Taking a look back at 2011, the towns of Hollis, Brookline and Merrimack saw a sense of increased community spirit, from students raising money to help others to organizations supporting veterans and lending a hand at fundraisers for people suffering from illnesses. Seeing a need to protect resources, many towns enhanced their environmental and preservation efforts as well. Volunteers continued to maintain recreational trails, renovated the Kids Kove playground, helped build a handicapped-accessible elevator at the American Legion Post and protected the heritage surrounding the Beaver Brook Association conservation area. But it wasn’t all work. Residents, families and friends gathered at fun events such as Old Home Days in Hollis, the Ghost Train Rail Trail Race in Brookline, and the Fourth of July celebration in Merrimack, to name a few activities held during the year. It was also a time to remember the nearly 3,000 lives lost on Sept. 11, 2001. For the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 tragedies, the Journal asked readers to sent in their reflections in stories and poems. Many people responded with heartfelt memories.

The staff at the Journal wishes everyone a happy and prosperous 2012. We look forward to hearing about your events, achievements and efforts in making your towns great places in which to live.