By Jacqueline Zuzgo
Jones Group Realtors
Chamber Board Member since 2008

Editors note: This is the fourth in a series of posts from the Chamber's Board of Directors

Just a few days ago, my gaze was attracted to the cemetery out my office window here at the Jones Group.  A large tour bus caught my eye as it was allowing its passengers to disembark.  I couldn’t help but watch them make their way around the peaceful landscape that marks the quiet resting place of our local icon, Emily Dickinson.  Emily's musings on life and nature hold a power strong enough to call her fans to Amherst, the place she herself was born, lived, and  “Called Back” from. A quintessential New England town we have come to know and love century after century. 

Time and again I am reminded of the wondrous history that surrounds us here in Amherst, Massachusetts.  Emily Dickinson is but one example the long history of writers and artists who have lived and worked in the backyards of Amherst.  Their words and art continue to enthrall people  from around the world.  I am often delighted by the fact that in spite of the influx of a huge student population from all over the world, our town continues to hold dear to a “small town” familiarity.

For myself, whether it’s a quick stop for gasoline from Ren’s Mobil, shopping at Zanna’s, or enjoying lunch at Judie’s, people know me by name.  I am always welcomed at Judie’s by either Judie or Katie with a warm and gracious hello.  These women are quick to recommend a tasty new dish and kindly ask after my family and what’s happening with my work. 

Amherst is a small town with big offerings and a huge heart – a place most certainly for me!