City Council approves Mayor Fuller’s FY2026 budget, including NPS funds

by Theo Younkin

On May 19, the Newton City Council voted unanimously to approve Mayor Ruthanne Fuller’s proposed $623 million FY2026 budget. (Ward 6 Councilor Alan Lobovits and Ward 3 Councilor Pamela Wright were absent.)

The Council took several different votes regarding the appropriation of various funds for FY2026 before the final vote on the Mayor’s proposed budget was taken.

Before the Council voted on the Mayor’s allocation of funding for the Newton Public Schools (NPS), Finance Committee Chair Leonard Gentile (Ward 4) announced that he had received word of a compromise between the School Committee and Mayor Fuller on the issue of Free Cash appropriations to NPS in order to close a deficit in the NPS operating budget.

The compromise included the allocation of four separate Free Cash items, two of which had already been approved by the City Council. The next two, which amounted to $1.1 million and $1.425 million, were not voted on during the meeting, as Councilor Gentile said they had not been placed on the City Council’s agenda. The City Council voted only on the Mayor’s base allocation in funding for the NPS budget, which amounted to $292,963,623.

Before voting on the Mayor’s NPS funding allocation, City Councilors spoke about the district’s funding challenges and their hopes for the future of the NPS budgeting process.

Councilor Rebecca Grossman (Ward 7) said that while she intended to vote in favor of the Mayor’s NPS funding allocation and appreciated the work that went into the aforementioned compromise, she had some remaining concerns about NPS funding in the years to come. She referred to the FY2026 NPS Budget as being “put together with Scotch tape,” calling the challenges of the annual budgeting process “financial gymnastics.”

“We still aren’t even at the Level Service+ number with this compromise. I understand that the reductions that are being made are not student-facing or affecting current, employed staff members, but it’s certainly not moving the ball forward, and I think that’s what we desire for education in our community,” she said.

Councilor Stephen Farrell (Ward 8) said that he believed that the City’s budgeting process needed to be dramatically reshaped in the years to come, suggesting that major changes to Newton’s charter could be necessary.

“I do think that the City Council and the next Mayor need to look at a new process, and I think that truly means changing the charter,” he said. “I think it means giving the Council some power to be able to negotiate earlier on with the Mayor about how the budget will come out.”

Councilor John Oliver (Ward 1) said that while the City Council was sure to face more challenges in the future regarding funding for NPS, he pointed to two “silver linings,” expressing hope for the future.

“I think that this Council is forging a much better, much more productive, relationship with our School Committee, and I’d like to see that continue and grow,” he said. “I think we also went through a bit of a process that helped us all look at the shared challenge that we have in front us …we have some difficult times in front of us. We just cleared a short-term hurdle; we’ve probably got a little bit of a mid-term hurdle, perhaps …and then we’ve got some levers we’ve got to start to reach for and manipulate, but I’m looking forward to it.”

All City Councilors present at the meeting voted to approve the Mayor’s allocation of funding for NPS, with the exception of Councilor Farrell, who abstained from voting. (City Council President Emeritus R. Lisle Baker (Ward 7) was absent for this vote but present for the final vote. Councilors Lobovits and Wright were absent for both votes.)

After the final vote on the City-wide FY2026 budget, City Council President Marc Laredo (Ward 7) reflected on the budgeting process.

“I have to say, I am exceptionally proud of how this City Council has conducted itself,” he said. “There was spirited, heartfelt debate and comment on the various resolutions before us. I think there was a concerted effort among Councilors to both understand the issues at play, to work with the Superintendent and the School Committee and the Administration to express those concerns, and that’s exactly what this body should be doing.”

After being invited to speak, Mayor Ruthanne Fuller took a moment to thank everyone involved in the budgeting process.

“We are blessed to have people with such care, such experience, with such wisdom, certainly surrounding me, but I would say surrounding all of us,” she said. “We’re really lucky people, in this chaotic world, to have this community, this staff, these elected officials.”

See NewTV’s video of the City Council meeting.

Theo Younkin is a Fig City News student reporter, a rising senior at Newton South High School, and former Co-Managing Editor of the NSHS Lion’s Roar.

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NPS Budget approved: Most drastic cuts avoided, major decisions in future

by Adam Bernstein

On May 19, the School Committee – after months of debate, meetings, public outcry, and negotiation with City Hall following the initial February 26th disclosure of a large forecasted NPS budget deficit – voted to implement a budget for Fiscal Year 2026 (Fall 2025 – Spring 2026 school year) that conforms to the City’s $293 million allocation to NPS proposed by the Mayor and approved by the City Council.

This vote supersedes the April 2nd School Committee budget vote that approved a budget in excess of the City’s allocation. However, significant changes to the funding of NPS operations – that occurred outside the official NPS budget, since the April 2nd vote – mean the most severe service reductions that had been feared will be avoided for next year. This includes the saving of 16.6 full-time-equivalent educator positions.

Superintendent Anna Nolin began the budget discussion by referring to a memorandum she said she had circulated just prior to the May 19th meeting, which contained a revised FY 2026 NPS Budget recommendation. [This memorandum has been requested by Fig City News and has not yet been posted in the School Committee’s public meeting materials folder.]

New for the final budget version, Mayor Fuller agreed to divert $1.1 million, out of a previously announced $2.5 million City Free Cash allocation for NPS facilities maintenance and repair (and additive to the $293 million allocation), toward different specific line-items of building and equipment “charter maintenance” projects that previously had been part of base $293 million NPS uses of funds. This change allowed NPS to use that $1.1 million toward other items in its budget. The remaining $1.4 million of the $2.5 million Free Cash appropriation to NPS will remain earmarked for those facilities projects for which it was planned.

Further, NPS will pool $350,000 of current cash in its various activity-specific accounts to create an additional amount of “carryforward” funds into FY 2026. Finally, while the restoration of full-time Kindergarten aides (at an estimated cost of $800,000) is not included in these figures, Superintendent Nolin stated the district may receive approximately $800,000 in Chapter 70 funding from the state of Massachusetts. The existence of this potential source of funding lowers the risk of unfunded costs arising in the middle of the coming school year. 

Even with the most drastic cuts avoided, NPS will still not have funding for certain components of Dr. Nolin’s “Level Service Plus” recommended budget plan, such as MCAS tutoring and field trip stipends, and late-day school buses. The proposal also postpones certain initiatives regarding an additional Newton Early Child Program (NECP) preschool class and the REACH program at Lincoln-Eliot elementary school. 

Both Dr. Nolin and the Committee members noted that almost $5 million of total NPS expenses were being funded directly by the City, outside of the NPS budget, and they expressed concern that next year it may appear as though NPS requires a large percentage increase in its funding allocation from the City if these items are included as NPS expenses. Multiple members indicated the likelihood of a proposal for an operating override in the near future .

The final budget vote can be viewed as a partial victory for Committee Chair Chris Brezski (Ward 2) as it is essentially a version of what he had advocated for, including in a Fig City News op-ed on April 10. However, during his comments toward the end of the budget discussion, Mr. Brezski expressed continued frustration at the opacity of how the City funds NPS, notably the quantity of items funded with Free cash outside of the official NPS budget allocation. During the discussion, Mr. Brezski questioned Mayor Fuller regarding whether the $1.4 million of remaining Free Cash allocation for facilities improvement could be removed from the overall budget motion and potentially saved for unexpected operating expenses, though this change was not made. Mayor Fuller has historically highlighted the importance of Newton’s AAA credit rating and the need to avoid the appearance of the City devoting too much of its free cash explicitly to recurring NPS expenses, leading to the special Free Cash allocations to “one-time” expenses.

The meeting replay is available on NewTV. 

Fig City News Coverage of FY 2026 NPS Budget

• February 26: Budget Workshop Reveals Deficit
• March 10: School Committee discussing Educational Stabilization Fund, Kindergarten Aides
• March 17: School Committee discussing options to close budget gap
• March 24: School Committee, Mayor debate funding priorities; Brezski proposal
• March 27: Nolin, Brezski address NPS parents at Brown Middle School
• April 2: School Committee Approves Budget Larger Than Allocation
• April 10: Brezski Op-Ed Regarding Budgeting Options
• April 17: School Committee Presents Budget to City Council
• April 22: Mayor Fuller Presents Budget to City Council
• May 6: School Committee Updates on Legal Options
• May 13: City Council Committees Vote No On City Hall’s NPS Allocation

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Newton South Jazz Ensemble receives international recognition, performs at prestigious Essentially Ellington competition

by Theo Younkin

In recent weeks, Newton South High School’s Jazz Ensemble has received no shortage of recognition.

On May 8, the NSHS Ensemble, which is directed by award-winning educator Lisa Linde, was named the winner of the Large High School Jazz Ensemble category in Downbeat magazine’s Student Music Awards. Each year, the magazine honors student jazz musicians in middle school, high school, and college ensembles around the world.

Additionally, the NSHS Ensemble was named one of 30 finalists in the Jazz at Lincoln Center’s annual Essentially Ellington competition. Participation in the Essentially Ellington festival, which took place in New York City from May 7-11, was restricted to finalists and marked the NSHS Ensemble as one of the top 30 high school jazz groups in the world.

Newton South jazz musicians received further recognition at the festival, with the NSHS Ensemble receiving the Outstanding Clarinet Section award and Ensemble members Adam Sheena and Leila Mostaghimi winning Outstanding Trumpet and Outstanding Clarinet awards, respectively.

Mostaghimi said that receiving the award was an honor and came as a great surprise. Having opted to improvise her solo instead of writing it out before her performance, she did not expect to receive a prize.

“Quite a large portion of soloists at Essentially Ellington write out their solos so that they can ensure that they play the best they could possibly play in their performance,” she said. “Ultimately, I decided that improvising was more important and would provide a greater learning experience, so I did not write out a solo …it means so much to have received this award for an improvised solo, so much more than it would have been if I had written something out.”

Mostaghimi said that the festival’s uplifting community made the trip an experience she will never forget.

“The environment was such that you could walk up to anyone and start talking and make friends,” she said. “People were cheering each other on like crazy during all of the performances, and it really didn’t feel like a competition. It felt like everyone cared more about the music than winning, which I really enjoyed.”

Guitarist Max Stober attended the festival with the Jazz Ensemble. He said that the competition was a valuable opportunity to connect with other jazz musicians.

“[You’re] getting to go into a room where you see a thousand other people interested in the very niche thing that you are,” he said.

Linde said that while participating in the festival was an incredible experience for her students, performing music requires taking a risk, which can be an obstacle for student performers to overcome.

“Performing is scary for anybody. You go stand up, you’re doing something that has emotional expression, personal expression, and then people might not like it. It’s a lot to put yourself out there,” she said. “We show up with students who are like, ‘do I fit in? Am I good enough? How will people react?’ ”

However, Linde said that her students’ worries disappeared after experiencing their first day of jam sessions. She said that the culture of the festival provided an invaluable opportunity for students to interact with other student musicians in a unique and meaningful way.

“[The students] came out …bouncing up and down with pure joy about how warm and welcoming and nice everybody was to each other,” she said. “It’s the idea of being together in a space with people you’ve never met before and the way you can connect through music and really cheer each other on and lift each other up. It was just the warmest, closest feeling.”

Theo Younkin is a Fig City News student reporter, a rising senior at Newton South High School, and former Co-Managing Editor of the NSHS Lion’s Roar.

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How are housing regulation and demolitions changing in Newton?

by Amanda Birbara

Amid residents’ concerns about Newton moving toward having no houses with character or even backyards, the pace of home demolitions has decreased significantly recently, and the City’s regulation of home construction is facing on-going changes. 

The Zoning and Planning Committee has spent months trying to address community distress about teardowns and how to best create policy that incentivizes homeowners to build around what already exists in a manner that respects each neighborhood, its residents, and property owners. 

The state of Newton’s demolitions

While Newton had regularly seen about 100 home demolitions annually, the total amount of demolitions has decreased by 42% in recent years, according to data from the City’s Inspectional Services Department (see table).

Houses most likely to be demolished in Newton are those that were built in the postwar era of the 1950s and 1960s.

Property taxes represent 83% of the City’s revenue. Single and two-unit properties make up more than 75% of Newton’s property tax base, and approximately 10% of Newton’s yearly housing sales result in demolitions, according to data from the City Planning Department. 

Virtually all demolitions result in increased property value, and the aggregate of these increases is an important part of the City’s revenue growth. The City generally plans for an additional 1% annual increase in tax revenue from “new growth” above the limit of 2.5% tax-base increase set by Proposition 2½. The need for increased City revenue for City services thus represents an incentive favoring demolitions for upgraded development. 

Measures to control demolitions

The City has a few measures in place that slow or prevent demolitions. 

Demolition delays:  Currently, the City’s Demolition Review Ordinance requires that “demolition or partial demolition of any building or structure that is 50 years old or older requires the approval of the Preservation Planner and/or the Newton Historical Commission (NHC). If the building or structure is determined to be historically significant and preferably preserved, a delay of demolition can be imposed.” A delay of 12 months can be imposed on properties that meet these requirements and “a delay of 18 months can be imposed for properties listed or eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places.” During the delay period, the building process becomes more expensive and more burdensome for homeowners to take on new construction. 

Historic districts: Demolitions or alterations to buildings can also be prevented if they are in a local historic district. The City of Newton’s Historic District Ordinance aims to “preserve buildings and areas with a high level of historical, cultural, or architectural importance.” Newton currently has four historic districts, in parts of Auburndale, Chestnut Hill, Newtonville, and Upper Falls. Residents of some other neighborhoods, such as Newton Highlands and West Newton, have not been successful in their attempts to  create historic districts.

Landmark status: Newton’s highest level of protection that can be placed on a property is designation under Newton’s Local Landmark Ordinance. Designations are authorized by the Newton Historical Commission, which determines which structures are the most architecturally or historically significant in the city.

Zoning regulations: In January 2025, Newton saw updates to its zoning regulations intended to address recent code changes, including the electrification of new homes, changes in how the height of new homes are measured, and what homeowners can do with regard to retaining walls. These code changes make it more expensive to build, according to Jennifer Caira, Newton’s Planning and Development department director, which can contribute to a lower demolition rate. 

Outside of the City’s scope, another factor limiting demolitions is inflation. Building materials, such as wood, have become more expensive due to tariffs. According to the National Association of Home Builders, Canadian lumber tariffs could run even higher than 34.5% later this year, which is significant as “Canada accounts for roughly 85% of all U.S. softwood lumber imports and represents almost one-quarter of the supply in the U.S.”

Community concerns

Community members have expressed concerns about demolitions in the city, citing negative environmental impacts, loss of neighborhood character, and loss of housing affordability. Laura Foote, who in 2018 co-led the West Newton Preservation Initiative to make West Newton Hill a local historic district, said she is concerned about the destruction of historic buildings: “Each house has a story in terms of how it was built, why it was designed in a certain way, and also who the first owners of the house were. That tells you about how Newton was settled and how the city grew,” she said.

Foote said she is worried about the impact that demolitions and construction have on the environment, especially regarding the embodied carbon and embodied energy of existing structures: Destroying buildings wastes the energy and materials used to construct them. The greenhouse gasses associated with construction and building materials such as asphalt, concrete, glass, and steel must be generated again for replacement construction. According to The United States Environment and Protection Agency (EPA), “15% of global greenhouse gas emissions are associated with the production of construction materials.”

The EPA estimated in 2018 that 600 million tons of construction and demolition debris was generated that year alone and that demolitions represented 90% of that debris. 

Environmental considerations were also raised during the Zoning and Planning Committee’s May 12 meeting. Councilor Allison Leary said the committee should consider how the implementation of new regulations will impact or cause the removal of trees. 

The committee also discussed property owners’ rights to construct on their land without overbearing regulation. 

Councilor Vicki Danberg said, “I think we have to be careful about making it more burdensome for the majority of people in this city to try and put an addition on their home,” in regard to newly proposed housing construction rules from the Planning and Development department. “That might help to avoid teardown, because […] you can do more to an existing house than a brand new house,” she said. 

Recent developments in housing regulation

In the most recent Zoning and Planning Committee meeting, Councilors discussed proposed regulations on the construction of new and existing homes, especially regarding the size of new homes. 

The committee plans to explore implementing a 60 percent facade ratio, which would limit the width of a new house to no wider than 60 percent of the width of the lot. This would apply only to new construction, not existing homes, which may only be putting on an addition. 

“The intent would be to limit the ability of new homes to build a very wide house that is close to the property lines on the side, but to give flexibility to existing homes that are putting on additions,” said Caira. 

The Committee voted unanimously to postpone decisions on any new policies before doing further research to consider how implementing a limit on the construction width of new homes would impact various factors, including Floor Area Ratio (FAR). In June, the Committee will host a public hearing and attempt to decide on regulations based on their findings.

According to the City’s Planning Department, homes that have been demolished in recent years had, on average, a FAR that was 0.10 less than homes sold and not demolished. That difference is significant, given that FAR limits are typically in the range of, for instance, 0.26 to 0.40. On a 10,000 sq ft lot, that 0.10 difference in FAR equates to a difference of 1,000 sq ft of living space. In short, smaller homes are being replaced with larger ones, likely reducing affordability and likely changing neighborhood character to some extent.

Ultimately the Zoning and Planning Committee is aiming to create regulations that curtail and manage demolitions, but allow owners to renovate without limitations that may be too expensive or time consuming. “We want to incentivize keeping the housing versus tearing it down,” Councilor Pam Wright said. 

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Newton Centre Langley parking lot closed May 20-22

by Bruce Henderson

The triangular parking lot in Newton Centre — the Langley Lot — will be closed Tuesday, May 20 through Thursday, May 22 — for repaving.

This work closure was originally scheduled for May 16-18, but that coincided with the Boston College commencement, one of the busiest days of the year for Newton Centre restaurants and retail shops. Kay Masterson, co-owner of Johnny’s Luncheonette in Newton Centre and Cabot’s in Newtonville, spoke with other Newton Centre business owners and worked with City officials to move the closure to Memorial Day weekend, which is generally less busy.

And most recently, the closure was changed again, to be May 20-22.

During the three-day closure of the Langley lot, the three other municipal lots — Pleasant Street, Pelham Street, and Cypress Street — will remain open.

The Walgreen’s parking lot (next to and behind the former Walgreen’s site (22 Langley Road) has been inaccessible since April 2, when new tenants took over the space and posted a noticed indicating that the lot will be patrolled days and evenings, and unauthorized vehicles will be towed from that lot. 

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Newton breaks ground for new Countryside School

by Chloe Yu

On May 19, Countryside Elementary School held a groundbreaking ceremony for its new school building. Mayor Ruthanne Fuller, Superintendent Anna Nolin, Countryside Principal Beth Herlihy, and Mary Pichetti, Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA), spoke at the ceremony. 

The new Countryside School project was proposed on April 10, 2020 and carefully reviewed by the School Committee. Rather than renovate the current building, the Committee voted to rebuild the school at an adjacent location at the corner of Dedham and Walnut Streets. The $75.98 million project is funded by a debt-exclusion override that was approved by voters in 2023 and a grant for up to $20 million awarded by the MSBA the same year. The new school building is scheduled to be ready for the 2027-28 school year.

With the construction of a new building, Countryside will be able to expand its enrollment to 465 students and provide them with air conditioning and heating using geothermal energy.

The ceremony began with Mayor Fuller thanking each group involved in the planning and construction. “It’s a fabulous opportunity for the students who will be going to this new building for generations to come. We should mark the occasion and say our thanks,” she said. 

Dr. Nolin then explained the importance of the project and how the new building will reflect sustainability goals and motivate students to take on those challenges in the future. “This building is inspired by the tree mural that is in the current building, which will be recreated in the new location. As we thought about our dreams for our children and the next generation of schooling in Newton, the idea of trees, roots, strong trunks, and sky’s the limit has come up over and over again,” she says.

Through collaboration with Principal Herlihy, Newton’s Public Buildings Department, and all other parties, this vision will become a reality. The first floor will be painted in earth tones, reflecting the foundation of gardens with fertile soil and strong tree roots. The second floor will be colored with blues and greens to bring about the theme of a never-ending sky to inspire students’ success and ambitions.  

Principal Herlihy said, “I began my career here in 1993 as an aide and then taught here for 10 years. When the opportunity to come back as a principal in 2014 opened up, it was a chance for me to come home. That is what Countryside is to me, and it’s what it is for our students and families. So I’m excited to have a new building that will be state-of-the art and will take us to the next level of education.”

The event concluded with Mary Pichetti of the MSBA speaking about the collaboration between her team and Newton; and how she looks forward to seeing the continued progress of the project. “At a site like this, professionals have taken into account the topography to make sure that the building will be resilient in the future,” she said. 

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Historic Newton’s 2025 Newton House Tour: Inspiring architecture, décor

by Julie M. Cohen

Historic Newton’s 2025 Newton House Tour took place on May 18, showcasing seven residences that were open to the public. Now in its 42nd year, the event welcomes visitors inside their neighbors’ storied homes and explores the homes’ varied histories.

Here are short profiles of four of the residences: Walnut Street in Newtonville, Suffolk Road in Chestnut Hill, Park Street in Newton Corner, and Washington Street in Newton Corner.

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Walnut Street in Newtonville

Even though they have more than 2,000 next-door neighbors, Alan Mayer and Scott Buquor have a warm oasis in their Colonial Revival home on busy Walnut Street in Newtonville. 

The residence, which was built in 1895, sits right next to Newton North High School. 

“The kids are great,” said Mayer, an architect, who greeted visitors and answered questions about the house during the tour. Since buying the property 20 years ago, he and Buquor oversaw a major renovation, including converting the basement into a light-filled apartment for a family member. 

Painted a cheery yellow on the outside, the home was built by William Claflin, the state’s 27th governor, according to Historic Newton. 

The interior is accented by the couple’s eclectic design choices, including a magenta butler’s pantry; a large hat and hat-box collection; model trains that once belonged to Mayer’s father and uncle; and even a “bouquet” of negative Covid tests that Mayer jokingly called an “art installation.”

“It was so mind-opening,” said first-time tour attendee Yilin Ye about the couple’s home and décor choices.

“We’d live there,” said visitor Sandy Golden, who noted how quiet it was inside, despite the proximity to the school.

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Suffolk Road in Chestnut Hill

Walking through the First Period/Georgian home on Suffolk Road in Chestnut Hill, several visitors commented that they felt they were visiting Colonial Williamsburg.

“It’s always fascinating to see how people meld the historical with a contemporary lifestyle and make it work,” said tour attendee Ruth Landsman. 

The residence, owned by longtime City Councilor R. Lisle Baker and his wife Sally Baker, was built circa 1700, is likely the oldest intact house in the city, and is on the National Register of Historic Places, according to Historic Newton.

Like other First Period homes, the Suffolk Road house has lower ceilings than a contemporary residence, which the 6-foot, 1-inch-tall City Councilor said can be a challenge.

However, the cozy wallpapered interiors lend the house a homey, comfortable feel, said Sally Baker.

Other notable elements include the beehive oven and fireplace in the kitchen, a lack of hallways between rooms, and Sally Baker’s whimsical hippo collection.

After leaving through the backyard, which featured Adirondack chairs, a picnic table, and hammock, tourgoer Anne Tansantisuk said, “We really appreciate the people that open their homes.” 

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Park Street in Newton Corner

An Italianate/Victorian Gothic home on Park Street in Newton Corner that was built circa 1871 includes quite a surprise inside: light, modern, and inviting rooms that were recently renovated, including the kitchen, bathrooms, and sunroom.

While the owners kept several original elements, such as the double front doors, wood flooring, the grand staircase banister, and more, they have added many personal touches throughout.

“The décor is a mix of both European and Indian styles, featuring antiques with intricate carvings and detailed inlays combined with more modern pieces,” according to Historic Newton.

Natasha Thamburaj, who owns the home with her husband Deborshi Dutt, said the extensive renovations took 18 months and that the family has been living there for only 10 months.

Since the house is brimming with international décor and furniture that Thamburaj said she has collected over the years, she did not have to buy many new items.

Visitor Bonnie Duval, who came from Newbury to go on the tour, admired the natural light streaming into the various rooms. She said that years ago, when she lived on Plum Island, her home was part of a house tour there. Duval said she recalled how people loved getting a chance to see the renovated interior. 

Standing in a second-floor study decorated with various artworks, Duval said house tours can inspire visitors to try something new in their own homes.

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Washington Street in Newton Corner

Entering a grand Colonial Revival home along Washington Street in Newton Corner, visitors could imagine themselves attending an elegant soiree in the large music room. In fact, a Historic Newton volunteer said an elderly tourgoer recalled her own debutante ball there decades ago.

The residence was built in 1892 for a wealthy Boston businessman, according to Historic Newton. Visitors enter the first-floor music room through a set of pocket doors and are greeted by “neoclassical architectural elements,” including Corinthian pilasters, an ornate cornice, and sparkling crystal chandeliers. The current residents still hold recitals and parties in the impressive space. 

Another eye-catching area is the dual library/rec room on the second floor, which is painted a vivid red. It included game tables and a movie screening area. 

On his way outside to view the backyard, visitor Victor Chin said he enjoyed hearing the story about the music/ballroom and learning more about all the homes he was able to see on the tour.

“The tour is a window into the different types of styles in Newton,” he said. “It’s interesting to see how people lived in the past.”

Other homes on the tour included:

• a Queen Anne / Shingle / Tudor Revival built in 1894 on Walnut Street in Newtonville;
• a Craftsman / Colonial Revival built in 1912 on Kenmore Street in Newton Centre; and
• a Second Empire built circa 1868 on Park Street in Newton Corner.

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Charles River Regional Chamber hosts annual Spring Business Breakfast

by Martina Jackson

A large, lively crowd of local business and political leaders filled the Needham Sheraton ballroom on Wednesday, May 14, to hear Dr. Mary Burke, the Principal Economist and Policy Advisor at the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston; Ashley Stolba, the Commonwealth’s Interim Secretary of Economic Development; and Yvonne Hao, former Secretary of Economic Development speak at the Charles River Regional Chamber’s annual Spring Business Breakfast. 

Greg Reibman, Chamber President, in welcoming the guests, observed that it was a “really hard time” to be in public service. The speakers who followed him all noted that these are challenging times for the economy, too.

Dr. Burke accompanied her remarks with a series of slides to explain the changing and unpredictable aspects of the Massachusetts economy and “policy uncertainty.” The slides illustrated the pattern of payroll jobs in Massachusetts, New England, and the United States. Dr. Burke noted that the number of jobs has been flat since the end of 2023. Education and Health Services have been the two stronger areas of job growth in Massachusetts since the pandemic. Jobs in Education and Health Services have been supporting the Commonwealth’s economy, whereas Professional, Scientific and Technical Services jobs have been down since 2022 and Life Sciences is in decline. The overall unemployment rate has been about 1% since 2023.

Overall, Massachusetts has been losing about 15,000 or more residents annually, as the cost of living rises in Massachusetts. Although the Consumer Price Index has decreased in Boston and New England in recent months, it’s still higher in New England than in the United States. And the cost of education, housing, and medical care prices are elevating inflation. Future expectations “have plummeted” since November, producing more pessimism about the economy. Moreover, the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) of the Federal Reserve has revised that growth downward while inflation was revised up in March. The economy could be “a wild ride,” Dr. Burke said. With a lower GDP this year, risks of recession increase. Dr. Burke reported that both Goldman Sachs and JP Morgan upgraded the likelihood of recession and slower growth. 

Adding to the uncertainty, the risk of higher inflation means interest rates need to be higher while a risk of slower growth requires cutting the rate. For Massachusetts, the negative economic factors include an older population coupled with the outmigration of the labor force and the reduction in tourism, especially from Canada. The massive cuts in NIH funding may drain an additional $2 billion from the Commonwealth. Federal job cuts have increased unemployment rates, and the cuts in research funding will have a long-term impact on Massachusetts that neither the private sector or the state can replace. Since people are feeling “antsy” about the economy they are “less likely to open their pocket books for donations.” Responding to a question, Dr. Burke noted that people did not want to go back to office jobs. But hiring in health care and education jobs has improved.

Bob Rivers, Executive Chair and Chair of the Board of Eastern Bank, the lead sponsor of the breakfast, noted that small, independent institutions of higher education were suffering. He said that 75% of the mortgages in the country are at 4% or lower, thereby reducing turnover, and the office market in Boston is significantly devalued since Covid. “This is a time of great uncertainty,” but it is a time for investment in nonprofits, which are losing federal funding. And it’s an excellent opportunity for volunteerism. As nonprofits face cuts, “we need to put our arms around them.”

Mr. Rivers had the highest praise for former Economic Development Secretary Yvonne Hao. He credited her with bringing people together across multiple sectors and promoting $5 billion for the Affordable Homes Act and $3 billion for emerging industries. Echoing Greg Reibman, he emphasized the challenges Secretary Hao found in her Commonwealth job, when she left her high-power, private sector jobs to work for much less money and longer hours in the public sector.

The current Acting Secretary, Ashley Stolba, described these as “very chaotic times” in a very unpredictable economy, but declared that we are lucky to live here with “the best public schools, the best place to raise a family, the best place to be a mom.” She wanted small businesses to know there is a program to help them navigate state programs.

In describing her love of Massachusetts, Secretary Hao explained that she was the first person in her family born in the United States and she is so proud to be an American. She described working for the Commonwealth as “a privilege and a gift.” When she accepted the Secretariat two years ago, she was determined to do the job “1000%” for the Commonwealth’s 7.1 million people. 

Describing Massachusetts data as “sobering,” the Secretary noted that “we are the most expensive in many ways” and there needs to be “more housing and childcare.” While Massachusetts has the highest income per capita, and other states are cheaper, if you want good education and health care you will pay for them. “If you want cheap, you can move to another state.” “We’re in it for the long haul — and we’ve been doing this for 250 years. This is the time to step up.” She emphasized the $4 billion Mass Leads Act investment in climate tech, life sciences, and AI and workforce development throughout the Commonwealth.

Darryl Settles, a Newton resident and managing partner in two real estate and development ventures, noted from the audience that no one had mentioned the proposed $33 billion cuts to HUD programs, including Section 8 and 40% of affordable housing. “What can we do? It’s really going to hurt our labor pool,” he said. Secretary Hao replied that one party owns the Presidency, the Congress, and the Supreme Court. “We’ve lost $9 trillion in the last two months — such volatility.” No amount of state funding, regardless of how well managed, “can fill that gap. …Some of the cuts are destroying the fabric of what makes this country great,” she said. 

Angela Pitter, Chair of the Charles River Chamber Board, a Newton resident, and CEO of Live Wire Collaborative, asked about AI support in the Commonwealth. Secretary Hao assured her that AI “came up in every conversation. We should embrace it and make people’s lives better.” Secretary Hao offered three ways to make people’s lives better:

• Values and equity
• Helping by investing in infrastructure
• Invest in start-ups in innovation and life sciences

In expanding on the concerns he expressed at the Business Breakfast, Mr. Settles later told Fig City News, “Now is the time to manage and save. Yvonne Hao didn’t sugar coat that things are going to get worse. We are back decades for Blacks and immigrants, with attacks on DEI.” He offered as an example the attack on Harvard’s affirmative action admissions policy.

See NewTV’s video of the Chamber’s Business Breakfast. 

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Dragon’s Path Newton AAPI 5k/1k: A fusion of fitness, culture, and community

by Michelle Luo

On Sunday morning, May 11, Newton’s Dragon’s Path Newton AAPI 5K/1K – a run and walk fundraiser – transformed 154 Wells Avenue into a celebration of community spirit and cultural pride.

Nearly 200 runners and volunteers of all ages and abilities attended the event, which was hosted by the Newton Chinese Language School (NCLS) and Chinese American Association of Newton (CAAN), in collaboration with local running clubs Boston Bulls and Boston Snails. 

Participants had their choice to either run or walk either one or five kilometers around Wells Ave. 

The race was organized as a celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Month. NCLS principal Yujuan Yun, CAAN president Michelle Luo, race director Huahang Sun, and Boston Bulls Running Club head Huaiqin Wu opened the event, emphasizing its focus on AAPI unity, cultural pride, and strength.

Guests and speakers included Mayor Ruthanne Fuller, Congressman Jake Auchincloss, State Representatives Amy Sangiolo and Greg Schwartz, City Councilor Rick Lipof, and Boston Athletic Association CEO Jack Fleming.

Some community members embraced the race as a unique way to celebrate Mother’s Day, bonding through shared strides and smiles.

The Dragon’s Path Newton AAPI 5K/1K combined fitness, cultural celebration, and connection, leaving attendees with lasting memories and strengthened ties within the community.

Michelle Luo is president of the Chinese American Association of Newton.

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Newton people in the news…

by FCN

Alana Murphy and Celina Poon are this year’s recipients of Nancy Quint Schön Arts Scholarships, by which each will receive a scholarship of $1,000 to support higher education in the arts.

Crystal L of the John M. Barry Boys & Girls Club of Newton was named a 2025 Massachusetts State Youth of the Year Finalist.

Martha Schnee, Lena Warnke, and Hava Horowitz are Newton South HS alums who are now three of the four members of Sidebody, a Somerville-based band playing at Boston Calling this weekend. (See WBUR’s article, Somerville art rock band sidebody says making music is for everyone.)

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Tennis: 20th Annual Garden City Cup, May 22

On Thursday afternoon, May 22, Newton North and Newton South High School will hold the 20th annual Garden City Cup exhibition tennis match on the South tennis courts.

The event honors the memory of Linda F. Zuker, Newton South’s former assistant girls tennis coach, who succumbed years ago to a rare, virtually untreatable viral disease. A foundation formed in her honor supports youth athletics in the region as well as Tenacity, an organization that promotes tennis in the inner city.

The program consists of two rounds of boys and girls playing mixed doubles, in eight-game pro-set matches, with a tiebreaker at 7-7. Junior varsity will play at 4PM, and varsity will play at approximately 5:15PM. In between, a brief ceremony will honor the players of both schools as well as Pat Gonzalez, Newton South’s retiring Athletic Director.

In all, perhaps eighty players — both varsity and junior varsity, boys and girls — will participate in the event. This tradition, more than two decades old, has helped not only to bring the high schools together but to benefit the wider community as well. It also keeps alive the memory of beloved friend and former coach, Linda Zuker.

Bob Jampol of Friends of Newton Tennis said, “In less than a week’s time, the varsity teams will be competing in the state team tennis tournament. As the season winds down, the Garden City Cup allows the players to compete in the spirit of fun.”

Cooper Center: Personal Organizing 101, May 22

The Cooper Center for Active Living will host a Personal Organizing 101 class for older adults that will focus on practical strategies for decluttering, organizing, and downsizing, helping participants to create more efficient, stress-free living spaces. Led by Jennifer Gershon, the event will help participants learn strategies to streamline their belongings and organize their homes in a way that enhances daily productivity. It will take place on Thursday, May 22, 1-2PM at the Hyde Community Center (90 Lincoln Street, Newton Highlands).

RSVP is requested. Please call 617-796-1675, stop by the Front Desk at 20 Hartford Street, or send your name, telephone number, and email address to the Cooper Center receptionists at oasprograms@newtonma.gov.

Newton PRC: Summer swim lessons & membership registrations

Newton Parks, Recreation and Culture (Newton PRC) will host summer swim lessons and memberships during the summer.

YOUTH SWIMMING LESSONS: Held outdoors at either either the new Gath Pool (256 Albemarle Road, Nonantum) and Crystal Lake (30 Rogers Street, Newton Centre). Lessons are organized into two-week sessions. Classes are held Monday through Friday for two weeks. Each session includes a total of ten 35 minute lessons. Register for either Gath Pool or Crystal Lake

Session 1: June 30 to July 11 (No class on July 4th Holiday)
Session 2: July 14 to July 25
Session 3: July 28 to August 8
Session 4: August 11 to August 22 (Classes to be announced at a later date based on instructor availability) 

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SUMMER AQUATICS MEMBERSHIPS: Memberships for Gath Pool, Crystal Lake, or Combo. Memberships allow for access to all open swim times. Children 6 & older are required to have a membership to participate in Swim Lessons or Swim Team.

Pool Memberships
– Resident Adult — (Ages 18-61) $175
– Resident Child — (Ages 6-17) $100
– Resident Child — (Ages 5 & Younger) No Charge
– Resident Senior — (Ages 62+) $100
– Non-Resident (All ages) — $275

Lake Memberships 
– Resident Adult — (Ages 18-61): $85.00
– Resident Child — (Ages 6-17): $60.00
– Resident Child — (Ages 5 & Younger): No Charge 
– Resident Senior — (Ages 62+): $60.00

Combo Memberships (Includes a Pool AND Lake Membership)
– Resident Adult: — $200
– Resident Child: — $125
– Resident Senior — $125

Membership Scholarships: Newton families experiencing financial hardship may apply for a Scholarship. The Scholarship provides a fee waived membership for the Summer. Application can be found on the Gath Pool or Crystal Lake website. Income verification is required. 

Newton South HS Pops Concert, May 22

The annual Newton South HS Pops Concert will take place on May 22 at 7:00PM in the Van Seasholes Auditorium at Newton South (140 Brandeis Rd). Admission is free. The concert will feature performances by all Newton South performing arts ensembles, including jazz, Symphonic Band, and String Orchestra ensembles, as well as performances from all three Newton South choral groups.

The concert will also feature an awards ceremony highlighting outstanding seniors in Newton South performing arts ensembles.

Band, wind, and jazz ensembles are directed by Lisa Linde, who recently received national recognition as the 2025 John LaPorta Jazz Educator of the Year. String and choral ensembles are directed by Benjamin Youngman.

Newton Conservators webinar: Rediscovering and Revitalizing Cheesecake Brook, May 22

Newton Conservators will host a webinar, Rediscovering and Revitalizing Cheesecake Brook, where participants can learn about Cheesecake Brook and how it exemplifies the challenges facing urban streams. They can also learn about how to reduce aquatic pollution, promote healthier flow patterns, and create an attractive shaded wetland corridor for the benefit of residents and wildlife by investing in green stormwater infrastructure and bank restoration. The webinar will take place on Thursday, May 22, 7-8:30PM. Sign-up here.

Turtle Studios Drop-In Workshops in Nonantum

Turtle Studios offers its Spring Drop-In Workshop Series — a weekly hands-on event inviting the community to learn and create alongside four local artists in a vibrant studio environment. Hosted at Turtle Studios’ shared space at 213 California Street in Nonantum, the series runs Thursdays from May 15 through June 5, 6PM to 9PM. Each week features a different artist and medium—perfect for curious beginners or creatives looking to try something new. All materials are provided*; just bring your imagination!

Workshop Schedule

• May 22 – Laura Palmer Edwards // Printmaking & Collage. Explore creative printmaking methods and mixed media collage to build colorful, expressive works of art. *All materials are provided, but participants are encouraged to bring their own Gelli Plate (8” x 10” or smaller) if they have one.
• May 29 – Kristen Freitas // Acrylic Pour Painting. Create your own vivid abstract piece using fluid acrylic pouring techniques. No experience needed!
• June 5 – Clyde D’Mello // Drawing & Collage. Blend drawing and collage for a dynamic, personal art experience focused on storytelling through imagery.

3rd Annual Newton Highlands Klezmer Dance, May 23

The Boston Festival of New Jewish Music will host the 3rd annual Newton Highlands Klezmer Dance on May 23, 6PM-7:30PM at the Hyde Center Bandstand (90 Lincoln Street, Newton Highlands). Dance (or simply listen) to the sounds of the Boston Festival of New Jewish Music All Stars, representing the best in Jewish-influenced music by composers and performers who live in Greater Boston.

It’s free, and donations are optional. Registration is not required but encouraged.

Klezmer music is upbeat and lively, characterized by a mix of Eastern European folk melodies, Middle Eastern scales, and improvisational styles. Bring your friends, family and neighbors to join in the family-friendly fun!

Newton Tree Conservancy: Fall Tree Planting – Applications due June 29

The Newton Tree Conservancy will host a Fall Tree Planting for Newton residents with space on their berm. However, there’s a social twist. One person must step forward as the neighborhood leader, assembling a team of five or more neighbors within a few blocks to identify places between the sidewalk and the street to plant eight or more new trees. Homeowners in the recruited planting group each submit their own application, specifying the name of the planting group that the leader provided them. After the applications are approved, planting day will take place a few months later.

Applications are due on Sunday, June 29 for plantings in the fall.

Young golfers can enjoy rounds for $5 or less – Register by May 24

Bank of America offers $5 rounds of golf for young players here in the Boston area as part of its newly announced “Golf with Us” initiative. Through a partnership with Youth On Course, Bank of America is funding golf for kids ages 6 -18 at 35 courses in Massachusetts (including Newton Commonwealth Golf Course) and thousands of courses around the country and locally to grow the next generation of golfers.

Children ages 6-18 in the Boston area are encouraged to enroll in a free, one-year membership to Youth on Course courtesy of Bank of America. Enrollment is open until May 24, 2025 at BofA.com/GolfwithUs.

Golf with Us includes access to select golf courses for $5 or less per round. The full list is available at YouthOnCourse.org.

Program membership also includes a registered handicap index in the United States Golf Association’s Golf Handicap Information Network (GHIN) system and continued development and learning opportunities.

Newton Conservators: A Stroll Through Cold Spring Park, May 24

The Newton Conservators will host A Stroll Through Cold Spring Park. Participants can tour this woodland haven in the heart of Newton and explore some of its natural and unnatural wonders, mysteries, threats, and possibilities with Friends of Cold Spring Park founder and President Alan Nogee. The event will take place on Saturday, May 24, 1-3PM at Cold Spring Park (1200 Beacon Street, Waban). Registration is free.

Newton Memorial Day Observances, May 25-26

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Wreath-Laying Ceremonies (Sunday, May 25)
Wreaths will be laid down throughout the City’s bridges and monuments starting at 9AM at Forte Park (235 California Street, Nonantum).

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Memorial Day Parade (Sunday, May 25)
It will begin at 3PM at Newton North High School (457 Walnut Street, Newtonville) and will continue down Walnut Street to Newtonville before turning at Lowell Park on Watertown Street, ending at the reviewing stand in front of Coletti-Magni Park in Nonantum. Participants will begin gathering at 2:15PM at the school to take part in this year’s parade. Newton veterans are always invited to march in the parade.

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Memorial Day Observance (Monday, May 26)
It will begin at 10AM at the Newton Cemetery (791 Walnut Street, Newton Centre) beginning at the first veterans’ burial lot located on Lake Street. There will be brief remarks from Mayor Ruthanne Fuller, the City Council designee, the respective Veteran organizations present, the Chaplain and the Director of Veterans’ Services. It will then move to the other veterans’ lots on Willow Street, followed by the third and final lot at the back of the cemetery on Birch Street.

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If you have any questions, please contact Seth Bai at 617-796-1092 or via email sbai@newtonma.gov

Teen author Rosalind Yeh hosts storytime at Hummingbird Books, May 25

In celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, teen author Rosalind Yeh will host Sunday Story Time on May 25, 11AM – 12PM at Hummingbird Books (55 Boylston Street, Chestnut Hill). She will read from her series “The Secret Academy” and connect with readers. The event is free, and no registration is needed.

As a young Asian American writer, Rosalind represents a new generation of creative voices. She began writing at age 10, and her books have inspired other kids to read, write, and dream big. Interview video.

Library: Concert with the Azaela String Trio, May 27

The Newton Free Library will present a Concert with the Azaela String Trio led by Deborah Boykan (violin), Jenny Stirling (viola), and Saraj Freiberg (cello). The trio will play works by Wiggins, Weston, Burleigh, Dvorak, Fisher, and White. Songs will include “Deep River,” “Goin’ Home,” “Levee Dance Op. 27, No. 2,” and “The Birthday Waltz 1883.” It will take place on Tuesday, May 27, 1-2PM at the Newton Free Library (330 Homer Street, Newton Centre).

This program is supported in part by a grant from the Newton Cultural Council, a local agency that is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.

This concert is presented in partnership with the Department of Older Adult Services. It is also sponsored by the Jayne Colino Fund of the Senior Citizens Fund of Newton.

RSVP requested. Please call 617-796-1675, stop by the Front Desk at 20 Hartford Street, or send your name, telephone number, and email address to the Cooper Center receptionists at seniorprograms@newtonma.gov.

51st annual Mayor’s Community Breakfast, May 28

The Mayor’s Community Breakfast is hosted annually by the Harmony Foundation and sponsored by The Village Bank and other partners. This year marks the 51st annual event in the series. Participants can register, or sponsor the event. It will be held on Wednesday, May 28, 7:30-9:30AM, on the UMass Amherst Mt. Ida Campus (100 Carlson Avenue, Oak Hill), in the Shaw Hall Courtyard (map).

This year’s Keynote Speaker will be Dan Shaughnessy, renowned sportswriter for the Boston Globe. In addition, MA District 4 Congressman, Jake Auchincloss, will share remarks. 

This event is the principal fundraiser for the Foundation for Racial, Ethnic and Religious Harmony, which appreciates your support!

Newton Cultural Alliance: Strawberry Festival, May 29

The Newton Cultural Alliance will host the 11th annual Strawberry Festival on Thursday, May 29, 6:30PM at The Allen Center (35 Webster Street, West Newton). 

A celebration deeply rooted in the community, the Strawberry Festival will include a rich harvest of local music, visual art, and cherished time with friends and neighbors. Enjoy a light dinner, refreshing strawberry drinks, and dancing the evening away, and the always-rousing Raise the Paddle to raise funds for The Allen Center. Tickets and corporate sponsorship opportunities are available online.

Cooper Center: Minis with a Mission, May 30

The Cooper Center for Active Living will present an event, Minis with a Mission, to provide opportunities for all people to receive the therapeutic and joyful benefits of interacting with miniature equines. The minis will bring healing, comfort, and delight through connecting hands, hearts, and hooves. It will take place on Friday, May 30, 12-1PM at the Hyde Community Center (90 Lincoln Street, Newton Highlands).

This program is generously sponsored by local horse aficionado Justin Greene (pictured).

RSVP requested. Please call 617-796-1675, stop by the Front Desk at 20 Hartford Street, or send your name, telephone number, and email address to the Cooper Center receptionists at oasprograms@newtonma.gov.

Cooper Center: Community Survey, respond by May 31

The Cooper Center for Active Living is hosting a community survey until May 31 to gather ideas for offerings following the opening of the Center in the fall. The Center will offer a variety of programs, including arts, culture, fitness, and recreational activities, alongside services and drop-in opportunities like billiards and a walking track. Feedback from the survey will guide Newton Parks, Recreation and Culture in planning programs that best suit the community’s needs.

Newton Theatre Company’s Monologue Project: Remembering the Goldstein family, May 31

The Newton Theatre Company (NTC) will dedicate its May 31 Monologue Project production to remembering the members of the Goldstein family who were so involved in NTC productions over the years and who died tragically on December 15 (see Fig City News article)

This free event will take place on May 31 at the Hyde Community Center Bandshell (90 Lincoln Street, Newton Highlands). All are invited to RSVP online (so NTC will know how many to expect), then gather on the Hyde Community Center lawn between 6PM and 7PM (bring a picnic dinner, if you like) in time for the presentation (7PM-8:30PM). In the event of inclement weather, the event will move to an indoor venue (location to be emailed to those who RSVP).

Carroll Center for the Blind: Walk for Independence, May 31

The Carroll Center for the Blind‘s 13th annual Walk for Independence will take place on the Mt. Ida campus of UMass Amherst in Newton (100 Carlson Avenue, Oak Hill) on Saturday, May 31. Register as an individual or part of a team. The Walk kick-off is at 9:00 AM, with post-walk BBQ and activities.

The Walk for Independence supports the Carroll Center for the Blind’s mission of empowering those who are blind or visually impaired to achieve independence and to lead a fulfilling life. Attendees will complete a 1, 2, or 3-mile walk around the Mt. Ida campus followed by activities for all ages.

Newton 9-11 Memorial Scholarship: Apply by June 30

The Newton 9-11 Memorial Committee is a non-profit 501(c)(3) public charity that designed, raised funds for, and installed a memorial to the victims and heroes of 9/11/2001, especially the eight Newton residents who lost their lives that day. Thanks to its generous contributors, the Committee offers annual scholarships to Newton high school students, with the aim to preserve the lessons of that fateful September day.

To be eligible, applicants for the scholarship must:

• Complete the application and submit an essay about one of two the suggested topics:
  • What lesson or lessons have you learned from the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001?
  • Describe your experience visiting the Newton 9-11 Memorial.
• Be a rising high school senior (graduating in 2026) and resident of Newton, Massachusetts.
• Meet the deadline of June 30, 2025.

The Committee hopes that the quality of the essays will merit one $1000 scholarship and two additional scholarships, each for $500, which will be awarded at the 2025 Memorial Commemoration. Scholarship recipients will be announced in early September 2025.