Israeli Visit...

[APF Report]

Whitney Houston in Israel to record with polygamous desert sect

JERUSALEM (AFP) - US pop diva Whitney Houston arrived in Israel's southern Negev desert to make a recording with the polygamous Black Hebrew sect, Israel army radio reported.

Houston, who arrived with her husband and former singer Bobby Brown and their children, travelled straight to the desert town of Dimona, which is home to the 2,000-strong sect and renowned for being the site of an Israeli nuclear plant.
"I love you all!" she shouted as crowds of fans met her in the remote desert town.

Elders of the Black Hebrews said Houston would be recording a track about Israel with several members of the community, which is known for its choirs and singing groups. The visit was also aimed at sending a message to African Americans that Israel was a safe place to travel to, they added.

Known as the Original African Hebrew Israelite Nation of Jerusalem, the Black Hebrews believe they are descended from one of the lost ten tribes of Israel as mentioned in the Bible. Strict dietary laws forbid the consumption of meat and polygamy is permitted. The group first came to Israel in 1969, and since then, members have earned a living through their celebrated professional gospel choir and rhythm and blues singing troupes.
Two members of the community even represented Israel at the Eurovision Song Contest in 1999. They are also renowned for the brightly-colored clothing they make, and for the vegetarian food they produce at a factory in the area.
 

NEWSFILE: 26 MAY 2003