Yes, my friends, it is that time of year again for Merry Christmas and Happy New Year and are we glad we can count this one over. You already read the big-time chaotic stuff about elections and …
This item is available in full to subscribers.
We have recently launched a new and improved website. To continue reading, you will need to either log into your subscriber account, or purchase a new subscription.
If you had an active account on our previous website, then you have an account here. Simply reset your password to regain access to your account.
If you did not have an account on our previous website, but are a current print subscriber, click here to set up your website account.
Otherwise, click here to view your options for subscribing.
* Having trouble? Call our circulation department at 360-385-2900, or email our support.
Please log in to continue |
|
Yes, my friends, it is that time of year again for Merry Christmas and Happy New Year and are we glad we can count this one over. You already read the big-time chaotic stuff about elections and people, herewith I offer some small-time stuff.
The higher paid columnists in the world have referred to these times as being impacted by “disruptors.” My year was mostly disrupted by my back which appears to have suffered as much as Omaha Beach on D-Day. Just ask BJ as the disruptive back caused her to support all the efforts of my rehabilitation!
In a different category I submit to you that the local Jefferson Community Foundation has been a significant positive “disruptor” over the past several years. One of the more public ways the foundation has improved the quality of life here is in support of the “Give Jefferson” day of giving.
The day began 65 years ago as a collaboration between the Port Townsend Chamber of Commerce, the Port Townsend Paper Corporation, and the Leader. It became rebranded in 2018 as the “Day of Giving” which facilitated more non-profit organizations being included and facilitating their efforts to focus directly on addressing critical human needs in Jefferson County.
As you consider how you can make a positively disrupting impact on your neighbors, please take a look at the opportunity provided by the “Day of Giving” non-profit organizations right here in Jefferson County.
Keeping track of all the different organizations can be a full-time job so let’s deal with the community foundation itself. It was founded about 20 years ago by a concerned group of folks who wanted a more efficient way to support meeting the needs of local non-profits. I noted that one of the founders, Brent Shirley, passed away recently. In addition to being involved in the foundation he served on the city council as both a member and the president. Port Townsend City Manager, John Mauro, will never forget Brent disrupting much of his life over the past year. My friend Siobhan Canty reminds me that one should always “love a curmudgeon.”
For the first time, the Jefferson County Foundation network went over $1.5 million in annual grant making in 2024! Over 132 nonprofits were supported making significant impacts on the county’s most pressing needs including housing, childcare and support for working families.
The recent gala sponsored by East Jefferson Rotary was an unqualified success. A hundred folks gathered at the Old Alcohol Plant for dinner, “Paul Rogers Hi Jinks” entertainment and an opportunity to support an effort to develop job skills. East Jefferson County has employment openings and the gala was designed to fund the building of an organization that will develop the skills necessary to meet those needs.
In addition, try to find a way to support solving problems and be a disruptor.
So, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Love a curmudgeon and have a great year!