During their weekly SEED speaker period, RKYHS students were privileged to hear from Mr. George Blank. Blank recounted his story of survival during the Holocaust as a young child. In addition, Blank shared with students the story of his friend Mr. Yehuda Reich, who was also in attendance. Reich does not talk publicly about his experience during the Holocaust and Blank described for the students some of the horrors that Reich withstood at Auschwitz and elsewhere to survive the Holocaust and his move to Israel following the war and his role in the early establishment of the State of Israel.

In addition to “teaching memory” so that the lives and harrowing experiences of these men are never forgotten, Blank offered additional inspirational words and gave insight into the importance of the State of Israel and for Jews all over the world, no matter what their backgrounds or differences, to know that they have a home, a respite, and a refuge in Israel.

Blank concluded his remarks with an important message that the students took to heart before the yamim noraim. He imparted upon them the incredible opportunity they have before Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur and how this time of year allows for the opportunity to better oneself and one’s relationships as well as the chance to elevate oneself as a Jew and as a human being. Mr. Blank closed his talk with discussing how all of the students should be grateful and appreciative for what they have and for the outstanding Jewish education they are receiving.