When you think about your community, what makes you proud?

On Tuesday, a group of Washington residents, business owners and civic leaders waited with bated breath for the Small Business Revolution to announce the top 10 cities in its competition. While the city was successful in making it to the top 10, even if it had fallen short, the competition has accomplished something powerful already — it has gotten residents thinking about the reasons they love their town.

While Washingtonians have been expressing this hometown pride in droves on social media, there are plenty of reasons to be proud of every community in Beaufort County, and the county as a whole.

Belhaven is known for its welcoming atmosphere, its lovely shopping district and the fine restaurants that populate its streets. With a long history, the town is a scenic stop on the intercostal waterway, hence the community chamber of commerce’s motto, “the boats stop here.” Above all, the people of Belhaven are strong and resilient, as evidenced in the wake of Hurricane Florence.

In Chocowinity, a top-tier fire and rescue service ensures that area residents can rest assured in their safety. Well-equipped and well-trained, Chocowinity Fire and Rescue is always ready to respond at a moment’s notice on land or hit the water when a dangerous situation arises on the Pamlico. Likewise, the town’s commitment to youth sports is a point of pride for residents.

When visiting Bath, the sense of history is almost overwhelming. From the historic structures to the state-run visitor center, it is easy get immersed in the past. The newly-renovated Historic Bath Exhibit Hall in the old high school is a testament to this past, preserved, yet modernized and filled with interesting exhibits year round. Bonner’s Point and the beautiful public spaces only add to the town’s charm.

Aurora, tucked in the southeastern corner of the county, is a strong contributor to the overall economy of Beaufort County. Home to Nutrien, the phosphate mines of Aurora provide the county with hundreds of well-paying jobs. At the heart of town, the Aurora Fossil Museum attracts scientists and visitors from around the world. Just recently, the museum crossed the threshold of 20,000 visitors for the year, an all-time record.

In Washington Park, one finds a tight-knit sense of community. From the common ties and communal events at the town’s waterfront park, to the friendly smiles of bikers and joggers on Riverside Drive, the town offers a laid back charm that is hard to find elsewhere.

Pantego holds the claim of being the county’s smallest incorporated town. The Pantego Academy Historical Museum at the heart of town is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and holds historical treasures from the area’s past. Headquarters to Tideland EMC, Pantego is at the epicenter of providing power to more than 22,000 customers in six counties.

The list goes on … Bayview, Terra Ceia, Richland, Edward, Pinetown, Blounts Creek, Whitepost, Wilkinson, Whichard’s Beach, Old Ford, Royal, River Road … there is something unique and special to be found in each of these communities, even if it is just the people who call it home. No matter where you are in Beaufort County, there’s plenty to be proud of.