Citizens of 181 nations displayed and promoted the number 350 on Saturday, reflecting the goal of 350 parts per million of CO2 in our atmosphere. This image was one of thousands posted by International Day of Climate Action.



So, we act for the global community, but I'd like to dedicate the remainder of this page to local action.
When--in neighboring towns and cities--I mentioned that I am from Andover, I often sense healthy envy. This town has a terrific reputation for civic pride, prudent management and quality services. Here's the Town Hall behind the entrance to our highly regarded elementary and middle school:





The Town of Andover has consciously limited growth and commercial development, protected its attractive village center and promoted positive relationships with its largest property owner, tax payer and employer: Proctor Academy.

 
Relations between the town and school--generally excellent since our incorporation (for local kids) in 1848--suffered somewhat in the early 1970s, and Proctor's economic growth in the late '90s spawned some resentment that we did not contribute even more to the tax base.

 

In response, the town established an ad hoc Town/Proctor Liaison Committee comprised of leaders from each entity that meets every few months to monitor issues, concerns and opportunities for cooperation and mutual support. 

 

That committee met Monday evening. It is fascinating to consider the role of 300-something teenagers in a village that features a small public school, a mini-mart, restaurant, bank and post office serving a total population of less than 2,000 residents.

 

At Monday's meeting, the Chair of the town School Board opened with the following insights: Proctor students have volunteered as teaching aids to first and second grades; faculty contributed significantly to the annual SHARE Day; we have donated used technology hardware, 40 desks for classrooms, and our ladder truck recently enabled the elementary school to replace parking lot light bulbs.

 

It goes on: Teddy Maloney Rink is open for Friday afternoon skating (as well as public skating on Sundays,) Proctor faculty and students are enriching Math Night at AEMS (tonight!) and the George family volunteers extensively to maintain playing fields.

 

As with any lasting relationship, issues exist that demand attention. The fact that hundreds of Proctor kids cross Main Street (a euphemism for NH Routes 11 and 4) every day creates steady anxiety, and has no simple solution. Skateboarding across--and down--both Main Street and Lawrence Street is forbidden.....

 

The Town of Andover and Proctor Academy are like healthy siblings. We have grown together for a long time, and the benefits bestowed by each entity are real and appreciated. As families come to Proctor for admission visits, I hope that they sense the symbiotic nature of our relationship with our local environment. 

On a different note, I had to applaud this visiting applicant for blending in with Proctor students so thoroughly with his crutches! Are they just props?