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In this newsletter:
- Mayor Weiss stands with Israel
- Fighting antisemitism
- From Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw
- Gregg in the news
- We're sharing pictures of a few events Mayor Weiss attended. Let us know if you'd like him to visit a meeting or event in your neighborhood.
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Mayor Weiss Stands With Israel | |
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My heart aches at the recent violence in Israel. The images of destruction and suffering are appalling. Children killed, families torn apart, and communities destroyed—this is not just an attack on Israel; it's an assault on humanity.
For too long, the world has excused hatred and violence against Jews and the state of Israel.
It is time to say enough. It is time to stand up for Israel!
To the Palestinian people, I say this:
Your suffering is real but violence is not the answer. Hatred is not the answer. Hamas does not represent your legitimate desire for peace, justice and freedom.
The only way to achieve this is through dialogue and compromise.
To the Israeli people, I say this:
Know that you are not alone. Palm Beach County, the United States and the free world stand with you while we pray for the safe return of the hostages.
Enough!
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Last May, the White House launched the U.S. National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism, sending a clear, unequivocal message that antisemitism is a problem that affects all of society. AJC was proud to be part of developing this strategy, which employs a whole-of-society effort to address anti-Jewish hate.
To help various sectors of American society implement the recommendations put forth in the U.S. National Strategy, AJC has developed a series of guides. The guides build on AJC’s work supporting the White House in the drafting, amplifying, and implementing the National Strategy. They also complement the efforts of an AJC Task Force [ajc.org], composed of more than 50 AJC staff and three dozen leaders from across the country, to help ensure that the more than 200 recommendations in the strategy are carried out.
The guides include those for rabbis and congregations, state legislators, county officials, mayors, independent school administrators, higher education administrators, and members of Congress. All guides encourage using Translate Hate, an online glossary to help identify and understand antisemitism.
This initiative comes in the face of a growing recognition that antisemitism in the U.S. is a problem that must be urgently addressed. The latest AJC State of Antisemitism in America report found that 41% of American Jews feel less secure about their status in the U.S. than a year ago. Nine out of 10 American Jews believe antisemitism is a problem in the U.S. 82% believe it has worsened in the last five years, while four in 10 have altered their behavior in public to conceal their Jewish identity.
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From Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw | |
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In the wake of escalating global tensions and a disturbing rise in hate crimes, safeguarding our community’s peace and unity is paramount. Hence, I am augmenting our presence around temples, mosques, and other religious establishments to ensure the safety and well-being of all worshippers and residents.
Our unwavering mission at the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office is to maintain a peaceful and secure community. Our devoted deputies are on duty around the clock, endeavoring to sustain a harmonious atmosphere for every individual within Palm Beach County.
The importance of community vigilance cannot be stressed enough during these times. We strongly encourage our residents to embody the principle of “See Something, Say Something.” Your prompt reporting of any suspicious activity is crucial to our collective security and well-being.
Your eyes and ears are a vital extension of our law enforcement efforts. By standing united and promptly reporting concerns, we reinforce the safety net that keeps Palm Beach County a safe and welcoming haven for all.
Thank you for your ongoing vigilance and cooperation. Together, we create a resilient community that stands as a beacon of peace amidst the turmoil.
Stay safe,
Sheriff Ric Bradshaw
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Celebrations, anniversaries, meeting with agencies, advocating for health causes, recognizing community leaders, joining neighbors' festivities and going to neighborhood meetings, Mayor Weiss spends a lot of time in the community.
"As an elected official, I want to be part of the community I represent," said Mayor Weiss. "I want to understand the issues in my district, and that's why I spend many evenings attending events to listen and learn."
If you'd like to invite Mayor Weiss to your event, let us know.
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MAYOR STANDS WITH ISRAEL
On Tuesday, Oct. 10, Mayor Weiss and other local leaders gathered at the "We Stand with Israel" event organized by the Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County and the Stacey & Mark Levy Center for Israel & Overseas, hosted by the Palm Beach Synagogue. They expressed unwavering solidarity with the people of Israel during these trying times.
Rabbi Moshe Scheiner offered heartfelt prayers for the recovery of the injured and the safe release of hostages, taking a poignant moment to honor the lives lost in the recent horrific attack.
We extend our gratitude to everyone from various faiths and backgrounds who attended and contributed to this evening of solidarity and support. Together, we can make a difference.
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PBSO GROUNDBREAKING
On Tuesday, Oct. 10, Mayor Weiss spoke at a groundbreaking ceremony for the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office District 1 and Marine Unit facility in West Palm Beach.
The new 27,000-square-foot facility will include a fitness room, men’s and women’s locker and shower rooms, a large training room, breakroom, evidence room and open workspace with multiple conference rooms.
Electric generators will be installed onsite to ensure continuity of operations in the event of an emergency. The plans also include 98 vehicle and 22 boat and trailer parking stalls. Work areas for the Marine Unit will consist of three marine work bays, a boat wash station, a test tank and a covered exterior workspace.
The facility will be located at 785 North Jog Road, West Palm Beach. Construction is expected to be complete in February 2024.
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VISIT FROM THE AJC
Representatives from the American Jewish Committee (AJC) visited the office on Tuesday, Oct. 2, to present a Mayor’s Guide to Countering Antisemitism.
AJC’s guide is a helpful tool for eradicating antisemitism and all forms of hatred in our community. Visit the link to read the Mayor’s Guide to Countering Antisemitism.
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JUDGE AT A CHILI COOK-OFF COMPETITION
Mayor Weiss and his wife Rebecca had a great time at the West Palm Beach Elks Lodge #1352 annual chili cook-off competition! As judges, they both had the tough but oh-so-delicious job of sampling some of the best chicken and ribs around. It was a sticky task, but someone had to do it!
Outside was a car show, and the mayor took the opportunity to chat with car owners and fellow enthusiasts. It's always great to connect with the community, especially when it's in support of a wonderful cause.
The Elks invest in their communities through programs that promote the health and well-being of children, support our veterans, and enhance overall quality of life.
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MOBILITY WEEK
At the Board of County Commissioners meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 3, Mayor Weiss presented a proclamation declaring Oct. 27 to Nov. 4, 2023, as Mobility Week in Palm Beach County.
Mobility Week is an ideal time for highlighting achievements, introducing new initiatives and implementing new policies promoting sustainable transportation. Palm Tran Public Transportation provides approximately 28,000 rides a day. Everyone can ride free for a day during Mobility Week using the promo code “Mobility2023” in the Paradise Pass app.
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HIV/AIDS AWARENESS DAY
At the Board of County Commissioners meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 3, Mayor Weiss presented a proclamation declaring Oct.15, 2023, as National Latinx HIV/AIDS Awareness Day in Palm Beach County. Palm Beach County has applied a status-neutral framework of HIV comprehensive support and care services to address the social determinants of health that create disparities in gay, bisexual, same-gender-loving and other identified men who have sex with men disproportionately impacted by HIV.
Together, we can strive to make Palm Beach County a place where new HIV infections are prevented, every person knows their status and all people with HIV have access to high-quality care and treatment free from stigma and discrimination.
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REPORT ON DISASTER MITIGATION
On Friday, Oct. 5, in Orlando, at the Large Urban County Caucus, Mayor Weiss provided brief remarks on the National Association of Counties’ efforts to build capacity for disaster mitigation.
He shared NACo’s newly released report, which offers a roadmap for defining, improving and sustaining local disaster resilience capacity and intergovernmental partners' roles in building resilience.
The mayor was part of this roundtable, along with other local elected officials, state and local resilience officers and federal agency officials who created the report.
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BOOK LAUNCH
On Tuesday, Oct. 2, Mayor Weiss was a special guest at Roger Shorr's book launch for "The Near Perfect Body." This book chronicles Roger's journey. The reception at his clubhouse in IBIS, West Palm Beach, was fun and lively. Over 100 people came out to support Roger. He surprised the mayor with a certificate of appreciation for his support. Thank you, Roger, for including Mayor Weiss in your celebration!
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COFFEE WITH A COP
On Wednesday, Oct. 4, at the "Coffee with a Cop" sponsored by the West Palm Beach Police Department, Mayor Weiss enjoyed a nice cup of joe and some wonderful conversations.
This event brought together the city’s officers, community leaders, and residents for a candid and engaging meet and greet. Moments like these strengthen the bonds between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
Thank you to the officers for their dedication!
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HISPANIC HERITAGE AWARDS
On Monday, Sept. 28, Mayor Weiss joined the School District of Palm Beach County, the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office and other county and city leaders for an award ceremony. The Florida Hispanic American Chamber Palm Beach & Broward Counties hosted The Hispanic Heritage Awards 2023, an event dedicated to "Celebrating our Hispanic Community Achievements."
The evening was about recognizing outstanding individuals in teaching, sports, business and student academy performance who've made significant contributions to our vibrant Hispanic community. Their achievements shine bright, and we're proud to honor them during this special month. Congratulations to all the winners!
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INSPIRING THE FUTURE AVIATORS
Palm Beach International Airport held a Careers in Aviation Day. This annual event at Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) is a testament to their commitment to preparing the next generation for success. Students from Suncoast Community High School, Boynton Beach Community High School and Atlantic Community High School came together to learn from aviation professionals about the diverse career paths available in this dynamic field.
The mayor’s message was clear: there are many exciting opportunities within the aviation industry, and we want these talented young individuals to thrive as professionals while staying close to home.
As a proud holder of a pilot's license, Mayor Weiss shared his enthusiasm for the skies and his belief in their potential to soar to great heights. He wished them "high skies" as they embark on their career journeys.
A special shoutout to Palm Tran for their invaluable support in transporting these students to and from the airport and to NetJet Aviation for hosting the welcoming ceremony. Let's continue to inspire and empower our future aviators, ensuring they have the knowledge and opportunities they need to take flight in the world of aviation.
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Ideas, suggestions, concerns?
Contact us!
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GREGG K. WEISS
Mayor
www.pbcgov.com/D2
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