From the Desk of the CEO – June 2026

As summer begins in Mason County, the Chamber’s focus shifts from planning and preparation to helping businesses make the most of the opportunities ahead. Last week’s Forest Festival marked the unofficial start of one of the busiest seasons of the year, bringing increased activity to our communities and serving as a reminder of the important role events, recreation, tourism, and community gatherings play in our local economy.

The months ahead are filled with opportunities for businesses to connect with customers, showcase their products and services, and benefit from the increased activity that summer brings. One of the most visible examples is the Chamber’s Expo & Bite of Mason County on July 17. As the largest business showcase in Mason County, the Expo provides a unique opportunity for businesses, nonprofits, and organizations to engage directly with residents and visitors while highlighting the products, services, and experiences that strengthen our community. You’ll find additional information and Expo preparation resources later in this newsletter.

This month, FIFA Club World Cup matches and related activities are bringing international attention and increased visitor traffic to Washington State. While much of the activity is centered in the Puget Sound region, nearby Fan Zones and related events in Olympia and Bremerton are expected to draw additional visitors throughout the area. For Mason County businesses, the question is not whether opportunities exist, but how we can position ourselves to take advantage of them.

Both Chambers and the EDC have shared FIFA business readiness resources and are actively encouraging businesses to take part. Experience from other major events shows that businesses that prepare early, market intentionally, and work collaboratively are best positioned to benefit from increased visitation and consumer spending. Whether through special promotions, extended hours, partnerships, or targeted marketing, businesses have an opportunity to introduce new customers to everything Mason County has to offer.

Supporting those efforts is part of the Chamber’s broader work in tourism and visitor services. This summer, we are expanding visitor services in Hoodsport and continuing to connect travelers with businesses, recreation opportunities, attractions, and communities throughout Mason County. We also continue to work closely with partners to provide accurate information regarding recreation access, including ongoing impacts associated with the Bear Gulch Fire closure area. While some areas remain inaccessible, there are still abundant opportunities throughout the county for visitors to enjoy outdoor recreation, local events, waterfront experiences, dining, shopping, and overnight stays.

June also includes National Get Outdoors Day, an appropriate reminder that our natural resources remain among Mason County’s greatest assets. Outdoor recreation supports local businesses, attracts visitors from throughout the region, and contributes significantly to the quality of life that helps make Mason County an attractive place to invest, operate a business, and raise a family.

Creating welcoming communities requires ongoing partnership and investment. The Chamber’s Beautification Program is one example. The hanging flower baskets that line downtown Shelton each summer are made possible through the support of businesses, organizations, volunteers, and community partners who understand that first impressions matter. These efforts contribute to community pride while helping create an inviting environment for customers, visitors, and residents alike. My sincere thanks go to everyone who helps make this program possible–especially Hood Canal Communications & City of Shelton.

Partnership continues to be a hallmark of the Chamber’s work. This month, we look forward to joining our neighbors at the North Mason Chamber of Commerce for a joint Business After Hours. Opportunities like these strengthen relationships across Mason County and reinforce the value of working together to support economic vitality throughout our region.

This month also marks a personal milestone for me as I celebrate 15 years with the Chamber. During that time, I have had the privilege of working alongside dedicated board members, volunteers, community leaders, and business owners who care deeply about Mason County’s future. While the Chamber has evolved over the years, our purpose remains unchanged: to encourage and maintain a vibrant business community, promote tourism, and facilitate economic development. We serve as a catalyst for business growth, a convener of leaders and influencers, and a champion for a strong community. It has been an honor to contribute to that work, and I remain optimistic about the opportunities ahead for our members and our communities.

Summer calendars are already filling with grand openings, ribbon cuttings, festivals, markets, concerts, and community celebrations. I encourage you to take advantage of these opportunities to support local businesses, build connections, and engage with the organizations that help make Mason County a strong and vibrant community.

Thank you for your continued partnership with the Chamber. We look forward to seeing many of you throughout the summer season and working together to make the most of the opportunities ahead.