Part 4/7:
His experiences only deepened during subsequent visits in 2021 and 2023, where the deterioration seemed to have accelerated. The city's issues not only persisted but intensified. What amazed him were the visual and olfactory reminders of neglect and decay, which were now coupled with overwhelming displays of virtue signaling. Pride flags adorned the streets, a stark contrast to the suffering citizens struggling with addiction and violence—an emblem of misplaced priorities.