October 30, 2019
Astonished and mesmerized, I’ve watched the streets of Downtown Petoskey fill with throngs of people on the most random of days. Sure, on weekends and in the height of summer, we expect visitors and tourists from all around the world, but on a Tuesday afternoon in October? Or a rainy Thursday? Lately, the weather doesn’t matter nor the temperature, people continue to wander; they continue to shop and be gregarious as if Christmas or the 4th of July were around the corner.
The other day there were four people milling about, and one woman noted, “If I had my choice, I’d live in Petoskey the rest of my life.” The others agreed and strolled into a restaurant on Lake Street. Constant conversation revolves around the “beauty” of the area, the “great food”, and “everything is local!”
I believe that last note is most relevant. No doubt the surrounding landscape of fall colored hillsides, parks and neighborhoods presents a marvelous tapestry for the senses. And the local food scene is unparalleled for such a small community. But the fact that most of those eateries, shops and assorted businesses in the downtown community are locally owned and operated signals to outsiders a true love of our city. Not only are they locally owned but the owners and staff frequent the downtown area as much as our visitors, so there’s an understanding of what someone may need or request as they attempt to enjoy the venues – a true empathy for the requested entertainment. In coffee shops, business owners sit amongst travelers. Passing along sidewalks, those same owners mix with tourists as if they were one in the same.
Downtown Petoskey has the small-town charm without the frictions and vicissitudes of a larger surrounding city. Why, even the small traffic hiccups are just that, small. So, enjoy our quaintness; enjoy our personhood; and please dance among our local fare in our local neighborhoods and with our local characters. Even on a random day in October, with Halloween displays and scarecrows running amok, relax and breathe into the scene.
