Back in Beirut

Following the discovery of natural gas off the coast in international waters between Lebanon and Israel, the Israeli government is reportedly drafting a law that would impose Israeli control over the Lebanese offshore gas fields. "The government is dealing with the discovery of the natural gas fields in the Mediterranean as an Israeli discovery that no one else has a right over." an Israeli newspaper said."The executive committee in the government and Knesset are working on reaching a law that would not leave room for any Lebanese rights."

************************** World Cup! Sales of country flags have been pretty big business here. And when your team wins, amid the fireworks and blasts of firecrackers you grab that flag, jump into a car, and cruise the city for an hour or two, waving the flag, perhaps as you stand out the sunroof, and screaming, car honking. It is actually a joyously fun time. *********************** A new Dunkin Donuts has opened during the three weeks I was gone. Right on Hamra Street, with a large outdoor seating area--practically full ! ***************************** Shop sign I may have posted before but made me smile anew: Nails & Roots