Where I Stand — Brian Greenspun: A league of its own

Tuesday, May 9, 2000 | 9:41 a.m.

Brian Greenspun is editor of the Las Vegas Sun.

It is not what you say about yourself that counts, it is what others say about you.

On Saturday night Las Vegans and others joined together at Caesars Palace to say about Arthur Goldberg all that is good about the philanthropic heart of America. They came to honor Arthur with a Special Achievement Award from the Anti-Defamation League.

For those unfamiliar with the ADL, it has been around for almost 90 years, pursuing its mission of combating anti-Semitism and securing justice and fair treatment to all citizens alike. Even though hatred and bigotry still plague us at home and abroad, the ADL has been a singular success in tracking and exposing the hatemongers, while educating the rest of us about the evils of such anti-democratic activities.

For those unfamiliar with Arthur Goldberg, he has almost achieved native status in Southern Nevada, having become involved with Bally's 11 years ago and now is chairman and chief executive officer of Park Place Entertainment, one of the leading gaming and entertainment companies in the world. Beyond his job, though, Arthur is a man who by example has been a leader in the world of philanthropy and a leader in the cause of tolerance and understanding.

It is no wonder that the ADL chose Arthur for what he said felt like a "lifetime achievement" award even though he insisted that he has a long way to go to continue to achieve the ambitious goals he has set for himself, both in the corporate world and in what I believe is his more important world, that of philanthropy and giving back to the broader community that has been so good to him. And if the way he bounded up the stairs to receive his beautiful award -- one that I was privileged to give him -- is any indication, he'll have a long time left to accomplish the challenges he has set for himself.

There was an energy in the room Saturday night that added credence to the cause we were supporting. Clearly, Arthur's unbounded excitement for being chosen for doing what he loves to do set the tone. But there was more. Former Mayor Ed Koch of New York, for example, was the keynote speaker. At 76, his ability to recall and retell a story from his very eventful past was an inspiration to many of us who have trouble recalling what we had for lunch. And the incredible talent of former "Saturday Night Live" comedian Joe Piscopo, who was the evening's master of ceremonies, added the lighthearted touch that was needed to convey the difficult message of the ADL's lifelong dedication to fighting the ugliness of hate and terror that has become so commonplace in our country.

As my sister, Susan Fine, who is the president of the Las Vegas ADL, keeps reminding me, if it weren't for the dedicated staff and volunteers of the ADL, most of what our law enforcement officers know about the haters in society would still be a secret, leaving the good and law-abiding citizens at the mercy of those who wish only harm and destruction. Through Susan's leadership and Arthur's willingness to lend his good name, this year's dinner was an incredible success. Through Susan's efforts and those of others around the world, the work of the ADL continues unabated and undeterred in its quest to eradicate hatred and intolerance.

I am reminded of two moments during the evening that I would like to recount. The first was Arthur's thank you speech, in which he spoke of his efforts -- beyond those of a corporate executive charged with the responsibility to do so -- to assist those less fortunate in our society, whether they are down on their luck or being put upon by some type of bully. His warmth and sincerity, as well as the strength with which he shared his message, made clear to all in the room that here was a man who not only believed in giving back but who was committed to persuading others to do so, too.

The second was Mayor Koch's story involving Mother Teresa. While the good mayor was recovering at his home at Gracie Mansion in New York City, the victim of a stroke more than a decade ago, Mother Teresa came calling with three nuns at her side. The mayor invited the ladies to sit with him on his porch on that hot and sticky summer day and offered them lemonade and fresh chocolate chip cookies. They politely declined, explaining that it was part of their vows to turn down such hospitality. The cost of such hospitality where they worked -- mostly India -- could be an entire month's pay. By saying no to the wealthy they could do likewise to the poor, who could ill afford it, without causing any embarrassment.

"But," Mayor Koch implored, "these are the best chocolate chip cookies anywhere in the world."

Without skipping a beat, the good Mother said, "Wrap them up."

The point of the story is clear. There are ways we should treat other people that does not embarrass them or cause them pain. In this case she was true to her vows and a good and proper guest at her friend the mayor's house. While he never said so, my guess is those cookies went to some homeless person somewhere along Mother Teresa's route to her next stop. Hers is an example of doing right by others and to others.

What the members of the ADL must deal with is the exact opposite. They must find and expose those who preach hate before their words and deeds poison the wells of democratic thought. Theirs is an unending battle, but it is one that must be fought and which will be won because of men like Arthur Goldberg, who not only put their money where their mouths are but their time, effort and leadership where their hearts are.

It seems that with the encouragement he had from the ADL and a roomful of friends and admirers, Arthur will probably spend the next 20 years redoubling his already selfless commitment to the betterment of others. We will all be better off for his efforts.