Re: [Cz-L] Different needs and wants

On 8/18/05 7:47 AM, "Attiyeh" <rea_at_ucsd.edu> wrote:

> Hello, all --
>
> With reference only to the Czernowitz visit itself, it does seem as though
> there are several sets of needs and wants emerging. Perhaps it would be
> possible to organize our time in that city in such a way as to recognize
> and satisfy these as much as possible and practical.
>
> For those who wish mostly to meet with fellow Czernowitzers, share stories
> and memories or simply listen to them, there could be time set aside for
> informal discussion -- perhaps with a facilitator and some structure. Time
> for pre-war, during war, and postwar experiences (if our ages span such a
> range). Time for sharing photo-boards. Talk about school experiences, etc.
> People could obviously continue such conversation on their own as much as
> they wish, afterward.
>
> For those who wish to walk the streets of the Jewish Quarter, to see the
> Synagogue, the current Jewish Center (I've forgotten what it is actually
> called), to see where the old schools were, there could be such a tour.
>
> For those who wish to see specific streets and addresses -- as I do, among
> other things -- where their family members lived, were born, died, perhaps
> we might list in advance what these addresses are. Then two or three guides
> might help to walk with small groups whose streets are near to one another,
> to see these specific places if they still exist. Their names may have
> changed, but I think we have information to help "translate" from old to
> new names.
>
> For those who wish to visit outlying towns where their families lived, that
> too might be accomplished in small groups. A Souceava group. A Radauti
> group. Etc. Again, if we say ahead of time the names of the towns that are
> important to us, such groups could be formed. If there are town halls or
> churches or even a remaining synagogue where records might still be housed,
> that should be investigated ahead of time to allow for maximum satisfaction
> for those to whom this is important. This of course would need
> pre-planning, and guides.
>
> I suspect many of us would like to spend some time in the Cemetery. That
> could be an organized tour, with copies of the plot maps distributed so we
> can wander independently. Afterward, we can discuss whether we'd like to
> follow up on Nina's idea to help restore the cemetery, or not, and, if so,
> how best to do that.
>
> We should be taking into account that some people can walk cobbled streets
> easily and for long periods of time -- and some can't.
>
> We should be taking into account that some speak Hebrew, some speak
> English, some speak German or Yiddish or French or Russian -- but not
> everyone speaks all these languages. So some thought should be given to how
> best to facilitate comfortable conversation.
>
> As for the extension trips -- days in Vienna, or traveling through Romania,
> L'viv or wherever, that is a whole separate issue. And once again, there
> needn't be dissention, but, rather, a menu of options.
>
> If this all sounds way too complicated, well, at least it's a way to think,
> straightforwardly and rationally, about how to respond to the different
> suggestions and reactions that are emerging. We clearly have the potential
> to be a large group, and no one formula can make everyone ecstatic -- but
> we can try, instead of breaking down in frustration and disagreement.
>
> Jessica Falikman Attiyeh
>
>
Dear Jessica,

I agree with all of your suggestions, except the visits to places in the
southern Bucovina, which is in Romania and too far and complicated for day
trips from Czernowitz. I would suggest that those wishing to visit places in
the southern Bucovina, do so either before or after the stay in Czernowitz.
Some may do so individually, (it is possible to rent a car in Romania),
others may want to do so as a group. Thinking about it, day trips to
Transnistria from Czernowitz may also not be advisable.

The questionnaire I sent to our group was meant to find out what everyone
wanted, just as you suggest, but by now only 11 people have answered me.
Did you find this questionnaire objectionable? Would you like to change it
in some way? I by no means think that it was perfect and will gladly have
you or anyone else present another one, or a modified one. In my opinion we
need to have a means of tabulating what everyone wants, so that we can come
up with a collective plan.

Since I am sending this letter to our whole group, just another note: As of
now, the lowest airfare from most of the US to Bucharest in May is $1057, in
June the price goes up to $1317. The lowest fare from Israel or Vienna in
both months is around $400 and from London $252.

Best regards, Mimi
Received on 2005-08-18 09:27:15