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Writings about Rabbi Monroe Levens

-1949-

April 1949—
Bobbie Solomon, "Collegiates N' Intermejits," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 17: Staring enchanted (or perhaps simply in a state of coma) a number of musical devotees...high brows all..were spied at the Russ Auditorium Monday eve (March 21) listening to violinist Joseph Szigeti's performance. Among those music lovers...we must include the perennially young Rabbi Morton Cohn and his wife, Sally, Mr. and Mrs. Fred Weitzen, Rabbi Monroe Levens and Mr. and Mrs. Morrie Krause, whom we spied chatting in the lobby during the intermissions...

May 1949—1) Lou Mogy, "Sports around Town," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 5: ...Seen at one of the popular kosher eating places (Vernon's Delicatessen) were Rabbi Monroe Levens, Chub Silver, George Gottlieb, Bea Townes....

2) "Red Borscht," "Nu," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 5: The seder display at Walker's...one of the finest single pulic relations efforts...a beautiful pictorial story...the sidewalk enraptured by its graphic simplicity...an orchid to Rabbi Levens for effecting and to George Scott for sponsoring the above.

August 1949—1) "Hurwitz-Feinberg Troth Announced," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 3: Miss Barbara Jean Feinberg, attractive daughter of Mr. and MRs. Nathan Feinberg, 5023 College Avenue, will become the bride of Maynard Hurwitz, son of Mr. and Mrs. David Hurwitz of 3956 33rd Street, on Sunday August 21, 1949.  The ceremony will be performed at home at 5.00 p.m. by Rabbi Monroe Levens in the presence of their immediate families.

2) (separate, no headline), Southwestern Jewish Press, page 3: Rabbi and Mrs. Monroe Levens and their sons are vacationing in San Francisco and points north. The Levens will be away for about three weeks.

3) "Harry Shapiro Passing Mourned," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 4: Mr. Harry Shapiro, well known San Diego merchant, passed away suddenly on July 18, 1949. ..Services were held on Tuesday July 195h from Lewis Colonial Mortuary with Rabbi Monroe Levens officiating. Burial was at the Home of Peace Cemetery. The deceased is survived by his wife, Mania Shapiro, and by cousins...

September 1949—"Saul-Weis Wedding," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 8: Congregation Tifereth Israel was the scene last Sunday of a beautiful summer wedding when Miss Shirley Weis, daughter of Mrs. M. Weis of Boston, Massachusetts, gave her hand in marriage to Oscar Saul, son of Mrs. M. Saul of San Diego. Rabbi Monroe Levens united the couple in a ceremony performed at 1:00 p.m., Sunday, September 4, 1949, in the presence of 400 guests. The Synagogue was attractively decorated with white gladioli and white carnations for the occasion...

October 1949—"Institute Classes Open on Oct. 12th," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 4: Dr. A.P. Nasatir, dean of the Institute of Jewish Studies, announces that classes will officially begin on Wednesday, October 12th at 7:45 p.m. at the Temple Center, 3rd and Laurel Streets. Classes offered are: Beginning and Advanced Hebrew, History of Jewish Phylosophy (sic), Yiddish Literature, Biblical Literature, American Jewish History, Jewish Marriage and the Family, "What's Cooking" in Judaism, and Great Jewish Books. The Institute is in its second year. Members of the Faculty are Rabbi Morton J. Cohn, Rabbi Monroe Levens, Rabbi Baruch Stern, Dr. A.P. Nasatir; Mrs. A. Neumann; Mrs. Harris Rubel; Mrs. Isaac Domnitz, Dr. Harry Ruja, Mr. Al Hutler and Mrs. Nasatir. Adult Jewish Studies are sponsored by the Jewish Education Commission of San Diego.

November 14, 1949—
"Jewish Institute Opens for Registration," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 8: With one hundred and sixty adults registered for the Institute of Jewish Studies, the second year of the joint project of three synagogues and the United Jewish Fund indicates that it will be more successful than last year's Institute, according to Dr. A.P. Nasatir, Dean. At the Registration Rally, which was addressed by Dr. Dinnen, Executive Director of the Board of Jewish Education of Los Angeles, 175 people were in attendance...Classes formally opened on October 12, with all the courses well attended. Courses are being offered in Beginning and Advanced Hebrew, Modern Jewish History, American Jewish History, What's Cooking in Judaism, Contemporary Israel, Biblical Literature, Jewish Marriage and Family Life, Comparative Religion and Great Jewish Books. Members of the faculty who have given their time without pay are Rabbi Baruch Stern, Rabbi Morton Cohn, Rabbi Monroe Levens, Dave Abramis, Dr. A.P. Nasatir, and Dr. Harry Ruja of State College, Albert A. Hutler of the United Jewish Fund. Irwin J. Wohl of the Community Center is acting as Registrar, I.L Domnitz, Mrs. Al Neumann, Mrs. Harris Rubel and Mrs. Nasatir who has the Great Books course. Registration is still open in several courses.

November 18, 1949—
"35th Anniversary Observed by Jolly 16," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 6: Autumn colors and candlelight set the mod for the Jolly Sixteen 35th Anniversary Dinner-Dance held at the El Cortez Hotel on Sunday evening November 6th.  One hundred and ninety five people entered the Don Room ...Beautifully gowned women and their handsome escorts were greeted by members of the Jolly Sixteen.... Rabbi Morton Cohn of Temple Beth Israel gave the invocation. Ida Nasatir was Toastmistress and in her own inimitable style gave the history of the Jolly Sixteen. An impressive candlelighting ceremony was enacted by Bress Breitbard, Julia Neumann, Freda Nestor, Ida Lipinsky and Rose Neumann.  Each represented 20 to 30 years of individual service to the Jolly Sixteen.. Highlight of the evening was the presentation of a check for $1500.00 to the Hebrew Home for the Aged. This sum represents the proceeds from the sale of Jolly Sixteen Cook Books, consisting of recipes received from women in the community and compiled and edited by Mary Kantor...Sam Addleson, Pres. of the Hebrew Home, accepted the gift...Rabbi Mornoe Levens of Tifereth Israel Synagogue gave the closing prayer...

December 16, 1949—1)"'Home Beautiful' Program Impressive," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 1: Tifereth Israel Synagogue was the scene ofa most impressive program on Tuesday, December 13, the Jewish "Home Beautiful," a pageant presented by the Sisterhood, in cooperation with the synagogue and its affiliates, as attended by more than 600 people.  Mrs. A.P. Nasatir was the narrator and the various Jewish holidays were vividly portrayed with tableaus depicting the role of the woman in the house. The candle lighting ceremonies added a warm glow to the meaningful, living pictures of each festive occasion.  Mrs. Sidney Newman, president of the Sisterhood, announced that the proceeds of this affair would be donated to the building of a Hebrew school, in the names of Mrs. Abe Ratner, chairman of the program committee, and Mrs. Monroe Levens, wife of Rabbi Levens. More than 85 persons were involved in the production of this successful undertaking.  The artistry displayed in costumes and decorations drew special commendation.  At the conclusion of the pageant, Rabbi Levens invited the guests to partake of delicious refreshments, including the traditional latkes. This evening of inspiration will be long remembered and it is hoped that members of the community will emulate the beautiful scenes in their own homes —J. Kaufman.

2) "Philadelphians Wed Here Saturday," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 6: Miss Dorothy Goldberg of Philadelphia was married to Mr. Spencer Kohler of that same city in a simple ceremony performed by Rabbi Monroe Levens in Tifereth Israel Synagogue on Saturday evening, December 10, 1949.  The groom, who is an X-ray technician with the Mass Chest X-Ray Unit now working in San Diego, and his bride, who flew here to be married, were unattended. Guests at the ceremony included all of the technicians and crew of the X-ray units. A reception at the home of one of Mr. Kohler's co-workers followed. The newlyweds will continue traveling with the Units throughout the country.

3) (separate, no headline), Southwestern Jewish Press, page 6: Rabbi Levens, Mr. I. Jacobson, Mr. and Mrs. Irving Goodman and Mr. and Mrs Alex J. Newman were among the guests in Los Angeles at the Founders' Day Dinner of the University of Judaism on Sunday night, December 4th, which honored the great educator, Dr. Mordecai Kaplan.

December 30, 1949—1) "Rebecca Schreibman Passed Away Dec. 15," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 3: Mrs. Rebecca Schreibman, who resided at 3727 37th Street, passed away on Thursday, December 15, 1949, after a short illness, Mrs. Schreeibman, a native of Russia, haad lived in San Diego for 29 years. Services were conducted from Lewis Colomial Mortuary on Friday, December 16th, with Rabbi Monroe Levens officiating. Interment was in the Home of Peace Cemetery...

2)"Inez Horowitz To become Bride," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 4: On January 8, 1950, at 2:30 p.m., Inez Horowitz will be wed to Merrill Jacobson. Rabbi Monroe Levens will officiate at the Tifereth Israel Synagogue, 30th and Howard...

3)"Segal-Oppenheim Nuptials Held," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 4: The marriage of Miss Regene Oppenheim and Mr. Hirsch Segal was solemnized by Rabbi Monroe Levens on Sunday, December 18th, at the home of the bride in Mission Hills...

4) "Daughters of Israel," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 6, an acrostic:

Rewarded and respected his efforts be
Attentive to duty and conscientious is he
Best sermons are his aim; his congregation to please
Blessings be upon him for his sincerity and good deeds
Inspiring and interesting his sermons you'll find

Making a wonderful impression on his listeners' minds
On any occasion as the case may be
Naught but food facts he'll make us see
Remarkable is the place
On 30th and Howard
Enthusiastically he is greeted by a wonderful crowd.

Life long happiness be his share
Enriched with good health and never a care
Very best of luck we wish him always
Enlightend are we since his stay
Never absent is he, rain or hail
Surely with such a leader our shul ill not fail
Sophie Gaber

5) "Congregation Tifereth Israel," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 8: Installation ceremonies for the newly elected officers and board members of Congregation Tifereth Israel and its affiliate, the Daughters of Israel, were held Thursday, December 29th, at the Synagogue.  Following the opening ceremonies, Rabbi Levens, as Installing Officer, spoke on the services rendered to the Congregation by the outgoing officers and board members He pointed out that with the leadership of this group, Tifereth Israel Synagogue has, during the past year, enjoyed remarkable progress, telescoping at least five years of growth into one. He also scored the great strides made in membership, in Religious Service attendance, in religious education, in Youth work, recreational and social activities, and in inter-faith and general Community participation.... The installation of the newly elected officers and board members of the Daughters of Israel followed.... Before delivering the benediction, Rabbi Levens offered his thanks to the congregation for their sincere and wholehearted support of his efforts on behalf of the synagogue program, especially emphasizing the outstanding expressions of loyalty and backing which he received....


Monroe Levens, circa 1950

-1950-

January 13, 1950—
1) "Institute to Feature Course in Mental Hygiene," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 1: Featuring three new courses, the Institute of Jewish Studies will open the second semester on Wednesday, January 11, at the Temple Center. Dr. A.P. Nasatir, Dean, announced the opening of new courses in "Mental Hygiene Problems of the Jewish Family," "Jewish Music and Art," and the "Contemporary Jewish Scene." Courses will be continued in Advanced Hebrew, Contemporary Religions, cooking, Basic Judaism, Modern Jewish History, Literature of the Bible, Talmud and Book Reviews. "Mental Hygiene Problems" will be conducted by Dr. Irving R. Stone, senior clinical psychologist, San Diego state Mental Hygiene Clinic.. The course will have as visiting lecturers Dr. Benjamin B. Faguet, chief psychiatrist of the clinic; Mary Lou Prawl, Nevin Wiley and William Long, psychiatric social workers; Dr. Jack Levitt, psychiatrist, and Professor Oscar Kaplan, associate professor of psychology, San Diego State College.  Other courses will be taught by rabbis Morton J. Cohn, Monroe Levens and Baruch Stern, Dr. A.P. Nasatir, Dov Abramis, Professor Ernest Wolf, Albert A. Hutler, Professor Harry Ruja, Mrs. Al Neumann and Mrs. Harris Rubel. Registration will continue thru Wednesday, January 18, and may be made on that evening or by calling F-0171. The Institute of Jewish Studies is sponsored by the Jewish Education Commission made up of Temple Beth Israel, Tifereth Israel Synagogue, Beth Jacob Synagogue and the United Jewish Fund of San Diego.

2) "Rabbinical Assembly to Meet Here," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 1: Rabbi Monroe Levens announced today that the Tifereth Israel Synagogue will be host to the Annual Conference of Southern California Region of the Rabbinical Assembly of America. Over twenty rabbis will meet in San Diego on January 23-25, at which time they will devote themselves to a consideration of the problems factng Jewish life as a whole and the Southern California areas in particular. Dr. Jacob Kohn of Temple Sinai in Los Angeles is President of the Region and will preside at the sessions. Keynote speaker for the Conference will be Dr. David Aronson, president of the Rabbinical Assembly of America, the national association of the Conservative rabbis. Dr. Aronson is now serving as visiting professor at the University of Judaism (West Coast branch of the Jewish Theological Seminary of America) in Los Angeles.  Dr. Aronson is the author of the book The Jewish Way of Life and is noted as one of the outstanding and brilliant members of the American rabbinate.

3) "Addlesons to Celebrate Golden Anniversary," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 4: Mr. and Mrs. Louis Addleson of 3211 30th Street will celebrate their Golden Wedding Anniversary on Sunday, January 15, 1950. A celebration in their honor is being tendered the couple by their children at the El Cortez Hotel Sunday evening at 8 p.m....The reception...is expected to attract more than 300 well-wishers. A 50th anniversary wedding ceremony will be the highlight of the evening. Rabbi Monroe Levens of the Tifereth Israel Synagogue will officiate.

4) "Mrs. Beitelman Passes at 71," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 4: Mrs. Hannah Beitelman passed away Monday, January 9, 1950, at the age of 71. Mrs. Beitelman resided at the San Diego Hebrew Home for the aged. Services were conducted from Lewis Colonial Mortuary on Tuesday, January 10th at 1:00 p.m. with Rabbi Monroe Levens officiating. Interment was at the Home of Peace Cemetery.  Surviving Mrs. Beitelman are her two daughters, Mrs. Maurice Zahalsky of 4094 Central Ave., San Diego, and Mrs. Dave Shapiro, 351 D Ave., Coronado.

5) "Steckel-Weiner Nuptials Held," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 4: "The marriage of Miss Dorothy Weiner and Mr. Harold Steckel was solemnized by Rabbi Monroe Levens at 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 31, at the Tifereth Israel Synagogue. The bride is the daughter of rabbi Jacob Glassman of Scranton, Pennsylvania, and the groom's father is Mr. Louis Steckel, formerly of Scranton, who is now residing in Los Angeles. Following the ceremony the bridal party and Rabbi Levens ushered in the New Year by attending the San Diego Guardians Dinner-Dance at the El Cortez Hotel.

January 27, 1950—1) "Junior Matrons," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 7:  The Junior Matrons will hold their installation of officers on January 31st at Valle's at 12:30.  Rabbi Monroe Levens will be the guest speaker and will install the following officers: President, Mr. Martin Borenstein, Vice President, Mrs. George Burnett; Corresponding Secretary, Mrs. Morris Wax; Recording Secretary, Mrs. David Sugerman; Treasurer, Mrs. George Starr. Appointed officers are Ways and Means Chairman, Mrs. Philip Rand; Social Service Chairman, Mrs. Jack Stern.

2) "Tifereth Israel Synagogue," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 8. Tifereth Israel Synagogue was host to the convention of the Rabbinical Assembly of America, West Coast Region, January 23-25. On Monday evening a superb dinner was served by the daugthers of Israel to the fifteen visiting rabbis, representing Conservative congregations of Southern California. Rabbi Jacob Kohn of Temple Sinai, Los Angeles, opened the meeting. The main address of the opening meeting was delivered by Dr. David Aronson, national president of the Rabbinical Assembly of America and professor at the University of Judaism. Rabbi Aronson stated that secular Judaism was on its way out. He also stated that in order for Judaism to survive it would be necessary for the members of congregations to actively participate in Synagogue life. He underscored attendance at Sabbath services, preservation of the Jewish home and the study of Torah. The Rabbinical Assembly of America is a national association of Conservative rabbis, and is associated with the United Jewish Synagogue of America, the Jewish Theological Seminary of America, and its West Coast Branch, the University of Judaism.  Rabbi Monroe Levens, spiritual leader of Congregation Tifereth Israel Synagogue, stated that the convention honored San Diego in meeting here for the first time. The results of this meeting will be felt in synagogue congregations along the West Coast for many years to come. [Sabbath Services] Regular Friday evening services on January 27th at 8:15 p.m. will be conducted by David Levens in honor of his Bar Mitzvah. Rabbi Levens will deliver the sermon.

February 10, 1950—1) "Dr. T.R. Jackman To Speak," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 1: Dr. Theodore R. Jackman will speak at the NOrmal Heights Methodist Church, February 26th, at 9:00 p.m.on the work of the American Christian Palestine Committee...Sharing the platform with Dr. Jackman by invitation of Reverend E. Alexander Gray, will be Rabbi Monroe Levens, spiritual leader of Congregation Tifereth Israel....

2) "Ann Strickman Becomes Bride," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 4:  Ann Libby Strickman became the bride of Roy Milton Fagelson at a double ring ceremony on February5th, 5;00 p.m. at the Tifereth Israel Synagogue, Rabbi Monroe Levens officiated...

3) "Tifereth Israel Synagogue," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 8: Rabbi Monroe Levens announces that the sermon for Friday night services, February 10, will discuss the nature and the orgqanizational patterns of American Jewish life. The sermon is entitled "Toward a Creative Jewish Community." At the Oneg Shabbat following hte services, this subject will be discussed further....Sunday night at 7:30 the Young People's League will hear Rabbi Levens speak on the subject, "Art of Dating." Refreshments and dancing will follow.

February 24, 1950—1) "Allocations Committee Sets New Pattern," Southwestern Jewish Press, pages 1, 8: In an all day session of the 1950 Allocations Committee, held last Sunday at the El Cortez Hotel, a new precedent in disbursing monies to be raised was set for the San Diego Jewish Community. For the first time, budgeting has been done prior to the campaign so that the contributor will know how the money would be distributed. The committee consisting of members of the Board of Directors of the Fund, organization presidents and members at large, formulated a pattern for the distribution of  money raised in the 1950 campaign.  Sol Price, chairman of the committee, announced that of the first $150,000 raised, 83 percent was allocated for the United Jewish Appeal and other Israel overseas agencies, 10 percent to local agencies and 7 percent to national agencies. Of the next $50,000, 95 percent to the United Jewish Appeal and other overseas and Israel agencies, and 5 percent to national agencies.  All over this amount would go to the United Jewish Appeal. According to Price's announcement the following organizations will be beneficiaries of the 1950 campaign: United Jewish Appeal, Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society, Jewish Telegraphic Agency, American Friends of the Hebrew University, American Committee for the Weizmann Institute of Science, American Technion Society, American Fund for Israel Institutions, National Committee for Labor Israel (Histadrut), City of Hope—JCRA, Jewish Committee for Personal Service, Leo M. Levi Memorial Hospital, American Jewish Congress, Jewish Labor Committee, Joint Defense Appeal, B'nai B'rith National Youth Services Appeal; Yiddish Scientific Institute, American Association for Jewish Education, Jewish War Veterans of the United States, National Jewish Welfare Board, Synagogue Council of  America, Training Bureau of Communal Service, Hebrew Theological College, Jewish Theological Seminary, American Hebrew Congregations, Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America, Yeshiva University. The Allocations Committee heard Mr. Moritz Gottlieb, lay leader of Allentown, Pa., representing the United Jewish Appeal, state that in 1949 San Diego, in giving 88 percent of the monies raised through the United Jewish Appeal, had done an outstanding job and that there were not too many communities which had shouldered their responsibilities as well. Rabbi Leonard Greenberg, Los Angeles , spoke for the American Jewish Congress. Histadrut's spokesman was Sol Goodman, while Murray Goodrich represented the American Fund for Israel Institutions. Henry Weinberger presented the case for B'nai B'rith Youth Service Appeal.  Members of the Allocations Committee, besides Price, were Victor Schulman, Rose Neumann, Henry Weinberger, Ben Harris, Ben Feinberg, Harry Engel, Sol Goodman, Mrs. Dora Richlin, M.S. Berlin, Seymour Rabin, William B. Schwartz, M.W. Douglas, Lou Mogy, Sam Addleson, Alex J. Newman, Rodin S. Horrow, Abe Sackheim, Mrs. Gabriel Berg, Mrs. Sidney Goldhammer, Maxwell Kaufman, Rabbi Monroe Levens, Sam Slayen, Morris Neiderman, E.R. Bland, Sam Sosna, Dr. William Ornstein, Lew Pollack, Dr. David Miller, Dr. A.P. Nasatir, Frank Winicki, Rabbi Baruch Stern, Rabbi Morton J. Cohn, Morry Kraus, Nate Schiller, Edward Kitaen, Richard Levi and Carl Esenoff.

2) "S.D. Birdie Stodel B'nai Brith, Chapter No. 92," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 6: ...Rose Aved, chairman of the Anti-Defamation League of B'nai B'rith reported receiving a supply of educational and instructive pamphlets on the subject of anti-defamation. These are to be distributed to members who will read and report on its contents at future meetings.  In this way, all members will benefit and it is hopeed the lessons learned can be used to promote better human relations among all Americans. In conjunction with Brotherhood Week, Mrs. Aved together with the ADL chairman of S.D. Bay City Chapter are planning the program for the joint affair to be held on Feb. 28th at Tifereth Israel to which all members are urged to attend bringing their Jewish as well as non-Jewish friends. Rabbi Monroe Levens and Rev. Kenneth Ferguson will be the principal speakers...

3) "Tifereth Israel Synagogue," Southwestern Jewish Press, pages 6, 8: Purim Services —The Young People's League will conduct the Purim Service, Friday evening, February 24th. Rabbi Monroe Levens will add his remarks. Following the services a Youth Oneg Shabbat will be held served by the daughters of Israel... Your Date for Saturday Night —The Daughters of Israel are anxious to purchase a Utility Cart, which is urgently needed for our kitchen. Mrs. Louis Addleson, in honor of her recent Golden Wedding Anniversary, will be hostess at a Card Party, which will be held Saturday night Feb. 25th, at the Synagogue. here is your chance to enjoy a pleasant evening with good refreshments and help a worthwhile project...


4) "Defy Income Tax Blues!" Southwestern Jewish Press, page 6: Using "Fashions that Survive Income tax" as the theme of their program for the afternoon, the Tifereth Israel Sisterhood will hold their third annual installation of officers on Tuesday, March 14, at 1`2 o'clock luncheon at the synagogue at 30th and Howard Streets.  Rabbi Monroe Levens will install new officers.  An original humorous skit presented by Mrs. Zel Greenberg, Mrs. Sam Sklar and Mrs. Julius Levine will introduce the cleverly planned "Fashions to Survive Income Tax" style show to be presented by Ballard and Brockett...The program is under the chairmanship of Mrs. Monroe Levens and Mrs. Abe Ratner, assisted by Mrs. Its Penter...



March 10, 1950—1) "Birdie Stodel B'nai B'rith Chapt. No. 92," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 6: .."Brotherhood Week" as celebrated on the evening of Feb. 27th at Tifereth Israel Synagogue by both Women's Chapters was highly successful. The program planned by both ADL chairmen, Rose Aved of Birdie Stodel and Betty Sugarman of Bay City, was stimulating and provocative. Movies on the theme of "Brotherhood" and "Tolerance" were most enjoyable and the talks of Rev.(Kenneth) Ferguson and Rabbi Levens held the capacity audience in rapt attention...

2) "Tifereth Israel News," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 7: ...The service Friday evening will begin at 8:15 p.m. Rabbi Levens will deliver the sermon. An Oneg Shabbat will follow at which Mr. and Mrs. M.J. Hershey will preside as hosts honoring their twentieth wedding anniversary. Assisting hostesses will be the Mmes. Lillian Newman, Ruth Newman, Hilda DeSure, Lee Greenberg, Sara Shelley, and Libby Teacher. In honor of their simcha, Mr. and Mrs. Hershey will contribute the pulpit flowers...Tifereth Israel's Young People's League, for all youth of Senior High Age, will have its regular meeting Sunday evening, March 12th, at 7:00 p.m. They will be joined by the Young People's group of the First Church of Brethern, who will be present in the Synagogue to hear Rabbi Levens discuss and demonstrate Jewish customs and ceremonials. Several moving pictures of mutual interest to all will be shown. All are cordially invited...

3) "Tifereth Israel Sisterhood," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 7: In tune with the times, the Tifereth Israel Sisterhood program theme "Fashions to Survive Income Tax" will be presented at their annual installation of officers March 14th—a 12:30 p.m. luncheon at the Synagogue, 30th and Howard. Rabbi Monroe Levens is to offiiate in seating the following officers: Mesdames Sidney Newman, reelected President for the ensuing year; Herman Sarfan, 1st Vice President; Edward Cantor, 2nd Vice President; Sidney Smith, 3rd Vice President; Henry Price, Corresponding Secretary; Marco Ratner, Recording Secretary; Herman Tulchinsky, Treasurer; Lawrence Cantor, Financial Secretary; Zel Greenberg and Alex Newman, Parliamentarians; Moss Addleson, Auditor; and Board Members Sam Addleson, Wm. Breitbard, David Frank, Sam Geller, Sidney Goldstein, Moe Hershey, Julius Levine, Harry Mallen, Wm. Moss, Paul Nestor, Frank Pomeranz, Itz Penter, Abe Ratner, Woodrow Ratner, Harris Rubel, S. Rubin, Abe Sackheim, Sara Shelley, Joe Spatz, I. Teacher, Harry Wax, Harry Weisberg with Mrs. Monroe Levens and Mrs. Al Neuman as Honorary Members...

4)"Bay City Chapter Bnai Brith," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 9: Monday evening, February 27th at Tifereth Israel the San Diego Bay City Chapter joined with Birdie Stodel Chapter and presented an outstanding program in observance of National Brotherhood Week. The inspiring messages of brotherhood as presented by Rev. Kenneth Ferguson of St. Luke's Episcopal Church, and Rabbi Monroe Levens will be long remembered by all who attended....

March 28, 1950—1) "Personals," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 2: A delightful surprise party was given March 16th by the Board members and officers of the Daughters of Israel in honor of Ida Pearl who moved into her new home recently.  She has been recording secretary of the Daughters of Israel for the past six years. Guests at the party were Rabbi and Mrs. Levens, Mrs. Lillian Newman and Miss Merien Rose. A beautiful floor lamp was presented to the family.

2) "Tifereth Israel News," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 6: ...Sabbath Services—Regular Sabbath Morning Services took place at 9 a.m. The Junior Congregation met at 10 a.m. Sabbath Afternoon Services began at 5:15 p.m. The Mincha was followed by a social hour completing the Sholosh Suedos, at which time Rabbi Levens continued the study session in the Bible....Sisterhood Passover Institute and Seder--Mrs. Abe Ratner will sponsor a Passover Institute and Model Seder for the Tifereth Israel Sisterhood on Thursday night, March 30th. Following the regular business meeting, the women will assemble in the Vestry Room for a practical demonstration of the Passover Seder. Ceremonial foods and wine will be provided. Participating in the Sedere are: Blessing the Candles, Mrs. Ida Pearl; Kiddush, Mrs. Ruth Douglas; The Narration Begins, Mrs. Lucille Weisel; Four Questions (Hebrew) Mrs. Rose Neumann; Four Questions (English), Mrs. Kathrine Fleischner; The Answer From History, Mrs. Esther Addleson; Four Sons, Mmes. Jean Spatz, Jean Camiel, Freda Ruden, Trudie Haber; Three Symbols, Mmes Bess Breitbard, Dorothy Bokrass, Frances Moss; Message of the Nigh, Mrs. Sam Druskin; Responsive Reading, Mrs. Libby Teacher; Responsive Reading, Mrs. Sara Shelley. Musical selections will be offered by Mr. Norman Holzman. Rabbi Levens will conduct the service...

3) "Surprise for Rabbi Levens," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 10: March 14th was a big day for the Tifereth Israel Sisterhood. After a delicious luncheon, over 300 guests observed the Installation of Officers conducted by Rabbi Monroe Levens. He referred to the officers of the Sisterhood as members of a symphonic orchestra each one with a part to play and together creating symphonic harmony. The fashion show presented by Ballard and Brockett brought the ladies present the latest in spring fashions and judging by the comments they liked what they saw. The afternoon was climaxed by a surprise presentation to Rabbi and Mrs. Levens of a large oil painting of the Rabbi.  This beautiful work was done by Mrs. Al Doctor, a member of the Sisterhood.

April 14, 1950—1) "Levenson-Dembroff To Wed," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 2: On Sunday, April 16 at 2:30 p.m., Roberta Ann Dombroff will become the bride of Stanley Levenson in the Tifereth Israel Synagogue. Rabbi Monroe Levens will officiate....The bride is the daughter of MRs. Rhoda Dombroff of San Diego and Mr. Levenson is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Levenson also of this city...

2)"Second Anniversary of Israeli Independence To Be Celebrated," Southwestern Jewish Press, pages 4, 6: A day long program of celebration by the San Diego Jewish Community will mark the second anniversary of the rebirth of Israel which falls this year on April 3rd, the Fifth of Iyar. Festivities which will be initiated by the Cottage of Israel with a special program on the lawns of the House of Pacific Relations will be climaxed by an evening program at the Temple Center at 8:00 p.m. under the auspices of the San Diego Zionist Council. "The Zionist Council believes that the occasion is one of great joy to the entire community and calls for a program in which the community can participate," according to a statement by its chairman, Mrs. S.I. Goldhammer. Accordingly, the evening program will include musical and dancing selections, as well as a brief panel discussion and greetings from civic officials. The musical program will include selections sung by Cantor Julian Miller, a duet by Norman Holtzman and Esther Weitzman, violin selections by Dr. David Miller accompanied by Mrs. Belle Cohen, and modern Israeli dances and songs by the IZFA Dance group. The audience will be invited to join in communal singing led by Cantor Miller and will be encouraged to join in some Horas at the conclusion of the program. Honored guests of the evening will include Mrs. Mary Fay, member of the Board of Education and Chairman of the local chapter, American Christian Palestine Committee, who will extend greetings from the Committee. A brief panel discussion on the relationship of Israel and America will include as speakers, Mrs. Gabriel Berg, who will discuss the necessity of financial aid to Israel; Dr. A.P. Nasatir, who will point out the need for a Zionist  Public Relations program; Mrs. Meir Barach, whose subject will be Chalutziot, and Rabbi Morton J. Cohn who will discuss education as the bridge between America and Israel. Rabbi Monroe Levens will give the Invocation. Rabbi Baruch Stern the Benedeiction. Mrs. Goldhammer will chair the program.  Organizations represented by the Zionist Council are Masada, Hadassah, Pioneer Women Negba Group, Pioneer Women Shashana Group, Poale Zion and Zionist Organization of America. Guests will be invited to join in refreshments and a social hour. There is no admission charge and no solicitations. 
3) Lou Mogy, "Scene Around Town," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 8: ...I believe that one of the most important meetings in the history of the Guardians will be the next meeting to take place on Thursday, May 4th, in the Gold Room of the U.S. Grant Hotel.  Among the many notables who are expected to attend will be Congressman Clinton D. McKinnon, Dist. Atty Don Keller, Vice Mayor Vincent Godfrey, Supervisor Dan Rossi, Councilman Charles Dail, Federal Judge Jacob Weinberger, City Attorney Jean De Paul, City Manager O. W. Campbell, Al Schuss, Fire Chief George Courser, Police Chief Elmer Jansen, Sheriff Bert Strand, Rabbi Morton J. Cohn, Rabbi Monroe Levens and Rabbi Baruch Sterns.  There will also be presidents of many of our organizations in attendance. Remember the date and let us come out and pay honor to an outstanding community leader....

4) "Tifereth Israel News," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 9: Sabbath Evening Services will be held this Friday, april 14th at 8:15 p.m. Cantor Aaron A, Kaufman will officiate as Guest Cantor...He has served as cantor in Oakland and Los Angeles, and is a professional teacher of piano and voice... Rabbi Levens will deliver the sermon...With the Rabbi—Rabbi Levens addressed the Y's Men's Club in Escondido.  He will also appear before the Men's club of the Asbury Methodist Church, and deliver an invocation for the county Federation of Women's Clubs....

April 28, 1950—1) "Tifereth Israel News," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 12: ...Regular Sabbath Morning Services will be held on April 29th at 9:00 a.m. and 5:45 p.m. After the Afternoon Services, Rabbi Levens will continue his study of the Ethics of the Fathers...

2)"United Synagogues Hold Conference in L.A. May 7th," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 8: Tifereth Israel of San Diego will be well represented when conservative Jewry of Southern California convenes at the Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles on Sunday, May 7, for the Fifth Annual Confe rence of the United Synagogue of America and the National Women's League...The Tifereth Israel delegation will probably comprise 20 to 30 persons, headed by Rabbi Monroe Levens, Alex J. Newman, Its Penter, I. Jacobson, Moe Hershey, M. S. Berlin, Sid Smith and Sam Addleson, all of whom are taking an active role in the conference program and on its planning committees.  Rabbi Levens will be a panel speaker on one of the afternoon seminars dealing with :The Centers Program in the Synagogue" while Newman will serve as a discussant on the panel covering "The Synagogue in the Organized Jewish Community."....

May 12, 1950—1) Florence Barach, "Letters to the Editor: Reflections on the Reflections of Rabbi Levens," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 2: "These are the times that try men's souls," and Rabbi Levens reflections on the second anniversary of the Sate of Israel, in which he deplored the lack of religion in Israel, and stated so magnanimously that we will have to send them spiritual as well as material aid, was one of those times. Such misuse of the terms "religion," "religious," and "spiritual," is appalling and dangerous in these days when supreme effort, unity, and understanding are so sorely needed. Lt us take stock of ourselves, of our religious life here in San Diego, fellow Jews. The synagogue should be the medium through which we, in humility commune with our Maker. But what has it really become? With each larger and more costly edifice which is erected isn't it becoming more the symbol of our materialistic age—a glorified and hallowfied community center? I sometimes feel that our present day synagogues are comparable to the idols of old. At that time people worshipped the idols and brought of their best offerings to them. Now we worship not in the synagogue, but the synagogue. Each synagogue built is more elaborate than the preceding ones—money must continually be poured into them for their costly upkeep, and then we must have continual socials, card parties, banquets, fashion shows, opera stars to conduct High Holy Day Services, and well-known cantors to keep the synagogue attendance up. At specific times, tis true, we do go through our ancient prayers automatically, thus making peace with our conscience. And for all this, we need highly qualified, well paid modern rabbis to keep this intricate organ of modern American Jewish religion functioning smoothly. Am I exaggerating friends? All this I would still grant is necessary to pull our wandering sheep into the fold, if only our leaders would not act in the capacity of public relations men between God and the influential Boards of Trustees and their congregations. We need spiritual leaders with vision, boldness, courage and integrity, who will try to re-define to us, blinded children enmeshed in an arrogant materialism, the real values of religion and spirituality, so that they need not be merely words glibly spoken, but have meaning and content for us in our lives. Such leaders, friends, would be able to give you a very different picture of Israel than that presented by the few rabbis who, wrapped in their clerical coats smelling of mildew, went there with their preconceived ideas of what Galut religion is, and saw only what their limited sight enabled them to see. I, having lived there among this "militant, secular, atheistic type" who forged our State of Israel, saw and felt and experienced a living religion which can truly become a guide-post for all humanity to follow.

2) Lou Mogy, "Scene Around Town," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 5: The last Guardian meeting was something never to be forgotten. I believe it will go down as one of  the outstanding Jewish events in the history of San Diego Jewry.  Mr. George A. Scott was presented a plaque for his outstanding effort in community human relations. Sam Addleson made a magnificent presentation on behalf of the Guardians. Outstanding civic and spiritual leaders were present. Among the many distinguished men who spoke were the following: Judge Jacob A. Weinberger, Vincent Godfrey, James A. Robbins, Rabbi Baruch Stern, Rabbi Monroe Levens, Rabbi Morton J. Cohn, Victor Schulman, Reverend Dr. Thomas Law Coyle, Eli Levenson, Carl Esenoff, Murray D. Goodrich, Lou Steinman, Al Newman, Morrie Kraus and Zel Greenberg. Cantor Miller, assisted by Mrs. Florence Corwin, sang two beautiful Hebrew melodies. Mrs. Rose Neumann was introduced and the audience heard her thoughts contained in the hearts of both Mrs. Neumann and Mr. Scott. I can only say that I am particularly proud in having played a small part in this wonderful evening and presentation. It also makes a fellow feel good to know that something in principal which he fought for came to such a glorious and successful end.

3) "Tifereth Israel News," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 6: ...To Promote Jewish Education --Mr. E. Max Cohen was selected to serve as temporary chairman, and Mrs. Murray Haber, as temporary secretary of the newly organized Synagogue Association for Jewish Education. The results of the meeting held last Monday evening were an inspiration to all who attended. After an introduction by Rabbi Levens, the members of the teaching staff gave a summary of the year's work in the religious schools. The report of the school's achievements made a deep impression upon the listeners, who realized that, though laboring under many difficulties, our school has progressed remarkably well...

May 26, 1950—1) John Kluchin, "News of the Fox," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 7:  The Samuel I. Fox Lodge meeting of May 9th was an active one with most of the members entering into the discussions and business of the day....E. Max Cohen, Boy Scot Committee Chairman, had the pleasure of seeing his son, Alvin, given the Aleph award by Rabbi Levens for Boy Scout achievement.

2) "Tifereth Israel News," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 8: ... Rabbi Levens will deliver the benedictin at the State College Baccalaureate Service at the first Methodist Church.  He will address the Community Church at Chula Vista on June 4th and deliver the sermon at the Goodwill Services on June 7th...

June 9, 1950—1) "Synagogue Kashrut Commission of San Diego," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 6: In order to promote the interest of Kashrut observances the Synagogue Kashrut Commission has been formed in San Diego. This Commission is comprised of five representatives of Beth Jacob and five representatives of Tifereth Israel Congregation, as well as their respective Rabbis. At a recent meeting the Synagogue Kashrut Commission decided to issue Certificates of Endorsement to those individuals and establishments dealing with Kashrut. At present such certificates will be issued to Kosher Meat Dealers and Schochtim (ritual slaughterers) who fulfill the necessary qualifications according to the following statement issued by the Commission: Qualifications For Certificates of Endorsement of the Synagogue Kashrut Commission of S.D.—Recognizing that Kashrut involves not only business aspects, but is a vital force in the preservation of Judaism, this Synagogue Kashrut Commission of San Diego is constituted for the purpose of enhancing, promoting, and safe-guarding Kashrut in San Diego; and will give endorsements to such business establishments and individuals dealing with Kashrut, who comply with its rules and regulations. The Commission also adopted a regulation taht no Schochtim shall be engaged in the merchandising of Kosher Meat or Fowl either as a proprietor or as an employee. At the present time, and until June 30th, the Commission will accept applications for its Certificates of Endorsement. All applications should be sent to Mr. Morris Penn, Secretary of the Kashrut Commission, 2930 Howard Avenue, San Diego 4, California. The members of the Synagogue Kashrut Commission are: Paul Nestor, M.S. Berlin, Alex J. Newman, Moe J. Hershey, I. Jacobson, Joseph Gelman, Sandor Goldberger, S. Hirsch, Abe Abramson, Morris Penn, Rabbis Baruch Stern and Monroe Levens. 

2) "Home for the Aged," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 8: At the Fifth Annual May Donor Luncheon of the Women's Auxiliary the following officers were installed by Ida Nasatir: Mrs. Wm. Moss, Pres; Mrs. Morris Feldman, 1st Vice Pres; Mrs. Sarah Shelley, 2nd Vice Pres.; Mrs. Max Rabinowitz, Treas.; Mrs. Moe Hershey, Recording Sec'y; Mrs. Abe Forster; Corresponding Sec'y; Mrs. Paul Cudney, Auditor; Mrs. Zel Greenberg, Parliamentarian.The motif of the installation was a large wishing well, into which the members dropped coins, as wishes were made by the narrator, Ida Nasatir. Elected to the Board for 1950-1951 were the following members: Mesdames Milo Berenson, Edward Binder, Morris Breitbard, ARthur Glickman, Jose. Goldhammer, Ben Levenson, Paul Nestor, Geo. Neuman, Harry Rosenthal, Nathan Rubin, Abe Sackheim, Abe Sklar, Sam Sklar, Jeennie Siner, Henry Witte.  Mrs. Al Neumann is an honorary life member and Mrs. Saul Chenkin is an honorary director. The three religious leaders in our community participated in the ceremonies. Rabbi Morton J. Cohn gave the Invocation, Rabbi Monroe Levens spoke on "Reflections of the Home and Its Bearing on the Communty," and Rabbi Baruch Stern gave the Benediction...

August 18, 1950—1) "Theodore Albert to Claim Lora Dean Addleson As Bride," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 3:  Lora Dean Addleson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Sam Addleson, will be united in marriage to Theodore Albert, son of Mr. and Mrs. Phil Albert of Alhambra, at a candlight service Sunday, August 20 at 7:30 p.m. in the Tifereth Israel Synagogue. Rabbi Monroe Levens will perform the ceremony....

2) "Elena Shapov Wed," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 3: Elena Shapov, daughter of Mr. and Mrs Isaias Shapov was united in marriage to Ben Kutchuk, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ephrian Kutchuk of Los Angeles in an impressive ceremony at Tifereth Israel synagogue on Sunday, August 6. Performing the wedding ceremony were rabbis Monroe Levens and N.I. Addleson. Rabbi Addleson came from Los Angeles to help officiate...

3) Lou Mogy, "Scene Around Town," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 5:  The annual all city Jewish picnic will take place on Sunday, August 27th at El Monte County Park. Remember everyone is invited to come out . The picnic is under the auspices of the Jewish Community Center. Transportation will be supplied at the following points:  Beth Israel, 10:00 a.m.; Tifereth Israel Synagogue, 10:15 a.m.; Beth Jacob Synagogue, 10:156 a.m.  The S.D. Janitor and Supply Co. will supply one of the trucks for transportation. There will be games, races and entertainment. Soft drinks and coffee can be purchased on the grounds. There are facilities for 2,000 people. Ted Schiller is chairman of the committee on races. Morris Wax will be in charge of the softball game. Bob Goodwin is chairman of transportation. Ed Israel and Lou Pollack are co-chairmen of the games committee. The Rabbi Moise Bergman Memorial Softball Trophy will be presented to the Alpha Phi Pi Softball Team, winners of the year's softball championship. All newcomers to San Diego during the last year will be introduced and officially welcomed to San Diego. The presidents of all congregations and Rabbi Morton J. Cohn, Rabbi Monroe Levens and Rabbi Baruch Stern will be introduced.  This picnic is for one and all. It creates good fellowship. Why not all come out and enjoy yourself...Sunday, August 27th from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.  How to reach El Monte Park -- Go out No. 80 (El Cajon Blvd). Look for Lakeside sign in El Cajon, turn left, go through Bostonia, straight through City of Lakeside until you see a sign El Monte Park...

4)  Lou Mogy, "Scene Around Town," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 5: ...Mr. and Mrs. Abe Ratner wish to announce the Bar Mitzvah of their son, Sandy, on Saturday morning, Sept. 2nd at 10 a.m. in Tifereth Israel Synagogue. Rabbi Monroe Levens will officiate. Friends are cordially invited...

5) "Tifereth Israel News," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 6: ... Mincha will take place at 6:15 p.m. followed by the "Sholosh Seudos," traditional social hour of refreshments and study, when Rabbi Levens will continue the study of the "Ethics of the Fathers."...With the Rabbi—Rabbi Levens recently addressed the Chula Vista Kiwanian Club and is scheduled to speak before "The Lamplighters of La Jolla," and the Women's Group of the Normal Heights Methodist Church...

September 8, 1950— 1) "Public Announcement," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 1: The Synagogue Kashrut Commission of San Deigo wishes to announce that it has engaged and endorsed the Reverend Simon L. Schwartz of Los Angeles, as a temporary schochet (Ritual Slaughter) for slaughtering fowl in San Diego. Reverend Schwartz will be here all day Tuesday, September 5th, and regularly once a week thereafter at a local poultry market. The Kashrut Commission also wishes to announce that authorized Kosher butcher shops in San Diego will obtain fowl slaughtered by the authorized Shochet, and will make this merchandise available to the public. Any information pertaining to Kashrut in San Diego, or about obtaining properly prepared kosher meats, fowl, and other foods, may be obtained by calling the Synagogue Kashrut Commission, 2930 Howard, Talbot 1-5529.  Synagogue Kashrut Commission, Beth Jacob Synagogue, Tifereth Israel Synagogue, Rabbi Baruch Stern, Rabbi Monroe Levens.

2) "Dr. Albert Klug—Shirley Berenson," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 3: On Sunday, August 27, Shirley Ann Berenson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Milo Berenson, became the bride of Dr. Albert Baruch Klug, son of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Klug, at the Tifereth Israel Synagogue. Rabbi Monroe Levens officiated...Maid of honor was Leonora Klug, sister of the bridegroom. She wore a gown of white nylon net with a full ballerina-length skirt. Her satin shoes were deep violet and she carried a crescent shaped bouquet of deep violet gardenias and delphinium. Attendants Sherrill Rae Newman, Junior Bridesmaid; Arlene Glickman, Carolyn Kobernick and Joan Tavernetti, bridesmaids, were dressed like the maid of honor with shoes and flowers light violet in color. All carried crescent shaped bouquets...

3) "Personals," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 4: A surprise housewarming was held for Mr. and Mrs. Julius Meyer in thier new home at 3385 33rd St. by officers of the Daughters of Israel. Among the invited guests were Rabbi and Mrs. Monroe Levens. A gift for the new house was presented to the Meyers.

4) "Congregation Beth Jacob," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 18—It was with mixed emotions of solemnity and elation that Beth Jacob Congregation held the consecration ceremonies of their new Synagogue on August 20. Beginning with the conveyance of the Torah Scrolls from the old synagogue to the new one on 4473 30th Street, an assembly of 500 people gathered in the auditorium to listen to a program especially planned for this rare occasion. Chairman for the afternoon was Mr. A. Abramson, president of the congregation, the invocation being given by Rabbi Monroe Levens with Rabbi Morton J.Cohn rendering the benediction. Representative leaders in the Jewish Community, among them Mr. Murray Goodrich, president of Temple Beth Israel, and MR. Alex Newman, president of Tifereth Israel Synagogue were on hand to extend their greetings and best wishes.  Addresses were given by Rabbi Baruch Stern, spiritual head of the congregation and Rabbi Simon Dolgin, guest speaker who leads another Beth Jacob Congregation in Los Angeles. Both were inspiring and inspired by the attainment of another spiritual wellspring for the continuity of the Jewish religion and culture in this community.  Entertainment was well provided by Cantor Boris Gassin of Hollywood, formerly of Golden Gate Temple, San Francisco. Here is a cantor with a melodious and true voice who not only provides a pleasing rendition of liturgical music but has a delightful personality to add to his other talents. Mr. Morrie Kraus, building chairman, who has worked so strenuously for the attainment of this project, was presented with a gift by the Congregation as a token of appreciation. The entire community is invited to attend Slicoth services on Saturday midnight, Sept. 2, at which time services will be conducted by Rabbi Stern and Cantor Gassin. Seats for the High Holy Day services are selling rapidly and reservations can be made by phoning J-4834 or R-1706.

5) "The Synagogue Hour," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 18: Radio Station KSON has set aside the hour from 8 to 9 in the morning every Sunday for broadcasts of the various religious groups in San Diego.  The period allocated to the Synagogues is from 8:30 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. Rabbi Morton J. Cohen (sic, Cohn) will present the service on September 10; Rabbi Monroe Levens on September 17 and rabbi Baruch Stern on September 24.  The "Synagogue Hour" can be an excellent source of education and goodwill for the community.  KSON is conducting this Hour as an experiment and if it meets with public approval it will undoubtedly be continued. Listen—then write expressing your appreciation and interest.

6) "Synagogue Register," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 18: Important events in the life of the individual Jew are of significance not only to himself and his family, but also to the Community at large. It is customary among numerous religious groups to preserve the information of such events in a permanent register.  After a joint consultation, Rabbi Cohn, Rabbi Stern, and Rabbi Levens came to a decision that it would be advantageous for the San Diego Community to have such a register, in which there would be recorded permanently at no cost to anyone such vital statistics as births, marriages, Bar Mitzvahs, confirmations, conversions, deaths, etc.  This Synagogue Register will be conducted as a join enterprise, and its privileges available to everyone on a citywide basis. All vital statistics beginning with the coming New Year will be automatically included in the Synagogue Register.  Joint Religious Education Committee Meets—On Aug. 23rd, a meeting was held of the three Religious Education Committees of the Synagogues. Rabbi Morton J. Cohn opened the meeting, emphasizing the fact that there are many areas of common concern in Jewish education in San Diego, which could be best promoted by a joint effort of the three congregations, with the greatest benefits thus accruing to the entire Jewish community.  A report submitted by Mr. Leon Elkind reviewed the Synagogue Religious School Picnic held last June in Balboa Park. All agreed that the picnic was most successful and augured well for further joint celebrations in the future. Among the problems discussed were: 1) A uniform educational calendar for the year; 2) a united campaign for enrollment and publicity; 3) the need for setting up city-wide teaching standards and the possibility of offering professional assistance to those who would like to teach in the Synagogue Religious Schools; 4) Uniform standards and requirements for Bar Mitzvah, confirmation and graduation. The meetings of the Joint Religious Education Committee are of an advisory and consultative nature, though it was felt that all matters which were agreed upon unanimously should carry the obligation of being carried out. The meeting place will be rotated among the three synagogue buildings, and will be chaired by each Religious Education Committee in rotation. Various committees were appointed to conduct research and study into the several problems that were discussed.

September 22, 1950—1) "Personals," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 2: Naomi Levens, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Al Levens of Berkeley, and niece of Rabbi Monroe Levens, of this city, was married August 27. Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Novak, aunt and ncle of the bride, traveled to the wedding from Chicago, where they were houseguests of Mr. and Mrs. Maurice Novak.

2) "Deceased," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 2:  Jacob Baranov, a resident of San Diego for 35 years, died at the Mercy Hopsital on September 5. Funeral services were held at the Merkely Austin Mortuary with Rabbi Monroe Levens officiating. He was buried in the Home of Peace Cemetery.  Survivors include three daughters, Mrs. J.H. Weiss of Chicago, Mrs. Earl Forer of Los Angeles, Mrs. Milton J. Gellens of San Diego, and four grandchildren. He also leaves a brother, Nathan Baranov and sister, Mrs.Edward Saron, both of this city.

October 6, 1950—1) Linda Solof, "Linda's Lookout," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 4: ...The first Y.P.L. meeting was a huge success.  Rabbi Levens gave a keen talk on "Jewish Holidays." Fifty young people enjjoyed Palestinian and Modern dancing, preceded by a terrific floor show. Joanne Rosenfeld and her ever wonderful record pantomimes, Sandy Schissell and her fine monologues and Janet and Susan Solof in their tap dances made up the show...

2) "Tifereth Israel News," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 7: The opening late Friday Night Service will take place Oct. 6th, at 8:15 p.m., with Rabbi Levens and Cantor Cysner officiating. The sermon will be given by the Rabbi on the subject, "Lastly a Jew." The sermon will deal with some thoughts about the recent book on the life of Bernard Baruch, American statesman. An Oneg Shabbat and Social Hour will follow the service...

3) "Deceased," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 7—Mr. Abraham Woolf, 66, died September 12th in Los Angeles. Mr. Woolf has been a resident of San Diego for 20 years, having moved from Detroit, Mich.  Funeral services were held in Groman's Mortuary in Los Angeles, burial was at the Home of Peace Cemetery in this city. Burial rites were performed by Rabbi Monroe Levens assisted by Cantor Joseph Cysner. Mr. Woolf  leaves a son, Melvin.

October 20, 1950—"Adult Jewish Institute Open for Registration," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 1:  Registrations are still being accepted by the Institute of Jewish Studies, as classes opened last Wednesday, Rabbi Morton J. Cohn announced yesterday. "With close to last year's registration figure, ten classes are in session." Courses are offered in Modern Jewish History and Biblical Literature, taught by Rabbi Morton J. Cohn of Beth Israel Temple; "What We Jews Believe," given by Rabbi Baruch Stern of Beth Jacob Synagogue; Beginning and Advance Hebrew with Dov Abramis as the instructor; Cantor Julian Miller teaches a class in Jewish Music Appreciation; Comparative Religion is taught by the very popular Professor Harry Ruja of State College; Contemporary Jewish Literature, a Book Review and Discussion class is led by Edward Schwartz, prominent young attorney; the Contemporary Jewish Scene, a discussion of day by day problems and challenges, led by Albert A. Hutler, Executive Director of the United Jewish Fund, and a Cooking Course by Mrs. Rose Neumann and Mrs. Lucille Rubel.  Classes are held every Wednesday evening from7:45 to 10:20 p.m.  Refreshments are served at the end of the second period, followed by a general assembly for the entire student body.  This period is devoted to discussions, lectures, movies, community singing, and folk dancing. Sponsored by the Jewish Education commission, the Institute is a cooperative effort of the three Synagogues and the United Jewish Fund. The Commission is composed of representatives of these bodies who plan the program for the Institute of Jewish Studies, and who are working toward a Jewish Education program in the community on an entire community level. At the last meeting of the Jewish Education Commission the resignation of Rabbi Monroe Levens as a member of Commission was accepted with regrets. The commission also expressed its intention of continuing its efforts toward the establishment of a Community Talmud Torah in San Diego.  Mr. Moss Addleson was elected to the Commission as a member at large.

2) "Jewish Educational Commission," Southwestern Jewish Press, (editorial, which doesn't mention Rabbi Levens but seems aimed at him per above item), page 2:  One of the first cooperative ventures in this community since the end of the last war was started by lay and professional leadership some two years ago. This was the Adult Institute of Jewish Studies. Sponsored by the Jewish Educational Commission, it has, for the first time in San Diego, made it possible for adults to refresh their memories and learn something about their culture and heritage.  Volunteer teachers were found who held classes on subjects from "What the Jews Believe" to "Jewish Cooking." The Adult Jewish Institute serves the entire Jewish Community and is a project which merits the support of everyone. The staff of teachers is the best that can be obtained in this community. The courses offered are varied and interesting. Anything that is done to hinder the advancement of this cooperative venture between the Synagogues and the Fund will result in setting the community back two years.  This is Jewish Book Month and since we are known as "Children of the Book," we should take advantage of the opportunity to register for one of the many courses offered at the Institute. It's never too late to learn!

3) "Tifereth Israel News," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 6: "Does San Diego Jewry Need a Fourth Center?" will be the subject of the sermon by Rabbi Levens at the Sabbath Eve Service October 20th, 8:15 p.m. All are cordially invited and urged to attend this Service and to join in the discussion on the subject of the sermon at the Oneg Shabbat and social hour which will follow the service...

November 17, 1950—1) "University of Judaism Founders Day Dinner Nov. 19," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 1: The Annual Founders Day Dinner, in honor of the establishment of the University of Judaism in Los Angeles, will be held at the Biltmore Hotel, Sunday evening, November 19th. Dr. Louis Finkelstein, President of the Jewish Theological Seminary of America, which sponsors the University of Judaism will be the speaker.  Mr. Ezio Pinza, famous Metropolitan Opera singer, will be the guest artist. An original Eternal Light broadcast will also be presented. Attending the Founder's Day Dinner from San Diego, will be Rabbi and Mrs. Monroe Levens, Cantor Joseph Cysner, Mr. and Mrs. M.S. Berlin, Mr. and Mrs. Max Zemen, Mr. I Jacobson, Mr. Its Penter, Mr. and Mrs. Sid Newman, and M. and Mrs. Irving Goodman.

2) "Deceased—Joseph Goldstein, Esther Goldstein," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 6:  Joseph Goldstein, 60, died October 23. Funeral services were held at Lewis Colonial Mortuary on Oct. 27 with Rabbi Monroe Levens officiating. Burial was in the Home of Peace Cemetery. Following the death of her husband, Mrs. Esther Goldstein, 56, passed away on Nov. 3. Funeral services were held at Lewis Mortuary on Nov. 6 with Rabbi Monroe Levens officiating.  Burial was in the Home of Peace Cemetery. MR. and Mrs. Goldstein resided in San Diego for 4 years after leaving Miles City, Montana, where they had been in business for 30 years. Survivors include a daughter and two sons, Mrs. Henry Price of this city, Harold Goldstein of Wallace, Idaho, and Samuel Goldstein of New York City.

December 1, 1950—1) "Tifereth Israel Breaks Ground for New Religious School Building," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 1: The ceremonies of groundbreaking for the new Religious School Building of Tifereth Israel Synagogue will take place Sunday, December 3rd, at 2:30 p.m. at Tifereth Israel. The entire community is most cordially invited to attend the ceremonies. Invitations have been extended to San Diego community leaders in all walks of life to be present at the ceremonies. The invocation will be given by Rabbi Baruch Stern. Cantor Joseph Cysner will direct the Junior Choir in several musical presentations. Greetings will be extended by a number of dignitaries. Rabbi Morton J. Cohn will give the Benediction and Rabbi Monroe Levens will deliver the address. The Ground-Breaking Ceremonies are under the direction of Mr. Isadore Teacher, Chairman of the Building Committee; Mr. Arthur Gardner, Chairman of the Building Finance Committee; Its Penter, Irving Goodman, the officers of the congregation, including Alex J. Newman, President; M.S. Berlin, Vice Pres.; Henry Bowman, Recording Secretary; Edward Baranov, Financial Secretary; Moe J. Hershey, Treasurer. The new building, designed in the offices of Milo Berenson, building consultant, contain nine classrooms, as well as facilities for a pre-school and kindergarten, a main auditorium that can be used for assemblies, meetings, dinners, dances, and dramatic presentations, etc., kitchen, library, lounge and offices. Various bronze plaques to be affixed to the new building will honor the names of those who have made contributions in certain amounts. The names of the contributors will be inscribed in the Golden Book of Honor, as a permanent remembrance. In addition, some rooms have been subscribed for, and will bear the names of the donors. At present such rooms have been contributed by the families of Alex J. and Sidney Newman, Ralph Hosenpud, Max and Arthur Gardner, in memory of Charlotte Gardner, the Daughters of Israel and the Tifereth Israel Sisterhood, which has subscribed for one of the assembly halls. A reception will follow the Ground-Breaking Ceremonies tendered by the Daughters of Israel and the Sisterhood.

2) "Tadman-Altshuler Marriage Told," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 3: Ruth Altshuler, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Sam Altshuler of El Cajon, exchanged wedding vows with Morley Tadman, son of Mr. and Mrs. Louis Tadman of Los Angeles at a double ring ceremon on Sunday, November 26, at Tifereth Israel Synagogue. Rabbi Monroe Levens officiated at the candlelight rites...

3) "Atomic Age and Religion," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 6: Dr. Robert Millikan, internationally known physicist and Nobel Prize winner, delivered the keynote address for Religious Emphasis Week at State College, November 28.  Jewish, Catholic and Protestant ministers spoke at seminars tot he students. Among speakers for the Jewish group were: Rabbis Morton J. Cohn, Monroe Levens, Baruch Stern, Albert M. Lewis of Temple Isaiah, Culver City; and Yehudah M. Cohen, Pacific Regional director of B'nai B'rith Foundation, Dr. Ernest Wolf, S.D. Hillel director, and Maxwell Kaufman of the Jewish Press.  Jewish Seminars presented views of "Marriage and Intermarriage," "Business and Labor in Modern Jewish Ethics" and "The Place of Religion in Jewish History and Culture."

4) "Tifereth Israel," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 7: Sabbath Eve Services, Dec. 1st—Regular Friday Evening Services will be held December 1st at 8:15 p.m. Rabbi Levens will speak on "Religion's Role in Judaism," a pre-Chanukah sermon. Social hour and Oneg Shabbat will follow the service...

5) "Walker's To Have Chanukah Window," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 9: Because of the tremendous response to the Passover window which was exhibited by the Tifereth Israel Synagogue last year, Mr. George Scott of Walker's has requested the congregation to repeat another religious holiday. This year Chanukah, the "Jewish Festival of Lights," celebrated for eight days, to begin the 25tgh day of Kislev (December 4th through 11th) has been chosen. On the Broadway side of Walker's, the window will depict traditional Chanukah scenes. Part of the window will show a Torah, on a draped dais, open at the portion which is read at the Synagogue during this holiday, "The Story of the Maccabees." (sic) Since it is traditionally a family holiday, there will be lighted Menorahs, showing the father, mother and the children lighting the Chanukah Candles. The joy and gift giving will be symbolized the the tiny child opening her surprise Chanukah gifts. Chanukah is celebrated by Jewish people all around the world, and to stress this point, dolls dressed in the costumes of many countries will be on display. These interesting dolls have very kindly been loaned to us by Edith Thayer Deuel and Betty Deuel Monnett.  Appropriate Chanukah music will be played throughout Walker's from 12 to 1:30 daily, during the week of our Chanukah Exhibit, December 4th through December 9th. The records for the music and the props were loaned by the Tifereth Israel Sancta Shop and Mrs. Wm. Krone. Signs and show card work by courtesy of I. Jacobson Sign Co.  The Committee, consisting of Mrs. Earl Brodie, Mrs. Chas Fleischner, Mrs. Arthur Goodman, Rabbi and Mrs. Monroe Levens, and Mr. Woodrow Ratner, sincerely hope that many of the people of San Diego will view this exhibit, and that all will gain from it a wider knowledge of Jewish Customs and Ceremonies. 

December 15, 1950— 1) "Tifereth Israel News," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 5: Regular Friday Evening Services will be held at Tifereth Israel Friday, December 15th, at 8:15 p.m.. Rabbi Levens will speak on "Agenda for American Jewry," a discussion of the recent book by Professor Eli Ginzberg of Columbia University.  Professor Ginzberg offers his scientific analysis of present day American Jewish life, and a pattern for its future...

2) "S.D. Birdie Stodel, Chapt. 92," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 7: ... Our regular afternoon meeting of December 11 had as guest speaker Rabbi Monroe Levens, whose topic was "Chanukah, A Rededication."...

-1951-
January 5, 1951—
1) "Jubilee Sabbath To Be Conducted," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 1: Tifereth Israel Synagogue will participate in a special Jubilee Sabbath to be conducted on January 5th-6th in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Rabbinical Assembly of America, it was announced by Rabbi Monroe Levens, spiritual leader of the synagogue.  The forthcoming Jubilee Sabbath will be celebrated by Conservative congregations throughout the United States and Canada, according to Rabbi Max D. Davidson, President of the Rabbinical Assembly. Rabbi Israel M. Goldman of Baltimore, Md., chairman of the National Jubilee Committee, has issued a proclamation calling upon members of the congregations served by the Rabbinical Assembly "to assemble in a service of Rededication and Thanksgiving that Almighty God has fulfilled in us the prophetic promise: 'Though thy beginning shall be small, thou shalt finally be great.'"  Messages of congratulations on the organization's golden anniversary and the forthcoming Jubilee observance have been sent to the Rabbinical Assembly by President Harry S. Truman and Doctor Louis Finkelstein, President of the Jewish Theological Seminary of America. The Rabbinical Assembly of America was founded fifty years ago in Philadelphia by eleven graduates of the Jewish Theological Seminary of America. At the present time, more than 450 religious leaders throughout this country and Canada are members. The group publishes the widely-influential quarterly magazine, Conservative Judaism, editor (sic, edited) by Doctor Leon S. Lang. Members of the Rabbinical Assembly work closely with the Seminary in behalf of the Conservative Jewish movement. These include the Eternal Light radio program, the Jewish Museum on Fifth Avenue, New York City; the United Synagogue of America; the Institute for Religious and Social Studies; the world renowned Rabbinical School and Teachers Institute and the Seminary's West Coast branch, the University of Judaism in Los Angeles, California.

2)
Rabbi Morton J. Cohn, "Living Judaism," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 2:  Through the generous cooperation of the Jewish Press the three Rabbis of the community will prepare this column in each issue. Its purpose is to emphasize the religious, spiritual and moral values of Judaism as they apply to the currents of modern life and thought. Rabbis Levens and Stern will rotate with me in this bi-weekly chat, which we hope you will find instructive and entertaining.  Of course, we invite your comments. We have chosen to call the column "Living Judaism," for that most accurately describes it nature....(rest of Rabbi Cohn's column)

3) "Tifereth Israel News," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 6: ...The Junior Congregation will meet Saturday, January 113th, at 10:15 in the morning. The Junior Congregation meets regularly every two weeks during the school year.  Rabbi Levens will continue the story of the "Golem." Refreshments will be served. Your child will enjoy the Junior Congregation.

4) "Estelle Brodman Marriage Told," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 7:  On January 1, at 3:30 p.m., Estelle Brodman became the wife of Louis Samuels at the Tifereth Israel Synagogue. Members of the family and close friends attended the ceremony performed by Rabbi Monroe Levens.  Jackie Brodman served her sister as maid of honor. Estelle is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Adolph Brodman and Louis is the son of Mrs. Lee Samuels...

5) "Personals," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 7:Wishing Mr. and Mrs. Jimmy Geller a "Happy 20th Anniversary" were those present at Tifereth Israel services on Dec. 22. A reception in their honor followed the service. Also honoring the Gellers, the Tifereth Israel Sisterhood gave a surprise luncheon on December 28. A beautiful gift was presented to the couple through Rabbi Monroe Levens and Cantor Cysner sang "God Made Thee Mine." The luncheon ended in true anniversary style with  he playing of the "Anniversary Waltz" by Aida V. Most.

6) "Ruth Barth Wed," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 7: Ruth Barth, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Barth of this city, and Irving Yates, son of Dora Yates of Liverpool, England, started the New Year together when they became united in marriage Saturday evening, December 30.  Ruth recited the wedding vows in a Navy blue dressy suit with red accessories. The ceremony was performed by Rabbi Monroe Levens in the study of the Tifereth Israel Synagogue...

7) "Harry Ratner Bar Mitzvah," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 7: Harry Arnold Ratner, son of Mr. and Mrs. Nathaniel Ratner, was called to the torah as a Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, Dec. 16, at the Tifereth Israel Synagogue at 10 a.m. Rabbis Monroe Levens and Morton J. Cohn co-officiated. A reception followed the service.

January 19, 1951—1) "Newman-Fleischman Repeat Vows," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 3: Arleen Joyce Fleischman, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Rueben Flesichman and Alfred Newman, son of Mr. and Mrs. Michael Newman of Venice were united in marriage at the home of Arleen's parents on January 14. Rabbi Monroe Levens officiated....

2) "Tifereth Israel Synagogue News," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 6: Sabbath Services, Friday, January 19th, 8:15 p.m. Rabbi Levens will speak on "Israel Today," a picture of the day-to-day life in Israel based on the book, "Israel Without Tears" by Ruth Gruber.  Oneg Shabbat Social Hour will follow the Service. The "Question and Answer" period is now a regular feature of the Oneg Shabbat...

3) "Deceased," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 6: Abraham Samuels, 48, died at his home, 4660 Alice St., on Jan. 16. Mr. Samuels was a resident of San Diego for eight years. He is survived by his wife, Clara and three children, Rose, Lydia and Jimmie, all of San Diego. Funeral services were conducted by Rabbi Monroe Levens at the Lewis Colonial Mortuary on Jan. 18. Burial was at the Home of Peace Cemetery.

February 2, 1951—1) "Jewish Institute Expands Staff," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 1: Rabbi Monroe Levens, Cantor Joseph Cysner and Mr. Leon Elkind will be added to the faculty of the Institute of Jewish Studies which will open its second semester on Wednesday, Feb. 7, 8:00 p.m., according to Rabbi Morton J. Cohn, Dean of the School.  Held at the Temple Center, 34d and Laurel Streets, the Institute sponsored by the Jewish Education Commission, has provided a Jewish cultural outlet for San Diego Jewry for the past two years.  In the semester ending its 3rd year, the courses to be offered will be as follows: Comparative Religions, Professor (Harry) Ruja; Beginner's Hebrew, Mr. Elkind; Intermediate Hebrew, Mr. (Dov) Abram(i)s, Basic Judaism, Rabbi Levens; Men Who Mattered in Jewish Life, Rabbi (Baruch) Stern; Meet the Prophets, Rabbi (Morton) Cohn; Jewish Music, Cantor Cysner; Contemporary Jewish Themes, Mr. (Albert) Hutler.  Classes will be divided into two periods, with the  first period starting at 8:00 o'clock. There will be a twenty minute period for refreshments and announcements, and the second period will start at 9:10 and be concluded by 10:00 o'clock. Registration for the second semester will open on Wednesday, Feb. 7, at 7:30 p.m., at the Temple Center.

2) "Labor Zionists To Hold Seminar," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 1: In these trying days, when all Jewish groups are putting forth their utmost efforts in raising the desperately needed funds for Israel, the Labor Zionists of San Diego are taking time out for a seminar. Many issues in Zionism have become confused, many problems arising out of the establishment of the Jewish state perplex us and we feel the time has come for study and clarification. The seminar, first of its kind here, will have as its central theme, "Reorientation of Zionism."  The schedule of the sessions to be held at Tifereth Israel Synagogue will be: Saturday evening, February 10 at 8:30, "Economic Patters in Israel," with discussion led by Hugo Brumer of L.A. Sunday afternoon at 2:00 p.m.; "The History of Labor Zionism in America," with discussion led by Cantor Leib Glantz of L.A., Sunday evening, February, 11, 8:30 p.m. a panel discussion "Israel, A Democracy in Action," with Mrs. Gabriel Berg, Al Hutler, I. Domnitz, Prof. Felix P. Lee, Dov Abramis participating and Rabbi Levens as moderator.  Fred Yaruss, president of Ben Gurion group will be general chairman. It is sincerely hoped that everyone who feels an interest in the live problems facing Israel and Zionism will make attendance a must. All sessions will be absolutely free, there will be no solicitations of any kind. 

3) "Congregation Tifereth Israel, Daughters of Israel to Hold Joint Installation," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 6: On Tuesday, Feb. 14th, at 8:00 p.m., a joint Installation Ceremony of the newly elected officers of Congregation Tifereth Israel and of the Daughters of Israel will take place at Tifereth Israel Synagogue.  Rabbi Monroe Levens, Installing Officer, will conduct the ceremonies to usher the following newly elected officers into office.  Congregation Tifereth Israel—President, Alex J. Newman; 1st Vice President, Its Penter; 2nd Vice President, frank Pomeranz; Recording Secretary, Samuel F. Brenes; Financial Secretary, Edward Baranov Treasurer, Max Zemen. Daughters of Israel: President, Mrs. Rose Neumann; Honorary Past President, Mrs. Jennie Siner; 1st Vice President, Mrs. Mary Schwartz, 2nd Vice Preisdent, Mrs. Sophia Blanc, 3rd Vice President, Mrs. Celia Berkouf, Recording Secretary, Ida Pearl; Corresponding Secretary, Sarah Geller, Social Secretary, Pearl Shulack, Financial Secretary, Elise Meyer; Treasurer, Jennie Siner; Publicity, Laura Simon. The Installation Ceremonies will be followed by a social evening with cards and refreshments. The entire community is cordially invited to enjoy this Installation Social.

February 16, 1951—1) "Institute Opens New Semester," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 1: The Institute of Jewish Studies opened a new semester last Wednesday night with an array of courses that would bring pride to a much larger city than San Diego...Faculty members include, Dr. Ruja of State College, Rabbis Stern, Levens and Cohn, Albert A. Hutler, Dov Abramis, Cantors Cysner and Miller, Isaac Domnitz, Meir Bleiberg and Leon Elkind...

2) "Bar Mitzvah Boys," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 3: Tifereth Israel Synagogue was the scene of the Bar Mitzvah of Frederick Jaffe Solomon on February 10. Frederick, who is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Ben Solomon, was called to the Torah by Rabbi Monroe Levens.... Friends are invited to attend the double Bar Mitzvah of Victor and Henry Bianchini, sons of Mr. and Mrs. H. Bianchini, on February 24 in Tifereth Israel Synagogue. Rabbi Monroe Levens will officiate. The boys are the grandsons of Mr and Mrs. H. Bianchini and Mrs. Marie Richards, and the great grandsons of Mrs B. Ezra, all of this city.

3) Lou Robbins, "News of the Fox," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 7: ...February 9, Boy Scout Troop 99, conducted services  at Tifereth Israel. In charge of the services was Rabbi Monroe Levens. John Kluchin, president of the Samuel I. Fox Lodge, presented the boys with a bugle, also Mr. Sam Brenes, Boy Scout chairman of the Lasker Lodge, presented the troop with a check for $25.00 to put towards their buying fund....

March 2, 1951—"Tifereth Israel Synagogue," Southwestern Jewish Press,  page 7: Sabbath Evening Service, March 2nd, 8:15 p.m., Center -- Celebrating Jewish Music Sabbath, a special musical service will be held at Tifereth Israel, Friday, March 2, 8:15 p.m. Under the direction of Cantor Joseph Cysner, both the Sr. and Jr. Choirs will present an elaborate program of liturgical and folk music. Rabbi Levens will comment on the program. An Oneg Shabbat will follow at which Cantor and Mrs. Joseph Cysner will be hosts together with Mr. and Mrs. Joe Spatz and Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Mintz, assisted by an able committee. The Oneg Shabbat will honor the 80th birthday of Mrs. Chaja Cysner and the birth of Marsha K. Mintz....

March 16, 1951—1) "Jewish Community Mourns Passing of Leo H. Brett," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 1: The Jewish community of San Diego was shocked at the sudden death of Leo Howard Brett, who passed away on March 5. Leo Brett's activities as members of the Zionist Organization and the B'nai B'rith had made him a leader whose passing will be mourned by the entire community. He was also President of the Young Democrats of San Diego County. Mr. Brett was born in Chicago June 5, 1911, and moved here six years ago. One of the owners of Bohemian Baking Co., he built that business into one of the largest of its kind in San Diego. Funeral services were held in the Lewis Colonial Mortuary.  Rabbi Monroe Levens, spiritual leader of Congregation Tifereth Israel, officiated. Burial was in the Home of Peace Cemetery. Survivors are his wife, Mrs. Luci.lle Brett, a daughter, Miss Sally Lee Brett; his mother, Mrs. Minnie Brett; two sisters, Mrs. Lillian Novak and Mrs. Dorothy Goldberg, and a nephew, Jacob Goldberg, all of San Diego.

2) "Tifereth Israel Men's Club Scores Success at Dinner Installation," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 7: The Tifereth Israel Men's Club Dinner Installation, which took place Sunday, March 11th, will be long remembered. A delicious roast beef dinner, cooked and served by members of the Men's Club, brought many words of praise from the guests. Mr. Moe Hershey, chairman of the Installation ceremony, called on Rabbi Levens, Installing Officer, who presented the newly elected Board members for Installation. They were: Isadore Jacobson, Joseph J. Kader, Vernon D. Kahn, Sidney Newman, Joe Spatz, Herman Tulchinsky, Al Young and Harry Zall. The following men were then installed in office: Simon A. Rich, Treasurer; Ben Levenson, Financiall Secretary; Harold D. Steckel, Recording Secretary; Dave Solof, Vice President; Moss Addleson, Vice President and Robert S. Cheron, President. Mr. Zel Greenberg, in turning the gavel over to Robert Cheron, summarized the successful activities of the Men's Club during the past year. He pointed out that the membership of the Men's Club had grown by nearly 69 percent. The organization also presented new Torah Covers to the Synagogue, gave financial aid to the Young People's League, provided ushers for Sabbath and Holy Day Services, and presented 22 volumes to boys and girls who were Bar or Bat Mitzvah. Climaxing the achievement of the Men's Club during the past year was a presentation of a check for $2,000 to the New Building Fund, first payment toward the dedication of a room in honor of the Men's Club in the new building. Mrs. Joseph Kader, Cantor Joseph Cysner, Mr. Moe Hershey and Mr. Sam Sklar presented a program of entertainment to round out a perfect evening.

3) "Tifereth Israel News," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 7: Sabbath Eve Services, March 16th, 8:15 p.m. A special service at which the Purim theme will be emphasized.  Rabbi Levens will deliver the address.  Hosts at the Oneg Shabbat following the services will be Mr. and MRs. Adolph Brenes, in honor of their 49th wedding anniversary, assisted by Mmes. Sam Brenes, Sy Fein, Wilfred Goodman, and Ruben Aved. Pulpit flowers will be contributed by Mr. and Mrs. Adolph Brenes....

4) "Purim Carnival at Tifereth Israel," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 7: The entire community is cordially invited to the big Purim Carnival sponsored by Tifereth Israel Synagogue and its Religious School, with the assistance of the Daughters of Israel, Sisterhood and Men's Club.  The date is Saturday, March 17th; the time, 7 p.m., promptly. An outstanding program has been arranged including presentations by both the children of the Religious Schools and the adult members of the Synagogue. The pupils of the school will first present a program in song under the directorship of Cantor Joseph Cysner.  Second on the program will be the presentation of a hilarious skit, "The Lone Stranger," a modern radio version of the story of Purim, in which Max Zemen, Bob Cheron, Deane Greenberg, Moe Hershey, Bob Wohl, Beronda Tulchinsky, Joe Kader, Sarah and James Geller, and Cantor Cysner will participate.  Third on the program will be "Stoup the Homentasch," a giveaway show at which a radio, washing machine, television, appliances, etc., will be given away.  "Stop the Homentasch," which offers everyone a chance to win, will star Ida Wax, assisted by Sarah Geller and Rabbi Levens.


April 13, 1951—1) "Carl Umansky-Lois Wieder to Wed," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 3: Beneath an arched canopy of white gladioli, stock, sweet peas and orange blossoms, Lois Ann Wieder will exchange wedding vows with Carl Umansky at a candlelight ceremony at Tifereth Israel Synagogue, April 15 at 2 p.m. Rabbi Monroe Levens will officiate.  Lois is the lovely daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Sidney Weider. Carl is the son of Mr. and Mrs.Rubin (sic, Reuben) Umansky...

2) "Tifereth Israel News," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 16: Sabbath Eve Service, April 13th, 8:15 p.m. Rabbi Levens will deliver the sermon. An Oneg Shabbat will follow the Service, with a Song Fest, and "Question Box" period...Community Passover Seder, April 20th—Under the joint sponsorship of the Daughters of Israel and the Sisterhood, a community Passover seder will be held at Tifereth Israel on the First Seder Night: Friday, April 20th 6:30 p.m. Preceded by a brief Sabbath and Festival Service, the Seder Ceremony will take place, led by Rabbi Levens and Cantor Cysner, with the participation of the Seder guests.  The traditional dinner will include all the well known Passover foods, with wine for the "Four Cups."...

April 27, 1951—1) Sumner Alpert, "Letter to the Editor," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 2:  The recent {April 13} article in the Southwestern Jewish Press by Rabbi Monroe Levens entitled "Living Judaism" was so stimulating that I felt impelled to contribute my thoughts to the subject. I would like to stress that my views are by no means in contradiction to those of Rabbi Levens, but rather of a qualifying nature. In his article, Rabbi Levens criticizes the secular Jew whose Judaism is manifested in activities outside of the Synagogue. Such activities, Zionism, anti-Defamation, philanthropy, etc., are rated by the secular Jew above synagogue activity and the denial, actual or implied, of the primacy of the synagogue programs deprives that institution of needed support. That such secular Jews exist in large numbers is obvious.  But that the criticism leveled at them in the Rabbi's article is merited deserves some attention. The secular Jew, it should be noted, does not deny his Jewishness; rather he affirms it by participation in an activity which is rooted in the religious and cultural teachings of our people. By such affirmation and participation he does more to sustain and enrich Jewish life than many synagogue members. Apart from the traditional ritual and prayer of our people the most important facet of Judaism is the moral teachings which call for righteous living. Such righteous living can be no better achieved than through active participation in the great humanitarian projects which are attacked as secular Judaism. The secular Jew finds himself divorced from the Synagogue while he participates in his own phase of Jewish life. Too often this occurs not because he chooses to separate himself but rather because the Synagogue has failed to assert its leadership in all phases of Jewish life and to promote actively all Jewish activities.  Let us recognize that men seek activity on various levels. When the Synagogue has limited its sphere of activity to synagogue functions it automatically alienates large numbers of individuals whose nature calls for activity on a different level. We must also acknowledge that secular Judaism has played a very important role in bringing back to the fold and often to the Synagogue those who have strayed from it. One of the most powerful forces for awakening Jewish life has been the Zionist youth movement. The orthodox groups have attempted to capitalize on this fact and the Hashomer Hadati and Mizrachi youths have served both to strengthen the Synagogue as well as to participate int he Zionist movement.  Where secular Jewish activities reach no higher that bowling leagues, card parties and other social functions, they serve no purpose. But let us recognize that such activities under the aegis of the Synagogue also serves no purpose. While such activities do present opportunities for expanded and vital living, too often they are never utilized for more than periodic support for the Synagogue institution only.  The Synagogue must be more than an institution; rather, it must become a community in which and through which all phases of Jewish life are actively promoted. If the religious and lay leadership of the Synagogue recognize and implement such a program there will be no need for questioning the primacy of the Synagogue, and Judaism will be strengthened immeasurably.

2) "Tifereth Israel News," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 4: Passover Services—Morning Service for the Seventh day Passover will take place Friday, April 27th, at 9:00 a.m. A regular late Friday Service will be held Friday evening, April 27th, at 8:15 p.m. Rabbi Levens will deliver the sermon. A special Passover Oneg Shabbat will follow the services...

May 11, 1951—1) "Home for the Aged Women's Auxiliary," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 4: The following program has been arranged by Mrs. Shelley for the May day Luncheon, to be held May 29 (Tuesday) at 12:30 at the El Cortez Hotel, Don Room.  Invocation: Rabbi Monroe C. Levens.  "Importance of a Hebrew Home for Old People in a Community"—Rabbi Baruch Stern.  Installation of Officers: Mr. Edward Breitbard. Musical Program: Cantor Julian Miller, Mrs. Edward Zuckerman; accompanied by Mrs. Sam Freidman.  Benediction: Rabbi Morton J. Cohn....  

2) "Tifereth Israel News," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 7: Israel Independence Day will be observed at the Friday Evening Service May 11th, at 8:15 p.m. Rabbi Levens' sermon will deal with this theme.  Several members of Class 9 will conduct the service....

May 25, 1951—1) "Tifereth Israel Sisterhood to Honor Rabbi and Mrs. Monroe Levens," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 6: Tifereth Israel Sisterhood has planned a thrilling and stimulating day for its closing luncheon meeting of the season to be held Tuesday, June 12th, at Twelve noon in the synagogue.  Honoring Rabbi and Mrs. Monroe Levens, and the happy occasion of their twentieth wedding anniversary, a most unusual surprise program will be presented. The skit, written by Jeanne Camiel and Frieda Mallen will hold your interest every minute, and Ruth Ratner, program chairman, will keep you up to date as she narrates the events. Cantor Cysner has done a bang up job of arranging the musical accompaniment. All this and a most delicious luncheon too, prepared and served by the members of Circle Three with Mrs. Murray Haber and Mrs. Max Kaufman as co-chairmen. Reservations really are a must—phone yours in early—as this is something you just can't afford to miss. Call Talbot 4259—Talbot 4048—or Randolph 1852 for reservations.

2) Linda Solof, "Linda's Lookout," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 7: ...The B.B.G. Installation was as touching and lovely as always. Elaine Burdman did an excellent job as chairman of the affair. The girls being installed and those being initiated went to "Tops" for dinner before the installation and returned for dancing with their dates afterwards.  Rabbi Levens installed the girls at Tifereth Israwel. Roann Tepper (Past President) presented the gavel to Edie Press (incoming president)....

June 8, 1951— "Israel Bonds Chairman Appoints Strong Committee," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 1: Louis Steinman, Chairman of the San Diego Committee, Bonds of the Israel Government, today announced the appointment of many of San Diego's leading community workers to the executive committee.  Several meetings of the executive committee have already been held to plan activities and procedures necessary to fulfill San Diego's share of the $500,000,000 Israel Bond Drive.  Those who have been appointed to date are: Abe Abramson, Mrs. Gabriel Berg, M.S. Berlin, Ed Bland, David A. Block, Ed Breitbard, Lawrence Cantor, Sol Chenkin, Rabbi Morton Cohn, Al DeSure, I.L. Domnitz, Morris Douglas, Carl M. Esenoff, Harry Farb, Arthur Gardner, Mickey Goldfarb, Mr. Muriel Goldhammer, M.D. Goodrich, Leon Heiman, Dr. F. Hollander, Dave Horowitz, Rodin Horrow, Al Hutler, Joseph J. Kaplan, Maxwell Kaufman, Allen Lame, Arthur C. Lavine, Rabbi Monroe Levens, Dick Levi, Julius Levin, Louis Moorsteen, Mrs. Rose Neuman, Sol Price, Mrs. Sol Price, Nate Ratner Mrs. Sally Ratner, Dr. Oscar G. Ravin, V.J. Schulman, Mrs. Pearl Slayen, Abe Snyder, Dr. George Solomon, Rabbi Baruch Stern, Isadore Teacher, Rubin Umansky, Henry Weinberger, Frank Winicki, Hyman S. Wolf and Fred Yaruss.

2) "Labor Zionist Organization," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 4: Chaim Weitzmann Branch... A pamphlet has recently been compiled by C. Bazaelel Sherman for the Department of Education of Paole Zion entitled "Israel and the American Jewish Community." Of timely interest to all, its contents will be reviewed by Rabbi Monroe Levens and should prove of vital interest to all attending...

June 22, 1951— "Schissell-Katz Marriage, Southwestern Jewish Press, page 3:  Tifereth Israel Synagogue was the setting for the marriage of Marilyn Schissell, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Louis Schissell, and Milton Katz, son of Mr. and Mrs. George Katz, of Brooklyn, New York, Saturday, June 16.  Rabbis Monroe Levens and Morton J. Cohn officiated...

August 17, 1951—1) "Umanskys To Be Honored by Labor Zionist Group Here," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 2: It is a pleasure to announce that the special dinner postponed from May 6 will now take place on September 9 at Temple Center, 3rd and Laurel Sts., at 5:30 p.m. This gala affair is being sponsored in honor of the 40th wedding anniversary of Chaver and Chavera Rubin Umansky and in appreciation for their efforts in behalf of the Labor Zionist Organization and Histadrut Council. We feel certain that all members as well as friends of the Umansky family will want to take part in t his happy occasion. A delicious home cooked turkey dinner will be served after which an excellent program of music and entertainment with Rabbi Monroe Levens acting as master of ceremonies...

2) "Deceased," Southwestern Jewish Press, Page 3: Mrs. Ethel M. Penter, 80, a resident here 30 years, died Aug. 4th in a local hospital. She was a native of Russia and had been a member of Congregation Tifereth Israel here many years. She resided at 1144 Twenty-fourth St.  Rabbi Monroe Levens officiated at services, Aug. 6tgh, at 9:30 in the morning in Lwis Colonial Mortuary. Burial was in Home of Peace Cemetery. Mrs. Penter is survived by a son, Julius Reisman of San Diego; two grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

August 31, 1951—1) "City's Religious Schools Open on September 23rd," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 1: In a concerted, cooperative effort to enroll every Jewish child in a Religious School, the three congregations have designated Sunday, Sept. 23rd as Registration Day. Speaking for Congregations Beth Jacob, Tifereth Israel and Beth Israel, Rabbis Baruch Stern, Monroe Levens and Morton J. Cohn announce that their Religious Schools will open for registration of new and old pupils on Sunday, September 23rd at 10 a.m. The Jewish Education Commission, made up of representatives of the three synagogues, has made such progress in community-wide organization, and it calls upon every Jewish parent to enroll his children of school age, that they may receive the benefits of a sound Jewish education.  Attendance at any of the Religious Schools is open to all children of the community. Congregation Beth Israel is located at Third and Laurel; Tifereth Israel Synagogue is situated at Thirtieth and Howard; Congregation Beth Jacob's address is 4473 Thirtieth. Register your children at the School of your choice on September 23rd!

2) "The Cradle," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 3: Ronald Douglas was born to Jerry and Lorraine Apelman Aug. 10, at Mercy Hospital. Their new son weighed 7 lbs and 15 ozs. Mr. and Mrs. Irving Baranov are the maternal grandparents and M. and Mrs. Harry Apelman are the paternal grandparents. The Bris was held Sunday, Aug. 18th at the home of the parents. Rabbi Monroe Levens officiated. There were 50 guests in attendance.

3) "Bar Mitzvah," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 3: Gary Frederick Naiman, son of Mr. and Mrs. Marshall Naiman, was called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, August 18, at Tifereth Israel Synagogue at 10 a.m.  Rabbi Monroe Levens officiated. A reception was held Sunday, August 19 in the home of the parents.

4) "Deceased," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 4: Selma Wosk, 48, of 4428 Valle Vista, died Friday evening, Aug. 24. Services were conducted Tuesday, August 28th, by Rabbi Monroe Levens at Johnson-Saum Mortuary. Surviving her are her husband, Harry S. Wosk, and three daughters, Myrna B., Shelia R., and Donna Lynn.

5) "Labor Zionist Organization," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 4: Chaim Weitzmann Branch—A reminder to our membership and friends who have not yet made their reservations, please do so no later than September 4. The reservation is meant of course for the dinner and gala celebration to be held on September 9 at Temple Center at 5:30 p.m. The affair is being sponsored to honor our president and Mrs. Umansky, who recently celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary. It will be an occasion of pleasure and relaxation for all members and friends of the Labor Zionist Organization and a means of expressing our appreciation for a sincere devotion to the cause of Israel. A non-profit home cooked turkey dinner will be served after which a program pertinent to the occasion will be given. Rabbi Monroe Levens will act as master of ceremonies and general chairman is Chavera Bertha Veitzer with whom reservations can be made by phoning T-7886....

6) "Tifereth Israel Sisterhood," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 5: Tifereth Israel Sisterhood has great plans for the fall season, which will open with a bang at its luncheon meeting, Tuesday, September 11th at Twelve noon at Tifereth Israel Synagogue. Mrs. Eddie Addleson and Mrs. Eddy Sarfan, co-chairmen, ably assisted by members of Circle 9, have devised a novel theme and prepared
a delicious luncheon. All of the charming hostesses will be wearing rummage costumes, and you can bet that will be quite a sight—but you can also bet there will be no rummaging around for your luncheon. We guarantee that that will be all brand new, and served in a most pleasing manner. There will be food for the mind, as well, when, following the luncheon, Rabbi Monroe Levens will review Pearl S. Buck's much talked about book, "God's Men."  Luncheon will be $1.00—and each guest is asked to bring a bundle of Rummage...

7) "Tifereth Israel to Begin New Season," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 5: With the beginning of the new season of activity, Tifereth Israel Synagogue will begin its 46th year of service to the Jewish community and its 4th year in its present building. A number of new projects will be added to the Synagogue program during the forthcoming year. Present plans call for the operation of a pre-school, for children under school age, every morning, Monday through Friday, with a program of recreation and Jewish instruction. A highly qualified and competent teacher is available  Parents who are interested in registering their children for Pre-school may contact Rabbi Levens regarding details.  Registration will be accepted now, subject to the feasibility of opening the school. The first steps in the organizing of a young married couples group has already been undertaken. A meeting has been scheduled for Saturday, September 8, at Tifereth Israel Synagogue. All interested are cordially invited. The Religious School of Tifereth Israel meets on Sunday mornings, with opening day on Sunday, September 23rd. New pupils may register then. Preparations are now being made for the forthcoming High Holy Days Services, which begins Sunday, September 30th.  Rabbi Levens and Cantor Cysner with the Tifereth Israel choir will conduct the services. Reservations are now being accpeted...

September 28, 1951—1) "Young Married Couples Organized at Tifereth Israel," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 5/6: A group of young married couples was recently formed at Tifereth Israel.  Officers elected were: President, Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Grossman; Vice President, Mr. and Mrs. Louis Anfanger; Treasurer, Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Janoff; Rec. Secretary, Mr. and Mrs. Don Goodwin, Corresp. Secretary, Mr. and Mrs. David Anfanger. The business meeting was followed by a talk by Rabbi Monroe Levens on the purposes and objectives of this new group..

2) "Dinner Honoring the Rubin Umanskys Outstanding Event," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 27: The dinner sponsored by the Labor Zionist Organization in honor of the 40th wedding anniversary of Mr. and Mrs. Rubin Umansky was one of the most successful as well as unique affairs witnessed for some time.  The home cooked dinner was delicious and efficiently served. The inimitable Rabbi Mornoe Levens acted as master of ceremonies and personally arranged the program assisted by Cantor J. Cysner Words are inadequate to describe the delightful and humorous presentation of their skit leading up to this celebration. The still pictures of the Umansky family further enlivened the program.Mrs. Eldith Gates, a newcomer to San Diego and a pianist of repute contributed several piano solos....The Labor Zionist Organization would like to publicly thank Rabbi Levens and Cantor Cysner for their efforts in making this affair so highly successful.

October 12, 1951—1) "Community Mourns The passing of Bess Breitbard," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 3: Bessie, beloved wife of Morris Breitbard, passed away on September 28th. Surviving are her sons Edward, William, Robert and Elford; daughters Mrs. A.J. Bard and Mrs. Jos. Weitzen; sisters Mrs. Harris Lipinsky and Mrs. Jack Zlotoff, ansd 12 grandchildren. Services were held at the Tifereth Israel Synagogue, with Rabbi Monroe Levens officiating. Entombment in Greenwood Cemetery. Mrs. Breitbard, a resident of San Diego for 33 years, was well known and loved in the community for her tireless philanthropic work.  Her passing will leave a gap in the many organizations with which she was affiliated but her memory will serve as an inspiration for service to humanity.

2) "Tifereth Israel Young Married Group," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 4: The last meeting of the Young Married Group found a large number of young married couples eagerly and enthusiastically participating in the organization's deliberations. Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Grossman, President, presented the officers and board members before the body.  The first draft of the Constitution was presented and committee appointments announced. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Sunday, October 21, at 8:00 p.m. As a result of the warm reception given to the talk by Rabbi Levens on the High Holy Days, it was requested that the Rabbi include regularly a short period of Jewish information at the meetings. At the next meeting the program committee will present its first offering....

3) "Birdie Stodel, Chapter No. 92," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 6: Members of the Birdie Stodel Chapter of B'nai B'rith are cooperating with members of the Bay City Chapter, Fox Lodge, and Lasker Lodge in planning the annual B'na B'rith Friday night services at all three synagogues.  Rabbi Cohn, Rabbi Stern and Rabbi Levens are meeting with the various representatives of B'nai B'rith to make these services outstanding and well-attended. Remember the date: Friday evening, October 12th, at all three synagogues....

4) "Committee Formed to Honor Dr. Sachar," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 7: Dr. A.P. Nasatir, chairman of the Brandeis University Committee, today announced that a dinner would be held on Tuesday, October 30 at the El Cortez Hotel for which Dr. A.L. Sachar, President of the University, would be present as the guest of honor. Arrangements for the dinner are being handled by Morris Kraus. Serving with Dr. and Mrs. Nasatir and Mr. and Mrs. Kraus as a Brandies University Committee are: Rabbis and Mesdames Morton J. Cohn, Monroe Levens and Baruch Stern.  also Doctors and Mesdames J.A. Kwint, Robert Stone, and Ernest Wolf, and Messrs. and Mesdames Samuel Addleson, Abraham Abramson, Elias Berwin, Edward Breitbard, Morris Douglas, Harry E. Farb, Jerome Freedman, Murray Goodrich, Rodin S. Horrow, Albert Hutler, Maxwell Kaufman, Edward Kitaen, Eli Levenson, Harry Mallen, Lou Mogy, Maury Novak, Sol Price, Milton Roberts, David Schloss, Victor Schulman, Wm. B. Schwartz, Isadore Teacher and Henry Weinberger.  This is the first occasion on which Dr. Sachar will speak to the San Diego community on Brandeis University.

October 26, 1951—1) "Horace Heidt Show Here October 27 and 28," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 1: Horace Heidt brings a three-hour show and Youth Opportunity program to Russ Auditorium on Saturday, October 27 and Sunday, October 28, under the sponsorship of Tifereth Israel Men's Club. In addition to the regular cast of fifty, six acts of local talent chosen as the winners of the auditions here last week will also appear. Jerry Levens, the son of Rabbi Monroe Levens, and an accomplished pianist, was chosen as one of the winners and will perform in the Saturday night show which starts at 8 p.m....

2) "Letters to Editor," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 2: Dear Mr. Kaufman: Here is a program of the San Diego Open Forum lectures. I believe these lectures should be of great interest to our San Diego Jewish community. Also an announcement of the Sunday morning radio talks by Peter Samson of the Unitarian Church. His liberal and enlightened outlook on social questions I believe to be of great importance—especially to the Jewish community—in this critical time. He is one of the strongest voices in San Diego against all racial feeling and oppression of minorities. Peter Samson has the support of both Rabbi Cohn and Rabbi Levens and I believe he should receive the active support of every Jew in the community. Sincerely, Lillian G. Buck.

3) "Services at Tifereth Israel," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 7:  The choir of the Tifereth Israel Synagogue will be honored at the Friday evening services, October 26, at 8:15 p.m. Members of the choir include: Rose Abrams, Leah Cohein, Sandra Cole, Gertrude Diamond, Mary gordon, Suzanne Kagen, Maedele Richlin, Norma Schaffer, Clara Sosna, Ruth Suchman, Charles Juster, Joseph Kader and Bob Wohl. Rabbi Levens will speak on "Sing unto the Lord." An Oneg Shabbat will follow the service.  At the Sabbath evening services on Friday, November 2, at 8:15 p.m., the newly-elected officers of the Tifereth Israel Young People's League will be installed. Rabbi Levens will speak.  At the conclusion of the service, members of the young Peoples League will gather together for an Installation Party. At the same time, the regular Oneg Shabbat will take place in the Social Hall.

November 9, 1951—Photo and caption, Southwestern Jewish Press, page 1:

November 9, 1951—1) "Bond Group Swings Into Action to Prepare for Bond Rally," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 1: (Story with above photo) -- Last Sunday more than forty women representing all the Jewish organizations in San Diego met at Temple Beth Israel for a first "Miracle Sunday" drive to start the Israel Bond Weeks proclaimed by Acting Mayor Schneider. After breakfast and an address by the charming Mrs. Sidney Slotkin of Los Angeles, Vice President of Hadassah in Los Angeles and Chairman of Women for B.I.G. in Los Angeles, all the women rang door bells to sell the "Miracle" to the community.  Marie Berg, Chairman of the Women's Division, Murray Goodrich and Louis Steinman also added words of encouragement to the volunteer Bond Salesmen. The following women participated: Mrs. Eleanor Gordon, Pioneer Women; Mrs. Bertha Veitzer, Labor Zionists; Mrs. Esther Cole, Beth Jacob Auxiliary; Mrs. Minnie Harris, Hadassah, and Mrs. Joseph Krone ($4050.00 was collected). Rabbis Morton J. Cohn, Baruch Stern and Monroe Levens acted as a joint committee in this bond campaign as "special salesman." According to Murray Roman, So. Calif. Bond Manager, more than 60 people attended special meetings at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Murray Goodrich last Monday night. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Louis Steinman last Tuesday night was also the scene of another committee to spark the enthusiasm for the sale of Israel bonds.

2) "Katcher-Deutch Wedding Set," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 2: Florence Deutch, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles N. Deutch, will become the bride of Lieut. (jg) Martin J. Katcher, son of Mr. H. Katcher of Kingston, New York, Sunday, Nov. 11, 3:00 p.m. at Tifereth Israel Synagogue. Rabbi Monroe Levens will officiate at the ceremony...


November 21, 1951—1) "'Keep Israel Alive'—Vice President Urges," Southwestern Jewish Press, pages 1, 8: "The Cause of Israel appeals to every human being who believes in justice and decency. There could be no greater disaster than the collapse of Israel." These were the worlds of Vice President Alben W. Barkley Sunday night when he addressed a rally in Tifereth Israel Synagogue, at which a new community total of $200,000.00 was pledged for the purchase of State of Israel Independence Bonds.  The Vice President's talk so stirred the community that the leadership of the United Jewish Fund and the San Diego Committee for B.I. G. (Bonds of the Israel Government) is taking steps to guarantee $250,000 worth of bond purchases within the next ten days. "It is essential that Israel fortify its economy so that it can continue to take its place with the free nations of the earth. No nation can stay free without a solid economy and these bonds that you are being urged to pledge will guarantee to insure Israel's continuing to take its place with the free nations of the earth," Barkley told the hundreds of members of the San Diego Jewish Community who were present in the Synagogue.  Presiding at the rally was Louis Steinman, chairman of the San Diego Committee for B.I.G.; the sponsoring organization for the Vice President's appearance in San Diego. Victor Schulman, co-chairman of the San Diego Committee, presented an 8-foot scroll to the Vice President expressing the Jewish community's appreciation to Barkley. The scroll will be available for more signatures at both Temple and Synagogue and meetings in the next few weeks.  Hundreds marched to the dais of the Synagogue to give their pledges to buy parts of the $500,000,00.00 Israel Bond issue.  George A. Scott, president of the San Diego Council of Churches declared, "The cause of Israel is both for Jews and non-Jews."  He paid tribute to the Vice President and said, "his talk was one which should have been heard by all Americans."  Mr. Scott expressed his concern for Israel's economic future by purchasing a $1,000 bond in the name of Jerry Levens, son of Rabbi Monroe Levens.  Before the rally, Vice President and Mrs. Barkley were guests at a dinner in the Hotel Manor. Rabbi Monroe Levens delivered the invocation and Cantor Julian Miller led in the signing of the "Star Spangled Banner."  Acting Mayor Schneider welcomed the Vice President on behalf of the city and urged the all out support of the sale of Israel Bonds. Federal Judge Weinberger also welcomed the Veep. More than 100,000.00 was pledged for the purchase of Israel Bonds at the dinner. Mrs. William L. Moss, chairman of Women for B.I.G., presented Mrs. Barkley with an orchid on behalf of the Women's Division and the Jewish Community.  Mrs. Rose Neumann was chairman of the Dinner Committee. Mesdames Julia Neumann, Mary Kantor and Rose Gordon assisted her. Mrs. Eve Chenkin was in charge of the decorations. The Jolly Sixteen contributed the table decorations and Mrs. Barkley's orchid. Monday morning, the Vice President held a press conference with representatives of all the local press and news services. Every radio station was represented and took tape recordings of his remarks which dealt with the subjects of Israel and world affairs. Messrs. Louis Steinman, Victor Schulman, Murray D. Goodrich and Sol Price said farewell and God's speed to the Vice President and Mrs. Barkley on their departure for Los Angeles. Murray D. Goodrich and Victor Schulman have accepted the co-chairmanship of the San Diego Committee of Bonds for Israel Government. Mr. Harry Zall has accepted the chairmanship of the Special Sales Committee.

2) Photo and caption with advertisement for Greenwood Cemetery, page 4:



3) "Notice of Annual Meeting and Report of Nominating Committee," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 8: Notice is hereby given of the Annual Meeting of the United Jewish Fund of San Diego to be held on Sunday, December 9, 1951, at the El Cortez Hotel. The annual election of members of the Board of Directors to fill the vacancies will be held at this time at or about 8:00 p.m. The Nominating Committee submitting the names for election to the Board of Directors includes: Harry Farb, Chairman; Mrs. Gabriel Berg; Ben Harris, Harry Mallen, Nathaniel Ratner, Harry Snyder, Ruben Umansky.  A) Monimation for Members of the Board of Directors for 2-year Terms (1952-1954): Abe Abramson, Mrs. Gabriel Berg, I.L. Domnitz, Morris Douglas, Jack Gross, David Horowitz, Rodin Horrow, Ralph Hosenpud, Yalke Kahn, Morry Levenson, B.B. Margolis, Dr. A.P.Nasatir, Milton Roberts, Nathan Schiller, Albert Steinman, Dr. Robert M. Stone, Harry Snyder, Ruben Umansky, Alex Wise. B) Members of the Board of Directors whose terms do not expire:  Past Presidents—Judge Jacob Weinberger; Nathan F. Baranov;Eli H. Levenson; Rabbis—Rabbi Morton J. Cohn; Rabbi Monroe Levens, Rabbi Baruch Stern; Areas—Arthur L. Cohen, Elmer Glaser, William Schwartz; David Block; William Burnett; Harry Farb; Manuel Fisher; Jerome Freedman; Irving Friedman; Arthur Gardner; Murray D.Goodrich; Ben Harris; Richard Levi; Julius Levin, Harry Mallen, Louis Moorsteen; Dr. W. Ornstein, Sol Price; Seymour Rabin; Nathaniel Ratner, Ben Rubin, Victor Schulman, Louis Steinman, Henry Weinberger.  C) Members of the Board of Directors whose terms expire: Mrs. Gabriel Berg, Edward Bland, Saul Chenkin, I.L. Domnitz, Morris Douglas, Rodin Horrow; Ralph Hosenpud, Alex Newman, Morris Niederman, Abe Ratner, Dr. Oscar Ravin, Milton Roberts, Abe Sackheim, Nathan Schiller, Victor Schulman, Mrs. Anna Shelley, Sam Sosna, Dr. Robert Stone, Harry Snyder, Reuben Umansky.  D) In accordance with the By-Laws of the United Jewish Fund, independent nominations of candidates for election at the annual meeting may also be made by any 5 members (paid up contributors) provided the same is delivered with the written acceptance of the candidate to the Secretary or Executive Director of the Corporation no later than Friday, November 30, 1951, 5:00 p.m.

December 7, 1951—"'My Mission in Israel'" Southwestern Jewish Press, page 7: At the Sabbath Eve. Service at Tifereth Israel, friday, December 7, 8:15 p.m., Rabbi Monroe Levens will review the book, "My Mission in Israel," by James MacDonald, first U.S. ambassador to the new State.  This review is offered in conjunction with the observance of Jewish Book Month, which continues through December 23.  An Oneg Shabbat will follow the Service, at which time the Current Events discussion will take place. All are cordially invited...

-1952-
January 11, 1952 —
1) "Personals," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 3: Fifty (50) short years were celebrated by Mr. and Mrs Ignatz Rottman on December 22.  Their children Leonard, Lillian and Ben held a large reception for their parents at Leonard's home. After the ceremony, officiated by Rabbi Monroe Levens, Mr. Rottman surprised his "bride" with a new diamond wedding band. They left with daugther Lillian for an extended visit in the East. They will return to San Diego via Florida.

2) "The Cradle," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 3: On December 18, Stanley Lawrence joined brother Jackie in the Irving Sonnabaum family. Stanley was born at Coronado hospital and weighed 8 lbs, 13 1/l2 ozs.  Rabbi Monroe Levens officiated at the Bris held at home on December 25th. Paterna
l grandmother is Mrs. Rosalie Sonnabaum; maternal grandmother is Mrs. Helen Eisen, all of San Diego. ...  10 lb, 6 oz. Larry Brian is now king-ping in the Joseph Frenkel's home. Larry arrived on December 30, at Mercy Hospital, making his grandparents Mr. and Mrs. Harry Apelman and Mrs. Esther Frankel very happy.  Rabbi Monroe Levens officated at the Bris held at home. Godfather is Mr. Jack Zaitzow, of Vancouver, B.C.

3) "Dr. Charles Falk To Speak At Tifereth Israel Services," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 5:  Tifereth Israel Sabbath Services will have as guest speaker Dr. Charles J. Falk who will speak on the subject; "Religion and the Public Schools."  Dr. Falk is Assistant Superintendent of the San Diego Public schools, and Secretary of the Board of Education...At the Sabbath Morning Service January 12, 9:00 a.m., Rabbi Monroe Levens' sermon will be "Let Us Deal Wisely." An Oneg Shabbat will follow the Service. Our hosts will be Mr. and Mrs. Moe Berlin and Mrs. Monroe Levens. Sabbath Morning Service, Jan. 19, 9:00 a.m., Mr. and Mrs. Harold Keen announce the Bar Mitzvah of their son, Lawrence David. The Congregation is cordially invited.

4) "Resolution of the Board of Tifereth Israel Synagogue," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 5: In view of the fact that the leadership of our Rabbi has been challenged with unfounded and unwarranted aspersions cast on his motives and prerogatives {see Jan. 11, 1952,  column by Rabbi Levens}, the Board of Directors of Tifereth Israel Synagogue at its regular meeting on December 27,1 951, has passed the following resolution: The Board of Directors of Tifereth Israel Synagogue hereby reaffirms its faith and full confidence in the leadership of its Rabbi, with full relaince on his integrity of motive and sincerity of purpose. Under his guidance, Tifereth Israel has progressed in a few years to a position of outstanding leadership and effectiveness, benefiting the entire Jewish and general communities. He has greatly helped to build Jewish life in San Diego and has won the acclaim of civic and religious leadership here. Tifereth Israel Synagogue will stand firm on its principle of a free pulpit and free expression for its Rabbi, knowing of his full honesty to promote constructively the welfare of Jewish life; and it will answer directly and forcefully any attempt on the part of any individual or group to discredit the position of the Rabbinate anywhere. The honor of the Rabbinate is the honor of the Synagogue, and the honor of Judaism.  The resolution is promulgated with the strong feeling that the overwhelming opinion of the Jewish community is in agreement with it; and that, based on a sense of pride in, and respect for religious leadership, our community can achieve harmony, cooperation, and the satisfaction of a rich, spiritual Jewish life.

5)
"Greenwood Announces Winner Of Mausoleum Contest," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 7: The winner of Greenwood Memorial Park and Mausoleum Name Contest was Mrs. Henry Mallen, according to announcement by Frederick E. Davies, Greenwood general manager. The winning entry was "Sholom (Peace) Mausoleum," which will be the future name of Greenwood's impressive new exclusively Jewish mausoleum.  Mallen received $100 for her winning efforts and another $100 went to Tifereth Israel Synagogue in her name. She received her check from William  Hodson of the Greenwood staff. Mr. M.S. Berlin, president of Tifereth Israel Synagogue, was awarded the check for his organization. Contest judges were Rabbis Monroe Levens, Morton J. Cohn, Baruch Stern as well as Mr. Hodson....

6) "Daughters of Israel," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 7: The next regular meeting of the Daughters of Israel will be held January 31. Mrs. Ida Pearl, newly elected president, will preside. Mary schwartz is the new Purchase Chairman instead of Mary Schuleck. The joint installation on Dec. 30 was an inspiring affair. Rabbi Levens installed the officers and Rabbi Rosenberg of Los Angeles delivered an interesting speech. Rose Neumann, out-going president, received a beautiful gift.  Under the leadership of Ida Pearl and her capable officers the Daughters of Israel expect a successful year.

7) "Greenwood announces winner of new Jewish Mausoleum Name Contest: Mrs. Harry (Freda) Mallen, 4127 Palisades Road, San Diego of Tifereth Israel, who submitted the name of Sholom Mausoleum," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 8: (more ad text): In the opinion of the judges—a prominent group of local Hebrew scholars—Rabbis Monroe Levens, Morton J. Cohn, Baruch Stern and the Greenwood representative, William Hodson, Mrs. Mallen's entry was the most appropriate and showed the greatest amount of originality. Understandably, the decision of the judges was final...and there were no duplicate awards...

February 8, 1952—1) "Mayor Speaks At Tifereth Israel," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 5: The Honorable John Butler, mayor of San Diego, will be the guest speaker at Sabbath Services on Friday, February 8,m 8:15 p.m. Mayor Butler has recently returned from a visit to the Orient. His analysis of world events should be enlightening and valuable to us. Oneg Shabbat will follow the service; hosts Daughters of Israel. Friday, February 15, will mark the celebration of "United Synagogue Sabbath." Rabbi Monroe Levens will speak. Robert Blumer, Bar Mitzvah, will participate in the service...

2) "Deceased," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 5:  Gottlieb, Rose—Passed away on Jan. 28th; Mother of Estelle Rottman and Wm. Gopttlieb. Services Jan. 29th at Lewis Colonial Mortuary; Rabbi Monroe Levens officiated.... Weissman, Miriam—on Jan 25th.  Survived by her husband, David, daughter Gail Anne, her parents Mr. and Mrs. Morris Fried, and two sisters, Mrs. Charlotte Shutz and Mrs. Esther Licker, of Van Nuys, Calif. She was a resident of San Diego for 19 years and a member of Yo-Ma-Co Club. Services were held Sunday, January 27th in the Lewis Colonial Mortuary.  Rabbi Monroe Levens officiated. Interment was at the Home of Peace Cemetery.

3) "Tifereth Israel Sisterhood," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 6: February is Brotherhood month—and highlight of the Tifereth Israel Sisterhood meeting and Tea Tuesday, Feb. 12th, which will be at 1:00 p.m. at the Synagogue is a panel discussion between Peter Samson of the Unitarian church, Dr. Lester E. Bond of the Kensington community Church and Rabbi Monroe Levens on "Making Brotherhood Real."...Members of the Board, Mrs. Abe Ratner, chairman and Mrs. Ben Gordon, co-chairman, will be personal hostesses to the invited guests, and general hostesses for the tea.

February 22, 1952—1) "Deceased," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 3: Dembo—Lillian, 74 years of age, on February 9th, in a local hospital. A native of New York, she had resided here for four years and was a resident of the Home for the Aged. services were held on February 11th at Lewis Colonial Mortuary, Rabbi Monroe Levens officiating. Interment was at Home of Peace Cemetery. Survivors include her husband, Joseph, and a nephew, Mr. Frank Hirschberg, of Los Angeles.


2) Bob Meyers, "AZA Column," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 4: On Friday night, February 1, San Diego AZA conducted the services, served refreshments and were installed in their various posts by the installing officers, Edward Breitbard and Stanley Yukon at the Tifereth Israel Synagogue. The new office holders are: Allan Goodman, Aleph Godol; Leonard Naiman, Aleph S'gan; Gary Breitbard; Aleph Mazkir; Abe Glaser, Aleph Gizbor; Harry Slayen, Aleph Kohen Godol; Jim Recht, Aleph Shotare Godol; Roger Brenes, Aleph Shotare Kotone; Bob Meyers and Larry Schiller, Aleph Sophers. Four of the installees assisted Rabbi Levens in conducting the service, reading in the Hebrew and the English...

3) "Danny Glasser To Be Bar Mitzvah," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 6: Danny Glasser, son of Mrs. Evely Riffett and Sam Glasser, and grandson of Mrs. Edith Naiman, will be Bar Mitzvah on Saturday, March 1st at Tifereth Israel Synagogue at 10 a.m. Rabbi Monroe Levens will officiate...

4) "Jewish Community Backs Red Cross Drive," Southwestern Jewish Press, pages 7,8: The Jewish people of San Diego County have joined with Catholics and Protestants in setting aside a day to be designated as Red Cross Sabbath—a day for a message concerning the current Red Cross fund campaign. Rabbi Monroe Levens and M. S. Berlin, president of the congregation, have set Friday, Feb. 29, and Saturday, March 1, as Red Cross Sabbaths at Tifereth Israel Synagogue. Rabbi Levens will preach a Red Cross sermon on Saturday. Rabbi Baruch Stern has set March 1 as Red Cross Sabbath for Congregation Beth Jacob and will deliver a special message about the Red Cross to his people. Friday, March 7 has been set as Red Cross Sabbath at Temple Beth Israel by Rabbi Morton J. Cohn. He also will make a special plea on behalf of the Red Cross.  Among those who are urging support of the Red Cross campaign are Mr. Berlin, Al Hutler, executive secretary of the United Jewish Fund; Zel Camiel, market owner, and Irving E. Friedman, member of the board of directors of the Red Cross' San Diego chapter and campaign worker. Mr. Berlin will enlist six members of the Jewish community for volunteer work in the campaign. Mr. Hutler and Mr. Camiel are giving leadership in the solicitation of business houses in a a large downtown district. Mr. Friedman said that the Red Cross must raise $440,274 in the city and county in March. He added that if the drive is to be successful, San Diegans will have to give almost 13 percent more than they gave in 1951. "It is the responsibility of the Red cross to carry out its programs for service men and civilians of all faiths. It is the urgent hope of the Red Cross that persons of all faiths will support the forthcoming drive," Friedman said. "All San Diegans must cooperate if the drive is to be successful. They must not only give money but also time. I hope many of our people will offer to work during the campaign," he added.  "Call Main 2071."

5) "Purim Enters on Horse and Wagon," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 8: How Queen Esther might have acted in the days of the Wild West is the theme of a merry Purim farce called "The Robbery at Goldfarb's Gulch," to be presented at the March 2 meeting of the Y.J.C. Club of the Tifereth Israel Synagogue. Cowboys and Indians, fair maidens and villains will be played by Messrs and Mmes. Herman Hornstein, Joe Singer, Howard Kaufmann, Bert Goldberg and Sandy Alter. Much laughter and gaiety is promised.  Rabbi Monroe Levens will b eon hand to explain the significnce and customs of Purim and to answer any possible questions about the holiday.

March 21, 1952—1) "Personals," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 3: Jean and Ernest Schindler are the proud parents of a son, Neil Lance, born Feb. 25th at Mercy Hospital. Neil weighed 11 lbs., 1 oz. He has a sister, Gail Carolyn, 2 1/2 years of age. The bris was held on Tuesday, March 4th, Mohel Schwartz of Los Angeles officiating, assisted by Rabbi Monroe Levens. Maternal grandparents are Mr. and Mrs. J. Gulco and paternal grandparents are Mr. and Mrs. S. Schindler, all of this city.

2) "In Memoriam," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 8: Yarzheit services will be held Friday evening, March 21st, at Tifereth Israel Synagogue for Leo Brett. Rabbi Monroe Levens will officiate. Unveiling of the stone will be held on Sunday, March 23rd at 2:30 p.m. at the Home of Peace Cemetery...

3) "Tifereth Israel News," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 8: At the regular Sabbath Evening Services on Friday, March 21, at 8:15 p.m., Rabbi Levens will address the Congregation. Cantor Joseph Cysner and the Choir will officiate. Mr. and Mrs. A. Brenes will be honored on the occasion of their Golden Wedding Anniversary. Members of the family who will serve as hosts at the Oneg Shabbat, are: Mr. and Mrs. Sy Fein, Mr. and Mrs. Irving Brenes, Mr. and Mrs. W.H. Goodman, Mr. and Mrs. Rubin Aved, and Mr. and Mrs. Sam Brenes.  Sabbath Morning Services on March 22 will begin at 8:30 a.m.. Mr. and Mrs. A. Brenes will be hosts following the service. The Family and Youth Service will take place at 10:30 a.m., after which will follow a lunch for all members of the Junior Congregation. ** Rabbi Levens will deliver the sermon at the Sabbath Evening Services on friday, March 28, at 8:15 p.m. with Cantor and Choir officiating. Hosts for the Oneg Shabbat will be: Mr. and Mrs. Louis Addleson, Mr. and Mrs. Sam Addleson, Mr. and Mrs. Harry Addleson, and members of their families in honor of the arrival of two baby boys.  Sabbath Morning service at 9 :00 a.m. Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Kader announce the Bar Mitzvah of their son, Errol. The Congregation is cordially invited.

April 4, 1952—1) (untitled), Southwestern Jewish Press, page 4: Matzohs! Chrain! Hagadahs! In fact, a complete Model Seder will be the order of the evening at the Y.J.C. Club Sunday, April 6. The purpose of this meeting, according to Ruth and Irving Yegliss, chairmen, is to acquaint members of the Club with the age old Passover story and traditions, so that they will be able to conduct their own seders in their homes.  Rabbi Monroe Levens will be3 on hand to explain the history and significance of the holiday.

2) "Tifereth Israel Passover Services," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 19: ...At the regular Friday Evening Services, on April 4, 8:15 p.m., Rabbi Levens will address the Congregation on a Passover theme. Cantor Cysner and the Choir will officiate. An Oneg Shabbat will follow the service....

April 18, 1952—"1) Zionist Council of San Diego to Sponsor Celebration of Israeli Independence Day," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 1: The Zionist Council of San Diego will sponsor a public celebration to commemorate the fourth anniversary of Israel's Independence on Wed., April 30, at Beth Jacob Auditorium at 8 p.m. An interesting and entertaining program has been arranged by Miss Maedelle Richlin, program chairman and Mrs. Sidney Goldhammer, chairman of the Zionist Council, utilizing the best of local talent. 'Cultural Interchanges, a Two Way Bridge Between Israel and America" will be the theme of a panel discussion. Rabbi Baruch Stern will discuss the cultural values which will emanate from Israel to America and Rabbi Monroe Levens will talk on the cultural benefits which American Jewry has to offer Israel in turn.  The musical part of the program will of course follow the Israeli motif with songs and folk dancing by our own local dance group. By arrangement with Professor G. Grisha Borushek, prominent violin teacher, his artist pupil Albert Saford who is a member of the S.D. Philharmonic Orchestra will pay several violin solos of Hebraic musical themes especially prepared for this program.  He will be accompanied by Mrs. Gerita Hanna. A nominal admission fee will be charge, all net proceeds to be used for providing a travel fellowship for the forthcoming study tour to Israel. An important project for furthering public relations for Israel, this travel fellowship will be rewarded to some outstanding Christian of this city.  A reception will follow the program.  Refreshments are in charge of Mrs. Anna Peckarsky and Mrs. Chas. Press. The public is cordially invited to attend this happy Birthday Party.

May 2, 1952—1) "New Home," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 3: Rabbi and Mrs. Monroe Levens and the members of the Board of Directors of Tifereth Israel Synagogue held a Housewarming in honor of the Consecration of the new home of Mr. and Mrs. M.S. Berlin on April 19. Partially a surprise to the Berlins, the affair was well appreciated.

2) "Tifereth Israel News," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 6: Friday, May 2, 1952:...Sabbath Services—Friday, May 2, 8:15 p.m. Rabbi Monroe Levens will speak on the subject "Who Is A Jew?"  Simple though this question may sound, it is involved and intricate. To answer the above question, one must not only be familiar with Jewish history, but must have also formulated some philosophy for present day Jewish living. An open forum will follow the Service, with questions and comments by the Congregation.  Our usual Oneg Shabbat will follow the service...

May 16, 1952—1) "B'nai B'rith Girls," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 8: The B.B.G's will hold their annual installation and installation of new members on Friday, May 16 at 8 p.m. at Tifereth Israel Synagogue.  Rabbi Monroe Levens will be installing officer with Mrs. Ted Brav, President of the Birdie Stodel Chapter of B'nai B'rith as his assistant.  Preceding the installation the incoming and outgoing boards and initiates will attend a dinner at Tops at which special guests will be present. Officers being installed are as follows: Gloria Abramson, Pres.; Judy Yukon, V.P.; Estelle Berwin, Treas.; Elani Barach, Rec. Sec.; Lydia Samuals, Cor. Sec.; Barbara Silverman, Sen.; Brahna Lauger, Hist.; Natalie Veitzer, Cond. and Edith Press, Coun.

2) "Deceased," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 8: SHAPOV, Isaias, 45 years of age, on May 3rd, in Calexico. A native of Lithuania, he had resided in California for fifteen years and was owner of the Reality Furniture Co. here until moving to Calexico two months ago. He was a member of a Masonic Lodge in Mexico and of the Tifereth Israel Synagogue here. Services were held on May 5th at Lewis Colonial Mortuary. Rabbi Monroe Levens officiating. Interment was at Home of Peace Cemetery. Survivors include his wife, Ida, and children, ethel, Joel, Moses Shapov and a daughter, Mrs. Ben Kutchuck, and grandson, Michael Simon Kutchuck.

May 30, 1952—1) "Joan Press Wed To Michael Cooper," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 3: Joan Edith Press, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Isadore Press, was married to Michael Irwin Cooper, son of Mr. and Mrs. Lester Cooper on May 25th. Rabbi Morton J. Cohn and Rabbi Monroe Levens performed the ceremony under a canopy of ivy and all white gardenias, carnations and violets, at the Tifereth Israel synagogue at 7 p.m...

2) "Esther Mador-Herbert Weiller," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 3: Esther Helene Mador, daughter of Mr. and MRs. Eli Mador of Springfield, Mass., was wed to Herbert ARnold Weiller, son of Mr. and Mrs. Marcel Weiller of Carlsbad, New. Mexico on June 1st at 4 p.m. in the Tifereth Israel Syangogue. Rabbi Monroe Levens officiated at the ceremony...

3) "Deceased," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 4: SHRIEBMAN, Harry, 64 years of age, on May 17th, in Lon Beach. Born in Russia, he lived in San Diego and owned the Southern California Junk and Bottle Supply Co. here until he moved to Long Beach a year ago. Mr. Shriebman was a member of congregation tifereth Israel, Long Beach I.O.O.F. Lodge and San Diego Eagles Lodge. Services were held on May 20th at Lewis Colonial Mortuary, Rabbi Mornoe Levens officiating. Survivors include his son, David, of San Diego, and two daughters, MRs. Nathan Goldman of Los Angeles and Mrs. Jack Meyers of San Diego. Interment was at the Home of Peace Cemetery.

4) "Tifereth Israel Sisterhood," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 8: Tifereth Israel Sisterhood's final meeting, before the summer recess, will be on tuesday, June 10th at 11:30 when Mrs. Sidney Newman and her corps of hostesses will serve a most delectable brunch, a wide variety of foods to choose from, and plenty of it.  Mrs. Monroe Levens, program chairman for this happy event, has planned a novel and inspiring Biblical Installation. Rabbi Monroe Levens will install the following for the year 1952-1953. President, Mrs. Alex J. Newman; 1str Vice Pres., Mrs. Harry Wax. 2nd Vice Pres., Mrs. Henry Price. 3rd Vice. Pres., Mrs. Woodrow Ratner. Recording Sec., Mrs. Max Zemen.  Corresponding Sec., Mrs. Victor Weiss; Financial Sec., Mrs. E. Warren Oglesby. Treasurer, Mrs. Harold Garvin. Auditor, Mrs. Sol Frank. Members of theBoard: Mesdames Moe Berlin, Irving Goodman, Moe Hershey, Celia Jacobs, William Moss, Rose Mackall, Sidney Naliboff, Abe Ratner, Herman Sarfan, Dave Schloss, Sam Sklar, Sam Solomon. Following the installation, cellist Eugene Sacks, member of the San Diego Philharmonic and of the San Diego Symphony Orchestra, accompanied at the piano by Irene Urner, will give several selections. Our own Cantor Joseph Cysner will sing a special song for the day. Remember, this is at 11:30 on June 10th at the Synagogue. Call Roanne Oglesby, talbot 1-6034; Lillian Newman, Talbot 1-6961.

June 13, 1953—1) "Young Jewish Couples Club To Hear Panel On The Wondering Jew," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 5:  "Who is a Jew," will be the topic to be discussed by Mrs. Meir Barach, Rabbi Monroe Levens, and Mr. Eli Levenson at the next meeting of the Young Jewish Couples Club, Sunday, June 18, 8:00 p.m. at the Tifereth Israel Synagogue.  "What is a Good Jew" and "Do I have to go to Synagogue," are some of the questions to be discussed, according to Lewis Anfanger, president. These questions will be answered from the conservative and layman viewpoint. All three talks will be very short and questions will be asked from the floor. All young couples that would be interested are encouraged to attend.

2) "Unveilings," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 5: The unveiling of a monument in memory of Rose Malamud will take place on June 22nd at 2:30 p.m. at the Home of Peace Cemetery.  Services will be conducted by Rabbi Monroe Levens. All friends are invited to attend.

3) "Deceased," Southwestern Jewish Press, page 6  GIBSON, Rose, 70 years of age, on June 9th, in a local hospital. Born in Russia, Mrs. Gibson lived here for 3 years. She was a resident of the San Diego Hebrew Home for the Aged. Services were held on June 10th at Lewis Colonial Mortuary,  Rabbi Monroe Levens officiating.  Survivors include two sons, I.J. Gibson of San Diego, Henry Gibson of Florida, and two daughters, MRs. S. Phillips of Missouri and Mrs. Nathan Levinson of Virginia. Interment will be in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

-1992-
July 27, 1992Eulogy for Sam Brenes, delivered by Rabbi Leonard Rosenthal
September 6, 1992
Eulogy for Katherine Fleishner delivered by Rabbi Leonard Rosenthal
November 18, 1992—Eulogy for Irving A. Goodman delivered by Rabbi Leonard Rosenthal

-2005-
2005-09-21   Donald H. Harrison, "San Diego Jews taking root: Four historic community events coincide," San Diego Jewish Times, September 21, 2005.

October 31, 2005—Visit to gravesite of Rabbi Monroe & Lillian Levens, Shalom Lawn, Greenwood Cemetery, San Diego:

Levens family monument                                                                                                         Closeup of epitaph for Rabbi Monroe Levens

December 9, 2005—Tifereth Israel Synagogue, "Centennial Rededication Service," December 9, 2005/ 9 Kislev 5766, page 10: Centennial History Project—Tifereth Israel Synagogue, founded in 1905, has embarked on a unique venture to commemorate its centennial.  The Centennial History Project was created at the direction of the Centennial Committee, charged with producing a comprehensive history of Tifereth Israel Synagogue since its founding at the beginning of the twentieth century. The book is scheduled to be released on March 1, 2006, just prior to to Tifereth Israel Synagogue's Gala Centennial Ball.  Drawing on the professional skills of numerous volunteers, the History Project will create a beautiful, scholarly and personal volume that combines in depth research with oral histories. By recording this moment in our story, we hope to embody the spirit and character of the community that will take us into our second century.  Those who are working on the Project see the history of Tifereth Israel Synagogue as falling into three natural eras reflecting its three congregational homes: 18th and Market Streets; Howard Street, and its present location on Cowles Mountain Boulevard. The History Project is researching these periods anew, using resources never before consulted, to tell our story. The Project has already found details, once thought lost, which help us better understand the congregation's history and growth. Further, by emphasizing the voices drawn from interviews and shared anecdotes, we expect to produce a lively and wholly original history.  The book will also include a full-color section detailing the many pieces of fine art that adorn Tifereth Israel Synagogue's current building. Explanations of the artwork, as well as details about their creators and donors, will further enhance the publication. A measure of the quality that can be expected from the completed project is the quality of the volunteer who are working on the project.  Donald H. Harrison is a prize-winning journalist who has covered San Diego's political and religious news since 1972 for numerous publications. Currently a columnist for the San Diego Jewish Times, he is the author of the biography, Louis Rose: San Diego's First Jewish Settler and Enterpreneur and is a member of the City of San Diego's Historical Resources Board.  Rabbi Monroe Levens served as spiritual leader of Tifereth Israel from 1948 until his death in 1981.  Monroe and Lilliian Levens had three sons, all of whom are contributing to this book.  Jerry Levens, who holds a Ph.D in economics, taught at Berkeley before specializing in the economics of health care systems. David Levens also taught college before becoming a real estate broker. Raphael Levens practiced law locally before entering the field of non-profit administration.  A native of Los Angeles (Temple Knesset Israel in Hollywood), David Ogul has reported and edited at Southern California newspapers since graduating from San Diego State University in 1981.  In September, 2000, he was hired as an assistant metro editor by the San Diego Union-Tribune to lead the paper's crime and public safety coverage, and helped oversee coverage of the Santana High School and Granite Hills High Schoo9l shootings and the massive Cedar fire. Earlier this year, he took on a new challenge, supervising a team of reporters covering San Diego neighborhoods and San Diego Unifed School District.  As a noted collector of contemporary art, Karen Hjalmarson has been a participant in the Visual Arts scene in San Diego for over twenty years. Hjalmarson holds a B.A. in history from University of California, Los Angeles, and an M.A. in art history from San Diego State University.  She has written numerous essays on contemporary art while serving as co-director of the Hyde Gallery at Grossmont College. Hjalmarson is the author of Twenty Years Later: Four Sculptors from San Diego.  Currently she teaches English at Parkway Middle School and is also the editor of "Intellectual Ludicrous," a young writers' anthology.  Gail Rice, associate editor of the Centennial History Project, is a professional editor with 18 years' experience, primarily in developing content for scholarly encyclopedias. At Harcourt, Inc., and at Academic Press, a division of Harcourt, she was recognized as a detail-oriented and efficient project manager with a reputation for producing reference materials of the highest quality and marketability. In 2004 Rice established her own consulting business, Open Book Editorial Services.  Laurie Gore, chair of the Centennial History Project, worked as a production editor at Academic Press, a division of Harcourt Brace, Inc., and at University of California before training as a graphic designer. Her volunteer work at Tifereth Israel Synagogue has been recognized by regional and national awards.  In addition to these, numerous other volunteers are working on cataloging the primary  sources at Tifereth Israel Synagogue, reaching out to the business community for their support, and in many other capacities to make this book an unparalleled collaboration. We are especially appreciative of those members and friends of Tifereth Israel Synagogue who have shared their memories and mementos. We welcome all members of the community to participate in this project by contacting Tifereth Israel Synagogue.

December 14, 2005Donald H. Harrison, "Louis Rose Society—An Update," San Diego Jewish Times, page 12

December 16, 2005—
Tifereth Israel Synagogue, "Tifereth Israel Synagogue Coming Events 12/16/05," (e-mail bulletin): ...Friday, January 13 — Kabbalat Shabbat service at 6:15 p.m. Jerry and Raphael Levens will present "The Life and Times of Rabbi Monroe Levens" as part of our Centennial celebration.



-2006-
January 2006—"The Life and Times of Rabbi Monroe Levens," The Shofar (monthly newsletter of Tifereth Israel Synagogue), page 1: Friday, January 13th,  6:15 p.m.—Rabbi Monroe Levens came to Tifereth Israel Synagogue in 1948 when it opened the doors of its second congregational home on Howard Street. He continued as part of our community until the end of his life, and his impact cannot be underestimated (sic, overestimated).  He was a leader, a scholar, a public figure, and a family man. In a very special appearance, his sons Jerry and Raphael will share their memories of their father and his career.  Join us for this unique evening, including an Oneg sponsored by Sisterhood.

January 1, 2006—"Looking back over 2005: Growing membership, list of honorees, schedule of events, recognition inside and outside our community," Louis Rose Society newsletter Vol. 2, No. 1, jewishsightseeing.com

January 9, 2006—Jewishsightseeing visit to Tifereth Israel Synagogue, 6660 Cowles Mountain Blvd., San Diego, Calif. 92119:


Rabbi Monroe Levens is memorialized on both sides of the Tifereth Israel Synagogue campus.  His portrait hangs on the wall outside the rabbi's
office in the administrative wing of the Conservative congregation.  The plaque naming the education wing for him hangs by the entrance of the
Braun Library.  {Donald H. Harrison photos}

January 13, 2006—1) photo and caption, San Diego Jewish Times, page 10:


(should read: Lillian Levens and Rabbi Monroe Levens)

2) "Tifereth Israel Celebrates Centennial," San Diego Jewish Times, page 10:  "The Life and Times of Rabbi Monroe Levens" will be the topic of Tifereth Israel Syangogue's second Centennial Lecture on Friday, Jan. 12 at 6:15 p.m.  Jerry and Raphael Levens, his sons, will discuss their father's life, legacy, and relationships with the synagogue and its members. Rabbi Levens came to Tifereth Israel Synagogue in 1948, as the congregation opened the doors of its second home on Howard St. in North Park.  He served as rabbi until 1974, at which time he was succeeded by Rabbi Aaron Gold Rabbi Levens continued to serve as Rabbi Emeritus until his death in 1982.  A synagogue spokesperson said, "Rabbi Levens' impact on Tifereth Israel and San Diego's Jewish community cannot be underestimated. AHe was a leader, a scholar, a public figure, and family man. His creativity and devotion helped build Jewish San Diego." The Shabbat service and lecture will be followed by an Oneg Shabbat hosted by the Sisterhood. On Jan. 28 at 7 p.m., Tifereth israel's Men's Club will sponsor a "Rockin' Centennial Sock Hop" in the congregation's newly refurbished Cohen Social Hall. The evening is billed as a "50's Dinner-Dance." It will feature a buffet dinner and dessert, and dancing to the music of the Moon Dawgs Band. The evening is open to the pubic and admission is $25. All proceeds will benefit Tifereth Israel's Camp Ramah Scholarship Fund. Tifereth Israel's Centennial celebration will culminate in a Centennial Ball to be held on March 25. For information, call the synagogue office at 619 607 6001.

2006-01-14—Donald H. Harrison, "Levens saga recalled during nostalgic Shabbat program at Tifereth Israel Synagogue," Jewishsightseeing.com

February 2006—1) "The Life and Times of Monroe Levens, Part 2," The Shofar (monthly bulletin of Tifereth Israel Synagogue), page 1: Jerry and Raphael Levens, whose appearance was such a success in January, will be returning to continue the story of their parents, Lillian and Rabbi Monroe Levens.  Look for an announcement of the day and time.

2) "Sisterhood," The Shofar, page 11: ...The Friday Shabbat service of January 13th featured a presentation by Jerry and Raphael Levens, the sons of Rabbi Monroe Levens. Their interesting and informative presentation was part of Tifereth Israel's centennial celebration. Sisterhood hosted the Oneg and congregants lingered late into the evening.

2006-03-10—Donald H. Harrison, "Susannah Heschel explains her rabbi father's concept of 'praying with my legs'" jewishsightseeing.com, in which Rabbi Levens and two of his sons are mentioned in passing.

2006-05-28—Jerry Levens, "Concerts shows how Shostakovitch, though not Jewish, had great empathy for Jews of the Soviet Union," jewishsightseeing.com 

2006-05-30Jerry Levens, "Maseng presents music that reawakens a Jewish soul," jewishsightseeing.com