A mix of snow, sleet and freezing rain couldn't dampen spirits at the annual Blackwater event, a celebration of Proctor's gem of a ski area. Hundreds attended, and many braved the elements to ski and ride, coming in from the slopes coated in ice! Spotlights projected our classic logos on the base of the Burden Trail and ski jumps.

 





Minibuses shuttled students to and from campus all evening, bringing our kids into contact with alumni (some of whom drove significant distances!), faculty, staff, parents and townspeople.

 




Warm wood stoves comforted skiers, snowboarders and jumpers.

 

As folks enjoyed pulled pork sandwiches, burgers and hot soups, Mike addressed the throng, hailing the tireless efforts of those who make the Blackwater function so well: Garry George, Sandy Eneguess, Larry Ballin. He offered a special tribute to Tim Norris, who has done more than anyone to promote ski jumping in New England.

 

Indeed, Proctor's Blackwater ski area demands long hours and dedication from a whole team of proud professionals. But let's also consider the volunteerism that makes something like the Blackwater event such an impressive success. Months ago, PAPA (the Parent Association) began planning all of the logistics and personnel needed. Stacey Herlitz P'11, '14 and Jerry Grote took responsibility for delegating and managing set-up, serving and clean-up. 

 



Saturday's celebration was just one example of parent volunteerism that serves this community. Over the years, some parents have supplied their child's sports team with some treats following a game. This year, however, PAPA and Athletics have coordinated an Adopt-a-Team initiative that provides impressive parent support and encouragement to teams: cook-outs, fruit and cookies, camaraderie and fun for everyone involved. Similarly, PAPA organizes the Adopt-a-Dorm program through which parents bring pizza and various treats to dormitories. 

While we are most grateful for parent volunteerism, we also know that serving our kids is the source of great joy. Only this "win-win" dynamic can explain the amount of energy we witnessed Saturday night!