Page 31 of Kissing the Beach Town Fire Chief
“Folks did any of you know that the large dolphin statue at the beach was carved by an artist here in 1910? Yes! And how many of you have walked the stairs of the old lighthouse?” After a show of hands from over two thirds of the group he goes on. “That intricate handrail along the parapet was carved and installed by a George Weston who lived here from 1902 through 1988. And guess what? All these years later his great granddaughter Mary Townsend, is sitting in the back … Hi Mary.” She smiles and waves back and Ethan continues. “Did you know that it is Mary who quietly and without fuss cleans and repaints that very handrail year after year?” There is rumbling through the crowd, with lots of people turning to wave and say hi. The group is obviously impressed, even Aunt Maggie!
“This is the type of tradition I would like to see us embrace as a community. There’s nothing tourists want to see more than a place that's brimming with history and old traditions. And along with that, having people open businesses based on their own talents is going to make it easier for them to earn – both owner and artist. The whole point of this is to give everyone as many opportunities as possible. And as for your question about bringing back the old ways. I believe in following traditions, Ami.
“Friends, this town was built and adorned by generations of artists. It was forged from their dreams—a place where connection and creativity would always have a home.
Maybe not everyone here today paints or sculpts, but many of you carry your own unique artistry—skills, passions, ideas yearning to be shared. Imagine what could happen if thosetalents weren’t just admired—but nurtured, carried forward, and made into something real?
“Right now, Seabrook stands ready: a space for artistic ventures, studios, galleries, pop-up workshops, and creative storefronts that reflect your visions.
Can you see it? A bustling creative hub made by artists, for artists—where people come to learn, to explore, to feel inspired. That vision doesn't have to remain a dream.
“So, here’s my ask: If you have even the smallest spark of inspiration—consider taking the next step. Let’s open our doors to one another:
Start that studio you’ve been dreaming about.
Host workshops that share your techniques.
Launch a gallery that showcases local talent.
Invite others into your creative practice.
“Let’s choose to act—together. Get connected: share your skills, launch a creative business, or join a planning circle. Let this community revive its legacy by becoming the artistic home it was always meant to be.
“Let your creativity have a space to flourish. Be part of what comes next. This will not replace, but enhance, our daily lives and community spirit. Join us—and build this dream into reality.”
His words are so heartfelt that I feel my heart melting.
The crowd sighs, everyone feeling the emotions in his words.
The rest of the meeting goes smoothly, and people are more interested in what Ethan has to say while I sit, thinking about his words and how beautiful they sound.
Chapter sixteen
Ethan
I walked into the forum expecting a fight.
I figured there’d be at least three people ready to tear me apart before I’d even finished my first sentence. Instead? Silence. Focused eyes. Ami’s questions guiding the discussion like she’d been chairing town meetings her whole life.
By the end, folks were actually smiling. Patting my shoulder. Saying things likegood jobinstead ofgood luck with that.
Ami and I step out into the night, the air cool and sharp with the promise of fall. We walk in that easy silence that only exists when you’re exactly where you want to be.
