Land Title Welcomes First Female President

Land Title Welcomes First Female President

Land Title Company recently announced the election of their first female President, Kris Mihulka, following the December 31st retirement of Steve Green. Green retired after nearly 35 years with Land Title Company

Mihulka, selected after a national and regional search, has been an employee of Land Title for over 34 years, serving as the Vice President and Kitsap County Manager since 2012. She began her duties as President on January 1st.

“Kris originally came to work for Land Title Company while still attending high school,” stated Green. “She has worked in all departments of this company and brings a tremendous breadth of experience and enthusiasm to her new position.”

Evergreen Home Loans Celebrates Move to Waterfront

Evergreen Home Loans – The Pike Team recently made a short move down onto the Poulsbo waterfront after out-growing their space on Jensen Way. The Chamber had a mini ribbon-cutting for their new space in early December where members of the community turned out for some holiday cheer and to check out their temporary space. The Pike Team will be permanently relocating up to Powder Hill in March.

 

 

Chamber Luncheon Offers Marketing Insight

November’s Chamber Luncheon was filled with great advice for business members as the featured panel of speakers spent time talking about marketing efforts that have worked well for them. Denver Smyth of Western Red Brewing, Alisha Weiss of Skyhawk Press, Megan Cooper of Blue Heron Jewlery and Shiloh Schroeder of Fusion Creative Works, talked about the challenges of reaching your customer despite ever-changing technology and the rise of social media.

Mystery Member: Pho T&N

Rang and his wife Huyen, along with their four children are a true picture of creating the American Dream.

Pho T&N was established from humble beginnings by the Nguyen Family in 2005.

The journey to this path was not smooth nor was it easy.  Their strong work ethic, passion, and drive stem from what they experienced through the Vietnam War, as well as living in refugee camps with their children.  Their perseverance and strength have gifted them with this dream.  A dream  that started long ago with the couple’s desire to not only create a better life for their family, but to bring forth the best authentic Vietnamese food to a foreign land. 

Their journey to owning their own restaurant had very humble beginnings from selling Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwiches) to butchering meat, then to working in various kitchens throughout the Seattle area.  Although there always seemed to be a language barrier, they could express themselves through their food.  This passion and legacy is now being shared and passed down to their children and grandchildren.

Their eldest son Joe oversees the restaurant’s public relations.  He brings his outgoing personality, as well as his experiences at the refugee camp, memories of Vietnam, and years of service with the US Marine Corp.  Trinh, the eldest daughter is not only the family gal with 2 young, adorable boys, but her expertise in cooking has been passed down from her parents.  Thai, is known for his quiet subtle personality and is often seen helping in the kitchen as he is trying to learn the ropes.

Their main focus has always been and continues to be that of satisfying their customers by tantalizing their taste buds and filling up their tummies.

www.photnpoulsbo.com

Ribbon Cutting: 2 Brothers Deli

“Poulsbo welcomes Ed, Sonia, Oscar and Britney to the 2 Brothers Deli. Pizza dough from scratch, pizza, Stromboli, calzone, Philly cheesesteaks… wow, so good! Poulsbo comes to south Philadelphia! Yum!”  -Mayor Becky Erickson

The Ribbon Cutting at 2 Brothers Deli was a combination of great people, delicious food, happy tears and networking. If you were unable to attend the Ribbon Cutting, stop by 2 Brothers Deli and try one of their mouthwatering sandwiches or a slice of yummy pizza.

Mystery Member: Pacific EyeCare

Pacific EyeCare of Poulsbo (PECP) is a comprehensive eye care clinic that has served the Peninsula and the Pacific Northwest since 1979.  The clinic utilizes the latest technologies in performing eye surgery and evaluating the health of the eye.  From glasses and contact lenses to glaucoma, retina, and cataract surgeries, PECP continues to represent the highest level of eye care.  With offices in Poulsbo and Port Townsend, PECP is served by Drs. O’Morchoe, Lin, Dieffenbaugher, and Noble.  PECP truly represents the highest level of eye care in Poulsbo’s backyard.  PECP has been intimately involved with the local communities in sponsoring events, scholarships, community services, and educational/health institutions.  In an age where the larger groups and institutions are forming, PECP remains strong and committed to serving and being a part of North Kitsap.

www.pacificeyecare.com

Mystery Member: Starbucks Coffee Company

Starbucks opened it’s new location on Hwy 305 in May. The beautiful interior coupled with one of the best views in Poulsbo make this the place to enjoy a cup of coffee. You must go inside to truly appreciate the efforts the designers put forth to include local influence in their design process. In the early 1900s, Hostmark Street was a major street for the lumber and boat building industry. The inspiration for the new Poulsbo Starbucks was driven by the boat building process. The stunning interior design incorporates many nautical aspects. Grab your favorite refreshment, sit down and enjoy the breathtaking view of the Olympic Mountains.

After Hours/Ribbon Cutting: BNI Waterfront Professionals and JC Madison

The After Hours hosted by BNI Waterfront Professionals and the Ribbon Cutting for JC Madison made for an enjoyable evening filled with delicious hors d’oeuvre and mingling.

Thank you for helping us celebrate the reveal of our new office space at our Ribbon Cuttingt! We hope you had a wonderful evening of connecting with your business neighbors in Poulsbo. We are so grateful for this wonderful community, and look forward to guiding you to benefits that fit for another 40 years!

Stephanie Kirk

JC Madison

Mystery Member: Edward Jones – Robert W. Morgan; Financial Advisor

I have the best job on the planet.  This is why I came to Edward Jones instead of another Financial firm. We take care of our people. They are our families.  I am honored to have my office here in Poulsbo with so many wonderful people.

Ted Jones–the son of Edward D. Jones Sr., founder of the financial-services firm that bears his name–wrote the following response when questioned “Why are you not interested in taking Edward Jones public and becoming a multi-billionaire?”

His rationale is a symbol of the company’s culture that still exists today.

  • I am the richest man in America.
  • I have a wife who loves me in spite of my faults.
  • I have four dogs. Two love only me. One loves everybody. One loves no one, but still is very loyal and follows me everywhere I go on the farm.
  • I have a horse I love to ride around the farm, and best of all she comes to me when I call her.
  • I have too much to eat and a dry place to sleep.
  • I enjoy my business.
  • I love my farm and my home.
  • I have a few close friends, and money has never been my God.

Edward “Ted” Jones
1925-1990

This is the man who inspires the established process that we follow every day. This quote hangs on my wall and everyday as I walk in it is a reminder of who I am, and who I want to be. This is Edward Jones.

September 2017 Luncheon

We had another great Open Exchange/Mini Business Expo Luncheon yesterday! The room was buzzing with the sound of people getting to know each other and their businesses. The games were not to entertain, but to help us mingle and get to know one another. It worked! We not only had face to face time with local businesses, but got to know them personally. We learned that one attendee has 6 siblings and another has 6 children! It is an invaluable experience to get to know our business community on a more personal level. That is what networking is all about!

Thank you to PrimeLending for being our Luncheon sponsor this month! Thank you to everyone who attended.

Thank you to the business who participated:

Costco Wholesale | ADM Architecture | Poulsbo Animal Clinic | Nature Works

P5 Photography | 2 Brothers Deli | Vibe CoWorks | Olympic Workforce Development Center

Arbonne International – Kathy Rowland | Kitsap Regional Library 

Mystery Member: Pro-Guard Heated Storage

Our Mission

At Pro-Guard Self Storage, it is our mission to provide customers with the very best in high quality storage solutions along with service that exceeds your expectations. We want to provide you with an affordable, secure, and convenient way to store your personal belongings and park your boat or RV.

Experience You Can Trust

Our management team has many years of experience in the storage industry. This means you are getting a knowledgeable and dedicated staff to help you with your most difficult storage needs. We always make ourselves available to answer your questions or provide you with tips and advice on packing your storage unit easy.

Innovative Services

Our staff at Pro-Guard Self Storage stays on top of the ever-changing storing industry. We do this so that we can bring you the latest in facility amenities and security technology. It is important to us that you get the very best in storage solutions anywhere in the community. We always offer innovative services to tackle your needs.

Customer Service

At Pro-Guard Self Storage, you receive customer care and service that can’t be beat. We work one-on-one with each customer to be sure you have exactly what you want and need. We know the business like no one else. This means we can anticipate your desires no matter what they might be. Our superior customer service is what makes us truly unique.

Mystery Member: Poulsbo Animal Clinic

Craig and Beth Adams purchased Poulsbo Animal Clinic in 2009, 6 years after graduating with WSU College of Veterinary Medicine’s Class of 2003.  Beth and Craig met and dated during veterinary school, in between endless classes, studying, and exams.  They got engaged on the banks of the Snake River after a romantic dinner of Arby’s sandwiches, followed by a bottle of celebratory champagne!   

Early on, Craig was determined to own a practice in Western Washington. After veterinary school, the Drs. Adams found jobs at clinics in Silverdale and Port Orchard. They quickly fell in love with the close-knit community and rural living that the Kitsap Peninsula offered.  After starting a family, it quickly became apparent that they needed to pursue practice ownership in order to be able to create their vision of a family-oriented veterinary hospital. Poulsbo Animal Clinic became the perfect opportunity!

Poulsbo Animal Clinic was established in 1952 and had three previous owners before the Drs. Adams purchased the business in 2009.  It was previously located in the building currently owned by Animal Emergency and Trauma Center on Lindvig Way. One of the first things the Adams noticed after resuming ownership was the friendliness and welcoming nature of the clientele. Naturally, there was some worry with a change of ownership – Poulsbo Animal Clinic’s clients are very devoted and loving pet owners and the health of their 4-footed family members is of utmost importance.  However, the Adams quickly gained their trust and loyalty through providing quality medicine, but in a personalized atmosphere. Lifelong relationships were quickly forged with these amazing families! Poulsbo Animal Clinic has truly become an extension of the Adams family!  For the Adams, this has been a dream realized!

The Adams are staying extremely busy with the clinic and with their 4 young children, Violet (11), Sawyer (nearly 10), Weston (nearly 8), and their newest addition, Louisa (18 months). Additionally, they have a boxer, 2 horses, 2 mini donkeys, ducks, bunnies, and chickens. They try to stay active in the community through involvement in the Poulsbo Rotary Club, Poulsbo’s Chamber of Commerce, their church, and many local youth activities. Beth is currently homeschooling the kids, which is a tremendous time commitment and has temporarily taken her away from the veterinary clinic.  Poulsbo Animal Clinic annually participates in Kitsap Humane Society’s Petswalk and PAWS of Bainbridge Island and North Kitsap’s Wagfest.

What one thing we would the Drs. Adams tell a stranger about Poulsbo Animal Clinic? In a nutshell, Beth sums it up with, “Poulsbo Animal Clinic is about family and strengthening relationships between people and their furry family members. We are about offering high quality medicine, but in a safe and non-corporate environment.  In a rapidly de-personalized society, we want to actually know our clients and help them through the lifetime of their pets and beyond.”

The Adams look forward to many more years of building relationships and practicing great medicine in the Poulsbo community!

After Hours: John Kenney, Lighthouse Cove Property Management & The Poulsbo Community Orchestra

The After Hours at John Kenney & Associates (co-hosted by Lighthouse Cove Property Management and the Poulsbo Community Orchestra) was an excellent event. The morning overcast cleared to reveal a clear blue evening sky. Dinner included delicious pulled pork sliders, fruit, potato salad and a variety of other wonderful sides. Viking Brass, a small group of Poulsbo Community Orchestra members, played familiar music and the seals were playing in the warm water. It was an evening full of good food, live music and business networking.

 

Mystery Member: Blue Sky Printing

Blue Sky Printing is a commercial printing company serving Kitsap County (and beyond) for over 40 years.  They offer offset printing, photocopies, and digital full color services. They produce business cards, letterhead, envelopes, forms, flyers, invitations and brochures as well as specialty items, including presentation folders, magnets, labels, banners, posters and die cut materials. Services run from walk-in copy/fax jobs to complicated custom press runs in large quantities.

Blue Sky Printing has been involved with many local events and activities…far too many to mention.  We enjoy being part of this great community and look forward to continuing our tradition of quality service and customer satisfaction.

Blue Sky Printing was established in 1974 and is located on Front Street in historic downtown Poulsbo.

www.blueskyprinting.com

[email protected]

 

Mystery Member: Timberland Bank

At Timberland Bank we specialize in full service community banking.  For 100 years we’ve provided flexible financial solutions that are timely, competitive and safe.  Timberland is a locally managed, well-capitalized bank, steadfast in our commitment to provide knowledgeable, personal service and solutions that help individuals, families and businesses achieve their financial goals.  We embrace new technologies like Online and Mobile Banking / Check Deposit, etc.  – all of which can add extra convenience; but our ultimate goal is to provide you with the personal service you deserve and are delighted to share with others.

 

Whether you call on the phone, visit us online, or stop in a branch, we are committed to making banking easier and more convenient for you.

 

Serving others is as much a part of our values today as it was when we were founded in 1915 in Hoquiam, WA.   Because we reinvest in what we value, we provide our time, talents and treasures to support local needs that help strengthen the communities we care about and call home.   These values continue to reflect in the message to our community and that is, “How can we help you?”

Timberland Bank means safe, local banking with people you know and trust.

 

Mystery Member: Paper Quirks

We are small stationery and paper store in the midst of Front Street.  We carry a variety of writing papers, Cavallini wrapping paper, fountain pens (and inks), boxed sets of cards, Rhodia pads, as well as gifts for writers (or wanna be writers).  In a time when technology surrounds everything we do, our shop strives to help people slow down and be more intentional with their words and remember that everyone loves to get happy mail.

We have started a Birthday List – it’s completely free!  All you need to do is give us your address and special date (birthdays are most popular) and we will send out an old school, drop in the mail, sort of card. It’s the simplest of actions that speaks the most, and we strive to build relationships – no matter how brief our encounter; we want you to continue to shop small and stay local.

Each month we curate a PaperCrate – we find our favorite things and fill a box with them for shipping (or pick up in the shop).  Filled with cards, journals, pens or other great things, it’s a great way to try products you might not otherwise purchase and fall in love with them!

Stephanie Hughes

PaperQuirks

Mystery Member: Kitsap Regional Library

Inspiration Starts Here.

We’re open 24/7 at www.krl.org

Make an appointment to meet with a librarian to learn how our online business building tools can help you take your business to the next level.

Access online videos and tutorials on Microsoft Word, Excel and Access through Microsoft Imagine Academy.

Explore demographic data, including radius searching, custom reports, charts, tables and maps through Demographics Now.

Find information on stocks and mutual funds through Morningstar Online.

Review Our Stories: the Kitsap County Community Assessment Report.

Read current full text articles from The Wall Street Journal

Download an eBook onto your phone to read and enjoy.

Download an eMagazine onto your phone to savor at your leisure.

Come inside during open hours

Meet with a Tech Volunteer to learn how to download digital materials onto a range of devices. (Registration required.)

Meet with a trained career specialist. (Registration required.)

Browse a print collection and take some titles home to read and enjoy.

View and discuss a film.

Read and discuss a book.

Meet an author.

Attend a class and engage with others.

Bring your child or grandchild to a Storytime and come away singing.

Dream more. Learn more. Do more. Be more.

Hiring for Nice

If the heart of all really valuable business is referrals, then “Hire for Nice” makes sense.  Consider it the foundational policy for any company wishing to survive in the blizzard of noise that is the competition for customers and clients.

I ran across an article this week on NBC News called “One CEO’s Secret to Success: Always Lead with Kindness” that triggered a distinct memory of this for me…

My family moved here a couple of years ago and the search for new services to replace the old began (you know: doctor, grocery store, barber, pizza delivery, pet sitter…). It had been awhile since my last haircut, so I looked up the local spots using Yelp and found Bon Cheveux with good reviews. I called and got an appointment for the next day (this would not happen where I lived before…if you didn’t book at least a few days out, you were out of luck). I arrived a few minutes early and was met by the friendly concierge at the front desk. As a newbie, she asked that I fill out a very short form for customer information. I then sat down with a cold glass of water for about 3 minutes before Tarra came out. I was ushered into the actual salon area and commenced the actual haircut. Since I was new, I had to try a describe what I was looking for, which isn’t easy for me (“Four weeks shorter than it is now” isn’t really much help…). Tarra was very patient and we worked through the process collaboratively, which was good. We also engaged in the usual chit-chat conversation, but it wasn’t forced and was enjoyable, especially when it would lapse for a few minutes into silence…..I’ve been to other barbers who are VERY uncomfortable with silence.

After the cut was over, I went back up front to pay. Within about 2 minutes I was met by Paige, one of the owners. She wanted to greet me and thank me for choosing them. We had a pretty interesting conversation about the challenges of a small business in the service industry like this. The stand out statement for me was when we were talking about her team. She said that she could get any number of people to cut and style hair, but that she hired “for Nice”. She focuses on the relationship that builds between the client and the stylist/barber.  She realizes that, without that, she has no business, so she ensures that the people she gets on her team fill that criteria.

I would agree.  I’m a regular now.

What would “Hire for Nice” look like in your business?

Article courtesy of Jeff Hora, Social Sapiens

 

Hire for Nice

Shining Stars

Shining Stars

Know a Shining Star in our community?

Nominate them today!

Each month we want to recognize the Shining Stars in our community that stand out above and beyond the rest!

  • Categories include:
  • Person of the Month
  • Volunteer of the Month
  • Young Leader of the Month
  • Organization of the Month
  • Business of the Month
  • Emerging Business of the Month

Click here to fill out the nomination form.

Welcome Kitsap Medical Weight Loss!

Welcome Kitsap Medical Weight Loss!

We’d like to welcome new members Kitsap Medical Weight Loss. KMWL treats overweight and obesity as a chronic disease, leading to sustained weight loss and restoration of health.

Uncorked is almost here!

Uncorked is almost here!

Its almost time for Uncorked! Poulsbo’s premier Wine, Beer and Food tasting event! Join us this Friday, August 5th at Hudson Auto Center on Viking Ave from 4–7 p.m. and get your tickets online here before they sell out! Here are some pics from past years Uncorked.

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A little rain won’t stop us! 

It’s just a drizzle! And we’ve got a lovely little space in the marina office, with a great spread. If you’re just getting off work head on by. And a big thanks to Liberty Bay Marina, Dr. Craig Benson & NatureWorks for hosting this month’s after hours!

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BeTech Newsletter | April 2016

BeTech Newsletter | April 2016

Published by BeTech, Poulsbo Chamber of Commerce’s new committee for Business, Technology, and Education

FROM THE CHAIR

It is with enthusiasm that I present to you the first issue of BeTech, newsletter of the Business, Technology, & Education Committee of the Poulsbo Chamber of Commerce.

Every day we hear about the Pacific Northwest’s strength in technology, particularly in the fields of aerospace, defense, biotech, and computer science. Just look at a map of the Puget Sound with pins on Seattle, Redmond, Everett, Auburn, and Kent. Little Norway is not far from these giants, and we have our share of manufacturing and technology right here. Paladin Systems, Trulife, and Watson Furniture may come to mind. These companies have been Poulsbo fixtures since the early 1990’s. Other companies have come and gone. Either they could not find the right formula to make it work, or the climate was just not right. Perhaps both. Enter Western Washington University. Their collaboration with Olympic College to provide four-year degree programs in our area is a game-changer, and it demonstrates our city leaders’ commitment to help prepare our kids for the future, and they don’t have to leave home. (Okay, parents, maybe we should look into building dorms.) It is also an investment in a skilled workforce needed to support Poulsbo’s emerging cluster of businesses in the tech sectors. BeTech will showcase these organizations in an effort to promote awareness of what exists in our backyard and our capacity to welcome new players. Learn more.

Welcome HiLine Homes, Upcoming Ribbon Cutting!

Welcome HiLine Homes, Upcoming Ribbon Cutting!

Have you seen the sign on Viking Way? You know the big, orange one that says HiLine homes right next to Hwy 308? Join the Poulsbo Chamber in a big welcome to HiLine Homes new sales office! There will be a Ribbon Cutting at HiLine Homes on March 24th at 5:15 pm. Then come for a BBQ and Open House on Saturday, March 26th! Mmmm – BBQ. The Poulsbo Chamber of Commerce is happy to welcome HiLine Homes to the Neighborhood! ‪#‎poulsbochamber‬ ‪#‎poulsbo‬ ‪#‎HiLine‬

Chamber March Luncheon

Chamber March Luncheon

Yesterday, the Poulsbo Chamber March Luncheon speaker and panelists discussed Human Trafficking – a topic that gerenerated interest countywide and left many in the audience with helpful tools to talk to their daughters about the reality of the sex slave trade in Kitsap County. For more on this important topic visit: http://www.bestalliance.org/employers-alliance.htmland watch the video. It may help you to better recognize the potential signs of human trafficking in and around your place of business. Thank you to everyone who attended. Together we can make positive changes in our community and protect our children. Photography courtesy of P5 Photography.