I believe what makes a community close is the interactions we enjoy by getting to know the people who live on our little island. Many residents of Bainbridge Island have made their home here because of what they noticed when they first arrived. A vibrant downtown with a sense of community, natural beauty, great schools, a variety of homes and living accommodations, plus the convenience of a world-class city only a ferry ride away.
I instantly felt I had chosen a great place to call home. When I officially called Bainbridge Island my home in 2005, I purchased a home on the old part of the Wing Point Community. The home needed everything, and we began our weekend with a trip to a wonderful hardware store in the middle of town. The bins were full of different-sized nails, and there was the aroma of freshly popped corn in red and white striped bags waiting for customers. You could hear three or four conversations between the different employees of the store and the do-it-yourselfers regarding what tools to buy or nails to use. I looked forward to accompanying my husband, and I instantly felt I had chosen a great place to call home.
T&C is another community favorite, and while the store has been pleasantly remodeled, the staff and customers have remained the same. The community spirit and camaraderie are ever present, and the buzz around the holidays makes it a special place to grocery shop.
Well, things change, and villages become towns and towns turn into tourist havens when they’re located on an island like Bainbridge. We’ve done a remarkable job of holding on to the small-town feel, which takes me to my next subject: shopping online. We all click and purchase. I know it’s convenient, but with that convenience comes a price. Having items dropped at your doorstep may feel like a convenience, but it also takes you away from the very things that drew you here in the first place. Small merchants can’t afford to pay rent, employees, taxes, and hope to stay in business when they become a place to experience but not a place to purchase.
Next time you go shopping on Bainbridge, think about the experience you have, what conversations took place, and how you interacted with a friend or a neighbor on the way to do your shopping. All those steps build community and keep us thriving here on Bainbridge. You may spend a bit more, but what you gain in return is priceless. I look forward to seeing you next time I’m out and about!
