Elections are on the immediate horizon. Is that bad news or good news, asks Michael Kuttner...

As usual there are many different opinions. In the meantime life carries on in as normal a fashion as is possible amidst virus challenges.

This past week witnessed Morocco joining the growing list of Arab/Moslem countries who acknowledge the advantages to be gained by legitimizing relations with Israel.

HANUKKAH LAMP 

Like the original miracle of oil, archaeologists have revealed just in time for Hanukkah the discovery of an original lamp from the time of the Hasmoneans. Unearthed in the City of David dig this exciting find once more validates the presence of the Jewish People in the city of Jerusalem.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ECFxs0pv-UU

BIODIVERSITY 

When most people think of Israel, they envisage a small country consisting mainly of desert landscapes and densely inhabited cities on the coastal plain. It could come as a surprise that in fact the country also boasts several mountains and mountainous regions with a rich biodiversity.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oK2YdbJJrs4

DESIGNER MASKS

 Who said that masks all had to look the same? Israeli flair and innovation has produced a collection of fashionable masks designed not only for protection but also to provide the wearer with a fashion statement.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lmF-ngHEDcw

ANTI LONELINESS APPLICATION.

 These days there is an app for almost anything… To combat loneliness amongst the elderly during these days of lockdowns and restricted movement Israeli ingenuity has come to the rescue and is providing a lifeline for those who are housebound.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gK_yBSSLqgw

FOURTEEN YEAR OLD MEDAL WINNER

 An amazing 14 year old girl from my home city has become a European Taekwondo champion.

This religiously observant youngster has her sights already set on the 2028 Olympics which could present somewhat of a challenge as up until now the Olympic organizers have shown no inclination to accommodate Jewish religious sensibilities.

Given her determination however anything is possible.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4o0SiWoRU4g

Michael Kuttner is a Jewish New Zealander who for many years was actively involved with various communal organisations connected to Judaism and Israel. He now lives in Israel. 

[This article was originally published on J-Wire and is reproduced here with permission from Michael Kuttner.]