Parashat Va’etchanan
Shabbat times (Overland Park): Candlelighting: 7:53 p.m. Havdalah: 8:52 p.m.
KU Chabad building new 10,000-square-foot facility
For nearly two decades, the KU Chabad House has been a small converted duplex. Now, a new, 10,000-square-foot, $6 million Chabad House will cater to the growing Jewish student population at KU.
The new Chabad House will be constructed at the same site on 19th Street in Lawrence, Kansas. KU Chabad acquired the property next door, providing it space to build a large facility to accommodate the growing number of Jewish attendees at Chabad events.
“Since Oct. 7, students have found it more challenging than ever to be proudly Jewish on campus,” Rabbi Zalman Tiechtel said. “But they’ve also felt the urge to connect with their Jewish sisters and brothers more than ever.”
Rabbi Zalman and Nechama Tiechtel, who began KU Chabad 18 years
ago, said that the heightened sense of connection and community has resulted in overflow crowds in the duplex, but “what it lacked in square feet, it made up for in warmth.” But the space simply wasn’t big enough.
The new Chabad House will remedy this issue. While the size might imply an institution, the Tiechtels said that they are going to great pains to preserve the “home-away-from-home” feeling that Jewhawks — their nickname for Jewish KU students — have come to rely upon in the past two decades.
A large lounge area will feature
prominently in the new building, intended to give students space to congregate and be Jewish without fear of judgment or antisemitism. A large dining hall will be the setting for Shabbat dinners and will be able to seat overflow crowds of well over 100 people for Passover Seders, High Holiday meals and other large events.
“In the face of the hatred we have seen and experienced, Jewish students have told us over and over that what they want is more opportunities for connection, for engagement, for
See page 12
Amid rising campus antisemitism, KU’s DEIB program works to support KU Jewish community
By Kevin Deutsch Special to The Chronicle
Editor’s note: This is the second of a two-part series about the University of Kansas’ Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) supporting the school’s Jewish students, facultyandcommunity.
Hamas’ atrocities on Oct. 7 and the ensuing war in Gaza set off widespread anti-Israel protests on U.S. college campuses, some of which featured overt antisemitism and vandalism aimed at Jewish students, including at KU. Several protesters have been arrest-
ed at the university amid demonstrations against the war.
Members of the campus Jewish community said they’ve been impacted by anti-Israel student walkouts, the posting of anti-Israel banners, antisemitic rhetoric by protesters, an antisemitic email sent to a faculty member, and an increased need for KU Police Department officers at
some events.
Public safety concerns have impacted Jewish students’ studies at KU as well: At the end of 2022, the DEIB office backed the KU Jewish Studies Program’s relocation to a more secure place on campus over safety concerns. DEIB supported the relocation with
money from its budget, according to Dr. Rami Zeedan, acting director of KU’s Jewish Studies Program.
“It was a small thing but made a huge difference,” said Dr. David Slusky, current president of the Jewish Faculty and Staff Council (JFSC).
A rendering of the upcoming 10,000-square-foot KU Chabad House.
More than 250 people gathered at the University of Kansas to attend a vigil in support of Israel after the Oct. 7 terror attacks and subsequent war against Hamas on Oct. 10, 2023.
Bring Them Home Now
Jewish community leader
Bill Lowenstein dead at 97
By The Chronicle staff
Bill Lowenstein (z’l), a wellknown and widely-respected leader and funder in the Kansas City Jewish community, died on July 30 at age 97.
Lowenstein served as president of the Jewish Community Foundation from 1991 to 1994, was a lifetime member of The Temple, Congregation B’nai Jehudah and a founding member of Congregation Beth Torah. He also served as chairman/trustee of the Tranin Fund, a trustee for the Lowenstein Brothers Foundation and a trustee of the Lowenstein Family Supporting Foundation.
Lowenstein held a deep belief in the value of the Jewish camping experience for children, and he worked closely with others to ensure that experience was made possible for many. One of those he worked with was former Jewish Federation associate executive director Alan Edelman, who was first hired in the early 1980s as the director of the Jewish Federation’s Jewish Education Council.
“We wanted to encourage more kids to take advantage of informal educational experiences and to be in a position to say that no child would be denied the camp or Israel experience for financial reasons,” Edelman said. “Partnering with Bill and
Lon Lowenstein, as well as others passionate about informal learning, we were able to establish a First Time Campers incentive grant program.”
That program remains in place today.
Lowenstein also had a hand in starting and funding Jewish Employment Services, which would later become Career Skills & Connections, a joint program of Jewish Family Services and Jewish Vocational Service that helped hundreds of members of the Jewish community find jobs.
He co-created the Village Shalom humor project to bring smiles to the faces of Village Shalom residents, and he helped recommend and bring to Kansas City scholars in residence for the Jewish Community Center, such as Rabbi Judith Abrams.
Lowenstein grew up learning
the importance of philanthropy and taking care of others — he was influenced greatly by his father, and he passed the importance of philanthropy and involvement on to his children. Longtime friend and fellow Jewish philanthropist Harold Grinspoon said, “It is with great sadness that I learned that Bill passed away. I have such fond memories of being with him on trips out west, where we traveled with only a horse and mule through the wilderness for several days. I truly enjoyed spending time with Bill. My deep regret is that we did not spend more time together. Bill was unique and very special. I join [the Lowenstein family] in feeling the deep loss of such a marvelous human being.”
Lowenstein’s full obituary can be found on page 18.
A photo of Bill Lowenstein from a 1986 issue of The Chronicle (left) and a recent picture.
Debbie Granoff, 90, continues lifelong dedication to community
By Sam Kricsfeld Editor
Few people can claim to be as intertwined with the history of the Kansas City Jewish community as Debbie Granoff. A lifelong volunteer, the daughter of one of Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City’s founders and a 35-year Federation employee, Granoff’s commitment to Kansas City Jewry is more than evident.
Granoff, who celebrated her 90th birthday last month, is the daughter of Rabbi Max Bretton (z’l) and Mary Powell Bretton (z’l). Her father was instrumental in the development of the community, having served as the director of the Jewish Community Center and as a founder and first executive director of the local Jewish Federation. Bretton remained Federation director until 1946, overseeing its programming and aid efforts during World War II.
While both Granoff and the Federation were in their infancy, the two quickly became entwined.
“I remember as a child going [with my mother] door to door during [Federation’s Annual Campaign] and collecting in tzedakah boxes,” she said.
Granoff said that her baby book even includes an entry by her mother saying that at age two and a half, Granoff put some chairs, magazines and books together in a makeshift fort and said, “Don’t let anyone touch that. That’s my Federation.”
Despite this, Granoff did not originally intend to become a Jewish professional. She studied “a little bit of everything” throughout her time at Southwest High School, Northwestern University and the University of Missouri—Kansas City. She also worked at her father’s restaurant, Bretton’s, and as a professional child portrait photographer.
In 1953, she married attorney Loeb Granoff (z’l), and together they had two children, Joel and Lauri.
Granoff considered herself “a professional volunteer.” She volunteered with various community organizations, but when the 1973 Yom Kippur War in Israel occurred, she felt compelled to dedicate even more of her time to the Jewish community. She approached then-Federation Executive Director Sol Koenigsberg with her offer, telling
him that she could take “whatever pictures you need from any meetings or anything that goes on — it will be my way of giving to the community during this horrific time.”
Granoff’s Federation photographs became prolific — she took photos of gatherings, campaign events, speakers and more, developing them in her darkroom at home. Her photos often were published in issues of The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle. As the 1970s and 1980s progressed, her involvement grew further beyond photography as she became Women’s Division campaign chair and president, among other lay-leadership roles.
It wasn’t until 1989, however, that Granoff’s involvement with Federation would finally turn into her career.
“I went into [then-Executive Director A. Robert Gast’s] office, and he said to me… the Federation needs a director of communications,” she said. “I read [the job description], I looked at him and I said, ‘That’s me. I want that job.’”
She applied for the job and was hired, beginning a Federation career that has lasted more than three decades. Her professional roles have also included campaign director, and she is currently the director of special campaign projects.
Granoff is proud of the myriad Federation efforts she has been involved with for the past 35 years. She has had roles in numerous projects and efforts to help with the local and worldwide Jewish community, two of which being especially meaningful to her: helping resettle Soviet Jews; and establishing the communal professional exchange between Kansas City, Bulgaria, Romania and Israel.
The Soviet Union’s collapse had already begun when Granoff was hired, and the Federation was in the midst of its “Passage to Freedom” campaign to bring and resettle Soviet Jews in the United States in Israel. One of her first major projects was covering the arrival of a Soviet Jewish family in Kansas City and writing an article about it for The Chronicle.
“When [the family] finally arrived at the airport here, the son was embraced by his mother who had come to Kansas City 10 years before and had not seen him since, and she had never seen her grandchildren,” she said. “It was an extraordinarily moving and emotional experience for all of us who were there and one I shall never forget.”
The work behind the communal professional exchange began in 2002. The Federation worked with the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee to establish relationships between social workers, gerontologists, educators and funders and their counterparts in Bulgaria, Romania, and, in Israel, the Gezer Region and the city of Ramle.
“We learned from each other, each of us benefiting from our differences,” Granoff said about the exchange.
Granoff continues to work at the Federation part-time, often serving as an important resource for historical information, experienced advice and unique perspectives.
“Debbie is the gold standard of what it means to be a great Jewish community professional as well as an incredible person,” said Jonathan Schwartzbard, director of transformational giving at the Federation.
“She has dedicated her life to bettering the Kansas City and global Jewish communities while consistently putting others’ needs before her own.”
Granoff has no plans to stop her involvement with the Federation and the community.
“I’m motivated by what we do here and what we do worldwide,” she said. “We care about those in need. We care about enhancing Jewish values. These are all things that energize me. [They’re] inspiring… and motivate me to do what I’ve done now for a number of years. As long as I can continue doing them, I want to do them.”
JCRB|AJC to honor Bill Berkley with Human Relations Award
Jewish Community Relations Bureau | American Jewish Committee (JCRB|AJC) will honor civic and community leader Bill Berkley with its Henry W. Bloch Human Relations Award. Berkley will be presented with the award at JCRB|AJC’s annual Human Relations Event on Sunday, Nov. 24.
Berkley, chairman and CEO of Tension Corporation and son of community leader Bert Berkley, “has worked tirelessly to strengthen and expand opportunities for all Kansas Citians and regionally,” according to a JCRB|AJC announcement.
JCRB|AJC’s Human Relations Award honors the legacy of Henry W. Bloch, whose leadership and integrity set a benchmark for community activism.
“Like Henry W. Bloch, for whom the Human Relations Award is named, Bill exemplifies a quiet brand of leadership that uplifts and unifies,” the announcement continues. “A well-known consensus-builder and changemaker, Bill inspires others to mobilize and collaborate in the collective building of a better Kansas City.”
Berkeley, who was named the 2022 Kansas Citian of the Year by the Kansas City Chamber of Commerce, has focused on education initiatives from early childhood to post-secondary education. His leadership positions span the fields of life sciences, economic development and regionalism.
The Human Relations Event is chaired by Mayra Aguirre, Dr. Marc Hahn, Mark Jorgenson, Anne St. Peter, Maurice Watson and Debbie Wilkerson. It will also mark JCRB|AJC’s 80th anniversary.
Debbie Granoff
Bill Berkley
Harry Krigel Pabst, son of Lara and Ben Pabst, will become a bar mitzvah on Saturday, Aug. 17, at Congregation Kol Ami. He and his twin brother, Rhys, will celebrate their b’nai mitzvah together.
Harry’s grandparents are community members Susan and Scott Krigel; and Anne and Hank Pabst of St. Paul, Minnesota. In addition to his twin brother, he has an older sister, Norah.
Some of Harry’s hobbies include playing hockey and soccer. During the summer, he goes to Camp Sabra in Missouri.
Rhys Wayne Pabst, son of Lara and Ben Pabst, will become a bar mitzvah on Saturday, Aug. 17, at Congregation Kol Ami. He and his twin brother, Harry, will celebrate their b’nai mitzvah together.
Rhys’ grandparents are community members Susan and Scott Krigel; and Anne and Hank Pabst of St. Paul, Minnesota. In addition to his twin brother, he has an older sister, Norah.
Some of Rhys’ hobbies include running, playing hockey and playing soccer. During the summer, he goes to Camp Widjiwagan in Minnesota.
For his mitzvah project, Rhys has volunteered at Jewish Family Services.
JULIETs to host event on importance of voting
Jewish Unforgettable Ladies Interested in Eating Together (JULIETs) will host an event with Six Degrees of Activism leader Erin Woods and community member Marcia Rittmaster about the importance of voting.
Rittmaster will explain how voting is a mitzvah, and information will be shared about how to research candidates; register to vote; obtain a mail-in ballot; change address; and find polling places. Additionally, other overarching topics surrounding elections, such as the connection between the census and redistricting; apportionment; gerrymandering; and voter access debate will be covered.
Rittmaster is an ambassador for the Voter to Voter program and the administrator for Congregation Beth Torah’s
Voter to Voter team. The organization is a nonpartisan nonprofit focused on voter education and engagement.
Woods, who leads Six Degrees of Activism, a newsletter regarding legislation and election information in Kansas, will speak about how attendees can become more involved with advocacy and policy change. She and her organization focus on public schools, health care and voting access.
The event will take place at Congregation Beth Torah (6100 W. 127th St., Overland Park, KS 66209) on Sunday, Aug. 25, at 12:30 p.m. Reservations are required by Aug. 22. Those wanting to RSVP or find more information can contact Susie Klinock at juliets.kc@gmail.com.
Rabbi Mark Glass named new president of Rabbinical Association
Rabbi Mark Glass of Congregation
Beth Israel Abraham and Voliner (BIAV) was recently elected as president of the Rabbinical Association of Greater Kansas City (RA). Rabbi Glass succeeds Rabbi Moshe Grussgott of Kehilath Israel Synagogue.
Elected to serve with Rabbi Glass is Rabbi Stephanie Kramer of The Temple, Congregation B’nai Jehudah, who accepted the position of vice president; and Rabbi Alan Londy of New Reform Temple, who will serve as secretary-treasurer.
“I’m honored to have been chosen to be president of the RA for the next two years,” Rabbi Glass said.
Rabbi Mark Glass, a native of Manchester, England, joined BIAV as its rabbi in August of 2020. He received his BA in philosophy, MA in Jewish philosophy, and rabbinic ordination at Yeshiva University. Prior to moving to Kansas, he was the rabbi of the Adams Street Shul in Newton, Massachusetts, from 2017–2020 and a Judaic studies teacher at Maimonides School in both the middle and high school.
“In my few short years in Kansas City so far, I’ve already been inspired by the workings of our Rabbinical Association and by how united the rabbis are in our shared mission. It’s all too rare, unfortunately, for rabbis across different denominations to come together. What we have here at the RA is something special.”
The Rabbinical Association of Greater Kansas City includes Orthodox, Reconstructionist, Conservative, Reform and non-denominational rabbis and serves as the rabbinic voice in and for the Jewish community and the larger Greater Kansas City community. It guides the community in making religious decisions for community events, supports the rabbis in their personal and professional growth and develops and nourishes collegial relationships within the association.
The RA was officially incorporated June 17, 2002. It existed as an unincorporated, voluntary group for about 25 years, dating back to the mid-1970s. Over the years, the rabbis in Greater Kansas City have established a pattern of community-wide collaboration and have been called upon to provide information, guidance and leadership
on both Jewish and interfaith issues. Today, the rabbis meet monthly, functioning as a board of directors and dealing with issues brought to them by the community and of their own initiative.
“Each year, our Association sponsors several community-wide religious and educational events, designed to enhance the experience of every Jew in our community,” Rabbi Glass said.
The RA offers a year-long community-wide course, “Judaism for Conversion Candidates;” a community professional development day for Jewish religious school educators; and partners with The J to offer a day-long program of Jewish learning, the community-wide Day of Discovery. In the past, The RA partnered with Jewish Family Services in creating the Community Mental Health Coalition and JFS Food Pantry, and it supports and participates in community programs such as Yom HaShoah, Yom HaAtzmaut and the Jewish Culture Fest.
“I hope to emphasize our communal unity under the sponsorship of the RA,” Rabbi Glass said. “While we’ve all felt a heightened sense of unity since the tragedy of Oct. 7, we need to come together during moments of joy as well as mourning.”
Rabbi Glass also stressed his appreciation to Rabbi Grussgott for leading the RA for the past two years.
“I look forward to being at the helm of continuing the long tradition of cooperation that we have had going in our community for so many years now,” he said.
More information about the RA is available at kcrabbi.org. Questions or additional information about the RA can be directed to Administrator/Program Director Annette Fish at afprogram@ aol.com or (913) 327-8226.
Bar Mitzvah
Harry Krigel Pabst
Bar Mitzvah
Rhys Wayne Pabst
Rabbi Mark Glass
Day of Discovery to take place this Sunday
Organizers for the annual Day of Discovery are making final preparations for this year’s event, which takes place on Sunday, Aug. 18, at the Jewish Community Campus.
The day begins at 8:45 a.m. with registration and a light breakfast, and classes begin at 9:30 a.m.
Although pre-registration has closed, limited walk-in registration for sessions is still available. Interested walk-in participants should arrive by 9 a.m. to sign up for any in-person class offered. Information on the class offerings can be found at dayofdiscoverykc.org.
More than 20 classes for adult learners will be offered throughout the day on a wide range of topics, led by Jewish teachers, educators, professors and clergy located in Kansas City. This program provides the opportunity for the Jewish community to discover the breadth of Jewish learning in Kansas City.
Presenter Kim Kushner is looking forward to presenting for the first time after attending the event last year. Kushner’s session, “Examining Jewish Undergraduate Student Sense of Belonging in U.S. Higher Education,” is about her doctoral dissertation study and focuses specifically on the Generation Z population.
“I situate my research in literature related to U.S. Jewish identity, the history of Jewish students in U.S. higher education and studies related to Generation Z Jewish and non-Jewish students,” Kushner said. “I also position my research in literature related to SOB (sense of belonging) in postsecondary education and for historically underrepresented
Day of Discovery
populations.”
As a current Ed.D. student at UMKC, Kushner has presented her findings at organizations across the United States, including at NASPA: Student Affairs in Higher Education (March 2023), the Jewish Emerging Adulthood: A Research Convening at Brandeis (May 2024) and the Network for Research in Jewish Education (NRJE) (June 2024).
In addition to sharing her research and knowledge, Kushner is looking forward to the conversation surrounding it.
“I hope that we can have a great discussion about how our community and higher education leaders can create actionable interventions to help Jewish college students, especially given the current campus climate on many of our U.S. colleges/universities,” Kushner said.
There's still time to share your love story with us! Submit a photo and tell us what you love about your partner for the chance to be featured in The Chronicle!
New Date: August 29
Day of Discovery, which is a partnership of Jewish Experiences, a collaboration of Jewish Federation at The J and the Rabbinical Association of Greater Kansas City, is a unique opportunity for the entire Jewish community to discover and explore the richness, diversity and joy of Jewish learning in Kansas City.
More information is available at dayofdiscovery.org or by contacting Megan Pener at meganp@thejkc.org or (913) 327-8163.
Editor’s note: Chronicle staff will be presenting “More than a Century of Community Coverage — How The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle Reported History” during the third session, 1:15 to 2:30 p.m.
Sunday, Aug. 18, from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Jewish Community Campus, 5801 W. 115th St., Overland Park, KS 66211
the QR to share your love story with us!
Comedian Matt Friend named new KC SuperStar finals host
Across
1. Gnaw
5. Jolt
10. Columnist, __ Barrett
14. Etrog’s cousin
15. Brother to Moses
16. Israeli food company
17. Uzis
18. Bro to Marceau
19. Spanish philosopher
20. Spoon, ___ and candle
22. Rosh Chodesh
66. Tardy 67. __Helmsley 69. Ellis or Cyprus 70. Funt or Greenspan
Prepare latkes
Abel’s brother
Name on towel
Pleats
Chabad attire?
Down 1. Mezzuzah scroll
Comedian, actor and impersonator Matt Friend will step in as the celebrity host for this year’s KC SuperStar Finals, replacing NBC’s Saturday Night Live cast member Chloe Fineman, who had to step away from the role due to an unforeseen scheduling conflict. The finals will be held on Sunday, Aug. 25 at 7 p.m. in Yardley Hall at Johnson County Community College (12345 College Blvd, Overland Park, KS 66210).
“We are so thrilled to have Matt Friend as our celebrity host for our finals,” said Tammy Ruder, KC SuperStar producer. “Matt will be an engaging entertainment host. We are looking forward to his interviews with the finalists and are curious to see what impersonations he brings to the evening. It is sure to be an evening of laughs and music.”
Friend’s passion for comedy and entertainment has resulted in him amassing over 1 million followers on TikTok, Instagram and other social platforms. Friend is known for his repertoire of over 250 impressions, earning praise from celebrities such as Howard Stern, Jeff Goldblum and Paul Giamatti for his impressions.
As host of the event, Friend will interview all 10 KC SuperStar finalists throughout the evening and will entertain audience members with a standup routine.
Hundreds of teen singers from across the region have participated in KC SuperStar since its inception, and several competitors have continued to perform professionally. KC SuperStar provides over $22,000 in scholarships to the Top 10 finalists who come from across the metro area.
As The J’s major fundraising event, KC SuperStar provides financial assistance to members so they can participate in its many services such as the Child Development Center, J Camp, health and fitness, the arts, as well as meals and transportation for The J’s Heritage, Lifelong Learning for Adults 55+. A portion of funds raised goes to The Reat Griffin Underwood Rising Stars Fund, which supports performing arts education and training programs for youth ages 14 to 21.
Sponsorship opportunities are still available; more information about KC SuperStar is available at kcsuperstar.org.
Sunday, Aug. 25, at 7 p.m.
Yardley Hall, 12345 College Blvd, Overland Park, KS 66210
24. Thomashefsky or Pasternak
26. Break the ninth
27. Abraham once
30. Ein Gedi
32. Kedem squeeze?
36. Hamataschen filling 38. Fays (Eng.)
40. Needs a Meeshebairach
41. Jack Kirby creation
42. Esau to Naphtali
44. Tikkun __
45. Mt Hermon feature?
46. Third dynasty king
47. Cosmetic lady, __ Rubenstein
49. Tribe of Ishmaelite archers
51. Sanctuary seat
53. Oregon senator 54. Torah
56. Old Jerusalem?
58. Alpha __ Pi 62. Dangerfield’s desire
Employ 3. Poet, __ Lazarus 4. Occupied territory 5. “60 Minutes” costar
Pollster
Solomon’s find
Biblical crop
Imitate Jolson
Bedouin
Principles signing city
Moses’ last mount
King of Judah
Casa to Marrano
Sheitels
“seven
• ART THERAPY (pg. 15)
• BACK TO SCHOOL STORE (pg. 7)
• BILL BERKLEY (pg. 3)
• DAY OF DISCOVERY (pg. 5)
• DEBBIE GRANOFF (pg. 3)
• JEWISH HERITAGE NIGHT (pg. 8)
• JULIETS (pg. 4)
• KU CHABAD (pg. 1)
• LEADERS FOR TOMORROW (pg. 15)
• MATT FRIEND (pg. 6)
• RABBI GLASS (pg. 4)
• SASONE (pg. 13)
The words you’ll be searching for are all subjects of articles in this week’s Chronicle! The words can be forward or backward, oriented up and down, left and right or diagonal.
Matt Friend
KC Superstar Finals
Sabrina Hodak and Mike Ginsberg. Troop 61 is sponsored by Congregation Beth Shalom.
Left: Members of the Jewish Federation’s staff joined members of our community at Jewish Heritage Night at the K last week. Pictured are (back row) Rebekah Ebeling, Ty Fernandez, (front row) Taly Friedman, Debbie Granoff, Andi Milens and Jon Schwartzbard.
Right: The Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Kansas City hosted an ice cream social for its community partners at the Siegler Pavilion on the Jewish Community Campus. Pictured are (top, from left) Debbie Bass and Taly Friedman; Frank Lipsman and David Spizman; (bottom, from left) Josh Stein, Jay Lewis, Jim Sluyter and Annie Glickman.
PTSD Program
Sharon Star, the Hadassah Great Plains Region president, recently visited and spoke at the local Haddash chapter event, "PTSD: The Symptoms and Treatments." At the event, community member Tyler Jacobs, a local psychiatrist, gave a medical overview of PTSD. Social worker Elissa Bamberger also led attendees in a relaxation exercise technique.
NCJW, JFS partner for ‘Back to School Store’ for underserved students
As the new school year approaches, the National Council for Jewish Women (NCJW) hosted its annual Back to School Store initiative in collaboration with Jewish Family Services (JFS) and 12 other social service agencies. The program has distributed more than 400 backpacks filled with school supplies to underserved children in the area.
NCJW’s program is intended to alleviate financial burdens on struggling families with students and ensure students begin a new school year with confidence. Each participating student received a personalized gift bag including a new backpack, clothes, school supplies and winter coat based
on information provided by their parent or caregiver.
Through its KesherKC service and resource program, JFS distributed 73 gift bags during two recent Back to School Store events, one at The J and one at JFS’ Brookside location.
“It was so nice to see parents relaxed and enjoying time coloring, reading and blowing bubbles with their kids,” said Moshit Snir, KesherKC community resource coordinator. “One young boy pulled out his backpack and grinned ear to ear, saying, ‘It’s perfect.’”
“We are so thankful for JFS’ long partnership with NCJW and their gen-
erous support,” said Alison Tellatin, KesherKC social work manager. “They care deeply about our community’s youth and their education.”
JFS’ KesherKC program connects people with services and resources centered around the JFS food pantry. On-site social workers assist people challenged with food, housing, employment and financial insecurity.
More information about KesherKC, JFS and donations is available at jfskc. org/ways-to-give.
Right: Among the NCJW volunteers helping pack backpacks for area students were (back to front) Debbie Trenton, Kelly Somberg, Meggin Emert, Logan Cole and Michelle Cole.
Asher Glass, second from the left, of Scout Troop 61, recently completed his Eagle Project at the Torah Learning Center. Asher's project provided shelves for kitchen equipment along with two benches. Pictured are (from left): Norman Glass, Asher Glass, Rex Hebberd, Shai Friedman, Daniel Nevat, Ezra Jacobs, Eric Bell, Dan O'Connor, Eitan Jacobson,
Ice Cream Social
JFED at The K
New Eagle Scout
Fans celebrate Jewish Heritage Night with the Royals
Jewish fans pose with Royals mascot Sluggerrr.
The community came together for Jewish Heritage Night at The K on Wednesday, Aug. 7, celebrating Jewish heritage and enjoying a Royals win.
Bobby Witt Jr. hit two home runs, leading the Royals to a 8-4 win over the Boston Red Sox at Kauffman Stadium. More than 375 community members joined the festivities as part of a combined Jewish Federation and The J group.
Attendees received a custom jersey with “Royals” written in Hebrew. Nearly 1,000 Jewish Heritage Night tickets were sold overall.
“Jewish Heritage Night with the Royals was such a special night for our community,” said Jay Lewis, president and CEO of Federation. “It meant so
much that the Royals did it, and it was a great opportunity for so many in our community to come together for a fun night at Kauffman Stadium to celebrate the Kansas City Jewish community, a Royals win, and two Bobby Witt Jr. home runs.”
The evening kicked off with a pregame tailgate hosted by Jewish Federation and The J, with approximately 225 guests in attendance. Kim Matsil of Kim’s Kreations catered the event, and guests ate chicken shawarma and falafel.
Prior to the game, multiple community members were honored. Danielle and Sam Levine, Beth Liss, Lynne Melcher and Barry Kaseff were recognized on the field before the game, and
Sam Levine threw out the honorary first pitch to Neil Miller. Jeff and Lisa Stolper’s son, Bo, was the Royals’ “Play Ball” kid. Additionally, 2023 KC SuperStar winner Brett Oplotnik sang the national anthem.
“It was so special to see our Jewish community get together for a night of fun at Kauffman Stadium,” said Jim Sluyter, president and CEO of The J. “On top of enjoying a Royals win, we had a fantastic opportunity to recognize and honor individuals who have made a deep impact on our community.”
“The tailgate and attendance for Jewish Heritage Night at The K is something we should truly feel proud of as a community,” said Megan Pener, manager of Jewish Experiences, a
collaboration of Jewish Federation and The J. “It was wonderful to see so many people wearing their Hebrew Royals jerseys, all in large groups and being proud of our heritage.”
Harry and Gail Himmelstein honored at Village Shalom
Village Shalom recently hosted a reception to celebrate the support and generosity of Harry and Gail Himmelstein. The event, held on Aug. 6, marked a significant milestone in the organization’s history: recognizing the Himmelsteins’ recent gift of $100,000 to the Village Shalom Financial Assistance Program, which provides care for the one out of four residents who have depleted their financial resources.
The reception featured the dedication of the Rehabilitation Bistro, now named in honor of the Himmelsteins. This newly dedicated space is intended to serve as a hub for residents, community engagement and wellbeing.
Harry Himmelstein’s connection to Village Shalom traces back to his grandmother’s role in the expansion of
the Shalom Geriatric Center in 1986. His extensive prior service on the Village Shalom board underscored his commitment to the organization, and his leadership and philanthropic efforts have affected not only Village Shalom but also the Kansas City community.
Both of the Himmelsteins have been involved in numerous community initiatives to improve the lives of those around them. Through the establishment of the Harry and Gail Himmelstein Older Adults Endowment Fund at the Jewish Community Foundation (JCF), they have ensured that older adults in the community will continue to receive the support
The Himmelstein family were honored at Village Shalom on Aug. 6.
and services they need, from vital healthcare to essential social connections, for generations.
“We are incredibly grateful for Harry and Gail’s continued dedication and generosity,” said Bob Gershon,
board chair of Village Shalom. “Their contributions have had a transformative impact on our community and will continue to inspire us for years to come.”
The Himmelsteins’ son Paul, along with his wife, Susan, and three daughters, attended the reception, along with many close friends who live at Village Shalom. Their 17-year-old granddaughter has also continued the family’s legacy of philanthropy by contributing to Village Shalom through JCF’s B’nai Tzedek program for teenagers. Many of their friends spoke about the Himmelsteins’ generosity and their impact on the Jewish community.
Above left: Neil Miller (from left), Sam Levine, Danielle Levine, Barry Kaseff, Lynne Melcher and Beth Liss pose before going on the field.
Above right: Community members (back row, from left) Tracy Tankard, Amelia Mallett-Kass, Hannah Katz, Jami Cecchettini, Henri Gaeddert, Justine Valdivia, (front row, from left) Leiba Estrin, Rebecca Speier, Bridey Stangler and Chana Thomas at The K.
Right: Young
Last week’s results:
Do you think Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) programs are valuable?
Were you involved with Jewish student organizations in college?
Community members speak out against Christian
Jewish community members were among the panelists who spoke after two local screenings of the documentary “Bad Faith: Christian Nationalism’s Unholy War on Democracy.”
Mainstream Civic Engagement hosted the Kansas premiere of “Bad Faith.” Nearly 100 attendees joined the July 31 showing at Liberty Hall in Lawrence, and more than 300 participated in the Aug. 1 event at Glenwood Arts Theater in Leawood, Kansas. This was the first of three events being held by Mainstream as part of its “Defending Democracy” event series presented by community member Donna Gould Cohen.
Rabbi Caitlin Brazner was one of multiple local faith leaders who spoke about the effect of Christian nationalism on their communities after the Leawood screening.
“America is a shining beacon because it was founded on the idea that people should have individual rights, and so I think that’s something we are desperate to protect, and we are so eager to stand alongside like-minded individuals who want to take up that fight,” Rabbi Brazner said. “I hope that we take what we learn from ‘Bad Faith’ as the
fuel and energy we need to do what comes next, which is to vote, which is to organize, which is to address the rise of Christian nationalism and the incredible danger that it poses to our democracy, to us as people, to us as individuals, and to us as Americans.”
Michael Poppa, executive director of Mainstream Civic Engagement and mayor of Roeland Park, Kansas, said that Christian nationalism is “a dangerous movement to strike down our constitutional right to the separation of church and state.”
nationalism
board members and local faith
“Those who value civil liberties need to start paying attention now before we cross over into an actual theocracy in our country,” Poppa said.
Anne Nelson, who is featured in the film, a writer for Washington Spectator and author of “Shadow Network: Media, Money and the Secret Hub of the Radical Right,” participated in a panel following the screenings.
“Christian Nationalism is a threat, not just to our democratic institutions, but also to our way of life. Many of our forefathers came to this country to escape tyrants who wanted to impose their religious dogmas and practices on others,” Nelson said.
In addition to Rabbi Brazner, community members who participated in the post-screening panels included Mainstream Civic Engagement cofounder Judy Hellman; board member Liz Benditt; and KU Religious Studies
Professor Sam Brody. Mainstream Civic Engagement is part of Mainstream Coalition, founded 31 years ago by “a bipartisan coalition of legislators, faith leaders and community activists with the primary purpose of guarding against ideological extremism and protecting the separation of church and state,” according to its website. The founders included Dr. Robert H. Meneilly, David Goldstein, Hellman, Carol Sader, Nancy Brown and Rabbi Mark Levin.
The “Defending Democracy” series will continue with an Aug. 20 panel providing perspective on Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025, a conservative “presidential transition project;” and a “Get Out The Vote” brunch on Sept. 8 featuring Rachel Laser, president and CEO of Americans United for Separation of Church and State. Information for both events can be found at mainstreamcoalition.org/democracy.
Mainstream Civic Engagement staff and
following the Kansas premier of “Bad Faith” at the Glenwood Arts Theater. Pictured (back row, from left) are Laurel Burchfield, Rebecka Noel, David Smith, Anne Nelson, Judy Hellman, Liz Benditt and Rabbi Caitlin Brazner; and (front row, from left) Erin Gould, Michael Poppa and Pastor Cheryl Jefferson Bell.
Smarter Giving. Your Way.
Thank you to the following generous donors who have Created a Jewish Legacy and ensured a vibrant community for generations to come.
These individuals and families have made planned gift commitments through their estates or other gift arrangements to a local Jewish organization or synagogue, or currently supported their endowment. We invite you to join them. jcfkc.org
The following is a list of donors who have made planned gifts, future and realized. JCF will publish a list of Donor Advised Funds in the Chronicle on September 26th.
Lauren S. Aaronson
Evelyn R. & Charles L. Abrams
Phyllis & Erwin Abrams
Renana & Michael Abrams
Alice & David Jacks
Achtenberg
Bertha S. Adelson
Ida E. Adelson
Herbert Adler
Jeanne & Dan Adler
Janet & Allen Agron
Cathy & Jeff Alpert
Helen & Abe Alport
Brenda Althouse & Paul Fingersh
Meredith & Jon Angrist
Danielle & Jeremy Antes
Elizabeth Appelbaum
Gail & James Appelbaum
Elisabeth & Hans Archenhold
Audrey Asher & Michael Lerner
Barbara & Richard P. Atlas
Diane & Steve Azorsky
Gloria & Michael A. Azorsky
Dierdre & Ronnie Baker
Janet Davis Baker & Bruce Baker
Ruth & Harry Baker
Li Balanoff
Ida & Albert Bamberger
Dorothy Freiden Baraban
Jack Baraban
Carol & Thomas Barnett
Ann & G. Kenneth Baum
Bernice & Sol Baum
Christopher Beal
Stacey & Rick Belzer
Sarah & Peter Beren
Merilyn & Loren Berenbom
Carol & Lewis Berey
Carole & Jim Bergh
Susan & Victor Bergman
Joan & Bert Berkley
Marcia & Eliot Berkley
Maureen & William Berkley
Anita Berkowitz
Marian & Harold Berkowitz
Estelle Berman
Lisa & Jerry Bernard
Doris Bernhard
Phyliss Bernstein
Irene & Leonard Bettinger
Mary & Arnold Birnbaum
Muriel & Jack Blackman
Rita Blitt
Gloria & Allen Block
Sharyn & Irwin Blond
Sherry & Michael Blumenthal
Cindy & Fred Bodker
Harvey S. Bodker
Anna & Abe Bograd
Elizabeth & Jack Bohm
Laurie Bomba & Andy Fromm
George G. Bornstein
Karen & Jerry Borowick
Brooks H. Bower
Cathy Boyer-Shesol & Ron Shesol
Aaron Braeman
Family of Aaron Braeman
Betty Brand
Clara & Hyman Brand
Laura & Roman Breitberg
Daniel Brenner
Stevi & Jeffrey Brick
Betty & L.H. Brickman
Joan Briman
Brian Brockman
Charlotte & Richard Brockman
Jean & David Brockman
Marla Brockman &
John Goldberg
Mark Brodkey
Scott Bronson
Carol Brooks
Frances & Jack Brown
Helen & Martin Brown
Peedee & Phillip Brown
Regina & Morten Brown
Bonnie & Herb Buchbinder
Betty & Jordan Bushman
Stanley J. Bushman
C. Charles Cantor
Cathy & Craig Caplan
Phyllis Carozza & Frank Loeffler
Robin & Bill Carr
Carol & Arnold Caviar
Ed Christophersen
Ann Morse Cohen
Debra L. & Howard E. Cohen
Donna Gould Cohen
Gloria & Steven Cohen
Jeannette & Jerry Cohen
Joseph Cohen
Linda & Rabbi Alan L. Cohen
Lisa & Leonard Cohen
Lynn Cohen
Mary Davidson Cohen & Barton P. Cohen
Miles A. Cohen
Nancy Sher Cohen & Robert Cohen
Phyllis G. & Barton J. Cohen
Barbara & Sanford Cohn
David Cohn
Celine & Todd Coppaken
Denise & Ronald Coppaken
Debby & Gary Cortés
Rita Cortés
Dorothy & Louis Cumonow
Cutler Family Foundation
Robert S. Cutler
Sadie & Joseph Danciger
Ann L. Darke
Diane & Mark Davidner
Sheryl & Ron Davidow
Gregg S. Davidson
James H. Davis
Lainie & Jim Decker
Devinki Family
Maria Devinki
Allison DeWitt
Kathy & Robert DeWitt
Dreiseszun Family
Irene & Sherman Dreiseszun
Selma Dreiseszun
Janet & Daniel Dubrava
Marvin Dunn
Marian Durbin
Stanley H. Durwood
Dora & Ben Edelbaum
Doris & William Edelman
Rhonda & David Eigenberg
Joan & Alvin Einbender
Elinor & Gustave Eisemann
Sandy & David Eisenberg
Sandra & Martin L. Eisenman
Jessica & Michael Ellis
Ann R. Elyachar
Fran Emmer
Meredith Farnan
Ann & Isak Federman
Diane & Arthur B. Federman
David Feingold
Harry C. Feingold
Gloria Baker Feinstein & Eddie Feinstein
Selma & Milton Feld
Cynthia & Robert Feldman
Nicole & Jack Feldman & Family
JoAnn S. Field
Beatrice & Steve Fine
Pella & Jack N. Fingersh
Beverly & Herbert Fishman & Family
Doris & Paul Flam
Dora Fox
Bari Freiden
Sandi & Ed Fried & Family
SuEllen & Harvey Fried
Elaine & David Friedman
Jacob Friedman
Morris Friedman
Sondra & Frank Friedman
Bernie Fromm
Kristen & Daniel Fromm
Rhonda & Jeff Fromm
Lawrence (Larry) D. Fry
Amy & Derek Gale
Louise Garfinkle
Albert Gerecht
Frances Wang Gershon
Phillip L. Gershon
Susie & Paul Gershon
Gloria Gershun
Martha Gershun & Don Goldman
James S. Gerson
Karen & Jeffry Gerson
Lynn & John Gerson
Chuck Gilbert
Noreen E. Gilmore
Cheryl & B. William Ginsberg
Karen Glickstein & Don Swartz
Henri & David Goettel
Goldberg & Intrater Families
Geraldine & Stan Goldberg
Solomon Goldberg
Vita & Nathan Goldberg
Jeff Goldenberg
Hildy & Joel K. Goldman
Lila Goldman
Madeline & Barry Goldman
Michelle Goldsmith
Susan & Ronald W. Goldsmith
Adelle & Marvin Goldstein
Carol & Marvin Goldstein
Debra & Stuart A. Goldstein
Margaret & Larry Goldstein
David R. Goodman
Roz & Fredric Goodman
Gorlin Family Foundation
Evelyn Gorten
Karen & Michael Gortenburg
Arvin Gottlieb Foundation
Shirley Gottstein
Lucy & Sam Gould
Marlis Grad
Evie & Bob Grant
Phyllis & Rudy Green
Marvin “Buddy” Greenbaum
Joel D. Greenberg
Sidney Greenberg
Susan & Bob Greenberg
Sharon & James Greenwood
Amy & Lee Greif
Megan & Michael Grossman
Guckenheimer Family
Charlotte Gumowitz
Gail & Allen Gutovitz
Berenice Haberman
Hortense & Joseph J. Haith
Randi & Larry Haith
Rickie & Edward E. Haith
Natalie & Hanan Hammer
Susan & Steve Hammer
Hammontree Family
Flo Harris
Hannah B. Harris & Jerald S. Enslein
Regine & Max Harwick
Judy & G. Richard Hastings
Shanna & Matt Haun
Kathy Krigel Hawley
Barbara & Scott Hecht
Judith & Lloyd Hellman
Bush Helzberg
Charles M. Helzberg
Shirley & Barnett
Helzberg, Jr.
Karen & Mike Herman
Betty & Lenny Hershman
Cathy & Joe Hiersteiner
Jean Hiersteiner
Gail & Harry Himmelstein
Louise C. Hipsh & Neil W. Breslow
Liz & John Hjalmarson
Heather & Chris Hobbs
Judy & David Hochman
Bernard Hoffman
Kathy & Elliott Hollub
Lauren & John Hoopes
Lynn Hoover
Brita Horowitz
Amy Hurst
Laura & Tim Intfen
Lynn & Bill Intrater
Ann & Tom Isenberg
Jenny & John Isenberg
Mark Isenberg
Vera Isenberg
Sandra & Lawrence Jabenis
Jacobs Family
Cory & Daniel Jacobs
Harry Jacobs
Judy & David Jacobs
Phillip Jacobs
Sherri & Jonathan Jacobs
Ann R. Jacobson
Rosalyn & Howard T Jacobson
Trudy & John Jacobson
JAZ-MD
Donna & Baruch Kaelter
Don Kahan
Norman Kahn
Harold Kain
Gina Kaiser & David Gale
James F. Kanally
David Kaplan
Florence Kaplan
Marian Kaplan
Michele & Harvey Kaplan
Sheryl & Andrew Kaplan
Karbank Family
Marcia Karbank
Rose & Barney Karbank
Arlene & David Kaseff
Barry Kaseff
Miriam & Eric Kaseff
Donna & Ward A. Katz
Linda & Barry Katz
Marlene & Stanley A. Katz
Marvin Katz
Leon Katzberg
Leibert Kaufman
Lynn & Andrew B. Kaufman
Stephanie & Kurt Kavanaugh
Andrea Kempf
Gordon Kingsley
Suzanne Kingsley
Marc Kingston
Melissa Kingston
Margaret & Clarence Kivett
Lori Silvers Klarfeld
Carla & Tiberius Klausner
Betty & Richard Klein
Lisa & James Klein
Michael Klein
Jan & David Knopke
Sol Koenigsberg
Joy & Stewart Koesten
Amanda & Brad Koffman
Phyllis & Ronald Kogan
Shirley & Alfred Kohlman
Cantor Sharon R. Kohn & Richard Simon
Kolkin Family
Ellen & Stephen Kort
Regina & William Kort
Robert A. Kort
Judy & Alan Kosloff
Marlene Krakow
Polly Kramer
Miriam & Harry Krantz
Rachel B. Krantz & Edward J. Goldstein
Nicole Krein & Gerald W.
Lyons
Barbara & Edwin Krigel
Erlene & Sanford P. Krigel
Gayle & Bruce Krigel Family
Marsha & Seymour Krinsky
Mildred “Millie” S. Kritzler
Barbara & Sandy Krug
Emma Landie
William Lee
Barbara & Allen Lefko
Doreen Leifer
Fannie & Morris Lerner & Meyer Lerner
Paul Lerner
Linda & Larry Lessner
Carol & Richard M. Levin
Emelie Levin
Gayle & Ronald Levin
Kacy Childs Levin & Rabbi Mark Levin
Julie, Michael, Sofia & Noa Levine
Robin Levine
Jane & James Levitt
Molly & Tom Levitt
Judith U. & Martin Levy
Nicole & David Levy
Nita Levy
Kim & Jay Lewis
Margery Lichtor
Floriene & George Lieberman
Lillian & David N. Lieberman
Colleen & Craig Ligibel
Sharon & Jerry Lindenbaum
Lilian & Norbert Lipschuetz
Beth & Michael Liss
Myra Litman
Dorothy & Julius Loeffler
Karen Loggia & David
Spizman
Christa & Stanley Louis
Lowenstein Brothers Foundation
William Lowenstein
Gail & Richard Lozoff
Jill & Jim Maidhof
Gwenn “Babe” Mallin
Lore & Mel Mallin
Sharon & Jeffrey Mallin
Jack Mandelbaum
Barbara & Rabbi Herbert J. Mandl
Sylvia Manko
Aaron March
Florence & Abraham E.
Margolin
Bernard A. Margolis
Janet Mark & Frank Lipsman
Esther Markus & Weber Ingersoll
Henry Massman
Kim & Adam Matsil
Golda & Ernest Mayer
Vicky & Howard Mayer
Sue McCord-Belzer & Irv Belzer
Michael McCune
Mary Kay McPhee & William Pfeiffer
Doris & William Mendel
Diane Merkadeau
Pamela Merkadeau
Carol Meyers
Rowena & Cyril Milens
Jill Zeldin Miller
Shirley & Stanley Morantz
Morgan Family Foundation
Shanny & Eric Morgenstern
Shelah & Jim Mueth
Alana Muller & Marc
Hammer
Marsha Murphy & Robert Morantz
Marlene & Jack Nagel
Leah, Jerry & Jonah Nash
Jennifer Neill & Howard
Barewin
Susan & Lewis Nerman
Lori & Javid Noorollah
Linda & Skip Nottberg
Elizabeth & Sam Nussbaum
Ronna & Larry Nussbaum
Donna Oberstein & Ace Allen
Helen & Julius U. Oelsner
Robin Onikul
Brad Ordo
Marvin Orlovick
Maggie Osgood-Nicholls & Jake Nicholls
Susan & Steve Osman
Joyce & Dee Pack
Karen & Steven Pack
Sheila & Lawrence Pakula
Amanda Palan
Barbara & Robert V. Palan
Janice Panknin
Jean & Allen Parelman
Edis & Sid Parkans
Jennifer & Steven Paul
Roslyn Braeman Payne
Brenda & Joel Pelofsky
Dorothy & Julius Peltzman
Millie & Robert Peltzman
Shirley Pener
Debby & Joseph Pfefer
Barbara & Oscar Pinsker
Gloria & Howard Pitler
Rita & Larry Poisner
Sharon Lowenstein Poisner & Alan Poisner
Elaine & Norman Polsky
Carol & David Porter
Dianna & William Porter
Karen & Ed Porter
Harry Portman Charitable Trust
Ruth Pozez
Betty Price
Janet & Harold Price
Mary Jo & Barry Price
Sara & Ted Prince
Aaron Rabinovitz
David A. Raffel
Betsy & Scott Redler
Jessica & Adam Rich
Nathan Rieger
Ellen & Irv Robinson
Jessica & John Rockhold
Michael E. Rogovein
Mary Beth Rohlf
Ellen & Edward S. Rose
Gerald Rose
Rosanne & Howard Rosen
Fern & John Rosenberg
Gerald Rosenblum
Sylvia Rosenstock
Brenda & Howard Rosenthal
Susan & Ernest Rosenthal
Dorothy Rosenwald
Sally & Miles Ross
Eunice & Ben Ruben
Arlene & John Rubenstein
Anna & Charles Rubins
Julie & David Rudman
Esther & Cy Rudnick
Gerean Rudnick
Bobbie & Paul Russell
Sarah & Joseph H. Rutlader
Rhea Salasche & Harold Kaseff
Scott A. Samuels
Orven Schanzer
Miriam & Daniel Scharf
Fani & William Schifman
Lisa & Ken Schifman
Gloria Rosenbloom
Schlesinger & Stanley
Schlesinger
Marjorie & William Schlosberg
Vivien & Daniel L. Schlozman
Janice Schonwetter
Cathy & Michael A. Schultz
Sonia & Sam Schultz
Rabbi Neal Schuster
Janet & Andrew Schwartz
Charlotte & Isadore Shafton
John E. Shamberg
Amy & Peter Shapiro
Lillian Shaw
Barbara Shear
Marian & Brad Shear
Ruth & Nathan Shechter
Scott I. Sher
Beth & Mike Sherry
Judy & Steve Sherry
Clara & Ben Shlyen
Stevie & John Shuchart
Marian Shultz
Bonnie & Matthew Siegel
Lynette & Norman Siegel
Myra & Lester Siegel, Jr.
Merna & Sylvan Siegler
Pearl B. Silverman
Aletha & Bob Simon
Connie & Richard Simon
Denise & Scott M. Slabotsky
Rachel & Noah Slabotsky
Patricia & Daniel Slosburg
Elaine & Myron Slotsky
Joanna & David Slusky
Julie & Jim Sluyter
Beth K. Smith
Eva & Jason Sokol
Joseph Solsky
Kelly & Dan Somberg
Sosland Family
Blanche & Neil Sosland
Estelle & Morton Sosland
Jane & L. Joshua Sosland
Rachel Pase Sosland & David Sosland
Vivian & Hymie Sosland
Debbie Sosland-Edelman & Alan S. Edelman
Gwendolyn & Joseph Speyer
Staenberg Family Foundation
Leah Starr
Alice & Harry Statland
Carly & Louis Stein
Esther & Stewart Stein
Sheryl & Josh Stein
Lydia DeWitt Steinberg
Ann & Dan Stern
Clare Stern
Elaine Feld Stern
Ruth Stern
Frank Sterneck
Robin Sterneck
Shirley & Todd Stettner
Reverend Lisa Gay Stevens & James H. Stevens
Phyllis & Bill Stevens
Lorraine Stiffelman
Jennifer & John Stolte
Kay & Ira Stolzer
Anna Strauss
Gerre & Eugene Strauss
Bonnie & Mickey Swade
Evelina & Steve Swartzman
Frances & Louis Swinken
Marvin Szneler
Doris Taube
Ten Ten Foundation
Tension Envelope Foundation
Donna & Harvey Thalblum
Evy & Lowell Tilzer
Ruthie & Harold Tivol
Susan & Thomas S. Tivol
Sally & Don Tranin
Helen & Ben Trillin
Patricia Werthan Uhlmann
Paul Uhlmann, Jr.
Sue & Joel D. Vile
Sara & Danny Wajcman
Alfred Wallach
Nicole & Myron Wang
Janice & Alan Wasserman
Judith Wasserman
Wallace N. Weber
Dolores & Hanan Wedlan
Gail & Gary Weinberg
Felicia & Seymour Weiner
Irene & Howard Weiner
Larry Weinstein
Civia & Rabbi Scott White
Shirley & Lewis White
Gail & Bill Wien
Leonard Wilk Family
Leonard S. Wilk
Marsha & Mark Williams
Susie & Donald Wilson
B.D. Winyard & Norman B. Kahn, Jr.
Heim Wolberg
Ellen & Jerome T. Wolf
Kelly Duffy Wolf & Gregory Wolf
Marcia & Bob Wolff
Irene Wurzburger
Fanny Yarmo
Susan Zale
Pamela & Michael Zanders
Linda Zappulla
Karen & Rabbi Michael Zedek
Jean & Bob Zeldin
Joyce & Stanford A. Zeldin
Laura Ziegler-Davis & Gard Davis
Lezlie & Dave Zucker
Julie & Joe Zwillenberg
community news
KU Chabad building new Chabad House
continued from page 1
Jewish life,” Nechama Tiechtel said. “This new center will afford so many that opportunity, and we’re thrilled to be reaching this milestone.”
The building will also include a full-blown kitchen — a significant improvement over the residential kitchen in the duplex. The new kitchen will be the first commercial kosher one in Lawrence, which will enable the Tiechtels to more easily and efficiently
make Shabbat and holiday meals. Another anticipated benefit is the opportunity to create additional local kosher food offerings on and off campus.
“The new Chabad House will do so much for Jewish life at KU,” said Robbie Metz, an incoming senior at KU from Colorado Springs, Colorado. “It will be a place where so many more Jewish students will be able to experience the warm welcome that Rabbi and Nechama have shared with decades of Jayhawks.”
The demolition of the duplex is occurring this month, and the new building is expected to be completed by September of 2025.
In celebration of this new venture, KU Chabad will be hosting a groundbreaking event on Sunday, Sept. 8, at 1 p.m. at the site of the future Chabad House: 1203 W. 19th St., Lawrence, KS
66046. The event will include refreshments, music and several keynote speeches from the chancellor of the University of Kansas, elected officials, community leaders and students. More information about the KU Chabad Building Campaign and RSVPing for the groundbreaking event is available at BuildKUChabad.com.
KU Chabad groundbreaking Sunday, Sept. 8, at 1 p.m.
KU Chabad, 1203 W. 19th St., Lawrence, KS 66046
JFS to host ‘Bright Night’ cocktail party
Jewish Family Services (JFS) will hold a “Bright Night” celebration of its work, presented by the Himmelstein family.
“Bright Night” will be a festive cocktail party including lounge-style music by The Crossroads Sound, certified-kosher heavy appetizers, surprises and mingling. The event will be on Thursday, Sept. 26, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the Madrid Theatre (3810 Main St., Kansas City, MO 64111).
There will also be opportunities to further support JFS at the “Bright Night,” including a raffle with prizes and a Fund-A-Need opportunity in which attendees can make a direct impact by contributing to the JFS food pantries.
“Bright Night” will showcase the programs JFS offers to the entire community from its food pantry and KesherKC, including its mental health offerings, chaplaincy and older adult services.
“I feel JFS is the best of the best,” Harry Himmelstein said. “They check all the boxes in what needs to be done for people, and they do it. They provide services before people know [they’re] needed.”
During the evening, longtime JFS volunteer Kelly Somberg will be honored with the Alfred Benjamin Friend of the Family Award for her dedicated work on the agency’s behalf. Named for Alfred Benjamin, JFS’ co-founder and second board president, this award recognizes people whose accomplishments exemplify his compassion, interest in humanity and commitment to improving the quality of life for others.
The “Bright Night” event chairs are Danielle and Jeremy Antes and Lena Price and Tom Cohen. The host committee chairs are Michelle Goldsmith and Stann Tate.
Sponsorships and limited “Bright Night” tickets are available at jfskc.org/ brightnight.
JFS Bright Night
Thursday, Sept. 26, from 5:30 to 8 p.m.
Madrid Theatre, 3810 Main St., Kansas City, MO 64111
Renderings of the exterior and interior of the upcoming new KU Chabad House.
community news
Local Jewish Disability Inclusion Study recommendations announced
Sasone, the Jewish community’s program to support students with diverse needs, recently conducted the first Kansas City Jewish community assessment of disability inclusion needs in conjunction with Matan, a national Jewish disability organization.
“Looking at trends and service issues across the community, the goal was to utilize the Matan study in helping establish a new strategic mission and vision not only for Sasone, but for education and inclusion at large,” Sasone Director Lindsey Lipsky said.
Over several weeks from December through January, Matan staff conducted over 40 meetings with more than 80 individuals. Participants included congregational schools, early childhood centers, Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy, funders, Jewish community professionals, lay leaders, clergy and other Jewish community service providers.
“We are so lucky to have generous and forward-thinking donors who knew what kind of insight this kind of deep
dive could bring,” said Sarah Beren, Sasone Committee chair. “...We can look at how we are being inclusive and ask ourselves if we are doing the most we can for our most vulnerable community members. The Matan study gave us some specific ways to do just that.”
The report from the assessment, “examines — and makes recommendations for — the inclusion of children with disabilities in Jewish educational experiences through the lens of maximizing the many talents of Kansas City’s professionals and lay leaders in order to strengthen and elevate the caliber of professionalism system-wide,” according to Matan.
Multiple new goals and comprehensive recommendations were proposed in the report for the fields of communal structure and personnel; professional development; education change and cultural shift; interagency collaboration and communication; and planning and allocations.
The urgency for better disability in-
Matters of Vision! 2024
clusion programming was spurred by the 2021 Greater Kansas City Jewish community study, which said roughly one in four households include somebody who is limited in their activities by some sort of health issue, special need or disability.
“We know the number of families in our community who haven’t been able to access Jewish life (to the extent that they desire) is probably higher,” Lipsky said. “We will never know the full number, but obviously that disconnect has lasting implications for all of us.”
According to most recent Sasone surveys, 14.5% of students enrolled in formal Jewish education programs have some type of disability that may require accommodations.
“Inclusion is so important, not just because it is a Jewish value but because each of us, as human beings, need to feel a sense of belonging,” Lipsky said. “Largely, our educational spaces are on the forefront of disability support, but in other walks of Jewish communal liv-
ing, including within our congregations and informal learning environments, we may not be as set up for success.”
Jewish Federation staff are considering the recommendations from the study and prioritizing changes that can be made within the next 12-18 months. These include increasing the effectiveness of funding for schools, enhancing professional development and helping our institutions become more welcoming and inclusive.
“Our community is better because we have Sasone,” said Andi Milens, Federation’s chief strategy officer. “For 30 years, we have been able to ensure that all the children of our community can access Jewish education. Now, we can examine what more is needed and identify strategies to make sure everyone knows that they belong in our community.”
Sasone, now nearly 30 years old, is supported by the Jewish Community Foundation and Menorah Heritage Foundation.
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community news
Amid rising campus antisemitism, KU’s DEIB program works to support KU Jewish community
continued from page 1
KU has a relatively large Jewish population: Hillel International ranked KU number 50 in its “Top 60 Public Universities by Jewish Population” list published in Oct. 2023. Hillel estimated that around 1,300 KU students were Jewish at that time, making up 7.2% of KU’s undergraduate student body.
There were also around 100 Jewish graduate students, or 1.9 percent of the graduate student body, according to Hillel’s list.
Dori Jezmir, who was president of KU’s Students Supporting Israel (SSI) chapter on Oct. 7, said the university has felt safer for Jews than many other schools.
While students elsewhere were fearful of anti-Israel encampments, “we felt comfortable going to these encampments and counterprotesting because we knew KU staff was there listening to us and willing to hear us out.”
“I feel like on other campuses, Jewish students didn’t feel heard. And I felt heard,” said Jezmir, a 21-year-old senior.
Dr. Slusky lauded the DEIB office’s attention to detail when it comes to Jewish students’ needs, “like when they had [football game] tailgates and made sure we started early enough on Fridays so that [observant] Jews could come,” as well as when DEIB “set up having frozen kosher meals on campus because they said, ‘this is important.’”
The commitment campus DEIB has made to helping all groups means Jewish and non-Jewish communities alike can support each other.
“We are actually all on the same team here, fighting prejudice and discrimination,” Dr. Slusky said.
Multiple Jewish students and campus community members agreed that DEIB programming has helped foster a more inclusive environment for Jews. However, some also expressed concerns over campus DEIB signing off on the Council on American-Islamic Relations’ (CAIR) conducting KU’s anti-Islamophobia training, an invitation made at the request of members of the campus Muslim community.
Leaders of CAIR, the largest Muslim civil liberties organization in the U.S., “often traffic in openly antisemitic and anti-Zionist rhetoric” and “have also posited that pro-Israel organizations are responsible for U.S. police
brutality, and that ‘Zionists’ and Israel are analogous to the Ku Klux Klan and ISIS,” according to the Anti-Defamation League.
Several interviewees with knowledge of KU’s April 23 anti-Islamophobia training session said the program was beneficial and filled with important information, but voiced concern about the national organization’s perceived bias and remarks by its leaders.
They stressed that many members of KU’s Palestinian and Muslim communities have also felt marginalized since Oct. 7, and that DEIB staff has worked just as hard to promote inclusivity for them as they have Jewish students and faculty.
DEI initiatives have become a cultural flashpoint across the U.S., including in Kansas, where an anti-DEI law passed by state legislators took effect July 1. The law bars state universities and certain other schools from requiring statements from prospective students and job seekers about their views on diversity, equity and inclusion programs.
At the federal level, the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee advanced two Republican-sponsored bills on July 9 aimed at combating campus antisemitism, one of which would levy a fine of $100,000 or more against universities and colleges that have a federal civil judgment entered against them for violating a student’s civil rights under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act.
After three civil rights violations, the IRS would be automatically required to review the college or university’s tax-exempt status for possible revocation.
The DEIB office at KU, which encourages students to report civil rights violations, has previously spoken out forcefully against rising antisemitism. A November 2022 statement issued by the office urged “our campus community to stand against antisemitism and in support of our Jewish Jayhawks.”
“We have been deeply concerned about the rise of antisemitic expression, hate, and violence nationwide, in our own state, and greater Lawrence community - including but not limited to the dissemination of harmful antisemitic tropes and conspiracy theories, Holocaust denial, and even calls to violence,” read the statement,
co-signed by KU’s University Senate, Jewish Studies Program and JFSC.
“By standing up to this form of bigotry, we embody our Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging values as an intellectual community,” the statement read.
Adina Thompson, the current president of SSI, said she had not worked with DEIB staff this past year, but “from what I have seen, I don’t necessarily think they are fostering antisemitism like on other campuses.”
“Personally, I don’t see them doing much to combat it either,” she added.
The 20-year-old junior said she and other Jewish students she’s heard from have felt isolated from peers and classmates since Oct. 7.
“Standing up for Israel is not an easy thing to do… This makes it hard to continue going to and focusing in class and participating in activities when [our] identity is being questioned,” Thompson said.
The university’s Office of Civil Rights and Title IX – hailed by campus DEIB as a key asset for all students – offered academic support to Jewish students amid the anti-Israel protests, said Thompson. She commended the DEIB office’s efforts to make sure Jewish students can miss class on Jewish holidays.
“What would be really helpful coming into this next school year would be the DEIB office meeting with myself or other pro-Israel and Jewish student leaders to hear our experiences and concerns, so that we can go into the school year with that relationship, leading to more support and cooperation,” she added.
DEIB officials have said they are available to meet with any student to discuss their concerns.
Bailey Nakelsky, who was KU Hillel’s interim executive director on Oct. 7, said the DEIB office is educated about Israel and Jewish issues, and “humble enough to admit when they don’t know something to ask for resources, rather than make assumptions.”
“They knew how to pool together the right people with the right knowledge at the right time to be able to make educated decisions” and coordinate resources after Oct. 7, Nakelsky said.
Students and faculty said they were hopeful DEIB’s efforts would help KU’s Jewish community feel safe should more anti-Israel encampments appear in the fall.
More resources for fighting discrimination at KU are also on the way. One of America’s leading educators on fighting antisemitism, Jonah Boyarin, is currently working on materials to fight antisemitism for the university’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Toolbox.
He expects to hold his next KU training session in the fall.
“Understanding antisemitism and fighting it is going to be most successful when it’s done arm and arm with fighting other forms of injustice,” Boyarin said. “There’s definitely more interest across the country in these kinds of trainings [including at KU] compared to five or ten years ago, and that’s a good thing. I just wish that there weren’t more antisemitism happening in this country compared to five or 10 years ago.”
JWV Post 605 awards 2024 scholarships
Jewish War Veterans Post 605 recently completed its 2024 annual scholarship program. This year, the Post issued its largest number of scholarships yet.
For the first time, Post 605 moved to honor some of its past members by naming scholarships after them. “Named Scholarships” awarded were in memory of Aaron Braeman, Marvin Denton, Meyer “Mike” Katzman and Marvin Korn. These were given in addition to the Gertrude Pasmaink
Scholarship and multiple Commander and Post 605 scholarships.
Jewish War Veterans Post 605 is the largest Post in the Midwest Region. It is active in community service in the Kansas City-Leavenworth area; including special awards to local Boy Scout troops, providing honor guards and representing the JWV at various ceremonies.
More information about the Post is available on Facebook at: facebook. com/JWV-605-113534657113204.
community news Applications open for 2024-2025 Leaders for Tomorrow cohort
The Jewish Community Relations Bureau | American Jewish Committee (JCRB|AJC) is now accepting applications from rising high school sophomores, juniors and seniors for the 2024-2025 Leaders for Tomorrow (LFT) cohort, beginning in the fall of 2024.
LFT students will meet monthly on Sundays for interactive, student-centered sessions to learn about and unpack the most pressing issues affecting today’s Jewish teens. The LFT program works to educate young Jewish students to become informed, prepared and effective advocates for themselves, the Jewish community and Israel. It aims to instill in teens the knowledge,
confidence and passion to serve as positive changemakers among their peers, in their communities and beyond.
In the upcoming cohort, students will discuss a variety of topics, including understanding and combating antisemitism in a post-Oct. 7 world; studying the history of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict; identifying challenges and opportunities facing global Jewry; and learning strategic advocacy and coalition building skills.
Leaders for Tomorrow has a lasting impact on students like Max Goldstein, a graduate of the LFT 2023-2024 cohort.
Village Shalom hosting art exhibit highlighting art therapy program
Village Shalom is presenting an art show featuring the creative works of residents involved in its art therapy program.
Running from Aug. 1 to Sept. 8, the exhibit will be held in the Epsten Gallery at Village Shalom (5500 W. 123rd St., Overland Park, KS 66209) and is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Village Shalom Art Therapy Exhibition is supported by the Polsky Family Supporting Foundation and the Epsten Gallery.
Goldstein said that the program “helped inform me about a lot of the history about Israel and Palestine and what the conflict really means. It has also helped me to know more ways and tactics for informing other people and educating them. There have been some people in my life that have been antisemitic and that have hurt my feelings, and now I can confidently respond.”
Over the past five years, nearly 100 Kansas City students have participated in the LFT program, helping them develop a strong Jewish identity and training them as advocates for Israel and voices against antisemitism.
“LFT has helped me learn about new topics relating to Israel that I would not have learned [otherwise],”
said Elia Elli, another 2023-24 LFT cohort member. “LFT also has done a good job of inspiring me to want to learn more because they present the information in a way that is not boring, and I don’t feel like I am being lectured at.”
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, however we urge interested students to apply quickly, before the cohort becomes full. Participants will be selected based on their application and a phone interview. There is no cost to participate.
Applications are available at ajconline.wufoo.com/forms/q1wqabei1au4816. Questions can be directed to JCRB|AJC Director of Education and Programs Sarah Markowitz Schreiber at sarahm@jewishkc.org.
This week’s Chronicle includes a list of the hundreds of generous community members who have made planned gifts to a local Jewish organization or synagogue.
The artwork on display represents the expressions of Village Shalom’s art therapy groups. These groups bring diverse backgrounds, cultures and life experiences to create unique pieces, showcasing a range of media including watercolor, mixed media, collage, reverse glass painting, acrylic, drawing and pour painting.
Art therapy, a cornerstone of Village Shalom’s programming for more than 30 years, offers a therapeutic avenue
for self-expression and exploration. Participants engage with various art materials and methods and are able to discover personal preferences and embrace new techniques.
Julie Roush, Village Shalom’s art therapist, expressed her appreciation for the support of art therapy programming, having said, “The core benefit of the program is for the residents to have a creative outlet to express themselves.”
This exhibition not only celebrates the artistic achievements of the community but also underscores the importance of art therapy in fostering connection and personal growth.
These donors will be honored at Foundation for Our Future, a complimentary event on September 18. The event will feature the Endowment Book of Life signing ceremony and special production of “Tree of Life” by Victor Wishna, part of The J’s White Theatre series
If you’ve made a planned gift to our community, we’d love for you to join the celebration!
Contact Suzanne Galblum Dicken at sdicken@ jcfkc.org or (913) 327-8286 to learn more.
Examples of art created by Village Shalom residents on display at the Epsten Gallery.
commentary
Editorials express the view of the writer and are not necessarily representative of the views of The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle staff, the Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City, or the Kansas City Jewish Community as a whole.
Reflections on my trip to Israel with 200 Jewish campus leaders
By Rabbi Zalman Tiechtel Director of Chabad at KU
Amid rising tensions on college campuses, I recently joined more than 200 Chabad on Campus emissaries from 14 countries for our summer conference in Israel. Holding the meeting in Israel was a powerful demonstration of our shared commitment and solidarity.
I was deeply moved by the experiences we had, witnessing firsthand the pain, courage and resilience of our dear brothers and sisters, and I would like to introduce you to some of them.
Elisha
Elisha was one of the wounded soldiers I visited at Sheba Medical Center, sitting in a wheelchair, missing both his legs. Elisha was in two reserve units, but when the terrorists attacked on Oct. 7, he drove straight for the war zone, asking, “How can I help?” He dodged destroyed cars and carnage, saving lives. Elisha was then put into combat in Gaza, where as a navigator, he sometimes entered dangerous areas first.
“Our unit had Ruach Hashem, a spirit from Hashem, just like it says in the bible,” he said. “We were not afraid. We were ready to die for each other.”
One day, they received intelligence that a Hamas unit was going to attack them from a tunnel. They destroyed it, but it was too late, and the house exploded and collapsed. Elisha and his best friend were evacuated, both losing their legs, and Elisha’s childhood friend didn’t make it. They declared him dead and were about to do the same for Elisha, but some outside force kept him alive. He believes it’s everyone’s prayers for the soldiers from around the world.
In the hospital, his body was non-functional. He couldn’t breathe or drink on his own, but slowly, his faculties returned. He describes the first drink of water, with a blessing, as the greatest thing he has ever tasted.
Now he dreams of getting prosthetics for his legs and going home. He blesses us with appreciation for everything we’re doing on our campuses – being on the “front lines” against antisemitism –which I can’t help but feel is so small in comparison. But he really means it, which is perhaps the greatest compliment any of us has ever received.
Sivan
The day we arrived in Israel was meant to be the wedding night of
a car. He jumped out of the car and lay on the ground alone in no man’s land with bullets whizzing by. He waited hours for help until Oren received their coordinates, found them and pulled them out. He saved their lives that day.
At this place of senseless murder and death, we sang the great declaration of belief and trust in the coming redemption, “Ani Maamin.” We spontaneously broke into a song of Simchat Torah as Noam and Uri hopped onto our shoulders. It felt right to recreate a Simchat Torah moment in a place where our joy had been so horribly violated on this holiday nine months ago.
Shlomo
Sivan’s beloved son, Uri. Sadly, he was killed in Gaza while defending his people. Instead, she hosted a special event in Jerusalem, and we got to be part of it. On what would have been her son’s wedding day, she dedicated the completion of a unique Torah scroll by young, single men and women who were looking for their other half. As the scribe inscribed each sacred letter, he prayed for each one – a book of yearning, hope and prayer.
We sang, danced and heard the soldier’s mother speak deeply moving words. It was heart-wrenching, but she somehow uplifted us by showing us how to channel tears into action. Instead of dancing at her son’s wedding, we danced with thousands of young men and women, blessing them for their future weddings.
Oren and Uri
Oren Laufer is a brave man we met at the Nova Festival site. Chabad on Campus asked me to deliver an address at this site. It was difficult to speak on such sacred ground blanketed with the blood and sacrifice of our brethren. I did my best to speak from the heart and uplift my friends. I then had the honor to introduce Oren. He was a local guy –not a soldier or medic – who had lived in the area his entire life. When he found out what was happening on Oct. 7, he went out with his truck and began ferrying hundreds of people to safety from the festival throughout the entire day. He faced certain death again and again but kept going back, making tens of trips in 12 hours.
Along with Oren, we heard from Uri, an attendee of the Nova Festival who sadly lost two friends while escaping in
One evening we gathered in the beautiful Judean hills to support an incredible group of heroes. We knew we were supposed to have a barbecue with some soldiers, but we didn’t know the details. We discovered that these individuals were from a special unit that deals with the hardest job of all: the Chevra Kadisha, processing bodies and human remains, ensuring proper identification and burial for every Jew. They are on a different kind of front line and have their own types of injuries. As one of them told me in a whisper, “Our unit is not injured in our bodies but in our souls. And it’s not visible from the outside like bodily injuries are, so nobody realizes that it’s there.”
One of my colleagues shared about his efforts to encourage everyone watching the dancing to become participants. Many readily agreed, except for one 7-year-old boy, Shlomo, who was watching with his mother. He was very reticent, and something seemed to bother him. But the rabbi gently persisted, and eventually, the boy went to dance and had a great time.
When he was done, the mother explained. “My son’s father was killed on Oct. 7. We are currently removed from our home by war and live with my family, and my brother is currently serving in Gaza. My son constantly waits to hear bad news about his uncle. Tonight was the first time I saw him smile since his father was killed…”
Rachel and Jon
And finally, my friends, meet Rachel and Jon, the parents of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, a 23-year-old hostage in Gaza. I was deeply moved by their bravery and courage. How can one live
with the knowledge that their son is being held hostage deep underground in Gaza, yet carry their message with dignity, resilience, hope, faith and an enduring message to others to do more?
They are organizing so much – a dedication of a Torah scroll for their son’s release (the money was raised in a week) and a “Week of Good” that started the same day we saw them. Rachel said she was told to “pray like it only depends on Hashem, and work like it only depends on you.” She also mentions that a friend recently gave them a dollar from the Lubavitcher Rebbe, and it turned out to be marked the 4 Tishrei, which happens to be her son Hersh’s birthday.
Spending five days in the Holy Land was a powerful experience. The stories, anecdotes and experiences we had in this short time were profound, painful and inspiring. Every soldier I met, I hugged and embraced with so much love, and everywhere we went, I saw many broken yet strong people. People in the streets kept expressing their gratitude for our visit and support, telling us how this means the world to them, to know that they are not alone in this very difficult struggle.
I now return to our campus at KU with a renewed sense of commitment, intensity and success, empowered by having witnessed the incredible resilience and courage of our people.
You can do your part as well, my friends. Show your support by increasing good deeds and prayers (it really helps) and by sending your financial support. Together we will each do our part to usher in an era of redemption when there will be no pain and sorrow — only peace, goodness and joy will be felt in the air.
Pictured are Rabbi Zalman Tiectel of KU Chabad and Rabbi Avremi Lapine of Chabad at Mizzou in front of the Cave of Machpelah, the burial site of Jewish patriarchs and matriarchs in Hebron, Israel.
Editorials express the view of the writer and are not necessarily representative of the views of The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle staff, the Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City, or the Kansas City Jewish Community as a whole.
By Sami Sandler KC Leaders for Tomorrow Alumna
Leaders of today, shaping the future
Disgusted, scared, confused and angry are all words to describe my feelings about our world post-Oct. 7, the day of the Hamas invasion of southern Israel and mass murder of over 1,200 Israelis.
Moved, powerful, hopeful and proud all describe my feelings after attending the 2024 American Jewish Committee (AJC) Global Forum in Washington, D.C.
I participated in Jewish Community Relation Bureau | American Jewish Committee’s KC Leaders for Tomorrow (LFT) cohort this past school year, and I gained extensive knowledge about the State of Israel, Jewish history and antisemitism. LFT was a platform for me to develop my Jewish identity and connect with other young Jewish leaders.
This June, I attended AJC’s Global Forum as a LFT alumna. The conference consisted of more than 2,000 Jewish and non-Jewish leaders, both teenagers and adults. There was ongoing programming in the form of panels, plenaries and advocacy-in-action meals
where groups got to listen to speakers during lunch.
During the general sessions, a segment titled “Heros of Israel” made the biggest impact on my experience. AJC brought the parents of American hostage Omer Neutra, Druze-Israeli mother Nasreen Youseff, and others to share their stories about Oct. 7. These brave spirits didn’t sit in their bunkers and went out into the terror to save countless lives. Their strength and commitment to the Jewish State of Israel made me feel empowered to stop sitting and watching the news or scrolling on social media and start to actively advocate for the Jewish people and stand up for what I believe in.
Another key part of my experience was hearing from several college students who have dealt with severe cases of antisemitism on campus, including Noa Fay from Columbia Barnard Hillel. Fay expressed how even though she was forced to face numerous acts of antisemitism, she stayed true to the “Core Jewish spirit [of] strength, determination and hope.” As I begin to think about what colleges I may want to attend, a new layer of consideration arises: how present is antisemitism, and is there support for Jewish students?
This reality set in when I was walking to dinner with our Kansas City
obituaries
Jerome Harold Efron
Jerome Harold
“Yosef Hershel”
Efron died in his sleep at the age of 100 with his son and beloved daughter-in-law at his side.
Jerry was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Max and Helen Efron. He served with honor in the U.S. Navy in the Pacific in World War II. He graduated from the University of Minnesota and joined his father in the garment industry, selling thread to manufacturers.
Jerry married Beatrice Serber in 1948. A very devoted couple, they raised their two sons devoted to family and Jewish values. The family moved
to Johnson County, Kansas, in 1951, and Jerry continued in the thread trade until the 1980s, followed by 25 years doing tax return preparation.
Jerry and Bea were active members at Kehilath Israel Synagogue. He served for years on behind-the-scenes committees such as Bikur Cholim, visiting the sick. His service was always meaningful but never showy.
In 2016, after the death of his beloved wife and oldest son Bruce, Jerry moved to Baltimore, Maryland, to be with his son Mike (Menashe) and extended family.
Jerry is survived by his son Menashe and his beloved daughter-in-law, Bari Tulchinsky Efron; his grandchildren Erica (Matt) Barnes, Joshua Efron, Ruhama Efron, Noam (Leah) Efron, Hillel (Rivkah) Efron, Merav Levine, Libi (Yaakov) Frager and Ben-Zion continued on next page
delegation, the largest-ever group from Kansas City to attend the Global Forum. As we exited the conference hotel, we were faced with about half a dozen protesters cheering and yelling “Free, free Palestine” and “Shame on you for all the murder that you do” while holding signs that read “Zionism is Terrorism.” This unexpected confrontation made me uncomfortable and scared. I had seen similar protests on social media, but hearing those chants be screamed at me was much more intimidating. Speaking with my sister Emma Sandler, who also attended with me, she told me they were only trying to get under our skin and that it is my responsibility to not let them.
AJC’s 2024 Global Forum focused on “Shaping the Future,” and I can confidently say that they succeeded in doing so. While speaking to the LFT attendees, AJC CEO Ted Deutch said, “You are not leaders for tomorrow anymore. You are the leaders of today.” I plan to take this knowledge and passion that I gained from AJC and LFT
throughout my life, especially this next school year, as I know I will most likely encounter more antisemitism than ever before in my life. Being involved with JCRB|AJC helped shape who I am and who I want to be. I am proud and excited to also have the opportunity to share what I’ve learned with my peers in BBYO and elsewhere.
So yes, being disgusted, scared, confused and angry are all valid emotions to have in tragic times like now, but so is being proud, hopeful and empowered to be a Jewish person in a community that stands strong together against all else. In this spirit, I find new courage to continue to be the strong Jewish leader I am and be more public about it. I will keep writing, posting and discussing my views. Whether it be about antisemitism or my passion for the Jewish State of Israel, I will be loud and proud, because now is the time to be.
Sami Sandler is a KC Leaders for TomorrowalumnaandpresidentofKansasCityBBYO.
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(Ilana) Efron; 30 great and great-great grandchildren and legions who will follow; very beloved sister-in-law Adele Sherman; and devoted nephews and nieces.
Jerry Efron was a man who impressed everyone with his ability to watch his words carefully. When he spoke, it was with gentle wisdom and good humor. He inspired his descendants with the imperative to be honest, helpful, patient and engaged with the Jewish community. May his memory be a blessing for all.
Online condolences for the family may be left at louismemorialchapel. com.
Leah Mikhael Koesten
obituaries
Over the course of 12 years, Leah built a wonderful community of friendship in her adopted home of Nashville. She was an active member of a strong recovery community, recently celebrating her 12th year in recovery.
She was also a passionate and proud member of the Nashville Symphony Chorus. Her friends from the alto section nourished her during her cancer treatment with many home visits, phone calls and meals. Her director, Dr. Biddlecomb, shared his notes about Leah’s audition when he notified the alto section of Leah’s passing: “beautiful voice, but difficult to classify. She’ll fit wherever she ends up going.” Singing with the chorus sustained Leah in so many ways over the years, and her family is forever grateful to the people in this organization.
rial Chapel in North Lauderdale, Florida. The family received condolences at their home in Boynton Beach following the service.
A celebration of Leah’s life will be held on Sunday, Aug. 11, in Nashville.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in her memory to The Joy and Stewart Koesten Endowed Professorship in Developmental and Behavioral Health (support. childrensmercy.org/LeahKoesten) and/or the Nashville Symphony Chorus (donate2.app/IAkYVL).
While the family’s hearts are broken from this sudden loss, they are comforted knowing that Leah’s spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched, a reminder of the profound impact one dedicated and loving individual can have on the world.
King Lumber Company.
He served as president of the Jewish Community Foundation from 1991 to 1994. He was an honorary member of the Tribe of Mic-O-Say; a lifetime member of The Temple, Congregation B’nai Jehudah; and a founding member of Congregation Beth Torah. He also served as chairman/trustee of the Tranin Fund, a trustee for the Lowenstein Brothers Foundation and a trustee of the Lowenstein Family Supporting Foundation.
It is with profound sadness that the Koesten family announces the passing of their beloved daughter, Leah Mikhael Koesten, a dedicated mental health counselor, skilled substance abuse counselor and compassionate relationship coach.
Leah fought bravely over the last 15 months against stage three, triple-negative breast cancer and ultimately died of complications from her treatment on July 28, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering commitment to improving the lives of those she served.
Leah earned a Bachelor of Business Administration and Management degree from Washburn University in Topeka, Kansas, and a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from the University of West Alabama in Livingston, Alabama.
Leah was a beacon of generosity, kindness and understanding, dedicated to developing her role as a provisionally licensed therapist with Rebecca Wilson Therapy and Counseling Services in Nashville, Tennessee. Her professional journey was informed by her lifelong struggle with depression and anxiety, which gave her a deep-seated passion for helping others navigate their own personal trauma and emotional struggles.
Leah’s life experience, subsequent training in substance abuse counseling and certification as a relationship coach allowed her to offer a unique and empathetic approach to therapy, impacting countless lives with her insightful guidance and heartfelt support.
Leah’s dedication extended far beyond the confines of her professional practice. Her genuine compassion and desire to make a difference were evident in every interaction. She approached each person she met with an open heart and a commitment to their wellbeing, earning the respect and admiration of friends, colleagues and clients alike.
Leah loved crime shows and psychological thrillers, and she was fascinated with the human psyche. She was loving, kind, generous, always fashionably dressed, funny, smart, and had a twisted sense of humor.
Leah was intolerant of hate, bigotry and meanness. She was a definitive “cat lady” and was excited about voting for Kamala Harris in the upcoming election.
Leah’s legacy is one of hope, resilience and the power of compassionate care. Her work not only helped individuals heal and grow but also inspired those around her to approach life with greater empathy and understanding. Leah’s light and dedication will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and working with her.
Leah is survived by her parents, Stewart and Joy Koesten of Boynton Beach, Florida; her sister, Natalie, brother-in-law, Thom Hoskins, and their children, Nikko and Arthur Hoskins of Murfreesboro, Tennessee; and her grandfather Glenn Erna Barclay of Springfield, Missouri; as well as aunts, uncles and cousins.
Leah was preceded in death by her grandparents, Herman and Lotte Koesten of Stony Point, New York; and her grandmother Carol Lee Crabtee Barclay of Springfield.
A graveside service for Leah was held on Aug. 2 at Star of David Memo-
William “Bill” B. Lowenstein
William “Bill” B. Lowenstein, 97, of Leawood, Kansas, passed away on July 30. Funeral services were on Aug. 2 at Congregation Beth Torah, followed by interment at Rose Hill Cemetery.
Bill held a deep belief in the value of the Jewish camping experience for children throughout the Jewish community. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Camp GUCI (guci.org/); Camp OSRUI (osrui.org/ donate); Camp Sabra (campsabra. com/support); and the Guardian Society Scholarship Fund (tinyurl.com/3x8hxu3p)
Bill was born on Aug. 13, 1926, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Louis and Gladys (Bobrecker) Lowenstein. He attended Border Star School, Southwest High School and the University of Kansas.
He wanted to get some college before enlisting in the military, so he attended summer school at KU. He enlisted in 1943 and, while in the U.S. Navy, he was stationed in Chicago, where he was enrolled in an electronics program dealing with radar and sonar on naval vessels. He was also stationed in California, Guam and the Eniwetok Atoll.
After World War II, Bill returned to the University of Kansas, where he majored in business and accounting, graduating in 1948. He went to work for Arthur Young & Co. Later, he worked in the family businesses, including the
Bill was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Louis Lowenstein, Jr. He is survived by his wife, Barbara Epstein Lowenstein; his sons, Lon and Suzy (Overland Park, Kansas), Glenn and Nicole (Houston, Texas), John and Amy (Skokie, Illinois) and Reed and Melanie (Brooklyn, New York); and Jenny and John Isenberg, Lynn and Joe Poskin, and Andy and Anne Epstein; his sister, Marjorie Kaplan (Minneapolis, Minnesota); as well as his 25 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.
Online condolences for the family may be left at louismemorialchapel. com.
Jesse C. Newman passed away on July 10, 2024.
He was born May 12, 1942, to Jesse and Maxine Newman in Lawrence, Kansas. His mother taught him to read at the age of three and created a huge desire for books. At 14, he started flying lessons with Pat Patterson, cousin and Tuskegee Airman, and he was licensed at 16.
He graduated from Lawrence High School in 1960, where he played football. He attended University of Kansas, majoring in piano and East Asian studies, Japanese history and anthropology. He also played football on KU’s first bowl team on Dec. 17, 1961, that won the third annual Bluebonnet Bowl in Houston, Texas, 33-7.
In spring of 1962, he purchased his first Jaguar, a 1954 XK120 drop-head coupe. He owned six other Jaguars and a 2007 Aston Martin Vantage. He also owned three single-engine Cessna airplanes and his dream plane, a Mitsubishi MU-2, for 27 years. Mostly traveling to Japan and Israel, he flew to 73
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Jesse C. Newman
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countries with Coca-Cola and flew for three commercial airlines and private charters.
Jesse entered the U.S. Navy Reserves in 1963, went on active duty in 1965 and flew three tours in Vietnam, staying in the Reserves until 1993.
In 1969, he invested in commodities, soybeans and OTC stocks, and, in 1973, followed that experience with the founding of Newman Securities Company, Inc., in an effort to become the first minority firm on the Midwest Stock Exchange. By 1975, Newman Securities Company specialized in selling banks in Kansas, Missouri, Kentucky, Arkansas, Iowa, Florida, Colorado and Texas. From 1984 through 2018, he initiated development of hotel and office complexes for Kansas City, Kansas; Nassau, Bahamas; and Kansas City, Missouri.
He founded the Japanese Cultural Arts Festival at UMKC (now at Johnson County Community College), which has continued since 1999. He became enmeshed with the Japanese through his work at founding the Japanese Cultural Arts Foundation in 2004, a $70 million real estate project with Japanese gardens and buildings on 500 acres in Johnson County, Kansas. He published many editorials in local papers — The Kansas City Star, The Lawrence Journal-World and The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle — and multiple books: “Essays on Humanity and History” in 1968; “Local Sports Hero” in 2010; “Can There Be Lasting Peace in the Middle East?” in 2009; “The Hated Outsiders” in 2010; and “History of Kyodo and Iaido” in 2015. Another book “The History of Movement of Populations” is pending publication. He was a guest lecturer with Dr. Felix Moos, professor at KU, with position papers, panels at junior colleges and lectures at many universities across the United States. In 2018, he was invited and accepted a KU mentorship for business and history.
In 1973, he was chairman of the first Kansas City Jaguar Concours Classic. He loved racing SCCA and going to Grand Prix, Formula 1 and Reno Air races.
He was recognized for his powerlifting championships by the U.S. Powerlifting Federation in 1989 for the Kansas state record, having lifted a total of 1,218 pounds in three lifts. In 2004, he won the Kansas state record, American national record and world record for bench pressing 395 pounds in the 60-64 age group.
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He also loved jazz and books — his library comprised over 700 books of history, math, sciences, economics and finance. Beginning in 2018, the Spencer Research Library at KU archived all his business and other materials.
He was a member of many associations, including Kansas Alumni; K Club; Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association; The Tailhook Association; National Association of Flight Instructors; Heart of America Japan-American Society; Popular Culture Association; U. S. Karate Association; National Association of Japan-America Societies; and U.S.A. National Karate-do Federation (where he won 14 gold, five silver and three bronze medals). The Native American Nations of the United States of America honored Jesse with the Warriors Medal of Valor in 2013, presented at Haskell Nations University Lawrence, Kansas.
The greatest impact on his life was his conversion to Orthodox Judaism in May of 1969, and secondly, all the reading of histories, science and math opened his mind to really being able to think and question about this planet, deep space and universes beyond.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Cheryl; three daughters, Aviva, Shira and Ruth; brother, Kenneth; six grandchildren; and Sean Edinger, the man whom he regarded as the son he never had.
Professor Rue Cromwell, Ph.D, of KU wrote, “Those who knew Jesse were impressed that his life experiences led a defense of his minority status with both intellectual and physical prowess. Yet this identity was superseded by a loving and giving approach to all humankind. This unique quality will be greatly missed.”
Funeral services were held on July 24 at the Louis Memorial Chapel, followed by burial at Oak Hill Cemetery in Lawrence. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to Kehilath Israel Synagogue.
Barbara Joan Schlosberg
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Barbara was born Jan. 1, 1940, to the late Max and Gertrude Green in Bronx, New York City, New York. She graduated from DeWitt Clinton High School and married Stewart Schlosberg in 1958. Even after a move to California in 1974, she remained a New Yorker at heart. Barbara and Stewart then had an extended stay in Prescott Valley, Arizona, before moving to Kansas in 2021 to be close to family.
Barbara was an avid reader and loved music. You would be hard pressed to find a bigger fan of Barbra Streisand, Tony Bennett or Lady Gaga.
Barbara was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Richard Green. She is survived by her husband of 66 years, Stewart; sons and daughter in-law, Marc and Barbara Schlosberg of Leawood and David Schlosberg and Sheila Clancy of Sydney, Australia; and her granddaughters (who were the loves of her life after having two sons), Rachael, Sarah, Mira and Valerie.
The family would like to extend special appreciation to Shawnee Cecil and Dawn Callow of Kansas City Hospice and to the staff of Synergy Homecare. Condolences may be shared at louismemorialchapel.com.
Janice Ricks Schneiderman
Janice Ricks Schneiderman passed away on Aug. 4. She was born on Nov. 13, 1937, and lived in Omaha, Nebraska.
Jan will be most remembered as a community volunteer leader and a loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She was preceded in death by her husband, Les Schneiderman, and parents, Sally Stein Ricks and Morris Ricks. Jan is survived by her children, Robin (Ken) Baer; Debbie (Steve) Trenton of Kansas City; Scott (Heidi) Schneiderman; seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
memorial service on Aug. 7 at Temple Israel in Omaha. Donations may be made to Temple Israel, 13111 Sterling Ridge Dr., Omaha, NE 68144, or the National Council of Jewish Women, 2055 L Street Suite 650, Washington, D.C. 20036.
Herbert Spiegel
Herbert Spiegel, known to friends and family as Herb and Herbie, was born on April 24, 1940, in Kansas City, Missouri, and passed peacefully on July 29 at the age of 84. A beloved father, war veteran and proud member of the Jewish community, Herb’s life was marked by service, adventure and family.
Herb proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy as an electronics engineer. After his military service, he found a fulfilling career in business finance, helping small business owners secure the financing they needed for growth.
A true adventurer at heart, Herb had a passion for sailing, travel and experiencing diverse cultures. Some of his most cherished memories were the sailing trips he took with his first wife, Linda Filippone, and their sons, Kevin and Aaron. Herb’s love for travel was further enriched by his second wife, Joanne. Joanne was his main traveling partner but also brought immense joy and companionship into his life through their shared adventures cruising to Alaska, exploring the rich histories of Europe and embracing the vibrant cultures of South America. Whether sailing or exploring new destinations, Herb found joy in meeting people from all walks of life and immersing himself in the local cultures and histories.
Herb Spiegel’s life was a testament to hard work, dedication and the joy of exploration. He will be deeply missed
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Barbara Joan Schlosberg, 84, of Leawood, Kansas, died on July 30. Memorial services were held on Aug. 2 at Town Village of Leawood. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to Kansas City Hospice House, 12000 Wornall Rd., Kansas City, MO
A private burial was followed by a
Kansas City’s Jewish Funeral Home Over 104 years
by all who knew him.
He is survived by his two devoted sons, Kevin Spiegel and Aaron Spiegel. He is also survived by two brothers, Alan and Phil; his sister-in-law, Shirley; his first wife, Linda Filippone; and his four grandsons, who brought him great joy. Herb was predeceased by his wife Joanne and brother Marshal. His extended family and friends will remember him fondly for his resilience, integrity and the love he shared with those closest to him.
A memorial service with full military honors for Herbert was held on Aug. 2 at Mt Moriah, Newcomer & Freeman Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Dementia Society of America, P.O. Box 600, Doylestown, PA 18901.
Lorraine Claire Mednik Stiffelman
Lorraine Claire Mednik Stiffelman, beloved daughter of Della and Maury Mednik, Lorraine passed peacefully at 103.
Born Lorraine Claire Mednik in St. Louis, Missouri, on July 5, 1921, she attended Sophie Newcomb College in New Orleans, Louisiana, and graduated from Washington University in St. Louis. She lived in Kansas City after her marriage to Lester Stiffelman, her devoted husband.
Everybody loved Lorraine. Growing up a shy girl, she overcame her shyness to hold so many positions of service in the community. Her long, rich life made for a long resumé. Even a partial list is encyclopedic — they included:
Past president of The Temple, Congregation B’nai Jehudah (the first woman to hold that position); former president of Temple Sisterhood; former vice president of National Federation of Temple Sisterhoods (now called Women of Reform Judaism); past vice-president of District #20 National Federation of Temple Sisterhoods; former member of the Board of Trustees of the Union of American Congregations; member of North American Board of the World Union for Progressive Judaism; member of Women’s Division Board of Jewish Federation and Yad b’Yad Committee; former vice president of Women’s Division; founding chairman of Jewish Family Commission; former member
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of Federation Board of Trustees.
Additionally, she served on Advisory Boards of the National Conference of Community and Justice and the Jewish Community Relations Bureau|American Jewish Committee; and was a past board member of Jewish Vocational Services, Jewish Education Council and Hadassah. She also served as a former member of the board of National Council of Jewish Women and producer and director of its “Entertainmobile” for 15 years, performing at nursing homes throughout the area.
She was also a former member of the board of Family and Children’s Services of Greater Kansas City and chairman of its Plays for Living program; former board member and secretary of the Museum Without Walls; recipient of awards from Voluntary Action Center and the Whitney M. Young Urban League Guild; docent at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and member of the Society of Fellows of the Nelson Gallery.
She is survived by her three children: Neal and his wife, Ellen Modell; Gary Scott Stiffelman and his wife, Carmen Stiffelman; and Susan Stiffelman and her husband, Paul Stanton; and by her grandchildren: Naomi Stiffelman and her husband, Ivan Schneider; Bess Stiffelman; and Oscar Stiffelman and his wife, Kamila Dmowska, and their son, Henri; Ethan Stiffelman; Lyssa Stiffelman and her husband, Hadar Berkman; and Ari Andersen and his wife, Annie Steele.
Lester passed away in 1993. She moved to Los Angeles in 2013.
Margaret Ann “Peggy” Titens
Margaret Ann “Peggy” Titens, 89, of Dallas, Texas, died on Aug. 1, 2024. A graveside funeral service was held on Aug. 6 at Rose Hill Cemetery.
Peggy was born on June 17, 1935, to the late Max and Martha Glick in Youngstown, Ohio. She attended Boston University and then graduated with a bachelor’s degree in education from the Ohio State University.
After college, she moved to Cleveland to pursue her career as an art teacher. There she met a young lawyer, Sherman Titens, who would be the love of her life and husband of 55 years. Sherman, Peggy and their young family moved to Los Angeles in 1969 and to Overland Park, Kansas, in 1973. After Sherman’s death in 2014, Peggy moved to Dallas and gracefully battled both Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
Peggy was an avid needlepointer, a shrewd Pan player, an excellent cook who would share her recipes with anyone who asked, an April Fools’ Day prankster, a night owl who always waited up for the kids to come home, an art enthusiast and ice cream lover. She regularly volunteered her time to the Brandeis Book Sale and other causes. More importantly, Peggy was a devoted wife, steadfast supporter of her children and grandchildren, and dear friend. Much to her embarrassment, her friends called her “Peggy the Good” because of her kindness, ever-present smile and knack for always doing the right thing.
Peggy was preceded in death by her parents, her husband and her daughter Stacey Titens Wizig. She is survived
daughter Joan (Jeffrey Mettel) Titens; grandchildren Marissa (Andrew) Klegman, Hayley Wizig and Josh Titens; brother, Seymour Glick; and son-inlaw Howard Wizig.
Kindly omit flowers; the family suggests contributions to The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City.
Condolences may be shared at louismemorialchapel.com.
Margo Joy Zwick
Margo Joy Zwick passed away on July 18, in Phoenix, Arizona, just a few days before her 72nd birthday.
The daughter of Nathan and Charlotte Zwick, she was born July 26, 1952, in Knoxville, Tennessee. The youngest of four children, including oldest brother Mark and twin brothers Arvin and Irvin, she was raised in Cincinnati, Ohio.
As an adult, Margo was fortunate to live in and experience the beauty of Colorado before moving to Arizona more than 20 years ago to be closer to her parents. She enjoyed being an aunt and was grateful she was able to live in the Kansas City area for several years after her niece Heather, the daughter of Arvin and his wife, Tammy, was born.
Margo was preceded in death by her parents and her brother Irvin. She is survived by her brother Mark Zwick; brother and sister-in-law Arvin and Tammy Zwick, all of Overland Park; niece Heather Zwick Pohlman and her husband Andrew Pohlman of Frisco, Texas; and a great-nephew and a greatniece.
Margo will be buried in Phoenix. Contributions in her memory may be
