Yom Shabbat
Saturday
18 Av 5783
August 5 2023
Following in our customary tradition, we at OneIsrael are not publishing a blog on Shabbat but are instead offering a few photos for your consideration:
Photo 1.
It was announced yesterday that the Red Metro line will finally open on August 18. Construction began in 2009 with the opening date initially set for 2013. Endless delays have beset the project since then. The Red line will run above and below ground through Petah Tikva, Bnei Brak, Ramat Gan, Tel Aviv, and Bat Yam. Originally, the entire trip was supposed to have taken 60 minutes–but now it will take 90 minutes because of above ground safety issues with the rails and traffic lights. The cost will be 6.15 shekels not to be paid by the first rider–PM Netanyahu.
Photo 2.
Endless smuggling on the Jordanian-Israeli border through the Arava. Yesterday, fighters from the IDF, Negev YSM, and undercover Border Guards captured 2 suspects who had 30 Glock pistols with ammo clips valued at 1,200,000 shekels.
Photo 3.
One of many major fires yesterday; this one was at Gesher Arik on Road 87. It took 8 fire crews from the Galil-Golan Fire Station to subdue it. Another major fire occurred at Jordan Park. It was finally brought under control, but the Park is closed today.
Photo 4.
Never ending problems at Ben Gurion Airport. Baggage handlers called a wildcat strike yesterday. Incoming passengers had to wait for up to 4 hours to get their luggage.
Photo 5.
A photo taken by your humble servant Thursday evening just before sunset on the beach in front of our house here in Ashdod.
A student from Malawi, who had worked with an Israeli health volunteer in his country battling AIDS, came up to us as we walked down the street in the UC-Davis Picnic Day Parade and wanted to carry the Israeli flag.