The opinions expressed by letter writer Craig Piette ("Time to cut bait on Smith Island," July 11) reflect a lack of knowledge of the subject matter. It also wasn't clear whether he visited Ewell or Rhodes Point during his time on Smith Island or only Tylerton. Smith Island is made up of all three communities, with Ewell having twice the full-time population of either Tylerton or Rhodes Point. There is more to Smith Island than any one community represents.
Several new businesses were started in Ewell over the past three years. And among our new residents is a family who enrolled their three children in our Pre-K through grade 7 school in 2012. There are families looking into living on Smith Island more than I would have imagined, even though that is how my family came to live in Ewell. We moved to Smith Island nine years ago, and our daughter entered second grade at Ewell School. We wanted our daughter to grow up in an environment that teaches honesty, independence and community. For those who believe "it takes a village" to raise a child, Smith Island has something to offer.
There are some who will never comprehend the allure of a place like Smith Island. Those who do will fight to keep it alive for as long as possible. It is a part of history, and still the majority of residents are ancestors of the original settlers of the islands. Their traditions are strong and passed down generation to generation.
Whether it be 20, 50 or 100 years or more, there are still good times to be enjoyed on Smith Island.
Terri Baker, Ewell