The holiday season is supposed to be a festive one filled with family and friends. Regardless of one’s religious beliefs there seems to be an omnipresent sense of goodwill in the air. That’s why it is particularly tough to lose friends and associates at this time.

Late last week, we mourned the loss of Ira Trombley, a state representative from Grand Isle County. Ira was a quiet and steady legislator that could always be counted on to keep the best interests of his constituents first and foremost in his political deliberations. A couple of years back, Ira was instrumental in ensuring that new boating regulations did not work against the growing lake-based economy in our region. He talked to local business leaders, researched the subject and offered excellent amendments to a pending bill. More recently, he approached Chamber staff and simply asked how he could be of help in moving some key economic development initiatives forward. He didn’t need the limelight; he just simply wanted to be of service to Vermont. He was true citizen-legislator in the best sense. Ira, we will miss you.

Last night, we were informed that Rick Hube, the state representative from the southern Vermont region of Londonderry, had passed away while visiting his sister in Florida. Rick was one of those rare breeds of legislators that made it look simple to be bi-partisan. He would argue tenaciously for his position and, win-lose-or draw, would socialize with those with whom he just fought. Battles were not personal and politics never trumped relationships. Much will be said about Rick and his penchant for good natured practical jokes and sense of humor, much of which lampooned himself. Those of us in the Chamber will remember his work to make Vermont’s tax and fiscal system one which made responsible development a centerpiece economic growth. We will remember that whenever he gave his word, we could take it to the bank. We will remember that he was the master of assuring the fair deal. For some of us who knew him before he became a legislator, we will remember Stratton Mountain, the Jamaica House and the Red Fox. Rick, the memories will be with us until the day we join you.

Vermont has lost two treasures and our political landscape is diminished because of it. So, in keeping with their spirit, let our advocacy and legislative work be guided this year by their legacies.

Happy Holidays.