Phil Klutznick
(This article first appeared in May 1954 issue of The Shofar and was written by Kansas City AZA #2 charter member Phil Klutznick.)
By Phil Klutznick
It is with pleasure and pride that I greet AZA on its thirtieth anniversary. As a charter member of the Kansas City Chapter of AZA and one privileged to serve in various capacities with the organization, I have always held its purpose and program very close to my heart.
It is no exaggeration to say that among its many achievements, AZA has saved thousands of young Jewish people for Judaism. I know the truth of this from experience. I can remember the days when AZA was first formed. In the backwash of the first world war, it seemed that all traditional beliefs were being scorned and dismissed. Our Jewish youth was not immune to the general loss of values.
The crying need of the times was for a unifying force based upon the hard core of Jewish religion, culture, and tradition.
AZA met this need and has been doing so ever since. Through its program and activities, it has helped all of us to grow richer in our knowledge of Judaism, stronger in our purpose, and better able to contribute to the welfare of our country.
In a world of uncertainty and fear, AZA has also prepared our young men to combat the dangerous currents of the times. By preserving and teaching the positive values of Judaism, it has provided them with the weapons necessary to meet injustice and to see through the false promises of totalitarian faiths.
For thirty years, AZA has been teaching that Judaism has a future as well as a past. In the coming years, may it continue to bring this vital message to our youth so that they may be inspired to serve their people and all mankind.
