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YOUNGSTOWN -- A replica of a marketplace and the Western Wall in Jerusalem were created inside the Jewish Community Center on Sunday for the celebration of Israel's 75th anniversary of independence.
The JCC opened its doors for six hours for the celebration that included informational exhibits, displays, music and hands-on activities.
Bonnie Burdman, director of community relations and government affairs for the Youngstown Area Jewish Federation, said the staff spent the day transforming the JCC into Israel with a large shuk, or marketplace, in a main hallway.
"This is the culmination of a yearlong celebration of 75 years of Israeli statehood. We have had many events this year, with this being a big event. We want people to have fun and enjoy a family-friendly day eating great food and listening to great music. They can shop in the Israeli shuk. They can also learn interesting facts about the state of Israel," Burdman said.
She said Israeli-themed programming will continue, but Sunday was the final big event to celebrate the 75-year milestone.
Burdman said in Jerusalem and other Israeli cities, shuks are common and open seven days per week.
Local vendors sold various items in the replica shuk.
"This lets people have a real flavor for the place they are visiting," Burdman said.
Participants were able to learn about Israel's diversity, food, art, technological advances and more through games, crafts and other activities.
One display was a video playing of the Western Wall in Jerusalem, which is six hours ahead of Ohio time. The JCC had a replica of the wall made from shoeboxes.
A large mural was painted on the pavement outside the JCC.
Boardman resident Joe Sullivan, who made balloon Maccabee swords for the event, said he has been to several Jewish community centers in Ohio this month for the 75-year celebration.
"The centers are open to all people and so many people come here and other centers. I am making blue and white Maccabee swords, which are the colors of the Jewish flag.
The Maccabees were Jews who organized a successful rebellion against the Seleucid ruler Antiochus IV and reconsecrated the defiled Temple of Jerusalem.
Youngstown resident Doug Lev said he was learning a lot about Israel by walking around the JCC.
"It's always good to be celebrating something, with a milestone like this," he said.
Tamar Sigler of Howland was a vendor in the marketplace with items such as necklaces, candles, jewelry boxes and key chains for sale.
"I love being artistic and want to show and sell what I have made. Many people come in and out of here each day so this is a good opportunity to show off their work," she said.
Gordon Moore of Lowellville, who is a member of the JCC, said the marketplace was a great opportunity to sell items.