kcjc.com | Volume 103, Issue 25 | December 7, 2023 | 24 Kislev 5784
Antisemitic incidents, anti-Israel student protests ongoing at KU, MU partnered with Al-Hadaf KC for a “Week of Palestinian Pride” in solidarity Antisemitism on college with “those who have been campuses has drastically targets of Zionist violence” increased since the outstarting on Nov. 27. break of the ongoing IsA sit-in protest followed rael-Hamas war, and the the second walkout as KU University of Kansas and did not meet MSA’s dethe University of Missouri mands, and additional are no exceptions. Stuprotests are expected. dent-led anti-Israel walkVideos provided to The outs with antisemitic signs Chronicle by Jewish KU and chants are occurring students show people at at the University of Kansas, the Nov. 27 protest repeatAnti-Israel protestors gather in Strong Hall at the University of and an empty table set up to ing the antisemitic chant Kansas in front of two large banners on Nov. 27. bring attention to the Israe“From the river to the sea, li hostages was destroyed at the Uni- (MSA), are being held to demand that Palestine will be free.” Two two-stoversity of Missouri. KU Chancellor Douglas Girod issue a ry banners were also hung from the statement on behalf of the universi- balcony of Strong Hall; one read Antisemitism at KU ty in solidarity with Palestinian and “Glory to the Martyred,” followed by As of publication, two anti-Isra- Muslim students. a list of names of Palestinians who el student walkouts have occurred After an initial walkout on Nov. 20, were killed, and the other read “Stop on the KU campus, with dozens of a second was held on Nov. 27 because the Palestine Genocide; Free Gaza.” student protestors engaged in anti- the demands hadn’t been met. Both Protestors chanted “Ceasefire semitic chants while carrying signs walkouts began on the lawn of Allen now,” despite the fact that there was and posters. The walkouts, organized Fieldhouse and ended in the center See page 9 by KU’s Muslim Student Association of campus in Strong Hall. MSA also By Sam Kricsfeld Editor
Sam Devinki travels with Holocaust memorial museum for meeting with Pope Francis By Lacey Storer Assistant Editor Community member Sam Devinki recently had a rare opportunity, one that most people never experience: He had a face-to-face meeting with Pope Francis. Devinki was one of nine former and current council members of the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum (USHMM) who was asked
to participate in a special trip to Italy. Though the itinerary included stops in Venice and Milan, the purpose of the trip was to visit the Vatican in Rome to thank the pope for releasing the personal papers of Pope Pius XII from World War II. “He’s the first pope to do that,” Devinki said. See page 8
Community member and United States Holocaust Memorial Museum council member Sam Devinki shakes hand with Pope Francis in Vatican City.
Head of JFNA addresses KC Jewish community
Eric Fingerhut speaking at Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City’s annual meeting on Nov. 30.
By Lacey Storer Assistant Editor Eric Fingerhut, president and CEO of Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA), visited and spoke to the Kansas City Jewish community last week. Fingerhut was the keynote speaker at Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City’s annual meeting, held on Nov. 30 at the Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art at Johnson County Community College. Since the outbreak of the war, Fingerhut has led JFNA in directing and distributing funds and donations to Israelis in need. He was also instrumental in organizing the Nov. 14 March for Israel at the National Mall in Washington, D.C., and was coincidentally in Israel on Oct. 7. He has traveled back to Israel multiple times since the war began. Israel and the Jewish community’s response was the main focus of Fingerhut’s speech. He likened the Oct. 7 attack on Israel to a five-alarm fire, and the 145 Federations across North America and their respective communities to fire departments working to rebuild and fix the damage after the fire. “When there’s a five-alarm fire in See page 10
December 7, 2023 | Page 2
kcjc.com
community news
Richard Berkley, Kansas City’s first Jewish mayor, dies at 92 By The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle staff Richard L. Berkley, the first Jewish mayor of Kansas City, Missouri, died on Nov. 29 at age 92. He was the city’s longest-serving mayor, serving three terms in office between 1979 and 1991. “Mayor Berkley leaves behind an extraordinary legacy of service to our community,” current Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas wrote in a statement. “...Mayor Berkley helped our community come together after the Hyatt Regency Skywalk collapse, oversaw the transformation of our downtown skyline, and through his appointments to boards, commissions, and Council positions, created new opportunities for Kansas Citians of all backgrounds. A humble man, Mayor Berkley nonetheless drew the support of leaders nationally, serving as the president of the United States Conference of Mayors and shaping civic life in Kansas City over the 1980s.” Former Kansas City mayor and current U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver wrote in a statement that he “lost a dear friend, and Kansas City has lost an iconic leader… Dick Berkley offered the calm, collected, and utterly effective leadership that helped transform Kansas City into the major metropolitan area it is today… Although he was a Republican, and I a Democrat, I cannot recall a single moment when Mayor Berkley was anything less than helpful, supportive, and committed to the progress and unity of our communities — because that was all that mattered in his eyes. I believe that is something to be treasured, and something
Kansas City Chiefs founder Lamar Hunt (left) presents Mayor Mayor Richard Berkley in his office in 1986. (The Kansas City Richard Berkley with the 1994 Kansas Citian of the Year award. Jewish Chronicle archives) Kricsfeld (The Kansas City Jewish ChronicleSam archives)
that will be sorely missed.” Berkley was born Richard Berkowitz in Kansas City in 1931. His family owned Tension Envelope Corp. (His cousin, Bill Berkley, is currently its president and CEO). He held an undergraduate and master’s degree from Harvard University. When elected in 1979, he was a member of New Reform Temple, and he was the first recipient of the Civic Service Award from Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy in 1974. He and his family have been longtime supporters of the Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City and the greater Jewish community. Upon Berkley’s election, The Chronicle’s editor, Milton Firestone, wrote the following in an editorial in the March 30, 1979, issue: “The Jewish Chronicle has never endorsed political candidates, and we
did not do so in the primary or general elections for mayor or city council. Nevertheless, we share with the entire Jewish community a rightful sense of pride that, for the first time, one of its distinguished sons has been elected to the city’s highest office. Dick Berkley has been an active and forceful figure in Jewish community activities, and we feel sure he will be a good mayor who will seek to unite the entire community — including all party labels, all races and religions — for the important challenges which face this city.” “He was just a great champion and cheerleader and proponent of all of Kansas City, and I underline the all of Kansas City,” Bill Berkley told The Kansas City Star. “There was no place in this city that he didn’t go to, if anyone needed him. He was never too busy to take a call or to help someone. He was really a man of the people.”
Editor & Business Manager
Sam Kricsfeld
samk@jewishkc.org Editor & Business Manager samk@jewishkc.org
Lacey Storer Assistant Editor Lacey Storer laceys@jewishkc.org Assistant Editor
laceys@jewishkc.org
Questions regarding subscriptions may be directed to Questions regarding subscriptions may be directed to 913-327-8116 Mayor Richard Berkley presenting the 913-327-8116 or samk@jewishkc.org key to the city to former refusenik Yakov Gorodetsky (right) in June 1986. (John or space samk@jewishkc.org Advertising reservations are due by Carmody, The Kansas City Jewish Chroninoon on the Thursday preceding the next cleAdvertising archives) space reservations week’s publication. are due by noonpage on the 13 Thursday preceding the next See for Richard Berkley’s week’s publication. obituary as provided by Louis Memo-
rial Chapel.
The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle is published by The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle is published by
Sam Kricsfeld, editor and business manager, samk@jewishkc.org Lacey Storer, assistant editor, laceys@jewishkc.org
(913) 327-8116 | kcjc.com | @kcjewishchronicle 5801 W. 115th St., Ste. 201
The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle (ISSN 0022-8524) (USPS 290-140) is published bi-weekly throuhgout the year by the Jewish Federation of Kansas City, 5801 W. 115th St., Ste. 201, Overland Park, KS 66211. Periodicals Postage paid at Kansas City, MO. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle at this address. Paid subscriptions are available annually; visit kcjc.com/subscribe for rates.
Overland Park,St., KS Ste. 66211 5801 W. 115th 201 Office hours byPark, appointment Overland KS 66211 only. Phone:by 913-327-8116 Office hours appointment only. Website: www.kcjc.com Phone: 913-327-8116
kcjc.com
community news
December 7, 2023 | Page 3
The Culture House posts billboard supporting Jewish community By The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle staff Jewish community members driving on Interstate 35 will be pleased to see a full-sized billboard from The Culture House arts organization supporting the community. The billboard reads, “Thank you to the Jewish community who add such beauty to our lives, our families, and our community,” and contains a Star of David within a heart. It is visible to drivers heading northbound on I-35 where it crosses with Shawnee Mission Parkway (near Aristocrat Motors). “The Culture House leadership took out the billboard in support of the Jewish community for many, many reasons including that it was the obvious, good and right thing to do,” said Jeremiah Enna, executive director of The Culture House. “The message communicates the truth of the contributions the Jewish community has woven into our city as well as the sincerity of our appreciation. In a world where an aggressive campaign of lies and manipulation is gathering to stereotype the Jewish people and utterly distort
A billboard from The Culture House in support of the Jewish community on the southwest corner of the intersection of Interstate 35 and Shawnee Mission Parkway.
reality, we wanted to do our part to remind people of what is indisputable. We are living in a culture that is easily confused and afraid to know anything with confidence. While some things are nuanced, this situation is clear: tragic, but clear.” The Culture House’s relationship with the Jewish community includes partnering with The Lewis and Shirley White Theatre at The J for a musical last spring, “Vilna: A Resistance Story.”
Kevin Cloud, director of the Culture House’s “New Works” program, created the musical with his wife, Allison, playwright Lisa Kenner Grissom, director David Winitsky and consultation from the Midwest Center for Holocaust Education. “As an arts organization in front of thousands of people a year and who has directly partnered with the Jewish community on inspiring projects,” Enna said, “we have also just benefited
so much from the treasured personal relationships the Jewish Community brings to our lives.” After community members shared photos of the billboard on social media, thousands of people have viewed and liked posts that acknowledge The Culture House’s message. “We have only received positive feedback,” Enna said. “We hope this will inspire others in our community, leaders in business, religion and community organizations to step up and do something in a like manner… We genuinely want to express our gratitude to the Jewish community, especially while they go through such a traumatic and overwhelming time.” Jay Lewis, president and CEO of Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City, said that “seeing the billboard meant so much to me and so many others in the Kansas City Jewish community. The war in Israel and rising antisemitism at home has made many of us feel alone, but this amazing gesture from The Culture House made us feel seen and much less alone. It was amazing and so appreciated.”
Drastic Measures to transform into month-long Hanukkah-themed bar Drastic Measures will once again transform into the “Drastic Mensches” pop-up bar, but this year, the Shawnee, Kansas-based cocktail bar will be even more ambitious with its Hanukkah celebrations. Instead of a five-day pop-up during which half of all revenue was donated to Jewish Family Services (JFS) (as the bar did in 2022), Drastic Measures will become “Drastic Mensches” for multiple weeks in December, and 100% of all sales during the nights of Hanukkah will go to JFS. According to the bar’s Instagram page, it raised $7,500 for JFS last year during the five days it was open, even
with only half of the revenue being donated. With 100% of all proceeds during Hanukkah being donated, the bar is set to exceed last year’s donation considerably. The bar will be closed from Dec. 2 to 8 during its transformation into “Drastic Mensches.” A new custom Hanukkah menu will be available — last year’s specialty cocktails included a sufganiyah-infused cognac cocktail and a clarified shakshuka Bloody Mary. Drastic Measures partner/operator Jay Sanders told The Chronicle last year that “Drastic Mensches” is intended to celebrate Hanukkah with-
“Drastic Mensches” Hanukkah pop-up bar Friday, Dec. 8 until Saturday, Dec. 30 Drastic Measures, 5817 Nieman, Shawnee, KS 66203
out appropriating it. Although the staff is not Jewish, Sanders said they want to honor their Jewish friends and guests by having Hanukkah and Jewish culture celebrated the same way Christmas is. “We are celebrating our local Jewish friends that have to tolerate so many of our local bars turning Christmas and Santa themed,” read a recent post on the Drastic Measures Instagram
account. “We just wanted to be able to create that space for their holiday to be celebrated as much as all the others during this holiday season.” Drastic Measures is located at 5817 Nieman, Shawnee, KS 66203. No reservations are accepted, and the popup will not be a ticketed event. More information about the bar is available at drasticbar.com and on its Instagram page.
Serving All Cemeteries
BEFORE YOU BUY-SHOP & COMPARE You are NOT required to purchase your memorial from your cemetery or funeral home. Our prices are, on average, 10-30% lower than cemetery or funeral home prices.
6842 Troost Avenue | Kansas City, MO | 816-333-0075 | kcmonument1888@outlook.com
December 7, 2023 | Page 4
celebrations and community news
Wedding
kcjc.com
Jewish community to celebrate Hanukkah at Kansas Capitol
Sarah Markowitz and Jack Schreiber were married on Friday, Nov. 3, at Hotel Kansas City in Kansas City, Missouri. The bride is the daughter of Dr. Joel Markowitz and Susan Krowley-Markowitz of Oakland, California. The groom is the son of Daniel and Andrea Schreiber of New York City. The couple currently reside in Kansas City, Missouri.
The annual Chabad-sponsored “Grand Community-wide Chanukah Celebration” at the Kansas State Capitol will bring Hanukkah celebrations into the central hub of Kansas’ government. The celebration will take place from 5 to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 12 (the sixth night of Hanukkah) at the state capitol (SW 8th and SW Van Buren St., Topeka, KS 66612). This event is free and open to the public, but reservations are appreciated so that enough supplies will be on hand. A reception will follow the program, which will include a candle lighting ceremony and Hanukkah foods such as latkes, donuts and gelt. Representatives of several communities from across Kansas, including Wichita, Manhattan, Topeka, Lawrence and Johnson County, are expected to participate. Kansas Governor Laura Kelly is expected to attend,
as are many other elected officials and Jewish community leaders. “Celebrating this important holiday at the state capitol is a great boost of Jewish pride for the Jews of Kansas,” said Rabbi Zalman Tiechtel, director of KU Chabad. Rabbi Tiechtel is organizing the event in partnership with the regional Chabad centers. “Especially during these challenging times for the Jewish people, we need to stand taller and prouder to express our courage and strength as an eternal people,” Rabbi Tiechtel continued. “Unlike other Jewish holidays that are celebrated in the home or synagogue, an important aspect of Hanukkah is to spread the light and share the miracle by having
Bat Mitzvah
Bar Mitzvah
Bar Mitzvah
Bat Mitzvah
Danielle Heather Freiden
Ari Berger Natenberg
Teddy Berger Natenberg
Mackenzie Sales
Danielle Heather Freiden, daughter of Jonathan Freiden and Rebecca Dragon-Freiden, will become a bat mitzvah on Saturday, Dec. 9, at The Temple, Congregation B’nai Jehudah. Danielle is a seventh grader at Leawood Middle School and participates in school musicals and various clubs. She plays the flute and is a member of the school’s jazz band. Outside of school, she participates in ice skating, dance and theater classes. Danielle is a Kesher student and enjoys spending her summers at Herzl Camp in Wisconsin. When Danielle isn’t skating or acting, she enjoys spending time with her friends, family and pets. For her mitzvah project, Danielle is making “Happy Kits” to give to children who are admitted to Children’s Mercy Hospital.
Ari Berger Natenberg, son of Reena Berger Natenberg and Todd Natenberg, will become a bar mitzvah on Saturday, Dec. 9, at The Shul — Chabad of Leawood. Ari’s grandparents are the late Anita and Ben Berger of Montreal, Canada; and Cherie Natenberg and the late T. Paul Natenberg of Highland Park, Illinois. He and his twin brother, Teddy, will have their b’nai mitzvah together. Some of Ari’s passions are sports, especially baseball and basketball. He is currently a AAA pitcher for the MacN-Seitz Baseball Club. Ari also enjoys art and playing alto saxophone in the band at Prairie Star Middle School. For his mitzvah project, Ari participated in tikkun olam, cleaning up parks in the Kansas City area with the L.E.A.D Camp.
Teddy Berger Natenberg, son of Reena Berger Natenberg and Todd Natenberg, will become a bar mitzvah on Saturday, Dec. 9, at The Shul — Chabad of Leawood. Teddy’s grandparents are the late Anita and Ben Berger of Montreal, Canada; and Cherie Natenberg and the late T. Paul Natenberg of Highland Park, Illinois. He and his twin brother, Ari, will have their b’nai mitzvah together. Some of Teddy’s passions include parkour, playing roller hockey and juggling. He also enjoys art and engineering. For his mitzvah project, Teddy participated in tikkun olam, cleaning up parks in the Kansas City area with the L.E.A.D Camp.
Mackenzie Sales, daughter of Jennifer Savage Sales and Adam Sales, will become a bat mitzvah on Saturday, Dec. 16, at The Temple, Congregation B’nai Jehudah. Mackenzie is a seventh grader at Oxford Middle School and plays viola in the school orchestra. She plays soccer and volleyball, does gymnastics, swims competitively during the summer, and has run with Girls on the Run for the past four years. She is also a seamstress and artist. Mackenzie also loves animals, is a pet sitter and loves to go to horse camp in the summer. Mackenzie attends Kesher and is a Madrichol in Training. For her mitzvah project, Mackenzie organized a drive to collect backpacks and school supplies, which she compiled and donated to KVC to support foster children in the area.
Sarah Markowitz and Jack Schreiber
Pictured is Governor Laura Kelly alongside Rabbi Zalman Tiechtel at last year’s “Chanukah at the Capitol” celebration.
large public menorah lightings. We are delighted to host this celebration at the capitol of our beloved state of Kansas.” Reservations can be made by emailing office@jewishku.com or by calling KU Chabad at (785) 832-8672.
Grand Community-wide Chanukah Celebration Tuesday, Dec. 12, 5 to 6 p.m. Kansas State Capitol, SW 8th and SW Van Buren St., Topeka, KS 66612
kcjc.com
community news
Beth Torah to host discussion on college antisemitism Congregation Beth Torah will hold a live webinar about rising antisemitism on college campuses. The event, “Shocking Trends on College Campuses: The Rise of Antisemitism and Fall of Academic Integrity,” will feature two authors and scholars on the topic, Scott Shay and Andrew Pessin, and be moderated by Jewish community member and attorney Samantha Von Ende. The event will be held in-person at Congregation Beth Torah (6100 W. 127th St., Overland Park, KS 66209) at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 14. Registration is requested by calling (913) 4982212 or signing up online at beth-torah. org/adult-education. The free event is presented by Beth Torah, Jewish Community Relations Bureau|American Jewish Committee (JCRB|AJC) and Chai Mitzvah, a national nonprofit resource center for Jewish engagement. Years after receiving undergraduate and graduate degrees from Northwestern University, Scott Shay wrote the book “Conspiracy U,” citing examples of antisemitic instruction from professors on the far right and the far left at his alma mater. Shay says that these professors, protected by tenure and inaction by administrators and trustees, have threatened the well-being of Jewish students and degraded the academic integrity of the institution. Shay will be joined by Andrew Pessin, professor of philosophy at Connecticut College and editor of the Campus Bureau for The Algemeiner. A long-time monitor of the hostility to Israel across college campuses, Pessin co-edited an anthology called “Anti-Zionism on Campus” in 2018, and this year published an anthology on antisemitism in the United States. In addition, he examined the problem in a novel called “Nevergreen,” depicting campus “cancel culture” and its impact on Jews. Informed by his own research and that of professional colleagues, he describes what is happening at Northwestern as just one example of a situation infecting campuses across the country and argues that
Authors and scholars Scott Shay (left) and Andrew Pessin will speak at a live webinar at Congregation Beth Torah.
the grave concern it causes for Jews should be shared by anyone who cares about education and the future of the United States. All four of Shay’s children graduated from Northwestern, while Pessin’s son is in the process of writing college applications. Despite their concerns (during a talk show last year, Shay cited a study which led him to state that advanced education actually instills antisemitism), both believe that college should remain a high priority depending upon the interests and aptitude of the student. In the past, the selection was determined by family resources and the prospective student’s academic interests. Now, families are urged to research the political climate of the campus, how safe their child is likely to feel and the steps that have been taken by administrators to support academic integrity. Shay and Pessin will speak with Kansas City native Samantha von Ende, whose professional endeavors around the world reflect the intersection of law, higher education and scholarship. Her nonprofit collective of consultants, AMICUS Institute for Governance, provides legal counsel and technical assistance to law reform initiatives and sustainable, community-led development projects. The focus of her civic engagement is on antisemitism and the protection of democracy. The program will be followed by a reception and a book sale.
“Shocking Trends on College Campuses” webinar Thursday, Dec. 14, 7 p.m. Congregation Beth Torah, 6100 W. 127th St., Overland Park, KS 66209
December 7, 2023 | Page 5
Sasone awards $6,000 to projects that help students with special needs Sasone awarded $6,000 in grants to community projects to help support students with diverse learning needs. Sasone, run by Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City, is the Kansas City Jewish community’s program to support access to Jewish education for students with special needs “These grants are so important to help sustain our commitment to being an open and inclusive community,” Sasone Director Lindsey Lipsky said. “Needs are constantly changing from year to year, and these microgrants allow schools and staff to be more creative in how they provide support.” Thanks to funding from the Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Kansas City, Sasone is able to fund small projects of up to $1,000 to help congregations and classrooms be
more inclusive and accessible. This year, six organizations applied and received awards. The recipients are: • Child Development Center at The J, for a new sensory-friendly space. • Congregation Beth Shalom, for equipment for a student with special needs. • Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy (HBHA), for new learning tools for lower school students. • HBHA, for a social emotional curriculum and teachers’ library. • J Camp and After-School Program at The J, for sensory equipment to help students and campers with emotion regulation. • Kansas Jewish Preschool, for a continued on page 6
B'nai B'rith Bowling The following bowlers in the Sunday Morning Kansas City B’nai B’rith Men’s Bowling League achieved the following high scores at Ward Parkway Lanes on Nov. 26 and Dec. 3.
Nov. 26 500 Series: Brian Wright 651 (192 257 202) Scott Hecht 628 (214 246 168) Michael Sokol 595 (181 202 212) Willie Jones 586 (176 225 185) Mark Newton 583 (177 193 213) Steve Baraban 567 (173 191 203) Nick R Meyers 563 (216 209 138) Stuart Pollack 541 (177 167 197) Morty Rock 538 (186 159 193) Robert May 538 (181 179 178) Bruce Singer 525 (179 186 160) Christopher Eldredge 511 (153 201 157)
170 Game: Gary Friedman 191 Kent Verden 178 Marion Potts 172 Bill Sloan 172 Michael Altman 172 Ray Kopek 171 Tom Balke 170
Dec. 3 500 Series: Willie Jones 650 (204 235 211) Scott Hecht 626 (224 187 215) Marion Potts 623 (188 202 233) Nick R Meyers 607 (185 219 203) Mark Newton 577 (170 160 247) Bruce W Parker 546 (143 226 177) Gary Friedman 538 (161 208 169) Michael Sokol 536 (202 166 168) Robert May 536 (182 181 173) John Coleman 523 (189 169 165) Miles Ross 521 (208 166 147) Tom Balke 514 (171 174 169) Jerry Shapiro 509 (163 192 154) Gary Gray 508 (169 170 169) Stuart Pollack 506 (184 126 196) Michael Altman 505 (172 182 151) Larry Katzif 500 (203 160 137)
170 Game: Bruce Silverberg 194 Scott Bronston 190 Simon Wajcman 190 Christopher Eldredge 182 Morty Rock 181 If you are interested in bowling in the ‘23-24 season for a competitive, fun, social atmosphere, please contact Tom Balke at (913) 244-7010 or tombalke@everestkc.net.
December 7, 2023 | Page 6
Sasone awards microgrants
kcjc.com
community news
Noah Unell, ‘The Menorah Man,’ raises money for Israeli causes through art show
continued from page 5
sensory center for each of five classrooms. “These microgrants will help provide much needed resources to support the academic and social emotional needs of our diverse student body at Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy,” said Wendy Snitz, director of student services at HBHA. “We have found that in J Camp and our After-School Program, an increased number of kids have sensory issues or behavior concerns,” said DD Gass, director of camps and school-age services at The J. “Having tools that will help support them is something that will really help our staff process with the children. The fidgets and other sensory items will help our children who are struggling to calm down and be able to participate with their group.” Grants from Sasone are only given for projects that help support access and directly impact students with diverse learning needs. Applications, which will be accepted on a rolling basis, can be filled at https://form. jotform.com/JFEDKC/Sasone-microgrant-application. Those with questions or needing help filling out the form can email Lipsky at lindseyl@jewishkc.org.
Noah Unell, 7, constructs unique handmade menorahs out of dominos. Pictured are examples of Unell’s domino menorahs that were on display at his “Light for Israel” art show.
Seven-year-old Noah Unell, known as “The Menorah Man” by his friends and family, held an art show to display his handmade menorahs and raise money for Israelis affected by the ongoing Israel-Hamas War. Each of Unell’s menorahs are unique and crafted out of dominos — some menorahs are made out of more than 200 individual pieces. His show, “Light for Israel,” was held at his residence on Nov. 30, and many community members attended in support. Within hours, Unell had sold 11 of his 18 handcrafted menorahs, raising more than $200. This money was generously matched by Unell’s grandmother, Barbara Karchin, and an honorary donation was made in memory
of his great-grandmother, Eleanor Feitler (z”l), who was a Holocaust survivor. Due to this, Unell is able to send $1,000 to Israel. Half of the proceeds for the show will go to the Civilian War Room, which has played an integral role in finding and recovering the Israeli hostages taken on Oct. 7, and the other half to Kibbutz Kfar Aza, where some of the most devastating humanitarian and structural damage was caused on that night. “We are so grateful to everyone who has encouraged and acknowledged Noah through this project,” said Leah Unell, Noah’s mother. “The importance of tikkun olam is one the most important values we hope Noah takes with him on his life’s journey as a Jew-
ish person.” The remaining seven menorahs will be lent to The J for its menorah display reminding people of the remaining hostages during Hanukkah. “Seeing Noah light up with every dollar raised, with every pat on the back for his hard work and dedication to making such beautiful and functional Judaica, has brought hope and joy to us all,” Leah Unell said. Those wishing to support the causes Noah Unell has chosen can visit ahimlaneshek.org to learn more about the Civilian War Room (Google Translate can translate the website to English) and jgive.com/new/en/ usd/donation-targets/110441 to help Kibbutz Kfar Aza.
Directory of Congregations CHABAD HOUSE CENTER OF KANSAS CITY 6201 Indian Creek Drive, Overland Park, KS 66207 | Lubavitch | Rabbi Mendy Wineberg | 913-649-4852 | kansasjewish.com
CHABAD ON THE PLAZA
420 Nichols Road, Floor 2, Kansas City, MO 64112 | Lubavitch | Rabbi Yitzhak Itkin | 816-200-1770 | plazachabad.com
CONGREGATION BETH ISRAEL ABRAHAM AND VOLINER 9900 Antioch Road, Overland Park, KS 66212 | Orthodox | Rabbi Mark Glass | 913-341-2444 | biav.org
CONGREGATION BETH SHALOM
KEHILATH ISRAEL SYNAGOGUE
10501 Conser, Overland Park, KS 66212 | Traditional | Rabbi Moshe Grussgott, Hazzan Aron Hayoun, Rabbi Emeritus Herbert J. Mandl, Ph.D. | 913-642-1880 | kisyn.org
TEMPLE ISRAEL OF GREATER KANSAS CITY
Meets at Rolling Hills Presbyterian Church, 9300 Nall Avenue, Overland Park, KS 66208 | Reform | Rabbi Jacques Cukierkorn | 913-940-1011 | templeisraelkc.org
THE NEW REFORM TEMPLE OF KANSAS CITY
7100 Main Street, Kansas City, MO 64114 | Reform | Rabbi Alan Londy | 816-523-7809 | thenewreformtemple.com
14200 Lamar Avenue, Overland Park, KS 66223 | Conservative | Rabbi David Glickman, Rabbi Beryl Padorr, Hazzan Tahl Ben-Yehuda | 913-647-7279 | bethshalomkc.org
THE SHUL — CHABAD OF LEAWOOD
CONGREGATION BETH TORAH
THE TEMPLE, CONGREGATION B’NAI JEHUDAH
6100 W 127th Street, Overland Park, KS 66209 | Reform | Rabbi Javier Cattapan, Founding Rabbi Mark Levin | 913-498-2212 | beth-torah.org
CONGREGATION KOL AMI
Meets at All Souls Unitarian Universalist Church, 4501 Walnut Street, Kansas City, MO 64114 | Non-Affiliated | Rabbi Douglas Alpert | 913-642-9000 | kolamikc.org
5051 W 134th Street, Leawood, KS 66209 | Lubavitch | Rabbi Mendy Wineberg, Rabbi Schneur Perman | 913-228-2770 | kansasjewish.com
12320 Nall Avenue, Overland Park, KS 66209 | Reform | Rabbi Stephanie Kramer, Rabbi Caitlin Brazner, Rabbi Rachel Rothstein | 913-663-4050 | bnaijehudah.org
TORAH LEARNING CENTER
8800 W 103rd Street, Overland Park, KS 66212 | Lubavitch | Rabbi Benzion Friedman | 913-385-5770 | torahkc.org
Outside of the Kansas City area TEMPLE ADATH JOSEPH
102 N 17th Street, St. Joseph, MO 64502 | Reform | Rabbi Linda Steigman | 816-279-3179 | templeadathjoseph@gmail.com
TEMPLE BETH SHOLOM
4200 SW Munson Avenue, Topeka, KS 66604 | Reform | Rabbi Sam Stern | 785-272-6040 | templebethsholomtopeka.org
LAWRENCE JEWISH COMMUNITY CONGREGATION
917 Highland Drive, Lawrence, KS 66044 | Non-denominational | 785-841-7636 | ljcc.shulcloud.com
MANHATTAN JEWISH CONGREGATION 1509 Wreath Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66053 | Non-denominational | 785-477-5759 | mhkjc.org
More information about each congregation can be found by contacting them or visiting their website. Additional information about the Kansas City Jewish community can be found at the Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City’s website, jewishkc.org.
kcjc.com
December 7, 2023 | Page 7
HBHA Basketball
Chiefs with ROMEOs Above and left: At RC’s Restaurant in Martin City, 111 people came for a ROMEOs (Retired Old Men’s Eating Organization) event on Nov. 17. The event featured three famed retired Kansas City Chiefs — Willie Lanier (Linebacker, No. 63, 1967 to 1977) (left), Mike Garrett (Running back, No. 21, 1966 to 1970) and Jan Stenerud (Kicker, No. 3, 1967 to 1979).
Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy held an alumni vs. varsity basketball game for both men and women’s teams. Alumni won both games.
BBYO Convention The “MARbie Fall Kenvention,” a Barbie themed convention for BBYO’s Mid America Region, brought together close to 80 teens from Kansas City, St. Louis, Omaha and Minneapolis for a weekend of programming, a Shabbat and AZA and BBG separates. Pictured are Kansas City Council teens gathered at a football game.
SevenDays seeks nominations for its 2024 Ripple of Kindness Award SevenDays is seeking nominations from the public for a recipient of its annual Ripple of Kindness Award. The honoree must be someone whose impact on the Kansas City community is apparent but with no expectation of reward or return. The deadline for nominations is midnight on Dec. 24. The nomination form is available at https://bit.ly/40XsBKm. SevenDays is a Kansas-City based nonprofit organization that promotes kindness and understanding through education and dialogue. SevenDays is marking its 10th anniversary in 2024. Past recipients of SevenDays Ripple of Kindness Award include former Kansas City Chiefs Quarterback Trent Green, former Kansas City Royals President of Baseball Operations Dayton Moore and last year’s winner, CommunityAmerica CEO Lisa Ginter. The 2024 SevenDays Ripple of Kindness Award winner will be recognized at the Kindness Breakfast on April 10, 2024.
They will receive free tickets to the Kindness Breakfast, a commemorative plaque and public relations related to their award. SevenDays was born out of hate when a white supremacist murdered Reat UnSevenDays Co-found- derwood, his er Mindy Corporon Dr. (left) with 2023 Rip- grandfather ple of Kindness hono- William Corporon ree Lisa Ginter, Com- and Terri LaManmunityAmerica CEO. no on April 13, 2014, outside of Jewish facilities. In the aftermath, two families and the Kansas City community joined to shine a light on the darkness of hate. More information is available at sevendays.org.
Hadassah Meet & Greet Mika Kislanski, Israel emissary to Greater Kansas City, recently spoke about the current crisis in Israel to Hadassah Greater Kansas City at their Year-End Meet & Greet at the home of Roberta and Sam Goller. Among the attendees were (back row, left to right) Kislanski, past president Marian Kaplan, (front row left to right) Debbie Goodbinder, current president, Hadassah Greater Kansas City, and past presidents Rita Shapiro and Shari Sokol.
Hanukkah at Brookdale Jewish Family Services Spiritual Care Volunteer Ellen Portnoy meets weekly with a group of residents at Brookdale Senior Living Community. During a recent visit, some members of the group gathered around festive Hanukkah decorations. Each year, Brookdale Activities Director Sally Sanem puts up the decorations for residents to enjoy.
December 7, 2023 | Page 8
kcjc.com
community news
Devinki meets Pope Francis as he releases Pope Pius XII wartime documents continued from page 1
Thousands of people were Devinki said there has waiting for him to begin a always been controvermass immediately aftersy around whether Pope wards, but the pope didn’t Pius XII, who was German, seem too concerned about didn’t fully denounce Nasticking to the schedule. zism because he was try“The pope said, ‘I really ing to protect the Catholic have to go,’ and then kept Church from Adolf Hitler’s talking for another 25 minwrath or because he was an utes,” Devinki said. antisemite. Devinki said the pope is a “These papers will help very gentle man who speaks answer that question, but softly, and at the end of the I think the real answer is session, he asked the group both,” Devinki said, noting to pray for him. Meeting the that though Pope Pius XII is A group of United States Holocaust Memorial Museum staff, board members and their families, including pope was a one-in-a-lifetime community member Sam Devinki, stand with Pope Francis in Vatican City to thank him for releasing some of credited with saving thou- Pope Pius XII’s wartime documents. experience. sands of Jews, many of them “It’s like meeting any dignihad been baptized and were considered There were 22 people in the group, dren of Holocaust survivors, and two tary…,” Devinki said. “When you meet Catholic. including several USHMM staff mem- of them — including Devinki — had those types of people, it’s an honor.” The group was driven into Vatican bers, nine board members and their families who were rescued by CathoOther highlights of the trip included City on the morning of their meeting spouses and partners. Mary Stahl, lics. Upon hearing this, the pope asked meeting the U.S. ambassador to the with Pope Francis. Devinki said he was Devinki’s lifelong companion, accom- them to share their stories. Devinki Holy See (the diplomatic representsurprised that members of the group panied him on the trip. shared about his grandfather’s friend ative of the Roman Catholic Church didn’t have to go through security — The pope entered the room and and business partner, a Polish Catho- and the pope), the U.S. ambassador to not even when they were escorted into shook everyone’s hands before Sara lic, who saved not only Devinki’s fami- Italy and the bishop in charge of Jewthe pope’s private residence. Bloomfield, the USHMM’s executive ly but a total of 52 Jews. He and his wife ish-Catholic relations who, Devinki “We were never asked for I.D., nev- director, presented him with a docu- are recognized by Yad Vashem as right- said, made a point of saying that the er went through the metal detector, ment thanking him for releasing the eous gentiles. Catholic Church’s attitude towards the and in the room where we met him, Pope Pius XII documents. The group was only scheduled to Jewish community has dramatically there was no visible security,” he said. Six members of the group were chil- meet with the pope for 15 minutes. changed since the 1960s.
Maddie Reiches named JFS Volunteer of the Month Jewish Family Services (JFS) honored community member Maddie Reiches as its November Volunteer of the Month. Despite her full-time job, career and other volunteer commitments, Reiches makes time to volunteer with JFS as a driver with its JET Express program. JET Express provides transportation for older adults (over 60 years old) who no longer drive. The program provides reliable, door-to-door transportation by matching riders with volunteer drivers who take them to the places they need and want to go. Reiches found out about JET Express shortly after moving to Kansas City in 2017. “One of the first events I attended when I moved to Kansas City was JFS Trivia,” Reiches said. “I was not really good at trivia, but I enjoyed the people I met.”
It wasn’t long after that Reiches looked into the JET Express program as a volunteer opportunity. One of the things that appealed to Reiches was its flexibility; volunteers can sign up for the number of rides that fit their schedule. “JET Express is a great volunteer opportunity for working professionals who have flexibility and want to still give back their time,” said Rachel Ohlhausen, JFS director of program operations. Reiches said serving as a JET Express driver is a rewarding experience. “One of the unexpected benefits of being a JET Express driver is the treats and goodies I get from the people I drive,” she said. Reiches is also active in JFS’ new affinity group, Emerging Leaders, designed for young professionals. At the urging of friend and JFS board mem-
Maddie Reiches
ber Courtney Landy, Reiches attended a happy hour hosted by the group and liked what she learned. “I enjoyed meeting (JFS) staff members and found it a great way to get involved,” she said. JFS is not the only organization that benefits from Reiches’ time and talent. She serves as a board member of Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City, as well as serving as its Young Adult Division (YAD) community connec-
tor. Reiches is also part of the Global Leadership Initiative program with the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee. Volunteering is one way Reiches fills her personal “bucket.” “I love doing meaningful work for local community members and organizations,” she said. “As someone who isn’t from Kansas City, volunteering helps me feel more connected to the community.” Reiches has advice for other young people looking to volunteer with JFS. “There are many different types of volunteer opportunities, and one should not be intimidated by the time commitment,” she said. “I found volunteering to easily fit into my schedule.” Those interested in JFS volunteer opportunities can visit jfskc.org/ volunteer, email volunteer@jfskc.org or call (913) 730-1410.
kcjc.com
community news
December 7, 2023 | Page 9
Rising antisemitism showing at KU, MU continued from page 1 an active ceasefire between Israel and Hamas at the time of the protest. Additional chants included “Two, four, six, eight, Israel is a racist state,” “KU, KU [also, Biden, Biden], don’t you lie, because of you, children die,” and other messages against support of Israel by both KU and the United States. Other videos show that protest leaders gave speeches demanding that the university stand in solidarity with its Palestinian and Muslim minority students and stop supporting any programs involved with Israel. One speaker said that KU sends students on Birthright, and that Birthright takes students on a tour of Israel without showing them the situation of Palestinians — neither statement is true. She also claimed that software developed by KU was being used by Israel to track Palestinians by facial scanning. According to a story on KU MSA’s Instagram page, Arabic phrases were also chanted, including some meaning “From the river to the sea, Palestine is Arab” and “Say it loud, say it clear, we don’t want Zionists here.” The Instagram story also instructed attendees to “not engage with people who are countering what we are walking for,” as well as to “be as loud as you can” when chanting, follow guidelines for protesting and “be respectful.” Jewish organizations KU Chabad and KU Hillel have been providing support for Jewish students in distress amid the rising antisemitism. Both helped coordinate KU’s vigil in support of Israel with Jewish fraternities and Students Supporting Israel shortly after the Oct. 7 massacre, and
An empty table that brought attention to the hostages held by Hamas (left) was destroyed (right) by a student at the University of Missouri. (@ssi_movement on Instagram)
they continue to offer support for KU’s Jewish population. “Jewish students are experiencing a mix of deep-felt support from their campus communities who recognize the pain, fear, and shock the Jewish community has been feeling for the last two months,” said Bailey Nakelsky, interim executive director at KU Hillel, “and also an uptick in incidents of hatred and antisemitism. We are working to ensure that Jewish students continue to feel safe and supported not just this week, but in the weeks to come as we continue to follow the news in Israel and observe incidents on campus.” Since the outbreak of the war and rising antisemitism, KU Chabad has been witnessing an increase in Jewish engagement, with students reaching out to connect via Shabbat dinners, Torah class and wearing tefillin. The organization has also increased its campaign to ensure that every Jewish student has a mezuzah on their dorm room doorpost.
HAVE A STORY IDEA FOR US? Email Sam Kricsfeld at samk@jewishkc.org.
“Sadly, we are seeing a significant uptick in anti-Israel and antisemitic activity across our country, and nowhere is this felt more than on college campuses,” said Rabbi Zalman Tiechtel, director of KU Chabad. “The message that we are giving our students is the importance of fighting darkness with light, fighting hate with love. Every mitzvah that we do brings more light into this world and serves as a merit for our brothers in Israel. At KU Chabad, we are present on campus 24/7 to support our students during this very vulnerable time.”
Antisemitism at MU Students Supporting Israel (SSI) shared on its Instagram page that someone at MU destroyed an empty table that brought attention to the hostages held by Hamas. The table, which was on the campus’ “Speaker’s Circle,” was upturned on Nov. 29, and all the items on the table were damaged. Daniel Swindell, an MU alumnus who often volunteers with Chabad at Mizzou, helped set the table up with Chabad and SSI, using his own dishes. He told The Chronicle that a woman approached them at the table antagonistically, arguing about Israel and the war. She then flipped the table and hurried off; Swindell called the police. “It’s very painful that a student would feel so hostile when seeing pictures of kidnapped Jewish people,” Swindell said. MU commented on the SSI Instagram post with an official message which read, “Yesterday, there was an incident of vandalism at Speakers
Circle on the MU Campus. The perpetrator was arrested for 2nd-degree property damage and is scheduled to appear in court. The individual has also been referred to the Office of Student Accountability and Support to go through our student conduct process. We support freedom of speech and freedom of expression on our campus. We do not tolerate acts of vandalism or violence.” Jeanne Snodgrass, executive director of Mizzou Hillel, told The Chronicle that, “at Mizzou Hillel, we have focused our efforts on providing a warm, welcoming, and safe environment for Jewish students… We were saddened to hear about this reaction to the display in Speaker’s Circle which was bringing attention to the plight of the hostages still held by Hamas. At the same time, we also heard of many good conversations and messages of support that others shared with the students and community members with the display, and this gives us hope that our Mizzou community can continue to provide care and support for one another.” Additionally, the Muslim Student Organization at MU has been holding marches to the Columbia, Missouri, City Hall demanding that city officials call for a ceasefire. These marches are held in partnership with Mizzou Students for Justice in Palestine (MSJP), the Islamic Center of Central Missouri, Mizzou Young Democratic Socialists of America and Mid-Missourians for Justice in Palestine. MSJP also claimed on its social media that the phrase “From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free” is not antisemitic.
December 7, 2023 | Page 10
kcjc.com
community news
Federation hosts annual meeting, celebrates 90th anniversary Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City hosted its annual meeting last Thursday. The meeting, which featured Jewish Federations of North America President Eric Fingerhut (see page 1), celebrated and honored the achievements of the Kansas City Jewish community while also addressing the ongoing crisis and war in Israel. Jewish Federation also recognized the milestone of reaching its 90th year in operation in Kansas City. Co-chaired by brothers Barry, David and Eric Kaseff, the meeting began with a pre-recorded d’var Torah by Rabbi Steve Burnstein. Rabbi Burn-
stein grew up in the Kansas City Jewish community and currently is the rabbi of Kehilat Birkat Shalom at Kibbutz Gezer, in Jewish Federation’s partnership region of Gezer in Israel. Moshit Snir, a social worker at Jewish Family Services and leader in the Kansas City Israeli community, lit a yahrzeit candle in memory of those lost since the Oct. 7 terror attack by Hamas in Israel. This year’s annual meeting was Federation President and CEO Jay Lewis’ first, and he emphasized how much the community and Federation impact means to him.
Fingerhut shares impact of Federation funds during war in Israel continued from page 1 a community, the article in the newspaper the next day usually talks about the costs of the damages, hundreds of thousands of dollars, or millions of dollars of damages were done... This is how much it will take to repair and rebuild,” he said. “But they rarely talk about the cost to the fire department to put out the fire, or to the public infrastructure, to plan and to rebuild what was destroyed. We are in worse than a five-alarm fire right now.” Four days after the attack, JFNA set a goal for the Jewish Federation system to raise $500 million for its Israel emergency campaign. In less than two months, the 145 Jewish Federations have collectively raised $668 million (including $3.2 million from the Kansas City community). Fingerhut said more than $211 million of the emergency campaign funds have already been dispersed, helping to support 65 municipalities in Israel and 388 different non-governmental organizations. Those funds have helped fund everything from helping families in Israel pay rent and buy food and clothing to providing support to the Victims of Terror Fund, which is administered by JFNA’s partner agency, the Jewish Agency for Israel.
According to Fingerhut, the number of families helped each year by the Victims of Terror Funds has averaged 200-250. Since Oct. 7, 6,000 families have received help from the fund. Locally, 10% of the money raised for Israel by the Kansas City Jewish community has been allocated to Federation’s partner communities of Ramle and the Gezer region. So far, this money has helped buy smart watches that vibrate when bomb sirens go off to alert hearing-impaired people; and to build a bomb shelter for a kindergarten class. “The fire department is every single one of you,” Fingerhut told the audience. “We were there on Oct. 7 because the fire department was ready for the fire. You don’t wait until the house is on fire. To build the fire department, you build the fire department to be ready for the fire. We were ready, because we were there.” Fingerhut closed his speech by saying that there is more work to be done. “We personally stand as Jews on the precipice of one of the greatest projects of our time…,” he said. “Just as those whose… shoulders on which we stand, [who] built the State of Israel, we will rebuild the State of Israel.”
“I love the Kansas City Jewish community. I owe everything I have…my family, my career, everything to this Jewish community and am so lucky I get to wake up every day and get to work to make this city and this Jewish community a better place to live and raise a Jewish family,” Lewis said. Lewis addressed the successes of Federation and the community over the past year, including raising more than $3.2 million for aid to Israel since Oct. 7. He also addressed Federation’s responses to the 2021 Jewish community study, which showed that nearly half of Jews in Kansas City do not feel a part of the organized Jewish community and do not feel that it is relevant to them. “Regardless of what part of town you live in; whether you grew up in Kansas City or not; who you are married to or partnered with; what your pronouns or gender identification are; whether you believe in God; whether you have been to Israel; whether you keep kosher… everyone belongs in this community,” Lewis said. “That’s it. Hard stop. We need every person and organization to spread the message that ‘You Belong in This Community.’” Other Federation initiatives, such as its “Just Because” microgrants and SeeKC, were also highlighted. Additional speakers included Greyson Rubin, chair of Federation’s Young Adult Division; and Peter Mallouk, president and CEO of Creative Planning, who spoke on philanthropy and wealth management.
Awards and elections Community Program of the Year was awarded to KC USY’s Gesher Kinnus, an annual USY convention to strengthen the local and regional connections of Jewish teens. Ben Novorr and teens at Congregation Beth Shalom planned all programming. Jewish Federation Educator of the Year Award for 2022-2023 was presented to Judy Jacks Berman, director of the Rose Family Early Childhood Education Center at Congregation Beth Shalom. The Dan Fingersh Young Leadership Award was presented by Pella Fingersh to Lindsey Fineman for continuing the legacy of Dan Fingersh (z”l) in being a community leader and changemaker. New members of the Federation board are Sarah Beren, Neil Miller and Louis Stein. Erin Berger was reelected for an additional two-year term. Officers on the board include: • Board Chair Beth Liss • Board Chair-Elect and 2024 Financial Resource Development Chair Sondra Friedman (newly elected) • Vice-Chair at Large Amanda Palan • Vice-Chair of Israel and Overseas Barry Kaseff (newly elected) • Vice-Chair of Allocations Jeremy Antes • Secretary Barb Bloch • Treasurer Michael Fineman • Immediate Past Chair Amanda Morgan All nominations and elections faced no objections.
Pictured at the annual meeting are (back row, from left) Patricia Uhlmann, Maddie Reiches, Victor Wishna, Barry Kaseff, Louis Stein, Michael Fineman and Jerry Enslein; (second row, from left) Amanda Morgan, Mollie Berenbom, Lisa Ruben, Barb Bloch, Michelle Goldsmith, Catherine Singer, Amanda Palan and Neil Miller; (front row, from left) Jay Lewis, Eric Fingerhut, Sondra Friedman and Lynn Intrater.
kcjc.com
community news
NCJW scholarship committee helps college students for 90th consecutive year In 1933, the Kansas City Section of National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) awarded the first Liberman Scholarships for high school students going to college in the fall. Since that small start 90 years ago, almost 1,000 students in the Kansas City metro area have received scholarships from hundreds of donors. Some donors provide just a few dollars each year, and others endow continuing scholarship funds that have lasted for decades and new ones that should last for decades more. In the early years of NCJW, providing scholarships to high school students entering college was a program offered by almost all the NCJW sections throughout the country. Over the years, this number has fallen. In the Kansas City area, the NCJW Section once offered three different scholarships/fellowships, including a scholarship for mothers who planned to complete their college education and a fellowship for Jewish women who wanted to complete a master’s degree. The funding for the fellowship ran out in 2008, and since no one had applied for the continuing education scholarship for many years, that money was added to the regular scholarship fund. At the Kansas City Section, the scholarship committee is still active and helping high school students afford to attend college. The scholarship is based on academic achievement and financial need. Once, students received small stipends, but now students can receive between $500 and $2,000 a year for four years of college if they maintain good grades, carry at least 12 credits each semester and still have financial need. Eligible students must attend high schools in the metro Kansas City area and can be of any religion, ethnic, gender or race. “I started volunteering on the Scholarship Committee 38 years ago,” said Ellen Portnoy, the Kansas City Section scholarship chair. “When I started, we gave out scholarships of $250 to $1,000 to about 30 students each year. Now, we provide more money to fewer students. Currently, we have 15 students who are receiving NCJW scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $1,500.” There has been a long line of devoted volunteers who have chaired the
December 7, 2023 | Page 11
NO ONE SAVES MORE LIVES IN ISRAEL IN TIMES OF CRISIS.
(From left) Bonnie Buchbinder, Joan Jacobson and Ellen Portnoy reviewing scholarship applications.
scholarship committee or served on the committee. “When I started, Betty Jo Marder was the committee chair,” Portnoy said. “I then served under Ro Jacobson, who was the one who determined that I should take over the committee about 10 years ago. I know that Serina Lorsch, Marjorie Vogel and Millie Krasne all served as committee chairs. “Thanks to the devotion of these families,” Portnoy continued, “we have continued to have income for the scholarships. Serina Lorsch’s son, Jay, has donated funds for many years; the Krasne family has an endowed fund; Ro Jacobson has an endowed fund in memory of her parents; and many others continue to donate to funds created by their families. These endowments and others will help us continue to give scholarships for many more years. However, the committee will now limit the new scholarships to just two students per year.” Today, 14 women, including Portnoy, serve on the committee. Sonny Singer, Ro Jacobson and Jane Duggan are the longest-term members. Other members are Carla Oppenheimer, Joan Jacobson, Naomi Kauffman, Bonnie Buchbinder, Lynn Murray, Berenice Haberman, Connie Simon, Laura Gilman, Amy Shapiro and Jessica Shea. Anyone interested in joining the scholarship committee or donating money to help continue NCJW’s 90-year tradition can contact the NCJW office at (913) 648-0747 or visit kansascity. section.ncjw.org/programs/ncjwscholarships.
This Chanukah, there are many ways to support Israel and its people, but none is more transformative than a gift to Magen David Adom, Israel’s emergency medical system. Your gift to MDA isn’t just changing lives — it’s literally saving them — providing critical care and hospital transport for everyone from victims of heart attacks to casualties of rocket attacks. Join the effort at afmda.org or call 866.632.2763.
December 7, 2023 | Page 12
kcjc.com
Happy Hanukkah from your friends at
kcjc.com
December 7, 2023 | Page 13
community news JFS launches end-of-year appeal
Jewish Family Services (JFS) is launching its end-of-year appeal for donations. JFS continues to provide help for those facing food insecurity, mental health issues and aging challenges. Donations can be made online at jfskc.org/ways-to-give or by mailing a check to JFS (5801 W. 115th St, Suite 103, Overland Park, KS 66211). The following is a story from JFS about the effects of its services: Talking with Marianna is like traveling back in time. Her words paint pictures as she describes fleeing from the terror of her native Odessa and becoming a refugee in a land where she didn’t speak the language or understand the culture. While others may tell their story as a tragedy, Marianna shares hers with joy, laughter, and so much love, that after an hour with her, you feel like you’re a part of her family. “My mother lived through so much – two world wars, famine, losing her husband – but she always worked to see the good in people,” Marianna said. “She taught me that you always
have to have hope.” When Marianna and her husband, mother and son first arrived in Kansas City in 1974, they were immediately put in touch with Jewish Family Services (JFS). Marianna worked with a translator who helped her connect to community resources, other Russian-speaking Jewish families, and eventually a job with JFS as what she called a “bridge” between the community and new immigrants. “Jewish Family Services was the center of the Jewish community,” she said. “It was Jewish vocational and education, and that’s what made this community. Because it connected new families and old families and all aspects of our life.” Even after she left her JFS position to teach high school orchestra, Marianna remained a part of the agency’s family. When her husband became ill, JFS was there for her. “I didn’t feel very good. My husband was so fragile that he needed to be on dialysis three times a week. I thought ‘I physically cannot survive,’” Marianna
obituaries Richard L. Berkley Beloved family man and city leader, Richard L. (Dick) Berkley passed away Wednesday, Nov. 29. He was 92. Born in Kansas City, Richard L. Berkley was the son of Walter J. and Erni Berkowitz. Dick grew up in southwest Kansas City, graduated from the Pembroke Country Day School, and later from Harvard College and Harvard Graduate Business School. He proudly served as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Navy before returning home to join the family business, Tension Corporation. He served Tension for more than 60 years as its treasurer and a member of its board. Dick’s love for Kansas City knew no bounds. He was a true champion for the city. He served on Kansas City’s City Council for 22 years, beginning in 1969 as a council member, then as mayor pro tem, and was ultimately elected mayor in ’79, ’83 and ’87, re-
tiring in 1991. Dick was Kansas City’s only Jewish mayor as well as the city’s only three-term mayor. He used his wisdom, grace and humor to guide the council to make forward-thinking decisions. Dick’s many years as the city’s leader enabled him to lay a foundation for a massive wave of improvements for the next 25 years. His leadership over the city’s half-cent sales tax for bonds provided capital improvements for police stations, the zoo expansion, Bartle Hall, the airport, water and sewer extensions, and others totaling hundreds of millions of dollars. The bonds collectively fueled over 700 capital projects which began to clear the backlog of deferred maintenance across the city. As mayor, Dick created task forces and teams to address issues concerning food and hunger, illegal drugs and AIDS. He created the KC Jazz Commission and co-originated the KC Ethics Commission. He supported the arts, education, aviation, economic development and continued
Marianna has been involved with Jewish Family Services for nearly 50 years
said. JFS was there to help provide food and meals for them during the holidays. “Not only did they bring a meal, but when I said that he cannot have salt, that he cannot have this or that, JFS accommodated every single need,” she said. “I didn’t need to cook. I could just sit with him. That was such a gift… JFS social workers are angels. They have patience. They have their ears and their hearts open.” Marianna is one of the 50 Holocaust
survivors in the Greater Kansas City area served by JFS. Through JFS’ older adult care management and programs like JET Express volunteer driver program, JFS helps survivors maintain their independence with transportation, access to health care and prescriptions, and mental health and counseling services. “We’re very lucky that we get to connect people to meaningful resources and that they let us journey alongside them,” said Laura Gilman, JFS director of social work. “Our survivors are an aging population, and we feel really grateful to be able to do the work to support them aging in place and aging in their community.” JFS supports more than 10,000 locals each year. Because of community generosity, Marianna and thousands of others can receive fresh and nutritious food from JFS’ KesherKC food pantries, have a social worker help navigate the challenges of everyday life, and find compassion from a spiritual care or counseling visit in times of crisis and grief.
December 7, 2023 | Page 14
continued more. He attended meetings of all “official” groups and rarely said “no” to an ask for his input or attendance. As the region’s best ambassador, Dick championed Kansas City locally, nationally and internationally and always did the right thing, with great personal integrity. During Dick’s many years serving the city, his dedicated and striking wife, Sandy, worked diligently at his side, championing projects such as the Kansas City Zoo, support for AIDS victims and the horse-drawn carriages on the Plaza. For almost 50 years, there was a larger-than-life picture of the couple dressed up and walking in the Plaza’s Easter Parade that greeted travelers at the Kansas City International Airport. Even after his retirement, Dick Berkley remained high-energy and deeply involved in everything Kansas City-related. Dick had a great sense of humor. He loved people and began carrying a small camera with which he was seen snapping pictures of people all around the city and everywhere he went. He would then send a copy of the photo to each person with a brief note. The Kansas City Star carried an article featuring Dick with many of his photographs, and more were exhibited at the Kansas City Library. In fact, best-selling author Harvey Mackay wrote a chapter in one of his books about Dick’s photographic exploits and how it served to draw people together. Berkley Riverfront Park is named in his honor and brought him great pride. In recent years, he loved taking family to the park to show its development. Ultimately, his remains will be placed at a memorial site within the park, which gave him great comfort knowing that he would always be a part of his beloved Kansas City. Dick was proud to be named Kansas Citian of the Year, along with dozens of other meaningful awards and accolades, including serving as president of the U.S. Conference of Mayors. But what he treasured most was the love of his wife, Sandy, their children, grandchildren and his entire family. Dick was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Eliot Berkley. He leaves his wife, Sandy; daughter, Elizabeth; son, Jon Berkley and his wife Heather; as well as his grandchildren Ashton, McKenna and Jack. A memorial service was held on Dec. 7 at the Unity Temple on the Plaza. Kindly omit flowers. The family re-
kcjc.com
obituaries quests memorial donations be made to the Richard L. Berkley Riverfront Park Memorial Fund, a charitable organization. Donations payable to KC CORE – Berkley Memorial, c/o Port KC, 110 Berkley Plaza, Kansas City, MO 64120.
Harvey S. Bodker Harvey S Bodker, beloved father, grandfather, husband and friend, passed away on Nov. 27, age 88, after a valiant fight with lung cancer. Harvey will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, humor, compassion, thoughtfulness and eternal optimism. Harvey’s love for his family was unparalleled, and he is survived by his children, Fred Bodker and his wife Cindy, and Betsy Bodker; grandchildren, Ilana, Mallory and Ellie Bodker; and partner, Sandy Moses. He was born Oct. 16, 1935, to the late Sam and Freda Bodker, in Kansas City, Missouri, and was a lifelong Kansas City resident. He graduated from Southwest High School in 1953, receiving a Bachelor of Science in business administration from the University of Kansas in 1957, and he was a proud lifelong Jayhawk. Harvey served his country in the U.S. Army as a First Lieutenant after college. He joined his father at Deluxe Cleaners, a chain which grew to 13 stores in the metro area. He married the late Beverly Bodker in 1963 and enjoyed 42 years together, raising a family, traveling to their favorite places, collecting art, attending a wide variety of performing arts events and sharing extensive community involvement. They cherished being each other’s most devoted fans, with both of them receiving numerous accolades from their nonprofit work. They were doting parents who never missed an event for their children and grandchildren. Harvey was passionate about his family and lifelong friends, philanthropy, the Jewish community, the arts, and his career in commercial real estate. He served as president of Bodker Realty for over 50 years. He was appointed to the Kansas Real Estate Commission by two different governors, and he served on the Johnson County Board of Realtors, Kansas
Association of Realtors, National Association of Realtors and Kansas City, Missouri Board. He loved his work so much that he refused to retire and continued to work at his office until his final days. Harvey was a champion of the community through his extensive involvement in countless organizations for which he was extraordinarily passionate. He was an active leader in Boy Scout Troop 61, earning his Eagle Scout rank and rising to the level of Chieftain in the tribe of Mic-O-Say of the Heart of America Council in 1997. He remained active on the troop, council, district and national levels, chairing a variety of committees and attending four national jamborees. He was president of the Kappa Upsilon chapter of Alpha Epsilon Pi Fraternity at KU and continued his involvement with his chapter by serving as president of the House Corporation for 20 years. He later served on the National Board of AEPi. He served on the Congregation Beth Shalom Board of Directors for 20 consecutive terms before becoming a Life Board member. Harvey was a founding director of the Bank of Blue Valley and served on the board for 25 years. He served as vice chairman of the Overland Park Planning Commission, first president of the Overland Park 2000 Foundation, chairman of Overland Park Civil Service Commission, board member of the Overland Park Chamber of Commerce, and first chairman of the Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead. Harvey was a member of the ROMEOs and was known for bringing a prominent and diverse array of speakers. Harvey became a board member of the Johnson County Community College Foundation in 1998 and was honored for his lifetime of community service, love of the arts and support of JCCC performing arts students with the Bodker Black Box Theatre in 2010. He has endowed scholarships at JCCC for performing arts, criminal justice and honor students. He had a profound love for music and performing arts. He enjoyed supporting the KC Symphony, Lyric Opera, KC Youth Symphony, KC Repertory Theater and KCPT. In 2013, the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum named the White House Decision Center for Harvey to recognize his support. He was an enthusiastic attendee of the “Wild About Harry” event each year, brought many guests to the museum for private tours, and loved attending speakers with book signings spon-
sored by the library. For the renovation of the library, he supported the Israel room, in which Truman’s recognition of Israel in 1948 was highlighted. Harvey never met a stranger. He shared his love of his family with everyone from the waitress at Bravo to the person next to him on the Southwest flight to Denver, Colorado. He was the person who knew everyone in the room, and if he didn’t, he would by the end of the event. Harvey leaves a beautiful legacy that will continue to be remembered by many in the community for years to come. The family would like to thank KC Hospice for providing professionalism, comfort and compassion during these last few weeks. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Beverly and Harvey Bodker Endowment Fund at Congregation Beth Shalom; Beverly’s Butterfly Garden at the Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead; any of Harvey’s favorite organizations or a charity of your choice. Funeral services were held on Nov. 29 at Louis Memorial Chapel, followed by burial in Mt. Carmel Cemetery.
Michael Lewis Coleman II Michael Lewis Coleman II was found in his home by family on Nov. 19 and pronounced dead on scene. He was born on Nov. 24, 1973, to a young Marsha and Michael Coleman. He would be the only child for two years until his sister was born. Michael was the oldest of eight kids. Michael met the love of his life in October of 1992 at a McDonald’s. Her name was Rachel Megerman. They dated for a couple years and finally got married in April of 1995 with their oldest child (Michael Lewis Coleman III) being born that same October. Michael joined the United States Air Force a month later. He completed training in Mississippi and was stationed with his family in Colorado Springs, Colorado. During his time in the Air Force, he worked on and fixed computers. He served until 1998 when he was honorably discharged for medical reasons. Afterwards, Michael moved his continued
kcjc.com
continued small family back to Kansas City and lived in a small townhouse where his second son was born in September of 2000 (Aaron Bailey Coleman). This small family unit was happy and comfortable, with Michael going back to school and getting a job as a drafter. This was a job he had for years until being 100% retired from service in 2005. In December of 2002, Michael would have his last son (Allen Bradey Coleman). Michael is survived by his wife, Rachel Coleman; sons Aaron Coleman and Allen Coleman; stepfather, Ronald Tomberlin; several siblings, nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles. He was preceded in death by his mother, Marsha Tomberlin; grandmother-in-law Bubbie; son Michael Coleman III; father-in-law, Charles Megerman; and grandmother Barbara Curtis. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to a charity of your choice. Services were held on Nov. 29 at Leavenworth National Cemetery (150 Muncie Rd., Leavenworth, KS 66048). Online condolences for the family may be left at louismemorialchapel. com.
Cissy Copilevitz Cissy Copilevitz, 80, passed away on Nov. 27. Cissy was born on May 6, 1943, in Joplin, Missouri. Her parents were Henry and Hortense Cohn. Cissy’s arrival meant her brother, J.B., now had a little sister. The family moved from Joplin to Tulsa, Oklahoma, when Cissy was 10 years old. Cissy attended the University of Oklahoma, where she met her future husband, Errol Copilevitz. Cissy and Errol have two children, Clay Howard Copilevitz of Des Plaines, Illinois and Dr. Cori Copilevitz Passer and her husband, Sam Passer, of Overland Park, Kansas. Cissy has also been blessed with two wonderful grandchildren, Harper and Murray. Cissy is survived by her husband; children; grandchildren; brother and sister-in-law, Patti Cohn; brother-inlaw and sister-in-law, Bruce and Kay Copilevitz; nephews and nieces; and so many dear friends. Cissy and Errol were married for
December 7, 2023 | Page 15
obituaries more than 58 years. Cissy was an outstanding wife, a brilliant grandmother and someone who had no difficulty attracting and keeping real friends. All who knew her will miss her dearly. A special thanks to the “Dine with Cissy” team, to-wit: DeeDee, Felis, Carla, Ginzy, Robin, Sheryl, Amy, Cori and Sam. Cissy’s family wants to thank her caregivers at Brookdale Overland Park and the great people at Kansas City Hospice and Palliative Care. Those wishing to honor Cissy should consider a donation to Kansas City Hospice and Palliative Care (kchospice.org/support). Online condolences for the family may be left at louismemorialchapel. com.
Mervyn Fidler The Fidler/Siegel family mourns the passing of Mervyn Fidler (Mendel ben Pinchas) (pictured left), who passed away on Nov. 22. He was born on Feb. 12, 1934. A native New Yorker from the Bronx, he lived the last years of his life at Shalom Park in Denver, Colorado. He is survived by his daughter Bonnie Siegel and son-in-law Matthew Siegel of Kansas City; his daughter Cheryl Ben David and son-in-law Avi Ben David of Avon, Connecticut; son Dr. Philip Fidler and daughter-inlaw Jody Fidler of Denver. He is also survived by grandchildren Paulina and Benjamin Siegel; Nathaniel Ben David; and Max, Jack and Anastasia Fidler. “The Merv,” as he was affectionately known, was a Private First Class during the Korean War. He hit a home run out of the old Polo Grounds in the Police Athletic Championship in high school, and he was a professional trumpet player and champion horseshoe thrower later in life. He was a larger-than-life character who didn’t mince words. If you fell short in competition, he’d say, “Remember, there’s always someone better than you.” He was a man who cared deeply for his family and who lived each day of his life doting on his wife, Barbara. Barbara preceded him in death, three years to the day. The family is at peace knowing he will be reunited with his beloved wife, Barbara.
The funeral was held on Nov. 26 in New Jersey.
Selma Ruth Baer Levine Selma Ruth Baer Levine died peacefully on Nov. 18 in Longmont, Colorado, at the Balfour at Longmont retirement community, from the effects of Alzheimer’s disease. She was 93 years old. Selma was born on July 7, 1930, to Anna Itzkowitz Baer and Herman Baer in New York City. She grew up in the Bronx, New York, surrounded by a large extended Jewish family and community. Selma told stories of the “Cousin’s Club,” where 30 to 40 relatives would get together for weddings, other occasions or summer outings. She was told that she learned Yiddish before English so that she could talk with her grandmother. Selma received a business degree from Long Island University in 1953. She married Arthur Levine on Jan. 24, 1953, and left New York City for Rochester, New York, where she had her first child, Marcie, the next year. The couple then moved to Binghamton, New York, and then to Detroit, Michigan, where her second child, Steven, was born. After moves to Chicago, Illinois, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the couple settled in Overland Park, Kansas. They were married for 43 years when Arthur passed away in 1996. Selma worked a variety of jobs in her career in retail. Having settled in Overland Park, she started as a salesperson in the Jones Store. She was soon promoted to buyer of the stationary department, a position she held for 18 years. She retired from full-time work in 2000 but continued to work part-time for several more years. Her faith was important to her. She always celebrated the Jewish High Holy Days. The family joined Congregation Ohev Shalom when they
moved to Overland Park. While working part-time, she joined its sisterhood and Hadassah, volunteering for the weekly bingo game and managing a Hadassah fashion show breakfast at the Jones Store. She took the opportunity to travel to visit her children and grandchildren, and also traveled to destinations including the United Arab Emirates, India, Singapore, the Caribbean, Central and South America. She had a strong group of women friends that shared a love for theater, concerts, restaurants, and a monthly dinner group which still meets every month. In 2017, Selma moved to Boulder, Colorado, to be closer to her daughter Marcie. She lived in Colorado until her recent passing. For all those who knew Selma, know that she was sassy and spicy until the end. Selma is survived by one sibling, Cecile Sandago of Lynnwood, Washington. She is also survived by her children, Marcie Levine (Brian Stern) and Steve Levine (Jill Kyte), and grandchildren, Vel Levine, Zoe Levine and Matthew Stern. She is also survived by nieces and nephews Erica Baer Kose, Dan Baer, Adam Baer, Rebeccah Baer, Lisa Sandago and Michael Sandago. She was preceded in death by her husband, Arthur Levine; her mother, Anna Baer; her father, Herman Baer; and her brother, Allan Baer. The family is grateful to staff at the Balfour at Longmont retirement community for the heartfelt care and support that they gave to Selma during her final years. Donations in Selma’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association (alz.org). Condolences and memories for the family may be sent to mlevine@surveyconnect.com and steve@jsprod.com.
Obituaries and yahrzeit information can be submitted to The Chronicle at kcjc.com, through a funeral home, or via email to samk@jewishkc. org. They are published both in print and online at no cost.
Kansas City’s Jewish Funeral Home Over 104 years Proudly Owned & Operated by the Epstein Family 6830 Troost Ave., Kansas City, MO 64131
816-361-5211 • www.louismemorialchapel.com
December 7, 2023 | Page 16
kcjc.com