One school of business management theory suggests that organizations should allow employees' talents, passions and skills to determine the exact nature of products and services. Applied to a school, this calls for programs to evolve organically, rather than saying, "Okay....we want to have kayaking, so let's go find a kayaking coach." I use that example, because kayaking started at Proctor with the arrival of Bert Hinkley in the mid-70s. Indeed many of Proctor's most unique offerings evolved in response to extraordinary adult talent: rock climbing, ski jumping, forestry, drama, dance, voice, jazz/rock, recording...the list goes on. In recent years, Dave Kenney's passion for bow hunting, fishing, etc. has been reflected in a spring afternoon activity called "Field & Stream." Last week, seven students from this spring's program traveled to a ski area in Ellicottville, New York for the International Bow Hunting 2010 World Championships. Also participating and coaching (below left) was Charlie Cloutier '04.

 

They comprised the only teenage team of 2,300 competitors. This is a warm-up exercise:



In groups of four, (mixed with other archers,) they navigated the top of the mountain, identifying and shooting 3-D animal figures placed in thickets, woods and fields. The sport requires exacting calculations of distance, enabling the archer to gauge correct tension for the arrow's release. More practice:



These seven kids qualified for the World Championships in competition in Massachusetts this past May. Andrew and Caleb ride the lift to the top:

 

Now let's check out a ski area we all know and love. From Main Street, Andover, the difference between the Burden Trail (left) and the Blackwater Trail is obvious:

 

This month, the Blackwater Trail has been "homologated," or brought up to USSA specifications for length and width. The process involved dynamiting and removing tons of granite ledge, widening and grading the slope. New lighting will be installed, and our ski area will offer two functional racing trails, enabling simultaneous slalom and giant slalom competition.

 

Here is the view looking north, with Proctor and Ragged Mountain in the background: