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Dec 07
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Support Our Local Restaurants image

Support Our Local Restaurants! List of Member Food & Beverage Businesses

By Beer & Cider, Bothell, Bothell Restaurants, Chamber News, Community Events, Community News, Events, Kenmore, Kenmore Restaurants, Uncategorized, Wine

Updated 4/28/23

Gift Cards Make Great Gifts!

Our local restaurants, food trucks, bakeries, wineries, and breweries are a big part of what makes our community so special!  You can enjoy a wide variety of your favorite foods and drinks in the many indoor and outdoor spaces, catered at your next event, and at home through take-out, curb-side pickup, and delivery services! Our local parks and trails make a great place to relax and enjoy your to-go meal as well. PLUS… you can buy Gift Certificates and merchandise at their websites to show additional support for our local businesses!

Below is a list of our Chamber Members.

Give them a call today!

Search by LocationSearch by Location

- RESTAURANTS, BAKERIES & FOOD TRUCKS -

Alexa’s Cafe & Catering – 425-402-1754
Downtown Bothell
Menu or Website

Bay Leaf Bar & Grill – 425-949-7555
Downtown Bothell
Menu or Website

Beardslee Public House & Brewery – 425-286-1001
Beardslee Area near UW Bothell & Cascadia Campus
Menu or Website

Bonefish Grill – 425-485-0305
Canyon Park Bothell
Menu or Website

Carolina Smoke BBQ – 425-949-8672
Canyon Park Bothell
Menu or Website

Cedar + Elm – 425-470-6500
at The Lodge at St. Edward Park
South Kenmore
Menu or Website

Chantanee Thai – 425-398-7300
Downtown Bothell
Menu or Website

Chick-fil-A, Bothell Canyon Park – 425-402-0201
Canyon Park Bothell
Menu or Website

Graham’s RoyalTea – 425-686-7670
Downtown Bothell
Menu or Website

Hillcrest Bakery – 425-486-5292
Downtown Bothell
Menu or Website

Ivar’s Seafood Bar – 425-892-8807
Canyon Park Bothell
Menu or Website

Jet City Pizza Bothell – 425-483-5555
Bothell / Woodinville Area
Menu or Website

Mayuri Foods / Bothell – 425-483-3000
Thrasher’s Corner Bothell
Menu or Website

McMenamin’s Anderson School Restaurants –
425-398-0122
Downtown Bothell
Menu or Website

Menchie’s Canyon Park Commons – 425-286-6039
Thrasher’s Corner Bothell
Menu or Website

Pasion Tequila – 425-488-1308
Downtown Bothell
Menu or Website

PinkaBella Cupcakes – 425-877-1957
Downtown Bothell
Menu or Website

Poquitos Bothell – 425-949-7680
Downtown Bothell
Menu or Website

Russell’s Restaurant – 425-892-8492
North Creek Business Park Bothell
Menu or Website

Sparta’s Pizza & Pasta House – 425-485-1227
Downtown Bothell
Menu or Website

Sushi Chinoise – 425-402-0200
Beardslee Area near UW Bothell & Cascadia Campus
Menu or Website

The Cottage – 425-286-6332
Downtown Bothell
Menu or Website

The Guest House – 425-402-4990
Kenmore near Saint Edward Park
Menu or Website

The Vet Chef (Food Truck) – 206-321-9984
Location Varies
Menu or Website

Tubs Gourmet Subs – 425-218-1518
Downtown Bothell
Menu or Website

Uncle Peteza’s – 425-487-9100
Canyon Park Bothell
Menu or Website

Vulpine Espresso (Food Truck) – 253-249-4950
Location Varies
Menu or Website

Zulu’s Board Game Cafe – 425-818-8122
Downtown Bothell
Menu or Website

- WINERIES, BREWERIES & DISTILLERIES -

192 Brewing Co. – 425-424-2337
Kenmore
Menu or Website

Cairn Brewing – 425-949-5295
Kenmore
Menu or Website

Barnard Griffin Winery – 425-671-1176
Woodinville
Menu or Website

Copperworks Distillery – 206-920-5142
Opening soon in Kenmore!
Menu or Website

Foggy Noggin Brewing – 206-553-9223
Bothell
Menu or Website

Goose Ridge Winery – 425-488-0200
Woodinville
Menu or Website

Long Cellars – 425-375-3105
Woodinville
Menu or Website

Milbrandt Vineyards & Ryan Patrick Wines – 425-949-7660
Woodinville
Menu or Website

Tinte Cellars – 425-659-4990
Woodinville
Menu or Website

- MORE WAYS TO SHOW YOUR SUPPORT -

  • Buy their branded merchandise & show it off around town! (t-shirts, coffee mugs, etc.)
  • Order a catered lunch to-go for your employees or family picnic
  • Go online and buy their gift cards/certificates to use or gift later
  • Reserve a private room
  • Leave an online review!

Thank you for supporting our local small businesses! Questions?  Please call the Bothell Kenmore Chamber of Commerce at 425-485-4353.

Jul 22
Love0

Video: Chamber Hosts 2022 State of the City of Kenmore Address

By Chamber News, Community Events, Community News, Education, Events, Kenmore, Legislative, Uncategorized

The Bothell Kenmore Chamber of Commerce was pleased to host its annual State of the City of Kenmore event to inform its members and the community of the latest news and information regarding Kenmore. Mayor Nigel Herbig and City Manager Rob Karlinsey outlined current Kenmore projects, recent accomplishments and challenges, Council’s history, mission and vision, and the future plans and primary goals for the city of Kenmore and its residents and businesses. We heard valuable and inspiring information, and were reminded of the many things the City has accomplished and about the many plans for Kenmore’s future.

This year’s event was held in person at Kenmore City Hall on July 19, 2022.  Free to attend and open to the community, guests were treated to a delicious lunch catered by Neighborhood Grills Catering. We thank the 65+ people that joined us to hear the 2022 address.

Watch the Video of the Address Below…

We extend a special thank you to Mayor Herbig and Mr. Karlinsey for their informative and inspiring presentations, Kenmore City Council, our Event Sponsors Port of Seattle and WhatsSup Stand Up Paddle & Kayak for their support, Dr. Eric Murray, President of Cascadia College for MC’ing our event, the City of Kenmore staff, and all our Board members and Chamber staff for their hard work and contributions.

Thank you to all who made our 2022 State of the City of Kenmore a successful event!

Kenmore, Washington

Click here to view this video with closed captions

Nov 01
Love4

Resources For Businesses & Employees Affected by Coronavirus (COVID-19)

By Bothell, Chamber News, Community Events, Community News, Education, Kenmore, Legislative, Uncategorized

Page Updated 11/1/2021

 

The Bothell Kenmore Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to supporting our local businesses with resources to assist you in working through the challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic.  If you have questions or need anything at all we encourage you to reach out to us.

QUICKLINKS

Updated Labor & Industries Requirements – WA State
Requirements for Employers in Public and Non-Public Spaces

County Statuses

King County – As of September 6 in King County, masks are required for everyone ages 5+ at outdoor events with 500 or more people, and continue to be required in public indoor spaces.  As of October 25 in King County, proof of vaccination will be required for everyone ages 12+ at outdoor events of 500 or more people, indoor recreational events or establishments, restaurants, and bars.  Learn more & find testing and vaccination locations here

Important Vaccine Verification Requirements and Information for King County Businesses & Organizations

Snohomish County – Effective August 12, everyone 5 years of age and up in Snohomish County must wear a face covering within indoor public spaces. This directive applies to indoor spaces that are open to the public, including retail, grocery stores, government buildings, and other businesses and places where members of the public can enter freely. It does not apply to indoor non-public spaces, including businesses, offices, and other places of employment with limited access. Learn more  & find testing and vaccination locations here

Important Information for Snohomish County Businesses & Organizations

Vaccine Locator Information

Vaccine factsheets available in 49 languages – “Getting Vaccinated For Covid-19” 
These Covid vaccine factsheets are easy to read, 2 pgs, and cover the what, why, how, and when of getting vaccinated. There is also assistance for those that are hearing or audio impaired.
– Visit the Washington State Department of Health’s website for the list of 49 available languages, and phone numbers for assistance. (Under the section “Information On”, click “Vaccine” then “Getting Vaccinated: Additional Languages”)
– To request this document in another format, call 1-800-525-0127. Deaf or hard of hearing customers, please call 711 (Washington Relay) or email: civil.rights@doh.wa.gov.

Special Bothell Permitting

Bothell Special Permit to Turn Parking Space Into Outdoor Dining
Download Permit Information Here

Bothell Special Permit to Conduct Business on Main Street Closed Area
Get More Information Here

⇒ NOTE: Our Resources page is now organized by category. We encourage you to scroll down and fully explore to locate all resources. New information will be noted.

Operating Your Business - Requirements, Restrictions, Checklists & Tips

Requirements (including Reporting Requirements) For Businesses, Non-profits, and Organizations

Video: What To Do If You Receive A Positive Case (for employers)

If two or more staff members develop confirmed or suspected COVID-19 within a 14-day period, Washington State requires businesses, non-profits, and other organizations to self-report this information to Public Health:

Safe Cleaning and Disinfection Guidance for Public Spaces – Washington State Department of Health

Communication Resources: Messaging Materials, Sample Social Media Postings & more – Centers for Disease Control
Find posters, notices and more conveying important messages about Covid-19 in multiple languages. You will also find sample social media postings on a wide variety of topics related to Covid-19.

Checklists and Guidelines For Conducting Business During Covid
Great resource for employers in planning your re-opening strategy.

Vaccines Toolkits For Businesses and Employers – WA State

Vaccines and Your Employees – What You Should Know – U.S. Chamber of Commerce
Articles with helpful information regarding Tax Credits, Vaccine requirements, and more.

Business Signage Toolkit
Print these posters for businesses for hand washing, mask requirements, etc.

WA State - Business, Employer & Employee Resources

WA State Coronavirus Response Resources Page
Extensive list of state resources for businesses and employees.

Unemployment Insurance, Benefits & Taxes

NOTE: You may still be eligible for unemployment insurance benefits depending upon your personal situation. However, the CARES Act and other federal programs that expanded and extended unemployment benefits expired the week ending Sept. 4, 2021. Visit the COVID-19 page to learn more. 

Employment Security Department
Main Page for Unemployment Information in WA State

Webinars: Introduction To Unemployment Insurance

Shared Work Program Overview
Video of Shared Work Program overview. Shared Work is a special program that helps businesses avoid layoffs. Video also available in Spanish.

WA State Employment Security Department: Layoff Assistance
“The Employment Security Department (ESD) can: Help businesses and workers facing major layoffs, and help prevent layoffs from happening.”

Washington State Assistance

Working Washington Small Business Emergency Grants

Small Business Flex Fund Loans
Small businesses and nonprofits can apply for a low-interest loan of up to $150,000 to finance expansion and growth as well as recover from the pandemic and subsequent economic slowdown. Learn more and apply here.

Other WA State Resources

WA State Department of Revenue
Business Relief During COVID-19 Pandemic

WA State Department of Health: Workplace and Employee Resources & Recommendations
Very good list of resources for managing the many aspects of Covid-19.

Updated Regularly: Businesses Currently Hiring – WorkSource Washington
Essential Workforce Openings (Health care, Grocery, etc.)
King County Jobs
Snohomish County Jobs

WA State Department of Commerce: COVID-19: Insurance For Businesses and Events

Washington Small Business Development Center (WSBDC) Business Resiliency Toolkit
Disaster planning information, guide, and emergency procedures workbook.

Covid-19 Legal Clinic For Small Businesses & Non-Profits – Communities Rise
Virtual clinic helps small businesses and nonprofits connect with a lawyer to navigate the legal issues they are experiencing due to Covid-19.

Governor Inslee's COVID-19 Resources & Stay Home Stay Healthy Guidelines

Watch All Governor Jay Inslee Press Conferences re: COVID-19 Coverage

 

Governor Inslee Announces Washington’s COVID-19 Recovery Plan – A Safe Return To Public Life
Originally published April 2020 – Learn what the Governor’s 3 Overriding Goals were in Recovery Plan.

Governor Inslee Issues Protections For High-Risk Workers
The proclamation provides older workers and those with underlying health conditions a series of rights and protections.

King & Snohomish Counties, & Local - Business, Employer & Employee Resources

Bothell – Special Use Permits for Outdoor Dining
City of Bothell is temporarily permitting restaurants to conduct outdoor dining in approved parking lots and closed roads.

King County Festivals & Events Grant Program
The Washington Festivals and Events Association will be helping King County administer a grant program to deliver $2 million in COVID recovery funds to the festival and events industry in the County.

Grants for Bothell Small Businesses
Check for status of grant fund. Grants are being provided for emergency financial support through the Bothell CARES Small Business Grant for qualified small businesses negatively impacted by the mandatory closing of non-essential businesses due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Key Indicators of Covid-19 Activity in King County
This dashboard provides a snapshot of several useful indicators, or measures, related to COVID-19 activity in our community and its impact on our health and our hospitals. The indicators help determine if current actions are adequate, need to be strengthened, or might be carefully relaxed.

Grants Available From Snohomish County For Small Businesses
Check status of grant program. Apply today to see if you qualify for up to $25,000 in grant funding for your small business located in Snohomish County.

Food Service & Restaurant Resources – Seattle & King County
Guidance for restaurant and food service businesses regarding COVID-19

Snohomish County Info For Business/Employers
An extensive list of resources and materials for employers and employees related to COVID-19.

Business Rent Reduction Request Template Letter (Open in WORD for editing)
Courtesy of Business Australia

Puget Sound Energy Announces Relief Measures 

Washington Health Benefit Exchange / Planfinder
The state’s health insurance exchange has opened a special enrollment period for qualified individuals who are or become uninsured.

Chamber Member’s Pay-It-Forward Campaign To Support Our Local Businesses
Although many of our members are experiencing financial hardship, others are asking how they can help. To service this request for kindness, we have created a way to “Pay it Forward” with a donation towards another member’s Chamber dues.

Workforce Education Opportunities
Get trained to go to work, find a new career, or advance your skills.

Federal & US - Business, Employer & Employee Resources

SBA Releases Instructions To Calculate & Apply For PPP Loan Forgiveness
Includes Forgiveness Application Form and instructions on how to apply for forgiveness of their PPP loans, consistent with the CARES act.

Paycheck Protection Plan

Webinar: “Ask the Experts re: PPP”
Designed to help get the answers you need to maximize the $284 billion Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) forgivable loan opportunity. Featured experts include representatives from the SBA and SBDC along with regional lenders from Business Impact NW and Banner Bank. Register to watch anytime

Webinar: Loan Forgiveness – What Every Business Should Know About PPP Loan Forgiveness
Hear from a panel of speakers about how business owners can set themselves up to best utilize their PPP funds – including tips and tricks to navigating this new program and best positioning your business.

SBA – Small Business Administration / EIDL

Coronavirus (COVID-19): Relief Options & Funding Programs – U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)

SCORE Coronavirus Small Business Resource Center – A mentorship & counseling division of the SBA
A central hub of up-to-date information and best practices for small business resilience at this time. The completely free resource center includes financial support resources, live and on-demand educational content and access to remote mentoring.

U.S. Chamber of Commerce

U.S. Chamber of Commerce: Workplace Tips for Employees
General workplace health and safety information.

Centers For Disease Control

CDC Guidance – Your Health

Grants & Industry Specific Relief Opportunities

Note: Some relief grants have open enrollment periods and many also offer additional rounds of grants, so we have left the links below available for you to review and check for availability. These sites also offer other resources that may be of assistance to you. We encourage you to familiarize yourself with these organizations and their services.

King County’s Revive and Thrive Together Program
King County announces $20 million in economic support for Arts, Culture, and Science Organizations, Independent Music Venues, and Independent Movie Theaters.

Working Washington Grants: Border Business Relief Program
Working Washington grants for businesses impacted by U.S.-Canadian border closure.

Sustaining the Humanities through the American Rescue Plan (SHARP) Grants
Intended for Washington State nonprofit organizations that provide humanities programming, these grants will help those organizations respond to and recover from the effects of the coronavirus. The grants are funded by the American Rescue Plan via the National Endowment for the Humanities.

WA State Dept. of Agriculture Small Business Assistance
Farmer’s Markets, Craft Breweries, Wineries & Distilleries, Agri-Tourism Farms – The WA State Dept. of Agriculture is currently accepting applications for small business assistance grants to help agriculture businesses and organizations in sectors that have been economically hurt due to marketplace disruptions created by the necessary public health measures during the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn more & apply

Restaurant Revitalization Fund/Grants
Learn more about this program to assist restaurants negatively affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Shuttered Venue Operators Grant
This grant provides emergency assistance for eligible venues affected by COVID-19.

City of Lynnwood Small Business Relief Grants
Check status of grant fund. Funds for eligible businesses may be used for existing operating expenses, including business rent or mortgage, payroll, utilities, inventory, marketing, and improvements to meet social distancing requirements.

Workforce Education Grants
Students enrolled in a professional/technical program may be eligible for these grants.

ArtsWA Grants
ArtsWA grants support the work of arts organizations across Washington State.

The Plate Fund
Food Service Workers
List of resources of many types posted by The Plate Fund.

GreenRope Offers Free CRM Programs For Qualifying Non-Profits
Customer relationships are key in business and especially during this unusual time. Find out if GreenRope is right for your business and check your qualification.

Google Ad Grants & Free Resources For Non-Profits

Restaurant Employee Relief Fund
Grants of $500 will be awarded on a first-come first-served basis starting April 2 to those individuals who meet the prescribed eligibility criteria, as reviewed and verified by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF).

James Beard Foundation Food and Beverage Industry Relief Fund
Open to independent restaurants with under 100 employees. Apply here for temporary relief funds up to $15,000.

Personal Protective Equipment & Medical Supplies

Medical Supplies:
WA State – If you can manufacture any of these items: gloves, gowns, swabs, masks, face shields, vials, etc. Washington needs you. Learn more here: https://coronavirus.wa.gov/how-you-can-help
FEMA – Interested in Selling or Donating Medical Supplies to FEMA? If you want to…
– Sell medical supplies or equipment to the federal government Email Here
– Are you a private company that wants to produce a product related to the COVID response Email Here
Further… The FDA is interested in hearing from manufacturers who may be able to help mitigate potential shortages of PPE by increasing U.S. availability of such devices. These manufacturers may Email FDA Here

Human Resources / Personnel Assistance

Now is the time to review your workplace policies regarding leave, working remotely, wage and hour, and so forth. Chamber Member HR Kinections’ Mia Wyatt is ready to assist you.

Working Remotely, IT Support, or Cybersecurity

If working remotely is in your plans then consider these resources and Chamber Members for assistance:

CMIT Solutions of Bothell, Lynnwood, and Seattle North

Greenlight Techs, LLC

15+ Tools & Resources For Working Remotely

Additional Coronavirus Community Resources

Find Vaccine Locations Here
Effective April 1, 2021 the State of WA has introduced a newer, more extensive and frequently updated website for finding vaccine locations. Vaccines are often available at your local pharmacy as well.

Support Our Restaurants! Rally behind these local restaurant, bakeries, wineries & breweries!
Here is a list with links to all our chamber members in the food and beverage industries. You’ll also find a list of different ways you can support these businesses.

Local Libraries Offer Online Resources For Professionals, Students and Families
Learn about the many FREE resources available ie. movies, magazines, audio books and so much more from King and Snohomish County libraries, and how to get a quick library card!

EvergreenHealth Patient – Vaccine/Coronavirus Information

HealthPoint – Coronavirus/COVID-19 Resources

Pacific Medical Centers – Vaccine/COVID-19 Resources

WA State Department of Health – Vaccine/COVID-19 Resources

Sign up to receive our Chamber emails and newsletter with updates.

 

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May 31
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Riley Baas Wins Bothell Kenmore Chamber's 2021 Student Scholarship

Chamber Awards 2021 Student Scholarship

By Bothell, Chamber News, Community Events, Education, Kenmore, Scholarship, Uncategorized

Congratulations to Riley Baas – the winner of the 2021 Bothell Kenmore Chamber Student Scholarship.

Riley is a senior in the Northshore School District. In addition to his studies, he has shown early leadership skills through his involvement with the Boy Scouts as a Senior Patrol Leader – mentoring younger scouts and volunteering at camp. He also works part-time while in school and was on his high school football team.

The future is looking bright for Riley. He is planning to attend Cascadia College for his Associates Degree, with the goal of starting his own business in financial consulting.

Riley is described by his peers as a go-getter, and the Chamber is very excited about supporting him, his future, and having him continue to contribute to our community. Congratulations again Riley!

 

About the Bothell Kenmore Chamber’s Student Scholarship

 

Our Chamber Student Scholarship was founded in 2008 by Gloria Davis. Her heartfelt vision was to provide scholarship funds to those students who have worked hard and want to further their education. This scholarship continues today through her son, JD Davis, Manager at Sundance Energy Services in Bothell. The Chamber is very thankful to JD for spearheading, supporting and advocating for this scholarship opportunity through our Chamber.

JD Davis Sundance Energy Services Bothell logo

 

 

We are also very thankful to: our Ambassador Committee Scholarship team for thoughtfully considering each of the compelling applications and choosing our winner; Laurie Broulette, a member of the counseling staff at SAS, who helps us coordinate our scholarship efforts, preps the students for our interviews and provides immense support to students; and to all our Chamber members who have donated – our annual $2,500 Student Scholarship would not be possible without your generous donations.

Donations to the Chamber’s Student Scholarship are gladly accepted year round through the Chamber office or website, or the Scholarship Foundation of Northshore.

Learn more and please support a student’s future by donating to the Bothell Kenmore Chamber’s Student Scholarship Program.

 

May 10
Love0

Video: Chamber Hosts 2021 State of the City of Kenmore Address from The Lodge at St. Edward Park

By Chamber News, Community Events, Community News, Education, Events, Kenmore, Legislative, Uncategorized

The Bothell Kenmore Chamber of Commerce was pleased to host its annual State of the City of Kenmore event to inform its members and the community of the latest news and information regarding current Kenmore projects, to look back at the accomplishments and challenges of 2020, and to discuss the future plans and goals for Kenmore and its residents and businesses.

This year’s event was held Live (virtually) from The Lodge at St. Edward Park on May 6, 2021. We were treated to interior views and some of the features inside these wonderful spaces at this newly opened lodge in Kenmore! We thank the 100+ people that joined us live online to hear the City of Kenmore Mayor David Baker & City Manager Rob Karlinsey deliver the 2021 address. The two outlined the city’s accomplishments, as well as the primary goals and focus for the city and council for 2021. We heard valuable information, and were reminded of the many things the City accomplished last year during extremely unusual times. We also learned more about the many plans for Kenmore’s future.

Video of Address is Available Below…

We extend a special thank you to Mayor Baker and Mr. Karlinsey for their informative and inspiring presentations, Kenmore City Council, and our Presenting Sponsor and location host The Lodge at St. Edward Park, Event Sponsors Puget Sound Energy and Port of Seattle, and Supporting Sponsors Cascadia College, Andrea Schafer, Edward Jones, WhatsSup Stand Up Paddle & Kayak, ABS Valuation and Heidi Braund, Real Living Northwest Realtors for their support. We also wish to thank both Carmin Dalziel, Chamber Chair, and Dr. Eric Murray, President of Cascadia College for MC’ing our event, all our Board members, and our Chamber staff for their hard work and contributions.

Thank you to all who made our 2021 State of the City of Kenmore a successful event!

Kenmore, Washington

Click here to view this video with closed captions

Apr 30
Love0

Video: Chamber Hosts 2021 State of the City of Bothell

By Bothell, Chamber News, Community Events, Community News, Education, Events, Uncategorized

The Bothell Kenmore Chamber of Commerce was pleased to host its annual State of the City of Bothell event to inform its members and the community about the latest news and information regarding current Bothell projects, a recap of the unique year that was 2020, and what plans and goals the city has for the future.

This year’s event was held virtually on April 28, 2021 and we thank the 100+ people that joined us online to hear City of Bothell Mayor Liam Olsen & Interim City Manager Erin Leonhart deliver the 2021 address. The two outlined the city’s accomplishments, as well as the primary goals and focus for the city and council for 2021. We heard valuable information, and were reminded of the many things the City accomplished last year during extremely unusual times. We also learned more about the many plans for Bothell’s future.

Video of Address is Available Below…

We extend a special thank you to Mayor Olsen and Ms. Leonhart for their informative and inspiring presentations, Bothell City Council, and our Presenting Sponsor Community Transit, Event Sponsors Puget Sound Energy and Port of Seattle, and Supporting Sponsors Cascadia College and Alexa’s Cafe & Catering for their support. We also wish to thank Carmin Dalziel, Chamber Chair for MC’ing our event, all our Board members, and our Chamber staff for their hard work and contributions.

Thank you to all who made our 2021 State of the City of Bothell a successful event!

We invite the community to join us on May 6 for the State of the City of Kenmore Virtual Event where Kenmore City Manager Rob Karlinsey will deliver the address. This event will be held online and advance registration is needed for access.  We look forward to seeing you there.

Click here to view this video with closed captions

Bothell, Washington

Jun 29
Love2

Communicating Your Reopening To Customers

By Bothell, Chamber News, Community Events, Education, Kenmore, Uncategorized

Written by: Elizabeth Tackett, Marketing Manager
Bothell Kenmore Chamber of Commerce

As a business reopening you likely have new information that needs to be communicated to your clients and customers. This new information might include: increased health and safety measures, different products, services, or procedures, new delivery or appointment requirements, etc.

Will customer’s choose you or someone else?  Do you have their confidence?

Due to Covid-19 your clients and customers likely have an increased need to feel confident that your business is taking measures to keep them healthier and safer. A solid communication plan conveys this message, and assists consumers in choosing where they will do business.  Therefore communicating the right messaging is critical to your business’ success moving forward. It could mean the difference between someone choosing your business or someone else’s.

Use these tips and ideas to help you craft, communicate, and deliver your newly updated information to your audience.

How To Craft Your Reopening Messaging

  1.  Document your polices, procedures, and changes that you want to communicate to your customers.
  2.  Streamline this information – think Twitter and make it short and concise.
  3.  When creating written formats, use bullet point, table, or infographic styles to keep the messaging on point.
  4.  When creating a video, keep it short – 2 mins max. You can use slides or photos with narrative, an employee addressing customers, or a video of employees performing their new tasks.
  5.  Where needed, create a one-sentence intro that conveys the “why” of your actions.
    Ie…  “We care about your safety and are pleased to be taking the following measures to keep you healthier.”
  6.  Tensions are understandably higher so if you need to ask them to do something be kind and polite, and offer an alternative.
    Ie… “To keep everyone safer we kindly ask that those experiencing symptoms please place your order online. We’ll deliver it to your car later.”

Notes:
Remember to show your empathy and understanding during this disconcerting time – your customers need to know you care.
Also, you may need to create different messages for different market segments. A real estate agent will likely need one message for buyers and another for sellers. And, your online customers will need different messaging from your in-store shoppers.

Where To Share

Websites

Adding your message to your website is a must. Home, Product and Appointment pages are the obvious choices, but don’t forget the less obvious such as Menus, Shipping details, About Us, and FAQs. Map your customer’s navigation and make sure all points along their paths are covered.

Several methods can be used such as:

  • Header banners inviting viewers to click through to a designated page, PDF, or video for full information.
  • Focused one-sentence messages at key points along the navigation path reminds customers of your additional efforts.  You want to keep confidence levels high throughout their visit and the sales process.
    Ie… Inform buyers on product and shipping pages that your employees wear protective equipment while handling and packaging their products.

Tip:  Increase links to your Contact Us page in case customers have additional questions.

Social Media & Other Online Identities

  • Share your message on all your social media channels
  • Share in industry and community groups
  • Post at regular intervals and update your message as needed.
  • Consider paying to boost your post or place an ad
  • Remember your review and referral sites, online ordering apps and stores, and other online identities.

Ask Your Customers To Share Your Messaging

Word-of-mouth is an important marketing tool so enlist your customer’s help in getting the word out about your reopening. Encourage customers to…

  • Share their positive experiences with your business
  • Check-in to your location on social media
  • Post photos/videos of the products they purchase
  • Leave positive reviews

Email Marketing, Text Messaging and Chats

  • Inform everyone on your email and SMS lists with a designated message.
  • Add messaging to future newletters/emails in the form of headers or footnotes inviting readers to click through to your designated page or video to learn more about your new policies or changes.
  • Remember your auto-responders! Update your contact us, order, messenger, and subscriber auto-responses.

Additional Customer Contact Points

Any place that your company comes into contact with a customer is an opportunity to remind them of your changes and increased efforts. Here are some additional places to add your message:

  • Appointment reminders and thank you notes
  • Signs on reception desks, and in waiting, dressing and treatment rooms
  • Point of entry and street signs
  • Shipping documents including packing slips and receipts
  • Telephone recordings
  • In-store announcements for large public businesses
  • Email signatures
  • Advertisements
  • Press Releases
  • As a guest speaker on a blog or show

Train All Customer Service Employees

Inform your customer-contact employees of any new methods, procedures, changes, etc. to build and maintain customer confidence, and to be able to respond to inquiries as needed.

  • Have employees verbally explain and physically show clients the changes as necessary. Lee Perry of Arena Sports Mill Creek, WA reminds us to “Give your customers a few extra minutes of attention – they will appreciate it. Show them where the hand sanitizers are stationed and tell them when they arrive what your company is doing for them.”
  • Consider preparing scripts or FAQ reference sheets for employees to keep on hand.

In closing…

Remember that the confidence level that your clients and customers have in your business will help determine your success moving forward. The above is not a complete list of ideas but will hopefully get your own ideas flowing and help you reopen with success.

If you have questions, please feel free to reach out to the Chamber. We’re here to support you.

~ Bothell Kenmore Chamber of Commerce

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Mar 15
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Local Libraries Offer Online Resources For Professionals, Students, and Families

By Bothell, Chamber News, Community Events, Community News, Education, Kenmore, Uncategorized

Our local Libraries – King County & Sno-Isle Counties – are fabulous, online, modern and free!  Improve your business skills, learn a new hobby, school your kids, read the latest best sellers, and entertain the family with their huge selection of online resources.

Enjoy choosing from audio books, eBooks, movies, TV shows, music, magazines, newspapers, encyclopedias, databases and more.  Best part… it’s easy!

STEP 1
   You’ll need the following:

Internet capable computer, tablet, or phone
Internet access

Please note: The following is for people who live in King, Snohomish and Island counties. If you live outside of these counties contact your local library system.

STEP 2
   Get an Online Library eCard, it’s an easy 1-page application, links are below:

King County Library Cards
Sno-Isle Library Cards

STEP 3
    Start exploring your cool downloads here:

King County Online Library
Sno-Isle Online Library

STEP 4
    Get the Apps if applicable to view/hear your selections (these links will be available inside the online libraries and will depend on what you’re accessing ie. books vs. music)


Questions?  Staff are available to help you via email, phone, and chat.

King County Libraries Support
Sno-Isle County Libraries Support

 

Photos courtesy of King County Library System and Sno-Isle Libraries.

Mar 06
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Important Community Notice

By Bothell, Chamber News, Community Events, Education, Events, Kenmore, Uncategorized

Our top priority here at the Chamber is the welfare of our community including our residents, visitors and businesses. We have been closely monitoring the current health situation and based on information and recommendations from state and county health departments we are making adjustments as follows:

Upcoming Chamber Events


Large Events

State of the City of Kenmore – Rescheduled from March 11 to May 13.
All tickets will be transferred and refunds will be available upon request through April 15, 2020.

March General Meeting – Cancelled.
We look forward to seeing you at the next General Meeting on April 23, 2020.


Small Events

Ribbon Cuttings – We will be checking with hosting businesses and will update you as soon as possible.

Committees – Updates will be sent to committee members / posted on our website.

April Events

We are keeping these on the schedule for now and will update you as necessary.


Chamber Office & Visitor Center

We will remain open between the hours of 10:00am and 2:00pm Monday thru Friday.  We will notify you of any changes.

We are offering flexibility to our team with remote working.
Interested in offering this to your staff?  View 15 + Tools & Resources For Working Remotely

 

Support Our Local Businesses

We all need to support each other during this challenging time. Please remember to shop local businesses – they need you! Stop in, shop online, or call to buy gift cards for future purchases.

 

Additional Resources

Resource List for WA State Businesses and Workers

Workplace and Employee Resources & Recommendations

WA State Department of Health

Snohomish County Info For Business/Employers

CDC Guidance for Businesses

EvergreenHealth Patient Update

 

If the Chamber can support you in any way, please let us know. We are here for you. Our contact information is below and we look forward to hearing from you.


Bothell Kenmore Chamber of Commerce
& Bothell Visitor Center
10120 Main Street, Suite 201, Bothell, WA 98011
425-485-4353
www.BothellKenmoreChamber.org

Please follow us for additional updates

Facebook.com/BothellKenmoreChamber
Twitter.com/BothKenChamber
Linkedin.com/company/7950118
Instagram.com/BothellKenmoreChamber

Mar 06
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15+ Tools & Resources For Working Remotely

By Bothell, Chamber News, Education, Kenmore, Uncategorized

In today’s business environment the desire and need to work remotely is growing. Planning and implementing now the right tools for your business to work remotely will increase transitional success, optimize productivity, reduce stress, and minimize costs.

There are many factors to consider – with each company and organization having different needs, but here are the Chamber’s suggestions for basics to get you started.

Tip!  Below this article you will find additional resources including names of programs and apps, and Chamber members who may be able to assist you.

 Virtual Phone Calls/Meetings/Conferences
Keep relationships strong with video-style calls and meetings (think Zoom.) Viewing a person’s smile, facial expressions and body language go a long way in maintaining good professional relationships. Multiple people from numerous locations can be participating simultaneously, and sessions can often be recorded for future reference. (See resources below.)

 VPNs
If your company uses its own network ask your employer if you can utilize a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to remotely access the company’s network.

  File Sharing
Eliminate many challenges of working remotely by storing your files and photos on cloud services. Doing so allows you to access them from other computers/devices as long as you have access to the internet. Tip: Avoid unsecured wi-fi when accessing company files, emails, etc. And be sure your anti-virus software is always up to date. (See resources below)

Sending Large Files
Not everyone will be on your file sharing cloud service or company network. For those times when you need to send a file larger than your email capacity consider sending via a large file program like Dropbox. This often happens when sending multiple photos. (See more resources below)

  Team Organization
Businesses can organize projects requiring team effort with programs like Microsoft Project or Trello. Create projects with to-do lists, resources, notes, and more. View progress of tasks, and updates will sync across all devices.

  Remote Desktop
Access your computer as if you are in front of it. (See resources below)

   Remote Policy
Establishing a clear understanding of employee and employer responsibilities, as well as a plan of work will go a long way in creating a successful work remote program.

Chamber member Jeff Chapman with Greenlight Techs, LLC shares his favorite resources…

“If your work allows you to work from home, or if you are too sick to go into work, here are a couple of things to think about. Most of these options work best if you plan ahead! If you have an IT department, ask what they can do for you!”

1. File Sharing – Work on all your files and have them already updated when you get back in to work. Or being able to work on the same file with your colleagues. Possibly at the same time!
a. One Drive
b. Drop Box
c. Google Drive

2. Meeting/Conferencing – Talk to your colleagues and get things figured out. Being able to share computer screens make these a better option than a phone call.
a. Skype
b. Google Hangouts
c. Facebook Messenger

3. Remote Desktop – This is a great option if you can do it. All your files and programs from your work computer.
a. Log Me In
b. Windows Remote Desktop

Questions? Need assistance with a successful remote work plan? Contact these Chamber Members for more information:

Greenlight Techs, LLC

CMIT Solutions of Bothell, Lynnwood & Seattle North

HR Kinections