River Watch Board member, Michelle Conte, died Wednesday, November 10th, after a long and courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. I knew Michelle since I was nine and have always loved her. She was an amazing being, full of life and energy and spirit. If Michelle believed in something, her support and enthusiasm were unwavering. She had that joie de vivre, an unconquerable spark of life that filled the room. Michelle was one of the most unique persons I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. When ever I saw her, like a good board member, she would quiz me about River Watch. As was her custom, she not only inquired into the affairs of the organization but also asked me how I was because she knew how much River Watch meant to me. Michelle lived from her heart and everyone she met knew it. Michelle’s position on the Board is being filled by her daughter Sarah, a recent Cal grad in environmental sciences. Sarah is also starting up a sustainability institute that will be working closely with River Watch and Community Clean Water Institute.
~ Jack Silver