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AWB Institute Unveils
Washington in the Making 2040
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Courtesy of the Association of Washington Business
In an exciting event at the Chihuly Garden and Glass in Seattle on Tuesday, AWB and the Washington Roundtable unveiled Washington in the Making 2040 — a bold, 15-year vision to drive shared prosperity and strong communities across the state.
Developed with input from over 4,200 Washingtonians through surveys and town halls, this statewide plan outlines key priorities to ensure a thriving future for everyone.
“This was built by and for Washingtonians,” said AWB President Kris Johnson. “It’s a unifying, aspirational vision for our future.”
Washington in the Making 2040 focuses on:
- Developing a world-class workforce
- Fostering a pro-growth business environment
- Building infrastructure and connectivity that serves all communities
- Enhancing and preserving Washington’s exceptional quality of life
Progress will be tracked through The Vitals, a dashboard monitoring 36 key economic indicators at the county level. Check them out at www.awbinstitute.org
Learn more and get involved: www.WA2040.org
Read more on the plan and what’s ahead: http://www.awb.org/wa-employer-groups-launch-economic.../
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Save-the-Date: Port to Port Pop-Up
Saturday, June 21, 2025
| | Pop on the foot ferry at the Port of Silverdale or the Bremerton Waterfront for a chance to enjoy Central Kitsap from the water. Enjoy a 1-hour ride on Kitsap Transit's Carlisle II, one of the last Mosquito Fleet Ferry boats in operation. Check out KitsapFest at the Silverdale Waterfront or Make Music Day in Bremerton's Evergreen Rotary Park for a fun-filled day for locals and visitors alike. Stay tuned for more details! | | |
June Luncheon: 2025 Annual Meeting
Wednesday, June 25, 2025, 11:00 am - 1:00 pm
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Please join us for our June Membership Luncheon and 2025 Annual Meeting. This is a special luncheon for the Chamber as we celebrate all of the work we've done over the last 12 months and introduce our newly-elected Board members. You'll hear from outgoing-Chair, John Morrissey and learn more about what the Chamber has planned for the coming year.
Bring your business cards and get ready to network - you won't want to miss!
Paid parking is available on the Green Level underneath the Kitsap Conference Center.
| | Now Hiring: Join the GKC Team | | Final Chance to Vote: 2026 Board of Directors | | |
Per the bylaws of the Greater Kitsap Chamber, the following individuals are presented to the greater membership for a vote open for 14 days. If approved, the individuals included in this slate will sit for a three-year term. Please respond to each of the 6 positions with a yes or no vote. Thank you for your participation!
SLATE FOR CONSIDERATION
Christine Cochran, General Manger, Marina Square Suites, Bremerton
Susan Larsen, Business Development, Land Title of Kitsap County, Silverdale
Jason Ritter-Lopatowski, Architect, Rice Fergus Miller, Bremerton
Shauna Washburn, Owner, United Moving & Storage, Bremerton
Amy Yaley, COO, Ward Media, Poulsbo
Amy Zinkhon, Owner, Suitcases on Standby Travel, Poulsbo
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Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting
Integrity Roofing & Construction
Friday, June 6, 2025, 4:00 pm
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Grand Re-Opening & Ribbon Cutting
The Coffee Oasis - Bremerton Cafe & Roastery
Monday, June 9, 2025, 12:00 pm
| | Come check out the newly renovated space at The Coffee Oasis in Bremerton on Monday, June 9th as we celebrate with a ribbon cutting! The first 50 customers of the day get a free breakfast sandwich and the first 100 customers of the day get a free coffee card to use at a later date. All are welcome! | | |
Chamber: Off the Clock
Tuesday, June 17, 2025, 5:05 pm
| | Make sure to grab your ticket now to Kitsap's newest night of networking! Join us in the Sky Lounge at Fieldstone Silverdale for connections and networking with the best view in Silverdale. $20 covers sips and bites - get your ticket online to reserve your spot (cash and card also accepted at the door). | | Highlight Your Business with Tabling Opportunity at Chamber Luncheon | | Insurance Needs for You & Your Employees: Business Health Trust Has You Covered | | |
Big changes are coming to healthcare and insurance in 2025. Did you know the IRS has expanded preventative care benefits for high-deductible health plans? This includes coverage for over-the-counter contraceptives, continuous glucose monitors, and certain insulin products.
Our partner, Business Health Trust has summarized the insurance and healthcare changes impacting Washington employers and employees this year.
Click the link to read:
🔗 Article Link: https://businesshealthtrust.com/news_insights/insurance-changes-in-2025-what-you-need-to-know/
Not a BHT member? Are you ready to build a better benefits package? Email quote@businesshealthtrust.com to learn more and get a free quote.
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Renew your membership today to ensure your benefits as a member of the Greater Kitsap Chamber! Questions about when to renew or how to upgrade your membership? Need a new membership window cling or digital badge? Contact David now!
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Missed a previous edition of the Chamber's Community Connections?
View all the past issues on our website HERE.
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New & Renewing Members for May
Thank you for your continued investment & support!
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You're Invited: Farewell Celebration
Wednesday, June 4, 2025, 5:00-6:30 pm
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Suitcases on Standby Hosts Tour
Friday, July 11, 2025, 9:00 am - 2:00 pm
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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.
| | Kitsap Community Foundation | | |
Since its founding in 1993, the Kitsap Community Foundation has been a cornerstone of philanthropic impact throughout Kitsap County, Washington. Dedicated to strengthening the region through thoughtful giving and nonprofit support, the Foundation has become a trusted resource for donors, nonprofits, and community leaders alike.
At its heart, the Kitsap Community Foundation (KCF) is driven by a clear mission: to connect people who care with causes that matter. From Bainbridge Island to Bremerton, and Silverdale to Port Orchard, KCF channels resources to local organizations doing critical work across education, health, housing, the arts, environmental protection, and more.
Championing Local Nonprofits
What sets KCF apart is its strategic focus on nonprofit sustainability. Rather than simply issuing grants, the Foundation serves as a long-term partner to nonprofits, helping them grow capacity, improve leadership, and access vital funding. One of its flagship efforts is the Kitsap Great Give, an annual online giving campaign that has helped raise millions for local organizations. It’s more than a fundraiser—it's a celebration of community generosity and collaboration.
KCF also manages donor-advised funds, which allow individuals and families to create tailored philanthropic legacies. These funds not only simplify charitable giving but also ensure that community investments continue for generations to come. With more than $20 million in assets under management and dozens of active funds, the Foundation ensures a lasting financial pipeline for regional progress.
A Legacy of Generosity
As Kitsap County continues to grow and evolve, the Kitsap Community Foundation remains steadfast in its mission to build a stronger, more resilient region through philanthropy. Whether you’re a donor seeking to make a lasting impact or a nonprofit in need of support, KCF is a resource you can trust to turn vision into action.
Members of the Chamber since 2013, we are thrilled to honor the Kitsap Community Foundation as this month's Member of the Month.
| | Business & Professional Development Committee | | Member Education & Training Resources | | |
Lunchtime Lightning Talk @ Vibe Coworks:
Imposter Syndrome No More
Thursday, June 5, 2025, 11:30 am
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For many people, feeling like an outsider isn’t an illusion — it’s the result of systemic bias and exclusion, with direct impact on our leadership and approach to business.
We're diving in deep this month for real talk with 3 local entrepreneurs, here to share their entrepreneurial journey with imposter syndrome, including all the highs and lows, the roadblocks they’ve encountered, and the support that has made a difference.
Hear from peers who’ve successfully navigated impostor syndrome, as well as those currently tackling it head-on, and expect leave with a few new tools for recognizing your value and full potential as an entrepreneur.
Come ready to listen, learn, and find new inspiration. Leave your ego at the door, and engage in authentic conversations from peers who are in the trenches and 'doing the thing', battle scars and all.
Informal conversation and networking begins at 11:30am. Lightning Talks begin at 12pm and end promptly at 1pm. BYO lunch!
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SCORE: Cultivating a Business Mindset
Friday, June 6, 2025, 10:00 am
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 | | In today's competitive business landscape, a successful entrepreneur requires more than just technical expertise and a keen sense of market trends. They also need a resilient mindset that can help them weather the storms of uncertainty, overcome obstacles, and stay motivated during ups and downs. This interactive and inspiring workshop, "Cultivating a Business Mindset for Success," will help you unlock your potential as an entrepreneur by teaching you practical strategies for developing a growth mindset and overcoming limiting beliefs. You'll learn how to shift your focus from fear to opportunity, embrace failure as a valuable learning experience, and harness the power of positive thinking to achieve your goals. With real-life case studies and actionable advice, this workshop will empower you to cultivate a winning attitude and create abundance in your life and business. So, if you're ready to transform your mindset and take your entrepreneurial journey to the next level, this workshop is the perfect opportunity for you.
Registration Fee: FREE
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SCORE: AI-Powered Business Planning
Monday, June 9, 2025, 9:00 am
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Join us and other entrepreneurs in this hands-on workshop where you will write your “Unique Value Statement” for your new product or service. This is a concise description of your product or service and explain the unique value your product or service provides to your customers. As part of the workshop, participants will receive real-time feedback from a SCORE mentor to help them fine tune their Value Statement.
In the second part of the workshop you will use the “Lean Canvas” to begin the process of turning your product/service into a business. In this interactive session, you use the canvas to help guide you in expanding the information in the Unique Value Statement by capturing key ideas, concepts and strategies about your business in the canvas. This creates a basic framework that you can use to complete YOUR full, detailed business plan.
Have paper, a pencil or a pen ready as the goal of this workshop is for all participants to leave with a draft of their “Unique Value Statement” and “Lean Canvas.”
Registration Fee: FREE
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Deep-Dive Business Series - Part 2:
Cultivating Customers
Tuesday, June 10, 2025, 2:00 pm
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Ready to attract the right customers and turn them into loyal supporters?
This session is designed to help you go beyond general marketing and focus on what really works—understanding, targeting, and truly connecting with the people you serve.
Topics Covered:
🔹 Defining Your Ideal Customer – Learn how to create a clear customer persona to better understand who you’re trying to reach and what they truly want.
🔹 Targeting with Local Tools – Discover how to leverage a free local resource to identify, locate, and effectively market to your ideal customer base.
🔹 Crafting a Compelling Story – Explore how to tell your business/brand story in a way that builds connection, trust, and turns customers into loyal advocates.
Why Attend?
✅ Learn practical, actionable strategies for identifying and connecting with your ideal customers in meaningful ways.
✅ Leave with a clear plan to refine your messaging, build trust through storytelling, and attract the right audience to grow your business.
Reserve your spot now and get ready to connect with your customers like never before!
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WSHRMA: Employment Law Update
Wednesday, June 11, 2025, 8:45 am
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Business Summit Workshop:
Strategic Branding - Building Business
Value Beyond the Logo
Friday, June 20, 2025, 10:00 am
| | Business News & Resources | | |
Big Tax Change on Services Coming this Fall
AWB seeks input from industries impacted
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Courtesy of the Association of Washington Business
Significant change: The bill that expands the sales tax to many more services passed the Legislature in just 10 days. Because of the bill’s speedy passage, there will likely be unintended consequences as the new law is implemented.
New sales tax on services: Starting Oct. 1, 2025, Washington businesses will need to collect sales tax (6.5% + local rates) on a range of services, including IT support and training, data processing, website services, digital advertising, security and temporary staffing. Learn more about the services now subject to the sales tax and the exemptions.
Get in touch: AWB is still learning how the tax change will impact different industries. Please reach out to AWB Tax & Fiscal Policy Director Max Martin with thoughts. Your feedback will help us bring attention to problems before the rulemaking phase begins.
Digital agencies criticize new law: GeekWire spoke with two Puget Sound-based companies who feel blindsided by the tax change and worry the law will prompt clients to seek out-of-state providers.
“They’re just stuck with it. It’s unfair and it seems unreasonable. It’s unbelievable,” said John Rubino, partner at Seattle-based GreenRubino. Rubino worries that his clients — many of them small businesses and nonprofits — won’t be able to absorb the added costs from the new tax.
Historic tax burdens: The sales tax expansion, along with B&O tax rate hikes, were part of $12 billion in tax increases passed by the Legislature — the largest tax increase in state history.
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Washington's New Cap on Rent Hikes
Set at 10% Through End of 2025
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Published in the Washington State Standard, May 31, 2025
Photo: Jason Finn/Getty Images
For the rest of this year, Washington landlords are limited to rent hikes of 10% or less under a landmark new state law.
House Bill 1217, signed into law this month by Gov. Bob Ferguson, restricts annual residential rent increases to 7% plus inflation, or 10%, whichever is lower.
The state Department of Commerce calculated the former option as 10.8%. Since that’s above the threshold, rent increases are capped at 10% through the end of 2025.
The maximum allowable increase for 2026 is expected to be published in July, based on inflation data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The highly divisive legislation went into effect immediately after Ferguson’s signature.
Read more here
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2025 Community Accelerator Grant Open
Deadline to apply is June 6th at 5:00 pm
| | The Community Accelerator Grant is a $10M investment in Washington State's arts and culture sector funded by the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation and administered by ArtsFund. This program provides unrestricted grants to cultural nonprofit organizations and tribal entities in amounts of $2,500 - $25,000 in order to boost the organization's ability to invest in their missions and essential roles. | | |
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. | | L&I Business Owner & Employer Survey | | |
Washington's Department of Labor and Industries is excited to share the Business Owner and Employer Survey (also available in Spanish). L&I would love to hear from you about how they are doing! In this brief and confidential survey, you'll have the chance to share your experiences and feedback with L&I. Your input helps the agency understand what they're doing well and what they can do to better serve you. Thanks for your participation!
| | Nonprofit News & Resources | | |
A Blueprint for Nonprofit Sustainability
Amid Funding Challenges in 2025
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Published on NonProfitPRO.com, May, 29, 2025
Photo: Getty Images by Drazen_
American nonprofits are in the midst of an existential crisis, specifically regarding funding and mission viability. I don’t say this lightly, and this dilemma is not likely to resolve itself anytime soon. The loss of the American Rescue Plan Act was anticipated, but nonetheless, has caused nonprofits to make critical decisions about their strategic operations and personnel over the next 18 months.
The recent uncertainty around federal funding has compounded the situation. Beyond the federal agencies that have been laid bare in the wake of Department of Government Efficiency cuts, this uncertainty extends to state, county and municipal governments, jeopardizing the timing and assurance of receiving essential funding to continue their missions. Given the typical structure of nonprofits, it is difficult to imagine a scenario where many nonprofits will outlast this funding uncertainty.
Read the article here
| | Kitsap Regional Library Seeks Levy Lift on August Ballot to Fund Services | | |
Published in the Kitsap Sun, May 31, 2025
Photo: Meegan M. Reid/Kitsap Sun
Kitsap voters will decide whether to approve Kitsap Regional Library's request to increase its property tax levy rate in the August election, eight years after the last time they approved a library levy lid lift.
On the August 5 ballot, voters will be asked to consider increasing KRL’s levy rate by 12 cents per $1,000 of assessed value, from the current 27 cents to 39 cents per $1,000. If approved, funds from this levy will start collection in 2026.
The last time voters approved a levy rate increase for KRL was in 2017, when voters agreed to raise the rate by 8 cents per $1,000 of assessed value, from 35 cents to 43 cents per $1,000, which added $3.43 million to KRL’s budget for 2018.
Read the story here
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Callow Community Turns Out Big
for Neighborhood Paint Project
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Published in the Kitsap Sun, June 2, 2025
Photo: Skylar Stock/Kitsap Sun
Community members showed up to make their mark on a neglected underpass in Bremerton during a painting event on May 31, as a collective project to spruce up a section of the city's Callow Avenue district.
“I think in the past, this neighborhood may have had a certain reputation and we want people to reflect and see this place in a new light,” said artist Danielle Rimbert of Rimbert Illustration, who led the project.
After two years of planning, the team effort of the City of Bremerton and Charleston Business District brought more than 70 residents to beautify the area off Wycoff Avenue, where the street passes under 11th Street on the city's west side. A blue backdrop was covered with teal waves and white whale motifs from a range of neighbors with different experiences and backgrounds.
Read the story here
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Central Kitsap Community Council via Zoom
Wednesday, June 4, 2025, 5:00 pm
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The Central Kitsap Community Council (CKCC) will hold its monthly meeting on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. Via Zoom. This is due to unforseen circumstances and out of an abundance of caution. If you would like to attend please go follow this link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83556349423.
The public is invited to the monthly meeting to discuss important community initiatives and gather public input.
Agenda Highlights:
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Transportation Improvement Program Presentation: Kitsap County Public Works Transportation planning – Melissa Mohr and David Forte
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Year of the Rural Community Engagement Announcement: Kitsap County Department of Community Development, Long Range Planner – Heather Clevland
- CKCC Committee’s updates
About CKCC
The Central Kitsap Community Council holds monthly public meetings to provide a discussion forum and enhance communication between Central Kitsap residents and Kitsap County government. CKCC members work proactively to address community issues and concerns. To learn more about the CKCC and view the meeting agenda, visit kcowa.us/ckcc
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Kitsap Transit Quarterly Community Meeting
Saturday, June 7, 2025
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Executive Director John Clauson will give a presentation on our Transit Development Plan and the future of supplemental Bremerton Fast Ferry service. He will also discuss the intra-county passenger-only ferry study. A Q&A session will follow the presentation.
Attend one of three online sessions: Registration links will be posted prior to the meeting.
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
Please join us for these virtual quarterly community meetings!
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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 Humane Society: Pets Walk
Saturday, June 7, 2025
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Bremerton Foodline & NK Fishline FOODproject
Green bag drop-off is Saturday, June 14th
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The Neighborhood Food Project is a grassroots initiative spreading across the U.S., bringing neighbors and food banks together in communities like Gig Harbor, Issaquah, and Thurston County. Now, Kitsap and Mason County Food Banks are joining together in a collaborative effort to fight hunger smarter and more efficiently.
Every other month, Bremerton Foodline (BFL) Coordinators share a county-wide wishlist that includes items most needed by the member organizations of the Kitsap County Food Bank Coalition. This means that instead of guessing what’s needed, theFOODproject donors can confidently donate, knowing their contributions will directly meet the needs of families throughout Kitsap County.
As this program grows, it has the power to consistently bring in tens of thousands of pounds of targeted donations, transforming how we meet the demand for food and essential products across Kitsap County. Our ultimate goal is to foster a stronger sense of community while ensuring no one goes hungry. Together, we can build a network that nourishes people and connections. The result? Fully stocked shelves and less waste ensure our clients can always find what they need, and donors feel the impact they are making.
Sign up today to be a Neighborhood Coordinator (NC). Each NC will bring in an average of $3,000 worth of products yearly by rallying 5-10 donors to join them in doing JUST 6 food drives a year. Help Kitsap and Mason County reach our goal of bringing in 20,000 pounds of food each food drive by the end of 2025!
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Bainbridge Pride @ Waterfront Park
Saturday, June 21, 2025
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Masks Still Available
Free at the Greater Kitsap Chamber & Visitor Center
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The Greater Kitsap Chamber still has some supplies available if your local business is in need of KN95 masks. Pick up your supply at both GKC locations today. Available while supplies last.
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Oyster Bay Inn & Suites
The Pearl of Bremerton
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Situated on the picturesque shores of Oyster Bay, Oyster Bay Inn & Suites provides an ideal retreat in Bremerton, WA. Whether you are visiting for business, a relaxing weekend escape, or a longer stay, we deliver unparalleled comfort, convenience, and stunning views—just moments away from the Bremerton to Seattle ferry.
Why Choose Us?
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Refined Accommodations: Each room is designed for effortless relaxation, offering panoramic views of the bay, plush amenities, and an atmosphere of sophisticated tranquility.
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Unrivaled Waterfront: Serenity Wake up to the gentle rhythm of the waves, savor coffee on your private balcony, and immerse yourself in the quiet elegance of the Puget Sound.
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Ideal Location: Take a short ferry ride to Seattle and immerse yourself in iconic attractions like Pike Place Market, the Gum Wall, and the Space Needle.
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Exciting Outdoor Activities: Perfect your swing at nearby golf courses, enjoy a leisurely walk along the scenic Bremerton Boardwalk, cool off by the vibrant dancing fountains or hike around Hurricane Ridge in the Washington's Olympic National Park.
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Fun for the Whole Family: Discover the wonders of the Bug Museum, tour the historic USS Turner Joy, or visit the renowned Puget Sound Naval Shipyard.
At Oyster Bay Inn & Suites, grace and grandeur intertwine, creating a stay that’s equal parts sophistication and relaxation. Welcome to your waterfront escape. Welcome to elegance.
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Admiral Theatre Presents:
Classic Journey and Beyond
Friday, June 6, 2025, 8:00 pm
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Clearwater Casino Presents:
Infinity Project - Journey Tribute
Friday, June 6, 2025, 8:30 pm
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Non Jovi - Bon Jovi Tribute
Saturday, June 7, 2025, 8:30 pm
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Bremerton Night Market
@ the Bremerton Boardwalk
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Immersive Tour Offering Visits to
Historic & Cultural Suquamish Sites
June - Sept 2025
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BCT Presents: Suspect
June 6 - 29, 2025
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In Suspect, the enigmatic Mrs. Smith, living in a remote part of England, finds herself once again under the shadow of suspicion for a murder case from which she was previously acquitted with a “not proven” verdict. As her son falls in love with the daughter of a journalist who covered the original trial, old suspicions resurface, and Mrs. Smith must navigate a web of intrigue and deception. With her housekeeper by her side, she battles to clear her name and secure her son’s happiness, turning the tables on her accusers in a dramatic and suspenseful showdown. This play is a masterful blend of tension and resolution, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats with its clever twists and turns.
Content Advisory: The play deals with themes of murder, suspicion, and deception, all presented in a dramatic and suspenseful manner; mature themes related to crime and suspicion, but they are handled with a focus on drama and suspense. The play is suitable for teens and adults, with its blend of mystery and drama making it an engaging experience for a wide audience.
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KCMT Presents: The Wizard of Oz
June 12 - 29, 2025
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Kitsap Fest
Saturday, June 21, 2025, 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
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Make Music Day Festival
Saturday, June 21, 2025, 11:00 am - 6:00 pm
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Purchase Tickets Now: Bremerton Air Show
July 12 & 13, 2025
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If you are a vendor looking to be a part of the 2025 Bremerton Air Show,
please visit their vendor site HERE.
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Quincy Square Grand Opening Festival
July 12 & 13, 2025
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Stay in the know with what's happening for events
in Central Kitsap by checking out and liking the
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Have something to share? CLICK HERE to submit stories and
events for our weekly Community Connections!
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Bremerton Office (360) 479-3579 | 705 Pacific Avenue in Downtown Bremerton
Silverdale Office (360) 692-6800 | Kitsap Mall
PO Box 1218 Silverdale WA 98383
If you need assistance, please contact us directly.
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