Keep business local

I was just made aware that the Blue Hawk Booster Club board is in the process of deciding to go with a corporate vendor company for the shirts, sweatshirts, hats, etc., they sell at the Blue Hawk games. I am a bit disgusted with this decision.

This is a group that I will admit works hard on projects related to our kids and their sports. However, the majority of the money that is raised to support those projects comes from home town, home-grown people supporting the school and the community (through a pandemic no less), yet the booster club does not do the same. Several of the board members and advisors have decided that the community’s money is better spent with corporate entities who have absolutely no regard for this community or our students aside for the almighty dollar. By going with a corporate vendor, they have chosen not to support our hometown and our home-grown businesses.

The gentleman who owns the business that has provided the merchandise allowing us to show our school spirit and support the Booster Club projects has devoted a lot of time, energy, and expense, working tirelessly providing this group with unique designs and products that cannot be found elsewhere often giving them significant breaks in cost. This is a small business with a hard-working young man trying to support not only his family, but also the community. Could it be that the Booster Club does not really know how to make their endeavors work for them financially, without a loss, and remain loyal to our local business? It is interesting that others in the community/county not only do make it work, but have been thrilled with the product that Mr. Crowder is able to give them.

For some reason, the Athletic Director and the coaches’ opinions have led decision-making in the past. Once again, I will say, the parents, grandparents, kids are the community supporting these sports and making it possible to enjoy the talents and hard work of the kids. Lead in the right direction and give back to the community.

As an aside, I will admit that in organizations such as the Booster Club there seems to be only one or two members who are really willing to work with the rest being there to complain or not being there at all. So, separate and apart from the above, I am imploring parents to get involved, work to make positive things happen. It takes a large group. Ask anyone that has been involved before. I know, I put in many, many years.

Jodie Bittinger,

Trout Creek