Blogs

Monday, January 19th, 2009

James Besser in Washington

With just hours left in George W. Bush’s presidency, speculation is at flood tide about possible last-minute pardons and commutations.

Yesterday’s Politico took a look at some high-profile cases that could grab Bush’s attention as he packs his bags for Texas (read the story here) .

Sunday, January 18th, 2009

James Besser in Washington

In a nod to religious diversity, three prominent rabbis representing the biggest streams of Judaism wil take part in a Wednesday prayer service in Washington, along with an Islamic official and other clerics.

Friday, January 16th, 2009

James Besser in Washington

For pro-Israel groups that have been fighting the PR wars since the latest Gaza conflict began in December, the polling news has been mostly good, with indications Americans to blame the Palestinians for the current violence much more than they blame Israel.

What is unclear: just how high a priority the issue is with a populace that has its mind on other things, starting with their disappearing 401Ks an disappearing jobs.

Thursday, January 15th, 2009

James Besser in Washington

Okay, we all know by now that Israel was “justified” in mounting a major offensive against Hamas to stop the rocket fire from Gaza.  We’ve sure heard it enough from Jewish groups across the political spectrum that have rallied to Israel’s defense as, predictably, world opinion turns against the Jewish state.

Monday, January 12th, 2009

The New York State Board of Regents has approved the charter application for the Hebrew Language Academy Charter School, something that is bound to appeal to a great many Jewish parents.

The Hebrew Language Academy would initially enroll 150 kids and could eventually rise to some 675 K-8 students, with priority for residents of District 22 in Midwood, Mill Basin and Sheepshead Bay.

Monday, January 12th, 2009

James Besser in Washington

Pro-Israel groups are still kvelling about last week’s lopsided passage of a House of Representatives resolution expressing support for Israel in the current Gaza crisis and citing a long history of Palestinian attacks justifying Israel’s heavy military response.

Friday, January 9th, 2009

James Besser in Washington

Now that the incoming Barack Obama administration is fleshing out its ranks, talk is hot and heavy about who will handle key Middle East portfolios. And the results are certain to be controversial in a pro-Israel community that is more divided than ever on the best route to peace in the region.

Wednesday, January 7th, 2009

One of the fascinating and never-resolved issues in our community is when and how to hold a pro-Israel rally, and this week’s debate among leaders in New York was a case in point.

Wednesday, January 7th, 2009

After all the years my wife and I have carried  the burden of yeshiva tuition, we never thought we’d see the day we pull one of our children out because of an issue not related to money. But sure enough, because of learning issues that were impeding the progress of one of my kids, we decided an unusual mid-year shift was in order.

Tuesday, January 6th, 2009

James Besser in Washington

So you though those annoying robo-calls were over and done with, now that the long political campaign season is over?

Guess again.