Summer 2019 Issue

A Publication of the Squirrel Hill Urban Coalition

Squirrel Hill Magazine

Vol 17 | Issue 2

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Summer 2019

HEALTHY MIND, BODY, AND SOUL ISSUE VALUES THAT UNITE US: A CONVERSATION WITH FAITH LEADERS PART II SUMMER NIGHT MARKETS PREVIEW THE GREAT PARKS OF SQUIRREL HILL

PRIVATE RESIDENCE NO.25 POINT BREEZE

THE CENTURY INN

KINGFLY SPIRITS

SCENERY HILL, PA

STRIP DISTRICT

412 488 3809 | www.margittai.com

THE PITTSBURGH GOLF CLUB

MARKET STREET TOWNHOMES

SQUIRREL HILL

DOWNTOWN

DANCING GNOME BREWERY SHARPSBURG

BUDDY’S BREWS ON CARSON SOUTH SIDE

FUKU TEA OAKLAND

“Margittai Architects saw us through a seemingly impossible deadline. I honestly felt that the fate of our company would have had a very different outlook if Margittai hadn’t been involved with this project.”

PETER MARGITTAI

LORI FITZGERALD

PRINCIPAL

SHUC BOARD MEMBER AND RESIDENT

AIA

REGISTERED ARCHITECT

- Dan Rugh, Commonwealth Press

SUMMER 2019

facebook.com/ squirrelhillmagazine instagram.com/ squirrelhillurbancoalition

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twitter.com/ squirrelhillmag shuc.org/ the-burrow-blog/

in every issue PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

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SHUC SNAPSHOTS

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GUEST EDITORIAL Growing Chinese Vegetable at Chatham University’s Eden Hall Campus

by Christopher Murakami

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SQUIRREL HILL HISTORY Buildings that Fostered Healthy Minds, Bodies & Souls in Squirrel Hill

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by David Shifren

NEIGHBORHOOD NOTES

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EVENTS & HAPPENINGS

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30

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6

GET SUNWISE THIS SUMMER

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THE CICADAS ARE COMING!

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VALUES THAT UNITE US

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SILVER SNEAKERS

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THE GREAT PARKS OF SQUIRREL HILL

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SQUIRREL HILL REVIEW: LEVITY SPA

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SUMMER NIGHT MARKET PREVIEW

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THAI BOXING COMES TO SQUIRREL HILL

by Helen Wilson

ZONE 4 POLICE TIPS

features

by Alana Dickey

by Martha Isler

A CONVERSATION WITH 4 FAITH LEADERS - PART II

by Kimberely Saunders

by Eleanor Hershberg

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by Dalia Belinkoff

by Ian Rawson

by Natalie Kovacic

by Margaret 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. Volunteer-supported standing committees provide leadership to our community by studying, debating, and advocating positions on issues affecting our neighborhood’s vitality.

ON THE COVER:

Fresh flowers and produce are back with the Squirrel Hill Farmer’s Market. Over 20 stalls and vendors are found at the Public Parking lot at Beacon and Murray every Sunday until November.

FOR ADVERTISING INQUIRIES

Contact marketing@shuc.org.

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

For the past ten years, Squirrel Hill Magazine (SHM) has been the go-to resource for our residents to participate in the life of the community. This contributes to the physical and social well-being of us all. That is why we dedicate the Summer 2019 issue to the ways in which Squirrel Hill enriches the mind, body, and soul of our community.

But this could be our last issue.

Our advertisers have generously supported us for the last 10 years — but now we need your help. In addition to the costs of printing and delivering SHM to 16,000 households each quarter, we need qualified staff to bring you original, up to date content to help you stay engaged with our community. All this requires additional support.

Help us keep Squirrel Hill Magazine, a vital resource for our community, free for everyone. Visit shuc.org/onedollar and make a donation today.

With appreciation, Marian Lien Executive Director

Vol 17 | Issue 2

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Summer 2019

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), 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, Ian Rawson, Dalia Belinkoff, David Shifren, Alana Dickey, Kimberly Saunders, Margaret Whitmer, Helen Wilson, Jody Handley, Natalie Kovacic, and Lynn Kawaratani EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Marian Lien OFFICE INTERNS Alana Dickey and Ruby Chang Squirrel Hill Magazine, Vol. 17, Issue 2, is provided by the Squirrel Hill Urban Coalition as a free service to the residents and businesses in the 15217 zip code.

Subscriptions are available for $25/year. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without permission. Printed by Knepper Press.

4 | shuc.org

By Richard Feder, President of SHUC

able to rent in the building. It is an attractive building, one that fits in well with the nearby structures on Murray Avenue including the Morrowfield Apartments just up the street.

It is also nice to see that the project includes new parking for Squirrel Hill, as construction is underway on a 23-space, two-level parking facility across Murray Avenue from the Krause Commons building. This is the same location as the parking lot that used to be “across the street” from Poli’s.

It is expected that Krause Commons can be the spark for additional development to occur in the ForwardMurray area. Recently, there were two proposals for development projects in the vicinity, one a residential Need caption for the image when identified.

condominium project and the other a proposal for a mixed-use building. Neither project is proceeding.

However, there is a current proposal, by ACTION Housing in partnership with local developer John Katz of Brandywine Agency, for 43 additional affordable apartments along with more than 30,000 square feet of

CONSTRUCTION OF KRAUSE Commons, the new

commercial space, which would include significant office

building that was recently completed and open for

space and possible restaurant space.

business located near the corner of Forward and Murray, was initiated in summer/fall of 2017. The building is a

While the private market for future developments is still

joint project between the Jewish Residential Services

being sorted out, SHUC is working with elected officials,

(JRS) and ACTION Housing, Inc. with SHUC as a proud

the City, and the private sector to advance SHUC’s

community partner.

Gateway Plan, which is a robust program of public amenities for the Forward-Murray gateway into Squirrel

Krause Commons, at the site of the former Poli’s

Hill. Projects that have been completed in the past few

Restaurant, is six stories and houses the JRS offices,

years have included the Welcome to Squirrel Hill sign,

the Howard Levin Clubhouse, and 33 units of affordable

the “Remembered” garden at the I-376 westbound on-

housing. At the time of its construction, Krause Commons

ramp, murals, bike racks, pedestrian-scale street lights,

was touted as creating supportive and affordable

the Post-Office parklet, and the “chess-set” parklet at

housing, bringing income diversity to Squirrel Hill, and

Beacon and Murray.

creating thoughtful development at a prominent gateway location in the neighborhood. In the Krause Commons

Three other Gateway Plan projects are currently in the

development, these benefits are being realized.

works. Construction is expected to start this year on O’Connor’s Corner, which is a parklet that will be built on

That the affordable housing component is helping to

the wide sidewalk area on Murray at Phillips (in front of

address a neighborhood need is evidenced by the long list

Jerry’s Records, the New Dumpling House, and the guitar

of persons who have signed up for the opportunity to be

store). O’Connor’s Corner will feature trees, landscaping, CONTINUED on page 7

Summer 2019 | 5

SHUC PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Development Projects around Squirrel Hill

GET SUNWISE THIS SUMMER

by Alana Dickey

AS SUMMER HEATS up, many of us

meat, seafood, and eggs separate from

spend more time outside. Hotter weather presents

other foods; and wash fruits and vegetables before

some unique risks, however, and its important to be

serving. Make sure your refrigerator is below 40°F and

aware and stay safe.

that meat is cooked to an appropriate temperature.

Leftovers should be cooled within two hours of cooking,

Sunburn is caused by prolonged exposure to the sun and

or one hour if it is over 90°F outside. To be safe, pay

can be very painful and cause lasting damage to the skin,

attention to ‘use by’ dates on food.

including skin cancer. Too much exposure can also cause eye damage and premature wrinkles. To avoid getting

The average person needs to drink around three quarts

burnt, seek shade, especially between the hours of 10

of water per day, but that amount increases when you

a.m. and 2 p.m., when the UVA rays are at their most

are active outside or it is hot. Some signs of dehydration

intense. Wearing protective clothing, such as a wide-

include increased thirst, lightheadedness, headache, dry

brimmed hat, sunglasses, long pants, and long-sleeved

mouth and tongue, feeling tired or lethargic, muscle

shirts can also help protect you from the sun. Apply

cramps, confusion, and dark-colored urine. While thirst

sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to exposed skin and

is a sign of dehydration, your body often needs water

reapply around every two hours or after getting wet.

before you feel thirsty, so it is important to drink water regularly even if you aren’t thirsty. Alcoholic and

Insect stings generally only cause discomfort but can

caffeinated beverages tend to dehydrate rather than

be more serious in people with allergies. To prevent

hydrate.

stings, don’t startle bees or wasps. Avoid going barefoot in areas with flowering plants, and do not use heavily

The good news is that the sun doesn’t have to be your

scented products. Properly dispose of used food

enemy if you wear your sunscreen, drink your water, and

containers and leftover foods, and check beverages

take breaks when you start to feel too hot. And don’t

before drinking them. If a stinging insect enters your

forget your sunglasses. Not only do they protect your

car, stop and roll down the windows.

eyes from the sun, they make you look so cool!

To prevent food poisoning, make sure to wash your hands and food preparation surfaces regularly. Keep raw

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CONTINUED from page 5 seating, and an improved bus stop. An additional opportunity for a small open space presents itself right next to the parking deck on Murray Avenue that is being built by Action Housing. Construction of that parking facility is leaving a small corner property available for use by the public, and plans are being generated to develop green space there that hopefully will include stormwater

OCTOBER 5

mitigation.

SHUC’s Gateway Committee met with Duquesne Light to discuss plans to screen the unattractive substation located along lower Forward Avenue between the corner medical office building and Lifetime Automotive. We hope to see a visually attractive element at this location in the future.

Finally, SHUC continues to work hard to formulate plans

October 5, 2019

for pedestrian and bicycle routes and trails. Persons riding or walking by Solevo Wellness might have noticed that a right-of-way has been reserved along Solevo’s parking lot for a sidewalk/trail that will eventually connect with Monitor Street. We are also promoting the idea of a new trail that would traverse down to Saline Street in The Run section of Greenfield, which if built would eventually comprise an eastern extension of the Eliza Furnace trail to Squirrel Hill.

SHUC hosts its monthly board meeting on the third Tuesday of each month, starting at 6:00 pm. The meetings are typical held in The Children’s Institute building on Shady Avenue, and are open to the public.

The September 2019 board meeting, on the 17th of the month, is our “annual meeting” in which we will have a guest speaker, presentations by board members, and comments from the audience. Visit www.shuc.org for more information as the meeting date nears.

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.

Summer 2019 | 7

SHUC SNAPSHOTS

shuc snapshots NOTES FROM YOUR SQUIRREL HILL URBAN COALITION COMMITTEES

Litter Patrol Committee

THE LITTER PATROL spent the last few months

preparing for and holding our annual Community Clean Up on Sunday, April 14, 2019, the first of our four Beautify Our ‘Burgh events. The predicted bad weather (i.e., cold, thunderstorms, rain) resulted in a reduction of volunteers. Despite the lower than expected turnout due to rain, we had many positives occur: 1. 63 volunteers picked up litter (35 residents, 18 Community Day School students & parents, 10 young ladies from CMU’s Kappa Phi Lambda) 2. About 63 grocery size bags of trash and 15 blue bags of recyclables were collected 3. Mr. Murray the Squirrel (Johnny Petrus) and Officer McGruff, the Crime Dog, provided lots of photo opportunities for residents who volunteered, neighbors who were just walking by, and our working staff

Litter Patrol (LP) Committee Chair and SHUC board member Barb Grover with LP committee members Cassie Shayne and Bob Danenberg getting ready for the 2019 Squirrel HIll Clean Up (from right to left).

4. Four new people signed up for Adopt-A-Block

Our Good Neighbor Campaign is well underway.

5. XOXO – An exhibit about love & forgiveness from

Merchants in our business district are being asked to

The Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh joined us

commit to 1) keeping their sidewalks free of litter, 2)

for the first time. This mobile museum exhibit is

keeping their sidewalks free of ice/snow in the winter,

designed for visitors to ask questions, listen, and

and 3) keeping their sidewalks in good repair. Martha

learn about themselves and the people around

Raak, Barbara Jones, and Vicky Fuller are personally

them.

contacting the merchants in our business district, explaining the Good Neighbor Campaign. Special decals

We greatly appreciate the generous support from our

are provided to those who sign up. Any business who

sponsors: Allegheny Cleanways, Classic Line Books,

wishes to participate should send an email to info@shuc.

Costco at Homestead, Giant Eagle in Squirrel Hill, the

org and someone will contact them with details.

Manor Theater, Squirrel Hill Wine & Spirits, Starbucks, and S W Randall Toyes & Giftes. We also thank Lin St.

Our next set of Beautify Our ‘Burgh activities will be

Clair, former teacher at Community Day School (CDS),

our three Night Markets, June 22, August 24, and

for rejoining our effort and recruiting students, Heather

September 28. We are looking for volunteers to help

Graham for providing delicious pizza from Pizza Bellino

clean the streets prior to the event(4-6pm) , deal with

on Forbes Avenue, Officer Cochrane and Officer Butch

trash and recycle bins during the event (6-10pm) and

from Zone 4 for coordinating with us, and Pittsburgh

clean up after the event (10-11pm). If you wish to help,

City Public Works (Jeff Koch & Mike Kovacic) for

please contact committee chair Barb Grover at info@

providing tables & chairs and picking up our trash.

shuc.org

8 | shuc.org

SHUC SNAPSHOTS

Ped-Bike Committee

THE NEWEST INITIATIVE of the Squirrel Hill Urban

We are in touch, and look forward to collaborating,

Coalition Ped-Bike Committee is to develop a “Walking

with Squirrel Hill Historical Society in this initiative.

Map” of Squirrel Hill. Tentatively dubbed Footloose in

The Society has rich information on the history of

Squirrel Hill, a draft has been created showing a loop

neighborhood places and has experience in organizing

of approximately 3-miles, beginning/ending at the Frick

walking and driving tours of the area.

Environmental Center.

We continue working on developing the itinerary’s Goals of the map are to enhance engagement with the

highlights and safety tips and getting information from

neighborhood, and each other, on part of residents,

other neighborhood organizations on their tour ideas and

visitors, business users, and newcomers. This

on designs of paper and digital map formats.

engagement should provide considerable health and recreational benefits, economic activity, and appreciation

The first draft of the map will be placed on the SHUC

and utilization of Squirrel Hill’s amenities, institutions,

web page https://shuc.org/pedestrian-bike-committee

and businesses.

and comments will be welcome by email to committee chair Marshall Hershberg, at info@shuc.org. We will report on further developments as they occur.

Summer 2019 | 9

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LET ME HELP YOU MAKE YOUR NEXT MOVE

Coordinated Care Helping Seniors Stay Healthy at Home

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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 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 • 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.

The CICADAS

ARE COMING

By Martha Isler

A SWARM OF MILLIONS of cicadas that is concentrated

What benefits do cicadas provide?

in southwestern Pennsylvania is set to emerge from the

Every 17 years our forests are treated to a great

ground this month after 17 years. We’re told they’ll only

amount of nutrients in the form of dead cicada bodies.

last a few weeks, but you can’t miss them — and they

Thousands of animals feast upon the insects as well;

are loud! Our friends at Tree Pittsburgh (treepittsbugh.

something they will never again see in their lifetime

org) provided us with answers to the most frequently

(these 17 year insects will outlive our common wildlife).

asked questions about these harmless insects and what

residents can expect from our temporary June neighbors.

Will they harm me or my children?

No. Adult cicadas do not have a mouth or stinger and

Will the cicadas hurt my trees?

therefore will not cause any harm to people. While they

Cicadas will not cause a mature tree long term damage.

may look intimidating and sound scary they can be picked

Younger trees will become targets for egg laying and

up without worry. Remember, you will not see these

may suffer damage but they should recover quickly in

insects for 17 more years — encourage your children to

the next few years if healthy. Covering young trees with

explore them!

netting is often recommended, but this can cause more harm than good. Removing the netting will often break

Are they poisonous to humans? Dogs?

off more new growth than the cicada damage. Birds may

They are gluten-free, high in protein, low in fat, and

become entangled in the netting as well as other tree

low in carbohydrates. Every 17 years the wildlife of our

dwelling animals.

area such as turtles, squirrels, mice, possums, foxes, raccoons, chipmunks and birds receive a feast they cannot

The female cicadas have a saw-like structure on their

comprehend. In most cases your pets will be fine if they

ovipositor (egg-laying body part) that will cut a groove

eat a few cicadas, however, you still need to be cautious.

in a tree limb. The groove provides shelter and exposes

Watch them for odd behavior. Pets can choke on the

the tree fluids, which the young cicadas feed on. These

rigid wings and other hard body parts of the cicadas and

grooves can kill small branches. When the branches die

possibly become ill and vomit.

and leaves turn brown, it is called flagging. A few weeks later the young cicada will drop to the ground where they

To find more interesting information about the southwestern

burrow down to feed on the roots for 17 more years.

Pennsylvania cicadas, visit www.cicadamania.com.

Summer 2019 | 11

The Story Behind

TEN THOUSAND VILLAGES is

Alternative Reform

the oldest and largest fair

Action) Projects in

trade retailer in the U.S.,

North India. One artist,

started in 1946 out of the trunk

Asha, described fair trade’s

of Edna Ruth Byler’s car. Byler

impact, “I am happy to be a

said, “I’m just a woman trying to help other women.” And she has! What started as a simple desire to pay a fair price

part of fair trade. It givesme more awareness about gender equality, respect for women and better wages

for quality needlework has become a network of

on time.” With fair trade, TARA can provide education

nonprofits across the US that supports 20,000 makers

to women and children while preventing poverty and

in 30 countries.

illiteracy. The latest jewelry pieces from TARA feature

I’m just a woman trying to help other women.

— E DN A RU T H BY L E R

beautiful semi-precious stones – perfect for summer!

Fair trade is also a means to celebrate arts and culture.

Through Craft Link, Ten Thousand Villages partners with traditional Vietnamese handicraft villages and family workshops across Northern Vietnam. Artisans make ceramics from methods that have been handed down for

The fair trade movement provides laborers around the

generations, and decorations are all hand-painted. Check

world with fair wages, ethical work environments and an

out the cat print mugs and stackable giraffe cups, which

overall better quality of life – things that non-fair trade

put a modern spin on the age-old crafting method.

organizations often overlook. Backed by long-term relationships, these principles are able to break the cycle

Visit Ten Thousand Villages at 5820 Forbes Avenue,

of poverty.

Squirrel Hill to discover more makers, or visit www. tenthousandvillages.com for info.

Since 1986, Ten Thousand Villages has partnered with the hundreds of women who make up TARA (Trade

12 | shuc.org

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

With Gratitude to our most recent donors and members $2000

$100-$199 [Continued]

$50-$99

Solevo Wellness

Susan Saul Fineman

Marvin & Arleen Adelson

University of Pittsburgh Asian Studies Center

Jay & Ilene Fingeret

Barbara Anderson

Wayne Gerhold

Jill Balmuth & Janice Lott

$1000

Van & Paula Hall

Phyllis Baskin

Lori Fitzgerald

David & Linda Harinstein

Bernard & Joan Bloch

Summerset Land Development Assoicates

Michael Henderson

David & Nancy Brent

Highmark Health

Genevieve Cook *

$500-$999

Micahel & Leah Jacobs

Digby Books Ltd

Richard & Helen Feder

Foster & Barbara Jones

Andrew Eller

Gary Frink

Lynn Kawaratani

Marcia Frumerman

Bill Slivka & Lisa Citron

Theodore Knowlton

Jeffrey Garrett

Uncover Squirrel Hill

Louis Kushner Family

Yukiko Giho

Alan & Vivian Lawsky

Beth Grill

$200-$499

Rosanne & Clifford Levine

Ignacio & Blanca Grossmann

Barbara Burstin

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Andrew Ferraro & Francine Abraham

Cherie Maharam

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Jewish Family and Community Services

Nancy Merenstein

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Marian Lien

Robert Kraut & Aya Betensky

Grant Oliphant

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Michael & Andrea Lowenstein

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Susan & Bert Rockman

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Asatoshi Maeshiro

Eugene & Saundra O’Sullivan

David Sanders & Eleanor Feingold

Carole Neiberg

Bruce Rabin & Estelle Comay

Barton Schachter

Angela & Michael Reilly

Julie Ratner

Rosalyn Sherman

Ann Rose

Frank & Jean Robinson

Lee Silverman

Ervin & Johanna Roszner

Justin Sigal

Saundra Synder

Lori Sobol *

JLH Simonds

Marcio & Melvin Solomon

Cecilia Sommers

Lisa & Stephen Steindel

Yvonne Stein

Rosanne & Daniel Stead

Liora & Lee Weinberg

Charles & Frances Stewart

David & Carol Steinbach

Marcia Stewart

Emily & Oscar Swan

$100-$199

Carol Tabas

Stephen & Shirley Tannenbaum

Michael Berger

Joel Tarr

Albert & Rosalyn Treger

Ira Bergman & Dalia Belinkoff

Ten Thousand Villages

Ben & Susan Wechsler

Jane Bress

Patricia Weiss

Gregory & Laurie Weingart

Rosalind Chow

Wayne Zukin

Arthur & Barbara Westerberg

Alan & Lynne Colker

Froimlee Wirtzman

Vivian & Rocco Didomenico Peter Ennis & Laura Ellman

14 | shuc.org

* Thank you sustaining members!

Dear Neighbor: Up to $49 Peter Baum Carol Berger Jean Binstock Peter & Stephanie Brown Joseph Desimone & Cheryl Teplitz

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 community 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!

Ivan Lee Engel Ed Fine & Rachel Krasnow Michael Foley * Gregory & Jennifer Ganger Ann Giorgi Heather Graham

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 16,000 homes and businesses receiving this free community magazine have made a membership contribution in the last 2 years. Please help us change that.

Karen & James Greb David & Bonita Greenberg Jacob & Alexandra Greenberg Nancy Hetzel Karen Kaighin

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. Let’s show them we love Squirrel Hill!

Carl & Elaine Krasik Emanuel & Dora Krifcher

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

Ka Sing Lau & Eveline Young Racille Lazar

Name:

PAYMENT METHODS Check: Please make payable to

Ben Lecrone * Kenneth Levin

Email:

Squirrel Hill Urban Coalition 5604 Solway Street

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Address:

Pittsburgh, PA 15217

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or go to our secure website:

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$20 or other $ Summer 2019 | 15

VALUES THAT

By Kimberly Saunders

UNITE US

In the Spring issue of Squirrel Hill Magazine, we asked four prominent community leaders to share how faith can inform and influence one’s perspectives. In this issue, the conversation continues as these leaders discuss the values that unite diverse faith traditions.

A CONVERSATION WITH 4 FAITH LEADERS Rabbi Symons explains foundational Jewish values that amplify the Golden Rule and strengthen the fabric of community. “Jewish wisdom teaches that we all belong to each other, that community is strengthened through intentional actions by neighbors, and that we step in to help those in need. It also demands that we see the

“IGNORANCE IS OUR ENEMY, leading to bigotry and

human reflection of the Divine in every single person

hatred,” says Wasi Mohamed. “Treating others as we

and act accordingly,” he says.

want to be treated and loving for our brothers what we love for ourselves are universal principles that can help

Reflecting God’s being and nature is a core belief of

lead us out of these dark times.”

Christians as well who are “made in the image and likeness of God.” (Gen. 1:26) “Christians believe in the

What Mohamed describes is commonly known as the

particular importance of caring for “the least of these”

“Golden Rule,” a moral precept with deep historical

— people who are poor, oppressed, and suffering. We

roots shared by many people who practice different

are also called to practice hospitality, believing, as the

faiths—or no faith at all. This principle remains relevant

author of the letter to the Hebrews suggested, that by

today as we continue to witness discrimination and

doing so ‘some have entertained angels unaware,“ adds

hatred of those who think, act, or believe differently

Rev. Barlow.

than we do. Examining the common values of different faith traditions as well as their unique tenets is a way

A Hindu sees manifestation of Divinity all around,

to banish misconceptions and increase understanding

explains sOm Sharma, regardless of race, color or

of “the others” who are part of the vibrant Squirrel Hill

language. “The Hindu greeting, Namaste, means ‘I bow

community.

to the Divinity in you’ and Hinduism teaches Atithi devo

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.

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.

16 | shuc.org

Photo by Jennifer McKinney

CONTINUED on page 17

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.

WASI MOHAMED

former Executive Director, Islamic Center of Pittsburgh.

Wasi has been named a Forward Cities Iclusive Innovation Fellow, working on economic development in the city of Pittsburgh and continues to advise the ICP board.

CONTINUED from page 16

bhava - an unannounced guest is a divine being, not a

in the person of Jesus of Nazareth, who died and rose

stranger.”

from the dead. “We believe that Jesus really died. But we also believe that death is not the end of the story.

A desire to live in community with others, rather than

We believe that even in the most hopeless, tragic, and

in isolation, is another value shared by many faiths and

terrible times, God can bring new life out of death,” says

cultures. “A core teaching of Hinduism is ‘Vasudhaiva

Barlow.

kutumbakam’, meaning we are all one big family, having the same needs and aspirations and seeking the same

Sharma explains that in Hinduism, there is no dogma or

goals of love and happiness,” continued Sharma.

commandments to follow. The ultimate responsibility for one’s happiness and peace of mind is placed on the

DIVERSITY IS A BEAUTIFUL THING

individual, rather than on any miracle, or blessings of a

Celebrating with people of assorted backgrounds is an

master or messiah, or God in the heavens. The religion

invitation into community, claims Symons. “Over the past

suggests four distinct paths to Enlightenment one might

two years, the JCC’s Center for Loving Kindness and Civic

follow that suits his or her personality and inclinations:

Engagement has been in relationship with close to 500

Jnana (intellectual, contemplative, knowledge seeking);

religious leaders and thousands of people from varied

Bhakti (devotion and surrender); Karma (acts of humble

backgrounds.”

service); and Raja Yoga (Meditation).

One of those leaders is Rev. Barlow, who provides details of this partnership. “Christian Associates and the Center for Loving Kindness and Civic Engagement offer a series of community conversations, the Hopeful Responses series, on important community issues such as gun violence, addiction, and immigration. Since the Tree of Life shooting, we’ve also redoubled our effort to bring together interfaith clergy. Our fall gathering drew 150 religious leaders, representing six world religions and

...[C]ommunity is strengthened through intentional actions by neighbors, and that we step in to help those in need.

— RABBI SYMONS

nearly two dozen Christian denominations.”

While respect for others, a desire for peace and justice,

“Predominance of one such inclination usually determines

and a commitment to the common good are commonly-

a path an individual is likely to choose, although the rest

share values, different faiths and cultures also have

are not entirely absent. Many choose a combination, and

unique beliefs and practices that distinguish them from

use it effectively. There’s no ‘one size fits all’ formula,” he

others.

adds.

“Diversity is a beautiful thing, and in the Prophet’s last

Helping people understand the differences, as well as

sermon he told us that God ‘made us of many languages

the shared values of different faiths and cultures is an

and tribes so that we might get to know one another,’

important mission. The Islamic Center of Pittsburgh has

meaning that forcing uniformity is not at all the path

partnered with schools, synagogues, churches, libraries

towards enlightenment and understanding,” explains

and nonprofits in Squirrel Hill to help build awareness

Mohamed.

and understanding of Islam since the 1980’s. During his tenure as executive director, Mohamed established new

Muslims, Jews and Christians all recognize Jesus as a

programs, gave presentations on Islamic traditions and

prophet, however, Christians believe God become man

doctrines, and organized interfaith discussion groups CONTINUED on page 19

Summer 2019 | 17

GUEST EDITORIAL

Growing Chinese Vegetables at Chatham University’s Eden Hall Campus

By Christopher D. Murakami, Ph.D. Assistant Professor at Chatham University Chris’s research, teaching, and outreach focus on learning through experiences with food and nature.

EACH SEMESTER, graduate students in my Agroecology

After selecting seeds, students worked in the

course learn about the basics of seed starting–selecting

greenhouse and gardens at Chatham University’s Eden

specific vegetable seeds, identifying when and how they

Hall Campus to prepare to grow small plots of these

should be planted, and preparing soil for a successful

crops. Chatham’s Food Studies program emphasizes a

harvest. This semester, we focused more specifically

holistic approach to food systems, from agriculture and

on growing a handful of vegetables that are in constant

food production to cuisines and consumption, providing

demand in a number of the region-specific Chinese

students with practical experience from field to table.

restaurants in Squirrel Hill.

Naturally, I found myself on a self-serving “research” We decided to experiment with growing and learning

mission at Squirrel Hill’s Chengdu Gourmet to taste

about daikon radish, luffa gourd, and pea shoots. We

stir-fry pea shoots and get a sense of what we should

selected several heirloom varieties of daikon and luffa

be aiming for as an end product for the shoots we were

from Kitazawa Seed Company, a Japanese American-

growing. Though we made some mistakes in our first

owned seed company founded in 1917. The company

attempt at growing the shoots, we’ve learned much

preserves genetic diversity of East and South-East Asian

from speaking with local Chinese chefs, and can put that

vegetables and is a great resource for gardeners.

CONTINUED on page 19

18 | shuc.org

Chatham’s Eden Hall Campus is a 388-acre plot of land located in Gibsonia, and will be home to Chatham’s Falk School of Sustainability and function as a living and learning laborartory.

CONTINUED from page 18

CONTINUED on page 17

knowledge to use for how we can enhance our local food

throughout the city to help strengthen relationships

sustainability.

between Muslims and people of other faiths.

Our experiment has led to additional questions, too, such

Sharma also participates in several interfaith gatherings

as: what is the demand for locally produced Chinese or

and discussion groups to educate others about Hinduism

other Asian vegetables? What strategies are farmers

as well as visits other houses of worship and attend

and home gardeners using to grow Chinese vegetables

religious services. He organizes an annual Mahatma

in the region? What relationships in the food system can

Gandhi day, inviting college students to learn more about

be enhanced to increase access to high-quality, culturally

how they can contribute to Gandhi’s legacy of creating

relevant foods for other immigrant populations?

and nurturing a culture of peace.

While digging into these questions with my colleagues

Learning about other faith traditions and cultures can be

and students is exciting, I’m perhaps most eager to share

eye-opening. The community faith leaders all agree that

the bounty of our summer garden with the Squirrel Hill

despite distinctions, the shared human values show how

community. If all goes well, we’ll have some luffa and

we are more alike than different.

daikon radish to share in late July!

Embracing these similarities and celebrating our diversity For more information on Chatham’s Eden Hall Campus

are what make Squirrel Hill special.

and Food Studies Programs, visit www.edenhall. chatham.edu.

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Summer 2019 | 19

HOW WE DISCOVER Our sixth graders excavate artifacts from on-campus archaeology pits and learn how to analyze, classify and contextualize their findings.

Our hands-on approach to education sparks students’ curiosity and inspires the next generation of critical thinkers.

How will you discover the perfect balance of rigor and joy for your child?

BECAUSE “HOW” MATTERS PK-12 • Four Campuses

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6/5/19 2:59 PM

“79,000 STORIES" The Homewood Cemetery

7th Annual Founders’ Day Celebration Saturday, August 17th. 12 P.M. to 4 P.M. Free and Family Friendly!

Join us for a fun filled afternoon including music, food trucks, vintage cars, model trains, puppets, tours and stories!

Follow The Homewood Cemetery Historical Fund’s Facebook Page for updates on performers and programs.

412-421-1822

1599 S. Dallas Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15217

SHUC is EXPANDING and RECRUITING NEW BOARD MEMBERS

Are you ‘nuts’ about Squirrel HIll? Would you like to give back to the community we all love? Are you interested in participating in making change? Then this is for you!

SHUC is looking to bring on a few more board members and would love to meet you!

We meet monthly and host a few events throughout the year. For more: www.shuc. org/board-information.

Breathing easier

Silver Sneakers Program Available for Older Adults

Kathleen Short

By Eleanor Hershberg SEVENTY-FIVE PERCENT OF AMERICANS do not get the recommended amount of physical exercise to promote weight control, lower their risk of heart disease and diabetes, or help control blood pressure. Thirty minutes of exercise, 5 to 7 days a week, is recommended, and we know it can improve muscle strength, joint flexibility, and endurance.

Fortunately, there is an exercise program to help promote more exercise for men and women age 65 and older. Silver Sneakers is a free fitness program offered by health centers, churches, and local senior centers, and covered by dozens of insurance plans.

In fact, 1 in 5 people age 65 and older is eligible through those plans, including enrollees in Medicare supplements and Medicare Advantage plans.

Programs can include cardio exercise, yoga, shallow water exercises, tai chi, balance and strength exercises, as well as the use of pools, gyms, and general locker rooms. Instructors are generally required to complete 2 to 4 year degrees in health, exercise science, recreation, or a physical activity-related field and be CPR certified.

There are 16,000 gyms and fitness centers participating nationwide, and members can use as many as they wish. Participating centers near Squirrel Hill include the Jewish Community Center of Greater Pittsburgh, XShadyside, 24 Hour Health and Fitness, Waverly Presbyterian Church, L.A. Fitness, Crunch Fitness, Club One Fitness, and Kingsley Community Center.

When Kathleen needs skilled Home Health Services, JAA is a heartbeat away with the highest quality care.

That’s Aging. Independently.

Silver Sneakers is fun, healthy, promotes social connections, and encourages older adults to participate in physical activity. Eligibility and additional locations can be found online at www.silversneakers.com.

412-586-3249 | jaapgh.org/healthcare-at-home Summer 2019 | 23 JAA_SqHill_Kathleen-FINAL.indd 1

6/5/19 2:58 PM

THE GREAT PARKS OF SQUIRREL HILL

By Dalia Belinkoff

“Wonderful family neighborhood! Good schools! Vibrant business community! Diverse population!”

WE ALL KNOW and love these attributes of Squirrel Hill. They contribute to our sense of community and well-being in both Squirrel Hill and Pittsburgh.

But the public parks in and around Squirrel Hill are also an integral part of our neighborhood. They can be used year-round, from sunrise to dusk. They enhance our community and offer beautiful environments that are good for our bodies, minds and hearts. Jane Jacobs, author of

The Death and Life of Great American Cities, and an important influence on city planning, noted: “The more successfully a city mingles everyday diversity of uses and users in its everyday streets, the more successfully and casually its people thereby enliven and support welllocated parks and can thus give back grace and delight to their neighborhoods instead of vacuity.”

Perhaps she had visited Squirrel Hill.

SCHENLEY PARK Schenley Park has 456 acres of trails, woods and other attractions.

Marked and signposted trails wind throughout the park, showing the way for walkers, runners, and cyclists. Why not take a short stroll from the Bartlett Street Playground down to the lake under the Westinghouse Bridge? Or try a longer hike around the swimming pool, over to the Westinghouse Memorial and up to the sportsplex.

That sportsplex contains an oval for running, tennis courts and an ice skating rink. On the way to the swimming pool, you’ll find playgrounds and pavilions.

BOB O’CONNOR GOLF COURSE If walking or running through the Park isn’t your thing, you could try a round of golf at the Bob O’Connor Golf Course (familiarly known as “The Bob”), just off Forbes Avenue at Schenley Drive. In 2012, the golf course Photographs was certified by by the Audubon International as an Audubon Cooperative Katie Sanctuary, Funaki and meaning Scott Schubert it meets certain sustainable nature CONTINUED on page 25

24 | shuc.org

CONTINUED from page 24 resources management policies. The course is also home to The First Tee of Pittsburgh, a national organization dedicated to introducing children to the game of golf.

The original golf course clubhouse will soon be replaced by a new facility designed to have more parking and be accessible to all. The Squirrel Hill Urban Coalition hosted numerous planning meetings and was instrumental in ensuring good design for the new building. environmentally-friendly workshops, adult beverages,

BLUE SLIDE PARK

food trucks and more. Registration is $25 per person per

Blue Slide Park — made famous by Mac Miller’s song

event, and can be found at pittsburghparks.org.

of the same name — is a small but beloved portion of Frick Park on the east side of Squirrel Hill. Known as

MELLON PARK

Pittsburgh’s woodland park, it is laced with an extensive

What could be more relaxing than to be at Mellon Park?

trail system through steep valleys and woods. On those

Located off Fifth Avenue by the Center for the Arts,

trails you’ll see walkers, runners, and cross-country

Mellon Park was part of the original estate of Richard

skiers in winter. You’ll also find a large dog-friendly area,

Beatty Mellon. When he lived there, he particularly

and multiple streams coursing through the terrain. The

lavished attention on his Walled Garden. Today, the

streams enhance the bucolic atmosphere; while the

walled garden is a part of the Phipps Garden Center.

soccer and softball fields, clay tennis courts and the only

Master gardeners and garden club volunteers maintain

bocce ball green in Pennsylvania provide opportunities

the garden, and the small building behind the garden is

for any aerobic activity you’d like to participate in.

the site of numerous classes for gardeners of all colors of thumbs. You can find a list of classes on the Phipps

FRICK ENVIRONMENTAL CENTER

Conservatory website at phipps.conservatory.org.

The Frick Environmental Center, a state-of-the-art,

Make room in your summer schedule for Bach,

green-certified building on the Beechwood Boulevard

Beethoven and Brunch—a lovely way to listen to music

side of Frick Park, is a hub for numerous programs

out of doors—on Sunday mornings from 10:30 a.m.

about ecology and environmental subjects important to

to noon. The first program this year is June 16, 2019,

our parks. The Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy’s STEM

featuring the Edgewood Symphony. Mellon Park also

(Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) education

hosts the annual A Fair in the Park, in early September

programs use Pittsburgh’s thousands of acres of parkland

each year. The Fair features artisans of all types of art

as outdoor classrooms.

and crafts, live music, and multiple food trucks and vendors.

Children as young as age 3 can participate in ageappropriate outdoor learning about our environment, and

WHO KNEW?

how organisms live in various habitats. Older students

These emerald gems are within a short distance of every

can participate in programs that evaluate the health of

part of Squirrel Hill. They are sources of energy, activity,

plant and stream ecosystems and learn about ecological

or relaxation, and they make Squirrel Hill a better

restoration projects. Adult programs include moonlight

neighborhood.

walks and other ecologically-themed activities.

You can learn something new every day at the park!

For adults, the Frick Environmental Center hosts events

Check out the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy website

for those 21+ every second Friday of the month from

for schedules and times of classes and activities at

May through October. These events include live music,

pittsburghparks.org.

Summer 2019 | 25

A REVIEW OF

LEVITY SPA

by Ian Rawson

Levity Spa, a float studio located on Murray Avenue, allows patrons to experience the healing power of floating on Epsom salts that sustain participants on the surface.

W HILE RECOVERING FROM hip surgery this winter, I

She led me down a corridor to show me my float room,

pursued a series of therapies to regain my mobility and

and pointed out a large white pod, reminiscent of the

endurance. Massage and physical therapy each offered

escape pods that astronauts used to reenter space.

benefits but I didn’t feel that I was making progress. A

Emily lifted the pod’s cover and instructed me that, after

fellow gym goer at the JCC asked if I had tried Floating,

I showered, I should step into the one-foot deep pool,

saying that it he had found it to be an effective way

close the door behind me and lay down, allowing the

to relax and recover from stresses and strains. He

salted water to sustain me.

suggested Levity in Squirrel Hill, and I explored their attractive and user-friendly website.

“You might feel a bit disoriented at first,” Emily explained, “but soon you feel secure and calm. After you

I scheduled a session online, and when I arrived I was

take your shower you will hear some quiet music. Then

greeted by Emily, a young, energetic Chatham graduate.

you can enter the pool and close the door behind you.

The room exuded a sense of calm and peace, with stone

After sixty minutes, you will hear the music again, and

walls and wooden trim. Emily led me to comfortable

you can shower and dress and I’ll see you in the studio.”

leather couches as she explained the Float process.

Unlike acupuncture, massage, aromatherapy or other

I hung my clothes on wooden pegs and stepped under

popular healing processes, it is a solo journey on a bed

the shower, pouring on me like a gentle tropical rain. I

of water, enriched with Epsom salts that sustains the

raised the portal as I heard the gentle notes that invited

participant on the surface. When I asked her who usually

me into the pool.

comes to Levity, she told me people of all ages enjoy the spa, both men and women. Many of them are athletes.

26 | shuc.org

CONTINUED on page 27

CONTINUED from page 26 I stepped into the dark pool, closing the door behind me,

I returned several days later to meet with David Rapach,

leaving me in total darkness. I was surprised to discover

the designer and owner of the facility. A former school

that the surface of the pool barely touched my knees,

counselor, he described the year-long effort to strip the

and I confidently lowered myself into the lukewarm

interior of the building and to enhance the plumbing. The

water. Emily had told me that I might try to hold my

doorway to the float rooms is a top-hung barn door that

head up, but that would stress my neck muscles, so I

slides to isolate the studio and the float rooms. He took

gingerly relaxed my neck until I felt my total body relax,

special pride in a wooden plaque designed by himself and

supported by the saline water.

his wife, with a hand-carved name plate of LEVITY and a circular plaque with three rolling waves.

I accepted my loss of control, sure that I was in safe hands. I didn’t have to do anything but slowly relax.

Mundane thoughts asked for my attention, but they quickly disappeared. I became engaged with the dark, the gentle swirls, the silence, and the sense of freedom.

It seemed only minutes had passed when I heard the gentle music signaling the end of the session. I lifted the door and started to maneuver my body to stand up and step out, but I discovered that my leg muscles had totally relaxed, so I held on to convenient hand rails to access the shower.

A bit wobbly, I dressed and returned to the studio. Emily welcomed me with a cold flask of water, and asked about my experience. As I described my initial disorientation, she explained that the unfamiliar transition from terra

To the right of the entrance of Levity Spa, you can see a wooden plaque desigend by owner David Rapach and his wife. Its three rolling waves are a representation of a Theta wave as it is seen in a medical scanner, an image that appears on the screen when the patient slips into sleep

firma to floating is normal for new clients, and assured me that my next experience would be less challenging.

It takes two or three floats to learn to relax and let the water carry you, and then you feel comfortable to release your stresses.

“That is a representation of a Theta wave as it is seen in a medical brain scanner,” he said. “It’s an image that appears on the screen when the patient slips into sleep.

That’s akin to what happens when you are floating in the pod.”

Art melds with science and technology at Levity. If you’re interested in trying it out, you can find the studio at 2635 Murray Avenue, several steps up from the recently-restored Howard Levin Clubhouse at the former Poli restaurant site. Sessions are prepaid and may be scheduled online at levityfloatstudio.com.

“It takes two or three floats to learn to relax and let the water carry you,” she said, “and then you feel comfortable to release your stresses.”

Summer 2019 | 27

Squirrel Hill Night Market & 2019 Live Music Preview

By Natalie Kovacic THE POPULAR SQUIRREL HILL Night Market returns to Murray Avenue

2019 Squirrel Hill Night Market Entertainment Schedule

this summer on Saturdays June 22nd, August 24th, and September 28th from 6:00-10:00pm.

Inspired by pop-up night markets in Asia and around the world, the Squirrel Hill Night Market is a free, outdoor street festival that features over 100 I Made It! Market artists selling handmade wares; local live bands, art, and performers; as well as food from Squirrel Hill restaurants and 15 unique food trucks. There are

Please note: schedule is subject to change.

three markets this summer all on the third Thursday of June, August, and September.

Dogs on a leash are permitted at the

SATURDAY, JUNE 24

events.

6:00 pm: Sunburst School of Music 7:00 pm: The Sho 8:00 pm: Matt Calvetti & Friends 9:00 pm: Moat Rats

Organized by the Squirrel Hill Urban Coalition, Uncover Squirrel Hill, and their local partners, the Night Markets are the largest event held in the neighborhood each year, covering three blocks of the business

SATURDAY, AUGUST 22

district on Murray Avenue between Forbes

6:00 pm: Sunburst School of Music 7:00 pm: Hell’s Oasis 8:00 pm: The Telephone Line 9:00 pm: Abstract Theory

great community partner to Squirrel Hill,

and Beacon Streets. Huntington Bank, a returns as the 2019 Presenting Sponsor.

Since the series began five years ago, SHUC’s Litter Patrol has provided

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28TH

volunteers to help with the cleanup during

6:00-8:00 pm: Steel City Ukuleles 8:00-10:00 pm: Relics

Business District looks its best. A fun way

and after the events and ensuring the for teens and college students to earn service hours, please consider signing up as a volunteer this summer. For more information, please send your questions to info@shuc.org, or go online and sign up as a volunteer at https://shuc.org/ join-the-coalition/

28 | shuc.org

Hell’s Oasis

Playing August 24 @ Squirrel HIll Night Market LAST MONTH, we sat down with Ginger and Alexis Polozoff of local rock band duo, Hell’s Oasis, playing at this summer’s Squirrel Hill Night Market on Saturday, August 24th. Read on to find out why technology has revolutionized bands like theirs, what it’s like to be married to your bandmate, and where you can see them on the Pittsburgh music festival circuit this summer.

Thanks for meeting with us! Tell us, how did Hell’s Oasis come to be? How long have you known each other?

ALEXIS: We met in Austin, Texas, during the 90s.

Ginger answered an ad for a singer for a band I had at the time. We played in a variety of bands together after that during our time in Austin. Those bands have come and gone since, and we started a family in the early 2000s. But we’ve been together since Austin.

We dove back into making new music recently and created a new album we’re proud of.

Hell’s Oasis is a newcomer to the Squirrel Hill Night Market. What can people expect to hear at your August performance?

ALEXIS: We’re going to play a 14-song set of our new album, which an eclectic mix of 90s, alternative, indie, and folk music. It definitely runs the rock and roll gamut.

We’re bringing a light show programmed to our set, and fog—so it should be a fun performance for people of all ages.

How has your music evolved since you first began playing together?

Do you have any upcoming shows? Where else can people check you out this summer?

GINGER: When we first started out in a full band together, recording music was much more difficult. We had to book studio time, and everyone had to be as efficient as possible because we were paying for the studio by the hour. But technology has revolutionized the way we can record. We can do it at home now.

We can take a couple of days to record the vocals. We can add layers and harmonies and different elements to the music to make it better. That’s given us a lot of freedom.

GINGER: We have a good lineup of appearances this summer we’re excited about. We’re playing the Deutschtown Music Festival (July 12-13), the City of Pittsburgh’s Wednesday Night Concert Series (August 14), Summer Fridays at the Frick, and the Squirrel Hill Night Market, of course, among others.

ALEXIS: More recently we’re trying to focus on the songwriting, too, rather than trying to wow people with shredding guitars and technique. We want to get back to having a full, live band someday, but we’re focused on the songwriting. Great songs are the ones you remember.

ALEXIS: If you know of any good drummers or bassists who want to play with us, they’re welcome to apply!

You can hear tracks from Hell’s Oasis latest EP, Underbite, on their website at hellsoasis.net and see them live on the Huntington Bank Stage at the Squirrel Hill Night Market on Saturday. August 24th.

Summer 2019 | 29

THAI BOXING COMES TO SQUIRREL HILL

By Margaret Whitmer

LOOKING FOR A NEW WAY to exercise and gain some self-confidence? Stop and visit SITKIATNIN, (pronounced sit-KYIT-nin), a new kickboxing gym located at 1918 Murray Avenue. The facility opened its doors for business in February, and to celebrate its official opening in March, Buddhist Monks performed a traditional, interactive blessing of the gym for some fifty enthusiastic members and friends.

While there are various types of kickboxing, owners Michael Seamans, his wife Marissa Barr-Hartman, and David Reese teach Muay Thai, a form of martial arts popular in Thailand, that focuses on fitness and self-

Muay Thai is referred to as the “art of eight limbs,” which means two hands, two legs, two knees, and two elbows. Beginners learn by training with a partner. One partner holds pads while the other practices instructorled combinations of strikes, allowing the partners to experience the essence of the sport without actually being hit. The ultimate goal for practitioners is the ability to defend oneself without the pads.

But it’s not the goal for everyone, as Marissa explains.

Some people may never give up the pads, and that’s okay. Sitkiatnin offers classes for all levels — beginners, intermediate and advanced — and one designed specifically for women. Children’s classes are being

defense. Because fitness and martial arts are popular in

developed to be offered in the near future.

general, they want to create a space that catered to that

CONTINUED on page 33

audience. “When you only do one thing, you do your best and train it in it’s true form,” says Marissa. It’s the only gym of its kind in the area.

Marissa became familiar with Muay Thai after spending time in Thailand — it’s the country’s national sport.

Years later, when she found regular gym workouts and traditional boxing lacking, she decided to train with Head Coach David Reese, and it was her “aha” moment.

She quickly embraced the physical discipline, as well the playful aspects, that are the cornerstones of Thai culture. Her enthusiasm for the sport soon spread to her husband, Michael, and the partnership with David for the gym was formed.

30 | shuc.org

SQUIRREL HILL HISTORY

Buildings that Fostered Healthy Minds, Bodies & Souls in Squirrel Hill

By Helen Wilson, Vice President, Squirrel Hill Historical Society

SOME OF SQUIRREL HILL’S BUILDINGS, both still

school with preschool to grade 8 students. But in 1922,

standing and long gone, were built after a trolley route

it was St. Philomena’s Roman Catholic Church, the only

was established through Squirrel Hill in 1893, resulting in a

Catholic church in Squirrel Hill. Today, the school rents

swift and massive population increase. Developers bought

space to small Jewish and Christian congregations for

up farms and estates and divided them into smaller lots

services on weekends.

for new housing, and the business district grew.

Farther south down Beechwood Boulevard, Browns Hill Many of the first purchasers of the new homes were

Bible Chapel was built in 1957 on the stone foundations of

Scots-Irish Presbyterians, who built several churches

Colfax Public School No. 2. The school closed in 1907 but

around Squirrel Hill. Methodists, Lutherans, Catholics,

reopened in 1916 as the Roosevelt School Annex when

and other Christian denominations also built churches in

that school became severely overcrowded.

the neighborhood.

Not far from Browns Hill Bible Chapel at the tail end of Jewish families came to Squirrel Hill beginning in the

Hazelwood Avenue by Saline Street is a small building

early 1900s. Their temples and synagogues followed

that says “Meeting Room” on the display board out

them or were founded by them after they arrived;

front. That building was once the Immanual Evangelical

the Jewish population increased to 40 percent in the

Lutheran Church until, around 1935, it was purchased

mid-1900s. As time went on, attendance at Christian

by the Squirrel Hill Community Club, a women’s service

churches gradually declined. Some of the churches were

organization begun in 1918 to aid the Red Cross in World

demolished, while others were put to different uses that

War I. People who live near the building today still

continued to cultivate a rich community experience.

remember going to sewing classes, dances, summer bible school, and other activities there. The Community Club

One example of the transition is Community Day School

lasted until at least the late 1960s.

at 6424 Forward Avenue. Today, it is a vibrant Jewish

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Summer 2019 | 31

CONTINUED from page 31 The Children’s Institute at 1405 Shady Avenue has been

UPCOMING 2019 PROGRAMS

offering services to children with special needs for over a

SQUIRREL HILL HISTORICAL SOCIETY

hundred years, first as the Home for Crippled Children, then the

TUESDAY, JUNE 11 “Catahecassa Springs Eternal”

Institute of Pittsburgh. Its Day School and parking lot along

Matthew Falcone, President of Preservation Pittsburgh, will discuss the history of Catahecassa Fountain (and also Snyder Spring), a prominent feature of Schenley Park and recent addition to the City’s Register of Historic Places, as well as its future prospects.

Church, a large edifice that was there until 1962.

TUESDAY, JULY 23 “History of the Squirrel Hill Poetry Workshop and a Reading by the Poets” (note: date changed from second Tuesday to fourth Tuesday)

Presbyterian is still on the corner and still actively committed

Rosaly DeMaios Roffman and members of the Squirrel Hill Poetry Workshop will present a talk about the Squirrel Hill Poetry Workshop, which began in 1978 to bring together local poets for reading and a discussion of each other’s work.

A reading of works by members will follow the talk. Nearly all the members have published at least one book or chapbook, several have edited poetry anthologies, and two have founded magazines and online journals.

the budding Jewish congregation that became Beth Shalom

Industrial Home for Crippled Children, and now the Children’s Northumberland Street sit on the site of the Third Presbyterian

Mt. Olivet Presbyterian Church stood on Phillips Avenue where the parking lot of Colfax School is now. When the church was demolished, its congregation was absorbed into Sixth Presbyterian Church at the corner of Forbes and Murray. Sixth to social causes. Diagonally across the intersection from the church is the building where Beth Shalom got its start. That building still stands, now housing Uncle Sam’s Gourmet Subs, The Squirrel Hill Newsstand, and the Squirrel Hill Café. When rented a room upstairs for services in 1917, the building was the Orpheum theater. Beth Shalom was the first Jewish congregation to be founded in Squirrel Hill. It moved to its current location at the corner of Shady Avenue and Beacon Street in 1923.

The Jewish Community Center near the corner of Forbes and Murray had its roots in the Irene Kaufmann Settlement House in the Hill District. When IKS decided to establish satellite

TUESDAY, AUGUST 13 “The History of The Frick Pittsburgh, the Fricks and Clayton”

facilities in 1943, it rented first-floor space in a building on

Speaker to be announced. This program will be about the Frick family and its most important legacies in the city—their mansion and art museum in Point Breeze.

earlier to give boys a place to go to exercise and have fun

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10: “Getting to Know Our Neighbors: The History of Hazelwood” JaQuay Edward Carter, Founding President, Greater Hazelwood Historical Society of Pittsburgh, will present the vibrant history of Hazelwood, a neighborhood with close ties to Squirrel Hill, and talk about its future.

Forward Avenue—the one with Forward Lanes upstairs—taking over the Boy’s Club that had been established a few months instead of roaming the streets. The building still stands, but Forward Lanes is now closed, and the ground-floor space where IKS was located is the Squirrel Hill Sports Bar. IKS moved to its present location on Forbes Avenue near Murray in 1949. It merged with other Jewish organizations to form the Jewish Community Center in 1974. The current building is the third on the site. The JCC is a community hub that offers exercise facilities, classes, lectures, performances, lunches, day care, afterschool programs for children, and many other activities for people in all stages of their lives.

Squirrel Hill is a relatively young community. Most of its institutional and commercial buildings are the first ones ever CONTINUED on page 33

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.

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built at their locations. Few predate the late 1800s, but

The owners stress that they want Sitkiatnin to be a

the buildings haven’t been static. Through the years

welcoming space open to all; a place of togetherness and

they have changed purposes and been altered while still

comfort, exemplifying Muay, a derivative of the Sanskrit

nurturing healthy bodies, minds and souls.

word, “Mayva” which means “unite together.” It’s no wonder they’re very excited to be located in Squirrel Hill,

***

a community they feel exemplifies those values.

CORRECTIONS: In the Spring issue, “One Building, Three Congregations,” stated that the land on Wilkins Avenue

For more information and a class schedule,

was donated to Tree of Life in 1956. The correct date

visit www.sknmuaythai.com or stop in to Sitkiatnin at

is 1946. Also, the Pittsburgh Playhouse, not Tree of

1918 Murray Ave.

Life, partnered with Point Park College, now Point Park University, to use the Playhouse building.

If you are interested in learning more about Squirrel Hill history, Squirrel Hill Historical Society (SHHS) hosts programs 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 the full listing of upcoming lectures and events. Please consider joining the SHHS. Membership is only $15 per year or $25 for families. Programs may be attended free of charge.

Summer 2019 | 33

ZONE 4 POLICE TIPS

Safety Tips When Visiting City Parks

By David Shifren, Zone 4 Pittsburgh Police Officer in the trunk before you leave home. Don’t advertise to everyone in sight—and especially to thieves lurking out of sight: leafy summer trees offer excellent concealment— that you’ve brought something pricey enough to be worth transferring to your trunk.

Also consider disengaging your in-car trunk-release before leaving home, too. You’d be surprised at how easy this is – just check your owner’s manual, ask your dealer, or surf online for your vehicle’s make/model. Then even if someone does break into your passenger compartment they still can’t get into your trunk. The minor downside?

Your remote key-fob won’t open the trunk from afar, so

S UMMERTIME MEANS time outdoors, but though

you’ll have to do it the old-fashioned way, inserting the

chirping birds and green parks beckon, not everyone in

key in the lock and twisting. To people on the go this

the park comes to commune with nature.

may seem a waste of precious seconds, but think of it as a throwback to simpler times, a nostalgic nod to some

If you drive to a city park you’ll likely leave your car

quaint, bygone era.

along some tree-lined and pretty – but remote – paved roadway or in a gravel lot. Know that Theft from

And a special caveat to runners:

Vehicle (that notorious urban scourge!) occurs not just

If you’re feeling inspired by the city’s recent marathon, by

on city streets and unlit private driveways overnight:

all means hit the trails – and kudos to you for stashing

Opportunistic thieves target cars parked near hiking

wallet and cell-phone in your trunk ahead of time. But

trails, where they know an unguarded vehicle may sit for

don’t undermine that abundance of caution by making

30 minutes, an hour, or longer – more than enough time

a poor choice about your car key. You may love to run

to open an unlocked door or break a window, snatch

unencumbered, hate being weighed down by even that

anything at hand, then disappear along those very same

tiny bit of metal, but pin the key to your shorts, attach

trails the vehicle-owner may be hiking.

it to a wrist-band or devise some other way to keep it on your person. One thing that’s never safe is placing

Our advice? Lock up and leave nothing showing, not

a key atop one of your car wheels. “Hiding” a key there

even things you think no thief would want. Thieves tend

begs for trouble, as anyone who’s returned to an empty

to be optimists at heart: Seeing an old pair of jeans or

parking space discovers, especially once they realize they

balled-up sweatshirt across the back seat, they’ll assume

don’t even have their phone to call for help.

a wallet, pricey smartphone or Rolex is hidden in the pocket. They’re wrong most of the time, but they hit

From all of us at Zone 4, stay safe this summer!

the jackpot often enough to stay in the game. And then you’re left buying new window glass.

The best strategy is to bring no valuables at all, though if you do bring phone, wallet, purse, etc., store them

34 | shuc.org

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

NEIGHBORHOOD NOTES

Karen Markle joins The Children’s Institute as Chief Strategy Officer Robert Levin and Barbara Krause and invited guests cut the ribbon at the dedication ceremony for Krause Commons

KAREN MARKLE, MA, BCBA has joined The Children’s Institute of Pittsburgh as Chief Strategy Officer, bringing over 20 years experience in behavioral health, autism, and education.

“Throughout its long history, The Children’s Institute has shown a continuing commitment to reimagine and redesign its continuum of services to best meet evolving community needs,” says Markle who will cultivate that energy and creative vision into strategic alternatives that position the nonprofit for long-term success.

Nancy Gale (left), Executive Director of Jewish Residential Services (JRS) and Judy Cohen, JRS’s Board Chair.

Gateway to Squirrel Hill Re-born with Dedication of Krause Commons THE DEDICATION OF KRAUSE COMMONS on April

“Karen is the right person at the right time for The

11 marked the rebirth of the gateway to Squirrel Hill.

Children’s Institute,” says Dr. Wendy Pardee, President

Built on the site of the former Poli’s Restaurant, Krause

and CEO. “Our areas for growth align well with her

Commons houses the administrative offices of Jewish

history of developing intellectual and developmental

Residential Services, an expanded Sally and Howard

programs for children in both outpatient care and

Levin Clubhouse and 33 units of affordable housing, 17 of

education, which have produced phenomenal results.

which are reserved for individuals with disabilities. Public

She brings to The Children’s Institute her ability to build

officials who spoke at the ceremony included U.S. Rep.

relationships, leverage existing programs, and establish

Mike Doyle, State Sen. Jay Costa, State Rep. Dan Frankel,

new services.”

County Executive Rich Fitzgerald, Mayor Bill Peduto and Councilman Corey O’Connor. The $16.6 million project

To learn more about The Children’s Institute’s vision for an amazing future, visit amazingkids.org/vision2023.

was developed in partnership with ACTION-Housing, the Urban Redevelopment Authority, and SHUC.

Summer 2019 | 35

EVENTS AND HAPPENINGS

Summer Upcoming Events TIKKUN LEIL SHAVUOT: A NIGHT OF JEWISH LEARNING JCC Pittsburgh 5738 Forbes Avenue Saturday June 8 | beginning at 10 pm

Study with local rabbis and thinkers in a fewtival of learning from across the Jewish spectrum.

A special program designed for teens will be available. After, stick around for the Young Adult Tikkun Leil Shavuot learning until 5:00 am! Free and open to the public. https://jewishpgh.org/even/tikkun-leil-shavuot/

DISH! A Cookbook Club

CLP Squirrel Hill 5801 Forbes Ave Wednesday June 10 | 6:30-7:30 pm Join the Carnegie Library for Dish!, a cookbook club, hosted at CLP-Squirrel HIll this month and chat about Zahav: A world of Israeli Cooking by Michael Solomonov.

On the Second Wednesday of every month, foodies unite at various CLP locations and out in the community to talk about cookbooks, share stories and cultures and explore all things culinary.

Come ready to discuss the recipes you have tried and sample a dish prepared by CLP staff. For more information, visit www.carnegielibrary.org.

FORBES AVENUE OF SPEED

Forbes & Shady Avenues Friday July 19 | 6:30-8:30 pm

Part of the Vintage Grand Prix, racers will once again be at this popular family car show, parading from the paddock, through Squirrel Hill, and then park up and down Forbes Avenue. Come see the cars, talk to the drivers, and enjoy specials at local restaurants and food trucks.

FIRST FRIDAY NATURE WALKS SQUIRREL HILL NIGHT MARKET

Beginning at Murray & Forbes Avenue 4th Saturdays of June 22 | August 24 | September 28 | 6:00-10:00 pm Three blocks of 120 pop-ups, this free outdoor street festival has fun for adults and kids of all ages! Enjoy handmade wares and crafts from over 100 local artisans, as well as live music, art, performers, and cuisine from over 15 local food trucks and Squirrel Hill restaurants.

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Frick Environmental Center 2005 Beechwood Boulevard First Fridays beginning June 7 | 10:00-11:00 am Join a naturalist at the Frick Environmental Center for a relaxed hike through the woods. The hike is designed for park pals ages 50+. It’s not designed to be strenuous, but Pittsburgh is a hilly place so there will be some ups and downs. Please wear sturdy shoes and dress for the weather.

Free to participate. For more information: www. pittsburghparks.org/park-events.

FRIDAYS AT THE FRICK

NEW MOMS COFFEE

Now in its fourth season, this highly popular 10-week series features a diverse variety of free outdoor performances, family-friendly activities, and varied dining options. Visitors may bring their own blanket and enjoy grab-and-go food and beverages from the Frick or bring their own basket. Free to attend. For a full schedule, visit www.thefrickpittsburgh.org.

Come (with your baby, of course) to these informal get-togethers to relax, have a cup of coffee, and share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences with other new moms. Free and open to all moms with babies from birth to 6 months. You don’t have to be a patient to attend.

Registration not required.

The Frick 7227 Reynolds Street Friday evenings, June 21-August 23 5-:00-9:00 pm

The Well @ Kids Plus Pediatrics 4070 Beechwood Boulevard Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays 10:30 am-12:30 pm

BACH, BEETHOVEN, AND BRUNCH CLASSICAL MUSIC SERIES Mellon Park Fifth and Shady Avenues Sundays June 16- August 11 | 10:30 am -12:00 pm

This longtime favorite series entertains music lovers on the lawn at Mellon Park. Satisfy your appetite for classical music by treating yourself to a special Sunday morning composed of Bach, Beethoven, and Brunch. Don’t miss the Best Brunch competition during intermission! This series is sponsored by the Squirrel Hill Urban Coalition, WQED-FM 89.3, and the Pittsburgh Center for the Arts. Free to attend.

OPEN MIC NIGHT @ PASTOLI PIZZA Pastoli Pizza 1900 Murray Avenue Tuesdays | 7:30 pm-10:30 pm

Head to Pastoli’s Pizza for their weekly open mic night! PA system on a stand and microphone on a stand are available. Up to 2 microphones and and 2 guitars can plug in. Sign in at mic 7:30 pm. Up to 5 songs per participant.

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Summer 2019 | 37

EVENTS AND HAPPENINGS

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JFCS CAREER DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOPS

Jewish Family and Children Services 5743 Bartlett Street Wednesdays in June, various times The JFCS Career Development Center hosts a variety of workshops throughout June and the summer at their Bartlett Street office, covering topics such as Career Branding & Your Resume, Interviewing Techniques, the Art of Networking, and more. There is a $20 fee for workshops, or free for JFCS Career Development Center clients enrolled in a qualifying program. Please visit www.jfcspgh.org/events for a complete schedule and times.

NOW OPEN

ENROLLING HOUSE Friday, April 5th 9:30 AM

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

You’ll never be bored.”

-Jim Quinn, retired Marine Machinist

THE SQUIRREL HILL FARMERS’ MARKET Public Parking Lot between Beacon and Bartlett Streets Sundays May 2- November 22 9:00 am - 1:00 pm

The Squirrel Hill Farmers’ Markets returned to Squirrel HIll in May and will remain open every Sunday from 9:00 am - 1:00 pm until November 22. The Market is located just off of Murray Avenue between Beacon and Bartlett in the public parking lot.

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

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