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Kosher Surfing Camp

Kosher Vacation
Beekbergen
Holland
From July 15, 2010

Summer Vacation
Algarve, Portugal
July 28 - Aug 28

Bulgaria & Romania
August 2, 2010

Canadian Rockies Adventure
August 3, 2010

Croatia, Slovenia & Montenegro
August 3, 2010

African Safari
August 5, 2010

Alaska & Canadian Rockies
August 5, 2010

Andalusia, Spain
August 5, 2010

Exotic Morocco
August 8, 2010

Paris & Southern France
August 8, 2010

Beautiful Scandinavia

August 8, 2010

France, Switzerland & Italy
Family Tour
August 9, 2010

Moscow & St. Petersburg
August 10, 2010

Costa Rica Discovery
August 15, 2010

Enchanting Italy
August 15, 2010

Italy
August 16, 2010

Ireland & Scotland
August 16, 2010

Jewish Retreat
Reston, VA
AUG 17-22, 2010

Magnificent Italy
August 22, 2010

African Safari
August 23, 2010

Northern Spain Expedition
August 23, 2010

Sukkot in Costa Rica
September 21, 2010

Sukkot, Dan Caesarea
Israel
September 22, 2010

Sukkot, Hacienda Forest View
Maalot Tarshiha
Israel
September 22, 2010

Classic China & Hong Kong
October 4, 2010

Morocco
October 4, 2010

China: In the Footsteps of the Jews
October 5, 2010

Thailand
... River Kwai
October 5, 2010

Ecuador, Galapagos & Peru
October 6, 2010

Andalusia, Spain
October 7, 2010

Exotic Turkey
October 10, 2010

Iberian Fiesta
October 10, 2010

Moroccan Encounter
October 10, 2010

Japan & Korea
October 11, 2010

Kosher Irish Experience
October 11, 2010

Jewish Spain: Madrid & Andalusia
October 12, 2010

China & Hong Kong
October 13, 2010

Amalfi Coast, Italy
October 15, 2010

Japan: Tradition & Modernity
October 17, 2010

Taste of Tuscany
October 22, 2010

Glorious Portugal
October 26, 2010

China & Hong Kong
November 3, 2010

Andalusia, Spain
November 4, 2010

Tunisia & Rome
November 14, 2010

Australia & New Zealand
November 22, 2010

Vietnam & Cambodia
November 29, 2010

Morocco
December 6, 2010

Winter Holiday
Costa Rica
December 21, 2010

Australia & New Zealand
January 31, 2011

Ethiopia
February 6, 2011

Ecuador, Galapagos & Peru
February 9, 2011

Japan: Tradition & Modernity
March 27, 2011

Jewish Spain: Madrid & Andalusia
May 17, 2011

China: In the Footsteps of the Jews
May 17, 2011

Morocco
June 13, 2011

Moscow & St. Petersburg
June 14, 2011

Ecuador, Galapagos & Peru
June 15, 2011

Alaska & Canadian Rockies
June 16, 2011

Alaska & Canadian Rockies

June 30, 2011

Iceland & Greenland
July 3, 2011

Moscow & St. Petersburg
July 5, 2011

Alaska & Canadian Rockies
August 11, 2011

USA East Coast Family Tour
August 11, 2011

Beautiful Scandinavia
August 14, 2011

France, Switzerland & Italy
Family Tour
August 15, 2011

Vietnam & Cambodia
August 15, 2011

China: In the Footsteps of the Jews
August 16, 2011

Croatia, Slovenia & Montenegro
August 16, 2011

Japan: Tradition & Modernity
August 21, 2011

Moscow & St. Petersburg
September 6, 2011

Jewish Spain: Madrid & Andalusia
September 6, 2011

Morocco
September 12, 2011

Ecuador, Galapagos & Peru
November 9, 2011

Australia & New Zealand
November 14, 2011

Morocco
November 14, 2011

Vietnam & Cambodia
November 14, 2011

 
The 5th Annual National Jewish Retreat
A Chabad Program for All!!!

August 17 - 22, 2010


Hyatt Regency, Reston, VA
 
 
About The Retreat
Let the power of Jewish thinking enrich your life. Spend five days of learning and discovery with master Torah teachers. Explore new ideas and expand your horizons in an open, embracing environment. Relax, reflect, and refresh your spirit in a luxurious setting. Meet new friends and experience meaningful Jewish living.
Brought to you by
THE ROHR JEWISH LEARNING INSTITUTE
A Division of Merkos L’Inyonei ChinuchWelcome
 
Dear Friend,
What's your idea of the ideal Jewish vacation? Do you like to give your mind a workout? Are you looking for inspiration and stories that warm the heart? Are you looking for hands-on learning and practical ideas to try at home? Or building relationships with people you really like?

We know that people come to a retreat for different reasons, and we want to make it easy for you to create the perfect experience. That’s why we’ve classified our sessions this year in ways that let you nurture yourself in a variety of ways.
We’ve tagged sessions that are designed to feed your mind with a brain icon. Some of these sessions are text-based. Others explore modern application of Jewish law. But all of them are designed to stretch your thinking in creative and exciting ways.
Sessions designed to stir your emotions have a heart icon. These will make you laugh and cry, fire your soul, and move your spirit. They’re about prayer, repentance, love, and loss. And we will provide the human wisdom and compassion that helps you to make sense of your inner world.
The practical and experiential sessions have a hand icon. These are the how-tos of Jewish life. Make challah, see how a mezuzah is written, learn about the daily prayers, or traditional Friday night dinner. These sessions will provide you with skills and information that you can take home.
Finally, we’ve tagged sessions on personal interaction with an ear . Share your challenges in trying to increase your Jewish involvement. Sing and dance together at a concert. Spend an evening talking with one of our scholars. Share your experiences, and build new friendships.
We hope this collection of program highlights will pique your interest and entice you to explore different ways to nourish your soul.
 
Yours in Jewish Learning,
Rabbi Hesh Epstein, Chairman | Rabbi Yoni Katz, Director
 
These are the 2009 Lectures - We will update the list soon.
Women in the Synagogue
Mrs. Rivkah Slonim
Legal, historical and sociological aspects of issues such as the mechitzah (divider used during prayer), minyan, Torah reading, etc.
 
A Tale of Two Souls: Exploring the Jewish Psyche Through the Lens of Tanya
Rabbi Yosef Y. Jacobson
Within the soul—the essence of man—is a dichotomy that underlies all of life’s struggles and triumphs. An exploration of the Tanya model of the two souls.
Total Immersion: Thoughts on Mikvah From the Deep
Mrs. Rivkah Slonim
Mrs. Slonim addresses the many misconceptions that shroud the laws of mikvah and family relations, and in a frank manner discusses how this system affects marriage and intimacy.
   
 
 
Wednesday
It’s My Body
Rabbi Shlomo Yaffe
Torah guidance concerning procedures ranging from beautification to mutilation: what can and cannot be
done for cosmetic purposes, and the obligations to preserve health.
 
Tefillin: Decoding Black Boxes
Rabbi Yosef Y. Jacobson
How tefillin connect your head, your heart, and your hand, synchronizing them so they may work in a single coordinated purpose.
The Write Words: A Torah-Inspired Writing Workshop for Women
Mrs. Sara Esther Crispe
“I don’t know what I think until I see what I write . . . .” E.M. Forster. Bring a journal and pen. Through Torah and writing, think differently about yourself
and the world.
 
Who Was A Jew?
Dr. Lawrence Schiffman
Halachah, as applied by various groups: Samaritans, Christians, Falashas, Karaites, and some modern Jews, who have followed standards different from
the Jewish tradition.
Redeeming the New World Economy: The Kabbalah of Creative Destruction, Game Theory, and the Power of Innovation
Rabbi Asher Crispe
Recent developments in technology illuminate new dimensions of our economy, as part and parcel of age-old Jewish mystical insights into the Messianic era.
 
Criminal Confessions and Torture: Moral and Ethical Dilemmas in Talmudic and Modern Law
Rabbi Shlomo Yaffe and Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal
As terror threats loom, we face difficult choices regarding torture and force in our justice system. How do U.S. and Jewish law approach these tough
questions?
Rachel, Leah and Jacob: a Struggle of Cosmic Forces
Mrs. Rivkah Slonim
This text-based, quick-paced study uncovers the profound strata of meaning within one of the most
enigmatic stories in the Bible.
 
Reincarnation and Remediation: The Kabbalah of the Digital Age, Virtual Reality and Tele-technologies
Rabbi Asher Crispe
Probing the Jewish roots of transpersonal psychology, we are taken above and beyond ourselves in the continual recasting of the soul
in new bodies, through the process known as gilgulim or reincarnation.
Talmud with Training Wheels
Always wanted to study a page of Talmud? Didn’t know how to start? Let a member of our staff gently guide you, and you’ll be on your way!
 
Hike and Discussion: Girl Gone Frum: The Challenges and Rewards of the Baal Teshuvah
Mrs. Sara Esther Crispe
This workshop will provide an opportunity to learn to openly deal with non-Jewish family and friends, and non observant siblings, parents, and spouses.
Archaeology and the Dead Sea Scrolls
Dr. Lawrence Schiffman
Lecture and slide show about the Dead Sea Scrolls and the archaeology of Qumrun, addressing these discoveries’ impact on understanding Judaism and
Christianity.
 
Art and Soul
Mr. Michoel Muchnik
Lecture/exhibition of paintings, lithographs, and bas-relief mosaics. Muchnik imaginatively and joyfully depicts traditional and mystical Jewish
themes.
King David and the Psalms
Rabbi Chaim Block
Relive the trials and triumphs of King David, and learn why our people have turned to the Psalms for solace and strength throughout the ages.
   
 
 
Thursday
George Washington’s Correspondence with the Jews of Newport
Professor Jonathan Sarna
An examination of a celebrated letter to Washington from Newport, R.I.’s congregation, now known as Touro Synagogue, and his oft-quoted reply, both of
timeless importance.
 
The Virtue of Sin
Rabbi Chaim Block
Rabbi Block’s inspirational, heartwarming stories will demonstrate how repentance, renewal, and redemption can heal a broken past.
Monkey Business: Kabbalah and Evolution
Rabbi Asher Crispe
Judaism vs. science: an exploration of the age of the universe, the origin of human beings, and how the Jewish mystical tradition anticipates modern
evolutionary biology.
 
How Matzah Became Square: The Manischewitz Story
Professor Jonathan Sarna
Learn the history of matzah in America, from colonial synagogue ovens, to the twentieth century, when
the Manischewitz family revolutionized the matzah industry.
Hike and Meditation
Mrs. Shimona Tzukernik
The mystics often sought natural settings for meditation on their relationship with G-d. A hike to
invigorate you, setting a mood for relaxed communication and honest reflection.
 
Here Comes the Judge: Rabbis Tackle Real Cases
Rabbi Yona Reiss and Rabbi Shlomo Yaffe
Experience a modern-day Beit Din: cases are presented, analyzed, and adjudicated within the framework of Halachah. Watch the panel of judges
reach a verdict and resolution.
Halachic Ramifications of 9/11
Rabbi Yona Reiss
Heart-rending decisions that came before the rabbinical court after 9/11 demonstrate how Jewish law offers guidance in even the most unthinkable of circumstances.
 
Healthcare Debate
Rabbi Shlomo Yaffe
An examination of Jewish legal writings on the right to medical care, comparing them to recent legislation
in the U.S., and viewing Jewish law as a model for healthcare reform.
An Old Faith in the New World: 355 Years of American Judaism
Professor Jonathan Sarna
A survey tracing the development of American Judaism from its dawn in 1654 to the present day, pointing out the elements that have made it unique.
 
Prayer
Rabbi Yosef Y. Jacobson
What’s the point of prayer? Can a sinner pray to
G-d? Must I pray in Hebrew? Why must I say the words? Where do all our prayers go?
The Comedy of Marriage
Rabbi Yosef Y. Jacobson
Some say that G-d’s biggest joke was having men marry women. In this humorous but practical talk, Rabbi Jacobson provides down-to-earth tips
for happiness in marriage.
 
Why Me, G-d: Where Is G-d When It Hurts?
Rabbi Yosef Y. Jacobson
We may never comprehend G-d. But we should know that G-d, Who understands the purpose of
pain, feels the intensity of our suffering: every tear we shed becomes His.
Fish, Fins, and Scales: What is Kosher?
Rabbi Yosef Y. Jacobson
Why do Jews seem to place so much emphasis on food? This workshop will bring the discussion of diet— both physical and spiritual—to a whole new level.
 
Body Rhythms: A Mystical Understanding of Mikvah
Mrs. Sara Esther Crispe
The woman’s cycle mirrors larger cycles, recapitulating the journey of the Jewish people from Egypt to Sinai, and providing a powerful paradigm for our lives and relationships.
Quill and Ink: A Hands-On Exploration
of the Jewish Scribal Arts

Rabbi Moshe Grossbaum
See first-hand the process by which Torah scrolls, mezuzot, and tefillin scrolls are prepared, as well as
experiencing writing with the feather on parchment.
 
Guest Speaker
U.S. Senator Joseph Lieberman
Senator Lieberman addresses the retreat on the challenges and the sometimes humorous and often
gripping events, during many years of public service as a proud practicing Jew.
 
Avraham Fried in Concert
Join us for an unforgettable mix of traditional and modern Jewish music with Chassidic superstar Avraham Fried. This concert is sure to be a highlight of your stay!
 
 
Friday
Helpmates, Harlots, and Heroines: Deconstructing Biblical Stereotypes
Mrs. Shimona Tzukernik
Might the women of the Bible model how we might take advantage of the bold choices available to us? An open exploration of gender that crosses the generations.
 
Up, Up and Oy Vey!
How Jewish History, Culture, and Values Shaped the Comic Book Superhero

Rabbi Simcha Weinstein
A fascinating look at how the early comic book creators—almost all Jewish children of immigrants— depicted Superheroes who fought for truth, justice, and the American Way.
Bible Criticism: Critiquing the Critics
Rabbi Dr. J. Immanuel Schochet
Who wrote the Torah? How do we deal with apparent contradictions and inconsistencies which
“academia” claims to “discover” in the Torah?
 
Challah Baking with the Rebbetzins
Rebbetzins Chavi Epstein and Chaya Teldon
A hands-on, elbow-deep exercise in traditional challah—with perhaps a new “twist” or two added in for good measure. Your own secret methods or ingredients are welcome.
Do-It-Yourself Shabbat Dinner
A practical workshop, with warmth and humor: a practice run of this weekly ritual that will help you
understand what it all means.
 
. Growth Through Coping with Personal Challenges
Rabbi and Mrs. Tuvia Teldon and Rabbi Dovid Eliezrie
How can we learn to deal with overwhelming challenges? How can we find the resilience to
emerge whole? Explore strategies for surviving and thriving in the face of hardship.
1+1=1
Mrs. Shimona Tzukernik
Reveal the underlying connection you share with others and celebrate diversity, as you learn to love others like yourself.
 
Shabbat: An Oasis in Time
Rabbi Manis Friedman
Explore the mystery of Shabbat— a pinnacle in time, the climax of our week, and the source of sustenance and inspiration—through the eyes of our Kabbalists and mystics.
The Dynamics of Prayer
Rabbi Dr. J. Immanuel Schochet
What purpose does prayer serve? Why pray to an all-knowing G-d? How dare we think that we could
change G-d’s Will and the situations guided by Divine Providence?
 
Why Are Americans Unhappy?
Rabbi Manis Friedman
The pursuit of happiness is often a treadmill of misery, running but getting nowhere. Can we step
down and change our objective, and find that elusive sense of contentment?
Soul Flames
Mrs. Shimona Tzukernik
A unique workshop exploring the Shabbat candles and their correspondence to the soul, based on the teachings of Kabbalah.
 
A Practical Workshop on Shabbat Service
Don’t be a stranger in the synagogue! This session will give you the opportunity to feel at home with the Shabbat service and understand its structure and significance.
 
 
Shabbat
Insights into the Weekly Torah Portion
Mrs. Shimona Tzukernik and Rabbi Dr. J. Immanuel Schochet
Drawing on the teachings of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, this text-based class will provide an in-depth look at
the portion of Re’eh.
 
A Gathering of Souls—
The Farbrengen

An informal gathering meant to create feelings of warmth and inspiration. Insightful thoughts and
powerful stories are shared, interspersed with spirited singing. (An occasional “L’Chaim!” often adds to the mood.)
Men’s Farbrengen led by Rabbi Dr. J. Immanuel Schochet
Women’s Farbrengen led by Rabbi Manis Friedman
Shabbat Service for Beginners
Rabbi Manis Friedman
Designed for those who do not usually attend Shabbat morning services, this informal session is
designed to orient you to the structure and themes of the Shabbat prayers.
 
Warning: Religion May Be Harmful To Your Health
Rabbi Manis Friedman
Is religion useful or harmful in a modern world? Given the violence that stains the history of religion, we need to reexamine the role of religion in today’s society.
Souls, Afterlife and Reincarnation
Rabbi Dr. J. Immanuel Schochet
Life on earth is relatively short—a means toward achieving a greater end: true life in the hereafter.
What are the Jewish concepts of heaven, hell, and reincarnation?
 
.
 
 
Sunday
Crossfire Panel Discussion
Rabbis Yisroel Deren, Dovid Eliezrie, Manis Friedman, J. Immanuel Schochet
You’ve got questions; they’ve got answers! You’re sure to enjoy this annual forum for quick-thinking
analysis and debate. No subject too controversial, no challenge shirked.
 
The Waters that Keep the Fires Burning
Mrs. Shimona Tzukernik
This workshop explores dynamics around the marital relationship, incorporating critical analysis of a
Biblical text, drawing, writing, and dialogue.
E Pluribus Unum?
Rabbi Dr. J. Immanuel Schochet
Is it realistic for us to expect a society that equally upholds the values of unity and pluralism, or do these values contradict?
 
.
 
 
 
Fine Dining
The National Jewish Retreat is pleased to partner with Above & Beyond Caterers to create an experience that will tantalize body and soul.

With delicious, eclectic, and contemporary menu items and unique presentations, Above & Beyond has become the exclusive Kosher caterers to the Waldorf Astoria, the French Consulate, the Helmsley Palace, and now the National Jewish Retreat.

The entire menu, including all baked goods, will be prepared fresh daily on premises. We will do our utmost to accommodate guests with special dietary requirements.

We look forward to hosting you this summer.

 
 
2010 Pricing & Information
Program
Adults
Teens
13 - 17
Child
4 - 12
Toddler
2-3
Infant
Under 2
Full Retreat August 17 - 22
Per person Double Occupancy
Starts Tuesday, August 17 at 2pm
Ends Sunday, August 22 at 2 pm

3rd or 4th in a room
$1,299.99



$899.99
$1,099.99



$649.99
$929.99



$529.99
n/a



$399.99
n/a



Free
Single Occupancy
$1,699.99
$1,449.99
$1,329.99
n/a
n/a
Weekend Retreat August 19 - 22
Per person Double Occupancy
Starts Thursday, August 19 at 2pm
Ends Sunday, August 22 at 2 pm

3rd or 4th in a room
$854.99



$599.99
$704.99



$449.99
$604.99



$349.99
n/a



$219.99
n/a



Free
Single Occupancy
$1,109.99
$959.99
$859.99
n/a
n/a
 
Prices include accommodations.
No Saturday checkout.
 
 
National Jewish Retreat Camp Gan Israel
The National Jewish Retreat offers an exciting children’s recreational program for children ages 3–12. Part of the international network of Camp Gan Israel summer camps, our warm and friendly staff will provide children with a wonderful array of sports, activities, and trips. Our specially trained counselors will also incorporate Jewish themes into the daily program so that the children can share the joy of learning that marks the retreat.
Director: Mrs. Shaina Mintz
Camp Hours* : 9:00–3:30 | After Camp: 3:30–5:00
*Night activities will be offered as well.
Babysitting available upon request
(separate fee)
 
 
 
 
 
909-984-2761
Toll Free (USA Only) 800-893-5617
CST 2012669-10
California Department of Insurance License Number: 0B45777
Last updated: May 5, 2010

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