In response to the recent killings of four Israelis by the Palestinian resistance group Hamas, about 100 supporters of the state of Israel gathered at the Congregation Beth El courtyard in University City on Sept. 7 to hold a demonstration calling for a year of peace. The San Diego Israel Coalition (SDIC), a new grassroots pro-Israel advocacy group, organized the event to coincide with the eve of the Jewish New Year. Supporters gathered in the courtyard and sang the “Star Spangled Banner,” “God Bless America” and “Hatikva,” the Israeli national anthem. After, several crowd members blew shofars, or ancient musical instruments made of ram’s horns — a common symbol of Rosh Hashanah. “When Jews blow the shofar, it’s a spiritual and intellectual wake-up call to examine our actions and commit to personal improvement for the coming year,” said SDIC co-chair Audrey Jacobs. “This gathering is a symbolic call for everyone to renew efforts to pursue peace in the Middle East in the coming year.” SDIC co-chair Michael Laurie then delivered a statement calling for peace and expressing support for the recent round of peace talks between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Mahmoud Abbas of the Palestinian National Authority. “Understandably, there is much skepticism about these peace talks because of the failures of similar efforts over the past 16 years,” Laurie said. “Most people on both sides do not believe the other side truly wants peace. Yet despite all the challenges, it is vital that every effort be made to reach a final, durable, just and lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians.” Laurie also called for perseverance, despite previous disappointments during the peace process. “As we listen to the plaintive call of the shofar, let it remind us that, despite all the challenges, we should still dare to dream,” he said. “Let these peace talks continue forward in a positive way. Let the enemies of peace not succeed in deterring this process.” The demonstration ended with supporters singing several famous Hebrew folk songs about peace. Supporters waved both American and Israeli flags. To learn more about the SDIC or to become a member, contact Audrey Jacobs at (619) 993-9077 or by e-mail at [email protected]. The group can also be located on Facebook and YouTube.