Looking Ahead: What fall in North Andover teaches us about community

“Summer’s over…back to work…” it’s a phrase jokingly frequently uttered around my office this time of year, but there’s always a ring of truth to it. As a community, we're back from our relaxing summer and it's time to roll up our sleeves and continue our efforts to move our town forward.

September always feels like a fresh start, especially here in North Andover. The first weeks of school bring energy and optimism to our neighborhoods, and families head out for familiar fall traditions like the annual Fall Festival or cheering on their favorite soccer stars at Foster Field. For me, the feeling of crisp air makes me nostalgic for the fall evenings at the Scout Hut, where parents and kids came together for learning, fun, and adventure.

For those of us of a certain age, early September also brings back vivid memories that aren't as happy. This past week, I attended the annual 9/11 Memorial Service hosted by the North Andover Fire Department. It was a solemn and moving reminder of how our town comes together to honor, remember, and support one another. Whether it’s through ceremonies, service projects, or simply showing up for our neighbors, North Andover proves time and again that our sense of community is strong and enduring.

These early fall moments always ground me in why I serve. They remind me that local leadership is about long-term stewardship. It’s about protecting what we love, planning for the future, and staying connected to the people we represent. I’m proud of the work we’ve done together, and I’m looking ahead to what we can continue to build, together.