|
What shocked us about Nancy's death
was the savage way in which she died that abruptly snatched
her away. There was no lingering illness for us to prepare
ourselves and no one remained to be punished. As a chapter,
we have said our goodbyes and will honor her memory and spirit
in a variety of ways, including a Nancy Richards-Akers annual
award for the published author who has contributed the most
in the development of the unpublished authors.
On the national level, Avon publishers
paid tribute to Nancy at the national conference. The reception
took place at the Hyatt Regency on Thursday, July 29, 1999.
Avon extended an open invitation to come and share in the
memories and also provide an opportunity to bring closure.
The program opened with Avon editors and Nancy's agent describing
Nancy's sweet, fun-loving spirit. There was no formal agenda
and anyone could share their thoughts.
Joan Schalhafer, Vice President and
Director of Publicity emceed. Carrie Feron, Executive Editor
read Karen Kay's (who was unable to attend) words. Lyssa Keusch,
Senior Editor and Nancy's editor, shared her thoughts. Helen
Breitwiser was Nancy agent and spoke about how their relationship
developed into a friendship. Marie Elena Martinez, Avon Publicist
was responsible for all the logistical arrangement. Thank
you for a wonderful moment.
WRW had strong representation and
many of its members shared their memories. Anne Marie Rogers
donated the memory book for viewing, which is still under
construction documenting Nancy's life. The book will be given
to her parents with the hope that the children will some day
be able to see their mother's accomplishments and her other
family in the writing world who loved her unconditionally
with strong, permanent, healthy friendships. Anne Marie sends
her thanks to those who contributed with donations of pictures,
articles, and stories.
Bette McNicholas and Karen Smith shared
their thoughts and what WRW will do in Nancy's name. Eileen
Charbonneau sang an Irish lullaby that did not leave a dry
eye in the room . After which, I spoke about Nancy. On request,
I share my words with you:
I can't talk about memories shared
with Nancy as a personal friend or a fellow published author.
However, she was a woman. I am a woman. She was a mother.
I am a mother. She loved her craft. I love it too. As sisters
of the earth, my heart grieves. But in keeping with one of
her missions to help unpublished authors, I will make her
proud. I will continue to love my craft with a voracious appetite.
Peace be with you , Nancy.
The healing has begun and we move
forward, a little more aware.
|
