A Force Of Nature In 'Sconset

To the editor: Joan Porter was a force of nature.

I had the privilege of working with her several years ago on the Sconset Foot-Path Public Access Subcommittee of the Roads and Right of Way Committee. Harvey Young and I co-chaired the group, comprised of a diverse group of islanders, including Joan.

Our charge was to develop a management plan for the Bluff Walk. Joan had strong thoughts about the historic foot-path and how it was being used, and mis-used: she never hesitated to voice those opinions, often in the most strenuous of terms. (Her family home directly abutted the Bluff Walk.) I distinctly recall her spending several August days diligently counting every passer-by coming and going so that we would have an accurate tally of exactly how heavily the foot-path was used in the height of the summer.

Her love of Nantucket, and of Sconset, was deep and wide and heart-felt. She forever touched those of us who were honored to know and work with her on behalf of her cherished island. Forces of nature like Joan have made us who we are.

Sincerely,

D. Anne Atherton