The area has certainly had its share of storms in the past couple of weeks that knocked down trees, power lines and Marden’s flagpole. Other than the flagpole there was no other substantial damage reported thankfully. Unfortunately we are expected to have a large storm this week; winter has certainly arrived!

I find it extremely difficult to report heartbreaking news at any time of year but especially the holiday season. Sadly we lost another beloved member of our community. Pat Waldman passed away on Dec. 1 after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s. Like many of you I have lots of happy memories of Pat through the years. Pat was kind, thoughtful, cheerful, generous and certainly multi-talented in so many areas. Some of my first recollections of Pat were of her playing a competitive game of tennis with friends or family and many an afternoon swimming at the Point. Pat loved all things in nature and was involved in seal rescue for many years; she was the Ocean Point columnist for a number of years as well. I can recall the day she asked if I would take over writing the column, I certainly felt very honored and excited to be considered. Pat always greeted everyone she met with a smile and conversations with Pat were always lively, enlightening and very informative. Pat’s love for her own family was quite evident in how lovingly she spoke of each of them; John, her children Anna and John Brooks, her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, her sisters, her many nieces and nephews and extended family. The Ocean Point community sends its deepest condolences to the Waldman family; a memorial service will be held next summer and donations in Pat’s memory may be made to the following organizations: Bigelow Lab, Boothbay Sea and Science Center, or the Alzheimer’s Foundation.

On Dec. 9 former long time resident Ginny Dorman Curtis passed away at her home in Topsham. For many years Ginny’s family owned what is currently the Weiss cottage on Shore Road. I also have fond memories of Ginny as a teenager always happy, upbeat and positive and so willing to help others in need. In her adult life Ginny followed her passion for the medical profession and love for helping others by attending nursing school. After graduation Ginny pursued a nursing career and worked at several area hospitals throughout her long career. Ginny is survived by her daughter Andrea and grandson, Alan; our sincere condolences to both of them and to their Ocean Point cousins the Brown family. A memorial service is planned next summer.

Jim Dun is currently a patient at Mid Coast Hospital in Brunswick and would love to hear words of good cheer from Ocean Pointers; we wish him a speedy recovery.

On a happier note, it’s always fun to unexpectedly meet an Ocean Pointer here at home. While shopping at our local garden center I happened upon Rob and Jackie Evans. Like so many other Ocean Pointers, Rob and Jackie were able to spend a substantial amount of time at Ocean Point this summer with their daughter Emily and son Sam. Rob and Jackie report that Rob’s mom and dad, John and Sue, are fine but were not able to make the trip to the Point.

It’s also enjoyable to catch up with Ocean Pointer friends through their holiday cards, especially ones that include the family picture. What a reminder of how time is passing. Thanks for sharing your memories.

Stay positive and healthy and have a great week!