Coach Les Fein

A Weequahic Legend Passes

Within a span of five years in the 1960's, Les Fein's basketball teams won three state Group IV basketball championships and the 1967 squad was the best in the nation

By Phil Yourish, 1964

I thought he was invincible. totally absorbed, always to Ceil, his coming to Newark, And why not? After all, he was wanting to hear more. tales about his kids, his coach- the COACH. When I heard in ing career, and the success he February that he had a heart To a Weequahic guy who grew and his wife had with Weight attack and a stroke, I believed, up in the bleachers of our tiny Watchers. even at age 88, this would be gym watching the magical just another challenge that he moments of basketball unfold It needs to be noted that Les would overcome. on the court before me, his was more than just sports and stories about his teams and his basketball. He was a very As the Executive Director of players were riveting - and he well-rounded individual with a the Weequahic High School provided the emotion with the wide variety of interests who Alumni Association, I got to details. was an avid reader, enjoyed know Les Fein over the recent music, art and theater, and was years in a way that I never As an ardent fan, the highlight very knowledgeable about local knew him when he was my of my high school years was the and world affairs. physical and health education Weequahic basketball team. teacher at Weequahic in the Could there be a finer moment Recently, he sent me an article early 60's. than when Weequahic beat that he wrote and wanted me to Westfield to capture its first critique. In it he stated that for For the past few winters, when I state basketball championship him the most important factor made my annual trek to Florida, in 1962? in coaching was "relationship." I always looked forward to And his life reflected that having lunch with Les at his For a man in his late 80's, Les' credo. country club. Although he memory was sharp and his thought the attraction for me recall of facts was remarkable. He knew his players well was the huge and tasty buffet, it Considering that he left beyond the basketball court. was really only about being coaching and Weequahic in He could recite their exper- with Les Fein. 1967, there wasn't much that he iences and achievements in life couldn't remember. during and after Weequahic. I always enjoyed getting He always had their names, together with him. My time Not only did he speak about the addresses, and telephone with him was very precious. I highlights of his 12 golden numbers nearby, and even after could sit and listen to his stories years at Weequahic and the all these years, he made a con- for hours. He was mesmer- exploits of his exceptionally certed effort to stay in touch by izing. In his soft-spoken and talented teams and players, but telephone, letter, and an occas- expressive manner, he could he shared with me the more ional lunch when they came to relate a story in the most personal side of his life - his visit him in Jersey or Florida. engrossing way. I would be growing up in Brooklyn, his time in the Army, his marriage go to page 3

LES FEIN MEMORIAL TRIBUTE 1:30 PM, Sunday, June 24, 2007 Jewish Community Center, 760 Northfield Avenue, West Orange FUND RAISING 18TH GALA GET-TOGETHER The ALUMNI CALUMET is a publication of the The Sunday Morning Group organized WHS ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Mural Restoration their “18th Gala Get-Together” at the Maplewood Country Club on May 17th. Editor, Layout & Design: Weequahic High School is home to one of More than 300 persons attended. Many were Phil Yourish the most important installations of public art Weequahic athletes from the 40’s and 50’s. in New Jersey: the "Enlightenment of Man," The committee members were: Stubby Proofreading: a New Deal-era mural painted by Michael Barris, Iggy Berger, Ed Berman, Phil Dave Lieberfarb, Vasco Lenson, who was the director of NJ mural Barone, Sid Dorfman, Art Drucks, Zoom Jardin, Hal Braff, activities for the Federal Art Project of the Fleisher, Sam Fromkin, Eddie Fradkin, Burt Geltzeiler, Rich Halpern, Herbie Myrna Jelling Weissman Works Progress Administration. Jacobson, Marty Karzmur, Dan Klein, Our thanks for articles from After 67 years the mural is seriously in need Ted Kurtz, Morty Leiwant, Stan Levy, the Star-Ledger and our WHS of repairs. The estimate to restore the mural Kalf Maltz, Norton Millman, Don Mopsik, alumni. is $45,000. So far, we have raised more than Bill Pollack, Stan Rubin, Mike Scher, Jeff Printing: $8,000. We urge you to begin making Schullman, Sam Solomon, Nat Stokes, Village Press of Orange, NJ donations NOW so that we can quickly raise Dave Suitovosky, Phippy Siegel, Mal the funds that are needed for this restoration. Sumka, Artie Walsh, Len Weiss, Sandy When the work is done, we plan to apply for Wischne, Marty Zwillman, and Micky CONTACT US local and state historic landmark status. Edelston. Help us accomplish our goal. Weequahic High School 1952 CLASS REUNIONS Alumni Association Make out your check payable to WHSAA P.O. Box 494 and mail it to the WHS Alumni Association, On May 20th two Weequahic reunions, Newark, NJ 07101 P.O. Box 494, Newark, NJ 07101 (write representing the classes of January and June Mural Restoration in the memo area) or use 1952, celebrated their 55th anniversaries. (973) 923-3133 your credit card by filling out the form on The January reunion was at the Somerset page 18 and mailing it to us. Marriott Hotel, Somerset, NJ. Norman [email protected] Hinkes and Paula Tischler Goldfein were www.weequahicalumni.org the organizers. The June reunion was at the ALUMNI GATHERINGS Somerset Hills Inn, Basking Ridge, NJ. Lois Berg Jacobs was an organizer. HELP WRITE HUNTERS RUN, FLORIDA THE NEXT ISSUE SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA LUNCH Send us letters, articles, On March 18th, 38 Weequahic graduates stories, memories, poems, and their spouses met for the 3rd Hunters In early February, Fran Katz Sekela, 1954, recipes, photos, cartoons, Run Reunion. Hunters Run is a community put together a reunion lunch at the trivia, obituaries, reunion in Boynton Beach. The gathering took place Belle-Fleur Restaurant in Carlsbad, information, etc. with perfect weather at the home of Alvin California for some Weequahic gals from the Schneider, 1950. Los Angeles to San Diego area. They were: Beverly Bank Feiger, 1955, Rhoda Gold SEND US YOUR For two hours stories were shared about their Canter, Anita Goldstein Blutinger, 1954, WEEQUAHIC / NEWARK days at Weequahic and Sandy Guritzky, and Marlene Sattler Bartel, 1955, Adele MEMORABILIA 1953, challenged aging memories with trivia Gordon, 1954, Ina Marcus Gelfound, We are creating an archive questions from the past. The camaraderie 1961, and Barbara Fishman Stein. of all items relating to was just amazing. Two grads volunteered Weequahic and Newark for their homes for future reunions which will BRAGAW SCHOOL GET-TOGETHER exhibitions at our events. be every year or every two years. Since kindergarten, a small group of friends If you have old photos, With $250 left over from the event, the from Bragaw Avenue School have been newspaper articles, year- books, films, Calumets, Ergo group decided to donate the money to the meeting throughout the years. Recently, magazines, books, schedules, WHS Alumni Association’s Scholarship they celebrated their 50th year since Fund in the name of Hunters Run. The rosters, certificates, letters, graduating from Bragaw. Some of them are: hats, jackets, sweaters, WHS committee members for the affair were Bruce Rosenthal, Lois Blumenfeld athletic equipment and Sanford Guritzky, Ruth Huberman Gilbert, Natalie Rich Eisenberger, Maxine uniforms, or any other Bogen, Sandra Feins Ehrenberg, 1946, Wasserman, Stuart Glucksman, Alan interesting memorabilia, David Holder, 1939, Alvin Schneider, and Schuman, Cliff Botwin, Ronnie Slate, please call us before you Don Stickler, 1951. Janice Lipsker, and Lester Barnett. discard any of these items. and I guarantee a lot of people felt the Les Fein, 88, same way. There was a goodness from WHS Legend Passes WHS Basketball Coach him." from page 1 Mr. Fein met his wife, Cecile, at a Sweet By Laura Johnston, Star-Ledger - 03/10/07 This past September, at our Scholarship 16 party in Brooklyn. Cecile was 15 1/2; Fund Raising Dinner, as he spoke he was a year older. "I told my sister I eloquently about Alvin Attles (whom he was going to marry that guy," Cecile Fein did not coach), he took time to introduce said after 63 years of marriage. "I felt it." his 17 basketball players who were The couple dated all through New York present. Les Fein was always about University, where they earned bachelor's creating relationships. and master's degrees and doctoral equiva- lency in physical education and health. Three of the qualities that I admired in Les were his authenticity, modesty, and After they married, they moved to sense of humor. When you were in his Woodridge, N.Y., until Mr. Fein was presence, you felt like he was genuinely drafted into the Army Air Force during interested in who you were. He made you World War II and stationed at Fort feel comfortable and special. In addition, Jackson, S.C., Cecile Fein said. After the his success in sports and business was war, they moved to Union, where Mr. Ceil and Les Fein always kept in perspective. Although he Fein began teaching physical education at received many honors and awards, he was Weequahic. To all of Newark, Lester Fein was the the most humble person I knew. He had no need to broadcast his accomplish- famed coach who led the Weequahic And then he began coaching. Mr. Fein High basketball team to three state ments. Most of all, Les could make me made sure his team felt like part of the laugh. His humor was subtle, but he championships, seven state sectional titles family. He invited his players over for and a 26-0 season in 1966-67, when brought a smile to my too serious face pre-season lunches, rewarded them with many times. Weequahic was ranked first in the nation. cookies his wife and daughter baked and

stressed that relationships were the key to When we started the alumni association in To his family, the Verona resident was winning in basketball. the perfect tango partner, a voracious 1997, Les was one of our biggest reader, a dapper dresser, a wonderful supporters at a time when many doubted "That's how his life was," said his son, our capacity for future success. He listener. He was a mensch. Kenneth Fein, 58, of Monroe, Conn. "He always made himself available and he had many dear relationships." In 12 served as the honorary chairperson of our "It means he was just a good soul, a good seasons at Weequahic, Mr. Fein was person with a good heart who wanted to Scholarship Committee. My favorite days 210-69, won the City League title eight were the ones when he called to tell me do things the right way and who appre- times, the Essex County title three times ciated others who did," said his daughter, how much he enjoyed the latest Alumni and the state Group 4 championship three Calumet newsletter, what a wonderful job Stephanie Fein of North Caldwell. "It times. He was twice The Star-Ledger was never just winning for the sake of the alumni association was doing, or to Coach of the Year. He was inducted into just chat for a few minutes. In the winning. ... It was always for the pride in the JCC MetroWest Jewish Sports Hall of doing it well." ensuing years, he would be very Fame in 2004. generous, providing funds for the French Mr. Fein - Les to his countless fans - died class trip to Paris and for the Alvin Attles Alvin Attles, who played for the NBA's Scholarship Fund. Friday in Boca Raton Community Philadelphia Warriors, and later the Hospital, in Florida, where he had a Golden State Warriors, met Mr. Fein on The Coach didn't grow up in New Jersey. second home, after suffering a heart the Avon Avenue Playground before he attack and stroke last month. He was 88. He attended school in Brooklyn. He was in eighth grade. It was 1951, said never knew much about Newark until he The father of two and grandfather of Attles, 70, who remembers Mr. Fein's three coached for 12 years at Weequahic, applied for a teaching job. From hearing 1951 Chevy. "As great of a coach as he him talk about his life during that time, I in Newark's South Ward, and kept in was, he was a much better person," Attles touch with his players ever since. A always got the feeling that although said. "There was something about him coming to Newark was fortuitous, it was reserved man, he cheered on the Knicks that reached everyone." and the Giants, played golf and tennis, also his destiny. collected art and ran a Weight Watchers In addition to his wife, Cecile, and franchise with his wife and daughter. Les was an intelligent, kind, generous, children, Stephanie and Kenneth, Mr. caring, courageous and engaging Fein is survived by three grandchildren: "I could talk forever about Lester," said individual. I appreciated his friendship Jennifer Rebecca Fein, Danielle Lauren and I feel privileged to have known him. Stephen Bleier of Morristown, team Fein, and David Hunter Fein. captain during Weequahic's 1961-62 He was truly a Weequahic legend! We season. "I just wanted to be near him, will miss him very much. Coach Fein’s Basketball Players: 1955-1967 pictured above and listed below and in the left and right columns: Top Row L-R: Gerry Greenspan, 1959; Charles Talley, 1966; Al Friedman, 1962; Tom Boose, Jan. 1959; Dennis Mo Layton, 1967; Mike Cohen, 1960; Sandy Salz, Jan. 1957; Dana Lewis, 1967; Art Woliansky, 1960; Chris Pervall, 1962; Barry Gimelstob, Jan. 1961. 2nd Row L-R: Jimmy Williams, Jan. 1956; Gary Solomon, 1958; Larry Layton, 1963; Larry Bembry, 1966. Please let us know if any players are missing from this list.

Fred Anderson relationship.” I believe he was quoting me. Bill Luper Joe Baker III RELATIONSHIP Rich Magliacano Jerry Bardin What I learned about Coach Thomas is that Bill Mainor Michael Baskin he not only listened, but he heard me. I was Ira Marcus Steve Berkowitz A Reason For My impressed. Frank Marshall Ernie Bethea Al Mayo Sandy Bleier Success In Coaching Jim McIntyre Steven Bleier Relationship is somewhat elusive. It can be Cliff Carter explained, defined, discussed in a variety of Richie McLeod Tom Chakeres By Les Fein ways and words. I started coaching Steve Medwin Lucious Childs Harold Morrell basketball, baseball and football in 1942. Arni Moskowitz Leroy Cobb Eventually it was exclusively basketball, and David Coffey (This article was written by Les just Dennis Mosley Bert Coppock prior to his illness in February, 2007) ended in 1967. My last twelve years, Tex Murray Fred Dale 1955-1967 were spent coaching basketball at Charles Myers Joe Daniels Will Penn “IT IS ALL ABOUT RELATIONSHIP,” Weequahic High School in Newark, New Elliot Ponchick Willis Dargon Jersey. They were the most successful, the Julian Decter I said to Isiah Thomas one night before game James Randolph Bobby Denard time at Madison Square Garden. It was the most dramatic and the most satisfying, the Arnie Rudominer Jeff Elson year before he took over from Larry Brown happiest time in my coaching career. Robert Russell Danny Enzer Joel Samitt as Head Coach of the New York Knicks. He Les Schofferman Robert Epstein Relationship, how did it start? Was this a Billy Ertag was in his usual place, standing right beside Claude Scott Barry Feldman my season’s seat, to watch the Knicks play. conscious effort on my part, a deliberate plan Robert Scott Jerry Field It was a bad year for the Knicks and Larry to a philosophy for coaching? No, no, no! I Salome Scott Dave Flecker wasn’t even aware of doing something Howie Sharenow Brown would lose his job as a result. During Al Simkowitz Sam Fromkin a brief conversation with Isiah, I told him beyond the usual teaching, practicing and Bill Fruchter Marvin Soloman Gerry Gimelstob what I believed. I told him what I would motivation. It was just my way. I couldn’t Larry Stewart Harvey Glassman start my lectures with at coaching clinics teach or coach young people any other way. Frank Summerfield Larry Hellring around the country, that “it’s all about Every coach has his or her way. As people Nick Swerdloff Henry Thayer Phil Hickson relationship.” are different, so coaches’ “ways” are Lonnie Hill Richie Thayer Harold Hooper different, and results (winning) are different. Ken Thompson Don Iasillo Of course there is conditioning, pre-season Paul Trachtenberg Garry Jenkins preparation, teaching skills, individual play How could I get my players to believe in Walter Uhrman John Wakefield Larry Jenkins (offense and defense), new techniques, team what I was trying to teach, to believe I was Ken Jones George Watson Walt Karney play (offense and defense), special game coaching them to reach heights they dreamed Alex White Al Kershner situations, team and player strategy, scouting of? I knew they had to trust me, respect me, Barry Wiernik Judd Kessler reports, general game philosophy and more. support me, even like me if I wanted them to Marion Wiley Lucius Williams Larry Koonce But to make it all work, to get the maximum believe me. And as important, they had to Lenny Levine Ray Lefty Wilson Artie Lieb value of each phase of the game and the know that I trusted, respected, supported and David Wolkstein Milton Litt players (team), there was an ingredient liked them. Finally that thread of relation- Dave Wright necessary to bond it together. For me (and ship had to go three ways; coach to player, Danny Wuensch for others), it was and will always be player to coach, and player to player. relationship. So, beyond teaching, motivation, practice, there is relationship. When that relationship can be built, then the opportunity for success becomes more When Isiah Thomas was given the Knicks attainable. It is then that acceptance by the coaching job, it was the caveat that he had to team for the coach’s plans takes hold. With- improve on the Knicks’ record or “he was out that acceptance, the players’ passion, the gone.” The next season when Isiah was team’s fervor is not at its highest level. interviewed, he told the sportswriter that “last year a wise fan told me it’s all about go to page 5 RELATIONSHIP from page 4 saw life and how to live it. (Not to say that I haven’t slipped here and there along The apex of success happens when a kind the way). But, that is how I see life, in sports, family, business and day to day. of “brotherhood” wraps itself around the Surely there have been those times I team. It often encompasses the entire failed the “relationship” test. For the 25 school, students, faculty, the community years I taught and coached, those years I and everything connected to the team. tried to live my relationship philosophy, those years especially. A school varsity team holds a unique position. They play for the love of the Weequahic High School was so special. game. They perform before their peers I attribute much of the success and the and the public, they are on exhibition. accomplishments to an outstanding The school, fellow students, family, student body, the faculty (extraordinary), friends and the world see them, praise Coach Fein being honored at an Alumni the community (caring), and the coming them, condemn them, glorify them and Homecoming with Charles Talley together of talented young men and ignore them. For young people that’s a from the 1966 Group IV State opportunity. lot on their plate. The coach shares in all Championship basketball team of this and more. The coach has the So, how is it done? Relationship. How responsibility to try to have it all happen When the team and the coach have that did I do it? Can it be taught, packaged, and end in the joy of accomplishment. mutual belief in each other (love), the road before them is straight to success and marketed? Will it work at the college level, the pro level? How does relation- The young athlete can take it quite well. fun. It is a heady, glorious, happy, ever ship fit in family, business, politics, The benefit of youth, energy, strength, memorable experience. Just ask the everyday life? These are questions for spirit of competition, desire, deter- players, ask the coaches. another time, another writing. mination, motivation, camaraderie, joie de vivre helps to overcome all adversity. As How I got to this exhilaration I felt as a It’s all about relationship. I believe that. a coach it wasn’t quite so easy, but I coach and how I managed to do what it is Do you believe it? I know it was the confess, I loved it. I did is not easily explained. For now the simplest explanation is, that is the way I foundation for my success and happiness.

MY FATHER I remember two particularly 1948, when I was 14 years old month, in the small towns of wonderful sounds from my - 3 years after our move from America, so far away from his childhood...sounds that would Tillinghast Street to Schley beloved family. By Marcia Kahan make my heart leap each time Street in the Weequahic Rosenthal I heard them. One was my section of Newark). But, We really grew up, my sister Jan. 1952 father’s whistle, which though my father may have and I, without his physical announced, from the vestibule been ‘out of sight,’ he was presence, but somehow he of 42 Tillinghast Street, that he never, ever, ‘out of mind.’ influenced us tremendously was, at long last, home...and and was, always, a great, the other was the sound of his We adored him, from near and positive and loving force in footsteps as he came bounding from afar, and he adored us. our lives. And, he remains so, up the stairs to our apartment. From the time I was seven to this day, even though he left years old, I would write him us, for the last time, in March My father was rarely home daily notes, always including of 1987. during my early growing-up little bits of information about years in Newark. His work, in the family and my friends ... But, oh, when he was those years, took him away for reminding him of whose birth- home...what fun we had! He From Vignettes of a months at a time, to cities such day was coming up or that he took me to the Bronx Zoo (one Newark Childhood as Milwaukee, Green Bay, had forgotten to write to of his favorite places to be) Madison, Chicago, Des someone. and to the Metropolitan Opera, Moines and to other parts of where I saw “Carmen” and Marcia is the former director the Midwest. My two-year-old baby sister “Madame Butterfly.” He of the Skirball Cultural Center Frannie’s scribbles were often took me to hear Edith Piaf (he (Jewish Museum) in Los He was working, at first, for part of each letter, too. My adored the French language Angeles. The 2003 West Coast Rabbi Stephen S. Wise and mother would write him words and we would learn it to- reunion took place there. We then for the Jewish National of encouragement and love to gether) and, occasionally, we have previously published two Fund, to do his part in helping assuage the depression and went to his office in of her stories "The Stoop" and to establish the state of Israel. loneliness he felt as he spent Manhattan. "The Butcher." (It was to become a reality in week after week, month after go to page 6 ALUMNI PROFILES Another nominated episode explored the like girls working at night.” King was issues raised by family members of those offered a job typing the television pages. injured and killed when terrorists drove She did that - and turned in news stories, WHS June 1965 and explosive-laden truck into the parking too. “ I was off the TV page in six SANDRA KING garage of the World Trade Center in 1993. months.” For the next eight years, she The lawsuit, which was recently allowed to covered the city of Newark and eventually In an era of fluff, ‘Due Process’ proceed, hinges on a Port Authority survey started doing work for public television host gives news its due that identified the garage as the complex’s Channel 13, which cemented her position most vulnerable point. in broadcast news.

By Jennifer V. Hughes, Star-Ledger Still, King said it can be frustrating to host “I live by newspapers, but I love working a serious new program in a sea of reality on television,” King said. “I love what you Newark native and TV and entertainment posing as news. are able to accomplish one sound, one Weequahic High There is no commercial vehicle for doing picture.” While King feels that she is School grad, what I do. Literally, it does not exist,” she doing something important for her Sandra King is the said. “Due Process,” is watched by about community, she also gets a lot back in co-host of the New 200,000 people every month - a drop in the return. “I learn something new every Jersey Network bucket compared with commercial hits - day,” she said. program “Due but King said she doesn’t mind. “It may Process” which not be the biggest audience, but...you are King said she has remained in Newark explores legal and reaching those people with something that while many other successful professionals justice issues. Its really matters to their lives, that matters to fled because leaving would make her “part shows have the way they think,” she said. of the problem.” Some of her work has investigated the focused on the city, including a docu- war on drugs, the King was raised in the South Ward of mentary that reflected on the 1967 Newark lawsuit to legalize gay marriage in New Newark and she now calls the Forest Hills riots 20 years later. “I’ve always thought Jersey, gangs, and racial profiling at section of the North Ward home. Her early from the time that I was a pretty small kid airports. roots are less in journalism than in social that part of my life was to make a positive activism. As an eighth-grader, she difference in this troubled place where I King was recently nominated for four organized a walkout to protest racial grew up,” she said. Mid-Atlantic Emmy Awards for her work conditions in her junior high school. She on the show, which airs on Sundays at 9:30 majored in philosophy and religion at Bard About 15 years ago, something happened a.m. and is rebroadcast on Sundays at 6:30 College in New York, but dropped out to King that, in retrospect, solidified her p.m. and Tuesdays at 11:30 p.m. after money dried up. She then studied ties to the city and to her work. She was sociology and English at Rutgers-Newark. working on a documentary in the Iron- At the awards ceremony last September, bound section and by chance ate a piece of King lost - mostly to programs that reflect “I like to write and I’m obsessive about fish that was tainted with a neurotoxin. lurid fascinations in pop culture. One of issues and current events. I thought I King was hospitalized for three months and her nominated shows focused on inmates could go work for a newspaper,” King out of work for more than a year. who represent themselves in criminal said. It was the early 1970’s and King cases. It featured the story of a man who went looking for a job at The Star-Ledger. “I was really feeling there is a reason why spent more than 12 years in prison She was told, she recalls, “We don’t hire every day has to be used in a meaningful convicted of rape before he was cleared by girls for entry-level positions because it way and not just tossed away,” she said. DNA evidence. “That show lost to a piece requires working at night, and we don’t on women wrestlers,” King said.

MY FATHER told wonderful stories in his how I loved to walk with him, them, with a smile and a tear, from page 5 rich, beautiful baritone to be by his side...this remembering how desperately I voice...and with his hearty, handsome and radiant man missed him and how full of love He didn’t have to take me infectious laugh. He walked whom everyone we met and longing was my little seven anywhere, however, for me to into a room, any room, and he, responded to with a greeting year old heart. enjoy myself. I was so happy immediately, was a shining, and a smile. just to be in his company, striking presence...a light. He I am 72 now, and it is almost 20 wherever we were, because I had a thirst for knowledge and And then, off he would go years since my father is gone. always felt his unconditional instilled in me a love of again, for another two or three And yet, at times, it still seems love and because I wanted to language and history and months, But the letters came to me that he is only away on learn from him and to make him politics and people and animals. regularly as did my responses to one of his longer trips and that proud of me. them. Sixty years later, I we will soon, again, hear his He often talked to us, with great continue to reread some of his familiar whistle and that joyful He had a most engaging and pride, of our heritage and of his letters to me and, since he saved sound of him running up the charming way about him... he youth spent in Jerusalem, the quite a few of mine to him, I stairs to come home. city of his birth. I remember have those here, too, I read “Still In my wife and two children One of the community groups because I am still in love with I founded The Elizabeth The Hood… Weequahic. That’s right I still Avenue Corridor Improve- A Neighborhood live in the ‘hood’… neigh- ment Association wants you borhood that is…fancy cars, to come see what our hard Weequahic That Is…” no more bars, brand new work, perseverance, and lights, plenty of new sights. lobbying efforts produced Exhibition By Harold Edwards with the revitalization of the Class of 1966 I am a 1966 graduate of WHS. Elizabeth Avenue Corridor Linda Forgash, Curator and We just had our 40th year class from Meeker Avenue to Outreach Director for the (Harold is the newest member of the reunion. It was a great event - Grumman Avenue ($10 Jewish Historical Society of WHSAA Board of Trustees) lively, well attended, and re- million worth of new lighting, MetroWest, is seeking your flective of the 1960’s era new sidewalks and curb cherished memories for a Weequahic section population. improvements). major exhibition about Weequahic in the Jewish era I am a living witness to the We would love to play golf or to the present time entitled shifts in population and the tennis with you in beautiful Weequahic: Newark's corresponding cultural Weequahic Park, or use the Legendary Neighborhood changes - the highs - the lows new “state of the art” which will open in 2008 at and the current status of the rubberized walking and the Alex Aidekman Jewish neighborhood. I don’t just running track surrounding the Community Campus in come to Weequahic for lake, courtesy of the efforts of Whippany. meetings once a month, another community based football games and basketball group, the Weequahic Park Would you like your family games during the seasons, or Association (WPA). name and Weequahic Since 1962, when my family Beth Israel when someone is address to be included in moved to the Weequahic sick, or stroll through the park We sure could use your The Great Weequahic Map section of the City of Newark during walkathons or distance support for the successful that will be featured in the I have been in a love affair runs. I still live here…and I community groups that exhibition? Send this with Weequahic. love it!!!. provide recreation and information along with your guidance for the thousands of current name and current From what we know, we were Don’t make any mistake about youth who still live in the address to: the first African American it I (we) welcome everyone area: Newark Youth Golf family to live south of who comes back, even if it’s Club, The Althea Gibson [email protected]. Chancellor Avenue, at 121 only for a meeting or game Tennis Foundation, Above the Hansbury Avenue to be and we give big props to the Rim, Inc. (More Than Just Linda is also requesting that precise. There may have been Weequahic High School Basketball), The First Class you take a look at your shoe a Black doctor who lived in Alumni Association who have Championship Development box collections for photo- the Hansbury House at 801 led the charge back to the Center (Boxing) and the graphs, memorabilia, and Elizabeth Avenue down at the hood. Clinton Hill Community & artifacts such as restaurant bottom of Hansbury Avenue Early Childhood Center. menus, synagogue souvenir (if anyone has any information I personally will accompany journals, prom pictures, to clarify this point, please feel anyone interested on a modern So remember there are still football programs, letter free to contact me). In any day tour of the hood and some of us in the hood… sweaters, school jackets, or event, we came from the further invite you to partake in neighborhood, that is. any items pertaining to the Watson Avenue area - 293 our neighborhood cookouts, Jewish neighborhood of Johnson Avenue (Peshine Annual Bergen Street Festival, Thanks to Weequahic for purpose of Avenue School) in the our prayer services at any of Myrna Weissman, exhibition. summer of 1962. the many places of worship, or Phil Yourish, just engage in some historical Clarence Baker, Please give her the oppor- Here in 2007 I can probably reverberations. Ricky Herring, tunity of first right of live just about anywhere I and Robert Curry, perusal, before refusal. If desire, but I choose to main- The neighborhoods needs you. for inspiring me to you can scan, that would be contribute this article. tain my primary domicile here It’s built on your foundation. a perfect way to forward at 1 Weequahic Avenue with It welcomes your return. photographs. Make sure you scan at 300 dpi and save it in a tiff file. Who are the two Weequahic HS graduates, considered “Urban Legends” who founded Mark IV Disco in the 1970’s???? They can be found along with Dave Warner, Sheldon Bross, Dave Wright, Hal Braff, Leo Pearl, and Phil Yourish in an upcoming book entitled “Newark’s 1000 Urban Legends Series.” ALUMNI PROFILES Brunswick, and retired in 1985 after working 15 years.

Harvey, WHS June 1944, She, along with Harvey is addicted to and Muriel Lowy, are the dancing. They were part of the featured King and Queen of Swing entertainment at Muriel’s 55th high school class reunion. “Your partici- pation made it extra special.” Gloria By Cathy Schwarzenbek, Star-Ledger Wurtzel Sherman, a classmate, said. “It was a pleasure watching you dance, Muriel and Harvey Lowy, of Jackson, You made it appear so effortless.” formerly of North Brunswick met Muriel never took dance lessons. She through mutual friends on a blind date in and Harvey were a natural on the dance 1949. “We hit it off right away” Harvey floor. “ In my prime I couldn’t sit still. said, “I must have impressed him I loved Benny Goodman’s ‘Sing, Sing, because he asked me not to go out with Sing’ and Glenn Miller, but especially anyone else after our first date.” Muriel the swing music of the 1940s,” Harvey said. The former Muriel Weber and said. Muriel agreed and also said she Harvey Lowy were married on Feb. 23, enjoyed the rumba and other energetic 1952, in Newark. Fifty years later they dances. celebrated their golden anniversary with family and friends at L’Affaire in Harvey and Muriel have danced and Mountainside and five years later, had a entertained at three of their favorite with a Bachelor of Science degree in small family dinner to commemorate the places, The Taj Mahal in Atlantic City; business administration. He went on to occasion. Atlantis at Paradise Island, Bahamas; earn a master’s degree in business at and the Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas, Columbia University in 1949 and later Harvey was born on July 30, 1927, to Nev., and won many dance awards. In took education courses at Seton Hall Isadore Lowy, a Polish immigrant, and 1999, they were voted King and Queen University where he earned a teaching Mae, a New Yorker, and along with his of Swing - at the Rutgers Oral History certificate, ‘The nation rose up and sister, Dorothy he grew up in Brooklyn, Archives of World War II dinner dance. N.Y. At the age of seven or eight, the became a great education power because of the GI Bill,” Harvey said. family moved to Dewey Street in They are the parents of Professor of

Newark. Harvey is a graduate of Periodontics at University of Louisville The Lowys were able to purchase their Weequahic High School in Newark, Dental School Dr. Douglas Lowy; first home in 1958 in North Brunswick where he was a pitcher for the school Michelle Cartmill, married to Barry without a down payment because the baseball team. He was graduated in Cartmill of Wappinger Falls, NY, a government guaranteed the mortgage. 1944 and entered Rutgers College in second-grade teacher in Arlington, NY; He started out as a math teacher and New Brunswick and continued to play and the late Keith Ira Lowy, who died at seven years later, became a guidance baseball, but was drafted into the Army the age of four. counselor for the North Brunswick after only two years. Public Schools. He retired in 1982 after They are more than excited and proud to working 25 years. He took his basic training at Fort Bliss, talk about their three grandchildren, Texas, where his love of swing dancing Keith Cartmill, a fourth-year medical In June 1999, Harvey was interviewed was born. He attended the USO canteen student at New York Medical College, for The Rutgers Oral History Archives of dances and says he found it was a good Valhalla, graduating in May with his World War II, a web site of Rutgers way to meet girls, especially when they medical degree; Kimberly Cartmill, a graduates who served on the home front saw he could dance. He was not a first-year medical student at Dartmouth or overseas. He told his life story, combat veteran, but while stationed at Medical School in Hanover, N.H., and focusing on the war years and ending Fort Bliss, was part of the weekly Jeremy Lowy, a first-year student at with a discussion of postwar life under all-soldier radio show “Serenade in University of Louisville and a part-time the G. I. Bill. Khaki.” He later auditioned and was male model. You can see him in the part of the cast of “On Target” while Papa John’s Pizza advertisements. Muriel was born on July 19, 1926, to Ida stationed at the now-closed Fort Ord in and Benjamin Weber, was raised in central California. Because of ill health, Harvey Lowy can Irvington with her sisters, Mildred, now no longer participate on the dance floor, living in Florida and the late Sylvia, and The GI Bill of Rights introduced by but he and Muriel enjoy watching is an Irvington High School graduate. Congress in 1944 allowed Harvey to “Dancing with the Stars,” reminiscing She worked as a secretary for Rhone- finish his education free at Rutgers about their swing dance days and Poulenc, a chemical company in North College and he was graduated in 1948 listening to the old tunes on their stereo.

ALUMNI PROFILES and SNCC organized against racial By 1985 Komozi Woodard was the terrorism and for civil rights. Managing Editor of Children’s Express, an international program for youth WHS 1967 Through Newark’s SNCC office in 1968, journalism, headquartered in Manhattan. KOMOZI WOODARD Woodard organized a SNCC liberation At the same time, Woodard was attending school to teach African American history Rutgers University-Newark pursuing a Community Activist, in the summer of 1968. That summer, he Master’s in the Art of Teaching degree in Professor, and Author also assisted Nikki Giovanni in a poetry history. workshop in New Jersey. While he was an undergraduate, Woodard began By 1986, Woodard was awarded a Komozi Woodard teaching a lecture course in Sociology, fellowship to study history at the was born Kenneth “Perspectives on Race” at Dickinson University of Pennsylvania. He began Woodard at Beth College in Carlisle, PA. teaching college at Rutgers University Israel Hospital in and then was awarded a post-doctorial July 1949. Before In 1968 and 1969, Woodard worked with fellowship at Northwestern University in college, he was many Newark youths to found the Chad Urban Policy & Public Policy as well as educated in School. Around the same time, a another in African American Studies. Newark at 18th Weequahic alum Cliff Carter founded the Avenue School, Black Youth Organization (BYO). Since Northwestern is located in Cleveland School, Woodard also organized the statewide Evanston, a suburb of Chicago, Woodard Waverly Avenue Congress of African Students in began working in Chicago’s Algebra School, West Kinney Jr. High, and Pennsylvania, with branches from Project with Bob Moses of civil rights and ultimately Weequahic High School. At Philadelphia to Pittsburgh. SNCC lore. And he assisted Bob in Weequahic, Komozi Woodard joined his writing the history of the Mississippi uncle Edwin Woodard, a football By 1969, Woodard was renamed Komozi Movement and in preparing the television champion, and his cousin, Maureen Woodard as he worked with Amiri movie, “Freedom Song.” Since then Woodard. Baraka to build several black power Woodard has worked on such docu- groups: the Committee for a Unified mentaries as “Eyes on the Prize” and In 1965, Ken was selected by Weequahic Newark, the Congress of African People, “America’s War on Poverty.” teachers for the Princeton Cooperative the African Liberation Support Schools Program (PCSP). Through that Committee, the Black Women’s United Today Komozi Woodard is a professor enrichment program he was educated Front and the National Black Political of American History, Public Policy and at Princeton University and Andover Assembly. Newark became a leading Africana Studies at Sarah Lawrence Academic in the summers of 1965 and center for black power politics during College and a professor of Urban 1966. This PCSP was the prototype for those years. Studies at Eugene Lang College of the Upward Bound programs throughout the New School University. He has country. After graduating from Dickinson College, published numerous articles and five Woodard edited two newspapers during books, including A Nation Within a Always interested in politics, Ken ran for that period: Black Newark and Unity & Nation, Freedom North and Groundwork. the president of the Orange & Brown Struggle, one local and one international. He also put together the microfilm Association but lost to Herman Rosenfeld, He directed an urban renewal planning documentary, The Black Power who he is still friends with today. It was agency, the Project Area Committee, in Movement, Part 1, Amiri Baraka from in high school that Woodard first heard the early 1970s and the controversial Black Arts to Black Radicalism. about the heroic leader, Fannie Lou Kawaida Towers project that was halted Hamer in the Mississippi Freedom by mob violence. In addition to a Black Power docu- Democratic Party. mentary, “NewArk Rising” (Tambua In addition to housing development, Productions), Woodard is currently At Weequahic, Woodard joined a number Woodard also directed economic working on three books: one with Jeanne of political organizations, including a high development in the Congress of African Theoharis, The Jim Crow North; a second school chapter of the Students for a People. After editing a magazine in with Jeanne Theoharis and Dayo Gore, Democratic Society (SDS) and the Manhattan, Woodard returned to teaching Women in the Black Revolt: Want to Start Student Nonviolent Coordinating in 1984 when a Weequahic alum, Phil a Revolution? and a third with Mary Committee (SNCC). SDS organized Yourish, hired him as a history teacher at Dillard on Black Liberation, Yesterday, against the draft in the War in Vietnam Independence High School and as the Today and Tomorrow. editor of “Children’s Express.”

Join Us at our annual ALUMNI HOMECOMING on Saturday, October 20, 2007 See our State Championship Football Team and the Re-Dedication of the newly renovated Untermann Field You'll Get A Kick documentary on Weequahic. Out Of This! Krichman feels that By Phil Yourish, 1964 the players need at least five sessions to A couple of months ago the telephone become proficient at rang in my office. It was Monroe kicking. For this to Krichman. He had a new idea and wanted happen, additional to share it with me. I met Monroe for the arrangements have to be made with first time about a year ago when he was Jakowenko - and he gets paid for his on the class of June 1955's reunion services. Also, some equipment needs to committee. Subsequently, he volunteered be purchased such as practice football to assist us in the planning of our first holders, a snapper's target, special kicking Scholarship Fund Raising Dinner. Now or field goal with consistency. And he shoes etc. Coach Krich has already put he has become an alumni association knows most high school teams do not together a manual on kicking and plans to Board member. I hear from Monroe have accurate kickers. According to have the sessions videotaped. often. You see, he's an idea man and he's Krichman, "punting and place kicking never short on ideas. control 50% of field position." The next workshop is scheduled for Saturday morning, June 9th. Come and Back in 1955, he was the quarterback of Never willing to let a good idea wither, join us. And if you would like to make a the Weequahic football team. In those Krichman, a man of action and positive donation to support this program, send in days they called him Monte. One of his thinking even off the football field, started a check made out to WHSAA with teammates was a guy named Alvin Attles. making arrangements for a kicking "kicking" in the memo area and mail it to who was an All-County receiver. That program. He brought his idea to the the WHS Alumni Association, P.O. Box team won only 4 games, but beat alumni association, made phone calls and 494, Newark, NJ 07101. Thanskgiving Day rival Hillside for the wrote letters to former Weequahic 2nd year in a row. According to athletes, and started to raise funds to make Meanwhile, in the office of Coach White Krichman, "that was our legacy." this happen. the telephone rings. The coach scans the caller ID with a look of recognition and Like all good Then on Saturday, May 5th, the "Coach some apprehension. "This is Krichman," quarterbacks, even Krichman Kicking Academy" opened to a the robust voice on the other end says, "I at age 70, Krich- small group of Weequahic football have a another fantastic idea. You'll just man is always players at the newly renovated Untermann love it! I'm coming over to tell you all thinking on his feet. Field. (By the way, the field looks about it." And it's the "feet" fantastic - check it out). The football that has spawned his players received lessons on the art of Stay tuned for the next chapter in the new interest in kicking from guest instructor George ongoing saga of volunteer kicking coach Weequahic football Jakowenko, a former kicker for the Monroe Krichman, former Weequahic after 52 years. With Buffalo Bills and Oakland Raiders in the High School quarterback. the excitement National Football League. about Weequahic's first state football The first session was a championship still very classic before- echoing in his head, and-after situation. At Krichman with first, the football just some help from his dribbled off of the tees. magic pigskin came The kicks hardly left the up with an idea that ground. For a time it he believes will give looked like a hopeless the high school football team a compe- endeavor. To their credit, titive edge in the years to come and will the players never became help them continue their success. discouraged. And by the end of the initial 2-hour So the former quarterback and successful lesson, they were kicking entrepreneur is now in the kicking 20-yard field goals. The business. He convinced Coach Altarik turnabout was amazing. 1955 Football Team Graduating Seniors - L-R Front Row: White, with much persistence, that the And all of this was Alvin Attles, Bill Krim, Dave Matthews, Harvey Waldman, difference between winning and losing captured on film by Beth Back Row: Chuck Grossman, Bob Goldberg, Bob Lynn, could be the ability to make an extra point Kruvant, who is doing a Monroe Krichman. ALUMNI PROFILES Moreover, Muriel was the first public Service Award at Tuesday’s Township relations executive to win the Achievement Committee meeting. Presenting the award Award of American Women in Radio & were Leonard Morvay, a member of the WHS June 1944 Television, and first woman to receive the township's Service Award Committee, and MURIEL FOX “Business Leader of the Year” Award from Karl Becker, president of the MSHVFAS. Americans for Democratic Action. She "I'm so honored," Silverman said, noting Co-Founder of the National received the Matrix Award from New that whereas he has been volunteering for York Women in Communications and the 31 years, several other members of the first Organization for Women Woman of Accomplishment Award from aid squad have longer tenures. Silverman, the Wings Club. who has lived in the township for more Born and raised in than 40 years, joined the squad in 1974 Newark, Muriel She has lectured frequently throughout the after seeing the squad's Cadillac ambulance Fox has had a dis- world on such topics as Communications, parked in Taylor Park for July 4th festi- tinguished career as Family Trends, the Women’s Movement, vities. He said he was looking for an outlet a public relations and “Moving Women Up the Corporate for his free time and decided joining the executive and a Ladder.” squad would be a way to contribute to his co-founder of the community. National Organi- In 1948 Muriel graduated with a B.A. zation of Women degree from Barnard College, where she In the following years, Silverman has (NOW). was summa cum laude and Phi Beta served in almost every capacity for the Kappa. In 1955, she married Dr. Shepard squad, including as president in 1998. He Currently, Muriel is the Honorary Board G. Aronson and they have three children, has been a vice-president, trustee, first Chair of the NOW Legal Defense and Eric, Rolf, and Lisa. Today, she resides in lieutenant, training officer, and crew chief. Education Fund (now called Legal Tappan, New York, and is president of the Before retiring 15 years ago from a Momentum). She served as Board Chair Rockland Center for the Arts. family-owned business that produced solar of NOW from 1971 to 1973, and as a materials, he rode in the evenings. Now he member of the NOW National Board from WHS 1945 rides most Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1966 until 1974. She headed NOW’s 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. public relations during its first two years, JACK SILVERMAN beginning before the founding conference Silverman said he is proud of the squad in October, 1966, and was the com- If you don't know what to do and the service it performs for the municator who first introduced the new when you retire, ask Jack. community. Although many area squads women’s movement to the media of the are hurting for volunteers and have had to world. By Patricia Harris, hire professionals or partner with other

The Item of Millburn squads, the township's organization has A former executive vice president of Carl been operating for nearly 50 years Byoir & Associates - one of America’s continuously and manages to draw a corps three largest public relations firms, Muriel At age 78, town- of nearly 70 crew members who can was on Business Week Magazine’s list of ship resident Jack provide 24/7 service, he pointed out. 100 Top Corporate Women and described I. Silverman has in June 1976 as the “top-ranking woman in the distinction of In addition to serving on the squad, public relations.” being the oldest Silverman has been serving as a mediator riding member of in Small Claims Court in Newark and in In 1991 the NOW Legal Defense and the Millburn-Short Essex County Municipal Courts, including Education Fund created the Muriel Fox Hills Volunteer in the township's court for the past six Award for Communications Leadership First Aid Squad. years. Silverman said he volunteered for Toward a Just Society. The first winner of (MSHVFAS) and the position after reading that the Superior the “Foxy” was Muriel Fox herself. In one of its longest- Court System of Essex County was 1996 the Fund surprised her with an “Our standing members. looking for volunteers with business Hero” award “For a Lifetime of Dedication experience. Following training, he spends to the Cause of Women’s Equality.” Yet Silverman is not resting on his laurels, two mornings a week working in Newark nor does he have any intention of quitting. on legal cases in which claims up to She also was the first recipient of New He said this week his current certification $15,000 have been made. York State NOW’s Eleanor Roosevelt as a squad member runs through 2008, Leadership Award in 1985; and that same when he will be 80 years old, and he is Several other days a month he works in the year Barnard College selected her to working on his certification for the Nutley and Irvington municipal courts. He receive its Distinguished Alumna Award. following years by taking continuing meets with litigants and seeks to facilitate She is listed in “Who’s Who in America,” education courses. settlements that will keep the case out of “Who’s Who in the World” and “Foremost court. Women of the Twentieth Century.” For his volunteer efforts, the Audubon go to page 12 Court resident received a Community group's chair - the Lerner, who belongs to the Reform ALUMNI PROFILES position prev- Temple Sha'rey Shalom in Springfield, iously held by also touted Meretz support for SILVERMAN from page 11 Lerner. non-Orthodox religious streams in Israel. "We believe in religious pluralism and Cases run the gamut from property The organization ending the control the Orthodox group disputes to visitation rights to consumer known in full as has over marriage and divorce and complaints, Silverman said, noting he Meretz USA for citizenship," he said. "We would like to manages to get the parties to agree to a Israeli Civil see the other streams have a voice in settlement in approximately three out of Rights and Peace, what happens in the country." four cases he mediates. "It's very is a nonprofit interesting and rewarding." organization According to its web site, Meretz USA affiliated with the World Union of Meretz has "18,000 friends and constituents" Also in his retirement, Silverman sings and with Meretz-Yahad, the Israeli social across the country. Lerner would like to bass with the Rahway Valley Jerseyaires democracy party led by Yossi Beilin. It see the organization increase its national Barbershop Chorus and has served as the currently holds six seats in the Knesset. presence and establish new chapters in group's president. His barbershop quartet, places like Boston and Philadelphia, TLC, performs at senior citizen facilities Lerner, a retired patent attorney living in where, he said, it already has a substantial and nursing homes around the area. Warren with his wife Beverly, is also number of members. As part of its Silverman quips he is writing a book, national vice-president of the Union of growth, he would like to see its role on "How to Retire Happily without Golf or Councils for Jews in the Former Soviet the college campuses expanded through Tennis." Union and a member of the board of the its affiliation with the Union of Jewish Council for Public Affairs. Progressive Zionists, an umbrella group Other community service activities for that also includes Habonim Dror, which he was honored include serving as In a February 2 interview, Lerner said Hashomer Hatzair, and Ameinu. Cub Scout troop leader in Wyoming that he hoped as president to see the Church in the 1960s and a listener in Meretz USA position gain ground among Recently, UPZ won a struggle with the Wyoming Elementary School from 1998 American Jews. He characterizes its right-wing Zionist Organization of to 1999. approach as a willingness to look at the America, which sought to have it good and the bad in Israel, as the Israelis excluded from the Israel on Campus He has been married to his wife, themselves do, rather than a "my Israel, Coalition because it cosponsored a tour Geraldine, also known as Gerri, for 44 right or wrong" approach. "We have of North American campuses by years and has six children and seven confidence that the country can be pro-peace veterans of the Israel Defense grandchildren. Gerri Silverman received better," he said. Forces. a Community Service Award from the township last year. Lerner described Meretz as the party Lerner said Meretz USA's aim is "to that traditionally has taken the lead in promote the peace process with an WHS June 1952 championing policies that later have been exploration of ideas - not just in the adopted by those in power. Israeli party Jewish community but in the wider Lawrence I. Lerner leaders "certainly control their own population - in a way that supports a destiny, but we support their policies and greater vision for Israel.” State leader elected president of what they have been trying to do as a U.S. support group for Meretz minority party," he said, referring to the In his new capacity, he has already been role of the American support group. doing that - as he has for so many years in By Elaine Durbach, NJ Jewish News other roles. On February 4, addressing Among the party's actions, Lerner cited the men's club of the Summit Jewish Lawrence I. Lerner, chair of the New its "involvement in peace initiatives and Community Center, he said, he argued for Jersey State Association of Jewish in efforts to reform the economic system fairer treatment of Israel's Arab Federations and a longtime leader in the that has allowed the disparity between population. Central New Jersey Jewish community, rich and poor to become so great." was elected president of the progressive "The division between Arabs and Jewish Zionist organization Meretz USA. He Lerner welcomed the recent contacts - citizens of the state must be lessened. succeeds filmmaker Lilly Rivlin. supported by Meretz - between Israel This can only be achieved when discri- and Syria leaders, despite his skepticism mination and exploitation are ended. Actor, musician, and civil rights activist about the outcome. "It's a long shot, but Then it may be possible that the true Theodore Bikel, perhaps best known for that's no reason not to try. The Syrians Zionist dream of a free and democratic his role as Tevye in stage productions of are playing a key role," he said. state for the Jews and all of its citizens Fiddler on the Roof, was chosen as the will be on the path to achievement.”

CONTRIBUTE TO THE LES AND CEIL FEIN ENDOWMENT FUND Trip To France

WALDO Thank you for your generous WINCHESTER contributions. The students This popular column from the Calumet first had a grand time! appeared in 1950. What a way to spend Spring vacation. Once again, French teacher Lavinia Rogers organized Ira Melon, 1963, let us know that his wife Ruth Bernadette Melon a trip to France for a small group of students from published her first book, Journey to the White Rose in Germany in January the high school - the 2nd trip in three years. 2007. It is a non-fiction narrative of resistance against Hitler and the Nazi Funds for this excursion were raised by the regime during the Third Reich. In 2003 Ruth was awarded a Geraldine R. participating students and the WHS Alumni Dodge Foundation grant to continue her research in Germany for this book. Association, which donated more than $30,000.

An article appeared in The Star-Ledger on Jamie Cohen, the daughter of 1964 WHS grad Lorrie Axelrad Cohen and her husband Howard. Jamie saved the life of girl who was drowning in a swimming pool using her training and three years of experience as an EMT. She is a pre-med junior at the University of Michigan and is majoring in psychology with a biology minor.

Alumni Co-President Hal Braff, 1952, and Executive Director Phil Yourish, 1964, have been appointed to the Board of Trustees of the Jewish Historical Society of MetroWest. Phil is also the new President of the Board of Trustees of the Jewish Museum of New Jersey.

Richard Kuperman, 1966, was one of the speakers at the Jewish Museum of New Jersey event: Jews and Blacks in Conversation: Civil Rights and Civil Unrest. He is the President of the African American-Jewish Coalition.

If you saw the public television special "The Boomer Century 1946-2046," host Ken Dychtwald, a psychologist and gerontologist, introduced himself as a native of Newark. But Ken is also a 1967 graduate of WHS. In the A Weequahic Documentary: Have documentary, those in the "boomer generation" look at their past, present you been noticing camera crews at our events and future. Rob Reiner, Julian Bond, Lewis Black, Oliver Stone, Erica Jong, like the Scholarship Fund Raising Dinner, Tony Snow and Andrew Weil also participated. Homecoming 2006, and the football championship game? Filmmakers Beth Alumni Co-President Judy Bennett, 1972, and her staff at the Newark-based Kruvant and Paul Bartick are currently Clinton Hill Weed and Seed Partnership, a U.S. Department of Justice working on a documentary about Weequahic Initiative, sponsored a DMJM Aviation job shadowing experience for 20 and how the Jewish and African-American Weequahic students. communities have influenced each other's lives. She has already interviewed alumni, Principal Ron Stone and other Newark educators were honored by the former and current staff, administrators, and Bennedetto Croce Educational Society at a dinner at Mayfair Farms. Ron’s students. If you have a story, ideas or mother, Elayne Brodie, was also honored by this organization in the past. thoughts about Newark and Weequahic that you would like to share, please contact Beth at Former Weequahic foreign language teacher Florence Misurell celebrated [email protected]. her 95th birthday this past March. She is living very happily at Seabrook, a retirement community in Tinton Falls, NJ. Still full of energy and enthusiasm, she is taking classes in Spanish, Shakespeare, music Correction: appreciation, and meditation. She helped found a Yiddish club, a French speaking group and an over 90’s club. If anyone wants to get in touch, it is In the last newsletter Herb (732) 922-1790; her address is 202 Harbor Lights, Tinton Falls, NJ 07753 Schonwetter didn't recognize the high school picture accompanying his letter. So Congratulations to Weequahic High School Coach Kcyied Zahir and his we're trying again. Is this the Track and Field Team for winning its 2nd straight city championship. real Herb in 1950? ALUMNI VOICES wore knickers. Girls always wore skirts or dresses, bobby socks Bill Belfer, June 1963 and saddle shoes. Sneakers were for gym I was very saddened only. We walked to to hear of the school, took buses if passing of Les Fein. we could make Les had a policy of connections, but we not allowing anyone were never afraid to travel alone, even L-R: Irma and Reida in the gym while he late at night. coached his teams. I decided to play detective and got on the However, after track It was also a time of separation. We had Internet. Knowing her marriage name practice he let me sit to take courses that separated us from our and that she had lived in New York, I up in the bleachers grammar school friends. Boys went off found nine people with the same name, and watch the team go through drills. to war, never to return. We still but the ages were not right. I then remember their names. We attended class searched for “anywhere” instead of New I remember the patience he had showing reunions when they were held, hoping to York and came up with four more. I Mo Layton, then a freshman, how to play see those we lost touch with. double checked using her husband’s name point. I learned a lot about basketball to see if I could come up with a match. from those moments, and though I was Luckily I have been able to keep in touch Sure enough, I found a match, but there not physically gifted to play the game, I with Peshine Grammar School friends, still were three other people it could be. was mentally equipped to teach my boys the Ad-Lo-Hoc-Girls. We all meet at about it and even coached little ones least once a year. Some of us see each I decided to write a letter to the person I myself. other more frequently because we live thought it could be, stating who I was and close by. We all talk of those "good old asking if she was that person. I mailed Les had an important impact on me. I days" and chuckle and laugh. All of our the letter on a Thursday. On Saturday, I remember his policy regarding parents families know of those days and wish that received a phone call from Reida (new and teachers who tried to influence him to they had the same memories. spelling of her first name) Jobrack play their own kids. Any teacher who Lipton! She was thrilled when she approaches me to get their kid to play is Enclosed in the envelope is a check for received the letter from me and we had a surely going to see their kid cut, he would the Leo Pearl Memorial Fund. I very nice conversation. say. I saw the fairness in him when as a remember Leo from Panzer College, now parent I had kids that had to battle their a part of Montclair State University. He Now, the surprise ending is this: Reida way onto basketball teams with coaches later became my supervisor of Physical has lived in North Ft. Myers, Florida who played politics more than coaching. Education at McKinley in Newark. I for the last sixteen years. That is just returned to teaching when my oldest about one hour from where I have lived Two years after leaving Weequahic, Les daughter began college and remained at for over 30 years!!!!! was in my corner when I petitioned the McKinley until my retirement in 1990. US Maccabiah Games Committee to On Saturday, November 4th, I went to her review my college discus records for a It's been a wonderful life home to visit with her and we had a great chance to make the team. Les, being on time together. I brought my yearbook the US Sports for Israel Committee, Irma Franzblau Goldstein, and borrowed a yearbook from a friend endorsed me and I made the team. Bill, June 1947 who graduated with Reida and it was so he told me, “I thought you wanted to play much fun going through them. basketball, not throw a discus!” I thought the following might be inter- esting to print in the Calumet. It is a nice I have advised the committee from the Les was truly a great teacher and 1948 class of Reida's address. She also wonderful person who influenced and story. I graduated in June, 1947 (in 3 1/2 years) but most of my friends graduated took the application for membership in benefited so many kids. We really need the Alumni Association from one of my to see that new arena in his name. with the February, 1948 class. I chose to attend the reunions where I could meet Calumets and you should be hearing from her soon. We are all looking forward to Selma Rosenstock Cohen, with my friends. the 2008 class reunion, which we plan to Jan. 1943 I always asked if anyone had located a attend. girlfriend from the class but was told that she was on the “missing” list. Her name Note: The class of Remembering Weequahic High School Jan. and June 1947 Reunion during the years January 1939 to January was Rita Jobrack Lipton. The last we had seen each other was when her is on Sunday, June 10th 1943 brings back floods of memories. It at the Crestmont Country Club was a traditional time, Some boys still daughter and my son were about 6 months old, which is about 55 years ago. in West Orange. numerous article about the Weequahic Usually it weighed exactly what was asked ALUMNI VOICES section. (Many of them appear at for. www.oldnewark.org) Owen T. Wilkerson, Jan. 1961 Coffee beans were first weighed and then (to Phil Yourish, Alumni Calumet Editor) Some of his Old Newark Memories I ground to your order. It was a thing of read again and again for the wonderful beauty to watch the grocer extract a pickle The winter 2007 recollections they evoked. There was so from a vat of brine. There was sometimes issue #20 of the much of Newark still in his heart. Take a doubt as to whether or not a short grocer Calumet is a a few minutes to read some of Bill's would fall into the vat when the pickle masterpiece! "Memories" and you will find them all supply was low. Keep up the reflecting his love of the city and his outstanding earlier life there. He will be missed. Many kinds of cookies, candies and nuts work. It was were delivered to the grocer in large burlap great meeting Bill’s story about the neighborhood bags. A bag usually weighed about 50 lbs. you (again) grocer follows: Many times if the grocer was busy the back in October customer reached into the bag and took a at the classes of Looking back one must conclude that the handful of the contents. If too much was January and neighborhood grocer was a combination taken, the excess was thrown back. June 1961's human calculator and computer. It seemed 45th Reunion in that the grocer instantly knew the answer If any grocer operated today as they did in Long Branch. Little did we know that to any question about his business. If you the 30's, they would have untold health during our tenured days at West Kinney Jr. asked where a certain item was, such as department violations and be facing a High School (both of us were on the Campbell's pea soup, you might get an multitude of lawsuits. I cannot ever recall faculty) that we were WHS alumni. answer like this, "I sold out last night, but anyone getting sick and blaming it on more is coming in tomorrow at 2:30. unsanitary conditions at the grocery store. From time to time - during my lecture Come back then." He knew the location Today we frequently read of a food store travels - I run into Weequahic alumni - and of every item, the price, whether or not it being sued because someone got sick from have conveyed to them of your “dedicated was his stock and if not, when it would be. an item purchased there. and professional leadership initiatives” as WHS Alumni Executive Director. WHS, At the completion of a sale, before bagging unquestionably, has a profound and any items, all the retail prices were written Beverly Farber Cook, 1954 historic legacy of academic excellence, of on a bag. The grocer added up the figures which we all should be proud. faster than most people can do on a cal- culator. A pencil stub about two inches This donation is in It was a shocker to say the least - to learn long was part of a grocer’s standard equip- memory of Morris of Les Fein’s passing. He was a ment. As each column was added, he Brenman, who was compassionate human being...full of vim would write the figure down and put the Chairman of the and vigor as my health education and gym pencil point in his mouth and spin it about. Foreign Language teacher, back during 1958, 1959, and My mother checked the addition on every Department and a 1960. I vividly remember his favorite bag from the grocer. I don't believe she super French teacher motto: a winner never quits...a quitter ever caught an error. while I was a never wins - illustrative of his student at WHS. extraordinary basketball acumen as a It was seldom that anyone paid the grocery We students never coach. He was also an impeccable dresser bill at the time of the sale. The grocer had realized how much he was cramming into (Bohemian avant garde with a Brooks a black and white blank book. Customers’ our heads. The class was always Brothers - Paul Stuart flair). names were written on the various pages. interesting and, much of the time, fun. It was a simple matter to enter a date and I was just as terribly startled to learn of the amount of the charged items. When a He's been gone such a long time that very "Gerry" Lee’s passing. He and I both bill was paid he simply crossed the amount few people remember him, but those of us were on the WHS varsity indoor and off. There is no doubt the neighborhood who do will always have him in our hearts. outdoor track teams (under Coach Joe grocer had more people owing him money Nerenberg). Girard was a hell-of-a than the neighborhood bank did. hurdler. He also played varsity football Helen Gans Hines, 1937 with such WHS gridironers of that era - There were many items that were carried Eddie Barker, George Foster, Warren in the grocery store that were called bulk Bratter and Lenny Gibbons. items. Butter, cheeses, many brands of I send this check to honor the students who coffee, cakes, candies, and pickles were have brought this school to the fore. How William Newman, 1942 some of the many bulk items. If you asked proud I am of Weequahic High School and what it has become since I graduated in (Sent in by Paul Newman, Bill’s son) for 1/4 pound of butter, the grocer opened a refrigerated compartment in which was a January 1937. I read your newsletter with joy and happiness. Bill lived in Margate, Florida. He attended large tub of butter, he would cut off a piece Weequahic for one year. He has written and catch it on a waxed paper and weigh it. ALUMNI VOICES real Weequahic Indians super hero from the armed alumnus and an extraordinary human services. After grad- being. uation he worked for Vic Silverman, June 1943 Sperry-Rand and then I have had the distinguished opportunity went into the real Thanks for the great of meeting him upon occasion, once at a estate business for a job of keeping the professional basketball game. In retro- number of years. This torch lit! I have been spect my most memorable occasion was followed with a enjoying your news- occurred 50 years ago when I had the venture into the car letter for several opportunity of briefly guarding him when rental business, and finally back into real years. I turned 80 I was on the high school basketball team, estate. this year and have and he was a college star who returned to fond memories of the play in an alumni game. Bob was married 45 years to Bobbi "wigwam on the hill." Yablon Goodman, had four children: Over the passing years, I have read Jeff, Frann, Jaine, and Donna, and three One of them is: Max Herzberg, our several articles about his accomplish- grandchildren. He lived in Metuchen, Principal, calling us into his office ments and great achievements on the and most recently in Piscataway. While individually just before graduation and basketball court, but even more impor- at Weequahic he was an outstanding asking us, "Victor, what nationality are tantly, his outstanding contributions bowler, receiving many awards, as well you?" Without hesitation I replied, as a caring, philanthropic, dedicated as being recognized for his scholastic "Jewish." "That's not right, Victor, you human being who has attempted to offer achievements. On a personal note "BG" are American. Jewish is your religion." assistance to many worthwhile causes was a close friend of Stu Jason and This at the height of WWII. What a great throughout the years. myself for over 60 years. We shared a lot leader he was! Another memory is eating of good times, as well as the bad. His potato knishes across from the school at a I feel it is a privilege to honor him by friendship will be deeply missed. kosher deli. making my donation to his scholarship fund and I hope enable other motivated Ivan Wyden, Jan. 1955 Since Weequahic, I served in the Army young students to be able to successfully continue their educational endeavors, of occupation of Japan, graduated from On March 10th 2007, I achieve their goals, have their dreams UC Berkeley, and taught history and learned of the passing come true, become productive contri- government in high school in Lakewood, of another classmate, buting members of their community, and Ohio. (I was President of my teachers' and friend, Ivan who knows, become the next super hero. association when we went on strike). Wyden, Class of Being an activist came easy after my January, 1955. He Periodically I return to New Jersey to social studies teacher David Weingast lived for many years in visit my family and on other occasions I got me thinking! Hollywood, Florida, meet with a handful of special friends with his wife Iris. Ivan from Weequahic who love to reminisce I'm still in touch with an old Weequahic had two sons Michael, and Adam. He and share wonderful stories and nostalgic buddy Marvin Eisler, who gets your was a 1959 graduate of Rutgers memories of our youth in the neighbor- newsletter in Palm Harbor, Florida. University. Ivan owned a printing hood. From these interactions and Keep up the good work. Enclosed is business in Florida, and was active in through other connections, I have kept a contribution to the Swede Masin youth sports for over 40 years in Florida. Scholarship Fund. abreast of the great success and achieve- ments of the Alumni organization and I While at Weequahic, he was a catcher on hope it will continue to grow and the varsity baseball team, and was a William Ertag, 1956 progress from strength to strength. member of Upsilon Lambda Phi. I last

Thank you for your saw Ivan one month ago at the great efforts in Weequahic reunion in Delray Beach, organizing the gala \Ç _Éä|Çz `xÅÉÜç Florida which I attended with Stu Jason. Sadly we were the only ones there to event honoring our Harvey Rein, 1955, sent us his thoughts represent our class. distinguished alumnus, on two classmates who passed away. Alvin Attles who hosted * * * * * and energized the special evening of Robert Goodman, Jan. 1955 Sonia Holzman Gaffney, 1940 activities dedicated to Estelle Davis Schlossberg, 1941 obtaining contributions to establish in his Robert "Bob" Goodman (or "BG" as he Dr. Herbert J. Fisch name a much needed scholarship endow- was called by his close friends) class of Peggy Bernheim, 1946 January, 1955 passed away last April 14, ment fund. It is my privilege to make a Rita Rubin Matlin, Jan. 1951 donation on behalf of Alvin since he is a 2006. Bob was an Army veteran. He attended NCE in Newark on his return Dr. Philip Jay Hodes, Faculty Foundation grant for study in Europe, Beautiful towns don’t decline overnight; \Ç _Éä|Çz `xÅÉÜç concentrating on political systems and they surrender, one building at a time.” the rising tide of communism in Italy. DAVID E. WEINGAST “He was an inspiring teacher,” his Dr. Weingast, the second longest- family said, “whose students would meet serving of some 17 superintendents, him years and decades later and recall Former Weequahic Principal worked through some tough times, a the passion he conveyed to them about decade of turmoil with one crisis history, social studies and politics.” (from the Ridgefield, Connecticut newspaper) seeming to come on the heels of another: school building debates, problems with Besides his wife, he is survived by four Dr. David E. overcrowding, battles over books and children and their families: Beth Weingast, a budgets, an unhappy teachers’ union, Weingast Halperin and husband Dr. lifelong and many lesser issues. Edward Halperin of New Rochelle, educator who N.Y.; Erica Weingast of New York City; was super- But, he said, it was also a period of Jeremy Weingast and wife, Francene, of intendent of accomplishment: the creation of a West Hartford; and Victor Weingast and Ridgefield, CT modern, balanced program of studies, wife, Diane Moore, of Montclair, N.J. schools for 10 the introduction of greater emphasis on He also leaves six grandchildren, years and the writing, the expansion of fine arts Alexander Halperin, Anna Halperin, author of four offerings, the increasing use of Anthony Halperin, Lila Weingast, Jay books, died community resources, the hiring of Weingast and Andrew Weingast. Thursday, April capable staff, rewriting the whole 12. He was 94, the husband of Bea curriculum from kindergarten through MORTON SELTZER Weingast for 65 years. 12th grade using teams of teachers, and the improved management of money. The most scholarly of Ridgefield’s “I think we’ve achieved a good balance Former Math Teacher and Chair superintendents and the only one to between teaching the basics and settle permanently in town, Dr. Weingast promoting student creativity,” Dr. Morton Seltzer, was born May 5, 1912, in Newark, N.J., Weingast said. educator and the son of Lena and Nathan Weingast. author of mathe- His father was a plumber. He retired here when he reached 65, and matics books, became a consultant on education, died on March He graduated from New York Univer- working out of his Main Street home. 21. Born in sity and began his career teaching Asked at the time if he might ever run Newark, Mr. elementary school in Newark in 1931 at for a seat on the not-always-cordial Seltzer was a $1,300 a year. He received his master’s school board under which he worked, he longtime resident from Columbia University in 1936 and laughed. “Never! I couldn’t be of West Orange moved to teaching history at Newark’s dragooned or seduced or bought!” before moving to prestigious Weequahic High School, True to his word, Dr. Weingast in Maplewood where he became department chairman retirement was an active citizen but recently. and Principal. In 1961, he was seemed content to remain on the appointed as assistant superintendent for sidelines of Ridgefield politics and the He obtained B.A. and M.A. degrees secondary schools in Newark, respon- town’s educational debates. Occas- from Montclair State College and sible for nine high schools and six junior ionally he wrote letters to the newspaper received grants for advanced study at highs. on issues that interested him - opposing other colleges and universities. He condominiums on north Main Street, served as Chairman of the Mathematics Dr. Weingast received his doctorate in supporting expansion of the library. Department of Weequahic High School 1948 from Columbia University. He as well as Director of the College wrote four books for middle and high In 1981, with characteristic thought- Review Center. school students: Walter Lippman: A fulness, he opposed a zoning variance to Study in Personal Journalism (1949), allow an expansion of hotel uses on In addition, he was the author of several Franklin D. Roosevelt: Man of Destiny West Lane. “The people who ask for books on modern mathematics, as well (1952), This Is Communism (1959), and exceptions to the zoning rules mean as Mathematics of the Gun Data We Elect a President (1962). Ridgefield no harm,” he wrote. “But Computer, which he wrote for the Army each applicant wants what he wants. Coast Artillery when he served during The last two have appeared in several The sum of their wants is more cars, World War II. He is survived by his editions, and the Roosevelt book was more blacktop, more congestion, more wife, Shirley; sons, Lyn of NYC and once chosen one of The NY Times best noise, more dirt, more pollution... Donald of Arlington, Mass., and a books for young people. Before coming grandson, Matthew, of NYC. to Ridgefield he received a Ford MEMBERSHIP / MERCHANDISE / SCHOLARSHIP Form Send to: WHS Alumni Association, P.O. Box 494, Newark, NJ 07101 or make your purchases with a credit card at www.weequahicalumni.org - Please Print Clearly -

DATE: ______TOTAL AMOUNT: $______

2 Payment Choices: 1. ___ CREDIT CARD (mail or telephone): __ MC __ VISA - Amount $______

Credit Card #: ______Exp. Date: ______Signature: ______

2. ___ CHECK: Make out check to WHSAA - Amount $______

5 Merchandise Choices (circle size of T-shirt and sweatshirt):

1. ____ $5.00 WEEQUAHIC ALUMNI LAPEL PIN 2. ____ $15.00 T-SHIRT (sizes S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL - khaki with big W in orange & brown) 3. ____ $15.00 HAT (one size fits all - khaki with orange & brown lettering) 4. ____ $25.00 SWEATSHIRT (sizes S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL - khaki with big W in orange & brown) or white (large only) 5. ____ $3.00 each BACK ISSUES OF THE ALUMNI CALUMET (issues 1 through 20)

Special Fund Raising Project: $______Weequahic Murals Restoration Project :

19 Scholarship Choices: 21

1. $______ALVIN ATTLES Endowment Fund 11. $______READA & HARRY JELLINEK Endowment Fund 2. $______MAXINE BOATWRIGHT Memorial Fund 12. $______PHYLLIS & DONALD KALFUS Fund 3. $______MOREY BOBROW Memorial Fund 13. $______HANNAH LITZKY Memorial Fund 4. $______CLASS OF 1945 Fund 14. $______BERT MANHOFF Memorial Fund 5. $______CLASS OF 1963 SCHOLARSHIP Fund 15. $______SEYMOUR 'SWEDE' MASIN Memorial Fund 6. $______CLASS OF 1964 SCHOLARSHIP Fund 16. $______EDWIN McLUCAS Athletic Fund 7. $______GENERAL ALUMNI Fund 17. $______MARIE E. O’CONNOR Fund 8. $______RONALD GRIFFIN Memorial Fund 18. $______LEO PEARL Memorial Fund 9. $______LES & CEIL FEIN Endowment Fund 19. $______SADIE ROUS Memorial Fund 10. $______MIRIAM HAMPLE Memorial Fund

5 Membership Choices: ___ Check if change in postal address

___ $25 ALUMNI ___ $50 ORANGE & BROWN ___ $100 ERGO ___ $500 SAGAMORE ___ $1,000 LEGEND

Class (Month & Year): ______Current or Past Occupation: ______Name: ______Last Name at Weequahic: ______Street: ______City/Town: ______State: _____ Zip: ______Phone: ( ) ______Business: ( ) ______Cell: ( ) ______e-mail: ______Murray is survived and supervisor of guidance for the East \Ç _Éä|Çz `xÅÉÜç by his loving wife, Orange school district. Arlene; his Bertram Polow, 1935 daughters, Hildy Dr. Lee co-founded the LST Group Inc., Forman of a consulting firm that provided among Arlington Va., other things law enforcement sensitivity Bertram Polow, 88, of Morristown, VT., and Ellen Forman training, rites of passage programming died on January 30, 2007 from congestive Obstler, of San targeted at middle school African- heart failure. Bert lived in Irvington, Anselmo, Ca.; his American boys, and family management Newark and Morristown, NJ for many stepdaughters, training for low-moderate-income years before moving to Vermont. Vikki Reiser, housing residents. Among his most Debby Stewart and Stacy Kochanowski, important values was his passionate belief He was an avid musician, playing the all of New Jersey; his sons-in-law, Peter that African-Americans identify with their piano and the accordion throughout his Obstler, Rob Reiser, and Tom cultural African heritage and he organized life. He had a band called Buddy Polow Kochanowski; and his eight trips to countries in Africa. and The Rondoeliers during his younger grandchildren. days. In World War II, Bert served as a He also served as past president of the staff and combat intelligence officer. Donations may be made to the Heart NJ Association of Black Psychologists Failure and Heart Transplant Program at and NJ chapter of the National Forum for Following the war, he received a law Beth Israel Medical Center in Newark. Black Public Administrators. He also degree from NYU Law School in 1948, was a Democratic Committee member and a master’s in law degree from and the first chairman of the Plainfield Rutgers University in 1952. Bert Dr. Gerard W. Lee, 1960 Municipal Utilities Authority, a position practiced law in New Jersey privately and he held for 10 years. as a prosecutor in Morristown, NJ from Dr. Gerard 1948 to 1963. He began his judicial William Lee Jr., Dr. Lee is survived by his wife Wilma of career, first as the Morris County Juvenile 64, an educator 39 years, his only son, Bakari Gerard Lee, and Domestic Relations Court judge, then and civic leader, Esq., his sisters, Janice Hill-Lee and as the Chancery judge. passed away on Dorian Douglas; his brother-in-law, March 7, 2007, at Edward Macklin, and his sisters-in-law, He was then appointed as an appellate Memorial Sloan Alice Cheatham, Sylvia Johnson and judge in the Appellate Division of the NJ Kettering Cancer Donna Macklin. Superior Court, where he wrote 700 Center in New decisions from 1979 until his retirement York City. in 1983. Bert also served as chairman of Martin Scher, June 1956 the American Bar Association’s Family Dr. Lee was born on August 25, 1942 in Martin Scher, 68, Court and Family Law Section during the Newark to Gerard W. Lee Sr. and Willa 1970’s. passed away on May Mae Sidney Lee. He attended Newark 17, 2007. Born in public schools, graduating from Newark, Mr. Scher He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Weequahic High School in 1960. He Betty Krohn Polow; his brother, Leonard lived in Cranford received his Bachelor’s degree from before moving to Polow; and his three children, Abby Craig Shaw University in North Carolina and in and her husband Todd Craig, Dr. Sara Green Brook 20 years 1963 participated in the March on ago. He was the Polow and her husband Mark Heidt, and Washington led by the Dr. Martin Luther David Polow and his wife, Bridgett co-owner of Scher King. He returned to Newark and met Brothers, a window Polow. He is also survived by his six Wilma J. Lee who became his wife. grandchildren. covering and upholstery company, in Green Brook and Cranford. He attended In 1971, he earned his MA degree from Seton Hall University in South Orange Murray Forman, 1946 Newark State College in guidance and and was a member and past president of counseling and received his doctorate in Temple Beth-El Mekor Chayim in Murray Forman died on February 22, education in 1980. Dr. Lee had a long Cranford, and past president of the Men’s 2007 at age 78. He was a graduate of and fulfilling career in education and Club. He is survived by his wife, Connie Weequahic High school and received a community service. He was a teacher in (Burgess) Scher; four sons, Steven and degree from Rutgers University. He was Newark, the director of counseling at his wife, Jennifer, of Portola, Calif., a navy veteran of World War II and Roselle High School, the director of the Andrew and his wife, Michele, of belonged to the Mason Masada Lodge. EOF program at William Paterson Morganville, Roger of Edison and Todd He had a happy and successful life, University, dean of Student Affairs at of Egg Harbor City; and four grand- founding Sherri’s Cookery, a company Essex County College, senior guidance children. Donations may be made to the that makes deli salads, named for his counselor in the Plainfield school system, American Cancer Society or Lung Assoc. beloved daughter, who died in 1985. REUNIONS 2007: CELEBRATE OUR 10TH ANNIVERSARY WITH US! HOMECOMING 2007 ☺ June 10 Jan. & June 1947 - 60th 10 AM, Saturday, October 20, 2007 Sunday, 11:30 AM, Crestmont Country Club, West Orange, NJ. Contact: Janet Goldstein Tour of School, Buffet Brunch, Slide Show, Chernus at (973) 992-0684 / [email protected]. Meet the Principal, Alumni Merchandise, ☺ June 22 Neighborhood Parade with the Marching Band 1977 - 30th and Cheerleaders, and Football Game Friday, 8:00 PM, Snuffy’s Pantagis Renaissance, Untermann Field Re-Dedication Ceremony Scotch Plains, NJ. Contact: Nona Smith Davis at (201) 341-3215 and Dexter Adams at (864) 877-1104. Class Cook Out on Saturday. Register at [email protected]. WHS ALUMNI WHS ALUMNI STORE ☺ September 8 ASSOCIATION Multi-Class: 60’s & 70’s See page 18 to order or order from our web site Established in 1997. The WHS Alumni Saturday, 7 PM, Robert Treat Hotel, Newark. Association is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit $50.00 per person. Send in your money NOW. organization incorporated in New Jersey. Reserve your hotel rooms (alumni discount). Visit the high school, local attractions and Phil Yourish, 1964, Executive Director points of interest. Harold Braff, 1952, Co-President For more information, contact: Judy Bennett, 1972, Co-President Sam Weinstock, 1955, Treasurer: Adilah Quddus (1971) at (973) 372-9849, Myrna Jelling Weissman, 1953, Secretary Willie West (1972) at (201) 978-1293, Gerald Russell (1974) at (908) 419-2916, Board of Trustee Members: Charles Talley (1966) at (908) 753-1926. Larry Bembry, 1966 Sheldon Bross, 1955 ☺ September 9 Marshall Cooper, 1969 Vaughn Crowe, 1998 Jan. 1957 - 50th Mary Dawkins, 1971 Harold Edwards, 1966 Sunday, 11:30 AM, Forsgate Country Club. Arnold Keller, 1952 Monroe Township, NJ. Contact Frances Letzter Monroe Krichman, 1955 Malkin at (201) 704-5064 / [email protected]. Dave Lieberfarb, 1965 Arthur Lutzke, 1963 ☺ Sharon Price-Cates, 1972 October 28 Adilah Quddus, 1971 June 1957 - 50th Gerald Russell, 1974 Dave Schechner, 1946 Sunday, 12 PM, Maplewood Country Club, Vivian Simons, 1959 Maplewood, NJ. A Weekend of Fun. Contact Ron Stone, Principal Bea Austrager Chaiklin at (973) 992-3650 / Charles Talley, 1966 [email protected].

Weequahic High School Alumni Association First Class Mail PLANNING: U.S. Postage P.O. Box 494, Newark, NJ 07101 PAID Permit No. 205 ☺ Jan. & June 1962 Orange, NJ 07050 HELP is needed to organize a reunion for the classes of January and June 1962. Please contact Bonnie Zunk Vogel at [email protected].