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Small Town USA

This morning Beth and I had a conversation as I stopped for my morning paper. We both appreciate the fact that we were raised in small towns. I spent most of my formative years in Hinckley, Ohio and Beth spent her childhood in Sharon Center, Ohio. I have lived in Rittman for the past 26 years. Beth had mentioned about some of her siblings who moved to metropolitan areas, but she had always enjoyed life close to home.

One thing I always enjoy about living in Rittman is that although the town is small, population about 7000, major shopping areas are no more than 20 minutes away. Even the ride to work is easier due to the freeway being close to my home.

I lived in Cleveland for two years in the late seventies. There was quite a lot within walking distance, or accessable by public transportation, but there was also this thing about being lulled to sleep at night by police sirens. I decided it was not for me.

It's also nice to be able to brag about being heard all over town on Friday nights during the football season:)

Comments

Mike Golch said…
We all seem to live where we feel confortable.Me I was born here raised here in Cleveland.I do not know if I could handle the quietness of an area where you live.
September 22, 2009 4:47 PM
Pat Jenkins said…
it is nice living in a small town, you get to know everyone... yours truly mayberry rfd....
September 22, 2009 7:14 PM
Ms Hen's said…
Small towns remind me of my favorite play.. Our Town by Thorton Wilder. Did you ever read it? You would love it.
September 22, 2009 8:00 PM
J. Moses said…
I've done some of both. I lived in a farmhouse in Butler County for a bit. I also have lived near the center of everything in Cincinnati (the Northgate area), and I've lived in a trailer and a house here in Florence. I think I was more cut out to be a city boy...
September 23, 2009 7:17 AM
wzzp said…
Is that across the way from Jerry's apartment? Serenity NOW!
September 23, 2009 5:04 PM
Anonymous said…
I grew up in Wickliffe, Ohio and lived my high school years in Rittman. Wonderful experience! I remember that to get a job "downtown" you had to have good grades and be approved by the principal. I worked at the department store...a very coveted job. I was never bored as a teenager tho...my friend's dad owned the music store, we had the rec center, and we used to joke that burglers could have a haul on Friday night because everyone was at the football game. Great memories! I live on Amelia Island now...just about the same. Oh, except I do have an ocean.

Judy Nehls Sanza, in Fernandina Beach
September 24, 2009 9:43 AM
Cliff said…
Judy, thanks for your comments. If you happen to be around Rittman, say on October 24, come to the band show. Since you an RHS band alumnis, I would introduce you during the show. I got a mic and know how to use it.
September 24, 2009 9:59 AM
Syd said…
I grew up in a small town in Virginia. It had its good and bad points. But I believe that I appreciate the small town atmosphere much more now that I'm an adult.
September 24, 2009 2:25 PM
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