On June 3, Gov. Lynch took nearly an hour out of his busy schedule to meet with my fifth-grade students from Walker School in Concord. After answering their questions, the governor invited the students into his office and posed for photographs. This hour created a life-long memory for the children, and I am grateful to him.

Many people who contributed to this project also deserve recognition. Liz Ignacio of the governor's staff helped organize this event. Steve Rothenberg of the Concord School District and Jon Greenberg of New Hampshire Public Radio each put in several hours helping my students prepare to conduct an interview at this level. The paraprofessional in my class, Cathy Light, was a great sounding board for ideas and a source of information.

What most impressed me was the response of the community. When I called to ask people to come in as guest speakers to educate my students, most were more than happy to help. Former gubernatorial candidate and current radio host Arnie Arnesen jumped at the chance to talk to my students. Charlie Arlinghaus, director of the Josiah Bartlett Center, Steve Varnum of the Children's Alliance of New Hampshire, Mary Downs of Concord C.A.T.C.H. and Nancy Girard of the New Hampshire Advocacy Law Center all eagerly volunteered. This outpouring of support reminded me why I choose to live and work in this area. Sincere thanks to all of you.

Last but not least, I thank my amazing class. Time and again this year, I have asked you to step up to the plate and you have hit the ball out of the park. I am enormously proud of all of you.

PAUL BOURASSA

Concord