In surveys on BremertonPatriot.com and CentralKitsapReporter.com in 2013, a majority of respondents said they planned to do most of their holiday shopping locally or in Kitsap County.

That was good news. It made a difference to our local economy. And we hope to see it repeated this year.

“Shop local” is no mere commercial slogan. During the recession and recovery, we were reminded how important we are to each other. Money we spend here stays here. It pays local wages, puts food on local tables, pays local rents and mortgages. It’s passed on in the form of donations to nonprofits that make up our local safety net. It generates sales tax revenue, which supports public services that benefit you.

Do your holiday shopping elsewhere, and your money stays elsewhere.

Shopping local makes sense in other ways. First, you know who you’re buying from and often you’ll purchase an item that is made locally.

Second, local items are unique. Locally produced art, books and clothing reflect the wealth of creativity in our area. You’ll find local food products, as well as award-winning vintages from Kitsap wineries, in local stores. If you’re looking for eco-friendly items, Kitsap offers more than its share. Try a gift certificate to a local gallery, store, or dinner at a local restaurant.

This area is a world-class destination known for its natural beauty.

Consider a donation in a family member’s name to the Kitsap Humane Society, Central Kitsap Food Bank, Bremerton Foodline, or the Kitsap County Historical Society. There’s always the Navy Museum in Bremerton, the Kitsap Salvation Army, Kitsap Rescue Mission, or Hospice of Kitsap County.

Make the donation to the charity that means something to the recipient.

And, of course, shopping in  Central Kitsap and Bremerton comes with all the holiday cheer and lights and fun that accompany the season.

So, skip the ferries, freeways and fill-ups. There is a lot to enjoy — and share — in shopping locally. (And skip shopping out of the area online. While convenient, it doesn’t help support Kitsap businesses, unless the businesses you are shopping online are from here.)

We wish you all the best this holiday season.