Inaugural Northwest Business Conference Attracts Big Name Speakers And Sponsors

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

frankkenny Belfair

2010 US CENSUS

IT’S SAFE –It is illegal for the Census Bureau or its employees to share anything but the numbers with anyone (not tax or law enforcement, not Congress, etc).  Census information is more secure than when we pay bills or use the internet!  Protected for72 years by law.

IT’S IMPORTANT – The head count is mandated by the Constitution and determines Congressional representation, legislative districts, and the distribution to communities of over $436 BILLION Federal dollars per year (OUR TAX DOLLARS!) that fund 141 local programs such as schools, roads, emergency and health services, food banks etc. All based on Census numbers.

IT’S EASY – 10 questions, 10 minutes – no “long forms”.  Mail it back right away to avoid Census-takers coming to your door. It won’t be mailed to PO Boxes, so look for the location of BE COUNTED SITES and QUESTION ASSISTANCE CENTERS in local sources, to pick up your form.

Forms should start arriving in your mailbox March 19

LET OUR COMMUNITY BE COUNTED!

frankkenny Belfair

It is crucial to our community that Mason County responds to the Census, early and completely.

Ours is a rural county and so hard to count.  We also have hard to count non-English-speaking, homeless, and undocumented communities that draw from county resources.
Many of us live down long unmarked roads and tend to mistrust government – also hard to count.
This all means our Census count will be low, affecting our bottom line.

•    Mason County had a 37% mail back response rate in the 2000 Census.  It costs $18 million tax dollars to raise the rate 1%, nationwide, by collecting information door-to-door, up to six times per residence.

•    The Federal Government distributes $436 BILLION PER YEAR of OUR TAX DOLLARS to communities like ours based on the Census count.  In Mason County, that’s over $1,000 PER PERSON PER YEAR!  Dollars that support programs for small business, transportation, infrastructure, education, food banks, and emergency planning and assistance, to name just a few.

•    Census forms will NOT be mailed to P.O. BOXES – that’s 70-75% of Mason County.  We will have BE COUNTED SITES around the county where people can pick up a form.  If we mail forms back quickly, we can prevent Census takers from coming to our doors, saving money and privacy.

•    Our Representation in Congress hangs in the balance.  We must grow our representation, and draw legislative districts, along with our population.  This count affects the next 10 years of decision-making.

Faith in Action Exec Director, Patti Kleist, among others, partnered with the Census to help bring this message to our community.  We ask that the Chamber members be partners, as well.  We need our numbers to reflect who we are. Pass on the word, and ask that your constituents also pass it on (See How You Can Help on Pg 2)

SAFE: Personal info is protected by law for 72 years (including from law and tax enforcement, Congress, etc). EASY:  Only 10 Questions                DATES: Mail-out begins mid-March 2010
www.2010Census.gov

FOR MORE MASON COUNTY INFO:
Alex Grinenko 360-490-9360 alexgrin@copper.net    Wendy Mathews 360-689-4619 businesswom@gmail.com

As leaders in Mason County, you have seen first-hand the benefits of knowing how many people make up your community and where they reside. Census data is your most complete source. 2010 data will be used for the next 10 years to determine representation in Congress, for distribution of federal dollars, and districting, so it is important to get an accurate count.

To increase the mail-back rate and overall response of Mason County residents, the 2010 US Census asks you to:

•    Allow Census drop-in articles to be placed in your newsletters or flyers to be inserted to your employees pay check envelopes.

•    Send out an e-mail to your members or constituents supporting the Census and encouraging people to mail back their forms.

•    Post or send out information that lets people know that if they do not receive a form (P.O. boxes or hard to find homes), they should pick up a form from one of several local Be Counted sites around the county.

•    Become a Be Counted site so that people can easily pick up a form.

•    Allow a Census representative make a short presentation at a work or association meeting or event.

If you or your company, association, club, or agency can help in this, or in any other way, please contact one of your local Partnership Assistants for Mason County:

Alex Grinenko  360-490-9360      or    Wendy Mathews 360-689-4619

http://www.census.gov/                    http://2010.census.gov/2010census/

frankkenny Belfair

Edition 6, March 1, 2010

The Belfair Wastewater and Water Reclamation Facilities Project continues construction on conveyance and at the water reclamation facility. To keep the community informed about construction activities, we are sending regular construction e-mails to let you know where and when contractors will be working and to give you updates on project progress. These notices are also posted to the project Web site.

Upcoming activities – beginning week of March 1

• Watch for us in the community! Engineers have begun conducting a door-to-door survey to gather information for existing on-property utilities to help streamline side sewer connections. This will include asking property owners where their existing plumbing exits their building and where current septic tanks/drain fields are located.  Once the survey is completed, we will provide additional information and work directly with property owners on the location of their side sewers, including providing documentation of individual locations of side sewer stubs.  For the most current information on side sewers, see our Web site.
• Nighttime work: The prime contractor will continue nighttime work with two crews on SR 3 installing the mainline sewer.  One crew is working northward from Clifton Road, while the other will continue working on SR 3 near Belfair Street and beyond (then moving south). Hours of nighttime work will be approximately 7 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. During this work, you can expect single-lane closures along SR 3 and flaggers directing traffic. Locations of road closures will move as the contractor completes initial trenching and dewatering, installs pipes, and moves to the next segment of pipe.
• Main boring pit: The boring pit at the intersection of SR 3 and SR 300 will continue to be utilized for the installation pipes northward from the boring pit. Pipes will be installed using trenchless methods, using a technique called jack and bore. The pit will likely be used for approximately three additional weeks.
• Water reclamation facility: Clearing for the treatment plant site is complete and excavations for the basins is nearly complete. The needed right of way has been cleared for utilities to be connected and the improvements to the access road will continue this week.
• Underground utilities: On an ongoing basis, crews are working to seek out existing underground utility locations to avoid service interruptions.  Please note that unforeseen, temporary utility and/or water interruptions are possible during construction work in existing right of ways.  We will work to notify you of any service issues as soon as we are aware of them.
• Pump Station 2: All utility easements and properties for PS 2 have been acquired. You can expect to see work begin on the pump station (located in the West parking lot of the Assembly of God Church) this week.
• Pump Station 3: Clearing for the site and access road to PS 3 are underway.

Please note that contractor schedules are dependent upon weather conditions and delivery of materials.

Recent project progress

• · To date, approximately 1,300 feet of pipe have been laid within the SR 3 right of way.
• Clearing for the site of the new wastewater treatment plant has been completed.

What can you expect during construction?

• Equipment noise, active truck traffic, dust and mud. We will try to minimize dust and mud in the roadways, but drivers can expect some dust and mud at times.
• Safety is our priority. You will notice flaggers at active construction sites. Please keep yourself and children a safe distance from the construction trenches and equipment.  Hardhats and vests are required in all construction areas. Emergency vehicles will always have access to your property; we will do our best to ensure you are able to get in and out of your homes and businesses efficiently.
• When crews are not on site, a combination of steel plates, fencing, signs and cones will be used to close off construction areas.
• Unforeseen, temporary utility and/or water interruptions are possible. We will work to notify you of any service issues as soon as we are aware of them.

If you have any immediate questions or concerns, please call our 24-hour project hotline at 360-801-2482.

Contact us:

E-mail: info@masoncountywastewater.com

Visit: www.masoncountywastewater.com
Phone: 360-801-2482

frankkenny Belfair

Edition 5, February 22, 2010

The Belfair Wastewater and Water Reclamation Facilities Project continues construction on conveyance and at the water reclamation facility. Thanks to local business and residents being very understanding and helpful, work is getting done quickly. WSDOT has been a great partner in the efforts and challenges facing the team thus far while working in the WSDOT right of way on SR 3.

To keep the community informed about construction activities, we are sending regular construction e-mails to let you know where and when contractors will be working and to give you updates on project progress. These notices are also posted to the project Web site.

Upcoming activities – beginning week of February 22

• Watch for us in the community! Beginning this week, engineers will begin conducting a door-to-door survey to gather information for existing on-property utilities to help streamline side sewer connections. This will include asking property owners where their existing plumbing exits their building and where current septic tanks/drain fields are located.  Once the survey is completed, we will provide additional information and work directly with property owners on the location of their side sewers, including providing documentation of individual locations of side sewer stubs.  For the most current information on side sewers, see our Web site.

• Nighttime work: The prime contractor will continue nighttime work with two crews on SR 3 installing the mainline sewer.  One crew is working northward from Clifton Road, while the other will continue  working on SR 3 near Belfair Street and beyond (then moving south). Hours of nighttime work will be approximately 7 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. During this work, you can expect single-lane closures along SR 3 and flaggers directing traffic. Locations of road closures will move as the contractor completes initial trenching and dewatering, installs pipes, and moves to the next segment of pipe.

• Main boring pit: The boring pit at the intersection of SR 3 and SR 300 will continue to be utilized for the installation pipes northward from the boring pit. Pipes will be installed using trenchless methods, using a technique called jack and bore. The pit will likely be used for approximately four additional weeks.

• Water reclamation facility: Clearing and reading of the water reclamation facility continues.  We anticipate that addition equipment is going to be delivered during the week of March 1 to begin excavation, followed by foundation building.

• Underground utilities: On an ongoing basis, crews are working to seek out existing underground utility locations to avoid service interruptions.  Please not that unforeseen, temporary utility and/or water interruptions are possible during construction work in existing right of ways.  We will work to notify you of any service issues as soon as we are aware of them.

• Pump Station 2: You can expect to see work begin on Pump Station 2 (located in the West parking lot of the Assembly of God Church) in March.

Please note that contractor schedules are dependent upon weather conditions and delivery of materials.

Recent project progress

• · In the last two weeks, approximately 700 feet of pipe have been laid within the SR 3 right of way.
• Surveying at the site of the new wastewater treatment plant has been completed.

What can you expect during construction?

• Equipment noise, active truck traffic, dust and mud. We will try to minimize dust and mud in the roadways, but drivers can expect some dust and mud at times.

• Safety is our priority. You will notice flaggers at active construction sites. Please keep yourself and children a safe distance from the construction trenches and equipment.  Hardhats and vests are required in all construction areas. Emergency vehicles will always have access to your property; we will do our best to ensure you are able to get in and out of your homes and businesses efficiently.

• When crews are not on site, a combination of steel plates, fencing, signs and cones will be used to close off construction areas.

• Unforeseen, temporary utility and/or water interruptions are possible. We will work to notify you of any service issues as soon as we are aware of them.

If you have any immediate questions or concerns, please call our 24-hour project hotline at 360-801-2482.

Contact us:

E-mail: info@masoncountywastewater.com

Visit: www.masoncountywastewater.com
Phone: 360-801-2482

frankkenny Belfair

Event: Merlot & Music Fundraising Event for Mason County Literacy

Date: Friday, February 19th

Time: 5PM – 9PM

Location: Top of the Cork, 18351 E State Rte 3, Allyn WA

Details:

The fundraising event will include tastings of wines from the philanthropic wine makers of McGavick Winery, hors d’ oeuvres and live music.  Music is being graciously provided by Lars Fisher, a local musician who opened on the 2009 Mason County Fair Main Stage and also plays with the “Old Time Fiddlers.”  Proceeds from purchases of tickets and McGavick Wines will go to Mason County Literacy.

Cost:

Those who wish to attend must purchase a ticket by calling Mason County Literacy in Shelton at 360-426-9733, Top of the Cork in Allyn at (360) 275-5657 or Lennard K’s Boat House Restaurant and Bar in Allyn at (360) 275-6060. Tickets are limited and cost $20 advance purchase or $25 the day of the event.
The mission of Mason County Literacy is to provide the skills and services necessary for learners to achieve meaningful participation in a literate society and to encourage the self-confidence and imagination to use those tools for the benefit of self, family, and the communities served by Mason County Literacy.

frankkenny Belfair

Dear Friend,

Sunrise Equine Rescue is a non-profit organization located in Grapeview, Washington, Mason County.   We are a registered non-profit organization with the  primary purpose of helping horses that have been abandoned, neglected or abused and relocate them from their unhealthy environment into a healthy, healing one.
Through the help of Sunrise Stables who donates space for keeping horses, several veterinarians and farrier’s who offer their services at a reduced rate, and many volunteers we are able to offer a healthy  home to a horse in need. Volunteers offer daily service to the animals making sure they receive the proper amount of feed and necessary supplements.           It isn’t long before we have an animal that is starting to look healthy and is ready for a mental evaluation. Trained volunteers work with our rescue horses and evaluate them, based on this assessment the volunteers work with the horses on a regular bases preparing them for new owners. It is the most rewarding feeling to rescue a sad underweight and/or abused horse, watch it become healthy see the light come back into their eyes and place it in a new home that will take proper care of it for the rest of it’s life.

With the economic times such a burden we see more abandoned horses each month.  Animal care is expensive, proper nutrition and training costs money. We are grateful for all donations; services, hay, feed and money which if applicable are 100% tax deductible please consult your accountant.  100 % of the donations go to the care of the horses.

Please check out our web site sunriseequinerescue.com and see what a loving environment can accomplish.

We sincerely thank you for your interest in Sunrise equine Rescue.

Sincerely,

Sheila Christiansen

Sheila Christiansen

Treasurer/Sunrise Equine Rescue

Located at: Sunrise Stables Riding and Boarding Facility
401 E Mason Benson Road, Grapeview, WA 98546
Mailing address: P.O. Box 2427, Belfair, WA 98528

frankkenny Belfair

What’s the Latest Buzz about the Westsound Business Expo?
Putt and Win $10,000!! Stop by the North Mason Chamber of Commerce booth and join in the excitement! It’s true! – the Chamber is partnering with Lucky Lady Interactive Events, a chamber member out of Seattle, to offer this exciting putt-off on the show floor. One lucky putter will have a shot of winning $10,000 by sinking a 50-foot putt — cash! The only cost is your business card. Putter provided! Call Stephanie Horton for more information at 360-275-6258.

frankkenny Belfair Westsound Business Expo

PUGET SOUND CHALLENGE 2010

PRESS RELEASE

The Olympic Kayak Club is excited to announce that we are now accepting registrations for the 2010 Puget Sound Challenge.  The 2010 Puget Sound Challenge is an approximately 150 nautical mile paddle that will go from Port Townsend to Olympia with the final paddle going into Allyn. The Puget Sound Challenge is broken up into 13 segments. To see a description of each segment, please go to www.olympickayakclub.com .  The goal of the Puget Sound Challenge is to raise money for the water trails of Washington. The two groups we support directly are The Washington Water Trails Associations and the North Kitsap Trails Association “North Kitsap’s String of Pearls” water trail.
Participants can paddle any segment, or segments, anytime or all segments in one long trip. The challenge is to complete the entire course in one year. You can do this as an individual or with a group like a paddling club or kayak shop. The Olympic Kayak Club will have a scheduled course of all the segments that everyone is welcome to join us on.  A copy of the scheduled segments with the Olympic Kayak Club is posted on the www.olympickayakclub.com site.

frankkenny Belfair

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Mason County Literacy to Hold a “Merlot & Music” Fundraising Event February 19th

Shelton, WA, February 8, 2010 – Mason County Literacy is excited to announce their next wine tasting fundraiser event, “Merlot & Music!”  The event will be held Friday February 19^th at the “Top of the Cork” tasting room in Allyn, WA.  The fundraising event will include tastings of wines from the philanthropic wine makers of McGavick Winery, hors d oeuvres and live music.

“We are appreciative of our partnership with Top of the Cork,” says Kris Smock, Executive Director, “recognizing the upcoming funding challenges, our business partners are critical to continuing our services.  In this economy we expect to see an increased need for services as the job market gets more competitive.” Smock went on to say, “We know that adults with low levels of literacy have the hardest time getting a job, and often are the first to lose a job.  Underprepared workers, their employers and the community overall tangibly benefit from improved literacy skills.”

McGavick Wines are locally produced in Grapeview, WA.  “At Top of the Cork, we seek out unique high quality local offerings.” said George Kenny, Co-Owner Diane Aries added “This is a rare and wonderful opportunity that pairs philanthropy with a superb local wine and in doing so benefits members of our community.”

When it came to music for the event, Marty Brush from Marty’s Music, right next door to Top of the Cork contacted Lars Fisher, a local musician who opened on the 2009 Mason County Fair Main Stage and also plays with the “Old Time Fiddlers.” Lars is graciously donating his time and talent to the event.

Those who wish to attend must purchase a ticket by calling Mason County Literacy in Shelton at 360-426-9733, Top of the Cork in Allyn at (360) 275-5657 or Lennard K’s Boat House Restaurant and Bar in Allyn at (360) 275-6060. Tickets are limited and cost $20 advance purchase or $25 the day of the event.

For more information about the free adult literacy programs offered by Mason County Literacy contact Tammey at 360-426-9733 in Shelton or in Belfair by calling 360-471-3060.

About Top of the Cork:  Having traveled extensively up and down the west coast for many years doing carving shows, George Kenny along with Diane decided it would make a great addition to the Bear in a Box chainsaw business to open a wine tasting business. The wine history here is deep and no local place to sample, so Top of the Cork was born, Great Northwest wines and gifts are featured.

About Mason County Literacy: The mission of Mason County Literacy is to provide the skills and services necessary for learners to achieve meaningful participation in a literate society and to encourage the self-confidence and imagination to use those tools for the benefit of self, family, and the communities served by

Mason County Literacy.

Contact:

Tammey Newton

tnewton@masoncountyliteracy.org

(360)426-9733

www.masoncountyliteracy.org

frankkenny Belfair

Edition 4, February 8, 2010

The Belfair Wastewater and Water Reclamation Facilities Project continues construction on conveyance and at the water reclamation facility. To keep the community informed about construction activities, we are sending regular construction e-mails to let you know where and when contractors will be working and to give you updates on project progress. These notices are also posted to the project Web site .

Upcoming activities

• Beginning Monday night, the prime contractor will have two crews on SR 3 installing the mainline sewer. One crew will begin work near Clifton Road and progress north while the other will keep working on SR 3 near Belfair Street. Hours of nighttime work will be approximately 7 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. During this work, you can expect single-lane closures along SR 3 and flaggers directing traffic.
Locations of road closures will move as the contractor completes initial trenching and dewatering, installs pipes, and moves to the next segment of pipe.

• Survey work will continue in preparation for construction at the wastewater reclamation facility site east of Belfair.

• Crews will continue working on the boring pit at the intersection of SR 3 and SR 300 in preparation for installing pipes northward from the boring pit. Pipes will be installed using trenchless methods, using a technique called jack and bore. The pit has been used for approximately two weeks, with a total duration of use of four to six weeks.

• On an ongoing basis, crews are working to seek out existing underground utilities locations to avoid service interruptions. Please note that unforeseen, temporary utility and/or water interruptions are possible during construction work in existing rights-of-way. We will work to notify you of any service issues as soon as we are aware of them.

Please note that contractor schedules are dependent upon weather conditions and delivery of materials.

Recent project progress

• Night work began last week, beginning the installation of the main conveyance line.

• Surveying at the site of the new wastewater treatment plant is near completion.

• Excavation of the boring pit at SR 3 and SR 300 continued this week.

What can you expect during construction?

• Equipment noise, active truck traffic, dust and mud. We will try to minimize dust and mud in the roadways, but drivers can expect some dust and mud at times.

• Safety is our priority. You will notice flaggers at active construction sites. Please keep yourself and children a safe distance from the construction trenches and equipment. Hardhats and vests are required in all construction areas. Emergency vehicles will always have access to your property; we will do our best to ensure you are able to
get in and out of your homes and businesses efficiently.

• When crews are not on site, a combination of steel plates, fencing, signs and cones will be used to close off construction areas.

• Unforeseen, temporary utility and/or water interruptions are possible. We will work to notify you of any service issues as soon as we are aware of them.

If you have any immediate questions or concerns, please call our 24-hour project hotline at 360-801-2482.

Contact us:

E-mail: info@masoncountywastewater.com

Visit: www.masoncountywastewater.com

Phone: 360-801-2482

frankkenny Belfair

Join us for our next Relationship Builder Breakfast . . .

“Hands On Marketing – High Touch or High Tech?”
with Greg Oldham, Reid Real Estate
Past Chairman, North Mason Chamber of Commerce

Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Lennard K’s Boat House in Allyn 7:30am – 9:00am*

Local Realtor Greg Oldham had a good year. Yes, 2009 was good! If you would like to know why, join us for our popular marketing breakfast on February 9. Greg’s philosophy is all about building long-term relationships. Everyone says that, but what exactly does it mean? We’ve been learning a lot about internet social networking, but meeting people face to face is equally important. Keeping in contact. Making sure your name is the first one that comes to mind when your product or service is needed. It pays, that is for sure, but Greg will be the first one to tell you that it is equally rewarding.

Join us! And walk away with several simple ways you can make a lasting — make that LONG – lasting impression.

The North Mason Chamber of Commerce is proud to present these marketing breakfasts the second Tuesday of every month at Lennard K’s Boat House. Not a member? Join us twice, then let’s talk! There is no charge for the program, just for your breakfast.

This will be a popular session – please reserve your seat today!
Stephanie Horton is waiting to hear from you.
Stephanie@northmasonchamber.com or 360-275-6258

Please come at 7:30 to order a fabulous Lennard K’s breakfast; complimentary program at 8:00.

frankkenny Belfair

“GIVE ME SHELTER”

The Humane Society of Mason County is having a FUNdraising Event

An evening of finger-foods, music and auction. Show your community support, while bidding on trips, adventures, sports items, home furnishings and spa packages, artwork, resort room/dinner packages, wine tasting package, and homemade desserts.
Wine and beer available

Where: Beautiful Cady Lake Manor in Tahuya
When: April 10, 2010; 6-9PM
Why: Build a shelter for lost or abandoned pets, and partner with
Prison Pet Partnership Program
Cost: $20 per person, $160 per table for 8

All seats reserved, no tickets at the door. This is an adult evening.

Contact: Humane Society of Mason County at 275-9310, or come by the office in the Chamber of Commerce Building in Belfair.

frankkenny Belfair

The Federal Way Chamber of Commerce is opening a 14,000 square foot Business Incubator in Federal Way with a potential of 38 clients.  I have posted the following job announcement and wanted to pass it along to you all in case you have someone in your community that might fit this position well.  We have a great advisory group in place that has a lot of business startup and incubator experience and have most of the formal documents such as policies, procedures, etc., we just a person who is passionate about startups to take the leadership in the facility.  Please let me know if you have any questions.

Best wishes,

Tom Pierson, A.C.E.

Chief Executive Officer

Federal Way Chamber of Commerce

PO Box 3440

Federal Way, WA 98063

O: 253-838-2605 F: 253-661-9050

Web: www.federalwaychamber.com

SSRBI Executive Director (Federal Way, WA)

JOB TITLE: SSRBI Executive Director

DEPARTMENT: Business Incubator

REPORT TO: CEO of the Federal Way Chamber of Commerce WAGE CATEGORY: Exempt

JOB STATEMENT

The Director is responsible for: developing and establishing the South Sound Regional Business Incubator, overseeing the operations, development and implementation of programs and facility management.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/OBJECTIVES

• Identify, recruit and work with entrepreneurs and potential client companies.

• Develop, implement and manage business and technical assistance programs for clients.

• Assist in the development of business plans and risk assessments.

• Provide resources for incubator businesses.

• Deliver programs that encourage entrepreneurism, innovation, and business creation.

• Create a network of partners and resources for client companies including private companies, support organizations, lending institutions, venture capital and angel networks.

• Provide general guidance to clients.

• Manage SSRBI staff, operations and facilities.

• Track results, writes reports, applies for and administers grants.

• Develop and operate within a budget, execute business plan, meet cash flow projections.

• Plan events that foster networking among clients and outside sources.

• Other duties as assigned by Board of Directors (BOD).

JOB SPECIFICATIONS

1. Strong entrepreneur/business experience 2. Knowledge of nonprofits 3. Proven grant writing and fundraising results 4. Some financial reporting 5. Excellent outreach and networking skills 6. Ability to maintain confidentiality 7. Outstanding verbal, writing and presentation skills 8. Self starter/self sufficient 9. Strong team building and organizational skills 10. Successful at coalition building 11. Familiarity with government funding a plus 12. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment 13. Ability to handle a varied work schedule

APPLICATION

Please include the following:

• Letter of Interest

• Resume

• 3 Professional References

Please send your information either of the following ways:

• Email: tomp@federalwaychamber.com

• Mail: PO Box 3440, Federal Way, WA 98063 • In Person: 31919 1st Avenue S. Ste. 202, Federal Way

Applications are due by 3:00pm (Pacific Time) on January 29, 2010

QUESTIONS

Contact Tom Pierson at 253-838-2605 or tomp@federalwaychamber.com

frankkenny Belfair

NMSD Selected as Business of the Year

On Saturday evening, the North Mason Chamber of Commerce presented NMSD the award of 2009 Business of the Year. There are 430 (or so) businesses and organizations that are members of the Chamber, all of which were eligible for selection. The Chamber selected us. It was a wonderful honor to stand with NMSD Board Members Mike Gaudio, Art Wightman, and John Campbell as last year’s winner, Jerry Reid, made the formal presentation.

The reasons are many. Our contribution to our local economy and our charitable giving are, of course, important to the Chamber of Commerce. Our “shop locally” attitude, especially in terms of our capital levy work and other vendor selections, is also significant to the Chamber. We make an effort to work with local companies, stores, and other vendors whenever possible, and it is noticed in a big way. Also influential to the Chamber are the dramatic improvements in our public image, improvements in academic achievement, our recent election successes, and more.

This is a big deal, and we are very proud to be recognized by our Chamber of Commerce. Our staff and leadership have been, and continue be working hard on improving the success of students and support of families. To have this work noticed and acknowledged by the community leaders of the NM Chamber is one more step in our continuing effort to Build the Pride.

David Peterson, Superintendent

North Mason School District

frankkenny Belfair

admin Belfair

admin Belfair

NOBODY HURT

At about 6:10 this morning, one of our buses was struck by a pickup truck. The bus (B-28) was heading out to pick up kids, so only the driver was on board. There were no injuries. Our driver, Bill Geyer, is completely fine and on his way for the mandatory drug test that law requires for any driver following a collision. We quickly rerouted another bus to pick up Bill’s kids, and the students got to school within five minutes of the usual time.

The collision took place on HWY 3, in front of Les Schwab Tires. The bus sustained some damage to the left quarter panel. State Patrol arrived quickly and conducted the investigation. The driver of the pickup was cited at the scene for failure to yield.

David

David Peterson, Superintendent

North Mason School District

frankkenny Belfair

Event Name:  ShrimpFest

Event Dates:   May 29^th & 30^th, Saturday 10-6, Sunday 10-5

Event Location:  Downtown Brinnon – off Highway 101 at approx. milepost 307 – on the north side of the Dosewallips River

Website:  http://www.emeraldtowns.org/shrimpfest.htm

Event Sponsors:  Emerald Towns Alliance

Event Description:  ShrimpFest is a Memorial Weekend seafood festival.  We have craft and food booths, belt sander races, exhibits, live music, children’s activities and so much more.  Bring along your favorite decorated belt sander and try your luck in the race (both days at 12:00PM). The tides are usually low enough during this weekend for easy harvest of clams and oysters on the public beaches near the festival and the weather is traditionally good during this holiday weekend. This is great family fun and it’s FREE too!  Proceeds from ShrimpFest 2010 will to be donated to community projects.

If you require additional information, please email me at shrimpfest@embarqmail.com or call me at 360.796.0550.    In my absence, my co-chair, Wendy Hogan can be reached at 360.796.3449.

Doug Peterson

Publicity Chair

Emerald Towns Alliance

frankkenny Belfair

WHAT: 12^th annual fundraiser for the Allyn Community Association.  The event this year is a Mardi Gras themed event with proceeds going to help fund projects within the community of Allyn.  Some of the projects that benefit from your donations are; publication of the North Bay Review and beautification for our community.

WHEN: Saturday, February 6, 2010 beginning at 4:30 p.m.

WHERE: The Victor Improvement Club Hall located on Highway 302, in Victor

SPONSORSHIP: Allyn Community Association

INFORMATION: This years event will begin at 4:30 p.m. with a social hour and silent auction.  Beginning at 5:00 a dinner of baked ziti, garlic bread, salad and desert is being prepared by our gentlemen chefs, who are ACA members and local volunteers.  The event is also BYOB with mixer set-ups supplied, along with coffee and tea. The silent auction will conclude at 6:15, at which time everyone in attendance will have a chance to win some or this years great door prizes.  This year we are introducing our auction team of Mike and Helen Lester, who have their business in Allyn.  Be prepared for a lively event, and watch the Mardi Gras beads fly.  Our live auction will begin at 6:30.  End the evening by dancing to the music of Stan Yantis and his band until 10:30 p.m.

So come early, there will be festive masks for those who want to purchase them and join in with the fun that is always at the Mardi-Gras.

Tickets are available this year at the following locations:  Lennard K’s, Windermere Real Estate, Kitsap Bank, Allyn Hair and Bodyworks and Farmers Insurance and Financial Services Lester Agency all located in downtown Allyn.

CONTACT PERSON: Tickets and information regarding this event can also be gotten from Marta Buran at 360-277-4477, ricksfoundart@yahoo.com., Event Chair, Allyn Community Association.  Donations are always welcome.

The Allyn Community Association is a 501-C-3 non-profit organization, IRS Tax

#91-1337682.

frankkenny Belfair

Environmental Restoration at

Union River Preserve in Belfair

Winter/Spring 2010 Dates:
January 30 from 10 AM to 1 PM

March 6 from 10 AM to 1 PM

Where: Union River Nature Preserve in Belfair, WA, see directions below

What to bring: Boots, work clothes, gloves, rain gear, and a water bottle. Snacks, drinks, and tools provided.

Activity: Tree planting and invasive weed removal

About the site:
Cascade Land Conservancy’s Union River Preserve is a 57-acre site near the mouth of the Union River at Hood Canal. The property was purchased in 2006 with a grant from the Wildlife Forever Foundation.  Summer Chum, Coho, and Steelhead are present in Union River. Much of the Union River Estuary is in conservation ownership by Washington state agencies and local groups like Theler Wetlands.  CLC’s sister land trust, Great Peninsula Conservancy, owns 18.5 acres known as Klingel Wetlands. Forests of western red cedar, red alder, and lush herbs cover much of the property. Old pasture and orchards are a testament to the property’s agricultural history.

Directions to the site:

• Take Highway 3 to Belfair
• Turn north onto old Belfair Highway.
• At the first four way stop, head west onto State Road 300.
• Cross Union River and take the next right at the PUD station onto Union River Road.
• Take an immediate left into the PUD gravel parking area.

For more information and to register for this event contact volunteer@cascadeland.org.

frankkenny Belfair

Edition 1, January 15, 2010

We’re under construction! You may have seen, or will begin to see, construction equipment and contractors around Belfair as Ceccanti, Inc. begins active work on the conveyance line system (pipes and pump stations) and Boss Construction turns the dirt on the new wastewater treatment plant east of Belfair. In its entirety, construction of this project is expected to be approximately 18 months in duration.

Upcoming activities

• Nighttime roadwork, including single-lane closures, along SR 3 is expected to begin next week (week of January 18). Locations of road closures will move as the contractor completes initial trenching and dewatering, installs pipes, and moves to the next segment of pipe. Two crews will be actively working along SR 3, one heading north, another heading south.
• During the day, crews will be readying equipment and supplies for this nighttime work along SR 3.
• Preliminary work on Pump Station #2 may begin during the week of January 18 behind the Belfair Assembly of God Church. This will include excavation of soil to ready for foundation work of the pump station.

Please note that contractor schedules are dependent upon weather conditions and delivery of materials.

Recent project progress

• Along SR 3, preventative environmental systems are being tested and installed in certain areas to prevent soil and water runoff. These include silt fencing, and “straw waddles.”  Straw waddles are made of compressed straw, placed along the edge of construction sites to filter stormwater and trap sediment. This is an environmental best management practice used to protect groundwater near construction sites.  Initial “dewatering” to test the water table levels is also underway.

• A boring pit has been excavated at the intersection of SR 3 and SR 300. From this launching point, pipes will be installed using trenchless methods, using a technique called jack and bore (moving northward along SR 3). The contractor will likely use the pit for approximately four to six weeks.
• At the water reclamation facility (treatment plant) site east of SR 3, clearing the site of all brush and trees is nearing completion, stormwater controls are being installed, and Boss Construction is mobilizing for excavation of the site.

What can you expect during construction?

• Equipment noise, active truck traffic, dust and mud. We will try to minimize dust and mud in the roadways, but drivers can expect some dust and mud at times.

• Safety is our priority. You will notice flaggers at active construction sites. Please keep yourself and children a safe distance from the construction trenches and equipment.  Hardhats and vests are required in all construction areas. Emergency vehicles will always have access to your property; we will do our best to ensure you are able to get in and out of your homes and businesses efficiently.
  • When crews are not on site, a combination of steel plates, fencing, signs and cones will be used to close off construction areas.
  • Unforeseen, temporary utility and/or water interruptions are possible. We will work to notify you of any service issues as soon as we are aware of them.

Would you like to continue to receive information?

To keep the community informed about construction activities, we will be sending regular construction e-mails to let you know where and when contractors will be working and to give you updates on project progress. These notices will also be posted to the project Web site.

If you have any immediate questions or concerns, please call our 24-hour project hotline at 360-801-2482.

Contact us:

E-mail: info@masoncountywastewater.com

Visit: www.masoncountywastewater.com
Phone: 360-801-2482

NOTE: You are receiving this e-mail because you have attended a project open house, event, or have asked to receive project information. If you would like to be removed from future e-mails related to the Belfair Wastewater and Water Reclamation Facilities Project, please reply to this e-mail with “Unsubscribe” in the subject line.

frankkenny Belfair Belfair, sewer

To Interested Community Members:

Hawkins Middle School would like to extend an invitation to interested community members to become a mentor for a middle school student.

We are looking for volunteers who:

·        Have the desire to be positive role model in the lives of boys and girls, ages 11-14;

·        Have the ability to connect and build positive and supportive relationships; and

·        Can commit to 1 hour per week between the hours of 7:35 AM – 2:20PM.

Volunteers will need to:

·        Complete a volunteer application

·        Complete a background check (free)

·        Attend the free Mentor Training Night on Monday, February 8, 2010, 6:30-8:00 PM in the Hawkins Middle School Library. Dinner will be provided.  RSVP is requested.

To RSVP or for more information, please contact Sarah Parnell (HMS School Counselor) at (360) 277-2130.

frankkenny Belfair

NEWS RELEASE

SEATTLE PRESS OFFICE

Release Date:  January 14, 2010                                Media Contact: Carol Andersen (206) 553-7315

Release Number: SDOPR 10-07                                 Internet Address: www.sba.gov/wa

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Your Year for Small Business?

Shelton – It’s a new year, the economy is improving.  Is this the right time to start or expand your small business?

The answers to this and other questions about small business start-up and expansion, particularly about financing a small business, will be explored Wednesday, January 20, during a noon-hour seminar at Our Community Credit Union, 2948 Olympic Hwy. North, Shelton.

The seminar is sponsored by the Economic Development Council of Mason County.  Presenters include Erik Stewart, a certified business counselor with the Aberdeen Small Business Development Center, and Roger Hopkins, business development specialist from the U.S. Small Business Administration, Seattle District Office.  They will talk about financing options, SBA loan requirements, and the assistance that is available for preparing a business plan and a loan proposal.

Those interested in attending should contact Jennifer at the Mason County EDC, 360‐426‐2276 or Jennifer@masonedc.com.

The WSBDC is part of a national network of counseling and training centers partially funded through the SBA.  The SBA is a federal agency providing financial and business development assistance to beginning and expanding small businesses.

# # #

frankkenny Belfair

Introducing NMSD’s New Policy/Procedure Search Capability

Like most districts, NMSD has a very thick policy manual. It is often difficult to find the specific policy or procedure that addresses a particular issue. We have made searching our policies and procedures much, much easier. Through a collaboration with TransAct and the Washington Association of School Administrators, the NMSD has loaded all district policies, procedures and master contracts (bargaining agreements), into a fully searchable system

Say, for example, you want to know our policies relating to graduation. With three quick clicks of your mouse and typing the word “graduation,” you will get a list of all 26 places where the word appears in our policies and procedures. You can then quickly scan the list to find the right policy to answer your question.

Click here to be directed to the TransAct website (you can also get there from our web site).  Enter the username public@nmsd.wednet.edu and the password public.  Once in, you will see a file folder titled “North Mason Resources” in the upper left corner. Click the folder to open. From there you can choose to search in District Policies or Bargaining Agreements or both. To search, type your key word(s) into the blue “Search Here” box.

I think you’ll find this to be helpful and easy to use. Please call the NMSD Administration Office at (360) 277-2300 if you have any questions or need help with this feature – or if you have suggestions of other documents we should add to TransAct.

David Peterson, Superintendent

frankkenny Belfair

http://pingrealestate.blogspot.com/2010/01/december-2009-mason-county-residential.html

frankkenny Belfair

We continue to be busy on the capital improvements our community generously supported by passing last year’s capital levy. We are also adding significant energy improvements to our work through our successful competitive grant application that is providing $170,000 in state funds for the upgrades.

NMHS/HMS Exterior Repair: After discussion and polling of students and staff, we have selected the “split face concrete masonry unit (CMU) block” to resurface the high school and middle school exteriors. Lead architect Ray Mow and the folks at Erickson McGovern Architects are moving forward on the final specifications and preparing bid documents for the selection of the contractor. Work on the exterior is scheduled to start this spring, with work on the windows and repairs to interior damage to be completed during summer, 2010.

Work is progressing on the Belfair Elementary sewer connection and the energy efficiency project that is being supported by a state grant. We are also beginning our security upgrade planning and continue to work on expanding our school bus parking area.

Completed Work To Date

• Four portable classrooms installed, wired, furnished, ramped, and occupied.

• Water heater at Belfair Elementary replaced
• Berms removed from NMHS and HMS, sod, pipes and sidewalks repaired
• Hawkins Gym roof partially replaced (project is complete)
• District kitchen roof replaced
• Maintenance building roof resurfaced
• HMS boiler installed (although work continues to stabilize heating. Not yet “complete” in terms of adjustments and modifications for full effectiveness and efficiency)
• Fresh water well pumps (2) on main campus replaced
• Fresh and grey water pumps replaced at Sand Hill Elementary

For a full description of our progress on the capital levy project, go to our web site, www.nmsd.wednet.edu, and select “Capital Projects” under the “About Us” tab.

frankkenny Belfair

Happy New Year!

We are working to start a Toastmasters Club in North Mason. We will hold a series of informational meetings on the 1st/3rd Thursday of the month, beginning 1-7-2010, 6pm at the NM Chamber office. The informational meetings are the beginning of starting a new club and are a bit more informal, but will help you get the feel for what happens at an actual club meeting.

Toastmasters is a great tool for speakers of all levels of experience, and a safe place to practice an upcoming presentation, or to just become more comfortable at speaking in front of groups. More importantly, it will help you get those butterflies to fly in formation.

We hope you will check it out. For more about Toastmasters, visit www.toastmasters.org.

Tam
http://www.p3-positivepeoplepower.vpweb.com

admin Belfair Toastmasters

Beginning January 1, 2010 all Environmental Health forms, payments and permit applications will be accepted at Mason County Public Health in Mason County Building 8, 415 North 6^th Street, Shelton. Public Health moved into Building 8 earlier this year, combining Environmental Health and Community and Family Health into the lower level of the building at the corner of 6^th and Alder in Shelton.

Environmental Health fees will not be changing for 2010; but payment of those fees will need to be separated out from building permits, pre-application conferences and other applications where Planning, Building and Environmental Health fees were previously combined. There will now be one form required for Environmental Health permits and a separate one required by Community Development for building permits.

Most application forms are available online and will be available at the front counter in Mason County Building 8. Select Environmental Health forms will also be available just inside the door at the Permit Assistance Center in Building 3.

Environmental Health Staff will be on hand at the Permit Assistance Center for a couple of weeks into the New Year to assist customers and help with a smooth transition into the new process.  Customers may start using the new Environmental Health permit system now by bringing their Environmental Health applications, payments, etc to Building 8 at 415 North 6^th Street for processing. They may also phone Environmental Health at county extension 400 to be directed to a specific program.  Thank you for your patience and assistance during the transition.

For more information contact Debbie Riley, Environmental Health Manager by email at dlr@co.mason.wa.us or by phone at (360) 427-9670 EXT 358 or from Belfair (360) 275-4467 EXT 358.

frankkenny Belfair

admin Belfair

Chamber Hosts Legislative Reception

On Tuesday, January 5^th the Port Orchard Chamber of Commerce will host a Pre- Legislative Session Reception with WA State Legislators from the 26^th and the 35^th Districts.  Senators Kilmer and Sheldon, Representatives Seaquist, Haigh, Angel and Finn have accepted invitations to attend.

The Reception will begin at 5:30pm and will be held at the Port Orchard Pavilion 701 Bay St., a new venue in downtown Port Orchard on the corner of Bay St. and Frederick St.   There will be a social time with refreshments; each of the legislators will speak briefly; and there will be time for questions .

Legislators have told us South Kitsap residents and businesses from our community are rather ‘silent’ and the local legislators would like to communicate with or engage this community to a greater extent.  The Port Orchard Chamber of Commerce is committed to having a stronger voice with our government officials; advocating for small business; disseminating more legislative information; and working to engage business people and community residents in the public policy process.

There is no cost to attend the reception and reservations are not required, however an RSVP to the Chamber at 360-876-3505 is appreciated.  Plan on attending this reception prior to the start of what will be another very difficult and momentous WA State Legislative session. For more information about the event or the Chamber’s Legislative Committee please contact Patti Kirkpatrick at 360-876-4407 or pkirkpatrick@cityofportorchard.us

frankkenny Belfair

AFTER HOURS 2010

January – 2 Margaritas, Allyn
February – Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club, Union
March – Union Square Businesses and Hood Canal Communications
April -  Always Elegance Photography and The Graphics Ranch, Fay Marley-Clarke’s studio on South Shore
May- Theler Trails, Belfair
June- Ayers Auto Body, Allyn
July – Small Business Showcase
August – Arnold and Smith Insurance Agency, Inc.
September – Peninsula Paving, location tba
October – Shelton Mason County Journal, location tba
November – The Selah Inn, Belfair

December – Olympia Federal Savings, Grand Opening & Christmas Party in Belfair

12/18/09

frankkenny Belfair

This is from Frank Kenny’s blog. The post includes 6 action steps to take right now to improve your personal brand.

http://frankkenny.net/2009/12/20/personal-branding-using-social-networking/

admin Belfair

Join us for our next Relationship Builder Breakfast . . .

“Marketing on Social Networking Sites….

I’m logged on . . . now what?”

featuring Frank Kenny, President/CEO

North Mason Chamber of Commerce

Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Lennard K’s Boat House in Allyn 7:30am – 9:00am*

We hear it every day – “Social Networking is HUGE!” – and your Chamber is proud to be part of the excitement! More than 150 of our members are already busily networking, posting announcements, and connecting on our very own social networking site, MYNO, as well as on Twitter and Facebook. Join us for this educational session with Frank Kenny – we want to help you maximize your presence online. If you are a chamber member, please log on to MYNO prior to this session. Feel free to bring your laptop!

The North Mason Chamber of Commerce is proud to present these marketing breakfasts the second Tuesday of every month at Lennard K’s Boat House. Non-chamber members are welcome to join us twice for these sessions. There is no charge for the program, just for your breakfast!

This will be a popular session – please reserve your seat today!

E-mail Stephanie Horton

Stephanie@northmasonchamber.com or 360-275-6258.

Please come at 7:30 to order breakfast; complimentary program at 8:00

frankkenny Belfair

The North Mason Chamber is looking for a team leader.

The North Mason Relay For Life is officially underway! This years event theme is Relay Like a Rock Star and the event will be held June 11-12 at North Mason High School. …But the fun is already started with many Relay team fund-raisers, activities and Relay Rallies already scheduled.

The American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life is a community gathering where everyone can participate in the fight against cancer. Teams of people camp out at North Mason High School and take turns walking or running around the track throughout out the night and into the next day. When they aren’t walking they take part in fun activities and local entertainment. The event runs all night – because cancer never sleeps.

If you have been touched by cancer and are interested in starting a team with the North Mason Chamber of Commerce, please contact our Team Development Chair, Cassandra Hoffman, 360-275-2829 or CHoffman@farmersagent.com.

frankkenny Belfair

Fire District 5 Holding Meeting on Purchase of Medic One

admin Belfair

North Mason Little League sign ups.

January 9th @ 10am-3pm Belfair Timberland Library

January 13th @ 6pm-8pm Belfair Timberland Library

January 21st @ 6pm-8pm Belfair QFC

January 30th @ 10am-3pm Belfair Timberland Library

frankkenny Belfair

Belfair Scentsy Consultant Celebrates Company’s Remarkable Growth

Belfair, WA (Grassroots Newswire) December 15, 2009 – After just five years in business, Scentsy, Inc. is proving that a simple and authentic business strategy can translate into profitable growth.

The company, which offers scented, wickless candles through a Party Plan system, now has more than 50,000 independent consultants throughout the United States, Puerto Rico, Guam, and Canada. Scentsy is celebrating its fifth year anniversary and its remarkable growth since starting on a small Idaho sheep farm in 2004.

“In a short amount of time, Scentsy has proven that it has the product value and quality people are seeking in today’s market,” said Leslie Davies, Belfair resident and local independent consultant for the company.
“Personally, I find it quite comforting to be affiliated with a company that has experienced so much growth in the midst of these troubling economic times.”

Scentsy’s growth earned it the distinction of receiving the Direct Selling Association’s 2009 Rising Star Award, which recognizes companies that dedicate themselves to achieving a high standard of excellence in business operations. The company is averaging 300 percent growth in revenue and number of independent Consultants, and is projecting 2009 sales of nearly
$195 million.

“Our rise from a small, family-owned business into one of the country’s most emerging home décor brands is certainly not something that we take for granted,” said John Curtis, Communications Vice President for Scentsy.
“We recognize our success is due, in part, to our devoted customers in communities like the Belfair area, who recognize the unique nature of our products.”

To celebrate the company’s 5th year anniversary, Scentsy held its “Giving Back Makes Scents” event in July, which was designed to share the company’s success with local small businesses. As part of the program, 1,000 Scentsy employees, suppliers and family members, collectively armed with $100,000, contributed $2,500 in sales revenue to each of 40 family-owned businesses in the Treasure Valley area, where the company is based.

“Research shows that dollars spent at community-based merchants create a multiplier effect in the local economy, so it seemed fitting that Scentsy, once a small business itself, chose to celebrate its success in this manner,” added Davies.

Davies offers a variety of scented, wickless candles in decorative ceramic warmers through a personal website or by hosting home parties in the Belfair area. Davies adds that home parties have become a popular way for local residents to entertain family and friends, and this trend has had an overall positive impact on the growth of the Scentsy brand.

For more information, please contact Leslie Davies at ladavies62@juno.com.

About Scentsy
Scentsy, Inc. is a rapidly growing party plan company offering a variety of scented, wickless candles heated in decorative ceramic warmers. The simplicity and value of its products provide a better alternative to burning wicked candles in the home and office. What began in 2004 in a 40-foot ocean container, on a small sheep farm, is now an international company, headquartered in Meridian, Idaho. Scentsy is growing 300 percent annually with more than 50,000 independent consultants in the United States, Puerto Rico, Guam and Canada. Visit us at www.scentsy.net.

frankkenny Belfair

PUBLIC NOTICE

December 14, 2009

Belfair Water District #1 will be holding a special meeting on December 21, 2009 at 2:30pm. This meeting is to consider filling Commissioner vacancy. The public is welcome to attend. The special meeting will be held at our office located @ NE 22451 Hwy 3, Belfair WA 98528.

If you have any questions, please contact our office @ (360)275-3008 or by email – bwdoffice@hctc.com

frankkenny Belfair

Belfair, WA (Grassroots Newswire) December 7, 2009 – Cassandra Hoffman, Farmers Insurance agent in Belfair, has completed the Insurance Agent Career Accelerator Course at the University of Farmers.

The University of Farmers training facility, located in Agoura Hills, California, was officially dedicated November 3, 2006. Farmers CEO Robert Woudstra noted that the University is national in scope, and offers training to Farmers’ 15,000 agents and their staff, 500 district managers and 10,000 claims staff year round.

“Cassandra completed the Agency Accelerator course designed for the Farmers agent to learn best practice methods surrounding staffing, business management, marketing, and sales,” explained Annette Thompson, senior vice president of Farmers. “This curriculum is built for top performing Farmers agents and it gives each agent a solid understanding of the various issues he or she faces in their agency every day,” she said.

“It allows Farmers agents to build on their knowledge in providing the best Commercial, Financial Products and advanced Life products that Farmers has to offer,” Thompson added.

frankkenny Belfair

admin Belfair

admin Belfair

admin Belfair

• Dec 8 – Relationship Builder Breakfast – Lennard K’s in Allyn (7:30am)
• Dec 10 – After Hours Holiday Event – Theler Center (5-7pm)
• Happy Holidays! No Membership Luncheon this month
• Jan 8 – Social Networking Class with Frank Kenny – Chamber Office (noon)
• Jan 12 – Relationship Builder Breakfast – Lennard K’s in Allyn (7:30am)
• Jan 14 – After Hours Event – location TBD (5-7pm)
• Jan 23 – Annual Installation GALA – Alderbrook Resort (5pm)
• Jan 27 – Membership Luncheon – Theler Center (11:30-1pm)
• Feb 5 – Social Networking Class with Frank Kenny – Chamber Office (noon)
• Feb 9 – Relationship Builder Breakfast – Lennard K’s in Allyn (7:30am)
• Feb 11 – After Hours Event – location TBD (5-7pm)
• Feb 24 – Membership Luncheon – Theler Center (11:30-1pm)

frankkenny Belfair

PING Real Estate Blogs: November 2009 Mason County Residential Sales Statistics.

frankkenny Belfair

Did you expect a Chainsaw?

The Top of the Cork is in Allyn, WA. George Kenny is the owner.

Ribbon Cutting November 27th, 2009

360-710-5250

admin Belfair

Would you please do all of us a favor? Shop Local first. Browse through local merchants and you will find everything you need for the Holidays. The money will recycle throughout the community, supporting the jobs and services we depend upon. Plus, it builds the local economy which completes the circle. Will you committ yourself to this?

admin Belfair

The Top of the Cork is Open!

New Chamber member George Kenny invites you to celebrate the opening of his new business – The Top of the Cork – with a Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening event on the day after Thanksgiving.  Join in the fun from 10:30 am – 6pm, with a Chamber of Commerce Welcome & Ribbon Cutting at 2:00pm.

The Top of the Cork features wine tasting of Northwest and local wines, smoked salmon, fresh cheeses, local crafts, gifts, and more.  The Top of the Cork is open now through Sunday, 11/29, from 11:00am-6pm (beat the holiday rush!), and every day throughout the holiday season.

Join your fellow chamber members as we welcome George and his exciting new business – and support another fabulous opportunity to Shop Local!  See you there!

For more information, call 360-275-9570.

frankkenny Belfair

Join us for our next Relationship Builder Breakfast . . .

“Sustaining business through the Holiday Season””

featuring Cathy Rivers

www.burgrivers.com

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Lennard K’s Boat House in Allyn    7:30am – 9:00am*

Have you ever experienced a tug-of-war between your business and personal lives during the holiday season? Join us for this inspiring breakfast featuring professional coach Cathy Rivers, a new chamber member from Olympia. Cathy works with small business owners, executives and individuals to create change in their lives, businesses and careers, through her company, Burg Rivers, LLC.  Cathy will walk us through a 5-step process to create success and enjoyment throughout the season and beyond. Walk away with energy and plans you can implement immediately.  Bring plenty of business cards!

The North Mason Chamber of Commerce is proud to present these marketing breakfasts the second Tuesday of every month at Lennard K’s Boat House.  Non-chamber members are welcome to join us twice for these sessions. There is no charge for the program, just for your breakfast!

Questions?

Please contact Stephanie Horton

Stephanie@northmasonchamber.com or 360-275-7370. See you there!

*no reservations necessary

frankkenny Belfair

Gratitude…The Secret Weapon of Great Marketers” will be the topic of the North Mason Chamber’s November Membership Luncheon.

Bob Ingram, our presenter, has achieved extraordinary success as a marketer in several arenas.

He has co-authored two books, Marketing By Delight and Your Ultimate Sales Force.  He teaches business-owners the keys to building strong relationships and soaring sales.

Bob is an accomplished Toastmaster, having won many awards and speech contests.

When not leading marketing seminars, writing, speaking, or selling, he can be found kayaking around the Puget Sound in his bright orange kayak.

Bob’s presentation for the North Mason Chamber is one not to be missed.  You’ll learn  lots of specific take-aways you can begin using immediately!  His presentation is titled Gratitude…the secret weapon of great marketers.

The North Mason Chamber of Commerce monthly luncheon begins at 11:30 on Wednesday, November 25, at the Theler Community Center in Belfair. We start with introductions at 11:45. Announcements and news immediately follows with the program beginning at 12:30.

Cost is $10 and reservations are not necessary.

Our monthly Shop Local winner’s name is drawn and new chamber members are introduced and welcomed. Everyone is invited to come and network with other local business owners. Chamber membership is not required.

frankkenny Belfair

December 4 – Social Networking Class with Frank Kenny at Chamber Office (noon)

December 8 – Relationship Builder Breakfast at Lennard K’s in Allyn (7:30am)

December 10 – Chamber After Hours Holiday Event at The Theler Center (5-7pm)

Happy Holidays! No Membership Luncheon this month.

January 8 – Social Networking Class with Frank Kenny at Chamber Offices (noon; usually first Friday)

January 12 – Relationship Builder Breakfast at Lennard K’s in Allyn (7:30am)

January 14 – Chamber After Hours Event – location to be determined (5-7pm)
January 27 – Chamber Membership Luncheon at The Theler Center  (11:30-1pm)

February 5 – Social Networking Class with Frank Kenny at Chamber Office (noon)

February 9 – Relationship Builder Breakfast at Lennard K’s in Allyn (7:30am)

February 11 – Chamber After Hours Event – location to be determined (5-7pm)

February 24 – Chamber Membership Luncheon at The Theler Center (11:30-1pm)

March 5 – Social Networking Class with Frank Kenny at Chamber Office (noon)

March 9 – Relationship Builder Breakfast at Lennard K’s in Allyn (7:30am)

March 11 – Chamber After Hours Event – Union Square businesses and Hood Canal Communications (5-7pm)

March 24 – Chamber Membership Luncheon at The Theler Center (11:30-1pm)

frankkenny Belfair

The U.S. Census Bureau is now accepting applications (and conducting tests) in the Tahuya/DeWatto and Union/Mason & Limerick Lakes areas.

This work will be part-time, temporary with flexible hours. Pay starts at $13,25/hour plus mileage. We’re hiring mainly Census Takers who will work in their community with duties including updating addresses, leaving questionnaires and sometimes conducting brief interviews.

Anyone over 18 with a valid driver’s license who might be interested in work should apply by calling our toll-free phone number: 1-866-861-2010 Because we have application/testing sessions scheduled now in this area, we urge everyone interested to call immediately!

Link to our Census jobs webpage (including Practice Test):
http://2010.census.gov/2010censusjobs/

Thank you for all your help in getting the word out about this employment opportunity!

George Brainerd
Recruiting Assistant, U.S. Census Bureau
(360) 389-2104
Silverdale Local Census Office
(360) 479-2104

frankkenny Belfair

Dear Frank,

Thank you for allowing me to present the program today.

Please tell your members that we have a great opportunity for local, low-income youth that:

• Provides up to 250 hours of paid internships at local businesses

• Encourages students to stay in or return to school

• Aids in acquiring vocational certificates, GEDs or high school diplomas for students

• Supervises workers in job skills, interviewing and resume writing

• Teaches students the skills needed to succeed in the world of work.

There is, of course, no cost to the businesses that participate.  Students must be ages 16-21.

If any of your members are interested, they can contact me directly at 360-463-7991.  Our office number in Shelton is 360-426-1200.  I look forward to working with them.  Yours, Dale

Dr. Dale McDaniel
567 E. Pointes Drive West
Harstene Island
Shelton, WA 98584
360-426-3021

frankkenny Belfair

The North Mason Chamber’s Shop Local committee will be handing out 200 reusable Shop Local bags at the annual North Mason Christmas Tree Lighting on Sunday, December 6 in Belfair. If you would like to include a coupon or other business building goody in the reusable shopping bags, please bring up to 200 of your items to the Chamber office by Friday, November 14.

The best hand-outs would be coupons that expire before Christmas. Other valuable items and branded marketing material is OK too.

The Shop Local committee, chaired by Rick Hlas of Scott McLendon’s Hardware will have a stuffing party at the Chamber. Call Rick at 360.275.0113 for date and time.

Thank You to Our Community Partners

frankkenny Belfair

MASON COUNTY WATER CONSERVANCY BOARD

Commissioners’ Conference Room

411 North 5^th Street, Shelton, WA

Commissioners:  George S. Sevier, Chair

Robert L. Gantenbein

Charles E. Buschbom

Alternate:            Larry Mahoney

County Advisor:  Emmett Dobey

MEETING NOTICE

The members of the Mason County Water Conservancy Board are seeking input on the availability of water resources to support the sustainable development of our community.  We will be conducting a 3-4 hour work session on November 19, 2009, to discuss a possible work program and the preparation of an application for grant funds from the Department of Ecology, to identify the location and capacity of both surface and underground sources of water in north and south Mason County.  Your ideas on whether we move forward with this effort are invaluable to us.

We would like to take this opportunity to cordially invite you to participate in our discussion.  The meeting will be held in the conference room of the Mason County Public Health Building located at 415 N. 6^th St., Shelton Washington, starting at 9:00 a.m.  We hope that you can help us with this important work effort.

George S. “Sam” Sevier, Chair

Mason County Water Conservancy Board

frankkenny Belfair

Are you interested in “shadowing” someone in a career to see what that job is REALLY like?

NM Chamber of Commerce has a number of businesses that are interested in having students come see first-hand what various jobs/careers are really like, what opportunities for business exist in our own community, & to share with you their career path: credit unions, hospitals, physical therapists, insurance agencies, publishers, chiropractors, state game/fisheries agents, financial advisors, fire districts, bed & breakfasts, architects, hardware/retail stores, real estate agencies, private counselors, public/non-profit/community enterprises, accountants or?  Students must be at least 16 years old to participate & need to provide their own transportation to/from the job site.

Stop by the Career Center to pick up a participation packet. If you don’t see a business on this list, tell me what type of business/industry you’re interested in shadowing & I’ll see if I can round up a site for you!

Contact the NMSD

frankkenny Belfair

admin Belfair

Do you want to be part of something very special?

Our membership has doubled in the past 18 months.

Join us.

admin Belfair

Bob Green, President WCCE

admin Belfair

Pumpkin catapult contest

frankkenny Belfair

Union’s recently named as one of the top 20 prettiest towns in America by Forbes Traveler magazine.

“Forbes Traveler convenes an expert panel of photographers, designers, travel writers and architects to name America’s 20 Prettiest towns for
2009.”

“As the sun casts its autumnal glow on thousands of picturesque U.S. cities and towns, it’s the perfect time to recognize the proverbial winners of the country’s civic-beauty contest.”

UNION, WA – click here for story

“‘There is something breathtaking about the way the Hood Canal winds its way through hills filled with thousands of evergreens,’ says Anderson of this enclave on the Kitsap Peninsula, in Washington’s Puget Sound. The town is inviting, the homes situated along the water’s edge are modest,  and the buildings are characteristic of the Pacific Northwest.”

frankkenny Belfair

This Sunday, kick off the holiday season in Union with a trio of special events and offers.

First, visit the Cameo Boutique for the tail end of their 27th annual Holiday Open House (6871 E State Route 106). Browse beautiful holiday decor and a fantastic wine selection and make sure you’re all set for holiday entertaining.

Then attend the free preview of Handel’s “Messiah” being presented by the Anna’s Bay Chorale at 4PM at the Nordstrom Great Hall, Harmony Hill Retreat Center (7362 E State Route 106). Learn about this beloved masterwork, meet the soloists, and purchase tickets to one of the three upcoming December performances.

Then visit the Robin Hood Restaurant & Pub (6790 E State Route 106) for a post-performance Sunday meal featuring locally grown organic produce at one of Union’s favorite dining spots.

In all, three great reasons to visit Union, all within a half mile of each other. More information on the whole array of fun events happening this weekend (including pumpkin catapults!) as part of Union’s PumpkinFest celebrations available by clicking the ad at right.

frankkenny Belfair

Harmony Hill at Xinh’s

Sunday, November 15^th, 5pm – 8pm

Xinh’s Clam & Oyster House in Shelton

Benefit for Harmony Hill Retreat Center

Join us for an exclusive evening with Xinh.  She and her staff will prepare an elaborate seafood buffet filled with her famous dishes.  Wine & beer hosted bar.  Cooking demonstration, raffles and other entertainment will top the night.

Xinh is a local and national celebrity having appeared on numerous programs on the Food Network. She is known for her oysters and other shellfish. In the past Xinh had been the chef for Harmony Hill’s auction and dinner. 2009 is the first year of Harmony Hill is having a dinner at Xinh’s restaurant.

$50 per person advance ticket orders / $55 at the door & space available.

To reserve your seats call 360.898.2363

frankkenny Belfair

NORTH MASON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:  Frank Kenny (360) 275-4267; frank@northmasonchamber.com

Oct 22^nd, 2009 – Belfair, WA – Frank Kenny, North Mason Chamber’s President/CEO, will be presenting at the Washington State Chamber of Commerce Executives (WCCE) Annual Conference on Thursday, October 29^th in Olympia. The conference attracts hundreds of chamber executives, staff, and board members from the 200 plus Chambers of Commerce in Washington State. Kenny, as a featured speaker, will have an hour and half to present on “Growing Your Organization with Internet Social Networking”. WCCE is the professional development association for Washington State Chamber professionals and their staff. For over 50 years, WCCE has been the leader in bringing information, resources and support to its members.

The North Mason Chamber has grown its membership from 210 in April 2008 to 415 as of October 22^nd, 2009. That is better than 95% membership growth in only 18 months, making the North Mason Chamber one of the larger business organizations on the Kitsap or Olympic Peninsulas. Kenny attributes much of this growth to the his chambers early adoption of Internet social networking. Kenny was also recently named to the Executive Board of the Association of Washington Business (AWB), serving as the Chair of the Chamber Division.  The AWB is the state’s Chamber of Commerce, representing over 6,000 member businesses.

Mr. Kenny is also scheduled to speak at two regional conferences, the Western Association of Chamber Executives (W.A.C.E.) Annual Conference in San Francisco in February 2010 and at the Northwest Chamber Leaders Conference in Coeur d’Alene in March 2010. Concerning the speaking engagements, he said, “This growth and success for our Chamber could not have happened without our first rate Board of Trustees. They are visionary in their thinking, willing to take risks, are team players, and they set high goals for themselves and staff. I am honored to work for them and the members. Everything we do comes back to our core functions of promoting the community, creating networking opportunities, advocating for our members, and contributing to the local economy.  Our growth in membership and budget allows us to do everyone of these core functions better. You can thank the volunteer Board of Trustees for that.”

Frank Kenny can be reached at frank@northmasonchamber.com , at 360-275-4267, or through any number of Internet social networking sites.

frankkenny Belfair

Hello!

I am with the North Mason Lions Club, and we will be hosting our 2nd Annual Peace Poster Contest Judging on
November 12, 2009  at 7pm in the large meeting room of the North Mason Timberland Library. Refreshments will be served.

The Peace Poster Contest is an international art contest for children ages 11-13. There is a new “Peace” theme each year that the children are to express their view of through various mediums of artistic expression, i.e. watercolor, pencil, charcoal, marker.

This year is “The Power of Peace”.   Last year’s was “Peace Begins With Me”.

Posters will be coming from students at Hawkins Middle School, Grapeview School, and the NM Boys and Girls Club.

We would like to invite the community to come support our children’s artistic expression, and help us choose the 3 winners that will go on to the next level of competition. The final level is a grand prize of US$2500, an expense paid trip to New York to the United Nations for Lions Day, a plaque, and international recognition through the Lions Club International.

Could you please post this in your upcoming events calendar? We would really appreciate it!

Thank you!

Kari Morgan
(360) 277-9421
NM Lions
Peace Poster Chair
Leo Club Advisor

Have a great day! Kyle & Kari Morgan

frankkenny Belfair

North Mason Community Is Invited

Rachel’s Challenge – Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Thanks to the efforts and partnership of the Hawkins and North Mason High School ASBs and PTSAs, our students will be participating in a program designed to help all students and staff realize how important it is that we treat each other with respect and understanding, no matter what challenges or other circumstances a person is experiencing. Rachel’s Challenge is a program that celebrates the life of a young woman who died in the Columbine High School shooting. Her story is inspiring and her message is one that promotes a mutual respect of all.

Students will participate in an all school assembly Wednesday morning where they will hear Rachel Scott’s story. All parents, grand parents and guardians and other interested community members are welcome and encouraged to attend the FREE evening assembly starting 7:00 pm at the NMHS gym. Here you will also learn about Rachel’s Story and her Challenge to increase the caring and respect we show others. We hope you make plans to attend with us.

5 challenges

The mission of this program is to:

*
Create a safe learning environment for all students by re-establishing civility and delivering proactive antidotes to school violence and bullying.
*
Improve academic achievement by engaging students’ hearts, heads and hands in the learning process.
*
Provide students with social/emotional education that is both colorblind and culturally relevant.
*
Train adults to inspire, equip and empower students to affect permanent positive change.

Rachel’s Challenge Community and Parent Program – Wednesday October 21st beginning at 7:00 pm at the NMHS Gym

frankkenny Belfair

Press Release

October 19, 2009

From the Mary E Theler Board of Directors

The Mary E Theler Community Center & Wetland Trails, Board of Directors’ would like to announce that they are seeking potential Board members. There will be two vacancies at the end of 2009. All potential candidates must live within the attendance area of North Mason High School, and cannot be employed by NMSD.

If you are interested please submit the following in a letter format:
Your contact information: name, Mail and e-mail address and telephone number
What professional and or non-profit experience you have or have had in the past
What is your interest in being on the “Theler” Board and why?
Please include any questions that you have of the Board of Directors or Theler in general

Letters will be accepted at “Theler Center” until filled
PO Box 1445/ 22871 SR 3, Belfair, Wa 98528 or Theler@hctc.com

Anne Whitman
Mary E. Theler Community Center
theler@hctc.com
360-275-4898
www.ThelerCenter.org
Twitter: thelercc

frankkenny Belfair

frankkenny Belfair

There’s no arguing that as we get older – life gets tougher. We slow down, simple tasks become much more difficult, more time is spent in doctors offices, and more of our income goes to medical expenses.

A decent medicare plan will help with the actual doctors visits, but to get prescription coverage we need to enroll in (and pay for) a part D plan. These plans constantly change, and are extremely complicated to navigate. To make it even harder, you can only enroll in a new plan yearly each November. The process presents quite an obstacle course.

To help our seniors navigate through these difficulties; the Area Agency on Aging and Faith in Action are partnering to bring a free Medicare Part D Registration clinic to North Mason. Meridee Anderson, from the Area Agency on Aging will be able to research the best possible plans for each client and sign them up on the spot. Seniors will be seen by appointment only, and each appointment should take approximately 20 minutes. The clinic will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 17 and Weds., Nov 18.

Each person will be asked to bring: their medicare card, their current drug card, and a list of the medications they are using.

Call Patti at Faith in Action (360)275-0535 to make your appointment. Appointments are limited, so don’t delay.

frankkenny Belfair

Hello Friends,

Olympic College recently received funding to offer another free all-day Women in Welding Workshop on Saturday, November 14 from 9 AM – 2 PM. The class is limited to 14 and will be on a first come first serve basis. To Register call the Olympic College Front Desk at 432-5400.

frankkenny Belfair

Gary Chandler, Vice President of Government Affairs for the Association of Washington Business will be our featured speaker at the North Mason Chamber of Commerce membership luncheon on Wednesday, October 28. A former State Representative (R-Moses Lake), Chandler is also the association’s chief lobbyist and directs its legislative and regulatory programs.

The luncheon begins at 11:30 at the Theler Community Center in Belfair. We start with introductions at 11:45. Announcements and news immediately follows with the program beginning at 12:30.

About Gary Chandler
As a legislator, Chandler co-chaired the House Agriculture and Ecology Committee and served on the Natural Resources and Transportation committees during the last legislative session. He was first elected to the legislature in 1990 from Moses Lake and served in a legislative seat once occupied by his father, Glyn.

Chandler has also been a member of AWB’s Board of Directors. He owns the UPS Store in Moses Lake. He was a hay farmer, apple orchardist, former manager of the family’s farm implement dealership and Grant County Commissioner.

About the Association of Washington Business
Formed in 1904, the Association of Washington Business is Washington’s oldest and largest statewide business association, and includes more than 6,600 members representing 650,000 employees. AWB serves as both the state’s chamber of commerce and the manufacturing and technology association, and is one of two chambers in the country accredited with distinction by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

While its membership includes major employers like Boeing, Microsoft and Weyerhaeuser, 90 percent of AWB members employ fewer than 100 people. More than half of AWB’s members employ fewer than 10.

As an organization, AWB has built a solid record of success in the legislative and regulatory arenas. Recent achievements include regulatory reform, tax incentives and reductions that help attract – and retain – business investment in Washington state, and policy changes that encourage state agencies to become more efficient and customer-friendly.

A large and diverse array of AWB members serve on the issue councils, committees and task force groups that guide the association and set its policy goals. Over the years, the AWB membership has become one of the most effective and respected grassroots forces in the state. When the governor, Legislature, and state seek the input of business on policy matters, they turn to AWB.

About the North Mason Chamber of Commerce Luncheon
The Chamber hosts a membership luncheon with a featured speaker on the fourth Wednesday of every month at the Mary E. Theler Community Center on State Route 3 in Belfair. A no-host catered lunch is served beginning at 11:30. Cost is $10 and reservations are not necessary.

Our monthly Shop Local winner’s name is drawn and new Chamber members are introduced and welcomed. Everyone is invited to come and network with other local business owners. Chamber membership is not required.

frankkenny Belfair

From the Oysterfest cooking contest…

Thought you all might be interested to see how I faired at Oysterfest 2009.

I was entered in the competition for the first time Oct 2008 last year – and won second place in my category – Appetizers, but wasn’t in the final money winners.

This year I was invited back and decided to again enter the Appetizer category with Crispy Salmon Burger with Aioli, Sweet Potato & Beet Chips and Apple Cider Cole Slaw.

The other categories were Soups & Salads and Mains/Entrées.  Eighteen chefs were invited to compete in the two-day Cookoff and this year 9 of them entered the Appetizer category.  I was last to cook on Saturday and had to come back late Sunday to find out how I scored.  Four judges scored each dish on the basis of the following criteria:

1. Presentation: 5pts – appropriate serving vessel, uniqueness, creative artistry, and eye appeal

2. Color: 5pts – appropriate to food item

3. Taste: 30pts – aroma, texture, quality of ingredients, balance of flavors, seasoning relationship to ingredients, appeal

4. Appropriate Temperature: 5pts

5. Sanitary Cooking Procedures: 5pts

Total possible points:  50 points

I presented 4 plates; one for each judge plus 1 show plate.  I’ll be receiving the actual scoring cards from the Judges in the mail later in the week so I can see how each one scored me in each of the criteria.

I’ve attached my menu with recipes plus 3 pics;  me in action, my plate, and my win.  I won 3^rd place for my Category and 3^rd place Overall which came with a check for $300.

Next year, I’m going for the Gold !!

Linda Strong, Personal Chef
Cedar Bay Culinary
360-426-6920 Kitchen
360-490-0009 Cell

frankkenny Belfair

HUMANE SOCIETY OF MASON COUNTY

SPAGHETTI DINNER FUND-RAISER

FRIDAY, NOV. 6, 2009, 5-8PM

THELER COMMUNITY CENTER, BELFAIR

$10 (CHILDREN 5 & UNDER FREE)

SPAGHETTI, SALAD, GARLIC BREAD, CAKE

SODAS/COFFEE/WATER

(WINE/BEER EXTRA)

ENTERTAINMENT PROVIDED BY:

KEL SCHMITZ, SINGER/SONGWRITER

OLDIES, COUNTRY, FOLK, ORIGINAL SONGS

frankkenny Belfair

JOB LOSS SUPPORT GROUP EVENT

October 22, 2009    Noon.  Open to all.

We will be focusing on Resume creation and Interview Techniques.

Held at: North Mason United Methodist church

Light lunch will be provided / on site child care available

For More information contact :

Janice Olmsted    360-275-4049

NMUMC  360-275-3714

frankkenny Belfair

Ribbon cutting is set for 9am Saturday the 10th of October

watch?v=3ejB6A7MDrQ

Belfair Dollar Store

236112 NE Hwy 3

Belfair

206-259-6409

catherbethinc@yahoo.com for more info

frankkenny Belfair

This is our latest commercial. 500 members here we come. What do you think? Want to be part of a winning team?

Join our Chamber

frankkenny Belfair

Members,

We are going to print soon on the North Mason Chamber membership directory and relocation guide.

We are printing and distributing 5,000 of these first-class 52 page glossy pieces that highlight the area and your businesses.

Question for You

Is your business listed under the proper primary category? That is the category that you will be listed under in the printed directory!

Please check the listing below for your business.

You can be listed in multiple categories for only $25 per additional category.

Make sure your business is found.

For instance, if you are a “general contractor” that also does “sub-contract” work, you will want to be in both categories. If you are a “painter” you will want to be in “sub-contractors” too.

Call membership director Stephanie Horton at 275-6258 or email stephanie@northmasonchamber.com

frankkenny Belfair

Cary Bozeman, Executive Director of the Port of Bremerton

Nominated to Chair the Chamber Council of the AWB

frankkenny Belfair

The 4th Annual Old Mill Days festival will be held the weekend of Sept. 25-27th in the historic town of Port Gamble. New this year: Party Like a Rock Star on Friday evening. 17 years and under free admissions and free Rock Star Energy drink. Rock Star DJ and Karaoke on Stage 1 with open mike night.  Main Stage live music with Boot Hill and ZZ Top Tribute Band.  On both Friday and Saturday night 8pm Fireworks presented by Boomtown Productions.  All weekend, the Coors Lite Beer Garden is presented by the Kitsap Chordsmen.

Saturday morning starts with the Loggers Breakfast, followed by the Classic Car Show. Also on  display, will be full fuel dragsters and hydroplanes.  The Lumberjack Competition returns with some of the best competitors in the nation. New events are Lumberjill competitions and log rolling.   Wood Carvers will be competing all weekend long with famous special guest appearances by Chainsaw Jack, the legendary carver from Extreme Makeover, Dave Tremko, who was hosted on Jay Leno and Steve Backus, the Pemco Insurance Roadside Carver. Enjoy local talent with many performances on Stage 1 including the NM Chamber’s own Okinawan Karate Black Belt Academy along with Taiko drummers- OKK Taiko on  Saturday night, 6-8 pm! Main Stage bands with the Wind Jammers and Soultronics on Saturday, full Carnival and new Straw Maze. Forest Festival Sat. & Sun. offers logging demonstrations and educational exhibits. Kayak Tours offered by Olympic Outdoor Center and complimentary Mountain Bikes rides provided by Kitsap Sports.

Admissions: Adults $5/day, All Military half price with ID, Children 8 and under freem Friday night 17 years & under free. Please visit our website for more information, festival map and directions. www.oldmilldays.com

frankkenny Belfair

Oktoberfestival, a time when we get together and celebrate the seasons harvest, both food and life.

Family, friends, neighbors, people from the local communities,  are all invited to the church on the hill, North Mason United Methodist Church, to join in the festivities….what festivities you ask?!!

Well, let me tell you.. We have a craft fair starting at 9 am with up to 45 tables full of hand crafted wares by a wonderful variety of talented artists.  Of course there will be a bake sale up and running during the same time as the craft fair!!  We are having a HUGE bin of apples being squeezed on the premises for fresh cider to go along with the freshly made donuts!

Both the donuts and the cider will be on sale until supply is gone. Once they are out, it will be a full year until you can get any more!  Starting at 11 am until 2 pm will be a wonderful soup luncheon served, this will be very economical meal and dessert is always available!

A silent auction will be on display and taking bids all day Saturday with it’s completion during the evening meal…German faire, including beverage, will be on the menu starting at 6 pm, tickets are on sale now!

The prices are;  children 12 and under $5.00, adults $10. and a family special of $30…Not to be outdone! The Home Town Band from Silverdale will be our evening entertainment!  You can’t help but clap and sing when the oompah oompah starts it’s thing!

So put Oktoberfestival on your calendars! Saturday, October 10^th. For more information or to purchase dinner tickets please contact the church’s office at 275-3714

frankkenny Belfair

On October 6^th, from 5-7 pm, Abel Wellness Center, Form Fit (24-hour fitness center) and Okinawan Karate Black Belt Academy, Inc. (OKBBA), your non-profit Martial Arts Center, will be hosting an exciting evening of fun, food and healthy living choices!

Join us for great food to include a Smoothie bar & Sushi, along with FABULOUS door prizes!

We’ll be starting downstairs at Abel Wellness Center at 5:00 pm with a tour and explanation of the services offered (& the Smoothie Bar!) Then moving upstairs around 5:45 to tour Form Fit’s state of the art facility & the programs they offer! Experience more great food and then participate in and/or enjoy a short presentation of OKBBA’s Personal Safety and Self Defense classes offered to business’ and individuals, as well as a sneak peak at the Martial Arts programs offered by OKBBA to include Okinawan Village Karate, Brazilian Ju jitsu and more! Below you will find details about each of your three fabulous hosts!  Read on to find out why this is a “Can’t miss” opportunity to improve your quality of life!

Bio on OKBBA:

Okinawan Karate Black Belt Academy (BBA) Mission and Purpose

To provide the men, women and children of the Northwest community Health and Fitness programs (i.e. Okinawan Karate, Brazilian Ju-Jitsu, Yoga, Tai Chi, Cardio Aerobics) and Personal Safety Programs i.e. Personal Safety & Self-Defense (PSSD). To collaborate with established community services such as NW Harvest, to provide for the betterment of the community; To collaborate with community experts to provide opportunities for all, including the disadvantaged, impaired and handicapped, to improve everyone’s lives; To train “Whole Person Leaders” and “Qualified Instructors” via the BBA’s formal Leadership Development Program. Please join us in achieving strength through harmony of the Mind, Body & Spirit!

You can check out the benefits of studying karate & learn more about us at www.ShorinRyu4u.com. Call 360.698.2032 or visit us at 10 NE Silver Pine Dr. Ste 112, Bremerton, WA 98311, Monday-Thursday between 5:30-7:30 pm!

frankkenny Belfair

“Relationship Builder Breakfast . . . wildly successful marketing!”

Tuesday, October 13

8am-9am (please arrive at 7:30 to order your breakfast; program begins sharply at 8am) Lennard K’s Boat House, Allyn

Featuring: Chamber Member Norma Dompier, Red Bike International

Topic: STOP “Shoulding” on yourself”!

How long is your “should” list when it comes to building business relationships?

“I should Twitter. I should blog. I should Facebook. I should do a website.

I should do print advertising.” Thinking about your “should” list can be overwhelming and could literally stop you from starting anything! During this interactive presentation, you will learn how to stop spinning and get back in the driver’s seat!

Reservations not necessary. Chamber members only, please.

For more information, stephanie@northmasonchamber.com, choffman@farmersagent.com; www.redbikeinternational.com

frankkenny Belfair

YOU ARE INVITED – I would like to invite you all to join us in some Boot Scootin’ FUN as we raise money for the North Mason Branch to support our Health and Life Skills programs, The Arts, Education and Career Development programs, Character and Leadership programs, Technology programs and Sports, Fitness, and Recreation programs throughout the year at the North Mason Teen Center and Sand Hill Elementary Site.

The BOOT SCOOTIN’ BARN DANCE & BARBEQUE begins at 5:30 on October 10th at 600 NE Roessel Road (the new Salmon Center Barn – used to be the Johnson family Barn) with a happy hour with country music and bar service by Lennard K’s, 6:30 is A YUMMY BBQ dinner from Smokin’ Mo’s, at 7:00 we’ll have a 15 minute program with Robby Guthrie, Youth of the Year for South Puget Sound in 2005 and Christney Kpoda, Regional Youth of the Year for 2009 telling us how the Club has impacted their lives.  You will have an opportunity to make a donation at this time and you may purchase raffle tickets for some great prizes throughout the night.  At 7:15 we’ll all learn to line dance with the help of dance instructor, Ms. Warnake, and have a great time dancing the night away .

You’ll have more fun than than you’ve had all year!

Wear your western wear if you have it, or just dress in casual attire – yep, we mean jeans if you like.

Tickets cost $50 each and can be purchased from me, or Katie Smith, our new branch director located at the teen center, board members, or at the following locations:

Kitsap Bank in Belfair and Allyn, Lennard K’s in Allyn, Windermere Lakeland Properties in Allyn, American Marine Bank in Belfair.

Special Thanks to our sponsors:

Harrison Medical Center, MJ Scott Enterprises LLC, Tom & Lynn Hamilton, Boxlight, Laurie Nanstad, Cathy Wolf, CPA, Mason County Title

Special Thanks also to our In Kind Donors for this event:

Peninsula Paving, Bremerton Pepsi Bottling, Lennard K’s, Olympia Federal Savings, Rob Nanstad, Cloud 9 Beer, Phyllis McGavick & Bill Broich, McGavick Winery, McLendon’s Hardware in Belfair, Alderbrook Inn, Belfair Fire Station, Grapeview Community Club, and Lakeland Village Properties, Ms. Warnake – Dance Instructor.

Don’t miss out on this Boot Scootin’ Good Time!!

Call us at 360-362-1854 or see our Website for more information – www.bg-clubs.com

frankkenny Belfair

Abel Wellness Center is more than just your typical Medical office.  While we do offer all of the medical amenities as most offices such as examinations, physicals, labs and wellness checks, our doctor also offers birthing classes, and the delivery of your new child.  We also offer integrative care with your doctor during times of need.  Working with your current physician, we give you a local office to do routine services.

Our staff can assist you in all your health needs such as hormonal balancing, nutritional counseling, and we even carry many of the medications you may need in house saving you time by not having to stop by the pharmacy on your way home.

We also offer many services that help you strengthen, and repair your body with Spinal adjustments, Structural Therapies, and a whole host of different types of massage therapies such as Tui Na, Hot Stones, Cold Stones, Medicinal oils, and deep tissue.

Come in and see why we have helped well over 300 people in the last year alone live a better, more complete life.

frankkenny Belfair

North Mason United Methodist church will be hosting a support group for those who have lost their job’s.

It will be held October 8th at 12:30 PM at North Mason United Methodist church. The intent of this event is to identify the needs of those persons who have been laid off. We will present speakers on such topics as: How to start your own business, and how to be self employed, what to do when you loose your health insurance, How to apply for work in this computer dominated society, and other subjects as they present themselves. A light lunch will be provided. Child care on site could be provided if arranged for prior to the meeting. All persons are welcome. For more information contact: Janice Olmsted. 360-275-4049 or call NMUMC at 360-275 3714. You may also reach Mrs. Olmsted at iwillrise@gmail.com

frankkenny Belfair

Mason County Public Utilities and Waste and the Mason County Commissioners will celebrate the beginning of the two-year construction project for the Belfair Wastewater and Water Reclamation Facility with a ceremonial groundbreaking on Monday, Oct. 12, 2009 in Belfair. The event will take place at 2 p.m. at the future site of “Pump Station #2,” behind the Belfair Assembly of God Church at 23001 NE State Route 3.

frankkenny Belfair

BOARD OF MASON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

DRAFT SPECIAL WORKSHOP/MEETING AGENDA

North Mason School District Administration Building

71 E Campus Drive, Belfair, WA

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2009

6:00 p.m.

1. Call to Order

2. Pledge of Allegiance

3. Open Forum for Citizen Input – Appropriate time limit will be observed

4. County Road Projects Update – Charlie Butros, Public Works

5. Belfair Sewer Update – Emmett Dobey, Utilities & Waste Management

6. Next Belfair meeting is tentatively set for December 8, 2009

7. Adjourn

frankkenny Belfair

Olympic College has recently launched a series of online Spanish classes directed at specific industries.  For example, Spanish for Teachers, Spanish for Law Enforcement, Spanish for Banking, Spanish for Customer Service and others are now available.  These courses are self-paced and teach vocabulary specific for that industry.

With the growing population of Hispanics in our area, this could be a good tool to help business owners and other workers in Mason County navigate conversations successfully.

To see a Demo or Register:  http://www.myspanishteacher.com/olympic

The course is currently being offered at a discount for $80 and allows 6 months to use the online learning tool.

I would be happy to answer any questions.

Wendy Miles, M.A.
Director Military & Continuing Education
Olympic College
1600 Chester Ave
Bremerton WA  98337-1699
p:  360-475-7786
f:   360-475-7321
wmiles@olympic.edu
www.olympic.edu

frankkenny Belfair

NORTH MASON SCHOOL BOARD SEEKS APPLICANTS FOR DIRECTOR, DISTRICT 2 SEAT

The North Mason School District Board of Directors invites all qualified residents to apply for appointment to the open position of Director, District 2.  The selected individual will serve through the term, ending winter of 2011. Qualifications include residing within the boundaries of District 2 (Union River south to Belfair-Tahuya Rd. including Lynch Cove, Beards Cove and View Ridge Hts.- map and legal description available upon request) and registered to vote in North Mason School District.  To be considered, applicants must submit a letter of interest to include contact information, a brief biographical sketch, and a statement about your interest in being a board member.  Letters of interest will be accepted through 4:00 PM, Friday, November 6, 2009 at the District Office, 71 E Campus Dr., Belfair, WA  98528.

Please call the District Administration Office at 277-2300 for more information.

frankkenny Belfair

Mike Boyle, Chairman of the Board

Owner, North Bay Mortgage

Dear fellow members,

As Chairman of the Board of your Chamber of Commerce, I am writing to you today to provide some additional information and reasoning behind the Belfair-North Mason Chamber of Commerce’s bylaws update.

I hope you have had a chance to read all of the proposed changes. Many months’ worth of committee and legal counsel work went into updating the bylaws of our growing chamber. The amended and restated bylaws have, of course, been posted on the Chamber’s website at www.northmasonchamber.com.

Deciding to revise and update an organization’s bylaws is not a small undertaking. Anyone who has sat on a bylaws committee knows that it is complicated and time-consuming work. Of course, even with all of the work invested in updating the bylaws, the final say always rests with you, the membership.

As officers and trustees of the chamber, it is our responsibility to make sure that the chamber is managed with an eye towards the future. It is my strong belief that our Chamber will play an especially important role in the unincorporated region’s future growth. From my experience on several state and federal work-force development boards, it is my opinion that is our duty to be a pro-active chamber and think regionally on economic development issues, infrastructure, and our long-term prosperity. The bylaws update does just that.

As you know, we have increased our membership by 92% in the past 18 months and now have more than 400 members from the area. This increase in membership and budget has allowed us to serve our members in the area more successfully than ever. We vigorously advocate for member businesses, create online and offline networking opportunities, and promote the local economy and the region, with a special focus on the unincorporated areas.

Thank you for being part of the team. Let me say what a pleasure it has been to be your Chairman of the Board during these exciting times. We are now one of the larger chambers in our region and one of the fastest growing chambers in the state. It could not have been done without a first rate volunteer Board of Trustees and dedicated staff.

The process to revise and update the by-laws is as follows:

·         At the April 2009 Trustee’s meeting, the Executive/Operations committee introduced the need for a possible bylaws revision. One of the pressing issues was that the current succession plan failed to consider that a Chairman Elect could be termed out by our term-limit rule before taking office. A committee was formed to review the bylaws for possible revision.

·         The committee met numerous times over the spring and summer with legal council to revise and update the bylaws. The Amended and Restated bylaws were approved by the committee on July 7^th.

·         The motion to change and update the by-laws came out of that committee, with the assistance of our paid legal counsel. It first went to our Executive/Operations Committee where it was discussed, approved, and forwarded on to the Trustees.

·         The motion was then discussed and approved by the Trustees in the August Trustee’s meeting and forwarded to the membership.

·         The full membership was notified and supplied with the by-law changes 30 days prior to the September 23^rd luncheon.

·         Our membership in attendance at the luncheon will be given a ballot upon their check-in and confirmation of membership is paid to date. Membership will be allowed to vote one time per membership at the check-in table. Voting will be open for the duration of the meeting. There was a question from a member on allowing proxy votes. The current by-laws, in my opinion, are not clear regarding proxy votes. I have decided not to refuse proxy votes if they are on a legal proxy form. A proxy form can be obtained on your Chamber’s web site. The ballots will be then be collected at the close of the membership luncheon. The ballots will be counted and the pass/fail of the proposed by-law change will be announced that same day. If the motion is approved by the membership, the by-laws are adopted. If the by-laws are not approved it goes back to the committee.

In closing, I look forward to you coming to our luncheon to vote. With the boundaries of the Belfair UGA touching the Kitsap County line, we have an exciting speaker that day and the house will be packed. Former Mayor of Bremerton and Port of Bremerton Executive Cary Bozeman will be talking about the unlimited opportunities of economic development happening at our border and what that will mean to us. It is an exciting time in the North end of Mason County and I look forward to you sharing this moment with you.

Sincerely,

Mike Boyle

Chairman of the Board

Belfair-North Mason Chamber of Commerce

frankkenny Belfair

frankkenny Belfair

My son has attended the North Mason Boys and Girls club since Sept. 2008.  He has Aspergers Syndrome, a form of Autism and ADHD.

Today I attended his usual IEP meeting with his speech therapist, teacher, special education teachers, occupational therapist and school counselor.

During the meeting, they all were impressed with his ability to “get back to the swing of things” after being gone from school for summer break.

The teachers and therapists have had him since kindergarten, he is now in 3rd grade.

They preceeded to show me various testing he has completed within this past week.  They were comparing where he was from May 2009 until now, Sept 2009.

Amazingly, he has made a years worth of improvement in reading and math…not to mention comprehension.  The teachers and therapists were wondering what it is that I did differently this past summer.  I informed them of him attending the Summer program at the Boys and Girls club- full time.  They were entirely impressed and noticed that the structure and education the program provides, along with the various experiences provided has noticeably helped him.  The team (his family as well) was visibly excited with the forward strides in his education.  We are very thankful to the program and staff (specifically Mrs. Sue) for the opportunity this program has provided.

Gxxxx looks forward to going to the Boys and Girls Club everyday.

That is why we are so passionate for the Boys and Girls Club. Please do your part to keep this fine non-profit vibrant and effective for our kids and our community.

Please attend the Barn Dance and BBQ

frankkenny Belfair

Carnivale was the theme. We all had a great time.

frankkenny Belfair

Dozens of people raise money for cancer research through the North Mason Cancer Crusaders. Here is a quick and silly video of us.

Please donate a few bucks to cancer research at http://tiny.cc/nmcc

frankkenny Belfair

Cary Bozeman, Port of Bremerton CEO

Cary Bozeman, Port of Bremerton CEO, will be the featured speaker at the North Mason Chamber of Commerce monthly membership luncheon set for Wednesday, September 23.

The former mayor of Bremerton is expected to discuss and update the membership and public on all the exciting activities at the Port, located just four miles north of Belfair on State Route 3.

Chamber members in attendance will also vote on the proposed name change from Belfair-North Mason Chamber to Mason-Kitsap Chamber.

Bozeman may discuss the many economic opportunities occurring around and at the Port that will directly affect North Mason. The Belfair Urban Growth Area (UGA) touches the Kitsap County border and the Port is less than four miles away from the Belfair UGA. Other topics could include the South Kitsap Industrial Area (SKIA), the cross-SKIA connector, airport runway improvements, auto racing and the Port’s three-year action plan.

The Port’s mission statement reads:
The Port of Bremerton is entrusted to plan, develop, maintain, manage and promote business, industrial maritime and aviation facilities and services for the purpose of inducing capital investment and creating economic development, employment, transportation and recreational opportunities in a financially and environmentally responsible manner, dedicated to the general welfare of the citizens and business of the Port district and the region.

The Port’s vision statement reads:
The Port of Bremerton will build, operate and maintain world class facilities providing recreation and economic development opportunities for aviation, marine and business facilities.

The North Mason Chamber of Commerce monthly luncheon will be held at 11:30 on Wednesday, September 23 at the Theler Community Center in Belfair. We start with introductions at 11:45. Announcements and news immediately follows with the program beginning at 12:30.

The Chamber hosts a membership luncheon with a featured speaker on the fourth Wednesday of every month at the Mary E. Theler Community Center on State Route 3 in Belfair. A no-host catered lunch is served beginning at 11:30. Cost is $10 and reservations are not necessary.

Our monthly Shop Local winner’s name is drawn and new chamber members are introduced and welcomed. Everyone is invited to come and network with other local business owners. Chamber membership is not required.

Contact Frank Kenny at the North Mason Chamber with questions at frank@northmasonchamber.com or 360-275-4267.

frankkenny Belfair

The Theler Center Community Cookbook project is almost finished. Over 100 great recipes have been gathered for the book, which will share the culinary talents of many local citizens. Cookbook sales will begin shortly in time for Christmas, with all proceeds to benefit the Theler Community Center.

Advertising revenue will help defray the publishing costs and increase the fundraising benefits for Theler. Ad prices are below and you can click here to download the Theler advertising form. To submit a recipe, click here for the recipe form.

1/4 page ad is $40
1/2 page ad is $70
Full page ad is $100

Line ready copy or business cards are welcome. Contact Margi Kenny at 275-6283 or margiv3@yahoo.com to discuss details or ask questions. Deadline for this opportunity is September 21.

Margi notes that the Theler Cookbook could be somewhat historical in nature, as the ads will be in the hands of the book buyers for years to come.

frankkenny Belfair

Mike Boyle and Frank Kenny greet Terry Halvorson at the Kitsap Conference Center.

The North Mason Chamber of Commerce reached a new milestone this week … we welcomed the Kitsap Conference Center on the Bremerton waterfront as our 400th member!

Mike Boyle, Chairman of the Board, and Frank Kenny, President/CEO, paid a special visit to Terry Halvorson, Director of the Kitsap Conference Center to meet and greet her.

“I think it’s great to be the 400th member of this Chamber,” said Terry. “It’s all about getting the word out about what we do, and chambers provide that opportunity. We belong to several chambers.”

Boyle commented, “Going from 210 to 400 members in 19 months is a testament to setting an attainable goal, member deliverables and that having a lot of fun, works! I want to thank our Board and staff for believing that the sky is the limit. Now on to 500 members!”

Please join us in welcoming the Kitsap Conference Center as the 400th member of our growing North Mason Chamber of Commerce.

frankkenny Belfair

Please watch this video from the Puget Sound Partnership. Your Chamber is helping to protect the Hood Canal and Puget Sound.

frankkenny Belfair

September 19th Join us at the Allyn Waterfront Park

World Wide Spin in Public Day

Bring your spinning wheel, drop spindle, weaving loom, knitting, crocheting or any other fiber things that make you happy, booths will be set up if you need supplies.

http://www.allynknitandspin.com

frankkenny Belfair

Check out his great video on the Walter Dacon Winery

http://gallery.me.com/linda_paladin#100183

frankkenny Belfair