Historic partnership reaffirmed with dignitaries, cultural exchange, and community celebration
In a milestone celebration of international friendship, the City of Huntington Beach proudly welcomed a delegation from its Twin City, Ramat Gan, Israel, for its first official visit. The event highlighted shared values, innovative city planning, and a commitment to strengthening cultural ties.
The day began at City Hall with Mayor Pat Burns, Councilwoman Gracey Larrea-Van Der Mark, and California State Senator Tony Strickland joining Ramat Gan Mayor Carmel Shama-HaCohen and Rishon LeZion Mayor Raz Kinstlich. Together with city officials, they created and signed the Joint Declaration of Friendship and Cooperation, establishing the long-term commitment to cultural, educational, and organizational exchange.
The visit continued with a ceremonial event hosted at the Alevy campus of Hebrew Academy by Rabbi Newman. This pivotal celebration, organized and executed by Nelli Greenspan, Director of Community and Government Outreach, together with the IGF Foundation Board members, marked the culmination of nearly two years of planning to bring the Twin Cities process to fruition. The program included dignitaries, community leaders, and residents dedicated to reinforcing the bond between Huntington Beach and Ramat Gan. Guests viewed a moving film depicting Ramat Gan’s resilience during wartime, followed by remarks from Mayor Shama-HaCohen outlining the city’s future plans, along with words from Elder Welfare Coordinator Joy Frenkiel.
Delegates also explored Huntington Beach’s forward-looking vision presented by Christopher Kennedy, Economic Development Project Manager, and City Manager Travis Hopkins. Tours highlighted AI-driven safety initiatives, advanced marine and coastal protection, and a visit to the Huntington Beach Police Department, where the police chief introduced new public-safety technologies.
The celebration concluded with a VIP reception featuring kosher wines from Amante’s Vineyard & Winery in Temecula and an official opening by Scouting America, Troop 568 from Huntington Beach, led by Ethan Greenspan, Senior Patrol Leader, who presented the colors and the Pledge of Allegiance.