From Our Blog

October Brings New Rules, Big Conversation

October has arrived, and with it comes a mix of policy shifts, civic opportunities, and challenges that will shape our local economy in the weeks ahead. From new state tax rules to local elections, regional workforce discussions, and the possibility of a federal government shutdown, this month is one where staying informed matters. As always, the Chamber is here as a catalyst for business growth, a convener of leaders and influencers, and a champion for our strong community. On October Read more

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Mason County 911 Launches “Eva” to Help with Non-Emergency Calls

Mason County 911 is taking another step to keep emergency lines open and help our community get the right help faster. Starting this fall, non-emergency calls will be answered by “Eva,” a virtual assistant.Our 911 center handles about 95,000 calls every year, and more than half of those are not emergencies. These are calls about things like animal complaints, abandoned vehicles, or general “411” type questions that don’t require police, fire, or medics right away. While important, these calls can Read more

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Island Enterprises Invests in New Hotel, Local Economy

The Chamber is a catalyst for business growth, connecting members with timely conversations that impact our economy and community. Our September Luncheon was designed to give attendees an inside look at how local tribal enterprises are driving change and opportunity in Mason County. We were thrilled to host Island Enterprises, Inc. (IEI), where CEO David Burnett and newly appointed COO Jennifer Hines shared insights into the Squaxin Island Tribe’s diverse economic ventures and the significant role they play in fostering Read more

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Taylor Shellfish: Local Smokehouse Brings Flavor Home

Taylor Shellfish Farms is charting a new course with the addition of a smokehouse and cannery at its Shelton headquarters. This project blends more than 130 years of aquaculture heritage with a modern “tide to table” approach. It also creates fresh opportunities to enjoy locally raised shellfish while keeping more of the value in Mason County. The company began in the 1890s when the Taylor family first farmed Olympia oysters on Puget Sound. From those beginnings, Taylor Shellfish has grown Read more

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Powers Music & Recording: Affordable Instruments, Full-Service Rentals, & Pro Studio

As band programs begin for the new school year, many students are picking up an instrument for the first time. Powers Music & Recording, which opened in August 2024, has quickly become a hub where musicians of all ages can find the tools, support, and inspiration to grow. What started with fewer than twenty guitars has grown into a full-service music store offering guitars, band and orchestral instruments, keyboards, drums, merchandise, and a professional recording studio. In addition to its Read more

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Mason Health Invests in Future with Campus Mason Plan

Mason Health is in the midst of a transformation that will shape how health care is delivered in Mason County for decades to come. Guided by its Campus Master Plan, the hospital district has launched a series of construction projects that expand services, enhance patient safety, and improve access to care. Work began this spring and will continue in phases through 2026, with one of the most anticipated developments being the arrival of a high-field open MRI by the end Read more

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OysterFest Brings Flavor, Fun, & Lasting Impact

For locals, OysterFest is a treasured tradition. For visitors, it offers a delicious dive into the Pacific Northwest’s legendary seafood scene. The 44th annual OysterFest, hosted by the Shelton Skookum Rotary Club, takes place Saturday and Sunday, October 4–5, 2025, from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm on Saturday and 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on Sunday. The weekend begins on Friday, October 3, with OysterFunk, a lively 21+ beer garden hosted by the Shelton Rotary Club from 6:00 to 10:00 Read more

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Your Gifts Can Help Make Shelton Beautiful

The flower baskets that grace our streets for the summer season have hung proudly throughout the summer season . This project, led by the Chamber, could not have been possible without the help, support, and organizational skills from members of the community. Our thanks go to Hood Canal Communications and City of Shelton who were instrumental in the planning and hanging the flower baskets. The Chamber and its partners collaborate to beautify our community in the summer with a flowery, Read more

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The Bear Gulch Fire & Hoodsport: Strength Amidst Uncertainty

The Bear Gulch Fire, which started July 6 on the north side of Lake Cushman, has burned more than 10,000 acres in Olympic National Forest. Human-caused and still under investigation, the fire has been slow to contain. As of early September, just nine percent was under control, with 147 personnel still assigned to the incident. While no structures have been lost, the fire has shaped both the landscape and the economy of Mason County for more than two months. Cooler Read more

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The Future of Work Summit Returns on Wednesday, October 8

Get ready to rethink, refresh, and revolutionize your approach to the workplace at the region’s premier workforce summit. On Wednesday, October 8, business owners, executives, HR professionals, and community leaders are invited to gather at Saint Martin’s University for the fourth annual Future of Work event. Running from 8:30 am to 1:30 pm, this summit brings together voices from five counties to explore how collaboration between businesses, schools, and career seekers can strengthen tomorrow’s workforce. This year’s keynote speaker is Read more

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