American Friends of Ariel Dinner
 The American Friends of Ariel (AFA) annual Peace with Security Dinner began with a private briefing for Christian Zionist leaders who had traveled from all over the U.S. by former Chief of Staff, Lt. General Moshe Ya'alon and expressed their support for Ariel.
"This is an evening in honor of the partnership between Christian and Jewish Zionists" stated Harry Posin, Chairman of AFA, "and tonight's honorees, Regina Blanz and Lynne Wines represent that partnership". Temple Beth Am Spiritual leader, Rabbi Plotkin and Christian Zionist leader Pastor Billye Brim extended words of inspiration to over 300 guests who attended this very special event.
 Lt. General Ya'alon spoke of the threat of Islam facing all western civilizations. The Israeli army is very strong," he said, "and many of our enemies attack civilians in order to avoid engaging the IDF. It is important to understand that our enemies' goal – be it Hamas or Iran – is the destruction of Israel and we must not ignore this threat."
The Dinner was highlighted by two very special gifts: a surprise donation made by Ariel friend, Victoria Hearst, to fund the swimming pool of the new Sports & Recreation Complex in honor of Dr. Billye Brim and a generous challenge grant by honorary dinner Chairman, Norman Braman. "Lt. General Ya'alon did a superb job of explaining the strategic implications of Ariel" Braman pointed out. Because of Ariel's importance, he asked dinner guests to lend their support through matching gifts.
Ariel Attracts
Thousands of Tourists
 That same week VICTORIA HEARST came to Ariel with the staff of Ridgway Christian Center. Victoria is a long-time friend and supporter of Ariel. She donated the tennis courts, funded the expansion of the Sheltered Workshop, and annually supports the Victoria Center for Handicapped Children. In addition to visiting these services and facilities, her group enjoyed a performance by "For Zion's Sake", Ariel’s teenage singers and dancers. In keeping with her belief in the importance of helping the people of Israel, Victoria Hearst chose to help the city deal with several special social welfare needs.
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