Wednesday, October 22, 2025 | | |
Lock In Your Gala Sponsorship Today
Elevate your business or organization at this annual gathering of Who's Who in Kitsap Business!
| | Interested in elevating your business' exposure in the community? Looking to put your name on this year's Gala? Planning to bring a table-full of attendees? We have sponsorships available for all sizes of businesses across all industries that will provide a level of elevation in the Greater Kitsap business community like no other event. Interested in sponsoring or purchasing an ad in the Gala program? Contact the Greater Kitsap Chamber to secure your sponsorship or ad space today! | | |
October Membership Luncheon
Wednesday, October 22, 2025, 11:00am
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The 2025 legislative session was less than kind to small businesses in Washington. Hear what the issues are for 2026’s session and learn how your voice can be amplified by the Chamber on things that directly impact your business.
Paid parking is available on the Green Level underneath the Kitsap Conference Center. Please note there will NOT be assigned seating.
| | Get Tickets for the 2025 Business Awards Gala! | | |
Greater Kitsap Chamber & Leadership Kitsap: 2026 Kitsap Women's Summit
Call for speaker proposals coming soon!
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The Kitsap Women's Summit planning committee is proud to present Kitsap Women's Summit 2026: Breakthrough. Join us for our 3rd annual summit where we're diving into topics meant to create and sustain momentum - breaking through limits, beliefs, transitions and noise. This day-long gathering is curated for women, by women, and was brought to life by the need for real space for conversation, community, connection, and personal and professional development, amplifying women's voices and experiences across Kitsap County.
Interested in speaking at KWS 2026? Stay tuned for our call for presenters!
Business Health Trust is proud to serve as our 2026 Visionary Sponsor. For more information on how you can join them in sponsoring this event, please visit our website at www.greaterkitsapchamber.com/kitsap-womens-summit.
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RECAP: Pillar to Post Ribbon Cutting
| On October 16th, the Greater Kitsap Chamber was proud to celebrate a ribbon cutting with Pillar to Post – The Jarquin Team, a trusted home inspection company serving Kitsap County and beyond. As families and individuals move into our community, home inspections play a vital role in ensuring their new homes are safe, sound, and ready to create lasting memories. The Jarquin Team brings professionalism, integrity, and peace of mind to every inspection, helping new residents make informed decisions and settle into Kitsap with confidence. | |
One Week Early: November Luncheon
Wednesday, November 19, 2025, 11:00am
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We're excited to welcome back Tina O'Brien from the Kitsap Community Foundation to speak at our November Nonprofit Showcase!
If you are a nonprofit interested in tabling at the luncheon, please email us here to reserve your spot. There is no cost to reserve a table, but luncheon registration is still required for all attendees.
Regular registration opens next week.
| | | Highlight Your Business with Tabling Opportunity at Chamber Luncheon | | |
Accessible Healthcare with NICE
Business Health Trust Has You Covered
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Are you ready for 2026 healthcare costs?
Health insurance costs are going up up up, but BHT members are already offering their teams $0 primary care going into flu season and the new year. They don’t pay a dime to have this extra benefit. It’s included in their normal package.
With BHT + Nice, employees get $0 primary, preventive, and sick care, same-day virtual access to mental health and physical therapy, and 550+ common medications at $0 when prescribed by Nice. This isn’t a gimmick. Appointments usually happen within a day.
🔗 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 us 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! | | |
Lunch & Learn with Flare AI
Tuesday, November 4, 2025, 11:30am
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Join the Unique Experience Team
Job Opening for Sales Representative
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Position: Sales Representative
Unique Experience Custom Embroidery
Pay: From $16.66 per hour
Job Type: Part-time
Work Location: In person
Job description:
Job Overview:
We are looking for a motivated and personable Part-Time Sales Representative to join our team. This role is focused on calling past customers, following up on open quotes, and reaching out to local businesses to generate new opportunities. The ideal candidate is comfortable on the phone, organized, and driven to build strong customer relationships.
Pay per hour is negational based on experience.
Key Responsibilities:
- Contact past customers to check in, build relationships, and identify new sales opportunities.
- Follow up on pending or declined quotes to encourage conversions.
- Make outbound calls to businesses to introduce our products/services and expand our client base.
- Track customer interactions and update CRM/sales records.
- Meet or exceed weekly sales goals.
Qualifications:
- Previous experience in sales, customer service, or telemarketing preferred.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Comfortable making outbound calls and handling objections.
- Self-motivated, organized, and goal-oriented.
- Basic computer skills (experience with CRM software a plus).
Position Details:
- Part-time position (flexible scheduling available).
- Commission available
Education:
- High school or equivalent (Required)
Experience:
- Sales: 2 years (Preferred)
Ability to Commute:
- Bremerton, WA 98312 (Required)
Email Resumes To: ron@uniqueexperience1.com
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Chamber Member Exclusive Opportunity
Thursday, October 30, 2025, 12:00pm
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Kitsap History Museum: Fall for History
November 12- November 16, 2025
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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 Olympic College as our October Member of the Month! As a pillar of education and economic development in Kitsap County, Olympic College continues to make a lasting impact on our community.
Where Education Meets Opportunity
Olympic College has long been a driving force in Kitsap County’s growth and success. As one of the region’s largest employers, OC provides affordable, high-quality education and workforce training that directly supports local business development. Their graduates enter critical industries like healthcare, maritime, technology, manufacturing, and public service - helping to power the local economy from the ground up.
But Olympic College is more than just an educational institution - it’s a community partner. Their programs are designed to meet the real-world needs of Kitsap’s workforce, and their commitment to student success is evident in every classroom, lab, and training center.
Local Partnerships, Regional Progress
Olympic College works hand-in-hand with the Greater Kitsap Chamber, local school districts, and industry leaders to ensure their programs align with current workforce demands. From hosting Chamber events to supporting youth mentorship and business development initiatives, OC’s faculty and staff are deeply engaged in building a stronger, more connected Kitsap.
Their customized corporate training programs and apprenticeship opportunities allow local employers to upskill their teams without sending talent out of the region — a win-win for businesses and the community alike.
A Legacy of Impact and Innovation
This year, Olympic College received a transformational $1 million gift from the Tim Ryan family, expanding access to scholarships and educational initiatives for local learners. The college also launched new career pathways and advocated for modernization projects like West Sound Tech, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and regional development.
Olympic College truly embodies the Chamber’s mission of building a stronger Kitsap through education, collaboration, and economic opportunity. We are honored to spotlight their achievements and continued impact on Kitsap County.
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28th Annual Eggs & Issues
Thursday, October 23, 2025, 8:00am
| | This year we're expanding Eggs & Issues to North Kitsap with a candidate forum for the Poulsbo Mayoral Race. Join us on October 23rd at Vibe Coworks to hear from Dan Weedin and Ed Stern. | | Business & Professional Development Committee | | Member Education & Training Resources | | |
Virtual Small Business Lending Series
Office of Minority Women's Business Enterprises
Thursday, October 23, 2025, 10:00
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This series is an on-going effort to address access to capital for small businesses. Connect with small business lenders participating in the Linked Deposit and other loan programs.
Why should you attend?
- Learn about loan programs for your stage in business.
- Access to capital for early-stage businesses and those thinking about starting a business (Session 3).
- Access to capital for established businesses to fund business growth, mobilize new project(s), or stabilize cash flow fluctuations (Session 4).
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SCORE: Unlock the Power of Google Ads
for Small Business Success
Monday, October 27, 2025, 10:00am
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Leverage Google to put your business directly in front of people seeking your products and services. Google Ads offers fast, cost-effective solutions for businesses of all sizes. Learn about:
- Setting up a free Google My Business profile
- What Google Search Ads are and why they are valuable
- Search trends for your business
- How to budget for a campaign
- Common mistakes to avoid when running Google Ads
Registration Fee: $10
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CMMC-PNW 2-Day Conference
October 27 - October 28, 2025
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CMMC-PNW 2025 is the Pacific Northwest’s most targeted event for defense contractors preparing for CMMC certification. Whether you’re just starting or preparing for a Level 2 audit, this event gives you the clarity and tools to succeed.
What You’ll Learn
- The difference between FCI and CUI – and how to handle each securely
- How to determine whether Level 1 or Level 2 certification is required
- How to self-assess, prepare for third-party audits, and avoid common mistakes
- How to implement enclave solutions and isolation strategies to reduce cost and risk
- What Rule 32 and Rule 48 mean for your current and upcoming DoD contracts
- Step-by-step walkthroughs of real-world compliance strategies
CMMC-PNW 2025 will be hosted at the Clearwater Casino in Suquamish, WA, a scenic venue offering convenience and comfort for attendees.
A limited block of discounted hotel rooms will be available to conference participants. Group rates are valid through September 15, 2025, or until sold out. Be sure to reserve your room early once booking links are released.
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Business Education Support & Training
Tuesday, October 28, 2025, 6:00pm
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SCORE: How to Start Selling in Amazon's Store
Tuesday, October 28, 2025, 12:00pm
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In this session, discover if you’re ready to sell in Amazon’s store and how to get started. Learn the fundamentals of selling with Amazon including what to sell and when, how to list and deliver your products, and how to grow and scale your brand online. We will also share information on the resources and programs Amazon has to help enable small business success.
Registration Fee: FREE
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WSHRMA: Fall Leadership Conference
Wednesday, November 12, 2025, 9:00am
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Kitsap WIB: Business Planning Workshop 2025
Wednesday, November 12, 2025, 10:30am
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Join us for Kitsap WIB: Business Planning Workshop 2025. We want to help your business thrive & flourish next year!
Here's what you can expect:
- Valuable insights and tips to create an effective business plan for 2026.
- A supportive and collaborative environment where you can connect with fellow entrepreneurs and professionals.
- Access to some amazing business resources that can be a game-changer for your company.
Register soon because space is limited.
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Firebrand Unconference
Wednesday, November 19, 2025, 9:00am
| | Business News & Resources | | Federal Shutdown, Private-Sector Layoffs Lead to Increase in Unemployment Claims | |
Press Release, WA State Employment Security Dept, October 16, 2025
OLYMPIA – As the federal government shutdown continues, more federal workers are applying for unemployment benefits with the Employment Security Department. Through Wednesday, Oct. 15, 1,184 federal workers (about 79 per day) in Washington state applied for benefits.
Unemployment claims for federal employees are a small percentage of all unemployment claims, but they are more complex and take longer to process.
Federal workers impacted by the shutdown, whether furloughed or laid off, are encouraged to gather as much information about their wages (e.g., pay stubs or quarterly income reports) before applying for unemployment to help with quicker processing of their claims.
“Our No. 1 goal is to get people paid as quickly as possible,” Employment Security Commissioner Cami Feek said. “We understand the stress involved in being furloughed or laid off.”
Read about unemployment eligibility for federal workers on the Employment Security Department website.
Support for federal workers
Many supports and services are available for federal employees impacted by the government shutdown:
Growing unemployment claims workload
The federal government shutdown is adding to an already increasing unemployment case workload for Employment Security.
As of Oct. 1, the number of ongoing weekly unemployment claims in 2025 was at 2,784,359. That number has already surpassed 2019’s total of 2,638,984 and is on pace to pass 2024’s total of 3,270,098. Individuals can claim up to 26 weeks of benefits in a year.
For the week ending Oct. 3, 5,884 people applied for unemployment benefits, an increase of 1,094 from the previous week. For the week ending Oct. 10, the number jumped to 6,287.
This year, the state has experienced mass layoffs in many industries. As of Oct. 10, Employment Security had received notices for layoffs occurring in 2025 that total 15,063 non-seasonal workers. Employers submit worker adjustment and retraining notifications, or WARNs, when laying off employees.
October also begins the busiest time of year for unemployment claims. Seasonal workers (e.g., construction, agriculture) who are temporarily laid off during fall and winter months are now beginning to apply for benefits.
“Since early spring, we’ve seen a 20% increase in our ongoing unemployment claims after seasonal workers returned to work. That’s not typical. That tells us people are having a harder time finding jobs,” Feek said. “We’re looking at all options to serve our customers as quickly as possible.”
Employment Security will provide regular updates for the duration of the federal government shutdown on our website, our social media channels and through news releases.
Learn more about the full range of resources and programs available through Employment Security at esd.wa.gov.
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AWB: Interim Guidance on New Sales Tax
Tuesday, November 4, 2025, 10:00am
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As part of its advocacy for employers, AWB has coordinated a webinar with the Department of Revenue to provide timely, important information to businesses with interim guidance about the new sales tax on services that took effect Oct. 1. The new law imposes a sales tax on a wide range of services —from digital advertising, IT, and custom website development to temporary staffing, security services and live events. Learn more about the changes.
FREE AND OPEN TO ALL
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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. | | |
Workplace Rights Refresher
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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There's a lot to know as an employer - get clarity on, and learn about, some of the commonly misunderstood or lesser-known employee rights.
Immigration Status Coercion
Employers may not use immigration status to coerce an employee from engaging in protected activities or exercising labor law rights. Workers may file a complaint with L&I that is enforceable with civil penalties.
Job Posting Restriction
Employers cannot require a valid driver’s license as a condition of employment or include such a statement in a job posting unless driving is one of the essential job functions or is related to a legitimate business purpose for a position.
PSL for Employees
It’s fall which means it’s PSL time, and I'm not talking about Pumpkin Spice Lattes here; I'm talking about Paid Sick Leave. Don’t forget your paid sick leave basics:
- Employees accrue one paid sick leave hour for every 40 hours worked, paid at their normal hourly compensation
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You must provide a one-time written or electronic notification to each employee detailing their paid sick leave rights.
- Review what paid sick leave can be used for, which includes a few new additions:
- self or family’s health needs;
- child’s school or daycare closures for government-declared emergencies;
- absences related to domestic violence;
- and for absences resulting from the need to prepare for or participate in judicial or administrative immigration proceedings involving the employee or the employee's family member.
- Note: Family also includes anyone living with the employee where there is some expectation of care.
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Be sure to visit the Paid Sick Leave page to see all the requirements
| | Nonprofit News & Resources | | Top 10 Tells that Someone's Using ChatGPT | | |
Published in Nonprofit Pro, October 17, 2025
Photo: Getty Images/Kudryavtsev Pavel
The question among fundraising copywriters is no longer, “Do you use ChatGPT?” but “How do you use ChatGPT?” The artificial intelligence (AI) tool writers feared would take their jobs has quickly become too useful to ignore. It’s a classic case of “if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em.”
Fundraisers, in particular, should care — because if your appeals, thank-yous or campaign updates sound robotic, donors will notice it immediately. That doesn’t mean it’s not still coming for your job, though the consensus is to at least get something out of it while it’s still useful.
One challenge is that, like AI-generated images, AI-written copy is becoming easier to spot. So, here’s a very abbreviated guide to help writers who use it save face — and stay honest — by recognizing 10 of ChatGPT’s most overused rhetorical devices. As more people become familiar with them, the chances are greater that you’ll get busted if you over-rely on its bad habits.
Read the article here
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NAWA: Boards in Gear Workshop
Thursday, November 13, 2025, 10:30am
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Whether your nonprofit is just starting or is long established, getting your board in gear can help put your organization on a clear path forward. You are invited to join Nonprofit Association of Washington in Shelton on November 13 for a half-day Boards in Gear Workshop.
At this workshop, you will learn tips to build a solid foundation for your organization by strengthening your board's knowledge, performance, decision-making, and ability to take action. Thanks to support from the Washington Office of the Secretary of State and Community Foundation of South Puget Sound, you can attend for free!
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OC's 'State-of-the-Art' Remodel
at Poulsbo Campus Now Finished
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Published in The Kitsap Sun, October 17, 2025
Image: Peiyu Lin/Kitsap Sun
Olympic College has finished a widely anticipated remodel of its Poulsbo campus, creating what the school called a “state of the art hub” for its new programs in radiology, sonography and surgical technology.
The remodel, the first phase of a two-tiered expansion, is supported by funding from Kitsap County and Virginia Mason Franciscan Health and brings several new academic programs to the school. County leaders hope that helps address workforce needs among medical providers in Kitsap, including St. Michael Medical Center.
This “will allow Olympic College to educate and train highly-skilled workers who will fill desperately needed positions right here in our own community,” former Olympic College President Marty Cavalluzzi said at a groundbreaking ceremony for the Poulsbo remodel in February.
Five new academic programs have launched in phase one. Programs in radiology, sonography and surgical technology all debuted last month in Poulsbo, and now enroll 45 students (20 in radiology, 17 in sonography and 8 in surgical technology.)
A program in phlebotomy and a Corpsman/Medic to practical nursing pathway, a specialized offering specifically for retired Navy Medics and Army Corpsmen who can receive credit for their past work experience, debuted last year at OC's Bremerton Campus. Twenty-six students graduated from the phlebotomy program in 2024. Another two completed the medic to nurse pathway.
Read the article here
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Jack-O'-Lantern Jubilee
Bremerton Family YMCA
Thursday, October 23, 2025, 6:00pm
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Jack-O'-Lantern Jubilee
Haselwood Family YMCA
Friday, October 24, 2025, 4:00pm
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Strawberry Creek Community Mosaic
Saturday, October 25, 2025, 10:30am
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Kitsap Halloween Bash
Saturday, October 25, 2025, 1:00pm
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Calloween in Charleston
Saturday, October 25, 2025, 5:00pm
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Bring your crew to Charleston for this year's Calloween! Your friends, family, and neighbors of all ages will have a great time!
Things to look forward to:
- Dance in the street with DJ Vinny of Beats N' Cats Records spinning tunes and keeping the vibes right!
- Spooky stories from the stage from Kitsap Literary Artists and Writers
- Dancers at La Poblanita
- Haunted cars from American NW Recycling
- Old fashioned cake walk with treats from McGavin's Bakery
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DBA Trick-or-Treat Street
Friday, October 31, 2025, 5:00pm
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Strawberry Creek Ribbon Cutting
Saturday, November 1, 2025, 11:00am
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Kitsap Salmon Tours
Saturday, November 1, 2025
| Join us in late 2025 at 8 different stream sites across the county as we explore all things salmon with biologists, local environmental organizations, and trained docents. This FREE event offers exciting opportunities such as interactive activities, guided walks, and much more, with different activities at each site. You can discover local salmon species, their lifecycles, and the role you play in their survival. Bring your family, gather your friends, and prepare your questions. Join us in experiencing this remarkable migration firsthand. | |
Kitsap Handmade Market
Saturday, November 8, 2025, 9:00am
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Veteran's Day Ceremony
Tuesday, November 11, 2025, 9:00am
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Port Gamble Ghost Walk
October 2025 - April 2026
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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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Clearwater Casino Presents:
Hair Nation - 80's Top Hits
Friday, October 24, 8:30pm
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13 Til Midnight - Taylor Swift Tribute
Saturday, October 25, 8:30pm
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Francesco Crosara @ The Roxy Theatre
Thursday, October 23, 2025, 7:00pm
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Within/Earshot Jazz Festival 2025
Batuque: Journey Through Brazil
Friday, October 24, 2025, 7:00pm
| | Dive deep into the rich and multifaceted traditions of Brazilian music, showcasing its virtuosity, diversity, and depth beyond the familiar sounds of samba and carnival. From the pioneering work of Joaquim Calado to the vibrant rhythms of Brazil’s Northeast, each piece highlights the many musical currents that shaped samba and bossa nova. Select works are newly arranged by some of Brazil’s most talented rising stars, bringing fresh perspectives to this extraordinary tradition. | | |
Within/Earshot Jazz Festival 2025
Mark Lewis Quartet
Saturday, October 25, 2025, 7:00pm
| | Saxophonist and flutist Mark Lewis has enlivened jazz scenes from Seattle and San Francisco to Rotterdam and Paris, creating a vast and intensely stimulating body of work over four decades—including 1,800 compositions. Recent accolades include Cadence Magazine Top Ten Critics Poll for his album Naked Animals, as well as ranking #2 on alto sax and #3 on flute in the 39th Annual Jazz Station Awards for The New York Session, a collaboration with piano legend George Cables, bassist Essiet Essiet, and drummer Victor Lewis. | | |
Concerts in Port Gamble: Harry Manx
Saturday, October 25, 2025, 7:00pm
| Harry Manx has spent years fusing eastern musical traditions with the blues, switching effortlessly between conventional guitars, harmonica, and banjo and the decidedly different Mohan veena, a 20-stringed instrument invented by Manx’ Indian mentor Vishwa Mohan Bhatt. Manx is often referred to as the “Mysticssippi” Blues Man, because of his expertise in melding both East and West music together and therefore, “creating musical short stories that wed the Blues with the depth of classical Indian ragas”. | |
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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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