The new group of staff for the 2010 retreat season has arrived. We’ve just completed 3 days of orientation and training with them. I am delighted to report that they are an exceptional group of people who are friendly, helpful and enthusiastic. They are all looking forward to being of service to our visitors, both new and returning guests.

Among our seasonal staff this year we have a private pilot who is also an ordained minister; a massage therapist who winters in Jamaica; a hip hop harpist; a party-in-the-box, spiritually creative explorer; an artist who paints super heroes; a guitarist; and an outdoor enthusiast.

Also, new to the Menla team is the addition of our caretaker Henry. Henry is an iron man triathlete. He has participated in over a dozen competitions. No maintenance task is too big or too small for him to handle.

This week we kick-off our retreat season with both an in-house, Tibet House US sponsored program and a rental group. Tibet House US/ Menla is hosting John Campbell, Richard Freeman & Robert Thurman for Buddha and the Yogis.

It is not too late to register for this program if you live in the Catskill region and would like to commute. There may still be a few beds remaining as well, so call to inquire.

The North West Bronx Community & Clergy Coalition is here for a gathering of social justice groups in New York State. Some of the organizations represented are Jobs with Justice, New York Immigration Coalition & Citizen Action.

Looking forward to meeting new friends and seeing returning ones this season!

Happy Spring!

For information regarding commuter rates please call (845) 688-6897.

Tania Robyn Cyrlin, Manager of Administration and Operations 4/14/10