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WASHINGTON (JTA) — President Clinton joked at a fund-raising event that he, too, should get some credit for making Jewish history. "I know that it's a big deal to have the first Jewish vice presidential nominee, but I mean, come on now. Look at American history.

"That is nothing compared to the first Jewish agriculture secretary," he said, referring to his appointment of Agriculture Secretary Dan Glickman.

"Just with a decision I destroyed one of the great stereotypes in American life: Nobody thinks 'Jewish farmer' is an oxymoron anymore."

Prospects dimming for hate crimes bill

WASHINGTON (JTA) — Despite a major setback, Jewish groups say they're optimistic they can find another way to get hate crimes legislation passed before Congress adjourns this term.

According to Michael Lieberman, Washington counsel for the Anti-Defamation League, it was "unwelcome, but not unexpected" that a hate crimes measure was stripped out of congressional legislation last Thursday, hurting the chances of a federal law passing this year.

The ADL hopes to get the hate crimes legislation attached to one of the 11 still-unfinished appropriations bills that will have to be worked out before Congress adjourns later this month.

The controversial legislation would authorize federal prosecution of crimes motivated by sexual orientation, gender, or disability, expanding the current laws that protect victims of crimes motivated by race, color, religion or ethnicity.