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For All of Us
Southwestern Jewish Press, November 29, 1957, Page 3
“The evening of Sunday, December 8th is a momentous occasion to be shared by each one of us” is the final statement imprinted on the invitation for the 12th Annual Meeting and Dinner of the San Diego Jewish Community Center, and recently distributed to our community. On the surface the invitation may seem to be just another piece of printed matter normally arriving with our daily mail. However, closer inspection and attention ought to be given to the inner particulars of this seemingly ordinary piece of meal.
In 1945 a small group of men and women realized that San Diego needed a Center building for our youth and families and individuals. The Jewish Community Center was incorporated in the State of California in 1946. It later became a Youth Committee of the United Jewish Fund which felt that there was a need for leisure time, recreational and cultural activities for Jewish Youth in San Diego. In 1949 it developed its own Board of Directors. A Jewish Community Center program was established to serve the entire community, people of all ages, both sexes and from all walks of life. The Center pioneered day camping in the community and developed Camp Jaycee which is now in its 12th year of operation. It has also taken the leadership in cooperative nursery programs, and in developing a program for senior citizens; as well as programs for teens and other age groups.
On April 1, 1958, when the doors of the $600,000 Center building officially open to our entire community, we will see a living expression of a vital advance in the annals of our community–a Dream Come True–a meaningful contribution to all of San Diego, and a tribute to you who have made the San Diego Jewish Community Center possible.
Carved out of the rolling land at 54th Street and University Avenue, a dynamic transformation has taken place. Over the span of years, dedicated individuals have expended much time and energy for you and yours. Drive to the site and look around at the buildings and the area. Look at it as a permanent memento dedicated to American democracy and Judaism. It was planned and created for each of us.
The evening of Sunday, December 8th is a momentous occasion to be shared by each one of us. It ought not be just another Dinner Meeting attended by Center members and their friends.
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“What’s Your Religion?”
Southwestern Jewish Press, November 29, 1957, Page 3
Sometime during the year 1960, a man may come to your door and ask, “What is your religion?” You may consider the question a harsh violation of your privacy and your religious freedom. But don’t blame the man. He’ll just be doing his job–as an employee of the U.S. Bureau of the Census, for right now, it looks as though the next decennial census will include a question about your personal religious belief.
The fact that the Bureau of the Census is seriously considering including the question became public recently. In November, 1956, the Bureau made a test survey in a four-county area in Wisconsin of all the religions to be asked in 1960. Included was “What is your religion?” The census taker was instructed to break down the answers into five categories: Catholic, Jewish, Protestant, “all others” and “none.” Protestants were also asked to state their denomination.
After the test, the Bureau said that it was “encouraged” by the results. It found that of 431 persons interviewed, only three refused to answer and “only a few” protested.
The Bureau’s disclosure has prompted much controversy and many more protests. These protests are having their effect. The Bureau is now reviewing the arguments pro and con before making a decision. A final determination may rest with the Secretary of Commerce or even with the courts. There are those who seriously believe in the value of the question on religion; among them are some religious leaders and social researchers.
Under the federal laws governing the decennial census, a person who refuses to answer questions or replies falsely is subject to fine or imprisonment. The statute does say that there is no offense if a person refused to give such information on the grounds that it is prohibited by his religious doctrine or teaching. But religious grounds alone will not constitute the major reason for refusal to answer the question. It most cases it will be based on moral and constitutional grounds; in these cases, there is no exemption from offense and possible punishment.
The fact that the census enumerator is bound by law to confidence does not alter the basic objection– a compulsory statement of faith involves interference with religious freedom. When people are compelled to state their faith–or their lack of it — they are to some extent, subjected to pressure for religious conformity. A minority group member in particular may be subject to a form of social embarrassment. The fact that answers are held in confidence does not answer these objection. Often the census taker is a neighbor of the respondent. Often the respondent will not know that the enumerator is bound by secrecy. But he will be aware of the fact that his religious belief is now the object for scrutiny by his federal government, and perhaps his local community as well.
Privacy of religion is the core of the matter in protecting religious freedom. Privacy in the other matters–age, income and the rest–does not involve any of the basic freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution. Morally and traditionally, in the United States, a man’s relations with his deity are intimate and personal ones.
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New Books
Southwestern Jewish Press, November 29, 1957, Page 3
The Living Talmud: The Wisdom of the Forefathers by Judah Goldin, A Mentor Classic.
Reviewed by A.P. Nasatir.
For fifty cents once can buy a paper bound edition on the living Talmud which will return a treasure of wealth to the purchaser. The author of this fine booklet, Judah Goldin, Dean and Associate Professor of Agada at the Seminary College, the Jewish Theological Seminary of America, takes his readers thru a rich and fascinating introduction. He discusses the language of the Talmud, he reads from the “Pirke Abot,” translated from the original Hebrew, and he gives the wise sayings and maxims of our great sages and scholars, all of which he prefaces with a brilliant essay in praise of wisdom and the meaning of the Talmud to the world. He ably presents the eternal practice of informed Jews — of making the ancient Wisdom of the Fathers a fresh testament for the Sons.
And what were some of the values and ideals of these teachers? They said: “Be deliberate in judgment, raise many disciples; one must worship God with no thought of rations in return; the poor ought always to find a welcome in one’s house; idle chatter with women should be avoided like the plague; one should judge every man as one would himself want to be judged, favorably; evil associations are fatal, there is always a final reckoning; scholars must weigh their words, love peace, love all men and draw them to the Torah; neglecting to study is deadly; if there is something to be done, now is the time to do it; what counts is deed and not speech…”
Of course, there is more, much more, to be learned, in this small excellent volume. There is Hillel who says: “Do not withdraw from the community; Say not: When I have leisure I will study–perchance thou shalt have no leisure!” There are the Sages who taught: “Man must be beloved on earth not because this love is very important as such. But when a man is beloved on earth, he will be Beloved on high, because thus the name of the Lord is sanctified.” … “Who is the mighty man?” “He that is slow to anger.” “Who is a rich man?” “He that is content with his portion.” “Who is the honorable man?” “He who honors mankind.” “Who is the wise man?” “He who is ready to learn even from his inferiors.” …
On the subject of giving charity, the Talmud says there are four types. He who wishes to give but that others should not give. That others should give, but not he. That he should give and others too (the Saint). That neither he nor others give (the Wicked).
But why go on? For when one enters the world of the Talmud and its teachings, one enters a sphere unlike any other. Not because nowhere else is there so serious a concern with law and basic human relationships, but because, taken crumb by crumb, the Talmudic writers were not writers of books, rather they were the world’s greatest teachers and sages, and what they teach is keen intellect re-acting to the good heart.
There is, I am told, this new man-made satellite circling the world with fantastic speed. Yet soon it will peter out and cease to circle the globe, but the living Talmud and its majestic content will keep circling thousands of years hence.
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Community Currents
Southwestern Jewish Press, November 29, 1957, Page 3
By Albert A. Hutler
National, CJFWF Conference
About 1,000 delegates from all over the country gathered in New Orleans to discuss common problems facing the American Jewish Community. It was the General Assembly of the Council of Jewish Federation and Welfare Funds. One of the major values of attendance at such meetings is the knowledge a delegate gets that all communities face similar problems.
The problem of Jews and segregation in the south was one of the most interesting sessions. Harry Golden of the Carolina Israelite discussed the challenge facing southern Jews on basis of morals, principles and ethics.
Another highlight was Dr. Stocker’s and Rabbi Herbert Friedman’s discussions of Israel’s needs. Immigration to Israel is expected to continue in 1958 at the rate of about 80,000. This means a special campaign again for the United Jewish Appeal.
The United Jewish Appeal raised $30,000, 000 in the 1957 Special Emergency Fund against a goal of $100,000,000. They’ll need $70,000,000 extra in 1958 because we missed by that amount in 1957.
Local needs including health and welfare agencies, centers and homes for aged, were discussed. All phases of Jewish communal life were brought into play at the conference.
And by the way, San Diego was the only West Coast community to win a national award at the conference.
Yo-Ma-Co’s Serve Center
On the local scene the Yo-Ma-Co Club has taken a lead in backing the new Center Building and its program. They’ve raised $3,000 to date for the building. It’s a leaf in community work that could be copied by several other organizations that say they have community responsibilities.
Guardians Toast Moorsteen
Lou Moorsteen, one of the really grand men of San Diego, was honored the other week by the Guardians of the Hebrew Home for the Aged. A past president and campaign chairman of the Fund, Lou and his fine wife Esther have been in the forefront of every worthy community effort. The Guardians paid homage to one who deserves the respect of the whole Jewish community.
Director for the Home?
The Hebrew Home is interviewing several applicants for the director’s job. The board hopes to have someone at the home by January 1.
Cele Feldman, president of the Home’s Auxiliary, instituted a visiting program for the residents of the Home. It’s a much needed program and Cele and the ladies of the auxiliary are doing a fine service.
J.S.S.A Widening Scope
The Jewish Social Service Agency continues to get busier as our city grows. Directors of the agency are now discussing assisting public welfare in locating Jewish foster homes for Jewish children who need help.
450,000 Jews in L.A.?
It was predicted that Los Angeles would soon be recognized as a major center of Jewish culture according to Dr. Jacob Marcus, director of the American Jewish Archives. Incidentally, the Jewish Welfare Fund believes that there are 450,000 Jews in Los Angeles.
Israel Helps U.S.
The U.S. Air Force signed a contract on nuclear studies with the Weitzmann Institute of Israel. The Institute will assign seven scientists.
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As the Psychologist Sees You
Southwestern Jewish Press, November 29, 1957, Page 3
Toys for Children
This is the season of the year when, regardless of religion, it is forms of articles suitable for children and in the foreground stand the toys. They fill the advertisements, the store windows, and the shelves, to the delight of the children and, in many instances, the parents themselves. The familiar picture of the parent playing with the electric trains while the youngster hovers in the background is all too true.
Toys for Children play an important part in the training of children. It has been said that in the earliest learning process, toys take the same part that books, pencils and paper do later in school. A child’s first toys are his own fingers, hands and feet and the learning process consists in looking at them, feeling them, and playing with them, yes even tasting them. At first it is a form of exploration. As growth proceeds, a child learns to use toys more skillfully. They become the means by which children develop physically, mentally and emotionally.
Just having toys is not enough. Children must have a place in which to play, without interfering with, or being interrupted by adults. They must have sufficient space of their own in which to store toys. They must have time in which to play with them and playmates of their own age to share them and to develop a sense of social “give and take.” Finally, they must have adults to help them when needed and who will support them in their choice of play. It is wise to rotate toys so that they do not become so familiar that they become “state.” Too many toys only confuse and excite a child. Some should be stored for “rainy days.”
The selection of toys is equally important. Toys should be selected for learning, for expression, for entertainment, and for physical development. They should be geared to the age of the child and not to the whim and fancy of the adult who purchases them. It is a great frustration to the father not to be able to purchase electric trains for the two year old, but the value would be far less for the child than for his impatient parent. The value in money to a child is far less than it is to an adult so do not feel that it need be an expensive toy.
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Carmen Amaya To Dance Here Friday
Southwestern Jewish Press, November 29, 1957, Page 4
Exciting Spanish, Gypsy and Flamenco dances fill the festive fare that fiery Carmen Amaya and her brilliant troupe of dancers, singers and musicians will provide for dance lovers in their sole San Diego performance in the Russ Auditorium on impresario Mary Bran’s concert series at 8:30 Friday night.
The dynamic Carmen will dance several of her amazing solos and lead her dazzingly costumed company in their whirlwind ensemble.
From the vivid opening traditional dances of Spain to the fast and furious closing “Cuadro Flamenco,” there is never a pause in the spectacular performance that includes today’s to Flamenco guitarist, Sabicas, and the notable pianist-composer, Alfred Speranza, together with Pepita Ortega, Goyo Reyes and the team of Guzman and Marin.,
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Al DeSure New Prexy of Guardians
Southwestern Jewish Press, November 29, 1957, Page 4
The Guardians of the Hebrew Home for the Aged elected and installed new officers for 1958, November 14th at the Mission Valley Country Club. Louis Steinman, 1st VP of the Guardians, installed the new Pres. Al DeSure. Other officers include Morrie Pomeranz, 1st V.P.; Lawrence Cantor, 2nd V.P.; Abraham Sklar, Treas.; and Leo Beck, Sec.
Highlighting the evening was a presentation of special honors and an inscribed plaque to Mr . Louis Moorsteen. Mr. Moorsteen, a past president of the United Jewish Fund and an outstanding civic worker, was paid special tribute by Mr. Murray Goodrich.
A gift was presented to thje retiring President Sam Addleson for his outstanding effort during his term of office. Arthur Glickman made the presentation on behalf of the Guardians.
Former Ambassador to Israel James McDonald spoke on behalf of the Bonds for Israel committee, which is presently conducting a drive.
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Temple Beth El
Southwestern Jewish Press, November 29, 1957, Page 4
Rabbi Monroe Levens of Tifereth Israel Synagogue will be the guest speaker at the December 12 meeting of Temple Beth El Sisterhood. The meeting will be at the Temple, 4257 Bannock St. at 8 o’clock in the evening. The theme of the Rabbi’s speech will be “Design for American Living.”
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Letters from Japan
Southwestern Jewish Press, November 29, 1957, Page 4
(By Ernest Michel)
TOKYO, Japan —A question I have been asked a number of times since returning from my trip is: Is there any anti-Semitism in the Orient? I believe I can best answer this question with the following story told me by Mr. Alex Triguboff, one of the leaders of the Jewish community in Japan.
During the early days of World War II, when the alliance between Germany and Japan was at its peak, a concentrated effort was made by members of the German consular staff to sell Japanese businessmen on the merits of anti-Semitism.
Anti-Jewish clubs were organized in most of the larger cities and businessmen invited to join. They were lectured by German government officials on the values of anti-Semitism and told to disassociate themselves from all the Jewish businessmen they dealt with.
On the day following the first meeting in Tokyo, one of the Japanese businessmen who had dealt with Mr. Triguboff came to him to tell him that he had been quite impressed with the lecture and from that date on, he was discontinuing doing business with Jews.
“They are only interested in making money,” he continued, and then told Mr. Triguboff he had gone over his books and decided on the following:
“From now on, I will only do business with you, Triguboff, with Cohen, Schwartz, and Rubenstein. No more dealings for me, with that fellow Berger. He only wants to make money.”
“But wait a minute,” Triguboff answered. “Do you know that I am Jewish and that Cohen, Schwartz, and Rubenstein are also Jewish. And Berger, the one you refuse to do business with, is a non-Jew, a German?”
The Japanese looked at him in disbelief. “You are Jewish? But I have done business ith you for such a long time. And you are certainly not the kind of a person the German told us you are! There must be something wrong somewhere.”
That was the end of the anti-Semitic venture of the Japanese businessman.
The next meeting of the anti-Semitic group was only sparsely attended, and after the third meeting the effort was discontinued.
That was the short-lived era of anti-Semitism in Japan, and should, I believe, answer the question of whether or not it exists in Japan.
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Bay City News
Southwestern Jewish Press, November 29, 1957, Page 4
At the next meeting Monday, December 8, 8:15 p.m., Tifereth Israel Center, there will be as guest speaker for the evening, MR. Donald E. Walker who is Dean of Counseling and Testing at San Diego State College. His topic will be “Your Emotions and Your Health.”
Mr. Walker’s special research interest in the field of Psychosomatics has been in the area of Emotional Factors in Cancer.
In celebration of Chanukah this will be a social meeting. Mrs. Ann Block and other superb cooks are planning a latke party, with many surprises. Please bring a gift, not to exceed 50c, for the grab bag. Mrs. Eugene Sacks, President, invites members and guests to attend.
Jean Finkelman, Veteran’s Chairman and her committee, will serve breakfast December 1, at the Naval Training Station.
Estyr Cahan, BBG Advisor, and Natalie Meyers, P.P. and BBYO Co-ordinator, announce that the BB Girls are having a dinner Installation Dec. 2, 6 p.m., in the Terrace Room, Lafayette Hotel. The girls would like members and friends to attend.
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Sisterhood Meeting To Feature Chanukah Party
Southwestern Jewish Press, November 29, 1957, Page 4
“Lights and Latkes” is the theme of the Chanukah party that Temple Beth Israel Sisterhood is holding in conjunction with the regular meeting scheduled for Dec. 11th at 11:45 a.m. in Temple Center.
Sam Grossman, well-known T.V. announcer, will preside as Master of Ceremonies, during the fun-filled hour devoted to a Stop-and-Chat program where participants will receive one of a number of exciting prizes. Awaiting the eldest Grandmother and the newest Bride is a surprise gift. Music in the Chanukah spirit will be under the direction of Cantor Julian Miller. An artistic exhibit of easy-to-make Chanukah decorations will be on display.
Menorahs will predominate in the decor arranged by chairman, Mrs. Samuel Kerper. Co-ordinating the program are Mrs. Vailia Dennis and Mrs. Morton J. Cohn, co-chairmen. Traditional food will be served under the direction of Mrs. Ernest Haas, luncheon chairman, assisted by Mrs. Marin Ernest, co-chairman. Reservations may be made by phoning the luncheon Captains Mmes. Edward Cherney, JU-2-1924; Sam Ackerman, HO-3-1296; Paul Merkowitz, CY-6-1368; or telephone chairman, Mrs. Norman Smith, BR-7-2960.
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Temple Youth
Southwestern Jewish Press, November 29, 1957, Page 4
Temple Youth League is having a wonderful winter conclave which will be held from December 26 through 29. Our theme is Getting to Know Us thru Religion, Education, Community Living, and Social Justice. Camp Cuyamaca is the location. Conclave faculty will include Rabbis, youth advisors, parents and a doctor., Transportation to and from camp and other extras (such as food, a necessity) are included in the $15.00.
The program will be packed full of fun.
For further information call Frankee Hutler conclave chairman, AC-3-8223.
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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.
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