The greatest things about 2005 are yet to come. That might seem an odd statement, given that the year is practically 11/12ths over (now there’s a percentage you don’t see every day). But we at the North Kitsap Herald know it to be true.

While it’s easy to look forward to Thanksgiving and Christmas, the best part of the holiday season for us and our good friends at the Poulsbo Noon Lions is ringing the bell as loud and as often as we can.

The Bellringer Fund got into full swing this week as officials from all three community organizations met to discuss strategy at Mitzels. The traditional meeting determined several things, the most important of which are the facts that for the second year in a row, the Bellringer’s goal will be $30,000 and that once again, the Herald will dedicate a portion of its front page each issue through the remainder of 2005 to promote this worthy cause by listing donors and twice weekly totals. It is our honor to do so.

It is also an honor to be affiliated with such a fund-raiser. All money raised through the Bellringer Fund stays in the North Kitsap community — something that’s extremely important to us here at the Herald.

Neighbors helping neighbors.

Isn’t that what community is really all about?

Once again this year, the Herald will also be doing its best to ensure that area youngsters holidays are merry and bright by becoming a local drop-off for new, unwrapped toys. The Herald Toy Box, done in cooperation with our good friends at Fishline, has given hundreds of less fortunate kids a reason to smile since its inception and we’re looking forward to our best year yet.

Happy holidays North Kitsap and thank you in advance for helping us ring the bell loud and clear.