Others wandered by booths filled with the works of local artists and information from a number of Jewish organizations. Still others awaited the results of raffles they had entered. Now I come every year. I can remember one time being in Stern Grove when the peace talks were going on with Egypt. There were threats of bombs and security guards everywhere.
Today seems a lot more free.
There really is an atmosphere of peace. The South Peninsula youngster joined others in writing and sending birthday wishes to Israel. First-time Israel Independence Day participant Beth Lederer, who moved to San Francisco from New York six years ago, called the day a great way to feel part of the Jewish community. On Sunday, she found herself volunteering to greet newcomers in front of the JCC information booth, encouraging others to become active participants in the Jewish community. A teen consultant with the Israel Experience, Khavul aims to help increase Bay Area teens' travel to Israel.