Adventures in San Diego Jewish History, February 17, 1956, Part 1

Compiled by San Diego Jewish World staff

Schwartz-Sugarman Take Lead Posts in Fund Drive
Southwestern Jewish Press, February 17, 1956, Pages 1, 4

William B. Schwartz

Two leaders of the San Diego Jewish community have accepted posts of responsibility in the 1956 United Jewish Fund Campaign. Harry Sugarman has been named Pace-Setters chairman and William B. Schwartz has been named Campaign Leadership Division chairman, as announced by Milton Roberts, general chairman of the campaign.

Mr. Sugarman, prominent investment broker, is a board member of Sharp Memorial Hospital and the Jewish Community Center. He is a member of the executive committee of the United Jewish Fund and has been chairman of several important Fund activities.

Mr. Schwartz, also a member of the executive committee of the Fund, has been area business district chairman for many campaigns, is vice president of the Jewish Community Center, and a member of the Community Relatins Council.

The Pace Setter Divisions will include the field of all gifts amounting to $250 and over.

Sugarman said, “This year’s campaign must be inspired by unprecedented generosity of the whole Jewish community. At this time of crisis in Israel our giving must be a ‘pace setter’ to better the goals of the past. We will not fail our brethren.”

The campaign this year will be two-fold in nature, with two goals instead of the traditional one. Besides the regular local campaign which cares for the normal needs of 55 overseas, national and local agencies and organizations, the community has pledged to raise $51,600 as a special fund for the United Jewish Appeal to be used exclusively in financing emergency resettlement in Israel of 50,000 Jews from turbulent North Africa, 45, 000 from Morocco, and 5,000 from Tunisia.

A joint statement issued by Roberts, Sugarman and Schwartz declared, “In the worst crisis that has faced Israel since 1948 only we are in a position to accept the financial responsibility of moving terror stricken North African Jews to Israel. For this reason the Special Fund has been designated as a “plus” fund. Contributions to the Special Fund will be made and accepted only over and above a regular contribution to the United Jewish Fund campaign.

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Jewish War Vets Color Guard Honored
Southwestern Jewish Press, February 17, 1956, Page 1

The Jewish War Veterans, San Diego Post 185 Color Guard led by Commander Ben Snyder, Past Commander Harry Aronoff and Senior Vice Commander Le Roy Seckler were honored by being chosen to lead the colors in the National City March of Dimes Parade on Sunday, January 29.

The Blue and Gold Mogen Dovid emblem of the Jewish War Veterans flying side by side with the Stars and Stripes was greeted by enthusiastic rounds of applause as it moved along the two mile parade route in the vanguard of a score of veteran organizations

On Sunday, January 22, Post 185 joined with the Jewish Welfare Board in one of the largest Lox and Bagel Breakfasts held in some time at the Naval Training Station. Comrade Abe Friedman, director of the Jewish Welfare Board, conducted religious services for more than 90 “boots.” Comrade Friedman gave an interesting talk on the history of the J.W.V. and invited the youngsters to participate in local activity. The Lox and Bagel refreshments followed and were devoured in short order.

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J.W.V. Head Visits
Southwestern Jewish Press, February 17, 1956, Page 1

On February 18th, Mrs. Fannie Bramnick, President of the Nat’l Ladies Auxiliary Jewish War Veterans of the U.S., paid an official visit to the Ladies Auxiliary of S.D. Post No. 185.

Mrs. Bramnick delivered her message at a hotel dinner, at which Chaplain and Mrs. Rickel were special guests.

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Jewish Social Agency Elects New Officers
Southwestern Jewish Press, February 17, 1956, Page 1

Dr. Walter Ornstein this week was reelected president of the San Diego Jewish Social Services Agency. Other officers elected included: Irving Stone and Mrs. Milton Roberts, vice presidents; Mrs. Jack Rittoff, secretary, and William Colt, treasurer.

Elected to the board of directors were Mrs. Morey Levenson, Dr. Gerald Kobernick, Joseph Schwartz, Zel Camiel, Mrs. Esther Kupferberg, MRs. Joseph Kwint, Dr. Walter Ornstein, Mrs. Ann Pecharsky, Mrs. Jack Rittoff, Mrs. Milton Roberts, and Mrs. Elmer Wohl.

Members of the board serving unexpired terms are Mrs. A.J. Bard, William Colt, Carl Friend, Edward Janowsky, Dr. Seymour Kuntz, Harry Mallen, Dr. Harry Ruja, Mrs. Leo Sarfan, Irving Stone, and David Zwanziger.

The Jewish Social service Agency is a member agency of the Community Chest and the San Diego Federation of Jewish Agences.
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Entire Community Invited To Center Dinner Meeting
Southwestern Jewish Press, February 17, 1956, Page 1

Over 300 people are expected to attend the 109th annual dinner meeting Sunday of the Jewish Community Center, at 6:45 p.m. in Temple Beth Israel Center, Maxwell Kaufman and Maury Novak, co-chairmen, said this week.

The theme of the the meeting “And Now We Build” will be presented in the form of a musical dramatization written by Herbert Reder and directed by Mrs. Edwin Merkin.

Taking part in the dramatization are Edward Breitbard, Sidney Rose, Rodin Horrow, Mack Esterson, John Ruskin, and Irving Mortin. The Center teenage group and its Golden Age Club will provide the musical accompaniment and ballet.

The decorative motif for the evening will take its lead from the theme. The backdrop for the stage will be a facsimile of an architect’s office and table decorations are planned in keeping with the program.

Edward Breitbard, president of the Center, said, “The dreams and hopes of the past ten years for our own adequate community center have reached their culmination in the simple words, “And Now We Build.” With the groundbreaking on June 10 for our Community Center building we will see the results of the entire community working to serve the entire community.”

Mrs. Victor Selten, chairman of the Women’s League of the Center, is in charge of arrangements. Assisting her are Mmes Milton Schwartz, Melvin J. Hoffman, and Milton Fredman.

Dinner reservations may be made by calling the Center, AT 1-7744.

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B.B’s Sponsor “Night in Israel”
Southwestern Jewish Press, February 17, 1956, Page 1

Jan Bart

Jan Bart, T.V. and radio comedian and singer, headlines the “Night in Israel” show, sponsored by all the B’nai B’rith Lodges in San Diego, on Weds. February 29, at the Beth Jacob Center.

The evening will be on behalf of the Israel Bonds Campaign. Admission is free.

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Please Note
Southwestern Jewish Press, February 17, 1956, Page 1

Morris W. Douglas, president, and Dr. A.P. Nasatir, San Diego Federation of Jewish Agencies president, made this joint statement this week:

“We appeal to san Diego Jewish organizations to arrange their activities during March, April and May to give priority to the United Jewish Fund Campaign activities.

“By avoiding any major functions during these months the United Jewish Fund will be aided immeasurably in meeting its responsibilities.”

If in doubt as to which activities during March, April and May may conflict with the campaign, please call the United Jewish Fund office, BE 2-5172.

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To Lead Women In U.J.F. Campaign
Southwestern Jewish Press, February 17, 1956, Page 1

Mrs. Milton Roberts

Mrs. Milton Roberts has been named Chairman of the Women’s Division of the San Diego 1956 United Jewish Fund Campaign.

Mrs. Roberts , one of the communities (sic, community’s) most active young leaders, was co-chairman with Mrs. Gabriel Berg of last year’s Women’s Division campaign; is past president of the San Diego section of the National Council of Jewish Women; vice-president of the Jewish Social Service Agency, and a board member of the Urban League.

In a statement, Mrs. Roberts said, “I know that San Diego Jewish women will stand shoulder to shoulder in their drive to meet the compelling needs of this year’s campaign. We rewcognize that the women’s Plus Giving can determine the kind of tomorrow there will be for nearly a half million Jewish men, women and children in North Africa, Europe and Israel.

Mrs. Roberts stated that her campaign cabinet and names of additional chairmen of the Women’s Division will be announced soon.

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Feb Designated As Collection Month
Southwestern Jewish Press, February 17, 1956, Page 1

The United Jewish Fund Collection month committee of David Stotsky, William Colt and Max Rabinowitz are making a concerted effort to bring in as much money as possible in outstanding pledges so that a large sum of cash can be forwarded to the United Jewish Appeal in N.Y.

Douglas said, “Unpaid pledges do not feed and clothe the children of Israel and North Africa.”

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U.S.O. Appoints Local Leader
Southwestern Jewish Press, February 17, 1956, Page 1

Milton Fredman, Vice Chairman of the 6th Army Area of the National Jewish Welfare Board, has been appointed to the newly created National Council of USO by Harvey Firestone, Jr., President of USO.

Fredman is the first representative from the city of San Diego of the USO National Council. It is expected that others will be forthcoming in the future.

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City of Hope Aux. Installs Officers
Southwestern Jewish Press, February 17, 1956, Page 2

Mr. Norman Gross of Los Angeles will be the Installing Officer at the 28th Installation of City of Hope Auxiliary Officers on Tuesday, February 21st at the Beth Jacob Center. Cantor Dubner will give several musical selections. Mrs. Jennie Siner is chairman of the day, assisted by Mrs. Anna Lazarowitz, Luncheon Chairman, and Mrs. Becky Bard who are taking reservations for the luncheon to be served at 12 noon.

Officers to be installed are: Hon. Pres., Anna Brooks; President, Ethel Berwin; Vice Presidents, 1st thru 5th respectively, Goldie Schusterman, Esther Schwartz, Helen Medak, Fanny Addleson, Marie Richards; Treasurer, Marian Resnick; Fin. Sec, Rose Barr; Rec. Sec., Gladys Tappan; Social Sec., Bertha Friedman; Councilor, Jennie Siner, Bessye Siegel, Marshal; Publicity, Jeanne Camiel, Public Relations, Anna Brooks.

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Friedman Named To Drive Committee
Southwestern Jewish Press, February 17, 1956, Page 2

Mr. L.L. Colbert, President of Chrysler Corp., and Chairman of the fund raising committee of the Naitonal Conference of Christians and Jews, has appointed Mr. Irving E. Friedman, local chairman of the special gifts drive to raise funds.

During Brotherhood Week, in February, Mr. Friedman is accepting donations to the dirve. He can be reached at the Pacifc Insurance Agency, S.D. Trust & Savings Bldg., BE 3-5193.

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B’nai B’rith Girls
Southwestern Jewish Press, February 17, 1956, Page 2

The B’nai B’rith Girls are having their installation on February 21, a 6:30 p.m. at an uptown hotel. The installing officer will be Ruth Aronoff.

Reservations must be in February 18. Phone Marilyn Aved at AT 4-8208 today.

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Pioneer Women Sponsor Annual Ball for ‘Queen Esther’ Feb. 25th
Southwestern Jewish Press, February 17, 1956, Page 2

In celebration of the Festival of Purim, the Pioneer Women will hold their annual Purim Ball on the eve of the holiday, Saturday, Feb. 25th at 8 p.m., at the Beth Jacob Center.

The Purim Ball, an annual event in San eigo, will present dancing from 8:30 p.m. with a home-cooked dinner available from 7 until closing. The highlight of the evening will be the crowning of the Queen, chosen by popular ballot from among the following locally-sponsored contestants; Frances Gibson, Tifereth Israel sisterhood; Susan Hutler, New Life Club; Ethyl Shapoff, B’na B’rith Birdie Stodel; Sara Trombka and Freda Zyman, Hatkiva Club Tijuana, and Sonia Weitzman,  Beth Jacob. Chairman for the ball include Mmes. Herbert Robbins and Rose Brooker, general arrangements; Louis Fromer and Chas Press, decorations; Bob Gaberman and Goldie Kitaen, food; Philip Abrams and Oscar Rothstein, tickets; Isaac Domnitz, prizes; Meyer Berner and Seymour Gates, publicity.

Special rates for students are in effect and all servicemen will be admitted free of charge.

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Bay City B.B. Plan Social Evening
Southwestern Jewish Press, February 17, 1956, Page 2

The San Deigo Bay City B’nai B’rth Women plan a festive social evening on Monday, February 27th, at Tifereth Israel Center. Mrs. Max Felsman, President, extends a hearty invitation to all members and friends to come join the fun.

Mrs. Sydney Cornell and Mrs. David Sugarman have planned unusual entertainment. The evening’s activities will be climaxed by a “Break the Bank” rally. Mrs. Maurice Krasnow, Chairman, announced prizes will be given for the largest contribution.

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Purim Dinner At Beth Jacob
Southwestern Jewish Press, February 17, 1956, Page 2

The Congregation of Beth Jacob will sponsor a Purim Dinner under the auspices of the Ladies Auxiliary on Thursday, Feb 13, at 6:30 p.m.

A delicious full course dinner will be served. Call aT 4-9523 for reservations.

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Ampex Shows New Tape Phonograph
Southwestern Jewish Press, February 17, 1956, Page 2

Recorded music competed on equal terms with live music Monday (Feb. 13) for the first time anywhere at a reception at the El Cortez Hotel.

In a demonstration of AMPEX stereophonic tape phonograph, sponsored by the Audio Equipment Company of San Diego, the audience found the music of a nine piece ensemble indistinguishable from a tape recording of the ensemble playing the same selection.

The test was made by synchronizing the recording with the ensemble, One by one the musicians put down their instruments and left the stand while the music continued—without difference in quality. Listeners found it impossible to detect a change in the quality of the music when the musicians stopped playing. To complete the demonstration, the ensemble returned to its instruments and completed the selection, again without missing a note or altering the quality of the music.

The AMPEX tape phonograph consists of three pieces –two speakers and a reproducer. The reproducer plays binaural tape or tape with two sound tracks, amplifying one track through each of the speakers. The effect is identical to the human hearing system.

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Rift
Southwestern Jewish Press, February 17, 1956, Page 2

A TV set figured prominently in a recent West Coast divorce case. The wife, who began the suit, complained the husband paid more attention to the set than he paid to her. She won, and the husband is said to be inconsolable – she got the TV.
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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