Kitsap County
LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER
Welcome to the New Neighbors Guide!
On behalf of the local community, we welcome you to Kitsap County. Whether you’re here temporarily or making this your permanent home, we know you’re going to love our region. With our natural beauty, lakes, streams and forested trails, this is the perfect location for outdoor fun. With some of the best coffee in the world and a vibrant food and entertainment scene, Kitsap County has something for everyone.
Let’s face it, moving to a new city can be costly and timeconsuming—but it’s also exciting! This guide is written with a mix of perspectives from native Kitsap Countians to people who moved here from out of the area. Our group reminisced about what we wished people had told us when we first moved here.
This resource guide offers tips and reminders to help with the nuts and bolts of setting up your new home. This resource will also help you get connected to your local community, schools and healthcare, and help you put down roots in your daily life here. From great ideas for your home and events to engage in the Kitsap community, we have you covered.
As we put together this issue, we look forward to providing you with information and education about all the “best things” in Kitsap County and we hope to give you a sense of place where you belong and feel connected. We welcome you, our “new neighbor,” to Kitsap County.
Kindest regards,
Robin Lucas
Robin Lucas, Publisher
Publisher
Robin Lucas
Office Manager
Kris Carver
Editing Team
Cynthia Boyd
Pamela Holt
Calendar Editor
Sally Perkins
Art Director
Susan Newsom
Website
Kelly McKay
Social Media
Madison Ford
Writing Team
Natalie Benson
Lynn Castle
Leah Grout
Julie Leydelmeyer
Kelly Lenihan
Mary Ellen Psaltis
Hillary Ryan
Photography
P5 Photography
Sales Team
Marcy Angel
Saundra Coffen
New Neighbors Guide is a division of ShowCase Media
Cover photo: The Cruz Family. Photo by P5 Photography
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KITSAP COUNTY
Welcome
TO KITSAP COUNTY
BY LYNN CASTLE
You’re now a resident of scenic Kitsap County filled with amazing water views, fantastic outdoor recreation and vibrant history. But before you can enjoy all the County has to offer, you have some vital tasks to complete.
REGISTER TO VOTE
Getting active and informed about your local and state government starts with registering to vote. If you have a current Washington State driver’s license or state ID, you can register to vote online in your new location at voter.votewa.gov/WhereToVote. If you moved to Kitsap County from out of state, you can register at the Auditor’s Office up until 8pm on Election Day. The County Auditor’s Office, located in the county seat of Port Orchard, is at 619 Division Street on the third floor.
GET YOUR FURRY FRIEND A KITSAP COUNTY LICENSE
Any move can be hard on your four-legged companions. Protect them with licensing. The best way to do that is to visit the Kitsap Humane Society which is the pet-licensing agent for all jurisdictions in Kitsap County. They offer easy online or in-person licensing. kitsap-humane.org
LEARN YOUR PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS
Kitsap Transit is the public transit agency serving your new neighborhood. The system is based in Bremerton and operates bus service on 40 fixed routes, a foot ferry, a vanpool system, worker-driver services, and dial-aride services. The Kitsap Fast Ferries are also operated by Kitsap Transit. kitsaptransit.com
UPDATE YOUR DRIVER’S LICENSE
If you currently have a Washington State driver’s license, then visit dol.wa.gov to change the address. If you moved from out of state, here’s what you’ll need to transfer your driver’s license to Washington.
1. Proof of identity, Social Security number, and residency in Washington.
2. Complete list of acceptable documents.
3. Out-of-state driver’s license.
4. Payment for required fees: $35 application fee
Visit a Troll on Bainbridge Island
A troll is defined as an imaginary, either very large or very small, creature in traditional Scandinavian stories that has magical powers and lives in mountains or caves. Danish culture has a long history in the Puget Sound, so showcasing artwork depicting various trolls was a natural fit for several locations around the Pacific Northwest, including Bainbridge Island.
Installed in the summer of 2023, Pia the Peacemaker, created by Copenhagen-based artist Thomas Dambo, is an 18-foot-tall troll made from recycled wood that now resides at the island’s Sakai Park. Pia is part of a six-display installation with placements throughout the Pacific Northwest.
With a mission to promote Danish culture throughout the Northwest, Scan Design Foundation spearheaded and funded much of the overall project with the Bainbridge Island Parks install being guided by Park District Commissioner Dawn Janow. “As amazing as our parks are, I recognized there wasn’t a lot of art and I wanted to bring more engaging things for our visitors,” said Janow.
Janow, a Park Commissioner since 2019, went on to say, “Pia is quite joyful, and art introduces the park to people in a way they have never seen it before while showcasing the artist’s message of respecting the environment and encouraging people to be mindful of the trash you throw away.”
The project was begun in the fall of 2022 and completed in less than a year through the wonderful support of the community. In addition to Thomas Dambo’s talented team, the sculpture took shape with the help of the Park Service’s crew, Scout Troop 1496, Cub Scout Pack 4496, and numerous dedicated volunteers spanning seven weeks.
Throughout this construction process, the Scout Troop and Scout Pack transformed into the “Troll Patrol,” responsibly managing the site and tools during nighttime. From disassembling wooden pallets, cutting wood pieces, screwing and hammering parts, clearing brush, and making meals for the crew, the Bainbridge Island community played a vital role.
BY LYNN CASTLE
BAINBRIDGE ISLAND TROLL biparks.org/bainbridge-troll
LIFE IN KITSAP COUNTY
BY LYNN CASTLE
Kitsap County is known for its deep indigenous roots and its military and timber industries. The area provides a wide array of activities to keep you and your family active and engaged in your surroundings.
HISTORY
Kitsap County was originally named Slaughter County in 1857, but only six months later became Kitsap County, named after Chief Kitsap, a Suquamish tribal leader. To this day, the Suquamish Tribe play a vital role in the Kitsap community.
Other vital roles are filled in by the military via the sea. The Puget Sound Naval Station (PSNS) is one of the largest naval shipyards on earth at 650 acres. After the attack on Pearl Harbor, five of the six surviving battleships were sent to the Bremerton shipyard for repair.
GET SOME FRESH AIR
The County is practically surrounded by water and many outdoor and water activities abound from whale watching to fantastic hiking trails. Martha Stewart visited Heronswood Garden in Kingston in North Kitsap County and called it, “One of the best places on earth.” Or, check out Hansville’s Point No Point beach park which hosts the oldest lighthouse on Puget Sound.
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in the country and it was invented on Bainbridge Island by three men, including Joel Pritchard, a Washington congressman. Enjoy it and many other sports throughout the county.
Your medical needs will be met in the area by St. Michael Medical Center in Silverdale which just underwent a $500 million dollar expansion project. The hospital is part of Virginia Mason Franciscan Health’s system of 10 hospitals and 230 specialty clinics in the Puget Sound.
ARTS AND CULTURE
Kitsap Peninsula is rich with arts and culture, from museums showcasing the region’s diverse people, creations, and history to dozens of venues featuring live theater, dance, and music. A quick list includes the Kitsap Maritime Heritage Foundation, Naval Undersea Museum, the Japanese American Memorial and Puget Sound Navy Museum. Check out visitkitsap.com/arts-and-culture for a comprehensive look at what’s happening in Kitsap County.
Two Fantastic Cities to Visit ONE GREAT CHAMBER
BY LYNN CASTLE
According to David Emmons, President & CEO of the Greater Kitsap Chamber and Visitor Center, “A huge part of our mission here at the Chamber is to promote tourism.” With fun family events like Whale Days, the Great Kitsap Duck Race, and the Armed Forces Day Festival and Parade, Bremerton and Silverdale provide excellent reasons to visit the area. And, for those moving to the area, these events add to your enjoyment in your new community.
With 600 members, the Greater Kitsap Chamber and Visitor Center provides the local community with information to make the most of living in the region. “For new people coming to the area, I would encourage you to check out our website . . . we are a great resource,” said Emmons.
Formed in 2022 through the merger of two highly successful Chambers, Bremerton and Silverdale, the Greater Kitsap Chamber and Visitor Center is well-positioned to promote the entire region collaboratively. “With great shopping opportunities, the military presence, and a world-class healthcare community, our region is a destination for many,” Emmons said. The wonderful restaurants and array of hotel accommodations enhance the area’s tourism draw.
More upcoming events include this summer’s Wings Over Washington at the Bremerton Airport in August and the addition of a Fan Zone during the 2026 World Cup when the Men’s National team will be hosted. The Water Trails District affords wonderful opportunities to explore the waterways abundant in the region at all times of the year. With more than 283 miles of waterfront, you can always find somewhere new to explore.
For over 40 years, the Greater Kitsap Chamber has provided outstanding assistance, community development, membership services, and enjoyable networking opportunities in partnership with area businesses, professionals, community groups, and the military. With offices in both Silverdale and Bremerton, the Chamber offers visitor information that is convenient and accessible within Kitsap Mall and the Bremerton office located at 4th & Pacific Avenue.
GREATER KITSAP CHAMBER greaterkitsapchamber.com/chamber
B & B Auto Repair: From One Family to the Next
BY LYNN CASTLE
For the past four decades, B & B Auto Repair has been providing service and repair to Olympic Peninsula customers. Founded by Brothers Nathan and Joel Baxter, giving back to the community they serve was a cornerstone of their business model. Now with retirement on the horizon for the brothers, they are passing the torch from their family business to another Kitsap County family- The Andersons.
Over a four-year period, Mieka and Jeremiah Anderson will be building their own equity in the company until they eventually become 100% vested owners in 2028. During this timeframe, they will serve as Shop Administrator and Certified ASE Master Technician respectively. Working to continue the family traditions and relationships with the community of Kitsap County, the Andersons plan to continue in the path laid before them by the Baxter brothers.
According to Mieka, “We don’t want to change how B & B Auto Repair is immersed heavily in the community. People will now just see myself or my husband as the face of the business.” If the last year is any indication, the Andersons already feel welcome. “Jeremiah and I have really appreciated the amazing support we have received from the Bremerton community for the transition.”
While the family vibe of B & B Auto Repair won’t change, customers may notice some updates the Andersons are planning. From new floors and signage to a waiting room with plugins and Wi-Fi plus a fun kids play area, the shop will be more inviting.
As a family-owned business, B & B Auto Repair is excited to transition from one family to the next. The family spirit will be alive and well for decades to come at B & B Auto Repair as the Anderson’s oldest son, Owen, is an active team member already. At just 24, Owen has already finished his AA in Master Technician and his ASE certification.
“Over the years, there is trust that you build between a shop and yourself and you can’t find that just anywhere. We are going to treat you like your family by being very transparent,” Mieke said. Through continuous education and placing a priority on learning about new advances in automobile designs, the Andersons plan to be “the best we can be for our customers.”
B&B AUTO REPAIR bnbautorepair.com
The Kids Discovery Museum on Bainbridge Island is Kitsap County’s premier children’s museum and serves over 35,000 visitors annually. KiDiMu has been dedicated to fulfilling the early developmental needs of the children in the community. The exhibits are designed to stimulate and challenge young minds, promoting learning, growth, and discovery in a fun and interactive way.
The play options cover a wide range of areas, from make-believe and science to engineering, art, physics, and beyond. Budding scientists explore rotating exhibits like the Nature Telescope, Pixelization pin wall, the Nano, and Women in STEM exhibits. Creativity lovers tinker in the Creation Station, Light Wall, and Art Studio, while imaginative kids play in the Our Town exhibit.
Targeted for kids six months to 10 years, KiDiMu is located In the heart of downtown Winslow next to restaurants, shops, and wineries. Parents will enjoy exploring the exhibits and playing on the light wall. The museum is continuously monitored to be safe and clean and there is an outdoor area for fresh air and getting the wiggles out.
FAMILY FUN at the Kids Discovery Museum
BY MORGAN MARICI
ATTRACTIONS
OUR TOWN - a make-believe town with a bank, vet clinic, and grocery store
PIRATE TREEHOUSE equipped with a slide
FERRY HELM
BUG MICROSCOPE
CREATION STATION - a builder’s dream with a Rigamajig that has endless fabrication options
OUTSIDE PLAY AREA with rock climbing wall, light wall, rotating STEM exhibits, arts & crafts room
HOME EXHIBIT - exploring home life of other cultures
YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMMING
FIRST FRIDAY - pay-what-you-will admission & Art Walk
MINIMU - bi-weekly pop-up for little ones
THEMED ACTIVITY POP-UPS
KIDS DISCOVERY MUSEUM
Fall Hours: 1pm-5pm Monday & Friday 9am-4pm Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday & Sunday Closed Wednesday kidimu.org
BY LYNN CASTLE
mA ENROLLING IN SCHOOL IN KITSAP COUNTY
move can be a traumatic event for our kids—a new school being one of the most daunting challenges for both them and for you as parents. There are 78 public schools in Kitsap County that serve over 34,000 students as well as 32 private schools that meet the needs of nearly 2,400 students. The biggest districts are Bainbridge, Bremerton, Central Kitsap, North Kitsap and South Kitsap. To find schools in Kitsap County, go online to nces.ed.gov/ccd/districtsearch
Most schools now offer online registration which can be a huge timesaver. You will need some basic information about your child’s past schools and transcripts, their vaccination and health records, who to contact in an emergency, proof of address and your personal identification as their parent.
Once registered, you can explore the schools’ policies on everything from in-class and online learning to after school activities and childcare.
PENINSULA CREDIT UNION:
Small Enough to Care, Big Enough to Help
Peninsula Credit Union (PCU) is one of the nation’s first community-chartered, member-owned credit unions. Formed in 1935 by employees of the Rainier Pulp and Paper Company in Shelton, Peninsula Credit Union now serves more than 20,000 members.
With branches in Shelton, Belfair, Port Orchard, Poulsbo and Port Townsend, Peninsula Credit Union is different from other credit unions. According to Hollyanna Vopat-Steiner, a mortgage loan officer with PCU, “We really try and help people to find their yes . . . if we have to say no, we will find a path and fight for everyone to get to their yes.”
Peninsula Credit Union employees proudly uphold the mission of the organization: “We listen, we serve, we educate, we care . . . always.” Whether it is by serving the community with individual volunteer hours and supporting local non-profits like the YMCA or providing access to a community financial advisor who can help you build a budget, teach you to rebuild your credit, and give you a sound financial education, PCU has your best interests at heart.
“I wholeheartedly believe our members see this from all the PCU employees. We don’t judge, we know life happens,” said VopatSteiner. “PCU is great for someone in all walks of life, offering services and products
BY LYNN CASTLE
for everyone’s needs, no matter where you are in your life.”
The Peninsula Credit Union team is conscious of its roots, mindful of its responsibilities, and energized by its mission to help their members navigate an increasingly complex financial world. “Our leadership made decisions based on the needs they saw from our members and in our community and they created programs to address them.”
Ensuring everyone who works at PCU is a certified financial planner is one way they
work toward their mission to help people improve their financial knowledge. Another program is the Bite of Reality, a program implanted at Shelton High School to teach students what it means to manage money.
Peninsula Credit Union is a federally chartered credit union, regulated by the National Credit Union Administration that serves Kitsap, Mason, Jefferson, Clallam, and Grays Harbor Counties.
PENINSULA CREDIT UNION pcfcu.org
GIVING BACK IN KITSAP COUNTY
BY LYNN CASTLE
Our communities thrive through the input and inspiration of those members in it. We grow, improve, and succeed by working together. As you begin to explore the Kitsap communities, take a moment to look around and discover what is important to you and your family. Then take that next step to make a difference in areas you care about. You can volunteer your time, share your expertise and, of course, donate financially to specific causes.
There are an abundance of charities in Kitsap County, and you can explore them through the Kitsap County Community Foundation
(KCCF) website. Their vision is to foster an abundant future where everyone in our community has the opportunity to thrive through inspired generosity. As a catalyst for greater good, the KCCF works with donors and others in the region to invest in non-profit organizations and foster a more vibrant Kitsap County.
To find ways to become involved by volunteering or discover the best organizations to donate to, visit the Kitsap Community Foundation website. kcf.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/list/directory
You can search by category:
• Animals
• Arts & Culture
• Basic Needs
• Community Improvement
• Education
• Environment
• Health
• Human Services
• Youth Development
Winston Churchill once said, “We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.”
MAKING YOUR HOUSE Home A
Tips to transform a house into a home with decor and furniture from the heart
~ Design tips provided by Sage Interiors in Tacoma
*Your entry is the initial introduction to your home and sets the stage for you and your guests. Place a cozy rug or floor mat inside the door to define the entry and give an immediate sense of personality. A reclaimed wood bench, umbrella stand or coat rack, and luscious candles complete the welcoming picture.
*Be creative with your space. Move items at an angle, layer different rugs, and add a wall of photos and memories. Use your imagination to make the space warm, inviting and as unique as you are.
*Try to bring nature inside. Although the Northwest is overflowing with the beauty of nature, we all know that during our wet, gloomy weather we may stay inside for much of the time. Visit your local nursery to get tips on what kind of plants will work for your space, the amount of light available, and your lifestyle.
*Incorporate different elements such as wood, metal, glass and greenery throughout each room to bring warmth and life to your spaces. Mirrors not only provide style and function but also lighten up a room and help create movement.
Getting Settled into a new home
BY LYNN CASTLE
Well before you start unpacking, you should follow a few simple steps to ensure a smooth transition that also ensures your peace of mind.
GET YOUR UTILITIES SET UP
Having heat and lights as soon as you arrive is a priority:
• Electricity
• Water and sewer
• Wi-Fi and internet does this impact your email address?
• Garbage pick up service
• Television whether cable or streaming
MAILING ADDRESSES BEFORE AND AFTER THE MOVE
Before:
Fill out change of address forms with the US Post Office so your mail will forward.
After:
Change your address with your bank, credit cards, online retailers, PayPal, and other businesses you want to continue doing business with.
UNPACKING TIPS
• If you moved major appliances such as a washer, dryer, refrigerator, etc., plug them in right away and run them to ensure they work. If not, you may need to file an insurance claim or talk to your movers about compensation.
• Save your receipts for tax purposes as many expenses related to moving for a job are deductible.
• Check that all boxes are fully empty and break them down for recycling. Offer your boxes and packing materials to others for use when you are done through OfferUp or Craigslist. Recycle any that are unusable.
• In the throes of packing, you probably kept items you didn’t really want in the interest of time. Now as you unpack, make sure you truly want the items you are unpacking before you put them in your home. Start a box for a local charity or to have a garage sale in the near future so you can meet your new neighbors.
Embrace the Chill with Confidence!
Are your roof, windows and siding ready to weather the winter storms? Don’t let the frosty season sneak up on you. At Tristate Roofing, we’re here to ensure your home stays cozy and leak-free all winter long. Complimentary inspections and estimates! Warm up with great savings and 100% financing OAC! Don’t wait until winter’s icy grip takes hold. Act now to secure your home’s comfort and safety while enjoying incredible winter savings.
TRISTATE ROOFING:
WE GOT YOU COVERED!
BY LYNN CASTLE
Tristate Roofing is more than just a roofing company. With five locations in the Puget Sound, having just added our new office on the Olympic Peninsula in Sequim, Tristate Roofing also offers windows, siding, gutters, doors and—just recently added—patio covers and decks, just in time for summer, to their inclusive array of exterior home specialties.
Started more than two decades ago by owner John Holum, Tristate Roofing believes strongly in their customer service. “So many companies sub out their projects and communication and service go way down. We don’t do that,” said Holum. Tristate has companyemployed roofers that are given training and direction from on-site project managers on every job. But the Tristate difference doesn’t stop with knowledgeable staff offering great customer service. They also have some of the best products and warranties around.
As the leading roofing manufacturer in North America, more homes and businesses in the U.S. are protected by a GAF roof than by any other product. So, it’s a big deal to be a GAF Master Elite installer and in 2024 became 1 of only 2 companies in Washington to be awarded the Double Star membership in the GAF President’s Club. According to Holum, “It means that GAF stands behind our work and in turn that means we can offer our clients the best warranties.”
Tristate Roofing understands the need for a lasting, durable warranty that customers can count on, so they only use brands that offer robust product warranties. “Our warranties set us apart, as well as our relationships with manufacturers.” For example, Tristate is a Pella Platinum Certified Contractor. Less than 1% of national contractors can boast that distinction.
With 24/7 emergency services and home Maintenance Packages, Tristate is there for all your needs through constant communication and follow-up with protocols put together by Holum. Once the sale is made, there is a series of calls to explain what to expect and make sure the client knows exactly what happens next. Holum said, “I want to be the Nordstrom of the roofing business.”
With more than 60 employees, Tristate works through and with the community to be a strong business partner. With programs to support Habitat for Humanity, Toys for Tots, aging seniors, Rebuilding South Sound, and Little League teams, Tristate is invested in the communities they serve.
TRISTATE ROOFING tristate.pro
It Isn’t Raining…It’s Recharging
In the Pacific Northwest, and especially in Kitsap County, we are blessed with an abundance of water. “But that doesn’t mean it is unlimited,” said KPUD’s Water Resources Manager, Joel Purdy. As a hydrogeologist trained at University of Washington and Western Washington University, Purdy maintains the databases for Kitsap County with information on water supply, rainfall, and stream flows through precise tracking and measurements.
While Purdy, born and raised on Whidbey Island, admits there is plenty of water in
Kitsap County, sometimes the water extracted isn’t necessarily where people live. So developing and maintaining a regional delivery system has been a vital part of KPUD’s mission for the last 30 years. The location of the county can be challenging in part because of the rain shadow cast from the Olympic Mountains to the west. Parts of the county receive 30 inches of rain a year, while other areas receive more than 80 inches of rain.
“We are constantly looking at the inputs and outputs of the water resources. The outputs
BY LYNN CASTLE
include pumping from wells and the stream flow out to the Puget Sound. The input is the precipitation falling on Kitsap County and we measure the water levels in our aquifers for the storage component.” Purdy said. With over 50 water systems owned and operated by KPUD, they service all quadrants of Kitsap County.
In the summer months, KPUD still advises wise watering practices. According to Purdy, “In the summer there is real stress on the water systems and, while built for peak demand, the systems aren’t built for overuse.” In short, be mindful of your sprinkler systems and don’t overwater. It is better for the environment and keeps all Kitsap citizens’ water charges lower.
During the winter, some people find the rain to be depressing. Purdy suggests looking at it as recharging the aquifers versus just gloomy raining days. “And it maintains streamflow for the fish.”
There is a lot of publicity about water shortages in the Southwest and Midwest United States, but Kitsap County residents can feel confident that KPUD is acting as an insightful manager. “As purveyors in general, KPUD wants sustainable resources, so we watch how hard we pump and for how long to manage this valuable resource.”
KITSAP PUBLIC UTILITY DISTRICT kpud.org
SINCLAIRS 22: A Hallmark Movie Plot BY
“When people visit Sinclairs 22 for the first time, I often tell them it is a combination of a business adventure and a Hallmark movie,” said owner Denise Kulak. Along with her life partner, David Trout, Kulak opened the Bay Street wine shop in Port Orchard in November 2022.
According to Kulak, “David and I saw the space and I was instantly drawn to it as a potential art gallery, but David, who has lived here for more than 20 years, felt it wouldn’t have the draw.” Following Trout’s advice and that of the landlord, Kulak was encouraged to open the space as a wine shop. With her third-generation retail background, fine art experience, and her East Coast can-do attitude, she has created an experiential space that feels like you stumbled into an off-the-beatenpath artist’s studio or gallery.
A self-proclaimed city chick, Kulak moved to the area four years ago and is embracing the opportunity to learn all she can about her new community. “We are in the store every day, so our guests interact with the owners every time they visit.”
Sinclairs 22 sells regional wines from the Willamette and Yakima Valleys. Through their fantastic relationships with vendors and wineries, they also sell international brands from Chile, Transylvania, Romania, Israel, South Africa, France, and Spain. One of their first relationships with a winery in Tuscany started through Trout’s connection to them after years of buying their wines by the case.
Visitors at Sinclairs 22 can purchase a 2 ounce sample or a full glass and enjoy the ambiance created with Trout’s construction and woodworking expertise and the vision he and Kulak had for the space. Wanting to further their commitment to the community, they developed the Bay Street Art Hop. Featuring a new local artist on display in the store every month, the event extends to other area businesses with the goal “to give people a purpose to come to the area.” Encompassing art, music, wine, and a variety of entertainment like a psychic astrologer and face painters, the Bay Street Art Hop is held on the third Friday of every month from 3-7pm.
SINCLAIRS 22 sinclairs22.com
LYNN CASTLE
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
OCTOBER
Bremerton Community Farmers Market Thursdays through October, 4-7pm 1400 Park Ave, Bremerton bremertoncommunityfarmersmarket.com
Port Orchard Farmers Market
Saturdays through October 19, 9am-2pm Waterfront Boardwalk, Port Orchard pofarmersmarket.org
Bainbridge Island Farmers Market Saturdays through November, 10am-2pm Town Square at City Hall 280 Madison Ave N, Bainbridge Island bainbridgeislandfarmersmarket.com
Poulsbo Farmers Market
Saturdays through December 14, 10am-2pm 18901 8th Ave NE, Poulsbo 360.779.6720 | poulsbofarmersmarket.org
Kitsap County Parks Clean-Ups Select Weekdays & Saturdays Volunteer Opportunities kitsapgov.com
Poulsbo Film Festival
October 13-15
Historic Downtown Poulsbo poulsbofilmfestival.com
Submit calendar entries to calendar@showcasemedialive.com
Nick Carter of Backstreet Boys
October 16, 7:30pm
Admiral Theatre 515 Pacific Ave, Bremerton 360.373.6743 | admiraltheatre.org
Art Hop
October 18 & Every 3rd Friday, 3-7pm Downtown Port Orchard pobsa.com/calendar
Harvey
October 18-27, Fridays 7pm, Saturdays & Sundays, 2 & 7pm
Port Gamble Theater View Dr NE, Port Gamble 360.977.7135 | portgambletheater.com
Caught in the Net
October 18-20, Friday & Saturday 7:30pm, Sunday 2:30pm
Robert Montgomery Auditorium 599 Lebo Blvd, Bremerton 360.373.5152 | bctshows.com
Fort Ward Parkrun
October 19 & Every Saturday, 9am Fort Ward Park Trail
Fort Ward Hill Rd NE & Belfair Ave, Bainbridge Island parkrun.us/fortward
Rocky Horror Picture Show
October 26, 7:30pm
Admiral Theatre
515 Pacific Ave, Bremerton 360.373.6743 | admiraltheatre.org
West Sound Roller Derby
October 26, 4-10pm
Kitsap County Fairgrounds Sun Pavilion 1200 NW Fairgrounds Rd NW, Bremerton kitsapgov.com
Trick or Treat Poulsbo
October 31, 4-6pm Downtown Poulsbo visitpoulsbo.com
Trick or Treat Silverdale October 31, 5-7pm
Kitsap Mall 10315 Silverdale Way NW, Silverdale shopkitsapmall.com
NOVEMBER
Holiday Show
November-December
Sidney Art Gallery & Museum
202 Sidney Ave, Port Orchard 360.876.3693 | sidneymuseumandarts.org
A 1940s Christmas Carol November 1-24, Fridays & Saturdays 7:30pm, Sundays 2pm Jewel Box Theater 225 N Iverson, Poulsbo jewelboxpoulsbo.org
First Friday Art Walk November 1, December 6, 1-7pm
Kids Discovery Museum 301 Ravine Lane 206.855.4650 | kidimu.org
Blithe Spirit
November 1-24, Fridays 7:30pm, Sundays 2:30pm
Robert Montgomery Auditorium
599 Lebo Blvd, Bremerton 360.373.5152 | bctshows.com
Art in the Woods Studio Tour
November 8-10, 10am-5pm
N Kitsap Art Studio locations cafnw.org
Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead
November 9, December 14 & 2nd Saturdays
Puget Sound Navy Museum
251 First St, Bremerton 360.479.7447 | pugestsoundnavymuseum.org
Veterans Day Celebration
November 11, 10am-3pm
Kitsap County Fairgrounds Sun Pavilion 1195 NW Fairgrounds Rd, Bremerton kitsapgov.com
Jingle Fest
November 16, 9am-6pm
Kitsap County Fairgrounds President’s Hall 1250 Fairgrounds Rd NW, Bremerton kitsapgov.com
Shawn Colvin & KT Tunstall
November 16, 7:30pm
Admiral Theatre
515 Pacific Ave, Bremerton 360.373.6743 | admiraltheatre.org
Women of Note
November 17, 3pm
Central Kitsap High School Performing Arts Center
10140 Frontier Place NW, Silverdale bremertonwestsoundsymphony.org
Holiday Gift & Food Fair
November 22 - 24
Kitsap County Fairgrounds Sun Pavilion 1200 Fairgrounds Rd NW, Bremerton kitsapgov.com
Poulsbo Tree Lighting Ceremony
November 29, 5-7pm
Waterfront Park, Poulsbo visitpoulsbo.com
DECEMBER
Washington College Savings Plans (WA529) Year-Round, Monthly Webinars 800.955.2318 | 529.wa.gov/webinars
Michael Cavanaugh: A Merry Rockin’ Christmas
December 5, 7pm Admiral Theatre 515 Pacific Ave, Bremerton 360.373.6743 | admiraltheatre.org
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever December 6-22, Fridays 7pm, Saturdays & Sundays 2 & 7pm Port Gamble Theater View Dr NE, Port Gamble 360.977.7135 | portgambletheater.com
Dasher, Dancer, Prancer & Pygmies
December 9-10, 10am-5pm
Kitsap County Fairgrounds Sheep Barn 1195 NW Fairgrounds Rd, Bremerton kitsapgov.com
Girl Named Tom
December 11, 7:30pm
Admiral Theatre
515 Pacific Ave, Bremerton 360.373.6743 | admiraltheatre.org
Lighted Ships Parade
December 14, 5pm
Poulsbo Waterfront poulsboyachtclub.org
Holiday Happenings
December 15, 3pm
Bremerton Performing Arts Center 1500 13th St, Bremerton bremertonwestsoundsymphony.org
$5 Movie Night: It’s A Wonderful Life
December 18, 7:30pm
Admiral Theatre
515 Pacific Ave, Bremerton 360.373.6743 | admiraltheatre.org
King Bach December 21, 7pm
Suquamish Clearwater Casino Event Center 15347 Suquamish Way NE, Suquamish clearwatercasino.com
Local Chef Brings Brasil to You
BY MORGAN MARICI
A good cook is like an artist, mixing colors and mediums while experimenting to produce a beautiful picture.
Sandra Rocha Evanoff was born in the Bahia region of northern Brazil. As a child, she was introduced to the kitchen while assisting her mother in the small bed and breakfast she operated. She learned about fresh foods from her father who operated a fruit market. This combination of exposure started her love for cooking and fresh food.
When she was a teen, Sandra experimented with recipes, using her friends as subjects and preparing meals for small dinner parties. When she went to college, she began a small take-out business called “Feijoada To Go,” preparing the most traditional dish of Brazilians. “This taught me the process of food delivery and helped me earn money to help finance my studies,” says Sandra. She received her degree in international studies, however, cooking was her passion.
Sandra eventually relocated to the United States and set out to bring the Pacific Northwest the real Brazilian food from her roots to the Kitsap County community and beyond. She creates beautiful and colorful foods with influences of indigenous Portuguese and Africans. Sandra runs and operates a woman-owned business where she “brings her food and culture” to the dinner party at your location. She is passionate about teaching people how to cook and enjoy this wonderful food from her homeland.
She also believes in giving back to her community and homeland. Proceeds from her dinners help support local nonprofits where she donates food. A percentage of the proceeds and part of the profits also support her homeland of Brazil.
BRASIL COMES TO YOU brasilcomestoyou.com
FAR BANK: Built Around a Passion for Fly Fishing
BY LYNN CASTLE
Living in the Pacific Northwest, outdoor activities surround us, especially with the abundance of water in Kitsap County. Whether your healthy obsession is camping, hiking, or biking or something else entirely, the great people from Far Bank want to encourage you to consider fly fishing.
According to Tag Kleiner, Chief Marketing and Product Officer at Far Bank, “While we develop and manufacture iconic rods, reels, and fly lines known around the globe, at Far Bank we really just want people to get outdoors and go fly fishing.” He added, “We believe in getting people outside walls and enjoying the wild.”
Far Bank is globally known, but really it is a cottage industry led by more than 250 people across four brands with footprints on Bainbridge Island, the SODO area of Seattle, Idaho Falls, and Ashland, Oregon. Filled with hard-working, dedicated local people, Sage’s rod factory is located on Bainbridge Island where they design, develop, and build their rods sold around the world.
“Sage rods, and our entire Far Bank house of brands, are highly visible on a global scale, but really we are a local business with a family feel,” said Kleiner.
Striving to be inclusive of everyone, novice to highly experienced, freshwater trout to saltwater trophy fish, Sage makes rods across a wide variety of price points and sizes. Fly anglers using their rods can catch everything from trout in the Rockies using lightweight fly fishing setups to ocean fishing for tarpon, tuna, or sail fish using much bigger, sturdier equipment.
Under the Far Bank umbrella of companies, you will find Sage rods, reels and equipment, Redington rods, reels, waders and gear, RIO PRODUCTS featuring world-class fly line, leader, tippet and flies, plus Fly Water Travel – a destination fly fishing travel partner.
Best known as a well-established rod manufacturer with a long legacy of building an incredible product, Sage also touts their great company culture. As one of the biggest employers on Bainbridge Island, they are highly connected to their community and to each other. Welcome to the fly fishing community!
EXPLORE THE BRANDS OF FAR BANK farbank.com
BY LYNN CASTLE
Whole Body Dentistry HARBOR HILL DENTISTRY AND AIRWAY CENTER
At Harbor Hill Dentistry and Airway Center in Gig Harbor, their approach to dental care goes beyond traditional dentistry and embraces the philosophy of “treating the cause, not the symptom.” Led by Dr. Keith Gressell, a Temple University School of Dentistry graduate, this approach incorporates an overall health method he acquired while stationed in Europe as a Captain in the US Army.
The office is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and their whole-body approach to treatment delivers quality dental care that focuses on the root cause of a patient’s issues. In addition to traditional general dentistry, Harbor Hill includes cosmetic dentistry, laser dentistry, aesthetic dentistry and myofunctional therapy, which is basically physical therapy for your jaws and tongue.
While whole body dentistry isn’t the norm just yet, it isn’t a fad either. By combining his US training with his experience working in a European environment, Dr. Gressell is always looking to adapt and improve the quality of care he provides, so he can better his patients’ dental health, well-being, and lives.
Following his time in the Army, Dr. Gressell spent time in private practice in Germany and
then in San Antonio, Texas before moving to his wife Jackie’s hometown of Gig Harbor in 2017. Then the Gressells bought the practice in May of 2022, offering comprehensive care for all ages.
“Our ever-evolving treatment philosophy is to maintain a focus on each patient’s overall
health and well-being. My mantra is, and always will be, to treat every patient as a whole, not just a hole in a tooth,” said Dr. Gressell recently.
HARBOR HILL DENTISTRY AND AIRWAY CENTER
harborhilldentistry.com
CRUNCH FITNESS:
Gym’s Focus on Community Wellness
BY LYNN CASTLE
According to Haaken Larsen, General Manager of the Silverdale Crunch Fitness, “Community wellness is really all about creating community in a space where people feel comfortable in that space.” Larsen and his team embrace the “No Judgement” philosophy through positivity, inclusivity, and most importantly, fun.
“We are fitness people making fitness fun. We don’t want it to be a punishment, but something people enjoy,” said Personal Training Manager, Dominique Harris.
Examples are Superhero dress up day or making an American Ninja Warrior course for members to tackle. At Crunch, they work to fuse fitness and entertainment so they can make serious exercise fun by creating work out plans tailored to what their guests would enjoy.
Larsen, an Ellensburg native, moved to Bremerton following his time in the Navy where he was stationed in Japan for four years. “Everyone is here to help, from the front desk to the group fitness team and
personal trainers,” Larsen said. New members receive a personal user’s guide which includes a one-hour session with a personal trainer to help sort through what they want to accomplish and reach their goals faster.
People who want to try out Crunch Fitness are given a free trial so they see for themselves if they feel welcome and supported. “We want to create an open, comfortable space that is very welcoming,” said Harris, a military spouse who recently moved to the area from North Carolina.
Built on a desire to change the narrative about the gym industry as too intimidating, Larsen and Harris are working to make sure no one feels judged at their location. “Comparisons are really the thief of joy, and we want to help everyone around us flourish.”
While Crunch Fitness is a national brand, it feels like a small-town business because of the relationships being built there every day. “People come as new members, but through our wonderful and very communicative staff, they become our friends,” Larsen said.
No judgments means room for everyone, regardless of shape, size, age, race, gender or fitness level.
CRUNCH FITNESS crunch.com
Northwest Winter Safety Tips for Seniors
BY KELLY LENIHAN
During the winter months, slippery sidewalks and cold weather can cause a wide range of injuries and illnesses, especially for seniors. The following tips will help prevent common cold-weather dangers faced by the elderly population.
Avoid slipping on ice. Icy, snowy roads and sidewalks make it easy to slip and fall. These falls often cause major injuries such as hip and wrist fractures, head trauma and major lacerations. Make sure to wear shoes with good traction and nonskid soles, and stay indoors until the roads are clear.
Dress for warmth. Cold temperatures can lead to frostbite and hypothermia, a condition in which the body temperature dips too low. According to the CDC, people over the age of 65 are at greater risk of hypothermia-related death. So limit the time spent outdoors and dress in multiple layers with a good head covering.
Fight wintertime depression.
Because it can be difficult and dangerous to get around, many seniors have less contact with others during cold months. This can breed feelings of loneliness and isolation. To help avoid these issues, family members can check in on seniors as often as possible. A short, daily phone call can also make a big difference. Seniors can arrange a check-in system with neighbors and friends, with each person looking in on one or two others daily.
battery-powered radio in case the power goes out. Stockpile warm blankets. Longer power outages can spoil the food in your refrigerator and freezer so keep a supply of nonperishable foods on hand that can be eaten cold. If the power goes out, wear several layers of clothing, including a hat. Move around a lot to raise your body temperature. Check out this winter weather checklist from the CDC to make sure you have everything you may need: cdc.gov/disasters/winter
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Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Using a fireplace, gas heater or lanterns can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. Ensure your safety by checking the batteries on your carbon monoxide detector and buying an updated one if you need to. The most important tip to keep in mind during the colder months is to ask for help. Arrange rides to the grocery store and doctor’s appointments—many communities have shuttle services specifically for seniors. Don’t be afraid to reach out or help.
Check the car. Driving during the winter can be hazardous for anyone. But it is especially dangerous for older people, who may no longer drive as often or whose reflexes may not be as quick as they once were. Get your car serviced before wintertime hits—or ask a family member to take it to a garage for you.
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Prepare for power outages. Winter storms can lead to power outages. Make sure you have easy access to flashlights and a
ICE (in case of emergency). For seniors who live alone and their long-distance care team: Print out a contact card/in case of emergency card for your senior to give to trusted neighbors, landlords, clergy, and so on to easily locate family members (or power of attorney) should an issue arise.
Wintertime certainly poses challenges for seniors, but with planning and awareness, you will stay healthy and experience the joys of springtime soon enough.
