Is Bar Refaeli Jewish?

Yes, Bar Refaeli, the Israeli model on the cover of the 2009 Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue, is a Jew.

She commendably is active in charity work - a supporter of the worthy organization, Project Sunshine, founded by the brilliant young financier Joseph Weilgus.

SI cover girl Refaeli nudges her swimsuit south
By SAMANTHA CRITCHELL, AP FASHION WRITER

NEW YORK -- The world knows a lot more about Bar Refaeli today than it did yesterday, including where her tiny tan line falls. Sports Illustrated Swimsuit unveiled the 23-year-old Israeli, who has been romantically linked to Leonardo DiCaprio, as a first-time cover girl on Tuesday.

This gig, more than top fashion or entertainment magazines, can be career-altering as it puts a model's face (not to mention, her fantastically toned body) in front of millions of eyeballs, appealing to both men and women, sports fans and fashionistas.

It's the cover that matters most, says SI group editor Terry McDonell, but each model - 19 for this issue - gets an equal shot at the cover. Refaeli wears a string bikini by Missoni - and the strings on the bikini bottom are being tugged south.

"The cover has to reflect the athleticism and sexiness of the culture. This photo is modern, her hair and swimsuit look natural. You see her freckles. Her body is amazing and she looks intelligent," McDonell said...more...

Sports Illustrated (Orthodox men should not click on this link.)

(repost from 8-14-09)