Maples in what foresters call "stress" turn color way before their peers. This annual phenomenon, the early fall experienced by "swamp maples," is noticed first by school people. This is accomplished with emotions ranging from anticipation and regret to panic. It's true: teachers are beginning to poke around the faculty room in numbers that enable whole chats. (Only a month ago, we grunted at each other in an air-conditioned dark room, busy with things to do and with all of the time in the world.) The Duty Officer roster was circulated today. Orientation business is well underway. We are doing what you do before the start of a school year.
Somehow, the advance of the new year feels different this time. The evidence of construction projects is exciting in its promise of improved facilities and an even finer campus. The Meeting House/Theatre project is front and center--a gaping crater in front of MLS and The Parsonage. Then, the construction of ten tennis courts west of Farrell Fieldhouse commands interest. Hidden to most, and of equal excitement to some, are the major enhancements to the Blackwater Ski Area, including a major upgrade of our snow-making capabilities.
