HONORING OUR VETS — On Wednesday, Oct. 10, Korean War vet Lee Levin and his daughter Terry Levine flew from Kansas City to Washington, D.C., as part of Honor Flight. Honor Flight Network is a nonprofit organization that transports American veterans to visit memorials dedicated in the nation’s capital to honor the service and sacrifices of themselves and their friends. Top priority is given to the senior veterans.
The vets flew on a chartered jet and the oldest veteran on his flight was a 97-year-old Marine, Levin said.
“Over half were in wheelchairs, but not a single one failed to make it through the entire day,” Levin reported.
He said former Sen. Bob Dole, now 96 and in a wheelchair himself, greeted the group at the World War II Memorial “with his usual dry humor.”
“It was absolutely amazing how many — and there were literally hundreds of people — shook our hands and thanked us for our service,” Levin said. “Even more amazing are the people who make up the Honor Flight Network. Everyone is a volunteer, and they do everything imaginable to make the day memorable, including arranging for the veterans not to have to go through security, and arranging for a police escort in Washington, D.C., so that the buses can run red lights and break through rush-hour traffic. They get up around 3 a.m. and are utterly devoted to the project, arranging for everything and including a few surprises that are jaw-droppingly stunning in their impact. I would certainly recommend the Honor Flight to any veteran, even if they have already seen the Washington, D.C., memorials. I can guarantee they will never forget the experience.”
HURRICANE RELIEF — Once again, Jewish Federation is poised and ready to help those hit hard by the latest U.S. hurricane this year, Hurricane Michael. In the aftermath of hurricanes Florence and now Michael, which slammed the Florida Panhandle last week, the Jewish Federation network is working to support immediate needs in the form of funding for urgently needed basics, as well as the long-term needs as those affected rebuild their homes, schools and their lives.
One hundred percent of donations given to Jewish Federation’s 2018 Hurricane Relief fund goes to hurricane relief efforts. You can give online at jewishkansascity.org or send a check to Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City, 5801 W. 115 Street, Suite 201, Overland Park, KS 66211, Attn: 2018 Hurricane Relief Fund. Contact Danita Hill at 913-327-8107 with questions.
OPRAH, AGAIN — Not one but two readers pointed out after last week’s mention of Julie Fingersh’s article in the October Oprah Magazine that she is also published in the November edition. This time she writes about sprained ankles, adventures and friendships. Check it out.