I have purposely remained an observer of the attempts to support businesses in downtown Easton, but from what I observed the pandemic affected our businesses more than the tabling of the proposed Washington Street Promenade. And for now, deferring the proposed promenade concept would be a more apt description as new efforts, carefully vetted and elegantly executed can result in an effective long term strategy. In short, creating a safe and community oriented downtown environment where all businesses can thrive and all citizens can enjoy.
I understand the reaction of each and every vested party. I understand the pros and cons of the closure of a portion of Washington Street. What I don’t understand and what I take great exception to is of the lack of civility we have demonstrated as a community. Quite frankly, my heart is broken. We share and occupy the same space; we should have more respect for each other. This is not a proud moment.
I seek clarification of a recent letter to the Editor in the Star Democrat submitted by Mr. Durbin. Specifically his comment regarding “men of a readily identifiable ilk.” I am curious, what does this mean exactly? White men over 50? Men who have invested their time and effort into their businesses and community? Men who appreciate the quality of life we enjoy on the Eastern Shore?
I have owned a business in downtown Easton since June 1st of 2000. My restaurant has been closed since March 16th and suffered tremendously as a result of our health crisis. My success or failure was not fatally tied to whether we, as a community decided to implement together, a promenade concept. Do I think it is good idea? Absolutely! Do I think the initial iteration was a home run? No! Does that place me in the same “ilk” as the men you mentioned? I hope so, since I believe they all care deeply about the success of this community. So, I ask all who have aggressively attacked those in opposition to the Washington Street closure if they attempted a conversation in an effort to seek some understanding on their position rather than make assumptions. I ask everyone to consider the entire situation before reacting so strongly and aggressively. This applies to those for and those opposed. I think if we spent more time pursuing an understanding of each other we may have more productive solutions to our problems. If we took the time to understand each other we wouldn’t be sucked into the vortex of incivility.
I once had the great honor to be in the presence of a gentleman named John Paul Lederach, a Professor of International Peacebuilding. He has written extensively about conflict resolution. He was involved in the peace process in Somalia, Northern Ireland, Nicaragua, Columbia and Nepal. At the beginning of the semester in his conflict studies courses he asks his students to take a look around the room and identify the person with whom they are least likely to socialize. When that person is identified he suggests inviting them for a cup of coffee every week for the rest of the semester. He then asks his students to engage in that exercise the rest of their lives.
We have more in common than not; we live in a remarkable community. Let’s get to know and understand each other. When I reopen my restaurant, I would love to invite you to lunch, Mr. Durbin. My treat. Let’s discuss ideas about how we can enrich our community.
Amy Haines is the owner of Out of the Fire restaurant in Easton.
Cheryl Kramer says
Bravo, Amy Haines!!!
Gerson Martinez says
Thank you, Amy, for calling on us all to return to A place of civility and respect.
By the way, Sam and I would love to be that weekly coffee double-date with you and Richard—as there is so much that we still seek to understand and learn from you.
Best,
Gerson & Samantha Martinez