Reading today’s edition of the Boston Globe, I came across this comic strip by Terri Libenson….I thought it was a perfect commentary for the last day of winter break in Massachusetts communities!  Enjoy….

The end of winter break in the Andovers

Andover Budget Blog

We all know that the cost of owning a home in Andover is more than just the initial sale price.   Real estate taxes are a large part of your home buget and while no one likes paying taxes, we know that the town services and amenties we enjoy here in Andover come with a cost.  Spring is not only the season of warrmer weather and blossuming trees, but also the season of town meetings and budget discussions.  With that in mind I thought I’d introduce you to the Andover Budget Blog–your chance to follow the discussion,  ask questions and become an informed resident and voter in Andover.

Your Vote Counts

I’ve been getting calls and emails all week from both campaigns asking for my vote in Tuesday’s special election.  Tomorrow I will cast my vote and I hope you will all do the same. This is an exceedingly important election – your vote will count!

Old Town Hall Andover, MA

For more ideas on how to enjoy these winter months take a look at the many activities offered right here in town by the Department of Community Services. There are indoor and outdoor activities and field trips for children and adults alike and for those who like to plan ahead you’ll find a schedule of Andover Community events planned for the spring and summer as well. While I remember having to arrive early at the Doherty Middle School auditorium to reserve a spot for my children in the most popular activities, you can now register online . Page 3 of the booklet features an introduction and overview of current Andover happenings by our Town Manager, Buzz Stapczynski–good information whether you live in Andover or are thinking about buying a home in Andover.

Outdoor fun in Andover

No, the superbowl won’t be as much fun this year for local homeowners without the Patriots…but there still is plenty to do in Andover and North Andover on weekend afternoons.  Here’s one idea for outdoor winter fun. Did you know  you can rent or buy snowshoes or cross country skis at Moore and Mountain 3 Railroad Square, Andover.  Then enjoy some fresh air and exersize on one of our local  trails in Andover or North Andover.

Andover Central Park

North Andover Olde Center

These photos remind us of why we love living here in Andover and North Andover….a beautiful fall afternoon!  Find your dream home here in the Andover area!

Don't forget to register your vehicle

I don’t know about you but I have enough things to remember every day.  In a cost saving move the state of Massachusetts will no longer be mailing you those helpful reminders to renew your automobile registration.  Fear not, however, you can sign up for the registry’s electronic reminder service.  Why take the chance of risking a costly oversight?  There’s more to being your local Andover and North Andover neighborhood expert than just searching the MLS!

Rescheduled for this Saturday October 17 — let’s hope the weather cooperates this time. Come celebrate the new downtown Andover.

Click here for a full list of the day’s activities.

Finally, the construction in downtown Andover is coming to an end. We’ve survived challenging detours, mud, temporary signs and orange cones blocking our favorite parking spaces. If you haven’t been downtown recently you’re in for a treat.  Improved lighting, crosswalks, underground utilities and turning lanes are just a few of the upgrades, and yes it does look great.  To celebrate the Andover Center Business Association is having a party. Because of the rainy weather predicted for this weekend. The celebration has been rescheduled for  Saturday, October 17  from 9-5.  A full day of events and activities is planned so I hope to see you there!

It’s that fun time of year again!  I’m so thankful to live in a country where we shoot cannons and explosives into the night sky to celebrate our freedom and not to overthrow repressive governments and dictators.  Around the world there is unrest—Honduras, Iran, Iraq and Pakistan are just a few of the world regions where freedom and the right to “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness” are just a distant hope and dream.  I hope you will take some time this Independence Day to celebrate our treasured heritage with family and loved ones.  Remember always how blessed we are, how important it is to protect our freedom and to give thanks to those who came before us and sacrificed much to leave us the legacy and lifestyle we enjoy today.  To help you enjoy your 4th of July Holiday, here is a list of local holiday events, activities and of course Fireworks!

Andover

July 3: Andover High School, 80 Shawsheen Road with performance by Middlesex Concert Band at 7 p.m., followed by fireworks at dusk.

July 4: The Park, Bartlet Street, with jazz band concert at 8-9:30 a.m.; pancake breakfast (adults $5, children/seniors, $3; Horribles parade, 9:30 a.m.; children’s games, prizes and entertainment, 10-11:30 a.m.; Middlesex Concert Band, 10:30 a.m.-noon. 

North Andover

July 3: Town Common in Old Center with family picnic, music by Russ McQueen, beer and wine tent, 5-8 p.m.

July 4: Town Common, 28th annual Merrimack Valley Striders Road Race starts 8 a.m.; food, children’s games, crafters and display tents, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; doll carriage and bike parade, pony rides, Rotary Club castle, beer and wine tent, starting at noon. Fireworks at North Andover Middle School, 9 p.m. Free parking and shuttle service from North Andover High to common, 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

July 5: Town Common with Military Appreciation Day non-denominational service at 9 a.m. with Ulysses S. Grant re-enactor, crafters and display tents, 10 a.m.; dunk tank, pony rides at noon; vintage baseball, 3 p.m.; performance by Jazz Disciples, 3:30 p.m.; beer and wine tent, noon.