We’ve traveled (a lot) and know some places (not usually on most people’s radar) that deserve a big shiny star for making their town a better place to be (and worthy of a visitor stopping by).
Case in point: Everett, WA. (“Where?” you may well ask.) We ended up discovering Everett on a visit with old friends, Ron and Carol. When we arrived we had no particular interest in seeing the town; we were just there to visit our friends. Then Carol took us for a short walk in the neighborhood. Here’s what we saw:
Public art
A great old public library
…and a soaring new addition
Community art space
…and more public art
What’s on our list for locations worthy of a stop? We look for a place of interest – whether setting of the place (Flagstaff, AZ), historical site (Kyoto, Japan), architecture (Barcelona, Spain), or arts (Marfa, TX). We’re apt to choose a place with unique services – whether it’s independent stores and restaurants (Two Sisters, OR); a good library (Bend, OR); or museums (Washington, DC).
We take out our pencils to scratch off places not pedestrian friendly or filled with either chain restaurants or stores.
So, when we visit a place that deserves recognition (and that includes you, Everett, WA!) we’re happy to include you on our list for a shiny star of merit. Thanks to Carol and Ron for introducing us to Everett.
August 2015
simpletravelourway 
Wonderful account of how public libraries serve the mind and spirit! The Everett, WA library is indeed a gem.
Your “Voyage of Discovery” – as in Lewis and Clark – aka simpletravelourway – continues to be a delight to read and savor.
Thank you!