Harry Friedman

BERKLEY FAMILY TO BE HONORED — On Wednesday, May 3, the AdHoc Group Against Crime will celebrate the 40th anniversary of its founding by former Mayor Pro-Tem and advocate for the underserved, Alvin Brooks, at the Eighth Annual Community Guardian Awards.

Jonathan S. Tobin

It is universally accepted that if you get two Jews in the same room, you’re going to hear three opinions. At the same time, though, there has existed a commitment to matching passion about serious issues with respect and discipline so that those who disagree can live with dignity within the same community. The Talmud records numerous disagreements between the sages Shammai and Hillel, describing them as disagreements for the sake of heaven.

The Anti-Defamation League of Missouri/Southern Illinois joined last week with Americans United for Separation of Church and State St. Louis Chapter to express profound disappointment at Gov. Eric Greitens’ recent directive to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources allowing religious organizations to apply for and receive DNR grants.

Marissa Wolf

For those that are tired of the same old things on television, or fed up of the sequels and remakes at the local Cineplex, Kansas City Repertory Theatre is offering an alternative with the OriginKC: New Works Festival, part of the Rep’s new works program. OriginKC: New Works Festival will feature two world premiere productions in rotating repertory from April 28 to May 28 at the Copaken Stage, including “What Would Crazy Horse Do?” by Larissa FastHorse, and “Man in Love” by Christina Anderson.

Several events in the local Jewish community and Topeka are scheduled in the next few weeks to commemorate the Holocaust. All programs listed below are free and open to the public and appropriate for children 13 and older.