the national anthem. On behalf of the Government and the citizens of Israel, I salute you Noam Gershony.
This is the last Cabinet meeting of the outgoing year and this is the fourth time that The Cabinet is marking the start of a new year – this being an unusual event in and of itself over past decades. It broadcasts government stability, which is very important for the State of Israel at all times, but especially now. I would like to draw your attention to the fact that the outgoing year was full of activity and this is my opportunity to thank the ministers for their great work on behalf of the people of the State of Israel.
We did many things together and if I were to now detail the Government’s actions, those which it carried out and those which it approved, I would need many hours. Therefore, I have chosen to point out one event per [Hebrew] month in order to note the progress of the State of Israel over the past year.
And so, in Tishrei, the Cabinet approved the agreement to bring Gilad Shalit back home after over five years in captivity.
In Cheshvan, we dedicated the new medical school in Safed, after 37 years in which no new medical school had been dedicated in Israel. We thereby marked a turning point, not only in medicine, but in jumpstarting the Galilee and Safed. By the way, Israel is ranked sixth in the world on the Global Health Index, which was issued recently.
In Kislev, we approved the comprehensive plan to deal with infiltrators, the results of which are already being seen in the field.
In Tevet, tax benefits – that we approved – took effect for working parents and young children – representing a net addition of hundreds of shekels per month to salaries.
In Shevat, we approved the construction of a rail line to Eilat as part of the Government’s plan to invest billions of shekels in infrastructures, highways, railways and interchanges.
In Adar, I traveled to the AIPAC conference in the US to continue explaining and emphasizing the dangers posed to the world by Iran’s arming itself with nuclear weapons. Since then, all of our predictions have come true, one after the other.
In Nisan, the Bank of Israel determined that the Israeli economy grew by 4.7% in the previous year, an impressive achievement given the global economic crisis. I see the difficulties that are yet before us, but I think that if we continue to manage the economy in a responsible manner, we will continue to be above the other economies. By the way, in the same month, Israelis were ranked fourth on the global happiness index.
In Iyar, thanks to the reform we approved, new operators entered the cellular telephone market and prices of cellular calls nosedived, leading to a savings of hundreds of shekels a month for each family.
In Sivan, we expanded free dental care to include children up to age 12. As of the present, over two million free dental treatments have been given to children. This is a very significant achievement.
In Tammuz, we launched an international campaign on Israeli innovations in protecting the environment. This was mainly abroad; it wasn’t seen so much in Israel. But via this campaign we showed the world our breakthrough technologies in the field of environmental protection.
In Av, we completed the construction of over 200 kilometers of the southern security fence and we brought about a 90% decline in the number of infiltrators crossing the border. Soon we will complete the fence in its entirety.
And in [the current month of] Elul, we opened the school year in grand fashion – free education for children from age 3, a savings of NIS 800 per month for hundreds of thousands of parents.
I have not pointed out all of the things that the Government has done, but I think the things I have mentioned reflect the scope of a great achievement. This was a year in which we strengthened the security of the citizens of Israel in the face of the regional unrest around us and in which we kept our economy safe from the collapses that characterized other economies, and I am certain, and I promise, that in the coming year we will continue to achieve results for the citizens of the State of Israel.
Again, a Happy Rosh Hashanah to you all.
May it be a sweet year, a year of achievements, a good year.”
Posted by bonniekgoodman on September 9, 2012
http://togetherwithisrael.wordpress.com/2012/09/09/full-text-israel-political-brief-september-9-2012-pm-benjamin-netanyahus-remarks-at-the-start-of-the-cabinet-meeting-rosh-hashanah-greetings/
Source: JTA, 7-29-12
Reports that Jewish extremists would create “provocations” spurred Jerusalem police to close the Temple Mount to Jewish visitors on Tisha b’Av….READ MORE
Posted by bonniekgoodman on July 29, 2012
http://togetherwithisrael.wordpress.com/2012/07/29/israel-brief-july-29-2012-reports-of-provocations-spur-tisha-bav-closing-of-temple-mount-to-jews/
Israel’s Independence Day is a time for us to consider what makes Israel truly unique.
Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu released a special greeting on Wednesday, in honor of Israel’s 64th Independence Day.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Greeting to Diaspora Communities for Israel’s 64th Independence Day
Source: Israel Minister of Foreign Affairs, 4-25-12
Israel’s Independence Day is a time for us to consider what makes Israel truly unique.
Israel is unique in restoring sovereignty, and the capacity for self-defense, to a people who had been stateless and powerless for 2,000 years.
Israel is unique in ingathering to an ancestral homeland an exiled people who had been scattered around the globe.
Israel is unique in having become a global technological power despite the fact that we face threats faced by no other nation on earth.
Israel is unique in the Middle East for having a vibrant, liberal democracy where women are equal, minorities are free and where all are subject to the rule of law.
But Israel is unique in one other important way: we are unique in having such passionate friends, Jews and non-Jews alike, for whom the well-being, security and future of our country are so important. This passionate support, along with Israel’s strong army, free economy and dynamic society, is the pillar of our national strength.
And this Independence Day, I want to thank the tens of millions of friends of Israel throughout the world for their unwavering support for the one and only Jewish state.
Sincerely,
Benjamin Netanyahu
Posted by bonniekgoodman on April 25, 2012
http://togetherwithisrael.wordpress.com/2012/04/25/full-text-israel-political-brief-april-25-2012-yom-haatzmaut-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-independence-day-messages/
Remembrance Day for the Fallen Soldiers and Victims of Terror has ended, and Independence Day has begun, with fireworks displays going off countrywide.
The celebration of Israel’s 64th birthday began with the traditional ceremony at Har Herzl in Jerusalem. The main speaker at the ceremony was Knesset Speaker MK Reuven Rivlin.
Rivlin’s speech began with a mention of the external threats Israel faces but centered on what he said was an internal enemy which threatens Israel’s future – an enemy which he identified as “the extremists” and zealotry on all sides of the political and social spectrum.
“The struggle against those who set mosques on fire is not between leftists and settlers,” he said, “it is a struggle against zealots.”
“The struggle against those who spit in the face of an eight-year-old girlis not a struggle between secular people and haredim, but a struggle against marginal extremists. The struggle against those who team up with our worst enemies, who fight against Israel’s right to exist, is not a struggle between left and right or between Jews and Arabs, but a struggle against zealotry and zealots. The struggle against those who see women’s singing in the IDF as ‘an hour of destruction,’ a decree over whose trespass death is preferable, is not a struggle between secular Zionism and religious Zionism. This is a struggle against zealotry.”
Rivlin said that he does not fear the residents of Itamar or Migron, “who are faithful to the Land of Israel and love it,” nor does he fear those who oppose the settlement enterprise. “I fear the zealots,” he repeated. “I fear the extremism. I fear those who do not hesitate to break the rules in the name of the righteousness of their path; those who do not fear the destruction of the Third Temple.”
A large fireworks display beginning at 11:30 p.m. will end Wednesday evening’s Yom Ha’atzmaut festivities in Jerusalem’s Independence Park.
Music, singing and dancing will be the main activities in the capital after Israel marks the end of memorial Day for Fallen Soldiers and Terror victims at 7:45 p.m.and begins to celebrate 64 years of an independent State of Israel for the first time in almost 2,000 years.
Music popular in the religious-Zionist community will be featured at the HaMashbir stage, at King George Street in downtown Jerusalem. Bnei Akiva and the Ezra movement will dance, and the Pirchei Yerushalayim Band will appear.
Bands will perform at Kikar HaHatulot, and music oriented for the younger generation will take place at the pedestrian mall at Hillel Street, next to Ben Yehuda Street. Student associations helped program the activities.
Opposite the Old City Walls at Mamilla, students have organized DJ entertainment, with entrance by paid tickets.
Israeli folk dancing and a songfest will be featured at the stage at Safra Square-City Hall from 10:30 p.m. until 3:30 a.m.
The Day of Remembrance for slain IDF soldiers will begin Tuesday evening and be followed by Israel’s 64th Independence Day. This list of events was compiled by Anglo-List.Com. These are not Torah-oriented events.
Tel Aviv
Main Event, Rabin Square, 9:00 p.m. – “Only in Israel” with the participation of military bands. Clips from different periods in Israel’s history will be screened on giant screens and fireworks will paint the sky. With: Momi Levy, Miri Aloni, Shula Chen, and dozens of dancers, Tel Aviv youth and more. The evening will close with a performance by “Quartet” – with Shem Tov Levy, Alon Olearchik, Shlomo Yidov and Efraim Shamir.
Atzmadoodes – Children’s Independence Day events at the Performing Arts Center at 8:30 p.m. – Roni Superstar, Tel Aviv Youth Band, the entertainment show” Katzefet VeToot ,” fire dances, juggling clowns, aerial acrobatics performances and fireworks.
Folk Dancing – Plaza Performing Arts Center, 11:00 p.m – dancing into the night with the best; Sarah Aviv and Gadi Biton combining instrumental and vocal performance and Tel Aviv University Dance troupe.
Park Davidoff, Jaffa, 8:30 p.m. – Michelle Cohen Music School program, Alon de Loco with the LoCo Land show accompanied by musicians and dancers, Woody G, Yaron Ramati, local bands and more.
Haifa
Moriah Blvd: Din Din Aviv, Carolina, Erez Lev Ari, Rami Kleinstein, Rita & Ethnix
Kiryat Sprinzak: Michal Tzafir, Shlomi Shabat, Idan Yaniv
Kiryat Shmuel: Kobi Machat, Meir Banai, Yishai Lapidot and the “Of Simchas” band
Central Carmel: Rami Kleinstein, Shiri Maimon and Shimon Buskila
Neve Shaanan: Michal Tzafir, Rami Kleinstein, Shlomi Shabat, Mooki
Kiryat Haim: Shiri Maimon, Shimon Buskila, Ethnix, Josh, Mooki and Eyal Golan
Kiryat Eliezer: Russian artists and folk music
Jerusalem
Main Stage (Kikar Hahatulot).
The Even Yerushalmit band, Adir Getz, Yaniv Barmeli and Itay Moyal, Subliminal and Momi Levi, Yossi Azulai, Keren Peles. Hosted by Elad Amedi.
Stage at the Hillel Pedestrian Street – Street Party for the Young.
In collaboration with the Students Associations, young in the center:
DJ Ron Izraeli – Hebrew party
DJ Idan Ben Hamo – Funk party
DJ Stato – House anthems 2012
Main performance: Adir Getz
Independence Day opposite the walls at the Alrov Mamilla Avenue:
For students and youngsters – entrance with payment | At 22:00
DJ Itzik Dadia
DJ Shachar Ud
Tickets can be purchased at the Students Association and at Telephone: 073-7073617
Hamashbir Stage for the Religious Zionist Public:
Ezra Movement, Bnei Akiva and more
The Ruach Zfonit band in an exhilarating dancing event
Aaron Razel
The Pirchei Yerushalayim Band
DJ Hanania Ohana
Singing independence at the Safra Square stage:
Arbaa Bemol Band with Aaron Ferrera and Yael Badash
Israeli Rock at the Square: a tribute to the founders if Israeli Rock since the days of the state’s establishment: Arik Einstein, Shalom Hanoch, Matti Caspi, Shlomo Artzi, Gidi Gov, Danny Sanderson and more.
Dancing Independence at the Safra Square stage: from 11:30 p.m – 3:30 a.m.
A mass dancing event, Israeli and other folk dances, with leading dance guides: Avner Naim, Haim Tzemach, Boaz Cohen, Mimi Cogan, Gidi Eiko.
00:30: Fireworks display above the Experimental High School, Independence Park
Rehovot
Main Stage: Liran Danino, David Deor, Dana International, Youth choir and dancers led by Itai Segev
Park Hameginim: Matti Caspi, Gabi Shushan, Shiri and Uzi Fuchs
Hershonson Stage.: Margalit Tzanani, Benny Elbaz , Gabi and Micky Nes, Shlomit Bouhnik, Moran Kriti, Tamir Lidanil, Nati Chen and “The Independence Ride” – a 15 km. bicycle ride on Thursday morning at 9:00 from Sportec city. For information and registration: 08-9392239.
Netanya
Winter Lake Park: Roni Superstar, Berry Sakharof, Hadag Nahash, Beit Habubot, DJ Erez Shitrit
Kikar Ha’atzmaut: Danny Sanderson, Moshik Afia.
The World Zionist Organization’s Department for Activities in Israel & Countering Antisemitism is offering a new service which allows users to send postcards with Israeli flags and other pro-Israel images via the internet. The website allows a user to select and email postcards with images of Israeli flags, nature scenes and Zionist leaders such as Zev Jabotinsky, Theodor Herzl, Menachem Begin, and David Ben Gurion.
Posted by bonniekgoodman on April 25, 2012
http://togetherwithisrael.wordpress.com/2012/04/25/israel-brief-april-25-2012-israel-celebrates-64th-birthday/
Thousands of people attended on Tuesday evening the “Remembering, Singing and Telling” event, which was held at the Sultan’s Pool in Jerusalem in honor of Memorial Day. The evening was initiated by the Zochrim organization.
The emotional evening involved representatives of bereaved families who got up on stage to tell their loved ones’ stories. The evening also included remarks by Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu, Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat, the Chief Rabbi of Tel Aviv Rav Yisrael Lau, Nobel laureate Prof. Israel Aumann and other public representatives.
In addition, there were performances by some of the best artists in Israel including Udi Davidi, Gali Atari, Dudu Aharon, Yishai Levy, Yishai Lapidot, Mosh Ben-Ari, Rami Kleinstein, Shay Gabso and Sarit Hadad. The singers climbed the stage one by one and performed songs in the spirit of Memorial Day and were joined by the crowd.
A few minutes before 8 p.m. local time, when the one-minute siren marking the beginning of Memorial Day was heard, the audience lit 6,000 electronic candles in memory of Israel’s fallen.
Posted by bonniekgoodman on April 25, 2012
http://togetherwithisrael.wordpress.com/2012/04/25/israel-brief-april-25-2012-yom-hazikaron-remembering-singing-and-telling-of-israels-fallen-soldiers-event-on-memorial-day/
When Memorial Day sirens sound, “We will all become one family,” Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu said as Israel remembers fallen soldiers and terror victims. A one-minute siren sounded at 8 p.m. Tuesday and a two-minute siren will sound at 11 a.m. Wednesday.
The Prime Minister recalled his brother Yoni, who was the commander and the only IDF casualty in the daring raid on Entebbe to rescue more than 100 hostages on a plane hijacked to Uganda.
“Like you, my dear brothers and sisters, on every Memorial Day I think of my dear fallen brother; I think about my parents who lost their beloved son, and about my brother Iddo, who lost his eldest brother,” he said.
Prime Minister Netanyahu also noted comrades who died when he was serving in the armed forces.
“I remember Chaim Ben Yona from Kibbutz Yehiam,” said the Prime Minister. “Chaim was an outstanding young man. He fell next to me while we were crossing the Suez Canal in the dead of night.
“I also remember my fellow soldiers Zohar Ben Linik and David Ben Hamo, both remarkable fellows who were killed during preparations for a military operation, shortly after we enlisted together to the Special Forces unit Sayeret Matkal. I escorted Zohar and David, who were seriously injured, to the hospital, where they were both pronounced dead….
“David Ben Hamo died in my arms on the drive from the training ground to the hospital…. When they say that it’s the best ones who fall, they mean people like Chaim and Zohar and David.
“Decades later, I visited David’s home in Beer Sheva, and I went into his room. The room was left exactly as he had left it the last time he was there. For us, the bereaved families, time stops as soon as we get the terrible news. A brutal sword rips our lives in two, and our lives will never be the same.
In a separate message to bereaved families, Prime Minister Netanyahu said, “It was the heartfelt duty of our dear ones that led them to face the enemy…. Today, the People of Israel lay aside disagreements and stand as one beside you.”
Remembrance Day is immediately followed by Independence Day – Yom HaAtzmaut. The Prime Minister remarked that thanks to Israel’s soldiers, especially those who fell, the State of Israel was reestablished.
“Thanks to them, the State of Israel will continue to develop and prosper, and thanks to them the members of the younger generation will also be able to live their lives in security and tranquility,” he told the families.
Posted by bonniekgoodman on April 25, 2012
http://togetherwithisrael.wordpress.com/2012/04/25/israel-political-brief-april-25-2012-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-when-sirens-sound-we-are-one-family-in-yom-hazikaron-remarks/
“Terrorist kills, and we build,” Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu told relatives of terror victims at the Mount Herzl Military Cemetery Wednesday.
“The atrocities of terror against our people know no moral bounds or political borders,” said on Memorial Day for Fallen Soldiers and Terror Victims.
“The cruelty and hate of terrorists is insatiable,” he added.” If there is one thing that is common to all of these terrorists, it is that they want to erase the People of Israel from the earth and want to uproot our people from our land, the Land of Israel. They will not succeed.:”
The military cemetery is located in Jerusalem, which the Prime Minister said is “our united city and is the holy city of the People of Israel for generations.”
“We will not stop building and developing, and we will continue…to live, grow and let our children and grandchildren reside here,” he continued.
History will overtake our enemies. I know the price has been heavy for you, and I express my appreciation of the people of Israel for your steadfastness and for the heroism of your loved ones.”
Noting that “determination is rooted in our people,” Prime Minister Netanyahu mentioned the victims of terrorists who killed the five Fogel family members last year in Itamar in Samaria and a rabbi and three Jews in Toulouse earlier this year.
Yossi Mendelevich, whose 13-year-old son Yuval was killed in a bus terror attack in Haifa, took the occasion to criticize the government for freeing more than 1,000 terrorists and security prisoners for the return of soldier Gilad Shalit from captivity after ore than five years.
He said the exchange divided the public. “Is it reasonable that a terrorist responsible for the murder of an entire family will be goes free?” he asked. “Is it reasonable that the terrorist responsible for the atrocious slaughter in a hotel can celebrate with his family?”
Posted by bonniekgoodman on April 25, 2012
http://togetherwithisrael.wordpress.com/2012/04/25/israel-political-brief-april-25-2012-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-on-mt-herzl-military-cemetery-terrorists-kill-we-build/
Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu, Knesset Speaker Reuven Rivlin, and Israel’s Chief Rabbis on Tuesday attended a flag-lowering ceremony in Jerusalem as Memorial Day is set to begin.
“For bereaved families, time stops when you get the terrible news… it cuts your life in two: what was before, and what will never be again,” Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu told more than 200 soldiers and bereaved families gathered for the Yad Lebanim Memorial for the Fallen in Israel’s Wars.
“When you hear the siren tonight, we will turn into one family, and the citizens of Israel will be united in our remembrance,” Netanyahu said, recalling his own brother – Yoni Netanyahu – who was killed during the 1976 Entebbe rescue operation.
Yad Lebanim (“A Memorial for the Sons”) is the organization that supports bereaved families in cooperation with the Defense Ministry and official government bodies. The Jerusalem memorial, located near the government quarter, is the central memorial for soldiers killed in action in the capital.
Memorial Day for Israel’s fallen soldiers and victims of terror will officially commence Tuesday night at 20:00 local time when the siren at the Western Wall is sounded for one minute of silent remembrance.
The ceremony there will be attended by President Shimon Peres, IDF Chief of Staff Benny Gantz, and many families bereaved by war and terror.
Another siren will sound at 11 a.m., bringing the entire country to a standstill in memory of the fallen soldiers and those killed by acts of terror. Memorial events will take place at military cemeteries, at schools and places of work.
The number who have fallen in IDF service and in terror attacks in Israel since the First Aliya in 1860 presently stands at 22,993.
During its War of Independence the Jewish state lost 6,373 of its people, about 1% of its population, in the war. Of those 2477 were civilians. Some 120 foreign nationals, tourists, and workers were also killed during Israel’s War of Independence.
Last year, 15 Israelis were killed in hostilities. A total of 126 soldiers died while on active duty with the IDF during 2011, as well.
A ceremony at the Knesset this evening will include the reading of “memory poems” by the Knesset Speaker, assorted government ministers, and Israel’s police commissioner, Yohanan Danino.
The poems are written by the bereaved families and friends of Israel’s fallen soldiers and victims of terror.
The flag will remain at half-staff until sundown on Wednesday, when Yom Haatzmaut – Israeli Independence Day – begins.
As Israel prepares to begin its Yom Hazikaron [Memorial Day] observance on Tuesday evening many bereaved families are reminded their lives contain a vacuum….
Yom Hazikaron is not only the day on which Israel honors its fallen soldiers, but also those killed in terror attacks by those seeking the destruction of the Jewish state.
Memorial services are held in cemetaries, government buildings, military bases, schools, and private venues to honor the dead and remind the Jewish nation of the cost of freedom and national sovereignty in its ancestral homeland.
Beginning at sundown on Tuesday, Yom Hazikaron will continue until sundown on Wednesday, when Israel’s 64th Independence Day celebration will begin.
Posted by bonniekgoodman on April 24, 2012
http://togetherwithisrael.wordpress.com/2012/04/24/israel-political-brief-april-24-2012-yom-hazikaron-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-attends-yad-lebanim-memorial-flag-lowering-ceremony-in-jerusalem/
Source: PMO, 4-24-12
photo by GPO
Today, the State of Israel lowers its flag to half-mast in honor of the fallen soldiers and the bereaved families. Like you, my dear brothers and sisters, on every Memorial Day I think of my dear fallen brother; I think about my parents who lost their beloved son, and about my brother Iddo, who lost his eldest brother. And like many other citizens, I think about my brothers in arms who fell besides me, who are no more.
I remember Haim Ben Yona from Kibbutz Yehiam. Haim was an outstanding young man. He fell next to me while we were crossing the Suez Canal in the dead of night.
I also remember my fellow soldiers Zohar Ben Linik and David Ben Hamo, both remarkable fellows who were killed during preparations for a military operation, shortly after we enlisted together to the Special Forces unit Sayeret Matkal. I escorted Zohar and David, who were seriously injured, to the hospital, where they were both pronounced dead.
Zohar was good looking, multi-talented and vibrant, an exceptional person. David Ben Hamo died in my arms on the drive from the training ground to the hospital. He came from Be’er Sheva; he was highly intelligent, a gifted athlete and an excellent student at the Boyer High School. He had a nobility and gentleness that appealed to anyone who met him. When they say that it’s the best ones who fall, they mean people like Haim and Zohar and David.
Decades later, I visited David’s home in Beer Sheva, and I went into his room. The room was left exactly as he had left it the last time he was there. For us, the bereaved families, time stops as soon as we get the terrible news. A brutal sword rips our lives in two, and our lives will never be the same.
When the siren goes off this evening, we will all become one family. The citizens of Israel will grieve singly, but will be united in remembrance. They will bow their heads respectfully in memory of those who fell and sacrificed their lives to defend our people. It is thanks to them that we were given our independence and the privilege to live securely in our country.
May their memory be blessed.
מכובדי יו”ר הכנסת, ראובן ריבלין,
המשנה לנשיא ביהמ”ש העליון, השופט אליעזר ריבלין,
הרב הראשי לישראל, הרב שלמה עמר,
הרב הראשי לישראל, הרב יונה מצגר,
סגן יו”ר הכנסת, חה”כ דני דנון,
ראש עיריית ירושלים, ניר ברקת,
מנכ”ל משרד הביטחון, אודי שני,
מנכ”ל משרד הרווחה, נחום איצקוביץ’,
אלופי צה”ל,
יו”ר ארגון יד לבנים הארצי, אלי בן-שם,
יו”ר ארגון יד לבנים בירושלים, אלי דהן,
יו”ר ארגון אלמנות ויתומי צה”ל, הגברת נאווה שהם,
יו”ר האגודה למען החייל, אביגדור קהלני,
מתנדבי משרד הביטחון,
מפקדים וחיילים,
אבל מעל הכל – משפחות שכולות יקרות,
מדינת ישראל מורידה היום את הדגל לחצי התורן לאות הזדהות עם הנופלים ועם אחיהם, בני המשפחות השכולות. כמוכם, אחיי ואחיותיי, בכל יום זיכרון אני חושב על יקירי שנפל, אני חושב על הוריי שאיבדו בן אהוב ועל אחי עידו שאיבד את אחיו הבכור. כמו אזרחים רבים, אני נזכר בחבריי לנשק שנפלו לצידי, שאינם עוד.
אני נזכר בחיים בן יונה, בן קיבוץ יחיעם. חיים, שהיה משכמו ומעלה, שנפל לידי בקרב אש כשחצינו באישון ליל את תעלת סואץ. אני נזכר גם בחבריי לנשק, זהר ליניק ודוד בן חמו המופלאים, שנפלו בזמן ההכנות למבצע צבאי, זמן קצר לאחר שהתגייסנו יחד לסיירת מטכ”ל. ליוויתי את זהר ודוד הפצועים אנושות בדרך לבית החולים, שם נקבע מותם.
זהר היה יפה תואר, רב כישרונות, תוסס, אדם למופת. דוד בן חמו נפטר בזרועותיי במהלך הנסיעה משטח האימונים לבית החולים. הוא בא משכונה בבאר שבע, הוא היה נער מחונן, אתלט מוכשר, תלמיד מצטיין בפנימיית בויאר בירושלים. הייתה בו, בדוד, אצילות ועדינות ששבו את ליבם של כל אלה שהכירו אותו. כשאומרים שהטובים ביותר הם אלה שנופלים, מתכוונים לאנשים כמו חיים, זהר ודוד.
כשביקרתי עשרות שנים לאחר מכן בביתו של דוד בבאר שבע, נכנסתי לחדרו. החדר נשאר בדיוק כפי שהיה כשדוד עזב אותו בפעם האחרונה. עבורנו, המשפחות השכולות, הזמן נעצר ברגע שנתקבלה הבשורה המרה. חרב אכזרית ביתרה את חיינו לשניים ומה שהיה לפני לא ישוב עוד.
ביום הזה האומה כולה עוצרת מלכת ונעמדת דום. כשתישמע הצפירה הערב נהפוך כולנו למשפחה אחת. אזרחי ישראל יתייחדו ביגון ויתאחדו בזיכרון. הם ירכינו ראשם בהוקרה לאלה שנפלו ושהקריבו את חייהם להגנת עמנו. בזכותם ניתנה לנו עצמאותנו והזכות לחיות בביטחון בארצנו.
יהיה זכרם ברוך
Posted by bonniekgoodman on April 24, 2012
http://togetherwithisrael.wordpress.com/2012/04/24/full-text-israel-political-brief-april-24-2012-pm-benjamin-netanyahus-speech-at-yom-hazikaron-memorial-day-service/
Obama pays tribute to Holocaust victims on Remembrance Day: President Barack Obama paid tribute to victims of the Holocaust on Thursday, saying that “on this day, and all days, we must do more than remember. We must resolve that “never again” is more than an empty slogan…. – JPost, 4-19-12
On this Holocaust Remembrance Day, I join people of all faiths across the United States, in Israel and around the world in paying tribute to all who suffered in the Shoah—a horrific crime without parallel in human history. We honor the memory of six million innocent men, women and children who were sent to their deaths simply because of their Jewish faith. We stand in awe of those who fought back, in the ghettos and in the camps, against overwhelming odds. And in the year of the 100th anniversary of the birth of Raoul Wallenberg, we are humbled by the rescuers who refused to be bystanders to evil.
On this day, and all days, we must do more than remember. We must resolve that “never again” is more than an empty slogan. As individuals, we must guard against indifference in our hearts and recognize ourselves in our fellow human beings. As societies, we must stand against ignorance and anti-Semitism, including those who try to deny the Holocaust. As nations, we must do everything we can to prevent and end atrocities in our time. This is the work I will advance when I join survivors and their families at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum on Monday. This must be the work of us all, as nations and peoples who cherish the dignity of every human being.
Posted by bonniekgoodman on April 19, 2012
http://togetherwithisrael.wordpress.com/2012/04/19/full-text-israel-political-brief-april-19-2012-president-barack-obamas-statement-on-yom-hashoah-holocaust-remembrance-day/
Source: JTA, 4-18-12
Israel’s prime minister and president invoked the Iranian threat during remarks at the annual Yom Hashoah ceremony at Yad Vashem.
Israel began the observance of Holocaust Martyrs’ and Heroes’ Remembrance Day with the national ceremony Wednesday night at the Yad Vashem memorial. Yom Hashoah continues through sundown on Thursday.
“I believe in our ability to defend ourselves,” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said during the ceremony. “People who dismiss the Iranian threat as a whim or an exaggeration have learned nothing from the Holocaust. To cower from speaking the uncomfortable truth – that today like then, there are those who want to destroy millions of Jewish people – that is to belittle the Holocaust, that is to offend its victims and that is to ignore the lessons.”
President Shimon Peres said, “Today humanity has no choice, we must learn from the lessons of the Holocaust and stand strong against existential threats before it is too late. Iran is at the heart of this threat. She is the center of terror, she represents a threat to world peace.There is no reason to undermine Israel’s capacities to face this threat, whether visible or hidden.”
Both leaders also expressed their sorrow at the death of Israeli soldier Hila Bezaleli, who was killed earlier in the day when lighting collapsed on a stage on Mount Herzl during a rehearsal for a Memorial Day ceremony scheduled for next week.
Rabbi Shlomo Amar, the chief Sephardi rabbi of Israel, intoned the Mourner’s Kaddish.
The central theme of the 2012 Yom Hashoah observance is “My Brother’s Keeper: Jewish Solidarity During the Holocaust.”
At the national ceremony Wednesday, which was broadcast on all Israeli television channels, survivors lit six torches representing the 6 million Jews killed in the Holocaust. Another ceremony will be held Thursday morning following the sounding of a siren for two minutes to honor the 6 million Jewish victims of the Holocaust.
On Yom Hashoah in Israel, places of entertainment are closed and Holocaust themed-movies and documentaries are shown on all television channels. Memorial ceremonies are held throughout the country.
Posted by bonniekgoodman on April 18, 2012
http://togetherwithisrael.wordpress.com/2012/04/18/israel-political-brief-april-18-2012-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-president-shimon-peres-invoke-iran-threat-during-yom-hashoah-ceremony-at-yad-vashem/
Former IDF soldier’s family to truly celebrate meaning of freedom, as Gilad joins Passover seder for first time after over 5 years in Hamas captivity
Source: YNet News, 4-5-12
For the first time after six years, Gilad Shalit will sit down with his family for the traditional Passover seder on Friday. The Shalit family had previously refrained from celebrating the Jewish holiday as long as Gilad was still held captive by Hamas.
“This year we feel true freedom,” Noam Shalit, father of the former captive soldier, told Ynet on Thursday.
Related stories:
During Gilad’s time in captivity, Shalit campaign activists staged Passover seders outside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu‘s home in Jerusalem. In 2011, the Shalit family spent the seder in Jerusalem by chaining themselves to the PM’s Residence compound, while many Israeli citizens left an empty chair for Gilad at their seder table.
According to Noam Shalit, this year the festivities will truly be rejoiceful and include the extended family, as Gilad’s grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins will all join them for Passover.
“We’re preparing just like any other home in Israel,” he added.
Zvi Shalit recieves special Haggadah (Photo: Israeli Police)
“It feels good. It’s the first time since Gilad was kidnapped when we can really celebrate the holiday. This time it truly feels like a feast of freedom.”
Despite many attempts made by rabbis and different organizations over the years, Gilad never received any of the Passover packages his family made for him during his time in captivity. “He only knew about the holiday from what he heard on the radio, but he never received matzah or wine to prepare a Passover seder,” Noam explained.
The Shalit family received a special Haggadah for the upcoming holiday, which includes photographs of Gilad from his IDF service, from the day he was released from Hamas captivity and pictures from the campaign to free him. The Haggadah was given to Gilad’s grandfather, Zvi Shalit, by Police Operations Division Chief Nissim Mor.
Posted by bonniekgoodman on April 5, 2012
http://togetherwithisrael.wordpress.com/2012/04/05/israel-brief-april-5-2012-shalit-family-prepares-for-passover-with-gilad/
Source: JTA, 4-5-12
President Obama will host a seder at the White House on the first night of Passover.
Obama’s seder on Friday night will continue a tradition that started in 2008, when he was a presidential candidate on the campaign trail in Pennsylvania and he joined a small group of staff members at an impromptu seder.
On Thursday, the president issued a video Passover message.
“The story of the Exodus is thousands of years old, but it remains as relevant as ever,” he said. “Throughout our history, there are those who have targeted the Jewish people for harm — a fact we were so painfully reminded of just a few weeks ago in Toulouse.
“Michelle and I are proud to celebrate with friends here at home and around the world, including those in the State of Israel,” Obama said, wishing the Jewish community a “Chag sameach.”
Starting tomorrow night, the Jewish community in the United States, Israel, and throughout the world will come together to celebrate the holiday of Passover.
President and Mrs. Obama will join them, continuing their tradition of hosting a small Seder at the White House. By now, the story of how that tradition began has been told and retold, but in the spirit of Passover, I’ll tell it again: In April of 2008, the President and his staff were on the trail in Pennsylvania in the midst of a long primary campaign. Weary from a long day of work and away from their families, a small group of staffers came together to hold an impromptu Seder. When then-Senator Obama got wind of the Seder, he gathered some other staff and friends and decided to join. At the end of the Seder, the President followed the traditional “Next year in Jerusalem” declaration with a pledge of his own – “Next year in the White House.” Each year since, he has followed through on that promise. This year, he also added a new touch, a video message to Jews everywhere wishing them Chag Sameach as they continue their own traditions or start new ones this Passover.
Posted by bonniekgoodman on April 5, 2012
http://togetherwithisrael.wordpress.com/2012/04/05/israel-political-brief-april-5-2012-president-barack-obama-posts-passover-message-to-host-seder/
By Pete Souza, AP
When President Obama and Jewish guests celebrate the Passover Seder ceremonial meal on Friday, they’ll read from ‘The Maxwell House Haggadah,’ a handbook of rituals, commentary and prayers published as a freebie by Maxwell House.
By Oded Ezer
Two acclaimed Jewish novelists and an Israeli artist known for his illustrations with typography collaborated on ‘The New American Haggadah,’ a book of prayers, stories and scholarly commentary to serve as the text for the Passover Seder dinner.
Source: USA Today, 4-5-12
Friday night, when President Obama joins Jewish guests for a Passover Seder in the White House, he’ll be holding a ritual handbook that’s in millions of U.S. Jewish homes — the Maxwell House Haggadah.
Yes, the coffee company publishes America’s most long standing and popular booklet (haggadah) of prayers, reading and commentary for the ceremonial meal ) in which Jews retell the story of the exodus from Egypt — freedom from bondage at God’s hand.
Decades ago, Maxwell House wanted to convey that its product was kosher, acceptable under Jewish dietary laws, for the holiday. Jewish homes have piles of these haggadahs, pulled out of the cupboard once a year.
But many also have scholarly and beautiful historic, political and artistic haggadahs as well. One of the core teachings of the holiday is that the story of freedom must be told in the present tense, as if every generation was personally experiencing oppression and liberation. Weaving in current events and issues, supplementing the readings and embellishing the art of the hagaddah is a tradition centuries old and as new as this week.
On Wednesday, the White House and Department of Agriculture teamed with Bend the Arc: A Jewish Partnership for Justice, to sponsor a Seder at the Agriculture headquarters where the haggadah theme was Food and Justice. On the Seder plate, where each of the foods symbolizes a part of the story and the theology of Passover, they added a tomato. The haggadah explained it was
… in honor of migrant farm workers everywhere who have demonstrated extraordinary courage and persistence in securing a better life for farm workers.
Posted by bonniekgoodman on April 5, 2012
http://togetherwithisrael.wordpress.com/2012/04/05/jewish-news-brief-april-5-2012-the-maxwell-house-haggadah-popular-passover-handbook-goes-to-white-house-seder-table/
As millions prepare to celebrate Passover holiday, new survey reveals that majority of Israeli Jews will celebrate seder, refrain from eating chametz, while 42% believe law is redundant
Source: YNet News, 4-5-12
Passover is considered to be an especially difficult holiday, yet a new survey reveals – even Israel‘s secular population does not want to give it up. A Ynet-Gesher survey indicated that a clear majority of Israel’s Jewish population, from every sector of society, are meticulous in not eating chametz on the seven days of Passover.
Moreover, a majority of the population believes that the often criticized Chametz Law, which forbids stores, restaurants, offices and public places from displaying or selling chametz, is necessary.
The survey was conducted by Panels Ltd. among 519 respondents – a national sample that represents Israel’s adult Jewish population with a maximum sampling error of 4.4%.
Every Passover sees the question come up again on the public agenda: Would it have been better to leave the matter of chametz in the hands of the population rather than the legislative authority?
According to the survey, 56% of the Israeli public believes that the law is needed both for the Jewish character of the State (34%) and in order to maintain the status quo between the religious and secular citizens of Israel (22%).
In contrast, 42% believe the law is redundant: Some think “it needs to be a social norm that stems from mutual respect (24%) while others believe the individual’s freedom must be respected and that chametz should be allowed on Passover (19%).
The survey revealed that some 70% of Israel’s secular Jews believe that the law is unnecessary, with an equal number naming social norms and individual rights as the reason for their response.
Meanwhile, 76% of traditional respondents, 83% of modern orthodox and 95% of religious respondents believe the law is necessary.
When asked if they believed the Chametz Law influenced relations between the secular and religious citizens in Israel, 38% said it hurts the rights of the individual (the majority of the secular population), 27% said it contributed to joint relations as it maintained the Jewish identity in Israel, and 28% believe the law has little influence either way.
The survey also revealed that when the Passover holiday begins on Friday night, millions throughout the country will be celebrating – in accordance with the Jewish traditions. Some 61% of respondents declared that they would be having a full-fledged seder with all the trimmings (with the majority of this group made up of traditional and religious Israelis).
Some 33% said they would have a festive family dinner during which parts of the Haggadah would be read (secular Israelis). Some 4% would make do with a regular family dinner and 1% do not feel the need to mark the holiday in any way (an additional 1% stated that they had not yet decided on how to spend the holiday).
When asked whether they would eat chametz in a public place in front of religious or traditional people, 59% said the question was redundant as they do not eat chametz throughout the holiday week, 32% declared they would avoid it – so as not to offend anyone.
Some 6% said they would eat chametz but only “privately so that no one sees,” and 2% would not consider anyone’s feelings; 1% said they had no opinion on the matter.
Gesher Executive Director Ilan Geal-Dor believes that “The State’s residents want a connection to tradition and heritage and see themselves as part of a long line of generations of the Jewish nation. That is why there is no need to enforce these things… Our challenge is to preserve this framework and transfer it on to future generations.”
Posted by bonniekgoodman on April 5, 2012
http://togetherwithisrael.wordpress.com/2012/04/05/israel-brief-april-5-2012-56-of-israelis-say-chametz-law-necessary-for-passover/
Source: JPost, 3-8-12
Purim is a holiday that Israelis of all ages and levels of religious observance can and do enjoy. The holiday celebrations extend from before the holiday itself, well into the weekend where parties will continue to rage for those waiting for the pending workweek to end.
Children across the country arrived to school on Wednesday – the night when the holiday began – and Thursday donning technicolor costumes both of tradition holiday characters like Queen Esther and the evil Persian Haman , and more modern characters that would not seem out of place in a Halloween parade in the United States.
Ultra-Orthodox men unroll a segment of Esther’s megilla (scroll) to commemorate Purim.
Schoolchildren parade around wearing their costumes outside the Bialik Rogozin school in south Tel Aviv.
The 20th annual Holon Adlayada, Israel’s largest Purim parade, focused this year on the Tastes of Childhood.
A haredi (ultra-Orthodox) teen surveys possible costumes ahead of Purim.
Revelers join in the Zombi march, an annual festival in Tel Aviv that precedes Purim.
Youths in Tel Aviv get dressed up for the annual Zombie march on Tuesday.
Children in Jerusalem’s ultra-Orthodox Mea Shearim neighborhood don their costumes in school.
A haredi (ultra-Orthodox) man hands out Mishloah Manot, Purim gift baskets in Ramat Beit Shemesh.
As part of the holiday, some observers hand out Misholoah Manot, Purim baskets that are meant to signify goodwill and a holiday that leaves no one underfed.
A number of festival parades and marches took place across the country, with revelers dressing up as zombies in Tel Aviv, and festival-goers in Holon joining the 20th annual Adlayada, this year centered around the Tastes of Childhood theme.
In Tel Aviv, an alternative Adlayada was organized by some members of last summer’s social protest movement, adopting politicized costumes that, while they conveyed a message, still kept to the holiday’s more jovial essence.
Posted by bonniekgoodman on March 8, 2012
http://togetherwithisrael.wordpress.com/2012/03/08/israel-brief-march-8-2012-purim-revelers-party-observe-holiday-nationwide-in-israel/
Full Coverage of President Barack Obama's Middle East Tour & Israel Visit from March 20-23, 2013 @ Obama Israel Visit
