Exclusive updates for our donors and supporters from your
Fitness for All at the J
Over the past two years, we’ve focused on growing our Fitness offerings at the J, and the response has been amazing! We’ve introduced several new programs designed to help members of all ages stay active and healthy.
Family Fitness Hours
We’re excited to offer Family Fitness Hours in the Fitness Center, allowing parents and guardians to bring their children, ages eight and older, to work out together. These dedicated hours are available:
Weekday afternoons: 4:15 - 5:30 pm
Weekends: 3:00 - 6:00 pm Parents or guardians are responsible for supervising their children at all times during these hours.
Youth Fitness Workshops
We recently completed a successful eight-week Youth Fitness Workshop, led by two of our talented instructors. This class, designed for children ages eight to fourteen, focused on building a positive and healthy relationship with fitness. The goal was to create a safe, age-appropriate space where kids could have fun while learning to love an active lifestyle.
• Tuesdays: Led by Andrea Green, a personal trainer, group exercise instructor, and highly decorated amateur bodybuilder.
• Sundays: Led by Shawn Montiel, a former personal trainer and current group exercise instructor.
Adult Fitness Workshops
We also offered two, eight-week Adult Fitness Workshops, led by personal trainer and group exercise instructor, Ruth Lukowski.
• Strength Training for Weight Management
• Beginning Strength Training
These workshops were designed for members who are new to strength training or want to adapt their existing routines. With medical professionals increasingly highlighting the benefits of strength training as we age, we want to ensure our members have the opportunity to learn how to do it safely and effectively
The positive feedback we’ve received for all of these new programs has been fantastic. We look forward to continuing with more Fitness Workshops in 2026!
For all of our current offerings please visit oregonjcc.org/wellness
Summer 2025 is a Wrap!
Summer 2025 was one of our best yet! More than 150 campers joined us each week for eight weeks of fun, friendship, and Jewish enrichment. From swimming and sports to arts, field trips, and Shabbat celebrations, campers experienced the joy of being part of a safe and welcoming community.
Day Camp Summer 2025
Our campers filled the building with energy and enthusiasm for all of the fun that MJCC Day Camp has to offer. Our Counselors in Training (CiTs) truly shined, supporting younger groups and leading activities during Shabbat each week. Our CiTs are encouraged to apply to work as counselors next summer. We also partnered again with PJA Summer Discovery in offering MJCC Summer Discovery Extended Day, welcoming even more campers and keeping our afternoons lively and connected.
Highlights
This year’s highlights included field trips to OMSI, the Oregon Zoo, rock climbing at Movement Rock Gym, a day of soaring at Skyzone, Gabriel Park and frozen yogurt at Sunny’s. Our End of Summer Celebration, sponsored by OnPoint Community Credit Union, brought families, campers, and staff together to mark the close of a joyful season with bounce houses, music, snacks, and community fun.
Thank You!
Thanks to the dedication of our staff and the enthusiasm of our campers, MJCC Summer Day Camp 2025 was a season filled with growth, connection, and lasting memories. We are grateful to our donors, whose support makes it possible for us to provide these meaningful experiences for so many children and families. Planning is already underway for Summer 2026, and we cannot wait to welcome our campers back!
Several Stingrays Compete at 2025 USMS Summer Nationals!
Michel Ridgeway
MJCC member, Michel Ridgeway, has been swimming off and on since high school, and has been with the Stingrays Masters for two years. He is one of our most dedicated competitors! At one point he thought his Individual Medley days (where you swim all four competitive strokes: Butterfly, Backstroke, Breaststroke, Freestyle) were over, but he took silver in his 80-84 age group for both the 200 and 400 IM at the USMS Summer National Championship in Federal Way on August 6-10. He augmented that with a fourth place in the 200 backstroke, and came home well-decorated!
Ben Kono, Noah Peng, Allison Corcoran
Stingrays swimmers Ben Kono, Noah Peng, and Allison Corcoran also competed in the meet representing OSU and Team Oregon. Ben, Noah, and Allison, all in college now, have been swimming with the Stingrays since they were in elementary school! In addition to individual accomplishments, Ben and Noah both brought home two gold medals for the Men’s 200 m Medley and Free Relays, and Allison brought home two bronze medals for the Mixed 200 m Medley and Free Relays.
Jennie Condon
To top off a very successful meet for our Stingrays swimmers, our very own Jennie Condon was selected as Nationals Assistant Coach for Team Oregon for the meet. Congratulations to Jennie and to all of our Stingrays competitors!
Michel Ridgeway with his medals
Allison Corcoran and Ben Kono (not pictured, Noah Peng)
How Do You J? With MJCC Member, Lisa Alber
We’re excited to introduce you to Lisa Alber, one of our wonderful J members. We recently spoke with her to learn more about her life, her connection to our community, and the many current (and future!) hobbies she pursues, both in and outside of the J.
Lisa Alber
1) How long have you been a member of the J? What drew you to us, and what keeps you here?
I’ve been a member since Spring 2023. I decided to join a gym to regain my strength after a car accident. I’ve lived in the neighborhood for years, and I had driven past the J thousands of times. The first time I entered for a facilities tour, I was struck by the lovely, airy community space/cafe with tables and comfy chairs. I imagined myself parked in front of the view writing on my laptop or relaxing with a coffee and a novel. The atmosphere and the people are what keep me coming back.
2) How do you utilize the J?
I sweat up a storm in the group classes and also use the weight room. I love the friends I’ve made; working out is as much about socializing as exercising, and I cherish that.
I’ve enjoyed the community events, too, and I do indeed bring my laptop or a novel. The cafe also becomes my retreat from heat waves since I don’t have A/C.
3) What sets the J apart from other gyms?
Everyone is friendly and inclusive no matter your fitness level or goals. As a middle-aged woman, I feel safe and secure within the J. There’s no judgment. For exercise, the J promotes a nurturing environment rather than a competitive or performative one.
The facilities are fantastic. I love that the weight room is a quiet space. The group exercise instructors are knowledgeable, fun, and always willing to provide personalized exercise options.
4) Do you have a story you’d like to share about a J staff member or fellow J member?
I want to give a shout-out to the mah jongg ladies who gather in the cafe, talking, laughing, and placing their tiles. I don’t know them, but I love seeing them. I imagine being a mah jongg lady someday when I’m retired and still a member of the J.
5) Where are you from originally? How do you like to spend your time outside of the J?
I moved to Portland years ago from New York City. I grew up and went to college near San Francisco, then lived in Ecuador and Brazil before moving to NYC. I’m a writer, reader, avid gardener, animal lover, and mellowed vagabond. Besides working, I spend time with family and friends, and pursue my quiet passions since at heart I’m a giant introvert. The J is a great space for introverts.
6) Anything else you’d like to share?
Given the precarious state of the world, stepping into the J provides me with spiritual relief. It’s a safe haven of inclusivity and acceptance. I love the values it promotes.
Would you like to be featured in this section?
Email Lisa Katon at LKaton@oregonjcc.org
Upcoming Arts + Culture Events
Shabbat Family Dinners
Join friends and family at the J for a monthly Family Shabbat Dinner, the third Friday of each month. Participate in the Hamotzi, join in song with rotating song leaders, and play in designated kids spaces while meeting new people and making new friends.
Fridays, Oct. 17, Nov. 21
6:00 pm in the Cafe at the J
Pizza in the Hut
Join your friends at MJCC for a Sukkot celebration with Pizza in the Hut! Enjoy a pizza dinner and Sukkot-themed activities and traditions in the MJCC sukkah.
Thursday, Oct. 9
5:00 pm in the MJCC Courtyard
Finding the Right College Fit:
Navigating Campus Life as a Jewish Student in Today’s Climate
The workshop will be led by professional college counselor, Jody Bothe, in conjunction with Andy Friedland from Greater Portland Hillel.
Sunday, Oct. 19
4:00 - 5:30 pm at the MJCC Pre-registration required
Check out our new Guide to the MJCC and Fall Calendar.
Learn about all we have to offer at the MJCC. Consult the Fall Calendar to see fall seasonal events and classes. Pick up these reimagined Guides at the Welcome Desk today!
American Technion Society
The MJCC, JFGP and ATS have partnered to bring quarterly presentations to the community that center around scientific and technological innovations emerging from some of Israel’s brightest minds.
Dates and times: TBA
ORA Winter Marketplace
Stock up on gifts, be entertained, and support local artists at the annual Winter Marketplace Hanukkah Fair.
Nov. 16 - 21 In the MJCC Lobby
Latkes and Schmooze
Bring the family to celebrate Hanukkah at the J with dreidel games, songs and PJ Library activities.
Thursday, Dec 18
5:00 pm in the Cafe at the J
New Year’s at Noon
Come ring in the New Year with your friends at the MJCC at one of the most popular events of the year. Enjoy games, music, and fun activities for young families.
Wednesday, Dec. 31
11:00 am - 12:30 pm in the MJCC Ballroom
For details about all of our upcoming events: oregonjcc.org/culture
Celebrating Community at the Day for the J!
The annual Day for the J on May 18th was a big success, bringing together hundreds of community members to celebrate all things “J”! Attendees of all ages enjoyed a wide array of free activities, from Israeli dancing and relaxing massages to games of pickleball and basketball.
Honoring Our Community’s Best
The afternoon featured a special reception and awards ceremony in the ballroom, recognizing exceptional individuals within our community. We proudly presented the Pillar of Excellence award to Stan Blauer. The Harry Glickman Scholar Athlete awards were given to two outstanding young individuals, Meredith Rubenstein and Noah Zeitzer, for their achievements in both academics and athletics. Another highlight of the event was the induction of Marshall Glickman into the Oregon Jewish Sports Hall of Fame. A heartfelt Mazel Tov to all our deserving awardees!
Fun in the Sun: Activities for Everyone
The festivities continued throughout the afternoon with a variety of engaging activities. The pool float was, as always, a popular attraction. As evening approached, guests gathered on the back pool deck for a festive Lag B’Omer bonfire, complete with hot dogs and roasted marshmallows. We were especially grateful for the beautiful weather, which made our outdoor activities even more enjoyable!
A Special Thank You to Our Sponsors
The Day for the J would not have been possible without the generous support of our dozens of sponsors. We extend our sincere gratitude to them for helping us provide these wonderful programs and maintain our beloved community gathering space.
Grand Patron
Gayle Schnitzer Romain Fund of OJCF
Diamond
Stanley and Judith Blauer Family Fund of OJCF
Elizabeth Menashe
Platinum
Ellie and Dan Albert
Ben-Zaken Family Giving Fund
Nadine Gartner and Ben Olds
Allan and Nancy Lipton
Jeff, Anne, Josh and Sol Nudelman
Gold
Steve Albert and Janie Goldenberg
John Emshwiller and Deborah Yaeger
Jerry and Bunny Sadis
Carolyn Weinstein
Silver
Michael Feves Family Fund of OJCF
John and Beth Germain
Bob and Lesley Glasgow
In Loving Memory of Molly Horowitz
Bronze
Barry and Karla Benson
Anna Epstein and Nate Smith
Naomi Harwin Counseling
Merrill and Perry Hendin
Michelle and Josh Kashinsky
Priscilla and Tony Kostiner
Linda and Gary Singer
RD Symms and Danelle Romain
Sallie Weissinger and Bart McMullan Jr.
Staff Profile: Angelica Evans
Graphic Designer, Social Media + Marketing Specialist
Last September, we welcomed Angelica Evans to the MJCC. If you’ve seen our social media or the posters around the J (or PJA!), you have already seen her work in our community. As our Graphic Designer, Social Media + Marketing Specialist, she is either glued to her computer or snapping pictures of the smiles around our campus. Let’s find out a little more about her!
Tell us a little about yourself.
Hi! I’m Angelica, the J’s Graphic Designer, Social Media + Marketing Specialist. I’m originally from Canada, but have lived in and out of the States for the past couple of years. I actually completed my education here in Portland at PSU, and since then, I have been working primarily in Branding Design and Marketing.
What are your primary responsibilities in your role at the J?
My primary responsibilities at the J are marketing all the exciting events we host and showcasing our community online. My role is more than just designing posters and flyers. It’s about keeping you, our community, informed and engaged. Whether it’s updating our website or responding to your questions on social media, I’m here to provide you with the information you need. Sometimes, that means delivering less-than-ideal news, like pool closures, but I strive to ensure that the good always outweighs the bad.
What do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time, I am probably online. Not in an unhealthy way, but I try to stay up-to-date on current design movements and social media trends. I’m always looking for new inspiration and ways to improve my work. When I am away from a screen, I spend a lot of time in my kitchen
cooking and force-feeding my friends whatever recipe I am trying out. This balances out with my love for the gym and all things fitness. I used to be a personal trainer and even played sports in college, so these habits have stuck with me. On the weekends, you can find me at the farmers market, catching a sports game - depending on what sports are in season - or at a concert, taking in some live music.
Since joining Team J, what can you tell us about your experience so far?
My experience at the J has been incredibly rewarding. I’ve had the opportunity to work on some exciting projects and connect with our vibrant community. In the future, I hope to continue growing in my role and contributing to the J’s success.
Member Perks
At the J we offer our members community perks. Members show their Membership card and receive discounts at local businesses! Check out these upcoming perks.
September
Marco’s Cafe
10% off one entree. marcoscafe.com
October
Mother’s Bistro
Buy a dinner entree, get a free dessert. mothersbistro.com
November
Please Louise
Details coming soon. please-louise.com
December
Sunny’s Yogurt
10% off and double loyalty points with their rewards plan. sunnysfrozenyogurt.com
All Year Long
Dairy Hill: 10% off in-person purchases
Chamber Music Northwest: $10 off any ticket
Northwest Dance Project: 20% off Third Rail Repertory Theatre: Discount codes
Oaks Park: 25% off Ride Bracelets through 10/31. 25% off Roller Rink admission through 12/31.
Ask the Expert: Andrea Green
MJCC Personal Trainer
I am a regular at the gym and love my time on the cardio machines. Can you describe the benefits of adding strength training to my fitness routine?
Adding strength training is great because it can increase muscle mass and strength which helps to improve overall physical function. Building muscle is beneficial to maintain lean muscle mass for overall health and is essential as you age. Stronger muscle makes everyday tasks easier and can reduce the risk of injury, and it helps with weight management.
A great way to get started with strength training at the J is to take a look at our personal training staff. Schedule a free Fitness Orientation with your trainer of choice. Together, you will discuss your strength goals and current abilities. You will then agree on a plan and work through a starting routine and learning how to use our equipment. You are then on your journey to achieving your goals.
About Andrea
Athleticism has always been a part of my life. The lifestyle of training is just part of my day. I start each day excited to go to work, and I enjoy pushing people to accomplish their fitness goals while staying away from injuries. When you work with me, you get a multi-time, world champion body builder.
Specialities:
• Barbell Strength Training
• Bodybuilding &-Focused Training
• Functional Fitness
• Strength & Metabolic Conditioning
To schedule with Andrea or another personal trainer, email fitness@oregonjcc.org or visit the Welcome Desk.
In Grant News…
We are grateful to the following donors who made recent grants in support of the MJCC (April-August 2025):
Holzman Foundation
Warm pool capital repairs
JCC Association of North America/ Ministry for Diaspora Affairs/Mit-habrim
To present an October 7th Commemoration event through short films
National Center to Encourage Judaism
Three-part educational series on Jewish holiday traditions
Oregon Jewish Community Youth Foundation
Three-part series on antisemitism on college campuses
Repair the World
To host three impactful Jewish service experiences in the coming year : National Day of Jewish Service (NDJS) Fall, MLK Day of Service, and NDJS Spring
Women’s Giving Circle of the Jewish Federation of Greater Portland
Volunteer project to create hygiene kits for new women’s shelter, Bethanie’s Room
Thank You to Our Newsletter Contributors:
Lisa Alber, Steve Albert, Bess Butterworth, Angelica Evans, Becky Ewer, Andrea Green, Lisa Katon, Holden Regnier, Jenny Robinett, Eden Samiee, Karen Sapoznikow, Hillary Shifrin
Support the MJCC
Scan this QR Code to make a donation to support the MJCC.
Donors of $360+ are invited to join the Friends of the Center Society. Contact Bess Butterworth at bbutterworth@oregonjcc. org or 503.452.3427 for more information.
Warm wishes for a new year filled with peace, joy, and hope.
Shana Tova
MJCC Legacy Society
The MJCC Legacy Society is a group of dedicated community members who have made the extraordinary commitment to remember the MJCC in their estate plans. We are deeply grateful for their ongoing support and their dedication to ensure the long-term sustainability of our Center. If you are interested in becoming a Legacy Society member, contact our Executive Director, Steve Albert, at salbert@oregonjcc.org or 503.535.3592.
Anonymous (2) Bruce Abrams
Jonathan and Sarah Glass
Bernard Goldhammer z”l
Steve Rosenberg and Ellen Lippman
Eve and Alan z”l Rosenfeld
Stan and Madelle Rosenfeld
Kyle and Rebecca Rotenberg
Bunny and Jerry Sadis
Stephen and Becki Saltzman
Faye Gordon Samuels
Andrea Sanchez and Benjamin Drucker
Lois and Leonard Schnitzer z”l
Sandra Schnitzer
Gary and Linda Singer
Jonathan Singer
Les z”l and Martha Soltesz
Tom Stern
Menachem M. Teiblum z”l
Kenneth and Jennifer Zeidman
Jason Zidell
The MJCC is vital to our family and our broader Jewish community. We benefit greatly from the MJCC’s programs and events, and we want to ensure that future generations have a welcoming space to connect, learn, and grow together.
- Nadine Gartner and Ben Olds MJCC Legacy Society Members
Jewish Community Center
Schnitzer Family Campus
6651 SW Capitol Highway, Portland, OR 97219
503.244.0111 | oregonjcc.org
Jason Zidell
Danelle Romain
Arnon Peleg
Rick Nitti
Michelle Kashinsky
Eric Herman
Martha Izenson
Arielle Goranson
Nicole Frisch
Eric Brickenstein
Barry Benson
Jules Bailey
Naomi Harwin | Secretary
Nate Smith | Treasurer
John Emshwiller | Vice President
David Solondz | President-Elect
Nadine Gartner | President
of Directors