“My humanity is bound up in yours, for we can only be human together.” –Archbishop Desmond Tutu
The Island has lost two great humans. As I write this, my thoughts are with the families of Tricia Bergeron and Roy Scheffer, who lost their lives on New Year’s Day in a tragic accident on the water. Roy and Tricia grew up here, and between the two, I think it is safe to say, they touched the life of every person who lives here. I knew them individually as decent, generous humans — true Islanders who loved their families and their community. They each had their share of heartbreak and hardship in their lives, and when I knew them as a couple, they were so happy, and it just seemed perfect.
This is a shock wave across our Island. It brings back memories of losing Luke Gurney in 2016, and Richie Madeiras in 1999, both also seasoned fishermen, fathers, and beloved by the community. It reminds us that the sea does not discriminate or forgive.
I haven’t moved beyond shock and tears yet, but I will like to think that Tricia and Roy were doing something they loved, and they were together. People will gather over the next weeks to comfort the families and one another, as Islanders do. I hope that their families and close loved ones can feel the love, and I hope it helps them to find peace in their hearts.
The Island also lost a young man in a skiing accident in Wyoming. My heart goes out to the family of Natty Schneider, who was a MVRHS graduate, tennis star, fisherman, and avid skier. Natty was only 31 years old.
I like to make note as we begin a new year that we now have 12 months, 52 weeks, and 365 days spread before us. That totals approximately 525,600 minutes. If we take each minute as an opportunity to be kind, and each day as an opportunity to give back to our community, I think we’ll make it through just fine!
Happy birthday and happy retirement to Mel Ben David! Mel retired from M.V. Insurance on Dec. 31, and she can now celebrate her Jan. 8 birthday in style! Jan. 9 is the day to celebrate Sue Curley and Kristin Warriner. Sue’s granddaughter, Annie Combra, celebrates on Jan. 10, along with Brenda Leonard and David Burt. Annie’s dad, Richie Combra, has his day on Jan. 11. Happy birthday to Judy Thomas on the 11th also! Kim D’Arcy will party on Jan. 12.
Jan. 14 is the special day for Jenna Lambert Sylvia. Her birthday was a special day for me also, back in 1993, when Jenna arrived one day ahead of my birthday! Jan. 14 is also the day to celebrate Joe Diodati and Lianne deBettencourt. I share Jan. 15 with Debbie Whitney, Kate Foley, and Hazel McCracken.
Stay safe and hug your loved ones.
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