As we close out 2025, it’s time to reflect on the year that was and plan for the new year. The team at Jewish Family Services is grateful for the support the agency has received allowing staff to serve the community.
After watching part of the funeral of Matilda, the 10-year-old girl murdered by terrorists in the Hanukkah Massacre on Bondi Beach, Australia, I cannot stop thinking about the hate speech that led to it.
Spotify offers a feature at the end of every year called “Spotify Wrapped,” which summarizes the user’s listening habits and usage statistics.
“The daycare has added a new bomb shelter inside the infant room,” my daughter told me as she described the center she has decided to use for her daughter.
I was very disappointed to read of the local rabbis who signed a letter condemning now-New York Mayor-Elect Zohran Mamdani and particularly of the remarks of one of the rabbis suggesting that opposing Israel is indistinguishable from antisemitism.
Gilli, our firstborn son, was fortunate to receive his K–12 education at the Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy. Jeff and I committed to providing our children with a Jewish education, and in Kansas City we hit the jackpot with a pluralistic day school five minutes from our house.
On occasion, something happens or is experienced that could benefit the community if shared.
There are times when a place becomes more than just a physical space. It becomes a living, breathing entity.
Sonia Warshawski, who I didn’t meet until the early 2000s, is one of the most important people in my life.
When my husband, John Lorei, and I joined a September American Jewish Committee (AJC) Project Interchange Board Delegation Trip to Israel, we did not anticipate the impact of this firsthand immersion.
