Independence Day in Israel Will Be Marked by High Spirits, Low Budget

Israel’s 27th Independence Day next Wednesday will be characterized by high spirits and a low budget, organizers of the festivities said at a press conference here today. The theme of this year’s “Yom Haatzmaut” will be one of individual efforts for the common good. The 12 citizens who will kindle the 12 torches that mark the end of Memorial Day and the beginning of Independence Day celebrations were selected because of the personal examples they set of loyalty and dedication to the nation, Yehuda Ilan, head of the Independence Day Committee, said.

He also said that unlike past years, there will be no central Independence Day event next week but a series of local events, especially in the border settlements. Israelis will be encouraged to spend the day in the country–a “back to nature” movement–that will be aided by public transportation. Independence Day is one of the few holidays on the Israeli calendar during which public transportation operates. Ilan said that according to the latest polis, public spirits are high–much higher than last year–which should guarantee a successful celebration.

While there will be no massive military parades and displays of armed might as in some past years, several ceremonies that have become traditional Independence Day events will be observed. These include the President’s reception for 100 outstanding soldiers of the year; the World Bible Quiz in Jerusalem; the Israel Prize award ceremonies in the Jerusalem Theater; and the Presidential reception for the diplomatic corps.

EVENTS IN JEWISH COMMUNITIES ABROAD

(Preparations to mark the 27th anniversary of Israel’s Statehood are also underway in Jewish communities abroad. The official celebration in the U.S. will be sponsored by the American Zionist Federation. Israel’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Yosef Tekoah, will open it with an address Tuesday evening at the Hunter College Assembly Hall, it was announced by Mrs. Faye Schenk, AZF