Laurel: To a vision to move forward. Since October 2018, the corner of Wilkins and Shady avenues in Squirrel Hill has been more than just an intersection. The building has been more than a gathering place. It has been a crime scene, a battleground and a memorial to the 11 people who died in the deadliest synagogue attack in the United States.

On Tuesday, the future of the Tree of Life-Or L’Simcha synagogue was unveiled. It will include a memorial, museum and worship space, but it will also include an institute focused on ending antisemitism worldwide.

“Some might think that’s rather naïve or an impossible task and ask why just antisemitism?” said Rabbi Jeffrey Myers, who was leading services for one of the synagogue’s three congregations on the morning of the shooting. “Antisemitism is the root. People who commit antisemitic acts are not merely antisemites. They’re also anti-Black, anti-gay, anti-Asian/Pacific Islander — any group that they’re not comfortable with, they will spew forth their violent language and actions.”

The Holocaust Center of Pittsburgh will merge with the new institute called simply Tree of Life. The plans are a commendable effort to remember the past, serve present needs and work toward a better future.

Lance: To a solution that shouldn’t be necessary. Westmoreland County District Attorney Nicole Ziccarelli has created a Law Enforcement Coalition to have better communication between the prosecutor’s office and local police departments, determine needs and provide training.

“Members will collaborate with local departments in their respective areas and relay critical information to my office,” Ziccarelli said. “This will assist us in recognizing needs across the county and ensuring our departments are well equipped and well trained.”

Is this really a necessity? Were police departments not communicating with the DA’s office before? Were many local police departments working without the equipment they need, and if so, what role does the DA really have in providing tools and training?

What this does is fulfill a campaign promise Ziccarelli made, and does so early in her first year, much less her first term. Kudos for that. But it feels more performative than proactive.

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