Portland, November 4th. Over 600 people raised $150,000 at a special concert featuring Storm Large, Congregation Beth Israel’s Senior Cantor Ida Rae Cahana, and China Forbes. Supporters swayed to the sounds of Thomas Lauderdale and the Pink Martini orchestra.
Under the dome of the historic Temple sanctuary Congregation Beth Israel Board members Linda Georges and Ted Nelson introduced the paddle raise, which – combined with ticket sales and generous sponsorships – generated $150,000. The funds will support spiritual, educational, artistic and social action programming at Beth Israel and throughout the broader community.
The popular concert also featuring the voices of Wendy Westerwelle, Kevin Walsh, the NW Community Gospel Choir and the Pacific Youth Choir, under the direction of Mia Hall Savage.
Guest musicians accompanying the performers included Michael Barnes, John Strege, Bill Crane, Abby Mages, Peter Zisa, Darcy White, Courtney Von Drehle, Ben Sandler and Arthur Steinhorn.
From Congregation Beth Israel:
Congregation Beth Israel is the leading voice of Reform Judaism in Oregon.
We are dedicated to:
- Improving our World through Education, Leadership and Inspiration
- Promoting Traditional Jewish Values of Respect, Justice and Compassion
- Providing an Environment that Inspires Worship, Spirituality and Celebration across the Generations
- Fostering a relationship to God and deepening our connection to Judaism
Steve Bilow took a great shot here, according to the submission to Oregon Jewish Life (magazine).