community review 6 24 16

June 24, 2016 | 18 Sivan, 5776 | Vol. 90; No. 13Published by The Jewish Federation of Greater Harrisburg | Greater Harrisburg’s Jewish Newspaper

www.jewishharrisburg.orgcommunity review

A Message from the Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees of the Jewish Federation of Greater Harrisburg

Margie Adelmann will be retiring when her contract ends in July and will be stepping down as the President and CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Harrisburg.

Our organization has been in wonderful hands under Margie’s leadership. Over the past three years, she and her staff helped to protect the building from future floods, increased enrollment at the Brenner Family Early Learning Center and expanded its programming, increased corporate memberships and involvement, expanded participation in EITC and grant funded projects, restarted our leadership development program, improved communication and relations among Jewish agencies in all of Central PA, and enhanced building security, to name just some of many successes. We thank Margie for her dedication, energy, and leadership, and we look forward to having her continue to be part of our community.

With the unanimous approval of the Board of Trustees at the June Board meeting, we are pleased to announce that Jennifer Ross will assume Margie’s position as President and CEO. As the current Chair of the Federation’s Board of Trustees, Jenn knows the ins and outs of the organization. The Executive Committee recruited Jenn to the position thanks to her years as a professional in the nonprofit sector and significant Jewish community leadership experience.

Jenn went through the same interview process used to hire Margie three years ago. She will commence her role as President and CEO on July 12th. Margie has agreed to assist Jenn in this transition throughout the summer.

Plans for community-wide events to thank Margie for her tremendous service and welcome Jenn to her new position are in the process of being developed, but we wanted to share these important announcements with everyone as soon as possible.

A full article about Jenn will appear in the July 8th issue of Community Review.

ANOTHER ATTENDANCE RECORD FOR THE JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL!

It’s a new record for the Harrisburg Jewish Film Festival, with sell-out screenings and more than 1100 guests enjoying our 22nd season.

Kicked off at the JCC with the live appearance of filmmaker Melissa Donovan with her inspiring documentary “Zemene,” the Festival continued at the Midtown Cinema for a week of films that had audiences roaring with laughter, shedding tears, and congregating afterward to discuss the complexities of the human spirit.

Our Book Club film, “Focus,” drew an unprecedented crowd, with much of the audience staying on for Helen Khanzhina’s illuminating post-screening discussion. Gayle Kirschenbaum presented her jaw-dropping documentary “Look at Us Now, Mother!” to a packed house, and our closing event, “Deli Man,” was a crowd-pleasing, Zabar’s-catered sell-out.

The riotous “Serial (Bad) Weddings” was the Audience Favorite among the Festival’s comedies, with “Zemene” just eking out “Deli Man” for Favorite Documentary. “Secrets of War” was voted Favorite Drama.

This season the Film Festival not only presented movies that portrayed tikkun olam, but was also able to participate directly in repairing the world. Ticket sales from “Zemene,” the opening event generously underwritten by Gail and Conrad Siegel, have been donated to Rick Hodes’s mission to provide spinal surgery to afflicted children in Ethiopia, as well as to Melissa Donovan’s drive to bring a school and a well to Zemene’s village. (If you too would like to help with either of these missions, please visit www.rickhodes.org or www.zemenefilm.com/outreach.)

As well, the encore screening of “Rosenwald” was well-attended, allowing us to add to the Harrisburg Public Schools Foundation fund we helped create after our special event with filmmaker Aviva Kempner in March, to fund arts education and programming in the Harrisburg schools.

And if you are one of the many people who are still talking about “Look at Us Now, Mother!” and would like to transform your own difficult relationships or join Gayle Kirschenbaum’s “forgiveness movement,” we are happy to share Gayle’s website, www.gaylekirschenbaum.com.

The Film Festival committee thanks Linda Schwab and the Shlomo Zalman Krevsky Fund of the Jewish Community Foundation of Central Pennsylvania for their generous sponsorship of individual films and special events (“Secrets of War” and “Deli Man,” respectively), as well as the rest of our loyal Friends and corporate sponsors. We also thank the community at large for making the Film Festival “the place to be” in May, and look forward to sharing another great season of films with you in 2017. See you at the movies – next year!

Filmmaker Melissa Donovan with event sponsors Gail and Conrad Siegel and JFF chair Julie Sherman

Jewish Film Festival Committee

2 | community review | greater harrisburg’s jewish newspaper

CommunityReview

Vol. 90 No. 12June 10, 2016

(ISSN 1047-9996)(USPS 126-860)

Published bi-weeklyby the Jewish Federation of

Greater Harrisburg,3301 N. Front Street,

Harrisburg, Pa., 17110. Subscription rate: $50 per year.

Periodicals postage paid atHarrisburg, Pa., and

additional entry office.

Editorial Board MembersMargie Adelmann

Esther BoldesRabbi Carl Choper

Aaron DymRita Gordon

Jeanette Krebs

StaffEditor

Ivy [email protected]

Interim Sales DirectorChristina Townley

717-233-0109, ext. 112ctownley@

benchmarkgroupmedia.com

Design and LayoutBenchmark Group Media

Graphic DesignerShawn Skvarna

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.

A copy of the official registration and financial information of the Jewish Federation of Greater Harrisburg may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling, toll free within Pennsylvania, 1-800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.

A Message from Margie Adelmann, CEOJewish Federation of Greater Harrisburg

It’s hard to believe that I am writing my last message for Community Review. Sometimes it seems like just yesterday that I walked into the JCC and other days it seems like I have been here a lifetime! When I accepted the position a little more than 3 years ago my hope was that I could make a positive impact on the Jewish community. I am not one to easily accept accolades and praise and have been truly humbled by the outpouring of thanks and recognition of the many accomplishments we have had as an organization since I walked through those doors 3 years ago!

The Jewish Federation of Greater Harrisburg has a long history of leadership both volunteer and staff. This was especially evident to me as we celebrated 100 years of the JCC last year and remembered so many of our founders as we commemorated their contributions to our rich history. As I join the ranks of those that have led I am grateful to have been given the opportunity to learn from and work alongside our dedicated and hardworking staff and our committed volunteers.

I look forward to working together with Jennifer Ross who will take the helm on July 12th as the President and CEO to begin the next chapter of the Jewish Federation of Greater Harrisburg. I have had the opportunity to work with Jenn on several committees and as the current Board Chair and have complete confidence in her ability to build upon our successes, face our challenges head on, and lead the Federation well into the future. We will work together over the summer along with our volunteer leadership and staff to ensure a seamless transition.

I will miss the many wonderful and caring people with whom I have worked (both volunteers and staff ) the many members that I see regularly coming through our doors and chat with, as well as the numerous challenges and adventures this job presented. I will not be a “stranger” but have committed to taking the first year of my retirement to catch my breath (as others who have retired before me have advised). I look forward to joining you in the audience at programs and events and to in time volunteering in some capacity in this community that I call home.

Thank you for having confidence in me and for giving me an incredible opportunity to make a positive impact on my Jewish community. I will forever be proud of the accomplishments we have achieved together!

L’Shalom,

GREEN HILLS HOURS OF

OPERATION FOR 2016

SEASON

Thank you for your patience

this summer as we rebuilt our

Pump House. Green Hills hours

of operation are Monday-Friday

4pm-7:30pm and Saturday and

Sunday 11am-8pm. Every JCC

membership includes a Green

Hills membership! Green Hills

is also available to rent to our

members for a nominal price. For

rental information please contact

Beth Romano at 717-236-9555

x3204.

MonDay, JuLy 4Independence Day- federation offices Closed

Fitness Center open 7am-2pmPool open 7am-12pm

For a full list of community activities, please visit

www.jewishharrisburg.org and click on theCommunity Calendar.

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT

mark your calendars

www.jewishharrisburg.org | june 24, 2016 | 3


AARP SAFE DRIVING

REFRESHER COURSE

For those of you who have taken

the AARP Safe Driving Class three

years ago, there will be three more

classes given in 2016. The classes

will be given on Thursday, July

7th, Thursday, September 8th and

Thursday, November 3rd. The class

runs from 12:30-4:30PM. Since this

class is concentrated, in order for the

instructor to have your certification

cards prepared ahead of time, when

you register, you will need to have the

following information ready:

Name

Address

Phone number

Date of Birth

8-digit Driver’s License Number and

expiration date

To get discount your AARP

membership number

YOU MUST BE ABLE TO SHOW A

COPY OF YOUR LAST

AARP SAFE DRIVING COURSE

CERTIFICATE

Class size is limited to 32 people

and the cost is (as of Jan.1, 2014) $20

(check made payable to AARP) or if

you are an AARP member you get a

$5 discount. To register, call Cheryl at

236-9555 Ext. 3115


Quality Insights Quality Innovation Network’s Everyone with Diabetes Counts (EDC) program is partnering with Jewish Federation of Greater Harrisburg to provide free diabetes education in Dauphin County and surrounding areas.

The EDC program is a national initiative of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). It is administered by Quality Insights in PA as well as WV, NJ, LA, and DE. The program offers free classes that are open to people with diabetes, their family members and caregivers. The classes are designed to help participants take control of their diabetes and change their life. Individuals with pre-diabetes can also benefit from these classes.

Who: Quality Insights/Everyone with Diabetes Counts

What: Free Diabetes Education Classes

When: Tuesdays and Thursdays starting June 21st, June 23rd, June 28th, June 30th, July 5th and July 7th 1:30pm to 3:00pm

Where: Jewish Federation of Greater Harrisburg 3301 N. Front St. Harrisburg, PA 17110

Why?: Participants will learn about diabetes risks, nutrition, weight management, how to properly manage medications and much more. Past participants have reported weight loss, improvement of lab results and a decrease in medications.

To register for classes, please contact Angie Alwood at # 877-346-6180 Ext: 7625 or email [email protected]. Visit www.qualityinsights-qin.org for more information.

Diabetes Program Partners with Jewish federation of Greater Harrisburg to offer free Classes

The Silver Academy launched our school store under a new name, Ollie Rosenberg’s School Store, on Friday June 3rd. Students started the morning being able to purchase everything from glow sticks to bouncy balls to pencils at the student council sponsored school store. Our student council members learned about how to run a business from inventory to staffing to floor layout to the difference

between gross and net profits. These students gained practical experience on creating a business. They used the proceeds to make donations to the IDF and buy ice cream for all of their school mates. After the school store, Peggy Grove shared a little about Ollie Rosenberg, z’l and his business. She spoke of the importance of Tzedukah and supporting your community. Peggy told the story of whenever

SCHOOL STORE RENAMING

they saw a tractor trailer overturned on the highway, they would joke, “I wonder what will be for sale next week at Ollie’s.” Peggy presented a framed picture of Ollie for The SIlver Academy to hang in honor of the gift and in Ollie’s memory. Our students are fortunate to benefit from role models who give of themselves to help make our community better.


The Jewish Federation of Greater Harrisburg Board of Trustees mourned the loss of Federation past President Marilynn Kanenson (z’l) and observed a moment of silence at our recent meeting Board. In honor of her life’s work and her service to the Jewish community of Greater Harrisburg we are including Rabbi Peter Kessler’s eulogy.

We gather to honor the memory of Marilynn Roth Kanenson, who passed away peacefully yesterday morning at home, surrounded by her loving family. Marilynn was 82.

Marilynn was raised in Northampton Pennsylvania, a daughter of the late Joseph and Martha Roth. She was preceded in death by her brother Richard Roth as well as her husband, Dr. William L Kanenson.

She spent her childhood in Allentown, and left after High School graduation to travel to Europe and attend the World's Fair. Even as a young woman, Marilynn knew what she wanted and it was hazardous even then to get in the way of her when she was “on a mission”. Her father thought that women were girls who need to find husbands and marry. Marilynn was sure to find her husband, but on her own terms. She wanted to see the world first, and she was a woman who never needed someone to tell her what to do and whom to be. Her journey was chronicled in the local paper and pictures were attached including her riding in a police motorcycle sidecar in France. She may have been serious in her pursuits, but she always wanted a little fun, too.

Marilynn moved to New York City in 1951 where she attended both Berkley Secretarial School as well as Barnard College. She worked in New York until 1957 for the Sonnenberg Agency, at the time the largest public relations firm in the country. Marilynn loved her job, taking care of the executives and their clients…who included many Broadway and Hollywood stars of the 50’s. She shared taxicabs with the likes of Bette Davis, and could still spot a celebrity on the streets of New York as recently as last year. But educating herself was one of her priorities, so she returned to Pennsylvania where she later graduated from Penn State University with a degree in Humanities.

In 1959 she met the love of her life, Dr. William Kanenson, on a blind date during Labor Day weekend. They were married a few months later. Marilynn and Bill were fiercely devoted to each other until his death in 2005. Theirs was truly a love story. They lived in Philadelphia when Bill was in residency at Jefferson Hospital, and then the Kanensons came here to Harrisburg in 1961, when he went into private practice as a physician, and she began her career as a “physician’s wife”, one of her full time jobs.

Marilynn and Bill were blessed with their children Marcy, in 1961, and then Ross, in 1964. Marcy & Ross…you remember your mother as a pillar of courage and strength. When other moms were pouring tea at the PTA, your mom was running for public office. She taught you both the importance of creating change, of being blind to a person’s skin color, of accepting everyone no matter their socio-economic stature in life, and truly caring about making the world a better place through volunteering.

Yes, your mother was one tough customer. She had high expectations for both of you, and at the same time, she had high expectations of herself as well. Marilynn never did anything halfway, and God save you if you tried to take the easy way out of a task that she felt was important. She also became a tireless community volunteer in Harrisburg and spent her lifetime devoted to her many causes which included: President, Tri-County Mental Health Association, Chairman of the Dauphin County Mental Health Board, Chairman of the Women's Division of the United Jewish Appeal, Chairperson of the Finance Committee for the Pennsylvania Association for the Blind. She was a Board Member of: Planned Parenthood, The Harrisburg Symphony, The Dauphin County Library, Susquehanna Art Museum, Temple Ohev Sholom, Common Cause and Common Roads.

In the 1970s she served on the area Congressman's Committee to interview applicants for admission to the Service Academies.

To raise money for Temple Ohev Sholom, she organized concerts with two world-renowned Opera legends to come to Harrisburg to perform. In 1976, Beverly Sills and in 1981, Luciano Pavarotti, both of whom she continued to correspond with on a personal level long after the concerts had concluded.

For over 30 years, Marilynn had been an instructor at Harrisburg Area Community College teaching non-credit continuing education courses on investments.

She was invited to the inauguration of President Jimmy Carter, and traveled to Washington DC with her good friend Lee Spitalny to attend the festivities. Seventeen years ago she founded a Women's Interfaith Group made up of women from the three major religions who meet monthly with various speakers from all faiths.

In 2010 Marilynn was selected as a living legacy for the Harrisburg Living Legacy Series created by the SusqueCentennial Commission to help celebrate the city of Harrisburg's 150th year of incorporation. The legacy contributors were nominated by the public-at-large and selected by a Citizen's Advisory Board. The selected contributors chosen to tell their stories were a mix of people that were seen as the heart and soul of the city based on both their achievement and inspiration-both of which Marilynn epitomized.

Marilynn loved her community, her synagogue, and yes, her church as well…she

was a member of the Unitarian Church in Boiling Springs not because she was tired of being a Jew, but because she wanted to support a community whose mission was helping the disadvantaged…and the Unitarian Church became another institution that she supported because of the good work done within, and outside, its walls.

Marilynn had a great sense of adventure, living life to its fullest. She was an avid traveler and her journeys included: Hot Air Balloon ride over African Safari country, Camel rides at the Pyramids in Egypt and just two years ago, did the "March of the Living" trip in Poland to visit the concentration camps and then travel to Israel with the graduating Seniors from Harrisburg’s Hebrew High.

Last year, she and her family purchased a condo at the beach in Lewes, Delaware where she absolutely loved spending time.

She loved the theater, opera, the symphony, reading, going to the movies, playing golf and spending time with her family. She loved to eat, and whenever she travelled with Bill, or anyone else in her family, the trip’s itinerary not only include the sights, but also the menus at the local restaurant. Marilynn was a foodie before anyone knew what one was…she loved to eat…and she loved to eat well.

Anyone who knew her knew she had a great sense of style, a wonderfully curious mind, a great sense of humor and a deep sense of caring placing the needs of others before her own. Her tireless devotion to the community and her friends and family will be missed by so many of us, people from other faiths, backgrounds, cultures, and walks of life who are here because of the way she touched us all with her kindness and generosity. She was one of a few people I have ever met who possessed a razor-sharp mind that could converse on any subject at all, while still maintaining her sense of humanity…whenever one of us would ask Marilynn how she was doing, even in the years when she struggling with one kind of illness or another, she would always change the subject and ask about us…and ask in the most caring and compassionate way, because she really cared about other people. Marilynn was a trusting soul. She believed in the goodness each of us possessed, and she tried her best to emulate proper behavior, in the way she spoke, in the way she kept her home, the way she dressed, and the way she presented herself. She believed in being on time, and having the highest expectations of those around her, and of herself.

Sure, Marilynn could be abrasive…most fighters are. She really was more of a gladiator than a politician…she fought for the disadvantaged every day of her life and when you take on such a herculean task, you often ruffle a few feathers. Marilynn didn’t mind ruffling a few feathers if it meant that her task of righting a wrong was complete…and you know, there’s nothing wrong with that. Deep down inside Marilynn was a very sensitive soul…fair, honest, and really quite lovable when you got to know her. She inspired so many people to reach higher, love more deeply, and live life in ways many of us in this chapel never thought possible.

Marilynn became a stockbroker in 1978 and worked tirelessly until, well, probably yesterday morning. Her job was all consuming to her, and she loved every minute. She loved watching Bloomberg on the television and keeping up with the market not only because it interested her, but also because it was a vehicle to help her clients be more successful with their investments. Even when she was working in a non-volunteer capacity, her motives were to be helpful…and she was helpful wherever she went…either to a board meeting or a meeting with a client…her goal was always to be helpful to the person sitting with her at the table.

So how will we remember her? We will remember her whenever a person of color or a marginalized woman is elected to public office, whenever the rights of the gay & lesbian community are protected, whenever disadvantaged children are granted the rights everyone deserves. We will remember her at all of the Stuart and Friends Concerts that will continue to take place at the symphony, when we all donate books to the library, or support the two Jewish Group Homes that she championed because if there was a Group Home, why not a Jewish Group Home too? And I will remember her always whenever I walk into this chapel and see this beautiful stone wall that she created in memory of her beloved Bill…a wall that we worked on together for at least a year, making sure every stone was perfect, and perfectly placed.

And with everything said, Marilynn’s legacy is really only beginning. She has inspired Marcy & Lindsey, and Ross & Marion to continue her good work, to be philanthropic and kind, generous and giving, and righting the wrongs that now will take all of us to try as hard as we can to find even a spark of the vast energy that she possessed. Her legacy is found in the love she had for her sister Adele, and brother-in-law Bernard. And her legacy is found in one of the greatest joys of her life…her granddaughter, Riley.

Riley…your grandma talked about your accomplishments at school and at the temple every time we saw her. Her face lit up whenever she was near you, and she had boundless energy and love for you. She was so proud of you. You were such a blessing to her, and all of us will think of your grandmother every time we get to see you.

May Marilynn Kanenson’s memory remain for us as a blessing, and let us all say AMEN.

Remembering a Community Leader Silver Academy Board Annual Meeting


On Monday, June 6, 2016, The Silver Academy Board held its annual meeting. Over 60 people, including board members, faculty, parents, and community members met to hear about the year in review, as well as to participate in the installation of the incoming slate of officers.

Outgoing President Andrea Lieber shared her thoughts on her Presidency of the past six years. Reflecting on the recommendations of the Joint Task Force on Jewish Education convened by the JFGH and The Silver Academy in 2009, Andrea expressed great pride in knowing that many elements of the vision crafted by this diverse group of leaders have today been actualized. Her leadership has been dedicated to nurturing both excellence and inclusivity in all areas of school life, affirming the Torah and its ethical precepts as the inheritance of every Jewish child. To this end, all of our community’s rabbis now come regularly to the school and participate in its activities, helping to build bridges with all of our local congregations. Andrea noted that while there have been many changes implemented, the school’s philosophy is still very much in line with the founding vision of Rabbi David L. Silver, who aimed to provide the best education in Jewish and General studies to every Jewish child in the Harrisburg community.

Andrea challenged the audience, asking “How do we know that the Silver Academy provides a stellar Jewish and general studies education? After all, every school makes those claims. How can we be sure what we claim is true?” Among the answers given was the demonstrated success of Silver Academy alumni, the excitement for learning shown by current students, and the priceless values inculcated each day. Andrea shared that she is most moved by the parents of alumni who have long graduated, and who continue to give countless hours and dollars to support The Silver Academy, and who attribute the mensch-like qualities of their children to their time in the school.

Dr. Lieber shared that approximately 65-70 students are enrolled for the incoming school year. While this may seem like a small number compared with past generations, this figure represents nearly one third of the population of Jewish students currently enrolled in formal Jewish educational programs in the Harrisburg area, a much higher percentage of children attending day school than major metropolitan areas.

The incoming class represents a retention rate of 90% from previous years, including an incoming Kindergarten class of 16 students. Director of Admissions Jackie Rubin has worked hard at building ties to the current pre-school classes in collaboration with the Brenner Family Early Learning Center. ELC students have enjoyed monthly visits to The Silver Academy classrooms and shared special events throughout the year. In addition, Shabbat Across Harrisburg, an initiative in which synagogues throughout the community hosted Silver students and families, was a big success, and enabled students to interact with many different congregations, sharing what they have learned in school.

Many faculty members were in attendance at the meeting, highlighting the strong relationship that the board and the faculty share together, under the leadership of Dr. Lieber. The Principal's report from Rachel Zilbering included a recognition of the real fiscal challenges faced by the school as a result of the late passage of the state budget. EITC funds, critical for meeting Silver’s budgetary requirements, were held until late December, and textbook funding was held until mid-January. However, Rachel Zilbering noted The Silver Academy faculty upheld the mission of the Jewish Day School even when it was difficult, succeeding in wonderful school events such as Mitzvah Day on MLK Day, successfully implementing learning in multi-age classrooms, and in creating a dynamic atmosphere of Judaic and general studies learning for the current student body.

Shari Dym, Director of Development, noted “I used to sell pens, now I sell mitzvahs” which got a laugh from the audience. She added, “There is nothing more important than supporting education.” The loss of EITC dollars due to the elimination of the capital stock tax will deeply affect next year’s EITC funding. However, individuals can now participate in an SPE (Special Purpose Entity) as a way to support The Silver Academy with their PA tax dollars. The forms need to be filed on July 1, 2016, and she is available for consultation and support in the documentation.

It is important to note that because of the increase in enrollment, Silver Academy families are requesting $130,000 more in scholarship dollars than are available in our budget, and the development office is working non-stop to help make The Silver Academy accessible to many students for the new academic year. While the Silver Academy Foundation, under the co- leadership of Morton Spector and Lee Siegel has been supporting the budget shortfalls over the years, the loss of EITC dollars has meant that the Foundation needs to be replenished in order to continue to grow its dividends. It was also noted that to demonstrate its support for the school, the JFGH agreed to waive the remainder of the rent owed to the Federation this fiscal year, providing important budgetary relief at a critical time.

The new slate of officers was elected at the close of the meeting, with Holly Engelman as President, and new members Miriam Weinstock, Mandy Cheskis, Seena Chriti, Emily Halper, and Oren Yagil. Dr. Lieber was recognized for her extraordinary contributions to the school with words written by Rabbi Muroff “Andrea, your thoughtful, positive, and constructive presidency has enabled the Silver Academy to continue and expand its sacred Jewish mission to educate the children of our community. There are no words to adequately thank you for both what you have done and the mentschlich and inclusive ways you have one it. Yishar kochech!” Dr. Lieber was presented with artwork by Susan Leviton to commemorate her service to our community.

Silver Academy Board Annual Meeting

In April of this year, the Jewish Federation’s Women’s Philanthropy and Hadassah jointly hosted an educational women’s program about Inspirational Jewish Women, with guest speaker Maly Jackson. The committee selected ten women throughout history to highlight, even though the selection process was

difficult because there are so many worth candidates. Each woman’s story was discussed in small groups at the program, followed by Jackson sharing her personal story of immigration from Ethiopia to Israel. The program was such a success, we wanted to share the stories of these inspirational women with the community. Please enjoy this first story and look for the others in upcoming issues.

Gracia Mendes Nasi (1510 - 1569): Saved thousands of Jewish lives during the Inquisition

Gracia Mendes Nasi, born in Portugal and forced to convert to Catholicism during the Inquisition, became one of the wealthiest Jewish women in Renaissance Europe and used her position to save the lives of thousands of Crypto-Jews. Following the death of her husband, Dona

Gracia took over the operations of the family’s European banking, trading and shipping entities. She then moved to Antwerp, where she delayed the commencement of the Portuguese Inquisition by sending bribes to the Pope. At that same time, however, she created a secret escape network for her fellow conversos from Portugal and Spain by using her spice ships to help them escape to Tiberias (then a part of the Ottoman Empire). She has been credited with one of the earliest attempts at Zionism for her creation of settlements in Tiberias to help these Jewish refugees find a new home.

New York City designated a Dona Gracia Day in June 2010, and Philadelphia followed suit a year later. In October of 2010 Israeli President Shimon Peres paid tribute for the first time to Dona Gracia as a Zionist before her time. Not only has a museum commemorating her life been built in Tiberias, but she has even been given her own Facebook page.

Save-the-Date for our next event on Sunday, September 25th

“Renewal, Reflecting, Rejuvenating”Contact Ivy Schneider for more details at [email protected]

or 717-236-9555 x3299.

Inspirational Jewish Women Series


Classes available at the Jewish Community Center: SilverSneakers® CLaSSIC – Have Fun and move to the music through a variety

of exercises designed to increase muscular strength, range of movement, and activities for daily living. Hand-held weights, elastic tubing with handles, and a SilverSneakers ball are offered for resistance. A chair is available if needed for seated or standing support. Tuesday/Thursday mornings 9:15 -10:15 a.m. Drop-in Fee $7.00 per class. Free to JCC members, SilverSneakers® and Silver and Fit participants.

SilverSneakers® CaRDIofIt – SilverSneakers® CardioFit is an advanced group exercise class designed for active adults who desire a safe and effective low-impact cardiovascular workout. Energizing and easy-to-follow movements promote heart-healthy, total-body conditioning to increase cardiovascular and muscular endurance. In addition, a variety of strength training options are offered to provide a well-rounded workout. Mondays at 10:45-11:45 a.m. Drop-in Fee $7 per class. Free to JCC members SilverSneakers® and Silver and Fit participants.

SilverSneakers® CIRCuIt – Combine fun with fitness to increase your cardiovascular and muscular endurance power with a standing circuit workout. Upper- body strength work with hand-held weights, elastic tubing with handles and a SilverSneakers ball is alternated with low-impact aerobic choreography. A chair is used for standing support, stretching and relaxation exercises. Wednesdays at 10:45-11:45 a.m. Drop-in Fee $7 per class. Free to JCC members, SilverSneakers® and Silver and Fit participants.

SilverSneakers® yoGa – SilverSneakers Yoga will move your whole body through a complete series of seated and standing yoga poses. Chair support is offered to safely perform a variety of seated and standing postures designed to increase flexibility, balance and range of movement. Restorative breathing exercises and final relaxation will promote stress reduction and mental clarity. Mondays and Wednesdays 11:45-12:30 p.m. Drop-in Fee $7 per class. Free to JCC members, SilverSneakers® and Silver and Fit participants.

Gentle yoga – Easy stretching Poses for those with intermittent back issues or those new to Yoga, restorative breathing exercises and stress relief are emphasized. One must be able to get down on to floor. For the summer Thursdays at 5:00-5:45 p.m. Drop-in Fee $7 per class. Free to JCC members, SilverSneakers® and Silver and Fit participants.

Zumba Gold – The class introduces easy-to-follow Zumba choreography that focuses on balance, range of motion and coordination. Perfect for beginners, or older adults. Thursdays at 11:00-11:45 a.m.

SilverSneakers® SPLaSH – Activate your urge for variety! Splash offers

fun, shallow water movement to improve agility and flexibility while addressing cardiovascular, strength and endurance conditioning. No swimming ability is required and a SilverSneakers® kickboard or other aquatic equipment is used to improve strength, balance and coordination. Mondays/Wednesday 9:30 -10:30 a.m. Drop-in Fee $7 per class. Free to JCC members, SilverSneakers® and Silver and Fit participants.

The Jewish Community Center is offering the following senior events:

Every Tuesday at 9:15 a.m.-10:15 a.m. SilverSneakers Classic10:30AM – Bridge, on the day we have our Business Meeting

(usually the 1st Tuesday of the month)10:30am Bridge the last Tuesday of the month

Every Thursday at 9:15 a.m.-10:15 a.m. – SilverSneakers Classic

Senior Lunch will be served Tuesdays and Thursdays at Noon. Reservations are preferred two days in advance if possible,

but no later than 4:00PM the day before. Call Cheryl 236-9555 EXT. 3115

After Lunch Programs are:June 28, 2016 - Bridge Bruce’s Way, 10:30am-11:30am.After Lunch: Barbara Tranin Blank will present a book review on her book, “Mary Sachs, Merchant Princess”.June 29, 2016 – Day Trip to the Fulton Theatre to see “Footloose”June 30, 2016 – Early 4th of July Party with Al Goodman, leading us in a Patriotic Sing-A-Long!July 5, 2016 –10:30am-11:30am- Bridge Bruce’s WayAfter lunch: “Senior Moments” a show presented by The Puppet and Story Works: Ventriloquism, puppetry, storytelling, song and laughter!July 7, 2016 – Puzzle Day: Let’s solve Crossword Puzzles as a group!July 12, 2016 – Business Meeting/Birthday PartyJuly 14, 2016 – Game Day: I have 5 card tables. Let’s play Bridge(bring your cards), Mah Jongg, Rummicube, or bring your favorite game to share or teach others.July 19, 2016 – Current Events with Herm MinkoffJuly 21, 2016 – Movie Day: “My Fellow Americans” A comedy that convinces all, that comedy is king (and President). Starring Jack Lemmon, James Garner and Dan Aykroyd. Running Time is 1 hour, 41 minutes.July 26, 2016 – Bridge Bruce’s Way 10:30am-11:30amAfter Lunch: Senator Rob Teplitz will speak to the group about what his office can do for you and answer some of your questions.July 27, 2016 – Bus Trip to Hunterdon Hills Playhouse to see “Rock, Roll and Soul”July 29, 2016 – Bingo with prizes for everyone!

JCC Adult Programs


SilverSneakers® yoGa – SilverSneakers Yoga will move your whole body through a complete series of seated and standing yoga poses. Chair support is offered to safely perform a variety of seated and standing postures designed to increase flexibility, balance and range of movement. Restorative breathing exercises and final relaxation will promote stress reduction and mental clarity. Mondays and Wednesdays 11:45-12:30 p.m. Drop-in Fee $7 per class. Free to JCC members, SilverSneakers® and Silver and Fit participants.

Gentle yoga – Easy stretching Poses for those with intermittent back issues or those new to Yoga, restorative breathing exercises and stress relief are emphasized. One must be able to get down on to floor. For the summer Thursdays at 5:00-5:45 p.m. Drop-in Fee $7 per class. Free to JCC members, SilverSneakers® and Silver and Fit participants.

Zumba Gold – The class introduces easy-to-follow Zumba choreography that focuses on balance, range of motion and coordination. Perfect for beginners, or older adults. Thursdays at 11:00-11:45 a.m.

SilverSneakers® SPLaSH – Activate your urge for variety! Splash offers

fun, shallow water movement to improve agility and flexibility while addressing cardiovascular, strength and endurance conditioning. No swimming ability is required and a SilverSneakers® kickboard or other aquatic equipment is used to improve strength, balance and coordination. Mondays/Wednesday 9:30 -10:30 a.m. Drop-in Fee $7 per class. Free to JCC members, SilverSneakers® and Silver and Fit participants.

The Jewish Community Center is offering the following senior events:

Every Tuesday at 9:15 a.m.-10:15 a.m. SilverSneakers Classic10:30AM – Bridge, on the day we have our Business Meeting

(usually the 1st Tuesday of the month)10:30am Bridge the last Tuesday of the month

Every Thursday at 9:15 a.m.-10:15 a.m. – SilverSneakers Classic

Senior Lunch will be served Tuesdays and Thursdays at Noon. Reservations are preferred two days in advance if possible,

but no later than 4:00PM the day before. Call Cheryl 236-9555 EXT. 3115

After Lunch Programs are:June 28, 2016 - Bridge Bruce’s Way, 10:30am-11:30am.After Lunch: Barbara Tranin Blank will present a book review on her book, “Mary Sachs, Merchant Princess”.June 29, 2016 – Day Trip to the Fulton Theatre to see “Footloose”June 30, 2016 – Early 4th of July Party with Al Goodman, leading us in a Patriotic Sing-A-Long!July 5, 2016 –10:30am-11:30am- Bridge Bruce’s WayAfter lunch: “Senior Moments” a show presented by The Puppet and Story Works: Ventriloquism, puppetry, storytelling, song and laughter!July 7, 2016 – Puzzle Day: Let’s solve Crossword Puzzles as a group!July 12, 2016 – Business Meeting/Birthday PartyJuly 14, 2016 – Game Day: I have 5 card tables. Let’s play Bridge(bring your cards), Mah Jongg, Rummicube, or bring your favorite game to share or teach others.July 19, 2016 – Current Events with Herm MinkoffJuly 21, 2016 – Movie Day: “My Fellow Americans” A comedy that convinces all, that comedy is king (and President). Starring Jack Lemmon, James Garner and Dan Aykroyd. Running Time is 1 hour, 41 minutes.July 26, 2016 – Bridge Bruce’s Way 10:30am-11:30amAfter Lunch: Senator Rob Teplitz will speak to the group about what his office can do for you and answer some of your questions.July 27, 2016 – Bus Trip to Hunterdon Hills Playhouse to see “Rock, Roll and Soul”July 29, 2016 – Bingo with prizes for everyone!

JCC Adult ProgramsThe Harrisburg JCC was represented by twenty athletes at the Middle Atlantic

Jr. Maccabi Games held on Sunday, May 15th in Cherry Hill, NJ. The Olympic style event was open to Jewish children who were between 10-12 years old.

The day began with Opening Ceremonies when the Harrisburg delegation marched out to cheers by the large crowd in attendance. After the opening event the athletes were dismissed to their own sports. This year Harrisburg had athletes compete in swimming, gaga, tennis, and girls basketball.

Harrisburg’s swimmers had a stellar day in the pool thanks, in part, to the leadership of Coach Teri Berman. Brian Dym, Ben Teplitz, Sophia Rosenberg, Joshua Woren, Sarah Woren, Orit Leiferman, Emily Peisner, and Grace Rosenberg competed against swimmers from ten different JCCs. Every Harrisburg swimmer medaled, which included six gold, seven silver, and five bronze individual medals, together with a silver medal in the 200 yard freestyle relay and a bronze medal in the 200 yard medley relay. The gold medalists included Grace Rosenberg in the nine year old 50 yard breaststroke, Sarah Woren in the 10 year old 50 yard breaststroke, and Emily Peisner in the nine year old 100 yard breaststroke. Joshua Woren won three individual events for

10 year old boys in the 50 yard, 100 yard butterfly, and the 100 yard Individual Medley. In all three events, he set a new Mid- Atlantic JCC Jr. Maccabi record.

Tennis competition was fierce but that didn’t stop our Harrisburg athletes. Ross Kluger brought home a silver and Lauryn Chotiner came home with a Bronze medal. Similarly, in the sport of Gaga Danny Kass came home with a Bronze medal in the individual competition and Mikel Garner received a gold medal in the team competition.

The girls basketball team was composed of nine girls including Cara Morrison, Sarah Yoffe, Margot Kuller, Sydney Plesco, Ashley Kusic, Morgan Wiener, Emily Weinstock, and Lucy Berg, as well as Ella Damrauer who has been fighting an injury and unable to play. The girls played with heart and hustle in every game and made everybody proud.

“The girls played hard the entire day and no matter the situation they never quit and played to the final buzzer” stated Assistant Coach, Matt Plesco.

The Jr. Maccabi Games is an annual event held in May. For more information about Jr. Maccabi or the JCC Maccabi Games and JCC Maccabi ArtsFest please contact Terri at [email protected].

Harrisburg Athletes Participate inMiddle Atlantic Jr. Maccabi Games


Dear Harrisburg Jewish Community, Of all the articles I’ve had the opportunity to write for The Community Review as Kesher Israel Congregation’s

rabbi, this short note has proven to be the most difficult. Layala and I have a hard time believing that it has been nine years since the summer of 2007 – when we

relocated to Harrisburg. Serving KI as its rabbi – and being active members of this warm and welcoming community – has been extremely rewarding on so many levels.

At the beginning of July, we will be relocating to Memphis, TN – where I will serve another congregation – and where we will play an active role in another Jewish community. This was not an easy choice for us to make – considering the deep relationships we've developed here over these past nine years. So many of you have impacted our lives, and we hope that in some small way we have touched yours.

We will always be proud to have been part of Harrisburg’s Jewish community. We thank you so much for your friendship, support, and for the many ways in which you have helped us grow. May G-d bless the entire community with health, happiness, and continued success. Sincerely, Rabbi Akiva & Layala Males

P.S. Please stay in touch – our e-mail addresses will remain: [email protected] (me) and [email protected] (Layala)


synagogue lifeBETH El TEMPlE

232-0556 | www.betheltemplehbg.orgMinyan 7:00am daily and 5:30pm. Sunday morning at 9:00am. Friday night Kabbalat Shabbat

6:00pm. Shabbat morning service 9:15am. Saturday night mincha/maariv/havdalah at same time as Friday evening candle-lighting time.


CHiSuk EMuna ConGREGaTion 232-4851 | www.chisukemuna.org | [email protected]

Weekly: Torah Trope class with Gerry Gorelick, 9:00-10:00am. Explore the musical system of trope for reading Torah. Learners of all abilities welcome.


ConGREGaTion BETH iSRaEl Lebanon | 273-2669

All are welcome to our egalitarian services: Sundays at 9:00am and Thursdays at 7:30am.

Our Shabbat services, led by Rabbi Paula Reimers, are at 7:30pm on Friday evenings and on Shabbat morning at 9:30am followed by Kiddush.


ConGREGaTion BETH TikvaH Carlisle | 245-2811 | www.bethtikvah.org

Friday Night Shabbat Services 7:15pm.Location: Asbell Center, 262 West High Street, Carlisle

Summer Schedule: July 8, July 22, Aug 12, Aug 26 PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT

HiSToRiC B’nai JaCoB Middletown | 319-3014 | www.bnai-jacob.org

Historic B’nai Jacob Synagogue, Water and Nissley Street in Middletown, will conduct Shabbat Service and celebrate 112th Anniversary of our Shul on Friday, July 8th at 7:30pm. We are a Community Shul, all are welcome.

Visit website for more information.PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT

kESHER iSRaEl ConGREGaTion 238-0763 | www.kesherisrael.org

Participate in our daily Minyanim. Mornings: Sundays and Federal holidays at 8am, Monday-Friday at 6:45am. Rosh Chodesh and fast days at 6:30am. Evening services begin at 20 minutes before

sunset. Please join us for our 9:00am Shabbat morning services followed by Kiddush. Please contact our Office Manager, Cecelia Baker, at (717) 238-0763 for info. about our congregation.


TEMPlE BETH SHaloM 697-2662 | www.tbshalom.org

Temple Beth Shalom’s Friday evening Shabbat Services are at 7:15pm, followed by an oneg in the social hall. Services are led by Rabbi Daniel Grossman and Lay Leaders of Beth Shalom. Please

call the office or check the website calendar for details, as well as updates on when Saturday Shabbat services will be held.

Rabbi Daniel Grossman will lead Shabbat services on Friday, June 24 and July 8. Saturday morning Shabbat services, also led by Rabbi Grossman, will take place on June 25 and

July 9 at 9:00am. For details on upcoming services and events, check the website.


TEMPlE oHEv SHoloM 233-6459 | www.ohevsholom.org

Shabbat Service Friday, June 24, 2016, 7:30 PM, Sanctuary PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT

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Contact Christina Townleyat 717-233-0109 ext. 112

email: [email protected]

Announcement

The Pracht family sends grateful thanks to the Jewish

community for all their cards, donations, phone calls,

emails, and expressions of sympathy on the May passing

of my late husband, Fred Pracht.

Hope Hadassah Pracht


synagogue life

June 24 .........8:21pm

July 1 ............8:21pm

July 8 ............8:19pm

CandlEliGHTinG

By Alyssa GreenA few weeks ago, I heard someone ask the question “What was your defining moment during high school?”. I

began to think, realizing that nothing during my four years of classes, clubs, and sports really gave me an ah-ha moment where I felt like I had found my calling or had experienced a turning point in my life. Although high school and all that came with it were some of the most formative years of my life, my defining moment happened outside of the classroom.

Growing up, I always knew about the B’nai B’rith Youth Organization, otherwise known as BBYO. BBYO is a pluralistic Jewish youth movement for 8th to 12th graders and the largest Jewish teen led organization in the world. It separates into the B’nai B’rith Girls (BBG) and Aleph Zadik Aleph (AZA). To me though, it was always just another youth group which my parents wanted me to try after my bat mitzvah.

When I look back at my younger self even just two or three years ago, I would have never known that joining BBYO would be my defining moment during not just my 4 years in high school, but in the 18 years that I’ve been alive. Let me tell you why.

Before 11th grade, I was convinced to take up the position of the Harrisburg BBG’s president. The chapter had folded and I figured that it would look good on a college application. I had absolutely no idea what I was doing. In just one short year, everything changed. The chapter increased from zero active members to almost 30. At the end of the year, my chapter won the BBG Chapter of the Year award at the final regional convention. I was also elected to the Regional Board as the Vice President of Programming for Liberty Region, which is home to over 700 teens that belong to a BBYO chapter throughout parts of Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New York.

Throughout the past year, I have gotten the honor to watch both the Harrisburg BBG and Harrisburg AZA chapters thrive and grow with so much success. This year, Shula Bronner won the regional award, BBG of the year and Hallel Cheskis won Aleph of the year. Lincoln Weinstock was also elected to the upcoming Regional Board as the Vice President of Recruitment. These are just a few of the highlights of what has been such an impactful year full of fun programs, community service, and conventions for Harrisburg BBYO.

As my short time in BBYO comes to an end, I could not be more thankful for the lifelong leadership skills, Judaic enrichment, and amazing friends and mentors that this organization has given me. Now I know that BBYO is not just another youth group, but instead it is a sisterhood and fraternity and a place where everyone can truly belong. I have had the opportunity to make an impact in my community as well as meet many other Jewish teens at both regional conventions and even at an international level. I am so excited for the current and future members of Harrisburg BBYO to be able to do the same.

Joining BBYO was my defining moment and I would have never expected it. Even though this letter doesn’t even come close to explaining everything that this organization has done for me and so many others, I think you get the point. Whether your son or daughter is just graduating Hebrew School or getting ready to take their ACT’s, encourage them to get involved with BBYO. You never know, it could be their defining moment as well.

BBYO:My Defining Moment

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