Stromata

Another very hot day. This time there'll be no miracle of the rain. We'll have to bear with this heatwave through the summer. One thing for sure ... the ice cream shops are making alot of money!!!

With the new right-wing / ultra-orthodox coalition in the govt, things are beginning to change ... in their direction. Kashrut inspectors are springing surprise checks into restaurants to see if they meet up to strict kosher laws. 2 inspectors were sacked because of their laxed inspections. The rabbis are tightening the noose now that they're in power in the govt. Scary. Don't know how long we'll enjoy chinese food or burgers or sushi once the kosher laws get tighter.

My first lilies blooming this year

I heard there was a big fight in the Christian Quarter last SUnday but wasn't sure what it was all about. Yesterday I got more news, and the local papers did carry an article on it: big fight between christian and muslim youths, several injuries and arrests. Apparently there were some christian girls dressed in a way that some passing muslim guys began making catcalls; christian guys came out and started beating them up, muslims called for reinforcement and an all-out fight started. Same story recycled each year.

Bit of a mixed emotion day ... had a surprise visit from a good friend and colleague, Tiago, from years past. He was my cameraman and editor when I was director of the Media Center; then he went back to Brasil and got married, has a baby girl ... and this week he came back to the Holyland leading a group. It was good to meet him. Same time had to say goodbye to one of my Israeli security friends Aviho. Today is his last day on the job. However he wasn't posted in the tunnel security for well over a month now so we never actually met to say goodbye. Just a couple of messages on the phone. Hope life will treat him better with his new job. He deserves a break. He's a great friend.