Squirrel Hill Magazine Spring 2019

A Publication of the Squirrel Hill Urban Coalition

Squirrel Hill Magazine

Vol 17 | Issue 1

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Spring 2019

HEALING AND CONNECTING COMMUNITIES ISSUE squirrel hill celebrates the year of the golden pig how 4 interfaith leaders are ‘keeping the faith’

A lot of expertise goes into our therapies.

A lot of laughter, too.

It isn’t just world-class medical treatment that makes the difference. It’s our approach to caring. It’s finding joy in the journey. It’s combining elements of play with innovative physician and therapy services, including behavioral health, in an outpatient setting. At The Children’s Institute, every child’s care is family-centered and individualized to be as enjoyable as possible. The results we see are truly amazing. To learn more, call 412.420.2362 or visit amazingkids.org.

BRIDGEVILLE IRWIN PLEASANT HILLS SQUIRREL HILL WEXFORD

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SPRING 2019

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shuc.org/ the-burrow-blog/

in every issue 5 President’s Message 6 Familiar Faces 9 SHUC Snapshots

features

28 Good News from our Schools

20 Keeping the Faith A Conversation with 4 Faith Leaders

By Kim Saunders

31 Guest Editorial Luminari Celebrates Ten Years

By Hilda Fu

23 Disasters and Scary Events

By Margy Whitmer with Hadda Sherapan

33 Squirrel Hill History One Building, 3 Congregations Tree of Life*Or L’Simcha, Dor Hadash, and New Light

By Helen Wilson

24 Fourth Annual Lunar New Year Parade

12 Neighborhood Notes

37 Events & Happenings

26 City Fresh Pasta

By Margy Whitmer

Squirrel Hill Magazine

Our Mission

The Squirrel Hill Urban Coalition is a non-profit community organization dedicated to preserving, improving, and celebrating the quality of life in the 14th Ward of the City of Pittsburgh. Volunteersupported standing committees provide leadership to our community by studying, debating, and advocating positions on issues affecting our neighborhood’s vitality.

Our monthly board meetings September through June are free and open to the public. For more information, please visit www. shuc.org

ON THE COVER:

One of the most moving realizations

In response to the shootings

confirmed by the horrific events which

at the Tree of Life Synagogue,

took place on October 27, 2018 at the

crafters from the group Jewish Hearts for Pittsburgh came together to crochet nearly 20000 handmade

Tree of Life Synagogue is that Squirrel Hill is a strong, supportive community. It is a community that stands together in the face of adversity. And for the next 3 issues

Stars of David and hung them

of Squirrel Hill Magazine, we will explore

throughout the city.

how Squirrel Hill is rebounding since that tragic day last October.

FOR ADVERTISING INQUIRIES Contact marketing@shuc.org.

All other communications can be directed to info@shuc.org or (412)422-7666.

In this first issue called Healing and Connecting our Communities, we share ways that readers can help young children cope with trauma in the news. We also learn how faith is used as a tool of resilience by leaders from diverse communities. And we get to know one specific “community champion,” Jordan Golin, and his role in our community’s recovery. We hope these stories give you encouragement as we

Vol 17 | Issue 1

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SQUIRREL HILL URBAN COALITION OFFICERS PRESIDENT Richard Feder VICE PRESIDENT Marshall Hershberg VICE PRESIDENT Lisa Crooks Murphy VICE PRESIDENT Joshua Sayles SECRETARY Barbara Grover ASST. SECRETARY Cynthia Morelock TREASURER Gina Levine ASST. TREASURER Lisa Steindel IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Raymond Baum BOARD OF DIRECTORS Dalia Belinkoff, Vivian Didomenico, Lori Fitzgerald, Heather Graham, Michael D. Henderson, Martha Isler, Lois Liberman, Joseph Ott, Mary Shaw, Ceci Sommers (Director Emerita), Sidney Stark (Director Emeritus), Erik Wagner, and Eveline Young MAGAZINE COMMITTEE Raymond Baum, Harriet Baum, Dalia Belinkoff, Michael D. Henderson, Eleanor Hershberg, Barbara Rabner, Kimberly Saunders, Helen Wilson, and Genevieve Cook CONTRIBUTORS & PHOTOGRAPHERS Ruby Chang, Jennifer Bails, Raymond Baum, Richard Feder, Martha Isler, Marian Lien, Kimberly Saunders, Margy Whitmer, Helen Wilson, Jennifer Bails, and Jody Handley, and Lynn Kawaratani EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Marian Lien OFFICE INTERNS Alana Dickey and Ruby Chang Squirrel Hill Magazine, Vol. 17, Issue 1, is provided by the Squirrel Hill Urban Coalition as a free service

recover together in these days ahead.

to the residents and businesses in the 15217 zip code.

Marian Lien, SHUC Executive Director

this magazine may be reproduced without permission.

Subscriptions are available for $25/year. No portion of Printed by Knepper Press.

4 | shuc.org

Spring 2019

By Richard Feder, President of SHUC

We are so grateful to the persons and organizations who showed leadership, promoted community healing and provided comfort to Squirrel Hill and the Jewish community in response to the October 27 shootings at the Tree of Life synagogue building on Wilkins Avenue in Squirrel Hill.

The following list is by no means comprehensive – we could never identify all of the individuals from the community and beyond—who helped out that day and

Rich Feder getting ready for the 2019 Lunar New Year Parade.

in the immediate aftermath—but we would like to offer heartfelt thanks to the following:

Our community will never forget this tragedy but will continue to look for ways to strengthen and support

• •

Police, medical personal and first responders who

each other. According to the Jewish Chronicle, leaders

put their lives on the line to save others

from several organizations have been meeting with one

Our local political leaders including Mayor Bill

another and with leaders from the Jewish community to

Peduto, County Executive Rich Fitzgerald, City

discuss how to move forward. They’re working on finding

Councilpersons Erika Strassburger and Corey

the best way to strengthen the Jewish community and

O’Connor who provided on-site comfort, and

Squirrel Hill as a neighborhood said Josh Sayles, director

Senator Jay Costa and Representative Dan Frankel

of the Jewish Federation of Pittsburgh’s Community

for procuring access to additional support resources

Relations Council and a SHUC board member.

from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and

•

Delinquency (PCCD) including a $1 million grant for

“It has been and could have been any of our

the counseling and support for the victims of the

communities, and that’s why it’s so important we stand

Tree of Life incident

together. People who hate a group of people don’t only

The Jewish Community Center for housing the

hate one group of people. It’s really important that we’re

victims center—essentially becoming a command

all aware that even though this happened to hit the

post for the FBI, Allegheny County Department of

Jewish community at this time, it could be any one of us

Human Services, Red Cross, and Jewish Family and

at any time.”

Community Services • •

•

Jewish Family and Community Services which

For many of these organizations, the need to help

provided counseling and social services

derived from a connection they felt with members

Students from Taylor-Allerdice High School,

of the Jewish community, because of the welcoming

Community Day School, Yeshiva for leading our

atmosphere Squirrel Hill has offered, the connection that

Squirrel Hill community in the immediate aftermath

comes from being minority groups, and in appreciation

with a vigil for solidarity

of the services provided to newcomers to Pittsburgh by

The Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh, the Islamic

organizations such as JCC, the Federation, and JFCS. To

Center of Pittsburgh, the Latino and Bhutanese

them all, we are indebted with gratitude.

communities, and the Asian and Asian-American organizations that offered prayer services and fundraising events to support the victim and their families

Spring 2019 | 5

SHUC PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

A Note of Gratitude

FAMILIAR FACES

Meet Community Champion Jordan Golin

By Raymond Baum

This is the first of a series of articles that will briefly,

believe that when our community is diverse - in all

acknowledge the heroes and champions who rushed to

respects - we are stronger. They emphasize the

aid and comfort our community during the aftermath of

importance of working with people of all ages,

the 10/27/2018 shootings at the Tree of Life synagogue.

backgrounds, and nationalities so that all may become

We regret that we don’t have the resources to celebrate

contributing members of our Pittsburgh society.

all those who so greatly contribute to the wellbeing of our community.

Jordan also points to collaboration as a key to JFCS’s many areas of success. Valued partners include The

DR. JORDAN GOLIN

Jewish Community Center of Pittsburgh, the Jewish

President and Chief

Foundation, the Squirrel Hill Urban Coalition, the

Executive Officer,

Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, religious groups of all

Jewish Family and

persuasions,, such as the United Way of Southwestern

Community Services

Pennsylvania. Working with community organizations at

of Pittsburgh (JFCS)

many levels is a vital part of the organization’s fabric, a

Federation of Greater Pittsburgh, the Jewish Healthcare

JFCS tradition that Jordan has actively nurtured.

Dr. Jordan Golin has been with JFCS since 2001, becoming CEO in 2016 after having served as Chief Operating Officer and Clinical Director. Since its founding more than 80 years ago to help resettle Jews fleeing the pogroms of Europe, the Second World War, and the Soviet Union. JFCS has quietly grown to serve

This (Tree of Life) tragedy has deeply impacted so many of us in so many ways.

provide assistance to many kinds of people in need in

—JORDA N GOL IN

Squirrel Hill and throughout the Pittsburgh region with comprehensive services such as Its services include

These critical partnerships serve us well in times of

career counseling, immigrant and refugee resettlement,

crisis, but these deep connections also accentuate the

individual and family therapy, services for older adults

pleasures of living in a culturally diverse community.

and the JFCS Squirrel Hill Food Pantry.

For example, Squirrel Hill’s annual Lunar New Year celebration has grown every year since its inception in

Jordan has frequently emphasized JFCS’s commitment

2015, as JFCS, Uncover Squirrel Hill, the JCC and The

to welcoming the foreign-born, even in light of changing

Squirrel Hill Urban Coalition have teamed up with the

political priorities. The message that all are welcome

Organization of Chinese Americans, local businesses,

here and that we are all stronger when we support each

and arts organizations to support a joyful festival that

other was validated when Muslims, Christians, Buddhists,

is meaningful to much of our region’s Asian community.

and people of all backgrounds and beliefs stepped up to

The festival’s success recognizes that Squirrel Hill

support the community immediately after October 27.

is perhaps the most multi-ethnic neighborhood of Pittsburgh, and demonstrates how engaging relationships

Jordan leads a staff of 75 employees plus numerous

can improve everyone’s quality of life and the whole

subcontractors, interns, and volunteers, all of whom

community’s prosperity and strength.

CONTINUED on page 7

6 | shuc.org

CONTINUED from page 6 The entire Squirrel Hill community was affected by the Tree of Life*Or L’Simcha tragedy, and Jordan believes that we all have a role to play in our community’s recovery. In his words: “Who were the victims of October 27? The primary victims were certainly the families of the victims, the injured survivors, and the witnesses who escaped. But they also include the New Light, Dor Hadash and Tree of Life Congregations, all of Squirrel Hill, Jews around the world, and all past and potential victims of hate. This tragedy has deeply impacted so many of us in so many ways.”

Jordan exemplifies the kind of leadership we are fortunate to have in so many of the organizations that produced the cohesive response to the life-changing trauma of October 27th that the rest of the nation found so remarkable. The resilience of Squirrel Hill isn’t magical or incidental. It is the result of years of engagement among service organizations and the active inclusion of all who live and work here. We are fortunate to have Jordan Golin leading organizations like

Say Hi to Murray!

Murray the Squirrel is available for events and visits to local organizations and schools.

Call SHUC at (412) 422-7666 or email info@shuc.org to request a visit.

Jewish Family and Community Services to help the Squirrel Hill community remain strong and vibrant into the future.

2019 Calendar of Events Senior Citizens Guide Arrives-Free Pickup.......................Feb. 25, 2019 Spring Clean Up...................................................................Mar. 1, 2019 Memorial Day Flower Order Deadline..............................May 10, 2019 Summer Flower Order Deadline........................................May 24, 2019 Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony...........................May 26, 2019 6th Annual Founders Day Celebration..............................Aug. 17, 2019 Fall Clean Up........................................................................Oct. 1, 2019 Walking Tours every Wed. & Sat starting.............June 1 - Nov. 2, 2019

Did you miss an event last year?

visit Nextdoor.com or call our office at 412-421-1822 Spring 2019 | 7

OCTOBER 5

October 5, 2019

By Mardi Isler, Committee Chair

In preparation for securing a contractor and overseeing construction, SHUC’s Gateway subcommittee on O’Connor’s Corner (at Phillips St and Murray Avenue) has hired an Owner’s Representative, Steve Hawkins.

Steve is a well-respected Squirrel Hill architect who is knowledgeable about the mission of the Squirrel Hill Urban Coalition, having retired from the board after many years of service. Steve is now tasked with completing final drawings so that biddable specifications can be written, advertised, and a contractor selected.

These drawings will also be used to seek a resolution from City Council to approve the plans for the public right of way.

shuc snapshots NOTES FROM YOUR SQUIRREL HILL URBAN COALITION COMMITTEES

The committee goal is to have construction drawings completed and approved by the end of February.

Next steps will include drafting biddable specs so that advertising to secure bids for selecting a contractor can be accomplished by the end of March.

The Gateway Committee also is managing efforts with Port Authority consultants on the proposed Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) plans for this corner, working to resolve issues prior to construction, including coordinating designs for a new corner bus shelter.

Site plan for proposed new plaza includes sidewalk, plantings, dining, seating, and trees. (Drawing by Stephen Hawkins, Architect)

Spring 2019 | 9

SHUC SNAPSHOTS

Gateway Committee

SHUC SNAPSHOTS

Squirrel Hill Litter Patrol Committee The Squirrel Hill Litter Patrol invites neighbors and friends to the Squirrel Hill Spring Cleanup on April 14, from 9 am to 1 pm. Meet other volunteers at the corner of Forbes and Murray avenues, in front of the Squirrel Hill library, where Litter Patrol members will provide grabbers, vests, and other tools for beautifying our streets. Murray the Squirrel will be on hand to show his support (and pose for photos, of course!) Coffee and snacks will be provided.

Volunteers of all ages, including those with scout troops, school groups, or other organizations are welcome.

In years past, bottled water has been provided to Spring Cleanup volunteers. In reduce waste, volunteers are encouraged to bring their own reusable water bottles.

IN MEMORIAM: David Erling Grover (1940-2019)

Similarly, plastic bags will be available for litter collections,

A greatly valued leader of our Squirrel Hill community, Dave grew the Squirrel Hill Litter Patrol’s Adopt-a-Block program to over 20 blocks, during his watch. His devotion to family and community is an example of that Squirrel Hill spirit which makes this neighborhood so strong and resilient.

all volunteers are encouraged to bring previously used grocery or shopping bags.

If you are eager to start cleaning your streets now, please join the Litter Patrol’s Adopt-a-Block program.

You can make a huge difference just by cleaning the area around your home or business on a weekly basis. For more information, follow the Squirrel Hill Litter Patrol on

Photo of Dave with Litter Patrol Committee member Rita Botts at a receont Spring Clean-up event (2015).

Facebook or write to litterpatrol@shuc.org.

It’s that time of year again!

Sunday, April 14 • 2019 • 9am - 1pm HQ @ Corner of Forbes & Murray — Under the Carnegie library Connect with the Litter Patrol on Facebook or visit www.shuc.org for more info. Thanks To our volunteers and good neighbor business partners!

10 | shuc.org

SHUC SNAPSHOTS

PHoto courtesy of Pittsburgh Children’s Museum

XOXO

An Exhibit About Love & Forgiveness SHUC invites neighbors and friends to stay on Sunday April 14th (from 11am to 2), following the Litter Patrol Spring Clean-Up to play, act silly, and consider what makes us sad, mad and happy in XOXO, a 3-hour popup exhibit in partnership with Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh.

Designed for visitors to ask questions, listen, and learn about themselves and the people around them, this mobile museum experience guides participants of all ages through simple activities based on examining and expressing emotions. Using facial expressions, words, movement and art making, activities range from collaborative, involving deep listening and communication with a partner to solitary, wherein attendees can write down their fears on colorful paper which they then shred and turn into art.

Through these activities, visitors will learn about love and forgiveness.

The activities include: • Hold hands with someone to illuminate a hidden message about love • Write down a loving thought and press it into a token to keep or gift • Work together to balance on a bubble seesaw or connect an infinite puzzle • Explore facial expressions and build with Face Blocks • Draw or write down what makes you angry or sad and crank it through a paper shredder • Hug a soft sculpture that responds with a comforting sound

Spring 2019 | 11

NEIGHBORHOOD NOTES

Community Meeting with PWSA on March 19th Leading the first half of SHUC’s March monthly board meeting, Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority (PWSA) Executive Director Robert Weimer and representatives will be on hand 6pm to 7pm on Thursday March 19th at the Multipurpose Room at The Children’s Institute to explain more about PWSA’s lead line program.

PWSA has since collected over 160 samples from residential homes that have lead service lines or plumbing; and the 90th percentile results from the latest round of testing were 20 ppb, exceeding the action level of 15 ppb. Cities similar to Pittsburgh with lead drinking water infrastructure have been using orthophosphate treatment at the plant for improved corrosion control and reduce lead levels. PWSA is in the now in the process of installing the equipment necessary to add orthophosphate and expects it to be applied in early spring 2019.

It is also continuing its program of replacing lead service lines on public streets at no charge, as well as offering financial assistance for homeowners to replace their lead service lines through the Private Lead Line Replacement Community Environmental Project.

PWSA recently mailed an information package to customers eligible for our 2019 Lead Service Line Replacement Program. Funding for this program is limited with replacements performed on a first come, first served basis. Homeowners may check if their property is eligible by going to pgh2o.com/leadmap to access PWSA’s interactive map or call PWSA’s Lead Help Desk at 412.255.8987.

Map illustrates where inspections have already occurred around the city and where PWSA plans to replace lead service lines. To see if your property is affected, go to pgh2o.com/leadmap

12 | shuc.org

NEIGHBORHOOD NOTES

Classic Lines and More:

A Publisher’s Weekly Bookstore of the Year Finalist

Publisher’s Weekly announced the 5 finalists for 2019’s Bookstore of the Year on Thursday, January 24, 2019 at the ABA Winter Institute meeting in Albuquerque, NM. Classic Lines Books & More in Squirrel Hill is one of those finalists.

questioning look on their face and asks how long the store has been here. Through promotion and advertising, off-site events, word of mouth and Forbes Avenue’s vibrant pedestrian street traffic we see someone new every day. In 2018 for every 100 customers served, 55 were first time buyers.

“We are thrilled to have been nominated and selected for the shortlist for Bookstore of the yYear by Publisher’s Weekly”, said Dan Iddings owner of Classic Lines.

Classic Lines is located at 5825 Forbes Ave. in the Squirrel Hill neighborhood of Pittsburgh, PA. It opened in October 2014.

Although Classic Lines is less than 5 years old it has been recognized by the book industry as one of the best bookstores in the United States. Pittsburgh and Squirrel Hill residents have known this for a long time.

In 2015 the Squirrel Hill Urban Coalition declared Classic Lines to be a Squirrel Hill Treasure.

The PW Bookstore of the Year Award has been given every year for the past 26 years. This year’s Bookstore of the Year winner will be named this spring and will be featured in the pre-BookExpo edition of Publishers Weekly magazine. The awards will be presented at BookExpo in New York City.

In spite of stiff competition from online retailers Classic Lines has thrived through the frequent reading and shopping habits of our loyal customers and our partnerships with many community organizations including Pittsburgh Arts and Lectures, Pittsburgh Classical Theatre (PICT) and Beth Shalom Jewish Authors Lecture Series. In 2018 sales at Classic Lines rose 11% over the previous year. This increase is well above the industry norm.

And, its customer base continues to grow. Almost every day someone wanders into the store with a

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Busing Available • Flexible Scheduling Spring 2019 | 13 ShadySideAcademy.org/Summer

NEIGHBORHOOD NOTES

Art in the Park

By Moira Egler

As part of the City of Pittsburgh’s commitment to dedicate 1% of the budget of capital projects to public art, a request for proposals was issued to solicit artists to propose designs for public art for the Wightman Park Improvement Project. OOA Designs LLC was selected to design and execute the public art component for the park.

OOA Designs is a collaboration between local Pittsburgh artists Oreen Cohen, Olivia Kissel, and Alison Zapata.

They create aesthetic and functional steel structures that embrace color, form, and nature. For the park, OOA Designs proposed works of art that incorporate themes of nature using designs inspired by insects, leaf cell structures, fungi, and waterfalls.

An open house event was held in December at Carriage House School to get community feedback on the designs and incorporate children’s artwork into the art work. OOA Designs led an activity with children from Carriage House that encouraged them to create shapes and drawings of animals, plants, or anything found in nature. These designs will inform the final product the

The sculpture illustrates the flow of a waterfall over boulders illuminating the eco-conscious re-design of Wightman Park.

project is moving along even as the weather gets colder.

The City is working on construction documents, and will have the project out to bid in March. The ground breaking will be sometime in April, so look out for updates from our office about the event!

Fence bug ornaments will be pieced together from the positive shapes of the boulders and educate the public about the different plant and insect populations.

14 | shuc.org

My back.

My pregnancy.

My solution.

Dear JAA and JCC, Thanks for the excellent, convenient physical therapy provided

by JAA at the JCC. I started going last year when a back injury flared up during my pregnancy. It would have been more challenging without PT/Clinic Director Scott Rosen. He adapted treatment as my body changed, even using JCC’s pool for aqua therapy . . . amazing! My baby arrived and I still visit Scott.

You could say he has my back!

No JCC membership or referrals required.

Most insurances accepted.

For hours & appointments: 412-697-3505 JCC, 5738 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh 15217.

JAA155_PTJCC-FINAL.indd 1

“We’re a family here”

CAMP PROGRAMS FOR ENTERING 2ND – 9TH GRADERS Check out our website to learn more about our different sessions for all ages!

For more information, contact Robin Anderson, Director, at 224-235-4665 or Robin@cyjmid.org.

www.cyjmid.org

Camp Young Judaea Midwest receives tuition assistance support from Hadassah, the Women’s Zionist Organization of America

PT

at the

Sincerely, Laura Ainsman Sohinki

Powe red b y the JA A

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PRESCHOOL THROUGH 8TH GRADE COEDUCATIONAL INDEPENDENT SCHOOL Proudly in the heart of Squirrel Hill 412.521.1907 | www.stedmunds.net

Locally grown, community owned.

Offering a wide range of organic, natural, and local products.

7516 Meade Street Pittsburgh, PA 15208 www.eastendfood.coop 412.242.3598

The OCA Youth Performance Ensemble Presents

The Beauty of Chinese Dance Sunday, May 26, 2019 4-6 PM, doors open 3:30pm

The Rosemary Heyl Theatre 3333 Fifth Ave Antonian Hall at Carlow University Pittsburgh, PA 15213 $8 general; $5 OCA members/Seniors/Students; (Free for Children 12 years old and under) To reserve tickets: marketing@ocapghpa.org

Jewish Community Center of Greater Pittsburgh Join us! Call 412-697-3522 • JCCPGH.org

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Marialyce Knoll, touched by Alzheimer’s, sharing a giggle with Sally, her daughter.

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Come join our team!

The Squirrel Hill Magazine is looking for a part-time advertisement sales coordinator. Flexible hours! Commissionbased! All the nuts you can eat! info@shuc.org

7/28/18 11:51 AM

Heartfelt Thanks

to our most recent donors and members $5000 Barbara and Dave Grover $1000 Jack Buncher Foundation $500-$750 Cynthia Morelock Ben Speiser & Valentina Vavasis Raymond & Harriet Baum McKnight Realty Partners $200-$499 Highmark BlueCross Blue Shield Gina Levine Cherie Maharam Foster Jones Jamini Vincent Davies Arthur “A.J.� Kerr Classic Books and More Victor Rodriquez Steven Hawkins Justin Hsieh Joel Tarr Carol Eibling $100-$199 Lynne Siegel Bruce Rabin & Estelle Comey Irving & Lois Liberman Dalia Belinkoff Melvin & Marcia Soloman Michael Douglas Henderson Martin and Aviva Lubetsky Peter and Sylvia Leo Farrell Ruberstein Liora Weinberg Barbara Carpenter Wayne Gerhold Saundra L. Snyder 18 | shuc.org

$100-$199 (Continued) Peter Davis Daniel & Karon Siewiorek Marian Finegold Amy & Greg Winokur Eveline Young & KaSing Lau Erik & Pam Wagner Steven Irwin Ernest Sota Leah Kamon Deborah Acklin Michael D. Henderson $50-$99 Ben Lecrone Genevieve Cook Barbara Broff Goldman Blair Jacobson Marcus Gottlieb Cornelius Cosgrove Roger Dannenberg Martha Funderbaurgh Daniel Askin & Ronna Harris Footers Cleaners Lynda Wrenn Duane & Chris Seppi Zelda Curtiss Oscar Swan Kathy Callahan Susan & Saul Fineman Alan Bramowitz Alice Buchdahl Asatoshi Maeshiro Peter Koelher Harvey Nathanson Lawrence Dunn Christopher Mark & Mary Denison Stuart Beckerman Roger Dannenberg Todd Derr

Up to $49 Alan & Holly Van Dine Roger Rafson Suzanne Staggenborg Nancy Hetzel Judi R. Pearlman Kenneth and Sara Segel Mary Lu Donnelly Deb Shatten Barry Stein Marshall & Eleanor Hershberg Cheryl Teplitz Ten Thousand Villages Carol Berger Deborah Winn-Horvitz Kathleen Lokay John Soboslay Ingeborg Moran Heather Graham Ashley Piore Marcia Solomon Michael Foley Karen Segal Elizabeth Freed

Dear Neighbor:

Are you a SHUC member?

If you are a member, thank you very much for your support! Your contribution is what makes possible the many projects and programs like the Squirrel Hill Magazine, Lunar New Year in Squirrel Hill, the Squirrel Hill Night Market, SHUC Litter Patrol, O’Connor’s Corner and the Forward-Murray Gateway project just to name a few!

If you have never been a member, or your membership has lapsed, please consider going to our

website now at www.shuc.org and join your neighbors and friends. Fewer than 1% of the 16,500 homes and businesses receiving this free community magazine have made a membership contribution in the last 2 years.

Funders consider the size of our active paid membership when deciding whether we are worthy of support, and elected officials take our advocacy more seriously when they know we are speaking on behalf of a large membership base.

And, if you join between now and May 3rd, your gift could be doubled, thanks to the generosity of a matching gift from our board members through this year’s Challenge Grant Campaign.

Your support is what allows us to continue to preserve, improve, and celebrate the Squirrel Hill community we all love. There’s no other place like it! Give today!

TOGETHER WE ARE MAKING A DIFFERENCE—ONE PROJECT AT A TIME. Name:

Payment Methods Check: Please make payable to

Email:

Squirrel Hill Urban Coalition 5604 Solway Street

Address:

Pittsburgh, PA 15217 Credit Card: Visa or Mastercard Number:

Phone:

CVV (back of card):

Membership Levels:

Signature

$500 Advocate

or go to our secure webiste: www.shuc.org/donate

$200 Neighbor

$100 Friend

$50 Family

$ 25 Individual

Other $

Expiration Date

Consider becoming a sustaining monthly member with a recurring monthly gift that you can pay in a convenient ongoing way!

Yes, please charge my credit card the monthly amount of $5

$10

$15

$20 or please name your gift $

Spring 2019 | 19

REV. LIDDY BARLOW

Executive Minister, Christian Associates of Southwest Pennsylvania, leads regional projects and programs that bring together Protestant, Catholic, and Orthodox Christians to build relationships, work for the common good, and represent the church in the wider community.

FAITH

A CONVERSATION WITH 4 FAITH LEADERS

By Kim Saunders Photo by Jennifer McKinney

SQUIRREL HILL FEATURE

KEEPING THE

WASI MOHAMED

Executive Director, Islamic Center of Pittsburgh, works to unite and empower the diverse community through programs and events in the area of social services, outreach, and education.

In the aftermath of the horrific murders of 11 Jewish worshippers at Tree of Life on Oct 27, the Squirrel Hill community continues to grieve and heal. In a three part series titled Rebounding with Resilience, SHUC has asked prominent faith leaders to share their insights and inspiration for battling hate and unifying the community.

O

n Oct. 27, 11 Jewish worshippers from Tree of

Life, New Light and Dor Hadash congregations were

Faith is the strength by which a shattered world shall emerge into the light.

— HE L E N K E L L E R SOM

SHARMA

Executive Director of AHINSA (Alliance for Humanitarian Initiatives, Nonviolence and Spiritual Advancement), works with a team of volunteers to create and nurture a culture of peace, using and propagating the thoughts and strategies of Mohatma Gandhi.

massacred as they practiced their faith. Like other hate crimes, these murders were shocking, brutal and senseless. In the aftermath, people described the killer as anti-Semitic, and rightly so. His hatred and bigotry of Jews were well documented by his social media rants as well as by his admission at the time of his capture.

While we know how he felt about Jews, we are less sure of why. Why does he—or anyone—harbor such strong hatred against another person or group –often strangers really—who worship differently? As our community, and the country at large, continues to grieve and heal, SHUC continues to seek answers and mobilize for action.

While Squirrel Hill is undeniably the hub of Pittsburgh’s Jewish community, it is also home to people of other religions and cultures. In this first of a three part series

RABBI RON SYMONS

Senior Director of Jewish Life, The Jewish Community Center of Greater Pittsburgh, Center for Loving Kindness and Civic Engagement, focuses his attention on redefining neighbor from a geographic term to a moral concept.

focused on battling hate and encouraging peace and unity, SHUC has asked prominent community and faith leaders to discuss religious intolerance and some of the guiding tenets of their faith traditions.

Why is religion so often a catalyst for conflict? One explanation, offered by Rev. Liddy Barlow, is that people can be blinded by their faith.

20 | shuc.org

“Religion is our attempt to answer the really big

Hinduism, known originally as Santana Dharma (Eternal

questions about what it all really means. The scale of

Way of Life), echoes this perception of evil, relating

those questions means that people can and should take

actions with consequences. However, conscious choice

their answers to them very seriously. Unfortunately,

while available to all is attained by few, explains Sharma,

sometimes people who feel very passionately about their

because most humans are unable to rise above their

own answers begin to feel

limitations without a dedicated self-effort to recognize and learn from them. This is the path to Enlightenment.

that others’ paths are invalid or unworthy. That belief can lead to discrimination and, at worst, to violence,” says

“Most human actions are selfish and egocentric, including

Barlow.

evil designs to impose one’s own belief systems on others and attempts at expanding one’s own tribe at the

Of course, religion is not the sole cause of bigotry and

expense of others,” explains Sharma.

discrimination, and not even a major factor, argues Wasi Mohamed. He cites statistics that reveal that less

Barlow concedes that evil exists in the world but that

than 7 percent of all wars and less than 2 percent of all

“through Jesus Christ, God comes to inaugurate a

people killed in warfare involve a religious cause. “Many

redeemed and restored world where death is not the

violent movements simply used religion as a tool and

end, where sins can be forgiven and where evil will be

not a true motivation,” he says. Political and economic

forever defeated.”

gains, revenge, and greed are also causes for conflict and animosity.

For sOm Sharma, religious intolerance can arise from ignorance—the lack of clear, in-depth objective understanding—of one’s own faith as well as of other faiths. “Portraying one’s own faith as the ONLY right path is perhaps the biggest ignorance and arrogance of all.

Hindu scriptures, known as Vedas, states ‘Truth is one, seekers call it by different names.’”

Tribalism, fear and/or deliberate distortion of “the others” also fuel intolerance and hatred. The Jewish nation has had along legacy of persecution, exile and genocide. “The tribalism that was true thousands of year ago is still true today,” say Rabbi Ron Symons, “and has expanded to racial, political and nationalistic spheres.”

At its root, hatred is a manifestation of evil, and every faith tradition explores reasons why evil exists and what

At its root, hatred is a manifestation of evil, every faith tradition explores reasons why evil exists and what response of the faithful must be.

Mohamed says Muslims are called to respond to evil with goodness. “We are taught not to curse the evil that we cannot change, but to do what we can to make the world better in whatever ways we can. As long as evil exists, so does our obligation to spread light.”

the response of the faithful must be.

“Jewish Wisdom teaches that each one of us is imbued with free choice,” explains Symons. “The evil that exists in the world is the result of people making choices that

amplify evil over goodness.”

Graphic courtesy of Jon Brentzel

Muslims are also expected to practice forgiveness.

“We are taught to follow in the footsteps of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and be passionate and forgiving with everyone, even those who harm us,” he continues.

CONTINUED on page 38

Spring 2019 | 21

ZONE 4 POLICE TIPS

Talk Safety with Officer Schifren If any single goal connects communities, it’s probably the wish to live safely. In this first of three issues devoted to Healing and Connecting Our Communities, remember that one of the best things you can do to prevent crime is to know your neighbors. Keep an eye on each other’s homes, cars, and other property, and be sure to exchange phone numbers, including cellphone numbers.

Then if you ever do notice anything questionable across the street or next door, you can call your neighbor immediately – as you’d want him or her to call you.

Try practicing a little “TLC” — not Tender Loving Care but trying to Think Like a Criminal.

Knowing how thieves and other criminals scheme can help you keep one step ahead.

Of course, if it’s a suspicious or downright dangerous activity, dial 911. When police arrive, they’ll appreciate you providing your neighbor’s number.

And for crime prevention generally? Try practicing a little “TLC” – not Tender Loving Care but trying to Think Like a Criminal. Knowing how thieves and other criminals scheme can help you keep one step ahead. Examples: If you were a criminal who noticed…

•

a delivery truck winding through the neighborhood… might you discreetly follow to see where the driver got no answer and left the package sitting on the porch?

•

a garage door left open late into the night…think you might take a quick look inside, hoping to find a car also left unlocked or some portable power tools?

(Or the $5,000 Persian rug one hapless home-owner had left stored in her unlocked garage.)

•

a pricey bike on the porch… wouldn’t you check to see if it’s actually locked to the railing or is one you can easily take?

•

pretty much anything left unattended – a laptop on a coffee shop table, a smart-phone or wallet on a shopping counter, a purse left unattended in a cart...

Most thieves are opportunists. They watch for peoples’ oversights and then pounce. Don’t make criminal acts easy. Keep an eye on your possessions.

For free weekly crime updates of all Zone 4 neighborhoods, sign up for the WEEKLY SNAPSHOT by emailing david.shifren@pittsburghpa.gov

22 | shuc.org

W

O

T

HE

NE

HO

WS

D

N

LP

By Margy Whitmer with Hadda Sherapan

K ID

S CO

P E W I T H T R A GIC

TS N E V E

I

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E

The tragic shootings at the Tree of Life Synagogue last

aggressively), and they need to be reassured that you’ll

October brought immediate, resounding and heartfelt

take care of them. How can we, as the caring adults in

sympathy from around the world. The media covered the

their lives, help them understand these difficult times

event relentlessly. The atmosphere was filled with shock,

and prepare them (and ourselves) for the next time a

fear and sadness. Little by little, we adults managed

tragic event occurs? (… because we there will be a next

to find ways to cope with our grief; normalize our lives

time.)

again and move on. But what about the young children in our lives, particularly the very young ones who are the

Here are some helpful ideas; based on The Mister Rogers

most vulnerable and who understand the least about

Parenting Book, by Fred Rogers and best practices in early

the world around them? How does this violence affect

childhood.

them and how can we help them cope with future acts of violence?

TRY TO REMAIN AS CALM AS POSSIBLE. Since children can sense your anxiety, they will want to know

Research shows that from the time we’re born, we’re

“who will take care of me?” Let them know that you

complex beings. So it follows that even babies have

will take care of them and that grownups are doing

some sense of what’s going on in their environment and

everything they can to keep children safe. They may feel

as they grow and mature, that ability becomes more

more needy than usual, so it can help to indulge them in

acute. They are more aware of what’s happening around

that need for more affection, more hugs and reassurance

them than we may think. Just as they smile in reaction

that they are safe.

to the warm affection in happier times, during stressful times, young children can sense any anxiety felt by the

ENCOURAGE THEM TO PLAY. Playing is one important

adults in their lives. They pick up on facial expressions of

way children can express their emotions and work on

worry or sadness and may hear bits and pieces of adult

their feeling about the tragic news. Violent themes in

conversations about the events that could upset them.

their play can sometimes become scary and unsafe

Their behavior may change significantly (including more

CONTINUED on page 38

Spring 2019 | 23

SQUIRREL HILL FEATURE

VE

TS

S A IS

ND S C A R Y A S R TE E

SQUIRREL HILL FEATURE Thousands of spectators lined Murray Avenue on a Sunday morning for the Fourth Annual Lunar New Year Parade in Squirrel Hill.

Elected officials and representatives joined Grand Marshal Pier Lee and 25 Asian Pacific American cultural groups and other organizations, who performed and marched the five blocks of Murray.

For more photos of this year’s lunar new year celebration, go to www.shuc.org/lunar-new-year-2019.

24 | shuc.org

4th LUNAR NEW YEAR

PARADE YEAR OF THE PIG

Photographs by Katie Funaki and Scott Schubert

Spring 2019 | 25

SQUIRREL HILL FEATURE

CITY Owner and chef Eric Earnest in kitchen of City Fresh Pasta.

(Photo by Margy Whitmer)

FRESH PASTA

By Margy Whitmer

There’s a relatively new, unassuming culinary gem at 2107

Hoping to add to the family friendly atmosphere, Earnest

Murray Avenue—City Fresh Pasta. Name sound familiar?

put a toy kitchen his daughters no longer played with

Eric Earnest, the chef and owner, has a concession by the

along one wall. On the first day two children from

same name at the Sunday Farmers’Market. Encouraged

different families happily began making food and serving

by the success of his sales there, his love for the

it to their parents! He knew immediately his hunch was a

neighborhood and the constant foot traffic on Murray

good one. The kitchen was there to stay!

Avenue, Earnest decided a business along this strip could be a good next step. Hearing about available commercial

It’s hands-on dining. Customers order when they enter,

space through word of mouth, he acted quickly and was

and when the food is ready, they retrieve it via a pass-

able to open in August of 2018.

through window from the kitchen. Everything is fresh and made on the premises daily.

Earnest wanted to offer fine dining at reasonable prices, in a family friendly atmosphere. He describes

City Fresh Pasta embodies the spirit of family and

his philosophy for the business as “fast paced, casual,

community, so much a part of who we are in Squirrel

but with a fine dining twist approach to the food.”

Hill. Have a great meal with your family and support our

Although primarily a retail business, offering fresh pasta,

newest small business.

a variety of sauces and pierogies made-to-order on-site or to prepare at home; , the adjacent dining area has a personality of its own that is inviting and encourages family interaction.

The decor is spare. Each table offers white paper and crayons so children (and adults!), can be creative as they wait for their food. Those artworks decorate the walls -- some portraying heartfelt emotions about the Tree of Life tragedy, others more whimsical.

26 | shuc.org

Squirrel Hill Coalition JoinJoin thethe Squirrel HillUrban Urban Coalition board members and staff at our annual board members and staff at our annual "SHUC Night Out!" Come get to know your SHUC NIGHT OUT friendly neighborhood community Come get to know your friendly neighborhood organization. community organization.

Tuesday / 5:00 Thursday May 9/June | 5:30 -57:30 pmto 7:30pm Classic Lines Bookstore City Fresh Pasta 5825 Forbes Avenue in Squirrel Hill 2107 Murray Ave in Squirrel Hill Free appetizers and DrinksSpecial and appetizers drinks! thanks to provided.

Classic Lines for sponsoring the evening.

WEAR YOUR SUPPORT Benefiting the Pittsburgh JCC!

Proceeds from t-shirt/tank sales will be donated to Jewish Community Center of Greater Pittsburgh. runintended.com/ collections/5kforpittsburghjcc

SQUIRREL HILL NIGHT MARKET RETURNS THIS SUMMER

JUNE 22 AUGUST 24 SEPTEMBER 28 FOR MORE INFORMATION:

SHUC.ORG/SQUIRRELHILLNIGHTMARKET/

Spring 2019 | 27

GOOD NEWS FROM OUR SCHOOLS

St. Edmund’s Academy Receives Whole Kids Foundation Grant for Community Garden St. Edmund’s Academy in Squirrel Hill is pleased to announce it has received a $2,000 grant from the Whole Kids Foundation, to invest in curriculum development connected to the school’s community garden.

Started in 2016, the community garden at St. Edmund’s Academy, an independent school for students in Preschool through 8th Grade, is a place for students to practically apply their classroom learning in a setting where they can see first­hand the impact of their work.

Through a multigrade curricular experience, students

Preschool gardeners and their teacher Ms. Jen Losego, tending the

follow the process of growing produce from beginning

St. Edmund’s Academy Community Garden

to end. To prepare the space, each year Lower School students weed and clean, while Upper School students use their math skills to plot out irregularly-shaped garden beds. Then together, students plant seedlings at different points throughout the year to learn about the impact of weather and nature on agriculture. As produce grows, students harvest it and vegetables are brought into the cafeteria where the School Chef engages with students to prepare vegetables for food.

“Our students and their teachers have embraced our community garden as an outdoor classroom,” St. Edmund’s Academy Head of School, Dr. Chad Barnett, said. “At St. Edmund’s we know that children need to be outside, and we prioritize those activities. The grant from the Whole Kids Foundation gives our students the resources to take genuine ownership of the gardening process and use the community space for learning, development, and growth.”

The Whole Kids Foundation is dedicated to helping kids eat better and enjoy it. It is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) founded

by Whole Foods Market and guided by the same values, principles, expertise and standards for quality ingredients, food production methods, and nutrition.

28 | shuc.org

OPEN HOUSE Friday, April 5th 9:30 AM

Minadeo is Thriving Minadeo Elementary has had a banner year! Not only has enrollment increased by 17% since September, but students have more opportunities than ever to engage with each other and the community.

In addition to the annual Talent Show—always a community favorite with students showing off their talents ranging from memorizing the periodic table to stand up comedy to choreographed dances—and the return of the homemade dragon to Squirrel Hill’s 2019 Lunar New Year parade, Minadeo has 2 new basketball teams with our School Security Officer, James George as the coach.

Community Day School Celebrates MLK Day with Reflection and Service

Minadeo Principle Michilene Pegher is thrilled to have the

Instead of taking the day off, Community Day School

new teams at Minadeo. “Basketball provides a feeling of

(CDS) took on the essential themes of Martin Luther

community with the school, and among students and our

King Jr. Day for the fourth consecutive year on Monday,

families. The games are standing room only.”

January 21 in a day of learning, service, and reflection.

In a time when the Pittsburgh Jewish community has received an outpouring of love, kindness, and inclusion from across the world, CDS students and faculty rededicated themselves to the pursuit of social justice for all marginalized communities guided by our Jewish values.

MLK Day was a “day like no other” at CDS, with an innovative social justice curriculum developed around the theme of beloved community. Children spent the day participating in lessons and activities to engage with the vital question of how to live out Dr. King’s dream in Pittsburgh―and in 2019.

Members of the new Minedeo basketball team.

The program included a community concert featuring The Afro-Semitic Experience, a school-wide mosaic project, and

The 20 students (10 per team) practice twice a week

a guest panel with Mayor Bill Peduto, Wasi Mohamed,

and play twice a week against five other schools in the

Executive Director of the Islamic Center of Pittsburgh,

Pittsburgh Public Schools district. Moving forward, Ms.

Pastor Tim Smith of the Center of Life in Hazelwood, and

Pegher expects to continue cross-country running and

Yael Silk, Bend the Arc: Pittsburgh leader and Executive

would like to develop a co-ed flag football league.

Director of the Arts Education Collaborative.

Upcoming events at Minadeo include Family Fun Night, on

Next up, the community is invited to join the CDS

Thursday, May 30, which is open to the public for a small

Middle School on Thursday, April 2 at 8:45 a.m. for a

admission fee, and our spring concert. In addition to the

student-led Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day)

usual class field trips, the fifth grade will also be taking a

commemoration at the Gary and Nancy Tuckfelt Keeping

day trip to Niagara Falls in June.

Tabs: A Holocaust Sculpture on our campus.

Spring 2019 | 29

www.luminari.org • (412) 877–1888

TEEN SUMMER CAMPS...

JUNE 11–19, 2019 JUNE 24–27, 2019 Everyday Diplomacy Public Speaking

JULY 8–12, 2019 Culinary Adventure

4 INSPIRING EXPERIENCES • Rising 8th to 12th graders • Space is limited – sign up now!

• Call (412) 877-1888

Luminari programs are sponsored by:

• Brown Brothers Harriman • Schell Games • DJS

Programs are made possible with funding from The Pittsburgh Foundation, The Heinz Endowments, PNC Charitable Trusts & Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation.

HOW WE ENGINEER Equipped with only pencils and rubber bands, eighth graders compete to design and construct the strongest catapult. By following supply and time constraints, students embrace efficiency and creativity in the engineering process.

How will you give your child the tools to engineer success?

BECAUSE “HOW” MATTERS PK-12 • Four Campuses

SHADYSIDEACADEMY.ORG/VISIT

JULY 15–18, 2019 Fantastic Fiction

OPEN HOUSES APRIL 27 – MAY 3

CELEBRATES TEN YEARS Founder’s mission intensifies to create a more harmonious world

By Hilda Fu Memories are mostly pictures, colorful images that make up the mosaic of our years. As I look back on the past decade since the founding of Luminari,

LUMINARI

is a Pittsburgh-based nonprofit organization founded to support and create activities for teens that broaden their minds, inspire innovations and promote community engagement through summer camps at the Ellis School. The target audience of the program is rising 8th to 12th grade.

For an application or questions about the program go to www. luminari.org.

I see the faces of young people visiting national monuments, meeting with community leaders, presenting speeches, sharing meals together and sharing ideas with those who have different points of view.

I started the organization in 2009, with the goal of broadening minds, inspiring innovation and encouraging community engagement through summer camps for teens. We started small and remain small, but like a pebble tossed into a lake, the ripples have a wide-reaching effect. But much has changed, in our region and across the country, since that first summer of camps. More than ever, I am troubled by the incivility and lack of respect in public discussions. I had not expected that ten years after the launch of Luminari, I would start to feel the acute need to double down on our effort to instill the sense of civility, and to make explicit and reaffirm our core values.

Likewise, I could not have predicted the urgency we now face to step up our existing media literacy as a counter offensive to escalating “fake news” problems. It is not overstating things to say our democracy depends on the next generation’s ability to discern factual reporting from biased opinion and outright lies.

These are the kind of provocative conversations we look forward to having with our next class of Luminari campers. We have another precious opportunity this summer to enrich the lives of those who join our programs. I can’t wait to engage with our teenagers to share with them the passion I have for all of our inspiring camps: I Want to be an Ambassador!; Camp Delicious!;

Speak and Tell!; and Teen Writer!

What fun this decade has been for me, to stand amidst all this enthusiasm and energy. I’m more inspired than ever to join my team and our teens in this important work. Now, onward and, as the bright ripples flow, outward—to a kinder, more harmonious world.

Hilda Fu is founder and president of Luminari.

Spring 2019 | 31

GUEST EDITORIAL

LUMINARI

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CALL ME NOW! GET THE RESULTS YOU DESERVE! 32 | shuc.org

Tree of Life * Or L’Simcha, Dor Hadash, and New Light

By Helen Wilson, Vice President, Squirrel Hill Historical Society The towering stained glass windows of Tree of Life * Or L’Simcha were the backdrop for the makeshift memorial for the victims of the shooting. (Photo by Helen Wilson, November 2018)

N

ews reports about the horrific shooting on

Jewish movement. In 1907, they built a synagogue on

October 27, 2018, consistently referred to the synagogue

Craft Avenue in Oakland and in 1916 joined the United

as “Tree of Life.” Its official name is “Tree of Life * Or

Synagogue of America.

L’Simcha.” Two other Jewish congregations also share the building—Dor Hadash and New Light. While these

In 1956, Tree of Life president Charles J. Rosenbloom

congregations interact, each has its own unique identity

donated land on Wilkins Avenue in Squirrel Hill, and

and history.

the present synagogue was built. The central part was dedicated in October 1952, and the congregation moved

Tree of Life Congregation erected its synagogue on

there in 1953. The main sanctuary, begun in 1959, has

Wilkins Avenue in the 1950’s, but the congregation’s

magnificent stained-glass windows made by the Hunt

history extends back more than 150 years. The Tree of

Stained Glass Studios, which are on the national tour

Life Congregations was formed when a group of sixteen

list of historic stained-glass windows. Meanwhile,

families left the Rodef Shalom Congregation in 1864 ,

the building on Craft Avenue became the Pittsburgh

Rodef Shalom was founded around 1847 and was

Playhouse. In the 1970’s Tree of Life partnered with Point

chartered in 1856. The new Orthodox Tree of Life

Park College (now University), but in 2013, the university

congregation held its first services on July 8, 1864, at the

built a new performing arts center downtown. The

Gustave Grafner home on Second Avenue, Downtown.

future of the Craft Avenue building is uncertain.of music,

The congregation was chartered in 1865 and originally

theater and art.

called themselves Etz Chayyim (“Tree of Life”). In 1882, they began using their English name. In 1883 they

In the early 2000’s, in the face of declining membership,

purchased a former church at Ross Street at Fourth

Tree of Life began renting space in its building to other

Avenue. In 1886, they joined the Jewish Theological

congregations. Or L’Simcha (“Light to Joy”) was founded

Seminary Association, aligning with the Conservative

CONTINUED on page 34

Spring 2019 | 33

SQUIRREL HILL HISTORY

One Building, Three Congregations:

CONTINUED from page 31

by Rabbi Chuck Diamond in 2005 and first held services

By the 1950’s, it was commonly known as New Light

in the Anathan House on Murray Avenue. It moved to

Congregation. It was one of the larger synagogues in the

Tree of Life in 2008. The two congregations merged in

Hill District. Changing demographics of the area prompted

2010 and became Tree of Life * Or L’Simcha.

it to move to Squirrel Hill in 1957. The congregation, now Conservative, bought a substantial house on the corner

In 2010, the Dor Hadash Reconstructionist Congregation

of Forbes and Beechwood and opened a sanctuary there.

began to rent space in the building. Dor Hadash (“New

A larger sanctuary was added in 1970, but diminishing

Generation”) was founded in 1963 and first held services

membership made the congregation decide to move. In

in a building on Forbes Avenue and Denniston Street,

2017, the New Light Congregation sold its building to the

moved to Rodef Shalom for a short time, and then

growing Yeshiva Schools and moved into the Tree of Life *

moved to Community Day School on Beechwood

Or L’Simcha building.

Boulevard and Forward Avenue. Dor Hadash is the only Reconstructionist congregation in Pittsburgh and is an

One building, three congregations, four histories, and

affiliate of the Jewish Reconstructionist Communities.

now a shared tragedy. Taken together, Tree of Life *

Members take turns leading services and share in the

Or L’Simcha is a microcosm of Jewish history, not only

administrative aspects of congregational life.

in Squirrel Hill, but in Pittsburgh as well. It is a history of Jewish immigrants facing challenges in a new land,

New Light Congregation’s history predates its presence in

adapting to the conditions they found there, assimilating,

Squirrel Hill. It was the first synagogue to be established

moving to a new neighborhood, creating a tight-

by Orthodox Romanian Jews who settled in the Hill

knit community there, enjoying years of growth and

District in the late 1800’s. When chartered in 1899,

prosperity, then adjusting to changes necessitated by

it was called Roberts Street Ohel Jacob Synagogue

smaller and older congregations, and now dealing with the

(“Tent of Jacob”), and then Oher Chodesh (“New Light”).

effects of an unspeakable crime. We must never forget.

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SQUIRREL HILL HISTORICAL SOCIETY EVENTS Anyone interested in learning more about Squirrel Hill history is invited to attend the meetings of the Squirrel Hill Historical Society, held on the second Tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. at the Church of the Redeemer, 5700 Forbes Ave. Go to squirrelhillhistory.org to view upcoming lectures and events. Please consider joining the SHHS. Membership is only $15 per year ($25 for families). There is no charge for attending the meetings.

MARCH 12: THE HISTORY OF KENNYWOOD PARK Andy Quinn, Kennywood Park historian and Community

MAY 14: GENE KELLY AND THE JEWISH COMMUNITY OF SQUIRREL HILL

Relations Director, will talk about the historic amusement

Eric Lidji, Director of The Rauh Jewish Program and

park that so many generations of Pittsburghers have

Archives, H. J. Heinz History Center, will discuss Gene

enjoyed.

Kelly’s many connections with Jewish Squirrel Hill.

APRIL 6: WALKING TOUR OF THE HILL DISTRICT

JUNE 1: WALKING TOUR OF CHATHAM UNIVERSITY 9:45 am - 12:00 pm | Meeting Place: Mellon Hall,

TUESDAY APRIL 9: THE HISTORY OF DOLLAR BANK

Woodland Road, Chatham University campus.

Details TBA

Note: Portions of the campus are hilly.

SATURDAY MAY 4: WALKING TOUR OF THE SQUIRREL HILL BUSINESS DISTRICT (WITH A SPECIAL FOCUS ON 1970-1990)

JUNE 11: CATAHECASSA SPRINGS ETERNAL

9:45 am - 12:00 pm | Meeting Place: Church of the

Snyder Spring), a prominent feature of Schenley Park and

Redeemer, 5700 Forbes Avenue

recent addition to the City’s Register of Historic Places,

Matthew Falcone, President of Preservation Pittsburgh, will discuss the history of Catahecassa Fountain (and

as well as its future prospects.

“There’s always something to do here to keep you occupied.

You’ll never be bored.”

Coordinated Care Helping Seniors Stay Healthy at Home

-Jim Quinn, retired Marine Machinist

The UPMC Living-at-Home Program is a geriatric care management program that provides peace of mind for seniors and their loved ones.

• Comprehensive in-home assessment

For more information or to schedule a tour at any of our campuses, call 1-800-324-5523, or visit UPMCSeniorCommunities.com.

• Free to eligible seniors 70 or older who live in one of 22 surrounding Pittsburgh neighborhoods For more information, call 412-723-6200 or visit UPMC.com/livingathome.

UPMC LIVING-AT-HOME PROGRAM Affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside is ranked among America’s Best Hospitals by U.S. News & World Report.

36 | shuc.org

Frick Environmental Center 2005 Beechwood Blvd March 16 | 9-11 am Heart Rate Hikes are intended to get your heart rate up through sustained vigoriously paced two hour hikes covering 5 miles through the park.

COMMUNITY MEETING WITH PWSA The Children’s Institute 1405 Shady Ave March 19 | 6:00-7:00 pm

Executive Director Bob Weimer explains more about PWSA Lead Line program. SHUC March Board Meeting to follow.

SMALL BUSINESS RESOURCE FAIR Squirrel Hill Library 5801 Forbes Ave March 21 | 4:30-6:30 pm

RUN TO CURE CYSCTIC FIBROSIS FUNDRAISER Pro Bike + Run 5876 Forbes Ave April 6 | 7:30 am

Train for the Pittsburgh 2019 marathon and donate a minimum of $5 to enjoy a hot meal!

Runs feature mentors, pacers and route support with maps and water stops along the way.

WALKING TOUR OF THE HILL DISTRICT Hill District Carnegie Library 2177 Centre Ave April 6 | 9:45 am - 12:15 pm

Terri Baltimore, Director of Neighborhood Engagement for the Hill House Association, will lead a tour featuring both African American and Jewish sites.

Urban Redevelopment Authority and City of Pittsburgh shares new connections and resources.

BACH’S BIRTHDAY CONCERT Church of the Redeemer 5700 Forbes Ave March 24 | 3-5 pm

Conductor Don Franklin, Chatham Baroque, and other special guests come together for this annual concert and celebration.

Yom H a S hoah COMMEMORATION Community Day School 6424 Forward Ave April 2 | 8:45 am

The community is invited to join the student-led Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day) commemoration at the Gary and Nancy Tuckfelt Keeping Tabs: A Holocaust Sculpture.

SQUIRREL HILL LITTER PATROL SPRING CLEAN-UP Murray and Forbes Ave April 14 | 9 am - 1 pm

Annual clean-up of the Squirrel Hill neighborhood.

(See page 10 for more details) partnership with the Children’s Museum guides participants of all ages through simple activities based on examining and expressing emotions.

CONTINUED on page 39

Spring 2019 | 37

EVENTS AND HAPPENING

HEART RATE HIKES

CONTINUED from page 21

CONTINUED from page 23

Forgiveness is a key moral precept in Christianity,

children. So it can be helpful when there is an adult

Hinduism, and Judaism as well.

nearby to monitor and redirect that play to include to nurturing themes like pretending to be a doctor,

In the Lord’s Prayer, Christians pray to ‘forgive us our

ambulance driver or paramedic.

trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us’. allows us to let go of the worst of our history so that we

DO EVERYTHING YOU CAN TO GET BACK INTO A ROUTINE. The familiarity of daily routines can be

can move forward freely into the future,” explains Barlow.

comforting for everyone—children and adults.

Practicing forgiveness is challenging but necessary. “It

Practicing forgiveness is challenging but necessary. It allows us to let go of the worst of our history so that we can move forward freely into the future.

MAKE PLANS TO DO AN ACTIVITY THAT YOU ENJOY. Go to the nearby playground, make your favorite cookies or read favorite books together. Knowing that even simple activities can help us feel better at and is reassuring to everyone.

Sharma explains that forgiveness is one of the 10

REMIND THEM OF THE HELPERS

major principles or ‘yamas’ of Hinduism, and is often

“When I was a child and would see scary things in the

combined with tenderness, kindness and compassion.

news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers.

“It is absolutely essential for onward movement in

You will always find people who are helping.’ To this day,

relationships,” he says.

especially in times of disaster, I remember my mother’s words, and I am always comforted by realizing that there

Jewish Wisdom teaches that forgiveness is always

are still so many helpers—so many caring people in this

possible. Symons recounts a story of Rabbis from ancient

world.”

days. “Rabbi Helbo asked Rabbi Samuel bar what is meant by the verse, ‘You have covered yourself with a cloud so that no prayer can pass through [Lamentations 3:44]?’ Rabbi Samuel answered, ‘Prayer is similar to a pool, but repentance is similar to the sea. Just as a pool is at times open and at other times locked, so the gates of prayer are at times open and at other times locked.

But the sea is always open, and so, too, are the gates of repentance always open [Lamentations Rabbah 3:43, section 9],” he explains.

While religious beliefs may be unique, faith is the

Photo courtesy of Fred Rogers Productions

common denominator. The Squirrel Hill community has

This quote from Fred Rogers has been used and re-used

a strong faith in a future that will be strengthened by

often during times of tragedy and for good reason. It

diversity and united by tolerance and respect.

reminds us all about how much good there is in the world and gives us hope for the future. We can help children feel more secure by talking with them about the helpers they know—nurses, doctors, firefighters, and

In the next issue, look for part 2 of the Rebounding

paramedics—who help keep everyone safe in their own

with Resilience series: Values that Unite Us

community. Reassuring them that there will always be caring people in the world.

38 | shuc.org

Free drin to C spon

XOXO PROJECT

PITTSBURGH RACE FOR THE CURE

Pop-up mobile exhibit presented by SHUC in partnership with the Children’s Museum guides participants of all ages through simple activties bsed on examining and expressing emotions.

Join Susan G. Komen Greater Pennsylvania at the 27th Annual Pittsburgh Race of the Cure on Sunday, May 12, 2019. Be a part of this special day as we honor and celebrate individuals in our communities whose lives have been affected by breast cancer.

Corner of Forbes and Murray avenues April 14 | 11 am - 2 pm

EARTH DAY COMMUNITY CAMPFIRE Fall Ravine Shelter Lower Frick Park Play Area April 20 | 6-9 pm

Join Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy for an all-ages community campfire under the stars.

Bring your own hot dogs and s’more fixings.

Schenley Park May 12 | 6:30 am - 1 pn

GENE KELLY & THE JEWISH COMMUNITY Church of the Redeemer 5700 Forbes Ave May 14 | 7:30 pm

Eric Lidji, Director of The Rauh Jewish Program and Archives, H.J. Heinz History Center, will discuss Gene Kelly’s many connections with Jewish Squirrel Hill.

ALLDERDICE DRAGONS 5K RACE Join theNIGHT SquirrelOUT Hill Urban Coalition SHUC board members and staff at our annual City Night Fresh Pasta "SHUC Out!" Come get to know your 2107 Murray Ave friendly neighborhood community May 9 | 5:30-7:30 pm organization.

Schenley Park Oval 1, Overlook Drive 5700 Forbes Ave May 19 | 10:00 am

Race starts at Schenley Park Oval. Race Packet can be picked up at Pro Bike+Run on Friday and Saturday (May 8 & 9) and Come with questions for the SHUC board Tuesday /June 5 / 5:00 to 7:30pm the morning of the race. Proceeds benefit members and staff and enjoyLines food and drink.

“Allderdice Runners” and the Allderdice Classic Bookstore 5825 Forbes Avenue in Squirrel Hill Athletic department.

MOTHER’S DAY WINE WALK

Squirrel and Hill Business District e appetizers May 11 |thanks 4-8 pm nks! Special Classic Lines for nsoring the evening.

Enjoy tastes of fine wine, treats, and

discounts while roaming the business district with friends and family.

WALKING TOUR OF CHATHAM UNIVERSITY Mellon Hall, Woodland Road, Chatham University campus June 1 | 9:45 am - 12:00 pm

For details, visit shuc.org/calendar

Spring 2019 | 39

EVENTS AND HAPPENING

CONTINUED from page 37

When you think of the people of Squirrel Hill, you think of a diverse group of people from all different walks of life.

There is an eclectic mix of ethnic backgrounds and beliefs. The people are hard-working and caring. They have a sense of pride as they are proud to be part of a community where neighbors help neighbors.

The real estate agents in our office are no different. They are diverse, caring, and hard-working people who are proud to be part of the Squirrel Hill community.

When you need us, we are here to help you, our neighbors.

40 | shuc.org A member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates, LLC

Angel Winters BRANCH MANAGER

Sara Leitera 412.600.0569

Lexi Mayorova 412.452.0405

Liudmila Kucherenko 412.973.8369

Joseph Pegher 412.295.5275

Frances Kimbrough 412.298.3320

Loretta Zelenko 412.855.6709

Tamara Davis 412.447.8570

Christine DeCarolis 412.417.7845

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices The Preferred Realty City Office 1935 Murray Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15217 412.521.5100 • www.ThePreferredRealty.com