It’s easy to blame the national economic crisis as the reason for overall donations to charity being down, but inspiring people to donate is a lot more rewarding, and fun.

The Salvation Army has been ringing bells during the holiday season for many years. Wherever you see a red kettle in front of a participating business, you’ll see donors, but some donors are more inspired than others, and the reasons are not all economic.

Many people who don’t like bells are inspired by music, and holiday tunes have been a big help to the Salvation Army in Oak Harbor in years past. The increased number of singers and musicians this year at local kettle locations has helped boost donations by at least 50 percent over last year, and merchants are enthusiastic supporters because inspired donors also tend to be inspired shoppers.

The Greater Oak Harbor Chamber of Commerce has been the driving force behind Oak Harbor’s Old Fashioned Fourth of July for many years. Expanding another, even more universal holiday tradition in Oak Harbor at this time of year might provide a lift to spirits far beyond the city limits and make Oak Harbor a desirable destination to visit in the biggest shopping season of the year.

Musicians, singers, band directors, choir directors: If you have enjoyed hearing music at scattered locations this year and like the idea of carolers strolling in a pedestrian-friendly business district, among many possibilities, then contact your chamber of commerce or your favorite charity and volunteer your time and share your talent. You can help our businesses and charities make hot lemonade from a cold and dreary lemon of an economy next year.

Happy holidays!

Jim Bruner

Oak Harbor