Here's a lovely first: John Willson, a poet and a bookseller at Eagle Harbor Book Company, Bainbridge Island, Wash., has been selected as a 2014 Island Treasure by the Bainbridge Island Arts & Humanities Council. The award honors "excellence in the arts and/or humanities by two individuals each year who have made outstanding contributions in those areas on the Bainbridge Island community" and comes with a $4,000 prize.
Willson has worked at the bookstore for 23 years, longer than any other employee or owner, and writes and edits the print and electronic newsletters, oversees staff picks and, with Ann Combs, runs the store's semiannual limerick contest.
His poetry has been published in many literary journals. He is a winner of the Pushcart Prize and has led a poetry workshop on the island through the Parks & Recreation District since 1991.
Eagle Harbor Book Company co-owner Morley Horder commented: "We are so fortunate to have John as a long-time member of our team. He is a passionate bookseller with decades of experience, and he's always ready to share his passion and knowledge with customers and other staff. At heart, John is a poet, and he is a master of his craft."
