### Community Supports Victims of Boston Marathon: LaMarche and McGovern Raise $3,000
In four hours, Olivia LaMarche ’16 and Peyton McGovern ’16 ran a combined 26.2 miles last Sunday in honor of the victims of the Boston Marathon bombing, many of whom will never run again. By collecting pledges and donations in Paresky Commons prior to the run, the girls have raised upwards of $3,000 for One Fund Boston, an organization created by Governor Deval Patrick and Mayor Tom Menino to help victims and their families. LaMarche and McGovern started their run from the Boston Marathon finish line in Copley Square, where the bombing occurred on April 15. They then alternated running relay style, each running five miles at a time via Route 128 until they reached the Great Lawn at Andover to meet the students and faculty who came out in their support. “We wanted to raise money, but we thought it would have more meaning if we ran too,” said LaMarche. Both she and McGovern have strong connections to the Boston Marathon. McGovern’s father had run the marathon multiple times and LaMarche’s grandparents live in Boston. In addition to collecting donations, LaMarche and McGovern coordinated the signing of two posters to be placed at the makeshift memorials in Copley Square.
### Student Band Dedicates Performance to Victims
Four out of the six members of Finder’s Keepers, an alternative/folk band on campus, spent last Sunday “busking” in Boston Commons to raise money for Boston Marathon victims. Aaron Finder ’13, Henry Kennelly ’13, Seho Young ’15 and Josh Henderson ’15 raised $210 playing a repertoire that ranged from Mumford and Sons, Old Crow Medicine Show, Zac Brown Band and improvised pieces. This was the group’s second time performing together after premiering in Abbot Cabaret this winter. “I am just so proud of those guys and grateful for the enthusiasm and energy we were able to bring to the Public Gardens that day for such a worthy cause,” said Finder. Although the band had planned to play last Sunday before the bombings happened,” Finder said that as soon as they heard the news they immediately decided the proceeds should go towards One Fund Boston. “The fact that the money is going back to the people of Boston made the experience truly special for us. We were playing in Boston, for the benefit of Boston,” said Finder.
### Town Holds Candlelight Walk
The town of Andover organized a Candlelight Vigil Walk on Wednesday, May 1, in support of the victims, families and heroes of the Boston Marathon bombings. Following the opening remarks by Ted Teichert was the recognition of the first responders, a blessing and renditions of the Star Spangled Banner and God Bless America. The ceremony concluded with guest speakers, a lighting of the candles and a march led by bagpipes. All were invited to attend, according to Nancy Lang, Instructor in Math, who has been involved in Andover town events in the past.
