jr

INSIDE



Women volunteers
honored – page 2

Brodkins feted – page 2
Portland
athletes
June 22, 2022 / Sivan 23, 5782 Volume 57, Issue 13 star on
Israel
Together again! sports
teams
– pages 4-5

CBI to host clergy
from afar – page 5
PJA graduates its
largest class – page 6

Jewish groups join
Pride March – page 6

Jeanine Semon still
creative at 92;
People gather in person (and virtually) for Federation's 102nd Annual Meeting. Photo by Victor Paru Artists react to Judy
JFGP celebrates 102 years Chicago exhibit –



The Jewish Federation of Greater Portland cel- More than 150 people joined the hybrid cele- page 7
ebrated 102 years of supporting a vibrant Jewish bration in person and on Zoom. Federation allocates
community locally and globally at its annual Later in the evening, Goldstein said she heard funds locally and to
meeting June 13 in the Mittleman Jewish Com- many times during the pandemic that Federation projects in Israel
munity Center Ballroom. played a vital role as a community convener. “We
“I love seeing all these amazing faces in person,” needed to spearhead a communitywide collabo- – page 9
said outgoing JFGP Board Chair Lauren Goldstein. ration. … When we come together as a commu- Chaplain: Broken but
“I’m thrilled to be here in person with so many of nity, great things happen.”
you. … but we have some amazing community She praised the board for funding the com- blessed – page 10
members on Zoom as well, so I think that is the munity study that begins in October. The study
best of both worlds having a hybrid meeting.” See JFGP ANNUAL MEETING, page 8 Jobs Board: Tivnu
– page 10
CBI invites community Portlanders tapped as
“Back to the Plaza” for Wisdom Fellows

three summer Fridays – page 11
Plan to pack a picnic, welcome Shabbat with EVENTS: TischPDX
a joyful outdoor musical service, connect with applications due;
community and enjoy the sunshine on the Beth Pride dinner; Nemer
Israel Plaza at 6 pm on three Friday evenings this
summer. All are welcome at CBI’s beloved sum- Award – page 11
mer tradition.
“Back to the Plaza Part 5782” takes place out- 50th Anniversary:
side the historic sanctuary at Congregation Beth Menashes – page 12
Israel, 1972 NW Flanders St., Portland.
CBI Brotherhood will sponsor the July 15 Psychedelics &
Shabbat on the Plaza. CBI’s Social Action Com- Judaism – page 12
mittee sponsors the Aug. 19 event. The summer
series wraps up Sept. 2 with the outdoor Kab- Grief Group – page 12
balat Shabbat sponsored by the WRJ/Beth Israel
Sisterhood. Obit: Klass – page 12

Women volunteers honored for service



The Jewish Women’s Round Table and description of their work and why they are valued by the organiza-
the Jewish Review are once again collab- tions that selected them.
orating to recognize outstanding women Next year, JWRT is planning to resume the in-person brunch
volunteers who have been selected by their event, which is usually held in early June. The 2023 brunch will
organizations to receive the Round Table’s recognize the volunteers honored during the pandemic as well as a
Song of Miriam Awards. new group of outstanding women.
The awards are usually presented during “Even though the pandemic has brought many things to a halt,
a brunch event in June, however that event it hasn’t lessened the need for committed volunteers to help
has not been held for the past two years due worthy causes,” said JWRT President Marki Maizels. “We are
to the pandemic. Once again, in 2022, the again very grateful to the Jewish Review for ensuring that the
continuing Covid situation caused the can- efforts of these women are brought to the attention of the Jew-
cellation of the in-person event. ish community.”
In this and future issues of the Jewish Review, a total of 14 Song For more information about the Jewish Women’s Round Table
of Miriam recipients for 2022 will be featured with their photo, a and the Song of Miriam awards, visit JWRT.org.
SONG OF MIRIAM 2022 HONOREES, PART 1

Following are two women whose organizations selected them SUE WENDEL: Honored by
to receive the Song of Miriam. More honorees will be profiled in the Next Generations Group
Jewish Review issues throughout the summer.
Sue Wendel has been instrumental in helping the Next Genera-
NIOMI MORR: Honored by Kol Shalom tions Group to grow and thrive. The group was founded in 2011
Niomi Morr is a pillar of the Kol Shalom community. and includes Holocaust survivors and their offspring, refugees and
For decades, Niomi played music and sang with the Kol Shalom community members who support preserving the lessons learned
Music Makers. Her singing voice and harmonies added joy to cel- from history.
ebrations and holiday observances. She Sue finds speakers for the monthly
has also actively supported childhood get-togethers, organizes social events
education in many ways. and volunteer projects, and provides
When something needs to be done, Nio- communications to members. Her
mi jumps in to help. She has served on friendly, warm and organized manner
the Kol Shalom board numerous times helps members feel welcome and val-
including as secretary. As an active mem- ued.
ber of the Social Action Committee, Nio- As a daughter of Holocaust survivors,
mi worked closely with the Metropolitan Sue is compelled to honor the legacies
Alliance for Common Good at the last of her parents, Hugo and Alice Kern, as
full Oregon legislative session, focusing well as all those murdered in the Holo-
on housing issues. caust, their survivors and descendants.
Niomi shines in her work on the Membership Committee. She Through her dedication and hard work, Sue has helped to create
welcomes prospective members, learns about them, tells them about a group that welcomes not only survivors and descendants, but
Kol Shalom and provides a “warm embrace” for those who join. anyone who supports the NGG mission of exploring the past, look-
Niomi’s attributes – kindness, authenticity, friendliness, heartfelt ing to the future, and sharing stories of courage, resilience and
commitment to social justice and deep caring about others – make hope, not only with the community but also worldwide through the
her a cherished and valued Kol Shalom member. group’s online presence.
Community bids fond farewell to Brodkins


More than 150 people turned out to help Congregation Kesser Israel cele-
brate the contributions and vibrancy Rabbi Kenneth and Aviel Brodkin have
shared with the local Jewish community during their 17 years in Portland.
The contributions of both were detailed in a May 25 Jewish Review article:
jewishportland.org/jewishreview/jr-stories/brodkin-farewell.
The June 19 dinner featured speakers praising many of those contri-
butions. Gifts from the congregation included a tribute video on USB, a
memory book, a challah board in the shape of Oregon and a photo of the
Oregon coast by congregant Elie Bulka. Rebbetzin Brodkin presented
gifts to several lay leaders.
“From the time that my family arrived in 2005, getting to know the Ke-
hilah (community), working together to move our shul, strengthen our
minyan, building our school and being together through simcha and sor-
row, serving as Rabbi of Kesser has been an exhilarating experience,” said
Rabbi Brodkin in farewell remarks. “… this Shul is a diverse community
with a great legacy and a bright future. Long before my arrival in Portland,
Kesser was a stronghold of unabashed love of Torah and mitzvot. And Rabbi Kenneth and Aviel Brodkin thank the community at a
Kesser will be a bastion of Torah and mitzvot long after my departure.” farewell dinner at the Mittleman Jewish Community Center.
2 Jewish Review June 22, 2022

Jewish Review June 22, 2022 3

At left, Elianna Beard shows off the National Cup she helped her Israeli team win last
month, scoring the first and winning goal for FC Kiryat Gat. Above, the team celebrates
victory in Israel’s National Cup Final.
PJA grad Eli Beard leads Israel team to national cup


BY DEBORAH MOON League with a team from Kazakhstan. I qualified for Champions League, the most

Portland Jewish Academy graduate made Aliyah in 2019, and this is my fourth prestigious club competition in European
Elianna Beard scored the winning goal in season playing in the Israeli league. If I soccer,” says Eli.
the final of the Women’s National Cup in stay one more year in Israel, I will then be Those games begin in mid-August, and
Israel. able to play with the National team, which Eli plans to be back with her team to com-
Her team, FC Kiryat Gat, won the Nation- would be a huge honor.” pete in the European competition. She is
al Cup final 2-0 on May 30. The daughter of Peter and Leslie currently in the United States. After visit-
“I scored the first goal,” says Eli. “When Beard, Eli graduated from PJA in 2010. ing Richmond, Va., she came to Portland
I look back on my career, it’s definitely one She attended St. Mary’s Academy for high this week to visit family and friends for a
of the most memorable moments for me.” school and graduated from Marquette Uni- week.
“I started playing soccer when I was versity in 2018. “Winning the league with my team was
8,” says Eli. She played club soccer in FC Kiryat Gat won the league and the incredible,” she says. “I’ve put in a lot of
Portland and then on her high school and Athena Cup, in addition to the National work to get to this level but really wouldn’t
college teams. “I started my profession- Cup this season. be here without all the support from back
al career in 2018 playing in Champions “Because we won the league, we have home.”
Scholar/athletes recognized


Two teen athletes received a Harry Glickman Scholar/Athlete
Award at the May 24 Mittleman Jewish Community Center Com-
munity Celebration.
This award was established in 2012 in honor of Harry Glickman,
z”l, the “father” of professional sports in Oregon. This year’s recip-
ients were Everest Sibony of Seaside and Lyla Paru of Beaverton.
Applicants were judged on academic and athletic achievement, as
well as their commitment to community service. Each winner will
receive a $500 scholarship for college.
Lyla Paru has been an all-star cheerleader at Oregon Dream Above, the Harry Glickman Award Committee
Teams since her freshman year of high school. Her team placed members Steve “Sudsy” Friedman, left, and
third in the nation in 2019 and second in the nation in 2021. Lyla Glen Coblens, right, present the Harry Glick- Everest Sibony
was also a member of Beaverton High School’s varsity sideline man Scholar/Athlete Award to Lyla Paru. with his award.
and competitive cheer teams. In 2020, she was the first cheerleader
from BHS to be named to the All-State team. basketball captain at Seaside High School. He was the 2020-2021
Lyla volunteered her time at the beginning of the pandemic to as- Unanimous League Most Valuable Player, and his team won the
sist more than 200 senior citizens in the metro area, helping them league championship three out of four years. He was a three-year
obtain Covid vaccine appointments. She is an active volunteer with soccer letterman and two-year state champion. He was also a two-
Guide Dogs for the Blind and Potluck in the Park. Lyla works as year golf letterman and league champion in golf.
both a lifeguard and youth gymnastics coach. She was a LINK crew His community service includes work with the Shape Up Across
member at BHS, mentoring incoming freshmen during her junior Oregon Exercise Program and the Tobacco/Alcohol/Drug Preven-
and senior year. She completed a rigorous course load at BHS in- tion Program. He was an Elks Hoops Shoot Regional Finalist. He
cluding five AP courses and six dual-credit college courses through is an Eagle Scout with the Boy Scouts. Everest was selected as
the BHS marketing pathway program and PCC. Lyla plans to attend SHS valedictorian and has a 4.0 GPA. He is student body president
the University of Oregon and major in advertising and business. and won the social studies Award of Excellence. He will attend the
Everest Sibony is a four-year basketball letterman and two-year University of Portland and play on the basketball team.
4 Jewish Review June 22, 2022

Portland athlete tapped for Israel softball team


BY DEBORAH MOON vendor at the Pike Street Mar-
Portland-area athlete Jose- ket. Records for all the family
phine “Jojo” Zober Appling were not well kept, though we
will be on the first Israel Soft- do know Benny’s brother, Mor-
ball Association 12U Israeli ris, and his family died in the
national team for one of the Holocaust.”
biggest international stages for Yarone followed Jojo’s growth
youth softball, the European in softball, and when he was
Massimo Romero Youth Tour- tasked with recruiting Ameri-
nament in Italy. can players for the Israel team,
An event of the World Baseball he invited her to join the team.
Softball Confederation Europe, Yarone serves as team manager
the prominent tournament is and David Siegel, of California,
the European championship for is the team coach.
softball players 13 and under. Currently, the team meets
Team Israel includes players Monday evenings on Zoom.
of Israeli citizenship and U.S.- They will be in Italy for 10
born players with Jewish or days in August and will be able
Israeli heritage. to practice together before the
“We are excited to have as- tournament begins. The 2022
sembled the first 12U Israel Jojo Zober Appling will play on the first-ever Israeli team to compete EMRYT Tournament will take
National Softball Team ever to at the 12U level in the European Cup for youth softball players. place Aug. 10-13, 2022.
compete at the EMRYT tour- she is a passionate player who rael team organizer. Early in Initially, they turned down
nament in Italy this summer,” thrives on the camaraderie of the pandemic, JoJo Zober Ap- the offer because as a sin-
says ISA Executive Director her softball sisters. She will pling was attending a virtual gle mom, Elle felt the family
Ami Baran. ISA is the gov- join Team Israel at pitcher, first class presented by Monica could not afford it. But ISA
erning body of all organized base and anywhere else her Cecilia Abbott, an American has organized a fundraising
softball in Israel. “For decades, team needs her. She is looking professional softball player and campaign to help cover travel
we have worked to build Isra- forward to learning some new silver medal-winning Team expenses for those players who
el’s youth program, and it is cheers in Hebrew. USA Olympian. Yarone Zober cannot afford it: my.jnf.org/
international opportunities like “I’m really excited to repre- of Philadelphia saw the Zober team-israel-softball.
these that help to establish our sent strong Jewish women and name on the Zoom screen, and Jojo is excited to play along-
country as a true competitor on show my passion for softball,” the two families connected. side girls from Israel and is ex-
the softball field.” says Jojo. Elle says she is not sure how cited to meet people from other
Jojo joined her first Little The daughter of Elle Zober, the two Zober branches are re- countries.
League team in 2018. She Jojo’s Hebrew name is Rachel lated, but she is convinced they “The world is huge, and you
earned a spot on the All Star bat Esther, for Elle’s Aunt Ro- are. She shared the origins of can have a lasting impact when
team two years in a row and berta, who passed away shortly the West Coast branch of the you meet other people,” says Elle
was the MVP on her travel before Jojo was born. Her nam- family: “My great-grandfather, of the international tournament.
team for the past three seasons. ing was at Congregation Neveh Benjamin Zober, and his wife, Elle is very proud of her
Her favorite quote is from “A Shalom. Elle, Jojo and brother Pauline, came to America from daughter, and she’s not alone.
League of Their Own”: “The Stockton live in Aloha. Brerpe, Russia, in 1913 as part “My grandparents were huge
hard is what makes it great...” It was the family’s uncommon of a deal where my Great Aunt Dodgers fans, and I know they
Jojo is currently a member name, Zober, that first brought Sarah Zober was a mail-order would be so proud of Jojo,”
of Silver Bullets Larson 12U; Jojo to the attention of the Is- bride. Benny was a pushcart says Elle.
Beth Israel to host guest clergy from Israel and East Coast

This summer, Congregation Beth Israel will welcome two Cantor Marshall Portnoy as he leads
renowned guest clergy to the bimah for Friday night services. the Kabbalat Shabbat service with Rabbi
Rabbi Galit Cohen-Kedem is coming Michael Cahana.
from Israel to join CBI at 6 pm on June Cantor Portnoy is the cantor emeritus of
24. Her talk is entitled “Your Mother is a Main Line Reform Temple in Wynnewood,
WHAT? – Being a female Reform Rabbi Pa. He is also adjunct instructor of art histo-
in Israel (and why does this affect you).” ry at the Barnes Foundation in Philadelphia,
Rabbi Cohen-Kedem is the spiritual leader and instructor of Hebrew, Judaica, music the-
of Kehillat Kodesh v’Hol, a member congre- ory and art history at the Main Line Classical
gation of the Israel Movement for Reform Academy in Bryn Mawr. A graduate of Yale,
and Progressive Judaism, in Holon, Israel. Cantor Portnoy was invested both by the Jewish Theological Sem-
She founded the congregation alongside a inary and the Hebrew Union College. His two-volume work, The
unique educational track of more than 200 Art of Cantillation, now in its third edition, has for more than 20
students aged 3-13. Rabbi Galit appreciates humor and creativity years brought the skill and the joy of reading Torah and Haftarah
as spiritual tools to grow and change the world. to tens of thousands throughout the globe. CBI uses his book for
The following Friday, July 1, also at 6 pm, CBI will welcome adult b’nei mitzvah and other trope classes.
Jewish Review June 22, 2022 5

Portland Jewish Academy Principal Merrill Hendin, right, applauds the school's biggest graduating class.
33 graduate from Portland Jewish Academy



BY MERRILL HENDIN repair, tikkun, of making this world a better, safer, more peaceful
Every year, we reflect on time as we prepare to graduate a new and just place for all.
class of Portland Jewish Academy students. As a Jewish commu- You and your middle school classmates packed 154 bags of food
nity, we mark time with a blessing, acknowledging and showing for the Portland Backpack project and wrote notes of cheer to each
gratitude for the gift of arriving at this sacred and special time in child who will receive a bag. Through your capstone projects, you
our lives – shehecheyanu, v’kiyemanu, v’higiyanu lazman hazeh. have researched and educated, become advocates and activists. Your
This year’s graduating class of 33 unique and wonderful students, projects include work in the areas of preservation of nature and en-
our largest class in many years, shared their voices in a variety of vironmental causes; food insecurity both locally and internationally;
ways as they reflected at graduation on their time at PJA. Some of neurodiversity; children’s cancer and other illnesses; support for
these students have been with us since they were 2, while others those in the local, national and worldwide Jewish community; ref-
joined for middle school amidst a worldwide pandemic. All of these ugee relief, health and well-being; animal welfare; genocide educa-
students formed a beautiful kehillah (community) of school leaders tion and relief; support for the houseless; and education and greater
who will go on to pursue their gifts and bring light into our world. awareness in the area of gender diversity.
We celebrate our graduates for the beautiful people they are, con- We learn in Pirkei Avot, The Ethics of our Sages: Lo alecha ham-
gratulate them for the work they have done up to this point and the lacha ligmor, v’lo atah ben chorin l’hibatel mimena – You are not
hope that they can advocate for a world more just and peaceful. expected to complete the task, but neither are you free to avoid
Below are some of the words I shared with our graduates at this it. You have grown up hearing this quote, singing this song and
year’s ceremony: learning through action and study that it is a Jewish value to make
Whether you have been here since you were tiny or joined the the world better.
class somewhere along the way, you have all added to the mosaic We know that you will take the values imprinted on you from your
of this wonderful class. As our largest graduating class, you have homes and years of learning at PJA and continue to do what it takes
truly become our beloved school leaders. to advocate and work for the things that are important to you, things
Over these years at PJA, a deep sense of Jewish learning, tradi- that will make this world better for you and future generations.
tion and values have been instilled in you. Through your learning, Merrill Hendin is the principal of Portland Jewish Academy, a
you have become workers for the world charged with the task of community day school offering preschool through eighth grade.
Marching with Pride




















People representing PDX Hillel, Portland Jewish Academy, Beth Isra-
el, Neveh Shalom, Kol Ami, P'nai Or and TischPDX marched togeth-
er in the June 19 Portland Pride Parade. In person for the first time
since 2019, the parade drew thousands marching from the North
Park Blocks to Waterfront Park to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community.
6 Jewish Review June 22, 2022

Jeanine Semon: Creativity still flowing at 92


BY SYDNEY CLEVENGER
When Jeanine Semon’s husband, Ed, used to leave for work ev-
ery morning around 7:30 am, he would advise her to stay off the
phone until after noon.
“That’s all he’d say,” says Jeanine, with a chuckle. “He knew my
high-energy painting time was 9:00 in the morning. And then after
12:30, he knew I’d painted. And he was right.”
Ed Semon recently passed (April 25, 2022), but even while griev-
ing, Jeanine can still feel his quiet support in her artistic endeavors.
“I’ve been painting for more than 65 years,” says Jeanine. “In all
that time, Ed never had an opinion, a preference about my work,
neither criticism nor compliments. All he did was go along with
what I wanted, and he was always there to help with the children or
cooking or whatever I needed, whether it was driving the car to New
Mexico and West Virginia to show and teach, or to art museums and
galleries in Chicago and Madison. He was a wonderful man.”
Jeanine Gassman grew up in Portage, Wis. After a year at the
University of Wisconsin, she attended Parsons School of Design in
New York. Disappointed in her New York choice, Jeanine returned
to Milwaukee, taking art classes at the two arts schools available.
There Jeanine met Ed Semon. They married and had two boys,
Bruce and Jesse. Later, daughter Betsy would follow.
When she was 26, Jeanine took her young sons to the Milwaukee
Jewish Community Center, which had an art show.
“I looked at the paintings and was electrified,” says Jeanine. Ask-
ing about the art she learned there was an art class on Wednesday Jeanine Semon in front of one of her paintings.
nights. “I said, ‘That sounds perfect.’ The following Wednesday, I In May, Jeanine’s work was displayed outside the Manor’s May
was in that class, and from there I never stopped painting.” Café, and she is considering teaching a class for residents. She is
Initially, Jeanine concentrated on Wisconsin landscapes. She writing her third book about art. Several large canvasses in her
grew to love the Native American philosophy of nature and its apartment display sketches of emerging scenes, some in colors she
respect for creatures and trees. She made jewelry and learned has never tried before. She is hoping to exhibit her work soon at the
stained glass. She began to exhibit her work and taught art classes Hillsdale library, since her first exhibit was in her hometown library.
in Menomonee Falls, Wis.; Phoenix, Ariz.; and Rome, Italy. “This one is a series on creation,” says Jeanine, unrolling a set
Jeanine describes her work as “healing art,” images that “give of five prints. “It is interesting because I discovered something
joy, comfort and make you feel good.” A friend undergoing che- psychologically about myself. Every one of these paintings has an
motherapy set up Jeanine’s dolphin prints in her treatment room exit. There’s a place to go out. … these guys are coming out of the
for comfort. The hospital in Menomenee Falls, where she and Ed water and they’re floating, and they can get out … these characters
raised their family, has Jeanine’s paintings on its walls. started as horses and as they migrated to the sides of the frame,
When Betsy was in school, Jeanine returned to the University of becoming a different sort of water-sky creature.”
Wisconsin and graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts at age 48. “They represent passages and freedom to me,” she says of the
Ed taught school and authored books. The couple rented space in series.
Oregon many winters to visit Betsy, who worked at KEX Radio in Jeanine is on a brief painting hiatus while she mourns Ed. But she
Portland. During one of their stays, Ed suffered a stroke, and the wants people to know that ideas don’t have an age limit.
pair moved to an assisted living facility. Several years ago, Jeanine “I think people ought to know that when you’re 92, creativity is still
and Ed moved to Rose Schnitzer Manor at Cedar Sinai Park. coming,” she says. “When Ed was sleeping, I had so many ideas in
“There are a lot of good, interesting people here and wonderful ac- the evening. I think it’s healthy to see that older people can achieve.”
tivities,” says Jeanine. “I am a people person; that’s why I live here.” Find her books on amazon.com or jeaninesdream.com/.
Artists react to Judy Chicago exhibit on July 12


On July 12, three Jewish artists will dis- Family Foundation” remains at the museum
cuss their reaction to the work of Judy Chi- through Sept. 23. The exhibit traces Judy OJMCHE expands hours,
cago, the subject of the current exhibit at Chicago’s development as an artist and adds free first Saturdays
the Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Jewish woman across six decades, from her The Oregon Jewish Museum and
Holocaust Education. early formal vocabulary of geometric color Center for Holocaust Education is
“In Conversation, A Response to the Leg- abstraction and groundbreaking work with once again open on Sundays. Mu-
acy of Judy Chicago” will be an in-person pyrotechnics to the powerful explorations seum hours are Wednesday-Sunday
event in OJMCHE’s auditorium at 7 pm, of self-identity, the politics of gender and from 11 am to 4 pm.
July 12. Artists Sarah Diver, Shelley Jordon her personal formative experiences. This summer, admission is free the
and Sarah Horowitz will share their reac- Tickets are $8 members, $10 nonmem- first Saturday of each month. Up-
tions to the 35 pieces in the exhibit. bers and $5 students and are available coming free Saturdays include July 2
“Turning Inward, Judy Chicago, From at ojmche.org/events/in-conversation-a- and Aug. 6.
the Collection of Jordan Schnitzer and His response-to-the-legacy-of-judy-chicago/.
Jewish Review June 22, 2022 7

JFGP ANNUAL MEETING (continued from page 1)

Outgoing JFGP will give all the community’s
Board Chair Lauren Jewish organizations the data
Goldstein accepts they need “to invest in a com-
a gift of art. Marc munity that will be thriving.”
Blattner, right, The Jewish Federation has con-
read from artist tracted with the Cohen Center
Eddy Shuldman’s at Brandeis University to per-
description. The form the study, looking at the
hamsah symbolizes Jewish community from South-
unity, and made west Washington down to Lane
symetrically also County. This will be the most
shows balance. comprehensive scientific study
The pomegranate ever conducted of our Jewish
seeds represent the community.
613 mitzvot of the
Torah. The dichro- The meeting celebrated Gold-
ic beads framing stein’s leadership over three
the arch represent challenging years.
sparks of light. “I cannot express the incredi-
ble role Lauren played in both
convening our community
and helping it move forward,”
wrote JFGP President and CEO
Marc Blattner in his weekly
email after the meeting.
Mindy Zeitzer was introduced
The JFGP is funding the 2022 Greater Portland as the new chair of the Federa-
Jewish Community Study conducted by the Co- tion board, the fifth woman to
hen Center at Brandeis University. The random lead Federation over the past
survey will begin after the holidays. This will be century. Zeitzer is a past chair
the most comprehensive, scientific study ever of the Federation’s campaign
conducted of our Jewish community. and allocations committees.
PHOTOS BY VICTOR PARU
Incoming JFGP board chair Mindy Zeitzer with Federation board members
her husband, Mark, and their sons, Ezra and Ari, completing their terms were
right. Jack Birnbach, Karen Blauer,
In-Person Schmoozing! Ted Nelson and Ed Tonkin.
Craig Berne, Christie Moore
Caron Blau and Jeffrey Weitz joined the
Rothstein board.
greets Lora The evening also featured the
Meyer and presentation of the Laurie Ro-
Karen Blauer goway Outstanding Jewish Pro-
as they arrive fessional Award to Missy Fry, a
Missy Fry, a behavioral health social worker for at the annual behavioral health social worker
Jewish Family & Child Service, accepts the 8th meeting. at Jewish Family and Child
Laurie Rogoway Outstanding Jewish Profession- Service. Mayah Greenfield and
al Award from Vice-Chair Jodi Fried and Chair Rabbi Eve
Eliana Temkin (at podium). “This year, we had Posen and Ike Salinsky each received an
seven strong nominations, testimony to our com- Jenn Direc- $1800 college scholarship from
munity’s cadre of dedicated, passionate profes- tor Knudsen the Lillian and Gilbert Sussman
sionals,” said Temkin. enjoy a nosh Fund.
“This year, our unrestricted
before the annual campaign increased by
meeting 5 percent, and we raised in
begins.
excess of $400,000 for our
From left, Ukraine Fund. Together, our
Judy Mar- community generously con-
gles, Gail tributed $4.2 million,” wrote
Mandel, Blattner, thanking Campaign
Marni Glick Co-Chairs Ted Nelson and Jess
and Hank Hilbert, and everyone who do-
Sussman selection committee chair Richard Kaplan nated. See stories on page 9
Meyer presents an award certificate to Ike Salin- enjoy an about how some of those funds
sky. Mayah Greenfield also received the $1,800 in-person have been allocated to meet
scholarship from the Sussman Fund. chat. needs locally and in Israel.
8 Jewish Review June 22, 2022

Federation funds projects in Israel

For the 2022-23 fiscal year, the Jew- tion for 16 parents and 22 children.
ish Federation of Greater Portland ERAN provides mental health
granted $115,000 to 11 organizations first aid to all residents of Israel in
that provide social services in Israel. emotional distress via the telephone,
“No funding from the Jewish mobile phone and the Internet free
Federation goes to fund the Israeli of charge, anonymously and con-
government, nor do any dollars fund fidentially. ERAN operates 13
projects ‘over the Green Line,’” em- branches across Israel. Our funding
phasizes JFGP president and CEO will support ongoing training for
Marc Blattner. volunteers in multiple branches.
This oversized “check” for $4.2 million from the Jewish The Overseas Special Projects Hasharon Sexual Assault Crisis
Federation of Greater Portland to the Jewish community grants are made to organizations Center provides practical and emo-
was on display at JFGP’s 102nd Annual Meeting. with smaller budgets (less than $10 tional support to survivors of sexual
million are given preference). Grants violence and their non-offending
Federation allocates funds range from $5,000 to $20,000. The acquaintances and strives through
grants support projects that aid di-
education and outreach to create so-
to 18 local organizations verse populations including Jewish cial change to end sexual violence
and Arab students in remote commu-
in Israel. In 2021, 8,500 individuals
The Jewish Federation of Greater Portland has provided nities, special needs children, at-risk accessed the center’s services.
funding for 18 local organizations for fiscal year 2022-23. children, Holocaust survivors, un- Ma’avarim (passageways, cross-
For the past eight months, the dedicated volunteer lead- derprivileged Ethiopian Jewish fam- ings or transitions) is a trans-led
ers on the JFGP Allocations Committee have met to dis- ilies, trans individuals and survivors organization by and for the Israeli
cuss, review, evaluate and make very difficult decisions of sexual violence. They also support trans community. Our funding for
on how to allocate finite financial resources. This year, mental health programs, STEM ed- Ma’avarim in partnership with Is-
due to the success of the annual campaign, the committee ucation and multi-cultural education. rael Gay Youth will be used for an
was able to allocate 5 percent more than last year. Eight past OSP recipients received Employment Assistance Coordina-
The committee used the additional $62,000 to provide grants for projects again this year: tor position for the trans communi-
increased funding to four agencies: Ofanim provides extracurricular ty, employer competence training,
Cedar Sinai Park – Increased funds will help with contin- enrichment in science, technology, job seeker application assistance
ued and increased need for PPE supplies, challenges relat- engineering and math (STEM) to and coaching.
ed to recruiting and retaining nursing staff, and the financial children living in peripheral com- Three organizations received
impact from people not moving in during the pandemic. munities in northern and southern grants for the first time:
Jewish Family & Child Service – Increased funding will Israel – Jewish and Arab, religious Mabat leads transformative pro-
help JFCS address increased demand for mental health and secular, native born and new grams on Israeli college campuses
support and emergency financial/food assistance. immigrants. Portland supports three developing multi-cultural aware-
Mittleman Jewish Community Center – During the groups in Kiryat Malachi. ness, countering prejudice and
pandemic, the MJCC had closings mandated by the Or- Neve Michael is a safe haven for racism, and promoting diversity
egon Health Authority, membership losses (now growing over 280 needy children (ages 5 to and co-existence. Jewish and Arab
again) and hiring challenges. Funding will help the MJCC 18 from all over Israel) who are at students and alumni engage in year-
as they resume more programs and services. risk and whose biological parents long accredited leadership seminars
Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Edu- can no longer care for them. Our and community volunteering. Our
cation – With the increase in antisemitism and hate crimes, funding will purchase “Personal funding will support capacity-build-
more funding will assist OJMCHE in providing critically Arrival Packages” for children who ing for Mabat’s Alumni Network.
needed community education and teacher training. arrive at the center. Shira Banki’s Way is named after
This year, 14 organizations received funding similar to Krembo Wings is Israel’s only 16-year-old Shira Banki, who was
last year. Agencies whose funding remained stable were all-inclusive youth movement. It stabbed to death in 2015 by an ul-
B’nai B’rith Camp, NCSY, Chabad of Northeast, Chabad of brings children with special needs tra-Orthodox man during the Gay
Hillsboro, Portland Kollel, Greater Portland Hillel, Oregon together with able-bodied peers. Pride Parade in Jerusalem. We fund the
Hillel, Chabad Reed, Moishe House, OneTable, Maayan Our funding will support the opera- “Teachers’ Lounge Tel Aviv-Jaffa.”
Torah Day School, Maimonides Jewish Day School, Port- tions of Krembo Wing’s new branch This program creates encounters
land Jewish Academy and TIVNU: Building Justice. in Beit Shemesh, the first chapter to between Jewish and Arab educa-
“We recognize and appreciate the incredible work of every serve ultra-Orthodox children. tors to foster a working relationship
Jewish organization in town – and each is deserving of more Foundation for the Welfare of between them. In addition we fund
funds,” says JFGP CEO Marc Blattner. “Limited financial Holocaust Victims helps survivors. curriculum to teach values of toler-
resources, however, require difficult leadership decisions.” There are 168,500 survivors living ance and acceptance in schools.
“I am so proud of our Allocations Committee and their in Israel today – 25 percent of whom Feuerstein Institute teaches people
thoughtful deliberations,” says Blattner. “Among many are living in poverty. Our funding of all ages, backgrounds and levels
competing priorities, the committee focused on the impacts will provide financial assistance to of ability how to think, learn and
of the pandemic and strengthening organizations as they 100 vulnerable Holocaust survivors. function better. Portland is support-
come out of it. They also looked at special circumstances Beit Yossi provides a therapeutic ing “Aim Higher,” a program that
that may require more funding for an organization.” home and intervention for severely helps high-potential Israelis from
The JFGP Annual Report will be published in late underprivileged Ethiopian Jewish the Ethiopian community and the
August, providing full details on how every dollar was families in Ashdod. Our funding socio-economic periphery pursue
allocated. will support therapeutic interven- their goals in higher education.
Jewish Review June 22, 2022 9

Chaplain's Corner



Broken but Blessed



The following is the invocation that Rabbi
Barry Cohen shared at this year’s Jewish Fed-
eration of Greater Portland annual meeting on
Published biweekly by June 13. Rabbi Barry
Jewish Federation of Cohen is the
Greater Portland What a year we just experienced. We made it Jewish commu-
9900 SW Greenburg Road, through Covid, year two. nity chaplain
Suite 220 I have often felt a range of conflicting emotions of the Greater
Tigard, OR 97223 simultaneously: anger, sadness, helplessness, hope- Portland area.
503-245-6219 lessness, compassion fatigue, regret … but also chaplain@
JewishPortland.org relief, joy, hope, compassion, love, reassurance. jewishportland.org
But these past weeks put me in a downward spi-
facebook.com/JewishPDX ral. What I have been feeling, I could not articu- If we see only the worst, it
instagram.com/ late. It was complicated and nuanced.
jewishfederationpdx/ When I was taking part in my chaplaincy resi- destroys our capacity to do
dency in the Chicago burbs, our supervisor sent
Editor us to “the feeling wheel” when we struggled to something.
Deborah Moon identify our emotions. I could not find what I on a Moving Train. (Of note: he was a World War
[email protected] have been feeling on this feeling wheel, despite II Air Force bombardier.)
that the wheel lists more than 150 emotions.
I recently read an article by Dahlia Lithwick “To be hopeful in bad times is not just foolishly
Circulation on Slate.com, “Why Politics is Both the Poison romantic. It is based on the fact that human his-
To receive the Jewish and the Cure.” She found the word that perfectly tory is a history not only of cruelty, but also of
Review in your email inbox, describes what I have been feeling, and what I compassion, sacrifice, courage, kindness. What
email your name and email wager many of us have been feeling. we choose to emphasize in this complex histo-
address to Is this word in English? No. German? French? ry will determine our lives. If we see only the
[email protected] Russian? No. This word is from arguably the worst, it destroys our capacity to do something.
world’s most expressive language: Yiddish. The If we remember those times and places ... where
OPINIONS printed in the word I have been feeling is tzebrokhnkayt. This is people have behaved magnificently, this gives us
Jewish Review do not roughly translated as “broken but blessed.” the energy to act. … The future is an infinite suc-
necessarily reflect those We feel this when we make it to another day, cession of presents, and to live now as we think
of the Jewish Review, but at the same time admit that everything is not human beings should live, in defiance of all that
the Jewish Federation OK. As we feel broken-heartedness, we carry our is bad around us, is itself a marvelous victory.”
of Greater Portland, its shattered experiences and emotions with us. But This past year, in too many of our “presents,”
governing board or the staffs this carrying gives us strength. we felt tzebrokhnkayt. Despite the pain, the trag-
edy, the fear, the brokenness, we recovered. We
of either the newspaper or Rabbi Irwin Keller teaches: healed. We helped one another. We shared com-
“We carry (our) brokenness with us, just as
the Federation. the Children of Israel in the desert carried in the passion, strength and love. Through these “pres-
Next issues Holy Ark not only the Tablets of the Covenant, ents,” we have obtained the wisdom that we are
still allowed to hope … that it is our obligation
but also the Tablets of the Covenant that Moses
to hope.
Issue date Deadline shattered when he came down the mountain. We In the coming months, we may continue to
each carry our shattered pieces with us.”
In so doing, we discover, we earn within feel tzebrokhnkayt. But let’s embrace that emo-
July 6 June 29 tzebrokhnkayt a sense of wisdom. We exist in a tion and realize it is the key to navigating these
state of not needing a quick fix but needing to be challenging times to make our community even
July 20 July 14 honored; and as we are honored, we take up the stronger, more vibrant, interconnected and inter-
work of healing. dependent.
Aug. 3 July 28 Lithwick ended her words by quoting the auto- Cain y’hi ratzon.
biography of Howard Zinn, You Can’t Be Neutral So may this be.
Jobs board



TIVNU: Gap Year Resident Advisors perform a variety of organizational support tasks. For full job de-
Tivnu: Building Justice is looking for one caring, organized and scription, see tivnu.org/careers/.
dedicated individual to complete our Jewish social justice gap year JEWISH CAREER HUB
staff team for 2022-23. The Tivnu Gap Year Resident Advisors live The Jewish Federation of Greater Portland’s job board for the
on site in Portland with Gap Year participants (aged 17-20), mentor ongoing listing of job opportunities in the Jewish community cur-
program participants in formal and informal settings, contribute rently features 16 Jewish job openings. See all of the openings at
to creating an atmosphere of personal and communal growth, and jewishportland.org/ourcommunity/jewish-jobs.
10 Jewish Review June 22, 2022

Two Portlanders tapped for Wisdom Fellowship


Two Portlanders, Beth Israel bringing,” says Fugman. “I ap-
Executive Director Josh Kash- plied to the JWF so that I could
insky and TischPDX Executive do some of my own learning for
Director Eleyna Fugman, are rejuvenation and inspiration,
among the 41 Jewish Wisdom and I also plan to transfer some
Fellows announced June 14 by of my learnings this summer
Hadar. directly to our amitim (fellows)
Hadar is an educational insti- and alumni at TischPDX in the
tution that seeks to empower fall curriculum.”
a generation of Jews to create Prior to founding of Tisch
and sustain vibrant, practicing, PDX, Fugman spent three
egalitarian communities of To- years as an engagement and
rah learning, prayer and service. Eleyna Fugman Josh Kashinksy outreach manager at Congrega-
Hadar’s Jewish Wisdom Fel- tion Shaarie Torah in Portland.
lowship is a collective learning ing with a diverse group of ex- Josh is passionate about creat- Her other affiliations include
and thought leadership project ecutives and with some incred- ing transformative shared ex- co-founder of The Alberta Shul,
for Jewish professionals. Over ible Jewish educators,” says periences that have the power a local “shul without walls,”
five weeks, cohorts of Jewish Kashinsky. “I find the more that to make the world better. His and co-founder of SURJ PDX
professionals, executives and I can ground my work in Jewish favorite role is that of husband (Showing up for Racial Jus-
clergy will engage with some values and the rich tapestry of and father. tice), an organization educat-
of the most pressing social, Jewish tradition, the stronger Fugman will be in the Jewish ing and activating other white
moral and spiritual questions the work is. I’m thankful that Professional Cohort. She is the people to challenge racism.
confronting our communities the CBI community is support- co-founder and co-executive She has also served on local
and the world.⁠⁠ ive of continued professional director of TischPDX. She boards of OPAL Environmental
“I am pleased to be a part of growth and learning for myself co-founded TischPDX in 2018 Justice and the Institute for Ju-
Hadar’s JWF this year,” says and our staff.” as a space for and by Jews who daic Studies, where she served
Fugman, who studied at Hadar Before joining Congrega- have been historically margin- as board president from 2017-
in 2015. “I was impressed by tion Beth Israel, Kashinsky alized in Jewish communal life, 2019. She received her B.A.
their curriculum and by the fact had worked at both JCCs and like herself, focused on engage- from Brown University.
that they were able to make Tal- Hillels. He has also worked ment and leadership develop- “Our Jewish Wisdom Fel-
mud learning accessible to me professionally as a theater di- ment. lows will study and work to-
as a queer Jewish woman not rector and producer. A graduate “One of our goals at Tisch gether over the next several
raised with a Jewish education of UCSB and Sarah Lawrence PDX is to continue making re- weeks, and we are confident
and with limited Hebrew.” College, Josh grew up in the sources like Hadar available to that their collected wisdom
Kashinsky will be part of the Silicon Valley and enjoys being Jews like myself, who are from will help guide all of us into
Executive Cohort. back on the West Coast after a marginalized communities and/ the future,” says the Hadar an-
“I’m looking forward to study- decade living in the Northeast. or had very little Jewish up- nouncement.

June 30: TischPDX June 24: Young adult July 10: Cantor Vitells receives Nemer Award
applications due Pride Shabbat dinner The Harry R. Nemer Award dinner honoring Cantor Emeritus
Diverse Jews in their 20s-40s Young adults are invited to Aaron Vitells will be 5-9 pm, July 10, at Congregation Shaarie
Torah, 920 NW 25th Ave., Portland.
who are engaging their peers join a welcoming, LGBTQ+ Each year, the Shaarie Torah Men’s Club presents the Nemer
in ‘Jew-ish’ programming, art friendly Pride Shabbat dinner Award to someone who has left a mark on and given back to the
and activities are invited to at 6 pm, June 24, at the Eastside Shaarie Torah community. The Men’s Club will honor Cantor
apply for the next cohort of Jewish Commons. OneTable Vitells for “all of his hard work and energy to make CST a more

TischPDX by 5 pm, June 30. host Angel (they/them) presents joyous, open and thriving community.”
The 10-16 month program is the free event, “New Song – A As he prepared to retire last November, Cantor Vitells reflected
for young Jewish community Queer-Led Learning Shabbat.” on a life that has been spiritual, unconventional and occasional-
builders, organizers, artists, “Come join us! My name is ly harrowing. Vitells was raised on a farming cooperative in Beit
hosts, and conveners who are Angel, I’m a trans Jew with Shearim, Israel. He served in combat in the Golan Heights during
unaffiliated with established a background of 15 years of the Yom Kippur War. He graduated from medical school with a
Jewish community and interest- grassroots organizing and edu- specialty in emergency medicine. He met his American-born wife,
ed in bolstering their leadership cation,” writes Angel. “Togeth- Diane, at a Paris conference devoted to Indian traditions and phi-
capacity in bringing together er with my co-organizer, Erez, losophy. After several years in Israel, they moved to the United
Jews across Portland. The cohort we envision a regular Shabbat States, where he worked in hospital emergency departments and
meets monthly for Torah study, event in Portland that balan- began studying with a cantor.
exploration of Jewish yearly ces reverence for tradition with Vitells stepped into the cantor’s role at Shaarie Torah in the mid-

cycles and skills workshops a supportive, fun learning envi- 1990s when his predecessor became ill and was unable to perform
within a framework of anti- ronment. We welcome Jews of the Passover services. Asked to lead the High Holiday services also,
oppression theory and practice. all backgrounds and experience.” he spent the summer studying the prayers while still performing his
For a link to the application or For questions, email abbie@ medical duties. He retired as a doctor in 2017 and as cantor 2021.
questions, email Derekh Travers OneTable.org. RSVP at dinners. Tickets are $54 per person. RSVP before June 28 at tinyurl.com/
at [email protected]. onetable.org/landing/Portland nemerdinner2022.
Jewish Review June 22, 2022 11

July 10: Judaism and the Psychedelic Renaissance Anniversary
On July 10, Co/Lab will host “Judaism and the The July 10 event will include a history of psy-
Psychedelic Renaissance: A Portland Gathering,” chedelics in Judaism from Madison Margolin, a
10 am-6 pm, at the Eastside Jewish Commons. leading figure in the Jewish psychedelic move-
“What does it mean to be a psychedelic Jew? ment and author of the Times of Israel article
To me that’s an exciting question. An important “Was Moses Tripping When He Saw the Burn-
question – and one we’re going to explore for the ing Bush?” Psychedelic guides will be on hand
first time as a community here in Portland,” says to share what guided psychedelic therapy might
Co/Lab founder Rabbi Josh Rose of the in-per- look like and feel like. And Jon Dennis, a prom-
son gathering. inent Oregon lawyer and activist in the psyche-
“Even five years ago the question would have delic field, will talk about Oregon’s central role
sounded ridiculous,” he says. “But psychedelics in the psychedelic renaissance.
have huge implications for our understanding of An Oregon measure on therapeutic psilocybin
spiritual states and for the treatment of trauma and use passed in November 2021 and takes effect Albert & Esther Menashe
depression. The Jewish community should ap- in 2023. The July 10 program will explore the Albert and Esther Menashe
proach this with curiosity and open-mindedness.” impact of the new law on individuals who have celebrated their 50th wedding
Rabbi Zac Kamenetz, founder of Shefa: Jewish psychedelics experiences in a therapeutic con- anniversary on June 11, 2022.
Psychedelic Support, will text. The Jewish community has an opportunity The couple are members of
keynote the July 10 gather- to help them integrate these experiences and new Congregation Ahavath Achim.
ing in person. He sees great ideas into their Jewish lives and practices.
promise in the responsible “I want everyone to feel welcome at ‘Judaism
exploration of the nexus of and the Psychedelic Renaissance,’” says Rabbi
Judaism and psychedelics. Josh. “Jews with a traditional approach, secular
He has said, “(Psychedelics Jews, the psychedelically experienced and those
are) going to inspire a cre- who wouldn’t touch the stuff. Truly, it’s open to
ative, spiritual renaissance anyone who cares about Jewish ideas and has a
that puts the Jewish people Rabbi Kamenetz curious mind.”
back in touch with that burning core that sits at Tickets and more information are available at
the heart of our mystical tradition.” colabpdx.org/psychedelics. Tickets are $54.

Obituaries Online grief group to meet
Submit to:
[email protected]
ALVIN KLASS He interned at Los Angeles first Friday of each month
Alvin Manly Leon Klass, 90, County Harbor General Hos- Grief can feel so lonely. Jew- Barry Cohen. A third cohort of
of Canby, passed away June 2, pital, completed his residency ish Family & Child Service’s Walking Beside You will begin
2022, from complications of di- in ophthalmology at OHSU, clinicians acknowledge this in fall 2022.
abetes and congestive heart fail- and entered private practice in and are passionate about pro- Missy is facilitating Grief
ure. He is survived by his wife, Northwest Portland in 1968. viding community and connec- Connection and encourages all
Nancy; his children, Gregory, In 1989 he closed his practice tion around and through one’s comers to give it a try (registra-
Daniel (Iman), Kayla (David) to become the administrator of grieving process. Now, in addi- tion is not required).
and Leah (Keith); grandchild- the Teamsters Medical Center, tion to JFCS’ weekly Commu- “As human beings, we have
ren, Kamen Klass, Marli Klass, retiring in 1999. nity Connection Zoom-based a need to express our pain” in-
Lila Reich, Leila Klass and In 1978, Alvin’s sister intro- group, JFCS is providing Grief cluding grief, which has no cure,
Anisa Klass; great-granddaugh- duced him to Nancy. Alvin and Connection. This no-cost, drop- she says. She validates those
ter, Kyrie Klass; and nieces and Nancy were married 44 years. in group meets the first Friday experiencing any kind of loss:
nephews, Dana Schull (Dave), Alvin was active in the Wash- of every month. It provides an “There’s no wrong way to do
Mikel Lomsky (Amy) and Lee ington County Master Gardener opportunity for people to share this; there’s nothing wrong with
Vogt. He was preceded in death Program for many years receiv- their experience, learn from one you; this is a normal response
by his son, Bradley; and sister, ing the Master Gardener of the another, support others, or sim- to losing someone or something
Rhoda Lomsky. Year award twice for volunteer ply just attend and be present. that you love. … We may al-
Alvin was born Nov. 12, 1931, services. “Grief Connection creates an ways feel this wound internally,
to Joe and Rose Klass in Win- After retiring Alvin volun- opportunity for our community but it doesn’t mean that we will
nipeg, Manitoba, Canada. Af- teered with the Clackamas members to meet and engage feel broken externally forever.”
ter Alvin graduated from high County Money Management with others who they may not As one grief-processing
school the family moved to Program and the Lan Su Chi- know have shared experiences,” group participant shared,
Portland. He received his Cer- nese Garden. Alvin enjoyed says JFCS’ Clinical Director “When I’m in this group, I feel
tificate of Naturalization while reading, music, opera, traveling Douglass Ruth, LCSW, CCTP. completely connected to my-
serving in the U.S. Air Force and cooking. Grief Connection does not self. I know that others know
during the Korean War. A celebration of life will be substitute for Walking Be- what I’m going through.”
Alvin studied at Portland State held at a later date. In memory side You, a grief-processing For more information, con-
University and received his of Alvin, the family suggests a group that Missy Fry, LCSW, tact Missy Fry at MissyFry@
Doctor of Medicine from the donation be made to the Lan Su CAGCS, behavioral health so- jfcs-portland.org. For the Zoom
University of Oregon Medical Chinese Garden or a garden of cial worker, co-facilitated with link, visit jfcs-portland.org/
School, now OHSU, in 1963. your choice. community chaplain Rabbi grief-connection.
12 Jewish Review June 22, 2022