Wednesday, April 15, 2026 | | Court Battle Ignites Over WA's New Income Tax | |
Published in the WA State Standard, April 8, 2026
Photo: Bill Lucia/WA State Standard
Opponents of Washington’s new income tax on high earners filed a lawsuit Thursday, arguing the controversial law is unconstitutional and in conflict with nearly a century of state Supreme Court precedent.
This marks the start of a much-anticipated legal brawl over the law, which Gov. Bob Ferguson signed late last month. Dubbed the “millionaires’ tax” by backers, it imposes a 9.9% tax on household wage earnings above $1 million a year.
“We are challenging an illegal, unconstitutional income tax that clearly flies in the face of the constitution, of precedent and of voter will,” said former state attorney general Rob McKenna, who is running point on the effort to invalidate the law.
The core argument opponents of the tax make is that income is property and, according to the state constitution, property taxes must be applied uniformly and cannot exceed a rate of 1%. This makes graduated or progressive income taxes unconstitutional, they contend.
They also point out that the state Supreme Court has held that income is property, including in a precedent-setting ruling in 1933.
McKenna, former state Supreme Court justice Phil Talmadge and Jackson Maynard, executive director of the Citizen Action Defense Fund, are the lead attorneys on the case.
The lawsuit was filed on Thursday in Klickitat County Superior Court. The lead plaintiffs are Ben and Lauren Petter, a married couple. Ben Petter is a builder, Lauren Petter owns a marketing business. Together they will earn over a million dollars when the law takes effect and would be subject to the tax, the lawsuit says.
Read the article here
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Armed Forces Day 2026
Saturday, May 16, 2026, 10:00am
| | First celebrated in 1948, the festival includes the nation’s largest and longest-running Armed Forces Day parade. This long-standing event is designed to thank the men and women who wear the uniform of the United States of America Armed Forces and recognize their service and commitment to our country and community. | |
April Membership Luncheon
Wednesday, April 29, 2026, 11:00am
| | Join us this month as we re-cap the 2026 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. | |
Chamber: Off the Clock
Tuesday, April 21, 2026, 5:05pm
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Old Town Kitchen
Ribbon Cutting & Grand Opening
Saturday, April 25, 2026, 10:30am
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Accessible Healthcare with NICE
Business Health Trust Has You Covered
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Not loving your current benefits experience?
If your current plan feels harder to use than it should, it may be time for a closer look. Through our chamber’s partnership with Business Health Trust, members can compare options from major carriers and build benefits that work better for both employers and employees.
Many BHT medical plans also include Nice Healthcare, giving employees a simple first stop for $0 care with virtual visits, mental health support, physical therapy, and in-person follow-ups in many areas.
🔗 Webpage Link: https://businesshealthtrust.com/products/nice-healthcare/
Questions? Contact BHT!
(425) 201-1972
nice@businesshealthtrust.com
Not a BHT member? Are you ready to build a better benefits package?
Visit bhtquote.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 us now!
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Missed a previous edition of the Chamber's Community Connections?
View all the past issues on our website HERE.
| | New Members - Welcome to the Chamber! | |
Kitsap Public Health District
Tough Love: Connection is Overdose Prevention
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When it comes to keeping people safe, being "tough" does more harm than good. By showing love instead of judgment, we give people the chance to see their own strength, make safer choices, and access the support everyone deserves.
All of us can make a difference. Learn how here.
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Changing Faces, Changing Places
Share your business news today
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Has your team recently welcomed a new hire, celebrated a promotion, or marked a retirement? Kitsap Business magazine's Changing Faces, Changing Places section highlights the people powering our local business community. Chamber members are invited to share their staff updates for inclusion in an upcoming issue.
Send your announcements to news@kitsapbusiness.com and let us help you recognize the faces behind your success.
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The Greater Kitsap Chamber is pleased to recognize Reliable Storage as our April Member of the Month. A trusted local provider, and Chamber member since 1989, Reliable Storage has built a strong reputation for dependable service, safe facilities, and a genuine commitment to the Kitsap community. Their ongoing involvement with the Chamber reflects a business that values connection, relationships, and local impact.
Secure Solutions, Strong Community Ties
Serving individuals, families, and businesses throughout Kitsap County, Reliable Storage offers clean, accessible, and secure storage solutions designed to meet a wide range of needs. Whether supporting residents during life transitions or providing space solutions for local businesses, their services help make every day logistics simpler and more reliable.
Beyond their facilities, Reliable Storage is an engaged community partner. Their team is a regular presence at Chamber Luncheons and Chamber: Off the Clock, where they actively connect with fellow members and contribute to the collaborative spirit that defines the Greater Kitsap Chamber. Their participation helps foster meaningful relationships and strengthens the region’s business network.
A Reliable Partner in Every Sense
With a focus on customer service, professionalism, and local engagement, Reliable Storage consistently delivers on its promise of reliability. Their active participation in Chamber programs and events highlights their dedication to being more than just a service provider - they are a dependable partner invested in the success and well-being of Kitsap County.
The Greater Kitsap Chamber is grateful for Reliable Storage’s continued engagement and we’re proud to spotlight them as our April Member of the Month.
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Lattes with Legislators
Wednesday, April 29, 2026, 10:00am
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Members of the Greater Kitsap Chamber are invited to join the Advocacy Committee for coffee and an informal chat with state representatives to discuss the latest legislative session.
Held before our April Membership Luncheon. Coffee will be provided.
Please RSVP to kara@greaterkitsapchamber.com by April 22 to attend.
| Business & Professional Development Committee | | Member Education & Training Resources | | |
Gig Work - Capitalize on Tourism Wave
Become A Rideshare Driver
| The Kitsap Economic Development Alliance and Olympic College partnered to offer classes designed to help capitalize on the tourism surge arriving this June. The recorded sessions are now available - check them out below! | |
Whether you're new to Airbnb or looking to level up your hosting game, this hands-on workshop will walk you through the essentials of preparing your home for international guests—just in time for summer soccer visitors.
Learn how to create a standout listing, communicate clearly with travelers, and streamline your cleaning and turnover process. Discover how to showcase your local flair while meeting guest expectations—and maximize your bookings while you're at it!
| Airbnb Hosting: Get Guest Ready | Learn how to become a rideshare driver with this step-by-step overview. From meeting basic requirements and signing up with platforms like Uber or Lyft to understanding local licensing and getting your vehicle ready, this video covers everything you need to get started. Whether you're looking for a flexible side hustle or a new income stream, rideshare driving offers a simple way to earn on your own schedule. | |
SBDC: Unlocking Global Markets
Thursday, April 16, 2026, 10:00am
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This workshop is hosted by the Export-Import Bank of the United States. The sign-up leads to an Export-Import Bank of the United States registration page.
When embarking on your journey to exporting, it's hard to know where to start. "What financing options are available to support my export activities?" or "How can I identify what international markets are suitable for my product?" may be questions you're asking yourself, but you're unsure of where to go for those answers. That's where U.S. Export Assistance Centers (USEACs) and Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) come in. USEACs and SBDCs help small businesses navigate the complexities of exporting with ease.
Join the Small Business Administration (SBA), the Washington Small Business Development Center, the U.S. Commercial Service Seattle, and the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) as we share insights on the benefits of USEACs and SBDCs.
During this webinar, you'll learn:
- What USEACs and SBDCs do and where you can find your local centers
- Products and programs designed to protect and support you throughout your exporting journey
- Expert advice for small businesses looking to begin exporting or grow in foreign markets
Also, during this session, we'll host an engaging fireside chat where we'll dive deeper into the export resources designed to help your business thrive globally.
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SCORE: Collecting Customer Feedback
Tools, Tips & Best Practices
Thursday, April 16, 2026, 12:00pm
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Learn how to capture and leverage customer insights to strengthen your business. This new workshop introduces best-in-class, cost-effective technologies for collecting and managing customer feedback. Participants will also explore recommended information handling practices to ensure data is organized and actionable.
Registration Fee: FREE
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SCORE: Visualize Your Success
Strategic Planning Tools
Monday, April 20, 2026, 8:00am
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Dive into the world of strategic planning with easy-to-use visual tools designed to bring clarity to your business goals. Whether you're a startup or an established business, learn how to define your purpose, understand your customers' needs, and craft effective plans for growth. This virtual workshop introduces powerful tools like the Value Proposition Canvas and Business Model Canvas, equipping you with the skills to create comprehensive business, marketing, and product development strategies.
The Value Proposition Canvas and Business Model Canvas (Alex Osterwalder, Strategyzer) are easy to use, one-page visual tools which bring clarity to your business planning.
Registration Fee: $10
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SBDC: Say It Better. Sell It Faster. With AI.
Thursday, April 23, 2026, 11:00am
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Part 3: Turn Conversation into Customers "Your Conversion Blueprint"
Smarter Messaging & Marketing for Real-World Business Owners.
Live, hands-on marketing series for small business owners.
This is the third of a three-session series where you will learn how to turn your business into a content machine—one AI prompt at a time. No fluff. Just real-world output you can actually use.
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World Cup Ready: Expanded Alcohol Services Application & Permitting Training
Tuesday, April 28, 2026, 11:00am
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Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (LCB) has introduced new, temporary opportunities that expand where and how alcohol can be sold and served—opening doors for local governments, event organizers, and liquor licensees alike. We will also cover the state’s Expanded Alcohol Services program that authorized under recent legislation and in effect through December 31, 2027 in Fan Zones for Bellingham, Bremerton, Everett, Olympia/Lacey, Tri-Cities, Spokane, Tacoma, Vancouver, and Yakima. We'll walk through the first steps of creaing your accoutn in the LCB Portal and how to get started.
The webinar will cover:
- Roles and responsibilities of both liquor licensees and local jurisdiction
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The application and approval process through the LCB Portal
- Important timelines, fees, and compliance considerations
| Business News & Resources | | |
Everything You Need to Know to Build a
Content Strategy for Your Small Business
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Published by the US Chamber of Commerce, March 18, 2026
Photo courtesy of the US Chamber of Commerce
A solid content strategy with a strong strategic framework is the difference between shouting into the void and actually growing your brand. If you’re looking to build or refine your current content strategy, this guide explains how to build a sustainable plan that drives real results for your business.
What is a content strategy?
A content strategy is your business’s game plan for how it distributes information to its audience. It moves you away from "random acts of marketing" and toward a repeatable system. For a small business owner, this means defining exactly who you are helping, the specific problems you solve for them, and the platforms where those people actually hang out.
“Clarity of positioning is everything,” said Andrei Safonau, Co-founder and Head of Insights at NATPAT. “When we became clearer about who we were for, and who we weren’t for, our content improved overnight.”
Equally as important as clarity of positioning is clarity of your brand’s unique voice.
Read the article here
| | WA Zero-Emission Incentive Program | | |
Bridging the cost gap between diesel and zero-emission fleets
The Washington Zero-Emission Incentive Program (WAZIP) helps businesses and commercial fleets save money when they buy or lease cleaner vehicles and equipment. WAZIP is funded by Washington’s Climate Commitment Act (CCA) managed by the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) and administered by CALSTART.
WAZIP offers point of sale vouchers that lower the upfront cost of eligible zero-emission on-road vehicles and off-road equipment. Purchasers can choose from a catalog of approved models and work directly with participating sellers to complete their purchase.
WAZIP offers:
- Discounts at the time of purchase or lease (as long as available funding lasts)
- Support finding a ZEV that fits your needs
- Technical and infrastructure support to ensure fleet readiness
| | 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. | |
April is Ladder, Stairway & Scaffold Awareness Month.
And next month is Heat Related Illness Awareness Month. How do I know that? By staying in the safety loop with the Northwest Independent Contractors Association’s safety calendar. This amazing training tool, funded by L&I, provides a safety topic for each month, along with a safety meeting tracker and attendance sheet.
Quick ladder safety tips:
- Inspect ladders for physical defects before use.
- When you ascend or descend a ladder, do not carry objects that will prevent you from grasping the ladder with both hands.
- Always face the ladder when ascending and descending.
- Labels must be original and weight loads must be followed for each class of ladder.
And let’s look ahead to May with some heat related illness information:
- Employers must supply adequate water and encourage workers who work in hot weather to drink regularly
- Even for workers who are not thirsty, a small amount of water every 15 minutes is recommended rather than a large amount after hours of sweating.
- Learn and look for the signs and symptoms of heat-related illness.
- This is especially important for non- acclimatized workers, those returning from vacations, and all workers during heat waves.
- Try to do the heaviest work during the cooler parts of the day.
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored, breathable (e.g. cotton) clothing and a hat.
Want to learn more? Check out these resources:
| | Nonprofit News & Resources | |
IRS Expands Business Tax Account to
Tax-Exempt Organizations
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Published in NonprofitPRO, April 9, 2026
Photo: Kiyoshi Hijiki/Getty Images
The Internal Revenue Service announced a major expansion of its Business Tax Account, making the online self-service platform available to partnerships, federal, state, and local governments, Indian tribal governments, and tax-exempt organizations.
“By opening the Business Tax Account to partnerships, tax-exempts and other organizations, we’re giving millions more entities secure, convenient access to their tax information,” said IRS Chief Executive Officer Frank J. Bisignano. “Digital access will reduce the burden on these taxpayers because they no longer will be limited to paper and phone interactions to perform simple tasks with the IRS.”
The newly eligible entities join sole proprietors, S corporations, and C corporations that are already able to access the platform. The expansion supports the agency’s ongoing service improvement effort by broadening digital access to more segments of the business community.
The Business Tax Account is a secure, centralized platform that allows eligible users to manage their federal tax responsibilities online. Through BTA, users and designated officials can:
- View tax balances, make payments, and see payment history
- Download select digital notices
- View eligible transcripts, such as payroll and income
- Request a tax compliance check
- See the business name and address on file with the IRS
Read the article here
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WA State Nonprofit Conference
May 6 - May 7, 2026
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The Washington State Nonprofit Conference (WSNC) is right around the corner! This year’s Conference is online May 6-7 with an in-person regional WSNC location in Tacoma on Monday, May 11. We hope you will grab an All Access registration to maximize your opportunities for learning, connection, and reflection.
Make new connections through activities designed to support networking, exhibitor exploration, and peer learning. And participate in special in-person opportunities like NAWA’s first raffle fundraiser, a food drive for Emergency Food Network, a giving opportunity to support professional development, and a closing reception to celebrate how nonprofits get it done!
| | WA Confronts Another Year of Drought | |
Published in the WA State Standard, April 8, 2026
Photo courtesy of US Bureau of Land Management
Washington’s Department of Ecology announced a statewide drought emergency Wednesday, marking the fourth consecutive year that part or all of the state has been in a drought.
“We declare drought when water supply drops below 75% of normal,” said Casey Sixkiller, director of Ecology. “This year, every watershed in our state has met that threshold.”
Snowpack in the mountains is at about half of normal.
The emergency declaration follows an above average wet winter where precipitation levels were 104% of what is considered normal. But warmer temperatures limited snowpack growth. Snow turned into rain or melted.
“Last year’s drought was mostly due to low precipitation,” said Karin Bumbaco, deputy state climatologist for the Washington State Climate Office. “This year’s drought is exactly what we expect to see more of in the future.”
“Statewide, the water year average temperature ranks as the third warmest since records began in 1895,” Bumbaco added.
Mountain snowpack acts as a natural reservoir for the state. When it’s low, rivers run low, farmers face water shortages and fish habitat suffers.
Read the article here
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Plan Ahead for Daily Closures of the
Hood Canal Bridge During April
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Published in the Kitsap Sun, April 13, 2026
Photo courtesy of The Kitsap Sun
Drivers should plan ahead for crossing Hood Canal during weekdays over the next two weeks, as the Hood Canal Bridge is scheduled to close for an hour twice a day for a series of bridge inspections starting on Monday, April 13.
The inspections will be conducted by Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) crews.
According to the state agency, the bridge will close from 10 a.m.-11 a.m. and again from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, from April 13 to 17 and then again from April 20 to 24.
There may be additional bridge closures unrelated to inspections. Crews will combine closures for inspections and marine traffic as schedules allow, according to WSDOT.
People can check information about the Hood Canal Bridge via Hoodcanalbridge.com, WSDOT email alerts and on the statewide travel map. Travelers who download the WSDOT app also have access to push notifications for bridge closures, according to WSDOT.
Read the article here
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KCMT Presents: Frozen
April 11-26, 2026
| The enchanting modern classic is based on the 2018 Broadway musical and brings Elsa, Anna, and the magical land of Arendelle to life, onstage. The show features all the memorable songs from the animated film, with music and lyrics by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, plus five new songs written for the Broadway production. A story of true love and acceptance between sisters, Frozen expands upon the emotional relationship and journey between Princesses Anna and Elsa. When faced with danger, the two discover their hidden potential and the powerful bond of sisterhood. With a cast of beloved characters and loaded with magic, adventure, and plenty of humor, Frozen is sure to thaw even the coldest heart! | |
Earth Day @ Poulsbo's Fish Park
Saturday, April 18, 2026, 10:00am
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Vista Gardens Spring Flowers Tour
Saturday, April 18, 2026, 10:00am
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Join us at Vista Gardens on Saturday, April 18 for the “Spring Flowers” tour, where the garden is in full bloom, showcasing a breathtaking array of colors and fragrances. This tour celebrates the peak of spring, as flowers of all shapes and sizes burst into life across our garden spaces.
Our knowledgeable guide, John Albers, will lead you through the vibrant displays, highlighting both familiar favorites and unique varieties that thrive in our region. Learn about the planting and care of spring flowers, the role they play in supporting pollinators, and how to create your own stunning spring garden.
This tour is a feast for the senses and a must for anyone who loves the beauty of springtime. Come and revel in the joyful display of nature’s most colorful season at Vista Gardens.
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Celebrate Earth Day with
WWU Peninsulas and Olympic College
Wednesday, April 22, 2026, 2:00pm
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Earth Day at Bloedel Reserve
Sunday, April 26, 2026, 10:00am
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Kitsap Summer Music Discovery Camp
Sign up now!
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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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Clearwater Casino Presents:
Six Gun Rebels - Bad Company Tribute
Friday, April 17, 2026, 8:30pm
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Abbagraphs - ABBA Tribute
Saturday, April 18, 2026, 8:30pm
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The Coast to Coast Tour @ The Admiral Theatre
Friday, April 17, 2026, 7:30pm
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Candlelight Concerts @ The Roxy Theatre
Saturday, April 18, 2026, 5:30pm and 8:15pm
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Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before in Bremerton.
5:30 PM The Best of Hans Zimmer
8:15 PM Queen vs. ABBA
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Concerts at Port Gamble: Jaimee Harris
Saturday, April 18, 2026, 7:00pm
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Umami Jazz Fusion @ The Roxy Theatre
Thursday, April 23, 2026, 7:00pm
| | Get ready for an unforgettable night of sizzling jazz fusion, as UMAMI takes the stage with their electrifying blend of classic 70's fusion anthems and irresistible original compositions. Led by visionary trumpeter John Sakura (Tamaraw, Full Circle, Type A!), this powerhouse ensemble is redefining what it means to experience live jazz. | |
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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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.
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