By Sarah Mackay

“Amazing” is how staff and regulars describe Travis Robinson, a 6-foot tall, conscientious and smart businessman who manages Elliot Bay Brewery.

“Definitely the biggest thing I love about living and working here is the community,” Travis says with a smile.

And the customers are enthusiastic about it too, “ If they see me at the front door, they immediately order my fish ‘n’ chips, my drink and they know me by name.  It’s like the TV show Cheers,” said one smiling satisfied customer.

Travis a.k.a Savvy Travvy (a nickname bequeathed upon him for his ability to navigate life’s turbulences) attributes his savviness to a small town, Montana upbringing complete with hair-raising mishaps leaving him thankful for his life, limbs and the community that helped raise him.

As an adult, he’s grateful for the people surrounding him in West Seattle. “It’s a neighborhood where I can go to the store and see regulars from the Brewery; a familiar face is comforting in a city of millions.” said Travis.

What’s his secret for compassion and resilience? He seeks to understand all whom he meets. “The more you open yourself up, the more compassionate you become,” said Travis.

He’s adamant about seeing things from other people’s perspective; it’s the glue for any thriving community. For Travis, Kindness is best served with resilience; it’s powerful medicine for vibrant communities and businesses.

“In the recent snow storm I had to ask regulars who live in walking distance to leave before closing so my staff could safely drive home,” Travis said.  His staff, in turn take care of him, “My Co-Manager, Luke offered me a day off recently. Having the support system is such an important part of running a good environment, I take care of my staff, they take care of me so we can all take care of the customers,” he said.

Travis is invested in his community; it’s nine years now in West Seattle, a place he loves that loves him right back.  Thank you to Savvy Travvy.