Greetings from Asbury Park, NJ

Every time I happen to be in that part of Monmouth County, I try to drive through Asbury Park to see what has become of the town. Most New Jerseyans know it as an old shore resort that has long since outlived its glory and is now a veritable ghost town. Those buildings that haven't been torn down already have been condemned, and those that are still occupied are mostly a bunch of seedy bars, night clubs, and boarded-up businesses. I like to pass through just to see if any progress has been made in its rebirth. I have taken an interest in its rebirth, once again becoming what it was and what it should be.

It just so happened that I was in that area today, so I took a spin through the area. Well, many of the old ruins have been indeed removed. That half-built building that jutted out into the road that runs alongside the beach has been partially demolished, so that the road will once again run full-width through the area. I see a few new signs from construction companies posted on some of the empty lots, promising new construction through the area. The Palace is still cordoned off by fencing, but there is a movement to have it restored.

I hope it works, because it really is a shame to see such a jewel of a town lose its luster.