I just don't get the BDS obsession with SodaStream and the silence of those same "seekers of justice" regarding the horrific situation in other countries in the region.  It's the singular focus on Israel that makes me think that perhaps there's another agenda (or obsession) at play...

Ripped from the headlines of the Jerusalem Post. Did I mention that one of the websites used to promote a recent regional BDS conference used an Israeli website builder?  Oops.  Someone must've told the organizers, because the platform was changed.

Why is it the mere mention of Israel causes people to rise (or sink) to a different level?  Our Independence Day on the 4th of July is synonymous with hot dogs, beer, apple pie and great sales - not with serious inner reflection and contrition.  But mention any celebration of Israel, and the nay-sayers seem to step up and want a self-criticism rather than a celebration.  Which would be fine if the nay-sayers said that about every country.  But in my experience, the same folks who are so critical of Israel, will happily live in their own countries and enjoy the party.  #doublestandard

It's a sad irony when academic freedom is stifled in the name of academic freedom. What's going on?  Read here for more information.

Don't they say in science (and in law) --  the easiest explanation for something is usually the right one.  I was pretty amused at the BDS conference I attended, where the speakers engaged in distorted machinations to offer cynical explanations as to why Israel is on the cutting edge of biotech and LGBT civil rights in the region.  It's really not that difficult. Israel wants to help heal the world.  It may not always be successful, there may be problems, but it really is that simple.  

Last week's BDS conference I attended is still weighing heavily on my mind.  When I heard the title of JT's new album (and I love JT -- he's the best!), the first feeling that popped into my mind was the feeling that even in this day and age, there is so much antiSemitism.  Why can't people see to stop that feeling?

The other day, there was a demonstration in town.  The anti-Israel faction had a big sign that said "Free Speech."  We support that too!  Journalists are censored by the Palestinian Authority and by Hamas.  Hebron journalist Adib al-Atrash was just arrested by the Palestinian Authority.  Why?  No reason was given.  Want to write and say what you want?  Visit Israel, where you're entitled to speak and write freely.  We hope our friends work to secure free speech rights for everyone.  

Puggy attended a BDS conference this weekend, and wow - what an eye-opener that was!  Click on the links to learn more about the crimes of terrorists Leila Khaled and Rasmieh Odeh and to learn about the horrific grocery store bombing.