Suse Cushing was right: Alexandra’s Smoky Bay Natural Food Store will be sorely missed when it finally closes. But the good news is it hasn’t yet. It’s still operating with fully stocked shelves and the immaculate presence it always has. Its pizzazz and charm are still there to be enjoyed by our fortunate community. And although the property is up for sale, if the community comes out in full force and supports the place — not to speak for Alexandra — but who knows how the ball may bounce.

And as long as we’re on the subject of Smoky Bay, let us not forget about another of Homer’s stalwart and most charming establishments: Barb’s Wagon Wheel. Boy, how that lady, through her lovely store, has ever so graced our community over the years.

There aren’t words enough to express and to give thanks to what these two fine people, Alexandra and Barb, have provided our community in helping to make it a community.

With all of my regards,

Tim O’Leary