Leichtag Foundation

December 25th brings together two special pieces of the Leichtag Foundation story. First, we celebrate what would be the 84th wedding anniversary of Toni and Lee Leichtag z”l, honoring not only their devoted partnership but also their dedication to the community as a couple.

Second, we bring our attention to the rich cultural history of the beautiful Poinsettias now in bloom. For almost 90 years, Poinsettias blanketed the hillsides of the Paul Ecke Ranch, now Leichtag Commons. The Ecke family cultivated a hardy, compact variety of the plant, which they sent to be displayed on the sets of televised Christmas specials. Native to Central America, Poinsettias were used by the Aztecs for medicinal and decorative purposes, and called cuetlaxochitl. They have been associated with Christmas for centuries as "Flores de Noche Buena" (flowers of Christmas Eve).

Leichtag Foundation wishes a very merry Christmas to all who celebrate, and may this wedding anniversary of the Leichtags remind us of the power of unity in uplifting our communities.

Today marks 12 years since the loss of our dear friend and board member Murray Galinson z”l. Murray lived his life as a "rodef shalom," or a “chaser of peace,” with a robust commitment to improving the San Diego community through civic engagement. His wisdom, kindness, and strength have guided each Leichtag Foundation decision since he joined our board in 2010.

Named in his memory, the Murray Galinson San Diego-Israel Initiative (MGSDII) is dedicated to his unwavering devotion to advancing peace and constructive dialogue. Murray believed in the immense power of nuanced discourse and understanding on campus, and he was passionate about creating pathways for those opportunities. MGSDII carries Murray’s legacy through building connections between San Diego and Israeli universities, students, and faculty, as well as promoting academic study of modern Israel.

In Murray’s memory, a consortium of San Diego organizations, which benefitted from his leadership, planted the ancient symbol of peace - the olive tree - at Leichtag Commons. Alongside it is placed a stone, a physical marker of Murray’s incredible life and legacy. We miss his wisdom, charisma, and welcoming presence every day. May his memory be a blessing.

Shabbat Shalom.