INSIDE MJCC returns as Jewish community's living room – page 2

101-year-old Frieda Cohen to receive Nemer Award – page 2 July 21, 2021 / Av 12, 5781 Volume 56, Issue 16 From Ethiopia to Israel to international The eastside is a happening place art fame – page 3 BY MOON Jewish options are multiply- Song of Miriam honors ing on Portland’s eastside in volunteers – page 4 the Eastside Jewish Commons’ beautiful, airy new home con- Portlander to coach veniently located on Sandy Maccabiah masters' Boulevard. – page 5 “Our goal is to offer space to basketball the community at low cost … (to enable) lots of different fla- Shaarie Torah annual vors for Jewish life,” says EJC meeting – page 5 Board Chair Mia Birk. Congregation Shir Tik- New Faces at CSP vah, the leaseholder for the – page 6 13,000-square-foot space, and JFGP moved into a suite of four of- Young campers enjoy B’nai B’rith Camp’s first eastside day camp fices off the entry vestibule at July 12-16. The new Eastside Jewish Commons will be home for Michael Jeser 2420 NE Sandy Blvd. on May many community programs, including two more weeks of BB Day honored – page 6 1 and held its first full Shabbat Camp Eastside Aug. 2-6 and Aug. 9-13. service and activities June 26. Principal transition at In July, as COVID restrictions “The energy in the Com- July 6. “From giving tours Maimonides – page 7 lifted and the new executive di- mons this first week has been to interested community or- rector came on board, EJC and amazing,” says Cara Abrams, ganizations and individuals, its partners began presenting who began her position as to connecting with Jewish Kesser Israel unveils bigger activities. EJC Executive Director on See EJC, page 10 expansion – page 9 Dignity Grows hosts Hand in Hand models coexistence bat mitzvah – page 9 BY DEBORAH MOON A bilingual, multicultural school Community Chaplain in Israel cofounded by a Portland native has become a model of coex- Cohen says we need istence in a time when that approach mensches – page 12 is in short supply. Founded with one school in Jeru- In face of Tisha B'Av salem, Hand in Hand now has seven violence, compromise schools throughout Israel, with more than 2,000 students ages 3 to 18. Stu- required – page 13 dents learn both Hebrew and Arabic from Jewish and Arab co-teachers. Jobs Board: Tivnu, “Hand in Hand is a model of co- PJ Library, CSP existence – a model people can see – page 14 The Hand in Hand alumni network has created a revolutionary works,” says cofounder Lee Gordon. “It’s going to take more than Hand in web series called Mish Mish. In each episode, alumni hosts – page 14 Noa and Juman explore pop culture, art, music and cultur- Hand for reconciliation, (but) we are Birth: Rohr al identity across Israel. Learn something new and be chal- part of that process to bring people lenged a bit in each new episode. Check out all the episodes at together.” Obituaries: Blumstein, handinhandk12.org/mish-mish-episodes/. See HAND IN HAND, page 8 Nechemia – page 14 MJCC reopens as “living room of community” BY DEBORAH MOON about-us/cafe-at-the-j), which The Mittleman Jewish Com- expects to resume serving food munity Center is poised to inside around the time Portland reclaim its title as the “living Jewish Academy students return room of the Jewish commu- to campus Aug. 31. Until then, nity” as the lobby reopens, the Café will continue to offer in-person classes resume and kosher meals to go for Shabbat sports options expand. and holidays. And owner Allen But as COVID restrictions Levin continues to offer kosher, have been relaxed, the MJCC plant-based meals at Garbonzos moves forward into a new food cart in the MJCC parking normal drawing on the lessons lot. (Those attending events learned during 16 months of such as concerts and films at the pandemic existence. The J has Zidell Yards on the South Water- The lobby at ther Mittleman Jewish Community Center is starting to received several grants to up- front also can enjoy Garbonzos’ feel like the community's living room once again. grade the ballroom to facilitate falafel, veggie kofta made from hybrid events. Hybrid events Beyond Burger, grilled vegeta- allow those outside the metro ble plates, and a variety of sal- area or those unable to come ads and dips). to the J to attend virtually the On July 12, guests were once many community events held again welcomed to the center, in the ballroom during normal and guest passes to use the years. Fitness classes, Hebrew pools and fitness facilities be- conversation and knitting club came available. That week, an continue to have online options. array of in-person programs “The pandemic has allowed us began meeting in the lobby. to leverage technology to serve Canasta and Mah Jongg classes a larger area – we are the only began in person. More classes JCC in the state,” says MJCC and cultural programs will be Executive Director Steve Albert. Basketball players have returned to the MJCC gym for drop-in added in the coming weeks. “It is another tool in the toolbox games and practice 11 am-1 pm Monday, Wednesday and Friday. The “Shabbat table” in the lob- to serve the community.” expanded hours and programs Members can now use the pool by once again features infor- The center posts updates on on the page reflect both the cen- without reservations and can mation from local synagogues open hours, programs and ter’s ability to hire necessary reserve racquetball courts and to help people find a place to guidelines on its website at or- staff and assumes that the state basketball courts during open celebrate Shabbat. Other tables egonjcc.org/we-are-open. The or city will not need to re-im- hours. MJCC day camps and feature MJCC program infor- webpage notes: “A great deal pose COVID restrictions. specialty camps presented by mation, local resources and will be changing at the MJCC Drop-in basketball has re- the Skyhawks are meeting in publications, including printed in the coming weeks as we turned to the J’s gym to bring the J’s Sportsplex and in the copies of the Jewish Review. gradually reopen facilities and friends and strangers together gym. Adult and youth soc- Bulletin boards hold communi- resume programs and services. three days a week for physical cer leagues, which met in the ty announcements. Our reopening will take place activity and camaraderie, just spring, will return in full force All of which gives the space in stages, and we’ve included one of the ways recreation is in the fall season. the renewed feeling of a com- an overview of these phases.” returning to the J as we emerge Also set to return by fall is the fortable and inviting living Steve notes that the dates for from the global pandemic. Café at the J (oregonjcc.org/ room. Frieda Cohen to receive Nemer Award on 101st birthday Congregation Shaarie Torah Cohen, award presentation by It’s been a tradition.” Men’s Club will present the Steph Kotkins and awardee re- Frieda’s father and mother Harry R. Nemer Service Award marks by Frieda. came to Portland from Russia in to Frieda Cohen on her 101st An article that ran in a 2014 1909 and joined Shaarie Torah. birthday. The 10 am, July 25, Shaarie Torah Bulletin includ- Frieda’s recollections of grow- event will be on Zoom. ed several quotes from Frieda: ing up in the Jewish enclave in This event was originally “I’ve been associated with South Portland are included in planned for 2020 on Frieda’s Shaarie Torah so long that ev- We Lived There, Too and The Frieda Cohen and son, Richard. 100th birthday but was post- erything about it is a part of me. of Oregon, 1850-1950. poned due to the pandemic. It’s like being home. Shaarie Frieda and her late husband, joined the business. The event will include a mu- Torah has been an intrinsic part Ben, started an automotive To register for the Zoom link, sical piece by Michael Allen of our lives. I want Shaarie To- supply business more than 70 email [email protected]. Harrison, remarks from Rabbi rah to continue for many more years ago. Frieda continued The event will livestream on Joshua Rose and Rabbi Arthur generations. My family has al- to work there until she was 98 Shaarie Torah’s website shaa- Zuckerman, a family history ways felt that you need to take and her son, Richard, and three rietorah.org/stream/, Facebook at Shaarie Torah with Rick care of what’s important to you. of her four grandsons also and YouTube channel. 2 Jewish Review July 21, 2021 30 years after Operation Solomon, a painting stirs memories of rescue BY DEBORAH MOON Thirty years ago, Steve “Rosy” Rosenberg was board president of the Jewish Feder- ation of Greater Portland as Federations worldwide raised millions of dollars to help Nirit Takele, left, was only 6 years old airlift nearly 15,000 Jews from Ethiopia to when she was one of 14,300 Ethiopian Israel. Jews who were airlifted on 35 aircrafts This month, he and his wife, Ellen Lip- from Addis Ababa (Ethiopia’s capital) to pman, hosted one of those evacuees for Israel in less than 36 hours. Steve "Rosy" Shabbat dinner in Tel Aviv. Rosenberg, who was board president of “Nirit, who came to Shabbat dinner by Portland's Jewish Federation at the time, us this month, was 6 years old when she recently purchased one of Nirit's paintings. boarded one of those flights,” says Rosy. Below, Rosy and his wife, Ellen Lippman, “Last year, she was named Israel’s best hosted the now famous young artist for a young artist and now appears in exhibitions Shabbat dinner in Tel Aviv. The couple and around the world. It took us two years to the artist were joined for dinner by Port- convince her to sell one of her paintings to landers Bianca and Tony Urdes and their us. We were honored to have her share her daughter. The Urdes' shared their own story and art with us on this historic Shab- escape to freedom stories – from Roma- bat.” nia. The Urdes family recently became Jewish Federation of Greater Portland Israeli citizens. President and CEO Marc Blattner recent- ly shared about the 30th anniversary of Operation Solomon in his weekly Marc’s Remarks email. In his column, Marc wrote: “What is less widely known is that at the last-minute American Jews (including through our Jewish Federation) raised $35 million to cover the (ransom) payment demanded by the Ethiopian government to allow the Jews to leave the country.” The speaker at that Federation dinner 30 years ago was to have been Senator Ru- dolph Ely Boschwitz, who had just finished negotiating that deal with the Ethiopian president for the bribe. “Unfortunately, he canceled because he was busy working on the deal,” says Rosy. Hearing Nirit’s story now was inspiration- al and an honor, he adds. “Nirit served in the IDF at a border cross- ing,” he says. “When she told the story, she broke down in tears remembering the death of her friend, who was killed in a terror in- cident at the crossing. After the IDF, she got a menial job at a factory putting buttons on clothes. One day when she passed Shenkar (School of Engineering and Design near Tel Aviv) – Israel’s premier college for the 2019 article in Haaretz (haaretz.com). The Haaretz article calls Nirit one of the arts along with Bezalel (Academy of Arts The article relates: “In 2016, when she biggest successes in the younger genera- and Design) – she decided she wanted to was 30, she completed her studies and her tion of Israeli artists with Ethiopian roots. go there. Within weeks, she put togeth- star began to rise. About 10 months later, “This personal story showcases the in- er a portfolio to present to administrators her painting 'Mikveh' was acquired for the credible work of the Jewish Federation for admission. She had very little formal Israel Museum. The work explores an ex- system,” said Marc after seeing Rosy’s art training. She talked her way into a full perience described by an Ethiopian immi- post about Nirit on Facebook. “We truly are scholarship and some money to live on … grant in a documentary in which she was responsible one for each other. And, even And the rest is history.” forced to immerse in a ritual bath under more so, one never knows the incredible Nirit’s story from Ethiopia to interna- the withering eye of Orthodox rabbis who future talents and achievements of those tional acclaim is told in depth in an April doubted her Jewishness.” we may save.” Jewish Review July 21, 2021 3 Song of Miriam 2020-21 honorees, part 4 LIZA MILLINER sphere of togetherness created by Diana at group Honored by Congregation Neveh Shalom gatherings has helped build the group. Liza Milliner Hadassah has been part of Diana’s life since started her vol- childhood, and she recently stepped down as unteer work at Portland president. Her accomplishments in- Neveh Shalom as clude organizing health seminars, teas and au- youth director for thor visits. She brought enthusiasm to the task USY/Kadima and of delegating tasks to the right people, and her then served on the positive attitude infected others and was felt in membership, adult the tasks she took on herself. education and long- Diana has served on several boards in the term planning com- Jewish community and helped with fundraising mittees. events for local and national organizations. She joined the Being part of the community and helping where board of directors needed has always been a part of her family’s 10 years ago and now serves on the executive values. Diana is inspired by her parents, who board. taught her to give back to the community that Liza was involved in the founding of Keshet, helped her family start new lives in Portland. the LGBTQ group at the synagogue. She was For 27 years, the Jewish instrumental in organizing and creating Jewish Women’s Round Table has SHERYL CHOMAK Pride Greater PDX, where Jewish organizations Honored by P’nai Or recognized women volunteers came together as a community to march in Port- P’nai Or refers in the community at its Song of land’s Pride Parade. Liza recently cochaired, to their honoree, Miriam Awards Brunch. with her wife, Beth, a very successful virtual Sheryl Chomak, In the face of the pandemic, fundraiser/auction. as its “Holy Poet, the brunch was cancelled last Liza was one of 20 volunteers in the Portland Occupy-Portland year. This year, JWRT leaders community accepted to participate in the Wex- Prophet, Deep- still believed it would not be ner Heritage Leadership Program. This two-year Heart Giving Mem- safe to hold an indoor event commitment includes intensive Jewish learning ber, Eternal Friend that often draws more than 300 and leadership training. of the No Longer people. Liza is cheerful, a good listener and a dedicated Living, Lover of Since the first brunch in volunteer who happily takes on responsibilities. Justice, and phe- June 1993, between 15 and She is an example of the new leadership in the nomenal Passover 23 women have received the Jewish community. and Event Cook.” annual award. Honorees have Neveh Shalom looks forward to seeing Liza During the past pandemic year, Sheryl has been been selected by more than 25 continue as a leader at the synagogue and in the a vital, regular participant in P’nai Or’s Zoom congregations and organiza- community and says “Kol Hakavod” (All Hon- communities, including chant group, shiva min- tions. Nearly 500 women have ors), Liza! yans and Torah writing group. She also advocat- been honored since the award ed for those who needed it, either for individuals was created. DIANA LINDEMANN or as part of peaceful human rights groups. JWRT and the Jewish Review Honored by Hadassah of Portland Following years of professional work as a psy- chologist with a focus on helping clients deal have united to ensure Song of Diana Lindemann with trauma, she retired several years ago to Miriam Award nominees from is a first-generation devote time to her beloved garden, family, con- 2020 and 2021 get the recogni- American and sec- ond-generation de- gregation and volunteer work. tion they deserve. Throughout scendant of Holo- Her service has included volunteering at a the next few issues, the Review caust survivors who homeless shelter, helping to care for community will feature pictures of honor- came to the United members with serious health issues, and cooking ees along with a description States to start a new for both individual congregants in need and the of their work and why they are life. congregation’s Passover seders. valuable to their organizations. Because of that Sheryl’s sense of humor and infectious laugh- Following is the fourth group history, in 2010 ter help lift everyone up, particularly when she of three women whose organi- Diana organized a comes to events dressed as a banana. She is an zations selected them to receive group for children incredible cook, talented writer, wise leader, the Song of Miriam. of survivors and refugees called the “Next Gen- beautiful singer and has a passion for Torah The final three honorees will erations Group,” which now has more than 200 study. be profiled in the Aug. 4 issue regular followers. The support and technical P’nai Or calls Sheryl a “shining light” in the of the Jewish Review. skills of family members as well as the atmo- congregation.

You can read the first nine profiles of Marni Glick, Eliana Temkin, Sam Perrin, Hannah Ber- kowitz, Joni Plotkin, Kathleen Doctor, Robin Ellison, Carol Ray Richmond and Shari Raider at jewishportland.org/jewishreview/jr-stories/song-of-miriam-awards-part-1 4 Jewish Review July 21, 2021 Glen Coblens named Maccabiah head coach Portlander Glen Coblens has been named for the Masters 35 and over team and there Coast team, 2 Life. This will be his 25th head coach of the Team USA Men’s Over is a 17-year-old in Seaside trying out for Hood to Coast. On Aug. 27-28, 2021, re- 45 Basketball Team for the 21st Maccabiah the under 18 Men’s Basketball team. lay teams of 8 to12 members each run 199 Games in Israel in July 2022. The Macca- “In addition, my uncle Alan Montrose miles from Timberline Lodge to Seaside. biah Games, will compete in tennis,” says Glen. “I know “I would not miss the opportunity to run also known there are a bunch of talented soccer players and be with our great team,” says Glen. “We as the Jewish in the area, so I hope they will give it a shot. are so fortunate to have such fun communi- Olympics, are I would be happy to talk with anyone about ty members. While it can be challenging to the third-larg- my experience and encourage them to jump run three times in a day, laughing with your est internation- at the opportunity.” teammates makes it a little easier.” al multi-sport Glen invites prospective Maccabians to Glen is a consultant for AMPlify Sports event in the contact him with any questions at 503-705- Psychology, where he counsels athletes, world. 6295 or [email protected]. teams, coaches, parents, officials and pro- “My first For Glen, the Maccabiah is important be- gram directors. Maccabi expe- cause it combines his deep passion for sports Glen was a member of the 1985 Wilson rience was as and Israel with his Jewish heritage. “Having High School state championship basketball an accommo- a Maccabi family who are like-minded Jews team, where he also competed in track and dations manag- around the country and the world strength- field. In college, he played basketball and er in the 1999 ens my and brings joy to me ran track for Western Oregon University. Pan American Maccabi Games in Mexico and my family,” he says. In 2013, Glen won a masters basketball City,” says Glen. “Since then, I have served Next summer, Glen plans to be in Israel national championship for the Multnomah as a team manager, delegation head, chair, for the games with his wife, Mia Birk, and Athletic Club. coach and athlete. (The year) 2022 will be their youngest child, Levy, now 9. Since Glen has more than 30 years of coaching my fifth World Maccabiah Games and over- Mia has family in Israel, they will prob- experience at youth, high school, college, all my 11th Maccabi Games (Pan Ameri- ably go early or stay later to spend time professional and international levels, win- can, Australia and European Games).” with them. Their older children likely will ning three gold medals in international Glen is president of Congregation Neveh be unable to join them as Skyler (22) has a competition, a national championship Shalom, a board member at Maccabi USA, full-time job in New York, and Sasha (19) and coach of the year honors. He current- a cochair of the Portland JCC Maccabi will be a sophomore at Cal Poly and enjoys ly leads a youth basketball program and Games steering committee and a member working at BB Camp as a counselor in the mentors youth coaches and has been in- of B’nai B’rith Men’s Camp. In 2019, summer. strumental in forming youth programs for he was inducted into the Oregon Jewish As a Maccabi athlete, Glen has won one Portland-area high schools. He founded Sports Hall of Fame. gold, one silver and one bronze medal PDX Hoops, which concentrates on youth “I am honored and excited to coach the in basketball, and a silver medal in the skill development. Master’s 45+ team next summer,” says half-marathon and open water swimming. Along with a group of parents, Glen creat- Glen, adding that he hopes this article will He also finished fourth in the 2017 Mac- ed Benchwarmers Basketball, now Pacific prompt interest in the Maccabiah. “Try- cabi Man competition, which included four Rim Basketball, a nonprofit organization outs for most sports are taking place this endurance events held over seven days. for competitive traveling teams, to help summer and fall. I am always happy to talk As an age-group competitor in triathlons, youth develop as people through basket- with interested athletes, parents, coaches, Glen completed his first Ironman, Ironman ball. team managers, etc. I am one of the lucky Arizona, in 2019. He will compete in the Maccabi USA is the official sponsor of the ones who has served in every capacity for Oregon Half Ironman July 25 attempting United States team to the World Maccabiah Maccabi USA.” to qualify for Worlds in the Half Ironman Games and the Pan American and Europe- Though he doesn’t know any local players (70.3 miles). an Maccabi Games, as well as a sponsor of likely to join his team, he does know three This summer, he will captain of the Jew- the JCC Maccabi Games for teens in North basketball players he is pushing to try out ish Federation of Greater Portland Hood to America. Learn more at maccabiusa.com. Shaarie Torah reflects back, looks forward Congregation Shaarie Torah held its an- of new and continuing board members nual meeting via Zoom on Sunday, June and the honoring of retiring trustees. 27. The congregation had the chance to New trustees are Eva Celnik and Allison toast to Rabbi Joshua Rose as his time Fowler. The three retiring trustees are on the CST pulpit came to an end. Video Tamir Heyman, Linda Nemer Singer and greetings from many in the community, Robert Sturtz. including Jordan Schnitzer, were shared Moving forward, the synagogue com- in a lovely tribute. Rabbi Gary Oren, who munity is welcoming Rabbi Gary Oren has now arrived at Shaarie Torah, also as he settles in Portland. Plans are under sent a recorded message wishing success way for the High Holy Days and the rab- to Rabbi Rose in his next venture. The bi’s installation. last section of the meeting was a series The congregation continues its gradu- of reflections by Rabbi Rose on his time al reopening with regular weekly office CST presented Rabbi Rose with this framed with the congregation. hours and limited in-person services print by Safed-based artist David Friedman, The meeting also included the election throughout the summer. which he opened onscreen with his family. Jewish Review July 21, 2021 5 Michael Jeser receives Staff news Building services director returns to CSP Sherut L’am Award Tammy Heard has returned to Cedar Sinai Park to serve as the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion (HUC-JIR) building services director. CSP provides residential and commu- awarded Michael Jeser, a graduate of the Zelikow School of Jew- nity-based care to elders and adults with spe- ish Nonprofit Management (then School of Jewish Communal cial needs in an environment based on Jewish Service), with the Sherut L’Am Award on July 6, 2021. The Sherut values. L’Am Award recognizes exceptional service to the College-Insti- On April 12, Tammy resumed the position tute or to the Jewish People. she left 2½ years ago. As building services Jeser spent three years as director, she assures the grounds are clean and director of financial resource welcoming, the staff is taken care of and the development at the Jewish major departments are running smoothly. Federation of Greater Portland, “Tammy is the consummate person-centered leaving in 2018 to become CEO professional,” says CSP CEO Kimberly Fu- of the Jewish Federation of San son. “She serves with her whole heart. Residents, families and staff Diego County. In Portland, he trust her implicitly. Tammy is a common-sense, solution-oriented oversaw all aspects of the Fed- leader who understands that relationship is the foundation of ser- eration’s annual and supple- vice.” mental fundraising campaigns. Tammy has lived in Portland since she was 12. She previously He also created PDX Pathways, worked at CSP for about 16 years. JFGP’s flagship leadership de- “For many years, I called Cedar Sinai Park my home,” says Tam- velopment and mentoring pro- my. “An opportunity arose at Terwilliger Plaza that offered me the gram for young Jewish leaders. prospect for personal growth as well as some much-needed addi- “This is a well-deserved honor tional presence with my family. I came to know and love many Michael Jeser with wife, Laura, people and enjoyed my time there, but when I heard of the position for Michael,” says JFGP Presi- and daughter, Eleanore. dent and CEO Marc Blattner of becoming available at CSP, I knew it was my chance to come back his former colleague. He was “an exceptional Jewish professional home. The part of my career that I love the most has to be the con- and a tremendous asset to the Portland Jewish community before nection with my residents and coworkers … we work amazingly moving San Diego. The hardest part is that his health is preventing (well) as a team.” him from doing the work he loves.” Additionally, CSP interim executive assistant Angela Deverell is As a fundraiser at heart, Jeser helped to establish the Michael staying on permanently at the senior living campus. As of June 30, Jeser and Paul Jeser Scholarship Fund at the ZSchool (then SJCS) 2021, Angela is the executive assistant to CSP Chief Executive Of- in 2005. He recently created a very personal fundraiser and intro- ficer Kimberly Fuson. Her most recent work as executive assistant duced it with these words: “Nearly four years after being initially was with the global not-for-profit educational services organiza- diagnosed with esophageal cancer, I am sadly losing the insidious tion, Northwest Evaluation Association. war being waged against my body and my family. As we prepare for the inevitable, we are all focusing on my quality of life and JFGP hires marketing associate Joey Endler spending invaluable and unforgettable time together as a family. The Jewish Federation of Greater Portland has hired Joey Endler We are cuddling, hugging and holding each other a little bit tight- as the marketing associate. He will work closely with Federation er. Hugs and kisses from Laura and Eleanore are undoubtedly the staff on social media efforts. brightest part of my day.” Learn more and make a gift at gofund- Joey began his new role on July 12. me.com/f/f8p4z-embracing-the-jeser-family. During the pandemic, he worked a va- Jeser was honored for his years of dedicated service to the Jewish riety of freelance and part-time jobs that people as CEO of JFSDC, which cares for Jews in need, connects used his skills in copywriting, blogging, San Diego to Israel and strengthens Jewish identity. Past recipients marketing and social media manage- of the distinguished award include Debbie Friedman, Ilene and ment. Stanley Gold, Gideon Kaufman, Deborah Lipstadt and Lenny Thal. “I’m thrilled to have Joey start as our Jeser’s Sherut L’Am Award was presented by Marla Abraham marketing associate,” says JFGP Direc- ’85, Director, Western Region, United States Holocaust Memorial tor of Marketing and Communications Museum, in a private ceremony in the presence of Jeser’s parents Jodi Garber-Simon. “It’s so helpful to Faye and Paul, his wife Laura and his 4-year-old daughter Elea- have a team when you are engaged in a nore, who helped to explode a confetti cannon and shout mazal tov creative process, and I am really looking after Abraham presented the award. forward to having a colleague to brainstorm with and share the Erik Ludwig, Director of the Zelikow School of Jewish Nonprofit workload. Joey has experience with social media marketing, and Management, said “The Sherut L’Am Award is well-deserved rec- we look forward to putting those skills to work for Federation.” ognition of Michael’s exemplary service to the Jewish people. The Joey was born in Chicago and moved to Portland when he was professional achievements, the friendships and the quiet repair of 5. Judaism has always been an important part of his identity. He a broken world are testament to the sacred intention of Michael’s attended Jewish preschool and then Hebrew school until becom- leadership and his gift to future generations.” ing a bar mitzvah at Congregation Beth Israel. Joey spent many His career has included significant roles in and out of the national summers at B’nai B’rith Camp. He received his degree in public Federation system, serving in senior management, fundraising and relations and advertising from the University of Oregon and was a program positions with Jewish community centers, Jewish sum- leader of the AEPi Jewish fraternity on campus. mer camps and as the executive director of Hillel at the University In his free time, he enjoys watching sports, playing with his cat of Southern California for four years. and trying new craft beers. 6 Jewish Review July 21, 2021 Departing MJDS principal reflects on successes BY DEBORAH MOON MJDS-CSP scene, cementing a Maimonides Jewish Day Farewell Event July 28 strong and special relationship School Principal Rabbi Shneur Rabbi Shneur, his wife, between the two organizations.” Wilhelm leaves Portland this Chaya, and their children will “These programs would not summer to serve as vice princi- move to Las Vegas the first have flourished were it not for pal of the Desert Torah Acade- week of August. The commu- Rabbi Shneur’s vision and en- my in Las Vegas, Nev., a school nity will have the opportunity couragement to let the students with more than 250 students. to say goodbye to the family lead,” says Jemi. Karen DeNardo will take the at a gathering at 5 pm, July The past year offered fresh reins of Maimonides as princi- 28, at the school, 6612 SW challenges. When COVID pal this summer. (See related Capitol Hwy. closed schools in March 2020, story below.) Devora Wilhelm RSVP to office@portland- Maimonides pivoted quickly. will retain her title as school jewishschool.com. Within four days, the school director and serve on the tran- was providing online classes. sition team. Maimonides now serves stu- proached her about building MJDS obtained an emergen- A Portland native, Rabbi dents in kindergarten through intergenerational social oppor- cy child care license and was Shneur attended the predeces- 8th grade. During Rabbi tunities between Maimonides able to have children on the sor of MJDS as a child after Shneur’s tenure, MJDS became students and residents of CSP’s campus while parents worked. his mother Devora established the first school in the Pacific Rose Schnitzer Manor. The school also offered a wide it 36 years ago. He returned Northwest to be accredited “What started as a loosely range of extracurricular activi- to Portland seven years ago to for both its Judaic and general structured pre-Shabbat singa- ties including a weekly virtual teach at MJDS. A year later, studies programs; the school long in late 2015 became Torah art class. You can see more he became the day school’s also introduced a Montes- & Us, a focused weekly parsha highlights from the past year principal. Rabbi Shneur was sori-inspired curriculum. In study created by the older boys, at mailchi.mp/portlandjewish- approached by Desert Torah addition, Maimonides joined complete with audio and visual school/thank-you-for-a-great- Principal Rabbi Moshe Rod- the Legacy Heritage Better To- aids,” says Jemi. “The program year-2021-highlights. man about joining the school. gether Program to established continued to gain traction in The rabbi is proud of the cul- Rabbi Shneur says Rabbi multi-generational programs at 2016 and expanded to include ture that evolved during his Rodman has been his mentor Cedar Sinai Park. Tea & Torah, where some of the seven years at the school. for several years, helping Mai- Jemi Kostiner Mansfield, now female students brought home- “Our biggest achievement monides navigate the path to executive director of Congre- made baked goods to share during that time is to create a accreditation. Rabbi Shneur gation Shaarie Torah, was the with the residents over a cup culture that successfully executes will succeed him as principal CSP spiritual life director in of tea and teaching. Eventually, after a year as vice principal. 2015 when Rabbi Shneur ap- challah-making emerged on the See MJDS PRINCIPAL, page 13 Maimonides hires Principal Karen DeNardo BY DEBORAH MOON had missed “the interactions with a variety She says she was able to buy the appliances Karen DeNardo has been hired as princi- of people – not just students but the com- because for five years her school won an pal of Maimonides Jewish Day School be- munity and staff. It is such a rich career.” award (that included additional funding) as ginning with the 2021-22 school year. She So she soon found herself talking to Rabbi a school that beat the odds and racked up succeeds Rabbi Shneur Wilhelm (see relat- Shneur and his mother, Devora Wilhelm, high standardized test scores. ed story above). who is the school’s founder and director. “You have to meet the students’ needs so Karen served as a “I was drawn to be able to serve a com- they can come and be ready to learn,” says principal in Wiscon- munity so rich in support for each other,” Karen. sin for nine years says Karen. “The closeness and support I With the award funding, Karen also before moving to see between various elements of the school brought in trainers from the Comprehen- Portland in 2016 to … I love being able to add my energy to sion Toolkit series developed by Stephanie join her two daugh- that mix.” Harvey and Anne Goudvis. ters, who moved “She fits our mission of personal, mean- She says the school was able to exceed here when one ingful and empowering – she puts students expectations on standardized tests because attended Portland first,” says Devora. of the creativity her teachers wouold teach State University. When Devora called the Wisconsin dis- reading standards using social studies and For the past five years, Karen has worked trict where Karen had worked, she was science. “We double dipped on time,” she at PSU as a university supervisor mentor- impressed by the lengths Karen had gone says. ing student teachers and serving as the link to ensure the students in her low-income She expects to follow that same dou- between the university and school districts. school were ready and able to learn – in- ble-dipping approach at Maimonides. With She had connected MJDS with two teach- cluding getting a washer and dryer for the both Judaic and general curricula to cover, ers in past years and was talking to Rabbi school. “She really cares for children, and she says the school is ideally suited to use Shneur about a teacher for the coming year she understands education.” those creative tools to teach multiple skills when he told her he was also looking for Karen says she did many things to help in one lesson. someone to replace him as principal. students at the school where 98% quali- For more information, email Karen at Although Karen had not planned to seek fied for free lunch, but jokes, “everybody [email protected] or visit another position as principal, she says she always talks about the washer and dryer.” portlandjewishschool.com. Jewish Review July 21, 2021 7 HAND IN HAND (Continued from page 1) What alumni are saying “That’s what Hand in Hand told us, you don’t have to have pre- sumptuous thoughts about other people, you have to come open minded ... it always taught us to listen to other people, to other sides. ... So once going to univer- sity, this kind of allowed me to be more open.” ~ Palestinian alumnus

“I see my friends who don’t A recent graduate from the integrated Hand in Hand school in is flanked by the speak Arabic, how they hear principal and assistant principal with the school’s head teacher and his parents. The Jeru- Arabic on the street, and they im- salem Hand in Hand is one of the seven Hand in Hand schools. mediately think that it’s something like a terrorist or it comes out in Gordon cofounded Hand in Hand with and actions are the new families who join their head that it’s something bad Amin Khalaf, an Israeli Arab Muslim, in the schools each year, according to Gordon. or something that can harm them. 1997. The first integrated school opened “Every year, we add a new cohort of young And I just know that they speak with one class in Jerusalem the following children, so our foundation has stability.” about what they had for breakfast year. After living in Israel for 20 years, During the recent Hamas-Israel conflict, or how they’re going to get home Gordon returned to Portland in 1999 to riots erupted in mixed cities in Israel with today. So, everything is much launch the American Friends of Hand in “mostly young men” on both sides engaged more peaceful around me.” Hand and to be closer to his then 90-year- in violent attacks. ~ Israeli Jew old father, William (Bill) Gordon, z”l. “Our older Hand in Hand students were Hand in Hand recently completed a sur- really active in anti-violence vigils,” says “My goal is to create a move- vey of alumni ranging in age from 18 to 28 Gordon. “Our executive director was invit- ment of people who believe (see more results at https://handinhandk12. ed to speak at the Knesset.” org/alumni_evaluation_2021/). Among Gordon says Hand in Hand has far ex- in partnership and practice other findings, the survey revealed: ceeded the founders’ modest expectations. it. Change starts when we ask • Bilingualism: 89% of HIH alumni report “We were afraid to dream too big,” he hard questions of each other, and that their knowledge of the other’s lan- says. “It was such a revolutionary concept. when we dare to listen, under- guage has had a significant positive impact People said no one would send their kids to stand and hear the answers. And on their perception of the other. an integrated school.” we, the Hand in Hand graduates, • Multiculturalism: 90% feel it is easy for Now the schools are a visible part of Is- know how to create the space to them to connect with people from different raeli society. The schools are accredited make it happen.” backgrounds than their own. and receive funding from the Israel Minis- ~ Munia Masalha, class of 2012 • Social responsibility: 73% feel that their try of Education in addition to parent fees HIH education provided them the tools to and international philanthropy. “We are not naïve. We know that make a positive difference in Israeli soci- Hand in Hand students score higher peace is still far away. However, ety. on standardized tests than those at other the first step that every one of us As one alumnus from the Wadi Ara school schools and enjoy a trilingual (students also can take is to promote the reality noted, “It’s not just a theoretical discussion learn English) education with small class- of shared society or a limited experience; es. “(That) has attracted many parents who we learned as children. We can it’s living shared society every day.” (See would not have met people from the other live as good neighbors in equality more alumni quotes in box.) community,” says Gordon. and dignity, without racism or “A sizable number of our alumni are real- Gordon oversees the American Friends incitement against any group. ly engaged,” says Gordon. office in Multnomah Village with the help We succeed and continue to do Hand in Hand alumni are highly educat- of two part-time employees to raise funds this every morning in six (now ed, attending prestigious universities both and awareness of the multicultural schools. seven) schools across the country. in Israel and abroad, and are employed in a He says many of Portland’s rabbis have We learn together, live together range of fields, most predominantly educa- visited the schools and taken congregants and work together… We call this tion, nonprofit and government. One group to see them. Gordon grew up at Congre- shared society and shared living. of alumni has created a “cultural maga- gation Neveh Shalom and joined Havurah We are here today to assure all of zine” online (see photo on page 1). He says Shalom when he returned from Israel. He past segments have featured a punk band, is also a past board member of the Jewish you that this is possible.” Palestinian filmmaker and other hip cultur- Federation of Greater Portland. ~ from a speech by Hand in Hand al topics. For more information on the schools, visit graduates Fatimah Yahia and Bar Just as important as the alumni’s views handinhandk12.org. Itamari 8 Jewish Review July 21, 2021 Kesser Israel unveils expansion plans BY DEBORAH MOON sion was limited by the shul’s Congregation Kesser Israel $1 million construction budget. has unveiled plans to expand its Rabbi Brodkin said it is too 2,500-square-foot, “one room early to share a timeline for shul” into a 4,200-square-foot, construction, but he hopes to multi-use space to meet com- be able to announce a ground- munal needs in an efficient breaking date after permits and manner. final costs are obtained later “This is a big transforma- this summer. tion for the shul,” said Rabbi The June 23 community up- Kenneth Brodkin in a Zoom date on Zoom also included an presentation to congregants. update on the congregation’s “Now we’ve got a one-room 2021 Sefer Torah Campaign. shul building, and we are look- Thanks to a family coming for- ing forward to a more dynamic ward with a lead gift, a scribe building that can comfortably This architectural rendering shows the new entry for Congregation in Israel has already begun to host a lot of different aspects of Kesser Israel as seen from Capitol Highway. write the new Torah scroll. A community life at one time.” campaign later this year will The new space features a larg- ities, and a covered breezeway as well as numerous other insti- offer each member the chance er, more efficiently arranged for strollers. A new entry and tutional projects. Kesser’s plans to participate in the mitzvah of sanctuary that can be used as lobby with a raised ceiling will have been submitted to the city writing a Torah. Dedication of a social hall for larger events. welcome people into the new of Portland for permitting and the new scroll is planned for Seating in the new sanctuary space. The new construction to the contractor for a final cost Dec. 5, 2021, during Hanuk- will increase from 165 to 230 will be on the south and west estimate. kah, 20 years after Kesser’s plus. All spaces will be adapt- sides of the existing building, “It’s a beautiful plan that will current Torah was dedicated. able for multiple uses, which which will also undergo exten- meet a lot of needs,” said Rabbi The meeting also announced include a meeting room for up sive remodeling. Brodkin in a phone interview. the 4-6 pm, Aug. 14, summer to 20 people, a communal space The expanded building was “Stewart is a creative architect barbecue at Sellwood Park. for kiddush and for young fam- designed by Stewart Gordon who knows how to use every Cost is $15 adults, $10 children ilies and children to hang out Strauss, who was also the ar- inch of space.” and free for members of Kes- during services, new hallways chitect for the master plan and The site plan also leaves room ser. For more information and with shelves for siddurim, larg- several new buildings for B’nai on the property for future de- to RSVP, visit kesserisrael.org/ er kitchen and bathroom facil- B’rith Camp near Lincoln City velopment. The current expan- summerbbq. Dignity Grows off to strong start In its first public packing party, Portland’s Dig- nity Grows Chapter celebrated a bat mitzvah and packed 220 Dignity Totes. Elissa Rose Treger, who will become a bat mitzvah at Congregation Beth Israel on July 24, has chosen to support Dignity Grows by packing totes filled with personal and menstrual hygiene products for people who cannot afford them. Elissa and her mother, Candice Adelson, helped pack the totes July 11 and then delivered them to Outside In, an organization supporting youth ages 18-24 experiencing homelessness and other marginalized people. Earlier this year, Women’s Philanthropy of GAt each pack in Portland, volunteers will have a chance to learn about period poverty and the Jewish reasons for engaging in this social justice effort, and of course, pack Dignity Totes. Volunteers at the July 11 Dignity Grows packing At the July pack, Education Team member Deb- party learned about Maimonides’ eight levels of bie Plawner thanked Elissa for sharing her bat giving and then assigned a modern-day example mitzvah project with the group. Then Debbie led of giving to each level of the ladder. an exercise to teach volunteers about Maimon- Elissa Rose Treger and her ides’ ladder of tzedakah (charity). After learning May, the Portland Dignity Grows Chapter has mom, Candice Adelson, hold a about the eight levels of tzedakah, participants packed 360 Dignity Totes. sign announcing the first shift of discussed what rung they thought the volunteer The next pack will be at the Eastside Jewish the Dignity Grows packing party project best matched. Commons on Sept. 19. For more information, packed 135 Dignity Totes. Including a trial run pack for chapter leaders in visit jewishportland.org/dignitygrows. Jewish Review July 21, 2021 9 (continued from page 1) EASTSIDE JEWISH COMMONS EJC COMMUNITY PARTNERS communal professionals like for programming by Jewish or- Eleyna Fugman of TischPDX ganizations, congregations and Community partners have contributed financially and and Rabbi Josh Rose of Co/ individuals. been involved in the development of EJC; they will get Lab, to hearing kids having fun “It is a mitzvah for us (Shir preferential space usage fees and times. at BB camp, to meeting Rich Tikvah) to support what we Congregation Shir Tikvah (co-located in space) Meyer, the Challahman, when can,” says Katie. The Alberta Shul he dropped off challot, to sing- To that end, Shir Tikvah in- B’nai B’rith Camp ing Siman Tov u’Mazal Tov at vites other groups to use its Cedar Sinai Park the first bris at the Commons ... supplies in the common areas Congregation Beth Israel it’s been amazing to connect and including linens and table ser- Congregation Neveh Shalom collaborate with the Portland vice for 100 in the kitchen, its Jewish community. It’s only library in the conference room Congregation Shaarie Torah the beginning of this incredible (which can accommodate ser- Jewish Family & Child Service cross-communal venture, and I vices or classes), the ark in the Jewish Federation of Greater Portland can’t wait for what the future prayer room and a second por- Havurah Shalom holds #AttheCommons.” table ark. (Other congregations Mittleman Jewish Community Center The dream for this eastside hub need to bring their own Torah, OneTable is coming to fruition now thanks however, since Shir Tikvah ORA: NW Jewish Artists to community support from 25 stores its scroll in a safe.) Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust community partners and endors- Education ing organizations, especially the WHO IS USING EJC? Oregon NCSY Jewish Federation of Greater The Eastside Jewish Com- P’nai Or of Portland Portland and Congregation Shir mons formed as a nonprofit in Tikvah. (See below). 2017 to address the lack of east- Portland Jewish Academy “Federation has made a three- side public Jewish spaces. Portland Kollel year, $150,000 commitment to “Our vision is to expand the Tivnu enhance the operation and uti- opportunity for programs and TischPDX lization of the Eastside Jewish connection to Jewish life,” says Tree of Life Montessori Commons,” says JFGP Presi- Mia. “This is community space dent and CEO Marc Blattner. … it adds to the portfolio of ENDORSING ORGANIZATIONS Federation plans to use the Jewish infrastructure.” Oregon Board of Rabbis space for some board meetings EJC can now provide space Oregon Jewish Community Foundation and events. for communal organizations to Congregation Kesser Israel Announcing the grant at the hold programs or provide ser- Moishe House Portland JFGP Annual Meeting, Board vices (see story on next page Chair Lauren Goldstein said, about EJC’s many rooms and cited to be working in a space tion, it’s close to where a lot of “We are excited about this new spaces). In addition, individu- with other Jewish communal people live,” says Eleyna. “It’s Jewish community space on als can rent the spacious atrium professionals. very welcoming – the design, the east side of town and look for one-off events such as par- “I’m signed up for one of the airiness and the big open- forward to many programs and ties or b’nai mitzvahs. Jewish the cubicles,” says Eley- ness kind of has this feeling of services being provided there.” professionals can rent office na Fugman, cofounder of connectivity.” Shir Tikvah is covering the cubicles. TischPDX, a leadership incu- “Our fellows are excited majority of the rent for the first One professional who is rent- bator for Jews who have been about hosting events there,” year in recognition “that they ing a cubicle is Abbie Barash, historically marginalized in says Eleyna. “I can picture us (EJC) are a new organization Cascadia field manager and Jewish communal life. “We’re having late-evening events with no existing infrastructure national fellowship coordinator definitely excited for that. It’s and salons and conversations and (we) are happy to make for OneTable, which promotes perfect for me just in terms and maybe musical events. I it possible for them to build Shabbat and holiday dinners of being able to connect with think younger adults are always and grow,” says Shir Tikvah for and by young adults. She other community members and looking for spots to congregate, Administrative Director Katie is also eager to invite hosts and other communal professionals and it’s exciting to have a place Schneider. EJC will pay an in- guests who want to learn about on the eastside.” that feels so accessible … (with creasing percentage of rent in OneTable to visit the space. A In addition to the networking a) multi-generational level. … subsequent years of the five- centralized location will hrlp opportunities of working at the We’re all excited intergener- year lease. build relationships. Noting a EJC, Eleyna also expects the ationally; it doesn’t feel like After 18 years renting space lot of young adults live on the six members of Tisch’s third space that is owned by one age in multiple locations on the eastside, she says she can envi- leadership cohort, all of whom demographic. eastside, Congregation Shir sion hosts using the space for live on the eastside, to use the Congregations and agencies Tikvah wanted more capacity pre-Shabbat or weekday happy space to host some of the pro- with their own buildings on to offer services and program- hours, or holding challah bak- grams they plan. the west side also plan to hold ming. The congregation invit- ing classes in the kitchen. “It seems like a good spot – programs and offer services at ed EJC to partner in the space. As a professional for a nation- people have felt really excited the EJC. The majority of the building is al organization with no local about the accessibility of it. multi-use communal space open coworkers, Abbie also is ex- It’s easy for public transporta- Continued on next page 10 Jewish Review July 21, 2021 Left: EJC Chair Mia Birk, left, and Executive Director Cara Abrams inside the Eastside Jewish Commons. Right: Shir Tikvah’s Katie Schneider, Rabbi Ariel Stone, Amelia Schroth and Ra- chel Walkinshaw in the EJC prayer space. Another room with portable ark allows for con- current services. EJC: Continued from previous page Spaces at the Commons “I believe we’ll be partnering with EJC in Chair Mia Birk describes the new East- the atrium, is being upgraded with new many ways,” says Congregation Neveh Shalom side Jewish Commons as “a blank slate” appliances and stainless steel counters Education Director Mel Berwin. “One concrete of space for the community. for easy kashering. Though not kosher, plan: has a new Hebrew tutoring The 13,000 square feet of space was it will be a dairy kitchen. It will not be program for our K-6th grades, and we are of- originally an indoor car dealership, and a full commercial kitchen, but it will fering tutoring at CNS, at the EJC and online the former display room is now an open have plenty of space and a refrigerator as options for these families. We know that the atrium flooded with natural light. Last and stove for catered events or cooking eastside community has long wanted space and used as co-working space, the building classes. access to community without crossing a bridge, also features a variety of office spaces, A large conference/meeting room faces and we’re excited to partner with EJC to bring large meeting rooms, hidden nooks and east and could be used as a prayer room. CNS programming to the eastside, as well as to an open kitchen. It also houses Shir Tivkah’s library of partner with the greater Jewish community on The entry to 2420 NE Sandy Blvd. is Talmud and other Judaica “for communi- programs and events.” a secure vestibule. To one side are the ty use, to be used with respect,” says Shir Jewish Family & Child Service is exploring dedicated offices of leaseholder Congre- Tikvah Administrative Director Katie many options for the new space. gation Shir Tikvah. The other side opens Schneider. Technology to permit hybrid “We are looking at a satellite office,” says into the central atrium. meetings is also being planned. JFCS Executive Director Ruth Scott, saying the “The big atrium – everyone who goes The final two rooms on the main floor agency is considering a test in the fall with sev- in there gets excited about how we could will eventually be combined into one eral options for services. Possible services in- have a big community event here,” says larger room with a movable divider. One clude a counseling office, events and meetings, Eleyna Fugman of TischPDX. is a dedicated prayer space with Shir and possibly disability services. “As we come All of the rooms on the main floor will Tikvah’s ark. The other could be used for out of COVID, if some people are left behind, be multipurpose rooms, but they will study sessions. we may have an emergency office needs, too.” have themes that reflect the rooms’ re- A mezzanine overlooks the atrium with “We like the space, and it is an important lo- sources. several rooms opening off a balcony cation for reaching out to the community,” says The Art Room will feature spaces and that has a beautiful art display case. One Ruth. materials for creative work by adult artists room is the EJC executive director’s of- Mittleman Jewish Community Center is also and art classes or activities for children. fice. A second office is also available. A exploring options for eastside programming. The Lounge/Rec Room featuring com- large multipurpose room could be used “It’s great to have Jewish space on the east- fortable furniture and game tables could for yoga, dance or music classes. The side where we can offer programs, and we look be used as a teen lounge or youth group largest room features eight cubicles for forward to doing it,” says MJCC Executive Di- meeting room. co-working space. Jewish professionals rector Steve Albert. A Child Care Room could be used for can rent a cubicle full time, half time or JFGP’s new Dignity Grows program to pro- drop-in child care during events, host quarter time. Two small rooms are avail- vide monthly hygiene supplies to those in need activities for small children or provide able for the use by those in the co-work- plans to hold its next Packing Party at the EJC counselors from Jewish Family & Child ing cubicles for private meetings or calls. Sept. 19. Service a friendly space to meet with Lockers are available for organizations ORA: Northwest Jewish Artists is consider- young clients. to store items. ing hosting a Chanukah Art Show at the EJC. An adjoining office could be sound- Mia urges organizations interested in On the performing arts side, several musicians proofed for counseling sessions or other hosting events this fall to contact EJC have expressed interest in hosting musical eve- confidential meetings. now. Some cubicles are still available, so nings or teaching classes. Another room on the main floor could contact the EJC for more information on Many other partner organizations are also ex- be used as a tutoring space or meeting the co-working space. ploring how they will use this new space. room. And a small space is available for Use the contact form on the EJC web- Learn more or sign up to get more information private phone or Zoom calls. site, ejcpdx.org/contact, or email info@ about EJC: ejcpdx.org The kitchen, which sits at the back of ejcpdx.org. Jewish Review July 21, 2021 11 Chaplain's Corner Necessity of post-COVID community BY RABBI BARRY COHEN In a place where there are no This year, one of the rabbis Published biweekly by who officiated at my bar mitz- mensches, try to be a mensch. Jewish Federation of vah retired. He wrote a personal note on the prayer book that I (Pirkei Avot 2:5) Greater Portland used almost 40 years ago: “The 9900 SW Greenburg Road, world is yours if you want it, view them with anger and hate. thirsty for communal interac- Suite 220 but always remember having Goodman notes that the anti- tions. The greater Portland area, Tigard, OR 97223 the world is second to having a dote to both tribalism and lone- cities and towns throughout Or- 503-245-6219 good life with true friends and liness is developing communi- egon, and southwest Washing- JewishPortland.org loving family. Treat them as ties. Judaism at its best creates ton have a rich array of Jewish you wish to be treated and you communities. In addition, what community organizations. binds communities is common Let’s encourage our family Editor will have it all and always re- member Hillel said, ‘In a place ritual. and friends to connect with Deborah Moon But herein lies a problem. Too synagogues; volunteer at Jew- [email protected] where there are no mensches, try to be a mensch.’ ” (Pirkei many of us either never learned ish Family and Child Services 503-892-7404 (message) Avot 2:5) Jewish rituals or currently find and through the Jewish Feder- One is a mensch when one is rituals to be no longer relevant. ation of Greater Portland; take Circulation humane, when one treats others In addition, nearly a year and advantage of the Mittleman To receive the Jewish with a sense of dignity, com- a half of COVID restrictions Jewish Community Center; dis- Review in your email inbox, passion and humanity. made the practice of communi- cover what is happening with email your name and email Based on incident after in- ty-binding ritual difficult if not the Eastside Jewish Commons; address to cident, now that COVID re- impossible. We can respond to and explore other organizations [email protected] strictions have been lifted, we this challenge by rethinking the – all of which can be found in seem to have lost a sense of our meaning and purpose of ritual, the community directory on the OPINIONS printed in the humanity. Too many of us are by reinventing them or even de- Federation website jewishport- Jewish Review do not acting out and expressing anger veloping brand new rituals. land.org/community-directory. necessarily reflect those and frustration at the expense In response, Hurwitz offered Together, we can socialize, of the Jewish Review of servers at restaurants, clerks some humbling constructive study and make new friend- criticism: “To be totally hon- ships. We can rediscover what Committee, the Jewish in retail stores and flight atten- est here, the vast majority of rituals bind us and take part in Federation of Greater dants at 30,000 feet. We even see adults – primarily whites American Jews know very little the creation of new rituals that Portland, its governing about Judaism.” are appropriate for changing board or the staffs of either – lashing out at children, target- ing Black, Asian or Hispanic This makes the rethinking of times. We can enjoy the amaz- the newspaper or the youth. ritual a challenge and the devel- ing experience of creating or Federation. Apparently, the COVID pan- opment of new ritual a daunt- recreating community. demic has made mensches an ing task. Hurwitz adds that the The result? We will redis- all-too-precious commodity. inroads we have made to be cover and recultivate our inner Upcoming I gained further insight with accepted in American society mensch. the article, “Judaism in the have made it harder to remain a issues COVID era: What will be lost, distinct and unique people. gained and changed.” (Jewish She writes, “We all have Issue date Deadline Telegraphic Agency, 7-9-2021) friends who are not Jewish. We It featured Dr. Micah Good- have lots and lots of choices as Aug. 4 July 29 man, research fellow at the to where we can find communi- Shalom Hartman Institute in ty. So, if people … don’t know why (Judaism is) transforma- Aug. 18 Aug. 12 Jerusalem, and Sarah Hurwitz, President Barack Obama’s for- tive and meaningful, if they’re mer speechwriter. not in love with it, I think they Sept. 1 Aug. 26 Goodman noted that over the will go elsewhere for commu- past decade, what has stripped nity.” Sept. 15 Sept. 9 away our sense of humanity is The time is now to make our our loneliness and our sense Jewish communities attrac- of tribalism. Having separated tive, engaging, relevant and Submit news, photos into tribes, we see outsiders meaningful. Based on my face- and obituaries by the not merely as “wrong” but as to-face experiences now that Rabbi Barry Cohen is the “dangerous and threatening.” COVID restrictions are disap- Jewish community chaplain of issue deadline to Our kneejerk reaction is to pearing, I find that people are the Greater Portland area. [email protected] 12 Jewish Review July 21, 2021 Violence shows it is time for compromise BY MARC N. BLATTNER revamped egalitarian prayer plaza at the holy site. The Jewish Federation of Greater This past Saturday night, at the start of Tisha What is Tisha B’Av? Portland has long supported the develop- b’Av, several hundred hard-line, religious- Tisha B’Av, or the 9th of Av, this Zionist activists descended on the year began Saturday evening July ment of the space. egalitarian section of the Kotel (Western 17. Tisha B'Av is a day commem- We strongly condemn the outrageous dis- Wall) disturbing the services of a Masorti orating many tragic events in the ruption of prayer services at the Kotel by (Conservative) group. history of the Jewish people, espe- these extremists on Tisha b’Av – the day Worshipers were reading from the Book cially the destruction of the First and our tradition holds the Temple was de- of Lamentations when the activists, most- Second Temples in Jerusalem in 586 stroyed because of baseless hatred between ly teenagers, entered the site, cursing and B.C.E. and 70 C.E. Jews. screaming at the worshipers before install- These events are considered an We also urge the new governing coalition ing a mechitzah, a partition to segregate the opportunity to reflect and transform to live up to its promise to restore the care- area by gender, in opposition to the custom ourselves and to think about how to fully negotiated Western Wall agreement, of the egalitarian section. elevate ourselves and our world. abandoned four years ago, that ensures fair The targeting of non-Orthodox Jews access to the Kotel for Jews of every de- demonstrates how critical it is to imple- pressure from his ultra-Orthodox coalition nomination. It is a place where every Jew ment, with no further delay, the Western partners, who refused any move that could must feel at home. Wall compromise, which was approved in be seen as legitimizing pluralistic Judaism. January 2016, yet frozen in 2017 by then- The compromise provides the Marc N. Blattner is president and CEO of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu due to non-Orthodox movements with a new and the Jewish Federation of Greater Portland.

This illustration shows Natan Sharansky’s proposal, which will expand the Western Wall and create a permanent egalitarian space in the Robinson’s Arch area. Photo credit: Creative Commons/Graphics by Uri Fintzy/JTA. MJDS PRINCIPAL (continued from page 7) the school’s mission of being a at the school a pleasure. places on our work.” study of Tanya, participant Mark personal, meaningful and em- “Rabbi Shneur’s sincere and Rabbi Shneur also has led a Berkowitz commented, “Learn- powering Jewish day school,” genuine appreciation for the weekly “Kabbalah of the Soul” ing Tanya with Rabbi Shneur says Rabbi Shneur. time volunteers contribute to class since 2015. For the first was such an incredible founda- “We adopted a social-emo- Maimonides School is palpa- four years, the class studied The tional growth experience… The tional curriculum (based on ble,” says Basha. “From the Tanya, shifting from in-person rabbi broke it down into bite- Thinking, Feeling, Behaving by moment the volunteer comes to Zoom after COVID hit. After sized pieces so we would not be Dr. Ann Vernon),” he adds. “We through the doors and is greet- the in-depth study of the Tanya overwhelmed and taught in lay- had volunteers in the school ev- ed with his cheerful ‘Hello’ and concluded Nov. 16, 2020, the man’s terms so we could grasp ery day for a lot of one-on-one warm smile, to the moment in class began a study of Gate of the depth and breadth of Tanya’s instruction.” the day when we are asked if Trust. The class is posted online concepts and ideas.” One of those volunteers, Ba- there’s anything he can do for on Soundcloud (soundcloud. Rabbi Shneur says he hopes sha Necha Rothstein, says Rab- us, we are constantly assured of com/kabbalah-of-the-soul). to continue the class after he bi Shneur makes volunteering the utmost value and honor he When the class finished its settles into his Las Vegas post. Jewish Review July 21, 2021 13 Jobs board Life-cycle events TIVNU: BUILDING JUSTICE BIRTH Operations and Outreach Coordinator CHARLIE SHEM TOV ROHR Full time, including some evenings and weekends. Charlie Shem Tov Rohr was Compensation: $38,000-$54,000, individual medical and dental born July 1, 2021, to Brian and insurance paid by Tivnu, five weeks’ vacation/personal days, and Sarah Rohr of Portland. He was most Jewish and U.S. holidays. welcomed home by older broth- Tivnu: Building Justice is looking for a detail-oriented, dynamic er Gabriel. go-getter who will ensure the smooth operations of all programs Everyone is healthy, happy, and promote and recruit for our core program, the Tivnu Gap Year. and full of love. In addition As the operations coordinator, you will ensure that Tivnu’s day-to- to being members of Congre- day logistics run smoothly: managing our digital and physical re- gation Neveh Shalom, Brian sources, including CRM, social media, the Tivnu houses, etc. You is Neveh Shalom’s communi- will oversee and implement the Tivnu Gap Year recruitment plan, cations coordinator, and both as well. You will build relationships through strategic outreach Brian and Sarah teach in Neveh efforts to potential participants, alumni, connectors and relevant Shalom’s ALIYAH program. networks throughout the United States. Charlie was welcomed for- See full description at tivnu.org/careers/ mally into the community at Email resume and cover letter to both Steve Eisenbach-Budner Neveh Shalom on July 8. at [email protected] and Adinah Miller at [email protected] with subject line “Operations and Outreach Coordinator.” PJ LIBRARY Obituaries Two parent ambassadors (one east side, one west side) Part time: $20/hour (12 hours per month) CHARLOTTE BLUMSTEIN POSITION ENDS 6/30/2022 (extension dependent on funding) Charlotte Blumstein, z”l, passed away July 11, 2021, at age 102. Help create experiences and connect with young families across Charlotte is survived by sons, Steven Blumstein (Arlene Postal) the Greater Portland area. and David Blumstein. She was preceded in death by husbands, “This very part-time position is perfect for stay-at-home moms,” Milton Blumstein and Bernie Cohen, and son, Leonard Blum- says Rachel Nelson, Director of Educational Initiatives & Inter- stein. Charlotte was a grandmother of nine including Portlanders group Outreach at the Jewish Federation of Greater Portland, who Liza (Beth) Milliner, Melissa (Oren) Abu and Scott Bloom; and a will oversee the ambassadors. “As we are coming out of COVID, great-grandmother of 10. people are desperate for connections, and we want to engage Jew- The funeral and shiva took place in Florida. ish families with each other in authentic relationships.” Congregation Neveh Shalom extends our deepest condolences to Each ambassador will build authentic relationships, create new, the extended Milliner, Abu and Blumstein families. barrier-free Jewish experiences, expand communities, and impart HAZZAN SAMUEL NECHEMIA relevant Jewish content to Jewish families with children ages 1 to Hazzan Samuel Nechemia, z”l, passed on July 6, 2021, the 26th 3 years old. The Parent Ambassadors will develop and implement of Tammuz. Sam is survived small-scale outreach and engagement programming, connecting by his niece, Nurit Gamal of families to one another and the Jewish community of Greater Port- , and very many land. This programming will begin at the very earliest stages of devoted friends in Sephardic a child’s life in public, secular spaces and will maximize social Portland. connections over time among these families. Sam served as the loyal haz- For more information, check out the job posting online or contact zan (prayer leader, cantor) for Rachel at 503-892-7415 or [email protected]. more than 30 years to Port- land’s original Sephardic syn- CEDAR SINAI PARK agogue, Congregation Ahavath Multiple positions Achim. Competitive pay, comprehensive health insurance benefits, and He was born in December of paid time off with separate vacation, sick and holiday pay. 1943 in Jerusalem, Israel, the Available positions include accounts payable coordinator, certi- son of Kurdish immigrants. He fied nursing assistant, cook, housekeeper, licensed practical nurse, also helped found and served medication tech/resident assistant, payroll specialist, registered as hazzan for the Sephardic nurse, resident care manager, server and Sinai In-Home caregiver. community of Vancouver, Brit- These are great opportunities for energetic, outgoing and com- ish Columbia. His hauntingly pelling people with a passion for elder care and the mission of beautiful Sephardic cantorials Cedar Sinai Park. CSP is a nonprofit, community-based, residential combined with his culinary ex- senior living, skilled nursing and long-term care organization with pertise in the preparation and presentation of Middle Eastern foods a dedicated workforce. made him a local catering favorite at weddings, bar mitzvahs and Free parking and free meal on each shift worked. Benefits include many other life-cycle events. Memories of his beautiful voice and low-cost health insurance with low/high deductible options; free cherished friendships with so many in Portland’s greater Jewish dental, long-term disability and life insurance; flexible spending community will be remembered always. As Sam so often said, accounts; and 403(b) retirement with matching contribution. “We do not bid farewell but l’hitraot (see you later).” Check out available positions and apply at cedarsinaipark.org/ Ahavath Achim gathered a minyan for funeral services at the careers-in-healthcare/ Kesser Cemetery on July 7. 14 Jewish Review July 21, 2021