Only in Israel could a right wing party join a left or left of center party in the coalition,even though they are on opposite sides of the major issues.These include settlements,government reform, civil marriages and defense issues.
What is amazing is that Avigdor Lieberman's new role in the cabinet,will be to focus on the Iranian threat to Israel.By limiting his scope of influence,Olmert believes he has not taken any responsibilities away from the Defense Minister,Foreign Minister or Shabak(intelligence) head.
The problem,is that the Iranian threat is not a stand alone problem,but intertwined with foreign policy(Russia,the UN,the U.S.) and requires in depth knowledge of the military situation and specifically the nuclear capabilities of Iran,which the Intelligence Chief and the Defense Minister say they will not share with Lieberman.At the end of the day,that problem of sharing information will work out.Howevever,a minister in charge of one issue with his own foreign policy can only lead to much public and private problems for Israel.
All this in order for Olmert to avoid early elections.
What is Lieberman's goal-aside from a title and a government limo.Some observers
believe it is to prolong the Olmert administration for three more years,by giving him the extra votes in the knesset(11 more).This in essence would block Likud from forcing new elections,which might see a Bibi prime-ministership.Perhaps in three years,Lieberman will have created a different MODERATE image that would allow him to eclipse Likud and propel him to the top slot as a right wing substitute for Likud .
How the Pensioners Party and more importantly the Labor party were able to accept this deal,speaks to the dysfunctionality of Israel's political system. Kudos to Minister Pines-Paz who resigned from the Cabinet on a matter of principle and will challenge Peretz for Labor Party leader.
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Sunday, October 29, 2006
The chicken smells 10/29/06
The story is told of an elderly Jewish woman who is inspecting her chicken and by accident drops it into a pail of turpentine.She washes it off and rushes to the Rabbi to inquire as to whether the chicken is kosher.
"Yes " says the Rabbi, "but it sure smells."
Reading todays NY Times story on Sen Bob Menendez and his business machinations brings this story to the forefront.I cannot tell you if there is illegality present.however I know that it represents clubhouse politics as a fine-tuned corporate machine,that leaves the reader stunned by its audacity
Perhaps that is the normalcy that the NJ electorate expects in their elected officials.Bring home the bacon (pardon the pun) and simply hold your nose.
"Yes " says the Rabbi, "but it sure smells."
Reading todays NY Times story on Sen Bob Menendez and his business machinations brings this story to the forefront.I cannot tell you if there is illegality present.however I know that it represents clubhouse politics as a fine-tuned corporate machine,that leaves the reader stunned by its audacity
Perhaps that is the normalcy that the NJ electorate expects in their elected officials.Bring home the bacon (pardon the pun) and simply hold your nose.
Disney 10/29/06
My wife and I spent last week in Orlando with one of our grandchildren enjoying Disney.We have made it a custom to celebrate their fifth birthday with such a trip,and this was our fifth such occasion.
I find it amazing that with tens of thousands of daily visitors from all over the world there is a total absence of rowdiness or pushing.The very same people,who in their daily lives drive aggressively,or try to cut ahead of the line,politely wait their turn with a smile and calm.When the security person asks the visitors to move to the very end of the row,no one refuses,or says they need a middle seat.
In addition except for one soda bottle on the floor,we saw no littering.Moreover we saw a politeness on the part of adults toward seniors,and the disabled.
Part of the answer might be the nature of a vacation.But I believe a lot has to do with the presence of children and grandchildren,and the common goal of having a good time.
One complaint-we saw the Lion King twice,and on both occasion,the public announcement regarding flash photography etc was in spanish first.The last I heard ,Orlando was still in the U.S.In addition a cursory exam revealed the majority of visitors were from the States.
I find it amazing that with tens of thousands of daily visitors from all over the world there is a total absence of rowdiness or pushing.The very same people,who in their daily lives drive aggressively,or try to cut ahead of the line,politely wait their turn with a smile and calm.When the security person asks the visitors to move to the very end of the row,no one refuses,or says they need a middle seat.
In addition except for one soda bottle on the floor,we saw no littering.Moreover we saw a politeness on the part of adults toward seniors,and the disabled.
Part of the answer might be the nature of a vacation.But I believe a lot has to do with the presence of children and grandchildren,and the common goal of having a good time.
One complaint-we saw the Lion King twice,and on both occasion,the public announcement regarding flash photography etc was in spanish first.The last I heard ,Orlando was still in the U.S.In addition a cursory exam revealed the majority of visitors were from the States.
Sunday, October 22, 2006
Barack Obama-how about some accomplishments before you run for President==10/22/06
I recall the 2004 Democratic National convention,when I first got a good look at Barack Obama.Only a candidate for the US Senate, this seven year veteran of the Illinois state Senate,was being pushed by the liberal commentators of CNN and at least one network,as a future presidential candidate-no I'm sorry a future President.
No mind that he had no accomplishments,or record. The fact that he was AFRICAN-american,a graduate of Columbia and Harvard Law School, was enough to allow him to lead the free world.
Now,with 21 months of not exactly outstanding service in the Senate,Oprah ,Cong Maxine Waters and liberal commentators have seen enough.
GO_BARACK_GO.
I can't recall a leadership role in the committees he serves on(Environment,Veterans Affairs and Foreign Relations),or in any important legislation either proposed or passed.
I do recall him visiting Africa, and waving for the cameras.His current book signings has recieved the full CNN coverage.
Yes he is attractive and charismatic,but what doed he stand for? who are his political allies? what about N.Korea? the Middle East? Iran ? the economy, taxes ,affirmative action,immigration etc . etc?
What single important issue has he adopted as his own, and which controversies has he been able to steer his party through? A leader without having been involved in political controversies,is a man without true political principles.
There are many attractive Democrats who can throw their hats into the ring, based upon a record from which the voters can choose.Oprah and Barbara Streisand and the molders of personalities and stars, must not be allowed to shape the political agenda.
No mind that he had no accomplishments,or record. The fact that he was AFRICAN-american,a graduate of Columbia and Harvard Law School, was enough to allow him to lead the free world.
Now,with 21 months of not exactly outstanding service in the Senate,Oprah ,Cong Maxine Waters and liberal commentators have seen enough.
GO_BARACK_GO.
I can't recall a leadership role in the committees he serves on(Environment,Veterans Affairs and Foreign Relations),or in any important legislation either proposed or passed.
I do recall him visiting Africa, and waving for the cameras.His current book signings has recieved the full CNN coverage.
Yes he is attractive and charismatic,but what doed he stand for? who are his political allies? what about N.Korea? the Middle East? Iran ? the economy, taxes ,affirmative action,immigration etc . etc?
What single important issue has he adopted as his own, and which controversies has he been able to steer his party through? A leader without having been involved in political controversies,is a man without true political principles.
There are many attractive Democrats who can throw their hats into the ring, based upon a record from which the voters can choose.Oprah and Barbara Streisand and the molders of personalities and stars, must not be allowed to shape the political agenda.
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
President Katzav must step down 10/18/06
I have had the honor to meet Prident Katzav on a number of occasions,in small and large groups.
When our Good Samaritan Hospital talmud group went to Israel for the first time,I arranged for us to pray one morning in the President's private synagogue on the grounds of the Presidential Home.After the services,he spent some time with our group posing for pictures,and just being the warm considerate host that he is known for.
Thus, when our group found out about the charges against the President,it was not only shocking ,but almost unbelievable.
As a citizen in a democracy,he is innocent until proven guilty.However,as the symbol of the Israeli nation, he must be above suspicion.
He owes it to the nation and world Jewry to resign,and not wait for the decision of the Attorney General to indict.Barring that, he should temporarily step down until a decision is made,and allow the Speaker of the Knesset to serve as acting President in the interim.
In this case, the needs of the Jewish nation must take precedence over personal rights.The nation can no longer bear the shame of daily press leaks and charges against a sitting President.
When our Good Samaritan Hospital talmud group went to Israel for the first time,I arranged for us to pray one morning in the President's private synagogue on the grounds of the Presidential Home.After the services,he spent some time with our group posing for pictures,and just being the warm considerate host that he is known for.
Thus, when our group found out about the charges against the President,it was not only shocking ,but almost unbelievable.
As a citizen in a democracy,he is innocent until proven guilty.However,as the symbol of the Israeli nation, he must be above suspicion.
He owes it to the nation and world Jewry to resign,and not wait for the decision of the Attorney General to indict.Barring that, he should temporarily step down until a decision is made,and allow the Speaker of the Knesset to serve as acting President in the interim.
In this case, the needs of the Jewish nation must take precedence over personal rights.The nation can no longer bear the shame of daily press leaks and charges against a sitting President.
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Jerusalem extension/ Homowack retraction/Hamas rearms 10/17/06
The failure of Israel to proceed with the Maale Adumim extension is a major blunder
on the part of the Olmert government.There is no reason to believe that halting this project will in any way advance the "peace process".
American pressure is not something new,but Israel has to have the backbone to stand up for their needs.,and say NO to Sec Rice.
Jerusalem must grow,and the Maale Adumim plans have been on the drawing board and ready to go for years.
Whether Israel eventually approves the Safdie westward plan or not,the claims of Israeli sovereignty over Maale Adumim are placed in jeapordy by shelving the construction.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I previously reported on the impending demise of the Homowack Hotel in Spring Glen,NY.The new owners have decided to put new funding into the hotel and run it as the Mountain Spring Hotel.
I once again was there for the last two says of Succoth as Scholar -in-residence,and we had a wonderful Yom Tov.
Throughout the winter they have scheduled affairs such as Bar-Mitzvahs and Sheva Brachot,and will be open for Pesach
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The reports today and yesterday that Hamas is massively smuggling anti-tank and anti-aircraft missiles into Gaza is quite disconcerting.Taken togther with the discovery of two tunnels, and the anouncement by Iran that they will train Hamas in the methods used by Hezbollah all add up to an impending major conflict in this area.
The Olmert disengagement in coming home to roost.Israeli lives will be lost due to poor leadership.
Incidentally who doesn't believe that eventually the 1 million rounds of ammunition given by the US to Fatah to protect Abbas, will not be used againt the Israelis?
on the part of the Olmert government.There is no reason to believe that halting this project will in any way advance the "peace process".
American pressure is not something new,but Israel has to have the backbone to stand up for their needs.,and say NO to Sec Rice.
Jerusalem must grow,and the Maale Adumim plans have been on the drawing board and ready to go for years.
Whether Israel eventually approves the Safdie westward plan or not,the claims of Israeli sovereignty over Maale Adumim are placed in jeapordy by shelving the construction.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I previously reported on the impending demise of the Homowack Hotel in Spring Glen,NY.The new owners have decided to put new funding into the hotel and run it as the Mountain Spring Hotel.
I once again was there for the last two says of Succoth as Scholar -in-residence,and we had a wonderful Yom Tov.
Throughout the winter they have scheduled affairs such as Bar-Mitzvahs and Sheva Brachot,and will be open for Pesach
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The reports today and yesterday that Hamas is massively smuggling anti-tank and anti-aircraft missiles into Gaza is quite disconcerting.Taken togther with the discovery of two tunnels, and the anouncement by Iran that they will train Hamas in the methods used by Hezbollah all add up to an impending major conflict in this area.
The Olmert disengagement in coming home to roost.Israeli lives will be lost due to poor leadership.
Incidentally who doesn't believe that eventually the 1 million rounds of ammunition given by the US to Fatah to protect Abbas, will not be used againt the Israelis?
Jerusalem extension/ Homowack retraction/Hamas rearms 10/17/06
The failure of Israel to proceed with the Maale Adumim extension is a major blunder
on the part of the Olmert government.There is no reason to believe that halting this project will in any way advance the "peace process".
American pressure is not something new,but Israel has to have the backbone to stand up for their needs.,and say NO to Sec Rice.
Jerusalem must grow,and the Maale Adumim plans have been on the drawing board and ready to go for years.
Whether Israel eventually approves the Safdie westward plan or not,the claims of Israeli sovereignty over Maale Adumim are placed in jeapordy by shelving the construction.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I previously reported on the impending demise of the Homowack Hotel in Spring Glen,NY.The new owners have decided to put new funding into the hotel and run it as the Mountain Spring Hotel.
I once again was there for the last two says of Succoth as Scholar -in-residence,and we had a wonderful Yom Tov.
Throughout the winter they have scheduled affairs such as Bar-Mitzvahs and Sheva Brachot,and will be open for Pesach
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The reports today and yesterday that Hamas is massively smuggling anti-tank and anti-aircraft missiles into Gaza is quite disconcerting.Taken togther with the discovery of two tunnels, and the anouncement by Iran that they will train Hamas in the methods used by Hezbollah all add up to an impending major conflict in this area.
The Olmert disengagement in coming home to roost.Israeli lives will be lost due to poor leadership.
Incidentally who doesn't believe that eventually the 1 million rounds of ammunition given by the US to Fatah to protect Abbas, will not be used againt the Israelis?
on the part of the Olmert government.There is no reason to believe that halting this project will in any way advance the "peace process".
American pressure is not something new,but Israel has to have the backbone to stand up for their needs.,and say NO to Sec Rice.
Jerusalem must grow,and the Maale Adumim plans have been on the drawing board and ready to go for years.
Whether Israel eventually approves the Safdie westward plan or not,the claims of Israeli sovereignty over Maale Adumim are placed in jeapordy by shelving the construction.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I previously reported on the impending demise of the Homowack Hotel in Spring Glen,NY.The new owners have decided to put new funding into the hotel and run it as the Mountain Spring Hotel.
I once again was there for the last two says of Succoth as Scholar -in-residence,and we had a wonderful Yom Tov.
Throughout the winter they have scheduled affairs such as Bar-Mitzvahs and Sheva Brachot,and will be open for Pesach
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The reports today and yesterday that Hamas is massively smuggling anti-tank and anti-aircraft missiles into Gaza is quite disconcerting.Taken togther with the discovery of two tunnels, and the anouncement by Iran that they will train Hamas in the methods used by Hezbollah all add up to an impending major conflict in this area.
The Olmert disengagement in coming home to roost.Israeli lives will be lost due to poor leadership.
Incidentally who doesn't believe that eventually the 1 million rounds of ammunition given by the US to Fatah to protect Abbas, will not be used againt the Israelis?
Thursday, October 12, 2006
The Soros (?pro) Israel Lobby 10/11/06
The news that George Soros plans to fund a new organization that will be an alternative to AIPAC is interesting and sad.
In truth over the last ten to fifteen years, we have already witnessed attempts to undermine the organized Jewish Community by left wingers.
The Israel Policy forum is one such group, that had a relationship with PM Barak.Nevertheless,Barak learned that the Israeli government benefitted not from some small group,but the united power of the most effective foreign policy lobby in Washington-AIPAC.
The other group is Americans For Peace Now which has lobbied against settlements and for a dovish left wing approach to the Israel-Palestinian conflict.
With money,Soros can form whatever he likes.However his public calls on the President to force Israel to make concessions, will surely fall on deaf ears in the White House.For with all his might and money,he seeks to undermine President Bush, his policies as well as the Republican party.
The power of Aipac contrary to the infamous writings of Walt and Mearsheimer(who are making a cottage industry of bashing the unfettered power of the Israel lobby)is based upon firstly a united Jewish Community.Examine the back of Aipac's stationary,and you will note that the President of each major Jewish organization sits on the Board.Thus all 52 components of the Conference of Presidents have a chance to voice their opinions at Board meeings of Aipac.As OU President,I attended these meetings,and took an active part in helping to formulate the annual policy statement draft,that was voted on at the annual policy conference by the 3000 delegates.
Sadly neither the Israel Policy Forum or the Peace Now group are members of the Presidents Conference.This is because they are not a membership organization with enough members to qualify. Money they have-Dedicated spokesmen they also have .However a large constituency is another matter.
It will not be hard for Soros to gather a combination of lefties, ,arabists in disguise and the usual cast of characters to attempt to divide the pro-Israel sentiment of the nation and the Congress.
However the second reason for the success of Aipac is the support of Christians both evangelical and non-evangelical who understand the crical role that Israel plays in the war on terror and the need for Israel to be resolute in defense of its freedom and security.
Finally American political leaders and opinion makers are united with Congress in supporting pro-Israel policies,even when there are almost no Jews living in a Congressional district.Aipac and pro-Israel legislation is bi-partisan and non-partisan.Characterizing Aipac as a right wing organization,mislabels their wide and almost universal support in our community.
Yes Soros has the ability to generate headlines and controversy.Sadly at this moment of national crisis-with N. korea and Iran trying to blackmail the world-to the detriment of Israel ,Syria threatening a new war,Hezbollah and Hamas undefeated one should really question the wisdom of trying to weaken AIPAC.
Finally ,I would like to recall the massive turnout in Washington a few years ago on a few days notice.Hundreds of thousands mobilized by the Presidents Conference and its contituent national ( and local affiliates)organizations.
In the final analysis AIPAC IS THE ORGANIZED JEWISH COMMUNITY, and while alternative groups can make as much commotion as their press releases allow.the believers of a strong U.S.-Israel relationship ,working in the trenches of each Congressional and Senate campaign,will continue the task of strengthening Aipac .
In truth over the last ten to fifteen years, we have already witnessed attempts to undermine the organized Jewish Community by left wingers.
The Israel Policy forum is one such group, that had a relationship with PM Barak.Nevertheless,Barak learned that the Israeli government benefitted not from some small group,but the united power of the most effective foreign policy lobby in Washington-AIPAC.
The other group is Americans For Peace Now which has lobbied against settlements and for a dovish left wing approach to the Israel-Palestinian conflict.
With money,Soros can form whatever he likes.However his public calls on the President to force Israel to make concessions, will surely fall on deaf ears in the White House.For with all his might and money,he seeks to undermine President Bush, his policies as well as the Republican party.
The power of Aipac contrary to the infamous writings of Walt and Mearsheimer(who are making a cottage industry of bashing the unfettered power of the Israel lobby)is based upon firstly a united Jewish Community.Examine the back of Aipac's stationary,and you will note that the President of each major Jewish organization sits on the Board.Thus all 52 components of the Conference of Presidents have a chance to voice their opinions at Board meeings of Aipac.As OU President,I attended these meetings,and took an active part in helping to formulate the annual policy statement draft,that was voted on at the annual policy conference by the 3000 delegates.
Sadly neither the Israel Policy Forum or the Peace Now group are members of the Presidents Conference.This is because they are not a membership organization with enough members to qualify. Money they have-Dedicated spokesmen they also have .However a large constituency is another matter.
It will not be hard for Soros to gather a combination of lefties, ,arabists in disguise and the usual cast of characters to attempt to divide the pro-Israel sentiment of the nation and the Congress.
However the second reason for the success of Aipac is the support of Christians both evangelical and non-evangelical who understand the crical role that Israel plays in the war on terror and the need for Israel to be resolute in defense of its freedom and security.
Finally American political leaders and opinion makers are united with Congress in supporting pro-Israel policies,even when there are almost no Jews living in a Congressional district.Aipac and pro-Israel legislation is bi-partisan and non-partisan.Characterizing Aipac as a right wing organization,mislabels their wide and almost universal support in our community.
Yes Soros has the ability to generate headlines and controversy.Sadly at this moment of national crisis-with N. korea and Iran trying to blackmail the world-to the detriment of Israel ,Syria threatening a new war,Hezbollah and Hamas undefeated one should really question the wisdom of trying to weaken AIPAC.
Finally ,I would like to recall the massive turnout in Washington a few years ago on a few days notice.Hundreds of thousands mobilized by the Presidents Conference and its contituent national ( and local affiliates)organizations.
In the final analysis AIPAC IS THE ORGANIZED JEWISH COMMUNITY, and while alternative groups can make as much commotion as their press releases allow.the believers of a strong U.S.-Israel relationship ,working in the trenches of each Congressional and Senate campaign,will continue the task of strengthening Aipac .
Monday, October 09, 2006
The 2006 elections 10/9/06
I admit that a sense of malaise and laziness brought this blog to a halt(with a trip to the Greek Isles sandwiched in between).In truth during my career as a surgeon and in my tenure at the OU, I always had a secretary who would immediately type my dictations.For me typing is a great burden ,and that to some extent explains why I am not more productive.
However, a number of readers have called asking when I will get back to the blog -so here goes.
Kudos to the 7/11 chain which announced that they will no longer purchase oil from Venezuela for sale by their gas stations.
The polls seem to indicate that the Republicans are in danger of losing one or both Houses of Congress.While it is still early and a lot can change,if they they do lose they will have brought it upon themselves.
The President,and the leadership have failed to deliver on:
a reduction in the budget,waste and spending
the end of the corrupt practice of earmarking- and such spending, as the bridge to nowhere
malpractice reform
tax reform ,and the permanency of the tax cuts
the end of the "death" tax
lobbying reform after the Abramoff scandal
wasting precious time and political capital on privitization of social security
true security of our borders,including ports,and an end to massive illegal immigration
From my point of view, a Speaker Pelosi,and a group of left wing committee chairmen is a most undersirable outcome. Perhaps a two year hiatus will wake the Republicans up.
However, a number of readers have called asking when I will get back to the blog -so here goes.
Kudos to the 7/11 chain which announced that they will no longer purchase oil from Venezuela for sale by their gas stations.
The polls seem to indicate that the Republicans are in danger of losing one or both Houses of Congress.While it is still early and a lot can change,if they they do lose they will have brought it upon themselves.
The President,and the leadership have failed to deliver on:
a reduction in the budget,waste and spending
the end of the corrupt practice of earmarking- and such spending, as the bridge to nowhere
malpractice reform
tax reform ,and the permanency of the tax cuts
the end of the "death" tax
lobbying reform after the Abramoff scandal
wasting precious time and political capital on privitization of social security
true security of our borders,including ports,and an end to massive illegal immigration
From my point of view, a Speaker Pelosi,and a group of left wing committee chairmen is a most undersirable outcome. Perhaps a two year hiatus will wake the Republicans up.
The 2006 elections 10/9/06
I admit that a sense of malaise and laziness brought this blog to a halt(with a trip to the Greek Isles sandwiched in between).In truth during my career as a surgeon and in my tenure at the OU, I always had a secretary who would immediately type my dictations.For me typing is a great burden ,and that to some extent explains why I am not more productive.
However, a number of readers have called asking when I will get back to the blog -so here goes.
Kudos to the 7/11 chain which announced that they will no longer purchase oil from Venezuela for sale by their gas stations.
The polls seem to indicate that the Republicans are in danger of losing one or both Houses of Congress.While it is still early and a lot can change,if they they do lose they will have brought it upon themselves.
The President,and the leadership have failed to deliver on:
a reduction in the budget,waste and spending
the end of the corrupt practice of earmarking- and such spending, as the bridge to nowhere
malpractice reform
tax reform ,and the permanency of the tax cuts
the end of the "death" tax
lobbying reform after the Abramoff scandal
wasting precious time and political capital on privitization of social security
true security of our borders,including ports,and an end to massive illegal immigration
From my point of view, a Speaker Pelosi,and a group of left wing committee chairmen is a most undersirable outcome. Perhaps a two year hiatus will wake the Republicans up.
However, a number of readers have called asking when I will get back to the blog -so here goes.
Kudos to the 7/11 chain which announced that they will no longer purchase oil from Venezuela for sale by their gas stations.
The polls seem to indicate that the Republicans are in danger of losing one or both Houses of Congress.While it is still early and a lot can change,if they they do lose they will have brought it upon themselves.
The President,and the leadership have failed to deliver on:
a reduction in the budget,waste and spending
the end of the corrupt practice of earmarking- and such spending, as the bridge to nowhere
malpractice reform
tax reform ,and the permanency of the tax cuts
the end of the "death" tax
lobbying reform after the Abramoff scandal
wasting precious time and political capital on privitization of social security
true security of our borders,including ports,and an end to massive illegal immigration
From my point of view, a Speaker Pelosi,and a group of left wing committee chairmen is a most undersirable outcome. Perhaps a two year hiatus will wake the Republicans up.
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