Community Rallies To Support Chabad Of Parkland   

Published May 26th, 2008

By Nicol Jenkins
Editor

The Parkland community has joined hands to help the Chabad of Parkland after a hate crime.
This past month, three swastikas were spray-painted on the youth hall building of the synagogue with the word “Heil” next to one, and “4 Hitler” was sprayed on nearby a stop sign.

“This is the act of a coward. It’s a hate to faith and a hate to humanity,” said Rabbi Yosef Biston. 
Since the incident, Rabbi Biston says local residents and businesses have donated funds and prayers to help the synagogue recover. Dr. Scott Herman of Tropical Chiropractic & Wellness hosted a fundraiser to help the Chabad add more security to its site and many others have donated to the cause.

“It’s really impressive. It’s been strong camaraderie among everyone. A lot of people have come to visit us and sent donations,” said Rabbi Biston.

With the funds raised, the Chabad has added new lights around the building and in a few months the Rabbi hopes to raise enough funds to add security cameras around the entire building.    
The FBI is currently investigating the crime but there have been no leads as of yet, according to Rabbi Biston.
“We don’t know who would have done something like this. We have never been threatened. I didn’t expect something like this- not in Parkland,” he said.

The synagogue held a prayer vigil for its members and other victims. Prior, the Chabad of Miami was burned down and someone stole the Torah.

“We will continue with greater strength,” said Rabbi Biston.
The Broward County Sheriff’s Office is seeking any information on the crime and Crimestoppers is offering up to a $1,000 reward.

Contact Broward Crimestoppers at 866-493-8477 or submit a tip at www.browardcrimestoppers.org.
Chabad of Parkland is also seeking donations to add more security, contact Rabbi Biston at 954-970-9551 or visit www.chabadofparkland.com.