Oracle founder and CEO Larry Ellison arrived in Israel yesterday and is staying at the David Citadel Hotel in Jerusalem. A parade of political leaders visited the hotel, which is also hosting a private event for a an 88-year old American Jewish Congressman.
Likud chairman MK Benjamin Netanyahu had breakfast at the hotel yesterday, and President Shimon Peres and Minister of Foreign Affairs Tzipi Livni had dinner. Minister of Transport Shaul Mofaz also made an appearance “to meet some friends”, as he put it.
Ellison had breakfast at the hotel with his wife Melanie Kraft, and afterwards, together with Ellison’s son and several relatives, again met Livni who arranged a tour of kassam rocket battered Sderot. They arrived in the town by helicopter. A member of Ellison’s entourage said, “He only flies.” This person is apparently aware that Ellison recently bought a Russia MiG to add to his colorful collection. A General Security Services man who accompanied Ellison briefed him on the situation in Sderot, and told them that in the event of a security incident, he would make sure to direct the visitors to a safe location.
During the visit, Sderot community center director Avi Suleimani described to Ellison the problem of air raid defenses at the center. Ellison immediately promised to donate the funds needed to protect the community center.
Sources at the David Citadel Hotel, said that Ellison was awed by the view from the balcony that overlooks the Old City. This is the 63-year old Ellison’s first visit to Israel. Dressed in slacks, a grey T-shirt, and sunglasses, he seemed relaxed.
The sources at the hotel were somewhat disappointed that Ellison did not begin his visit with a tour of Jerusalem, but they expect that he will do so early next week. In the meantime, he will probably meet Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and top economic leaders.
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes.co.il - on August 9, 2007
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