ARE WE AT A TIPPING POINT?

Nantucket has generated more than its share of national press lately, not all of which has been positive. From the release of a boat at Old North Wharf to the clam shack war and the cutting down of mature trees on a ’Sconset property, the perception is being created that the island is rife with billionaires behaving badly. But the larger question is whether the powerful lure of Nantucket has begun to actually impact the island on a deeper level?

The lack of affordable housing, constant traffic jams and astronomically high food costs are further symptoms of an island that has become so popular that its success has begun to challenge the quality of life here. These are the tangible symptoms of an island whose growth may have exceeded its capacity, but there are more subtle impacts of the explosion of Nantucket’s popularity over the years.

There has always been, and still remains, a certain unwritten, understated sensibility about Nantucket that makes it so appealing, but that sensibility seems to be fraying at the edges. In many ways, the island has been a throwback in time where people are polite to one another, rally around those in need, protect its built and natural environment, and place humility above wealth. What we have seen lately in a series of highprofile transgressions are challenges to the notion of Nantucket being a refuge of decency in a world that is becoming increasingly divisive and confrontational.

But even with the unflattering press and seemingly ever-expanding summer population, Nantucket is still a remarkable gem that needs to be protected.

For example, while efforts are being made to increase affordable housing, the solutions need to be taken to a higher level. Property transfer fees could benefit more than the Land Bank and should help support those who are the backbone of this island. When firefighters, police officers, nurses and teachers struggle to afford basic necessities, priorities need to change if this island is to continue to function. While it is impossible to legislate behavior, summer residents and island visitors need to somehow understand that Nantucket’s difference is one of its greatest strengths. We all have the privilege of being in a place that is truly remarkable on multiple levels, and it is our obligation to be active stewards in keeping it that way.

Publisher

BRUCE A. PERCELAY Publisher

A Heartfelt Thank You To Rob Cocuzzo

Twelve years ago, I had the good fortune to meet Rob Cocuzzo as a contributor to N Magazine, and he was soon elevated to the position of editor. Holy Cross-educated with a quiet but tireless work ethic, Rob became my alter ego and helped guide this publication to its role as the leading magazine on the island. Indeed, many stories covered by N Magazine during his tenure went national, including a cover with Bill Belichick and Linda Holliday, which generated over 10 million views.

From the first magazine in the world to feature a newly elected President Joe Biden on the cover to a piece on the vandalism at the African Meeting House, under Rob’s leadership, we have won scores of awards for the quality of our written product. Rob’s new venture, Legacy Literature, will give him a new opportunity to chronicle fascinating people. At the same time, he will stay on as a consultant and contributor to N Magazine. He will be replaced by Antonia DePace from Modern Luxury Media Group, who oversaw both the Philadelphia and Boston market publications, producing approximately 30 magazines a year. Her youthful energy and vision will take N Magazine to an even higher level. Speaking for myself and our team, Rob’s contribution to this magazine and the deep friendships he created while being here cannot be quantified and we want to thank him for a job well done.

Rebecca SETTAR

Although born in Pennsylvania, Rebecca Settar has unwittingly spent half her life in New England and lived on Nantucket Island for more than a decade.

Rebecca is a regular contributor to N Magazine , as well as Boston Magazine , Yesterday’s Island and more, and has recently published her first book, a collection of short stories called The List.

Charity GRACE MOFSEN

Charity Grace Mofsen captures the island of Nantucket in all its glory. With a particular affinity for astrophotography, she believes there is always light, if you have eyes to see it. From fine art landscapes to fun portrait sessions and creative product photography, she finds joy sharing her love of Nantucket with the hope that others will also cherish the island’s natural beauty. Featured in Framebridge’s “The Black Artists Print Shop,” her work speaks to [wo]man’s connection to the cosmos. Describing her style as meditative, Mofsen highlights the beauty of the island’s contrasts—the solitude of the off-season and the joy of summer, the colors of the light and the wisdom of the night.

Larry LINDNER

Larry Lindner is a New York Times bestselling author who also penned a nationally syndicated column for The Washington Post for several years. His writing has appeared in publications ranging from The Los Angeles Times to The Boston Globe Sunday Magazine, Conde Nast Traveler, and Reader’s Digest. His latest book, Forever Home, has received praise from such notables as Cold Mountain author Charles Frazier and Brooke Shields. Lindner is currently working on a novel.