Category: Newton Beacon
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Newton-based Bricks for the Blind helps people without sight enjoy Legos
Newton resident Matthew Shifrin leads an initiative to make Legos more accessible through his nonprofit Bricks for the Blind. “It’s been really wonderful because blind people have been able to explore the world in different ways,” Shifrin said. Shifrin, 28,…
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Newton’s new community services chief, John Rice, has devoted his life to the city
Newton’s new community services chief has devoted his life to the city John Rice was 8 years old when his brother, James, was killed in the Vietnam War. James was 21 and just a few days shy of completing his…
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Still Smiling at 105: Phil Schwartz celebrates more than a century of life and laughter
Smiles packed the community room at Coleman House as Phil Schwartz approached the microphone, joyfully leaning in while three candles flickered beside him to commemorate more than a century of life. Schwartz—a World War II veteran, father and grandfather, devoted…
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From submarines to City Hall, Newton’s new COO Josh Morse has built a career around service
Josh Morse has a desk at City Hall, but unlike other Newton officials, he considers his true office to be in Newton’s backyards and streets. Morse is Newton’s new chief operating officer, and he plans to run his office by…
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In new City Hall role, Lauren Berman looks to help Newton’s business community thrive
Lauren Berman has organized PTO fundraisers, helped revamp Newton’s farmers market and organized a “bakery crawl” to benefit small shops. Now that she has assumed the role of the city’s economic development director, she’ll have a bigger hand in supporting…
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‘I’ve been fortunate’: Newton North High School Basketball Coach Paul Connolly steps down after 24 years
On the basketball court, Paul Connolly has a booming voice. He’s making swift calls and giving players sharp guidance. His native Massachusetts accent bounces off the walls of the gym far louder than all the sneaker screeches and dribbles. But…