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Celebrate Israel's 62nd Anniversary on May 2 With Israeli Music, Food, Fine Art and Marketplace

Celebrate Israel's 62nd Independence Day on May 2, when Bedford Middle School is transformed into a lively Israel festival.

From noon to 4 p.m., enjoy music, food, dancing, and a vibrant marketplace of unique Israeli wares, from Dead Sea skincare products and gourmet food items, to handcrafted jewelry and crafts, to original fine art. Shop a wide selection of books for all ages on Israeli and Jewish topics. Sample authentic Mediterranean delights from a kosher Israeli concession.

"Celebrating Israel's 62nd anniversary is an opportunity to recognize this nation as one of our closest allies and friends, and its people for their contributions across cultural, scientific, medical and business spheres of endeavor," said Richard Blumenthal, Connecticut Attorney General. "Locally, the Israel Fair in Westport enables people from all walks of life to 'get a taste of Israel,' here in Connecticut."

This year, the Israel Fair will feature Aviram Fine Art, an exclusive line of lithographs, serigraphs, originals, and reproductions by some of Israel's most renowned artists. UJA/Federation's Israeli Young Emissaries, teens who live in the community on a one-year exchange program, will host an authentic "sula" or lounge just for teens, featuring contemporary Israeli rock music and games, and an opportunity to help Israeli arts organizations that serve teens. Younger children will enjoy arts & crafts and games, and can build a large-scale Lego model of the Old City of Jerusalem.

The day will be filled with music. In addition to roving klezmer musicians Sruli and Lisa, and the Temple Shalom (Norwalk) children's chorus, the fair will feature Magevet, the premier Jewish, Hebrew, and Israeli a cappella group of Yale University. On national and international tours, Magevet has earned widespread renown for its varied, innovative repertoire and its warm, interactive performance style.

"We are delighted to once again host this wonderful community-wide celebration," says Steve Friedlander, executive director of UJA/Federation Westport Weston Wilton Norwalk. "This is a fun and meaningful way for families to come together and enjoy a taste of Israel for a day."

Admission is $5 per person, $20 per family of four or more, and no charge for children ages 4 and under. No reservations or advance tickets are required. For more information: www.ujafederation.org or (203) 226-8197

UJA/Federation WWWN is the central planning and fundraising organization for the local Jewish community. Its mission is to help improve the lives of our extended family at home, in Israel, and around the world.