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.
