For Jewish Boulderites unaware of the lineup of local antizionist/semitic/Israel hate groups, last week’s grotesque “free Mohamed Sabry Solimon” Instagram post was a rude intro to Students For Justice in Palestine – Boulder (SJP-Bldr), one cell in the terror celebrating SJP network. But SJP has occupied a seat in Boulder City Council for nearly two years. 

On September 12, 2024, Boulder-Nablus Sister City Project’s board chair Essrea Cherin arranged a meeting including Council members Taishya Adams and Lauren Folkerts with Hatem Hafi, a visiting member of the UNRWA Askar Refugee Camp’s governing committee. The Askar camp is a non-City Council approved recipient of BNSCP fundraising largesse ostensibly used for medical equipment and facilities. The wide ranging meeting notes sent by Adams from her Council email account to Cherin and Folkerts on September 13 include –

• “Taiysha recommended an informal gathering of the people we know from the City of Boulder / Boulder County that are interested in aligning and supporting the Palestinian cause for life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Taiysha next offered to host something at her home next weekend.”
• “CU Student Led Palestine Cultural Event …. Essrea/Debra will connect Taishya and Lauren to the students organizing the event. Taishya will follow up with Lori Call, our CU Boulder government affairs liaison, if needed to assist in planning or address any barriers the students encounter. Taiysha and Lauren will take the lead from the students regarding how we may best support the effort.”

Cherin replied to Adams later that day making clear who were the student event organizers – 

• “I will connect you with the two women I have been in touch with who are active in Students for Justice in Palestine in a follow up email”

– and then emailed Adams and sjp@colorado.edu – “Subject: connecting you with City Councilperson Adams”: 

• “Hi Arum, Danyah and Taishya, I wanted to connect you with each other. Taishya – Arum and Danyah are with SJP. And Arum and Danyah, Taishya is on City Council and wants to ensure that CU students are free to organize whatever events, rallies, marches, protests etc. you are moved and inspired to do without administrative barriers. We are all aware that many SJP students across the country have been attacked and intimidated by authoritarian university administrations and want to make sure that does not occur on CUs campus.”

That evening Adams reached out to Cherin and SJP –

• “Thank you for the connection! I am very excited to meet virtually. Please let me know when you are available to meet up for a walk and talk on the trail, creek, tea shop, etc. Together we thrive, Taishya. … Councilmember, Boulder City Council.”

On September 23, Adams again affirmatively reached out to SJP and Cherin – 

•  “Good afternoon, Circling back to this email as I don’t want to miss anything. Arum and Danyah, please feel free to add time on my virtual calendar at https// …. to connect with each other.”  

Publicly available documents don’t reveal what transpired from there. But Adams did at least meet SJP ideologically. Since October 7, she has reposted more than 800 propaganda pieces, most including misinformation, disinformation, and half truths about Israel, Jews, and the war in Gaza, and has enabled BNSCP to do the same with impunity. Most famously, soon after the murderous, community traumatizing June 1 2025 attack, Adams would not join the City Council’s otherwise unanimous public statement that named Mohamed Sabry Solimon’s attack on openly identified Jews as antisemitic. Boulder District Court Judge Nancy Woodruff didn’t suffer from such lack of moral clarity on May 7, 2026.  She sentenced Solimon to life in prison without parole, plus 2,128 years. 

Adams will be joined by Mayor Aaron Brockett at the Boulder Bookstore this Friday, June 12 at 2:00 p.m. for a program about “what are the driving issues facing Boulder.” With Adams pushing ‘values aligned investment’ – code for divest from Israel and its defense suppliers – and KGNU ‘radio-free-Palestine’ as the moderator, the event is primed for regurgitation of the now normalized litany of libels against Israel. It is not stated if there will be any unfiltered audience Q&A time.

The Staenberg-Loup Jewish Community Center has been awarded a $25,000 grant from the Boettcher Foundation to strengthen security across its campus. The funding will help the JCC Denver advance its ongoing efforts to combat antisemitism and protect the more than 100,000 community members who walk through its doors each year. This marks the Boettcher Foundation’s first grant to the JCC Denver in 11 years, highlighting the significance of this investment and affirming the JCC Denver’s role as the heart of Denver’s Jewish community.

Established in 1937, the Boettcher Foundation has played an instrumental role in Colorado philanthropy for nearly 90 years. With a deeply rooted belief in the promise of Colorado and the potential of Coloradans, the foundation supports projects that connect communities, address statewide challenges, and nurture civic, educational, and rural leaders. Foundation investments encompass organizations, infrastructure, and individuals while promoting community building and tackling critical issues. The Boettcher family valued hard work, championed excellence, and sought ways to support the people and communities around them. Today, the Boettcher Foundation continues to be guided by the family’s values and legacy.

The Staenberg-Loup Jewish Community Center (JCC Denver) serves the metro-Denver area through educational, social, cultural, fitness, sports, and other programs that are rooted in Jewish tradition and values. The JCC Denver’s mission is to create a vibrant and inclusive family and social gathering place that is guided by these timeless Jewish values. The JCC Denver offers a wide range of programs and options for people of all ages and stages of life. 

Leslie Frisbie, 80-year-old widow and long-time member of Boulder’s Jewish community and Congregation Har HaShem, recently went public about being targeted by scammers who ended up stealing over $200,000, her life savings. You can read more about the story here at KDVR-TV’s website.

Family members have started a GoFundMe page here to help her out. Please share this cautionary tale with older (and younger) family members who live on their own to possibly prevent others from losing their hard-earned savings.

The contempt that some Israel-bashers hold for America’s laws never ceases to surprise…until now. Their accomplices in Boulder eclipsed them all on June 1, the first anniversary of Karen Diamond’s murder in a firebombing on Pearl Street.

They are demanding the release of her convicted killer, Mohamed Soliman, who was sentenced to life plus 2,178 years in prison last month after pleading guilty to 101 charges in the attack. He injured 13 others.

Soliman drove 100 miles from Colorado Springs to Pearl Street where he originally planned the attack as a mass shooting, but he ended up throwing multiple Molotov cocktails at the Boulder chapter members of Run for Their Lives, according to The Boulder Daily Camera. The chapter hosted weekly walks to march in solidarity with Israeli hostages each week before they were released. An affidavit states that he regarded the weekly walks as a chance to avenge his belief that they did not care about Arab hostages and supported Arab deaths.

Writing on a page on its website on the incident’s first anniversary, Boulder Students for Justice in Palestine said it honors the “man who sacrificed his comfort and his proximity to empire, willingly expending his own liberty in attaining his objective. The state would have us believe that Mohamed took the action he did because he is insane – a fanatic, a terrorist, guilty of a hate crime – but we know the truth and we reject the state’s inversion of it. Mohamed chose the only sane response available to a rational human being confronted with the normalization of genocide.”

Genocide, as in slaughtering 1,200 Israelis in southern Israel? Holding 250 hostages who are tortured and sexually abused? Some Israelis died in captivity.

Even if Israel went too far in carrying out retaliation in Gaza, what did that have to do with the Run for Their Lives participants? All the 82-year-old Ms. Diamond and her partners did was seek the release of their fellow Jews. To sound a tad naïve, what is wrong with that?

By the standards of Israel-bashers, Jews in America and elsewhere should firebomb pro-Arab activists whenever they demonstrate against Israel.

Most supporters of Israel do not resort to violence for a reason that eludes those who defame Israel. Violence is illegal. Most of us, with occasional exceptions, respect our nation’s laws and conduct ourselves in a dignified matter when confronting anti-Israel activists.

Not only do some pro-Arab activists employ violence, but their allies support what they do – to the point that they will demand Soliman’s release.

It is curious that those who clamor for Soliman’s release do not join him in these pursuits. After all, Soliman “chose the only sane response available.”

Have you guessed it yet? They are cowards. They are not going to disrupt their lives by harming their presumed enemies, even if they believe in it.

The University of Colorado Boulder ceased to recognize Students for Justice in Palestine in 2024 because of policy violations.

Soliman’s comrades in Swarthmore, Pa., which is in my backyard, echoed his spirit this week when they issued a public plea to Delaware County prosecutors to drop trespassing charges when they set up an illegal encampment in May 2025 at Swarthmore College, which has no connection with seven of the nine defendants, according to The Philadelphia Inquirer. They demanded that the college eliminate its IT support contract with Cisco, which also contracts with the Israeli government.

The suspects erected their enclosure using campus property and had vandalized other parts of campus with incendiary graffiti, college president previously wrote. “I urge these protesters to pursue a less divisive approach to expressing their views – one that aligns with not just the college’s policies, but with the mutual respect, compassion and care that all in our community deserve.”

It is curious how Israel-bashers identify the Black community’s needs with the Palestinians’ struggles, yet they refuse to emulate the commitment of civil rights activists who willingly went to prison when protesting unjust laws. The anti-Israel activists balk at going to jail for violating laws that are quite just.

Shabbat shalom, and welcome to new Boulder Jewish News subscribers from last week’s Boulder Jewish Festival!

In September, we began a new column with Rabbi Charna Rosenholtz, a 12-part column exploring the spiritual and psychological wisdom of each Hebrew month. Drawing from Torah, Kabbalah, Mussar, and seasonal awareness, each installment highlights core themes, practices, and reflections to help ground us in sacred time. Join us on this monthly journey through the Jewish calendar. We have now reached the 8th month, Sivan, so be sure to check out this latest entry. Links to her earlier columns are included.

Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with our brothers and sisters under attack in London, West Bloomfield, Australia, the UK, Israel, Ukraine, and in Boulder. Am Yisrael Chai!

Here are the stories from this week.

News/Columns/Letters

• Examining Boulder City Council’s Ties to SJP and Palestinian Advocacy (6/11/2026) - Bruce Shaffer discusses Boulder’s local politics involving anti-Israel sentiments, highlighting connections between City Council members and pro-Palestinian groups, notably Students For Justice in Palestine. Continue Reading
• JCC Denver Receives $25,000 Security Grant from Boettcher Foundation (6/11/2026) - The Staenberg-Loup Jewish Community Center has been awarded a $25,000 grant from the Boettcher Foundation to strengthen security across its campus. The funding will help the JCC Denver advance its ongoing efforts to combat antisemitism and protect the more than 100,000 community members who walk through its doors each year. This marks the Boettcher Foundation's… Continue Reading
• How You Can Help 80-Year-Old Jewish Community Member Who Got Scammed (6/11/2026) - Leslie Frisbie, 80-year-old widow and long-time member of Boulder's Jewish community and Congregation Har HaShem, recently went public about being targeted by scammers who ended up stealing over $200,000, her life savings. Continue Reading
• Column: Boulder’s Pearl Street Killer: ‘A Rational Human Being?’ (6/11/2026) - The contempt that some Israel-bashers hold for America’s laws never ceases to surprise…until now. Continue Reading
• A Resilient Triumph: Thousands Gather for the Historic 30th Annual Boulder Jewish Festival (6/9/2026) - The 30th Annual Boulder Jewish Festival on June 7 united thousands in celebration, honoring community strength with reflections and joy, showcasing Jewish culture, art, and resilience. Continue Reading
• Letter: Response to Senator Hollen’s Half Truths About the Palestinians (6/9/2026) - Bruce Ticker is correct about Sen. Hollen. The true 'Palestinian cause' isn't a quest for a Palestinian state; it's an attempt to destroy the world's only Jewish state. Continue Reading
• 30th Boulder Jewish Festival Combines Community, Culture and Memory (6/7/2026) - Boulder's Jewish Community gathered for the 30th time on Sunday, June 7 to celebrate, remember, and share with the broader public downtown on the Pearl St. Mall. Continue Reading

Jewish Life

• Asher Gordon Bet Mitzvah (6/9/2026) - On Saturday, June 6th, 2026, Asher Gordon was called to the Torah as Bet Mitzvah at Congregation Har HaShem. Continue Reading
• Baruch Dayan HaEmet – Yale Harvard Pincus z”l (6/9/2026) - Yale Harvard Pincus, step-father of Shauna Sadow, passed away peacefully on June 4th, 2026 surrounded by his loving children, just six days before his 92nd birthday. Continue Reading

Arts and Culture

Events

The Pearl Street Mall was transformed into a sea of energy, connection, and profound community spirit on Sunday, June 7, as thousands of attendees gathered to celebrate the 30th Annual Boulder Jewish Festival. The milestone event successfully bridged a morning of deep reflection with an afternoon of joy. Presented by the Boulder JCC, this year’s festival carried an undeniable weight and beauty, proving to be one of the most memorable and highly attended gatherings in the event’s three-decade history.

The festival opened at 11 am with a solemn and deeply moving commemoration on the Courthouse Lawn. Marking the one-year anniversary of the terrorist attack on the Boulder Run For Their Lives walk for the hostages, community leaders and elected officials took to the stage to honor the victims and speak to the enduring strength of the Boulder community. This period of remembrance featured powerful messages of comfort, resilience, and solidarity from an esteemed panel of public servants, spiritual leaders, and community pillars. The crowd listened intently to remarks from Congressman Joe Neguse, Boulder County District Attorney Michael Dougherty, and Boulder JCC Executive Director Jonathan Lev. They were joined by a dedicated group of community voices and clergy, including Rabbi Marc Soloway, Rabbi Fred Greene, Rabbi Charna Rosenholtz, Michelle Goldman, Ed Victor, and Susan Rona. Following these moving reflections, the festival beautifully transitioned into its main objective: a vibrant, proud, and joyful celebration of Jewish life, music, art, and culture.

An event of this magnitude, bringing together thousands of residents, visitors, and families, is only possible through the immense dedication of a collective village. The Boulder JCC and the festival organizing committee extend their deepest, most heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped make the 30th annual festival a safe and spectacular success. We owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to the Boulder Police Department and our local law enforcement partners. Their proactive, comprehensive, and compassionate security presence ensured that every family and attendee could celebrate with absolute peace of mind, and we thank them for their unwavering dedication to protecting our community. We also share our immense appreciation for our incredible performers, Lapidus & Myles, Rick Recht, Boulder Israeli Dance, and the Gora Gora Orkestar, who filled the Pearl Street Mall with soul, energy, and music that kept the crowd dancing all afternoon. Our artisans and food vendors deserve immense praise for sharing their remarkable talents, beautiful crafts, and delicious flavors, giving attendees a true taste of the richness of Jewish heritage through everything from traditional babka to world-class fine art.

Finally, a vital thank you goes out to our generous sponsors and fellow community organizations whose funding, resources, and collaborative spirit form the backbone of this festival.

Most of all, we thank the thousands of community members who showed up on Sunday. Thank you for bringing your warmth, your smiles, your appetites, and your dancing shoes. In a time when gathering together matters more than ever, you showed up proudly and celebrated joyfully. As the tents are packed away and the music fades, the spirit of the 30th Annual Boulder Jewish Festival remains. This historic turnout stands as a testament to the fact that Boulder’s Jewish community and the broader community that supports it are vibrant, unified, and deeply rooted in joy. Thank you for 30 incredible years, Boulder, and we look forward to gathering on the bricks with you again next year.

THANK YOU TO OUR 2026 SPONSORS

INNOVATOR
HCCI Professional Protective Services
MERIDIAN® RAPID DEFENSE GROUP

GROUNDBREAKERS
Boulder Jewish News
Create Boulder
TravelBoulder.com and TravelDenver.com
Visit Boulder, The Convention and Visitors Bureau

ADVOCATE
Boulder Jewish Community Foundation

EVENT
Jewish National Fund
Magnolia Road Cannabis Co.

FRIENDS OF THE FESTIVAL
Laurie and Howard Bernstein

STRATEGIC COMMUNITY PARTNERS
Boulder Arts Commission, an agency of the Boulder City Council
Colorado Creative Industries
Eldorado Spring Water
Rose Community Foundation
SCFD

Dear editor:

Bruce Ticker is correct about Sen. Hollen. (“Column: The Alternate ‘Palestinian’ Half-Truth That Sen. Van Hollen Needs to Face” Boulder Jewish News 6/4/2026) The true ‘Palestinian cause’ isn’t a quest for a Palestinian state; it’s an attempt to destroy the world’s only Jewish state. Unfortunately, Mr. Ticker supports his argument with the mention of only one proposal made by Israel and rejected by Palestinians. The truth is that Arab leaders have a long history of rejecting Israel’s right to exist as a Jewish state and Palestinian leaders have adopted this rejectionism.

A paper from the Begin-Sadat Center for Strategic Studies details opposition to Israel’s existence as a Jewish state from the days of Mufti Hajj Amin Husseini (early 1920’s to the late 1940’s) through Mahmoud Abbas’ rejection of Donald Trump’s Deal of the Century. 

More recently, we have seen the failure of the Oslo Accords. Rather than leading to the emergence of a Palestinian state co-existing, peacefully, with the nation-state of the Jews, people living under the  administration of the Palestinian Authority are incited to attack and kill Jews, being honored and rewarded when they answer the call. And Hamas chose to spend $1,000,000,000 to build an extensive network of terror tunnels instead of developing Gaza’s economy. Having deliberately endangered 

the people in Gaza, Hamas proceeded to attack Israel and label Israel’s response to Hamas’ attack “genocide.”

There is one point on which I do not agree with Bruce Ticker. He is angry with Israeli leaders who do not support the establishment of a Palestinian state. Given the danger such a state would pose to Israel’s Arab citizens, as well as to Israel’s Jewish citizens, I have to support Israelis who oppose the creation of a terror state on Israel’s border.

Toby F. Block
Atlanta, GA

On Saturday, June 6th, 2026 (21 Sivan, 5786), Asher Gordon, child of Rachel & Adam Gordon, was called to the Torah as Bet Mitzvah at Congregation Har HaShem. Asher read from Parashat Beha’alotcha.

Boulder Jewish News encourages Bar and Bat Mitzvah students to submit their d’var torah and information about their Mitzvah/Tikkun Olam projects.  For more information, please email editor@boulderjewishnews.org.

Yale Harvard Pincus passed away peacefully on June 4th, 2026 surrounded by his loving children, just six days before his 92nd birthday.

Yale was predeceased by his beloved wife, Beverly Pincus (z”l), who left us just ten months ago, and his stepson, Gary Rosenberg (z”l).

His memory lives on through his children, Gail Bromberg (David) and Aaron Pincus (Kim); his stepchildren, Elyse Shuster (Adam) and Shauna Sadow (Phil); and his grandchildren, Hayden, Noah, Kenny, Jacob, Mason, Isaac, and Josh.

The family will observe a private shiva on Tuesday. A Celebration of Life will take place this July in California.

May his memory be for a blessing.

If you wish to honor his memory, donations can be made to the Congregation Bonai Shalom Building Fund.

With blessings of comfort,
Rabbi Marc

Boulder’s Jewish Community gathered for the 30th time on Sunday, June 7 to celebrate, remember, and share with the broader public downtown on the Pearl St. Mall. The event began with a commemoration of last year’s firebomb attack, which injured over 20 people and took the life of Karen Diamond z”l. Speaking about the attack and its aftermath were victims, witnesses and community leaders, including Congressman Joe Neguse and District Attorney Michael Dougherty.

Rabbi Marc Soloway of Congregation Bonai Shalom had this to say about Karen:

“Next Sunday, the 14th of June, will be the first anniversary of her passing on the Hebrew calendar. And all of the organizers of this festival felt we can’t start the celebration — and it really is a celebration of Jewish life in Boulder — without acknowledging the incredibly painful loss of a beautiful soul, Karen Diamond, who, in her dying days, expressed to her family that the only way to respond to such hate and darkness is with love and light. And that’s the message that she left for us, and with us.” 

During the commemoration ceremony, members of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church of Boulder marched down the mall in solidarity with and support of Boulder’s Jewish community.

After the ceremonies concluded with prayers and songs, the opening act, Lapidus and Myles, took the stage and the Festival reverted to its normal purpose: celebration of community. The main stage also hosted well-known singer-songwriter Rick Recht, Israeli dancing, and Gora Gora Orkestar to close out the entertainment.

To say that there was a security presence would be an understatement — and a sadly necessary one at that. While not quite as strong as last year’s festival — which took place just one week after the firebomb attack — it was very visible and very much appreciated by the attendees. In spite of, or perhaps because of, the potential threat of antisemitic incidents, there were 31 organizations with booths, in addition to 12 artist booths and a dozen food vendors.

The Festival ran somewhat shortened hours – 11 am to 3 pm – due to security coordination with the City of Boulder, but everyone we spoke to were very satisfied with the event and the turnout on what turned out to be a very warm first Sunday in June. Thanks to the Boulder JCC and their team of Festival volunteers for making the event another memorable Festival.

Be sure to check out all our photos in our album here.

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 8 pm, you are invited to a catered Shabbat dinner designed entirely around connection, warmth, and great conversation.

If you’ve ever felt like it’s getting harder to find your people as time goes on, you aren’t alone. Whether you are a lifelong Boulderite, a recent transplant trying to navigate a new city, or someone looking to expand your social circle, this evening is for you. There are no expectations, no tests of prior knowledge, and no specific level of religious observance required. The goal is simple: to show up, share a delicious meal, and enjoy the company of others in a welcoming environment.

Whether you’re new to town or simply looking to expand your circle, you belong at the table. Come for the food, stay for the laughs, and leave with a few new phone numbers. The evening begins at 6 pm at the Boulder JCC, and the $40 fee covers the full cost of the catered dinner. Space is limited, so please secure your spot by registering in advance on the Boulder JCC website.

Celebrate 30 Years of Culture, Community, and Connection! The Boulder Jewish Festival is back on Pearl Street Mall for a landmark celebration of Jewish life in Boulder. From soulful melodies and vibrant art to the best local flavors, there’s something for everyone at this milestone event. Join us for the 30th Boulder Jewish Festival on Sunday, June 7, from 11 am to 3 pm at the Pearl Street Mall; admission is free!

This year, the Boulder Jewish Festival offers an exciting interactive activity for the whole family!

Community Art Activities: 

Join the Be Like Ellie Foundation and spread kindness through art. “Simple acts of kindness create positive change.” After Ellie tragically passed away at age six, her family founded the Be Like Ellie Foundation to continue her gift of making the world a better place. Through year-round events and community giving activities, the foundation inspires others to transform the world through simple, everyday acts of kindness.

Join Beautifully Jewish in a community knitting activity, creating items to be displayed at local Sukkot celebrations like hand-painted and written wooden hearts (wooden hearts), knitting Jewish stars (free pattern), and stringing pom poms.

Israeli Dance
Israeli Dancing is vibrant and is danced in cities large and small, literally all over the world. It blends traditional Jewish styles with many other ethnic influences – notably Yemenite, Eastern European, Balkan, Greek, and others. It is alive, as dozens of new dances are choreographed every year, and taught at a variety of Israeli dance camps and dance sessions. Come join us, and see what you’re missing! Presented by Boulder Israeli Dance!

Circus
Spoon Circus spreads the joy of circus arts to all, creating playful, inclusive spaces where creativity thrives, confidence grows, and communities connect. 
Fairy Hair
Fairy Shimmer’s mission, in addition to providing quality fairy hair services, is to invite our clients to wander, discover, and support our local community stores. 

Face Painting
Bring your event to life with high-quality face painting that blends artistry, imagination, and fun with Where the Wild Things Art. From beautiful butterflies to fierce superheroes, each design is thoughtfully created to make every guest feel special. I strive to make each celebration a memorable experience.

Our Commitment
In the spirit of Tikkun Olam (Repairing the World), the Boulder Jewish Festival is a Zero-Waste Event. We are proud to partner with local sustainability leaders to keep our celebration green

Bring the whole family for an afternoon of joy in the heart of Boulder!

Three Decades of Culture and Joy: Community, Music, Art and Food Await

On Sunday, June 7, the heart of downtown Boulder will light up with the vibrant sounds, flavors, and artistry of the 30th Annual Boulder Jewish Festival. Taking place from 11 am to 3 pm at the iconic Pearl Street Mall, this free, family-friendly event invites the entire community to celebrate three decades of Jewish culture and connection. This year’s festival is anchored in a theme of remembrance, resilience, community, and joy. From profound musical collaborations to a bustling marketplace and delicious culinary offerings, the festival promises a memorable afternoon for all generations.

A Meaningful Start: Reflection and Resilience

The 2026 festival begins with a poignant moment of community solidarity. Opening remarks at 11 am will include a commemoration marking the one-year anniversary of the terrorist attack on the Boulder Run For Their Lives humanitarian walk for the hostages. This period of reflection underscores the resilience of the Boulder community. Following the commemoration, the festival will intentionally shift its focus at 11:30 am toward the vibrant celebration and joy that defines Jewish life.

Soulful Sounds and High-Energy Rhythms: The Main Stage

Music is the heartbeat of the Boulder Jewish Festival, and the 2026 lineup brings an eclectic mix of local and national talent to the Pearl Street Mall:

• Lapidus & Myles (11:45 am – 12:30 pm): This powerful collaboration features Rabbi Micah Lapidus (Composer-in-Residence at The Temple in Atlanta) and Melvin Kindall Myles (a stunning vocalist who has performed at Carnegie Hall and sings at Atlanta’s Historic Ebenezer Baptist Church—the former pulpit of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.). Together, they merge sacred traditions, soulful artistry, and justice-centered storytelling, celebrating the historical and enduring ties between Black and Jewish communities.
• Rick Recht (12:50 pm – 1:45 pm): One of the most influential and celebrated Jewish artists of our time, Recht is a national celebrity spokesman for PJ Library and the founder of Jewish Rock Radio. Known for rocking Jewish communities coast to coast, his performance is sure to elevate the afternoon with interactive, high-energy song leading.
• Boulder Israeli Dance (2:00 pm – 2:20 pm): Attendees can watch or join in on a vibrant showcase of Israeli dancing. This lively tradition blends Middle Eastern, Yemenite, Eastern European, and Balkan influences into modern, celebratory choreography.
• Gora Gora Orkestar (2:20 pm – 3:00 pm): Closing out the festival is this high-energy, 11-piece brass band. Gora Gora Orkestar brings the authentic sounds of the Old World to the Rocky Mountains, blending Balkan rhythms and Klezmer music designed to get the entire crowd dancing in the street.

A Curated Marketplace: Fine Art & Heritage Crafts

Art lovers can stroll through an incredible open-air marketplace showcasing the creativity of local makers. Highlights of the artisan lineup include:

• Ritual Objects & Judaica: Discover unique wedding smash glass packages from BGOLD Glass LLC, custom-embroidered pieces by Emily Cohen Designs, modern text-and-nature watercolors from Aqua Studio, and meaningful Jewish ritual objects designed by Green Judaica.
• Textiles, Leather, & Apparel: Browse “illustrations in thread” from Leo’s Dry Goods (whose work is featured in the Jewish Museum of New York), plant-dyed slow fashion from ORA, unique hand-woven works by SGW Textile Art, and vintage jewelry-adorned leather goods by Tmiro Designs.
• Earth-Based Crafts & Goods: Meet local makers like Lynette Errante Ceramics (using seasonal foliage and wildflowers), clinical herbalist Mitten Lowe of Journey to Wellness, and Beit Dvash Community Beekeeping, selling raw honey and beeswax candles.

Families can also participate in interactive community art activities. The Be Like Ellie Foundation will host a kindness-driven art project, while Beautifully Jewish invites attendees to a community knitting activity to craft hand-painted wooden hearts and knit Jewish stars for upcoming Sukkot celebrations.

Savor the Flavors: Food Truck Delights

No festival is complete without exceptional food, and this year’s vendor lineup bridges comforting Eastern European staples with modern Colorado flair. Visitors can enjoy:

• Traditional & Kosher Eats: Sink your teeth into classic New York-style bagels and deli favorites from Fleishman’s Bagels and Delicatessen, taste incredible kosher hot dogs provided by the Boulder Center for Judaism, or grab Mediterranean-inspired street food from Boychik Kitchen.
• Sweet Treats & Baked Goods: Pick up fresh babka and challah from Talia’s Bakery or Dino Mama’s Kitchen, sample authentic Israeli halvah from Har Matok Halvah, or enjoy certified kosher oat challah and nutrient-dense artisan breads from Hävenly Baked Goods. For dessert, HipPOPs will serve customizable, handcrafted gelato and sorbet bars (kosher certified with plenty of vegan and gluten-free choices).
• Comfort & Cafe Classics: Enjoy Central European street food from Bohemian Wurst (born out of Boulder’s Bohemian Biergarten) or Colorado comfort cuisine from East & Co. Plus, Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee of SE Boulder will be on-site serving specialty lattes, cold brews, and nitro energy drinks, while Bridge House’s Community Table Kitchen provides high-quality catering that supports paid job training for adults experiencing homelessness.

Fun for the Entire Family

Kids and the young at heart will find plenty of entertainment throughout the day. Look out for the whimsical performers of Spoon Circus spreading joy through circus arts, face painting from Where the Wild Things Art, and shimmering hair extensions courtesy of The Fairy Shimmers.

Prioritizing Safety and Security

To ensure that the 30th annual milestone is a safe, welcoming, and joyful experience for everyone, organizers are prioritizing a comprehensive security plan. Developed in direct partnership with the Boulder Police Department (BPD), the event will feature a robust, proactive security presence on June 7.

The strategy relies on an “all hands on deck” approach from the BPD, featuring increased patrols, K9 units, and aerial, rooftop, and undercover monitoring. Organizers are also coordinating year-round with national experts, including the Secure Community Network (SCN), supported by JEWISHcolorado, as well as federal agencies such as the FBI.

These extensive safety precautions are entirely preventative and not in response to any specific threat. Festival-goers are invited to be active partners in safety: if you see something out of place, simply report it to a nearby staff member or police officer.

Join us for the 30th annual Boulder Jewish Festival on Sunday, June 7, 2026, from 11 am – 3 pm on the Pearl Street Mall (Courthouse Lawn). Admission is free. Pack a blanket, bring your appetite, and prepare for an afternoon of art, music, and vibrant community connection!

Rabbi Pesach and I passionately appeal to you to support and attend our Grand Benefit Auction on Sunday, June 14 at 3 pm.

We have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support for this event… the dedicated and influential leadership committee… the valuable auction items which have poured in from all quarters… and all who have donated to attend, including some who won’t be in town but wish to support our community.

Every day in every way Boulder Center for Judaism provides essential services strengthening the spiritual fabric of Boulder and supporting its Jewish citizenry. As our programming and impact grows so does our expenses and so we designed this season closing celebration as a fun way to rally support.

In addition to all our amazing items for auction we are excited to announce our Grand Prize which will be a weekend getaway to Palm Beach with a luxurious stay at the famous Colony Hotel, dinner at Malka West Palm Beach by Eyal Shani, and an inspiring Shabbat as an honoured guest of Palm Beach Synagogue, the revolutionary community founded by Rabbi Pesach’s younger brother Rabbi Moshe Scheiner.

SO JOIN US ON JUNE 14! AND BRING MANY FRIENDS!

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There will be flowing open bars, delicious light food + sushi, upbeat music, a huge turnout, all having a blast winning big and supporting a cause we hold dear.

With deep gratitude, Rabbi Pesach & Chany

American Friends of Bar-Ilan University (AFBIU) is thrilled to welcome Boaz Meir as our new VP of Principal Gifts. Boaz brings a wealth of heart, experience, and dedication to this newly created role. Based in Denver, he joins the AFBIU senior team during an incredibly exciting chapter for Bar-Ilan University.

Bar-Ilan has officially grown into Israel’s second-largest research university and its fastest-growing major research institution. According to the Israeli Central Bureau of Statistics, student enrollment has surged by 30% over the last eight years. Nearly half of that growth is in advanced graduate and doctoral programs. Even as it grows as a powerhouse for science and innovation, Bar-Ilan remains deeply rooted in its heritage. It is the only university in Israel that requires Jewish studies for all students, ensuring that leadership and cutting-edge research go hand-in-hand with Jewish values and identity.

“I could not be more excited to join the team supporting Israel’s second-largest university,” Boaz said. “Bar-Ilan is a truly unique place. It doesn’t just drive academic excellence and power the ‘Start-Up Nation’ through groundbreaking research—it also serves as a moral and cultural anchor. By blending deep Jewish heritage with cutting-edge science, Bar-Ilan ensures Israel remains a ‘light unto the nations.’ I look forward to partnering with visionary philanthropists to fuel this critical mission and support the future of Israel.”

Boaz brings years of community building and leadership to AFBIU. He previously served as Chief Development Officer at Brothers for Life and held major leadership roles at Jewish National Fund-USA, including National Campaign Director of Muss High School and Executive Director of the Mountain States and Pacific Northwest Regions. His deep roots in the community also include impactful work with JEWISHcolorado and The Jewish Agency for Israel.

“Boaz brings a rare combination of strategic vision, deep relationship-building skills, and a proven track record of engaging philanthropists around meaningful causes,” said Jessica Feldan, CEO of AFBIU. “As Bar-Ilan University continues its remarkable growth and leadership in research, innovation, and Jewish values, Boaz’s experience and passion will be invaluable for AFBIU in expanding our philanthropic reach and advancing the university’s mission.”

For more information about AFBIU and to learn how to get involved, please feel free to contact Boaz at boaz.meir@afbiu.org.