Yachats Oregon Writer Rick Schultze

Wednesday, February 24, 2010

It could be getting lighter but it’s still pretty dark.

As spring approaches it’s noticeably lighter in the early morning which is nice for those that begin their day’s early. However it’s still very dark at night and for Yachats that is really true. In a little village like Yachats the loss of several businesses and no lights emanating from the shut buildings makes it seem like a bit of a ghost town but that’s not to say there is nothing happening in Yachats, far from that, but going through the Village at night without the familiar glow from the Yachats Village Market and recently from the Landmark Restaurant and Lounge just seems odd to the residents. Of course the first Yachats causality was the Health Clinic, now an empty building with a big for rent sign adorning the front window. Then the market, and now the Landmark. Besides the loss of jobs to local workers and the variety of food stuffs, meals and entertainment offered to the locals and visitors the demise of these three has led to a massive rumor mill. Who will take over the market if anyone? Who will take over the Landmark if anyone? This is the main topic of conversation these days in Yachats. While there are several outstanding restaurants and many fine businesses operating in Yachats it’s the rumors that permeate the air. The post office, a great gathering information spot in Yachats is usually abuzz with folks asking the same questions. There is skepticism, optimism, and other schools of thought but for sure if you want something to talk about in Yachats, just ask “what’s the latest on the store or the lounge or clinic?” You’ll get answers and a variety of good ones. As of today I haven’t found one real or substantiated answer to any of those questions and I’ve asked many folks. Of course when money is involved as it is with all three I’ve mentioned no one except the financial players really know what’s going on. I suspect that at least two of the three will come back to life. The health clinic is doubtful without a tremendous financial infusion but both the market and lounge have been run successfully in the past and I predict will be again be up and running shortly with lights brightly shinning once again.In the meantime if you want to get in on the action hit the post office or the Green Salmon Coffee shop and starting asking the million dollar question. “What about?” To reach Rick Schultze email yarick@pioneer.net