Posts
I owe you all am almost ashamed apology for having such a long and unintentional lapse in my blog, although I have been more active with twitter and I am a new and still reluctant facebook (especvially given the new privacy changes last week).
I did work on an entry in for this month's trazzler contest on Islands. If you are reading this before December 23, I hope that you will please support me and "wishlist" my story before December 23, you only can do it once each contest.Here is link http://www.trazzler.com/trips/halema-uma-u-crater-kilauea-volcano-national-park-hawaii-hi-in-volcano-hi# Mahalo
I will be returning to the Big Island this week to spend more time with some of the island's special healers and kahuna, and Madam Pele, who have left a lasting impression on my heart and soul. It is this additional dimension, in addition to the genuine beauty and diversity of the Island, that makes it even more enchanting. I look forward to seeing even what I saw recently through a second pair of eyes. The Hawaiian Islands have always represented some of my families happiest and earliest travel experiences. Even though we are travelling without our children, the images are as fresh as footprints in the wet sand.
I hope that you, too, will be interested in learning more about the special experiences that you too can have on the Big Island.
In the meantime, as I am planning another trip to Kosova for a conference I was invited to participate in on Albanians and the Jews, particularly during WWII. I was thrilled to see that the America Society for Travel Agents (ASTA) has made Pristina Kosova, the site for their annual conference this fall. With the Besa exhibit coming to SFU Teck Gallery from June 27-Oct 17th and with lectures and other programming during that time, as well as the anticipated release in 2010 of the movie, God's House, and possible award for best Jewish Fine Arts Book in the US, plus work on another story I have found so compelling during the recent war in Kosova, I was very interested to find the following article on EU removing need for visas for many countries, but not Albania or Kosovoa.
By Jovana Gec, THE ASSOCIATED PRESS, cp.org, Updated: December 18, 2009 6:32 PMSerbia, Montenegro, Macedonia celebrate lifting of EU travel visas after 20 years
Serbia, Montenegro and Macedonia on Friday were celebrating the lifting of travel restrictions to EU countries, marking a symbolic end to an era of isolation and instability in the troubled region.
Concerts, all-night parties and fireworks were held to hail the EU decision to open its borders to more than 10 million people from the western Balkans. The new rights take effect at midnight.
"The visa abolishment has restored the rights that other citizens of the European Union enjoy, the freedom of movement and the feeling that we belong to the European family," interior ministers of the three countries said in a joint statement.
The change is a major boost for the region, which has sought to move closer to the European Union after years of ethnic wars in the 1990s. Travel restrictions will remain in place for Bosnia, Kosovo and Albania, but will be reviewed next year.
The visa-free policy applies to the so-called Schengen zone of unfettered travel, which covers 25 EU member states, as well as three non-EU members - Iceland, Norway and Switzerland - but does not include Britain and Ireland.
The citizens of the former Yugoslavia had enjoyed free travel in the past, but visa requirements were introduced as the federation was breaking up in 1991 in a series of conflicts that lasted until 1999.
Visa regime forced the residents to wait in long lines before EU nations' embassies for nearly 20 years.
"I have been humiliated for too long," said 39-year-old Macedonian journalist Emil Gasevski. "I hope we are no longer second class citizens of Europe."
In Belgrade, 41-year-old Bobana Vojinovic said the news of was great "even though we don't have money to travel."
"We are finally out of the cage," she said.
Travel agents in Serbia, Bosnia and Montenegro all have reported a surge in bookings for New Year's holidays after EU ministers announced the change earlier this month.
Serbian government officials boarded buses and planes late Friday to lead the first groups of citizens over the borders to EU nations. Deputy Prime Minister Bozidar Djelic took 50 Serbs - who have never travelled to an EU country - on a midnight flight to the EU seat, Brussels. Meanwhile, the state TV broadcast live a concert from the Belgrade City Hall.
In the Macedonian capital of Skopje, celebrations were organized at a central square despite freezing weather. Mayor Koce Trajanovski said bars and restaurants will be open all night "so people can celebrate properly."
Montenegrin authorities are flying 100 citizens to Rome, while 100 lottery-picked Macedonians will travel for free to Paris.
Goran Novakovic, 39-year-old painter from Montenegro says he has not been to an EU country since 1980s'.
"I am very excited," he said.
-
Associated Press Writer Konstantin Testorides contributed to this report from Skopje, Macedonia.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
10 Days to Touch 10 Million Thanksgiving Interview Series: Les Brown, The Motivator
10 Days to Touch 10 Million Thanksgiving Interview Series: Les Brown, The Motivator
So much has happened since my last blog, I have been to a film festival, a book festival, the Big Island of Hawaii and to New York. So much to share, so many amazing experiences...
As I excitedly await my family for an American Thanksgiving in Canada, I want to wish all my family, friends and clients a very happy holiday celebration that triggers a glorious awareness of all we are truly thankful for.
So much has happened since my last blog, I have been to a film festival, a book festival, the Big Island of Hawaii and to New York. So much to share, so many amazing experiences...
As I excitedly await my family for an American Thanksgiving in Canada, I want to wish all my family, friends and clients a very happy holiday celebration that triggers a glorious awareness of all we are truly thankful for.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Thoughts on Holidays
This past weekend was the start of the Jewish New Year. For most of us, our families have often been scattered in the wind to many different corners of the earth. Most of us make valiant efforts to be together. Holidays are a magnet for what in the travel business we call VFR-"visiting friends and relatives". It is not the most profitable of markets, since often it is just a car trip and "camping out" at someone's house, eating communal meals and sharing family and religious customs. For many of us, this was our first time we really got to "travel". It did not have to be far, but it was certainly more exciting if we got to bring along a suitcase with pyjamas and party clothes. It truly was about the experience, and not the destination.
Preparing for a family holiday is often mixed with great anticipation and as we get older, sometimes with dread. It is similar to how we we travel, we happily carry(on) our current baggage, yet how we often do we also shlep along our overweight, blown-out-of- proportion childhood perceptions and misconceptions.
Tonight, in reflecting on what this Rosh Hashana meant to me, it really struck me how we use the same word, "holiday" spelled the same way, for two seemingly different experiences, but are they really that different? On first blush, they are opposite..going on holiday, on vacation, means getting away from everything. That often includes work, school, and responsibility. however, celebrating a holiday, a "holy day" whether it is religious or not, implies the same thing. A break from life's routine and most often, it means travelling with (or to) friends or family. We also hope for the same result-a renewal, a fresh perspective, taking time to participate in activities that are meaningful to you-whether it means praying, sleeping till noon,building a school in Nepal or volunteering your skills to improve the lives of others.
The time between Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur is traditionally a time of reflection on what we accomplished in the past year, and what we are intending to accomplish in the coming year. We ask for forgiveness and we are expected to forgive. In the past few months, and in the past few years especially, I have been fortunate to have travelled to many corners of the world. I have seen great joy from people living in abject poverty and some of the most unfulfilled people sitting in the midst of great wealth. My eyes and heart have filled with tears of sorrow, having witnessed the aftermath of the useless and senseless destruction of life, property and freedom. They have also overflowed with love and kindness, gratitude and joy in appreciating the simple determination of good people who want to do good things, because they know it is the only thing to do.
When we travel, not as tourists, but as VFR-visiting potential family and friends, means we are making every day a holi-day. Isn't that what life is really all about?
I wish you all a happy, healthy, peaceful and prosperous New Year, and that we should all be inscribed in the book of life.
Preparing for a family holiday is often mixed with great anticipation and as we get older, sometimes with dread. It is similar to how we we travel, we happily carry(on) our current baggage, yet how we often do we also shlep along our overweight, blown-out-of- proportion childhood perceptions and misconceptions.
Tonight, in reflecting on what this Rosh Hashana meant to me, it really struck me how we use the same word, "holiday" spelled the same way, for two seemingly different experiences, but are they really that different? On first blush, they are opposite..going on holiday, on vacation, means getting away from everything. That often includes work, school, and responsibility. however, celebrating a holiday, a "holy day" whether it is religious or not, implies the same thing. A break from life's routine and most often, it means travelling with (or to) friends or family. We also hope for the same result-a renewal, a fresh perspective, taking time to participate in activities that are meaningful to you-whether it means praying, sleeping till noon,building a school in Nepal or volunteering your skills to improve the lives of others.
The time between Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur is traditionally a time of reflection on what we accomplished in the past year, and what we are intending to accomplish in the coming year. We ask for forgiveness and we are expected to forgive. In the past few months, and in the past few years especially, I have been fortunate to have travelled to many corners of the world. I have seen great joy from people living in abject poverty and some of the most unfulfilled people sitting in the midst of great wealth. My eyes and heart have filled with tears of sorrow, having witnessed the aftermath of the useless and senseless destruction of life, property and freedom. They have also overflowed with love and kindness, gratitude and joy in appreciating the simple determination of good people who want to do good things, because they know it is the only thing to do.
When we travel, not as tourists, but as VFR-visiting potential family and friends, means we are making every day a holi-day. Isn't that what life is really all about?
I wish you all a happy, healthy, peaceful and prosperous New Year, and that we should all be inscribed in the book of life.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Step Up to Seabourn with Savings to 65%
Come recharge your spirit amid the lush beauty of the Lesser Antilles, the unspoiled islets that lie in the deep Caribbean. Discover white sand beaches and aquamarine waters, coral gardens teaming with neon fish - and as much or as little adventure as they want.
Imagine enjoying Caviar in the Surf in exquisite Mayreau or toasting a Joyeux Noel with your family at a cafe in exclusive St. Barts. This season, they can spend quality time with those they love aboard the ultra-luxury Yachts of Seabourn. With fares like these, take the whole family along!
There's never been a better time to go yachting with Seabourn. Enjoy exceptional savings now up to 65% off.
Caribbean Getaway I • Seabourn Spirit
NOV 27, 2009 • 5 days
Fort Lauderdale, Florida to Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas
Special Fares from $1,599
Caribbean Hideaways • Seabourn Spirit
DEC 2, 2009 • 7 days
Round-trip St. Thomas, USVI
Special Fares from $1,999
Caribbean Charms • Seabourn Spirit
DEC 9, 2009 • 7 days
Round-trip St. Thomas, USVI
Special Fares from $1,999
Christmas • Seabourn Spirit
DEC 21, 2009 • 14 days
Round-trip Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Special Fares from $6,999
Caribbean Tapestry • Seabourn Odyssey
NOV 28 or DEC 10, 2009 • 12 days
Round-trip Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Special Fares from $3,499
Caribbean Holiday • Seabourn Odyssey
DEC 22, 2009 • 14 days
Round-trip Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Special Fares from $7,499
Imagine enjoying Caviar in the Surf in exquisite Mayreau or toasting a Joyeux Noel with your family at a cafe in exclusive St. Barts. This season, they can spend quality time with those they love aboard the ultra-luxury Yachts of Seabourn. With fares like these, take the whole family along!
There's never been a better time to go yachting with Seabourn. Enjoy exceptional savings now up to 65% off.
Caribbean Getaway I • Seabourn Spirit
NOV 27, 2009 • 5 days
Fort Lauderdale, Florida to Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas
Special Fares from $1,599
Caribbean Hideaways • Seabourn Spirit
DEC 2, 2009 • 7 days
Round-trip St. Thomas, USVI
Special Fares from $1,999
Caribbean Charms • Seabourn Spirit
DEC 9, 2009 • 7 days
Round-trip St. Thomas, USVI
Special Fares from $1,999
Christmas • Seabourn Spirit
DEC 21, 2009 • 14 days
Round-trip Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Special Fares from $6,999
Caribbean Tapestry • Seabourn Odyssey
NOV 28 or DEC 10, 2009 • 12 days
Round-trip Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Special Fares from $3,499
Caribbean Holiday • Seabourn Odyssey
DEC 22, 2009 • 14 days
Round-trip Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Special Fares from $7,499
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
So You Want to be a Reporter At the Olympics? I have just the ticket!
Hi everyone,
I am always thrilled when I have an INSIDER opportunity to share and this is ONE OF THEM BIG TIME! This weekend, Sept 18-20th, get a HUGE jump start to get yourselves not just to the Olympics, but be a REPORTER for the OLYMPICS!
Kris is working on a website for Samsung a sponsor of the Winter Olympics in Whistler/Vancouver and they have come up with a concept where they are searching for a few reporters to report back to the rest of us all the fun and interesting stuff going on around the Olympics. Because they want the site to have content at launch they want to seed the site with user generated videos showcasing real users pitching why they should be selected. The details for the campaign are below and if you or anyone you know...(no age or preconditions here..so anyone can enter as long as they follow the rules below) are interested, please keep forwarding this email on to them, and let me know. Kris will be coming up to Vancouver for Friday morning and will have my camera in hand to help anyone that wants to create a video for the site. Read below and let me know if you are interested me shooting your video this Friday, Saturday and or Sunday. .... What is in it for you? Read below.
Do you have a gift for creative storytelling using online content such as videos, blogs and social media? Then grab a friend, enter the Samsung Mobile Explorers Contest and show us your skills. You could win a free twenty-day trip to Vancouver to capture the most exciting moments of the 2010 Olympic Winter Games.
How do I enter?
First, find a friend – all submissions must come from a team of two. Now put your heads together to create a video submission that will blow us away with your ability to tell a story in a fresh, original way using cutting edge online media and technology. We’ll review your video within 48 hours and then post it to this site (as long as it meets the submission guidelines).
How will winners be chosen?
Once you submit your video, democracy takes over, and the audience will have until a specified date to vote for their favorite entries. The five teams with the highest-rated submissions will head directly to Vancouver to cover the Olympic Winter Games as Samsung Mobile Explorers. For twenty days, these intrepid Mobile Explorers will follow the action from the frontlines and post daily updates to this site in the form of videos, photos and text.
Throughout the games, our panel of judges will be watching your work and judging based on:
Originality
Overall quality
Number of views on this site
The stories you report
At the end, they’ll choose one Grand Prize Winner team, who will be contacted.
What could I win?
The Grand Prize Winner will receive $5,000 CDN and a Samsung prize pack with a retail value of about $10,000 CDN. Not to mention a trip to the Olympic Games for the opportunity of a lifetime.
If you, or anyone you know are interested, please email me to randi@passionatetravel.com Links or postings will also be on my website www.passionatetravel.com my blog, www.passionatetravel.blogspot.com and on twitter www.twitter.com/randiwinter
After the 20th of September, look for more instructions on how you will be able to enter on MSN....
Ah yes, you don't have to be in Vancouver or Whistler to enter this competition when it is on line...
Please in the email include your phone number and email, but no calls after 4pm on Friday. If you want to do it without Kris and the dev team, that is great too, just send your info and they will let you know how to get the video footage to them,
I am always thrilled when I have an INSIDER opportunity to share and this is ONE OF THEM BIG TIME! This weekend, Sept 18-20th, get a HUGE jump start to get yourselves not just to the Olympics, but be a REPORTER for the OLYMPICS!
Kris is working on a website for Samsung a sponsor of the Winter Olympics in Whistler/Vancouver and they have come up with a concept where they are searching for a few reporters to report back to the rest of us all the fun and interesting stuff going on around the Olympics. Because they want the site to have content at launch they want to seed the site with user generated videos showcasing real users pitching why they should be selected. The details for the campaign are below and if you or anyone you know...(no age or preconditions here..so anyone can enter as long as they follow the rules below) are interested, please keep forwarding this email on to them, and let me know. Kris will be coming up to Vancouver for Friday morning and will have my camera in hand to help anyone that wants to create a video for the site. Read below and let me know if you are interested me shooting your video this Friday, Saturday and or Sunday. .... What is in it for you? Read below.
Do you have a gift for creative storytelling using online content such as videos, blogs and social media? Then grab a friend, enter the Samsung Mobile Explorers Contest and show us your skills. You could win a free twenty-day trip to Vancouver to capture the most exciting moments of the 2010 Olympic Winter Games.
How do I enter?
First, find a friend – all submissions must come from a team of two. Now put your heads together to create a video submission that will blow us away with your ability to tell a story in a fresh, original way using cutting edge online media and technology. We’ll review your video within 48 hours and then post it to this site (as long as it meets the submission guidelines).
How will winners be chosen?
Once you submit your video, democracy takes over, and the audience will have until a specified date to vote for their favorite entries. The five teams with the highest-rated submissions will head directly to Vancouver to cover the Olympic Winter Games as Samsung Mobile Explorers. For twenty days, these intrepid Mobile Explorers will follow the action from the frontlines and post daily updates to this site in the form of videos, photos and text.
Throughout the games, our panel of judges will be watching your work and judging based on:
Originality
Overall quality
Number of views on this site
The stories you report
At the end, they’ll choose one Grand Prize Winner team, who will be contacted.
What could I win?
The Grand Prize Winner will receive $5,000 CDN and a Samsung prize pack with a retail value of about $10,000 CDN. Not to mention a trip to the Olympic Games for the opportunity of a lifetime.
If you, or anyone you know are interested, please email me to randi@passionatetravel.com Links or postings will also be on my website www.passionatetravel.com my blog, www.passionatetravel.blogspot.com and on twitter www.twitter.com/randiwinter
After the 20th of September, look for more instructions on how you will be able to enter on MSN....
Ah yes, you don't have to be in Vancouver or Whistler to enter this competition when it is on line...
Please in the email include your phone number and email, but no calls after 4pm on Friday. If you want to do it without Kris and the dev team, that is great too, just send your info and they will let you know how to get the video footage to them,
Friday, September 4, 2009
Using lots of brain cells today
Today was the day...I FINALLY have dedicated myself to updating and improving my Passionate Travel website...it has taken many hours of frustration and semi heartbreak, but I am now able to offer you all of the publications from Virtuoso as fully readable ebooks. They are all listed under Travel Resources, Virtuoso Publications... Best of the Best, Virtuoso Life, Virtuoso Insights....all there for your reading pleasure and inspiration. Look for some amazing new exclusive opportunities on the Big Island of Hawaii-including honeymoons, anniversaries, spiritual and wellness experiences, relaxation, grounding and blessings. You too can receive special blessings from President Obama's kahuna. Ask me about opportunities to meet one of the kahunas during the upcoming months here in North America.
Lots more to come, but so is company, and I will have to continue this tomorrow.
Take advantage of the long weekend...and be the change that you seek.
Lots more to come, but so is company, and I will have to continue this tomorrow.
Take advantage of the long weekend...and be the change that you seek.
If you are in Vancouver Monday September 7th, and would like to meet some amazing young people who have come immigrated to Israel from Ethiopia to spend a month as legal interns here...this will be fascinating. From my experiences with Former israeli Ambassador to Ethiopia in 1991 during Operation Solomon, and from reading his book, I know that this will be quite the evening.
Please come to meet Mr. Erez Jegenau Naga and Ms. Jerus “Sigal” Trunech, two Israeli law students born in Ethiopia who are approaching the end of a month-long internship with Blake Cassels, a Vancouver law firm. They’ll be at 2644 Manitoba Street in Vancouver on Monday evening, September 7, from 7:30.
Erez was five years old when he was among the first group of Ethiopian Jews airlifted to Israel in 1985. At age 5, he left his village in Ethiopia and trekked for three months into Sudan. Growing up in Israel, he joined the IDF and served in a special combat unit.
Jerus came to Israel at age 10 considerably later than Erez.
Both are first-year law students at Ono Academic College in a program supported in part by the Jewish Federation of Greater Vancouver. You can read more about that program below and you can get a bit of a glimpse into Erez and Jerus’ visit here at http://tesfayesjourney.blogspot.com/. Meeting and talking with Erez and Jerus is an opportunity to learn firsthand about the experiences in Israel of Jews from Ethiopia and their personal perspectives on living in Israel.
Everyone is welcomed to attend. Please share this invitation with anyone who would be interested.
This evening is part of the PROJECT FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF ETHIOPIAN BORN IMMIGRANTS TO ISRAEL FOR HIGHER EDUCATION AND COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP
Ono Academic College (OAC), together with the Jewish Agency and in fulfillment of our mission of social responsibility, actively recruits Ethiopian-born Israelis who participate in the Higher Education and Community Leadership project. The project is currently in its fourth year and has gained recognition both in Israel and abroad for its success.
They aim to develop a cadre of young professional leaders by teaching academic degree programs in prestigious, lucrative professions able to make a huge impact on Israeli society. The first generation of children born in Ethiopia, but mostly raised in Israel, is just reaching the age of higher education. This is the generation which will make the changeover and become an integral part of Israeli society.
They are committed to provide personal attention, welcoming environment and extra support in studies provided at OAC enable the students to flourish and succeed.
Presently OAC provides scholarships for over 50% of the tuition for each student. The Ministry of Absorption's Student Authority provides tuition scholarships for the remainder. A token tuition of NIS 1,200 is paid by each student. We continue to seek partners for matching scholarships in order to maintain the growth of the number of students in this successful program.
The Jewish Agency, UIA Canada and UJC join OAC in funding the system of academic support, enrichment and leadership training courses for the students with Annual Campaign funds. The Israel Department of the Jewish Agency grants an annual stipend for living expenses to each student.
GOALS
The program goal is the achievement of a prestigious academic degree in high demand professions along with personal and leadership skills, leading to the strengthening of the family and social fabric of the Ethiopian Jewish community in Israel. This generation of Ethiopians has the opportunity to break the glass ceiling, and sever the chain of poverty of this community in Israel. Specifically, there are less than a dozen Ethiopian born lawyers in Israel today and just as few businesspersons. We need to believe in the strength of numbers and know that this group of students has the power to create positive social change.
PROFILE OF THE STUDENTS
OAC is proud to have 142 Ethiopian-born students this year. Their Ethiopian-born students come literally from all over Israel. Most live at home and a few live in Jewish Agency dormitories at the Kfar Saba Absorption Center.
Almost all of the students volunteer in one or more community projects, the majority within the Ethiopian community. Many of the projects originated in the Leadership course and are a direct result of plans drawn up in this course. Most of them are carried out in the students' home towns.
The volunteer projects include mentoring and homework assistance, participation in the Ethiopian National Project and other organizations for the Ethiopian community, preparation for the army for Ethiopian youth, empowerment for Ethiopian women, free legal aid, translation and preparation of documents for various authorities, and a unique project in which Ethiopian born students connect with Ethiopian soldiers in military jails to provide them with information and support, and facilitate their return to the army. Five of their students were elected to the Ethiopian Student Union, as Chairman, Vice Chairman, Spokesperson and board members.
Many of their students come from extremely difficult socioeconomic backgrounds. A majority of the students come from large families with four or more children. Most of the students' parents do not have skills which enable them to be employed in Israel, and subsist below the poverty level. On the whole the Ethiopian students must support themselves financially by working part time jobs, while also fulfilling volunteer requirements necessary to receive financial aid from the Ministry of Absorption. Four of their students are orphaned from both parents, and raise younger siblings.
They invite scholarship participation in carrying out this most important project. So even if you cannot make it Monday night, think of helping out. The trip I have been planning is now closed. This group often hosts missions to Israel, during which time you, as guests, will have the opportunity to personally meet the students.
For more information, go to http://www.ono.ac.il/?CategoryID=381&ArticleID=210
If you are interested, go to Amazon and look for a used copy of Asher Naim's "Saving the Lost Tribe: The Rescue and Redemption of the Ethiopian Jews" or contact me and I can lend you a copy...
Please come to meet Mr. Erez Jegenau Naga and Ms. Jerus “Sigal” Trunech, two Israeli law students born in Ethiopia who are approaching the end of a month-long internship with Blake Cassels, a Vancouver law firm. They’ll be at 2644 Manitoba Street in Vancouver on Monday evening, September 7, from 7:30.
Erez was five years old when he was among the first group of Ethiopian Jews airlifted to Israel in 1985. At age 5, he left his village in Ethiopia and trekked for three months into Sudan. Growing up in Israel, he joined the IDF and served in a special combat unit.
Jerus came to Israel at age 10 considerably later than Erez.
Both are first-year law students at Ono Academic College in a program supported in part by the Jewish Federation of Greater Vancouver. You can read more about that program below and you can get a bit of a glimpse into Erez and Jerus’ visit here at http://tesfayesjourney.blogspot.com/. Meeting and talking with Erez and Jerus is an opportunity to learn firsthand about the experiences in Israel of Jews from Ethiopia and their personal perspectives on living in Israel.
Everyone is welcomed to attend. Please share this invitation with anyone who would be interested.
This evening is part of the PROJECT FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF ETHIOPIAN BORN IMMIGRANTS TO ISRAEL FOR HIGHER EDUCATION AND COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP
Ono Academic College (OAC), together with the Jewish Agency and in fulfillment of our mission of social responsibility, actively recruits Ethiopian-born Israelis who participate in the Higher Education and Community Leadership project. The project is currently in its fourth year and has gained recognition both in Israel and abroad for its success.
They aim to develop a cadre of young professional leaders by teaching academic degree programs in prestigious, lucrative professions able to make a huge impact on Israeli society. The first generation of children born in Ethiopia, but mostly raised in Israel, is just reaching the age of higher education. This is the generation which will make the changeover and become an integral part of Israeli society.
They are committed to provide personal attention, welcoming environment and extra support in studies provided at OAC enable the students to flourish and succeed.
Presently OAC provides scholarships for over 50% of the tuition for each student. The Ministry of Absorption's Student Authority provides tuition scholarships for the remainder. A token tuition of NIS 1,200 is paid by each student. We continue to seek partners for matching scholarships in order to maintain the growth of the number of students in this successful program.
The Jewish Agency, UIA Canada and UJC join OAC in funding the system of academic support, enrichment and leadership training courses for the students with Annual Campaign funds. The Israel Department of the Jewish Agency grants an annual stipend for living expenses to each student.
GOALS
The program goal is the achievement of a prestigious academic degree in high demand professions along with personal and leadership skills, leading to the strengthening of the family and social fabric of the Ethiopian Jewish community in Israel. This generation of Ethiopians has the opportunity to break the glass ceiling, and sever the chain of poverty of this community in Israel. Specifically, there are less than a dozen Ethiopian born lawyers in Israel today and just as few businesspersons. We need to believe in the strength of numbers and know that this group of students has the power to create positive social change.
PROFILE OF THE STUDENTS
OAC is proud to have 142 Ethiopian-born students this year. Their Ethiopian-born students come literally from all over Israel. Most live at home and a few live in Jewish Agency dormitories at the Kfar Saba Absorption Center.
Almost all of the students volunteer in one or more community projects, the majority within the Ethiopian community. Many of the projects originated in the Leadership course and are a direct result of plans drawn up in this course. Most of them are carried out in the students' home towns.
The volunteer projects include mentoring and homework assistance, participation in the Ethiopian National Project and other organizations for the Ethiopian community, preparation for the army for Ethiopian youth, empowerment for Ethiopian women, free legal aid, translation and preparation of documents for various authorities, and a unique project in which Ethiopian born students connect with Ethiopian soldiers in military jails to provide them with information and support, and facilitate their return to the army. Five of their students were elected to the Ethiopian Student Union, as Chairman, Vice Chairman, Spokesperson and board members.
Many of their students come from extremely difficult socioeconomic backgrounds. A majority of the students come from large families with four or more children. Most of the students' parents do not have skills which enable them to be employed in Israel, and subsist below the poverty level. On the whole the Ethiopian students must support themselves financially by working part time jobs, while also fulfilling volunteer requirements necessary to receive financial aid from the Ministry of Absorption. Four of their students are orphaned from both parents, and raise younger siblings.
They invite scholarship participation in carrying out this most important project. So even if you cannot make it Monday night, think of helping out. The trip I have been planning is now closed. This group often hosts missions to Israel, during which time you, as guests, will have the opportunity to personally meet the students.
For more information, go to http://www.ono.ac.il/?CategoryID=381&ArticleID=210
If you are interested, go to Amazon and look for a used copy of Asher Naim's "Saving the Lost Tribe: The Rescue and Redemption of the Ethiopian Jews" or contact me and I can lend you a copy...
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Yes Virginia, There are Canada Line Police
Tomorrow is my anniversary and we decided to go all the way to the aiport and have dinner at the Fairmont Airport Hotel GlobeYVR restaurant with friends who did not partake of the opening day festivities for Canada Line. Since we did not take the train the entire route as it was closing, today's experience again made us feel even luckier that we live in a city with a rapid transit system like ours. It is part disneyland, with the twists and turns in the tunnels, not unlike space mountain, and then in Richmond, when you come out into the daylight, it is something else again...more like a roller coaster slowly climbing and then dropping into a curve, all the while whisking along the track. Being so high above the city, and with no wall or barrier on the outside of the train- no rail, just a narrow walkway in case of emergency... could be a bit unnerving, but everyone on the train, regardless of age, was having a great time. People were trying to decide where to get off, before getting back on, because the tickets are actually good for several hours in either direction...and after 630pm, it goes to one zone fare regardless of how far you are going.
Our dinner at GlobeYVR was based on their summer 100 mile diet program. The dishes were beautifully put together, albeit a bit on the miniscule portion size, but the flavours popped, Since our friends do not eat some of the ingredients, we were beneficiaries of many assorted tastes. The one damper was that they did not bring out two of the orders without one requested and confirmed ingredient. Since they had already served two of us, they should never have taken away the whole plate for 15 or 20 minutes, leaving half of us to try to dawdle or eat cold food, and never updating us or offering them the other presentations on the same plate. Especially for the price, and how slow the restaurant was, this was unthinkable...but we shared and managed.
On the way back from the airport, we were met by translink staff answering questions and helping as well as watching over ticket purchases. We were pleasantly surprised by the number of fellow passengers, most of which clearly were on a joy ride with no luggage and a few airport staff. There were two young men from Quebec, and when the transit policeman came over for the tickets, apparently one had one and the other either could not find his, or did not have one...taking a 5050 chance I guess. These officers have guns, and the power to insist that they get off the train and they get fingerprinted and the fine (in case you were wondering) is $250!
This definitely generated a lot of discussion on the train, but we think that after scaring them, considering that they were definitely non English speakers and from out of town, they were sent to buy that second ticket...being given a second chance.
So if you are thinking of passing on the ticket purchase, think again!
Once again as the train left the two young men, the officer and the station, we were whisked away into the evening with the white glow of the Olympic rings clearly in sight, and in mind...less than 6 months and counting!
Our dinner at GlobeYVR was based on their summer 100 mile diet program. The dishes were beautifully put together, albeit a bit on the miniscule portion size, but the flavours popped, Since our friends do not eat some of the ingredients, we were beneficiaries of many assorted tastes. The one damper was that they did not bring out two of the orders without one requested and confirmed ingredient. Since they had already served two of us, they should never have taken away the whole plate for 15 or 20 minutes, leaving half of us to try to dawdle or eat cold food, and never updating us or offering them the other presentations on the same plate. Especially for the price, and how slow the restaurant was, this was unthinkable...but we shared and managed.
On the way back from the airport, we were met by translink staff answering questions and helping as well as watching over ticket purchases. We were pleasantly surprised by the number of fellow passengers, most of which clearly were on a joy ride with no luggage and a few airport staff. There were two young men from Quebec, and when the transit policeman came over for the tickets, apparently one had one and the other either could not find his, or did not have one...taking a 5050 chance I guess. These officers have guns, and the power to insist that they get off the train and they get fingerprinted and the fine (in case you were wondering) is $250!
This definitely generated a lot of discussion on the train, but we think that after scaring them, considering that they were definitely non English speakers and from out of town, they were sent to buy that second ticket...being given a second chance.
So if you are thinking of passing on the ticket purchase, think again!
Once again as the train left the two young men, the officer and the station, we were whisked away into the evening with the white glow of the Olympic rings clearly in sight, and in mind...less than 6 months and counting!
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Vancouver is on the right track
Today was the inauguration of the first Canadian airport to Downtown light rapid transit service. From 1 pm to 9pm today, Vancouverites took to the subterranean depths to take part in today's festivities and free rides. Despite a few glitches, like not anticipating how many joy riders there would be, meaning people were riding to the end and back and not getting off, meant that there were very long line ups. It also meant that the special inaugural passports were gone by 430 in the afternoon.
Having recently been in New York and Geneva (where hotel guests get free transportation for their entire stay) our station and the tracks were, of course, immaculate. Hopefully Vancouver's reputation for being a super clean city will extend below the city too. Geneva also has no turnstiles, just the same honor system. I was impressed in Geneva and the car design with lots of seats and standing room, and multiple handrails looks great, although I am not sure about when lots of people have luggage, as there was no luggage rack or overhead racks on the trains we were on.
The ride was smooth, fun and fast. The large window at the front makes for a real experience as you are rounding corners, especially under ground. There is a distinct sense of the rise and fall of levels as you plunge under the water and under ground, and an almost blinding emergence.
Having decided more than a year ago, to make do with using only one of our cars, I can definitely see myself along with many others hopping a ride to many places on my list.
I am happy though that I do not have to use it tomorrow as I think that the lineups for buying tickets will be pretty long... Think I will go and buy a multiple pass before I need it!
All aboard!
Monday, August 17, 2009
Unlimited Travel for 1 Month with Jet Blue
Enjoy unlimited travel with our All-You-Can-Jet Pass! For just $599* you can take JetBlue anywhere you like, as often as you like, from September 8 to October 8, 2009. Use your All-You-Can-Jet Pass for business, for pleasure, to visit your favorite cities or to meet with a client. You might as well just do it all! With more than 50 cities to choose from, and for just $599, it's a deal you can't pass up.
About the Pass
$599 for a month of unlimited travel, any available seat
Domestic taxes and fees included
International and Puerto Rico taxes and fees not included
On sale through Friday, August 21, 2009, or while supplies last
Travel Dates: Tuesday, September 8, 2009 through Thursday, October 8, 2009
Each flight must be booked no later than 11:59 p.m. MDT three days prior to the flight's scheduled departure.
Nonrefundable/nontransferable/no name changes permitted
Customers who already have a flight booked during the pass travel period can pay the difference to upgrade to the pass by calling 1-800-JETBLUE (538-2583), prompt 4.
Each All-You-Can-Jet Pass is eligible for 35 TrueBlue points. Flights booked on the pass are not available for additional TrueBlue points.
To purchase an All-You-Can-Jet Pass:
Call 1-800-JETBLUE (538-2583), option 4. You do not have to be a TrueBlue member at the time of purchase, but a TrueBlue number is required to book all flights.To join TrueBlue, click here; it's free.
To book flights with your All-You-Can-Jet Pass:
Before calling to reserve your flight, please visit jetblue.com to check availability and select flight times.
Call 1-800-JETBLUE (538-2583), prompt 4.
Provide your pass number which is your original reservation number.
Provide your TrueBlue number.
You may only book one flight per city per day; if a violation of this policy is found, JetBlue will honor only the last booking made and cancel the customer's other bookings from that city on that day.
Each flight must be booked no later than 11:59 p.m. MDT three days prior to the flight's scheduled departure.
You can change/cancel flights for no fee with three (3) or more days notice; changes or cancellations to flight bookings made after 11:59 p.m. MDT three days prior to the flight's scheduled departure will be charged standard JetBlue change/cancel fees.
To change or cancel All-You-Can-Jet Pass travel:
Greater than three (3) days before a flight: $0 change/cancellation fees
Less than three (3) days before a flight: JetBlue's standard change/cancel fees apply
In the case of a no-show, the customer's pass will be placed on hold, any reserved pass flights will be canceled, and no new flight segments wil be able to be booked until the customer pays a $100 no-show penalty.
*Other important restrictions apply. For complete details, please read the Full Terms and Conditions.
*Offer ends 8/21/09, or earlier at JetBlue's discretion. Pass includes unlimited coach class air travel for one person on JetBlue-operated flights between any cities in the JetBlue route network. Valid for travel between 9/8/09 and 10/8/09. Each flight must be booked no later than 11:59 p.m. MDT three days prior to the flight's scheduled departure. Changes or cancellations of flight bookings made after 11:59 p.m. MDT three days prior to the flight's scheduled departure will incur a $100 change/cancel fee. "No shows" for flights will incur a $100 fee, with Pass suspension until fee is paid. Passes may be used only to book new travel and may not be applied to existing reservations. Travel is subject to availability and seats may not be available on all flights. Passes may not be used for code share or interline flights, Getaways packages, Cruises, Gift Cards, or other products and services. Pass does not include taxes and fees applicable to international or Puerto Rico travel, including without limitation (a) Passenger Facility Charges of up to $9.00 each way, (b) September 11th Security Fees of up to $2.50 per enplanement at a U.S. originating airport, (c) Federal Segment Taxes of $3.60 per domestic segment (a segment is a takeoff and landing), (d) in the case of international travel, government fees and taxes of up to $127.60 each way, and (e) in the case of Puerto Rico travel, a US Departure Tax of $16.10 each way. All taxes and fees must be paid at the time of travel booking. Passes are non-refundable. Passes and Pass travel are non-transferable. A second bag fee of $30 applies. Other restrictions apply; see Terms and Conditions for complete details. © 2009 JetBlue Airways
About the Pass
$599 for a month of unlimited travel, any available seat
Domestic taxes and fees included
International and Puerto Rico taxes and fees not included
On sale through Friday, August 21, 2009, or while supplies last
Travel Dates: Tuesday, September 8, 2009 through Thursday, October 8, 2009
Each flight must be booked no later than 11:59 p.m. MDT three days prior to the flight's scheduled departure.
Nonrefundable/nontransferable/no name changes permitted
Customers who already have a flight booked during the pass travel period can pay the difference to upgrade to the pass by calling 1-800-JETBLUE (538-2583), prompt 4.
Each All-You-Can-Jet Pass is eligible for 35 TrueBlue points. Flights booked on the pass are not available for additional TrueBlue points.
To purchase an All-You-Can-Jet Pass:
Call 1-800-JETBLUE (538-2583), option 4. You do not have to be a TrueBlue member at the time of purchase, but a TrueBlue number is required to book all flights.To join TrueBlue, click here; it's free.
To book flights with your All-You-Can-Jet Pass:
Before calling to reserve your flight, please visit jetblue.com to check availability and select flight times.
Call 1-800-JETBLUE (538-2583), prompt 4.
Provide your pass number which is your original reservation number.
Provide your TrueBlue number.
You may only book one flight per city per day; if a violation of this policy is found, JetBlue will honor only the last booking made and cancel the customer's other bookings from that city on that day.
Each flight must be booked no later than 11:59 p.m. MDT three days prior to the flight's scheduled departure.
You can change/cancel flights for no fee with three (3) or more days notice; changes or cancellations to flight bookings made after 11:59 p.m. MDT three days prior to the flight's scheduled departure will be charged standard JetBlue change/cancel fees.
To change or cancel All-You-Can-Jet Pass travel:
Greater than three (3) days before a flight: $0 change/cancellation fees
Less than three (3) days before a flight: JetBlue's standard change/cancel fees apply
In the case of a no-show, the customer's pass will be placed on hold, any reserved pass flights will be canceled, and no new flight segments wil be able to be booked until the customer pays a $100 no-show penalty.
*Other important restrictions apply. For complete details, please read the Full Terms and Conditions.
*Offer ends 8/21/09, or earlier at JetBlue's discretion. Pass includes unlimited coach class air travel for one person on JetBlue-operated flights between any cities in the JetBlue route network. Valid for travel between 9/8/09 and 10/8/09. Each flight must be booked no later than 11:59 p.m. MDT three days prior to the flight's scheduled departure. Changes or cancellations of flight bookings made after 11:59 p.m. MDT three days prior to the flight's scheduled departure will incur a $100 change/cancel fee. "No shows" for flights will incur a $100 fee, with Pass suspension until fee is paid. Passes may be used only to book new travel and may not be applied to existing reservations. Travel is subject to availability and seats may not be available on all flights. Passes may not be used for code share or interline flights, Getaways packages, Cruises, Gift Cards, or other products and services. Pass does not include taxes and fees applicable to international or Puerto Rico travel, including without limitation (a) Passenger Facility Charges of up to $9.00 each way, (b) September 11th Security Fees of up to $2.50 per enplanement at a U.S. originating airport, (c) Federal Segment Taxes of $3.60 per domestic segment (a segment is a takeoff and landing), (d) in the case of international travel, government fees and taxes of up to $127.60 each way, and (e) in the case of Puerto Rico travel, a US Departure Tax of $16.10 each way. All taxes and fees must be paid at the time of travel booking. Passes are non-refundable. Passes and Pass travel are non-transferable. A second bag fee of $30 applies. Other restrictions apply; see Terms and Conditions for complete details. © 2009 JetBlue Airways
Unlimited Travel for 1 Month with Jet Blue
Enjoy unlimited travel with our All-You-Can-Jet Pass! For just $599* you can take JetBlue anywhere you like, as often as you like, from September 8 to October 8, 2009. Use your All-You-Can-Jet Pass for business, for pleasure, to visit your favorite cities or to meet with a client. You might as well just do it all! With more than 50 cities to choose from, and for just $599, it's a deal you can't pass up.
About the Pass
$599 for a month of unlimited travel, any available seat
Domestic taxes and fees included
International and Puerto Rico taxes and fees not included
On sale through Friday, August 21, 2009, or while supplies last
Travel Dates: Tuesday, September 8, 2009 through Thursday, October 8, 2009
Each flight must be booked no later than 11:59 p.m. MDT three days prior to the flight's scheduled departure.
Nonrefundable/nontransferable/no name changes permitted
Customers who already have a flight booked during the pass travel period can pay the difference to upgrade to the pass by calling 1-800-JETBLUE (538-2583), prompt 4.
Each All-You-Can-Jet Pass is eligible for 35 TrueBlue points. Flights booked on the pass are not available for additional TrueBlue points.
To purchase an All-You-Can-Jet Pass:
Call 1-800-JETBLUE (538-2583), option 4. You do not have to be a TrueBlue member at the time of purchase, but a TrueBlue number is required to book all flights.To join TrueBlue, click here; it's free.
To book flights with your All-You-Can-Jet Pass:
Before calling to reserve your flight, please visit jetblue.com to check availability and select flight times.
Call 1-800-JETBLUE (538-2583), prompt 4.
Provide your pass number which is your original reservation number.
Provide your TrueBlue number.
You may only book one flight per city per day; if a violation of this policy is found, JetBlue will honor only the last booking made and cancel the customer's other bookings from that city on that day.
Each flight must be booked no later than 11:59 p.m. MDT three days prior to the flight's scheduled departure.
You can change/cancel flights for no fee with three (3) or more days notice; changes or cancellations to flight bookings made after 11:59 p.m. MDT three days prior to the flight's scheduled departure will be charged standard JetBlue change/cancel fees.
To change or cancel All-You-Can-Jet Pass travel:
Greater than three (3) days before a flight: $0 change/cancellation fees
Less than three (3) days before a flight: JetBlue's standard change/cancel fees apply
In the case of a no-show, the customer's pass will be placed on hold, any reserved pass flights will be canceled, and no new flight segments wil be able to be booked until the customer pays a $100 no-show penalty.
*Other important restrictions apply. For complete details, please read the Full Terms and Conditions.
*Offer ends 8/21/09, or earlier at JetBlue's discretion. Pass includes unlimited coach class air travel for one person on JetBlue-operated flights between any cities in the JetBlue route network. Valid for travel between 9/8/09 and 10/8/09. Each flight must be booked no later than 11:59 p.m. MDT three days prior to the flight's scheduled departure. Changes or cancellations of flight bookings made after 11:59 p.m. MDT three days prior to the flight's scheduled departure will incur a $100 change/cancel fee. "No shows" for flights will incur a $100 fee, with Pass suspension until fee is paid. Passes may be used only to book new travel and may not be applied to existing reservations. Travel is subject to availability and seats may not be available on all flights. Passes may not be used for code share or interline flights, Getaways packages, Cruises, Gift Cards, or other products and services. Pass does not include taxes and fees applicable to international or Puerto Rico travel, including without limitation (a) Passenger Facility Charges of up to $9.00 each way, (b) September 11th Security Fees of up to $2.50 per enplanement at a U.S. originating airport, (c) Federal Segment Taxes of $3.60 per domestic segment (a segment is a takeoff and landing), (d) in the case of international travel, government fees and taxes of up to $127.60 each way, and (e) in the case of Puerto Rico travel, a US Departure Tax of $16.10 each way. All taxes and fees must be paid at the time of travel booking. Passes are non-refundable. Passes and Pass travel are non-transferable. A second bag fee of $30 applies. Other restrictions apply; see Terms and Conditions for complete details. © 2009 JetBlue Airways
Friday, August 14, 2009
An Exclusive Ethiopian Experience October 2009
For any of you who ever wanted to travel with an amazing diplomat and statesman to a country most people only read about, here is a fantastic opportunity to travel to ETHIOPIA with retired Israeli Ambassador Asher Naim, who is also the 2009 recipient of the Raoul Wallenberg Prize.
Ambassador Naim will not only share an uncensored and insider view of current Ethiopia as well as the very amazing and exciting story of the 1991 Operation Solomon which resulted in a Guiness Book of Records airlift of almost 15,000 Falashmura (Black Jews) from Ethiopia to Israel in 25 hours. His book Saving the Lost Tribe:The Rescue and Redemption of the Ethiopian Jews, is a compelling story which gives us an insiders glimpse into the real process of dealing with high stakes international incidents. The trip will take place mid October. Call or email for more information.
Ambassador Naim will not only share an uncensored and insider view of current Ethiopia as well as the very amazing and exciting story of the 1991 Operation Solomon which resulted in a Guiness Book of Records airlift of almost 15,000 Falashmura (Black Jews) from Ethiopia to Israel in 25 hours. His book Saving the Lost Tribe:The Rescue and Redemption of the Ethiopian Jews, is a compelling story which gives us an insiders glimpse into the real process of dealing with high stakes international incidents. The trip will take place mid October. Call or email for more information.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Passionate Travel
It seems like I have barely slept in my own bed for the last few months, with a whirlwind of travel and happily all for good reasons. My travels have taken me to several times to New York and Seattle, and also to Los Angeles,Vietnam, Cambodia, San Francisco, Philadelphia, London, Paris, the South of France, Budapest, and the least touristed but most hospitable countries of Albania and twice to Kosova (Kosovo to the rest of the world except Albanians), and for a very fast but exciting day and a half in Geneva Switzerland which took me to meet with representatives for a major pharmaseutical company and hospital about the book that my grandson and I wrote about his experience with type 1 diabetes.
I also just returned from a cruise with my family to Alaska and Victoria, BC. We celebrated 4 birthdays, 3 anniversaries and had a really special family bonding. It has been many years since we first took our two young children on their first cruise on board Royal Viking where they were the only two children on board. I am thrilled to say that the magic is still there as we initiated a new generation to the joys of cruising and spending all sorts of quality family time together.
I am also thrilled to be coordinating an amazing trip to Ethiopia with the former Israeli Ambassador to Ethiopia planned for October, to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Falashmura (Black Jews) exodus from Ethiopia-and there is still space for a few lucky people who want to literally travel through history with one of the most amazing statesmen of our time. For 2010, we will also be scheduling trips to the Far East and to the Baltic where his tenure there helped to shape some of the most dramatic events and small groups of lucky participants will be able to learn from him how to make the word more powerful than the sword. Please contact me if you are interested in participating in any of these special unique travel experiences.
My own personal journey has been something that I could never have even remotely imagined in my wildest dreams when I set out to try to make a difference in the world every day.
I truly have been blessed to be working on some amazing humanitarian projects, especially the Eye Contact Foundation, whose current project Panha's work which highlights the largely untold story of Albanian/Kosovo Besa (their code of honor which literally translates as "keeping the promise") currently has at least 6 photo exhibitions travelling the world, is currently up for Jewish Fine Arts Book of the Year by the Jewish Book Council, and whose movie God's House should hit the big screen by the beginning of 2010. The Founder, Norman H Gershman has taken his passion for photography and a love of Jewish life coupled with a desire to honor those who risked their lives to save people and has done what many others could not do, bring Jews, Muslims and Christians to look towards each other with a caring eye, searching for goodness.
In New York and Cambodia, I was privileged to work with Panha Ou of Amazing Angkor Tours and Jenni Lippa who have respectively set up the Cambodian Child Dream Organization, and in North America Friends of CCDO. Panha's work in the area around Siem Reap with providing clean water from reliable wells for communities in need, providing education, training, food and shelter for over 70 children in the Little Angels orphanage, is nothing short of incredible and most inspiring. I would like you to know what a difference as little as $125-150 a year can make to the children in the orphanage, or up to 40 people who are the beneficiary of a well that ends up providing so much more than just clean water. I just shared with my condo where I was going at our end of year get-together, and they helped me travel with one whole suitcase full of school and personal supplies for the children of the orphanage and the other children we met all along the way.
I have stayed in some incredible properties around the world, and even more memorable were some of the hoteliers, whose passions for hospitality runs through their veins, and goes directly to their hearts-in their desire to please their guests and also give back to their communities. Special Kudos goes to Nick Downing at Hotel de la Paix in Siem Reap, which is happily now a well deserving Virtuoso property. Their agreement with Mastercard has resulted in hundreds of bicycles being donated to needy children. In New York, Muyo Pereszic not only is overseeing a total renovation and upgrading of the Kimberly Hotel, including a new Rooftop bar, but still managed to find time to help and welcome some most promising up and coming young entrepreneurs from Albania and Kosovo.
I have also been travelling a lot by boat...or rather a most unusual assortment of water crafts, including a river boat up some very unusual and isolated areas along the Mekong River between Vietnam and Cambodia. Then a few weeks ago, I spent a week with six other people from around the world on a small Dutch owned barge along the most southern parts of the Canal Du Midi, in record weather so hot, that even the flamingos took refuge away from the heat and their normal habitat. On the barge I was privileged to meet and spend time with the recipient of the Order of Australia, a neurokinesiologist, Margaret Stuart.
Then last week, we took a major turn and spent a week with our family, children and grandchildren as we sailed on board the Celebrity Infinity. For one glorious week, the weather was spectacular as 8 of us sailed from Seattle to the ports of Ketchikan, Juneau, cruising through Hubbard Glacier and Victoria. We shared the boat with another 2092 people. The crew was so accomodating for Jared's special dietary needs as a type 1 diabetic. His face upon seeing a special no sugar baked alaska and Maya's prize winning seaworthy vessel were definitely top 10 material, although catching fish in Ketchikan as they jumped all around our boat, seeing the fish ladders, the Mendenhall Glacier, the Hubbard Glacier and the wildlife plus a fantastic two hour vintage car ride through Victoria will forever be part of the family lore.
My time in Kosovo was nothing short of extraordinary. It has actually been 10 years since the war in Kosovo, and in the course of tracking down people involved in helping tens of thousands of refugee children, I was privy to some of the most inspiring people I have even met, including the former Deputy Prime Minister, a man currently a member of the parliament, who for 14 years was imprisoned an tortured strictly because of his political views, school pricinciples, heads of communities, the family of Mustafa Rezniqi, who The Eye Contact Foundation helped Yad Vashem recognize as the first righteous family in Kosovo, an American-Israeli psychologist who has, since the war, been responsible for most of the growth and development of the field of psychology in Kosova. I also met with government officials to try to help develop sports tourism in Albania and Kosova in order to help them grow their tourism in a positive and sustainable way. Most of all, I was impressed with a very dedicated group of young people, journalists, students, translators, teachers, entrepreneurs, film makers, authors and entrepreneurs who willed things to happen, and miraculously they did. They are truly these country's future and living proof that Besa is still alive and well.
It seems hard to believe that just a scant year ago, I was not getting too far with a new full hip replacement and just two years ago that Jared was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. I am filled with love and gratitude for everyone who has shared my journey, and who is allowing me to share my passions with them in a way that along with my family and my clients who love to travel passionately will reach out and in turn, touch someone else with the gift of sharing and caring.
Remember to always let your passions be your guide!
Photos and much more to come....
I also just returned from a cruise with my family to Alaska and Victoria, BC. We celebrated 4 birthdays, 3 anniversaries and had a really special family bonding. It has been many years since we first took our two young children on their first cruise on board Royal Viking where they were the only two children on board. I am thrilled to say that the magic is still there as we initiated a new generation to the joys of cruising and spending all sorts of quality family time together.
I am also thrilled to be coordinating an amazing trip to Ethiopia with the former Israeli Ambassador to Ethiopia planned for October, to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Falashmura (Black Jews) exodus from Ethiopia-and there is still space for a few lucky people who want to literally travel through history with one of the most amazing statesmen of our time. For 2010, we will also be scheduling trips to the Far East and to the Baltic where his tenure there helped to shape some of the most dramatic events and small groups of lucky participants will be able to learn from him how to make the word more powerful than the sword. Please contact me if you are interested in participating in any of these special unique travel experiences.
My own personal journey has been something that I could never have even remotely imagined in my wildest dreams when I set out to try to make a difference in the world every day.
I truly have been blessed to be working on some amazing humanitarian projects, especially the Eye Contact Foundation, whose current project Panha's work which highlights the largely untold story of Albanian/Kosovo Besa (their code of honor which literally translates as "keeping the promise") currently has at least 6 photo exhibitions travelling the world, is currently up for Jewish Fine Arts Book of the Year by the Jewish Book Council, and whose movie God's House should hit the big screen by the beginning of 2010. The Founder, Norman H Gershman has taken his passion for photography and a love of Jewish life coupled with a desire to honor those who risked their lives to save people and has done what many others could not do, bring Jews, Muslims and Christians to look towards each other with a caring eye, searching for goodness.
In New York and Cambodia, I was privileged to work with Panha Ou of Amazing Angkor Tours and Jenni Lippa who have respectively set up the Cambodian Child Dream Organization, and in North America Friends of CCDO. Panha's work in the area around Siem Reap with providing clean water from reliable wells for communities in need, providing education, training, food and shelter for over 70 children in the Little Angels orphanage, is nothing short of incredible and most inspiring. I would like you to know what a difference as little as $125-150 a year can make to the children in the orphanage, or up to 40 people who are the beneficiary of a well that ends up providing so much more than just clean water. I just shared with my condo where I was going at our end of year get-together, and they helped me travel with one whole suitcase full of school and personal supplies for the children of the orphanage and the other children we met all along the way.
I have stayed in some incredible properties around the world, and even more memorable were some of the hoteliers, whose passions for hospitality runs through their veins, and goes directly to their hearts-in their desire to please their guests and also give back to their communities. Special Kudos goes to Nick Downing at Hotel de la Paix in Siem Reap, which is happily now a well deserving Virtuoso property. Their agreement with Mastercard has resulted in hundreds of bicycles being donated to needy children. In New York, Muyo Pereszic not only is overseeing a total renovation and upgrading of the Kimberly Hotel, including a new Rooftop bar, but still managed to find time to help and welcome some most promising up and coming young entrepreneurs from Albania and Kosovo.
I have also been travelling a lot by boat...or rather a most unusual assortment of water crafts, including a river boat up some very unusual and isolated areas along the Mekong River between Vietnam and Cambodia. Then a few weeks ago, I spent a week with six other people from around the world on a small Dutch owned barge along the most southern parts of the Canal Du Midi, in record weather so hot, that even the flamingos took refuge away from the heat and their normal habitat. On the barge I was privileged to meet and spend time with the recipient of the Order of Australia, a neurokinesiologist, Margaret Stuart.
Then last week, we took a major turn and spent a week with our family, children and grandchildren as we sailed on board the Celebrity Infinity. For one glorious week, the weather was spectacular as 8 of us sailed from Seattle to the ports of Ketchikan, Juneau, cruising through Hubbard Glacier and Victoria. We shared the boat with another 2092 people. The crew was so accomodating for Jared's special dietary needs as a type 1 diabetic. His face upon seeing a special no sugar baked alaska and Maya's prize winning seaworthy vessel were definitely top 10 material, although catching fish in Ketchikan as they jumped all around our boat, seeing the fish ladders, the Mendenhall Glacier, the Hubbard Glacier and the wildlife plus a fantastic two hour vintage car ride through Victoria will forever be part of the family lore.
My time in Kosovo was nothing short of extraordinary. It has actually been 10 years since the war in Kosovo, and in the course of tracking down people involved in helping tens of thousands of refugee children, I was privy to some of the most inspiring people I have even met, including the former Deputy Prime Minister, a man currently a member of the parliament, who for 14 years was imprisoned an tortured strictly because of his political views, school pricinciples, heads of communities, the family of Mustafa Rezniqi, who The Eye Contact Foundation helped Yad Vashem recognize as the first righteous family in Kosovo, an American-Israeli psychologist who has, since the war, been responsible for most of the growth and development of the field of psychology in Kosova. I also met with government officials to try to help develop sports tourism in Albania and Kosova in order to help them grow their tourism in a positive and sustainable way. Most of all, I was impressed with a very dedicated group of young people, journalists, students, translators, teachers, entrepreneurs, film makers, authors and entrepreneurs who willed things to happen, and miraculously they did. They are truly these country's future and living proof that Besa is still alive and well.
It seems hard to believe that just a scant year ago, I was not getting too far with a new full hip replacement and just two years ago that Jared was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. I am filled with love and gratitude for everyone who has shared my journey, and who is allowing me to share my passions with them in a way that along with my family and my clients who love to travel passionately will reach out and in turn, touch someone else with the gift of sharing and caring.
Remember to always let your passions be your guide!
Photos and much more to come....
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