Local Jewish community reacts to Texas synagogue hostage incident

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MID-HUDSON – The Jewish Federation of Greater Orange County Monday issued a statement that the organization “stands together with our brethren at Temple Beth Israel in Coleyville, Texas.

A gunman held three people hostage during a prayer session. They escaped after 11 hours and the gunman was shot and killed.

“We continue to monitor alerts from the Secure Community Network and other outlets as they arise. This ordeal further reminds us of the ongoing need for the Jewish community to remain alert,” according to a statement signed by Federation President Harvey Kallus and Executive Director Wendy Cedar.

They said that during the past several years they have worked with other Jewish institutions throughout the county to increase security measures in their buildings. They are also training the instructions to apply for additional federal grants to further enhance security in their buildings.

The statement said the training on situational awareness scheduled for January 30 at 10 a.m. on Zoom “is more timely than ever in today’s world.”

They noted “the more members of our community and your personal circle that complete this training, the safer we all are.”

The Westchester Jewish Council said that according to local and federal authorities, “there is no reason to believe that there is any imminent threat to synagogues or institutions in the greater New York area,” but they  said Jewish institutions should “review your existing security protocols and strengthen your relationship with local law enforcement.”




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