Wednesday, September 30, 2026 | | What to Know About Washington's Statewide Initiatives Ahead of Nov. 3 General Election | |
Published in the Kitsap Sun, September 29, 2026
Voter guides and ballots are beginning to trickle out to Washington residents this week. And every one, despite the congressional races or local office positions listed, will offer voters the chance to decide on three statewide initiatives.
Washington voters will decide the future of the state's income tax on those making over $1 million (Initiative IL26-645), parental rights for children in public schools (Initiative IL26-001) and athletic participation in female sports for K-12 students (Initiative IL26-638).
Two of the measures (645 and 001) are repeals of existing Washington state law, while Initiative 638 would create new rules for student participation in female sports. On Oct. 8, former U.S. Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler will debate Washington State Labor Council president April Sims on the state income tax measure. The Seattle Times and KING-5 will carry the debate live.
Funds have been poring into the state initiatives this year. Let's Go Washington, the organization that collected signatures to put I-645 on November's ballot, has raised $3.7 million in funds for all three ballot measures. Other organizations, including No on 645, have raised more than $9 million.
Read the article here
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Secure Your Seat at the
WA Hospitality Regional Meeting
Thursday, October 1, 2026, 10:00am
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The Greater Kitsap Chamber is pleased to host the Washington Hospitality Association in their annual outreach efforts this fall. Each fall, the Government Affairs team at Washington Hospitality embarks on a statewide journey to connect with members and nonmembers alike, gaining valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the hospitality industry.
Seating is limited, so reserve your space today!
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GKC Business Awards Gala
Sponsorship Opportunities Available!
| | Help us celebrate the northern lights of our local business community and be a sponsor at the Chamber's 2026 Business Awards Gala! For sponsorship information contact us at (360) 692-6800 or hello@greaterkitsapchamber.com. | |
September Membership Luncheon
Wednesday, September 30, 2026, 11:00am
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This month's luncheon will be held on the third floor of the Kitsap Conference Center. 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.
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Chamber: Off the Clock
Tuesday, October 20, 2026, 5:05pm
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Secure You Spot in the Greater Kitsap
Chamber's Destination Guide
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There's still time to reserve your spot in the 2027 Greater Kitsap Destination Guide!
With 7,500 printed copies distributed throughout Kitsap County and mailed to visitors beyond the region, the Destination Guide is the Greater Kitsap Chamber's premier publication for showcasing local businesses and attractions.
Don't miss this opportunity to put your business in front of residents and visitors alike. Review the rate card and connect with our partners at Lunar Cow Publishing to secure your placement today.
| GKC Giving Away UW Football Tickets | | |
The GKC is giving away 20 tickets for the UW Football game on Friday,
October 9 at 6:00pm against Iowa. Tickets are awarded on a first come first served based with priority given to GKC members. Email us here for a chance to get a ticket!
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Accessible Healthcare with NICE
Business Health Trust Has You Covered
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You don’t have to wait for renewal.
A lot of employers assume benefits can only change at one specific time of year, but that’s not accurate.
If your current plan is causing frustration, summer is a smart time to ask questions. Maybe employees are struggling to find care. Maybe costs are up. Through our chamber’s partnership with Business Health Trust, members can review options, compare plans, and see whether a better fit is available now.
Many BHT medical plans include Nice Healthcare, which gives employees a simple first stop for care at $0. Same-day access for many needs, support for real-life health questions, and guidance on next steps can help employees avoid delays and keep moving.
🔗 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! | |
Kitsap Halloween Bash
Saturday, October 24, 2026, 1:00pm
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Leadership Kitsap Premier Institute Presents:
Who's Running You?
Grow Your Leadership from the Inside Out
Thursday, October 15, 2026
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We all have default habits that shape how we think, respond, and lead, but what if you had more choice in how you show up?
Join Doug Nathan on October 15 for Who’s Running You?, a four-hour interactive LKPI workshop that takes a deeper look at the Inner Team Dialogue framework. Through the Inner Team Assessment and guided exercises, you’ll explore the patterns influencing your leadership and learn practical ways to lead with greater intention, adaptability, and effectiveness.
Whether you’re leading a team, an organization, or simply looking to grow in how you show up as a leader, this workshop is an opportunity to better understand what’s driving you and how to take the lead.
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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 honored to announce our Member of the Quarter: Honeybee Horticulture! Since 2023, Mariah Mendez and her team have created unique, elegant, and creative floral and charcuterie designs for occasions ranging from weddings and corporate events to Chamber: Off the Clock gatherings. We are excited to recognize Mariah and Honeybee Horticulture for their creativity, community involvement, and dedication to helping people connect through memorable experiences across Kitsap and beyond.
Fostering Business Connections Through Charcuterie
The Chamber regularly uses Honeybee Horticulture’s services at our Chamber: Off the Clock after-hours networking events. Mariah not only provides a selection of delicious, fresh food, but intentionally designs a spread for each Off the Clock location. These spreads serve as much more than refreshments. They become natural gathering points where attendees connect, start conversations, and build new business relationships.
Elevating Events Across Kitsap and Beyond
Honeybee Horticulture strives to create celebrations that feel effortless, intentional, and fully experienced. Through planning and coordination services, floral design & installations, and luxury charcuterie catering, they remove the stress of hiring multiple vendors and ensure there are no gaps in an event’s vision. They proudly serve clients throughout Kitsap County and across the Puget Sound region.
Celebrations Designed with Intention
Intentionality is at the heart of Honeybee Horticulture’s philosophy, whether that be crafting a charcuterie spread or a flower arrangement that reflects a specific individual, event, or venue. Mariah and her team excel at creating meaningful experiences that reflect an event’s unique identity.
Whether you're planning a wedding, corporate event, or community celebration, Honeybee Horticulture brings creativity, intentionality, and professionalism to every detail. We are proud to recognize Mariah and her team as our Member of the Quarter and encourage you to check out their services!
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2026 Eggs & Issues Candidate Forum
Tuesday, October 6, 2026, 8:00am
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Join us for the Chamber’s Eggs & Issues Candidate Forums at the Cloverleaf Bar and Grill, a long-standing tradition started by the Bremerton Chamber over 25 years ago. Open to the public; breakfast available for purchase.
Questions? Contact the Chamber at (360) 692-6800.
Forums are every Tuesday morning beginning September 22nd and running through October 27th.
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Immigrant Worker Protection Act
Takes Effect October 1st
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The Immigrant Worker Protection Act requires that employers inform workers within five business days when federal agents have issued a notice to conduct an inspection of workers’ employment eligibility documents, known as I-9 forms.
The Washington State Attorney General's Office has issued guidance to help employers meet their new legal obligations under the law, as well as materials for businesses, including a mandatory workplace poster and model notice forms in multiple languages. The guidance can be found here: Immigrant Worker Protection Act (IWPA) | Washington State
| Business & Professional Development Committee | | Member Education & Training Resources | | |
SCORE: AI Marketing Techniques
Monday, October 5, 2026, 12:00pm
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Immerse yourself in the latest advancements where AI becomes a powerful ally in amplifying your marketing strategies. Join us for an engaging introduction to harnessing the potential of ChatGPT to propel your business forward. Uncover the secrets of applying ChatGPT across key marketing domains, including SEO optimization, crafting compelling copy, sparking creative brainstorming sessions, refining email marketing tactics, and elevating your social media presence. Don't miss this opportunity to discover innovative ways to enhance your business promotion efforts and stay ahead in the dynamic landscape of AI-driven marketing!
Registration Fee: $10.00
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SCORE: Market Research for
Starting a Business
Tuesday, October 6, 2026, 10:00am
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This workshop highlights why market research is critical to startup and product success. Participants will explore how understanding real customer needs reduces risk, strengthens investor confidence, and helps teams move from “technology-first” to “problem-first” thinking. The session emphasizes validating market assumptions, including TAM, SAM, and SOM, to ensure that solutions address meaningful, proven problems worth solving.
Registration Fee: $10.00
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SBDC: Accounting Basics and the
Importance of Accounting to Your Business
Thursday, October 8, 2026, 1:00pm
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Do you know the difference between bookkeeping and accounting? Are you having trouble understanding what financial statements are? Then you have come to the right place. Sign up for our Accounting Basics class and learn the important information that you need to know about your small business accounting.
The instructor, Ann Zimmerman, is a Washington SBDC Certified Business Advisor. She earned her BA in Accounting from Western Washington University and received her Master’s degree in Accounting and Tax from Washington State University. Ann has over thirty years of experience in business and has worked in various industries including retail, construction services, manufacturing, healthcare, and not-for-profit.
Registration Fee: FREE
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Business News & Resources | | State Advances $165M Broadband Expansion | |
Published by the WA State Department of Commerce, September 24, 2026
OLYMPIA, Wash. – The Washington State Broadband Office (WSBO) has finalized agreements with seven awardees under the federal Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program. The agreements mark a major milestone in Washington’s effort to close the digital divide, enabling construction to connect thousands of unserved and underserved locations across the state.
Together, these agreements represent a combined investment of more than $165 million in federal, state and private BEAD funding and will connect an estimated 28,452 households once construction is complete.
“Broadband isn’t a luxury anymore,” said WSBO Director Jordan Arnold. “It’s how kids do homework, how small businesses stay open and how families reach a doctor without driving an hour. These contracts cement our commitment to bring that access to communities across our state who’ve been left out for far too long.”
Read the article here
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AWB Produces Economic Future
Solutions Summit Report
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Published by the Association of WA Business, August 2026
Washington has built an economy that is the envy of the country. It is home to innovative companies, talented workers, world-class research institutions, and businesses of every size that strengthen their communities. But we can’t take those strengths for granted. Rising taxes, regulations and costs are making it harder for employers to invest, grow and plan for the future.
In the spring of 2026, AWB’s statewide employer survey found that nearly one in four businesses was considering leaving the state.
That data point generated statewide, national and even international headlines. For many, the figure was alarming, but hardly surprising. Employer confidence in the state economy has been steadily slipping as Washington businesses face new taxes and regulations and rising costs across the board.
Read the report 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. | | Check Equal Pay Compliance for Free | | |
L&I offers free, customized consultations to help employers understand the impact the Equal Pay and Opportunities Act might have on their organization and employment practices, and provide an evaluation of possible risks.
The Equal Pay and Opportunities Act includes things like:
- Equal pay and career advancement opportunities
- Open wage discussions
- Wage and salary history privacy
- Disclosing salary range
- And more!
To request a consultation, complete this request form. You can also call the Employment Standards Program at 360-902-6625.
| | Nonprofit News & Resources | |
Are Your Nonprofit Committee
Meetings Effective?
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Published by NonprofitPRO, September 22, 2026
Photo: Getty Images
You probably work with a lot of committees and teams. These groups can be useful for sharing information, brainstorming and decision-making. But “groupthink” is a risk.
You’ve no doubt heard the critique, “Seems like it was written by a committee” — when everything was boiled down to the point where it really doesn’t say anything novel, groundbreaking or even interesting.
Is there a better way to run a meeting?
Decidedly, yes.
Read the article here
| | County Decision Allows More Density at Growing Silverdale Development | |
Published in the Kitsap Sun, Sept. 25, 2026
Photo credit: Meegan M. Reid/Kitsap Sun
The sprawling development along Highway 303 between Silverdale and Brownsville is likely to accommodate more density, possibly more than 600 housing units total, after the Kitsap County Hearing Examiner in September approved an appeal for some changes at the Royal Valley Development.
The phase of the project scrutinized by Hearing Examiner Susan Elizabeth Drummond's decision includes the project's "Phase 2," accommodating 328 residential units on 65 acres approximately in the middle of the overall parcel of land, according to plans filed with Kitsap County. That number includes a mix of single-family homes, townhomes, cottages and apartments and a reference to 276 multi-family units.
The Kitsap County Hearing Examiner, which is an administrative judge that reviews land-use proposals that make requests for county code variations, had issued a denial for that phase of the project on July 16, 2026. The decision ultimately weighed a request to build townhomes on smaller lot sizes with less distance between lots than is required in Kitsap County zoning rules, but raised several related issues with ongoing work and future planning.
Read the article here
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Kitsap League of Women Voters
General Election Candidate Forums
September 28 - October 7, 2026
| For the November 3rd General Election, the League of Women Voters of Kitsap will invite all candidates for the following races to participate in candidate forums: State Representatives for Legislative Districts 23 and 26, State Senator for Legislative District 26, US Representative for Congressional District 6, as well as the following Kitsap County races: County Commissioner District 3, Assessor, Clerk, Prosecuting Attorney, and Sheriff. They will also conduct a forum for the Kitsap County PUD proposal. | |
Kitsap Fix-It Fair in Poulsbo
Saturday, October 3, 2026, 11:00am
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Do you have something broken at home? Instead of throwing it away, see if it can be repaired at the next Fix-it Fair! This free community repair event helps reduce waste by extending the life of household items through repair rather than replacement.
Join us on Saturday, October 3, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Poulsbo Kitsap Regional Library, 700 NE Lincoln Road.
Hosted by the Kitsap County Solid Waste Division in partnership with the Poulsbo Kitsap Regional Library, the Fix-It Fair connects residents with skilled volunteer fixers who will attempt to repair items while sharing practical repair tips and techniques.
Kitsap County residents can bring up to two items for volunteer fixers to assess and attempt repairs.
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Kitsap Hobby Hunt
Saturday, October 10, 12:00pm
| Kitsap Regional Library invites the community to Quincy Square for a local Hobby Fair! Explore new passions, meet local enthusiasts, and connect with clubs, organizations, and activity groups from all across Bremerton. | | |
Clearwater Casino Presents:
Non Jovi - Bon Jovi Tribute
Friday, October 2, 2026, 8:30pm
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Infinity Project - Journey Tribute
Saturday, October 3, 2026, 8:30pm
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The Ultimate Doors: Tribute to The Doors
Admiral Theatre Bremerton
Friday, October 2, 2026
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The Ultimate Doors has long been celebrated as one of the most authentic and powerful Doors tribute bands in the country. Described by fans and critics as “uncannily true to the original” and “the closest you’ll get to seeing The Doors live today,” the band has built its reputation on delivering a raw, electrifying, and immersive experience that captures the spirit of Jim Morrison and The Doors with uncanny accuracy.
What sets The Ultimate Doors apart is their obsessive attention to authenticity. From the period-correct instruments and vintage gear that recreate The Doors’ unmistakable tones, to the styling, stage presence, and energy that mirror the original band, every detail is crafted to transport audiences back to 1968. The four musicians of The Ultimate Doors combine to create a sound so faithful that fans often remark they feel as though they’re at a real Doors concert. It’s not just a tribute….it’s a time machine.
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Bremerton Night Market
Friday, October 2, 2026, 5:00pm
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Within/Earshot Jazz Festival
Camila Ferrari
Friday, October 2, 2026, 7:00pm
| Uruguayan singer-songwriter Camila Ferrari brings her intense, emotionally raw sound to BIMA during Within/Earshot Jazz Festival! This is a rare chance to catch this rising voice of South American indie music before her growing international career takes her even further from reach. | |
Port Gamble Theater Presents:
Anne of Green Gables
October 2 - October 18, 2026
| | Anne of Green Gables follows the story of the feisty orphan, Anne Shirely. Adopted from an orphanage in Nova Scotia. Anne’s acclimation to life in Avonlea isn’t exactly smooth sailing. The Cuthbert siblings wanted a quiet boy to help out around their farm, but instead they receive Anne, a redheaded, freckle-faced, free spirit who turns their lives upside down with her quirky behavior. Follow Anne as she navigates school, friendship, and life in Avonlea through this charming coming-of-age tale. | |
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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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