Inviting Downtown
Dear Editor: Have you noticed downtown Sitka lately? You should – it’s quite lovely. As a longtime resident of Sitka, I don’t think I’ve ever seen it looking so inviting, friendly, and colorful. The profusion of flowers is wonderful.
I have always appreciated the local store owners who have hanging baskets and flowers on and around their shops, but this year is exceptional. In addition to the baskets and pots of flowers all over, there is that riot of color in the tiny little plot next to the Homeport Eatery, and the amazing transformation that Erin Hanson has performed on the grounds of St. Michael’s Cathedral.
When the Downtown Revitalization Committee put up all those bright and cheery baskets of yellow flowers on the city poles, it brought flowers and color to that part of the street, too. And the new city banners are colorful, fun, locally relevant and look great on the poles. And be sure to notice those great aluminum salmon sculptures in several places downtown. They are just wonderful.
On my way to work in the mornings, I frequently see the local store owners out sweeping and hosing off the sidewalks to keep them clean and litter free, and I appreciate that, and the time, money and effort involved in the baskets and pots of flowers. It all speaks of the pride we have in our community.
I just want to thank and applaud all the people involved in the downtown beautification efforts. They are truly appreciated. Thank you.
JoAnn Bailey, Sitka
