Rabbi Morton
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About Rabbi Morton J. Cohn
-1946-
November 7, 1946—1) "Ideal Adams Weds
David Stotsky," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 4: On Sunday,
November 3rd, 1946, in the don Room of the El Cortez Hotel, Miss Ideal Adams,
daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Louis Adams, 6084 Adelaide Avenue, was united in
marriage with David Stotsky, son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles L. Stotsky, 2490
Presidio Avenue. Rabbi Morton J. Cohn performed the ceremony at 2 p.m. in the
presence of the immediate family and a few close friends...
2) "Happy Old Timers," Southwestern Jewish
Press, page 6: The monthly birthday luncheon held by the Happy Old Timers on
Wednesday, October 30th, at the Home, 2750 Fourth avenue, was one of the largest
affairs this group has given. More than 70 guests came to help celebrate the
birthdays of the guests of the Home as well as to do honor to Mrs. Fried's
mother, Mrs. Katie Oliner of Salt Lake City. Mrs. Fried sponsored this luncheon
in honor of her Mother's 88th birthday. Much thanks is due Mrs. Elizabeth
Learner for cooking such a superb luncheon and to Mrs. Mary Greenberg and Mrs.
Rosaliee Sonnabaum and their helpers for the serving. Rabbi Morton J. Cohn as
guest speaker, praised San Diego Jewry for seeing the need for a Home for the
Aged and congratulated the committee for having this type of affair each month
for the guests of the home. Mr. Maxwell Kaufman spoke
briefly on future plans for a Jewish Old Age Center and for seeing the need for
larger quarters and thanked the community for providing such quarters for people
in the Autumn of their Lives.
December 12, 1946—"Council of Jewish Women," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 5: San Diego Council of Jewish Women will hold their
monthly meeting Thursday, December 19, at 2:00 p.m. at Temple Center, 3rd and
Laurel Sts...Rabbi Morton J. Cohn will be the guest speaker, and Mrs. Etta
Samuels will give a brief resume on the convention of the Southern District
Federation of Women's Clubs, which was held in Riverside on November 21st...
-1947-
January 16, 1947—1) "J.C.S.C.,"
Southwestern Jewish Press, page 2: A large audience witnessed the
installation of new officers of the Jewish Community Social Club at the last
meeting held January 9th...Among the activities being planned are a skating
party, bowling tournament, picnic, talk by Rabbi Cohn of Temple Beth Israel, an
annual dance at El Cortez Hotel, book review, reading of a play, and any other
activity the members should desire...
2) "Finkel-Reisman Wedding Sunday," Southwestern Jewish Press, page
3: Miss Rosalie Finkel, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Finkel will become the
bride of Harold Reisman, son of Mr. and Mrs. Julius Reisman of 4636 Soria Drive
in San Diego, at 2:30 p.m., Sunday, January 19th, 1947, at the Temple Beth
Israel. Rabbi Morton J. Cohn will perform the ceremony...
March 6, 1947—1) "Jacob H. Gruenberg Passes Away," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 4: Mr. Jacob H. Gruenberg, 64, who resided at 4653 49th
Street, died Tuesday, February 21, 1947. Mr. Gruenberg, who lived in San Diego
for the past 18 years was a member of the Scottish Rite Bodies, Minnehaha Lodge,
F. & A..M. and the Zurah Shrine Temple, all of Mineapolis. Services
were held at the Johnson-Saum Mortuary with Rabbi Morton J. Cohn and the Masonic
Fraternity officiating. Interment was at the Home of Peace Cemetery. Mr.
Gruenberg's survivors are his wife, Susan, a daughter, Shirley Alweis of
Billings, Montana, a son, Howard, of New Orleans, and another son, Neil of San
Diego. He also is survived by his sisters, Mrs. Lottie Steinberg and Mrs.
Antoinette Heller and a brother, Wm. L., all of Los Angeles.
2) "Josephine Naumann Passes Away," Southwestern Jewish Press, page
5: Mrs. Josephine Naumann, 83 years of age, passed away Wednesday evening,
February 26, 1947. Mrs. Naumann had been ill for the past two months. Rabbi
Moise Bergman and Rabbi Morton J. Cohn officiated at services which were
conducted Friday from Benbough's Mortuary with burial at the Home of Peace
Cemetery. Mrs. Naumann is survived her son, Ted Naumann of San Diego, and
a sister, Mrs. Wallerstein of St. Louis, Missouri.
3) "Yo-Ma-Co," Southwestern Jewish
Press, page 6: The next meeting of the Yo-Ma-Cos {Young Married Couples} on
Wednesday evening, March 12, at 9 p.m. should produce an excellent turnout of
members and friends, as Rabbi Morton J. Cohn will speak on a timely
subject. The culbu is planning a picnic this Sunday at El Monte Park,
March 9th, and the entire committee will contact members regarding preparations
for an enjoyable outing. Everyone is invited to attend both worthwhile affairs.
March 13, 1947
—1) "Form Community Relations Advisory Committee Here," Southwestern
Jewish Press, Page 3: Eli Levinsen has been named chairman of the Community
Relations Advisory Committee which was founded in San Diego recently.
Patterned after the National Community Relations Advisory Council, which is
comprised of six national organizations: Anti-Defamation League, Jewish War
Veterans of the U.S., American Jewish Committee, American Jewish Congress, Union
of American Hebrew Congregations and the Jewish Labor Committee, the local group
will represent all factions of the local community. Organized as a civic
protective body, the duties of the committee will include anti-defamation
work. Rabbi Morton J. Cohn, Dr. A.P. Nasatir, Al Hutler, Nathan F.
Baranov,
Irving E.Friedman, Louis Steinman, Ben Feinberg, Marshall Roth and Morry
Levensen will meet with Mr. Levensen twice a month at lunch to discuss their
work.
2) "Group Sponsors Amateur Boxing," Southwestern Jewish Press, page
5: Youth from all walks of life will have an opportunity to participate in
amateur boxing, as a result of the formation of the San Diego Amateur Boxing
Association this week. Fostered by Lou Mogy, Murray Goodrich, Max Rabinowitz,
Irving Kahn and Stirling Burnett, the non-profit, non-sectarian organization
will be patterned after the Big Brother League in other cities. Profits from
boxing will be channeled into complete athletic programs for boys throughout the
city...The new organization will be steered by a board of trustees composed of
representatives of city government, business and professional men, newspapermen
and religious leaders. Trustees headed by Honorable Harley E. Knox, Mayor of San
Diego, are: Clifford E. Peterson, chief of policy; George Courser, assistant
fire chief; Rev. Alec G. Nichols, Asbury Methodist Church; Rabbi Morton J.
Cohn, Temple Beth Israel; Father Wm. J. McDermott, St. Augustine School; S.M.
Sullivan, general passenger agent, Santa Fe Railway Co.; Tom Gwynne, Journal
sports editor; George Herrick, Tribune-Sun sports editor; Ken Bojens, Union
sports editor; Irving Kahn, Stirling Burnett, Max Rabinowitz, Murray Goodrich
and Lou Mogy.
March 20, 1947—Bobbie and Larry Solomon, "Copy Cats," Southwestern
Jewish Press, Page 7—..Manners of the Week —"It's only etiquette
for the Rabbi to be close to the temple youth," said Rabbi Cohn, as he
hugged Dee Wyner...
April 10, 1947—1) "Old Folks Celebrate Passover Seder in
'Home'," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 4: Places were laid for 45
guests at the first night Passover Seder at the San Diego Hebrew Home for the
Aged Friday night. Rabbi Bergman conducted the ritual with Joe Dembo and Sam
Schissell assistting, and members of their home and their families
participating.... Two hundred guests attended the seder at Temple Beth Israel. Rabbi
Morton J. Cohn conducted the traditional service with the participation of
Temple members, their guests and their children. Many of the young guests sat at
the head table with Rabbi and Mrs. {Sally} Cohn and assisted with the reading.
Frankee Dee Hutler, 4, found the "Aphekomin" (hidden matzo) for which
she was awarded a silver dollar by Rabbi Cohn. A number of servicemen were
guests of the Sisterhood...
2) "Eminent Speakers to Appear in San Diego This Week," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 5: David Coleman, president of the Fourth District of
B'nai B'rith, will make his official visit in San Diego next week. On Monday
evening, April 14, he will be the guest speaker at an open meeting of Lasker
Lodge B'nai B'rith, and before the meeting will be honored guest at a dinner at
the U.S. Grant. Mr. Coleman ... (at) present ... is serving as a member of
the board of the Federation of Jewish Welfare Organizations, the Los Angeles
Jewish Community Council, the Federated Jewish Employment Bureau, and the Jewish
Committee of Personal Service..... The San Diego Chapter of the Zionist
Organization of America and Hadassah, will present Rabbi Jerome Unger at an open
meeting on Tuesday,Apriil 15, at 8:00 p.m. at the Temple, Third and Laurel
Streets. Rabbi Morton J. Cohn will be chairman for the
evening. Al Slayen, president of the Zionist Organization, and Julia
Steinman, president of Hadasaah announced that there will be no solicitation of
funds. Rabbi Unger, Executive Director on the Committee on Unity for Palestine
of the Zionist Organization of Ameirca, served for eleven years as rabbi of
Vassar Temple in Poughkeepsie, N.Y....
3) "USO-JWB Activities," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 6: The
JWB Army and Navy Committee and Esther Siegel, JWB Director wish to thank the
San Diego community for their cooperation in providing Passover hospitality to
service men and their families. Many of the boys were invited to home seders
where they particularly enjoyed the home atmosphere. ..To Rabbi Morton J. Cohn,
Rabbi Ephraim Siegel, Rabbi Abraham Rosenblum {respectively of Temple Beth
Israel, Tifereth Israel Synagogue, and Beth Jacob Congregation} and to all who
helped to make the observance of the Passover holiday such a happy experience,
the Jewish Welfare Board is grateful. The regular night dance was well attended
by service men and Jr. Hostesses. Miss Ethel Parnass assisted in serving
Passover refreshments which consisted of lox, matzos and macaroons.
May 8, 1947—"Victor Schulman Heads Allocations,
Budget Committee," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 1: Eli Levenson,
president of the United Jewish Fund, announced the appointment of Victor
Schulman as chairman of the all important Allocations and Budget
Committee which will make recommendations for the distribution of money raised
in the 1947 United Jewish Campaign. For the first time in San Diego the
committee will consist of both board members and non-board members.
Appointed to serve with the chairman are: Sam Perlmutter, Abe Ratner, Abe
Snyder, Jack Dembo, I.L Domnitz, Abe Nasatir, Rabbi Morton Cohn, Max Rabinowitz,
Eve Chenkin, Leo Greenbaum, Frank Winicki, Gertrude Thaler, Sarah Goodrich,
Jennie Burnett, Bernice Soule, Julia Neumann, Julia Steiman, Louis Moorsteen,
Its Penter, Saul Schissell, Sandor Goldberger. Also, all members of the
Executive Committee will serve on the Allocations Committee. The Campaign
goes into its final two weeks with $182,966.50. Max Rabinowitz and Louis
Steinman, Chairman of the Campaign declared that there was still over $20,00.00
which had been contributed in 1946 and has not been received as yet in 1947. The
chairmen made an urgent appeal asking all who have not as yet contributed, not
to wait for the workers to see them but to send their contribution to the
office.
May 22, 1947—1) Ray Solomon, "That's What I Think," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 2: Sitting here as editor of the Jewish press with a more
or less "bird's eye" view of the community, it never ceased to be a
wonder to me how many dissenting voices there are on every action taken in the
community. Every speech, every move, everything and everybody has its two or
more camps. There are always those who take a negative and those who take a
rallying stand—though I'm afraid those who find fault are usually louder than
those who praise. The latest such dissention (and most surprising of all
to me), came to my attention this week, when I learned that criticism was aimed
at the Jewish "objectors" of the release time plan—and those others
who wrote letters and took an active part in the fight (which must also mean me)
wee unduly stirring up the muddy waters of anti-Semitism." First, I must
say that those who found such fault, could not have had much interest in the
issue, because if they had, they wouldhave attended the open meeting...and if
they had attended the meeting, they could not possibly have made such remarks.
Because I, and I am sure every open-minded person (Jewish or non-Jewish) that
was there, approved of every word that Rabbi Cohn said in opposition to
the plan. When Orton E. Darnall, president of the Board of Education asked that
someone be chosen from the opposition to represent them, it was a spontaneous
action on the part of one of the spectators, to call out the name of Rabbi Cohn.
Since no one else was called upon, and since Rabbi Cohn was well qualified from
the standpoint of information and representation, he rose and spoke briefly and
effectively on the evils of released time—to the complete satisfaction of the
more than one hundred non-Jewish opponents of the plan. As spiritual leader of
one of the church groups that took a stand against the plan—as a member of the
local Community Relations advisory Committee, that represents every walk of
Jewish life in San Diego—and as a private citizen who is well acquainted with
the problem and its implications-who was better qualified to speak than he? Secondly—in
answer to the statement that the plan would not have been accepted anyway—that
is not too likely, as told to me personally by one of the members of the Board,
who said, "last year when the plan was first introduced, I, and others on
the Board, were not particularly in favor of it, but you must realize that
public opinion must be the determining factor in our decision. I am glad to know
of your stand now. Contrary to the implication that the "released
plan" issue was a Jewish issue, let me point out that the number of Jewish
people attending the open meeting was perhaps less than ten percent, and the
number of letters, far less Jewish than Christian. The Jewish angle was brought
up, yes—but only by a bigoted few, who were answered immediately by many men
and women who were there—all of them not Jewish and saying so. Above
all, it is important to note that there were many liberal and progressive church
people, who did not approve of introducing religious segregation in the school and
were not ashamed to say so. {Background: Jewish Press Service,
"Synagogue Council Opposes 'Released time,'" Southwestern
Jewish Press, May 22, 1947, page 1: NEW YORK (JPS)—The National
Community Relations Advisory Council and the Synagogue Council of America, in a
joint statement last week, announced their objection to "released
time" and "dismissed time" or to "the utilization in any
manner, of the time and facilities, personnel, or funds of the public school
system for the purpose of religious instruction." The joint statement
is based on a resolution adopted by a conference of the NCRAC and the Synagogue
organizations as well as the major national and regional Jewish organizations
comprising the NCRAC.
2) "Temple Beth Israel," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 4:
Rabbi Morton J. Cohn of Temple Beth Israel announces that after services at
Temple this Friday evening, he will review the current best-seller,
"Thieves in the Night." Saturday morning, at 11 a.m.,, a Shevouth
service will be held at the Temple with the children taking part in the Jewish
service. The Rabbi will talk on "The Modern Meaning of Shevuoth,"
Shevuoth begins at sundown Saturday evening. Rabbi Cohn asks all Temple
members as well as guests to attend the Friday evening and Saturday morning
services.
May 29, 1947—1) "Solomon-Coleman To Exchange Vows," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 4: Sunday, June 1, 1947, Miss Theresa Coleman and Emanuel
Solomon will be married in the presence of their immediate family in the El
Cortez Hotel. Rabbi Morton J. Chon will read the ceremony at 1 p.m....
2) "Play Ball! First League Game Sunday," Southwestern Jewish
Press, page 5: Sunday is the day, June 1st, when the first official softball
game between the teams entered in the Jewish Softball League sponsored by the
Southwestern Jewish Press will be played on the diamond at the Horace Mann
Playground. Competition is keen with all participating organizations using
their best athletes on the teams...The players for the Temple Men's Club are Lee
Richards, captain; Harold Lasher, Norman Ripps, Leonard Linn, Rabbi Morton J.
Cohn, Dr. Al Kornbluth, Jerry Greben, David Block, Norman Seltzer, Wm.
Gerelick, Chester Toerner, David Nelson, Morrie Pomeranz, Sam Adler and L.B.
Kent...
June 12, 1947—1) "The Way We Heard It," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 2 ...Rabbi and Mrs. Morton J. Cohn left by motor for
Russian River, California, where Rabbi Cohn will give a series of five lectures
on the Psalms at the Episcopalian Youth camp. Mrs.Cohn returned early this week
from Detroit, Michigan, where she attended the funeral of her mother, Mrs.
Mollie Abraham, who passed away a few weeks ago..
2) "Goodwin_Stern Nuptials Held," Southwestern Jewish Press, page
2: Sunday afternoon, June 8, 1947, Miss Beverly Stern, daughter of Mrs.
Fannie Stern of 2822 30th Street, was married to Donald I. Goodwin, son of Mr.
and Mrs. Irving Goodwin, S. 54th Street, San Diego. The ceremony was
performed by Rabbi Morton J. Cohn at 2 p.m. in Temple Beth Israel in the
presence of about 200 guests...
3) "Temple Youth League," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 7:
Climaxing its first year's activities last Saturday night, the Temple Youth
League held their installation dinner dance at the Shalimar Club. Sharing in the
festivities in addition to dancing to the music of Billy Emerick's Orchestra,
more than 150 adults and young people witnessed the impressive installation of
the officers for the coming term. Rabbi Morton J. Cohn was the installing
officer. Fred Weitzen, Jr., the outgoing president of the T.Y.L., received
a gift in appreciation of his commendable work during the group's initial
year. Rabbi Cohn, who gave so tirelessly of his time and effort and is an
inspiration to the Leaguers was presented with a small token in appreciation...
June 26, 1947—Advertisement for Temple Beth Israel, Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 3: Temple Beth Israel, 2512 Third Avenue, services Every
Friday evening, 8:00 p.m., Visitors Welcome; Nathan F. Baranov, President; Rabbi
Morton J. Cohn; Sisterhood—Luncheon meetings fourth Wednesday each month.
July 3, 1947—"San Diego Prepares for Post-USO," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 4: The USO Area Staff and the Community Welfare
Council of San Diego sponsored a joint conference Friday, June 37th, for the
purpose of formulating plans for continuing certain USO programs and values when
USO finally terminates on December 26th. The morning session which was held at
the ARmy and Navy YMCA had for its main topic "The Kid Brother in
Uniform." ..Mr. George Scott, as chairman, outlines some of the plans San
Diego should consider. Toward this end, a special committee for Services
to Servicemen has been appointed by the Community Welfare Council to work
towards perfecting a permanent community organization. Mr. Burt F. Raynes is
chairman of this committee. Rabbi Morton J. Cohn, Mrs. Rose Neumann, Mrs.
Ray Solomon and Al Hutler attended the luncheon. Esther Siegel, local JWB
Director, was chairman of the USO Planning Committee.
July 17, 1947—Bobby and Larry Solomon, "Copy
Cats," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 7: ...It was a birthday
party for Myron Shelley last Sunday eve at the Mississippi Room at Imig
Manor. Myron's guests who enjoyed a fine dinner and dancing were Shirley
Berenson 'n Stuart Penter, Celia Zahalsky 'n Larry Solomon, Annabelle Rassin who
was with Myron, Mr. and Mrs. Shelley, and Rabbi and Mrs. Cohn. It was a
fine party, and Myron made a genial host. Happy birthday!
August 7, 1947, "Jewish Press to Suspend Publication: Decision
Announced at Meeting of Representatives," Southwestern Jewish Press, page
1:At a meeting held at the home of the publisher and editor of the Southwestern
Jewish Press, Mr. and Mr. Lewis Solomon, on Monday evening, announcement was
made that publication of the paper would be temporarily suspended. The
meeting, which was attended by these representatives of these organizations: Mr.
S. Goldberger for Beth Jacob Congregation, Arleen Fleischman and Bella Mash for
the B'nai B'rith Girls; Mrs. Esther Schwartz for the B'nai B'rith Women; Morrie
Douglas for B'nai B'rith Lasker Lodge and the United Jewish Fund; Mr. Sol Blanc
for Congregation Tifereth Israel; Mrs. Jack Rosenblum for the Council of Jewish
Women; Mrs. Jennie Siner for the Daughters of Israel; Mrs. Marie Berg for
Hadassah; Maynard Horowitz for the Haveros; Mrs. Anna Shelley for
the J.C.R.A.; Mrs. Bess Addleson for the Ladies Auxiliary of the Hebrew Home for
the Aged; Mr. Joe Wertheim for the J.C.S.C.; Mrs. Rose Solomon for the Junior
Charity League; Mr. Phil Goldman for the Yo-Ma-Co; Julie Schneider for the Alpha
Phi Pi; Mrs. Ruth Aronoff for the Beth Jacob Ladies Auxiliary; Mr. Ben Feinberg
for the Jewish Labor Committee; Larry Solomon for the Temple Youth League; Mr.
Carl Esenoff for the Jewish Welfare Society; Rabbi Morton J. Cohn; and Miss
Esther Siegel of the Jewish Welfare Board; was called by Mrs. Solomon to
acquaint the heads of the organizations with the reason for the necessity of the
temporary suspension. Much discussion of the problem was participated in by the
representatives and many suggestions were made. A regret for even the temporary
loss of the paper was unanimously expressed and the ensuing five weeks will be
used by the organization representatives as well as by a committee that will
meet to attempt to find a workable solution of the problem which was
presented. The Jewish press hopes to resume publication of its regular
issues in the near future.
-1949-
April 1949—Bobbie Solomon, "Collegiates
N' Intermejits," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 17: Staring
enchanted (or perhaps simply in a state of coma) a number of musical
devotees...high brows all..were spied at the Russ Auditorium Monday eve (March
21) listening to violinist Joseph Szigeti's performance. Among those music
lovers...we must include the perennially young Rabbi Morton Cohn and his wife,
Sally, Mr. and Mrs. Fred Weitzen, Rabbi Monroe Levens and Mr. and Mrs. Morrie
Krause, whom we spied chatting in the lobby during the intermissions...
May 1949—"Shevous Services Feature Confirmations," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 1, photo caption: Left: Confirmants shown at exercises at
the Temple Beth Israel are shown left to right: Barbara Mallon, Allan Goodman,
Barbara Shames, Rabbi Morton Cohen (sic, Cohn), Florine Olf, Leonard Naiman,
Roann Tepper and Donald Solomon.... Right: Jerry J. Levens, Betty Jo Kaufman,
Ethel Dorris Schwartz, Gary Yale, Breitbard, Edith Claire Press, Estelle Reva
Berliner, Ada Picaizen, and Moses Shapov, who were confirmed at ceremonies at
the Congregation Tifereth Israel.
June 1949—"Tifereth Israel Sisterhood," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 6: On June 9, Rabbi Morton J. Cohn will be the
guest speaker at the Tifereth Israel Sisterhood's final meeting of the '48-'49
season. Mrs Sidney Newman, president will preside and the hostesses for
the evening will be Mesdames: Sam Moder, Paul Moss, Julius Penn, Milton Pokrass,
Frank Pomeranz, Charles Press, Ben Press, Henry Price, Marco Datner (sic Ratner),
Woodrow Ratner...
July 1949—1) "Temple Youth League," Southwestern Jewish
Press, pages 1, 5: This most outstanding youth group in San Diego was
organized by our illustrious Rabbi, Morton J. Cohn in the month of October,
1956. Since its founding back in '46, the Temple Youth League has come to be
known as the T.Y.L. These initials are synonymous to its members as
meaning fun, a good time, meeting new friends and the furthering of Jewish
culture. T.Y.L was started because many teenagers were complaining
"there is nothing for us kids to do in San Diego." Many of our events
have become annual affairs, and looked forward to with great enthusiasm by the
members. A few are: the installation dinner dance, trips to the Tennenbaum Farm
in Poway and our Purim play...Sammy Krasner.
2) "Hillel," Southwestern Jewish Press, pages 1, 5: Made up of
students of the Jewish faith on the State College Campus, Hillel has since its
inception, provided its members with social, educational, cultural and religious
activities to richly supplement their academic life....Hillel's school year
began in September, with its big Get Acquainted Party, held in Scripps Cottage
on campus. It was here that the old-timers met the incoming frosh, introduced
the officers for the year, outlined the coming program, and just generally
"got acquainted." Following this initial success were other
social affairs, including...Hillel's successful model Seder, where a capacity
turnout was instructed in the meaning and significance of Passover by Rabbi M.J.
Cohn...
3) "Jewish War Veterans, Post 185 " Southwestern Jewish Press,
page 1: With the election of Manuel S. Fisher to Post Commander, Harry Aronoff
to Senior Vice Commander, Sam Klug to Junior Vice Commander, Rabbi Morton J.
Cohn as Chaplain, Ralph Feldman as Judge Advocate, Allan Lame as Quartermaster,
David Brooks as Adjutant and Dave Frank as Officer of the Day, the Jewish War
Veterans Post 185 began an active year...
4) "Effron-Kirstein Recite Vows," Southwestern Jewish Press, page
4: In the presence of friends and relatives, Gloria Kirstein gave her hand in
marriage to Milton Effron on June 19 in Temple Beth Israel. Rabbi Morton
J. Cohn officiated. In attendance were Gloria's mother, Mrs. Molly
Kirstein of Indiana; Linda Solof, maid of honor; Janet and Susan Solof, junior
bridesmaids, and Lynn Jacobs as flower girl. Milton's brothers, Jimmy and
Leonard, ushered the bridal party. Eugene Berger was best man...
August 1949—1)"Weiss-Schuman To Recite Vows," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 3: Mr. and Mrs. Lew M. Weiss of 4335 Adler Drive announce
the approaching marriage of their daughter, Jean Claire, to Richard Hal Schuman,
son of Mr. and Mrs. Maurice Schuman of Yuma, Arizona. The wedding will be
performed by Rabbi Morton Cohn in Temple Beth Israel on Sunday, August 14, 1949,
at 3:30 p.m...
2) Bobbie Solomon, "Collegiates N' Intermejits," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 5: ..T.Y.L. Trappers —Those T.Y.L.ers never give up!
Setting out to do the impossible...catch those little fish that are never there,
grunion...Rabbi Cohn's Temple Youth dauntlessly went out grunion hunting. It was
a clear warm night at Ocean Beach Tuesday, July 26 yet, even with their great
spirit and large crowd there just no grunion to be found. among those
peering into the inky waters for the little..smelt were Elene Gordon, Zane
Feldman, Sandra Schissell, Sammy Krasner, Carol Kaufman, Ira Shames, Edith
Press, Jerry Roth, Ari Belanzon and Joel Goldfuss. Although there were no
grunion there were plenty of fun and more sandy shindigs are expected from this
energetic group in the future...
September 1949—1) "Weinstein-Kaner Nuptials Held," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 8: Miss Bunny Berenice Kaner, daughter of Mr. and
Mrs. Ben Kaner of Barron, Wisconsin, and Malcolm Weinstein of Germantown, Pa.,
won of the late Mr. and Mrs. A. Weinstein, were united in marriage on Sunday,
August 21, 1949, at 2:00 p.m. Rabbi Morton J. Cohn performed the double
ring ceremony in Temple Beth Israel which was beautifully decorated for the
occasion with white gladioli, white carnations and white Marconi daisies...
2) "Reder-Rabinowitz Plight Troth," Southwestern Jewish Press, page
8: In the beautiful setting of the garden of her parents' home, Miss Edith
Rabinowitz, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Max Rabinowitz of 3438 Richmond street, was
married to Herbert Reder, son of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Reder of Los Angeles.
Rabbi Morton J. Cohn performed the ceremony on Sunday, August 28, 1949, at 12
noon in the presence of the family and a few close friends...
3) "Robert Beck Bar Mitzvah," Southwestern Jewish Press, page
8: Mr. and Mrs. Leo Beck of 4619 W. Talmadge Drive, announce the Bar
Mitzvah of their son, Robert, at Temple Beth Israel on Friday evening, August
12, 1949. A reception in Temple Center followed the service and Bar Mitzvah
ceremony at which Rabbi Morton J. Cohn officiated...
4) "Men's Club of Temple Beth Israel Holds Election of Officers," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 9: At a recent meeting at the Temple Center, the
following were elected directors of the Men's Club of Temple Beth Israel: Pres,
Richard F. Lustig; Vice Pres.,m Richard C. Levi, Sec'y Jack Rosenblum, Treas.,
Allen Lame. The new Board of Directors is composed of the following men:
Jerome Greben, Ben Harris, Dr. J.A. Rittoff, Abe Sklar, Mort Rosenbaum and Rabbi
Morton Cohn, Ben Rubin and Nate Schiller as ex officio..
5) Bobbie Solomon, "Collegiates N' Intermejits," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 15: ...An old friend of T.Y.L's, comedian Eddy Lyle very
graciously entertained and was incidentally at the best we've ever heard
him. Eddy really put on a great show keeping the crowd (and certain
hecklers) in hysterics. Among the older T.Y.L. kids there were Arlene (a past
prexy) and Danny Orlandsky, Ira Shames, Teddie Feldman, Alice Low-Zimmer, Larry
Gross, Zane Feldman, Sammy Krasnewr, Jerry Krasne, Max Gendelman, Calvin Green,
Lee and Fran Winiki, Myron Shelley, Sandra "Thespian" Schoenkopf,
Larry and Bobbie Solomon, and of course, Rabbi M.J. Cohn to whom all
TYLers old and new owe many thanks for starting such a fine group.
October 1949—1) "Goodman-Chenkin Wedding Announced," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 3: Mr. and Mrs. Saul Chenkin of 4857 Marlborough Drive,
announce the coming marriage of their daughter, Sonia, to Arthur Goodman of
Seattle, Washington, son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Goodman of that city. The
ceremony will be performed in Temple Beth Israel on Sunday, October 30, 1949 at
4:30 p.m. with Rabbi Morton J. Cohn officiating...
2) "Institute Classes
Open on Oct. 12th," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 4: Dr. A.P.
Nasatir, dean of the Institute of Jewish Studies, announces that classes will
officially begin on Wednesday, October 12th at 7:45 p.m. at the Temple Center,
3rd and Laurel Streets. Classes offered are: Beginning and Advanced Hebrew,
History of Jewish Phylosophy (sic), Yiddish Literature, Biblical Literature,
American Jewish History, Jewish Marriage and the Family, "What's
Cooking" in Judaism, and Great Jewish Books. The Institute is in its second
year. Members of the Faculty are Rabbi Morton J. Cohn, Rabbi Monroe
Levens,
Rabbi Baruch Stern, Dr. A.P. Nasatir; Mrs. A. Neumann; Mrs. Harris Rubel; Mrs.
Isaac Domnitz, Dr. Harry Ruja, Mr. Al Hutler and Mrs. Nasatir. Adult Jewish
Studies are sponsored by the Jewish Education Commission of San Diego.
November 14, 1949—1) "Vote Yes! On Library Bond Issue," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 1: Speaking in behalf of three Jewish congregations of
the city, Rabbi Morton J. Cohn urged the necessity of voting in favor of a bond
issue for a new library system...Proposition A on the November 8th ballot.
Rabbi Cohn pointed out that a good main library is badly needed and a good
branch library service depends on an adequate main library. Chosing the present
site for the lcoation of the new main Library building, the San Diego City
Council has placed a Library Bond Issue for $2,000,000 on the Special City
Election ballot of November 8....
2) "Sonia Chenkin Becomes Bride," Southwestern Jewish Press, page
4: A fitting culmination to a series of showers, luncheons and dinenrs
honoring the bridal couple was Sonia Chenkin's wedding to arthur Goodman, son of
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Goodman of Seattle. The marriage ceremony was
performed by Rabbi Morton J. Cohn at Temple Beth Israel, 4:30 o'clock, Sunday,
October 30th...To the strains of th eWedding march, the twelve ushers proceeded
down the aisles, six on each side, and stood on either side of the altar.
Mrs. Molly Rumpler, accompanied by her grandson, gary, were seated in front of
the pulpit. Rabbi Cohn took his place under the flower covered canopy and was
joined by the Groom and the best man, Leon Silver. The processional
continued...
3) "Jewish Institute Opens for Registration," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 8: With one hundred and sixty adults registered for the
Institute of Jewish Studies, the second year of the joint project of three
synagogues and the United Jewish Fund indicates that it will be more successful
than last year's Institute, according to Dr. A.P. Nasatir, Dean. At the
Registration Rally, which was addressed by Dr. Dinnen, Executive Director of the
Board of Jewish Education of Los Angeles, 175 people were in
attendance...Classes formally opened on October 12, with all the courses well
attended. Courses are being offered in Beginning and Advanced Hebrew, Modern
Jewish History, American Jewish History, What's Cooking in Judaism, Contemporary
Israel, Biblical Literature, Jewish Marriage and Family Life, Comparative
Religion and Great Jewish Books. Members of the faculty who have given their
time without pay are Rabbi Baruch Stern, Rabbi Morton Cohn, Rabbi Monroe Levens,
Dave Abramis, Dr. A.P. Nasatir, and Dr. Harry Ruja of State College,
Albert A. Hutler of the United Jewish Fund. Irwin J. Wohl of the Community
Center is acting as Registrar, I.L Domnitz, Mrs. Al Neumann, Mrs. Harris Rubel
and Mrs. Nasatir who has the Great Books course. Registration is still open in
several courses.
4) "Rabbi and Mrs. Cohn Receive," Southwestern Jewish Press, page
8: The Home of Rabbi and Mrs. Cohn, at 1844 W. Sheridan, was the scene of a
reception tendered to the Congregation of Temple Beth Israel, on Sunday, October
9th, from 2 to 5 p.m. In the lovely garden tables were tastefully decorated and
laden with home baked cakes and cookies. Punch with sherbet was served as the
drink. Cantor and Mrs. Julian K. Miller were guests of honor.
November 18, 1949—1) "Cohn Quips While Earth Slips," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 3: Our quick witted Rabbi Cohn broke the tension caused
by a quake, which occurred during his sermon. Said he, "I didn't no
my eloquence would have such an earth shaking effect."
2) "Frankston-Brust Nuptials To Be Held," Southwestern Jewish
Press, page 4: Miss Vesta Helene Brust, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Marcel
Brust, 111 W. Walnut Street, has chosen Wednesday, November 23, 1949 for her
marriage to Morris Frankston, son of Mr. and Mrs. Harold Frankston of 3411 Grim
Avenue, San Diego. The ceremony, which will be performed by Rabbi Morton
J. Cohn at 2 p.m. in the home of the bride's parents, will be witnessed by the
immediate families and a few close friends....
3)""Weinbergers Hit Half Century Mark," Southwestern Jewish Press, page
4: The Cafe Del Rey Moro, in Balboa Park, was the scene of a gay celebration on
November 12th when hundreds of friends and relatives of Mr. and Mrs. Maurice
Weinberger gathered to honor the couple's Golden Anniversary. The
beautifully decorated table with its covering of imported lace, and the three
tiered wedding cake, decorate with gold leaves and doves, marked fifty years on
the marital road, which began in a mining town during the Colorado gold rush.
Notable guests from near and far were present to share the Weinbergers'
happiness. Many lovely gifts were received and generous contributions were made
by friends to worth organizations in honor of the occasion. The host and hostess
made donations to the Hebrew Home for the Aged and the Bergman Memorial Fund.
Among the guests present were Maurice Weinberger's four brothers, U.S. Judge Jacob
Weinberger, Dr. Joseph Weinberger, Henry Weinberger and Arnold Weinberger,
together with their families; Mayor and Mrs. Harley Knox, Rabbi and Mrs. Morton
Cohn, Messrs and Mesdames Carl Johnson, David Levy, Elmer Glaser, Herbert Hafter,
Nate Baranov, Sylvan Baranov, Jake Lieberman, Robt. L. Simpson, FrankW. De Lemos,
Morris Neiderman, Jerome Neiderman, Max Heimburge, Jack Gross, Jack Rosenblum,
Harry Epstein, Robert Epsten, Ted Rosenfeld, Abe Bronstone, David G. Jessop,
Murray Goodrich, Nate Schiller, Leo Greenbaum, Louis Solof, Milo Berenson,
Mesdames Martha Hollander, Pauline Schwartz, Fannie Rosenbloom, Elese Israel,
Richard Weinberger, Thelma Getz, Hilda Brauer, Esther Crane, M.G. Straus and
Evelyn Ginsburg; Capt. and Mrs. willard Greenwald, Mrs. David Greenberg, Mr.
Julius Baer and Robert Hurwitz.
4) "35th Anniversary Observed by Jolly 16," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 6: Autumn colors and candlelight set the mod for the Jolly
Sixteen 35th Anniversary Dinner-Dance held at the El Corte4z Hotel on Sunday
evening November 6th. One hundred and ninety five people entered the Don
Room ...Beautifully gowned women and their handsome escorts were greeted by
members of the Jolly Sixteen.... Rabbi Morton Cohn of Temple Beth Israel gave
the invocation. Ida Nasatir was Toastmistress and in her own inimitable
style gave the history of the Jolly Sixteen. An impressive candlelighting
ceremony was enacted by Bress Breitbard, Julia Neumann, Freda Nestor, Ida
Lipinsky and Rose Neumann. Each represented 20 to 30 years of individual
service to the Jolly Sixteen.. Highlight of the evening was the presentation of
a check for $1500.00 to the Hebrew Home for the Aged. This sum represents the
proceeds from the sale of Jolly Sixteen Cook Books, consisting of recipes
received from women in the community and compiled and edited by Mary Kantor...Sam
Addleson, Pres. of the Hebrew Home, accepted the gift...Rabbi Monroe Levens of
Tifereth Israel Synagogue gave the closing prayer...
5) "Temple Beth Israel," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 8:
Temple Beth Israel will observe a "Guest Sabbath" at the regular
Friday evening service this evening which will be dedicated t the unaffiliated
guest. Rabbi Morton J. Cohn, spiritual leader of the Temple will conduct
this special service. Several hundred invitations have been sent to unaffiliated
families and a large attendance is anticipated. Nathan F. Baranov,
Membership Chairman, states: "The special purpose of this service is to
acquaint the unaffiliated Jew with the many services which the organized
religious center that is the real life of the community can render to
him." The Service will be featured by Cantor Julian K. Miller, whose rich,
melodic voice now graces each Temple service. He will offer a program,
"Gems of Jewish Music." Temple Beth Israel officers and members
join Rabbi Cohn in a cordial invitation to everyone unaffiliated to attend this
Service. A reception in the Temple Center will follow.
December 2, 1949—1) "United Jewish Fund Observes 16th
Anniversary at Nov. 27th Meeting," Southwestern Jewish Press, page
1: Approximately 200 people gathered to pay tribute to Eli H. Levenson,
retiring president of the United Jewish Fund, at the 16th Annual Meeting on
Sunday, November 27th. Judge Jacob Weinberger was also honored and
officially welcomed back to San Diego. The Judge acted as Chairman for the
dinner meeting. Many leaders were honored for their outstanding work on behalf
of the Fund. Morrie Douglas was Program Chairman, Saul Chenkin submitted the
Treasurer's Report, and Marie Berg reported for the Allocations Committee.
Dr. A.P. Nassatir presented the slate of new board members selected by the
nominating committee which received unanimous approval. Albert Hutler,
Director of the Fund, indicated in his report that the greater part of the money
raised in 1949 was sent to the United Jewish Appeal. The low cost of running the
campaign also drew approval.. Rabbi Morton Cohn, Rose Neumann, Henry Weinberger,
Sally Ratner and Murray Goodrich joined in praising the work of Eli Levenson.
Mr. Douglas presented him with a gift from the Board of Directors of the fund.
In his annual report to the community, Mr. Levenson praised the work of the
various committees who had assisted him in the 1949 Campaign. Eli responded to
the many speakers who lauded his efforts and his devotion during the three years
he headed the Fund. He told of the many new organizations which have been
sponsored by the Fund during his term of office. These include the Federation of
Jewish Agencies and the Jewish Center Association. Mr. Levenson also warned the
Community regarding the lack of leadership and the failure of competent men to
accept responsibility. He also called attention to the fact that differences of
opinion exist in all Jewish Communities, as in San Diego, on the role of
religion in the Jewish life. Mr. Levenson further stated that "The
indictment had been made that we, as individuals, have become secularists and as
such, have forgotten our religious heritage, and the roots from which our
charitable inclinations stem, closing our eyes to the needs of our religious
institutions. There appears on the horizion in our community a deliberate plan
and pattern to control the fund raising, the allocations and the disbursal of
funds from our own United Jewish Fund, by those same individuals for their own
interest." Mr. Levenson indicated that even in Israel these same problems
are now being faced. He quoted from Chaim Weizmann's book, "Trial and
Error." He also warned against duplication of effort by
over-organization and selfish interests. "Too often leadership is acquired
by those who aspire to leadership merely for the purpose of being known as
leaders." Mr. Levenson closed by saying "Factionalism and
partisanship—specialization of activity through unnecessary
organization—failure to develop community leadership and lack of desire of
those qualified to accept responsibility of leadership, are the focal points of
danger against which we must always maintain our guards. The combination of
these dangers could well become a most destructive force in the tearing down of
the Jewish community."
2) "Chanukah Celebrations," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 7:
..All of the children of the religious school of Temple Beth Israwel and ther
parents will attend the annual Chanukah program and party which will be held at
Temple Beth Israel onSunday, December 11th at 11:00 a.m. The program is
being prepared by the children under the supervision of rabbi Morton J. Cohn,
Cantor Juliam K. Miller and Mr. Ed. Israel, Jr., School Principal. The feature
of the program will be a play, "Enemies of Israel," presented by the
school dramatic group...
December 16, 1949—1)"Sally Stein to be Bride Dec. 20th," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 6: Miss Sally Stein, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Stein
of Eveleth, Minnesota, has chosen Tuesday, December 20, 1949 to be married to
Mr. Ted Naumann, son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Max Nauman of San Diego. The
candlelight service will be performed by Rabbi Morton J. Cohn at 6:30 p.m. in
the El Cortez Hotel apartment of the groom's cousin, Mrs. Selma Getz, in the
presence of the immediate family...
December 30, 1949—1) "Life Begins for Rabbi
Cohn," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 3: Members of Congregation
Beth Israel are offering congratulations to their spiritual leader, Rabbi Morton
J. Cohn, who will observe his 40th birthday on January 12th. When asked about
the forthcoming even, the Rabbi remarked: "I don't know what all the fuss
is about. I quit observing birthdays sometime ago and I expect to spend this one
at my desk and in the performance of my other duties." During his 3 1/2
years in San Diego, Rabbi Cohn has endeared himself to his many friends in the
community, with his labors to intensify Jewish life here. Under his spiritual
leadership, the local congregation has doubled in membership. Rabbi and Mrs.
Cohn and their two children, Jane and Morton Jr., came to San Diego in August
1946 from Niagara Falls, New York, where he served Temple Beth El for six years.
Rabbi Cohn served as a Navy chaplain for three years during the war, and saw
duty in the South Pacific and at Pearl Harbor. He holds his Navy commission in
the reserve, and by authorization of the Commandant of the 11th Naval District
he serves as Jewish chaplain in the San Diego area. His services in the
community were recognized by election to the Key Club of the United Jewish Fund.
For the past three years he has served on the executive board of the Community
Welfare Council and has filled numerous other positions of civic responsibility
and honor. He is in demand as a speaker by local churches and civic groups.
Rabbi Cohn was recently honored with membership in the Scholia Club, a scholarly
discussion group limited to twenty members who must meet certain academic
qualifications. The Jewish Press joins other well wishers of Rabbi Cohn in
offering warmest congratulations on his 40th birthday.
2) Lou Mogy, "Sports Around Town, " Southwestern Jewish Press, page
5.... I was told: ...Morton Jay Cohn, Jr. {son of the rabbi} was born in
Memphis, Tenn....
3) "Rabbi Cohn to Review, 'Why Jesus Died,' Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 8: At the regular Sabbath evening service of Temple Beth
Israel this Friday evening, December 30th, at 8 p.m., Rabbi Morton J. Cohn will
review the interesting and startling new book, "Why Jesus Died" by
Pierre van Passen. The author is one of the most prominent liberal religious
leaders in American life and is best known among American Jewry for his early
and ardent espousal of the cause of a Jewish homeland in Palestine. San
Diegans will remember that Mr. van Passen addressed the Jewish community last
year under the auspices of the United Jewish Appeal. In the near future he will
appear before the Unitarian Forum here. At the services the new choir will sign
under the direction of Cantor Julian K. Miller.
4) "Episcopalian Rector Invites Cantor to Participate in
Midnight Mass," San Diego Jewish Press, page 8: At the invitation of
Father Harry T. Burkew, Rector of All saints Episcopal Church, Cantor Julian
Miller of Temple Beth Israel rendered the traditional "Panis Angelicus"
at the Christmas Midnight Mass...In commenting upon the invitation, Rabbi Morton
Cohn stated that, "we of Temple Beth Israel are delighted to make this
sincere gesture of 'good will to men' by having Cantor Miller enhance the beauty
of our Christian neighbors' worship at this season so sacred to them. It
is gratifying that a fine appreciation of Cantor Miller's splendid abilities
have reached beyond the Jewish community, and we are confident that he will
prove a splendid cultural asset to the community at large."...
-1950-
January 13, 1950—1) "Institute to Feature Course in
Mental Hygiene," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 1: Featuring three
new courses, the Institute of Jewish Studies will open the second semester on
Wednesday, January 11, at the Temple Center. Dr. A.P. Nasatir, Dean,
announced the opening of new courses in "Mental Hygiene Problems of the
Jewish Family," "Jewish Music and Art," and the
"Contemporary Jewish Scene." Courses will be continued in Advanced
Hebrew, Contemporary Religions, cooking, Basic Judaism, Modern Jewish History,
Literature of the Bible, Talmud and Book Reviews. "Mental Hygiene
Problems" will be conducted by Dr. Irving R. Stone, senior clinical
psychologist, San Diego state Mental Hygiene Clinic.. The course will have as
visiting lecturers Dr. Benjamin B. Faguet, chief psychiatrist of the clinic;
Mary Lou Prawl, Nevin Wiley and William Long, psychiatric social workers; Dr.
Jack Levitt, psychiatrist, and Professor Oscar Kaplan, associate professor of
psychology, San Diego State College. Other courses will be taught by
rabbis Morton J. Cohn, Monroe Levens and Baruch Stern, Dr. A.P. Nasatir, Dov
Abramis, Professor Ernest Wolf, Albert A. Hutler, Professor Harry Ruja, Mrs. Al
Neumann and Mrs. Harris Rubel. Registration will continue thru Wednesday,
January 18, and may be made on that evening or by calling F-0171. The Institute
of Jewish Studies is sponsored by the Jewish Education Commission made up of
Temple Beth Israel, Tifereth Israel Synagogue, Beth Jacob Synagogue and the
United Jewish Fund of San Diego.
2) Lou Mogy, "Sports Around Town," Southwestern Jewish Press, page
5: ..I was told: The wedding of Inez Horowitz and Merle Jacobson was attended
by over 600 people. Afterwards they all went to the reception at the San Diego
Club. Mayor Knox, District Attorney Keller, Superior Court Judge Glenn and
Municipal Court Judge Molina were all present. The "Nose" really went
over at this affair. Supervisor Rossi, Judge Molina, Sam Sklar, Rabbi
Cohn, Sam Fischer, and Saul Chenkin all enjoyed the
"Nose." Hilarity greeted the "Nose" wherever it
went...{no further explanation of this inside joke}.
3) "Temple Beth Israel," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 8:
Annual Meeting -- The Annual Meeting of Temple Beth Israel Congregation will be
held Thursday, January 19th at the Temple Center at 8:00 p.m.... On Friday,
January 20th, Rabbi Morton J. Cohn will resume his series of sermons on the
subject, "These Things We Believe." The second sermon in this
series will discuss, "Israel, A Peculiar People."...
January 27, 1950—"Temple Beth Israel," Southwestern Jewish
Press, page 8: ... Rabbi Morton Cohn announced that the sermon on January
27th will be the third in his series These Things WE Believe. It is
entitled, "Torah, Israel's Textbook on God."...Cohn is leaving Sunday,
January 29th, for San Francisco to attend the Annual West Coast Conference of
Jewish Army-Navy and Veterans Administration Chaplains sponsored by the Division
of Religious Activities of the National Jewish Welfare Board.
February 10, 1950—1) "Reform Congregations in Bid for United
Religious Front," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 1: At a recent
meeting in Los Angeles, the heads of the Reform movement in the United States
expressed a desire to negotiate an arrangement with the leaders of the
Conservative Synagogues for a united religious front. Rabbi James G. Heller,
principle speaker, at the meeting the Southern California Council of the Union
of American Hebrew Congregations said: "We have been trying to get together
with the heads of the Conservative groups to formulate a plan whereby our books
and studies could be integrated into one system of teaching Judaism."
The Jewish Press interviewed Rabbi Morton J. Cohn, spiritual leader of
Temple Beth Israel, who made the following comments: "My personal opinion
is that the Conservative movement in Israel is operating on the fundamental
principles first enunciated by the Reform movement. It is the right and
obligation of each generation to gear its religious thinking and practices on
the basis of its needs, and at the same time remain loyal to the fundamental
Jewish tradition> It is my personal belief that these two great movements in
Israel operate along parallel lines with variations only in emphasis and degree.
Sincere and honest deliberations among the Lay and Rabbinical leaders of Reform
and Conservatism may very well result in an ultimate coalition of these two
religious forces in the not too distant future."
2) "Allocations Committee Sets
New Pattern," Southwestern Jewish Press, pages 1, 8: In an all day
session of the 1950 Allocations Committee, held last Sunday at the El Cortez
Hotel, a new precedent in disbursing monies to be raised was set for the San
Diego Jewish Community. For the first time, budgeting has been done prior to the
campaign so that the contributor will know how the money would be distributed.
The committee consisting of members of the Board of Directors of the Fund,
organization presidents and members at large, formulated a pattern for the
distribution of money raised in the 1950 campaign. Sol Price,
chairman of the committee, announced that of the first $150,000 raised, 83
percent was allocated for the United Jewish Appeal and other Israel overseas
agencies, 10 percent to local agencies and 7 percent to national agencies. Of
the next $50,000, 95 percent to the United Jewish Appeal and other overseas and
Israel agencies, and 5 percent to national agencies. All over this amount
would go to the United Jewish Appeal. According to Price's announcement the
following organizations will be beneficiaries of the 1950 campaign: United
Jewish Appeal, Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society, Jewish Telegraphic Agency, American
Friends of the Hebrew University, American Committee for the Weizmann Institute
of Science, American Technion Society, American Fund for Israel Institutions,
National Committee for Labor Israel (Histadrut), City of Hope—JCRA, Jewish
Committee for Personal Service, Leo M. Levi Memorial Hospital, American Jewish
Congress, Jewish Labor Committee, Joint Defense Appeal, B'nai B'rith National
Youth Services Appeal; Yiddish Scientific Institute, American Association for
Jewish Education, Jewish War Veterans of the United States, National Jewish
Welfare Board, Synagogue Council of America, Training Bureau of Communal
Service, Hebrew Theological College, Jewish Theological Seminary, American
Hebrew Congregations, Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America, Yeshiva
University. The Allocations Committee heard Mr. Moritz Gottlieb, lay leader of
Allentown, Pa., representing the United Jewish Appeal, state that in 1949 San
Diego, in giving 88 percent of the monies raised through the United Jewish
Appeal, had done an outstanding job and that there were not too many communities
which had shouldered their responsibilities as well. Rabbi Leonard Greenberg,
Los Angeles , spoke for the American Jewish Congress. Histadrut's spokesman was
Sol Goodman, while Murray Goodrich represented the American Fund for Israel
Institutions. Henry Weinberger presented the case for B'nai B'rith Youth Service
Appeal. Members of the Allocations Committee, besides Price, were Victor
Schulman, Rose Neumann, Henry Weinberger, Ben Harris, Ben Feinberg,
Harry Engel, Sol Goodman, Mrs. Dora Richlin, M.S. Berlin, Seymour Rabin, William
B. Schwartz, M.W. Douglas, Lou Mogy, Sam Addleson, Alex J. Newman, Rodin S.
Horrow, Abe Sackheim, Mrs. Gabriel Berg, Mrs. Sidney Goldhammer, Maxwell
Kaufman, Rabbi Monroe Levens, Sam Slayen, Morris Neiderman, E.R. Bland, Sam
Sosna, Dr. William Ornstein, Lew Pollack, Dr. David Miller, Dr. A.P. Nasatir,
Frank Winicki, Rabbi Baruch Stern, Rabbi Morton J. Cohn, Morry Kraus, Nate
Schiller, Edward Kitaen, Richard Levi and Carl Esenoff.
3) Temple Beth Israel," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 8: The renowned Boys Choir of All-Saints Episcopal Church
will sing at the Beth Israel Temple on Friday evening February 10th in
observance of Brotherhood Week. Cantor Julian Miller, upon the invitation of the
all-Saints Episcopal Church, sang at their Christmas Eve Midnight Mass. Cantor
Miller will direct both the Church and Temple Choirs in individual and joint
renditions. This week's services will be of unusual beauty and interest. The
community is urged to invite their friends of other faiths to attend this
Brotherhood Service. Rabbi Cohn's sermon "Light for the Lamp of
Progress" is in commemoration of the 103rd anniversary of the birth of
Thomas A. Edison. Election of Officers—New officers and board members
were elected at the last Board meeting held at the Temple Beth Israel. Murray D.
Goodrich was elected President; Nathan Schiller, vice president; Ben Rubin,
treasurer; Mrs. Jack Wyner was again named secretary to the Board. Members
of the Board are: Ben Harris, Morris Douglas, Leon Heiman, Elliot Cushman, Selma
Getz, Jack Gross, Dr. Robert Sone, Mrs. Alan Soule, Myron Lustin (sic, Lustig);
Eli Levenson, Maurice Harris, Nathaniel Ratner, Henry Weinberger and Nathan
Baranov, Honorary Presidents. President Goodrich stated: "We look forward
to a successful year in completing the fund raising for the Bergman Memorial
Pulpit and the increase in Friday night attendance at services."
Installation of officers of the Temple Beth Israel will take place at the
regular Sabbath Evening Services at 8:00 p.m., Friday, February 17. The newly
elected Officers and Directors will be formally installed in an impressive
ceremony by the rabbi. Rabbi Cohn's sermon will be on a theme appropriate to the
occasion. All members are urged to attend.
February 24, 1950—1) "Allocations Committee Sets
New Pattern," Southwestern Jewish Press, pages 1, 8: In an all day
session of the 1950 Allocations Committee, held last Sunday at the El Cortez
Hotel, a new precedent in disbursing monies to be raised was set for the San
Diego Jewish Community. For the first time, budgeting has been done prior to the
campaign so that the contributor will know how the money would be distributed.
The committee consisting of members of the Board of Directors of the Fund,
organization presidents and members at large, formulated a pattern for the
distribution of money raised in the 1950 campaign. Sol Price,
chairman of the committee, announced that of the first $150,000 raised, 83
percent was allocated for the United Jewish Appeal and other Israel overseas
agencies, 10 percent to local agencies and 7 percent to national agencies. Of
the next $50,000, 95 percent to the United Jewish Appeal and other overseas and
Israel agencies, and 5 percent to national agencies. All over this amount
would go to the United Jewish Appeal. According to Price's announcement the
following organizations will be beneficiaries of the 1950 campaign: United
Jewish Appeal, Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society, Jewish Telegraphic Agency, American
Friends of the Hebrew University, American Committee for the Weizmann Institute
of Science, American Technion Society, American Fund for Israel Institutions,
National Committee for Labor Israel (Histadrut), City of Hope—JCRA, Jewish
Committee for Personal Service, Leo M. Levi Memorial Hospital, American Jewish
Congress, Jewish Labor Committee, Joint Defense Appeal, B'nai B'rith National
Youth Services Appeal; Yiddish Scientific Institute, American Association for
Jewish Education, Jewish War Veterans of the United States, National Jewish
Welfare Board, Synagogue Council of America, Training Bureau of Communal
Service, Hebrew Theological College, Jewish Theological Seminary, American
Hebrew Congregations, Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America, Yeshiva
University. The Allocations Committee heard Mr. Moritz Gottlieb, lay leader of
Allentown, Pa., representing the United Jewish Appeal, state that in 1949 San
Diego, in giving 88 percent of the monies raised through the United Jewish
Appeal, had done an outstanding job and that there were not too many communities
which had shouldered their responsibilities as well. Rabbi Leonard Greenberg,
Los Angeles , spoke for the American Jewish Congress. Histadrut's spokesman was
Sol Goodman, while Murray Goodrich represented the American Fund for Israel
Institutions. Henry Weinberger presented the case for B'nai B'rith Youth Service
Appeal. Members of the Allocations Committee, besides Price, were Victor
Schulman, Rose Neumann, Henry Weinberger, Ben Harris, Ben Feinberg, Harry
Engel, Sol Goodman, Mrs. Dora Richlin, M.S. Berlin, Seymour Rabin, William B.
Schwartz, M.W. Douglas, Lou Mogy, Sam Addleson, Alex J. Newman, Rodin S. Horrow,
Abe Sackheim, Mrs. Gabriel Berg, Mrs. Sidney Goldhammer, Maxwell Kaufman, Rabbi
Monroe Levens, Sam Slayen, Morris Neiderman, E.R. Bland, Sam Sosna, Dr. William
Ornstein, Lew Pollack, Dr. David Miller, Dr. A.P. Nasatir, Frank Winicki, Rabbi
Baruch Stern, Rabbi Morton J. Cohn, Morry Kraus, Nate Schiller, Edward Kitaen,
Richard Levi and Carl Esenoff.
2) "Temple Beth Israel Sisterhood," Southwestern Jewish Press,
page 6: ...As February is Brotherhood month, Mrs. Sam Friedman, program chairman
for the Temple Sisterhood, chose to express Brotherhood through music. Mrs.
Murray D. Goodrich, president, is pleased to announce that Sisterhood members
and guests will have the pleasure of hearing the choir of the All-Saints
Episcopal Church and the choir of the Bethel A.M.E.Z Chapel at this meting.
Cantor Julian Miller of Temple Beth Israel has been working with the All-Saints
choir and will direct them. Rabbi Phineas Smoller, coming in from Los Angeles
expressly for this meeting, will be the guest speaker. This should be an
inspiring address.for Rabbi Smoller is Executive Director of the Southern
California Council—Union of American Hebrew Congregations and a fluent
speaker. Rabbi Smoller is an intimate friend and former schoolmate of our
own Rabbi Morton J. Cohn...—Lillian Heiman
March 10, 1950,—1) "Society-Personals," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 4: ... Mr and Mrs. Ben Harris entertained some friends
after the regular Friday night services at Temple Beth Israel on March 3rd.
Among those present were Rabbi and Mrs. M. Cohn, Mr. and Mrs. A. Sklar, Mr. and
Mrs. M. Gray, Mr. and Mrs. J. Wyner, Mr. and Mrs. M. Feldman, Mr. and Mrs. R.
Harrow, Mrs. J. Le Vine, Mr. and Mrs. M. Ackerman, Mr. and Mrs. R. Spiegel, Mrs.
J. Greben, Mr. and Mrs. M. Kaufman, Mr. and Mrs. N. Schiller, Mr. and Mrs. L.
Heiman...
2) "Temple Beth Israel," Southwestern Jewish Press, page
7: Regular Friday night services of Temple Beth Israel tonight will have as
speaker Dr. Thomas Law Coyle, Minister of the First Presbyterian church, who
will occupy the pulpit in the absence of rabbi Cohn. His sermon bears the
provocative title, "Net and Drag."... Friday, March 17th, the Rabbi
will resume his pulpit to preach on the subject "Common Sense About
Inter-Marriage." This sermon is in response to numerous requests for a
clarification from the pulpit on this important theme, and all young people are
especially invited to hear it and to participate in the open forum discussion of
the subject after the services....This Friday evening Rabbi Cohn is in Palm
Springs to preach on the invitation of the newly organized congregation.
His visit is under the auspices of the Southern California Council of the Union
of American Hebrew Congregations which is providing this new group with
Rabbinical speakers until the community is in a position to engage its own
spiritual leadership. Rabbi Cohn and his family will spend the weekend in the
desert resort city...
March 28, 1950—1) "Interfaith Program at State College," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 1: Hillel Foundation of San Diego State College will
present an Interfaith Seder on March 28, at Scripp's Cottage. The Seder will
begin at 7:30 p.m. and it will be officiated by Rabbi Cohn and Cantor
Miller. Members of Hillel will participate in the ceremony with the
reading of the Haggadah...
2) "Chaplain Goldberg Honored at Reception," Southwestern Jewish
Press, page 1: On Monday evening, March 20th, Rabbi and Mrs. Morton Cohn
honored Chaplain and Mrs. Joshua Goldberg at a reception in their home. Those
present were Captain and Mrs. Wm. Raffeerty, District Naval Chaplain; Captain
and Mrs. Warren Cuthriell, Naval Training Center; Commander and Mrs. Peter
McPhee, District Chaplain's Office; Lt (jg) and Mrs. Garson Goodman, Jewish
Chaplain; Mr. and Mrs. Victor Schulman; Mr. and Mrs. M.D. Goodrich; Mr. and Mrs.
Nathaniel Ratner, Mr. and Mrs. Nathan Schiller, and Mr. and Mrs. Maxwell
Kaufman.
3) "Norman Silverman Bar Mitzvad," Southwestern Jewish Press, page
2-3: On Saturday, March 25th, at 11:00 a.m. in Temple Beth Israel Norman
Silverman became a Bar Mitzvah during the Sabbath morning services. Rabbi Morton
Cohn officiated. Norman is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Milton Silverman of
Coronado. An informal reception in the Temple Center followed the service.
4) "Temple Beth Israel," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 6: ...
Temple Youth League to Hold Sunday Night Seder —For what is believed to be the
first time in the history of the local Jewish community, a seder will be held by
and for the young people of the Jewish community on Sunday evening, April 2nd,
at 6:30 p.m. in the Temple Center, according to an announcement made by Herbert
Solomon, President of T.Y.L. assisted by Rabbi Morton J. Cohn and Cantor
Julian K. Miller, the young people will conduct the full Seder and sing the
melodies. This is not merely a "demonstration seder," as the
complete Passover meal will be served...Beth Israel Observes Hebrew Union
College Jubilee—One of the most impressive services of the year will be held
at Temple Beth Israel, 3rd and Laurel, this Friday evening, March 31. Together
with over 400 other liberal Jewish congregations, the Temple will observe the
75th Anniversary of the founding of the Hebrew Union College in Cincinnati, the
oldest and largest Jewish Rabbinical Seminary in America. A special service of
impressive beauty will be presented in which prominent Lay leaders will
participate. Rabbi Morton J. Cohn will preach on the subject, "The Old
Master Builder."...Passover Services—Concluding Passover services will be
held Friday evening, April 7th. A Yizkor (Memorial) Service will be
incorporated and all members who have lost loved ones in the past should attend
this service. Rabbi Cohn emphasized, however, tht this festival service is
not limited only to those who have suffered bereavement but should be attended
by all observant Jews. The Rabbi's sermon will be on a theme appropriate
to Passover...
5) "Passover Greetings," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 9: The
following Jewish families of San Diego County send their greetings to their
friends and neighbors— Rabbi and Mrs. Morton J. Cohn and Family Extend Best
Wishes for the Passover Holiday....
6) Sammy Krasner and Don Rosen, "You Name It," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 25: ... Next week, Hillel will hold its Third Annual
Inter-faith Passover Seder. The Seder will begin at 7:30 p.m., March 28, at
Scripps Cottage. Officiating will be Rabbi Cohn and Cantor Miller...
April 14, 1950—1) Linda Solof, "Linda's Lookout," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 3: ...Speaking of Sedars (sic, seders), the Temple Youth
League had a beautiful Youth Sedar (sic, seder) the second night of Passover.
Rabbi Cohn performed a magnificent service and Cantor Miller lead the songs.
Sittin' dippin' and eatin' were Lettie Levens, Burt Sharpe, esther Lustig, Don
Goldman, Don Solomon, Linda Solof, Jerry Schissell, Jackie Brodman, Herb
Solomon, Sandra Schissell, Roasalie Millman, Joel Goldfuss, Pete Haas, Howard
Esterson, Art Cohen, Ada Picaizen, Dean Greenburg, Barbara Ackerman, Aaron
Kolkey.
2) "Second Anniversary of Israeli Independence To Be
Celebrated," Southwestern Jewish Press, pages 4, 6: A day long
program of celebration by the San Diego Jewish Community will mark the second
anniversary of the rebirth of Israel which falls this year on April 3rd, the
Fifth of Iyar. Festivities which will be initiated by the Cottage of Israel with
a special program on the lawns of the House of Pacific Relations will be
climaxed by an evening program at the Temple Center at 8:00 p.m. under the
auspices of the San Diego Zionist Council. "The Zionist Council believes
that the occasion is one of great joy to the entire community and calls for a
program in which the community can participate," according to a statement
by its chairman, Mrs. S.I. Goldhammer. Accordingly, the evening program will
include musical and dancing selections, as well as a brief panel discussion and
greetings from civic officials. The musical program will include selections sung
by Cantor Julian Miller, a duet by Norman Holtzman and Esther Weitzman, violin
selections by Dr. David Miller accompanied by Mrs. Belle Cohen, and modern
Israeli dances and songs by the IZFA Dance group. The audience will be invited
to join in communal singing led by Cantor Miller and will be encouraged to join
in some Horas at the conclusion of the program. Honored guests of the evening
will include Mrs. Mary Fay, member of the Board of Education and Chairman of the
local chapter, American Christian Palestine Committee, who will extend greetings
from the Committee. A brief panel discussion on the relationship of Israel and
America will include as speakers, Mrs. Gabriel Berg, who will discuss the
necessity of financial aid to Israel; Dr. A.P. Nasatir, who will point out the
need for a Zionist Public Relations program; Mrs. Meir Barach, whose
subject will be Chalutziot, and Rabbi Morton J. Cohn who will discuss education
as the bridge between America and Israel. Rabbi Monroe Levens will give the
Invocation. Rabbi Baruch Stern the Benedeiction. Mrs. Goldhammer will chair the
program. Organizations represented by the Zionist Council are Masada,
Hadassah, Pioneer Women Negba Group, Pioneer Women Shashana Group, Poale Zion
and Zionist Organization of America. Guests will be invited to join in
refreshments and a social hour. There is no admission charge and no
solicitations.
3) Lou Mogy, "Scene Around Town," Southwestern Jewish Press, page
8: ...I believe that one of the most important meetings in the history of the
Guardians will be the next meeting to take place on Thursday, May 4th, in the
Gold Room of the U.S. Grant Hotel. Among the many notables who are
expected to attend will be Congressman Clinton D. McKinnon, Dist. Atty Don
Keller, Vice Mayor Vincent Godfrey, Supervisor Dan Rossi, Councilman Charles
Dail, Federal Judge Jacob Weinberger, City Attorney Jean De Paul, City
Manager O. W. Campbell, Al Schuss, Fire Chief George Courser, Police Chief Elmer
Jansen, Sheriff Bert Strand, Rabbi Morton J. Cohn, Rabbi Monroe Levens and Rabbi
Baruch Sterns. There will also be presidents of many of our organizations
in attendance. Remember the date and let us come out and pay honor to an
outstanding community leader....
4) "Temple Beth Israel," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 9:
April 19th marks the first anniversary of the death of Rabbi Stephen S. Wise,
one of the imortals of American Jewry. At the regular Friday evening worship
service tonight, at 8:00 p.m., Rabbi Morton J. Cohn will preach a memorial
sermon on the life and influence of this great spiritual leader, with special
reference to his recently published autobiography, "Challenging
Years." At next week's Sabbath Eve service (Friday, April 21, 8 p.m.) Rabbi
Cohn will take cognizance of the Second Anniversary of the establishment of the
State of Israel by preaching on the subject, "We Light the Second
Candle."...On Saturday evening, April 15, Rabbi Cohn will present a paper
before the Scholia Club on "The State of Israel and the Arab
Problem." This is in response to a request by this group of civic and
intellectual leaders...
5) "Rabbi Cohn to Head Institute," Southwestern Jewish Press, page
9: At a dinner meeting of the faculty of the Jewish Education Commission
preceding the commencement exercises of the Institute of Jewish Studies, it was
unanimously voted that Rabbi Morton J. Cohn will become acting Dean of the
Institute. Dr. A.P. Nasatir bade farewell to the staff and thanked them for
their cooperation during the past year. Dr. and Mrs Nasatir will leave San Diego
in June and spend one year in France. Mr. J.M. Kartzinel, the Pacific Coast
representative of the Jewish Education Association, was a guest at the dinner
which was attended by more than 30 people.
April 28, 1950—1) Maxwell Kaufman, "An Evening of
Enlightenment," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 5: The Scholia
Society is comprised of a group of men chosen for their high character and
scholarship. Members include some of San Diego's best minds, intellectually and
culturally. I was invited to attend a recent meeting of this group, at which
Rabbi Morton J. Cohn read a paper on the subject "Israel and the Arab
Problem." Rabbi Cohn gave a masterful presentation of the facts on the Arab
problem in Israel. I sat back and waited for comments. Non-Jews, when
discussing Jewish topics with Jews are usually reticent in saying what is really
in their minds, either because they fear to offend or do not wish to be
misunderstood .I can assure you that this was not the case here. It took Rabbi
Cohn almost one hour to read his paper and everyone of the fourteen members was
taking notes. When the comments began there were no criticisms, but questions
were raised. Questions that indicated an utter lack of information on the modern
State and its relationship to the Western World. They showed undue concern for
the fate of the Arabs; some of them defended Britain's position on the Palestine
struggle and rejected the criticism leveled at the part England was now playing
in arming the Arabs. Other questions asked were "Why do the Jews want
to set up another Nation instead of being scattered all over the world where
they have made such fine citizens?" "Does the Jewish 'Race' think its
destiny is to get back to Palestine and spread its culture throughout the East?
"What about redress to the Arabs?" "Will the Jews play fair with
them?" "What will be done for the 400,000 Arab refugees?" There
was a reference to the Jews as parasites, moving in on Arabs and swallowing them
up, like plants in the jungle. One member made the shocking remark that
"The American Jews may be building a Frankenstein in Israel, which may in
time be the cause of the Catholics and Protestants uniting and seeing that the
Jews all go to Israel." Fortunately, none of the others shared this
dangerous and completely distorted point of view. There was a great deal more
said, but space limits me to the above reflections. What was most alarming about
the reactions of these men of high caliber was their almost total lack of
information regarding the Jews in America, Zionism, its history and goals, and
Israel. Absent from the discussion were understanding, sympathy and objectivity.
What was present were suspicion and distrust of our motives regarding Arabs and
a deep-rooted conviction regarding the place of Jews in the Christian world. I
am grateful to Rabbi Cohn for extending to me the privilege of "listening
in." I came away from the meeting convinced that the most glaring weakness
in the entire Zionist movement has been its failure to obtain American
mass-support through an intensive yet subtle program of education. A way must be
found to disseminate more information about our point of view among the
non-Jews. This should be a challenge to our various Zionist organizations, the
Christian Committee for Palestine and the Community Relations Council. The
time for it is now! With the bitter controversy over the proposed
internationalization of Jerusalem and the possibility of renewed warfare thrust
upon little Israel by the rearming Arab states—it is later than we think!
2) "Temple Beth Israel Sisterhood," Southwestern Jewish Press, page
9: Setting a precedent for what is hoped will be a yearly function, Mrs. Norman
Seltzer and Mrs. Sylvan Baranov, chairmen, announced the first Mother and
daughter luncheon to be given by the Temple Beth Israel Sisterhood.
Saturday, May 13th, is the date set for this event which will be held in the
Temple Center, 3rd and Laurel St. Rabbi Morton J. Cohn will hold special
religious services for mothers and thier daughters in the Temple proper at 11:00
a.m. preceding the luncheon...
3) "Temple Beth Israel," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 12:
This Friday evening, April 28th, Congregation Beth Israel will be host tot he La
Jolla Behel of Job's Daughters. The young ladies of this organization and their
parents will attend the service, and Miss Barbara Goldy, who heads the chapter
this year, will participate. Rabbi Cohn's sermon will deal with a theme
appropriate to the occasion...
4) "Men's Club to Entertain Wives," Southwestern Jewish Press, page
12: On Tuesday evening, May 2nd at 8 p.m. in the Temple Center, the Men's Club
of Temple Beth Israel will play hosts to their wives at a Television
Party. A novel and entertaining program has been arranged by Mr. Richard Lustig,
president, and Rabbi Cohn..
5) "T.Y.L. Plans Barbecue and Dance," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 13: The Temple Youth League of Congregation Beth Israel
announces two splendid social events in the immediate future. ... Want a
wonderful week of camping at Lake Tahoe? The 4th Annual Jewish Youth Conference
camp, sponsored by the Western Association of Reform Rabbis, will be held July
24-30. Young people from the entire West Coast will attend. Local scholarships
to pay expenses will be available. Young people who are interested are asked to
contact Rabbi Cohn for further information.
May 12, 1950—1) "Magic Carpet Day Huge Success," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 1: More than 150 people gathered at the Temple Center on
April 30 at 9:30 a.m. in response to the call issued by the "Magic
Carpet" Division of the United Jewish Fund in its "Keep the Miracle
Alive" campaign. After issuing instruction to the group of volunteers
Morrie Douglas, chairman of the day introduced Ida Nasatir who gave an inspiring
"kick off" talk to the workers. Rabbi Morton J. Cohn pronounced
the blessing and sent them out...
2) "New Americans To Be Greeted by Mayor and Mrs. Harley Knox," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 2: Rabbi and Mrs. Morton J. Cohn will hold an Open House
for New Americans in our community on Sunday, May 28th, from two to four p.m. at
their home, 1844 Sheridan Avenue. All of the emigres who have made San Diego
their home in recent years have been invited to attend. Mayor and Mrs.
Harley Knox will attend and greet the New Americans. Assisting Rabbi and Mrs.
Cohn will be those leaders in the community who have been closely identified
with the emigre program. Officers of the Council of Jewish Women will assist and
all members of the Council are cordially invited to attend along with the entire
community.
3) Lou Mogy, "Scene Around Town," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 5: The last Guardian meeting was something never to be
forgotten. I believe it will go down as one of the outstanding Jewish
events in the history of San Diego Jewry. Mr. George A. Scott was
presented a plaque for his outstanding effort in community human relations. Sam
Addleson made a magnificent presentation on behalf of the Guardians. Outstanding
civic and spiritual leaders were present. Among the many distinguished men who
spoke were the following: Judge Jacob A. Weinberger, Vincent Godfrey,
James A. Robbins, Rabbi Baruch Stern, Rabbi Monroe Levens, Rabbi Morton
J. Cohn, Victor Schulman, Reverend Dr. Thomas Law Coyle, Eli Levenson, Carl
Esenoff, Murray D. Goodrich, Lou Steinman, Al Newman, Morrie Kraus and Zel
Greenberg. Cantor Miller, assisted by Mrs. Florence Corwin, sang two beautiful
Hebrew melodies. Mrs. Rose Neumann was introduced and the audience heard her
thoughts contained in the hearts of both Mrs. Neumann and Mr. Scott. I can only
say that I am particularly proud in having played a small part in this wonderful
evening and presentation. It also makes a fellow feel good to know that
something in principal which he fought for came to such a glorious and
successful end.
4) "Sisterhood Mother-Daughter Luncheon," Southwestern Jewish
Press, page 6: ... Florence (Baranov) and Marjorie (Seltzer) are planning a
delightful afternoon for you and your daughter(s), whether large or small. Rabbi
Morton J. Cohn will conduct special services in the Temple at 11:00 a.m.
{Saturday, May 13},and all mothers and daughters are urged to attend. A tasty
lunch will be served, at noon, at only 50 cents per person, followed by
entertainment provided by several talented mother-daughter teams...
5) "Temple Beth Israel," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 6:
This Friday evening immediately preceding Mother's Day has been designated as
Sabbath Ovos (Parent's Sabbath). This Sabbath will be observed at Temple Beth
Israel with a special ritual for the occasion. Rabbi Cohn will preach on the
subject, "Portrait of a Parent." Friday evening, May 19th, has
been set aside as Pre-Confirmation Sabbath. The members of the Confirmation
Class will attend with their parents and Rabbi Cohn's sermon,
"Loyalties," will be his message to the class prior to their
confirmation on the following Sunday evening. The final regular Sabbath
service of the year will be held Friday evening May 26th. This will be "P.T.A.Sabbath."
Rabbi Cohn will install the newly elected officers of the religious school
Parent-Teacher association, and his sermon, "Why a P.T.A?" will deal
with the significance of this organization to the congregation...At its final
meeting of the year, held last week, Beth Israel's Parent Teacher Association
elected the following officers for the year 1950-51: Mrs. Robert G. Miller,
President; Mrs. Maury Novak, Vice President; Mrs. Sam Lennett, 2nd Vice
President; Mrs. Florence Corwin, Recording Secretary; Mrs. Bernard Asner,
Corresponding Secretary; Mrs. Robert Strauss, Treasurer. Newly elected Directors
were: Mrs. Jos. Kwint, Mrs. Donald Pogrell, Mrs. Harry Demsey, Mrs. Joe
Silverman, and Mrs. Louis Stein. These officers will be installed by Rabbi Cohn
in the Temple at P.T.A. Sabbath Services on Friday evening, May 26th.... Last
week the members of the Men's Club of Temple Beth Israel entertained their wives
at a Television Party. Through the courtesy of Mr. Jack Gross and Station KFMB-TV
a delightful television program was presented. The following officers were
elected for the next year: Allan Lame, President; Maxwell Kaufman, Vice
President; Myron Lustig, Secretary; Jack Rosenblum, Treasurer. The
following were elected to the Board of Directors: Maury Ackerman, Leon Heiman,
Mack Esterson, and Richard Levi. Mrs. Leo Mintz, who is confined to the
U.S. Naval Hospital with a broken hip, was elected an Honorary Director because
of his active interest in the Men's Club. Nathan Schiller, Abe Sklar and Dr. J.A.
Rittoff are carried over as directors for next year. Ex officio members
are Rabbi Morton J. Cohn and Richard Lusting. Mr. Richard Lustig, retiring
president, and Rabbi Cohn outlined ambitious plans for next year's program of
activities....Services at Temple Beth Israel will be held throughout the summer
months every Friday evening at 8 p.m. These will be brief, half-hour services
and will be conducted by the Rabbi, assisted by Cantor Miller and lay-leaders of
the Congregation.
May 26, 1950—1) "Open House for New
Americans," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 1: On Sunday, May 28, from two to four in the afternoon,
Rabbi and Mrs. Morton J. Cohn will hold an open house at their home, 1844
Sheridan Avenue, for the New Americans in our community. Members of the Council
of Jewish Women, who have been largely responsible for the local emigre program,
are invited to attend along with their husbands. Guests of honor will b Mayor
and Mrs. Harley Knox, Judge and Mrs. Jacob Weinberger, and Judge and Mrs.
Frank Molina.
2) "To Be Wed," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 3: Sylvia Marie
Goldman will be married to Bernard Horrow on Sunday, June 4th, in the study of
Rabbi Morton J. Cohn, at Temple Beth Israel. The bride-to-be is the
daughter of Helen Goldman of this city...Bernard Horrow (is the) son of Mrs.
Anna Horrow of San Diego...
3) Lou Mogy, "Scene Around Town," Southwestern Jewish Press, page
7... I Congratulate -- The services of confirmation at Temple Beth Israel, on
Sunday, May 21s, was a never to be forgotten occasion. Orchids to all. I
congratulate Rabbi Morton J. Cohn and everyone who helped make ths a most
eventful evening. I congratulate all the confirmants and their proud
parents.
June 9, 1950—"Home for the Aged," Southwestern Jewish
Press, page 8: At the Fifth Annual May Donor Luncheon of the Women's
Auxiliary the following officers were installed by Ida Nasatir: Mrs. Wm. Moss,
Pres; Mrs. Morris Feldman, 1st Vice Pres; Mrs. Sarah Shelley, 2nd Vice Pres.;
Mrs. Max Rabinowitz, Treas.; Mrs. Moe Hershey, Recording Sec'y; Mrs. Abe
Forster; Corresponding Sec'y; Mrs. Paul Cudney, Auditor; Mrs. Zel Greenberg,
Parliamentarian.The motif of the installation was a large wishing well, into
which the members dropped coins, as wishes were made by the narrator, Ida
Nasatir. Elected to the Board for 1950-1951 were the following members: Mesdames
Milo Berenson, Edward Binder, Morris Breitbard, ARthur Glickman, Jose.
Goldhammer, Ben Levenson, Paul Nestor, Geo. Neuman, Harry Rosenthal, Nathan
Rubin, Abe Sackheim, Abe Sklar, Sam Sklar, Jeennie Siner, Henry Witte.
Mrs. Al Neumann is an honorary life member and Mrs. Saul Chenkin is an honorary
director. The three religious leaders in our community participated in the
ceremonies. Rabbi Morton J. Cohn gave the Invocation, Rabbi Monroe Levens spoke
on "Reflections of the Home and Its Bearing on the Communty," and
Rabbi Baruch Stern gave the Benediction...
July 7, 1950—1) "The Cradle," Southwestern Jewish Press, page
3: Sanford Harrison Steinman moved into the spotlight of the Kornblum-Steinman
family on Wednesday, June 28th. Sandy was born at 6:22 p.m. and weighed 6 lbs 7
1/2 ozs. Dorothy and Harvey Steinman, proud parents, and "Big Sister"
Susan are already planning his future. Rabbi Morton J. Cohn officiated at
the Brith on July 5th. Mr. and MRs. Morris Feldman are the honored
godparents. Maternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. I.B. Kornblum, of Los
Angeles are with their daughter in San Diego. Paternal grandparents are Mr. and
Mrs. Louis Steinman. Greatgrandparents are Mr. and Mrs. M. Silverman of San
diego, MRs. S. Steinman and Mrs. S. Beshon of Los Angeles.
2) "Temple Beth Israel Reveals Plans for New Altar," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 6: It was revealed today by the Board of Directors of
Temple Beth Israel that contracts have been let for the construction of the
Bergman Memorial Altar. Milo Berenson, prominent local builder, has been
awarded the contract, which culminates nearly two years of careful planning to
establish a perpetual memorial for the late beloved spiritual leader. The
altar will mark a new departure in design, in that it incorporates the newest
ideas in synagogue construction, combining the utilitarian with traditional
dignity. A rich walnut paneling on rear and side walls of the altar forms a
striking framework for the dramatic treatment of the Ark. Unusual,
concealed lighting effects will highlight the magnificent, 30-foot, glass-spun
drapery of the Ark. Worshippers will enjoy an unobstructed view of the entire
altar, since the Menorah-shaped twin pulpits for Rabbi and Cantor will be at the
two sides. Enhancing the sanctity of the altar will be specially designed
wrought brass candelabra and eternal light, built-in settees, sound system and
planter boxes bearing perennial tropical plants....According to Rabbi Morton J.
Cohn , who urged the building of the altar nearly two years ago, this fine
improvement will enhance the beauty of worship during the approaching High Holy
Days.
3) "Temple Youth League Welcomes New Youth Counselor," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 6: At its beach party Saturday evening, July 1st,
the Youth League of Temple Beth Israel was introduced to its new counselor, Mrs.
Richard Hyman...Together with Rabbi Morton J. Cohn, she is planning a rich and
varied program of social, recreational, and cultural activities for young people
under sponsorship of the Temple Youth League....
July 21, 1950—"Nandor Simon Dies Suddenly," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 3: Nandor Simon, beloved husband of Mollie Simon, passed
away suddenly on July 18. Services will be held at Merkley Austin Mortuary
Friday morning, by Rabbi Morton J. Cohn. Mr. Simon will be interred in Los
Angeles. Survivors are Leo Simon of New York, Jack Simon of New York,
Sylvia Greenberg of Detroit and Rose Simon Kohn of Los Angeles.
August 4, 1950—1) "Sylvia Bauman Wed," Southwestern Jewish
Press, page 3: Hotel del Coronado was the setting for the wedding rites of
Sylvia Ruth Bauman, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Bauman of this city, and
Samuel Warner Halper, son of Mr. and Mrs. Louis J. halper of beverly Hills, on
Sunday, July 30. Rabbi Morton J. Cohn read the nuptials in the Coronet
Room. A dinner in the hotel for 100 guests followed the ceremony. After a three
week motor trip up north, the couple plans to be at home in Los Angeles.
2) "Barbara Jeanne Dumont Wed," Southwestern Jewish Press, page
3: Barbara Jeanne Dumont, ward of Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Bass of this city, became
the bride of Milton Goodman Mason, so of Mr. and Mrs. George Mason of Santa Ana,
at a lovely double ring ceremony at the Bass residence on Sunday, July 30, at
2:30 p.m.. Rabbi Morton J. Cohn officiated....
3) Lou Mogy, "Scene Around Town," Southwestern Jewish Press, page
5: As I sit in a Convair plane with my friend Vic Schulman coming home
from San Francisco, my thoughts are of my family. Tonight my son Joel is to be
Bar Mitzvah. With only the noise of the motors to disturb my thinking the
thirteen years of Joel's life comes before me.... This evening in Temple Beth
Israel, Rabbi Morton J. Cohn will officiate the Bar Mitzvah ceremony.
Tonight Joel Mogy will take his place amongst us men. Am I proud? What do
you think?...
August 18, 1950—1) Albert Hutler, "Community Currents," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 2: Jewish Education in San Diego—The second year
of the Adult Institute for Jewish Studies sponsored by the Jewish Education
Commission, will open on Wednesday, October 11, 1950, at Temple Beth Israel
Center. In a preliminary discussion by the commission, it was planned to
continue several of the courses which have been given in the past, and to
introduce several new and interesting subjects. One of the possibilities is to
bring to our community several important and outstanding lecturers and artists
as part of the institute. Rabbi Cohn, Dean of the Institute, while Dr. A.P.
Nasatir is in Europe, urges everyone to make plans to spend their Wednesday
evenings at the Institute. One of the first cooperative ventures between the
Synagogues and the Central Community Organization, the Institute attracted
national attention on its opening some two years ago....
2) "Personals," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 3: Rabbi Samuel
D. Soskin of New York has been visiting his friends Rabbi and Mrs. Morton J.
Cohn. Rabbi Soskin, a chaplain in the last war, served in the Pacific. He is a
former classmate of Rabbi Cohn and officated at his wedding.
3) Lou Mogy, "Scene Around
Town," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 5: The annual all city
Jewish picnic will take place on Sunday, August 27th at El Monte County Park.
Remember everyone is invited to come out . The picnic is under the auspices of
the Jewish Community Center. Transportation will be supplied at the following
points: Beth Israel, 10:00 a.m.; Tifereth Israel Synagogue, 10:15 a.m.;
Beth Jacob Synagogue, 10:156 a.m. The S.D. Janitor and Supply Co. will
supply one of the trucks for transportation. There will be games, races and
entertainment. Soft drinks and coffee can be purchased on the grounds. There are
facilities for 2,000 people. Ted Schiller is chairman of the committee on races.
Morris Wax will be in charge of the softball game. Bob Goodwin is chairman of
transportation. Ed Israel and Lou Pollack are co-chairmen of the games
committee. The Rabbi Moise Bergman Memorial Softball Trophy will be presented to
the Alpha Phi Pi Softball Team, winners of the year's softball championship. All
newcomers to San Diego during the last year will be introduced and officially
welcomed to San Diego. The presidents of all congregations and Rabbi Morton J..
Cohn, Rabbi Monroe Levens and Rabbi Baruch Stern will be introduced. This
picnic is for one and all. It creates good fellowship. Why not all come out and
enjoy yourself...Sunday, August 27th from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. How to
reach El Monte Park -- Go out No. 80 (El Cajon Blvd). Look for Lakeside sign in
El Cajon, turn left, go through Bostonia, straight through City of Lakeside
until you see a sign El Monte Park...
4) "Deceased," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 6: Hannah Ferer,
beloved wife of Allen Ferer, passed away, August 9. Services were held at
Merkeley Austin Mortuary on the following day with Rabbi Morton J. Cohn
officiating. Mrs. Ferer was interred in St. Louis, Mo. Survivors include a son,
Ensign Harvey Ferer, a sister, Sophie Popper of St. Louis, Mo., and a brother Al
Popper of Chicago, Ill.
September 8, 1950—1) "Marvin Greene—Revlyn Louise Brenner,"
Southwestern Jewish Press, page 3: On the candlelit altar of the
Temple Beth Israel, Revlyn Louise Brenner and Marvin Greene recited their
marriage vows in a double ring ceremony on Sunday, September 34d. Rabbi Morton
J. Cohen (sic, Cohn) united them under a beautiful shell-shaped canopy of white
flowers. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Theodore Brenner, of
this city, and the groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Greenberg, of San
Francisco....
2) "Congregation Beth Jacob," Southwestern Jewish Press, page
18—It was with mixed emotions of solemnity and elation that Beth Jacob
Congregation held the consecration ceremonies of their new Synagogue on August
20. Beginning with the conveyance of the Torah Scrolls from the old synagogue to
the new one on 4473 30th Street, an assembly of 500 people gathered in the
auditorium to listen to a program especially planned for this rare occasion.
Chairman for the afternoon was Mr. A. Abramson, president of the congregation,
the invocation being given by Rabbi Monroe Levens with Rabbi Morton J.Cohn
rendering the benediction. Representative leaders in the Jewish Community, among
them Mr. Murray Goodrich, president of Temple Beth Israel, and MR. Alex Newman,
president of Tifereth Israel Synagogue were on hand to extend their greetings
and best wishes. Addresses were given by Rabbi Baruch Stern, spiritual
head of the congregation and Rabbi Simon Dolgin, guest speaker who leads another
Beth Jacob Congregation in Los Angeles. Both were inspiring and inspired by the
attainment of another spiritual wellspring for the continuity of the Jewish
religion and culture in this community. Entertainment was well provided by
Cantor Boris Gassin of Hollywood, formerly of Golden Gate Temple, San Francisco.
Here is a cantor with a melodious and true voice who not only provides a
pleasing rendition of liturgical music but has a delightful personality to add
to his other talents. Mr. Morrie Kraus, building chairman, who has worked so
strenuously for the attainment of this project, was presented with a gift by the
Congregation as a token of appreciation. The entire community is invited to
atend Slicoth services on Saturday midnight, Sept. 2, at which time services
will be conducted by Rabbi Stern and Cantor Gassin. Seats for the High Holy Day
services are selling rapidly and reservations can be made by phoning J-4834 or
R-1706.
3) "The Synagogue Hour," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 18:
Radio Station KSON has set aside the hour from 8 to 9 in the morning every
Sunday for broadcasts of the various religious groups in San Diego. The
period allocated to the Synagogues is from 8:30 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. Rabbi Morton
J. Cohen (sic, Cohn) will present the service on September 10; Rabbi Monroe
Levens on September 17 and rabbi Baruch Stern on September 24. The
"Synagogue Hour" can be an excellent source of education and goodwill
for the community. KSON is conducting this Hour as an experiment and if it
meets with public approval it will undoubtedly be continued. Listen—then write
expressing your appreciation and interest.
4) "Synagogue Register," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 18:
Important events in the life of the individual Jew are of significance not only
to himself and his family, but also to the Community at large. It is customary
among numerous religious groups to preserve the information of such events in a
permanent register. After a joint consultation, Rabbi Cohn, Rabbi Stern,
and Rabbi Levens came to a decision that it would be advantageous for the San
Diego Community to have such a register, in which there would be recorded
permanently at no cost to anyone such vital statistics as births, marriages, Bar
Mitzvahs, confirmations, conversions, deaths, etc. This Synagogue Register
will be conducted as a join enterprise, and its privileges available to everyone
on a citywide basis. All vital statistics beginning with the coming New Year
will be automatically included in the Synagogue Register. Joint Religious
Education Committee Meets—On Aug. 23rd, a meeting was held of the three
Religious Education Committees of the Synagogues. Rabbi Morton J. Cohn opened
the meeting, emphasizing the fact that there are many areas of common concern in
Jewish education in San Diego, which could be best promoted by a joint effort of
the three congregations, with the greatest benefits thus accruing to the entire
Jewish community. A report submitted by Mr. Leon Elkind reviewed the
Synagogue Religious School Picnic held last June in Balboa Park. All agreed that
the picnic was most successful and augured well for further joint celebrations
in the future. Among the problems discussed were: 1) A uniform educational
calendar for the year; 2) a united campaign for enrollment and publicity; 3) the
need for setting up city-wide teaching standards and the possibility of offering
professional assistance to those who would like to teach in the Synagogue
Religious Schools; 4) Uniform standards and requirements for Bar Mitzvah,
confirmation and graduation. The meetings of the Joint Religious Education
Committee are of an advisory and consultative nature, though it was felt that
all matters which were agreed upon unanimously should carry the obligation of
being carried out. The meeting place will be rotated among the three synagogue
buildings, and will be chaired by each Religious Education Committee in
rotation. Various committees were appointed to conduct research and study into
the several problems that were discussed.
September 22, 1950—1) "Adult Study to Open Third Year Oct. 11," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 1: School begins for students in the adult
Institute of Jewish Studies on Wednesday, October 11, 1950, at Temple Beth
Israel Center, the Jewish Education Commission announced this week. Headed
by Rabbi Morton J. Cohn, acting dean, the Institute will again offer a wide
variety of courses on popular Jewish subjects. Hebrew courses for
beginners and advanced students, Yiddish, History, Philosophy, Bible,
Literature, Current Problems, Jewish Literature, Music, Songs, and Dances, as
well as the famous cooking courses, set up for young marrieds, are some of the
courses which will be given in the first semester. A new departure for the
Institute will be the opening of courses of young people, starting with a course
to be taught by Rabbi Cohn, "Problems Confronting Jewish
Youths." Another new course will be offered for "New
Americans" in the community titled "All About America and San
Diego." The Jewish Education Commission was the first step in
community cooperation between the three congregations and the United Jewish
Fund. It was also the first local movement in the field of Jewish
Education. Registration in the Institute will take place October 11, at
the Beth Israel Center, beginning at 7:30 p.m.. Registration may be made
by calling Franklin 0171.
2) "Personals," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 3: Rabbi and
Mrs. Morton J. Cohn were at home to members of their congregation on Rosh
Hashanah afternoon, September 12.
3) "Ike Glasser," Southwestern Jewish Press, page
6: Funeral services were held in Oceanside for Ike Glasser who died at his home,
512 South Nevada in Oceanside on September 12. Services were under the auspices
of Oceanside Masonic Lodge No. 381 F. & A.M. of which Mr. Glasser was a
member. Religious rites were performed by Rabbi Morton J. Cohn. Burial was at
the Home of Peace Cemetery. Surviving are his wife, Lena, three daughters,
Gertrude Glasser, Mrs. Melville Gredis and Mrs. Basil Indermill, a brother,
Mason Glasser and a sister, Mrs. Lillian Shore of Los Angeles. He also leaves a
brother and three sisters in eastern cities.
4) "Beth Israel Schedules Sukkos Services," Southwestern Jewish
Press, page 6. The festival of Sukkos or Booths will be ushered in at
Congregation Beth Israel on Monday, September 25th at 7:30 p.m. All
children in the Religious School and their parents are expected to attend this
beautiful harvest festival worship service. ... Rabbi Cohn's sermon, "Our
Fruits of Thanksgiving," will be of appeal to parents and children alike.
Regular Friday evening services will be held at 8 p.m. on September 29.
Rabbi Cohn will preach the sermon, and a social hour with group-signing led by
Cantor Miller will follow the service. The entire community is always welcome to
our worship service...
5) "Beth Israel Religious School," Southwestern Jewish Press, page
8: Last Sunday, September 17th, Congregation Beth Israel's Religious
School opened its doors to a record enrollment of children. Under the direction
of Rabbi Morton J. Cohn and Mr. Louis Stein, Principal, members of the
Parent-Teacher Association served as registrars...
6) "Temple Beth Israel To Dedicate Bergman Memorial
Altar," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 8: It was announced
today by Mr. M.D. Goodrich, president, that the dedication of Temple Beth
Israel's new Bergman Memorial Altar will be designated with impressive services
Monday, October 2nd at 8 p.m.. It is appropriate that the dedication
should take place on the eve of Sh'mini Atzereth, the Festival of Conclusion. A
Memorial (Yizkor) Service will be incorporated into the ritual. Prominent
leaders of the religious life of the Jewish and general community are being
invited to participate in this impressive Service of Dedication, and the
community at large is invited to attend, to pay honor and homage to the sacred
memory of the late Rabbi Moise Bergman, to whom the Altar is dedicated. The
dedicatory sermon will be preached by Rabbi Morton J. Cohn...
October 6, 1950—1) "Temple Beth Israel," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 7: ...On Tuesday, October 10th, at 3:45 p.m., the Hebrew
Day School of Temple Beth Israel will open with registration at the Temple
Center. Any child in the community of 3rd grade age and over is eligible to
attend at no charge or fee whatsoever. It is announced by Rabbi Morton J.
Cohn and Mr. M.D. Goodrich, President, that competent instructors have been
engaged to provide a Hebrew education for all boys and girls on Tuesday and
Thursday afternoons after public school hours. Attendance at the Day
School is compulsory for all boys now eleven and twelve years old, who expect to
be Bar Mitzvah in the Temple... Sabbath Services—Regular Friday evening
services at Temple Beth Israel will be held at 8 p.m. and the community is
always warmly welcomed to the worship service and the Social Hour and Songfest
which follow, led by Cantor Miller. This Friday evening, Rabbi Cohn will preach
on "Beginning All Over Again," drawing his theme from the fact that
this is Shabbos B'Reshis, when the annual cycle of reading the Torah begins.
Next Friday evening, October 13th, Rabbi Cohn's Sermon, "Facing the
Inevitable," will deal with the most crucial problem faced by every human
being. It is urged that all members and their friends hear the discussion of
this vitally important topic.
2) "Music, Dancing To feature School For Adults," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 8: Wednesday, October 11th, will mark the opening of the
third season of the Institute of Jewish Studies. Sponsored by the Jewish
Education Commission, the three periods of classes will again be held at Temple
Beth Israel Center every Wednesday from 7:45 p.m. to 10:20 p.m. Plans call for
two class periods and a third period featuring Jewish Songs, Folk dancing and
discussions, in which all students will participate...Rabbi Morton J. Cohn, Dean
of the Institute, leads a faculty which is well known to the students,
including: Rabbi Baruch Stern, Dov Abramis and Leon Elkind in the Hebrew
Department; Isaac Domnitz in the Yiddish; Cantor Julian Miller, Music; Albert A.
Hutler, Mrs. Rose Neumann, Mrs. Harris Rubel and Edward Schwartz. Again
"What's Cooking in Judaism," a cooking class taught by Neumann and
Rubel will be a feature of the Institute specially designed for young married
women who wish to learn to prepare Jewish dishes for their husbands' palates...
October 20, 1950—1) "Adult Jewish Institute Open for
Registration," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 1:
Registrations are still being accepted by the Institute of Jewish Studies, as
classes opened last Wednesday, Rabbi Morton J. Cohn announced yesterday.
"With close to last year's registration figure, ten classes are in
session." Courses are offered in Modern Jewish History and Biblical
Literature, taught by Rabbi Morton J. Cohn of Beth Israel Temple; "What We
Jews Believe," given by Rabbi Baruch Stern of Beth Jacob Synagogue;
Beginning and Advance Hebrew with Dov Abramis as the instructor; Cantor Julian
Miller teaches a class in Jewish Music Appreciation; Comparative Religion is
taught by the very popular Professor Harry Ruja of State College; Contemporary
Jewish Literature, a Book Review and Discussion class is led by Edward Schwartz,
prominent young attorney; the Contemporary Jewish Scene, a discussion of day by
day problems and challenges, led by Albert A. Hutler, Executive Director of the
United Jewish Fund, and a Cooking Course by Mrs. Rose Neumann and Mrs. Lucille
Rubel. Classes are held every Wednesday evening from7:45 to 10:20
p.m. Refreshments are served at the end of the second period, followed by
a general assembly for the entire student body. This period is devoted to
discussions, lectures, movies, community singing, and folk dancing. Sponsored by
the Jewish Education commission, the Institute is a cooperative effort of the
three Synagogues and the United Jewish Fund. The Commission is composed of
representatives of these bodies who plan the program for the Institute of Jewish
Studies, and who are working toward a Jewish Education program in the community
on an entire community level. At the last meeting of the Jewish Education
Commission the resignation of Rabbi Monroe Levens as a member of Commission was
accepted with regrets. The commission also expressed its intention of continuing
its efforts toward the establishment of a Community Talmud Torah in San
Diego. Mr. Moss Addleson was elected to the Commission as a member
at large.
2) "Deceased," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 2 -- Arthur G.
Meyer, 82, a resident of San Diego for three years, died at his home, 236 Kalmia
on Saturday, October 14. He was a member of Mt. Neboh Lodge 257 F. & A.M.
and The Mecca Shrine Temple of New York City and Scottish Rite Bodies of San
Diego. His wife, Elka Meyer, survives. Funeral services were held Monday,
October 16, at Benbough Mortuary. Rabbi Morton J. Cohn assisted at the
service.
November 3, 1950—1) "Liberal Jewish Leaders Gather in
Cleveland," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 1: More than 2,000
religious and lay leaders representing over 420 Reform congregations affiliated
with the Union of American Hebrew Congregations will attend the 41st Biennial
Convention of the Union at the Cleveland Hotel in Cleveland, Ohio, from November
12 to 14...Rabbi Morton J. Cohn of Temple Beth Israel is attending the
conference.
2) "Jewish Institute," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 3:
German, Yiddish and Polish will greet anyone who ventures intot he kitchen of
the Beth Israel Center on any Wednesday night. There Rose Neuman and Lucille
Rubel hold sway in a cooking classs predominantly made up of Emigre housewives
who are eager to learn American and Jewish style cooking. Sponsored by the
Institute of Jewish Studies, which meets every Wednesday evening at the Center,
the cooking class is being run in conjunction with the Emigre Committee of the
United Jewish Fund...The Institute, a joint project of the Synagogues and the
United Jewish Fund, has an enrollment of over 90 adult studens and 10 classes
ranging from Hebrew to a discussion of community problems...The Jewish Institute
is directed and operated by the Jewish Education Commission of which Rabbi
Morton J. Cohn is the chairman.
3) "Temple Beth Israel Sisterhood," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 10: The hilarious Country Fair comedy skit presented by
the program committee at the October Sisterhood meeting had everyone present
rocking with laughter. Rabbi Morton J. Cohn presented a few pertinent
facts concerning the House of Living Judaism Building to be erected in New York
City, the cornerstone for which will be laid on Sunday, November 19th...
4) "Beth Israel Has Guest Speakers," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 10: During the absence of Rabbi Morton J. Cohn,
guest religious leaders will speak at the Friday evening services at Temple Beth
Israel, 34d and Laurel. Rabbi Cohn will attend the annual convention of the
Union of American Hebrew Congregations in Cleveland. On November 3rd, Dr.
Stanley McKee, minister of the First Methodist Church, will occupy the
pulpit...Mr. Peter H. Samson, leader of the First Unitarian Church, will be the
guest speaker on Friday evening, November 10th. Dr. John Wiley of the Mission
Hills Congregational Church, will speak on November 17th....
November 17, 1950—1) "Guest Speaker Temple Beth Israel," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 1: Third guest speaker to occupy the pulpit of Temple
Beth Israel during the absence of Rabbi Morton J. Cohn, will be Rev. Dr. John C.
Wiley of the Mission Hills Congregational Church, leader of the church for the
past ten years and is Past Pres. of the S.D. Council of Churches. he will speak
on the subject, "The Witness of God in all Religions." Rabbi
Cohn will return to the pulpit on November 24 when his sermon will be
"What's New in Liberal Judaism."
2) "Annabelle Rassin-Ted Mintz to Wed," Southwestern Jewish Press,
page 3: Annabelle Rassin, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Sam Rassin, will become
the bride of Ted J. Mintz, son of Mr. and Mrs. A.L. Mintz, at a family wedding
in the Don Room of the El Cortez Hotel on Sunday, Nov. 19 at 2 p.m. Rabbi Morton
J. Cohn will read the service before an altar to which baskets of autumn-hued
flowers will lend beauty....
December 1, 1950—1) "Tifereth Israel Breaks Ground for New
Religious School Building," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 1: The
ceremonies of groundbreaking for the new Religious School Building of Tifereth
Israel Synagogue will take place Sunday, December 3rd, at 2:30 p.m. at Tifereth
Israel. The entire community is most cordially invited to attend the ceremonies.
Invitations have been extended to San Diego community leaders in all walks of
life to be present at the ceremonies. The invocation will be given by Rabbi
Baruch Stern. Cantor Joseph Cysner will direct the Junior Choir in several
musical presentations. Greetings will be extended by a number of dignitaries.
Rabbi Morton J. Cohn will give the Benediction and Rabbi Monroe Levens will
deliver the address. The Ground-Breaking Ceremonies are under the direction of
Mr. Isadore Teacher, Chairman of the Building Committee; Mr. Arthur Gardner,
Chairman of the Building Finance Committee; Its Penter, Irving Goodman, the
officers of the congregation, including Alex J. Newman, President; M.S. Berlin,
Vice Pres.; Henry Bowman, Recording Secretary; Edward Baranov, Financial
Secretary; Moe J. Hershey, Treasurer. The new building, designed in the offices
of Milo Berenson, building consultant, contain nine classrooms, as well as
facilities for a pre-school and kindergarten, a main auditorium that can be used
for assemblies, meetings, dinners, dances, and dramatic presentations, etc.,
kitchen, library, lounge and offices. Various bronze plaques to be affixed to
the new building will honor the names of those who have made contributions in
certain amounts. The names of the contributors will be inscribed in the Golden
Book of Honor, as a permanent remembrance. In addition, some rooms have been
subscribed for, and will bear the names of the donors. At present such rooms
have been contributed by the families of Alex J. and Sidney Newman, Ralph
Hosenpud, Max and Arthur Gardner, in memory of Charlotte Gardner, the Daughters
of Israel and the Tifereth Israel Sisterhood, which has subscribed for one of
the assembly halls. A reception will follow the Ground-Breaking Ceremonies
tendered by the Daughters of Israel and the Sisterhood.
2) "Weitzen-Glickman Exchange Vows," Southwestern Jewish Press, page
3: Saturday evening, November 25, Arlene Glickman, daughter of Mr. and Mrs.
Arthur E. Glickman, became the wife of Fred Weitzen, Jr., son of Mr. and Mrs.
Fred Weitzen at a family wedding in the home of the bride's cousins, Mr. and
Mrs. Saul Chenkin. Rabbi Morton J. Cohn performed the ceremony. Given in
marriage by her father, Arlene was gowned in an original rich cream satin dress
with a yoke of net outlined with bead embroidery. The embroidery was repeated on
the bodice and long sleeves. Her finger-tip net veiling was caught to a Juliet
cap and she carried an orchid-topped white Bible with stephantis streamers.
Serving her sister as maid of honor was Roberta Glickman. Roberta wore a dress
of ice pink taffeta skirted in net, with matching mitts. Aqua carnations were in
her cascade flower arrangement. Joseph Weitzen served his brother as best
man. Members of the immediate families and the bridal party gathered at a dinner
following the ceremony. A honeymoon for the newlyweds will be spent motoring
northward.
3) "Atomic Age and Religion," Southwestern Jewish Press, page
6: Dr. Robert Millikan, internationally known physicist and Nobel Prize winner,
delivered the keynote address for Religious Emphasis Week at State College,
November 28. Jewish, Catholic and Protestant ministers spoke at seminars
tot he students. Among speakers for the Jewish group were: Rabbis Morton J.
Cohn, Monroe Levens, Baruch Stern, Albert M. Lewis of Temple Isaiah, Culver
City; and Yehudah M. Cohen, Pacific Regional director of B'nai B'rith
Foundation, Dr. Ernest Wolf, S.D. Hillel director, and Maxwell Kaufman of the
Jewish Press. Jewish Seminars presented views of "Marriage and
Intermarriage," "Business and Labor in Modern Jewish Ethics" and
"The Place of Religion in Jewish History and Culture."
December 15. 1950—1) "Frankel-Eisenthal Marriage Told," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 3: Mr. and Mrs. Harry Hoffman of this city, announce the
marriage of their granddaughter, Marilyn Frankel, daughter of Mr. and Mrs.
Leonard Zurit, of Los Angeles to Gerald Eisenthal, son of Mr. and Mrs. Morris
Eisenthal, also of Los Angeles. The ceremony followed by a reception was held at
the El Cortez Hotel on Sunday, Dec. 3 at 1:30 p.m. Rabbi Morton J. Cohn
officiated. Barbara Mallen, the bride's cousin, served as maid of honor. The
couple are honeymooning in Las Vegas, after which they will reside in Los
Angeles.
2) "Temple Beth Israel Worship Services," Southwestern Jewish
Press, page 5: At Sabbath eve worship services this Friday evening, December
15th, at 8 p.m., Rabbi Morton J. Cohn will preach on the subject, "What Man
Most Desires." On December 22nd the subject of Rabbi Cohn's sermon will be
"Where Jew and Non-Jew Meet" (a pre-Christmas Meditation). On Friday
evening, December 29th, Rabbi Cohn will evaluate the present world crisis in his
sermon, "What Does the New Year Hold For Us." Each Friday
evening service at Temple Beth Israel is followeed by an Oneg Shabbat (social
hour), including forum discussion and songfest. The entire community is
cordially invited to attend Sabbath eve worship services at Beth Israel, Third
and Laurel Streets.
3) "Rites Held For Mrs. Strickman," Southwestern Jewish Press, page
5: Mrs. Bessie Strickan, a 20-year-resident of San Diego and formerly of
Chicago, Illinois, died November 29 in a local hospital. Services were held
December 1 at Johnson-Saum Mortuary followed by entombment at Beth Olam Masoleum
in Los Angeles. Rabbi Morton J. Cohn officiated. Surviving are her
husband, Gershon Strickman, two daughters, Rita Betty Strickman of this city and
Mrs. Shirlie Hillman of Hayward, Calif. A mother, MRs. Anna Kowitz lives in
Elgin, Ill., and two sisters, Mrs. Sylvia Coady and Mrs. Lanora Kuppur reside in
Chicago, Illinois.
-1951-
January 5, 1951—1) "Dr.
Weinberger Succumbs in S.F.," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 1: Dr.
Joseph Weinberger, 62, a thirty-eight year resident of San Diego died while
visiting in San Francisco, December 31. Funeral services will be held at
Merkeley Austin Mortuary on Friday, 10:30 p.m. Rabbi Morton J. Cohn will
officiate. Dr. Weinberger was former president of the San Diego Medical Society,
a member of medical associations, University Club, and a Mason and Shriner.
Surviving him are four brothers, Maurice, Henry, and Federal Judge Jacob
Weinberger of San Diego, and Arnold Weinberger of Denver, and five sisters, Mrs.
Rose Berkowitz and Mrs. Ethel Mann of Denver; Mrs. Fanny Roseblum of Los
Angeles; Mrs. Pauline Schwartz and Mrs. Jennie Levy of San Diego.
2) "Beth Israel Annual Dinner-Meeting," Southwestern Jewish Press, page
1: By way of innovation this year's annual meeting of Congregation Beth Israel
on Thursday evening, January 18th, will be a dinner-meeting, it is announced by
M.D. Goodrich, President. A Sisterhood Committee under the chairmanship of Mrs.
Abe Sklar is preparing a delicious dinner (limited to Temple members and their
wives, at the low cost of $1.25 per plate.) Those members who cannot attend the
dinner at 6:30 p.m. are urged to come for the meeting at 8:00 p.m. Many
important items make up the agenda of the meeting. President M.D. Goodrich will
present his report of activities and achievements during 1950. Committee
Chairmen will give reports on the progress of various phases of Temple work.
Rabbi Cohn will speak to the membership on past accomplishments and future
projects. Six new directors will be elected to the Board. Plans of vital
importance to the future welfare of the Congregation will be presented, and all
Temple members are urged to attend. Remember the date, Thursday evening, January
18th, in the Temple Center. Members who wish dinner reservations are asked to
phone the Temple Secretary, F. 9-4631.
3) "Beth Israel Sabbath Services," Southwestern Jewish Press, page
6: Friday, January 5, 8:00 p.m. -- Does the end always justify the means?
What shall be our world goals in these critical times, and how may we achieve
them? These and related questions will be discussed by Rabbi Morton J. Cohn in
his sermon "Ends and Means in Achieving Peace." Saturday,
January 6, 11:00 a.m. —The regular monthly junior congregation service will be
held. All religious school children are expected to attend; their parents and
other adults are welcome. Rabbi Cohn's story sermon will be of interest to all
ages. The January birthday children will be called to the Altar for the Rabbi's
blessing....
4) "Jewish Institute to Reopen," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 6: The Institute of Jewish Studies announces the
reopening of the semester after a two week vacation. Rabbi Morton J. Cohn stated
that classes would be resumed on Wednesday, January 3, at 7:45 p.m. at the
Temple Center.
5) "Jean Siegel-David Askenaizer Recite
Vows," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 7: White gladioli and
chrysanthemums served as a background for the wedding of Jan Frances Siegel,
daughter of Capt. Arthur Siegel (DC) USN and Mrs. Siegel, when she became the
wife of Samuel David Askenaizer, son of Mr. and Mrs. Herman Askenaizer of Los
Angeles, on December 21 in the home of Dr. and Mrs. J.A. Rittoff. The simple
ceremony was performed by Rabbi Morton J. Cohn...
6) "Harry Ratner Bar Mitzvah," Southwestern Jewish Press, page
7: Harry Arnold Ratner, son of Mr. and Mrs. Nathaniel Ratner, was called to the
torah as a Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, Dec. 16, at the Tifereth Israel Synagogue at
10 a.m. Rabbis Monroe Levens and Morton J. Cohn co-officiated. A reception
followed the service.
7) "Jennie Hymes Succumbs at 68," Southwestern
Jewish Press, page 7: Jennie Hymes, beloved wife of David Hymes and mother
of Dr. Stanley Hymes, passed away Tuesday, January 2. Funeral services were held
Thursday January 4 at 2 p.m. at Merkeley Austin Mortuary. Rabbi Morton J. Cohn
officiated. Burial was at the Home of Peace Cemetary.
8) "Hadassah" Southwestern Jewish Press, page
8: The regular monthly luncheon meeting of Hadasah will take place at 12:30 p.m.
on Wednesday, January 10th, at Temple Beth Israel. Highlighting American Affairs
Month, there will be a stimulating panel discussion ont he subject, "You
and World Crises."...Rabbi Morton J. Cohn, spiritual leader of Temple Beth
Israel, will discuss "You and Israel Today," for this struggling
democracy is of paramount interest for all of us...
January 19, 1951—1) "Beth Israel Annual Meeting
Hears Mr. Stone," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 1: Mr. John Stone,
Chairman of