Warmer, nicer weather is right around the corner. You can almost smell spring coming. Time to think about getting out and enjoying some of those great outdoor activities that are more frequent and available as we limp out from under winter’s grip and march steadily toward another great summer in our little corner of the Pacific Northwest.

This year, I encourage everyone to focus a little more of their attention on Bremerton. Yes, really. I said Bremerton. I encourage this for a couple of reasons. The more we get out there as a community to take advantage of existing area events and activities, the more events and activities there will be in the future for us to enjoy. Take the time this year to select a couple of opportunities to spend time enjoying Bremerton with your family. Festivals, art walks, farmers markets, boat shows and parades are just a few of the options. Many of them are right around the corner.

Support your local Bremerton business owners. In these trying economic times for us all, it is important to focus as many of our dollars as possible to our neighborhood small businesses. They need our patronage now more than ever. While we have some friends trying new things to boost revenue and increase numbers like the Mannette Saloon and Side Bar, we are losing longtime area partners and comforts like Pat’s Cookie Jar. Instead of that trip to Lowe’s for yard supplies, try the Bremerton City Nursery or Kitsap Lumber. Instead of a packed waiting line at SilverCity, how about lunch at Fritz Fry House and a nice seat outside next to the fountain? Make the choice to try your local neighborhood alternative whenever possible. You might be surprised at what you find.

As good neighbors we cannot and should not leave all of Bremerton’s revitalization and improvement in the hands of the mayor and the City Council. We can drive the improvements and growth to a certain degree by simply investing some of our time and money in the local economy. I love my town and want very much to see it prosper. Join with me and “Do Something, Bremerton!” this year. Hopefully I will see all of you around town very soon.