To the editor:

Most of my letters to the editor are rants, but today I’d like to go into Pollyanna mode to thank all those responsible for downtown Winslow.

What a great pedestrian friendly place it has become. The sidewalks are wider, the landscaping has matured, the winter lights were great, and the blue/white lighted trees in front of most stores are a nice touch. I enjoy the area of umbrella tables between Black Bird Bakery and Dana’s Showhouse.

The sidewalks that are wide enough to have outside tables in front of eateries and accommodate real sidewalk sales. I used to have to go to Europe for that kind of atmosphere and now I can enjoy it with just a walk into town.

Bainbridge Island has the best of both worlds, all the sports and cultural attractions of the big city just a ferry ride away, combined with rural living and the walkable, neighborliness of small city Winslow. And it’s just getting better. The new art museum and the Waypoint park will transform the current wire mesh gateway to Winslow from an eyesore to an inviting front door.

Thanks again to the planners, past city councils, mayors, business leaders and all those who donated to Waypoint and the art museum for making Winslow sparkle.

GARY PETTERSEN

Bainbridge Island