COVID Vaccine Offers Hope on CSP Campus by DEBORAH MOON County

Jewish Disability Advocacy Month — page 4 Trash, trees & Tu B'Shevat — page 10 50th anniversary — page 14 Jan. 20, 2021 / Shevat 7, 5781 Volume 56, Issue 3 COVID vaccine offers hope on CSP campus BY DEBORAH MOON county. But, she says, staff and residents are “Happy, glad and On Dec. 29, 114 people on absolutely hopeful.” the Cedar Sinai Park campus Mattox says that only those received their first dose of the with autoimmune issues who Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. are not recommended to receive Those receiving vaccines in- the vaccine declined it. In addi- cluded 65 CSP staff and 49 res- tion, a few residents could not idents in the four households of be vaccinated at the first clinic the Harold Schnitzer Center for because of the short timeline. Living and post-acute care pa- The pharmacy that contracts tients in Robison Jewish Health with Robison for services, Center. They received their sec- Consonus Pharmacy, told CSP ond dose Jan. 19. on Dec. 22 that a clinic could “It was like crossing a threshold be scheduled Dec. 29. Doses of having hope that things could must be administered within six get to a normal state,” says Robi- hours of being removed from son Administrator Krista Mattox. low temperature and mixed. “There is light,” is how CSP Mattox says that gave the CEO Kimberly Fuson describes facility one day to educate the new atmosphere. She adds residents on their decision so that even with the vaccine, in- they could provide consent in door family visits won’t resume time to schedule the first dose. immediately; those are depen- Tawny Souza (Director of Rehabilitation) was the first person at dent on metrics in the state and See VACCINE, page 6 Cedar Sinai Park to get a COVID-19 vaccine. Community support arises in wake of vandalism BY DEBORAH MOON Kitchen and Cocktails in Sa- Jones says stickers clearly the No Place for Hate sign in The convergence of the eco- lem. He adds that President identifiable as related to the his restaurant window was nomic and health crises caused Trump’s support of white su- Patriot Front were posted in spray-painted over. On New by COVID and the rise of ex- premacists makes “them feel the area around his restaurant Year’s Day, a crowd that in- tremism have pummeled local it’s OK.” Dec. 20. Earlier in the fall, cluded Proud Boys gathered restaurants and small business- at the state Capitol to protest es this year. In response, a Shop COVID restrictions. Far-right Local movement seeks to keep marchers from that gathering those businesses viable (see clashed with a group protecting box, page 3). his restaurant entrance. Jones Recent vandalism at three said he recognized a man in the Middle Eastern/Israeli-style crowd who had threatened him restaurants in Portland and a over the past few months. Black-owned restaurant in Sa- For businesses perceived as lem have exacerbated the hard- being connected to the Jewish ship for the eateries. community, threats come from “Generally, as the social jus- both far-right Neo-Nazi groups tice movement has risen, the and the far-left Boycott, Divest, pushback from hate groups has Sanction movement that targets been stronger,” says Jonathon Graffiti at Portland restaurants included these messages plus "Free Israel. Jones, who owns Epilogue Palestine," "Falafel is from Palestine," "Eat anywhere else" and others. See VANDALISM, page 3 OJMCHE fortifies Teach & Learn resources BY DEBORAH MOON The pandemic has made many aspects of education more difficult this past year. But it gave Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education staff precious time to develop online resources to support Holocaust and genocide education, which Senate Bill 664 mandated to begin with the 2020-21 school year. Though the mandated education was set to launch last fall, “There is not the expectation to fulfill all learning standards during remote teaching,” says OJMCHE Director of Educa- tion Amanda Coven. “There OJMCHE has made one of its core permanent exhibits, “Discrimination and Resistance, An Oregon is a realization that emotional Primer,” available as a digital experience for schools around the state. support and well-being is a priority and with the combina- cessible to any educator, but es- tion, the digital experience pro- lessons they can share with tion of reduced class time and pecially those who never would vides students the opportunity students who want to enter the lessons just taking longer to have had the opportunity to to interact with the exhibition’s 2021 Jakob and Sala Kryszek do virtually, it’s impossible to visit the museum or memorial content in an engaging format. Art and Writing Competition. meet all learning standards.” with their students.” The museum is also creating On Jan. 27, educators can That delay in implementation The site features a virtual tour a digital experience of “The learn about and examine 40 of combined with the museum be- of the Oregon Holocaust Me- Holocaust, An Oregon Perspec- the more than 400 anti-Jewish ing closed during the pandemic morial in Washington Park, so tive,” which should be available decrees and regulations during has given OJMCHE time to de- teachers can now visit the me- later this year. the Holocaust and discuss how velop a robust Teach & Learn morial with their students from In the past week, four schools the legal system can perpetuate section on the museum’s website anywhere. The virtual tour can have requested the Discrimi- or prevent discrimination, perse- (ojmche.org). The website in- be engaged with as a class or nation and Resistance Digital cution and genocide. cludes resources and curriculum. explored independently. A free Experience, virtual tours of the This year’s prompt for the Writ- “I’d definitely say there is a teacher’s guide includes an- Oregon Holocaust Memorial, ing and Art Contest asks students silver lining to all of this,” says ticipatory questions, a graphic or virtual classroom visits in to reflect on Holocaust history Amanda. “If we had been open organizer for students, a class- which Amanda facilitates a les- and create a piece of writing or and facilitating tours, the edu- room discussion guide, and ex- son with students. work of visual art that considers cation department would not tension resources and lessons. Amanda says the pandemic’s the role that laws played in the have had the time to create the In addition, the museum’s core closure of the museum’s discrimination against and per- resources we just released and permanent exhibit, “Discrimi- indoor physical space “has secution and genocide of Jewish will continue to. The pandemic nation and Resistance, An Ore- given us the ability to expand people, and the importance of has provided us the opportunity gon Primer,” is now available as our outreach in meaningful civic responsibility and engage- to develop some really great a digital experience. Designed ways. I’m always delightfully ment. The competition is open materials and experiences ac- to mirror the physical exhibi- surprised when I see educators to middle and high school stu- registering for our professional dents. The submission deadline What OJMCHE means to educators: developments that work outside is March 19. Nathalia Parra, Portland Adventist Academy: OJMCHE of the Portland Metro area. “We adapted the contest means hope to me. Hope that our students will begin to be Fortunately, this seems to be last year due to COVID-19 taught in a more inclusive and honest way, that our bias and happening more and more!” and have done the same this comfortable views on the world can begin to shift in ourselves “We’ve done really well with year,” says Amanda. “We’re to then empower our students correctly. relevant professional develop- requesting entries be submitted John Cornet, Phoenix High School: We today see precondi- ment, so we’re going to con- digitally, but in the event that tions that could lead to genocidal thinking emerging around the tinue to offer those on a more technology is not available, stu- world … the museum shines a spotlight on that spread of intol- frequent and continuous basis,” dents can mail their work to the erance, allowing people to see where dangers may lurk rather says Amanda. “Many of the pro- museum.” than remaining blind to or subconsciously conforming to them. fessional developments in Feb- For details, visit ojmche.org/ Kassie Evans Halpin, Edison High School: The center is ruary-May are not posted yet.” teach-learn/sala-kryszek- able to address all aspects of prejudice, discrimination and fear One upcoming professional art-writing-competition/. due to age, disability, ethnicity, origin, political belief, race, reli- development workshop, Law OJMCHE will also host its first gion, sex or gender, sexual orientation, language, culture, abili- and (Dis)Order: Legalizing summer educator workshop and ties, neurodiversity and other individual factors. This education Discrimination and Civic Re- a series on human rights and is vital to acceptance of diversity. sponsibility, will give teachers justice in the classroom. 2 Jewish Review Jan. 20, 2021 (from page 1) Shop Local/Eat Local VANDALISM The Jewish Community Relations Council, as part of the United Aviv and two locations of not tolerate messages of hate in Spirit coalition, recently met with Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler Shalom Y’all were vandalized or racism in any form.” to discuss ways the coalition’s faith-based and civic groups can with “Free Palestine” graffiti The Portland Police Bureau support the city. His message was quite simple and clear – shop Jan. 10-11. Both restaurants is investigating the incidents locally! The following organizations and websites provide infor- serve hummus, falafel and oth- as hate crimes and has also mation about small, local businesses that offer online options and er Middle Eastern foods often been in contact with the Port- in-store pickup, or local-owned restaurants offering takeout. associated with Israel but have land FBI office, reports Re- Portland Business Alliance/Downtown Portland removed "Israeli" from their gional Security Director Gene Clean & Safe: downtownportland.org/were%20open signs in recent months. Moss. Two of the locations Travel Portland: travelportland.com/attractions/shop-local/ Two days after Aviv’s recent had video of the two suspects, PDX SOS: pdxsos.com move to its new location in who appear to be female and Mercatus/Buy Native: the Pearl (100 NW 10th Ave.), are dressed in all dark cloth- builtoregon.shop/collections/my-peoples-market the graffiti was spray-painted ing with their faces covered. Shop Small PDX (Prosper’s campaign): shopsmallpdx.com on the restaurant. Aviv offers Moss urges people to report vegan Middle Eastern fare anti-Semitic incidents on the including its vegan shawarma new security page he has de- History of LGBTQ+ hate Jan. 21 fries, which have been popu- veloped on the JFGP website: In this time of national and local reckoning with our country and lar since they were introduced jewishportland.org/security. city’s grim legacy of discrimination and hate, a broad coalition of at the food cart that grew into In Portland and Salem, friends and allies have created a series of public programs to confront Aviv. restaurant owners expressed hate. In 2020, chef Kasey Mills, hope. On Jan. 21 at 7 pm, join the local Jewish and LGBTQ+ communities Jamal Hassan and Laura “We are so thankful for on Zoom for “Uncovering the Hidden History of Anti-LGBTQ+ Dis- Amans set out to create the the outpouring of support crimination in Oregon” presented by PrideNW and GLAPN. Sesame Collective restaurant we have received from the Launched by the Jewish Federation of Greater Portland, Confront- group. Sesame Collective community over the last 24 ing Hate is an effort by a coalition of minority and faith groups. We restaurants include Mediter- hours,” continues the Shalom are hosting “monthly” webinars representing people who have his- ranean Exploration Company, Y’all statement. “We encour- torically – and continually – been the targets of discrimination and Shalom Y’all, Yalla and Bless age you to help us in sup- hatred in Oregon. These webinars are presented by a broad group of Your Heart Burgers. porting the Oregon Coalition organizations and speakers in our greater Portland community. This “On Sunday, Jan. 10, Ses- Against Hate Crime.” will culminate in a half-day virtual summit on May 26 on Confront- ame Collective restaurants Jones says the Salem coming Hate, which will explore current issues around systemic racism, Shalom Y’all Eastside (117 munity is likewise rallying the mainstreaming of anti-Semitism and related topics. SE Taylor) and Westside to support minority-owned We have been reminded almost daily that our communities of color, (1128 SW Alder) were van- businesses. immigrants and LGBTQ persons, as well as many of our neighbors dalized with graffiti,” reads “A lot of the community is of various religious faiths, are frequent targets of vicious hatred. a statement released by the saying ‘enough is enough,’ ” Nevertheless, we have also seen seeds of hope. We have witnessed company. “We are incredibly says Jones. “I feel hopeful an upsurge of people ready to stand in solidarity with those who are disheartened by these actions. of where it is going – people targets of discrimination and hate – people who are eager to listen, to We are committed to operat- are becoming aware it is a learn and to take action to make Portland a place that truly protects ing inclusive spaces, and do problem.” the lives, well-being and dignity of all who live here. Register at: jewishportland.org/uncovering-the- hidden-history-of-anti-lgbtq-discrimination-in-oregon Jews of Color survey announced The Jews of Color Initia- experiences of JoC to raise JCRC supports Muslim community in letter tive, a nonprofit founded awareness, shape pedagogy, This letter was written after consultation with the JCRC leadership in response to U.S.-based inform policy and contribute and partners in the Muslim community. racism in and outside of the to strategic action. Dear Board of Clackamas County Commissioners, Jewish community, has com- “Jews of Color” might re- On behalf of the Jewish Federation of Greater Portland, the cen- missioned a major research fer to Jews who identify as tral philanthropic and advocacy body of the local organized Jewish study to understand the lived Black and/or African Ameri- community, I am writing to express our profound dismay and alarm experiences and perspectives can, Native American, Asian over the Islamophobic, xenophobic and racist remarks newly elected of Jews of Color nationwide. American, Pacific Islander Commissioner Mark Shull has posted on Facebook over the last year This survey is an opportu- American, Latin(x) and/or and a half (see story on Oregon Live). His statements denigrating nity for JoC to share how we Multiracial American. Some Muslims, immigrants and others are appalling; any individual who think about Jewish identity, Sephardim (Jews of Spanish holds such racist beliefs is simply not fit to serve in any public office. how systemic racism has or Portuguese descent) and We therefore call on Mr. Shull to issue a public apology and make an shaped our experiences, how Mizrahim (Jews of Middle earnest effort to engage with the Muslim community (through orga- we want the Jewish commu- Eastern or African descent) nizations such as the Muslim Educational Trust) or otherwise submit nity to better reflect the diver- self-identify as Jews of Color, his immediate resignation. sity of U.S. Jews and more. as well. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions. The study, which is housed For more information and to Sincerely, Bob Horenstein at Stanford University, is de- participate in the survey, visit Director of Community Relations and Public Affairs signed to draw on the lived JoCsurvey.org. Jewish Federation of Greater Portland Jewish Review Jan. 20, 2021 3 February is Jewish Disability Advocacy Month BY DEBORAH MOON Jewish Disability Advocacy Month 2021 kicks off at 7 pm, Feb. 3, with “Our Time, Former Jewish Our Fight,” featuring world-renowned vi- Review Photographer olinist Itzhak Perlman. The monthlong se- Bonnie/Basha ries of virtual programs will feature a wide Rothstein Brewer took variety of opportunities for empowerment, this photograph of education and advocacy. violin virtuoso Itzhak Jewish Federations of North America is Perlman performing bringing together partners from across the with the Oregon continent “to harness our collective power Symphony circa 1993. to break down barriers to opportunity and This year, Jewish Disability Advocacy inclusion. Join us in helping advance poli- Month 2021 kicks cy that empowers individuals with disabil- off a month of virtual ities to achieve maximum independence.” programs with a Following three weeks of virtual educa- program featuring a tional and community-building experience, conversation with the the month culminates in a week of action famed violinist, who and advocacy. The official hashtag for the overcame struggles month is #JDAM. as a polio survivor Each week in February will feature pro- and Jewish émigré. grams centered around a theme: Week 1: Empowerment; Week 2: Breaking Barriers; Week 3: Creating Opportunity; and Week 4: Disability Rights are Civil Rights: Advoca- Corrine Spiegel, who led TASK for its first cy Week. To learn about the programs and 18 years. LOCAL RESOURCE to register, go to jewishtogether.org/jdam. “JFCS is dedicated to supporting the TASK helps individuals with dis- The Jewish Federation of Greater Port- disabled community, and we will soon be abilities and their families by: land and Jewish Family & Child Service expanding our services to better include • Providing family and individual are promoting the month on their social children and families,” says JFCS Execu- consultations on disabilities and media feeds. tive Director Ruth Scott. available resources Portland has a long history of promoting This month, TASK launched a support • Hosting trainings on critical topics inclusion of people with disabilities. In group for parents who have children and – child development, communi- adults with disabilities. The second virtual 1997, a group of parents and communi- cation, guardianship, conserva- ty members gathered to discuss the lack meeting will be 7:30 pm, Jan. 27. To re- torship, job support, government of support and Jewish opportunities for ceive a link for the group, email Janet to children with learning, developmental or register at [email protected]. benefits and teaching children with physical differences. The next year, JFGP “Often friends and family feel uncomfort- special needs provided a grant to create TASK, the dis- able dealing with people who have special • Assisting youth, adults and their abilities awareness program of JFCS. needs,” says Janet. “There are lots of peo- families in planning for transitions Treasuring, Accepting, Supporting Kehil- ple in the community with disabilities, and • Engaging adults in our popular la (community) has shifted from aiding they want to be treated as anybody else is social-recreational group (Tikvah) families of children with special needs to treated.” • Teaching people with disabilities supporting individuals of all ages and fam- Despite TASK’s long history in Portland, how to advocate for themselves ilies coping with disabilities, and raising Janet says people with disabilities often • Offering an array of community feel “swept under the rug.” She notes awareness of and inclusion of people with information and referrals as the disabilities. TASK was instrumental in the adults with disabilities can have a hard co-founder of the Interfaith Disabili- 2013 creation of Kehillah Housing, apart- time finding jobs. During the pandemic, ments for adults with special needs. the feeling of isolation has increased. And ties Network of Oregon. Janet Menashe became TASK inclusion children with special needs are struggling jfcs-portland.org/ specialist in 2016 after the retirement of with online school. services/disability-support-services

Series helps parents find balance Last summer and fall, the Jewish Federation of Greater Portland, year. The program will also explore the mental health impacts for Jewish Family & Child Services and PJ Library Portland offered a our students and families. series of virtual conversations to help parents make informed deci- The program will feature Jessica Swindle, principal, Metzger sions about education during the COVID pandemic. Elementary School; Merrill Hendin, principal, Portland Jewish As things continue to evolve, JFGP has reconstructed the series Academy; Aviel Brodkin, principal, Maayan Torah Day School; to help parents find balance in changing times. At 8 pm, Jan. 25, and Dinah Gilburd, LCSW, JFCS. Zoom into the series to learn what elementary schools in our com- Sign up at jewishportland.org/elementaryschool. munity are doing to prepare for the potential of school buildings For more information, contact JFGP Director of Educational Ini- reopening in February and how they have been running school this tiatives Rachel Nelson at [email protected]. 4 Jewish Review Jan. 20, 2021 Jewish Review Jan. 20, 2021 5 Finding Quality Humans BY DEBORAH MOON On Episode Zero, Justin ex- Jewish educator and plained his vision: “Here on the award-winning, singer-song- podcast we’ll talk to artists, mu- writer Justin Jude Carroll creat- sicians, novelists, clergy, jour- ed the Quality Human podcast nalists, innovators and teachers. to explore “What does it mean We’ll explore the work they do, to be a good person?” their personal values and their The recent challenges of life efforts to live those values each in a pandemic coming after five day. My hope is that you’ll gain years recovering from a trau- something valuable, something matic brain injury prompted you can use in your daily life, Justin to ponder “What makes from each episode.” Initially, he reached out to people he knew pro- fessionally or personally (so his first guests were Jewish or in the arts world). But since the ini- tial episodes, people he doesn’t know have been very receptive to coming on as guests. "Guests have had their interests piqued by what Justin Jude Carroll presents Quality we are trying to do,” Human Podcast, available on Apple he says. “In times like Cedar Sinai Park staff waiting for their turn to be vaccinated flash V Podcasts & Spotify. quality-human.com these, people are really for Victory over COVID-19, V for the Vaccine for COVID-19. open to it.” a good life?” In 2015, Justin The podcasts are wide ranging was in New Orleans visiting but almost always touch on par- (from page 1) old friends when a staircase to enting and creativity. VACCINE an outdoor balcony they were In Episode 1, Justin and Neveh Those who missed that dead- ient … every nuance of the pan- on collapsed. Justin suffered a Shalom Associate Rabbi Posen line received their first vaccine demic is new. The CSP team’s broken leg and closed head in- discuss the ongoing project of Jan. 19 and will get the second response has been a testament jury, which limited the amount reinterpretation – how we look on Feb. 9. to who they are as people and of time he could read or look at back at our holy texts, traditions Rose Schnitzer Manor as- their commitment to the Jewish a screen. While he focused on and assumptions, and by doing sisted-living residents are due people.” recovering, he had to scale back so, how we look forward. Rab- to get vaccinated in February. Robison Director of Nursing his performance schedule. bi Posen is the co-author, with RSM contracts with Omni- Shannon Freeman, RN, like- Justin launched the podcast Lois Shenker, of Pirkei Imahot: care’s CVS pharmacy, which wise praised the nursing staff, in September after he left his The Wisdom of Mothers, the has not yet set a date for when calling them “amazing and sup- position as preschool music ed- Voices of Women. vaccines will be available there. portive.” ucator at Portland Jewish Acad- His conversation with Anna “It’s a different set of logistics Only two people had mild emy to provide stability for his Solomon, author of the Pu- for assisted living,” says Fuson, negative reactions to the first children. Ariel, 13, and Matan, rim-based novel The Book of V, noting CVS staff will admin- dose of vaccine. One had a mild 9, are doing distance learn- likewise explores the voices of ister the vaccines in a central headache and one a mild fever. ing at home during COVID women. He says they explore location at RSM. “It feels like getting a tetanus restrictions; Nava, 4, attends questions such as “How do we At Robison and the house- shot,” says Freeman. preschool. His wife, Dr. Keren tell stories?” And “Who gets to holds, CSP nursing staff vacci- She encourages everyone Rosenblum, an OB-GYN, has a decide what the story is?” nated residents in their rooms, eligible to get the vaccine as busy schedule during COVID. “I’ve learned so much from and staff queued up socially soon as they are able and if Justin has recorded eight in- these guests, from wellness distanced in the hall to receive concerned to do your research terviews that investigate “How practices to creative techniques their vaccine. to feel comfortable. Though do we maintain balance amidst to deep lessons in how Jewish “We were enjoying the day,” masking and social distancing COVID and all of life’s de- values sustain us in difficult says Fuson. “They had a boom will be required for some time, mands.” He has interviewed times,” he says. box in the vaccination room vaccines will eventually allow civil rights attorney Jon Fein- Justin and Keren moved from and there was some dancing the country to return to a more berg, author Anna Solomon, St. Louis to Portland 17 years between vaccines – the spray normal existence. Rabbi Eve Posen and Broad- ago when Keren began her resi- bottles (cleaning the surfaces) When you get vaccinated, you way actor Rodney Hicks. He dency at OHSU. The family are were doing the hustle.” will receive a vaccination card. is committed to hosting guests members of Havurah Shalom. “I am really proud of the Ro- “Do not lose it,” says Free- from all backgrounds (racial, He has performed or taught as bison team,” says Fuson. “The man. “It is your ticket to free- ethnic, sexual orientation) and a song leader at many of Port- team has been extremely resil- dom.” all walks of life. land’s synagogues. 6 Jewish Review Jan. 20, 2021 Women’s Giving Circle connects with beneficiaries BY DEBORAH MOON At a Jan. 12 Zoom meeting, the Women’s Giving Circle of Portland experienced a condensed version of a Hillel program they have helped fund as they prepare to consider a new round of grants for the coming year. The giving circle awarded 18 grants total- ing $60,465 in its first three years, including just one grant of $18,000 last year to the Jew- ish Greater Portland Together COVID-19 Relief Fund after the pandemic struck. For 2021-22, the circle will grant $28,000 (see box for application information). “Times are weird, but we can support programming, and we want to put it (our funds) to work,” said Jessica Zutz Hilbert, who co-chairs the Women’s Giving Circle with Felicia Rosenthal. The grant application notes: We hope that one of these grants might allow your organization to fill The Women's Giving Circle of Portland members meet staff and students from Oregon Hil- an unmet need as you face unprecedented lel to learn about the Women's Retreats and Rosh Chodesh gatherings they have funded. challenges this year. An Oregon Hillel staffer and three students shared the impact that past grants and GRANT APPLICATIONS DUE FEB. 15, 2021 the resulting programs have had on them The Jewish Federation’s Women’s Giving Circle is now accepting and Oregon Hillel at the University of Ore- applications for its 2021-2022 grant-making cycle. The circle funds gon and Oregon State University. The four then led the women in an exercise they had programs and initiatives with a focus on women and girls (including intended to use at the third annual Hillel transgender), justice and Jewish continuity. Women’s Retreat, which was canceled by statewide “stay home” orders last spring. VIRTUAL ZOOM SITE VISITS: April 12 and April 19 The Women’s Giving Circle funded Hil- AWARD DATE: June 7, 2021 lel’s first two retreats in 2018 and 2019, as well as Rosh Chodesh gatherings for two TOTAL FUNDING AVAILABLE: $28,000 years. Rosh Chodesh, the day that marks INDIVIDUAL GRANTS: $1,000-$5,000 the arrival of each new Jewish month, is : jewishportland.org/ourcommunity/ often celebrated as a women’s holiday. APPLY “Helping plan the first women’s retreat womens-philanthropy/womens-giving-circle was the most impactful of my college experiences – socially, spiritually and mental-health wise,” said Alexa Singer, an OSU tion & Spirituality Rachel Chodorow-Reich model of ReJewvenation, an annual wom- senior. “It helped guide me to a leadership each met in a breakout room with about en’s retreat held at B’nai B’rith Camp that role and helped me connect with a lot of four women’s circle participants. In honor went virtual last fall. Oregon Hillel will also strong women.” of Tu B’Shevat, the new year for trees, the draw on its experiences hosting monthly UO Senior Sarah Birch, who says Hillel women were invited to share what parts of Zoom gatherings for Rosh Chodesh. has been a big part of her college expe- their life as a seed, sapling and sequoia they Rachel C-R said Zoom life has been a rience, agrees that the women’s retreat, wanted to nourish. silver lining of the pandemic. “We can which brings together Hillel women from When the breakout rooms reconvened, integrate more people. We can do Rosh both campuses, has been her most impact- each woman completed the sentence, “One Chodesh with UO and OSU and alumni on ful experience. way I want to nourish part of my identity Zoom.” She said next month, they also plan OSU senior Rachel Polasky says she has during Shabbat (or this month) is to …” to invite students from Portland State Uni- experienced true heart-to-heart connections Replies included cook, work out, find versity and Lewis & Clark College to join at the retreats and Rosh Chodesh gather- work-life balance, phone friends more of- the Zoom gathering. ings. “The experience of leading women’s ten, explore or connect with nature, play Felicia thanked the Hillel women for retreat gave me the confidence to pursue more and stretch my mind. “making this a rich experience for all of leadership – even beyond Hillel,” says Ra- Women’s circle member Sharon Pollin us.” She thanked the women for all they chel, who this year is president of the 200+ shared an idea that Rachel C-R called “bril- do and added, “We await with bated breath member Society of Women Engineers on liant.” your contribution to this community.” the OSU campus. Sharon says she created a Bingo card/ “They need to join the Women’s Giving The third retreat was expected to focus on chart for herself that reflects what activities Circle,” added Mia Birk, who had joined identity. The Hillel guests led the women’s are important to her and how many times Felicia two years ago for the site visit to circle through two of the planned exercis- each week she wants to touch each activity. Oregon Hillel to assess their grant applica- es from that canceled event. Alexa, Sarah, This year, Oregon Hillel hopes to host a tion. Mia is the immediate past cochair of Rachel and OSU Director of Jewish Educa- virtual women’s retreat, drawing on the the giving circle. Jewish Review Jan. 20, 2021 7 Portlanders tapped for ADL leadership institute Four Portlanders have been hort is very appropriate given invited to join the 2021 Co- Portland’s nightly protests in hort of the Glass Leadership the wake of George Floyd’s Institute of the Anti-Defama- murder. The Portland protests tion League. The ADL Pacific against racism and police bru- Northwest region has expanded tality drew white nationalists its Glass Leadership Institute to the community, requiring to include Portland with its trained responses. She sees the traditional Seattle class. ADL and the local JCRC heed- Portlanders Sarah E. Rohr, ing this rising tide of hate to ad- Lauren Gold Miller, Emily Local Glass Leadership Institute cohort, from left, Sarah Rohr, vocate on behalf of the safety of Fullerton and Jules Prow will Jules Prow, Emily Fullerton and (not pictured) Lauren Gold Miller. our Jewish community and the join participants from western munity activism efforts, and the grounds in their mid-20s BIPOC communities that we Washington to form this year’s mission of the GLI struck me through their early 40s partici- stand with as allies and friends. 18-member virtual cohort. as an opportunity to grow my pate in this nine-month interac- “I’m looking forward to work- GLI empowers the next gen- knowledge and skill set to do tive program that gives young ing with a local cohort, as we eration of leaders committed to my part to identify hate in my professionals an inside look will get to take our learnings and ADL’s mission with the tools community and fight back.” into ADL’s work on a broad directly apply them here in Port- to fight anti-Semitism and hate Jules Prow is a global pro- range of topics, including civil land and around the state,” says and build a just and inclusive gram manager at Columbia rights advocacy, domestic ex- Sarah. “Nationalism and the society. The first virtual session Sportswear Company and is a tremism and building bridges manifestation of bigoted behav- of the nine-month program will board member for Jews Next with diverse communities to iors have received far too much be later this month. Due to the Dor, Congregation Beth Israel’s fight bias and discrimination. attention; it’s time for a moral ongoing pandemic, sessions will young adult group. CBI Exec- Glass participants are chosen accounting on a local, national be virtual until further notice. utive Director Josh Kashinksy based on their demonstrated and global level. As a local ac- “I am grateful for the oppor- encouraged her to apply. leadership qualities, as well as tivist, I am grateful for the hard tunity to be equipped with a “I want to expand my hori- their interest in and commit- work being put in on all those broader advocacy tool kit from zons and involvement in sup- ment to social justice. levels, by public officials, by ed- the Anti-Defamation League,” porting a more fair and equita- “Given the horrific displays of ucators, by clergy, by concerned says Sarah, a local writer and ble community,” says Jules. “I anti-Semitism currently on full citizens, and those whose aim is artist who sits on the Jewish am looking forward to joining display both locally and nation- to eradicate the practice of ‘oth- Community Relations Council. a peer-led group that is com- ally, the work of the Anti-Defa- ering’ by opening minds to what JCRC Director Bob Horenstein mitted to combating hatred and mation League is a critical part connects us, our common and recommended Sarah apply for building tolerance.” of the effort to stop the spread enduring humanity, our ability the Glass Institute. Glass gradu- Lauren Gold Miller is an as- of disinformation and hate,” to make beauty, our capacity to ate Matthew Kahl, who serves as sociate principal at Korn Ferry, says Emily. “I hope to learn empathize and self-express, and a representative for the ADL on a global organizational con- more about the strategies and the noble desire to empower one the Intergroup Outreach Com- sulting firm, helping clients resources available for all indi- another.” mittee of the JCRC, provided a synchronize strategy and talent. viduals who want to protect the Jules adds, “I am very interest- recommendation for Sarah. Lauren earned a bachelor’s in rights of others to be free from ed in getting involved in ADL’s Emily Fullerton is an attorney psychology from Portland State discrimination and violence, educational programs and help- in Portland focusing on general University and a Master of Arts and in particular how I can use ing corporations expand their and commercial civil litigation in community leadership and my legal background to partici- diversity, equity and inclusion at Schwabe, Williamson & Wy- philanthropy studies from He- pate in that effort.” initiatives.” att. “I’ve been actively trying to brew University. Sarah says the timing of For more information visit expand my pro bono and com- Young leaders of all back- adding Portland to the co- https://seattle.adl.org/gli/. COVID-19 outreach team receives funding through June The Congregation Neveh March 14. You MUST be regis- expenses such as lodging and newsletter with pandemic-re- Shalom COVID-19 Outreach tered to receive a test. For help, groceries during the quarantine lated news, updates and tips for and Services team has received call 971-990-5652 or email period. If you’ve been affected navigating a COVID-19 world funding from Oregon Health [email protected]. indirectly, such as through a job (in 2021, the newsletter will Authority to continue social Since August 2020, CNS- loss, we can help you find and be published twice per month). services through June 2021. COS has been providing aid navigate the wide variety of ex- To stay updated, subscribe to CNSCOS is hosting drive- to individuals in the Portland isting financial resources. the newsletter at tinyurl.com/ through COVID-19 testing metropolitan area. CNSCOS CNSCOS also has hosted CNSCOS-Subscribe. events at the Mittleman Jewish provides aid to anyone affected community outreach clinics to Nevehshalom.org/covid19/ Community Center. We’ll be by COVID-19, but the type of provide drive-through flu shot has more information about our offering both RAPID and PCR aid depends on whether an in- and COVID-19 testing at the team and program, past editions tests for free. Tests are limited, dividual has tested positive or Mittleman Jewish Community of our newsletter, and helpful so you MUST register. Sign up not. If you’ve tested positive Center and virtual Q&A live financial, medical and mental for a testing slot between 12:30 and need to quarantine, we can sessions with local experts. The health resources. All communi- and 2:30 pm on February 14 or provide financial assistance for team also sends out a weekly cations are confidential. 8 Jewish Review Jan. 20, 2021 PEARLS is antidote to loneliness in pandemic BY JENN DIRECTOR KNUDSEN sessions over about six months. PEARLS of PEARLS’ agenda, which also includes “Tired,” “sick,” “alone,” even “erased.” is not new to JFCS, but much of its for- gently pushing oneself toward setting ob- This is how counseling clients of Jewish mat is. Visits used to take place in clients’ tainable goals, self-care, physical and so- Family & Child Service have described homes; they now occur online or over the cial well-being and more. their pandemic-induced loneliness to Mis- phone, says Caitlin DeBoer, JFCS mental Fry says she expected clients in 2020 to sy Fry, LCSW. health social worker and emergency aid request more than PEARLS’ eight sessions. Being lonely and isolated is difficult any program manager. While a few did, she says it’s been so grat- day. Now as we round the corner to the After the advent of COVID-19, JFCS and ifying that most make important progress one-year mark of the COVID-19 pandem- Multnomah County identified that primary within the standard program. “Eight ses- ic’s onset, loneliness and isolation might be challenges for individuals were isolation sions make an impact,” she says. running more rampant than the virus itself. and disconnection from mental health DeBoer emphasizes that it’s paramount to This is particularly true with the majori- services. The county was able to reinstate acknowledge that we’re all going through ty of JFCS’s clients, folks who skew older funding for the program through the end of a period of collective trauma and to con- than 60 and live alone, or who face barriers the fiscal year. JFCS also gained access to sistently check in with ourselves, such as to regular social interaction, says Fry, a li- the federal CARES Act to provide stopgap asking oneself, “How am I feeling in my censed clinical social worker at JFCS. services. body, emotionally and physically? Am I “They describe being down and unin- “When I think about loneliness, at its core sad, stressed?” terested in things, without access to their it’s missing social connections,” Fry says. Just as PEARLS’ core is about forging normal activities,” she says of many of the PEARLS is a key antidote. human connections, DeBoer urges people nonprofit’s clients. For some of them, this Fry explains the importance of focus- generally to reach out to one another fre- is their first time seeking help. ing on the present (as opposed to, say, a quently. “The act of doing that alone make They’ve told Fry throughout the pandemic, difficult childhood) and problem-solving us feel good and feel good about ourselves. “I don’t even know what to do with myself.” during counseling sessions. It’s a way to support ourselves,” she says. Fry says a client recently shared that he DeBoer, who was PEARLS’ main lead Feeling gratitude for things we never didn’t even recognize himself from his own throughout 2020, says that breaking down used to acknowledge is a way forward, too, photographs. issues into “small, bite-sized pieces” helps “Even if it’s the smallest things, like notic- JFCS’ health-care professionals empha- people believe they have agency over ing it’s now lighter out for more minutes of size that help is available, positive expe- problems and can regain a sense of control the day,” Fry says. riences can abound, and that since they within a larger experience that feels out of DeBoer adds, “We want to be empower- also are experiencing isolation, they can control. ing and not invalidating.” empathize more than ever before with their For example, DeBoer will ask her clients, For more information about JFCS’ clients who are hurting. One special pro- “What can you do even if you cannot con- PEARLS program, contact Stephanie Lee gram that communicates all this and more trol the pandemic?” at [email protected]. is PEARLS. Cleaning house, calling friends and fami- With a master's in journalism from UC The Program to Encourage Active and ly, getting fresh air are some answers to this Berkeley, Jenn Director Knudsen has been Rewarding Lives offers eight counseling question. In fact, activity planning is part a reporter and editor since 1997. ART presents The Berlin Diaries as audio drama Artists Repertory Theater funded the six-week intensive presents The Berlin Diaries effort. A series of audio dramas by Andrea Stolowitz as an au- and experimental short films dio drama on Zoom. Andrea’s will be released to audiences in great-grandfather kept a jour- the winter, spring and summer nal for his descendants after of 2021. escaping to New York City in ART is planning its next Mer- 1939 as a German Jew. Andrea cury Company development goes back to Berlin to bring the process in the spring of 2021. story of her unknown ancestors ART received support from out of the archives and into the the Oregon Jewish Museum light. and Center for Holocaust Ed- Join ART for the Virtual Re- ucation for supplemental mate- lease Party from the comfort rial and podcast. Jan. 27, 2021, of your home on Jan. 24. The are $20 per household. orative process and hired nearly is International Holocaust virtual doors open at 2:30 for Attendees will be the first to 90 writers, directors, educators, Remembrance Day; for more guests to mingle with other hear the new audio drama re- actors, technicians, designers information and resources, visit guests and artists in Zoom corded during ART: Mercury and producers to create the- ojmche.org. breakout rooms. The audio Company. ater-inspired work that moves To purchase tickets to the drama begins at 3 pm. After ART created the Mercury beyond the traditional form in Jan. 24 opening party or access the show, hear from Director Company in June 2020 to re- response to public assembly just the audio drama beginning Dámaso Rodríguez and Play- spond to COVID restrictions. restrictions. Individual donors Jan. 25, visit artistsrep.org/ wright Andrea Stolowitz. Tick- In October and November and COVID relief grants dis- performance/berlin-diaries ets for the virtual opening party 2020, ART built on that collab- tributed by the State of Oregon -audio-drama. Jewish Review Jan. 20, 2021 9 Tuesdays for Trash plans Tu B’Shevat cleanup BY DEBORAH MOON tuesdaysfortrash.com/events. Sharona Shnayder, a former The two women started Tues- PDX Hillel board member, days for Trash to create “an and Wanda McNealy founded immediate reminder and call to Tuesdays for Trash during their action for individuals to con- final semester at Portland State sistently pick up trash on that University last year. day of the week, aiding them in Now the duo has teamed up making it a routine part of their with @ourstreets to plan a week as opposed to a one-time worldwide virtual cleanup to endeavor,” says Sharona. celebrate Tu B’Shevat, the Jew- You can read more about the ish New Year for Trees, which group in a Jewish Review story is often called Jewish Earth at jewishportland.org/jewish Day. The cleanup is designed to review/jr-stories/psu-grads- “tackle the waste management create-tuesdays-for-trash. aspect of the climate crisis by Tuesdays for Trash co-founder Sharona Shnayder collects trash at Sharona plans to move to Is- cleaning up our streets, trails Sandy Beach in Oahu, Hawaii. rael in May. “I’m hopeful with and local community spaces in tion by sharing a picture of their Jan 23-24. “We will announce the immunizations happening a safe and responsible manner.” bag on social media through our total contribution on Jan. right now,” says Sharona of In addition, a $5 donation per tagging @tuesdaysfortrash or 27.” Sharona notes since T4T's her May move. “I’ve secured bag collected will be donated to @ourstreetspdx. funds are limited, it may take a an internship with a sustainable Flash Forest, an environmental Planting trees is currently the few months to make the total B-Corporation in Tel Aviv. I’ll nonprofit that uses UAV tech- fastest and cheapest way to se- donation. definitely keep the movement nology and ecological science quester carbon, so by helping The women encourage partic- (going) despite being in Israel!” to mass plant trees based on an increase this regeneration, we ipants to wear a mask, gloves Wanda, who plans to remain area’s biological needs. T4T can begin to tip the scales on the and social distance while out in Oregon for now, also plans (tuesdaysfortrash.com) and Our climate crisis, notes Sharona. on your pickup. They also to keep working on T4T. StreetsPDX (ourstreetspdx.org/) This year, Tu B’Shevat falls suggest visiting best practices “We’re keeping this move- are providing the donations. on Jan. 27. Sharona encourages for safe trash gathering on the ment going for the rest of our People can verify their collec- people to pick up a bag of trash bottom of their events page: lives,” says Sharona. Taste of Temple goes virtual (but food is real) BY KERRY POLITZER So far, response from the congregation sweet filling doesn’t overpower the cookie. has been very positive. Kashinsky says, The other important part of rugelach is to For almost 10 years, Congregation Beth “Almost all of our sponsors from previous not put too much filling in them; otherwise, Israel has held its annual Taste of Temple years have agreed to sponsor again this you end up with a leaky pastry.” – a popular event that celebrates Portland year, and congregants are eager to have One of this chefs and helps support the synagogue. positive ways to connect.” The congrega- year’s food box “Normally, we have an in-person event tion has also been happy to help support contributors is with 250+ attendees and 25-30 food and local food and beverage businesses during chef Noah Ja- beverage vendors,” says Executive Direc- these difficult times. cob. Together tor Josh Kashinsky. Kashinsky is excited about a brand-new with his new But due to the COVID-19 crisis, CBI had component of the event: Tiny Taste of catering com- to drastically reimagine this year’s event, Temple. “(It’s) a free family cooking class pany, Jacob which will be going virtual on Sunday, Jan. we’re offering the week before B’Teyavon & Sons, he is 31. Instead of mingling over wine glasses (our main event). Chef and restaurateur excited to be and small plates, participants will pick up Sonya Sanford is going to be leading a participating in curated food boxes to enjoy at home, and family rugelach-making class. We’d been Taste of Tem- they’ll meet with chefs and friends over talking in past years about how we could ple for the first time. “The theme is Med- Zoom. involve kids and the whole family, and this iterranean,” says the chef. “We’ll be doing Event co-chairs Amy and Josh Remick year allowed us to make that happen.” some chickpea bruschetta, mushroom con- explain why. “The most important point for Sanford, formerly of Beetroot Market & serve, pickled fennel and pineapple, and us was remembering the original purpose Deli, has a long history with CBI. In addi- everything spice focaccia. We’ll also have of Taste of Temple. The event started as tion to participating in Taste of Temple last salted and sweet lemon curd mascarpone a community-building opportunity and a year, she has made latkes for the congrega- and a cocktail kit for a strawberry Hugo.” chance to engage food and beverage ven- tion. She will be demonstrating both sweet Other vendors include local favorites dors within the Portland metropolitan area. and savory rugelach during her virtual Kachka, Roons, Fire on the Mountain and Being sensitive to the current environment class. When asked how she makes them de- Yarden Wines. with economic challenges and restaurant licious, she says, “The secret to great, flaky Those who would like to experience the closures, we knew we had to manage this rugelach dough is cream cheese. I also like virtual event must register by Jan. 25 at piece differently.” to make the dough without sugar, so the https://e.givesmart.com/events/jx8/ . 10 Jewish Review Jan. 20, 2021 Virtual events in brief PSU’s Solomon Lecture explores Zoom panel to commemorate International Holocaust Remem- brance Day. Using never-before-seen, pre-war archival footage "Historic Time in America" and first-person testimonies, Trezoros: The Lost Jews of Kastoria The Gus and Libby Solomon Memorial Lecture goes virtual for chronicles the Jewish life and culture of Kastoria, a picturesque its 16th year. It features Ken Mehlman, who was the 62nd chair lakeside village in the mountains of Northwestern Greece near the of the Republican National Committee and campaign manager of Albania border. Here, Jews and Greek Orthodox Christians lived President Bush’s 2004 re-election campaign. together in harmony for more than two millennia until World War “A Historic Time in America: II, when this long and rich history was wiped out in the blink of How citizens, politicians and an eye. investors can together build a The follow-up Zoom conversation is with Larry Confino, Di- better world” is a free Zoom rector/Producer; Lawrence Russo, Director; Dr. Joe Halio, who webinar 5-6:30 pm. Feb. 4. served on the film as a consultant on Sephardic history; and An- Mehlman will discuss how drea Grass, who provided important archival photos and film to the impact investing is helping project through her family. to lay the groundwork for a Register online at ojmche.org/events more sustainable future. He will also touch on the future 21st Annual Community Havdalah Service of the Republican Party and For two decades, the Jewish Women’s Round Table has held a his work with the Chan Zuck- community Havdalah service at Cedar Sinai Park. This year, the erberg Initiative’s Policy Advi- 21st Annual Community Havdalah Service will be held virtually sory Board, where he serves as at 6:30 pm, Jan. 23. chairman. Cantor Rayna Green of Congregation Beth Israel will lead the Mehlman is co-head of KKR service. Global Impact, a private mar- Cedar Sinai Park CEO Kimberly Fuson, CSP Spiritual Life Co- ket investing platform focused on businesses that promote com- ordinator Cathy Zheutlin and JWRT President Marki Maizels will mercial solutions to global challenges associated with economic share welcoming remarks. development, environmental management, and education and The event is sponsored by the Jewish Women’s Round Table and learning. He is a trustee of Mt. Sinai Hospital of New York, Frank- Rose Schnitzer Manor. lin & Marshall College, Teach for America and Sponsors of Edu- To join the event, go to bethisrael-pdx.org/joinus. Programs are cational Opportunity. He lives in New York City. listed in chronological order; scroll to Sisterhood 21st Annual The lecture is presented annually by The Harold Schnitzer Fam- Community Havdalah and click on link to join the event. ily Program in Judaic Studies and underwritten by Richard Solo- mon and Alyce Flitcraft. Cosponsors of the event include Jewish Israeli writers host Portland poet on Zoom Federation of Greater Portland and Oregon Jewish Community Willa Schneberg has been invited by the Israel Association of Foundation. Register online at pdx.edu/judaic-studies Writers in English to present her poetry and visual art via Zoom. There is the Kabbalistic metaphor of “filling empty vessels.” The The Q: Virtual Escape Room Jan. 23 IAWE invites you to join Willa to fill these vessels with poetry and If there’s one virtual event you don’t want to miss this year, it’s art. She will sing the Song of the Shekhinah, the divine feminine/ NCSY’s annual Q trivia night fundraiser. Taking the form of a vir- feminist together with IAWE poets. tual escape room at 7:30 Saturday night, Jan. 23, teams of up to The program will be Jan. 24, 2021, at 9:30 am (PST); 7:30 pm eight will compete to win the coveted Q sweatshirts (as well as gift (IST). cards to Nordstrom and their names on the Q trophy). Please register at forms.gle/TAnuasxnhjvx4VxS6 to receive a The event, though virtual, includes a delicious food experience Zoom link to the event. (featuring a meal, snacks, wine and beer). “I truly love providing incredible experiences for people,” says Virtual Lions conference open to all women Oregon NCSY Director Meira Spivak. The Q gives adults a taste With the shift to a virtual program, this year’s International Lion of what an NCSY event is like for teens; the fun had at the Q is of Judah Conference is open to all women in the community. The similar to the fun teens have on a Shabbaton weekend retreat (sans conference is normally limited to Lions of Judah, women who the alcohol). have committed to an individual annual gift of $5,000 or more to “This year of COVID has been extremely challenging finan- their local Jewish Federation. cially, and we are looking forward towards regaining community Women from around the world will hear from leaders, innovators support. I just love watching the community rally around such an and entrepreneurs on Jan. 24 and 25. important cause,” says Spivak. Register at lionconference.org. Register at Oregon.ncsy.org. For more information on NCSY or the event, contact meira@ncsy.org. Find more virtual events For local virtual events, visit the community calendar at OJMCHE presents The Lost Jews of Kastoria jewishportland.org/community-calendar/online-events. From Jan. 24 to 26, the community is invited to watch Trezo- ros: The Lost Jews of Kastoria in preparation for a 6 pm, Jan. National resources: 27, Zoom panel discussion with the film’s director, producer OneTable (young adults): onetable.org and film consultants. Jewish Federations of North America: jewishtogether.org The Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Educa- Hillel International: welcome.hillel.org/hillelathome/ tion and the Never Again Coalition are presenting the film and PJ Library: pjlibrary.org/familyactivities Jewish Review Jan. 20, 2021 11 Chaplain's Corner I am My Brother’s Keeper BY RABBI BARRY COHEN These past four I am writing my words in between an insurrection on our years are a study Published biweekly by nation’s Capitol on Jan. 6 and of how easy it is to Jewish Federation of the inauguration of President Greater Portland Joe Biden on Jan. 20. I am manipulate others 9900 SW Greenburg Road, holding my breath. I fear for and motivate them Suite 220 potential violence in Washing- ton, D.C., and in state capitals Tigard, OR 97223 to do collectively all across the nation. 503-245-6219 A number of prayers for the what they would JewishPortland.org sake of our nation and political leaders have been flying around never consider Editor cyberspace. No, I am not about Deborah Moon to offer my own prayer for doing individually. [email protected] peace, our president, unity or Rabbi Barry Cohen is the 503-892-7404 (message) healing. For me, now is not a Cain, “Where is Abel your Jewish community chaplain of time for prayer. Now is a time brother?” And he said, “I know the Greater Portland area. Circulation for reflection, reflection that not; Am I my brother’s keeper?” To receive the Jewish leads to action. And God said, “What have you their previous means of com- Review in your email inbox, I continue to be haunted by done? The voice of your broth- munication. Now is the time to email your name and email the images of my fellow cit- er’s blood cries to me from the empower those who protect us address to izens storming the Capitol: ground.” (Genesis 4:9-10) and remove from power those [email protected] Confederate flags, neo-Nazi I fear that many more Cains who threaten us. insignia, “Camp Auschwitz,” will murder many more Abels. But then, let’s circle back to OPINIONS printed in the Crusader symbols, insurrec- Of note, a literal translation of our fellow citizens. The time tionists wearing battle fatigues Genesis 4:10 is this: “The voice will soon come when we have Jewish Review do not and even a gallows. of your brother’s bloods cries to meet each other where we necessarily reflect those Many people argue that this is out to me…” The Rabbis com- are, address our fears and dis- of the Jewish Review not America. The cold hard re- ment that Cain shed not only cover what we have in com- Committee, the Jewish ality is that this is America. Too Abel’s blood, but the blood of mon. I must believe that we Federation of Greater many of our fellow citizens are all those who could have de- have the ability to strengthen Portland, its governing angry, afraid and bigoted. And scended from Abel. If insurrec- that which unites us and weak- board or the staffs of either they feel American to their tionists strike again, they will en that which divides us. the newspaper or the core. In addition, these past shed the bloods of innocent I close with the well-known Federation. four years are a study of how Americans. lesson of Dr. Martin Luther easy it is to manipulate others This is who we are. What are King Jr. as I type these words and motivate them to do collec- we going to do about it? on MLK Day: “We shall over- Upcoming tively what they would never The first part of addressing come because the arc of the consider doing individually. any problem is admitting we moral universe is long, but it issues This is who we are. We have have a problem. Now is the bends toward justice.” to accept it. We have to con- time to break our collective Let us continue to act, even Issue date Deadline front it. spell of misinformation, alter- though we know not how long These past weeks, I have been native facts and propaganda. this arc toward justice will be. Jan. 28 reflecting on the first murder Now is the time to block per- Through our dedicated, disci- Feb. 3 ever recorded: After Cain killed manently those who express plined efforts, we will reach our his brother Abel, God said to lies and plan insurrection from sacred goal. Feb. 17 Feb. 11

March 3 Feb. 25 Rabbi's Corner In addition to the Chaplain's Corner, the Jewish Review reserves space for a March 17 March 11 Rabbi's Corner each issue. Our community's rabbis are invited to share their thoughts on the week's parsha or current events. The Oregon Board of Rabbis March 31 March 25 organized the project. Submit news, photos and obit- Rabbis are invited to schedule a date to submit a 500-word piece. For more uaries by the issue deadline to: information, email [email protected]. [email protected].

12 Jewish Review Jan. 20, 2021 Guest Column Upstart cohort taps What is JPRO PDX? BY SAUL KORIN building community virtually. Beth Israel director Jewish Professionals Net- In October, Rabbi Isaiah Roth- Congregation Beth Israel Ex- work (jpro.org) is a communi- stein, rabbinic scholar and public ecutive Director Josh Kashin- ty-building arm for profession- affairs advisor at Jewish -Feder sky is one of 52 professionals als working within the Jewish ations of North America, spoke accepted into the four national community. JPRO members about the concept of “a Sukkah cohorts of UpStart’s Change learn about each other, care wide enough” to reimagine the Accelerator program. about each other and find ways Jewish community in a more UpStart’s Change Accelerator to work together. Events are inclusive way in terms of race. equips intrapreneurs – the bold open to people who work at our November brought Barry Fires- leaders making meaningful communal organizations. tone from the Jim Joseph Foun- change within our community’s JPRO activity in Portland has dation to speak on a vision for Jewish institutions – to employ been on again, off again for philanthropy post-COVID-19. an entrepreneur’s mindset, many years. Its listserv offers In December, JPRO held a short change course quickly and de- a way to convene or commu- but sweet Hanukkah Zoom and velop creative solutions to meet nicate with professionals who heard stories from Portland’s the current moment. Over the work for Jewish organizations. own Judy Margles (OJMCHE) next six months, these leaders Josh Kashinsky In 2018, JPRO rebranded as and Rabbi Motti Wilhelm from will learn the skills and tools JPRO PDX under the national Chabad of Oregon. they need to meet their commu- The Deepening Connections movement of JPRO. JPRO events Most recently, on Jan. 13, nities’ rapidly evolving needs, and Thriving Communities focus on networking, professional JPRO partnered with the Blue and gain a community of prac- cohorts will focus on exploring development, skill-building and Dove Foundation for a mental tice with which to brainstorm, new ways to meet constituents’ celebrating Jewish communal health workshop. The program take their initiatives to the next needs, deepen relationships professionals’ work. JPRO PDX centered around the misheber- level and create the Jewish across their communities and is grateful for funding from the ach (prayer for healing) and community of the future. create more inclusive insti- Jewish Federation of Greater allowed professionals to co-cre- “This is a great opportunity tutions. The Power in Part- Portland and the Community ate personal prayers of healing to learn with some incredible ners cohort will focus on fos- Endowment Fund of Oregon for mental health. During these leaders from across the coun- tering meaningful partnerships Jewish Community Foundation. challenging times, it was mean- try and to learn from a Jewish among stakeholders and creat- A volunteer team of profes- ingful to focus on personal needs organization that is committed ing a coalition of leaders who sionals from local Jewish or- within a professional setting. to helping institutions man- share a commitment to commu- ganizations lead JPRO PDX to JPRO offers Jewish profes- age change well,” says Josh. nity success. create and implement program- sionals a space to focus on their “Especially, in the times we Josh is part of the Reimagining ming that is meaningful for critical work in the community. currently find ourselves, the Institutions cohort, which will Jewish professionals in their Whether the synagogue space, pace of change is accelerating, focus on redefining the purpose work and lives. I am joined the nonprofit space, education- and legacy institutions (like a of Jewish institutions in a post- on the committee by Michelle al space or tikkun olam space, 160+year-old synagogue) are COVID world and weaving in- Caplan (Neveh Shalom), Gail Jewish professionals make not historically known for our novation into the framework of Mandel (Oregon Jewish Mu- a difference in Portland and ability to change quickly.” institutional operations. seum and Center for Holocaust around the country. Josh believes his participation “The pace of change across Education), Rachel Nelson If you work for a Jewish orga- could benefit Portland’s entire all sectors is increasing, and it (Jewish Federation of Great- nization and want to be added Jewish community. Being nim- is naïve to think we, CBI, are er Portland), Nava Sherwood to the listserv, email Caron at ble and adjusting skills will be immune,” says Josh. He adds (Eden Village West) and others. [email protected]. essential in our changing world. that CBI Board President Tony Meeting in person after long “I certainly hope to be able Urdes and Senior Rabbi Mi- days supporting the Jewish com- Saul to share insights with my pro- chael Cahana are also “thinking munity was not always easy, but Korin is fessional colleagues through- about these issues.” JPRO has thrived in the Zoom the lead out the community and within Josh moved to Portland to environment and has met more volunteer CBI,” says Josh. “Many of the lead CBI in May 2016 with his often during the lockdown. In for JPRO factors that impact CBI specif- wife, Michelle, and two chil- April, JPRO partnered with PDX. ically impact other parts of the dren. Rose is now in second Jewish Family & Child Service He is the Jewish Portland as well. And grade and Fiona in kindergarten for a counseling session for director the stronger the overall Jewish at Portland Jewish Academy. professionals dealing with the of donor ecosystem, the better able we Previously, he was the assistant COVID-19 shutdown and ongo- engage- are to serve the community and executive director at the Siegel ing protests. In July, Comedian ment and support each other.” JCC in Wilmington, Del. Prior Joel Chasnoff joined us to raise philan- This year, UpStart leveraged to that, he worked as a profes- some laughter during these chal- thropy at PJA and MJCC. He the application data to design sional in the theater world. A lenging times. In August, Dr. Ron is a father of three and a DJ cohorts focused on emerging graduate of UCSB and Sarah Wolfson from American Jewish in his spare time. You can find challenges and trends in Jewish Lawrence College, Josh grew University discussed ways of him on twitter @saulomite. life. up in the Silicon Valley. Jewish Review Jan. 20, 2021 13 degrees and a Ph.D. in public health from Oregon State University. Life-cycle events For both of them, their journey togeth- 50TH ANNIVERSARY er has deepened their appreciation of the concept of bashert, or “soulmate.” They Donna and Charles Kuttner appreciate each other for their commonal- On Donna and Charles Kuttner's first date, ities and their differences, for the journeys she wasn’t impressed. they’ve shared together, and the paths they That may have had something to do with have yet to explore. her migraine, but a second date two weeks “Fifty years is a long time,” Donna re- later made all the difference. “We talked flects. “The only way you can make that and talked,” Donna recalls, and the two work is to accept and respect the person for Texas natives discovered similar tastes in who they are, and who they will be as they movies and books – both even had a copy Donna and Charles Kuttner just outside Je- change over time.” of Winnie Ille Pu, the Latin translation of rusalem’s Jaffa Gate during a 2018 visit to Both Donna and Charles were married, A.A. Milne’s children’s classic. Israel. Photo courtesy of the Kuttner Family. briefly, to others before they met. “You A little over a year later, on Jan. 22, 1971, don’t always pick the right answer the first they married near Galveston, Texas, during a Conservative synagogue. In 1976, when time,” Donna says with a smile. a short break in Charles’ medical school they moved to rural Linn County in Ore- Their family includes daughter, Arwen, a schedule. In the five decades since, they’ve gon, they joined Beit Am, the Mid-Willa- Jewish day school teacher: her husband, Uri had three additional weddings (Reform, mette Jewish Community in Corvallis. And Ruttenberg; and granddaughter, Naomi, 14, Conservative and Orthodox) as Donna com- then in 1985, they joined Congregation in Englewood, N.J. Charles’ son, Jason, a pleted her conversion to Judaism, and as the Kesser Israel, though they didn’t move to clinical supervisor for a firm providing men- couple grew increasingly more observant. Portland until 2001. tal health services to adolescent dependents Their religious journeys paralleled their Charles, a psychiatrist for some 45 of military families, and his wife, Carrie, live geographic wanderings. They lived in San years, now works at Fanno Creek Clinic. in Honolulu, and Jason’s daughter, Io, 27, is Francisco while Charles completed his Donna, who was a music teacher when working at a winery in Charlottesville, Va. residency in psychiatry, and there joined they met, earned two additional master’s Story by Sura Rubenstein Obituaries Obituaries are posted online as they are received at jewishportland.org/obituaries. HELEN BLACK A Jerry was born Sept. 25, son, Max Drukman; daughter, Michael was a self-taught Helen Black, z”l, passed away 1956, to Jeanne and Herbert Sasha Crehan; daughters-in- salesman who founded one of Jan. 12, 2021, at the age of 93. Newmark. Jerry attended Bri- law, Lisa Feldstein and Susie Oregon’s most successful inde- Helen was predeceased by her dlemile Elementary School and Drukman; grandchildren, Me- pendent real estate companies. husband, Morris Black, z”l. Wilson High School. He gradu- lissa Crehan, Olivia Feinstein, He was a Lake Oswego resi- She is lovingly remembered ated from the University of Or- Sophie Drukman-Feldstein, dent, civic leader and former by her daughter, Ella Hess; egon with a degree in business Emily Drukman; brothers, CEO and founder of Hasson four grandchildren; and two and real estate in 1978. After Melvin and Robert. Mason was Company Realtors. He was great-grandchildren. college Jerry worked as a man- predeceased by his son, Sam diagnosed 10 years ago with a In keeping with the congrega- ager for Benjamin Franklin Sav- Drukman. malignant tumor caused by in- tion and family’s commitment ings and Loan and then at 3M. A longtime resident of the Bay haled asbestos fibers, according to keep our community safe Jerry was a lifelong member of Area, Mason lived in Portland to his family. and healthy, and in compliance Congregation Beth Israel. for many years. He was a pro- Michael was born Oct. 16, with our governor’s directive, a Jerry met the love of his life fessor at Reed College, editor at 1954, at Wilcox Women’s private interment was held. Barbara (Goffe) their sopho- Oregon Times magazine (now Hospital (now Legacy Good Congregation Neveh Shalom more year at U of O, and they defunct) and author of Wayne Samaritan Medical Center) extends condolences to the ex- married in 1981. They were to- Morse, A Political Biography. in Portland to Bob Hasson, a tended Black/Hess family. gether for 46 years. He was born in Boston on World War II vet and vegeta- A private family service was Feb. 23, 1932. ble seller, and Marilyn Hasson, JERRY NEWMARK held Jan. 11 at the Beth Israel In lieu of flowers, remem- who would later help manage Jerry Newmark, z”l, passed Cemetery. brances to Survivors Interna- her son’s real estate offices. away on Jan. 8, 2021, after Congregation Bet Israel offers tional in San Francisco in his Bob Hasson’s father immi- battling the effects of a cancer condolences to the extended memory will be appreciated. grated from Rhodes, Greece, diagnosis 41 years ago. He was Newmark family. and opened a produce stand in the beloved husband of Barba- Donations in Jerry’s memo- MICHAEL J. HASSON the 1920s in Portland. Michael J. Hasson, z”l, died ra Newmark; father of Chelsea ry can be made to the OHSU In 1991, Michael started Has- Dec. 31, 2020, at the age of Newmark (Gilbert Coronado) Knight Cancer Institute, Jewish son Company Realtors. 66 from mesothelioma. He is and Adam Newmark; grandfa- Child & Family Service or the The family encourages peo- survived by daughters Lauren, ther of Silas, Mateo and Anna Mt. Hood Ski Patrol. ple to donate to the OHSU Coronado, and Erin and Bren- Jenna and Michelle; brother, Foundation-Michael J. Hasson nan Newmark; son of Jeanne MASON DRUKMAN Barry; two grandchildren; and Lectureship for Mesothelioma Newmark; and brother of Rich- Mason Drukman, z”l, died nieces and nephews. He was (onwardohsu.org/donation). ard Newmark (Lizz), Miles Jan. 6, 2021, in Oakland, Calif. preceded in death by his sister, Read his full obituary in the (Barbara Gilbert), Phyllis New- Mason is survived by his be- Janise (Jani), who died from Oregonian. mark, and Janice Newmark. loved wife, Anne Barrows; his breast cancer in 1995. 14 Jewish Review Jan. 20, 2021