A Jewish Cybercelebration Found at ‘Virtual Homeland’

Billing itself as a “Virtual Homeland,” the second annual Jewish WebWeek hopes to attract hundreds of thousands of Jews around the world to a celebration, Sunday through Feb. 26. By logging on to the host Web site, https://www.jww.org, cyberguests can join together in poetry, discussion, song and prayer.

“The Internet is fostering a renaissance in Jewish learning, living and dialogue,” said Martin Kaminer, Manhattan-based educational software developer and co-founder of the event, which had more than 200,000 hits last year.

The host Web site, reflecting the diverse interests of Jews around the world, offers everything from vegetarian kosher recipes to outlets for political activism. Activities for WebWeek99 include:

* A “Concert for Peace” by Israeli bands made up of Jews and Arabs to be performed online live and cybercast; virtual jam sessions will create collaborative pieces in an online studio.

* Simultaneous live parties at the Hard Rock cafes in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami and Toronto will be connected by satellite and cybercast for singles.

* Education: An online fair will showcase innovative programs utilizing technology in Jewish education.