77.8 F
Cruz Bay
Friday, March 29, 2024
HomeNewsArchivesMELCHIOR SR.: A PRESENCE, AND NOW AN ABSENCE

MELCHIOR SR.: A PRESENCE, AND NOW AN ABSENCE

Dear Source,
Presence.
Commanding yet quiet. Smooth charismatic Presence. Ariel Melchior Sr. was always there.
And now, Absence.
Mindful of his endearing spirit of counsel, what do you say about an icon that stood for words – those written, spoken and held close to heart? All such words in some way or another have been said over the last few days since his passing. Cliché-ish or not.
Senior (as he was known by some of us) used to say, "Never create a void you can't fill." But, wouldn't you know it: Today we indeed feel that very void.
And the very Absence of Senior's Presence will forever be felt in our hearts, minds and soul of the Virgin Islands that he so craftily helped to mold into a modern-day society.
A statesman's statesman. A governor's governor. The consummate watchman that reports the "out of ordinary." The Publisher who had his community's interest always at heart.
That The Daily News, in his typical vision and imagination, remains as bold as it is today, in itself speaks to the monument of a hardened legacy of world-class community journalism and political steerage from the power of the pen. After all, Senior also reminded us in the newsroom that we were writing history, as the "newspaper of record."
And so it was. So it is.
On a personal note: I thank Senior for my first job, The Daily News' 45th Anniversary project, and his continued guidance and encouragement to successfully pursue journalism, or as he called it – newspapering. I thank him for showing me the ropes in photography, printing and "reportage." Thank you for opening my mind and doors of opportunity. Thank you, Senior, for a long friendship.
Senior, go in peace with that warming chuckle and wide smile. Heaven needs a good newspaper. Carter is ready to roll. Save a column for me.
Steve Bornn
Washington, D.C. and St. Thomas
We welcome and encourage readers to keep the dialogue going by responding to Source commentary. Letters should be e-mailed with name and place of residence to source@viaccess.net.
Publisher's note : Like the St. Thomas Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice … click here.

Print Friendly, PDF & Email
Keeping our community informed is our top priority.
If you have a news tip to share, please call or text us at 340-228-8784.

Support local + independent journalism in the U.S. Virgin Islands

Unlike many news organizations, we haven't put up a paywall – we want to keep our journalism as accessible as we can. Our independent journalism costs time, money and hard work to keep you informed, but we do it because we believe that it matters. We know that informed communities are empowered ones. If you appreciate our reporting and want to help make our future more secure, please consider donating.