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Steamboat Springs' Jewish Congregation

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Mike and Michelle Osterman have generously invited members of our congregation to their home to meet Shmuel Rifman on Saturday, February 11^th, from 5:00-6:30 p.m. Their address is 815 Fox Lane (off Anglers Drive).  Wine and light hors d’oeuvres will be served.  The following is a bio on Mr. Rifman:  

Shmuel Rifman (Shmulik) chairs the Ramat Negev Regional Council and the Israeli Regional Councils Association. He is among many leaders who are building the Negev region of Israel. For over 18 years, Rifman has stood at the helm of the Ramat Negev Regional Council, and in this capacity and others, has forged strong ties with Jewish communities throughout the world, especially Colorado. His efforts have brought visitors and generous donations to the Negev from many Coloradoans as well as others around the world. He has initiated projects which have changed, beyond recognition, the face of many communities in Israel's largest regional council.

Rifman is a leading advocate for strengthening Negev development and rural settlement in Israel. He has led numerous public endeavors to encourage investments in the Negev as well as to strengthen and augment existing settlements while establishing new communities in the south.

Through its partnership with Colorado which was established in 2000, Ramat Negev receives donations to help fund many of its most critical programs. With the help of Federation donors, Rifman and many other pioneers are helping to turn the Negev into the next great place to live.

Rabbi Steve feels has met “Shmulik”, and feels we should take this opportunity to meet him. “He is a wonderful gentleman with deep connections both in the Negev region of Israel and in relationships with many here in Colorado.  He is keeping the highest Zionist ideals alive in the Negev desert (not far from Beersheva), revitalizing land and human communities and inspiring young people in ecological and altruistic ways.  You won't meet a more ‘salt of the earth’ Israeli.”

My Har Mishpacha

• From the beginning when I first moved here more than 15 years ago I somehow found my way to the "Jewish" group in Steamboat.  I remember my first Har Mish event - it was a get together in someone's back yard and very casual.  It was nice to know that there were in fact Jews in Steamboat and that when, over the years, I couldn't be with my own family for the holidays there was this "mountain family" to rely on.  There have been several instances when members of Har Mish have stepped up and really been a great support to me and my family.  That's what this congregation is about - supporting and encouraging each other and being there in good times and bad - just like a real family.  I am very glad to be a part of this organization and to have the opportunity to raise my children in a loving and supportive Jewish environment that gives true meaning to their being Jewish.   J.W.

• We bought our condo in Steamboat because we enjoyed hiking and beautiful scenery.  But then we learned of a Jewish commnity here!  Who knew?  Who could imagine, in this small mountain town, a group of dedicated people, working hard to promote yiddishkit !  Who care about keeping Judaism alive for themselves, their children, and grandchildren?  Bar Mitzvahs, Bat Mitzvahs abound.  It is an constant inspiration for us, and one bonus is that is allows us to stay in Steamboat over the holidays and see the change of seasons, the beautiful trees, the cooler weather. And the big bonus is the people, the friends we have made through Har Mishpacha!  We treasure and value this wonderful connection and hope to enjoy and be inspired for many years to come.  W.R.

• Har Mishpacha has become my congregation.  I have shared high holidays, Purim and Hanukkah celebrations, and simple Friday night services with members of the community for almost 20 years.  When I moved to Steamboat, the first high holiday service I attended was held at a member's home.  There were 15 of us present.  We passed a book around the circle and took turns leading and participating in the service.  Though we have grown in number, the same sense of a small and compassionate community still exists.  Every member of Har Mishpacha chooses to participate in some way in Jewish life.  In a bigger city, it would be easy to pay dues at a temple and simply arrive for services.  Here, one does not just arrive, one plans, bakes, sets up, and takes down.  It takes effort and a strong sense of spirit to be Jewish in Steamboat.  I feel honored to be in congregation with such a willing and dedicated group of families.  C.R. 

• I see Har Mishpacha as a grass root community held together by the work of those who wish to see a Jewish community thrive in Steamboat.  The reward has been an organization that supports religious, cultural and social needs of Jews in Steamboat.  Because we are small and we are what we put into it, we have been able to have anyone who wants to succeed, do so.  We have seen talent in teaching, singing, meditation, cooking and more from members past, present and part time residents.  It has been an accepting, caring organization.  I have felt a part of a group of people willing to make a difference.  It has been a place our family has been able to come together for our spiritual needs on an individual, family and group level.   R.I.

• Har is the gift that keeps on giving. First, Har has created a spiritual Jewish connection within me that never existed. Growing up as a conservative Jew I always felt the connection traditionally to my Jewish roots but never had a spiritual connection to Judaism. Second it has brought me the love, support and friendship of the most amazing women/soul sisters in my life. Thirdly, Har has been the bridge to teaching and sharing the gifts of Judaism with my daughter. In such a small unique town so far removed from the 'real world' and my own family having the Har Jewish community gives me a sense of place.  S. M.

• Just the fact that our congregation exists allowed me to move my family to this wonderful town and live life to the fullest.  I do not feel that I am on an island and do know that a support system of spirituality is available to us all. My family's spiritual journey and Jewish identity is always developing and will continue under your guidance.  D.Z.

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