Thursday, March 23, 2000 Older Editions

Neil Fater named Townsman editor

Neil Fater has been named editor of the Andover Townsman, effective April 3, Publisher Irving E. "Chip" Rogers III announced Monday.

He replaces Taylor Armerding, who will become a columnist for the Eagle-Tribune.

Fater, 28, an Andover native, graduated from Andover High School in 1989, and earned a BA in political science and English from Tufts University in 1993.

He has been a reporter for the Townsman since 1993. He covered the local schools during the Andover High School renovation. More recently, he has covered town government, including the Board of Selectmen and police.

In 1998, as part of a redesign of the newspaper, Fater launched an arts and entertainment section. He has been the editor of that section, in addition to his reporting duties.

Fater has won awards from the New England Press Association for both his reporting and production of infographics.

"I am confident that Neil will use his talents to continue to grow the readership of the Townsman," Rogers said.

Armerding said he shares that confidence. "Neil knows the community, he cares about it and he's ready to step up to the next level. I wish him the best," he said.

"Taylor's a tough act to follow, but I'm ready to get started," said Fater. "This is the town where I grew up, and I care about the people here.

"As a reporter, I tried to provide people with the information they needed. As editor, I look forward to also providing a constructive voice that will help make Andover an even better place to live."

Armerding, who came to the newspaper in July 1997, said he leaves the job with mixed feelings.

"Andover is a great town, with an incredible community spirit," he said. "I appreciate the continual feedback I received from readers, both complimentary and critical. It has all been helpful.

"I'll miss the daily contact with Andover, but the opportunity to devote my full energy to writing a column is something I've dreamed about for years."

Rogers said he had enjoyed working with Armerding, "and I am looking forward to reading his column not once, but three times a week."