Tuesday, August 14, 2007

The true key to urban renewal?

NEWARK, Aug. 13 — An unexpected thing has happened to this crime-weary city since three young friends were shot to death in a school playground nine days ago.

Political rivals have promised to work together, young men in gang attire have signed pledges to put down their weapons, and a mayor who was facing criticism from even his most devoted allies has been buoyed by a wave of sympathy and support.

[. . .]

If disaster can be seen to have even a hint of silver lining, the homicides, which have drawn news coverage across the nation, have provoked a level of outrage, and commitment to change, not seen here since the riots of 40 years ago.

Well golly. If this is what it takes to improve life in Newark then let's just have the Air Force drop a 5 megaton nuke on it and turn it into paradise.