A lack of understanding

I’m responding to Marc Birnbaum’s views in his letter in the Aug. 23 issue of The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle.

First, I would like to address Mr. Birnbaum’s response to why he would be voting for the Romney/Ryan ticket. I can well see why he would be attracted to candidate Romney. Mr. Birnbaum obviously has little respect for women, and would rather support a candidate who will “prostitute” himself to say and do anything to get elected.

If Mr. Birnbaum gauges Gloria Schlossenberg’s opinion as being one that is full of hate, I wonder how he would define love? He demonstrates an example of someone lacking clear understanding and compassion. He truly owes Mrs. Schloessenberg an apology.

Regarding Mr. Birnbaum’s appreciation for the Koch Brothers, and their supposed support of cancer research facilities, I wonder if Mr. Birnbaum ever considered the huge tax write-off they realize when they make such donations? Their “generous” donations are no more than additional deductions on their taxes. I don’t believe the Koch Brothers do anything out of the “goodness of their hearts.” Everything is done to facilitate their own good. It’s rather ironic they would support cancer research, in view of the vast amounts of carcinogens their many industries pump into the environment.

Mr. Birnbaum is either foolish, naive, greedy, lacking any humanity or any or all of the aforementioned words I have used to describe him.

Carole Plesser
Prairie Village, Kan.

Great day!

I just participated in my first “Day of Discovery” at the Jewish Community Campus. The only way I could figure out how to properly thank the many organizations, volunteers, lay-leaders and presenters who put forth such a fantastic program was through the Jewish Chronicle!

They offered such an extensive variety of wonderful programs and a well-organized and delicious lunch. The layout of the Jewish Community Campus’ building seemed to easily accommodate everyone’s needs. I loved seeing folks of all ages walking around with smiling faces and eager to hear the next speaker. The time went so fast (8:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.).

Thank you one and all. I’ve never felt more proud and I look forward to next years’ program. And for the first time in my life, I got to make and take home two small challahs! A job well-done!

Marilyn Hoffman
Overland Park, Kan.

Todah rabah

Thank you for your coverage of the 7th Annual Bike 4 the Brain, an event for mental health. I want thank those in our community who have provided ongoing and generous support over these past seven years. They have helped B4B in the effort to increase awareness that mental illness is real, common  and treatable when it is recognized and addressed. I hope others will join in solidarity at Bike 4 the Brain by registering online at bike4thebrain.org or from 7 to 8 a.m. on Labor Day, Sept. 3, at 6000 Lamar.

Ken Sonnenschein, M.D.
Bike 4 the Brain Founder and Chair