It’s the essence of hometown, the hub of local buzz, the street of strong opinion. It’s where shoppers vote with their feet — and credit cards — about what’s hot and what’s not. It’s where lifetime residents linger over breakfast and up-and-comers meet for lunch. It’s where the waitress knows “your usual” and the dry cleaner knows exactly how you like your shirts pressed. It’s the home of hotdog stands, coffee shops, 3rd generation shoe stores and haberdasheries. It’s where you bought your first — and fifth — refrigerator, bicycle, piece of fine art, and pair of expensive earrings. It’s a trial-by-fire-testing ground for hopeful entrepreneurs, a tried-and-true home base for successful business owners. It’s where mom and pop shops come to live or die. It’s got the sidewalks skateboarders love, and the crosswalks pedestrians and motorists ignore. It’s where the past, present and future meet. It’s where local history shines and innovation revitalizes. In the winter it sparkles wi...
— People, places, experiences and transformational moments I'll never forget