JR stories

Dexter apologizes for comparison to Holocaust

Rep. Maxine Dexter apologized for her remarks on the floor of the House of Representatives last month connecting the Holocaust with the ongoing situation in Gaza.

Dexter, a Democrat who represents most of East and North Portland along with eastern Multnomah County, northeastern Clackamas Co…

Determination, collaboration bring Beaverton menorah lighting to life

One of the hallmarks of Chanukah is public menorah lightings. With Chanukah’s celebration of light and the mitzvah of sharing the holiday’s message of Jewish self-determination, setting up a large menorah in a public space, and kindling the light of the season makes perfect sense. Numero…

Young families' Reset and Refresh launches

Reset and Refresh, the Shabbat-centered cohort program for mixed-heritage couples to explore Jewish identity and practice, is debuting a family version.

The first cohort of Reset and Refresh for young families, defined as having children ages 0-5, begins Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026. The program�…

Save a life - Learn to use an AED

In any community, knowing how to respond in a moment of crisis can improve the chances of positive outcomes. This is especially true when it comes to cardiac arrest, as almost 2200 people a day suffer heart attacks in the US. Statistically, at some point, you will know someone who has one. …

Community steps up to cover SNAP shortage

Sometimes, when government fails, the Jewish community succeeds.

A lapse in federal appropriations by the United States Congress brought many government services to a halt for a record 43 days beginning in October. Nearly one million federal employees were furloughed, many others continued …