To the Editor:
I know many Islanders who know someone unconvinced by the blizzard named Juno on Jan. 27. This life-threatening storm blanketed my rooftop and blocked both doors of my home from opening as a result of many inches of snow. Barely and with great effort on my part, finally I was able to exit my home. The morning was dark and cold, very cold, outside. I was wrapped in layers and wore boots, a scarf, and two pairs of gloves, had a flashlight in one hand and a handkerchief in the other.
I managed my way outside and followed a convoy of trucks headed toward Vineyard Haven, slipping, sliding, and falling atop the icy Edgartown Road, determined to reach my final destination, known to many as “Cumbies,” AKA Cumberland Farms, located near Five Corners. This great weather, named after the Roman goddess and wife of Jupiter, may have sprinkled some of her starlight and cheerfulness over the Island. The blizzard brought together the Island’s best of the best: gallons of hot coffee, conversations about the awesomeness of Juno, survival skills, assisting friends and neighbors in need, the planning and execution to combat Juno’s aftereffects. Cumbies was perhaps one of the few retail stores operating that morning; I entered to purchase a cup of coffee, taking just a minute, or so I thought. I saw employees sweeping away rock salt and mopping potentially dangerous puddles of water off the floor. I joined the long line, unusual this time of year. Something was askew. Many patrons wishing to remain anonymous yelled, “You guys are the best,” “Praise Cumbies,” “It’s snowing outside and blowing inside,” “Who can lend me a snow blower?” “The power went out!” “You should see my driveway, because I can’t!” “The Big Chill!” “It’s a winter wonderland,” and “He’s the best plow guy we’ve got.” A man entered wearing plastic bags over his boots; someone smiled at him and shouted, “Man, you should get a bigger pair of boots.” He shook the man’s hand and replied, “Money is falling from the sky, and before it’s done I will buy 10 pairs of boots and buy as many as you and your family can carry in your plow truck illegally parked outside.” Cheers!
Behind every success story are the people who made it happen. I will not forget the feeling I felt watching the Island’s actions and reactions before and after the storm. A job well done. I am grateful to live in such a special place. Congratulations to all involved, both essential and nonessential personnel. Thanks all the way around. Last but not least, I thank Cumbies for the delightful memories.
Chris Bonner
Vineyard Haven