The Winged M, April 2023

Multnomah Athletic Club’s mission: Enrich lives, foster friendships, and build upon traditions of excellence in athletic, wellness, and social programs.

FEATURED 25 President’s Priorities

As a new Board of Trustees takes the helm, the current and former president discuss what lies ahead for the club.

50 Synchro Attracts New Audiences

A global trend takes shape in the waters of MAC as artistic swimming grows and evolves.

ON THE COVER

Masters artistic swimmers Kristen Schmedemann, Michele Bennett, Jen Sterrett, Michelle Kinz, Julie Vigeland, and Andrew Reynolds. Cover design by Julia Omelchuck. Cover photo by Brandon Davis.

The Winged M (USPS 483-210) is published monthly by Multnomah Athletic Club at 1849 SW Salmon Street, Portland, Oregon 97205. Advertising from members and nonmembers is accepted by The Winged M. Advertisers in The Winged M are not endorsed by Multnomah Athletic Club unless otherwise noted. For questions concerning mailings and subscriptions, call 503-517-7280 or email membership@themac.com. Periodicals postage is paid at Portland, Oregon. POSTMASTER: Send change of address to Multnomah Athletic Club Member Services, 1849 SW Salmon Street, Portland, Oregon 97205. ©2023 Multnomah Athletic Club. For advertising information, email advertising@themac.com.

Submit magazine content ideas to wingedm@themac.com. View current and past issues of The Winged M online at thewingedm.com.

Aranda, Maria Del Mar Aranda, Kristen Morgan, and Vera Klebleeva at the

BRANDON DAVIS

Committee Chairs

STANDING

Audit Alison Rosenblum

Athletic Ken Meyer

Budget & Finance Alison Rosenblum

Communications Jake Laban

Diversity Admissions Ann Blume

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Tanya McGee

House Brad Miller

Member Events Alex Page

Membership Dave Hanna

Property Jenna McPherson

BOARD

Food & Beverage Brian Jukeland

Human Resources Katherine VanZanten

Land Use Greg Specht

Technology Xavier Clark

SPECIALIZED

Arts Susie Younie

Community Involvement Sheri Anderson

Investments Ryan Cotton

SPORT

Artistic Swimming Marni Davis

Basketball Kyle Hypes

Climbing Jeremy Cohen

Cycling Bryan Leslie

Dance Andrea Malloy

Early Birds Rich Director

Fitness & Decathlon Lori Webb

Golf Larry Vanlaningham

Group Exercise Neisa Dokken

Gymnastics Marilyn Litzenberger

Handball Conor Casey

Karate Elizabeth Flores

Outdoor Activities Program

Laura Johnson-Graham

Pickleball Dana Bach-Johnson

Pilates Julia Ju

Racquetball Sanjay Bedi

Ski & Snowboard Audra Galler

Squash Steve Schaller

Swim Brad Fennel

Tennis Gram Leahy

Triathlon & Running Erica Chiotti

Volleyball Melissa Nelson

Walking & Hiking Anna Kanwit

Water Fitness Joanna Bartlo

Water Volleyball Steve Watson

Yoga Miki Chown

SOCIAL

20s/30s Alex Moreland

Balladeers Chris Rasmussen

Culture & Style Shannon Conrad

Family Events Annie Barry

Holiday Decorating Bridget Connolly

MelloMacs Kirsten Leonard

Social Activities Louie Paul

PRESIDENT’S COLUMN

The club is humming, and the past few months have showcased the absolute best of MAC. Whether it’s overcoming a historic late-winter snowstorm or celebrating Black History Month, it’s an exciting time for our club. MAC doesn’t slow down during the next few months as we prepare to host two significant events, Easter Brunch and Mother’s Day Brunch. Both offer a chance to come together with our friends and families and celebrate at a place we love.

Speaking of families, this time of year also usually offers an opportunity to get away for spring break and recharge for a few days. While we did not have spring break plans this year, my family recently had the opportunity to celebrate my wife’s birthday with a trip to Palm Springs. We were joined by family members who made the trek over from the East Coast, and it was an amazing trip filled with plenty of laughs, tons of food, and a hike on the Ladder Canyon Trail (to help work off the meals).

Our chance to gather reminded me of what makes MAC special — community. MAC continues to be a community with seemingly endless opportunities to gather, learn something new, share in each other’s company, and build lasting memories.

New Committee Year

As a new committee year launches, MAC is well-positioned to have a productive 2023. The board would like to welcome the new committee chairs who embark on their roles this month. We’re excited to work with you this year and look forward to collaborating with each of the committees as we strive to continue to provide a premium member experience for the entire community.

Club leadership has been working on creating a more consistent system that sets up our committees for success. This involves providing more direction, with specific board charges and strategic goals, to give each of our committees a better idea of what’s expected. This year, we’ve introduced committee handbooks that outline all the information needed to be successful. It includes details about running a committee meeting, holding a vote, scheduling and planning an event, and much more. We’re also providing new communications packages for committees to utilize. MAC’s Communications team has explored how club content performs and how membership patterns work, and they’ve developed specific packages for deliverables that will meet the communication needs of the committees. This practical new tool eliminates guesswork, and we’re excited for our committees to have access to such a helpful resource. Committees remain crucial to club operations, determining policies and programming, and shaping the future of MAC. I encourage anyone to consider joining a committee; interest forms can be submitted beginning in May.

Club Strategy

As a board, our job is to make governance decisions aligned with MAC’s mission and long-term vision. Last year, we partnered with our committees and club staff to determine where to focus our 2023 efforts. Each year, we aim to prioritize work that will have the most impact while using club resources responsibly. Some areas we’re focused on include clubwide events, improving facilities, exploring and testing new experiences and programs, and improving digital experiences and tools. Our main focus is, and always will be, to provide the best experience possible for our members. And with the new committee year underway and the board aligned with club staff and leadership, there is no doubt in my mind that we are set up to do exactly that in 2023.

Nathan Ayotte PRESIDENT

Brian

Andrew

Board of Trustees

President Nathan Ayotte

Vice President Richard Maxwell

Treasurer Alison Rosenblum

Secretary Katherine VanZanten

Trustees

Susan Bladholm

Ryan Chiotti

Jenny Kim

Victor Perry

Andrew Randles

Dana Rasmussen

Jennifer Strait

Alex Young

General Manager

Charles Leverton

Executive Leadership Team

Strategy & Portfolio Director

Matt Abraham

Culinary & Events Director

Erik Anderson

Finance & Accounting Director

Mary Averette

Chief of Staff

Laura Boley

Communications Director

Stephanie Cameron

Interim Athletic Director

Chad Failla

HR Director

Amy Mattson

Engagement Director

Derek Pratt

Club Operations Senior Director

John Sterbis

Senior Leadership Team

Strategy & Special Projects Manager

Nathan Loomis

Technology Director

Mark Marcelline

Portfolio Manager

Patrick Martin

Facilities Director

Daniel Newell

Member Experience & Services Director

Kevin Pollack

Membership Manager

Kelly Robb

Fitness & Wellness Manager

Maddy Sweeney

Employee Engagement Director

Carrie Tarbell

MANAGER’S COLUMN

Spring is a time for renewal. Our community members are busy preparing their homes and families for another amazing Oregon summer. Part of that annual ritual is evaluating what to keep and what is no longer a part of our daily lives.

If your family is like ours, that conversation usually includes a bit of emotion and likely some negotiations. Our family’s process includes a “holding area,” aka our garage storage. This important intermediate phase in the lifecycle of our family’s memories and cherished possessions is vital to ensure that the ping pong table that was once the epicenter of our family night battles is truly ready for retirement, rather than just waiting for the kids to realize what they are missing. Although I am certain that the inch of dust and mountains of our family’s outdated clothing on top of it is an indicator that the table isn’t returning to the core of our family’s lives, the cathartic process of gradual transition allows everyone to find peace as we go through the natural cycle of loss and regrowth.

Much like our families, our MAC community is also taking the time to assess what is still actively in use and which areas of the club are nearing the “fond memory” territory. As we now transition the recommendations from the two-year campus master planning work into our committee system for consideration, we are also looking at other parts of the club, including our programming, smaller spaces, and equipment. While the club leadership evaluates the merits and feasibility of each recommendation these next few years, we must also focus on improving smaller but equally important opportunities club-wide.

It is our aspiration to make our “spring cleaning” a more consistent process. This includes annual prompts to committees to consider the future of their areas of responsibility, including the spaces they utilize, and a focus on leveraging our newly implemented strategic planning and portfolio management process to help align our desire for change

with available resources. It also includes the development of our member engagement team to help separate “good ideas” from the true wishes of our member population. The hope is that this will create more gradual shifts that accurately address the most critical needs of the club.

Last month, Fitness & Wellness Manager Maddy Sweeney and I attended one of the world’s largest fitness conferences to explore new trends in fitness equipment and programming. Prior to that trip, we partnered with our MAC teammates to walk the club in an effort to identify areas and equipment frequently underutilized or in disrepair. We brought back many new concepts that we are excited to present to our committee leaders. These include drastically updating many of our cardio and selectorized machines in the Fitness Room, making some ambitious improvements to the Recovery Room (possibly including a cold plunge), and exploring the creation of multi-use yoga areas in places that are underutilized in the club.

On the programming side, we are exploring opportunities to create exciting new engagement opportunities while testing new uses for existing spaces. This includes a partnership with our Food & Beverage team to test a library happy hour concept as we consider a larger investment into a possible new bar area, intended to address the need for more business and adult-friendly social spaces. We might even conduct a few proofs-of-concept that explore the temporary conversion of our Sun Deck pool space into an adult pool lounge during hot summer nights. We will also continue to expand our successful “Beyond MAC” concepts that leverage partnerships throughout Portland and beyond to offer many more opportunities to connect both socially and athletically while reducing the pressure on our existing club facilities. This will allow us to test new concepts such as a potential theater and arts program, expanded sports offerings through recreational leagues, and perhaps even some more chances to enage our rapidly growing pickleball community.

As always, members remain at the heart of all of our decisions, and we welcome both feedback and suggestions via Sounding Boards as we collaborate to keep our community vibrant and relevant for all members.

Charles Leverton GENERAL MANAGER

Ways to Reach At Your Service

atyourservice@themac.com

Text or call 503-517-7235 themac.com/group/pages/contact-us

Additional Points of Contact

Accounting

503-517-7200

Athletics & Wellness

503-517-7525

Events & Catering

503-517-6600

Child Care

503-517-7215

Facilities

503-517-6656

Food & Beverage

503-517-6600

Lost & Found

503-517-7235

MAF

503-517-2350

Maintenance

503-517-6665

Membership 503-517-7280

Mporium

503-517-7290

ATHLETICS COLUMN

Throughout my athletic and professional career, I have been a user, trainer, programmer, and operator of many different gyms. Without a doubt, MAC has one of the most comprehensive and expansive fitness facilities I have ever been in, not to mention the opportunity to train with amazing views of Providence Park as a backdrop. While the E&C Revitalization project in 2020-21 upgraded the spaces, it also evolved the space to allow for access to open turf, functional training methods, and an overall elevated workout experience. Through this evolution, we have collectively faced a good problem — there are more people, of all ages, eager to utilize our fitness spaces.

With growth comes growing pains, and I would like to use this column to help remind all members — young, new, longtime, and seasoned members — of universal gym etiquette, along with our MAC-specific rules to help us all enjoy this lovely, shared space.

Gym etiquette refers to the proper and respectful behavior that gym-goers should observe while using our fitness spaces. It is essential to maintain a friendly and inclusive atmosphere to ensure that everyone can have an enjoyable and safe workout experience. Here are some essential reminders to keep in mind:

Clean up after yourself and put away equipment: Whether you are using weights, machines, or mats, it is crucial to wipe them down after you finish using them. Not only is it more hygienic, but it is also respectful to the next person who wants to use the equipment. Make sure to put back equipment where you found it so that it does not become a tripping hazard and is easy for other members to find.

Limit cell phone use: While phone calls are not permitted in the Fitness spaces, please be mindful of your screen time. Texting and scrolling through your music playlists or workout programs on your phone can decrease awareness of your surroundings and become an unsafe distraction. Resting on a machine with your phone in hand can make it hard for other members to get your attention and ask to work in.

Respect personal space: Be mindful of other people’s personal space while working out. If someone is using the equipment, give them enough space to perform their exercises without distractions.

Allow others to stay focused during their workouts: While it is tempting to chat with others while working out, it is essential to respect their focus and not interrupt their workout. If you need to ask someone a question, wait until they are finished with their set or exercise.

Keep noise levels down: While grunting and cheering may be a common practice for some people, it can be distracting and disruptive to others. Try to keep noise levels to a minimum and use headphones when listening to music.

Dress appropriately: It is important to wear appropriate workout attire while in the gym. Current club rules state that members are required to wear a shirt (since 2021, shirts that expose midriffs have been allowed) and closed-toe athletic shoes. Sandals, slippers, or non-athletic slide-on shoes are not allowed. Make sure your clothing allows for a full range of motion and is suitable for the type of exercise you will be doing.

Be aware of your surroundings: It is important to watch out for others while working out. Avoid walking in front of someone who is lifting weights, and don’t block the path to the water fountain or bathroom.

Correction:

The list of 50-year members pictured in the March 2023 issue of The Winged M unintentionally omitted the name of Mary Ann Meyer Santana.

Share the equipment: During peak hours, it is common for multiple people to be using the same equipment. Please be mindful of how much time you use a piece of equipment, and let others in to take turns using the machines, weights, and benches. If you notice someone waiting, offer to let them work in between your sets. If you are waiting, please be kind when asking if you can work in your sets.

Together, we can create a positive and respectful atmosphere by following these universal gym etiquette tips. Remember that everyone is there to work toward their fitness goals and that we should all support each other in achieving them.

If you notice a member who is not following general etiquette, please kindly find a Fitness staff member who will be glad to address the situation.

Maddy Sweeney FITNESS & WELLNESS MANAGER

FACES OF MAC

Karate Kid

Ben Drinkward was diagnosed with autism at the age of 4, but it took years for his family members to fully believe it. “He was always the happiest, easiest, most caring kid,” says his mother, Erin Drinkward. “As the first child on both sides of our family, it was difficult to see his differences. It was obvious he was a gentle, kind, quiet, smart, pleaser of a child, and he has stayed that way.”

Erin says Ben won’t even pick flowers because he doesn’t want them to die. He loves to watch movies and TV shows and learn about animals, the Earth, and the environment. He is a big supporter of wildlife charities and in lieu of gifts, he often asks for donations to the zoo and similar organizations.

Karate might not be the first sport that comes to mind for such a gentle soul, but that’s exactly where Ben has found his personal sweet spot.

“Over the years, we had many team sports drop off as options due to coaches being more and more concerned Ben would be injured.

Top-Ranked Racquetballer

Anyone who’s ever wandered around the subbasement of MAC may have crossed paths with Camden Schnebly. A 16-year-old sophomore at Lincoln High School, Camden has been running around MAC and competing in racquet sports from a young age. He’s followed in the footsteps of his mom, Phoebe Trubowitz, who is a squash champion, and his brother, Rowan Schnebly, who also competed

He struggles to maintain focus and is easily distracted by memories and his imagination. Because of that, it became obvious he would be an individual sport kid. We knew Ben needed a physical outlet, and he has been doing tennis, golf, and swimming, in addition to karate,” Erin says.

Ben first started taking karate around age 8, and the family instantly knew it was going to be a great fit. “We had been told by his developmental pediatrician and occupational therapists that karate was good for his spatial and body awareness. What we didn’t know yet was how great it was going to be for his ability to follow directions, watch and take cues from other students, and understand what it feels like to work toward something and be rewarded for it.”

Erin explains that children with autism often are unable to watch and follow along with other kids, making Ben’s progress all the more thrilling to watch. “Plus, Bill (Plapinger) was simply the perfect sensei for him. He was firm but understanding, and I loved that

he didn’t treat Ben differently than the other students. He understood that Ben was capable of doing what he was asked and held him to it. Even though Ben gets frustrated at times, he loves and respects Bill always.”

The other aspect of karate that keeps Ben coming back is the belt test system. No matter how much he adores the activity, he doesn’t love going to class all the time. As the family supported Ben during his preparation for the orange belt test, he was going through a period where he didn’t want to go, which left Erin

Continued on page 13

in squash and was the No. 1 racquetball player on the Lincoln High School team last year. He competed nationally in squash in U11s and U13s, achieving a ranking in the top 10 nationally at one point — a testament to his quickness, power, and athleticism.

He has always been a multi-sport athlete, and these days are no different. In the fall, it’s football. In the winter, he’s zipping down the mountain with the Lincoln Snowboard team, and year-round, he is passionate about lacrosse, playing high school varsity, as well as club level for Team Oregon. Plus, he’s still managed to find time to play on the Lincoln Racquetball team this year. His very good hand-eye coordination and court vision have been put to good use on the MAC Racquetball Courts. Though he was new to the sport this summer, by the time the team

competed against other schools, he was jumping up the rankings.

By the end of the season, Camden had made his way all the way to fifth in the state after going undefeated in three league matches. He was the top player on the Lincoln Racquetball team, meaning that he would compete in the No. 1 division at the state tournament. He entered three separate divisions, vying for the title in boy #1 singles, boys #1 doubles with Julian Krozel, and mixed #1 doubles with Elle Newton. When the dust had settled after three grueling days of competition, he came away with three gold medals, sweeping every division he was able to enter and ended up as the top-ranked boy in the state. Congratulations to Camden for his outstanding performance at the Oregon High School Racquetball State Tournament, and good luck in the upcoming high school nationals.

BRANDON DAVIS

FACES OF MAC

Continued from page 11 considering quitting. Fortunately, the belt test experience was amazing for him, both report.

“Ben was prouder of himself than I had ever seen him before. It renewed his excitement about karate in a lot of ways. It also just boosted his confidence.” Several years — and one pandemic — later, he again felt like quitting, but Ben was buoyed by his blue belt test, which turned out even better. “I think anyone who was in that room saw how excited and proud he was. He told me after that he ‘just couldn’t get the smile off of his face.’ It was pure gold. The ceremony around the belt test is just so warm and encouraging, and I loved it.”

Now 13, Ben gets to do just about everything his brothers and sisters do, something both Erin and her husband Dave ensure. They say they’re big on giving their kids every kind of experience they can. The Drinkwards hike, camp, ski, raft, snorkel, and so much more together whenever they can. “Karate does this for him on a level we can’t. It’s also given him independence. He enters MAC, finds his way to Joe’s, buys drinks and snacks, and then finds us afterward, all on his own. It’s pretty cool to have a place where this can happen safely and securely.

“We are pretty happy with how karate has rounded out Ben’s life and want to thank MAC and Sensei Bill for allowing Ben to grow in this way.”

House Committee Monthly Report

House Committee enforces rules of conduct for members and guests by investigating infractions and recommending sanctions to the Board of Trustees. Recent board actions are listed below.

• An 18-year-old intermediate member was suspended for six months for Lending Membership Credentials and Disregard for Guest and or/Event Attendees Policy. This member shared their credentials with nonmembers, who then used the shared credentials to access the club and incorrectly checked in their guests.

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Board Accepts Campus Master Plan Report

I am happy to share that the Board of Trustees accepted the Campus Master Plan proposal, which was presented at the Feb. 1 Board of Trustees meeting. The proposal is the culmination of a two-year discovery and planning process and includes renderings of potential projects and a possible phasing plan for implementation of facility enhancements over the next 20 years and beyond.

Proposed projects now go through MAC’s formal committee approval process via the Portfolio Management Office to begin validating, prioritizing, and planning. This includes engaging the club’s committees on sequencing, designs, and funding options.

I’d like to thank the membership for their engagement and inputs into this process, as well as those who have served on the CMP Ad Hoc Committee over the past two years. We believe that the efforts put forth by the membership and committee members helped to create a proposal that aligns with the club’s vision while factoring in diverse perspectives.

A new, long-term strategic ad hoc committee now forms under former President Mary Turina’s leadership. The ad hoc will serve as a framing group on long-term, multi-year projects like CMP. Individual ad hoc committees will be assembled along the way to provide input on specific projects. It’s exciting to see the club take another step toward enhancing facilities and member experiences.

— Bev Davis, Chair, Former CMP Ad Hoc Committee

Could This Be the Future of MAC?

The concepts shown in these renderings — shaped from member feedback, guidance from the ad hoc committee, and architecture firm Gensler’s research and industry knowledge — represent four potential projects envisioned in the Campus Master Plan. The final details of the projects will be refined and adapted as needed as they move through the master planning process. 1 2 3

Rendering 1 shows what the clubhouse entry could look like with a lounge area added to what is now the reading room. The intent of the concept is to draw members and nonmembers into the space and provide views into the club and Providence Park, adding a sense of excitement on game night while also putting the club’s community on display.

Rendering 2 represents a coffee shop and coworking space with access to an outdoor seating area in what is now the Member Services area behind the front desk.

Rendering 3 shows a cocktail lounge opposite the coffee shop on the first floor. During the day, it is imagined that the lounge would still be a quiet space available for relaxing, working, or reading.

Rendering 4 demonstrates a repurposing of the outdoor tennis courts on the fifth floor, enclosing the space and adding four dedicated pickleball courts with a viewing area. Also shown is a passthrough and viewing area for the tennis courts on the opposite side.

Rendering 5 shows a refreshed Sun Deck Pool and social area with a more open, welcoming environment for members.

Rendering 6 (opposite) represents a new addition to the southwest side of the building. This expansion would allow for new studio and flex space, as well as a rooftop pool, hot tub, and social area.

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MAC DEI SURVEY

Help MAC better serve your needs, as well as your hopes for the future of the club. Starting April 22, you're invited to take a short survey to share a bit more about you and inform MAC's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts going forward.

Scan the QR code below to get started!

Family Events Committee’s Father-Daughter Dance Returns

Eric O’Connor of the Family Events Committee never imagined himself being a MAC member. “That’s for other people, not me,” he recalls thinking.

Then the parents of one of his daughter’s school friends invited his family to a Family Friday event. “We were impressed,” he says. “The idea that this kind of programming could be available to our family on a regular basis was intriguing. So, when the MAC launched their Big Draw initiative in 2021, we took the plunge and became members.”

In an effort to make inroads into the MAC community, he decided to volunteer for one of the club’s many committees. And, since his daughter was a big part of the reason why his family joined, the Family Events Committee seemed like a natural fit. “Having served now for a year, I am even more impressed with the work that goes on behind the scenes, on the part of both volunteers and club staff, to bring so many wonderful events to our community,” he states.

The first event he participated in as a committee member was the annual FatherDaughter Dance. “My daughter and I attended and had a wonderful time,” he says.

Long a staple of the MAC calendar, the dance returns on May 19, 20, and 21. It’s a chance for fathers and daughters to dress up, enjoy a delicious dinner buffet, and dance the night away. Attendees can garnish their

attire with corsages and boutonnieres available for pre-purchase or capture memories with a professional portrait by Jal Duncan Photography. This year’s theme is “The World’s Your Oyster.” Registration is now open at themac.com. SFE0519, SFE0520, or SFE0521

Easter Craft Day

Thursday, April 6

Junior Lounge Egg Hunt 2:30 p.m. Friday, April 7

Ping Pong Tournament 4:30-5:30 p.m. Thursday, April 13

High School Musical Movie Marathon 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 18

Earth Day Crafts

Saturday, April 22

Air Hockey Tournament 4:30-5:30 p.m. Monday, April 24

Mario Kart Tournament 3-4 p.m. Wednesday, April 26

WEEKLY EVENTS

Recess Games

Mondays in the Main Gym

Chess/Checkers Open Play

Thursdays in the Fitness Room Gallery

Puzzle Day

The Family Events Committee hosts a myriad of annual events that sell out quickly, including the Mother-Son Party in September; Trunk or Treat in October; Family Concert in November; and Mother-Daughter Tea, Children’s Holiday Party, and Family New Year’s Eve in December.

Eric O’Connor and his daughter, Violet, at last year’s event

2023 Sponsors & Partners

BIG WHEELS

• Charles Schwab

• Steve & Sally Elorriaga

• The Usher Family

DERAILLEUR

• Empirical Wealth Management

• Mind Matters, PC

• Patrick Lumber

HANDLEBARS

• Bill & Colleen Gardner

• Dougherty Laybourn Menashe Dental

• Gensler

• The Partners Group

• Kathy Schroeder & Tom Gustafson

• The Women of the MAC Board

• The Women of the MAC Past Presidents

SPOKES

• O + I Develop

• Providence Health Plan

• Rose City Awning and Flag

• Vision Capital Management

PEDALS

• Alloro Winery

• Columbia Grain

• Crowley Wines

• Cycle Oregon Gravel Ride

• Hillsboro Hops

• Jenny & Sam Kim

• Nossa Familia Coffee

• Oregon Ballet Theater

• Orange Torpedo Trips

• Evan & Rebecca Roberts

• Rose City Futsal

• Rose City Rollers

• Multnomah Athletic Club

$46,000 Powers Possibilities For Youth

The Multnomah Athletic Foundation is delighted that members helped raise $46,000 during MAF Week 2023. The foundation is even more excited about what that money means for students throughout the greater Portland area — students like Auveen Hajar, one of three recipients of the 2022 Loprinzi Award Scholarships. Now a first-year student at the University of Oregon, Hajar was previously student body president at Sunset High School, where he regularly tutored younger students and helped organize a fund drive during the pandemic to raise $20,000 for vulnerable community members. Hajar is using his $8,000 Loprinzi Scholarship while majoring in Human Physiology at the University of Oregon and has his sights set on medical school in the future.

The money also funds community grants for organizations like Active Children Portland. The organization, which offers soccer programs, nutrition programming, and academic support, serves more than 1,200 students at 32 metro-area schools and has been a grant partner with the Multnomah Athletic Foundation since 2013.

Simply put, the foundation could not offer these scholarships and grants without help from MAC and would like to express enthusiastic gratitude to a community that understands and supports the power of possibilities. During the first-ever MAF Week, so many members and staff supported this event as the foundation found new ways to bring its mission to life.

Foundation Fuels Hands-On Philanthropy and Skill-Building for Youth

Fall Program Invites Curious and Collaborative Seventh and Eighth Graders

As any parent today knows, trying to find engaging after-school activities for students can be quite a task. When classes and lessons fill up quickly and camps have waitlists, where can one turn to ensure that the young person in their lives is engaged in activities that peak their interests?

Enter the Multnomah Athletic Foundation. For the last six years, the foundation has been running a multi-week program on Sundays through the fall called the Youth Grant Initiative (YGI). Each year, YGI teaches curious and passionate seventh and eighth graders about community involvement through hands-on philanthropy. Program participants create positive change by awarding $5,000 in grants to local nonprofit organizations.

In speaking to 2022 program members Miles Liu and Nari Bates, it’s clear that this initiative is a place where students come not only to learn about grantmaking and a multitude of Portland nonprofits, but to also boost their confidence, learn life skills, and collaborate with their peers.

“Everyone has different ideas on what they think is best and what is the best organization to choose. YGI taught me how to collaborate and also speak my ideas while being respectful of others,” Liu shares. “I remember in seventh grade, during speech and debate class, I went to the bathroom for the entire period

MAF Tributes

because I was so scared of doing my introduction speech. After YGI, I’ve gained much more confidence speaking in front of other people. Recently, I earned a larger speaking role on my robotics team for an important presentation.”

Both Liu and Bates agree that the main takeaway from the Youth Grant Initiative was conversation-based. “I learned how to work with other people better. I learned how to listen to other people’s opinions and more professionally disagree or agree with them and to really work off each other in the group,” Bates says.

The Youth Grant Initiative is targeted toward seventh and eighth graders for a very specific reason: there’s a lack of similar programs for this age group. Bates stated, “Students should apply because I think it gives a really good understanding of basic knowledge around philanthropy. And I think a lot of people don’t have that knowledge because they aren’t provided with any of the information. I feel like YGI was a good way to get that knowledge across. It was a really good program, and it taught me a lot in a short amount of time.”

YGI creates a cohort of seven to twelve students who spend six Sundays through the fall learning about philanthropy, grantmaking, consensus building, collaboration, and teamwork. Cohort members at the end of the

Honor someone special or memorialize someone who has passed away by making a tribute gift to the Multnomah Athletic Foundation. Tributes are typically noted as memorial, anniversary, get well, birthday, or recognition.

April tributes are listed below, with the honored individuals’ names in bold.

Sally Broughton (memorial) — William Hulley

Beverly Hallman Butterworth (memorial) — Kathryn Tiedy

Reidun Zander (memorial) — Barbie & Burke Rice

experience are much more open to sharing ideas, disagreeing respectfully, and lifting up the voices of the entire group. “It might seem scary at first,” states Liu, “but you get to learn a lot and then as you meet more people it’s really fun. YGI also helps with time management for schoolwork and other things in your life, like how to communicate with people. I would recommend the program.”

For families looking for an engaging and enriching program for their students to enroll in for the fall term, consider the Youth Grant Initiative. The program is open to any middle schooler in the Portland metro area. Applications open on May 1 for the 2023 cohort. For more information or to apply, go to MultnomahAthleticFoundation.com.

Miles Liu and Nari Bates

Multnomah Athletic Foundation provides community grants and post-secondary scholarships focused on increasing access in sports and education in the Portland metropolitan area. Contributions made to the foundation are tax-deductible. A written acknowledgment and tax receipt will be mailed following the contribution.

Craddock & Hankins Courses

“It’s

-Bruce (The Goat)

IN MEMORIAM

Lisa Williams Burnham Nov. 19, 1961-Jan. 15, 2023

Lisa passed away with her son and husband by her side on Jan. 15 after a 12-year battle with breast cancer.

Lisa was born Nov. 19, 1961, in Dallas, Texas, to Bill and Elizabeth Williams. She attended St. Rita Catholic School followed by Ursuline Academy in Dallas. Lisa studied at SMU and held many fond memories with her sister Sharon, her brothers, and her Phi Mu Sorority sisters. She also had the opportunity to study abroad in Madrid, Spain, and Moscow, Russia.

Upon graduating from SMU with a political science degree, she moved to Washington, D.C. to work for Congressman Ralph Hall. She had many memorable experiences, from touring military bases to attending Embassy parties. Throughout her life, she continued her quest to travel as much as possible, trying to see all corners of the world.

She was fortunate that Congressman Hall’s office was next door to the delegate from Guam where her future husband, Carl Burnham, worked. They met in the elevator and ultimately married in Dallas, Texas, on June 4, 1988. They then moved to what she described as a large town in Portland, where Lisa became a licensed realtor and spent several years as a real estate agent. Lisa’s next years were devoted to raising her children and enjoying watching them grow into the adults they are today. She was looking forward to becoming a grandmother this coming March.

Lisa was on the St. Clare School board for many years and engaged in numerous volunteer activities as the kids got older and moved off to school. Until she passed, Lisa had her dream job as the business development director for St. Andrews Nativity School, where she was able to give back to the community

and help those in need. Her true strengths shined while working on a mission she was passionate about.

She was preceded in death by her father, Bill Williams Sr.; and brother, Louie. She is survived by her husband, Carl; three children, Katherine, Madeline, and Chase (Ann Chapin); her mother, Elizabeth Williams; siblings, Bill Williams Jr. (Suzy), Joe Williams (Cynthia), Sharon Knox (Chris), Jim Williams (Sally); and 14 nieces and nephews.

In memory of Lisa, contributions may be made to St. Andrew’s Nativity School in Portland.

Neil E. Hokkanen Jr.

July 15, 1934-July 13, 2022

Neil E. Hokkanen Jr. was born July 15, 1934, in Portland, to Neil and Florence Hokkanen. He attended Franklin High School and enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he earned the rank of sergeant. He met his future wife, Donna, while they were both working for IBM. He attended night school at Portland State University, graduating with a B.S. in finance/ accounting. He had a long career as the VP of finance for Oregon Auto Insurance Company.

Outside of work, Neil was an avid handball and tennis player and became a Master National Doubles Tennis champion representing the Multnomah Athletic Club. He encouraged his children and grandchildren to be active, to appreciate the outdoors, and to explore the world. In retirement, he enjoyed traveling, reading, hiking, biking, golfing, fishing and took up an interest in cooking and baking. One of his favorite pastimes was playing blackjack, and in recent years, trips to Reno were more enjoyable when accompanied by a grandchild.

Neil was preceded in death by his wife, LaDonna Belle Hokkanen, and son, Bret D. Hokkanen. He is survived by his son, Mark Hokkanen, and wife Shannon of Beaverton; daughter Nikki Webb and husband Brad of Yachats; daughter-in-law Lin Hokkanen of Portland; eight grandchildren, Brianna Beninati (Bradley), Erik Hokkanen, Madeline Webb, Shawn Hokkanen, Bryn Hokkanen, Elliott Webb, Blake Hokkanen, and Trace Hokkanen; and one great-grandchild, Bella Beninati.

It was Neil’s wish to be cremated and have his remains, along with their dog Maggie’s, be spread over Donna’s final resting place. In lieu of flowers, please send any remembrance contributions to Deschutes River Alliance.

Not Me, Us

New President Nathan Ayotte Would Rather Shine the Spotlight on Others

By Jake Ten Pas Photo by Brandon Davis

Nathan Ayotte is that rare leader who isn’t afraid to speak his mind when the time is right but also would prefer to talk about himself as little as possible. The new President of MAC’s Board of Trustees is a true consensus-builder who’s comfortable in the spotlight when it serves the purposes of the community on behalf of which he’s advocating. But he’d prefer to illuminate the efforts of others working to achieve the common goal.

“Being the president — or the chair of a committee — is not about knowing the most or being the most well-rounded. It’s about who can make the group work the best. How do you facilitate? Can you make the collective better?” Ayotte asserts and asks at the same time, illustrating the mix of thinking, listening, and acting that has defined his time on the board, as well as the Budget & Finance and Athletic Committees.

“Former club president George Spencer is an amazing leader, but he also has a way of leading through action and collaboration. He understands how to make you feel heard but also give you insight and help you come to productive conclusions,” he says by way of example, citing the Multnomah Athletic Foundation board director emeritus, who also continues to offer advice to MAC’s Board of Trustees long after his own time serving as its president.

Ayotte, who is a principal at Ferguson Wellman Capital Management Co., also can’t say enough about one of his professional mentors, fellow MAC member Jim Rudd. The retired CEO of Ferguson Wellman is “all about integrity,” according to Ayotte. “He’s open, but he would never do anything that would put someone else in a bad position. He’s very forthcoming. He listens and he leads with honesty, and that’s inspiring. I’ve learned a lot from him.”

Get this president talking on the subject of leadership, and the names of excellent examples pour forth in a deluge. From Janice Marquis to Holly Lekas, Rob Torch to Darcy Henderson, individuals who’ve gone above and beyond in service to the club community give Ayotte a strong sense of his place in a living legacy. While he doesn’t necessarily belittle his own contributions and hopes for the future, he does see himself as one piece in a Lego set that’s been building for 130-plus years, and which has the potential to keep on for just as long.

“One of the things that’s really great about the company I work for is that we dedicate a lot of our time to being involved in the community, and our mantra is, ‘If you’re going to dedicate your time to be involved, lead,” Ayotte says. “I get to be on the board here for three years, and I hope that we make a big impact, but the impact that I’m ultimately going to make is beyond that. I’m going to be present, involved, and offering to help out for many years to come. Our team isn’t just the twelve people serving as trustees now; it extends to people who’ve volunteered for MAC in the past and will continue to involve others in the future.”

This firm sense of perspective might come from Ayotte’s strong familial bonds, from which he draws as much inspiration and motivation as he does from his business and club colleagues. He credits his grandfather, Herman Miller, with piquing his interest in investing. As a child, Ayotte would take “ideas” — like the latest toy company he’d discovered — to his grandfather, who would educate him about the company and the stock market.

Likewise, Ayotte’s parents fostered a sense of infinite possibility in him when he was young, something that he and his wife, Ella, hope to pass along to their daughters, Nathalie and Katherine. “My mother and father were really good parents. They were interested in me, they spent time with me, they cared and wanted to know what I was all about. That just gives you room to grow. When I think about our girls, I just want to be present. You must be present to win is the way to say it. If you’re there, you’re going to share in the experience, and if you aren’t, then you’re going to miss it.”

If you’ve never seen a MAC president’s face light up, ask Ayotte about his family. He loves spending time with them, whether it’s playing tennis together, traveling the world, or finding a great new restaurant. Truthfully, he’d probably rather tell you all about them than himself, which is in keeping with his whole demeanor.

“I would be shocked if George Spencer, Jim Rudd, or any of the other people we’ve just talked about have ever said a self-promoting thing about themselves. That’s just not how they work, and that’s makes perfect sense to me.”

Consistency is Key to Calm Seas

For the Board, Moving MAC Forward Means Teamwork and Thoughtful Transitions

By Jake Ten Pas

Photos by Brandon Davis

Ifthere’s a soundtrack to the collective hopes and dreams of 2023, it might just be yacht rock. The world can sound pretty tumultuous to sensitive ears these days, and everyone’s just looking for a little smooth sailing. That’s exactly what MAC’s Board of Trustees hopes to give them.

New President Nathan Ayotte has taken the wheel from his predecessor, Mary Turina, and any passengers of the good ship MAC who weren’t watching the deck likely didn’t notice the changing of the shift. The Sun Deck didn’t even tilt.

In addition to the club’s establishment of a Portfolio Management Office in recent years to ensure fluid identification and reprioritization of club needs, the timeline for board transitions was moved up in 2022, creating even more consistency from one class of

trustees to another. Now, officers are chosen while the previous class is still firmly in place, increasing collaboration and giving the new president, vice president, treasurer, and secretary time to settle into their roles with the steadying hand of their forerunner ready for the assist.

As Ayotte and Turina sat down at the Pink Rabbit in the Pearl for this interview, their camaraderie was instantly apparent. And as the yearly presidential Q&A traces their relationship back to time spent on the Doernbecher Children’s Hospital Board, it becomes increasingly clear that MAC is on course for yet more breathtaking ports of call. Sit back, crank Summer Breeze, and enjoy the soft, soothing sounds of the waves gently rolling from one leadership shore to the next.

This is the second year that you held the elections earlier. Tell me a little bit about why you did that, and what it might have gotten you in terms of an advantage in the coming year?

Mary Turina: We followed what Rob Torch’s year did, which was the idea that, if we hold the election in early January, then the incoming officers have a chance to shadow the existing officers and really start training and thinking through the issues.

We found that to be pretty important as we were going through COVID and dealing with significant issues where we couldn’t simply say, “Here you go. My email’s cut off on Feb. 8, now you’re the president, and off you go.”

There’s got to be more transition. The president is the manager for the general manager

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Consistency is Key to Calm Seas

Continued from page 25

and actually oversees that work. Bringing Nathan into our check-ins with the GM [Charles Leverton], to go through his performance review goal-setting for 2023, just aligned with strategy and makes a lot of sense.

I think it’s really important. It also aligns with Nathan’s goal of, “Let’s figure out how to make board service at MAC be something that’s possible and approachable for all kinds of members.” Meaning you don’t have to be retired to serve on the board. Nathan works full-time. He’s one of the few presidents who worked full-time in recent years.

Nathan Ayotte: I think the key word is consistency. Having a consistent environment where everybody understands their

roles provides a better environment for efficiency, so people can enjoy their lives beyond being on the board, including participating in MAC activities and using our facilities. It also creates consistency for staff and, specifically, for Charles.

If we want to have a productive, positive GM and leadership team, we need to create an environment for him that is supportive. Charles needs to have relationships with all 12 trustees, understand what’s coming around the corner, and have the people that he’s working with support him and his team.

We want to get away from that. We want to create an environment where he feels like he has 12 people who are a part of a team, they transition over a three-year period, and he just keeps bringing in new people. So it feels very easy and consistent.

The relationship between the trustees and Charles is important. Every person’s role is different, but consistent support and teamwork will bring more success.

We discussed making board service more attainable for people who might not be retired, so you’re not limiting who can apply or be nominated, last year, Mary. Do you feel like you were able to make headway over the past year?

MT: I do. Part of it was just the timing and where we were at with the pandemic. During the first two years of the pandemic, Will [Lee] and Rob had daily meetings with Charles.

We were able to get into a rhythm of having a weekly check-in and communicating in a smart way. We’d get issues or questions from trustees on Monday, I’d send them to Charles on Tuesday, we’d have our check-in, and then I’d report back out to the board.

We’re just trying to run MAC more like a business would and getting the board up into governance and out of operations as much as possible.

I think Nathan, and his group of officers and trustees, will continue that work of saying, “We’ve got a really smart GM and a great Executive Leadership Team and Senior Leadership Team. Let them do their job and let the trustees focus on governance and thinking about strategy and the future. Not being bogged down into day-to-day operations.”

NA: Think of it this way — in each of the three trustee classes, there are people who work full-time outside of the home, people who work part-time, and people who are retired but very active in the community. More than half of our board are full-time working people who work outside the home.

We’re trying to make it so that the role of a trustee doesn’t require you to be anything specific. Rather, we want engaged members with specific skill sets who care about the club.

The other way that we broke that down is to say, “You don’t need to have served on all these committees. You can come in if you have something to offer that fits the needs of the board at that time. If you have some experience, and you have a passion for the club, we’d love to have you be involved.” Once we do that, it makes it a lot easier to get anybody involved, and that’s a really good thing for the club.

We need structures to help the MAC capture the skills and attributes of our members. That’s the concept behind the Past Presidents Committee, which currently is being discussed. If we’re going to reduce our experience on the board from a committee standpoint, from a historical standpoint, why don’t we bring in an advisory role from a committee that gives us that texture, that experience, that past?”

That’s a really valuable thing for our club. We don’t want to lose what makes us great; we want to make it better for everyone.

MT: I had the benefit of meeting with this group of past presidents quite regularly throughout my year, and Nathan came to our last coffee meeting and really had some good thoughts. He asked, how do you take this group of 44 past presidents and make it a smaller group that could do some work?

For example, we used to do demographic studies at the MAC every four or five years, partnering with PSU. Why did we stop? That’s critical data that we need for our strategy, for our DEI work, everything. What happened?

We used to do more with our strategic planning. Why did that stop? It’s just trying to understand the pieces that we don’t have pre-Charles.

Right now, the club is doing a great job of documenting everything, and everything is in the corporate record. But there was a lot of long-term memory and understanding that resided pre-COVID. We’re trying to look back and find, “Where are those thoughts and ideas?”

Previously, we had a long-term GM who kept a lot in his mind, and that didn’t necessarily translate into good documentation and storage, which also is a sign of the times. We now have the systems to be able to document and store. Past presidents and past trustees can help us fill in the blanks with, “Oh yeah, I worked on that, and I wrote that memo when I did that lease.” That can help us provide some important information.

NA: That is the perfect example of not having a foundation in place that creates that continuity, that consistency. Because what happens is, you get people into a new role, they don’t know what they’re supposed to be doing, and they fill it with whatever they think is appropriate. That’s not a bad thing; they’re just trying to do the best they can.

If trustees and members have a better understanding of the history, then they can iterate. Then we can say, “We’ve done this in the past. Let’s get more information from that.” Our staff does that, always. That’s what Charles does. Every year he’s building on what he started.

Our governance needs to happen that way. In a perfect world, you have the committees giving the member perspective, you have Charles and his staff giving the operational perspective, and you have the board working on long-term strategy and governance.

We’re helping make decisions that ultimately impact the members, and were created by the members, through strategy, as well as making sure that they carry through.

If you don’t have that consistency, it’s bumpy. You’re not able to move forward in a productive way.

MT: Without that consistency, your governance tends to be more knee-jerk and reactionary, as opposed to strategically thinking about the future based upon all this input. We want to move the club in this direction.”

Board members are the ones who get to think about, “Where should the club be in 5, 10, 20 years? What are the actions that we’re taking now, among committees and staff, to help us get there?”

If the board is constantly sucked into the latest operational challenge — “How are we going to get the snow and ice off of the barrel roof without injuring anybody?” for instance — then everyone is thinking about the problem of today and not recognizing that we’ve got to be thinking much further out.

NA: We want people who decide to take on the responsibility of being a trustee to feel like what they’re doing is valuable. We want them to add value to the club, and we want them to come from all different areas, backgrounds, perspectives, so that we can make the club better. The only way you can do that is by creating an environment that separates them from day-to-day operations, which are handled by the management team and provides them a process to work within.

MT: Nathan and I have partnered on thinking through the way our bylaws work. Every single decision made at the club ultimately has to go to the board.

You could spend an entire 10-hour board meeting reviewing decisions, or you can delegate the decision-making to our committees, which we do. We’ve got 552 members or so on these incredible committees who are thoughtfully evaluating and making recommendations to the board. At the end of the day, it’s all about, “How do we allocate resources?” Sounds like you two are pretty well aligned and work well together.

NA: Mary and I served on the Doernbecher Children’s Hospital board together. That’s the first time I met her, and she was amazing. She was in charge. She was the boss. We just had a really amazing relationship and a wonderful situation.

You suggest a great question, Nathan. Just who is the audience for a conversation about governance? I wonder how many people at the club know who the current president is, and how many are just here to work out. As long as that goes smoothly, they don’t need to know about the processes that ensures dayto-day functionality.

NA: I think that, if we’re doing our jobs correctly, the majority of people feel the second way you mentioned, right? They enjoy the club, and they’re not concerned.

But for those who do, we want to make sure we’re communicating. That’s what we continue to strive to do better every year. Whatever the hot topic is, improving communication is so important. The more we can help people understand what we’re doing and what’s happening in the club, the better off we’re going to be.

MT: Sometimes you get surprised by fellow members paying attention. I was at the club this morning, because now, I just show up to work out and have fun…

NA: Do you have cards with my email on it that you just hand to everyone?

MT: Exactly. So, I’m there working out, and I go back into the locker room. This woman I’ve never met before comes up to me and she says, “I want to thank you so much for all your hard work as president. I imagine it’s a lot of work.”

I said, “Well, yeah, but it’s really rewarding. Thank you for saying something.” That’s actually happened to me many times. It can be easy to think that you’re anonymous. I had different hair when I took my board picture, so I thought, “They won’t recognize me with this short hair.”

NA: You’re smart. Maybe I should shave my head or something (laughs).

If the average person doesn’t know what we do, that’s okay. But if they want to know more, understand, or be involved, that’s great. Not everybody has to understand how it works. We just want them to, if they’re curious, be able to get that information.

MT: And we want them to enjoy it. The club is where our members go to recreate, and that is just the biggest thing. It’s their workout; it’s their family. Their child might be dropped off after school there by the school bus. There are constant opportunities for classes, for all kinds of different growth. People just want it to be their second home. How do we help facilitate that, be quiet about it, and not raise their dues too much? That’s what they mostly notice.

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Consistency is Key to Calm Seas

Continued from page 27

As a writer who takes satisfaction from seeing his words in print on a regular basis, it strikes me that a lot of the work that you do on the board might be on projects that you weren’t there for the beginning of, and you might not be there at the end. It seems a bit ephemeral. How do you look back at the last year and measure your accomplishments? How do you look ahead at the next year and come to terms with the fact that you might not be there to see something across the finish line?

NA: I think the answer is that we’re stewards. We do our best to try to move the club forward in a positive way. We don’t get to choose whether or not there’s COVID, and we can’t control what’s happening in the world that might impact us. We have to adjust accordingly.

The way that we manage the consistency is the structure of our board. What is not accomplished by me, hopefully, will be accomplished by the class behind me or the class behind them. What Mary started, I hope to finish or carry to someone else.

That’s a big part of what being on a board is about. It’s bigger than you. As president, I’m not there to do anything that is personally advantageous to me. I’m there to represent the club, and every member, and try and move us forward in a way that is productive. It’s not just me, this is true for the team of 12 trustees.

I think that a big part of what ultimately gets accomplished is carried out by our staff. We govern. We have ideas. We give perspective. We work on strategy. But the committee system and our staff are what really makes the club run.

MT: One hundred percent. You start with ideas. You think about what’s going to happen. The best thing that we could do is have a strategic plan that we’re trying to stay focused on.

We’re trying to build our infrastructure, focus on member experience, and make sure that we’re financially sound. We’re also trying to think about the future. Those are the tenets that you keep coming back to, and you make micro moves toward them each year.

You pass the baton, and the next group of trustees comes forward, executes, and keeps driving forward that work that you’re trying to achieve. So, its incremental. I agree that staff

provides the consistency, because as trustees, we’re volunteers who transition over a threeyear period.

Staff has the memory, the systems, and expectation of, “You need to go forth and do this.” We create the goals for staff, and it’s really critical to make sure that they are achieved.

NA: There really is no ego in this role. From the outside looking in, it feels like there might be. But there really isn’t. You’re not compensated. You know, we get a parking space. At the end of the day, we’re doing it because we care.

You’re there because you care about the club, and you want to make it better. There’s no way that I, myself, can make it better. I’m going to rely on my fellow trustees. I’m going to rely on Charles, staff, and committees. My job, and the rest of the trustee’s job together, is to make sure that we are heading in the correct direction.

We try to think about, “If we’re making a decision, how does it impact everyone else? How does it impact staff? What does it mean to that member?” We have to look at all of those things, take all that data, think about it, and then decide. It’s a big responsibility. How do we move forward?” That’s the hard part.

MT: This club has been around a long time, and it doesn’t move quickly. Moving quickly actually is to the detriment. As we came off COVID, we made a lot of changes. Some of those were necessary because of staffing, and some were an opportunity to make a change. It was a lot of change for our membership. People ask me why I was so disheartened by some of the Sounding Boards, and I’ve said a couple of things in my past columns about Sounding Boards. It was because they became so unkind and really, in many cases, disrespectful — to the club, to leadership, and staff — to the point that we’ve got club staff who were thinking, “I’m just constantly being criticized.”

That says to me that we made a lot of change that was perhaps too fast. In some cases, we made change that was too slow. We couldn’t keep up with the class registration needs of our family members.

NA: We’re volunteers, and we have a finite amount of time that we are involved. There are people who work at this club. This is their livelihood, what they do, and how they identify. To have someone publicly put something out that’s disrespectful is inappropriate.

We need to humanize the way we treat each other. Not just fellow members but also the

people who work here. COVID has taught us some really bad habits, and people need to be nicer to each other. We’re going to focus on that.

It’s not the feedback that is bad. We want the feedback. It’s the delivery. It seems like there’s some attention being given right now to attracting top talent, the idea of growing Multnomah Athletic Club’s reputation as a great place to work. What’s on your radar in that realm?

NA: Charles has done — and continues to do — a great job. He’s on top of this. He works really hard to help mentor employees, provide opportunities for them, create consistent work descriptions, and understanding of structure. He does a really wonderful job of communicating.

It is very hard in Portland, in this country, to hire good people right now. It’s a competitive work environment. Last year we increased a number of initiatives in regards to HR. We are very focused on continuing to make MAC a great place to work, as is Charles.

MT: I would add, we’ve got an HR Committee that now has HR professionals serving on it, who are really focused on, “How do we make MAC a competitive employer?”

There are so many things that we don’t actually articulate about how awesome it is to work at MAC. We don’t create a total benefit summary because there’s comp, there are healthcare benefits, and all that. Additionally, you have access to work out at an amazing gym. You have parking and reduced meals.

I mean, there are so many ways employees can have an opportunity to thrive and bring children in, depending upon the level of the employee.

To me, it’s all about, “How do we communicate and share the story about what these great opportunities are?”

NA: From a staffing standpoint, though, I think it’s really important to remind ourselves, as board trustees, that that is Charles’ responsibility. We set the framework and the outcome that we would want, and he fills the roles. He’s done a wonderful job of that, and it’s our job to provide feedback, to get feedback from committees and members, and make sure that we’re working in an appropriate direction.

Ultimately, we may say, “We need this,” and he’s going to hire the person who’s going to provide that. We’re supporting his decisions, and that’s why having a good GM is really important.

Anything else you want to make sure readers know about?

NA: Mary and all of the foundational work that she’s done. Our trustee group is basically taking the work that she and prior trustees have done, and we’re building on it. She helped build the foundation.

So much of what we do from a process standpoint, much of the way that we interact with Charles and the club, was set forth by Mary, who has done this for her career. That’s what she does. She’s managed major foundations.

She understands how to make trustees work better, how to make operations work with trustees, how to message all these things that are so important. She just started putting them all in order, and that is a huge deal. When you talked earlier about legacy, that’s something that she’ll always have. It’s not ever going to be in the magazine unless you write it.

MT: It’s not sexy. Mary, what are you excited to see Nathan accomplish in his time on the board, or the trustees collectively?

MT: Nathan has done an incredible job of saying, “It’s all of us, as trustees.” What’s incredible is that we’ve got a team of people. There might be a piece of work that actually should be run by the secretary, for example, because she’s an attorney and she’s got that experience.” Nathan’s really mindful about that. My co-officers were amazing at sharing the workload and leading finance (Kyle), HR (Mike), and the Committee Support Team (Marilyn).

I believe that, because of how Nathan is leading this board, they will achieve more from a strategic standpoint than our class did. They will move us forward faster and create an opportunity for more members to feel like, “I can be part of this team, I can be part of this board, and not have it absolutely overcome my entire life.”

Grilled Spanish Swordfish With Farro Risotto, Roasted Winter Vegetables, Sweet Potato Purée

A Bright, Flavorful Entrée Developed by Executive Chef Philip Oswalt for the Eating for Longevity Cooking Class

Serves Four

Grilled Spanish Swordfish

Ingredients

1 tablespoon Spanish smoked paprika

1 lemon, zested and juiced

1½ ounces olive oil

1 tablespoon coriander

1 tablespoon chili powder

pinch chili flakes

1 tablespoon Italian parsley, chopped

20 ounces fresh swordfish, 4 portions

Directions

1. In a stainless-steel bowl, combine all ingredients. Gently rub swordfish and marinate for 3-4 hours.

2. Grill over medium heat for 5 minutes per side or until the fish is the same color all the way through.

Farro Risotto

Ingredients

3 tablespoons flat-leaf parsley, chopped

1 cup farro

6 cups low-sodium chicken broth

3 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 large shallots, chopped

½ teaspoon kosher salt, divided

½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided

1/3 cup dry white wine

¼ cup pine nuts, toasted

2/3 cup grated aged manchego

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, mix the farro and 4 cups of water. Soak for 30 minutes and drain well.

2. Heat the broth in a small saucepan and keep warm over low heat.

3. In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat the oil and butter over medium heat.

4. Add the shallots and season with ¼ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Cook until softened, about 2 minutes.

5. Add the drained farro and cook, stirring constantly until toasted, about 3 minutes.

6. Add the wine and stir constantly until evaporated, about 2 minutes.

7. Add ½ cup of the hot broth and stir constantly until completely absorbed. Continue adding the remaining broth, ½ cup at a time, until the farro is creamy and cooked through, about 30 minutes.

8. Turn off the heat and stir in the pine nuts, manchego cheese, and the remaining salt and pepper. Transfer to a bowl and reserve.

Continued on page 33

CULINARY CALENDAR

Wine Dinners

Enjoy a five-course dinner with wine from select vintners. Seating is first come, first served, and the cost is $115. Register at themac. com.

Lingua Franca Winery – 6-9 p.m. Thursday, April 6 FBA0406

Silver Oak Cellars – 6-9 p.m. Thursday, April 13 FBY0413

Daou Vineyards & Winery – 6-9 p.m. Thursday, April 20 FBY0420

Skywalker Vineyards – 6-9 p.m. Thursday, May 4 WINE0504 –registration opens at 10 a.m. April 13

Jordan Winery – 6-9 p.m. Thursday, May 18 WINE0523 –registration opens at 10 a.m. April 20

Chateau Montelena Winery – 6-9 p.m. Thursday, May 25

FBY0525- registration opens at 10 a.m. April 27

Host a Summer Celebration or Event at MAC

As the summer months near, visions of dining at Sunset Bistro, hanging out with friends and family at Timbers and Thorns games, and lounging at the Sun Deck Pool come into focus. With many member activities transitioning outdoors during the summer, parts of the club — such as banquet spaces — become quieter, creating opportunities for those spaces to be used in other ways.

While many families enjoy summer break, vacations, and water sports, others are hard at work looking for venues for weddings, anniversaries, bridal showers, baby showers, and business- or community-related events. MAC’s Events and Catering team has availability throughout June, July, and August to host these member milestone celebrations and events for groups of 25 people or more at the club.

The club is an ideal spot for summer events, with custom menus created by Executive Chef Philip Oswalt and Banquet Chef Colton Flinn.

For inquiries into availability and dates, please contact the Events team through the Private Events & Catering page on themac.com.

Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet Spring Lamb Supper Club

Sunday, May 14 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. seatings

Celebrate Mom at MAC with the annual Mother's Day Brunch Buffet.

Registration opens April 17. Reserve your table through themac.com or call At Your Service at 503-517-7235.

FBY0514

Thursday, May 18 6-9 p.m.

Executive Chef Philip Oswalt prepares a themed dinner in 1891 based around hyper-local, seasonal ingredients.

Restaurant Hours

1891 & MACtinis Tuesday-Saturday 4-9 p.m.

Sports Pub Monday-Friday 6 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Saturday 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. & Sunday 11 a.m.-8:30 p.m.

Joe’s Monday-Friday 6 a.m-7 p.m. Saturday 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Reservations are still recommended, but not required, for 1891. Visit the Dining page at themac.com to make a reservation and for the most up-to-date hours.

Swordfish Recipe

Continued from page 30

Sweet Potato Purée

Ingredients

2 cups sweet potato, peeled, chopped whole milk, as needed

Sweet Potato Purée Directions

1. Submerge chopped sweet potato in cold water. Bring to a simmer and cook until tender.

2. With a small hand mixer, whip with a small amount of hot milk until very smooth. Reserve warm.

Roasted Winter Vegetables

Ingredients

1 medium heirloom carrot, peeled and cut into oblique

1 cup broccoli florets, size of a quarter

1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved

4 tablespoons olive oil

Kosher salt and black pepper

Directions

1. Preheat broiler, toss vegetables with olive oil, salt and pepper but keep them separated. Cook vegetables under the broiler on the second rack from the top. Watch carefully and stir as needed. Remove vegetables when they are caramelized and tender.

Parsley Relish

Ingredients

1 shallot, chopped

1 fresno chile or red jalapeño, chopped

4 garlic cloves, chopped

½ cup red wine vinegar

1 tsp. kosher salt, plus more

½ cup cilantro, chopped

¼ cup flat-leaf parsley, chopped

2 tbsp oregano, chopped

¾ cup extra-virgin olive oil

Directions

1. Combine shallot, chile, garlic, vinegar, and 1 teaspoon salt in a medium bowl. Let sit 10 minutes. Stir in cilantro, parsley, and oregano. Using a fork, whisk in oil.

Plating Technique

1. Lay out four entrée plates.

2. Spoon a large tablespoon of sweet potato puree at the lower 6 o’clock position on the plate. Rinse the spoon and using the back of the spoon make a “swoosh” by pulling the back of the spoon thru the purée towards the top of the plate.

3. Place about a ¼ cup of farro risotto in the center of the plate.

4. Place swordfish on top of risotto.

5. Spoon roasted vegetables over the swordfish, allowing them to fall to the side naturally.

6. Spoon a tablespoon of parsley relish over the swordfish and serve.

This dish pairs nicely with either an unoaked chardonnay or good sauvignon blanc.

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The Casey is Portland’s first LEED Platinum residential building. Luxury Design, materials and finishes define this elegant 2,652sf condominium home w/ 2 spacious bedrooms and 2 1/2 bathrooms.

Chef’s gourmet kitchen w/ Sub-Zero & Miele Appliances open to dining and one of two distinctive living rooms. 24/7 Concierge + Security, two parking spaces + oversized storage. Walk Score-100, Bike Score-96! TheCasey-903.com

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Fully Remodeled, Luxury Living in Atwater Place, South Waterfront’s Premier address. Spacious SE corner unit with spectacular expansive River and Mt. Hood views. Floor-to-ceiling windows, gorgeous gourmet kitchen with designer finishes, and custom island with bar seating. Both bedrooms include ensuite baths. Two secure parking spaces and storage unit included. Secure building, with concierge + security services. AtwaterPlace-1308.com

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$1,695,000 | 2 BED | 2 BATH | 2,460 SF

Custom designed Penthouse living @ The Encore. Overlooking Fields Park, this large and luxurious home offers high-end finishes, including a gourmet kitchen. The Penthouse is 2,460sf of one level living, plus 365sf of outdoor terraces, large office, and primary bedroom w/ spa-like bath & shower. 2 secure parking spaces + storage. The SW corner exposure with floor-to-ceiling windows brings in light year-round. Encore-ParkPenthouse.com

*All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed

Celebrate World Tai Chi Day at MAC

Saturday, April 29, is World Tai Chi Day. MAC members, led by instructor Papi Ferunaj, are set to participate in a special class and demonstration as tai chi enthusiasts worldwide celebrate this ancient practice.

A branch of Chinese medicine, tai chi has its roots in martial arts. Although it is a slow and graceful form of exercise, tai chi consists of movements that are actually variations of blocks, kicks, or strikes.

According to traditional Chinese medicine, qi is an energy force that flows through the body.  Tai chi is said to maximize the flow of qi. Another concept is that of yin and yang — opposing elements that make up the universe and need to be kept in balance (hot and cold, light and dark, weak and strong). Tai chi is said to promote this balance within the body.

Flexibility, balance, strength, coordination, and concentration are additional gains realized from the practice of tai chi. Ongoing research investigates other health benefits. It’s often called “meditation in

motion” because of mindful attention required during practice. Tai chi is a series of individual forms or motions, which are linked together into a flowing routine. Three important elements in the practice of tai chi are slow, purposeful movements; breath coordinated with movement; and mindful concentration.

MAC tai chi classes study the Yang style, which is the most widely practiced worldwide of the five main tai chi styles. Beginners learn the 8-Form, which has eight individual movements.  The 24-Form and 42-Form follow. MAC’s tai chi program continues to grow. Last fall, a beginner class was added. Class members have formed a book study to deepen their understanding of tai chi philosophy and practice.

MAC members are invited to attend MAC’s World Tai Chi Day class and demonstration with Papi at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, April 29, in Studio One.

— Ann Bakkensen, MAC tai chi participant

Members practice tai chi with instructor Papi Ferunaj

PHOTOS BY BRANDON DAVIS

April

Wednesday, April 5

Business Networking Mix & Mingle

5-8 p.m.

MAC Professional Business Networking Group invites you to mix and mingle with other MAC professionals. Stop by the Reading Lounge to enjoy happy hour pricing and expand your network.

Friday, April 7

MAC Golf Women’s Happy Hour

5-7 p.m.

The MAC Golf Committee invites women golfers to the Terrace Lounge Club in the Reading Lounge for a happy hour event. Mix and mingle with members and learn more about upcoming women’s golf opportunities. GOE0407

Family Fridays

6-8 p.m.

Bring the whole family for a night of free fun and games around the club. All events take place in the Main Gym, and concessions are available for purchase. Registration is required. SOY100

Saturday, April 8

MAC Volleyball 16U Spring Invitational Tournament

8 a.m.-5 p.m.

MAC Volleyball hosts its first tournament since 2019. Come support some of the best youth teams in the area, including three MAC teams: 15 Elite, 16 Elite, and 16 Premier.

Sunday, April 9

Easter Egg Hunt

3:30-4:30 p.m.

Join the Family Events Committee for the hunt beginning at 3:30 p.m. sharp. An adaptive egg hunt starts at 4 p.m. Commemorative bags are provided for the first 150 children. Participation is for MAC members only, but guests may come as spectators. SFE0409 – waitlist only

Wednesday, April 12

MAC Professional Business Networking Group

7:30-9 a.m.

Members meet monthly to discuss challenges, successes, and hurdles facing professionals and their enterprises. The group is moderated by Dave Hanna, an organizational development professional and MAC member. The cost to attend is $5. NET004

Friday, April 14

Untapped Trivia Night

7-8:30 p.m.

The Social Activities Committee welcomes members ages 21 and older to an evening of fresh factoids and friendly competition. Build your team of six or come as a single player to be paired with others. TRIV414

Junior Dance – Wild West

7-9:30 p.m.

Yeehaw! Junior members (grades 6-8) are invited to dress up in western, cowboy/cowgirl costumes and hoedown to tunes curated by a DJ. The cost is $20 for members and $30 for nonmember guests.

DANCE414 – waitlist only

Sunday, April 16

Spring Sprint Triathlon

9-11 a.m.

This event is a time trial measuring the total amount of time to swim 200 meters, bike 10K, and run two miles. Competition is open to all MAC members. Individual competitors and relay teams are encouraged. TRE0415

Monday, April 17, Wednesday, April 19 & Friday, April 21

Handball Club Doubles Championship

3:30-8:30 p.m.

A lauded tradition, this tournament is a gathering to celebrate, elevate competition, and promote “The Perfect Game.” It’s organized in a draw/round-robin format, and levels of play include Open, A, and B. The cost is $30 per member. HBCD417

Monday, April 17

History Book Club

6:30-8 p.m.

This month’s book is Russia: Revolution and Civil War, 1917-1921 by Antony Beevor. Geoff McCarthy is the questioner.

Discover New Hikes in Oregon

7-8:15 p.m.

Author and hiking guru William L. Sullivan takes MAC members on a slideshow tour of new and changed trails he discovered while updating his 100 Hikes guidebooks for Oregon. WHP419

Tuesday, April 18

Senior Member Happy Hour

4-6 p.m.

Senior members are invited to stop by MACtinis to mix and mingle. Seating is first come, first served. Registration is not required. SHH0418

Thursday, April 20

Thirsty Thursdays

Hosted by 20s/30s

6-8 p.m.

Stop by MACtinis to mix and mingle with friends new and old. Registration is not required.

Thursdays, April 20 & 27

Get Knotted: Fly Tying for Beginners

6-8 p.m.

The Outdoor Activities Committee invites members 16 and older to learn to tie classic trout flies. The Portland Fly Shop supplies materials, tools and vices, and you’ll learn to tie five trout patterns.

OAP420 – waitlist only

Friday, April 21

Family Fridays

6-8 p.m.

Bring the whole family for a night of free fun and games around the club. All events take place in the Main Gym and concessions are available for purchase. Registration is required. SOY101

Continued on page 38

Select April and May events and classes are presented here. Additional experiences are listed on the Events page at themac.com. Event registration is subject to availability.

Continued from page 37

Friday, April 21

20s/30s Casino Night

7-9:30 p.m.

The 20s/30s Committee invites you to spend an evening with friends learning casino games like blackjack, craps, roulette, poker, and more. Dress in your favorite Vegas-style, semiformal attire. Guests are welcome. STE0421

Friday, April 21-Sunday, April 23

Long Course Swimming Invitational

5:30-8 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday & Sunday

Cheer on the MAC Swim Team as they compete on the 2023 MAC Long Course Invitational in the 50-meter Pool.

Upcoming Thorns Games

Tickets for games go on sale one month prior to game day. Visit themac.com. All matches are subject to change by the NWSL.

vs. Houston Dash

7:30 p.m. Friday, April 14

PTFC139

vs. Racing Louisville FC

7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 22

PTFC140

vs. Angel City FC

7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 29

PTFC141

vs. Chicago Red Stars

2 p.m. Sunday, May 21

PTFC142

vs. Angel City FC*

7:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 31

PTFC143

Saturday, April 22

Earth Day Family Book Reading

10-11 a.m.

Join the Family Events Committee for a cozy and educational Earth Day-themed story time with stories and songs. This is a free event, but registration is required and there is a no-show fee of $5 due to the limited capacity. SFE0422

AdoptOneBlock

Neighborhood Cleanup

11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Join the Community Involvement Committee for an Earth Day neighborhood cleanup. After meeting in the Turnaround, members will pick up litter on MAC’s “adopted” block on the north side of Providence Park. All ages are welcome, and trash grabbers, gloves, buckets, and bags will be provided, but supplies are limited, so members are encouraged to bring their own cleanup items if possible. RSVP by emailing CommunityInvolvement. Chair@themac.com.

Karaoke Night with the MelloMacs

7-10 p.m.

Join fellow members for a fun night of karaoke hosted by the MelloMacs! Late night snacks are included, as well as a complimentary drink token, dancing, and, of course, karaoke. SOE0422

Tuesday, April 25

Evening Literary Group

7-8 p.m.

Join the Evening Literary Group for a lively discussion on The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles. Members and their guests are always welcome. Please email Martha Dixon at jollyology@aol.com with any questions.

Sunday, April 30

Balladeers Annual Concert

2-4 p.m.

Take in the sounds of the MAC Balladeers

Men’s Chorus as they take the stage for their annual concert. The chorus is singing five classic songs by The Beatles, plus a few other selections. This event is free of charge and open to all club members and guests. BAL430

May

Monday, May 1

Big Picture Book Group

7-8 p.m

The Big Picture Book Group reads nonfiction, covering a wide range of subjects. This month’s book is The Philosophical Baby: What Children’s Minds Tell Us About Truth, Love and the Meaning of Life by Alison Gopnik. Please email Virginia Terhaar at tvirginia@gmail.com with any questions.

Continued on page 40

* Match is part of 2023 Challenge Cup. Celebrate Earth Day with the next AdoptOneBlock Neighborhood Cleanup on Saturday, April 22.

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Continued from page 38

Wednesday, May 3

Business Networking

Mix & Mingle

5-8 p.m.

MAC Professional Business Networking Group invites you to mix and mingle with other MAC professionals. Stop by the Reading Lounge to enjoy happy hour pricing

Sunday, May 7

Dance Mini-Recital

10:30 a.m.-noon

MAC’s youngest dancers share their talents! This year’s show, themed “The Wheels on the Bus,” is truly entertaining for members and guests of all ages. DAE0507

Tuesday, May 9

Spring 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament

6-9 p.m.

This 3-on-3 competition consists of teams competing in round-robin play with singleelimination playoffs. Teams of three are picked by tournament organizers; team requests are accepted but not guaranteed. BBE0509

Tuesday, May 9-Wednesday, May 10

Bud Lewis Blood Drive

8 a.m.-7 p.m.

Saturday, May 13

MAC Mile 2023

9-11 a.m.

Participants put their speed to the test during a one-mile run, jog, or walk at Duniway Park. Compete for the fastest mile, or just enjoy time outside with family and friends. TRE0513

Monday, May 15

Listen & Learn – Recovery

6:30-8 p.m.

Engage with a panel of experts and athletes on insights, personal stories, and advice for ways to recover and be resilient in mind and body. Panelists include MAC’s naturopath, Lindsey Nelson, and Water Fitness Supervisor Lisa Best. Appetizers and soda water will be provided. CAE0515

Tuesday, May 16

MAC Senior Happy Hour

4-6 p.m.

Ladies Golf Night Hosted

by X-Golf Tualatin

5:30-7:30 p.m.

Spend an evening virtually teeing off at one of the country’s most coveted courses. The scramble format consists of three-person teams playing nine holes at Pebble Beach Golf Links. Arrive at 4:45 p.m. to mix and mingle and tee off at 5:30. Enjoy light appetizers and a no-host bar. GOE0503

Friday, May 5

Junior Game Night

6-8 p.m.

An evening curated just for members ages 8-12! Juniors can learn to play handball, racquetball, and Super Smash Brothers with friends. The cost is $30 and includes dinner. SJE505

Saturday, May 6

Kentucky Derby Casino Party

1:30-4:30 p.m.

Watch the race while enjoying light appetizers and playing blackjack, poker, roulette, and craps. Attendees are also encouraged to don their best derby attire and vie for the best hat award. SAE0506

MAC Wellness and the American Red Cross join forces once again to help save lives. Honor the late Bud Lewis by donating blood, volunteering at the drive, or helping to register fellow members. WEF151, WEF059, WEF510 – donate blood; WEF0501, BUD059, WEF0510 – volunteer

Wednesday, May 10

MAC Professional Business Networking Group

7:30-9 a.m.

Members meet monthly to discuss challenges, successes, and hurdles facing professionals and their enterprises. The group is moderated by Dave Hanna, an organizational development professional and MAC member. The cost to attend is $5. NET005

Friday, May 12

Family Fridays

6-8 p.m.

Bring the whole family for a night of free fun and games around the club. All events take place in the Main Gym and concessions are available for purchase. Registration is required. SOY102

Untapped Trivia Night

7-8:30 p.m.

The Social Activities Committee welcomes members ages 21 and older to an evening of fresh factoids and friendly competition. Build your team of six or come as a single player to be paired with others. TRIV512

Senior members are invited to stop by MACtinis to mix and mingle. Seating is first come, first served. Registration is not required. SHH0418

Upcoming Timbers Games

Tickets for games go on sale one month prior to game day. Visit themac.com. All matches are subject to change by MLS.

vs. Austin FC

7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 6

PTFC046

vs. Vancouver Whitecaps

7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 13

PTFC047

vs. Minnesota United FC 7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 20

PTFC048

Wednesday, May 17

Vintage Fashion Show

6-9 p.m.

Member models strut in vintage fashions from vendors Modig and Bliss House Museum. Hosted by the Culture & Style Committee, this evening features a cocktail hour, the main feature, and an after-show boutique for members to shop while the inspiration’s hot.

SCE0517

Thursday, May 18

20s/30s Thirsty Thursdays

6-8 p.m.

Stop by MACtinis to mix and mingle with friends new and old. Registration is not required.

Friday, May 19-Sunday, May 21

Father-Daughter Dance

5-8 p.m.

See page 19 for more information. SFE0519, SFE0520, SFE0521

Monday, May 22

History Book Club

6:30-8 p.m.

This month’s book is G-Man: J. Edgar Hoover and the Making of the American Century by Beverly Gage. Brooks Cofield is the questioner.

Tuesday, May 23

Evening Literary Group

7-8 p.m.

Join the Evening Literary Group for a lively discussion on A Bend in the River by V.S. Naipaul. Members and their guests are always welcome. Please email Martha Dixon at jollyology@aol.com with any questions.

Monday, May 29

MAC Murph Memorial Day Fitness Challenge

9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Honor fallen soldiers at this event for members ages 11 and older. Participants may complete the Murph Challenge individually or as part of a team. The challenge includes a 1-mile run, 100 pull-ups, 200 push-ups, 300 squats, and another 1-mile run. Categories are based on age, team vs. individual, and weighted vest or no vest. CAE0529

TAX-FREE BONDS

CLUB SCRAPBOOK

MAF Week

The Multnomah Athletic Foundation hosted the 10th-annual Spin-A-Thon, the kickoff event to MAF Week, on March 12.

PHOTOS BY BRANDON DAVIS

1. Sarah Burczak, Maggie Nice, and Dave Conant-Norville

2. MAF Executive Director Lisa Bendt led the second of three spin classes 3. Zack Mullnix and Julia Nachman

Black History Month

The DEI Committee celebrated Black stories, voices, and contributions at an event on March 10.

PHOTOS BY BRANDON DAVIS

4. Willa Proby 5. Sibyl Jarrett and Robin Kaukonen

6. Teddy Martin of the Bridgetown Get Down

7 The event highlighted local vendors, including Deadstock Coffee 8. Debbie Bensching, Jenny Kim, TanyaMcGee, Vishnu Jetmalani, and Susan Bladholm

Snow Day

MAC’s Maintenance team worked hard to clear snow and make it safe for members and staff to return to the club after the historic snow storm on Feb. 22-23.

9. Jordan Sisler, Chris Bradley, Felix Sanchez, Steve Coppin, Alan Bennett, Nicholas Fonseca, and Jacob Long

10. Felix Sanchez plows the member garage

Celebration of Champions

Outstanding club athletes were recognized at this annual ceremony on Tuesday, Feb. 28.

PHOTOS BY BRANDON DAVIS

11. The Mel Fox Amateur Athlete of the Year Award is given to the individual or team who has demonstrated athletic excellence, sportsmanship, and leadership during the course of an athletic year. The MAC Climbing Team took home the honors this year.

12 The Joe Loprinzi Inspirational Award is presented annually to an individual who inspires others to achieve their goals. Artistic swimmer Michele Bennett was this year’s winner.

13. The Golden Masters and Platinum Basketball Teams were recognized at the ceremony for winning competitions on a national stage. Pictured are Peter Coffey, Rodd Miller, Robert “Doc” Phillips, Bill Patton, Al Jochim, Mike Brohoski, and Wes Okamoto.

Learn more about the nominees and winners, and read their inspirational stories, at themac.com or by scanning the code below.

Strike the Right Balance for a Better Mood

One common issue that emerges during this time of cold, wet winter weather is low mood. There is a huge misconception that one needs to be given an official mental health diagnosis to get help with mood. Functional medicine can help anyone struggling with their mood, whether that’s feelings of sadness, hopelessness, negative thought patterns, low motivations, irritability, or anger.

The natural approach I take in my practice to support a healthy mood is to investigate common root causes of mood disturbances.

Lots of people think mood only relates to serotonin levels in the brain, but really, that’s only part of the story. Think of it this way — the brain is connected to the rest of the body. So, a person’s mood depends on the right balance of nutrients, hormones, and other chemical messengers throughout the entire body, including the gut, thyroid, and immune system.

This is not an exhaustive list, but to give some examples, here are five root causes of mood issues that I investigate when taking a functional medicine approach.

1. Hormonal changes: Low thyroid hormone is a well-established cause of mood problems. Estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone also influence mood. The only way to know for sure is to test.

2. Chronic inflammation: Many studies have linked inflammatory cytokines with mood problems — even when the source of inflammation is outside the brain. It’s thought these cytokines pass through the blood-brain barrier.

3. Poor gut health: Did you know that the microbes inhabiting the gut produce hundreds of neurochemicals, including 95% of the body’s serotonin? These chemicals influence both digestion and mood through what’s called the gut-brain axis.

4. Disrupted stress response: Cortisol is the hormone the body makes in response to chronic stress, and studies link disrupted cortisol levels with mood. We can test cortisol levels in the saliva to observe its cyclical pattern over the course of a day.

5. Suboptimal nutrition: Serotonin, dopamine, and other neurotransmitters are made from amino acids, which come from protein consumption. The enzymes used to produce these neurotransmitters depend on vitamins and minerals like magnesium and vitamin B6.

I know to some people, it may sound odd to consider these seemingly unrelated issues when somebody struggles with mood, but I’ve seen it time and time again.

A whole-person approach is the most effective way to get results that last. If you or somebody you know is struggling with mood, and have tried other treatments and therapies, consider functional medicine as an avenue to relief. If you have any questions or would like to discuss more, please email me at drlindseysnelson@gmail.com.

— Lindsey Nelson, ND

Teams to Represent MAC at This Year’s Hood to Coast Relays

Looking for a fun challenge to build fitness and get to know fellow MAC members? The club is providing opportunities for runners, walkers, and volunteers to participate in the popular Hood to Coast and Portland to Coast relays this year.

Last year, the club sponsored a team for the Hood to Coast Relay, which sends teams of runners on a 196-mile journey from the top of Mount Hood to the Oregon Coast. This event has sold out for 30 straight years. After hearing feedback from members who were interested in the event but aren’t runners, the club has added a team for the 128-mile Portland to Coast Walk Relay this year.

Both teams are made up of 12 walkers or runners who split up into two vans. Because the relays take place over 24-36 hours, most participants complete at least one leg during the night — with appropriate reflective gear and headlamps, of course. MAC recommends joining a team with a good friend or partner for support.

Learn more about these relays by heading to hoodtocoast.com, then register at themac.com. Space is limited, and registration is first come, first served. There will be a cost associated with van rentals — likely $75 to $100 per participant.

Want to be part of the excitement but aren’t up for running or walking? Both teams are also looking for three volunteers to help run exchange points, watch over important race equipment, and direct runners and walkers along the course.

Hood to Coast Relay

Friday, Aug. 25-Saturday, Aug. 26

Each leg of the 196-mile running relay is between 4 and 8 miles long, and each member of the 12-person team completes two legs. Team members can enjoy several team bonding events as well as a series of training runs throughout the summer, plus an additional option to join in a special fitness class to get ready for the race.

Join the waitlist or learn how to volunteer at themac.com. HTC825

Portland to Coast Walk Relay

Friday, Aug. 25-Saturday, Aug. 26

Each leg of the 128-mile walking relay is between 4 and 7 miles long, and each member of the 12-person team completes two legs. Once the team is established, participants are invited to join several team bonding events as well as a series of walks and hikes throughout the summers.

Join the waitlist or learn how to volunteer at themac.com. PTC825

MAC personal trainer Aria Jeremiah

Meet the Trainer

MAC’s personal trainers help members reach their fitness and athletic goals with individually tailored programs. From sports-specific training to weight loss to injury prevention and rehabilitation, the staff has a diverse range of specializations and interests.

This month, get to know Aria Jeremiah, who has been a personal trainer since early 2022. She started at MAC as a line cook in 1891 and the Sports Pub before transferring to the Fitness department and becoming a personal trainer.

Winged M: What got you interested in fitness and working in the fitness industry?

Aria Jeremiah: I made a major career change in early 2022; I was in the culinary industry and just switched to fitness a year ago this month. During the pandemic, I made a list of what I wanted my future to look like, and I wrote down people, music, and movement. Fitness really helped my mental health during the COVID era and inspired me to learn more exercise science and anatomy. I’ve always been pretty athletic, growing up playing rugby and basketball, dancing, and running a lot. Once I started learning, I was hooked and knew I wanted to become a part of the fitness industry.

WM: What is your training philosophy or style?

AJ: Really bringing confidence and joy early on in fitness experiences and helping bring successful moments in the gym to clients. Fitness journeys are not a sprint; they are a marathon. Always be kind with yourself, and, as NIKE says, “There is no finish line.”

WM: What are you most proud of yourself for accomplishing in your career so far?

AJ: The career change in itself and being a personal trainer here at MAC. I truly feel that the sky is the limit here, and I am very proud of the foundation I have built and the opportunities I have opened up for myself.

WM: What does a typical non-workday look like for you?

AJ: Lots of recovery, cooking, photography, my cat Pricilla, and calling my mom.

Instructor Spotlight

Meet Shannon Tauscher, a MAC Group Fitness instructor since 2022 who takes to the mat several times each week to lead members through Pilates and yoga workouts. She also teaches barre, bootcamp, spin, and MAC Fit classes.

Winged M: What’s your background/training?

Shannon Tauscher: I have a B.S. in biomedicine from Central Washington University, which is basically a degree to take the MCAT and go to medical school. I realized after I graduated that I didn’t want to attend any more school. I had taught group fit as a hobby all through college and was able to turn it into a career, along with personal training. I’ve also worked in an orthopedic physical therapy clinic for the past five years, which is where the majority of my exercise knowledge comes from.

WM: Can you describe your teaching approach/philosophy?

ST: My number one goal for my classes is to make them fun and informative. I believe exercise should be the best part of your day! I love seeing my participants grow, learn, refine, and modify the exercises to suit their body and needs.

WM: What are some things you like to do outside of work?

ST: Outside of work I am an avid mountain biker, skier, and equestrian. I enjoy camping, eating, and reading during my downtime.

FITNESS & WELLNESS CORNER

Recover Daily: Tips for Sleep Hygiene

What is sleep hygiene? Sleep hygiene refers to habits and environment surrounding an important tool for recovery — sleep. Sleep allows the body to rest and rebuild after physical activity and affects cognitive, motor, and psychological function. Simple habits to improve sleep include: Keep a regular sleep cycle. Make a habit of going to bed at the same time every night (within 15 minutes).

Institute a digital curfew. Cell phones can block the body’ s production of melatonin, making it more difficult to fall asleep. Ideally, a digital curfew is at least 30 minutes before bed. Other activities to replace screen time include reading, meditation, or listening to calming music or podcasts.

Create an ideal sleep ambiance. It is essential to create a sleep-friendly environment in the bedroom. When looking for ways to improve sleep ambiance, consider lighting, room temperature, sleep comfort, noise, and distractions that may be influencing sleep quality.

Learn more about how to incorporate recovery techniques into your daily routine by signing up for the Build Program in May. Find details at themac.com.

Members Are Loving Massage

Had a great massage and want to share? Members receive an email with a link to share feedback after their appointment. Here’s what some members who have recently visited the MAC Massage suite have to say:

“I felt more relaxed and less sore afterward. I loved how Mariya used deep tissue to work on tight areas and introduced me to a new treatment with cupping to help an injury recover. I plan to come back and highly recommend her!”

“AMAZING. Don was the most caring, thorough, and effective therapist I have had in years. I have very specific hip pain, and he addresses it perfectly. I am walking much better today thanks to his thoughtful care. A++”

Ask Coach MAC

MAC’s team of trainers, health and sports coaches, and massage therapists are here to answer member questions! Need fitness or wellness advice? Have a burning question? Ask Coach MAC! Members can use the QR code to submit their questions about training, nutrition, recovery, and more. Answers to submitted questions will be published online, in The Winged M, or in a club newsletter. Please note that not all questions will be answered.

MAC Instructor Shannon Tauscher

Oregonians are generators of abundance. For 50 years, we’ve helped each other thrive. From safe shelter to art supplies, we’ve stepped up when someone needed support. Leaned in when they needed help. Dug deep when they needed food. Gave back, when given the chance. And we’re getting better at doing it all more equitably. The past few years have been some of our most challenging. And what did we do? We helped each other. We marched, fought fires, dropped off groceries — and gave. We gave more than ever before. Which tells us that in our next 50 years, Oregonians helping Oregonians, through thick and thin, will continue to lift us all. Cheers to you, Oregon. As your statewide community foundation, we celebrate our 50th anniversary in honor of you.

Fuel to Rule the Jungle: A New Way to Give Back at MAC

Personal trainer Jake Hickok has been a MAC employee — in one capacity or another — for eight years. “I’ve been a trainer for six of those, but I’ve worn many hats at the MAC. I’m a dodgeball legend from my Court Sports attendant days, a Family Friday bounce house champion, a tiny tots tennis instructor, and a men’s league Thursday night statistician,” he says.

His first introduction to fitness was through his own journey working with a personal trainer. Jake says it was the feeling of joy and pride in himself that led him to personal training. “I felt like I wanted to help as many people reach that feeling as possible — literally that feeling that you can run through a brick wall. Just that belief in yourself,” he says. “That’s what got me into the fitness industry, and that’s why I love what I do.”

His newest adventure led him through culinary school to combine his love of food, fitness, and connection to create Escobarz, a line of nutrition bars that launched at Joe’s in March. This project started during the pandemic and stemmed from his involvement with multiple different charities that opened his eyes to the issues the Portland community faces and what he could do to help.

Each bar, associated with a different animal, is connected to a cause. Hickok gives back 5% of the profit from each flavor to a

charity supporting a cause that is personal and connected to his life experience. By doing this, he hopes to promote vulnerability and visibility, encouraging people to connect with the causes behind the bars and with each other.

For Hickok, Escobarz isn’t just a name, it’s a motto. “Esco” stands for every day someone is creating and celebrating opportunities. The donated 5% goes to giving the people who benefit from these charities opportunities to be and become whatever they want.

Strawberry Sensation (cancer research): The bar that got everything started is an ode to Hickok’s mom, who lost the fight to cancer after 10 years. He shares this because losing a loved one to cancer, or other illness, is a shared experience that so many have gone through.

Chocolate Drip (kids hunger): Connecting with children in underfunded communities while handing out food boxes as a volunteer with Jumpstart made Hickok realize that food equals opportunities for success.

Vanilla Skye (mental health): After facing his own struggles with mental health and knowing everyone has times when things feel dark, Hickok wanted his company to say that someone has their back.

Peanut Butter Bliss (kids’ education): Not every child learns the same. When talking about his own educational journey, Hickok

says that if someone had told his younger self that he would be a personal trainer or chef, he wouldn’t have believed it. This cause supports learning opportunities for all.

“Food is not a luxury. It’s a necessity, and these bars are for everyone,” Hickok says. “The macros are lined up for everyone’s daily needs, and they help encourage a healthy relationship with food.” They are made with love and care for those who eat them and for those that they support. Just like his motivation to help others through personal training, he sees these bars as a way to connect with others and accomplish something great together.

Celebrating Group Exercise

The Group Exercise Committee hosted a successful Cardio Kickback event in February where 50 members came to celebrate MAC’s commitment to heart fitness with complimentary coffee and nibbles.

Group Exercise Committee members Mona Garg and Elena Buller

The Changing Shape of Water

MAC Artistic Swimmers Make Room for a Trio of Men, Reflecting Global Trend

By Jake Ten Pas

Photos by Brandon Davis

Three of us being in one spot? That’s kind of a unicorn event!” So says Kenyon Smith, Artistic Swimming Assistant Coach, of the potentially unique phenomenon currently taking MAC by the horn. Three men in the same sport wouldn’t normally raise eyebrows, but the athletic pursuit sometimes called synchronized swimming tends to turn stereotypes, as well as participants, upside-down.

Smith started working at MAC just around two months ago, and when he moved to Portland from Boulder, Colorado, getting back into artistic swimming wasn’t even on his radar — despite men being allowed to compete in the sport for the first time at the 2024 Summer Olympics. He simply wanted to be closer to his partner, Artistic Swimming Pre-Competitive Coach Andrea Valoppi, while working on his general transfer degree at Portland Community College. When the opportunity to join MAC’s team presented itself, it was an extremely pleasant surprise rather than the result of careful planning.

Artistic swimming first beckoned to Smith when he was only 8 years old. His older sister, Layla, who was 11 at the time, had taken to

it, and their mom suggested he give it a spin one summer. “She’s my best friend, so I just wanted to do stuff with her,” he adds. By the time Smith turned 13, both siblings were invited to Santa Clara, California, to check out a huge theatrical water production being staged by the city’s famed Aquamaids. “We fell in love with the whole scene and both decided to move out to California to pursue a more serious synchro career,” Smith says. It was the beginning of something beautiful.

A Brief History

Synchronized swimming didn’t first become an Olympic sport until 1984, and it’s sometimes viewed as a relatively recent phenomenon compared to others featured in the global games. Baby Boomers and Generation X likely became aware of it via the movies — whether those of Esther Williams or The Great Muppet Caper — or possibly even the famous Saturday Night Live short film starring Martin Short and Harry Shearer. But artistic swimming, as it’s now officially called, can trace its history back to the Roman Empire.

Julius Caesar commandeered amphitheaters, filled them with water, and staged elaborate reenactments of large naval battles, where gladiators fought to the death. Fortunately, there were less-savage displays, where women swimmers portrayed water nymphs, executing choreographed routines that included forming shapes such as tridents, anchors, and more, all while diving and swimming in unison.

By the Victorian era, such performances had evolved into “aqua dramas,” with sunken stages submerged under water so that crowds could enjoy “ornamental swimming.” It’s believed that the first official competition of this still-forming sport took place in Germany in the 1890s. Around the turn of the 20th century, such terms gave way to “water ballet,” and Australian champion swimmer Annette Kellerman — sometimes called the mother of synchronized swimming — began her American vaudeville career in 1908. According to the Smithsonian Magazine, the American Red Cross saw the ensuing wave of water pageants as “an innovative way to increase public interest in swimming and water safety.”

Synchronized swimming continued to increase in popularity through the 1930s and ‘40s, eventually resulting in Busby Berkeley’s famous film productions, paid homage by the Cohen Brothers in the 2016 film Hail, Caesar!, in which Scarlett Johansson plays a character inspired by Esther Williams. Artistic swimming has come a long way since its Roman roots, and as is evidenced by the Olympics’ recent decision to include men in its competitions, it continues to evolve today.

“Personally, I love the idea that the sport is becoming more co-ed,” adds Artistic Swimming Assistant Coach Bethany Baber. “I think the name change from synchronized swimming to artistic swimming a few years ago was a way for our sport to pull away from the stereotype of girls swimming around in a circle with flower caps. It seems the goal was to show that artistic swimming is for anyone, and it requires not only grace but also grit. Swimmers need it all: strength, endurance, flexibility, musicality, fluidity, sharpness, showmanship, etc.

Dipping His Toes Into the Water

Campbell Howsley likely doesn’t have any of the previous context, and he doesn’t need it to know what he likes. He likes the theater, and particularly Hamilton. He likes math, science, and art. He’s happy to go horseback riding, cuckoo for Karate, and absolutely smitten with synchronized swimming.

“It’s a little like science because it can be hard, and it’s kind of like math because sometimes it’s fast and easy,” Howsley says. “In the water, when we have to do all the tricks and stuff, it’s hard, but land drill is really easy. Right now, I want to improve my barracuda,” he adds, referencing a particular move he’s been working on, “It’s challenging pulling yourself up out of the water without walls or anybody to pull us up.”

When pressed for other moves he enjoys practicing, he quickly throws out the kip. “It’s very amazing,” he opines. Clearly, Howsley continues to work through the terminology, but that’s to be expected for a 7-year-old taking to a sport with such a rich history and repertoire of maneuvers. Talking to him, it’s easy to wonder if a young Kenyon Smith sounded similar when he first tried to barracuda as an 8-year-old.

His mom, Emily Howsley, is just pleased that Campbell has found another sport that he enjoys after casting about in search of the right athletic — and artistic — fit. The family joined MAC about a year and a half ago, and Emily says they’ve been enjoying all that MAC has to offer.

“We’re at a neighborhood school, and all of his friends are here, so the community and the family activities are really the big draws for us. We’re at the Timbers games, and all the kid activities, and I’m on the Family Events committee.

“Campbell is our kid who hasn’t obviously been plugged into one sport. I’m still trying to feel him out. Synchro has been a nice surprise in the sense that he really took to it!”

It all started with swim lessons, and one auspicious day, a letter arrived at the Howsley house addressed to Campbell. “I opened it and was so surprised that they were inviting him to come try out for synchronized swimming,” Emily recalls.

“We went to tryouts, and he did things I didn’t know he could do. Bethany was like, ‘OK, swim down, cross stroke, and come back.’ He wasn’t even doing that in swimming lessons. He would just sink below the water, watch the older girls do the move, and then he would do it.”

Now, Howsley is the only boy in MAC’s Junior Artistic Swimming program. “It’s a big commitment – three hours a week - which for any sport is a lot, especially for a kid this age,” Emily says. “He’s always eager to go. It’s just been nice to see him finally take to something.”

Given how young Howsley is, only time can tell if he’ll stick with the sport in the way Smith has, but for now all that matters is that he’s having fun, fitting in, and getting a great workout. “After synchro, I’m like passed out,” he says.

He adds that all the girls are really nice to him, and he’s basically friends with all of his teammates. “Any sport can be for anybody. That’s what I would say.”

Take It to the Limit

Passing out after practice definitely is preferable to during, as Smith can attest. He doesn’t get in the water anymore, even on vacation, thanks to major reconstructive surgery he had to have on his ear canal and drum following years spent chasing his passion perhaps a bit too hard, sometimes for eight to 10 hours a day, six days a week. “I’m careful in the shower even,” he adds.

Director Darren Aronofsky (The Wrestler, Black Swan) hasn’t made a movie about artistic swimming – yet – but if he were to, it might look a little something like Smith’s life. “I have a real fear of drowning, for sure, because I know what it’s like losing your breath in the water. I blacked out a few times in California doing a figure for too long.”

Smith says he’s careful to balance the commitment to perfection that he witnessed in some of his own coaches with MAC’s emphasis on safety and his own desire to adapt his level of encouragement to the individual needs of an athlete. “It’s complicated in synchro because it’s a team sport. Not only are you thinking of each of the eight athletes all doing a routine together, but you’re also looking at the unit as a whole, and how they’re interacting with each other. What motivates them? What shuts them down? What inspires them? What’s cool about athletics is that you can learn how to be a good, well-rounded person, and how to push yourself outside your comfort zone and then be proud of what you accomplished.”

In 2008, Smith came in first at the Olympic trials, and “I made it onto multiple of the Senior National Teams in the years leading up to that year,” he explains. Sadly, at the time, FINA, the global organization that governs synchro — and recently rolled out the name change to artistic swimming under its own new name, World Aquatics — had rules in place that men weren’t allowed to compete at the Olympics. “That was it for me. I made it. I got first. What else was I going to do?”

The Changing Shape of Water

Continued from page 51

He also looks back fondly on a world tour with the Aquamaids, where he and his sister performed a duet together in Rome, Zurich, Barcelona, and beyond. “It was a glorious ending of that whole journey,” he says.

The Olympics might not be in Smith’s future, but that doesn’t diminish his excitement that other elite athletes now have the opportunity to take their passions to levels not available to him during his synchro career.

“Maybe change is happening. I really didn’t believe it was ever going to change at the end of my career,” Smith says. “It feels like we’re at the beginning of something. It still feels very young, having males in this sport. But I think it could really change the sport if we keep getting more men involved. I’m envisioning teams where it’s half males, half females, and getting some really big strong guys in there doing amazing acrobatic lifts in our competitions. Like with mixed figure skating, there is something about having the male and female aspect combined that just makes it more interesting to me personally.”

“I hope having a male coach, Kenyon, also attracts more boys to try out for artistic swimming,” notes Head Coach Lucie Svrcinova. “We hold fall tryouts typically at the end of August/beginning of September, and it would be great to see some turn out.”

Never Too Late

Only five years younger than Smith’s 33 years, MAC Masters Synchro Team member and Swim School Coordinator Andrew Reynolds seems to be at the start of his own journey, even though it once appeared his time as a swimmer was over.

“I never thought I’d be involved in aquatics again, or swimming or playing water polo. I took a break after going through City College [in Orange County] and competing in water polo at state, and I was traveling around with a music festival company, Do LaB, which has a stage at Coachella,” among other activations. Turns out, the water had sunk its hooks deeper into Reynolds than he knew at the time. After winning one state championship and then failing in a second bid, “It just kind of bummed me out a little bit, and I started going off and working the festival circuit. The next thing I know, I was here for the Oregon Eclipse Festival, and I was like, ‘Wow, this place is lovely. I really want to stay here.” So, he decided to return to “Cascadia.”

After moving to Portland and taking a job with MAC, Reynolds tried out a number of different artistic pursuits in the local community, including aerial performance and varying types of dance. As a kid, his parents had encouraged him to explore ballet, hip hop, and other expressive forms of movement, so it was natural to get back into it.

“Then I became aware of synchronized swimming here, and thought, “That’s something I’ve never really tried in the water.’ I’m a total aquaphile, so even just water skiing and surfing, I’m all about it. Synchro was so alluring, and eventually I got in and tried it, and now I’m kind of stuck with it,” he concludes, laughing.

Despite being 28, Reynolds has been swimming with the 50 and older Masters team, which he says is a great fit for where he’s at in his progression as an artistic swimmer. “I know myself, and I need at least one more year on the 50s squad before I’d be ready for the 30s. The 50s routines are legit and pretty fast!” Reynolds also says that his teammates made him feel right at home straight out of the gate.

“They were very welcoming with open arms, just wonderful ladies. They have included me in everything, and I am so grateful to be their teammate and be included in all this. Playing with the water polo guys, there’s a different type of camaraderie and competition, you’re with the boys. But then when you’re hanging with the women, it’s a different level of seriousness. I need to now uphold myself so that I don’t make the rest of my team look bad.”

Reynolds took part in his first artistic swimming competition in late 2022, and despite being “absolutely nervous that I was going to let them down,” he says he can’t wait until this year’s nationals. He’s so enamored of the sport, in fact, that he’s been lobbying several friends to join him on the team once they finish their college master’s programs. “I kind of made a deal with them that they could come and live with me, and we’re going to have our own little male synchro squad,” he says. “This is something I’m going to do until I lay down in my grave.”

Coach Kenyon Smith is flanked by Andrew Reynolds and Campbell Howsley.

50th Pacific Coast Doubles Squash Championships

Will Gruner nearly had it. For the first three rounds of the Pacific Coast Doubles Open draw, he and partner Julian Illingworth had battled magnificently, especially in the semifinal round, where the two took down the Canadian pairing of Joey Evans and Luke Vaggers in four sets.

Before the 50th installment of this tournament began, Gruner looked up and down the list of past winners and noted it had been a long time since a pairing of MAC members had claimed the Open title. But coming into the Sunday final late in January, Gruner found himself facing the No. 1-seeded team and down a partner thanks to a hamstring injury Illingworth suffered the match before.

Paired instead with Portlander Adam Perkiomaki, the Portland pairing managed to take a game off of Vancouver’s Justin Todd and Jason Del Vecario before ultimately falling in four sets.

The packed gallery, which hung on every point, left entertained nonetheless.

“It was just so fun,” said Gruner, 34, who played singles squash at Williams College.

“For us, it was, ‘Let’s just go out and have fun and let it rip.’”

It was a philosophy matched by all throughout the Pacific Coast Doubles, held for the first time since the pandemic. In total, the MAC hosted 148 teams and 102 total matches over the three-plus-day tournament, with players joining from California, New Mexico, Pennsylvania, Washington, Colorado, Michigan, Missouri, and New York, with 30% of the teams traveling from Canada.

Planning for the tournament began back in October, and registration had to be cut off a month early due to overwhelming interest.

“We were worried that we might have to hustle people to sign up,” said Werner

Hergeth, who’s been the MAC’s squash pro since 2019. “It was really important to us to have a strong ‘Welcome Back’ since it’s the 50th, but to also encourage us to keep that momentum that we lost the last three pandemic years.”

MAC set a high bar for the future of the tournament, which will be held in San Francisco for 2024. Matches began Thursday evening and filled the club’s two doubles courts with matches beginning as early as 7 a.m. the next three days.

Gruner plans on being there next year and wants to win a title. Still, he couldn’t help but reflect fondly on a rousing second-place finish.

“I just like all the camaraderie,” he said. “It’s just a treat — all these guys kinda retire from playing singles and they’re just so fired up about doubles. And the crowd is just so jazzed up to watch young guys play doubles at a really high level and you just feed off that energy.”

— Tyson Alger

Tyson Alger is the founder and editor of i-5Corridor.com. This article was excerpted from Pacific Coast Doubles Championships - A story about a writer, his dad and a bottle of Ibuprofen.

PHOTOS BY BRANDON DAVIS

MAC member Phoebe Trubowitz (middle left) in the Women’s Open Final

Luis Molinari and Sean Ryan

1. Adam Perkiomak (middle right) and Will Gruner (far right) at the Men’s Open Final

2. MAC Pro Julian Illingworth

3. Don Livingstone (middle left) and Gary Johnson (middle right)

4. Peter Pantages, Faydella Pantages, Rachel Pantages Wagner, and Geoff Wagner

5. Samuel Gruner warming up with dad, Will

MAC Handball Updates

Handball player Mike Steele was among the finalists for the Joe Loprinzi Inspirational Award. The awards banquet was held Feb. 23.

Intramurals

The courts were full every Wednesday for Handball’s six-week fall intramural league. The MAC Handball Committee introduced a different format that resulted in some great competition. Thank you to J.D. McLandrich for organizing and making this happen.

The committee is in the process of setting up a program for youth and new handball players. Austin Biddle will organize and run the program. MAC handball players are encouraged to help Austin out in the recruitment and implementation of this program.

Super Bowl Tournament

The annual invitational Super Bowl tournament was held on Super Bowl day, Feb. 12, at MAC. Participants played seven matches to 11, followed by food and drinks. Awards donated by Dr. Ed Grossenbacher were given for first, third, fifth, and seventh places. The doubles team winners were:

• First Place – Graig Trull, Mike Steele

• Third Place (a tie) – Jean Kastner, Tony Heiting, and Jon Polonsky, Bob Evenson

• Fifth Place – Tom Hussey, Ron Shoquist

• Seventh Place – Dean Duncan, Pete Greer

Thank you to perennial organizer Bob Evenson for another successful tournament.

Spring and Summer Tennis

Many MAC handball players, showing their versatility, play tennis in the spring and summer. The matches are followed by banter and libations. Tom Wenrich and Allen Culver organized and started this event years ago. The past couple years, Sean Carney has done an excellent job chairing this activity. Anyone who is interested in playing some tennis should contact Sean.

Handball Committee

The MAC Handball Committee, chaired by Conor Casey, generally meets every month. The committee addresses and plans a wide range of topics with input from the MAC athletic liaison, USHA, and members of the committee. These include intramurals, in-house-events, the handball calendar, court issues, treasurer’s report, handball articles, and upcoming tournaments. The members of this year’s committee are Conor Casey, Jeff Jasperson, Mike Casey, Tony Heiting, Dave Delaney, Kathy Adelman, Brian Lee,

Hank Marcus, John Van Gorder, and new (and younger!) members Jean Kastner, Bryan Duncan, and Jon Polansky. Thank you to these committee members for all the behind-thescenes work they do for handball at MAC.

Upcoming and Ongoing Handball Events

• MAC Club Doubles – April 17, 19, 21

• Pacific Northwest Handball Tournament –May 19-21

• Portland Classic – October (date TBD)

— W. Tony Heiting

(front row) Jon Polonsky, Bill Flowers, Ron Shoquist, Jean Kastner (middle row) Pete Greer, Mike Casey,  Bob Evenson, Tony Heiting, Graig Trull, Jeff Jasperson, Mike Steele (back row) Todd Zilbert, Byran Duncan, Dean Duncan, Tom Hussey, Frank Romanaggi

© Greg Kozawa

Volleyball Coach Brings Versatility and Experience to MAC

When Dani Kellis was hired in August of 2022 as a team coach for the upcoming club season, MAC wasn’t prepared for all the ways that she would soon start benefiting the club’s recreational and competitive programs. Before the competitive team season began, Kellis started off by teaching the Beginners Youth Volleyball class. Though she has more than four years of coaching experience and a 7-year-old son of her own, coaching 8- to 12-year-old volleyball athletes was a new adventure for her.

“When I first got hired, I was so nervous to coach the beginners’ class because the age was a little intimidating. But ultimately, that class ended up being the thing that reminds me of why I do what I do and where my original love of volleyball comes from,” says Kellis. “It is such a joy to be with those kids and get to be a little silly with games and drills, but I also get to instill the fundamentals of the game into them — and hopefully the love of the game too.”

Not long after that, Kellis began taking on private volleyball lessons with junior athletes. Her one-on-one work with athletes via private lessons is a huge reason why the program experienced so much growth and an unprecedented number of athletes at tryouts for the current season. Head Volleyball Coach Taylor Canoso constantly had an inbox flooded with requests from parents asking for their kids to work with Kellis — and she has been in high demand ever since. Kellis has

also been a personal fitness trainer for the last 11 years. Her attention to injury prevention, physical developmental, and implementation of mental training and toughness are all the reasons why Kellis is an extraordinary coach. She is technical, knowledgeable, and extremely creative with her team’s training. “The crossover between being a personal trainer and a volleyball coach is very rewarding. I’m learning a lot about communication with others and also the importance of teaching young athletes how their bodies are supposed to move. I also feel like I can bring a lot of motivation to my team training, while also teaching the act of working through adversity and being challenged,” says Kellis. For the club season, Kellis was assigned a lead coaching role for the 15 Elite Team – no small feat by any means. The team is a traveling team that practices three times per week, which means that between practices, classes, private lessons, and tournaments, Kellis is currently living and breathing MAC volleyball. So how does one transition from teaching beginner 8- to 12-year-old athletes, to competitive 14-year-old and over team athletes, to one-on-one private volleyball and fitness trainings, to adult volleyball athletes? (Yes, she runs Adult Open Play Volleyball on the weekends too!) “Honestly, there isn’t too much of a mental switch for me — I try to stay even throughout the day and remember what each group is wanting out of their time on the court.

I love the progression throughout my day of getting to work with so many different athletes of different ages and ability — it has made me a better coach overall and reminds me of why I love this sport so much,” Kellis explained.

The MAC Volleyball program is lucky to have such an experienced and passionate coach, and Kellis is a wonderful representation of the program’s coaching staff and the program as a whole. She stands for the whole athlete model of developing young athletes on multiple levels aside from just the sport of their choosing. The coaches would agree that Kellis is an example of why MAC Volleyball continues to see sustainable and effective growth for juniors 8 to 18 and how the community continues to expand beyond that.

Kellis also says that being part of MAC has been a game-changer for her coaching career. “The volleyball program at MAC feels much more tight-knit than any other program I have ever been part of. Other places feel like you’re kind of on your own as a coach. I love how all of us coaches support one another — whether that’s at practice, tournaments, or even encouragement from afar.”

When she isn’t coaching volleyball, Kellis enjoys spending her free time snowboarding, baking or cooking, and playing competitive sports. And if you’re ever around on Saturdays between noon and 2 p.m., stop by the West Gym and say hi to Coach Dani during Adult Open Play Volleyball.

Dani Kellis

BRANDON DAVIS

BRANDON DAVIS

RACQUETBALL

MAC Juniors Help

Lead Lincoln to Third-Place Finish at High

School Championship

The Lincoln High School Racquetball team has always been closely partnered with MAC, and this year is no different. The team had 30 student-athletes, including 17 MAC members, compete at the state championship tournament Jan. 26-29. A total of 13 schools competed at the championship for the crown of top racquetball program, with the Lincoln boys finishing second, and the overall Lincoln team getting a hard-fought third-place finish, improving on last year’s performance despite having a significant number of players that were brand new to racquetball three months ago!

There were some incredible individual performances that led to the overall team

success, headlined by MAC member Camden Schnebly, who won an astonishing three gold medals. Cam ended the season as the overall top-rated boy in the state, winning Boys #1 Singles, Boys #1 Doubles with Julian Krozel, and Mixed Doubles with Elle Newton. In total, there were eight MAC members on the team that finished in the top four in their

respective divisions, taking home one of those coveted medals. Huge congratulations to the high school racquetball players, and thank you to volunteer Head Coach Seth Bouska and volunteer Assistant Coaches Georgette Blomquist, Sanjay Bedi, Bruce Reid, and Zach Banks.

Member Numbers: Walk Across America Mileage

Walk Across America is a national program that allows members to create annual mileage goals, with end-of-year rewards. The idea is to set a mileage goal that is reasonable, attainable, challenging, and motivating. MAC members may join at any time.

For more information or to submit mileage, please contact Claire Galton at galtoncc@gmail.com.

Mileage as of Feb. 28

Ann Blume 6,282; Hal Broughton 25,759; Ann Durfee 48,147; Claire Galton 44,745; Norm Frink 15,063; Vuong Vu 2,394; Shannon Leonetti 84,734; Harriet Maizels 27,494; Tom Neilsen 6,571; Linda Opray 22,123; John Popplewell

3,709; Dee Poujade 14,071; Nancy Sergeant 29,462; Carrie Stucky 29,207; Barbara Wetzel 29,180; Ellen Wax 2,920; Dave Huffman

2,253

23 Years of Bandon Dunes Golf Tournament, Now Greg Marshall Invitational

In 1999, Bandon Dunes Golf Resort opened on the southern Oregon Coast, and many a person made the trek there not knowing what to expect. Greg Marshall — a longtime MAC member who was instrumental in forming the Golf Committee — was one of those people. During a Golf Committee meeting in early 2000, he brought an idea to the table: Put a group together from MAC to make the trip out to Bandon. The proposal passed, and Marshall recognized it was time to get to work on making this happen.

“During that particular Golf Committee meeting, Greg pulled me aside and said, ‘Do you think we can pull this off?’ Having been to Bandon myself, I said, ‘Hell yes!’” recalls MAC member George A Johnson. The planning commenced, and in its first year (2000), the event was scheduled for Thanksgiving weekend. It continued to be that weekend for several years. During the first few years, it also happened to fall on the same weekend as the OSU Beavers and Oregon Ducks football game, with supporters waging outrageous bets. “Even I got caught up in the rage once, betting Greg that if the Ducks won, I would don his actual U of O game jersey and agree to be photographed,” Johnson, a Beavers fan,

remembers. “Yup, it did happen, and I’ve never seen pictures sent back to Portland so fast!”

Year in and year out, the event continued, with participants looking forward to it each year. “We were indeed blessed with good weather some years and torrential rain other years,” Johnson says. “One particular year, when walking down 18 on Saturday afternoon with Greg and our partners, the warm sun washed over us at 65 degrees. I shot my best round ever, 76.” Over the next several years, participants ebbed and flowed. “One year saw a full field of 40 participants — and, yes, Greg continued to lead the charge,” Johnson recalls. “He was slowing a bit but always guided us MAC members and friends to what turned into an epic annual event.”

By MAC Golf and Athletic Committee decree, the Bandon event was coined the Greg Marshall Invitational. Early in 2019, the baton of leading the event was passed to Johnson by Marshall, his wife, Nancy, and the Golf Committee. “This year will mark year 23 of the event,” Johnson states. “I take great pride in carrying Greg’s legacy of the MAC and Bandon Dunes, always knowing that Greg’s watchful eye will ensure all MAC members have an epic time.”

Event Information

Friday, Dec. 1-Sunday, Dec. 3

Bandon Dunes/Pacific Dunes /Sheep Ranch

Price: $580

Includes:

• Double occupancy room (members share a room with another member)

• Buffet breakfast vouchers for Saturday and Sunday

• Informal foursome vs. foursome golf competition on Saturday with awards for first, second, and third place

• Saturday group dinner at Trails End restaurant at Bandon Trails

• Casual round of golf on Sunday

• Optional Friday green fee add-on

Bandon is a “walking-only” golf resort. Caddies are available to reserve at the cost of the participant.

Reservations open for member: 10 a.m. Friday, April 14

Reservation open for guests: 10 a.m. Monday, May 22

Max capacity: 31

Register at themac.com using registration code GOE1201

Russ Dodge, Aaron Marshall, George Johnson, and Greg Marshall

BANDON DUNES

New Year, New Coaches

The coaching staff for the MAC Climbing Team has seen significant changes going into the 2022-2023 season. When longtime Head Coach Drew White, who led the program from 2012-2022, was promoted to the Outdoor Department Manager in 2022, Justin Rom became head coach for the 20222023 season. Finally, with the departure of assistant coach Chi Harris, the coaching staff needed to almost be completely rebuilt. Fortunately, the new staff are not totally unfamiliar faces.

Originally from the California foothills, Rom began climbing as a senior in high school and would regularly make trips up the hill to climb Donner Lake, Lake Tahoe, and Yosemite. In 2011, he moved to Portland and began working at the club as a lifeguard and swim instructor. Shortly after, he moved to the Outdoor department, working under White beginning in 2012. Over the past decade, Rom has helped grow and develop the competitive and recreational sides of the climbing program, focusing for the last three years on coaching and route setting. In his new position, he looks forward to building on the program’s years of success.

Page Brady was hired as a part-time coach with the Climbing Team in April 2022 and was promoted to a full-time position this year. She grew up in Southern California and began climbing competitively as a freshman in high school. Her team would take monthly

trips to climb outdoors in Joshua Tree, Big Bear, and Malibu. Brady has been coaching for six years, enjoys working with athletes to help them progress in their goals, and has led many athletes to compete at the national level. When not in the Climbing Gym, she enjoys spending her time hiking, playing with her dog, and working on pyrography projects.

Gabe Laurent is a born and raised Portlander and former MAC athlete. He began competitively climbing at age 6, joining the MAC Climbing Team at age 12, and competing with MAC for the rest of his youth climbing career. Laurent was a regional champion several times over and competed at 10 National Championships. Throughout his years on the team, he had the opportunity to climb at local crags like Broughton’s Bluff, as well as make trips out to Smith Rock and Bishop, California. He began working with the team in October and, as a coach, he hopes to give athletes the same great experience he enjoyed in his time on the team.

Trout Hartung is completely new to the MAC Climbing Team this year, joining as an assistant coach after graduating at the end of 2022. He has lived in many states throughout his youth and has also spent serval years traveling overseas. He started climbing at the age of 15 for Alaska Rock Gym’s competitive climbing team and has been an active climber ever since. Trout moved to Oregon when he started college at Oregon State University to

Climbers Qualify for Nationals

The MAC Climbing Team competed at USAC Youth Bouldering Division 1 Championships the weekend of Feb. 11 in Lynnwood, Washington. MAC finished in second place as a team, with seven athletes qualifying for national championships, and one athlete, Brooks McLemore, taking third place in the Male Youth B (15 and under) category.

become a mechanical engineer. During his time in college, he coached OSU’s climbing team for two years and participated in several small trips to Smith Rock. Trout has a great love for the sport of climbing and how it helps individuals maintain a healthy lifestyle, develop academic, professional, and interpersonal skills.

While the team navigated a significant transition period, these coaches have kept the team moving forward, with MAC Climbing once again being named Region 12 Bouldering Team Champions. They also placed second at Divisional Championships against all climbing teams from Oregon, Washington, and Alaska, and will have seven athletes competing in the Bouldering discipline at Youth Nationals in July.

Nationally qualified athletes Austin Oviatt and Jack Urness

MAC Climbing Coaches Page Brady, Trout Hartung, Gabe Laurent, and Justin Rom

GET READY FOR SUMMER CAMPS

MAC hosts many camps and classes led by passionate instructors who are ready to keep kids inspired and challenged this summer. From competitive and recreational sports to off-site adventures and programs designed for younger children, there’s something for every interest and skill level.

REGISTRATION DATES

April 11 – Weeks 1-4

April 12 – Weeks 5-8

April 13 – Weeks 9-12

April 21 – Guest Registration

The Summer Program Guide is available at themac.com.

Test Your Fitness at This Year’s Decathlon & Pentathlon

The MAC Decathlon may be the most misunderstood event at MAC. It is not a macho contest of strength and prowess, a way for the fittest members to show off, or an intense competition for glory. It’s not about getting one’s name “up on the board.” It is simply a way for participants to test themselves against themselves and to find the holes in their fitness.

The Decathlon started 48 years ago at a time when one of the biggest debates in sports was about what sport had the best allaround athlete. A televised event was won by Bob Seagren, a pole vaulter. Track and field athletes know it is the pole vault that separates talented multi-event people from decathletes. So why not have a competition that is about being the best?

As the community has learned more about healthy lifestyles and benefitted from the last 50 years of sports science, the vision of the club’s decathlon/pentathlon also has changed. For some members, it has been a record of their continued fitness for decades. Thanks to technology, it is now easier than ever to record one’s own performance. For other members, the challenges of life have meant exploring new events. There is nothing like exploring

a new activity and making new friends at MAC.

The Decathlon is a test of conditioning, speed, skill, and strength. Participants complete at least 10 out of a list of 18 fitness events (such as pull-ups, vertical leap, or basketball free throws) over the course of three weeks. This year, the Pentathlon has been added. Not having enough time for 10 events, or only finding nine strong events, should not be a reason for not taking an annual measurement of one’s fitness. Participants in the Pentathlon pick two events from two categories and one from a third. Those five events can also become a core fitness program. Endurance, strength, and speed are the foundations of any good program, and working on all three enhances overall performance in sport and life’s tasks.

To help rebuild community post-COVID, this year the Fitness & Decathlon Committee encourages members who participate to help score their fellow members. It is a great way to meet new members and share like experiences and tips. Those who are new to the event and those who have done it before also are invited to bring a friend or two. Take this opportunity to launch into lifelong fitness this May.

Report of Independent Auditors

The Management and Audit Committee of Multnomah Athletic Club and Subsidiaries

Report on the Audit of the Financial Statements Opinion

We have audited the consolidated financial statements of Multnomah Athletic Club and Subsidiaries, which comprise the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2022 and 2021, and the related consolidated statements of activities, functional expenses, and cash flows for the years then ended, and the related notes to the consolidated financial statements.

In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Multnomah Athletic Club and Subsidiaries as of December 31, 2022 and 2021, and the changes in their net assets and their cash flows for the years then ended in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

Basis for Opinion

We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAS). Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Statements section of our report. We are required to be independent of Multnomah Athletic Club and Subsidiaries and to meet our other ethical responsibilities, in accordance with the relevant ethical requirements relating to our audits. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion.

Emphasis of Matter

As discussed in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements, in 2022, Multnomah Athletic Club and Subsidiaries adopted new accounting guidance Accounting Standards Codification Topic 842, Leases. Our opinion is not modified with respect to this matter.

Responsibilities of Management for the Financial Statements

Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the consolidated financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, and for the design, implementation, and maintenance of internal control relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

In preparing the financial statements, management is required to evaluate whether there are conditions or events, considered in the aggregate, that raise substantial doubt about Multnomah Athletic Club and Subsidiaries’ ability to continue as a going concern within one year after the date that the financial statements are available to be issued.

Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Statements

Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is not absolute assurance and therefore is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with GAAS will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control. Misstatements are considered material if there is a substantial likelihood that, individually or in the aggregate, they would influence the judgment made by a reasonable user based on the consolidated financial statements.

In performing an audit in accordance with GAAS, we:

• Exercise professional judgment and maintain professional skepticism throughout the audit.

• Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to fraud or error, and design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks. Such procedures include examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements.

• Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of Multnomah Athletic Club and Subsidiaries’ internal control. Accordingly, no such opinion is expressed.

• Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of significant accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluate the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements.

• Conclude whether, in our judgment, there are conditions or events, considered in the aggregate, that raise substantial doubt about Multnomah Athletic Club and Subsidiaries’ ability to continue as a going concern for a reasonable period of time.

We are required to communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit, significant audit findings, and certain internal control–related matters that we identified during the audit.

Portland, Oregon February 23, 2023

Multnomah Athletic Club and Subsidiaries

Multnomah Athletic Club and Subsidiaries Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Note 1 – Organization and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Organization – The Multnomah Athletic Club (the Club) is a private, nonproprietary amateur athletic club located in Portland, Oregon. The Club was formed in 1891 and conducts various athletic and social activities, and provides food and beverage service to its members and their guests.

Principles of consolidation – The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Club and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, MAC Block 7, LLC, Design Center PDX, LLC, and MAC 21, LLC (collectively referred to as the LLCs). The LLCs are Oregon limited liability companies, in which the Club is the sole member. The LLCs were created for the sole purpose of holding property that the Club owns adjacent to its current facilities. All material intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated and all references henceforth are referred to as “the Club.”

Basis of presentation – The Club, as a not-for-profit organization, follows the accounting guidance prescribed by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) for not-for-profit organizations.

The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared on the accrual basis of accounting in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Net assets and revenues, gains, and losses are classified based on the existence or absence of donor- imposed restrictions. Accordingly, net assets of the Club and changes therein are classified and reported as follows:

Board-designation of net assets without donor restrictions – The Board of Trustees of the Club has established Board-designated net assets without donor restrictions (Club equity) accounts for facility replacement and property. The Board-designated property fund portion of Club equity reflects the net book value of all Club property, plant, and equipment in addition to cash equivalents and less related liabilities.

Board-designated sources include initiation fees and designated investment income less related income taxes, and the difference between actual depreciation expense and Board-approved capital funding. The facility replacement fund represents the investment balances accumulated from contributions made to the fund and from earnings on these investments, less related expenses. Amounts have been contributed annually to the facility replacement fund. Transfers between funds may occur as directed by the Board of Trustees.

Cash and cash equivalents – The Club values its cash equivalents at cost, which approximates fair value. All highly-liquid instruments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less are considered cash equivalents.

Accounts receivable – Accounts receivable consist primarily of unpaid member dues and other fees. The allowance for doubtful accounts is determined by management based on historical charge-off activity. Account balances are charged off against the allowance after all means of collection have been exhausted and the potential for recovery is considered remote. The Club’s membership accounts are proposed for suspension after accounts are 90 days past due. Accounts may also be sent to a collection agency after the account has been suspended.

Inventories – Inventories of liquor, food, beer, wine, soda mix, sundries, towels, ready to wear and sportswear are stated at the lower of cost (first-in, first-out) or net realizable value.

Multnomah Athletic Club and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statement of Functional Expenses for the Year Ended December 31, 2022

Multnomah Athletic Club and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statement of Functional Expenses for the Year Ended December 31, 2021

See accompanying notes.

Multnomah Athletic Club and Subsidiaries

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Note 1 – Organization and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)

Investments and investment return – The Club carries investments in marketable mutual funds, which comprise its entire investment portfolio, on the consolidated balance sheets at their readily determinable fair values based on quotations from national securities exchanges. Interest and dividend income and unrealized and realized gains and losses, net of investment expenses, are included in the accompanying consolidated statements of activities.

Property, plant, and equipment – Property, plant, and equipment are stated at cost. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets:

Clubhouse and improvements 5-40 years

Equipment, furniture, and fixtures 3-7 years

Parking structure and athletic facilities 10-40 years

Software and technology 3 years

Property, plant, and equipment acquisitions, renewals, projects and improvements exceeding $2,500 are capitalized. Maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred. Upon disposal of property subject to depreciation, the accounts are relieved of the related costs and accumulated depreciation and the resulting gains and losses are reflected in the consolidated statements of activities.

Membership dues – Membership dues are recognized as revenue in the applicable membership period as the related performance obligations are met ratably over such membership period.

Initiation fees – The Club collects a portion of initiation fees from prospective members as they are placed on the lottery intake list and includes these amounts in deferred revenue. The Club also has programs in place to promote prepayment of initiation fees for juniors and spouses. Initiation fees are recognized as revenue over a three-year period once admitted into the Club, which corresponds to the timing of the Club’s new member lottery which has historically taken place approximately every three years.

Membership dues and initiation fees are collected primarily from Club members within the Portland metropolitan area.

Athletics – The Club offers various athletic programs (camps, sports teams, personal training, lessons, events, tournaments, etc.) for its members. Revenue for athletics is recognized as the related camp, lesson or event occurs.

Restaurants and catering – Restaurants revenue is recognized at the point of sale. Catering revenue is recognized as the related catering event occurs.

Other departments – Mporium (gift shop), Marketing and Communications (advertising sales), and Design Center rental income is recognized at the point of sale or as the underlying services have been performed.

Multnomah Athletic Club and Subsidiaries Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Note 1 – Organization and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)

Contributions and grants – The Club recognizes contributions and grants when cash, securities, or other assets; an unconditional promise to give; or a notification of a beneficial interest is received. Conditional promises to give – that is, those with a measurable performance obligation or other barrier and a right of return – are not recognized until the condition on which they depend have been substantially met in accordance with FASB Accounting Standards Codification 958-605 – Not-forProfit Entities: Revenue Recognition. At December 31, 2022 and 2021 the Club had conditional contributions of approximately $2,900,000 related to the Employee Retention Credit established by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, that were not recorded as revenue as the conditions had not been substantially met.

Taxes on unrelated business income – The Club is a tax-exempt organization and is not subject to federal or state income taxes, except for unrelated business income, in accordance with Section 501(c)(7) of the Internal Revenue Code.

The Club’s wholly-owned LLCs are limited liability companies for which no separate income taxes have been recorded in the accompanying consolidated financial statements as the entities are disregarded for tax purposes. Income and loss is allocated to the sole member, the Club.

The Club recognizes the tax benefit from uncertain tax positions only if it is more likely than not that the tax positions will be sustained on examination by the tax authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. The tax benefit is measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. The Club recognizes interest and penalties related to income tax matters, if any, in taxes on unrelated business income. During the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, the Club recognized no interest or penalties and had no material uncertain tax positions.

Multnomah Athletic Club and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Years Ended December 31, 2022 and 2021

Functional allocation of expenses – The costs of providing various programs and supporting services have been summarized on a functional basis in the consolidated statements of functional expenses. Accordingly, certain costs have been allocated among the programs and supporting services benefited.

The costs of the Club’s various activities and programs have been summarized on a departmental basis in the accompanying schedule of departmental revenues and expenses, presented as supplementary information. Accordingly, certain costs have been allocated among the departments benefited.

During the year ended December 31, 2021, the Club began allocating expenses directly to the programs and supporting services benefited. Depreciation expense, property taxes, and insurance are reported under support services and not allocated across departments.

Use of estimates – The preparation of consolidated financial statements, in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles, requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from these estimates.

Adoption of new accounting standards – On January 1, 2019, the Club adopted Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2016-02 Leases, and all subsequent amendments to the ASU (collectively, “ASC 842”). The primary effects of the amendment are to recognize lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet and to disclose certain information about leasing arrangements. The Club adopted ASC 842 as of January 1, 2022, using the modified retrospective approach, which included a number of practical expedients to: a) not reassess whether any expired or existing contracts are or contain leases, b) not reassess the lease classification for any expired or existing leases, and c) not reassess initial direct costs for any existing leases. The Club has also chosen the option to not restate comparative periods prior to the adoption of the new lease accounting standard. The Club has elected to use the risk-free rate for the initial and subsequent measurement of lease liabilities. The risk-free rate is determined using a period comparable with the lease term. At adoption the Club recorded a right-of-use (ROU) asset and a lease liability of $1,058,255 and $1,078,410, respectively.

See accompanying notes.

Subsequent events – Subsequent events are events or transactions that occur after the consolidated balance sheets date but before consolidated financial statements are available to be issued. The Club recognizes in the consolidated financial statements, the effects of all subsequent events that provide additional evidence about conditions that existed at the date of the consolidated balance sheets, including the estimates inherent in the process of preparing the consolidated financial statements. The Club’s consolidated financial statements do not recognize subsequent events that provide evidence about conditions that did not exist at the date of the consolidated balance sheets but arose after the consolidated balance sheets date and before the consolidated financial statements are available to be issued. The Club has evaluated subsequent events through February 23, 2023, which is the date the consolidated financial statements were available to be issued.

Note 2 – Liquidity and Availability

Financial assets available for general expenditure, that is, without donor or other restrictions limiting their use, within one year of the balance sheet date, comprise the following for the years ending December 31:

The Club’s cash flows have minimal seasonal variations during the year. Operating fund surpluses have historically been transferred to the property fund but are not required to be and could be retained for general operations if needed. Further, the Board designates a funding amount yearly from the operating fund to the property fund for capital improvements. This amount could be reduced or eliminated if needed to fund operations with Board approval. In addition, the Club has $30,815,768 and $37,294,384 in long-term investments, designated by the Board, as of December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively, which could be released for general expenditure if needed with Board approval.

continued on page 70

Multnomah Athletic Club and Subsidiaries Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

continued from page 69

Note 3 – Property, Plant, and Equipment

Property, plant, and equipment consist of the following as of December 31:

The Club incurred operating lease expenses of $241,908 and $295,748 during the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively. These expenses are included in support services on the consolidated statement of activities.

Developer agreement – Effective December 20, 2019, the Club entered into an agreement with a developer for the construction of a residential building on a parcel of land owned by the Club. The developer will construct on the property a parking garage for use by the Club, including a tunnel to connect the Club’s existing parking garage. The Club will contribute up to $650,000 of the cost to design and construct the tunnel. Prior to construction the Club and developer will enter into a ground lease agreement under which the developer will lease the property from the Club. Upon completion of the project, the developer can elect: 1) To provide the Club parking through a ground lease or 2) To provide the Club parking through a commercial condominium unit. The Developer has submitted plans to the City’s Design Review Commission for approval. The project was approved by the Design Commission and ultimately approved by City council. There is one final potential approval through the Land Use Board of Appeals (LUBA) which is expected to be approved July of 2023 with construction commencing in late summer of 2023.

Legal contingencies – The Club, in the ordinary course of business, may become a defendant in certain claims and legal actions. In the opinion of management, after consultation with legal counsel, there are no matters or potential claims presently known to the Club that are expected to have a material adverse effect on the financial condition of the Club.

Construction in progress at December 31, 2022 and 2021 consists primarily of costs related to various remodeling projects.

Note 4 – Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities

Accounting literature defines fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability (i.e., the “exit price”) in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The valuation techniques used are based on observable and unobservable inputs. Observable inputs reflect market data obtained from independent sources, while unobservable inputs reflect the Club’s market assumptions. These two types of inputs create the following fair value hierarchy:

Level 1 – Inputs are unadjusted, and represent quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities at the measurement date.

Level 2 – Inputs (other than quoted prices included in Level 1) are either directly or indirectly observable for the asset or liability through correlation with market data at the measurement date.

Level 3 – Inputs reflect management’s best estimate of what market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability at the measurement date. Consideration is given to the risk inherent in the valuation technique and/or the risk inherent in the inputs to the model.

The Club used the following methods and significant assumptions to estimate fair value for its assets and liabilities measured and carried at fair value in the consolidated financial statements:

Investments – Investments are comprised of marketable mutual funds. Marketable mutual fund fair values are based on quoted market prices. If a quoted market price is not available, fair value is estimated using quoted market prices for similar funds.

The following is a summary categorization as of December 31, 2022 and 2021 of the Club’s assets based on the level of inputs utilized in determining the value of such investments. The Club does not have any level 2 or level 3 inputs.

Years Ended December 31,

Note 6 – Taxes on Unrelated Business Income

Taxes on unrelated business income result primarily from advertising income in the Club’s Winged M publication, investment earnings including gains on sales of investments, income from catering, and income from rental properties. The effective tax rate applied to these items, of approximately 29%, differs from the statutory federal rate of 21% primarily due to state and local taxes, federal and state tax credits and the timing of tax payments.

The consolidated statements of activities include provisions for taxes on unrelated business income as follows as of December 31:

As of December 31, 2022 and 2021, the Club does not have any liabilities that are required to be measured at fair value. There were no changes in valuation methodologies or assumptions during the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021.

Note 5 – Leases

Operating leases – The Club leases certain office equipment and parking structures under right-of-use operating lease agreements. Future minimum payments under those leases are as follows:

In accordance with the requirements related to accounting for uncertainty in income taxes, the Club determined that it had no unrecognized tax benefits at December 31, 2022 and 2021. The Club files an exempt organization income tax return and an unrelated business income tax return in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and a corporate tax return with the Oregon Department of Revenue and the City of Portland.

Note 7 – Employee Benefit Plan

The Club has a salary deferral retirement savings plan under the provisions of Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code whereby participating employees may defer a portion of their gross wages. The Club makes contributions to the plan of 3% of the base salary of employees and also matches 100% of the first 3% of the employee deferral. Total contributions to the plan for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021 were $897,767 and $752,311, respectively. In addition, the Club pays a portion of administrative expenses of the plan.

Note 8 – Concentration of Credit Risk

Financial instruments that potentially subject the Club to concentrations of credit risk consist principally of cash and cash equivalents and investments. The Club places substantially all of its cash and liquid investments with financial institutions; however, cash balances may periodically exceed federally insured limits. To date, the Club has not experienced losses at these institutions. Marketable securities, consisting of both debt and equity instruments, are generally placed in a variety of managed funds administered by an investment manager.

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

All Winged M real estate advertising is subject to the 1988 Federal Fair Housing Amendments Act, which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, handicap or family status, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.”

Announcements

BALLROOM DANCE – Would you enjoy an evening out in your formal wear? Social hour, Formal dinner, Live music, Large dance floor. Portland Heights Dance Club Est. 1900. Find us at www.Portlandheightsdc.com

Retired Episcopal priest & wife (my lovely parents) are looking for a longterm rental condo or small home to rent for 12-24 months in the Portland/Lake Oswego area. Very attentive renters. Please contact Lucy Reynolds at 503-781-4003 or lucyreynoldspdx@gmail.com

For Rent

PROFESSIONAL OFFICE SPACE –

Member-owned 2,600 square foot Historic Goose Hollow office available, with an entire 2nd floor, 6 private offices and 6 flex spaces. Can be divided. Amenities include A/C, kitchenette, alarm system, and off-street parking. Enjoy quiet, tree lined streets that are both convenient to all freeways while just outside of the city center. Rent starts at $18.00/SF/year, or $300 for a single office with all utilities included. Half-month signing

Classifieds

For Sale

$329K | The Legends | #707 | 662 sq. ft. Cozy unit with fireplace, balcony & views. Updated floors, HVAC/Thermostat, interior paint, lights, blinds and shades. Also includes in-unit washer/ dryer, 2 secure tandem parking spots available. Building features Concierge, Gym, Movie Theater & Hot Tub. MLS#:22639473 | Contact: Michael Kafoury – 503-490-0344 – Urban Next Realty

LOVELY HOUSE IN PROVENCE –1/10 share ownership, 3 BR, 2 BA , Lg. terrace. Visit www.chezmirabel.com to view property. 95k, seller pays closing costs. Katy Qualman 503-388-0464.

Central Oregon

www.BlackButte182.com

Visit website to appreciate. 4 BR/2.5 BA on Big Meadow Golf #16. Sleeps up to 12. Gourmet kitchen, big screen TV, oversized hot tub, spacious deck, bikes. 503-246-2601 or Byron@AdvancedMedSystems.net

SUNRIVER – Fremont Crossing, 2,200+, 3 BR, 3.5 BA, 2 masters, slps 8, all amenities, access to The Cove, Sage Springs. Hot tub, p-pong, bikes, no smkg/pets. 503-706-8886

SUNRIVER – Quelah 3 BR (K, Q, 2 sets of bunks), 2 BA, private pool, spa & tennis courts. 503-329-1653. DCCA #762

SUNRIVER – 3 Bedroom Condo Sleeps 8. Tennis courts, pool, spa, and kiddie pool on the property. Close to SHARC, Nature Ctr, Marina, Stables, and Village. 503-984-7200

Coastal GEARHART – Beautiful and spacious 4 BR, 3 BA, sleeps 8+. Near beach, park, golf, tennis. Gourmet kitchen, TV room, Wi-Fi, great deck/yard. jim@whittgroup.com 503-804-5606, www.gearharthouse.com

GEARHART OCEAN VIEW CONDO

2-Bed / 2-Bath – Great deck!  www.st-maison.com

International

PARIS APARTMENT: At Notre Dame. Elegant 2 BR, 2 BA, with lift. 202-285-1201

PROVENCE: 4 BR, 4 BA Amazing views. Owned by MAC member. 202-285-1201

Out of State

INDIAN WELLS – S. PALM DESERT / NEAR THE VINTAGE CLUB

3-Bed / 2-Bath Mid-Century Pool Home. www.st-maison.com

PALM SPRINGS – 1-level, fully furnished Twin Palms home. 4 beds/2.5 baths. Sleeps 8 Private pool/spa. Short term rental preferred Jan-April. 503-449-4964 3D tour: TheAnzaPalmSprings.com

2023 CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING RATES

Member rate $10.75 per line

Member business rate $19.50 per line

Non-member rate $19.50 per line

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More Than Dance

By Josephine Grimmer

The Multnomah Athletic Club is home to a vast variety of sports and activities that all stand out in their own ways. But one special team that I’d like to shed some light on is the MAC Dance Team.

I first joined the Junior Company dancers in sixth grade and continued dancing with them until my freshman year of high school. During these formative years, I had the opportunity to grow up alongside some amazing dancers, and I got to experience what it was like to be a part of a team that, to this day, makes me feel welcome and gives me a sense of belonging. These unique bonds that are formed between MAC dancers during hours of practice is something so admirable, and it shows just how much of an impact team spirit can have on someone.

This year, I attended New York City Dance Alliance (NYCDA) as a member of the Tap Company with the rest of the MAC dancers. NYCDA is a traveling dance competition that allows dancers to take classes from world-renowned choreographers and learn from other companies in a collaborative dance convention. After each day of classes, dance teams perform their routines for a panel of professional dancers to receive a score and specific critiques in order to improve their

performances. The MAC Company, in total, pitched in 15 different pieces at this competition over three different days, ranging from solos, trios, small groups, large group productions, and a large variety of different styles. These dancers work so hard every day after school and during weekends so they could not only create these pieces and execute them, but actually breathe life into them and create something that’s more than a dance — a true performance.

This company cares so much about their routines and much more about each other, and that is shown through the professionalism, performance, and mutual support that the dancers give one another.

One big aspect of this company is the positive influence that the older company members have on the younger dancers. By helping with stage makeup and giving good advice, the main company acts as mentors for the younger company members and gives them the encouragement they need to work hard during their classes and rehearsals. With the help of their coaches and teammates, the MAC Company dancers have made a huge impact in both their competitions and at the club itself. This team is so special, and I can’t wait to see how the rest of this competition season will unfold.

Josephine Grimmer is a senior in high school and a member of MAC Dance’s Tap Company.

Key gifts help propel multiple sclerosis research

Providence Multiple Sclerosis Center is privileged to care for more than 4,000 patients and their families. It is the largest MS center in the Pacific Northwest.

“As our team looks to the future, we believe our donors will help us shut down MS safely and effectively,” says Stanley Cohan,

M.D., Ph.D.,

medical director of Providence MS Center.

Donors – including long-time supporters Bonita and Greg Gorsche, who recently helped launch the Multiple Sclerosis Endowed Chair at Providence MS Center – are instrumental in unlocking new discoveries and treatments.

Gifts to the endowed chair will bring more world-class scientists, clinical trials and support programs to our center. Our patients are eagerly awaiting.

Learn how you can support MS research: ProvidenceFoundations.org/brainandspine

As our team looks to the future, we believe our donors will help us shut down MS.

– Stanley Cohan, M.D., Ph.D.