culture

Jerusalem, old and new and constantly changing,

has been a constant theme

throughout the years at Real J Streets.

Once a derelict No Man’s Land,

a bullet-holed war zone between 1948-1967,

now Mamilla Mall is a huge success story.

Thousands of people come to shop and eat daily.

Often the parking lots are so full

that traffic backs up and honking cars are the norm.

On King George Street,

 this abandoned building

has been an eyesore for years and a home to squatters.

But in Jerusalem what a difference a month makes–

now it is gone!

 A white construction fence has appeared in its place,

which surrounds extensive excavation work.

From one opening,

you can see the Great Synagogue across

King George Street and the dome of Heichal Shlomo.

Work on the future Knesset Museum is

hidden behind these huge tarp coverings.

The difference that has occurred in a month

to the future We Work offices

at the old Mashbir site is obvious.

On the downtown Jerusalem streets,

change can be seen not only looking up,

but also be sure and look down.

Artists have produced new works

on mats laid down in busy plaza areas.

 For the best angle from which to appreciate this street art

 you have to take the time and stop.

Not enough?

Signs are up at Beit Avi Chai advertising

 neighborhood tours with story-telling.

Gan Haatzmaut, Independence Park,

has been a construction site all week.

But the barriers and the large stage to be built there for

the annual Beer Festival are only temporary.

However,

as always the end of August,

the biggest deal on the Jerusalem streets

is the first day of school tomorrow.

For working parents, childcare

during the last two weeks of summer vacation

 is often provided by grandparents and friends.

But, those without children also appreciate start of school,

as children were often brought to offices,

banks and many parents’ workplaces.

News outlets have started their annual interviews.

Yikes, now there are songs about school on radio.

The Prime Minister, President and mayors

will go to be photographed in a classroom.

I love how starting Kita Aleph, first grade,

is such a huge event in Israel.

Wishing all a good

and successful new school year.