Staff photo / Bob Coupland Liron Daniel, Israel engagement/program coordinator for the Youngstown Area Jewish Federation, and Michael Shener of Youngstown, spend time celebrating with others Sunday at the 78th annual Israel Independence Day at the Jewish Community Center of Youngstown. More than 100 people attended.

YOUNGSTOWN — Those entering the Jewish Community Center on Sunday afternoon knew it was a time for celebrating as decorative signs, hats and flags could be seen to note the 78th anniversary of Israel’s independence.

Independence Day was marked with food, music, displays and games. Two large rooms at the center were used for the celebration.

The Jewish Community Relations Council of the Youngstown Area Jewish Federation and the Zionist Organization of America hosted the Yom Ha’atzmaut celebration.

Lisa Long, CEO of the Youngstown Area Jewish Federation, said she hoped the day helped provide information about Israel to the public.

“There is so much misinformation and negativity in the media about Israel right now. It is wonderful to be able to tell and show the truth and beauty of Israel. We have many families and our children volunteering today. This helps people to be more proud of their Jewish connection to Israel,” Long said.

She said the event was open to anyone who wanted to celebrate and learn more about Israel.

Liron Daniel, event organizer and Israel engagement/program coordinator for YAJF, said the celebration included a chef, Yuval Rov, who prepared a variety of Israeli food and desserts for the public to sample, a photo booth, and 17 stations with different games and activities related to cities and sites in Israel.

“We created a journey through Israel with the different stations and activities. We want people to celebrate Israel’s independence and enjoy themselves,” Daniel said.

The station activities included a Sea of Galilee ring toss, Israeli Air Force challenge, Dead Sea Golf Challenge and Galilee jump. Those who took part in activities at each station received passport stickers.

Daniel said in May 1948, the United Nations declared Israel the state for the Jews after World War II. She said she wants everyone to experience Israeli culture and learn more about Israel through the games, food and activities.

Several people at the event had special blue and white flags attached to their heads called boppers. There also were special hats with the Israeli flag on them.

The flags included the Star of David.

Melissa Bateman, director of community engagement for YAJF, said the Israeli celebration is similar to when the United States celebrates the Fourth of July.

“This event helps the children to gain a sense of identity and understand their Jewish roots,” Bateman said.

Liberty residents Claudia Moss, Sally Blau and Alice Franklin said they were excited about the celebration and all there was to do.

“The food is great and you can spend time with others enjoying the music,” Franklin said.

The Jewish Community Relations Council represents the Jewish communities of Mahoning and Trumbull Counties in Ohio and Mercer and Lawrence Counties in Pennsylvania to safeguard the rights of Jews here, in Israel, and around the world.