Letter from a state representative

October 25, 2008 David Denelle, Editor New England Real Estate Journal 57 Washington Street Norwell, MA 02061 Dear Mr. Denelle, I am delighted that the New England Real Estate Journal has decided to highlight Cambridge. With our diverse population, vibrant economy, and strong public services, Cambridge is a wonderful community in which to live, work, and develop creative businesses. Those of us who live in Cambridge know that our distinguished universities and now thriving biotech and other science-based companies are admired throughout the state, the country, and even the world. The connection between these educational institutions and the economic innovation in our companies is palpable. As a community and political leader for many years, I see the same vibrancy reflected in the efforts of our city to nurture and serve an economically, racially, and ethnically diverse population in our schools, human services, and cultural activities. We also are home to smaller educational and non-profit institutions and programs that contribute a variety of resources. Any surprise then that Cambridge has wonderful restaurants for every pocketbook, taste, and age group and many opportunities for arts performances and exhibitions? Any surprise then that we have active neighborhood groups and other civic organizations? Any surprise then that housing is in great demand and that we struggle to maintain affordability to keep this vibrant diversity? Our geography, abutting the Charles River, gives our residents and people who work in Cambridge a special window to open space that we, a city of 100,00 in six square miles, would otherwise not have. The subway and bus system as well as bike routes throughout the city also add a special quality to living and working in Cambridge. The numerous squares - Central Square, Harvard Square, Inman Square, Kendall square, Porter Square - and other smaller centers for the neighborhoods and commerce, support the liveliness of our city. So Cambridge has thrived with the management and political leadership that have brought it to this point. We have sometimes had controversy around issues in the community, but we have been strengthened by being able to confront difficult issues and work them out. Thank you for highlighting Cambridge, Massachusetts. Visit us often. Sincerely, Alice Wolf State Representative