Weekly Edition: April 25th, 2025

Shabbat Shalom! We are honored to partner with Boulder JCC to welcome renowned Israeli photojournalist Erez Kaganovitz, the visionary behind Humans of Israel, to Boulder for an incredible evening. He will take us on a journey through the personal stories behind his striking images, lead an interactive discussion, and explore the vibrancy of Israeli society, the energy of Tel Aviv, and the incredible resilience of the Israeli people in the wake of October 7th.

This is not just a lecture—it’s an opportunity to connect, share, and engage in an open discussion that brings the Israeli experience to life.

Engage in conversation over a festive dinner, where we’ll share a delicious meal, reflect together, and celebrate the hope, strength, and unity that define Israel today. Don’t miss this chance to witness, learn, and celebrate the human stories that shape Israel. 

Visit boulderjcc.org/humans for information and registration.

With hostilities ramping back up in Gaza, it is imperative that we continue to support the remaining hostages until they are all home. This will be the 75th consecutive weekly walk in support of the hostages this Sunday, April 27. Meet at Pearl and 8th Sunday at 1 pm.

Here is Morah Yehudis‘ take on this week’s Torah Portion.

Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with our brothers and sisters under attack in Israel, Ukraine, and the women of this country. Am Yisrael Chai!

Here are the stories from this week:

News/Columns/Letters

• Just Launched: Mitzvah Power Academy™—Jewish Edutainment for Kids (4/24/2025) - San Francisco, April 21, 2025 -- After nine months of development, Rabbi, Cantor Dr. Linda Bernstein (Rabbi Linda) proudly announced the launch of MITZVAH POWER ACADEMY, the new, menschy educational book series and website for young Jewish children, ages 5 to 10 years, and their families. MITZVAH POWER ACADEMY is a Jewish children’s “edutainment” series… Continue Reading
• Antisemitic Incidents Reach All-Time High in Colorado in 2024 (4/22/2025) - In 2024, Colorado recorded a staggering 279 antisemitic incidents, marking a 41% increase from the previous year, reflecting a disturbing national trend of rising antisemitism. Continue Reading
• Extra, Extra, Read All About It! The UN’s Arab Coalition Nominates “Palestine” for the United Nations General Assembly Presidency (4/22/2025) - The UN's actions, particularly regarding the Palestinian Authority's influence, indicate a troubling trend promoting antisemitism, undermining its original mission of global peace and justice. Continue Reading
• Column: Raving Over Fire That Threatened Jewish Governor? (4/22/2025) - A man attempted arson against Pennsylvania's governor after expressing grievances linked to Israel's actions in Gaza, reflecting rising antisemitism and political tensions. Continue Reading
• Letter: Hamas Tunnels Designed to Increase Civilian Casualties (4/22/2025) - The author argues that Hamas intentionally designed terror tunnels, complicating Israel's military response. They urge Hamas to surrender and advocate for reformed Palestinian education promoting coexistence with Israel. Continue Reading

Jewish Life

• A Taste of Shabbos – Parashat Shemini (4/22/2025) - This parasha discusses the deaths of Aaron’s sons and kosher laws' connection to the soul-body relationship, emphasizing the importance of spiritual grounding through mitzvot. Continue Reading
• Sydney Funk and Calvin Siegel Bet Mitzvah (4/22/2025) - On Saturday, April 26, 2025, Sydney Funk and Calvin Siegel will be called to the Torah as Bet Mitzvah at Congregation Har HaShem. Continue Reading

Arts and Culture

• North American Jewish Choral Festival is a One-of-a-Kind Musical Experience (4/24/2025) - Registration is now open for the North American Jewish Choral Festival 2025, offering a unique musical experience for all ages from July 20-24 in Stamford, Connecticut. Continue Reading

Events

• Celebrate Yom Ha’atzmaut with The Humans of Israel at the Boulder JCC (4/24/2025) - Boulder JCC will celebrate Yom Ha’atzmaut with a dinner and stories featuring photojournalist Erez Kaganovitz, showcasing diverse Israeli experiences. Join us May 1. Continue Reading
• Men of the J Announce May Line-up (4/24/2025) - It's hard to believe that next week is May 1! Here's your reminder to register for all of our wonderful Men of the J programs each month. Continue Reading
• This Sunday – 75th Run For Their Lives Walk in Boulder (4/22/2025) - Run4TheirLives Boulder will walk for the 75th consecutive week this Sunday in support of the hostages being held in Gaza. Please join us. Continue Reading