And just like that, another summer of fun and growth at MJCC Day Camp!
Summer 2024 was an unforgettable experience at MJCC Day Camp, where over 150 campers per week had the opportunity to make new friends, explore their Jewish heritage, embark on exciting field trips, and create lasting memories. Our largest camp season to date, we welcomed campers of all ages, from our youngest Sababa group to our experienced Kef and CiT (Counselors in Training) campers.
One of the highlights of the summer was the expansion of our Kehila group into four separate pods, allowing campers to connect with a wider range of peers. Our Ruach group, consisting of third and fourth graders, provided a welcoming environment for campers who had been part of the MJCC Day Camp community for several years. The Kef and CiT groups were particularly impressive, demonstrating strong leadership skills and serving as positive role models for younger campers.
To enhance the camp experience, we introduced a Sports + Enrichment Coordinator who led campers in various games, sports activities, and Jewish enrichment programs. By merging the CiT Unit Head and Jewish Enrichment Specialist positions, we empowered CiTs to take on leadership roles in leading Shabbat services and other aspects of Jewish programming.
Throughout the summer, our Kef and CiT campers enjoyed a variety of field trips to local attractions, including the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI), the Belmont Avalon Arcade, Sunny’s Frozen Yogurt, the Oregon Zoo, Movement Rock Gym, and SuperPlay in Beaverton.
We concluded the summer with a memorable End of Summer Celebration sponsored by OnPoint Community Credit Union, featuring snacks, bounce houses, and exciting giveaways.
Overall, summer 2024 was a resounding success at MJCC Day Camp. We are already looking forward to the upcoming season and the opportunities it will bring for our campers and staff. Campers get to swim at MJCC Summer Day Camp!
Our campers love to smile especially when they are outside or heading to the Sportsplex to play!
Pride at the MJCC
This year, the MJCC’s Pride offerings expanded to include additional activities for the community and the staff. In partnership with PJA, the MJCC worked to create more well-rounded programming offerings and looks forward to further expanding these in the future with even more exciting activities and events. The MJCC staff were provided with great Pride shirts again this year to be worn during June and July and throughout the year. The Marketing Department at the MJCC also launched the online MJCC store, which included a Pride t-shirt that members could purchase.
The J extended an open invitation to all staff to join a book club gathering to discuss the thought-provoking book, “The New Queer Conscience” by Adam Eli. This book, drawing from Eli’s personal journey as a Jewish person and the principles of pikuach nefesh and mutual responsibility, aims to foster a more inclusive and understanding community for Queer people. The books were provided to our staff at no cost and the book discussion will be held this fall.
Part of our Pride programming involved our active participation in Portland’s annual Pride Parade on Sunday, July 21, alongside Jewish Pride Greater PDX. This was a wonderful opportunity for us to come together as a community, with various Jewish organizations standing in
solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community. To prepare for this event, the MJCC, in partnership with PJA, hosted a signmaking event on July 17, inviting all community members to join and get ready for the parade.
Pride at the MJCC is a year-round celebration, and the J looks forward to having Poison Waters return on Sunday, October 20, at 4:00 pm for another round of Drag Queen Bingo, more lively than you ever thought possible! This event will include prizes and performances by other drag queens between games. Scan this QR Code to register now.
How Do You J?
With MJCC Member, Eric Brickenstein
We are delighted to introduce you to MJCC member Eric Brickenstein. Eric is a devoted MJCC member who enjoys making connections and experiencing the community vibe at the MJCC.
How long have you been a member of the J? What drew you to us, and what keeps you here?
My family became members of the J when we moved to Southwest Portland in 2022. My first job was as a volunteer camp counselor at a JCC near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, so the JCC has always been a special place for me. When we moved to the neighborhood, joining the J was a no brainer.
In part, we joined simply to have a quality place to exercise, swim, etc. It was also important to connect with the Jewish community. We’re not religious, but Jewish identity is very important to me. The values that I see practiced every time I visit the J – welcoming, respect, small and large acts of kindness – make me proud of our heritage.
I’m thankful for how the J presents Jewish culture to the broader Portland community and as an example to my children.
How do you/your family utilize the J?
Eric and daughter, Noli, enjoying a day off.
I use the pool and exercise facilities regularly and enjoy working remotely from the Cafe at the J when I can get away with it. My daughter learned to swim here, and my two-year old son will, as well, as soon as he’s ready. We also attend evening events when we’re able, though admittedly, between work, play dates, martial arts, soccer, etc., that can be challenging.
What sets the J apart from other gyms?
The community vibe and level of comfort. It’s not intimidating the way some gyms can be. I always feel I can work out to the best of my ability here without judgment. The facilities here are excellent, and provide people of all abilities with the opportunity to train to the level of rigor that’s right for them.
Do you have a story you’d like to share about a J staff member or fellow J member?
Rather than share one story about an individual, I want to give a shout out to the whole team at Cafe at the J. They are phenomenal and add so much to the J.
How do you like to spend your time outside of the J?
I grew up in Orange County, California, and moved to Portland for graduate school in 2011. Growing up near the ocean, fishing and surfing have been a big part of my life, and I still enjoy doing those things. But my favorite activity is just spending time with family. I’m kind of a homebody. We’re fortunate to have a nice backyard, and if I could spend all my time there I probably would.
Anything else you’d like to share?
These are in many ways difficult and divided times. I have always believed that we have both a responsibility and the ability to make our world a little bit better through the way we treat each other in everyday life. The J is an organization that shares that belief and, more importantly, a place where members of the community and staff consistently put it into practice. That’s an incredibly valuable thing and a privilege to be a part of.
A Garden that Reduces Pollution
There’s a new garden being planted at the bottom of the warm pool driveway! It will be more than just a pretty garden; it will enhance the MJCC’s sustainability efforts by filtering rainwater before it flows into the surrounding streams. This project is formally called the MJCC Stormwater Project, and it is being completed by the Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership with funding from the City of Portland through the “% for Green Program” of the Department of Environmental Services. The project is a stormwater retrofit and the new facility is what the city calls a “stormwater treatment bioswale.”
According to Chris Hathaway, Community Programs Director of the Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership (and a member of the Portland Jewish Academy Board of Directors), “Stormwater retrofit projects, where new stormwater management facilities are built within an existing parking area, are critically important to protecting water quality. New development in Portland generally requires these facilities, but most sites lack on-site stormwater management where stormwater pollution can be captured and absorbed by soil and plants. The new MJCC bioswale replaces almost 700 sq. ft. of asphalt, and its soil, grasses, and trees will capture oil, grease, copper, tire dust, and other pollutants from over 13,000 square feet of impervious surface, keeping those pollutants out of Fanno Creek.”
In addition to cleaning the water that flows into Fanno Creek, the garden itself will also be a place where native plantings can provide a habitat for pollinators, birds, and other small animals. The greening of previously paved areas helps to improve air quality and reduce temperatures. The new garden will be adjacent to Zelda’s Garden, by the entrance to the warm pool lobby.
The project also includes an educational component. During the planning stages in 2022-23, environmental educators from the Estuary Partnership provided stormwater education lessons, in the classroom and in the field, to PJA’s 4th and 5th grade students.
Family Fun at the J!
The MJCC has expanded its family programming to provide various activities for all ages, catering to diverse interests and needs. From fitness classes to engaging programming, there’s something for every family member to enjoy.
Fitness
We’ve introduced a new fitness class at the J - Family Fitness! This class is held on Tuesday afternoons and the first and third Saturday mornings of the month. It is designed for families with children ages eight and up. It’s a safe, age-appropriate space that not only helps families get active together, but also fosters a healthy love of fitness in children.
The Fitness Center has family fitness hours every afternoon of the week from 4:15 - 5:30 pm. After completing the online waiver, members may bring their children (ages eight and up) to the Fitness Center. Parents/guardians are responsible for supervising their children’s activity while using the space.
Members of the MJCC have highly praised and enjoyed both of these programs, a nice reflection of their quality and appeal. Their positive feedback is a testament to the value these programs bring to our community.
Family Nosh
Who doesn’t love a Nosh? The MJCC has expanded our Member Noshes to include a series of Family Noshes. During the past few months, the themes have included a movie afternoon, a bounce house in the bubble, and a picnic on the lawn. Families have had the opportunity to come together with other families to spend an afternoon having a light snack, doing crafts, playing games, and participating in other fun activities around the specific theme of the Nosh. The J is excited to continue hosting these significant events. Keep an eye out for dates starting in early 2025.
Day for the J:
A Tribute to Community, Achievement, and Legacy
Our 2024 Day for the J, held on May 19, was a celebration of all things J. The day started with drop-in activities and fun for the whole family. We had a popular pickleball clinic, open playtime in the Sportsplex, family swim, and even free chair massages. After the conclusion of the family activities, and a celebratory reception, we turned our attention to honoring several important individuals.
We honored a true “pillar” of our community, Priscilla Kostiner, who, for over 50 years, has been a stalwart leader in various capacities in Portland’s Jewish community. Hers is a story of dedication, leadership, and a love for Jewish life. Her continued dedication to the MJCC, over many decades, has ensured our continued ability to provide a forum for both visual and performing arts. Thanks to her efforts, we were able to screen a film of a deeply moving play, “The Last Cyclist.” The evening concluded with a talk-back with playwright Naomi Patz, a longtime friend of the Kostiners.
In addition to honoring Kostiner with the J’s Pillar of Excellence Award, we were delighted to induct Robert Zelinka z’l into the Oregon Jewish Sports Hall of Fame. Robert was an Oregon football legend, known for his passion for the sport at the high school, college, and coaching level. He also served as Head Linesman for the Pacific Coast Conference. Robert’s daughter, Leslie Loutzenhiser, shared a few words about her father upon receiving this honor.
We also recognized two outstanding student athletes, Lia Komitor and Enzo Nusbaum, who were selected as our 2024 Harry Glickman Scholar Athletes. Komitor, a PJA graduate and recent graduate of Lake Oswego High School, is a nationally ranked, state champion in softball. She also earned All-League recognition in basketball and soccer. Nusbaum, a recent graduate of McDaniel High School, has excelled at soccer since his youth, leading the McDaniel team to a historic state quarterfinal run. Both of these athletes are also high-achievers in the classroom and have been active community volunteers.
The event raised $55,000 and exceeded our goal thanks to the generous support of 20 outstanding sponsors. All proceeds support improvements to the MJCC, equipment purchases, and staffing. Save the date of Sunday, March 30, 2025 for next year’s Day for the J!
Priscilla Kostiner accepting the Pillar of Excellence Award.
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.
October
The Butterfly Effect Art Studio 15% off thebutterflyeffectartspace.com
November
Other Worlds Games
10% discount on in-store merch otherworldsgames.com
December
Sunny’s Frozen Yogurt 10% off and double loyalty points sunnysfrozenyogurt.com
Meet our Weekday Welcome Desk Staff!
Shelby Harman (they/she)
When will we see you at the Welcome Desk?
I’m a night owl, so you’ll see me in the afternoons and evenings during the week!
Where are you from?
I’m from Tampa, Florida and lived there for over 20 years before coming to Portland in 2017. Right in the middle of a giant snow storm no less! A very warm welcome!
How long have you worked at the J?
About six months now.
What do you like best about the J/your job?
I’ve always loved helping people and making friends, so having the opportunity to be a friendly resource for our guests is a lot of fun for me! Plus, I love chatting up all the interesting and kind folks that take the time to visit me at the desk.
Favorite item at the Cafe at the J.
The Kafta Beyond Burger or Grilled Portobello on pita are my go to for something I know will be seriously delicious and filling. I always say either if anyone asks for recommendations.
Lidiya Kushniryuk (she/her)
When will we see you at the Welcome Desk?
I work Monday through Friday, you’ll see me in the morning from when we open until early afternoon.
Where are you from?
I was born right here in the heart of Oregon at the downtown Providence Hospital and have lived here my entire life. I’m a first-generation American to my parents who migrated here from Moldova. Fun fact: I speak Russian even though my parents are not technically from Russia. Stop by the Welcome Desk, and I’ll teach you how to say “Hi”!
How long have you worked at the J?
I’ve worked here for over a year.
What do you like best about the J/your job?
I love forming new connections. I’ve always been a social butterfly and this has given me an amazing opportunity to interact and sharpen my people skills.
Favorite item at the Cafe at the J.
If you ever get a chance (and I mean EVER get a chance because they go quick) I recommend ordering Will’s famous made-right-in-the-cafe chocolate chip cookie. I dream about those cookies some days. They are ooey-gooey and chocolate chippy. It’s definitely a fan favorite.
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Special Thanks to our Newsletter Contributors
Steve Albert, Eric Brickenstein, Bess Butterworth, Sandy Engel, Angelica Evans, Becky Ewer, Shelby Harman, Lisa Katon, Lidiya Kushniryuk, Holden Regnier, Jenny Robinett, Eden Samiee, and Karen Sapoznikow
Events This Fall
Tuesday, December 31
11:00 am - 12:30 pm at the MJCC
Join us for this fun family event as we ring in the New Year!
all ages | games | bounce house arts and crafts | snacks | face painting beach ball drop at noon
Parents are responsible for supervising their children.
Arts + Culture
Upcoming Events, Fall 2024
We invite you to join us for a year of arts and culture at the MJCC. Whether you’re a lifelong member of the Jewish community or simply looking for a new and exciting cultural experience, we have something for everyone! For more information and a complete calendar of events, please visit oregonjcc.org or pick up a copy of the fall guide.
Open Play Mah Jongg
Join a growing group of players in the cafe on Wednesday mornings for instruction and games. Wednesdays | 9:30 - 11:30 am
Pizza in the Hut
Join your friends at MJCC for a Sukkot celebration with Pizza in the Hut! Enjoy a pizza lunch, Sukkot themed activities, and traditions in the MJCC Sukkah.
Sunday, October 20 | 12:00 - 1:30 pm
Schmoozapalooza - Senior Prom for 60+ Boogie in style with friends old and new for a celebratory afternoon. DJ, dancing, photo booth, refreshments and more!
Sunday, October 27 | 1:00 - 4:00 pm
The Mikvah Project
Art by local Jewish artists will be exhibited in the MJCC Lobby during the month of November. Join us for an artist opening reception. Thursday, November 7 | 6:00 pm
Latke Schmooze
Bring the family to celebrate Hanukah at the J with dreidel games, songs and PJ Library activities. Thursday, December 19 | 5:00 pm
For
Sponsored by MJCC Day Camp
Ask the Experts: Jenny Robinett and Bess Butterworth
How can I get more involved at the J?
Do you have any volunteer opportunities?
There are two ways you can volunteer at the MJCC.
1. J Ambassador:
MJCC Volunteer Corps New!
As a J Ambassador volunteer you will be connecting with new members or returning members to the MJCC. You will be responsible for reaching out to your person(s) once a week for eight weeks. During this time, you will see what their current interests are and what their future interests may be at the MJCC. We ask that you meet with your person(s) at least four times during this eight week time period. During this connection time, you may be attending a group fitness class with them, meeting them for a workout in the Fitness Center, swimming, having a cup of coffee, or attending an event.
Do I have to be Jewish to volunteer at the MJCC?
The MJCC is an inclusive and welcoming hub for a diverse community and is open to everyone from all backgrounds. This includes our volunteer program! While it is grounded in Jewish values, we embrace a central role in welcoming all to gather, connect, learn, and celebrate life.
2. Arts + Culture Events Volunteer Program:
The MJCC offers a variety of events throughout the year that center around Jewish holidays, lectures, performances and exhibitions. We partner with local artists, organizations, and community members to provide these experiences to our members and nonmembers alike. These events require setup, tear down, check-in and other tasks.
Can I volunteer with a friend or group?
My schedule varies, are there volunteer opportunities for someone like me?
Absolutely! We will send out the opportunities to all trained volunteers, and you will have the opportunity to volunteer with your friends and family!
All of our volunteer opportunities are based around what you can do within your schedule.
Is there a minimum age to volunteer?
There is not a minimum age to volunteer. There are a limited number of opportunities for children. Age requirements will be listed on each volunteer opportunity.
I’d like to volunteer but have some physical limitations. Are there opportunities that can accommodate my needs?
The MJCC is happy to make accommodations when possible and appropriate to the volunteer opportunity.
How will I be able to sign up for volunteer opportunities?
An online link will be sent to you to register for the various opportunities. If you need assistance with completing this, reach out to your Volunteer Supervisor.
Do I still have to fill out an application and go through the paperwork and process if I’m only volunteering once?
Yes, we ask that all of our volunteers have the necessary information needed to participate in the volunteer program even only if it is one time.
Jenny Robinett
MJCC Assistant Executive Director
Bess Butterworth
MJCC Development Events + Community Programs Manager
In Grant News
We are grateful to the following donors who made recent grants in support of the MJCC (April - August 2024):
• Harold Grinspoon Foundation
• PJ Library Program Grant
MJCC Legacy Society
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.
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
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 z”l Schnitzer
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
Becky, Greg, Jackson and Nina Ewer
MJCC Staff is Here For You!
Steve Albert, Executive Director 503.535.3592 | salbert@oregonjcc.org
