In this issue...
KC Jewish Film Series to screen “Bad Shabbos”
JCF to hold youth philanthropy fair
Artist Hanoch Piven leads kids’ workshops
Parashat Ki Tisa
Shabbat times (Overland Park): Candlelighting: 7:07 p.m.
Havdalah: 8:06 p.m.
Stanley J. Bushman, philanthropist and investor, dies at age 96
By The Chronicle staff
Local Jewish philanthropist and real estate investor Stanley J. Bushman died at age 96 on March 7, leaving a legacy of generosity and support for his community.
Bushman’s impact on the Kansas City Jewish community has been continuous and influential. Bushman notably served as the president of the Jewish Community Foundation (JCF) from 1997 to 2000 (later being named a life trustee) and was a key funder in Village Shalom’s senior care facility in 2000, the entrance of which bears his name. His establishment of the Stanley J. Bushman Charitable Supporting Foundation (housed at JCF) facilitated frequent donations to numerous Jewish and Kansas City community organizations over the past few decades.
Bushman also founded the Bushman Community Endowment Program in 2007, led by Bushman and Merilyn Berenbom in partnership with JCF. The program aimed to train congregations and agencies on the tools and
Andi Milens retires after decades of supporting
Jewish communities
By Sam Kricsfeld Editor
Andi Milens, whose career has led her to help Jews around the world, has retired from Jewish professional life. She concluded her nearly 30year career at the end of February, stepping down from her most recent position as chief strategy officer of Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City.
Milens, the daughter of Michael (z”l) and Sharon Milens, credits her parents for shaping her values and her involvement in Jewish life. She became a bat mitzvah and was confirmed at Congregation Beth Shalom, and she said that Judaism “was always an important part of who we were.”
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techniques of planned giving. This program resulted in more than 440 donors committing in excess of $40 million, with Bushman calling it “the best investment I ever made in my life.”
Due to his support and endowment through JCF, Bushman was included in the organization’s Endowment Book of Life and was quoted as saying, “Help others while you are living — when you are gone, you won’t know what you did — and you will have missed the fun.”
Bushman’s philanthropy has touched many community agencies — his $6 million unrestricted donation ($2 million each) to Jewish Family Services of Greater Kansas City, Jewish Vocational Service of Kansas City and Village Shalom in 2022 being just one example.
“I can’t imagine a Village Shalom
without Stan,” said former Village Shalom executive director Matt Lewis.
Bushman’s generosity was also felt by Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City, to which he donated nearly $2 million during his lifetime.
“He was a pillar of generosity and leadership in our community and a true philanthropic role model,” Federation President and CEO Jay Lewis said. “Through his support, Stan helped shape the future of Jewish Kansas City in ways that will be felt for generations.”
In addition to his philanthropic acumen, Bushman was a skilled investor and businessman. His career began by acquiring apartment buildings, followed by additional real estate ventures and investments. He was a business partner with Charley Helzberg for more than six decades in the real estate field.
His success led him to be recognized by multiple mayors of Kansas City as a member of the Kansas City Housing Authority. He told The Chronicle in 2002 that “the greatest source of wealth in this country is real estate.”
Bushman is survived by his partner of 59 years, Ann Canfield; niece and nephew Jill Goodman of St. Louis, Missouri, and Todd Goodman of Newport Beach, California; and his impactful legacy in the Kansas City Jewish community. Bushman’sobituaryisonpage18.
KU gets a B on antisemitism report card, but some challenge criteria
By Grace Hills Kansas Reflector
The Chronicle thanks the Kansas Reflector (kansasreflector.com) for permission to republish this article.
A new Anti-Defamation League report assessing how 135 U.S. colleges address antisemitism gave the University of Kansas a B — reduced because of
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Andi Milens
Stanley J. Bushman
Anti-Israel protestors gather at the University of Kansas in May of 2024. (Charles Lachman)
It is important to remember and stand in solidarity with those still held hostage by Hamas:
Rinthalak
Tal Chaimi
Tamar Gutman
Tamir Adar
Thawatchai Saethao
Uriel Baruch
Yair Yaakov
Yehudit Weinstein
Yonatan Samerano
Yossi Sharabi
KU
gets
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a B on antisemitism report card, but some challenge criteria groups.”
The reports analyzed how the universities responded to antisemitic acts and how university policies actively fight antisemitism — but some student groups and a professor at KU questioned the classification of “anti-Zionist student groups” as antisemitic.
While the majority of schools received a C or lower, nationally there was an improvement from last year’s report. The ADL, a Jewish anti-hate organization, surveyed 50 more schools in 2025 than in 2024 — including KU — and found that 36% of schools received an A or B in 2025 compared to 23.5% in 2024. The ADL found that 45% of previously graded schools improved, while 9% declined.
The antisemitic incidents were reported by Jewish students on campus and ranked on their level of concern. Jordan Kadosh, the regional director of ADL Heartland, said there’s a difference between criticism of Israel’s policies or response to war and opposing Israel’s right to exist.
“I think that you have to understand that a lot of this rhetoric that supports the elimination of the state of Israel relies on antisemitic tropes,” Kadosh said. “Denying the state of Israel’s right to exist and employing antisemitic tropes and antisemitic rhetoric in order to advocate for that position is where this falls into the antisemitism category.”
Lacey Storer Assistant
Rabbi Zalman Tiechtel, co-director of KU Chabad, said he has had conversations with KU’s administration on how KU can be a safe campus for Jewish students.
“Many students, many organizations, and many individuals like to hide behind that claim,” Rabbi Tiechtel said. “They like to say, ‘We’re not antisemitic, we’re anti-Zionist.’ It’s very important to stress that many of the sentiments that have been expressed on campuses across the country and that have been expressed here at KU over the last year and a half have been antisemitic.”
The ADL’s 30-point grading system categorized university responses into three areas. The “Jewish life on campus” category was all positive, the “publicly disclosed administrative actions” category had some yellow flags and the “campus conduct and climate concerns” pinged “level of hostile anti-Zionist student groups” as a red flag.
KU Students for Justice in Palestine, a pro-Palestinian group,
has organized multiple protests in Lawrence — including the encampment on KU’s campus last May.
KU Students for Justice in Palestine promoted the encampment as anti-Zionist — as an act against Israel’s occupation, not in hatred of Jewish people — while the ADL flagged it as antisemitic.
Rabbi Tiechtel said some of the rhetoric used in chants at the encampment, like “from the river to the sea” promoted hostility toward Jewish people.
Jessie Duke, executive director of the Ecumenical Campus Ministries, which helped plan and supply the encampments, said this isn’t a fair assessment.
“Antisemitism on college campuses is a serious concern that needs to be addressed. Calling criticism of the state of Israel ‘antisemitic’ denies Palestinians their humanity,” Duke said.
The university put a policy in place in February of 2024 prohibiting camping, meaning protesters are not allowed to stay past 10 p.m. When protesters in May stayed past that deadline, three were arrested. Law enforcement confiscated protest signs, cases of water and tents from the site.
“The police did not have probable cause to arrest them, so it was not fair that they were arrested,” said Dan Curry, an attorney for the student protestors. “These three students should not have
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Memorial Carillon and Campanile in Lawrence, Kansas.
Kansas City Jewish Film Series to screen “Bad Shabbos”
The Kansas City Jewish Film Series (KCJFS) will start its 2025 season with a screening of the 2024 Tribeca Film Festival Audience Award Winner “Bad Shabbos.” It will be shown at The Lewis & Shirley White Theatre on Tuesday, March 18, at 7 p.m.
The dark comedy follows two couples — Abby and Benjamin, and David and recently-converted-to-Judaism Meg — who return home for Shabbat dinner and experience an unexpected shadow looming over their night. An accidental death (or possible murder) threatens to unravel the whole evening. Over the course of one night during this New York City Shabbos, their family get-together takes a turn for the worse.
The film features Kyra Sedgewick, Cliff “Method Man” Smith, David Paymer, Milana Vayntrub, Jon Bass, Meghan Leathers, Catherine Curtin
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been arrested, and their charges were dropped.”
Duke says the university’s response was unfair.
“The crackdown on the encampments was clearly an attack on free speech,” Duke said. “The framing of students fighting against genocide as being ‘antisemitic’ is a diversion and a disingenuous starting point.”
Don Haider-Markel, a political science professor at KU, said that while he formerly used the ADL as a data source, he has become hesitant because of their interpretation of antisemitism. He referenced the Oct. 7, 2023, attacks by Palestinian terrorist group Hamas on Israel.
Haider-Markel’s concerns are part of a national debate on whether the ADL has lost credibility on antisemitism since the Oct. 7, 2023, attacks.
“Beginning last year, they really began to classify incidents that are anti-Israel as or anti-Zionist as being antisemitic — equating them as one in the same,” Haider-Markel said. “I just don’t think that’s a fair way to characterize protests against the (Israel Defense Forces’) actions in Gaza.”
Jake Kurz, the director of ADL communications, said the ADL does not conflate anti-Israel protests with antisemitism — shown in their methodology.
and Ashley Zuckerman.
“We are so excited to present ‘Bad Shabbos,’ a film unlike any we’ve screened,” KCJFS Director Stacey Belzer said. “I began laughing out loud at the two-minute mark and never
stopped. With a star-studded cast, ‘Bad Shabbos’ has been the opening film at many of the largest Jewish film festivals around the country and has been an enormous success, selling out most screenings. The Jewish month of Adar invites us to embrace more joy and laughter while coming together. What better way to celebrate this sentiment than by sharing this comedy film with our community?”
Tickets to see “Bad Shabbos” can be purchased at kcjfs.org.
The second installment of the KCJFS will be at The White Theatre on Sunday, June 8, with the “Shorts in Shorts” series. The day will feature a collection of short films spanning a variety of genres.
JFS seeking donations for March period products drive
“Bad Shabbos”
Tuesday, March 18, at 7 p.m.
The White Theatre, 5801 W 115th St., Overland Park, KS 66211
“Legitimate political protest, support for Palestinian rights or expressions of opposition to Israeli policies are not included in the audit,” Kurz said. “For example, post-Oct. 7, ADL reviewed more than 1,800 anti-Israel protests, and about 25% were found to focus on legitimate criticism of Israel and were not included.”
After the report card was released, the ADL began its “Never is Now” summit in New York City to combat antisemitism. The ADL hosted Washington University in St. Louis chancellor Andrew Martin, who prohibited encampments on campus.
He said that time, place and manner restrictions were essential for encouraging equal free speech and to not disrupt education.
“The rules we have are not there to stifle opinion. In fact, we want opinions lifted up. But at the same time, we need to focus on the mission. Teaching needs to continue,” Martin said. “One of the issues we saw on many campuses last year is we have rules, but we had campus leaders who chose not to follow them.”
Duke, the executive director of the Ecumenical Campus Ministries, said encampments nationwide were held to a different standard than a typical protest.
“The university encampments, across the board, were met dispropor-
tionately with force and repression,” Duke said. “The students at KU and across the country put themselves on the line. What they wanted was to be heard. The conversation focusing on this ADL grading system demonstrates that the students were not heard.”
Rabbi Tiechtel said the KU protests were often disruptive and hateful. He said the university’s response to the encampment was fair.
“The KU administration is very supportive of the Jewish community, has been very responsive and has done a tremendous amount — both on the front lines and largely behind the scenes — ensuring that Jewish students feel safe and comfortable on campus since Oct. 7,” Rabbi Tiechtel said.
In recent months, he said, conversations have become less hostile, and that Jewish students have become
This month, JFS is standing with the Alliance of Period Supplies to work to end period poverty through its “Go with the Flow” period product drive. JFS is asking for donations of various period products including tampons, pads, liners and menstrual cups.
Donors can also purchase items through the JFS Pantry Wish List on Amazon (amzn.to/3XH5v7Z), their preferred online retailer or via a financial contribution to the pantry at jfskc.org/donate.
JFS is encouraging individuals, businesses, organizations, schools, youth groups and neighborhoods to consider hosting a drive this month. JFS can drop off barrels or totes for collection and pick up the donations at the conclusion of a drive.
More information is available by contacting Jo Hickey, JFS director of pantry partnerships, at (913) 327-8257 or jhickey@jfskc.org.
more comfortable on campus.
“We are hoping that the positive trend we’ve seen in recent months will continue where we can have healthy dialogue without any hateful elements or intimidation,” Rabbi Tiechtel said. “We’re very proud to be affiliated with a university like this that creates an environment where everyone can feel comfortable.”
following are the deadlines for articles, celebration announcements, Spotlight pictures, advertisements and editorials for upcoming Chronicle
Sierra Debrow named delegate to Reform Movement slate at World Zionist Congress
Community member Sierra Debrow has been nominated to the young delegation for the Reform Movement at the World Zionist Congress (WZC). Debrow, who is the community planning specialist for Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City, is the only Kansas Citian in the Reform Movement’s delegation.
Sierra Debrow
The WZC, which will convene in Jerusalem in October, meets every five years to make decisions on allocating more than $1 billion to support needs in Israel and the Diaspora. It is the governing body of the World Zionist Organization, which “strives to enhance the impact of Zionist ideology and activity in Jewish communities around the world, including Israel.”
Twenty-one different slates, each with its own priorities and goals, are running this year. Debrow represents the Reform Movement’s “Vote Reform” slate. Voting opens on March 10 and closes on May 4.
“I am proud to be nominated to the ‘Vote Reform’ slate because I strongly align with the values for which it stands,” Debrow said. “Israel is the homeland of the Jewish people — to
me, that means all Jewish people, regardless of denomination, race, gender or sexuality. All expressions of Jewish identity should be recognized in Israel, and should be treated as equally legitimate within the Jewish State.”
Debrow stands with the Reform Movement’s goal for Israel’s safety while pushing for peace.
“The ‘Vote Reform’ slate also affirms the need for a safe and secure Israel while calling for a path for peace with Israel's neighbors,” they said. “I firmly believe that during these challenging times, it is now more important than ever to ensure that Israel is able to maintain its security as a nation while simultaneously keeping an eye on the future, moving towards recognizing its place as an essential democracy and potential peacemaker in the region.”
More information about the WZC is available at wzo.org.il/en, and all 21 slates can be viewed at the American Zionist Movement’s website (azm.org/elections). Debrow can be reached at sierrad@jewishkc.org.
Goldenberg Duo to present free recitals from March 26 to 31
The Goldenberg Duo, consisting of siblings Susan and William Goldenberg, will present a series of free recital performances at the end of March.
Susan has been a violinist with the Kansas City Symphony for more than 40 years and performs in the Kinnor Philharmonic at The J. William is a pianist and serves as a distinguished teaching professor and head of keyboard studies at Northern Illinois University. The sibling duo have performed concerts for more than 43 years across the United States and the world, including shows in Italy, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, China, Sweden, Norway, Canada, Japan and more.
Baldwin City, KS 66006)
• Wednesday, March 26, at 4 p.m. at Bishop Spencer Place (4301 Madison, Kansas City, MO 64111)
• Thursday, March 27, at 2 p.m. at the Lawrence Public Library (707 Vermont St.. Lawrence, KS 66044)
• Thursday, March 27, at 7 p.m. at Diastole (2501 Holmes, Kansas City, MO 64108)
The duo will perform works by Frank Bridge, Jean Sibelius, Edvard Grieg, Fanny and Felix Mendelssohn, Amy Marcy Cheney Beach, Fritz Kreisler, Gabriel Faure and Claude Debussy.
They have seven free shows scheduled:
• Wednesday, March 26, at 12:30 p.m. at Baker University (618 Eighth St.,
Kansas City, MO, City Manager
Brian Platt suspended after lawsuit
By The Chronicle staff
Kansas City, Missouri, City Manager Brian Platt has been suspended from his position following a $900,000 lawsuit against the city alleging that Platt had lied to the media. This decision was announced by Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas; whether Platt will be reinstated will be determined on March 20.
In a lawsuit against the city, former Kansas City Communications Director Chris Hernandez alleged that Platt suggested, “Why can’t we just lie to the media?” and later manipulated information. Hernandez also alleged that
he was later demoted and reassigned after pushing back on Platt. The jury sided with Hernandez, who received $900,000.
Mayor Lucas suspended Platt the day after the jury verdict, putting his 4.5-year contract extension and $308,000 salary at risk. The city council will determine its next steps regarding Platt on March 20.
Platt, who is Jewish, began his role as city manager in 2020, having previously held the same position in Jersey City, New Jersey. Last year, Platt was in the running for the city manager position of Austin, Texas, but dropped out of consideration, subsequently receiving his contract extension and raise.
Platt’s involvement in the Kansas City Jewish community has included appearances at multiple events, including the city’s menorah lightings and Oct. 7 commemoration.
This is a developing story and was currentasofpublication.
• Saturday, March 29, at 2 p.m. at the Englewood Arts Center (10901 E. Winner Rd., Independence, MO 64052)
• Sunday, March 30, at 1:30 p.m. at Village Shalom (5500 W. 123rd St., Overland Park, KS 66209)
• Monday, March 31, at 12 p.m. as part of the JCCC-Maronde Professional Recital Series (12345 College Blvd., Overland Park, KS 66210)
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Kansas City Manager Brian Platt
The Goldenberg Duo, consisting of siblings Susan and William.
Teens and parents invited to JCF’s youth philanthropy fair
The Jewish Community Foundation (JCF) will hold its annual youth philanthropy fair, the B’nai Tzedek Shuk, to introduce teenagers to tzedakah by inviting them to establish their own personal charitable giving accounts at the Foundation.
The fair will be held on Thursday, April 3, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Jewish Community Campus (5801 W. 115th St., Overland Park, KS 66211).
Once a year, B’nai Tzedek teen fundholders may donate 10% of their funds to a Jewish charity, either locally or in Israel. The Shuk gives fundholders the opportunity to learn about the missions of community organizations and how their donations can make a positive impact. In many instances, the Shuk is the first time teens are introduced to the array of organizations working in the community.
The Shuk is planned by the B’nai Tzedek Youth Council, a cadre of teens that works together to engage their peers in philanthropy. For this year’s Shuk, the council chose a theme based on the streaming service Netflix and
has incorporated its branding and language into the event. The primary message of the Shuk, “Philanthropy: Rated E for Everyone,” emphasizes that all people, regardless of their age or financial capacity, can give back and make a difference in the world.
“When the council was choosing what we wanted our theme to be this year, we wanted to make sure that it was going to be something that was fun and interesting for all ages,” said Elia Ellis, B’nai Tzedek Youth Council member.
spend time with their friends and have fun,” said Youth Council member Norah Pabst.
More information and registration are available online at jcfkc.org/Shuk or by contacting Suzanne Galblum Dicken at (913) 327-8286 or sdicken@ jcfkc.org.
At the event, teens will spend time visiting the booths of communal organizations where they will meet with representatives and learn how each organization serves the community. Afterward, guests will be invited to socialize and have a complimentary Vaad-supervised and kid-approved light dinner. Dippin’ Dots, a kosher ice cream treat, will also be available. Anyone who wants to learn more about
this program is welcome to attend, and as an added incentive, there will be a drawing to win a free B’nai Tzedek account. All current B’nai Tzedek fundholders who register in advance and attend will be given the chance to win a $50 Amazon gift card.
“Coming to the Shuk is a great way for teens to connect with the mitzvah of giving tzedakah while being able to
The Foundation thanks the following supporters of the B’nai Tzedek program: The Bertha S. and Ida E. Adelson Memorial Fund; Rita and Irwin Blitt; The Philip and Dorothy Byer Philanthropic Fund; The Community Legacy Fund; The Flo Harris Supporting Foundation; Ron and Susie Goldsmith; The Alan and Judy Kosloff Philanthropic Fund; The Lowenstein Family Supporting Foundation; Bob and Barbara Palan; The Sosland Foundation; and The White Family Supporting Foundation.
B’nai Tzedek Shuk Thursday, April 3, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Jewish Community Campus, 5801 W. 115th St., Overland Park, KS 66211
The B’nai Tzedek Youth Council invites teens to its youth philanthropy fair, hosted by the Jewish Community Foundation.
This week in history
25 years
60 years
75 years
Though the patient couldn’t afford surgery, Jewish Federation and Me-
Hospital had hospitalization funds that helped community members and covered this operation.
Find these historical stories and more community history at kcjc.com/archive.
• Andi Milens (pg. 1)
• “Bad Shabbos” (pg. 3)
• B’nai Tzedek Shuk (pg. 5)
• Geography (pg. 15)
• Go With The Flow (pg. 3)
• Goldenberg Duo (pg. 4)
GOWITHTHEFLOW BADSHABBOS REPORTCARD ANDIMILENS SIERRADEBROW GOLDENBERGDUO BNAITZEDEKSHUK SENSORYAWARENESS JULIETS CAFEOHEV PASSOVERDESSERTS GEOGRAPHY SUPERSTAR EMERGINGLEADERS VILLAGESHALOM PURIM ESTHER VASHTI
• Report card (pg. 1)
• Sensory awareness (pg. 8)
• Sierra Debrow (pg. 4)
• Café Ohev (pg. 9)
• Emerging Leaders (pg. 13)
• Esther (pg. 11)
• JULIETs (pg. 9)
• Passover desserts (pg. 10)
• Purim
• SuperStar (pg. 14)
• Vashti (pg. 11)
• Village Shalom (pg. 13)
Barbara Atlas, Marsha Schoenfeld, Vicki Novorr, Bunni Glasberg and Teri Cohn plan for the Menorah Auxiliary Installation Luncheon.
The 1965 Purim kings and queens of Congregation Beth Shalom School are (back row, from left) Jenny Winett, Jeff Alpert, Candy Block, David Segelstein, (front row) Lori Weiner and Howard Goller.
A surgeon, two nurses and two interns at Menorah Hospital perform an emergency gallbladder removal for a mother of three at midnight.
norah
KU Hillel held its 2025 Women's Hoops Classic on March 2. Hosted by Herb Buchbinder and chaired by Eric Kaseff, the event brought together more than 160 KU students, alumni, parents and community members for brunch before watching the KU women’s basketball game versus Oklahoma State.
are (top
from
KU
Left: A cohort of Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy students attended the event, including (back row) Uriel Noorollah, HBHA Athletic Director Sam Matsil, Avital Mullokandova, Event Chair Eric Kaseff, Sabra Bergh, Norah Pabst, HBHA Girls’ Head Coach Golan Silverman, Naftali Tilove, (front row) Sofia Levine, Naama Reem, Shefer Rudnick and Dava Thomas.
Hanoch Piven Visit
from Feb. 28 to March 2. He led workshops and classes for nearly 1,000
The 2025 confirmation class of Congregation Beth Shalom visited New York City in March. The visit included seeing a performance of “Wicked” on Broadway, which was followed by a backstage tour and meeting some of the performers.
Above: Pictured
row,
left)
Mascot Baby Jay and Keira Cohen; Baby Jay and Kate Jacobs; Brenna and Janice Gross; and Jackson, Addie, Louis and Hailey Stein.
PJ Library and Jewish Experience hosted renowned Israeli artist Hanoch Piven as artist-in-residence
children and adults throughout the weekend, including members of Federation’s Young Adults Division (YAD).
Above left: Pictured with their artworks are (back row, from left) Yale Winston, Melinda Barrett, Dan Osburn, Tim Fine, Margo Hellman, Jack Schreiber, Sam Matsil, Emily Newman, (second row) Lauren Ruben, Kate Jacobs, Grace Dorman, Jacob Elyachar, Mika Kislanski, Maddie Reiches, Shaina Falk, (front row) Rachel Beser Brookes, Nina Geller, Julia Osburn, Greyson Rubin, artist-in-residence Hanoch Piven, Ben Novorr, Sam Kricsfeld and Sarah Navran.
Above right: Dan Osburn, Jack Schreiber and Jacob Elyachar.
Hillel & Hoops
Beth Shalom in NYC
Torah Mantle
By Ellie Holsten
Prior to the 20th century, Jewish women’s contributions to worship were focused on the home: preparing for Shabbat, cooking for holiday, and fulfilling their domestic contributions to worship. There was one main way women could have a public presence in the reading of the Torah: by creating beautiful textiles to adorn it.
Before the mass production of clothing, women of means wore beautifully handmade and hand-embroidered garments. When these dresses were worn out, they could be repurposed into ornaments for the Torah. In some communities in Italy, every woman would transform her wedding dress into a Torah cover. This particular Torah mantle was made in around 1800 from a Turkish woman’s dress. The practice of converting garments for women into vestments for the Torah gave women an opportunity to contribute to communal prayer when they had few other avenues in the temples of the 18th and 19th centuries. The women did not personally come up to the bimah and read from the Torah, but they were linked to the reading by the beautiful art they created.
More information about the Michael Klein Collection at the Temple, Congregation B’nai Jehudah can be found at kleincollection.org or by calling (913) 663-4050 to schedule a tour.
The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle and the Klein Collection are partneringtoshareandhighlightsomeofthe collection’suniquepieces.
The White Theatre bringing sensory awareness to forefront during play
“The Curious Incident of The Dog in The Night-Time” opens its run at The Lewis & Shirley White Theatre at The J on Saturday, March 15, running for 10 performances through Sunday, March 30. A special performance on Wednesday morning, March 19, at 9:30 a.m. will be sensory-friendly, with adjusted house light levels, muted audio effects and relaxed standard theatre decorum to create a more welcoming atmosphere for neurodiverse patrons interested in seeing the performance.
Winner of the 2013 Tony Award for the Best Play and the 2013 Olivier Award for Best New Play, “The Curious Incident of The Dog in The NightTime” is an adaptation of Mark Haddon’s 2003 award-winning mystery novel.
The play follows Christopher, a 15-year-old with an extraordinary brain. He is exceptional at mathematics but ill-equipped to interpret everyday life. He has never ventured alone beyond the end of his road, he detests being touched and he distrusts strangers. When he falls under suspicion for killing his neighbor’s dog, he sets out to identify the true culprit, which leads to an earth-shattering discovery and a journey that will change his life forever.
Performance dates and times include:
• Wednesday, March 19 (Sensory Friendly Performance) and March 26 (Student Matinee) at 9:30 a.m.
• Thursdays, March 20 and 27, at 7:30 p.m.
• Saturdays, March 15, 22 and 29, at 7:30 p.m.
• Sundays, March 16, 23 and 30, at 2 p.m.
Khalia Davis Philp, producing artistic director for The Coterie Theatre, will make her directorial debut at The White Theatre. The multidisciplinary artist began her professional career in the San Francisco Bay Area and has lived and worked on both coasts before being tapped as a co-leader of The Coterie last year.
“I wanted to use this as an opportunity to meet more of the amazing, talented artists in this Kansas City community,” Davis Philp said. “The White Theatre has a stellar reputation for
producing high-quality professional productions with top-tier performances and creatives, so I knew that to have this be my first directing opportunity outside of The Coterie would introduce me to some amazing artists.”
Although never explicitly stated, the script implies that Christopher is probably on the autism spectrum. The play focuses on his unique way of moving through the world and communicating with others.
“I love that this show centers the words and ideas of a young person who sees the world in such a unique way, and that is never questioned,” Davis Philp said.
The White Theatre staff worked with Sasone – a program of Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City that works to ensure that students with disabilities have access to a Jewish education – to create a sensory friendly performance on Wednesday, March 19, and to provide a welcoming, accessible experience to theatergoers throughout the run of the show.
Assistive listening devices and noise-cancelling headphones can be checked out and used during any performance. Additionally, the theater is designed without any steps between the parking lot and a patron’s seat, creating a more accessible space.
Davis Philp, who has had experience with sensory-friendly performances at The Coterie already, understands the importance of providing these opportunities.
“If we want our theaters to be a true space of belonging and inclusion, we must recognize the importance of creating space and opportunity for all audiences to enjoy our work,” she said. “These accommodations support their ability to show up in our theaters as their true authentic selves, enjoying the show without elements of the piece that may have negative or adverse effects. And if we have done our job correctly, those adjustments to sound and lights don’t really detract from the essence of the storytelling.”
Regardless of the main character’s implied challenges, Davis Philp approached this performance process as she would any other – with access check-ins and touch points throughout rehearsals to ensure that the cast and crew are best equipped to support each other throughout the experience. Over time, she has learned that the ability to communicate expectations up-front helps set others up for success.
“I have worked with a number of wonderfully talented neurodiverse artists over the years and the major shift I have made as a director is how I communicate,” she said. “I state our agenda or expectations for the day at the top of rehearsal. If I am changing blocking or movement for an actor or chorus member, I make sure to be as clear and concise with the new direction and emphasize that it is indeed a change. I give room for asking questions and writing down notes as we move through rehearsals.”
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Ultimately, that care and communication helps elevate everyone’s experience, both for those on the stage and in the audience.
“Everyone relates to the character of Christopher in very specific ways, and providing clarity for our actors helps them create clear motives and intentions with each other, which in turn helps Christopher respond to them,” Davis Philp continued. “We dig into a number of sensitive topics throughout the piece, and Christopher has different reactions to those challenges. I felt it was important even from the callbacks to emphasize the care that is owed for those moments and even made sure to bring in intimacy professionals and coaches to support the process.”
Tickets for all performances are available at TheWhiteTheatre.org, with the exception of the student matinee on Wednesday, March 26. Interested schools can contact the box office directly at (913) 327-8054 or boxoffice@thejkc.org.
The play stars Maytham Thurman as main character Christopher Boone. The U.S. Navy veteran has over 15 years of theatrical experience and makes his debut on The White Theatre stage in this performance. Jordan Fox and Raleigh Peterson both return to The White Theatre stage to play Christopher’s father (Ed) and mother (Judy), respectively. Patty Whitlock plays Siobahn, Christopher’s teacher and mentor, and one of the few people Christopher trusts. Erika Crane-Ricketts, Kevin Madden, Travis Mendoza-Holt, David Martin, Miranda Muenz, Margaret Shelby, Chas Coffman and Jessica Franz-Martin round out the talented cast for this performance.
The White Theatre continues its 2024-25 season in April, bringing the Heartland Men’s Chorus Kansas City on April 4 and 5, followed by “Golda’s Balcony,” featuring Curb Your Enthusiasm and Hacks actor Iris Bar on April 26 and 27. Leonard Bernstein’s classic “West Side Story,” produced in partnership with the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Greater Kansas City, and “Stuff of Dreams,” a new musical, are also in this year’s line up.
Full descriptions and performance times for each event are available at TheWhiteTheatre.org. Auditions for musicals and plays produced at The White Theatre are announced online and on Facebook.
community news
JULIETs to host Chronicle staff for history presentation
Jewish Unforgettable Ladies Interested in Eating Together (JULIETs) will host the staff of The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle for its March event. Chronicle Editor Sam Kricsfeld and Assistant Editor Lacey Storer will present about how Jewish history was covered in The Chronicle and how it has evolved over its 105 years of publication.
The event will be held at Congregation Beth Torah (6100 W. 127th St., Overland Park, KS 66209) on Sunday, March 30, at 12:30 p.m.
Kricsfeld has been editor of The Chronicle since 2021, and Storer has been involved with The Chronicle since Jewish Federation of Greater
Dr. Ken
2020.
Attendees are asked to arrive 10 minutes early to check in. Time will be reserved for individual questions. Beverages and paper goods will be provided. Reservations are required by Thursday, March 27, by contacting Susie Klinock at JULIETs.KC@gmail.com. Jewish women (and non-Jewish women with a Jewish spouse) are invited to all JULIETs events, and no synagogue affiliation is required. Attendees should bring their own lunch or snack; JULIETs will provide beverages and paper goods.
Abramovitch shares stories of Inuit dental care with Café Ohev
Members of Congregation Beth Shalom gathered on Sunday, March 2, to hear Dr. Ken Abramovitch, professor and chair of the Oral Pathology, Radiology and Medicine Department at UMKC School of Dentistry.
Dr. Abramovitch shared stories of his experiences early in his career when he spent a year living among and providing dental care to the Inuit people along the Hudson Bay coast in northwestern Quebec. The group listened as he described the condi-
tions of the Arctic environment and how the Inuit adapt to it with their nomadic lifestyle to feed and clothe themselves. The audience saw photos of the Inuit people, their housing, medical stations and transportation modes such as dog sleds, trucks and prop planes. The slide presentation also included images of the native landscape and images of caribou, fish, seals, polar bears and whales that the Inuit hunted. The variations in Inuit soapstone carvings were also present-
ed. Following this talk, the group ate brunch together. This event was part of the Café Ohev program which has continued at Congregation Beth Shalom after Ohev Sholom and Beth Shalom consolidated two years ago. Dr. Ken Abramovitch and Café Ohev organizer Audrey Asher.
B’nai B’rith Bowling Scores
The following bowlers achieved high scores in the Sunday Kansas City B’nai B’rith
March 2
500 Series
Doug Bennett 717 (266 224 227)
Mark Newton 661 (173 231 257)
Hunter Thomas 646 (227 170 249)
Stuart Pollack 601 (206 185 210)
Ryan Thomas 599 (151 237 211)
Scott Hecht 579 (217 173 189)
Bill Sloan 562 (171 221 170)
Steve Baraban 553 (204 181 168)
Nick Meyers 552 (190 180 182)
Irwin Snitz 541 (214 157 170)
Jerry Shapiro 538 (132 164 242)
Morty Rock 521 (170 193 158)
Steve Greenberg 516 (181 151 184)
Christopher Eldredge 505 (180 147 178)
170 Series
Kent Verden 199 Randy L Freed 190 Michael Altman 172
March 9
500 Series
Scott Hecht 618 (237 202 179)
Nick Meyers 598 (233 216 149)
Stuart Pollack 595 (170 214 211)
Michael Sokol 585 (164 208 213)
Steve Baraban 581 (180 212 189)
Ryan Thomas 565 (191 184 190)
Hunter Thomas 562 (159 214 189)
Morty Rock 551 (197 181 173)
Michael Altman 534 (189 169 176)
Bruce Parker 521 (170 170 181)
Irwin Snitz 515 (178 167 170)
Mark Newton 503 (183 158 162)
Ray Kopek 502 (176 133 193)
If you are interested in bowling during the ‘24-’25 season for a competitive, fun, social atmosphere, you can contact Tom Balke at (913) 244-7010 or balketw@yahoo.com or Stuart Pollack at (913) 957-3716 or skp28@aol.com.
Kansas City took ownership of the publication in
Kansas City Jewish Chronicle Editor Sam Kricsfeld and Assistant Editor Lacey Storer.
JULIETs Kansas City Jewish Chronicle discussion Sunday, March 30, at 12:30 p.m.
Congregation Beth Torah, 6100 W. 127th St., Overland Park, KS 66209
Using The Chronicle’s archives and community submissions, here is a recipe for you to try out. Email samk@jewishkc.org with a recipe, and it might be published here!
Orange Cake Supreme
1970, Mrs. Milan Blumenthal (right)
Ingredients
• ½ cup butter
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 egg yolks
• ¼ tsp. salt
• Grated rind of ½ orange
• ½ cup strained orange juice
• 1 ½ tsp. baking powder
• 3 beaten egg whites
Instructions
1. Set oven to 350 degrees
2. Cream butter, then add sugar and eggs — mix ingredients as for cake batter
3. Add flour mixture alternately with juice
4. Bake in a greased 13x9” pan for 35-40 minutes
Olive Tree to host Passover dessert class with Michael Crane
Olive Tree in Overland Park, Kansas, will welcome Jewish baker Michael Crane for a Passover dessert class. Participants will learn how to make flourless desserts that are kosher-for-Passover and bring more flavors to the holiday table.
The event will be held on Saturday, April 5, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Olive Tree (7044 W. 105th St, Overland Park, KS 66212). Attendees must sign up; more details and reservations are available at tinyurl.com/34x2j6hc.
In this two-hour class, attendees will create and eat a variety of Passover-friendly treats, including flourless chocolate cake with ganache frosting, orange coconut macaroons, pavlova with fresh whipped cream and berries, blondies and lemon curd jelly rolls.
“Passover desserts don’t have to be dry or boring,” Crane said. “This class will show how to make indulgent, flavorful treats that everyone at your Seder will love.”
Since retiring from Crane Brewing, Crane has been working in the field of traditional Jewish foods and often works with
Olive Tree. Last July, Crane and Olive Tree worked together on a pastrami-and-rye pop-up event, and they collaborated on a Rosh Hashanah menu last September. Olive Tree is owned by community member Mindy Riley and specializes in olive oils, balsamic vinegars and gourmet gifts. Riley hosts cooking classes regularly.
Passover dessert class
Saturday, April 5, from 1 to 3 p.m.
Olive Tree, 7044 W. 105th St, Overland Park, KS 66212
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Michael Crane’s Passover blondies and pavlova.
By Molly Hess Director of Jewish Experiences
Do we want to raise our kids to be more like Esther or Vashti?
As we approached Purim, I kept thinking to myself about the characters, what they represent and how they act as leaders in the story. I think about duality and the comparisons that indirectly happen in this epic tale.
As a kid I remember comparing Vashti to Esther. Vashti was always described as being defiant, as being a rebel, and was not exactly talked about in the most glowing way. However, Esther was a “pull yourself up from your bootstraps” queen with a cause. She felt righteous in her defiance as opposed to the portrayal of Vashti as being disobedient. As kids, we were taught to look up to Esther, her bravery, her gusto and her chutzpah for going to King Ahasuerus, and that Vashti deserved her exile for merely standing up for herself.
Now, as a mother, I contemplate who I want my children to emulate?
While Esther’s work and effort saved the Jewish people from annihilation and her bravery is not to be dismissed in any way, shape or form, she had to be pushed into that role. Her leadership was mentored and fostered by Mordecai,
and it wasn’t until it was the very last option that she stood up for the Jewish people and revealed her true self to the king. Vashti, on the other hand, showed the king exactly who she was from the beginning — a no-nonsense woman who was not going to “entertain” the royal court just because she was beckoned for. She stood up for herself and her own autonomy to protect herself from people who we find out in the end were evil.
Both ways of presenting oneself are valid. Sometimes you need to slowly reveal your true self as a form of protection, and we don’t know our full potential until we are guided and pushed into a deep place of discomfort and out again. But it is also important to show up as your whole self and know your worth and value. As I raise two young children, I think about this balance. How do I guide my kids to be leaders, speak up and stand up for what they believe in, and how do I make sure that they know that, when faced with injustice, they have the full right to scream and shout until they are heard — even if there are significant repercussions for their actions? Both are possible and necessary. In a time when things feel unsure and unstable, having a voice and an opinion are critical. Both Esther and Vashti showed us how to do this with grace and gumption. Maybe we raise our kids to be a little bit of both.
Israeli artist Hanoch Piven conducts workshops with community children
PJ Library and Jewish Experiences hosted renowned Israeli artist Hanoch Piven as artist-in-residence from Feb. 28 to March 2. The weekend included workshops with HBHA students, a kids community workshop with students from all of the religious schools in attendance, and a family portrait workshop.
continued from page 1
Andi Milens retires after decades of supporting Jewish communities
“None of [my Jewish professional career] would have happened if it hadn’t been for my childhood here,” Milens said. “This is the community that taught me to go in that direction.”
During her youth, Milens became actively involved in pushing for the freedom of oppressed Jews in the Soviet Union — a turning point in her perspective of Jewish unity.
“[I learned that] in the end, we’re the Jewish community,” she said. “Maybe every generation has to learn it — in my growing up, Soviet Jewry was a hugely formative experience for me, and now it’s a history lesson… we rely on that history that gets us through the next [crisis].”
After applying to multiple colleges, a visit to her friend at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, led her to enroll in 1988. She studied psychology and Jewish and Near Eastern studies but credits her involvement with the school’s Hillel as what influenced her to become a Jewish professional.
In 1990, Milens went to study in Israel, arriving on the day that Saddam Hussein invaded Kuwait. The tension and instability that spread through the Middle East caused her parents to
worry about her immensely, and additional school and safety circumstances ultimately led her to return to the U.S. Despite this, Milens maintains a strong affinity for Israel and has since visited many times.
Upon graduating college, Milens briefly returned to Kansas City and led the “Kansas City Israel Pilgrimage” together with future Federation CEO Jay Lewis. In 1993, she began studying for her two master’s degrees in Los Angeles — one in public administration from the University of Southern California, and one in Jewish communal service from Hebrew Union College.
Milens’ first job as a Jewish professional was at the Jewish Federation of Cleveland, Ohio, during which she discovered and developed her passion to help facilitate aid to those in need.
“That’s what my job has always been — being the person behind the scenes, helping the other people [help those in need],” Milens said. “I think I like being able to empower those people to do the thing but also know that what I was doing made a difference to the person on the receiving end.”
Milens saw the impact of the work she helped facilitate firsthand during the Yugoslav Wars of the late 1990s, when the Cleveland Jewish communi-
brought this Albanian Muslim family from a refugee camp, and we brought them to Cleveland, and we put them in a home, and we handed them cash… there were not a lot of experiences that intense,” Milens said, noting that she felt strong emotions when she realized the check they were handed had been authorized by her.
In 2002, she relocated to New York City to work for the Jewish Council for Public Affairs (JCPA), where she spent 13 years. Her job largely focused on supporting local Jewish community relations professionals, which played a notably significant role in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.
ty helped resettle a family of Albanian Muslim refugees. She was there upon their arrival and saw the extent with which the organizations she worked with treated the refugees with care and dignity amid a mob of press at the airport.
“I watched this whole episode, from them getting off the plane to the fact that we, the Jewish community,
Although she enjoyed her work and living in New York, she eventually found herself missing the feeling of a tight-knit community — she told The Chronicle in 2017 that her work included “working one-on-one with communities,” influencing her desire to return to community-level efforts.
“After a while, when it was time to find something new, I kind of missed that community thing,” she said. “And if I’m going to leave New York and work for a community, it might as well be in my community.”
Milens was hired by Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City in 2017, working her way up to chief strategy officer in 2023.
“When I first moved to Kansas City and started with Jewish Federation, it was Andi who helped me understand the landscape of Jewish Kansas City and build connections across this community,” said Sierra Debrow, Federation community planning specialist formerly supervised by Milens. “Her deep connection to this community showed me how incredibly intertwined and special this community is and can be. I admire her strong commitment to making this community the best that it can be, with one foot rooted in the past and the other stepping into a bright future.”
“It is so phenomenal that Andi was able to channel her passions for the Jewish community into a long and distinguished professional career,” said Jay Lewis, president and CEO of Federation. “ From fighting for justice locally to sustaining Jewish life in Is-
continued on next page
Andi Milens in Sofia, Bulgaria, in March of 2023, holding a Torah donated by Congregation Beth Shalom in 2001. Milens was on a trip with Jewish Federation and the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee.
continued from previous page rael and throughout the world, Andi’s impact was felt in so many ways. The Jewish community is so fortunate that Andi worked on its behalf for so many years, and I am so fortunate to have worked with Andi at the beginning of her career when we co-led the Kansas City Israel Pilgrimage and now at the end of her career at the Jewish Federation.”
Having seen the breadth of Jewish community across the world during her career, Milens retains a confidence in the future of Jewry on every level, from Federation to the Kansas City Jewish community to the entire world.
“Sometimes I’m optimistic, and sometimes I’m hopeful, and not always at the same time,” she said. “There’s a lot of work to do, and I don’t by any
community news
stretch mean to minimize the danger that is out there from antisemitism and the danger of extremism… but I really do have faith that we will find the right path and emerge as well or better.”
As for why she is choosing to retire at age 54, Milens said that she wants to make room for new young leaders.
“I see the next generation of professionals, and I have great confidence in their abilities and their ideas and their energy,” she said. “I don’t want to be the one who’s sticking around at the end of my career, not making room for the next generation.”
Though retiring from Jewish professional life, Milens does not plan to retreat from the Jewish community.
“I’m really looking forward to figuring out what the rest of my Jewish life looks like,” she said.
JFS Emerging Leaders help in the community
Jewish Family Services (JFS) Emerging Leaders are continuing to volunteer in the community. Emerging Leaders is a JFS affinity group composed of young professionals who come together to support the mission and work of JFS. The group recently marked its first anniversary.
On March 29, Emerging Leaders will be volunteering at Happy Bottoms, a nonprofit organization that partners with JFS. Happy Bottoms provides a monthly supply of diapers or training pants to children in need through a network of 70 social service agency sites. Emerging Leaders will learn more about Happy Bottoms work, help with some activities and then gather across the street at KC Bier Co. for refreshments and socializing.
Emerging Leaders began as an initiative of JFS’ Board Engagement Committee wanting to harness the talents and skills of young professionals in the community. The concept was also designed to help build the next generation of leadership for JFS and other community organizations. Emerging Leaders supports JFS’ mission through social events in support of a cause, volunteering and leadership opportunities. Group members can serve on
Village Shalom relaunches Associate Board
Village Shalom announces the re-establishment of its Associate Board. This group is intended to play a pivotal role in advancing the organization’s mission while engaging and connecting with the broader community. The Associate Board is an opportunity for young professionals to support Village Shalom’s goals while gaining professional experience and expanding their networks.
for Village Shalom but also contribute to strengthening community ties.
JFS committees, engage with board members and staff and learn more about JFS.
“Being involved with this group has helped me learn more about JFS as a whole [and also] be able to share the good things the organization does with my peers,” said Michael Portman, a member of Emerging Leaders. “We would love to have more young adults looking for an opportunity to lead and volunteer their time to a great cause and organization.”
More than 100 young professionals have participated in Emerging Leaders activities, which have included community services projects and social gatherings.
Those with a passion for JFS’ work are asked to consider joining the group. Additional questions can be directed to Melanie Hayden, Emerging Leaders Staff Liaison, at mhayden@ jfskc.org or (913) 730-1745.
Members of the newly reformed Associate Board will work to make a lasting impact on the lives of Village Shalom’s residents and the surrounding community. Members will participate in planning, promoting and executing events such as the Annual Father’s Day Run and the upcoming 25th Anniversary Celebration. These milestones not only help raise funds
Board members will have the opportunity to connect with local community leaders, fellow professionals and board members; gain hands-on experience in areas such as event planning, project management, leadership and public speaking; help improve the lives of senior residents; and will attend monthly meetings held both virtually and in-person, offering the flexibility to participate regardless of a busy schedule.
For more information or to express interest, those interested can email Hope Howe at hhowe@villageshalom.org or Ben Heisler at benheisler@duck.com, who will oversee the launch and development of the Associate Board.
The exterior of Village Shalom.
Members of the Emerging Leaders affinity group at Jewish Family Services at the Rieger Distillery Electric Park Garden in 2023.
KC SuperStar organizers announce 2025 semifinalists
After hosting two nights of auditions featuring over 120 high school singers, KC SuperStar organizers have announced 24 semifinalists for its 16th year.
In total, 57 different area high schools were represented during the audition process, which was hosted at The J. Participants in KC SuperStar compete for the first-place prize of a $10,000 scholarship, and additional scholarship money is awarded to all finalists.
“For the last 16 years, we have seen teens from across the metropolitan area overcome their fears to share their love of singing with us,” said Tammy Ruder, KC SuperStar producer and director. “The training that they are receiving from their high school music teachers can be seen when they share their talent with us. Once again, the auditioners made it extremely difficult to narrow it down to a smaller group, but now that we have the semifinalists, I cannot wait to see how they grow from a musical theatre performer and choral mem-
ber to an individual artist. It is going to be fun.”
The 24 participants will perform in KC SuperStar semifinals on Thursday, June 5, at The Lewis & Shirley White Theatre at The J. They are Addison McLaughlin (Kansas City, Missouri), Addy Gardner (Lee’s Summit, Missouri), Amari Russell (Raymore, Missouri}, Aubree Smith (Lenexa, Kansas), Brianna Frohning (Overland Park, Kansas), Chase Curtis (Liberty, Missouri), Corbin Newberry (Kansas City, Missouri), Daniel Gomez (Overland Park), Delilah Rose Pellow (Lee’s Summit), Devin Fisher (Raymore), Emiliana Adams (Kansas City, Missouri), Ethan Reed (Lenexa), Jada Strother (Kansas City, Missouri), Jaxon Hendrix (Lenexa), Jordan Naseem (Kansas City, Missouri), Lillian Myers (Kansas City,
Kansas), Madeline Watkins (Overland Park), Matt Brun (Overland Park), Matthew Fortino (Overland Park), Miles McKinzy (Overland Park), Neena Shankar (Overland Park), Noah Hastings (Olathe, Kansas), Rayna Key (Gladstone, Missouri) and Shae Simpson (Liberty).
A panel of entertainment industry professionals will choose the top 10 singers who will move onto the finals, which will be held at Yardley Hall in the Midwest Trust Center at Johnson County Community College on Sunday, Aug. 24.
Since its conception, KC SuperStar has had participants from across the metropolitan area compete, and several competitors have continued to perform professionally. KC SuperStar awards over $22,000 in scholarships annually to the top 10
finalists. In addition to a $10,000 scholarship for the winner, other singers will be awarded scholarships, including $5,000 for second place, $2,500 for third place, $1,000 for fourth place and $500 each for all other finalists.
As The J’s major fundraising event, KC SuperStar provides financial assistance to members so they can participate in its many services, including the Child Development Center, J Camp, health and fitness, and programming, meals and transportation for Heritage, The J’s Lifelong Learning program for Adults 55+. A portion of funds raised goes to The Reat Griffin Underwood Rising Stars Fund supporting performing arts education and training programs for youth ages 14-21.
Sponsorship opportunities are available; more information is available at kcsuperstar.org or by contacting Robin Levine at robinl@thejkc.org or (913) 981-8895.
KC SuperStar’s 2025 co-chairs are J members and community volunteers Steven and Jennifer Paul.
2024 KC SuperStar winner Magdalena Nguyen performs during the semifinals.
Our community’s geography challenge
By Jay Lewis President and CEO of Jewish Federation
We have a geography challenge in the Kansas City Jewish community.
The Jewish Community Campus which houses so many of our communal agencies sits in Overland Park. On one hand, it makes sense that between it and other nearby Jewish communal buildings that a disproportionate number of programs and community events are held south of College Boulevard.
However, our 2021 Jewish Community Study identified two key points related to geography. First, over half of the Jewish community does not live in Overland Park or Leawood. Second, it found that geography truly does matter when it comes to engagement with the Jewish community. Many of the survey’s respondents answered that geography and the location of institutions and programs were a barrier to them attending programming and
feeling connected to the Kansas City Jewish community.
In the book of Genesis, we are taught that Abraham’s tent was open on all four sides so guests could approach him without a barrier from any direction. This is such a beautiful metaphor for engagement with the Jewish community. We need to strive to make our tent like Abraham’s, wide open on all four sides. The Community Study shone a light on the fact that for many in this metropolitan area, geographic challenges are a tent flap down and a barrier to entry.
Evolving demographics and geography are not new for Kansas City Jews. In the first part of the 20th century, the center of the Jewish community was on Linwood Boulevard. Then, in the middle part of the century, as the Jewish community moved south, so did the communal organizations; 83rd and Holmes became the hub. Then, in the 1980s, as we migrated further south, most of the buildings moved south to Overland Park.
In 2025 and beyond, the answer for
our community will not be to once again move all the Jewish buildings somewhere else — at this point, you name the area, the Kansas City Jewish diaspora has spread there.
Biblically, geography was absolutely paramount for our people. Where we were and where events needed to take place was of utmost importance, especially the seminal moment of our people when God revealed the Ten Commandments to us. God did not do this while we were in Egypt… nor did God do this right after we crossed the Red Sea… nor at some random place in the wilderness.
No, we were led to a specific place, Mt. Sinai, where the Ten Commandments were to be revealed. Place mattered.
From there, our whole religious system was dependent on a very specific place: the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. Jews had to live close to the Temple so they could bring offerings and sacrifices at prescribed times. During that significant era, Judaism was entirely dependent on geography.
Then, in 586 BCE, everything changed when the Temple was destroyed by the Babylonians. Eventually it was rebuilt, but destroyed again in the first century by the Romans. The Jews then, like so many times throughout our history, were resilient. We adapted and found a way to make it work with no Holy Temple. Our rabbis developed a whole new system of laws and customs that could be done anywhere. We are no longer completely dependent on where we are.
Just as we have done every time a challenge has come our way, we will be resilient, we will be innovative, we will adapt, and yes, we will thrive. We have an opportunity to engage so many more people, connect people to one another and make sure even more people feel welcomed.
One big step is to continue to recalibrate the balance between where programming and events take place throughout the metro area. Since the continued on next page
Come home to Beth Torah!
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.
Blessings of a Jewish mother A proud grandfather
According to the Talmud, a Jew should recite 100 blessings each day. (Sorry, blessing someone sneezing doesn’t count.) That averages out to be one benediction every 10 minutes, which is an awful lot of “baruch atahs” (blessed are you). But fulfilling this obligation should be no problem because there are so many Jewish prayers to pick from. As claimed by my own personal religious authority — “Fiddler on the Roof” — “There’s a blessing for everything.”
Despite this panoply of prayers, during the 35 years I was raising my daughter, I could still have used a few more. For instance, I needed a benediction to recite when she was granted a driver’s license and backed out of the driveway for the first time. I was especially anxious because years earlier, my stepson’s maiden voyage steered him directly into the neighbor’s hedges. He and the car were okay, the shrubbery not so much.
I wish I had a prayer to pronounce over the first paystub she received from Cold Stone Creamery. In that job she was required to serenade customers while scooping ice cream, so as an aspiring singer she was being paid both to work and perform. A double-dipped blessing perhaps?
I could have used a special incantation to intone over her college acceptance envelope. She and I would have needed individual versions. Despite my suggestion (okay, hocking) that she enroll in a teacher’s college, she had insisted on auditioning for and applying only to a college musical theatre program. I would have been praying for “We regret to inform you,” while her entreaty would have been for “Congratulations.” Alas, her prayer was answered, not mine.
When she left for college, I longed for a special prayer to offer the first time I walked past her now-vacant bedroom. I would have needed to rescind it four years later when she moved back home. Can you take a blessing back?
After working several part-time jobs — none of which required either dipping or singing — she finally secured a full-time job at a small nonprofit children’s theatre. Wonder of wonders — it came with full benefits. When she pulled out her
medical insurance card, I wanted to make the sign of the cross (or the Star of David?), but instead offered a version of my mother’s favorite saying: “May you not use it in good health.”
When we celebrated that job at our favorite deli, I found myself lacking the next blessing. As one would expect, there are Jewish prayers for everything you eat or drink, but I wanted to mark the moment she reached for the check, saying, “Lunch is on me, Mom.” Never before had a chopped liver sandwich tasted so good.
A few years later, she announced her engagement, and we had plenty of prayers to pick from for the marriage ceremony. Seven to be exact — for that’s the number of blessings at the heart of a Jewish wedding. But two years later, I was lacking a “new Bubbe blessing” for the joyous moment I became a grandmother. Since she had twin boys, should I have said it twice? As Tevye would put it, “Such a question would cross a rabbi’s eyes.”
When my granddaughter was born two years later, I would have proudly pronounced that prayer again — just once this time. Yet the day we brought her home, another missing prayer cried out to us. We needed something to whisper the moment we got two two-year-olds and one newborn to sleep at the same time.
Today I find myself bereft of yet one more blessing. My daughter recently changed jobs, securing a highly-desirable position as a high school drama teacher. Because her undergraduate degree is in performing rather than education, she lacks a teaching certification. So, she must now take classes while working full-time, caring for three children and making time for her husband. After applying to the local teacher’s college to fulfill this requirement, she remembered my advice to her years ago.
“You were right, Mom. I should’ve listened to you.”
Words definitely deserving of a mother’s blessing.
Nancy Kalikow Maxwell is a Kansas Citynativeandaward-winningauthor. Her latest book, “Typically Jewish,” is available through the Jewish Publication Society or Amazon. Her website is www.kaliwellinc.com and email is nancykalikowmaxwell@gmail.com.
By Lee Levin
Forgive me for bragging (or not), but I cannot help it. My grandson, David Kaplan, is the producer of the Oscar nominated film “The Brutalist,” which had seven Oscar nominations and two wins, one for best actor and one for best musical score.
What is amazing about all this is that David is only 38 years old, the film was made on an extremely low budget by Hollywood standards, and it is threeand-a-half hours long, which means it must be extremely good for audiences to be willing to sit through it.
And while bragging about grandsons, a second one, Danny Parkins, is on a major national television network three hours a day, five days a week — a sportscaster with everything you would ever want to know about every sport ever invented.
Considering that I am 96 years old, I had come to think there was nothing left to get excited about, but I was wrong. Maybe something is even better for me in the future. I sure hope so. Who knows?
Lee Levin is a community member fromLeawood,Kansas.
Our community’s geography challenge
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publication of the Community Study in 2021, the community is moving in this direction, but we will need to encourage everyone to intensify their efforts to not simply schedule everything in Overland Park by default. This will take some creativity for larger events since the largest Jewish spaces are out south, but it’s not impossible.
We also need to encourage organizations that do have space outside Overland Park to open their doors more to the community and community events and find opportunities to welcome and host people and programs.
Another big part of the solution will be to continue to develop innovative program models that are not dependent on being in community buildings. Going hyperlocal is one strategy that has been and will continue to be successful. For example, Federation’s PJ Library Family engagement department does PJ in the Neighborhood programs where community members host gatherings in their homes, at local parks or area swimming pools for families in the same neighborhood.
This strategy of doing programming beyond the walls of our institutions works for larger events as well. In spring 2022, hundreds of families came together at Sporting KC’s Children’s Mercy Park in Kansas City, Kan-
sas for a huge community-wide Purim event. This past summer, over 1,000 people bought tickets for the Royals Jewish Heritage Night. Coming up this April, we are hosting our Men’s Night Out event for hundreds of men of all ages for the NCAA basketball championship game.
And, in August of 2026, our community will host the Jewish Community Center’s Maccabi Games, which will bring more than 1000 teenage athletes to Kansas City. It will take a whole community effort to provide home hospitality in every city and suburb in the area as well as host events in every athletic venue throughout KC.
Just as the rabbis of the Talmud helped us understand how we could have Jewish life outside of Jerusalem, in Kansas City we too can have Jewish life beyond 115th and Nall. And just like Judaism in the post-Temple era, we will grow and thrive.
Yes, we do have demographic and geographic challenges, but we also have so much potential. And, we need to keep in mind that in the end, very few Jews in our community live more than 30 minutes away from each other with or without traffic — a dynamic just about every other Jewish community in the country is envious of. Thanks to the 2021 Community Study and the efforts of community leadership, we are moving in the right direction.
ages of excellence
Benefiting the Village Shalom Financial Assistance Program
Sandra Baer and Charley Helzberg
Dierdre and Ronnie Baker
Ann Baum -
G. Kenneth Baum and Ann Baum
Philanthropic Fund
Abe and Anna Bograd Memorial Trust
Brenda Althouse and Paul Fingersh
Emily D. Berkley
Sherry and Michael Blumenthal
Denise and Ron Coppaken
Matt Daly
Lisa and Buzzah Feingold
Sandi and Ed Fried
Sondra and Frank Friedman
Robert S. Gershon
Jane and Jonny Girson
Goldberg Family Foundation
Johnson, Kendall & Johnson
Lisa and James Klein
Michael Klein
Rachel Krantz and Edward Goldstein
Danielle and Sam Levine
Ann Canfield and Stanley J. Bushman
Susie Goldsmith
Shirley and Barnett C. Helzberg, Jr.
Rosalyn and Howard Jacobson
Gudrun and Chester* Neumann
Harry J. Parris
Sharon Lowenstein Poisner and Alan Poisner
Rosanne and Howard Rosen
Lisa and Steve Ruben
Dorothee and Helmut Schulz
Denise and Sheldon Schwartz
Dana and Neil Schwartz
Sheila and Ken Sigman
Aletha and Bob Simon
Evelina and Steven Swartzman
Esther and Stewart Stein
Betsey and Tom Ward
Anonymous
Irene Bettinger
Charlotte and Richard Brockman
Carol and Jim Burrows
Donna Gould Cohen
Anita and Robert Feldt
Susan and Rocky Horowitz
Merilyn and Loren Berenbom
Carol and Lewis Berey
Lori and Richard Bohm
Jeanette and Richard Brown
Linda Brown and Claudia Hubbard
Robin and William Carr
Sherry and Scott Carter
Pati Chasnoff
Ellen and Jonathan Chilton
Marjorie and Steven H. Cooper
Louis and Dorothy Cumonow
Foundation Fund
Ann Darke and
David Goldberg
Rebecca Eiman
Ginny and Brad Epsten
Robert N. Epsten
Pella and Jack Fingersh
Robyn and Seth Freiden
Sandy and Steve Geduldig
Judy and Mitchell Glassman
Gail and Allen Gutovitz
Cathy and Joe Hiersteiner
Louise Hipsh and Neil Breslow
Kathy and Elliott Hollub
Judy Jacobs
Irma and Jack Katz
Marcia S. Karbank
NEXDINE Hospitality
Debra and Allen Parmet
Karen and Ed Porter*
Steven Sweet
Carol and Clifford Trenton
Amanda and Brad Koffman
Regina and William* Kort
Susan and Scott Krigel
Barbara and Allen Lefko
Sandy and Joel Leibsohn
Alice and Tom Lewinsohn
Beth and Michael Liss
Evan Luskin
Linda and Mike Lyon
Aaron March
Janet Mark and Frank Lipsman
The Miller Group
Ronna and Larry* Nussbaum
Susan and Steve Osman
Robert Palmer
Jennifer and Steven Paul
Esther and Lee Pearlmutter
Carol and David Porter
Sheryl and Michael Porter
Steve Revare
Miriam and Daniel Scharf
Marcia Schoenfeld and Fred Greenstein
Margo Soule and Thomas Schult
Janet and Alan Sear
Merna Siegler
Deborah Smith and Mark Myron
Blanche and Neil Sosland
Debbie Sosland-Edelman and Alan Edelman
Ann Stern
Elaine Feld Stern
Charitable Trust
Lisa and James Stevens
Cathy Tivol and Mark Maslan
Debbie and Steve Trenton
Maarten van Swaay
Carol M. Woods
Pamela and Michael Zanders
Joyce and Stan Zeldin
Auerbach-Hirsch Memorial Fund
Gail and Harry Himmelstein
Shirley White Fund for Village Shalom
Stanley J. Bushman
Stanley J. Bushman, 96, died peacefully at home on Friday, March 7, surrounded by Ann Canfield, his love of 59 years, and dear friends.
Stanley was born in Omaha, Nebraska, to William J. and Esther Bushman. He was predeceased by his parents and sister, Barbara Goodman, of St. Louis, Missouri.
Stanley graduated from Westport High School, which he attended to participate in the boxing program, achieving the skills to compete in the Kansas City Golden Gloves. He later graduated from the University of Missouri.
As a young entrepreneur, he began his career by acquiring an apartment building where he served as owner, manager and maintenance man. He built on his initial success with investments in multiple properties, later forming a partnership lasting more than 60 years with close friend Charles Helzberg to invest in various types of real estate and other investment activities.
Stanley earned great respect in the Kansas City community for his business acumen, attention to detail and principled way he conducted business throughout his life. His real estate knowledge and position in the real estate community was recognized by Mayor Ilus Davis, who appointed him to the Kansas City Housing Authority, where he continued to serve under Mayor Charles Wheeler.
Stanley was a visionary in the philanthropic community, serving as president of the Jewish Community Foundation; leader and major supporter of Village Shalom; creator and original funder of the Bushman Community Endowment Program, which creates education for nonprofits in the Jewish community to raise millions of dollars for their endowment programs; with Charles Helzberg, Ann Canfield and Sandy Baer was an original funder of the Teenage Arts Council at the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art; was on the board of councilors of the non-profit Menorah Hospital; and, as a young man, a Sunday school teacher at Congregation Beth Shalom. He served on several corporate boards, including Prom Motor Hotels.
He devoted much time counseling
leaders of profit and not-for-profit organizations, plus many people from varied backgrounds for whom Stanley always made time to hear their challenges and offer his advice. He often gave financial help to people in his private and confidential style, with love and compassion, for which he consciously avoided recognition.
Stanley was a lifetime student of varied interests, including art, ballet, travel, architectural design, barbeque, and, perhaps most of all, he was an exceptional and compassionate listener who loved life and enjoyed giving back to his community — a man of keen mind and strength of character.
His was a life of work, generosity and passion.
Stanley is survived by Ann Canfield; his niece Jill Goodman of St. Louis; and nephew Todd Goodman of St. Louis and Newport Beach, California.
Heartfelt thanks go to the exceptional care provided by his loving caregivers, led by Meron Samuel.
In lieu of flowers, Stanley’s wish is that you help someone, a friend or a stranger, each and every day as he tried to do throughout his life; or, alternatively, a donation to the Jewish Community Foundation of Kansas City
for the Strategic Growth Fund (5801 W. 115th Street, Suite 104, Overland Park, KS 66211).
Private burial was followed by a memorial service on March 9 at Congregation Beth Shalom.
Shirley Mae (Levine) Gaines
Shirley Mae (Levine) Gaines passed away peacefully surrounded by family on March 4 at the remarkable age of 102. She was born in Kansas City, Missouri, on Jan. 24, 1923, to Oscar and Hannah Levine. She was a lifelong Kansas City area resident.
Shirley became the Gaines family matriarch. She lived a life filled with love and laughter, and she orchestrated an endless stream of creative endeavors. She was the life of every party. In 1944, she married the love of her life, Jerome “Jerry” Milton Gaines, and together they built a beautiful life
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over 68 years of marriage. Their partnership was one of adventure, joy and unwavering support — a love story that stood the test of time.
A student of the Kansas City Art Institute, Shirley had a lifelong passion for the arts. Whether gardening, painting, performing or filling her home with music and laughter, she made life an art and incorporated her unique flair into everything she did. She was also a lover of theater and fashion. She was an extremely talented chef and gracious hostess whose artistic presentation of her cuisine made every gathering special.
Shirley and Jerry raised three wonderful children — Larry, Vicki and Margo — who joined them in countless family escapades, countless celebrations and business ventures, including notable Kansas City restaurants, where others could make memories as well. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jerry, and her siblings, Betty Linver and Melvin Lindsey. She was a loving grandmother to Todd, Amber, Jennifer (Ryan), Jacob, Jaron, Kerry (Kelsi), Kate (Brian), Christine (Ben) and nine great-grandchildren.
Shirley was a woman who made life vibrant, filling every room with laughter, every home with warmth and every gathering with love. When asked how she lived such a long life, she’d reply, “I just don’t worry!”
At 102, Shirley didn’t just live — she thrived. She truly won the lottery of life, and those lucky enough to know her hit the jackpot as well. Those whom she touched in her life will always remember her young-at-heart attitude, zest for life and twinkle in her expressive eyes.
A funeral service was held on March 7 at Mt. Moriah, Newcomer & Freeman Funeral Home to celebrate Shirley’s remarkable life. Burial followed at Mt. Moriah Cemetery South.
In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to Harvester’s. Shirley’s presence will be deeply missed by all of her family and friends who loved her. May her memory be a blessing now and forever.
William “Bill” Bernard Kort
William “Bill”
Bernard Kort, 78, of Leawood, Kansas, passed away peacefully on Feb. 27, leaving behind a legacy of love, wisdom and community service.
Born on July 7, 1946, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Albert and Elizabeth Kort, Bill lived a life filled with meaningful connections.
In 1971, Bill married the love of his life, Regina Kort. Together, they built a home filled with love and laughter, raising three children (with partners): Jason Kort (Dr. Heather Kort), Rachel Black (Matthew Black) and Ellie Kort (Ricky Catto). He adored his grandchildren, Asher Kort, Sydney Kort and Tali Black, and delighted in sharing life and his love of classical music with them.
Bill is also survived by his siblings, Michael, Robert and Alisa Kort; his mother-in-law, Sonia Warshawski; his brother-in-law, Morrie Warshawski; and his sister-in-law, Debbie Warshawski. He was a beloved uncle to Benjamin Kort, Elliott Kort, Leah Warshawski and Maura Warshawski. He also cherished his grandchildren’s pets, Alex and Bailey.
A dedicated member of his community, Bill was involved in The Temple, Congregation B’nai Jehudah; American Public Square; Kansas City Rotary Club; Truman Foundation; and the Midwest Center for Holocaust Education (as president). He was a passionate supporter of the arts, including the Epsten Gallery, UMKC Conservatory and the KC Lyric Opera. He loved golf, trains, model planes, crosswords and a wide variety of music.
Bill proudly served in the U.S. Army and earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing from the University of Wisconsin before building a successful career as a stockbroker, guiding clients with integrity and expertise. He took great joy in continuing to give financial advice through his blog, Kort Sessions,
into 2025.
Bill’s warmth, humor and generosity touched many lives. He believed in the power of meaningful conversations, good food — served “piping hot” — and lifelong learning.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Bill’s memory to the Midwest Center for Holocaust Education, American Public Square, Hadassah, UMKC Conservatory, or the American Cancer Association.
Bill’s impact will be felt for generations to come. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
Norton Starr
Norton Starr, a beloved husband, father, grandfather and dedicated mathematician, passed away on March 8 in Kansas City, Missouri, at the age of 88.
Born in Kansas City to Raymond and Hortense (Davidson) Starr, he grew up in a home that nurtured his love of learning. He attended the Pembroke Country Day School (K12) before studying at the California Institute of Technology. He then earned his A.B. from Harvard College and a Ph.D. from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where he also completed a postdoctoral fellowship and received the prestigious Goodwin Medal for Conspicuously Effective Teaching.
The most significant moment of Norton’s life came in 1957 when, as a senior at Harvard, he attended the Ivy League/Seven Sisters picnic in Kansas City and met Irene Stiefel, a soon-tobe freshman at Smith College. That serendipitous meeting sparked a lifelong love story. Their marriage in Kansas City, in July 1959, was followed by Irene’s two years of weekly commutes between their Cambridge home and the Northampton campus to complete her A.B. Their bond was a true partnership, built on shared intellectual curiosity, unwavering support for each other’s careers, and, above all, love for their family.
In 1966, Norton and Irene moved to Amherst, where they filled their home with warmth, laughter and learning. Norton became a Professor of Mathematics at Amherst College, devoting 43 years to his students and colleagues before returning to Kansas City in 2013. He found great joy in teaching, particularly in analysis and
probability, and had a special interest in the misuse of data and mathematics. His pioneering work in computer graphics during the 1970s was widely exhibited and frequently used in journals and texts. As department chair, he played a key role in the construction of the college’s new mathematics building. His off-campus sabbaticals were in Waterloo, Ontario, and Christchurch, New Zealand. Despite his many academic accomplishments, Norton’s greatest pride was his family.
He was a deeply involved father to Ethan and Andrew, encouraging their curiosity and intellectual pursuits. He was always present — whether helping with school projects, sharing books or engaging in deep discussions about math, puzzles and the world. His sons fondly recall afternoons spent in the Amherst College Math Department Library, where they absorbed the love of learning that defined their father’s life. Later, he embraced his role as a grandfather to Jeremy, with whom he shared his passion for trains, puzzles, chess and the joy of discovery.
Beyond academia and family, Norton had an insatiable intellectual curiosity. He was a dedicated New York Times reader, an avid crossword solver and a lover of classical music. He and Irene enjoyed biking, traveling and attending international puzzle conferences, where Norton delighted in collecting intricate, three dimensional wooden puzzles. He also gave back to his community, serving for years on the board of the Amherst Farmers Market and forming friendships that spanned generations.
Norton is survived by Irene, his beloved wife of 65 years; his two sons, Ethan and Andrew (Amy); and his cherished grandson, Jeremy. He also leaves behind his nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers (Lawrance D. Starr and Raymond (Pete) Starr), and his brother-in-law (Richard Stiefel).
A memorial service will be announced at a later date. Contributions in Norton’s memory may be made to the Amherst Survival Center, Amherst College, the Linda Hall Library, or a charity of one’s choice.
