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Pardes Levavot

Pardes Levavot, “Orchard of Hearts,” was formed in the spirit of creating conscious holy community. Our name expresses the spiritual blossoming of each individual heart within an inspiring and nurturing orchard.

For information on our congregation please call (303) 563-2110 and leave a message or send email to info@pardeslevavot.org. To join our congregation, please print a copy of our membership form, fill it out, and send it to our Synagogue.


Pardes Levavot gratefully acknowledges Allied Jewish Federation of Colorado for their support of our Circle of Family Education program. Thank you!

Boulder JCC

December Events and Classes


Community-Wide Chanukah Concert

With Steve Brodsky and Friends!

Sunday, Decemer 17, 2006

East Boulder Community Center

5660 Sioux Drive, Boulder

FREE!

4:00 p.m. – Chanukiah Lighting

4:30 p.m. – Concert

Come early and swim*

(Additional admission)


Sponsors:

Allied Jewish Federation

Weaver Family Foundation

Boulder JCC

Congregation Aish Kodesh

Congregation Bonai Shalom

Congregation Har HaShem

Congregation Nevei Kodesh

Pardes Levavot: A Jewish Renewal Congregation

Starwood Consulting

Colorado Agency for Jewish Education

Jewish Family Service

Stepping Stones

Boulder Jewish Community Foundation



HASIFRIA

Celebrating Jewish Books!

Grand Reopening Reception!

Sunday, December 3, 6-7 p.m.

At the Boulder JCC New North Wing!

Come celebrate our wonderful new location and meet author Laurel Snyder prior to her talk at the Boulder JCC Jewish Book Fair! Food, music, and a great new space!


Authors!

Laurel Snyder

Author of Half/Life: Jew-ish Tales from Interfaith Homes

Sunday, December 3, 7 p.m.

At the Boulder JCC

What does it mean to be half Jewish? Is it an inferior state or, as Snyder argues, an interesting, incorrigible, perplexing and profound moniker in its own right, a label that somehow captures the existential angst that all people experience. Publishers Weekly calls this book “engaging, funny and provocative. Half-Jews will see themselves and their families in this book, and they will laugh, and maybe even cry, while reading.” Cost: $5 for admission and includes a coupon worth $5 off on a purchase of $36 or more from the book sale. Come early and meet Laurel Snyder at our Grand Reopening reception. Contact Froma@boulderjcc.org or call (303) 998-1900, ext. 5.


Niles Goldstein

Author of Gonzo Judaism: A Bold Path for Renewing an Ancient Faith

Thursday, December 7, 5:30 p.m.

At the City Club, 885 Arapahoe Avenue, Boulder

Cost: $10 for book signing, talk and reception; $25 for book signing, talk, reception and copy of Gonzo Judaism

Co-sponsored by Congregation Har HaShem and Menorah


Embracing the spirit of Hunter S. Thompson, Goldstein challenges us to reclaim our rebel roots, even if the consequences are disquieting to the leaders of the complacent Jewish establishment. He urges us to take risks to revitalize contemporary Judaism - but also to respect our roots in order to move ahead. "Judaism, when presented in its best and most authentic light, doesn't coddle—it confronts," he tells us. Using a combination of Jewish history and personal anecdotes, Goldstein offers a wide range of alternative ways to explore Judaism. Publishers Weekly calls this book “edgy, funny… (and)…wise.” A Publishers Weekly starred review.


Contact: Froma@boulderjcc.org or call (303) 998-1900, ext. 5.



Boulder JCC Book Fair December 2-10


For one week, the Boulder JCC is one of the largest Jewish bookstores in the West!

Hundreds of books for children from pre-schoolers to high schoolers! All the new Jewish adult best-sellers and more!

Buy your Hanukkah books here!


Hours:

Sat. Dec. 2 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Sun. Dec. 3 9:00 a.m. -9:00 p.m.

Mon. Dec. 4 4:30-9:30 p.m.

Tues. Dec. 5 8:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m., 4:30-8:00 p.m.

Wed. Dec. 6 11:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m., 6:00 -9:00 p.m.

Thurs. Dec. 7 TBD

Fri. Dec. 8 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Sat. Dec. 9 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Sun. Dec. 10 9:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.



Parents!

Hanukkah Story Time and Edible Craft with Rebecca Swartz!

Sunday, December 10, 1:30-2:15 p.m.

At the Boulder JCC

For children ages 2 1/2 – 5 years

Cost: $8/child; $6/each additional sibling

 

Bring your child to the Boulder JCC for a terrific parent/child workshop. We’ll begin with a Hanukkah story and create an edible Hanukkah craft to take home.

Pre-registration with payment is required. Please contact Beth Litz, Boulder Shalom Baby Coordinator, at Bethlitz@yahoo.com or (720) 364-1812. Registration forms can be downloaded at www.boulderjcc.org under Programs.


Remember: Book-a-thon begins February 11! Read books, win fabulous prizes and raise money for the library. See details in the January issue.


Homebound?

We have a wonderful volunteer who will pick up and/or deliver books directly to you. This service will only be available every two weeks. Call Froma to schedule at (303) 998-1900, ext. 5 or email Froma@boulderjcc.org.


Book Club!


Schlepping the Alps: My Search for Austria’s Jewish Past with Its Last Wandering Shepherd

By Sam Apple

Wednesday, December 20, Noon-1:30 p.m.

At the Boulder JCC North Wing

From Booklist: “Apple is a Jewish comic writer, and in July 2000 he met Hans in New York. Hans, the son of a Jewish father and Gentile mother, was born in Vienna, became a shepherd, and developed a love for singing Yiddish songs. The following year Apple joined Hans in "schlepping" through various Alpine locations, tape recorder and sheep in hand. His account of that sojourn is whimsical, often hilarious, and often deeply disturbing. For Apple was not merely interested in an eccentric shepherd or in local folk culture. He was fully cognizant of the long tradition of Austrian anti-Semitism and of the role of Austrians in the Holocaust. So, while recounting delightful episodes with Hans and his sheep, as well as interesting observations on the lost world of Yiddish culture, Apple suggests that anti-Semitism maintains a tenacious hold in many small towns and villages in rural Austria. A funny book making serious points.”

You will be hard-pressed to find a better read.” - Library Journal:

You bring a dairy or pareve lunch and we’ll provide drinks and dessert.

Contact Froma@boulderjcc.org or call (303) 998-1900, ext. 5.


Upcoming books….

Jan. 17, Nicole Krauss, The History of Love

Feb. 15, Julius Lester, Lovesong: Becoming a Jew

 

Available for purchase in the library!

When the World Closed its Doors by Ida Piller-Greenspan

At a special price of only $18 (a savings of $4.00)


The true story of a couple caught between the Nazis and the bureaucratic maze that prevented all but a relatively few Jewish refugees from emigrating from Nazi-occupied Europe. Local artist Piller-Greenspan has created a pictorial diary of this journey. Her prints--lyrical, haunting, and compelling-- accompany this page-turning narrative.


B’YAHAD

Investing in Israel

With Shai Aizin, The Israeli Economic Consul in Los Angeles

Tuesday, Dec. 5, 5-7 p.m.

At the Boulder JCC

Cost: $12; includes wine and cheese reception

Co-Sponsored by Chai Tech


What does Warren Buffet know that you don’t know? The richest investor in the world, Buffet startled financial circles with his recent $4 billion buy-out of an Israeli precision tools conglomerate operating out of Galilee – his first overseas investment. Not only that, but Buffett calls Israel a promising country for investors. From stocks to real estate, come hear about the opportunities for investing in Israel. RSVP to Kathryn@boulderjcc.org or call (303) 998-1021.


Shai Aizin is the Consul for Economics Affairs for the Government of Israel’s Economic Mission in Los Angeles, which focuses on a wide range of activities and services aimed at the promotion of trade and joint ventures between Israel and western states, including Colorado.


Reel Israel: An Israeli Film Series co-sponsored by B’Yahad: The Israel Center at the Boulder JCC, Congregation Har HaShem and Menorah


Live and Become (2004)

Directed by Radu Mihaileanu

In Hebrew with English subtitles

Starring Yael Abecassis, Roschdy Zem, Moshe Agazai, Moshe Abebe

Saturday, Dec. 2, 7 p.m.

At the Boulder JCC

Suggested donation: $5


The year is 1984, the place a Sudanese refugee camp sheltering Ethiopians displaced by civil war and famine. The Mossad has begun Operation Moses, airlifting thousands of Falashas, or Ethiopian Jews, to Israel. A desperate non-Jewish Ethiopian woman persuades a Falasha woman whose own son has just died to allow her son to assume his identity. Now called Schlomo, the boy is adopted by a loving, liberal Israeli family and begins to build a new life based on a life-saving lie. Director Radu Mihaileanu (“Train of Life”) follows Schlomo on his 20-year quest to fulfill his mother’s parting plea, “go, live and become.” Winner of the audience prize at the 2005 Berlin Film Festival, this deeply moving drama about alienation, assimilation and identity offers a look at an extremely sensitive subject in modern Israeli life.

A sprawling, truth-based tale held together by a remarkable trio of performances.” - Toronto Star


To RSVP: Kathryn@boulderjcc.org or call (303) 998-1021.



MENORAH

The Protocols of Zion”

(2005)

Directed by Marc Levin

Saturday, Dec. 9, 7 p.m.

At the Boulder JCC

Suggestion donation: $8 for Boulder JCC members; $10 for non-members

Ticket includes a $5 coupon for book purchases of $36

With introduction and discussion by Bruce DeBoskey

Co-sponsored by the Rocky Mountain Region ADL


The Protocols of the Elders of Zion" is one of the most infamous literary frauds in history, and arguably the most dangerous. Director Marc Levin uses this libelous, late-19th century tract authored by minions of the Russian czar -- and, until recently at least, a bestseller at Wal-Mart – as a springboard in his compelling exposé of the rise of anti-Semitism in the USA following 9/11. Levin embarks on a personal odyssey as he explores the historical background of the bogus book, peruses Amazon.com and Wal-Mart, and watches bloody dramatizations of it produced for Egyptian and Hezbollah TV (showing ritual murders of Christian children). He takes his camera to the streets to engage in lively debates with Arab Americans and black nationalists who know of the "Protocols" and the conspiracy theory it sells; and to his own Jewish community, which fears his quest will only give the nefarious book more visibility. As the film progresses, his search becomes a larger examination of the current state of anti-Semitism in America.

The only civilized response to this display of abject ignorance, hatred and bigotry is one of anguished despair, but Levin's film enlightens as much as it enrages.” - Jeff Shannon, The Seattle Times


To RSVP: Kathryn@boulderjcc.org or call (303) 998-1021.


Tales of the Crypto-Jews”

With Professor Dell Sanchez

Thursday, Dec. 14, 7 p.m.

At the Boulder JCC

Cost: $6 for BJCC members; $8 for non-members


A former pastor in San Antonio, Dell Sanchez retired from the ministry upon discovering his Jewish heritage and began studying the history of the Crypto-Jews and Conversos. The author of The Last Exodus, Sanchez is a leading authority on the subject and is also active in educating both Jewish and Christian groups. Since 1996, he has been leading teaching-learning groups in Israel. His talk will focus on the history of the Sephardim, beginning with how the Jews came to Spain. He will also discuss the personal conflicts and confusion for Christians faced with a dilemma of faith in discovering their Jewish roots.


48 Ways to Wisdom

With Yehudis Fishman

Tuesdays, 9:30 -11 a.m.

At the Boulder JCC

Dec. 5, 12, 19

Drop-in cost: $15


Morah Yehudis Fishman brings a palpable passion for Torah and Judaism to her work as a teacher and mentor. A renowned educator, Morah Yehudis Fishman has been sharing the wisdom of Torah with students for more than 25 years. Her unique ability to convey Jewish principles and unravel the mysteries of Jewish mysticism in a personally meaningful and non-judgmental manner has earned the affection of her devoted students.

In these challenging times, both individually and collectively, the greatest sages of our times have emphasized that the most valuable personal work that we can do is to work on character refinement in a Torah context.  This class, combining deep teaching and honest dialogue and soul-searching, can help you achieve this goal.” – Yehudis Fishman


Contact: Kathryn@boulderjcc.org or call (303) 998-1021.



Menorah is grateful for the support of Allied Jewish Federation and ScienceD.


Winter Break Acrylic Painting Course

With Alice Rosenblatt

For 6th through 8th grade students

Wednesday, Dec. 20, Thursday Dec. 21 and Friday Dec. 22

10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

At the Boulder JCC


Cost: Boulder JCC members: $100/3 days; Non-members: $110/3 days


Explore color, composition and acrylic painting techniques. Led by Alice Rosenblatt, participants will produce canvas paintings working from changing still-life set-ups and/or photo-inspired images. Individual instruction, instructor demonstrations and group critiques will help students hone their skills and develop their own style of expression. Supply list will be given at time of registration. Paint and brushes will be supplied by instructor.

Alice Rosenblatt is a Boulder artist with extensive art training in painting and drawing for over twenty years. She has a Master’s degree in elementary school teaching and has taught painting at elementary schools, art centers and overnight camp.


To RSVP: Kathryn@boulderjcc.org or call (303) 998-1021.



Trio Amicale in Concert

Monday, Dec. 4, 7 p.m.

At the Boulder JCC


Join us during the Book Fair for a free classical music concert with this wonderful trio, featuring Stan Persky, Ruth Galloway and Deanna Young.


To RSVP: Kathryn@boulderjcc.org or call (303) 998-1021.


Shir HaLev: The Boulder Jewish Chorus
"Holidays!"
Concert and Reception
Sunday, December 10, 7 p.m.
At the Boulder JCC

Tickets: $10 in advance and $12 at the door for adults; $5 in advance and $6 at the door for children and seniors.
 
Shir HaLev: The Boulder Jewish Chorus returns with new songs for the season, from Rosh HaShanah through Hanukkah. Enjoy new and contemporary pieces, as well as some old favorites, particularly for the Festival of Lights. A reception with light refreshments will follow the concert.
 
Shir HaLev: The Boulder Jewish Chorus performs choral music spanning all Jewish traditions, cultures and languages. The chorus is open to adults and teens and welcomes new members. Contact Martha (Malkah-T) Utchenik for information about joining: shirhalev@gmail.com.


For tickets or more information: Kathryn@boulderjcc.org or call (303) 998-1021.


MAIMONIDES

Spiritual Support Group for Adults Coping with Chronic or Catastrophic Illness

Open session dates: Wed., Dec. 20. Noon - 1:30 p.m.

At the Boulder JCC

Bring a bag lunch.


I lift my eyes to the mountains, from where will my help come?

Psalm 121


The Maimonides Wellness Center’s Spiritual Support Group for adults coping with chronic or catastrophic illness is open to newcomers.


Come explore the challenges and deeper questions of meaning that emerge in this time of radical change and coping in your life. Based in a model of group Spiritual Direction - a disciplined approach to spiritual reflection through the sharing of experiences, reflective listening, silence and response – we will seek to become more aware of how the Divine is working in our lives, and find our source of help.


In order to learn the process and create a circle of intimacy and safety, the support group will meet as a closed group for five months, beginning in January 2007. Newcomers are welcomed to experience the group in November and December; after which we ask that you make the commitment to participate regularly, as your health permits.


Rabbi Nadya Gross has been facilitating the Maimonides support group since its inception five years ago. She serves as co-rabbi of Pardes Levavot: a Jewish renewal congregation. “Reb Nadya” is the Associate Director of Hashpa’ah (Spiritual Direction) for ALEPH: Alliance for Jewish Renewal’s ordination programs, which leads to certification as Spiritual Director and Ordination as ‘Mashpia.’ Her private practice as Mashpi’ah focuses on individuals, couples, and clergy.


For more information, contact Kathryn@boulderjcc.org or (303) 998-1021.




Get your tickets NOW for the event of 2007!

The Boulder JCC is proud to present Joshua Nelson,
“The Prince of Kosher Gospel,” in Concert

Saturday, February 3, 2007

8pm

At the Boulder Theater

All proceeds go to benefit the wonderful programs at the Boulder JCC!

Visit www.bouldertheater.com for tickets!

Visit www.boulderjcc.com to hear Joshua Nelson sing!

The next BIG thing in music…He literally brings the house down.” – Oprah Winfrey