by COLlive reporter
Flagstaff, Arizona, is famous as the gateway to the magnificent Grand Canyon. Now, it boasts another great attraction for visitors: Kosher Canyon, under the auspices of Chabad of Flagstaff.
This Pesach, Kosher Canyon brought Jewish families of all levels of observance together for a spectacular getaway retreat at Chabad’s impressive facility, the Molly Blank Jewish Community Center.
From the Sedarim to the Moshiach Seudah, participants bonded over amazing food, top-notch entertainment, and inspiring talks and shiurim, all in a relaxed and intimate setting, without the pressure or exorbitant expense of hotel programs
In the words of Allison Meyer, “I thought going to Kosher Canyon was simply a way to escape making Pesach, but this retreat was so much more. Were the food, facility, and entertainment great? Absolutely! The inspiration was palpable, and I know everyone who came was changed for the better!”
Guests enjoyed beautiful accommodations either at Chabad, or at nearby townhouses or hotels. Meal after meal, Chef Abie Bilgoray wowed the guests with freshly prepared gourmet meals featuring traditional delicacies and artfully curated dishes.
Haim and Yochana Modiano came all the way from Israel to Kosher Canyon. “We really needed to get away for Pesach, and this was the place! We were renewed and rejuvenated spiritually, and wished we could stay longer!”
The first days ended on a high note with a musical havdalah, followed by nightly Chol Hamoed entertainment by the Mother Road Trio, folksinger Mordy Kurtz of the Rogers Park Band, and jazz pianist Doniel Berry. Led by Alan Dorfman, Director of Family Fun, parents and children were treated to a DJ night, photo booth, and ice cream bar.
Guests were uplifted by insightful talks by Rabbi Moshe Moscowitz, Senior Rabbinical Coordinator at the cRc in Illinois; Rucheli Berry, a Certified Positive Psychology Practitioner; and Chabad of Flagstaff directors Rabbi Dovie and Chaya Shapiro.
“We have been to many programs in the past, and there is just so much expectation,” said Kurtz, who lives in Hillside, New Jersey. “Here, we felt as relaxed as if we were home. There was no compromise on the service, the menu, the accommodations, and entertainment. The Chabad House itself is simply a work of art – we could’ve spent all day on the grounds just enjoying the view and the weather. Experiencing Yomtov with Chabad and the rabbi and his family left a big impression on us.”
VIDEO:
Kosher Canyon is under the leadership of the Shapiros, who have grown Chabad of Flagstaff from its modest beginnings in 2006 to a multi-faceted, full-fledged operation based in a beautiful center awarded for its architectural design. They are held in high regard by all sectors of the Flagstaff community for the dedication and compassion they display to people of all backgrounds and affiliations. With their friendly, welcoming approach, the Shapiros have created a warm and cohesive Jewish community in Northern Arizona.
“We are so grateful for the success of our Pesach retreat,” said Rabbi Shapiro. “The unity on display among the guests of varied backgrounds was particularly inspiring to us.”
The Shapiros are already planning a memorable three-day retreat for Shavuos at Kosher Canyon. For more, visit www.thekoshercanyon.com or call 928-255-5756.