Attention Family Historians: If you would like a JPG photo copy from the Southwestern Jewish Press of any “Adventures in San Diego Jewish History” article that has been reprinted on the San Diego Jewish World website, simply copy the website address of the article, and send it along with the article’s headline, with a $5 payment per article, to Family History Editor, San Diego Jewish World, PO Box 19363, San Diego, CA 92159. Or go to the Pay Pal Form associated with the Article Index for Family Historians and paste the citation of each article you want photographed.
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Special Preview of New Center Bldg. Set for Jan 5
Southwestern Jewish Press, December 27, 1957, Pages 1, 3
A “Come and See” guided tour of the new Jewish Community Center building being completed on 54th Street and University Avenue will take place on Sunday, January 5, from 10 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
According to an announcement by William B. Schwartz, Center President, a “Special Preview” is planned for the entire community. “The occasion marks a splendid opportunity for families and individuals to personally visit the building in advance of the official opening planned for April 1,” Schwartz stated.
“On December 17th, we had a very successful luncheon and tour for members of the press, radio and television,” Schwartz reported. The Jewish community development, including the Hebrew Home for the Aged and the new Center, produced a favorable impression among the men and women who were present. “The comments about the buildings, program and objectives were enthusiastic,” said Mr. Schwartz, “and it is a deserving credit to our Jewish community in making this important contribution to San Diego.”
“The open house program will enable the Jewish community and others to get a first-hand look at the kind of excellent facilities that are being created for people of all ages and from all walks of life in our community,” added Seymour Rabin, general chairman of the “Building Completion Fund” campaign. The campaign will begin after January 1 to raise a minimum of $150,000 in cash to furnish and equip the building and area in time for the opening.
“There will be no solicitation of funds at the ‘Special Preview,’ Rabin reported, “the open house is for one main purpose, and that is for the community to acquaint themselves with this magnificent structure that is the realization of a 12-year dream.
Memberships at $48 a year per family will be available at the “Special Preview.” Because of current planning and administration, only 750 memberships will be available for the first six months. An opportunity to become “charter” members will be made available at the new Center on January 5.
Harry Sugarman, an outstanding leader of the Jewish Community, in accepting the chairmanship of the “Large Gifts” division of the “Completion Fund” drive, stated, “I feel confident that every person who sees this inspiriting structure, dedicated to the principles of American democracy and Judaism, will be equally as proud as we are of this Living Accomplishment. The building, even in its present stages of construction, is a growing wonder. I feel certain that our division will raise at least $100,000 of the $150,000 needed to complete our Jewish Community Center.”
Members of the “Guide Committee,” who will be present at the site, will lead tours for all the visitors. safety precautions are being provided for the comforts and safety of each guest throughout the day.
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Help Wanted By Heart Association
Southwestern Jewish Press, December 27, 1957, Page 1
The San Diego County Heart Association needs help.
Douglas Owens, 1958 Heart Fund chairman, said volunteers are urgently needed January 6, 7 and 8th at the Indoor Sports Club, 3030 Front street, to stuff Heart literature and Heart Valentine seals into envelopes.
“Anyone who can spare even an hour a day will be sincerely welcomed,” Owens said. Work at the Indoor Sports Club will start at 9 a.m. daily, January 6, 7, and 8th.
The 1958 Heart Fund Drive is scheduled for the month of February, with “Heart Sunday” on February 23.
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United Jewish Fund Distributes $200,000
Southwestern Jewish Press, December 27, 1957, Pages 1, 3
A check for $171,000 was presented to the United Jewish Appeal’s representative, Lou Mones, as San Diego’s commitment from the 1957 campaign at the Fund’s 24th Annual Meeting, recently held. Other organizations that participated in the ceremonies which symbolized the work of the United Jewish Fund were the City of Hope, which received $12,500 for its Building Fund and $8u00 for its yearly operation; the Jewish Committee for Personal Service, $750; Histadrut campaign, $5,400; Brandeis Youth Foundation, $400; National Jewish Welfare Board, $2,500, and the Joint Defense Appeal, $3,100.
San Diego’s United Jewish Fund was presented with a special United Jewish Appeal national award as one of the 33 communities in America whose 1957 campaign topped all previous records, according to word received by Milton Y. Roberts, Fund President.
The presentation was made by Dr. A.P. Nasatir, San Diego’s delegate to the national meeting held last Sunday at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York, where 1,300 delegates gathered.

At the same time the 24th Annual Meeting of the United Jewish Fund announced the raising of over $292,000 in the 1957 campaign, homage was paid to Dr. Walter Ornstein and Victor Schulman for their leadership in this drive at the dinner meeting at which over 185 Fund members were in attendance.
Richard A. Nelson, Chairman of the Christian Division, received a “citation of merit” from the United Jewish Appeal and an engraved plaque from the local United Jewish Fund for “his service to humanity regardless of race or creed.” In his response, Mr. Nelson stated that this was true “brotherhood in action” and that it was his privilege to have served in this capacity.
Schulman and Ornstein announced that continued efforts would be made during the balance of the year to secure the additional $3,000 to reach the goal of $295,000 in this year’s campaign.

Nasatir reported that the delegates to the United Jewish Appeal National Conference voted for a special “Rescue Fund” of $100,000,000 to be raised over and above proceeds from the United Jewish Appeal’s Regular 1958 Campaign. “The two-fold drive,” he said, “must meet the urgent migration, welfare and rehabilitation needs of 615,000 men and women and children during the coming year.”
This will be the third year in which a special fund will be set up on a national level by the United Jewish Appeal. Milton Y. Roberts, President of the Fund, stated that the Directors had already voted to accept a Special Fund in 1958 if the United Jewish Appeal so desired.
The Rescue Fund decision was taken after the delegates heard reports which revealed that up to 80,000 Jews from Eastern European and Moslem countries will urgently need help next year to reach Israel and other countries in which they can make a fresh start.
Outstanding Israeli and American Jewish leaders spoke of Israel’s achievement and problems and the tasks for 1958. Among them were Moshe Sharett, former Prime Minister of Israel; Edward Warburg, United Jewish Appeal Honorary Chairman; Abba S. Eban, Israel Ambassador to the United States; and Dr. Nahum Goldmann, Chairman of the Jewish Agency for Palestine.
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Sr. Adults To Hold Art Exhibit Jan. 19
Southwestern Jewish Press, December 27, 1957, Page 1
Original paintings and ceramics by Senior adults will be shown on January 19, 1958, in the La Sala Raoom of the House of Hospitality in Balboa Park. Co-sponsored by the National Council of Jewish Women, the Jewish Community Center and the Hebrew Home and Auxiliary, the exhibit from 2 to 4 p.m., will be open to the public. There is no admission charge and refreshments will be served.
The art objects to be exhibited have been created during the past year by members of Senior Adult Classes under the direction of Mr. Stanley Levine. Mrs. Herbert Malley is in charge of the afternoon’s program. She is being assisted by Mrs. Lee Bartell and Mrs. Herbert Reder in her capacity of Chairman of the Senior Adult Committee of the Jewish Community Center.
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Servicemen Enjoy Chanukah Program
Southwestern Jewish Press, December 27, 1957, Page 1
Over 100 Servicemen and Junior and Senior Hostesses observed the Chanukah Candle Lighting Ceremony at Temple Beth Israel, Wednesday, December 18th.
The service was a feature of the evening’s program which included a dance and party sponsored by the Jewish Welfare Board Armed Services Committee of San Diego.
Participants in the candle lighting ceremony were: Chaplain Elihu Rickel, Assistant District Chaplain, 11th Naval District; Chaplain Barry H. Greene, Jewish Chaplain at Camp Pendleton; Cantor Julian Miller of Temple Beth Israel; Pfc. Erwin Dubinsky, AA Bernard Kaplan and Miss Sybil Fishman.
The servicemen each received a Chanukah gift and enjoyed the festive refreshments served by the following women from the Pioneer Women’s Organization: Mrs. Seymour Gates, Mrs. Lee Varon, Mrs. Rose Brooker and Mrs. Florence Lebb.
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Betrothal Told
Southwestern Jewish Press, December 27, 1957, Page 2
Mr. and Mrs. Philip Shames, of San Diego, announce the engagement of their son, Ira Allen, to Harriet Resnick, daughter of Mrs. Irving Resnick, of Los Angeles.
Mr. Shames was graduated from San Diego State College and is now attending Southwestern College, in Los Angeles. A June wedding is planned.
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Personals
Southwestern Jewish Press, December 27, 1957, Page 2
Sweet Sixteen — On Sunday, December 21, sixteen friends of Deanna Steckel gathered at the Mission Valley Country Club to commemorate her “sweet-sixteenth” birthday. A party was given in her honor by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Harold Steckel. The traditional birthday cake highlighted the dinner which was followed by an evening of dancing.
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Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Freedman and Mr. and Mrs. Mack Freedman left for Memphis, Tenn., where their niece will be married. They will also visit New York.
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Thanks — Mrs. Morris Kahn wishes to thank her many friends and the organizations for the thoughtfulness shown her during her recent hospitalization.
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Gussie Kraft wishes to thank her family and friends for their kindness and cards during here recent hospitalization.
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MR. and Mrs Niel Himmel recently spent two weeks in Palm Springs. Mrs. Himmel, who is convalescing after five months illness, wishes to thank her friends for their kindnesses shown during this period.
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On Saturday, December 21, Mr. and Mrs. David Garfield entertained in their new beautiful hilltop home at 1733 Colgate Circle in La Jolla. Two hundred and fifty guests attended a cocktail and buffet dinner party. Helping to greet the guests were their two daughters, Melissa and Beth; Mrs. Garfield’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Slate, and MR. Garfield’s mother, Mrs. Rae Garfield of Los Angeles.
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Council Women Go “Out of This World” For Fifth in Art of Living Series
Southwestern Jewish Press, December 27, 1957, Page 2
Out of this wide, wide world is the fifth program in the current Art of Living series sponsored by the National Council of Jewish Women, Tuesday, January 7, 11:45 a.m. at teh Lafayette Hotel, according to President Mrs. Irving Coleman.
Narrated by Chairman, Mrs. Harold Rothblatt, the three part program is to be presented in the format of the television show, Wide, Wide World.
“Politics and the Space Age” will be discussed by Dr. Sidney Warren. Professor of Political Science and History at California Western University, Dr. Warren will evaluate the political aspects of the conquest of space.
“Education for Space” will be the topic of a talk by Mr. Robert Heilbrom, Director of Secondary Education for the San Diego City Schools. Mr. Heilbrom is a specialist in the fields of mathematics and science, and he will explain the position to be maintained by our schools in preparing youngsters for the new emphasis on scientific careers.
Featured also is an exciting preview in fashion, according to Mrs. Rothblatt. “Out of This World Originals” chapeaux are to be shown by Council models, Mesdames Ben Kutschuk, Gerald Korbernick, Fred Marshall, Al Rosen, Burton Ross and Morris Sims, accompanied by Mrs. Aaron Vogel. Coordinating the showing is Mrs. Seymour Okmin and Mrs. Edwin Harrs is commentator. Stage sets and table decorations are designed by Mrs. Martin Green and Mesdames Chuck Harris, /ARthur Levy and Robert Zlotoff.
Assisting Mrs. Rothblatt on the program committee are: Mesdames Paul Moss, Murray Schneier, Andrew Segal, Lester Tokars. Mrs. Edward Merkin is Education Co-ordinator, and Mrs. Herbert Reder, Vice-President in charge.
Reservations may be made with Mrs. Lee Bartell, AC-2-5947.
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Temple Beth Israel Sisterhood Presents “Arts Contribution to Religion”, Jan 8.
Southwestern Jewish Press, December 27, 1957, Page 2
For the first luncheon meeting of the New Year on Wednesday, January 8, 1958, 11:45 a.m. at Temple Center, Temple Beth Israel Sisterhood will be honored by the presence of two recognized artis in their own field. Mrs. Vailia Dennis, program chairman has arranged to have Mr. Warren Beach, director of the Fine Arts Gallery of San Diego, speak on the topic, “Art’s Contribution to Religion.” Mr. Sol Rabino, Los Angeles artist, will appear on the program with Mr. Beach.
A complete showing of Mr. Rabino’s art works will be on display at this time. These works have been previously exhibited in leading galleries in the United States and abroad. The New York Times lauded him as a “great religious painter of modern times” when his works were on exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Fine Art.
President Mrs. Herbert Ebert, extends an invitation to the entire Jewish community to attend this memorable program.
Decorations, arranged by Mrs. Samuel Kerper, will consist of table centerpieces incorporating the lithographic arts of Mr. Rabino.
Mrs. Ernes Haas, Luncheon Chairman, will be assisted by Mmes. Paul Merkowitz, Edward Cherney, Robert Stone, Louis Bichman, and Al Solof.
Resolve to make your reservations now by calling Mrs. Stone — CY-5-8822 or Mrs. Louis Bichman — AT-2-2741.
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(Crooked Men)
Southwestern Jewish Press, December 27, 1957, Page 2
Some men are so crooked they can’t make both ends meet.
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Cradle
Southwestern Jewish Press, December 27, 1957, Page 2
A second son, Alan Michael, was born to Mr. and MRs. Manny Barney of Los Angeles, on November 25. Alan weighted 6 lbs and 9 3/4 ozs. He shares the nursery with big brother, Mark Herbert, who is 2 years old.
Maternal grandparents are Mr. and Mrs. Philip Shames, and paternal grandmother is MRs. Fannie Barney.
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Susan Lee is the new addition to the Melvin Hoffman home. Susan was born December 10 and weighed in at 6 lbs and 6 ozs. She joins her brothers, and sister, Steve, 8 years, Debbi, 6 years, and Terry, 4 years, in time for the Holidays.
Maternal grandparents are Mr. and Mrs. Albert Cohen, paternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Harry Hoffman, and great grandparents are Mr. and MRs. Morris Pearl, all of San Diego.
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Bar Mitzvahs
Southwestern Jewish Press, December 27, 1957, Page 2
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Zweig announce the Bar Mitzvah of their son, Gerald Morris, on Saturday, January 11, 9:30 a.m., at Tifereth Israel Synagogue.
A reception for 75 guests will be held at the Lafayette Hotel on Sunday, January 12, at 5:00 p.m.
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Mr. and Mrs. William Penn announce the Bar Mitzvah of their son, Stephen Lee, on Saturday morning January 4, 1958, 9 a.m., at the Beth Jacob Synagogue. Friends are invited to attend a reception following the services.
Out-of-town guests will be Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Saunders, Los Angeles, Calif; Dr. and Mr. Sidney Penn, and R. and Mrs. Samuel Penn, Long Beach, Calif.; Mr. and Mrs. Buddy Gallop, Wilmington, Calif.; grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Abe Goldsmith, Mattoon, Illinois; and aunts and uncles, Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert Shmikler, Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Tanner, and Mrs. Alice Shmikler, Champaign, Illinois.
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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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San Diego Jewish World seeks sponsorships to be placed, as this notice is, just below articles that appear on our site. This is an ideal opportunity for your corporate message or to personally remember a loved one’s contributions to our community. To inquire, call editor Donald H. Harrison at (619) 265-0808 or contact him via donald.harrison@sdjewishworld.com