Wednesday, September 4, 2024

Kingston-Seattle Fast Ferry Service Restored

Reduced levels of service still expected

Courtesy of Kitsap Transit

Photo: Kitsap Transit

The Kingston Fast Ferry will temporarily operate at a reduced level of service with Rich Passage 1 (RP1) or similar vessel until further notice. The primary vessels on the Kingston and Southworth routes, M/V Enetai and M/V Commander, are out of service due to a failed part in the jet propulsion system. The M/V Finest, the backup vessel for Kingston, is also out of service for repairs.

Starting Saturday, August 31, Kitsap Transit will operate most regularly scheduled Saturday sailings. The 4:25 PM sailing from Seattle and 5:20 PM sailing from Kingston will be suspended until further notice.  

Weekday service resumed Monday, Sept. 2., however the 10:45 AM weekday sailings from Seattle to Kingston are still suspended. 

Kitsap Transit is suspending these sailings because RP1 doesn't hold as much fuel as the regular ferries that operate the Kingston/Seattle route and, as a result, can't operate as many trips.  

RP1 is a 118-passenger vessel with about half of the passenger capacity of MV Finest and MV Commander. While the Kingston Fast Ferry sailings normally run with loads of less than 118 passengers, customers who are concerned about getting a seat are encouraged to get in the queue early.

Riders should note that RP1 has more restrictions on bicycles and scooters than the Finest and Commander. You can learn about these restrictions by visiting the Bicycles/Scooters section of the Bremerton Fast Ferry webpage. 

Repairs on the Enetai and the Finest are progressing ahead of schedule, and we hope to return both vessels to service in mid-September. At that time, Enetai will operate the Southworth-Seattle route, and the Solano and Finest will operate the Kingston-Seattle route.

Questions? Contact Kitsap Transit's Customer Service staff by calling 360.373.2877 or 800.501.RIDE.

Interested in elevating your business' exposure in the community? Looking to put your name on this year's Gala? Looking to bring a table-full of attendees? We have sponsorships available for all sizes of businesses across all industries that will provide a level of elevation in the Greater Kitsap business community like no other event. Interested in sponsoring or purchasing an ad in the Gala program? Contact Events Coordinator, Tiffany Diamond, to secure your sponsorship or ad space today!

Tacoma Rainiers Host Chamber Mix & Mingle

Wednesday, September 4, 2024, 4:00 pm

Are you looking to expand your business network to Gig Harbor, Tacoma and other Pierce County businesses? Join area Chambers and their members for a night of networking and baseball as the Tacoma Rainiers take on the Albuquerque Isotopes. Let us know if you plan to attend and someone from the Greater Kitsap Chamber leadership team will be happy to join you!

September Membership Luncheon

Wednesday, September 25, 2024, 11:00 am

RECAP: August Membership Luncheon

The GKC's Annual New Member Showcase was a resounding hit with our members on Wednesday last week as we offered our newest members the opportunity to table during our networking time. It was great to see so many new connections being made amongst the membership and community members looking to join the Chamber. Congratulations and a warm welcome went out to several members who attended a luncheon for the first time: TechFit Studios, Sarah Baric Real Estate, Tidelands Magazine, Pierside Productions & Promotions, and Empire Fire Protection. We were also thrilled to honor our August Members of the Month - West Sound Youth for Christ.

RECAP: GKC's Bremerton Visitor Center

Open House & Ribbon Cutting

Many thanks to our members and community who joined us last week as we celebrated our new GKC Visitor Center Bremerton location at 705 Pacific Ave in Downtown Bremerton. Special thanks to Mayor Greg Wheeler for officially cutting the ribbon, and to Nothing Bundt Cakes for donating the desserts!

Please come visit us the next time you are in Downtown!

Chamber launches new benefit in partnership with Crunch Fitness!

We are so excited to announce this new wellness opportunity for our business community: beginning August 2024, members of the Greater Kitsap Chamber and their employees can now enjoy discounted gym memberships at Crunch Fitness in Silverdale. For more information on how to redeem this benefit, contact Irene at the Chamber. Special thanks to General Manager, Haaken Larsen, for bringing this opportunity to our membership!

Exciting news for all Greater Kitsap Chamber members!

We're thrilled to announce that our partner, Business Health Trust (BHT) is now offering discounted pet insurance through PetPartners to all our valued members! 🐾🐶🐱

You don’t need to have a medical plan with BHT to take advantage of this great benefit. Sign up today and ensure the health and well-being of your furry family members while reducing costly veterinary bills. Plans feature comprehensive coverage for accidents, illnesses and injuries including cancer coverage.

🔗 Download a flyer to get started: https://businesshealthtrust.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/bht-pet-insurance-flyer.pdf

This is just one of the ways you get more with BHT. Are you ready to build a better benefits package? Visit bhtquote.com to learn more and get a free quote.

Noo-Kayet Investments RFP

for Traffic Consultant Services

One of our August luncheon sponsors, Noo-Kayet Investments has recently released an RFP for traffic consultant services. If you are interested in submitting a proposal to them, please click the link below for full details.

The Noo-Kayet Investments Board of Directors is made up of both Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribal members as well as non-members. The Directors have diverse backgrounds and skill sets which allow for various view points and perspectives. The Board of Directors have the responsibility of setting the direction and strategy for Noo-Kayet Investments along with the fiduciary oversight of all Enterprises.

Halloween Bash Benefitting the US Submarine Veterans Inc. Bremerton Seeks Support

If you'd like to donate candy to this event, please bring to the

September Membership Luncheon!

Martha & Mary Receives Washington

Early-Learning Facilities Grant

Published by the South Sound Business Journal, August 27, 2024

More than $7 million in grants have been awarded to 64 early-learning providers across Washington, including a number in South Sound, according to figures released today by the Department of Commerce.

Grant recipients are listed here.

The grants will help licensed child care providers make minor renovations that improve health and safety, including projects like updated playground equipment, sanitation spaces, fencing, HVAC upgrades, and light fixtures, Commerce said in a news release.

“These grants sustain critical facilities that give parents choices to meet their family’s needs and ensure more access and availability to high-quality child care,” Commerce Director Mike Fong said in a statement. “We know that child care is a barrier to employment for families, and we can advance economic opportunity for Washington’s families by ensuring children have a place to thrive.”

Funding requests far exceeded available funds available through Commerce’s Early Learning Facilities Program, the release said, noting 179 applications requesting more than $21 million.

Because of that, Commerce and the Department of Children, Youth, and Families evaluated key project criteria such as the number of child care slots serving low-income families, the project location relative to other early-learning facilities, and projects in rural or low-income areas, among other factors, the release said.

“Investing in licensed child care providers means increased access to high-quality early-learning programs for families across the state,” DCYF Secretary Ross Hunter said in the release. “I am pleased the Department of Children, Youth, and Families and Department of Commerce continue to support and sustain access to child care, which supports school readiness, allows families to secure stable employment, bolsters local economies, and makes communities stronger.”

There is no additional minor renovations funding available, Commerce said, adding it can only be made available again if the Legislature appropriates it.

Member Businesses Looking to Partner and Expand with Meal Program

We are excited to introduce Fit By Fork, a new meal prepping service designed to make

nutritious eating easier and more convenient for you. Running parallel with the nutritional

experience from Brett Clark at BC Fitness Studio and the culinary expertise of Sam Spiva from Spiva Cooking, Fit By Fork is all about making healthy, macronutrient dense, delicious meals accessible to everyone, for at home, at work, or on the go busy professionals.

To ensure we provide the best possible service, we're conducting some market research and would greatly appreciate your input. Your feedback will help us fine-tune our offerings, including pricing and meal options, to better meet the needs of our community.

Please take a few moments to fill out our brief survey. Your insights are invaluable, and as a thank you, all participants will be entered into a drawing to win a Fit By Fork 5 Pack (5 meal entrees of your choice of either Chili Lime Chicken or Chicken Al Pastor).

Best regards,

Brett Clark & Sam Spiva

Fit By Fork

BC Fitness Studio & Spiva Cooking

Kitsap Bank Shred Events Return this Fall

OC Shops Building Grand Opening

Friday, September 13, 2024, 12:00 pm

Register Now for LK Peer Coaching

Program begins September 19th

Founded in 2012, Patriot Roofing provides top-notch exterior home improvement services to families in Puget Sound, Washington and the surrounding areas. From roof repairs and replacement to siding and gutter installations, they’re completely dedicated to you and your home.

As a family-owned-and-operated business, they approach every home remodel with the thoughtful dedication it deserves. To Patriot, your family home is never just a project or another item on their to-do list; it’s an investment deserving of respect, quality, and care.

Patriot Roofing has only been a member of the Greater Kitsap Chamber since February 2024, but have already jumped in on several projects with fellow members. After recruiting the US Submarine Veteran Inc Bremerton Base group to the Chamber, representative Mike Talpai is hosting a Halloween event to benefit the Veteran's group and enlisted the Chamber and other members to help. Always mindful of the community their business resides and works in, Michael and Patriot Roofing exemplify the strong connections you can make through your Chamber membership.

Congratulations to the entire team at Patriot Roofing who we are proud to honor as the September Member of the Month!

www.patriotroofing.biz

Advocacy Committee

Eggs & Issues Returns

Annual election forum beginning Sept 17th

Business & Professional Development Committee

SCORE: LinkedIn Marketing Essentials

Wednesday, September 4, 2024, 1:00 pm

As one of the most important B2B social media platforms, LinkedIn can help you attract more eyes on your business. The biggest advantage of LinkedIn is that it is frequented by many senior-level influencers, decision-makers, and thought leaders. If you want to grab the attention of top-level executives, then you should work on your LinkedIn marketing strategy. Unlike other social networking sites, LinkedIn offers a goldmine of opportunities for B2B marketers. You’ll be better informed about what’s going on in your industry and the industry of your ideal, favorite and most profitable clients.

What You Will Learn:

• Why LinkedIn
• LinkedIn Profile Musts
• How and Why to Create Your Company Page
• Finding LinkedIn Groups
• Making Connections
• LinkedIn Posts, Articles and Newsletters
• Content Calendar (complimentary content calendar provided to all attendees)

Workshop Fee: FREE

Vibe Presents: Your Pathway to Profit

Thursday, September 12, 2024, 11:00 am - 1:00 pm

What if you could make your business irresistible to your customers? Join us on Thursday, September 12th at Vibe Coworks for "Your Pathway to Profit: Crafting an Invincible Growth Culture" and learn how!

This workshop will arm you with strategies to attract loyal customers and exceptional talent effortlessly. Partnered with Vibe Coworks, and led by Collin Dayley, CEO of The Circle Leader, we are excited to bring you a session that promises to transform your business outlook and growth. Register today and see how your business can thrive!

Understanding & Managing Vicarious Trauma

Wednesday, September 18, 2024, 11:00 am

Business Health Trust's training program, "Understanding and Managing Vicarious Trauma," provides participants with a deep understanding of vicarious trauma, its signs and symptoms, and effective strategies for prevention and self-care. Vicarious trauma, often experienced by those in helping professions, can take a significant toll on well-being. This training equips individuals with the knowledge and tools to mitigate its impact, develop an effective action plan, and explore the "four A's" of stress management.

Cybersecurity: Business Readiness & Resiliency

Friday, September 20, 2024, 10:00 am

Washington Biz Fair Returns to Puyallup

Saturday, September 21, 2024

WHA: Employee Recruitment & Retention

Courtesy of the Washington Hospitality Association

School is back in session and you may have lost some employees. Workforce shortages continue to be one of the biggest challenges for employers, especially those in the hospitality industry. If you are now looking for new team members for your business, check out the WA Hospitality Employee Recruitment & Retention toolkit to help you find and keep fantastic employees.

Courtesy of FastCompany.com

• 4 successful leaders on the lessons they wish they learned earlier
• This dead-simple, to-do app takes minimalism to the max
• These 3 phrases are a recipe for being misunderstood. Here's what to say instead
• Yes, you should still apply for a job with a lower salary range. Here's why

Courtesy of entrepreneur.com

• AI slop is everywhere we look - here's how businesses can avoid the AI slop cycle
• Your comfort zone is a paradox - here are 5 ways to push your limits and ditch the comfort zone

Workplace Safety & Health Matters

Every employer in Washington State is required to create a written Accident Prevention Program (APP) to address the safety and health hazards found in their workplace. Many employers consider their APP as their cornerstone safety program.

Identifying hazards is the first step to creating an APP. Resources, like the Job Hazard Analysis or the Workplace Hazard Basics course, are available to help you with that task. Other tools include program templates that require customizing in order to meet requirements.

Depending on the hazards in your workplace, you may also need to create additional safety programs.

An APP will help you prevent costly workplace injuries and keep workers working.

Greater Kitsap News

Central Kitsap Community Council

Wednesday, September 4, 2024, 5:00 pm

Central Kitsap residents and business owners are invited to attend the Sept. 4 meeting of the Central Kitsap Community Council to learn about resources available to local veterans and their families. There will also be an update on activities of the CKCC Community Center Committee, which will circulate a survey to gather input. The meeting takes place from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at the Central Kitsap Fire & Rescue Headquarters, located at 5300 NW Newberry Hill Road.

Rick Becker, program coordinator of the Kitsap County Veterans Assistance Program, will share information about services offered for veterans, their families and to active-duty military who will be leaving the service soon; upcoming events such as the Veterans Stand Down Sept. 28; activities of the Kitsap County Veterans Advisory Board; and an overview of the county's Veterans Emergency Assistance program. 

The CKCC meeting will also feature community announcements and there is an opportunity for public comment.

Stay informed and engaged! All CKCC meetings are open to the public. Learn more about the council and find the meeting agenda at kcowa.us/CKCC.

Kitsap County Releases Updated Comprehensive Plan Draft

Over the last two years, Kitsap County has been working with the community, stakeholders, and local tribes on an update of its Comprehensive Plan. Through public feedback on multiple drafts, Kitsap County has released updated draft documents directing population and employment growth, promoting housing diversity, protecting environmental features, and addressing necessary infrastructure through 2044.

These revised documents were released on Friday, August 30th on the Comprehensive Plan webpage.

The main updates and initiatives proposed in these documents include:

• Significant focus on accommodating growth through increased multifamily and attached housing in new and existing urban neighborhoods.
• Promotion of dense multifamily housing in Silverdale, Kingston, and the McWilliams area, focusing growth to reduce vehicle miles traveled, improve walkability, and increase transit availability.
• Protection of rural areas with no rural rezones, and urban area expansions limited to city requests, industrial land, and improved housing diversity.
• Establishment of a climate change element to act as a foundation for future climate actions.

There are four documents providing a complete picture of planning through 2044:

• The Comprehensive Plan, which establishes goals and policies to direct future county actions.
• A Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) describing the potential impacts of future growth on the environment and potential mitigation measures.
• A Capital Facilities Plan describing necessary infrastructure such as roads, sewer, schools, fire, and water to accommodate the proposed growth.
• Development Regulations that direct how development may occur, including densities, building heights, setbacks, parking, and tree canopy requirements.

Upon release, Kitsap will hold two public workshops to discuss these drafts:

• Virtual Workshop - Sept. 10 at 6 p.m. via Zoom (link to be released on our project webpage).
• In-Person Workshop – Sept. 12 at 6 p.m. at the Kitsap County Administration Building, Commissioner Chambers, 619 Division St., Port Orchard.

Following these and other stakeholder and community meetings, the documents will be reviewed and public hearings held before the Planning Commission (September/October) and Board of County Commissioners (October/November), leading to formal adoption in December.

For more information regarding the Comprehensive Plan Update, the schedule, and other details, please email our staff or visit the project webpage.

Poulsbo Kids Day

Saturday, September 7, 2024, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm

Bikes for All

Friday, September 13, 2024

Beautify Bremerton

Saturday, September 14, 2024

Masks Still Available

Free at the Greater Kitsap Chamber & Visitor Center

The Greater Kitsap Chamber still has some supplies available if your local business is in need of KN95 masks. Pick up your supply at both GKC locations today. Available while supplies last.

RECAP: 2024 Silverdale @ Sunset

Year 3 of event sees crowd favorites joined by new acts

Many thanks to our sponsors for 2024: Kitsap County, Kitsap County Parks Department, Virginia Mason Franciscan Health - St. Michael Medical Center, Kitsap Regional Library, Floor & Decor, Kitsap County Commissioner Katie Walters and the Central Kitsap Community Council, Tara Scouten Real Estate, and Miller-Woodlawn Funeral Home!

Additional thanks and full bellies go out to KettleFish, Tessio's and NW Cold Treats for providing delicious eats for concert-goers each week!

BCT Presents: Run for Your Wife

Now thru Sept. 22, 2024

Run for Your Wife by Ray Cooney

Imagine being a London cab driver with a life so compartmentalized that you've got two wives, two homes, and a schedule tighter than a drum. That's the life of John Smith, our protagonist who's been doubling down on matrimonial bliss without a hitch. That is until an incident sends him to hospital and his double life starts to unravel faster than a ball of yarn in a cat cafe. Cue the chaos as John, with the 'help' of his upstairs neighbor, tries to keep the wool over everyone's eyes. It's a whirlwind of close calls and mistaken identities that'll have you wondering if bigamy is just twice the trouble or double the fun.

Content Advisory: Adult situations, some humor based on outdated standards and mores. Features humorous and sometimes suggestive dialogue, but no strong or offensive language; deals with themes of bigamy, deception, and mistaken identity, all presented in a comedic and farcical manner; primarily situational and physical humor, with elements of slapstick and farce; mature themes related to bigamy and infidelity, handled with a light-hearted and comedic touch; comedic accidents and physical humor; some suggestive situations and innuendos—nothing explicit.

Clearwater Casino Resort:

Hair Nation - 80s Rock Hits

Friday, September 6, 2024, 8:30 pm

Good Times Roll - The Cars Tribute

Saturday, September 7, 2024, 8:30 pm

Live at the Roxy: Cash'd Out

Sunday, September 8, 2024, 7:00 pm

“Some people are impressionists. These guys leave an impression”. Says Bill Miller, owner of Johnny Cash.com about Cash’d Out, a San Diego-based band that channels Johnny Cash in about as close a manner to the real thing as it gets.

After thirteen years, of traveling hundreds of thousands of miles on the road and winning over as many fans, fans who still continually tell the group how grateful they are that Cash’d Out so righteously carries the torch of the Johnny Cash Show.

The band’s live shows respectfully reference the late, great Man in Black's Sun Records and early Columbia-era sound, combined with the energy of the classic multi-platinum live recordings from Folsom Prison and San Quentin. The group's genuine love (and authentic recreation) of Johnny Cash’s music and its universal appeal to fans of all ages and virtually all musical genres make each Cash’d Out show a must-see event!

Tiffany Diamond

Events Coordinator

tiffany@greaterkitsapchamber.com