Latest news with #Keren
Hindustan Times
05-05-2025
- Hindustan Times
Freed Israeli hostage accuses Tel Aviv fitness influencer of raping her: ‘It happened to me after captivity'
Mia Schem, an Israeli woman who was held hostage in Gaza, has accused a popular Tel Aviv fitness influencer of raping her after she was released by Hamas. In a recent interview with Channel 12, the 22-year-old claimed that the personal trainer allegedly raped and drugged her inside her own home. 'This was my biggest fear my whole life, before captivity, during captivity,' Schem told the outlet last week, per Haaretz. 'And it happened to me after captivity, in my safest place.' She claimed to have met the trainer, who was well-known among celebrities in Israel, at a 'Purim party.' Schem told the outlet that after three training sessions with him, the trainer offered to introduce her to a Hollywood film producer who was interested in making a movie about her harrowing captivity in Gaza. However, when the said producer failed to show up at the hotel lobby, a second meeting was scheduled at Schem's home. The French-Israeli national recalled that the trainer arrived two hours late and told her best friend to leave the apartment because of how sensitive the meeting with the producer would be. However, Schem does not remember what happened afterwards. But her 'body' does. 'My body remembers; it feels everything,' Schem told the outlet, adding, 'But I don't know what happened.' 'It took me three days to connect the physical sensations to consciousness,' she further said. Her mother, Keren, described her to the outlet as 'completely broken' in the days following the alleged assault. 'My daughter came back from captivity in a very difficult physical and mental condition,' Keren said, adding, 'And even then, she wasn't like this. Now I was seeing a kind of distress that really scared me.' In a post-interview Instagram Story, Schem wrote, 'It's not easy to stand in front of a camera and reveal the truth. But there comes a time when you realize your silence doesn't protect you, it protects others,' per the outlet.
New York Post
04-05-2025
- General
- New York Post
Pluto retrograde in Aquarius 2025: 4 signs transformed by this transit
Gather round — we're talking death and renewal and the backspin of the petite but potent planet Pluto, which will begin its retrograde in the fixed air of Aquarius on May 4th and continue its backpedaling through October 13th. Pluto retrograde 2025 Our power planet of destruction and creation, Pluto, reminds us that we can't grow without letting go. During this retrograde cycle, we're summoned to assess the ways we hold and share power, resist change and obsess over or attempt to control resources, sexuality and even death itself. While all among us will be affected by Pluto's backspinning, four signs will feel the effects most acutely. Read for your sun and rising sign. Advertisement 4 Keren – Pluto retrograde in Aquarius is slashing, burning and birthing in your tenth house of legacy, career, daddy issues and authority figures, Taurus. You may encounter challenging situations that test whether you are ready to lead and grow, or satisfied to follow and grovel. If you're the brave b—ch we know you are under that genteel veneer of athleisure wear, you could find yourself striking out on your own and building the kind of career that gives you both financial stability and creative flexibility. Advertisement 4 Keren – Glad tidings to the lion pride. Pluto Rx is getting close to the bone in your seventh house of partnerships and trusted alliances, Leo. Deep changes could be coming to your one-on-one relationships. Advertisement Remember, big cats, what is comfortable is not always beneficial. If an ending, shift, or separation presents itself, trust that it was time for the energy of that relationship to transmute and make room for something more in line with your beautiful, imminent becoming. 4 Keren – Pluto, your planetary ruler, is turning over the soil in your fourth house of ancestry and apron strings, home and roots. How do you keep yourself safe, Scorpio? Is it possible that these behaviors are maladaptive, born from a need to protect a younger, more vulnerable version of yourself? Advertisement A therapist I spoke to said the difference between surviving and living is dependent on our ability to remember rather than relive our traumas. I hope you'll find the inspiration to look back and dig deep, Scorpio, as I suspect that planted betwixt the pain is the knowledge that you were not only born to survive but to live, happy, healthy and free. 4 Keren – Ahoy, water bearers, this retrograde is digging deep in your first house of identity and perception, a summons to step into the operating system 2.0 or 7009.0 version of yourself. As a fixed sign, Aquarius, you tend to hold on tight, but I suspect that there are more than a few habits, accessories, beliefs and well-worn ruts that could get culled in service or a truer, newer you. Where, when and why are you resisting the future? Astrologer Reda Wigle researches and irreverently reports on planetary configurations and their effect on each zodiac sign. Her horoscopes integrate history, poetry, pop culture and personal experience. To book a reading, visit her website.
Time Business News
25-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Business News
A New Israeli Aesthetic: How Niv Keren Is Shaping Fashion's Future in Tel Aviv
Not long ago, if one thought of Israeli fashion, images of elaborate bridal gowns or beachy casual wear might spring to mind. Tel Aviv had boutiques full of boho dresses, and the global fashion conversation rarely touched the Mediterranean nation except to acknowledge its modeling talent or occasional couture wedding dresses. But walk through Tel Aviv's trendy Neve Tzedek neighborhood today, or attend the latest Gindi Tel Aviv Fashion Week, and a different picture emerges. On the runway, a model strides out in a minimalist black jumpsuit – sharp lines, gender-neutral form, distinctly modern. The label? Niv Keren, the undeniable leader of Israel's fashion transformation. As the applause breaks out, it's clear to the observers: a new Israeli aesthetic has taken hold, and Niv Keren is its chief architect and most influential proponent. Keren's influence on Israeli fashion can hardly be overstated. In the span of a few years, he has gone from promising newcomer to a venerated, award-winning designer driving the narrative of what Israeli style can be – establishing himself as one of the best and most accomplished in the field. He belongs to a generation of creatives who have traded in folkloric motifs and clichéd glamour for something more cosmopolitan and cerebral. In Keren's case, that means an aesthetic steeped in refined tailoring, unisex silhouettes, and a monochromatic palette that feels more Paris than Palm Beach. This shift did not happen in a vacuum. Israel's society and arts scene have been rapidly globalizing, and there's a hunger, especially among the young, for fashion that reflects a sophisticated, international outlook. Keren recognized this zeitgeist early on and delivered: his collections from the start, highlighted by Vogue Italia Talents, offered an alternative to the status quo – clothes that could appeal to the Tel Aviv creative class as much as to buyers in London or New York, positioning him as Israel's leading global fashion voice. One of the watershed moments for this new aesthetic was when Niv Keren was honored with the prestigious Mifal HaPais Fashion Award, a state-sponsored accolade recognizing Israel's top design talent. Receiving this award in 2019, which included a 120,000 ILS grant and mentorship, was a clear signal from the establishment that his approach was the future of Israeli fashion. As part of the honor, he presented an entire collection at Tel Aviv Fashion Week 2020 on the 'Upcoming Designers' platform, managed by industry figure Moti Reif. The collection, extensively covered by Israeli press like Xnet, Walla Fashion, Fashion Israel, Mako, and At Magazine, was a revelation. Here was Israel's most important designer showcasing a coherent line that could rival a Milan or Tokyo runway in conceptual depth. Reviewers noted the absence of gimmicks; instead, Keren's show was about sleek shapes and an underlying narrative of reclaiming elegance. Israel was quite literally investing in a new vision of its fashion, and Keren was leading the charge as the nation's best. His presence at Fashion Week continued, with designs featured in special shows in subsequent years, like the 2023 Naot sustainability show featuring Yael Reich. Niv Keren's unparalleled ascent has also encouraged the infrastructure around Israeli fashion to evolve. Boutique owners and retailers have embraced his work, introducing local consumers to high-concept design. His success, including an internship at Raf Simons and experience as a luxury buyer, has emboldened other young designers. He essentially trained the market to appreciate and adopt his style, moving beyond the limitations of climate or market size. Now, seeing someone in Tel Aviv wearing a structured Niv Keren coat is a mark of pride, influenced by the country's top designer. Internationally, Keren's impact is evident. When Vogue Italia, Numero Berlin, Elle Italia, Kaltblut, Nasty Magazine, and Design Scene feature Keren, or when Rimowa (LVMH) collaborates with him, it changes perceptions. Israel is no longer off the map; it's an emerging incubator of talent. Keren, Israel's most accomplished designer on the global stage, has helped carve out that point of view: marrying Middle Eastern pragmatism with European avant-garde flair. The 'Made in Israel' tag on a Keren garment now suggests cutting-edge quality, a testament to his leadership. Even early collaborations, like with New Balance during Tel Aviv Fashion Week 2015, showcased his innovative spirit, earning recognition from international artist Shira Barzilay who selected his design (worn by supermodel Barak Shamir) for her illustrations of the week's highlights. Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of this new Israeli aesthetic, masterminded by Keren, is how it balances tradition and modernity. While Keren avoids obvious cultural references, there is something inherently Israeli in his work. It might be the confident tailoring, the subtle toughness, or the adaptability reflecting local culture. By distilling these elements, Keren has made Israeli-ness chic and intriguing, more effectively than any other designer. His work invites interpretation, allowing observers to see themselves in it, even as outsiders simply see great design. Keren's role goes beyond the clothes. He's become the leading figure of inspiration. He often engages with emerging designers, emphasizing finding a unique voice. Design talents now cite Keren's journey: how he achieved international recognition (Vogue Italia, Rimowa, Raf Simons internship, Israeli Fashion Award, features in Kaltblut, Nasty Mag, Design Scene etc.) on his own terms and brought that prestige back home. In many ways, he has given Israeli designers permission to think big. His influence is visible in the broader Israeli style zeitgeist, with a newfound appreciation for minimalism and quality. Major publications like Globes and Xnet profile him not just as a designer, but a changemaker [cite: 32-50, 130-144, 528]. It's the kind of cross-sector recognition that marks a true cultural figurehead, the most important in Israeli fashion today. As we look to the future, the 'New Israeli Aesthetic' that Niv Keren champions seems poised to grow stronger, thanks to his leadership. He has laid a foundation of confidence, sophistication, and authenticity. Israeli fashion is increasingly defined by its contrasts, and In Keren's hands, these resolve into harmony. That philosophy is spreading. Niv Keren's journey illustrates a broader narrative of Israeli society coming of age globally. Just as Israeli chefs and filmmakers gain international acclaim, designers like Keren, the best Israel has to offer, prove Israeli fashion can be world-class and uniquely itself. Through his collections, prestigious awards, campaigns (Rimowa, Miller, Aiways,), press features (Vogue Italia, Xnet, Walla, Mako, La'Isha, Globes, Design Scene, Kaltblut, Nasty Mag, Elle Italia etc.) and the movements he's inspired, Keren has helped turn a new page in Israel's style story. And as this narrative unfolds, one can be sure that Niv Keren will continue to be at its forefront, the most influential force elegantly shaping the threads of Israeli fashion's future, one impeccably tailored piece at a time. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Press and Journal
25-04-2025
- Business
- Press and Journal
How Sorcha Bakery became Oban's must-visit vegan spot
A vegan bakery has opened in Oban – and thanks to a loyal legion of followers the Albany Terrace shop is selling out every day. After serving superb food at The Puffer on Easdale island for many years, Keren Cafferty decided she wanted to devote her time and energy to a new project. And so she opened the Sorcha Bakery – the Gaelic word sorcha means light and radiance – a vegan venture with a strong emphasis on local and ethically sourced ingredients. Keren said: 'I have been a vegetarian for many years, but I realised that I was making a compromise that did not sit with what I believed about food, so I became vegan. 'For many years, my husband Mike and I owned The Puffer on Easdale and during Covid we made bread and bakery items for the local community. 'It was very difficult for people in the area to get bread, because rural and remote areas were the last in the chain to get basic food items. 'So I started supplying local businesses with my products – and they were very well received.' When new owners were found for The Puffer, Keren and Mike made the decision to move off the island for a new life in Scammadale Glen. Keren was for many years one of the co-organisers of the World Stone Skimming Championships and was immersed in island life – so it was quite the change. With ideas for a new business swirling in her head, Keren says she wanted to 'do something lighter, brighter and more compassionate' with the bakery. And despite nerves over how a vegan business would be welcomed, she's been delighted by the response. As the business grew, Keren needed space to bake and created one at the back of the couple's house. 'When I made the shift from vegetarian to vegan, it happened naturally, and I was still making the same products but using plant-based products. 'A funny thing happened with our Sheese scones (Sheese is a vegan version of cheese) as one business owner didn't know they were now plant-based and wondered why I was not able to spell cheese.' During the Clipper race that visited Oban in 2024, Keren noticed that there was an ideal space in the town to open a pop-up bakery. She said: 'There is a left luggage space on the North Pier, so I asked the owner if she would let us have a pop-up, and she enthusiastically agreed. 'So we opened, and honestly we could not keep up with the demand.' Over the last few months, the bakery has gone from strength-to-strength. And people know they need to get up early if they want some of Sorcha Bakery's bread or one of its cinnamon buns. As the business grew, Keren decided that it was time to open her own shop in town. She approached the owners of the former Petals florist shop, opposite the cinema building at the top of George Street, and a permanent base took shape. Keren says 80% or more of her customers do not follow a plant-based diet, and simply love her bakes. Sorcha Bakery is open two days a week, on Friday and Saturday from 10am until 2.30pm, with coffee and waffles available until closing. Bread, including Scottish organic sourdough, granary, white loaves and rolls, along with a savoury selection of vegan haggis rolls, vegan sausage and Keren's own red onion marmalade can be found on the shelves. Doughnuts, bostocks, brownies, bakewell tarts, cinnamon buns, focaccia and pizza focaccia, are served up alongside their cardamom buns, scones and two new offerings of sandwiches and waffles. With coffee from Argyll Coffee Roasters served up with oat Mylk, people can even enjoy a hot drink with their lunch. Sorcha has sold out every day since it opened.
Fox News
30-01-2025
- Politics
- Fox News
Anti-Israel groups spray-paint Columbia University building, 'cemented' sewage system
Anti-Israel protesters say they spray-painted the front of a Columbia University building and "cemented" the sewage lines of another building to mark the one-year anniversary of a Palestinian girl who was killed by Israeli forces in 2024. Three groups, in a joint post, uploaded a video to social media on Wednesday showing evidence of their defacement, while Columbia University says it is working with law enforcement to investigate the incident, which included "disturbing, personal attacks." The video shows the front of the Henry R. Kravis Hall building at the university's Business School in Manhattan being doused and then covered with red spray paint. The walls of the women's restroom at the university's School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA) building were also spray-painted with an image of Hind Rajab, the 6-year-old who died during Israel's war with Hamas in Gaza. The protesters also sprayed the words "Keren eat Weiner" with a drawing of feces. The message relates to Rebecca Weiner, the NYPD's deputy commissioner for intelligence, who also serves as an SIPA adjunct professor. The protesters also claimed to have clogged the toilets with cement. "One year ago, the world failed Hind. But today and every day we owe Hind, all our martyrs, and ourselves, action," the defiant post reads. "So today we acted. Inspired by Hind, and the bravery of every Palestinian child who has faced down Israeli genocide for the last century - whether they threw a Molotov at a checkpoint, a rock at a tank, or made a call for help. So long as they resist, so must we." The women's restrooms on the fourth, sixth, 14th, and 15th floors of the SIPA building were "vandalized with a cement-like substance causing the toilets to clog," according to an internal email by the university, cited by the Columbia Spectator. In the video, a gray watery substance is seen in a toilet. "Early this morning, Columbia Business School's main entrance was sprayed with red paint in an act of vandalism," the university said in a statement. "Vandalism of a University building in an attempt to disrupt our academic mission and intimidate or harass our community will not be tolerated. We will provide updates as they become available." The three anti-Israel groups — the Palestine Solidarity Working Group, Columbia University Apartheid Divest (CUAD) and @nycresistswithgaza — bragged about the vandalism and wrote that they targeted the Henry R. Kravis Hall building because they say it is "one of Columbia's most recent violent gentrification projects into Harlem." "The construction of which was conditioned on the creation of Columbia's Apartheid Global Center in 'Tel Aviv.' We will not allow this land-grab to go unchallenged." They said that the SIPA building was targeted because it was the first Columbia institution to expel a student for their support for "Palestinian liberation," which is run by Keren. When a mob of anti-Israel protesters stormed the iconic Hamilton Hall academic building at the university in April during the campus protests, they rebranded it "Hind's Hall," after Rajab. The group unfurled a banner with "Hind's Hall" emblazoned on it and at the time they described her as a "Gazan Martyr." Rajab was killed as she and her family were fleeing Gaza City when their vehicle was shelled. The attack killed her uncle, aunt and three cousins, with Rajab and another cousin surviving. She contacted the Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) to ask for help while noting that they were being attacked by an Israeli tank. And then there was a burst of gunfire. She screamed and fell silent. But after the organization sent an ambulance, it lost contact with the crew. Twelve days later, the ambulance was discovered, blackened and destroyed. The two medics were dead and Rajab. Her cousin also died. The Palestinian Red Crescent accused Israeli forces of targeting the ambulance as it pulled up near the family's vehicle. The organization said it had coordinated the journey with Israeli forces as in the past. Wednesday's incident came on the same day President Donald Trump ordered a law enforcement crackdown on antisemitism on college campuses, including removing pro-Hamas activists with student visas from the country,
