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Models of cars
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The London-Jerusalem-Ashdod Rally
The wonderful idea of Zionism, the birth of a Jewish nation on the soil where their ancestors lived, is alive in the hearts of the many Jews scattered in all parts of the world.
They were banished from their homeland with unprecedented brutality almost 20 centuries ago. They were turned into slaves, gladiators, into objects of constant humiliation and oppression. They were turned into a stateless people, a people without civil rights. Since those ancient times, the hearts of Jews long for this tiny strip of land in the Middle East, which rascals of every denomination, under any pretense, try to legitimize for Arab peoples.
In 1998, Jews celebrated 50 years since the establishment of the Israeli state. Not all Jews returned to the young, new state.
Many have put down roots in other countries, have become established, have built successful businesses. But they are ready to help Israel to become a beautiful, strong and safe country and constantly provide help and support.
In 1998, in honor of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the State of Israel, a "London-Jerusalem" automobile rally was organized. A wonderful motor rally/show of antique automobiles! The route started in London, and passed through La Manche, France, Italy, Monte Carlo, Greece, Cyprus, and finally, Israel.
Zionists from America and England participated in the rally. There were those that rented antique autos, so that they could participate in the rally and come to their historical homeland - Israel. The rally took place over a period of 2 weeks. Thirty-six participants and 6 cars following the participants as technical escorts were involved. The rally was organized by Keren Kayemet Le Israel - a Zionist organization for the rebirth of Jewish life on ancient soil.
It is disgraceful what disgusting forms acquire any beginnings, when enthusiasts-founders leave and their place is taken over by bureaucrats. The international rally, which could have been of tremendous benefit to Israel, became a problem in the holy land.
There were attempts by zealous police officers to stop and fine the column of antique automobiles in Haifa, since the wheel in some of the automobiles was located on the right side! That is prohibited, against the law! The magnificent Rolls Royces and Bentleys were pawed in Kiriat Shmona. It's a good thing that the shiny ornaments on the cars weren't torn off as souvenirs. In Jerusalem, the city administration was busy with other things. The rally wasn't a big thing. Especially since it passed through another city authority!
Embarrassed at this treatment, Ashdod somehow tried to improve the poor impression of the rally participants of the whole country. The rally arrived at the RALEX Museum of Classic and Sports Cars in Ashdod. The appearance of the Zionists had a huge significance for our city. The mayor of the city, Zvi Zilker, along with the owner of both the museum and the RALEX Autoservice garage, Rafi Hershkowich, tried to organize a warm reception. The staff of the museum and the garage
participated.
Before the arrival of the guests from England and the United States, the entrance to the city was decorated. Sports cars, flags, decorations adorned the entrance to the city. It was a job from the heart. Zvi Zilker made a speech. Representatives of the Keren Kayemet Le Israel were present, as well as the president of MEMSI, along with the ambassadors from many countries, including England and Romania. In honor of this event, the staff of RALEX Autoservice unveiled the newly restored 1924 Dodge Brothers automobile. There was a warm lunch reception, organized by the Ashdod city
administration.
The London-Jerusalem Rally ended in Ashdod with the fantastic sight of a column of magnificent antique cars driving through the streets of a beautiful city.
A year after the international rally, while the next one was taking place, Rafi Hershkowich was invited to Jerusalem for a banquet, where the participants of the current rally gathered. Not one of the local bureaucrats was invited. Here were only real Zionists and automobile
enthusiasts.
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