From Our Blog

Education-Business Partnerships Aid our Economy

This op-ed, co-written by Deidre Peterson, CEO of the Shelton-Mason County Chamber, and Kevin Shutty, Executive Director of Mason EDC, appeared in the January 15, 2026 Shelton-Mason County Journal. As leaders of Shelton and Mason County’s businesses support and development organizations, we rely on strong partnerships to sustain and grow our local economy. Without good partners, our work would be more challenging and less impactful. This is especially true when it comes to our work with the Shelton School District Read more

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Chamber Work That Matters

Each January, we take a moment to reflect—not to start over, but to build on what we’ve learned and accomplished alongside you. If you haven’t had the chance yet, I encourage you to pause and celebrate the good that came out of last year. One place to start: take a look at the impressive slate of finalists who will be recognized at next week’s Gala. Chamber work doesn’t begin fresh with each calendar year. It carries forward, informed by your Read more

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Meet LuWana Hawley: Chamber Ambassador

When LuWana Hawley was invited to join the Chamber’s Ambassador Committee in March 2022, she was both new to the area and to her role as General Manager at Lucky Dog Casino. Having recently relocated from Tumwater to Hoodsport, she was eager to connect with others and establish a sense of belonging. Joining the Ambassador Committee offered the perfect opportunity to immerse herself in the community while learning more about the people and businesses that make Mason County thrive. LuWana Read more

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Holiday Drives Help Neighbors

Our community continues to come together time and time again to help neighbors in need. The holiday season offers a meaningful opportunity to support causes close to your heart. Many area nonprofits are seeking donations to continue their work serving local individuals and families. In addition, several local businesses are hosting giving trees and independent drives for those who wish to contribute items directly. For those able to give, the Chamber has compiled a list of local opportunities to support Read more

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Make the Most of Year-End Giving for Local Impact

As the year draws to a close, many businesses take time to review their budgets and look for meaningful ways to give back while making the most of available tax deductions. Strategic charitable giving can provide financial advantages, but it also creates a lasting impact by supporting the local organizations that strengthen Mason County. For business owners, year-end giving can take many forms. Monetary donations to qualified nonprofits are the most common, but contributions of goods, services, or sponsorships may Read more

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Chamber, Partners Convene Legislators for Annual Legislative Sendoff

The Shelton-Mason County Chamber of Commerce, the North Mason Chamber of Commerce, and the Economic Development Council of Mason County convened nearly 60 business, government, and nonprofit leaders on Monday, December 1, for the annual Legislative Sendoff at Alderbrook Resort & Spa. The county-wide forum provided a focused opportunity for the business community to hear directly from Senator Drew MacEwen and Representatives Dan Griffey and Travis Couture as they prepare for Washington’s 2026 short legislative session. Organizers opened by emphasizing Read more

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Awards Gala Tickets on Sale

Ticket sales opened to all Chamber members on Monday, December 1, 2025 and are reserved on a first come, first served basis. All reservations must be made through the online form below to accurately track reservations. If your reservation is received after the event is sold out, you will be added to a wait list. The Awards Gala will be held on Friday, January 16, 2026 at Little Creek Casino Resort’s Skookum Creek Event Center. The semi-formal event includes an Read more

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Make Shelton Shine: Support Beautification Today

Each year, as the holidays draw near, Shelton begins its familiar transformation into a place filled with light, color, and hometown pride. The Chamber’s Beautification Program is at the heart of that seasonal magic. It brings the sparkle of Christmas to our streets in winter—much in the same way it fills downtown with cheerful flower baskets in summer. These traditions create the welcoming atmosphere that residents treasure and visitors remember, and they rely on the generosity of our community to Read more

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Updates to Washington’s Plastic Bag Ban Coming in 2026

Washington State has adopted several changes to the single-use plastic bag law that will take effect January 1, 2026. These updates, passed under ESHB 1293 during the 2025 session, adjust fee requirements, clarify standards, and extend the transition timeline for retailers and restaurants. Beginning next year, the charge for plastic film carryout bags will increase to 12 cents. Large paper bags will continue to require an 8 cent fee. Small paper bags may still be offered with or without a Read more

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Understanding Federal Payroll Taxes: What Every Business Should Know

Compliance with federal payroll tax rules is essential to running a successful business, yet these rules are often misunderstood, leading to errors and IRS Notices. The level of detail required is significant, from withholding obligations and worker classification to fringe benefit reporting and filing deadlines. Fortunately, a solid understanding of basic payroll tax mechanics provides a strong foundation for compliance and reduces the risk of penalties. Payroll Tax Overview Federal payroll taxes are imposed on wages earned by employees that Read more

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