Extra Weekday Bremerton Fast Ferry
Service Extended Through August 2026
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Published in Headways: Kitsap Transit News, July 24, 2025
Kitsap Transit will receive $2.9 million from the state to continue extra passenger-only ferry service on the Bremerton-Seattle route through the end of August 2026. Kitsap Transit’s Bremerton Fast Ferry will operate the extra sailings on weekdays, but not on Saturdays from October through April.
The extension means Kitsap Transit can maintain the additional sailings to support the region during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The state funding comes from a $4 million Legislative appropriation and heralds the end of extra passenger-only ferry service that filled gaps in Washington State Ferries (WSF) service spawned by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Legislature gave WSF discretion in dividing the money between Kitsap Transit and King County Metro, which operates Water Taxi service. This week WSF notified Kitsap Transit and King County Metro how much funding they would each receive.
“We’re glad to see Washington State Ferries has been able to restore two-boat service on the Bremerton-Seattle route,” said John Clauson, Kitsap Transit’s Executive Director. “We’re proud of how our fast-ferry crews stepped up to support our communities during these years when WSF worked to restore full service.”
Read the article here
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Don't Forget to Vote: Ballots Due August 5th
Ballot boxes open 24-hours daily until 8 pm Election Day
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Vote Centers open the Saturday and Monday before the Primary and General Election Day and on Election Day for Special Elections. The centers are designed primarily for new voters needing to register, voters who lost or did not receive their ballots in the mail, voters needing to change their addresses, and voters wishing to vote using the Accessible Voting Unit.
Voters who want to vote in a voting location are also welcome. A ballot from the vote center is the same as the one you receive in the mail. If you receive a ballot in the mail but want to vote in the vote center, bring that ballot and step into one of the voting partition spaces. This will help keep the line short for voters who need to register or receive a replacement ballot.
Beginning 18 days before each election, ballot drop boxes remain open 24 hours a day until 8 p.m. on Election Day.
There are 27 ballot drop boxes located throughout Kitsap County. Eight will be in use during the February 11, 2025 Special Election. Ballot drops provide a safe, secure way for voters to deposit their ballots. No postage is required. Our ballot drop boxes also meet accessibility requirements for voters with disabilities.
Please note: In some elections some boxes may not be in use if there are no elections in that part of the county.
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Silverdale @ Sunset:
Ranger & the Re-Arrangers
Wednesday, July 30, 2025, 6:30pm
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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.
| | New Members - Welcome to the Chamber! | |
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. | | |
Sip & Shop
Purpose Boutique in the Trails
Thursday, July 31, 2025, 1:00pm
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West Sound Crime Con: PNW Unsolved
@ The Admiral Theater
Saturday, August 2, 2025, 7:00pm
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The GKC is excited to give away 2 free tickets to the West Sound Crime Con, courtesy of the Admiral Theater! Tickets will go to the first person to respond to this announcement by emailing us (click here) with your favorite summer activity in Kitsap.
We can't wait to hear from you!
Tickets for this event are also still available HERE.
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Poulsbo Film Festival
Foundation Fundraiser
Saturday, August 2, 2025, 6:00pm
| | 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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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: SBA Loan Opportunities
Thursday, July 31, 2025, 1:00pm
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In this webinar, you will learn about the three SBA loan programs, the eligibility requirements, and how to confidently navigate the application process. We will discuss how to position your small business to secure funding successfully.
Our expert presenter will show you how to navigate SBA loan opportunities, share insights on lending criteria and review actual loan applications. We’ll provide you with the information and tools needed to strengthen your capital readiness.
You'll learn the following:
- The differences between SBA loan programs and which one fits your business needs
- How to evaluate your eligibility and strengthen weak areas before applying
- What lenders look for when approving a loan
- Step-by-step guidance through an actual loan application to prepare your submission
Registration Fee: FREE
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Webinar: Layoff Assistance for
State Workers and Contractors
Tuesday, August 5, 2025, 1:00pm
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The Employment Security Department, along with state and local partners, will host another layoff assistance webinar for state of Washington employees and contractors. The webinar is scheduled from 1 to 3 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 5.
The webinars, part of the state’s rapid response efforts for large layoffs, are intended to help state workers who were laid off, facing a furlough or expecting a workforce reduction. The information will help affected workers navigate available unemployment benefits and reemployment resources.
Webinar topics include:
- Unemployment benefits, how to file and get help.
- What to do about health care benefits.
- Expanding your job skills through training and educational programs.
- Career guidance, job search assistance, and other free resources.
- What to do with your state retirement account.
Registration Fee: FREE
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Evergreen Goodwill
Kitsap County Job Training and Education
August 11 - October 2, 2025
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Biz Fair is Coming to Puyallup
Saturday, September 20, 2025
| | Business News & Resources | | Commerce Launches Statewide Washington State Zoning Atlas to Support Smarter Planning | | |
Published in the Washington State Department of Commerce
OLYMPIA, Wash. – Understanding how zoning shapes communities across Washington is now a little easier thanks to a joint effort from the Washington State Department of Commerce’s Growth Management Services unit, MAKERS architecture and urban design, BHC Consultants, and students from all four of the state’s accredited planning programs.
Commerce recently launched the Washington State Zoning Atlas (WAZA), a first-of-its-kind tool to compare zoning data from across the state in one standardized, interactive platform. The Washington State Zoning Atlas is available as an interactive web-based map and downloadable database.
In Washington, cities and counties have the power to write and manage their own zoning rules within the framework of the state’s Growth Management Act. While this local control gives communities flexibility, it also means there is no standard way to publish or organize zoning codes. This makes it difficult to compare zoning information across the state. The WAZA changes that. It’s the first statewide tool to translate local zoning codes into consistent categories, which means more consistent zoning will be possible for housing, businesses and other development types.
“The Washington State Zoning Atlas is a powerful resource to answer big questions and help bring more housing online,” said Commerce Director Joe Nguyễn. “Zoning decisions shape what kinds of homes get built, where they’re built, and who can afford to live there. Local governments make the rules that decide what gets built where, but until now we didn’t have a clear picture of how those rules add up statewide.”
The WAZA is especially valuable for examining where barriers to housing may exist and how new housing laws, such as middle housing or minimum parking requirements, apply and are being implemented across the state. It also supports environmental, ecological and economic research by clarifying where development is likely to happen and how intensive it may be. A WAZA user guide and examples of how WAZA can support research and policy analysis across different land use scenarios are also available.
Read the article here
| | WA Economies Slow Amid Policy Uncertainty | |
Published in the Association of Washington Business, July 2025
Economic outlook dims: Federal policy changes and on-again off-again tariffs are creating headwinds for the U.S. and Washington state economies, the AWB Council of Economic Advisors writes in the latest edition of Washington Business Outlook.
“The U.S. economy is losing airspeed,” writes Arun Raha, former Washington state chief economist, in the quarterly report. “Job growth has weakened, inflation has ticked up, consumer spending has softened, business investment is hesitant, and overall sentiment is down — but it is not a recession yet.”
GDP decrease: In late June, the Bureau of Economic Analysis released GDP data for all 50 states for the first quarter of 2025. Washington’s economy saw a slight downturn, one of 39 state economies that contracted.
Financial landscape: The Federal Reserve left interest rates unchanged at its June meeting, noting that inflation remains above the 2% target. If tariffs push up prices, that could delay the possibility of a rate cut this fall, says John Mitchell, principal at M&H Economic Consultants.
Agriculture worries: The federal government’s approach to illegal immigration is affecting the supply of workers for summer and fall fruit harvests, writes agricultural economist Desmond O’Rourke. The administration’s approach to trade is also creating challenges for agriculture.
WA gas getting pricier: Falling fuel prices have helped slow overall inflation in the first half of the year. But the gap between U.S. and Washington state gas prices is growing, now exceeding $1 per gallon, notes Grant Forsyth, chief economist at Avista Corp.
Read the report here
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Childcare Provider Listening Session
Thursday, August 14, 2025, 6:30pm
| The Kitsap Childcare Business Development Taskforce is hosting a listening session to hear directly from current and future childcare providers about the challenges of starting or growing services in Kitsap County. Your input is vital—especially if you operate in unincorporated areas where unique barriers exist. Whether you're a current provider, former operator, or just exploring the idea, your voice can help shape real solutions for our community. | | |
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 | |
How to Use Impact Data:
Improve Your Nonprofit Programs
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Published on NonprofitPRO.com, date July 22, 2025
Photo: Getty images by martin-dm
We’ve all heard the phrase “data-driven decision-making,” but connecting this concept to the day-to-day activities of nonprofit program implementation poses a challenge. Research has determined that, though nonprofits collect data from a variety of sources, they often struggle to identify the most meaningful information and incorporate it effectively into their processes.
Here’s an overview of some of the benefits of collecting, analyzing and using impact data to measure, communicate and make decisions about your programs.
Improving Program Outcomes
In the nonprofit world, program evaluation has become a standard part of project implementation. Improving your nonprofit’s programmatic outcomes over time requires an understanding of the influence that those programs have had on your beneficiaries or cause. Nonprofits can gain this understanding through well-rounded monitoring, evaluation and learning processes, which collect relevant information to determine if their efforts are having the impact they want.
Read the article here
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Kitsap Community Foundation
August is Make-a-Will Month!
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August is Make-A-Will Month! Don’t miss this golden opportunity to promote planned giving to your donors and volunteers.
KCF recently hosted a webinar to provide specific language your organization can use in your social media, emails, and newsletters. In case helpful, we are sharing resources from the session. We hope you find them valuable as you work to promote planned giving to those who hold your organization dear—your current donors and volunteers.
The slide deck from the training with links to the Canva toolkit is included below. Additionally, here is the link to the webinar recording for your reference. Please feel free to share with colleagues who were unable to attend.
Know that the experienced team at Kitsap Community Foundation stands ready to help should you need assistance with:
- Acceptance of complex asset types, including stock transfers, IRA distributions, and real estate
- Setting up and Managing Agency Funds – endowment, reserves, campaign/project funds
- Donor-designated endowment funds for your agency (KCF manages funds in perpetuity; agency gets annual check)
- Provide philanthropic counseling and talk with individual donors/volunteers about the tax advantages of different types of philanthropic funds (Charitable Trusts, Donor Advised Funds, etc.) for current and planned gifts.
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Navy Releases Draft
Environmental Impact Statement
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Published In the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance, July 21, 2025
SILVERDALE, Wash. — The U.S. Navy has prepared a Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to evaluate the potential environmental impacts associated with the construction of a new dry dock and associated waterfront infrastructure improvements at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and Intermediate.
Maintenance Facility (PSNS & IMF) at Naval Base Kitsap-Bremerton (NBK-Bremerton) and at Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor (NBK-Bangor) in Washington state.
The Navy requests and welcomes public input on the environmental analysis presented in the Draft EIS and on the project's potential to affect historic properties pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act.
In the Draft EIS, the Navy is proposing to construct a new multi-mission dry dock that is capable of supporting Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carriers at PSNS & IMF.
The Navy is proposing to build the multi-mission dry dock to address critical deficiencies in dry dock capability, capacity, and seismic survivability at NBK-Bremerton, which would enable PSNS & IMF to continue to meet its vital mission to support the Navy’s nuclear-powered fleet into the foreseeable future.
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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Kitsap Block Party
Fostering the Unity in Community
Saturday, August 2, 2025, 10:00am
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We're celebrating you, Kitsap! Come enjoy a culturally diverse family gathering on August 2nd, 2025. We'll have street vendors, a fire truck, bounce houses, amusement ride(s), sports-themed/field-day activities, and fun for all ages. You won't want to miss this fun-filled day with your neighbors.
The Kitsap Block Party is annually held at Bunker Baseball Fields, the home of our largest sponsor, Tracyton Pee Wee Sports Association. They supply the space while we supply the fun. We welcome all local youth athletic organizations to participate by sponsoring our sports-themed/field day activities.
On top of all the fun, we gift FREE backpacks and school supply kits to underprivileged Kitsap students to jump-start their first day in the classroom. We also host an annual food drive to help those facing food insecurity. Attendees will receive one free ticket of opportunity to go toward our raffles for every non-perishable food item that is turned in. See our Food Drive page for more information.
Kitsap Block Party (and our annual event) exists to serve three primary purposes: (1) foster unity within Kitsap County, (2) give back to families and businesses; and (3) help elevate the socioeconomics of our local area.
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National Night Out
Fire Marshall Ventura
Tuesday, August 5, 2025, 5:00pm
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Silverdale Greendrinks @ Fafo Kitchen
Wednesday, August 6, 2025, 5:24pm
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CK Performing Arts Center Presents: Cats
August 7-10 & 14-17, 2025
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Kitsap County Cornhole
Saturday, August 16, 2025
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Port Orchard Night Market
Saturday, August 16, 2025,
| | Port Orchard's waterfront outdoor market featuring local artisans, music, food, games and more! Family-friendly fun August 16 from 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm. | | |
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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Flagship Inn
Comfort, Convenience, and Classic Kitsap Charm
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Relax on your private full width balcony overlooking Oyster Bay and the Olympic Mountains or enjoy a summer afternoon swimming in or relaxing around our heated seasonal pool. You will enjoy the luxury of your guest room featuring amenities such as air conditioning, refrigerator, in-room coffee maker, microwave, two telephones, high speed Wi-Fi, color TV with cable and a DVD/VHS video player. Our lobby features a computer and printer for your use, video rental library, Continental breakfast in the morning and a fine selection of teas, coffee, home baked cookies and fresh fruit all day and night.
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Clearwater Casino Presents:
Lupe Fiasco
Saturday, August 2, 2025, 7:00pm
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Ride the Tides
Explore 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. | | |
GKCVC: Presents Silverdale @ Sunset
Summer concert series returns to Waterfront Park
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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! | |
Music in Manette
Thursdays, July 10 - August 21, 2025, 6:30pm
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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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