Agreed, snow tires are not a necesity, but for someone that has never driven in this stuff (my assumption), they make a world of difference. Front wheel drive already makes life easier (just try rear wheel one snowy night, and you'll know what I mean), and the snow tires are added protection.
I too have spent many winters without snow tires, but I too grew up driving on unplowed roads in the Northeast, so I've had alot of experience.
Also, if you're planning on buying snow tires, it makes sense to mount them to a set of steel wheels. It will pay for itself in a couple of years, and prevents remounting and balancing of your other tires.
Additionally, the snow shovel suggestion was more for street parking. Many a night this past winter I would be digging out a parking spot for the evening, especially along the Fenway. If you have parking readily available, you probably don't need the shovel. But the ice scraper is a must!!!
Let us know if you've got any additional questions. We're always glad to help.
