Wednesday, March 27, 2024 |
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Congress Approves Full-Year Spending Bill
Government shut-down averted once more
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Photo: Bill Clark/CQ-Roll Call via Getty Images
Congress voted Friday for a $1.2 trillion spending package to fund the government through September, narrowly averting a government shutdown. The bipartisan vote comes after months of stop-gap bills and contentious negotiations.
The House voted 286-134 to approve the bill and the Senate passed it 74-24. All members of Washington's congressional delegation voted yes, except for Democratic Rep. Pramila Jayapal and Republican Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, who both voted no.
The massive spending package funds the departments of Defense, Education, Health and Human Services, Homeland Security, Labor, State and Treasury, and other agencies. Congress passed six other annual spending bills earlier this month. Combined, the two packages set federal spending levels at $1.6 trillion for 2024.
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Today @ Kitsap Golf & Country Club:
Marketing Strategies in the Age of Robots
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Join us today as expert marketer, Maureen Jann, shares her advice on how to market your small business utilizing the technology of today. AI and ChatGPT don't have to be the enemy! Strengthen your business and your business connections at the Greater Kitsap Chamber monthly membership luncheon - you won't want to miss!
Don't forget your donations for our monthly raffle! Proceeds benefit the Greater Kitsap Chamber Foundation's scholarship programs.
This month's luncheon will be held at the Kitsap Golf & Country Club.
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Become a Sponsor Today
Join us for the 77th Annual Armed Forces Day Festival
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The Greater Kitsap Chamber is thrilled to announce that parade registration is now open for the 77th Annual Armed Forces Day Parade & Festival. Parade participants can sign up online at www.greaterkitsapchamber.com.
This is also a great opportunity for you to advertise your business or organization through a sponsorship of this long-time event. Sponsorship information can be found by clicking on the form below or here. We hope you will join us on Saturday, May 18 for a fun-filled day in Bremerton!
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RECAP: Kitsap Women's Summit
More than 100 women joined in the inaugural event
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The first annual Kitsap Women's Summit was an amazing success for the team at the Greater Kitsap Chamber and Leadership Kitsap. With more than 120 women from around Kitsap in attendance, and 7 diverse speakers from the community, the day provided an opportunity for conversation and community building across networks for those in the room. We encourage all attendees to continue sharing their stories of authenticity and tag us at #kitsapwomenssummit. Information on next year's Summit and a call for speakers will go out in early fall 2024.
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Get the Most Out of Your Member Benefits |
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According to the Harvard Business Review, 54% of job seekers considered better health, dental and vision insurance worthy of “heavy consideration” when evaluating job offers.
If you’re competing to attract and retain top talent, just making benefits available in not enough – employees need to regularly make use of their benefits and understand what is available to them.
Our partner, Business Health Trust has put together six post-enrollment strategies to help your workforce thrive – and help you keep them happy. Click the link to read:
🔗 Article Link: https://businesshealthtrust.com/news-insights/welcome-to-the-post-open-enrollment-playbook-ensuring-your-workforce-thrives/
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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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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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Safe Boats International Featured
in Global Business Magazine
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For the best players in the boat manufacturing industry, pioneering innovative solutions in an often-competitive industry steers a company into a leading spot as it navigates the right course forward.
When it comes to these kinds of operations, resourceful leadership must take the helm. Constantly staying ahead of the technological curve, incorporating sustainable practices, and diversifying product lines are also key.
To truly stay the course long-term, strategic partnerships—especially in emerging sectors that rely on boats to conduct procedures—can also open new horizons. One organization, in particular, has managed to establish all of this for itself while simultaneously fostering a workforce that is fueled by a pulse of ownership.
SAFE Boats International has carved its legacy in the picturesque landscapes of Bremerton, Washington, for over 27 years. Established in 1996, this company specializes in designing and manufacturing aluminum boats, primarily catering to military, law enforcement, and first responder agencies worldwide.
With a humble beginning, SAFE Boats now exists as an ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) that stands at the helm of a unique position within the vast seas of its industry. The company has delivered over 2600 boats deployed in approximately 70 countries—a testament to its global influence.
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2024 Microbusiness Accelerator
Cohort Announced
Matchstick Lab providing business support & education
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You're Invited: Mike's Rides for Lives
Annual Car Giveaway
Friday, March 29, 2024, 5:30 pm
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Mark your calendars, Greater Kitsap County! On March 29th, Mike's Rides for Lives, a cherished Chamber member led by the dedicated Mike Columbus, will once again be changing lives with their 3rd annual car giveaway. This incredible initiative provides a completely free car, including all taxes, licensing, and documentation fees, to a deserving member of our community facing unique challenges.
But the generosity doesn't stop there! This year, fellow Chamber member and community champion, Jennifer Bridgeford of C-1 Wealth Management Group, has stepped forward to gift the recipient a free insurance policy as well. This magnanimous act ensures the car can truly become a transformative force, removing transportation barriers and opening doors to opportunity.
Over the past two years, Mike's Rides for Lives has witnessed the profound impact a reliable car can have. Previous recipients have shared stories of regaining independence, securing employment, and accessing vital medical care – all made possible by the incredible generosity of our Chamber community.
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Apply Now for LK Signature Program
Year-long leadership program welcomes applicants for Class of 2025
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Celebrating Grocery Outlet - Bremerton
Thursday, April 11, 2024
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Photonatix Photobooth Rentals & Beyond |
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If you're looking for something special to add to your programs and events, Photonatix has just what you're looking for. "We happened upon Photonatix and chose to use them for both our annual Business Awards Gala and our annual holiday party at the Admiral Theatre in 2023," shared Chamber Events Coordinator Tiffany Diamond. "I've never encountered such a fun and engaging business who's first priority was making sure my event attendees were having a great time. We'll be sure to use them again and again!" |
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AWB Legislative Wrap-Up:
Housing & Transportation
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AWB's Morgan Irwin provides a high-level recap of the most important housing and transportation bills in the 2024 legislative session.
Transportation: The Legislature adopted a $14.6 billion transportation budget that continues funding for major road projects, but leaves the state about $1 billion short in revenue in the next biennium, Irwin explains.
Rent control: As proposed, House Bill 2114 would have capped rent increases to 5% per year, required 180 day notices for rent increase over 3%, and allowed tenants to vacate in 20 days without breaking their lease. Studies show rent control decreases housing investment and has other negative impacts.
"We were able to get that bill stopped," Irwin said, but warns. "I would anticipate seeing something like that in the future."
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Member Education & Training Resources |
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Three Basic Financial Reports
Every Business Should Have
Tuesday, April 2, 2024, 1:00 pm
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In this SBDC webinar, you will discuss the three basic financial reports that every business should have whether it is a start-up or a well-established business. This session will delve into who the typical users will be, what questions they may ask, and how you can use these reports to operate your business.
The instructor, Ann Zimmerman, is a Washington SBDC Certified Business Advisor and has over thirty years of experience in business and has worked in various industries including retail, construction services, manufacturing, healthcare, and not-for-profit.
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KCDEM Cyber Security Conference
Tuesday, May 14, 2024, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
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Business News & Resources |
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Washington, California, Quebec to Explore Linking Carbon Markets
A larger market could bring down costs passed on to consumers
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Washington, California and the Canadian province of Quebec will formally consider linking carbon credit markets, the three governments jointly announced Wednesday.
“Though Washington has formally expressed interest in joining the California-Québec carbon market, today’s joint statement is the first time that all three governments have expressed their mutual interest in forming a shared market,” a spokesperson for the Washington State Department of Ecology told The Center Square.
How it would work: If the three decide to link, carbon allowances issued by each government could be used by businesses in any of the three jurisdictions to cover their emissions. California has been operating a carbon market since 2012 and Quebec since 2013, with the two markets linked in 2014. Washington's program began in early 2023.
A larger market of carbon credits is expected to bring down prices, helping lower businesses' compliance costs and the costs passed onto consumers. AWB supports linkage as part of a series of fixes to Washington's Climate Commitment Act.
What's next: If a decision is made to move forward, the markets wouldn't be combined before 2025. These discussions continue amid a potential repeal of Washington's carbon market via this fall’s vote on Initiative 2117.
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WA State Workers' Comp Costs Soar |
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Nestled in the Pacific Northwest, Washington State faces a stark reality: it holds the dubious honor of having the highest workers' compensation benefit costs nationwide.
According to the National Academy of Social Insurance (NASI), in 2021, the average cost per covered worker reached $849.67, outpacing all other states. Despite robust wage growth, benefit costs surged by 13.0% from 2017 to 2021, a trend observed in only 12 states. While NASI's delayed report leaves critical questions unanswered regarding Washington's supplemental pension fund, recent actions by the Department of Labor & Industries reflect concerns. In 2024, average workers' compensation premium rates rose by 4.9%, albeit below the break-even rate, necessitating the use of contingency reserve funds.
These challenges underscore the imperative for strategic reforms to ensure fair and sustainable support for Washington's workforce. From legislative chambers to factory floors, the story of soaring workers' compensation costs serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between economic prosperity and the well-being of those who propel it forward.
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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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Spring Safety Suggestions |
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Accident Prevention Program
APP? Yeah you know me. Or you should anyway! Did you know you must have a written Accident Prevention Program (APP)? The top safety citation is not having this required plan. Download a free template from L&I.
OSHA 300 Summary
Is your OSHA 300 summary on display? Most businesses are required to have their OSHA log summary on display from Feb 1 - April 30, even if there are no injuries or illnesses to report.
Free and Confidential Safety Consultations
Here's the juice on safety: Become a safety superstar by signing up for a free and confidential safety consultation with the Division of Occupational Safety and Health. That’s right, confidential meaning no fines or penalties will result from issues uncovered during a consultation.
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Got a question or issue to be solved?
Call L&I's Small Business Liaisons for assistance.
Phone: 1-800-987-0145
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Nonprofit News & Resources |
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Paul Finley (at podium), vice president of enterprise development at FlexPay; and Caitlin Toynbee, deputy director of membership at Human Rights Campaign; present at DMAW's 2024 Sustainer Day. | Credit: Amanda Cole |
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5 Tips to Improve Sustainer
Acquisition & Retention
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As the number of donors continues to decline, it’s more important than ever to build a community of loyal supporters for your organization’s cause — and one of the most effective ways to do that is to encourage your donors to become sustainers.
With subscriptions spanning entertainment, fashion, food, health, pets and more, the subscription economy is redefining recurring giving, Dave Raley, founder of Imago Consulting, said at the Direct Marketing Association of Washington’s annual Sustainer Day — a full day of programming devoted to recurring giving trends and best practices across multiple sessions and roundtable discussions. However, Raley noted that recurring gifts are a program, not an offer, which is one of the biggest errors he sees nonprofits make.
“The value proposition is much more than that,” he said. “So sustainer giving is not a single gift — just continue that monthly. And that's an opportunity that organizations have to think about. What is a compelling value proposition that will get somebody to not just give that one gift but to stay with us and to not churn? Because churn is one of the biggest issues in subscriptions and it's certainly one of the biggest issues that we face as nonprofit fundraisers.”
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Central Kitsap Community Council
Wednesday, April 3, 2024, 5:00 pm
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Central Kitsap Levy: Share Your Input |
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If Central Kitsap School District’s April levy replacement measure does not pass, all levy-funded areas and items would be subject to reductions. We are surveying our staff, families, and community as part of a process to prioritize areas to continue funding. The survey is open through Wednesday, April 3. Please share your input! Take the survey at bit.ly/CKSD-Priorities.
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Meet with Your Kitsap Delegation:
State Legislators from the 23rd
Saturday, April 13, 2024, 1:00 pm
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Sunday Bus Service in Port Orchard, Silverdale and Poulsbo Starts in June
Starting on Sunday, June 16, Kitsap Transit will begin Phase 2 of its Sunday Service plan, which adds Sunday bus service in Port Orchard, Silverdale and Poulsbo.
Last month, Kitsap Transit announced that the start of Phase 2 would begin March 10. The agency was forced to pause the rollout due to uncertainty around a ballot measure that would repeal the state Climate Commitment Act. After evaluating the potential impacts of the initiative, we will move forward with Phase 2 on June 16, a week after our regularly scheduled service change.
Phase 2 will start with two main "trunk" routes: Route 8–Bethel, which will operate in South Kitsap every half-hour from 8:00 AM to 4:25 PM; and Route 332–Poulsbo/Myhre, which will operate between Poulsbo and Silverdale every hour from 8:30 AM to 4:25 PM.
Kitsap Transit will also add Sunday On-Demand service between 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM in Silverdale, Port Orchard and Poulsbo.
Passengers can schedule an on-demand ride using the Ride Pingo app anywhere within the service area (see map online at kitsaptransit.com/Sunday), or call 1-844-475-7433 to schedule a ride. Rides can be booked up to two hours in advance on Sundays.
On-Demand buses will also make a few scheduled stops in each service area. Visit kitsaptransit.com/Sunday for a full list of scheduled trips.
ACCESS service will be available within 3/4 of a mile of our fixed routes during the same hours. The Port Orchard-Bremerton ferry operates from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM on Sundays.
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Silverdale GreenDrinks @ Illuminate.Me
Wednesday, April 3, 2024, 5:24 pm
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Bremerton Creative District Seeks Creatives |
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LeadHERship Event:
Fireside Chat with Monica Guzman
Thursday, March 28, 2024, 5:30 pm
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Join Bainbridge Community Foundation for a fireside chat with Mónica Guzmán, journalist and author of the book I Never Thought of it That Way. Mónica is the Senior Fellow for Public Practice at the national cross-partisan depolarization organization Braver Angels, and in this fireside chat, she’ll share her experiences and help the audience gain tools for better understanding or even learning from people with a different or opposed worldview. |
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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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The Admiral Theatre Presents: |
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Good Co.
Friday, March 29, 2024, 7:30 pm
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Traversing Funk, Pop, Electro Swing, and everything danceable, Good Co is the soundtrack for your next dance party.
Coming straight out of the Jazz Age, Good Co is bringing a growling speakeasy sound with an added dash of the electronic funk so desperately needed in today's hectic workaday world. Brassy, flashy, and always a little sassy, Good Co is reimagining the dance music of today by taking the sound and style of the past and flipping it on its head. Get ready for a brand new sound custom made to make you feel good.
Bandleader Carey Rayburn is originally from Seabeck, WA and is a graduate of Klahowya Secondary School and the UW forming Good Co. and becoming a Northwest touring act.
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Clearwater Casino Resort:
Jump - Van Halen Tribute
Friday & Saturday, March 29 & 30, 2024, 9:00 pm
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Enjoy an evening with amazing entertainment Fridays and Saturdays in the Beach Rock Music and Sports starting at 9pm. General Admission tickets may be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com or in the Casino Gift Shop for just $15*. Gather the gang and head over for an evening of entertainment and fun. Doors open at 7pm, so come early to secure your seat for the show.
Purchase tickets online at Ticketmaster.com or in the Casino Gift Shop.
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Bremerton Community Theatre: Titanic
April 5, 2024 - May 5, 2024
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Epic and majestic, with moments of heartbreaking intimacy, Titanic captures the triumph and tragedy of the hopeful passengers on the ill-fated Ship of Dreams, including workers in the boiler room, first-class attendants, the poorest passengers who scraped together their life savings to purchase third-class tickets to America, to some of the wealthiest men of the Victorian age, including John Jacob Astor and Benjamin Guggenheim. Winner of the Tony Award for Best Musical, Best Book and Best Score in 1997.
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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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