Two’s AZA celebrates Marty Awards
Parashat Behar-Bechukotai
Shabbat times (Overland Park):
Candlelighting: 8:14 p.m.
Havdalah: 9:19 p.m.
Devinki pledges $1 million to K.I. Synagogue for building preservation
By Sam Kricsfeld Editor
Sam Devinki and Mary Stahl, longtime supporters of Kehilath Israel Synagogue, have pledged $1 million to establish the Kehilath Israel Devinki Building Preservation Fund. It will provide up to $50,000 for at least two decades for capital improvements to maintain the synagogue.
For Devinki, the dedication to K.I.’s future stems from more than seven decades of involvement — his family joined the congregation in 1951 and
were ardent supporters of the synagogue. Devinki has since served as vice president, president and now as honorary president-for-life. Among his many past contributions to K.I. was his involvement in the establishment of the synagogue’s current building, and he is keen for it to be kept in good condition.
“Being in the real estate business — particularly the property management business — I know what happens to
Government rescinds funding for Wishna play at Spinning Tree Theatre
By Sam Kricsfeld Editor
The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) rescinded a reimbursement grant to fund “First Generation,” a play commissioned by Spinning Tree Theatre, written by community member Victor Wishna and produced in partnership with Jewish Vocational Service (JVS).
“First Generation,” inspired by interviews Wishna had with young ref-
ugees, ran last month at the Johnson County Arts and Heritage Center and at JVS’ annual fundraiser. The play was
to be funded in part by the NEA, a federal government agency, which would reimburse $15,000 after the play was produced.
Spinning Tree Theatre, founded by Andrew and Michael Grayman-Parkhurst (the latter a member of the Jewish community), works to provide “opportunities for Kansas City metropolitan area young artists of all abilities,” including youth with disabilities, tuition-free.
On May 2, Spinning Tree Theatre received an email from the NEA saying that it withdrew the grant. The theatre shared on social media that it
HBHA bids farewell to three pillars of its community
This month, Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy (HBHA) marked the retirement of three people who each supported students for dozens of years — second-grade teacher Marsha Cowan, school nurse Elisa Pener and volunteer speech therapist Maxine Benson.
“Together, Cowan, Pener and Benson have embodied compassionate leadership and devoted care — qualities that have defined the HBHA experience for generations of students,” HBHA School Rabbi Elizabeth Bonney-Cohen said. “Their dedication has shaped the school’s culture in ways that will ripple through classrooms and conversations for years to come.”
Cowan and Pener were honored with a campus celebration attended by colleagues, families and friends. The event recognized their decades of service and the care they have shown to generations of HBHA students, featuring speeches from colleagues and scrapbooks filled with well-wishes and photos of memorable moments. Each was gifted personalized artwork, handcrafted by HBHA staff in appreciation of their
MCHE to host Holocaust Survivor Book Fair
HBHA school nurse Elisa Pener and second-grade teacher Marsha Cowan holding handmade gifts at their retirement celebration.
The exterior of Kehilath Israel Synagogue.
The cast of “First Generation.” (Brandon Parigo/Spinning Tree Theatre)
It is important to remember and stand in solidarity with those still held hostage by Hamas:
Leaders of Jewish Bulgarian community visit Kansas City
Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City has a long-lasting partnership with the Jewish communities in Romania and Bulgaria through its relationship with the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC). Last month, two representatives from the Organization of the Jews in Bulgaria (Shalom), Maxim Delchev and Dr. Alina Levi, visited Kansas City to meet with and learn from local leaders.
Bring Them Home Now
Delchev is the executive director of Shalom and the president of the religious Jewish community in Bulgaria. Dr. Levi recently was elected as the chairwoman of Shalom in March of 2025 and works as an ophthalmologist and an assistant professor at the Medical University in Sofia, Bulgaria. Both grew up in the Bulgarian Jewish community, participating in youth programs, camp and Jewish leadership opportunities. Dr. Levi is also the creator of the Gan Balagan
kindergarten and the Ronald S. Lauder School, both of which receive allocations from Jewish Federation.
Delchev and Dr. Levi met with community leaders and organizations during their visit. One such meeting was with Zohar Flacks and Annie Glickman of Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy (HBHA) so both parties could learn about their respective approaches to Jewish education.
“The work that’s happening in
Bulgaria is truly inspirational,” said Taly Friedman, Federation’s director of community building.
“Their Jewish day school opened just six years ago and already has over 200 students. I’m excited to see what they’ll do next.”
Delchev and Dr. Levi were also impressed by HBHA’s dual-track program and the school’s pluralistic approach to Jewish community building.
continued on next page
Members of Federation’s Israel and Overseas Committee, board and staff met with Dr. Alina Levi and Maxim Delchev. Pictured are (front row, from left) Mollie Berenbom, Sierra Debrow, Taly Friedman, Michelle Goldsmith, Dr. Alina Levi, Maxim Delchev, Sondra Freidman, Beth Liss, Becca Graham, Debbie Granoff, Patricia Uhlmann, (back row) Dori Jezmir, Victor Wishna, Barry Kaseff, Brenda Rosenthal and Derek Gale.
Maxim Delchev and Dr. Alina Levi wearing KC Hebrew heart shirts.
New Epsten Gallery exhibit celebrates legacy of Jewish women’s art
A new exhibit at The Epsten Gallery explores the evolving roles and contributions of Jewish women to ritual and communal life, as seen through the lens of artistic expression.
“Past and Present: Women in Worship” showcases pieces from the Michael Klein Collection, one of the largest private collections of Jewish art and ritual objects in the United States.
On display from May 12 through July 7, the exhibit is open during regular gallery hours, Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Located at The Epsten Gallery at Village Shalom (5500 W. 123rd St., Overland Park, KS 66209), the exhibition offers visitors a look at the evolving role of women in Jewish worship — from silent contributions made at home to active, public engagement through art. Every piece in the display has been designed and crafted by women, reflecting generations of creativity, devotion and innovation.
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While the two communities are an ocean apart, both share similar challenges and accomplishments. Both communities see a need for engaging young people as the pathway to a strong Jewish future. Shalom operates a 12-day overnight summer camp that reaches capacity merely days after enrollment opens. Similarly, The J KC operates several day camp opportunities throughout the summer, each of which fill up quickly after opening. Additionally, the first international chapter of B’nai Brith Youth Organization (BBYO) opened in Bulgaria in 1936, only 12 years after BBYO’s second oldest chapter started in Kansas
Exhibit organizers said that before the 20th century, Jewish women’s religious participation was largely centered in the home. Their observance came through preparing for Shabbat, cooking for holidays and crafting items such as Torah adornments and garments for male family members to wear in synagogue. These works represented a qui-
City.
“Visits like this one show that our communities’ relationship is about more than funding Jewish programs around the world,” Federation Community Planning Specialist Sierra Debrow said. “We have so much to learn from one another.”
Federation hopes to continue to deepen its relationship with the Organization of the Jews in Bulgaria, such as exploring the possibility of Bulgarian teens being a part of Maccabi Games in Kansas City next summer. Federation also looks forward to collaborating with JDC to deepen its connection to its other partner community in Romania.
et, yet powerful presence in communal worship.
Today, the organizers said, Jewish women’s creativity and spirituality are no longer confined to the private sphere. The Klein Collection includes everything from ceremonial textiles and Torah mantles to modern, boundary-pushing ritual objects — all made by women and for the full spectrum of Jewish observance.
“This exhibit tells a story of transformation — of how Jewish women have moved from the margins to the center of artistic and religious life,” said David Spizman, director of The Epsten Gallery. “It invites us to see Judaica not just as ritual objects but as living expressions of identity, memory and communal belonging.”
The exhibition is supported by the Polsky Family Supporting Foundation and The Epsten Gallery and is free to the public. More information is available at villageshalom.org/theepsten-gallery.
professionals Dr. Alina Levi and Maxim Delchev to learn about the Bulgaria and Kansas City partnership and the work Dr. Alina Levi does in the field of ophthalmology. Pictured are (from left) Eva Sokol, Dr. Alina Levi, Dr. Jason
and Maxim Delchev.
Chronicle submission deadlines
The following are the deadlines for articles, celebration announcements, Spotlight pictures, advertisements and editorials for upcoming Chronicle print issues. If you have any questions, please contact Sam Kricsfeld at samk@jewishkc.org.
5
MCHE to host Holocaust Survivor Book Fair
A selection of books available at the upcoming Holocaust Survivor Book Fair.
The Midwest Center for Holocaust Education (MCHE) will be hosting a book fair celebrating the legacy of testimony provided by local Holocaust survivors. The book fair, featuring books written or about local survivors, will have books available for purchase and opportunities to meet the authors or children of survivors.
The Holocaust Survivor Book Fair will be held in the social hall of The J (5801 W. 115th St., Overland Park, KS 66211) on Sunday, June 8, from 1:30 to 3 p.m.
Books that will be available feature the testimony of survivors Maria Devinki, Ben Edelbaum, Fela Igielnik, Judy Jacobs, Alice Kern, Klaus Frank, Jack Mandelbaum, Erika Mandler and Bronia Roslawowski. MCHE will also sell “From the Heart: Life Before and After the Holocaust,” featuring the profiles of 52 survivors and refugees. Survivors may be present to meet visitors and sign their profiles in the book.
The event is come-and-go, but registrations are requested at mchekc. org/rsvp-for-the-survivor-book-fair to help plan appropriate inventory for book sales.
The Holocaust Survivor Book Fair is cosponsored by Jewish Experiences, a collaboration of The J and Jewish Federation.
Holocaust Survivor Book Fair
Sunday, June 8, from 1:30 to 3 p.m.
The J, 5801 W. 115th St., Overland Park, KS 66211
Examples of artwork on display at The Epsten Gallery as part of its exhibit “Past and Present: Women in Worship.”
Eva and Dr. Jason Sokol hosted Jewish medical
Sokol
celebrations and community
100th Birthday
Adam Elijah Luetje
Adam Elijah Luetje, son of Susan Bernstein and Chucker Luetje, will be-
Eve Gershkoff Slusky
Eve Gershkoff Slusky, daughter of Dr. Joanna and Dr. David Slusky, will become a bat mitzvah on Saturday, May
Community member Jack Forman celebrated his 100th birthday on May 12.
Born on May 12, 1925, in St. Joseph, Missouri, Forman served in the military during World War II. He has lived his adult life in Kansas City.
Forman will be called to the Torah at Congregation Beth Shalom on May 24 in honor of his milestone birthday.
Devinki pledges $1 million to K.I. Synagogue for building preservation
continued from page 1
a building if you don’t maintain it,” Devinki said. “…If you don’t maintain the property, at some point, you can’t afford to maintain it; you can’t afford the mechanical systems, and stuff becomes so outdated that you have to start from scratch, and it’s just not practical.”
come a bar mitzvah on Saturday, May 31, at The Temple, Congregation B’nai Jehudah.
Adam’s grandparents are Bob and Phyliss Bernstein and Charlie and Sandy Luetje. He has three siblings, Chad (20), Julia (18) and Allison (16).
An incoming freshman at Blue Valley North, Adam recently completed 8th grade at The Barstow School. He enjoys lifting weights, riding his electric dirt bike and playing on the football and track and field teams.
For his mitzvah project, Adam is collecting and donating headphones to Children’s Mercy Infusion Clinics.
24, at Congregation Beth Israel Abraham and Voliner (BIAV).
Eve, called Havi by her friends and family, is the granddaughter of Dr. Arthur and Grace Gershkoff of Ardmore, Pennsylvania; Dr. Susan Slusky of Highland Park, New Jersey; and Ronald Slusky of Keyport, New Jersey. A 6th grade student at Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy, Havi enjoys gymnastics, dance, volleyball and basketball. She also attends Camp Ramah in Wisconsin.
For her mitzvah project, Havi has been volunteering at Village Shalom. Family and friends are invited to attend a Kiddush at BIAV following Shabbat morning services.
In order to prevent the synagogue from deteriorating, Devinki and Stahl are establishing the Kehilath Israel Devinki Building Preservation Fund through the Jewish Community Foundation, having pledged $1 million.
“Because I have the ability — and that’s thanks to my parents [Fred and Maria Devinki] that I have the ability — I decided to create a fund that would help make some of these capital improvements, which hopefully will prolong the life of the building for another 20 or 30 years, at least,” he said.
“The fund allows us the ability to focus on growing the synagogue instead of worrying about expensive capital improvements such as the replacement of air conditioners, et cetera,” said Shelley Palmarine, K.I.’s executive director. “This will help ease the burden of running the synagogue which, [like] most religious institutions, finds the squeeze of payroll and maintenance taking up a huge part of the revenue.”
K.I.’s current building, located at 10501 Conser in Overland Park, was completed nearly 40 years ago. Its construction was a major community achievement, and The Chronicle ran a special section about the building’s dedication in February of 1986. Staff writer Michael Deverey wrote that “upon entering Kehilath Israel Synagogue for the first time, one realizes it is larger than it first appears from without and is exceedingly well planned,” and “the theme of permanence and tradition — concerns of the congregation — are expressed
subtly throughout the building.”
Since then, Devinki has seen a shift in K.I. membership in terms of both people and demographics.
“Unfortunately, like with most synagogues, its membership has declined from what it was 50 years ago… and the older members, who were the guys who were around when we built this building, had a dedication to it and had the financial ability to maintain it — a lot of those people are gone,” he said. “Newer members have an interest in the synagogue and certainly want to be involved in the synagogue, but many of them don’t have the financial capabilities that [older families] had.”
Devinki said that while people often want the synagogue for services such as b’nai mitzvahs, weddings and funerals, the synagogue still has to operate on a daily basis. Though there are still dedicated members who come to shul every week, Devinki says their numbers have declined.
In addition to the Devinki Building Preservation Fund, the Devinki family also funded the Kehilath Israel Fred Devinki Religious School in 2007, later making it free for all Jewish children in the community. Sam Devinki noted that these contributions are focused on preserving synagogue life and Jewish tradition for future generations.
The first page of a special tribute to Kehilath Israel Synagogue from The Chronicle in 1986 upon the congregation’s move to Overland Park.
“We want to educate our children, and we hope by educating them in Jewish tradition and Jewish knowledge that they will find the synagogue an important thing in their lives,” he said.
Jack Forman
Bar Mitzvah
Mary Stahl and Sam Devinki in 2023.
Bat Mitzvah
KU Chabad celebrates JewishU program graduates
This spring marked another graduating cohort of students of KU Chabad’s flagship program, JewishU.
The goal of JewishU is to provide students with a variety of advanced Jewish courses, engaging them in active Jewish learning. This semester, dozens of students dedicated multiple hours each week to Jewish study study. From the Think Jewish course of the Sinai Scholars Society to other offerings this spring, participants wrapped up a semester of Jewish discovery.
“JewishU allows you to explore yourself and find out what truly matters to you,” said Charles Lachman, a KU sophomore who joined a JewishU course this semester. “It allows you to take the purpose that already exists in this world and create your own meaning out of it. I'd highly recommend all college students take this amazing op-
portunity to get involved and enroll in at least one JewishU class to see how transformative it can be.”
At the start of each semester, students can choose from a variety of courses, ranging from Jewish Living Day by Day, a class exploring practical Jewish law; to Soul Mates, an indepth look at relationships; to Letters
for Life, a course delving into mental health and wellbeing from a Jewish perspective. Students also have the option to convert their class participation into scholarship funds to support future Jewish programming.
“We seek to foster a sense of Jewish identity and belonging by engaging Jewish students at their own pace and
comfort level in a warm and non-judgmental environment,” said Rabbi Zalman Tiechtel, co-director of KU Chabad. “We find that the greatest way to foster their Jewish identity is by offering innovative educational programs in all areas of Jewish life.”
Keira Cohen, a junior from Scottsdale, Arizona, joined the Living Jewish course this semester. She said, “JewishU has helped me find easily accessible Jewish wisdom. It is honestly one of my favorite things that I experienced during my past year in college. I am so thankful for having had this experience.”
The JewishU program is funded by a grant from Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City and donors, with the key benefactors being Irv and Ellen Robinson. As the semester winds down at KU, registration is already open for next semester.
KC SuperStar semifinals set for June 5 at The White Theatre
KC SuperStar semifinalists are almost ready for the next round of competition.
The KC SuperStar semifinals will take place on Thursday, June 5, at 7 p.m. at The Lewis & Shirley White Theatre, located at The J (5801 W. 115th St., Overland Park, KS 66211). Admission to the event is free, and attendees are encouraged to bring diaper donations to benefit Happy Bottoms, a local nonprofit dedicated to providing diapers to families in need.
Now in its 16th year, KC SuperStar is Kansas City’s premier high school singing competition, showcasing the top vocal talent from across the metro area. After a competitive audition process that drew students from 57 different area high schools, 21 semifinalists remain to compete in this round.
“The KC SuperStar semifinals are an exciting night every year,” said 2025 cochairs Jennifer and Steven Paul. “We love seeing these incredible young performers step into the spotlight and give it their all. You never know when you’re watching the next big star take that stage for the first time.”
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).
From these semifinalists, the judges will select the top 10 performers who will advance to the KC SuperStar Finals on Sunday, Aug. 24, at Yardley Hall in the Midwest Trust Center at Johnson County Community College. Finalists compete for the grand prize of a $10,000 college scholarship, with additional scholarship awards for all final-round contestants.
This year’s panel of judges – Mauris-
host for the semifinals. Lewallen is an award-winning performer who has acted, sung and danced all over the world, including his critically-acclaimed performance as Lonny Barnett in the Original Broadway Tour of “Rock of Ages” and International Farewell Tour of “Jesus Christ Superstar.” In addition, he served as a finalist in Kansas City Idol, opening for Kelly Clarkson and Clay Aiken’s national American Idol tour.
sa Cunningham, John Long and Abby Parra – have deep ties to the competition and the music industry. 2019 KC SuperStar winner and recent college graduate Cunningham performs in the Kansas City metro area and has performed with Norwegian Cruise Line; 2013 KC SuperStar finalist Long is a professional vocalist and music producer; and Parra is the lead vocalist for local indie/folk band The Canterberries and was a 2013 finalist for KC SuperStar.
Patrick Lewallen will serve as the
5, at 7 p.m.
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 semifinals Thursday, June
The White Theatre, 5801 W. 115th St., Overland Park, KS 66211
2024 KC SuperStar contestant and eventual winner Magdalena Nguyen speaks with host Rich Linden at last year's KC SuperStar semifinals.
Pictured are a portion of the more than 100 Jewish students who participated in KU Chabad’s JewishU program this year.
This week in history
10 years
35 years
50 years
MARTYAWARDS SAMDEVINKI
MARSHACOWAN
ELISAPENER
• Blintz Blitz (pg. 9)
SPINNINGTREE
• Book fair (pg. 3)
• Britt Frank (pg. 12)
• Epsten Gallery (pg. 3)
MAXINEBENSON FIRSTGENERATION
• Marty Awards (pg. 10)
VICTORWISHNA BOOKFAIR
• Father’s Day Run (pg. 8)
• Maxine Benson (pg. 1)
EPSTENGALLERY BULGARIA SUPERSTAR
• “First Generation” (pg. 1)
JEWISHU KOSHERKNIVES FATHERSDAYRUN
• Bulgaria (pg. 2)
• Geological surveys (pg. 11)
• Sam Devinki (pg. 1)
• Spinning Tree (pg. 1)
DAYNAGERSHON CHADKING BLINTZBLITZ
GEOLOGICALSURVEYS BRITTFRANK
• Chad King (pg. 8)
• Dayna Gershon (pg. 8)
• Elisa Pener (pg. 1)
• JewishU (pg. 5)
• Kosher knives (pg. 8)
• Marsha Cowan (pg. 1)
• SuperStar (pg. 5)
• Victor Wishna (pg. 1)
AJewishCryptogram
Molly Rissien (center) is the first to graduate with a special major in Jewish Studies from the University of Kansas. Morgan Goldstein (left) and Rebekah Durham (right) earned minors in Jewish studies.
The Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy Class of 1990 are (from left) Alan Shafton, Elisa Heiligman, Jonathan Ellis and Heather Betzer.
Preparing for the 1975 Brandeis Women installation meeting are (from left) Mesdames Roger Navran, Melvyn Paul and Phillip Gerson.
The Statland Clinic team, comprising Maury Kohn, Mike Sokol and Scott Hecht,
Above: Thirty-three Hadassah members, associates, family members and friends attended the 23rd annual Walk with a Friend for Health at Gezer Park in Leawood. Funds were raised for the Gandel Rehabilitation Center at Hadassah Hospital Mt. Scopus in Jerusalem, which provides much-needed rehabilitation services for IDF soldiers and civilians.
Left: Hadassah Greater Kansas City Board members recently attended the “Anything Is Possible” Hadassah Midwest Conference in Illinois. Pictured (from left) are Leah Haller, Marci Cain, Hadassah National President Carol Ann Schwartz, Rita Shapiro, Liz Bamberger, Adryan Steinberg, Debbie Goodbinder and Julie Spiegel.
The Midwest Center for Holocaust Education (MCHE) recently recognized Outstanding Community Partner honoree Suzanne Ryanstrati (right) for her work incorporating local survivor testimony into a modern dance piece commemorating Kristallnacht. She is pictured with MCHE Past President Joyce Hess.
young leaders with the skills to support themselves, their peers and students with disabilities in all areas of Jewish life. This year’s graduates are (from left) Avital Falicov, Sophie
Above: As part of its Jewish American Heritage Month programming, JCRB|AJC hosted Kansas Representative Dan Osman and Overland Park Mayor Curt Skoog for a panel discussion, moderated by two Leaders for Tomorrow students, with a Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy student audience.
Left: Members of J-LEAD, the Jewish Community Foundation’s young adult giving circle, recently met for their annual grant deliberation event where they heard presentations from applicant organizations and discussed how their support could make an impact.
Jewish War Veterans Mo-Kan Post 605 welcomed three new members this month. Pictured with Commander Howard Noah (center) are Steven Gordon and Julie London. Not pictured is Mark London.
Simcha Gifts volunteers Dini Freed and Erica Bush were among the many volunteers who packed and delivered Passover packages, which included handmade shmura matzah, candles and more.
Congregation Beth Torah's Weiner Religious School students planted flowers (donated by Suburban Lawn and Garden) as a mitzvah project outside the synagogue during Sunday School.
won the Sunday Morning Kansas City B’nai B’rith Men’s Bowling League RollOffs on May 18. See page 9 for scores.
Left: The third cohort of the Sasone Teen Leadership Training concluded on May 4. This program equips
Nemstev, Melena Carter, Naava Kopelman and Leora Stein.
Hadassah
Simcha Gifts
Flower Planting Sasone Teen Leaders
MCHE Honoree
By Ellie Holsten
In order for an animal’s meat to be kosher, it needs to be slaughtered following the guidelines of kashrut. One important part of a kosher slaughter is using the correct size of knife. A chalif, the knife used for kosher slaughter, needs to be about 2/3 the width of the neck of the animal it is used to kill. The blade needs to be extremely sharp so that the animal can be slaughtered quickly and humanely.
Kosher knives
Village Shalom Father’s Day Run and 25th anniversary celebration set for June 15
Village Shalom’s Father’s Day Run is back for another year, and this time, will also mark the organization’s 25 years on the Helzberg Campus for Jewish Living and 113 years of service in the Kansas City Jewish community. It will take place on June 15 at Village Shalom (5500 W. 123rd St., Overland Park, KS 66209).
kids “Fun Run” with participation medals; and a post-race block party with food trucks, music, kids’ activities and a signature ice cream flavor created by Summersalt Ice Cream Co. The ice cream is also available for purchase and pre-order at villageshalom.org/donate/ cherry-jubilee-surprise (until June 6).
These knives, from early 20th-century Lithuania, are sized appropriately for four different animals and kept in cases carved with those animals: cows, rams, ducks and chickens.
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.
HBHA bids farewell to three pillars of its community
continued from page 1
lasting impact.
Cowan is retiring after a 46-year teaching career, including 29 years at HBHA, where she ultimately found her home in the second-grade classroom. Holding a K–9 teaching certification, she taught nearly every grade level over the course of her career. Her passion for learning and professional growth was evident in her pursuit of ongoing development, ranging from social-emotional learning to language arts and math pedagogy.
Cowan said she will miss the kindness of her colleagues and the smiles of her students, and she deeply values the unique joy of watching former students grow up and remain part of the HBHA community.
Pener served as HBHA’s school nurse for 30 years, known not only for her medical care but also for her calm presence and willingness to pitch in wherever needed. From tending to scraped knees and teaching health to managing schedules and support-
Originally launched in 1987 as the May Day Race, the Father’s Day Run is a long-standing tradition that ran strong through 2017. After a brief pause due to construction and the pandemic, the race made a comeback in 2024, drawing more than 400 attendees. This year, Village Shalom is building on that momentum with the help of its newly re-established Associate Board for an even larger celebration.
The Father’s Day Run features a 5K and 10K run/walk with class awards; a
Proceeds benefit Village Shalom’s dementia care and memory support services, supporting its ongoing mission of compassionate care for older adults and their families.
In addition to registering, those interested in being involved with the Father’s Day Run can volunteer before or during the event.
Registration and event information is available at fathersdayrun.org. More information is available by contacting Hope Howe at hhowe@villageshalom. org or (913) 266-8119.
Father’s
Day Run
Sunday, June 15
B’nai Jehudah announces recipients of new awards
ing lunch and recess duty, she embraced every part of school life — and quickly became an integral part of the HBHA family. Pener says she’ll miss caring for the HBHA community but looks forward to her newfound free time, which she plans to spend with her family.
Benson has supported HBHA students for the past decade. A seasoned professional with more than 50 years of experience in early childhood education and speech therapy, Benson worked with roughly 15 students a year, helping them develop clarity, confidence and strong communication skills. Though never an employee, she became a beloved part of the school community.
Benson, who describes HBHA as her “happy place,” will now spend more time in Florida with her husband.
The Temple, Congregation
B’nai Jehudah announced two new awards and their winners at its annual meeting. The awards, the Neshamah Award and the Mensch of the Year Award, went to Dayna Gershon and Chad King, respectively.
These new awards were created by B’nai Jehudah Senior Rabbi Stephanie Kramer to begin a tradition of honoring a B’nai Jehudah staff member and a volunteer each year.
“It’s no small task choosing just two people, especially in a community as remarkable as ours,” Rabbi Kramer said at the annual meeting. “When I began thinking about this, so many names immediately came to mind.”
The inaugural Neshamah Award, intended for staff members “whose soul shines through everything they do,” was given to Dayna Gershon, the syn-
agogue’s director of education. She was chosen due to her assistance and kindness at the synagogue even beyond her role. “She brings vision, calm, kindness and creativity to everything she touches,” Rabbi Kramer said about Gershon. “Not once — not ever — has she said, ‘That’s not my job.’”
The Mensch of the Year Award, given to Chad King, is for outstanding volunteers. King was honored for being a “constant presence” at the synagogue, planning Brotherhood events, managing spreadsheets and security systems, salting sidewalks and more.
“[King] is truly a constant presence here at the Temple,” Rabbi Kramer said. “He’s always looking for ways to help.”
The slate of the 2025-2026 Board of Trustees and Endowment Committee was also announced at the annual meeting.
Village Shalom, 5500 W. 123rd St., Overland Park, KS 66209
Dayna Gershon and Chad King were each recipients of new awards from B’nai Jehudah.
Maxine Benson
community news Government rescinds funding for Wishna play at Spinning Tree Theatre
continued from page 1
believes this to be a result of “initiatives implemented by the Department of Government Efficiency.”
Wishna said the email from the NEA “seemed like almost a strange AI-generated joke, with priorities such as ‘making the District of Columbia safe and beautiful.’ Of course, the real priority, as reflected in the [Trump] administration’s proposed budget, is to eliminate the NEA altogether.”
Spinning Tree launched an emergency fundraiser which has since garnered the money from community members to offset the $15,000 in canceled grant money. Michael Grayman-Parkhurst said that Spinning Tree also “filed an appeal with the NEA, as encouraged by Americans for the Arts… and are reaching out to congressional representatives, funders and our young artists’ families to take this opportunity to highlight the value of Spinning Tree and the arts in general.”
“We are nimble and flexible, especially since reimagining our nonprofit to serve youth of all abilities during the pandemic,” Grayman-Parkhurst said. “We are committed to producing
the final show in our season… and we are adapting our 2025-26 organizational budget with the strong possibility there might not be federal funding for the arts.”
JVS partnered with Wishna and Spinning Tree on “First Generation” — the play’s theme highlights refugee stories, and JVS provides refugee and resettlement assistance.
“Now, more than ever, the experiences of refugees and immigrants deserve and need to be shared,” said Hilary Cohen Singer, JVS executive director. “This new work (‘First Generation’), and others like it, have a huge impact on local young people — allowing refugee and immigrant youth to see their stories represented and exposing the young actors to perspectives they might not have otherwise encountered. Both Spinning Tree and JVS work to strengthen and enrich Kansas City, and our whole community suffers when changes to federal policies and funding jeopardize our ability to carry out our important missions.”
The rescission of NEA funding for “First Generation” comes amid significant changes to the government’s pol-
B’rith Bowling Scores
icies towards public arts and culture funding (such as restructuring the Kennedy Center board and proposing to eliminate the NEA next year). Despite this, Wishna is optimistic about the future of the arts.
“The arts will be fine... I think that the arts and artists will not only outlast this chapter, but respond to it,” he said. “And private funding, from corporate foundations to individual donors, have been stepping into the gaps... But I do think that public funding is essential, as it makes more art possible and serves as a catalyst for more investment in the arts — such as the matching reimbursement grant that Spinning Tree had been promised — and the economic impact and community and educational opportunities that come with that.”
Wishna also said that none of his projects in the works will be affected by a lack of public funding, but “there will no doubt be an effect on how far theaters are willing to go to take on new work.”
Beth Torah’s ‘Shavuot Blintz Blitz’ to return
Just in time for Shavuot, Congregation Beth Torah is bringing back its cheese blintz fundraiser, featuring handmade blintzes crafted from Michael Crane’s grandmother’s recipe.
Following the success of last year’s Yom Kippur break-the-fast fundraiser — in which over 50 dozen blintzes were prepared and sold — this year’s event, dubbed the “Shavuot Blintz Blitz,” is expected to draw even more support from the community.
Shavuot, a holiday that commemorates the giving of the Torah, is traditionally celebrated with dairy foods.
Blintzes are available by pre-order only at beth-torah.org/blintz-blitz. Pickups will be held on Erev Shavuot — Sunday, June 1. Orders will be distributed vacuum-sealed, frozen and ready to fry and eat.
More information and prices are available at beth-torah.org/blintzblitz.
Memory Care communities. Maintenance-free, private apartments and specialized care from our caring staff give peace of mind to you and your loved ones. Learn more at VillageShalom.org or call 913-303-4826 or 913-317-2600 to tour our welcoming senior living community.
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community news
Third annual BBYO Marty Awards breaks records
More than 160 guests attended Two’s AZA’s third annual Marty Awards on May 10 at The J, shattering the event’s previous attendance record. Attendees celebrated the achievements of KC BBYO, strolled down the red carpet, ate gourmet desserts and experienced the party’s “Roaring ‘20s” theme.
The chapter raised more than $11,000 in donations and ticket sales. Twenty-nine Two’s members were present.
The award winners were: Bryan Persky, Aleph of the Year; Gabby Sosland, BBG of the Year; Claire Rosen, Mensch of the Year; Justin Parmet, Senior of the Year; Judah Bassin; Underclassman of the Year; and Friendsgiving, Program of the Year. Ariel Palan was named Chapter Sweetheart; Senior Lucy Warner was named honorary Belle of the Ball.
of Two’s AZA ahead of the chapter’s third annual Marty Awards.
Celebrating 101 years
ed how Two’s and the JFS Food Pantry are actively working to address food insecurity within the community.
shaping the AZA’s core values and mission.
“It absolutely blew my expectations,” said sophomore Will Widman, Two’s Mazkir.
This year, the Marty’s fell on the chapter’s 101st anniversary.
“It was amazing seeing so many people gathering to celebrate BBYO and Two’s 100 years later,” said sophomore Shaefer Spizman, Two’s Shaliach.
The night’s ceremonies kicked off with a video highlighting the chapter’s spring semester activities and programs, including Two’s 32-28 basketball victory over Nordaunian in April and the chapter’s two six-fold programs this spring.
The theme of the night was “Party Like It’s 1925,” honoring the past, present and future of KC BBYO. The gala featured gourmet cakes and cupcakes, a chocolate fountain, more than 100 old-fashioned craft sodas, cookies, macarons and mocktails.
“Tonight we will be transported 100 years back into the roaring 1920s, a time of innovation, resilience and, most of all, celebration,” sophomore Danny Martin said before introducing the hosts for the evening, Noah Bergh and Bryan Persky.
“This evening is all about honoring the outstanding accomplishments of my fellow Kansas City BBYO teens, alongside the amazing adults who keep BBYO running,” Martin said. “We will admire the dedication, leadership and resilience these individuals have brought forth. These are qualities which created the foundation 100 years ago. My great-grandfather, Julius Peltzman, an original Two’s member, was a person who embodied all these qualities. I am proud that today I am standing here before you wearing the same jersey he wore as starting point guard on the 1925 AZAA championship team.”
Spizman delivered a speech emphasizing the significance of “tikkun olam,” the Jewish value of repairing the world through acts of kindness and social responsibility. He highlight-
Ken Sonnenschein spoke on behalf of Mitzvah Garden KC, a volunteer-supported nonprofit garden with 100% of its harvests going to local food pantries. Two’s members have been volunteering at the Mitzvah Garden throughout the year as part of the chapter’s BBYO Stand UP campaign, “If I Had the World to Give,” aimed at ending child hunger in the community. Two’s announced it would be making a $400 donation to the Mitzvah Garden. Several skits were performed, including “Dad Jokes” with Micah Kramer and Jacob LaRoque; the annual “Funny Awards;” and a “Finish the Lyric” contest. The Marty’s also featured a raffle, with many guests walking away with prizes.
AZA #2 Hall of Fame
Two’s introduced a new honor at this year’s Marty’s: the Mnookin Memorial AZA #2 Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame is named in memory of Kansas City chemist Nathan Mnookin, the founder of the AZA movement and the adviser of AZA’s first two chapters. Mnookin’s daughter, Diane Mnookin Arnell, age 92, and her family were present at the Marty’s.
“It was truly special that each member of Two’s AZA took the time to personally introduce themselves and express their gratitude to Diane, honoring her and her father Nathan Mnookin for his pioneering work as one of the founders of the AZA movement,” said Two’s Advisor David Wexler, a cousin of the Mnookin family.
The inaugural class of AZA #2 Hall of Famers are:
• Philip Klutznick, William Horowitz, Lewis Sutin and Abraham Margolin, four founding members of AZA #2 who gave themselves the nickname “The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse” and played pivotal roles in
• The 1925 AZA National Basketball and Debate Champions. AZA #2 won the first ever AZA national basketball and debate tournament, held on March 21 and 22, 1925, in Omaha, Nebraska. The debate team consisted of Phil Klutznick and Bill Horowitz, college roommates at KU. The basketball team consisted of Phil Copland, Sidney Magazine, Julius Pelztman, Lewis Sutin, Is Pesmen and Harry Kaufman.
Striving for excellence
The Marty Awards, which debuted on May 12, 2023, was the vision of Two’s Aleph Miller Brown, who envisioned creating an Oscars-style formal awards ceremony honoring the accomplishments and achievements of members of Kansas City BBYO. This year’s event was chaired by Jason Persky, Judah Bassin and Shaefer Spizman.
“I’m really proud of all our members, especially our younger members, who helped contribute and make the night as amazing as possible,” said Bryan Persky, Two’s Aleph Godol.
It was a big year for Two’s AZA: the chapter launched a new website (twosaza.com), resurrected the chapter newspaper, designed a new logo, unveiled new basketball jerseys, accepted 21 new members, planned three “six-fold” programs and was one of eight chapters in the world to win the BBYO International Stand UP Gemilut Chasidim Chapter Award for its work to better their community through civic action.
Bassin was named a BBYO Rising Leader Award winner; Eli Nathan received the Tree of Life Recruitment Award; and Wexler was a finalist for the international BBYO Advisor of the Year Award. Two’s sent a delegation of 10 chapter members to Denver, Colorado, for the BBYO International Convention in February, while 18 members attended the Spring Regional Convention last month.
“We have our eyes set on winning BBYO’s Maurice Bisgyer Chapter Excellence Award at next year’s International Convention,” Wexler said. “Two’s AZA is committed to striving for excellence and inspiring others to reach for greatness. No. 2 in the Order, No. 1 in our heart.”
Members
Pictured at the Marty Awards are (from left) Will Widman, sweetheart Ariel Palan and Shia Kolb.
The Panacea for Summertime Stress
By Bridey Stangler PJ Library
We are hurtling through May toward the summer. Brace yourself, parents. There was a time when the word conjured images of relaxed and glorious freedom: fireflies and s’mores; sleeping in and riding bikes; going to bed happy, exhausted and smelling of sunscreen, hair still crunchy from the pool. And yet, it’s been years since that’s what summer meant to me.
Until only recently, I wondered what I was doing wrong. More than a decade of Junes have felt stressful, expensive and sort of sticky. Why, I asked myself, do these months seem to stretch so interminably; do I feel like my gas tank, both literal and metaphorical, runs on fumes; do I end each dog days like a puddle of melted ice cream, all but dissolved under the heat and pressure of – oh wait, I know why!
I have children: sweet, good-natured, endlessly energetic boys who fill me with joy, even while requiring transportation to “full-day” camps and daycares that end at 3 p.m. It hit like an epiphany last summer, in a hot car in construction traffic on our way home after two pick-ups and an ill-timed gas station stop:
To be a parent in the summer means shuttling around your favorite little people. And these people have been turned into beasts by heat, too much structured fun and mild dehydration. And the inevitable conclusion would be emotional collapse on all fronts. Unless something could be done. My husband, McKay, brilliant and handsome man that he is, suggested the perfect “Hail Mary” when we (finally) reached home. It was one that solved for cranky children and tired parents, for the heat of the day and any lingering energy. And it shone like a bright blue, shimmering mirage made real only two blocks away: Golden hour at the pool.
As you know, I’m sure, the pool is the summertime panacea, but have you experienced the wonder of ending your day there? It’s like magic. The pool empties out and quiets to a carefree hum, the sunset glows on the surface of the water like gold, and the pool manager replaces the top 40 playlist with millennial favorites from the likes of Ace of Base and Deep Blue Something.
When you stand on the tenuous cusp of early evening, I discourage you from slowing down for any of the midday necessities. Sunscreen, for example: the damage has already been done for the day. Don’t waste time by feeding the kids at home: have a cheap and questionably nutritious meal at the snack bar or pack your dinner into Tupperware and tote it along with you. Some crafty parents even sneak in half a glass of wine in their water bottles (not that I know such people). It is vital for shalom bayit, peace in the home, and wellbeing of all to get to the pool before anyone else can have a meltdown, and that includes you.
Because if you get to the pool with all haste after 5:30 p.m., you can be like us: a family transformed.
McKay and I wade in the shallows with toddler Rafy while 10-year-old Darby waves to us from the high-dive. We have a chance to talk and muse about the last time we heard the Spoon song that’s playing (senior year in college). We might plan a little something by way of pick-ups and drop-offs for the next day. But probably not.
Over the course of a pool evening, I become that girl again. I am the one who knows that summer is a time for laziness, for bending my own rules and for climbing into bed still smelling like chlorine.
We are often the last ones to be ushered out the gates, and I know that the same thing will happen tomorrow. The kids will have a wonderful time at their camps and still be cranky and tired, and it’ll again take twice as long as it should to get home because of construction, and we will again be on the verge of familial collapse. But I’ll have a plan.
And I can’t worry. Because for now, we’re walking home barefoot and wrapped in towels, and the fireflies are coming out.
Geological surveys held at Beni Israel Cemetery
In early April, the Lawrence Jewish Community Congregation (LJCC) hired Dr. Blair Schneider of the Kansas Geological Survey and her team to collect underground data at the Beni Israel Jewish Cemetery in Eudora. They utilized GPS, ground penetrating radar and magnetometry surveys.
This research is funded by a 2024 grant from the Douglas County Heritage Conservation Council and will fill in knowledge of the history of the cemetery, allowing the LJCC to place restored markers more accurately, locate the genizah sites (buried religious texts) and potentially find unmarked graves.
Initially, Dr. Blair’s team surveyed the historical part of Beni Israel Cemetery, spanning 910 square meters. They took GPS coordinates of all trees, headstones, benches, plot markers, genizah and grid boundaries. According to Research Assistant Ayla Alves Borges Faria, “This allows us to place all surface targets within a map to help us understand our data and to guide us as to where/what any anomalies seen in the dataset could be.”
They next conducted a magnetometry survey with 0.25-meter line spacing, which measures Earth’s magnetic field, with the help of LJCC members Caroline Caine and Azariah Betzalel. This survey helps to identify anything that contains metal or has been burned in the subsurface.
The second survey was a ground penetrating radar with 0.25-meter line spacing, which provides high-resolution imagery of subsurface features such as foundations and graves, helping to identify any potential unmarked burials. This survey was conducted over four days with the help of LJCC members Caroline Caine and Joey Seiwert.
The LJCC expects to receive results of the surveys toward the end of Au-
gust. Results are dependent on the timeline after “fieldwork season” –surveys and data collection happen when the weather is nice and warm, and often the team has between four and seven sites to survey scheduled for the months of March until August.
The final report will include maps of the area, maps of subsurface activities and “clean” datasets of all surveys. It will also include a description of anomalies, with markers on all the anomalies seen and what they could represent.
In addition to the historical information about the cemetery, the LJCC will use the detailed site map to refine the cemetery plot allotment map to plan for future burials. The county funding for this project also provided for improvements at the cemetery, including regrading the road, installing new signs, levelling and repairing headstones, adding a bench and offering two fall cemetery tours.
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A ground penetrating radar being used at Beni Israel Cemetery to collect underground historical data, along with Sky, a canine “research assistant.”
Bad, better, best — We put bagels
It all started with a grocery list. Or, to be more accurate, with an item left off of one. I had just jostled with a recalcitrant shopping cart inside the grocery store when my daughter texted me.
“Please pick up bagels, too.” “OK,” I typed. “What kind?” “Any,” she replied.
Off I and my squeaking cart went to the bakery section. However, even though it was ten o’clock in the morning, the bagels had already sold out.
Onward I wheeled to the bread aisle, but once I arrived at the bagel shelves, I stood there. And stood. And stood. Who knew there were so many brands of bagels? I had no idea which one to choose. But that was before the members of the National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) – Kansas City Section gave me the answer.
“Clear your palates. We’ll be doing a bagel-tasting at our next meeting,” I informed the members of JULIES, the organization’s cohort of retired women. When they arrived a few days later, they found five plates numbered one to five, hiding the identity of the brands of packaged bagels I had purchased: Dave’s, Pepperidge Farm, Thomas’, Udi’s Gluten-Free, and Wonder. Also available for schmearing was a cream cheese brick, but, alas, no toaster was available.
Each woman was provided score sheets upon which to record her preferences, assessing each selection’s aroma, taste and texture, the criteria suggested by food critics. “Notes” could also be added, as if they were judging fine wines.
And the results were…
No surprise to anyone, the gluten-free brand came in last. Udi’s was described as “hard, dry, and stale.” Tied for second place were Pepperidge Farm (“chewy” remarked one eater) and Thomas’ (“very bland” and “okay” wrote others). Third place went to Dave’s (summarized in one word: “awful”).
Which bagel was judged the best? Drum roll, please. The best brand of packaged, store-bought bagels
to the test
as voted by the retired women of NCJW-KC Section was Wonder Bagels. The company that claims it has “been bringing delicious tasting, soft textured bread to the table since 1921,” had produced the best bagel as judged by this gathering of Jewish women.
The selection of a Wonder bread product is particularly interesting considering Kansas City’s vital connection to that company and the bread-baking industry. According to a Kansas City historical tour, at the turn of the century Kansas City served as the hub of wheat production and distribution. No “wonder” the Wonder company was founded here in 1919. Originally known as the Continental Baking Company, according to a corporate website, a later iteration of the company was the first to popularize selling presliced bread, becoming at one time the largest baking company in the country.
As it turns out, Kansas City was also the birthplace of the English muffin. Legend has it this pastry was invented in 1910 when Fred Wolferman, son of the owner of Kansas City’s Wolferman’s bakery, stuffed bread dough into a tuna can.
Given all this local culinary history – and the fun we had at this tasting – NCJW-KC would like to hold a future contest to judge bagels from local bakeries instead of packages from the bread aisle. For instance, bagels could be procured from grocery bakeries, such as Hen House and Trader Joes and establishments such as Meshuggah, Panera and Einstein’s. To ensure that all entries are judged equally, the bagels would need to be bought on the same day. Whoever does the purchasing, however, needs to arrive way before 10 a.m.
Nancy Kalikow Maxwell is a Kansas City native and awardwinning author. Her latest book, “Typically Jewish,” is available through the Jewish Publication Society or Amazon. Her website is kaliwellinc.com and email is nancykalikowmaxwell@gmail. com.
community news
Local author Britt Frank releases second self-help book
Britt Frank, a licensed psychotherapist from Mission, Kansas, has released her second mental health book, “Align Your Mind,” intended as a guide to help readers address thought patterns, how they affect habits and behaviors and how to keep them from blocking success. It also offers mental tools to face adversity, bounce back from setbacks and operate with clarity, purpose and confidence.
them. 'Align Your Mind’ is my take on how to work with the voices inside your head. It’s my own framework, my tools and my take on how to simplify all the clinical noise and nonsense and make it really approachable for anyone. It’s not just for people with a mental health problem and are in therapy. If you have a brain, you need the book. It’s driver’s education for the brain.”
"Align Your Mind” is a sequel to Frank’s initial release, “The Science of Stuck.” Both books are available on Amazon, at Rainy Day Books and other book stores.
Frank grew up in a Jewish family in New York. She struggled for more than two decades with chemical/behavioral addictions, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, OCD, unhealthy relationships and complex PTSD. She eventually found her way out of that and became a therapist.
“Part of how I got healthy was through books,” Frank said. “I wrote these books because they are the books that didn't exist when I needed
Frank earned a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Duke University and a Master of Clinical/Medical Social Work from the University of Kansas. She was an award-winning adjunct faculty member at the University of Kansas, where she taught classes on ethics, addiction and clinical social work. She’s been mentioned in Forbes, Parade, New York Magazine, New York Times, Esquire, Cosmopolitan, Fast Company, Healthline and more. She’s also a keynote speaker and has been a guest on podcasts and radio shows.
More information about Frank is available at brittfrank.com.
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.
A letter to Senator Marshall
By Rabbi Mark Levin
Founding Rabbi of Congregation Beth Torah
On April 30, I sent this letter to our [Kansas] Junior Senator Dr. Roger Marshall. As of publication, I have not received a reply. I feel the Jewish community should know.
“According to today’s The Forward, Senator Roger Marshall insists that Federal legislation regarding antisemitism not include the most frequent and scurrilous antisemitic charge that resulted in murdering Jews for nearly 2,000 years, that Jews are responsible
for murdering Christ. I understand that this statement resides in Christian scripture. I also understand not only its historical inaccuracy but also that it places Jews outside of the protection of law in that Jews are condemned for the crime of deicide. As a matter of history, this charge has been the cause of the expulsion of Jews from every country in Europe except Denmark at some time in history, and resulted in the heinous and merciless murder of tens of thousands of Jews. Senator Marshall believes, according to The Forward, that this is protected speech regardless of its murderous history.
“Obviously, the Catholic Church repudiated this charge with Vatican II in continued on next page
Britt Frank with her new book, “Align Your Mind.”
By Ellen Portnoy
Tornado shelters vs. bomb shelters
Since my experience with the air raid sirens going off my second day in Israel, I have a new obsession: bomb shelters.
It is an easy obsession for me, because living in the Midwest has already led me to an obsession with tornado shelters. When we bought our house, I searched the basement for the ideal storm shelter: an area totally underground, no windows, close to a staircase (staircases are built extra strong) and nothing heavy overhead. I did not want to be sitting under a refrigerator. So it was easy for me to transfer my intense concern about tornado shelters to the essential concern for a bomb shelter.
In Israel, most people live in apartment buildings. The old ones were not built with shelters. Instead, when the sirens go off, the people sit in their building’s staircases, which have no windows and reinforced concrete. A somewhat safe place to sit through a barrage of rockets or bombs. I am ‘lucky;’ my daughter’s apartment has a mamad, a room in her apartment built of extra thick walls, reinforced concrete, a special window which has a thick metal plate that slides across, and a thick metal door.
But what do you do when you are outside? My daughter took me on a walk to explain sheltering when out-
continued from previous page 1965, in the famous theological statement known as Nostra Aetate. But I know that Senator Dr. Marshall is not a Catholic.
side. She suggested that I hide under an apartment building, as most have parking underneath.
She said, “Go to the north or west side of the house and take cover there. Those sides are safer.” She also told me to try the door. If it was unlocked, just go in. “What? To a building where I don’t know anyone?” “Of course,” she responded. “During a siren they want you to come in.”
In Israel, the government takes bomb shelters seriously. There are thousands throughout the country. This is definitely why, even though tens of thousands of rockets, drones, bombs and missiles have been launched towards Israel, tens of thousands of people have not been killed.
It’s just like in the Midwest, where our homes and public buildings have tornado shelters. Thus, even though we have many horrendous tornados, the death toll has gone down over the years.
After my daughter pointed out where to hide under a building, we walked two blocks to the shopping area nearby. In the back was the entrance to the shelter. It is near a staircase, in the center of the building. Bomb shelters are like tornado shelters in many ways.
As we continued on our walk along the streets and alleys of Holon, we walked through many small parks with playgrounds with bomb shelters locat-
ed in the center. What I liked about the shelters is that the outsides are colorfully decorated. In Holon, I think the same artist decorated many of them. I thought about how difficult it would be for children to stop playing to run into the shelter. But I thought back to when my children were young. They never argued when there was a tornado warning. When the sirens sounded, we all immediately went downstairs to the shelter. No discussion. No rebellion. Taking shelter was the immediate goal. Sometimes it was for 15 to 20 minutes, other times for an hour or more. But when it was over, life just resumed. I have to assume that children in Israel have the same response to a siren for a bomb attack as my children had for a tornado warning. Don’t argue, take shelter. But does life continue as before? I am not sure.
I do admit that not everyone takes shelter — sometimes, my husband would stand outside for a while and watch the weather. I have seen lots of videos of tornadoes heading towards someone’s home, until finally someone yells, “We need to go inside now.” In Israel, the same type of people stand outside and take videos of the Iron Dome rockets intercepting the missiles or bombs sent into Israel. I don’t quite understand this desire to watch in real time, but I do admit watching
these videos myself.
There is one major difference between a tornado siren and an air raid siren: the intent. For a tornado, you have to watch out for the debris. For a rocket/ missile, you have to watch out for the shrapnel. Similar, but not the same. Nature doesn’t take aim at your home because it hates you — it just is — while bombs falling around you are sent purposefully to kill you. That does change the dynamic of sheltering. Although tornado shelters are here to stay, people should not have to have bomb shelters in their homes or their playgrounds. Humans cannot stop tornadoes, but they can stop bombing each other with intent to kill. It is time for it to end.
Ellen Portnoy has a master’s degree in journalism from the University of Missouri. She is an active community volunteer who has traveled to Israel manytimes.
JFS staff participate in national conference with colleagues
By Hayden Rand JFS Director of Program Monitoring and Evaluation
“As a constituent and because the Senator’s position is a threat to my life, my family, and my entire community, I would like the opportunity to discuss the Senator’s position with him at his earliest opportunity. I would like the Senator to please explain to me his position and the reason for it. Given the graveness of the Senator’s position and my half century of service as a rabbi in this community, I believe a conversation is warranted.
Thank you for your help in this matter.”
Did you know that Jewish Family Services of Greater Kansas City is part of a robust network of Jewish social service providers across the United States and Canada?
The Network of Jewish Human Service Agencies (NJHSA) convened in Denver, Colorado, from April 27 to 30 for the annual PowerNet conference, with a 2025 theme of “Thriving in a Changing World.” I had the pleasure of joining my colleagues Debbie Bass (chief development officer), Angela DeWilde (CEO), Maggie Haghirian (chief program officer) and Melanie
Hayden (senior development director) at this year’s conference, gaining valuable insight from fellow social service professionals.
A highlight of the conference was a
visit to JFS Colorado, where we had the chance to tour its food pantry and learn about its program supporting economically vulnerable Jewish families. We also attended workshops on timely topic areas including fundraising, school-based mental health initiatives, housing assistance, chaplaincy, management training and even artificial intelligence. Most sessions were presented by agencies and providers themselves, sharing their real experiences and lessons learned from program implementation. Each one provided a place to ask questions, hear best practices and experience solidarity with those
A bomb shelter at a playground in Holon, Israel. (Ellen Portnoy)
Pictured at the recent Network of Jewish Human Service Agencies national conference in Denver are staff JFS staff members (clockwise from left) Debbie Bass, Maggie Haghirian, Angela DeWilde, Hayden Rand and Melanie Hayden.
Kansas Senator Dr. Roger Marshall
By Suzanne Galblum Dicken
Director of Philanthropy of the Jewish Community Foundation
commentary
Uncertain times: FAQs about charitable giving
Economic turbulence, inflation concerns and a general sense of financial instability have made 2025 a challenging time for donors and nonprofit organizations. In times like these, supporting the causes you care about may feel more complicated — but also more important than ever. Here are answers to some common charitable giving questions people are currently asking:
Should I give stock?
If you're looking to take advantage of current valuation levels with the market rebound, preserve cash or be more strategic with your giving, donating appreciated stock (shares that have increased in value since you bought them) might be a smart move. This approach can offer tax advantages and still provide strong support for nonprofits. Even in a down market, many
people own stock that’s gained value over time, making it a good option to consider. Always consult with your financial advisor to determine what works best for your situation.
Should I give cash?
While it doesn't have some of the additional advantages of contributing stock, donating cash is still a good option depending on the timing of your desired giving and the performance of investments you may hold. Giving cash is a meaningful and straightforward way to help and nonprofits rely on consistent support to keep their programs running—especially when demand for services is high.
How can I make the most of my giving during tough times?
Strategic giving helps charities plan ahead, even when the economy is unpredictable. If you're able to give now, you could set up recurring donations or plan your gifts for the year to provide steady support. You could also consider opening a donor advised
fund, which is an account specifically for charitable giving, at a provider like the Jewish Community Foundation. Donor advised funds offer flexibility, particularly in unpredictable market conditions. Many people appreciate having a reserve of charitable funds that enables them to maintain consistent support for the causes they love, regardless of market ups and downs. There's no one "right" way to give, but being intentional helps both you and the organizations you support.
What impact does my giving have in the community?
Our communal nonprofits are on the front lines—providing food, education, mental health support, spiritual services and more. Your donation helps organizations stay strong and serve others, especially when funding is uncertain. If you’d like to help, but are not sure how to make the biggest impact, our team at the Jewish Com-
munity Foundation can point you toward urgent needs and trusted organizations.
What
else should I keep in mind this year?
Giving during uncertain times is a powerful way to help stabilize and strengthen the causes you care about. If you’re considering your charitable contributions, think about both your short-term goals (like responding to emergencies) and long-term commitments (like supporting education, the arts or your synagogue). A planned gift, such as a gift from your will or retirement plan, can help ensure that your favorite organizations have the essential financial resources to weather difficult financial storms.
If you have additional questions or want to explore smart ways to give, contact me at sdicken@jcfkc.org or (913) 327-8286. I am ready to help you make the most of your giving, even in a year as unpredictable as this one.
JFS staff participate in national conference
continued from previous page
working in services like those provided at JFS Kansas City.
Haghirian, who’s been to the conference in the past, added, “How insightful to learn what other JFSs are doing to help repair the world. It’s energizing. It is also validating to be reminded how exceptional our own JFS KC staff and volunteer team are to changing lives.”
Along with learning what other member agencies have found to be successful practices, networking among professional colleagues was invaluable. CEO Angela DeWilde attended the one-day retreat for executive directors, connecting with a group of fellow JFS CEOs who can provide guidance and insight. Staff also connected with the Seed the Dream foundation and KAVOD SHEF around the crucial funds to which we connect Holocaust survivors each year.
In addition to valuable workshops, the conference hosted several keynote speakers. We heard from the Tony Award winning Alliance Theatre in Atlanta, Georgia, about
the power of using theater to tackle complex issues. Eboo Patel, founder of Interfaith America, spoke about the importance of building relationships outside the Jewish community while remaining rooted in the values that make it so unique. Finally, Rabbi Rori Picker Neiss and a panel of Jewish professionals engaged in a meaningful discussion around addressing antisemitism and interfaith engagement.
As we return to our daily work here in Kansas City, I reflect on the many reasons we are lucky to belong to a network that provides solidarity and support in a continually changing social and economic landscape. Personally, as someone who is not Jewish, opportunities like these serve as a reminder of what a privilege it is to work in a tradition so firmly rooted in strong values that chooses to see the best in humanity. In a rapidly changing world of continued division, challenges and resource scarcity, gathering with fellow human service professionals bolsters my hope to continue this work in partnership with such a supportive community.
Selma Kaufman Litwin
Selma Kaufman
Litwin passed away on May 8 at the age of 95.
Funeral services were held at Rose Hill Cemetery on May 9. Kindly in lieu of flowers, the family suggests that contributions be made to Kansas City Hospice House (12000 Wornall Rd., Kansas City, MO 64145).
Selma was ahead of her time, leading a successful business, COATS — the first wholesale to the public in women’s coats. She was an active member of The Temple, Congregation B’nai Jehudah’s sisterhood, Hadassah and the Jewish American Congress; an avid reader, Harry Truman Democrat, and one hell of a poker player; and she loved to talk politics. Her love for her family and friends was always her priority.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Sol and Susan Kupperstein; sister, Marna Bergman; husband, Leon Litwin; and son Arvin Kaufman. She is survived by her son Michael Kaufman and daughter-in-law, Johanna Holtzman Kaufman of New York City; son Dennis Kaufman of Kansas City, Missouri; most longingly, her grandson Joseph Kaufman and his
obituaries
wife Nicole Kaufman of Brooklyn, New York, and her grandson Jacob Kaufman of Kansas City, Missouri; nieces Margo Sack, Julie Sokol and Ellen Bigus; and her devoted dog, Benji. Condolences may be shared at louismemorialchapel.com.
Dennis Eugene Wacknov
Much loved husband, son, dad, Papa and original Chiefs fan since 1963, Dennis Eugene Wacknov passed away on May 11 from heart failure. He was 78 years old.
A lifelong bon vivant, Dennis was known among friends and family for his storytelling and generous hospitality, whether it be a lavish gourmet meal, cocktails at the country club, a neighborhood driveway gathering or rambunctious tailgates in G29 that boosted many spirits during the 1990s and 2000s.
After graduating from Shawnee Mission East High School (and painting the water tower to proclaim Class of 1965 graduation far and wide), Dennis spent one glorious semester at
University of Oklahoma before proudly serving as a sergeant in the Air Force for four years, from which he was honorably discharged. Once home, he used his charm and persuasion to the utmost as a salesman at Miller Pontiac until 1981, when he accepted a position at family business American Textile Mills/Nu Towel Company. As president of the company, Dennis carried on the family legacy both locally and internationally as a board member of the Secondary Materials and Recycled Textiles (SMART) Association before retiring in 2016.
Dennis was preceded in death by his wife, Stefani Wacknov; mother, Bonnie Wacknov; and brother, Craig
Wacknov. He is survived by his beloved wife, Larue; children, Stacey, Jason and Corey; father, Paul Wacknov; sisters Lisa (Peter) Bellis and Susan Jones; and grandsons Jonah Gross and Andy Callies.
Funeral services were held at Louis Memorial Chapel on May 16. Burial followed at Mt. Carmel Cemetery. A celebratory open house – in full Dennis style – was held at the Wacknov home in Lenexa.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the ALS Association at als. org/donate.
Online condolences for the family may be left at louismemorialchapel. com.
Gadi Kinda, Israeli soccer player and former Sporting KC midfielder, dies at 31
Gadi Kinda, an Israeli soccer player who spent four seasons with Sporting Kansas City between 2020 and 2023, died on May 20 at age 31.
His current team, Maccabi Haifa FC, announced on social media that they mourn his death. Earlier in May, the team shared that Kinda was hospitalized for “a complex medical battle.” In response to learning of Kinda’s health, Sporting KC shared a photo on May 10 of the team posing with Kinda’s jersey. On May 14, he appeared in a video from his hospital room in which he asked viewers to praying for him.
Kinda was born in 1994 in Ethiopia, immigrating to Israel as a child and subsequently playing for Israel Premier League soccer teams F.C. Ashdod and Beitar Jerusalem. In 2020, he joined Sporting Kansas City, for which he scored 14 goals and made 16
assists over the course of 64 games.
While in Kansas City, he participated in a soccer clinic hosted by Jewish Experiences in April of 2022. He later told The Chronicle that he was excited that Kansas City would be a host city for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Kinda returned to Israel to play for Maccabi Haifa from 2024 until his last game in late March. From 2021 to 2024, he also played for the Israel national team.
Kinda is survived by his wife, Liran, and two daughters.
Sporting Kansas City midfielder Gadi Kinda, fourth from left, is pictured at a 2022 Jewish Experiences soccer clinic with event committee members Mike Kolb, Finesse Soccer founder Carrie Fry Robinson, Sheryl Stein, Aaron Berger and retired professional soccer player and Olympian Sasha Victorine.
The Ruben Review
