Correspondence - Updated 3/18 — Alameda City Council, March 18, 2025

From: Eli Weisblum
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 1:41:02 PM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

Moreover, this proposal is not simply about cultural exchange. It is evident that the intent behind this initiative is to promote a one-sided narrative regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The BDS movement’s agenda to isolate Israel politically and economically threatens to exacerbate tensions within this community, diverting us from fostering genuine dialogue and understanding.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti-Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

Instead, it risks alienating members of our community who feel targeted by the political motivations behind this proposal.

Furthermore, the history of antisemitic incidents in our city underscores the importance of fostering an environment of safety and respect for all residents. Embracing a politically charged sister city relationship undermines that effort and can lead to increased division and hostility.

As an alternative, I urge you to consider seeking simultaneous sister city agreements with both Israeli and Palestinian compatible communities. This approach would demonstrate that Alameda values inclusivity and aims to promote peace and understanding among diverse cultures.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Sara Weisblum
From: Avi Peltz
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 1:31:16 PM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

There are numerous existing avenues for those in our community who wish to engage with Wadi Foquin or similar regions without utilizing the sister city framework. Establishing such a relationship does not align with our city’s values of inclusivity and community building. Instead, it risks alienating members of our community who feel targeted by the political motivations behind this proposal.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Avi Peltz
Los Angeles
CA 91401
Sent from my iPhone
March 18, 2025 Dear Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft and Councilmembers, In solidarity with the mission of Sister Cities International, to promote peace through mutual understanding,

respect

and

cooperation,

please

welcome

Wadi

Foquin

sister

city

Alameda.

You may be concerned that this relationship would show bias. There are only 6 U.S. cities that have sister

city

relationships

with

Palestinian

cities,

yet

there

are

than

50 U.S.

cities

with

sister

cities

Israel.

Alameda could be a leader in building understanding and acknowledging the humanity of West Bank residents.

Please acknowledge that violence and occupation harm everyone; let us seek understanding, not continual

war.

Please

approve

this

sister

city

proposal.

Sincerely, Laura Woodard Tenant Advocate
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft, Vice-Mayor Pryor and City Councilors Boller, Daysog and Jensen, I'm writing in support of 5-J, and the Memorandum of Understanding between Alameda and Wadi Foquin to become Sister Cities. The world needs more curiosity and I believe that is exactly what the Sister Cities concept fosters.

One cold December 24th in 2017, my wife and I stayed in the western outskirts of Bethlehem, just miles from Wadi Foquin. This region is stunning—beautiful rocky landscapes overlaid with a rich confluence of people, cultures and time. Past history is alive and present here. Layered together, it's complex.

As an atheist, I find my revelations through travel. Borders are fascinating concepts. They're often invisible lines that humans use to organize their world. From afar they are figments. Up close they become visceral. This border crossing surely was. I remember that night as we crossed between the wall between Israel and the Palestinian West Bank. Our Israeli taxi driver from Jerusalem had given many rides to passengers heading to the guest house that we were going to.

But the end of the road for him was the border wall; he'd never been on the other side. I asked him if he was ever curious to see; he gave me a paused shrug of complication.

This proposal is undoubtedly complicated because the region itself is conﬂicted. You're weighing perspectives from many Alamedans across a wide spectrum. Any decision will carry symbolic and political weight given the past and present circumstances.

But I believe that's exactly the point of the Sister Cities.

Not a political act of othering and separation, but of togetherness. President Eisenhower started America's sister city program in 1956, having witnessed war's horrors firsthand. He believed people-to-people connections would temper conflict—that local politics could seed better world politics.

In this proposal, you have a clear decade-long connection between interfaith groups in Alameda. Just last year this group hosted a talk at Twin Towers United Methodist Church and did the exact kind of people-to-people exchanges that the sister cities are supposed to spark. This connection also has the support of the international Sister Cities organization.

Wadi Foquin with a population of 1,300 is a town smaller than our high schools and would give us a new perspective.

Alameda's sister cities run the gamut tremendously. The Alameda Sister City Association colorfully notes, the relative physical size and population of our existing sisters is “wildly erratic” compared to Alameda–from Varazze, Italy (13,000 people) to Jiangyin, China (1.3 million). Yeongdong-gun, Korea is landlocked and agricultural. Interestingly, we no longer partner with Lidingö, Sweden—an affluent, family friendly island city bridged to Stockholm that mirrors Alameda in many ways. Even despite the lack of active connection between our town, it sparked my family to visit last summer after learning our mayor had pen-pals there during her childhood.

And that is the point of these sister cities; connections that spark curiosity.

Reading the letters on this issue from our Jewish friends in Alameda, I’m seeing concerns, including around safety. The City Council should engage with these points with curiosity, compassion and action. Israel / Palestine relations are complex. We are actively making it a local issue, and must not shy away from the equal complexities that it ripples in Alameda.

Yet, in creating this relationship with Wadi Foquin, Alameda would join only a handful of U.S. cities with sister city relationships in Palestine, helping to build people-to-people connections in a region that desperately needs more mutual understanding. I hope you will support this Memorandum of Understanding and embrace the opportunity to foster greater curiosity, empathy, and connection between our communities.

Thushan Amarasiriwardena
Alamedan, Santa Clara & Walnut
From: Jennifer Rakowski
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Tracy Jensen; Tony Daysog; Manager Manager; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; City Clerk Subject: [EXTERNAL] Consent calendar 5-J
Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 1:00:51 PM
I support the Wadi Foquin Sister City proposal included in the consent calendar for Mar. 18th.

At a time when the federal government is pulling away from international connections it feels like a great time to expand our successful sister city program. The city of Alameda and Wadi Foquin are a natural partnership that supports and afirms community connections that already exist.

I have appreciate community events that have included personal updates from Wadi Foquin. They has given me insights to the broader world and connections to neighbors here at home.

A sister city relationship with Wadi Foquin would not only enrich the cultural tapestry of Alameda but also create pathways for dialogue and cooperation on issues of mutual interest such as sustainable development, climate action and and humanitarian efforts. By sharing resources and ideas, we can cultivate a deeper understanding of our respective histories and challenges, while celebrating the unique contributions each community brings.

This is a great time to build bridges by welcoming in a new sister city.

Jennifer Rakowski
From: Shoshana Horin
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 12:47:46 PM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Shoshana Ben-Horin
Sent from my iPhone
March 18, 2025
Dear Mayor Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft, Vice Mayor Michele Pryor, Councilmember Greg Boller, Councilmember Tony Daysog, and Councilmember Tracy Jensen, I am writing to encourage you to approve of the proposal to make oﬃcial the sister city relationship between Alameda, CA and Wadi Foquin in Palestine.

I can say, as the co-founder and current board president of the Boulder-Nablus Sister City Project, that this relationship between Boulder and Palestine has contributed enormously to our community being more inclusive and accepting of diversity than previously.

Many of the people who were initially opposed to the idea were concerned that our efforts would somehow be divisive in the community. I am delighted to share with you that a signiﬁcant percentage of our membership and volunteers are Jewish. And Muslim, Christian, Buddhist, and others — our work has brought people together across religious, ethnic, and cultural identities in a beautiful way. I suspect the same is true and will be true in Alameda.

Another concern we heard was about the political nature of sistering with Palestine.

You will need to distinguish between political realities (that all sister cities are faced with) and political advocacy — as long as a sister city relationship is not advocating for political outcomes - there ought be no issues with political realities.

Lastly I know that there were members of our community who expressed concern about the one-sided nature of a sister city relationship — and indeed that’s the whole point - to share one people and culture with another people and culture.

That’s why we create sister cities in the ﬁrst place — we want people in our community to learn about the unique people and culture of Palestine who are both Arab and largely Muslim - people who offer a unique perspective and deepen our understanding — that’s how we grow as members of the global community.

Further, I wish to add that our relationship that launched in 2013 has built dozens of beautiful relationships across the oceans that have enriched our community — I encourage you to create the same opportunity for Alameda - you will not regret it! Sincerely yours,
Essrea Cherin
Board President
www.bouldernablus.org
+1.303.506.7889
[email protected]
4500 19th Street, #435
Boulder, CO 80304
USA

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·
·
·

Boulder City Council
1777 Broadway St.

Boulder, CO 80302

7 December 2016

Honorable Members of Boulder City Council,

Thank you for the opportunity to provide Sister Cities International’s perspective on this important resolution facing the council. My name is Adam Kaplan and I am Vice President of Sister Cities International, the national association of sister city programs representing over 560 U.S. communities with more than 2,300 partnerships in 150 countries. We were founded in 1956 by President Eisenhower to promote peace through mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation— one individual, one community at a time, and while we are a nonpartisan nonprofit, we are also a traditional partner of the U.S. State Department.

Sister city exchanges, and the sister cities model in general, are predicated on a few simple yet powerful precepts: that peace is built through mutual respect, open communication, cooperation, and long-term engagement—one individual, one community at a time, and that communication is necessary because of our differences, not in spite of them. In traditional diplomacy countries present policies or viewpoints that are the formal position of the national government; in citizen diplomacy we recognize that all societies are composed of a mosaic of views across a spectrum, and that engagement with all parts of society is needed to build understanding and trust.

I would like to take this opportunity to clarify a few characteristics regarding sister city relationships. Some have expressed concern that Nablus does not share the same progressive values as Boulder. I would like to emphasize that a sister city relationship is not, and has never been, an explicit or implicit endorsements of the laws, values, ethics, or cultural practices of another community. In fact, throughout SCI’s 60 year history, its greatest achievements are usually with countries with whom we have had the greatest differences, from Germany and Japan to China and the Soviet Union to Iraq and Afghanistan. Given the breadth and depth of differences between communities, if this standard of “shared values” was a prerequisite for sister city relationships then we would still be waiting for our first partnership. Indeed, if this standard were applied by other countries to the U.S., we might find that some of our own laws and practices would make us “unmatchable” in dozens of countries around the world.

I will not deny the valid issues raised by some related to mistreatment of LGBTQ residents and women in Nablus. But if citizens in Boulder are truly concerned about the welfare of these people, they should understand that cultural changes come about by engaging a community, not by isolating it. To tell women or the LGBTQ community in Nablus that you cannot form a relationship with their city because they are being mistreated would seem only to add insult to injury.

I am aware that Boulder’s Resolution 631 requires a sister city to be based on “some common interests and characteristics important to both Boulder and the sister city,” which I believe the activities of BNSCP have adequately proven. I would note that no community will share all interests and characteristics of Boulder, and the areas where BNSCP has focused—youth, education, and the arts—are indeed shared by both of your communities.

Lastly, some have suggested that the BNSCP could continue with its activities without formally establishing a sister city relationship. I believe this would be a grave mistake, and would actually run counter to the interests of those that propose such a scenario. The sister cities movement is in its 60th year, and has well-established principles which guide activities across all sectors. These values include a commitment to peace, a collaborative approach to engagement, a pursuit of mutual respect and understanding, a long-term commitment between communities, and a dedication to

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providing an inclusive approach both at home and abroad. By having BNSCP inducted into this framework, they will be more accountable to living up to the values and standards that have made sister cities so well-respected around the world. In fact, one could argue that the fears expressed by those opposed to BNSCP—that it will become overly politicized, and that it will be divisive within Boulder—are less likely to occur if they are held to the standards of sister city relationships.

For these reasons, on behalf of Sister Cities International, I would stress that we have no objection to the establishment of a sister city relationship between Boulder and Nablus, with BNSCP as the group initially managing the relationship.

I would also like to add something of a personal nature. In recent years I’ve watched in horror as both anti-Semitism and Islamophobia have seemed to spread throughout the world, and how in many places, including the U.S., they are now openly expressed without reservation. As the grandson of Jewish immigrants who fled the pogroms in Eastern Europe, as well as the godson of a Palestinian man from Jenin, both of these scourges weigh heavily on me. I count myself incredibly fortunate to have grown up in a family where the biggest arguments between a Jew and a Palestinian were about who had the honor of paying the dinner bill. Watching my father, Fred, and his best friend, Wasif, taught me much about the foundations of peace and friendship.

The idea that issues between Jews and Muslims are insurmountable, or that change must come before engagement, rather than as a result of it, is both cynical and counterproductive. I have had the fortune to travel to both Israel as well as the West Bank, including Nablus, and in both places I was treated with respect and kindness, and given a level of hospitality that I often wish we could emulate here in the U.S. In both places the acrimony that Israelis and Palestinians feel towards one another was in no way extended to U.S. visitors. My personal experience was that my Jewish heritage was not an issue for those I met in the West Bank, and as a guest Palestinians felt obligated to treat me with respect and ensure that I was both safe and comfortable throughout my visit. I would also add that the Palestinians I met felt extremely isolated, and were eager for any sort of engagement with people in the U.S.

I sincerely hope that the Boulder City Council will approve this relationship and take a brave step towards promoting peace and understanding. In today’s world such voices are desperately needed.

Sincerely,

Adam Kaplan
Vice President, Sister Cities International

Cc: Heidi Leatherwood, Assistant City Clerk

From: Shoshana Horin
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 12:47:46 PM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Shoshana Ben-Horin
Sent from my iPhone
From: alst22
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 12:03:21 PM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Sent from my iPhone
From: Marta Rubenstein Harmon
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 12:01:14 PM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Marta Rubenstein Harmon
[email protected]
(818) 590.9671
From: [email protected]
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please read reg sister city
Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 11:54:25 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Deby Plaza
94803
Sent from my iPhone
From: bjmpal
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 11:47:38 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Barbara Markowitz
Sent from my iPhone
From: Barak Salakoff
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 11:34:08 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Sent from my iPhone
From: Michelle Gellman
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 11:32:03 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Michelle Gee
Sent from my iPhone
From: Jay Libman
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 11:23:30 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Sent from my iPhone
From: zena vaynblat
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 11:21:50 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Sent from my iPhone
From: Debra Barach
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 11:16:56 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Debra Schaffer MD ( 90024)
Sent from my iPhone
Anna Piller,
Alameda

Resident
March 18, 2025 Dear Mayor Ashcraft, Vice Mayor Pryor, Councilmember Boller, Councilmember Daysog,

and

Councilmember

Jensen,
As a Jewish Alamedan and the granddaughter of Holocaust survivors, I want to express

strong

support

for

sister

city

relationship

with

Wadi

Foquin.

My two daughters attend Otis Elementary and also go to Hebrew school every week

our

synagogue.

I can’t imagine a more meaningful opportunity for my family to build understanding and

connection

with

people

they

would

never

otherwise

have

the

opportunity

relate

to.

This

would

gift

for

kids

that

never

had

child.

Please do not let anyone tell you that learning about a Palestinian village, and them learning

about

us,

makes

Jews

less

safe.

world

which

Jews

and

Palestinians

are

segregated

from

each

other

not

safer

world

for

children.

Building

compassion

and

care

makes

everyone

safer

and

builds

toward

just

world

for

all

our

children.

Thank you so much for your consideration. Kindly, Anna Piller Alameda resident – and registered voter From: Nussbaum, Amanda H.

To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 11:09:11 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18.

This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Amanda Laifer
****************************************************************************************************************************************************** This message and its attachments are sent from a law firm and may contain information that is confidential and protected by privilege from disclosure.

If you are not the intended recipient, you are prohibited from printing, copying, forwarding or saving them.

Please delete the message and attachments without printing, copying, forwarding or saving them, and notify the sender immediately. ****************************************************************************************************************************************************** From: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft
To: Lara Weisiger; Sarah Henry; Jennifer Ott
Subject: Fw: [EXTERNAL] Support for Sister City Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 11:06:10 AM
Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft
Mayor, City of Alameda
510-747-4745
From: Julie Casey <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 10:36 AM
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Support for Sister City Wadi Foquin

Dear Mayor Ashcraft,
I woke up to news alerts on my phone that there were more Israeli air strikes on Gaza. I am deeply saddened by the continued conflict and the loss of so many Palestinian lives. I am thankful that the Wadi Foquin Sister City proposal is included in the consent calendar for Mar. 18th. There is no better time for our city to show our support for the Palestinian people.

I understand that supporting Palestine and aligning our city with Wadi Foquin is complicated, but often the things that are the hardest to do are the most important to do. I sincerely hope this agenda item is not swept aside tonight and you approve this partnership.

I have two young girls, one almost in Preschool and a first grader at Franklin Elementary. I took them to the reading of Homeland: My Father Dreams of Palestine that the library held last year and they were touched by the story. I would very much like to tell them that we have a sister city in Palestine.

Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to celebrating our newest Sister City relationship with you on the 18th.

Sincerely,
Julie A Casey.

Alameda Resident
From: Gordon Williams
To: CityCouncil-List
Cc: City Clerk; Transportation
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Urging City Council to Withhold Endorsement of Item 7B – Gibbons Drive Closure Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 10:52:35 AM
Dear Honorable Mayor Ashcraft and Members of the Alameda City Council, I am writing to strongly urge you not to endorse the proposed design concept for the Fernside Traffic Calming and Bikeways Project (Item 7B on tonight’s agenda) until a full traffic study is conducted. While I appreciate the City’s commitment to improving pedestrian and cyclist safety, the proposal to close eastbound traffic from Gibbons Drive onto High Street is premature and lacks critical data on how it will impact surrounding streets.

The plan, as proposed, does not eliminate traffic—it simply shifts it. Without a proper traffic study, the City risks pushing cut-through traffic onto smaller, narrower streets like Cornell Drive, Bayo Vista Ave, and Yale Drive, which are not designed to handle increased vehicle volume or speeds. The City’s own supplemental memo acknowledges that these impacts have not been studied, yet the Council is being asked to endorse a design that could create new safety hazards elsewhere.

Rather than endorsing a closure with unknown consequences, the City should prioritize a comprehensive, data-driven approach that considers all affected streets. Speed humps or other traffic-calming measures on Gibbons Drive could achieve the same safety goals without forcing traffic onto streets that are even less equipped to handle it.

I urge you not to endorse this proposal until a full traffic study is completed and alternative solutions are explored. Rushing to endorse this concept now, without data, would be a mistake that could have unintended consequences for the entire neighborhood.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
Gordon Williams
Alameda Resident
3100 Block of Bayo Vista Ave
From: Emazer
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 10:51:24 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Edward H. Mazer
Sent from my iPhone
From: Stephen Siegel
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 10:51:09 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Steve Siegel
314-550-5095
From: Tanya Jacobi
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 10:33:12 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Sent from my iPhone
From: Rena Etkin
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 10:29:50 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Rena Etkin
Sent from my IPhone
From: Mia Kirschner-Egelberg
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 10:28:27 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Mia Egelberg
Cell 914-629-2794
Home 914-833-9204
From: Wendy Freed
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 10:28:25 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Wendy Freed MD
Sent from my iPhone
Dear City Council Members, I saw that the Wadi Foquin Sister City proposal is included in the consent calendar for today,

Mar.

18th,

and

writing

with

support.

I believe that a Sister City partnership with Wadi Foquin enables us to build the very kind of

relationships

people

that

are

needed

this

critical

time,

particularly

promote

peace

and

further

understanding.

think

there

are

many

misconceptions

about

Palestine

and

the

Palestinian

people,

and

that

engaging

directly

with

them

has

the

potential

foster

authentic

understanding

and

cross-cultural

exchange.

have

not

seen

many

opportunities

for

Alamedans

connect

with

Palestinians

directly

and

think

this

opportunity

that

should

not

passed

up.

Thank you for your consideration, and I look forward to celebrating our newest Sister City relationship

with

you!
Sincerely, Alison Traina Alameda Resident
Hello City Council, I currently stay in Alameda and I steward land as an ecorestoration gardener here on the island and in the East Bay. I acknowledge the land that we meet on today is the unceded territory of the Lisjan Ohlone people. This evening I am here to express my support of designating Alameda and Wadi Foquin as Sister Cities. This type of coming together in peaceful community that fosters cultural exchange and supportive presence can bridge gaps across the global community. I think linking people with people across cultures is important work especially as the national rhetoric and actions here and abroad continue to descend into further division and devastation. I first heard of Wadi Foquin at an event I attended held by Friends of Wadi Foquin this past year. People shared their experiences of what it is like living in this village in the West Bank. By showing up and listening, I was able to step into an opportunity to hear the stories and understand more deeply the challenging circumstances that people are currently facing. Michael Yoshi’s interview, recently posted on the Island City Beat Podcast, as well as his recent report back from the protective presence trip he and a handful of others went on this past January, have helped to expand my understanding and respect for the people living in this village in the West Bank and it has fostered an interest in wanting to learn more about the cultures of the region and the ways people are furthering opportunities for connectedness and learning. These events have helped to reveal the humanity of people in a place I generally only hear about in the news or through the perspectives of friends and colleagues. This real connection sheds light on what life is like right now for some folks living in the West Bank. I see this as a very important step forward that Alameda can take in the long-term process of peace. Thank you and I encourage you to make this Sister City designation to further support the connection between these two communities. Naomi Vinbury Dear Friends at the Alameda City Council,

I was so encouraged to hear that today Alameda's City Council will consider naming Wadi Foquin as a sister city. This would be an historic decision for the recognition of "everyday" Palestinian villagers who are just trying to survive in a toxic and violent political environment. Being a sister city will provide a avenue for a positive, person-to-person relationship based on human values of understanding and cooperation -- and peace.

I have visited Wadi Foquin in the past, and count several of its inhabitants friends. They are longing for signs of hope, as their land and lives are diminished daily. Your action will make a huge difference. I hope that you will consider this proposal with your hearts and minds.

Although I am not a resident of Alameda, I believe your positive action will encourage my home, Oakland, to move forward with its support of the Palestinian people after your example.

Thank you,

Naomi Southard

From: Maria Piper
To: City Clerk; CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Support for Agenda Item 5-J – Sister City Relationship with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 10:22:15 AM
Dear Mayor and City Council Members,
I am writing to express my strong support for Agenda Item 5-J, the adoption of a resolution authorizing the Mayor to sign a Memorandum of Understanding regarding the formulation and implementation of sister city relations between the Village of Wadi Foquin, Palestinian Territories, and the City of Alameda.

At a time when global divisions are growing, it is more important than ever to foster relationships that promote peace, cultural understanding, and mutual respect. A sister city partnership with Wadi Foquin offers Alameda a unique opportunity to engage in meaningful people-to-people diplomacy, creating avenues for shared learning, cultural exchange, and community building. This is an opportunity for us to demonstrate our commitment to international friendship and cooperation, strengthening ties between our local community and the people of Palestine.

Sister Cities International has long recognized the power of these relationships to build peace, especially in regions of great geopolitical importance. Their work, in partnership with the U.S.

Department of State, has shown that such initiatives are not only beneficial for cultural exchange but also serve as vital platforms for grassroots diplomacy. As they have noted, while Palestinian sister cities are limited in number, they are deeply committed to collaboration and eager to expand people-to-people connections with U.S. citizens. The hospitality and enthusiasm demonstrated by Palestinian communities underscore the importance of such engagements in building bridges across cultures.

By supporting this resolution, Alameda can be a leader in fostering international goodwill and demonstrating that diplomacy and understanding begin at the community level. Our city has a long history of inclusivity and civic engagement, and this partnership would further our tradition of reaching out in the spirit of global unity and shared humanity.

I urge you to vote in favor of this resolution and affirm Alameda’s dedication to international friendship and cultural exchange. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
Maria Piper
From: RB
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 10:15:49 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns for the Alameda community.

Firstly, Wadi Foquin is a village with approximately 1,300 residents and limited infrastructure. This starkly contrasts with Alameda’s sister city guidelines, that emphasize compatibility in population size, geography, and especially civic goals.

The intent behind this initiative is to promote a one-sided narrative regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The BDS movement’s agenda is to isolate Israel politically and economically, and threatens to exacerbate tensions by diverting us from fostering genuine dialogue and understanding about historical realities and diminishes the attacks of October 7, 2023, from which the Israeli public and Jews world wide are still reeling. And suffering.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential is for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices. It raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

Establishing such a relationship does not align with the city’s values of inclusivity and community building. It risks alienating members of the community who feel targeted by the political motivations behind this proposal, which are making themselves felt around the world.

Furthermore, the history of antisemitic incidents in the city underscores the importance of emphasizing an environment of safety and respect for all residents. Embracing a politically charged sister city relationship undermines that effort and can lead to increased division and hostility.

As an alternative, please consider seeking simultaneous sister city agreements with both Israeli and Palestinian compatible communities. This approach would demonstrate that Alameda values inclusivity and aims to promote peace and understanding among diverse cultures, instead of buying into impulsive, unresearched alliances.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect for the actual history and aspirations of the all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
R.F. Berliner
From: JOHN ERIC BERGMAN
To: CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Re: I support Wadi Foquin as a Sister City with Alameda.

Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 10:07:32 AM
Hello, city council members.

I live in Alameda, and I support the proposal in the email below. This is congruent with the Jewish teachings in Isaiah 54:8, Zachariah 7:10, Proverb 15:1, and Leviticus 19:33, 34.

Congruent with such Jewish teachings, I support decent living conditions for all people. This includes people who are different from me in terms of nationality, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, social class, economic class, etc.

Also, I’m active in local Jewish congregations including an Orthodox congregation. I’m additionally the chairperson of the Alameda County chapter of a political party with ballot status.

Thank you for your consideration,
Yochanan Bergman
On Mar 14, 2025, at 12:18 PM, JCRC <[email protected]> wrote:

Dear Eric,
On Tuesday, March 18, the Alameda City Council will vote on a proposal to establish a sister city relationship with Wadi Foquin, a small village in the West Bank. This initiative is being led by BDS proponents who will use this relationship to promote division and one-sided narratives about Israel.

This proposal is not about cultural exchange and Wadi Foquin is not a compatible sister city for Alameda. It is a village of approximately 1,300 people with limited infrastructure and capacity, which does not meet Alameda’s own sister city guidelines that require compatibility in areas such as population size, geography, industries, or shared civic goals.

For Alameda residents who wish to engage with Wadi Foquin, there are already existing organizations to do so. Join us in reminding the Alameda City Council that sister city designation is not an appropriate vehicle for advocacy or political messaging and will only serve to deepen divisions in our community.

How You Can Act:

Write to City Council Members: Click here to email all your City Council members at once.

Attend the City Council Meeting: Join us on Tuesday, March 18 at 7pm to attend the council meeting and speak out in opposition – Agenda & Links Please follow our Guidance for Public Comments for both written and spoken comments.

Together, we can make a difference and ensure that Alameda remains a welcoming community for all.

Sincerely,
Team JCRC

From: janice brenner
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 10:03:07 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Janice Farber
Sent from my iPhone
Islamic Center of Alameda
3/17/2025, Dear Alameda City Council Members We are so excited that the Wadi Foquin Sister City proposal is included in the consent calendar for Mar. 18th! We believe that Wadi Foquin enables Alameda to build the very kind of relationships - people to people - that are needed at this critical time, particularly to promote peace and further understanding. We are excitement as a city to extend our support for Wadi Foquin as a Sister City. So, we can communicate to local Palestinian, Arab, Muslim community and build relationships essential during the current political times. Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to celebrating our newest Sister City relationship with you on the 18th. Sincerely, Imam From: Rita Zeltsman Kulick
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 9:57:53 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

Instead, it risks alienating members of our community who feel targeted by the political motivations behind this proposal.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Rita Zeltsman-Kulick, Ph.D.

ESE Experience Success in English LTD, CEO.

EFL Sound Reading System IL
EFL Literacy and Learning Disabilities Specialist
www.ESEwithRita.co.il

050-5958243
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
The Kibbutzim College
[email protected]
www.smkb.ac.il
From: Naomi Nemirov
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 9:51:54 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

Instead, it risks alienating members of our community who feel targeted by the political motivations behind this proposal.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
S.Nemirov
Sent from my Huawei phone
From: Ravid Haselkorn-Galatin
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 9:36:56 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Ravid Haselkorn
From: Marilyn Rothman
To: CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Sister City Wadi Foquin
Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 9:29:52 AM
As a 50+ year resident homeowner and Jewish person, I am quite excited at the prospect of a West Bank city becoming our sister city. This would promote peace and further understanding at this critical time.

Thank you,
Marilyn Rothman
From: [email protected]
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 9:28:07 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Jerilyn Rogin
From: Julie Schwarz
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 9:24:49 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Julie B Schwarz
Sent from my iPhone
From: Michelle Kletter
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 9:22:54 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Michelle Kletter
Sent from my iPhone
From: Patricia Daugherty
To: CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Approve Wadi Foquin as Sister to Alameda Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 9:16:59 AM
Attachments: Support Wadi Foquin Sister to Alameda.pdf
Dear Mayor Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft, Vice Mayor Michele Pryor, Councilmember Greg Boller, Councilmember Tony Daysog, and Councilmember Tracy Jensen, Please find the attached letter in support of approving Wadi Foquin as a sister city with Alameda.

Patricia Daugherty, co-founder
SacramentoBethlehem Sister City
--
Patricia Daugherty
916.225.8511
From: Orlee Hauser
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 9:14:30 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

Instead, it risks alienating members of our community who feel targeted by the political motivations behind this proposal.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Dr. Orlee Hauser
Get Outlook for iOS
From: Eileen Wohlgelernter
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 9:10:22 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Ewohlgelernter
Sent from my iPhone
From: Glynis Gerber
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 9:10:15 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

Instead, it risks alienating members of our community who feel targeted by the political motivations behind this proposal.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Glynis Gerber |Gerber & Co LLP, CPAs
1880 Century Park East, Suite 200 | Los Angeles, CA 90067 310.552.1600 Main| 310.432.4372 Direct & Text | 310.552.1626 Fax Beyond Beancounting®
www.GerberCo.com
From: Ariel
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposed to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 9:09:58 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

Instead, it risks alienating members of our community who feel targeted by the political motivations behind this proposal.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Ariel Shostak
From: Debra Abittan
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 9:03:14 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Debra abittan
Sent from my iPhone
From: Michael Armetta
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 8:48:43 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Janet Armetta
Let My People Go!
From: Elana Samson
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 8:48:07 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Elana Samson
Sent from my iPhone
From: Ann Stack
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 8:46:48 AM
Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
Think about long-term ramifications, exclusion of the Jewish community, and history already starting to repeat itself when you read this. I am writing to express my STRONG opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among ALL members of the community.

Voting for this is a trip Backward Land. It’s astonishing how American small towns are allowing themselves to be infiltrated by supporting terrorism in sheep’s clothing You’re all bright enough to do the right thing; I voted for most of you. Don’t succumb to TikTok induced-leaning- so-far-left-it’s-now-right tactics. Thank you for your attention to this important matter; the future of western civilization thanks you. For real.

Respectfully,
Ann Bloxberg
A 20-year Alameda resident
Sent from my iPhone
From: Aliza Bulow from Core
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 8:41:59 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

Instead, it risks alienating members of our community who feel targeted by the political motivations behind this proposal.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Aliza Bulow
From: David Berman
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 8:41:43 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
David H. Berman, MD FACS
Sent from my iPhone
From: Bruce Bukiet
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 8:28:36 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Bruce Bukiet
A day without math is like a day without sunshine.

From: Amy Wolnerman
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 8:24:24 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Amy Wolnerman
Sent from my iPhone
From: Moshe Moran
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 8:13:08 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Best Regards,
Moshe
Sent from my Mobile Device
From: Scott Hamilton
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 8:06:24 AM
Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Scott Hamilton
From: orit kimmel
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 8:05:52 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

Instead, it risks alienating members of our community who feel targeted by the political motivations behind this proposal.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Orit Kimmel
1908 Clinton Avenue
Alameda
From: Chava Kleinman
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 8:04:42 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

Instead, it risks alienating members of our community who feel targeted by the political motivations behind this proposal.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Chava Kleinman
English Teacher
(058) 607-0550
From: Esther Levy
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 8:02:34 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Esther Levy
Sent from my iPhone
From: Monise Neumann
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 8:02:24 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
E Lee
Sent from my iPhone
Sent from my iPhone
From: Scott Hamilton
To: CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Sister city vote
Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 7:59:04 AM
Dear Mayor Ashcroft and Alameda City Council Members,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin. While sister city programs should foster cultural exchange and mutual enrichment, this initiative is being led by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement, which seeks to promote a one-sided and divisive narrative about Israel rather than fostering genuine cross-cultural engagement.

Wadi Foquin does not meet Alameda’s own sister city guidelines, which emphasize compatibility in key areas such as population size, geography, industries, and shared civic goals. With a population of approximately 1,300 and limited infrastructure, Wadi Foquin lacks the characteristics that would make it a meaningful or appropriate partner for Alameda.

Instead of strengthening our community ties, this partnership would inject unnecessary political controversy into a program meant to bring people together.

For Alameda residents who wish to engage with Wadi Foquin, there are already existing organizations that facilitate such interactions. However, designating Wadi Foquin as a sister city would send a politicized message rather than fostering the type of constructive international relationships that sister city programs are intended to create.

I urge you to reject this proposal and uphold the integrity of Alameda’s sister city program by ensuring it remains a vehicle for genuine cultural exchange, not political advocacy.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
Scott Hamilton
94501
From: Irene Stein
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 7:52:32 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Sent from my iPhone
From: Shelli Smith
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 7:52:28 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Shelli StallSmith
Sent from my iPhone
From: Laurie Alsberg
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 7:48:11 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Laurie Alsberg
Sent from my iPhone
From:עניס ותמי דודי
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 7:48:08 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

Instead, it risks alienating members of our community who feel targeted by the political motivations behind this proposal.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully, Tami Enis
From: [email protected]
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 7:47:54 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Nor Silber
From: Ilene Haym
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 7:45:46 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Ilene B Haym
Boynton Beach FL
From: Leanne
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Alameda sanctuary city for terrorist Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 7:42:51 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Sent from my iPhone
From: colleen.mitchneck
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 7:38:54 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

Instead, it risks alienating members of our community who feel targeted by the political motivations behind this proposal.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Colleen Mitchneck
From: Evan Kottler
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 7:33:29 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Sent from my iPhone
From: Susie Berg
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 7:28:29 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Susie Berg
Sent from my iPhone
From: Daniel Goldstein
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 7:16:55 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Dan Goldstein
Send from my iPhone
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From: Lisa Becker
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 7:13:27 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Lisa Becker
Sent from my iPhone
From: Glynis Gerber
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 7:12:14 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

Instead, it risks alienating members of our community who feel targeted by the political motivations behind this proposal.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Glynis Gerber
Glynis Gerber |Gerber & Co LLP, CPAs
1880 Century Park East, Suite 200 | Los Angeles, CA 90067 310.552.1600 Main| 310.432.4372 Direct & Text | 310.552.1626 Fax Beyond Beancounting®
www.GerberCo.com
From: Judith Mann
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 7:08:32 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Judith Mann
Sent from my iPhone
From: Elizabeth Edelman
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 7:08:11 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Liz Edelman
Sent from my iPhone
From: [email protected]
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 7:01:11 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Shani Nissel
Sent from my iPhone
From: Mara Weiner
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 6:59:33 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Sent from my iPhone
From: Esther Klausner
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 6:51:49 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
E. Klausner
Sent from my iPhone
From: Sonia Gordon-Walinsky
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 6:47:16 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
S. Gordon
From: Helene Singer
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 6:45:42 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Lenie Singer
Sent from my iPhone
From: Cheryl Cohen
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin biased Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 6:41:39 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Sent from my iPhone
From: Adam Theriault
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 6:39:42 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Adam G. Theriault
m: 917-846-6748
From: Leah Lieberman
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 6:37:45 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Leah Lieberman
Sent from my iPhone
From: [email protected]
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 6:33:30 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Jill W Sandberg
Sent from my iPhone
From: Marsha Richman
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 6:31:55 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Sent from my iPhone
From: Abram Blacher
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 6:25:33 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Abram Blacher
Sent from my iPhone
From: Vickie Brodersen
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 6:21:59 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Vickie Brodersen
773-317-2370
Sent from my iPhone
From: Uri & Iris Kirshenbaum
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 6:20:05 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

Moreover, this proposal is not simply about cultural exchange. It is evident that the intent behind this initiative is to promote a one-sided narrative regarding the Israeli- Palestinian conflict. The BDS movement’s agenda to isolate Israel politically and economically threatens to exacerbate tensions within this community, diverting us from fostering genuine dialogue and understanding.

There are numerous existing avenues for those in our community who wish to engage with Wadi Foquin or similar regions without utilizing the sister city framework.

Furthermore, the history of antisemitic incidents in our city underscores the importance of fostering an environment of safety and respect for all residents.

Embracing a politically charged sister city relationship undermines that effort and can lead to increased division and hostility.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
- Iris K.

From: TaknPat Yamamoto
To: CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Wadi Foquin sister city
Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 6:19:37 AM
We ask that you support the proposed sister city relationship with the Village of Wadi Foquin.

It will be such a great opportunity to get to know the wonderful people of the village. We have visited the village, been hosted by a family, have met people from the village who have come to the Bay Area. It would give the young people of Alameda, as well as adults, to engage with their age mates, talking about activities, especially soccer -- they have a nice soccer field for their youth built by assistance from Friends of Wadi Foquin and other international assistance. It will be a wonderful way to get to know people of another culture.

Please vote "Yes" to having a Sister City relationship with Wadi Foquin.

Takeshi and Patricia Yamamoto
From: [email protected]
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Re: Wadi Foquin Proposal
Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 6:18:09 AM
Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
As hate-motivated attacks and inflammatory rhetoric reach new and destructive levels across our nation, the need to confront such heinous acts is more visibly necessary than ever. Concerning this, I am writing to express my strong opposition to the ungainly proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

More importantly, this proposal is not simply about cultural exchange; it is evident that the intent behind this initiative is to promote a one-sided narrative regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The BDS movement’s agenda to isolate Israel politically and economically threatens to exacerbate tensions within this community, diverting us from fostering genuine dialogue and understanding.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

Further, the history of antisemitic incidents in our city underscores the importance of fostering an environment of safety and respect for all residents. Embracing a politically charged sister city relationship undermines that effort and can lead to increased division and hostility.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Ben Schubert
From: William Boggess
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 6:13:26 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Bill
From: zena vaynblat
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal w Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 6:12:08 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Sent from my iPhone
From: [email protected]
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 6:11:49 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Rachel Molasky
From: heather behr
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 6:07:24 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Sent from my iPhone
From: Sid Lambersky
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 6:07:17 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Sid Lambersky
[email protected]
801-441-9351
Fighting hate for good.

From: Bonnie Budman
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 6:02:39 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Sent from my iPhone
From: Irina E
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 5:54:58 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Irina Eizner
Sent from my iPhone
From: Rick Lobel
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 5:54:33 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

Instead, it risks alienating members of our community who feel targeted by the political motivations behind this proposal.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Richard Lobel
Datel
From: Fried, Sholom
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 5:51:30 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Sholom Fried
Woodmere, NY
Sent from my iPhone
From: Noah Gitig
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 5:47:10 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Sent from my iPhone
From: Leslie Silver
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 5:44:41 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

Instead, it risks alienating members of our community who feel targeted by the political motivations behind this proposal.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Leslie S.

Fine Wines, Sales Manager
Palm Bay International
917-520-9438
From: Liz Glass
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 5:44:39 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Liz Glass
Sent from my iPhone
From: Carla
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 5:43:27 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

Instead, it risks alienating members of our community who feel targeted by the political motivations behind this proposal.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Carla Giauque

From: Jacob Weichholz
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 5:43:14 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

Instead, it risks alienating members of our community who feel targeted by the political motivations behind this proposal.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Jake
Jacob Weichholz, CPA, MBA | Bio
Principal
D (212) 829 3268
M (516) 317 2525
[email protected]
Book a meeting with me!!

From: Elyse Tish
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 5:43:05 AM
Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Elyse Tish
From: Home Email
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 5:41:41 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

Instead, it risks alienating members of our community who feel targeted by the political motivations behind this proposal.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Mina Friedler
Bring Them Home
From: [email protected]
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Important Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 5:29:22 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Stacey Radinsky
Sent from my iPhone
From: Charles Brumer
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 5:24:03 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully, Charles Brumer
Sent from my iPhone
From: Dr. John Herzenberg
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 5:21:00 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

Instead, it risks alienating members of our community who feel targeted by the political motivations behind this proposal.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
John E. Herzenberg, MD, FRCSC, FAAOS
Emeritus Faculty
International Center for Limb Lengthening
Clinical Professor, University of Maryland
Rubin Institute for Advanced Orthopedics
Sinai Hospital of Baltimore
2401 West Belvedere Avenue
Baltimore, Maryland
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE This e-mail transmission, and any documents, files, or previous e-mail messages attached to it, may contain information that is confidential. If you are not the intended recipient, or a person responsible for delivering it to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that you must not read this transmission and that any disclosure, copying, printing, distribution or use of any of the information contained in or attached to this transmission is STRICTLY PROHIBITED! If you have received this transmission in error, please immediately notify the sender by telephone or return e-mail and delete the original transmission and its attachments without reading or saving in any manner.

From: Rose
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Strong Opposition
Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 5:14:59 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Rose Sharon
Sent from my iPhone
From: GR
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 5:13:17 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the vile Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Respectfully,
Gerry Robinson
From: Jeremy Friedman
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 5:10:42 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
From: Judy Varon
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 5:09:28 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Judy Varon
From: hjf hjf
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 5:07:14 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Sent from my iPhone
From: [email protected]
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 5:07:13 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Karen Brenner
From: [email protected]
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 5:05:30 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Michele Miller
From: Dana Gold
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 5:04:59 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Dana Gold
Sent from my iPhone
From: seema loskove
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 5:04:32 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

Instead, it risks alienating members of our community who feel targeted by the political motivations behind this proposal.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Seema Loskove
Boca Raton FL
From: Lawrence Burian
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 5:01:42 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

Instead, it risks alienating members of our community who feel targeted by the political motivations behind this proposal.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Lawrence Burian
From: Isaac Sutton
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 5:01:11 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Isaac M. Sutton
Sent from my iPhone
From: Hannah Li
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 5:01:06 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Hannah Li
From: [email protected]
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Urgent
Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 4:59:11 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Laura Frank MD
From: Eli Weisblum
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 4:58:11 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

Instead, it risks alienating members of our community who feel targeted by the political motivations behind this proposal.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Sara Weisblum
From: Lidya Osadchey
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 4:56:54 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Lidya Kushner
Sent from my iPhone
From: [email protected]
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 4:55:10 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Rachel Klein
Sent from my iPhone
From: Lori Frohmann
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 4:54:30 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Sent from my iPhone
From: Rafael Bejar
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 4:53:07 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council, I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

Firstly, Wadi Foquin is a village with approximately 1,300 residents and limited infrastructure, which starkly contrasts with Alameda’s sister city guidelines that emphasize compatibility in population size, geography, and civic goals. Moreover, this proposal is not simply about cultural exchange. It is evident that the intent behind this initiative is to promote a one-sided narrative regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The BDS movement’s agenda to isolate Israel politically and economically threatens to exacerbate tensions within this community, diverting us from fostering genuine dialogue and understanding. As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti-Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel. There are numerous existing avenues for those in our community who wish to engage with Wadi Foquin or similar regions without utilizing the sister city framework.

Establishing such a relationship does not align with our city’s values of inclusivity and community building. Instead, it risks alienating members of our community who feel targeted by the political motivations behind this proposal. Furthermore, the history of antisemitic incidents in our city underscores the importance of fostering an environment of safety and respect for all residents. Embracing a politically charged sister city relationship undermines that effort and can lead to increased division and hostility. As an alternative, I urge you to consider seeking simultaneous sister city agreements with both Israeli and Palestinian compatible communities. This approach would demonstrate that Alameda values inclusivity and aims to promote peace and understanding among diverse cultures. I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community. Thank you for your attention to this important matter. Respectfully,
From: Sara Evenhar
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 4:48:12 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

Instead, it risks alienating members of our community who feel targeted by the political motivations behind this proposal.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Sara Evenhar
From: PAULA WYNNE
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 4:44:40 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Paula Wynne
Wynne Enterprises
300 East 40th Street
Suite 10-B
New York, NY 10016
Phone (212) 867-8702
From: cindy merrick
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 4:44:11 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Cindy Merrick
Sent from my iPhone
From: Rochel Saks
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 4:41:55 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Rochel Saks
From: Michael Reuben
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 4:40:57 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council, I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

Establishing such a relationship does not align with our city’s values of inclusivity and community building. Instead, it risks alienating members of our community who feel targeted by the political motivations behind this proposal. Furthermore, the history of antisemitic incidents in our city underscores the importance of fostering an environment of safety and respect for all residents. Embracing a politically charged sister city relationship undermines that effort and can lead to increased division and hostility. As an alternative, I urge you to consider seeking simultaneous sister city agreements with both Israeli and Palestinian compatible communities. This approach would demonstrate that Alameda values inclusivity and aims to promote peace and understanding among diverse cultures. I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community. Thank you for your attention to this important matter. Respectfully,
From: Jane Grauer
To: CityCouncil-List; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Greg Boller; Tony Daysog; Tracy Jensen Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposition to Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 4:40:44 AM
cc: Christians United for Israel, Press, Elected Officials Dear Members of the Alameda City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to establish a sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin that is on the City Council agenda today, March 18. This initiative, driven by proponents of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, raises profound concerns about its implications for the Alameda community.

As noted by Ravit Baer, deputy consul-general, Wadi Foquin has been characterized as a “poster village of anti- Israeli propaganda.” The potential for this sister city designation to be leveraged for political activism under municipal auspices raises significant legal and ethical questions, particularly in light of California Assembly Bill 2844, which prohibits state engagement with organizations that boycott Israel.

I implore you to vote against the sister city proposal with Wadi Foquin today. Let us stand together in promoting unity, dialogue, and respect among all members of the community.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Respectfully,
Jane Grauer
Sent from my iPhone
Dear Mayor Ashcraft and Council Members,

I am writing in support of the Wadi Foquin Sister City proposal inclused in the consent calendar for Mar. 18
th.

As an Alameda resident, I believe a relationship with Wadi Foquin will create a deep and meaningful cultural exchange that will benefit residents from both our towns.

As a Jewish person, I find it especially meaningful and appropriate to provide support to people living in the West Bank, and to promote peace and connection with people-to-people exchange. My own synagogue has benefited tremendously from an exchange with a neighboring town.

The relationship has been valued by residents of that village, and enriched me and my fellow congregants’ understanding of the deep connections between our peoples. It has reaffirmed our shared humanity and our shared destiny together

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Loel Solomon
Alameda Resident

March 17, 2025
Hello Mayor Ashcroft and Councilmembers,
As a resident of Alameda and a Jewish community member, I am very excited about the sister city relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin being on the consent calendar.

Even though this has been years in the making, and there has been opposition from other parts of the Jewish community, I believe that this is a crucial time to build communication, cultural exchange and understanding. Wadi Foquin is a town that has inspired local people to think about learning more about what it means to be Palestinian.

As a city, Alameda needs to be free of pressure from outside institutions. As a City Council, I hope you can make a sister city agreement that shows the compassion, caring and commitment to good, peace, and hope that is so important in these times.

Thank you for your consideration,
Lili Shidlovski,
Alameda Resident
From: Alicia Beth
To: CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please oppose Wadi Foquin resolution Date: Monday, March 17, 2025 8:10:53 PM
Dear City Council,
I am an Alameda resident and an educator. I have been living here for 15 years and have two children in the AUSD system. My former partner and I helped campaign for the current Mayor when she was elected to her first term in 2018.

I remember writing to you in December 2023 about bringing people together and urged you to consider withdrawing divisive issues from the city council platform. Now I am writing again to urge you to consider voting against yet another divisive proposal (a partnership with a city in the Middle East).

My letter in 2023 then praised Superintendent Scuderi for acknowledging global differences and recognizing that taking a position on these sensitive issues would cause division rather than bringing the community together.

Can we learn from the superintendent again? Here are his words.

I also want to emphasize that our intention is to educate students to become thoughtful, collaborative members of society who seek just and peaceful solutions to today’s issues.

That value incorporates teaching students to think critically about global issues. It also entails social and emotional learning - teaching students to get along with others, to understand their own and others’ emotions, to navigate differences skillfully, and to seek common ground intentionally.

This proposal will not bring all residents together, on the contrary it will only further divide.

It does not benefit the community. With all of the issues that Alameda faces, why are we giving time and resources to this proposal?
I strongly encourage the city council to vote against this proposal and focus on issues that are more germane to Alameda. Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,
Alicia Cernitz
From: Molly Laufer
To: CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] 3/18 Sister City Agenda Topic
Date: Monday, March 17, 2025 7:38:38 PM
Dear City Council Members,
I am a resident of Alameda, having moved here 6 years ago thinking this would be a safe place to raise a young family. I am a Jewish mother of 3 young girls, with one in the public school system and the next two to follow shortly. I am writing to urge the City Council not to adopt the resolution establishing Wadi Foquin as a Sister City to Alameda. At a time of rampant and still rising anti-semistism across the US, and especially here in the Bay Area and yes, even in Alameda, it is shocking and disheartening to see the City Council establish a Sister City partnership that is so politically charged. In addition to the obvious fact that this potential city hardly fits the standard criteria for establishing Sister City partnership (Wadi Foquin is a small village of ~1,500 residents, that has nothing in common with the city of Alameda in terms of geography, industry, interests, or commerce), what is more concerning is the one-sided nature of trying to make a geopolitical statement here locally.

Instead of the not-so-subtle nod to the handful of folks who seem to think this would somehow mutually enrich the residents of both cities, what this sort of measure really does is sow further divide and pit Alameda residents, of various religious, ethnic and national backgrounds against one another.

Despite their seemingly peaceful name and with a majority of members who very much may be advocating for actual, mutual and lasting peace (something I myself support as well), if you really listened to some of the members of Alamedans 4 Ceasefire (both their letters, their words at City Council, and their social media content), you would see that many of them harbor extreme hate and vitrolic, violent sentiments towards the very residents you see here tonight. By elevating these select voices and position, you are platforming the hateful and divisive position where they seem to only accept their Jewish neighbors if we renounce our shared history with our Israeli sisters and brothers in our ancestral homeland - many of whom are American citizens and residents right here in Alameda.

If the City Council’s desire is really to do something productive, why has there been no effort over the last 17 months to bring together local groups who could work to improve relationships between different religious groups and political backgrounds right here in Alameda? Measures such as this reek of one sided virtue signaling, but don't make any practical difference globally. Instead, initiatives like this sow division locally amongst your own constituents - those who elected you, and those who count on you to make sure EVERY member of our community truly feels like Alameda is a place where everyone belongs. Right now, I can’t say that is the feeling that my family has here given the actions, words, and efforts we’ve seen unfold over the last 17 months.

I encourage the City Council to think and act locally in ways that will unite, and not divide us further. Thank you for your consideration of this position.

Molly Laufer
Alameda Resident
3/17/25

Dear Alameda City Council Members -

I urge you to vote in favor of the Wadi Foquin Sister City proposal is included in the consent calendar for Mar. 18th!

I believe that Wadi Foquin will enable Alameda to build the very kind of relationships - people to people - that are needed at this critical time, particularly to promote peace and further understanding. As a supporter/member of Face-to-Face: Jewish Palestinian Reparations Alliance, at Oakland's Kehilla Community Synagogue, we have first-hand experience building a relationship with a Palestinian village in the West Bank. This relationship has been crucial as we nurture greater understanding of our respective communities. In particular, when there is so much division being fostered by some of our government leaders, it is imperative that local leaders help foster relationships that build peace and understanding.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,
Julie Litwin
Kehilla Community Synagogue Member

From: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft
To: Lara Weisiger; Sarah Henry; Jennifer Ott
Subject: Fw: [EXTERNAL] PLEASE Vote YES to make Alameda a sister city of Wadi Foquin at your coucil meeting 3-18 Date: Monday, March 17, 2025 6:31:00 PM
Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft
Mayor, City of Alameda
(510)747-4745
From: Diana Scott <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 17, 2025 4:02 PM
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft <[email protected]>; Michele Pryor <[email protected]>; Greg Boller <[email protected]>; Tracy Jensen <[email protected]>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] PLEASE Vote YES to make Alameda a sister city of Wadi Foquin at your coucil meeting 3-18

Dear Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft, Vice Mayor Prior, and Council members Boller and Jensen:

I am a Jewish American excited to hear about the resolution on your agenda on Tuesday, March 18, to make Alameda and the West Bank village of Wadi Foquin sister cities, being re-introduced after a long delay. As the chair of the secular Jewish group, Northern California Workers Circle, branch of a national organization founded in 1900, I am eager to see relationships of peaceful co-existence and understanding fostered between Jews and Palestinians, overseas and in the U.S. at a time when they are greatly needed.

This opportunity to support peaceful coexistence between a Palestinian village and a Bay Area sister city not only reflects well on Alameda, but is an inspiration to model similar relationships to protect and promote the good will and well-being of vulnerable West Bank communities, and enhance mutual support among ethnic groups here in Northern California and beyond.

After seeing the Academy Award-winning documentary "No Other Land" yesterday in San Francisco, I can't help feeling that had we been more aware of the attempts to destroy the filmmaker's West Bank village (Masafer Yatta) and organized a similar sister city effort in San Francisco or Oakland, residents of that other Palestinian village might still inhabit their family lands (from the early 19th century).

Your resolution suggests what we, as Bay Area residents can do, to foster peace and understanding here and in vulnerable West Bank communities like Wadi Foquin. Please vote "YES" on the sister city resolution.

Thank you.

Diana Scott, San Francisco
[Chair, Northern California Workers Circle/Arbeter Ring, for identification purposes only] From: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft
To: Lara Weisiger; Sarah Henry; Jennifer Ott
Subject: Fw: [EXTERNAL] Creating a Sister City Resolution Date: Monday, March 17, 2025 6:27:12 PM
Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft
Mayor, City of Alameda
(510)747-4745
From: ROSELLE GOZALI <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 17, 2025 4:24 PM
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft <[email protected]>; Michele Pryor <[email protected]>
Cc: Greg Boller <[email protected]>; Tracy Jensen <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Creating a Sister City Resolution

Dear Elected Officials of Alameda,
Im Rosie Gozali, a retired teacher with the SFUSD.

Im writing in support of a resolution to create an Alameda sister city relationship with Wadi Foquin, a town in the West Bank of the occupied territories.

Who knows! Maybe if there had already been a sister city relationship between Alameda and Masfer Yatta, the terrible destruction by the armed Israeli settlers and the IDF, may not have happened.

Please consider seriously the possibility of creating a sister city between Alameda and one of the very vulnerable towns in the West Bank.

Thank you.

Rosie Gozali
From: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft
To: Lara Weisiger; Sarah Henry; Jennifer Ott
Subject: Fw: [EXTERNAL] Let"s Be Sisters with Wadi Foquin Date: Monday, March 17, 2025 6:26:37 PM
Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft
Mayor, City of Alameda
(510)747-4745
From: Deborah Sullivan <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 17, 2025 4:30 PM
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Let's Be Sisters with Wadi Foquin

Why not! I am excited that Wadi Foquin is being considered at tomorrow's council meeting on 3/18. I am writing in support of this. I am a 25 year resident of Alameda and a proud member of Jewish Voice For Peace. I would love to see us build a relationship with this West Bank city.

Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to celebrating our newest Sister City on the 18th! This would be some wonderful news during a dismal time.
--
Best,
Deb
www.debsullivanpottery.com
@deb.sullivan.pottery
From: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft
To: Lara Weisiger; Sarah Henry; Jennifer Ott
Subject: Fw: [EXTERNAL] Wadi Foquin Sister City
Date: Monday, March 17, 2025 6:20:49 PM
Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft
Mayor, City of Alameda
(510)747-4745
From: John Ota <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, March 17, 2025 5:37 PM
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Wadi Foquin Sister City

Dear Mayor Ashcraft,
As a resident, home owner and voter in Alameda for 33 years, I strongly urge you to support the Wadi Foquin Sister City proposal included in the consent calendar for Mar. 18th.

I believe that Wadi Foquin enables us to build the very kind of relationships - people to people - that are needed at this critical time, particularly to promote peace and further understanding.

And peace and understanding is desperately needed in regard to the West Bank territory occupied by Israel.

I want to emphasize that I do not see this proposal as one that is in opposition or to the detriment of any other group or people, and in fact, I am also open to sister city relations with cities and towns in many other countries.

Thank you for your consideration.

I look forward to celebrating our newest Sister City relationship with you on the 18th.

Sincerely,
John Ota
Alameda Resident
Mayor and City Council
City of Alameda, California
Monday, March 17, 2025
Honorable Mayor and Members of the Alameda City Council, My name is Prof. John Dabeet. I serve on the Sister Cities International Honorary Board of Directors, and I am also the Global Outreach Representative of Country Palestine on Sister Cities International, the national association of sister city programs representing over 560 U.S. communities with more than 2,400 partnerships in 150 countries. We were founded in 1956 by President Eisenhower to promote peace through mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation—one individual, one community at a time.

Sister Cities is a peace-building organization. I am sure that as a city, as individuals, and as an organization, working toward building peace in our world is your priority, and what can be better than making Alameda-Wadi Foquin an official Sister City relationship to achieve that? Every country in our world has its history—good and bad. The United States of America also has its own history. Throughout Sister Cities as a movement, citizens gain a sense of pride from being involved in solutions to global challenges by connecting with people from other cultures.

Muscatine, Iowa, and Ramallah, Palestine, signed a Sister Cities relationship in 2011, and since that date, both cities have enjoyed several cultural and educational exchanges. In addition, Boulder-Nablus moved in that direction and made it happen, and Dayton-Salfit. Therefore, we hope Alameda-Wadi Foquin moves in that direction and makes it happen too.

The exchange of knowledge, culture, food, and every aspect of life will move both communities forward in a positive way, as I have been seeing the same happening between Muscatine, Iowa, and Ramallah, Palestine. I would like to offer my expertise and time with each one of you and want you to feel free to contact me any time if you have any questions.

Citizen diplomacy is the concept that the individual has the right, even the responsibility, to help shape U.S. foreign relations, "one handshake at a time." So please, let us start that handshake between the people of Alameda, California, and the people of Wadi Foquin, Palestine. Each one of us can be citizen diplomats and help build a better future. Sister Cities work is NOT political by any means and is based on people-to-people relationships.

I genuinely hope that the Alameda City Council will approve this relationship and take a courageous step towards promoting peace and understanding.

With respect

Prof. John Dabeet (563-554-1353)
Sister Cities International Honorary Board Member
Sister Cities International Country of Palestine Representative Muscatine Sister Cities Inc. President

From: Shelley Sella
To: CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Wadi Foquin, Sister City
Date: Monday, March 17, 2025 5:46:12 PM
Dear Alameda City Council Members -
I am so excited that the Wadi Foquin Sister City proposal is included in the consent calendar for Mar. 18th!
I believe that Wadi Foquin enables Alameda to build the very kind of relationships - people to people - that are needed at this critical time, particularly to promote peace and further understanding. As a supporter/member of Face-to-Face: Jewish Palestinian Reparations Alliance, at Oakland's Kehilla Community Synagogue, we have first-hand experience building a relationship with a Palestinian village in the West Bank. This relationship has been crucial as we nurture greater understanding of our respective communities. In particular, when there is so much division being fostered by some of our government leaders, it is imperative that local leaders help foster relationships that build peace and understanding.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,
Shelley Sella, M.D.

From: Lynn Gottlieb
To: CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please vote FOR Wadi Foquin to be a sister city Date: Monday, March 17, 2025 5:31:14 PM
Dear Alameda City Council Members -
I am so excited that the Wadi Foquin Sister City proposal is included in the consent calendar for Mar. 18th!
I believe that Wadi Foquin enables Alameda to build the very kind of relationships - people to people - that are needed at this critical time, particularly to promote peace and further understanding. As a long time advocate for Palestinian human rights, a member of Shomeret Shalom Network, and a rabbi of 52 years with family in Alameda, I fully support the Wadi Foquin Sister City proposal. I have personally traveled to Wadi Foquin and treasure this community. In particular, when there is so much division being fostered by some of our government leaders and community members, it is imperative that local leaders help foster relationships that build peace and understanding across cultures and religions.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,
Rabbi Lynn Gottlieb
(for identification) Board member of Interfaith Movement for Human Integrity Rabbi Lynn Gottlieb
Shomeret Shalom
pronouns she/her
[email protected]
http://www.rabbilynngottlieb.com
Ohlone territory, Berkeley, CA
From: Saara Ahmed
To: CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Support for 5J- Wadi Fouquin SIster city proposal Date: Monday, March 17, 2025 5:25:57 PM
Dear Mayor Ashcraft,
I am so excited that the Wadi Foquin Sister City proposal is included in the consent calendar for March 18th!
I believe that Wadi Foquin enables us to build the very kind of people-to-people relationships that are needed at this critical time, particularly to promote peace, mutual understanding, and global solidarity.

As someone who has wholeheartedly been welcomed as a resident of Alameda by community leaders who have worked tirelessly to build connections between our city and Wadi Foquin, I have witnessed firsthand how Alameda embodies community care and connectivity—not division. This Sister City proposal is a reflection of those values.

At a time when Palestinians, immigrants, and marginalized communities are facing increasing threats, detentions, and efforts to erase and dehumanize them, fostering international relationships like this one becomes even more essential. The connection between Alameda and Wadi Foquin stands as a powerful counter to these injustices, affirming that our communities are built on shared humanity, not division.

The attempts to frame our advocacy for this partnership as divisive are not only false but also perpetuate misunderstanding. In reality, this initiative aligns perfectly with the very purpose of the Sister Cities program: to cultivate global cooperation, cultural exchange, and meaningful dialogue.

I strongly support the Wadi Foquin Sister City proposal and remain deeply committed to standing alongside the leaders of this partnership and the many community members who have shown me what it truly means to be an Alamedan—one who respects human rights and believes in our shared connections over our differences.

Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to celebrating our newest Sister City relationship with you on the 18th!
Sincerely,
Saara
Member of AFF4CL
March 17, 2025
The Alameda City Council
Mayor Marilyn Ezzy-Ashcraft
Vice Mayor Michele Pryor
Councilmember Tracy Jensen
Councilmember Greg Boller
Councilmember Tony Daysog

Dear honorable Council members,
My name is Brenda Wong and I live in Castro Valley, CA, not far from Alameda. I grew up in Oakland Chinatown and East Oakland, and not far from your city. I have been a member of the Chinese Community United Methodist Church in Oakland on 8th St. for 67 years and s�ll atend services each Sunday. Our church belongs to a circuit of United Methodist Churches in the Bay District including Twin Towers UMC and Buena Vista UMC in Alameda. I know four pastors personally who live in Alameda as well as many friends who reside there.

Even though I don’t live in Alameda I am excited to hear that there is a proposal that Alameda becomes a sister city to Wadi Foquin, a small Pales�nian Village in the West Bank of Israel. In 2017, I had the privilege of visi�ng Israel and Pales�ne with a pilgrimage group from our church and Lake Merrit UMC. It was then when I got to visit Wadi Foquin and meet our wonderful tour guide Ata Manasra and his family. We had meals with families there and we were shown such loving hospitality when we came. I found the Pales�nian people very friendly, welcoming, loving and peace loving. When I was in Hebron, a city in the West Bank I met a man and I asked him what I could do to help him. He said to please tell their stories when I got back to the U.S.

I think it’s a wonderful thing that Alameda can do to establish a sister rela�onship of love and community with Wadi Foquin. This shows the world where our hearts should be, to love one another as Jesus taught us to do, working for peace in the world opposed to war, and understanding diﬀerent cultures of the world. I wish that our litle unincorporated town of Castro Valley could do more to promote jus�ce and peace. Wouldn’t the world be a beter place if we all learned to get along and accept our diﬀerences as God intended? Thank you for stepping up and being bold and se�ng a good example, and let there be peace on earth.

Sincerely,
Brenda Wong
From: Cindy Berk
To: CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Sister City
Date: Monday, March 17, 2025 4:34:21 PM
Wadi Foquin is not a compatible sister city for Alameda. It is a village of approximately 1,300 people with limited infrastructure and capacity, which does not meet Alameda’s own sister city guidelines that require compatibility in areas such as population size, geography, industries, or shared civic goals.

People who want to engage with them have other choices. It would be a slap in the face to the Jewish residents of Alameda if you approve this.
thank you
--
Cindy Berk
510-909-7128
Y-200 Yoga Instructor/ Flexibility Coach
PMI Certified Project Manager
Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible.

From: [email protected]
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft; Michele Pryor; Tony Daysog; Greg Boller; Tracy Jensen Cc: Lara Weisiger
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Item 5-J: March 18 City Council Agenda-Wadi Foquin Sister City Resolution Date: Monday, March 17, 2025 4:13:43 PM
Dear Mayor Ashcraft, Vice-Mayor Pryor & Council Members Daysog, Boller and Jensen

I am a Jew who strongly believes in the Israel’s right to exist while actively opposing the civilian Jewish settlements in the West Bank and the horrible conditions created for Palestinians as a result thereof. A few years ago, I spoke with Reverend Yoshii and met several of the folks who are supporting the sister city resolution and would like to stand with them in this matter. Therefore, my initial reaction to Item 5-J was positive. However, I also found myself deeply concerned that entering a sister city relationship with Wadi Foquin would be viewed as the City taking sides in the broad issue of the Israel/Palestine conflict in which there are deep divides in our community. Therefore, I decided to read all 46 letters posted to the item as of today. I believe that Attorney Brian Scwartz’s letter of March 14 presents a cogent argument against the resolution. I quote the core of his letter below:

“It is clear that the idea of having Wadi Foquin as a sister city is only to adopt some kind of foreign policy and advance a narrative against Israel, a narrative which will only serve to deepen division in our community and does nothing to help the City of Alameda with its important objectives in creating a successful, safe, diverse, and harmonious community here on the island.”

If the city would make a concerted effort to establish sister cities similar to Alameda in both the West Bank and Israel it could create a positive atmosphere that promotes understanding and a quest for peace in both the Holy Land and our own community which I could support. The letter from Sister City International (Exhibit 2) states that Gainesville, Florida has done exactly that. Perhaps Alameda should seek guidance from Gainesville on accomplishing the same here.

Sincerely,

Paul Foreman

Dear Alameda City Council Members -

I am so excited that the Wadi Foquin Sister City proposal is included in the consent calendar for Mar. 18th!
I believe that Wadi Foquin enables Alameda to build the very kind of rela�onships - people to people - that are needed at this cri�cal �me, par�cularly to promote peace and further understanding.

I traveled to the West Bank 2017 and found the people to be welcoming and hospitable. In Wadi Foquin we were invited to private homes for dinner and lunch the following day. The village keeps losing land, buildings, and olive trees to the setlements up on the heights, and s�ll they welcomed us and consider us their friends.

Thank you for your considera�on.

I look forward to celebra�ng our newest Sister City rela�onship with you on the 18th.

Sincerely,
Linda Weingarten
San Leandro
From: Sherri Elinson
To: CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Wadi Foquin Sister City Proposal
Date: Monday, March 17, 2025 3:27:02 PM
Dear Councilpersons,
I am writing to encourage you to support the proposal for Alameda to become a sister city with Wadi Foquin in Palestine.

I had the pleasure of visiting the village of Wadi Foquin in the spring of 2023 and meeting a number of the residents. One resident, Ata Manasra, was our tour guide for twelve days in Palestine and Israel so I got to know him well. Getting to know Ata and others from his village really taught me how no matter how different our lives might look on the outside, we are the same. Wadi Foquin is mostly farmland and is surrounded by the huge apartment complexes of the three Israeli settlements. And, despite the loss of so much of land to these settlements, the villagers are determined to continue to care for their and their families. Most of us care most of all for our homes and our families, they are no different.

The kinds of relationships that I was able have though my travel to Wadi Foquin, and the kind of relationships that the Sister City program fosters are so important - especially now! I am not a resident of Alameda, but it would make me so proud to know that a neighboring city had this relationship with Wadi Foquin, a land that has been in my heart ever since I was there. I very much hope that you will support this initiative.

Sincerely,
Sherri Elinson
Oakland
From: Vathanak Heang
To: CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Wadi Foquin
Date: Monday, March 17, 2025 2:32:15 PM
Dear Alameda City Council Members

I am so excited that the Wadi Foquin Sister City proposal is included in the consent calendar for Mar. 18th!
I believe that Wadi Foquin enables Alameda to build the very kind of relationships - people to people - that are needed at this critical time, particularly to promote peace and further understanding.

As a pastor, I believe that relationships are at the heart of transformation—whether within a congregation, a city, or across the world. Our shared humanity calls us to act with compassion to seek justice, and to build bridges of understanding. A sister city relationship with Wadi Foquin is not just a symbolic gesture; it is an investment in peace, education, and community development that will benefit both our cities.

Alameda has always been a city that values diversity, inclusion, and justice. Strengthening our connection with Wadi Foquin aligns with these values and demonstrates that our city is willing to lead with both heart and vision.

Thank you for your consideration.

I look forward to celebrating our newest Sister City relationship with you on the 18th.

Sincerely,
Rev. Vathanak Heang
Alameda Resident
From: Dave Lachs
To: CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] 3/18 Sister City Agenda Topic,
Date: Monday, March 17, 2025 2:12:57 PM
Hello City Council,
I am writing to urge you all to vote no on the creation of the sister city with Wadi Foquin.

What is the point of this?
How does it help Alameda and its citizens.

Alameda City Council should stay out of world politics and issues outside its borders.

We all want a ceasefire to the ongoing conflict in Israel and the West Bank but adding Wadi Foquin to our sister city program will not accomplish anything but create further strain and unwanted hatred toward Alameda’s Jewish population. · Wadi Foquin is a small village that has nothing in common with the city of Alameda.

Citizen diplomacy is usually done between cities of similar size and geography. · There is no reason to politicize the Sister City project. Wadi Foquin is an area that sits entirely within Israeli control, unlike Bethlehem or many other possible sister cities.
· At a time of rampant anti-Jewish rhetoric and actions, there is no reason for our city to make a one-sided decision to express solidarity only with the civilians of Palestine and do nothing in support of the civilians of Israel.
· This is yet another example of Alameda ignoring the legitimate fears of its Jewish and Israeli residents. Rather than putting a thumb on the scale, wouldn’t it be better for the city to organize citizen dialog sessions? City time should be used to bridge the clear political divisions in our community and help people understand how offensive it is to declare Zionism equal to racism?
I urge the City Council to vote no.

Thanks
Dave Lachs
From: Savanna Cheer
To: Tracy Jensen; Tony Daysog; Greg Boller; Michele Pryor; Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft Cc: City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Sister City: Wadi Foquin
Date: Monday, March 17, 2025 11:11:35 AM
Hello:

It's exciting to see that the Wadi Foquin Sister City proposal is coming before Council again. I strongly urge you to support building a Sister City relationship with Wadi Foquin.

If you're like me, you have probably been overwhelmed by the aggressive actions of the federal government/DOGE in the past weeks. Particularly tragic and life-threatening has been the gutting of USAID. USAID's exertion of soft power around the world is/was respected by generations of Democrats, policy makers, world leaders and undoubtedly all of you. Beyond the tragedy of losing such a large group of committed public workers, more urgent and terrible are the consequences of ending food programs, life-saving medicine programs, aid delivery and more all around the world. At a time when soft power is being abandoned, which threatens national security and risks countless lives, local governments might be feeling helpless. This has all happened lightning fast and with what feels like no intervention. In fact, it's unclear if there's much that mayors and city councils can do. BUT, a powerful action lies before you tomorrow night.

By engaging in the Sister City program and making Wadi Foquin a sister city to Alameda you can directly affect the restoration of principles aligned with the USA's soft power mechanism, right here in Alameda. Sister Cities International aims to foster global understanding and cooperation through people-to-people interactions - directly impacting the culture, economics and education of both cities. This is precisely the type of cooperation that the Trump/DOGE regime would like to see suffer. So why not consider building a sister city relationship at this critical moment? It would be a powerful act of resistance. You have a unique chance to exert the limited force you have as local elected officials to fight against the current administrations' destruction of norms.

Beyond that significant impact on national and international affairs, you will be providing an amazing gift to our local community. In a time when we are all grappling with connection and placing ourselves on solid ground both in our local and global contexts - it would be incredibly enriching and uplifting to build a cross-cultural, international relationship that promotes peace and understanding.

I urge you to consider the widest possible lens when you make your vote, and the important impact you can have by entering into a Sister City relationship with Wadi Foquin.

Please take this important step. Thank you.

Savanna Cheer
From: Genevieve Pastor-Cohen
To: CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Sister City Wadi Foquin
Date: Sunday, March 16, 2025 6:16:44 PM
Dear Honorable Mayor, Vice Mayor & Councilmembers:

I oppose this sister city status with Wadi Foquin for the following reasons.

Wadi Foquin is a small village that has nothing in common with the city of Alameda. Citizen diplomacy is usually done between cities of similar size and geography.

There is no reason to politicize the Sister City project. Wadi Foquin is an area that sits entirely within Israeli control, unlike Bethlehem or many other possible sister cities.

At a time of rampant anti-Jewish rhetoric and actions, there is no reason for our city to make a one-sided decision to express solidarity only with the civilians of Palestine and do nothing in support of the civilians of Israel.

This is yet another example of Alameda ignoring the legitimate fears of its Jewish and Israeli residents. Rather than putting a thumb on the scale, wouldn’t it be better for the city to organize citizen dialog sessions? City time should be used to bridge the clear political divisions in our community and help people understand how offensive it is to declare Zionism equal to racism? Thank you for your serious consideration of this matter.

Respectfully,
Genevieve Pastor-Cohen (she/her), MS,
Certified Lifetime Emergency Manager
Alameda Resident since 1996
Member, Temple Israel
Sent from Genevieve's iPhone (510) 331-7179. Apologies for typos & iPhone “auto spell” mishaps.

March 16, 2025

Dear Alameda City Council members:

I ﬁnd it very hopeful that the Wadi Foquin Sister City proposal is included in the consent calendar for Mar. 18th. I enthusiastically support the establishment of a sister city relationship with the village of Wadi Foquin.

This sister city partnership provides a welcome antidote to the climate of racism and isolationism taking over the United States. The purpose of Sister Cities is “to foster global understanding and cooperation through people-to-people interactions, promoting cultural, economic, and educational exchanges between communities in different countries.” There has never been a better time to develop new sister city relationships, especially with a community that has been so misunderstood by most Americans and maligned by many.

I am deeply saddened that some members of our community – and possibly some of you – ﬁnd this proposal ‘controversial’. The only reason for that is the deep-seated anti- Palestinian racism prevalent in the United States and that has only intensiﬁed under Trump.

Commentator Omar Suleiman described his experience, “to be Palestinian in the eyes of Trump, and in the eyes of much of the American political establishment, is to be something lesser. It is to be cast as an enemy, a threat, a people whose very existence is seen as suspect. In America, to say “I am Palestinian” is to invite suspicion, hostility and punishment.”
The President recently used the work “Palestinian” as a racial slur against a Jewish member of Congress which was condemned by Jewish and Muslim organizations. Meanwhile, Trump and his administration are actively criminalizing the free speech of anyone who protests the killing of innocent Palestinians (17,000 Palestinian children were killed in the last two years) as “antisemitic”, “pro-terrorist”, and “anti-American”.

Amy Spitalnick, CEO of the Jewish Council for Public Affairs responded that, “The goal for this administration isn’t to counter antisemitism or protect Israel. It’s to weaponize antisemitism to go after their political enemies, advance an extreme agenda, and undercut democracy — and it only makes Jews *less* safe.”
Wadi Foquin is a village of 1500 human beings in the West Bank and having a sister city relationship with them should be no different than any other city in the world. If you vote against this proposal, you are aligning yourself with the likes of our President and contributing to an ongoing agenda of the dehumanization of the Palestinian people.

A sister-city relationship can help people bridge divides and make connections through culture. I want to live in a City where my Lebanese children might have the opportunity for a pen pal or soccer exchange with youth living in the Arab world. As Arabs, I want my children to live in a city where people are not afraid of or disdainful of the word “Palestinian” or the Palestinian people.

We say that “everybody belongs” in Alameda. I think we all have so much to learn from the villagers of Wadi Foquin through a sister city relationship and that Almeda will be a more inclusive city because of it.

Thank you for your consideration.

I look forward to celebrating our newest Sister City relationship with you on the 18th.

Sincerely,
Brooke Atherton El-Amine
Alameda Resident, Member of Alameda Families and Friends for Collective Liberation, AUSD parent

From: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft
To: Lara Weisiger; Sarah Henry; Jennifer Ott
Subject: Fw: [EXTERNAL] Sister City Propoal March 18th
Date: Sunday, March 16, 2025 9:41:59 AM
Attachments: Sister City Letter of Support.pdf
Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft
Mayor, City of Alameda
510-747-4745
From: Glenda Kith <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2025 9:41 AM
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Sister City Propoal March 18th

Dear Esteemed Alameda City Council Member,
I am emailing you with appreciation. Please view my words of appreciation for your upcoming event in a letter attached.
--
Kind regards,
Glenda L. Kith
________________________
“The most beautiful experience we can have is the mysterious - the fundamental emotion which stands at the cradle of true art and true science.” - Albert Einstein Dear Alameda City Council Member:

It makes my heart warm to see that the Wadi Foquin Sister City proposal is included in the consent

calendar

for

March

18th,

2025.

Sister

cities

allow

people

from

anywhere

the

world

connect

human

beings

for

the

purpose

peace,

sharing,

and

humanity.

Having

sister

city

relationship

with

place

Wadi

Foquin

would

help

interested

Alamedans

come

together

fun

activities

that

can

benefit

all

communities.

personally

support

the

Wadi

Foquin

Sister

City

proposal

because

hope

for

better

future

for

new

generations.

Growing

Alameda,

had

the

chance

befriend

people

different

types

cultures,

religions,

classes,

colors,

etc.

made

stronger

person

who

wanted

give

back

community.

Currently

professional

working

Alameda

through

local

government

and

public

health

policy,

able

give

back.

work

children

have

hopeful

future.

Through Alameda's everyday communities, there is a legacy of diversity, unity, humanity, generosity,

and

love.

Alamedans

are

ready

and

willing

make

this

sister

city

relationship

happen.

All

ask

you,

allow

them

freely

that

with

your

support.

Sincerely,
Glenda

Kith

Community

member

Alameda

Worker

From: Sophia Elliott
To: CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Wadi Foquin Sister City Proposal
Date: Sunday, March 16, 2025 6:32:07 AM
Dear Mayor Ashcroft,
I am so excited that the Wadi Foquin Sister City proposal is included in the consent calendar for Mar. 18th!
I believe that Wadi Foquin enables us to build the very kind of relationships - people to people - that are needed at this critical time, particularly to promote peace and further understanding.

As a long time resident of Alameda, it’s important to me to create a safe and compassionate community here as well as forming a partnership with this Sister City so that we may weave the web of greater connection, thus promoting cultural, economic, and educational exchanges between communities in different countries.

Thank you for your consideration.

I look forward to celebrating our newest Sister City relationship with you on the 18th.

Sincerely,
Sophia Voyevod Elliott
Alameda Resident
From: Claude Fischer
To: City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] To the Board: On so-called "ethical investment" Date: Saturday, March 15, 2025 9:44:02 PM
As a 38-year resident of Alameda County, I object to efforts to redirect taxpayer money based, not on fiduciary principles, but as a targeted attack on one country, Israel. Even were "ethical investment" a reasonable standard, "ethics" would require fairness and balance. Where is the ethical concern about the fate of, say, Uyghurs in China, oppressed people in Myanmar or South Sudan, or Ukrainians (where the death toll exceeds that in Gaza). Any "ethical" stance that is so selective is to focus on one nation is clearly not ethical.

Claude S. Fischer,
Berkeley
From: Laura Thomas
To: CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Wadi Foquin Sister City proposal
Date: Saturday, March 15, 2025 9:35:52 PM
Dear Mayor Ashcraft and members of our Alameda city council, I hope you will stand up for love and justice on Tuesday and finally approve a Sister City relationship between Alameda and Wadi Foquin in Palestine.

I am one of many Alamedans who have supported the Buena Vista United Methodist Church in their more than a decade-long effort to help the villagers of Wadi Foquin survive and prosper under conditions that would challenge any community anywhere on earth. Through the many events the church has sponsored over the years featuring the food, music and culture of the village, the bonds between Wadi Foquin and Alameda have grown and enriched everyone who has taken part in them.

Formalizing a Sister City resolution seems like an obvious and simple declaration of a relationship that in some ways already exists and has had a very positive effect on many residents. The council ought to be proud of the work the Buena Vista United Methodist Church and other groups in town to lift up Alameda as a town of caring people.

I am sure that everyone of you is completely aware that there is nothing divisive, mean-spirited nor anti-semitic in the Alameda residents supporting this proposal nor in the intention of the proposal itself.

I urge you to support this effort as it demonstrates once again how much Alameda is rising up to take on the mantel of the beloved community that Martin Luther King spoke about.

Sincerely,
Laura Thomas
From: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft
To: Lara Weisiger; Sarah Henry; Jennifer Ott
Subject: Fw: [EXTERNAL] Letter of Support for Wadi Foquin Date: Saturday, March 15, 2025 8:54:16 PM
Attachments: Letter of Support for Wadi Foquin.docx
fyi
Marilyn
Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft
Mayor, City of Alameda
510-747-4745
From: Matt Ortega <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, March 15, 2025 5:17 PM
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Letter of Support for Wadi Foquin

To Mayor Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft,
Please find the attached letter in support of Alameda becoming a Sister City to Wadi Foquin. I hope you have a wonderful weekend.
_________________________________________________________ Matt "Magpie" Ortega (they/it)
Artist | Co-Head Mouse
Modern Mouse Maker Market
Est. 2009 | 300+ artisans
510-814-8830
[email protected]
www.modernmousegifts.com - shop 24/7 (USPS Shipping & more) 2223 South Shore Center, Alameda CA 94501
Shopping Hours
Tuesdays - Sundays 12:00pm - 6:00pm
Buy us a Coffee?
Dear Mayor Ashcraft,

I hope this message finds you well. I emailing you to extend my excitement for the Wadi Foquin Sister City proposal that is included in the consent calendar for the Mar. 18th meeting!
I believe that Wadi Foquin enables us to build the very kind of relationships - people to people - that are needed at this critical time in our lives, particularly to promote peace and further understanding.

As a small business owner dedicated to making a difference through their line of work, I hope you will match my efforts in agreeing to this piece of history coming across your desk.

Thank you for your consideration.

I look forward to celebrating our newest Sister City relationship with you on the 18th.

Sincerely,
Matthew “Magpie” Ortega
Alameda Small Business Owner

From: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft
To: Lara Weisiger; Sarah Henry; Jennifer Ott
Subject: Fw: [EXTERNAL] Wadi Foquin Sister City Proposal Date: Saturday, March 15, 2025 8:49:29 PM
fyi
Marilyn
Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft
Mayor, City of Alameda
510-747-4745
From: Arely Mendoza <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, March 15, 2025 6:45 PM
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Wadi Foquin Sister City Proposal

Dear Mayor Ashcraft,
Happy Saturday! I hope all is well.

It is absolutely thrilling to hear that the Wadi Foquin Sister City proposal is included in the consent calendar for Mar. 18th!
My family and I believe that Wadi Foquin enables us to build the very kind of relationships - people to people - that are so desperately needed at this critical time, particularly to promote peace, humanity and further understanding.

My husband and I have two little girls, one is a AUSD kiddo, the other will be as well once she’s old enough. We both work on the island and we are very invested in the beautiful Alameda community.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

We look forward to celebrating our newest Sister City relationship with you on the 18th.

Sincerely,
Arely M.

Alameda Resident
From: Rick Weisman
To: CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] ABSOLUTELY NO to Wadi Foquin terrorist village sister city initiative Date: Saturday, March 15, 2025 5:33:44 PM
Gentlemen
I wrote you yesterday about my objection to this initiative. I did not receive any confirmation and response from you so far.

I do not agree you will teach my grandchildren this fake Palestinian stories. While they are crying and yelling how poor they are they continue to murder Israelis all over the West Bank and beyond. I attach a pictures of Palestinian children in a kindergarten on the West Bank.

This is how Hamas educate young children to hate and kill Jews. From young age they wear the Hamas uniforms, carry weapons (some toys and some real) burning the Israeli flag and learn how to kill Jews. As they grow more they go out from their villages ambush Jewish cars on the road. Throw stones, shoot and kill Israeli families. There is a long list of victims. And as they grow older they do an organized massacres October 7 style. Then they come to Alameda and pretend to be poor villagers who suffer so much.

THIS HATE BRIANWASHING MUST BE STOPPED. TODAY IT IS ABOUT JEWS. TOMORROW IT WILL BE ALL OF AMERICA.

I give you a challenge. You take a car and travel in the West Bank dressed as a Jewish person. You try to enter Palestinian villages on the road one after the other. If you come back alive after 24 hours on the road without being hit by stones, guns and etc we can talk about the poor villagers in Wadi Foquin.

Rick Weismann
From: ytisha says shalom
To: CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: PROPOSAL TO ESTABLISH A SISTER CITY RELATIONSHIP WITH WADI FOQUIN Date: Saturday, March 15, 2025 4:07:11 PM
Honorable Representatives March 15. 2025 We have been residents in Alameda for over 20 years. It is a wonderful place to live, with great diversity and understanding. We are proud of the way the people and representatives have worked to make Alameda so special. I think it is still important that the city should continue to focus on city needs and services and let the appropriate entities work on world politics.

I do not want to see us taking actions that could create locale hostility to any of our citizens here in Alameda.

Thank you
Yehuda ben-Israel
From: Toni Grimm
To: CityCouncil-List; City Clerk
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Sister City status for Wadi Foquin
Date: Saturday, March 15, 2025 1:38:40 PM
Dear Mayor, Vice-Mayor, and City Councilmembers,
I support an MOU to begin the process of establishing Sister City status for the village of Wadi Faquin. Alameda currently has no other Sister Cities in this part of the world, so it would be a welcome expansion of our city's outreach to promote education, understanding and peaceful relations within the international community.

I have read opposition to this action based on the fact that Wadi Faquin is located in a troubled area of the world and that this choice would therefore be "divisive." However, I would like to point out that this argument could also be made against several of the Sister Cities that Alameda already has, specifically those in China and the Philippines, countries at times that have had difficult relations with our own country (mainly because of their leaders, not their residents). I hope you will reject this unfair argument, which is itself divisive.

Toni Grimm
Alameda resident

Virus-free.www.avast.com
Subject: Letter of Support for Wadi Foquin as Our Sister City Dear Honorable Members of the City Council,
I am thrilled to learn that the Wadi Foquin Sister City proposal is included in the consent calendar for March 18th. This initiative represents a meaningful step toward building bridges between our communities and fostering relationships based on mutual respect, cultural exchange, and shared values.

At a time when global peace and understanding are more crucial than ever, forming a Sister City relationship with Wadi Foquin provides an opportunity for people-to-people engagement that can have a lasting impact. Through this partnership, we can support grassroots connections that enhance dialogue, learning, and collaboration.

As a [mention any relevant community affiliation, such as a parent of AUSD students, member of a faith-based or civic organization, or other community role], I wholeheartedly support this initiative. I believe that such partnerships enrich our local community by broadening perspectives, creating educational opportunities, and reinforcing our commitment to global solidarity.

Thank you for your thoughtful consideration of this important proposal. I look forward to celebrating our newest Sister City relationship with you on March 18th.

Sincerely,
Stewart Chen
Alameda resident

From: Jeffrey Gould
To: CityCouncil-List
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: [EXTERNAL] March 18, consent calendar item 5-J (Wadi Foquin) Date: Saturday, March 15, 2025 9:39:43 AM
To:

Mayor Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft
Vice Mayor Michele Pryor
Councilmember Greg Boller
Councilmember Tony Daysog
Councilmember Tracy Jensen
Hello Alameda City Council,
Regarding item 5-J on the consent calendar:

Alameda's partnership with Wadi Foquin is only aimed at creating:
"a world where people-to-people interactions foster mutual understanding, build global cooperation, and promote peace".
-- How can that be a bad thing and/or threaten anyone?
The world's geo-politics must not overshadow our connections to, our dependence upon each other.

Please support the resolution to make Wadi Foquin our next sister city.

Thank you,
Jeffrey Gould
(citizen of Alameda since 1988, former AMP PUB commissioner) From: Dan Laufer
To: CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Opposing sister city designation
Date: Saturday, March 15, 2025 8:38:19 AM
Alameda city councilors-
I've been a resident of Alameda since 2019 and was surprised and disappointed to hear of the proposal to add Wadi Foquin as a sister city. It's weak on the merits as Wadi Foquin is a small village that has nothing in common with the city of Alameda. Citizen diplomacy is usually done between cities of similar size and geography.

While I assume the people proposing this have good intentions, the reality is this will be a dog whistle heard loud and clear by anti-semites around the region and country.

Anti-semitism is spiking in the Bay Area
and the United States. Synagogues in the
Bay Area have received bomb threats. Our synagogue in Alameda has to pay for security for every event - including ones that only involve young children. What other entity in Alameda - religious or otherwise - has to pay for security to merely congregate in person?
Making this designation does not promote peace but will empower and platform the people who view Jews as others. I expect our leaders to protect our community and not take contentious political stands in which our city should have no position. Please do the right thing.

Dan Laufer
Alameda Resident
From: Rick Weisman
To: CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Vote NO on proposal to make Wadi Fouquin asisyer city to Almeda Date: Friday, March 14, 2025 11:11:47 PM
Gentlemen
This is another initiative from BDS supporters to destroy Israel. and spread antisemitism across the US.

Wadi Foquin is another terrorist village in the west bank. A place where children are brainwashed from age zero to hate and kill Jews wherever possible. In December 2024 a Jewish woman with her daughter (3 years old) made a wrong turn on the road and by mistake entered the village of Wadi Fouquin. Immediately a local car tailgated her. She tried to escape but her car slided and she was stuck. Luckily she was able to call her husband who called the army for help. An army unit came to the rescue and she was brought home. This was a good outcome. Unfortunately during 2024 46 Jews were murdered in the vicinity of this village by Palestinian terrorists from villages and towns in the West Bank. 337 Jews were wounded and many of them became disabled for life. The Palestinian propaganda is telling the world a fake story of peaceful villagers. Wadi Fouquin is one of these stories. If you do not believe me try to get a car and drive on the roads in the west bank (with Israeli license plate) to Wadi Fouquin. Get out of your car and stroll in the peaceful village wearing a Jewish symbol (Kipa, Star of David etc). You may or may not come back alive. Then decide if you want to be a sister city of Wadi Foquin, Jenin, Hebron and many more.

ENOUGH IS ENOUGH WITH HAMAS PROPAGANDA IN AMERICA
.

From: David Nayfeld
To: CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Urgent: Oppose Alameda’s Sister City Proposal with Wadi Foquin Date: Friday, March 14, 2025 9:57:02 PM
Dear Alameda City Council Members,
I am writing to strongly urge you to oppose the proposal to establish a sister city relationship with Wadi Foquin, a small village in the West Bank. This initiative is not about cultural exchange but is instead a politically charged effort led by proponents of the BDS movement, designed to push a one-sided narrative that does not reflect the values of Alameda’s diverse and inclusive community.

Alameda’s sister city program should foster mutual understanding and meaningful partnerships based on shared civic goals, population compatibility, and common interests.

Wadi Foquin, a village of approximately 1,300 residents with limited infrastructure and capacity, does not meet Alameda’s own sister city criteria. Additionally, this designation will not foster genuine cross-cultural engagement but will instead serve as a tool for advocacy that risks deepening divisions within our community.

For those interested in engaging with Wadi Foquin, existing organizations already provide avenues for such interaction without the need for an official sister city designation. Alameda’s City Council should not use its platform to make political statements on complex international issues that do not serve the best interests of our city.

I urge you to reject this proposal and keep Alameda’s sister city program focused on relationships that foster true cultural, economic, and educational exchange—rather than those that promote political controversy.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to your leadership in ensuring Alameda remains a welcoming and inclusive community for all.

Sincerely,
David Nayfeld (Alameda Resident)
From: Donor Search
To: CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please oppose Wadi Foquin resolution Date: Friday, March 14, 2025 9:56:49 PM
Dear Councilmembers:

I moved to Alameda from San Francisco 7 years ago to raise our family. We moved here for the safe community and schools. We wanted to raise our child in an environment where we can build friendships with our neighbors and feel safe as a Jewish family.

I understand that on Tuesday you will vote on a proposal to establish a sister city relationship with Wadi Foquin, a village in the West Bank, on the Israel-Palestine border.

An area that has a lot of negative political attention and has created much divide in our country and local community.

It is clear that the idea of having Wadi Foquin as a sister city is only to adopt some kind of foreign policy and advance a narrative against Israel and Jewish people, a narrative which will only serve to deepen division in our community and does nothing to help the City of Alameda with its important objectives in creating a successful, safe, and diverse community here on the island.

Our local government should focus on local matters, which there are plenty of. But if the city council wants to make globally political statements, why only focus on Israel-Palestine, why not on Sudan, Russia, Ukraine, or even England or Germany? If the people of Alameda want to be involved in global issues – they can and should through the many organizations that are involved in those issues, or through contacting their U.S. senators and congressmen/women. However, we did not elect a City Council to form a foreign policy – we elected a City Council to focus here, at home, on making Alameda a safe place that is not filled with turmoil and hatred. Our island has issues with crime, homelessness, education, roads, parks – in short – plenty to work on, without spending valuable community members’ and City Council members’ time on issues that are clearly not within the expertise or area of authority of Alameda’s elected leadership.

I ask that you please focus your efforts on issues that matter to our community and are within your jurisdiction and let the State and Federal government members focus on what is in their jurisdiction.

Thank you,
ASB

From: Julia Bruce
To: CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] No Wadi Foquin Sister City
Date: Friday, March 14, 2025 9:16:18 PM
Hello,
I have been a resident of Alameda since 1985 and I oppose Wadi Foquin becoming a sister city of Alameda.

Thanks you,
Julia Bruce
510-918-7928
From: Sherri Goldsmith
To: CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] STOP sister city NOW
Date: Friday, March 14, 2025 3:56:40 PM
Wadi-Foquin is a terrible dangerous choice.

Please do NOT vote for this.

Thank-you
Friends of Alameda County
From: Andrew Kaufman
To: CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Wadi Foquin Not Compatible with Alameda Date: Friday, March 14, 2025 2:27:23 PM
My name is Andrew Kaufman and I’m a Jewish resident of Alameda, father of four children, living in the East End.

Your proposal to make Wadi Foquin a sister city makes no sense. It will divert valuable time and resources that could be better used addressing real issues impacting the local community.

Our energy could better serve the community by focusing on constructive steps that support all traumatized communities. This proposal is not about cultural exchange and Wadi Foquin is not a compatible sister city for Alameda. It is a village of approximately 1,300 people with limited infrastructure and capacity, which does not meet Alameda’s own sister city guidelines that require compatibility in areas such as population size, geography, industries, or shared civic goals. Stop this nonsense. Thank you for your time.

Andrew Kaufman
From: Bryan Schwartz
To: CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Please oppose Wadi Foquin resolution Date: Friday, March 14, 2025 2:25:08 PM
Dear Councilmembers:

I am a 15-year Alameda resident and have been active with City affairs. I am a civil rights attorney with my firm based in Oakland.

I understand that on Tuesday you will vote on a proposal to establish a sister city relationship with Wadi Foquin, a small village in the West Bank. Wadi Foquin is not a compatible sister city for Alameda. I understand that it is a village of approximately 1,300 people with limited infrastructure and capacity, which does not meet Alameda’s own sister city guidelines that require compatibility in areas such as population size, geography, industries, or shared civic goals.

It is clear that the idea of having Wadi Foquin as a sister city is only to adopt some kind of foreign policy and advance a narrative against Israel, a narrative which will only serve to deepen division in our community and does nothing to help the City of Alameda with its important objectives in creating a successful, safe, diverse, and harmonious community here on the island. If there were an objective generally to promote peace in the Middle East – which, it seems to me, is not really an Alameda City Council issue – then it would maybe make sense to adopt sister cities that are similar to Alameda in size, etc., in both Israel and in the Palestinian territories. But, again, I don’t really think the City should wade into tricky Middle East politics in even non-controversial ways – or, for that matter, get involved in other pressing international political issues, like the crisis in Sudan, the Russian war against Ukraine, etc. It is not that Alamedans should not be involved in these issues, if they care about them – of course, they can and should through the many many organizations that are actually involved in those issues, or through contacting their U.S. senators and congresswoman. However, we did not elect a City Council to form a foreign policy – we elected a City Counsel to focus here, at home, on making Alameda a comfortable place that is not so fraught with turmoil as Washington, D.C. and so many other parts of our world are today. The island has issues with development, homelessness, crime, education, roads, parks – in short – plenty to work on, without spending valuable community members’ and City Council members’ precious time away from family on issues that are clearly not within the expertise or area of authority of Alameda’s elected leadership.

Please let me know if you would like to discuss this further, and thank you for your attention.

Bryan Schwartz

Pronouns: He/Him/His
Bryan Schwartz Law, P.C.
180 Grand, Suite 1380
Oakland, California 94612
Tel. (510) 444-9300
Fax (510) 444-9301
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.BryanSchwartzLaw.com

The information contained in this transmission is attorney-client privileged, attorney work product, and/or confidential information intended for the use of the individual or entity named above. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified: of the inadvertent disclosure of this message; to return the message to its original sender and delete all copies in your possession; and, that any dissemination, distribution, or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited.

From: Patti Stein
To: CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Peaceful Coexistence
Date: Friday, March 14, 2025 1:52:59 PM
Dear Alameda Council Members,
As a long time resident of Alameda, I strongly urge you to say no to an inappropriate sister city, Wadi Foquin. This village of 1300 people does not meet Alameda’s sister city guidelines. This proposal will be hurtful to myself and my Jewish community on the Island.

Please vote No on this divisive measure.

Thank you,
Patti Stein
From: Elaine Kofman
To: CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Wadi Fogquin
Date: Friday, March 14, 2025 1:10:21 PM
Wadi Foquin is not a city. It has only 1300 inhabitants and limited infrastruture. As such
Sincerely,
Elaine Kofman
19 Sandpiper pl.

Alameda94502
From: stacy neiman
To: CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Oppose Wadi Foquin Sister City Proposal Date: Friday, March 14, 2025 12:45:08 PM
Hello,
My name is Stacy Neiman, and I live in Alameda. I am in complete opposition to establishing a sister city relationship with Wadi Foquin. This proposal is not about cultural exchange and Wadi Foquin is not a compatible sister city for Alameda. It is a village of approximately 1,300 people with limited infrastructure and capacity, which does not meet Alameda’s own sister city guidelines that require compatibility in areas such as population size, geography, industries, or shared civic goals.

Matters of foreign affairs are in purview of federal elected officials, not local officials.

Instead, please focus on constructive steps that support all traumatized communities.

Considering the ongoing trauma residents are experiencing, efforts should be directed towards bringing people together rather than creating further divisions.

Thank you for taking this request seriously.

Sincerely,
Stacy Neiman
Alameda, CA
From: Ada Gurevich
To: CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Sister city
Date: Friday, March 14, 2025 12:32:18 PM
Dear city of Alameda council,
Can we please stop this hypocrisy? Why are you not worried about Sudan, or Syria or Afghanistan?
This proposal is not about cultural exchange and Wadi Foquin is not a compatible sister city for Alameda. It is a village of approximately 1,300 people with limited infrastructure and capacity, which does not meet Alameda’s own sister city guidelines that require compatibility in areas such as population size, geography, industries, or shared civic goals.

Your city Jewish/Israeli population is paying a lot of taxes! From: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft
To: Sarah Henry; Lara Weisiger; Jennifer Ott
Subject: Fw: [EXTERNAL] Support for Wadi Foquin Sister City Proposal Date: Thursday, March 13, 2025 6:11:07 PM
Letter of support.

Marilyn
Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft
Mayor, City of Alameda
510-747-4745
From: Deborah Goldberg <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, March 13, 2025 9:33 AM
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Support for Wadi Foquin Sister City Proposal

Dear Mayor Ashcraft,
I’m thrilled to see the Wadi Foquin Sister City proposal included in the consent calendar for March 18th.

Building people-to-people relationships is more important than ever, and I believe this partnership offers a meaningful opportunity to promote peace and mutual understanding.

As a Jewish parent of two AUSD students, I see this as a unique and valuable way to foster cross-cultural connections in our community.

Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to celebrating our newest Sister City relationship with you on the 18th.

Sincerely,
Deborah Goldberg
Alameda Resident
From: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft
To: Sarah Henry; Lara Weisiger; Jennifer Ott
Subject: Fw: Sister City Proposal
Date: Thursday, March 13, 2025 6:08:10 PM
Attachments: Wadi Foquim-Sister City.docx
Letter of support.

Marilyn
Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft
Mayor, City of Alameda
510-747-4745
From: Wendy Horikoshi <[email protected]> Sent: Thursday, March 13, 2025 11:18 AM
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Sister City Proposal

Please see attached letter

Take good care,
Please Observe Women’s History Month,
Wendy
Wendy C. Horikoshi, M.S.

Leadership Coach & Trainer

Envision & Achieve Your Goal
www.transformativeleadership.net
(510) 913-4434 cell
pronouns: she/her

“Turning down the volume of the elites’ chatter, we must train our ears to listen harder to hear the vibrant voices and lyrical leadership of grassroots folk on the bottom, the foundation rock of mass movement.” -Miriam Ching Louie, Asian American Activist

“There was an assumption that those who were trained were not trained to be part of the community, but to be leaders of the community. This carried with it another false assumption—that being a leader meant that you were separate from and apart from the masses, and to a large extent, people were to look up to you and that your responsibility to the people was to represent them. This means that the people were never given a sense of their own values.” -Ella Baker, Black Civil Rights Activist March 13, 2025
mezzyashcra�@alamedaca.gov

The Honorable Mayor Ashcraft,
Thank you for placing the Wadi Foquin Sister City proposal on the consent calendar (for Mar. 18th!)
We believe that Wadi Foquin enables us to build the very kind of relationships - people to people - that are needed at this critical time, particularly to promote peace and further understanding. We think the relationship building that the City of Alameda has made over the past years—with cities from other countries, with people from other cultures- differently abled, renters and homeowners and unhoused, visible and invisible differences have represented our values and shows your leadership.

These acts have broadened perspectives and helped our community to become more knowledgeable, understanding of the human condition and more competent in serving our Alameda community.

Our church, Buena Vista UMC and the entire California-Nevada United Methodist Conference, has prioritized relationship with the sister city of Wadi Foquim and it has helped us to understand the history of the West Bank and Gaza and crystalized our roles as citizens of Alameda and as citizens of the world.

Thank you for your consideration.

We look forward to celebrating our newest Sister City relationship with you on the 18th.

Most Sincerely,
Wendy Horikoshi Peter Horikoshi
Wendy and Peter Horikoshi
Alameda Residents

From: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft
To: Lara Weisiger; Sarah Henry; Jennifer Ott
Subject: Fw: [EXTERNAL] sister city
Date: Thursday, March 13, 2025 6:04:51 PM
Attachments: mayor ashcraft sister city.pdf
Letter of support.

Marilyn
Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft
Mayor, City of Alameda
510-747-4745
From: marcy voyevod <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, March 13, 2025 1:52 PM
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] sister city

Dear Mayor Ashcraft,
Please see attached letter supporting Wadi Foquin as our new sister city.
thank you,
Marcy Voyevod
--
marcy voyevod
510.325.4310
www.marcyvoyevodstudio.com
@marcyvoyevodstudio
Dear Mayor Ashcraft,
I am so excited that the Wadi Foquin Sister City proposal is included in the consent calendar for Mar. 18th!
I believe that Wadi Foquin enables us to build the very kind of relationships - people to people - that are needed at this critical time, particularly to promote peace and further understanding.

As a member of the Alameda Friends and Family for Cease Fire, I hope that we will be able include Wadi Foquin as another one of our Sister Cities. I am a full time artist living in a restored West End craftsman bungalow for the past 29 years. I try to volunteer with the West End Arts District and any other organizations that needs donations or volunteering.

Thank you for your consideration.

I look forward to celebrating our newest Sister City relationship with you on the 18th.

Sincerely,
Marcy Voyevod
Alameda Resident
From: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft
To: Sarah Henry; Lara Weisiger; Jennifer Ott
Subject: Fw: [EXTERNAL] Wadi Foquin sister city proposal Date: Thursday, March 13, 2025 5:07:39 PM
Good Afternoon,
Forwarding an opposition email.

Marilyn
Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft
Mayor, City of Alameda
510-747-4745
From: beto -- <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, March 13, 2025 3:00 PM
To: Michele Pryor <[email protected]>; Tracy Jensen <[email protected]> Cc: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Wadi Foquin sister city proposal

Dear Michele, Tracy and Mayo Ashcraft,
My name is Roberto Gyemant and I am a resident and homeowner in our lovely Alameda since 2012, born and raised in San Francisco. I am raising two children here and love our inclusive community! I shook my head - along with a lot of the country - when the Oakland City Council (and Berkeley) put on the circus show of demanding a ceasefire immediately after Hamas took Israeli civilians hostage, and allowed a long line of people with POVs definitely outside of the mainstream to voice their opinions on how it was the Israeli civilians fault - including the elderly, women and their babies - to have been butchered and kidnapped!
I noted that neither of these City Councils had anything to say about the Civil War in Syria that killed over half a million people, likewise that in Yemen with a similar amount murdered, likewise Libya... only Palestine, which holds such a special place in the global left wing's heart. Or is it Jews that hold a special place of hatred in many of their hearts? Only they can tell us.

Oakland, which we all know has been (being kind here) a basket case, whose citizens booted both the Mayor and DA recently, largely because of safety issues, doesn't have more pressing business at hand than chiming in on global geo-politics? What a laughingstock.

I consider myself left of center, by the way. I was heartened to see that Alameda did not follow suit.

Especially after a couple years ago, when I recall a AHS student invoking Hitler and antagonizing Jewish Students... tolerance is a fragile thing.

Now comes this Wadi Foquin sister city proposal that is on the Alameda City Council agenda for Tuesday, March 18. Why Wadi Foquin? Why not Marseille, Panama City, or Dhaka? Why not Haifa, indeed?
Who is driving this in Alameda? Can sane minds please come together and say keep your pet geo- political projects out of the local city government? These efforts are being made across the country and bankrolled likely by countries antagonistic to ours, to pull us apart.

Please keep Alameda a bastion of sanity in the East Bay and say no to these incessant efforts to pull us apart - and make the Jews in our community feel less secure.

I would love to discuss with you if you are so inclined, please keep doing the amazing job you are doing for our Island!
Best,
Roberto
510.499.5607
From: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft
To: Sarah Henry; Lara Weisiger; Jennifer Ott
Subject: Fw: [EXTERNAL] Excitement for Wadi Foquin to Be Our Next Sister City! Date: Wednesday, March 12, 2025 4:51:58 PM
More support.

Marilyn
Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft
Mayor, City of Alameda
510-747-4745
From: Emily Lin <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, March 12, 2025 11:41 AM
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] Excitement for Wadi Foquin to Be Our Next Sister City!

Dear Mayor Ashcraft -
I am thrilled that Wadi Foquin's Sister City proposal is finally coming back to City Council! This is really exciting.

As you know, I have been working on this possibility since our friends in the village first inquired about it almost 10 years ago!
Like you, I know the transformative impact that people-to-people relationships have on us as individuals and as collective community, always for the good. I experienced this myself when I spent 15 months in the late 90's in Gaza through the United Methodist Church. Being warmly welcomed there, learning about the history and culture, and treated as family by complete strangers throughout my time, informed subsequent commitments towards peace and justice, community building, and activism for the common good. I want this for others - my children, their friends, and the wider Alameda community. Moreover, I'm grateful that Alameda is taking seriously the vision and mission of Sister Cities as it was founded by President Eisenhower - not simply forming relationships with locales that "look like us, think like us, and act like us", or that feel "safe", but ones that invite us into real possibilities for peace-making. I recognize this as a bold move given the current landscape! I see Wadi Foquin as a Sister City offering us so much: another step towards living into our city motto:
"Everyone Belongs Here", affirmation to the many Palestinian, Arab, and Muslim families living here on the island, an invitation to reject the fear and hate that informs so much of our national conversations, and a concrete vehicle for building transformative relationships. I can't wait for all that might unfold out of this Sister City relationship! Thank you for your consideration.

Peace,
Emily
Wadi Foquin Sister City Committee member,
Alameda Resident
--
Rev. Emily Lin
(She/Her/Hers)
The information contained within this email is considered confidential unless otherwise noted. Please do not forward the contents without first obtaining explicit consent. Thank you.

From: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft
To: Sarah Henry; Lara Weisiger; Jennifer Ott
Subject: Fw: [EXTERNAL] In support of Wadi Foquin sister city proposal Date: Wednesday, March 12, 2025 4:44:18 PM
More support.

Marilyn
Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft
Mayor, City of Alameda
510-747-4745
From: Hilda Poulson <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, March 12, 2025 4:36 PM
To: Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft <[email protected]> Subject: [EXTERNAL] In support of Wadi Foquin sister city proposal

Dear Mayor Ashcraft-
I am thrilled to hear that the Wadi Foquin Sister City proposal is included in the consent calendar for March 18th.

I strongly support Wadi Foquin becoming a sister city for Alameda. I think it is a seemingly small step that will have a big impact in terms of cross-cultural exchange and relationship building.

Given the organizing we've been doing in Alameda around Gaza and Palestine over the last 18 months (not to mention the years Pastor Yoshii and others have put into fostering a partnership between Alamedans and Wadi Foquin) I am confident we can count on sustained community participation in this sister city partnership long term.

If it passes, Friends of Wadi Foquin has talked about a youth soccer exchange between kids from Alameda and kids from the village. I think this would be an amazing exchange opportunity, and I am confident we'll be able to coordinate other similarly positive exchanges.

Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to celebrating our newest Sister City relationship with you on the 18th.

Sincerely,
Hilda Poulson
Alameda Resident
--
Hilda Poulson
(310) 251-9667
March 12, 2025 Dear Mayor Ashcraft - I am delighted that the Wadi Foquin Sister City proposal is included in the consent calendar for Mar. 18th! A Sister City relationship with the village of Wadi Foquin will help to build people-to-people relationships and

understanding.

Sister City relationships foster global peace and connection, and the City of Alameda can play a role! Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Paul Liotsakis Alameda Resident Dear Councilmember Boller, I am so excited that the Wadi Foquin Sister City proposal is included in the consent calendar for Mar.

18th!
I believe that Wadi Foquin enables us to build the very kind of relationships - people to people - that

are

needed

this

critical

time,

particularly

promote

peace

and

further

understanding.

As a member of Buena Vista Methodist Church, I have met members of the Wadi Foquin community

and

they

are

warm,

kind

and

surprisingly

optimistic.

couldn’t

think

better

partnership

than

with

these

fine

people.

Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to celebrating our newest Sister City relationship

with

you

the

18th.

Sincerely, Lynn Lebo-Planas Alameda Resident
Letter to City Council Member 3-12-2025
Dear Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft and selected City Council Members.

I am writing in support of making the Palestinian village of Wadi Foquin a sister city to Alameda. I am a member of Friends of Wadi Foquin and frequently join their monthly prayer circle. Therefore, I am very aware of the courage, inner strength, and industriousness of the villagers. Its amazing, since they face frequent nighttime raids by the settlers and harassment by day.

Palestinian dispossession and occupation are by design. Zionism has meant profound trauma for generations, systematically separating Palestinians from their homes, land, and each other. Zionism, in practice, has resulted in massacres of Palestinian people, ancient villages and olive groves destroyed, families who live just a mile away from each other separated by checkpoints and walls, and children holding onto the keys of the homes from which their grandparents were forcibly exiled.

Because the founding of the state of Israel was based on the idea of a “land without people, ” Palestinian existence itself is resistance. We are all the more humbled by the vibrance, resilience, and steadfastness of Palestinian life, culture, and organizing, as it is a deep refusal of a political ideology founded on erasure.

I have several close friends who are Jewish. They do not condone at all what the settlers are doing. I believe having Wadi Foquin as a sister city would increase understanding amongst many people with different points of view.

Thanks for your consideration.

Judith Pruess-Mellow, Alameda resident

From: raviv moore
To: CityCouncil-List
Subject: [EXTERNAL] Sister city vote next week
Date: Wednesday, March 12, 2025 9:55:30 AM
Dear mayor and council members,
I would like to urge you not to vote for this proposal.

I will not go into the fact that based on the sister city objectives this is not a good match, because in this case we all know it is a statement made for political reasons.

Nomatter if this is your intention or not, it will be a political move by the city of Alameda. A move that will not bring our community together, but push us apart.

Most of the Jewish community living in Alameda already feels threatened by the many anti semitic incidents over the last years. This will further increase that sense.

The group behind this proposal (or at least part of it) have used Wadi Faquin to push a political agenda, taking representatives form the village to DC, to push for a pro BDS agenda.

The intention behind their activities related to the sister city are not to develop cultural relationships, but further their political agenda.

Since you KNOW this will be a political statement you will need to decide what is important to you;
making a political statement, or do what is right to support ALL residents and keep them feeling welcomed in this town.

Your role is to improve life for the residents of our island. Saying yes to the sister city proposal will achieve the exact opposite.

Understanding this is a political statement... if you really wanted to make a statement that would promote peace and would Alameda sign with a palestinian city and a Jewish city at the same time.

Respectfully,
Raviv Moore
Alameda

Alameda City CouncilMarch 18, 2025

Alameda City Council
March 18, 2025