Although the growth of the new Lopez market is perhaps the more prominent piece of construction, it is not the only building slated to open this spring. Another structure continues to grow that has previously occupied a position equally central to the community as the market: the Thrift Store.

Since its inception as a non-profit in 1982, the store has had a somewhat peripatetic existence. Initially located in the water tower in central Lopez village it, then had to be moved when owner Jean Boushey was taken into care.

The store then moved to its current position in the village. this was not, however, its final resting place.

In 2005 fund raising began for the procurement of a piece of property that might be suitable for a permanent thrift store position. A year later, the land behind the market was found.

The construction therefore was a long time coming and its scheduled opening in spring much anticipated. The thrift store is one of those community institutions that touches many lives in many ways. It goes beyond merely being a place to pick up clothes or furniture.

Bill Brimmer, treasurer for the Thrift Store Board, identifies the community efforts of the organsition as four fold: Firstly it provides funding for others. It is a good source for marketable merchandise, it facilitates socialization for the volunteers and serves as a mechanism to recycle possessions throughout the island.

A multifaceted organization, therefore, and in need of a bigger space. Brimmer estimates that the current, smaller store pulls in about $100 per square foot, and thus with the increased dimensions of the new property there are hopes of increased revenue.

This, in turn, will be poured back into the store’s various community services. In its near 30 year history the store has returned $607,727.14 to the community making it, as Brimmer says, “one of the most dependable fund raising organizations on the island.” It is, in short, an investment for the community’s future.

The construction has not put a halt to the store’s services. Maria Armstrong, board member, expressed concern over community fears that the Thrift Sotre’s annual March grant program will be postponed due to construction. This is not the case. Despite the last efforts to move the thrift store one more time, it is still business as usual, the business of being a community asset.