Wednesday, January 8, 2025 | |
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Washington Laws Taking Effect in 2025
Laws impacting businesses starting in January
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Courtesy of the Association of Washington Business
Photo: Bill Lucia/Washington State Standard
Highest in the nation: Washington state’s minimum wage increased to $16.66 an hour on Jan. 1, a 38-cent increase from 2024. For workers under 16, the minimum wage is now $14.16 an hour.
- In Seattle, the minimum wage is $20.76 regardless of company size, ending an exemption that allowed smaller employers to count tips and medical benefits as part of the minimum wage.
Overtime-exempt workers: Small employers must pay overtime-exempt workers at least twice the minimum wage ($1,332.80 a week or $69,305.60 a year). Larger employers need to pay 2.5 times the minimum wage ($1,499.40 a week or $77,968.80 a year).
Paid sick leave law expansion: Washington workers can now take paid sick leave to care for roommates or other close relationships, or when their child’s school or daycare is closed due to an emergency.
Stay at Work incentives: Financial incentives for bringing injured employees back to work have nearly doubled. Employers can now receive higher reimbursements to cover returning workers’ wages, tools and equipment, training and clothing.
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2025 Business Essentials Webinar
Thursday, January 9, 2025, 11:00 am
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Start 2025 off on the right foot with all the latest updates from our small business resource partners at Washington’s Department of Labor & Industries! Join the Greater Kitsap Chamber for a live webinar as we cover essential updates and business practices for the year ahead.
Topics include:
- Minimum wage increase
- Overtime-exempt employee salary thresholds
- Non-compete clauses & rideshare driver rates
- Equal Pay & Opportunities: expanded protected categories
- Paid Sick Leave: expanded family definitions
- Business best practices and more!
This webinar is open to all businesses, regardless of Chamber membership or affiliation. We hope to see you there!
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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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January Membership Luncheon
Wednesday, January 22, 2025, 11:00 am - 1:00 pm
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Join us as we welcome 2025 and jump right into this year's legislative ssession and how it will impact local businesses and employers. Monica Blackwood of West Sound Workforce and Chair of the GKC Workforce Development Committee will share insights with us on issues that may find the floor in Olympia this session, emerging employment trends for 2025 and more! You won't want to miss this informative luncheon!
This month's luncheon will be held at the Kitsap Conference Center. Paid parking is available on the GREEN (2nd level) underneath the Conference Center.
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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! | |
Insurance Needs for You & Your Employees: Business Health Trust Has You Covered | |
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Big changes are coming to healthcare and insurance in 2025. Did you know the IRS has expanded preventative care benefits for high-deductible health plans? This includes coverage for over-the-counter contraceptives, continuous glucose monitors, and certain insulin products.
Our partner, Business Health Trust has summarized the insurance and healthcare changes impacting Washington employers and employees this year.
Click the link to read:
🔗 Article Link: https://businesshealthtrust.com/news_insights/insurance-changes-in-2025-what-you-need-to-know/
Not a BHT member? Are you ready to build a better benefits package? 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 December
Thank you for your continued investment & support!
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Community Connector Members | |
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2025 Great Give - Register Now
Annual Event is March 11, 2025
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Happy New Year, Nonprofits! We hope you are having a restful and rejuvenating holiday and are ready to click that Nonprofit Registration button below...Because your Kitsap Great Give 2025 campaign is on its way!
Registration closes for nonprofit participation at midnight on Tuesday, January 21.
Once you have completed all the requirements and submitted your registration form, the Kitsap Community Foundation team will review your organization's registration. Reviews can take up to one week, so please don't delay!
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GKC Members Enjoy Discount at Oxford Suites | |
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Book online using the promo code CHAMBER or contact
Sales Manager, Jamie Murray here.
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YMCA Offers Joining Special in January
Find Your Y at Our Silverdale & Bremerton YMCAs
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We're excited to recognize the Leadership Kitsap Foundation, members of the Chamber since 2016, as our January 2025 Members of the Month.
Leadership Kitsap, based in Bremerton, Washington, is a distinguished non-profit organization dedicated to cultivating community leaders equipped to drive positive change within Kitsap County. Established in December 1993, the foundation has been steadfast in its mission to develop informed, prepared, and engaged leaders who contribute significantly to the region's growth and cohesion.
Over the past three decades, Leadership Kitsap has evolved into a cornerstone of leadership development in the area. The organization's flagship offering, the Signature Program, is a comprehensive 10-month course designed to provide participants with the necessary background, contacts, and tools to effectively lead and inspire within the community.
Beyond the Signature Program, Leadership Kitsap offers a variety of initiatives aimed at diverse segments of the community:
- Premier Institute (LKPI): This initiative serves as a hub for supervisory, management, and executive-level leadership training. It offers workshops, seminars, and peer coaching groups tailored to the unique needs of Kitsap County's public, private, and nonprofit sectors.
- 20 Under 40 Awards: An annual event that recognizes and celebrates young professionals under the age of 40 who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and service within the community.
- Kitsap Women’s Summit: In partnership with the Greater Kitsap Chamber, KWS is a platform dedicated to empowering women leaders by providing networking opportunities, workshops, and discussions focused on leadership development and community engagement.
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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. | |
Business & Professional Development Committee | |
Member Education & Training Resources | |
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SCORE: Unlock the Power of Google Ads
Thursday, January 9, 2025, 9:00 am
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Leverage Google to put your business directly in front of people seeking your products and services. Google Ads offers fast, cost-effective solutions for businesses of all sizes. Learn about:
- Setting up a free Google My Business profile
- What Google Search Ads are and why they are valuable
- Search trends for your business
- How to budget for a campaign
- Common mistakes to avoid when running Google Ads
Workshop Fee: FREE
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SCORE: Starting a New Business in WA
January 11, 2025, 9:00 am
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This workshop will give you the following skills to take those first critical steps in starting a successful business:
- Understand the different business entities and choose the best one for your business.
- Learn how to properly license your business in Washington state.
- Select the correct insurance for your business.
- Understand the options for financing your business.
First, we review what you need to know about setting up your business with the best legal entity. Whether you choose a sole proprietorship, LLC or another entity, we will help you understand how to get the right business licenses along with understanding the state and federal taxes you need to manage.
Understanding how to protect your business and yourself with the correct business insurance is critical. You’ll learn about the various commercial insurance policies available and we’ll help you determine what’s best for you.
We’ll describe to you various financing options for your business, and then show you how to apply for the financing that makes sense for you.
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 | |
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Corporate Transparency Act:
Filing Deadline Is on Hold Again
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Courtesy of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce
On December 26, a merits panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit again halted the implementation of the Corporate Transparency Act’s (CTA) beneficial ownership reporting requirements.
Why it matters: The January filing deadline is on hold for some small businesses to file reports with the Department of the Treasury or risk fines and criminal penalties. Due to litigation developments, the Treasury Department had extended the filing deadline from January 1 to January 13.
What happened: The court's order comes three days after a ruling that had reinstated the filing deadline, reversing a decision in early December by a Texas judge to halt the requirements. Holding that the CTA is likely unconstitutional, the Texas judge issued a preliminary injunction barring the government from enforcing the CTA and its reporting requirements against anyone.
What's next: The appeal is on an expedited schedule, and oral argument will be scheduled soon. The reporting requirements will remain on hold as the court "considers the parties’ weighty substantive arguments".
What is the Corporate Transparency Act?
The CTA was enacted by Congress on January 1, 2021, as part of the National Defense Authorization Act. The CTA included significant reforms to anti-money laundering laws and is intended to help prevent and combat money laundering, terrorist financing, corruption, and tax fraud.
Under the act, small businesses in the United States need to file beneficial ownership information reports (BOIR) with the Department of the Treasury by January 1.
Failure to submit the new paperwork by the deadline puts small business owners at risk of criminal penalties, imprisonment, and fines up to $10,000.
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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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Workplace Rights Refresher:
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Whether you’re a seasoned employer or hiring for the first time, having employees brings a variety of responsibilities. Let's shine a light on some areas of frequent misunderstandings:
Overtime-Exempt Workers
- Did you know most employees in Washington are eligible for overtime pay when they work more than 40 hours in a week? This is true for seasonal workers, dairy and agricultural workers, hourly employees, and even piece rate and some salaried employees!
- To be overtime-exempt, an employee would have to meet three conditions:
- They must be paid a predetermined, fixed amount (a salary).
- That salary must meet a minimum amount (details below).
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Their job duties must meet strict requirements defined by federal and state law, which include executive, administrative, professional, computer professional, or outside sales exemptions (see Administrative Policies ES.A.9.3 to ES.A.9.7 for more info).
- Small and large businesses have different “minimum salary thresholds” this year:
- For small businesses (1-50 employees): $69,305.60 per year.
- For large businesses (51+ employees): $77,968.80 per year.
- For a person to be overtime-exempt, they would have to make this salary or more per year (relevant to employer size), and meet the job duties test mentioned above.
Employing Minors
Independent Contractors
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Planning to report someone with a 1099 does not necessarily make them an independent contractor. All your workers in Washington are entitled to workers’ compensation insurance paid by you unless they fit a strict legal exemption. There are six parts (seven for construction), and all parts of the test must be true to be an independent contractor. Some items of the test include:
- Free from your control or direction.
- They have their own business license with the Department of Revenue and other state agencies as required.
- They file a schedule of expenses with the IRS.
- For construction only: The individual is properly registered as a contractor or has a valid electrical contractor license.
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You can use the Independent Contractor Guide, the eLearning class, or call 360-902-4817 to better understand who you need to cover.
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Nonprofit News & Resources | |
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Mastering the Magic
Tuesday, January 11, 2025, 10:00 am
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Hosting a successful event isn’t just about logistics—it’s about creating an experience that resonates with your audience and strengthens your community. Join Kilbreath Events and the Kitsap Community Foundation on Tuesday, January 14, for an engaging, one-hour workshop designed to elevate your event planning skills.
In this interactive session, we’ll demystify the event planning process, offering practical strategies and creative solutions to enhance every stage of your event. From pre-event preparation to on-the-day execution, learn how thoughtful planning can transform your fundraising events into seamless, memorable experiences.
Whether you’re a seasoned planner looking to refine your approach or a beginner seeking guidance, this session will provide actionable insights and innovative ideas to help you craft events that achieve your goals and foster genuine connection and community among attendees.
Why Attend?
- Learn Proven Strategies: Gain insights into best practices for organizing events that run smoothly and leave a lasting impression.
- Enhance Your Impact: Discover how to turn routine logistics into opportunities to foster connection and community.
- Elevate Every Detail: From timelines to guest experience, explore creative approaches that make your events stand out.
- Network with Experts and Peers: Collaborate and share ideas with other nonprofit professionals and event planners.
- Walk Away Inspired: Leave with actionable tools and renewed confidence to plan events that align with your mission and inspire generosity.
Whether planning a small gathering or a large fundraiser, this session will provide the resources and confidence to make your next event truly magical.
Seats are limited, and registration is free - so act now!
Join us at Kitsap Regional Library - Sylvan Way - Heninger Room (1301 Sylvan Way, Bremerton). Set your nonprofit up for success with the knowledge and tools to inspire generosity and secure a brighter future. We look forward to seeing you there!
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SPiN: Strategic Planning in Nonprofits
3-Part Series for Washington Nonprofits
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Thursdays, January 16, 23, & 30, 2025 (Online Only)
4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Cost: $75 for NAWA Members / $150 for Not-yet-Members
Is strategic planning on your radar? Do you need to clarify the strategic direction of your organization and the strategies that will be used to achieve your vision while also ensuring organizational health and sustainability? If you answered yes, join this three-part webinar series that will set you on the path to developing a plan that does not sit on a shelf collecting dust! Strategic planning aligns your people and resources around a plan to achieve your mission.
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Nonprofit Fundamentals Series | |
Conservation Effort in North Kitsap Continues with $6.3 Million Purchase of Forest | |
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Published in the Kitsap Sun, January 1, 2025
Photo: Provided by Great Peninsula Conservancy
Over 450 acres of forest land has been acquired by Great Peninsula Conservancy, completing a major piece of the historic Kitsap Forest & Bay preservation effort near the North Kitsap community of Port Gamble.
The Bremerton-based nonprofit announced the purchase of North Kitsap Divide Community Forest in a statement on Monday. Procuring this land parcel now ensures the forest is protected and managed by GPC as a conservation and recreational resource for Kitsap residents, according to the statement.
“In our 25-year history, this is the single largest land acquisition we've undertaken, marking a significant milestone in our organizational journey and a huge leap forward for regional conservation," said Nathan Daniel, executive director of GPC, in a statement. "By protecting these 467 acres, we're preserving critical wildlife habitat, creating a lasting legacy for Kitsap County, and demonstrating the power of collaborative conservation.”
Read the full story here
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Bremerton HS Wrestling Seeks
Business and Community Support
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The Bremerton High School men's and women's wrestling programs are currently raising funds to address a critical need: replacing the practice wrestling mats and purchasing updated gear for their wrestlers. The mats currently being used have served the team for many years but are now worn with holes, creating safety concerns. Additionally, outfitting the growing men’s and women’s programs with proper gear is essential to their success and safety on the mat.
On behalf of the wrestling team booster organization, Dennis Malcom of Honey Malcom Winery invites members of the Greater Kitsap Chamber to rally in support of the youth in our community through partnership in achieving this goal. By contributing to their efforts, you will directly impact the lives of local student-athletes, helping them to grow in confidence, discipline, and teamwork.
How You Can Help:
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Sponsor the Team: Your business logo can be featured on new wrestling mats, banners, or promotional materials.
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Make a Donation: Any amount, big or small, will make a difference in reaching our fundraising goal.
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In-Kind Support: If your business can provide services or products, such as event hosting, catering for fundraisers, or printing services, we’d love to collaborate.
In appreciation of your support, the team will proudly recognize your business on social media platforms, at wrestling meets, and during their community events. Your generosity will help ensure a safe and supportive environment for these student athletes to thrive.
For more information on how you or your business can support, please contact Dennis Malcom via email HERE or at (360) 620-8827.
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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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Radiant Reflections @ BIMA
Celebrating the Beauty of the African Diaspora
January 10 - February 23, 2025
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Fancy Vargas, Guest Curator, conceived this group exhibition to explore, celebrate, and elevate the beauty and radiance of Blackness as an experience. This exhibition aims to present a multifaceted portrayal of Black identity, culture, and experience, and showcase the complexities, resilience, richness, and joys that define the African diaspora. | |
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Ovation Presents:
You're a Good Man Charlie Brown
January 10 - 19, 2025
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Clearwater Casino Presents:
Rock Shop - 80's Hair Rock Tribute
Friday, January 10, 2025, 8:30 pm
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Sunday Girl - Blondie Tribute
Saturday, January 11, 2025, 8:30 pm
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Admiral Theatre:
The Rumba Kings
Saturday, January 11, 2025, 7:00 pm
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The Rumba Kings defy expectations with their captivating live performances. Although their name suggests a focus on rumba, the band's repertoire extends far beyond that genre. Their music draws from a wide range of influences, resulting in a diverse and enchanting experience.
At the heart of their show is the Spanish guitar, which takes center stage alongside a string quartet and various other instruments, while guest vocalists make up a portion of the performance, the majority of the show is instrumental, appealing to audiences of all ages and demographics. The band aims to create an international experience, carefully selecting music and performers to resonate with a broad audience.
The Rumba Kings prioritize showmanship, infusing their soulful and passionate music with a visually engaging performance. Guitarist George Stevens adds a visual dimension by dancing while playing and connecting with the crowd, enhancing the overall experience for the audience.
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Comedian Kevin Nealon
Friday, January 17, 2025, 7:30 pm
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Kevin Nealon is an Emmy and SAG-nominated actor and comedian who sets himself apart from other comedic performers with his unique sense of humor, dry wit and likable demeanor. Nealon is best known for his nine-year stint as a cast member of NBC’s Saturday Night Live, and received critical acclaim for his role in the hit Showtime series Weeds. Kevin currently produces and hosts his digital series Hiking with Kevin, and tours his stand-up globally. He will be releasing his latest book, I Exaggerate: My Brushes with Fame (Abrams), on October 25, 2022. Part art book, part memoir -- the book is full of original full-color caricatures Kevin has created along with funny, endearing personal essays about his famous friends.
Nealon’s extensive television credits include the CBS sitcom, Man With a Plan, in which he starred alongside Matt LeBlanc; Showtime’s Weeds, which ran for eight seasons and was honored at the 2006, 2007 and 2009 Golden Globes with nominations for “Best Television Series Comedy or Musical.” In 2007 and 2009, Weeds was nominated for the Screen Actors Guild Award for “Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series.” Additional television roles include two critically acclaimed stand-up specials for Showtime; and a number of appearances on Hot In Cleveland, Franklin & Bash, Monk, Curb Your Enthusiasm and Still Standing.
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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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