Recently, we learned of the passing of two leaders in our community, Jim Arbuckle and Avis Hinks.

Each of these very special individuals made a significant difference in making our community a better place to live.

Jim’s preference was to be the quiet, behind-the-scenes leader to a great variety of boards and organizations that needed sound, visionary leadership ranging from our local hospital to the Besser Chorus to our college.

Avis’ special skills were many, but most notable was her unbounded enthusiasm for life and as The Alpena News once defined her contributions … as a true renaissance woman.

Yes, both will be missed, but both have left a legacy that will be long remembered in our community and I believe each will be watching our progress as a community from their special place in heaven!

DON NEWPORT,

Alpena and Greenbush