Dear Editor: 

Leadership can come from unexpected places. If you’d like to witness it firsthand, visit Pier 1 Pizza Pub. On a Tuesday night it will be packed with the widest variety of people - white, black, brown, Asian, and every hue between. Folks with different lifestyles, preferences, persuasions, and political leanings. It seems like the only requirement to being there and having a good time is to be nice. 

I’ve been around a bit, small towns and big cities, dive bars and swanky hotels, north, south, east and west. Seen racism, sexism, bullying, and people just being jerks. People picked on for how they looked, what they wore, who they loved, and how they walked and talked. 

It’s not a common thing to be in a small-town bar where everybody is welcome, tolerated, respected, supported, even applauded. This does not just happen naturally or by accident. It takes values, morals, and backbone. Somebody has to not just say what’s right but do what’s right. 

So, how is it happening here in Boothbay Harbor? Leadership is the answer. Winter, Gigi and Earl set the standard with their behavior, and the vibe with their service and coolness. Korey knows when to stand back and let it all happen, but his support for them must be essential to making it possible. I wish I knew the names of all the kitchen pros, but they are part of the mix that makes such a terrific social cocktail. 

Thank you, Pier 1 team, one and all. I am so proud to see what you do and be among you. Thanks also for the terrific food, drinks, and service. Thanks for giving us all a place to be welcomed. Thanks for defending and supporting each of us and realizing at any time not everyone can carry the weight of the world. I will remember and try to follow your examples. 

Matt Hurley 

East Boothbay