Newton Ranks Number Three by CNN Money Magazine
“These terrific small cities — even now — boast plenty of jobs, great schools, safe streets, low crime, lots to do, charm, and other features that make a town great for raising a family.” Read more at http://money.cnn.com/magazines/moneymag/bplive/2010/snapshots/PL2545560.html
Newton is ranked 3 out of 100 for America’s best small cities. Most residents of Newton would agree. I moved to Newton from Cambridge over 20 years ago. At the time, I was sad to be leaving the urban Cambridge with the bookstores, the restaurants, and the shops. I was afraid I would miss the diversity and the culture. But like many fears confronted, my enthusiasm for my new home soon overcame any misgivings. Not only did I have a garden, I found Newton to be the best of both worlds–neighborhood suburb and a hop, skip and a jump to the city. Over the years, I have learned about the history of the development of The Greater Boston Area. Newton broke off from the city of Cambridge and eventually became one of the first commuter towns. In 1834, the Boston and Worcester Railroad ran Boston to Newton in 39 minutes.The Greater Boston Area is vibrate with educational, medical, and cultural institutions. Newton is a great commuter town because of the easy access to the job sources.
Even more Newton is not just what statistics can show about ratings and unemployment rates. Newton is its people and their community (or shall we say communities.) Newton is comprised of 13 villages each with its own neighborhood look and feel. Some maps with show up to 15 villages. The villages are not strictly defined by any official document but only by zip code. The school districts are specifically defined on the Newton Public Schools’ District Zoning map. Newton has the economies of scale with the advantages of small local neighborhoods and their benefits. Casseroles are delivered for families in need–new babies, house fires, illness and especially death like in most good American towns.
Most communication is done through the PTO’s although new and better web sites like www.OurNewton.org, http://www.newtonma.go are tightening the social network.
Visually Newton is full of charm. The age and style of homes and facilities are varied. The demographics are quite diverse. There are so many great little shops, restaurants, bookstores, and cultural facilities. There are two major family fitness centers on either side of town, the Leventhal-Sidman Jewish Community Center and the West Suburban YMCA. Both offer a multitude of activities and events for all ages.
Hey, Newton is not without its problems. Our community is often opinionated and vocal. But at the end of the day, most residents I know are proud to live in Newton. And so am I.
CHRYSTAL LAKE BEACH
WABAN CENTER
CARRIAGE LANE ON COMMONWEALTH AVE
http://money.cnn.com/magazines/moneymag/bplive/2010/snapshots/PL2545560.html