In a direct punch to the collective gut of Sabres devotees, the Sabres family has lost #7, Rich Martin this afternoon of an apparent heart attack while driving in Clarence.  I will admit that i was never able to watch Martin play aside from the occasional Youtube highlight reel (which i refreshed my memory with after hearing the news) - but i've never heard a bad word from anyone about not only Rick's skill on the ice but his character and personality off of it.  In light of all the recent revelry - 'The French Reconnection' as it has been coined - brought upon by new owner Terry Pegula, this loss sends an even more immediate and heartfelt shockwave to old-time Sabres fans and new fans alike.  I only hope that this terrible event will not dampen, or extinguish Pegula's efforts to bring pride and history back to the gates of HSBC Arena - but rather ignite the quest of our Sabres faithful to take an active role in getting to know these great Sabres alumni, these pillars of our storied past - before we lose their voices forever.  As has been said, you never know where you are going until you know where you have been.  Today, we will mourn our #7 - but tomorrow we will look back joyfully at this man's legacy, his contributions, and his spirit -  for all of the blood, sweat, and tears he has bestowed upon our cherished franchise - I give a whole-hearted thank you.  RIP Rico