Wednesday, December 13, 2023 |
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Olympic College Partners with Kitsap County and Virginia Mason Franciscan Health
Collaboration of GKC members results in win for community
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With generous contributions of $6 million of American Recovery Plan Act funding from Kitsap County Commissioners and $2.5 million from VMFH, the first phase will include the launch of new health science programs to fill critical health care roles in the region. The programs include dental assisting, dental hygiene, emergency medical technician, paramedic, practical nursing for Navy Corpsman, phlebotomy, radiology technician, respiratory technician, surgical technician and ultrasound technician.
The first phase, which is slated to take about two years to complete, will create opportunities for more than 80 new students each year.
The expansion in Poulsbo will complement Olympic College’s robust health sciences program at its Bremerton campus, which currently accepts more than 300 students each year in its nursing, medical assisting and physical therapy programs.
“We could not be more grateful to our partners, the Kitsap County Commissioners and Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, for their support of this desperately needed expansion of health care opportunities,” Olympic College President, Marty Cavalluzzi said. “This is just the start of a two-phased project that will significantly increase the number of highly skilled workers joining the workforce each year.”
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Bremerton GreenDrinks @ Minder Meats
Thursday, December 14, 2023, 5:00 pm
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Grab those goggles, onesie ski suits, and bundle up - Bremerton GreenDrinks is excited to join Minder Meats in celebration of their 80th Anniversary because we're having a party!! This is our year-end celebration for all of the nonprofits we've successfully amplified, all of the bridges you've helped us build, and for all of the collaboration you've helped us achieve.
This IS a costume party, but you don't have to dress up. DO dress warmly and expect a full spread of delicious food supplied by Minder Meats!
On Thursday, December 14th, 5-7:30pm, GreenDrinks will showcase Docluvthekids, a 501c3 nonprofit which provides activities, programs, community support for at risk youth, and also supplies the less fortunate with essential needs such as water, food, clothing, and hygiene products.
So get ready to MIX, ENGAGE, REPEAT. But don't forget to bring those business cards and don't forget your glass (we want to be green). This is a 21-and-over event, where we welcome everyone to meet new people and make new connections in Bremerton.
Get your tickets now. Space is limited!
Greendrinks is a monthly, social networking event for community leaders, concerned citizens, elected officials, business professionals and anyone who wants to make Bremerton a thriving, sustainable community. This event is for adults only (age 21 and older). $10 helps to offset the costs of food and drink.
Advance tickets are available at eventbrite. Tickets at the door are $20.
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December Luncheon @ Admiral Theatre
Wednesday, December 20, 2023, 11:00 am
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Make sure to register now for the Chamber's annual holiday luncheon, featuring amazing networking, our annual Ugly Sweater Contest, holiday entertainment and a visit by Ho Ho Santa! Registration is open now!
And don't forget to bring your raffle donations - proceeds benefit the Greater Kitsap Chamber Foundation's scholarship and education programs!
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Gnome on the Roam is Here
Shop local program runs Nov. 24th to Dec. 23rd
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Come find Kitsap Kelly (and some great deals) as you're out this week and coming weekend. Kitsap Kelly will be out and about in Bremerton for Krampusnacht this Friday, December 1st, so after your selfie with Krampus, be sure to get one with Kitsap Kelly! You can also find our Gnome on the Roam at these amazing locations throughout this week:
TUES/WED/THURS LOCATIONS:
Bigfoot House of Vinyl
Burwell Coffee Oasis
Fingers Duke
Spiva Cooking
Uptown Barber
THURS-MON LOCATIONS:
Eastern Wind Glass
Little Bee Home
McGavins Bakery
Moments in Bremerton
Ridgeline Brewing
Rimbert Illustration
Spread Supplies
Unique Experience
Kitsap Humane Society (Saturday & Sunday)
Macy's w/Photonatix (Saturday & Sunday)
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Host Kitsap Kelly for 3 days in your store – this option is reserved for our true retail and hospitality businesses, places that offer goods and services that people are looking to purchase during this season OR restaurants for people to patronize and/or purchase gift cards from. Kelly can visit you for Fri/Sat/Mon (they sleep on Sundays unless you are open!) or Tues/Wed/Thur. If you elect to host Kitsap Kelly for a 3-day period, we ask that you:
Offer an incentive – a gift with purchase, discount, raffle, business swag, etc. It doesn’t need to be big, but we want people to see Kelly and know that it will benefit THEM to shop at a location where Kelly is because of your amazing inventory and the incentives you might offer.
Post on your social media when you’ll be hosting Kitsap Kelly and be sure to tag #greaterkitsapchamber, #gnomeontheroam, and #findkelly. Make sure to announce when Kelly arrives. Encourage your customers daily to take selfies with Kitsap Kelly and post to their social media accounts and tag your business and one of the above hashtags for the Chamber. The lovely algorithms of Facebook and Instagram will ensure that the more you and your customers post, the further your business name will go!
OR, you can try option two! If your business doesn’t really sell a physical product but you want the community to know that you support the shop local movement, then option #2 is for you!
Take a selfie with Kitsap Kelly and share on your social media channels throughout the Shop Local/Holiday Shopping season. Let us know you’d like a selfie, and someone from the Chamber will come by with Kelly for a quick picture. If you’ve got customers around when Kelly stops in, make sure to get some pictures of Kelly with your customers. Then post, post, post on social!
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Get the Most Out of Your Member Benefits |
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Insurance done differently. Our benefits partner BHT offers quality, cost-effective medical plans plus a whole lot more, including concierge level customer service and innovative cost-saving programs and resources.
Before you renew this year, be sure to benchmark your benefits with BHT – and learn how purchasing your benefits package through an Association Health Plan can benefit you.
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Renew your membership today to ensure your benefits as a member of the Greater Kitsap Chamber! Questions about when to renew or how to upgrade your membership? Contact Irene now!
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Missed a previous edition of the Chamber's Community Connections?
View all the past issues on our website HERE.
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New Members - Welcome to the Chamber! |
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Port of Bremerton Named
WPPA Port of the Year
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Each year, the Washington Public Ports Association (WPPA) selects one Port to honor as the Washington ‘Port of the Year’. This award is given to the Port which shows the greatest success in the industry as a way to motivate new innovation continuously. On December 8, 2023, WPPA announced the Port of Bremerton as this year’s recipient.
Port CEO Jim Rothlin says, “The accomplishments of the past year didn’t happen overnight, but they had the biggest spotlight as of recent. We received $15.7 Million in funding for our Port Orchard Marina breakwater, hosted US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg for a press conference, added an electric charging conduit at Bremerton National Airport, started community initiatives, and more. All of these efforts of success can be attributed directly to the dedication of the entire staff and their commitment of being accountable every day to the success of the Port. I think everyone within the Port can be proud of what we’re accomplishing, and I hope we’re making our community proud too.”
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Skookum, Skils'kin Merger Enhances Job Opportunities for People with Disabilities |
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Photo: Skookum
Bremerton's Skookum, a provider of facility management, logistics support, and manufacturing, and Spokane's Skils’kin, which creates employment opportunities for people with disabilities through federal contracting, commercial contracts, and employment programs, are planning to merge in July.
According to a release, the merger looks to unify the strengths and resources of both organizations and improve each entity's ability to create job opportunities for people with disabilities.
"This merger represents our shared commitment to maximizing our impact in the community," said Jeff Dolven, Skookum CEO, in a press statement. "By combining our resources, we will address the evolving challenges in disability employment more effectively and ensure a more comprehensive delivery of our services while adhering to our core values and missions."
Added Skils’kin CEO Brian Behler in the release, "We are enthusiastic about the potential of this merger to drive positive change in Spokane and the other communities we serve.”
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White Barn Decor hosted the first annual Greater Kitsap Chamber Holiday Open House last Friday, offering Chamber members the opportunity to shop while enjoying holiday cocktails and tasty treats. White Barn hosts a number of special events throughout the year whose tickets often sell out well in advance with waiting lists created nearly every time. Regular customers return each year from up and down the West Coast and beyond.
If your business is looking for a "think outside the box" event, consider hosting at White Barn, where your employees can enjoy some retail therapy while supporting an amazing local business.
Photos courtesy of Katie Walters, Nita Hartley, Miriam Battson and Tiffany Diamond.
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23611 NE WA-3 | Belfair, WA 98528 | (360) 277-4598
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AWB Legislative Day & Hill Climb
Wednesday, January 24, 2024
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The Greater Kitsap Chamber will be taking a delegation of Kitsap businesses to this year's annual Legislative Day & Hill Climb. Save-the-Date for January 24th for a full day in Olympia, meeting with your legislators, learning about proposed legislation and sharing your priorities. The event includes meetings throughout the day, luncheon and a reception. The cost to attend is $159. Transportation to Olympia will be provided by the Greater Kitsap Chamber.
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Member Education & Training Resources |
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SCORE: Becoming a Facebook Master
Wednesday, December 13, 2023, 1:00 pm
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Knowing how to use Facebook can change your business overnight by driving customers to your website and your business. Getting more customers will lead to more sales in this very competitive business environment. And more sales means more profits for you!!
Attendees to this workshop will learn the following key features about Facebook:
- How people see and react to content on Facebook.
- The connection between Facebook pages and profiles.
- Facebook content strategies and other best practices.
- Understand the basics of Facebook advertising
Workshop Fee: $40
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SBDC: How to Write a Business Plan
December 14, 2023, 11:00 am
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Do you want to start your own business? Are you wondering what steps you need for a successful start? Join us in this webinar to learn all about writing a business plan. Business plans are the blueprints of your business.
Whether you need a loan or plan to self-finance, business plans should be on every start-up's list to do. We will review topics included in standard business plans such as executive summary, business structure, management, marketing, and financials. You will come away from the webinar with solid ideas of how to get started on your business plan.
You will learn:
- The information needed for a solid business plan
- Why business plans are integral for a business loan
- How a business plan will serve you no matter your industry
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Military Relations Committee |
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Spring 2024: Military Appreciation Day
Booth registrations & sponsorships available now
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Contact Tiffany at the Chamber to learn more and reserve
your space or sponsorship!
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Business News & Resources |
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Shopping Small is a Big Way
to Help Your Hometown
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Guest column published in the Kitsap Sun, December 9, 2023
After a long run of strong spending, there are signs that consumers are beginning to slow down the pace of purchasing just a bit. U.S. retail sales fell 0.1% in October, the first decline since March. This is an indicator that inflation is easing — which is good news — but the timing is not ideal for small business owners who depend on holiday shopping to remain profitable.
There’s a reason why Black Friday is called Black Friday, after all.
So, as we enter into the heart of the holiday shopping season, remember that one of the best ways you can help your community is to shop local. Check out your local farmer’s market. Head downtown and visit the shops. Invest in the community you call home.
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Retail Crime is a Persistent
and Underreported Issue
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Recent discussions around retail crime, particularly shoplifting, have sparked controversy. Last week, a New York Times article suggested that the surge in shoplifting is overstated and localized to certain cities. However, this view is challenged by experts who point out significant flaws in the reporting and perception of retail crime.
Firstly, the categorization of retail theft varies widely, often labeled as shoplifting, theft, robbery, or property crime, depending on the jurisdiction and even the officer reporting the incident. This inconsistency leads to a misleading representation of the full scale of the problem. Additionally, retail theft is notoriously underreported. Law enforcement agencies, especially in large urban areas, are stretched thin, often treating retail theft as a low-priority issue. This underreporting is not confined to New York City; cities like Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Chicago contribute significantly to the problem.
The argument that retailers use theft as a scapegoat for declining sales is flawed. Retailers invest heavily in anti-theft measures, which would be counterproductive if the issue were not serious. These measures can inconvenience legitimate customers and potentially dampen sales, indicating that retailers would not undertake such steps without a genuine need.
Moreover, the impact of retail theft extends beyond the stores. It affects tax revenue, as stolen items do not contribute to sales tax. Retailers operating on narrow profit margins are forced to raise prices or sell more, affecting consumers. The closure of stores due to theft leads to loss of convenient access to goods and services, impacting local economies and communities.
The Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) emphasizes that organized retail crime is a nationwide issue, not confined to big cities or certain political landscapes. The challenge is compounded by the difficulty in tracking retail theft accurately, as law enforcement often prioritizes other crimes, leading to underreporting of shoplifting incidents.
Retailers are not only concerned about their bottom line but also the safety of their employees and customers. They are actively engaged in community partnerships to address broader societal issues contributing to retail crime, such as addiction, homelessness, and mental health.
In conclusion, dismissing retail theft as a minor or localized issue overlooks the complex, multifaceted nature of the problem. It is a significant concern that affects retailers, consumers, and communities nationwide, necessitating a more nuanced and informed approach to understanding and addressing it.
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Feeling Alone on Your Job Search?
Here's Why You May Not Be Hearing Back
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Scroll through social media, and there it is: “We’re Hiring.” It’s the same as walking down the street, where businesses have their signs in the window. Indeed is flooded with positions, too. Why, then, has your own job search come up empty so far? You’ve submitted resumes, and yet, no word.
The reasoning could vary, from simple aspects to complex, multilayered components.
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WA Proposes Ban on 'Forever Chemicals'
in Clothes, Other Products
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The state Department of Ecology has proposed bans and new reporting requirements on chemicals found in clothes, firefighting gear and cleaning products. The Seattle Times has a full story.
In a draft report to the Legislature last week, Ecology proposed safer alternatives to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances or PFAS, also known as "forever chemicals," that are used to make products stain-, water- and heat- resistant.
The report is part of the Safer Products for Washington Act, adopted in 2019. This is part of the first round of the process that completed last year. The second round is underway which will last five years.
A 60-day comment period on the draft report opened Dec. 6, with comments accepted through Jan. 12. Ecology staff will answer questions at webinars this week on Wednesday and Thursday. See details.
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Quick and interesting reads for employers, employees,
local leaders, and everyone in between!
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Nonprofit News & Resources |
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The Greater Kitsap Chamber is proud to be one of only five Chambers statewide selected to partner with the Nonprofit Association of Washington (NAWA) to bring education and resources to nonprofits in Western Washington. Stay tuned to this section of our weekly newsletter for education, resources and more for our nonprofit community.
To learn more about NAWA, please visit their website here.
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How to Sustain Nonprofits
Through Declining Donor Support
Credit: Getty Images by Morsa Images
It seems as if the world is somewhat overwhelmed. There's so much to do, and nonprofits are the leaders in supporting social causes. But, although donors can support multiple causes, there's another matter causing donors to divert their funding. As fundraisers know, a lot of money goes to donor-advised funds and impact investing funds.
Also, donor attitudes have shifted. People, including donors, aren’t averse to getting something in return for patronizing a company instead of a nonprofit. We all know about Toms, but others mix profit and social good well, including Two Blind Brothers and OneHope wines. So, how could traditional nonprofits compete with so much complexity and donor choice?
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Donations Urgently Needed
for South Kitsap Helpline
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Calling all Kitsap County residents! A flood in the basement of the South Kitsap Helpline ruined about 20,000 pounds of dry goods. This is a devastating loss, especially at this time of year. These goods are critical to Helpline's mission of feeding those experiencing food insecurity living in our community. Food or monetary contributions to help with the cost of replacing lost goods are urgently needed and are the best way to assist.
South Kitsap Helpline, located at 1012 Mitchell Ave, Port Orchard, has been "helping those in need in our South Kitsap community with food and other critical assistance since 1980." Each week the non-profit food bank serves between 50 to 80 households.
The director of this hunger relief non-profit organization shared that while monetary donations allow them to purchase at a discounted rate, those who prefer to donate food items can help by meeting current needs for dried goods including: macaroni and cheese, cereal/oatmeal, pasta, rice, and boxed pasta and rice meals that just need protein added. Peanut butter and canned meats are proteins always in high demand.
Please visit South Kitsap Helpline to learn more about their mission and work in the community to eliminate hunger in South Kitsap, and how you can help.
Donate now by visiting South Kitsap Helpline Give or donate by mail: South Kitsap Helpline 1012 Mitchell Avenue, Port Orchard WA 98366, or by phone (360) 876-4059.
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Downtown Bremerton Library Reopens
with Heating & Cooling Updates
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Photo: Kai Uyehara
The Kitsap Regional Library [reopened] its downtown Bremerton branch, also known as the Martin Luther King Jr. branch, on Monday, after a five-month closure that allowed for installation of a new air conditioning and heating system, network cabling and signage. The nearly $500,000 project allows the branch to continue providing books, resources and community, as well as a comfortable place to shelter during extreme weather.
“All of our libraries, besides our downtown Bremerton branch, have really served an essential role in our community as shelters for warming and cooling centers, depending on what time of year it is, and it's always been a challenge because our downtown branch hasn't been able to serve that need,” said Jeannie Allen, director of strategy and communications for KRL.
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Kitsap County Public Works Seeks
Feedback on ADA Barriers
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Kitsap County Public Works is in the process of developing an ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) Transition Plan to guide when and where mobility improvements need to be made. An ADA transition plan is one of the federally mandated requirements for state and local governments under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
This plan focuses on pedestrian facilities in the Public Right-of-Way including curb ramps, sidewalks, crosswalks, and signal push buttons. Through the development of this plan, Kitsap County Public Works will:
- Inventory existing pedestrian facilities
- Identify barriers and obstacles which limit accessibility
- Determine criteria for the prioritization of barrier removal
- Set a schedule for the removal of barriers.
The development of a comprehensive ADA Transition Plan requires feedback from community members just like you! Public feedback will assist the County in efforts to prioritize investments in accessibility. The public is invited to take a brief survey to provide critical feedback to County staff as recommendations and decisions are made regarding what needs fixing and how best to prioritize resources.
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Prevent Localized Flooding During Excess Rain |
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Clear storm drains and report flooding
We need your help to keep neighborhood storm drains clear! The Kitsap Peninsula is currently taking a beating with heavy rains. You can help prevent flooding by keeping storm drains clear.
Kitsap County Public Works and your local jurisdictions are working hard to keep roads clear, and residents can help reduce the chance of flooding in their neighborhood. Thank you for your patience as we respond to flooding reports.
Blocked Storm Drains - What to Do
- Monitor neighborhood storm drains. Rake away any leaves or debris blocking the drain.
- NEVER remove a storm drain lid or attempt to clean a drain located in a busy street.
- Do not wade into water when you are unsure of the depth.
To report blocked storm drains or flooding issues in your area, use the SeeClickFix app or call Kitsap1 at 360.337.5777.
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History Uncorked: Tales of Krampus
Thursday, December 14, 2023. 7:00 pm
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Bremerton Yacht Club: Lighted Boat Parade
December 15 & 16, 2023
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Old Town Hosts Lighted Boat Parade Festivities
Saturday, December 16, 2023, 7:00 pm
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Masks & COVID Testing Kits Available
Free at the Greater Kitsap Chamber & Visitor Center
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The Greater Kitsap Chamber still has some supplies available if your local business is in need of KN95 masks or COVID testing kits. Pick up your supply at both GKC locations today. Available while supplies last.
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Krampus Visits Bremerton
Visit with Krampus Bremerton throughout December
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Christmas in Big Valley
Now thru January 1, 2024
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Battle of the Bands
Thursday, December 14, 2023, 7:00 pm
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Presented by the Admiral Theatre: |
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The Midtown Men: Holiday Hits
Friday, December 15, 2023, 7:30 pm
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The Midtown Men: Holiday Hits (The Original Stars of Broadway’s Jersey Boys)
The Midtown Men, reuniting stars from the Broadway smash hit JERSEY BOYS, will ring in the Christmas season this year with their "Holiday Hits" show. This evening of songs and stories will feature iconic Yuletide classics such as "Winter Wonderland," "Let It Snow," and "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," as well as their signature renditions of the greatest rock and roll hits of the 1960s. The popular vocal group will treat their audiences to the songs of The Beatles, The Temptations, The Four Seasons, and more! Additionally, The Midtown Men will perform their holiday single, "All Alone on Christmas," which they recorded with Stevie Van Zandt and members of Bruce Springsteen's The E Street Band. Come celebrate "the most wonderful time of the year" with these seasoned Broadway veterans!
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NYE at the Roxy: Spike & the Impalers
Sunday, December 31, 2023
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Stay in the know with what's happening for events
in Central Kitsap by checking out and liking the
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Have something to share? CLICK HERE to submit stories and
events for our weekly Community Connections!
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David Emmons
President/CEO
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Irene Moyer
VP, Membership & Strategic Communications
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Tiffany Diamond
Events Coordinator
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Bremerton Office (360) 479-3579 | 4th & Pacific Downtown Bremerton
Silverdale Office (360) 692-6800 | Kitsap Mall next to Macy's
PO Box 1218 Silverdale WA 98383
If you need assistance, please contact us directly.
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