Wednesday, September 3, 2025 | |
Sales Tax Expansion Taking Effect October 1
New Retail Sales Taxes to Hit Consumers
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Published in AWB Fast Facts, September 2, 2025
Photo Courtesy of AWB
Major tax change: Washington businesses and their customers will be hit with a new sales tax on services starting Oct. 1. Under Senate Bill 5814, many services that were previously not subject to the retail sales tax will now be taxed like a product you buy in a store. These services include:
- Advertising services
- Custom website development
- IT support and training
- Live presentations
- Temporary staffing
- Investigation and security services
Guidance for businesses: The state Department of Revenue expects to publish interim guidance statements on the sales tax expansion in the first two weeks of September. See the department’s latest guidance on how the tax change applies to existing contracts.
By the numbers: The Legislature passed a sweeping tax package this spring that increases state and local taxes by $12 billion over four years. SB 5814 is expected to increase taxes by $2.7 billion, while across-the-board B&O tax rate hikes will generate $5.6 billion — the largest tax increase in state history.
Read the article here
| | RECAP: August Membership Luncheon | Last week’s luncheon was buzzing with energy as the Greater Kitsap Chamber welcomed a wave of new members during our Annual New Member Showcase. August brought an especially exciting turnout, with many fresh faces joining the Chamber community. Attendees had the chance to connect during our networking time, and we were thrilled to have a special presentation by our board chair Susan Larsen on the Power of Networking. A warm welcome went out to several members attending their first luncheon: Dockstar, Active Vitality, Albers Marcovina Vista Gardens, Not your Wifey, Lost Barn Event Rentals, Cascade Natural Gas, Fairfield Inn & Suites - Bremerton, Fairfield Inn & Suites - Poulsbo, Hampton Inn & Suites - Bremerton, ConneX, NeverMiss, Tridentis, The Circle Leader, Easterseals WA, and Peninsula Dance Theatre. We were also proud to honor our August Members of the Month – Dana's Heating & Cooling. | |
Chamber: Off the Clock
Tuesday, September 16, 2025, 5:05pm
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September Membership Luncheon
Wednesday, September 24, 2025, 11:00am
| GKC Giving Away UW Football Tickets | | The GKC is giving away 20 tickets for the UW Football game on Saturday, September 6th at 8:00pm against UC Davis. Tickets are for GKC members only and awarded on a first come first served based. Email us here with your favorite fall activity or event in Kitsap for a chance to get a ticket! | | |
Save-the-Date: GKC Business Awards Gala
Friday, December 12, 2025, 5:30pm
| Nominations for the 2025 Business Awards Gala are now open! Help us celebrate the stars of our local business community and nominate a standout business, nonprofit, or festival by clicking here. | Highlight Your Business with Tabling Opportunity at Chamber Luncheon | | |
Accessible Healthcare with NICE
Business Health Trust Has You Covered
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Business Health Trust and Nice Healthcare are making it easier for businesses in Washington to offer high-quality, low-cost health care.
No more waiting rooms, no more long commutes. Nice Healthcare® is now available for eligible Business Health Trust members.
Easily book same-day care with the NICE app and access virtual primary care, mental health support, physical therapy and more at no cost to you or your employees. In-home visits are available in many areas starting in July.
Learn more about benefits and eligibility from our partner, Business Health Trust.
🔗 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.
| | New Members - Welcome to the Chamber! | |
New & Renewing Members for August
Thank you for your continued investment & support!
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BSD: Neighborhood Information Meeting
Wednesday, September 10, 2025, 5:00pm
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Brews, Bites, & Business
Tuesday, September 16, 2025, 5:00pm
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The Life Ledger Workshop
Tuesday, September 9, 2025, 5:00pm
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Fall for the Arts Auction & Gala @ OC
Saturday, September 13, 2025, 6:00pm
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Facility Maintenance Trades Training
September 15 - November 26, 2025, 2:00pm
| | 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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The Greater Kitsap Chamber is proud to recognize Kuresman Insurance Agency as our September Member of the Month! With 65 years of industry experience, Kuresman Insurance has been a steadfast provider of personalized insurance solutions and a proud supporter of the local community. The Kurseman team brings decades of experience and a deep commitment to helping neighbors protect what matters most.
Insurance with Integrity
Kuresman Insurance stands out as an independent agency offering personalized coverage through top-rated carriers. Whether it’s auto, home, life, or business insurance, their team works closely with clients to craft policies that fit individual needs and budgets. Their customer-first approach ensures that every policy holder receives thoughtful guidance and dependable protection.
A Legacy of Service and Support
For nearly seven decades, Kuresman Insurance Agency has grown alongside the Kitsap community, adapting to changing needs while staying true to their values. Their commitment to community is evident in their active sponsorship of beloved local events, including performances and programs at the Roxy Theatre, the annual Whaling Days festival, and much more.
We celebrate Kuresman Insurance not only for their business excellence but also for their ongoing contributions to the vitality of our region. Thank you Kuresman Insurance Agency for being Chamber members for over 50 years!
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Eggs & Issues Returns
Annual election forum beginning Oct 7th
| | The Chamber’s Eggs & Issues Candidate Forums are a long-standing tradition started by the Bremerton Chamber over 25 years ago. They are a moderated public forum that brings candidates together with the public over breakfast. The Greater Kitsap Chamber carries on that same tradition with our series of forums at the Cloverleaf Bar and Grill in East Bremerton. Following the same practices, we offer an opportunity for candidates to discuss issues and answer questions posed by the voters in attendance and moderated by a member of the Chamber’s Advocacy Committee. We strive to ensure that we provide an unbiased, judgment-free platform and will remain unfettered by the media. | | Business & Professional Development Committee | | Member Education & Training Resources | | |
SCORE: Paying Your Employees in WA
Monday, September 8, 2025, 2:00pm
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Hiring employees comes with significant responsibilities, including payroll management and tax compliance. This workshop covers essential topics such as wage laws, federal and Washington payroll taxes, record keeping requirements, and best practices for avoiding penalties. Whether you're handling payroll yourself or using a service, this session will equip you with the knowledge to ensure accurate and compliant payroll operations.
Registration Fee: FREE
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SCORE: Filing and Paying Taxes Electronically
Wednesday, September 10, 2025, 2:00pm
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Whether you are a Sole Proprietor, Partnership, Corporation, Charity or Non-profit, you can make your tax responsibilities easier with the IRS by electronic payments. Do you pay your taxes electronically?
This class covers:
- Benefits of Paying Electronically
- Electronic Funds Withdrawal
- Electronic Filing Tax Payment System (EFTPS) and EFTPS Payment Methods
Registration Fee: FREE
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SBDC: Profit-Driven Pricing
Thursday, September 11, 2025, 1:00pm
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Join us for a focused session on building smart pricing strategies that drive profitability. We’ll cover:
- Cost-Volume-Profit (CVP) analysis and break-even points
- Key factors in setting effective prices
- The Four P’s of Marketing and how pricing fits in
- A brief look at tariffs and their impact on global pricing
This webinar is ideal for business owners, marketers, and professionals involved in pricing decisions. Gain the tools to price with confidence and strategy.
The instructor, Ann Zimmerman, is a Washington SBDC Certified Business Advisor. She earned her BA in Accounting from Western Washington University and received her Master’s degree in Accounting and Tax from Washington State University. Ann has over thirty years of experience in business and has worked in various industries including retail, construction services, manufacturing, healthcare, and not-for-profit.
Registration Fee: FREE
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Evergreen Goodwill
Kitsap County Job Training and Education
August 11 - October 2, 2025
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Business Education Support & Training
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
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WTIA Founder Cohort 13
Application deadline: Friday, September 12, 2025
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WTIA Founder Cohort program helps approximately 20 venture-scale, seed-stage startups
grow and scale over the course of 6 months. The program blends virtual and in-person
elements and is open to early stage tech startups based in Washington. WTIA and their partners will provide founders with a roadmap that will help guide them through their next
milestones as they navigate increasing revenue, securing investment, and growing the team. The program kicks off on Friday, November 10, 2025. Apply here
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Biz Fair is Coming to Puyallup
Saturday, September 20, 2025
| | Business News & Resources | | SBA Offers Relief to WA Small Business and Private Nonprofits Affected by Drought | | |
Press Release, SBA, August 28, 2025
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Washington to offset economic losses caused by drought beginning July 29.
The disaster declaration covers the Washington counties of Chelan, Douglas, Ferry, Grant, Island, King, Kitsap, Kittitas, Lincoln, Okanogan, Pierce, San Juan, Skagit, Snohomish, Watcom and Yakima.
Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs including faith-based organizations with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.
EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills not paid due to the disaster.
"Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover," said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. "We're pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters."
The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.625% for PNPs with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months after the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.
To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.
Submit completed loan applications to SBA no later than April 6, 2026.
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The Small Business Guide
Linking you to success
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The Small Business Guide (provided by Business.Washington.gov) is broken into six sections, based on your stage of business. Whether you’re launching a new business, managing an existing one, or looking to expand, you’ll discover valuable information and resources here. The guide offers essential details, links to important resources, and a clear outline of the steps needed to start and run a business in Washington State.
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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 | | Understanding Stock Donations | | |
Published in Nonprofit Pro, August 28, 2025
Photo: Pexels/Artem Podrez
In the evolving landscape of nonprofit fundraising, stock donations have emerged as a powerful yet underutilized tool. Many organizations focus primarily on cash contributions, overlooking the substantial benefits that non-cash donations such as stocks can offer.
By embracing stock donations, nonprofits can unlock new avenues for funding, enhance donor engagement and promote long-term financial sustainability.
The Advantages of Accepting Stock Donations
Donating appreciated stocks allows donors to bypass capital gains taxes and claim a charitable deduction for the full market value of the stock. This dual benefit can make stock donations more appealing than traditional cash gifts. Stock contributions can change the game for nonprofits willing to embrace new ways of giving.
Despite macroeconomic headwinds and the tumultuous stock market, high-capacity donors are still willing to give these assets. Incorporating stock donations into your fundraising strategy diversifies income sources, reducing reliance on cash donations and enhancing financial resilience.
Read the article here
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Kitsap Community Foundation
Grant Cycle Open!
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Funding opportunities are now available for nonprofits serving Kitsap and North Mason Counties. Hosted by Kitsap Community Foundation, this annual grant cycle connects local nonprofits with resources to power their mission and strengthen our community. Applications are due by 5pm on Monday, September 15.
This cycle includes funding opportunities through:
- KCF Community Impact Grants – up to $5,000 for programs and operations that strengthen our communities
- Foster Care & Family Reconciliation – up to $7,500/year for two years for programs supporting youth transitions or family healing
- Youth Mentoring – up to $1,400 for programs pairing young people with supportive mentors
- Kitsap County Association of Realtors Foundation (KCAR) – New this year! Details coming soon
- Women’s Giving Circle of the Kitsap Peninsula – up to $10,000 for large orgs, $2,500 for small orgs serving women and/or children
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Tribal Expansion of Business
A Growing Part of Kitsap's Economy
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Published in The Kitsap Sun,
August 30, 2025
Image: Meegan M. Reid/Kitsap Sun
The two tribes with reservations located in Kitsap County have been diversifying their business enterprises in the past few decades. As recent economic studies have demonstrated the trends, tribal leaders have been planning further for their people and the future generations.
According to an economic impact study conducted by economist John Taylor, the Suquamish Tribe is one of the top five employers in Kitsap County, with 1,240 employees working across tribal government and a wide array of business enterprises.
In 2023, the tribe has created over 2,200 jobs in Kitsap County through direct, indirect, and induced economic effects of the tribe's entities: 882 jobs from the Suquamish Clearwater Casino Resort, 613 jobs from the Tribal Government, 234 jobs from its capital expenditures, 169 jobs from its convenience stores, 136 jobs from construction work, 124 jobs from Kiana Lodge and White Horse Golf Club, and 55 jobs from Suquamish Evergreen Corporation, according to the research.
Also, the Suquamish Tribe and its enterprises paid $86.5 million directly to 1,240 workers and 78% of whom were not tribal members, the study shows. It also generated estimated total gross impacts of $250.4 million in Kitsap County and $296 million statewide.
The research demonstrated a similar trend with another economic report conducted by Taylor and Amy Medford, analyzing the economic and community benefits of Tribes in Washington State, published this year, citing the latest 2023 data. The study shows that tribes in Washington State contributed at least 29,421 in direct employment, making them the 8th largest employer in Washington State. The tribes contribute over $1.9 billion in employee compensation, and at least 52,333 jobs statewide trace back to them.
Read the article here
| | Kitsap County 2025 Community Survey | | |
Kitsap County has launched The National Community Survey, inviting all residents to share their input on County services, quality of life, and community priorities. This marks the first time in two decades that the County has conducted a comprehensive resident survey, making it a historic opportunity for community members to directly influence local government decisions.
Why Your Input Matters Now
As Kitsap County faces an $8 million budget shortfall, resident feedback has never been more critical. The survey results will directly inform how County leaders prioritize services and allocate resources during these challenging financial times.
What the Survey Covers
The National Community Survey examines key aspects of life in Kitsap County, including:
- Transportation systems - traffic flow, public transit, bicycle, and pedestrian infrastructure
- Public safety services - police, fire, emergency medical services, and crime prevention
- Economic development - job opportunities, business climate, and economic health
- Housing and development - availability, affordability, and community design
- Environmental quality - natural resources, air and water quality, parks, and open spaces
- Utilities and infrastructure - water, sewer, storm water, broadband, and utilities
- Government performance - customer service, transparency, and value for tax dollars
- Community engagement - civic participation and neighborhood connections
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Open House: 6th Street Improvement Project
Tuesday, September 30, 2025
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Poulsbo Kids Day 2025
Saturday, September 6, 2025, 10:00am
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9/11 Day of Service and Remembrance
Sunday, September 7, 2025, 9:00am
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Bremerton Greendrinks @ Mise en Place Design
Thursday, September 11, 2025, 5:00pm
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Join us Thursday, September 11 from 5 to 7 pm at the elegant Mise En Place Design studio in Bremerton for September GreenDrinks—an evening of inspired mingling, delicious fare by Garnishing Chef, refreshing drinks, a fun raffle, and vibrant networking.
Hosted by Jennifer McLinko, ASID, NCIDQ, MFA, her award-winning team, and the Downtown Bremerton Association, the studio reflects the perfect fusion of modern playfulness and architectural respect. Step into their thoughtfully designed space, bring your favorite cup, and envision the possibilities for your own home while enjoying creative connections that linger.
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BSD: Meet the New Superintendent
September 11 - September 22, 2025, 5:00pm
| Drop by and get to know Dr. Slade McSheehy, the new Bremerton School District Superintendent! He looks forward to meeting and hearing from you! | |
Bridging Bremerton
Saturday, September 13, 2025
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Bainbridge Quilt Festival
Saturday, September 13, 2025, 10:00am
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Bobby Jo Valentine Concert
Saturday, September 13, 2025, 7:00pm
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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 Resort at Port Ludlow
Located at the Gateway to the Olympic Peninsula
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Nestled on the shores of Puget Sound, Port Ludlow hosts beautiful residential neighborhoods, a boutique waterfront inn, a 300-slip marina, and a championship 18-hole golf course. The award-winning Fireside Restaurant offers sweeping views of Ludlow Bay and a daily menu featuring the bounty of the local farms. For those seeking adventure, Port Ludlow offers a variety of activities to enjoy the wonders of Mother Nature. Take a kayak or a stand-up paddle board into the bay and explore the twin islands. Hike or bike some of the 30+ miles of trails and experience the magical views and abundant wildlife. If it’s a nice walk you’re in the mood for or looking for a place to set down a chair, head to the beach and soak in the views.
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Clearwater Casino Presents:
Hella Good: Grew Stefani & No Doubt Tribute
Friday, September 5, 2025, 8:30pm
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Coda: Led Zeppelin Tribute
Saturday, September 6, 2025, 8:30pm
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Bioluminescence Kayak Tour @ Port Gamble
September 2025
| | As summer winds down, Port Gamble Bay becomes lantern-lit—no electricity required. Glide through velvet-black waters alive with bioluminescent glow aboard sit‑on‑top kayaks, guided by naturalists and surrounded by untouched shoreline and midnight skies. Each paddle stirs the water into shimmering stardust beneath your hull. Perfect for all ages and experience levels, this two-hour, guided journey is as magical as it gets. Eight dates available in September. Last tour of the season is September 20, Olympic Outdoor Center, Port Gamble. | | |
BCT Presents: To Die For
September 5 - September 28, 2025
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Step into the gothic mansion of Carla Woods, a best-selling historical romance writer whose life is anything but dull. Carla has a penchant for playing dangerous mind games—especially with her secretaries. But when a mysterious, devastatingly handsome stranger appears on a dark and stormy night, the game takes an unexpected turn.
Is this charming newcomer merely payback from a disgruntled past employee, or could it be... love's destiny? As secrets unravel and the line between fantasy and reality blurs, Carla finds herself caught in a thrilling battle of wits where every twist could be her last.
Run Time: Approximately 2 hours.
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Kitsap Forest Theater Presents:
A Midsummer Night's Dream
September 6 - September 21, 2025, 2:00pm
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Concerts at Port Gamble:
Stephanie Schneiderman Trio
Saturday, September 13, 2025, 7:00pm
| Stephanie Schneiderman is one of the Pacific Northwest's most celebrated singer-songwriters, combining elements of folk, Americana, trip-hop and pop— into a beautifully dark and deeply introspective sound that is as lush as it is intimate. Her acoustic trio features Jenny Conlee (Decemberists) on accordion, Keith Brush (Blue Cranes) on upright bass, who lend their melodic indie-rock sensibilities to her songs to create a magnetic live performance that old and new fans will revere. | |
Port Townsend Film Festival
September 18 - September 21, 2025
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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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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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