$1.00 The KANSAS CITY Volume 92, Number 22 www.kcjc.com May 31, 2012 jewish chronicle Village Shalom celebrates 100 years of excellence By Barbara Bayer Jewish senior living facilities in North Editor America. However other communities haven’t been as successful as Kansas One hundred years ago today, May 31, City in maintaining these facilities, 1912, the Jewish community established with at least three closing in the last five the Moshav Zkeinim Home for the Aged years. Michael Abrams, chairman of the Society. Now known as Village Shalom, board, believes the Kansas City Jewish the continuing care retirement commu- community should be proud it’s been nity began celebrating its 100th anniver- able to support Village Shalom. sary earlier this year and will continue “Our tradition teaches us a commu- to do so through its Ages of Excellence nity is judged on three questions: how Celebration in November. we educate our young, how we treat our One reason the facility is able to cel- poor and how we care for our elderly. ebrate this milestone is a successful ef- We can all take pride in that through fort that culminated last fall in which Village Shalom we’ve been able to fulfill the continuing care facility was able to the obligation of caring for our elderly reduce the $40 million in capital debt on and will continue to do so in the years to its 26-acre campus to a more manage- come,” Abrams said. able $16 million. Lewis, who is not Jewish, noted that “We have so much to celebrate,” said one of the main reasons Village Shalom Matthew E. Lewis, Village Shalom’s has survived and thrived over the years president and CEO. “Having such a suc- is due to the depth of support it receives cessful capital debt reduction campaign from the Jewish community. has truly solidified the financial stabil- “It’s not just the financial backing of ity of the organization.” our facilities. It’s the commitment, the “To be able to carry that forward and caring, the volunteering … all of the dif- celebrate 100 years of serving the Jew- ferent aspects of how this organization ish community is really special and it’s works. I’ve worked for other faith-based really meaningful. The timing of it has retirement communities, and I think just been a real blessing. It certainly has truly the Jewish community’s commit- given us much more to celebrate.” see Village, page 18 Today there are approximately 100 Egyptian election promises uncertainty for ties with U.S., Israel By Ron Kampeas JTA News & Features Photo by tatjana alvegaard analysis Village Shalom is a continuing care community that offers more than your typical senior WASHINGTON — The Egyptians pointed prime minister in 2011 in the care facility. One of the popular amenities is the Spa & Wellness Center, where Daniel Stoner stunned even themselves in the vote teaches Anita Daniels how to do strengthening exercises. final days of the regime of deposed to elect their next president — and ob- President Hosni Mubarak. Each took servers are warning that the U.S. and less than a quarter of the vote to reach Israel should be ready for continued the runoff, with three eliminated can- uncertainty in their relations with didates splitting most of the remain- Egypt. der. Two finalists emerged following the Morsi and Shafiq present strikingly roller-coaster first round at the polls different outlooks for Egypt’s future: last week: Mohammed Morsi, the can- Shafiq is stressing law and order, and didate of the Muslim Brotherhood, and Ahmed Shafiq, who had been ap- see Egyptian, page 20 page 2 The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle May 31, 2012

Th e KANSAS listening post CITY jewish weekly family worship chronicle and to top it off coordi - a tradition since 1920 nated the NFTY region - al Spring Havurah host- ed by Beth Torah this Stephen F. Rose By Barbara Bayer, past April. Mazel tov to Chairman [email protected] Editor Mollie and all the other scholars in our Jewish David Small ANOTHER SHINING STAR — community! President After the paper came out last week I [email protected] THEATRE IN THE quickly learned that the Jewish com- PARK — I’m told many munity had not one but TWO Jewish Barbara Bayer members of the Jewish Editor students who were invited to speak community are taking [email protected] at their high school’s commence - part in a variety of pro - ment ceremonies. Mollie Chesis, the ductions in this the 43rd Marcia Montgomery daughter of Paul and Julie Chesis Community Editor summer season of John- and a member of Congregation Beth [email protected] son County’s Theatre in Torah, spoke at Blue Valley High the Park. A program of School’s graduation. A Chronicle Sa - Amy Cohn Johnson County Park Advertising Manager lute to Youth honoree in June 2011, and Recreation District, [email protected] she spoke about taking chances and it is the largest outdoor relying on and trusting one’s self to community theater in Barbara Lewis Godfrey move forward. Mollie collected nu - Account Executive the country. TTIP pro - merous awards this year including [email protected] vides high-quality live the Superintendent’s Award and the theatrical entertain - Judy Lanes state ACT award, received cord recog- ment, including Broad - Mollie Chesis was one of the featured speakers at Blue Valley Account Executive nition in eight areas and was “senior way-style musicals and High School’s commencement ceremonies on Sunday, May 20, [email protected] of the year” in three academic depart- a host of special events. ments. In addition she was one of the ASNER HALL OF FAME INFO Mike Bennett Open auditions are held each year top four students in her school for - Production Director to cast the shows. This season will — As we’ve already told you, Ed As amassing community service hours. [email protected] include six shows never seen before ner will be inducted into the Kansas During the school year she also as - at TTIP. All shows begin at 8:30 p.m.; Hall of Fame along with Gov. Alfred sisted Linda Sweenie with the music - Heather Swan gates open to the amphitheater at 7:20 M. Landon, Sen. Nancy Landon Kasse Special Sections Editor during the Weiner Religious School’s baum Baker, founder Cyrus K. Holli - [email protected] p.m. The first production, day, The Atchison, Topeka and Santa - “ S w e e n e y Fe Railway, Professor George Wash Questions regarding subscriptions may be Todd,” runs ington Carver and publisher William - directed to Lisa Small. Call 913-951-8407 or June 8-10 and Allen White. The Great Overland Sta , email [email protected] June 14-17. tion in Topeka 701 N. Kansas Avenue, It is directed is hosting an exhibit of Hall of Famer Published every Thursday by by the Jew - memorabilia. You can see Asner’s 1971 ish Commu - Emmy Award along with the desk and nity Center’s an original script from the Mary Tyler Director of Moore Show. You can even see Asner’s - Theatre Mark baby shoes! Also on display are origi - 4210 Shawnee Mission Parkway, Suite 314A Swezey (and nal letters written by George Washing Fairway, Kansas 66205-2532 ton Carver and Cyrus K. Holliday, a Chronicle Offi ce: (913) 951-8440 rated R). Ruth Bigus has a photo album and cane that belonged to Facsimile: (913) 674-5379 Alf Landon and a huge whistle from a Website: www.kcjc.com role in “Uri - E-mail: [email protected] netown,” July Santa Fe steam locomotive. The exhibit - 20-22 and July will be on display through July 15 dur ©2012 MetroMedia. All rights reserved. 26-29. For a ing regular museum hours. For more complete list information about exhibit hours and PUBLISHER NOTICE - of shows and tickets, visit www.greatoverlandsta The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle (ISSN 0022-8524) (USPS ticket infor - tion.com. Don’t forget Asner will star 290140) is published weekly throughout the year, plus in the one-man show FDR on July 17 at one special edition in June and another in September, by mation, visit MetroMedia, 4210 Shawnee Mission Parkway, Suite 314A, w w w . t h e - the White Theatre. It is a fundraiser for Fairway, Kansas 66205-2532. Subscription $54.95 per Local kosher sushi fans learned last week that Hen House has started of- atreinthepa - Friends of Sheffield. year in area (includes sales tax), $64.95 per year outside the area. Periodicals Postage paid at Shawnee Mission, fering kosher sushi at the Kosher Island made by Hissho Sushi. Showing rk.org. Kansas Postmaster: Send address changes to: The Kansas off the new kosher sushi on the first day is Chris Wade, regional man- City Jewish Chronicle, 4210 Shawnee Mission Parkway, ager for Hissho Sushi (from left), Vaad HaKashruth Executive Director Suite 314A, Fairway, Kansas 66205-2532. Rabbi Mendel Segal and sushi chef Thang Lian Khup. May 31, 2012 The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle page 3 KC woman questioned for wearing prayer shawl at Kotel

Three women were stopped for questioning after at- instructed to wear our tallisim as a scarf and we did tempting to pray at the Western Wall wearing Jewish just that.” prayer shawls on Tuesday, May 22. One of the three Upon exiting the plaza, the three women, includ- was Sarit Horwitz, 26, a graduate of Hyman Brand He- ing Horwitz, were briefly detained by the police who brew Academy and a second-year rabbinical student took their personal identification and contact details, at the Jewish Theological Seminary of Conservative although they did not give a specific reason for the Judaism in New York. She has been in Israel for a year, demand. They were told they would need to present studying at the Shechter Institute, a pluralistic Jew- themselves to the police for further investigation and ish studies seminary, as part of her rabbinical studies questioning. course. “It’s frightening to me that a woman wearing a tal- The women, part of a group of about 40 from the lit is a criminal threat to the State of Israel,” Horwitz Women of the Wall group, were praying at the wall as told The Jerusalem Post. “I’m leaving the country in part of their monthly Rosh Chodesh, or new month, a week and a half and I hope when I come back Israel prayer service, The Jerusalem Post reported. will be a more religiously tolerant and understanding Horwitz and the other two women are featured in a place.” YouTube video posted on the Women of the Wall Face- On the video, Horwitz voices her support for Wom- book page. The Jerusalem Post article quoting Horwitz en of the Wall and its importance to women. is also posted on the Facebook page. Women of the “I think it’s important that holy spaces in Israel Wall’s central mission is to achieve the social and legal aren’t just for a certain group of people and that we recognition of “our right, as women, to wear prayer can also feel that this space (the Kotel) is ours. With- shawls, pray, and read from the Torah collectively and out Women of the Wall there’s not the framework to do out loud at the Western Wall.” that,” she said. Horwitz told the Jerusalem Post that a policewoman Horwitz is the daughter of Tobi Cooper and Rabbi approached her during the group’s prayer service and Danny Horwitz, a former rabbi at Congregation Ohev told her to adjust the tallit she was wearing because Sholom. she was wearing it as a man does. A male officer then adjusted the tallit for her without her permission. Some information for this report was provided by JTA News & Features. As Erica Miller explained on the video, “we were Sarit Horwitz

village shalom 42512JL58X 4c x 4.8” page 4 The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle May 31, 2012 BUSINESSBUSINESS SPOTLIGHTSPOTLIGHT Jewish Community Center and KU’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute form educational partnership

The Jewish Community Center of Greater The course will be taught by Nancy Hope, Kansas City and the Osher Lifelong Learning associate director for special projects for the Institute at the University of Kansas are proud Confucius Institute at the University of Kansas to announce the formation of an educational and associate director of the Kansas Consor- partnership that will bring short courses to the tium for Teaching about Asia. Center’s Overland Park campus. • The World of Rodgers and Hammer- “KU welcomes such a dynamic partner,” stein, Mondays, July 2, 9 and 16, 2 to 4 p.m. said Frederick W. Pawlicki, executive director — The collaboration of Richard Rodgers and of KU Continuing Education. “This collabo- Oscar Hammerstein II resulted in the crea- ration between the Jewish Community Center tion of the modern American musical where and KU helps both institutions extend lifelong serious story was told through dialogue, mu- learning opportunitiesKU throughout ME JohnsonD sicMA and dance. ThisRK unlikely Eduo becameTI theN G DEPT County and beyond.” most important creative team in the history of “Osher courses are a perfect complement the American musical theater, and the course to the Center’s educational and culturalbiz arts will include s pdetailedo commentarytligh on several of t lineup,” added Jacob Schreiber, executive di- their most important shows. There will be a rector of the Jewish Community Center. “We special review of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s have thousands of adults here hungeringfu forll beloved p“Theage King and I” as a tie-ins tto theo ry the kind of intellectual and practical enrich- JCC’s summer musical that runs July 14 to 29 ment Osher will help us provide.” at the Lewis and Shirley White Theatre. The Osher Institute provides a variety of 52312The instructor, Paul Laird,BG Ph.D., 22is a popu- noncredit enrichment courses aimed primarily lar Osher instructor and nationally known pro- at students more than 50 years of age but open fessor4C of musicology X at KU9.75” who has published to anyone. The courses are typically offered in widely on musical theater topics. two-hour sessions over three consecutive weeks. As a special bonus, Osher participants can Jim Peters “Osher courses are taught by expert instruc- purchase tickets to the Jewish Community tors whose passion for teaching is matched Center’s production of “The King and I” at A special event for Jayhawk fans — The His- only by their students’ joy of learning,” said a discounted price of $14 when purchased tory of the Jayhawk — will be held in Lawrence Jim Peters, director of the Osher Institute at through the KU Osher registration center. on Friday, July 13, at 2:30 p.m. at the KU KU. “There’s no homework, no tests, no pres- For more information, to register or purchase Adams Alumni Center sponsored by the KU sure. Just good, clean learning,” added Peters tickets, call toll-free at 877-404-5823 or visit Alumni Association, KU Libraries and the Os- with a smile. www.osher.ku.edu. her Lifelong Learning Institute at KU. Becky The Center will offer two Osher courses this In addition to courses at the Jewish Com- Schulte, University Archivist, will recount the summer: munity Center, the Osher Lifelong Learning creation and evolution of the most-recognized • The Silk Road: from Marco Polo to Institute at KU also offers courses at the KU mascot in the country. Tickets are $10. Mao, Wednesdays, June 6, 13 and 20, 7 to Edwards Campus and Tallgrass Creek Retire- The public is invited to register for courses 9 p.m. — The course will explore the history ment Community in Overland Park, Aberdeen or events by calling toll-free at 877-404-5823 and culture along this ancient trade route that Village in Olathe, Lakeview Village in Lenexa, or visiting www.osher.ku.edu. The sliding begins with Marco Polo, the famous 13th-cen- Claridge Court in Prairie Village, Brewster scale of fees makes Osher courses affordable: tury trader from Venice, and continues to its Place in Topeka, Brandon Woods and the KU one course, $40; two courses, $65; three place in the 21st century. Learn more about Continuing Education building in Lawrence courses, $85; and four courses, $100. Addi- the peoples along the Silk Road, their art, and Maple Woods Community College in tional courses are $15 each. The History of technology, belief systems and stories. North Kansas City, Mo. the Jayhawk is $10. May 31, 2012 The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle page 5

KU MED MARKETING DEPT biz spotlight ad request page 5 52312BG22 4C X 9.75” page 6 The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle May 31, 2012 Broadway ‘expert’ Seth Rudetsky to strut his stuff in KC

By Ruth Baum Bigus “I know lots of hilarious stories from Contributing Writer their experiences at the Tony Awards — from singing completely wrong lyrics to What’s a nice Jewish guy doing on someone having the nerve to pronounce national satellite radio and writing Stephen Sondheim’s name wrong in books, playing the piano professionally, front of him,” he said. “I love making and starting his own reality show on his people laugh and I love letting people own network June 18? know how Broadway works.” If you’re Seth Rudetsky, it’s all in a Rudetsky said being Jewish gives day’s work. For those who follow the him a strong cultural connection to Broadway theater scene, Rudetsky is Broadway. the beloved afternoon Broadway host “When I was growing up, there on Sirius/XM Radio and of a new show, weren’t a lot of Jewish movie stars, but “Seth Speaks”. He’s also a columnist Broadway was overflowing with yid- for Playbill.com, and his resume builds dishkeit,” he said. “I certainly had a lot from there. of Jews to idolize growing up who were So what’s this nice Jewish Broadway Broadway bigwigs: Leonard Bernstein, expert and entertainer doing coming to Jule Styne, Marvin Hamlisch etc.” Kansas City this Sunday, June 3? Rudetsky enjoys being involved in Rudetsky is starring in his one man almost every aspect of performing and show, “Seth Rudetsky Tells You Ev- being connected to Broadway. He isn’t erything You Wanted to Know About happy unless he’s balancing several dif- the Tonys: A sassy, savvy tell-all with Sandi Fried (left) and her daughter Gabbie met Seth Rudetsky last year following his live ferent projects simultaneously. Broadway’s funniest insider” at the Sirius/XM Radio show, which was aired that day from the The Broadway Concierge & Ticket “I love it all,” Rudetsky said. White Recital Hall at the University of Center in the Times Square Visitor Center in New York City. “I especially love the radio because Missouri-Kansas City. Rudetsky’s 6 p.m. I get to spread the love of Broadway show is in connection with Music The- According to his website, the Jewish played for more than a dozen Broadway across the country,” he said. atre for Young People’s senior produc- performer’s first big role came when he shows including “Les Miz,” “Phantom” Does Rudetsky have any show busi- tion of “Chicago.” (MTYP is a profes- was in the third grade; he played the and “Ragtime.” He was the artistic pro- ness advice for Gabbie and her fellow sional performer training program for Cowardly Lion while attending Hillel ducer/music director for the first five MTYP? youth grades two through 12.) Among summer day camp. Next up, Rudetsky annual Actors Fund Fall Concerts. And “Do not listen to anyone who says you those involved with the MTYP show is “starred” in the camp’s production of in 2007, Rudetsky made his Broadway can’t do it,” Rudetsky said. “Try to take Jewish performer Gabbie Fried, daugh- the operetta, “The Mikado.” It was an acting debut playing Sheldon in “The every opportunity that comes your way ter of Sandi and Ed Fried. This is Gab- auspicious start for a Jewish boy from Ritz” directed by Joe Mantello for The because you always learn something bie’s sixth MTYP production and likely Long Island. His first directing gig came Roundabout Theater. from it.” her last as she heads off to New York in junior high as assistant music direc- Rudetsky has done off-Broadway, For more information about the University this fall to study acting. tor for his school’s production “Once writing and starring in “Rhapsody in June 3 performance of Chicago and Ru- “I’m excited because I’ve seen his Upon a Mattress.” And Rudetsky’s first Seth” as well as television with appear- detsky’s show, visit www.mtyp.org. show before and his show is really awe- “professional” gig? A small part in “Oli- ances in “Law and Order C.I.” and a re- some,” Gabbie said. “My mother and ver” at the Northstage Dinner Theater curring role on “All My Children.” Ru- I have already enjoyed listening to his starring Shani Wallis, the actress who detsky has also written books including Intel to invest in Israeli opinions and guests from many of the starred as Nancy in the movie. “The Q Guide to Broadway” and “Broad- universities shows so it will be fun to see how he Rudetsky’s theater passion contin- way Nights,” which was just released as JointMedia News Service — Intel Corpora- thinks the Tony’s will end up this year.” ued through high school with stints in an audio book featuring Andrea Martin, tion (Nasdaq: INTC) plans to invest in compu- So how did Rudetsky’s visit come shows at summer arts camp. His talent Jonathan Groff and Kristin Chenoweth. tational intelligence projects at the Technion about? Through MTYP’s music director for playing the piano also blossomed. Rudetsky is looking forward to his re- Institute of Technology in Haifa and the Julie Danielson, who now works in New Upon high school graduation Rudetsky turn performance in Kansas City. Hebrew University of Jerusalem as part of a York City. The two worked together on went to Oberlin Conservatory as a clas- “People can expect to laugh,” said Ru- $40 million global investment in leading in- several benefit concerts and “Legally sical piano performance major. How- detsky about his show. “My shows are novation universities over the next five years. Blonde,” an MTV reality show. Daniel- ever, what he really enjoyed was playing always based in comedy and everything The Intel Collaborative Research Institutes son introduced Rudetsky to Danielson’s the Broadway repertoire. He got into else comes from there.... People can (ICRI) is funding “collaborative university mother and MTYP Founder Cary Dan- more music directing, as well. Post col- expect to leave loving Broadway more research to fuel global innovation in key ielson Pandzik. lege, Rudetsky had stints with various than they already do. And if they’re the areas and help address some of today’s most “We told him about MTYP and all theaters around the East Coast and a type of person who doesn’t know any- challenging problems,” Intel CTO Justin Rat- our successful alums,” Danielson said. European Tour of “A Chorus Line.” thing about Broadway or professes to tner said, according to Globes. “He was intrigued and mentioned he Then there was the position of musical hate, I guarantee they will leave loving “Forming a multidisciplinary community of had only been to Kansas City one other director for “Forever Plaid” — he even Broadway,” he said with a laugh. Intel, faculty and graduate student research- time.... So we’ve been trying ever since to came to Kansas City with that produc- Rudetsky has been doing a talk show ers from around the world will lead to bring him in town to see the great work tion. about Broadway since 1999 and has in- fundamental breakthroughs in some of the that MTYP does ... and do his show.” Needless to say, Rudetsky’s career terviewed hundreds of its performers. most difficult and vexing areas of computing So for those who don’t follow Broad- around professional theater — both in During his show, he’ll share some in- technology,” Rattner said. way, who is Seth Rudetsky? the pit and on the stage — took off. He’s sights from those conversations. May 31, 2012 The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle page 7

Quality Hill Playhouse 10711JL16 4C X 9.75” page 8 The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle May 31, 2012 Daughter unravels mystery her mother left behind

By Tana Goldberg pers and letters, in Hungarian, Yiddish and German. Special to The Chronicle “I took them without her knowing it, and had them translated,” Marcus said. “They revealed unexpected Sidonia Perlstein survived the Holocaust to become surprises” — including that Marcus’ father was much a talented designer and seamstress. But when Perl- younger than her mother and didn’t want to commit stein died on Mother’s Day six years ago at the age to marrying an older woman. There was enough infor- of 93, she was still a mystery to the daughter she had mation for Marcus to trace him to his home in Israel. raised alone in western Massachusetts. “When I finally called my father, he was neither cor- “My real mother was someone I never truly knew,” dial nor receptive to my requests to arrange a meeting said Hanna Perlstein Marcus. between us, having never revealed my existence to his But Sidonia’s death only made Marcus more deter- family,” said Marcus. “My childhood dreams of find- mined to understand her mother and seek out the fa- ing a father who would welcome me with open arms ther about whom she would never speak. were shattered. Although I eventually met the daugh- Marcus recounts what she learned in her mem- ter he had later in his life, it never turned into a lasting oir, “Sidonia’s Thread: The Secrets of a Mother and relationship.” Daughter Sewing a New Thread in America.” It is Drawing on the papers from the nightstand, the trip available online at Amazon and Barnes & Noble. to Hungary and her childhood memories, Marcus as- “Piecing together her story showed me a mother sembled a picture of her mother. who was a stronger, more resilient and courageous Sidonia was a “content and somewhat sheltered person than I ever thought,” said Marcus, who is 64. woman who came from a close-knit, large immediate Their story begins in 1947 in a displaced persons and extended family, all lost in the Holocaust,” said camp near the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp in Marcus. “She was a changed woman after the war, northwest Germany. In her mid-30s, an unwed Sido- very insular, solitary and reclusive — unable to reveal nia gave birth to a daughter she affectionately called how her child was conceived, her correct age and why “Hanele” (little Hanna). Two years later, the two immi- she behaved in such a withdrawn manner.” grated to the United States. Since they had no Ameri- Sidonia and her sister Laura were interned at Aus- can relatives to sponsor them, the American Joint chwitz, Dachau and Bergen-Belsen. Laura died of ty- Distribution Committee randomly assigned them to phus only two months before the liberation of Bergen Springfield, Mass. Belsen in April, 1945. The author has connections to Kansas City. Steve “In Dachau, during a roll call, the officer in charge Rothstein and Ann Rothstein Cromer (now Chana asked if anyone could sew,” Marcus said. “My mother Cromer of Jerusalem), are two of her only cousins in must have shouted louder than any other woman with the entire world. her hand raised because she was chosen to work in the “Steve’s mother, Olga, and my mother were first camp’s office. She sewed ripped seams, buttons, and cousins since their mothers were sisters. They came Newest Methods from A to Z” (1967), the only sewing replaced zippers for the soldiers and office staff dur- from the Tokaj-Hegyalja wine-producing region in book Sidonia ever owned. She never opened it, but the ing her last few weeks in Dachau. Because her leg was Northeastern Hungary. Olga, her brother Ference, book always sat on a table in her sewing room. broken just a day before [that roll call], I have always who returned to Hungary after being liberated, and Marcus went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in psy- thought that her sewing skill actually saved her life my mother were among less than a handful of that chology at UMass.-Amherst. Wearing her mother’s de- during the Holocaust.” extended family who survived the Holocaust. When signs, she was voted one of the best-dressed women on Following Sidonia’s death in 2006, Marcus began they arrived in America, Olga and her family settled campus. to think about writing the book. “My mother went to in Kansas City,” Marcus said. At the University of Connecticut, she received her death without knowing I had uncovered these trea- Marcus said Sidonia was blessed with a self-taught master’s degrees in counseling and social work. As a sures in her nightstand,” Marcus said. “She never told talent for sewing and a flair for fashion. licensed clinical social worker, she embarked on a ca- me secrets. We were keeping secrets from each other.” “She was a fashionista and a great admirer of Jackie reer in social work and public sector human services. Originally, Marcus planned do genealogical re- Kennedy. I’m tall and thin, so I was her perfect model.” After marrying in 1969, she had two children, Brenda search by finding people who knew her mother in Hun- Although mother and daughter were close, Marcus and Stephen, and settled in Vernon, Conn. gary or in the DP camp. She succeeded in contacting felt that her mother wanted to keep part of herself at a In the mid-1980s, Marcus and her daughter accom- some of them, but nearly all were reluctant to talk. distance. For example when she was 6, she asked about panied Sidonia to her hometown in Hungary. “So I decided to write mainly from memory,” Mar- her father. “When my mother and her family were deported, cus said. “My research was not scholarly. This is a very Her mother’s “response was cold, and she was un- they always thought they would be back,” Marcus said. personal story.” willing to talk,” Marcus said. “I never asked again.” “They had treasures hidden for safekeeping. We were As she began to write, Marcus remembered the Both mother and daughter always wore clothes de- searching to see if there were mementoes of the family sewing book the customer had given her mother. With signed and made by Sidonia. I never knew.” permission from the Coats and Clark Company, Mar- “For the most part, I realized the clothes she made They didn’t find anything, but Hungary reignited cus used titles and excerpts from the book to serve as were stunning. I was wearing couturier clothes when I Marcus’ interest in her mother’s past. the “thread” to tie her own book together. was 13 years old,” Marcus said. “The trip was a turning point. My feelings changed, “ ‘Sidonia’s Thread’ is really about Sidonia. I am Sidonia went from working in a dress factory to be- and I wanted to write about it,” she said. the facilitator to tell her story,” said Marcus. coming a foreman and finally opening her own busi- In 1998, while helping the then 86-year-old move into ness as a fashion designer and seamstress. One grate- senior housing, Marcus looked inside her mother’s Parts of this article were originally published in The Jewish Advocate of Boston. ful customer gave her “Coats and Clark’s Sewing Book: nightstand and found it filled with photos and with pa- May 31, 2012 The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle page 9 in business Footworks settled in new home after ood

Every time a big thunderstorm hits last big fl ood, many people don’t know for your feet,” he can also fi ll orthopedic eration. Together, we always have your the area, someone calls Jeff Dubinsky that Footworks survived and is still in prescriptions for custom-molded shoe foot-care needs in mind from the fi rst to make sure his business isn’t fl ooded. business. Footworks specializes in treat- inserts, lifts, foot and ankle braces. All moment you walk in the door until your The business was damaged extensively ing people who suffer from foot and an- custom work is done at Footworks on custom-molded shoe inserts or other in June 2010 when Indian Creek explod- kle problems. site. custom orders are fi nished,” Debbie Du- ed its banks and fi lled his business, Foot- Dubinsky is a certifi ed pedorthist Footworks is accredited by the Amer- binsky said. works, with more than 3 feet of water. It and owns the business along with his ican Board for Certifi cation in Orthot- Footworks is open Monday through sustained so much damage that it had to wife Debbie. Dubinsky treats patients ics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics. It accepts Friday. Appointments are available close and move to a new location a little suffering from a variety of painful is- most health care insurance companies from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more infor- farther from the creek on higher ground sues including plantar fasciitis, post tib- and can work with individual HRA and mation, call 816-942-3668. at 1152 W. 103rd St. in Kansas City, Mo. ial tendonitis, fl at feet, high arches and HAS accounts. While it’s been two years since the diabetic feet. Known as a “pharmacist “We are truly a mom and pop op- SPIN! opens fth metro location

SPIN! Neapolitan Pizza opened its premium wines, the restaurant will of- Pizza was crowned one of the nation’s and their dining companions will enjoy new Lenexa location at 9474 Renner fer seating for 100, a bar, and an outdoor best dishes of the year by a national res- a 10 percent discount on food after the Blvd. in the Prairie Center shops on May patio that seats 48. On Tuesday evenings taurant magazine, and its architecture rides. 28. Known for its food made from fresh during the summer, live family-friendly won Best of Show at the Mid America SPIN! is owned and operated by ingredients and its eclectic, affordable music will be played on the patio with Design Awards. Gail and Richard Lozoff and Edwin no cover charge. SPIN! also is known for its unique Brownell, who are experienced in large Since opening its fi rst location in community outreach programs includ- multi-unit expansion, franchising, and 2005, SPIN!® has been awarded “best ing free weekly bike rides during the operations. Israel’s Arava fi rm pizza” by many of Greater Kansas City’s summer. Open to all ages and skill lev- For more information, visit www. fi nances $204 million publications. SPIN! recently was named els, the rides will be led by experienced spinpizza.com. for solar projects one of the “Rest of the 101 Best Restau- cyclists who emphasize safety. Rides rants” in the nation by top foodie web- will be held at 6:15 p.m. Thursdays at JERUSALEM (JTA) — Israel’s Arava Power site TheDailyMeal.com. Its Margherita the Lenexa SPIN! Bike ride participants Company has closed on fi nancing for eight Employment solar power projects worth $204 million. Arava, based in Kibbutz Ketura in southern opportunities Israel, will build fi ve solar energy fi elds in Give Dad the gift of theatre for Father’s Day the Negev. The company also will be building are available for; three solar projects in the kibbutz communi- FrRESERVEiends YOUR of S SEATheffiel TODAYd ties of Kerem Shalom, Mishmar HaNegev and ACCOUNTS Bror Hail. See Ceme livet ine ry “We are helping to fulfi ll David Ben-Gurion’s JuneED 17 • 7pmASNER • White TheatreFDR in JCC vision of turning the Negev into the center of RECEIVABLE/ solar energy production,” said David Rosen- (Page5801 5, W. 7 115th or Street 9) 42612JL45 Benish blatt, co-founder and vice chairman of Arava. ••• Tickets start at $36.00 ••• PAYROLL/ “These installations to be built in the Negev Call Arlene Shalinsky at 913-642-8588 Desert are yet another step towards energy 2c x 2” Bradley independence for the State of Israel and a Group Tickets Available • www.sheffi eldcemetery.org BOOKKEEPER greener future for generations to come,” said Jon Cohen, CEO of Arava. NO41312 ExperienceBG necessary.3F Israel’s Public Utility Authority in March We’ll create a new kitchen for you, granted Arava a license for the country’s larg- 1cSalary Commensurate,x 4.8” est solar energy fi eld to go online at Kibbutz Gwinand guarantee’s Tile it as long as you own it! and takes little of your time. Ketura. Construction on the $150 million Ke- Countertop Replacement with Corian, Onyx, Granite and Tile, tura fi eld is set to begin at the end of this year New Cabinets, Prefinished Hardwood & Tile too and is expected to be completed in mid-2014, Requirements: according to Arava. Company In February, Arava was granted the fi rst-ever REASONABLE PRICES • INSURED Should be a computer literate. license for a solar project in the Bedouin 42512JL15 community; it is being funded by the U.S. Gwin’s Tile Co., LLC For more info Contact: government. Since 1977 [email protected] 913-649-90602c • xwww.gwinstile.com 2” page 10 The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle May 31, 2012 celebrations Engagement Bat Mitzvah Bat Mitzvah Bat Mitzvah Dr. Kurt and Stephanie Kavana- Debbe Trachtman has chosen to be- ugh announce the Bat Mitzvah of their come a Bat Mitzvah at 10:30 a.m. Satur- daughter, Molly Joy, on June 2, at Kib- day, June 2, at The Temple, Congrega- butz Gezer, Israel. Molly is the grand- tion B’nai Jehudah. Trachtman earned daughter of Sandy Aaron, St. Paul, her Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology Minn., and the late Dr. Harvey Aaron, and psychology and a Master of Arts Deanie Collins, Wooster, Ohio, and Ed degree in ancient history at the Univer- Kavanaugh, Kansas City, Mo. Relatives sity of Missouri-Kansas City. Having re- and friends are invited to worship with tired from Xerox, Trachtman continues the family and to attend the Kiddush post-graduate work at the University of following the service on Jan. 12, 2013, at Kansas in ancient history and the sci- Congregation Beth Shalom. ences. Trachtman is the daughter of Ida Mour and the late A.J. Mour. Family and friends are invited to celebrate with her. Matisyahu comes to KC June 1 Matisyahu will perform at Dance- www.creativelookstudios.com Zoe Madeline Rudman festopia, Friday, June 1, at Richard L. Carly Brown and Berkley Riverfront Park in Kansas City, David and Julie Rudman announce Louis Stein Mo. He is expected to be featured on the the Bat Mitzvah of their daughter, Zoe main stage at about 4:55 p.m. that after- Stewart and Esther Stein of Leawood Madeline, at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June noon. Ticket information can be found announce the engagement of their son, 9, at The Temple, Congregation B’nai at www.dancefestopia.com. Louis Stein, to Carly Brown, daughter of Jehudah. Zoe is the granddaughter of Matisyahu recently announced the Arnie Brown and the late Sandee Brown Robert and Sandra Rudman, St. Louis; details of his fourth studio album, of Buffalo Grove, Ill. Maureen Rudman, St. Louis; Jim Roth- “Spark Seeker.” Produced by Kool Ko- The future groom is the grandson well and Kriss Avery, St. Louis; and Car- jak (Nicki Minaj, Travis Barker, Ke$ha), of Mary Smith and the late Edward ol Rothwell and Roger Pierard, Kansas it is set to be released on his own label, and Annette Stein and the late Leo and City. Great-grandmother is Erma Dun- Fallen Sparks Records, via Thirty Ti- Shirley Polterock. He attended the Uni- ham. Relatives and friends are invited gers/RED, on July 17. He recorded the versity of Wisconsin-Madison, earning to worship with the family and to attend 13-track album in Los Angeles, New a degree in economics. He is currently the Kiddush following the service. York and Israel. The first single, “Sun- employed as a fund accountant at State shine,” is already available on iTunes Street Corporation. and at Amazon. Bat Mitzvah The bride-to-be is the granddaugh- Since first emerging on the interna- ter of Adele Wolpin and the late David Barbara Bohen and Mark Bohen an- tional stage in 2005, Matisyahu has es- Wolpin and the late Harry and Ethel nounce the Bat Mitzvah of their daugh- tablished a reputation for transcending Brown. She attended the University of ter, Mackenzie Joy, at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, boundaries — from the stripped-down Wisconsin-Madison, earning a Bachelor June 2, at Congregation Beth Shalom. roots reggae of the gold-certified “Live of Business Administration degree in Mackenzie is the granddaughter of at Stubb’s” to the trippy ministrations marketing. She is currently employed as Edith Kaplan, Fort Lee, N.J., and Sandy of the Grammy nominated “Youth” to the program director of KU Hillel. and Alan Bohen, Boynton Beach, Fla. the polished pop eclecticism of “Light.” A June 17 wedding in Madison is Relatives and friends are invited to wor- In 2010, he returned to the venerable planned. ship with the family and to attend the Austin venue that introduced him for Jared Polin Kiddush following the service. “Live at Stubb’s, Vol. II,” demonstrating Matisyahu during his 2011 summer tour. that all of his travels had only strength- ened his connection to his musical bed- globe. The album mixes ancient tradi- Bat Mitzvah “ Make your children your rock. Selling more than 2 million albums tional sounds with futuristic electro students when they are young, Ann and John Brendle announce the worldwide, it was a whirlwind half-de- beats, rapping with singing, and songs and they will not make you Bat Mitzvah of their daughter, Amanda cade journey, one that earned Matisya- of the spirit with songs of the body. Grace, at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 2, at hu a place in pop culture at large. The album has a depth to it as well their students when you grow The New Reform Temple. Amanda is the Now based with his family in Los as a lightness, which alludes to the most old .” granddaughter of Richard and the late Angeles, Matisyahu blasts off yet again essential theme of the record — that ev- with “Spark Seeker,” a bold new studio erything in life, especially music, exists — Hasidic folk saying Carol Levin and the late John and Laura Brendle of Boonville, N.C. Relatives and album that finds the one-of-a-kind vocal- in mixtures and blends. friends are invited to worship with the ist and songwriter exploring uncharted “Things are not as black and white as family and to attend the Oneg following territory with help from an expansive we would like to think. Not everything the service. cast of collaborators from around the can be oversimplified,” Matisyahu said. May 31, 2012 The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle page 11 Summer ‘Soulstice’: An Ayeka workshop Teaching is hard work. Operating a ing of themselves for an entire school preschool for nearly 200 children, pro- year, Jewish teachers are in a place fessionals at the Jewish Community where they deserve some nurturing of Center are first-hand witnesses to the their own souls. Regardless of where or skill and dedication required to teach, with whom they work — youth or adults; inspire and care for students day after in public, private and religious schools day, month after — teachers share month. The Cen- many of the same ter is offering challenges and Jewish teachers rewards. in the community “This Ayeka an opportunity workshop will to “spiritually re- provide a safe fuel” by partici- and informal pating in a three- space where they week Ayeka can relate their Congregation B’nai Jehudah President Andrew Kaplan and Dan Stolper, president-elect. workshop dur- experiences to ing the month of carefully selected June. The work- Jewish texts. My B’nai Jehudah elects officers, trustees shop takes place intent is to as- from noon to 1:30 sist each person The Temple, Congregation B’nai Je- to the board of trustees. Other trustees p.m. on Tuesdays, to gain, at his or hudah held its annual meeting on May include Bob DeWitt, Jody House, Mi- June 12, 19 and 26. her own pace, a 10. At that meeting, the following slate chael Klein, Michael Liss, Doris Men- The price is $25 greater sense of of officers was elected: del, Andy Navran, Rosanne Rosen, Lisa for each teacher and $30 for non-teach- awareness, meaning, gratitude and joy. Andrew Kaplan, president; Ellen Schifman, Doug Stone, Don Swartz and ers. What a great way to begin the summer.” Dalen, Jocelyn Fry and Larry Lehman, Mike Zanders. Howard Mayer is imme- According to Ayeka coordinator The workshop is limited to 16 partici- vice-presidents; Donna Thalblum, sec- diate past president. Edna Levy, who will lead the workshop, pants and pre-registration is required retary/treasurer; and Dan Stolper, pres- Heather Goodman serves as Sister- “Ayeka is Hebrew for a critical question: by calling 913-327-8000. ident-elect. hood president. Marshall Bernstein ‘Where are you?’ We think that after giv- Jonathan Freiden was newly elected serves as Brotherhood president.

Federal Saving Bank (The) AFMDA 51712BG382 5812JL18 2c x 4.8” 2c x 4.8” page 12 The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle May 31, 2012 KC SuperStar Semifinals take place June 11 On Monday, June 11, come hear 25 of Arthur Clifford, Olathe East, sopho- the best high school singers the Greater more Kansas City area has to offer. Haley Crane, Raymore–Peculiar, se- This “American Idol”-style compe- nior tition will select the best high school Cece Dawson, Kearney, sophomore singer in the metro area. KC SuperStar Noah Dayson, Pleasant Hill, junior is produced by the Jewish Community Jessica Earley, Frontier School of Ex- Center of Greater Kansas City. It is cellence, sophomore sponsored by Wells Fargo Advisors, Inc. Emeri Eaton, Shawnee Mission West, Trudy Jacobson and Donna Thalblum senior are co-chairs for KC SuperStar. Katie Gomes, Park Hill South, senior These 25 semifinalists, represent- Juan Gonzalez, Blue Valley North, emy, freshman show will be given away to one lucky ing 24 different schools, were selected senior Haley Thomas, Odessa, freshman winner attending the Semifinals. through open auditions in April. They Brianna Griffin, Archbishop O’Hara, Jean Whitley, Raytown South, senior This year’s $7,500 scholarship, award- represent a cross-section of greater senior The semifinalists have all attended a ed to the winner of KC SuperStar, has Kansas City. They will all compete at 7 Jackson Gulick, Shawnee Mission workshop in which they received feed- been named in memory of Brooke Tivol p.m. on Monday, June 11, hoping to be Northwest, junior back and guidance regarding their song McGrath. The second place winner will one of the 10 selected for the Finals and Cory Henson, Grain Valley, junior selection for the competition. Judges for receive $2,500, the third place winner hoping to win the grand prize, a $7,500 Steven Hodge II, Piper, freshman the Semifinals are Tim Bair, producing will get $1,000; all other finalists receive scholarship. The Semifinals will take Kalyn Hounshell, Belton, sophomore artistic director of Theatre in the Park; $250. place in the White Theatre at the Jewish Montrez Jones, Center, senior Joseph Nadeau, artistic director of the In addition, University of Kansas Community Campus. It is free and open Tekeshia Lee, Blue Springs South ,se- Heartland Men’s Chorus; and Kristi Basketball Coach Bill Self will also be to the public. nior Mitchell, music teacher at Barstow honored as the Community SuperStar While admission to the Semifinals is Grant Mayfield, St. Thomas Aquinas, School. for his long-standing commitment to free, attendees are encouraged to bring sophomore “The judges are going to have a dif- youth-oriented projects and programs. a donation for Community Linc, a non- Rachel McMillan, Park Hill South, ficult time selecting only 10 finalists ... Proceeds from the event benefit the profit transitional housing organization, junior these teens are incredibly talented,” JCC’s scholarship program, which whose mission is to end homelessness, Abigail Parra, Bishop Miege, junior Thalblum said. “The evening promises provides financial help for children, impact poverty and remove barriers Erick Patrick, Olathe South, sopho- to be very entertaining and it’s free to families and individuals to access to to self-sufficiency. Donations might in- more attend.” programs and activities of the center. clude non-perishable food items, towels, Jacob Schweizer, Blue Springs, ju- The KC SuperStar Finals will take Funds raised will also support KU’s washcloths, pillows and sheets (may be nior place 7-9 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 26, in Yard- Athletics Program by providing educa- gently used). Samantha Smith, Blue Valley West, ley Hall at Johnson County Commu- tional opportunities to deserving stu- The semifinalists include: junior nity College. While the Finals event is dent-athletes. Kira Altizer, Winnetonka, senior Monica Stanley, St. Teresa’s Acad- already sold out, a pair of tickets to the BIAV elects new officers, board at annual meeting Congregation Beth Israel Abraham & Voliner installed officers and board Friends Next Dor members at its annual meeting earlier this month. kickball team According to President Andy Ern- stein, who is in the third year of his term, “We are blessed to have three new forming young and energized officers for the highly active portfolios of house (facili- Join the Friends Next Dor team ties), membership and programming. in the Blue Valley Recreation Sum- That’s a great indicator of the health mer Co-ed Kickball League. Games and vitality of our congregation.” will start between 2 and 10 p.m. on New officers are Vice Presidents Sundays Danny Wajcman, Daniel Rosenthal, Joe The season runs July 22 through Loeffler and Margie Robinow; Secretary Aug. 19. Cost is $10. Sign up in the Joseph Megerman; and Treasurer Mike Congregation Beth Torah office by Katzman. July 6. Contact Farrah Udell at 913- 498-2212 for more information. New board members are Adam Kaye, Pictured with BIAV President Andy Ernstein (from left) are newly-elected vice presidents of This event is sponsored by Ke- Claudette Levy, Zalman Mulokandov, house (facilities), membership and programing, Danny Wajcman, Daniel Rosenthal and Joe hillah KC and Friends Next Dor, Albert Natanov and Yosef Silver. Con- Loeffler, Secretary Joseph Megerman and Treasurer Mike Katzman. tinuing board members include Gevura building community for young Jay Robinow, Marty Rosenberg, Mindy ry Bernard, Ron Dimbert, Bob Frager, Jewish adults in Kansas City. Davis, Norm Glass, Debbie Graham, Wajcman, Sara Wajcman, Chaim White Brenda Rosenthal and Howard Rosen- Debbie Greenberg, Brian Gruber, Deb- and Flora Winitz. thal. bie Haney, David Horesh, Dana Morgen, Past presidents on the board are Jer- May 31, 2012 The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle page 13 One-minute video calls Join the authors of ‘Kings of Cut-Rate-The Katz Drugs Story’ for moment of silence The Katz Drug Stores were an icon “I’ve been at Olympics in the Kansas City area for decades. You astounded by (JTA) — Israeli Deputy Foreign Minister Danny can learn more about this historic Kan- the interest Ayalon has created a one-minute video in the sas City area business and its owners, in the Katz campaign to have the Munich 11 remembered Isaac and Michael Katz, at 2 p.m. Sun- story and the at this summer’s Olympic Games in London. day, June 3. Katz’ grandson Steve Katz number of The video, part of the appeal that Israel is and author Brian Burnes, who teamed people who calling Just One Minute, asks the International up to write “The Kings of Cut-Rate: have come Olympic Committee to have a minute of silence The Katz Drugs Story,” will share their forward who in memory for the Israeli athletes and coaches experience compiling this book at the worked for the slain at the 1972 Munich Games by the Pales- Heritage Center of the Jewish Commu- stores,” Katz tinian terrorist group Black September. nity Center at the Jewish Community said. “This video is one minute long, the same Campus. This free event is jointly spon- Books will amount of time we are asking the International sored by Jewish Family Services’ Help@ be available Olympic Committee to stop and remember, Home program, the Heritage Center of for purchase contemplate and to send a message that the the Jewish Community Center and the at the event, international sporting community will stand Johnson County Library. using cash or against hatred and violence,” Ayalon says in “My grandfather and his brother check only. the video. Mike had a knack for turning obstacles The authors The IOC rejected an official letter sent from into opportunities,” Katz said. “They will be avail- Ayalon asking that the London Games open grew the business from a fruit stand into able to sign with the moment of silence honoring the a 65-drug store chain with $100 million them during 11 Israelis. In turning down the request, IOC in sales. I wanted to share their story.” a post-presen- President Jacques Rogge wrote in a letter The book is rich in photographs, arti- tation recep- dated May 15 that “The IOC has officially paid facts and other memorabilia. During the tion. For more tribute to the memory of the athletes on sev- book event Burnes and Katz will share information, eral occasions. Within the Olympic family, the stories about the history of the Katz contact Dawn memory of the victims of the terrible massacre chain that they uncovered in research- Herbet, JFS in Munich in 1972 will never fade away.” ing and writing the book. director of Older Adult Initiatives, 913- 327-8239, or email her at dherbet@jfskc. WANTED NEW SUBSCRIBERS REWARD IF YOU GIVE A GIFT SUBSCRIPTION OR REFER A NEW SUBSCRIBER The Jewish Chronicle will reward you with a $10 coupon to apply to your own subscription. Send this form with the new subscription.

Your Name ______Address ______City ______State ______Zip ______FREDERIC Phone NumberH ______ouse Ad - JL NEW SUBSCRIPTION E GOODMAN Name ______53112JL26 Address ______City ______State ______Zip ______42612JL25 Phone Number ______2c x 4.8” Local Rates: 1 Year $54.95 2 Years $84.95 3 Years $104.95 2c x 4.8” *Please call for rates to other areas Check enclosed VISA Mastercard Discover American Express Name on Card ______Account Number ______Expiration Date ______CVV ______Signature ______Mail to: The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle, 4210 Shawnee Mission Parkway, Suite 314 A, Fairway, KS 66205. Call (913) 951-8407 for more information. page 14 The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle May 31, 2012 Poignant play “Mr. Green” takes the stage of White Theatre Unlikely circumstances pull together Mr. Green, an elderly Jewish man who’s become a recluse with the 20-something, career-obsessed Ross Gardiner. What do they have in common? They’re both lonely — and they’re both hiding some- thing. What ensues is a comedic drama about friendship, family and forgive- ness. Mel Prezant, bugler (from left), Steven Schorr, Lloyd Hellman, Larry Gordon, Marvin Denton, It’s all part of the Jewish Community Sheldon Turetsky, Mike Katzman, and Marvin Korn and his grandson, Sebastian Guthrie, of Boy Center’s upcoming production of “Visit- Scout Troop 24. ing Mr. Green,” the award-winning play by Jeff Baron. Performances are 7:30 p.m. May 31, June 2, 7 and 9 and 2 p.m. JWV participates in Memorial Service June 10 in the White Theatre at the Jew- ish Community Campus. Jewish War Veterans (JWV) Mo-Kan who passed away since last Memorial This show stars Greg Butell as Mr. Post 605 participated in the annual Me- Day. Hazzan Rob Menes of Beth Shalom Green and Bob Kohler as Ross Gardiner. morial Service at Mount Carmel Cem- led the attendees in “Keil Male Rach- Both actors have impressive resumes, etery on May 20. The Post Color Guard mim” and “America the Beautiful.” having performed at various theaters presented and retreated the colors. Upon retreat of the colors, Mel Pre- throughout Kansas City. The produc- Rabbi Alan Cohen of Congregation Beth zant played Taps from the cemetery tion is directed by the JCC’s Director of Shalom led the pledge and gave the in- grounds as the Post and American flags Theatre Mark Swezey. vocation. were dipped in respect. The JCC’s Director of Cultural Arts Mike Katzman, former Post and De- The event was held a week early, Krista Blackwood said these two charac- partment of Midwest Commander, read since the second day of Shavuot fell on ters have allowed difference to stand in the names of the 42 Jewish Veterans Memorial Day this year. the way of living and loving. And both need to find a way to come to terms with that. While on the surface they appear Bob Kohler (left) as Ross Gardiner and Greg different, Mr. Green and Ross find their Butell as Mr. Green in the play ‘Visiting Mr. Volunteers needed sameness as the play develops. Green.’ Volunteers are needed at Congrega- people. These are perfect opportunities “Although the characters in this play box office, with hours 3-6 p.m. Monday tion Beth Torah for Joel’s Ride on June for teens to gather community service are Jewish, the core learning in this play 3, the E-Recycle event on June 10 and the hours for school or confirmation. is that people are the same everywhere,” through Friday; or you may purchase tickets online by visiting the JCC web- Panera CBT Golf Tournament on June Contact Laura Intfen at 913-498-2212 Blackwood said. “Everyone knows 18. to sign up to help out at any of these someone like Mr. Green, and everyone site at www.jcckc.org/boxoffice, and click on Cultural Arts. You can sign up with a friend or fam- events. knows someone like Ross. Their specific ily member or just sign up and meet new characteristics make the story interest- For more information, visit the web- ing, but their human-ness and their in- site or call the main office 913-327-8000. dividual struggles are universal.” Tickets for are $14 for members, “I must uphold my ideals, for perhaps the time will come when $20 for the general public and $10 for I shall be able to carry them out.” students (college and under). Tickets — Anne Frank may be purchased by contacting the

MID AMERICA Sharon Sigman COACH QB 27BG53112 42512JL18 2c x 2” 2c x 2” May 31, 2012 The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle page 15 Ohev Sholom Sisterhood holds Annual Shabbaton and Installation Join the Ohev Sholom Sisterhood on Saturday, June 16, as this year’s theme, “Land of Milk and Honey,” continues at the 17th annual Shabbaton. Meet at the home of Shirlee Ernstein, 10120 Mackey, Overland Park. The Shab- baton will begin at 9:30 a.m. with a con- tinental breakfast. Following breakfast will be Shabbat Services, which will be led by Sisterhood members. The installa- tion of offi cers will be celebrated during services. Those being installed include Judy Press, president; Selma Levine, vice president of communications; Ruth Roth, vice president, fundraising; Nao- mi Silverman, vice president, member- ship; Mary Birnbaum, vice president, programming; Mary Ann Birnbaum, recording secretary; Donna Krichiver, treasurer; Judy Hochman, historian. Committee chairs include Priscilla Baylor, Bar/Bat Mitzvah Certifi cates; Judy Press Barb Stras, fl yer design; Carol Offen- After services attendees will enjoy a bach and Phyllis Denton, hamantaschen; Kiddush luncheon, then have the oppor- Elaine Friedman, High Holiday food; tunity to participate in breakout sessions Lori Klarfeld, recycling liaison, Sally after lunch, read a book, play games, Gordon and Melanie Allmayer, Shab- take a nap, take a walk or schmooze with baton; Marsha Naron, Simcha Tree; Marcia Soltz holds one of the m any outstanding tzedakah boxes at the B’nai Jehudah Judaica your friends. For more information and Shirlee Ernstein, Sunshine; Phyllis Den- Shop. to RSVP, call Shirlee at 913-498-8288 or ton and Shirlee Ernstein, Talmud Torah Lynne at 913-345-1349. Everything on sale at B’nai Jehudah Cards; and Sally Gordon, publicity. Sisterhood Judaica Shop KosherFest this Sunday Don’t miss the best Jewish food you more. There will be entertainment by Mark the dates of the annual summer other consignment items). can buy outside of Jerusalem. Join the the Kinnor Philharmonic Brass Quin- sale at the B’nai Jehudah Sisterhood Ju- Buy meaningful and beautiful gifts Ohev Sholom family in just three days tet and Oy Tate. The kids will have lots daica Shop. Dates are June 10-15. Times for weddings, confi rmations, babies, for the semi-annual KosherFest, 11 a.m. of fun on the kid’s infl atables, including are 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday, June 10, and B’nai Mitzvah, birthdays, anniversaries, Sunday, June 3, in the lower parking lot Adrenaline Rush Obstacle Course, Dual 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday-Friday, June 11- holidays and house warmings, and re- at 5311 W. 75th Street, Prairie Village. Acceleration Slide and Excalibur Com- 15. member to treat yourself. Your favorite foods will be available: bination Moonwalk and Slide. All merchandise will be 20-50 percent The Temple, Congregation B’nai Je- falafel, Carol Brooks’ stuffed cabbage Lots for everyone to enjoy. Stay un- off (except Circle of Hope bracelets, hudah is located at 12320 Nall Avenue, rolls, Shirley Pener’s sweet dairy ku- til 5 p.m. For more information call the CDs, books, cards, Kosher scrolls and Overland Park. gel, deli sandwiches and much, much synagogue offi ce, 913-642-6460. OVERLAND PARK GOLD AND SILVER Account/Bookkeeping Rep An Honest CompAny • pAying top DollAr for your preCious metAls Larry Brundage OP Gold & S10540ilve Metcalf Ave. r For Brundage Furnitures. Interested Overland Park, KS 66212 42612Jpersons shouldL send50 a cover letter 4312BG58913.901.8330G with his/her resume available to: NORTHLAND GOLD AND SILVER 2c [email protected] 2” 2c x 2”2421 Burlington KC, MO 64116 816-474-1344 page 16 The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle May 31, 2012

Healthy living NRT confirmation

On Friday, May 18, the 2012 confirmation class of the New Reform Temple celebrated its A group of KU Hillel Healthy Living student leaders meet for dinner with influential women completion of the confirmation study year with Rabbi Alan Londy and confirmation teacher within the Kansas City community, Alana Muller (from left), Elizabeth Willens, Hannah Rutzik, Tom Barnett. Pictured are Barnett (from left), Eleanor Davis, Sarabeth Barnett, Zoe Honeck, Nikki Multer, Jessica Joffe, Susie Greenberg, Donna Thalblum and Malinda Kimmel. Skylar Brennan, Grant Auer, Leah Cohon, Katherine Berkley, Erika Levy, Erica Holmes and Rabbi Londy.

Teachers honored Mixing and mingling

More than 100 people gathered for Mix & Mingle, a program for senior adults of The Temple, Congregation B’nai Jehudah. Guests enjoyed a barbecue dinner followed by a performance of On Sunday, May 20, Congregation Beth Torah’s Weiner Religious School teachers received pins ‘It Might as Well be Spring’ by Ray Zarr, Cantor Sharon Kohn and accompanist Marilyn Wood. signifying 15 years of teaching in the school. Pictured here are Rabbi Vered Harris, education Pictured here are Rachel Kurz (clockwise, from left), Marty Bass, Dave Weinstein, Judy Wein- rabbi (from left); Eva Steiner, first-grade teacher; June Crane, second-grade teacher; Diana stein, Bob DeWitt, Maurine Agron, Sam Agron, Sandra Parelman and Kathy DeWitt. Hurst, third-grade teacher; and Marcia Rittmaster, religious school and youth groups director. May 31, 2012 The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle page 17

Farewell, Rabbi Harris 61 years for Troop 61

On Sunday, May 20, Congregation Beth Torah’s Weiner Religious School faculty presented Rabbi Vered Harris with several gifts in appreciation of her leadership to the school for the past 12 years. Rabbi Harris will be leaving Beth Torah next month for a new pulpit in Okla- homa City. Pictured above are Rabbi Mark Levin (front row, from left), Eva Stein, Marcia Rit- tmaster, Henri Goettel, Rabbi Harris, Sarah Sweenie, Linda Matorin-Sweenie, Louis Hipsh and June Crane. Back row, Rochelle Kohn, Aaron Nielsenshultz, Denise Ellenberg, Beth O’Bryan, Daniel Altshull, Elaine Tobias, Norine Rosenblum, Rabbi Moti Rieber and Robin Hendrikse. ‘International Fair’

Al Beitchman was recently recognized at a Troop 61 Court of Honor for his 61 years of dedicated service to Boy Scout Troop 61. Beitchman has been involved in the troop in every capacity, starting as a Boy Scout, earning his Eagle Scout and on through Scoutmaster, and Aladdinown as sponsoringCafé organization liaison. Troop 61 looks forward to Beitchman’s continued 42312BGinvolvement39 and support. Troop 61 is sponsored by Congregation Beth Shalom. 4c x 4.8” Send us your snapshots The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle group activity, family celebration or has instituted a feature called Snap- holiday observance, for example, and shots, in which we gather all the best we’ll publish the best ones each week. The Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy second-grade ‘International Fair’ was held in the Social photos submitted to the paper each All we ask is that the photos be high Hall on May 17. This inquiry-based study is a culminating activity for the second grade week. We want to offer a forum here for quality, sharply focused and that you language arts/social studies program. Each student chose a country to research that had not your photos that depict the life of the include identifying information for ev- been studied in class. The reasons for choosing countries were as unique as each child. Some Jewish community. This is the essence eryone shown. were interested in a country because of its architecture, its animals or its history. Students of what journalists call “reader-gener- Send those e-mails to our main ad- learned research, note-taking and report writing skills. Following the short program, parents, ated content.” Think of it as another dress: chronicle@metromediapublish- guests and Lower School students visited individual displays that second-graders created form of social networking, if you like. ers.com, and we’ll reply when we re- and talked with them about their learning. Above, Shalom Dovid Schulgasser is in costume Digital technology makes it easy, so, ceive them. representing Italy. please, e-mail us photos of your youth- page 18 The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle May 31, 2012 Village Shalom celebrates 100 years of excellence from page 1 village Shalom’s ment to caring for the elderly far sur- passes any other faith-based organiza- humble beginnings tion that I’ve worked for,” Lewis said. in 2012, 91 orthodox Jews In particular, Lewis praises the sup- signed the charter for the port the board has provided over the Moshav Zkeinim home for the years. aged Society. a 14-room house “We’ve always had and we continue to located at 29th and troost was have very strong board leadership. I’ve donated by herman appleman always been grateful for the people from in 1918. named the Michael the community that have given so much appleman home in memory of their time to serve on our board. It’s a of herman’s son, it began ac- huge time commitment,” he said cepting residents in 1918 and served the community at that Staying on Solid footing location for nearly 32 years. a neighboring house was pur- Lewis has been with Village Shalom chased to provide additional for 12 years, first serving as chief finan- residential space, and its ga- cial officer. He will celebrate his seventh rage served as the facility’s anniversary as chief executive office synagogue. tomorrow, June 1. During that time he This photo, taken sometime in the 1950s, shows residents at the Home for the Jewish Aged, ground was broken for a new has always had to keep an eye on the which was located at 78th and Holmes, participating in occupational therapy. home at 78th and holmes in financial situation. Administrators of- 1948. two years later in 1950, ten worry about reimbursements from ployees and retain them through train- es it from other similar facilities in the 18 senior adults moved into the facility, which was now called Medicare and Medicaid, entitlement ing, staff development and employee area. He also feels Village Shalom offers the home for the Jewish aged. and insurance programs that many res- recognition and appreciation. unique things others don’t. at that time it could accom- idents rely on. Those revenue streams Lewis can point to the fact that strides “Certainly one of the things that in those areas have led to decreased em- comes to mind is the gallery. No other modate 76 residents. in 1954 a are very tenuous and often vulnerable Special Services unit opened, ployee turnover in five of the last seven facility that I am aware of has a gallery to budget cuts. increasing the home’s capacity years. In 2004, employee turnover was or something that even compares to While revenue from those programs to 90 residents. will continue to be unpredictable in the 101 percent. In 2010 it was 23 percent and what we have,” Lewis said. the name changed again in future, Lewis points out that Village in 2011 it was 30 percent. Lewis said the He said Village Shalom is always 1967 to the Jewish home for Shalom’s occupancy rates continue to industry average is between 60 and 70 challenging itself to do new and creative the aged. the home’s capacity be strong. percent annually. programs and activities for its residents. doubled, increasing to 181 resi- “Last year, 2011, concluded our fifth In the next 10 years, Lewis said con- “We do much more by way of pro- dents, in 1968. a new name, straight year of 95 percent occupancy tinuing to attract quality employees will grams and activities than any other fa- Jewish geriatric and conva- or higher and we’re on track to achieve be one of the facility’s challenges. cility within the metro area,” he said. lescent center, was adopted that in 2012,” Lewis said. “Five years and “There are a lot of good nurses and “We provide well beyond just the typical in 1970, this time to reflect an running is a pretty remarkable stretch.” staff members that are very good in things that you would think of. We do expansion of services. Not everyone Village Shalom serves terms of their skill set or their clinical those things, too, and they are impor- Shalom Plaza apartments and is a resident, and those numbers con- knowledge, but we also seek staff that tant, but we try to go above and beyond. Multi-activity Senior center tinue to rise as well. care very deeply about our mission of We try to inject new activities.” opened next door to Jgcc with “For example our dementia day pro- taking care of the elderly,” Lewis ex- Lewis said meeting individual inter- 125 apartments in 1978. in an gram, on an annual basis, typically plained. ests is another thing at which Village effort to identify that Jgcc and Shalom Plaza facilities were serves 100-plus people. We provide out- “We want our staff to provide our Shalom excels. branches of a single organi- patient therapy and our wellness center residents with a dignified quality of life “We do a lot of group activities and zation, the home changed its has community participation. So when that far surpasses other organizations. programs, but we go above and beyond It takes really special staffers to do to see that the individual interests and name to Shalom geriatric cen- you look at all of the unique individuals ter in 1985. that,” he continued. hobbies of our residents are met be- that we serve, it’s well over 700 people on Plans for the new village cause that’s important to the individual. an annual basis and that number has re- Shalom, located on 26 acres in ally continued to grow over the last sev- Providing quality care We strive to provide that holistic care,” overland Park, were finalized eral years,” Lewis said. he continued. in 1997. village Shalom opened When he became CEO, one of his pri- Indeed Lewis is proud of the care Vil- its doors to the community mary goals was to build a management lage Shalom offers seniors, and said it the celebration almost 12 years ago on June 20, team that not only had more experience can’t be matched anywhere else in the 2000. within their respective areas of exper- community. Lewis said Village Shalom is current- tise but also more industry experience. “People of other faiths truly know ly firming up details to share several “I also worked hard on retention so the quality of care that we provide, so celebratory anniversary events with the Irwin Kula, the president of CLAL-The that Village Shalom had stability on the they understand that there’s a real com- entire Jewish community. Dates have National Jewish Center for Learning management team level,” he said. mitment to that,” Lewis said. not yet been confirmed, but they include and Leadership, and the annual Ages of Along those lines, he also set in mo- The CEO feels that Village Shalom’s a birthday party at Village Shalom, a Excellence Event in November. tion plans to attract high-quality em- commitment to quality care distinguish- speech at the White Theatre by Rabbi May 31, 2012 The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle page 19

SCHLITTERBAHN VACATION VILLAGE 2212BG4 4C X 9.75” page 20 The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle May 31, 2012 Egyptian election promises uncertainty for ties with U.S., Israel from page 1 guarantees the perpetuation of the peace treaty, which affords Egypt $1.3 at least a partial return to the days of billion in U.S. assistance annually, as the Mubarak regime. Morsi is promis- well as the good will of the international ing governance based on Islamic values. community. The runoff election is set to take “We have to remember that anyone place sometime before the end of June. governing Egypt has to take into ac- The two finalists — one an erstwhile count the interests of the state,” said Mubarak ally, the other a representa- Elie Podeh, a professor at Hebrew Uni- tive of the Islamist movement that was versity’s Department of Islamic and its bitter rival — are expected to make Middle Eastern Studies. Because of its for a polarizing election. For the many treaty with Israel, Egypt “gets a lot in Egyptians who supported the revolu- terms of money, in terms of security, in tion against Mubarak but are wary of terms of support.” further empowering the Muslim Broth- It is not clear what powers Egypt’s erhood, the runoff presents a dispiriting president will have — a new Egyptian choice. constitution has yet to be drafted. Jon But whatever the results of the elec- Alterman, the director of the Middle tion, many observers expect that the East program at the Center for Strategic country will be getting a government and International Studies in Washing- more inclined than its predecessors to ton, said that whoever wins will have play to the Egyptian street — a state of some impact on how relations with the affairs that could lead to rockier rela- West go forward. tions with the United States and Israel. Nehal elSherif via CC “The key question with Morsi is not “The individual result is probably An Egyptian woman casting her vote at a ballot in the city of al-Mahalla in northern Egypt on how he will act in times of normal rela- not dispositive to U.S.-Egyptian bilateral May 23. tions but how he will react in a time of relations or relations with Israel,” said crisis,” Alterman said. “Mubarak was pete for the Islamist vote. The key goal for the United States Michael Wahid Hanna, a fellow at the dependable. It is unclear any leader of “Regardless of who is president, you in the short run will be to preserve its Century Foundation, a think tank based Egypt will be so dependable.” will have ongoing competition between interests and to promote a stable transi- in New York. “Those relations are go- The U.S. and Israel might have to ac- the Brotherhood and Salafists which tion to democracy, whomever is elected ing to change regardless because public commodate a more hostile rhetoric, at will push the Brotherhood to the right,” president, said Schenker, who served as opinion matters as it didn’t in the past.” least in the interim, while cultivating he said. a senior Middle East policy official at As an example, Hanna cited Egypt’s the new leadership, said Joel Rubin, the Schenker noted that even during the the Pentagon under President George non-interference during Israel’s 2009 director of government policy at the transition, under the West-friendly mili- W. Bush. war with Hamas in the Gaza Strip, to the Ploughshares Fund, a body that pro- tary, the relationship with Israel already “We’ll want assurances about access extent of maintaining strict controls on motes peace initiatives. has been affected. Egypt has effectively to the Suez Canal, the peace treaty with the Gaza-Egypt border. “Israel and America will both have to cut off natural gas supplies to Israel, a Israel, political pluralism, protection of “The government will not be able to accept there might be language coming program that was unpopular with Egyp- women and minorities,” he said. take an affirmative role in terms of but- out of the Egyptian parliament and lead- tians. And last Sukkot, the first after the In the short run, at least, the con- tressing Israeli policy in relationship ership that is new playing to the crowd,” revolution, Egypt suspended the export tinued preeminence of the military — to Hamas,” he said. “The knock-on ef- he said. “It’s not in our interests to see the of palm fronds, one of the four species in the form of the SCAF, the Supreme fect would be massive protests in the relationship go in the wrong direction.” streets.” needed to celebrate the holiday. Council of the Armed Forces — likely Even Shafiq, the candidate better known to the West and with an estab- Israel to pay salaries court. told JTA earlier this month that he objects to lished relationship with Israeli and U.S. of non-Orthodox Some 4,000 Orthodox rabbis serve as rabbis of Gold’s designation as a rabbi. interlocutors, would not be able to resist their communities and draw a salary from the “The decision today paves the way for dozens of populist suspicion of Israel, said David community rabbis government. other Reform and Conservative Rabbis in Israel Schenker, a senior analyst at the Wash- JERUSALEM (JTA) — Israel’s attorney general Attorney General Yehuda Weinstein said the to receive a salary from the government for their ington Institute for Near East Policy. has agreed to pay the salaries of non-Orthodox rabbis would have the moniker “rabbi of a holy work, in the same way that 4,000 Orthodox Under Morsi, the 1979 Camp David Ac- rabbis who lead their communities. non-Orthodox community.” Financing for the rabbis do,” Anat Hoffman, executive director of cords with Israel are likely to come un- The agreement announced Tuesday comes three positions will come from the Culture and Sports the Israel Religious Action Center, said in a letter der review, he predicted. weeks after a panel of Supreme Court judges Ministry as opposed to the Religious Services to supporters. “This historic victory is another “We still don’t know if they will put called on the attorney general to intervene Ministry. The decision is limited to regional step in leveling the playing field.” the treaty to a referendum or push to re- during a hearing on a petition filed more than councils and farming communities, according to She urged supporters to write to Prime Minister negotiate,” Schenker said of the Muslim seven years ago calling for the state to recog- Haaretz, and is not intended for large cities. Benjamin Netanyahu to express their gratitude. Brotherhood. nize and pay the salaries of rabbis of all streams Rabbi Miri Gold of Kibbutz Gezer, who was Popular suspicion of the accords is of Judaism. named in the original petition to the court, on likely to be exacerbated as the two larg- The Israel Religious Action Center of the Israel Tuesday became the first non-Orthodox rabbi to est blocs in parliament, the Muslim Movement for Progressive Judaism, the Reform receive the designation. Brotherhood-aligned Democratic Al- movement in Israel, had filed the petition. Israeli Religious Services Minister Yaakov Margi, liance for Egypt and the Islamist Bloc, The attorney general’s office had opposed the a member of the haredi Orthodox Shas party, aligned with harder-line Salafists, com- request; the settlement was negotiated out of May 31, 2012 The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle page 21 ACT NOW! OFFER ENDS JUNE 30TH! Everything you can fi t in a box

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• Scrapbook Photo Video 40% off with ad • • Slides to Video 50¢ • • Old 33/45 Records to CD $10 • • Web Site Development for all budgets • OLATHE: 109 S MUR-LEN (SW CORNER SANTA FE & MUR-LEN BY PRICE CHOPPPER) • Photo Restorations $15 and up • PRAIRIE VILLAGE: 7510-B STATE LINE RD • Event Video Taping as low as $150 • (SW CORNER 75TH & STATE LINE) • Commercials on CNN, USA, TBS, start at $2 • • HD (Hi-Def) TV Commercial Production • page 22 The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle May 31, 2012 important dates Thursday | May 31 Saturday | June 2 on-route support and SAG stations. The ride begins thing You Wanted to Know about the Tonys.” Tickets and ends at Beth Torah, and the event supports com- are $25; there is a combination ticket for $35 that munity organizations providing services to feed the includes a ticket to the matinee production of “Chi- ‘Visiting Mr. Green’ Comedy Tonight! hungry. You can sign up online at www.prerace.com cago,” a reception immediately following and Ru- The Jewish Community Center presents “Visiting A benefit for The Temple, Congregation B’nai (keyword: Joel) or visit the Beth Torah website for detsky’s evening show. Tickets are available through Mr. Green” at White Theatre on the Jewish Commu- Jehudah. Created by friends Bryan Fogel, who was more details at www.beth-torah.org. 8 a.m. the Central Ticket Office, 816-235-6222. For more nity Campus. This two-person play follows the story raised in a Modern Orthodox home, and Sam Wolf- information, visit www.mtyp.org. 6 p.m. of Mr. Green, an elderly man who is lonely following son, who was “so Reform we were basically Episco- KosherFest his wife’s death and a young man who has buried his palian.” Their humorous look at being Jewish will be Ohev Sholom’s celebration of Jewish food tra- emotions. Fate throws the two together following an showcased through scenes from their off-Broadway Tuesday | June 5 ditions will be held today. Some booths will be accident and what ensues is a poignant relationship. hit “Jewtopia,” interspersed with stand-up comedy Vaad-supervised. In addition to food, there will be Tickets are $14 for members; $20 for non-members; and much more. The cost is $50 per person, which ‘Jumpstart’ Jewish music and dance, a shuk featuring crafts, a and $11 for students (college and under). Discount includes cocktails, desserts and a life and silent auc- Jewish Employment Service’s “Jumpstart” ses- used book sale, children’s play area and more. You pricing is also available for groups of 10 or more. tion. “Jewtopia” will take place at Westin Crown sions give job seekers a road map and quick start on can pre-order KosherFest food items to take home their job search. Jewish Community Campus. RSVP to Additional performances are June 2, 7, 9 and 10. Center. For more information or for tickets, go to by calling 913-642-6460. Admission is $2 for adults [email protected]. Contact JES with questions To purchase tickets, call 913-327-8054 or purchase www.bnaijehudah.org or call the synagogue. 7 p.m. and $1 for children. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. at [email protected] or 913-327-8278. 9-11 online at jcckc.org/boxoffice. More information, visit a.m. www.jcckc.org. 7:30 p.m. Women’s Havdalah mini-retreat ‘The Kings of Cut-Rate’ Thank Rabbi Vered Harris for the inspiration she Contemporary Jewish Issues “The Kings of Cut-Rate” tells the story of Isaac has been throughout her 12 years at Beth Torah. Join Alan Edelman leads this weekly discussion group Friday | June 1 and Michael Katz, who changed forever our defini- on current affairs in Israel and other issues affecting in for a special adult, women-only Havdalah mini- tion of the drug store. Written by Kansas City Star the Kansas City Jewish community. Appleman Syna- retreat: Listen to Our Voices. Dessert will be served. Candle-lighting time reporter and author Brian Burnes, with the help of gogue at Village Shalom. 11 a.m. RSVP to Maureen Salz at [email protected]. 7 p.m. Sivan 11, 8:21 p.m. Steve Katz, the book is rich in photographs, artifacts Marlene Katz Presents and other memorabilia of Katz Drug Stores’ color- ‘Visiting Mr. Green’ “The Lives and Books of Jewish Authors,” includ- Tot Shabbat at B’nai Jehudah ful history. Hear stories about the past from both The Jewish Community Center presents “Visiting ing Arthur Miller, Judy Blume, Danielle Steel, Jodi First Friday of the month, come together in com- authors, and how this landmark made its impact on Picoult and others. Gerson Social Hall at Village Sha- Mr. Green” at White Theatre on the Jewish Commu- munity with the goal of raising children who love Kansas City. Jewish Community Center’s Heritage lom. 2 p.m. nity Campus. Tickets are $14 for members; $20 for celebrating Shabbat. 5:30 p.m., bisseleh nosh and Center. Attendees are invited to a reception imme- non-members; and $11 for students (college and un- Friends Next Dor: Simchat Sh’ah table blessings; 6 p.m., Shalom Pod for a kid-friendly diately following the presentation for a book signing der). Discount pricing is also available for groups of Connect and network with Jewish young profes- service; pot luck dinner at 6:30 p.m. (please bring a and to meet the authors. Books will be available for 10 or more. To purchase tickets, call 913-327-8054 sionals throughout the Kansas City area at a new main dish to serve eight people). For more informa- purchase. This free event is open to the public. Co- or purchase online at jcckc.org/boxoffice. More infor- happy hour series. Tonight, Coach’s Bar & Grill, 9089 tion, call the synagogue office. sponsored by Help@Home, the Heritage Center 65+ W. 135th St., Overland Park. All happy hours begin mation, visit www.jcckc.org. 7:30 p.m. and the Johnson County Library. 2-3 p.m. at 6:30 p.m. Honoring Rabbi Harris Gather at Beth Torah to celebrate, thank and say Sunday | June 3 Seth Rudetsky to perform at UMKC Wednesday | June 6 Shalom to Rabbi Vered Harris. There will be a 6 p.m. Seth Rudetsky will perform at White Recital Hall erev Shabbat nosh honoring Rabbi Harris sponsored Joel’s Ride ‘Wheels for Meals’ on the UMKC campus, 49th and Cherry, in tandem Lunch & Learn by the Beth Torah board of trustees, followed by ser- The 5th annual Joel’s Ride “Wheels for Meals” will with Music Theatre for Young People’s senior show, Join friends at Congregation B’nai Jehudah for vices at 6:30 p.m. Following services, celebrate with take place today. Beth Torah is offering a 10-, 25- or “Chicago.” He will do a comedy show about the a thought-provoking discussion with Rabbi Neal Rabbi Harris and her family at an Oneg. 40-mile ride through Southern Johnson County with Tony Awards called “Seth Rudetsky Tells You Every- Schuster on “The Real Social Justice Issues of the directory of congregations

CONGREGATION BETH ISRAEL ABRAHAM & VOLINER | 9900 Antioch • Overland Park, Kan. 66212 | (Orthodox) | Rabbi Daniel Rockoff | (913) 341-2444 | www.biav.org CONGREGATION BETH SHALOM | 14200 Lamar Ave. • OP, Kan. 66223 | (Conservative) | Rabbi Alan Cohen, Hazzan Robert Menes | (913) 647-7279 | www.bethshalomkc.org CONGREGATION BETH TORAH | 6100 W. 127th St. • OP, Kan. 66209 | (Reform) | Rabbi Mark Levin, Rabbi Vered Harris | (913) 498-2212 | www.beth-torah.org THE TEMPLE, CONGREGATION B’NAI JEHUDAH | 12320 Nall • OP, Kan. 66209 | (Reform) | Rabbi Arthur Nemitoff, Rabbi Alexandria Shuval-Weiner, Cantor Sharon Kohn | (913) 663-4050 | www.bnaijehudah.org CHABAD HOUSE | 6201 Indian Creek Drive • OP, Kan. 66207 (Lubavitch) | Rabbi Sholom Wineberg, Rabbi Mendy Wineberg | (913) 649-4852 | www.chabadkc.org KEHILATH ISRAEL | 10501 Conser • OP, Kan. 66212 | (Traditional) | Rabbi Herbert Mandl, Rabbi Jeffrey Shron, Cantor (913) | 642-1880 | www.kisyn.org CONGREGATION KOL AMI | 7501 Belinder • Prairie Village, Kan. 66208 | (Reform) | Doug Alpert, Spiritual Leader | (913) 642-9000 | www.kolamikc.com THE NEW REFORM TEMPLE | 7100 Main St. • KCMO 64114 | (Reform) | Rabbi Alan Londy | (816) 523-7809 | www.nrtkc.org CONGREGATION OHEV SHOLOM | 5311 W. 75th St. • Prairie Village, Kan. 66208 | (Conservative) Rabbi Scott White | (913) 642-6460 | www.ohev-sholom.com TORAH LEARNING CENTER | 8800 W. 103rd St. • OP, Kan. 66212 | (Lubavitch) | Rabbi Benzion Friedman, Rabbi Simcha Morgenstern | (913) 385-577 TEMPLE ISRAEL | Meets at Congregation Ohev Sholom, 5311 W. 75th St. • Prairie Village, Kan. 66208 | (Reform) Rabbi Jacques Cukierkorn | (913) 940-1011 VILLAGE SHALOM | 5500 W. 123rd St. • OP, Kan. 66209 | (Non-denominational) | (913) 317-2600 | villageshalom.org DOWNTOWN MINYAN | 1102 Grand Blvd., 2nd floor conference room • KCMO 64106 | Mincha services, 5 p.m., Mon.-Thurs., led by volunteers | (816) 471-1060 or (816) 695-3930| e-mail: [email protected] Outside the Kansas City area: TEMPLE ADATH JOSEPH | 102 N. 17th St. • St. Joseph, Mo. 64502 | (Reform) | Aaron Neilsenshultz, Para-rabbinic | (816) 279-3179 TEMPLE BETH SHOLOM | 4200 SW Munson Ave. • Topeka, Kan. 66604 | (Reform) | Rabbi Debbie Stiel | (785) 272-6040 | www.templebethsholomtopeka.org LAWRENCE JEWISH COMMUNITY CONGREGATION | 917 Highland Drive • Lawrence, Kan. 66044 | (Non-denominational) | (785) 841-7636 | www.LawrenceJCC.org May 31, 2012 The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle page 23 important dates org. 1-3 p.m. Circle of Hope bracelets, CDs, books, cards, kosher scrolls and other consignment items) from June ‘Visiting Mr. Green’ 10 through 15. Hours are 10 a.m.-2 p.m. today; The Jewish Community Center presents “Visiting 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday-Friday. Mr. Green” at White Theatre on the Jewish Commu- nity Campus. Tickets are $14 for members; $20 for Hadassah chapter installation non-members; and $11 for students (college and un- The Greater Kansas City Chapter of Hadassah will der). Discount pricing is also available for groups of install Marian Kaplan as its president at a luncheon 10 or more. To purchase tickets, call 913-327-8054 at Kehilath Israel Synagogue. Kaplan will be the first or purchase online at jcckc.org/boxoffice. More infor- nurse to serve as president of the Greater Kansas mation, visit www.jcckc.org. 7:30 p.m. City Chapter since its chartering 99 years ago. For more information, call the Hadassah office at 913- Friday | June 8 381-1664. Invitations are being mailed to all chapter members. 11:30 a.m. Candle-lighting time ‘Visiting Mr. Green’ Sivan 18, 8:25 p.m. The Jewish Community Center presents “Visiting Mr. Green” at White Theatre on the Jewish Commu- Yiddish Circle nity Campus. Tickets are $14 for members; $20 for Don’t miss Ray Davidson’s weekly Yiddish Circle non-members; and $11 for students (college and un- for Learning at Congregation Beth Torah. Includes der). Discount pricing is also available for groups of lunch ($5), stories of yesterday and a bit of Yiddish 10 or more. To purchase tickets, call 913-327-8054 — the language and the culture. Noon-1:30 p.m. or purchase online at jcckc.org/boxoffice. More infor- mation, visit www.jcckc.org. 2 p.m. Erev Shabbat Join Congregation B’nai Jehudah in welcoming Kansas City Mayor Sly James as guest speaker. Bis- Monday | June 11 seleh nosh, 5:30 p.m.; service, 6 p.m. Machane Jehudah Beth Torah Tot Shabbat Congregation B’nai Jehudah’s camp-style alterna- Child-friendly nosh begins at 5:45 p.m. and re- tive religious school will be held June 11-June 22. mains available during the service. Following the The program is open to all Jewish children entering song-filled worship in the Sader-Shimkin Library grades three-five. Enjoy two weeks of innovative Chapel, families stay to schmooze or go to the Jewish learning with talented staff and clergy. For regular 6:30 p.m. congregational service (child- more information, contact Rabbi Alexandria Shuval- care is available) or take the Shabbat feeling home. Weiner, 913-663-4050 or rabbiasw@bnaijehudah. 5:45-6:20 p.m. org or go to www.bnaijehudah.org.

Saturday | June 9 KC SuperStar Semifinals Twenty-five students, representing a cross-section of greater Kansas City, will compete with hopes of ‘Visiting Mr. Green’ being selected for the Finals and becoming the best The Jewish Community Center presents “Visiting singer in the metro area. The Semifinals performance Mr. Green” at White Theatre on the Jewish Commu- will take place at the White Theatre on the Jewish nity Campus. Tickets are $14 for members; $20 for Community Campus. It is free and open to the public. non-members; and $11 for students (college and un- This is your last opportunity to see the competition; der). Discount pricing is also available for groups of the Finals on Aug. 26 has already sold out. 7 p.m. Comic, actor, musician and radio host Seth Rudetsky will perform at White Recital Hall on the 10 or more. To purchase tickets, call 913-327-8054 UMKC campus (49th and Cherry) at 6 p.m. Sunday, June 3, in tandem with Music Theatre for or purchase online at jcckc.org/boxoffice. More infor- Young People’s senior show, ‘Chicago.’ He will be doing a comedy show called ‘Seth Rudetsky mation, visit www.jcckc.org. 7:30 p.m. Tuesday | June 12 Tells You Everything You Wanted to Know about the Tonys.’ Tickets are $25, or $35 for a com- bination ticket that includes both shows and a reception immediately following. Call Central Sunday | June 10 Ayeka workshop for teachers Ticket Office, 816-235-6222. The Jewish Community Center is offering Jewish Day.” Bring your own sack lunch and meet in the Contact the NCJW office at 913-648-0747 to make teachers in the community an opportunity to “spiri- Electronic Recycling Drive Yisrael Pod. Future sessions will be held the first a reservation or for more information. 7 p.m. tually refuel” by participating in a three-week Ayeka Take your used personal equipment, including Wednesday of every other month: Aug. 1, Oct. 3 and workshop beginning today and continuing June 19 computers, cell phones and televisions, to Beth To- Dec. 5. 11:45 a.m.-1 p.m. and 26. The price is $25 for each teacher and $30 Thursday | June 7 rah’s parking lot. Do your part to combat climate for non-teachers. The workshop is limited to 16 par- change while cleaning out your closets and base- NCJW new officers, board ticipants and pre-registration is required by calling Interview Skills ments. Volunteers are still needed to help with this NCJW will honor five women with awards, and 913-327-8000. Noon-1:30 p.m. Jewish Employment Services, a joint program of event. For more information, contact Susan Waxman install the 2012-13 officers and board members Jewish Family services and Jewish Vocational Service, at [email protected]. 9 a.m.-noon. at Prairiebrooke Arts, 7900 Santa Fe in downtown will have Interview Skills Session 1 in the Multi-Activ- Overland Park. The program is free and open to the ity Center at the Jewish Community Campus. Limited B’nai Jehudah Judaica Shop sale community. Reservations are requested by June 1. seating is available, so RSVP to employment@jfskc. All merchandise will be 20-50 percent off (except page 24 The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle May 31, 2012 national and international news Brooklyn D.A.’s shift on sex abuse cases puts him on collision course with Agudah By JTA News & Features Staff police. In some cases, alleged perpetra- tors have enjoyed broad communal sup- NEW YORK — Pressure is growing port, including community fundraising on the Brooklyn district attorney and for their defense, The New York Times the country’s major haredi Orthodox reports made clear. umbrella organization to change the For their part, haredi victims of sex ways they handle allegations of sexual abuse face communal pressure to stay abuse and molestation in the Orthodox silent. Even if they succeed in putting community. a perpetrator behind bars, victims may A series of recent reports by The New be ostracized or stigmatized, viewed by York Jewish Week, the Forward and The their community as tainted. They and New York Times have brought new scru- their children may be shunned as un- tiny to the special program that Brook- worthy partners for marriage. lyn D.A. Charles Hynes established in Hynes’ Kol Tzedek program, by 2009 to handle sex abuse allegations working with community rabbis and among haredi Jews in New York. granting special anonymity to both vic- Under the program, Kol Tzedek, per- tims and perpetrators, was meant to cir- petrators’ names were kept confidential cumvent these problems. and Hynes apparently gave Agudath Is- In an interview last week with the rael of America, the Orthodox umbrella New York Post, Hynes cited the insu- group, the impression that he sanc- larity of Brooklyn’s haredi community tioned the practice of rabbis reviewing D.A. ChArles hynes OffiCiAl Website and the need to protect sex-abuse vic- allegations before they were brought to Brooklyn District Attorney Charles Hynes has warned Agudath Israel’s leaders to advise haredi tims from intimidation as the reason police. Orthodox Jews to speak to police before speaking to rabbis in suspected child abuse cases. for not releasing the names of about 100 A firestorm of controversy has sur- accused molesters from the community. ing it mandatory for rabbis to report ters that could involve non-Jewish au- rounded the program in recent weeks, “Within days, people within this re- sex abuse allegations, and The Jewish thorities or have legal implications. in part due to a pair of front-page sto- lentless community would identify the Week reported that Hynes will create a In an interview with the Forward, ries in The New York Times detailing victims,” he told the Post. “Then the in- new intra-agency task force to deal with Hynes reportedly said that he was in the communal pressure that alleged timidation would start.” haredi sex abuse allegations. “sharp disagreement” with the Agu- victims of sex crimes face in the haredi Hynes’ office has boasted that the The shift comes as David Zwiebel, dah’s position, arguing that the rabbis community. Kol Tzedek program has helped result Agudah’s executive vice president, re- “have no experience or expertise in sex Hynes now appears to be taking in convictions in the haredi community iterated his organization’s position that abuse.” The Forward quoted Hynes as a tougher and more explicit position while other district attorneys have failed sex abuse cases should be reviewed by saying that he stressed his opposition in against the practice of rabbis screen- to bring convictions. But an investiga- rabbis within the community before a telephone call with Zwiebel last week. ing sex abuse allegations. The longtime tion by The Jewish Week showed that they are passed on to the police. It is Zwiebel “still thinks they have a re- D.A. told reporters that he will push many of the 99 prosecutions claimed by not unusual in haredi communities for sponsibility to screen,” Hynes said. “I for New York State to enact a law mak- Hynes’ office in fact predated the Kol members first to consult rabbis on mat- disagree.” Tzedek program. Meanwhile, Hynes spokesman Jerry Two weeks ago, Hynes said he would Obama awards Medal relatives who perished during the Holocaust. Schmetterer told The Jewish Week that chair a new intra-agency task force on Dylan, who changed his last name from Zim- Zwiebel “risks having the rabbi prose- of Freedom to Albright, haredi sex abuse consisting of his of- merman, transformed rock and folk music in cuted for obstructing a law enforcement Dylan, Karski fice’s chief investigator and the heads the 1960s. investigation.” WASHINGTON (JTA) — President Obama of his Sex Crimes and Rackets divi- The shift puts Hynes’ office at odds awarded the Medal of Freedom to Jan Karski, sions, The Jewish Week reported. The Conservative Judaism book with the haredi Orthodox community — Madeleine Albright and Bob Dylan, among task force could involve the New York a problem the Kol Tzedek program was other recipients. bestseller on Amazon Police Department and members of the supposed to solve. Twelve of the 13 recipients received their med- JointMedia News Service — “The Observant anti-abuse advocacy community, Hynes’ Cases against haredi sex abusers face als in a ceremony May 22 at the White House. Life: Ritual and Ethics in Contemporary Juda- spokesman told the newspaper. a host of unique hurdles. Reporting a Israeli President Shimon Peres will receive the ism today,” a book on Conservative Jewish After Zweibel said his group would suspected sexual predator in the com- medal in a separate event next month. religious philosophy, has reached No. 1 on resist increased public pressure to lift munity to the police is seen by many Karski, who died in 2000, was a Polish Amazon.com’s Jewish Life section. its requirement that parents obtain rab- haredim as a hostile act that threatens resistance fighter who was among the first to Written by 30 conservative rabbis, the book dis- binic permission before going to the po- the community, and as a sin — “me- document the Nazi genocide against European cusses how to live a life true to both personal lice, Hynes and the haredim appear to sirah,” turning a fellow Jew over to the Jews. morality and the tenets of the Jewish faith. be on a collision course. secular authorities. Albright, the former secretary of state and U.S. “The Observant Life, with its open and engag- “We’re not going to compromise our Agudah officials reportedly have ambassador to the United Nations, learned ing approach to Jewish Life and practice, is a essence and our integrity because we said that someone who has personally in 1997 from a reporter that her parents hid book that every Jewish home should have,” are nervous about a relationship that experienced or witnessed abuse could her Jewishness from her. She recently wrote said Rabbi Julie Schonfeld, executive vice may be damaged with a government go directly to the authorities, but other a book about her family’s Jewish heritage, president of the Conservative movement’s Rab- leader,” Zweibel told the Forward. allegations should be evaluated by a “Prague Winter,” in which she discusses 25 binical Assembly. rabbi before being passed along to the May 31, 2012 The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle page 25 national and international news Jewish groups, Senate Dems talk Iran and budget

By Ron Kampeas la, spoke of poverty and hunger relief. JTA News & Features Rabbi David Saperstein, the director of the Reform movement’s Religious Ac- WASHINGTON — There was com- tion Center, noted the threats of cuts to mon ground on Iran and preserving the social services. And Jerry Silverman, social safety net at a meeting between the president of Jewish Federations Democratic senators and Jewish com- of North America, also voiced support munity leaders, although subtle ten- for sustaining social services, focusing sions on both issues emerged. particularly on a program that would In the back-and-forth on Capitol Hill, enhance assistance for aging Holocaust the senators pushed back against the survivors. notion that the Obama administration Sens. Carl Levin (D-Mich.) and is not wholly committed to keeping Iran Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) urged the Jew- from acquiring a nuclear bomb. And in a ish groups to make the case for raising refrain familiar to such exchanges, sen- revenue when they lobby for spending. ators urged Jewish groups to lobby not “Sequestration will have a devastat- just for spending but also for tax hikes. ing effect across the board both on social Most of the Jewish organizational service, and foreign and defense spend- speakers at the May 23 event began ing,” Levin said, according to notes from by praising the Senate for passing the one of the meeting’s participants. latest round of Iran sanctions, which “We need help from the other side of would tighten existing bans on dealing the aisle,” Shaheen added. with that country’s energy sector. This is not the first time in these At least 25 senators — just under meetings that Democrats have asked the half the 53-member Democratic caucus community to press harder on raising — attended the meeting convened by revenue. A number of Jewish groups, the Democratic Steering and Outreach William Daroff including the Reform movement, the Committee and led by Sen. Mark Begich Jewish leaders and Democratic senators meeting in the U.S. Capitol on May 23. National Council of Jewish Women and (D-Alaska), who chairs the outreach B’nai B’rith International, advocate for committee. come. Stone had been present May 21 at agreement on how to handle the deficit tax increases, while others are less in- Such meetings take place every year a meeting convened by the White House — would adversely affect defense assis- clined to make the case, seeing it as so to year-and-a-half. Senate Republicans with Jewish leaders in a bid to reassure tance to Israel. Reid is resisting Repub- partisan that it would alienate Republi- once convened similar meetings, but them that the administration was com- lican calls to allow a vote that would by- cans. they have fallen off in recent years. mitted to keeping Iran from obtaining a pass sequestration for defense spending, The meeting also had some light- Seventeen Jewish groups were repre- nuclear weapon. with the majority leader making such a hearted moments. sented at the off-the-record event. JTA Sen. John Kerry (D-Mass.), the chair- vote conditional upon Republicans first Sen. Al Franken (D-Minn.) thanked spoke with seven particpants, three of man of the Foreign Relations Commit- working with Democrats to raise rev- those who attended, and in a sly refer- whom took notes. tee who has acted as a surrogate for the enue sources through taxes. ence to the heavy Jewish representa- Sen. Harry Reid (D-Nev.), the major- Obama administration on foreign policy A number of other speakers also tion in the Democratic caucus — 13 of ity leader and the first senator to speak, issues, said he was closely involved in raised concerns related to potential cuts 53 members — he added, “I’d especially said a nonbinding resolution defining discussions of the Iran matter, and that to federal programs. like to thank my gentile colleagues for an Iranian capability to build a nuclear the Obama administration was ready to Rabbi Steve Gutow, the president of being here.” weapon as a “red line” would soon be act if necessary. the Jewish Council for Public Affairs, passed. The U.S. House of Representa- The concern, he said, was that Israel the community’s public policy umbrel- tives recently passed similar legislation. would act alone. For years the U.S. government “red “There is tension in Iran at the top owner, may have reimbursed his employees line,” signifying an actionable threat, levels of leadership with a group of Mandel returns funds under investigation for giving campaign contributions to the has been Iran’s acquisition of a weapon. people who want Iran to be attacked, campaigns of Mandel and U.S. Rep. Jim WASHINGTON (JTA) — Republican U.S. The moves in Congress aim to bring the who hope it will be attacked by Israel to Renacci (R-Ohio), according to reports last Senate candidate Josh Mandel is returning United States closer to Israel’s red line, enhance Iran’s standing,” Kerry said, week in the New Republic and the Toledo campaign donations under investigation by which is capability. according to notes provided by a par- Blade. federal authorities. Richard Stone, the chairman of the ticipant. “If we must act, we should act Mandel, the state treasurer of Ohio and a Mandel’s spokesman told the Cleveland Jew- Conference of Presidents of Major together.” Jewish Iraq war veteran, is in a battle to ish News on May 24 that Mandel returned American Jewish Organizations, said Michael Kassen, the new president unseat incumbent Democratic Sen. Sherrod $105,000 from 21 donors from Suarez Corp. that while the Obama administration of the American Israel Public Affairs Brown. insisted that it opposed merely “con- Committee, expressed concerns that Industries, a marketing firm. taining” a nuclear Iran, it was not clear sequestration -- the term for Congress’ Benjamin Suarez, the firm’s Canton-based on how it intends to prevent such an out- mandated fund cutting in the absence of page 26 The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle May 31, 2012 national and international news ‘U.N. Me’ documentary makes Borat-style attack on world body

By Ben Harris she will be stoned immediately.” JTA News & Features Earlier in the interview, Horowitz in- forms the ambassador that before learn- NEW YORK — Call it Michael Moore ing of the situation in Darfur, he had meets Sacha Baron Cohen. thought the Janjaweed was a strain of A pro-Israel activist is hoping that his Sudanese marijuana. documentary on the United Nations — Horowitz says he was moved to make to be released nationwide on June 1 — a film about the United Nations after brings focus to what he says is the world watching “Bowling for Columbine,” body’s global ineffectiveness. Moore’s documentary about guns and One of the more rambunctious violence in America. scenes in “U.N. Me” comes from a lull in “I saw his movie and [I thought], if I deliberations at the controversial 2009 want to get my point across, this is the Durban Review Conference in Geneva, best way to do it,” Horowitz said. a parley headlined by Iranian President Financed in part by the conservative Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and boycotted telecommunications executive Howard by Israel, the United States and others Jonas, “U.N. Me” premiered at the In- because of its obsessive focus on the ternational Documentary Film Festival Jewish state. Amsterdam in 2009. Jonas also helped In the clip, an American in a dark suit Frank Publicity Horowitz penetrate the halls of power. Ami Horowitz, director of the film “U.N. Me,” next to a U.N. car in Cote d’Ivoire. and tie mounts the podium and seizes Horowitz screened the film for Dick the microphone. Cheney at the former vice president’s the film is neither liberal nor conserva- Horowitz routinely presents himself “You people should be embarrassed home in Virginia, and for media execu- tive. Indeed, in what may wind up being as a credulous buffoon, eagerly accept- and ashamed,” filmmaker Ami Horow- tives Rupert Murdoch and Roger Ailes a savvy directorial decision, the film ing the assurances of an Iranian official itz announces to the handful of del- in New York. According to Horowitz, never mentions what many consider that his country is not making nuclear egates scattered about the hall. “You Murdoch liked the film and wanted to one of the most egregious examples of weapons and agreeing with U.N. disar- have squandered the opportunity the distribute it, but Ailes warned him that the U.N.’s moral blindspot: a relentless mament chief Sergio Duarte’s assess- world has given you. This is a perverse supporting the film would be tanta- focus on Israel. ment that despite Mahmoud Ahma- example of what it was meant to be.” mount to declaring war on the United Instead, Horowitz keeps the lens dinejad’s repeated hostile declarations The conference already had been Nations. trained on U.N. failures in areas gener- against Israel, the Iranian president’s somewhat of a diplomatic zoo, with Murdoch, Horowitz recalled, replied ally cherished by liberals: peacekeeping true intensions cannot be divined. myriad protesters — a disproportionate that Ailes’ FOX News is already at war and human rights. The routine succeeds, Borat-syle, in number of them Jewish — disrupting with the world body. He travels to the African nation of making several interviewees look silly. the proceedings and causing a ruckus in “The whole idea of the movie is based Cote d’Ivoire, where he reports on a In a segment on the U.N’s failure to stop the hallways. With security heightened, on the idea of activism,” Horowitz said. little-known incident in which a contin- the killings in Darfur, Horowitz asks Su- Horowitz was whisked from the room “I’m not trying to tell an impartial story. gent of French U.N. peacekeepers fired dan’s ambassador to the United Nations within seconds. The only thing I’m responsible for is the on protesters. He interviews Nobel lau- why Sudan stones gays after the first of- But standing in the near-empty press truth. I have no responsibility beyond reate Jody Williams, whose report on fense but lesbians only after the fourth. gallery was Horowitz’s partner, Mat- that. I don’t have to show both sides of Darfur for the U.N. Human Rights Coun- “No, no, no,” the ambassador cor- thew Groff, who captured the incident anything. I have a point of view and I’m cil was nearly blocked by the very body rects him. “Woman, if she is married, on tape (as did JTA). The footage now trying to prove it.” forms the climax of the scathing docu- that commissioned it. And he reviews the details of better-known examples of mentary written, directed and produced Survey: Israel losing The number of those who outright challenge by Groff and Horowitz. U.N. wrongdoing, such as sexual abuse allegations by peacekeepers and the ground with Germans Israel’s right to exist — 13 percent — has Horowitz’s Geneva stunt is a move remained steady. atrocious Oil for Food Programme that BERLIN (JTA) — A new survey suggests that plucked from the playbook of the docu- The survey revealed that 60 percent of Germans served mainly to enrich Saddam Hus- Germans have lost some love for Israel over the mentarian Moore, whose screen perso- feel their country has no particular responsibility sein. past three years. na of the everyman trying to get straight toward Israel 67 years after the end of World “Almost anybody who is a liberal In the poll of 1,002 citizens, 36 percent said they answers from the powerful pervades his War II. Thirty-three percent believed, however, thinks it’s a liberal movie, and every- liked Israel, down from 59 percent in a similar critically acclaimed work in films such that Germany still has a special duty to stand by body who is conservative thinks it’s a survey conducted in January 2009. Also, only 21 as “Bowling for Columbine” and “Roger Israel because of the Holocaust. conservative movie,” Horowitz said. percent believe that Israel cares about human & Me.” On the Palestinians, 65 percent of Germans want “People don’t know [U.N. reform] is a rights, down from 31 percent in the earlier study. But will the left-leaning Moore’s their government to recognize a Palestinian conservative cause.” Seventy percent of those polled May 15-16 said trademark style wow viewers of a docu- state, while 18 percent think now is not the right If Horowitz’s style owes much to that Israel pursues its own interest without mentary taking aim at an organization time for such a move. Moore — a man he describes as his consideration for other peoples — 11 points that has long been a punching bag for The survey was conducted by the Forsa research “friend” — he also acknowledges a debt higher than the ‘09 survey. Fifty-nine percent of the right? institute for Stern magazine ahead of next to another character of the big screen: respondents find Israel to be “aggressive,” up Horowitz, a former investment week’s Middle East visit by German President banker and avowed conservative, says Borat, the fictional and clueless Khazaki from 49 percent in 2009. journalist made famous by Cohen. Joachim Gauck. May 31, 2012 The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle page 27 news in brief Turkish criminal court accepts bis, has not yet decided what that process will be. artillery and tank shells in the village, located near Homs in western indictments against Israeli commanders Tessler acknowledged that the resolution does not help current Syria. At least 300 people also were wounded in the attacks. agunot or women who already are married and may later divorce. The U.N. Security Council in an emergency session on Sunday JERUSALEM (JTA) — A Turkish criminal court accepted indictments The Jewish Orthodox Feminist Alliance praised the resolution. condemned what it called the massacre “in the strongest possible against the four top Israeli commanders who led the 2010 raid on The organization, said JOFA president Judy Heicklen, “looks forward terms,” as well as the killing of civilians by shooting at close range the Gaza-bound Mavi Marmara ship. to the day when all rabbinic organizations do everything in their and by severe physical abuse. İstanbul’s 7th High Criminal Court on Monday unanimously ac- power to resolve the threat of iggun,” the state of being an agunah. The White House in a statement called the attack “a vile testament cepted the indictment submitted last week by a special Turkish Rabbi Shmuel Goldin, president of the 1,000-member Rabbini- to an illegitimate regime that responds to peaceful political protest prosecutor, according to the English-language Turkish news service cal Council of America, also praised the IRF, but said it would be with unspeakable and inhuman brutality.” Today’s Zaman. counterproductive for his organization to mandate use of a halachic The Syrian government blamed “terrorists” for killing the civilians; The 144-page indictment seeks 10 aggravated life jail sentences prenuptial agreement. The New York Times reported that terrorists in this context refers to against former Israeli Defense Forces Chief of Staff Gen. Gabi “Nearly 80 percent of our rabbis encourage this sort of prenup. the opposition. Ashkenazi; Navy commander Vice Adm. Eliezer Marom; military We’re anxious that this number grow, but we believe the best way The U.N. estimates that more than 9,000 people, mostly civilians, intelligence chief Maj.-Gen. Amos Yadlin; and the head of Air Force to do is through continued education,” he said. have been killed in Syria and tens of thousands displaced since the intelligence, Brig. Gen. Avishai Levi. “There are certain people within the organization who, for whatever uprising against President Bashar Assad began some 14 months The soldiers who carried out the raid are expected to be named in a halachic or personal reasons, will not use it. If I mandated it now, ago. separate indictment following an ongoing investigation, according and those rabbis left the organization, the chance they would ever to Zaman. use it would be minimal.” The indictment mentions 10 “slain Turks.” Nine Turkish nationals, The IRF resolution was passed last week during the group’s annual including a Turkish-American man, were killed in clashes during the Swiss supermarket chain conference in New York City. raid. The 10th person is a man who remains in a vegetative state, to label West Bank products The RCA and the Beth Din of America have developed a halachic according to Zaman. The indictment also reportedly refers to 490 (JTA) — A supermarket chain in Switzerland said it will label prenuptial agreement. victims and complainants, including 189 who were reported injured products originating from the West Bank as such instead of as from in the attacks. Israel. Israeli Navy commandos on May 31, 2010 boarded the Mavi Mar- Heroic Israeli mountain climber to receive The wholesaler Migros currently labels such products, ranging from mara, which claimed to be carrying humanitarian aid, after warning medal from Peres potatoes to Soda-Club machines, as coming from Israel. The an- the ship not to sail into waters near the Gaza Strip in circumvention JERUSALEM (JTA) — The Israeli who abandoned his quest to reach nouncement was made on Tuesday. of Israel’s naval blockade of the coastal strip. the summit of Mount Everest to rescue a Turkish climber will receive The new labeling will be introduced in mid-2013, according to World Israel’s government-appointed Turkel Commission found in its inves- Israel’s Presidential Medal of Honor. Radio Switzerland. tigation that the government and the military behaved appropri- Nadav Ben Yehuda, 24, was informed that he will receive the award “We want to ensure transparency, so that the customer can decide ately, and that the blockade of Gaza was legal. next month at President Shimon Peres’ residence in Jerusalem, Ynet if he wants to buy the product or not,” a Migros spokesperson told The United Nations’ Palmer Committee also found the blockade reported. WRS. to be legal but said Israel used excessive force while boarding the Ben Yehuda told Ynet that he does not believe he is of the same The move comes less than two weeks after the South Africa Depart- vessel. caliber as other recipients, who include former U.S. Secretary of ment of Trade and Industry announced that products originating Turkey’s inquiry deemed the Gaza blockade and the Israeli raid to State Henry Kissinger; Judith Feld Carr, a Canadian-Jewish musician from Palestinian-controlled areas of the West Bank will be labeled have been illegal. Ankara has called on Israel for an official apology and human rights activist who helped smuggle thousands of Jews as such, and not as Israeli products. and compensation for the raid, and to lift the Gaza blockade. The out of Syria; and conductor Zubin Mehta. Denmark’s foreign minister also said he plans to allow supermarkets two countries have broken off diplomatic relations and military He carried the injured Turkish climber back to the base camp with- to place a special label on goods originating from West Bank settle- agreements since the incident. out scaling the last 300 yards to the top. He would have become the ments. youngest Israeli to reach the mountain’s summit. Ben Yehuda suffered frostbite in his fingers because he removed his Flame computer bug may have been Rabbinic group requiring gloves to keep a better grip on the injured climber during the rescue. released by Israel, minister says prenuptial agreements He is still in danger of losing some of his fingers, though doctors JERUSALEM (JTA) — A computer virus attacking computers in Iran WASHINGTON (JTA) — An Orthodox rabbinic group is requiring its have removed skin and flesh but no bone, he told Ynet. and the West Bank may have been created with Israeli involvement, members to use a prenuptial agreement in the weddings in which a government minister hinted. they participate. Moshe Ya’alon, Israel’s vice prime minister, said in an interview According to a resolution passed by The International Rabbinic Fel- Netanyahu condemns Syria massacre Tuesday on Israel Radio that “Anyone who sees the Iranian threat as lowship, its member rabbis may not officiate at or participate ritu- a significant threat would be likely to take various steps, including JERUSALEM (JTA) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ally in a wedding ceremony in which the man and woman have not these, to harm it. condemned the “the ongoing massacre” of civilians in Syria. signed a halachic prenuptial stating that if the marriage dissolves, “Israel was blessed as being a country rich with high-tech,” he said. In a statement released Sunday evening, Netanyahu addressed the they will agree to a Jewish divorce. “These tools that we take pride in open up all kinds of opportunities massacre over the weekend in the Syrian village of Houla that left That means the husband must give his wife a get, a Jewish divorce for us.” an estimated 108 civilians dead, including at least 30 children. decree, and the woman must accept it. The discovery of the Flame virus, which is being called “the most Netanyahu expressed his “revulsion over the ongoing massacre The resolution is an effort to prevent future agunot, or chained sophisticated virus of all times,” was announced Monday by the being perpetrated by the forces of Syrian President Bashar Assad women, whose husbands have refused to give them a get, said the Kaspersky Lab in Russia. It was discovered in high concentrations in against innocent civilians, which continued over the weekend in rabbinical group’s president, Rabbi Joel Tessler. Iranian computers and also in the West Bank, Syria and Sudan. Houla and included dozens of innocent children.” Agunot may not remarry in a Jewish ceremony. The virus was created to collect data, and may have lain dormant “Iran and Hezbollah are an inseparable part of the Syrian atrocities “We’re the only rabbinic organization that demands from all of its for several years. It is controlled by a remote computer that can turn and the world needs to act against them,” the prime minister leader members that they can only officiate in a wedding if the couple has the virus on and off at will. was quoted as saying in the statement released by his office. agreed and signed a prenup before the wedding,” Tessler told JTA. The Flame reportedly shares some characteristics with the Stuxnet It is reportedly the first time that Netanyahu has addressed atroci- “There will be a process of censure for any rabbi in the IRF that virus, which damaged Iranian nuclear centrifuges before it was ties in Syria since the uprising in the country began more than a participates in a wedding without these guidelines.” discovered in 2010. Experts believe that it took a sophisticated year ago. The rabbinical group, which represents 150 Modern Orthodox rab- programming team and state resources to create the program. United Nations observers on Saturday confirmed the killings from page 28 The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle May 31, 2012 commentary Torah commentary Ask the rabbi By Rabbi Alan Cohen, Interim Rabbi, Congregation Beth Shalom By Herbert J. Mandl, Kehilath Israel Synagogue Removal of impurity Marriage is sacred in Judaism QUESTION: Is it true that Jewish not marry any divorcee), as long as marriage or matrimonial laws are these individuals have not married from the camp stricter than secular (United States) anyone else in the meantime. In laws or Christian marriage laws. other words, if a couple divorces Naso — Numbers 4:21-7:89 name of the parashah as an acronym and then they marry other individu- for “motzi shem rah” or slanderous talk ANSWER: This is very much als and then those other individuals While many details in the Torah have (“lashon harah”). This is an excellent the case! For example Jewish law, divorce them or die, they may not a mainly physical component, there example of taking the physical ailment both biblical and rabbinical, forbids return in marriage to their original are also those which, while seemingly and understanding it also in a spiritual marriage to in-laws. This concept is mate. This is clearly spelled out in physical in nature, are symbolic of way. actually found in the Torah where, the Torah and is totally permissible something more philosophic or spiri- Such is, perhaps, the case in Naso as generally speaking, one is not al- both in Christianity and in civil law. tual. When, in this week’s portion of well. It is not only the physical purity lowed to marry not only close blood This would be a great rule for the Naso, chapters 5 and 6 describe the of the camp but also its spiritual purity relatives but most in-laws. There “Hollywood set” where so many procedure to keep the camp pure, there — not only keeping disease out but also are a few unusual exceptions. For actors and actresses have chains is certainly an element of the physical inappropriate behavior (both verbal example, one cannot divorce one’s of mates and marriages and then in that description. and physical). So, again, Etz Hayim’s wife to marry her sister. This is con- often will “try it again” and return Health standards were and are very commentary tells us that there is a sidered an unfair marriage rivalry. to their original mate. I call this important, especially when a large Midrash which emphasizes that “the If, however, one’s wife passes away “musical beds,” much like the game number of people live in proximity to expulsion of diseased Israelites is not then one can marry her sister. She of “musical chairs” that we used to each other. It was especially of concern a hygienic measure” only but also one is no longer an in-law or any kind of play as kids. in ancient times since modern conve- of spirit. When the Israelites left Egypt, relative at that point once one’s wife Marriage is one of the most niences were lacking. Diseases and ill- many had become disabled through is deceased. sacred things in Judaism and is to ness can and often did spread quickly. the hard labor of the imposed slavery. In Christianity and in American be taken extremely seriously. One Even in our time, this is a concern. Yet, as they stood at Sinai to receive the law one can marry any in-law as might ask why Christianity, for Cruise ships and airlines employ tech- Torah, they were miraculously healed. long as one is single. Judaism has example, permits such a remarriage niques to make sure that the passen- The Torah tells us that all Israel was felt that marriage is extra sacred to take place if the Bible so specifi- gers are safe while on board and that “standing” at the foot of the mountain, and that bonds of matrimony have cally forbids it. The answer is that no disease is carried off the vessel as which implied that none had physi- to be between totally unrelated indi- almost all Christian groups ignore well. Wherever we dwell, whether for cal impediments. Similarly, they all viduals. Even being an in-law makes the ritual laws of what they call the short or long term periods, we have to “heard” God’s word so no one was such a relationship questionable “Old Testament,” and this is one take proper hygiene into consideration. deaf. They “saw” the lightning, which and unsacred. of such laws. After all, the Torah, You cannot enter a rest room today suggests that no one was blind. Yet, as Another example of such a “sa- which is part of the Christian Bible, without seeing the signs that encourage they distanced themselves from Sinai, credness” in Judaism is seen in a forbids the eating of pork and yet proper hand washing technique. While they grumbled about their hardships law found in the Book of Deuteron- virtually every Christian except usually directed to the restaurant staff, and the trials and tribulations of the omy in our Torah. There it says that for Seventh Day Adventists will eat it is also good advice for anyone. One of wilderness. The miracle was wearing if a couple divorces, of course they pork. Christianity in a legal sense my favorite techniques to help remind off. Spiritual disabilities reappeared. may remarry if they so desire (as “marches to the beat of another us to do this is that the time spent lath- This portion, therefore, is a reminder long as he is not a Cohen who can- drum.” ering and rinsing should be equal to or that we need to keep our “camps” pure exceed the time it takes to recite the al- in all manner. We need to distance our- phabet. To quote from the commentary selves from the behavior and language of the Humash Etz Hayim: “The camp that make us impure. Rather than look Israeli museum to open decided to divide Palestine into a Jewish and of Israel is sacred and must retain its wistfully backward as did the Israel- exhibit on foreign an Arab state. After Arabs objected to the purity.” Our efforts must be to preserve ites and complain about the present, plan, surrounding nations attacked the new the uniqueness of the places in which we should think of our blessings and volunteers in War Jewish state, triggering the War of Indepen- we dwell. how to transport them into the future. of Independence dence. But, as stated above, there is another God is in our midst at all times and our JointMedia News Service — Beit Hatfut- Most of the Jewish foreigners who volun- dimension as well to this “camp pu- behavior should always reflect this. sot, the “Museum of the Jewish People” in teered to fight in the war on behalf of Israel rity.” There are times when the physi- Shabbat Shalom. Tel Aviv, announced the opening of a new were from English-speaking countries and cal are also metaphors for the spiritual exhibition focusing on Jewish volunteers from significantly contributed to naval, medical, — we know the traditional rabbinic around the world in Israel’s 1948 War of Inde- infantry, tank, and artillery operations. They interpretation on Leviticus 14 (para- pendence. The exhibition will open on June 1. were known as “Machalniks” — 4,500 shat M’tzora) that explains the Hebrew In November 1947, the UN General Assembly volunteered and 123 were killed. May 31, 2012 The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle page 29 commentary Collaborating and putting the joy in Judaism By Todd Stettner years ago — under Bob Grant’s lead- gram development and enhancements -will create new adult learning oppor- Special to ership of the JCC and Bill Carr’s of are under way. tunities, enhance Jewish aspects of The Chronicle the Federation — when our respective The programs we are collaborating cultural arts so we will not just have a officers first convened to discuss the on include those for children, families play or musical with hints of Jewish Last week I ad- possibility of closer ties. After the first and adults. They compose an informal themes but will have programming dressed the An- meeting, we kind of shook our heads Jewish education, culture and identity built around it, including, for example, nual Meeting of the and said okay — so now what? We had building platform which I believe is a “Jewish Mother Month” coinciding Jewish Community not really followed Covey principals not to be found anywhere else in the with the show “Gypsy.” I could go on Center to talk about and thought of what was the “end in country at this moment. Yes, there are but it is just enough to tease you and a new collaborative mind.” Today under Gary Weinberg’s Federations that now operate JCC’s ask you to stay tuned. “Jewish Life and Learning” program leadership of the JCC and Miriam and JCC’s and Federations that have I want to thank my partner in this, between Federation and the Jewish Scharf’s leadership of the Federation merged. Most of these situations have Jacob Schrieber, who has had the vi- Community Center. I would like to the staffs and volunteers of our two been structural changes driven by sion and the desire to put more Jewish share these remarks with you so you agencies understand the goal and are scarcer financial resources. Few are in the “J” and his volunteer leadership can understand what we are doing as moving a powerful agenda forward. motivated beyond the financial reason starting with Gary Weinberg who has well. I believe it is a model for other A collaborative lay team with Cindy to look at how effectively they are deliv- provided the muscle to do it. Together communities to emulate. Bodker and Mark Eisemann as the ering programming to their community we can go from strength to strength and When at conferences with other Jew- chairs will help oversee and review this and can they make it better, not just enhance informal Jewish learning and ish communities around the country, I process. more cost effective. I believe ultimately as I have often heard Jacob say — put often share with people how lucky I feel As our staffs met to determine what we are going to do both and will have a the joy in Judaism! about being the CEO of the Federation should and could be accomplished, the better product. in Kansas City. If any of you have ever logical starting point was Jewish educa- In the coming months you are going Todd Stettner is executive vice-president and chief execu- lived in other Jewish communities, you tion, identity and cultural arts. to see us make more extensive use of tive officer of the Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City. would be hard pressed to find a com- Both our institutions have strong pro- the PJ Library program, including a This article originally appeared on the Jewish Federation munity with the kinds of institutional fessional leadership in these areas and first time young family Shabbaton. We e-blast and website. relationships we have in KC. Whether as we both went through a strategic re- it is the Jewish Funders Council where view of the future of our programs, our the Jewish Federation, Jewish Com- ideas took shape. A work team guided Letter to the editor munity Foundation, Menorah Legacy from JCC staff headed by Jill Maidoff and Jewish Heritage Foundations and another representing Federation’s Hearty mazel tovs Jehudah is fortunate to have a person come together; or agencies that share a CAJE staff headed by Alan Edelman of Michael’s fortitude and I wish him program and staff as is the case of our have been working hard for several After nearly 25 years here in Cincin- and the Temple many more years of Jewish Employment Service (where months to find common grounds where nati, I recently decided I should be active involvement. Jewish Family Service and Jewish we can work together and expand the receiving The Chronicle and stay in Vocational Service have partnered to quality of what each other is doing. We touch with my hometown. In the just Sam Kocherov bring jobs to our Jewish unemployed); also knew that the combined Jewish few weeks I have received issues, unfor- Blue Ash, Ohio or the Rabbinical Association that joint- educational and community experience tunately several of my acquaintances ly programs around specific holidays of Jill and Alan, which is extensive and have appeared in the obituary columns. together — we are a community that deep, placed the project in good hands. On a happier note, it has been a Voice your tends not to let institutional barriers This joint effort was not easy at first, pleasure reading about my cousin get in our way. We are lucky in Kan- what we are doing is almost akin to Elana Nemitoff’s admission to the HUC opinion sas City to have a culture that strives a merger; we had different cultures, rabbinical program and the additional towards cooperation and collaboration turf to protect, egos to contend with, We welcome letters to nachas that my fourth-year student the editor for publication. In fact, I just came from a meeting but in the end, after spending a great rabbi granddaughter was one of her Letters must include the today where we attempted to define that deal of time together, we have a very interviewers. Mazel tov to the entire word — collaboration. To paraphrase good working staff group. Now let me Nemitoff family. writer’s full name, address one of the meeting participants — col- be clear — not all programs will be In the latest issue I received (May 17), and daytime phone num- laboration is about “all sides having done together in these areas but all on the front page was a photograph and ber or email address. Let- skin in the game… jointly risking one’s programs will be open to input from inspiring story of my last employer in ters are edited for content, reputation…sharing resources, plan- the other side. There will still be some Kansas City, Michael Klein. I was well style and space. Send your ning and working together to accom- programs that are the JCC’s and others aware of Michael’s contributions to letters to Editor, Kansas plish mutually agreed upon goals.” that are just CAJE but more and more the local community and I certainly City Jewish Chronicle, 4210 This new venture that the JCC and you will see and feel the impact of each enjoyed the time I was in his employ Shawnee Mission Parkway, the Federation are embarking upon is organization on the other. and my personal involvement in several Suite 314A, Fairway, Kan. doing just that. We are learning what For the first time joint grants have projects while under his direction. I am 66205 or email chronicle@ it really means to play well in our com- been proposed to funders, which we happy he is being recognized and offer metromediapublishers.com. munity sandbox. hope will soon see positive results, my personal mazel tov as well. This process actually began four staffs are meeting regularly and pro- The Temple, Congregation B’nai page 30 The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle May 31, 2012 obituaries IDA ROSE LUKE ‘SKIPPER’ FEINGOLD Beth Shalom. overseas. While Leo was in the Europe- For the last 10 years of her life, Skip- Skipper was born on June 20, 1919, an Theatre of Operation, Skipper went per was an active resident of Village Skipper Feingold was a fixture in the to David and Sarah Saferstein Luke in to New York to get her master’s degree Shalom and participated in many pro- Kansas City educational community for Kansas City, Mo. From an early age she in literature from Columbia University. grams. She began and taught a course most of her 92 years. She passed away displayed a propensity for teaching and At the end of World War II she had her in the Yiddish language, and did several peacefully at home on Monday, May 28, made it her life’s passion. degree and a husband as well. seminars on puzzle solving, all of which 2012. She began teaching Sunday School at Beginning in the late 1940s, Skipper were thoroughly enjoyed by her fellow Funeral Beth Shalom synagogue when she was began 40 years with the Jewish Com- residents. Just recently she was the services were 15 years old. That began a career with munity Center as a camp director. She first resident to write a blog that shared to be held the synagogue that spanned 66 years, helped develop Camp JeCoCe (an acro- many important aspects of her life. Wednesday, including head teacher for more than nym she coined taking the first two let- Skipper was a positive and forceful May 30, at the 25 years. Her work there greatly influ- ters from Jewish Community Center), influence on the entire community and Jewish Com- enced the religious education and lives Funtime, Barney Goodman Camp, Skip- countless people benefited from her love munity Cen- of many families. per’s Headquarters and Adventureland. and devotion to education. ter Campus A graduate of Central High School at Thousands of children learned to swim, She was predeceased by her parents; in the Lewis the age of 16, she went on to get her de- dive, play sports and just have fun under her husband of 65 years, Leo; brother and Shirley gree in education from the Kansas City her direction. Yudell and sister-in-law LaVerne Luke; White The- Teacher’s College and upon graduation Skipper was an authority on early and granddaughter, Blakely Kay. atre, with went to work in the Kansas City, Mis- childhood development and authored She is survived by her sister and burial at souri Public School System at Switzer five books, which she used when she brother-in-law, Zelda and Andy Reiz; her Mount Carm- School. taught courses at Kansas City Kansas children, Anita and Chas Goldsmith, el Cemetery. During the Passover holiday in the Community College and Avila Universi- Bari and Ed Pollyea, David Feingold and The family would suggest contributions spring of 1942 she attended a party for ty, and at the many workshops she con- Trudi Galblum, Buzzah and Lisa Fein- to either Village Shalom, the Heritage servicemen stationed at Fort Riley, Kan. ducted both locally and throughout the Center Art Department of the Jewish There, she met Leo with whom she had country. She helped start the HeadStart Community Center or Congregation three dates before he was transferred program in Kansas City, Kan. see Obituaries, page 31

Zvi Aharoni, 91, Israeli spy Aharoni’s son, Dr. Amram Aharoni, told an Israeli fellow Benny writers during that period. camp, as a member of the Combined Jewish Ap- who first spotted Eichmann newspaper that his father also was involved in Gordon received seven other Emmy nominations peal, as the author of two books and the head the identification of the Nazi Dr. Josef Mengele and wrote for “The Smothers Brothers Comedy of the United Way’s chiropractic division. The Zvi Aharoni, a member of the Israeli spy team in the Brazilian jungles and in the failed at- Hour,” “The Flip Wilson Show,” “The Carol ceremony went ahead four days after his death. that captured Nazi Adolf Eichmann in Argentina tempts to capture him. Burnett Show,” “That’s My Mama,” “Three’s in 1960 and then brought him to Jerusalem for Aharoni was born Hermann Arendt in Frankfurt, Company” and other shows. trial, died at 91 in England, where he had lived Nazi war criminal Klaas Carel Germany, in 1921, and immigrated to Palestine He was born in Akron, Ohio, and moved with for 24 years. Faber dies in Germany as a child. He served in the British army and his family to the Bronx section of New York as “I saw him about two o’clock in the afternoon,” JERUSALEM (JT)A — Klaas Carel Faber died in then joined the Mossad, Israel’s secret service. a child. Aharoni wrote in his memoir of the event, “Op- Germany, where he fled after being convicted of eration Eichmann.” “... I saw a man of medium war crimes in the Netherlands. size and build, about fifty years old, with a high Al Gordon, Emmy-winning Richard Tapper, 35, chiroprac- Faber, who was No. 3 on the Simon Wiesenthal forehead and partially bald, collecting the wash- comedy writer, 89 tor and community leader Center’s list of most wanted Nazi criminals, was ing.” Aharoni felt certain it was Eichmann. Al Gordon, who parlayed a chance wartime The death of Richard Tapper, a family man, 90 when he died on May 24 in a hospital in Aharoni and other members of the Eichmann meeting with an entertainment troupe into an passionate hockey fan and community leader Bavaria, The Associated Press reported. team feuded in the years afterward in dueling Emmy Award-winning career as a writer for Jack committed to good works, has made an impact Faber fled to Germany in 1952 after being memoirs and interviews over which of them Benny, the Smothers Brothers and many others, on his hometown of Winnipeg, Canada. Tapper, convicted in a Dutch court five years earlier of was the most responsible for the Nazi’s capture, died May 23 at 89. a chiropractor and prominent figure in the west- involvement in the murder of 22 people, includ- and which of them received too much (or not As told to the Los Angeles Times by his son, Neil, ern Canadian city’s Jewish community, died at ing six at the Westerbork Nazi transit camp, and enough) credit. While some accounts do say Gordon was in the Army Air Forces on a small 35 on May 19, less than five months after being of helping the Nazis during World War II. His Aharoni was not sufficiently credited for his island in the Azores during World War II when diagnosed with cancer. death sentence was later commuted to life in work, virtually all agreed that he was the first to a plane carrying an Army entertainment unit He left behind a young family and many friends prison. spot Eichmann. landed there with engine trouble. He later kib- who have expressed their sadness about his In May 2011, a German court would not ex- In a 2010 interview on the occasion of the 50th itzed with the troupe’s writers as they worked passing. tradite Faber because his consent as a German anniversary of Eichmann’s capture, team mem- on jokes for an upcoming show while waiting A local newspaper wrote that “Richard Tapper citizen was required and he refused. A Dutch ber Rafael Eitan, the operation’s commander for repairs. After the war, one of the writers was one of those golden young men, blessed request to have him jailed in Germany in 2004 and later a prominent Israeli politician, said that remembered him and asked him to join them in with a lovely family, a successful career, a com- also failed. “The greatest contribution was by Zvi Aharoni. Hollywood “and write radio shows.” munity to which he was deeply committed and He found Eichmann and infused us all with the Shortly after he teamed with Hal Goldman and a sense of joy that spilled over into every aspect passion of the historic importance of bring- pitched a sketch to Jack Benny for his “valet” of his life.” ing him to trial. Without people like Aharoni, character, Rochester. They joined Benny’s staff in Tapper had been set to receive the Winnipeg it would not have succeeded. He was the one 1950, just as the show moved to TV, and stayed Jewish Federation’s Harry Silverberg Young who was smart enough to find the place where with him for more than two decades. Gordon Leader of Distinction Award for his volunteer Eichmann was hiding.” and Goldman shared two Emmy Awards with work in the Jewish community, in school, at May 31, 2012 The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle page 31 obituaries from page 30 Larry Granat, Seattle, Arlene and Jeff daughter-in-law, Kenneth and Jesslynn was also a SuperNana to Kelley and Misler, Overland Park; brothers and sis- Kars, Lincoln, Calif.; daughter and son- Kurt’s two children, Gracie and Jack. gold and Micah Feingold and his partner ters-in-law, Jack and Betty Rosenthal, in-law, Kitty and Hal Novicoff, Overland Cindy Laufer. Skipper also leaves her Bethesda, Md., Stanley and Zelda Rosen- Park; grandchildren, Michael Novicoff grandchildren, Tara and Cory Elbaum, thal and Jerry and Micheline Rosenthal, (Jodi), Todd Novicoff (Emily), Mindi Marisa and Mickey Cavuoti, Matthew all of Silver Spring; sisters-in-law, Ann Squire (Jamie), Tarynn Kars, Taylor and Lauren Goldsmith, Dan and Jessica Rosenthal and Mary Rosenthal, both of Kars and Molly Kars; great-grandchil- Tablet dedication Pollyea, Sarah Pollyea and her partner Bethesda; grandchildren, Stefanie Wil- dren, Jake, Zachary, Ariana, Mandy, Josh Henry, Andrea and Ilan Napchan, liams (Ryan), Amy Senese (Dan), Jill Mallory, Sammi Jo and Drew. In memory of Rose osman Erika and Javier Velasquez, Chad and Confeld (Steven), Lainie Belcher (Chip), The family would like to thank Vil- and LeonaRd osman at 9 a.m. Kim Feingold, Zac and Jessica Feingold, and David Misler; great-grandchildren, lage Shalom for their kindness and love Sunday, June 10, at Kehilath Israel Emily Feingold, Carly and Mark Hus- Miles Misler, Ayla Williams, Cole Sen- they showed our mom “Mema.” Synagogue. tvedt, Jamie and Steve Murphy, Adam ese, Lila Senese, Joshua Confeld, Amos Online guest book is available at Galblum, Caite and Brian Gilmore, and Williams and Ruby Belcher. www.louismemorialchapel.com. Suzanne Galblum and fiancé Austin Online guest book is available at Arr: The Louis Memorial Chapel, Dicken. Great grandchildren are Mia, www.louismemorialchapel.com. 816-361-5211. Avi, Marley, Nate, Eliza, Sadie, Leo, Tes- Arr: The Louis Memorial Chapel, sa, Ada, Lila, Max, Levi and Zoe. 816-361-5211. The family would like to give a spe- HANNAH SIEGEL Unveilings cial thanks to her caring physician, Dr. Hannah (Mednikoff) Siegel passed Donald Cohen, and her friends, com- ROSALIE (MARGOLIN) KARS In memory of samueL TiLzeR away peacefully on Sunday, May 27, at panions and caregivers, Shirley Logan at 10 a.m. Sunday, June 3, at Mount Rosalie (Margolin) Kars, 95, of Over- Village Shalom. She was 91 years old. and Teresa Rodriguez, Pat Newson, Re- Carmel Cemetery. nee DonCarlos and the other wonderful land Park, passed away Friday, May 25, Funeral services were to be held caregivers at Enhanced Home Care. 2012, at Menorah Medical Center. Thursday, May 31, in New Jersey. Do- In memory of LeonaRd os- Online guestbook is available at Funeral services were held Tuesday, nations can be made to Village Sha- man at 10:30 a.m. Sunday, June 10, www.louismemorialchapel.com. May 29, at The Louis Memorial Chapel, lom, Congregation Beth Shalom, Herzl at Mount Carmel Cemetery. Arr: The Louis Memorial Chapel, with burial at Kehilath Israel Blue Ridge Camp, or a charity of the donor’s choice. Cemetery. The family suggests contri- Mrs. Siegel was born in New York 816-361-5211. In memory of Benjamin B. butions to The Rose Family Birthday and lived there until moving to Overland Love and teach, life’s true endeavors enTine on Sunday, June 10, at KI Fund at Village Shalom, 5500 W. 123rd Park in 1996 to be closer to her children Your lessons learned, we will remem- Blue Ridge Cemetery. For time, call St., Overland Park, KS 66209. and grandchildren. Her family was the ber. 913-901-9181. Rosalie was born in Kansas City, the love of her life; she was a beloved moth- daughter of Jacob and Rebecca (Cohn) er, grandmother, great-grandmother, JEANETTE HARRISON Margolin, and was a lifelong area resi- aunt, cousin and friend who never knew dent. She was a graduate of Central the word “no.” Mrs. Siegel was a world Jeanette Harrison, 91, of Silver High School, after which she met the traveler, an avid knitter and a wonder- Spring, Md., passed away Friday, May love of her life, Joseph Kars, and they ful cook. 25, 2012, at Village Shalom. were married for 64 wonderful years. She is preceded in death by her lov- KC Graveside She lived most of her life in Kansas ing husband of 52 years, Paul, as well as services were City until moving to Las Vegas for re- her parents and two siblings. held Tuesday, tirement. They then returned to live She is survived by her daughter and MONUMENT May 29, at again in Kansas City in 1998. son-in-law, Helene and Bernie Fried, Mount Leba- Rosalie was a lifelong member of Ke- Overland Park; and her son and daugh- COMPANY non Ceme- hilath Israel Synagogue and its Sister- ter-in-law, Mark Siegel and Sandy Bar- tery, Adelphi, hood, of which she was past president. nett, Evergreen, Colo. Nana Hannah 42512JL22XX Md. The fam- She was also a life member of Hadassah, also leaves behind five grandchildren, ily suggests member of B’nai B’rith Women, the Me- Kelley Cowman and her husband Kurt, 1c x 2” contributions norah Medical Center Auxiliary and the Olathe, Alix Fried, Chicago, and Maya to United Meadowbrook Country Club. Rosalie and Julia Siegel, Evergreen. Hannah Synagogue loved to play bridge, tennis and golf. Youth, c/o She is the last surviving member of Congregation the original Nautilus Sorority. Beth Shalom, Rosalie was a great cook. Her spe- 14200 Lamar, Overland Park, KS 66223. cialty was baking the families favorites. Louis Memorial Mrs. Harrison was born in Washing- Life was her focus. She loved all of life’s ton, D.C., the daughter of Louis and Ida activities and being with family and Rosenthal. friends who greatly loved her and will Chapel She was preceded in death by her miss her dearly. husbands, Sam Nadler and Harry Har- She was preceded in death by her par- rison; and her brothers, Robert and Wil- 42512JL46 ents; her husband, Joseph Kars in 2002; liam Rosenthal. her two brothers, Abe and Nate Margo- Mrs. Harrison is survived by her lin; and her one sister, Dena Levine. 2c x 2” daughters and sons-in-law, Linda and Rosalie is survived by her son and page 32 The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle May 31, 2012

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