Savoring Tradition, Building Community: Family Shabbat Dinners at the MJCC
The Mittleman Jewish Community Center (MJCC) has begun hosting monthly Family Shabbat Dinners on the third Friday of each month. Families and friends gather to celebrate the beauty of Shabbat together in an event designed to create intergenerational connection and provide opportunities to make new friends, fostering a sense of belonging and community. These dinners are subsidized by a generous donation from an anonymous community member and allow for Shabbat Dinners to run for a full year. The cost is only $15 per family or $5 per individual.
The evening begins with the traditional Hamotzi, the blessing over the challah, a moment of shared gratitude and reflection. As we break bread together, we embrace the spirit of Shabbat, setting aside the week’s hustle and bustle to appreciate the present moment.
Each month, rotating song leaders guide us in uplifting melodies, weaving familiar tunes with new harmonies (from Hine Ma Tov to the ever popular Shabbat Dinosaur song). PJA Parent Rikki Kass, who led the songs and prayers during the March Shabbat Dinner, even found, learned and sang a song dedicated to Shabbat Family Dinners at the J.
Recognizing the energy and enthusiasm of our youngest participants, we provide designated spaces where kids can play, socialize with peers and run around. We offer PJ Library books, Shabbat themed coloring sheets and hula hoops for our youngest guests while their parents relax and enjoy the shared meal and conversation. It’s a space where new friendships blossom and lasting memories are made.
Whether a long-time member of the MJCC or new to the area, all are welcome to join! According to J member, Steve “Sudsy” Friedman, last month’s Shabbat Dinner at the J “was a highlight of our week. I brought my kids, my mom, my sister, niece and nephew and their baby. The Shabbat service and atmosphere was outstanding and the food was terrific. Unbelievable value and a great sense of community that we all enjoyed so much. We will be back!”
Registration opens the first business day of each month, and we require that guests pre-register for an accurate head count. Registration info can be found at oregonjcc.org/culture
Join us for our upcoming dinners: May 16 | June 20 | July 18 | August 15
Three generations of the Friedman family. Community members at the MJCC Shabbat Dinner.
OPEN HOUSE + CELEBRATION
Sunday, May 18 11:00 am - 4:00 pm Free and Open to Everyone!
Join us for a day full of fun activities
Childcare available from 11:00 am - 4:00 pm
11:00 am - 12:45 pm
Pickleball Clinic | Chair Massage | 3x3 Basketball Israeli Dancing (at 12:00 pm)
12:45 - 1:15 pm
Join us for a reception with snacks for everyone
Watch the PJA Cheer team perform
1:15 - 2:00 pm
Community Celebration Awards Ceremony featuring: Harry Glickman Scholar Athlete Awards
Oregon Jewish Sports Hall of Fame Induction Pillar of Excellence Award Recipient, Stan Blauer
2:00 - 4:00 pm
Open Swim | 3x3 Basketball | Arts and Crafts activity
3:00 - 4:00 pm
Lag B’Omer Bonfire event with games and treats over the fire
Day for the J: A Celebration of Community, Achievement, and Connection
The Mittleman Jewish Community Center invites the community to “Day for the J” on Sunday, May 18, 2025, from 11 am to 4 pm. This annual event showcases the J’s diverse offerings and its vital role in fostering connection and well-being and is open to everyone – members and newcomers alike!
More than an open house, “Day for the J” is a celebration of community, designed to engage all ages. Participants can join pickleball clinics and 3x3 basketball tournaments, while families can enjoy open swim and fitness classes. Those seeking relaxation can indulge in chair massages, and arts and culture fans can choose from hands-on art making activities as well as Israeli dancing. We will come together for a snackfilled happy hour mid-day before the start of our Community Celebration Awards Ceremony.
The Community Celebration Awards Ceremony is a moment of recognition for outstanding individuals in our MJCC community. We will honor academic and athletic excellence with the Harry Glickman Scholar Athlete Awards and induct a new member to the Oregon Jewish Sports Hall of Fame. This year, we are especially privileged to present the Pillar of Excellence Award to Stan Blauer, a lifelong Portland resident whose dedication has profoundly impacted the MJCC.
Stan Blauer’s commitment to the community is truly remarkable. As Chairman of ShedRain Corporation, he has balanced a successful career with extensive civic engagement. His roots in Portland’s Jewish community, fostered at the old JCC and Neighborhood House, shaped his lifelong dedication. He served over two decades on the Oregon Jewish Community Foundation board, including as president, and led regional associations. He participated in the MJCC’s construction, served as board president from 1989-1991, and chaired the pivotal 1991-1995 Capital Campaign, significantly contributing to the MJCC’s growth.
The day culminates in a community Lag B’Omer celebration on the back patio starting around 3 pm. This traditional holiday event provides a perfect ending to a day dedicated to unity and connection.
The “Day for the J” offers a unique opportunity to experience the J’s diverse programs, from fitness and wellness to arts and culture. It is a celebration of the past, present, and future of our beloved community center. We invite everyone to join us on May 18th to celebrate the spirit of community and discover the enriching experiences the MJCC offers. To register: visit oregonjcc.org/daxko
Stan Blauer, Pillar of Excellence Award Recipient.
Thank you to our 2025 Day for the J Sponsors!
*As of April 15, 2025
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
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
Bob and Lesley Glasgow
BRONZE
Barry and Karla Benson
Anna Epstein and Nate Smith
Naomi Harwin Counseling
Merrill and Perry Hendin
Michelle and Josh Kashinsky
Linda and Gary Singer
RD Symms and Danelle Romain
Sallie Weissinger and Bart McMullan
Connecting Through Yamim: MJCC Community Celebrates Israel
The MJCC has received a grant from the JCC Association of North America, in partnership with Israel’s Ministry for Diaspora Affairs, through the Mit-habrim | מתחברים | Connections initiative. This grant supports Yamim programs, commemorating Yom HaShoah, Yom HaZikaron, and Yom Ha’Atzmaut. The MJCC will be hosting a free Yom Ha’Atzmaut celebration on Thursday, May 1st from 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm. The event will center around Israeli music, food and hands-on educational activities presented by local Jewish and Israeli youth organizations. Kosher food will be available for purchase and preregistration is required. This annual event is also supported by the Jewish Federation of Greater Portland.
On the evening of April 29th there will be a Yom HaZikaron commemoration in the Stern Family Ballroom. This event is hosted by the Israeli community and will include a musical program featuring local Israeli community members.
The $7.2 million Mit-habrim initiative aims to strengthen ties between North American JCCs and Israel, particularly following the October 7th attacks. Over $1.5 million in Yamim grants have been distributed to over 110 JCCs in the US and Canada, facilitating events that emphasize solidarity with Israel and the Jewish people.
The event on May 1st is expected to draw over 500 attendees and exemplifies the initiative’s goal of fostering deeper connections between North American Jews and Israel. DJ Barz, hailing from New Jersey, will be spinning both contemporary and traditional Israeli songs from over the decades. DJ Barz is a favorite at private events around New York City, as well as Israeli restaurants and parties and is sure to energize all who gather to celebrate.
The Yamim program empowers JCCs to combat antisemitism and strengthen ties with Israel. JCC Association of North America, with its extensive network, and the Center for Israel Engagement, play pivotal roles in this initiative, alongside the Ministry for Diaspora Affairs, in fostering these vital connections.
Yom HAZikaron
Commemoration
tuesday, April 29
7:30 - 9:00 pm | at the MJCC
Remember and honor those who gave their lives defending Israel and who were killed in terrorist attacks. Commemorate the sacrifices made for Israel’s security and freedom.
Yom Ha’atzMaut
Community Celebration
thursday, May 1
4:30 - 7:30 pm | at the MJCC
Celebrate Israel with hands-on educational activities, Israeli food, traditional and contemporary Israeli music spun by DJ Barz, dancing and fun for the whole family. Free and open to everyone!
How Do You J? With MJCC Member, Ted Coonfield
Ted Coonfield with the J’s Little Library.
3. What sets the J apart from other gyms?
If you’ve been to the J recently, you probably noticed the beautiful benches in the vestibule and down by Studio 1. And now there is a brand new “J’s Little Library” in the lobby. These handcrafted items were made and donated by longtime MJCC member, Ted Coonfield. Ted is a big proponent of finding and building community, and he has found the J to be a perfect place to make vital social connections during his retirement years.
1. How long have you been a member of the J? What drew you to us, and what keeps you here?
In the early 2000’s, upon retirement, and not traveling all over the country consulting with companies, I joined the J. My wife, Meg, has been a member since the late 1970’s. Our children attended JCC Preschool, Kindergarten, and Day Camps. This summer, one of our grandsons will be going to MJCC Day Camp.
2. How do you and your family utilize the J?
I really enjoy working out at the J a few times a week, where I have met so many wonderful people. The trainers are special, and so helpful. Meg uses the warm pool.
I’m sure people that go to other gyms meet people but the J just facilitates seeing friends, meeting new people, and feeling a part of a community.
4. Do you have a story you’d like to share about a J staff member or the J community?
Joe, my trainer, is the dearest of persons. We set goals for my fitness, like hiking the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, or being ready for a very active expedition in Africa this summer. He balances my age and capability with improvement and physicality.
So many seniors in our country experience isolation and loneliness. I am blessed with close family and friends, and so many of them are here at the J. When traveling, both Meg and I so look forward to coming home and getting back into our routines at the J.
5. How do you like to spend your time outside of the J?
Since retiring 20 years ago, I have been active in our community, helping start the Hillsdale Farmers’ Market, serving on the board of Neighborhood House, writing a book, becoming a master chocolatier, and doing woodworking making functional art like epoxy river tables, benches, wine barrel tables, bread and charcuterie boards. The J has graciously accepted and used some of my benches, and recently, upon request, I made a little free library cabinet for them. Check it out in the lobby!
Oh, and like many of our peers, Meg and I travel extensively - usually several trips a year and visits with a son in Pittsburgh and another in New York City, where our two grandsons are ready to play.
Thank You to Our Newsletter
Contributors:
Steve Albert, Bess Butterworth, Ted Coonfield, Angelica Evans, Becky Ewer, Lisa Katon, Holden Regnier, Eden Samiee, Karen Sapoznikow, Nathan Schloss, Lana Stern
Open to Everyone Ages 3 - 15!
June 23 - August 14, 2025 8:00 am - 5:30 pm
Mittleman Jewish Community Center
Summer’s Coming: MJCC Day Camp Prepares for a Season of Fun
The J is eagerly anticipating the start of the Summer Day Camp season! With temperatures rising in Portland, excitement is building for the upcoming summer. This winter has been productive, focused on managing registration and staffing to ensure another successful camp season. Registration numbers are strong, and the camp is approximately 75% staffed, with only a few remaining positions to fill. This progress allows for a concentrated effort on finalizing exciting summer plans.
This summer, we will introduce new organizational structures to streamline registration and the camp check-in process. By integrating technology into these procedures, the goal is to address parents’ needs promptly. A new Counselor in Training (CIT) leadership program, supported by resources from Moving Traditions, will also be implemented. This program will provide valuable leadership skills to young adults and support the CIT Unit Head in guiding future counselors. The program will simulate a typical camp day, emphasizing the importance of the CIT role. Additionally, the camp will expand its field trip offerings to include new locations throughout Portland, catering to campers’ desire for diverse experiences. For campers not participating in field trips, increased swimming opportunities will be provided through creative pool scheduling.
We are enthusiastic about the upcoming summer and look forward to welcoming campers in late June! For more information on Day Camp and to register, please visit: oregonjcc.org/daycamp.
MJCC Facility Enhancements
In recent months, the MJCC has undertaken a number of important facility enhancements. The most significant of these improvements are related to campus security and to our aquatics programs.
Our campus has been fortunate to receive significant federal grant funding to enhance campus security through “target hardening.” The grant program, run by FEMA and known as the Urban Area Security Initiative – National Security Grant Program, is intended to address security deficiencies at non-profit organizations that are considered to be high-risk targets.
Our recent security projects have focused on three areas. First, we have upgraded our windows. All of the building’s exterior windows have a thick layer of security window film, and, in recent years, we have slowly been replacing these windows with ballistic, or “bullet-proof,” glass.
Second, we have expanded our extensive surveillance camera system with updated cameras, offering greater functionality, and additional cameras, further expanding our coverage. New cameras are focused on the exterior of the Sportsplex as well as the parking lot. An added bonus of this project is that the trenches that were dug to accommodate the electrical and network cables could be used in the future to bring electricity to car charging stations in our parking lot.
Third, we continue to upgrade our public address system with new equipment that enables us to communicate throughout the campus in any emergency situation. These projects, in combination with previous enhancements, ensure that our campus is as safe and secure as possible.
Our other important project, which will be completed soon, consists of several upgrades to our warm water pool. The pool needs a new drainage system, and the completion of that work also requires additional work to bring the pool’s drainage system up to current codes. The completion of this work will necessitate that we resurface the warm pool. When complete, these projects will help ensure that the warm water pool can continue to serve our community effectively for years to come.
All of these projects require brief inconvenience to our members, and we are grateful to everyone for their patience and support!
Support the MJCC
In Grant News…
We are grateful to the following donors who made recent grants in support of the MJCC (Sept. 2024-April 15, 2025):
Anonymous Family Foundation
• Monthly Family Shabbat Dinners
Israel Engagement Fund: A JCC Association of North American Program Accelerator and the Ministry of Diaspora Affairs
• To support MJCC’s Yom Ha’Atzmaut Celebration
Jewish Federation of Greater Portland
• To support MJCC’s Yom Ha’Atzmaut Celebration
OnPoint Community Credit Union
• To support MJCC Day Camp’s End-of-Camp Celebration
Repair the World - National Day of Jewish Service
• For Earth Day planting event in partnership with PJA, PJ Library and Watershed Resource Center
Leonard & Lois Schnitzer Charitable Supporting Foundation of OJCF
• Warm Pool operations
• Jewish/Israeli film series
Helen & Jerry Stern Grandchildren’s Fund of OJCF
• To support MJCC’s Yom Ha’Atzmaut Celebration
• To support MJCC’s Day for the J
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.
Staff Profile: Nathan Schloss
Aquatics Manager
Tell us a little about yourself.
Last October, we welcomed Nathan Schloss to the MJCC as our Aquatics Manager! If you enjoy swimming laps or utilize our warm pool you have probably seen him down at the Aquatics Department. Let’s find out a little more about him!
Upcoming Events
Yom HaZikaron Tuesday, April 29
Taste of Judaism Classes Tuesdays, April 29, May 6, 13, 20
Yom Ha’Atzmaut Thursday, May 1
Summer Day Camp: Bounce in the Bubble Event Sunday, May 4
Rose City Self-Defense Class
Mondays, May 5, 12, 19
Shabbat Family Dinners
Fridays, May 16, June 20, July 18, August 15
I am a native Portlander and an alumnus of Portland State University; I have been active for a very long time in both the Portland Jewish and Aquatics communities! I actually had my Bar Mitzvah party here at the MJCC, as did both my siblings! Previously, I was the Aquatics Director for B’nai B’rith Camp in Lincoln City for several summers where I oversaw a team of lifeguards at both the camp’s swimming pool and the various activities we did on Devils Lake.
What are your primary responsibilities in your role?
My primary role at the J essentially breaks down to making sure our pools are happy and healthy! That means ensuring both our main and warm pool are properly sanitized, adequately lifeguarded during guarding hours, and making sure our team is well trained in the event of an emergency.
What do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, exercising, traveling, and spending time outdoors when the weather allows for it. I’m always interested in finding new spots in Portland to check out.
Since joining Team J, what can you tell us about your experience so far?
So far it’s been great to be involved in a community I’ve been involved with my whole life and bring my aquatics background to the J. It’s been interesting growing up attending summer camps and events at the MJCC, and now being on the other side of that.
How can people connect with you if they have questions about MJCC membership?
Please reach out to me anytime with questions, comments, or concerns! You can contact me by email at nschloss@oregonjcc.org or by phone at 503.452.3433.
Day for the J + Community Celebration
Sunday, May 18
Jewish Community Orchestra Concert Sunday, June 8
Drag Queen Bingo Monday, June 9
National Theatre Live Screenings
July: TBA
For details about all of our upcoming events: oregonjcc.org/culture
Ask the Expert: Lana Stern
Certified Energy Manager. Energy Coach, Energy Trust of Oregon’s Strategic Energy Management Program
What are some ways I can make my home more energy efficient?
Often when people think about saving energy, the first thing that comes to mind is actually renewable energy – solar arrays and wind turbines. But energy conservation strategies and energy efficient equipment should be everyone’s first step to reducing their energy bills and overall energy consumption.
ENERGY TRUST
When it comes to upgrading your home or replacing old equipment, your first stop should always be Energy Trust of Oregon’s website to see what rebates and incentives are available energytrust.org/residential.
From getting a home energy audit, to upgrading your hot water heater, heating/cooling thermostat, adding insulation and more, Energy Trust has cash incentives, tips and tricks, and trained contractors (“Trade Allies”) ready to support your project.
INSULATION
Air sealing and insulating your home is one of the most costeffective ways to reduce energy waste and boost your comfort levels all year round. Review this guide for how to identify and address air leaks and install insulation: energytrust.org/tips/ tips-for-identifying-air-leaks-in-your-home and energytrust.org/ residential/diy/insulation/get-to-know-your-insulation-options.
s Add weather stripping drafty windows and doors
s Install gaskets around exterior wall switches and outlets
s Caulk small holes and cracks
s Close exterior storm windows or install interior storm windows if you don’t have them.
LIGHTING
s Dust your lightbulbs – dirty lightbulbs burn out faster. Upgrade lighting to LED for a longer lifespan and lower energy usage overall.
s Adjust outside lighting timers to ensure they do not come on when it is still light out.
s Turn off lights when not needed. Use motion sensors for indoor and outdoor lights where feasible.
HEATING AND COOLING
Scheduling your thermostat to only heat and/or cool when you need it and to the right level of comfort is a great way to save energy and keep your bill low.
s Improving air sealing and insulation will allow you to reduce heating and cooling to maintain adequate indoor air temperatures.
s A smart thermostat can enable you to adjust and monitor your thermostat remotely.
s Replace the filters on your heating and cooling equipment regularly. During the coldest months when your heating system is working its hardest, check your air filter. If it looks dirty, change it. A dirty filter will slow airflow and make the heating system work harder and waste energy. If you are running your heating system during spring and summer, change the filter every three months.
HOT WATER
s The maximum safe temperature for your hot water heater is 120oF. Anything above that increases energy use unnecessarily and can lead to scalding.
s Wash and rinse laundry with cold water and only run full loads whenever possible.
s Use a timer for showering to reduce shower time. Make it a game for kids!
s Do not leave the water running when brushing teeth, doing dishes or other cleaning or cooking activities.
s Use aerators on sinks and low-flow shower heads to reduce water use.
MANAGING ELECTRONICS
s Group electronics on easily accessible power strips so you can turn all off with one switch.
s Disable your screensaver and shut down computers at night.
s Unplug electronics to avoid energy waste through vampire loads (also known as standby power and phantom load). The term refers to the electricity many gadgets and appliances waste just by being plugged in (even if they’re switched off).
What is the J doing to become more energy efficient?
The J has been deeply committed to energy conservation for some time now! The J has maintained a long-term relationship with Energy Trust of Oregon and has received many thousands of dollars in incentives for equipment upgrades and energy management best practices.
The most recent major energy management project the J successfully completed was a building controls upgrade. This has resulted in drastic energy savings and the J received a significant portion of the cost of this project covered by Energy Trust of Oregon.
The J has participated in Energy Trust of Oregon’s Strategic Energy Management (SEM) program for five years now. SEM is an Energy Trust of Oregon offering that provides
MJCC Legacy Society
tools and education to businesses to start saving energy today and continue saving over time. SEM Participants learn how their business uses energy and identify where waste is happening. You can learn more about SEM here: energytrust.org/commercial/existing-buildings/incentive/ strategic-energy-management.
Over the course of participation, the J has formed an energy team, worked with Energy Coaches, and attended workshops and webinars to learn energy management best practices. Every year, Beth Germain, Mack Baker, and Steve Albert create a yearly Energy Management Plan, conduct energy audits with Energy Coaches, monitor energy use and respond to anomalies, and optimize equipment operations and maintenance of significant energy use equipment. All of these efforts have resulted in reduced energy bills and the MJCC has received over $25,000 in cash incentives.
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
Steve Albert and Janie Goldenberg
John and Carol Arnsberg
Richard Barker and Kelly Portnoff-Barker
Stacy Barna
Barry and Karla Benson
Amy and Doug Blauer
Gerel Blauer z”l
Stephen and Pamela Butler
Milton Carl z”l
Glen Coblens and Mia Birk
Edith Dorsen
Don “Ike” Eichman z”l
Becky and Greg Ewer
Howard and Jen Feldman
Nadine Gartner and Benjamin Olds
John and Beth Germain
Robert E. Glasgow and Lesley G. Glasgow
Jonathan and Sarah Glass
Bernard Goldhammer z”l
Nancy J. Green z”l
Merrill and Perry Hendin
Lisa Katon and Noah Kressel
Sheldon Klapper and Sue Hickey
Eric and Anna Kodesch
Eric and Robin Kornblit
Tony and Priscilla Kostiner
Stacey Lebenzon
Jordana and Ryan Levenick
Howard and Wendy Liebreich
Gail Mandel and Steven Klein
Ralph and Sandy z”l Miller
Jeanne Newmark
Jeff and Anne Nudelman
Sue Perkel
Robert and Rita Philip
James E. Richman
Bert and Laurie Rogoway
Gayle and Paul Romain
Steve Rosenberg and Ellen Lippman
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 holds a special place in our hearts. As an employee and members, we are grateful for the support the MJCC has provided to our whole family. Since moving to Portland over 20 years ago, the MJCC has been a second home for us, providing health and fitness, childcare, after school classes, summer camps, social and educational opportunities, Jewish culture, and most of all community. We are part of the Legacy Society to ensure that the MJCC continues to be a second home for future generations.
- Becky and Greg Ewer
Nina, Becky, Greg, and Jackson Ewer
Mittleman
Jewish Community Center
Schnitzer Family Campus 6651 SW Capitol Highway, Portland, OR 97219 503.244.0111 | oregonjcc.org
Tamar Wyte-Lake
Danelle Romain
Arnon Peleg
Rick Nitti
Karli Kondo
Michelle Kashinsky
Martha Izenson
Arielle Goranson
Marni Glick
Nicole Frisch
Eric Brickenstein
Barry Benson
Naomi Harwin | Secretary
Nate Smith | Treasurer
David Solondz | Vice President of Strategy
John Emshwiller | Vice President of Facilities
Jason Zidell | Immediate Past President
Nadine Gartner | President
Board of Directors
support of the MJCC.