Adventures in San Diego Jewish History, November 25, 1955, Part 2

Fair Play for Israel (Editorial)
Southwestern Jewish Press, November 25, 1955, Page 3

A recent letter, addressed to the editor of one of our local papers, made us wonder how many other Americans fail to understand the position of Israel, surrounded as she is by seven hostile Arab states, whose leaders have sworn to destroy her?

How would we feel if Canada, Mexico and South America were threatening our extinction and boycotting all trade with us?

Israel may be closer to war today than at any time since 1948. The struggle between the Egyptians and the Israelis could lead to a conflict between East and West. The acquisition of offensive armament from Communist sources will embolden Egypt to attempt to hasten the day of Israel’s “annihilation.”

Obviously Israel, as a matter of self preservation, must take and find the means of defending herself.  The obligation rests with the Western powers and the United States who publicly pledged, in their joint declaration of 1950, to preserve the status quo and military balance between Israel and the Arab States.

There has never been a time when Arab nations fought on the side of the Democracies. The only contact between the Arab nations and the Western Democracies has been their oil reserves.  Is it possible that the hue and cry raised by individuals who write letters to the editor about “fairness to the Arabs” is a cloak for their anti-Semitic feelings?

We trust that our leaders will see that support of the only Democracy in the Middle East means blocking Soviet penetration in a vital area.

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“Look” Looks At The Jews
Southwestern Jewish Press, November 25, 1955, Page 3

In the past year, Jews have been the subject of several lengthy articles by national magazine writers. This week, “Look,” trys (sic, tries) to explore “The Position of the Jews in America Today.”  It is a well organized and compact story of a gentile’s inquiry into some phases of the difficulties of being a Jew.  We were intrigued by the author’s own definition of a Jew.  “A Jew is a member of a historical community held together by common memories, a religious tradition and external pressure.”   This is as good a definition as we have seen, but there is no doubt that some segments of Jewry will disagree with it.

The article is favorable to Jews and indicates a deep desire to understand them. Based on the assumption that whatever people do not understand, they often fear and hate,w e see only value in the “Look” article.

We hope that the many non-Jews and Jews, who read the widely circulated magazine, will acquire greater understanding of each others “differences” and unity as Americans.

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With the Guardians
Southwestern Jewish Press, November 25, 1955, Page 3

By Morrie Pomeranz

The Board of Directors held a dinner meeting at the Mission Valley Club on Nov. 16th … actually a tremendously enthusiastic gathering … several suggestions to stimulate interest or to increase revenue were made – one idea that 10% of all poker and gin winnings be remitted (purely on a voluntary basis) to the Hebrew Home unanimously received—complete disapproval!– Al  Desure has promised an outstanding program for the December meeting — Sam Fisher momentarily halted proceedings with his own report – “Doc” Solomon was appointed chairman to coordinate recreational facilities for new members or those who find it difficult to crash the “sonic barrier of exclusiveness”—All members are encouraged to bring a younger guest for the December meeting to be held at the Mission Valley Country Club – this youth drive is essential to perpetuate Guardians.

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Aurora Lipton, the genial hostess at Vallin’s was stopped by one of the patrons, wit this squawk:  “Don’t you have anything for a cold?”  Aurora smiled pleasantly and went about her chore at seating hungry Guardians.  However, she dumped a full jigger of brandy in the customer’s tea which the waitress served.  But the fellow continued to find fault, for as he walked out he blurted, “Say, Mrs. Lipton, the meal was fine, except the lemon was awfully strong.”

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Granted there is absolutely nothing significant about the following, but last Friday night Murray’s neon sign blanked out to inform the populace that it was GOOCH ON MAIN.

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We cannot authenticate the accuracy of the story as submitted but since two Guardians are involved, the incident bears repetition: Eddie Cantor stopped his sleek Cadillac at the intersection of El Cajon and 48th to await the change of signals.  An M.G. piloted by Martin Borenstein eased up alongside and Martin, looking up at Eddie yelled, “And what question did You miss, stupid!”

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“Fun in the Sun” … The Palm Springs Story

Southwestern Jewish Press, November 25, 1955, Page 3

Located some 140 mile from San Diego, Palm Springs has always been a mecca for sun-loving people. A desert resort that has become a winter playground for the nation, it attracts tourists and visitors from all parts of the world.

The luxurious new hotels and swimming pools make it an ideal vacation playground for the entire family. Some hotels like the Tahquiz Vista features supervised play for children.  Others like the Palm Spring Biltmore specialize in good food and beautiful surroundings.

Whatever your needs, be it for a rest or fun – you will find it at Palm Springs, the desert paradise.

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Letter to the Editor

Southwestern Jewish Press, November 25, 1955, Page 3

Ida Nasatir
Southwestern Jewish Press

Dear Ida

It was a pleasure to hear from you.  Many thanks for your sensitive review of “Majorie Morningstar.”  If we come to San Diego, you know you can count on seeing us… Warmest regards to yourself and to Abe.

Sincerely, Herman (Wouk)

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Professional Schnorrer

Southwestern Jewish Press, November 25, 1955, Page 3

In the world of our European ancestors poverty was so common and need so ever present that the Schnorrer or professional beggar became an accepted and familiar figure.”

The Scnorrer told a tale of real woe, and his wealthy prospect was moved.

“I really would like to give you something,” said the wealthy man, “but I honestly do not have my wallet with me. Could you possibly come back tomorrow?”

“Oh, no,” said the beggar.  “I will not come back tomorrow. You have no idea how much I lose each year by extending credit!”

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L.A. Philharmonic To Open Season December 2

Southwestern Jewish Press, November 25, 1955, Page 4

Four talented young American musicians will be features as guest artists with the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra during its local concert series opening December 2 at 8:30 p.m. at Russ Auditorium.

Alfred Wallenstein will be on the podium for the opening concert and will also conduct concerts on March 22 and April 22. The orchestra’s associate conductor, John Barnett, will take over the baton for the Fall 16 concert.

Guest artist for the De . 2 will be Camilla Wicks, gifted violinist, regarded by many as the “greatest woman violinist of today.”

An all Tschaikowsky program will be conducted by Wallenstein to include the overture to the opera, “The Voye Voda,” “Violin Concerto in D Major” “And Symphony No. 4 in F Minor.”

Barbara Steinbach, local pianist, will play with the orchestra Feb. 16.  Muriel Kerr, pianist  will be the guest artist at the March 22 concert and Donald Gramm, one of the country’s top bassos, will be guest soloist with the orchestra at the April 22 concert.

Tickets are available at Palmer Box Office, 640 Broadway.

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Chaim Weizmann Branch, Poale Zion
Southwestern Jewish Press, November 25, 1955, Page 4

Election of officers for 1955-56 were held recently and the following members will head the roster of officers:

President, I.J. Domnitz; first vice president, Dora Richlin; second-vice president and recording secretary, Philip Abrams; Financial Secretary, Bertha Veitzer; Corresponding secretary, Abraham Olf; Treasurer, Joe Richlin.

Chaver L. Meltzer of the Jewish Naitonal Fund office in L.A. was the installing officer.  The celebration of the 50 Jubilee of the founding of Poale Zion in America was a most successful affair and a financial report will be given at the next meeting.

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U.S.O. Slates 5th Annual Event

Southwestern Jewish Press, November 25, 1955, Page 4

The fifth annual USO weekend will be held November 24-25-26-27 and residents of San Deigo County are invited to join civilian and military leaders in this outstanding event.

The four day observance will be open by honoring national USO “Pal Day” and Thanksgiving Day with home hospitality for service personnel.  Through the five USO operating agencies, thousands of men and women of the Armed Force will be invited into the homes of the community for this occasion.

Saturday November 26th, USO Football game, Naval Training Center vs Marine Corps Recruit Depot at Marine Corps Recruit Depot.

A Victory Dance will be held Saturday night at Balboa Park Club 8:00 to 11:30 P.M.  This dance is open to the public and there will be plenty of dancing partners for service personnel from hostesses of all USO clubs.  USO Sunday will be observed in the churches of all faiths with recognition given from the pulpit. Members of the congregation are urged to invite the worshipping service personnel into their homes.

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Interfaith Program Sponsored by Birdie Stodel
Southwestern Jewish Press, November 25, 1955, Page 4

An Oneg Shabbat sponsored by the Birdie Stodel Chapter of B’nai B’rith Women for the entire community is being held on Saturday, December 3rd, at 1:30 p.m. at the Alice Birney School, 4295 Campus Avenue.

An original script “Unto This Day” will be narrated by Mrs. Martin Borenstein, President, and Mrs. Edward Roodberg, Anti-Defamation League, B.B. Women, District No. 4.  The script depicts the life of the Jews in America and dolls dressed in costumes of the time of various events will be used to demonstrate 300 years of Jewry in America. Tables will be set up illustrating the Sabbath and Holy Days and traditional delicacies for each will be served.

Chairmen for the afternoon are Mrs. George Starr and Mrs. Irving Dean, Decorations, Mrs. Scott Chadwick, and refreshments, Mrs Jeremiah Aronoff.

If you are planning to attend please call Mrs. Bill Fox, AC 2-2112.

Every Sunday at 1:00 p.m., B’nai B’rith Women are on Station KOWL-1530 on your dial, with 15 minutes of news on Israel, the national and local scenes.

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Golden Age Club Off to Good Start

Southwestern Jewish Press, November 25, 1955, Page 4

The Jewish Community Center experiment with its club for senior citizens began last week with the joint participation of the Naitonal Council of Jewish Women, a group that is active on the nation scene in this work.  “Fifty senior citizens made known their desire by meeting at the Center, Sunday, November 13, to form the Golden Age Club. This enthusiastic response foretells the success of the Center’s newest club,” according to Henry Price, Center board member, who welcomed the group.

Year round activities for the club are planned to include forums, lectures, sings, story-reading, adult games, informal gatherings, and any other type of program desired by the members.

Meetings will be held at the Center at least every other Sunday with possible middle-of-the-week activities at the Home.

Members of the Council of Jewish Women who served as hostesses were Mesdames Fitz Lavender, Joseph Feldman, Robert Imberman, Harold Garvin, Leo Dietrich and Irvin Kravitz.

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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