Aventura and Modin, Israel Forge Sister City Bond
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
05/24/2024
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Recording Published:
05/24/2024
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Duration:
141 Minutes
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State:
Florida
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County:
Miami-Dade County
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Towns:
Aventura
- Meeting Overview:
Aventura City Council has officially established a sister city relationship with Modin, Israel.
The meeting opened with a notable moment as artwork by Aventura High School students was presented. Distinguished guests included United States Senator Rick Scott and Israeli Council General Maoz Bass Starinski, both of whom acknowledged the importance of the relationship between the United States and Israel.
The council’s discussion revolved heavily around the resolution to establish a sister city relationship with Modin. The resolution was rooted in a long-standing effort to strengthen ties with Israel, stemming back to previous council periods. Support from the council was unanimous, with members recalling past initiatives and expressing pride in Aventura’s firm support for Israel.
Senator Rick Scott addressed the council, denouncing anti-Semitism and confirming the United States’ alliance with Israel. His words resonated with the sentiment in the room, as council members and guests alike highlighted the need to stand united in support of democratic values and against acts of terrorism.
The presence of Mayor Bibus of Modin contributed to the meeting’s dialogue. He expressed gratitude for the unwavering support from the United States and the Jewish communities, particularly in light of recent attacks in Israel. Mayor Bibus outlined Modin’s contributions to Israeli society, focusing on education, technology, and emergency services, and articulated the potential benefits of the partnership with Aventura.
Aventura’s commissioners added to the discourse, sharing their perspectives on the partnership. The shared values, such as support for Israel and the desire to foster unity against political polarization, were highlighted as cornerstones of the relationship. The partnership was described as creating an “unbreakable bond,” with a focus on strengthening ties and supporting each other.
The Council General of Israel and other speakers, including a state representative and a former mayor, praised the connection between Aventura and Israel. A letter from Senator Marco Rubio was read, further reinforcing the solidarity with Israel. The resolution to establish the sister city relationship was passed, symbolically sealed with the exchange of gifts between the mayors, including a piece of art from a local student.
The meeting also included a presentation by State Senator Jason Pizo, who announced a personal donation to Magen David Adom (MDA), Israel’s national emergency medical response organization. A benediction followed, including prayers for hostages in Gaza and IDF soldiers’ well-being. Representatives from MDA and Hatzalah South Florida spoke on the impact of support from Aventura, including a notable ambulance donation, emphasizing the shared commitment to saving lives.
The closing remarks by the council reiterated the importance of humanitarian efforts and the city’s stance on the ceasefire in Gaza. The meeting concluded with plans to move outside for the dedication of the donated ambulance, a tangible representation of Aventura’s support for its new sister city and Israel at large.
Howard S. Weinberg
City Council Officials:
Dr. Linda Marks, Michael Stern, Billy Joel, Paul A. Kruss, Rachel S. Friedland, Esq., Amit Bloom, Ellisa L. Horvath, MMC (City Clerk)
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
05/24/2024
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Recording Published:
05/24/2024
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Duration:
141 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Noteworthy
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State:
Florida
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County:
Miami-Dade County
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Towns:
Aventura
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