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Armed Forces Day 2026
Saturday, May 16, 2026, 10:00am
| | 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. | | We're Hiring: Join the GKC Team! | |
April Membership Luncheon
Wednesday, April 29, 2026, 11:00am
| | Join us this month as we re-cap the 2026 Legislative Session with AWB's Vice President of Government Affairs, Morgan Irwin. Find out what businesses can expect from this session, how our communities are being impacted, and where Washington is headed next. | |
Chamber: Off the Clock
Tuesday, April 21, 2026, 5:05pm
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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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Old Town Kitchen
Ribbon Cutting & Grand Opening
Saturday, April 25, 2026, 10:30am
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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.
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New & Renewing Members for March
Thank you for your continued investment & support!
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WorkSource: Invisible Disabilities Panel Event
Tuesday, May 12, 2026, 9:00am
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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 pleased to recognize Reliable Storage as our April Member of the Month. A trusted local provider, and Chamber member since 1989, Reliable Storage has built a strong reputation for dependable service, safe facilities, and a genuine commitment to the Kitsap community. Their ongoing involvement with the Chamber reflects a business that values connection, relationships, and local impact.
Secure Solutions, Strong Community Ties
Serving individuals, families, and businesses throughout Kitsap County, Reliable Storage offers clean, accessible, and secure storage solutions designed to meet a wide range of needs. Whether supporting residents during life transitions or providing space solutions for local businesses, their services help make every day logistics simpler and more reliable.
Beyond their facilities, Reliable Storage is an engaged community partner. Their team is a regular presence at Chamber Luncheons and Chamber: Off the Clock, where they actively connect with fellow members and contribute to the collaborative spirit that defines the Greater Kitsap Chamber. Their participation helps foster meaningful relationships and strengthens the region’s business network.
A Reliable Partner in Every Sense
With a focus on customer service, professionalism, and local engagement, Reliable Storage consistently delivers on its promise of reliability. Their active participation in Chamber programs and events highlights their dedication to being more than just a service provider - they are a dependable partner invested in the success and well-being of Kitsap County.
The Greater Kitsap Chamber is grateful for Reliable Storage’s continued engagement and we’re proud to spotlight them as our April Member of the Month.
| AWB's Guide to the New Income Tax | |
Published by the Association of WA Business, March 30, 2026
Photo: Governor's Office
On Monday, March 30, Gov. Bob Ferguson signed Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 6346, establishing a state income tax on annual earnings above $1 million for individuals and couples. Ahead of the signing, AWB and more than 50 employers and chambers urged the governor to veto the income tax, which comes on the heels of the historically large tax increases passed in 2025.
AWB’s issue brief details how the income tax will impact pass-through businesses and how to calculate credits and deductions.
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23rd Legislative District Town Halls
Saturday, April 18, 2026
| Business & Professional Development Committee | | Member Education & Training Resources | | |
SCORE: Why Blogging is a
Small Business Power Tool
Tuesday, April 7, 2026, 10:00am
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Are you overlooking one of the most powerful tools in your marketing toolbox?
You’ll learn why blogging still matters in 2026, how it drives more traffic, improves SEO, and builds trust with your audience. You’ll also discover how to stretch your blog content further, turning one well-written post into social media, email, and promotional material.
- Why blogging is still one of the most powerful tools for small business marketing
- How blogging helps your SEO and Google rankings
- The essential elements of a great blog post (structure, keywords, headlines, and more)
- How to repurpose a single blog post into multiple pieces of content (email, social, video, etc.)
Registration Fee: FREE
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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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AWB: HR & Employment Law Webinar Series
Wednesday, April 15, 2026, 10:00am
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For CEOs, HR managers, payroll personnel, and other department managers who are vigilant about the bottom line and compliance, this webinar is your guide to the latest developments in federal, state, and local wage and hour laws.
Key Takeaways:
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Legal Updates: Stay ahead of the curve with insights into new wage and hour laws and court decisions.
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Strategies for Compliance: Delve into practical strategies to ensure your organization remains in compliance, avoiding administrative claims, and individual and class-action wage and hour disputes.
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Risk Mitigation Techniques: Learn proactive approaches to mitigate risks and protect your organization from potential wage and hour-related challenges.
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SHRM West Sound:
Spring Leadership Conference
Wednesday, May 14, 2026, 8:00am
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Business News & Resources | | SBA Disaster Recovery Loans Available | |
If you were affected by the Severe Winter Storms between December 5 and December 22, 2025, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is offering low-interest disaster loans to help you rebuild.
Apply online via the MySBA Loan Portal for Disaster #WA-20025: Apply for SBA Disaster Loan WA-20025
For further assistance, contact the SBA Customer Service Center:
* Email: disastercustomerservice@sba.gov
* Phone: 1-800-659-2955 (TTY: Dial 7-1-1)
| How This State Program is Supporting Workforce Growth, Small Business Expansion | | |
Published in the South Sound Business Journal, March 25, 2026
Photo: Luky Triohandoko/Unsplash
Washington's Community Reinvestment Program looks to help residents access better jobs while supporting small businesses and expanding economic opportunity throughout the state.
A $14.5 million investment from the Washington State Department of Commerce, in partnership with the Employment Security Department and local Workforce Development Councils, will assist the program as it aims to strengthen career pathways statewide, according to a recent news release from Commerce.
The initiative aids historically underserved communities by funding tools such as wage reimbursements, on-the-job training, and matched savings accounts designed to help people build stability and long-term economic mobility, per the release.
“Historically excluded and underserved communities have faced various unique barriers,” said Strategic Partnerships Manager Krista Perez in the Commerce release. “Our partners all have the same thing in common, which is to serve our communities, to serve job seekers, and really help build their economic mobility and economic power.”
According to the release, local workforce partners, including WorkForce Central, are reporting that participating businesses are seeing increased hiring capacity and growth as a result of these investments.
Read the article here
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WA Strengthens Community
Reinvestment with HB 2523
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Published by the Washington Retail Association, March 26, 2026
Photo courtesy of WRA
On March 23, 2026, Governor Bob Ferguson signed HB 2523 into law, advancing Washington’s community reinvestment program and reinforcing the state’s commitment to long-term economic opportunity. Prime sponsored by Rep. Kristine Reeves, the bill passed the House 88-9 and the Senate 45-3. Companion legislation, SB 6275, was sponsored by Sen. T’wina Nobles.
HB 2523 helps expand access to small-business support, entrepreneurship resources, financial literacy training, and other economic development tools that drives real poverty reduction and long‑term economic independence. The law also continues investments in areas tied to long-term community stability, including reentry services, violence prevention, and economic support for historically marginalized and underrepresented communities. Just as importantly, HB 2523 places added emphasis on accountability. The law establishes a clearer funding structure, reporting requirements, plan updates, and independent review to help ensure public dollars are used effectively and deliver measurable results.
WR supported HB 2523 because these investments can help strengthen healthy commercial corridors by expanding economic participation, supporting workforce connections, and creating more resilient local business environments. We appreciate the bill’s thoughtful approach and its recognition that long-term economic growth depends on investing in communities in ways that are intentional, transparent, and built to last. We also appreciate the efforts of advocates, including FMS Global Strategies and the Washington Workforce Association, whose work helped move this legislation forward.
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 | | Tax Time 2026: Navigating New Rules and Staying the Course for Your Donors | | |
Published by the Kitsap Community Foundation, March 23, 2026
Photo courtesy of the KCF
As we move through March 2026, the familiar buzz of tax season is in the air across Kitsap County. For those of us in the nonprofit world, we know that this time of year is about much more than just gathering receipts and filling out forms. It is a unique window into the hearts and minds of our supporters. It’s a time when donors sit down with their CPAs and financial advisors to look at the big picture of their lives, their legacies, and their local impact.
At Kitsap Community Foundation, we see tax season as a vital opportunity for connection. It’s a chance to understand what’s driving donor decisions and how the current legal landscape is shaping the way they support your mission. You’ve likely noticed that the conversation has shifted recently. With several significant tax law changes taking effect on January 1, 2026, donors are asking new questions, and their advisors are offering new strategies.
While we all believe that philanthropy is driven by passion and a desire to see our community thrive, we cannot ignore the fact that tax rules influence the timing and structure of those generous acts. We want to make sure you feel empowered to lead these conversations with confidence. Below, we’ve broken down the key charitable giving tax principles for 2026 and provided practical ways you can address them with your donors.
Read the article here
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Policy Shifts Raise New Questions for
Nonprofit Fundraising and Reporting
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Published in NonprofitPRO, March 27, 2026
Photo: Aschen/Getty Images
Policymakers are weighing changes that could affect how nonprofits fundraise, report, and manage costs — from the potential wind-down of the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) to expected postal rate increases and renewed interest in Form 990 reform.
At the 2026 Nonprofit Fundraisers Symposium, Ann Hollingsworth, vice president of government affairs at The Nonprofit Alliance, outlined how these issues are evolving in Washington and what they could mean for nonprofit operations in the months ahead.
A Major Fundraising Channel Faces Uncertainty
The future of the Combined Federal Campaign, a longstanding workplace giving program for federal government employees and retirees that has raised more than $9 billion for nonprofits, is still in limbo.
Last fall, the Office of Personnel Management considered ending the 2025 campaign, prompting a coordinated response from the sector. More than 400 nonprofits signed a letter urging the administration to continue the program, and the decision was ultimately reversed in time for the 2025 campaign to launch.
Read the article here
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Homeless Shelters Get Protection from
City Zoning in New WA Law
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Published in the Kitsap Sun, March 28, 2026
Photo courtesy of The Kitsap Sun
EVERETT — A new Washington state law will require local governments to allow housing for people experiencing homelessness in residential areas.
Communities across the state have pushed back to varying degrees to permitting homeless shelters and permanent supportive housing in their neighborhoods.
House Bill 2266, which Gov. Bob Ferguson signed Friday, limits their ability to stop these projects.
Ferguson signed the new law, and a slew of other housing-related bills, at HopeWorks Station, an affordable housing complex in Everett.
Permanent supportive housing assists people with disabilities in getting stable housing and resources, while transitional housing is temporary help before people move into something more permanent.
House Bill 2266, sponsored by Rep. Strom Peterson, D-Edmonds, requires cities to allow transitional and permanent supportive housing in residential and hotel development zones in an urban growth area. Indoor emergency shelters and housing must be allowed in zones where hotels are allowed. Under a 2021 law, cities can’t block permanent supportive housing in residential zones, and shelters in areas with hotels.
Local governments subject to the new requirement can’t impose conditions for this so-called “STEP housing” that are more restrictive than for other development. And mandates they can impose on affordable housing providers are limited to income qualification, coordinated entry, reporting and monitoring.
Read the article here
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Pop Up Comedy Show @ The Kitsap Mall
April 2 - April 4, 2026, 7:00pm
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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! | | |
Port Orchard Farmers Market
Saturday, April 4, 2026, 9:00am
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Earth Day @ Poulsbo's Fish Park
Saturday, April 18, 2026, 10:00am
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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:
Blizzard of Oz - Ozzy Osbourne Tribute
Friday, April 3, 2026, 8:30pm
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Montell Jordan & Color Me Badd
Saturday, April 4, 2026, 7:00pm
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Kara Hesse: Devil & The Dove
Album Release Celebration
Saturday, April 4, 2026, 8:00pm
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The Admiral Theatre Presents:
Elvin Bishop & Charlie Musselwhite
Friday, April 3, 2026, 7:30pm
| Elvin Bishop and Charlie Musselwhite are both Blues Hall of Famers and blues legends with over 100 years of professional musicianship between the two of them. They are among the most famous bluesmen in the world. 100 Years of Blues is front-porch, down-home music with Bishop and Musselwhite trading licks and vocals on original songs, as well as some reimagined classics. | |
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Concerts at Port Gamble: Jaimee Harris
Saturday, April 18, 2026, 7:00pm
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Candlelight Concerts @ The Roxy Theatre
Saturday, April 18, 2026
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Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before in Bremerton.
5:30 PM The Best of Hans Zimmer
8:15 PM Queen vs. ABBA
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Umami Jazz Fusion @ The Roxy Theatre
Thursday, April 23, 2026, 7:00pm
| | Get ready for an unforgettable night of sizzling jazz fusion, as UMAMI takes the stage with their electrifying blend of classic 70's fusion anthems and irresistible original compositions. Led by visionary trumpeter John Sakura (Tamaraw, Full Circle, Type A!), this powerhouse ensemble is redefining what it means to experience live jazz. | |
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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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