JH Israel Delegation Dedicates Big Top in Ariel

On Thursday October 18 American Friends of Ariel hosted a visit for a group from the JH Ranch in California. The group’s relationship with the City of Ariel and Mayor Nachman has been a longstanding one – over 15 years of cooperation and friendship.

The purpose of this visit was for the group to get a closer look at Ariel and to focus on promoting the continued success and development of the Ariel National Leadership Development Center. American Friends of Ariel, led by Executive Director Avi Zimmerman hosted the day long visit.

The group received a tour of the city by none other than Ariel’s own mayor, Ron Nachman and included stops at the Ariel Center for Performing Arts, Ariel University, the Ariel Industrial Park and the Lowell Milken Family Sports & Recreation Complex.

The focal point of the tour was a visit to the Ariel National Leadership Development Center where the group took a hands on approach on the extreme challenge facilities such as the Alpine Tower, Climbing Wall, Low Ropes and 747.

Yet the highlight of the event was the dedication of the “Big Top” tent which began with a ceremony to affix the Mezuzah to the tent’s entrance. The ceremony was carried out by Mr. Eli Arbiv, Chairman of the Ariel Development Fund, and head of the local religious council. The evening’s entertainment was supplied by local talent with performances by Ariel’s International Folk Dancing Troupe and a local rock band.

Mike Sharp who was instrumental in organizing the development group visit spoke at the event as did JH Ranch President Bruce Johnston and JH Israel Director Heather Johnston.

Mayor Ron Nachman closed the evening by thanking the guests for coming to Ariel and supporting this unique project.