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Jewish Community Center Campaign Pace Increases
Southwestern Jewish Press, February 7, 1958, Pages 1, 7
On Monday, February 3, over thirty San Diego communal and religious leaders attended the luncheon and tour of the Jewish Community building development at 54th and University. After the luncheon in the Hebrew Home for the Aged, the group previewed the new $600,000 Jewish Community Center scheduled to open officially on April 1.
Seymour Rabin, chairman of the “Building Completion Fund” campaign announced that over $40,000 has been raised since the drive got under way several weeks ago.
The drive to raise an additional minimum of $150,000 in cash was established to offset rising construction costs. The structure is acclaimed by all who have seen it in a recent preview. The next few weeks will see an intensive effort on the part of all campaign leadership and workers to reach the entire community., An extraordinary dinner will be held during this period to bring the campaign to a successful conclusion.
The general reaction by the outstanding city leaders to the 29, 000 square foot structure considered a “contribution from the Jewish community to the whole of San Diego,” was highly favorable. A member of the tour lauded the officers of the Center when he stated, “You and your community should feel extremely proud of the results of your planning and activity in behalf of this beautiful structure and for the principles upon which your Jewish Community Center is dedicated. It deserves the full hearted support of every member of the community.”
Among the important leaders present at the luncheon tour were:
Wendell Stubbs, Security First Nat’l Bank; Bishop Richard Ackerman and Father Camion, Catholic Diocese of S.D.; James Van Dusen, Pres. Lions Club, East S.D.; Omar Mitchell, Secy, Lions Club, East S.D.; Charles T. Byrne, Pres., Kiwanis Club, East S.D.; Don Keller, District Attorney; Howard Ritter, Vice-Pres, Security First Nat’l Bank; Frank E. Curran, City Councilman; George Lykos, Architect; Graydon Hoffman, Vice-Pres, Bank of America; A.J. Sutherland, Pres., Security First Nat’l Bank; Jean DuPaul, S.D. City Attorney; George W. Sears, Vice-Pres, First Nat’l Bank; Jean DePaul, S.D. City Attorney; George W. Sears, Vice-Pres; First Nat;l Bank; Mrs. Mary McMullen, Principal, Crawford Senior High Scxhool; Nathan Naiman, Principal, Oak Park Elementary; Dr. George Hall, Ass’t Sup’t of Instruction, Bd. Of Ed; Mr. Johnson, S.D. State College; Thomas W. Sefton, S.D. Trust and Savings Bank; Pat Connors, Pres., East S.D. Chamber of Commerce; Darrell Smith, Supervisor, Physical Education, Bd. Of Ed.; Robert C. Dent, Supervisor; Don Nelson, Bank of America; Maxwell Kaufman, Pres., S.D. Hebrew Home; and William Schwartz, Pres., J.C.C.
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Ornstein Becomes Ninth Fund President
Southwestern Jewish Press, February 7, 1958, Page 1
Dr. Walter Ornstein was elected President of the United Jewish Fund at their February Board of Directors meeting held last Tuesday. He succeeds Milton Y. Roberts as leader of the Jewish central community organization.
Others elected to office for 1958 were: Carl M. Esenoff, Abe Abramson and Seymour Rabin, Vice-Presidents; William Colt, Treasurer, and Mrs. Harry Wax, Secretary.
Elected to the Executive Committee were Irving Alexander, Mrs. Gabriel Berg, Martin Gleich, Dr. A.P. Nasatir, Mrs. Abe Ratner, Dr. Joshua Rittoff and Dr. R.M. Stone.
The new president is the ninth leader of the United Jewish Fund which was founded in 1933. Past Presidents are Judge Jacob Weinberger, Nathan F. Baranov, Eli H. Levenson, Victor Schulman, Murray D. Goodrich, Louis Moorsteen, Morris W. Douglas, and retiring Milton Y. Roberts.
Dr. Ornstein, who recently led the 1957 campaign to a most successful culmination along with Victor Schulman as General Campaign Co-Chairman, has achieved an enviable record of community service and professional standing in San Diego. A Past Vice-President of the United Jewish Fund and President of the Jewish Social Service Agency, Ornstein, professionally, is the Chief of Staff of the Hillside Hospital. He is a founder and honorary President of the New Life Club, and a member of Beth Jacob Synagogue and Temple Beth Israel.
In accepting the presidency of the United Jewish Fund, Dr. Ornstein expressed his feeling in being honored by this new assignment, and his privilege in serving the entire Jewish community.
“The United Jewish Fund,” he said, “is in San Diego, the truly central Jewish community organization. It serves all of the Jewish people of our community regardless of their affiliations. It is the bulwark for all worthwhile national and overseas organizations and I am exceedingly proud to be a part of this organization.”
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National President Visits Local Jewish War Veterans
Southwestern Jewish Press, February 7, 1958, Page 1
Mrs. Bertha K. Greenberg, National President of the Jewish War Veterans Auxiliary, will make her official visit to San Diego on Thursday, February 13. There will be a no host dinner at the Lafayette Hotel in her honor at 6:30 p.m. that night, and an open meeting at 8 p.m. also at the Hotel. All members and friends are urged to attend.
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Hadassah To Honor Eleven Organizations at Luncheon Feb. 19
Southwestern Jewish Press, February 7, 1958, Pages 1, 6
Dramatizing the beauty of the major Jewish holidays and their meanings for our times, a pageant-like program will be the featured highlight of Hadassah’s February 19th regular luncheon meeting in the Caribbean Ballroom of the El Cortez Hotel at 11:30 a.m.
With the entire theme built around festive table settings, eleven leading Jewish women’s organizations have been invited as guests of Hadassah to participate in this event. Those organizations include Pioneer Women Shoshana and Negba Groups; Bay City and Birdie Stodel B’nai B’rith Auxiliaries; City of Hope Juniors and Seniors; National Council of Jewish Women; the Sisterhoods of Temple Beth El, Temple Beth Israel, Tifereth Israel and the Ladies Auxiliary of Beth Jacob Synagogue; Women’s League Jewish Community Center; Hebrew Home for the Aged and Brandeis University Women’s Chapter of San Diego.
Each President of the above organizations will preside at her specially decorated table and will welcome her own members and Hadassah’s members.
A stirring narration highlighting each of the holidays will be presented by Mrs. A.P. Nasatir with musical accompaniment being offered by Cantor Israel Dubner and Cantor Joseph Cysner. Mrs. Herbert Malley will be piano accompanist.
In commemoration of Hadassah’s important role as a redeemer of the land, the project of Jewish National Fund will be stressed in table decor and at the festival table setting of the holiday of TuB’Shvat.
Co-Chairmen for the February 19th meeting will be Mrs. Sam Cohen, Blue Box Chairman, and Mrs. Edward Binder, Trees Chairman, both of whom coordinate all Jewish National Fund activities for Hadassah here in San Diego.
Since a capacity crowd is expected to attend this festive event reservations are requested for the luncheon at $2.00 per person. Mrs. Morton Thaler, President, invites all friends and members of Hadassah to make Reservations with Mrs. Max Okum and Congress 2-2216.
The second spotlight will fall that afternoon upon a special table composed of Presidents of leading non-Jewish groups who have been invited in an endeavor to better acquaint them with Jewish traditions and customs.
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Wax’s Head 1958 UJF Drive; Drive To Open on March 13
Southwestern Jewish Press, February 7, 1958, Pages 1, 7
First official act of new Fund President, Dr. Walter Ornstein, was the announcement of the acceptance of a husband and wife team to lead the 1958 United Jewish Fund Campaign on behalf of local, national and overseas agencies and the United Jewish Appeal Special Rescue Fund.
Ornstein announced that Harry Wax, long time community leader, will be the General Campaign Co-Chairman. AT the same time leaders of the Women’s Division selected Ida Wax to head their outstanding group in the 1958 effort.
The inaugural meeting of the campaign will be held on Thursday, March 13, with an outstanding international speaker.
In accepting the community assignment both Mr. and Mrs. Wax said “fullest mobilization of the community will be required this year to meet the increased responsibilities toward health and welfare needs both at home and overseas.”
“In spite of the generous response of American communities in 1957—San Diego itself raised an unprecedented amount – the total raised for emergency requirements fell far short of the UJA’s $100,000,000 goal,” they continued.
“The funds raised helped 80,000 refugees to reach Israel and thousands to other countries,” they stated, “but it hardly covered the total cost of helping to absorb those newcomers into the economy of Israel.”
With the announcement by the United Jewish Fund that the 1958 campaign goal will include at least $100,000 again for the United Jewish Appeal Special Rescue Fund, and at least the same amount that was raised in 1957 for the regular campaign, it was pointed out by the chairmen that the “listening heart” of American Jewry and the Jews of San Diego will not let them forge the needs of the thousands of Jews who still must be helped.
Dr. Ornstein, in announcing the appointment of Mr. and Mrs. Wax to lead the 1958 campaign, paid tribute to their past performance and willingness to continue their efforts on behalf of people all over the world. “It is individuals like Harry and Ida,” he said, “who have helped to bring the San Diego Jewish community to a maturity that was thought impossible just a short ten years ago.”
Both Ornstein and the Waxs’ attributed the need for Special Rescue Fund to the continuing exodus of refugees from Eastern Europe and North Africa; the repatriation of Polish Jews from Russia, and the absorption problems resulting from the flow of newcomers to Israel.
The overseas situation is effected by the following factors: (1) the expected 1958 immigration of 70,000 refugees of whom 60,000 will settle in Israel; (2) the renewal of the Joint Distribution committee’s aid Program in Poland to Jewish repatriates from Russia; (3) the slowing down of Israel’s absorption program caused by severe shortage of philanthropic funds.
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Council Women Set For Desert Inn Drawing Feb. 22
Southwestern Jewish Press, February 7, 1958, Page 1
The lure of a white fox shawl, the promise of really danceable music, the excitement of a Las Vegas show, will draw San Diegans by the score to National Council of Jewish Women’s spring dinner-dance, according to Chairman Mrs. Martin Ernest.
Set for Saturday, February 22 at the Palm Room of the U.S. Grant, a Night at the Desert Inn climaxes Council’s giant fund-raising campaign. The winner of their three day vacation in Las Vegas at Wilbur Clark’s Desert Inn Hotel will be announced.
With dance tickets $12.50 a couple, Mrs. Alex Slater, Ticket Chairman, announces that many reservations of parties have already been received.
A cocktail hour precedes dinner, with regular table service rather than a buffet arrangement. There will be dancing to the music of Benny Lagasse through the dinner hour and on into the morning.
Glittering decorations designed by Mrs. Martin Greene will enhance the Las Vegas theme.
Presented by Carlos and Chita, the five act show will follow dinner. At its conclusion, suspense will mount as the luxurious white fox shawl door prize donated by Helka Furs is presented to a fortunate guest, and the name of the couple bound for Las Vegas is told.
Arrangements are being handled by Mrs. David Sapp, and Mrs. Robert Drexler is in xcharge of hospitality. Reservations may be made with Mrs. Alex Slater, AC-2-6582.
Mrs. Melvin Hoffman is Vice-President in charge.
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Temple Beth Israel Elects New Officers
Southwestern Jewish Press, February 7, 1958, Page 1
New officers were elected at a board meeting held on January 28. Chosen as officers were: Murray D. Goodrich, Pres.; Morris W. Douglas, 1st V.P.; Alfred Brooks, 2nd V.P.; Charles L. Silverman, Treas.; and Ben Carnot, Secy.
Mr. Goodrich has served Beth Israel as president in the past. He is chairman of the San Diego County Health Foundation and serves in important posts at California Western and the University of San Diego. He is the Bonds for Israel chairman and has led many county drives and served as president of the United Jewish Appeal.
Directors elected at the annual meeting on January 19 are Dora Eber, Joseph Feldman, David Garfield, Louise Hertz, Dr. Norman Mann, Maury B. Novak, Nathaniel Ratner, Mortimer Rosenbaum, Theodore M. Rosenfield, John Ruskin, Dr. Leo Smollar, Dr. Robert M. Stone and ex-officio, Richard Lustig.
Cantor Julian K. Miller’s contract was renewed for five years.
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Marriage Told
Southwestern Jewish Press, February 7, 1958, Page 2
Joan Karp, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Karp, became the bride of Don Bebb, in a civil ceremony on January 29. A family dinner was held at the Lafayette Hotel.
The young couple attend State College where they are both in their second year.
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Bar Mitzvah
Southwestern Jewish Press, February 7, 1958, Page 2
Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Solomon announce the Bar Mitzvah of their son, Mark Isaiah, Saturday, February 8, at 9:30. The service will be held at Tifereth Israel Synagogue.
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Pioneer Women Plan Annual Purim Ball
Southwestern Jewish Press, February 7, 1958, Page 2
Pioneer Women are preparing for their Annual Purim Ball, which will be held on March 1 in the Ballroom of the House of Hospitality. As in the past there will be a contest for the crown of Queen Esther. The contest is open to any girl who is single and between the ages of sixteen and twenty-two. The winner will receive a “treasure chest” wardrobe donated by downtown merchants. For further information call Lillian Alpert.
A popular orchestra will supply the music for the Ball and a snack bar will be available for refreshments. Admission will be $1.50 with all profits going to Pioneer Women’s institution in Israel.
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(Heart Disease)
Southwestern Jewish Press, February 7, 1958, Page 2
When you contribute to the Heart Fund, you help in the fight against San Diego Country’s leading killer – heart disease. Welcome your “Heart Sunday” volunteer on Sunday, February 23.
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Council Women Plan Show
Southwestern Jewish Press, February 7, 1958, Page 2
Personals
Southwestern Jewish Press, February 7, 1958, Page 2
Mr. and Mrs. Sol Gotkin entertained eighty-five guests at an Open House Sunday, January 26, honoring Mr. Gotkin’s sister, Mrs. Celia Krasnoff who is visiting from Buenos Aires, Argentina. Out of town guest was Benjamin Krasnoff, son of the honoree. Cocktails and a buffet lunch were enjoyed by all the guests.
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Mrs. Henry (Rose) Weinberger well known to San Diegans, was recently married to Joseph Buky and is at present residing in Idaho Falls, Idaho. Mr. Buky and Rose remember the days when they dated during their High school years in Great Falls, Montana.
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Newcomers to San Diego are Dr. and Mrs. Alvin Weiss and their 5 ½ year old daughter Nancy Ann. Dr. Weiss, who practiced dentistry for thirteen year in New York City, has opened an office in San Diego. Mrs. Weiss is the sister of Mrs. Morey Feldman of this city.
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Congratulations to Herbert J. Solomon who is now a partner in the law firm of Rubin and Seltzer.
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Mrs. Nat Mallinger wishes to thank her many friends for their thoughtfulness and cards during her recent illness and hospitalization.
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Frankie Hutler and a group of her friends marked her “sweet sixteen” birthday by a night “On the Town” at the Globe Theatre, with supper at her home.
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Mr. M.A. Nitikman of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, has been visiting his children on the West Coast—two sons in Los Angeles and his daughter, Mrs. Sid Neumann of San Diego. He arrived in time to greet his new grandson in Los Angeles.
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‘A Night in the ‘30’s’ Set by Sisterhood
Southwestern Jewish Press, February 7, 1958, Page 2
On Tuesday, Feb. 11 at 8 p.m., Tifereth Israel Sisterhood will present “A Night in the 30’s” written and directed by Lillian Weiss.
Program Chairman Mrs. Victor Weiss and President, Mrs. Louis Feller invite members of the community to join in the fun at the Synagogue Center. Teenagers and the younger set are welcome. There will be a charge of 50c to adults only.
Participating in the three act play are Joyce and Laurie Singer, Sherri Effron, Beverly, Gary and Nancy Zahalsky, Jeffrey Schriebman, Roxanne Morov, Carol Feller, Nancy Prager, Gloria Weiss, Rona Price, Hannah Jo Schwartz, Garry Effron, Bob Schreibman, Shelly Morey, Sybil Fishman and Sam Lennett.
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Cradle
Southwestern Jewish Press, February 7, 1958, Page 2
Flash! Cedars of Lebanon… Feb 3…. Jane (Cohn) and James Elbogen have a son; Rabbi and Mrs. Morton J. Cohn have a grandson. Details in next issue.
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A daughter, Jill Anne, was born to Dr. and Mrs. Norman D. Sperber on January 22. Jill joins a 2 year old brother, James Irving, in the new home.
Maternal grandparents are Mr. and Mrs. I.S. Seidman of Brooklyn, New York. Paternal grandparents are Mr. and MRs. Robert H. Rubel of Westport, Conn.
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City Manager Talks At ‘Coffee Chat’
Southwestern Jewish Press, February 7, 1958, Page 2
An exciting first for National Council of Jewish Women will be the presentation of the new City Manager, Mr. George E. Bean, at the next Mr. and Mrs. Coffee Chat, Thursday, February 20, according to Chairman Mrs. Simon Reznikoff. At 8 p.m., at the Lafayette Hotel, Mr. Bean will participate in a panel discussion, “San Diego 1958—Boom or Bust?”
Reporting his observations of the city since his arrival last December, Mr. Bean will also discuss future plans for San Diego development.
Mr. Tom Fletcher, Assistant City Manager, and Mr. Harry Silke, Industrial Coordinator, will consider the subjects of Annexation and Industrial Development respectively.
Chairman for the evening is Mrs. Alan Firestone, who will introduce the speakers. Reservations may be made with Mrs. Lester Kraus, BR-7-3206. The refreshment charge is 50c per person.
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Sectarian Trustees For Non-Sectarian Hospital
Southwestern Jewish Press, February 7, 1958, Page 2
Three prominent Los Angeles businessmen—Jewish, Catholic and Protestant—were elected to the board of trustees of National Jewish Hospital at Denver at the institution’s annual meeting this week.
They are, respectively, Sid Rogell, production manager of 20th Century Fox Film Studios; Albert T. Luer, president of the Luer Packing Co.; and Terrell C. Drinkwater, president of Western Air Lines.
The hospital is a free-care, non-sectarian medical center for diseases of the chest.
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Adventures in San Diego Jewish History” is sponsored by Inland Industries Group LP in memory of long-time San Diego Jewish community leader Marie (Mrs. Gabriel) Berg. Our “Adventures in San Diego Jewish History” series will be a regular feature until we run out of history. To find stories on specific individuals or organizations, type their names in our search box, located just above the masthead on the right hand side of the screen. … San Diego Jewish World seeks sponsorships to be placed, as this notice is, just below articles that appear on our site. To inquire, call editor Donald H. Harrison at (619) 265-0808 or contact him via donald.harrison@sdjewishworld.com