Why I Love Where I Live (Fun Monday #4)

Our town fathers were visionary. They planted trees and designed streets to showcase original architecture. Current civic leaders are committed to revitalizing the old and carrying on the tradition of creating beauty and substance. (click on the photo for a better view)


There are 18 public parks (and facilities).
That is a lot for a town of under 35,000 people.












This year all of our snow fell in Colorado or New York.
The trees are naked, but not ashamed.









There were trees on every corner.
Wind, age, and disease take their toll.
Most property owners replace those lost.










More.










On a rainy day I see their reflection.


They have spread their branches
over many changing seasons.









An old evergreen provides color in stark
contrast to the gnarled ancient deciduous.
But, their glory will come with summer.







Pretend that is a moat around
a castle. It rained much last night.











A house and tree from
my non existent passenger's view.












One of the six elementary schools.
The structure on the far right was built in 1898.
A few years ago the school district restored
the original and built the replica to its left
to accommodate the growing population.

The high school has a beautiful creek
that meanders through a 48 acre open campus.
(sorry I forgot to take a picture)





There are three institutions of higher learning. The
clock tower at the 4-year liberal arts college keeps
track of the times only a few blocks from downtown.






These ducks are graduates of the
"Use The Cross-Walk" course.

I obliged them.








Stone churches with stained glass windows.
Lots of churches.














Downtown is friendly and inviting.
In 2001 the city was a recipient of
The Great American Main Street award.
Coffee shops and wine tasting
are popular.








In 2002 Sunset Magazine named it as one of
The Best in The West.











In 2006 Money Magazine named my town
one of the countries "Best Places To Retire."

A Main Street merchant knows exactly
what all that publicity is worth.








To read more Fun Monday posts please click here and visit this Fun Monday Host Marnie at I didn't say it...!