Disappointing event coverage

Since coming to Kansas City over 35 years ago, I have been an avid reader of the Kansas City Jewish Chronicle, which I respected for its insightful and accurate reporting on Jewish issues both local and world-wide. For the past six weeks the Chronicle has continued its downward slide and reached its all-time low with your devoting two full pages, including the entire front page, promoting the great Jewish sport of hot air ballooning. With all the critical and important issues facing American and world Jewry, hot air ballooning must rank at the bottom of the list.
This past week my wife and I attended a telecast at a local movie house of the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra led by Zubin Mehta with the participation of two of the hottest stars in opera — Rene Flemming and the Maltese tenor sensation Joseph Calleja.
The Israel Philharmonic Orchestra is one of the top orchestras in the world and the concert was outstanding and very enjoyable. It was also heartwarming to see some members of the orchestra wearing kippot and one even had payot.
It is not every day that Kansas City has the opportunity to see, hear and support this orchestra. Yet the so called Kansas City “Jewish Chronicle” did not write one word to alert its readers about this unique and rare event.
The program also included an excellent short movie narrated by Ed Asner on Richard Tucker the great American-Jewish opera tenor and cantor.

Solomon Batnitzky, M.D.
Professor Emeritus,
University of Kansas
Medical Center

A real mensch

I enjoyed Sally Beyers’ article this past week (View from the Village, July 28), especially the part about Ben Schanzer and his son Gary. I remember Ben when I was in high school (1945-1948). At that time it was not uncommon for many of us Jewish kids to have part-time jobs selling shoes at Baker’s Shoe Store downtown. Ben was the manager and always treated us like “menschen” — which was unusual since most managers with similar jobs at shoe stores were known to be difficult to work for. But not Ben. He was a very nice person and I’m sure still is, which is probably one of the reasons he’s lived a long and happy life. And based on what Sally wrote about Gary, it appears the acorn hasn’t fallen far from the tree.

Marvin Fremerman
Ridgedale, Mo.

Superb service

I recently placed a large order with the kosher deli department at the Hen House Market (11751 Roe Ave.). I gave the order to Binyomin Mazer, the mashgiach of the kosher department. I called it in from out of town, with little lead time and many, many requests. Our order was filled accurately, ready on time and every one of my nudnical requests was met and more. They anticipated our needs regarding packaging and just took care of them!
Binyomin had only been in his position for two to three weeks, having just replaced Rabbi Mendel Segal, who is now the executive director of the VAAD HaKashruth. Phil Braverman and David Staton are also integral members of the staff and were extremely helpful as well. I recognize the stress under which I put these men and appreciate not only their competency and professionalism, but also their good nature and patience. We “remembered the good old days” together.
I would recommend the kosher deli at the Hen House — food, service, ability, graciousness, client attitude, etc… etc…. to all. It was a very good experience.

Marilyn Brand Ozar
Delray Beach, Fla.