PORT TOWNSEND — Two new retail establishments have begun operating in Port Townsend, both run by proprietors who feel their business visions and the strength of their products will obviate any negative economic factors.
“I get that all the time, that it is not a good time to start a business because of the economy,” said Steve Goldenbogen, who has opened Whistle Stop Toys at 1005 Water St.
“But for me, it is the right time to do this, and I think the economy will get better.”
Jeff Dale, co-owner of Metro Bagels at 1980 Sims Way — in the space formerly occupied by Crafts Cottage — also said the timing is good because it has already proven itself among local consumers.
“We’ve been selling our bagels at several open markets and at the Wooden Boat Festival,” Dale said.
“We believe that the town will support a quality bagel shop because there is nothing else like it nearby.”
Neither store’s inventory is necessary for survival, but both operators feel there is a demand for their wares in Port Townsend.
Dale said people will buy inexpensive sandwiches and “New York-style” bagels, which are denser than the lighter, fluffier bagels offered by some stores.
“I think that some merchants are creating what they think the customer wants,” he said.
“But we use more traditional methods and make the bagels in a more authentic way.”
Goldenbogen’s inventory relies on what he calls “classic” toys, with a deliberate absence of anything that needs a computer to operate.
These classics include marbles and whoopee cushions.
“I sell a self-inflating whoopee cushion, which is an improvement over the older models,” he said.
“I don’t really want to be putting my lips on an area where other people have been sitting.”
The two new businesses are not without competitors.
Bob’s Bagels, 1029 Lawrence St., sells at outdoor markets and delivers its bagels to area homes and businesses two days a week.
Sand Castle Toys, 840 Water St., is down the street from Goldenbogen’s store.
Both merchants said they offer some unique aspects.
Metro Bagels has a storefront and will open Saturday, if all needed permits are acquired.
Dale said the store’s location, on the Thomas Street roundabout, is a better fit for the business than if it were downtown “because we get traffic from all directions and are midway between the two largest local employers: the mill and the hospital.”
He and his business partner, Mike Garling, hope to expand the business and put in more tables but first must install a restaurant that complies with federal laws regarding the disabled.
Goldenbogen prefers the downtown location for his business because it has better access to tourist traffic and the locals already know where to find him.
Neither merchant feels that he is in fierce competition with other stores, saying that Port Townsend businesses should work together to promote the town.
Goldenbogen, a technical illustrator, said he has wanted to open the store for several years “and have had my eyes on this space.”
He is in it for the long run and hopes to stay in the same location for 20 years.
Goldenbogen, whose favorite toy as a child was Legos, said kids will always appreciate a well-constructed toy that holds their attention.
“I don’t think kids have changed that much,” he said.
“They still have a sense of wonder and are overjoyed when they find exactly what they want.”
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Jefferson County Reporter Charlie Bermant can be reached at 360-385-2335 or charlie.bermant@peninsuladailynews.com.
