GAS SAYS New Face Of AZA OUR AZA Is Its Maturity A Fraternal Magazine The Aleph Zadik Aleph now occupies a more mature place in the American Jewish Community than ever before in JANUARY, 1956 the Order's history. This growth of stature has been the result of the new ideas AZA has adopted about itself-about its membership and about its program. Because of the pace of AZA's stitutes, built around a theme of activity on the international level, Judaism content and the develop- the development of a more mature ment of practical leadership skills. program for over 14,000 members has been an unconscious movement Yes, these are steps to Maturity. to the members themselves. But to This year these steps continue to our community this trend toward a be taken. Two new committees, more well-rounded program and a Human Relations and Leadership more community-minded member Training, give leaders scope and has meant that AZA is generally deepen individual values to our Na- highly respected in the cities it serves tional Program. The emphasis in and the people of our communities these committees is the same as expect more from AZA and from its that of the entire program-th de- members. velopment of a stronger chapter A study of the program of any program with better leadership. one of AZA's international commit- The stimulus for these develop- tees, shows that only five years ago ment trends has been the alephs the emphasis of the program was dif- themselves. The AZA program is ferent in many respects. Projects are constantly being critically evaluated. now chosen with more emphasis on Led by the Grand Aleph Godol, the the educational value than on other process of evaluation of AZA this more superficial values. The commit- year has begun to point to further tee programs are more varied, in- improvements and modifications. We cluding educational programs, pro- have earned the mark of a mature jects and emphasis upon the creative organization because we can evalu- abilities of other ate our program and guide it by the committees and results of our own thinking. within the chap- ters themselves. Staff's Role OUR AZA, for example, has And the part we often have failed grown from a col- to realize is the importance of the lection of seven staff role in AZA's development into committee re- an educational program. The BBYO ALEPHS OF BEVERLY HILLS AZA 400 took part in recent AZA Sabbath services at Kadimah Temple in ports to a creat- staff has seen the needs of the Hollywood. Pictured, left to right: Hillel Cohen, who delivered the sermon, Perry Schwartz, Warren Sefton, ive outlet for members, and helped us to obtain Dick Leffert, Bob Fenton, Hal Weinerman, Tom Green, Errol Burke, Sandy Singer and Mel Bansky. Beverly hundreds of con- them. There is a sense of "partner- Hills AZA was one of many AZA chapters throughout the order which participated in services in local syna- tributions. But its FILERMAN ship" between AZA and its staff. gogues during the recent AZA Annual Sabbath. basic function is still to give the This successful working side-by-side chapters ideas with which to enrich with adult specialists is a further their program. step in BBYO Maturity. ChapterCombines International AZA Sabbath New Programming This year, as the programs show 3 Folds For in OUR AZA, we continue to work Every year thousands of members with our program for a mature point Has Order-Wide Participation participate in convention on all ley- of view. els. Five years ago these were a Big Weekend AZA International Religious Chairman Howard Kaslow combination of business convention The evaluation goes on-but it Abe Silverman AZA in Houston, and athletic tournaments. Even dis- of Omaha reports that November 11th, designated as the In- might be carried on by every mem- Texas, combined two big affairs to trict conventions and national con- ber of AZA. Our order is thoroughly make a highly successful weekend. ternational AZA Sabbath, saw wide and varied participation ventions were business-oriented. Now democratic but cannot be kept so un- The highlights of the weekend were by chapters throughout the Order. Many chapters completely we see a different program. Of prim- less we continue to question and the chapter's Sweetheart Dance and conducted the services in local synagogues giving sermons, ary importance to the AZA member change. their football tournament, but is a convention's "take- through good planning, much more offering prayers, and singing in choirs. home" values. In the last year and After you have considered the (see WEEKEND, page 2) A sermon by Mike Rudman of a half especially, the popularity of program of your chapter and of completely athletic tournaments have AZA, sit back and consider your Henry Monsky No. 791 highlighted been dropped until only a dozen or responsibility to the Order as an Aleph. You will find that it is a replaced by Leadership Training In- responsibility of Maturity. Leadership Defined the observance by that Dallas, Texas, less are now held. They have been chapter. A beautiful Sabbath presenta- By AZA Chairman tion was offered by Beverly Hills No. 400 at the Kadimah Temple in A Word About AZA's Hollywood, California, with each By Yale Rosenberg member of the chapter participat- (AZA International Leadership Institute Chairman) ing. Mel Glass, Bob Fenton, Tom New AIT Program Green, Joe Leslie, At the 1955 international AZA convention, the forma- Dick Levine, and Dick Blitz each tion of a new committee for leadership training was an- had part in the For the second year, our Order will be using the new Aleph-In- nounced by GAG Leon Ginsberg. As chairman of the newly- service while Hil- Training program. formed committee, two questions were uppermost in my lel Cohen, Dis- As for the Aleph-In-Training program itself, let us review quite mind. trict Four Religi- ous Chairman briefly a few of the important facets of the program. A Jewish youth from the ages of 14-21 may become a member of AZA by being (1) What is the real purpose of been given special emphasis long and Kohen Godol ago. Therefore, it is essential that introduced by a friend at a regular chapter meeting and by a majority the leadership training committee? of the chapter, this leadership training phase of delivered a ser- vote, become an Aleph-in-Training during this period of time he (2) Who are the members of AZA be carefully studied and im- mon on the Na- attends a School of AZA or AIT class where he is told of the great this committee? proved. That is why we have an KASLOW tional theme "A traditions and history of Aleph Zadik Aleph; its program, its struc- international leadership training For years in AZA, there have been World of Peace." Metropolitan AZA ture; he is taught the AZA songs - all of this within a six-weeks committee. period, if at all possible. (Maximum is eight-weeks.) various kinds of leadership training joined the Beverly Hills chapter. programs on the The membership is highly elastic. Ralph Freedman planned the serv- At the end of the time, the chapter may vote him in, unless different levels. During the fall and early spring, 2/3 of the active membership present feel he is not desirable. BBYO University Chairmen are an ices for the Kansas City AZA Coun- Why, all of a Chapter Morehs should instill enough spirit and appreciation for sudden, have we important part of the committee cil which was followed by an Oneg AZA and its ideals; a written exam for admission is not needed. He chosen to spot- (since the planning of BBYO U's is Shabbat at which the Alephs sang cannot be de-pledged (removed from AIT status) if he fails to pass light this pro- taking place at that time). In the AZA and Jewish songs, befitting the Evaluation test in the AIT kit; that examination is merely to see gram? The an- winter, Regional Godolim and con- the serious occasion. Some fifteen what the prospective aleph has learned of our Order, not to keep him swer to this is vention chairmen are given aid in Alephs from Mother Chapter No. 1 out if he is not capable of passing it. simply that the the planning of leadership workshops building of Jew- to be held at their upcoming con- and Sam Beber No. 100 in the Just a reminder, all chapters may purchase their AIT kits at 30c ish leaders, ventions. After January, District Order's birthplace, Omaha, each at the BBYO National Office at 1129 Vermont Avenue, N.W., along with pro- Godolim and convention chairmen Nebraska, participated in a joint in Washington, D.C. Let's all get behind our new membership pro- viding Jewish ROSENBERG play a more active part in the com- service at Beth Israel Synagogue. gram and launch it on a successful year until EVERY CHAPTER youth with a meaningful program mittee, since decisions must be made in the order is firmly behind its principles and ideas, (Five Fold and Full), is the basic as to what phase of leadership train- Jerry Rosen and Gary Ginick, the purpose behind Aleph Zadik Aleph. ing should be stressed at district Aleph Godols of the two chapters, It is a phase which should have conventions. delivered the sermons. Page 2 January, 1956 - OUR AZA THE ORDER MAKES THE PROGRAM GO OUR AZA Here's First Nationwide Fraternal Magazine Published January, 1956 in Washington, D.C., U.S.A., Report On AIT Program for the members of the ALEPH ZADIK ALEPH of the B'nai B'rith Youth Organization on issues) by not only attending Coordinating Editor Edited By Dan Tretiak Gary Filerman (International AZA Membership Chairman) affairs but by helping and working 1658 N. Sheridan, Minneapolis, Minnesota on the community service projects, CONTRIBUTING EDITORS: Every chapter must be able to get new members in order attending socials and participating Leadership Training Yale Rosenberg to have plenty of "fresh blood" all the year round. Certainly in athletic affairs-reports Aleph Houston, Texas Mazkin Paul Shaman. Henry Sch- Human Relations Dave Cantor no two chapters have the exact same program for attracting merer organized his BEACH AZA Dorchester, Massachusetts young Jewish men toward AZA and then indoctrinating them pledge class into a miniature chap- Athletic Steve Blank as AIT's into good future Alephs. But here are a host of ideas ter, having AIT's hold offices and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania chairmanships, planning and execut- you will be able to use in your program that have been de- ing a complete program to LEARN Religious Howard Kaslow Omaha, Nebraska veloped successfully by other chapters throughout the country. what AZA really is IN ACTION! Why doesn't YOUR chapter use Press Club Bert Bloomston Try them, won't you? a few of these ideas with its next Birmingham, Alabama How To Get Them pledge class? They really help to Community Service Ross Sandler suitable to an active AZA program Let's first go over some of the build a stronger and more interested Coral Gables, Florida after watching and talking with chapter! Cultural very interesting ways that chapters them at a pre-rush social. Henry Ray Wengrow have to bring "eligibles" into the How To Bring Them In Columbia, South Carolina CHESAPEAKE AZA of Baltimore, Order. Membership Dan Tretiak Md. brings the program "right After a pledge period, the AIT Tucson, Arizona A great idea is to start the ball home" by having the Godol and as- is submitted for chapter member- Staff rolling by inviting prospective AIT's Members of the Aleph Zadik Aleph sistant Moreh visit homes of pros- ship and is admitted merely by o to a dinner-dance and then talk up pective AIT's reports that chapter's 1/3 vote (a 2/3 vote is necessary Grand Aleph Godol Leon Ginsberg the AZA program at this type of Aleph Moreh, Lou Raskin. Raskin's for admittance to be denied) It is (Comments and suggestions regarding this publication may affair, suggests HEART OF AMER- chapter also uses a stag affair where very important to make admission a be sent to the Coordinating Editor.) ICA AZA No. 347 of Kansas City, movies of chapter activities are lasting and inspiring event in the Mo. To be a bit more economical, shown- very good idea to show life of a future leader and this can but still accomplish the idea of what the chapter does throughout only be done by having the beauti- showing guests a good time, a chap- the year, right? ful first degree ceremony performed District Four Begins Correspondence ter may have a big dance, as was done by LAS VEGAS AZA No. 911 Summarizing, it's much better for soon after admission. JOLSON AZA of Las Vegas, Nevada and ST. a chapter to give prospective mem- No. 825 and TUCSON AZA No. 457 of Tucson, Arizona both do this at Course In Basic Judaism JOSEPH AZA No. 17 of St. Joseph, bers some type of entertainment- Mo. Chapters may also choose to elaborate or simple, depending on a Friday night service attended by financial condition-and then mix parents and guests. Graduates of the A chance to learn about their religion, its basis, its have a stag where alephs entertain into that a very special dose of true School of AZA conducted by MIL- meaning, and its relationship to the modern world is the back- the guests with plenty of good food AZA fraternalism. LER AZA No. 674, Oakland No. 42 and then liven things up with games and PACIFIC No. 364 in San Fran- ground reason for the basic Judaism correspondence course and AZA-talk. How To Train Them cisco are inducted into the Order now being presented by District Four's Religious Committee. -B'NAI JEHUD- While most chapters have found with a beautiful ceremony led by The first lesson deals with the AH AZA No. the new AIT kit highly satisfactory Marty Weiner and Stu Pollack, Na- Jewish concept of God. In a two- 621 also of (you can purchase the 1955 edition tional AZA Oratory contest winners Louis Needel AZA page lesson to be mailed to all regis- Kansas City and NOW at the National Office, 1129 for the past two years. trants is a brief and simple explan- CITY OF ROSES Vermont Ave., N. W., Washington Well, there are quite a few very Sponsors Interfaith ation of the topic and discussion No 360 of 5, D. C., by sending 30c for each interesting ideas to use in that and reference topics. The aim of Portland, Ore- kit ordered) there are those who gon did this; Religious Program the course, according to chairman Spring membership program and in have felt that a little bit of "local- next fall's big "rush." The only Hillel Cohen is to "serve the Alephs CITY OF ROSES ized" material is necessary. Steve of the District and give them a way to build your chapter is to begin Louis Needel AZA No. 402 of had a few in- Kaplan has done an excellent job planning soon to USE these ideas greater knowledge and basis for formal speeches of this for B'NAI JEHUDAH AZA. Mattapan, Mass. invited a near-by THAT HAVE WORKED! They'll thought on the subject of Judaism." at a Western- TRETIAK Past international Cultural style bar-b-que, while SPOKANE work for you also, with just a small Congregational Church youth group Lessons will be mailed to the par- chairman Don Lisner has or- AZA No. 66 went one step further amount of effort. Try 'em and see to the synagogue in which the chap- ticipants every two weeks, and at ranged a supplement for his chapter ter meets. The rabbi explained the the end of the ten-lesson course the by having Northern Region (Dis- explaining the national structure meaning of the Ark, Torah, Ner entrants will be asked to submit a trict No. 4) S'gan Bob Levinson at more fully in his "AZA Institute" its pledge program to give a talk Tyler, Texas Chapter Tomid, and the customs of Jews short essay on various topics which for AIT's. This just goes to show that in the services. A film strip was the course covered. Those who suc- on the recent International conven- chapters, while using the prepared Singled Out As One shown regarding the Jewish Holi- cessfully complete the course will tion from which he was returning. kit, can go a long way toward mak- days. receive a certificate of graduation. Many chapters in Texas put on a ing the information presented a great Of Most Well-Rounded Following this program, the group weekend program to which prospec- deal more interesting to pledges in broke up into buzz sessions and dis- WEEKEND tive members are invited. Sabbath an area where this change is needed Grand Aleph S'gan Gary Filerman has singled out the program of Tyler cussed religion in an informal atmos- services, social and athletic affairs for added emphasis. phere. The next night, the chapter Chapter Combines Folds highlight the program preceding a Because pledge classes usually BBYO, Tyler, Texas, as one of the and Louis Needel BBG were the (Continued from Page 1) chapter meeting which is followed last from six to eight weeks, many most well-rounded carried on by was included in the affair. It began guests of the Congregational group by a cultural program. This is an- chapters have devised interesting BBYO's co-ed groups. at their church. The minister ex- on Friday evening at Services where other way to really show the AZA ways to acquaint AIT's with actual Headed by President Warren plained a few of the church's doc- Alephs and BBG's from all over program and fraternal spirit to the programs so that they will know Roosth and Veep Jerome Smith, Texas assembled to start the week- trines and customs. Then the group fellows interested in joining. what to experience when they be- Tyler publishes a monthly program saw the movie "One God." end. Then there was a dance honor- For chapters located where mem- come active Alephs. CHESAPEAKE schedule listing coming meetings and ing the new chapter Sweetheart. On bership must be restricted because AZA has Aleph-Pledge sport nites outlining programs. The schedule Louis Needel AZA, BBG, and Saturday informal gab sessions were of lack of adequate supervisory staff, and also the chapter invites all also has a brief "pep talk" by the BBYA got together recently to con- the motif between morning services there is a very handy "screen AIT's to chapter meetings to see duct a combined ADL night. The and Havdalah. The big Sweetheart Execs. chart" that can be used. Devised by how things are run. In CITY OF ADL movie, "The High Wall" was dance was held Saturday night, and In selecting Tyler for recognition, Aleph Moreh Henry Schmerer of ROSES AZA Alephs speak at pledge shown. Following the movie, Mort the football tournament began early GAS Filerman pointed out that other BEACH AZA No. 790, Miami meetings of Moreh Bob Levinson: Grosser, District One BBYA prexy, Sunday morning (Silverman won BBYO chapters should have little Beach, Fla., a chapter may use this pledges may participate in the full gave a short talk on ADL and Broth- it) and then a picnic lunch in the problems finding good co-ed pro- guide to tell which rushee will be chapter program. (except for voting erhood. park ended a wonderful weekend. grams if they follow the Texans' example. Sample Tyler Programs 1. Chapter forensic eliminations (Oratory, Discussion, Story- PROGRAM CALENDAR telling). 2. A chapter minature golf tournament Plan For: 3. Sneak preview (Feature, shorts, cartoons, etc.) January March of Dimes Month 4. Discussion on Judaism, in- February - Heart Fund Month formal mixer, followed by the 12-22 Crusade for Freedom Campaign "Chapter" in Training pro- 12 gram. Race Relations Day 19-26 Brotherhood Week 5. A Simchas Torah service. 26 Purim Missouri Alephs Help Sale Of March Red Cross Month "Flag On Every Home" Drive Easter Seals Drive St. Joseph AZA No. 17, St. 27 April Passover Joseph, Missouri, is aiding in the April Cancer Fund Month "flag on every home" campaign, 16 along with the St. Joseph BBG chap- 8th Independence Day of Israel ter. May 13 CELEBRATING THE ENTRANCE of Mexico City into District 4 is this AZA Founders Day quartet of BBYO' Our correspondent identifies them as-in the usual The chapter sells flags in o door Parents' Day order: Elliott Levson, Judy Felsenthal, Carl Moldowan, "sarape" and to door campaign. Flags sell for 16-17 Shavuot all, and Bruce Cohen, aleph godol of Totems AZA 646, Vancouver, B.C. $3.00 each. June 14 Flag Day OUR AZA - January, 1956 Page 3 AN EDITORIAL AZA Press Club GAG Compares Lesson Of Registration Form (Clip and forward to your district Sopher) AZA With Mission Of UN Chapter: District Sopher: In its short history, the American continent has contributed quite a few really Address: notable philosophers to the world. There was John Dewey, who revolutionized the theories of education, and Alexander Hamilton, who had quite a bit to say about Member of Press Club last year: Yes ( ) No ( ) the practice of democracy and many more. But if I were to choose the most Do you publish a paper? Yes ) No ( ) meaningful philosopher in American history, I doubt if I'd mention one of those distinguished men. I'd probably pick an Oklahoma rope-twirler, who was more of an Name of Paper: entertainer than a scholar. His name was Will Rogers and he said, never met a PUBLICATION OF PAPER NOT NECESSARY FOR man I didn't like.' MEMBERSHIP IN CLUB In thinking about this sentence, I find that it applies to me and, for that matter, almost all of us. Oh, I'm as proud of my enemies as I am of my friends. don't suppose I'd really believe in much if everyone agreed with me. Yet in think- ing back to the many people I've disagreed with and who've disagreed with me, I Press Club Wants Ideas can't remember any who didn't have some likeable qualities, even if those qualities consisted of merely being willing to disagree. We don't meet many people we don't like. We always run across people who -Gives Some Too say things we don't agree with, but when we shake hands with them and meet them face to face, they re usually pretty good people after all. By Bert Bloomston AZA Friends (International Press Club Chairman) There are countless examples in AZA of hot letters being written across the I have been receiving many newspapers since working as country by people who considered themselves mortal enemies. Yet when they came International Press Club Chairman and I am looking forward together at a meeting or a convention they often became good friends, each still believing that he was right, but never letting it stand in the way of friendship. to receiving many more in the months to come. As you know, The best way to generate hatred, and hope that none of the Alephs who read this year the District Publications Chairman or District Sopher this are planning to enter this vile field of activity, is to make sure and I will return to you evaluations of your paper. that the people you're generating hatred for never come into These forms were established to give chapter Sophers an contact with you. They'r too likely to become close friends. idea on ways to improve their papers and to point out several I can't really believe that there are any differences too great things that he had done wrong in the to be settled by a long, friendly talk. That's a simplified version of paper. We would like to know if you pers to publicize their activities, but what the United Nations is trying to do. The study of world history think these evaluation forms are others have let important events go helping you and if we should con- unheralded because they do not get can prove this. Let's look at wars. Most wars are fought over big issue, usually an important one. After the war is over both tinue their use. Please write to your proper publicity. When your chapter District Chairman and me to let us has a good program, inform the sides sit down to decide how to settle the original problem. I won- know how you feel about the forms. press. A phone call to the Program der why the talking couldn't have been done before the fighting, Director of a radio or television sta- a process that would have settle d the issue quite adequately at Many chapters have been using a tion will enable you to publicly en- lot less expense and with a lot trouble. There are a lot more GINSBERG television, radio, and the local pa- couarge a project or to announce a issues tangled up in this, and I don't want to appear so naive as to believe that such forth-coming event. Last year your miracles can happen overnight. present Grand Aleph Godol appeared BBG's Study UN Social Notes on television along with Jules Lich- ter, Past Grand Aleph Mazkir, and This year, the B'nai B'rith Girls are discussing the question of whether or not other leaders attending a Regional the United Nations is the answer to world peace. I don't believe the answer to Convention in Birmingham, Ala- Mountain region in District Four bama. world peace but know it's the world's gr eatest hope for peace. Some people are a has an ingenious way of correspond- bit critical of that organization because hasn't achieved world peace yet. I'm in- ing between the chapters. At one It took very little planning to ar- clined to laugh at such criticisms, because one fact is never taken into account by general meeting in Tucson, a tape range this and it did a wonderful jo these critics. That is, the world has been going on without an organization of that recording of the meeting is made. of pointing out to the people in the type for a lot longer than it's had one. The U.N.'s quite an organization. In its ten Then this recording is sent down to community the work we were doing years of existence it has already done a lot in the field of technical improvement for the Salt Lake City chapter and in our organiza- several countries, which means that it's helping to end the hunger of a lot of hungry played over at their géneral meeting. tion. By calling people. And people who aren't hungry aren't inclined to look for wars. The U.N. gives This tape is passed on from one of the local people from all over the world the opportunity to sit across from each other at a con- chapter to chapter with each chapter daily newspa- taking a turn sending it around. pers and ex- ference table and talk over their common arguments. This factor alone is enough plaining your to justify the U.N.'s existence. One of the outstanding affairs program and The world is becoming smaller all the time. Last week I was in two American held in District Four this year was then writing an states, two American cities, two Canadian provinces, and three Canadian cities-all the Mexican house party held by article for it, within five days. The smaller the world becomes the greater the need for interna- Vancouver Totem #646, commem- you will be well tional understanding, and the greater the possibilities for that understanding. When orating the entrance of Mexico to publici zed. people tell you that an airplane can fly ove your city from a foreign country and drop District Four. It was a house party Newspapers and where little Mexican hats were BLOOMSTON the other meth- a bomb on your house, remind them that same airplane can also bring people to your handed out. ods used in publicity for a community city. are always happy to publicize some- It is difficult to believe that less than a hundred years ago people from San Arizona Alephs thing a youth group is doing and you Antonio were desperately engaged in a war with people from New York. It should be equally difficult to believe that civilized people completed another war less than five Building BBYO Camp will find them most cooperative. Mountain Region is really, an Utilization of the Anglo-Jewish years ago. industrious region. paper in your community is another If the world is to survive, that survival won't be based upon the biggest bombs Members are building a camp means by which you can get full cov- or the most powerful guns. If all the weapons were put to use today I don't think many people would be too interested in owning the world that was left. to house future regional BBYO erage of valuable projects. In order conventions near Prescott, Ari- to explain an Annual Canned Food As members of an international organization, dedicated to the belief that all zona. Alephs from all the Tucson Drive, Chicago Region sent out flyers men can get along with one another, we must follow several basic human laws. We chapters put in all. their spare to the public. Let's all make sure must be able to develop our convictions, and once developed we ought to have the time and effort at the campsite our chapter is given credit for their strength of character to back them up. But we must never be so strong in our own with their sponsoring lodge to work-get them publicity. beliefs that we refuse to listen to the other fellow. help to complete the project. Tar- Poor Humor get date is next summer. Some chapter papers are often marred by the use of bad humor. Sometimes we are not able to find Press Club Can Be Aid To Exchange Of News extremely funny jokes and the Sopher will use off-color jokes be- cause they might be considered A newspaper is primarily published for the benefit of willing to help you with any prob- District #1-Burt Jagofinzer, 11 funny. Our papers are read by other those in your chapter, but others would like to know what lems which arise concerning your Boutwell Street, Pawtuckett, R. 1. people besides the members of your newspapers, so feel free to call on your chapter is doing. chapter and we should always main- them. Burt, Bernie, Larry Colman, District #2 - Colman Kraus, tain the highest degree of humor in Pacific AZA of District 4 has the policy of sending its Ross, Norm, and Perry are all striv- 5759-A MacPherson St., St. Louis, the paper. Often bad impressions of newspapers to its sponsoring B'nai B'rith Lodge, the Dis- ing to make this a successful year in on AZA chapter are gotten by the trict, Region, and National Offices. the way of Press Clubbing, so let Mo. community because of the nature of them hear from you. Look below for Obtain a list of the prominent people Regional Godols and Regional So- District #3-Norm Altman, 1331 the jokes printed in the chapter your District Press Club man. in your city and put them on the phers in your District. Also include Ellridge Street, Philadelphia, Pa. newspaper. Editors should always be on the lookout for jokes that sug- mailing list, so they can receive a your District Godol and Sopher, as District #4-Bernie Munk, 2227 gestive or that may be taken in two well as the Godols and Sophers in copy of your paper. Some people the other Districts. The Interna- do not fully understand our pro- RING THE BELL 4th Ave., Sacramento, California. or more ways by the people reading them. tional Press Club Chairman is always gram and by sending them chapter District #5-Ross Sandler, 4841 happy to receive a paper from a Daffynitions, giving funny mean- papers we will increase their knowl- chapter, so include him in your list Biltmore Drive, Coral Gables, Fla. FOR ings to words, are used by some edge of the Order. of mailings. Let everyone know your District 6-Perry Cohen, 6917 chapters and this form of humor is Your chapter advisor should be Chapter publishes a paper! Gomberg S.Q., Anne Arbor, Mich. enjoyed by all. I recently read this able to help in compiling this list. Helping Hands BELLEFAIRE! -school address. in a chapter publication: College Bred- A four year loaf made out of It would be an excellent idea for you District #7 - Larry Hurwitz, the old man's dough. Let our motto to send copies of your paper to the The District Sophers are always 2420 McCall, Austin, Texas, be: We can be funny, but not dirty. Page 4 January, 1956 - OUR AZA Here's The GAG Memo Chapters Report Community Service Now Beginning To That Created Order-Wide Hit Its Full Stride Around The Order Attention And Discussion (It is not often that every member of AZA has the opportunity to read one of the many administrative memos to AZA leaders from the Grand Aleph Godot. Compiled by Ross Sandler met its Martyrs' Forest goals. Seattle These excerpts from a recent memo, "AZA, An Evaluation," are (International Community Service Chairman) No. 350 produced all its hours by reprinted here because these words more effectively than any in recent helping out the Civil Defense unit On October 9th, the Alephs of the Memphis' Peres chap- years, tell the problems confronted by AZA, ALL AZA. in the city. Other chapters got hours ter (#71), undertook a magazine drive, which is one of the by helping at the District B'nai B'rith The memo provoked unprecedented response from hundreds of leaders convention during the summer. The many that took place in the Cotton States Region, as part of a in all BBYO - it's worth reading.) Alephs from Northern Region are regional magazine drive. Twenty-six boys met at one of the really going all out on the new Alephs home at 7 p.m. and were served refreshments after Bellefaire Home Project, and all Over thirty years ago, a group of idealistic young men gathered in which they got into seven cars and collected magazines. The the chapters are really working hard Omaha, Nebraska to found a fraternal organization for young men of the to make their region the best in Jewish faith. Today, that same fraternal organization is in existence, still community service chairman, Paul Gold, says that they col- everything. embodying the original ideas but far different in scope and practice than the lected about 5,000 magazines when the final tabulation was original Omaha group. Bethlehem, Pa. in! The subject of this memo is AZA, its transition from a local fraternal On September 25th, Bethlehem organization to the international Order that we know today. The car that collected the most AZA held one of its most outstand- Oakland, Calif. magazine was to receive a prize, ing community service projects- The Problem Oakland, Calif., chapters of which added to the already fine the car wash. About thirty-two cars Central Region, District 4, banded spirit displayed were washed for the community by As I see it, the problem that faces us is not one of personalities. together to help the Muscular Dys- the sixteen Alephs who took part in The problem is based on evolution or more simply, growing pains. by the Memphis trophy drive in November. Although Alephs. After the this project. The complete proceeds the three chapters are usually in Our problem follows the history of American Society in the last 30 drive the boys of approximately $40 went towards high competition with one another, years. In the 1920's the United States and Canada were collections of went to the home the Retarded Children's Drive. when a worthy project like this Cities and States and Provinces Each of these areas had its own personality of one of the comes along they really work as one. Dick Haber did a tremendous job and its own way of life. With the coming of radio and television, and other Alephs for a stag in planning this activity. Special means of rapid communication, the North American continent made great party. It was cer- Kansas City, Mo. thanks also go to Lanny Millman changes. After World War 11 and the new prosperity that followed it, the tainly a busy B'nai Jehudah AZA No. 621 has who, though only an Aleph-in-train- North American continent was only a small piece of land. night, and was just completed a drive to collect ing, went around his neighborhood done for a worthy pocket-editions for the Veterans and got sixteen cars to be washed. And with the great gains in technical processes came a great deal cause, as the of unity. As Government Administrators and Grand Aleph Godols saw the SANDLER hospital, in Wadsworth, Kansas. The captains of the four teams, Dick magazines went diminishing size of a continent they thought that the same principles could Haber, Don Lipson, Alan Black, and to one of the local churches who The chapter is also selling re- be applied to the people. "If the touch of a switch in New York could Ira Berman, were assisted in the car were also collecting magazines at the freshments at some of the plays, project a picture to California," they reasoned, 'why can't a letter from wash by Dick Cooperman, Bob Gast, time. All of the magazines went to which are put on at the Jewish Com- Washington project on idea to Alabama?" Here was the fallacy. Men can Earle Goldstein, Allan Goodman, charity, and this project was not munity Center, and the proceeds, not be controlled as machines; thoughts cannot be directed as light waves. Mark Refowich, Bob Klein, Marvin only a good community service proj- are being given to the Bellefaire Lisker, Mike Riskin, Jerry Subkow, ect, but it also served as a very Home. AZA, Its Structure Jack Goldberg, Lanny Millman, and good human relations program. Paul Lehrich. Every organization has some sort of structure. In AZA we call it the Kansas City, Mo. pyramid structure. Because of the necessity for co-ordination and unity of Memphis The AZA Council of Greater Along with the knowledge of the command, each organization has a chart that is drawn from the top to the On October 19th, Peres AZA held Kansas City, is planning for its next "mitzvah" for aiding the Retarded bottom, operating also from the bottom to the top. All of us are familiar a Charity Dance at the Jewish Com- Community Service Project. Each Children Drive, goes the attainment with the drawing of a pyramid. Theoretically, ideas filter from the lowest munity Center, the first of its kind of the five chapters in Kansas City of sixty-four work hours, more than step to the highest, then back to the bottom. Such a structure is a necessity tc be held in Memphis. All of the is pitching in to build a retaining the chapter accumulated all of last for AZA. National Programs, National Contests, would be impossible without proceeds went to the Goodfellows, wall around Menorah Medical Cen- year. The car wash project met with it. And as the use of this structure evolved, it began to be misinterpreted. who in turn give Thanksgiving and ter, after a request by the hospital such response that there were a large Christmas dinners to the under- for this service. The hospital has the number of cars which the boys were People began to interpret the pyramid structure literally, that is, a privileged children of the city. The materials, and will furnish the unable to wash in the one afternoon. supreme National organization with all other levels subservient to it-this bcys sold 800 tickets, at $.50 each. supervision, but it cannot afford to Indications point to a repeat per- wasn't done by arrogant Alephs or people with ideas of superiority. It was The Aleph who sold the most tickets pay the labor. formance in the spring. a natural outgrowth of a structure. Then came the National Programs, got an AZA pin as a prize. The most of them very good, but all lending themselves to a loss of power on "Harvest Hop," as it was called, Seattle, Wash. Sacramento, Calif. other levels. The Press Club was one of the first, making an effort to sign netted $400 for the "Goodfellows," Regional cooperation is what it Sacramento AZA really goes all up all Sophers everywhere, and establishing criteria for Chapter News- who were very happy to receive it. is known as and the region that out for community service projects. papers. Regional and District Chairmen were assigned to coordinate the really has plenty of it is Northern They have turned in a considerable Press Club. Then came standardized membership orientation, another great Burbank, Calif. Region of District No. 4. amount of work hours by painting improvement, but a program that caused Chairmen on other levels to spend and refurbishing their local Jewish a good deal of their time asking people to use AIT Kits. This was followed Israeli AZA held one of its unique Community Service programs Dave Kalen, CS chairman, reports Center. Not only will it make it a by the Richard Klutznick Scholarship Fund. Chairmen necessarily spent a recently. It was a Toys for Tots that all of the chapters turned in more enjoyable place to meet in but good deal of their time "pushing" the National Project. Even now, the trend program in which the members of a vast amount of work hours over the Alephs themselves will get some continues. the chapter went out soliciting toys their quotas and that every chapter satisfaction from doing the job. The Solution and other children's gifts from stores. The Alephs also collected used Arriving at a solution to such a big problem is almost an impossibility. but good toys from their brothers There is no mechanical solution to a situation that evolved over such a and sisters and their neighbors whose This Is The Space For Your long period of time. Were we to destroy all of the programs that evolved children didn't need them anymore. over this period we would be in real trouble. Were we to stop evolving and The Alephs then gave the toys to discontinue the quest for new and rich programs and ideas we would become the Marines who cleaned them stagnant. Organizations and Governments cannot suddenly do a quick up and gave them to needy families Chapter To Find Community reverse or discontinue their forward motion. This invariably leads to nothing around Christmas time. I'm sure this more than chaos. project gave the Alephs of Israeli AZA a warm feeling of personal 1. Let's not hold the belief that National Officers and Chairmen are satisfaction. Service Ideas arrogant dictators who have more faith in their own ideas than in the creative ability of others. I cannot conceive of a delegate body electing Miami, Fla. people with these characteristics, or of people with these characteristics advancing far enough to run for National Offices. The greater Miami Council, in one of the most successful tag days 2. I'd hate to see National Chairmen de-emphasize their stress ever held in District Five, raised of National Programs. Yet this should only be part of their work. If District $380 for Bellefaire Children's Home Chairmen would integrate these National Programs into their work from of Cleveland, Ohio. This money was the beginning, the constant pushing would be unnecessary. collected in early September and was the first donation to the new Na- 3. Are our letters and releases becoming too business-like and high- tional Community Service Project. sounding? Maybe an occasional joke or a line or two about last night's date Henry Schmerer, President of the would add a touch of informality to our correspondence. Council, said that this was a very fitting climax to a very fine summer 4. Have we lost sight whom we're working for? If we have o business, program, and that the Council is the product is people; we want to develop people and cannot reach any of very proud of being the first to con- our goals unless we do that. tribute. 5. Let's have fun-all of us. I'm speaking to the leaders of our Order about the valuable fun in finding responsibility, the satisfaction of Trenton, N. a job that was well-executed, and the incomparable joy in friendships Last April, the Trenton made through AZA. When our AZA duties become work, it's about time AZA chapter 538 held one of its to quit. most successful events of the year, the first annual car wash. The event 6. Let's continue to work toward our original goal of personal was given full cooperation by the development. Far better for a boy to grow into manhood through AZA than forty-six members of the chapter. for the Bellefaire goal to be reached in less than the alloted time. No, we The proceeds of this event $58.75, can't neglect our projects for they are o growing experience in themselves was forwarded to the Jewish Com- for those who participate. We can stress the goal of growth rather than munity Center of Trenton. The the goal of two thousand five hundred dollars. Alephs collected 107 work hours MARKING THE CHAPTER'S 16TH anniversary, these members of Bev- for this event. For the year '54 and erly Hills AZA stand silently during the opening ritual. From left to '55 the Alephs had 578 work hours. right: Hal Weinerman, Bob Fenton, mazkir; Mel Glass, godol; Tom This is one example of what full Green, s'gan; Dick Levin, shotare; Warren Sefton; AI Shapiro; Stan Ring The Bell for Bellefaire cooperation can do. Cline and Joe Leslie, OUR AZA - January, 1956 Page 5 Miscellaneous GAG's Memo Is Answered By Community Solutions, Additional Questions Service Notes The publication of a recent memorandum from Grand Aleph Godol Leon Ginsberg (see page 4 for text) created interest in every community in which a BBYO leader lives. In his memo, Ginsberg was questioning the very nature of AZA's existence, and placed before the AZA #136 (Houston) Top of 70c on each ticket. Money went entire Order the challenge of answering very pressing questions about the various basic ques- drive planned for November 20. Boys to a local Houston charity. Now they tions and problems now faced by the leadership of the Aleph Zadik Aleph. went from house to house. Publicity have a canned goods drive going. through papers and six Houston Each boy is bringing at least three Presented here are a few of the many letters which Leon received in response to the BBYO chapters. Fixed tops and then cans to a meeting over a period of memo. For purposes of space limitations, these are only excerpts. gave theh to needy children at a month. They plan to have a city- Chanukah and Christmas with wide drive and give proceeds to local $16.10 earned from a chapter pa- Welfare Center to distribute to poor. dinal principles, Grand Maxkir considers creative per drive on Oct. 20. On Sept. 25 Illinois Godol cites problems, solu- our fraternity, aspect. they had a clothing drive to collect Henry Monsky (Dallas)- tion. enevolence, goods for the flood infested South summer chapter helped Community brotherly love or Grand Aleph Mazkir Herb Pruzan, Chest. Also in this work they helped Larry Graham, Aleph Godol of the Texas town of Tampico. Worked harmony? Isn't of Seattle, Washington, considered by typing reports, doctor's reports Illinois Region, wrote. "I want from 9-5. Gave truckload of clothes this an evalua- what AZA has given him and a to Salvation Army. (500). Last summer they painted to say that your memo was, in my tion of a prob- little too, of what it takes. furniture at Bradford Memorial Hos- opinion, a letter that will be read and lem of our reread by those Order? Isn't the "Of course, our work must be Abe Silverman (Houston)- pital. truly interested problem of the viewed in the proper perspective and tacted United Fund Headquarters in the Aleph Irv' S David Marcus (San Antonio) loss of a modern and have pledged chapter to help in Aleph. (Irving Canter, Rummage pick-ups for the B'nai outlook in our COHEN drives and all work they can be of It answers National Pro- B'rith Women. Hadassah and the Order an im- service in. questions posed gram Director Council of Jewish Women. Goods portant task for the international ex- go to local Thrift Shop. Also picked by many people of BBYO) right ecutive board to discuss? up books for the Organization and gives a when he tells us Cyrus Adler (Houston)-Services at Old Folks Home of Houston in for Rehabilitation through Training clear picture of This year for once, let's try not to worry all Sept. Six alephs participated. The program. Assisted the Rodef Shalom something we to get back Aleph Zadik Aleph. Let's the time about chapter bought about 200 tickets in Congregation with their carnival by all should real- forget about a couple of national AZA and to be one section of the Alley Theater, a building all the games and ran them ize by now. I projects for a while. The kid in Belle- well rounded in- legitimate theater, and sold them to the entire evening. Also shared the GRAHAM feel that if the faire won't regret his not being dividuals. But officers on the higher levels become thoughtful and the public at $2.60, making a profit profits with the Temple. helped, if 12,000 Alephs get a true too distant from some of us, it is only and meaningful interpretation of sincere dedica- PRUZAN because we have let it happen. That what our Order is. They must find cation, even to just an organization Life Member is why in my region, which is small, out now, as well as the future of a lot of fellows-thi type of dedi- I encourage letter writing from even Alephs that AZA just isn't the pyra- cation has a value within itself, even ALEPH ZADIK ALEPH the newest AIT. By acting as mid- mid, nor the chapter event, nor the if we were to discount the outside dleman, the regional execs can ex- convention, but that it is all that lessons we learn through our dedi- OF THE B'NAI B'RITH YOUTH ORGANIZATION press the feelings of any Aleph on Sam Beber and his group wanted cated work. Sure, the dedication may from on organization such as AZA be outgrown in a few years, and the This Certifies that any level of the Order!" back in Omaha, Nebraska in 1924." Alephs may tire of letter-writing, but PATRIOTISM the lessons of dedication will remain with him. I think I'd rather see a JUDAISM having met the requirements for life membership, Chairman thinks we lose princi- Mexico City Alephs Go dozen Alephs who believe that what CHARITY and having contributed to the Richard Klutznick ples. For "Hi-Hat" Programs they do is helping the Order and who Leadership Training Fund, is designated a Gold are working hard to see AZA remain FILIAL LOVE Hillel Cohn, District Four Religious Life Member. From Mexico City comes news of on Order run by the Alephs, than Chairman, told Ginsberg that: CONDUCT the outstanding Cultural Program see a hundred Alephs accept little Dated at Washington, D. c., this day 195 I have a great deal of pride in be- second to none in the Order. responsibility, have a little fun, and PURITY longing to our Order, and in seeing make a few friendships, but never may 7. for ALBERTO EINSTEIN AZA of that it begin new projects, and retain its think seriously enough about respon- FRATERNITY city has had two excellent programs sibilities in AZA to really call them NATIONAL DIREOTOR original principles. But I think that in past weeks. In one, on classical work. I myself wouldn't hesitate be- the basic principle of AZA has been music, the alephs held a short music fore encouraging an Aleph to work, lost. The principle not of too much recital and then had a discussion and work hard in AZA. THIS IS THE ACTUAL size of the AZA Gold Life membership card which AZA alumni will receive for a $3.00 contribution to the Richard Klutznick business or work, but the principle on famous composers. At another meeting a discussion led by the "I think I found something in my Scholarship Fund. An aleph must have been a member for at least two of AZA. alephs, was held on the lives and work as RAG-not just friends and years or he must have reached his 21st birthday to be eligible for the card. Proceeds from the sale of the cards will help defray the cost of the "How many times is there men- works of such scientists as Hooke, responsibility, not just the lessons of Rutherford, Roentgen, and Newton. AZA International Leadership Training Institute. tioned in a release of the seven car- failures and successes, but maybe the lesson of belief in a cause and of Here's How To BBYO Cooperation at sacrificing in order to achieve Raise $$$ For Human Relations Programs the satisfaction came because I was Texas BB Convention able to work in an organization of Marcus AZA and David Kanter which I was proud and in doing work Klutznick Fund Reported Scoring Big Hit BBG of San Antonio, Texas, got that I felt improved me." right into the spirit of things at the District Seven BB Grand Lodge Con- Comment like the above from It is very important for chapters Compiled by Dave Cantor vention. In addition to acting as Larry, Hillel and Herb continues to to be able to know to what they are (International Human Relations Chairman) pages and a wake-up committee, come in daily. Any comment should they presented the cantata-" be addressed to the editor, OUR contributing money. Mountain Region of District Four held a "Summer ADL" correspond- Tomorrow and Today." AZA. The Gold Life Membership card ence course. Alan Wick, the chairman, sent humorous articles discussing discrimination to the chapters which served as the basis for chapter discus- may be purchased for $3.00 by sions and programs. either Alephs who have been in AZA for at least TWO YEARS or an Halloween Night, 1955, was celebrated in a very unusual Aleph who has reached his 21st birthday and thus left the Order. way, by Paul Schwartz AZA #254 of Columbia, S. C. ac- cording to chapter Aleph Godol Terry Rosen. Instead of the All the proceeds from sale of usual trick-or-treat, the chapter treated the Shandon Methodist these cards go toward reducing the Church of the community to fifty dollars which was collected cost of the International convention by the chapter on twenty-four hours notice. for alephs attending-both registra- tion and travel-wise. Certainly, Wise AZA No. 771 of Phoenix, Arizona, is making sure that the chapters may give money directly citizens of Phoenix don't fall into the black pit of bigotry and intolerance. out of their treasuries to the Klutz- The chapter obtained freedom posters from the American Institute of nick Fund but the ideal way is to Democracy and distributed them liberally throughout the city. These posters have alumni contribute by buying are the type seen in streetcars and buses, and illustrate the equality the life membership cards. The quota of man. is two memberships per chapter per year. Aleph Godol Howie Silverstein reports This effort can be promoted in o that his chapter, ALEXANDER GOODE number of ways- charter accept- once or Anniversary Dinner-Dance #601 of High Point, North Carolina, had may be held and alumni invited. a three game softball tournament with a team representing a local Catholic Church. Another very successful way to The Alephs emerged victorious in the third sell cards is to send a letter to game by a score of 8-5: (editor's note: I alumni directly - explaining the imagine the two teams split the first two program and asking for a contribu- tion, reports Gil Ritt, Godol of CANTOR games) ALLENTOWN AZA in Pennsylvania. The High Point chapter aided local civic clubs in their No matter which of the above fund-raising venture to provide food for poverty-stricken "HOOD PARTY" BRINGS DOWN the law. B'nai Jehudah 621 of Kan- methods your chapter decides to use youth of the local public schools by selling napkins. sas City, Kans., staged a very successful "hood" party held in a room which was decorated in the motif of a prohibition speakeasy. Included in for any others which you "dream Jolson AZA No. 825 of Tucson combined social with Human Relations the program was a "treasure hunt," clues for which were the names of up") now is the time to start send- ing in YOUR contribution to the recently at the home of one of the Alephs. The chapter discussed Human gangsters and pirates. Pictured above, Jerry Coleman, who chaired the Klutznick Fund. Rights, and held a house party immediately afterwards. affair, and Maxine Krightman, "putting on the ritz," a la 1920's. Page 6 * January, 1956 - OUR AZA RELIGION AROUND THE ORDER AZA Religious Programs Grow In Popularity (Compiled by the AZA International Religious Committee) Tefillin Club In Spotlight One of the most original ideas for stimulating interest in Judaism has come out of Dis- trict Seven's convention held at Schreiner Institute near Kerrville, Texas, last summer. About Some Basic Concepts Of Judaism a week before the convention two Alephs, very interested in increasing the amount of reli- gious activities at District conventions, Larry Hurwitz of Austin, Texas, and Manny Smith of This past summer, Dr. Trude Weiss-Rosmarin, editor of Tyler, Texas, sent a postcard to every Aleph in District Seven who would be attending the con- "The Jewish Spectator," one of the outstanding Anglo-Jewish vention urging them to bring their tefillin because a daily minyan would be held each morning. magazines in the country, delivered a series of lectures at the The boys were indeed surprised at the tremendous response. Many Alephs did bring BBYO Joint Leadership Training Institute, Camp B'nai B'rith, on the "Basic Concepts of Judaism." their tefillin and joined with their brother Alephs in conducting the minyans. Among the participants was Past Grand Aleph Godol Elliot Rothman. A summary and outline of those lectures, printed below, was prepared by one of the discussion groups which met each day Because the response was so good, following Dr. Weiss-Rosmarin's lecture. Members of the discussion it has been decided to extend the This year's award went to Dr. tiak, chapter S'gan. Each Friday groups included: Sheila Pearl, Barbaro Saliman, Barbara Gold, Tefillin Club to the two regional Nathan Harry Miller Chapter whose night the boys conduct services at Yale Rosenberg, Saralee Gotkin, Zona Beth Kanter, Sari Ellen conventions in Galveston and Mem- brunch club won the award for the different Aleph's homes with each Luber, Judy Myers, Ann Zeffrin, Bev Rubin, Jerry Weintraub, phis. Harold Lubin, Cotton States discussion of religious matters, home Aleph writing his interpretation of Dan Ellisbergh, Molly Schlafman, Sabra Goldfine, Sara Glasgow, Religious Chairman, will be in religious services on the Sabbath, the prayers thereby enabling them George Lefcoe, Ken Kafman, Steve Kaplan, Dick Lopata, Gloria charge at Memphis, while Mary and many discussions regarding to have a different service each Levinsky, and Si Cohen, adviser. Judaism. Goodman, Texoma Region Chair- week. Nearly 100% of the chapter man, and Smith will be in charge at attends each service. Galveston. A. THE GOD CONCEPT Chapter Members Are Attracted by Minyans 2000 Plus Attend So. These Alephs Talk 1. God is "unknowable" to man. We cannot define God, Calif. Youth Services the infinite, in finite terms. Judaism HURRICANE AZA sponsored a 2. The uniqueness the oneness of God. minyon breakfast at Congregation The highlight of religious pro- An oddity among AZA Chapters Beth David in Miami, Florida. First gramming for the Southern Cali- 3. God exists. God is the Creator. Creation presupposes a is noted by Bill Sinai of Westwood a committee met to outline the serv- creator. "From nothing comes nothing" AZA in Los Angeles. Bill says that fornia area was the Regional High ice. Then they contacted synagogue 4. God is created in the image of man, not man in the his chapter is constantly basing its leaders to arrange for a place to hold Holiday Services which were spon- religious programs on the experi- image of God. Man attributes to God all of those quali- the service and for a speaker Rabbi scored by Southern Region AZA ties which he would like to see in himself. ence of the Alephs. It seems, ac- Yaakov G. Rosenberg. Over seventy Along with BBG and BBYA members cording to Bill, that at least one- BBYO'ers attended the service which in the area, the services were con- B. MAN AND THE MEANING OF LIFE third of the Alephs of the Westwood was headed up by Louis Berman of chapter are graduates of the local 843 and Renee Geyer of Debs BBG ducted by youth for youth, with the 1. The meaning of life is the good life itself. Hebrew High School and many are which also participated BETH- theme of the services being inter- pursuing Jewish studies elsewhere. preted by many Alephs. Delivering 2. Each individual has a basic worth, uniqueness and LEHEM #190 has inaugurated a Knowledge is abundant, and one can the sermon on one day of Rosh potential. series of monthly minyan breakfasts, find proof of this by listening to some announced chairman Bob Gast, of Hashanah was Dick Bogartz, South- 3. Everything is foreseen, but freedom in given "fore- of their discussions on Judaism ern Region Godol, while Al Widiss the Pennsylvania chapter. Following seen' does not mean "predestined" which have great similarity to what one of the lox-and-bagel breakfasts and Al Solomonow were in charge of arrangements. Over 2000 teenagers 4. We deny the purely physical existence of man, but at- one would expect to find at a rab- the Alephs heard on interesting talk binical convention! packed the Belmont Theater for the tribute something more intangible and spiritual. by the rabbi. These breakfasts are services. 5. Man is born with an instinct for good (yetzer tov) and interesting and inspiring. Has your District 4 Chapters chapter tried one yet? an instinct for evil (yetzer ra), but man is born with a Alvin Fox of CHATTANOOGA (Tennes- clean slate and determines his own choice and direction. Attend Selichot Services This Texas Chapter see) #252 reports that every Wed- 6. Each man is responsible for each other the concept To usher in the observance of the nesday night several Alephs help Keeps "On the Ball" of community and 'gam yachad' togetherness. High Holidays, chapters in District make up the minyan for afternoon THEODORE HERZL #902 of 7. The religion of Judaism is not a soul consoling religion, Four attended Selichot services and evening services at the local which are held traditionally on the synagogue. Keep up the good work, Tyler, Texas, is really "on the ball'' in that there is no specific dogma or catechism to grab boys when it comés to religious program- hold of that says that this and this alone is truth. Saturday before Rosh Hashanah at ming. At the forthcoming sectional midnight. Reports from many chop- convention the Alephs will present a C. THE CONCEPT OF CHOSENESS ters showed that this service was of Tucson Alephs Give Own complete Havdallah service preced- great beauty and meaning. Some of ing the dinner-dance. Tyler BBYO 1. The Jewish people were more a choosing people than a the chapters attending were SPO- Interpretations of Prayers also received the honor of being the chosen people. KANE, Washington; CITY OF only chapter selected to plan and 2. Chosen for special tasks and service rather than ROSES, Portland, Oregon; STOCK- Tucson, Arizona's AL JOLSON conduct the religious services for the privileges. TON, California; LEIMERT PARK, chapter has made most unique Texoma Regional Convention this Los Angeles; and BEVERLY HILLS, strides in its program says Bob Tre- year. 3. "Noblesse oblige' the concept that a people chosen California. for such an important task must strive for the very best in life. These Chapters 4. Jews are not a race Judaism does not believe in "once Worship Together a Jew, always a Jew" but does say that people may ac- cept or reject or convert to Judaism. Allan Rosen, Religious Chairman 5. The concept of Choseness is essential to all religions, but of ABE SILVERMAN #852 in Hous- Judaism is distinct in its concept of itself as a choosing ton, Texas, reports that his chapter people. recently visited the Houston Jewish Old Folks' Home to conduct serv- D. JUDAISM AND CHRISTIANITY ices for the residents. Houston's BBG's joined in the occasion by Some differences between bringing refreshments for the Alephs Traditional and Old Folks. Following Sabbath Traditional attendance at one of the local syna- Judaism Christianity gogues #852 held an interesting 1. We may speak and com- Concept of Jesus as the Savior discussion on the meaning of the municate with God High Holidays. and go-between. AN ATTENTIVE audience listens to Dr. Trude Weiss-Rosmarin, Judaic directly. At the Sectional Conference in scholar and writer. The picture was taken at last year's co-ed BBYO Lead- 2. The oneness and unique- The trinity concept-father, Nashville, Tennessee, the Alephs of ership Training Institute. ness of God. son and holy ghost. NASHVILLE #258, under the di- 3. Man is born with an in- Man is born with the blot of rection of Religious Chairman Mor- ATHLETICS stinct for Good and instinct original sin, and can be saved ris Penner, presented Friday nite for Evil, but with a clean and redeemed only through services for the visiting delegates. Anyone For Checkers-Chess! slate, and determines his accepting the unique religious own direction, apparatus of a particular BEVERLY HILLS #400 has in re- Athletic Chairmen throughout the is no barrier. Checker rules do vary; Christian sect. (Criterion var- cent months attended Shabbat serv- Order have been urging chapters to ices at local Reform, Conservative, they should be clarified before begin- ies with each denomination.) begin chess and checker games with ning, but more people play check- 4. When the prophet or and Orthodox synagogues. Following Jesus spoke in the first other chapters through the mail, ers than chess. messiah comes he will each of the services, the Alephs as- person- Already many chapters have made sembled at different houses and dis- speak in the voice of God. this a definite part of their program cussed the various types of services. West Palm Beach AZA 5. Man must always remain and carry on many games with other Jesus is divine, a son of God. Mel Glass, Aleph Godol of the chap- chapters all over the world. They re- Challenges All Comers mortal, All men are ter, helps lead the discussions. mortal, port that there is no better way to Steve Haas, Athlatic Chairman of meet new friends than by this corre- Martin Smith AZA No. 717 has 6. Marriage is good-sound Marriage is a necessary evil, Best Religious Chapter spondence. While in most areas, thrown a challenge to the whole -a desirable part of the but those who marry fall In District chess and checkers are just on chap- Order. He reports that his chapter good life. short of the perfect life. ter level, some Councils, Regions, challenges any other to a basketball 7. The meaning of life is the The reason for life is a prep- Central Region of District 4 and even districts sponsor these con- game. He says that his chapter feels good life itself, aration for the hereafter, and presented its annual award to a tests at their Winter Tournaments that one of the best ways to create chapter for proficiency in religious- the rewards will come only Chess by mail is especially satis- good feelings is through interchap- then. cultural programming at the con- factory, It is played universally, the ter sports and he intends to create 8. Not a soul consoling The use of catechism. ventier held in Davis, California. rules never vary, and even language as much good feeling as possible, religion. OUR AZA - January, 1956 Page 7 IN BALTIMORE Cultural Programs Human Relations Show Imagination Programs Are By Henry Ray Wengrow Going Strong (International Cultural Chairman) The BALTIMORE AZA COUNCIL and Covenant Lodge B'nai B'rith, teamed up at Baltimore's Beth Tefi- Northern Region, District 4 AZA, has been carrying on a lah Synagogue on Sunday, November 6, to participate in an ADL RUMOR very successful Photography Contest. This is the third year of CLINIC. Ernie Lowy of the Lodge the contest and entries are again of the highest quality. The conducted the program which is de- main stress in this contest is on photographs of BBYO activi- signed to show how idle gossip can spread and do harm. (EDITOR'S ties in the region. NOTE: The RUMOR CLINIC is an entertaining and effective means of Southern Region (District 4) This type of programming was so pointing out the harm rumors can chairman Mickey Shapiro has taken successful that 18 were held last do. This program is one of the many advantage of his metropolitan (Los year and more are planned for this which your local ADL office can help Angeles) region to sponsor a region- year. Si Cohen and Flossie Kaslow, you arrange for your chapter.) wide United Nations program. In are Philadelphia regional advisors. conjunction with BBG, speakers were invited from Holland, Korea, EI AITS BEING inducted in St. Paul B'nai B'rith Lodge-AZA Relations Salvador, and Israel. After a short was the theme of the BALTIMORE receive the first degree ritual in a religious service, led by Hillel Cohen mass ceremony, which has become AZA COUNCIL and Covenant Lodge District Religious Chairman, a highly a tradition in the Twin City. The on October 13. On that date, the informative discussion was held. The city's five chapters participate. Alephs were hosted by the lodge, evening was concluded with Israeli and, in return, presented the Second dancing. Degree Ritual and a community serv- ice film. Local BBG's added to the District 3 Region Has Successful BBYO University program by presenting some musical Israeli AZA of North Hollywood, Calif., recently put on a model numbers. Following the program, re- freshments were served. Geneva Conference. The parts of the November 25, 26, and 27 will be Gras Saturday night; a commence- tournament, along with social main participants were acted out by long-remembered dates for many ment ceremony (for all those com- events. various Alephs in the chapter. They members of Western Region of Dis- pleting their leadership training Advisor Al Gordon of DR. STAN- gathered information on the sub- trict 3. That was the date of a high- The co-chairmen of the event were courses) and a graduation party! LEY A. GINSBURGH AZA No. 787 jects and enacted the parts as ac- ly successful and inspiring BBYO Jerome Smith and Sheila Glaser. of Baltimore moderated a chapter curately as possible. Ted Zwicker, University. coffee shop program which centered Aleph Godol of the chapter, con- Planning had begun many months In District 7 leadership training around a discussion on desegregation ceived the idea. before, with the election of Rosella institutes are also held, but are given RING THE in the public schools. Freedman and Les Turk as conven- a different name-sectional confer- AI Jolson AZA of Tucson had a tion chairmen. Shortly thereafter, ences. This year, Tyler sponsored the committees were formed to coordin- BELL FOR MAZER AZA No. 910 of Balti- speaker and films on the narcotics conference for the Fort Worth-Dal- more, Md., took to the basketball problem in that area. The speaker, ate registration, transportation, lead- las Tyler Section. This event was court at the Baltimore YMCA on from the Federal Narcotics Bureau, ership workshops, the religious pro- held on the weekend of November BELLEFAIRE November 17 to play the local spoke on how narcotics were brought gram and the social program. Much 19th and 20th. It was comprised of Negro fraternity, lota Kappa Kappa. over the Mexican border. The films hard work by each of these commit- Friday evening services, leadership Jerry Lichter a past Aleph Godol of showed some causes and the effects tees was required for the all-out seminars, and a sectional basketball Mazer AZA was responsible. of drugs. success of the University. The job of each was to encourage the chap- ters to participate in the BBYO U Stephen S. Wise AZA of Phoenix and to inform the members of the has recently been having a series of chapters of the complete details of films on various subjects at each the University. OUR AZA EVALUATION FORM weekly meeting. Tucson No. 457 has been having a similar program. Registration was closed on Nov- ember 10th (and the deadline was kept!) The main activity at the Huntington Park AZA of LA gives University was the leadership train- a fine example of what originality ing courses in the form of classes. What do you think of Our AZA's Format? can accomplish. At present they are These classes were held in two ses- finishing a film on the past his- sions, one on Sunday morning and tory of the chapter. The film will be the other on Saturday afternoon. called: "THE HUNTINGTON PARK To round out the weekend, these AZA STORY." other activities took place: Friday Not Enough of Something? night services; Saturday afternoon Last year in Philadelphia, AZA vocational guidance seminars; Hav- and BBG conducted on often sug- dallah services and refreshments gested but rarely tried program later Saturday afternoon; a Mardi Too Much of Something? which was made part of the schedule of council events. This program was the "coffee- Help Evaluate This house" or round table discussion. For instance, one such discussion Issue Of "Our AZA" Did you get any new program ideas you can use? was held last year by the joint OUR AZA takes on a "new look" executive committees. They got to- gether and with the aid of the Re- in format and emphasis, this year. gional Directors discussed the AZA This is one of many new forms Oratory topic. The 20 BBYO'ers OUR AZA has taken in attempting Suggestions or Criticism had a wonderful time and carried to be the best possible publication. back to their chapters many useful Help evaluate OUR AZA. Every things. aleph should fill out the evaluation form. We want to know what you liked and what you didn't like about Manny Smith, District No. OUR AZA. 7 Religious Chairman, has Mail to: Grand Aleph S'gan, Gary just announced that District Filerman, 1658 Sheridan North, (Clip out and mail to: GARY FILERMAN, 1658 Sheridan North, Minneapolis, Minn.) No. 7 will sponsor a Creative Minneapolis 11, Minnesota. Writing Contest on Judaism this year which he hopes will stir up new interest in Juda- ism among the Alephs of the Southland. Plans, rules, and prize information will soon be sent to each of the chapters. As of now, plans call for the writing of such things as short stories, prayers, poems, essays, and expository articles. Each of these must be based on the general theme of Juda- ism or on some particular phase of it. The winning stor- ies, prayers, and poems will be used at next year's District Convention in the services held day morning. Friday nite Winners and Satur- will on become automatic delegates JOLSON AZA MARKS ITS ANNIVERSARY WITH a gala banquet. Here's a panoramic view of members of the Tucson, Arizona chapter and their to the Page 8 January, 1956 - OUR AZA LEADERSHIP Chapters Act, As Well As Learn PEP TALK In August, North Star Region BBYO and the development of lead- Youth," "Let's Build BBYO," and (Minnesota) of District 6 held a ership in general. "The Community Looks Toward By Steve Blank leadership training institute known BBYO." To summarize the proceed- (International Athletic Chairman) officially as Leadership Training ings a final seminar was held for Seminars. Work was begun on this During the fall, the Detroit BBYO evaluation. Much of the credit for STANLEY A. GINSBURGH AZA of Baltimore had its three year touch affair in May by co-chairmen John Council sponsored a leadership the success of the institute can be football winning streak broken by EXODUS AZA 6-0. LT. IRWIN Godes and Phyllis Goldenberg. A Training Institute. One of the most attributed to Perry Cohen, Pre-In- NACHMAN AZA in Newport News, Virginia, is preparing for what they very important decision made in the interesting phases of this institute stitute Chairman, Carl Pfeifer, hope will be another terrific basketball season. For the past two years, they early stages was that the seminar was the planning of the workshops President of the Detroit BBYO Coun- won the Jewish Community Center League, and hope topics should be concerned on a to be held. The institute was the cil, Bruce Lyons, President of Michi- to do it again. Charlotte, North Carolina, MIC- BBYO chapter level. It was also de- outcome of a long series of discus- gan Region AZA, and Paul Deutsch- KEY ABERMAN No. 556 defeated WINSTON SALEM cided that AZA's and BBG's would sions, at committee and council berger, Director of Michigan Region. in a touch football game 51-0! AUGUSTA, lead the seminars with advisors sit- meetings, and sometimes at general Georgia Chapter No. 192 is holding athletic programs ting in to give occasional guidance. "bull sessions." following its meetings. After the business they have a volleyball game, a football game, or ping-pong or As in other leadership training The basic idea derived from these bowling tournament. Needless to say, there has never events, committees were chosen to was that the leadership training pro- been as much spirit at chapter meetings. Here's one work out the necessary administra gram would not stress leadership in A free-throw entry form that should be a -PHILADELPHIA COUNCIL'S tive details such as transportation, AZA but leadership in the commun- football League has a 90% chapter participation registration, etc. Religious affairs ity. It was also decided that, if appears in this month's 38 out of 42 chapters! MON VALLEY AZA in and an installation of council offi- possible, first introductory speeches issue of Shofar. Western Pennsylvania has had a successful summer: BLANK cers were held. One of the high- concerning the topics would be given going undefeated in softball and winning four trophies. The star of their sen- lights of this leadership training to the entire group by authorities in sational team was pitcher Sid Mishkin, who in throwing eight straight wins, program, which distinguishes it from the field; then, these would be fol- pitched five two hitters SOUTH HILLS AZA, in the same Region and others, is that it was held at a camp- lowed up by small group discussions Council proved to be the other half of the one-two punch. They went unde- site in an "open-air" atmosphere. on the major address and closely re- feated in track carrying home a half dozen trophies. lated topics. Such an arrangement was con- ducive not only to recreation, in the The following workshops and sem- Free Throw forms of horseshoes, volley ball, soft- inars were held: "Social Psychology and Groups at Work," "Where Have Two Big Tourneys For EVERY ball, ping pong, boating, and swim- ming, but also to extensive study of We Come in BBYO," "The Needs of Contest Rules Aleph Of EVERY Chapter Here are the rules to be followed in the free-throw contest: 1. The chapter is to hold a con- 1955-1956 Bowling District Free Throw test among its members. Tournament Begins Contest Under Way 2. Entrants are to take 30 con- secutive free-throw or foul shots with Once more chapters throughout The Free throw contests have be- the number made recorded. the Order have begun competing for gun throughout the Order once the National Bowling Tournament again. Has your chapter sent in its 3. The top 5 scorers are to be recorded on the form and sent to Trophy. The Tournament started entry? Who is the best free-throw the District Chairman. earlier this year so there should be artist in your chapter? Which chap- no reason why a chapter can not ter can sink the highest number in 4. The chapter Aleph Godol and your District? Remember, being able an advisor must be present at the enter. Make sure your chapter to sink these gift shots is an art that contest and sign the form denoting enters! has won many games for those who that they have witnessed the contest can and lost even more for those and that the scores are correct. Many chapters have bowling par- who can not. Practice up and ties on afternoons or after meetings. while you are, run a contest in your 5. National High School Rules Almost all metropolitan Councils or chapter to see who is the best. Then are to be followed. Regions run regular inter-chapter fill out the form and send it to your 6. All entries must be in to the tournaments. In places, these tour- District Athletic Chairman by March District Athletic Chairman by March noments even go as high as District 31. 31. level. Plan to enter the National Tournament. If you haven't already, 7. Winning chapter entrees will arrange a party and record the best District Athletic BASKETBALL REIGNS SUPREME, now that winter is here. Here, alephs be based on the largest number of scores and averages and send them take advantage of balmy weather to practice their foul-shooting skill in goals made out of the possible 150 to the International Athletic Chair- preparation for the annual free-throw contest. Your chapter registered yet? shots. man as soon as possible. Chairmen Listed Here is a listing of the district athletic chairmen: SPARE STRIKE INTERNATIONAL AZA District 1-Jake Segal, 10 Mace BOWLING TOURNAMENT Place, Lynn, Mass. CLASS: ( ) TENPINS CERTIFIED BY: District 2-Jerry Shaikun, 2330 ( ) DUCKPINS Bowling Alley Manager Brighton Dr., Louisville, Ky. Advisor Do Not Write In This Space: Aleph Godol District 3-Bob Rosen (DAS), Nittany Hall, Box 506, Penna. State CHAPTER: CITY & STATE University, College Park, Penna. ADDRESS: District Howard Bernstein, 2827 East 8th St., Tucson, Ariz. BOWLER'S NAME Game 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Total Average District 5-Dave Geffen, 1435 1 Highland Ave. NE, Atlanta, Ga. 1 2 District 6-Jim Cohen, 2950 N. 50th St., Milwaukee, Wis. 3 District Sam Magids, 3902 1 Roseneath, Houston, Texas. 2 2 3 Pittsburgh GroupUse 1 Unique All-Around 3 2 3 Athlete Selection 1 Aleph S'gan Moe Berk of South Hills AZA in Pittsburgh reports that 4 2 his chapter is beginning a new and 3 different type "Athlete of the Year" program. The winner is selected 1 through a point system. The chap- 5 2 ter sponsors a number of tourna- ments a bowling party after a 3 meeting; ping-pong and badminton at their membership stag; a tennis High Single Score Bowler's Name Team's Highest Total tournament during the summer; MVP's are picked from the chapter High Score for Series of Three Bowler's Name Team's Total for 3 Games basketball and football teams; plus RULES: many other activities. 1) TWO SEPARATE FORMS MAY BE ENTERED 3) GAMES must be played on alleys approved by the and HIGH Series Three reported individually and (a) TENPINS American Bowling Congress. total for teams best (5 men) in each division For winning a contest, an Aleph (b) DUCKPINS 4) EACH scoresheet and report must be certified by tenpins and duckpins. receives 4 points, for coming in sec- Tenpins are recommended Enter each separately. the Bowling Alley Manager and the Chapter Aleph 6) You are allowed as many warm up games as you Play one, the other, or both. GODOL r/and ADVISOR. want however the official games must be set ond-3, third-2, and one for partici- 2) ANY Aleph in good standing may enter-every- 5) THREE games must be played with high SINGLE before starting, pating. In June the points are totaled body should participate. Deadline May 1, 1956 and the winner receives a trophy Mail to: Steve Blank, International Athletic Chairman Medals go to the second and third 8 Thurner Drive, Pittsburgh 36, Penna, place Alephs.