Friends of Ariel - City of Samaria

The summer series, "A Thousand Stars Cinema," presented by Friends of Ariel, transformed a local park into an open-air theater. Families and friends gathered under the stars to watch "Migration," a heartwarming film that follows a family of mallards trying to convince their overprotective father to take the vacation of a lifetime. Their adventurous journey takes them from New England, through New York City, in an attempt to migrate to Jamaica.

In these very tense times, it's crucial to provide a sense of normalcy for our children. Creating safe and joyful experiences helps them feel secure and cared for. The laughter of children, shared popcorn, and the vibrant community spirit made the evening truly special.

We are pleased to announce the inauguration of Ariel's new operations center, "Masada"! In a ceremony attended by Mayor Ya’ir Chetboun, city officials, government representatives, army officials, and many other distinguished guests, we celebrated the opening of this crucial facility.

The Masada center will serve as the central hub for the day-to-day operations of the municipal hotline and the city’s security teams. In times of emergency, it will become the nerve center for the city’s emergency response system.

In these challenging times, ensuring the safety and security of our city and the region has never been more critical. The establishment of the Masada Center is a significant step toward enhancing our emergency preparedness and response capabilities.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to the development of this center, including the emergency department at the Ministry of the Interior, the settlement unit at the Ministry of Defense, the army, Ariel’s economic corporation, the Ariel Development Fund, and the head of the security department who led this initiative.

Your involvement and support are vital. Together, we can create a strong community that stands ready to face any challenge. Thank you for your dedication and commitment to Ariel's safety and well-being.

Every summer, we are blessed with wonderful volunteers from South Florida Bible College who bring their energy and enthusiasm to our Summer School English camp. This year, due to the security situation, they were unable to join us in person. But we didn't let that stop us!

Eric Pinkis, American Friends of Ariel Chairman of the Board, stepped up and sent his son, Aiden, and friend, Gavi, to volunteer at the Summer School, spending an entire month in Ariel! Local families hosted them for sleeping (shout out to Ora Geller and Rechelle Hochhauser). They also spent some time with youth groups and the local soccer club - thanks Shay Bernthal!

Aiden and Gavi's dedication and hard work made a significant impact, and we are deeply grateful for their contribution. The campers had a great time, as did the teen volunteers and their local teen counselor counterparts!

Of course, our Floridian volunteers didn't forget us. They sent the boys over with a suitcase full of goodies for the campers and also had the opportunity to connect via a heartwarming Zoom call. Their unwavering support and friendship mean the world to us, and we look forward to welcoming them back next year with open arms.

Thank you to everyone involved for making this summer camp special despite the challenges. Our bond with the Florida community remains strong, and we are excited about the continued partnership and future adventures together.

We were happy to kick off the summer with a visit from Eric Pinkis to Ariel. As the new Chairman of the American Friends of Ariel, Eric demonstrated exceptional dedication by traveling to Israel during such a challenging time, during wartime when many are hesitant to visit and flights are scarce.

During his visit, Eric met with our new mayor, Ya'ir Chetboun, and various department heads to gain firsthand insight into the vital projects AFA supports in our community. We toured several projects funded by AFA over the years, highlighting the impact of our collaborative efforts.

After spending a couple days in Ariel, Eric invited Ariel's leadership and Ariel Development Fund members to join him on a visit to the communities on the Gaza border. This visit provided a unique opportunity to witness the stories of resilience and bravery of the residents and soldiers protecting our homeland.

Looking ahead, we are excited to plan for a future visit with the entire AFA board. Stay tuned!

We recently enjoyed a memorable visit from our dear friend and long-time supporter, Pastor Billye Brim, and her wonderful group. It was a day filled with learning, inspiration, and community spirit!

During wartime, many hesitate to visit, but this group came anyway, showing incredible courage and solidarity.

We began the day with a fascinating presentation about Ariel’s rich history and promising future, including a special talk from Dorit Nachman, the widow of Ron Nachman, who shared some moving memories.

Our next stop was the country club, where we admired the beautiful pool—a testament to the generosity of our many wonderful donors. This facility stands as a beacon of community support and love.

We then visited the Young Adult Center, where we had the privilege of hearing from Ariel’s new mayor, Ya'ir Chetboun. His vision and dedication to our city's youth and future left us all feeling hopeful and inspired.

Our journey concluded with a visit to the vineyards at the top of Ariel, a living fulfillment of the biblical prophecy of planting vines on the hills of Samaria. The sight was breathtaking and deeply meaningful.

The group also enjoyed a delightful lunch in the center of town, helping to support our local businesses during these challenging times. Your patronage made a significant impact on our community.

We are thrilled and deeply appreciative of having had the opportunity to host such a wonderful group in Ariel. Your support and engagement are more crucial than ever.

Thank you, Pastor Billye Brim, and all who joined us, for your unwavering support and friendship. Together, we are building a brighter future for Ariel.

Feel free to invite your friends to like and follow our page for more updates and ways to get involved in our community initiatives!

Two weeks ago the exhibition “Forever and Eternity,” opened in Ariel.

The works in this exhibition bring together artists from all over Israel who chose to focus on victories, both big and small, personal and national. The purpose of the exhibition is to lift up, to encourage, and to instill pride. Since the massacre on October 7th, there have been numerous exhibitions all over Israel mourning our losses. While these were important and necessary, now is the time to raise morale. It is the time to be thankful for the thousands of miracles, great and small, that have been part of this struggle. The Nation of Israel is the eternal nation, the victorious nation, and the nation that will be a family forever.

The exhibition “Forever and Eternity” is open for visitors, Sun-Thurs 9:00-12:00 until June 27, 2024 at the Ariel Center for Performing Arts. Curated and conceived by Ophra Shoshtari with the support of the Friends of Ariel, and the Ariel Municipality, this exhibition promises to be both moving and uplifting.

We warmly invite you to come visit and experience the beauty and inspiration of “Forever and Eternity” firsthand. Or for our overseas friends, please enjoy the following photographs.

As we celebrate this special time, we reflect on the profound significance of Passover. It's a time to remember the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt—a story of hope and freedom that deeply touches our hearts.

This year, as we gather with loved ones, our thoughts are with those still yearning for freedom, especially our hostages still being held in Gaza. The Passover story reminds us of the enduring power of hope, even in the darkest of times.

Despite the challenges facing Israel today, the themes of liberation, strength, and hope remain timeless. Just as our ancestors persevered through hardship, we draw strength from their legacy.

In every generation, we face obstacles, but we also find the courage to overcome them. Passover inspires us to reflect on the miracles of the past, the challenges of the present, and to hold onto hope for the future.

May this Passover bring you joy, peace, and the blessings of freedom. Chag Sameach

Last night, Israel faced a challenging situation as over 300 projectiles, including around 170 drones and over 120 ballistic missiles, were launched from Iran in an immense aerial attack. Explosions and sirens sounded in Ariel, prompting residents to rush to bomb shelters. Our thoughts are with all those affected by this alarming incident.

In moments of crisis, the safety and well-being of our community are our utmost priority. We're relieved to report that, thanks to swift response protocols and the resilience of our people, everyone is safe, albeit understandably shaken up.

According to the Israeli military, an impressive "99%" of the projectiles were intercepted by Israel’s aerial defense systems and its “partners.” IDF spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari confirmed that only “a small number” of ballistic missiles reached Israel, with the remaining ballistic missiles, all cruise missiles, and all drones being intercepted before reaching Israeli territory.

As we navigate through these difficult times, let's continue to support one another with compassion and solidarity. Please stay tuned for further updates and follow official channels for accurate information. Our thoughts are with everyone impacted by last night's events.

Yesterday marked a poignant moment in Ariel's history as we said farewell to Mayor Eli Shaviro and welcomed Mayor Ya'ir Chetboun along with the members of the 9th city council of Ariel.

In his heartfelt speech, Mayor Shaviro reflected on his remarkable 11 years of service, navigating through challenging times including multiple national election campaigns, the COVID-19 pandemic, and currently a war that is one of the most challenging times in our history. His dedication and leadership have left an indelible mark on our beloved city.

Under Mayor Shaviro's tenure, Ariel witnessed tremendous growth and development across various sectors. To name a few, the renovation of various education facilities in Ariel and winning a national education award. Notably, eligibility for matriculation rose to an impressive 97%, one of the highest in the country.
Additionally, Over 1,400 housing units were built, bringing thousands of new residents to Ariel.
New commercial centers and industrial areas were established and sustainability initiatives such as solar panels and electric vehicle charging stations were installed.
Revitalization of the city's community center, expansion of sports and cultural activities enriching the fabric of Ariel's community life, as well as a summer school program, an English language day camp.
Implementation of accessibility programs, garnering national recognition for environmental efforts, including first place as a recycling city.

Mayor Shaviro is most proud of the master plan he completed for Ariel's future, paving the way for continued growth and prosperity, exemplified by the groundbreaking of Ariel West, a pivotal neighborhood with strategic significance.

Together with Friends of Ariel, remarkable milestones were achieved, including the construction of a school, a youth center, the new Sheltered Workshop, parks, playgrounds, the Field Center for Entrepreneurship, and the addition of a third floor to Ariel's Sports and Recreation Complex. Work has also begun on a new educational complex - all these thanks to the generosity of Friends of Ariel.

Thank you, Mayor Shaviro, for your unwavering dedication, and best wishes to Mayor Chetboun and the new council members as they chart the course for Ariel's future.

Celebrating Purim in Ariel amidst challenging times!
Despite the turmoil of war, we gathered to commemorate the victory of light over darkness. As we read the Megillah story across the city, we were reminded of our resilience against adversity, echoing the triumph over Haman's plot to annihilate the Jewish people.

Dressing up in vibrant costumes, our streets transform into a kaleidoscope of joy! From block parties, gift packages of treats, and festive feasts with loved ones, Purim united us in merriment and solidarity.

In the spirit of giving, it was also an opportunity to extend our hands to those in need, sharing food and monetary help with the less fortunate, embodying the essence of Purim's generosity and compassion.

Together, let's illuminate these challenging times with the radiant spirit of Purim, embracing hope, unity, and celebration!

Forty years old, Mayor Ya'ir Chetboun is married to Moriah and is the proud father of five children. He is also the son of Dr. Israel Chetboun, a senior cardiologist at Meir Hospital who immigrated from France, and Deborah Shetbon, an optometrist by training who immigrated from Morocco.

Mayor Chetboun brings a wealth of experience and dedication to his new role. From his military service in one of the IDF's most elite units, to his educational experience as a school teacher and principal. His community initiatives have shown his commitment to excellence and service.

His vision for Ariel is one of growth, innovation, and inclusivity. He pledges to address critical issues such as infrastructure, transportation, and accessibility for all residents. Mayor Chetboun plans to lead the fight for solutions to traffic congestion and parking challenges, ensuring accessibility for children with special needs, families, immigrants, and people with disabilities.

Moreover, both Mayor Chetboun and his new council recognize the importance of fostering a vibrant city for young people. He plans to encourage entrepreneurship, create entertainment venues in industrial areas, and establish cultural programs for all ages. The new mayor will also prioritize business development and tourism, strengthening Ariel's place as the capital of Samaria.

Under Mayor Chetboun's leadership, Ariel will embrace its diversity and strength. He is committed to providing equitable solutions for all populations and fostering unity. With Ariel's relatively small size, he envisions creating a community model of connections, neighborly assistance, and volunteerism.

Join us in welcoming Mayor Ya'ir Chetboun and supporting his efforts to lead Ariel into a bright and prosperous future!

On February 27th, Ariel held its mayoral elections with seven candidates in contention, marking the beginning of a new era as incumbent mayor, Eli Shaviro, stepped aside.
These elections, held every five years, empower residents to shape the city's future through both mayoral and city council votes.

Now, the spotlight is on as the field narrows down to two dynamic contenders: Oren Hazan and Yair Chetboun. They've earned their place in the pivotal second round, scheduled for March 10. The outcome of this round will sculpt Ariel's path for the foreseeable future.

Let's get to know our contenders:

🔹 Oren Hazan was a member of the 20th Knesset representing the Likud party, Oren prioritizes the future generation, advocating for young people, students, and veterans. With a vision of Ariel as the capital of Samaria, he's committed to fostering development in education, transportation, culture, and sports.

🔹 Yair Chetboun sees politics as a catalyst for significant change in Ariel. With a robust background in both military and educational realms, Yair pledges to leverage his experience and proactive approach to serve the city's residents effectively. His goal? To develop inclusive programs and services for all of Ariel's diverse populations.

Stay tuned for more updates as we embark on this exciting journey towards shaping the future of Ariel together!

We have some exciting news to share with you all! Tomorrow, Tuesday, February 27th, marks a significant day not only for our city but for cities across Israel as we head to the polls for our eagerly anticipated mayoral elections. Originally scheduled for October 31st, but postponed due to the war, we're thrilled to participate in shaping our city's future.

With seven dynamic mayoral candidates in the running, the competition is fierce! To secure victory and become mayor, a candidate must amass more than 40% of the votes. Should no candidate meet this threshold, a second round of voting will take place.

While the outcome remains uncertain, one thing is for sure: whoever wins will undoubtedly have the best interests of our city at heart. We remain steadfast in our commitment to building and developing our city, striving each day to unlock its full potential.

To all our friends and partners around the world, we extend our warmest greetings and invite you to share in the excitement of our mayoral elections. Your unwavering support is invaluable to us, and we look forward to sharing the news with you as soon as the results are in!

Amidst the uncertainty and instability of these challenging times, sometimes finding solace in the familiar brings a sense of comfort. Last night, the Americans in Ariel came together in the wee hours to watch the Super Bowl, defying the odds and embracing a moment of joy and camaraderie.

With a potluck celebration starting at 1 AM, they shared laughter, good food, and the excitement of the game. Congratulations to the Chiefs and commiserations to the 49ers - it was a thrilling match indeed. But perhaps the hardest blow was felt by the Lions fans among them, who dared to dream of a Super Bowl victory, only to see it slip away in the end.

However, amidst the highs and lows of the game, the biggest cheer of the night happened when the news broke of the rescue of two hostages from Gaza.

In times of uncertainty, it's these moments of connection and shared experiences that remind us of the resilience of the human spirit. Let's cherish these moments and continue to find strength in each other as we navigate the challenges ahead.

In the aftermath of the venomous attack by Hamas on Israeli civilians on October 7, your incredible support has enabled us to raise funds for 50 vests and helmets for our local rapid response team.

These essentials are crucial in bridging the gap between incidents and formal military support, ensuring our team is well-equipped to act swiftly and effectively.

Thank you for making a real, tangible difference in safeguarding our community!

This week was truly illuminated as we welcomed Dr. Billye Brim and over 60 amazing Christians from America and several other countries to Ariel! They were welcomed by Mayor אלי שבירו - Eli Shaviro, Elad Metsuyanim, and Dorit Nachman at the Pioneers Museum. They then paid their respects at the burial place of Ron Nachman. Afterwards, we took a drive up to the Sports and Recreation Center and then broke for lunch at the local shopping center.

Dr. Billye Brim has been a dear friend and a steadfast supporter of Ariel for an incredible 25+ years. Her love for our city and its people is evident every time she graces us with her presence.

Let's take a moment to appreciate Billye Brim Ministries and all the incredible individuals who have traveled far and wide to be here. Your commitment to strengthening the bond between America and Israel is truly inspiring.

Ariel is blessed to have friends like you, and we're grateful for your continued support. Together, we stand strong!

A belated heartwarming Thanksgiving story from Ariel, where American olim continue to uphold the yearly Thanksgiving tradition!

Families special order a whole turkey from the local butcher and whip up all the classic dishes, bringing a taste of the "old country" to our new homes in beautiful Ariel.

This year, one family faced a unique challenge with so many members on reserve duty and enlisted, in addition to an all-nighter for the local youth group. They thought Thanksgiving might not happen, but guess what? Everyone miraculously was home on the Sunday before Thanksgiving! So, they decided to celebrate early. It was a race to buy, cook, and prepare, but they did it! Because, you know, it's never too early or too late to be thankful!

As we lead into the first night of Chanukah, may the lights of the menorah remind us of the triumph of light over darkness, the resilience of hope in challenging times, and the hope and belief in miracles.

Sending warm vibes of gratitude from Ariel. Let's cherish every moment and remember, there's always time for thanks and love.

We are so pleased to have created a new version of our original song, "Bring Them Home". 25 years ago, "Bring Them Home" resonated with a call to bring Jews to the promised land. Today, the song takes on new meaning with 240+ kidnapped individuals on our minds.

Israeli singer, Dikla, volunteered to reimagine the music and sing this song that was written for and performed by Ariel's Young People together with the children of Ariel's elementary schools.
Check out the video clip and share it as much as you can to help us create greater awareness and support for this urgent cause that has touched each and every one of us.

Praying the hostages will soon be returned to their homes and their families, we extend to you our thanks for helping to Bring Them Home.

Our dear friends, Tom and Ginnie, recently traveled all the way to Israel and made their customary stop in Ariel. But this time, it was extra special!

For two decades now, Tom and Ginnie have been dedicated to bringing joy and creativity to the lives of seniors in our community. Ginnie's art projects have been a source of inspiration and connection for so many, and this year, their visit couldn't have come at a better time.

In these unusual and challenging times, when life has taken an unexpected turn and people find themselves isolated, Tom and Ginnie's arrival was like a ray of sunshine.

It's amazing to see the power of art in action. The smiles on the faces of our seniors and the sense of togetherness created by this project were simply priceless. 🎨💖

Tom and Ginnie, we can't thank you enough for your unwavering dedication to our community. Your love and support have made a significant impact on so many lives, and we are truly grateful for your ongoing commitment.

Let's all take a moment to express our gratitude to these wonderful individuals for their kindness and compassion. 🙏🤗

Year after year, the Ariel "Spotlight" choir has discovered solace and unity in the timeless anthem, "Amen." This song, a staple in every international delegation performance, holds a profound place in our hearts.

In this rendition of the song, when our entire nation was grappling with the weight of tragedy, all Spotlight singers, past and present, were invited to come together and perform. This remarkable gathering included those who lent their voices to this song two decades ago as Lahakon Ariel. Ages ranging from 13 to 35, with many currently serving in the reserves, they joined forces to create this heartfelt project.

A heartwrenching moment for Ben Ashwal, the Spotlight musical director and a former singer in the choir himself, was captured in a photograph from Kibbutz Be'eri, where soldiers found a set table for a Shabbat lunch amidst destruction. One soldier embraced another, tears streaming down their faces.

The core message of "Amen" resounds with the shared hope for an end to the turmoil. We must consciously choose to focus on the strength that unites us, rather than dwelling on the sadness that threatens to break us.

See the previous post to watch the "Amen" video or follow the YouTube link in the first comment.

A Letter from the Mayor:

Dear Friends of Ariel,

Israel is at war. Over 1,300 Israeli civilians and IDF soldiers have been murdered and over 3000 people injured. Close to 200 people have been kidnapped including many women and young children who are being held captive in Gaza.

As the people of Israel attempt to recover from the horrors of the atrocities committed by barbaric Hamas terrorists and the rising death toll, our heroic IDF soldiers continue to fight. But because of the surprise element of the attack, the real heroes who fought and defended their communities until the Israeli soldiers reached them were the Emergency First Responder teams in each of the southern communities.

Even here in Ariel, there have been attempted incursions by Arab terrorists, but we have an outstanding team of First Responders who will defend Ariel in every eventuality. They are our heroes, and we want to be sure that they are well protected so that they can, in turn, keep the people of Ariel safe. To do this, we must provide them with essential equipment to do their job. Sadly, today we are missing many of the necessary tools to enable them to fully protect Ariel.

Every Israeli community has suffered losses, including Ariel. Sadly, a number of Ariel residents were murdered by Arab terrorists, IDF soldiers from Ariel who fought for this country and beautiful young women who were at the peace concert, in the South.

But through all the darkness, the strength and resilience of our residents shine through. Ariel stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of the Israeli people, who, in times of adversity, stand united to protect our beloved homeland.

We need your help. Your support and generosity will make a world of difference to us, as we work to navigate these difficult times.

Today, we are reaching out to you with an urgent appeal for assistance. We need your support for two critical initiatives that are integral to our community's well-being and safety.

1. Emergency First Responders: These are the local heroes who serve as our first line of defense, safeguarding our community, Ariel residents who volunteer to patrol and protect our homes, families, and children, and are willing to risk their lives to keep them safe. Today, we need to expand the team and provide them with additional protective equipment. Your contributions will help ensure their safety, allowing them to continue their vital work in protecting all of us from harm.

2. Emotional Support and Trauma Relief: The recent horrific attacks and the knowledge that we are at war have already taken a toll on the mental and emotional well-being of many within our community, both children and adults. Loss, trauma, fear, and the uncertainty of what lies ahead have created overwhelming levels of stress. Your support will enable us to bring in more professional staff to provide much-needed emotional support and resources to those who have suffered trauma.

By supporting these initiatives, you are not only helping to keep our brave protectors safe but also offering a lifeline of hope and strength to those who are grappling with the emotional toll of conflict.

We know that your concern for Israel and Ariel runs deep, and we are grateful for your unwavering support. Together, we can continue to stand strong and united and support Israel in this existential struggle.

In friendship and gratitude,
Mayor Eli Shaviro

Kativa V'chatima Tova - You should be signed and sealed for a good year!

We are reaching out to request your support for our Refa Na Campaign - a Lifesaving Medication Fund.

Refa Na is a local lifeline for those who find themselves in the agonizing position of choosing between essential medications, electricity, or even putting food on the table. It is a testament to the power of compassion, run entirely by volunteers and fueled solely by donations from individuals like you.

As we approach Yom Kippur, the holiest day of atonement and reflection, we are reminded of the profound impact of tzedakah.

Your donation can be a beacon of hope for those in our community who are struggling to access the medications they need to survive.

In the merit of your donation, may you be signed and sealed for a good New Year, filled with good health, happiness, and success.
May we always find ourselves on the giving side of things.

Step into the enchanting world of "A Thousand Stars Cinema," presented by the Friends of Ariel. The August movie season kicked off with a special screening of "Mummies," and the joy was shared by everyone in attendance. The excitement was tangible as we gathered to embark on this cinematic journey together.

Anticipation is already building for our upcoming movie night featuring "DC Super League of Pets," set to take place next week.

Beneath the starlit night sky, the ambiance was simply perfect. Attendees brought their coziest mats, softest pillows, and lightweight summer blankets, setting the stage for a comfortable and unified experience.

Our delightful popcorn stand elevated the experience, and adding a touch of nostalgia, our delightful cotton candy brought smiles to everyone's faces.

As we reflect on these wonderful evenings, we're grateful for the connections made, the cinematic enchantment shared, and the delightful treats that enriched our time together. Thank you for being part of this cinematic journey, making it a truly joyful experience!