But she promises to remain in the neighborhood, specifically in the garden, to see the five-year project to fruition. These kids didn't even know lettuce grows in the ground. But she is making it better. And she's not alone. All of a sudden, New Haven works.
Taxes are down.
So is crime. Secession signs have disappeared like mowed skunk grass from many lawns of the East Shore. And much more important, neighbors in all parts of town, including some blocks once considered hopeless, have decided it's now worth their time to work together to bring change. That's not to deny the city's real problems. Nor is it to suggest New Haven has turned the corner and reached some promised land at the end of the block.