Radio Chavura
NATIONAL EDITION: Featuring Historian Dr. Jeanne Abrams and JNF Leader Gene Kay

On this week’s edition of Radio Chavura, we feature exclusive interviews with two Denverites who will be active participants in the upcoming JNF National Conference, scheduled to be held here in Colorado from October 25th through October 28th. 

Our first guest is noted historian Jeanne Abrams.  Dr. Abrams – author of the newly published book, Revolutionary Medicine: The Founding Fathers in Sickness and health – will lead an afternoon session on Sunday the 27th, during which she’ll share the amazing and at times harrowing tales of Colorado’s early Jewish Settlers. 

After Jeanne, we talk about the Jewish National Fund with Gene Kay, board chair of the JNF’s Rocky Mountain Region.  Gene, along with Stanley Kamlet, are well-known throughout the United States for their tireless work on behalf of the Jewish National Fund.

Both Gene and Stan will be honored at the national conference on Monday morning, October 28th.

If you haven’t yet registered to attend the JNF national conference, we at Radio Chavura encourage you to do so today.  Simply visit JNF.org and click on the national conference logo.

The JNF Conference, like the JNF itself, is a chance to give of yourself and discover how much personal satisfaction you will reap in return.

The national edition of Radio Chavura is intended to build support for the Jewish National Fund conference to be held in Denver from October 25th through October 28th. The conference will bring together hundreds of committed Jewish leaders from across the United States to learn about JNF's ongoing work on behalf of the land and people of Israel. Those attending will also have the opportunity to meet and interact with committed volunteers of all ages, as well as to contribute their own ideas for enriching the work of JNF.

CREDITS:

Hosts:  Maxwell and Dean Rotbart

Musical Director:  Julie Geller

Audio Production:  Blane Nichols

Additional Audio Elements:  Jason Hickman

Director of Research:  Talya Rotbart

Staff Photographer:  Avital Rotbart

Opening Music (Hinei Mah Tov) and Closing Credits (Elokai):  Julie Geller

Songs:

  • Eli Ata Ve'Odecha - Oded Melchner
  • Jews Don't Camp - Rocky Mountain Jewgrass
  • Lo Yisa Goy - Miami Boys Choir [Support Jewish Day Schools]
  • Open the Gates (Pitchu Li) - Rabbi Joe Black - Leave a Little Bit Undone
  • Niggun Nevo - Shlomo Katz [Denver Community Kollel]
  • Sim Shalom - Talya Rotbart, Vocalist and Gabriela Gottlieb, Pianist - Lu Yehi

JNF Liaisons:  Neta Yoffe and Boaz Meir

Photo:  Dr. Jeanne Abrams

Direct download: 093013_RadioChavura_JNF_02_National.mp3
Category:National Edition -- posted at: 2:16pm MDT

NATIONAL EDITION: Exclusive Interview with JNF's Russell F. Robinson

Russell F. Robinson, JNF's CEO and a member of its global board of directors, is the featured guest on this inaugural national edition of Radio Chavura.

Robinson divulges that at this year's national conference, JNF will formally announce an unprecedented 10-year, $1 billion fundraising campaign, that he says will be "the most innovative, most bold campaign" even untaken by a Jewish organization.  

The national edition of Radio Chavura is intended to build support for the Jewish National Fund conference to be held in Denver from October 25th through October 28th. The conference will bring together hundreds of committed Jewish leaders from across the United States to learn about JNF's ongoing work on behalf of the land and people of Israel. Those attending will also have the opportunity to meet and interact with committed volunteers of all ages, as well as to contribute their own ideas for enriching the work of JNF.

"Colorado has a flourishing and vibrant Jewish community which couldn't be more excited to welcome the JNF national conference," says Maxwell Rotbart, co-host of Radio Chavura.

Rotbart notes that the Colorado Jewish community, which predates statehood in 1876, gave rise to the United Way and helped inspire Golda Meir's Zionism during her sojourn in Denver as a high schooler.  Well-known global brands that have Jewish roots in Colorado, include Samsonite Luggage, Hot Pockets, and perhaps most famous of all, the Barbie doll.  (Inventor Ruth Mosko Handler was born and raised in Denver.)

Today, Colorado is an incubator of many cutting edge companies in the technology and health sectors, serving as the global headquarters of the Society of Physician Entrepreneurs, which educates and connects biomedical and health innovators who seek to commercialize their ideas, inventions and discoveries.

Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper, who recently returned from an inspiring visit to Israel, will be the JNF conference's opening speaker on Friday, October 25th.  Other Coloradans scheduled to participate in the program include Rabbi Joe R. Black, spiritual leader of Temple Emanuel; Jerome "Jerry" Tinianow, chief sustainability officer for the City of Denver; and Dr. Jeanne Abrams, an historian and professor at the University of Denver.  

At the breakfast and closing plenary on Monday, October 28th, Ken Salazar, former Secretary of the U.S. Department of the Interior and a former U.S. Senator from Colorado, will be the speaker.  During the breakfast, longtime JNF lay leaders, Eugene "Gene" Kay and Stanley Kamlet will be honored for their years of service. 

CREDITS:

Hosts: Maxwell and Dean Rotbart

Musical Director:  Julie Geller

Audio Production:  Blane Nichols

Additional Audio Elements:  Jason Hickman

Director of Research:  Talya Rotbart

Staff Photographer:  Avital Rotbart

Opening Announcement: Eugene Kay

Opening Music (Hinei Mah Tov) and Closing Credits (Elokai):  Julie Geller

Songs:

  • Zum Gali Gali - Fred Fastow, Jewish Songs for Classical Guitar
  • Maym Mayin - Israeli Folk Group, Authentic Israeli Folk Songs & Dances
  • Lo Yisa Goy - Miami Boys Choir
  • Yism'Chu - Rabbi Joe Black, Sabbatical

JNF Liaisons:  Neta Yoffe (New York) and Boaz Meir (Colorado)

Direct download: 092313_RadioChavura_JNF_01.mp3
Category:National Edition -- posted at: 7:21pm MDT

Strong Jewish Marriages and Perfect Games

Rabbi Gadi and Mrs. Eve Levy discuss their workshop, "7 Habits of Highly Effective Jewish Marriage."   The Levys, both of whom work at The Jewish Experience in Denver, developed the course to offer married couples Torah-principled marriage guidelines.  

One of the 7 habits, Mrs. Levy explains, is to celebrate diversity.  

There comes a point in each marriage, she notes, when every husband and wife looks at one another and wonders, “How did I ever marry you? We’re so different!”

Mrs. Levy reminds us that gender differences a reality we need to laud. “It’s good to understand that we’re different, the Torah tells us so.”

Also on this week's program, lifelong bowler, David Suson, discusses the newly repositioned Denver Jewish Bowling League, which continues the tradition of weekly competitive Jewish league bowling begun by B'nai B'rith in the 1940s.  The new league, which began on August 28th, is still accepting new teams and individiual bowlers. 

Suson, by the way, has bowled three league-sanctioned perfect "300" games.

Photo: Host Maxwell Rotbart with Rabbi Gadi Levy

Direct download: 090813_RadioChavura_KRKS_26min_GadiLevy_DavidSuson.mp3
Category:Community Groups -- posted at: 7:00pm MDT

The Palestinian Authority continues to hide its true intentions toward Israel from the non-Arab world, while consistently pushing a three-part anti-Israeli message to the Palestinian people, says Itamar Marcus, director of Palestinian Media Watch, and the special guest on this week's final installment of our three-part High Holidays series.

"When people understand the true Palestinian ideology, they realize that the victimhood [storyline] is a mask," Marcus explains during a pre-recorded telephone interview from Israel.  That internal Palestinian message has three consistent components, he says:  First, to deny Israel's right to exist; second, to demonize Israel and Jews, and third, to promote violence.

Since 1996, PMW has monitored the Palestinian media, speeches and schoolbooks to showcase what the Palestinians are saying - in their very own words, and how their Arab-language messaging differs from the mask the Palestinians present to the English-language world. 

While numerous global news organizations do report on PMW's findings, Marcus tells Radio Chavura that too often the news media miss a critical aspect of the Palestinians' messages to their own people - what the journalists call "incitement."

"We say there is no incitement," says Marcus, who grew up in the U.S. and now lives in Israel. "They're expressing their honest beliefs and opinions. They're saying it and we should listen to them and believe them."

The PMW has a staff of nine translators who read the Palestinian newspapers and watch the newscasts of two Palestinian TV stations.

Read more about Itamar Marcus and Palestinian Media Watch on our website.

Recent Palestinian Media Watch Articles - "In Their Own Words":

Click here to Support Palestinian Media Watch and its vital mission 

Direct download: 090113_RadioChavura_KRKS_26min_Itamar_Marcus.mp3
Category:High Holiday Specials -- posted at: 8:19am MDT

3_Guests_Flyer
______________________________
 
Tonight on the Radio!

Dr. Neil W. Levin, a professor at the Jewish Theological Seminary and one of the world's leading experts on Jewish music, joins us for our hour-long High Holidays series kickoff. 

Dr. Levin presents seven classic Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur songs from the Milken Archive of Jewish Music, where he has served as the artistic director since 1993.  These moving tunes are guaranteed to move and inspire you as we approach the New Year and the Days of Awe. 
The seven featured melodies are listed and linked below.  By clicking on the links you'll be able to hear the unabbreviated versions of each song.

Ahot K'tanna

This classic tune, conducted in the "Western Sephardic" - or Amsterdam - tradition, dates back to the American colonial era, and would undoubtedly have been heard by George Washington had he ventured into one the five American congregations that had existed at the time. The exact same tune can still be heard at Congregation Sheerith Israel (a.k.a. The Spanish and Portuguese Synagogue) in New York, the country's very first synagogue. This recording is sung with a unison choir, as it would have been done in the 18th century.

Ahot K'tanna is a "piyut," or inserted liturgical poem within the liturgy, and is recited at the close of the Jewish calendar year.  The text reads: "The year being ended, may all the evils of thereof be terminated..."
This tune is a sophisticated artistic treatment of the shofar service, which is conducted multiple times during the High Holidays. Herman Berlinski's composition gained popularity in the 1960s in Reform congregations in America, and beautifully intertwines the call of the ram's horn with its accompanying liturgy.

Rabbi Black Bookshelf
Photo: 
This shofar and the accompanying books come from the office of Temple Emanuel's Rabbi Joseph Black.
This holiday tune, composed by Israel Schorr, is sung with a traditional choir in the virtuoso cantorial practice, or Hazzanut. The prayer, which comes from the Yom Kippur service, translates as: "We dare not cast our supplications before You with a false felling of our own righteousness. We do so because of our faith in Your great mercy."
This tune is part of the "Mi Sinai" tradition, which dates back to the Rhineland region of Germany in the Middle Ages. The Mi Sinai tunes are so old, and so well known, that - in the Ashkenazi world - they might as well be considered canon. The Hatzi Kaddish is recited at the start of Mussaf service on Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur.
This tune is a typical cantorial quasi-improvisation (with a typical improvised choral backup). The coposition is attributed to Moshe Koussevitsky, widely-considered one of the greatest cantors of all time. This version was recorded with Ben Zion Miller, a leading modern-day cantor. 

Une Sane Tokef is a central "piyut" for Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur, and reads: "We observe the mighty holiness of this day - one of awe and anxiety... We conceive You established on Your throne of mercy... as Judge and Witness, recording our secret thoughts and acts, and setting the seal thereon."
Set by Joshua Lind, this tune follows the typical joyous nature of the Asheres S'foseinu prayer, which reads: "May our entreaties find favor before You, most high and exalted God, Who not only hears but understands, and Who gives consideration to the voice of our shofar blast." Appropriately, this prayer is read following each of the three sets of shofar blasts in the Rosh Hashana Mussaf service.
This prayer is read at the end of the Mussaf service on Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur. This very tuneful setting, again by Joshua Lind, accompanies the following words: "May You strengthen and bless us on this day; may You inscribe us [in the Book of Life] for a happy life..."
The Milken Archive of Jewish Music is a cultural and historic project of unprecedented scope, launched in 1990 by philanthropist and business executive Lowell Milken.  Milken is the chairman and co-founder of the Milken Family Foundation.
Dr. Levin has devoted his professional and academic life to the scholarly study of the music of Jewish experience from historical, musicological, ethnological, Judaic, and cross-cultural perspectives.  You can read his complete bio here.
Following Dr. Levin's interview, we air a conversation we had with Chuck Michaels, a local attorney, whose ancestors were among the pioneering Jews who lived in Leadville, CO.

Chuck, who - 17-years-ago -  was at the very first B'nai B'rith Leadville Cemetery Cleanup with his wife Sara and then-infant daughter Shayna (now a senior at Beth Jacob High School), tells us about his ancestor, Solomon Flaks, and gives us a taste of life in late-19th century Leadville. We interviewed Chuck earlier this summer at the B'nai B'rith Leadville Cemetery Cleanup.

Chuck and Sara's two other children are Shmuel, 15, and Benjamin, 13, both students at the Denver Academy of Torah.
FInally on tonight's episode, we receive a field report from Dr. Herzl Melmed, 76, on the final leg of his 500-mile solo bike ride on behalf of "Biking for Kids Under Fire."

Direct download: 081813_RadioChavura_FullBroadcast.mp3
Category:High Holiday Specials -- posted at: 2:57pm MDT

Season Two: 'Move the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem' - U.S. Congressman Doug Lamborn

One of Israel's staunchest allies in the U.S. House of Representatives is Congressman Doug Lamborn, representing Colorado's 5th District.

As the co-chair of the bipartisan Israel Allies Caucus, and co-chair of the Republican Israel Caucus, Congressman Lamborn is a consistent and strong supporter of the special strategic, economic and cultural ties that exist between the United States and Israel.

In recognition of his dedication to the welfare of the people of Colorado and his unwavering support for the State of Israel, Congressman Lamborn will receive the "Pillars of the Colorado Jewish Community" award during tonight's special broadcast of Radio Chavura, marking the start of our second year on the air.

Part of what makes Congressman Lamborn's support of Israel so remarkable is that his district - encompassing Colorado Springs and Buena Vista - is anything but a "Jewish" district. Indeed, Congressman Lamborn represents a minuscule Jewish population, estimated at only 500 families,

So why does he stand steadfast with Israel? Congressman Lamborn explains that he backs Israel because doing so is the right thing to do morally, is consistent with the best interests of America, and because his strongly held Christian values are closely aligned with a pro-Israel stance.

Congressman Lamborn's actions match up with his rhetoric. Three times since he first took office in 2007, Congressman Lamborn has led the effort to pass legislation that would relocate the United States Embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem (the country's lawful capital). He has also been the lead sponsor of a legislative amendment that would prohibit the distribution of taxpayer funds to any individual, private entity or government that does not expressly recognize the right of the State of Israel to exist.

In tonight's exclusive sit-down interview with Congressman Lamborn, taped recently at the studios of 1460 KZNT AM in Colorado Springs, we discuss the roots of the Congressman's awareness of the special role that Israel plays in the world and its friendship with the United States.  We also talk about his strong Christian faith and values - shared with his wife, Jeanie - and how they have deepened his respect for the State of Israel.

In particular, Congressman Lamborn notes the Biblical verse, where G-d speaks to Abraham, saying "And I will bless those who bless you and curse him who curses you (Genesis 12:3)."

Among other topics that Congressman Lamborn covers are the reasons why the U.S. and Israel are so often the target of radical Islamic groups and whether America's support of Israel makes it a greater target for terrorists.

Congressman Lamborn also serves on the Congressional Task Force Against Anti-Semitism and the International Religious Freedom Caucus. Those wishing to comment on Congressman Lamborn's support of Israel may visit his website, or call him at 719-520-0055.

Radio Chavura is co-hosted Maxwell Rotbart and his father, Dean – both homegrown members of the Denver Jewish community.  The program is broadcast each Sunday at 6:30 pm on 990 KRKS AM in Denver.

Do you want to suggest a potential guest for the show or learn how to become a sponsor? Call Dean & Maxwell at 1-855-JEWISH-4 or email them at radiochavura@gmail.com. For more information, visit our website: www.Chavura.com.

First Broadast:  July 7, 2013
Photo: Congressman Doug Lamborn - (Photo Credit: Avital Rotbart, Radio Chavura) 


Boaz Meir: JNF's Mission Circa 2013 Includes Desalination and Desert Reclamation
Come October 25, 2013, the eyes of the Jewish world will be focused on Denver, as the Mile High City hosts the annual Jewish National Fund national conference. 

JNF, which is also known by the initials KKL (for its Hebrew name - Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael), is one of the largest and most prominent Israeli environmental groups, tracing its origins back to the days of Theodor Herzl and the Zionist Congresses (during which time it was tasked with buying land in Israel).

Today, JNF is mostly often associated with reforestation efforts in Israel (planting 250 million trees in the last 100 years).  But JNF is also deeply involved with other missions crucial to Israel and its people.

Boaz Meir, the recently-appointed director of JNF's Mountain States region (encompassing Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho), joins us in the studio to discuss what JNF looks like today; the work of its Mountain States regional office; and what we can expect at the national conference this October.

One of the most exciting endeavors that Boaz discusses with us is the work that the Mountain States office is doing to lend its support to JNF's campaign to populate the desert regions of Israel.  

 
This week's show is the final episode of our first season. We began broadcasting Radio Chavura on Sunday, July 1, 2012.  Our program airs weekly on 990 KRKS AM

For more information on JNF, contact Boaz and the Mountain States offices of JNF at  303-573-7095.

Radio Chavura is co-hosted Maxwell Rotbart and his father, Dean – both homegrown members of the Denver Jewish community.  The program is broadcast each Sunday at 6:30 pm on 990 KRKS AM in Denver.

Do you want to suggest a potential guest for the show or learn how to become a sponsor? Call Dean & Maxwell at 1-855-JEWISH-4 or email them at radiochavura@gmail.com. For more information, visit our website: www.Chavura.com.

First Broadast:  June 30, 2013
Photo: Boaz Meir, JNF 

Direct download: 063013_RadioChavura_KRKS_26min_BoazMeir_JNF.mp3
Category:Community Groups -- posted at: 7:36pm MDT

Intermountain Jewish News (IJN) in Denver Celebrates its 100th Anniversary

Radio Chavura host Dean Rotbart, who also hosts a the weekly Business Unconventional radio newsmagazine, interviewed Rabbi Hillel Goldberg about this week's commemorative issue of the Intermountain Jewish News (IJN), which is celebrating its 100th anniversary.

Dean's interview with Rabbi Goldberg, who is the IJN's executive editor, was taped in August 2012 in anticipation of the paper's centennial-year festivities.  Dean is joined by David Biondo, who serves as Dean's co-host on Business Unconventional.  B. Unconventional is broadcast each Sunday on 710 KNUS AM in Denver from 8 am to 9 am.

In this edited portion of the August 26, 2012 business program, Rabbi Goldberg discusses what it takes to keep the IJN vibrant and relevant, as well as his pride over the high-quality of readers and advertisers that the paper attracts.

Rabbi Goldberg's father, Max, of blessed memory (z'l), purchased the IJN in 1943 for $1.  At the time, the community-owned publication was a financial mess.  Max Goldberg and Robert Gamzey, who was brought in as a partner, revitalized the paper both financially and editorially.  The IJN has won dozens - perhaps hundreds - of editorial honors over the decades.

Upon his father's passing, Rabbi Goldberg's mother, Miriam assumed the leadership of the paper and oversaw its continued growth until passing along the duties to Rabbi Goldberg. Virtually all of the Rabbi's children are active (or have been active) in contributing to the IJN.

Rabbi Goldberg notes that several of the IJN's employees have remained with the paper for more than 35 years, including assistant editor Chris Leppek

Original Broadcast:  August 2012
Length: 14:52 

Direct download: 082612_HillelGoldberg_BUnRadio_Interview.mp3
Category:Denver Jewish History -- posted at: 6:59pm MDT

Boulder's Own Adventure Rabbi and Hazon Founder Nigel Savage

On June 9th, the Radio Chavura team drove to Boulder to participate in the Boulder Jewish Festival

This year's event, the 19th annual festival, was organized by Cheryl Fellows, who also publishes the Boulder Jewish News with her husband, David.

We saw many friends from both Denver and Boulder, and had the opportunity to meet new people and learn about some wonderful regional organizations, including LoKo Denver: Local Kosher Food, the Longmont Shabbat Group, Westminster's Congregation B'nai Torah, the Boulder Mikvah, and Boulder's Congregation Bonai Shalom.

Three of the groups we encountered - Adventure Rabbi, Hazon, and Camp, Inc. - are featured on this week's edition of Radio Chavura.

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The Adventure Rabbi Program was started by Rabbi Jamie Korngold in 2001.  A strong believer in the power of nature to inspire modern Jews and bring them closer to G-d, Rabbi Jamie and her congregation regularly take trips to some of the most beautiful places in the United States and Israel. 

The author of seven books - including five aimed at children and families - Rabbi Jamie is a dynamic leader and exemplifies the fresh spirit that abounds in Boulder.

We are joined by Rabbi Jamie to talk about the exciting programs that Adventure Rabbi offers.

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Hazon  - now the largest Jewish environmental group in the country - was started by New York resident (and British expat) Nigel Savage in 2000.

Believing that Jews have a responsibility to "create healthier and more sustainable communities in the Jewish world and beyond," Hazon has helped make Jewish Colorado a more environmentally-aware place to live.

Denver Jews may be most familiar with Hazon's involvement at the Ekar Farm, which sits adjacent to the Denver Academy of Torah campus.

We are joined by Nigel and by Hazon's Boulder director, Becky O'Brien, to talk about Hazon's mission and its future.

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Camp, Inc., a new Jewish camp for young entrepreneurs, may not be opening its doors for another year, but it's already creating buzz among circles of innovative young people here in Colorado.

Managed by the Boulder JCC and its chief camp officer Josh Pierce, Camp, Inc., promises to inspire the Jewish youth of today to develop the ideas that will "make a positive difference in the world" of tomorrow.

We are joined by Josh to talk about Camp Inc.'s Summer 2014 launch.

Original Air Date: June 16, 2013
Photo:  David and Cheryl Fellows, Boulder Jewish Festival (Credit: Avital Rotbart) 

Direct download: 061613_RadioChavura_KRKS_26min-_BoulderJFest2013_-_E.mp3
Category:Jewish Events -- posted at: 4:57pm MDT

Rivka Cohen's Inspiring Musical, Broadway unBound
Two segments on this week's edition of Radio Chavura, which is broadcast every Sunday at 6:30 pm (Mountain) on 990 KRKS AM.
When Rivka Cohen was a young girl, she fell in love with musical theater. Determined that her life's direction would take her to Broadway and beyond, she pursued her passion with vigor. 
As she became a more observant Jew in her adult years, Rivka faced a dilemma. Orthodox Jewish women don't sing in front of male audiences - doing so is considered a form of immodesty. If Rivka were to adopt a fully observant lifestyle, she would have to give up on her dream of performing in Broadway musicals.

Rivka had spent her whole life believing that she was 'bound for Broadway,' and now found herself rethinking her performance career - which she loved.
In her humorous, touching and inspiring one-woman musical, Broadway unBound, Rivka narrates her struggle and explains her ultimate decision: to put a halt to her secular musical career and devote her life to Torah and other Jewish pursuits (including raising a lovely family with her husband Meir).
Broadway unBound will debut at Aish Denver on Sunday, June 23rd, at 7 pm. This program - exclusively for women and girls above age 10 - will be followed by a reception. The tickets are $25. Register by calling 303-220-7200. 
===========================================================
Zach Stern, a sixth grade student at Denver Jewish Day School, wanted to raise funds and awareness for Shalom Cares (which many people know best for its Shalom Park Nursing Home) for his Bar Mitzvah project.
His intentions were kind-hearted - Shalom Cares is a compassionate care facility that serves our community. Zach witnessed a similar center help his grandfather during a time of need, and felt that helping Shalom Cares would be a way for him to say 'thank you' to all the dedicated people who manage organizations such as Shalom Cares.
Zach decided that to make his project really count he would have to turn his efforts into an investment of sorts, and then watch his contribution grow exponentially.
Using his love for sports in general - and golf in particular - as his motivation, Zach decided to host a community-wide charity golf tournament. Now, rather than raising awareness and funds from just a close-knit group of friends, Zach will be generating donations from many community members (including listeners of Radio Chavura)!
Although Zach's Bar Mitzvah, at the Hebrew Educational Alliance, won't take place until November, the golf tournament will be held on Sunday, June 23rd (while the weather is still nice) at the Family Sports Center, located at 6901 S. Peoria Street, Centennial, 80112. Registration is $36.  Check in begins at 11:30 am. For questions, please contact Zach or his father, Jon Stern, at 720-203-2642. 
Original Air Date:  June 9, 2013
Photos: Zach Stern and Rivka Cohen
Direct download: 060913_RadioChavura_KRKS_26min_ZachSternRivkaCohen.mp3
Category:Jewish Events -- posted at: 6:10pm MDT

Evergreen's Rabbi Levi Brackman  Helps Teens Identify Their Passions

Decades ago, cartoonist Gary Larson, creator of the popular "Far Side" comic strip, drew an image of two middle-class parents, watching their son play video games, and wishfully thinking that maybe - one day - he would find a high-paying job as a Nintendo or Mario Brothers player (because he clearly was incapable of doing anything else). 

Most parents of teenage children can relate to the disconcerting fear that their children will never find a passion that will translate into a fulfilling career.

Rabbi Levi Brackman, founder of the Denver-based Youth Directions, is determined to make sure that all teens find a meaningful path in life that fits their interests and talents.

Rabbi Brackman, who is the guest on this week's edition of Radio Chavura, started Youth Directions only four years ago, but has already transformed the lives of many young adults in Colorado - both Jewish and gentile - by giving them the "space" to discover their lives' purpose.

With a specific action plan, designed based upon his years of experience as an entrepreneur and community leader (both in the United Kingdom and the United States), Rabbi Brackman works with public and private school teachers to bring Youth Directions into their classrooms, helping students to learn about themselves in the safety of their own school.

Rabbi Brackman also serves as director and rabbi at Judaism in the Foothills, a dynamic, non-judgmental congregation at the base of the Rocky Mountains that Rabbi Brackman founded with his wife Sheindy in 2005.

To learn how to get your child involved with Youth Directions, or how to bring its curriculum of self-empowerment to your school, contact Rabbi Brackman at 303-462-5777.

To find out more about the amazing Judaism in the Foothills community, call Rabbi Brackman at 303-679-0613.

Direct download: 060213_RadioChavura_KRKS_26min_Brackman.mp3
Category:Judaism in the Foothills -- posted at: 4:37pm MDT

10th Anniversary Denver JCC Celebrate Family Festival and Walk for Israel

Watch the amazing video and see all 210 photos in only 3 minutes and 30 seconds

On this week's edition of Radio Chavura, hosts Maxwell and Dean Rotbart reflect on last Sunday's vibrant 10th Annual Celebrate Family festival, presented by the Robert E. Loop Jewish Community Center, and the Walk for Israel, organized by the Allied Jewish Federation of Colorado.

Festival guests and organizers who are interviewed include:

  • James "Jim" Barnard, Commander, Jewish War Veterans Post #344, the Captain Ellis David Greene chapter  
  • Danielle Menditch, JConnect Coordinator, Hebrew Educational Alliance
  • Becky Epstein, Executive Director, and Jay Mayer, Chairman of the Religious School Committee, B'nai Havurah
  • Caren Blanke, Assistant Executive Director, and Melanie Gruenwald, Director of Family Programs, Jewish Community Center.

Radio Chavura was proud to be an official sponsor of this year's festival and walk. Special thanks to Dani Wynn of the JCC and Dana Eckoff of Professional Planning Group for their assistance.

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Note:  You can view each of the 210 photos in our Radio Chavura video individually by clicking here.  High-resolution digital jpeg files of each photo are available from Radio Chavura for only $18 each.  They make great gifts and keepsakes.  To order, phone 1-855-JEWISH-4 or email us at radiochavura@gmail.com. 

Direct download: 052613_RadioChavura_KRKS_26min_JCCFestival.mp3
Category:Jewish Events -- posted at: 11:50am MDT

Denver Jewish Students in an Amazing Race

Four of Denver's community-minded Jewish young people are guests on the first segment of this week's broadcast of Radio Chavura.  The students, each of whom attends the Denver Academy of Torah, will be participating in The 2013 Color Run to benefit Denver Yachad on Sunday, June 16th.

The students, pictured below are siblings: Estee and Aaron Brooks and Heidi and Pearl Clayman.  To view a complete list of scheduled runners, click here.

Radio Chavura staff photographer, Avital Rotbart, will also be running in support of Denver Yachad (the National Jewish Council for Disabilities), an agency of the Orthodox Union. NJCD is dedicated to addressing the needs of all individuals with disabilities and including them in the Jewish community. 

To show your support for these students, click on their names below.  Even a contribution of a few dollars will be greatly appreciated.  

DONATE: Aaron Brooks, Estee Brooks, Heidi Clayman, Pearl Clayman and Avital Rotbart.

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During our second broadcast segment this week, we are joined by Cheryl Fellows, head of the volunteer committee organizing this year's Boulder Jewish Festival, which will be held on the Pearl Street Mall in Boulder on Sunday, June 9th.  Cheryl talks about the great entertainment and food that will be featured at this year's Festival.

Direct download: 051913_RadioChavura_KRKS_26min_Yachad_BoulderJF_2.mp3
Category:Jewish Students -- posted at: 5:50pm MDT

This is a bonus audio featuring an extended Radio Chavura interview with Bill Korn.  You can hear the broadcast portion of the interview (May 12, 2013) here.

Direct download: RadioChavura_LeadvilleBonusAudio.mp3
Category:Denver Jewish History -- posted at: 9:10am MDT

The Pioneering Jewish Community of Leadville: An Interview with Bill Korn

The merchant store that became a national conglomerate. The immigrant family that emerged as among the wealthiest in America. The synagogue president who was also county commissioner (and - bizarrely - for a short time, the owner of a brothel).

For a period of thirty years at the onset of the 20th century, Leadville was the economic driver of the state of Colorado and home to a thriving Jewish community.

This week on Radio ChavuraBill Korn, an expert on early Leadville Jewry who helped spearhead efforts to rededicate the town's forgotten synagogue and cemetery, shares with us some of the more exciting anecdotes about the town's early Jewish residents and merchants.

Originally founded as a gold mining town, Leadville soon became known for its production of silver, zinc, and molybdenum.

Jews - including David May (founder of the nationally prominent May Company Department Stores); the Guggenheim Family, owners of the American Smelting and Refining Company (ASARCO); and  County CommissionerJoseph Monheimer - all became leaders among both the Jews and non-Jews in Leadville.

The demise of the community began with collapse of the silver industry following the Panic of 1893 and began a steady exodus out of Lake County. Few Jews live in or near Leadville today.

But Bill Korn and others maintain the old synagogue, Temple Israel, as an event center and museum.  And, with the help of B'nai Brith, the old Jewish cemetery remains open to visitors and the family of those buried there.

The annual community cleanup of the Leadville Jewish cemetery  - a Mitzvah, and a wonderful summer event for the entire Colorado Jewish community - will be taking place during the last weekend of June this year (additional details soon). 

To learn more about Jewish Leadville, be sure to attend Bill Korn's discourse at the JCC South  (9625 E. Arapahoe Rd. • Greenwood Village, CO • 80112) on Thursday, May 30th at 7:30 pm

[Do you have Jewish family roots in Leadville? Radio Chavura host, Maxwell Rotbart (in photo above with Bill Korn), is writing a history of Jewish Leadville and would like to hear from anyone with information, photos or memorabilia pertaining to Leadville during the period ranging from the late 1800s to World War II.  Contact him at radiochavura@gmail.com or phone 1-855-JEWISH-4.]


Photo: An artifact from early Jewish Leadville, where whiskey jugs such as this were quite common.  
Schloss Bros was one of many early Jewish businesses in the mining community.

Direct download: 051213_RadioChavura_KRKS_26min_Leadville.mp3
Category:Denver Jewish History -- posted at: 11:36am MDT

Jewish & Widowed: A New Community Group

A new community-wide initiative, Jewish & Widowed, is the focus of our program this week on Radio Chavura.

The group, offering a safe, non-threatening way to begin new friendships, will hold its first event this coming Wednesday, May 8th.  The program is open to Jewish men and women of all ages who have lost a spouse or significant other.

Joining us in the 990 KRKS AM studios to discuss the creation of Jewish & Widowed, as well as its goals, are Connie Suson and Lisa Thorner.

Connie, programming director at Congregation Rodef Shalom, came up with the concept for a community-supported program to connect Jewish men and women who've lost a spouse or partner.  Connie's own father is a widower.

Among those who quickly embraced the concept and shared in its development is Lisa Thorner, programming director at Temple Sinai, who also has a widowed parent.

Connie and Lisa stress that Jewish & Widowed is not a dating service, nor is it a forum for a "group cry."  Rather, it's aimed at fostering friendships and fun among individuals who, in time, will direct their own social functions.

Our interview with Connie and Lisa will be especially interesting to potential group members; their friends and family; and to other community leaders who will enjoy hearing how Connie, Lisa and others have found common purpose, even though they represent different Jewish congregations, religious affiliations and organizations.

Radio Chavura is proud to join these other organizations as co-sponsors of Jewish & Widowed:  Allied Jewish ApartmentsBMH-BJ: The Denver SynagogueB'nai HavurahCongregation Rodef Shalom; Feldman MortuaryHebrew Educational AllianceJFS at the JCCKeshetShalom CaresTemple Emanuel; and Temple Sinai

For more information, contact Connie at 303-399-0035. 

Everyone is welcome to kibbutz, kvel and laugh - just not to kvetch (this is an upbeat group)!

Photo:  Lisa Thorner, Temple Sinai

  

Direct download: 050513_RadioChavura_KRKS_26min_Widowed.mp3
Category:Community Groups -- posted at: 10:47am MDT

The Day the Music Died: Barry Fey (1939-2013)

By Maxwell Rotbart

"And Who The $&%^ Are You?"    

Those are the words of greeting that legendary rock 'n' roll concert promoter Barry Fey said to me when we first met in November 2011. Mr. Fey had come to the 710 KNUS AM studios - where we tape our weekly business news magazine, Business Unconventional - to talk about rock concerts as an industry and his newly published autobiography, Backstage Past.

In addition to my weekly role as co-host of Radio Chavura (airing on KNUS's sister station, 990 KRKS AM), I help produce Business Unconventional, which my father, Dean, co-hosts.

When Mr. Fey arrived at our station, I escorted him inside the recording studio, monitored the timing of the interview that my father taped with him, and was constantly running in and out of the production room.

When the program ended, members of the station staff came and introduced themselves to the legend who brought Led Zeppelin, U2, Bruce Springsteen, The Rolling Stones, Black Sabbath, The Who and Jimi Hendrix, among others, to Denver. 

I stood in the back of the radio studio, observing the photo-ops. Then, all of a sudden, Mr. Fey turned straight to me and barked: "And Who The $&%^ Are You?"  It was pure Barry Fey.

My father once described Mr. Fey as an "M&M" - hard shell on the outside, but sweet within. The comparison was spot on. Months later, when Mr. Fey joined a group of students from the Denver Academy of Torah High School during our first ever recording session of Radio Chavura, he was endearing. 

Mr. Fey, who attended Hebrew school and was Bar Mitzvahed, spoke frankly with the students about his religious beliefs and Jewish upbringing. He also offered many of the students encouragement, in addition to answering their questions about his fabled career as the head of Feyline, his company for 30 years.

When he left the studio that second time - April 27, 2012, a year and a day before his passing - I held the door open for him. Mr. Fey bade me a warm farewell and strode down the hall, beaming. He had just created a new generation of fans.

Goodbye, Barry Fey.  

[Hear him discuss his Jewish upbringing - 60 secs]

[Hear his entire 14 minute radio segment, taped in April 2012, featuring students from the Denver Academy of Torah High School.]

Photo:  Barry Fey and Maxwell Rotbart

Category:Tributes -- posted at: 10:33am MDT

STUDIO J at Radio Chavura: 2013 Lag BaOmer Edition

Celebrate Lag BaOmer this year with Studio J at Radio Chavura and three of Colorado's most engaging and entertaining musical talents:

Hosted by Denver's own multi-talented singer and songwriter, Julie Geller.

Maybe it's the crisp mountain air. Maybe it's the snowmelt. Maybe it's the spiritual influence of our great Jewish day schools and educational programs. 

Regardless, it is undisputed that Colorado's Jewish musical artists generate a unique vibe - a special feel that distinguishes them from the sounds of other Hebrew and Jewish groups.

In February 2013, we launched Studio J at Radio Chavura, an all-music edition of our program.

Each edition of Studio J at Radio Chavura highlights bands that are channeling the Rocky Mountain energy and producing awesome, original Jewish music.  

Original Broadcast Date:  April 28, 2013
Photo:  Singer-Songwriter Julie Geller 

Direct download: 042813_RadioChavura_KRKS_26min_StudioJ_LagBaOmer13.mp3
Category:STUDIO J at Radio Chavura -- posted at: 11:42am MDT

Denver's Temple Emanuel: 2,000 Families, 138 Years, 1 Susie Sigman

On Sunday, April 21, we speak with Temple Emanuel’s dynamic director of membership and programming, Susie Sigman.

As the go-to person at Colorado’s largest and oldest synagogue, Susie manages a congregation that is larger than some cities in our state. And she does it with professionalism and plenty of ruach (spirit)!

Susie works tirelessly to ensure that members of Temple Emanuel feel at home and are part of a meaningful community. Susie tells us about Temple Emanuel’s many religious, educational, and social activities; the synagogue’s (quite musical) religious leaders; and the inclusive nature of Reform Judaism.

Radio Chavura is co-hosted by veteran reporter Dean Rotbart, and his son, Maxwell – both homegrown members of the Denver Jewish community.  The program is broadcast each Sunday on 990 KRKS AM in Denver.

Do you want to suggest a potential guest for the show or learn how to become a sponsor? Call Dean & Maxwell at 1-855-JEWISH-4 or email them at radiochavura@gmail.com. For more information, visit our website: www.Chavura.com.

Direct download: 042113_RadioChavura_KNUS_26min_SSigman.mp3
Category:Synagogues -- posted at: 8:35am MDT

Radio Debut: Two Talented Colorado Jewish Teens! 

This we speak with two outstanding students from the Jewish Student ConnectionGeorgie Seserman and Ben Weil

Georgie (who, in addition to playing five instruments, is a talented singer and songwriter) is a senior at the Denver School of the Arts and plans on attending the Berklee College of Music (Boston, MA) next year. She aspires to a career in music education.  She uses the professional name Georgeta-Rae. 

Hear Georgie perform Outstretched Wings, an original composition.

Ben (who is a master of audio mixing and rap) is a junior at the Denver School of the Arts and is looking at attending Berklee College of Music or the California Institute of the Arts (Valencia, CA) when he graduates.  He uses the professional name Bdub$.

Hear Ben's rap mix, You and Me.

Georgie and Ben talk with us about their college and career aspirations, and explain how Judaism has influenced their lives and music. 

Rabbi Michael Sunshine, who serves as the regional director of JSC, joins Georgie and Ben on the program. Rabbi Sunshine was previously a guest on the October 21, 2012 edition, when he discussed how important Jewish Student Connection is to ensuring that our children in public schools maintain a solid relationship with their religious and cultural identity.

In making their radio performance debuts on Radio Chavura, Georgie and Ben also help us inaugurate our "We've Got Kisharon (Talent)!" Showcase.  We've Got Kisharon will regularly provide a broadcast stage to Colorado's talented Jewish young people - giving them an opportunity to share their special gifts with our growing audience of Jewish and non-Jewish listeners.

If you or a student you know has got "Kisharon," then we'd like to hear from you.  The student need not be a singer or musical artist. We're also interested in Jewish students with skills as actors and actresses, entertainers (of any variety), and even gymnasts and athletes.  

Send us an email at radiochavura@gmail.com, and we'll consider you for a future broadcast edition of "We've Got Kisharon."

Interested in joining Jewish Student Connection (and scoring some really good Kosher bagels in the process)?  Contact Rabbi Sunshine "via smoke signal" or at rabbisunshine@myjsc.org

Direct download: 041413_RadioChavura_KRKS_26min_Seserman.mp3
Category:Jewish Students -- posted at: 10:36am MDT

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