UIA Raises Money for Carmel Fire Victims - Overnight
The story began on Monday afternoon, when Sarah Netanyahu, wife of Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu, paid a visit to those injured in the fire who were hospitalized at Rambam. Mrs. Netanyahu met with doctors and family members of the hospitalized, including members of Hayat's and Bisan's family. She praised the pair's bravery, adding that “after talking with members of their families, I understand where their spirit of determination and self-sacrifice comes from.”
Netanyahu, along with family members, then discussed treatment options for the two with Professor Yehuda Ulman, head of the hospital's medical plastic surgery unit. Ulman said that a quick solution was necessary, because with their skin largely burned, the two were at high risk of infection. One temporary solution, he said, was a skin transplant – but this was far from an ideal solution, because the body often rejects “foreign” skin. A proper donor was also hard to find in Israel, as the amount of skin available for such transplants was very limited. Another solution, Ulman said, was the use of synthetic skin, an extremely expensive product that required a long, complicated procedure – with neither the skin nor the operation covered by Israel's national health insurance.
Netanyahu decided to contact the Keren Hayesod, the United Israel Appeal organization, which has raised funds from Diaspora Jewry in 45 countries since long before the establishment of the state. She made a call on Monday night asking the group to see what they could do about raising money to cover the procedure - and at 4 AM Tuesday Netanyahu got her answer, with the UIA saying it has succeeded in raising 150,000 euros overnight, much of it from its Canada appeal.
UIA chairman Modi Zandberg said that the response to appeals for funds to help with the aftermath of the fire had been overwhelming. “As Prime Minister Netanyahu persuaded world leaders to provide help to fight the Carmel fire, we appealed to world Jewry to help treat the wounded, and we were able to raise the money in a short period of time,” Zandberg said. Sarah Netanyahu, for her part, said that she was glad she had been able to be of service.
Netanyahu, along with family members, then discussed treatment options for the two with Professor Yehuda Ulman, head of the hospital's medical plastic surgery unit. Ulman said that a quick solution was necessary, because with their skin largely burned, the two were at high risk of infection. One temporary solution, he said, was a skin transplant – but this was far from an ideal solution, because the body often rejects “foreign” skin. A proper donor was also hard to find in Israel, as the amount of skin available for such transplants was very limited. Another solution, Ulman said, was the use of synthetic skin, an extremely expensive product that required a long, complicated procedure – with neither the skin nor the operation covered by Israel's national health insurance.
Netanyahu decided to contact the Keren Hayesod, the United Israel Appeal organization, which has raised funds from Diaspora Jewry in 45 countries since long before the establishment of the state. She made a call on Monday night asking the group to see what they could do about raising money to cover the procedure - and at 4 AM Tuesday Netanyahu got her answer, with the UIA saying it has succeeded in raising 150,000 euros overnight, much of it from its Canada appeal.
UIA chairman Modi Zandberg said that the response to appeals for funds to help with the aftermath of the fire had been overwhelming. “As Prime Minister Netanyahu persuaded world leaders to provide help to fight the Carmel fire, we appealed to world Jewry to help treat the wounded, and we were able to raise the money in a short period of time,” Zandberg said. Sarah Netanyahu, for her part, said that she was glad she had been able to be of service.
By David Lev
Israelnationalnews.com
UIA Victoria continues to be overwhelmed by the generosity of our amazing community!
If you would like to donate, visit www.uiavic.org
YoungUIA's top 10 things to do in Israel!
The YoungUIA exec is giving LonelyPlanet and Tripadvisor.com a run for their money by creating its own "Top 10" things to do while you're in Israel over 2010/11.
Of course there are the perennial favourites such as the holy Kotel (Western Wall), Tel Aviv's beaches, Eilat and the Golan, however, what we want to do is show you the 'real Israel'!
1. The best falafel
Ta'ami Falafel bar - 3 Shamai street, Jerusalem
Any Israeli knows that the best falafel are never in the tourist areas. Hidden away from the never ending wave of American tourists on Ben Yehuda street, there is a small hole in the wall where Ta'ami is situated. Ta'ami known for its hummus above all else, but Jerusalem falafel connoisseurs know that its mastery of chickpeas doesn't end with spreads. Ta'ami's falafel is dense, moist and intensely flavorful - perhaps the best on-its-own falafel in the entire city. The restaurant's major weak point is that they don't offer the full complement of salads - you can order a falafel to go, but all you can get in the pita is the falafel, hummus and tomato-and-cucumber salad. Still, it's Ta'ami falafel and Ta'ami hummus, which means that essentially anything else would be an unwelcome distraction!
2. Making history 'fun'...well sort of
The Time Elevator 37 Hilel Street, Agron House , Jerusalem 91004
Incorporating perhaps the most unnecessary need for moving 'theme world style' chairs ever, The Time Elevator provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about the history of Israel and Jerusalem. The theater has several screens where visitors literally 'lurch' through the pages of history. This audio-visual feast is narated by none other than Topel - the guy who plays Tevia in Fiddler on the Roof.
While we're on the theme of interactive history lessons, if you're up north it's worth visiting "Golan Magic" (In the Hutzot Ha'Golan shopping center). The three-dimensional adventure incorporates a 180-degree panoramic screen. Lights, sounds and a variety of sensory stimuli enable you to experience the scenery, the people, the sites and the history of the Golan in a way you never dreamed possible. Glide over rushing streams, feel the wind, see the snow and more.
3. Xoho Cafe-Bar-Art
Xoho Cafe - Mapu 18, Ben Yehuda Street, Tel Aviv
This ain't your ordinary cafe. If Music and Art were to marry, their child would be this cafe.
The English speaking hosts (Xoli and Howard - hence where the cafe's name comes from) make it easy for the majority of us who never got further in Hebrew at school than learning what a 'shoresh' is - and even then - to order food. Daily muffins are always a different flavor and salads are made of fresh market produce. The Salmon and Cream Cheese bagel is a definite
favorite among regulars, as well as the Carrot Cake that often accompanies a coffee for dessert.4. Electron blue
Better Place electric vehicle demonstration center: Pi Glilot compound Ramat Hasharon Tel Aviv, Israel
CEO of Better Place Australia, Evan Thornley sums up his pitch in one sentence - "Petol is getting more expensive, electricity is getting cheaper - you know how this movie ends". Entrepreneur Shai Agassi who founded Better Place foresees electric vehicles making up the majority of cars on the road in 20 years. His company will be leading the way by providing the infrastructure needed to support electric cars. Recently, Better Place opened a visitor centre in Tel Aviv. The opening of the Better Place Center represents an important step for the company as it prepares for commercial launch in Israel and Denmark next year. The Center is open to the public to come and familiarize themselves with all aspects of the Better Place solution: a fully electric, battery-powered car; a comprehensive infrastructure that includes charge spots and a battery switch station; and a comprehensive suite of in-car services designed to provide drivers with the best possible EV driving experience.
5. Support Sderot!
Sderot Media Center - Histadrut 1 Sderot, Israel 80100
The town of Sderot has been under attack from Hamas rockets for over a decade. Since Operation Cast Lead, the number of rockets hitting Sderot has fallen to almost zero. However, 10 years of constant rocket attacks has had a detrimental effect on the local economy. Now, we're not saying that Sderot is the most beautiful town in Israel - far from it, however by visiting Sderot, not only will you be supporting the locals, you will be sending a clear message to Hamas that their rockets won't lead to Israelis packing their bags!
6. A kibbutz with a difference
Kibbutz Lavi, Lower Galilee, Israel - www.lavi.co.il
Kibbutz Lavi has been going from strength to strength since its founding in 1949. During its early days, a number of Australian's made aliyah to live on the Kibbutz. We recommend staying for a shabbat on the Kibbutz. The Kibbutz is home to a world class hotel made up of 188 luxurious rooms. Many guests choose to take a tour of the kibbutz on Saturday afternoon where they discover Lavi's garden for the blind. This really is something special. Visitors - both blind and with sight are encouraged to feel their way around the garden. Specially selected plants have been planted that have unique textures and smells.
7. Nitzana Youth Village
Nitzana Youth Village
Now, we couldn't do a "top 10" list of things to do in Israel without plugging one of our own projects. YoungUIA is proud to support the Nitzana Youth Village. The village is situated on the Peace Border with Egypt. The Nitzana Educational Village brings together religious and secular Israeli-born youth, youth from the Diaspora, immigrants from the former Soviet Union and Ethiopia as well as Bedouin youth. Nitzana’s overall educational approach emphasizes tolerance, mutual understanding and respect among Jews of diverse backgrounds. The Village plays an important role in promoting the development of the Negev. In addition, the village is used as a testing ground for many of the new renewable energy technologies being invented in Israel. It is projected that one day, only electric cars will be allowed to drive in the village.
8. A Drewish Princess?
22nd Street, Daliyat el-Carmel, Carmel, Israel
Daliyat el-Carmel is a Druze village high on the slopes of Mt.Carmel and has an exceptionally unique character. It is a colorful village that offers wonderful hospitality with a smile and is also very interesting. The Druze is an ethnic group that split off from Islam in Egypt
In recent years the villagers have begun hosting groups in their homes, and such a visit offers a glimpse of their houses, culture and tradition. The local residents offer tourists and genuine ethnic foods, wear their traditional clothes, tell stories about the Druze heritage and there are even guest houses designed with an authentic Druze décor.
9. Yad Vashem
Har Hazikaron, Jerusalem
Many people will tell you that they've visited Yad Vashem on numerous occasions, yet they still learn or see something new on each additional visit. As the Jewish people’s living memorial to the Holocaust, Yad Vashem safeguards the memory of the past and imparts its meaning for future generations. Established in 1953, as the world center for documentation, research, education and commemoration of the Holocaust, Yad Vashem is today a dynamic and vital place of intergenerational and international encounter. Make sure you leave a minimum of 4 hours to look through the museum.
10. On ya' bike!
Cycle.co.il - 147 Ben Yehuda Street, Tel Aviv
Tel-Aviv has recently built over 100km of dedicate bicycle tracks. For around $15 per day, you can rent a bike and enjoy the fresh air. Here is a suggested bike route:
Start your day by Riding South on the Seafront ( Herbert Samuel Blvd ). This will take you along the public beaches of the city into the old city of Jaffa . Ride into the Port, and there leave your bike to explore the alleys and churches of ancient Jaffa . Ride out of the port heading to the Jaffa Flea Market, where you can find nearly anything from clothing and toys to jewelry, art, souvenirs, etc.
Head north out of Jaffa , crossing the bridge at Abarbanel Street into Neve Tsedek - the first neighborhood built out of Jaffa and in the “new” city of Tel Aviv back in 1887 – where it all began. Ride through the tranquil and colorful streets of the area, enjoy the public art and galleries, and stop into one of the fashionable cafes located everywhere.
Head towards the Shalom Tower and join the bike lane along Rothschild Blvd. Follow the bike lane through the heart of the "White City" and observe the architecture that claimed this area a UNESCO world heritage site. You will arrive at the Bima Theater and the Dizengoff Center ; the commercial heart of Tel Aviv.
Follow the side streets parallel to Dizengoff, and then head east towards the Tel Aviv Museum of Art. After Visiting the Museum, stay on the inner streets, parallel to Iben Gvriol, going north to the Medina Plaza (Kikar Ha'Medina). Take some time to explore the fashion and boutique stores and the park situated in this high class area.
Continue north, until you reach the park on the south shore of the Yarkon river. Ride along the peaceful bike lane towards the sea that will eventually bring you to the port of Tel Aviv. Follow the many bike routes of this historical location before heading back to the beachfront, where we started off.
Head north out of Jaffa , crossing the bridge at Abarbanel Street into Neve Tsedek - the first neighborhood built out of Jaffa and in the “new” city of Tel Aviv back in 1887 – where it all began. Ride through the tranquil and colorful streets of the area, enjoy the public art and galleries, and stop into one of the fashionable cafes located everywhere.
Head towards the Shalom Tower and join the bike lane along Rothschild Blvd. Follow the bike lane through the heart of the "White City" and observe the architecture that claimed this area a UNESCO world heritage site. You will arrive at the Bima Theater and the Dizengoff Center ; the commercial heart of Tel Aviv.
Follow the side streets parallel to Dizengoff, and then head east towards the Tel Aviv Museum of Art. After Visiting the Museum, stay on the inner streets, parallel to Iben Gvriol, going north to the Medina Plaza (Kikar Ha'Medina). Take some time to explore the fashion and boutique stores and the park situated in this high class area.
Continue north, until you reach the park on the south shore of the Yarkon river. Ride along the peaceful bike lane towards the sea that will eventually bring you to the port of Tel Aviv. Follow the many bike routes of this historical location before heading back to the beachfront, where we started off.
If you're interested in joining one of the many UIA Missions to Israel, please don't hesitate to contact our office on (03) 9272 5533.
Heading to Israel? Here's what you can do in Jerusalem!
By Stav Shapir
One of the most vital and colorful places in Jerusalem is the Mahane Yehuda market, in the center of town. Here, you can stock up on local fruit and vegetables, gorge on candy to your sweet tooth's content, and devour a fresh plate of hummus to keep you satisfied for hours.
Not only will your taste buds be stimulated in this vivacious market place: the colorful vendors will almost certainly give you a chance to get in touch with the "stereotypical" Israeli – friendly, loud and always willing to haggle. The market is open from dawn to dusk, peaking in adrenaline on Friday afternoons ahead of the Sabbath, when thousands rush to the stalls to stock up on goodies for the weekend.
After your hunger has been satiated and your thirst has been quenched, you should be prepared to brave the Old City for a little taste of Jerusalem's loaded history and religious significance.
Walking down the Via Dolorosa will give you a step-by step-guide to the Christian history in the city of white stone. Later, a stroll through the Armenian Quarter to the Western Wall will offer you the chance to fight for the right to find a crack in Judaism’s holiest site in which you can offer up your prayers.
If you have had enough of the hustle and bustle of the city, take a visit to the Israel Museum and check out the unique and grand collection of both local and international art. This museum has on exhibit works ranging from the impressionists to the modernists and contemporary pieces, as well as a plethora of historical artifacts dating back more than 4,000 years.
When you are finished at the museum, cut across the green parks to check out Israel's Knesset building, whether you want to enjoy the view, or try to get a glimpse of the prime minister making his rounds.
After soaking in so much culture, you might want to grab a good cup of tea or coffee, or a little something sweet. Babet Café, which specializes in Belgian waffles, could be the perfect place for just that. Set behind Zion Square in the center of town, the little café is pilgrimage site for chocolate lovers, open between 1 P.M. and 2:30 A.M. every day and from 10:00 A.M. on Fridays until the beginning of Shabbat.
So, with your sugar levels high, making you feel young and energetic once more, hop across the road to the Nachlaot neighborhood, a bohemian enclave where students are in the majority. An early evening stroll through those magical alleyways is the perfect way to end Jerusalem Day.
Website promotes Dead Sea in New7Wonders competition
Tourism Ministry launches website in several languages inviting surfers to vote for 'Lowest Wonder in the World'
The heat is on in the New7Wonders of the World competition, and the Tourism Ministry has launched a website in eight languages to promote the Dead Sea as a candidate in the category New7Wonders of Nature. The campaign is also being launched via social media – Facebook, Twitter and YouTube – to encourage internet surfers to vote for the Dead Sea. 
The site, in English, Russian, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Mandarin and Korean under the slogan "The Lowest Wonder in the World," will enable surfers to add their vote. It will also provide information about the Dead Sea, and about religious, historical and cultural sites in the area as well as health tourism, events and attractions.
The site, in English, Russian, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Mandarin and Korean under the slogan "The Lowest Wonder in the World," will enable surfers to add their vote. It will also provide information about the Dead Sea, and about religious, historical and cultural sites in the area as well as health tourism, events and attractions.
The site is the latest in the Tourism Ministry's efforts to promote the site's candidacy in the competition. Other efforts include marketing, direct contact with Christian and Jewish leaders around the world, and advertising in national parks and other sites throughout the country as well as at international tourism fairs. The Ministry also held a Dead Sea week at the Expo in China, in cooperation with the Foreign Ministry.
300 million votes needed
Tourism Minister Stas Misezhnikov (Yisrael Beitenu), chairman of the Dead Sea Support Committee, says the new campaign will place this unique natural feature in the hearts of people throughout the world.
"The Dead Sea, one of Israel's natural and tourism treasures offers visitors a unique experience, rich in history and archeology," Misezhnikov said. "We invite enthusiasts and veteran supporters of the Dead Sea as well as those discovering it for the first time, to visit and vote for it in the competition."
Since the Dead Sea made it through to the finals, it has occupied a position within the top 14 of the 28 finalists, which include the Amazon, the Galapagos, the Grand Canyon and the Maldives. Some billion voters are expected to express their preference by the time the competition closes in November 2011, after which the seven winners will be announced – each of which will need 300-400 million votes.
The Dead Sea is considered one of the most popular attractions in Israel. According to Tourism Ministry data, some 45% of all tourists to Israel visit the Dead Sea. The tourist industry along its shores includes 15 hotels as well as 19 guesthouses in nearby kibbutzim and moshavim, plus various other businesses which provide employment to some 4,500 people.
The Dead Sea is considered one of the most popular attractions in Israel. According to Tourism Ministry data, some 45% of all tourists to Israel visit the Dead Sea. The tourist industry along its shores includes 15 hotels as well as 19 guesthouses in nearby kibbutzim and moshavim, plus various other businesses which provide employment to some 4,500 people.
ynet.com
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