Tuesday, May 17, 2022
Important News for You
Filing Week Arrives: Crowded Field Emerges for District 3 County Commissioner
Originally published in the Kitsap Sun, May 13, 2022

A crowded field is emerging in the race to represent Central Kitsap on the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners following the decision by two-term incumbent Republican Ed Wolfe to withdraw his name from contention. 

Four candidates — three Republicans and one Democrat — have already declared their intention to run to the state's Public Disclosure Commission. But it will become official starting Monday as candidates file with the Kitsap County Auditor's Office during filing week, which lasts through Friday. The position pays $146,500 per year. 

Wolfe, 75, had planned to run but said he had a change of heart. He loved the job but admitted there were frustrating aspects. That, coupled with a new grandchild, spurred him to bow out of the race. 

Chamber News
Check out and like the
UPDATE: Joint Silverdale & Bremerton Luncheon
Wednesday, May 25, 2022, 11:30 am
This month's Chamber luncheon will be held jointly with the Bremerton Chamber of Commerce at the Kitsap Conference Center! Join your business colleagues from around Central Kitsap to network and engage. This month's luncheon is sponsored by Kitsap Credit Union.

Kristal Thomas, CEO & President of Express Employment Professionals, will be our guest speaker, presenting The 6 Types of Working Genius: Productivity Tools to Avoid Burnout.

Be sure to register in advance as space is limited and drop-ins may not be accommodated!

11:30 am - 1:00 pm
Kitsap Conference Center
It's Not Too Late - Sign Up to Participate in the 75th Annual Armed Forces Day Parade
Saturday, May 21, 2022, 10:00 am
Put on your best parade outfit and celebrate Bremerton in the longest running Armed Forces Day Parade in the country. Join local military, nonprofits, service organizations and your favorite high school bands as we celebrate 75 years with our military community on Saturday, May 21st.

Parade applications are still being accepted - join us now for this long-standing tradition where we say thanks to all who have served!
Member News
Member of the Month: Jersey Mike's Subs

The Trails at Silverdale
11065 Pacific Crest Place NW
Silverdale, WA 98383
(360) 204-5181

Open 7 Days
10:00 am - 9:00 pm
PSE Encourages Public Comment
in Efforts to Expand Access to
Electric Vehicles & Charging Infrastructure
From Puget Sound Energy to Customers & Stakeholders

Puget Sound Energy has submitted a first round of tariffs aimed at expanding access to electric vehicles and charging infrastructure in our region.

The tariffs include Fleet and Commercial, Multi-Family Residential, Load Management, and Education and Outreach programs in what we collectively refer to as Phase I programs.

The Phase I programs deliver on PSE’s vision of a decarbonized transportation sector in Washington, while also supporting equitable transportation electrification for highly impacted communities, vulnerable populations, and the community-based organizations, government agencies and tribal entities serving them as outlined in the Transportation Electrification (TE) Plan that was acknowledged by the WUTC in August of 2021.

  • Our proposed Fleet & Commercial program works with fleet managers and organizations to install charging infrastructure and electrify the fleet vehicles that emit a disproportionate share of greenhouse gas emissions.
  • The Multi-Family Residential charging program—an expansion of a current PSE pilot program—uses learnings and input from highly impacted communities, vulnerable populations, and their service providers to bring EV charging to drivers living outside single-family housing.
  • The Load Management program will allow PSE to test different load management strategies to encourage EV charging during optimal times of the day and to meet the unique needs of different use cases.
  • We propose to expand our Education and Outreach activities to build participation in PSE’s EV charging programs, support load management, and continue to drive adoption of electric vehicles.

Together with our expanded Education and Outreach program, the proposed programs support our business and community goals to grow a more sustainable, equitable, resilient, and healthy clean energy economy.

When we file the tariffs, we are seeking review and approval of these programs by the WUTC, the state body that regulates PSE. To assist in this effort, we are looking for customers and stakeholders to provide letters of support. Comments from stakeholders like you will help show WUTC commissioners that there is strong demand for electric vehicle charging infrastructure, incentives, and education which our programs will address.

If you feel that you and your organization can provide a letter of support, please contact Matthew Perry, Local Government Affairs and Public Policy Manager at (425) 478-7529 or by email here.

Do you have news you'd like to share about your business or organization?
We'd love to share! Please send information to Irene at the Chamber!

Member Spotlight
Kitsap Credit Union
At Kitsap Credit Union, we believe in powering life’s opportunities. We’re deeply committed to our members’ financial wellbeing and the prosperity and quality of life in the communities where we live and serve.

As a not-for-profit, member-owned financial cooperative,
we put peoples’ needs first.

Sure, we offer all the convenient ways to access, transfer, and borrow funds, but our success is built on trust-based relationships and personalized service. There’s no “us” and “them” here. We’re all members.

Join us. You belong here.

Our Core Values
Integrity
We believe in acting with honesty, trust, and respect which are
at the forefront of our daily engagement.

Responsibility
We believe that responsibility is holding ourselves accountable
for our decisions, actions and their outcomes.

Collaboration
We believe in the power of a diverse group of people working
together to achieve a united outcome.

Authenticity
We believe in actions that demonstrate our commitment to be
transparent, dependable, and genuine in everyday activities.

The Silverdale Chamber of Commerce is proud to celebrate
Kitsap Credit Union's 35 years of membership!
9481 NW Silverdale Way
Silverdale, WA 98383
(360) 662-2000
Education Committee
Member Education & Training Resources
Getting the Most from Your Member Portal
Silverdale Chamber of Commerce members can promote business or organization events by adding them to the Chamber's event calendar. Simply log into your Chamber Master/GrowthZone account and click on the Events box illustrated below. Click ADD EVENT and submit your information - it's as easy as that!
Events submitted are reviewed and must be approved by Chamber Staff. Once approved, the event will appear on the Chamber's events calendar where hundreds of visitors access the website each month. The calendar is also searchable on the site and indexed by search engines. Submitting your events also helps the Chamber to share on other digital platforms and across social media.
Information on How to Certify Your Business
The Office of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises (OMWBE) certifies small businesses owned and controlled by minorities, women, and socially and economically disadvantaged persons. OMWBE certifies businesses to increase contracting opportunities for certified businesses with state and local governments. Certified businesses are eligible to apply for the Linked Deposit Program, and receive our monthly newsletter that includes upcoming events, resources, and opportunities to support you as a business owner. We regularly partner with the local community and business organizations to provide additional opportunities to certified businesses.
Pay Per Click Advertising
Thursday, May 19, 2022, 1:00 pm
This workshop will cover the following key aspects of advertising on Google:

  1. Introduction to Google advertising 
  2. Different types of ads 
  3. Keyword and targeting strategies.
  4. Measuring success

Presenter
This workshop is presented by Matt Cail. Matt started out in the world of message boards and web design. During five years as a Washington, D.C., consultant, he became knowledgeable about emergency communications and competition in the online video industry. He has worked in social media, search engine marketing, web design, and online advertising. Matt leads Super Charge Marketing, which is your one-stop social media firm for all of your social media marketing needs!

Workshop Fee: $35
Business News & Resources
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce invites you to join us for the next Common Grounds event spotlighting bipartisan legislating on Thursday, May 19 at 11:00am ET with special guests Rep. Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and Rep. Fred Upton (R-MI). Over a cup of coffee, we’ll dive into opportunities for consensus, legitimate policy differences, and pathways to real, bipartisan solutions on critical issues, such as the importance of civics education and community bridge-building. 
WSDOT Webinar: Moving Freight in WA State
Thursday, May 26, 2022, 3:00 pm
From the Washington Retail Association

The WSDOT is hosting 1-hour informational webinar to offer an update on freight movement in Washington. Participants will be provided the opportunity to share their comments and questions.

Washington’s freight system is made up of trucks, ships, planes, trains, delivery vehicles, and warehouses that supply us with all our material needs. The freight system affects residents, businesses, and consumers every day, from how our packages are delivered to the availability of goods, prices in stores, and jobs created. These systems can also impact our communities with increased traffic congestion, land-use planning, and greenhouse gas emissions. 

WSDOT updates its Washington State Freight System Plan (FSP) every five years. They have recently kicked off their 2022 FSP outreach and want to hear from the public and our members. In addition to the webinar scheduled this month, a draft 2022 FSP will be available for public review in Summer 2022, and the final FSP will be published by the end of 2022. Additional opportunities for public engagement will be available later this year.

Use this link to join the webinar on May 26 at 3:00 pm PST, or join by phone at +1 206-531-0324, 429830962#. Stay up-to-date on the 2022 FSP by visiting the plan webpage or signing up for email updates. For more information, email the WSDOT at [email protected]
APPLY NOW: SBA T.H.R.I.V.E. Program
Application deadline is May 31, 2022
Kitsap County News
New ORCA System Launched May 16
On Monday, ORCA launched its new website and mobile app, with improved account management tools and the ability to instantly load fares. Additionally, Kitsap County residents will have access to new ORCA vending machines for the first time!

Here's what you need to know about the new ORCA system: 

  • Your ORCA card will still work and you will not lose your existing balance (either E-purse or pass). Current ORCA card users do NOT need to get a new card.
  • When you need to add value or passes, create a new account at myORCA.com or with the myORCA mobile app and link your card. You can also buy a new card online, on the myORCA mobile app, at a vending machine, customer service office or participating retail location.
  • Existing autoloads will not renew at their next expiration date. To set up a new autoload, you will need to create an account on myORCA.com or on the myORCA app and re-enter your information. 
  • Normal fare collection resumes today on all Kitsap Transit services. 

ORCA vending machines installed around Kitsap County last month are now operational. We're aware of technical issues with a few vending machines and card readers and are working to address those issues as quickly as possible. Thank you for your patience. 

The new vending machines are located at the Bremerton Transportation Center, North Viking Transit Center, Wheaton Way Transit Center, Bainbridge Island Bike Barn, Kingston Fast Ferry Terminal and Port Orchard Ferry Terminal (see map below).

You can use the new vending machines to:

  • Purchase an ORCA card
  • Add new product (either a Kitsap Transit product or regional ORCA fare)
  • Load your E-purse value and check your balance.

To learn more about the new ORCA, visit myORCA.com.
No-Contact Advisory Due to Sewage Spill
Affected area: Dyes Inlet and Port Washington Narrows west of Evergreen Rotary Park.  

Warning signs will be posted at public access points.

No-contact advisory: A no-contact advisory is in effect through May 19. 

During a no-contact advisory, the public is advised to avoid contact with water in the affected area. The Health District recommends against swimming, wading, or types of water recreation that could cause water to be swallowed or get into the mouth, nose or eyes. People should also avoid direct skin contact if possible and immediately wash with soap and clean water if they have exposure to the water. 

For more information, visit kitsappublichealth.org/beaches.
The Kitsap Road Report is updated each week. This latest update was released on May 13, 2022.
Intermittent road closures on Bay Shore Drive NW and Washington Avenue NW for Sewer/Stormwater/Road improvement project. 

Crews are doing various maintenance activities at the locations listed below. Expect moderate delays between 5 and 10 minutes:

  • NW Apex Airport Rd entire length (MO-TU)
  • Emery Blvd NW at Emery development (WE-TH)
  • NW Country Lane entire length (TH)
  • W Sherman Heights Rd entire length (FR)

WSDOT Project Alert: Construction crews are working on the SR3 Chico Creek fish barrier removal project. Drivers traveling southbound who exit onto Chico Way NW near Bremerton will not be able to turn left toward Silverdale. All travelers will turn right towards Bremerton. This traffic change will be in place through fall 2023. For details and to sign up for WSDOT electronic updates, visit the WSDOT Project Page.
COVID-19 Updates & Resources
COVID-19 Vaccine & Testing Resources
Kitsap County Health District is now posting a regularly updated list of COVID-19 vaccine providers in Kitsap County. This list can be found here.

Community Information
Kitsap Resources: Older Americans Month
The 2022 theme of Age My Way is an opportunity to explore the many ways older adults can remain in and be involved with their communities. Click the invite above or see below for virtual presentations hosted by Kitsap County Aging and Long Term Care this month.

Information and Assistance: What’s Out there for Seniors in Kitsap County? May 17th, 1:00pm- 2:00pm
Attend by phone: 253-217-8782 
Meeting ID: 889 8374 1195 Passcode: 707671

Age My Way: Empowerment Through Better Brain Health
May 18th, 11:00am - 12:30pm
Attend by Phone: 253-217-8782 
Meeting ID: 897 3788 8558 Passcode: 592913

Aging at Home: What Should I Know?
May 24th, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Attend by Phone: 253-217-8782 
Meeting ID: 815 9851 9927 Passcode: 480060

AARP Cybersecurity Presentation
May 26th, 1:00pm - 2:30pm
Attend by Phone: 253-217-8782
Meeting ID: 880 6541 8124 Passcode: 535453

For questions or help registering, call 360-337-5700, 1-800-562-6418 or email: [email protected] and check https://www.agingkitsap.com for more information.
Silverdale Visitor Center
Day Trip from Silverdale:
Bremerton Armed Forces Day Festival
Saturday, May 21, 2022
Day Trip from Silverdale:
Poulsbo's Viking Fest
May 20-22, 2022
The Admiral Theatre Presents:
Croce Plays Croce
Friday, May 20, 2022, 7:00 pm
A.J. Croce performs Croce Plays Croce, a special night of music featuring a complete set of classics by his late father Jim Croce, some of his own tunes, and songs that influenced both him and his father. This special event features such timeless songs as “Operator,” “You Don’t Mess Around with Jim,” “Time in a Bottle,” (a song written for A.J.), “Rapid Roy (The Stock Car Boy), and “Lovers Cross”, to name a few. Classic covers may include songs by Lieber and Stoller, Bessie Smith, and other folk and roots artists.

Jim Croce was an American folk singer with a short-lived professional recording and touring career, and decades of posthumous fame as one of the greatest songwriters and artists ever. With sales surpassing 50 million records, including three #1 songs and 10 Top 10 hits, Jim Croce’s short career and long-lived legacy are well-remembered through his era-defining standards like “Operator,” Time in a Bottle,” and “Bad, Bad Leroy Brown.”
CSTOCK Presents: Little Women
Final Weekend!
Stay in the know with what's happening for events in Central Kitsap by checking out and liking Silverdale Visitor Center on Facebook!
Contact Us
Have something to share? CLICK HERE to submit stories and
events for Tuesday's Community Connections!
360-692-6800
David Emmons
President/CEO
Irene Moyer
Director of Member Relations
Joe Barboza
Operations Manager
Kate Cofer
Membership Coordinator
Brenda Kelley
Tourism Coordinator