Hike, Bike, Yoga, Pray:
Rosh Hashanah Retreat
5768 / 2007
Estes Park Colorado,
(45 minutes from Boulder)
[Register Now]

These are not your parents' High Holiday services!

• Are the mountains your true spiritual home?
• Do you feel most "connected" when you are outside hiking, biking or simply being?
• Don't you wish Judaism could be like that?

Imagine celebrating Rosh Hashanah in the mountains, hiking, practicing yoga, mountain biking, and singing, with services led by the "Adventure Rabbi."

Leave your fancy clothing at home and come pray 8,000 feet closer to God!

Join us in Colorado for a Rosh Hashanah retreat as we, like our Biblical ancestors, return to the wilderness to welcome the New Year.

View More of Last Year's RH Photos >>

Register Now

Our participants are:

• Outdoor-oriented
• All ages. We've had participants ages 2 months to 92 years (but we tend to get lots of 20s, 30s and 40s)
• All fitness levels, from tri-athletes, to mountaineers to occasional walkers
• Progressive and open-minded about their Judaism
• Looking for "authentic" and meaningful Jewish experiences
• Representative of a range of Jewish knowledge and practice
• From all across the United States, L.A. to Florida, to NYC (and of course from Denver and Boulder, Colorado)
• Newcomers who do not know anyone when the arrive
• Regulars, who have been coming to ARI events for year
• Families with children (special programs for kids 5-8 and 9-12)
• Singles and Couples

High Holiday Rosh Hashanah Service:
Rabbi Korngold's High Holiday services are best described as warm, engaging, and inclusive. They can not be described as long, boring, droning or preachy.

Comments from past participants include: "Wow, I never even had to resort to counting the ceiling tiles!" and, "This is the first service I have been to in years where I didn't count pages."

Members from the community will be chanting from the Torah, blowing the shofar and leading readings. There are ample opportunities for anyone who wishes, to be involved in the service. Click here to volunteer to chant Torah or participate in other ways in the service>>

Weather permitting, the morning service will be held outdoors. For the evening service in the chapel, and the morning if it is indoors, we use a Powerpoint prayerbook that we made, which is filled with nature writings and photos from our trips to bring the outdoors in. We also use the Reform Movement's Gates of Repentance machzor.

Program Descriptions: (more details are within the staff bios below>>)

Full Group Contemplative Hike to Service Site:
The Jewish worship service begins with songs and Psalms, intended to help us "warm-up" before we pray. On this Adventure Rabbi retreat, we move the opening part of the service out of the synagogue. We will walk together as a community, stopping often to slow our selves down and be inspired by the majesty surrounding us. weather permitting, our service will be held in the outdoor amphitheater above Glacier Creek.

Afternoon Session:
The new year is a time to evaluate the year that has passed, make amends, set goals for the year to come and start working towards them! We offer a myriad of outdoor activities to help you do this important work. Whatever you style and your goals you are sure to find an activity that suits you!

Sign-up for program choices will be available online starting Aug 12, 2007.

Weather:
Based on the averages recorded at this time of the year, we expect temperatures between 39 and 70 degrees. Please bring appropriate gear to be outside in sun, rain or snow! We'll send a recommended gear list before the retreat.

Last year it snowed!

Taslich with snowballs

View Last Year's Photos >>

Lodging and meals are arranged directly with the YMCA Estes Park Center.

Eastside
Most of us will stay in the Eastside Lodge. Each room accommodates up to 6 people with 2 sets of bunk beds and queen bed. These rooms have a private 3/4 bathroom (shower, no bath tub), telephone and high speed wireless internet. They are simple and small, but comfortable.

Please note that check out time is 10 a.m. Shower and changing rooms are available at the pool and you do not need to get dressed up for services. However, if you want to be able to come back to your room during the day, you may choose to reserve your room for 2 nights.

If you wish to share a room, please visit our social networking site and post a message to the Rosh Hashanah group. There are often people who prefer to share. Visit here>>

$79/night (3 meals and YMCA membership fee will be added to this price. See below.)

Please arrange your lodging directly with the Center. Use group: 75025E and Password: 15344 to make sure you get our discounted rate and are part of our block. We have reserved a block of rooms.
[Click Here to make your lodging reservation]

Meals:
Each persons staying in a lodge room will be charged for a total of three meals plus a membership fee ($32 per person). Children ages 6-12 are $15 per child. Children under 6 are free. (Who said nothing is free!)

Camping:
Camping is not available at the Estes Park Center YMCA of the Rockies, but is available nearby in Estes Park. You are welcome to do so, although we encourage you to stay at the YMCA to get the most out of the experience. There will be a $10 day use and membership fee charged by the Estes Park Center YMCA of the Rockies. Meals are also available from the YMCA. Please call the YMCA at 1-800.777.9622 and sign up at in advance for meals. They need an accurate head count.

Staying Elsewhere:
Some participants may opt to stay elsewhere, You are welcome to do so, although we encourage you to stay at the YMCA to get the most out of the experience. There will be a $10 day use and membership fee charged by the Estes Park Center YMCA of the Rockies. Meals are also available from the YMCA. Please call the YMCA at 1-800.777.9622 and sign up at in advance for meals. They need an accurate head count.

Refunds: We are unable to issue refunds of any kind because our payment to the facility is made 2 months in advance of the event.

Rabbi Jamie Korngold
Besides for being the Adventure Rabbi, Rabbi Korngold is known for her relevant and thought-provoking sermons. Her teachings are accessible to all levels of Jewish knowledge, and are rich with stories that resonate with our daily lives. Rabbi Korngold is based in Boulder, Colorado.

Adam Griff
Our music will once again be led by Adam Griff, whose enthusiasm for Jewish music is contagious. Griff's is known for his ability to build community through song. He teaches in a manner that is welcoming and accessible. Griff's voice and guitar is always a highlight of our Rosh Hashanah experience. Adam is based in Atlanta, GA.

Jennah Montag Lagomarsino
Jennah Montag is our Event Director for the weekend retreat. Jennah has participated in many Adventure Rabbi events, and was even in Rabbi Korngold's congregation in Vail many years ago. Jennah has extensive experience in event planning and coordinating. This is Jennah second year as our event coordinator. If you have any questions, problems or compliments, please feel free to seek out Jennah. To volunteer to join Jennah's team, helping with check-in, ushering and set-up, please click here.

Scott Lagomarsino
Scott is retuning for his second year as our Assistant Event Director for the weekend retreat. In addition to a myriad of other tasks, Scott is in charge of the menu and serves as our liaison with the kitchen staff. He has many years experience in the catering and event planning industry. If you have any questions, problems or especially compliments, please feel free to seek out Scott.

Jeff Finkelstein
If you have called or emailed the office to find out about this retreat, chances are you spoke with Jeff. Jeff coordinates the overall logistics for the retreat, including web development, fielding participants questions, supervising staff, and everything else you can possible imagine. The Rabbi says without Jeff there would be no retreat!

Jeff is also the lead mountaineering guide at Adventure Rabbi, and brings to the trail years of experience working in the Jewish camping world. He is proud to be product of the Reform Movement's youth group system. Jeff adds to his Jewish knowledge his skills as a back country guide, ski patroller and mountaineer.

1. Joyful Yoga (morning and afternoon): Carmen Baehr

Carmen, pictured here in yellow, is retuning for her second year at our retreat. She is much loved Anusara yoga teacher and student of John Friend.

Anusara means "flowing from the heart." It is a powerful hatha yoga system based on the Universal Principals of Alignment™.

Carmen has taught thousands of students and is renowned for her ability to be both playful and profound. Rabbi Korngold has been practicing yoga with Carmen for over six years and it is not uncommon for one of Carmen's teaching to be shared on an Adventure Rabbi trip.

Please bring your own mat. All levels welcome. No limit on class size.

2. Connective Yoga (Afternoon): Catherine Greener
Catherine Greener returns to our Rosh Hashana retreat to once again lead our afternoon Connective Yoga session. You won't want to miss Catherine's unique version of yoga, combining Judaism and yoga. Beginners welcome.

Program Description:
This hatha-based yoga session is for all ages and all levels of yoga. We will practice together and prepare for the new year, joining the breath and yoga postures to assist our retreat experiences. This session will include guided meditation, yoga postures and extended relaxation at the conclusion of the practice. Weather permitting, there may be an opportunity to integrate the outdoors into the session. Please wear comfortable clothes, and bring your own mat (not necessary if you don't own one!) Limted to 40 people. All levels welcome.

3. Watercolor Workshop: Sue Cable
Sue is back for year two leading our watercolor workshop. The art of water color can be used to slow our minds and allow us to truly focus on the grandeur that surrounds us. This meditative experience will help open us to the Rosh Hashanah experience. Open to artists of all levels, including those with no experience. Materials will be provided.

Sue is a talented watercolor artist who lives in Boulder Colorado. She is a regular at Adventure Rabbi events and truly understands the potency of celebrating Judaism outdoors. This is Sue's second year teaching our Watercolor Workshop. www.suecable.com

Program Description: Come incorporate the symbols of the Jewish New Year into art by painting visions of your past, changes for the future either through your abstract interpretation or through symbols in nature. If you are inclined to reflect on the year in an abstract way through colors and shapes this is a great way to do it. Or if you prefer to pick up leaves, pine cones, rocks or other items that you find through the day that symbolizes the Jewish New Year to you, bring them and we will work on painting those visions. A brief explanation of how to watercolor paint will be done at the beginning of class and specific questions and techniques will be addressed as requested.

No experience is necessary....but please come with an open mind and know that everyone is creative and can paint!

4. Rabbi's Afternoon Hike Program Description:
Join Rabbi Korngold, Jeff Finkelstein, Gwen Brodsky, Raj Seymour and other ARI staff on a beautiful hike along Glacier Creek. We'll meander in and out of the gorgeous golden aspen and majestic ponderosa pines, as we make our way along the creek. Our destination is Rocky Mountain Nation Park's Moraine Park, one of the main grazing ground for bugling elk.

Along the way we will stop for various "Adventure Rabbi" style learning stops. This will be a moderate hike, with very little elevation change, but we are at altitude. Please wear good hiking boots/ shoes, and bring water, rain gear and a snack. No size limit.

5. Mind Adventures -- When science Meets Religion: Intelligent Perspectives on Our World: Dr. Noah Finkelstein

Dr. Noah Finkelstein is a Professor of Physics Education Research in the Department of Physics at the University of Colorado, Boulder and a frequent participant on Adventure Rabbi trips. Noah currently serves as the President of the Adventure Rabbi Leadership Council. Noah is known for welcoming everyone's viewpoint, so please come prepared to share your unique ideas.

Program Description:
Why would it be that so many great scientists are Jews? Despite recent efforts to polarize our society into "religious" or "scientific" camps, these forms of understanding the world- science and religion- may be viewed as strong complements of one another. In fact, they offer many overlapping views of the way the world is and how it works. We examine what it means to engage in scientific or religious inquiry, explore the challenges of a world that truly excludes science or religion, and ground the broader questions with with specific examples such as: the creation story, miracles, visions of nature, or topics of your own selection.

Mind Adventures will include an easy walk and an engaging discussion. Please dress comfortably for walking/ strolling nd bring an an open mind and appetite for inquiry.

6. Words in the Wild (they’re lighter to schlep than backpacks): Shara Rutberg and Laurie Budgar:
Shara sells her words for a living so she can play outside with her dog Mordechai the Magnificent, her horse, Puppy, and anyone else who doesn't mind that she's sometimes muddy and often smells faintly of bugspray. She has a masters from the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism, but has been known to completely make stuff up as an advertising copywriter.

Laurie Budgar: This will be Laurie's fourth year on the Rosh Hashanah retreat. Laurie is managing editor at a Boulder-based magazine focused on the natural food industry. She has also written for Parenting, Psychology Today and The Denver Post.

Progam Description:
Let our spectacular surroundings, and some samples of the work of Jewish writers, inspire you to unleash your inner Saul Bellow – or Shel Silverstein – via a smattering of fun, painless exercises. We’ll let the power of the wilderness catalyze our power of expression and let writing outdoors – and about the outdoors – lead us outside the daily restrictions on our creativity. All abilities/ experience welcome. Spelling doesn’t count. Limited to 20

7. Thirty-mile Road Ride: James Brodsky and Richard Rabinoff:
The bike ride is limited to 15 participants. Please bring waterbottle/hydration pack, spare tube(s), on-bike toolkit, pump, and wear clothing appropriate for an early-fall ride in the mountains. Bike helmets and a road bike (skinny tires) are required.

James Brodsky:
James Brodsky is a Denver resident originally from New York, who has been cycling as a hobby since he was 13. He has been involved with Adventure Rabbi for the past three years, and has also led cycling, hiking, and skiing trips for the Mosaic Outdoor Mountain Club. James Brodsky is the main biking guide for the Adventure Rabbi program and leads three hard-core road bike rides throughout the summer. He also guides the peak trip with Jeff Finkelstein and Rabbi Korngold.

Richard Rabinoff:
Brought up in Brooklyn, Richard didn't start riding until he was in his teens. Since then he's become an avid rider putting in over 2,000 miles each season. When not on a road bike you can find Richard hiking, mt biking and travelling to National Parks for work.

Progam Description:
A 30+ road ride starting and finishing at the Y. Expect some traffic, hills and possibly some elk grazing in town! Bring your bike, helmet, water and clothing appropriate for a range of weather conditions. In case of rain or snow, this ride will be canceled but you will be welcome to switch to Yoga, Mind Adventures, or the Rabbi's hike, or join another program session that has not filled.

8. Mountain Biking: Mark Schwartz, Alison Rabinoff and Ben Baird (assistant guide)

Mark Schwartz:
Mark has been an avid mountain biker since he got his first off-road bike in 1990. Through all the wispy trails, rocky terrain, and mishaps to both himself and his bicycle, he thoroughly enjoys having the companionship and exhiliration of biking w/ friends (old & new). Mark has been in Boulder for 2 years now, and has been involved w/ the Adventure Rabbi prorgam since his arrival. He is grateful for the opportunity to co-lead the mountain-biking trip at the retreat this year.

Alison Rabinoff
This will be Alison's fourth year guiding for the Adventure Rabbi Rosh Hashanah retreat. Alison has vast experience as an outdoor leader and we are proud that she is a member of the Adventure Rabbi team. Alison also serves on our Leadership Council, helping to guide the vision of the organization. Alison is happily married and serves as our resident yenta, helping single people navigate the Jewish community.

Ben Baird
Ben is 13 and in 8th grade at the Watershed school. He loves mountain biking, especially single track in his beloved Crested Butte. He also spends time on his road bike, building a solar greenhouse, chasing his little brother and getting the news on the Daily Show.

Program Description:
This intermediate/ advanced bike ride is limited to 15 participants. You must have experience riding single track and riding at altitude.

Please bring water bottle/hydration pack, spare tube(s), on-bike toolkit, pump, and wear clothing appropriate for an early-fall ride in the mountains. Bike helmets and a mountain bike (knobby tires) are required. Bright colored clothing is recommended since the area we'll be riding in could be shared by wildlife and hunters.

We'll be riding the Pole Hill Road area which is about 20 minutes from the Y. The ride will be approximately 4-5 miles of intermediate/advanced single and double track with climbs, screaming downhills, some rocky patches and great views.

Sorry we couldn't find a more beginner/moderate level-friendly trail, but our trail options were limited.

We'll meet briefly during lunch to work out carpooling and load bikes.

In case of rain or snow, we will hike instead of ride or you will be welcome to switch to yoga, Mind Adventures, or the Rabbi's hike, or join another program session that has not filled.

9. Jewish Art Project: Simmy Haber:
Simmy is a writer and self-taught art quilter, with a passion for judaic fiber art, and creating custom quilts using photo transfers.

Simmy led a wonderful art project in 2006 and is back this year to once again incorporate an art project with introspection about the New year.

Program Description:
Rosh Hashanah is a time of renewal and a return to your Self. We'll make a fabric wall hanging inspired by your kavanah (intention) for the new year using words, embellishments (and a few surprises.) All skill levels welcome; no sewing experience needed (we won't be using a sewing machine.) NOTE: All children (under 16) who wish to attend must have an adult to help them with their project.

10. Kids Program for 9-12 year olds:
Outdoor Living Skills and Survival
During this unique program, led by YMCA outdoor program staff, we'll go on a hiking adventure and explore how to survive outdoors if you're lost. We'll discover how to gather water, build shelter and find our way with a compass. Sure to be a fun adventure!

Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes with good tread and bring a backpack with water and appropriate clothing to spend the majority of their time outdoor.

11. Kid's Program for 5-8 year olds:
Wildlife and Wild Living
During this fun program, led by YMCA outdoor program staff, we'll enjoy time outside and indoors learning about what animals and trees live here in Rocky Mountain National Park. As we hike, we'll explore some of the basics of how to get by in the wild. Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes with good tread and bring a backpack with water and appropriate clothing to spend the majority of their time outdoor

12. Craft and Design Center:
The center has an incredible Craft and Design Center which we are free to use. Pick from an assortment of high quality projects for children and/or adults. Paint a walking stick, make a challah plate out of tiles, tie-dye a shirt, bandana or pillow case (they supply the apparel) glaze ceramics, make a mosaic frame, bead a bracelet or necklace. Prices range from $2 - $35 per project. This will not be lead by an ARI instructor but there are Center staff at the Craft Center. For more details about available projects call 1.970.586.3341 ext 1132

13. Playground Time:
A few families with kids (including kids under 5) are planning to informally meet at the playground. This event will not be staffed by Adventure Rabbi guide, but rather will be an informal play gathering. No limit on size. All ages of kids with their parents or babysitters are welcome.

12. Free Time:
Or, consider doing none of the above and take some time to just sit quietly and read a book, go for a trail run, photograph the elk, take a nap or catch up with friend.

Rental Cars: All the national chains of rental cars are available from Denver Airport.

Shuttle Service:
Estes Park Shuttle,l www.estesparkshuttle.com 970-586-7700
$45 one way / $85 round trip
Leaves DIA: 8:30 am, 11:30 am, 2:30 pm, 5:30 pm
Leaves Estes Park: 6:30 am, 9:30 am, 12:30 pm, 3:30 pm

Car Service:
Estes Park Limousines & Cars www.estesparklimo.com 970-577-8687
$95 / 1 person for town car; $110 / 2 people; $130/ 3 people

1. You asked for less expensive lodge rooms. We found them for you!

2. You wanted to pay by the room, not per person. This YMCA will let us do that.

3. You wanted to return to registering for programs before the event, like we did in 2005. This year you can register online starting August 12, 2007.

4. You wanted everyone to be together for one outdoor program. This year we will all hike together to the first service.

5. You loved that we had a big lobby to all congregate in. We did too. Unfortunately, although this new site gives us the less expensive rooms, the ability to pay by room not person, and the closer location to Boulder, it does not have a big cozy lobby. We do have a really great big room that will be ours, but it is in a separate building.

5. You wanted to be closer to Boulder so you could drive up just for the day. This site is 45 minutes from Boulder. (Less from North Boulder!)

6. You wanted the orientation program that we did in 2005 (but not in 2006) to be back in the program for 2007. You felt this was an easy way to meet people right from the get go. It is back in the program.

7. You wanted a program choice for kids and parents together. This year, kids are welcome to come on any program with their parents, as long as it is something they can handle physically. And, we are looking for an instructor who will be willing to offering a program or project specifically for families. (Any staff suggestions?? Email me>>

8. You asked for some options for early risers. This year we've added an a optional yoga class before breakfast.

Do you have other suggestions? Let me know>>

Click here to register

click here to view brochure

 

Arrange lodging directly with the Center>>
Use group: 75025E Password: 15344