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Ambulance dedication in honor of Sarah Milgrim
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Families continue Maccabi tradition
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Upcoming White Theatre season announced
kcjc.com | Volume 106, Issue 13 | June 18, 2026 | 3 Tammuz 5786
Local couple celebrates one year of Party Krashin event decoration business By Sam Kricsfeld Editor One year ago, community members Julie and Jeremy Krashin decided to transform their event decoration skills into Party Krashin. The company has now decorated nearly 70 events, including dozens of Jewish celebrations, across the Kansas City area. Party Krashin is known for its elaborate balloon decor and everything from centerpieces to photo backdrops. Its clients in the Jewish community have ranged from families celebrating newborns or b’nai mitzvah to Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy (HBHA) and The J. The business also does work for the wider Kansas City community, such as decorating the grand opening of Andretti Indoor Karting & Games in Overland Park, Kansas. The couple works as a team for
Julie and Jeremy Krashin, founders of Party Krashin. every gig. Julie Krashin is responsible for the creative work, helping clients come up with ideas on how they want their events to look. Jeremy Krashin handles the administrative side, such as contracts and finances. “I think we make this great team,” he said. “[Julie] gets to scratch her
creative itch, and I get to scratch my entrepreneurial itch.” “It’s been exciting working together,” she said. “We try to stay in our own lanes, but I think we both are really enjoying seeing the other person [grow into] our roles at Party Krashin.” Despite the volume of work, they are running Party Krashin in addition to their day jobs. Julie Krashin is the office administrator at Kansas Jewish Preschool (KJP), and Jeremy Krashin is the manager of business and strategic planning at Children’s Mercy. One of the factors that motivates them to continue this work is their dedication to the Jewish community. Though Party Krashin is not exclusively intended for Jewish celebrations, the couple is deeply tied into the community. Jeremy Krashin is an HBHA graduate, and some of their children are currently students there.
Julie Krashin setting up a balloon column for an Encore at The J event decorated by Party Krashin. Julie Krashin’s work at KJP and the family’s involvement with Chabad also See page 8
JDC president visits community to discuss impact of Kansas City funding By The Chronicle staff American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) President Annie Sandler recently visited Kansas City to speak to Jewish Federation of Kansas City donors and community leaders about JDC’s impact. She and Reut Friedman, JDC senior director of strategic partnerships, met with dozens of people to share about the effect that the Kansas City Jewish community has by giving money to JDC and supporting Jews worldwide. “It was an incredible honor to have Annie Sandler visit our community and share her passion for JDC and expertise in world Jewry and how our community’s support is making an impact in Jewish communities all over,” said Taly Friedman, Federation director of community impact and partnerships. Part of Federation’s Community
JDC President Annie Sandler (far right) standing with (from left) Jewish Federation Director of Community Impact and Partnerships Taly Friedman, Federation’s JDC Board Representative Patricia Uhlmann, JDC Senior Director of Strategic Partnerships Reut Friedman and Federation Vice Chair of Israel & Overseas Mollie Berenbom. Campaign revenue — more than $400,000 in 2026 — goes to JDC, a 112-year-old Jewish aid organization that supports Jewish communities across the world. Included in the
communities it supports are those of Bulgaria and Romania, with which Federation has special relationships. Federation designates funds for specific programs in the two countries,
and those allocations are then given to JDC to benefit the communities. Between 12% and 18% of funding for JDC’s support of the Romanian and Bulgarian Jewish populations comes from Kansas City’s Federation. “[Federation] started to invest in Bucharest and in the Romanian Jewish community when it was just getting its feet back under it, when they didn’t have the resources for a lot of different things,” Sandler said. As JDC president, Sandler has experience with Jewish communities across the world, but has a special connection with that of Romania. She was named a Grand Officer of the National Order for Merit for the country by its president, Klaus Werner Iohannis, for her contributions to develop Jewish life in Romania. “They try really hard to build a See page 3
June 18, 2026 | Page 2
community news
B’nai Jehudah to host dedication of ambulance to Magen David Adom in memory of Milgrim, Lischinsky
kcjc.com
Kemper Museum announces $1 million gift from Stanley J. Bushman Foundation
Magen David Adom ambulances at the Tel Aviv Medical Center in March 2024. (Chenspec, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons) An ambulance donated to Magen David Adom will be dedicated in honor of the late Sarah Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky at The Temple, Congregation B’nai Jehudah. The ribbon-cutting and dedication will be held after the 6 p.m. Shabbat service on Friday, July 17. The ambulance was donated by the Goldhirsch-Yellin Foundation, a Los Angeles-based foundation which supports Jewish advocacy, education, cancer research and more. Magen David Adom, the recipient of the ambulance, is Israel’s national emergency medical service. Featured at the event will be Dr.
Jordan Justice, a pediatric emergency medicine physician who has been affiliated with Magen David Adom for more than 20 years. Deborah Dolgin of American Friends of Magen David Adom, its American fundraising organization, will also participate in the dedication. A heavy oneg will follow. Sarah Milgrim, age 26, and her partner, Yaron Lischinsky, were murdered last year in Washington, D.C., while attending an American Jewish Committee event. Milgrim is originally from Prairie Village, Kansas, and graduated from the University of Kansas.
Shabbat services and ambulance dedication Friday, July 17, at 6 p.m. B’nai Jehudah, 12320 Nall Ave., Overland Park, KS 66209
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Pictured (from left) are Gary Wolf, Stacey Empson, Mary Kemper Wolf, Dr. Mary Davidson and Stanley Bushman at the 2014 National Committee weekend, celebrating the 20th Anniversary of Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art.
By Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art has announced a $1 million gift from the Stanley J. Bushman Foundation. This new gift will establish the Stanley J. Bushman Fund for Youth Education, ensuring sustained support for the museum’s education initiatives serving local youth. The fund will expand access to high-quality arts programming and help nurture the next generation of artists, thinkers and community leaders. Stanley Bushman (z”l), a dedicated
philanthropist and longtime supporter of the Kemper Museum, was in the real estate business in Kansas City with Charles Helzberg for over 60 years. Especially interested in youth development, Bushman, along with his partner, Ann Canfield, and Helzberg gave a major gift to the museum in 2018 to help launch Kemper Museum’s Teen Arts Council. “The Bushman Foundation’s gift supports Stanley’s legacy as a knowledgeable collector of contemporary continued on next page
kcjc.com
June 18, 2026 | Page 3
community news JDC president visits community to discuss impact of Kansas City funding
continued from page 1 community,” she continued. “They’re very proud of what they do, and they really grew from a small community, because it was not safe to be Jewish… Now they’re close to 10,000 and a healthy, thriving community, thanks to continued from previous page art, who advocated exposing and educating young people to that art form through the Kemper Museum, which he welcomed as an important addition to cultural life in Kansas City,” Helzberg said. “We are profoundly grateful to Stan’s foundation and to its board, led by Charley Helzberg, for stewarding this important gift, which will advance our programming and community engagement for years to come,” said Bill Gautreaux, chair of the board of trustees for the Kemper Museum. “This gift epitomizes the philanthropic leadership of our dedicated audiences supporting Kansas City’s contemporary art museum and its programs and we believe it will inspire our entire community.” Jessica May, Ph.D., executive director of the museum, said, “This gift is an essential part of our continued growth as a center for excellence in museum education and will help us further our vision to present groundbreaking exhibitions that support artists and ideas, as well as to be an inclusive center for creative expression and meaningful engagement with contemporary art.” In addition to his fondness for art and his acumen as a philanthropist and businessman, Bushman served as president of the Jewish
Kansas City and thanks to JDC.” Sandler’s affection towards Romania dates back to when her husband was on the JDC board and went with her to visit the JDC-Lauder International Jewish Youth Camp in Szarvas, Hungary, where Jewish kids from around the world came together. She
Community Foundation; leader and major supporter of Village Shalom; creator and original funder of the Bushman Community Endowment Program, creating education for non-profits in the Jewish community to raise millions of dollars for their endowment programs; was on the Board of Councilors of the nonprofit Menorah Hospital; and, as a young man, a Sunday School teacher at Congregation Beth Shalom. He served on several corporate boards, including Prom Motor Hotels. He devoted much time counseling leaders of profit and not-for-profit organizations, plus many people from varied backgrounds for whom Bushman always made time to hear their challenges and offer his advice. He often gave financial help to people, in his private and confidential style, with love and compassion, for which he consciously avoided recognition. Bushman was a lifetime student of varied interests, including art, ballet, travel, architectural design, barbeque, and, perhaps most of all, he was an exceptional and compassionate listener who loved life and enjoyed giving back to his community, a man of keen mind and strength of character. His was a life of work, generosity and passion. He passed away in 2025.
was so impressed with the camp that she took her own children the following year. Her children bonded with the Romanian campers. “That was my introduction to the Romanian community, and those [campers]... became leaders JDC Senior Director of Strategic Partnerships Reut Friedof all these differ- man and President Annie Sandler presenting to community members about JDC’s global impact. ent communities,” Sandler said. “...Some of the campers in your whole life” to a modern, clean are now older, and they’re doing things facility thanks to local and JDC fundin the Jewish community.” ing. Beyond summer camps, FederaSupporting Federation and JDC, tion also has funded medical work for Sandler said, is a way for Kansas City the Bulgarian and Romanian Jewish Jews to “water their Jewish roots” while communities. Sandler was there to educating their children and grandsee the results of an initiative to send children and joining something bigger an ophthalmologist to Romania to re- than themselves that tangibly changes move cataracts from visually impaired lives in Romania and Bulgaria. community members. While talking “You get out of this more than you to a woman who worked in the com- think you’re giving, you get so much munity, she realized that some mem- more out of those relationships that bers of the “Blind Club” that she’d vis- you create and you form with people,” ited early in her trip were able to see Reut Friedman said. “Once you visit, now. you cannot unsee it.” Local support also funds a MealsA Federation community trip in on-Wheels-style program for elderly partnership with JDC to Romania, and homebound Jews in Bucharest. Bulgaria and Athens will take The food is prepared in community place from Oct. 12 to 21. For more kitchens that were drastically up- information on the trip, those graded from what Sandler called interested can contact Taly Friedman “the nastiest place you’ve ever been at talyf@jewishkc.org.
Sam Kricsfeld
This week: Parashat Korach
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Candlelighting: 8:29 p.m. Havdalah: 9:36 p.m.
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June 18, 2026 | Page 4
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community news
MCHE to commemorate Operation Barbarossa with screening of ‘Wunderkinder’ The Midwest Center for Holocaust Education (MCHE) will hold its annual Operation Barbarossa Commemoration and screen the film “Wunderkinder.” The commemoration will take place on Monday, June 22, at 6:30 p.m. in the social hall at the Jewish Community Campus. The event is free and open to the public, but registration is required at mchekc.org/operation-barbarossa-commemoration-registration. June 22, 1941 marked the start of Operation Barbarossa, codename for the Nazi invasion of the Soviet Union, and it became a turning point in the Nazi policy of annihilation of the Jews of Europe. Before any of the killing centers became operational, thousands of Jews
buried in mass graves, many of which they all share one great love: music. remain unmarked to this day. Their world is one of curiosity, joy and “Wunderkinder,” which takes talent. But when the Nazis invade the place during the Nazi invasion, tells a Soviet Union, they and their families tale of three exceptionally musically face mortal peril. talented children who develop a deep The film will be introduced by and genuine friendship extending MCHE’s Dr. Melissa Karp. beyond their different religions and Support for this program is providnationalities. The two Jewish children, ed by the Lowenstein Family SupportLarissa and Abrascha, are both ing Foundation and the Lon and Suzy virtuosos — one on the piano and the Lowenstein Charitable Fund of the other on the violin. Hanna, a young Jewish Community Foundation, which had already been murdered by bullets German girl, is also extremely gifted. support MCHE’s efforts to educate in the fields, forests and ravines of the Living in Poltava/Ukraine in 1941, through film. former Soviet Union. Men, women Operation Barbarossa Commemoration and children were led right outside the Monday, June 22, at 6:30 p.m. towns in which they lived, murdered Jewish Community Campus, 5801 W. 115th St., Overland Park, KS 66211 before the eyes of their neighbors and
The J to host watch party for opening ceremony of 2026 Maccabiah Games, held in Israel By The J The J is hosting a Maccabiah Games opening ceremony watch party on Wednesday, July 1, from 5 to 7 p.m. in the social hall at the Jewish Community Campus. Community members of all ages are invited to attend. The opening ceremony broadcast will begin at 5:30 p.m. Not to be confused with the JCC Maccabi Games, the Maccabiah Games is often referred to as the “Jewish Olympics” and is the world’s largest Jewish sporting event, bringing together thousands of Jewish athletes from around the globe every four years in Israel. The watch party will give attendees an opportunity to experience the excitement of the Maccabiah Games while learning more about its connection to the JCC Maccabi Games, which Kansas City is preparing to host this summer. Throughout the evening, guests can enjoy sports-themed activity stations, bingo during the opening ceremony broadcast, a pre-ceremony sports quiz, prizes and a festive community atmosphere. “The Maccabiah is meaningful because it creates a unique opportunity for athletes to build friendships, strengthen their Jewish identity and experience Israel together,” said Dina, the JCC Maccabi Israeli emissary. “It
serves as a reminder that even though Jews live all over the world, we share a common history and connection that brings us together.” Registration is required for the watch party and is free to attend. Dinner is available and includes a hot dog or veggie dog, chips, salad and a drink. For more information and registration is available at visit thejkc.org/Maccabiah. Community members are encouraged to bring friends and family and join in an evening of Jewish pride, connection and celebration. The event also serves as an opportunity to highlight the values shared by both the Maccabiah Games and The JCC Maccabi Games. “As our community prepares to host the JCC Maccabi Games, we are embracing the same spirit that makes the Maccabiah so special because it brings people together through a shared sense of Jewish identity and community,” Dina said. Community members are also encouraged to register for and attend the JCC Maccabi Games opening ceremony on Monday, Aug. 3. Interested individuals must register in advance through RegPack as a spectator if they are not already registered as a host family or volunteer. More information can be found at jccmaccabikc. org.
K.I. to host Tisha B’Av screening of ‘Among Neighbors’ with MCHE, B’nai Jehudah By Kehilath Israel Synagogue Kehilath Israel Synagogue, in partnership with the Midwest Center for Holocaust Education and The Temple, Congregation B’nai Jehudah, will host a special Tisha B’Av screening of the documentary “Among Neighbors” on Thursday, July 23 at 6 p.m., open to everyone in the Jewish community. Following the screening will be a moderated panel discussion featuring Rabbi Rachel Rothstein of B’nai Jehudah, Rabbi Moshe Grussgott of Kehilath Israel, and Dr. Shelly Cline, historian and director of education at the Midwest Center for Holocaust Education. Combining magical realism with traditional documentary techniques, “Among Neighbors” examines the mystery of a small, rural town where people of two different faiths lived side by side for centuries until the killing began. The film reveals both love and betrayal as it zeroes in on a crime committed among neighbors: the murder of Holocaust survivors in Poland, six months after the end of World War II. The chilling facts revealed in this documentary led the office of Poland’s nationalist president to call for a ban on the film. “‘Among Neighbors’ offers a nuanced exploration of complex relationships between victims, perpetrators and bystanders,” Cline said. “It compels us to look beyond simple narratives and grapple with difficult
questions that continue to resonate decades after the Holocaust.” Held on Tisha B’Av, the Jewish day of mourning that commemorates the destruction of the First and Second Temples and tragedies throughout Jewish history, this program invites participants to reflect on the enduring consequences of hatred, indifference and communal brokenness. “This movie hit me very personally,” Rabbi Grussgott said, “since my mother’s parents (z”l) were Polish Shoah survivors. Much of what the film shows is accurate based on what I heard from my grandmother. Its somber and serious themes are exactly what one should spend their Tisha B’Av, the saddest day of the year, reflecting upon.” This event is open to the entire Jewish community and is free of charge. Registration is required for security and available online at kisyn. eventsmart.com/tisha-bav.
Maccabiah Games opening ceremony watch party
Tisha B’Av screening of “Among Neighbors”
Wednesday, July 1, from 5 to 7 p.m.
Thursday, July 23, at 6 p.m.
Jewish Community Campus, 5801 W. 115th St., Overland Park, KS 66211
Kehilath Israel Synagogue, 10501 Conser, Overland Park, KS 66212
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community news
June 18, 2026 | Page 5
Host families continue Maccabi Games tradition 29 years on By The J This summer, more than 1,000 Jewish teen athletes, coaches and delegation heads will travel to Kansas City for the 2026 JCC Maccabi Games. Behind the scenes, local host families will play a vital role in making the week possible by opening their homes to visiting athletes. Among those volunteers are Cindy and Fred Bodker and Harriet and Larry Almaleh, two Kansas City couples who also welcomed athletes into their homes when the Games were last held in the city in 1997. For both families, the experience nearly three decades ago left a lasting impression. The Bodkers had recently moved to Kansas City when they volunteered in 1997. They viewed hosting as an opportunity to become more involved in the local Jewish community and build new connections. The Almalehs were also eager to get involved when the Games came to Kansas City in 1997. With their two children not yet old enough to participate, opening their home to visiting athletes offered a meaningful way to take part in the event and support the Maccabi experience. As Kansas City prepares to welcome the Games again in 2026, both couples were eager to volunteer once more. The Bodkers look forward to providing athletes with a home away from home, while the Almalehs are excited to help create lasting memories for another generation of Jewish teens. For Cindy Bodker, the connection to Maccabi began even earlier. Growing up in Memphis, Tennessee, her family
hosted an athlete from communities across Mexico during the first the world and rely on North American JCC local families for transMaccabi Games in 1982. portation, meals and a When Kansas City hosted welcoming place to stay the Games in 1997, she and throughout the week. her husband welcomed While the compeher cousin from Omaha, tition takes place on Nebraska, and one of his courts, fields and venues basketball teammates into throughout the metro their home. area, much of the expeInspired by the meanrience happens at the ingful connections and dinner table, during car lasting memories that rides and in conversa1997 and 2026 Maccabi Games host families Cindy and Fred come from hosting, Bodtions with host families. Bodker and Harriet and Larry Almaleh. ker now serves as host Beyond providing a family co-chair for the upcoming and sharing their Maccabi journey. place to stay, host families help creGames in Kansas City, helping recruit “We really got to see the diversity of ate the welcoming atmosphere that families to ensure visiting athletes ex- all the athletes who attended the Games defines the JCC Maccabi experience. perience the same sense of belonging in 1997. It definitely showcased Kansas For many athletes, the relationships that made such a lasting impact on her City, and we loved the Jewish compo- formed during the week become some own family. nent of what the Maccabi Games had of their strongest memories from the “It’s both enjoyable and exciting to and still have to this day. We are privi- Games, with many staying connected stay in touch with Cindy’s cousin, who leged to be a part of that, and it is one of to their host families long after the was one of the athletes we hosted in our fondest memories as a Kansas City event concludes. 1997,” Fred Bodker said. “It’s been a family,” Harriet Almaleh said. As Kansas City prepares to welcome long time, but we still remember how One of the athletes they hosted thousands of athletes, coaches and much fun it was.” from Las Vegas, Nevada, met a Kansas visitors this summer, families like the For the Bodkers, the impact of the City athlete during the Games. Years Bodkers and Almalehs serve as a reGames extends beyond sports. Cin- later, the two married, and the Almale- minder that the spirit of the JCC Macdy Bodker said the event gives people hs were invited to attend the wedding. cabi Games extends far beyond athletic from across the community an opporHosting also had a lasting impact competition. Through opening their tunity to come together, celebrate Jew- on their children. homes, sharing meals and creating ish identity and create friendships that “Our kids were too young to partic- connections, host families help turn a can last a lifetime. ipate in the JCC Maccabi Games at the weeklong event into a lifelong memory. Hosting two teenage swimmers time, so it was special to watch them More information about the 2026 during the 1997 Games gave the Al- follow the athletes we hosted and look JCC Maccabi Games is available at malehs a firsthand look at the impact up to them during the games,” Larry jcckcmaccabi.org. Those interested in host families can have on an athlete’s Almaleh said. volunteering or serving as a host family Maccabi experience. Nearly three deHost families remain a cornerstone can email jccmaccabivolunteers@ cades later, they still remember the joy of the JCC Maccabi Games experience. thejkc.org or jccmaccabihousing@ of welcoming athletes into their home Athletes travel to Kansas City from thejkc.org.
White Theatre brings Disney’s ‘Frozen’ to stage By The J The Lewis & Shirley White Theatre at The J and The Coterie Theatre will present Disney’s “Frozen,” the Broadway musical based on the Academy Award-winning animated film, from July 8 to 26. It will be the final production of The White Theatre’s 21st season. “Disney’s ‘Frozen’ was an exciting choice for the next co-production between The Coterie Theatre and The White Theatre, bringing together two organizations dedicated to creating memorable theatrical experiences for families,” said director Kacy Lane. “Having worked with Disney Theatrical Group while the show was on Broadway, I saw firsthand the joy it brought to audiences and was excited to collaborate with artists from both theater communities to bring that experience to Kansas City.” Tickets are available now at
thewhitetheatre.org or by calling the box office at (913) 327-8054. Performance dates and times include: • Tuesdays: July 14 and 21 at 6 p.m. • Wednesdays: July 8, 15 and 22 at 7:30 p.m. • Thursdays: July 9, 16 and 23 at 7:30 p.m. • Saturdays: July 11, 18 and 25 at 7:30 p.m. • Sundays: July 12, 19 and 26 at 2 p.m. Set in the kingdom of Arendelle, Disney’s “Frozen” follows sisters Anna and Elsa as they navigate family, identity and the power of love. When Elsa’s hidden magical abilities are revealed, Anna sets off on an epic journey to bring her sister home. Full of magic, humor and music, Disney's “Frozen” follows Anna and Elsa as they discover that the greatest power of all is the love they share as sisters. “For me, Elsa’s journey is about learning that strength is not found in concealing her true self, but in
vulnerability,” said MaryAnn Traxler, who plays Elsa. “Ultimately, Elsa’s motivation has always been the deep and real love she has for Anna. I hope that shows in my portrayal of her as she navigates the sacrifices that true love demands of us.” Along the way, audiences will encounter characters including Olaf, Kristoff and Sven, whose humor, heart and friendship help bring the story to life. “Olaf, although very naive to the world around him, is very wise when
it comes to love,” said Travis Mendoza-Holt, who portrays Olaf. “His childlike innocence reminds Elsa and Anna what their relationship once was before fear drove them apart. He’s also unabashedly himself, which I deeply admire. I think people of all ages can connect with that feeling of authenticity and being true to yourself.” Disney’s “Frozen” concludes The White Theatre’s 2025–2026 season. More information about 2026-2027 season tickets and the full season lineup can be found at TheWhiteTheatre.org.
June 18, 2026 | Page 6
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Parve Sponge Jelly Roll By Mrs. Nathan Peltzman, 1973
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O Y D O E D C R P R A L M G X D B U U G K C V F S Y MWG E J R X U Q C O Y Q T I M Q L V M K U Y Y Z F H R T N X A P J Q U R F I Y Y N W E X H J WO J B T H Z Z Z C K A E I C WG I H C G Z I Y A B Q T L O E E K O M Q O S V E A N Y D U L T P X S G X C U W T D Q Z R H D WM M E N E X G A L H C WM S U U P P W I G K X Q V F S S Z S P H Z K M N R Z E L N Y QW V R A Y O U O P N F R B X S C I H U E I A T E J Y G U X K J G X E J N Y N E C A L P S A S E R E T B G T B A J P D E V H V R U I Z J Z D M D A R C A F S W L L L H L D E B X GW H W T X O R T L S Q E M N M B T J K Z E L Q A F L A U T B F K G M A J T A K D R V R C G O P O Y O F Z Q I C O E S M Y H V N O S B A C T Q F E P K B T N I R S K K V B M G T H C T N V E I U D X P E S N K K L I P V G Z T E D R A K A WM V W N I A W A J Z L Z R R W A D F N P J N K D J F C A N S A W K Z L K P I J T H F T I E L X O V D G R E W H P C C A S N X R C Z C J U J S J R T R D P K I B Q E S W I M O A I L H F H T W X F O U N A U R I E V N U X M E L R T Y G T M Q E P O F X I J Y I E T K R F B E P M O S V A H M I I R H E U T T U G Z S X N X H G G U L H J R P D I C H C T U V K U B M A N N I E S A N D L E R C G I I R L B I T K S C M S J U P O X W D Z S M A G E N D A V I D A D O M T S A X H A Q O F T F R B A U F R T P T G H G O B R W F S K V O N C U E B N C B L V S T M B O J V W C B J E D F F W R R I V Z E U E L I T G B E F I Q Y S K F A R O P E X B Q M R R T O Y J Y D L A G V L C E O G X A T L Y W E B O G M O Q G C F S D F B S E U M A W X G N L I C Z I Y M C S O U Z M C T I V L L J J P F H L L M F D J O J Y O Q L F T S Z V Q R U H Z N Q N K S S A R T X A E J T N O S Q A J W H D H Z A O L H Z V C B O R N D A O U J E S G F P T U Z Y U W K A X Y C K E M P E R M U S E U M Z O R H O S I X A O P M T J S G B K B J G M U O Y G Q N B P L E Y U T C K Q L L T E Q T Q F I P M H C A X V L T L O C R J Y N P J Y S E X D
PARTYKRASHIN ANNIESANDLER MAGENDAVIDADOM • “Among Neighbors” (pg. 4) • Teresa’s Place (pg. 9) STANLEYJBUSHMANFOUNDATION WUNDERKINDER MACCABIAHGAMES • Maccabiah Games (pg. 4) Ingredients • Annie Sandler (pg. 1) • TheDISNEYSFROZEN Almalehs (pg. 5) MACCABIGAMES AMONGNEIGHBORS • Magen David Adom (pg. 2) THEALMALEHS • 7 egg yolks • 1 ½ cups cake flour THEBODKERS • Disney’s “Frozen” (pg. 5) • TheTHEWHITETHEATRE Bodkers (pg. 5) • Party Krashin (pg. 1) TERESASPLACE YOUTHEDUCATIONDIRECTOR PERSIANMALBUSH • ½ cup water • 2 tsp. baking powder • Elana Goldberg (pg. 10) • The White Theatre (pg. 15) ELANAGOLDBERG KCSUPERSTAR KEMPERMUSEUM • Persian malbush (pg. 9) • 1 tbsp. lemon juice • ¼ tsp. salt • 1 tsp. grated lemon rind • 1 cup sugar
• Powdered sugar • Fruit preserves or jelly
• KC SuperStar (pg. 10) • Kemper Museum (pg. 2) • Maccabi Games (pg. 5)
A Jewish Cryptogram
Instructions 1. Set oven to 350 degrees 2. Beat yolks until thick and lemon-colored, about 3 minutes 3. Add water, beat 2 minutes longer 4. Add flavoring, beat sugar gradually into yolks 5. Fold the sifted dry ingredients gradually into egg and sugar mixture 6. Pour into 11”x14” baking pan lined with brown paper and greased with Crisco 7. Bake for 12 minutes 8. Turn out on to a damp towel sprinkled with powdered sugar 9. Using a very sharp knife, quickly remove paper and cut off crust strips from sides and ends of cake 10. Roll the cake while still hot 11. Cool on rack, then unroll and spread with preserves and jelly, then reroll 12. Dust with powdered sugar before serving
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• “Wunderkinder” (pg. 4) • Youth education director (pg. 9)
• Stanley J. Bushman Foundation (pg. 2)
Decode the passage from this week’s Torah reading
T K
G
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T Y
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Answer for the June 4 issue: “Whether it was two days or a month or a year, however long the cloud lingered over the tabernacle, the Israelites remained encamped and did not set out.”
kcjc.com
JCF Site Visit
June 18, 2026 | Page 7
Jewish Community Foundation recently hosted a site visit to SAVE, Inc., a nonprofit providing housing solutions for socially and medically disadvantaged people. Pictured (from left) are Taylor Smith, Frank Lipsman, Suzanne Dicken, Ann Zimmerman, Linda Lyon, Beatrice Fine, Nick Christianson, Martha Gershun, Rabbi Doug Alpert, Kara Bush and Ilana Silverstein.
Junior Maccabi Gardening Girl Scouts The J, PJ Our Way and BBYO Connect hosted Junior Maccabi Sports Day on May 31. Twenty-four kids participated in a variety of sports, including flag football, Girl Scout Troop 4062 harvested the first 2026 crop at Mitzvah Garden KC, which soccer and basketball. Pictured is Director of Sports and Rec Stephan McMillan was 53 pounds of canasta lettuce. leading a huddle of junior athletes.
Federation Golf Tournament Jewish Federation hosted its Par 3 Golf Tournament on June 5 at Oakwood Country Club. Pictured are (from left) Susie Azorsky, Valerie Gasser, Jill Shapiro, Sharon Mallin and Kathy Shapiro; Alex Worth, Eric Kaseff, Barry Kaseff, Zack Kaseff and David Kaseff; and Steve Ruben, Mike Beckner, Jeremy Antes and Paul Himmelstein.
K.I. Summer Social Members and guests of Kehilath Israel Synagogue came together for the shul’s first summer social of the season. Pictured are (back row, from left) J Purkaple, Moshe Messer, Ben Gaeddert, Jude Betzer, Abe Moore, Megan Moore, (second row) Henri Gaeddert, Sara Dear, Crosby Tankard, Goldie Grussgott, Becca Grussgott, Wes Tankard, Jacob Hjelmaas, Frank Tankard, (third row) Nitzan Messer, Neta Messer, Maya Messer, Eden Messer, Amichai Eisenstadt, Manny Grussgott, Ezra Grussgott, Jacob Tankard, Tracy Tankard, Hannah Katz, Rivkah Katz Hjelmaas, Jonah Tankard, (front) PJ Tankard and Miriam Katz Hjelmaas.
June 18, 2026 | Page 8
celebrations and community news
Bat Mitzvah
kcjc.com
Local couple celebrates one year of Party Krashin event decoration business continued from page 1
Kaya Rose Stein Kaya Rose Stein, daughter of Adam Stein and Paula Mahayosnand of Jersey City, New Jersey, will become a bat mitzvah on Saturday, June 27. The bat mitzvah will be held in The Sky Room at Saint Peter’s University in Jersey City. Kaya is the granddaughter of Herb and Alice Stein of Overland Park, Kansas, and Inpol and the late Zita Mahayosnand of Meriden, Connecticut. She has a 16-year-old sister, Isabella. Among Kaya’s hobbies and activities are acting, playing soccer, baking, cooking and creating art. Kaya is named for her great-grandmother Rose Katzeff, who was a longtime member of Congregation Beth Shalom and its Sisterhood. Her grandparents Herb and Alice Stein are also longtime members of Congregation Beth Shalom. Kaya will fulfill a Stein family tradition of reading Parashat Bechukotai, the same parsha her grandfather, father, sister, uncle, aunt and first cousins all read. For her mitzvah project, Kaya spent time as the library assistant at her school, organizing books so that they were easily accessible to all students.
strengthen their connections. “We really want to support the Jewish community and make sure that they know that they have a place to get decor and event design,” Jeremy Krashin said. Party Krashin may have only started a year ago, but Julie and Jeremy Krashin’s relationship started back in high school, where they met through BBYO. The two reconnected as young adults while living in Chicago, later moving back to Kansas City and starting a family. “[Julie] has always been crafty,” Jeremy Krashin said, and was decorating parties years before starting the business. She would help family and friends at their birthday parties and b’nai mitzvah, and as she gained experience and exposure, people began requesting her services. Together they realized that they should make it a true business. “We did some research, and we started packaging up what Party Krashin would be, thinking through how we deliver what Julie started organically into something that is
A hanukkiah designed and created by Party Krashin for the 2025 Hanukkah celebration at Leawood City Hall. structured and something that continues to thrive on creativity,” Jeremy Krashin said. They consider their “pilot” event a Sweet 16 party in February 2025, with their first event using the Party Krashin name occurring in May 2025. “It’s just been growing from there,” Julie Krashin said. “We’ve obviously had to tweak [things], but the business has continued to grow, not just in the number of events we’ve done or our reach, but also in our production and how we operate as a business.” During a gig, the Krashins do not work alone. They get help from contract workers and their own four children, ranging in age from 3 to 12. “[After the event], we stay even later and break it all down with our kids,” Julie Krashin said. “Oftentimes, they love that part because they love getting to pop all the balloons, and they take
on a little bit of a leadership role with the other kids.” “One time, [our daughter] Goldie came with me and just followed me around with the phone, taking pictures and videoing so that we have content to share,” she continued. “... [They’re like] fun little social media managers.” As the business continues to grow, the couple occasionally has periods of intense work on top of their day jobs. Party Krashin has managed multiple events in a single day, and there was a period where the couple worked six b’nai mitzvah in six weeks. “When we’re on event [schedules] like that, we’re locked in,” Jeremy Krashin said. “It feels like we’re preparing for a big game, and we get in game mode. We have our staff meeting, and it’s really exciting for us.” For the future, Party Krashin has goals of potentially getting a wareJulie Krashin setting up a large balloon column for an house space (instead of using the famevent that Party Krashin decorated. ily’s basement for supplies) and some dedicated support staff for administrative work and events. “Julie and I both work all day, and we’re both doing administrative things at night, and Julie’s executing on the event visions oftentimes late in the evening,” Jeremy Krashin said. “She’s stayed up until 2 or 3 a.m. sometimes working in the basement, so if we can offload some of the administrative tasks, that’d probably [put us in a] pretty good place.” Even with the workload, the Krashins continue to enjoy Party Krashin and celebrate its milestones, including its first anniversary and sponsoring its first program, a Shavuot event at Chabad of Leawood. “We love being a part of everyone’s celebrations, and it’s great to bring joy to so many families,” Jeremy Krashin said. “There are so many chances to celebrate, and we really like being a part of those celebrations. It allows us to give back to the community.” More information about Party Krashin is available at partykrashin. com.
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community news
June 18, 2026 | Page 9
JFS partners with LGBTQ+ youth shelter to provide food them time to locate other housing options and avoid the risks of becoming unhoused. Shelter staff and volJewish Family Services of unteers work together to preGreater Kansas City (JFS) has pare and cook hot meals for stepped up to partner with breakfast and dinner to eat Kansas City’s only emergency alongside shelter residents overnight shelter for LGBTQ+ at a large, communal kitchen youth, providing food, cleantable. Non-perishable items ing supplies and hygiene and packaged leftovers are items for the shelter’s clialso provided to clients to eat ents through the agency’s for lunch during the hours Brookside Food Pantry. they spend away from TereTeresa’s Place, operated sa’s Place during the day. by SAVE, Inc., one of Jackson Teresa’s Place receives County’s largest housing nonprofits, reopened in the sum- Mary Brewster, assistant director of program and services food donations from other mer of 2025 with a new name at SAVE, Inc., and Martha Gershun, Jewish community area nonprofits and commuafter shutting its doors in member and JFS volunteer, prepare food deliveries for Te- nity volunteers who drop off resa’s Place, an LGBTQ+ youth shelter. food for the agency’s kitchen 2025 due to a lack of funding. A generous gift from a family founda- JFS. “Along with the individual clients as well as prepared meals to serve imtion, along with funding from Kansas we serve on a monthly basis, we val- mediately or freeze for later. Despite City’s low barrier shelter initiative, al- ue the agency partnerships that let us this, the shelter has struggled to access lowed the Midtown shelter, formerly reach those in need in other parts of important food items such as meat, eggs, dairy and gluten-free items, as known as Pride Haven, to resume op- our community.” Teresa’s Place offers LGBTQ+, un- well as hygiene and cleaning supplies. erations. “This partnership with JFS allows “We are thrilled to be able to help housed 18-24-year-olds a safe place to Teresa’s Place with the food they need sleep, eat and access housing, job and us to prepare more nutritious, diverse to provide their young clients with de- educational resources, as well as sup- meals for our vulnerable clients,” said licious, nutritious meals,” said Maggie port from trained staff. Youth can stay Mary Brewster, assistant director of Haghirian, chief program officer at at the shelter for up to 90 days, giving program and services at SAVE, Inc.
By Jewish Family Services
LJCC searching for new youth education director
Persian Malbush
By the Lawrence Jewish Community Congregation The Lawrence Jewish Community Congregation (LJCC) is searching for a new youth education director to oversee its religious school and other youth educational programs. The LJCC is an unaffiliated, lay-led community located near the University of Kansas with strong ties with KU’s Jewish Studies Program and with other local civic and religious organizations. The LJCC’s mission is to provide an inclusive home for the local Jewish community as well as their Jewish-adjacent loved ones. In the recent past, the LJCC’s religious school has taken this spirit of inclusivity as its basis, helping children to cultivate positive Jewish identities via an artsbased curriculum and community engagement. The LJCC is seeking applicants with backgrounds in Jewish education; experience supervising educators; fluency with Jewish prayer, practice, history and culture; and functional Hebrew literacy. The LJCC hopes to find an applicant who has a
“We are very grateful for these generous donations of the food these youth need the most.” Each Friday, a rotating team of volunteers, organized by Jewish community member Martha Gershun, pick up food and supplies put together by JFS Food Pantry staff and deliver the boxes to Teresa’s Place. “Teresa’s Place is doing vital work to protect the most vulnerable youth in our metro,” said Angela DeWilde, chief executive officer of JFS. “Helping provide much needed food and supplies is part of our commitment to provide essential human services for people of all faiths, ages, cultures and identities who are facing challenges in everyday life or times of crisis.” Donations can be made to the JFS Food Pantry by dropping off food and household items at one of its two locations or in the orange JFS barrels at The J and most synagogues, or by purchasing items from their Amazon Wish List. Financial donations can be made through the JFS website at jfskc. org/ways-to-give. Donations can be made to support Teresa’s Place at saveinckc.org/ teresasplace.
By Ellie Holsten
passion for experiential, inclusive, community-based learning, excels as a communicator across all settings and can provide steady yet creative leadership to their youth educational program. The position, the LJCC said, is best suited to a self-directed and enterprising administrator/educator excited to join in collaborative partnership with a diverse, intellectually and socially active community. The position is a part-time, ongoing nine-month position (mid-August to mid-May) with a salary of $13,500. Those interested should send a cover letter and resume to Dr. Lara Giordano, executive director of the LJCC, at lgiordanoljcc@gmail.com. Applications will be considered on an ongoing basis, with the review of applications to begin on June 22.
One method for protecting the Torah, commonly employed in Sephardic communities, is to store it in a hard-sided case called a tik. In Afghan and Eastern Persian Jewish communities, that case is often covered with a textile cover like this one, called a malbush, from the Hebrew word for garment. This malbush was made in Isfahan, Persia (now Iran), in 1931. As is common for a malbush, this one is embroidered with a commemorative inscription. It reads, “Dedicated to the Lord by the honorable and respected Mr. Su Kohanaka for the soul of his mother Elviv Kohavaka in the year 5691 of creation.” While other Jewish communities also use hard-sided Torah tiks, the custom of using a circular, fringed textile cover is unique to the Jews of Afghanistan and Eastern Persia.
This region is home to other traditions only found within it, including providing Elijah with a walking stick instead of a chair at a circumcision. Scholarship on the Jews of these areas is limited, in part due their immigration and assimilation into other communities. Today, there are fewer than 10,000 Jews in Iran and none in Afghanistan. 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.
June 18, 2026 | Page 10
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community news
HBHA alumna Elana Goldberg teaches Tanakh in Hebrew in New York By the Jewish Theological Seminary Like a fair number of graduates with an MA from the Jewish Theological Seminary’s William Davidson School in New York City, Elana Goldberg teaches Tanakh, in her case at the middle school of the Leffell School in Hartsdale, New York. What’s somewhat unusual about Goldberg, who grew up in Kansas City with English as her first language, is that she convinced the school to let her teach in Hebrew. Goldberg had developed a deep love for Hebrew early on at Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy (HBHA) and then as an undergraduate at Boston University (BU), where she minored in Hebrew language. She took advanced courses at BU in Israeli music and Israeli media, all taught in Hebrew, and she gained fluency through immersive time in Israel, including a semester during her junior year at the University of Haifa. While living in Haifa, Goldberg switched her phone’s language to Hebrew and has not changed it back since. “All my apps are in Hebrew, and as a result, I have learned a lot of technical words,” she joked. After graduating from BU in 2014, Goldberg staffed United Synagogue’s Nativ gap year program in Israel and found herself for the first time in situations where she “had” to use her Hebrew. During her semester abroad, she had strengthened the language skills she learned in the United States, and as a counselor on Nativ, she negotiated day-to-day living in Hebrew. Goldberg’s decision to attend Davidson stemmed from her experiences teaching at Herzl Camp in Wisconsin, where she served as assistant rosh chinuch (head of education) and discovered she really liked education. “I was not sure I would pursue a career in day school education,” she said (her mom has taught middle school at HBHA for many years), “but I decided that even if I continued in camping or campus work, having day school credentials would be a bonus.” At Davidson, Goldberg’s text-based classes — “Bialik” with Dr. Alan Mintz (z”l), “Shir HaShirim” with Dr. Benjamin Sommer, “Kohelet” with Dr. Stephen Garfinkel — deepened her own learning and solidified her commitment to Hebrew. Being a student in Mintz’s class, which was taught in his American-accented Hebrew, gave her a confidence boost for her own teaching. “I love the challenge of unpacking
a Hebrew text,” Goldberg said. “You have to use your brain on multiple levels — decoding, identifying word roots, discovering allusions to other texts, recognizing how grammar can influence meaning.” For her practicum at Davidson, Goldberg was placed at the Luria School in Brooklyn. She loved the school setting and the intellectual process of teaching. She greatly enjoyed teaching text in the original language, which is rarely possible at the elementary level. Luria did not have an opening in their middle school, so when it came time for a permanent position, Goldberg expanded her search and was hired by Leffell. “When I came to Leffell directly after Davidson, I knew that the school had a great reputation for Ivrit b’Ivrit, for teaching in Hebrew,” she said. “I did not want to teach in Hebrew right away, though when they asked me in my interview about it, I realized that it was something I might actually be able to do.” After her first year at Leffell, Goldberg felt that her skills were up for the challenge, and she was excited about the prospect of teaching a classroom of motivated students who chose to study in an immersive setting. She conducted a model lesson in Hebrew in front of the school’s administration, and she was assigned a 6th grade Tanakh class. Goldberg believes it can be instructive for students to hear Hebrew spoken by nonnative teachers. Her first Hebrew teacher at HBHA was actually from South Africa. “As the language of the Jewish people, Hebrew is spoken in all sorts of accents, and when students hear me speak, they get that you can be conversant in Hebrew even without an Israeli accent,” she said. “That removes one barrier to learning.” When Goldberg is teaching in Hebrew, she knows that her students are choosing to work hard. “In middle school, you need to let them know that you are also choosing to be there, that this is not something you are doing against your will,” she said. “It seems silly, but kids are surprised to find that teachers actually like what they are doing.” Goldberg’s approach to teaching is all about content and meaning, and Hebrew is a means to that end. She knows that a lot of grammar comes up in text-based courses, and she works in close coordination with her fellow Judaic studies faculty to meet students at their levels. In 2018-2019, she piloted a course for students who
Elana Goldberg struggle to learn Tanakh in Hebrew. Goldberg also collaborates with Leffell’s all-Israeli Hebrew faculty in areas of cross-curricular learning. At the same time, as a non-native Hebrew speaker, Goldberg can find herself uniquely qualified to address some cultural components inherent in learning a foreign language. Before the school’s 8th-graders head to Israel, for example, she helps prepare them for conversations they might encounter.
One of Goldberg’s favorite cultural conventions she likes to share is the use of “titchadesh” when buying new clothing in a store. “Kids usually recognize the root of ‘chet-dalet-shin,’ meaning ‘new,’ and once they understand the grammar of the phrase, they can smile knowing that the salesperson is wishing them a kind of self-renewal alongside their new purchase,” she said. Teaching in Hebrew, for Goldberg, is an act of humility combined with confidence. “Speaking in a second language means knowing you might not be perfect,” she said. “As a teacher, though, I have mastery of the content, and I know what it will take for my students to gain understanding.” This article originally ran in the Jewish Theological Seminary’s e-journal Gleanings: Portraits Jewish Educational Leadership from the William Davidson School.
2026 KC SuperStar finalists named
The 10 finalists of 2026 KC SuperStar.
By The J Ten high school vocalists from the Kansas City area have been selected as finalists for KC SuperStar, the region’s premier high school singing competition and the largest annual fundraiser for The J. The top 10 finalists earned their spots during a live semifinal event held before a full audience at The Lewis & Shirley White Theatre at The J. This year’s finalists are Addy Gardner, Cameron Ritchie, Chace Curtis, Corbin Newberry, Desmond Walker III, Jocelyn Salter, Molly Sheeley, Sabine Federlein, Sutton Claycamp and Teagan Sullivan. This year’s panel of semifinals judges, Abby Parra, Anthony Fortino and Christian Owen, all have deep ties to the competition as past KC SuperStar finalists. Parra was a 2013 finalist and is the lead vocalist for the local indie folk band The Canterberries; Fortino was a 2010 finalist and is a professional singer who has performed across
the country; and Owen was a 2011 finalist and continues to stay involved in the performing arts. Rich Linden, a Kansas City DJ and entertainer, served as emcee for the KC SuperStar semifinals for the third time. The finalists will take the stage at the KC SuperStar Finals on Sunday, Aug. 30, at 7 p.m. at Yardley Hall in the Midwest Trust Center at Johnson County Community College. Contestants will compete for a $15,000 scholarship, with more than $30,000 in total scholarships awarded among the top 10 finalists. Broadway star Micaela Diamond will serve as the celebrity host and performer for the event. For more information about the competition, visit kcsuperstar.org or contact Tammy Ruder at 913 981-8878 or tammyr@thejkc.org. Sponsorship opportunities are available; more information is available at kcsuperstar.org or by contacting Ben Coate at benc@thejkc.org or (913) 981-8895.
kcjc.com
June 18, 2026 | Page 11
community news
White Theatre launches 22nd season By The J The Lewis & Shirley White Theatre at The J officially announced its 2026– 2027 season schedule, showcasing a mix of audience favorites and newer productions. Season subscription packages go on sale to the public on Tuesday, June 16, while single tickets for individual shows will be available beginning Tuesday, Aug. 11. More information about season subscriptions and the 2026-27 season lineup can be found at TheWhiteTheatre.org or by calling the box office at (913) 327-8054. In addition to opening the new season, “A Chorus Line” will be reopening the theater after a two-month renovation that includes new seating, improved acoustics and better sightlines. “This season represents some of the most thoughtful and exciting programming we’ve ever assembled,” said Jonah Greene, director of Arts and Culture at The J. “Combined with our upcoming renovation and new branding, it marks an exciting new chapter for The White Theatre as we continue to create meaningful experiences through exceptional performances and storytelling.” The season will also feature the return of The White Theatre’s beloved artists-in-residence, Kinnor Philharmonic, with both its annual New Year’s Day Concert and Summer Concert. These popular performances continue a longstanding tradition of bringing live symphonic music to Kansas City audiences while celebrating both classical repertoire and Jewish musical heritage. The White Theatre’s New Works Series returns this year, showcases original productions rooted in Jewish stories and culture. This year’s New Works Series features the world premiere of “And You Shall Be a Blessing,” a new musical celebrating the life, music and legacy of Debbie Friedman, sometimes called the Joan Baez of Jewish folk rock. The 22nd season features four main tracks: the Theatre Series, New Works Series, Concert Series and Special Engagements.
The Theatre Series “A Chorus Line” (Nov. 7–22, 2026) This Pulitzer Prize-winning musical focuses on 17 dancers auditioning for eight coveted spots in a Broadway chorus line, baring their souls in a riveting exploration of sacrifice, ambition and the human need to be seen. “‘A Chorus Line’ is a timeless story that continues to resonate with audiences because of its honesty, heart and celebration of the people who make theater possible,” said the show’s director and choreographer, Christina Burton. “Audiences will be swept up in these characters’ stories, inspired by their passion and mesmerized by the incredible talent of Kansas City’s performers.”
“Little Shop of Horrors” (Jan. 30–Feb. 21, 2027) A hapless florist’s life is transformed when he nurtures a bloodthirsty plant with big dreams and an even bigger appetite. Featuring an early rock-and-roll score, this cult classic blends comedy, horror and romance.
“Leopoldstadt” (March 20–April 4, 2027) Presented in partnership with the Midwest Center for Holocaust Education, Tom Stoppard’s Tony Award-winning final play traces a prosperous Jewish family across half a century of Viennese history, from the grandeur of 1899 to the devastation of the Holocaust. A deeply personal drama explores memory, identity and loss through the lens of one family’s story.
“The Sound of Music” (July 3–25, 2027) Rodgers and Hammerstein’s beloved classic follows the spirited Maria, who becomes governess to the von Trapp family in Austria on the eve of World War II. continued on page 15
The Do-Not-Pack List By Bridey Stangler PJ Library
We have all started to pore over the lists sent home from our children’s overnight camps. Eleven pairs of underwear, 18 shirts, 16 pairs of shorts, a thousand pairs of socks, and all for just 21 days. And don’t forget the journal for deep thoughts, the cameras, the hacky sacks, flashlights and frisbees. Well, my dear first-time camp parent, I’m here as a wizened and street-hardened second-time camp parent to share the facts. So here you have it: What Not to Pack for Your Overnight Camper • Anything at all; let them pack themselves. Mostly. Packing your bags is a rite of passage, a first test of independence. If your children can read a list, then they can make a stack of too many swim shirts. (And you can always check how they did when they’re not looking.) • Precisely half the clothes requested by the camp: If your child is a boy (and I know this from personal experience), he will wear one of three t-shirts and probably the same pair of shorts every single day. I, at least, verified this in the daily delivery of photos from camp. If your child is a girl, she is too busy sharing with and borrowing from every girl in her bunk to wear her own clothes too often, anyway. I know this from personal experience, too. • Expensive water bottles: They’re like flushing money down the drain, my friend. • Your own anxieties: Don’t worry – your kid will have plenty of their own. You don’t need to send them with your own concerns about homesickness (it’s natural) and unmatched clothes (also natural), or the fear that your children won’t make friends (they will). You are brave. You are bold. You are the reason our people have made it this far, and your kid will be okay. • Secret cookies, SnakPaks and potato chips: I remember seeing a movie in the ‘90s where a kid
snuck an entire salami into camp. I assume it was not a kosher salami, but I always thought it was hilarious. But in this age of strict allergy policies, I don’t think anyone would think it was as funny as I do… • Childhood stuffies (without their knowledge): It just about killed me when Darby went off to camp without it. I almost slipped it into his bag. But if I can trust him to pack all the rest of his items, then I can trust his decision to leave his best friend at home. And, yeah, he did okay. Sniff. • Toothpaste — Just kidding. Darby, please remember to brush your teeth. • A camera: this one comes straight from my camper. For his birthday just a month before he went to camp last year, we bought Darby a super hipster CampSnap screen-free digital camera. I was bursting with sentimentality as he unwrapped it, remembering the hours I spent examining prints from my own camp experience, mailing them off to friends, sharing them and trading them. But as Darby says, “I had too much fun to worry about taking pictures.” What more could I wish for my Zoomer baby? And, again, camp sends home literally hundreds each day. • Walkmans, discmans, dozens of AA batteries and ten rolls of film: The items that seemed so vital to my own sense of self – those are things that my child doesn’t need. Add envelopes, stamps, and personalized stationery to the list of outdated camp supplies. Letters home come in the form of hand-written notes, scanned and delivered to a digital inbox in a matter of moments. But the more camp changes, the more it stays the same. Campers still sing silly songs, get extremely dirty, break rules (but not too many) and make friends for life. We, the parents, still fret and cry and laugh over stories we will never fully understand and never be fully prepared for — no matter how many swim shirts we remember to pack.
June 18, 2026 | Page 12
commentary
kcjc.com
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 Kansas City, or the Kansas City Jewish Community as a whole.
Because you never know “At my age, I don’t even buy green bananas,” my columnist-idol Erma Bombeck once quipped. “Who knows if I’ll be alive in three days when it ripens?” My cousin who is decades younger evidently shares this sentiment. When I asked her why she ends every phone conversation with, “I love you,” she told me, “In case anything happens to the person before I talk to them again. I want those to be my last words.” From a similar “who knows” perspective, I recently refused an offer of a two-year membership to a national organization. “But you would get a 10% discount if you signed up for multiple years,” the membership representative told me. “I don’t care how much I would save. I’m not about to tempt fate by assuming I’ll still be around in two years.” Three days? Two years? One phone conversation later? None of us know our expiration date. But it would be foolhearty to state my expectation of long life out loud. Nor would I ever anticipate that any good fortune will continue. As an extremely superstitious person, I must say or do whatever I can to affect my fate. Fortunately, as a Jew, I have a treasure-trove of techniques to keep good times coming and bad ones at bay. To start with, there’s our magic word kinehora, the Yiddish expression combining the German “not one” and Hebrew “evil eye.” Especially when talking about one’s health, it must be uttered immediately upon hearing positive news, as in, “It was only bad sushi, not a heart attack. Kinehora.” The word also works in more mundane situations. Riding in the car with my father, of blessed memory, my observation, “The traffic isn’t too bad,” would inevitably be followed by his refrain, “Please. Don’t give me any kinehoras.” Pregnancy, historically an extremely dangerous condition, required more than magic words. Some Jews still refuse to give gifts or set up a nursery until the baby comes. Jewish dads have been known to frantically put together the crib right before heading to the hospital. Jews often avoid holding baby showers in advance, lest they tempt trouble. Once the baby arrives, amulets and red thread are hung over the crib for added protection.
“Pooh, pooh, pooh” is another Jewish verbal form of defense. Originally these words were accompanied with spitting three times, an action I’m glad has been lost over the years. Non-Jews have their own equivalent phrase and gesture: “knock on wood.” Though many assume this refers to Christ’s cross, it actually predates Christianity. According to the online resource My Jewish Learning, the practice originated in pantheism which regarded trees as gods. Touching wood was believed to yield magical results. I totally understand the touching part. When the Torah is paraded around the sanctuary during the Hakafot, I’ll shove other congregants aside if necessary to make contact. I can’t imagine the terrible things that might happen if I miss that opportunity. Some may see my Torah-touching as more superstitious than religious. What’s the difference? When studying theology, we often joked, “What I do is religious, what you do is superstitious.” The difference doesn’t really matter to me. I’ll say whatever word or make any gesture I think might work. After all, to use a very Jewish sentiment, you never know. Nancy Kalikow Maxwell is a Kansas City native and award-winning author. Her book, “Typically Jewish,” is available through the Jewish Publication Society or Amazon. Her website is kaliwellinc.com and email is nancykalikowmaxwell@gmail.com.
A space to grieve without guilt or shame – Grief Recovery After Substance Passing (GRASP) By GRASP cofacilitators by Laura Bratt MA., LMLP, BCN and Dawn Owens Addiction (or substance use disorder) is a physiological problem with psychological components; it is a mental health problem, not a problem of moral fortitude. Those dealing with addiction likely have a mental illness and self-medicate to avoid dealing with the pain, frustration and loneliness of their diagnosis – or lack thereof. The reality of the stigma associated with substance abuse is very much alive. Unfortunately, it is compounded by the shame experienced by the addict/alcoholic as well as their loved ones. This stigma is strong, and its entrenchment in people’s belief systems only further enhances the shame the addict experiences, which then only reinforces the addiction. Ultimately, the addict/alcoholic continues to use substances to shield themselves from the shame. In addition, stigma against addiction has no boundaries; it spans ages, cultures, religions, level of religious observance, skin color, race, ethnicity, sex and economic level. To illustrate just how strong stigma can be, we’d like to share a story. We made a shiva call for a young man who had died from a long-term
NO NEWS IS
illness with whom our sons went to school. As the mother spoke about how much she loved and would miss her son, she said “but at least he didn’t die because of drugs.” We’ve both lost family we love to addiction. We both sat there, stunned, but knowing this mother was in pain we gave her grace. However, we left the shiva house with the renewed belief that the GRASP group we had started was needed now more than ever. Grief Recovery After Substance Passing (GRASP) is a national organization created to help provide sources of help, compassion and most of all, understanding, for friends and families who had a loved one die due to substance abuse. This is a group none of us ever wanted to join. Anyone who is a member of GRASP, or anyone who has just contacted us for information, has experienced the loss of a loved one due to substance use. We share a unique grief. We have lived the pain of addiction with our loved ones, dealing with the day-to-day agonies of their substance use/dependency. We may have wished we could have saved them and may at times felt that if we had just loved them enough, they continued on next page
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continued from previous page would get better. In the end, loving them was not enough to heal them. There is an unspoken feeling in our society that people who die because of their substance use are less than “good people.” The judgement of others can make surviving friends and families feel responsible in some way for their loved ones’ death. During GRASP meetings, members share their grief with others in similar situations, and that helps to lighten their burden. Through talking, listening and holding one another emotionally – and sometimes physically – we support each other in the journey of survival. If you or someone you know has lost someone to substance abuse or misuse, please let them know about GRASP. We meet on the first Tuesday of the month from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at First Call (9101 State Line Rd., Kansas City, MO). First Call’s mission is to reduce the impact of alcohol, drugs and addiction by providing quality resources to individuals, families and the community. For more information about GRASP or its services, please contact (816) 361-5900. We’ll end this article with how we close each meeting – “the work of grief is hard work, and we need people to help us – to listen, to hold us, to remember our loved one with us, to give us their wisdom. We are here.” Bratt and Owens have led The Kansas City area’s GRASP group since its establishment in 2023, originally in partnership with Jewish Family Services.
The story of the Jews who helped bring soccer to America By Dan Friedman The Forward This story was originally published in the Forward. For the North American FIFA World Cup, the story will largely be told through the familiar lenses of Lionel Messi, the geography of the 48 participants and three hosts, and — because 75% of the games will be played there — the continuing rise of soccer in the United States. But there is another, less familiar story woven through the tournament: the long, strange and often overlooked history of Jews in North American soccer. Mostly that’s been in the United States where players and owners have included a larger proportion of Jews than in Canada and Mexico. By my count, no Jewish players have represented Mexico, and only two Jewish men have represented Canada at senior international level and one of them, Tomer Chencinski, only did so once, in a friendly game where Canada lost 2-0 to Belarus in Doha. (Daniel Haber played 5 international games in his career). For whatever reason, whether more closely linked to Europe, denied entry to other sports, or just arbiters of excellent taste, Jewish Americans have been at the forefront of soccer in the United States for over a century. The first American to play for a major European team was Eddy Hamel for
Ajax Amsterdam in 1922. Hamel was a New York-born winger who became a star for Ajax in Amsterdam during the 1920s. An injury forced his retirement in the 1930s and, after the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands, he was deported and murdered at Auschwitz in 1943. His story remains one of the most tragic intersections of Jewish history and world football. Jews also comprised the largest soccer crowd in America when 46,000 New Yorkers watched Hakoach Vienna play New York All Stars in 1926. That record stood for over 50 years, but it also encouraged a number of members of the Hakoach team to emigrate to the US and start a New York team that was a crucial part of the American Soccer League of the era. Later, in the 1970s, the National American Soccer League — the glitzy NASL — became a success thanks to the glamorous New York Cosmos. As head of Warner Communications, their CEO Steve Ross, born Rechnitz, was the person who brought Pele over and made the league the star-studded affair it became. After Herman Sarkowsky co-founded the Seattle Sounders, the continent was almost ready for football. When the NASL faded and folded, soccer dwindled as a major sport in the United States. Alan Rothenberg saw an opportunity to revive the sport by hosting the 1994 World Cup and founding the MLS as a reset. As president of the
U.S. Soccer Federation and the chief executive of the World Cup USA 1994 organizing committee, he made both of those happen and laid the foundations for the current shape of U.S. soccer. The success of the MLS was not a foregone conclusion, though; indeed, it barely survived to the millennium. It was founded in 1993 but only started playing in 1996 — losing an estimated $350 million between its founding and 2004. The league initially turned to Don Garber, a former NFL executive, in August 1999 but even he couldn’t turn it around. By late 2001, it looked like the league would fold like its predecessors but it was able to secure new financing from owners Lamar Hunt, Philip Anschutz and the Kraft family to take on more teams. Over the past 20 years, it has become robust, enjoying the general boom of all things soccer, riding the coattails of the English Premier League. Without Robert Kraft and Anschutz, Major League Soccer might not exist today. During the league’s precarious early years, the two billionaire owners absorbed enormous losses to keep the fledgling competition alive. Kraft, the owner of the NFL’s New England Patriots, was also a central figure in bringing the 2026 World Cup to North America. As chairman of the United Bid Committee, he played a crucial role in securing the tournament for the United States, Canada and Mexico. continued on page 15
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help an underserved Jewish community, but never found the right moment on post for more earlier in life. A than 150 years, member of Kehilath a small but growing Israel Synagogue group gathered and The Temple, for something that Congregation B’nai had long been missing: Jehudah, he also Jewish comserved on the board munal life. of Temple Adath Joseph, in St. Joseph, There were soldiers Missouri, where and civilians, he has helped support families and children, of 2026 the congregaand a numtion’s preservation n HBHA Class ber of non-Jewish efforts, including attendees watchgraduatio helping care for its ing closely, curious historic cemetery. to learn during “This was my way the service. Some to give back,” followed along in Jonathan he said of his volunteer Freiden leading services prayer books. Others work at Fort at Fort Leavenworth. listened. EveryLeavenworth. “To said. “That’s how one stayed for the combine Judaism, you build a commumeal. community and full-time clergy, nity.” service where there At the center of it he said. In the Army, all was Jonathan was a real need.” where there are only Freiden, 51, serves Freiden, a Leawood, a handful of Jewas Fort LeavenKansas, resi- worth’s That ish need chaplains, was clear when dent who, since Jewish Designated volunteer DRGLs he first September, has been Religious Freiden like arrived. Group Leader, or often become the working as a volunteer DRGL, a formal role primary fato rebuild JewHome to the Army’s cilitators of Jewish jointly endorsed ish life on the storied life. Command by the Jewish WelU.S. Army base and General Staff For Freiden, the role fare Board (JWB) from the ground College, Fort Leavis both personand the military, up. enworth is often al and purposeful. created to support described as the “It’s literally one ement A longtime Kansas religious inby one,” commutellectual center City-area business and engag over Freiden nities at U.S. military of the Army. Officers and nonprofit leadgrowth bases that lack ing er, he said he had that Jewish keeps unfold always wanted to said. “To stop — it See page 15 doesn’t Brazner an as she e,” Rabbi a lifetim Rabbi Steigm deeply m in all was alongside to Judais tunity stand t her oppor itmen in this as a beauof my comm beauty,” she said years embraced me and served to and for on’s call more its depth fulfilling for many feld of our traditi Torah.” nded pray der Krics “I surrou By Sam sermon. tiful remin wrestle with our as a Jew, at g down that “the ue to live present Byuously Sam Kricsfeld s states s, passin Editor to contin contin were also of Psalm and friend Some contook place children The Book Editor Her organization that generation.” by family h, which s a is 70 years.” investigates officers d that to the next not yet bat mitzva our life an’s friend who use deadly lived beyon span of her first Former Overland years old, a my values Rabbi Steigm force) and the who have was 42 She gave started Park “Since then, I’ve elphia.Deputy Kansas City Many of sider those Chiefshe when celebrate. as having remained close of Police in Philad Metro Squad (a unit came to Happer fewis girls projection 83, 13 years after her loved that and built some and living Simon now investigates biblical and family to groups of the Kansas rabbi, lasting friendships up, very age serious crimes across gues grewJewish people I City community’s cycle. 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She nities, and the Jewish partner on, I decide I did it with sity of Kansas. After Rabbi Steigm on April 25 the Torah talk to me, that dren and to went serves did community h. as the and bat a knee injury, he official security arm was place Jehuda one… in Overland Aliyah and meaningful.” prepared for her of North mitzvah], could no longer him. n B’nai vah took Park.” stay in the Marines an and fourth Parashat Kedos Ste- and r, to bat American Jewish communiCongregatio ent from The community .” Brazner children, and subsequently Rabbi Steigm ide Rabbi Brazne ties, friend Temple, ing for security direcencouragem switched to working official an, ce of her n toliaison iation. and the Rabbi CaitlinPayne on the alongs with local in Overland tor role was created The presen and Ellen Steigm In additio sed apprec and Alongside mitzvah by Federation in Park’s human resources as federal law enforcement. 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obituaries Carole was president of her local Hadassah chapter in Chicago, where she organized lovely talent shows and held intense bridge games. She was a longtime member of both B’nai Brith and ORT. She and Seymour moved to Overland Park in the late 1970s, and she has been a resident of Village Shalom for the past six years. The couple played bridge regularly and participated in the Great Decisions discussion group and book groups. She had a great group of friends with whom she played mahjongg and bridge for many years. Carole and Seymour travelled extensively, including attending three Olympic games, a trip to Israel and all over Europe. When younger, the family enjoyed camping every summer and later frequent trips to Disney World. She was a great lover of classical music, especially opera, and Masterpiece Theatre. She could be counted on to burst into song regularly when a word, any word, triggered a memory. The family thanks her long-term caregiver Amy Bach. Donations in Carole’s name can be made to the charity of your choice or KC Hospice.
Rabbi Yehuda Fleischmann passed away in Baltimore, Maryland, on April 29 at the age of 97. He is survived by his children, Ayala (Don) Greenberg, Dovid (Zehava) Fleischmann, Batya (Yisroel) Luwish, Michoel (Essie) Fleischmann and Bracha (Levi) Mark; 23 grandchildren; and almost 70 greatgrandchildren. He was predeceased by his wife, Libby. Born in Germany, he escaped to Argentina with his mother and older brother before the outbreak of World War II. When he was old enough, he moved to New York to attend Yeshiva University, where he received ordination as an Orthodox rabbi. In the early 1960s, he was an assistant rabbi at Kehilath Israel Synagogue in Kansas City, Missouri, and then served as head of Judaic Studies and co-director of what became Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy. In the many communities across the country in which he resided, he promoted mitzvah observance and Joseph Megerman studied Torah with Jews from all sorts of backgrounds with enthusiasm, even Joseph Megerman, in his later years. 49, died peacefully at his home in Overland Park, Kansas, Carole Kaplan on June 3. Funeral services were held Carole Kaplan on June 5 at Louis of Overland Park, Memorial Chapel with burial followKansas, passed ing at Sheffield Cemetery. away on June 7. Joseph was born on May 3, 1977, in She was born Kansas City, Missouri, to Charles and in Chicago on Nov. Esther Megerman. Joseph graduated 9, 1931, to Lee and from Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy, Joseph Gross. She is preceded in death received his B.A. in history from by her husband of 60 years, Seymour the University of Missouri (MU) and Kaplan (z”l), and her sister, Marilyn his J.D. at Cardozo School of Law. Rhodes, both of blessed memory. Passionate about justice and the Sixth She is remembered fondly by her Amendment, Joseph dedicated his three children, Michael (MaryAnne), legal career to public defense, serving Julie (Alisa Kartch) and Jeffrey indigent clients in both the Kansas (Bernadette). She was very proud City and Harrisonville offices of the of, and a great “Nana” to, her six Missouri State Public Defender for grandchildren, Tyler (Daniella), Alex more than two decades. (Anisha), Abigail Dinkle (Luke), Ethan Joseph attended Camp Ramah in (Drea), Jonah (Kendall) and Mary Wisconsin from 8th through 12th Grace. She also left behind 10 great- grade and returned as a counselor grandchildren. for his freshman and sophomore
years of college. At Ramah, he was affectionately known as “Shmeggie” by campers and staff alike. Joseph was a founding member of the “pretty good 12,” which rechartered BBYO’s Twos AZA #2 in 1994, where he served as the first “Minister of Fun, Religion, and Fun Religion.” He served as president of the MU Deuteron AEPi chapter from 1997-1998, and he was president of Congregation Beth Israel Abraham and Voliner (BIAV) from 2013-2015. Joseph met the love of his life, Alice, at the Kansas City Public Defender’s Office. They shared 15 wonderful years of marriage and built a beautiful family together, raising daughters Golda and Orli. As the only son and brother, Joseph was an important member of the Megerman family and was deeply loved by his parents and sisters, Rachel, Eliana and Shira. Joseph made lifelong friends wherever he went. He was known for his intellect, quick wit, infectious laugh and great sense of humor. A devoted fan of the Kansas City Royals and Chiefs, he also loved science fiction, karaoke, podcasts, and, with his signature moves, dancing like no one was watching. Whether as a friend, lawyer, uncle, brother, son, husband, father or member of the
Jewish community, Joseph brought warmth, humor and authenticity to every relationship. There was truly no one like him. He is preceded in death by his father, Charles Megerman; fatherin-law, Bob Wasson; brother-in-law, Michael Coleman; and nephew, Mikey Coleman. Joseph is survived by his beloved wife, Alice; daughters, Golda and Orli; mother, Esther Megerman of Overland Park; mother-in-law, Arthea Wasson of Sedalia, Missouri; sisters, Rachel Coleman of Kansas City, Kansas, Eliana Megerman (Michael Merdinger) of Modi’in, Israel, and Shira Megerman of New Haven, Connecticut; sisters-in-law Emily Greer (Matt) of Monroe, North Carolina, and Thea Carlyle (Kevin) of Kansas City, Missouri; and several nieces and nephews. The family is deeply grateful to the BIAV community for its unwavering love and support and to all of his friends across the globe who meant so much to him. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to BIAV or Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy. Online condolences for the family may be left at louismemorialchapel. com.
Where Arks Once Stood
bit.ly/WhereArksOnceStood
A special multimedia project 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
We’ve done extensive research for this project gathering the history of the former Kansas City synagogues buildings that still stand. Now, we want your memories! We are updating the website with additional information submitted by community members. Email samk@jewishkc.org if you can contribute to this project!
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community and national news
June 18, 2026 | Page 15
White Theatre launches 22nd season continued from page 11
Year’s concert, this themed symphonic born and how every person carries a Filled with songs and romance, this program under conductor Chris Kelts spark of light. “Freedom Song” musical celebrates the triumph of the is followed by a festive bubbly recepDue to renovations taking place at (April 11, 2027) human spirit. tion. the White Theatre, all six performancPresented by es will be held in the social hall at The Beit T’Shuvah, Kinnor Philharmonic J and will feature general admission this original muSummer Concert seating. sical intertwines (May 30, 2027) a Passover Sed“And You Shall Be a The Kinnor “The Jewish Nutcracker” er with personal Blessing” Philharmonic (Dec. 6, 2026) stories of addiction, recovery and re(Aug. 28–Sept. 5, 2027) will return with Rebecca and demption. Performed by individuals A new musia summer symthe Nutcrackin recovery, the production offers a cal celebrating phonic program er embark on moving exploration of freedom and the life of leginfused with a magical jourtransformation. endary Jewish Jewish heritage and musical tradition. ney from Bubsinger-songThis annual concert offers a mem- be’s house to the “Encanto” Sing-Along writer Debbie orable way to celebrate the season Land of Nosh, encountering danc(June 13, 2027) Friedman, whose music transformed through music. ing dreidels and gelt-y delights along The White Jewish worship and touched millions the way. Featuring nearly 200 Encore Theatre will host worldwide. Based on her life story, the dance students, this holiday tradition a movie musiproduction features her beloved origiis for the whole family. cal sing-along of nal music and lyrics. Disney’s “Encan“The Birthday “Mamma Mia” Sing-Along to.”Lyrics will be of the World” (Dec. 20, 2026) projected on screen, and voices are (Oct. 7–9, 2026) The ABBAencouraged. This play, prepowered movie Kinnor Philharmonic New sented in partmusical comes Year’s Day Concert nership with The to The White Full details and performance times (Jan. 1, 2027) Coterie Theatre, Theatre with can be found at TheWhiteTheatre.org. The Kinnor is inspired by lyrics projected Auditions for various musicals and Philharmonic Jewish folklore on screen for a joyful communal sing- plays produced by The White Theatre will ring in the and the book by Dr. Rachel Naomi Re- along. Featuring chart-topping hits will be announced on the website as New Year with its men. This theatre-for-the-very-young including “Dancing Queen,” “S.O.S.” well as on Facebook. annual tradition. production invites children ages 0–5 and “Mamma Mia,” this interactive Tickets for the remainder of the Inspired by the and their grown-ups into an immersive, event offers fun for audiences of all current (2025-2026) season are still on Vienna Philharmonic’s famous New sensory story about how the world was ages. sale at TheWhiteTheatre.org.
New Work Series
Special Engagements
The Concert Series
The story of the Jews who helped bring soccer to America continued from page 13 If Kraft represents one side of the Jewish soccer story, Chuck Blazer represents another. The larger-than-life American soccer executive helped expose corruption inside FIFA, serving as a key witness in the investigations that ultimately toppled some of the most powerful figures in world football. Yet Blazer was a product of the very system he later helped unravel. His spectacular rise and fall remains one of the strangest chapters in soccer history, a tale of luxury apartments, exotic pets and global corruption. Unlike baseball, basketball or boxing, soccer never became known as a major arena of Jewish achievement in the United States. Perhaps that has been due to the historic lack of status for soccer in the country. Despite the excellence of Yael Averbuch West for the USWNT and a number of Jewish players for the USMNT including Jonathan Bornstein, Benny Feilhaber, Dan Calichman, DeAndre Yedlin, Kyle Beckerman and the maverick Yari Alnutt, there have been no soccer equivalents of Sandy Koufax or Hank Greenberg.
The stalwart defender Jeff “Goose” Agoos came closest with 134 international appearances and six more for the U.S. soccer Olympic team. But playing with a mediocre USMNT, he enjoyed few legendary moments. In fact, arguably no professional moments outshone the bizarre story of his 1989 NCAA championship ring in his junior year, the season that he played in the
Maccabiah. On Dec. 3 of that year, his Virginia Cavalier team (playing for future USMNT coach Bruce Arena) met the top ranked, undefeated Santa Clara team in a freezing cold stadium in Piscataway, N.J. The teams were still tied 1-1 after four overtimes and, with no penalties on the books, they shared the spoils. It was the third time that two teams shared the championship and
has never happened again. This year’s USMNT squad does include the only Jewish player at this summer’s tournament — reserve goalkeeper Matt Turner. If, as coach Mauricio Pochettino plans, Turner exclusively warms the bench, he will take his place alongside many of America’s notable Jewish soccer figures who have furthered the game, even if not on the field.
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Celebrate with our community at
August 3 at 7 p.m.
Free to attend! Come see what the Games are all about! All attendees must register in advance via Regpack by July 27. Location details to be shared upon registration. For more information, visit: jccmaccabikc.org If you only intend to attend opening ceremonies, please register as a spectator for the Games.