by MetroWest Israel Office

Negev March in Ofakim-Merchavim (photos by Eppie Vahav)

The morning of October 29th, at precisely 8:30 Ofakim and Merchavim awoke to the site of thousands of its residents and guests, wearing 'Partnership 2000' t-shirts and holding signs, beginning their 13 km 'Partnership 2000' Negev march towards Park Eshkol. This years main slogan was one of protest against the never-ending car accident-related deaths in Israel.

Thousands of school children from the entire region, together with youngsters from absorption centers, groups of olim, South African students spending the year in Israel, soldiers from IDF regional units and representatives from the American partnered communties of NJ (MetroWest and Bergen County) all gathered at the entrance to Ofakim -to begin the long treck.

And off they happily went, with all their friends, feeling as if nothing else mattered, but to enjoy the beautiful and cheery day. Ellen Goldner - President of the United Jewish Communiteis of MetroWest, NJ marched with the group and on route the children of Ofakim and Merchavim tried their English on her.

Tired, but content the participants came to the finale at the Eshkol National Park, greeted by Partnership 2000's new song (attached) that was written and recorded especially for the event and all sat across the man-made stage and separating them was a natural pond in all its glory. The Minister of Culture, Science and Sport - MK Matan Vilnai honored the participants with his presence together with the Mayor of Ofakim - Mr. Yair Hazan, the Mayor of Merchavim Regional Council - Mr. Avner Mori, MetroWest President - Mrs. Ellen Goldner and many more community reps. Both Mayors spoke about the importance of unity of the Jewish people, the solidarity that goes both ways and the fact that MW and Bergen County developed a strong living bridge with Israel and the Southern Region. Ellen Goldner talked about how she always feels that when coming to the region its as if she were returning home and that the strong bond of 'Partnership 2000' will go on forever.

According to Goldner, "The aim of the march is to make the residents of Ofakim-Merchavim aware of the Partnership 2000 concept and the different projects and activities related to it that strengthen the ties between the communities". It connects them to the Negev, gives them a good feeling and raises a smile on their faces - all of this in spite of the very difficult economic and security situation in Israel at this time.

Heshvan 5763 - November 2002