Millie Nyman - Miami Yiddish Radio

Partial Transcript: My name is Millie Nyman right now, and my maiden name was Schachter, the daughter of Jacob Schachter. And my mom was Clara Schachter. And I was born in the Bronx, New York. And my dad had a radio—was station that he was on for many years in New York City.

Partial Transcript: The discussion covers her parents’ origins in Romania, their move to Canada, and eventual settlement in New York City. Millie elaborates on her siblings and the early familial ties to Yiddish theater through her uncle.

Partial Transcript: Focuses on Millie’s father’s involvement in Yiddish radio, influenced by her uncle, who was a Yiddish theater actor. Discusses her father’s success in the radio.

Partial Transcript: Describes the family’s move to Florida in 1944, Millie’s subsequent life events, including schooling, marriage, and moving to Dayton, Ohio.

Partial Transcript: Details her father’s struggles and eventual success in establishing a Yiddish radio program in Miami post-World War II, earning him the title of the pioneer of Yiddish radio in Miami Beach.

Partial Transcript: Discusses the establishment and performances of Yiddish theater in Miami in the 1950s by her uncle at various theaters, including the Plaza Theater and Cinema Theater.

Partial Transcript: Elaborates on the content of her father’s radio shows in Miami, highlighting notable interviews and live performances, including a memorable interview with Golda Meir.

Partial Transcript: Millie paints a vivid picture of life in South Beach, focusing on the Jewish community, popular restaurants, and the social and cultural scene, including various theaters and eateries.

Partial Transcript: She emphasizes the significance of preserving the memory of Yiddish culture and heritage, connecting it to broader Jewish history, including the Holocaust.

Partial Transcript: Discusses the reasons behind the decline of Yiddish culture, attributing it to the passing of the older generation and lack of younger performers continuing the tradition.

Partial Transcript: Millie shares her personal reflections on being raised in a Yiddish cultural environment and the importance of this heritage.