Dome event to mark Israel's 60th anniversary; protest in works, too

By PAUL WALSH, Star Tribune

Last update: May 6, 2008 - 12:27 PM

A celebration marking Israel's 60th anniversary of independence is scheduled for the Metrodome this week.

Various Jewish groups in the Twin Cities area are coordinating the free event on Wednesday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Gov. Tim Pawlenty will give the keynote address.

Israeli dance, music and food will be featured. Israeli National Theater performer Dganit Daddo will put on a concert.

Also included is an exhibit called "Walk the Land," which will have depictions of Israeli cities and landmarks.

Another highlight will be the unveiling of 5-foot-tall "Peace Dove" statues.

From a different perspective, the Coalition for Palestinian Rights intends to protest outside the Metrodome starting at 4:30 p.m. Wednesday. The Minnesota-based coalition includes activists and groups "that are in solidarity with Palestinian rights," its website says, adding that "the founding of Israel in 1948 was a catastrophe for Palestinians."

Paul Walsh • 612-673-4482

Recent Local + Metro stories

Deputy fire chief demoted to captain in Minneapolis - May 6, 2008

Deputy fire chief demoted to captain in Minneapolis - Jean Kidd, one of the first female firefighters hired in Minneapolis, was demoted last week from her appointed position as deputy chief to her most recent civil service rank of captain. More