Wednesday, March 25, 2026 | | 2026 Legislative Session Wrap-Up | | |
Published in the WA Retail Association, March 19, 2026
Photo courtesy of WRA
The 2026 Washington State Legislative Session adjourned on March 12, concluding a fast-moving 60-day session shaped by budget pressure, targeted policy changes, and continued debate over the state’s regulatory direction. In total, 267 bills passed the Legislature this session.
For retailers and the broader business community, the session reinforced several clear trends that are likely to carry into the interim and beyond.
Budget Pressure Remains a Major Concern
State budget and affordability challenges were a defining issue this session and are likely to remain front and center moving forward. Proposals involving new revenue, taxes, and fees were a core theme this session and are expected to continue.
Lawmakers Revisited Existing Laws
A significant share of the session focused on addressing unintended consequences from prior legislation and recent court decisions. For retailers, this included efforts to improve clarity, restore balance, and make compliance obligations more workable.
Environmental Compliance Continues to Grow
Washington continues to move forward with policies tied to recycling systems, product stewardship, and broader supply chain obligations. Many of these requirements phase in over time, but they point to growing long-term compliance expectations for businesses.
AI and Technology Policy Is Still Emerging
Discussion around artificial intelligence, data use, and automated decision-making gained traction this year. While some proposals advanced, other policy in this area is still developing and lawmakers are clearly building toward broader proposals in the future.
Looking Ahead
Many of the biggest issues debated this session remain unresolved, and lawmakers have signaled strong interest in continuing work during the interim. Washington Retail will remain engaged and continue advocating for balanced, practical policies that support retailers of all sizes across the state.
| | RECAP: Kitsap Women's Summit | More than 200 women from across the region came together on March 19th for the 3rd Annual Kitsap Women’s Summit, jointly hosted by the Greater Kitsap Chamber and the Leadership Kitsap Foundation. The 2026 Summit was themed “Breakthrough” with speakers covering a variety of topics from understanding differences to working through conflict. New to the summit this year was the introduction of breakout sessions, allowing for more speakers to participate. Next year’s event will be held on Thursday, March 18, 2027. | We're Hiring: Join the GKC Team! | |
March Membership Luncheon
Wednesday, March 25, 2026, 11:00am
| | Parking is ONLY available on the Green Level underneath the Kitsap Conference Center. If you park on the first level (Anthony's or the Hampton Inn), you may be subject to tickets and towing. | |
Social Security 101: Just the Basics
Thursday, March 26, 2026, 11:30am
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Chamber: Off the Clock
Tuesday, April 21, 2026, 5:05pm
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Armed Forces Day 2026
Saturday, May 16, 2026, 10:00am
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First celebrated in 1948, the festival includes the nation’s largest and longest-running Armed Forces Day parade. This long-standing event is designed to thank the men and women who wear the uniform of the United States of America Armed Forces and recognize their service and commitment to our country and community.
Applications to participate are now open!
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Join the GKC Board of Directors
Applications open through April 8th
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Are you interested in increasing your engagement with the Greater Kitsap Chamber and the larger business community? We are currently accepting applications for a variety of volunteer leadership roles at the Chamber, including: Chamber Board of Directors, Greater Kitsap Chamber Foundation Board of Directors, and Committee Members.
If you are interested in being considered for service, please submit an application no later than April 8, 2026.
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Accessible Healthcare with NICE
Business Health Trust Has You Covered
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Care that fits real life.
Benefit updates can be a blur in the new year. So start with the part that is easiest to use.
Nice Healthcare is one place to begin for primary care, mental health, and everyday needs.
For many common issues like colds, sinus, UTIs, rashes, or a quick checkup, employees can start with Nice instead of heading to urgent care first. Visits are designed to feel like real care, not a rushed stop. There’s also a Care Team chat thread, so follow-ups and questions stay in one place.
🔗 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! | |
Women Investing in Kitsap's Future
Monday, March 30, 2026, 10:00am
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Curious about angel investing? Join us for coffee and conversation about how women can help shape the future of local businesses in Kitsap.
Kitsap’s entrepreneurial ecosystem is growing fast—but the funding infrastructure to support it is still catching up.
Women made up 64% of applicants to the 2025 Matchstick Lab Micro Business Accelerator, a powerful signal of the entrepreneurial energy being led by women here in our region.
Yet when it comes to decisions about where investment capital flows, women remain underrepresented. Today, women hold only about 15% of decision-making roles in venture capital and represent roughly 25% of angel investors.
Angel investors often provide the earliest capital and mentorship that help new businesses get off the ground and grow.
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Moving Into Spring
Thursday, April 16, 2026, 5:00pm
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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 Details Property Management as our March Member of the Month. Locally owned and operated, Details Property Management has become a trusted resource for homeowners, renters, and investors across Kitsap County. Since joining the Chamber, Details Property Management has demonstrated outstanding engagement, strong community advocacy, and a consistent commitment to elevating the voice of local business.
Advocacy in Action
Details Property Management plays an active role in supporting and elevating the voice of small businesses in the region. Earlier this year, owner of Details Property Management, Heidi Hartman, participated in the Association of Washington Business (AWB) Hill Climb, helping represent Kitsap County in conversations with state leaders. Her involvement demonstrates a business-wide commitment to advocacy and to ensuring that the needs of local employers, property owners, and community stakeholders are heard at the state level.
Active Partners in Community Connection
The team at Details Property Management continues to be a friendly and reliable presence at Chamber events, engaging with peers and contributing to the collaborative spirit that defines our business community. Their ongoing participation helps strengthen relationships, foster new partnerships, and support a thriving and connected Kitsap economy.
A Business Built on Trust and Stewardship
With a focus on responsive service, transparent communication, and excellent care for both property owners and tenants, Details Property Management consistently demonstrates what it means to be a dependable community partner. Their dedication to quality, professionalism, and local engagement makes them a valued member of the Chamber and a standout business in Kitsap County.
| Business & Professional Development Committee | | Member Education & Training Resources | | |
SBDC: Say It Better. Sell It Faster. With AI.
Thursday, March 26, 2026, 11:00am
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Part 2: Attract the Right People with the Right Message "Your Messaging Blueprint"
Smarter Messaging & Marketing for Real-World Business Owners.
Live, hands-on marketing series for small business owners.
This is the second of a three-session series where you will learn how to turn your business into a content machine—one AI prompt at a time. No fluff. Just real-world output you can actually use.
Presented by:
Steve McCaslin is a Washington SBDC Certified Business Advisor and is located in Coupeville, WA. Steve is a retired Naval Flight Officer and has spent 20+ years in the corporate world in sales, strategy and business development, business consulting, corporate training, and leadership development training, mentoring, and coaching. He is a graduate of the University of Georgia with a BS in Agriculture, where he majored in Poultry Science.
Registration Fee: FREE
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SCORE: Patenting - An Inventor's Point of View
Tuesday, March 31, 2026, 1:00pm
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Patenting is expensive! By preparing a high quality draft you can reduce attorney costs. This workshop shows the steps to write this draft.
Registration Fee: $10
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SBDC: Human + AI
Creating Authenticity In Your Online Presence
Tuesday, April 7, 2026, 1:00pm
| What if we told you the word of the year starts with "A", but is NOT AI? It's "authenticity". People are starved for it online. After a million AI pitches (that curiously haven't solved all of your business problems), business owners have become jaded. Yet both AI and authenticity are key for your online presence, and businesses that can utilize both are ahead of the game. Attend this workshop to learn about how you can remain authentic online while also using AI. For the latter, we will focus on real problems many businesses face, and when it makes sense to emphasize a human touch. | |
Veteran Administration Homebuyer Essentials
Monday, April 13, 2026, 12:00pm
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World Cup Ready: Capture the Crowd
Wednesday, March 25, 2026, 11:00am
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Get your business ready for the surge of global consumer attention coming this summer. With billions of fans expected to follow the 2026 FIFA World Cup and more countries represented than ever before, this summer promises nonstop excitement and a flood of globally engaged customers seeking places to eat, shop, gather, and celebrate.
This practical training session with Erin Combs of Artio Strategies and Todd Olsen of Mother Bear will equip small businesses and retailers with clear, actionable strategies rooted in current consumer behavior and marketing data. World Cup fans flock to social feeds, mobile apps, fan zones, and local hotspots — and brands that show up in the right moments see huge boosts in attention and purchase intent, with sports-aligned messaging delivering major gains in engagement.
You’ll learn fun, creative ways to grab the attention of fans and locals: what to think about as you set your goals for the games, how to make your soccer related messaging authentic to your brand, where to advertise so your message gets seen, and how to tap into the passion of sports culture.
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World Cup Ready: Mobility for the Match
Tuesday, March 31, 2026, 11:00am
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Get a behind-the-scenes look at how our region is gearing up to move fans, residents, and visitors during the Seattle-hosted World Cup matches. Hear from Kimley-Horn, WSDOT, Sound Transit, King County Metro, and Seattle DOT as they share what travel could look like on match days, how agencies are coordinating across the region, and what tools and resources will help everyone navigate a busier-than-usual summer.
Whether you're a business, community partner, or simply curious about how a global event comes together, this session will give you a clear picture of what to expect—and how you can prepare to keep people moving with confidence.
| Business News & Resources | | |
Retail Supply Chains
Face Continued Uncertainty
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Published by the Washington Retail Association, March 19, 2026
Photo courtesy of WRA
Retail supply chains continue to navigate a period of ongoing disruption driven by global events, shifting trade policies, and geopolitical tensions. Over the past decade, retailers have faced challenges ranging from tariffs on Chinese goods and the COVID 19 pandemic to shipping disruptions in the Red Sea and renewed instability in the Middle East.
Recent developments have added uncertainty. According to the National Retail Federation, import cargo at major United States container ports is expected to remain below 2025 levels during the first half of 2026. The forecast reflects continued volatility in trade policy and global markets. In January, United States ports handled 2.08 million twenty-foot equivalent units, down 6.4 percent from the same time last year.
Trade policy remains a key factor in shaping supply chain planning. The Supreme Court recently struck down tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. At the same time, new tariffs have been announced under other federal trade authorities, creating continued uncertainty for retailers and importers.
Geopolitical tensions, including the situation involving Iran, are also being closely monitored for potential impacts on shipping costs, energy prices, and consumer spending.
In response, retailers are strengthening contingency planning, diversifying suppliers, and investing in technology that improves supply chain visibility. Industry leaders emphasize that resilience, collaboration, and proactive planning will remain essential as retailers navigate an increasingly unpredictable global supply environment.
Read the article here
| How to Apply for Small Business Tariff Refunds | | |
Published in the US Chamber of Commerce, March 13, 2026
Photo courtesy of US Chamber of Commerce
The U.S. Supreme Court’s recent decision to strike down certain tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) has created an opportunity for many small businesses to seek refunds. However, navigating the refund process can be complex. Here’s what small businesses need to know. For more detailed information, visit the Chamber’s Guide on Tariff Refunds, here.
What’s Happening with Refunds?
Following the Supreme Court’s February 20 decision, the U.S. Court of International Trade (CIT) ordered immediate action on refunds. On March 6, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) proposed a streamlined refund system, expected to launch by April 20.
Who Qualifies for Refunds?
Refunds are available to U.S. importers of record or consignees who directly paid IEEPA tariffs. These include tariffs commonly referred to as “fentanyl,” “trafficking,” “reciprocal,” or “baseline” tariffs, as well as some tariffs on goods from Brazil and India. Refunds do not apply to Section 232, Section 301, or other tariffs. Note: To determine the legal authority under which tariffs you have paid were applied, consult your customs broker, counsel, or government sources.
Read the article here
| | 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: Common Mistakes to Avoid | | |
A big workplace right for employees is the protection provided to them through workers’ compensation coverage (workers’ comp). Workers’ comp is mandatory for all employees and even some contractors. Check out RCW 51.12.020 for the state law explaining which types of employment are excluded from coverage. Here are a few answers to my workers’ comp FAQs:
- How do I set up workers’ comp?
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Update your WA state business license with the Department of Revenue (DOR) Business Licensing Service and indicate you are going to have employee(s). For help, follow these steps.
- Where do I find my…?
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Are you looking for a certificate of coverage? Your account manager? Maybe rates and risk classes or your L&I account ID? You can find all of that using the Verify Tool. However, if you’re looking for your Participant Activation Code (PAC), you’ll want to call your account manager or give us a call at: 1-800-987-0145.
- Can my payroll company or other third party file for me?
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Yes. Be sure you and the service provider review “Filing on Behalf of Clients” to find an option that fits. But, beware! While payroll companies can file workers’ comp quarterly reports on your behalf, it’s not always the case! Be sure to verify directly with the payroll company to confirm if that’s a service they provide. Otherwise, you risk accruing late fees.
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Is coverage required for business owners?
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No. Most business owners are exempt from mandatory coverage per RCW 51.12.020, even if you pay yourself as an employee in a S-Corp or other structure. However, owners can opt into elective coverage and receive workers’ comp benefits such as medical care coverage related to a workplace injury and partial wage replacement if your workplace injury results in you missing three or more consecutive work days.
| | Nonprofit News & Resources | | 7 Nonprofit Trends Shaping the Sector in 2026 | | |
Published in NonprofitPRO, March 18, 2026
Photo: Compassionate Eye Foundation/David Oxberry/Getty Images
Nonprofits are entering 2026 facing a familiar mix of pressure and possibility.
Funding volatility, rising service demand, and staffing challenges continue to shape how organizations operate. At the same time, donor expectations are evolving, technology is advancing quickly, and leaders are rethinking how nonprofits build sustainable fundraising and governance strategies.
To better understand where the sector may be heading, NonProfit PRO asked nonprofit professionals, consultants, and technology leaders to share their predictions for the year ahead. The result is “40 Nonprofit Trends for 2026,” a new resource featuring insights across fundraising, technology, donor engagement, leadership, and sector strategy.
While the full guide includes 40 predictions, these seven nonprofit trends highlight some of the shifts nonprofit leaders should watch most closely this year.
Read the article here
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Policy Advocacy in Action
Tuesday, March 31, 2026, 10:00am
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Advocacy is most effective when it’s intentional, strategic, and aligned with your organization’s mission. This interactive webinar will guide participants through the essentials of developing a practical advocacy plan that drives real impact. Together, we’ll explore how to identify policy priorities, engage key stakeholders, and translate your goals into actionable strategies.
Through hands-on exercises, real-world examples, and peer learning, participants will leave with a clear framework for designing an advocacy plan tailored to their organization’s unique strengths and challenges. Whether you’re new to advocacy or looking to sharpen your approach, this session will equip you with the tools and confidence to move from ideas to action.
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Olympic College Names Candidate
to Become Next President
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Published in the Kitsap Sun, March 18, 2026
Photo courtesy of Olympic College
Olympic College announced it has tabbed a candidate to become the school's next president.
The Olympic College Board of Trustees on March 17 voted to extend a public offer to Dr. Chantae Recasner to serve as the 16th president of Olympic College, the college announced in a statement.
"The offer marks a major milestone in the college’s presidential search process, though the appointment will not be finalized and a start date will not be announced until contract negotiations are complete," the college said in a statement.
Since June, Joan Hanten has served as the college's interim president during the transition. Former President Marty Cavalluzzi retired last summer, and the college started searching for a new president in July. A series of forums was held at OC campuses in Bremerton, Poulsbo and Shelton the last week of February, where students and employees could interact with the finalists in multiple settings, the Kitsap Sun previously reported.
"We’ve reached a pivotal moment in a process that began last summer," said Board Chair Harriette Bryant in a statement, who thanked everyone at Olympic College who helped the board reach this stage in the search process.
Recasner is one of the four finalists. The other three are Dr. Lisa Mayte Edwards, Dr. Angela McLean, and Dr. Marc Singer.
Read the article here
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WSF Proposes to Replace
Southworth Terminal Building
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Published in the Kitsap Sun, March 19, 2026
Photo courtesy of WA State Ferries
Washington State Ferries will replace its aging Southworth terminal building in the next two years. The public is invited to review the plan and provide feedback through April 5, the state agency said.
The WSF Southworth Terminal Preservation Project expects to remodel or build a new terminal building by 2028. After that, in phase 2 of the project, WSF will replace the dock at the South Kitsap waterfront, according to the agency.
The Southworth terminal served over 825,000 WSF riders in 2025. It provides services for WSF's Triangle route between Southworth, Vashon Island, and Fauntleroy, as well as Kitsap Transit’s passenger-only fast ferry service to downtown Seattle.
For the replacement of the terminal building, WSF is proposing four pre-design alternatives. The current terminal building is located near the end of the dock, an over-water structure where passengers wait before boarding.
Replacement options include having no changes as a comparison to other options; remodeling the current terminal building and building a new administrative office building in a separate location next to the on-shore parking lot; removing the terminal building and building a new terminal and administrative building near the shoreline; or building a new terminal and administrative building at the current location of the terminal building.
Read the article here
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Kitsap History Museum: History Uncorked
Thursday, March 26, 2026, 7:00pm
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Poulsbo Farmer's Market
Saturday, March 28, 2026, 10:00am
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Port Gamble Theater: Something's Afoot
March 13 - 29, 2026
| A zany, entertaining musical that takes a satirical poke at Agatha Christie mysteries and musical styles of the English music hall of the 1930s. Ten people are stranded in an isolated English country house during a raging thunderstorm. One by one, they’re picked off by cleverly fiendish devices. As the bodies pile up in the library, the survivors frantically race to uncover the identity and motivation of the cunning culprit. | | |
Bremerton First Friday Art Walk
Friday, April 3, 2026, 5:00pm
| | Enjoy a free community event that showcases the thriving art scene in Bremerton. First Friday Art Walk is held in Downtown Bremerton, Charleston, Lebo, and Manette every first Friday from 5 pm to 8 pm. Rain or shine. Discover your future favorite gallery, retail shops, and local eats! | | |
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:
Wild Rumours - Fleetwood Mac Tribute
Friday, March 27, 2026, 8:30pm
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Jay Mabin @ The Roxy Theatre
Thursday, March 26, 2026, 8:00pm
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Jay Mabin is a dynamic harmonica virtuoso whose soulful sound has shaped the Pacific Northwest jazz and blues scene for over five decades. A Chicago native mentored by blues legend Sonny Terry and trained by harmonica masters Toots Thielemans as well as Howard Levy, Mabin blends jazz, blues, and pop with deep emotion and playful flair. He’s shared the stage with icons including Bo Diddley and Bud Shank and has also been a featured artist with the Quincy Jones Square Celebration Orchestra in the highly acclaimed "For the Love of Quincy!" show. Jay continues to captivate audiences of all ages from major venues to intimate stages. His exciting band includes Mason Hargrove on guitar, Steve Kim on Bass and Jeff Busch on drums.
If you like blues and jazz you're going to LOVE this show!
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Comedian Eric Haines @ The Admiral Theatre
Friday, March 27, 2026, 7:00pm
| | Comedian Eric Haines is a born entertainer. He is an award-winning comedian and multi-talented performer with amazing abilities as a one man band, singer, guitarist, banjo player, marionette puppeteer, unicyclist, juggler, and stilt walker. He has over thirty-five years experience as an all-around entertainer, including fifteen years as a professional comedian and experience in the professional fields of theater, children’s theater, school assembly programs, fairs and festival entertainment, school workshops and corporate entertainment. | | |
Matthew Morrison Presents Show Up
@ The Admiral Theatre
Saturday, March 28, 2026, 7:30pm
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Matthew Morrison is a versatile actor who is recognized for his work on-stage and on-screen. He has been nominated for Tony, Emmy and Golden Globe Awards.
Morrison made his debut on Broadway in “Footloose” but his big break came when he was cast as heartthrob Link Larkin in the hit “Hairspray.” Morrison was later nominated for a Tony Award for his role in “The Light in the Piazza,” and received a Drama Desk Nomination for Outstanding Actor in a Musical for “10 Million Miles.” He also starred in the Tony-winning revival of “South Pacific” at Lincoln Center Theater in New York. He also starred as “J.M Barrie” in the musical “Finding Neverland.” Morrison received two Drama Desk nominations for his role, and won the category of Favorite Actor in a Musical in the Broadway.com Audience Awards.
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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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