Diane's Desk
Dive into the heart of Renton's business community with "Diane's Desk", a monthly video podcast hosted by Diane Dobson, CEO of the Renton Chamber of Commerce. This platform is your go-to source for the latest in events, news, legislative updates, and insights into the Renton Chamber of Commerce. Each episode aims to inform, engage, and connect with business owners, community members, and anyone interested in the dynamics of Renton. Available here and on our YouTube channel, 'Diane's Desk' offers unparalleled access to the developments and opportunities shaping our vibrant community, directly from the desk of Diane Dobson.
OCTOBER 2024
This month's Renton Chamber of Commerce show is hosted by Kevin Hayes (Director of Finance), Ashley Dobson (Events Ambassador), and CEO Diane Dobson. It is reflecting on a successful September and gearing up for a packed October filled with exciting community-focused events.
One of the highlights discussed was the recent Honoring Our Veterans Golf Tournament on September 30th, which marked its fourth year and was the largest and most attended yet. The day was filled with interactive games, sponsors, and veteran resources, and plans are already in motion for next year’s tournament, with a focus on expanding veteran services even further.
Looking ahead, the Renton Chamber is excited to participate in the Seattle Sounders’ Chamber Night on October 19th, a prelude to Renton’s role in the 2026 World Cup. This event will help businesses prepare for the growth and excitement that the World Cup will bring to the area.
October is also Domestic Violence Awareness Month, with the Chamber hosting educational sessions every Tuesday throughout the month. These sessions aim to provide resources and raise awareness about this critical issue, offering hope and support to those impacted.
On November 2nd, Renton Neat will return, showcasing local distilleries and market vendors at the Renton Pavilion Event Center. This popular tasting event has grown to become Washington's largest distillery tasting, with opportunities for attendees to purchase bottles at a tax-free bottle shop.
The Chamber continues to emphasize the importance of supporting local businesses, especially those affected by the current strike in the Renton area. They encourage the community to patronize small businesses, particularly in hospitality and food service, that rely on daily foot traffic from workers currently on strike.
For more details and to stay updated on upcoming events, including Wine Wednesday on October 9th at Puget Sound Cider Co., and the 2024 Savor the Season with The Red Tea Room, Drum Roll Wine and the Hampton Inn, browse our event calendar. With a full list of activities and opportunities to engage with the community, the Renton Chamber of Commerce remains a vital hub for local businesses and residents alike.
SEPTEMBER 2024
The Renton Chamber of Commerce, led by CEO Diane Dobson, is gearing up for a busy September filled with exciting developments and events. One of the biggest announcements is Renton’s growth, with over 8,000 residential units currently permitted for development. This influx is expected to bring between 8,000 and 24,000 new residents in the coming years, with affordable and market-rate housing popping up in areas like Sunset Highlands and The Landing. Notably, a new business-traveler-targeted hotel is under construction next to Topgolf, and Winco will be taking over the former Fry's location, bringing much-needed grocery options to a previously underserved area.
On the event front, the fourth annual Honoring Our Veterans Golf Tournament will take place on September 30th, offering veterans free entry along with engagement from various veteran services. Additionally, the Chamber’s Fab Women Networking group, Fem Allies in Business, sponsored by Jaylen Gilmore of First Security Bank and C & F Foster, will be gathering on September 12th—an excellent opportunity for women in business to connect.
Renton Chamber continues its partnership with Business Impact Northwest to offer business mentorship and coaching. The drop-in session for September will also take place on September 12th, providing resources and guidance for local entrepreneurs.
One of the Chamber’s newest partnerships is with No En Japanese Restaurant, where Chef Yumiko will be teaching sushi roll-making classes. For a small fee, participants will learn to make two different types of sushi rolls, enjoy appetizers and soup, and take home everything they create. It’s an incredible opportunity for team-building and culinary exploration.
Kevin, the Chamber’s Finance Director, took some time out to enjoy lunch at JP’s Bar Room and Grill—famous for their Taco Thursdays and the best chili in town! If you're craving a great meal, JP's is the spot to visit. Speaking of food, don’t miss Women’s Wine Wednesday on September 18th at Drum Roll Wine in downtown Renton, with delicious bites provided by Premier Meat Pies, another fantastic local business and Chamber member.
For those looking to test their problem-solving skills, this month’s After Hours event on September 19th will be held at Renton’s first escape room, SureLock Escapes. This fun event is a perfect chance to network while experiencing some thrilling team-building activities.
The Renton Chamber is also addressing serious community concerns this month. On September 19th, they are partnering with Warren to host a Human Trafficking Awareness Training for nonprofit and business representatives. Additionally, Renton’s new Homeless Task Force will meet on the second Tuesday of each month at 2 PM, with their next meeting on September 12th.
Other notable events include the Education Committee meeting on September 9th at 8 AM and the Legislative Committee meeting on September 17th at 8:30 AM. The legislative meeting will be virtual, and businesses are encouraged to participate to help shape the East King County Chambers’ legislative priorities.
September is also back-to-school month! The Renton Chamber sends well wishes to all students and teachers, and we look forward to seeing everyone at the Chamber’s events throughout the month.
AUGUST 2024
The Renton Chamber of Commerce, led by CEO Diane Dobson, is buzzing with activity this August. One of the highlights of the month is Renton becoming the headquarters for the Seattle Sounders and the Seattle Reign, the women’s soccer team. The new field and complex are part of a broader initiative to create 52 new community soccer fields by 2025, aiming to make the sport accessible to all.
In July, the Chamber welcomed several new members, including Renton Chiropractic Accident and Injury Specialist, Chrisler Dodge Jeep Ram of Renton, JLT Web Design and Digital Marketing, The Wine Alley, and more. These businesses add to the diverse and thriving community in Renton.
August is packed with exciting events. The Chamber’s monthly meetings continue, including the Ambassador Meeting and Education Committee Meeting. Notably, the brand-new Homeless Task Force Meeting will debut on August 13th, focusing on solutions to homelessness in Renton.
Community events include Women’s Wine Wednesday on August 14th at Cedar River Cellars, with Smoking Monkey Pizza providing a pizza bar. The After Hours event on August 15th at Merrill Gardens features a beautiful rooftop setting.
On August 21st, the New Teacher Breakfast welcomes 200-300 new educators with a celebration featuring community leaders from the Renton School District. Valley Cities Behavioral Health will address the fentanyl crisis on August 23rd, presenting strategies to combat its impact.
Additionally, Renton’s vibrant community can look forward to a sushi roll-making class on August 24th with Yumiko, a master sushi chef, at New Zen Sushi Restaurant. Participants will learn to craft their own rolls while enjoying appetizers, drinks, and food.
Mark your calendars for the fourth annual Honoring Our Veterans Golf Tournament on September 30th. This event offers veterans free entry and a chance to engage with 18 different veteran services along the course.
The Chamber is also offering members of other chambers a 20% discount to join the Renton Chamber, with waived registration fees.
These events are open to all, fostering connections within the community and providing opportunities to discover local businesses and get involved.
JULY 2024
CEO Diane Dobson shares this month's highlights and happenings:
Renton Area Nonprofits Unite (RANU) offers two valuable monthly meetings for non-profits. The general meeting, held on the fourth Wednesday of every month, provides a platform for organizations to connect and share experiences. This month, Sarah McNeish from the Multi-Service Center will be leading a session on effective fundraising strategies for non-profits. Another key RANU initiative is the Homeless Task Force meeting, which brings together businesses, non-profits, community members, and even first responders like RSU security, the Renton Police Department, and the Renton Regional Fire Authority. Their collaborative efforts aim to develop practical solutions to address homelessness in Renton.
Some upcoming events include Community Coffee Chat. Partnering with Valley Cities Behavioral Health, the Chamber will host a discussion on August 23rd to explore the impact of the fentanyl epidemic on the community. Port Unplugged (July 17th) is a chance to gain insights into the state of Washington's ports, including the airport and the Port of Seattle, at the Pickering Barn in Issaquah. The Multi-Chamber Mixer will be on July 24th. Expand your network at this after-hours event co-hosted with the Kent Chamber and Seattle Southside Chambers. This year, it will be held at Ovation Senior Living in Kent. Our elevated distillery event, Renton Neat, offers an exclusive opportunity to learn from local distillers and savor unique tastings at this top-shelf experience on July 27th.
Looking ahead, we have the New Teacher Breakfast on August 21st. Welcome new educators to the Renton area with a celebratory carnival-themed breakfast at the Pavilion. Show your appreciation to veterans by participating in our Honoring Our Veterans Golf Tournament on September 30th, or sponsoring a veteran's free entry. Sip and stroll through the Landing at the Wine Walk event on October 5th, and join us on November 2nd for Renton Neat: Classic Edition. This distillery event promises to be one of the largest in Washington State. Women's Wine Wednesday occurs monthly. Network and connect with other businesswomen at local Renton wineries and wine shops.
The Renton Chamber of Commerce welcomes everyone to participate in their events, regardless of membership status. These events are a fantastic way to connect with the community, discover local businesses, and find opportunities to get involved.
JUNE 2024
June 2024 at the Renton Chamber of Commerce is going to be vibrant and dynamic, as shared by CEO Diane Dobson. Dive into Renton's bustling business scene and discover the diverse activities fostering community and business growth.
Business Impact Northwest Drop-In Business Coaching on June 13th offered personalized advice for entrepreneurs. The Body Session for Task Accountability on June 18th at Macadons helped participants achieve their business goals. Networking peaked with the After Hours event on June 20th at the Hampton Inn's rooftop, catered by the Red Tea Room, drawing around 100 attendees.
The Blood Drive and Health Fair on June 21st at the Chamber allowed participants to donate blood and explore various health services. Ribbon cuttings celebrated the Richard Group on June 25th in the Renton Highlands and Aristo Health Care on June 28th downtown, a new 16-bed inpatient behavioral health transition facility.
Looking ahead, mark your calendars for the Governor Candidates Reception on July 9th and the Renton Neat Top Shelf Experience on July 27th, featuring local distilleries. August 21st brings the New Teachers Breakfast at the Renton Pavilion, and on September 30th, the Honoring Our Veterans Golf Tournament. The Wine Walk at the Renton Landing on October 5th is another event not to miss.
Stay tuned for more updates and join us in celebrating, connecting, and contributing to Renton's lively business landscape.
MAY 2024
May 2024 at the Renton Chamber of Commerce has been a dynamic month, filled with engaging events and new initiatives as outlined by CEO Diane Dobson. Dive into the vibrant business scene of Renton and discover the diverse array of events and opportunities that are fostering community and business growth.
This month's highlights feature the Rosie Rourke Home Show, proudly sponsored by local businesses including Biz X and Chipper Plumbing, which brought together businesses and customers in the home improvement sector. The educational front was equally bustling with the CTE Tour at Lindbergh High School, showcasing programs in culinary arts, marketing, and child development.
Looking ahead, the Chamber is hosting its ninth annual career fair at Renton Technical College on June 5th, promising numerous employment opportunities from over 80 employers. Food enthusiasts will enjoy offerings from the Soul Fusion food truck, known for its delectable catfish sandwiches.
Diane also shared exciting news about Nurse Staffing Solutions' latest achievements under Sylvia Chambers' leadership, who is actively working towards launching a mobile training unit to broaden access to healthcare education.
Moreover, the Chamber is preparing for the grand ribbon cutting at Body Language Studio in May and celebrating the best of local businesses at the Best of Renton Awards. Not to be missed is the Jamaican-themed After Hours event this May, hosted in collaboration with Molly's Caribbean Travels and Evergreen Market.
Stay tuned for more updates including the honoring of our veterans and the governor's reception, as well as unique networking opportunities that highlight Renton's thriving business community. Join us to celebrate, connect, and contribute to our lively and diverse business landscape.
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