I commend Ilana Freedman�s insightful article (�Empowering our community against terrorism,� Sept. 1).

Freedman points out how we can do our part in foiling unpredictable terror attacks targeting Jews and Americans. We need to live normal lives and not be deterred by terrorists. If we stay home in fear we hand the enemy a victory. As a counterterrorism expert, her timely advice indicates how we can take responsibility in making our communities safer and feel empowered.

Undoubtedly, the recent hate-filled attack in Seattle at the Jewish Federation building is a reminder that none of us is completely safe. Hopefully some good can from the horrific premeditated murder of Pamela Waechter and the wounding of five other women.

My thoughts and prayers go out to the victims. May the wounded continue to make a good recovery. Ms. Waechter was a good, kind and charitable person. She did not deserve to be gunned down. May her memory be a blessing to her family and the Seattle Jewish community for her distinguished service.

Josh Basson

Seattle