This is a feature I’ve seen around on blogs and I decided to play at it myself.  So here are 10 Books (and Series, and Authors) That I Haven’t Read.

1. Any book in the Twilight series – I’ve made my feelings on this issue pretty clear.  It’s not anything personal, Twi-hards.
2. Any book in the Harry Potter series – That’s right, none of ‘em.  Even considering that I went to Western Michigan for my undergrad degree, which is one of the leading schools for the study of children’s lit, and even though I actually took a class in children’s lit while I was there.  (My prof for that class was more on the fairy tale end of the spectrum, so that’s what we read.  The Potter series was only about half-completed then anyway.)  I have been thinking about jumping into this, though, now that I have the time.  My question at this point is whether I want to spend a month and a half on the library waitlist for each book, or just blow $40 on the box set.  It’s not like I’d be stuck with them if I didn’t like them; they’d have instant resellability, I expect.  Or I could just read ‘em all and then give the set to my nephew.  He’s still a few years away from Harry Potter, so I would have the time.
3. The Grapes of Wrath – I went through a Steinbeck phase a few years ago, but it waned before I reached this one.  I do know, via anecdotal evidence from more than one person, that it has an incredibly slow start.  I imagine this is a book that twice as many people have started as finished.  (Jane Austen’s Emma is also one of these.)  I do have this book on my shelves already, though, so once my many reading challenges are disposed of, I have no reason not to pick it up.
4. The Adventures of Tom Sawyer – Tom Sawyer always felt to me like a kid’s book.  There’s a huge difference between “a kid’s book” and “a book about a kid,” and I know that.  To Kill a Mockingbird is a prime example of this, as is the book with which Mark Twain followed Tom Sawyer, Adventures of Huckleberry Finn (which I have read, which is considered by many to be the Great American Novel, and I could cautiously agree with that statement).  Still, I can’t shake the idea that Huck Finn is serious, real literature, and Tom Sawyer is tales of a loveable scamp, a 19^th century Dennis the Menace figure. Twain is brilliant and hilarious, though.  So maybe I should give it a shot?  Recommendations for or against are welcome.
5. The Invisible Man – I was “supposed” to read this at least twice in my lifetime, once in high school and once in college, and somehow I managed to avoid it both times.  I think it got shuffled off the syllabus in high school because of time, and I probably just skipped it in college.  (It happened sometimes.)  Anyway, it’s a major (maybe THE major) piece of contemporary African American literature, which happens to interest me a lot, and yet, there it sits, on my shelf, untouched.  Probably because it’s long and for sure painful.  The thing is, I love really bleak stuff—when I do read this, I’m sure I’ll find it mind-blowingly good—but that doesn’t stop me from sometimes avoiding the bleak stuff.
6. Anything by Tolkien – Not The Hobbit, none of the Lord of the Rings books.  They are so long and full of warriors and battles and mystical creatures whose names and attributes I would have to learn (another thing that put me off Harry Potter, by the way)—they are completely out of my realm.  No interest.  It’s hard to express that without getting a Tolkien fanboy (or fangirl, there are plenty of them, too) all up in your face about genre snobbism, but let me hasten to assure you that I don’t see it that way.  Fantasy just doesn’t appeal to me, the way Southern Gothic (which I love) doesn’t appeal to others.  I also don’t like tomatoes, or musicals, or roller coasters.  There’s nothing wrong with any of those things, either.
7. Ulysses / Finegan’s Wake – Ulysses is a modern retelling of The Odyssey.  I’ve read A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man at least three times… and that is where I always leave off with James Joyce.  His works get increasingly complex as you move along chronologically.  I fear that Ulysses is too structureless for me, that I will attempt to read it and scream, “Oh my God just DO SOMETHING.”  Finegan’s Wake, Joyce’s last work, is reputed to be even more incomprehensible.  (My favorite thing about Finegan’s Wake is the bit in The Bell Jar where Esther is attempting to write a thesis on it, and there’s this long nonsense word, and she counts the letters.  One hundred, she muses.  That probably means something. And that’s as far as she ever gets on the thesis.)
8. More than 10 pages of anything by Cormac McCarthy – It would seem that, unlike Tolkien, McCarthy is right up my alley.  I love that sort of dark, spare rural American gothic thing, and McCarthy is pretty much the living epitome of that right now.  But every time I try something by him, I get stopped in my tracks by his—let’s call it disinterest—his disinterest in providing narrative guideposts such as quotation marks that tell the reader when someone is speaking, or giving his characters names or the barest of identities.  Writers can over-explain, absolutely, and I like to figure things out for myself to a certain extent.  But McCarthys always push me right to that point of frustration–“WHAT IS GOING ON?”—where I quit.
9. More than 10 pages of anything by Joyce Carol Oates – Again, like McCarthy, Oates should be totally my bag.  Contemporary writer, specializes in mildly Gothic family drama.  She publishes approximately twenty books a decade.  Every time I try—I hate her.  Just hate, like viscerally hate.  There’s something about her prose that feels ugly to me.  And at some point I’ll have to try to finish something of hers, so that I can more fully develop what’s going on there—and maybe work through it—but I never have yet.
10. Anything by Stephen King – And AGAIN!  I STUDY CONTEMPORARY AMERICAN GOTHIC LITERATURE.  I have never read anything by Stephen King.  I don’t know, it just sort of passed me by somehow.  As a teenager I was in girlyworld with the Brontes and Austen (and F. Scott Fitzgerald, who is, for a male author, pleasantly girly in style).  As I got older, I don’t know.  I could have picked him up at any time, but there are a lot of factors at work here—more so than McCarthy or Oates.  King writes a column for Entertainment Weekly, for example.  King is a pop culture figure and, as such, has sometimes been dismissed as a pop culture writer—seen as more of a pulp fiction kind of guy.  I know that he has produced work that transcends that label, but, much like Oates, he’s also written A LOT, full stop.  And I know, again from anecdotal evidence, that the quality of his work varies pretty widely.  Also, some of it kind of veers over into science fiction and speculative fiction and apocalyptic fiction, and none of those things appeal to me.  I never knew where to start, basically, but I can say that I have recently committed myself to making a start: I bought The Shining.  I am going to read The Shining.  Soon.

And here are 5 Books I Have (Surprisingly) Read

1. Anna Karenina – I read this the summer of 2003, right after I graduated college.  It took me the ENTIRE summer.  It is long.  I remember very little about it, honestly, except that about ten chapters in I decided to switch translations because I believed that the first one I tried was awful, that “this” couldn’t possibly be the masterpiece Anna Karenina.  I was right; the second translation was miles better.  Also, I had to draw up a family tree to keep track of everyone’s relations to one another, what with all the multiple generations and the confusing patronymics.  (If a character is your brother he calls you by one name—if a character is your father he calls you by another.  And so on and so on and I was LOST.)  Plot-wise, there’s a pivotal horse race in the middle where Vronsky’s horse breaks its back and it’s a symbol for the way he’ll break Anna’s spirit.  That’s kind of an unforgettable moment.  The rest has sort of drifted away.  I don’t even remember reading about the Big Finish, Anna’s suicide by passenger train, which everybody kind of knows about, and which I knew to expect.  Maybe by then I was just counting down pages to the end.  Which is horrible to say; I am clearly a philistine.  But probably true.
2. A Clockwork Orange – I probably would never have picked it up myself, but my roommate from freshman year liked it and lent it to me.  The story was not particularly surprising—even though I hadn’t seen the movie yet, I had heard enough about it to know where things were headed and how they were going to get there.  What’s crazily interesting about the book is the slang that Burgess invented, an amalgam of British hipster-speak and old Russian, and how quickly it can be picked up.  The first chapter I was basically mystified, and thought about keeping a glossary, but by the second chapter—as if a switch had been flipped—the dialogue started to make perfect sense.  It was like foreign language immersion, it just worked.  So that was really interesting.
3. Dear Theo: The Letters of Vincent Van Gogh – I bought this sprawling tome at a Van Gogh exhibit I saw in Detroit back in the early aughts.  I’m not sure if I thought I was actually going to read it or not, but then I actually did one summer while I was working in Kalamazoo.  I was a receptionist then without a ton of real responsibility, and I can remember devoting hours at my desk to Dear Theo, while I waited for the phone to ring or someone to need something.  Theo was Vincent’s brother, a relatively successful businessman (art dealer, I think) who stayed in the Netherlands while Vincent moved down into the South of France, and they corresponded regularly until Vincent’s death. I remember the book as actually being incredibly compelling (very well-arranged by Irving Stone, who wrote the reigning Van Gogh biography, Lust for Life) and painting a vivid picture of the frustration, sadness and mental illness that all combined to drive Vincent to suicide.  Interesting things about Van Gogh: he had no interest in painting for public consumption.  He had an agent (Theo also sometimes acted as his agent) who was continually encouraging him to take on commissions from rich people to do their portraits so that he could finance the work he wanted to do.  He would not.  He wanted to paint whores and children and his mailman, because they inspired him, paintings that no one would buy because they didn’t look beautiful or lavish.  He also spent an unimaginable amount of time sketching his work before he painted it.  Sometimes he would go an entire year without putting paint to canvas because he was still working things out on paper.  Again, his agent tried to dissuade him from this practice because nobody buys sketches.  Because he was so committed to this non-lucrative work process, Vincent was frequently starving and lost almost all his teeth to malnutrition and lack of medical care.  When Vincent cut off his ear, he took it to a house of prostitution that he knew; most people know that.  What this book told me is that he caused quite a stir when he got there, but was too disoriented to leave on his own, so the women called on his dear friend Paul Gauguin to take him away.  Gauguin led Vincent home and immediately wrote to Theo, probably some variation on “Dude, get down here, your brother is LOSING IT.”
4. Moby Dick – A lot of people think they should read this book but don’t, because they are scared off by its length, by its reputation, by its presumed erudition.  I would totally be one of these people except for the fact that I took a class for which I had to read it (the Early American Novel, WMU, 2008).  I did recently read an incredibly interesting point of view on the many, many, many digressions in the book, from Linda Holmes at Monkey See, who chose the book as one of her “I Will If You Will” book club selections last winter.  She suggested that—seeing as the book is being narrated by Ishmael after the fact, perhaps he is exhibiting a simple unwillingness to get to the end.  “Ishmael, what happened when your ship went after the white whale?”  “Well, we—hey, speaking of whales, did you know that their skeletal structure…?”  An awesome insight that I really wish was mine.  I don’t know if anyone has done the article on “Ishmael’s Trauma Narrative,” yet, but if you do, you should clear it with Linda first.  So, the real questions: do I value Moby Dick as literature?  Yes, absolutely.  Do I enjoy it as literature?  Not particularly, although the pre-ship parts, when Ishmael is banging around the whaling town trying to figure out what he’s going to do, are largely entertaining.  (Gotta love that Queequeg.)  Do I view it as a badge of honor that I made it through?  Of course.  In short, it is better to be a person who has read Moby Dick than it is to be a person who is reading Moby Dick.
5. The Nanny Diaries – Ha, opposite end of the spectrum!  I don’t read a lot of mainstream fiction, but I did pick up this book of my own volition, and I did like it well enough.  It didn’t blow me away, and I had sympathy for all the wrong characters, I think.  Like the kid’s mom, Mrs. X.  OK, she has her priorities all out of whack—but she’s clearly been acculturated to it, and also her husband is the real villain.  Remember the scene where she’s trying on outfits for their anniversary and asking the nanny’s advice?  She seems so human in that moment (and of course, the bastard lets her down).  Anyway, the book was funny enough and it was a nice break from the senior year finals being held the week that I read it.

Dupa ce am petrecut 2 saptamani cu Michelangelo, aproape zi de zi in agonie sau pe culmile extazului, am fost foarte trista ca povestea si opera noastra a luat sfarsit. Nimeni n-a iubit marmura mai mult ca noi si nu i-a daruit suflet, dragoste si viata din noi.

In diminetile racoroase de toamna, in autobuzul spre birou, il sculptam impreuna pe David, faceam schite pentru Pieta sau mergeam sa discutam cu Papii despre noul nostru proiect iar serile, ah, serile pictam Capela Sixtina, ne gandeam la Contessina sau la Vittoria.

Irving Stone chiar m-a prins cum nici o alta scriere din ultima vreme nu mi-a adus atata bucurie. Agonie si Extaz este o carte remarcabila, dedicata unui artist extraordinar.

Este foarte emotionant sa traiesti si sa urmaresti cum se deruleaza viata lui Michelangelo Buonarroti, plina de creativitate, furie, dragoste, putere si motivatie pentru a duce la bun sfarsit ceea ce iubeste.

O viata intreaga este dedicata desenului, picturii, sculpturii si arhitecturii, mereu descoperind lucruri noi despre ceea ce poti face si cum poti aduce elemente dintr-o arta pentru a face lucruri minunate intr-o alta.

Felul in care poti crea oameni si vietati din marmura, cum poti face sa pulseze caldura, viata si dragostea intr-o constructie inghetata mi se pare remarcabil.

Si dupa ce am vazut cu ochii mei Pieta Rondanini a lui Michelangelo, aflata in Muzeul Castelului Sforzesco din  Milano, plus toti oamenii impietriti ce spirjina si decoreaza cladirile renasterii,  picturile si tapiseriile de dimensiuni extraordinare, imi dau seama ca artistii renasterii au trait, au mancat, au baut si-au respirat arta.

Donatello, Brunelleschi, Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Francesco Granacci si sponsori  precum Lorenzo de Medici sau papa Iulius al II-lea sunt figuri importante a doua secole (XV-XVI) de istorie, religie si arta reuniti intr-o singura poveste despre spiritul uman si eterna cautare a frumosului si perfectiunii.

Cred ca n-am invatat nimic mai pretios in ultima vreme despre mine si despre ceilalti, ca ceea ce am desprins din paginile astea: sa ramai increzator si fidel scopurilor tale, sa-ti pastrezi pasiunea si daruirea chiar daca o lume intreaga iti este impotriva. Exista cicluri si ce nu te omoara chiar te face mai puternic pentru ca, universul chiar conspira la indeplinirea planurilor tale iar uneori nici nu-ti dai seama de cat de importanta va fi contributia ta la bunul mers al lucrurilor.

Finally, after much procrastination, I’m starting a new book.  Not just proclaiming it, not just thinking about getting around to it, but really working on it.  I’m always excited about the prospect of a new project … until I actually have to start it.  Then I loathe it.  Why?  Because the beginning process of a novel is difficult.  It forces me to stop goofing off and plant my backside in my desk chair.  I have to think about plot, not in some vague formless way, but specifically in terms of how I’m going to set up the first scene, how I’m going to introduce — or re-introduce — characters, and how I’m going to get the plot rolling.  It means that while I’m thinking, evaluating, criticizing, and trying my best to come up with terrific ideas while simultaneously poking holes in them, I may also be writing a draft of the opening scene.  Maybe not the scene in its entirety.  Maybe just a scene fragment.  Chances are the draft will be deleted, but it’s a way to figure out what might work and what won’t.

It means the story and characters are going to start haunting me, taking up my thoughts, disrupting me from remembering some key point to a lecture I’m about to give at the university.  It means that I could become a hazard in traffic, because when I’m really plotting hard in my head I sometimes pull into my garage with no conscious memory of anything I passed while driving home.  It means that I’m going to be cranky, because I always get short-tempered and irritable when I’m starting a book.  I’ve accepted that.  It’s part of my personal creative process.  But it’s hard on my family, dogs, and … students.

(Okay, the students can take care of themselves.  The dogs don’t deserve it.)

Marriage Told

Announcement has been made of the marriage of Ben Snyder of San Diego to Dorothy Ethel Shefrin, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Isaac Palmer of Santa Monica on January 30^th. The couple will reside at 1601 Ninth Ave. in San Diego.

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Bar Mitzvah
Southwestern Jewish Press, March 4, 1955, Page 3

On March 11^th, Frederick Michael Stein, son of Mr. and Mrs. Sigmund Stein, will be Bar Mitzvah at Temple Beth Israel. Services will begin at 8 p.m.

Mr. and Mrs. Stein will be host and hostess at the reception following. Friends are invited to attend.  (No invitations have been mailed).

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Personals
Southwestern Jewish Press, March 4, 1955, Page 3

Donald Goldman will put aside his corporal’s stripes and settle down to studies at S.D. Junior College. Donald has just returned after two years service in the Army.

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Mrs. Israel Lebb wishes to express her thanks to her friends and the Pioneer Women, Negba Club, for presenting her with a “Garden of Trees” in honor of her contemplated trip to Israel on March 16^th.

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The always-ready, helping hands of Blanche Stein and her mother-in-law, Mrs. Osip Tarr, will be missed by San Diego philanthropic organizations. The Tarrs and the Sigmund Steins are opening the North Las Vegas Drug Company in Las Vegas. The best wishes of the community go with them.

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Psychologist Irving Stone is very busy these days getting all the gold braid and scrambled eggs necessary for his promotion to Commander in the Medical Services Corps. of the U.S. Naval Reserve.

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Dr. A.P. Nasatir will be in Stockton on March 19^th to deliver a lecture at the College of the Pacific on the California Historical Foundation.

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Dr. Walter Ornstein and Zel Camiel have been named to the National Council of United HIAS service, the Jewish international migration agency.

Both men are long-time workers with the new American group in San Diego.

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S.D. Women Send Care Packages to Israel
Southwestern Jewish Press, March 4, 1955, Page 3

Eight women, who meet each Friday for luncheon and a social afternoon, have quietly been sending CARE packages to needy families in Israel.  The “Friday Club” made at least 45 needy families happy last year through their interest.

Ida Nasatir, who receives on an average of 80 request letters a year, supplies the names of the families to the group.  The “Friday Club” does not neglect local needs and are generous contributors to the Blind Group, the Heart Fund and the Polio Campaign. The eight members are Do Kronick, Frances Sklar, Mae Kornbluth, Frances Gordon, Stella Sarfan, Bess Snyder, June Drexler and Mollie Ratner.

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Birdie Stodel Women
Southwestern Jewish Press, March 4, 1955, Page 3

B’nai B’rith Birdie Stodel Chapter No. 92 will hold their regular meeting on Monday, March 14 at the Beth Jacob Center at 12:00 o’clock.  A very delicious luncheon will be served.

Nomination of officers will be held at this time. The nominating committee chaired by Mrs. Ted Brav will present a slate of officers to be voted on.  Nominations will be taken from the floor.

All members are asked to attend the B’nai B’rith testimonial dinner given in honor of Carl Esenoff, Past President of B’nai B’rith, to be held on March 18.

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Founders Day Set by Bay City B.B.’s
Southwestern Jewish Press, March 4, 1955, Page 3

In celebration of their Fifth Anniversary, the Bay City Chapter is planning a Founders’ Day Luncheon at which time they will honor every Jewish woman’s organization in San Diego.  Invitations have been issued to over 20 groups to participate in the program and it is hoped that a much better understanding of the respective groups will result.

The Mission Valley Country Club will be the locale on Wednesday, March 30^th, at 12 noon.  Mrs. Harold Garvin has been appointed chairman of the event.

Although the incumbent and charter presidents will be the guest of the Chapter, Mrs. Jack Meyers, President, extends a most cordial invitation to the entire community to attend this outstanding event.

Reservations may be made with Mrs. Garvin, CO 2-11202; Mrs. Murray Samuels, JU -2-7051.

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Beth Jacob Rummage Sale
Southwestern Jewish Press, March 4, 1955, Page 3

The Beth Jacob Sisterhood will hold its Rummage Sale on March 21, 22, and 23^rd, at the Beth Jacob Synagogue 4472-30^th.

Chairman Mrs. Robt. Strauss announced that hundreds of articles, used and new, will be offered to the public at very nominal prices.

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Cradle
Southwestern Jewish Press, March 4, 1955, Page 3

“Just what we wanted,” is how the Martin Siegel family of Northridge, Calif., feel about Rochelle Lee, who arrived on Sunday, Feb. 27^th.  The Siegels have a son, Michael David, aged two and one-half years.

San Diego paternal grandparents are Mr. and Mrs. Robert Siegel; maternal grandparents are Mr. and Mrs. Abraham Holtzman of Los Angeles; great grandmother Sophie Weiss lives in Brooklyn, N.Y.

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Classified
Southwestern Jewish Press, March 4, 1955, Page 3

Wanted – Middle-aged woman to share nice apartment for companionship. North Park. Call AT 4-2798.

Gardener – No need for your garden to be neglected. Help is as far as your telephone.  Phone BE 4-4353 or BE 3-8393.

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Calendar
Southwestern Jewish Press, March 4, 1955, Page 3

5^th –Sat, 8 p.m.–Pioneer Purim Ball – Beth Jacob Center
6^th—Sun – 7:30 p.m – Jewish Artists – Jewish Labor Comm.—Beth Jacob Center
6^th—Sun, 7 p.m. – T.Y.L’s Purim Party – Temple House.
8^th—Tues, 8 p.m. – Panel Discussion –“Marital Problems” – City of Hope Jr. Aux – T.L. Center
10^th—Thurs, noon – Purim Luncheon—City of Hope – Beth Jacob Center.
13^th — Sun, 5:30 p.m. – Daughters of Israel Purim Dinner and Package Party – T.I. Center
15^th – Tues. eve – Dr. Raanan Weitz – Tifereth Israel Center.
16^th—Wed., 6:30 p.m. – Testimonial Dinner, Carl Esenoff, San Diego Hotel
27^th—Sun., 6:30 p.m. – Annual Dance of Bay City B.B. Women – Mission C.C.
30^th – Wed., 12 noon – “Founder’s Day” Luncehon – Bay City B.B. Women – Mission C.C.

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Beth Jacob News
Southwestern Jewish Press, March 4, 1955, Page 4

Purim Observed in the Synagogue – The Purim Festival this year falls on Tuesday, March 8. The traditional reading of the Megillah will take place on Monday, March 7 at 5:45 p.m. and Tuesday morning at 7:00 a.m.  Children attending these services will receive groggers (noisemakers) to deafen Hamen during the Megillah reading. It is an old Jeish tradition to exchange gifts among friends, known as “Sh’lo-ach Monos.”

P.T.A. To Sponsor Purim Carnival – On Sunday, March 6, from 10 to 12 a.m. (sic, p.m.) the PTA will sponsor a Purim Carnival for the children of our Sunday and Weekday Religious School.

All children will wear costumes. There will be games and booths and delicious refreshments.

Co-chairmen Ronnie Weisman and Hope Solomon are working hard to make this event a success.  We hope you will join us in the joyous Purim spirit and bring your friends to the Carnival on March 6.

Youth Advisor Appointed – We wish to thank Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Schwartz, Youth Group advisors, for the notable contribution they made to our Youth League, and are happy to announce the appointment of Ed Goldsmith as the new Youth Group Advisor.  Ed Goldsmith is a professional teacher and is also on our Sunday School staff.

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Lasker Lodge News
Southwestern Jewish Press, March 4, 1955, Page 4

By Lou Levitt

Every member of B’nai B’rith should feel obligated to attend the fine tribute to Carl Esenoff on March 16th.

Jack Spatz, Membership Retention Chairman, informs us that more than 50% of the lodge have already paid their 1955 dues.  Gold menorah cards will be given for another 30 days to those who pay their dues. At the last regular meeting a jack pot drawing was started that will qualify any paid upo member in attendance at the meeting to win.  Last week’s prize was won by a very surprised Dr. Jerry Kopernick.
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Jewish Center News
Southwestern Jewish Press, March 4, 1955, Page 4

The spirit of Purim will prevail at the Center during the holiday week. On Tuesday, March 8^th, the Young Adult Group will entertain with a Purim Party – “A Hamen-tash Koffee Klotch” with dancing, special entertainment to make the evening a festive one.  All young people between the ages of 21 and 30 are invited.

The Junior High Group and the Cooperative Nursery will also carry out the Purim theme during their regular activities.

Plans are going forward to stimulate greater interest in the various Center activities. Last week, a special meeting of a committee of parents of the teenage group was held in order to bring about a closer relationship between the parents and the teen-agers with relation to the program.  It was agreed to have parents serve as volunteers on Thursday. Those who volunteered to assist in this capacity were Mesdames Rose Aved, Henry Gardner and Max Kaufman.  Mr. and Mrs. Al Hutler will have a meeting soon in their home at which time all parents of the boys and girls of this group will be invited. It is, thus, hoped to develop a rotating group of parent volunteers to assist with this very important program.

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City of Hope
Southwestern Jewish Press, March 4, 1955, Page 4

City of Hope Auxiliary invites you to the Beth Jacob Center on Thursday, March 10^th, at 12 noon to enjoy a lunch prepared by Chairmen, Gladys Tappan and Rose Barr (with home-made Homen-Tashen) and spend a pleasant social afternoon with your friends!  We’d love to have you!

Please phone Anna Lazarowitz, Rummage Chairman – BE 9 4831 for pickups.

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Deceased
Southwestern Jewish Press, March 4, 1955, Page 4

Israel Lebb, 68, of 2009 28^th St., passed away on Sunday evening, February 16^th.  Interment was at the Home of Peace Cemetery.

Mr. Lebb was a member of the Beth Jacob Congregation and Men’s Club; Poale Zion and B’nai B’rith.

He is survived by his widow, Florence; two sons, Harry and Joseph; two daughters, Mrs. Edith Haimovitch and Miss Anna Lebb; two step-sons, Milton and Wm. Kraft and a step-daughter, Mrs. Sylvia Shulkind.

The family of Irael Lebb wish to thank everyone who showed them kindness during their recent bereavement.

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A.Z.A. News
Southwestern Jewish Press, March 4, 1955, Page 4

At the February meeting of the San Diego. A.Z.A., it was decided that the chapter needed more baseball players for their new baseball team. Now is the time for volunteers to sign up for early Spring training.

Besides baseball, A.Z.A sponsors a basketball league and an annual track meet. Members of A.Z.A. also have an opportunity to take part in various speech and debate tournaments throughout the country, inter-faith and community service activities, and a broad social program.

“With a new pledge class starting,” Says Aleph Godol, Steve Goldfarb, “this is a good time for interested boys between the ages of 14 and 21 to join A.Z.A.”  For information regarding meeting dates, Steve’s number is AC -2-3384.

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Adventures in San Diego Jewish History” is sponsored by Inland Industries Group LP in memory of long-time San Diego Jewish community leader Marie (Mrs. Gabriel) Berg. Our “Adventures in San Diego Jewish History” series will be a regular feature until we run out of history.  To find stories on specific individuals or organizations, type their names in our search box.

Flash!
Southwestern Jewish Press, March 4, 1955, Page 1

Kirk Douglas to address United Jewish Campaign Fund “Kickoff” Dinner slated for April 2^nd.

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Jewish Artists To Entertain at Beth Jacob Center
Southwestern Jewish Press, March 4, 1955, Page 1

Three superb Jewish artists will give an outstanding performance this Sunday, at the Beth Jacob Center, 4473 30^th St., at 8:30 p.m.  Sponsored by the Jewish Labor Committee in an attempt to bring the finest of Jewish music, drama and humor to San Diego, the group hopes to preserve the great traditions of the European stage.

The artists include Dora Kalnowna, from Brazil, who made a great name in Warsaw singing in Hebrew and Yiddish; Shmuel Fisher, called the Jewish Charlie Chaplin, who has lived in Israel since 1930.  His humor and song are unique.  Pola Kadison, the renowned concert pianist has appeared in many cities in the United States.  She has been acclaimed as one of the finest interpreters of folk music.

For an evening of nostalgic Jewish humor, drama and song, call Ben Feinberg at BE 2-5525 or BE 3-3524, or Morris Penn, HU 8-5906, and make your reservations for Sunday, March 6, and an unforgettable evening.

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Dr. Walter Ornstein Elected To Head Jewish Welfare Agency
Southwestern Jewish Press, March 4, 1955, Pages 1, 5

Dr. Walter Ornstein was elected  president of the Board of directors of the Jewish Social Service Agency at the February meeting of the board.  He will succeed Harry Mallen who served as president for the past three years.

Other officers elected to serve with Dr. Ornstein are: Irving Stone, first vice-president; Mrs. Milton Roberts, second vice president; Mrs. Jack Rittoff, secretary; William Colt, treasurer.

New Board members chosen at the recent annual meeting are Carl Friend, Dr. Harry Ruja, Mrs Leo Sarfan, Mrs. Jack Stern, and David Zwanziger. They will serve along with Zel Camiel, Mrs. Avram Dickman, Dr. George Hermann, Edward Janowsky, Dr. Seymour Kuntz, Mrs. Esther Kupperberg, Mrs. Joseph Kwint, Harry Mallen, Mrs. Anna Peckarsky, Dr. Phillip Rand, Mrs. Elmser Wohl. Mrs. Rose Neuman(n) is an honorary member of the board.  The agency is supported by the Community Chest of San Diego and the San Diego Federation of Jewish Agencies,. It is also a member agency of the Family and Child Welfare Division of the Community Welfare Council.
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B’nai B’rith Honors Carl Esenoff at Dinner Mar. 16
Southwestern Jewish Press, March 4, 1955, Pages 1, 78

Eight hundred men and women members of San Diego’s B’nai B’rith will honor Carl M. Esenoff, local community oleader on the evening of Wednesday, March 16, at the San Diego Hotel.

Mr. Esenoff will be presented with a testimonial at the dinner to be held in the Continental Room at 6:30 p.m. for “Americanism in Civic Affairs,” by the B’nai B’rith Lodges and Chapters and the Anti-Defamation League. Chairman for the evening are M. D. Goodrich and Edward A. Breitbard.

Religious, civic and political leaders of San Diego have accepted honorary chairmanship for the testimonial dinner. These include Admiral Wilder D. Baker, President, Community Chest; Anderson Borthwick; John D. Butler; Robert M. Golden; Ewart Goodwin; Graydon Hoffman; Lucius Johnson; George Renter; George Scott; Thomas Selton; Alan J. Sutherland; Herny Weinberger and Judge Jacob Weinberger.

Milton Senn, Director of the Pacific Southwest Region of the Anti-Defamation League, and an acknowledged leader in the Pacific Southwest in the field of human relations and in the fight against anti-Semitism, will be the principal speaker.

The B’nai B’rith Coordinating Council in the announcement made by Stanley Yukon, President, stated that they have selected Mr. Esenoff to be honored because of the many activities on behalf of all communities’ efforts.

Esenoff has been President of the San Diego Federation of Jewish Agencies since its inception four years ago; is a Past President of the Community Welfare Council of San Diego; a leader in the Community Chest; Past President of the Jewish Social Service Agency; a member of the Board of the United Jewish Fund; and the San Diego Hebrew Home for the Aged; as well as a director and participant in many other community activities. He is recognized in his profession as one of San Diego’s leading Certified Public Accountants as is indicated by his service on many C.P.A. committees, locally, regionally and nationally.

B’nai Brith Lodges and Chapters of San Diego stressed that the testimonial dinner was part of its participation and support of the United Jewish Fund campaign in 1955 and are urging all members to attend.  B’nai B’rith agencies which are beneficiaries of the United Jewish Fund include the Anti-Defamation League, Hillel Foundations, Youth Organizations of AZA and BBG, the Vocational Service and Leo N. Levi Memorial Hospital in Hot Springs, Arkansas.

All pledges made to the United Jewish Fund at the testimonial dinner will be dedicated to Carl M. Esenoff and be known in the campaign as the Carl M. Esenoff Fund.

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To Lead Drive
Southwestern Jewish Press, March 4, 1955, Pages 1, 7

Brotherhood Week was celebrate by the United  Jewish Fund with the appointment of Anderson Borthwick, president of the First National Trust and Savings Bank of San Diego as the chairman of the Christian Committee of the 1955 United Jewish Fund Campaign.

In accepting responsibility for leadership in the 1955 United Jewish Fund Campaign to raise $220,000, Mr. Borthwick said, “I have accepted this chairmanship, although I have many other businesses and civic duties, because as a member of this committee from its very inception, some ten years ago, I have learned of the tremendous life-saving work that the agencies which are beneficiaries of the Fund have done throughout the world. As a Christian, I sincerely want to be a part of this great humanitarian effort which has the outstanding record of having aided more than 2,000,000 destitute and helpless people wherever they may be found.  The United Jewish Fund is a humanitarian cause deserving the wholehearted support of the entire community. To me the participation of Christians in this work of saving lives carried on by the agencies of the United Jewish Fund is brotherhood in the most meaningful sense.”

Borthwick is president of the First National Trust and Savings Bank, the San Diego Harbor Commission and the Rees-Stealy Clinic Research Foundation.  He is director of the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, the Young Men’s Christian Association, the San Diego Convention and Tourist Bureau, San Diego California Club, San Diego Hospital Association, American Cancer Society, the Downtown Association and many other organizations.

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Sid Posen Resigns as Center Exec.
Southwestern Jewish Press, March 4, 1955, Pages 1, 5

Edward Breitbard, Jewish Community Center president, announced the resignation of Sidney Posin as Center Director as of February 15, 1955.

Posin, who has been in charge of Center activities for the last two years, left to accept a position as Director of the group work division of San Diego’s Community Welfare Division. In this position he will be responsible for the studies and surveys regarding recreation and leisure  time activities in San Diego as well as planning in this field.

The Center Board in a resolution favoring central administration of local Jewish agencies, has appointed Albert A. Hutler, Executive Director of the Federation of Jewish Agencies to act as Executive Director of the Jewish Community Center.

The personnel committee with Maxwell Kaufman as chairman are now interviewing applicants for the position of Assistant Director of the Center and hope to secure personnel before June 1^st.  Breitbard announced that activities will continue as usual at the center and that plans are under way for expansion of the programming.

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U.J.F. Top Leaders Accept Campaign Jobs
Southwestern Jewish Press, March 4, 1955, Pages 1, 7

Top organization in the United Jewish Fund 1955 campaign structure was almost completed last week with appointment of David Sapp and Edward Breitbard as vice-chairmen of the campaign.

Campaign Chairman Max Rabinowitz, in making the announcement said that other top community leaders had accepted key spots in the campaign organization.

He also announced that the campaign would be “kicked-off” at a dinner on Saturday, April 2, at the El Cortez Hotel with Kirk Douglas as the guest of honor.

Rabinowitz, in bringing two young leaders to the forefront to aid him in the $220,000 drive, said, “The campaign leadership of these young men whould provide the dynamics needed to conduct an all out effort in the drive.”

Breitbard, local laundry executive is an experience campaigner and community worker having served in various campaign capacities in the past. He has a wide range of welfare activities, President of the Jewish Community Center, Past President of Tifereth Israel Congregation, a Director of the Federation of Jewish Agencies and the United Jewish Fund, and vice president of the Breitbard Athletic Foundation.

Comparatively a short time in San Diego, David Sapp, construction executive, and vice president of Sapp Brothers Construction Company, has given outstanding service to the community.  He is a board member of the Fund, the Hebrew Home for the Aged, and the Community Center.

In filling other top positions, Rabinowitz announced the formation of an Emergency Committee with Carl M. Esenoff, M.D. Goodrich, Rodin Horrow, Irvine Kahn, Louis Moorsteen, Henry Price, Sol Price, Victor Schulman and Ruben Umansky.  Most are former chairmen of campaigns.

Harry Snyder, Fund Treasurer, and Albert Steinbaum, San Diego Hotel operator and a vice-presidentof the Fund, will head the Advance Gifts division.

The “Incentive Group” Committee, which included solicitation and participation of all local agencies and National organizations in San Diego that are beneficiaries of the drive, will be headed by Harry Mallen, past president of the Jewish Social Service Agency and Ruben Umansky, Histadrut leader.

William Colt, locker club operator and Harry Wax, San Diego Janitor Supply, will furnish the leadership for the Business and Trade Division.

Four top professional people will lead the Professional division in Dr. Joshua Rittoff, Chairman, and Dr. Walter Ornstein, Edward Baranov, Certified Public Accountant, and Norman Seltzer, Attorney.

County areas will be organized by Ben Carnot of La Jolla and Alex Maisel of Escondido, both outstanding campaign workers.  Nathan Golden of Tijuana has accepted responsibility for solicitation in Tijuana and Ensenada.

Magic Carpet Day will be under the direction of Bernard Arenson, and Ida Wax. Mrs. Wax has participated in many campaigns in leadership capacity.  Arenson is in his first major post.

Women’s Division Post will be announced in the near future according to Rabinowitz.  All other positions will be filled within the coming week.

Top chairmen will constitute the Campaign Cabinet, which will act in an advisory capacity to Rabinowitz, Sapp and Breitbard in the conduct of the campaign. The Cabinet will include Morris Douglas, Fund President; Milton Y. Roberts, vice-president; M.S. Fisher, Secretary.

Also, Mrs. Gabriel Berg, Mack Esterson, Maury Novak, Seymour Rabin, William Schwartz, Mitlon Fredman, and Zel Camiel.  Women chairmen will be added when announced.

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Purim – Feast of Lots (Editorial)
Southwestern Jewish Press, March 4, 1955, Page 2

Purim, jolliest of the Jewish holidays, begins at sunset, Monday, March 7. The holiday commemorates a grim episode from Biblical history but its observance has always been marked by a July-Fourth like gaiety. Basis of the holiday is the overthrow of the Persian tyrant, Haman, who sought to have all men bow down to him.  When Mordecai refused because his Jewishness forbade hm to worship any but God, Haman sought to destroy the Jewish people. The Scriptural Book of Esther recounts how the Jews were saved through the intervention of beauteous Queen Esther.

Synagogal commemoration of the holiday includes the offering of special prayers on behalf of human freedom plus music and sermons devoted to the same theme.

Although the festival lasts but one day, preparations for the holiday begin months in advance. In religious schools, plays, pageants, mock beauty contests, and masquerades mark the occasion.  One Purim requirement, stated in Scriptures, is the giving of gifts to the poor so that the spirit of gladness may be widespread The Queen Esther Ball, held annually by the Pioneer Women this Saturday, helps preserve this delightful holiday.

The word, Purim, pronounced, Poor-im means Lots, and refers to the casting of lots through which Haman sought to determine the date of his intended massacre.

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Turn About (Editorial)
Southwestern Jewish Press, March 4, 1955, Page 2

Very quietly last month, without causing a ripple, something happened that made no headlines and was hardly reported. We were all too busy with the atom bomb and Formosa.  But what happened was as important as any single event during the last decade.

The U.S. Government repudiated its historic position under which heads of enemy nations at the end of the last war, were hanged or punished for the crimes of war. Without benefit of debate in Congress or an explanation to the people, the Government reversed itself on the principle that not nations but individuals made war and therefore accept the responsibility.

The laws initiated at Nuremberg, under which the Nazi leaders were punished were drawn up with the aid of Britain, France and Russia. These laws were to be incorporated into the United Nations Charter as an aid to keeping world law and order. We were to use these laws as a warning to those reckless leaders who might be tempted to take nations into another blood bath.

On November 17, 1954, Charles H. Mahoney, U.S. representative to the United Nations, explained our position to that group.  He stated that “the project for a code of crimes under international law in today’s world is impractical and inappropriate.”  He also said that “the U.S. did not wish to subject its citizens to those regular and continuing processes of investigation, prosecution and trial, by international agencies, which would be necessary for real enforcement of an international code.”

Impractical?  Must we wait until a billion human lives are destroyed before we decide something should be done about the principal of individual responsibility?  Is it practical to construct an elaborate legal mechanism in the name of justice and then turn away from it when it fails to serve our purpose?

Inappropriate?  Is there anything more inappropriate than to be guilty of a double standard in the eyes of the world.

Speaking of individual responsibility, we do not believe that laws formulated by four major nations, after careful study and consideration, should be reversed in the name of the people of the United States without the matter being brought before their elected representatives in the government.

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Candidates State Views on Religion in the Schools
Southwestern Jewish Press, March 4, 1955, Page 2

The Jewish Press asked the three candidates for the Board of Education in the coming election vital questions relating to the separation of Church and State.

“The state law now allows the Bible to be read in the schoolroom but no interpretation can be made. This is as far as I think the school should go and I would only favor that if there’s no objectijon from any parent.

“When I was a child, my parents read the Bible to us every day with whatever explanations they wanted to make.  I think it is the responsibility of the home to teach religion to their children. The schools are doing a fine job integrating moral and spiritual values into the whole curriculum from kindergarten through Junior College. These values are the basis for any religion.  Gideon New Testaments are now distributed to high school seniors at graduation time. They may take them or not. I believe all other faiths should have the same privilege of distributing their Bibles.

“I do not favor ‘Released Time for Religious Education.’  It was tried experimentally in ten of our elementary schools for one year and was not considered successful by a majority of those concerned.”   – Mary L. Fay.

“Before making direct answers to the three important questions asked, I would  like to express my feelings in a more general way. Since the citizens of our great country are divided into three major religious groups who hold very sacred their different faiths, principles and beliefs, I feel the Board of Education should adopt policies which would not in any way infringe on the religions of any of the children intrusted to their care. Teaching of religion is not a proper function of the public schools, but it is the obligation of the home and the church, and should be left to them. 

“In spite of the above statements, I feel keenly that our public schools cannot carry out their function of education in their most effective manner without recognizing the importance of spiritual and moral obligations of the students.

“It is my feeling that benedictions at graduations, dedications, et cetera, play a more important part I these programs than most people realize.  Likewise, I feel that a school day started with a simple prayer, recognizing and asking for Divine guidance, tends to create a greater respect and better relationships between students and teacher.

“It is also my belief that any teachers wishing to substitute a passage from the Bible for the above prayer should be allowed to do so, provided she confines herself to the Old Testament and that it should be read without comment. I feel that this should be the limit of the use of the Bible in the public schools.

“A few years ago the Board of Education and the religious leaders of our community made a complete and thorough study of the subject of released time for religious training. Their conclusion was that training of this kind should be done outside of school hours.  I concur in this finding.

Recently, the Board of Education requested a legal opinion from the District Attorney relative to the matter of Gideon Bibles in schools.  I shall be guided by the decision of the District Attorney which, at this writing, has not been received.”

–Robert C. Dent

“It is my sincere intention to be absolutely fair and unbiased representing to the best of my ability all the people of this city.  Our public schools will remain the foundation of our freedom only so long as they uphold American fundamentals.  I shall seek, therefore, to sustain in spirit as well as letter the Separation of Church and State.  The constitutionality of Bible reading in public schools, according to Attorney General Pat Brown, is awaiting court decision.

“If that decision favors Bible reading, my thought now, subject to later revision, is that the Bible in its entirety, as part of the rich cultural heritage of this nation, if used without comment and without prejudice to any race or religion, could be included to good advantage in our schools in such times as these; providing, of course, that the same privilege is accorded to other inspiring literary works.

“Since Released Time has been recently tried and after a year withdrawn, it is not an issue so far as my own campaign is concerned.  I am running for the School Board as a man, experienced in business, with a taxpayer’s point of view; who is also trained in Education; and vitally concerned in moral and ethical standards of conduct, I am not running to promote either my own or anybody’s religious faith.

“If a majority of people desire Released Time and so indicate, I feel that I should approve it if convinced at that time that it could be practically carried out with fairness to all relgions, and non-religious groups, as well.”

–Frank Lowe

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Bnai Brith Briefs
Southwestern Jewish Press, March 4, 1955, Page 2

By Morrie Kraus

By way of note – I can hardly believe it myself, hammering out this colum for The Press after all these many years. But that old adage about printer’s ink still holds good and this will be my own mall way of making Mickey Fredman’s row a little easier to hoe.  Too many people in San Diego do not really know what B’nai B’rith is, what it does, how it does what it does, when, where and why.  As a matter of fact, this goes for many of its own members. If this column can in an informative way bring “home” to you the largest and oldest Jewish service organization in the world, then I will have been of service to the organization, the community.

*

The international scene – B’nai B’rith is making rapid progress in Great Britain, particularly after the establishment of Hillel at the University of London, which proved to be the greatest event of many years in Anglo-Jewish life in that city. (Reminds me of when Hillel was instituted at San Diego State College back in 1947.  Godaink?)

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Leo N. Levi Hospital – The hospital has bene put in fine physical shape by a complete renovation. It has been fire-proofed and a new recreation hall built costing $40,000.  Patients from 28 states are being treated. Of the patients, 45% are non-Jewish. Staff morale is very high.  Only weakness of the hospital is I the research department  due naturally to NSF.  (Allocation committee, please note.)

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Monsky Foundation – Tourists visiting Washington, D.C. in 1956 will be able to see the new B’nai B’rith building now being erected. The structure will house all the available memos of the Jewish contribution to the growth of this country, including collections of many sorts besides the arts. The value of having our heritage and its influence upon this country’s progress impressed on the “outside” world will be priceless.  By next month the fund will exceed one million dollars. Our District Four is committed for $25,000, fifteen of which is already paid.

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Crusade for Freedom – Members of our lodges and chapters are joining millions of other Americans this month in the annual Crusade for Freedom campaign to continue the fight against Communism behind the Iron Curtain itself.  The Crusade supports Radio Free Europe, which beams powerful messages through the Iron Curtain and sends “truth balloons” sailing over it. Those of you who heard Becky Rosenthal not so long ago at the special Oneg Shabbat event sponsored by S.D. Birdie Stodel Chapter got the full impact of this project. Special B’nai B’rith Freedom Scrolls have been distributed locally by the Americanism Department of the order. Be one of the 25,000,000 citizens who will contribute “truth dollars” for this worthy cause. A dollar this way spent may save you hundreds later.

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The Local  Scene – Some people say “what do you do; where does the money go; what is it all about?” and any other questions. I can fill columns and columns answering these questions. From time to time these efforts will appear in this paper, touching on the highlights here and there. Everybody cannot be active, we know, but passive membership is just as important I order to do the work B’nai B’rith does.  Have you got a son in training at some distant camp, far away from home?  How would you like to have B’nai B’rith get together with him some Sunday morning, feed him, and make him feel at home?  If it did nothing else you’d say the organization was tops!  Well, we do it all the time here at the naval training stations, for kids that come from all over the country. Take a look at their eyes and faces when we get together.  Take a look at the AZA boys as they introduce their parents at an installation. Take a look at the BBG’s when they meet regularly. Take a look at the Hillel students when they thank us for making it possible that such a group can exist on the campus and be a prime factor in the sphere of interfaith.  Yes, take a look at Brotherhood Week, the ADL, Vocational guidance, Americanism and Civic Affairs, Veterans and Armed Forces, the Israel program, the youth projects, and many others – and then say “I want to belong, even if I never come to a meeting.” Because whether you do or not, someone will always be there to carry on the good work.

B’nai B’rith in San Diego pays homage March 16 to a great personage in our midst. A testimonial dinner will be held for Carl Esenoff, a past president, and an outstanding in the general community as well as ours.  All contributions made to the United Jewish Fund that night, as well as subsequently by B’nai B’rith members, will be in Carl’s name as a tribute to hijs long career in the humanities. You probably have your invitation, please make your reservation.

In July at Spokane, Eddie Breitbard will make his bid for third vice-president of this District. He’s running against two good Los Angeles men, and it will not be easy. But Eddie is going to make a real fight of it, and to help him do it, S.D. Lasker Lodge and the S.D. B’nai B’rith Coordinating Council will in the near fture run a little social to help him on his way.

I started this column by wowing not to think I was on the pulpit. I see now that I have been running true to the long form, so until next time, this must be “thirty.”

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“Adventures in San Diego Jewish History” is sponsored by Inland Industries Group LP in memory of long-time San Diego Jewish community leader Marie (Mrs. Gabriel) Berg. Our “Adventures in San Diego Jewish History” series will be a regular feature until we run out of history.  To find stories on specific individuals or organizations, type their names in our search box.

Linda Solof Betrothed to Bruce O. Witte
Southwestern Jewish Press, January 21, 1955, Page 2

Linda Solof

Mr. and Mrs. A. Louis Solof announce the engagement of their daughter Linda Harriet to Bruce O. Witte, son of Mr. and Mrs. Henry O. Witte.

Linda, a student at U.C.L.A. passed the traditional box of candy at the Sigma Delta Tau Sorority. She is a native San Diegan and a graduate of San Diego High School. For five years Linda was a columnist for the Jewish Press, keeping the community up-to-date on teenage activities. (“Linda’s Lookout”.)

Bruce, a graduate of S.D. State College, was one of the organizers and first President of the Zeta Beta Tau Fraternity on the college campus.  He was also graduated from Hoover High School. Bruce served I the Air Force and is now a Lt. in the Reserve.

An early Spring wedding has been planned.

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Personals
Southwestern Jewish Press, January 21, 1955, Page 2

In celebration of his Bar Mitzvah on January 14^th, Michael Bennett will entertain friends Saturday evening at a Dinner-Dance, to be held at the San Diego Hotel.

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Mrs. Ann Peckarsky is busy these days showing off San Diego to her sister, Mrs. Pearl Ginsberg of Milwaukee.  Mrs. Ginsberg will be a house guest at the home of her niece and nephew Ruth and Bill Colt.

*
The Press received a friendly letter from Miss Kay Sylvia Bergman, renewing her subscription for two years. She sends her regards to all her San Diego friends and would like to hear from some of them.  Her present address is 5815 S. Vicente Blvd, Los Angeles 19.

*
Pearl and George Martin left, via train, to attend the Convention of the National Association of Home Builers in Chicago. They went East last Thursday and plan to be away at least ten days.

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The family of Harry Cohn wish to thank their many friends for the thoughtfulness shown to them during their recent bereavement.

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The Sam Cohens and the Irving Kahns have promised to make another attempt to go East in the near future. The Press is sorry that bad weather prevented their making the trip we sent them in a recent edition.
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Sid Fleischman, son of Mr. and Mrs. Fleischman, has been legally adopted by Hollywood.  He has just signed a seven year contract with the producing company of Bat-Jac and at the present time he is working on the script of “Goodbye My Lady”, starring Lauren Bacall. Sid an his family will make their new home in Santa Monica.

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Today Dr. and Mrs. David Miller will also leave for a Convention.  They will attend the American College of Surgeons’ Convention, to be held in Palm Springs, on January 22^nd.  By the way, we hope you didn’t miss Dr. Miller when he appeared on TV as one of the Board of experts.

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Dr. and Mrs. Werner Lehmann entertained friends at a cocktail party held on January 14^th, at the Admiral Kidd Officers Club.
*
Burton Nestor, who is recuperating from a recent appendectomy, wishes to thank his friends for their good wishes.

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Returning to make their home in San Diego are Dr. and Mrs. Albert Klug (Shirley Berenson) and their young son.

Dr. Klug has opened offices for the practice of medicine in San Diego.

*

Mr. and Mrs. Sol Stone wish to thank their many friends for the kindness shown them during Mrs. Stone’s recent illness.

Arthur Neumann Wedding Announced
Southwestern Jewish Press, January 21, 1955, Page 2

Al and Rose Neumann announce the marriage of their son, Arthur, to Marilyn Fladdel, daughter of MR. and Mrs. Jack Fladdel, of Brooklyn. The wedding was held on December 25 in Brooklyn, N.Y.

The young couple will make their home in San Diego. Arthur will continue his studies at State College.

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Starr-Fern Wedding
Southwestern Jewish Press, January 21, 1955, Page 2

Announcement has been made of the wedding of Rachel Fern, daughter of Mr and Mrs. Jos. Fern of Elizabeth, N.J., to Marshall Starr, son of the late Isadore Starr and Mrs. I. Starr of San Diego. The weding will be held on January 23^rd, at 7 p.m. in the Avon Mansion, in Newark, N.J. Rabbi Abraham Zigelman will officiate.

Attendants will be Helen Josen, maid of honor and Phyllis Fern, bridesmaid.  Ushers will be Bob and Hyman Grossman, Robert and Michael Hecht, Irving Ditchik and William Fern.

Marshall Starr attended San Diego State College and is now in business for himself. The couple will reside in San Diego.

San Diegans who will attend the wedding in New Jersey are Mrs. Isidore Starr and Mrs. Jos. Silverman.

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Richard Miller Bar Mitzvah
Southwestern Jewish Press, January 21, 1955, Page 2

Dr. and Mrs. David Miller announce the Bar Mitzvah of their son, Richard Elihu, on Saturday, January 29^th, 9:30 a.m., at Tifereth Israel Synagogue.  Kiddush will follow the service.  Members of the family extend an invitation to friends to join them on this happy occasion. (Invitations are not being mailed.)

On January 28^th, Richard will conduct the Friday evening service. His parents will hostess the Oneg Shabbot.

Grandparents Dr. and Mrs. Louis Victor and Mr. and Mrs. M. Miller of Boston, are planning to attend the Bar Mitzvah.

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Cradle
Southwestern Jewish Press, January 21, 1955, Page 2

Friends who phoned the Irving Stones on Sunday, Jan. 9^th, to congratulate them on their Wedding Anniversary, learned that the family was celebrating the “Happy Birthday” of Leonard Paul, who had arrived at 2:33 p.m. that day.

Red haired, blue eyed, Lenny tipped the scales at 8 lbs, 10 ozs.  His teen-age sisters, Joan and Martha, are eager baby sitters.

Maternal grandmother is MRs. Martha M. Taylor of San Diego, paternal grandmother is Mrs. G. Stone of New York City.

The Bris was held on Sunday, Jan. 1`6^th, with Rabbi Morton J. Cohn officiating.

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Bar Mitzvah
Southwestern Jewish Press, January 21, 1955, Page 2

Mr. and MRs. Reuben Aved are proud to announce the Bar Mitzvah of their son, Donald, at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 22^nd, at Tifereth Israel Synagogue.  Chaplain E.H. Rickel will officiate.

Kiddush and a reception will follow the services. All their friends are cordially invited to attend.

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Classified
Southwestern Jewish Press, January 21, 1955, Page 2

Secretary Wanted – Knowledge of Bookkeeping, Interesting Position.  Apply Jewish Social Service Ageny, 333 Plaza. BE 2-5172.

Women Wanted—Make extra money. Address, mail postcards, spare time every week. BICO, 143, Belmont, Mas.

Man Available—For gardening… trucking service…Pick up and Delivery… Call after 5 p.m.  BE 9-5788.

Art Teacher – B.A. desires work in Art, Nursery or related fields. – Tel AC-3-7394.

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Calendar
Southwestern Jewish Press, January 21, 1955, Page 2

January
23^rd—Sun.,m “Monte Carlo Nite,” Tifereth Israel Center.  Starts at 2 p.m.
24^th—Mon, 7:15 p.m.  Boys Club presents Al Kaye, sportscaster, Community Center.
24^th—Mon, 6:00 p.m. AZA Dinner, S.D. Hotel
25^th—Tues, 8 p.m., Fox Lodge installation, Beth Jacob Center.
26^th—Wed. eve., “Mr. Hadassah” Night.  Dinner and Fashion Show, Mission Valley Club.
30^th—Sun., Pioneer Women Annual Bazaar. Beth Jacob Center

February
4^th—Fri, 7:30 p.m., Temple Beth Israel Dedication Services
6^th—Sun, from 3:30 p.m. to midnight – “Country Fair.” Beth Israel Sisterhood—American Legion Hall.

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A.Z.A. To Hold Installation Jan 24
Southwestern Jewish Press, January 21, 1955, Page 2

On Monday, Jan. 24^th, at 6 p.m. at the San Diego Hotel, the A.Z.A. boys will hold a pre-Installation Dinner for their incoming officers. Later that evening, 8:30 p.m., at the regular meeting of Lasker Lodge at Temple Center, they will hold their formal installation.

Those to be installed are Pres., Steve Goldfab; Vice Pres – Alvin Cohen; Recording Secy’y, Allan Friedman; Corresponding Sec’y, Jack Sharpe; Treasurer, Ronnie Doctor; Reporter, Pete Colt, Sgt. At Arms, Mark Ulansky;  Asst Sgt at Arms, Stan Ornstein; Pledge Master, Eddie Naiman; Chaplain, Stan Breitbard.

The public is cordially invited to attend.

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Bloch’s “Shelomo” To Be Played By Piatigorsky
Southwestern Jewish Press, January 21, 1955, Page 3

A performance by Gregor Piatigorsky of Ernest Bloch’s best known work, the “Schelomo” Rhapsody for cello and orchestra, will highlight the program when the world famed cellist appears as guest soloist with the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra, Sunday evening, at 8:30 in Russ Auditorium.

Piatigorsky’s local engagement is one of his first since his return to the concert stage following an extensive European tour.  During this tour, when he boarded a plane to leave Israel, the entire Israel Philharmonic Orchestra went to the airport to bid him farewell.  The cellist had played 17 concerts in Israel including several with the orchestra, and he turned all of his fees into the pension fund for the orchestra. As a gesture of gratitude the musicians filled the airplane cabin with flowers.

Wallenstein, who will be on the podium Sunday night, has also programmed Barber’s “Overture To The School for Scandal,” Borodin’s “Polovtsian Dancers” from “Prionce Igor,” Berlioz’ “Symphanie Fantastique” and Beethoven’s “Symphony No. 7.”

The orchestra’s Sunday concert is the second in its current series. Tickets are available at Palmer Box Office, 640 Broadway.
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Solomon To Play At Russ Jan. 28
Southwestern Jewish Press, January 21, 1955, Page 3

Although he first visited America in 1926, the eminent British pianist, Solomon, who returns to San Diego for the first time in two years on Friday evening, January 28^th, in Russ Auditorium, was not introduced to California concert-goers until 1951 when he was brought to Los Angeles by Moss and Hayman.

Enthusiastic response was immediate and Solomon returned to California, playing to sold-out houses in 1952 and again in 1953. The key to the deep enjoyment he gives his audiences may be found in the statement of one reviewer. “He plays with the ecstasy of a man who hugely loves what he is doing.”

Solomon’s 1955 concert tour in California is again under the Moss and Hayman management.

Tickets are on sale at the Palmer Box Office, 640 Broadway.  Phone Belmont 9-4700.

*
First Auto Show Set For S.D. Feb. 2-6
Southwestern Jewish Press, January 21, 1955, Page 3

The first Auto Show in 22 years will open in San Diego at the Electric Bldg on Feb. 2-6, according to the Motor Car Dealers’ Association.

The International Show will have more than 100 cars including many experimental models coasting as high as $25,000.  Entertainment will be provided from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. nightly. 

Tickets will be available at the Electric Building, Balboa Park.

*
Palmer Box Office
Southwestern Jewish Press, January 21, 1955, Page 3

Palmer Box Office has opened auxiliary box offices at Taylors, 1146 Orange Ave., Coronado, HE 4-5361, and Coles, 7871 Ivanhoe Ave., La Jolla, GL 4-4766.  Main office is still at 640 Broadway.

*
(Prejudice)
Southwestern Jewish Press, January 21, 1955, Page 3

Prejudice has always been the greatest obstacle to progress.

*
Worth Reading
Southwestern Jewish Press, January 21, 1955, Page 4

“In our tradition, it is neither ruler nor politician, neither soldier nor merchant who represents the ideal. The ideal is represented by the teacher – that is to say, the person who is able through his work and his employ, to reach the intellectual, moral and artistic life of his people.

“This involves a definite renunciation of what is commonly called materialism. The idea is that human beings can attain a worthy and harmonious life only if they are able to rid themselves, within the limits of human nature, of the striving for wish-fulfillments of the material kind.  The goal is to raise the spiritual level of society.” – Albert Einstein

*
Hadassah To Hold Rummage Sale
Southwestern Jewish Press, January 21, 1955, Page 4

Mrs. Alfred Solomon, Rummage Sale Chairman, has an active committee composed of Hadassah members serving as her Co-Chairman for the gigantic Rummage Sale to be held on February 1^st through 4^th at 2870 National Avenue with working hours from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Co-Chairmen include Mmes. Leonard Pearl, Jack Brisker, Sydney Segal and Leon Solomon.

Do you have rummage?  If so, call Mrs. Solomon at Academy 3-8512 or Mrs. Pearl at Atwater 1-3289 and a fast delivery car will pick it up for you. Clean out your attic!  Clean out your garage. There’s money in them thar discards for Hadassah.

*
Attention! Blue Jean and Pinafore Set
Southwestern Jewish Press, January 21, 1955, Page 4

Superman—George Reeves – motion picture and T.V. Star has taken over National Sponsorshnip of the Children’s Crusade for the Leukemia Wing at the City of Hope.

Superman urges all of you children who would like to become members of his club to have your parents and grandparents send donations of $1.00 or more to:

Superman
City of Hope
Duarte, California

You will then receive a special Superman Button to wear and a membership card signed by Superman.

*
Jewish Community Center Use Increased
Southwestern Jewish Press, January 21, 1955, Page 4

Mr. Edward A. Breitbard, president of the Jewish Community Center noted the increased Center activities during the past year of 1954 in his annual report given to the Center membership. 

1.  In 1954 an average of 54 different activity groups per month used the Center as compared to 34 in 1953, an increase of more than 50 percent. The number of sessions jumped to 1582 in 1954 from 952 in 1953.  The attendance was raised to 36,507 from 28,701 of 1953.

2.  232 campers participated in 5300 camper days during the summer day Camp Jaycee. It may be noted that 27 youngsters received a total of 595 free camper days.

3. An original musical play was put on by the teen-agers, the young married couples organized a very successful Community Center Couples Club and the women organized a Center Women’s League which sparked outstanding social, cultural and fund-raising Center activities.

4.  More than 100 volunteers participated in a Center self-study which highlighted the need for adequate Center facilities and indicated that 90 percent of the Jewish population were ready to assist in the Center development.

5. $105,000 was raised in two building fund dinner meetings.

6.  In concluding, Mr. Breitbard thanked all who helped improve the center program and indicated with such team work, an adequate Center facility with an outstanding program could be developed within a short period of time.

*
“Adventures in San Diego Jewish History” is sponsored by Inland Industries Group LP in memory of long-time San Diego Jewish community leader Marie (Mrs. Gabriel) Berg. Our “Adventures in San Diego Jewish History” series will be a regular feature until we run out of history.  To find stories on specific individuals or organizations, type their names in our search box.

Personals
Southwestern Jewish Press, October 1, 1954, Page 3

Mr. and Mrs. Sam Shapov of Chula Vista left Monday, Sept. 13 for a month’s tour of Mexico.  They will visit Mexico City and other spots of interest below the border.

*

We’re  glad to welcome back from Oceanside, Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Levenson, who are, in turn, welcoming their friends in their new home at 6151 Tarragona Way.

*
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Rivers, with daughter Phyllis, and Mrs. Elka Rivers, drove up to the UCLA campus to attend the presentation attending daughter Eileen’s pledging to Phi Sigma Sigma Sorority on Sept. 19.

*
New Year’s greetings were e3xchanged as guests gathered at Dr. and Mrs. Walter Ornstein’s “open house” and cocktail party on Sunday, Sept. 26^th.  Gayly colored tables and umbrellas were set in the lovely gardens of the  Ornstein home, where the guests were served their favorite drink and hors d’oevre, while meeting old friends and greeting new ones. Over 150 friends attended the party.

*
San Diego’s population increased by five when Mr. and Mrs. Harry Juster chose our city to live in instead of New York. The family, including children Barbara, 20; Tammy, 15, and Jan, 6, reside at 1086 Bangor Street.

*
Off Again – Friends were saying “hello” and “goodbye again” to Irving Stone, our traveling psychologist.  He recently returned from Hawaii on Navy duty, and left this week for Washington to attend a special Navy conference for the heads of medical reserve units throughout the country.  Mrs. Stone flew to New York to visit relatives and friends with her husband, after his conference.

*
Anne Peckarsky is back in town in time to spend the Holy Days with her daughter Ruth Colt and family. After her long vacation, she should be ready to assume her duties as a Board member of the organizations in which she is interested.

*
Another Local Boy Makes Good – Lawrence S. Leonard, son of MR. and Mrs. Fred Leonard, recently joined the Technological group at Shell’s Martinez Refinery.  Lawrence, a graduate of S.D. State College, received his Masters Degree in Chemistry from Oregon State College.

*
Paris Take Care –The couturier Fashions from Israel presented by Hadassah Sept. 23 sent every woman in the audience home to build a bonfire of the contents of her closet. The gowns, products of the Alice L. Seligsberg School in Jerusalem, gave evidence that Israel will no doubt become a leading exporter of high fashion. Fabric, design and detail were all equally exquisite.

Unforgettable were “Grenadier” a red velvet sheath and jacket featuring front buttoning with pointed flap, bodice heavily embroidered in jet beads; a handsome hand-loomed vertical striped wool dress used the flattering draped cardigan neckline that should become universally popular.

“Queen Esther” was the name given a striking white short evening gown. The strapless sheath was appliquéd with pearls, rhinestones and gold beads from neckline to hemline; and accenting its femininity  was the graceful attached stole.

The most spectacular outfit was a black velvet sheath worn with a jacket – but ah, what a jacket!  It was straight, hip length . of soft-as0kitten’s ear lame, with overlay of appliquéd black velvet and embroidered with jewels. 

Thirty-one designs were displayed, modeled by local club women, and including six designs for children.

*
On Sunday, Oct. 3, Rabbi and Mrs. Morton J. Cohn will hold their annual New Year “Open House.”

They invite all members of the Congregation to join them from 4 to 6 p.m. on Oct 3 at their home at 4705 Barbarasa Dr. (corner 59^th St).

*

Effort
Southwestern Jewish Press, October 1, 1954, Page 3

Laziness grows on people; it beings in cobwebs and ends in iron chains. The more on has to do the more he is able to accomplish.

*

B.J. Sisterhood To Hold Fashion Show
Southwestern Jewish Press, October 1, 1954, Page 3

Beth Jacob Sisterhood will present a Fashion Show and full course delicious home-cooked dinner at Beth Jacob Center, on Tuesday night, October 26, at 6:00 p.m. at $1.75 per person.

The show will be sponsored by Marsi’s Fashions of Chula Vista, El Cajon and Lemon Grove, and will consist of attractive styles to suit every figure and every budget.

Dinner will be cooked by the famous Beth Jacob culinary artists. Please call and make reservations early – AT 4-9523 or HO-6-2446.

*

Center Women’s League Elects Officers and Board
Southwestern Jewish Press, October 1, 1954, Page 3

The Women’s League held their first official membership meeting on Sept. 16 at the Jewish Community Center. Mrs. Milton Fredman, temporary chairman, presided. The report of the nomination committee was presented by Mrs. Reuben Aved. The following officer and board members were elected: Pres. Sylvia Rose; 1^st V.P., Dorris Lipinsky; 2^nd V.P., Ida Beck; Rec. Sec., Janice Rabin; Corr. Sec. Tudo Solomon; treas., Ann Schloss.

Board members are Betty Adler, Rose Aved, Dorothy Belkin, Lilo Berger, Elva Breitbard, Dora Eber, Fay Fine, Naomi Hirsch, Sylvia Karzen, Elaine Kravitz, Shirley Lieberman, Tamara Rand, Lynn Schwartz, Ruth Stein, Ideal Stotsky, Dorothy Tucker, Lois Zlotoff, Thelma Selten, Edith Brav, Esther Brisker, June Ferber, Fay Fredman, Betty Karel, Julia Kaufman, Ruth Kwint, Eleanor Meyer, Nan Schiller, Alice Solomon, Julia Steinman, Gertrude Thaler, Jeanette Wax, Helen Schulman, and Sue Lowitz.

The next meeting of the Women’s League will take place on November 18 at the Center.

*
(Card of Thanks)
Southwestern Jewish Press, October 1, 1954, Page 3

Mr. and Mrs. Harry L. Goldbarg wish to thank their friends for their kind thoughts follo0wing the loss of Mrs. Goldbarg’s mother, Ida Lasky.

*
City of Hope Aux
Southwestern Jewish Press, October 1, 1954, Page 3

There are twelve patients from San Diego at Duarte, California (The City of Hope Medical Center) from January 1,1 954, who have received 735 hospital days care and forty-five were taken care of in the out-patient department from here!

*
(Anna Shelley Memorial Fund)
Southwestern Jewish Press, October 1, 1954, Page 3

Chairman Liz Gotkin asks that you make your reservations as soon as possible for the Anna Shelley Memorial Fund Luncheon at Beth Jacob Center, Thursday, October 21^st.  Proceeds go toward furnishing a room at City of Hope for our founder.

*

Cradle
Southwestern Jewish Press, October 1, 1954, Page 3

Lt. and Mrs. B.J. Mallinger wish to announce the birth of their first child, Marc Alan, born August 28^th.  Daddy, who is serving in Japan, will be “counting the days” until he meets his son. 

Maternal grandparents are Mr. and MRs. Irving Biales, of Chicago; paternal grandparents are Mr. and Mrs. Mallinger, of San Diego.

*
Mr. and Mrs. Edwin G. Cohen happily announce the birth of their first child, a son, Steven Otto, born Wednesday, September 22 in Bloomington, Ind.  Young Steven weighed 7 lbs, 15 oz.  Mrs. Henrietta Cohen is a delighted grandmother.

*
Classified
Southwestern Jewish Press, October 1, 1954, Page 3

Room for Rent with 2 ingle beds. Kitchen privileges.  BR-7-3361 or CY-6-2905.

*
Calendar
Southwestern Jewish Press, October 1, 1954, Page 3

7^th-Yo-Ma-Co Yom Kippur Dance
9^th—Birdie Stodel B.B. Aid to Israel Night – Beth Jacob Center – 8:00 p.m.
21^st—Anna Shelley Memorial Luncheon – Beth Jacob Cetner
25^th – Birdie STodel B.B. Donor Luncheon –Mission Valley Country Club—noon
26^th—Beth Jacob Sisterhood Fashion Show-Dinner – Beth Jacob Center – 6:00 p.m

*
“Hearts Clubs” Invite Overweight to Join
Southwestern Jewish Press, October 1, 1954, Page 3

“Shorten the belt line and increase hour life line1”

This might be considered the slogan of the new Help-Your-Own “Heart Clubs” now being formed in neighborhoods thru-out San Diego County to assist overweight men and women trim excess fat by “group dieting.”

The free clubs, sponsored by the San Diego County Heart Association, have met with phenomenal success in other states and San Diego is the first county in California to have such organizations formed in various neighborhoods.

Further information, including a complete booklet about joining these free clubs, may be obtained by writing or phoning the San Diego County Heart Association, 1651 Fourth Avenue, San Diego 1.

*
As The Psychologist Sees You
Southwestern Jewish Press, October 1, 1954, Page 4

By Irving R. Stone, Psychological Consultant

Religion Knows No Vacation – Whenever anyone takes a trip there are pleasurable moments to look back upon. Some pertain to the places visited, others to the people one meets, and still others to unusual situations or events.  My recent trip to Hawaii is no exception.  But one of the things which stands out in my mind is, perhaps, different than most impressions.

On the aircraft carrier which took me to Hawaii, there were three thousand men.  All were aboard for activities of a far from peaceful nature yet, when church call sounded, the number who responded to the religious services was astounding. From Friday evening, when the boys of the Jewish faith met to conduct services, to the four services on Sunday morning for those of the Protestant and Catholic faiths, one thought was in their minds—the need for spiritual uplifting.

None of these men were forced to attend services, none met to get out of some unpleasant chore, yet all appeared to gain by the experience.  IT was like they had a great desire to participate in an undertaking for which they and they alone would benefit from something apart from military life.

On Friday evening, while in Honolulu, I went to the one Jewish house of worship, Temple Emanuel.  Rabbi Siegel told me that his first pulpit was in San Diego, many years ago. I found that, truly religion knows no vacation for the small but crowded Temple was filled almost to overflowing by the many tourists who were in Hawaii for a rest and vacation but who felt the same need for religious participation as did the men on that large aircraft carrier. Again, there was no need to attend services because they were members of the congregation or because there was nothing better to do. They came because they wanted to, giving up one important evening in a short vacation period.

Why does religion know no vacation?  Perhaps it is because there is a feeling of acceptance, a feeling of kinship, a feeling of humility, or a feeling of devotion, which only religious worship affords. Perhaps it makes people feel as though home is wherever they might be.  Or perhaps they feel that only through some religious affiliation to they become a total in dividual.

One question I cannot answer is, “Why is it that the need for religion is neglected when one is in the familiar surroundings of one’s home environment, yet is recognized when one is in unfamiliar and distant places? “

*

Prosperity
Southwestern Jewish Press, October 1, 1954, Page 4

Good times is the period when you accumulate debts you’re unable to pay in bad times

*

“Adventures in San Diego Jewish History” is sponsored by Inland Industries Group LP in memory of long-time San Diego Jewish community leader Marie (Mrs. Gabriel) Berg. Our “Adventures in San Diego Jewish History” series will be a regular feature until we run out of history.  To find stories on specific individuals or organizations, type their names in our search box.  

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1223 Louis VIII became King of France upon the death of his father, Philip II of France.

1698 The Darien scheme began with five ships, bearing about 1,200 people, departing Leith for the Isthmus of Panama.

1769 The de Portolá Expedition established a base in California, and set out to find the Port of Monterey.

1771 Foundation of the Mission San Antonio de Padua  by the Franciscan friar Junípero Serra.

1789  French Revolution: Citizens of Paris stormed the Bastille and free seven prisoners.

1790  French Revolution: Citizens of Paris celebrated the constitutional monarchy and national reconciliation in the Fête de la Fédération.

1791  The Priestley Riots drove  Joseph Priestley, a supporter of the French Revolution, out of Birmingham, England.

1798  The Sedition Act became law in the United States making it a federal crime to write, publish, or utter false or malicious statements about the government.

 1834  James Abbott McNeill Whistler, American painter (d. 1903).

1858  Emmeline Pankhurst, English suffragette (d. 1928)

1865  First ascent of the Matterhorn by Edward Whymper and party, four of whom died on the descent.

 1868  Gertrude Bell, English archaeologist, writer, spy, and administrator, was born (d. 1926).

1872 Albert Marque, French sculptor and doll maker, was born (d. 1939).

 1881 Billy the Kid was shot and killed by Pat Garrett outside Fort Sumner.

1853 New Zealand’s first general election began.

1900 Armies of the Eight-Nation Alliance captured Tientsin during the Boxer Rebellion.

1902 The Campanile in St Mark’s Square, Venice collapsed, also demolishing the loggetta.

1903 Irving Stone, American writer, was born (d. 1989).

1910 William Hanna, American animator, was born  (d. 2001).

1911  Terry-Thomas, British actor, was born  (d. 1990).

1912 Woody Guthrie, American folk musician, was born (d. 1967).

1913 Gerald Ford, 38th President of the United States, was born (d. 2006).

1916 Start of the Battle of Delville Wood as an action in the Battle of the Somme.

1918  Ingmar Bergman, Swedish film and theatre director, was born (d. 2007).

1921 – Leon Garfield, English children’s author, was born (d. 1996).

1924 – James W. Black, Scottish pharmacologist, Nobel laureate, was born.

1928 Nancy Olson, American actress, was born.

1930 Polly Bergen, American actress, was born.

1933 Gleichschaltung: In Germany, all political parties were outlawed except the Nazi Party.

1940 Susan Howatch, English author, was born.

1943  The George Washington Carver National Monument became the first United States National Monument in honor of an African American.

1948  Palmiro Togliatti, leader of the Italian Communist Party, was shot near the Italian Parliament.

1950 Sir Apirana Ngata died.

1958  Iraqi Revolution:  the monarchy was overthrown by popular forces lead by Abdul Karim Kassem, who becomes the nation’s new leader.

1965  The Mariner 4 flyby of Mars took the first close-up photos of another planet.

1969  Football War: after Honduras lost a soccer match against El Salvador rioting broke out in Honduras against Salvadoran migrant workers.

1969  The United States $500, $1,000, $5,000 and $10,000 bills were officially withdrawn from circulation.

1992  386BSD was released by Lynne Jolitz and William Jolitz beginning the Open Source Operating System Revolution.

2000 A powerful solar flare, later named the Bastille Day event, causef a geomagnetic storm.

2002  French President Jacques Chirac escaped an assassination attempt unscathed during Bastille Day celebrations.

2003  The United States Government admitted the existence of “Area 51“.

2007  Russia withdrew from the Treaty on Conventional Armed Forces in Europe.

Sourced from NZ History Online & Wikipedia

Home From Abroad—Nelson Olf, son of Mr. and Mrs. Abraham Olf, has ended his midshipman summer training in European waters aboard the USS Wisconsin, and is expected home.  He will have just a few days with his parents before leaving to begin the fall semester at Oregon State College.

While in London, Nelson and his shipmates visited the Tower of London and saw the changing of the guard. The cultureal hnigh spot was his attendance at the Paris Opera House for a performance of “Rigoletto.”

*
Short Visit – Alan Breslauer, son of Mr. and Mrs. A. Breslauer, has finished a course at an Army school in Norfolk and will return home this week for a visit with his parents.  Alan plans to make up for lost time with his friends while he’s here because before long he’ll be headed back to an Army School in New York.
*

Pleasant Duty—At his annual summer duty with the Naval Reserve, Jewish Press columnist Irving Stone will serve on a special research project for the Navy which will take him by carrier to Hawaii.  He left Wednesday and will return by plane about the middle of September.

*
Good Timing—The Nate Schillers and family have been showing off San Diego to cousins, Mr. and Mrs. Mason Miller of Riverdale, N.Y.  The Millers and their two children, Peggy and Michael, have been on a tour of the entire United States, but only here did they have the unexpected pleasure of arriving in time to neet a new relative—the brand new son of Harley and Mitzi Schiller Babbitz.

*
Betrothal Announced – Mr. and Mrs. Robert I. Berkun are happy to announce the engagement of their daughter, Anita, to Calvin Green, son of Mr. Ernest Green of Escondido. No wedding date has been set.

*
Farewell But Not Goodbye – An equal share of parting tears and pride in children’s achievement is the lot of many parents this month. The annual exodus of college students starts this weekend and judging by the numbers leaving San Diego, the town should be pretty quiet until the next school holiday.

Some of those leaving to attend UCLA are Linda Solof, Eileen Rivers, Sandra Schissell, Rosalyn and Elaine Burdman, Arline Mallen, Bunny Goodman, Ro9nny Greenberg, Stanton Camiel, Jerry Schissell, Leonard Naiman and David Levens.

USC calles Esther Jane Lustig, Carol Fischer and Anita Weinstock.  Gene Freed will attend USC Medical School.

Expecting great thing from the next year at the University of California at Berkeley are Jean Goldstein, Judy Yukon, Paul Kaufman, Michael Soule and Burton Sharpe.

Sam Sosna will return to Stanford.  Danny Schaffer leaves for Harvard, and Kay Miller enters M.I.T.

*
Eastern Visitor – The many San Diego friends of Mrs. Rose Plotnick of Norwalk, Conn., are glad to learn that she is in town visiting her daughter, Mrs. S. Kerper.

*
Good Luck! – The Leon Heimans with their two lovely daughters,  Brenda and Ilene, have moved into their new home at 5822 Barbarossa Ct.  The dog, Skipper, is the only one not delighted with the change – the “verboten” new carpeting is forcing him to change his habits. Friends with gardening tools: please call.

*
V.I.P. – Richard Silberman is going great guns with his Kay-Lab Corp.  His association with La Motte Cohu will enable him to expand his ideas in this new electronics field.

*
Lefty O’Doul Take Note –Joel Mogy’s baseball career seems will assured.  Playing centerfield for the S.D. team in Nebraska for the American Legion Jun ior baseball tournament, he has been one of the mainstays of the local nine.

*
He Never Had It So Good!—Elfie Schwitkis’ skunk left home last week after living I the lap of luxury for 3 months.  Elfie fed her de-skunked pet a diet of chicken and avocados.

*
(Thanks)–Mrs. A. Breslauer wishes to thank her friends for their kindnesses during her recent hospitalization and convalescence.

Mr. and Mrs. M.S. Berlin wish to thank their friends for their kindnesses during his recent illness.

*
Please Note! – Mrs. Irvine M. Schulman has accepted the post of treasurer of the George Neumann Memorial Fund. All those who wish to make contributions to any charity through this fund may contact Mr. Schulman at BE 3-8393 or write to 333 Plaza, Room 311.

*
Nothing Gained – If all the investigations in the world were placed end to end they would never reach a conclusion.

*
(Mother’s Business)–  No one can say a mother’s business isn’t always picking up.

*
Cradle
Southwestern Jewish Press, September 3, 1954, Page 3

It’s a second boy for Mr. and Mrs. Harley Babbitz (Mitzi Schiller).  Two year old Russell (Rusty) may not be impressed with the following statistics, but will welcome the new playmate.  David Edward, weighing 7 lbs, 4 ½ oz., was born on Monday, August 30 at 10:00 a.m.

Grandparents are Mrs. Henry Babbitz of Sioux City, Iowa and Mr. and Mrs. Nathan Schiller.

*

The stork had a busy schedule last Monday morning: for just 38 minutes later – at exactly 10:38 a.m. on August 30, weighing 5 lbs, 11 oz, Miss Suzie Arlene was born to Mr. and Mrs. Frank Goldberg (Lee Winicki).

Susie is the first child for the Frank Goldbergs and the second grandchild for Mr. and Mrs.  Frank Winicki.  Mrs. Jean Goldberg is paternal grandmother.

*
Classified
Southwestern Jewish Press, September 3, 1954, Page 3

For Rent – Large newly furnished room with kitchen privileges in lovely new home in La Mesa.  HO 9-7266.

Room for Rent with 2 single beds.  Kitchen privileges.  BR-7-3361 or CY-6-2905.

*
Calendar
Southwestern Jewish Press, September 3, 1954, Page 3

11^th –Beth Jacob P.T.A. Square Dance Frolic – B.J. Center – 8:00 p.m.

11^th –Cottage of Israel 4^th Annual Open Meeting – Tifereth Israel Center – 8:00 p.m.

15^th—Jewish War Veterans Talent Show – War Memorial Bldg – 8:15 p.m.

19^th – Poale Zion 2^nd Annual Dinner – House of Hospitality Lounge

19^th – B’nai B’rith Girls’ Mother and Daughter Tea –1201 Trieste Dr – 2:00 p.m.

20^th – Birdie Stodel Membership Luncheon – Beth Jacob Center – 12 noon

22^nd – Beth Israel Sisterhood “Breakfast with Sisterhood” – Manor Hotel – 11;00 a.m.

24^th – Hadassah Israeli Fashion Show – State Theatre – 1:30 p.m.

*

As the Psychologist Sees You
Southwestern Jewish Press, September 3, 1954, Page 4

By Irving R. Stone, Psychological Consultant

What’s New In Print – Let’s continue with our consideration of the psychological impact of the news in our morning paper.  Last time, you remember, we discussed the front page the general current events, and the theatrical page. Suppose we now turn to the sports section.

The late Knute Rockne, one of the greatest football coaches, was a great believer in psychology,  His use of the subject in the development of his teams was almost as important as the development of teamwork.  He instilled a fighting spirit in his teams that roused them to a pitch almost bordering on rage.  Baseball managers use similar techniques. When a team is on a winning streak, the spirit of winning at all costs permeates from the coach to the players and even down to the fans in the stands.  There are more fights among the spectators when their team is on the road to a championship than when it is among the cellar dwellers.

The editorial page next invites our attention. Here there is a definite attempt to sway our thoughts. Just as the writers of the editorials formulate their opinions, so must we as readers take a stand.  (T)he extent to which we conform to the thoughts of the writers often will determine the continuation of our purchasing of the paper.  Sometimes editorials lull us to a sense of security, others incite us to action, still others arouse an awareness of our own needs.

Let’s not overlook the society page.  Here we have a view of the doings of our friends and neighbors, or possibly a recognition of things we would like for ourselves. We read that Mr. and Mrs. Jones are taking a trip and instantly toss in our own minds of how much we would like to make this trip, instead of being tied down to the duties of daily living. We are motivated to keep up with the Jones’s.

Now to the advertisements. Quite naturally, newspaper ads are there to prompt us to buy If the article, because of its clever display and attractive design, has any value for us and satisfies a desire or need, and is relatively within our means, we are prompted to purchase it. But, without the ad we would give little or no thought to the possibility of purchasing the merchandise. Television advertising has captures much of the power of newspaper advertising because it can dramatize and make the product more appealing to us by placing the merchandise in our own homes.  We can remember better those things we can see placed in a natural setting.

In most newspapers we find a page or more of comics. Old and young alike turn to them with glee, often as the first thing looked at in the newspaper. That is why the Sunday paper is so popular on the day before the publication date, even though the news is general and often “stale.”  Most comics are no longer humorous incidents but are serous, thrilling stories, some believable happenings of ordinary people, and others fanciful, fantastic, nerve-tingling adventures.  The former are playful reflections of ourselves and the latter leads us on a merry chase, allowing us to live the lives of people we’d like to be, doing things we’d like to do.

Even the little items of the weather reports has psychological importance for upon it is based our activities. The farmer knows when to plant and reap his crops, the schoolboy knows whether he can play his ball game, the housewife knows whether she should wear her new dress to go shopping or whether to hang out the week’s washing, and the store manager knows whether he should put out his display of umbrellas. It can put us in a rage, when it is at variance with our plans, or fill us with glee when it allows us to complete our plans for the day.

And so, we arrive at the end of our little trip through the pages of our newspaper. The psychologist sees more than words or newsprint. To him, each page is filled with interesting material for psychological study. What’s New in Print has more than events, it is a study of human behavior.

*
(Money and Happiness)
Southwestern Jewish Press, September 3, 1954, Page 4

It’s a fact money cannot buy happiness, but it places the possessor in an excellent bartgaining position.

*
(Talking and saying)
Southwestern Jewish Press, September 3, 1954, Page 4

Anyone can talk—saying something is more difficult.

*
(Wife’s influence)
Southwestern Jewish Press, September 3, 1954, Page 4

A husband under his wife’s thumb may be underprivileged, but seldom under indictment.

(Old Age)
Southwestern Jewish Press, September 3, 1954, Page 4

It’s a good thing that old age happens only once in a lifetime

*
Jewish War Vets Stage Talent Show
Southwestern Jewish Press, September 3, 1954, Page 4

The S.D. Post and Auxiliary No. 185, Jewish War Veterans, will sponsor a Talent Show, on Wednesday evening, September 15 at 8:15 p.m., in the San Diego Veterans War Memorial Bldg., in Balboa Park.  There will be no admission charge and refreshments will be served immediately following the talent show, states Harry Apelman, who is in charge of the entertainment program for the month of September.

There will be acrobatic dancing; tap and soft shoe dancing; comic accordion duets; guitar and singing duets; an accordion and bass viol quintet combination; authentic Hawaiian dancers; pantomimics and other talent.

Several loving cup trophies will be presented as well as many beautiful and useful gifts which are being donated by generous members and merchants. Don’t forget the date: Wednesday, September 145.  The place, San Diego Veterans War Memorial Bldg., Balboa Park. The Time: 8:15 p.m.  Bring your Veteran friends, it’s all Free.

*
Cottage of Israel Holds 4^th Annual Meeting
Southwestern Jewish Press, September 3, 1954, Page 4

Cottage of Israel cordially invites its members and friends to attend their fourth annual open meeting on Saturday, Sept. 11 at 8 p.m. in the North Auditorium of Tifereth Israel Center.

Nominations and election of officers for 1954-55 will take place at this time an appropriate program will be offered.  In commemoration of the 50^th anniversary of the death of Theodore Herzl, Mr. John H. Ellsworth, president of the San Diego Museum of Man will deliver an oration in his memory.  Mr. Ellsworth who is a dramatic speaker with a background of radio experience will base his address on one of the most colorful figures of modern Zionism.

Also featured on the program will be Mrs. Seymour Gates, pianist, Sonia Weitzman with Songs of Israel, and Israeli dances by Ethel Mallinger.

Refreshments will be served following the program.  There is no admission charge and it is hoped that all friends of the Cottage of Israel will attend.

*
(Lines and Ropes)
Southwestern Jewish Press, September 3, 1954, Page 4

Pinky Lee: “Many men think they are handing a girl a line when they are merely being roped in.”

*

“Adventures in San Diego Jewish History” is sponsored by Inland Industries Group LP in memory of long-time San Diego Jewish community leader Marie (Mrs. Gabriel) Berg. Our “Adventures in San Diego Jewish History” series will be a regular feature until we run out of history.  To find stories on specific individuals or organizations, type their names in our search box.

‘Music Hath Charms’ For Juveniles Too
Southwestern Jewish Press, May 14, 1954, page 2

As a balance for all the headlines on juvenile delinquents, it is re commended tht you attend some of the S.D. Youth Symphonies.  Conductor Walter Peterson has done a magnificent job in assembling and conducting young   people in symphony work. The long hours of practice were evident in the playing of these talented young boys and girls.

Mary Kay Emery, ten year old piano soloist, held herself like a veteran of many years and played the tricky Mozart Piano Concert in F. Major, displaying understanding and talent.  Standing on the sidelines and being justifiably proud was her teacher, Miss Vivian Brown.

*
Hadassah Will Hear Book  Review May 19
Southwestern Jewish Press, May 14, 1954, page 2

A book review by Mrs. A.P. Nasatir will highlight the luncheon meeting of Hadassah, on Wednesday, May 19, at Temple Center at 12 noon.  The book, “Foolish Immortals” by Paul Gallico, was a 1953 best seller.

The evening group of Hadassah will be in complete charge of the meeting.  Cooking up a delightful menu will be chairman Mrs. Wallace Hirsch and her committee: Mesdames Frank Janowsky, David Askenaizer, Sidney Chemnick, and Leon Silvers.  Mrs. Frank Janowsky is program chairman.  In charge of decorations are Mrs. Earl Richmond and Mrs. Maynard Hurwitz.  To serve you will be Mesdames David Proctor, Chairman of Waitresses Committee, Steven Weisbrod, Herbert Bartel, Norwin Rosener and Jerome Greenstein.  Mrs. Norwin Rosner is in charge of luncheon hostesses.  Mrs. Al Rosen is publicity chairman.  Luncheon tickets may be purchased at the door. Reservations may  be made by calling Mrs. Walter Parker, JU-2-7941.

*
From Where I Sit
Southwestern Jewish Press, May 14, 1954, page 2

By Mel Goldberg

The San Diego Evening Tribune report of a Communist radio broadcaster stating last week that film star, Kirk Douglas, “lacked the literary knowledge of a fifth-grade Russian student…”  That’s really a good one!  Douglas then known as Isadore Demsky graduated from St. Lawrence University, Class of 1939.  Literary accomplishments: Phi Beta Kappa, Dean’s list of students maintaining above average grades, the Gaines Award for the outstanding literary student of his class, graduated cum laude with honors in English and history.

To further examine the record: he was president of the student body of almost 1500 students, a most remarkable feat for a non-fraternity, let along Jewish, student.  Douglas also demonstrated athletic prowess by never being pinned during his collegiate wrestling career.  All of the above mastered while he went through the strain of financial duress—his father had been a horse and wagon rag-peddler and the family were lucky if they had enough to eat on many a day.  Douglas sent himself through college by working as a waiter. Biographies now being accepted here for fifth-grade Russian students with the above qualifications of any part thereof.  One of Douglas’ five Jewish classmates was Marine hero Alfred Litchman, who at one time was stationed at Pendleton.  Major Litchman, much decorated during World War II, received a silver Star for his heroism at Guadalcanal, where for several nights in a row, he singlehandedly swam across a river under murderous Japanese fire, stole enemy food supplies, swam back, and kept his entire cut-off company alive until relief came….

Ever notice the building in Ensenada named “Casa Ginsberg?” ….

Mel Kendall, former Red Cross and “Frogman” instructor, is opening San Diego’s only commercial swimming school at a new pool, specifically designed for instruction.  One end is about as deep as a bowl of Lou Lipton’s clam chowder! …

The Turnabout Cooking School at the home Show is a new experiment adopted from L.A..’s successful Turnabout Theatre.  The audience watches ingredients being prepared at one end of the room, turn their chairs around, then see the cooking process on a simulated patio at the opposite end of the room. Recipes are all Cal-western and the whole deal is being supervised by Martha Logan, the human encyclopedia of home economics….

The only dog registered at the Coronado Hasassah Convention was a boxer belonging to the Saul Coopers of Beverly Hills.  Cooper, a relative of Mrs. David Block, recognized Mac Kaufman.  A bit unusual because the last time the two had seen each other Mac was playing handball in N.Y. City 92^nd St Y and that was 25 years ago…

Jack Benny will be in demand as one of the outstanding after-dinner speakers if he doesn’t watch out.  His modesty and relaxed good humor, won over the large group at the Hadassah Banquet, honoring his friend, Eddie Cantor.  In contradiction to a remark made by Cantor, Benny quipped, “Cantor is so religious that he has two Cadillacs—one for everyday and one for Pesach.”  About his famous Maxwell, he said, “I found out it was a convertible and sent it to Denmark. It is now a Chevrolet.”…

Plenty of “body” in the suits at Leo Becks store.  Salesman Eddie Reeves wrenched his back hanging one up on the rack….

Sam Solomon says that English is a funny language.  While buying coffee the other morning he overheard a man say of a political candidate: “If he only takes a firm stand when he runs, he’ll walk away with the election.” …

Maury Gross, local Maxie the taximan, picked up a fare on 5^th Ave.  His passenger inquired as to “How’s the taxi business?”   Maury informed him that “it stinks,” and then asked the rider how conditions were in his business.  “They stink in my business too,” the passenger answered.  “What line are you in?” Maury queried.  “Politics,” said the passenger, who then identified himself as Richard Graves, candidate for Governor ….

Just as a sobering thought:  has the time come when American Jewry—and all Americans—must be considered outcasts because they choose to be plain thinking loyal Americans. Does it have to follow that those of us, who recognize the horrible threat of Communism, past and present—must necessarily be called supporters of McCarthy.  We know of a local woman who has reached the hysterical state of believing that anyone who disagrees with what is printed in The Readers Digest, is automatically and unequivocably, a Communist.  In the same light—if we think—and we do—that McCarthy is a fraudulent outrage perpetrated on the American people and is, quite frankly, a calculating ballyhoo pitchman of half truths and innuendoes—does it have to follow that we must be classified as a communist?  We hold no quarter for Communists, Fifth-Amendment Communists and/or McCarthyites. Somehow we feel that as Americans, we can still retain a sober middle-of-the-road viewpoint and not become a victim of the pseudo mass hysteria which is rapidly overcoming America and which delights both the cunning Reds and the coat-tail grabbers of Sen. McCarthy.

*
Marriage Told
Southwestern Jewish Press, May 14, 1954, page 3

Mr. and Mrs. Moe Pearl have made known the marriage of their son, Nisson, to Delores Katz of Brooklyn, N.Y.  The wedding took place on May 4 in Miami, Fla., where Nisson is associated with the Miami Beach Jewish Community Center.

Nisson studied at San deigo State College, received his B.A. degree from the University of California at Berkeley and his M.A. degree from the University of Chicago.  Delores is a graduate of Brooklyn College. 

The newlyweds  are making their home in Miami.

*
Betrothed
Southwestern Jewish Press, May 14, 1954, page 3

 Mr. and Mrs. Albert Schecter announce the betrothal of their daughter, Violet, to Alfred L. Perper, of this city, son of Mr. and Mrs. Morris Perper of Chicago.  The young couple have set July 11 as the date of their wedding.

Miss Schechter attended San Diego State College. Mr. Perper attended Chicago schools and is in business here.

*
Personals
Southwestern Jewish Press, May 14, 1954, page 3

Joe and Jean Spatz had a twofold celebration of their 25^th anniversary last week. A family dinner was given in their honor followed by a weekend in Los Angeles and a dinner party given by friends there. 

Joe and Jean were so overwhelmed by messages of congratulations, they take this opportunity to thank their friends for their good wishes.

*
Sidney Posin left yesterday by plane to attend the Conference of Jewish Social Work in Philadelphia.  Sid expects to visit New York to see his favorite ball club in action – the Giants, natch.

*
Elsie and Edmund Herman, taking a respite from mundane affairs, spent a gala weekend in Las Vegas.

*
Leanore and Al Hutler celebrated their 20^th wedding anniversary last week by a trip to Los Agneles and returned home to find their friends had arranged another celebration for them at home.

*
Mrs. Lou Moorstein will be hostess to her Minyon, the Leah Weinberger Memorial Minyon, on Tuesday, May 18.  Luncheon will be served in the garden, now at its height of full bloom, and movies shown later in the new recreation room.

*
Marvin and Deborah Grey have opened a real estate brokerage business at 2182 Sunset Cliffs Blvd., Ocean Beach area.  They have announced that they weill handle all phases of real estate in Pt. Loma, Loma Portal and Ocean Beach.

*
Our own columnist, Irving Stone, psychology instructor, and psychological consultant, will deliver a paper on “Smoking Habits in Psychiatric Disorders” at the Western Psychological Association’s meeting in Long Beach, May 20-22.

***
Adventures in Jewish History” is sponsored by Inland Industries Group LP in memory of long-time San Diego Jewish community leader Marie (Mrs. Gabriel) Berg. Our indexed “Adventures in San Diego Jewish History” series will be a regular feature until we run out of history.

Leonard is my [Colette's] dad, and I grew up watching his oil paintings come to life.  We have four of his paintings proudly displayed in our living room.

Below are his answers to our Seven Questions: enjoy!

Q. What has quickened your pulse recently?
A. —the smell of linseed oil and turpentine!  I enjoy the actual working with oils—the mixing and application.

Q. What are you reading/watching/listening to these days?
A. What I’m reading that relates to my art is the “biographical novel of Michelangelo” by Irving Stone, The Agony and the Ecstasy.  Also I read articles in art magazines, particularly Southwest Art.

Q. What’s one of your guilty pleasures?
A. Watching Law & Order and CSI.

Q. Whose work do you admire?
A. How does one narrow it down?—generally realistic oil painters, particularly someone like Camille Corot.  Of present-day painters it would be the likes of Richard Schmid and those associated with or trained by him.

Q. Where’s your favorite place to do creative work?
A. Any one of my paintings can be the result of extended time and varying places, going through several stages:  the idea (any place, developing over years), preliminary sketches (when the idea interests me, at varying places and times–some have been on restaurant napkins), mental visualizing (my favorite—when I find myself seeing the subject in my mind and find myself able to visualize changes and adjustments; this has happened to me at night just before dropping off to sleep), sketching on the painting surface (in my small studio), applying the paint (studio), glowering at the almost finished painting over several days (in our day-to-day living areas), general refinements and glazings, etc. (studio).

Q. You’ve been given a $5,000 budget for your next project. What would you do?
A. Have someone design and build an efficient and highly accessible storage system for the many paintings I have not yet sold. On the other hand, I’d try about any commissioned painting for $5000!

Q. How can we find out more about your work?
A. I am personally not savvy with digital and on-line transmission of pictures, so that, I’m sorry, would not be a good way.  You may call me at 712-323-6160 or write to me at LJOriginals@gmail.com.

(To view photographs of Leonard Johnson’s paintings, visit his page on Bliss Street Studios.)

Summary:

Irving Stone’s Lust for Life is a biographical novelization of the life of Vincent van Gogh. The novel is based on the many letters (approximately 700) written between Vincent van Gogh and his younger brother, Theo. Stone takes author’s creative license and invents dialogue, situations, etc. but many of the characters, places, and events are based on events which really happened and which were described in the brothers’ letters. The novel spans approximately ten years, from the time van Gogh leaves home to become a missionary, to his death in Auvers-sur-Oise. Stone appropriately captures van Gogh’s temperament, as well as his passion for art, though never quite having been accepted as an artist in his lifetime, by critics or peers.

The Good:

Where to begin? Essentially, almost any and every aspect of this novel is “good.” The novel is written so well, so fluidly and vividly, that for much of the novel I truly felt like I was watching a movie. The characters – many of them historically familiar- came to life for me, were distinguishable from one another and were eerily true to the impression I had of many of these people (at least the ones I had heard of prior to reading this book). I appreciated especially that Stone recreated such a believable, seamless biography from letters composed between the two van Gogh brothers. It would have been simple to present this in epistolary form, but I think the beauty and connection between the reader and the characters (aka historical figures) is greatly enhanced by being presented in the biographical novel form. Not only was the novel entertaining and beautifully written, but as someone not too familiar with art history and the “schools” or relationships between these artists (Manet, Cezanne, Gauguin, Pissarro, Seurat, Degas, etc) I was pleased to have been able to learn so much and to appreciate the life and works of these men (and women) without necessarily feeling overwhelmed by all of the new information. I was impressed by the attention paid to each of the major artists and their particular artistic style: Seurat’s scientific/intellectual approach; Gauguin’s love of color; Rousseau’s imagination. I found myself running to my cell phone or laptop many, many times so I could look up examples of the artists’ paintings (sometimes specifically referenced, sometimes particularly styles – like pointillism – mentioned in dialogue) and this greatly enhanced the novel for me, in terms of connectivity and imagery. The minor characters, too, such as the miners, the weavers, the peasants, and van Gogh’s many “women” were also well established – something I found particularly endearing as van Gogh himself spent his greatest energies on representing beauty in the “real” people, and not the typical interpretations of the beautiful. I felt this was one of many ways in which Stone paid homage to the work and character of van Gogh, while telling his life story. I was quite impressed by the author’s desire to remain honest and respectful – Stone presents the reader with the good and bad, the instability and the romance – and he lets the reader make his own judgments (as van Gogh would strive to represent the spirit of the painting, without putting his own moral judgment on the model).

The Bad:

The one singular fault I could find with this novel is that, though I came to understand van Gogh’s life and time quite well, I don’t know that I particularly understand van Gogh much better. I certainly know more about his painting style, his relationships, his general character and family life. I learned much about his devotion to his brother and his respect for his parents. Yet, for instance, when van Gogh begins to go a bit mad (we get the impression this is induced by sun stroke) and that madness ultimately leads to his suicide, I don’t get a clear understanding of the “why?” What was really going on with van Gogh? He would have his episodes every three months, like clockwork, but does any real ailment actually happen like that? It seems, almost, that these episodes/fits were self-induced, but this is something the author does not hypothesize about – possibly because he means to speak strictly from the van Gogh letters and not put any of his own interpretations of the situation into the work. Still, I would have appreciated a better understanding of why, for instance, van Gogh was so disturbing to women – he had no wealth, no real income, and a boisterous character, certainly, but that the only woman he could claim as a wife (in name, not legality) was a prostitute, and even she left him – this seems, too, to say something about van Gogh’s personality that is conspicuously absent from the novel. Vincent van Gogh also had no real friends – many people are said to be frightened of him, even. I am left with the impression that van Gogh’s temperament may have been unstable for much of his life, but only became more pronounced in his later years – the inability to stay in one place, to go into passions over an idea (such as the artist’s commune) and then suddenly, without warning or reason, drop and dismiss the passions entirely. The sun stroke and the isolation in Arles perhaps further subjected van Gogh to his own mental instability. It is interesting that in Arles and St. Remy, where he begins to lose his wits (and is committed to an insane asylum), is also where he paints his acclaimed masterpieces: “The Cafe Terrace on the Place du Forum”, the “Sunflowers” series, and “Starry Night Over the Rhone.” It’s almost as if van Gogh needed to work himself to mental exhaustion, to starve his body and rack his mind to its limits in order to create his very best work. While some of these episodes are well written, and the decline is indicated clearly and orderly, I still found the reasoning, the underlying cause, missing.

Final Verdict: 4.5/5.0
Upon reflection and review, I find Lust for Life to be an almost perfect novel. It is well-written. It is, as far as I can tell, honest to history and the historical figures it represents. Stone does a masterful and delicate job of re-telling the life story of one of history’s greatest and most well-known artists. Though I would have appreciated more time having been spent on van Gogh’s mental decline, I did find the decline easy to follow and to witness. Some other elements, like van Gogh’s infamous alcoholism and “smoker’s cough” were left out (there was plenty of drinking – but a “problem” was not implied) which, perhaps, Stone did not find necessary, but I believe it detracts from some of the underlying problems (does a sober man really cut off his ear?). Still, though, the language, the relevance, the relationships, the characterization and emotion are all brilliant. Stone even makes an effort to present his characters in the manner which van Gogh would paint his own models and landscapes, an ingenious and, I’m sure, incredibly difficult task to accomplish. This has been one of the best pieces of biographical fiction I’ve ever read, and even one of the best novels I’ve enjoyed in my rather large reading history. I eagerly await the chance to read Stone’s “masterpiece,” The Agony and the Ecstasy which is another biographical novel, this one about Michelangelo.

Uttering those words, advertising agent Harry Crane has divulged one of the many mysteries within the critically acclaimed television series, Mad Men.

If you haven’t watched the show, or need to catch-up, the Park Ridge library owns season one, two, and three. If you’re like me and can’t get enough of the hip advertising agents and their cool 60’s setting, try a book off of one of the following lists:

Recommended Reads:

The Blood of the Lamb: A Novel by Peter De Vries

The Feminine Mystique by Betty Friedan

The Thin Man by Dashiell Hammett

The Learner’s by Chip Kidd

Angle of Repose by Wallace Stegner

Rabbit, Run by John Updike

The Man in the Gray Flannel Suit by Sloan Wilson

Revolutionary Road by Richard Yates

Books the characters have been seen reading on the series:

The Sound and the Fury by William Faulkner

Lady Chatterly’s Lover by DH Lawrence

Ship of Fools by Katherine Anne Porter

The Agony and the Ecstasy by Irving Stone

Exodus by Leon Uris

My thoughts on Irving Stone’s The Origin so far… (I’m on Book Ten)

Irving Stone presents a very cheerful, almost carefree, narrative of Darwin’s life. Friendships are dwelt upon, discoveries are glorified, and opposition breezed over. Even the death of Charles and Emma’s third child is skipped over with a mere page and a half of detail.

Despite being an enjoyable novel, its astonishing how much humanity is lacking in the description – it has the feel of a 1950′s family sitcom, Leave It to Beaver meets the Darwin family in Victorian England.

I like Irving Stone’s version of things, however. It gives a detailed time line of publications and events. Its a good source to use as an introduction to the study of evolution: names, dates, and important essays, journals and other writings are handed to you chronologically on a silver platter so that you can jot them down and do additional research afterward.

The book is quite clever, actually, sidestepping every controversy and smiling noncommittally.

“They established a routine in which everyone fitted harmoniously,” (from book nine: the Whole Life) seems to be the theme of the book, rather than the development of the theory of evolution. It is full of lines like: “The Manuscript on Volcanic Islands moved along felicitously.” Even through his many illnesses and the death of his two daughters, Charles Darwin seems to have led a very charmed life.

I discussed all this with a member the physical JARS book club, and she pointed out something important that I failed to notice: this is exactly the way a man of the Victorian Age would want his biography written. The Victorian era was a time when the upper class mastered the art of smiling and pretending everything was fine, introducing what my friend described as “that very British attitude of ‘Get Over It and Move On.’ “

http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=anakawhims-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=0451168100

Compiled by Gail Umeham 

**

Naliboff-Berg
Southwestern Jewish Press February 6, 1954 Page 2

Mr. & Mrs. Samuel D. Naliboff announce the marriage of their daughter, Clara, to Selwyn S. Berg, son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Berg, of La Mesa.  The ceremony was performed by Rabbi Monroe Levens assisted by Cantor Joseph Cysner in the home of the bride’s aunt, Mrs. Sidney Naliboff on January 30 at 6:30 p.m.

The bride’s gown was of blue lace worn with a white flowered hat.  She carried a bouquet of gardenias and carnations.  Immediately following the ceremony a reception was held in the North Park Lion’s Club.

Upon returning from their wedding trip the young couple will continue their studies at State College where the bride is enrolled as a sophomore and the groom as a senior.

 *

Personals
Southwestern Jewish Press February 6, 1954 Page 2

Honored—Joseph Schwartz, State Pharmacy boss and one of the few Jewish pharmacists in the city, will be installed Feb.6 as president of the San Diego County Pharmaceutical Association at a banquet in the Don Room of El Cortez Hotel.

Joe is quite proud of this honor especially because he is being installed by the famous Dr. Clifford L. Graves, well-known author and neurologist.

 A phone call at 11:00 p.m. is not generally considered the regular order of business and Irving Stone was especially  unprepared to hear his sister calling from San Diego.  Mr. and Mrs. Leonard J. Ehrlich flew in town from New York last week for a surprise visit with the Stones.  They plan to stay 2 or 3 weeks to soak up some of our climate.

We’re happy to welcome newcomers Mr. and Mrs. William Shier to our city.  Mr. and Mrs. Shier moved here from Chicago in December and are now making their home at 4632 Edgeware Rd.    They have two grown sons, both now serving with the Armed Forces.

New names can be added to the list of young couples in town now that Robert and Lucille Hirsch have moved down from San Francisco and are making their home with aunt and uncle, Abe and Ida Nasatir.  Robert will complete his last year at State College.

Dr. H. E. Wyloge formerly of St. Louis has opened an office at 3408 Fifth Ave. to practice chiropody.  Dr. Wyloge is related to several people in San Diego.  After being urged for four years by sisters Rose Greenberg, Sadie Schwartz, Esther Gardner, and nephew Stuart, and niece Audrey Penter, he was finally convinced by uncle Max Belenzon to move here.

On Sunday, Jan. 24, 17 couples gathered for dinner at the Park Manor Hotel to honor recently married Mr. and Mrs. Henry Raymor (Esther Levitt).  A coffee service was presented to the newlyweds. 

Following dinner, Mr. and Mrs. Harry Apelman entertained the entire party in their home.  Mrs. Raymor cut the very beautifully decorated wedding cake, baked by Mrs. Apelman.

Bar Mitzvah—Ross Gallen, son of Mr. and Mrs. Abraham Gallen, of El Centro will be called to the altar as a Bar Mitzvah on Feb. 27 by Rabbi Baruch Stern of Beth Jacob Synagogue.

Mrs. Goldie Shusterman leaves on Feb. 8 for New York to visit her niece, whom she hopes to bring back to San Diego.

There was more than the beverage to tempt the guests at the “coffee” which was held by sisters Mrs. Ben Cohen and Mrs. Wm. I. Gerelick of Coronado.  Fifty-five guests enjoyed the delicious repast prepared by the hostesses.  Mrs. Werner Lehmann of Coronado assisted in the pouring.

It could be done and Mrs. Saul Chenkin’s committee members were the ones who did it.  Doubling last year’s collections, over $3,000 was turned in to the March of Dimes this year.  Mrs. Chenkin wishes to publicly express her gratitude to Mr. Robert Strauss who has loyally aided the drive year after year by perm9itting collections to be made at Spreckels theatre.  Mrs. Robert Gordon and her active teen-age group came through as usual with flying colors.  Other women of the community who represented organizations were Mesdames Edward Baranov, A. J. Bard. Al Hutler and Leo L. Levitt.

Rabbi Morton J. Cohen was recently elected to serve as Treasurer to the Western Association of Reform Rabbis at the Annual Conference held in Coronado.

Mr. and Mrs. William Mintz wish to thank all their friends for their kind attentions, good wishes and prayers for her recovery during a recent illness.  Marian is a home now and would like to receive her friends.

Henry Weinberger was recently reelected to serve as one of the Trustees of the National Jewish Hospital of Denver.  He has been a member of the board to the past two years and will now serve a three year term.

Reversing the usual procedure of a surprise party, it was the guests who had the surprise when they arrived at the Rodin Horrows’ dinner party on January 30.  When the 100 guests arrived at the Don Room of El Cortes Hotel they realized by the beautiful and appropriate decorations that it was their hosts’25^th wedding anniversary.

Cradle
Southwestern Jewish Press February 6, 1954 Page 2

Mr. and Mrs. Charles Salik (Louise Ruzewick) announce the birth of a son, Mark Eliot, on January 30.  Giving evidence of developing into a half-back, the young husky weighed 8 lbs. 9 oz.  He joins 17 month old Jane Deborah in the Salik nursery.

Delighted at the news of his arrival are grandparents Julie Abraham, Mr. H. Ruzewick, Mr. and Mrs.David Salik of San Antonio, and great grandfather, Mr. Morris Abraham of Detroit.

 *

Women Organize to Aid Jewish Center
Southwestern Jewish Press February 6, 1954 Page 2

A new organization has been formed to assist the Jewish Community Center with its activities.  The group is called the Women’s League of the Jewish Community Center and the executive board comprises the following:  Rose Aved, Edith Bennett, Lilo Berger, Ruth Brav, “Goodie” Wixen, Edith Kitaen, Dorothy Penn, Audrey Sack, Ann Schloss, Lynn Schwartz, and Betty Adler.

The first activity of thus group will be a tea at the Jewish Community Center, Feb. 25 from 1 to 3:00 p;m. All women members of the Center are being invited.  Other women who are interested in assisting in this work should call AT-1-7744 for further information.
*

Beth Jacob “Fun Nite” Scheduled for February 28^th
Southwestern Jewish Press February 6, 1954 Page 3

Mrs. Marvin Bobrof, President, extends a most cordial welcome to the San Diego community for Fun Night, Sunday, February 28, at 8:00 p.m. at Beth Jacob Center.

Mrs. Max Strauss and Mrs. William Penn, co-chairmen, and their committees are planning a most gala event, with elaborate prizes and games.  Mrs. William Schustermann, chairman, Mrs. Robert Siegel, and Mrs. Sidney Rose, are in charge of refreshments.

 *

Beth Jacob News
Southwestern Jewish Press February 6, 1954 Page 3

Bible Discussion—An innovation in Friday evening services is the Bible Discussion every Friday evening at 8:15 p.m. led by Rabbi Baruch Stern.  The class has grown steadily and each week the English version of a chapter of the Bible is read. It is then explained and freely discussed.  All member and friends are sincerely urged to avail themselves of this golden opportunity of not only learning something but also enjoying themselves at the same time.  Oneg Shabbat and refreshments always follow.

Hadassah Sabbath–Hadassah will host the Oneg Shabbat at Beth Jacob Congregation on Friday, February 18, at 8:15 p.m.   The program will consist of a panel discussion on the controversial issue:  Since Israel is now an accomplished state, is it justifiable for Zionism to continue as an organization is America, or should it be substituted by an organization which would also include non-Zionists who desire to aid Israel?  Panelists will include Muriel Goldhammer, I.L. Domnitz, and Rabbi Baruch Stern.  Chickie Breier will act as moderator.

Ladies Card Party–The Beth Jacob Ladies Auxiliary will host a card party the last Thursday evening of every month.  Don’t forget.  The next one is February 25.  Bring your own cards and mahjong sets.

Valentine Party–Valentine Day is almost here and with it comes the Beth Jacob Men’s Club party.  The date is Saturday, February 20 at 8:30 p.m. at Beth Jacob Center.  There will be a live orchestra, valentine favors, cocktails, and refreshments.  Admission is $1 per person.  Members, friends, and guests are invited to attend.

Tifereth Israel Sisterhood Presents Outstanding Program February 9^th
Southwestern Jewish Press February 6, 1954 Page 3

An outstanding program has been prepared for the Sisterhood Tea, which will take place on Tuesday, February 9, at 1:30 p.m. in the Synagogue.

In observance of Brotherhood Month, a panel of four clergymen will present a discussion on the subject, ”Living together Successfully.” Members of the panel will include:  The Rev. Charles Severns of the University Christian Church; the Rev. Jack Fix, of the First Evangelical United Brethern Church; Rabbi Morton Cohn of Temple Beth Israel; and the Rev. Calvin Osborn of the Seventh Day Adventist Church. 

A special invitation has been issued to the six women’s organizations of those churches.  A large representation of the following women’s groups is expected:  Dorcas Society, Home Makers Women’s Service Guild, Christian Women’s Fellowship, and Beth Israel Sisterhood. 

The presentation of the Panel will be in an informal and extemporaneous style, with Rabbi Monroe Levens acting as moderator.  An open forum will follow with questions and comments invited from the audience.

A Tea will follow the program honoring the invited guests.  Mrs. Sidney Newman is chairman.  Mrs. Warren Ogelsby and Mrs. Alex Newman will pour.  Mrs. G. Wixen is in charge of decorations.

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The family of Mrs. Anna Shelley wishes to thank her many friends for their kind wishes during their bereavement.

Mr. and Mrs. Harry Klaskin, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph J. Kaplan, Mr. and Mrs. Zel Camiel, Mr. and Mrs. Morris Douglas, Mr. and Mrs. Morton Thaler, Mr. and Mrs. Milton Rawdin.

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“Adventures in Jewish History” is sponsored by Inland Industries Group LP in memory of long-time San Diego Jewish community leader Marie (Mrs. Gabriel) Berg. Our indexed “Adventures in San Diego Jewish History” series will be a daily feature until we run out of history.

“ What better way to tell time than through the body of content.”

This quote was based on a suggestion made by Michelangelo, from the book: The Agony and Ecstasy (author Irving Stone).

A good thought to keep in mind. Especially when frustrated by the rapid passage of time.   Can you relate?

We will not be remembered by what we didn’t accomplish in this lifetime, but rather by what we did. I think having a blog is a very good start or addition to anyone’s personal, creative record of accomplishments.

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I hope you also enjoy another one of my recent Autumn photos. The colors have remained so vivid this year. This pic was taken just a couple of weeks ago. We had snow yesterday but it’s already melted away.

Geneza

Un simplu gest. Totusi e greu sa il privesti fara sa te incerce emotia. Un scriitor englez, Irving Stone, a gasit in titlul cartii sale despre Michelangelo esenta acelui ceva pe care Dumnezeu il transmite lui Adam.

Priviti-l pe stramosul nostru comun. E inca trufas ca un copil si nestiutor ca va primi darul de a alege intre a produce abominabile atrocitati sau a sluji binele si pe semeni, de a cadea in genunea agoniei sau de a se inalta pe culmile extazului.

Michelangelo putea sa picteze doar scena asta si sa zaca precum un trantor toata viata. L-am fi tinut minte oricum.

I decided not to go see Harry Potter and The Half Blood Prince. I got it wrong in that I thought this was the last movie. I got it wrong probably from all the movie releases, book releases that happened previously. Plus the last movie has been split up into two movies coming out in 2010 and 2011. They just can’t let it go, they are greedy for more money. Plus I don’t really like the ending anyway, it is wimpy just like the scar on his forehead.

I have been saving lots of money. First, I have been saving money from having my own washer and dryer. Then, I have been saving money from not buying a Sunday paper. I thought I would really miss not having a Sunday paper but I’m not. Lastly I have been saving money on my food bill. I almost cut it in half. I shop for groceries and make them last two weeks not one week. So far so good.

I missed a TV show last Sunday so I decided to go to the network’s website to see if I could watch it on my computer. Well, even though I don’t have high speed Internet watching the show went well. One downer is that you still have to see commercials. I am going to do this more in the future, especially if there are two shows I want to watch at the same time.

I an on tenterhooks waiting for a response to a job I applied for last week. ‘Course I could be waiting for up to six weeks. That is the longest amount of time between applying to the job and getting an interview. The shortest amount of time has been recieving a call the very next day.

Last winter I was thinking about how I could stop up the huge draft under the door. I started looking at things I could buy to fix this problem but they were all too expensive. So I sat on it.  One wash day I washed my mattress cover pad and then I put it in the dryer. Well, the dryer ended up being too hot and kind of melted it a bit. So I couldn’t use it for a mattress pad anymore. Then, when I was about to toss it out I had an epiphany. I could use this for blocking the cold and hot air coming in from the big gap at the bottom of the door.

So then I was thinking how I could do this. Should I get a piece of material and sew one? But, I sat on it. I nixed getting the material. I had to think up some other solution. So I kept thinking and thinking and weeks went by. Finally I decided that the pantyhose I had used for packing material when I moved would be just the thing. I could stuff the pad into the hose. Bingo and I wouldn’t have to sew anything. I started looking for the pantyhose hoping I hadn’t thrown it out. The first place I looked the pantyhose wasn’t there. I was thinking about another place I could look. But, what’s this? I found something else.

I bought a chair to sit in while I was waiting for my stuff to arrive from the moving company. The chair was very inexpensive and folded up. There was a bag to carry the chair in. That is what I found while looking for the pantyhose. I am not using the chair now because it broke. It lasted more time than it should have so I got my money out of it. Low and behold the bag was just the right length for the door! So I rolled up the mattress pad and stuffed it in the bag. Whoo Hoo!!! I closed the end with the fastener and voila!! I had something without having to sew and without having to buy some material!!! Plus the bag has a handle and I can pick it up and move it easily when I open the door.

I have been reading and the books I have read are: Endless Universe by Paul J Steinhardt and Neil Turok, Angels & Demons by Dan Brown and The Bourne Sanction by Eric Van Lustbader. I am currently reading Clarence Darrow For The Defense by Irving Stone. I read Angels & Demons immediately after reading Endless Universe. I highly recommend reading these two back to back just like I did. After you read them you will see why. One is a good segue into the other. Most of the books I am reading I already have read and kept because I liked them. All I have to do is look in my boxes for books to read.

The revered sage Frank Sinatra once said, “The best revenge is massive success.”

He never spoke a truer word, particularly when it comes to aspiring authors who, after suffering severe smackdowns from publishers, went on to become renowned writers.

Think this has happened to only a select few? Guess again. Cast your eye upon this list of Cinderella authors (and the nasty little notes publishers sent them) and savor the taste of their sweet, sweet revenge.

1. Stephen King

Mr. King received dozens of rejections for his first novel, Carrie; he kept them tidily nailed to a spike under a timber in his bedroom.

One of the publishers sent Mr. King’s rejection with these words:

We are not interested in science fiction which deals with negative utopias. They do not sell.

2. William Golding

Mr. Golding’s Lord of the Flies was rejected by 20 publishers.  One denounced the future classic with these words (which should be inscribed on the hapless publisher’s tomb):

an absurd and uninteresting fantasy which was rubbish and dull.

3. John le Carré

After Mr. le Carré submitted his first novel, The Spy Who Came in From the Cold, one of the publishers sent it along to a colleague, with this message:

You’re welcome to le Carré – he hasn’t got any future.

4. Anne Frank

According to one publisher, The Diary of Anne Frank was scarcely worth reading:

The girl doesn’t, it seems to me, have a special perception or feeling which would lift that book above the ‘curiosity’ level.

15 publishers (other than this dope) also rejected The Diary of Anne Frank.

5. Joseph Heller

In an act of almost unparalled stupidity, one publisher wrote of Mr. Heller’s Catch-22:

I haven’t the foggiest idea about what the man is trying to say…Apparently the author intends it to be funny – possibly even satire – but it is really not funny on any intellectual level.

6. J.K. Rowling

Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s (later Sorceror’s) Stone was rejected by a dozen publishers, including biggies like Penguin and HarperCollins. Bloomsbury, a small London publisher, only took it on at the behest of the CEO’s eight-year old daughter, who begged her father to print the book. God bless you, sweetheart.

7. Ursula K. Le Guin

One publisher sent this helpful little missive to Ms. Le Guin regarding her novel, The Left Hand of Darkness:

The book is so endlessly complicated by details of reference and information, the interim legends become so much of a nuisance despite their relevance, that the very action of the story seems to be to become hopelessly bogged down and the book, eventually, unreadable. The whole is so dry and airless, so lacking in pace, that whatever drama and excitement the novel might have had is entirely dissipated by what does seem, a great deal of the time, to be extraneous material. My thanks nonetheless for having thought of us. The manuscript of The Left Hand of Darkness is returned herewith.

The Left Hand of Darkness went on to win both the Hugo and the Nebula awards.

8. George Orwell

One publisher rejected Mr. Orwell’s submission, Animal Farm, with these words:

It is impossible to sell animal stories in the USA.

9. Tony Hillerman

Mr. Hillerman, now famous for his Navajo Tribal Police mystery novels, was initially told by publishers to

Get rid of all that Indian stuff.

10. William Faulkner

One publisher exclaimed in the rejection letter for Mr. Faulkner’s book, Sanctuary:

Good God, I can’t publish this!

11. John Grisham

Mr. Grisham’s first novel, A Time to Kill, was rejected by a dozen publishers and 16 agents before breaking into print and launching Mr. Grisham’s best-selling career.

12. Vladimir Nabokov

Mr. Nabokov’s Lolita was greeted by one publisher with these words:

…overwhelmingly nauseating, even to an enlightened Freudian…the whole thing is an unsure cross between hideous reality and improbable fantasy. It often becomes a wild neurotic daydream…I recommend that it be buried under a stone for a thousand years.

13. Sylvia Plath

According to one publisher, Ms. Plath’s ability as a poet was nothing special:

There certainly isn’t enough genuine talent for us to take notice.

14. ee cummings

Mr. Cummings’ first work, The Enormous Room, was rejected by 15 publishers. He eventually self-published the book and it went on to become considered a masterpiece of modern poetry. The kicker? He dedicated the book to the 15 publishers who rejected him. Ouch.

15. Irving Stone

Mr. Stone’s Lust for Life was rejected 16 times, once with this helpful synopsis:

A long, dull novel about an artist.

The book went on to sell over 25 million copies.

16. Rudyard Kipling

I’m sorry Mr. Kipling, but you just don’t know how to use the English language.

These were the words used by one of the editors of the San Francisco Examiner newspaper when rejecting one of Mr. Kipling’s short stories. Mr. Kipling is now a revered author and the San Francisco Examiner is….

17. Frank Herbert

Dune was rejected 20 times before successfully reaching print – and becoming one of the most beloved science fiction novels of all time (#3 on my list of favorite books ever).

18. Richard Adams

Mr. Adams’ Watership Down was rejected since

Older children wouldn’t like it because its language was too difficult.

19. Madeleine L’Engle

Ms. L’Engle’s A Wrinkle in Time was rejected by 26 publishers before finally breaking into print. It went on to win the 1963 Newbery Medal.

20. Jack Kerouac

This was one publisher’s take on Mr. Kerouac’s On the Road:

His frenetic and scrambled prose perfectly express the feverish travels of the Beat Generation.  But is that enough?  I don’t think so.

21. Margaret Mitchell

Ms. Mitchell’s Gone With the Wind was rejected 38 times before finally finding a publisher.

22. Judy Blume

Ms. Blume received “nothing but rejections” for two years.

According to Ms. Blume:

I would go to sleep at night feeling that I’d never be published. But I’d wake up in the morning convinced I would be. Each time I sent a story or book off to a publisher, I would sit down and begin something new. I was learning more with each effort. I was determined. Determination and hard work are as important as talent.

Determination and hard work certainly did the trick for Ms. Blume, who is now considered to be one of the most influential children’s literature writers of her generation.

23. Kenneth Grahame

Mr. Grahame’s Wind in the Willows was refused by a publisher because it was an

Irresponsible holiday story

24. Isaac Bashevis Singer

One jaded publisher rejected a submission of Mr. Singer’s with the words:

It’s Poland and the rich Jews again.

25. Marcel Proust

Mr. Proust’s behemoth Remembrance of Things Past received this delightfully plain-spoken critique from one publisher:

My dear fellow, I may be dead from the neck up, but rack my brains as I may I can’t see why a chap should need thirty pages to describe how he turns over in bed before going to sleep.

26. Jasper Fforde

Mr. Fforde received 76 rejection letters before finally seeing his first novel, The Eyre Affair, in print. The Eyre Affair is now considered a classic of the modern fantasy genre.

27. Meg Cabot

The Princess Diaries slipped through the hands of 17 publishers before finally being accepted for publication.

28. Thor Heyderdahl

Mr. Heyerdahl’s classic adventure narrative, The Kon Tiki Expedition, was rejected 20 times before finding a publisher.

29. Jorge Luis Borges

One publisher rejected Mr. Borges’ work because it was:

utterly untranslatable.

30. D.H. Lawrence

After reading Mr. Lawrence’s Lady Chatterley’s Lover, one publisher warned:

for your own sake do not publish this book.

Check out the original posting here:

http://www.examiner.com/x-562-Book-Examiner~y2009m3d19-20-famous-authors-who-were-rejected-repeatedly-and-sometimes-rudely-by-publishers