In a landmark event marking the start of 2025, Middletown Township, New Jersey, embarked on a profound journey of unity and cooperation by signing its first-ever Sister City Partnership with Ofakim, Israel. This historic agreement aims to promote economic growth and provide mutual support to communities affected by terror, underscoring a commitment to resilience and cooperation.
The signing ceremony witnessed the enthusiastic participation of various dignitaries, including Mayor Tony Perry of Middletown Township and Mayor Itzik Danino of Ofakim. Adding significant support to this initiative were eminent Lakewood representatives, highlighting the deep-rooted ties between these communities. Among those present were Senator Bob Singer, Duvi Honig, Founder and CEO of the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce, Justin Flancbaum, and Lakewood Township’s Deputy Mayor Menasha Miller. Their presence not only reinforced the longstanding bond between Lakewood and Israel but also represented a powerful message of solidarity from the Orthodox community, particularly in light of recent challenges faced by Ofakim.
This Sister City Partnership is more than a ceremonial gesture; it is a testament to the shared vision of Middletown Township and Ofakim to cultivate strong cultural, educational, and economic connections. By leveraging each other's strengths and resources, the partnership seeks to stimulate economic opportunities, fostering innovation and growth that will benefit both communities.
Furthermore, this collaboration serves as a beacon of hope and support for those impacted by acts of terror. By joining forces, Middletown and Ofakim aim to provide a network of assistance that transcends geographical boundaries, offering aid and reassurance to those who need it most.
As both cities embark on this new chapter, the Sister City Partnership stands as a symbol of resilience and mutual understanding. It is a pledge to not only support each other in times of need but to also celebrate the shared values and aspirations that unite them. Through cultural exchanges, educational collaborations, and economic initiatives, Middletown Township and Ofakim are poised to create a legacy of friendship and prosperity for generations to come.
The day commenced with an exclusive breakfast in the Mayor’s conference room, attended by a distinguished gathering of legislators and community leaders. Notable attendees included state legislators, county officials, members of the NJ-Israel Commission. One of the memorable moments at the breakfast was when Mayor Danino and Rabbi Rob Tobin of B’nai Shalom, West Orange, affixed a mezuzah to the door of Mayor Perry’s conference room. This act symbolized a spiritual and cultural connection between the two cities.
Linda Scherzer, the director of the JCRC who played a key role in organizing the partnership, emphasized the deep historical and emotional importance of the solidarity between Middletown Township and Ofakim. After the tragic loss of 37 residents from Middletown during the September 11, 2001, attacks, and the heartbreaking loss of 48 residents from Ofakim due to terror on October 7, the two communities have forged a connection rooted in mutual resilience and remembrance.
The event was graced by representatives from the Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest, NJ, the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce, and an array of federal, state, and county officials.
At the Breakfast Duvi Honig, founder and CEO of the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce, presented Mayor Perry with a unique mezuzah, crafted from an Iron Dome missile. In his remarks, Duvi emphasized that this mezuzah symbolizes the enduring bond between the United States and Israel, as the Iron Dome—a defense system supplied by the U.S.—was integral in protecting Ofakim and Sederot from missile attacks. The mezuzah serves as a reminder of divine protection and international cooperation.
At the signing Mayor Perry of Middletown Township expressed hope that the newly forged alliance between Middletown and the Israeli city of Ofakim would inspire other towns across New Jersey to establish similar partnerships with the Jewish State. He emphasized that this alliance could serve as a model for enhancing the already strong relationship between the United States and Israel.
Mayor Itzik Danino of Ofakim spoke about the deep emotional bond he felt with Mayor Perry and Middletown, particularly after their visit to Ofakim following the events of October 7th. He acknowledged the support and commitment demonstrated by Middletown as a sister city and expressed gratitude for the solidarity extended to the residents of Ofakim. As the event concluded, there was a collective call for the release of all 100 hostages, underscoring the urgency and importance of forging sister city relationships and building bridges of understanding and cooperation between Middletown and Ofakim. This call to action was met with resounding applause, reflecting the shared commitment to fostering peace and mutual respect.
Concluding the signing ceremony was an emotional speech from Senator Singer, who presented a NJ Senate proclamation to Mayor Perry. He shared a personal story of loss and survival, recounting how his only daughter miraculously survived a Hamas bus bombing in Jerusalem 21 years ago.