*Edited Sept. 12, 12:24 PM to remove a story regarding homelessness criminalization. This story is for Newark, OH and was posted here by mistake.

Welcome to The Newark Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Downtown Newark Food Tour

• Upcoming Don Omar performance

• A deep-dive into the life of Jerry Lewis

• And much more…

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Quote of the Week

“Life is a journey, not a destination.”

— Ralph Waldo Emerson

News & Updates

• Former Yankees Star Lifts Newark Students With Mentorship Program. (link)

• Newark city council delays budget adoption after pleas for more library funds. (link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Music & Performances

Activities

Newark In Film

Movie of the Week: War of the Worlds (2005)

Filming Locations: Several scenes filmed in the Ironbound neighborhood, showcasing Newark during an alien invasion.

In War of the Worlds (2005), Newark’s Ironbound neighborhood is featured in several key scenes, highlighting the city during the chaos of an alien invasion. This area provides a gritty, urban backdrop for the intense action sequences as Tom Cruise’s character and his family flee the devastation. The Ironbound’s narrow streets and dense population effectively amplify the sense of panic and urgency, making the invasion feel even more overwhelming.

Filming in Newark not only added realism to the film but also showcased the city’s vibrant character amidst the chaos. These scenes helped ground the sci-fi spectacle in a real, recognizable setting, enhancing the film's overall impact.

Famous People In Newark History

Jerry Lewis (1926–2017)

Early Life and Roots in Newark (1926–1942)

Jerry Lewis was born Joseph Levitch on March 16, 1926, in Newark, New Jersey, to Russian Jewish parents. His father, Danny Levitch, was a vaudeville entertainer, and his mother, Rachel Levitch, was a piano player for a radio station. Growing up in Newark, young Jerry was exposed to the world of show business from an early age, often accompanying his parents on performances. His childhood in Newark played a crucial role in shaping his future as an entertainer. It was in the bustling, working-class neighborhoods of Newark that Lewis developed his comedic instincts, drawing inspiration from the vibrant cultural diversity of the city. He dropped out of high school at the age of 16 to pursue a career in entertainment, starting with small gigs in local theaters.

Early Career and Rise to Fame (1943–1949)

Jerry Lewis’s career began modestly with performances in nightclubs, where he developed his signature slapstick comedy style. In 1946, his career took a major turn when he teamed up with singer Dean Martin. The duo of Martin and Lewis quickly became one of the hottest acts in show business, combining Martin’s smooth vocals with Lewis’s wild, unpredictable humor. They began performing in clubs and soon made their way to radio and television. Their comedic chemistry and Lewis’s outrageous physical comedy made them a sensation, and they quickly rose to national prominence. Newark, proud of its native son, watched as Lewis became one of the most popular comedians in America during the post-war era.

Hollywood Success and the Martin & Lewis Era (1950–1956)

By the early 1950s, Martin and Lewis had become one of Hollywood’s most bankable duos, starring in a series of hit films such as At War with the Army (1950), The Stooge (1951), and Hollywood or Bust (1956). Their films capitalized on Lewis’s unique blend of slapstick humor, exaggerated facial expressions, and physical antics, paired with Martin’s suave, straight-man persona. During this period, Jerry Lewis’s influence on comedy was immense, as he redefined the boundaries of physical comedy. Despite their success, tensions between Martin and Lewis began to surface, leading to their eventual split in 1956. The breakup of Martin and Lewis marked the end of one of the most successful comedy duos in history, but it was only the beginning of Jerry Lewis’s solo career.

Solo Career and Comedic Innovation (1957–1964)

After parting ways with Dean Martin, Jerry Lewis embarked on a highly successful solo career that saw him become one of Hollywood’s leading comedians and filmmakers. He starred in a string of hit comedies, including The Delicate Delinquent (1957), Cinderfella (1960), and his most famous work, The Nutty Professor (1963). In The Nutty Professor, Lewis both directed and starred in the film, showcasing his talents as a filmmaker and solidifying his place as a comedic genius. His ability to blend slapstick with pathos, as well as his groundbreaking use of technology in filmmaking, set him apart from his peers. Newark, his hometown, celebrated his continued success as one of the most innovative and influential comedians of the 20th century.

Connection to Newark and Continued Success (1965–1979)

Throughout his career, Jerry Lewis maintained a connection to his Newark roots. Although he had moved to Hollywood, he often spoke fondly of his upbringing in Newark, attributing his work ethic and comedic sensibilities to the lessons he learned in the city. Newark’s working-class background, with its rich mix of ethnicities and cultures, provided Lewis with a unique perspective on life, which he carried into his comedy. During this time, Lewis also became known for his philanthropic work, particularly his association with the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA). Starting in 1966, Lewis hosted the annual Jerry Lewis MDA Labor Day Telethon, raising millions for research and becoming a beloved figure for his charity work. His dedication to helping others reflected the values he learned growing up in Newark.

Later Career and Shift to Filmmaking (1980–1995)

In the 1980s and 1990s, Jerry Lewis continued to work in film and television, though his focus shifted more toward directing and producing. He appeared in films like Hardly Working (1981) and King of Comedy (1983), where he played a dramatic role opposite Robert De Niro. King of Comedy showcased a different side of Lewis, proving his range as an actor. He also began teaching filmmaking at the University of Southern California, sharing his vast knowledge of comedy and film direction with a new generation of filmmakers. Though his physical comedy style was no longer as dominant as it had been in the earlier decades, Lewis remained a respected figure in the entertainment industry and continued to push the boundaries of comedic filmmaking.

Legacy in Comedy and Influence on Future Generations (1996–2009)

Jerry Lewis’s influence on comedy and filmmaking continued to be felt well into the later years of his life. His work inspired countless comedians and actors, from Jim Carrey to Eddie Murphy, who have cited Lewis as a major influence on their careers. Lewis’s unique blend of physical comedy, pathos, and directorial innovation made him a pioneer in the world of film. His techniques in comedic timing, character development, and the use of technology in film, such as video assist, became standards in the industry. Newark, proud of its native son, celebrated Lewis’s contributions to the world of entertainment, with many locals regarding him as one of the city’s greatest cultural exports.

Philanthropy and Humanitarian Work (1966–2010)

Jerry Lewis’s philanthropic work, particularly through his Labor Day telethons for the Muscular Dystrophy Association, became a defining aspect of his legacy. Over the years, Lewis raised over $2 billion for the cause and became a symbol of dedication to humanitarian efforts. His tireless work for the MDA earned him numerous accolades and made him a beloved figure outside the world of entertainment. Newark, a city known for its strong sense of community, embraced Lewis’s charitable work, and he became a symbol of how far-reaching a person’s influence could be beyond their primary career. His compassion and commitment to giving back remained as important as his achievements in comedy.

Final Years and Reflection on Career (2010–2017)

In the final years of his life, Jerry Lewis continued to reflect on his long and storied career in entertainment. He made occasional public appearances, sharing stories about his work in Hollywood and his experiences with other legendary performers. His contributions to the entertainment industry were recognized with numerous honors, including the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award and an induction into the New Jersey Hall of Fame. Lewis’s love for his hometown of Newark never wavered, and he often expressed his gratitude for the experiences that shaped him. He passed away on August 20, 2017, at the age of 91, leaving behind an indelible mark on comedy, film, and philanthropy.

Legacy and Connection to Newark (2017–Present)

Jerry Lewis’s legacy continues to be celebrated, both in Newark and across the world. Newark takes pride in being the birthplace of one of the greatest comedic icons in history. His influence on comedy, filmmaking, and humanitarian work has left a lasting impression on popular culture, with his films remaining beloved by fans of all ages. In Newark, his contributions are remembered not just for his celebrity but for the values of hard work, creativity, and giving back that he embodied throughout his life. Jerry Lewis’s connection to Newark, a city known for its resilience and cultural richness, remains an integral part of his story.

Key Achievements:

• Achieved global fame as one half of the comedy duo Martin and Lewis and later became a pioneering solo filmmaker and actor.

• Directed and starred in iconic films such as The Nutty Professor, showcasing his groundbreaking approach to comedy and filmmaking.

• Raised over $2 billion for the Muscular Dystrophy Association through his annual Labor Day telethon, making him a beloved humanitarian figure.

Jerry Lewis’s journey from a young boy growing up in Newark to becoming one of the most iconic comedians and filmmakers of the 20th century reflects his extraordinary talent and dedication. His connection to Newark remained a significant part of his identity, and the values he learned there shaped both his comedy and his philanthropic efforts. Lewis’s legacy as a pioneer in comedy and his humanitarian work through the Muscular Dystrophy Association continue to inspire, ensuring his place as a beloved figure in American entertainment history.

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-Yannick Lyons

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