The Khudarji Report 06

The Khudarji Report 06: 11/07/09

Immature apples have arrived, as have pears; the Lebanese fig crop has started to appear. The new lemon crop has arrived as well.

The successful completion of the baccalaureate is marked by fireworks. A customer laments: "Can't they just kiss each other on the cheek instead?" A worker states: "In Syria, we exchange sweets, that's it."

The local banana season is over. Somalian bananas are currently from Ecuador and carry the Avanti label. Mangoes are from Ghana and are at 10,000 LL/kilo.

A meal: watermelon, halloum cheese, khibz.

Fruits and vegetables set aside as unsellable are negotiable; for the most part this means that those who ask may take what they need.

The Khudarji Report, by Zayd, reflects conditions unique to a neighborhood in central Beirut; the status at your local mahal al-khudra will most likely vary.