Thank you note from Children of Beit Tzipora

This letter, dated April 29, 1999, is from President Bill Clinton to Elie Wiesel. Clinton expresses gratitude to Wiesel for his participation in the Millennium Evening at the White House on April 12, an event integral to America's "Honor the Past and Imagine the Future" initiative. The letter reflects on the profound relevance of Wiesel's message about the perils of indifference and lessons from a violent century, particularly in light of the ongoing ethnic cleansing crisis in Kosovo. Clinton states that Wiesel's personal story, courage, and hope serve as an inspiring example against human suffering. He also mentions that Hillary, Marion, and Elisha were much enjoyed guests, concluding by valuing their friendship.

Rabbi Relles born in Skala, Poland June 2, 1908 lived in Italy from 1933 to 1944. He studied at a university and a rabbinical college. He explains how he managed to remain in Italy as a student. He describes Mussolini’s treatment of Jews and his changing attitude towards Hitler. Even after anti-Jewish laws were passed in1938, and his arrest and brief internment in June 1940 first in Campagna, then in Ferramonti, he was treated extremely well by the Italians. In December 1943, after police warned Jews they would be arrested, Rabbi Relles tried to flee. He was arrested near the Swiss border and detained first at a Questara in Como, then at a barracks in Camerlata in Northern Italy. He describes his escape to Milan, stays at various safe houses, and living in a rest home under a false name, using papers giving him a new identity, helped by individual Italians, nuns and a committee that worked to rescue Jews. He explains how he survived and gives a very detailed account of his escape to Switzerland in April 1944 - when he was brought to Como from Milan as part of a group rescue organized by a Mrs. Comelli. He cites many instances of help by non-Jews and kind treatment from Italians during this period. He arrived in the United States from Switzerland November 8, 1951. Interviewee: RELLES, Rabbi Mayer Date: June 27, 1983

Thank you note from fourth grade student at Beit Tzipora.