Newsletter July 1987

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Volume V, No. 1
Nebraska Jewish Historical Society
333 South 132nd Street
Omaha, Nebraska 68154
July, 1987
Omaha, Nebraska 68154
You're Invited to an "I.D." Party *
and Open-Board Meeting * * AND
a "MAKE YOUR OWN ROOT BEER FLOAT DESSERT"
Wednesday, July 22, 1987, 7:30 P.M.
Jewish Community Center Auditorium
* Hundreds of Pictures Need
Identifying!
* * Election of Officers
and Board Members
for 1987-88
WE NEED YOUR HELP!
1
WE NEED YOUR INPUT!
11 II
(See Slate on Pages)
Discuss Plans For Our 5th Anniversary Celebration - October 12th
Awarding of Prizes in the Morris C. Feilman Memorial Essay Contest
1st Prize - Adult Division - Ethelyn Simon
1st Prize - College Age - Sara Jaffe
1st Prize - 7 to 12 Grade - Joshua Cooper
1st Prize - K to 6 Grade - Alan Josephson
VISIT OUR MINI-MUSEUM EXHIBIT ON "Nebraska Jews in Political Life"
II
I
Shown to the left is one of the pictures of
the late Senator Edward Zorinsky which are on
exhibit in the "Corridor of Jewish History"
museum of the Nebraska Jewish Historical Society
exhibit on "Nebraska Jews in Political Life". The
r
exhibit has been dedicated to the memory of "Ed
Zorinsky" who was the first Jewish U.S. Senator
from Nebraska. Pictured with Zorinsky is "Mrs.
B" Rose Blumkin, founder of the Nebraska
Furniture Mart and an honored member of the
community.
In addition to a large number of photographs and memorabilia from the offices of Zorinsky the exhibit includes photographs and memorabilia of a number of other Jewish
political figures in the state of Nebraska for almost one hundred years. There is also a collection of photographs, cartoons and other
materials on the display wall next to the office of the Nebraska Jewish Historical Society at the JCC. Persons still wishing to add photographs or materials about" Jews in Political Life" are asked to contact the NJHS office, 334-8200, ext. 277 or bring the material to
die OIIILC 1L die JLL-.
First Place
"Growing Up Jewish"
Purim carnivals. He stood behind a large piece of wood with his
Winner - 7 to
face sticking out of a round hole. Everyone got to throw
Bar Mitzvah Memories
12th Grade-sponges
full of water at his face. Usually even I couldn't turn
By Joshua M. Cooper, age 13
Essay Contest
that chance down. All these teachers helped me gain something
I suppose that when one looks back at his life as a
by the time of my Bar Mitzvah.
Jewish child, there are certain things that he remembers. One
I looked at my watch. It was 9:30 A.M. It was time to
thing I am certain that I will look back on and remember is my
begin. As I walked to the bimah I began to feel very hot. I
Bar Mitzvah, as well as the excellent teachers I had. There are
could feel the perspiration around my neck and on my hands. Of
many things which I remember about my Bar Mitzvah...
course, I think I was most likely nervous because of all the
It was September 6, 1986, a clear, sunny Saturday
people watching me. Slowly I became less nervous, until I had
morning. It was the day of my Bar Mitzvah. Services would be
to open my mouth and sing. Many of my friends, including
held at Beth El Synagogue in Omaha, Nebraska. Right before I
myself, would say that the sound that was released from my
walked to the bimah I was asked, "Well, are you ready?" I will
mouth was much different than any sound I have ever produced.
always remember that question. I had been attending services
It was very high to say the least, but soon it returned to near
for quite some time and I was very familiar with the different
normal.
parts of the service. Having studied my haftorah for over a year,
I looked down from
and learning my maftir for some time, I was most certainly
the bimah and looked at the
prepared. Cantor Berkovits was the one who taught me all that I
sanctuary which by this time
needed to know in preparation for my Bar Mitzvah. Cantor
was quite full. I noticed my
helped me and at the same time I had fun learning. I don't
friends making faces at me, and
believe that there are many cantors who are as nice and underI especially noticed the smiles
standing as Cantor Berkovits. I really do sincerely mean that.
on my parents' faces. After my
I had attended Hebrew School since third grade. My
haftorah, I became relaxed and I
first teacher, Mrs. Wise-the best teacher a child could have to
started to enjoy myself. I
start his Hebrew education. When you were doing poorly she
recited my prayer before the
would make the effort to help you, and when you were doing
ark. I spoke of my haftorah and
.,
well she would encourage you to keep it up. I remember Mr.
my Soviet twin, Alexander ReFiedman very well. He would tell us what prayer we were going
ingold. Then Rabbi Drazen
to learn and we would sing it. We sang the same song many
spoke to me about my Torah portion and my responsibilities as a
times. By the end of the year, I knew most of them by heart.
Bar Mitzvah.
Then there was Miss Raush-the only teacher we could call by
When the service was over, we went downstairs for
her first name, Miss Sara. She always made class very fun and
kiddush. I shook everyone's hand, possibly some even twice. It
interesting. Mrs. Kaslow was a great teacher. Her subject, the
was over, I was now a Bar Mitzvah. All that was left was the
Torah, was interesting to learn about because she enjoyed what
party, and how could I forget, the thank you notes.
she was teaching. Mrs. Kaslow also helped me a great deal with
At this time I am thirteen years old. I am a post Bar
the prayer that I read in front of the ark on my Bar Mitzvah.
Mitzvah. Yet I think my life as a Jew is not over. I have many
Without her guidance I would not have been able to prepare such
years ahead of me. I still attend services and have finished my
a prayer. Mr. Mitchell, the head of the Hebrew School, was also
second haftorah. I am beginning to prepare for a Saturday Torah
one of my teachers. We studied different prayers and learned
portion and I plan to attend Hebrew High School. I believe that
their meaning. We also learned about the different parts of the
when your Bar Mitzvah is over your life as a Jew does not end.
service. I will never forget when Mr. Mitchell participated in the
Twenty Questions
Based on stories and photos on exhibit on JCC
Eastern and Western Wails toward Health Dept.
Find your answers as you enjoy viewing the exhibits
or Look at the Bottom of This Page!
Nebraska Jewish History Quiz
1. Name a former Omahan who served as U.N. Delegate and
Secretary of Commerce.
2. Name a popular Jewish mayor of Omaha and U.S. Senator
from Nebraska.
3. Name a WWI Veteran, City Commissioner and Councilman
of Omaha.
4. Name a businesswoman elected as University of Nebraska
Regent.
5. Name a businessman elected to Lincoln City Council who
served as Lancaster County Election Commissioner.
6. Who was a small town physician elected to University of
Nebraska Board of Regents?
7. What public place is named after a famous Jewish mayor?
8. Name a Polish immigrant elected to head the City of Omaha
at the turn of the century.
9. Name the first Jewish Chief Justice of Nebraska Supreme
Court.
10. Name three Jewish Social Clubs existing at the turn of the
century.
11. When did the first Orthodox Confirmation take place in
Omaha?
Q. What was the popular name of Shaare Zion Shul?
13. Who was the Omaha physician after whom a Home for the
Aged was named?
14. Where was the first JCC located?
15. Name the first President of the Jewish Federation of Omaha.
16. Name two of Omaha's B'nai Brith chapters.
17. Name some early businesses in South Omaha.
18. Name the office on the Eastern Coast of the U.S. which
dealt with placing and directing new immigrants in the U.S.
19. Name a European port of embarkation for sailing to the U.S.
20. What was the European country from which most immigrants embarked on ships to sail to the U.S.?
The Nebraska Jewish Historical Society has many projects
that need special funding. So.....if you are thinking of
making a special gift in honor of or in memory of a loved
one please think of us. When you make out your will, think
of us. And if you are looking for some tax deductions this
year think of the Nebraska Jewish Historical Society, a nonprofit organization that is doing a very important and
special job.
Answers: 1. Philip Klutzzuck 2. Edward Zorinaky 3. Harry Trustin 4. Margaret Robinson (Norfolk) 5. Bill
Davidson 6. Dr. Ben Greenberg (York) 7. Rosenblatt Stadium 8. Harry Zimman 9. Norman Kjivo,ha 10.
Hebrew Club, B'nai B'rith, Young Men's Hebrew Benevolent Society 11. 1916 12. Ricke, Shul 13. Dr.
Philip Sher 14. 20th & Dodge 15. Sam Ravitz 16. Ccsnhusker, Monaky 17. Tuchrnan Bros., Sam
Meyerson's Grocery and Meat Market, Roeenstock and Co. Leaf Tobacco 18. Industrial Removal Office 19. Brcmcn 20. Germany
Wish You Had Been There!
On Sunday, June 14th Oliver Pollak and I attended the
annual national conference of the American Jewish Historical
Society in Boston. We met with many representatives of local
historical societies from across the country, and we learned a
great deal that we will be passing on to you in the year ahead.
We heard five scholars speak about the volumes they will be
writing on the narrative history of American Jewry from the
colonial period to the present. It will be published in 1992 as
part of the celebration of the Society's 100th anniversary and the
500th anniversary of the discovery of America. We heard a
fascinating lecture on "American Jewry in the Roarin' 20's: The
Not-So-Lost Generation". The preceding evening we attended
the opening reception at the American Jewish Historical Society
headquarters in Waltham, Ma. where we viewed an impressive
exhibit of Jewish ceremonial objects, drawings and lithographs
that had been collected by Leon J. and Julia S. Obermayer from
their trips around the world. You are urged to visit the wonderful research library which houses more than 75,000 volumes, six
million pages of manuscripts, thousands of newspapers and
periodicals and hundreds of paintings and artifacts. And if you
are interested in supporting this unique organization you can
write to the American Jewish Historical Society, 2 Thornton
Road, Waltham, Mass. 02154 or call 617-891-8110.
-------------
Mary Feilman, Executive Director
Todah Rabah...And Thank You So Much!
Our special thanks to Frances Batt who responded so
generously to our request for an electric typewriter for our
office. We are enjoying using it and are grateful for the gift!
Many many thanks Frances for your continued support and
assistance!
-------------
A belated "thank-you" to Sam Rosenstein who was the loanerdonor of the full page ad of the Omaha Jewish grocers which
was used on the back page of our December, 1986 newsletter.
There were a tremendous number of responses and reactions
from many of our readers who saw familiar faces and in many
instances the pictures of relatives on that page. We appreciate
your cooperation, Sam.
The "Corridor of Jewish History" Museum
is open during the same hours the Jewish
Community Center is open. Come over
with your family and friends to see our
newest exhibit on "Jews in Political Life".
It's worth your time!
"Being Jewish is important. Well, sometimes being a
different religion is fun, like on Hanukkah. But growing
up Jewish is fun. That is because I can learn Hebrew
and then I can teach my children Hebrew." Alan
Josephson, age 6, (Growing Up Jewish 1st Place Winner
K-6 Grade)
Know someone who is not a member?:
: Ask your friends and relatives from
: Nebraska to join NJHS! Every old:
: member sign up a New member! Help
: us grow!
.............................
P-L-E-A-S-E
Don't Throw Away Your Past!
The Nebraska Jewish Historical Society would
like to have letters, photos, scrapbooks, diaries, keepsakes, newspaper clippings, documents, records,
memorabilia, organization material, programs, diplomas,
deeds, minutes, chronicles, scrolls, journals, bulletins,
plaques, playbills, tributes, posters, passports, immigration and immunization papers, boarding passes and
marriage contracts. Please help us expand our collection
of the history of the past, not only for today, but for all
the tomorrows.
Check through your own memorabilia. Ask
other family members and friends to look in their
basement, attic or closets. Each contribution from you to
the Nebraska Jewish Historical Society helps us fill in a
small gap and helps us expand our information bank for
the future. JUST REMEMBER, DONT THROW
AWAY THE ABOVE TYPES....GIVE THEM TO OUR
ARCHIVES!
David Forbes in the News
David Forbes, 41 year old former Nebraskan and son of Herbert
and Ruth Forbes, has been named president of MGM/UA Distributing
Co. in Hollywood, Cal. His career ladder started at the since-razed
Cooper Theater in downtown Omaha, where he was the part-time
assistant manager. He later managed the State Theater, and met numerous visitors from Hollywood. He also worked for columbia Pictures.
According to a recent interview with Robert McMorris in the Omaha
World Herald, "Forbes is looking forward to promoting the MGM and
United Artists releases which include the new Mel Brooks movie
"Spaceballs" and the new James Bond picture "The Living Daylights".
He attended Dundee grade school, Central High and the University of
Omaha. For the past five years he has been the head of the David
Forbes Company, a marketing consultancy firm.
Mazeltov to former NJHS board member Joseph Soshnik!
Joseph Soshnik, M.S. Ph.D. was awarded the Alumni Achievement Citation by Creighton University at commencement exercises
recently for having brought distinction to the University. Soshnik began
his career as an educator at Creighton University, later was chosen to
serve as president of the University of Nebraska, and is now serving as
executive vice president of Kirkpatrick, Pettis, Smith, Polian, Inc.
investment bankers company. He is currently vice-president of the
Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and vice-president
of the Omaha Industrial Foundation.
Attention Jewish Doctors and Lawyers!
Sometime during the next six months we will begin to gather
pictures and stories of Jewish doctors and lawyers in Nebraska for the
past 100 years. Do you have a story to tell? Do you know someone who
has a story to tell about his or her experiences as a doctor or lawyer? Do
you have pictures, scrapbooks, memorabilia, photo albums, printed
matter--anything that will help us in preparing an exhibit on the lives
and stories of Jewish doctors and lawyers in Nebraska. We are anxious
to hear from you.
Our Giant Address Book Grows
Bigger Each Year
Drop in and Visit Our
NJHS Office
The office of the Nebraska Jewish
Historical Society is located in the
JCC. We welcome your visits and
your phone calls. 322-8200 Ext.
277
Very recently a mailing went forth from our office to about 500
former Nebraskans whose addresses we were able to locate from friends,
relatives and particularly from Class Reunion books. In the mailing we
told the recipient about the Nebraska Jewish Historical Society, the work
we are doing and our desire to have them become a part of our efforts.
If you have the names and addresses of former Nebraska Jews and are
willing to share them with us we will be most appreciative. Just jot them
down, send them to our office and we will add them to our fast growing
Giant Address Book.
Do you know someone over 80?
Do you know someone over 80 who has
a record of Jewish Community Service?
Nominate that Jewish man or woman for our "Hail
of Recognition" Awards to be announced at our 5th Anniversary Celebration October 12th.
Send in a letter about that person and his or her activities during their present and/or earlier years to our NJHS
office at your earliest convenience. Include two pictures of
that person, one in his/her youth and one at the present time
(or a recent photo). We will prepare an exhibit of those
pictures in our "Corridor of Jewish History" Museum in
conjunction with our 5th Anniversary. Let us hear from you.
"Computers and Growing Up Jewish"
by Stuart Oberman, age 16 (Essay Contest Entry)
I became interested in home computers when they were
in their infancy late in the 70's and I was a youngster of nine or
ten. This hobby happily allowed me to grow Jewishly at the
same time.
Early on, I discovered the joy of creating various
programs using the computer. One of the more challenging was
the Hebrew alphabet I developed for the computer, one character
at a time. This was among the first Hebrew character sets
generated for a microcomputer in the country, and though
rudimentary, was a focal point of interest when my father,
Robert Oberman, showed it to Jewish educators at the Conference on Alternatives in Jewish Education (CAJE) in Santa
Barbara in 1980. Inspired by the interest by Jewish educators in
the new computer technology, my parents and I explored the
possibilities of using computers for Jewish education. Together
we spent many hours around our home computer in this endeavor. We created interactive computer lessons with Jewish
content. Examples included Chumash, Jewish holidays, Hebrew
language, and the 10 Commandments.
When we were invited to present the new computer
technology for Jewish education at the 1981 CAJE conference at
Oberlin Coller, it was truly a "family affair." My parents, sister,
and I traveled to Ohio for a most memorable Jewish experience,
for the CAJE attendees are all intensely interested in Jewish
education, professionals and lay persons alike. There were many
different presentations of innovative educational techniques for
Jewish education. Along with my parents, I demonstrated the
use of computers in Jewish education.
Ongoing Jewish education is an important part of being
Jewish and the computer and I have been great friends in this
endeavor. Our family has developed other computer and
interactive television software for Jewish education and we have
made presentations at subsequent CAJE conferences and the
Board of Directors Meeting of the Omaha Jewish Federation. It
was a unique experience for me to be part of this exciting aspect
of Jewish life.
Slate of Officers and Board for
1987-88 Term of Office
Election will be held on July 22, 1987 at open-board meeting at
JCC - 7:30 p.m.
President................................................Saranne Gitnick
Vice-President.......................................Sharon Cipperly
Vice-President .......................................... Jerry Freeman
Vice-President ............................................ Esther Canar
Treasurer.................................................. Lois Friedman
Rec. Secretary ..........................................Phyllis Bittner
Dues Secretaries....................................... Audrey Cohen
Rita Novak
Museum Curator....................................... Ducky Milder
Executive Director ....................................Mary Fellman
Co-Founder ................................................ Oliver Pollak
Board Members
(Continuing)
Molline Cassman
Maurice Greenspan
Dorothy Kaplan
Kevee Kirshenbaum
Neal Malashock
Harold Novak
Phyllis Roffman
Miriam Simon
Rocky Stern
Barbara Taxman
Nominees for Board
Louise Abrahamson
Caryl Greenberg
Iry Yaffee
Outgoing Board Members
Annie Allen
Bob Goodman
Bert Lewis
Max Neiden
Gwen Prod
Cynthia Schneider
Sivvy Roffman
Bonnie Horwich
Barton Greenberg
Sheldon Kushner
In Tribute to Dr. J. Lewis Yager
We mourn the recent loss of our charter board
member Dr. J. Lewis Yager. Lew was involved with the
history of our Jewish community long before we had a
historical society in Nebraska. For many years he served as
the official translator of the minutes of old synagogues,
letters and other Yiddish and Hebrew documents to English.
He had a unique sense for and an understanding of the
history of our Jewish settlers in the Midwest. Because of his
ongoing concern and constant care that all should be
recorded properly he added significantly to our fine beginning. His ability, his sense of humor and his concern for all
we did will be missed very much by the Nebraska Jewish
Historical Society. As a vibrant member of the Jewish community he will be missed by friends and co-workers alike-and he will long be remembered.
From the NJHS
MAILBAG..........
"This will just be a short note but I promised a friend in
Jerusalem that I would try to secure information for her concerning a relative of hers that moved to Omaha in the 50's and with
whom she has lost contact. His name is Barney Drevich
formerly of New Jersey and apparently he was in the clothing
business. His cousin, Bessie Schwartz of Har Nof, said her
cousin was the son of either Noah or Ephraim Drevich, her
fathers' brothers and that her father had at one time lived in
Matowa, Poland, before coming to the states. Barney Drevich
apparently had been very kind to her and her mother and
unfortunately had lost contact with him when he moved west.
The last time she had seen him was 30 years ago (approximately). Any information you could relay to me would be
greatly appreciated and you would be doing a great mitzvah as
well. Hope to be able to see my Omaha friends when we are in
...............................
"I'm involved in a geneological project for the Southern
Arizona Historical Society and desire whatever assistance you
can give me on the Jewish cemeteries (active and inactive) in
greater Omaha and Council Bluffs. I need the name, address and
who might have jurisdiction over them. Your help will be appreciated." Alfred E. Lipsey, 4181 E. Pontato Canyon Drive,
Tucson, Arizona, 85718.
"Vol. IV, No.2 has to be regarded as an absolute smash
as far as I am concerned. Frontpage: Picture of Ramona
Slosburg: she was my (and I think I was her) first "date".
Splendidly memorable. Page 7: Article regarding the Horwich
family. My mother, Agnes Gilinsky Simon, was a part of this
family. Same article mentions Mayme Horwich Krasne as office
manager for the Central Market. This market was operated by J.
Harry Kulakofsky, father of my wife Ethelyn. Page 8: News
article dated 4122/24 regarding Mrs. Jacob Klein. In the next to
last paragraph it is reported that one of her daughters was Mrs.
A.M. Lesser of San Francisco. Mrs. A.M. Lesser was an aunt of
my deceased wife, Phyllis Lesser Simon. Page 10: World War I
Veterans: Council Bluffs, Iowa. A Gilinsky is listed. This is
sure to be my uncle William Gilinsky (now deceased) who
served with distinction. Backpage: In the advertisements is one
by Abner H. Kaiman an insurance broker. He was the husband
(later divorced) of my aunt Gertrude. THANKS FOR THE
MEMORIES!" Bud Simon (Lawrence S.) 1820 Trestle Glen
Road, Piedmont, California, 94610.
"An interested party has brought to our attention the
existence of your organization. As you may know the Jewish
National Library in Jerusalem maintains on permanent deposit in
its bound holdings for posterity all of the Jewish and Israel
related publications from the entire world. Our materials
relating to Guides for cities, Jewish Genealogical organizations
and Jewish historical societies has grown tremendously in recent
years. We are always glad to learn of a yet undiscovered one.
Can you please send us, by sea mail, your various publications,
specifically the newsletter as well as "Memories of the Jewish
Midwest". R. Mayer, Periodical Department
We enjoyed the December issue of your Newsletter and
particularly the reprint of the newspaper obituary notice of my
husband's maternal grandmother, Mrs. Jacob Klein. Inasmuch as
there are at least five other grandchildren who are especially
anxious to have copies I wonder if it would be possible for you
to send five copies to me. I am enclosing a contribution to cover
the cost." Lylyan R. Merrit, 2175 South Bever!y Glen Blvd.,
Los Angeles, California, 90025
"The first thing we discussed in our phone conversation
today was my contacting the descendants of Jacob Levy of
Suvalk, mentioned in your Summer 1985 Journal. The article is
by Louis E. Lipp. Perhaps he would be a good source for information on the Blanks and/or Longs who descended from the two
daughters of Jacob Levy, 1844-1924. I'm interested in Jacob
Levy both as a Suvalker who "made it" very early in this country
and also because I suspect he should be included in the revised
version of my family (Levitansky) geneology, historically, it's
also of interest that Jews from Russia-Poland were already active
in this country in the 1870's and earlier. For the chapter in The
Suvalki Memorial Book on Suvalkers in America, I would
appreciate your putting a notice in your newsletter that we are
seeking information on families whose origins are either the city
of Suvalk (i) or the gubernia (province) of which Suvalk was the
capital. Although Suvalk is now part of Poland, most of the
original gubemia is now located in Lithuania, i.e. part of Russia.
Towns that people may remember being mentioned by parents or
grandparents are Vilka-vishk, Meriampol, Kalvaria, Simn,
Lozlei, Pilvishok, Keidani, Lubove, Neustadt, Verzbelov,
Vystinitz, Krasnapole, etc. Suvalk is located near the border that
was then East Prussia; many families had relatives in East
Prussia and would go to the capital, Koenigsberg (now Stalingrad) for treatment by German doctors. Since even German
doctors could do relatively little in those days for people who
were mortally ill, many Suvalkers were buried in Koenigsberg.
We are interested in any memorabilia of descendants of Suvalkers; photographs, letters, diaries, memoirs, etc. We congratulate
you on your Society, the newsletters, the journals and all the
other fine things your group has done and is continuing to do.
Lana Leavitt Rosenfeld, Suvalki Memorial Book Committee, 176 E. 70th Street, New York, N.Y., 10021, 212-570-0514
...............................
"I am in need of information concerning my grandfather Muni Leib (Max) Rosenblu, who died during 1936 in the
Jewish Old Peoples Home Hospital and was buried at the Salk
Jewish Cemetery. (follow-up) The information you have
rendered is of the utmost importance to me. I will contact the
Temple Israel of Omaha for further information. (follow-up)
You mentioned the Pleasant Hill Cemetery which could possibly
be the successor name of the Salk Jewish Cemetery. I am
planning to come to Omaha in order to research my grandfather's
life story. Ben Rosenblum, 1350 Atlantic Shores Blvd.,
Hallandale, Florida, 33009
Dear Landsmen,
Enjoy reading and greatly appreciate your mailing this
society your Newsletter. Keep them coming, please.
Noted in your Newsletter about "Ungers". My family is
from Galicia, Zablotow and Kolomea to be exact. If my interest
can be directed to them it would be appreciated. I must say that
I am an Ungar/Unger on both sides as my mother was an Unger.
Someday I'll found out my relationship other than mother to me.
She was US born in 1891 when her parents came in 1890 and
Dad arrived in 1905 from Zablotow. My paternal grandmother
was a Feder, maternal grandmother Schneider from Olescyze
Galicia. Shalom. Herbert C. Unger, Jewish Geneology
Society of South Florida.
Jewish Press:
The child in the picture in your recent Jewish Press
flyer is our son Craig Lewis. It must have been somewhere
between 1968 & 1970, he was 5-7 years old. He is now 25 and
living in Phoenix, AZ working for Mountain Bell and going to
school! His brothers are Steven and Robert Lewis.
Would also like to take this opportunity to give you our
new address; Mr. & Mrs. Harry L. Lewis (Barbara), 2529 C
Wagoner Rd., Phoenix, AZ, 85032.
Please say that we send our regards to all our friends
and think about them and Omaha often. We were members of
Beth Israel Synagogue and definitely do miss it. Thank You,
Barbara & Harry Lewis.
"Growing up Jewish is good because you can learn Hebrew. It's
Good! I like going to a Jewish school". Adam Rich, (Growing
Up Jewish essay contest entry) age 6.
Introducing Our NJHS
Life Members
Mr. & Mrs. Bernie White
Mr. & Mrs. Paul Alperson
Mr. Harry Freed
Sophie Freeman
Herbert Goldsten
Mr. & Mrs. Joe Kirshenbaum
Mr. & Mrs. Lou Lipp
National Council of Jewish
Women, Omaha Section
Elaine Richards
Mr. & Mrs. Henry Riekes
Mr. & Mrs. Charles Schneider
Mickey Sturm
Mr. & Mrs. Norman Batt
Mrs. Moms C. Feilman
Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Freed
Mr. & Mrs. Art Goldstein
Mr. & Mrs. Gary Gross
Mr. & Mrs. Phil Klutznick
Mr. & Mrs. Hubert Monsky
Mr. & Mrs. Bernard Raskin
Mort Richards
Jeanna Lipsey Rosenblum
Mr. & Mrs. Irvin Sherman
Mr. & Mrs. Ben Wiesman
Patrons
Murray Newman
Jeanette Levinson
Gail R. Wishnow
Steve & Margo Reikes
Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence Simon
Pennie Davis
Mr. & Mrs. Robert Newman
Mr. & Mrs. Kevee Kirshenbaum
Mr. & Mrs. Howard Ruback
Mr. & Mrs. Fred Simon
Mr. & Mrs. Al Feldman
Mr. & Mrs. Ted Seldin
Mr. & Mrs. Stan Silverman
Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Kirshenbaum
Harold Cooperman
Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Kully
Frances & Louis Blumkin
Mr. & Mrs. Leonard Goldstein
Stan Lipsey
Mr. & Mrs. Don Greenberg
Judge Jerry & Sarrane Gitnick
Gunter Kahn
Mr. & Mrs. Willis Epstein
Mr. & Mrs. Paul Grossman
Dr. & Mrs. Paul Saltzman
Mr. & Mrs. Millard Seldin
Mr. & Mrs. Harlan Noddle
New Members Welcomed Since December 1, 1986
Mr. & Mrs. Peter Mayer
Rabbi Morris Allen
Mr. & Mrs. Maurice Greenspan
Julie Martin
Don Goldstein
Suzanne & Thomas Friedman
Mr. & Mrs. Marvin Freedman
Estelle Turkel
Gertrude Zevitz
Alan Hackel
Forrest Kruuer
Sheldon & Lorne Bernstein
Connie Adler
Mr. & Mrs. Robert Epstein
Elaine Shapiro
Linda Cohen
Adelle Chasanov Wolf
Larry Novak
Ezra Rosoff
Jacob Mirviss
Mr. & Mrs. Franklin Kaiman
Esta Horwitz Appet
Mr. & Mrs. Marvin Dienstrfrey
Richard Friedman
Herbert Z. Kaplan
Hannah Baum Omah
Rabbi Daniel Allen
Mickey & Mort Greenberg
Sally Karmelenski
Mendel Gottesman
Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Dann
Kathy Malashock
Julie Frank/Howard Kaplan
Mr. & Mrs. Stan Widman
Davida Alperin
Elaine & Bob Krasne
Leonard G. Miller
Gertrude Mozer
Aaron B. Levine
Gerhardt & Sylvia Salinger
Bernice & Norman Harris
Li. Col. Howard Zyskind
Lois & Jerry Bernstein
Amy Novak
Temple Israel
Mr. & Mrs. David Smalheiser
Celia Grossman
Ralph R. Colton
Mr. & Mrs. Edward Feilman
Sondra Sherman Jeroslow
Lloyd Maller
Sarah Jane Ross!
T. Weinberger
(Life memberships are available at $500. Patrons are $100 per
membership annually.)
In honor of the 40th Wedding Anniversary of Lois and
Lloyd Friedman, a plaque was presented to the NJHS on
which the names of all Life Members will be listed. The
plaque will hang in the "Corridor of Jewish History"
Museum and will be presented at the July 22 meeting.
Last, Last Call For Names of World War I Vets .....Send Additional Names Now to NJHS Office
OMAHA
A.
L. Abraham
So! Abrams
Al J. Abramson
Arthur Ackerman
Louis Albert
Edward Alperson
Samuel Alperson
Ben Altman
Walter M. Ash
Mortimer Asher
B.
Max Baum
Max Belgrade
Harry I. Belmont
Charles Berger
Harry Bernstein
Joseph Bernstein
Eugene Blazer
Dave Block
Max Block
Sam Block
Herman Blumenthal
Joseph Bonoff
Morris Bonson
Jack Bramson
Samuel Brown
Leslie Burkenroad
C.
Max Chasen
Abe Cohen
Archie Cohen
David R. Cohen
George Cohen
Herman Cohen
Mayer Cohen
Samuel Cohen
Arthur Cohn
Mike Cohen
Jacob Crounse
D.
Morton Degen
William Demoratsky
Harry Dvosin
E.
Harry Eisenstatt
William Engel
Dave Epstein
Sol Epstein
William Epstein
Dr. Jacob Erman
F.
John D. Faier
Benjamin Fanger
John Arthur Farber
David Philip Feder
Joseph Feller
Stanley Feller
Raye Feliman
Maurice Frank
Harry A. Frankel
Joseoph Freed
S. Freedman
Max Fried
Arthur V. Friedman
H.B. Frosh
G.
Victor M. Ganz
Han Gerber
Harry Gerstein
Himi Gerstein
Hyman Gilinsky
Jack Gitlin
Edward Gluck
Harry Goetz
George Goldberg
Morris Goldberg
Herman Goldsmith
Michael Goldsmith
Herbert Goldsten
Phil Goldstone
Morris Goldware
Irvin Goodman
Solomon Graetz
Lawrence Green
Abraham Greenberg
David Greenberg
J.J. Greenberg
Abraham Greenspan
Sam Greenstone
William Grodinsky
Abe Gross
Fred Gross
Nathan Grossman
Philip Grossman
H.
Abraham Handleman
Ed Harris
Herbert E. Harris
Ruben Harris
Edward M. Hart
David Judson Haykin
Peter Haykin
H.S. Herschman
Chester Heyn
Frederick L Heyn
Morton Hiller
Ben Hirschfield
Morris Hornstein
Herman Horwich
Cecil Izenstatt
J.
Archie Jacobs
Herman Jacobsen
Isidor Jacobsen
S. Jacobsen
Marcus Joffee
K.
Edwin Kahn
Samuel M. Kaplan
Jake Kaplan
R.L. Katleman
Frank Katz
Meyer Katzman
Abe M. Kazlowsky
Edwin Klrshbraun
A.J. Kohlberg
Moses Kohn
Herman Kraft
Nathan Kramer
Moses Krasne
Carl B. Kraus
Archie Krupinsky
Charles B. Krupinsky
Joseph KukJin
L.
Jake Lagman
Sol Lagman
Alex Lashinsky
Harry Lehman
Philip Lehman
Aaron Levine
Dr. Victor Levine
Abraham Levey
Morris Levy
Carl A. Lewis
Meyer Linda
Morris Linsman
Jack Lipsey
Milton Livingston
Joe Lorkis
Ben Luttbeg
Harry Luttbeg
Henry Luttbeg
Jack Luttbeg
Phil Luttbeg
M.
Jay Mayer Malashock
Israel Marcus
Harry Marer
Robert Marer
Herman Marowitz
Herbert Marx
Leon H. Marx
Herbert Mayer
Reuben Melchior
Julian Meyer
Arthur Meyerson
William Milder
Ben Miller
Mayer Monsky
Phil Monsky
Max Moskowitz
Milton Moskowitz
Mike Muskin
N.
Albert Newman
Henry Newman
Jule Newman
Nathan Nogg
Harry So! Novitsky
Hymie Novitsky
0.
Fred Orschel
P.
Harry Parker
Alex Plotkin
Polack
Morris Potash
A.W. Prince
R.
Minnie Rabinowitz
Julius Rachman
Joe Radinowski
Samuel Rice
Peter Richards
Arthur Robinson
Ed Robinson
Henry Robinson
Harry Rochman
Roy Roffman
Max Rosen
Joe Rosenbert
Joe Rosenbloom
Max M. Rosenblum
Harry Rosenthal
Howard Rosenthal
Gabriel Rothholz
Rudolph Rothholz
J.L Rothschild
Arthur N. Rubin
Hassel G. Ryesky
Frederick Rypens
S.
Morris Schlaifer
Melvin Schiessinger
Albert Schuhl
D. Segelman
Fred Seger
Twin Brother of Fred
Seger
Aaron Shafer
Morris J. Sherman
Jake Shrago
Chaim (Herman)
Silverman
Morris Silverman
J.L. Simon
Dave Singer
Emil Singer
Morris Singer
Sam Siporin
Morris Slosburg
Harry 0. Slutzky
Arthur Snyder
Henry Solig
Louis Sogolow
Mayer Speisberger
Charles Spiegal
Horace Stein
Ben Stem
Izzie Stiss
John Swartz
T.
Harry Trustin
Harry Turkel
U.
Leo Unger
W.
Max Wasseman
Al. Weinstein
Harry Weinberg
Joseph Weinberg
Bert Weiss
Ben Weitz
Max Weitz
Clarence Wells
Samuel Wiesman
Samuel Wintroub
Edward Wirthsafter
A.L. Wohlner
Paul Wohlner
Uudah L. Wolfson
V.
Davis Yousem
Ephraim (Bill) Yousem
Z.
J. Ziegler
LINCOLN
Saul B. Arenson
I.L. Bogen
Hyman G. Bricker
Lewis E. Cohan
Max Ellinger
Nathan J. Gold
Dr. Harry M. Gradwohl
Samuel A. Greenstone
Nathan J. Grossman
Edward J. Kushner
Adam Labovitz
M.G. Lehman
Max Markovitz
Max Mozer
Charles C. Nefsky
Lew Polsky
Maurice Polsky
Samuel B. Poska
Jacob Rosenberg
Jerome Albert
Rosenberg
John Sanlovich
Louis K. Shostak
Joseph Simon
Samuel Simon
COUNCIL
BLUFFS,
IA
Harry Bromberg
Sam Bubb
Dave Chemiss
Frank Cohen
Harry Cohen
Nate Cohen
Ike Feblovitz
Herman Friedman
Ben Gershun
Gilinsky
Oscar Greenberg
Louis Katelman
Herman Krause
Sam Meyerson
Louis Passer
Nate Richards
Sam Saltzman
Ben Seldin
Sam J. Steinberg
Saul Suvalsky
Ben Telpner
Philip Trochtenberg
Morris Wohlner
Abe Bear
A plaque honoring these
World War I Jewish
Veterans will be presented
to the Jewish Federation of
Omaha for permanent
display in the Jewish
Community Center.
World War I Draft Records
Of special interest in the Atlanta Branch
of the National Archives are records from the World
War! draft system. The Branch currently holds
some 24 million draft registration cards, filled out in
1917 and 1918 throughout the United States by men
born between 1873 and 1900, whether they were
actually drafted or not. Each card provides
information on the registrant's birthdate and
birthplace, citizenship, race, address, occupation/
employer, and name of person to be notified.
To locate a registration card a researcher
must be able to identify the registrant usually by full
name and probably birthdate, and specify his
residence in 1917 and 1918 (for rural areas the
county name is sufficient, for metropolitan residents
a street address is necessary--New York City had
198 draft boards, as an example). Researchers
interested in the World War I draft registration cards
should contact the Atlanta Branch for a supply of
forms on which to request copies of the cards. There
is a $5 fee for copies. National Archives--Atlanta
Branch, 1557 St. Joseph Avenue, East Point, GA
30344.
Acquisitions Dec. 1986-June 1987
Donor:
Grossman Family
Max Katz
Frances Bail
Betty Studna
Stanley Mitchell
Mortimer & Muriel Greenberg
Shirley Grossman Caldwell
Sol Lagman
Jean Duitch
Iry & So! Yaffe
Elaine Richards
Saul Graetz
Mary Feliman
Sharon Conlon
Sadie Kohn
Nate Mantel
Gary Gerelick
Miriam & Ervin Simon
Faye Polsky Unger
Morrie Maline
Items:
Documents from Latvia,
Petition for naturalization
Solomon Osherow, Citizenship papers, Masha Osherow
and Celia Grossman, Correspondence, JNF certificates in
memory of Masha Osherow
and Arlen Cooper Grossman.
Labor Lyceum Gavel 1922
Typewriter for the NJHS office
Hadassah Cookbook, Harry
Cohen's Deed to seat in Chevra
Bnai Israel Synagogue,
Council Bluffs, 1936
United Talmud Torah correspondence and minutes
10.74-6.78, 9.78-7.83
Annual Report Jewish Welfare
Federation and Jewish Community Center 1927
Photographs and memorabilia
-Grossman family.
Golden Book of Bnai Israel
The Comhusker 1938, 1954,
Young Judaea minutes, Bulle
tins, correspondence.
Bnai Brith Picture 1917, Federation Picture.
Copies of family documents,
Hadassah year books 1972-83.
Letter from Temple Israel
Board 1910 granting a cemetery plot, clipping related to
family members.
Hadassah clippings, minutes
1950-66, correspondence.
36 colored photos of Blumkin
residents.
Family photos
Lists of South Omaha
Businesses
Three BB and JCC Bowling
League Trophies
A Plaque in memory of
parents
Family pictures
Personal file-Senator Zorinsky,
Personal file-1978 Beth Din
held in Omaha
"I am growing up Jewish because I go to a Jewish school. I like
to celebrate Hanukkah. I grow up Jewish because I do Jewish
work." Stephanie Goldstein, age 5, (Growing Up Jewish essay
contest entry)
Jacob Mirviss, Kibbutz
Urim, Israel
Ed Belgrade
Judy Brookstein
Rubin & Dorothy Ratner
Rose Roffman
Hy Shner
Sam & Sarah Finkel
Sylvia Ross
Sally Venger
Earl Siegel
Sophie Davidson
Ducky Milder
Josephine Taylor
Morrie Lipp
Dr. Milton Margolin
Rose Roffman
Dr. Daniel Miller
Ezra Rosoff
Phyllis Roffman
Copies of documents related
to Lillian Margolin Mirviss
Photo 1948 AZA #100
Basketball Team Champions
Scrapbook Palestine 1947-48
Blue Kiper for exhibit at St.
Cecelia'a (Father William)
Bnai Brith ritual booklet, 8x10
Degree Tam 1967
Copies: XI Lambda, BB,
Hadassah, AZA
Philanthropies Photo 1959
American Legion memorabilia,
National Tobacco Distributors
national convention memorabilia. 1984 Hall of Fame - Dr.
Samuel Morgan, photo of Sam
Morgan, memorabilia.
Bnai Brith Ritual Accessories
Photo, clippings, correspondence relating to Bill Davidson
Councilman.
Cookbook from Beth El
Sisterhood
Photo of Max Fidman, biographical essays Photo of Lori
Boosberg.
SAM pledge picture, SAM
House
Margolin Family picture,
additions to family tree.
Photos and clippings from
reception in honor of Eddie
Cantor 1958.
Kellom Grade School graduation 1914 photo, photoShriners 1955.
Family documents, correspondence
Photo of Ronoh club, Central
High 1944, Central High Commencement 1950
"I am happy because I speak Hebrew. And because we play
Hebrew games and read Hebrew books." Nelly Volsky, age 6,
(Growing Up Jewish essay contest entry)
"I am growing up Jewish. I like to be Jewish because I like to go
to Jewish school. I like to be Jewish because I like the Jewish
flag. I like being Jewish because I like Hebrew". Morgan
Denny, age 6, (Growing Up Jewish essay contest entry)
It's Never too early to "Tell Your Story"!
If you are a senior citizen you certainly have a story to tell, but the truth is that
EVERYONE has a story to tell. Wherever possible we will be doing oral
histories (taped interviews) but in all instances your handwritten story about your
life or some fascinating part of your life is always of interest to the NJHS. Please
take pen in hand (or typewriter or word processor) and remember on paper!
We're anxious to hear from you and well share your story with our readers in the
next Newsletter. Short or long your story will be most welcome! We will be
grateful--so will your children and grandchildren!
The Story of Fanny Lipp Bordy
(In our effort to collect stories about senior citizen
Nebraskans we are receiving from the Rose Blumkin Home
materials they occasionally exhibit about one of their residents.
The following details are taken from a story written by Miriam
Simon about Fanny Lipp Bordy.)
Fanny Lipp Bordy was born in Poland on June 9, 1898.
When she was about four years of age, she, with her parents,
immigrated to the United States, initially settling in Fremont,
Nebraska. There her mother died and when Fanny was in the
8th grade she and her father moved to North Platte. While in
North Platte her father married a widow with a son, Ralph. This
marriage produced two more children, a son, Morris Lipp and a
daughter, Marjorie Lipp Lincoln, both of whom currently reside
in Omaha.
After Fanny's graduation from high school she came to
Omaha and worked at Schmoller and Mueller Piano Company.
After about two years in this position she received a telegram
from her father telling her to come home to accept a "wonderful"
job with an insurance company at $25.00 a week, an exceptionally good salary in those days.
Back at home in North Platte she became re-acquainted
with Abe Bordy, a young man she had known from her childhood years in Fremont. Abe, together with one of his brothers,
owned a store in a small town near North Platte and on Sundays
the two of them would come to the "city". Thus, Fanny's and
Abe's courtship followed, and in 1920 they were married.
The Bordy's first home was in Silver Creek, Nebraska
where their daughter Shirley Bordy Altsuler was born. At that
time Abe had a general store with one of his brothers. They
eventually parted and in the years following lived in Myrna,
North Platte, Columbus and back to North Platte.
Early in World War II Shirley had married Bernie
Altsuler of Omaha and followed him around the country until he
was sent overseas. At that time she returned to North Platte and
helped her parents in the store and when the war ended the
Are You Planning A Trip?
UP-aTED STATES
Judaica Museum, Temple Beth
Israel
Phoenix, Arizona
Judah L. Magrtes Mem. Museum
Berkeley, California
•
•
: Send Donor Cards Through NJHS :
Donor Cards and Moms C. Fellman Memorial Cards
••• are the way
.
to go when you want to make a contribution in •
honor of, in memory of, or to remember someone special. Call
• Dorothy Kaplan, 330-0747 or Barbara Taxman, 391-4661 to •
send out a card or two or three for you. The minimum on the
• Donor Cards is $5.00 each. The minimum on Fellman Memo- •
rial Cards is $3.00 each. (Ask Dorothy or Barbara about
• purchasing a group of the cards for a "special" price.)
•
Every Nebraska Jewish Historical Society card you
• send out helps us maintain the many projects we are involved •
in to collect, preserve and publish material dealing with the life
• of Jews in Nebraska and Council Bluffs, Iowa.
•
••
•
:
Partial List of Donations made since
January, 1987
Skiroall Museum of Hebrew
Union College
Los Angeles, California
Jewish Ants Community of the Bay
American Jewish Congress
Sari Francisco, California
Hartford Jewish Comm Cit.
West Hartford, Connecticut
Hebrew Union College
Jewish Institute 01 Religion
New York. Nev; York
Metropolitan Museum of Art
New York, New York
Sperius Museum of Judaica
Chicago, Illinois
Beth El Synagogue
Chizuk Amuno Synagogue
Baltimore Maryland
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Boehm Gallery
Phildelphia. Pennsylvania
Judaica Museum
Hebrew Home for the Aged
Bronx, New York
:
• In honor of Mary Fellman, Humanitarian award: Mary
Fellman, birthday: Andrew Epstein, Bar Mitz
vah; Nann Gitnick, graduation; Mr. and Mrs. I.
•
Grossman, anniversary.
In Memory of: Senator Ed Zorinsky, Nate Nogg, Millard
•
Krasne, Mac Blank, Dr. Lou Yager, Oscar
Diamond, Maureen Karp.
:
• Recovery of: Rosalie Saltzman, Jack Marer, Julia
•
Zucker, Seymour Goldston
:
•
:
•
:
• ..•.••••••.•.•...•..•........••.
Bordy's, Shirley (and later Bernie) and their son Gene moved to
North Hollywood. Gene died at 22 after an illness following his
stay with the National Guard in Japan.
In 1950 Shirley and Bernie came to Omaha on a visit
and decided to stay. Following their move, Fanny and Abe spent
their summer in Omaha and on one of those visits Abe suddenly
took ill and died. When the Livingston Plaza apartments were
built she moved in and remained until February 1, 1986 at which
time she became a resident of the Rose Blumkin Home.
(If you have a relative or friend who has a history of life
in Nebraska and is willing to share details with you, please send
us a copy of the story for our files.)
Visit a Jewish Museum
Semitic Museum, Havard Univ
Cambridge, Massachusetts
Jewish Museum
New York, New York
Yeshiva University Museum
New York, New York
.•
•
Nail Museum of Am Jewish
History
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Kneseth Israel Jewish Museum
Philadelphia. Pennsylvania
Museum of Judaica
Beth Yeshurun Synagogue
Houston, Texas
B'nai B'rith l<lut.znick Museum
Washington. 0 C
The Jewish Center for the Arts
Zionist House
Boston, Massachusetts
...Or One Which Has Jewish Exhibits!
&
Lillian Albert Small Jewish
Museum
Washington, 0 C
CANADA
Sriaarey Zedek Synagogue
Winnipeg Canada
National Museum 01 Congress
Montreal, Canada
ISRAEL
Bar-David Institute
Kibbutz Bar'am
Mishkan Le'omanut
Xubbutz Ein Harod
Museum of Ethnology and Folklore
Archives
Haifa
CURACAO
Jewish Cultural Historical Museum
Curacao
Wolfson Museum
Jerusalem
Israel Museum
Jerusalem
Courtyard of the Old Vishus
Jerusalem (Old City)
The Ticho House
Jerusalem
Haaretz Museum
Tel Aviv
Beth Hatefutsoth
Tel Aviv
EUROPE
Amsterdam University
Cith
Library
Amsterdam, Holland
&
ManeKatz House
Panorama Road. Haifa
11
Uncle Morris Fox Celebrating His 100th Birthday
Ed. note: In September, 1984, Moms Fox dictated the following
letter about his life to his nephew Al Fox. We print it now in
recognition of his many contributions to Jewish life in Omaha
and Chicago, his business acumen as co-founder of the "F and
F" cough drop company, and his celebration this month of his
100th birthday.
Dear Al,
I'll try to give you the history of my family. I was born
in Belca Russia, a small village. My father's name was Nathan
Fix. When I came to Chicago I changed it to Fox. I wonder
what your father's name was? He didn't look to me like a Fox!
When I was about five, we moved into a forest. There were only
two other Jewish families. From what I learned from my parents
they were married at around age 14 and my mother's name was
Leah. My mother told me she hadn't seen my father until the
day of the wedding. As usual in those days the arranged
marriage was made by a Shadhan. There were seven children in
the family--Ester, Rivil, Miril, Morris, Soffie, Sarah and Ida.
Ester was married to Eshia Fregger who had a store
selling drugs, magazines, toiletries, also in Ovruch. Rivil was
married to Eddie Block who was my private teacher for Hebrew
and Russian. After my sister married Eddie he opened a Jewish
school in Ovruch about 30 miles from our home where there
were a number of Jewish people. I was in Ovruch for one year,
graduated from public school.
My father wanted me to become a druggist so he sent
me to Mozir high school. In order to be a registered druggist
you had to have four years of high school. My father knew the
principal. So after a year they allowed me to take an exam. I
passed and went to Odessa. Worked in a drug store for 6
months. Had to pay them 10 rubles a month.
My father then became ill and through a friend he found
a job for me in German colony called Taritano. Worked there
for two years, just for board and room. I received a wire that my
father passed away from tuberculosis. I came home. At that
time my mother had a nervous breakdown when she gave birth
to my youngest sister Ida. I still had four sisters.
We sold everything we owned. Was able to raise 1,000
rubels. Just enough to buy tickets to Omaha. Reason we went to
Omaha is Eddie and Rivil Block were there. At that time U.S.
and Japan were at war. Eddie served in the Russian army for
four years and they called him back. Then he escaped from
Russia. Reason he came to Omaha Mrs. Shlafer was a sister to
Fregger. In Omaha Eddie (Eliahu) was a Jewish teacher at the
Jewish Talmud Torah. My sister Rivil had three children,
Morris, Nate and Ruth. Morris Block was a lawyer in St. Louis.
He was killed in an accident. He had two daughters. Nate Block
served in the firstWorld War, married a second time, in a V.A.
hospital, very ill. (Nate Block passed away before this letter was
mailed to Al Fox.)
In Ovruch, Russia there were two other Freggers Jake
and Max. They were also in the same business as Eshia. Jake
fell in love with my sister Sophie. Jake opened a drug store on
16th and Webster, partner with his brother Max. When we came
to Omaha with my sisters I worked for Sommer Brothers, 28th
and Farnam, driving a horse and wagon, delivering groceries.
Jake and Max couldn't agree with each other and Jake
asked me to work for him in the drug store. After working two
years I went to Creighton Pharmacy School. After graduation I
bought half interest in Fregger-Fox Drug Co.
My sister Sarah married a man by the name of Sax who
had a men's store in Norfolk, Nebraska. He went broke, moved
to Rock Island where he opened a chicken store. She had two
children Abe and Lee. Ida married Louis Rich in Rock Island.
At that time he was also in the egg and chicken business. They
had two sons, Marty and Norman who went into the turkey
business.
C
OIN
Editor's Note: In 1928 Morris
Fox mixed up his first batch of
creosote-laden cough drops
and "put them on the market".
After slow start the F& F
business caught on during the
flu epidemic in Minneapolis
and St. Paul. By 1936 the
decision was made to move
the business to Chicago,
largely, according to Fox, to
cut the cost of freight. Today
the business also makes Smith
Bros. cough drops and SenSen plus a number of candy
products. Our thanks to
nephew Al Fox for our
information.
Philip Klutznick's "80"...
Philip Klutznick will celebrate his 80th birthday on July 9th and
that occasion was the subject of an interview in the June-July
issue of the B'nai B'rith International Jewish Monthly. According to the interviewer Marc Silver "On the eve of his 80th
birthday Klutznick still carries a full
schedule of volunteer activities, both
Jewish and secular". One of his recent
.
philanthropic contributions was a $1
million donation to establish the Philip
M. and Ethel Klutznick Chair in
Jewish Civilization at his alma mater,
Creighton Univcrsity in Omaha,
Nebraska. Klutznick, who has made
major contributions to Jewish and
civic life internationally, is a charter
member and benefactor of the Nebraska Jewish Historical
Society.
Shown above is a family reunion of the Meyerson family held on August 5, 1928. We are in need of identification. Please let us hear
from you. Also send pictures please of your family reunions. Those of the past and today. Recently the descendents of Joseph and
Anna Harris held a family reunion in Omaha. The Harriss' , who immigrated to the United States from London in 1911 had 11
children. There are now more than 140 descendents, including four from New Zealand. Fifty attended the reunion including Mrs.
Jake (Zeb) Brookstein of Omaha, the only surviving offspring.
Give the Gift That Goes On All Year!
Looking for a lasting gift for someone special? Give the gift of a membership in the Nebraska Jewish Historical Society. With each
membership you give, we will send copies of our first and second journal "Memories of the Jewish Midwest", this Newsletter and a
card from you. During the coming year the recipient of your gift will receive the third journal and one more Newsletter. Fill out the
blank below and send it to the NJHS with the name of the person or family you are gifting. Enclose your check to the Nebraska
Jewish Historical Society for any of the amounts listed on the blank below.
I
-------------------------
Nebraska Jewish Historical Society
Omaha, Nebraska 68154
333 South 132nd Street
Giftfor Membership
Name of recipient
Benefactor ................................................ $1,000
[I] Life
Member .................................................
Address
City
I
I
I
I
[I]
State
Zip
Business ........................................................ 250
LII Patron
............................................................ 100
Your name___________________________________
_______________________________________
Address -City
State
Zip
E]
[I]
Donor .............................................................. 50
Organization ................................................... 25
Family ............................................................. 15
Individual ........................................................ 10
Student .............................................................. 5
L-----------------------------------------