Wednesday, December 4, 2024 | |
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First Bills Drop Ahead of WA's
2025 Legislative Session
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Published in the Washington State Standard, December 2, 2024
Washington lawmakers have begun teeing up legislation ahead of the 2025 session.
Monday marked the first day they could pre-file bills. Legislators will have 105 days to push their ideas through the process after the session kicks off on Jan. 13.
There’s no guarantee a pre-filed bill will receive a hearing, the first step on the journey to getting signed into law. Committee chairs make those critical decisions about which bills get an airing and which do not. By pre-filing, lawmakers hope to get their ideas on the radar of those setting agendas for committee meetings.
Read the article here
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December Luncheon Holiday Party
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
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Register now for our annual Holiday Party Luncheon so you won't miss out on the most fun networking lunch of the year! Enjoy networking with new and continuing members alike; grab your friends for fun photos by Photonatix (your holiday gift courtesy of the Chamber!); enjoy holiday entertainment courtesy of the Bremerton High School Jazz Choir; and take a photo with Santa himself!
Don't forget your business cards for networking AND your ugliest (or most festive) holiday sweater for our annual Ugly Sweater Contest. These are always great conversation starters!
Our annual luncheon returns to the Admiral Theatre again this year, so register early to save your seat!
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Sign Up Now: Shop Local with Kitsap Kelly | |
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Looking for a Travel Escape in 2025?
Travel Abroad with the Chamber
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Contact Irene to learn more! | |
Get the Most Out of Your Member Benefits | |
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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.
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It’s time to get the most out of your insurance.
With Business Health Trust, you’ll have access to:
- More choices – more than 80 medical plans from the most respected carriers in the state
- More value – all plans come with mental health and virtual care coverage, plus innovative ancillary benefits to suit your needs
- More support – with concierge level customer service and comprehensive plan administration
- More savings – enjoy discounts on transit, IT & HR support, plus savings on dining, shopping, travel and more
- More peace of mind – we’ve got you covered!
Before you renew this year, be sure to benchmark your benefits with BHT – and see for yourself how BHT has helped over 1,000 businesses with their employee benefits.
Ready to build your benefits plan? Email quote@businesshealthtrust.com to learn more and get a free quote.
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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? Need a new membership window cling or digital badge? Contact Irene now!
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The Board of Directors for the Greater Kitsap Chamber recently voted to increase membership dues beginning in January 2025 by approximately 5%. This change reflects the rising cost of goods and additional benefits across all levels of membership that have been added since the last increase in 2022. | |
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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New & Renewing Members for November
Thank you for your continued investment & support!
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KCAR's Annual Rain Auction
Friday, December 6, 2024, 11:00 am
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Leadership Kitsap: 20 Under 40
Tickets on Sale Now for January 23rd Event
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Nestled along the beautiful shores of Dyes Inlet, Oxford Suites Silverdale offers more than just a place to stay—it provides a warm and inviting retreat for travelers. Whether you’re visiting Silverdale for business, leisure, or a bit of both, this family-owned hotel stands out as a destination that combines comfort, convenience, and a personal touch.
A Tradition of Excellence
Oxford Suites Silverdale is part of the renowned Oxford Collection, a family-run hospitality group that has been welcoming guests for over 40 years. This Silverdale location reflects the brand's commitment to superior service and an exceptional guest experience.
From its picturesque waterfront location to its elegantly appointed rooms, every detail at Oxford Suites Silverdale is designed with guest satisfaction in mind. The team takes pride in creating an atmosphere where visitors feel not just accommodated but genuinely cared for.
Modern Amenities with a Personal Touch
What sets Oxford Suites Silverdale apart is its thoughtful approach to hospitality. The hotel combines the comforts of home with the luxuries of a premier travel destination, offering an array of amenities and services to meet every need. With an emphasis on comfort, convenience, and excellent customer service, Oxford Suites Silverdale ensures a memorable stay for all guests.
A Strong Connection to the Silverdale Community
Beyond providing exceptional accommodations, Oxford Suites Silverdale plays an active role in the local community. They proudly partner with regional organizations, sponsor community events, and support local businesses, enhancing the vibrant Silverdale area.
The hotel’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring the beauty and charm of Kitsap County. From hiking scenic trails to visiting local shops and restaurants, guests can experience the best of Silverdale while staying just steps from the waterfront.
Whether you’re traveling for business, planning a family getaway, or seeking a serene waterfront escape, Oxford Suites Silverdale offers the perfect blend of comfort and luxury. Discover why so many guests choose to return year after year.
Visit www.oxfordsuitessilverdale.com or follow them on Facebook to explore their accommodations, learn more about their services, or book your stay today. Experience the warmth and hospitality that make Oxford Suites Silverdale truly stand out!
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Business & Professional Development Committee | |
Member Education & Training Resources | |
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SCORE: LinkedIn Marketing Essentials
Wednesday, December 4, 2024, 10:00 am
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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.
Workshop Fee: FREE
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SCORE: Mastering Intentional Goals
A New Year's Blueprint for Entrepreneurs
Friday, December 6, 2024, 10:00 am
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Kickstart 2025 with a powerful new approach to goal setting. This workshop helps small business owners create a comprehensive blueprint for success, emphasizing the need for intentionality and adaptability. Learn the art of setting precise, actionable goals and developing a roadmap with scalable milestones, ensuring you achieve both personal satisfaction and professional triumph in the upcoming year.
Workshop Fee: FREE
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Leadership Kitsap: Peer Coaching
Manager Peer Coaching & Executive Peer Coaching
Cohorts begin in February 2025
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Community Leader Peer Coaching Groups are cohort-based programs for the professional and personal development of leaders looking to learn and collaborate with other business executives in a safe space.
Leaders use their current work experiences, and the experiences of others in the cohort, as opportunities for growth and learning through facilitated dialog. Group members share their unique leadership challenges, gain meaningful insights, and create a system of personal accountability through the support, wisdom, and guidance of peers in leadership from across the region.
MANAGER PEER COACHING
FEBRUARY – APRIL 2025
Leadership Kitsap, in partnership with Doug Nathan Coaching & Consulting, is excited to offer an outstanding opportunity to grow your leadership skills. This opportunity is open to all leaders with management experience.
EXECUTIVE PEER COACHING
FEBRUARY – MAY 2025
Leadership Kitsap, in partnership with Doug Nathan Coaching & Consulting, is excited to offer an outstanding opportunity to grow your leadership skills. This opportunity is open to all leaders with 2+ years of CEO/Executive Director-level experience.
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Workforce Development Committee | |
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WSHRMA December Luncheon
Wednesday, December 11, 2024, 11:45 am
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The West Sound Human Resource Management Association (WSHRMA) is an affiliate of the Society for Human Resource Management. Whether you are new to the HR field or have many years of experience, we are a local starting point for networking, information, professional development and continued support of excellence in Human Resources. | |
Business News & Resources | |
WA College Enrollment Drops as Demand Increases for Skilled Workers | |
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Courtesy of the Association of Washington Business
A mismatch: Employers have long looked to Washington’s community and technical colleges to fill in-demand jobs like electricians, dental assistants and nurses. But college enrollment has not bounced back to pre-pandemic levels.
Enrollment decline: Full-time enrollment at Washington’s 33 community and technical colleges last spring was about 13% lower compared to spring 2019, and down by 22% from two years ago, the Puget Sound Business Journal reports.
Opportunities are there: There are many success stories across Washington’s community college system. Apprenticeship programs had a 91% job placement rate among the 2021-2022 cohort, with median wages of up to $51.53 per hour.
“We need to keep people and get people hooked on the idea that you can make a great living in the trades. You don’t have to go get a master’s degree or bachelor’s degree,” said Carolyn McKinnon, policy associate for workforce education at the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges.
Filling the gap: The state’s Jobs Skills Program partners with employers to upskill and train employees to fulfill existing or future needs. More than 2,800 employees and 37 companies participated this year. AWB is a longtime supporter of this program.
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Washington Workers' Compensation Premium Rate Going Up Slightly in 2025 | |
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The average cost of workers’ compensation insurance in Washington will go up about 3.8 percent in 2025, the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) announced last week.
Effective Jan. 1, employers and workers together will pay, on average, about a dollar a week more for each full-time position. Workers will pay about a quarter of the premium, similar to last year.
“This modest change helps us cover the higher cost of crucial wage and medical benefits for workers, while keeping rates steady and predictable,” L&I Director Joel Sacks said.
“This increase will help us ensure our workers’ compensation system is financially healthy and dependable for all workers and employers in our state,” he said.
The 3.8 percent increase is an average for all industries. The base rate for specific industries could be higher or lower depending on their recent claims history
Washington state requires employers and workers to pay into the workers’ compensation system to help cover the cost of providing wage and disability benefits for injured workers, as well as medical treatment of workplace injuries and illnesses.
Each fall, L&I determines workers’ compensation rates for the following year by looking closely at several factors, including the expected workers’ compensation benefits costs, size of the contingency reserve, wage and benefit inflation, operational costs, investment income, and other financial indicators.
Learn more here
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Don't Forget! File Your Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) Report by January 1, 2025 | |
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New rules under the Corporate Transparency Act require most small businesses to file a Beneficial Ownership Information report to the U.S. Treasury Department by January 1, 2025.
According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, a beneficial owner is any individual who owns or controls at least 25% of an organization, or directly or indirectly exercises substantial control in any of the following roles:
- They serve as a senior officer, such as a president, CEO, or general counsel.
- They have the authority to appoint or remove senior officers, board members, or other similar roles.
- They make important decisions concerning the company’s business, finances, and/or structure.
Failure to comply with the reporting requirements could put business owners at risk of civil penalties and imprisonment.
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Quick and interesting reads for employers, employees,
local leaders, and everyone in between!
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The Greater Kitsap Chamber is proud to serve as a resource partner with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries. Stay tuned to this section quarterly for education, resources and more from L&I. | |
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Bringing teen workers into your business can be a game-changer! Their youthful energy, enthusiasm, and eagerness to learn can boost your workplace, while giving them the chance to gain valuable experience. However, to make the most of this opportunity, employers must follow important Washington State Department of Labor and Industries guidelines. Here’s a quick overview to help you stay on track!
1. Work Permits and Parental Consent
Before you get started, Washington state requires a work permit for minors, and don’t forget to get parental consent! This step is crucial, especially for minors under 16, to ensure everyone feels confident and safe with the work environment.
2. Age Restrictions and Types of Work
When it comes to hiring teens, the types of jobs they can do depend on their age:
- 14-15 years old: These younger workers can take on safe, non-hazardous jobs like retail, office work, or food service, but keep them away from dangerous tasks like heavy machinery or construction.
- 16-17 years old: Teens in this age group can do more types of work, but they’re still restricted from hazardous roles such as roofing or operating power tools.
3. Work Hour Limitations
Teens need to balance work and school, so there are limits to how many hours they can work:
- 14-15 years old: During the school year, they can work up to 3 hours per day on school days, with a weekly maximum of 16 hours. During non-school weeks, they can work up to 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week.
- 16-17 years old: These teens can work up to 4 hours per day on school days, with a weekly maximum of 20 hours, and 8 hours per day on non-school days, capping their school-week total at 8 hours per day and 48 hours per week during non-school weeks.
Make sure to also follow federal laws like the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), which ensures that minors aren’t working during school hours or late at night, with only a few exceptions.
4. Minimum Wage and Compensation
Teens deserve to be fairly paid! In most states, this means earning at least the minimum wage. Some states have a “youth wage” for workers under 18, typically during the first 90 days of employment. In Washington State, minors under the age of 16 must be paid at least 85% of the state minimum wage.
5. Health and Safety Protections
Safety is key when hiring teens. Employers must ensure that young workers are in a healthy, secure environment. This includes adhering to L&I guidelines, giving proper safety training, and making sure teens stay away from hazardous working conditions.
Hiring teens is not only a fantastic way to support your business, but it also helps young workers build important life skills. By following L&I guidelines, securing the proper permits, and creating a safe, supportive workplace, you’re setting up both your business and your teen employees for success!
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Nonprofit News & Resources | |
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Nonprofit Legal Health Checklist Training
Tuesday, December 10, 2024, 12:00 pm
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Join us for a tour of various legal issues that can pose risks to your nonprofit organization if not handled correctly. This webinar will help nonprofit leaders understand and use our Nonprofit Legal Health Checklist to make sure their organizations are set up for success. Some of the topics covered include: state law compliance, 501(c)(3) law compliance, corporate governance requirements, fundraising, employment law issues, intellectual property, and more.
Workshop Fee: FREE
Hosted by Communities Rise
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NAWA Online Workshop: Equity in Action
Thursday, December 12, 2024, 10:00 am
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Is your nonprofit grappling with limited funding, salary compression, and/or retention issues, all while trying to maintain equity and transparency? This webinar will explore how pay transparency can serve as a roadmap for overcoming these challenges. Learn how to build equitable compensation programs that align with your values and create a sustainable future for your organization.
Workshop Fee: $35
Hosted by Common Good Vermont
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Join Us for a Celebration
Today, December 4, 2024, 2:00 pm
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Kitsap County Appoints New DCD Director
Rafe Wysham joins County after 26-year Navy career
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Rafe Wysham has been named Kitsap County’s new director of the Department of Community Development. He starts work on Monday, January 6.
Wysham joins the County after 26 years of exemplary service and leadership in the US Navy. He graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1998 where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Oceanography, graduating with Honors. He most recently served as the Executive Officer of Naval Base Kitsap, retiring from the US Navy last month.
“The Department of Community Development serves a crucial role related to the County’s housing affordability, environmental preservation, and economic development, so finding the right person was our top priority,” said Katie Walters, chair of the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners. “Rafe Wysham was the unanimous choice of all interview panels for his strong leadership skills, professional abilities, knowledge of and commitment to this area, and ability to bring a team together for a common purpose.” Wysham was selected from over 90 applications received from local, national, and international candidates after a rigorous selection process.
“We are delighted to have this exceptional executive leader join our county team,” said Torie Brazitis, County Administrator. “DCD was hit hard over the past five years by record permit volumes, the COVID-19 pandemic, and staff turnover during the Great Resignation, which made it challenging to stabilize operations. Our most critical need in this position is leadership and staff development. Rafe’s strong record of team development, customer service, stakeholder relationships, and data-driven process improvements was compelling. Our vision is that DCD will become the best workplace in the Puget Sound region for community development professionals. I’m confident Rafe will lead us there.”
“We deeply appreciate the patience of DCD staff and stakeholders as we moved through the hiring process,” said Brazitis. “Their input played a crucial role in our recruitment.”
Wysham will replace Interim Director/Fire Marshal David Lynam, who had been serving in the role since Acting DCD Director David Kinley resigned in May and DCD Director Jeff Rimack left Kitsap County in March. Interim Director David Lynam will return to his role as Fire Marshal and continue his leadership of the department’s current permit process improvement program set to launch in the first quarter of 2025.
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Central Kitsap Community Council
Wednesday, December 4, 2024, 5:00 pm
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Kitsap residents and business owners are invited to attend the Dec. 4 meeting of the Central Kitsap Community Council for a discussion focused on Kitsap County's proposed 2025 budget. Administrative Services Director Amber Dunwiddie provides an overview and there will be time for questions. The meeting takes place 5 to 6:30 p.m. at the Central Kitsap Fire & Rescue Headquarters, located at 5300 NW Newberry Hill Road.
The CKCC meeting also features committee reports on planning for a community center and focusing on the Silverdale Regional Center Subarea Plan in 2025. There are also community announcements and opportunities for public comment.
Stay informed and engaged! All CKCC are open to the public. Learn more about the council and find the meeting agenda at kcowa.us/CKCC.
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Silverdale GreenDrinks @ Kitsap Bank
Wednesday, December 4, 2024, 5:24 pm
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Holiday Fun in Historic Downtown Poulsbo
Activities for all ages all month
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Port Orchard's Holiday on the Bay
Saturday, December 7, 2024
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Kingston Christmas on the Cove
Saturday, December 7, 2024
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Suquamish Holiday Bazaar
December 7 & 8, 2024
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Port Gamble Country Christmas
December 14 & 15, 2024
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Masks Still 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. Pick up your supply at both GKC locations today. Available while supplies last.
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Can I still get COVID-19 tests?
You can order free, at-home COVID-19 tests from CovidTests.gov
Tests are available from many pharmacies and retailers. Healthcare providers can provide testing. If you test positive for COVID-19, follow CDC guidance.
If you need tests for your organization, contact Kitsap Public Health at ready@kitsappublichealth.org or 360-728-2235.
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Admiral Theatre: A Merry Rockin' Christmas
Thursday, December 5, 2024, 7:00 pm
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Girl Named Tom: The Joy of Christmas Tour
Wednesday, December 11, 2024, 7:30 pm
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PGT Presents: The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
December 6 - 22, 2024
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Come laugh with us as we present a retelling of the Christmas story, when the 6 worst kids in the neighborhood, The Herdmans, become the storytellers. | |
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BPA Presents: Anastasia
December 6 - 22, 2024
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Embark on a magical journey with Anastasia: The Musical, a sweeping adventure that takes you from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the vibrant streets of Paris in the 1920s. Inspired by the beloved film, this enchanting tale follows a brave young woman, Anya, who sets out to discover the mystery of her past.
Pursued by a ruthless Soviet officer determined to silence her, Anya joins forces with a charming conman, Dmitry, and a lovable ex-aristocrat, Vlad. Together, they embark on an epic quest to find her family and reclaim her rightful place as the lost princess Anastasia. With breathtaking songs, stunning costumes, and heartwarming moments, Anastasia is a story of love, courage, and the resilience of the human spirit.
Perfect for audiences of all ages, Anastasia is a must-see musical that will transport you to a world of romance, intrigue, and timeless beauty. Don’t miss your chance to experience this critically acclaimed show that has captivated hearts around the world. Buy your tickets now and be part of the magic!
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Clearwater Casino Presents:
Fallen Angel - Poison Tribute
Friday, December 6, 2024, 8:30 pm
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Hair Nation - 80's Rock Hits
Saturday, December 7, 2024, 8:30 pm
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Sons of Norway's Nordic Market & Julefest
Saturday, December 7, 2024
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Celebrate Nordic heritage, community spirit and holiday cheer on the shores of Liberty Bay this Saturday, December 7. Festivities start with a Nordic Market at the Poulsbo Sons of Norway, 10 am - 4 pm. Shop for gifts, then fill up on ertesuppe (pea soup), pølser (hot dogs), kjøttkaker (meatballs), vaffler (waffles) and rømmegrøt (porridge) at The Taste of Norway, 11 am to 3 pm. As dusk falls, gather at Poulsbo Waterfront Park to witness the enchanting arrival of the Lucia Bride by Viking boat, a Viking procession and a blazing bonfire featuring a Winter Solstice Proclamation. - tideland magazine
Photo: Poppy Photography, courtesy of tideland magazine
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2024 Krampusnacht Bremerton
Saturday, December 7, 2024
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New Year's Eve Live at The Roxy
Tuesday, December 31, 2024
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⭐ Celebrate New Year's Eve Live at the Roxy with HELLO, GOODBYE, a night packed with live music from local favorites like The Granny Panties, Classic "Bell-bottom" Rockers Superball, and Beatles tribute Juju Eyeball. Enjoy dual countdowns, classic tunes, and a night buzzing with energy to welcome 2025 in style!
🕺 Dance into the New Year with high-energy hits from local favorites, The Granny Panties
✨ Celebrate with dual countdowns, featuring the NYC Ball Drop and West Coast midnight
🎶 Groove to Superball’s late 60’s, 70s, to late-80s, rock classics and toast 2025 with Juju Eyeball’s Beatles tribute, the most famous catalog in music history
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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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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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