What we focus on expands. It is entirely too easy to allow ourselves to be focused on events, processes and issues that are not to our liking, or are creating results we disagree with, and somewhat difficult, at times, to remember that, yes, we can choose how and where to focus our attentions and efforts.
While various media select items they feel will draw the public’s attention for their sponsors and advertisers, we can choose what we allow our attentions to dwell on. Do we really need four or more days of constant coverage of the death of a celebrity? Is that incident more important than human rights stories in Iran or U.S. soldiers losing their lives in far away places? Where are we investing our energies?
On a village/community level, are we investing our energies and resources in keeping our community vital and prosperous? When you make consumer decisions, are you choosing to support Silverdale or is it easier to make a few keystrokes on your computer? Consider something as simple as supporting farmers markets, area bookstores or other businesses in our local community. Consider doing business with real, live people; the people and faces you see on a regular basis, your neighbors and community members. Consider making your business, if not more personal, at least more personable.
Of course, there are more involved ideas like researching which major corporations are more responsible participants in our local communities — often, many of these larger businesses do not seek publicity for their additional contributions. Major corporations they might be, but many are incredibly strong community partners. Ask questions, see if they are involved in the community and ask if they support the Chamber.
Don’t forget that July brings to fruition the hard work of the Whaling Days committee. July 24-26 there are tons of events planned for the family. Have you got your team together to “bring it on” at the third annual Silverdale Shootout Aug. 8 and 9? Check out www.silverdaleshootout.com to register, volunteer or get more information.
It’s not too early to be thinking of your nominees for the Best of… Central Kitsap!
This month, the Chamber celebrates its 36th anniversary and as always you are invited to attend. We’ll be meeting July 29 on the patio of the Silverdale Beach Hotel at 11:30 a.m. for a great barbecue and a lot of fun. Our business showcase will feature a Carnival where you can try your hand at many of your favorite games. Additionally, our education committee is hosting its annual fundraiser for our scholarships. Local celebrities and just plain nice people have offered to take a pie in the face for this great event. Luminaries such as Chris Koebelin of the Silverdale Beach Hotel, Rob White, publisher of your own CK Reporter, Josh Spain from the J Spain Insurance Agency, Mike Walton from the Kitsap Public Facilities District and former Kitsap County Commissioner Patty Lent have stepped forward for the cause. Reservations are highly recommended. Call the Chamber at (360) 692-6800 to make yours.
If you want more information about what’s going on at the Chamber, you can subscribe to our weekly e-mail newsletter by sending a note to subscribe@silverdalechamber.com. Until next month, thank you for shopping in Silverdale!
Darla Murker is the executive director of the Silverdale Chamber of Commerce. She appears the third Friday of the month in the CK Reporter.
