Wednesday, December 18, 2024 | |
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The Greater Kitsap Chamber & Visitor Center will be closed for the holidays from December 24th through January 2nd. Both of our locations will be closed with staff having very limited (to no!) access to emails during this time. This will also be our last newsletter for 2024, so enjoy the next couple of weeks and our next issue will arrive in your inboxes on January 8th.
We wish you, your staff, your family and your friends a joyful holiday season with cheers to a New Year!
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December Luncheon Holiday Party
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
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Today's the day - don't miss out on the most fun networking lunch of the year! Enjoy networking bites from new member, Honeybee Horticulture; 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. Last year's winner, Vickie Lawrence from Pacific NW Title has thrown down the gauntlet to challengers - come dressed to see if you can steal the crown for 2024!
Online registration has now closed.
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Chamber: Off the Clock
Tuesday, January 21, 2025, 5:05 pm
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Join us for your newest opportunity to network in Kitsap County! Presented by the Greater Kitsap Chamber, this night is all for and about businesses across our region. Tickets are $20 at the door! | |
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Save-the-Date: Military Appreciation Day
Saturday, March 15, 2025
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Contact Tiffany to sign up now or to secure your sponsorship! | |
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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! | |
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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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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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Deb Krishnadasan Appointed 26th
Legislative District State Senator
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In a decisive joint vote of 7-3, the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners and the Pierce County Council announced the appointment of Deb Krishnadasan to the Washington State Senate, representing the 26th Legislative District. This transition comes following Emily Randall's recent election to the U.S. House of Representatives.
Spanning Gig Harbor, the Key Peninsula, South Kitsap, and part of Bremerton, Krishnadasan's new role is critical to maintaining robust community representation. A former Peninsula School Board president and long-time community advocate, Krishnadasan promised to bring her extensive experience in public education and community service to Olympia.
"The 26th District Senate seat plays a critical role in representing our residents in Olympia. I am honored to be part of this historic appointment opportunity and am grateful to all of the candidates who stepped forward to ensure that the voices of our communities will continue to be heard at the state level," said Robyn Denson, Pierce County councilmember for District 7, which includes Gig Harbor and the Key Peninsula.
Echoing these sentiments, Katie Walters, chair of the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners, remarked, "Senator Krishnadasan has a proven track record of bringing people together and delivering results for her community. Her ability to build coalitions and work across political lines will be instrumental as she steps into this role."
The appointment process included public comment, with several community members endorsing Krishnadasan for her leadership in passing the Peninsula School District bond in 2019, in addition to 16 years of dedicated service to the area.
Krishnadasan's priorities when the 2025 legislature convenes next month include public education, transportation infrastructure, housing, and childcare costs.
Her appointment will last until a special election is held in 2025.
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Legislative Day & Hill Climb
Wednesday, February 5, 2024
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Join the Greater Kitsap Chamber as we participate in AWB's annual Legislative Day and Hill Climb! Bring your business concerns directly to Olympia, speak to our local legislators, and learn about policies and legislation that could impact Kitsap-county businesses. Registration includes transportation to and from Olympia. | |
Prep for the 2025 Session with AWB | |
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The forecast: From labor law to energy, transportation to health care and much more, AWB’s policy experts will lay out their forecast for the 2025 legislative session on Jan. 8 during the Legislative Session Preview Webinar.
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Sign up now for the one-hour webinar beginning at 10 a.m. with AWB’s Government Affairs Team.
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Business & Professional Development Committee | |
Member Education & Training Resources | |
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SCORE: Tax Savings Strategies
for Small Businesses
Friday, December 20, 2024, 9:00 am
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This workshop focuses on the Federal tax saving strategies that work best for small businesses, which are:
- Electing S-Corporation status with the IRS.
- Maximizing the deduction for business use of the home.
- Demonstrating two ways you can compute the deduction for business use of personal vehicle.
- Providing you examples of 7 different retirement plans and showing you which one is best for you.
- Describing how to maximize the benefits of health savings accounts.
- Show you the difference between smart equipment purchases and not-so-smart ones for maximizing the tax benefit.
- Explain the difference between cash versus accrual accounting and let you know which is better for you.
Workshop Fee: FREE
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SCORE: Strategies to Identify and Reach
Your Target Customers
Tuesday, January 7, 2025, 9:00 am
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In this Marketing workshop, we start by helping you identify your target market. These are your best potential customers and knowing them helps you create a better product or service. It also makes all your promotional efforts more focused and effective.
We show you how to finalize the design of your product or service and make sure it’s right for your target market. Then we take you through how to create a value proposition that perfectly captures the unique value your product or service brings to your customers. Next you have to build your marketing message. That’s the information for your brochures, websites, and anything else you use to sell your product or service. We will also review a number of promotional methods and help you draft a promotional plan for your business.
This workshop focuses on hands-on exercises to help you create a target market, value proposition and promotion plan for your business.
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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Women-Owned Business Pitch Contest
Written pitch decks due March 7, 2025
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The 3rd Annual SCORE Women’s Pitch Contest is fast approaching, and registrations are pouring in from inspiring women entrepreneurs across Washington, Alaska, and Northern Idaho.
This is more than just a pitch competition—it’s your launchpad to success.
Here's why you should join:
✔️ Expert Training & Mentorship: Gain hands-on guidance to refine your pitch and business strategy.
✔️ Valuable Connections: Pitch to a panel of investors, business leaders, and industry experts eager to hear your ideas.
✔️ Practical Feedback: Polish your approach with expert insights to boost your chances of securing funding.
Don’t wait—spots are filling up quickly! This is your moment to turn your vision into reality.
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Business News & Resources | |
Report Your Seasonal Hires to DCS | |
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Courtesy of the Department of Social & Health Services
As you gear up for the holiday season, you may be considering hiring extra workers for a month or two. Whether you’re hiring more cashiers for your retail store, lift operators for your ski resort, or someone to tie Christmas trees to car roofs, federal and state laws require you to report your seasonal workers to the Division of Child Support within 20 days of hire.
Reporting your seasonal workers is easy!
- For the employer information: Enter your business name, address and FEIN.
- For the employee information: Enter their name, address, social security number, date of birth and date of hire. You can find most of the required information on your employee’s W-4 form.
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To complete the process online in minutes, visit Secure Access Washington (SAW) and add the DCS Online service.
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For more information on how to report new hires, visit NewHire.wa.gov.
That’s all you need to do!
Washington matches new-hire reports against child support records to locate parents in order to collect child support payments. The information is also used to reduce benefits fraud in our state.
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Questions? Contact the DCS Employer Relations Team at 800-562-0479 or via email at DCS-ERT@dshs.wa.gov
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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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2025 Business Essentials
Thursday, January 9, 2025, 11:00 am
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Nonprofit News & Resources | |
Nonprofit Fundamentals Series | |
Quality of Life Tops Bremerton Airport Survey | |
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Published in the Kitsap Sun, Dec. 13, 2024
Photo: Meegan M. Reid/Kitsap Sun
Over a month ago, the Port of Bremerton asked residents if the Bremerton National Airport should have commercial passenger or cargo service. The public weighed in with surprising numbers.
The Port launched an online survey and open house from October 28 to November 18 for residents to submit their interests, questions and concerns about the potential of their airport supporting regional commercial and cargo flights. The Port doesn’t want another SeaTac, CEO Jim Rothlin told the Kitsap Sun in October but could be interested in an airport with about five to 10 flights per day on smaller planes flying to places like San Diego, Las Vegas and Palm Springs, depending on the market.
Read the full article here.
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Resolve to Be More Connected & Involved
Apply now to serve on a county advisory group
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Bremerton Yacht Club Lighted Boat Parade
December 20 & 21, 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:
Allen Fitzpatrick's One-Man Christmas Carol
Friday, December 20, 2024, 6:30 pm
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This show is in The Source at the Admiral Theatre at 514 5th Street. All Ages. Limited bar menu for 21+.
Allen Fitzpatrick brings his acclaimed solo show to Bremerton's Admiral Theatre!
Charles Dickens’ famed novella, adapted and staged by Allen Fitzpatrick, in which he performs more than 20 roles.
Allen follows in the footsteps of Charles Dickens who, a few years after writing the novella, began public readings of it which he continued to perform until the year of his death. Allen performs 26 characters, telling the entire story in one hour.
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Clearwater Casino Presents:
Randy Linder - Creedence Clearwater Tribute
Friday, December 20, 2024, 8:30 pm
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Poker Face - Lady Gaga Tribute
Saturday, December 21, 2024, 8:30 pm
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PGT Presents: The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
Closing Weekend! Performances thru December 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
Closing Weekend! Performances thru December 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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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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