Last summer we had the privilege of welcoming President Barack Obama to Windham. My family and I were on vacation at the time, but we followed the event with excitement. We told our children that it was an honor and a privilege to have the President of the United States visit our town, see our faces, and learn our names. I don't know how campaign staff members select towns and cities to visit, but judging from the number of stops made in Windham, we are clearly on someone's radar.
Presidential hopefuls are not the only ones looking at Windham as an important step for their future success. I have met at least half a dozen families who have moved to Windham within the last year. They moved here in 2012, when our taxes were at an all-time high. They moved here because of our location, our schools, and our safe neighborhoods. Many people I spoke to were surprised to learn about the overcrowding in the schools. Yet each and every one of them is supporting the bond for the new school. This will raise our taxes, but the folks new to town aren't protesting, arguing, or saying no. They all see the need and are willing to pay for it.
Over the last few years I have been wondering when the next group of local leaders would step forward. I have been worried that work and family demands are making it difficult for people to volunteer and take an active role in town organizations and politics. Some of my worries are being laid to rest. It was so refreshing to be at the School Deliberative session last Saturday night and hear applause and support for all of the School Warrant Articles. I give the School Board credit for the hard work they did behind the scenes in order to prepare for the meeting. I give the Windham Initiative for a New School credit for mobilizing voters to attend. And I give the residents of Windham - old and new - credit for getting involved. Whether Windham is just a step along the way or a permanent stop for you and your family, welcome to Windham!
