We are losing friends. Friends with whom we have built valuable relationships over the years as we frequently patronize the local businesses we enjoy. We are creatures of habit. We go where we are comfortable. Where everybody knows our name, cheers to you Boston.

We choose to spend our money where those who work behind the counter know what movies we like to rent, what brand of wine we prefer to drink and what kind of toppings we like on our pizza.

Currently we are losing our Blockbuster. We have very recently lost our Papa John’s. We will miss, in the coming months, the state workers who have been the proactive front line at our local liquor stores to ensure that those who are buying alcohol are legally able to do so. State controlled stores will complete their transition to the private sector by June.

In these new economic times we will lose more friends and businesses from Bremerton this year. It is unavoidable. Several that I know of are just barely hanging on as it is. They are keeping their doors open on a week to week or even day to day basis while they struggle to pay their bills, their taxes and their staff.

If you really enjoy a local business, patronize it now. Do not wait. They may be gone before you know it.

On the upside, we will be welcoming some new friends and businesses as well. Winco is coming and it is changing the face of a major gateway into Bremerton. The redevelopment of the old West Park has been slow in coming, but is already proving to be well worth the wait if there is job creation and increased sales tax revenues for the city.