We are newbies compared to most here as we have made 7 trips to the island in the last 6 years. Much of our time has been spent on Orient Beach and the vast majority of that at the Club O beach even though we have never stayed there. In the beginning, we had no interest in the Club O area. We have met many friends on that beach in that relatively short time and while we spend time all over the island, I suppose we now consider that beach "home" when we are on the island.

As much as it hurts my heart to think of the loss that so many have experienced, we actually look forward to returning in July and experiencing Orient Beach as many of you have many years ago.

I have experienced a number of natural disasters in my day and in every case, the community has come back stronger as a result of nature's reset...I'm trusting SXM will do the same.