By Steve Ulvi
Contributor
Like so many, I am deeply troubled by untethered national political extremism, dishonesty and the cynical corruption of democratic processes. But just as winter conditions turn us inward, the age-old traditions during the darkest days renew hope.
So, I’ll ring a bell of gratitude for some influences that nurture a positive sense of place and community, even among the cohort of newcomers willing to embrace reality.
The friendliness of recognition and kind interaction with clerks, small business staff, delivery drivers, upbeat librarians, harried postal workers and the many others who assist us, remind us that we belong here together.
Land Bank Preserves spawned by our very best idea; special parcels locked open, revealed by the design of mixed-use trails that invite re-creation among small wonders, rare moments of solitude, ecological insights and stunning views.
The photos and stories of residents who have reached the end of their trail, posted to gently remind them of our impermanence and to honor them as islanders. Skoal!
South Beach, nakedly exposed to weather and tides; elegant coves, huge landscape views, long beach walks, always changing light. Amazing lake-like calm, confused waters or shore-pounding spume resets a mind caught up in daily worries.
So many who contribute to social cohesion, often volunteering, donating or otherwise energizing our community and extending a helping hand to those in need.
Matt’s fresh fish, boat to processing, helping us to obtain highest quality, rich oceanic flesh and the healthful magic of omega-3s.
Musical and theatrical experiences; soaring emotions, eyebrow-raising local talent and the best eruptive “warm San Juan Island welcome” around.
County Park; a bucolic jewel, boat access to westside fishing spots and old-school public camping graced by gorgeous sunsets.
The salt-of-the-earth regulars and exceptional staff at my watering hole – a museum of bygone big fish brags – Haley’s Bar and Grill. Always a relaxed family atmosphere, laughter contagiously flows, engaging conversations, personal respect and good food. No foo-foo nor pickled pig’s feet!
Overwintering swans, highly visible in fields or ponds, most impressive with huge wings set, impossibly white, passing low over the roads; mesmerizing in ground fog.
English Camp; a descent into the seclusion of huge maples, a formal garden, archaic shell middens, echoing geese, meditating herons. Winding trails skirt sheltered bay waters and ascend to Mt. Young’s ice-smoothed bald; a grand overview. The oak woodland contour paths are exquisite in spring; British graves reveal a lot in chiseled words and eternal silence.
A sense of personal safety in town, day or night, confidence that nearly anyone out and about will pay attention, lend a hand, make a call. Open campuses. People stand together on the courthouse lawn, peaceful marches for good causes.
Brickworks as the heart of town, especially farmers markets, the Saturday morning place to be, brushing elbows, so casual on warm days, toe-tapping music, fragrant foods, many artisans, delighted kids.
The County fair is the pinnacle of a perfect island summer; unusually good food, modeling recycling, scores of events where rural character, pride in accomplishment, broad participation and family fun seamlessly coalesce.
The memorial benches downtown, inviting pause, conversations with passing friends, feeding crows, a motion picture of the way we are, in a place we want to be.
Celebrate our blessings and one another. Pass it on in 2025.
