Dear friends,
 
Six months to the day since the Tree of Life synagogue shooting in Pittsburgh, yesterday we were again confronted with a vicious act of anti-Semitic violence - this time at Congregation Chabad of Poway, California, north of San Diego. Our Federation stands against all such acts and stands in solidarity with the Jewish communities of Poway and San Diego.

We pray for the families of the victims. We remember Lori Gilbert-Kaye, who bravely protected her rabbi, for a blessing. We pray for a refuah sheleimah, a speedy and complete recovery, for Rabbi Yisroel Goldstein, Almog Peretz and 9-year-old Noya Dahan. And we give thanks for the courage of the other congregants, onlookers and law enforcement officials who responded.

Our Federation is also grateful to the many law enforcement officials who help to keep our local community safe. After yesterday's shooting, we were in immediate contact with police to increase security at local synagogues. We will continue to work with law enforcement and all our local Jewish agencies, schools and synagogues to safeguard our community. Federation's Jewish Community Relations Council will also continue to build strong relationships with government officials and other faith communities to work toward a more peaceful and tolerant future.

In sadness,
 
Howard

Howard Sovronsky
President & CEO

Cary

Cary Lakenbach
Chair, Board of Directors