San Diego was home to my father before the turn of the 20th century. It was still home to his descendants as the 21st century came over the horizon and with the hopes of a continuing tradition, the family will always remain here.

I am proud that I have been a close observer of the development of our Jewish community and the enrichment of our cultural life as we continue to preserve the memories of those who came before us and for those to whom the torch is passed.

The gift of giving fulfills my obligation as a Jewish woman to a city and a community of people that has brought many honors and happiness to my life. It has endowed me with the privilege of performing tzedakah in the names of my parents, George and Anna Shelley and my late husband, Morton Thaler and myself.