As we celebrate Tu B’Shevat, Israel has the unique distinction of planting more trees than any other country in the world… writes Michael Kuttner.
By the time Israel became independent in 1948, the JNF had planted about 4.5 million trees on the country’s rocky hillsides. Today over 200 million trees in forests and woodlands covering some 300,000 acres provide Israelis with a wide range of opportunities for outdoor recreation and appreciation of nature.
WALKABOUT IN TEL AVIV
With borders closed and tourism at a standstill it is an eerie sight to see our cities and scenic spots bereft of overseas visitors.
For those who have not been able to visit now in over a year enjoy this walking tour of Tel Aviv and either see old places of interest or marvel at new developments which have occurred since you were here last.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lNQjiGQDay0
FACTS FROM THE CLASSROOM
In commemoration of International Education Day here are some salient facts about the state of education in Israel today: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0DxhdlksWj8
VACCINATION NATION
Take a look behind the scenes at the continuing national campaign to vaccinate Israelis: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lvIjwpAsOdA
ISRAEL’S ENTRY FOR EUROVISION 2021
Last year’s contest was cancelled owing to the pandemic. Hopefully, this year the competition will go ahead as scheduled in May. Listen to Israel’s entry: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=opmTs9uvENI
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.]
