Spring is officially here, but there is snow on the ground. Those hot July days seem very far away, but not for the Andover Fourth of July Committee.

We have been meeting all year to work out all the details of being a town committee. With most of that behind us, we are turning our attention to our annual fundraising.

Traditionally, the month of May begins our efforts. Under the leadership of Irene Jewett and Wanda Smith, a team of dedicated volunteers canvass the town, street by street, for donations for the Fourth of July celebration. There are numerous expenses, but fireworks and bands take up most of our budget. A complete financial accounting is in the annual Town Report.

In the past, Andover residents have been very generous, and we appreciate your support.

For the last several years we have been running in the red, but in 2012 we actually came out slightly ahead. Part of this was due to the proceeds from the quilt raffle and the Boy Scout collection on the Village Green. We also were missing one of our bands.

When you donate , your name is listed in the official Fourth of July program. All donations have to be in by the end of May to have your name published. Of course we will accept donations anytime; the deadline is just for the program.

You receive a receipt for your donation, which is tax deductible. If for some reason your house is missed or you are not at home, please call Wanda at 735-5434 or Irene at 735-5271. They will be happy to make arrangements to get your donation.

Can You Help Canvass?

Irene and Wanda could use some more volunteers. If you can help, please give them a call. It is only once a year, and you get to meet your neighbors. I’ve actually made some new friends this way.

Our Fourth of July celebration is a wonderful tradition that many children and adults look forward to all year. Other towns wonder how we manage all the activities.

You are the folks that have supported this independence holiday and made it possible for the last 70 years.