
Radiolab
Rumble Strip: Finn and the Bell
Aug 25, 2023
Erica Heilman, an independent podcast producer known for her poignant storytelling, joins Tara Reese, the mother of Finn Rooney, to reflect on Finn's life and the community's healing after his tragic loss. They share heartfelt anecdotes about Finn's vibrant spirit and his efforts to unite their small Vermont town. The conversation touches on themes of grief, connection, and the enduring legacy of a community coming together, emphasizing the importance of shared memories symbolized by a historic bell that unites them in remembrance.
38:34
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Quick takeaways
- The community's response to Finn's passing showcased the healing power of communal support in times of tragedy.
- Tara's profound realization about the purpose of life emphasized the importance of supporting and caring for one another.
Deep dives
Finn's Dream of the Bell: Bringing a Community Together
Finn Rooney, a beloved student at Haysin Union High School in Vermont, had a dream to bring a bell back to his community. Inspired by the historical use of a bell in the nearby town of Hardwick, Finn believed the bell could serve as a unifying symbol, ringing out to celebrate not just sports wins, but also spelling bees and births. After Finn tragically took his own life, the community rallied together to fulfill his dream. They obtained a donated bell from the old Greensboro School and undertook a moving ceremony to transport it to Hazen Union. The bell now rings to mark high points, games, and graduations, serving as a poignant reminder of the legacy left by Finn.
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