This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: doowop55 Surnames: Classification: queries Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.newjersey.counties.middlesex/4104.1.1.1.1.1.1/mb.ashx Message Board Post: I didn't leave N.B. until 1993, was born there in 1943 and attended the public school system. While I could see that compared to the deteriorated condition of the 70's and 80's, the subsequent improvements would almost have to look better. But today's trendy little shops and bistros have nothing of the class of the stores that lined the streets prior to the 60's. For starters those shops had quality salespeople who had experience and the customer was the priority. They dressed with care for their job and behaved professionally. I had been to more then a few of the businesses when returning back in '99 for a month. Many of them are allowed to be run by inept 'help', inexperienced students for the most part who had to strain themselves to give you 5 minutes of time. It's just the way of things and while the stores are visually attractive, it pretty much ends at the door. Those books you mentioned that are pubished "Images of America' I think they are called are excellent. However the one for New Brunswick does not have any photos from the 1940's and 1950's...not one. I am referring to stores like P.J. Youngs,Fixlers,Wolfsons,Style Shop,Melburns, House of Fashion,Nathans, etc. It would seem that since many if not all were family owned that there would be dozens around. Next time I am up in Brunswick I will try Rutgers Library. Thanks though.... Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.