|
Secure Your Sponsorship Now:
78th Annual Armed Forces Day Parade
| | |
April Membership Luncheon
Wednesday, April 30, 2025, 11:00 am
| | |
Join us this month as we re-cap the 2025 Legislative Session with AWB's Vice President of Government Affairs, Morgan Irwin. Find out what businesses can expect from this session, how our communities are being impacted, and where Washington is headed next.
You won't want to miss this opportunity to network and be informed. Be sure to bring your business cards and we'll see you one week later than usual on Wednesday, April 30th!
Paid parking is available on the Green Level underneath the Kitsap Conference Center.
| | |
Ribbon Cutting @ Jolie Bean Coffee
Friday, April 11, 2025, 11:30 am
| | |
Chamber: Off the Clock @ Oxford Suites
Tuesday, April 15, 2025, 5:05 pm
| | Insurance Needs for You & Your Employees: Business Health Trust Has You Covered | | |
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.
| | |
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 David now!
| |
Missed a previous edition of the Chamber's Community Connections?
View all the past issues on our website HERE.
| | |
Moving into Spring
Thursday, April 17, 2025, 5:00 pm
| | |
Applications Still Open to Chamber Members:
Leadership Kitsap Signature Program
| | |
Applications are still being accepted for Leadership Kitsap's Signature Program - a special deadline extension exclusive to Chamber members and Tribal members throughout Kitsap. Apply now to become a part of a decades-long tradition of building strong leaders for our community.
Worried about the cost? Apply for the Hanten-Berger Scholarship to help cover up to 50% of tuition costs, regardless of your job title or experience. Questions? Contact Leadership Kitsap at info@leadershipkitsap.org or call (360) 782-1058.
| |
Protecting Those Who Protect Us
Nestled in Bremerton, Washington, SAFE Boats International has built a global reputation for designing and manufacturing some of the most rugged, high-performance watercraft on the market. Since its inception, SAFE Boats has been dedicated to a singular mission: building boats that protect those who protect us. From military and law enforcement agencies to fire and rescue teams, SAFE Boats provides vessels that ensure safety, durability, and unmatched performance in the most challenging conditions.
A Legacy of Innovation and Craftsmanship
Founded in 1997, SAFE Boats International has grown from a small startup to an industry leader in maritime security and defense. The company’s name—SAFE—stands for "Secured Around Flotation Equipped," reflecting its pioneering use of foam flotation collars that make its vessels nearly unsinkable.
Over the years, SAFE Boats has expanded its product lines and capabilities, delivering cutting-edge vessels to agencies worldwide, including the U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, law enforcement agencies, and international defense forces. With a commitment to American manufacturing, every SAFE Boat is built in Washington State, maintaining the highest standards of quality and performance.
A Commitment to Community and Service
Beyond its role in supplying world-class vessels, SAFE Boats International is deeply committed to its employees, community, and the industries it serves. The company supports numerous initiatives for veterans, first responders, and maritime professionals, recognizing the importance of those who dedicate their lives to safety and service.
SAFE Boats also plays a role in the Bremerton economy, providing skilled jobs and contributing to the region’s reputation as a hub for advanced maritime manufacturing. By investing in local talent and maintaining a 100% U.S.-based production, SAFE Boats strengthens both national security and the local workforce.
Connect with SAFE Boats International
To learn more about their industry-leading vessels or to discuss custom maritime solutions, visit safeboats.com or follow them on Facebook.
| | |
Search is On in Washington Legislature
for New Tax Options
| | |
Published in The Washington State Standard, April 5, 2025
Photo: Jerry Cornfield/Washington State Standard
How much Washington should raise in new tax revenue and who will pay is something state lawmakers and Gov. Bob Ferguson will hash out in the final weeks of the legislative session.
Washington’s wealthiest individuals, largest corporations and biggest banks are prime targets. Homeowners, vapers and self-storage unit renters are among those who could share in the burden. Possible tweaks to expand the state’s capital gains tax could also be in play.
“There will be a tax increase,” House Speaker Laurie Jinkins, D-Tacoma, said Wednesday. “It’s figuring out the right kind of balance and making sure we’re able to not harm everyday Washingtonians.”
A day earlier, Ferguson threw cold water on House and Senate Democrats’ desire to tax those with more than $50 million. He said the tax is “untested, difficult to implement, and most importantly, for purposes of adopting a sustainable budget, will face an immediate challenge in court.”
Read the story here
| | Business & Professional Development Committee | | Member Education & Training Resources | | |
SCORE: E-Mail Marketing Essentials
Wednesday, April 9, 2025, 2:00 pm
| | |
Research says that for every $1 spent on E-Mail marketing there is an average $44 return on investment. To generate such positive outcomes, businesses have to reach the right customers with targeted campaigns. If you feel your E-Mail efforts don't yet pay off, this workshop is for you! This class will teach basic and advanced techniques to propel your E-Mail efforts.
You Will Learn:
- The 5 C’s of E-Mail Marketing Basics
- How to create a content calendar with a complimentary digital version sent to all students
- How to pick the E-Mail platform right for your business
- Anatomy of E-Mail design
- Subject Lines
- Best times and days to send E-Mails
- Why List Segmentation is important (case study provided)
- Basic Automations
- A/B Testing Tips
Registration Fee: FREE
| | |
SCORE: Cultivating a Business
Mindset for Success
Friday, April 11, 2025, 10:00 am
| |
 | | In today's competitive business landscape, a successful entrepreneur requires more than just technical expertise and a keen sense of market trends. They also need a resilient mindset that can help them weather the storms of uncertainty, overcome obstacles, and stay motivated during ups and downs. This interactive and inspiring workshop, "Cultivating a Business Mindset for Success," will help you unlock your potential as an entrepreneur by teaching you practical strategies for developing a growth mindset and overcoming limiting beliefs. You'll learn how to shift your focus from fear to opportunity, embrace failure as a valuable learning experience, and harness the power of positive thinking to achieve your goals. With real-life case studies and actionable advice, this workshop will empower you to cultivate a winning attitude and create abundance in your life and business. So, if you're ready to transform your mindset and take your entrepreneurial journey to the next level, this workshop is the perfect opportunity for you.
Registration Fee: FREE
| | |
Washington State Dept of Labor & Industries: Business Essentials Webinar
Friday, April 18, 2025, 9:30 am
| | |
MBA Workshop: How to Build Business
Value Through Strategic Branding
Tuesday, April 22, 2025, 9:00 am
| | Business News & Resources | | |
US Imposes Sweeping Tariffs,
Escalating Global Trade War
| | |
Courtesy of the Association of Washington Business
Trade war brewing: As President Donald Trump imposed far-reaching tariffs on global imports last week, Washington official and business leaders are sounding the alarm about impacts to the state’s economy.
- On Friday, China moved to impose a 34% retaliatory tariff on all U.S. goods starting April 10. The tariffs sent stock markets tumbling, one of Wall Street’s worst weeks since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.
-
Washington farmers and seafood producers are bracing for potential impacts; China is the state’s No. 4 export market for agricultural products and seafood.
Washington leaders respond: U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell has introduced bipartisan legislation that would give Congress more authority in setting tariffs. On Friday, Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson issued a statement on the tariffs:
“Our businesses, communities, and trading partners tell me this senseless trade war is making it very challenging to hire or plan for the future,” Ferguson said. “It is making our ports and product exports less competitive around the globe. And it is damaging relationships that have been decades in the making.”
What AWB is doing: AWB is seriously concerned about the impacts of the broad tariffs on Washington’s economy and threats to businesses and jobs. We continue to monitor the situation and assess the potential impacts across industry sectors. We just published a new issue brief on the importance of trade to Washington’s economy.
Share your perspective: Take AWB’s short survey and tell us how you expect new tariffs to impact your business.
| |
Quick and interesting reads for employers, employees,
local leaders, and everyone in between!
| | 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. | | |
Unlocking Success: How L&I Supports
Washington’s Small Businesses
Running a business comes with countless challenges—compliance, safety regulations, hiring, and keeping up with ever-changing workplace laws. Fortunately, the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) is more than just a regulatory agency; it’s an invaluable partner for small businesses across the state.
More Than Workplace Inspections
L&I is widely recognized for its role in workplace safety, ensuring compliance with health and safety standards, and investigating hazards. However, many business owners don’t realize the wealth of resources and expertise L&I provides to support entrepreneurs at every stage of growth.
With 19 offices statewide and a team of nearly 3,000 skilled professionals—including consultants and advisors—L&I is uniquely positioned to help businesses stay compliant, improve workplace safety, and navigate labor laws. Moreover, L&I offers confidential, no-fee consultations that can help you find and fix hazards in your workplace and strengthen your safety program. No fines or penalties will result from issues uncovered during a consultation.
A One-Stop Shop for Small Business Support
The L&I Small Business Office is a hidden gem for business owners looking for guidance on compliance, safety, and operations. Whether you’re just starting out or managing a growing workforce, L&I offers a variety of free services, including:
✅ Hiring Guidance: Confused about what paperwork you need to hire an employee? L&I provides step-by-step guidance to help businesses onboard new workers correctly.
✅ Safety & Compliance Templates: Need a workplace safety plan or record-keeping templates? L&I offers ready-to-use resources to simplify compliance and protect your employees.
✅ Workshops & Training: From L&I Essentials for Business (in English & Spanish) to ergonomics to retail safety to independent contractor guidelines, L&I hosts free educational workshops and maintains a video library covering essential topics for Washington businesses.
✅ Workers’ Compensation Expertise: As administrators of the state’s workers' compensation system, L&I acts like a large insurance provider, ensuring that injured workers receive medical care and wage-replacement benefits—while also helping employers understand their responsibilities and reduce risks.
A Vital—and Free—Resource for Local Businesses
Navigating Washington’s labor laws and safety requirements doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With L&I’s free resources and expert guidance, small businesses can stay compliant, reduce risks, and build a safer, more productive workplace.
Want to take advantage of these valuable business tools? Learn more at Lni.wa.gov/SmallBusiness
| | Nonprofit News & Resources | |
NAWA Online Training: Boards in Gear
Wednesday, April 9, 2025, 4:00 pm
| | |
You joined a nonprofit board because you care about the organization’s mission. You want your contributions as a board member to positively affect the issues addressed by the organization. As a board, you want your nonprofit to thrive and make a difference in the communities served by your organization. Whether your nonprofit is just starting or is long established, getting your board in gear can help put your organization on a clear path forward.
This interactive, virtual workshop is based on the Boards in Gear resources developed in partnership with some of our state’s leading board experts. You will leave with concrete action steps, tools, and connections.
The virtual workshop will cover:
- Board responsibilities
- Board operations
- Composition and development
- Fundraising
- Advocacy
This workshop will be recorded. Registrants will receive the recording by email after the event. If you can’t attend the training but you are interested in learning about this topic, please register so you we can send you the recording and materials.
| | |
Tools for Running an Effective Nonprofit
Saturday, April 26, 2025, 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
| | |
During Tools for Running an Effective Nonprofit, we will cover the basics of running a nonprofit. We will draw on tested tips and tools, including NAWA’s four learning toolkits on boards, finance, law, and planning. You will leave with concrete next steps on how to strengthen your organization to better achieve your mission.
Topics include:
- The right size for your organization to be sustainable
- Legal and finance information for compliance and protection
- Budgeting
- Program design
- Volunteer management
- Fundraising
- Grant readiness
You will leave ready to:
- Define to others what success looks like for your organization
- Name one way your organization can be more sustainable
- Name two elements to track for legal and financial compliance and protection
- Explain how your programs tie back to your mission
- Describe how your organization understands overhead
- List at least two things that need to be in a volunteer or board job description
- Name one way your organization can raise money without spending any money
WHO SHOULD ATTEND: This workshop is designed for board, volunteers and staff of smaller organizations. Anyone who wants to know nonprofit basics and have concrete actions to move their organizations forward will find something in the day. While a team is not necessary, it is helpful to have at least two people from an organization.
A light meal will be served. There will be plenty of breaks for networking and connection, and you will have opportunities to ask about specific resources your organization needs.
| | Kitsap County Board of Commissioners Appoints Gina Buskirk as District Court Judge | | |
The Kitsap County Board of Commissioners today announced the appointment of Gina Buskirk as District Court Judge for Department #2. Buskirk will begin her term on June 1, 2025, following the retirement of Judge Jeffrey J. Jahns, who concludes his distinguished service on May 31.
"Ms. Buskirk's extensive legal experience and deep community roots make her exceptionally qualified for this position," said Christine Rolfes, Chair of the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners. "Her commitment to justice and fairness will serve our community well."
The appointment follows a rigorous selection process announced in February 2025. The Board interviewed five highly qualified candidates for the position last week before announcing Buskirk's appointment today. Board members noted her wide range of experience and community involvement set her apart and made her ready to serve effectively from day one.
"I am honored and excited to serve the Kitsap County community as its newest District Court Judge, building upon the years of dedicated service of retiring Judge Jeffrey Jahns. I am committed to upholding the principles of fairness, integrity and a steadfast commitment to justice," said Buskirk.
Buskirk brings over 20 years of diverse legal experience to the bench. She currently serves as Partner and Managing Attorney at Puget Law Group, where she has established herself as a respected litigator. Her public service includes roles as City Prosecutor for Bremerton and Senior Deputy Prosecuting Attorney for Kitsap County. She has already demonstrated judicial aptitude as a Judge Pro Tem in multiple jurisdictions throughout the region.
| | |
Construction to Start Soon on New
Kingston Ferry Traffic Lane
| | |
Published in the Kitsap Sun, April 8, 2025
Construction is scheduled to begin soon on a new traffic lane feeding into the Washington State Ferries terminal in Kingston, in an attempt to alleviate the back-ups that regularly congest streets downtown.
A ferry traffic holding lane will be built on the shoulder of Highway 104 leading up to Lindvog Road, where a stoplight system will also be installed. After receiving a boarding pass at the stoplight, the light will change to green when there is space for cars to move to the toll booths. Similar to automated systems used on some highway onramps, this will be the first time an active traffic management system will be implemented at a ferry terminal, according to the project's FAQ sheet distributed by Kitsap County.
Read the full story here
| |
Traffic Advisory: State Route 3 Cleanup Alert
Kitsap County Public Works is pleased to announce an upcoming highway litter cleanup project that will be completed in partnership with state agencies. Please be advised that there will be traffic impacts on Sunday, April 13 due to a joint effort between Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) and Kitsap County crews to clean up litter along State Route 3, from SR 304 (Charleston Boulevard) to the railroad overpass near the exit to West Belfair Valley Road.
To facilitate this cleanup, WSDOT will be closing the right southbound/westbound lane from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. The left lane will remain open to traffic during this time. For your safety and the safety of our road workers, we kindly ask all drivers to lower their speed and exercise caution when passing through the work zone. Thank you for your patience and cooperation as we work together to keep our roads clean and safe for everyone.
| | |
Bremerton GreenDrinks @ Pin Seeker Golf
Thursday, April 10, 2025, 5:00 pm
| | |
Leadership Kitsap Community Project
Saturday, April 12, 2025, 12:00 - 4:00 pm
| | |
Developmental Disabilities Resource Fair
Wednesday, April 23, 2025, 4:00 pm
| | |
Suquamish Community Cleanup
Saturday, April 26, 2025, 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
| | |
2025 Spring Stand Down for Veterans
Saturday, April 26, 2025, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
| | For more information, contact Richard Becker, coordinator of the Kitsap Veterans Assistance Program at rbecker@kitsap.gov, 360.337.4811. | | |
Live Well Kitsap Community Hike
Saturday, April 26, 2025, 10:00 am
| | |
Bremerton Central Lions Club
Centennial Celebration
Saturday, April 26, 2025
| | |
KBA Presents: Home & Model Expo
May 2-4, 2025
| | |
Masks Still Available
Free at the Greater Kitsap Chamber & Visitor Center
| | |
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.
| |
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.
| |
Free immunization clinics for children
Kitsap Public Health is offering free immunization clinics for children 18 and younger on Jan. 22 and Jan. 23 in Bremerton. Our clinic provides flu shots, COVID-19 vaccines, and routine childhood immunizations.
Learn more and book an appointment at kitsappublichealth.org/clinic.
| | |
Admiral Theatre Presents:
The Barricade Boys Broadway Party
Friday, April 11, 2025, 7:30 pm
| | The Barricade Boys West End Party! Get ready to have your socks knocked off and your heart racing with The Barricade Boys! These four dazzling performers are taking the world by storm with their electrifying show that will have you tapping your feet, belting out your favourite tunes, and grinning from ear to ear. From the heart-wrenching emotion of Les Misérables to the toe-tapping harmonies of the Jersey Boys, The Barricade Boys will take you on a musical journey like no other. Throw in a mix of the greatest pop, rock, swing, and Motown hits of all time, and The Barricade Boys create the ultimate West End party musical mashup! | | |
Clearwater Casino Presents:
Randy Hansen - Jimi Hendrix Tribute
Friday, April 11, 2025, 8:30 pm
| |
Lucky Town - Springsteen Tribute
Saturday, April 12, 2025, 8:30 pm
| | |
Port Gamble Theatre Presents:
A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder
Closes April 13, 2025
| | |
Winner of the Tony Award, this brilliant and hilarious musical follows Monty Navarro, a charming and ambitious man who discovers he's eighth in line to inherit the prestigious D'Ysquith family earldom. Determined to speed up his ascension, Monty hatches a clever scheme to eliminate the relatives ahead of him, all while juggling the affections of two beautiful women. Don’t miss this side-splitting musical comedy! Recommended for ages 10 and up. Contains adult themes, humor, and farcical situations.
| | |
The Importance of Being Earnest
Opening April 25, 2025
| | |
Purchase Tickets Now: Bremerton Air Show
July 12 & 13, 2025
| | |
If you are a vendor looking to be a part of the 2025 Bremerton Air Show,
please visit their vendor site HERE.
| |
Stay in the know with what's happening for events
in Central Kitsap by checking out and liking the
| |
Have something to share? CLICK HERE to submit stories and
events for our weekly Community Connections!
| | |
Bremerton Office (360) 479-3579 | 705 Pacific Avenue in Downtown Bremerton
Silverdale Office (360) 692-6800 | Kitsap Mall
PO Box 1218 Silverdale WA 98383
If you need assistance, please contact us directly.
| | | | |
