Weekly Edition: September 16th, 2022

Shabbat shalom! We have a busy weekend and week heading into Erev Rosh Hashanah a week from Sunday night (September 25th). This Sunday, September 18, Chany Scheiner of the Boulder County Center for Judaism is hosting a Make and Take Challah Event to prepare for the High Holy Days. Sunday night also marks the premier of “The U.S. and the Holocaust,” documentary maker Ken Burns’ latest effort that will air three parts over three nights (September 18-20) on PBS. Our film critic Kathryn Bernstein interviewed Ken this week in advance of the premier, and Martin Ostrow, a filmmaker whose movie on the same topic aired on PBS in 1994, offers his perspective.

Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with brothers and sisters under attack in Israel, Ukraine, as well as the women of this country.

Stay cool, stay safe and stay healthy!

Here are stories from the last week:

News/Columns/Letters

• Opinion: Hollywood’s Ten Commandments (8/16/2026) - Many of Hollywood’s leading actors have in recent years consistently adopted a clearly anti-Israel agenda, with many critics claiming that their declarations have a stench of anti-Semitism masquerading as criticism of the Jews and the State of Israel. Continue Reading
• Haver Seeking Part-Time Coordinator for Introduction to Judaism Program (8/16/2026) - Boulder Haver seeks a Part-Time Coordinator for its Introduction to Judaism program, supporting teachers and students, managing logistics, and assisting with administrative tasks. Continue Reading
• Jewish Alliance of Colorado Brings Grassroots Jewish Advocacy Statewide (8/13/2026) - The Jewish Alliance of Colorado is a grassroots organization promoting Jewish advocacy, visibility, and Zionism, addressing antisemitism and supporting communities across Colorado. Continue Reading
• Jewish Fertility Foundation Launches Research Grant for REI Fellows (8/13/2026) - The Jewish Fertility Foundation is offering two $10,000 grants for REI fellows researching infertility among Jewish populations, addressing underrepresentation. Continue Reading
• Column: When Keffiyeh-Wearing Patients…er, Shrinks…Take Over the Asylum (8/13/2026) - Bruce Ticker critiques modern psychologists' political advocacy at conventions, particularly relating to Palestinian liberation, while expressing concern over the lack of acknowledgment for Jewish issues and rising antisemitism within the profession. Continue Reading
• Rose Community Foundation Names Karli Sherwinter as Director of Collaborative Philanthropy (8/10/2026) - Karli Sherwinter is appointed Director of Collaborative Philanthropy at Rose Community Foundation, enhancing regional philanthropic efforts and community engagement. Continue Reading
• Letter: West Bank Violence (8/6/2026) - Indeed, there is a lot of violence in Judea and Samaria, areas of historical and religious importance to Jews, called "The West Bank" by people who claim that the Zionist enterprise is "colonialist." Continue Reading
• New Israeli Emissary Brings ‘The Joy From Israel’ (8/2/2026) - Yoav Maoz is appointed as JEWISHcolorado's Senior Israeli Community Emissary, aiming to strengthen ties between Israel and the diaspora while sharing his experiences and values. Continue Reading
• Opinion: Now Haifa is “Occupied Territory” (8/2/2026) - The London borough of Hackney has decided to cancel its twin-city relationship with Haifa. The twinning agreement was signed back in 1968. Hackney’s new mayor, Zoe Garbett, leader of the local Green Party, says she canceled it as a demonstration of “international solidarity.” Continue Reading
• Opinion: “What’s Good for Russia and China Is Bad for the United States” (8/2/2026) - Ron Jager discusses the rise of online antisemitism, its connection to foreign influence, and the urgent need to protect Jewish communities and U.S.-Israel relations. Continue Reading
• Nelly Ben Tal’s Lessons from Three Years of Shlichut in Colorado (7/30/2026) - Nelly Ben Tal reflects on her impactful time in Colorado as the Shlicha, emphasizing community, belonging, lessons learned, and upcoming leadership transition. Continue Reading
• Column: The Fetterman Approach to Israel-Bashers Must Be Replicated Worldwide (7/30/2026) - U.S. Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania proved this week that an advocate for Israel can confront an Israel-basher, shake him up and still stand firm and unyielding. Or stand tall, as John Wayne or Ronald Reagan might word it. Continue Reading
• Letter: Jews Are NOT Settlers (7/30/2026) - I find it extremely offensive to label Jews as extremist settlers! Continue Reading
• Letter: 103 Zionophobic House Democrats Reject JFK and MLK Jr (7/30/2026) - The 103 Zionophobic House Democrats who voted for all time to never support the self defense of the Jewish people of Israel have rejected the proud Zionism of JFK and the proud Zionism of the Rev Dr Martin Luther King Jr. Continue Reading
• Sustainable Israeli-Palestinian Projects Awards $10,000 in Emergency Relief Grants to Address West Bank Violence (7/28/2026) - A Boulder nonprofit is funding four organizations in the West Bank to address urgent needs impacted by escalating settler violence. Continue Reading

Jewish Life

• Where Zen and Zahor Meet (8/16/2026) - Rabbi Eva Sax-Bolder reflects on her annual return to Auschwitz-Birkenau, exploring themes of memory, healing, and the interconnectedness of Judaism and Zen practice in bearing witness. Continue Reading
• SHAVUA: Bringing Yourself into the Jewish Conversation (8/16/2026) - SHAVUA is a guided journal designed to enhance personal reflection and connection through Jewish wisdom, encouraging engagement with timeless ideas throughout the Jewish year. Continue Reading
• Bereaved Israeli Youth Reflect on Transformative U.S. Bnei Mitzvah Journey (8/13/2026) - The IDF Widows & Orphans Organization hosts a program for bereaved children, offering them support and memorable experiences through trips abroad. Continue Reading
• Twelve Tribes, Twelve Months: Elul (8/13/2026) - Rabbi Charna Rosenholtz’s article on Elul emphasizes inner reflection, preparation for renewal, and actionable steps to align values with actions as the new year approaches. Continue Reading
• Gavin Lang Bet Mitzvah (8/13/2026) - On Saturday, August 8th, 2026, Gavin Lang was called to the Torah as Bet Mitzvah at Congregation Har HaShem. Continue Reading
• Adelia Schare Bat Mitzvah (8/13/2026) - On Saturday, August 8th, 2026, Adelia Schare was called to the Torah as Bat Mitzvah at Congregation Bonai Shalom. Continue Reading
• Ten Years of Sunshine, Songs, and Self-Discovery: Celebrating a Decade of Cherryvale Day Camp (8/10/2026) - Cherryvale Day Camp, established in 2016, has become a beloved summer tradition in Boulder, fostering community, friendship, and growth over ten successful years. Continue Reading
• Shomrei HaZmanim: A Nature-Based Jewish Teen Community Comes to Boulder County (8/10/2026) - Shomrei HaZmanim, a Jewish nature community for teens, is coming to Boulder County this fall, fostering connection, mentorship, and outdoor experiences for personal growth and belonging. Continue Reading
•  Love Is The Answer, But What’s The Question? (8/6/2026) - The destruction of the Second Temple stems from causeless hatred; love and peace serve as the cure, offering hope and consolation during grief. Continue Reading
• Baruch Dayan HaEmet – Sara Feigel (Lichtman) Gold z”l (8/6/2026) - Sara Feigel (Lichtman) Gold, mother of Yonatan Gold, passed away this morning, August 6, 2026, in Indiana. Continue Reading
• Aiden Louie Bar Yisrael (8/6/2026) - On Saturday, August 1st, 2026, Aiden Louie was called to the Torah as a Bar Yisrael with Adventure Judaism. Continue Reading
• Gavin Gelman Bar Mitzvah (8/6/2026) - On Saturday, August 1st, 2026, Gavin Gelman was called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah with Adventure Judaism. Continue Reading
• Free High Holy Day Materials for the Visually Impaired Now Available (7/30/2026) - JBI Library has expanded accessible High Holy Day resources, including new braille materials, aiming to support individuals with print disabilities. Continue Reading
• Miles Potash Bar Mitzvah (7/30/2026) - On Saturday, July 25th, 2026, Sam Olson was called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah with Adventure Judaism. Continue Reading
• Jew-Maxxing (7/28/2026) - Many of you may only know me as a wildly popular and hilarious Jewish humorist. What you may not know is that I am also the leading social influencer of the Jew Maxxing movement. Continue Reading

Arts and Culture

• Neustadt Jewish Arts Festival Brings Magic, Comedy, Film and Music to Denver (8/6/2026) - The Mizel Arts and Culture Center hosts the Neustadt JAAMM Festival in October, featuring diverse performances that celebrate contemporary Jewish life, including magic, comedy, and film. Continue Reading
• From October 7 to the Runway: U of Haifa Fashion Graduates Showcase Collections of Resilience (8/2/2026) - The Class of 2026 University of Haifa runway show presented 25 collections by Israeli fashion graduates, reflecting personal experiences and cultural heritage amid recent conflicts. Continue Reading
• Christopher Nolan Brings His Midas Touch to the World’s First Blockbuster (7/30/2026) - Christopher Nolan's adaptation of the Odyssey revitalizes the classic tale, emphasizing universal themes and modern moral dilemmas while captivating contemporary audiences. Continue Reading
• Graphic Content (7/30/2026) - Historian Rafael Medoff tells Judith Magazine why he refused his publisher's demand to denounce Israel in 'Cartoonists Against the Holocaust.' Continue Reading
• Unleash Your Creativity: Discover Adult Art Classes at the Boulder JCC (7/23/2026) - The Boulder JCC offers diverse adult art workshops this season, featuring evening and daytime sessions led by skilled instructors, designed for all experience levels to explore creativity. Continue Reading
• This Is How You Can Become A Great Storyteller (7/16/2026) - Boulder Valley Spellbinders® offers storytelling training for volunteers, enhancing literacy and community while providing enjoyable experiences telling stories. Continue Reading
• Celebrating American Jews Who Helped Forge Our Nation’s Complicated History (7/12/2026) - The Boulder JCC screens two films on July 28, exploring America's complex history, highlighting Jewish contributions and legacies, and celebrating freedoms gained. Continue Reading
• July Continues To Heat Up As TV Series “Bloody Murray” Launches Exclusively On ChaiFlicks (7/12/2026) - "Bloody Murray," a critically acclaimed Israeli romantic comedy series, won five awards at the Israeli Television Academy Awards and premieres on ChaiFlicks July 19. Continue Reading
• Lights, Camera, Culture! Why You Can’t Miss This Year’s Boulder Jewish Film Festival (7/9/2026) - The Boulder Jewish Film Festival returns from October 25 to November 1, showcasing influential films celebrating Jewish contributions to culture and society. Tickets available October 8. Continue Reading
• Celebrate America at 250 with Two Films Highlighting Jewish History (6/18/2026) - In celebration of America at 250, the Boulder JCC presents two films illuminating Jewish contributions to our new nation’s history on Tuesday, July 28 at the Dairy Arts Center’s Boedecker Theater. Join Boulder Jewish Film Festival founding director Kathryn Bernheimer and guests to view and discuss two festival favorites that shed light on unfamiliar chapters… Continue Reading
• Doorways to God’s Intentions (5/21/2026) - A new poem from Lisa Tremback. Continue Reading
• Sami Rohr Prize for Jewish Literature Announces Finalists for 2026 Nonfiction (5/14/2026) - The Sami Rohr Prize for Jewish Literature has announced the 2026 nonfiction finalists, highlighting authors' works that explore and illuminate the Jewish experience through personal and historical narratives. Continue Reading
• Comedian Noah Gardenswartz Headlines ‘Tight 5’ Comedy Showcase (4/9/2026) - The Mizel Arts and Culture Center hosts The Tight Five comedy showcase on April 30, featuring Noah Gardenswartz and emerging comedians. Continue Reading
• Boulder International Film Festival Announces 2026 Adventure Film Program (4/9/2026) - The Boulder International Film Festival's Adventure Film Program, from April 10-12, 2026, features 25 adventure films, filmmakers, and discussions celebrating outdoor culture. Continue Reading
• Jazz Legend Fred Hersch to Headline Closing Night of Denver Jazz Fest April 12 (4/7/2026) - Acclaimed jazz pianist Fred Hersch will headline closing night of the Denver Jazz Fest on April 12, showcasing his innovative artistry with his trio. Tickets range from $39–$59. Continue Reading

Events

• Broomfield Jewish Festival Returns Sunday with Live Music, Food, and Family Fun (8/13/2026) - The 3rd Annual Broomfield Jewish Festival this Sunday celebrates Jewish culture with music, food, and activities for all ages. Continue Reading
• Mountain States Delegation to Join Thousands This Fall for the Global Conference for Israel (8/10/2026) - The 2026 Global Conference for Israel will gather thousands, including the Mountain States delegation, focusing on Israel's future and community support. November 12-15 in San Diego. Continue Reading
• Men of the J Event Lineup for August (7/28/2026) - Upcoming events for August include discussion groups, breakfast, hikes and a brewery meet up. Continue Reading
• Accessible Activism For Seniors; Political Advocacy And Tikkun Olam (7/15/2026) - Seniors are encouraged to participate in accessible activism, leveraging their voting power and life experiences through discussions, community involvement, and civic engagement, particularly before upcoming elections. Continue Reading
• Join the Beth Ami Community for a Afternoon of Connection & Ice Cream! (7/12/2026) - Beth Ami will host an Ice Cream Social on August 15, featuring a Havdalah service, toppings sharing, and a nature walk. Continue Reading
• B’nai Butte Brings Acclaimed Actress Tovah Feldshuh to Crested Butte for Colorado Premiere of TOVAH (7/9/2026) - B’nai Butte will host Tovah Feldshuh for the Colorado premiere of her documentary, showcasing her career. The event includes dinner, a screening, and a Q&A on July 30, 2026. Continue Reading
• Give Blood, Give Life: Roll Up Your Sleeves at the Boulder JCC Blood Drive (7/2/2026) - Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs a blood transfusion. Donate at the Boulder JCC Blood Mobile on July 30 to impact lives and support your community. Continue Reading
• The Magical Thread of Anne Frank: An Evening with Gillian Perry (7/2/2026) - Join us on July 16 for a lecture by Gillian Perry exploring Anne Frank's legacy, her diary's publication struggle, and its impact on human rights and history. Continue Reading
• God Bless the Pill: Book Talk with Author Samira Mehta (7/2/2026) - The Boulder JCC hosts a discussion with Samira K. Mehta about her book "God Bless the Pill," revealing religious support for birth control's role in family planning and stability. Continue Reading
• Standing Together: JParent Community Coffee and Spaces for Connection (6/25/2026) - You are warmly invited to join us for an informal, drop-in Community Coffee on Friday June 26 and/or Tuesday June 30. Continue Reading
• Seven Stones Cemetery Tour (6/25/2026) - Discover Colorado's green burial cemetery emphasizing natural decomposition. Join a discussion with experts on Jewish perspectives on death, green burial, and future planning. Continue Reading
• July Men of the J Activities Just Released (6/25/2026) - Upcoming events for July include discussion groups, breakfast, hikes and a brewery meet up. Continue Reading
• Tools for Understanding Gender Identity: Dr. Susan Trout to Lead Supportive Community Lecture (6/17/2026) - An enlightening lecture on gender identity by Dr. Susan Trout will offer frameworks for understanding distinctions between gender identity and sexual orientation on June 22, at the Boulder JCC. Continue Reading
• Pull Up a Chair: A Special Shabbat Dinner for Boulder’s 50+ Community (6/7/2026) - There is something uniquely comforting about a Friday night. The rush of the week slows down, the candles are lit, and a sense of pause settles in. This June, the Boulder JCC is opening its doors to create that exact space for local adults aged 50 and better. On Friday, June 26, from 6 to… Continue Reading
• What to Expect at the 30th Annual Boulder Jewish Festival (6/4/2026) - Check out the full schedule of music, art and food available at the Festival this Sunday, along with children's activities and security measures. Continue Reading