Big Hit at Former Kutz Camp Property
WARWICK & FLORIDA, NY – On Sunday, September 17, the Temple Beth Shalom community and its friends experienced a truly magical day. The second-day Rosh HaShana celebration took an exciting turn as it ventured beyond the walls of the sanctuary, setting the stage for a unique experience. The event unfolded at the scenic Lakeside Pavilion on the former Kutz Camp grounds, now known as Warwick’s newest park, Mountain Lake Park. This departure from tradition was suggested by Rabbi Rebecca Shinder with the hope of reinvigorating attendance at second-day Rosh HaShana services and engaging the broader community.
The turnout and the “ruach” (spirit) for this Rosh HaShana 5784 celebration without walls exceeded our expectations. So many new faces, so many new connections, so many welcoming stalwarts and regulars to share our joy.
“Just as I imagined,” said Rabbi Shinder, “people who hadn’t ever crossed the threshold of our sanctuary came in droves to this informal holiday experience.”
By some estimates, at least a third of the attendees were not (yet) TBS members. But who knows? This sort of nontraditional event could move them to join, for the feeling of being among other Jews, and celebrating life, nature, and our shared heritage has a strong pull.
IN TOUCH WITH NATURE
As Rabbi led services along with Scott Dunn, as cantor, both reminisced about the significance of the Kutz property in their lives. It was there that they joined so many other Jews in song, prayer, camaraderie, and loving friendships over many years. For co-president Wendy Cedar, who essentially grew up on the property, tagging along with her mother, Karen Cooper, who worked at Kutz for more than 35 years, the memories were rich and full.
The stunning backdrop of the lake was a touchstone for everyone. Leaning over the ledge of the Pavilion, we tossed bits of bread as we observed Taschlich – the thought-provoking yet joyful practice of casting bits of bread, as a substitution for our sins, onto moving waters as we contemplate our deeds of the past year. In those waters we saw two giant snapping turtles, yet another reminder of the continuum of time. It is said that turtles signify our bond to Mother Earth and they instill in us a desire to protect the environment.
Bringing this connection into sharp focus, all were thrilled as Jeff Hannes blew the shofar. Even Jackson, the dog who attended along with his humans, listened in awe.
A PHENOMENAL GATHERING
The service, accompanied by Andy Hannes on the piano and a speaker system transported from their Florida base, was a harmonious blend of prayer and chant. Attendees enjoyed a picnic-style meal, sharing sandwiches, sides, desserts, and snacks, fostering connections with both old and new friends.
Rabbi Shinder emphasized, “There are a lot of hidden Yidden in Orange County.” Temple Beth Shalom’s message of inclusivity was front and center at the Pavilion at Mountain Lake, where attendees enjoyed music, poetry, shofar blasts, crafts, and community.
The event received partial funding from a generous grant from the Jewish Federation of Greater Orange County, with many temple members contributing their time and effort to make it a success.
Temple Beth Shalom extends a warm welcome to interfaith, bi-racial, and non-heteronormative families, embracing diversity within its community. Located in Florida, NY, this close-knit synagogue is committed to building a family of families.
MORE TO COME
The congregation will return to the sanctuary for Yom Kippur prayers but will once again embrace nature for Sukkot Under the Stars Shabbat on Friday, September 29th, on the temple lawn. The evening will begin with Sukkah decoration at 6:30, followed by another informal and musical service, and an opportunity for attendees to bring their desserts to share.
For more information, please contact Temple Beth Shalom at tbs-ny@optimum.net or visit their website at www.tbsny.org or call 845-651-7817.
