The Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City announces three upcoming events that will provide an opportunity for all members of the Kansas City community to celebrate together, in honor of Israel. All three events are sponsored by the Israel Committee of the Jewish Federation.
“In light of recent events, Yom HaZikaron, Yom HaAtzmaut and Lag b’Omer will be even more important this year, as they will provide opportunities for Kansas City to celebrate together and to honor the fallen together,” said Yahav Barnea, Israel emissary to Kansas City.
Yom HaZikaron
Join us Sunday, May 4, from 7 to 9 p.m., at this meaningful Israeli-style ceremony, honoring the lives of those who have fallen in Israel, followed by an insightful Q & A session with IDF Officer Moran Omer.
“Just as we recently attended the interfaith memorial service at the White Theatre to honor the lives of the three shooting victims, Yom HaZikaron is an incredibly important memorial holiday for the many who die each year in Israel — defending our country, or as a result of senseless terrorist attacks. I think this year’s ceremony will have additional meaning to Kansas Citians, and I welcome people of all faiths to join us that evening,” Barnea said.
“In Israel, on Yom HaZikaron, the entire country stops for one collective moment of silence,” continued Barnea. “The K.C. ceremony gives all Israelis and Americans that same experience of grieving together.”
Yom HaZikaron is free and open to the community. It will take place at the White Theatre. Visit jewishkansascity.org/yomhazikaron2014 for more information.
Yom HaAtzmaut
After we honor those who have given their lives to uphold Israel, the Israel Committee invites you to join them in celebration! This truly community-wide event, which takes place from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 6, has much to offer.
“Just as we mourn during Yom HaZikaron, we come together to celebrate life and the strength of Israel and Jewish community in the Diaspora on Yom HaAtzmaut,” said Barnea. “I think many of us are already looking forward to celebrating with family and friends on May 6.”
Whether you enjoy the food, the live entertainment, or some Israeli-style fun, there is something for all ages at this year’s Yom HaAtzmaut event. With live entertainment from the Tizmoret Orchestra, HBHA choir and the JCC’s Encore Dance Troupe, Israeli food by Steve Ellenberg, and kids’ activities, including Israeli tourist photos, crafts and Sifryat Pajama (Israeli style PJ Library), there will be a great deal to celebrate that evening.
The event is free and open to the community; food by Steve Ellenberg is available for a nominal fee. The event will take place at the Jewish Community Campus. Go to jewishkansascity.org/yomhaatzmaut2014 for more information.
Lag b’Omer
The Jewish Federation, in partnership with K.I. Synagogue, will present one final Israeli style celebration from 4 to 9 p.m. Sunday, May 18, at Gezer Park, 133rd Street and Mission Road. The Lag b’Omer concert will feature Sam Glaser in concert at 6:30 pm.
Sam Glaser is a composer and performer who, according to Moment Magazine, is one of the top 10 Jewish artists in the United States. He performs for fans around the world and has produced several albums.
In addition to the concert, Vaad Kosher BBQ and S’mores will be available for a nominal fee, plus families can enjoy the Gezer Park pond and playground, stories around the fire pit, kids’ activities and more. This event is free and open to the community. Lag b’Omer event is brought to you by Jewish Federation. Concert sponsored by the Lucy & Sam Gould Charitable Fund for Kehilath Israel Synagogue, in collaboration with Jewish Federation. Go to jewishkansascity.org/lagbomer2014 for more information.
In case of inclement weather, the 6:30 p.m. concert will take place at K.I. Synagogue. All other outdoor activities will be canceled.
