Community Review - December 30, 2022

community review

2022: A YEAR IN REVIEW FOR CENTRAL PA JEWS

BY ADAM GROBMAN

2022 was a milestone year for the Greater Harrisburg Jewish Community. In addition to seeing in-person programming and services return to pre-pandemic levels, we saw many announcements and transitions that will shape the community in the years to come. Here are a few of the highlights from each of our community’s synagogues, organizations, and more:

Beth El Temple: Completed two major capital projects this year, with the renovation of the Social Hall and Chapel. Executive Director Bill Walter says that “these physical changes will help Beth El Temple be a place that enriches the community, inspires faith, and provides space to celebrate, innovate, and build relationships”

Campus of the Jewish Home: The campus was sold to a private owner - proceeds were instrumental in establishing Senior Fund at the Jewish Community Foundation of Central PA.

Chisuk Emuna Congregation: Launched “Shabbat Around the World” series to explore diverse backgrounds of members and friends, hosted program honoring the art featured throughout the synagogue, and supported JFS’ Afghani resettlement efforts. Read more about Chisuk Emuna’s accomplishments this year on Pg. 3

Jewish Community Foundation: Established Senior Fund through funds generated by sale of the Campus of the Jewish Home.

Jewish Family Service: Launched Afghan Refugee resettlement program, helping dozens of families and individuals to find a new beginning in Central PA. Hosted Chef Michael Solomonov in celebration of the 40th anniversary of Finkelstein - Cohen Kosher Meals on Wheels and the expansion of the Libby Urie Food Pantry. Preparing to launch Ukrainian refugee resettlement efforts.

Jewish Federation of Greater Harrisburg: Closed on the purchase of the Grass Campus and held dedication and other initialeventsoncampus,launchedcampaigntoraiseadditional $10 million in support of the project and community, and launched a national CEO search.

Kesher Israel Congregation: Completed move to new synagogue at 3200 N. 3rd St, where regular programs and servicesarenowheld.HiredRabbiHowardFinkelsteinwhowill beginleadingthesynagogueinJanuary(readmoreaboutRabbi Finkelstein in an upcoming edition of Community Review.

The Silver Academy: Joined the Alliance of Small Jewish Day Schools and implemented its 3-year Justice and Tikkun Olam curriculum. Expanded STEAM programming to 1st – 4th grades. Launched English as a Second Language program. TempleBethShalom:Reconfigured octagon-shaped Sukkah to a four-sided one, complete with pennants honoring American Jews. Read more about this project on Pg. 5

Temple Ohev Shalom: Hired Rabbi Marc Kline as interim rabbi. Opened High Holiday services to all. Hired Sally Jo Bronner as Religious School Principal.

• The Chabad West Shore Jewish Center was established by Rabbi Nissen Pewzner and Chana Pewzner.

• The community mourned the loss of longtime leader and philanthropist, Lois Lehrman Grass.

• Community came together for first in-person Israeli Independence Day celebration/Memorial Day Commemoration since the beginning of the pandemic. We are excited for the 75th anniversary of Israel’s Declaration of Independence with more details to follow on programming in 2023.

• Israel went to the polls for the fifth time in the last four years, with a Benjamin Netanyahu-led coalition winning enough seats to form a government. Netanyahu is expected to return to the role of Prime Minister.

• Rising antisemitism was a major flashpoint in communities across the country. Pennsylvania extended its Non-Profit Security Grant Program until 2029 which will help religious institutions to address security concerns.

And a few other items of note in Central PA and the global Jewish community this year:

The Alexander Grass Campus for Jewish Life was one of many exciting projects and announcements that emerged in 2022 and will shape the Jewish community in the years to come.

BY ARNIE SOHINKI

Oftentimes, New Year’s Resolutions focus on how we can improve our own status or quality of life. We enter into January determined to spend more time with our family and friends, get back in the gym, take that vacation that keeps getting put aside, or to get a higher-paying job.

But there are ways that we can use resolutions to make an impact beyond our waistline or bank account.

A New Year’s Resolution can be a sign of personal optimism, looking for ways in which we can improve our lives and lifestyle and at the same time, do something good for our family, friends, neighborhood, community, and maybe even for the world!

As dedicated, committed, and involved community members, let’s take action to bring our mishpacha closer together this year and strengthen ties across our community. Here are a few ideas:

1. Find time to spend with your family. Volunteer as a family to help at a shelter, deliver meals, visit a senior home or a hospital’s children’s ward or participate in a neighborhood/park clean up event.

2. Go out of your way to be kind. Whether holding the door for someone entering behind you or welcoming and striking up a conversation with a new face at synagogue, kindness costs nothing and can mean everything.

3. Get involved in a new way. Go along with a friend who invites you to an event - you might learn something, meet a new friend, or gain a new perspective.

4. Volunteer. There are countless ways to help the organizations and synagogues across our community. Volunteering strengthens your commitment to the organizations you care about, and helps them to put their mission into practice.

5. Speak up for what is right. By taking the risk to share your thoughts and opinions, you can make a difference by helping to shape opinions of others, to change someone’s heart or mind, or to build a better community. And as always: “if you see something, say something”!

6. Make an intellectual resolution. Look for ways to improve your mind, learn more about our community and what it has to offer. Read more (maybe watch less TV?), develop a new skill, learn a foreign language (maybe Hebrew or Yiddish), or take on a new hobby. Participate in group tours, learning classes, or discussion groups.

There are two quotes that I want to share with you. Golda Meir said: “Trust yourself. Create the kind of self that you will be happy to live with all of your life. Make the most of yourself by fanning the tiny, inner sparks of possibility into flames of achievement.”

And Anne Frank said: “How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.”

We are all very optimistic when we make our resolutions, and sometimes life just gets in the way. That is okay. Just take a deep breath and decide on how you will move forward as soon as you can. One of those sayings that I always used with my kids and now with my grandchildren is: “Action speaks louder than words.” The key to being successful with your resolutions, is taking action. So, now it is up to you.

Wishing you and your families a safe, happy, and healthy new year. May it be a year that brings all good things your way. And may we all continue to go from strength to strength.

Community Review

Vol. 96, No. 26 December 30, 2022 (ISSN 1047-9996) (USPS 126-860)

Published bi-weekly by the Jewish Federation of Greater Harrisburg, 3301 N. Front Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17110. Subscription rate: $50 per year. Periodicals postage paid at Harrisburg, PA, and additional entry office.

Editorial Board Members

Roberta Krieger

Rabbi Carl Choper Rita Gordon Jeanette Krebs Arnie Sohinki

STAFF Editor Adam Grobman a.grobman@jewishfedhbg.org

Advertising Oren Yagil 717-409-8222 oren@jewishfedhbg.org

Design and Layout Lisette Stahl

Graphic Designer Lisette Stahl

Postmaster: Send address changes to Community Review, 3301 N. Front Street, Harrisburg, PA., 17110.

Mission Statement of The Community Review: Inform readers about local, national and international events of interest to Jews. Promote Jewish values, Jewish identity and a sense of Jewish community in central Pennsylvania.

The opinions expressed in the Community Review do not necessarily reflect the position of the Jewish Federation of Greater Harrisburg. The Federation does not endorse any candidate or political party for any elected office.

Introducing JCC Membership Director Melissa Dang

BY ADAM GROBMAN

As the Harrisburg JCC and Jewish Federation look ahead to the new opportunities and resources at the Grass Campus, a new membership director will have the pleasure of introducing community members to the offerings available to them through JCC membership.

Melissa Dang joined the Federation team as Director of Membership and Guest Services this Fall, following the retirement of longtime director Linda Skulsky.

Melissa’s previous experience includes a background in fitness and as membership coordinator for the Pennsylvania State Nurses Association, where she helped to grow membership by 50% even in the hardships faced during the pandemic. She is excited to continue to meet JCC and community members and share how the JCC can help members reach their fitness goals.

“I want members to know that we’re here to support them,” she says. “I want them to be happy and content in choosing the JCC in enriching their lives.”

In her short time at the JCC, Melissa has established Member Appreciation Mondays, which will bring community organizations to the JCC to share about their programs and services, and JCCPerks, a program to offer JCC members discounts to local businesses. Participating JCCPerks organizations include Rijuice, Harvest Seasonal Grill, J. Jill, and The Balance.

When not giving tours of the JCC or reaching out to potential members, Melissa enjoys indoor cycling and tennis. Melissa can be reached at m.dang@jewishfedhbg.org or 717-236-9555 x 3050.

Chisuk Emuna Reflects on Dynamic 2022

BY NANCY SIMMONS AND RABBI RON MUROFF

2022 has been a year of building relationships within and beyond the Chisuk Emuna family - via Zoom and increasingly in-person - as we rejoiced in being able to be back in person!  Our Gesher program - which we jointly sponsor with Beth El - engaged our children in innovative programs like Shamor v’Zachor - a creative Holocaust and Shabbat curriculum, and Better Together - an intergenerational partnership. Many dedicated adults from both congregations learned how to read Torah this past year, culminating in an evening of study and celebration on Shavuot as one after another new Torah reader shared their skill and personal connections to the Torah passages they were reading.

We hosted a monthly Jewish Mindfulness practice with Rabbi Myriam Klotz from the Institute of Jewish Spirituality and Ira Zborovskaya of the Jewish Distribution Committee who shared the work that she and her colleagues were doing to support Ukrainian Jews and others suffering from the Russian assault - among many other programs.

Our Strength Through Action Team (STAT) coordinated our synagogue’s efforts - with the guidance of JFS - to support the resettlement of Afghanis in our community. STAT also facilitated our monthly food-packing initiative with Journey Church to aid those in need in the Harrisburg community.

Right before the High Holidays, nearly ten years after moving into our new home, we “Celebrated the Art of Chisuk Emuna” by honoring all those who had created the beautiful art pieces in our sanctuary and synagogue. We also dedicated our new ark door - which features a beautiful and inspiring mosaic designed and fabricated by Susan Leviton. Recently, we initiated a new Shabbat series, entitled "Shabbat Around the World," as we explore the diverse backgrounds and traditions of our members and friends.

Day 1: Depart your group's location in a spacious, video and restroom equipped motorcoach as you head for your destination: Memphis – Home of the Blues, Soul & Rock n Roll. Tonight, check into an en route hotel for a good night's rest.

Day 2: Today, after enjoying a Continental Breakfast, you will continue towards your destination. This evening, you will have Dinner and check into your Memphis area hotel for a four night stay.

Day 3: Start with a Continental Breakfast, then you'll enjoy a visit to the MEMPHIS ROCK 'N' SOUL MUSEUM. Since opening its doors in 2000, the Rock ‘N' Soul Museum has been seen by over 200,000 tourists. Take an audio guided tour through the museum's seven galleries and see the story of rock and soul unfold through extensive audio footage, artifacts and audio visual programs. Next, you'll enjoy lunch on your own on BEALE STREET. Next, you'll enjoy a GUIDED TOUR of MEMPHIS, the “Home of the Blues. Tonight, enjoy Dinner at a local restaurant then return to your hotel for a good night's rest.

Day 4: After a Continental Breakfast, your group will have a memorable day, starting with a MANSION TOUR of amazing and opulent GRACELAND, home of Elvis Presley. Your visit will also include Elvis' TWO CUSTOM AIRPLANES and admission to the expanded PRESLEY MOTORS CAR MUSEUM. Later, you'll enjoy an authentic Memphis themed Dinner with Entertainment.

Day 5: Today after Continental Breakfast, you’ll enjoy a visit to the SLAVE HAVEN UNDERGROUND RAILROAD MUSEUM. Later, you'll enjoy a visit to the famous SUN STUDIO, one of the top rated attractions in all of Memphis. While here, the group will begin their guided narrated tour on the second floor of the Studio (Note: Requires going up about ten steps) and tells the unique story of Rock and Roll in the 1950's while viewing enormous amounts of famous Rock and Roll memorabilia. The group then finishes on the first floor with a guided narrated studio tourseeing the exact place Elvis Presley and many other legendary musicians recorded their famous songs. This evening, you will enjoy Dinner then return to your hotel for a good night's rest.

Day 6: Enjoy a Continental Breakfast before leaving for the Casey Jones Village in Jackson, TN. This evening, relax at your en route hotel.

Day 7: Today, after enjoying a Continental Breakfast, you depart for home... A perfect time to chat with your friends about all the fun things you've done and where your next group trip will take you!

®

Chanukah Celebration Returns to Capitol Rotunda

BY ADAM GROBMAN

The 2nd night of Chanukah brought community members together in the rotunda of the PA State Capitol building for a menorah lighting celebration with latkes, sufganiyot, singing, and dancing.

The annual program, hosted by Chabad Lubavitch of Harrisburg, returned to the indoor setting for the first time since the beginning of the pandemic. The Silver Academy led the community in singing Chanukah songs before turning the program over to Rabbi Shmuel Pewzner who introduced elected officials Rep. – Elect Justin Fleming and Sen. John Disanto for words of unity and celebration.

“During this holiday season it’s incumbent on each of us to be a light in our community and reflect that light as a virtue to others,” said Rep.-elect Justin Fleming.

Rabbi Pewzner shared a message of unity before lighting the large-scale electric menorah.

“Around the globe, this year is being celebrated as the year of Jewish togetherness and unity,” he said. “As individuals we each have our own life journeys and challenges, but together we are stronger – now is the time to build on our shared strength.”

Temple Beth Shalom’s Re-envisioned Sukkah Honors Jewish Figures

BY IRA BECKERMAN

For

this

4-sided one.

The Ushpizin, or ‘’guests,’’ are traditionally depicted as the Founding Fathers of the Jewish people, including Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Our Ushpizin pennants constitute Shanee and Saul Rosner (foundation), Leonard Bernstein (splendor), Albert Einstein (eternity), Hank Greenberg (strength), Emma Lazarus (kingship, or in America, the idea of America), Judith Resnick (glory), and Rebecca Gratz (lovingkindness).

Members of Temple Beth Shalom held a service and a pizza meal inviting members of Messiah College, and using the Sukkah as a teaching tool.

Secure Community Network Applauds New Federal Interagency Group to Counter Antisemitism

The Secure Community Network (SCN), the official safety and security organization of the Jewish community in North America, applauded the announcement of a new federal interagency group to counter antisemitism. The announcement follows discussion of such a group at a White House roundtable on antisemitism, hosted by Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff, in which SCN National Director and CEO Michael Masters participated and expressed support for interagency coordination.

“Religious life – including Jewish life – is under attack in this country,” said Masters. “SCN is working to secure it in partnership with key stakeholders, to include Federations, national partners, and law enforcement. We must all come together to preserve religious freedom, and to preserve what it means to be Jews, people of faith, and Americans. We stand ready to do that, and to support the work of the administration and our other partners in all our collective efforts on this front.”

Coordination among federal agencies about antisemitism is critical to improving the government’s prevention, protection, and response capabilities. SCN also strongly supports efforts to increase funding for at-risk facilities through the Nonprofit Security Grant Program; expand support for law enforcement to help protect houses of worship; provide additional training for law enforcement officers and prosecutors on identifying and pursuing hate crimes; and require consistent and accurate reporting of hate crimes to the FBI.

Sukkot

year, Temple Beth Shalom reconfigured its long-used octagon sukkah into a more traditional

In true Reconstructionist Fashion, we can envision Ushpizin as those American Jews that best represent the spiritual attributes of G-d.

WISH WOMEN GATHER AT JCC ANEL ON REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS

ENTED BY

Abortion was a key issue determining the outcome of many midterm elections and will continue to be a factor for voters.

That was one of the takeaways from the November 20 Women of Vision event, Reproductive Rights: A Jewish Perspective that was held at the JCC. After skipping three years of the annual brunch because of COVID, the Mary Sachs Auditorium was crowded with attendees.

Speakers at the event were Shira Zemel, Abortion Access Campaign Co - Director for National Council of Jewish Women, Dr. Maggie Grotzinger, local retired obstetrician and gynecologist, and Rabbi Ariana Capptauber, spiritual leader of Beth El Temple. Jeanette Krebs, a former journalist, was the moderator for the panel discussion.

The speakers talked about abortion along with the Jewish advocacy perspective.

Grotzinger shared that she worked with many patients who sought abortions for a variety of reasons. She said for the women she treated, it was not an easy choice. She said that pregnancy termination must s health care and not continue to be politicized.

BY: JEANETTE KREBS

Rabbi Capptauber said Jewish law makes clear that life does not begin at conception and that the fetus is not viewed as separate from a mother first breath. She explained that abortion is considered an necessary part of caring for the life of a pregnant person in Judaism and thus it is a violation of religious freedom to restrict access to that care.

Zemel spends her time talking to organizations about abortion rights and has been in demand since the landmark Supreme Court decision Roe vs. Wade was overturned this past June. She encouraged people to get involved with the reproductive rights issue by volunteering, making donations and, voting! She said abortion was a front

Women of Vision is a tzedakah collective for women who wish to bring about change by making grants that respond to the social welfare needs of Jewish women and children in the Harrisburg area. The WOV Fund is a component Fund of the Jewish Community Foundation of Central PA. For more information, please contact Michele at michele@pajewishendowment.org or at 717-409-8220.

Sunday Brunch event, and said, the large attendance showed abortion rights is clearly an important issue to women in the Jewish community.

Call the Jewish Community Foundation to discuss what is in your heart and how you can leave a legacy to causes that are impor tant to you!

Contact Paulette Keifer at 717-409-8220 (ext 1) or email her at paulette.keifer@pajewishendowment.org

SHIRA ZEMEL, NCJW DR. MAGGIE GROTZINGER RABBI ARIANA CAPPTAUBER

Join us for this virtual presentation of inspiring and unexpected stories from the children and grandchildren of Holocaust survivors. The Jewish Federation has partnered to bring this program to our community free of charge.

Visit jewishharrisburg.org/remembrance-of-things-present, use the code  harrisburgjf1 on the Checkout Page and be sure to hit the  APPLY button. The Zoom link will be sent a few days prior AND the day of the performance. For any questions, email:  susie@the-braid.org.

Synagogue Life

BETH EL TEMPLE

2637 N Front St | (717) 232-0556 | www.bethelhbg.org

Beth El Temple has resumed in-person Friday evening and Shabbat morning services. We also offer a mix of in-person and Zoom minyans. For more information, visit Beth El's website.

CHISUK EMUNA CONGREGATION 3219 Green St | (717) 232-4851 | info@chisukemuna.org | www.chisukemuna.org

Chisuk Emuna Congregation will be holding services in person and on Zoom. For more information, please contact the office at 717-232-4851 or info@chisukemuna.org.

CONGREGATION BETH ISRAEL, LEBANON 411 S 8th St | (717) 273-2669 | www.congregation-beth-israel.org Contact Rabbi Sam Yolen at yolen002@gmail.com for details on both programming and minyan. For more information, visit Beth Israel's website.

CONGREGATION BETH TIKVAH, CARLISLE Asbell Center, 262 W High Street | (717)-240-8627 | www.bethtikvah.org

HISTORIC B’NAI JACOB, MIDDLETOWN Water & Nissley Streets | (717) 319-3014 www.bnai-jacob.org

Historic B’nai Jacob Synagogue, located at Water and Nissley Streets in Middletown, near the Harrisburg International Airport and Penn State-Harrisburg, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Marc Bluestein is currently leading the services. Connection information and program materials will be provided by email to the Congregation and also can be requested by using the contact form on our Shul website: http://www.bnai-jacob.org. We are a community Shul and you are welcome to join us. There are no membership dues or admission fees.

KESHER ISRAEL CONGREGATION 3200 N 3rd St | (717) 238-0763 | www.kesherisrael.org

Kesher Israel is holding in-person daily and Shabbat davening. For details about services, meetings, and programming, contact Benjamin Altman, President, at president@kesherisrael.org, or Ashley Caraballo at office@kesherisrael.org.

For more information, visit Kesher Israel's website.

OHEV SHOLOM CONGREGATION, YORK 2090 Hollywood Drive | 717-852-0000 | www.OhevSholomYork.org

Ohev Sholom Congregation is a Conservative congregation serving York County in an inclusive, egalitarian manner. Established in 1902, the congregation is led by our student rabbi in association with our lay leadership. Ohev Sholom provides adult educational opportunities in conjunction with our local Chabad Learning Center while embracing different levels of observance, stages of life, and family structures.

TEMPLE BETH ISRAEL 2090 Hollywood Dr, York | (717) 843-2676 | www.tbiyork.org York’s 140-year-old Reform congregation.

TEMPLE BETH SHALOM 913 Allendale Rd, Mechanicsburg | (717) 697-2662 | www.tbshalom.org

Shabbat services will be held on January 6 and 20, February 3 and 17. Services are both in person and via Zoom. If you are not on our email contact list and would like to attend, please call or email the Temple office in advance of the service in case of scheduling changes. Services are led by Rabbi Carl Choper of Beth Shalom. Please email the office at tbshalom@ gmail.com or call 717-697-2662 for information if you would like to join the services.

For details on upcoming Temple Beth Shalom services and events, check the website: http:// tbshalom.org.

TEMPLE OHEV SHOLOM 2345 N Front St | (717) 233-6459 | www.ohevsholom.org

Shabbat Services are held Friday evenings at 6pm in person and are also live-streamed on the Ohev Facebook page at www.facebook.com/OhevSholom and on the Ohev YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/TempleOhevSholomHbgPa.

• Saturday, Jan. 7 at 10am: “Tot Shabbat” in the Lehrman Chapel. RSVP to the front office, 717-233-6459 or office@ohevsholom.org.

• Friday, Jan. 13 at 6:45 to 8pm: Sisterhood Soup and Study

• Saturday, Jan. 21: Sisterhood winter social

• Sunday, Feb. 5, Kugel-making with Sisterhood

JCC Senior Adult Programs

JCC Senior Adult Club Lunches and programs are held twice-weekly on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Lunch is served at 12 noon, with to-go options available for those who prefer not to unmask to eat. All programs begin after lunch unless otherwise indicated.

UPCOMING PROGRAMS INCLUDE:

JAN 3 Current Events led by Jeff Jacobs

JAN 5 Nanci Reinhart: “Taming Junk in Your Email Inbox” Learn how to organize your email such that your inbox is no longer overwhelmed with a lot of marketing and other junk content. This will allow you to quickly delete emails that you do not want to read while minimizing the chances of accidentally deleting important incoming correspondence.

JAN 10 Business Meeting/Birthday Party

JAN 12 Session 9 of “Holocaust Education in the 21st Century” with Educator Lillian Rappaport

JAN 17 Retired Army Colonel John Maietta presents A Thousand Years Without A Bath? Illuminating The Real Dark Ages Squalor, violence and ruin--that’s the common view of life in Europe between the fall of Rome and the Renaissance. But the real picture was very different. This program sheds some welcome light on the bright spots that emerged during this thousand-year stretch: the gilded splendor of the Byzantine Court; the great centers of Muslim and Jewish learning; the bustling city-states of Italy; and the humble monasteries, committed to keeping alive the wisdom of the ancients.

JAN 19 Join the Silver Academy Middle School students for our fifth Better Together program of the year. We will celebrate Tu Bishvat, the Jewish birthday of the trees. Enjoy a delicious lunch with the students and then participate in fun

JAN

24 Dr. Donald Koones, Hacc History Professor A Tug Of The Earlobe - Carol Burnett

Bennett Cerf once said, “The person who can bring the spirit of laughter into a room is indeed blessed.” This particular quote exemplifies the life of Carol Burnett. Carol’s talents have become well known as a comedian, actress, writer, and singer. Her career has yielded awards in television, film, as well as the Broadway stage. These performances have resulted in Emmy Awards, Golden Globes and Tony and Grammy Awards. Carol’s life has always held an aspect of humor and laughs, however there were also dark areas and challenges. As an infant, she was faced with alcoholic parents, divorce, and thankfully, loving grandparents who stepped into a sad and lonely situation. As an adult, divorce entered her life, as well as drugs, cancer and, alcoholism on the part of her children. Nevertheless, Carol continued to bring joy and happiness to a wide range of fans throughout her career. Come and enjoy this salute to Carol Burnett remembering a quote from Lord Byron: “Always laugh when you can. It is cheap medicine.”

JAN 26 Bingo

JAN 31 Babka Bash!

Babka is simply delicious! You are invited to join us in making our own (take and bake) version of this classic Jewish treat! Facilitated by Macy and Jacquie.

Register Now For Senior Adult Artist-in-Residency Course

1. Wednesday, February 22, 2023

2. Wednesday, March 1, 2023

3. Wednesday, March 8, 2023

4. Wednesday, March 15, 2023

5. Wednesday, March 22, 2023

6. Wednesday, April 12, 2023

7. Wednesday, April 26, 2023

8. Wednesday, May 3, 2023

9. Wednesday, May 10, 2023

10. Wednesday, May 17, 2023

11. Wednesday, May 24, 2023 12. Wednesday, May 31, 2023

13. Wednesday, June 14, 2023

14. Wednesday, June 21, 2023

15. Wednesday, June 28, 2023

16. Wednesday, July 5, 2023

17. Wednesday, July 19, 2023

18. Wednesday, July 26, 2023

19. Wednesday, August 9, 2023Set Up for Show

20. Wednesday, August 16, 2023-this last day is the Art Show in the Spector and we leave the art up for one week.

Note: We are also holding two back-up dates, should we need to reschedule a class. Please call Cheryl Yablon at 717-236-9555 x3115 to register for this incredible opportunity as soon as possible, but no later than January 26, 2023.

For the last six years, the JCC Senior Adult Club has participated in the “Artist Residency Program.” We are pleased to offer this course again for the 7th year. The theme for the 2023 program will focus on color. Each class, Cheryl Kugler will introduce a different facet of art based on the chosen theme.

In our upcoming 2023 series of classes, we are offering a 20-class session at the JCC. We are highly encouraging all participants to be vaccinated and to have received all booster shots. Masking is still encouraged, but not mandatory. It is an incredible opportunity for our seniors to work with Cheryl Kugler, a professional artist. We are grateful for funding from the Dauphin County Department of Aging and the Capital Area Intermediate Unit 15, which has enabled us to cover most of our cost to offer this 20-class session. We are suggesting a donation of $40 for JCC Senior Adult Club members and a fee of $80 for Non-JCC Senior Adult club members. We can register up to 18 people for this program, first come, first serve. Please register by calling Cheryl Yablon at 717-236-9555 x3115 as soon as possible, so that the artist will have enough time to order the supplies needed, but no later than January 26, 2023. The group will meet on Wednesdays. Because of the length of the program, and pre-scheduled activities, the classes will be spread out from February through August.

SAT,

SUN,

MON,

www.jewishharrisburg.org

Obituaries

LEWIS APPELBAUM

Lewis Appelbaum passed away at his home in Pennsylvania on Wednesday, December 7, 2022 surrounded by close family and friends. He was born March 19, 1939 to Harold and Gertrude Appelbaum and spent his childhood in Brooklyn, NY. He graduated from Hobart College and NYU with an MBA. His long career began at Ford Motor Company where he worked for 18 years and then became a Ford Dealer in Mechanicsburg, PA. He owned and managed K&H Ford and several other automobile dealerships over the years including West Shore Kia; eventually selling those two to Fred Beans/McCafferty; which they are today.

After the car business, his entrepreneurial spirit led him to real estate and he was principally responsible for the development of the neighborhood Hampden Summit in Mechanicsburg. Over the years he also owned and managed properties all around the country.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Regina (Gruskin) Appelbaum. They travelled extensively and loved the southwest. They had homes in Tucson, Arizona where they spent almost 30 winters. One of their favorite interests were rocks and gemstones and thoroughly enjoyed the annual mineral and gemstone convention in Tucson. He was always a city boy living in the country.

He is also survived by his son Steven and wife Susan (Gilbert) of Charleston, SC., his son Neal and husband Garth Hawkins of Woodbury, TN, his daughter Phyllis and her husband David Sienkiewicz of Mechanicsburg, PA, and his sister Myra Sarney and her husband Elliot Sarney of Wayne, NJ.

Lewis approached life fearlessly and enthusiastically in all of his endeavors. Whether it was business or interests or relationships, he immersed himself with passion and set high standards – both for himself and the people around him. He and his unique approach to life will be missed.

He has requested a private cremation. His life will be celebrated at a later date around his birthday in March.

In lieu of flowers, please consider giving a donation to Homeland At Home, 2300 Vartan Way, Suite 270, Harrisburg, PA 17110, 717857-7400.

MARILYN GASTFRIEND

September 10, 1933 – December 3, 2022

Marilyn Gastfriend (nee Weisman) passed away peacefully in her sleep at the age of 89, on Saturday December 3, 2022 at her home in Delray Beach, Florida.

Marilyn is the elder daughter of Ed (Isadore) and Kate (nee Skolnick) Weisman. She is survived by her husband of over 70

years, Eddie Gastfriend, her sister Sandy (Weisman) Davis and husband Eddie, her son David Gastfriend and wife Jody, and daughter Felicia (nee Gastfriend) Berkowitz and her husband Alan, as well as her 8 adoring grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren. She is pre-deceased by her daughter Jean Rene Gastfriend (Z’L).

Marilyn was born in Philadelphia’s Strawberry Mansion neighborhood and graduated Simon Gratz High School. She married Edward Gastfriend in 1951 at the age of 18. They had a special love that lasted throughout their 70-plus year marriage. Their marriage was one of mutual respect, devotion, and adoration. They made all their decisions together as they shared their dreams and visions and brought each one of them to fruition. They grew together and leaned on one another as their support systems throughout the hurdles that life brought. Their beautiful marriage was an inspiration to many, including their children and grandchildren.

Marilyn was a breast cancer survivor, a lifelong Hadassah member, and a caregiver in every sense of the word. She also had a wonderful sense of humor, a beautiful singing voice, and made some of the world’s best chicken soup, meatballs, Jewish apple cake, and her signature marble cake.

Marilyn was a quiet, modest, unassuming

woman who did not tell you what to do, but lived a life setting a perfect example of how to live. She will be deeply missed, but the love and life lessons she imparted will live on in her loving family.

Donations in her memory may be made to Hadassah, Keren Kayemet LeYisrael (Jewish National Fund), or Chisuk Emuna Congregation.

AMELIA (MIMI) LOWY

Amelia (Mimi) Lowy, 83, of Harrisburg, passed away on December 20, 2022.

She is survived by her husband of 59 years, Martin; her daughters Dena Markowitz (Steve) and Andi Abraham (Jason); and grandchildren: Lacey and Spencer Markowitz and Alexis Abraham. She was predeceased by her sister Barbara Cohen Isaacman.

Mimi was born in Harrisburg on October 22, 1939 to Anne and Abe Cohen. Having been born and raised in Harrisburg, Mimi felt blessed to have had wonderful friends, many of whom were friends since early childhood.

During her high school years Mimi played the violin in the William Penn High School orchestra and was a standout basketball player at the Jewish Community Center (JCC).

After graduating from Penn State University she taught Physical Education in the West Shore School District until starting a family. After raising her two daughters,

Obituaries

Mimi returned to teaching and taught in the Harrisburg School District until her retirement.

Mimi had the unique ability to become fast friends with just about everyone she came in contact with. She was a very positive person and never let her Multiple Sclerosis interfere with living a full and active life.

Services were held at the Kesher Israel Cemetery Chapel, 566 Oliver Drive, Harrisburg, 17109, on Thursday December 22, 2022.

Contributions may be made to the Jewish Federation of Greater Harrisburg, 3301 North Front Street, Harrisburg, PA 17110, (www.jewishharrisburg.org) or The Multiple Sclerosis Society, Post Office Box 91891, Washington, DC 20090-1891, (www. nationalmssociety.org).

JEROME (JERRY) ROGOFF

Jerome (Jerry) Rogoff, 95, of Harrisburg and formerly of Virginia Beach, died at home on December 14.

He is survived by his wife of 72 years, Rena; his son, Marty (Julie Sherman) of Harrisburg; son-in-law Michael Star of Columbus, Ohio; grandchildren Andrea (Garret), Matthew (Sarai), Corey (Anna) and Drew; and great-granddaughters Harper and Robin. He was predeceased by his daughter, Robin, and twin brother, Marvin.

Jerry was born on October 28, 1927 to Shirley and Martin Rogoff in the Bronx, New York. At William Howard Taft High School, he played bass in the orchestra, ran cross-country—and met his future wife. He turned 18 just after the end of WWII, and served in the Army as part of Task

Force Frigid in Alaska, whose role it was to experiment with clothing and equipment to learn which would protect the soldiers in the event of a conflict with neighboring Russia. On weekends, he played his bass as part of a band in bars and clubs in nearby Fairbanks.

After his honorable discharge, Jerry and Rena were married in 1950, and followed Jerry’s retailing career, which in 1963 brought them to Harrisburg as part of the management team at Town and Country Stores. After 15 years there, he started his own retail chain, Warehouse Outerwear Outlet, which he successfully ran for a decade. In 1988, he joined a second branch of the service, the Navy, but this time as a civilian. There, based out of first Mechanicsburg and then from Norfolk, he used his retailing knowledge and experience, traveling internationally as an executive for the Navy Exchange Command.

Jerry loved his two “adopted” hometowns of Harrisburg and Virginia Beach. In Harrisburg, he became an avid bass and trout fisherman, helped to run the Holy Spirit Hospital Street Fair, volunteered in various committees at the Jewish Community Center and was a member of Beth El Temple. In Virginia Beach, he joined the Coast Guard Auxiliary (his 3rd service branch), and in time rose to District Commander of the USCG Auxiliary Station Little Creek. He adored boating there, both for the Auxiliary and to show his grandchildren the Chesapeake Bay.

He was probably most proud of being a son of an immigrant who was able to send both of his children to college. At the age of

49, not wanting to be the only member of his family without a degree, Jerry attended and graduated with an AA from HACC in front of his proud family; he later taught retail management at HACC.

Services were held at the Beth El Cemetery Chapel on Friday, December 16.

Contributions may be made to The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary Association (www.cgauxa.org), the Hospice of Central PA (www. hospiceofcentralpa.org), or the charity of your choice.

HERMAN YOUNG

Herman R. Young Jr. “BO”, son of Herman R. Young Sr. and Whittena Young-Sewell, was born Wednesday, May 22, 1963, in Chester, PA. He attended Chester High School and was a retired Class A CDL truck driver. Among his pastimes were fishing, hunting, working on cars, having fun, attending church and, most importantly, spending time with his family. He was a devoted member of his church, Reclaim the Streets International.

On Tuesday, November 22, 2022, at his home in Harrisburg, PA, surrounded by his loving family, Herman peacefully transitioned from time to eternity. He was predeceased by his brother, Raymond Lee Young.

He leaves special and loving memories to be cherished by his wife, Vanessa Young of Harrisburg, PA; mother, Whittena Young-Sewell, stepfather, Marion Sewell of Newark, Delaware; father, Herman R. Young Sr.; his children, Rayvon Berry of Newark, Delaware; Reyna Young and Kayla Young, both of Harrisburg, PA; his siblings, Christine E. Young, Jerry L. Young, both of Chester, PA, Angelette Young of Delaware, John L. Young of Philadelphia, PA; stepsons, Ross Burnett, Micah Morris, and special nephew, Marcel Childs, all of Harrisburg, PA; special brother-in-law, Ritchie Payne of Chester, PA; seven grandchildren; as well as a host of other family members and friends.

Senior Update

BY ROBERTA KRIEGER

It's a known fact that we do not have to look outside of our "neighborhood" to come up with talented speakers and lecturers for our after-lunch Senior Club programs. Proof of this is our very own Senior Club member, Heather Jackson. On Tuesday, November 29th, Heather led a discussion on Jewish Women who made History from Biblical times to the Present. She had a very attentive audience who were forthcoming with comments, as per her request. I could actually see myself in her classroom, avidly listening to her every word. Great job, Heather. Hopefully your first discussion will not be your last. We all enjoyed Norman Gras' mock seafood casserole for lunch, before Heather started her program.

On Thursday, December 1st, we happily welcomed back Dr. Koones, who lectured

on Heroes of the Civil War. Heroes from both sides of the Mason-Dixon Line were represented, as well as those not wearing a uniform. Among the civilians that were included were Clara Barton and Harriet Tubman, to name just a couple. Listening to Dr. Koones is one of the many reasons that coming to our lunch and programs is so great. As is the norm, when Dr. Koones comes to visit, so does a chicken lunch. On this day we were treated to a Chinese style stir-fry dish which was a delicious way to start the afternoon.

On Tuesday, December 6th, Jeff Jacobs, our Current Events Moderator, joined us for a short, non-volatile program. We discussed various issues of prejudice, such as age discrimination in employment. There was no discussion political in nature, as Jeff wanted to end the

year with a smile, which he did. We thank him for volunteering. Norman Gras came through once again with his individual meat loaves which even non-meatloaf eaters loved.

On Thursday, December 8th, Lillian Rappaport once again gave an amazing presentation on Holocaust education. Two short films were shown which gave us more insight to the ordeals some Holocaust heroes went through. What a brave group of individuals. It took an enormous amount of courage to do what those people did to try to ensure that there would be an accurateas-possible record of the events that took place. One of those heroes mentioned was Janusz Korczak, a doctor and author who ran a Jewish Orphanage in Warsaw, Poland from 1911-1942. He could have been saved from the camps when the children were put on

www.jewishharrisburg.org

trains, but he would not abandon them and instead went on a train to try to keep them calm and not afraid. Before Lillian's program, we were served an amazing fresh salmon salad and spinach lasagna rollup. Norman never fails to please us.

It is definitely a given that when we go to the Senior Club lunch and programs on Tuesday and Thursdays, we are guaranteed to have a great afternoon, starting with delicious lunches by Norman Gras and terrific programs scheduled by our incomparable Senior Advisor, Cheryl Yablon. It’s a win-win situation. We are a very fortunate group.

As usual, I will give you highlights of the forthcoming programs in the next issue of the Community Review. Hope you stay well, are properly vaccinated, and wear masks appropriately. Take care.

FOUNDING CIRCLE

The Founding Circle is comprised of those individuals and families who have made a leadership gift to the Alexander Grass Campus for Jewish Life, expressing their dedication to the future of our communal home.

The Alexander Grass Foundation

Debby Abel & Josh Millman

Chris Baldrige & David Skerpon

Teri Berman & Keith Welks

Nat & Robin Freeman Bernstein

Gail & Joel Burcat

Sandy & Marcia Cohen

Walter & Susan Cohen

In Memory of Edwin B. Silver

The Coopers, The Kriegers, and in Loving Memory of Melvin Krieger

Michael & Ricci Doctrow

The Forman Family

Debra & Richard Freeburn

Larry Freedman

Linda & Harvey Freedenberg

Robert Grass

Dr. Margaret Grotzinger & Dr. Mark Glick

The Hodara Family

The Kluger Family

The Dorothy B. and Dr. S. Lawrence Koplovitz Foundation In memory of Dr. S. Lawrence Koplovitz D.O.

Sam Levine & Irene Berman-Levine

Charles & Carol Liebman

Patti & Gary Lightman

The Maisel Family in Honor of Diane & Jay Maisel

Mary Sachs Charitable Trust

Carol & Joel Ressler

Susan & David Rosenberg Family Fund

Myrna & Bert Rubin and Family

Myra & Stuart Sacks

Alan & Caren Schein

The Alfred and Marjorie Sherman Family Marjorie Sherman

Doug & Jill Sherman

Julie Sherman & Marty Rogoff

Louise & Danny Zemel

Conrad & Gail Siegel

Zachary & Nancy Simmons

Abby, Brandon, Aaron, & Adam Smith

Sheri & Michael Solomon

The Alyce Spector Family in Memory of Morton Spector Cynthia Sussman

Steve & Enid Wassner

For more info on supporting Grass Campus, please visit grasscampus.org or contact us at grasscampus@jewishfedhbg.org or 717-236-9555 x 3299.