Jeremiah Avery: I've been in Newark airport and the surroundings were not that bad. At least I didn't see anyone hanging their clothes in the electricity cords .

Ed Aycock: I nearly cut my thumb because I was handling a knife while I was drunk. So yes, I think I might be getting out of control. Most of the time my biggest concern is a hangover but seems like now it's getting worse. And by the way, I'm not privileged I just happen to have a couple of rich friends and that's it.

Jodi Moisan: Believe me, I've seen much, much worse. I live in a third world contry after all. It's just that I don't get to see the ugly face of Peruvian reality on the weekends.

Juan Jose Colin Arciniega: I think drinking has become sort of the only outlet that I have... I don't feel bad when I'm drinking and the rest of the time I just have all these negative thoughts. But yes, I am drinking more than I used to and it's starting to be a problem for me and for my friends.

Geoff Gibson: I meant punching bag because of the physical pain, it wasn't a metaphor or anything like that. And I'm sorry it sounded like I was whining. I posted something similar on another message board and some people thought it was quite a funny anecdote. In fact, I wasn't talking about my personal problems, I was just describing some facts. I didn't see it as whining but I understand it might have been interpreted that way and I apologize for that. And just because I don't have my complete name and address on display it doesn't mean I'm a lier. Anyway, I appreciate the advice and again I'm sorry for upsetting you.

Pedro, after five minutes in Newark, you'll say, "Okay, time for Manhattan."

There's also a large Portuguese community in the town next to the one I grew up in.  The town's name is Ludlow and it's really boring but a lot of Portuguese settled there. 

But it does have a furniture store just over the Ludlow bridge in Ludlow. (Heh heh, Jeremiah.)

The airport itself is not in Newark but just outside it and being in the airport is vastly different than actually being in Newark.  Way too many gunshots heard and crime scene tape seen.

Newark has improved dramatically in the last 10 years -- and is continuing to improve on a daily basis.   Sorry got to defend my backyard!

I had a job in East Orange once.  Now there's a sad town.

The Ironbound section of Newark is where the Portugese community is predominantly located.  I went to a few festivals there and the restaurants are amazing!

You referring to Bob's Discount Furniture, Ed?  Either that or I'm thinking of Pieroway's.

Arc, just watch yourself.  And please, please, please never drive while drunk.

I'm ashamed to admit this but in 1999, I once got ripping drunk at a bar and drove all the way home.  Nothing happened but the scariest thing is that I don't remember anything about the ride home.   Nothing.  I can honestly say that's the worst thing I have ever done and whenever I think about it, I still shiver.