Rob: "The Invisible String"

Rob's message board gave birth to Rizla back in 1999. At the time, I was new to message boards, but I picked the name and like aliases tend to do in Negril, it caught on quickly.

After about nine years of trips, I started writing reports about Barry's Bold as Love and Coconuts International, and that opened my world to others who loved Jamaica just as much as I did. Some of my closest, most treasured friendships began on that board, all because of Rob.

He was not always the most popular guy because people did not get that Negril.com was built for advertising, and they criticized him for not showing the real scene. But honestly, what ad campaign ever shows the messy parts? He never abandoned ship, and I have always respected that. He was always kind to me and made me feel valued on the board.

Hearing this news pulls me right back to the early days with Crazy Tracy, RastaJohn, Blondie, IrieMarie, Jack Sprat, Pirate, Easy Rock Sue, Cindy, JoeCool, JessZ, Rhonda, VicT, MaryB, Smith744. So many faces and personalities that are still vivid even if the names blur. Rob was the invisible string that tied so many of us together.

I would like to think Rob is resting easy now, somewhere along the West End, watching over all of us when we make our way back to the village he loved.

With love & respect,
Riz

https://www.realnegril.com/beingees/nn040299.htm

Riz,

Wonderful tribute to Rob and a reminder that there were tough times running this board over the years!

Hi Riz,

You said it nicely… it’s been a long time since I posted on this board… my husband follows it, but I thought I would respond. You also mentioned old handles and great peeps from the past.

Rob was a true pioneer.. & the invisible thread that most definitely tied us all together.

We have great memories from first meeting Rob’s at the beginning of his webcasts days and the board! He was happy doing his thing and meeting new people! So many friends met from around the world and continued relationships from Negril meetings,

He will be missed by us all… Thank you for all you did.. and may you rest in peace Rob ❤️ �� ��