I read with sadness of Hilary Emmer stepping down from the Vashon-Maury Island Community Council. In the years we served together, she proved a courageous advocate for Islanders, social justice and those less fortunate. Her voice there will be greatly missed.

When Hilary first joined the council in 2007, my very first reaction was, “Well, there’s a breath of fresh air.” And that is exactly what she proved to be: a strong, get-it-done, good-humored, insightful, passionate spirit, always working to bring out the best in others and seeking creative solutions. Hilary worked countless hours organizing forums on tourism, the Island-wide recycling event, fighting to protect ferry service and so much more.

I don’t know where Ms. Emmer will choose to direct her considerable talents and energy to in the future. But I do know that whatever she decides to focus her attention on, and whatever group she decides to advocate for, they will be inheriting a gem — in short, the kind of Island neighbor we all could hope to have a few more of in the years to come.

— Kyle Cruver