Wednesday, February 5, 2025 | |
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County Streamlines Permitting Process
with New Tools & Strategies
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Navigating the permitting process can be complicated and overwhelming. That’s why Kitsap County’s Department of Community Development is taking significant steps to make it more efficient, transparent, and user-friendly.
“In Kitsap, we are evaluating our work through a lens of continuous process improvement,” said Christine Rolfes, Chair of the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners. “We are committed to fulfilling our stewardship responsibilities to the people, communities, lands, and waterways of our community in the most effective and forward-thinking way possible.”
In 2023, the department conducted a community survey to gather feedback on the permitting process. Later that year, a consultant was hired to help identify efficiencies, strategies, and enhancements to better support constituents. A series of listening sessions with staff, industry professionals, and community members revealed several challenges. In response, the Permit Review Efficiency Plan (PREP) was developed to address concerns such as:
- A disconnect regarding application requirements.
- Many permits submitted with missing information and errors.
- A fragmented review process by Community Development staff.
- Limited staff accessibility.
- A lack of transparency about projects underway.
Recognizing that nearly all permitting interactions now occur online, the department began developing and refining new tools to make the process easier, faster, and more transparent for everyone.
Starting this year, customers will notice the following changes:
Better Tools and Information
- A new mapping tool that identifies conditions on parcels that might affect development.
- Comprehensive intake and review checklists to help customers ensure applications are complete upon submittal.
Clearer Application Process
- Increased and improved communication to provide the information needed for complete, correct applications.
- Clear guidelines to ensure applications are ready for review from the start.
Faster Reviews
For certain permits, the department now offers:
- Two six-week review periods.
- Clearer timelines and expectations.
- Intake screenings to identify issues early.
- More opportunities to resolve project concerns with staff.
Transparent and Accessible Public Information
- A Project Navigator tool highlighting high-interest community projects that require public notices.
- A Permit Explorer map allowing the public to view building and land-use activity permits, such as timber harvest activity, with extensive search and data capabilities.
The department is also working to comply with Senate Bill 5290, which requires local governments to establish clear timelines for processing and issuing permit decisions. These timelines range from 65 to 170 days, depending on the type of application.
“By redesigning our processes and adding new digital tools, we expect to significantly reduce the time it takes to get from application to approval,” said David Lynam, Interim Assistant Director. “This is about working smarter to serve our community better.”
For more information about the Permit Review Efficiency Plan or other initiatives, please contact the Department of Community Development at 360.337.5777 or email help@kitsap1.com.
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February Membership Luncheon
Wednesday, February 26, 2025
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Join us for our annual State of Kitsap luncheon, with special guest speakers, Bremerton Mayor Greg Wheeler and Kitsap County Commissioner Katie Walters. Hear from our local elected leaders about accomplishments from this last year, and what 2025 has in store for both Bremerton and Kitsap County. You won't want to miss this informative luncheon!
This month's luncheon will be held at the Kitsap Conference Center. Paid parking is available on the GREEN (2nd level) underneath the Conference Center.
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Save-the-Date: Military Appreciation Day
Saturday, March 15, 2025
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Contact Tiffany to sign up now or to secure your sponsorship! | |
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Looking for a Travel Escape in 2025?
Travel Abroad with the Chamber
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Contact Irene to learn more! | |
Insurance Needs for You & Your Employees: Business Health Trust Has You Covered | |
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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 Irene 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 Members - Welcome to the Chamber! | |
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New & Renewing Members for January
Thank you for your continued investment & support!
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Growth
Randy's Heating (2025)
Main Street
Kitsap Transit (2014)
Roxy Theatre (2018)
The Doctors Clinic (2005)
Business
Adison Richards, Washington State Representative - 26th District (2025)
Ahoy Kitsap Playland (2017)
Dan Griffey, Washington House of Representatives - 35th District (2015)
Deborah Krishnadasan, Washington State Senator - 26th District (2025)
Domino's Pizza (1996)
Drew Hansen Washington State Senator - 23rd District (2007)
Encore Communities (1992)
Filter Girls (2017)
Force 10 Property Group LLC (2025)
Greg Nance, Washington House of Representatives - 23rd District (2024)
Hanley Construction (2012)
Kitsap Chico Towing (2020)
Kitsap Transit (2014)
Leah Persinger, Realtor ® (2024)
Michelle Caldier, Washington State Representative - 26th District (2015)
Milestone Marketing (2024)
Miss Poulsbo Miss Kitsap Miss Silverdale Scholarship Organization (2020)
Olympic Presort (1997)
Oran Root, Kitsap County Commissioner - District 2 (2005)
Sanchez, Mitchell, Eastman, & Cure, PSC (2020)
Scoopology Poop Removal (2025)
SERVPRO of Kitsap County (2011)
Silverdale Wellness Center (1991)
Skookum (1999)
Suitcases on Standby Travel (2021)
T-Mobile, USA (2025)
Travis Couture, Washington House of Representatives - 35th District (2023)
Whitlock & Forster, LLC (1991)
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Share Your Business News in
Kitsap Business Magazine
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Spread Supplies: Cupid's Chocolate Crawl
Thursday, February 13, 2025, 5:00 pm
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White Barn: Get Valentine & "I Do" Ready | |
Valentine's Special from Honeybee Horticulture | |
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A Haven for Book Lovers and Community Connection
Nestled in the heart of Historic Downtown Poulsbo, Away With Words Bookshop is more than just a place to buy books—it's a sanctuary for readers, writers, and dreamers alike. With a thoughtfully curated selection of titles, a welcoming atmosphere, and a deep commitment to fostering literary love in the community, this independent bookshop has become a cherished destination for bibliophiles of all ages.
The journey of Away With Words Bookshop began with a simple yet profound love for books and the connections they create. Established with the goal of offering a diverse and inclusive selection, this independent bookstore is dedicated to ensuring that every reader can find a story that speaks to them. Whether it’s a timeless classic, an exciting new release, or a hidden gem from an indie author, the shop prides itself on providing a collection that caters to all interests and backgrounds.
Beyond selling books, Away With Words Bookshop is a space where literature thrives in a warm, welcoming environment. From book signings to reading groups, the shop actively fosters a community of readers who share their passion for storytelling and meaningful discussions.
Relatively new members of the Greater Kitsap Chamber since January of 2024, owners Bittina and Kevin Sheen have jumped into Chamber activity showing their love for local businesses and nonprofits alike. Stay tuned as we celebrate this hidden gem in Poulsbo all month!
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Retailers May Face New Challenges
with Proposed Data Privacy Bill
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Courtesy of the Washington Retail Association
Washington State is considering HB 1671, a data privacy bill introduced by Rep. Shelley Kloba (D-1), that could significantly impact the retail industry. The legislation proposes sweeping changes to how businesses collect, process, and manage consumer information.
While intended to enhance consumer privacy, the bill’s broad scope and complex requirements pose substantial challenges for retailers statewide. Key concerns include:
Broad Definition of Consumer Health Data:
The bill broadly defines “consumer health data”, potentially covering everyday purchases like vitamins, fitness products, and over-the-counter medications. This ambiguity forces retailers to treat routine transactions as sensitive data, increasing compliance complexity.
Strict Consent Requirements:
Retailers would need to obtain explicit, separate consumer consent for data collection and sharing. This could disrupt seamless shopping experiences, frustrating customers and leading to abandoned transactions.
Conflicts with Existing Regulations:
Retailers already comply with federal and state data laws. HB 1671’s additional requirements could create a patchwork of conflicting state-by-state regulations, making compliance more difficult and costly.
The bill’s sweeping requirements fail to account for the realities of retail operations and could negatively impact services consumers rely on, such as loyalty programs and personalized shopping experiences. Additionally, it exposes retailers to steep penalties and civil litigation, even for inadvertent compliance failures.
WR is closely monitoring this bill and working with the member workgroup dedicated to Data Privacy to advocate on behalf of retailers across the state.
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Fix Our Ferries Townhalls
Community meetings across Kitsap
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Representative Greg Nance of the 23rd Legislative District will again be hosting townhalls across Kitsap to talk about fixes for our Washington State ferry system. Save the date to bring your questions, hear complaints and suggestions, and find out what our state legislators have planned moving forward to fix our ferries.
SAVE THE DATE
1pm Saturday, February 8 — Poulsbo City Hall
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Business & Professional Development Committee | |
Member Education & Training Resources | |
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SCORE: Becoming a Pitch Pro
February 11, 2025, 1:00 pm
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Calling all entrepreneurs! Are you ready to take your business to the next level? Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to unlock the secrets of securing funding and delivering a winning pitch! Whether you're competing in the Small Business Pitch Contest or looking to grow your business, this hands-on workshop is designed for you. Everyone’s invited—especially those participating in the SCORE Washington District Small Business Pitch Contest.
Join us for a dynamic session where you'll sharpen your pitching skills and learn how to navigate the complex world of funding, from traditional bank loans to investor backing. Discover how to craft the perfect pitch that grabs the attention of lenders and investors alike. Plus, gain valuable insights from seasoned professionals on how to secure the right kind of funding tailored to your needs.
Best of all, this high-value workshop is completely FREE, brought to you by SCORE Washington District. Don’t miss out on expert advice from top-tier business mentors—this is your chance to pitch like a pro and get your business funded!
Workshop Fee: FREE
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Summit Business Workshop
Friday, February 21, 2025, 9:30 am
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Unlock the Secret to GROWTH
an Executive Leadership Masterclass
Wednesday, March 5, 2025, 8:00 am
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Business News & Resources | |
New Tariffs Threaten Jobs, Economy | |
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Courtesy of the Association of Washington Business
New trade war: President Donald Trump signed an order on Saturday to impose tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico and China, with the countries quickly announcing retaliatory tariffs on American-made goods.
- Both Mexico and Canada are facing a 25% tariff on U.S. imports; Canadian energy imports, including electricity and natural gas, would be taxed at 10%. Goods from China would face a 10% charge.
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On Monday, the U.S. reached agreements with Mexico and Canada to delay tariffs for 30 days, as the countries pledged to take additional steps to curb drug smuggling and illegal immigration. The tariffs on China were still set to go into effect yesterday.
Reactions: Organizations representing employers, manufacturers and exporters warned that the new tariffs could cost jobs and drive up prices.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce: “The imposition of tariffs under the (International Emergency Economic Powers Act) is unprecedented… and will only raise prices for American families and upend supply chains.”
The National Association of Manufacturers: “Ultimately, manufacturers will bear the brunt of these tariffs, undermining our ability to sell our products at a competitive price and putting American jobs at risk.”
The Washington Council of International Trade: “Likely retaliation targets include iconic Northwest goods like apples, cherries, wine, coffee, dairy, seafood, and wood products.”
Trade in Washington: 40% of Washington state jobs are tied to international trade, making it one of the most trade-driven states in the nation.
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AWB led recent trade missions to Canada and Mexico to strengthen ties with both countries. In 2023, Washington exported $9.6 billion in goods to Canada and $3.5 billion to Mexico.
Washington business perspective: In AWB’s winter employer survey, 54% of manufacturers and agricultural producers said they were concerned that tariffs or retaliatory tariffs could negatively impact their business.
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What To Do if ICE Raids Your Business | |
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Courtesy of the Washington Hospitality Association
According to NBC News, as of Jan. 27, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has arrested more than 2,000 people. All of ICE’s 25 field offices heard from senior leadership that they must meet quotas of between 1,200 and 1,500 arrests a day.
If your establishment experiences a raid, what should you do? We’ve collected these resources for you and your employees. If you need an attorney, you should call yours right away. If your attorney doesn’t specialize in immigration law, they probably know one to whom they can refer you.
The National Restaurant Association says operators should take the following steps to be ready to answer immigration enforcement questions:
- Understand the risks of immigration violations
- Take steps to minimize the likelihood of a raid
- Know how to respond if ICE initiates an audit
- Know what to do if there is an ICE raid
- Prepare for workforce disruptions and absences
For further details visit the WA Hospitality website to learn the specifics.
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New KEDA Publication:
Kitsap County Economic Profile 2024
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Quick and interesting reads for employers, employees,
local leaders, and everyone in between!
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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. | |
1st Quarter Webinars for Small Businesses
L&I Essentials for Business webinars cover:
- Essentials about workers' compensation, quarterly reporting, what to do if your employee is injured, workplace safety and health requirements, wage and hour laws, and contractor registration rules;
- How to access a range of L&I resources and services designed to help your business save time and money; and
- Various ways L&I partners with you to keep your workforce safe and healthy.
Upcoming monthly 80-minute L&I Essentials for Business Webinars:
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Nonprofit News & Resources | |
Nonprofit Fundamentals Series | |
New Shelter Plans Due Soon | |
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Published in the Kitsap Sun, Feb. 3, 2025
Photo: Kai Uyehara
The location for an anticipated hybrid homeless shelter could become public within the next two weeks, according to leaders of the Kitsap County Affordable Housing Consortium – the collective of social service organizations tasked with opening the shelter – who say the planned facility will reshape the outlook of homelessness in Bremerton.
For now, the city remains without a dedicated emergency homeless shelter, despite attempts at launching a full-time location following the growth of encampments in 2023. The Salvation Army on Sixth Street operates an overnight congregate shelter, but the building isn’t meant to function full time. The space must be converted every morning to serve multiple uses, and when the portable mats are taken down the tenants must leave for the day.
Read the full story here
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Popular Chain Heading to Silverdale | |
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Published in the Kitsap Sun, Feb. 4, 2025
Photo: Raising Cane's and Rhea Ashlynn Photography
Raising Cane’s is planning a Silverdale location as it expands its fried chicken empire into Washington. Though no details have been revealed about a potential opening date or location, other developers have pursued opening a Raising Cane’s near the Kitsap Mall in Silverdale in recent years.
The fried chicken restaurant chain, known nationwide for its chicken fingers, crinkle-cut fries and Cane’s sauce, confirmed to the Kitsap Sun this week that a Raising Cane’s in Silverdale is among four planned restaurants coming to Western Washington.
Read the article here
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New Titleholders Crowned for PKS | |
Congratulations to the new titleholders for the Miss Poulsbo, Miss Kitsap, Miss Silverdale Scholarship Organization: (pictured from left) Miss Poulsbo, Elliana Roberson, Miss Kitsap, Lora Hawley, and Miss Silverdale, Khi Tall Bull. | |
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Silverdale GreenDrinks @ BC Fitness
Wednesday, February 5, 2025, 5:24 pm
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Kitsap Regional Library Community Survey | |
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Bremerton GreenDrinks @ Fairfield Inn
Thursday, February 13, 2025, 5:00 pm
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WorkSource Seeking Input from Job Seekers | |
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My Furry Valentine
Now thru February 14, 2025
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Kitsap County Substance Abuse
Prevention & Youth Services Event
Wednesday, February 26, 2025, 2:00 pm
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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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Can I still get COVID-19 tests?
You can order free, at-home COVID-19 tests from CovidTests.gov
Tests are available from many pharmacies and retailers. Healthcare providers can provide testing. If you test positive for COVID-19, follow CDC guidance.
If you need tests for your organization, contact Kitsap Public Health at ready@kitsappublichealth.org or 360-728-2235.
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Free immunization clinics for children
Kitsap Public Health is offering free immunization clinics for children 18 and younger on Jan. 22 and Jan. 23 in Bremerton. Our clinic provides flu shots, COVID-19 vaccines, and routine childhood immunizations.
Learn more and book an appointment at kitsappublichealth.org/clinic.
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Admiral Theatre: Black Opry Review
Friday, February 7, 2025, 7:30 pm
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Black Opry is a home for Black artists and Black fans of country, blues, folk, and Americana music. Country music has been made by and loved by Black people since it’s conception. For just as long, we have been overlooked and disregarded in the genre by fans and executives. Black Opry wants to change that. We invite you to discover, support and enjoy Black artists with us. One of the most valuable aspects of country music is its versatility and diversity in sound. Country, blues, folk, and Americana music often overlap or weave together- our artists explore all of those sounds and intersections. Offered in two formats, writers rounds and festival sets, the Black Opry Revue showcases the diversity in sound and stories that Black artists offer to these genres. | |
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Amy Grant
Wednesday, February 12, 2025, 7:30 pm
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Conventional wisdom has it that Amy Grant put Contemporary Christian Music on the map, becoming the first CCM artist to have a platinum record, the first to hit No. 1 on the Pop charts, and the first to perform at the GRAMMY Awards. Since then, Grant has been strumming her way through a thirty-plus year adventure as a singer-songwriter, author, television host, and speaker.
Early on, Grant’s iconic voice became instantly recognizable in both the Christian and pop worlds. Over the years, she has sold more than 30 million albums world-wide, including three multi-platinum, six platinum, and four gold. Her chart performance has also been consistent throughout her career, boasting six No. 1 hits, 10 "Top 40" Pop singles, 17 “Top 40” Adult Contemporary tracks and multiple Contemporary Christian chart-toppers. In recognition of such success, Grant has received 6 GRAMMY Awards and 26 Dove Awards, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and a star on the Music City Walk of Fame. Additionally, she was most recently inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in Nashville.
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Clearwater Casino Presents:
New Sensation - INXS Tribute
Friday, February 14, 2025, 8:30 pm
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Cherry Cherry - Neil Diamond Tribute
Saturday, February 15, 2025, 8:30 pm
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Bainbridge Symphony Orchestra:
"Perfectly Romantic"
February 14-16, 2025
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Celebrate love with “Perfectly Romantic” featuring Mozart’s lively Overture to The Marriage of Figaro, Prokofiev’s dramatic Suite No. 2 from Romeo & Juliet, and Brahms’ passionate Piano Concerto No. 2 in B-flat major with pianist Alex Fang. Join us for a night of timeless romance. | |
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BCT Presents: Agatha Christie's Spider's Web
February 7 - March 2, 2025
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Spider's Web by Agatha Christie
In Agatha Christie’s Spider’s Web, the charming and imaginative Clarissa Hailsham-Brown finds herself in a real-life mystery when a dead body turns up in her drawing room. As the wife of a diplomat, she’s used to spinning tales of adventure, but this time, she must navigate the chaos of a murder investigation while trying to keep her household in order. With the help of her quirky guests and the arrival of the wry Inspector Lord, hilarity ensues as they attempt to dispose of the body before her husband returns with an important politician. This delightful comedy-thriller is filled with suspense, hidden doorways, secret drawers, and Christie’s signature blend of tension and humor.
Content Advisory: Themes of murder, mystery, and deception, all presented in a comedic and light-hearted manner; some mature themes related to crime and deception, but they are handled with Christie’s characteristic wit and charm; there is no graphic violence, though the plot revolves around a murder and the comedic attempts to hide the body; there are mentions of drug addicts, but these are not central to the plot and are handled in a non-explicit manner.
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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 | 4th & Pacific Downtown Bremerton
Silverdale Office (360) 692-6800 | Kitsap Mall next to Macy's
PO Box 1218 Silverdale WA 98383
If you need assistance, please contact us directly.
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