Letters (Mostly) From Newark

Newark, New Jersey can’t help but feel grim on a gray summer Sunday. I haven’t seen much of the city beyond the route from the Newark Museum to the train station, but I know the economic downturn put a stop to what was thought be its sure rejuvenation. But there's still hope. After a severe and steady downturn in population since the 1960s, the past couple of years have seen a slight uptick. And between rescuing folks from burning buildings and dogs from frigid temperatures, who knows what Mayor Cory Booker will accomplish.

As the second largest city in the New York metro area and birthplace of Philip Roth, I hope to go back and see more of Newark--especially the intact (and not-so intact) signage before it disappears with inevitable redevelopment.

Washington Florist seems to be permanently decked out for all holidays all the time. Not only is every day Mother’s Day, but you can count on Christmas in July, and the Easter Bunny too.