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Join us for Whaling Days this Friday, Saturday, and Sunday and visit the Greater Kitsap Chamber information booth!
The GKC Visitor Centers in both Silverdale and Bremerton will be closed at noon on Friday, July 25 in preparation for Whaling Days. Come on down to Old Town Silverdale to see us!
| | Health Officer Who Led Kitsap Through Pandemic Resigns, Warns of Challenges Ahead | | |
Published in The Kitsap Sun, July 21, 2025
Photo: Meegan M. Reid/Kitsap Sun
The health leader who guided Kitsap through the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Nathan "Gib" Morrow, announced this month he will step down as Health Officer of the Kitsap Public Health District.
Morrow, the county’s top public health official, spent five years at helm. Aside from the pandemic, he dealt with a growing skepticism of standard public health measures, like vaccines, a rapid increase in opioid overdoses and a period of transition and major staffing shortages for the county's lone civilian hospital.
“It hasn't been an unmitigated joy,” he said during an interview from his downtown office last week. "But it's been fantastic.”
Morrow committed to helping the county through the pandemic and says he has done everything he had set out to. He leaves the local health system in what he describes as a “transitional period.”
After two years of rebuilding and recovering from the effects pandemic, a new set of “monster challenges” await his successor. Rollbacks of federal health programs, like the Affordable Care Act and Medicaid, adopted under the Trump Administration, are anticipated to have devastating effects once they begin to take effect in the next two years.
Read the article here
| | July Luncheon is Today @ Olympic College | | Online registration is closed, but we welcome walk-ins (event fees still apply). | | |
Coffee with Mayor Greg Wheeler
Monday, July 28, 2025, 8:00am
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GKCVC Presents: Silverdale @ Sunset
Summer concert series returns to Waterfront Park
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Deep-Dive Business Series
Tuesday, August 12, 2025, 2:00pm
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Chamber: Off the Clock
Tuesday, August 19, 2025, 5:05pm
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Port to Port Pop-Up @ Blackberry Festival
August 30 & 31, 2025
| | Join us for a sail during Bremerton's Blackberry Festival! Catch the pop-up in Silverdale or Bremerton for a 1-hour sail along Dyes Inlet. Grab a bite to eat at one of Old Town Silverdale's amazing restaurants or check out the musical lineup and all things blackberry at the annual Blackberry Festival on the Bremerton Boardwalk. Reservations and ticketing coming soon! | | Highlight Your Business with Tabling Opportunity at Chamber Luncheon | | |
Accessible Healthcare with NICE
Business Health Trust Has You Covered
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One Stop for Quality Care
With Nice Healthcare®, Business Health Trust continues to make it easier for businesses to provide competitive benefits that improve employee well-being and save employees money, all while keeping costs under control.
Did you know:
- Nice has a 93.2 Net Promoter Score (NPS).
- 98% of patients rate their care as better than previous clinics.
Get started today and help your employees access quality care from the comfort of their home.
🔗 Webpage Link: https://businesshealthtrust.com/products/nice-healthcare/
Questions? Contact BHT!
(425) 201-1972
nice@businesshealthtrust.com
Not a BHT member? Are you ready to build a better benefits package? Visit bhtquote.com to learn more and get a free quote.
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Renew your membership today to ensure your benefits as a member of the Greater Kitsap Chamber! Questions about when to renew or how to upgrade your membership? Need a new membership window cling or digital badge? Contact David now!
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Missed a previous edition of the Chamber's Community Connections?
View all the past issues on our website HERE.
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Broadband Boost: 21 New Fiber Nodes
Coming to Kitsap County
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Grand Opening: Lulu D. Haddon Park
Friday, July 25, 2025, 1:00pm
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Stewardship Work Party
with Great Peninsula Conservancy
Saturday, July 26, 2025, 10:00am
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Member Preview: West Sound Film Festival Sneak Peak @ The Roxy
Thursday, July 31, 2025, 7:15pm
| | The West Sound Film Festival would like to extend an invitation to Chamber members to attend a sneak peek on the eve of this year's festival. The Roxy is center stage in Bremerton's new Quincy Square. Free parking in the Washington Avenue Garage. Come early and visit the Roxy's bar for a great selection of beer, wine, & Spirits. Plus, a wonderful selection of zero-proof cocktails. | | Register Now: LKPI Fall Seminars | | Leadership Kitsap's Premier Institute is thrilled to announce the fall seminar schedule with registration now open. These hands-on workshops are built for leaders across Kitsap and their teams to learn and grow together. Space is limited, so reserve your spot now! | | |
Changing Faces, Changing Places
Share your business news today
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Has your team recently welcomed a new hire, celebrated a promotion, or marked a retirement? Kitsap Business magazine's Changing Faces, Changing Places section highlights the people powering our local business community. Chamber members are invited to share their staff updates for inclusion in an upcoming issue.
Send your announcements to news@kitsapbusiness.com and let us help you recognize the faces behind your success.
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For 80 years, Kitsap Regional Library has been a cornerstone of learning, connection, and community across Kitsap County. Founded in 1945, this beloved institution has grown alongside the community it serves, evolving far beyond books to become a vital hub for information, inspiration, and engagement for residents of all ages.
A proud member of the Chamber since 2001, Kitsap Regional Library’s commitment to Kitsap County is unwavering. From its humble beginnings, the Library has expanded to nine locations and a robust digital presence, ensuring that no matter where you are — from Bainbridge Island to Bremerton — you have free access to knowledge and community resources that enrich everyday life.
At the heart of the Library’s mission is a simple yet powerful belief: everyone deserves access to the tools they need to dream, learn, and grow. Whether it’s a child discovering the joy of reading, a job seeker learning new skills, or a lifelong learner exploring new ideas, Kitsap Regional Library provides programs, spaces, and resources that make it possible.
A Vital Community Partner
Kitsap Regional Library doesn’t just serve the community — it’s a vital part of it. By partnering with local schools, community organizations, and businesses, the Library supports literacy, lifelong learning, and local economic vitality. The Library’s free programs and welcoming spaces create a place where people connect, share ideas, and build a stronger, more resilient Kitsap County.
As the Library celebrates 80 years of service, its impact is visible in every branch and every person who walks through its doors or logs in online. From book clubs that spark new friendships to workshops that help people learn new skills, the Library’s influence ripples through generations.
Looking Ahead: A Community Choice This August
In August 2025, Kitsap County voters will have the opportunity to help shape the Library’s future by voting on a levy to maintain and expand essential services. This important measure will help ensure that Kitsap Regional Library can continue to grow with the community, invest in new programs and technology, and keep library spaces welcoming and accessible for decades to come.
Kitsap Regional Library’s story is one of connection, progress, and unwavering dedication to Kitsap County. As they celebrate 80 years of service, they invite the community to look forward together — continuing a legacy of learning, belonging, and discovery for generations to come.
To learn more about Kitsap Regional Library, its services, or the upcoming levy, visit www.krl.org or follow them on Facebook.
| | Business & Professional Development Committee | | Member Education & Training Resources | | |
SCORE: QuickBooks Online Basics
You Need to Know
Friday, July 25, 2025, 9:00am
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Are you an aspiring or established business owner looking to get started with QuickBooks? Are you trying to figure out what you’re doing but keep getting lost? Do you like bagels? Well, then this is the workshop for you!
What you will learn:
- Customer sales and payments
- Supplier purchases and payments
- Banking and Chart of Accounts
- Reporting from QuickBooks Online
- Best practices and common mistakes
Please note that this workshop is only training on QuickBooks Online and not QuickBooks Desktop.
Registration Fee: FREE
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SCORE: Increase Sales and Profits with Pricing and Distribution Strategies
Tuesday, July 29, 2025, 1:00pm
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You’ve developed a wonderful new product or service and understand the costs but how should you price it? This workshop is part of SCORE’s Small Business Essentials series. We start by reviewing different distribution and channel strategies and help you choose the method that best gets your product or service in front of your satisfied customers. The rest of the workshop is focused on pricing, and we start by covering some pricing basics. Then we review a detailed process to determine how you can determine the price of your product. Since pricing, a service is very different than a product, we have a special section the covers the separate process for pricing your services.
Registration Fee: FREE
| | Business News & Resources | | |
Economic Outlook Mixed as
Policy Uncertainty Weighs On Retail
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Published in the Washington Retail Association
The U.S. economy remains on steady ground despite growing concerns over new tariffs and evolving federal policies, according to National Retail Federation (NRF) Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz.
In NRF’s July Monthly Economic Review, Kleinhenz highlighted strong consumer and business spending but emphasized that “anxiety and confusion” tied to trade policy, immigration, and regulation are creating uncertainty for retailers and the broader economy.
While gross domestic product (GDP) fell slightly in the first quarter due to a spike in imports ahead of tariff announcements, private sector spending continues to show resilience. Core retail sales, excluding autos, gas, and restaurants, rose 3.9% year over year through May. Personal income and consumer spending also posted solid 4.5% gains in May, with inflation edging up modestly to 2.3%.
The labor market remains stable, adding 147,000 jobs in June with job openings exceeding the number of unemployed. However, Kleinhenz cautioned that sustained tariff increases could eventually drive up consumer prices and impact job growth.
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The Office of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises (OMWBE), in partnership with the Washington State LGBTQ Commission, is proud to announce the launch of its newest certification category: LGBTQ Business Enterprises. This important milestone expands Washington’s commitment to inclusion by formally recognizing businesses that are at least 51% owned, operated, and controlled by individuals who identify as LGBTQ+.
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Quick and interesting reads for employers, employees,
local leaders, and everyone in between!
| | The Greater Kitsap Chamber is proud to serve as a resource partner with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries. Stay tuned to this section quarterly for education, resources and more from L&I. | | |
Seasonal Safety
High Temperatures and Wildfire Smoke May Trigger Protections for Workers
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Be Prepared
Hot temperatures and wildfire smoke are making for hazardous conditions for outdoor workers in our state.
The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) is reminding employers and workers of the rules to protect workers and what weather conditions trigger extra precautions.
The state heat rules include protections for outdoor workers that kick in at 80 degrees Fahrenheit, with additional requirements in the kind of high heat that much of the state is currently experiencing.
State rules require employers to prepare in advance to protect workers from wildfire smoke by putting together a response plan. They must plan for how they’ll communicate with workers, train employees to report smoke, and coordinate medical treatment for employees who say they’re experiencing symptoms like shortness of breath, nausea, chest pain and dizziness. They also must inform their employees of their right to medical care without retribution.
Employers can use indexes like the NowCast Air Quality Index (AQI) to track air quality. As air quality gets worse, employers must provide increasing protections.
Go online to learn more about L&I’s heat rules and wildfire smoke rules.
Ergonomics Ideas Bank
A withdrawal from the Ergonomics Ideas Bank won’t cost you a thing. In fact, with sprains and strains being a frequent and costly source of workplace injury claims, the idea bank is likely to save you money!
- Search by industry or hazard type to find all sorts of resources on ergonomic safety.
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And, don’t forget you can always schedule a free consultation!
Visit L&I's Safety & Health page for a wealth of information and resources!
| | Nonprofit News & Resources | |
The Nonprofit AI Revolution: Why the Human Touch Matters More Than Ever
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Published on NonprofitPRO.com, date July 17, 2025
Photo: Getty Images by Yuichiro Chino
The nonprofit sector isn’t safe from the significant shifts happening as a result of artificial intelligence (AI) and predictive large language models. Donors and nonprofit leaders realize that transformation isn't on the way — it's here. And the organizations that will survive will adapt, as will their fundraisers.
That said, nonprofits tend to overlook the fact that while AI can write appeals, rank prospects and predict giving patterns, it can't create and build human relationships that drive transformational impact. As a result, the organizations that will thrive and keep their doors open don't blindly invest in technology but in their professional teams to boost the right skill sets, particularly for social and emotional intelligence. Philanthropy is human!
Read the article here
| | Bremerton Looking at Potential of Installing 'Speed Cameras' Nears Schools and Parks | | |
Published In The Kitsap Sun
Photo: Larry Steagall/Kitsap Sun
Bremerton commuters may face increased penalties for speeding, potentially as soon as next year, as the city considers installing speed traffic cameras in up to five locations near schools and parks.
During a review of the city's red light camera contract in a Public Works Committee meeting July 15, city staff presented potential sites, near nine schools and three parks, for speed zones that would be enforced by traffic-monitoring cameras. In compliance with state law, speed zones may be implemented to monitor traffic within 300 feet of certain public properties.
Public Works Committee Chair Jane Rebelowski said the city has received complaints of speeding near schools and parks. The use of speed cameras, according to Rebelowski, could help enforce speed limits in these areas frequented by children and families without creating more work for front-line resources from the Bremerton Police Department.
Read the article here
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Silverdale
Expect daytime and nighttime delays on Silverdale Way NW (from Bucklin Hill Rd to Waaga Way) and NW Bucklin Hill Rd (from Silverdale Way NW to Blaine Ave) due to a road and stormwater improvement project. Work will take place Monday through Friday and is expected to be completed by fall 2025. Visit the project website for details.
Expect delays on Provost Rd NW between NW Shelley Dr and NW Newberry Hill Rd for a Silverdale Water utility project.
Expect delays on NW Eldorado Blvd between Newberry Hill Rd and Eldorado Pl NW for construction work related to a private development. Traffic control in place during work hours.
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Annual Keyport Garden Tour
Saturday, July 26, 2025, 11:00am
| Come visit Keyport and enjoy a self-guided tour through gardens and art studios. Pick up a map at the Keyport Improvement Club booth by the Bible Church and wander at your pace through gardens and studios. A $10 suggested donation benefits the Keyport Improvement Club. | |
Coffee Oasis Day at the Tacoma Rainiers
Sunday, July 27, 2025
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You're invited to a fun and meaningful afternoon at the ballpark! Come cheer on the Tacoma Rainiers while supporting youth experiencing homelessness in our community. This special afternoon is a great opportunity to enjoy a game, connect with others who care about the community, and support The Coffee Oasis.
Your $20 ticket will include:
+ Admission
+ Hot dog
+ Chips
+ Bottled Water
+ And you support youth programs and shelters at The Coffee Oasis
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Summer Nights at the Bay
The Stacy Jones Band
Tuesday, July 29, 2025, 6:00pm
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Crafting Community
Comunidad de Manualidades
Tuesday, July 29, 2025,11:00am
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Tuesday, July 29, 2025
11:00am - 12:00pm
Location: Kitsap Regional Library Bremerton - Sylvan Way
Do you have sewing, beadwork, knitting, or another project that you're working on? Come craft a community with us. Join us for tea and conversation while we work.
Traiga su proyecto de costura u otra manualidad y platiquemos mientras trabajamos. Se servirá te. Cada martes a las 11.
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CK Performing Arts Center Presents: Cats
August 7-10 & 14-17, 2025
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Masks Still Available
Free at the Greater Kitsap Chamber & Visitor Center
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The Greater Kitsap Chamber still has some supplies available if your local business is in need of KN95 masks. Pick up your supply at both GKC locations today. Available while supplies last.
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The Point Casino & Hotel
Play with passion, relax in style!
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The Point Hotel’s design is rooted in a style known as Coast Modern, an adapted contemporary design that has been modified for the Northwest region. The hotel takes these elements to create a unique expression based on this Coast Modern tradition, adapting key architectural ideas from the longhouse and other traditional tribal architecture with the all-cedar plank construction that is historically known to the Port Gamble S’Klallam.
One of the project’s key design goals was to let the building blend harmoniously into the woodland setting of the site, thereby complimenting nature, not overshadowing it. By blending contemporary styling with traditional elements adapted from the history and culture of the Port Gamble S¹Klallam, The Point Hotel pays tribute to the Tribe¹s heritage while acting as a modern respite for guests and visitors.
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Whaling Days
July 25, 26, 27, 2025
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Clearwater Casino Presents:
Rail - Winner MTV's Basement Tapes
Friday, July 25, 2025, 8:30pm
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Whiskey River: Lynyrd Skynyrd Tribute
Saturday, July 26, 2025, 8:30pm
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Summer Concerts on the Lawn
MJ The Illusion: Michael Jackson Tribute
Thursday, July 31st, 2025, 7:00pm
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Ride the Tides
Enjoy the Kitsap Peninsula Water Trails
| | Kitsap Peninsula National WaterTrails (KPNWT) offer residents and visitors year-round access to enjoy water-related activities; from kayaking around bays and coves to sailing around the entire Kitsap Peninsula. On May 2014, the KPNWT was designated by the US Department of Interior part of the National Water Trails System, the first in WA State and the only natural, saltwater trail in the USA. Today, the 371 miles of shoreline that encompass the KPNWT is a major attraction for a variety of water-related activities – kayaking, SUP, boating, scuba diving, fishing, wildlife viewing and leisure strolls along public piers and beaches. | | |
Silverdale @ Sunset: Ranger & the Re-Arrangers
Wednesday, July 30, 2025, 6:30 pm
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West Sound Film Festival
August 1, 2, 3, 2025
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Summer Art Market 2025
Bainbridge Island Museum of Art
August 1, 2, 2025
| BIMA’s annual summer art market is back! This summer, the plaza outside BIMA transforms into a vibrant marketplace the first weekend of August! Browse booths featuring handcrafted, locally-made treasures, enjoy live music, and soak in the beauty of the Pacific Northwest—rain or shine! | |
Immersive Tour Offering Visits to
Historic & Cultural Suquamish Sites
June - Sept 2025
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Stay in the know with what's happening for events
in Central Kitsap by checking out and liking the
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Have something to share? CLICK HERE to submit stories and
events for our weekly Community Connections!
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Bremerton Office (360) 479-3579 | 705 Pacific Avenue in Downtown Bremerton
Silverdale Office (360) 692-6800 | Kitsap Mall
PO Box 1218 Silverdale WA 98383
If you need assistance, please contact us directly.
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