Sorry that this isn't illustrated.  There have been problems with the a7 picture upload.
Over the years, various Israeli governments and foreign leaders have threatened our existence, but, Baruch Hashem, thank G-d, we've continued to thrive and grow.

Remember I post much more frequently on Shiloh Musings and me-ander, so you can visit there and read.  Thanks

Recently, my Shiloh community has hosted American Jews who are planning on making aliyah and moving here. Last week's couple have begun the process of purchasing one of the houses under construction. And another family is here this week, trying out the community and school.

Prior to this, my innate cynicism caused me to say that when things are good in America the Jews don't want to leave, and when it's bad, they can't afford to. I'm glad, actually overjoyed, to admit that I'm wrong.

There are American Jews who see Obama's election as a dangerous trend for the United States and bad for the Jews. For those who want a comfortable, socially, physically, spiritually, life, the yishuvim in Judea a Samaria are an excellent option. They don't take extreme Left wing pro-Arab Peace Now very seriously.

Our housing prices look like a steal to Americans, not only compared to the states, but also to Jerusalem, Gush Etzion, Beit Shemesh and other popular locations. Shiloh is just a half hour by car to both Jerusalem and Petach Tikvah. Our local school is to the 8th grade and has a good reputation. No air pollution, and the views are gorgeous. We have a supermarket, vegetable stores, a clothing/toy store, plumber, electrician, a variety of synagogues and two medical clinics. And there's bus service. And there's lots more.

My neighbors come from all over the world. There are a surprising number of English speakers for those who are afraid of a totally Hebrew environment. Actually, there's so much going on in English, that a oleh chadash, newcomer has to make an effort to learn Hebrew in some neighborhoods. But the kids all socialize in Hebrew.

When we came to Shiloh almost twenty-eight years ago, we were the only Jewish community in the area. Now, there are many, many more, such as Eli, Ma'ale Levona, Shvut Rachel and all the smaller ones, which are so numerous, I wouldn't attempt to list them.

Over the years, various Israeli governments and foreign leaders have threatened our existence, but, Baruch Hashem, thank G-d, we've continued to thrive and grow.