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COVER STORY
Lary’s picks for the best new vehicles
Answering your questions about the whole car thing,
and how it works
By Lary Coppola |
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Although I’ve been writing the car reviews that appear in the Business Journal as well as a number of city and lifestyle-type magazines for going on 15 years, I am continually asked three questions — the first two being: How did I get started doing this, and what do I think is the best car.
To Answer Question #1: I’ve always been a car guy. From the time I was a little kid, I could name every car — make model and year — on the road. Out of the blue, a fellow named Mark Duffus walks into my office one day and asks if we publish car reviews in the Business Journal. I tell him no, but I’m certainly open to the idea. I just don’t have access to the cars. He grinned, and said, “That’s why I’m here.” Mark is with Specialty Transport; a company that manages the national press fleets for numerous manufacturers. Mark now runs Specialty’s southern California operation.
The cars don’t come from local dealers, but from that press fleet — a pool of cars each manufacturer maintains specifically to be driven by automotive journalists for evaluation purposes. There are about 100 or so automotive writers in the country published widely enough to be recognized by the manufacturers as credible. I happen to be one of them. I get a new car every week that’s been detailed and is full of gas. The manufacturers pay the insurance. I pay any tickets... (Full Article)
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40 Under Forty Nominees Receive Awards |
| With over 70 nominations from all walks of life, including both the public and private sectors to be considered, our extremely discerning panel of judges has selected 40 of the Kitsap Peninsula's most outrstanding individuals to be recognized with our second "40 Under Forty" honors... (Full Article) |
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County officials to tighten belts
to secure financial viability |
| In a meeting recently, the Board of County Commissioners urged Kitsap County elected and appointed officials to work together to help ensure the future financial viability of the county. In a brief presentation, Ben Holland, Director of Administrative Services, outlined the short- and long-term financial challenges facing the county... (Full Article) |
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Vistage International forming leadership
development group in Kitsap County |
| Business owners, company presidents and CEOs all share something in common. When it is time to make the really tough decisions, all eyes are keenly focused on them... (Full Article) |
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November Business Calendar |
| Bainbridge Island Chamber of Commerce (206) 842-3700. www.bainbridgechamber.com: Oct. 30 to Nov. 20: Chamber of Commerce Community School: Laptop Laboratory, 7 to 9 p.m. Mondays at Bainbridge High School. Cost is $75. Nov. 1 to 29: Chamber of Commerce Community School: Microsoft Excel-Intermediate, 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays (no class Nov. 22) at Bainbridge High School. Cost is $75... (Full Article) |
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ENVIRONMENTAL
Understanding the Puget Sound...
one watershed at a time
By Kathleen Byrne-Barrantes |
| On October 19 the ENVVEST Community Advisory Committee met in Bremerton to understand the process and status of the fecal coliform water cleanup plan and learn about the newly released study by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife... (Full Article) |
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WINNERS IN BUSINESS
Charles Keating: Geek to entrepreneur
By Rodika Tollefson |
| Charles Keating is one of those “geeks” who started out at an early age. He was contracted as a computer programmer at age 16, and opened his business, Keating Consulting, at age 20 — back in the days when “disk drives were the size of the washing machine... (Full Article) |
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Accessibility to businesses
By Wendy Miles |
| America’s love affair with the automobile continues, despite recent spikes in gas prices and growing congestion on our roadways. Why? As Americans we love the convenience and independence a car offers. Being able to come and go as we please is our American birthright, right... (Full Article) |
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International trade’s impact
on local economic development
From the Kitsap Economic Development Council |
| Last month, we identified economic development mega trends. International trade and investment were among those listed and the emphasis for this month’s article. Of the 68 Kitsap businesses surveyed in the past 15 months, 26 percent indicate they participate in international trade. One-third of those participating in international trade state their primary market is international... (Full Article) |
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New Barnes & Noble debuts on Nov. 8 |
| Barnes & Noble, Inc. will open its new bookstore on Nov. 8 in the Kitsap Mall in Silverdale. Concurrently; the existing store at 3108 NW Randall Way will close. The new store will stock close to 200,000 book, music, DVD and magazine titles and include a café serving Starbucks coffee... (Full Article) |
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Christmas in the Country set
for December 1-3 |
| On December 1, 2 and 3 private Bainbridge Island historic homes, farms, cottage industries, stables, and art studios open their doors to visitors during the 13th annual Christmas in the Country history and arts tour. Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. this progressive party stops at eight different places on the Island, but includes ten venues... (Full Article) |
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New urgent care clinic opens in Gig Harbor |
| Franciscan Health Systems opened a new urgent care clinic in Gig Harbor in October. The St. Anthony Prompt Care, a state-of-the-art urgent care clinic offering treatment for minor illnesses and injuries, opened in the St. Anthony Medical Building, formerly called the 4700 Pt. Fosdick Building. The clinic is open seven days a week and is staffed by two physicians and three registered nurse practitioners... (Full Article) |
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Port Orchard Chamber installs officers,
honors Man and Woman of the Year |
| The Port Orchard Chamber of Commerce recently installed its slate of officers for the coming year, and honored the man and Woman of the Year... (Full Article) |
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Bremerton Chamber honors
outstanding volunteers |
| The Bremerton Area Chamber of Commerce honored two exemplary volunteers at its 99th Annual Installation and Auction on Sept. 30... (Full Article) |
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AWB’s Brunell to head state Chambers group |
| Association of Washington Business (AWB) President Don C. Brunell was elected chairman of the Council of State Chambers (COSC), a national organization composed of the CEO’s of all state chambers of commerce, at the organization’s annual meeting at Skamania Lodge... (Full Article) |
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American Marine Bank runs campaign
to stock food bank |
| The Kingston office of American Marine Bank (AMB) ran its own food drive to benefit the Kingston Food Bank. The idea was the brainchild of Sandy Walters in the AMB Loan Service Center, who read in the Kingston Community News about the lack of supplies at the food bank... (Full Article) |
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Endresen elected to state and national boards |
| Recently the Washington State Association of Counties (WSAC), elected Kitsap County Commissioner Chris Endresen as vice president of the state association. In 2005, she served as Secretary/Treasurer of the group... (Full Article) |
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Changes in staff at KMHS |
| David Beck, M.D., has joined Kitsap Mental Health Services (KMHS) as director of medical services. He will head a staff of medical providers including eight physicians and four nurse practitioners that provide both outpatient and inpatient medical services... (Full Article) |
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Kitsap Lavender now shipping nationwide |
| Labyrinth Hill, a Hansville lavender grower, reported continued sharp growth in sales of fresh lavender and dried lavender buds during its third season, primarily via the Internet... (Full Article) |
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Beach House at Purdy changes name, concept |
| The “Beach House at Purdy,” an upscale restaurant, closed in October to undergo a major remodel and name change to turn it into a more casual place. The restaurant will be called the Margarita Beach Café... (Full Article) |
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New BBQ tent opens in Poulsbo
at the Lemolo Market |
| Patrick Momany says that after 30 years cooking professionally and for enjoyment, it became apparent that BBQ was the avenue most suited to his unique understanding of one’s palette. The recipes and sauces he uses were developed from years of experience with different cuisines, without altering the basic principles of BBQ. They are available for all to enjoy at Poulsbo’s Lemolo Market |
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Karley Comer joins Robert’s Clip Joint |
| Robert Rawlings and Julie Stark welcome Karley Comer to Robert’s Clip Joint, located at the Perry Avenue Mall in Bremerton.
Comer has been a stylist since 2001 having finished her training at Victoria’s Academy in Eastern Washington. She specializes in colors, perms, highlights, up do’s, techno-cuts and military fades. The trio brings over 40 years of salon experience. No need to make an appointment, and email access and x-box will keep you entertained.
Robert’s Clip Joint can be reached (360) 377-0202.
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Bay Street Association to celebrate public art |
| The Port Orchard Bay Street Association and the Kitsap County Arts Board are hosting a late afternoon celebration of public art. It will take place on Wednesday, Nov. 8 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Kitsap County Administration Building, located at 619 Division Street in Port Orchard. There will be a reception celebrating the artwork on permanent display and artists will be on hand to answer questions about their works. Guests are encouraged to tour the grounds and the interior of the new facility.
For more information, contact DeDe Teeters, events chair for the Port Orchard Bay Street Association, at (360) 874-8932.
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Want an SBA loan? |
| The Kitsap Business Assistance Center (KBAC) is presenting a free seminar titled “How to Obtain U.S. Small Business Administration Loans.” It will take place on Monday, Nov. 6 from 1 – 2 p.m. at the Norm Dicks Government Center in Bremerton.
Contact Rand Riedrich at (360) 307-4220 or Roger Hopkins at (206) 553-7082.
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Hoppen joins Kitsap Bank |
| Marilyn Hoppen recently joined Kitsap Bank as vice president/human resources director. She was previously employed by the Society for Human Resource Management, where she served as regional manager of the Pacific West Region. |
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Bremerton Symphony Youth Orchestra
season opener |
| The Bremerton Symphony Youth Orchestra will play its first concert of the season on Sunday, Nov. 5. Great and Small Expectations, will begin at 4 p.m. at the Admiral Theatre located at 515 Pacific Avenue in Bremerton. Doors and box office are open at the Admiral Theatre at 3 p.m. Tickets are $5 per person. For more information contact Gena Wales, at (360) 373-1722. |
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Sell named to Linder Educational Foundation |
| Angela Sell has been selected to serve as a member of the board of directors for the Paul Linder Educational Foundation in Silverdale. The Foundation is dedicated to promoting excellence in education within the Central Kitsap School District. It awards Linder Academic Grants to students and staff to promote higher levels of academic achievement and has awarded over $37,000 in grants to staff and students in the last nine years. |
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Northwoods Lodge announces
Employee of the Year |
| Northwoods Lodge recently announced that Takaski Misuda has been selected as the employee of the year for 2005-2006. Takaski has demonstrated excellent team player skills since he came to Northwoods Lodge in April 2005. He interfaces well with all staff in the building and is often sought out by the certified nursing assistants to assist with a transfer on a late arrival patient, assist with a difficult transfer in a room or to help problem solve a complex situation. |
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Master Hydronics Aire Serv names
ops manager |
| Master Hydronics Aire Serv of Keyport announced the addition of Mike Bradshaw as operations manager and sales specialist. He brings more than 20 years of sales and management experience in the HVAC industry to his new post and will provide clients with economical and energy efficient solutions for their homes and workplaces. |
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AWB publishes 2007 Competitiveness Redbook |
| The Association of Washington Business (AWB) and the Washington Research Council have completed the 2007 Competitiveness Redbook — a report that provides a snapshot of Washington’s business climate compared to that of all 50 states in the nation.
The 2007 Redbook provides a set of indicators that track and evaluate the competitiveness of Washington’s business climate. The Redbook contains more than 50 specific areas of measurement that help rank Washington compared all of the other 49 states.
For a more detailed analysis of the Redbook, or to obtain a copy, contact AWB’s Shawn Sullivan at ShawnS@awb.org, or by calling (360) 943-1600. The 2007 Competitiveness Redbook costs $7, with shipping included.
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G.H.’s Best Western Wesley Inn opens
Executive Wing with 14 new suites |
| Twenty-nine guestrooms have been added to Gig Harbor’s accommodations with the grand opening of the Best Western Wesley Inn’s Executive Wing on Sept. 19. The 20,000 square foot addition includes 15 new guestrooms, 14 one-bedroom guest suites, and two meeting rooms, each seating up to 100 people.
For package, event and visitor information, access the newly launched website www.gigharborguide.com or call the Gig Harbor Visitor Information Center at (888) 843-9414.
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West Hills Elementary receives library
grant from Fred Meyer Foundation |
| West Hills Elementary has received a $2,500 community grant from the Fred Meyer Foundation to be used in supporting the school’s library. The grant will be used to buy additional books and resources for students.
“The Fred Meyer Foundation and its Advisory Committee Members were impressed by the successful track record of West Hills Elementary and its programs,” said Glynda Brockhoff, philanthropy coordinator for Fred Meyer and the Fred Meyer Foundation.
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Burnett’s work featured at New Mexico gallery |
| Local artist, gallery owner, and columnist Amy Burnett is opening a new exhibit in Santa Fe, N.Mex. The exhibit will be in the Houshang Gallery, located at 235 Don Gaspar, across from the Saint Frances Hotel.
Houshang Yoden has represented Burnett for over fifteen years, but this is the first time that she will have her kinetic mobile sculptures in Santa Fe. The primary theme of the exhibit is horses, with one introduction of a large salmon mobile.
Burnett’s work will be at the Houshang Gallery throughout the fall season. Locally, Burnett’s unique fine art table installations have been featured in WestSound Home & Garden Magazine, which can be found in local bookstores and supermarkets.
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AWB endorses Krantz in the 26th |
| The Association of Washington Business (AWB) declared its support for Beckie Krantz after studying her views on economic growth, job creation and other issues. As the largest and most influential business organization in the state, AWB members provide jobs for some 600,000 Washingtonians. The AWB announcement follows an earlier endorsement for Krantz from the National Federation of Independent Business. Krantz is running for State Representative, Position 1, against current Representative Pat Lantz, a Democrat.
Krantz also has the support of many top political leaders, including Dino Rossi and Attorney General Rob McKenna. She has called for a return to the state spending guidelines championed by Rossi and enacted by the voter approved initiative, 601. Krantz’s opponent voted with the legislature in 2005 to overturn the Citizens initiative, resulting in record state spending increases.
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Rolfes under investigation by the PDC |
| The 23rd District Legislative candidate Christine Rolfes is currently being investigated by the Washington State Public Disclosure Commission (PDC) for violations of state campaign finance laws. Rolfes, who has been given notice of these violations, has failed to address the issue or attempt to correct the problem. In question are excessive contributions from individual donors and failure to fully disclose information regarding her contributors.
The Rolfes’ campaign attributed the error to an inexperienced campaign volunteer, and said that the irregularities have been corrected.
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Carlos Printing Concepts acquired
by Winslow Communications |
| Winslow Communications LLC of Bainbridge Island announced recently that it has completed the acquisition of Kent-based Carlos Printing Concepts, a provider of commercial printing products and services.
The acquisition broadens Winslow Communications’ prepress and printing abilities and will enable it to serve its clients and customers with a broader range of printing services. The acquisition adds advanced Direct-To-Plate prepress technology and a 6-color, 40-inch Heidelberg Speedmaster printing press to the firm. For more information call (206) 682-7813.
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Sheldon, AWB, others endorse Neatherlin
in 35th House race |
| State Senator Tim Sheldon formally announced his endorsement of Randy Neatherlin for State Representative in the 35th District. Sheldon believes that his constituents “need another strong independent voice” in the legislature and a representative who is “not beholden to partisan politics.” Sheldon stated that “Randy is a well-known and proven community leader and his boundless energy makes him the clear choice.”
Neatherlin has also been endorsed by business groups including the Kitsap Affordable Housing Council, the Washington State Farm Bureau, and the Association of Washington Business.
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Gregoire to speak at combined luncheon |
| Governor Christine Gregoire is the guest speaker at a combined luncheon of the Bremerton Area Chamber of Commerce and Pacific Northwest International Trade Association. She will be speaking about international trade, and discussing issues facing the business community.
The luncheon sponsored by the Kitsap Peninsula Business Journal, Puget Sound Energy and Pepsi/Bremerton Bottling Co. Inc., will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 8 at 11:30 a.m., at the Kitsap Conference Center at Bremerton Harborside.
For more information, contact the Bremerton Area Chamber at (360) 479-3579 or chamber@bremertonchamber.org.
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Gregoire earns an “F” on Cato
Institute’s Governors Report Card |
| Governor Christine Gregoire of Washington receives an F on the Cato Institute’s eighth biennial fiscal policy report card recently released. She earns a failing grade for ballooning budgets, reinstating the estate tax and hiking other state taxes, such as the cigarette and gas tax. According to the study, Gregoire is “one of the worst new governors in the nation.”
For more information on the study contact Stephen Slivinski, director of budget studies at sslivinski@cato.org, Kristen Kestner, senior media relations manager at (202) 789-5212 or kkestner@cato.org, or Evans Pierre, director of broadcasting at (202) 789-5204 or epierre@cato.org.
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Harrison Medical Center contributes
to Annual Human Rights Conference |
| Harrison Medical Center contributed $5,000 to support the 16th Annual Kitsap County Human Rights Conference, sponsored by the Kitsap County Human Rights Council and Board of County Commissioners.
“Harrison Medical Center was proud to be a sponsor of the 2006 Kitsap County Human Rights Conference,” said Peter Denis, of Harrison’s Human Resources Department. “Harrison believes that if we are to maintain the rights and freedoms we so strongly cherish and have so long fought for, then we must be constantly learning and increasing our awareness of the issues and threats to those fundamental rights. As a leader in our community and a provider of health care to our families, the contribution to this conference allows us all to participate, in some measure, in the process of safeguarding the inalienable qualities of the foundations of our society.”
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Buddy-Girl Greetings opens |
| Buddy-Girl Greetings recently opened. It is an online store, which also displays products in the local gift store Made in Bremerton, located on Pacific Avenue. It makes greeting cards, art prints, bookmarks, calendars, and postcards. For more information visit www.buddygirlgreetings.com. |
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Christopher Davenport Films
launches newsletter |
| Christopher Davenport Films recently launched “The Personal Story” newsletter. It is a free monthly newsletter for people who want to preserve their heritage or stories on video. For more information or to subscribe, visit www.ThepersonalStory.com. |
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Best business practices briefing set for Poulsbo |
| Maria Marsala, a marketing and business strategist, will be conducting a best practices briefing titled “Plan Today, Profit Tomorrow.” It will take place on Friday, Nov. 3 and Friday, Nov. 10 in downtown Poulsbo. The cost is $99 and includes a business plan workbook, entrepreneur toolkit CD, templates, and refreshments. For more information or to register contact Marsala at (360) 271-8418. |
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Red Cross to partner with HSDC to offer class |
| The American Red Cross recently announced a partnership with the Hearing, Speech and Deafness Center (HSDC) in Seattle. Together, they will provide CPR and First Aid instruction in American Sign Language in Bremerton. HSDC has identified Kitsap county residents in need of this service and is offering the class to meet that need.
The class will be held in the Red Cross West Sound Service Center at 811 Pacific Ave in Bremerton on Friday, November 17 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.. The fee for the class is $60 per person. To register, contact Karen Stueland at (206) 388-1295 or kstueland@hsdc.org.
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S.K. Helpline needs donations |
| The South Kitsap Helpline is in dire need of food donations. It provides food for more than 2600 children, adults and senior citizens each month. Donations of food can be dropped off from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Mon. and from 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Send financial contributions to: South Kitsap Helpline, Attn: Food for Hungry Families, 351 Bay Street, Port Orchard, WA 98366.
For more information call (360) 876-4089.
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