Mayor Ron Nachman, longstanding Mayor of the City of Ariel, is the dedicated visionary, successful in establishing and developing the City of Ariel – Capital of Samaria. Now in his sixth term of office, Mayor Nachman has proven that a pioneering spirit, strong leadership and continued success are the tools with which an entire city can be created.

 

 

 

Mayor Nachman has succeeded in building a city in the heart of Samaria – a lifelong project unparalleled by any other individual. With an unwavering commitment, Mayor Nachman embarked on an endeavor that has spanned more than three decades. Mayor Nachman was first called upon by the government of Israel in 1974 to mobilize a group of families who would come to a barren hilltop in the heart of Samaria. Nachman went from house to house, parlor meeting to parlor meeting, to find the people who would join him as Israel's true pioneers.

 

In 1978 the first of Ariel's residents landed on the site that would later be called Ariel. With two tents the Israel's Zionistic enterprise took a giant step forward, laying the cornerstone for a reality that few expected would ever be reached. Ever the visionary, Mayor Nachman viewed every small success as a milestone. He had a clear understanding of what needed to be accomplished, along with the tenacity necessary to get the job done.

 

Over 30 years later, the man who spent time pointing to where things "would be built" can is no longer considered a dreamer. His ideas have become reality, his vision a sight to be seen. Despite anti-Israel political pressure the City of Ariel has arisen. Despite Arab terrorism the city remains strong. Despite international boycotts Ariel continues to contribute to Israel's economy. The incessant challenges have only emboldened Mayor Nachman, strengthening his commitment to the City of Ariel and to its success.

 

 

 

Mayor Nachman maintains a close connection with the city's many friends. He often shares his insights on life in Israel, the challenges that Israel faces and the ways that we could and should cope. His Messages from the Mayor, an archive of his letters to the Friends of Ariel, can be accessed at www.messagefromthemayor.wordpress.com. This new and comprehensive resource includes twenty years worth of messages. It's a fascinating journey through Israel's most modern history through the eyes of one of the men that shaped it.