INSIDE
this
ISSUE
Shaarie
May 26, 2021 / Sivan 15, 5781 Volume 56, Issue 12 Torah
hires
Educators: Battle is between Rabbi
extremists and moderates Oren
– page 2
BY DEBORAH MOON Dignity Grows
Two integrated educational
programs in Israel shared views grant – page 2
on the lingering impact 11 days
of fierce fighting between Israel Women's Circle
and Hamas will have on those
working for a shared society. grants – page 4
Despite the ceasefire, the unrest
on both sides continues. Bench dedicated
Hand in Hand, which serves
more than 2,000 students (60% to MJCC staff's
Arab and 40% Jewish) in its heavy lifting – page 5
schools, offered a briefing May
20, just hours before Israel and
Hamas agreed to the Egyp- Students, staff and families at Hand in Hand schools work for Maayan Torah
tian-brokered ceasefire. Dror equality and a shared society for all Israeli citizens. The seven Hand hires principal,
Israel, which works to create a in Hand schools offer a fully integrated educational framework for
just and equal society through Arabs and Jews from preschool through grade 12. other staff – page 5
formal and informal education,
held a briefing May 19. “I describe it as a struggle between ChaiLight – page 6
“Many people see it as a strug-
gle between Jews and Arabs,” … the extremists trying to tear
said Hand in Hand CEO Dani Kollel future – page 7
Elazar. “I describe it as a strug- society apart and Jews and Arabs
gle between extremist groups – JFCS annual
on both sides, Arabs and Jews – who believe in a shared society.” meeting – page 7
and moderates. … Between the ~ Dani Elazar, CEO of Hand in Hand
See SHARED ISRAEL, page 6 The Power of
Rachel Nelson to receive Rogoway Award Cemetery Visits
BY DEBORAH MOON – page 8
The Laurie Rogoway Outstanding Jewish Profes-
sional Award will be presented formally to Rachel Deadlines – page 8
Nelson at the 101st Annual Meeting of the Jewish
Federation of Greater Portland. Jobs Board: Cedar
Following Laurie’s retirement from 30-year-plus
career as a Jewish communal professional, Feder- Sinai Park, Tivnu,
ation created this award to honor her dedication to
community and passion for Jewish life. The award BB Camp – page 9
recognizes a mid-career professional at Jewish
communal organization in Greater Portland. Shavuot Live at
“I’ve known Laurie most of my life,” says Ra-
chel, a Portland native, who worked with Laurie CSP – page 9
at Federation in 2013-14. “It’s such an inspiration
Eliana Temkin, right, makes a surprise home to get an award named after someone who gave Lifecycle &
presentation of the Laurie Rogoway Outstanding so much to our community.”
Jewish Professional Award to Rachel Nelson. See AWARD, page 7 obituaries – page 10
Shaarie Torah hires Rabbi Oren
BY DEBORAH MOON
Congregation Shaarie Torah
has hired Rabbi Gary Ezra
Oren to serve as the Conserva-
tive congregation’s senior rabbi
beginning July 1, 2021.
Rabbi Oren will become the
10th rabbi to serve the con-
gregation since it was founded
in 1905. He succeeds Rabbi
Joshua Rose, who announced Dignity Grows gets
in January 2020 that he planned grant, plans pack
to conclude his role as Shaarie
Torah rabbi in June of 2021. Dignity Grows, Inc., has
Ordained in 2008 from the awarded three chapters includ-
Ziegler School of Rabbinic Rabbi Gary Ezra Oren and his family, from left: son, Nadav, 12; ing Portland a grant to purchase
Studies, Rabbi Oren has led two wife, Sharone; and daughters, Kiwi, 14, and Ya’ara, 17. menstrual supplies for Dignity
large congregations in southern committee, the board, the staff its website, the rabbinic pro- Grows Totes. Dignity Totes
California, was executive di- and the many affi nity groups gram is dedicated to training hold a month’s supply of san-
rector of Hillel in San Diego, – feel like we found a very spe- Conservative rabbis who are itary pads and tampons, tooth-
and during the pandemic has cial rabbi who is just the right not only deeply versed in Jew- paste and a toothbrush, a bar of
served as a hospital chaplain spiritual leader for our shul. … ish texts and committed to Jew- soap, deodorant and shampoo.
in San Diego. Previously he Rabbi Oren is a person of depth ish traditional practice, but who Women’s Philanthropy of
was vice president of commu- and decency. In other words, a can transmit the beauty and Greater Portland created the
nity engagement at American mensch.” richness of Judaism to others. 15th chapter of Dignity Grows,
Jewish University/Dean of the That sentiment was echoed “I love that CST has a long a national nonprofi t launched
Whizin Center for Continuing by Anne LeVant Prahl, who history of independence,” says by the federation system’s Na-
Education and was on the fac- chaired the rabbinical search the rabbi. “I feel that CST is tional Women’s Philanthropy.
ulty at Ziegler. committee, which comprised ready to exercise that indepen- Chapters provide monthly per-
“I was drawn to CST because 13 members representing the dence to create a laboratory of sonal and menstrual hygiene
of the size and potential of the wide range of ages, stages and Jewish living in which we ex- products to women, girls and
congregation,” says Rabbi Oren. interests of the congregation. periment with all kinds of new individuals assigned female at
“I served two very large syna- “He felt very haimish modes of learning and praying. birth who cannot aff ord them.
gogues, where it was diffi cult (warm),” says Anne, noting I know that the framework of Among the first new chapters
for me to know all of the congre- he is very people-centered and traditional Judaism creates lives across the country, Portland,
gants. I thrive on relationships, connects well with young and of meaning and purpose. I hope Hartford and Phoenix were
and CST was the both the right old congregants alike and ev- to expand how folks experience selected to receive a portion of
size to know the community eryone in between. “He is real- the wisdom of our tradition in the national organization’s gen-
personally plus has the ability to ly perfect for us.” ways that they may have not yet erous @thepadproject grant.
welcome in some new folks.” Rabbi Oren’s willingness to encountered.” The three chapters also were
He adds that during the in- try new things combined with The rabbi was also impressed selected because they represent
terview process he discovered, his fi rm grounding in halacha that the leadership of the shul regionally diverse areas.
“The leadership and commu- and Torah make him perfect for made sure young people were On June 27, volunteers will
nity members were incredibly the congregation’s embrace of part of the process. gather to pack Dignity Totes for
thoughtful and kind. In the both tradition and modern fac- “I believe that our Torah must Outside In. (Two shifts 12:30-
world we live in, kindness is ets of Judaism, Anne says. be a Torah Chayim – a guide to 1:30 and 2-3 pm). Registration
no small thing. I believe our “At the Ziegler School, I was real life – and that the wisdom and masks will be required.
tradition is all about growing taught to think critically and gleaned from our ancient texts “Our focus for this pack being
our souls in order to refl ect really search for the underlying must manifest in the public the first that is open outside of
goodness and godliness into values that animate our To- square,” he says. “I can’t wait to Chapter members is to educate
our communities.” rah and tradition,” says Rabbi begin learning and getting active as many people as possible
The rabbi says moving to Port- Oren. “I was taught that master- with the CST community.” about Dignity Grows – who we
land is also a draw. The family ing our ancient sources is only Rabbi Oren will move to Port- are, period poverty, and ways
has vacationed here twice visit- one part of the process. … It land in July, with his family to get involved and spread the
ing sister-in-law Emly Oren, who is our job to apply the wisdom following in stages. In the fall, word,” says Wendy Kahn, the
was a founding resident of the of our tradition to real environ- his daughter, Kinkajou (Kiwi), Campaign and Women’s Philan-
Moishe House in SE Portland. ments in order to become God’s 14, will join him to start high thropy Director of the Jewish
“Rabbi Oren was a standout partners in continuing the work school, likely the Metropolitan Federation of Greater Portland.
among the 10-plus candidates of creation.” Learning Center. His wife, Sha- To learn more or volunteer –
we looked at over the course Zeigler was created to train a rone, and son Nadav, 12, will men and volunteers of all ages
of the many months of this new generation of Conserva- stay in San Diego until daugh- are welcome – email Wendy at
national search,” says CST tive rabbis to address the spir- ter, Ya’ara, 17, graduates from [email protected]
President Daniel Petcher. “All itual needs of a changing North high school next spring. or visit jewishportland.org/
those involved – the search American Jewry. According to dignitygrows.
2 Jewish Review May 26, 2021
2 0 2 1 A N N U A L M E E T I N G
A V I S I O N F O R O U R
S E C O N D C E N T U R Y
J O I N U S M O N D A Y , J U N E 1 4 T H A T 4 : 3 0
P M O N Z O O M
R E G I S T E R T O D A Y :
.l
W W W . J E W I S H P O R T L A N D . O R G / A N N U A L M E E T I N G
Jewish Review May 26, 2021 3
Women fund connections WOMEN’S GIVING CIRCLE GRANTS
The Women’s Giving Cir- "These grant
cle of the Jewish Federation
of Greater Portland granted proposals are from
$26,000 to nine organizations
to fund programs and initia- the community, by
tives that focus on women and
girls, justice and Jewish conti- the community and
nuity (see list below). (Women
and girls refers to all cisgender for the community."
women and girls, transgender
women and girls, and non-bina- ~ Jessica Zutz Hilbert,
ry people who are comfortable Giving Circle co-chair
in female-centered spaces.)
The circle’s 2021-2022 Jennifer Gwirtz in "Kol b'Isha." Photo by Chelsea Petrakis.
grant-making cycle was its great deal of thought “into the
fourth year of grant giving. In type of programming that will Hand2Mouth $1,000
its first three years, the giving most benefit their participants Provide seed money. Program still in development.
circle awarded 18 grants total- as we all make our way out of
ing $60,465, which included social distancing limitations Support to develop “Girls in Trouble: The Musical.” This
a single grant of $18,000 last and back into group happen- evening-length theatrical project is based around Alicia
year to the Jewish Greater ings.” Jo Rabins’ indie-folk song cycle, Girls in Trouble, a se-
Portland Together COVID-19 As it did its first two years, ries of songs about stories of women in the Torah.
Relief Fund after the pandemic the circle funded the Oregon The Alberta Shul $3,600
struck. Hillel Women’s Retreat. This General support for planning innovative and creative
Women’s Giving Circle is year, Hillel held a virtual retreat events for eastside, underserved young adult Jews with
chaired by Felicia Rosenthal but hopes to have the retreat a social justice lens.
and Jessica Zutz Hilbert and is onsite at BB Camp this coming Oregon NCSY $2,500
staffed by JFGP Campaign and year. Other programs funded Big Sister, Little Sister program at Camp Kesher with a
Women’s Philanthropy Direc- for 2021-22 are designed to focus on connecting and reconnecting post-pandemic/
tor Wendy Kahn, who also par- bring people together in a post-
ticipates in the Giving Circle. COVID world. in-person and rebuilding community.
“We feel like our entire Giving “I believe everyone is fo- Chabad Jewish Center Hillsboro $3,600
Circle navigated the uncertain- cused on community building, Support for Jewish Women’s Weekly Club & Rosh
ty around the year with poise, re-emerging and reconnecting,” Hodesh, which is the only source of Jewish connection
grace and a whole lot of fun,” says Wendy. in this geographical area of greater Portland.
says Jess. The circle also provided funds Congregation Shir Tikvah $2,000
The 17 women met virtually for two performance pieces. General support sponsor of “Kol b’ Isha,” performance
several times to review, dis- “We funded the performance of an original work by dancer Jennifer Gwirtz. The piece
cuss and fund a diverse array pieces because of the ‘wom- is a meditation on the older female voice, visibility and
of grants for upcoming pro- an’s narrative,’ ” says Wendy. silences through a dance-based exploration of Jewish
gramming. They navigated “Each program had a strong fe- female modesty practices.
the changing landscape of the male representation and brings
past year, which continued to women’s voices into the public TischPDX $5,000
evolve between February, when arena utilizing different artistic General support for Jewish Leadership Incubator pro-
proposals were submitted, and mediums. We are thrilled to be gram that trains and empowers younger Jews (approx.
May, when deliberations and able to be part of these artistic ages 22-44) who feel marginalized from the Jewish
decisions were made. Felicia endeavors.” community to re-envision themselves as leaders in our
and Jess both say the wom- The nine programs all seem community.
en were impressed with the likely to occur as limitations The Oregon Hillel Foundation $ 5,000
thoughtfulness around COVID ease and as we become re-ac- Fund annual Women’s Retreat with the University of
protocols that each of the pro- quainted with in-person expe- Oregon, Oregon State University and PDX Hillel Cam-
grams proposed to be ready for riences. puses.
either in-person or virtual pro- “We are probably most proud Mittleman Jewish Community Center $1,500
gramming depending on condi- that these grant proposals
tions at the time of the program. that we received are from the Initiate a program called “From Antiquity to Today: Are
“We were blown away by community, by the community we our mothers’ daughters?” for the Russian community.
all the stories shared with us and for the community,” says Congregation Neveh Shalom $1,800
during our conversations with Jess. “We know our dollars are Launch Women, Wisdom & Whiskey. A new program
grant applicants as to how they going to be super impactful in modeled on the successful “Dad’s Night Out.” The focus
ever so creatively pivoted to getting these projects off the will be to partner with female clergy throughout Greater
function throughout the pan- ground, and we are sincerely Portland to for a monthly one-hour social and learning
demic,” says Felicia. She adds looking forward to watching opportunity that will be open community-wide.
that applicants had also put a that happen.”
4 Jewish Review May 26, 2021
Maayan Torah hires
principal, two more
Maayan Torah Jewish Day School has hired three new lead-
ers – General Studies Principal Darcie Young, Director of Early
Learning Lindsey Voorhees and Elementary Judaics Teacher Ela
O’Connor – to move the school to “an even better and brighter
Maayan.” The trio are joining the school over the summer to help
the school transition for a strong start to next year.
Earlier this year, Maayan Torah founding general studies
principal Aviel Brodkin announced her plans to go on leave ef-
fective June 30 (jewishportland.org/jewishreview/jr-stories/
maayan-torah-principal-plans-leave).
Darcie Young comes to Maayan from her role as the middle
school principal at Politz He- Ted Coonfield, left, and Dan Johnson unveil the bench they made
brew Day School in Cherry to honor the work of MJCC staff during the pandemic.
Hill, N.J. She has more than
20 years in teaching and a
master’s in educational leader- Artists fete MJCC staff
ship. Darcie has a passion for
building relationships with her A new lovingly crafted bench
staff, students and families. As outside the weight room at the
an ever-growing educator, she Mittleman Jewish Community
has recently trained in many Center is dedicated to the staff
areas including “On Your Feet for doing “some heavy lifting”
in ELA: Standards-Based during the pandemic.
Learning that Engages” and MJCC member and wood-
“Scaffolding: Making Complex worker Ted Coonfield teamed
Tasks for All Students.” With a forte in technology integration, she up with Multnomah Village
is a Google-certified educator. metalworker Dan Johnson to
Having spent six years working in Politz, she understands and is create the tribute bench featur- The two artisans met when Ted
familiar with many Jewish values and observances. She complet- ing 25 pound weights forming walked past Dan’s shop shortly
ed Yad Vashem’s Graduate Seminar “Teaching the Holocaust” in the bench ends. before the pandemic began. Dan
Jerusalem. Darcie is the mother of two boys, who are both now in The bench sits outside the called out to compliment Ted
university. Her move to Oregon is part of her husband’s profes- weightroom with a plaque that on his Pendleton jacket, and the
sional relocation to the area. She exudes a deep desire to help each reads: This bench is dedicated two started to chat about their
student feel like a capable learner and precious gem. to the Staff of the MJCC for respective passions.
Lindsey Voorhees has more than a decade of experience in early their tireless effort, time and “I need to work with my
childhood development. She will oversee energy to remain open when al- hands … and Dan is so talent-
the Early Childhood Education depart- lowed during the pandemic and ed,” says Ted. “He welds and
ment and act as a learning specialist for ensuring a safe environment for shapes metal, and he makes me
kindergarten to second grade. members. With appreciation for look good.”
Lindsey comes to Maayan with years of doing some heavy lifting. “It’s evolved,” says Ted of the
classroom and director experience. Most Ted has been a member of the partnership that has engaged
recently, she served as head of school for J off and on for decades for a to- the two during COVID shut-
Guidepost Montessori. Her expertise in tal of about 18 years. He didn’t downs. “We’ve gotten more
early learning literacy will bridge students’ have time to visit the J while he creative over time. I do the
learning from ECE into elementary school. was traveling extensively for his wood, and he does the metal.”
Lindsey is also a trained postpartum management consulting business The two don’t sell their joint
doula and former foster parent. She is and and work at Kitty Hawk Air- art projects, they give their
passionate in her pursuit to ensure each child has a joyful start to cargo in Dallas, Texas. Ted and “priceless” creations to honor
their education career. his wife, Meg Nightingale, have the recipients. One went to Dan
Currently living in Denver, Ela O’Connor brings a wealth of stayed in Oregon throughout the Nitti, former director of Neigh-
experience and knowledge to the Judaic years while he commuted. Since borhood House where Ted has
classroom. The O’Connors are no strang- Ted retired a few years ago, he served on the board.
ers to the Pacific Northwest having lived has exercised at the MJCC al- When Ted went to the J to
in Seattle and were a part of the Seattle most daily (with interruptions work out recently, he saw two
Kollel. Ela began her teaching in Torah during the pandemic). women sitting on the bench. He
Day School of Seattle while she was liv- Dan is facilities manager for was delighted when one of the
ing there. She brings a passion for student Central Auto Body shops, but women called the bench “func-
engagement techniques and differentiated his passion Is his Multnomah tional art.”
instruction. She will be teaching Judaics at VIllage artistic metal shop, “I like the term – I am a func-
Maayan in the middle elementary grades. Laughing Dog Forge. tional artist,” says Ted.
Jewish Review May 26, 2021 5
SHARED ISRAEL (continued from page 1)
extremists trying to tear society
apart and Jews and Arabs who
believe in a shared society.”
Elazar said what has been
most alarming about the most
recent violent outbreak is
“the extremist mobs walking
through the streets and wanting
to attack. This was shocking for
us; this never (has) happened in
Israel between citizens.”
Hand in Hand Community
Department Director Mohamad
Marzouk is one of the founders
of the Wadi Ara School, which
his children have attended. He
said his adult daughter, who is
studying at university, felt en-
dangered from both sides. “She
was very afraid because of the
missiles that came to Tel Aviv
… and because of a lot of calls
from Jewish young people to
go up to the street and look for Dror Israel held a briefing about the Israeli-Hamas conflict May 19. Gilad Perry, top left in screenshot,
Arabs.” has visited Portland to share Dror Israel's work. Dror Israel's mission is to educate and empower young
Marzouk said that Hand in people and those on the social and geographic periphery to actively contribute to their communities
Hand and other social structures and to create a shared society in Israel. Through schools for youth at risk, Jewish-Arab programs, the
“need to show a different model youth movement, educational workshops, intentional community projects and national social justice
that is possible – that’s what we initiatives, they inspire inclusivity, equality and responsibility for oneself and one’s community.
do in our daily work with the
communities and schools.” He and Israel has paused formal has changed dramatically over passionate forces will despair
added, “The majority of Arabs hostilities, but even after the the last few days.” and will give up.”
and Jews in the country want to rockets and airstrikes stopped, Gilad Perry, who helped found “I think these days leave terri-
have a normal life to see that a unrest continues in the streets. Kibbutz Eshbal, part of the ble scars,” he said. “Once end-
different thing is possible.” During the Dror Israel update, Dror Israel Movement, has vis- ed, I am sure people will have
Of the some 250 people who one speaker concurred with ited Portland in the past to share to deal with deep issues to get
logged on for the update, many Elazar’s alarm over the street the movement’s work to create Israel in the place it should be
were from Portland. Hand in violence: “What is even more partnerships between Jews and and can be – what we’ve dedi-
Hand cofounder Lee Gordon worrying and disturbing is the Arabs. cated our lives to.”
lives in Portland, and the Amer- parallel violence and riots be- During the update, Perry said, You can see the recorded
ican Friends of Hand in Hand is tween Jews and Arabs on the “We are doing this for I think briefings from Hand in Hand
headquartered here. streets of Israel – mainly in the now two decades. We literally at handinhandk12.org/current-
During the 11 days of fighting, mixed cities and towns.” Those see our efforts, our work go up events-update-may-2021/ and
more than 4,300 rockets were are the kinds of towns where in flames these days.” He says from Dror Israel at vimeo.com/
fired at Israel from Gaza, kill- Dror Israel’s 1,300 trained ed- his “horrific fear is that the ma- 552989240 (password: may_
ing 12 people. The Israeli aerial ucators proudly work on coop- jority of people – both Arabs update_2021).
and artillery campaign killed eration among Jews and Arabs and Jews within Israel, citizens You can read more about Dror
more than 230 people in Gaza, through youth movements, who are striving to create a Israel at drorisrael.org. Read
many of them civilians. schools and programming. common ground in this society more about Hand in Hand at
The ceasefire between Hamas “This situation unfortunately – these moderate forces, com- handinhandk12.org/.
ChaiLight Talks kick off with rescheduled "Life After COVID"
Originally scheduled for April 26, the inaugural ChaiLight Talks: others – what have we learned, what will be the new normal, what
18 minutes of inspiration will air on Zoom June 9 at 2 pm PDT. does Jewish thought teach us, how do we grow from it--will be
Life After COVID, the initial offering of the series, will come from addressed in a heartening program of hope and inspiration.
three of today’s great Judaic thought leaders: Rabbi Dr. Laibl Program director Rabbi Moshe Wilhelm is the Spiritual Leader
Wolf, Dr. Naftali Loewenthal and Rabbi Mendel Kalmenson. and Executive Director of Chabad of Oregon. He is the author of
This program will be accessible by viewers throughout the En- 248 Points of Light.
glish-speaking world. The target audience is anyone worldwide The inaugural program will be moderated by Jewish Federation
who seeks a new approach to viewing the world as it will become. of Greater Portland President and CEO Marc Blattner.
As we begin to emerge from the COVID pandemic, how do we Register for the free program at us02web.zoom.us/
prepare ourselves for the future? This critical question, as well as webinar/register/WN__-06KYyQT5GAO1R-Anj9sg
6 Jewish Review May 26, 2021
AWARD (continued from page 1)
Rachel is JFGP’s director of JFGP 101ST
educational initiatives & in-
tergroup outreach. Her role in- ANNUAL MEETING
cludes convening local Jewish Monday, June 14, 2021
educators, managing the local 4:30 pm via Zoom
PJ Library program and over-
seeing the Intergroup Outreach jewishportland.org/ Rabbi Chanan Spivak, who will lead the Portland Kollel after the
committee of the Jewish Com- jewish-federation-of- Fischers' departure, presented a "glance" at the future of the Kollel
munity Relations Council. greater-portlands- during a community Zoom meeting May 24.
Rogoway Award Committee 101st-annual-meeting
Chair Eliana Temkin says this relationships with ethnic- and Kollel looks to future
year’s nominees included an im-
pressive group of professionals. religious-based communities.
“Other people were close, but New relationships were forged The Portland Kollel plans 2006, about 70% of its effort
Rachel has done an incredible and others nurtured such as to continue to build a strong was to engage the community.
amount of interesting, innova- those with LGBTQ+, LatinX, Torah community and to en- "Most of our resources are
tive work,” says Eliana, who Church of Latter Day Saints, hance community engagement being sought after from people
was working at the MJCC when Black, Catholic. Rachel has even as founding Rosh Kollel wanting to grow," he said, add-
she first met Rachel as a young been instrumental in the Inter- Rabbi Tzvi Fischer leaves next ing the Kollel meets people
girl. “We’ve seen her really group Outreach Committee’s month (jewishportland.org/ where they are, from beginners
develop and grow, and (we’ve creation and launch of a we- jewishreview/jr-stories/kollels- to scholars.
seen) her willingness to try new binar series on Uncovering fischers-to-move). For now, Rabbi Fischer will
things and take on new stuff.” the Hidden History of Hate in Rabbi Chanan Spivak, who continue to lead Oregon Kosher
Community members letters Oregon and the half-day (May will step up to lead the Kol- with Rabbi Tuvia Berzow. Rab-
highlight some of Rachel’s in- 26) summit to confront hate. ~ lel, emphasized that the plans bi Baruch Diskind will serve as
novative work and willingness Michelle Bombet Minch, JCRC. he shared May 24 had been COO of the Kollel, with Rabbi
to take on new challenges: • Her respectful leadership in the works for more than Spivak as CEO and Rosh Kollel.
• Rachel was an exemplary style brings diverse and strong- six months. Kollel leadership The Kollel plans to hire four
professional pre-COVID, advo- ly opinionated members (of has been meeting to consider couples to focus on Torah com-
cating on behalf of the Jewish the Outreach Committee) to "What is Kollel going to look munity and later to hire a fifth
community, Jewish educators productive discussion and solu- like after COVID?" "power couple" focused on out-
and Jewish families with her tions. Rachel’s deep love and Rabbi Spivak said the Kollel reach and engagement.
myriad hats. During the Covid understanding of Judaism is an wants to live up to its tagline The goal is to "strengthen
pandemic, Rachel has taken it extra bonus. ~ Randi Peterson, to help pepole "discover their within and build without," says
upon herself to run the complex past chair of JCRC. Jewish connection." Rabbi Spivak.
array of technological process- • I have watched Rachel’s When the Kollel launched in portlandkollel.org
es that are required for running journey in the Jewish profes-
large-scale webinars, webinars sional world for the past 15
with government officials, with years, working both in state
educators and with many allies and out of state in the fields
telling their own stories of com- of formal and informal Jewish
bating bigotry and racism. Ra- education as a teacher and ad-
chel has given our community ministrator. Rachel keeps her
the gift of her expanding radius fingers on the pulse of nation-
of talents in arenas that were far al Jewish education initiatives
beyond her stated job descrip- and connects our Portland
tion. ~ Sarah Rohr, who worked community to them. ~ Mel Ber-
as an intern for Rachel last year. win, Neveh Shalom director of
• Rachel facilitated our JCRC- congregational learning.
Latino Network dialogue, The award includes up to
which took place over several $1,800 for a professional devel-
weeks and has led to an opment experience, something
important connection with the Rachel is sure to use to maxi- JFCS annual meeting honors Renée Holzman
fastest growing community in mum benefit for the communi- Carol Danish, long-time Jewish Family & Child Service supporter,
Oregon. She has also been ty. She currently participates in presents flowers to Renée Holzman, her dear friend and this year’s
instrumental in planning the Mandel Teacher Education JFCS honoree. Carol shared her appreciation for and admiration
an exciting joint project Institute and the Israel Policy of Renée in brief remarks, broadcast during JFCS’ recent unLun-
with the NAACP (United in Forum Conveners Program. cheon event – “Hope, Healing & Looking Ahead” – showcasing the
Spirit). ~ JCRC Director Bob “I love this community, I grew social-service agency’s four programs with a particular emphasis
Horenstein. up in this community,” says this year on children’s mental health. This message was further
• Under her leadership, the Rachel. “I am so happy to be emphasized during a conversation between JFCS President Larry
volunteer-based Intergroup Out- working in, and able to give Holzman, his mother, Renée, and JFCS Advisory Council member
reach Committee fostered new back to, this community.” Carolyn Weinstein. Photo by Jenn Director Knudsen.
Jewish Review May 26, 2021 7
Chaplain's Corner
The Power of Cemetery Visits
BY RABBI BARRY COHEN stones or markers reveals how
the deceased and their families
I do not have many memo- want to be remembered.
ries of Memorial Day from I find that my visits to cem-
Published biweekly by my childhood in Memphis. It eteries keep my life in per-
Jewish Federation of was little more than a three- spective. I feel more balanced.
Greater Portland day weekend and a reminder These visits remind me how
9900 SW Greenburg Road, that summer was drawing near. little time we have. Some of us
Suite 220 Conceptually, I learned that the live into our 90s; some of us
Tigard, OR 97223 day was dedicated to remem- die within days. Through my
503-245-6219 bering and honoring those in cemetery visits, I experience
JewishPortland.org the U.S. military who died in gratitude that I am even alive.
active service. However, my As we observe Memorial Day
Editor family had no tradition of visit- 2021, let me ask: How do you
ing cemeteries and placing flags want to be remembered? What
Deborah Moon at the graves of those who died will be your legacy? What sto-
[email protected] while defending our nation. In ries do you want to be shared Rabbi Barry Cohen is the
503-892-7404 (message) addition, we have no tradition about you? If you could distill Jewish community chaplain of
of military service. My father your life into an epitaph, what the Greater Portland area.
Circulation may have served in the Korean would it be?
To receive the Jewish War, but he was stationed in When I visit cemeteries, I re- If we are comfortable, we can
Review in your email inbox, England. flect on my own death: the set- use these visits as a time to talk
email your name and email I plan on devoting time and ting, whether I want to be alone with our loved ones, share re-
address to energy this year not only to or with others, where I prefer it cent experiences or even visit
[email protected] reflect with gratitude on those will take place. the past to ask for or grant for-
who lost their lives in military Of note, I am learning that giveness. Visits to cemeteries
OPINIONS printed in the service, but to visit cemeter- more and more people I interact can be a chance to ensure that
Jewish Review do not ies to honor members of our with are choosing to be cremat- the legacy of family and friends
necessarily reflect those Jewish community. In general, ed, and they have no preference remains vibrant. These visits
Judaism has a rich tradition of about what their loved ones are opportunities to heal.
of the Jewish Review visiting the graves of family will do with their cremains. The older I get, the more I
Committee, the Jewish and friends. We are encouraged I struggle with this. I believe learn how little control I have
Federation of Greater to visit in the days leading up to there is meaning and purpose over life. In that spirit, I em-
Portland, its governing the High Holidays in addition to being buried in a cemetery, brace opportunities to control
board or the staffs of either to our loved ones’ yahrzeit, the if possible, in a family plot. If what I can. Visiting cemeteries
the newspaper or the anniversary of their death. we choose not to be buried in provides opportunities to be
Federation. I have always enjoyed walk- a cemetery or in a place where grateful for my existence and
ing through cemeteries. I do others can visit, we do a disser- grateful for those who made
Upcoming not find it to be morbid but vice to anyone who wants to re- me who I am. These visits also
encourage me to hold fast to the
rather therapeutic on multiple member us. There is power be-
issues levels. Cemeteries are places of hind making a personal visit to positive memories of family
sacred history. I try to imagine the location where family and and friends and to do my best
Issue date Deadline the people behind the names friends are buried or interred. to let go of the painful past.
(whether Hebrew, Yiddish or
Though everyone is compli-
Through a formal visit, we
English) along with their ages have a structured way to recall cated, nuanced and contradicto-
June 9 June 3 and particular symbols or pho- memories and mark the times ry, I have to believe that we can
tographs. I am also intrigued by we shared with family and preserve part of their legacy to
their epitaphs. friends – whether joyous or make our world a bit healthier
June 23 June 17 All of the content on head- tragic, transcendent or painful. and more peaceful.
July 7 June 30
Rabbi's Corner
July 21 July 15 In addition to the Chaplain's Corner, the Jewish Review offers space for a
Rabbi's Corner each issue. Our community's rabbis are invited to share their
Submit news, photos thoughts on the week's parsha or current events. The Oregon Board of Rabbis
and obituaries by the organized the project.
Rabbis are invited to schedule a date to submit a 500- to 600-word piece. For
issue deadline to more information, email [email protected].
[email protected]
8 Jewish Review May 26, 2021
Jobs board
The Jewish Review publishes job openings from Jewish agen-
cies and congregations. Submit to: [email protected].
CEDAR SINAI PARK: Executive Assistant to CEO
Full time. Comprehensive benefit package includes 403b
matching retirement plan.
Cedar Sinai Park offers great working conditions, friendly
coworkers and welcoming residents. In addition, CSP offers
fulfilling work, career growth and the satisfaction of knowing
that you’ve made a difference. All eligible employees are able
to receive medical, dental and vision benefits and paid holidays.
The Executive Assistant to the CEO’s primary responsibili-
ty is to manage the day-to-day business activities of the CEO.
This position handles confidential information with discretion;
prioritizes and handles internal and external correspondence;
screens incoming calls in the most professional manner; sched-
ules meetings and maintains a daily and long-term calendar;
coordinates Board meetings and materials preparation; makes
all necessary travel arrangements; creates and maintains com-
prehensive filing systems; handles all CEO-related incoming
and outgoing mail; and maintains coordination of all internal
and external board participation activities. Available for flexi-
ble hours based on the needs of the job and the CEO. Residents celebrate Shavuot in the Goodman Living Room at CSP.
Full post/application: cedarsinaipark.org/careers-in-healthcare/.
TIVNU: Gap Year Resident Advisor & Mentor CSP residents enjoy
Tivnu: Building Justice is looking for a caring, organized
and dedicated individual to complete our Jewish social justice
gap year staff team. The Tivnu Gap Year Resident Advisor & Shavuot in person
Mentor will live on site in Portland with Gap Year participants
(aged 17-20), mentor program participants in formal and infor- Residents at Cedar Sinai Park
mal settings, contribute to creating an atmosphere of personal enjoyed gathering in person for
and communal growth, and perform a variety of organizational the Shavuot holiday. The culi-
support tasks. For full job description see tivnu.org/careers. nary department treated every-
one on the senior living campus
B’NAI B’RITH CAMP: Asst. Director of Programs to blintzes and cheesecake.
Full time. Salary: $35,000-40,000 DOE plus benefits. Residents of Robison and the
Location: B’nai B’rith Camp Office, Portland. Harold Schnitzer Center for Liv-
B’nai B’rith Camp seeks a dynamic, experienced assistant ing enjoyed a special Shavuot
director of programs to help in creating a vibrant Jewish com- celebration with prayers, songs,
munity through program innovation, development and imple- storytelling and a ritual that hon-
mentation. The position focuses on building on programs BB ored the value of being kind to
Camp is currently implementing along with creating new op- ourselves and others.
portunities for people to join the BB Camp community. Residents at Rose Schnitzer
The assistant director of programs will include camper re- Manor enjoyed a learning fair,
cruitment, hiring and supervising BB Camp program summer Erev Shavuot Services lead by
staff, day-to-day summer camp program, budget development Spiritual Life Coordinator Cathy
and management, and planning for improvements and growth. Zheutlin and a Yizkor Service led Diane Budner looks at the
The position is also responsible for the development, execution by volunteer Eddy Shuldman. Shavuot collage residents creat-
and logistic implementation of current and new family camps, “I felt grateful to be able to ed during the Shavuot Learning
family programs and new camp initiatives. teach in person,” says Commu- Fair at Rose Schnitzer Manor.
See the full job description at /bbcamp.org/employment/. nity Chaplain Rabbi Barry Co-
Submit a cover letter and resume to Overnight Camp Director hen. “The consensus among the Shavuot Art” with Rabbi Sarah
Bette Amir-Brownstein at [email protected]. group was that it was surreal and Rensin, “Ten Commandments”
Summer Camp Staff in Lincoln City amazing to interact face-to-face, with Cathy Zheutlin and “Uni-
In addition to the full-time job based in Portland, BB Camp is not trapped in a two-dimensional versal Themes of Judaism; The
hiring staff for this summer at BB Camp near Lincoln City. Open computer screen.” Story of Ruth” with Sonia Liber-
positions include counselors, aquatics specialists (certification Rabbi Cohen led a session on man.
course provided), Jewish educator, kitchen staff, music special- “Sacred (Virtual) Occasion: How “Sonia Liberman lives here,”
ists, office manager, outdoors/nature specialists, performing we Overcame COVID.” Other says Cathy. “She has been a
arts specialists, zip line/ropes course/rock climbing specialists classes included “Food Hunger Jewish educator all her life. I
(certification course provided) and BB Day Camp Lincoln City and Lust” with Lani Raider; consider her one of my mentors.
director. For more information and/or to apply, contact Bette at “Writing your Ethical Will” with Her contributions to Jewish life
[email protected]. Laura Fendel, “Multi-media at CSP are invaluable.”
Jewish Review May 26, 2021 9
Life-cycle events May 27: Parenting
Unvaccinated Kids in
The Jewish Review publishes life-cycle announcements such as births, b’nai mitzvah, en- a Post-Vaccine World
gagements, weddings, anniversaries and landmark birthdays. The Jewish Federation of Great-
Submit to [email protected] er Portland and Jewish Family &
GRADUATION outstanding student. She was Child Service invite parents to
Mickey Benson president of Jewish education Parenting Unvaccinated Kids in
Mickey Benson, daughter of and outreach for Hillel. She a Post-Vaccine World. The free
Portlanders Barry and Karla also served on the President's Zoom program is 8 pm, May 27.
Benson, graduated with hon- Advisory for Intercultural Parents are invited to hear
ors from Albion College, Affairs and was the Umbrella from Dr. Erika Meyer from
Albion, Mich., May 8, 2021. Council Liaison. Metropolitan Pediatrics; Dinah
Mickey was a religious Mickey is an Ezra Fellow Gilburd, LCSW, from JFCS;
studies major with a con- and will be at Binghamton and Rabbi Eve Posen as they
centration in public policy University, Binghamton, break down what life looks like
from the Gerald Ford Insti- N.Y., for the next two years when parents are vaccinated
tute with a minor in history. working with Hillel stu- and children are not able to be.
Mickey was awarded the dents. www.jewishportland.org/
Religious Studies DeVinney The family are members of parenting-unvaccinated-kids-
Family Endowed Prize for Congregation Shaarie Torah. in-a-post-vaccine-world
Obituaries
RAYMOND V. PACKOUZ RICARDO BERDICHEVSKY She was also involved with Hadassah and
Ray Packouz, z”l, passed away May 18, Ricardo Berdichevsky, z”l, passed away loved to volunteer to help others.
2021. Ray is survived by his children, Car- May 19, 2021, at the age of 67. She was preceded in death by her hus-
ol Spellman, Nancy Sharff and Ron Pack- Ricardo is loved and remembered by band of 59 years, Harold. After her
ouz. His son Ken preceded him in death in his wife, Rosana; their children, David husband passed, she moved to Israel
2019. (Stephanie) Berdichevsky and Michal Ber- to be with her two daughters and en-
He was born July 13,1921, to Max and dichevsky; grandchildren Jacob and Eden joyed the last few years with them and
Nettie Packouz in Portland. He graduated Berdichevsky; and brother, Mario (Rosie) their families and making new friends.
from Washington High School and attend- Berdichevsky. Lily made everyone feel special and loved;
ed the University of Oregon, where he was A private interment is scheduled with she will be so missed. In lieu of flowers,
senior class president. Immediately after Zoom shiva minyans May 20, 23 and 24. donations may be made to the FIDF –
graduation, he went to Midshipman School Contact Congregation Neveh Shalom for Friends of the IDF.
and was commissioned as an ensign. He links.
served on the USS Chickasaw in the South Congregation Neveh Shalom extends our RON OVERLUND
Pacific during the last two years of Word deepest condolences to the extended Berdi- Ronald Edwin Overlund, z”l, 70, of Port-
War II. After the war ended, he returned to chevsky family. land, passed away April 23, 2021, at his
Portland and married Dorothy Light, z”l. home after bravely
They were blessed with 72 years of mar- LILY FLOOM enduring treatment
riage, four children and 42 grandchildren Lily Floom, z”l, passed away peacefully for stomach cancer.
and great-grandchildren. in her home in Israel surrounded by loved Ron is survived by his
He and his father, Max, founded Pack- ones April 29, 2021. She is survived by her wife, Cori; son, Ben-
ouz Insurance Agency. He was an avid children, Noma (David), Jay (Sue), Tobin jamin; sisters, Patty
sports fan and loved the Blazers and the (Mary) and Perri (Kobi); 12 grandchildren; Overlund and Carol
Ducks (his license plate was “42 Ducks”). 10 great-grandchildren; and many, many Mitchell; nephews,
Ray was active in the Jewish community, friends. Bree Cuppoletti and
served on several boards and championed Lily was born Oct. 16, 1927, in Winni- Patrick Obrien; niece,
many charitable causes. He was a strong, peg, Canada, and moved with her husband, Kim Timm; and many cousins.
independent man with a love of life and Harold, to Portland soon after they were Ron and his wife, Cori, had Ron’s
an amazing sense of humor and wit. married. She had an amazing career sell- Center Deli at the Mittleman Jew-
He will be greatly missed. In lieu of flow- ing furniture at JCPenney’s and was very ish Community Center for 12 years.
ers, donations may be sent to the Robison involved in founding Hillel Academy Jew- Ron was born June 7, 1950, in Silverton,
Jewish Home (Cedar Sinai Park) or Oregon ish school (predecessor to Portland Jewish Ore. He married Cori Lebenzon in 1986.
Food Bank. Academy) as one of the first presidents. Their son Benjamin was born in 1991. Ron
worked at New Season’s Market the last
SUBMISSIONS 14 years. He was preceded in death by his
Submit obituaries to: [email protected]. parents, Albert and Leona Overlund; his
Obituaries are posted online as they are received at: jewishportland.org/obituaries. daughter, Maggie Overlund; and his sister,
Kathy Cuppoletti. Ron gave us much to
Pay tribute to family or friends in memory of their dearly departed laugh about and to be grateful for, and we
by making a donation in their honor. Call 503-245-6219 or visit will celebrate him every day. A gathering
jewishportland.org/kavodtribute. will be held later this summer.
10 Jewish Review May 26, 2021