Commenter Profile

Total number of comments: 406 (since 2009-08-08 22:33:07)

Sand

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• 'I didn't say I liked Beinart's book' -- J Street head sells his star guest out to his antagonist, Goldberg
  • Sand March 24, 2012 at 9:54 pm with 1 replies

    Thomson Rutherford says: "... I would argue that a second motivation for organized Jewish groups in the Diaspora is to safeguard the standing of the Jewish ‘community’ in their home countries..."

    Sounds that way according to Beinart.

    Peter Beinart: What’s wrong with AIPAC? -- “There is nothing wrong with the people themselves. Most AIPAC people are not ideological. They don’t see themselves as right wing. They’re mostly moderate Democrats. They just want to do something for Israel. They want to feel connected to Israel. They go to their synagogue dinner, they go to the Federation dinner, and they go to the AIPAC dinner. But I disagree with AIPAC’s definition of what it means to be pro-Israel. Obviously, they have every right to be involved and engaged, and I feel ambivalent -- because there’s a part of me, as a Jew, who, when I look at the AIPAC conference, says: ‘Wow, we’re good. Who else could do this?’ I feel the same way when I see the list of Nobel Prize winners.

    “But the AIPAC conference is a fantasy of power without responsibility. The whole AIPAC ethos is about the Jewish experience of power. You’re a dentist in Cleveland. Your dad was a liquor-store owner in the Bronx. Your grandfather was a peddler in Riga. Your uncles and aunts and cousins were massacred in the Shoah. Nobody gave a shit about you. You come to AIPAC, and all the politicians come to tell you how great you are, and to tell you what you want to hear. For WASPs, it wouldn’t be such a powerful experience. For Jews, especially older Jews, it’s a very powerful experience, especially when you tell people that you’re using this power to save the Jewish people in the way that your parents and grandparents couldn’t in the 1940s.

    The thrill of 'Jewish Power' -- to be special -- to be chosen?

    Peter Beinart: "...“I want people, non-Jewish Americans, to have opinions about this like they have opinions about anything else. They may be wrong, they may be stupid, they may be ignorant. Let them have their opinions. And don’t call them anti-Semites unless they have a history of animus toward the Jewish people. ..

    Noting: Peter doesn't include that maybe those goys could be Right, and are in fact far from stupid!

    link to haaretz.com

• The Norwegians, the settlers, the zealot, the olive seedlings-- and the Palestinian's suit against 'Nobody'
  • Sand March 18, 2012 at 5:13 pm

    Yes, I too recommend watching 'Defamation' -- a definite eye-opener. Thank you DICKERSON3870 .

• How important is it to the Times (and us) that Greg Smith is Jewish?
  • Sand March 17, 2012 at 7:27 pm

    "...I’m telling you that this road is right down the alley of classic anti-Semitism...

    OK, so after reading a number of Krauss' posts -- what's with the game of smoke and mirrors? Me thinks he doesn't like non-Jews talking about the elephant in the room i.e. 'Jewish Power' -- and so by each post he nudges the idea we should be seen as anti-semitic? That card has been played too many times -- it doesn't work.

  • Sand March 17, 2012 at 7:15 pm

    important note -- 'Jewish left'

  • Sand March 17, 2012 at 7:04 pm

    Krauss: "...Because to some people Jews are a collective hive mind working in concert with each other. I don’t think I need to point out that the leap to outright conspiracies are not far behind once you’ve crossed that threshold..."

    Interesting you said that because that is precisely what I see as the Jewish elites' goal, collaborating with the far too numerous to mention Jewish and Israeli organizations tethered to those elites. You don't think it's their goal to create a Jewish hive mind > that all Jews must worship and/or at least support Israel -- If not, then what do you think their plan is?

    Case in point: (sorry MJ!). I mean look at MJ having to finally climb down in shame(?) from his Israel-Firster expose? Noting he was not only assaulted from the right, but also the left!!! It's like he's being assimilated back into the Borg.

    MJ: "...I shall always choose the Jewish cause. Not blindly, not arbitrarily, but with full knowledge of who I am and where I must be..."

    link to us1.campaign-archive2.com

• Chair of DNC says: 'Israel is our rightful place... a place for us to go'
  • Sand March 17, 2012 at 3:58 pm

    The Quebecois certainly like taking their billions in equalization payments from Canada. Quebec would not be able to survive on its own.

  • Page: 4
  • Sand March 17, 2012 at 3:39 pm

    This (edited) paragraph was supposed to outside of the blockquote:

    "....Why was this woman put in charge of the DNC, when it seems she’s more interested in representing a very specific constituency in her admittedly Israel-centric district — or really does it just seem to fit with her own personal agenda knowing she's on the board of the American Jewish Congress?

    Wish List: It would really help me (and I'm sure others) if there was a 'Preview' button before having to post a comment?

  • Sand March 17, 2012 at 3:21 pm with 1 replies

    Yeah! Or maybe in sydnestel's mind he thinks Israel is the 51st State of the United States. Do you think he would be shocked and offended when we tell him it's NOT?

    This woman was elected to represent all of her 'American' constituents, as well as being promoted as the head of the DNC (noting the power that comes with that!).

    Her oath of office: "...I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office on which I am about to enter: So help me God..."

    I'm amazed she's not been challenged when it's blatantly obvious she appears to spend most of her time lobbying, and advocating for the interests of another State, especially when that State wishes the US to start a war on its behalf. E.g.

    "AJC...June 14, 2011 – Washington – AJC, together with members of the U.S. House of Representatives, will launch the Latino-Jewish Congressional Caucus at an event tonight on Capitol Hill. The establishment of the Latino-Jewish Caucus was strongly supported by AJC’s Latino and Latin America Institute.

    Why was this this woman put in charge of the DNC, when it seems she's more interested in representing very extremely Israel-centric district -- as well seemingly following her own personal agenda? E.g.

    Caucus co-chairs Reps. Xavier Becerra (D-CA), Eliot Engel (D-NY), Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), and Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL) will address the June 14 reception. Also slated to speak are the Israeli and Mexican ambassadors to the U.S. Dozens of Latino and Jewish leaders will be in attendance.

    “The Latino-Jewish Congressional Caucus will provide for further collaborative engagement between U.S. Latinos and Jews on domestic and foreign policy issues of joint interest and concern,” said Dina Siegel Vann, director of AJC’s Latino and Latin American Institute..."

    AJC has pioneered American Jewish relations with Latino communities for decades, working to deepen mutual understanding and to collaborate on key public policy issues, such as immigration reform, free trade agreements with Colombia and Panama, and support for Israel. [but of course!]
    link to ajc.org

    American Jewish Congress: "...The group reportedly lost $21 million of its $24 million endowment in the scheme and Gordon told the Israeli newspaper that the group is out of funding..."

    link to foxnews.com

    Ouch, I bet that hurt.

  • Sand March 16, 2012 at 5:50 pm with 2 replies

    Debbie Wasserman Schultz as well as being the DNC chairman, helped found the National Jewish Democratic Council (NJDC) -- is also on the board of the American Jewish Congress, Southeast Region.

    link to myfloridahouse.gov

    "...The American Jewish Congress is an association of Jewish Americans organized to defend Jewish interests at home and abroad through public policy advocacy - using diplomacy, legislation, and the courts..."
    link to ajcongress.org

    link to ajcongress.org

    Sounds like the organization was involved with Madoff too.

    link to jta.org

• Palestinian and Palestine-solidarity activists issue critique and condemnation of Gilad Atzmon
  • Sand March 17, 2012 at 5:49 pm

    Danaa, Mr 'Powerful' senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee Gary Ackerman is saying bye bye. :)

    However, "...As recently as two weeks ago, Ackerman resisted rumors that he would call it quits, sending a Tweet saying "Republican rumor mill is 100%, Absolutely Wrong. I’m running.”
    link to thejewishweek.com

    But, poof all of a sudden: "Democrat Rep. Gary Ackerman of New York retiring"
    link to usatoday.com

    Oh yeah, and from the above USA Today article:

    "...Last October, Ackerman traveled to Israel to bring home a U.S.-Israeli citizen detained in Egypt for four months and accused of espionage..."

    They neglected to mention that the U.S.-Israeli citizen (Grapel) also "...worked as an intern for the congressman..."
    link to jweekly.com

    Figures. I wonder what the angle is, as well as what Mr Ackerman's next job will be -- e.g. a member of some Israeli think tank?

• Muslim activists give NYPD chief Ray Kelly the cold shoulder
  • Sand March 13, 2012 at 11:25 pm

    "....[Mayor Bloomberg] I’d give him serious props for his stand on the”Ground Zero” mosque last summer, easily the most prominent American politician to defend the mosque....

    That was his 'public' face == now you know what he really thinks and does behind the scenes.

  • Sand March 13, 2012 at 1:34 pm

    Bloomberg:

    "...“I have my own army in the NYPD, which is the seventh biggest army in the world,” Bloomberg said, according to the New York Observer. “I have my own State Department, much to Foggy Bottom’s annoyance. We have the United Nations in New York, and so we have an entree into the diplomatic world that Washington does not have.”

    link to tpmdc.talkingpointsmemo.com

    It's amazing how so alike both Mayor Bloomberg and Netanyahu are...

• The evolution of Peter Beinart
  • Sand March 13, 2012 at 8:03 pm

    Yeah Right! With the main stakeholders who instigated, paid and are attending this event you can believe it's more like:

    1. Israel (Agenda to bomb Iran -- I mean what's new!)
    2. Education (How to market Israel aka Israel propaganda techniques)
    3. Immigration (This is where the real "horsetrading begins)

    I think what's important to note here -- is the BS when we are told the Zionist Lobby only seeks to control and affect Foreign Policy -- but really that's not how the game is played. The Zionist Lobby most definitely has the power in Congress to affect US domestic policy.

    For example: The horsetrading (threats used?) over Obama's Health Care Bill.

    Steve Clemons: Linkage: Iran, Settlements, Health Care & Israel?

    “…David Schenker who directs the Program on Arab Politics at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy.

    “…Schenker, who offered some interesting insights on the show, went on to assert that while he saw no linkage between Israel's settlement expansion and a boost to Iran's regional posture, he suggested there was a linkage between US-Israel relations and getting Obama's health care reform passed.

    What?? Play that again.

    So, David Schenker sees no linkage between what a huge number of observers see as Israel wrecking chances for a credible two state track -- and the use of this grievance by Iran in its support of transnational Arab networks in the region, but nonetheless sees linkage between President Obama's fragile health care reform position and the state of US-Israel relations?! Schenker's view was that Obama couldn't afford to have a testy, strained relationship with Israel because it would cost him support in Congress for his health care legislation.
    link to tpmcafe.talkingpointsmemo.com
    

    backed up by Roger Cohen, former New York Times foreign editor -- noting in Newsweek:

    Cohen: (page 2) "...Our policies up to now have failed. But any adjustment in U.S. policy toward Israel is extremely difficult. There is a state called Florida, with a large Jewish community, a calculation not lost on America's leadership. President Obama, I understand, has been told by some Jewish congressmen, if you want your health bill, step back on Israel..."
    link to thedailybeast.com

  • Sand March 13, 2012 at 2:32 pm with 4 replies

    Lea Nitwit: as soon as the powers that pay well signal it’s koscher; and that may well be never.

    I tend to agree. As I've said before -- many careers have been built (are being built) on 'selling' the lie of a fair '2-state' solution .

    Zionist Jews -- even Anti Zionist Jews who dominate the left (progressive) media -- (present company/blog accepted) rarely face the truth, or unveil that a 2-state solution is DEAD -- and I mean really DEAD. Not could be, or is on life-support, or creeping away for us -- no -- it's DEAD.

    Still, even now we get 'progressive' liberal Jews* (part-time anti-Zionists-- although I'm not really sure who they think they are sometimes?) harping on and wanting to stamp people as anti-semitic for daring to describe the obvious in your face assaults of the ISRAEL-FIRSTER. What -- have they got too many in your family or something?

    * Ben Adler (The Nation), Ben Seder (Ring of Fire), Spencer Ackerman.

    It's creepy that they cannot see the obvious facts in front of them -- unless there is some other factor(s) working underneath? I really would like to know? For example, why haven't these progressive investigative (self-identified) Jews not exposing the Zionist Lobby trying to get the Latino crowd involved to protect Israel? REPUBLICAN Christian Zionists -- ok, but shouldn't you be more concerned about the Latino voters -- the voters who usually votes Democrat?

    STRATEGIC DIALOGUE MARCH 27-28, 2011
    AMERICAN LATINOS & JEWS WORKING TOGETHER ON MUTUAL CONCERNS:
    SHARED HERITAGE, VALUES & VISIONS
    Bridges & Pathways Latino-Jewish Dialogue (with AIPAC of course -- and the White House)
    link to bridgesandpathways.org

    --Attending: Stephanie Valencia
    Associate Director, White House Office of Public Engagement
    link to whitehouse.gov

    This is not news to be explored? - Why is it being ignored? Are there no Israel-Firsters at this 'Strategic' meeting? And then people are shocked and wonder why our Congress supports Israel more than our own President?

• Israel is sucking up all the oxygen in the White House
  • Sand March 13, 2012 at 9:18 pm

    Keith: “The War of Ideas in the Middle East” is turning into “the conformity of opinion regarding the control of US foreign policy by the lobby.”

    Keith, I don't know if you've noticed recently but we currently have on our TVees (in the US anyways) as well as printed media a real hard-on when it comes to wanting a war on Iran.

    So why are you surprised when this blog is focusing rather a lot of time on the power of the I-Lobby? Also, Paul Craig Roberts is no fan of Israel either.

    PCR: "...How is the United States a superpower when it cannot appoint the official who oversees the National Intelligence Estimate without the approval of the Israeli right-wing government and its American agents?

    Conservatives will say, of course, that Israel is the “only democracy in the Middle East.” The question whether Israel, or, for that matter, America, is a democracy is beside the point. The point is that Israel has shown that it can control not merely US foreign policy but also US intelligence policy...

    link to mondoweiss.net

    Why the hell shouldn't this affect our relationship with China? We know it affects our economic ties with Iran.

    Also, you mentioned -- "...the process of off-shoring and de-industrialization which has been going on for over 30 years. The whole process can be summarized as neo-liberal globalization, and involves both privatization and financial penetration and control..." Have you looked into how the DLC was formed approximately 30 years ago? -- How Clinton got involved and other members of the DLC?

    link to rightweb.irc-online.org

    It is complicated -- but many including myself see there's a connection and it's worth exploring.

• Democratic chair Wasserman Schultz said to cancel speech to Muslim voting-rights group under rightwing pressure
  • Sand March 10, 2012 at 12:18 pm with 2 replies

    Krauss. Come on anything in Florida with Islam in the name is going to be described as "radical"!

    Islamic-Foundation-of-South-Florida
    link to salatomatic.com

    RADICAL? Its about as radical as the MANY Jewish federations in Florida -- hmmm -- wonder where their money goes?

    "....Laila Abdelaziz, the Field Coordinator of EMERGE, denounced Israel in a question she posed to President Obama... OMG.

    "...Israeli prisoner Khader Adnan, who according to Israel is a “senior member” of the terrorist group Palestinian Islamic Jihad... Knowing that after all Jonathan Pollard is pure as the driven snow.

    Your link -- where did it come from -- David Horowitz's Israel's 'Terror' List too? Interesting you didn't bother to even research where the list could have come from?

    If you have proof of EMERGE USA having real terrorist connections -- then go for it.

• Warning to Obama: 'The Jewish community will remember in November'
  • Sand March 9, 2012 at 5:58 pm

    Charon: "...The CIA report on the risks of partitioning Palestine mention the powerful Zionist lobbies and make a note that they are not run by Jews..."

    Well, Pat Robertson with his theme park didn't get his way did he.

    Charon: "...Methinks that Christian Zionist fundies are taking credit for being the “Jewish Community” too. That’s my point. And there is a lot of them including several powerful and rich moguls active politically and donating to Israel-firster causes..."

    Links please?

  • Sand March 9, 2012 at 4:49 pm

    No it's not silly at all. Why do think there was a meeting between the Republican Jewish Coalition, Netanyahu, Debbie Wasserman [DNC], and the National Jewish Democratic Council NOT to bring up Israel in the elections?

    link to politico.com

    Or, Weiner losing his seat to Bob Turner:

    "...Mr. Turner capitalized on discontent in some corners of the Jewish community with Mr. Obama’s posture toward Israel and his handling of the Middle East peace process. Former Mayor Edward I. Koch, a Democrat, urged voters to rebuke the president by voting for Mr. Turner.

    The emergence of Israel as an issue was a surprise, because Mr. Weprin is an observant Jew and strong supporter of Israel. But Mr. Weprin’s support in the Orthodox community had already been weakened by his vote to legalize same-sex marriage, and several voters interviewed on Tuesday said the Israel issue was a major factor in their decision to support Mr. Turner, who is Roman Catholic. Mr. Turner repeatedly criticized Mr. Obama on Israel..."

    link to nytimes.com

    Or even the bizarre case of "...several presidents of Orthodox synagogues are urging the Republican-registered members of their respective congregations to switch party affiliation in order to vote for Steve Rothman..." because of Israel. However, do you think that district will vote for Obama?

    link to blog.nj.com

    Strategically, mobilizing the Jewish community into a frenzy about Israel is exactly what the Democrats don't want -- why else is the National Jewish Democratic Council talking 24/7 why Obama is good for the Jews and good for Israel. They don't hide the fact it's an issue!

    link to njdc.org

    Also, if some of the Jewish community can stomach rubbing shoulders with the likes of John Hagee -- then why should they have a problem with rubbing shoulders with Romney eventho' he might do a few posthumous baptisms on the side.

  • Sand March 9, 2012 at 1:38 pm with 1 replies

    However, in 2008:

    September 2008 [AJC Poll] — 2. In politics, as of today, do you consider yourself a Republican, a Democrat, or an Independent?
    56% Democrat, 25% Independent,* 17% Republican, 2% Not Sure

    vs. 38 Independent in 2011. So, it's still a valid question who will they vote for?

    link to ajc.org

  • Sand March 9, 2012 at 1:23 pm

    It's both Annie. Particularly in Florida, New York and California.

  • Sand March 9, 2012 at 1:22 pm

    Yes, but to what end? This needs to be shown on MSM to show the outright threat, but it won't.

  • Sand March 9, 2012 at 12:38 pm with 4 replies

    So, how many American Jews have Obama's back vs Netanyahu? Come on so where are the latest polls? Where will the 38% of American Jewish 'Independents' cast their vote > Republican, or Democrat?

    September 2011 [AJC Poll] -- 5. Do you approve or disapprove of the Netanyahu government's handling of Israel-U.S. relations?
    54% approve of Netanyahu, 32% disapprove and 14 % not sure

    link to ajc.org

    The Economist: Israel, Iran and America
    Auschwitz complex
    link to economist.com

    A MUST READ - Imho. h/t alanhart.net

• 'Forward' joins 'New Yorker' in embracing MJ Rosenberg
  • Sand March 9, 2012 at 12:59 pm

    I don’t want to be too harsh, J Street and the others do good work.

    Huh? J-Street - the ultimate Liberal (cough) Zionist outfit? Their schizophrenic BS press releases they churn out are downright comical at times. Nobody takes them seriously. They just provide cover to the real scum that happens behind the scenes -- and what's really sickening is they know it -- and there's no way they will expose it.

• Netanyahu gives genocidal bible story to Obama
  • Sand March 9, 2012 at 5:47 pm

    Thinking about it -- does anyone know of a "high traffic" blog or even news site that specifically focuses on Christian Zionism and Zionists? On Pat Robertson's page he doesn't even mention Israel?

    link to patrobertson.com
    link to cbn.com

    Advice: Don't go to these sites unless you really have to.

    Have many blogs, community newspapers, news sites etc. etc. etc. etc. can we say specifically focus on Jewish and Israel issues?

  • Sand March 9, 2012 at 5:37 pm

    OK not friends eh! -- maybe business associates a better word? -- who help bring in the $$$?

  • Sand March 7, 2012 at 12:50 pm with 14 replies

    "...The Purim story was used for centuries in classic antisemitic propaganda
    and blood libels...

    Really! Well it seems you don't mind your Christian Zionist friends using it. A bit hypocritical of you I'd say.

    "...Esther and Iran
    Sarah Posner, who reports on Hagee for the American Prospect, writes that, "[b]ased on his end-times prophecy, a supposed love of the Jewish people and the state of Israel, and false claims that Iran is just months away from a viable nuclear weapon, Hagee maintains that confrontation with Iran is necessary to fulfill God’s plan for the future of the world."

    In June, Posner considered the impact of heartland Christocrats fired up against Iran:

    While pundits and politicians in Washington debate the merits of confrontation with Tehran, Hagee and other evangelical leaders plan to activate hundreds of congregations across the country -- many of which boast tens of thousands of members -- to flood congressional inboxes with e-mails at the touch of a button. The message from the heartland, beyond the ken of elites who cannot quite imagine such a decision, will be to strike Iran before it is too late. In an April email to CUFI supporters, Hagee used the story of Esther to mobilize his followers against Iran.

    Esther went before the king when Israel was in a time of crisis because the Hitler of the Old Testament (Haman) planned to exterminate the Jews. Mordecai said to Esther, "For if you remain completely silent at this time...you and your father's house will perish."

    CUFI is exactly in the position of Esther. Israel is in a time of crisis.

    A 21st Century Hitler (the president of Iran) has put in place a plan to exterminate the Jews with nuclear warfare. If we remain completely silent at this time...God's punishment will come to us also.

    The Bible's book of Esther is generally understood to be drama – not a prophetic book. By assigning to CUFI a role as a modern-day Queen Esther, positioned to influence government action (Esther 4:14), Hagee has staked out rather ambitious territory.

    Jewish commentators do not normally attribute such "ouiji board" interpretations to Bible verses. Indeed, Jewish commentators interpret the book of Esther as calling for more responsibility on the part of Jews for their fate. Some commentators suggest that the book may be a sly letter from the Jewish Diaspora claiming that people in the Babylonian Exile (circa 500 B.C.E.) do not need to return to Israel since they were an important "lobby" that saved the Jewish people.

    Esther and Iran
    Sarah Posner, who reports on Hagee for the American Prospect, writes that, "[b]ased on his end-times prophecy, a supposed love of the Jewish people and the state of Israel, and false claims that Iran is just months away from a viable nuclear weapon, Hagee maintains that confrontation with Iran is necessary to fulfill God’s plan for the future of the world."

    In June, Posner considered the impact of heartland Christocrats fired up against Iran:

    While pundits and politicians in Washington debate the merits of confrontation with Tehran, Hagee and other evangelical leaders plan to activate hundreds of congregations across the country -- many of which boast tens of thousands of members -- to flood congressional inboxes with e-mails at the touch of a button. The message from the heartland, beyond the ken of elites who cannot quite imagine such a decision, will be to strike Iran before it is too late.
    In an April email to CUFI supporters, Hagee used the story of Esther to mobilize his followers against Iran.

    Esther went before the king when Israel was in a time of crisis because the Hitler of the Old Testament (Haman) planned to exterminate the Jews.
    Mordecai said to Esther, "For if you remain completely silent at this time...you and your father's house will perish."

    CUFI is exactly in the position of Esther. Israel is in a time of crisis.

    A 21st Century Hitler (the president of Iran) has put in place a plan to exterminate the Jews with nuclear warfare. If we remain completely silent at this time...God's punishment will come to us also.

    The Bible's book of Esther is generally understood to be drama – not a prophetic book. By assigning to CUFI a role as a modern-day Queen Esther, positioned to influence government action (Esther 4:14), Hagee has staked out rather ambitious territory.

    Jewish commentators do not normally attribute such "ouiji board" interpretations to Bible verses. Indeed, Jewish commentators interpret the book of Esther as calling for more responsibility on the part of Jews for their fate. Some commentators suggest that the book may be a sly letter from the Jewish Diaspora claiming that people in the Babylonian Exile (circa 500 B.C.E.) do not need to return to Israel since they were an important "lobby" that saved the Jewish people....

    link to jewsonfirst.org

    It does make me wonder -- why did Bibi give Obama a copy of the book?

• Dershowitz claims he 'exposed' CAP and Rosenberg, and calls out Barbra Streisand
  • Sand March 3, 2012 at 6:56 pm

    Jason Alexander being on the 'Entertainment Council' of "One Voice"
    link to onevoicemovement.org

    Mondo article on Alexander back in November.
    link to mondoweiss.net

  • Sand March 3, 2012 at 6:42 pm

    "...Dershowitz is attempting to twist the arm of Streisand, a Hollywood liberal and supporter of the Democrats, to cut off funds to Media Matters. Dershowitz might very well fail: after a long and successful career in entertainment, Streisand is independently wealthy, and may dig in her heels."

    I wouldn't hold your breath. The woman just did a concert for the IDF. One can only assume she did the concert because she actually supports this type of behavior which apparently is fairly common?

    -- IDF’s reply confirms collective punishment of Palestinian village
    link to 972mag.com

    "...Streisand will appear with other performers, including David Foster and Jason Alexander...
    link to fidf.org

• ADL enlists city of Oakland to block Atzmon event
  • Sand February 28, 2012 at 11:13 pm

    "...it’s stronger when they stick to Atzmon’s own words.." Or, maybe its the discomfort when he doesn't speak the words you expect to hear. He doesn't like to be cornered that's for sure.

    Atzmod: "...My primary issue is concerned with the freedom to wander/wonder, and to raise possible dilemmas without being terrorised by the ‘Holocaust censorship police’ or any other form of thought dictatorship.

    ...I would argue instead that raising the right questions is far more important than repeating the ‘right’ answers..."

    I haven't read all the links -- One that I did flag was footnote 8...

    I do not consider the Jews to be a race, and yet it is obvious that ‘Jewishness’ clearly involves an ethno-centric and racially supremacist, exclusivist point of view that is based on a sense of Jewish ‘chosen-ness’.8

    Winging it. From Azmon's perspective it would seem he has observed - "Jewishness’, Jewish ideology and Jewish political identity...." as being 'predominately' at this time Zionist (tho' not totally?) -- Zionism being only a part of Jewishness -- only a part of being considered Chosen(?) I don't necessarily understand his point on Judaism? I often correlate Judaism (right or wrong) with synagogue -- by noting that the vast majority of the '50 most influential Rabbis in America' are Zionists* -- expecting their Jewish synagogue members are too - else why would they remain there knowing full well what Israel has become? But, a synagogue is just a building, a meeting place. Also, the Chabad-Lubavitch movement is pretty much into exclusiveness. He's not much of a straight talker.

    I guess I have to buy the bl**dy book.

  • Sand February 28, 2012 at 8:22 pm

    Also, sorry I see absolutely no similarity between Atzmod and Kevin MacDonald - I've just been to his 'White Identity' blog. Holy Crap -- and this guy is in academia.

  • Sand February 28, 2012 at 8:14 pm

    Adam this is hardly a balanced article on Atzmon. Also, with these kind of quotes I would expect links to provide some context around his remarks.

    I've just finished listening to the Flashpoints interview with Atzmon and Lerner.

    Lerner: 'Israel should be regarded as an affirmative action State for Jews' - interesting Zionist excuse (February 27, 2012 at 5:00pm). We're not talking about a university here -- but a STATE. okkkk....
    link to kpfa.org

    I don't hear a venom spitting anti-semite. The guy has a history, a Jewish history, and he's obviously struggled with that history. I have not lived in Israel. I've not been a member of the IDF, nor heard the things goyim are not privy too -- Atzmon has. Maybe he's just aired too much dirty laundry for some people to bear as well as advocating for a democratic one-state solution? I want to hear more.

• Lobby's bedfellows: CAP's new PR outfit also worked for Sheldon Adelson's pet project
  • Sand February 28, 2012 at 12:43 pm with 1 replies

    Dorf might be operating "...firmly on the Dem side of things...", however I would still highlight Phil's observation that the "...The hiring of Dorf underlines the fact that the Israel lobby transcends political parties..."

    Dorf's job has definitely been in the past to keep Jewish/Israel politics front and center within the Democratic Party. For example, when he had a hand in keeping neo-con Joe Lieberman's political life alive, as well as crushing ex-President Carter's view on Israel.

    From the Jewish Week (my link is now broken, but the quotes are correct):

    “…Members of the [pro-Israel] team headed off another crisis during the summer by convincing the DNC to kill a resolution calling on Sen. Joe Lieberman (D-Conn.), who enjoys iconic status in the Jewish community, to drop out of the Senate race when it became apparent he would lose to anti-war newcomer Ned Lamont, who won the August primary. “If the DNC had done that, it would have been a tremendous problem for the Democrats” because of Lieberman’s stature, [Matt] Dorf said…”

    Remembering Lieberman never paid a price for screwing the Democrats@!

    Dorf from the same article also played a hand in attacking President Carter:

    "...Price (aide to Nancy Pelosi), a former Jewish Council for Public Affairs (JCPA) official, played a major role in formulating strategy and lining up supportive statements and op-eds by Democrats in response to potential crises—including pre-election leaks about an inflammatory new book on the Middle East by former President Jimmy Carter.

    “That was one we dreaded because we feared it could go mainstream,” Dorf said this week. Statements blasting Carter from Democratic leaders like Pelosi and Dean, as well as Rep. John Conyers (D-Mich.), a leading Israel critic, helped prevent that from happening. “We were able to get in front of the story,” Dorf said.

• NJ Star-Ledger runs 'dual loyalty' charge against Rep. Rothman supporters
  • Sand February 26, 2012 at 6:17 pm

    Rothman (Israel-Firster) will happily be bi-partisan when it comes to Israel. E.g. Rothman deciding to take out a Democrat out of office rather than a Republican. Debbie Wasserman-Schultz (DNC! ex DCCC) is the same. Screw what Obama and the US military says -- basically it appears their (and others) game is to stay in Congress to protect Israel not the United States -- They don't seem care who they ally with -- namely nut-case Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-Fla.)!

    "...AJC, [initiator] together with members of the U.S. House of Representatives, will launch the Latino-Jewish Congressional Caucus at an event tonight on Capitol Hill..."

    Jews and Latinos Form a Pragmatic Congressional Alliance
    Mutual Support Coalition Sought on Israel and Immigration
    link to forward.com

    This Israel-focused caucus joining the yanks of the Congressional Israel Allies Caucus, and obviously the all star Jewish Caucus.

    The bastardization of the Democratic Party continues. I also noticed that DNC chairperson Debbie Wasserman Schultz has elevated Antonio Villaraigosa position in the party! The same guy AIPAC elevated back in 2009 when he 'kicked off' AIPAC annual policy conference.

    Elizabeth Warren is the tip of the iceberg.

• Hoenlein says irresponsible 'J Street' threatens Jewish unity (and survival)
  • Sand February 26, 2012 at 6:49 pm

    "Hoenlein says irresponsible ‘J Street’ threatens Jewish unity (and survival

    Yeah, right! However, according to Ron Kampeas it seems Hoenlein and AIPAC are giving off nothing more than crocodile tears. In fact it sounds like Hoenlein, AIPAC and J-Street are all in cahoots. Ha! what a surprise.

    "...J Street, ahead of its March conference, which follows hard upon the annual AIPAC conference, has released a campaign that in some ways would not be out of the place at AIPAC..."
    link to blogs.jta.org

    You don't say! :)

    J-Street: aka keep Israel for Jews so I can buy my walled-off gated community holiday home errr I mean keep my identity.

• Video: Protesters are attacked at an 'Israel Alliance' event at U of New Mexico
  • Sand February 26, 2012 at 7:50 pm

    "conspiratorial thinking" eh! Right... just a few examples why it is not at all conspiratorial.

    -- AIPAC spy case: Rosen and Weissman
    -- Back in 1992 David Steiner (AIPAC President): Negotiating with Clinton to embed operatives of a foreign lobby in positions in the State Department and NSA. As an aside the mere $100,000 that Katz was offering to fund AIPAC approved candidates -- that's frigging peanuts now!
    -- AIPAC (and AIPAC's congress critters) taking out Chas Freeman.
    -- Dennis Ross being able to embed himself not only in the State dept but also the NSC.
    -- Jeremy Bash (ex-AIPAC) - COS both @ the CIA and now DOD!
    -- chair/minority chair House Foreign Affairs Committee is Howard Berman (D-CA): "Even before I was a Democrat, I was a Zionist,”... “is why I went on the Foreign Affairs Committee.”
    -- Congressman Henry Waxman (D-CA), said during the 2006 election to a Jewish audience, “There will be some Democratic chairmen who may not share all my views . . . on Israel [but] … they will not be chairing committees dealing with Israel and the Middle East.”

    I mean HELLO!@

• New book explores the history of 'New Jewish Agenda'
  • Sand February 14, 2012 at 12:03 pm

    “anti-Semitism on the Left”.

    Yes, Annie -- you can't really miss it.

  • Sand February 14, 2012 at 11:58 am

    I don't post often these days! BUT. All I hear here is you trying to flog your book and tell me about your well-researched[?] angst and hang-up about people criticizing the basic fact that Zionism = Racism. So, while you happily swim among the them [Zionists] you can't contain yourself to quickly turn on those who disagree with you [anti-Zionists], quickly dismiss any reasoned debate -- but instead like to use the Zionist trigger word = anti-semite. Can I see through you much?

    You are the new Zionist breed who really doesn't like to be called Zionist, but nonetheless can't break away from its foundational premise. Glad you can afford to go to all those Conferences. You and others continue to enable the cause, continue to refuse to apply any real action or pressure to stop the Settlers, and turn your head away from the fu*king obvious fact that Israel (NOW including 'Settled' Palestine land ) has a government and hierarchy based on Jewish supremacy (land, sea, air and even finance) -- and you think that's NOT racist?

• Chris Hayes stunning 'Story of the Week' featuring Sheldon Adelson
  • Sand January 29, 2012 at 6:23 pm with 2 replies

    yourstruly says: "...what remains to be seen is whether, despite widespread publicity and increasing awareness that israel-firsters are anti-american, these 50-70 million evangelical voters remain steadfast in their support of the zionist entity? ..."

    That's the question are they steadfast in their support of Israel? A recent Pew Report on Evangelical leaders. How many Israeli flags are being flown in their churches?

    "...Attitudes toward Israel, however, are more mixed. Overall, 48% of the evangelicals say the state of Israel is a fulfillment of biblical prophecy about the Second Coming of Jesus, while 42% say it is not. More say they sympathize with Israel (34%) than with the Palestinians (11%), but a small majority say they either sympathize with both sides equally (39%) or with neither side (13%). Leaders from sub-Saharan Africa are especially inclined to sympathize with Israel (50%), while sympathy for the Palestinians is strongest in the Middle East and North Africa (26%). Among evangelical leaders from the United States, three-in-ten (30%) sympathize more with Israel, 13% sympathize more with the Palestinians and nearly half (49%) say they sympathize with both sides equally.

    Remembering that these guys control what's being said from the pulpit.

  • Sand January 29, 2012 at 5:54 pm

    FreddyV says: "...It’s these people [Evangelicals] and where they’ll put their votes that scares the bejeepers out of me...."

    No brainer. They are going to vote Republican regardless who the candidate is going to be. Even if it was Newt vs. Obama. -- I still see them voting Republican.

    link to pewforum.org

    It's the apathetic American voter that scares me. Those Americans that (rightly) see the entrenched corruption in their politics, and won't bother turning out to vote because they believe their vote won't count.

    BTW: Perry was supposed to be the Christian Zionist pick -- and look what happened to him!

    -- How Rick Perry courts the Zionist vote
    Appearing with Jewish extremists is designed to win over apocalyptic Christians
    link to salon.com

  • Sand January 29, 2012 at 5:26 pm

    richb says: It’s the Christian Zionists who are obsessing on this.

    I need more evidence? Christians United for Israel (CUFI), a group that claims to have 500,000 members, but only 5,000 turn up to show their support? link to sacornerstone.org

    As I've said before -- they're no AIPAC crowd! This apparently being the best photo they could muster of Christian Zionist support.

    CUFI (under their sister organization) handing out a mere $8 million to Jewish causes -- compared to Adelson $10 million? Something doesn't smell right.

    The Biggest Pro-Israel Group in America? That’s Us, Says Christians United. Religious Organization Claims 500,000 Members, Though Some Say Its Definition of Membership Is Expansive

    "...Last year the group distributed, through its sister organization, John Hagee Ministries, more than $8 million to Israeli and Jewish organizations, according to CUFI. CUFI has stated that less than 5% of that sum went to settler organizations operating in the West Bank..."
    Read more: link to forward.com

    Where's the Christian Zionist base -- The hoards of Christians demanding that protecting Israel be their single issue?

  • Sand January 29, 2012 at 4:41 pm with 1 replies

    Avi_G says: Well, they are probably the same as the terms of the relationship between Obama and his multimillionaire donors,..."

    Exactly, I agree.

    The focus seems to be on Adelson's outrageous gamble of spending $10 million on a guy that most people see as nothing more than a used car dealer. However, if people actually bothered to check Obama's collectively billionaire/millionaire donors [e.g. via OpenSecrets] noting their front and center pro-Israel Zionist agenda -- I believe they could 'collectively' out fund Adelson by a wide margin. Collectively, when looking at the Israel issue -- the Zionist $$$ is still flowing into the Democratic camp -- the something we shouldn't ignore.

    Blast from the past (back in 2001/02), before the rules changed:

    "...Mr. Saban said he gave $7 million specifically for the construction of the Democratic National Committee's high-tech headquarters here. The building will cost $32 million, a sum that will be paid entirely with soft money donations that will be illegal after Nov. 6.
    link to nytimes.com

    "...Over the three election cycles from 2002 through 2006, Saban contributed $12.7 million to the party and to Democratic candidates -- outstripping the runner-up in individual donations, real estate investor and movie producer Stephen L. Bing, who gave $8.9 million. Saban has been a fervent supporter of Clinton in her quest for the White House, as he was of her husband, President Clinton..."
    link to articles.latimes.com

    Something of note -- In 2012, the Zionist camp on both sides of the aisle are definitely upping the ante.

  • Sand January 29, 2012 at 2:34 pm

    And, something to make your eyes pop:

    Barack Obama (D)
    2012 Bundlers

    Bundlers are people with friends in high places who, after bumping against personal contribution limits, turn to those friends, associates, and, well, anyone who's willing to give, and deliver the checks to the candidate in one big "bundle."

    Even though these donors direct more money to the candidates than anyone else, disclosure can be spotty, candidates generally release bundlers by ranges of fundraising, indicated in this chart with the "max" and "min" columns, and with the top ranges being simply "$500,000 or more." Together, 357 elites are directing at least $55,900,000 for Obama's re-election efforts -- money that has gone into the coffers of his campaign as well as the Democratic National Committee.

    link to opensecrets.org

    Accompanying article:

    Jewish Fundraisers Stick With Obama
    Despite Taking Lumps, President Maintains Strong Support

    Read more: link to forward.com

    With regards to Daniel Levy's comment - I'm leaning towards hogwash, unless he can prove it? Obama's foreign policy is AIPAC all the way. How Levy can even mention J-Street with a straight face I don't know -- unless he thinks we're stupid?

    And this:

    "...Despite the fact that he resigned from his post in the Obama administration, longtime American [?] diplomat Dennis Ross just cannot quit. Haaretz has learned that Ross still advises President Barak Obama on a regular basis, and maintains an open channel with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu...
    link to forward.com

  • Sand January 29, 2012 at 2:08 pm with 1 replies

    IMHO another interesting story:

    One U.S. family is responsible for half of Netanyahu's donations
    Owners of Duty Free America, a large chain of duty-free shops that operates in 13 airports, pledged half of NIS 330,000 Netanyahu raised.
    By Ophir Bar-Zohar
    link to haaretz.com

    OK folks, just imagine how much money is going into our elections!

    The Falic family is in Debbie Wasserman-Schultz district -- note, our special DNC 'fundraising' lady. They donate to both sides of the aisle, but appear to mostly favor republicans (from the $$$ we know about). However, the Falic family will also give generously to Jewish Democrats that have a strong Israel obsession e.g. Shelley Berkley (could quite possibly be our next Joe Lieberman if she gets into the Senate). Also, Simon Falic is part of the political strategy to get US Latinos on board to shill for Israel via the Bridges & Pathways Organization link to bridgesandpathways.org
    This should be interesting.

    Doh! - noting from the 'Jewish' perspective they have a lot of work to do!

    Poll: Latinos Believe U.S. Too Supportive of Israel = National Survey of Jewish and Latino Americans Finds Anti-Semitism Exists Within The Latino Community.

    link to ffeu.org

  • Sand January 29, 2012 at 1:36 pm

    Another story on Adelson. You may have already linked to it -- but just in case.

    Who Is Sheldon Adelson, the Gingrich Super PAC's Billionaire Backer?
    By Molly Ball @ The Atlantic.
    Jan 25, 2012
    link to theatlantic.com

• Assailed on Facebook for Tel Aviv gig, British musician Joker appears to back out
  • Sand December 18, 2011 at 12:20 pm

    Well, they have Melanie Phillips onboard - what did you expect?

    Example of Mel's view of the world promoted by the Daily Mail:

    link to dailymail.co.uk

• Is portrait of Mark Zuckerberg in 'The Social Network' anti-Semitic?
  • Sand December 18, 2011 at 12:25 pm with 1 replies

    "...One thing I thought was weird though – one of my favorite shows, The Office.

    Oh, but Ricky Gervais is such a wicked SOB sometimes!

    link to thejc.com

    And Jimmy Fallon -- is sooo not funny!

    link to sdjewishjournal.com

• Iran: If it had been a fighter jet not a drone, 'U.S. bases would have been pounded'
  • Sand December 11, 2011 at 5:42 pm

    I would also highly recommend watching:

    Speaking Freely: Vol. 4: Chalmers Johnson RIP
    2007 NR 52 minutes

    Writer and professor Chalmers Johnson warns of the dangers of American imperialism, a trend evidenced in the presence of U.S. military bases abroad, the passage of the Patriot Act and the executive branch's use of military force. The outspoken author of Blowback, The Sorrows of Empire and Nemesis: The Last Days of the American Republic predicts that the fall of the so-called American Empire is imminent.

    Currently on Netflix online streaming. Also, it may still be available on YouTube.

• Game changer: Hillary says Israeli restrictions on women remind her of Rosa Parks and Iran
  • Sand December 4, 2011 at 3:23 pm

    "...US Jews should be more exposed to the really vile things that Israelis say about Yoffie, and by extension about all Reform Jews...

    The US Jewish establishment has certainly been aware. I noticed the change last year:-

    JPost: Conversion bill dismays US senators
    07/15/2010
    Senator to send "unprecedented" letter to Oren slamming bill.

    ...“Israel should continue to be a welcoming place for Jews, as it has been through its history,” said Matt Dennis, communications director for Rep. Nita Lowey (D-New York), characterizing her thinking. “She is concerned that this bill would alienate Jews around the world and risk weakening the sense of unity within the Diaspora that is critical to Israel’s security.”

    “There’s an overwhelming feeling among Jewish members of Congress and Jewish senators that the conversion bill is offensive to them and is exclusionary in that it disenfranchises and disrespects 85% of Jews in the US.”

    link to jpost.com

    Sounds like the Zionist World Congress wasn't happy either:

    Haaretz: World Zionist Congress resolutions show Diaspora and Israel at loggerheads

    Facing international condemnation, Israel this month also found itself at odds with a powerful Jewish presence – the World Zionist Congress.
    link to haaretz.com

    Hostage you've gotta do a write up on these guys.

  • Sand December 4, 2011 at 1:59 pm

    Hillary Clinton might of thought her remarks would remain "behind closed doors" as the Jewish establishment often tells us it doesn't like airing US-Israel dirty laundry in public--- EXCEPT -- tho' when they deem it to be to their advantage!

    Hills is shrewd she knows never to 'Trust' Israel-Firster Saban. He makes the rules.

  • Sand December 4, 2011 at 1:49 pm

    Above edit: "...It’s a fact that many Foundations giving to pro-choice causes, and high-end $$$ pro-choice donors are Jewish.

    Example of deal-making: NARAL and Planned Parenthood: Ineffectiveness Anti-Choice Democrats Can Rely On
    link to huffingtonpost.com

  • Sand December 4, 2011 at 1:37 pm

    sand, the fundies are going after the judicial system.

    Yep, I'm with you on that one.

    Also, as an aside here in the US it's scary how many of the Pro-choice organizations just seem to be rolling over and not addressing this fundie onslaught in any meaningful way.

    With regards to background swinging deals (the Veal Pen Syndrome) -- I'm wondering if Zionism politics is trumping the rights of women? It's a fact that any Jewish Foundations and high-end pro-choice donors are Jewish.

  • Sand December 4, 2011 at 11:45 am with 5 replies

    "...Abe Foxman has effectively declared open season on Israeli antidemocracy, which gives a license to people like Hillary...

    Also she's backed by Reform Rabbi Eric Yoffie. Hills knows she's covered.

    link to haaretz.com

    Very good point! -- I agree.

• From Occupation to 'Occupy': The Israelification of American domestic security
  • Sand December 4, 2011 at 11:36 am

    EXCLUSIVE: Funders Behind NYPD’s Mysterious Private ‘Counter-Terrorism’ Foundation

    Tagging onto this story -- Bloomberg's recent announcement:

    Bloomberg: “I have my own army in the NYPD, which is the seventh biggest army in the world. I have my own State Department, much to Foggy Bottom’s annoyance. We have the United Nations in New York, and so we have an entree into the diplomatic world that Washington does not have,” Mayor Bloomberg said.

    link to politickerny.com

    I wouldn't put it past him to try and run for President in the future.

• Marcus warns, US Jews could abandon Israel over treatment of women (ixnay about alestiniansPay)
  • Sand December 5, 2011 at 1:26 am

    Hostage: So your question is moot Yes, you're right!

    Also, this guy is supposed to oversee the SEC -- which is another area -- which I find very interesting -- where often my posts seem to go off into the internet ether to cool off :)

  • Sand December 5, 2011 at 1:13 am

    the link: More Jews in Congress than ever before (11/08/06)
    link to new.jpost.com

    Not sure how long the link will be up.

  • Sand December 5, 2011 at 1:08 am

    MRW: But the point is that Ackerman, a US elected official, also holds a post within one of the Zionist Congress’ voting US member groups ..."

    My understanding is that Ackerman operates under the umbrella of the World Jewish Congress and not the The World Zionist Organization [WZO]? Also, even if he is a 'regular[?]' member of the B’nai B’rith -- they only have limited voting rights.

    This is why I wanted to understand the 'Affiliate' relationship between the the World Zionist Organization [WZO] and the World Jewish Congress [WJC]?

    Noting, some of the leadership under the WJC have been active members in the WZO in the past. e.g. Evelyn Sommer - WJC Chair, North American Jewish Congress
    link to worldjewishcongress.org

  • Sand December 4, 2011 at 10:52 pm with 6 replies

    -- More Jews in Congress than ever before
    by Adinah Greene :

    JPost: "...The ICJP was established in 2002 as part of the World Jewish Congress to build a network for government officials with their counterparts all over the world. "The goal is to put together parliamentarians from all over the world in order for them to cooperate with one another and promote Jewish issues/AGENDAS (my emphasis) in their respective countries," said Arik Puder, the spokesman for ICJP Israel..."

    From my notes Knesset members: MK Colette Avital, and MK Yuli Edelstein were involved.

  • Sand December 4, 2011 at 10:40 pm

    "...critical of the Likudniks from time to time..."

    Being critical of the Likudniks doesn't do much for me -- It's Ackermans actions and more importantly votes that count at the end of the day. Do you think he will vote for war for Israel that will (for sure) kill American kids stuck out in the ME?

  • Sand December 4, 2011 at 10:00 pm

    I'm not sure we will find elected officials in the WZO? -- I could be wrong -- but I don't it's going to be easy for us to connect the dots -- unless Hostage can lay out the organizational chart in front of us. :)

    What I did find were the Mercaz delegates for the 36th World Zionist Congress:

    -- Mercaz Takes Its Place At Zionist Congress
    link to mercazusa.org

    I noticed the name Rabbi Gerald Skolnik (Forest Hills, NY) as part of the delegation. Although, he's not an elected official he does have the privilege of being in front of a number of politically charged constituents, as well as being able to get close and personal to the President, and often writes in the Jewish Week

    link to njdc.org

    link to thejewishweek.com

    Also, interestingly J-Street was there:

    "....Vice President of Policy and Strategy at J Street and a veteran of the Israeli army, found myself chairing the Settlement Committee at the World Zionist Congress?..."
    

    link to jstreet.org

  • Sand December 4, 2011 at 9:26 pm

    Ackerman ....He is serving two governments in an official capacity.

    Yes. Right in front of us.

  • Sand December 4, 2011 at 9:11 pm

    Not a J-Street Progressive Zionist -- that's for sure.

    Ackerman Blasts J-Street support for UN Condemnation of Israel
    link to ackerman.house.gov

    Also, Nathan Guttman a reporter from the Jewish Forward says when he covered just 'one' subcommittee foreign affairs hearing:

    "…In just one session, the Democratic-led subcommittee [Ackerman!] made it clear that at least on issues regarding the Palestinian conflict, it stands to the right of the Bush administration…"

    link to forward.com

  • Sand December 4, 2011 at 9:00 pm

    OK then scrub this entry as I can't find a definite working link -- I can only remember the names. I'm sure Shelley Berkley name came up too.

  • Sand December 4, 2011 at 8:37 pm

    "Gary Ackerman is a Green Line or progressive Zionist.

    Progressive Zionist eh! This is the Ackerman that tells us regarding the consequences of settlement expansion:

    Ackerman (May 2009): "...settlement expansion in return for dismantling illegal outposts, a position supported by the influential chairman of a House subcommittee. “Internal growth is not an obstacle — it is life,” said the congressman, Gary Ackerman (D-L.I.), chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Middle East and South Asia.

    “There is no moral equivalence between settlements and terrorist activity,” he said by phone shortly after leaving a 90-minute meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Tel Aviv. Bibi mentioned settlements,” Ackerman continued, using Netanyahu’s nickname. “He pointed out that unlike previous administrations that said they would not build them but built them, he is not building new settlements. But he has a position that you cannot stop people on the issue of internal growth.”

    Ackerman said he subscribed to the position of a Kadima Knesset member, Otniel Schneller, who was quoted as saying: “I will not lend a hand to a dictate preventing my daughters from giving birth to my grandchildren.”

    Ackerman’s comments came the same day Dan Meridor, Israel’s minister of Intelligence Agencies, flew to London to meet George Mitchell, America’s special Middle East envoy. He was sent to convince him that “natural growth” should be permitted in the major settlement blocs in return for the dismantling of illegal West Bank outposts.

    link to thejewishweek.com

    Sorry, from the sounds of things Ackerman works for Israel, to make sure Obama doesn't get in the way of both expanding and now the blatant in Obama's face building of new settlements.

    Also, Ackerman is a apparently a member of B'nai B'rith
    link to nndb.com

  • Sand December 4, 2011 at 7:36 pm

    Adam Curtis' blog is another site I often visit. I love what he digs up! Like his post on Murdoch:

    link to bbc.co.uk

  • Sand December 4, 2011 at 5:35 pm

    "...It is for this reason that 55 Jewish parliamentarians from 22 countries have assembled in Jerusalem under the auspices of the World Jewish Congress.

    For this year's International Council of Jewish Parliamentarians conference both Henry Waxman and Nita Lowey went along with Ackerman.

    link to legistorm.com

    Also, back in 2005 these guys were on the first ICJP Steering Committee:

    "...U.S. Senators Barbara Boxer, Norm Coleman, Dianne Feinstein, Frank Lautenberg, Joseph Lieberman and Carl Levin, and with Members of Congress Gary Ackerman, Howard Berman, Susan Davis, Eliot Engel, Barney Frank, Tom Lantos, Nita Lowey, Jerrold Nadler, Jan Schakowsky, Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Allyson Schwartz, and Henry Waxman..."
    link to en.wikipedia.org

    Unfortunatley, the original ICJP source page has disappeared, but I remember all those names. Other Jewish Parliamentarians from around the world were also there.

  • Sand December 4, 2011 at 2:56 pm

    Also, it is just a coincidence that the Jewish Federations of North America has just decided to restructure it's giving program? Maybe wanting more autonomy from the Jewish Agency, and the Israel-based Zionist (embarrassing) empire? I dunno - but there seems to be some major restructuring (central planning process?) going on?

    JTA: At GA, new federation plan for overseas seen as blow to Jewish Agency

    "After a decades-long partnership that saw the Jewish Agency for Israel serve as the official, exclusive Zionist arm of North America’s Jewish community federations, the federation system is getting ready to date other partners..."
    link to jta.org

    JTA: In restructuring, key Canadian Jewish officials are let go June 26, 2011
    link to jta.org

  • Sand December 4, 2011 at 1:23 pm

    PW: ive asked hostage, mrw, thanks
    hostage, comply

    Absolutely- yes please!

    So, for example, what is the connection between the
    The World Zionist Organization [WZO] and the World Jewish Congress [WJC]?

    I did notice that the WJC is calling the WZO a WJC Affiliate" (Related Bodies). But what's their relationship in terms of Jewish governance around the world?

    WJC Affiliates (from WJC home page): Anti-Defamation League, B'nai B'rith International, Conference of European Rabbis, Hillel, International Council of Jewish Women, International Jewish Committee on Inter-Religious Consultations, Women's International Zionist Organization, World Union of Jewish Students, World Zionist Organization/Jewish Agency for Israel

    However, I found it very strange that the International Council of Jewish Parliamentarians [ICJP] was NOT on the list? Our very own Gary Ackerman on the US foreign affairs committee being a member.

    "The ICJP operates in cooperation with the Knesset, the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the World Jewish Congress."

    Also noting that the WJC has admitted in news releases that the ICJP is "a partner organization of the World Jewish Congress".

• Roger Cohen says our foreign policy has been 'Likudized'
  • Sand December 2, 2011 at 11:44 am with 1 replies

    When I read your comment the first thought that came into my mind was "Inverted Totalitarianism." Chris Hedges first introduced me to the term, (just google CH & IT), he also references back to Sheldon Wolin. It's impossible not to see the signs.

    Just one of many articles on the subject:

    Democracy in America Is a Useful Fiction, by Chris Hedges
    link to commondreams.org

    Adding:

    Sheldon Wolin: "...Bear in mind that a ruthless, ideologically driven party with a mass base was a crucial element in all of the twentieth-century regimes seeking total power..." link to thenation.com

    The base in my mind is the militarist nationalist Republicans who are in lockstep with the American Zionist Likudniks -- whether they both realize it or not. Also,

    Richard Dreyfus [The Nation - Nov '10]: "..Asked about Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, [Martin] Indyk said, "He is much more of a Republican than a Likudnik," meaning that Netanyahu closely identifies with the GOP and he has good relations with Republicans in Congress. Noting that Netanyahu recently stepped up his rhetoric calling for a military attack on Iran, Indyk suggested that Netanyahu was sending an unsubtle signal to Republicans to start talking up the issue.

    link to thenation.com

    Netanyahu who seems to be driving this juggernaut to hell has the Republicans in his pocket as well as the American Zionist Likudniks, many of whom we know have influencial/powerful positions within the Democratic Party (e.g. committee members on foreign affairs -- major financiers of the party, Likud spokespoke person - Chuck Schumer, Debbie Wasserman-Schultz, Steve Israel etc.), as well as holding important positions within the Administration -- ok Ross might have left, but definitely within the State Dept, and possibly even within the DOD. The number joint military maneuvers we do with these guys is unheard of when you compare with other States military alliances. It's not looking good!

• Why is Charlie Rose hugging Seth Klarman?
  • Sand December 1, 2011 at 8:54 am

    So LeaNder -- are these books supposed to be the Jewish equivalent of the Tim LaHaye end of days books? I am supposed to be impressed with this guy who was successful in actually getting his paranoia published?

  • Sand November 30, 2011 at 6:22 pm

    I remember Mike Malloy talking about all those 'Democratic' big donors (I'm sure some of them having a "Foundations" or two) not wanting to give a dime to get "Progressive Radio" off the ground. Wake up to the real world eh@!

  • Sand November 30, 2011 at 6:16 pm

    Seth Klarman can't understand why money can't buy him EVERYTHING.

    Money does not give him the right to MAKE people and governments accept the ethnic cleansing of a people who have done us no harm, so a supposedly special tribe can decide at a whim to live in their place. He talks of a Jewish State seemingly oblivious of the fact there are still Palestinians, human beings living there. How utterly disgusting is that. Hatred? No, I would say people are more concerned with how many sociopaths are out there.

  • Sand November 30, 2011 at 3:24 pm

    Oh and - Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano -- was at the AIPAC Scottsdale, AZ event as well! Just to drum home the message.

    And Prof. Finkelstein according to Max Blumenthal says that "neocons had "no role" in taking US to Iraq. Astounding" It's more than astounding -- esp. when you read what goes on at these AIPAC and US government 'Summits'.

  • Sand November 30, 2011 at 3:11 pm with 2 replies

    Why why on earth must you immediately jump and think of "violence"? Anyway, the Jewish community has the Department of Homeland Security well and truly in their pocket - somehow I don't think we will be seeing any Jews being locked away in the near future. However, I have a sneaky suspicion that the ADL wouldn't mind pushing legislation to be able to lock people away for even daring to be critical of Israel "de-legitimizing Israel" will have a whole new meaning!

    BTW at that AIPAC Scottsdale, Arizona committee meeting -- our very own Sen. Claire McCaskill (D-MO) was there.

    "...Sen. Claire McCaskill (D-MO), chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Government Affairs Subcommittee on Contracting Oversight and member of the Armed Services Committee, spoke to Summit delegates about the importance of the U.S.-Israel relationship. “The relationship between the United States and Israel is crucial to our national security and the future of our world,” she said. “Protecting and advancing that relationship [US-Israel], including ensuring the safety and security of Israel, must remain the highest priority for our nation.”

    link to aipac.org

    Oh yeah, the I-Lobby has the Dept of Homeland Security well and truly stitched up.

  • Sand November 30, 2011 at 2:46 pm

    Oh, how the 1% live. Well, that was an eye-opener. 10% -- I just can't get over it.

  • Sand November 30, 2011 at 1:31 pm

    Interesting. Yes, they've kinda shot themselves in the foot. With the dumbing down of the American public (at lot of the time by Zionists -- hell, they even have a nation-wide/world-wide industry involved in it), e.g with the constant reinforcement of Israel being the *Jewish* State in the MSM, and Rabbis making sure they are turfing out newbie Rabbis with a "Zionist mindset" -- I could see it definitely biting them in the butt at some point.

  • Sand November 30, 2011 at 12:01 pm with 9 replies

    'It takes money to make money'. Have you any links to this 10% rule? Actually, I would be very interested to read any exposé articles on these types of Foundations? ONLY 10% that's amazing!

• Now they care
  • Sand November 30, 2011 at 2:24 am

    PW: "...Joe Klein has done some really great work over the years.."

    Yeah, but all I see in Joe's angst is a flashing red light: of the 'guaranteed Zionist reflex mechanism' -- that will always operate when needed.

    Joe Klein: "For those of us who feel strongly about the need for Israel to exist–especially those of us who love the place, warts and all [!!!]–this incident is yet another reason to fear for Israel’s future..."

    Read more: link to swampland.time.com

    Note: These guys only go so far and then 'circle the wagons' time and time, and time again. Two steps forward, and then two steps back. We just don't have the time for this hand-winging. Israel and the American Zionists blew it -- but they won't accept defeat.

• Ann Lewis and Bill Kristol do 'playful banter' at AIPAC summit
  • Sand November 30, 2011 at 8:56 pm

    Thanks John h! -- that was weird. :)

  • Sand November 30, 2011 at 1:12 pm

    I really do think Prof. Finkelstein is a decent person - and v. knowledgable. But this stuff he's coming out with now -- it makes him look like (sorry to be blunt) he's living in fairy land. I'm just a little shocked is all.

    Here's a recent exchange with John Mearsheimer. I don't know where to start -- just read it.

    Pathbreaking scholars Norman Finkelstein and John Mearsheimer speak out about the precarious future of the Jewish state. Greater Israel-or Peace?
    link to normanfinkelstein.com

  • Sand November 30, 2011 at 1:53 am

    "...According to Max Blumenthal, Finkelstein said the “jewish neo-cons” had “no role” in taking the country to Iraq….. ive heard him brush aside questions of “dual loyalty” in regard to jewish neo-cons, but specifically having “no role” in the country attacking Iraq? That’s nuts..."

    Wow! If true -- (I haven't listened)-- I never put him down as one of those that 'circle the wagons'? I mean, does this mean he is completely dismissing, even belittling what Lawrence Wilkerson & Karen Kwiatkowski had to say (at great risk to themselves and their future careers when they told their story -- and THEY WERE THERE!). Give me a break.

    I wondered when he made a slip-up when during a Democracy Now interview with J-Street Jeremy Ben-Ami said that the UN was not part of the Quartet -- maybe something was going on? I hope he responds and explains himself?

    link to democracynow.org

  • Sand November 29, 2011 at 2:09 pm with 1 replies

    Just found out via JTA - Ann's brother Barney is saying bye bye! Wondering who we will be taking his place -- another Shelley Berkley? A politician to make sure Zionism lives on, and Israel is the number one foreign policy priority -- regardless what is good for the United States security and interest?

    -- Barney Frank won’t run again
    By Daniel Treiman · November 28, 2011

    link to blogs.jta.org

• The liberal Zionist inability to confront the right of return
  • Sand November 30, 2011 at 6:41 pm

    This discussion is still going on over at +974

    Monday, November 28 2011|Joseph Dana
    +972 readers weigh in on Zionism debate
    link to 972mag.com

    h/t to The Magnes Zionist after reading his post.
    link to jeremiahhaber.com

    This Joseph Dana guy is razor sharp.

• Why is Mort Zuckerman so hot about Obama?
  • Sand November 30, 2011 at 3:37 pm

    Shelley Berkley who could be our next uber Zionist in the Senate.

• NBC and the Israel lobby
  • Sand November 26, 2011 at 3:11 pm

    ehrens: "...Aside from the goofy CUFI people, this doesn’t sound right. Has anyone ever done a study of the membership of AIPAC to resolve this question...

    For example, somebody could start by looking at the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), and American Israel Education Foundation, Inc -- "Compensation of Officers, Directors, Trustees, Key Employees, Highest Compensated Employees, and Independent Contractors." page of their 990. The 'important' people who basically run/manage the organization.

    Foundation Center 990 Finder
    link to foundationcenter.org

• Israeli newspaper owner says Obama can't stop settlers' 'apartheid regime' because of 'Jewish lobby'
  • Sand November 26, 2011 at 5:28 pm

    This 'Zionist' enterprise seems to get away with blue murder.

    --U.S. Treasury says: There’s nothing to see on tax-exempt support for illegal settlements
    by Alex Kane on April 18, 2011
    link to mondoweiss.net

  • Sand November 26, 2011 at 2:20 pm with 4 replies

    OK, I think the picture is getting a little clearer. Also, may others can jump in and provide more information?

    I must admit, I didn't bother to follow the Christian Zionist movement much after Bush left, as I assumed the Zionists in the Democratic Party where going to be the center of attention (pulling the strings). But, now it looks as if Zionists from both parties were operating in tandem all along -- regardless who was in power. Which seems to be why Debbie Wasserman-Schultz of the DNC, Steve Israel (DCCC), (not Patty Murray of the DSCC!), and David Harris ('Israel is a litmus test to American Jews) of the NJDC didn't want the obvious collusion going on ~ supporting Israel regardless ~ when they met up with Netanyahu and the RJC. OK -- Christian Zionists money is v. much why the settlements are thriving -- which is a benefit to BOTH Republican and Democrat Jewish Zionists.

    link to rjchq.org

    AIPAC as well as the rest of the I-Lobby (including pro-Israel Zionists PAC's) deal with getting the Zionist politicians in power. The Christian Zionists (notably Republicans) do have a part ot play but seems to be really down to providing the $$$. They appear to have v. little say how the $$$ is managed? John Hagee being the ultimate Charlatan - joke and paid tool of the Israeli right?

    The International Fellowship of Christians and Jews
    link to ifcj.org

    The IFCJ doesn't Lobby as I can see (maybe somebody else knows more about these guys)? AIPAC and the Jewish federations seem to do that. I can see why the IFCJ wants to stay under the radar when it's collecting $$$ (under a false pretext) from idiots, where it's quickly funneled over to Israel. Once that money $$$ arrives in Israel what power do the IRS, or any US financial jurisdiction have over where that money goes and how it's spent? Does anyone really think the Israelis have the same intentions as the Christian Zionists?

    Jonathan Tobin in 2004: "...The International Fellowship of Christians and Jews (www.ifcj.org) has been around for two decades, operating on the margins of the Jewish world but deeply embedded in the hearts of evangelicals.

    Founded by Chicago-based Yechiel Eckstein, an Orthodox rabbi, and intended to be a partnership between Jews and non-Jews, some 98 percent to 99 percent of its money now comes from the Christian right.

    Where does the money go? To the same sort of programs that dollars raised by local Jewish federations across the country: to aid in the immigration and absorption of Jews to Israel, and to help care for needy Jews and endangered Jewish communities in places like the former Soviet Union, much of it via the Jewish Agency for Israel and the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee..."

    link to jewishworldreview.com

    OK, that seems to make sense... From Donald Wagner (via Theocracy Watch link - a site I often visited when Bush was in power):

    "...Likud also turned to the Christian Zionists for help in offsetting the dramatic decline in contributions to Israel from the American Jewish establishment during the conflict between the Orthodox and Reform-Conservative branches of Judaism. When the latter cut back on their contributions to the Jewish National Fund in the late 1990s, several Christian Zionist-oriented churches were asked to make up the difference. The International Fellowship of Christians and Jews, led by a former Anti-Defamation League employee and Orthodox rabbi, Yechiel Eckstein, claimed to have raised over $5 million, mostly from fundamentalist Christian sources. .."

    link to informationclearinghouse.info

    It's now up to over $95 million -- what idiots!

    link to ifcj.org

    Both Republicans and Zionist Democrats are fawning over Netanyahu (Likud).

  • Sand November 26, 2011 at 1:00 pm

    Anyways, I’m not sure there are enough Christian Zionists out there to get anywhere near the power of the Jewish Zionists.

  • Sand November 26, 2011 at 12:29 pm

    Thanks MRW -- I've been to their site many times. Also, read most of what they've had to say about the man -- his events etc. But I couldn't seem to find the answer about how he commands the financial assets of his flock? It seems he collects their money and then he decides how it's allocated, and to whom? Normally, if you have a particular issue you wish to focus on,and "create leverage" you create a PAC e.g. like NORPAC. Those donors know exactly where their money is going to "create leverage"! NORPAC is very savvy and focused in that way!

    I'm wondering does John Hagee have an office in Israel or is all/most of the money funneled through Yechiel Eckstein's (as well as being an ex-employee of ADL -- I found out) - "International Fellowship of Christians and Jews"? Who takes charge once the money and settlers arrive in Israel?

    Debate over aliyah erupts at Jewish Agency meeting
    November 18, 2011
    link to jta.org

    Also, NORPAC (one of many Pro-Israel PACs) can get a 1000 foaming at the mouth Jewish constituents bused in to Washington D.C. CUFI can only get 5,000 'Christian' Zionists nationally? -- and look at their faces. You can see this is not an AIPAC crowd. Especially look at the little girl with the dark hair -- she reminded of the girl in the Vendetta movie - having to watch propaganda news on TV and finally walks away in disgust announcing "Bullshit" ha!

    link to sacornerstone.org

    Anyways, I'm not sure there aren't enough Christian Zionists out there to get anywhere near the power of the Jewish Zionists.

    Hey and check this out this new Pew report:

    Lobbying for the Faithful: Religious Advocacy Groups in Washington, D.C.
    ANALYSIS
    November 21, 2011

    Note: Pew has put AIPAC in the religious category -- I mean duh! coz Israel is a 'Jewish' State as our Congress critters keep telling us.

    No surprises AIPAC hits No. 1 place. Catholic religious organizations come up a massive $60,000,000 short to come in 2nd. Somehow, I don't think Christian Zionists like John Hagee are making much of a dent on the Hill when it comes to Israel.

    link to pewforum.org

  • Sand November 26, 2011 at 1:06 am

    I should qualify "appears, there's not that many" i.e. when looking at self-identified Jewish polls.

    Also, another fact I didn't know:

    75% of North American Jews [become] members of congregations at some point in their lifetime..."

    Taken from: Synagogue Renewal and the Role of Federations
    By Ron Wolfson, Lawrence A. Hoffman
    Jewish Communal Service Association of North America (JCSA), Winter 2010
    link to bjpa.org

  • Sand November 26, 2011 at 12:52 am

    tombishop: link to cufi.org. Thanks. Did you check out Brog's Blog? David Brog the Executive Director of CUFI. This guy was working in the Jewish Zionist camp long before he got involved with the Christian CUFI Zionists.

    "...Before his work with CUFI, Brog worked in the United States Senate for seven years, rising to be chief of staff to [Senator Arlen Specter - not noted on his CUFI website. Sen. Arlen Specter the guy who went off to Syria at least 18 times to negotiate on behalf of Israel without it seems the knowledge of the US State Dept half the time] and staff director of the Senate Judiciary Committee..."

    At this point, with a lack of a money trail with Christian Zionist pro-Israel $$$ PACs, I'm wondering how much Jewish Zionist $$$ is actually funding CUFI?

    <link to ynetnews.com

    Brog's Blog
    link to cufi.org

  • Sand November 26, 2011 at 12:21 am with 1 replies

    Les: "...He uses “Jewish Lobby” when he means the American Jewish branch of the “Israel Lobby.” If there is such a thing as a Jewish Lobby created to support Israel at all costs, what does one call those Jews who disagree?.

    I don't know. I'm still waiting to hear that massive group that has that authentic anti-zionist voice? There are some brave souls -- not many, but there are some. Like Sylvia Schwarz of the International Jewish Anti-Zionist Network, some members of the Jewish Voices for Peace, Medea Benjamin - Code Pink, and others. When competing against the Jewish Zionist force out there overt and covert there's not that many.

    link to mondoweiss.net

    There's also the 'American Council for Judaism' who have to fight off the frauds like J-Street and others. I keep looking.

    NYTimes Article: American Jews Who Reject Zionism Say Events Aid Cause (06/25/10)
    link to nytimes.com

    'American Council for Judaism'
    link to acjna.org

  • Sand November 25, 2011 at 3:42 pm with 6 replies

    In fact, I just tried searching on OpenSecrets.org to see if I could find one Christian Zionist pro-Israel PAC? Apparently, CUFI's John Hagee has one -- but I couldn't find it. Does anyone know what it is called?

  • Sand November 25, 2011 at 3:03 pm with 7 replies

    I see Christian Zionists in the Republican Party, but I don't see them in the Democratic Party? However, I do see the Jewish Zionists in both. Jewish Zionists giving money to both parties -- not so with Christian Zionists -- they are far too partisan.

    tombishop: "...witnessed the symbiotic relationship which exists between Orthodox Jews and evangelical Christians...

    I can believe that, although it doesn't seem rational does it. The Israelis making friends with the likes of Mike Bickle (the "prison camps" for Jews guy)??? Bizarre! But they are more than happy to use him as a tool:

    link to talk2action.org

    "...shortly after the Israel Mandate conference, Stearns [CUFI director] hosted Yuli Edelstein, Israeli Minister of Information and Diaspora, on a conference call with 500 Christian Zionist participants, focused on the Gaza flotilla incident, with no mention of the end times. Mike Bickle asked Edelstein to suggest concrete political actions that could be taken, and following Edelstein’s response, Stearns thanked Bickle for working to “cultivate a heart for Israel in the nations and specifically the next generation.”..."

    link to zeek.forward.com

    I mean, why should I feel the slightest bit sorry for the likes of Elaine Fogel when I know -- she knows that Israel is playing nice with these guys?

  • Sand November 25, 2011 at 1:25 pm with 1 replies

    BTW: Biden's has been summoned by "Jewish American leaders" (including the Rabbis no doubt) AGAIN on Pollard!

    Biden Meets With Jewish Leaders About Pollard Case
    Tuesday, November 22, 2011
    JTA
    link to thejewishweek.com

    If this guy does get released then he should be treated with at least the same amount of contempt given to the Lockerbie bomber when he was flown home. A full hour documentary on PBS is required to show the crimes he committed against the United States to the United States National Security! Also, those who continually badged the Administration asking for his release should be interviewed and profiled!

  • Sand November 25, 2011 at 1:11 pm with 4 replies

    I agree -- as an observer it really does look as if Judaism has been swallowed up by Zionism. Judaism has become part of the Lobby. As the Christian Zionists have attached themselves to the Republicans, the American Jewish (religious) Zionists have binded themselves to the Democratic Party -- and everyone else is expected to lump it.

    Obervations:

    With ..."the disturbing level of discontent with the Jewish state among a number of Reform, Conservative and Reconstructionist rabbinical students spending a year in Israel..." The answer from their spirtual leaders "...“The central objective of the program is to build a Zionist mindset,” said Rabbi Ammiel Hirsch of the Stephen Wise Free Synagogue (Reform) in Manhattan. “Otherwise it’s a wasted opportunity.”

    link to thejewishweek.com

    And when you have ex-J-Streeter (An organization supposed to be close to the Administration), URJ President-Elect Rabbi Richard Jacobs
    quoting Daniel Pipes favourably you can see many of us are seeing a massive perverted trend before us.

    My Heart is in the East: My Zionist Commitments
    Delivered by Rabbi Richard Jacobs at the Religious Action Center's Consultation on Conscience, Washington, D.C.

    "...Now, being pro-Israel means always standing in solidarity with the State of Israel. To me, Jewish life cannot be imagined without Israel at its core. ... But our love for Israel is not dependent on who is prime minister or on what issues are before the Knesset or the chief rabbinate.

    Daniel Pipes, an academic known for his hard-line Middle East views, had it right when he said recently "that anyone concerned about the security and welfare of Israel is in the pro-Israel camp."

    ...I agree wholeheartedly with Rabbi Saperstein's decision to speak at the conference, to assert again how vital movement towards a peace process is to Israel's security and America's interests, to offer thoughtful criticism of J Street's policy making, but also to offer a strong critique of J Street's stand opposing the recent US veto of the UN resolution condemning Israeli settlements.

    This coming from the supposedly progressive liberal wing of Judaism? Where's the outcry from URJ congregations?

    link to urj.org

    URJ's equivalent program to 'BIRTHRIGHT':

    Israel, Up Close and Personal (July 25, 2011)
    By Rabbi Richard Jacobs, URJ President-Elect

    "...Just days before, these Reform Jewish teens had left their homes in North America and traveled to Eastern Europe where they stood together at Auschwitz and Birkenau contemplating the darkest moment in all of human history. Having experienced the remnants of Jewish life in Prague, they would journey next to the home most had not yet visited [Israel]..."

    link to israel.rjblog.org

• Salon: Israel pushes US warmongering via neocon dog-tail-waggers
  • Sand November 26, 2011 at 4:01 pm

    "...“the Jews”

    Isn't that why more and more people are using the word Zionist Jews noting not all Jews are Zionist? As well as not all Zionists are Jews. So the topic of "Zionism" needs to be discussed not "the Jews"?

    As well as going back to the debate that "Zionism is racist".

• Netanyahu takes another step to demolish the brand
  • Sand November 24, 2011 at 4:41 pm

    Bibi: "When he cautioned Barack Obama and other western leaders against backing the revolt against Hosni Mubarak's regime, he was told he failed to understand reality. "I ask today, who here didn't understand reality? Who here didn't understand history?"..."

    In other words: 'I told 'em -- Israel must be the .... ONLY Democracy [nb: using Bibi's definition of Democracy] in the Middle East! Come hell or high water -- we needed those paid thugs around us to keep order and to maintain our unique little State of Jewish values and priviledge. bunker down mutter mutter bunker down -- we will keep what is ours forever and ever.'

    Is there a checks and balances sanity clause in Israel?

• Who's on top in VF piece-- 'Tom Buchanan' Winkelvosses or 'lifelong elite' Zuckerberg?
  • Sand November 24, 2011 at 4:12 pm

    Myself, I came from domestic service and miners stock.

  • Sand November 23, 2011 at 8:42 pm with 8 replies

    Hmm... Somehow I don't think this WASP vs. Jews history will be in Simon Schama's ~ up and coming "The History Of The Jews"

• 'J Street' distances itself from board member who met with Hamas officials
  • Sand November 22, 2011 at 1:20 pm with 2 replies

    Philip Weiss: "kudos to Peratis. Maybe a sign of things to come?

    Sorry, I just see her as part of the problem, not the solution. A spoke in the wheel of the Zionist J-Street left flank -- appearing to be to be conciliatory, but all the while the theft of land, and the discrimation of the Palestinian people are muzzled and ignored by J-Street's right flank.

    Sorry to be cynical -- but I'm looking for results -- not cheery photo-ops of fringe J-Street members (as well as being on the board of Human Rights Watch) shaking hands with the supposed zionist enemy and this to be seen as a sign of bravery, or even progress.

    Unfortunately, I couldn't link to the original article/debate to see Kathleen Peratis in action -- but I think David Samel's response was interesting, showing -- bottom line what Ms. Kathleen Peratis modus operandi really is.

    Put it down and walk away?! (an exchange over BDS, and Israel, between 2 Jewish lawyers)
    by David Samel and Kathleen Peratis on November 22, 2010 86

    link to mondoweiss.net

• The problem with 'occupation' in the occupy movement
  • Sand November 22, 2011 at 11:30 am

    I agree, this should be the focus. The money trail and those who manage it, protect it, and definitely profit from it.

• Unprecedented Minneapolis forum of 4 Jews arguing about Israel is on-line now
  • Sand November 20, 2011 at 5:52 pm with 1 replies

    The Jewish Federation guy was not a happy bunny was he! Also, Ron Garber from J-Street you could see was getting really uncomfortable when he felt his agenda of maintaining the "status quo", wasn't going down too well. I can see how important that 'Jewish' holiday home is to him. It was pretty obvious -- he was not there to listen.

    Kudos to Sylvia Schwarz, and that brave woman who came up to the lectern and spoke truth to power.

• Phoenix Jewish columnist says Obama's complaint about Netanyahu made American Jews feel unsafe
  • Sand November 20, 2011 at 11:02 pm

    Elaine: "...Cliff, I don’t expect non-Jews to understand Diaspora Jewish devotion to the State of Israel. Some will and some won’t..."

    Don't worry Elaine, I understand it's because you're 'special' isn't it. Scary place that anti-semitic Diaspora world you live in. But I bet it's good to know you can always bunker down in Israel if needs be -- a happy place where you don't need to trust anyone else except your fellow Jews (as well as knowing the US taxpayers will pay for the privilege). I know, you just need a few more years to expunge those "anti-semite" crayon drawing Palestinian kids from the place, and all will be well.

    Unbelievable Elaine!

  • Sand November 19, 2011 at 2:23 pm

    The ADL -- well! But look at the OSCE -- arghh!

    JTA: Report: Hate crimes data in Europe inadequate
    November 18, 2011

    WASHINGTON (JTA) -- "The European body monitoring hate crimes said that governments fail to provide adequate data.

    A report on hate crimes in 2010 released this month by the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe found that some states do not collect any data all on such crimes, a finding that was backed by the Anti-Defamation League and Human Rights First..."

    link to jta.org

    This pathological need or obsession to find out what people think of them -- to the point of taking over NGO's as well as government entities to drive their obsessive agenda is just plain bizarre.

    I just hope they stay out of NATO!!!

  • Sand November 19, 2011 at 12:16 pm with 1 replies

    All I can say is I've met them -- they first come across as humane and caring describing themselves as liberal and progressive Democrats -- caring about the social issues of the day -- BUT they certainly don't come across that way when you start talking negatively about Israel -- and definitely not when you talk about negotiating with IRAN. Some of them would send American kids to war for Israel in a heart beat. The transformation is stunning!

    Polls are one thing, I agree -- but when you meet them face to face -- boy oh boy@! There's no give -- they demand you be a Democrat faithful to Israel. I can't do that. In my mind the Democratic party is dead -- it's the Likud party now.

    Thanks Saban for your AIPAC Intern program - NOT.

• Derfner slams Jason Alexander as yet another 'evenhanded liberal failure'
  • Sand November 20, 2011 at 1:00 pm

    US citizens : Most US citizens are absolutely clueless. The MSM is crap, the education system doesn't teach civics, world history, even geography. Throw in religion and you also have a fair number who are basically brain dead.

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