From Our Blog

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

ago

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

ago

Chamber, EDC to Host Candidate Forum October 9

As ballots arrive in mailboxes, the business community is convening a candidate forum for contested local races directly responsible for shaping policy. The event takes place at 6:00p on Thursday, October 9 at Olympic Middle School and will also be streamed live on Mason WebTV, powered by HCC. Candidates in the following races (listed in ballot order) have been invited to participate: Shelton City Council Position 3 (Kenneth Mobley & Sharon Schirman), City Council Position 4 (Holly Cahoon & Eric Read more

ago

Businesses Invited to Host 20-Hour Student Internships

The Shelton School District’s Internship Program is returning this year, and local businesses are invited to take part. In its first year, the program connected Shelton High School students with more than 1,200 hours of hands-on career experience. This was possible thanks to support from businesses that opened their doors and gave students opportunities to explore career pathways right here in Mason County. Employers also benefited by meeting and mentoring the next generation of talent. The program is expanding this Read more

ago

Peninsula Credit Union Receives National “Juntos Avanzamos” Designation for Commitment to Financial Inclusion

Peninsula Credit Union has been awarded the national designation “Juntos Avanzamos”(“Together We Advance”), recognizing its commitment to serving and empowering Hispanic andimmigrant communities through inclusive, affordable financial services. It marks a significantachievement this year as the company celebrates its 90th anniversary. On Tuesday, September 17, 2025, Peninsula Credit Union will host a special event at its Shelton branch,bringing together community partners, local leaders, and members to celebrate the designation, themilestone anniversary, and will also ring in Hispanic Heritage Month. The Read more

ago

Eat Local Month: Nourishing Business, Community, and Connection

September marks Washington State’s official “Eat Local Month.” For many communities across the state, this means celebrating farms and harvest. In Mason County, our story is a little different. Here, “local” means world-renowned shellfish farms, family-run eateries, small-scale producers, and a thriving community farmers market. Together, these businesses form a vibrant food system that nourishes residents, attracts visitors, and sustains jobs. When you think of Mason County, chances are seafood comes to mind. Our shellfish growers are among the most Read more

ago

Peninsula Credit Union to Host Open House ¡Unidos! Neighbors, Now and Always

Join the Shelton-Mason County Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday, September 17 as we celebrate Peninsula Credit Union’s Open House and Juntos Avanzamos designation. This free community event features live music, local food trucks, family activities including dancing horses, face painting, and more. Live translation will be available. As we kick off Hispanic Heritage Month, the Juntos Avanzamos signing ceremony will mark Peninsula Credit Union’s national designation, recognizing its commitment to serving and empowering Hispanic communities. Reservations Requested About Peninsula Credit Read more

ago

Swinging In the Rain: 15th Annual Chamber Golf Tournament

Golfers and local businesses came together for a fantastic day on the course at the 15th Annual Chamber Golf Tournament, held Friday, August 15, 2025 at Alderbrook Golf & Yacht Club. Even with the steady rainfall, enthusiasm remained high and the competition was lively. Players came prepared with rain gear and smiles, embracing the weather as part of the challenge and keeping spirits light throughout the day. The Alderbrook course, with its sweeping views of Hood Canal and well-kept greens, Read more

ago

September Business After Hours

Bradley Air Company will host Business After Hours on September 10 at its spacious shop facility on Johns Prairie Rd. Drop in from 5:30-7:00p to socialize and connect with fellow Chamber members, local business owners, organizational leaders, elected officials, and friends. RSVP below. Bradley Air Company is a trusted leader in heating, cooling, ventilation, and refrigeration across Mason County and beyond. Its skilled technicians bring more than 40 years of combined experience, offering expertise in high-efficiency furnaces, air conditioning, ductless Read more

ago

Bear Gulch Fire – Weekly Update (8/6/25)

The Bear Gulch Fire continues to burn in steep terrain near Lake Cushman and the Staircase Area of Olympic National Park. As of August 6, the fire is estimated at 5,136 acres with 3% containment. While weather has moderated fire behavior, firefighters remain focused on protecting structures and natural resources throughout the area. The following closures are currently in effect: Road Closures: Trail, Campground, and Recreation Site Closures (Olympic National Forest & Olympic National Park): Lake Cushman is also closed Read more

ago