Kitsap Business

07/31/2025

It’s on the way! The August edition of Kitsap Business has been mailed and should start landing in mailboxes over the next few days.

While you’re waiting, you can explore all of this month’s stories online right now — and read Publisher Terry Ward’s ForWARD Thinking column previewing the issue:

Purpose in Every Pour, Passion in Every Page
This month, we spotlight the makers, movers, and mission-driven entrepreneurs shaping Kitsap’s future — from small-batch coffee roasters and bold family salsa recipes to innovative marine tech and bookkeeping built on empathy. These stories remind us that the best businesses aren’t just profitable… they’re personal.

Read the column and this month’s stories here: https://kitsapbusiness.com/forward-thinking-5/

07/30/2025

ICYMI from our July issue: Chill Together, Heal Together
Fire + Floe Sparks New Kind of Gathering Space

On Bainbridge Island, Fire+Floe is redefining what it means to gather, unwind, and reconnect—with nature, yourself, and others.

Blending Scandinavian-inspired sauna culture with Puget Sound cold plunges, founder Mikal Foushee has created a space where contrast therapy becomes community therapy. It’s a place to slow down, reset, and be present—especially in the darker, colder months when connection is needed most.

Whether you're plunging for wellness, clarity, or camaraderie, this mobile sauna retreat is more than a trend—it’s a movement.

Read the full story: https://kitsapbusiness.com/chill-together-heal-together/

📸 COURTESY OF FIRE + FLOE

07/30/2025

ICYMI from our July issue: More Than Movies

The Roxy Brings Arts, Culture, and Conversation to Quincy Square

The Historic Roxy Theatre in Bremerton is doing more than showing movies—it’s building a creative community.

The Roxy blends vintage charm with modern tech and a mission to entertain, inspire, and connect. From Star Wars nights to jazz shows, local film festivals, and themed events, the Roxy is at the heart of Quincy Square’s arts and culture revival.

It’s not just a theater—it’s where stories spark conversations and strangers leave as neighbors.

Read the full story here: https://kitsapbusiness.com/more-than-movies/

📸LEAH THOMPSON/SCANDIA STUDIO

07/29/2025

“You’re not going to put me in a home,” they say—but what if that home is vibrant, social, and supportive?

In our July issue, Jessica Hull of Bay Pointe by Cogir takes on the outdated stigma of senior living. Her column explores how modern Assisted Living communities focus on independence, comfort, and connection—not confinement.

From maintenance-free living to 24/7 support and personalized care, today’s options offer far more than people expect—and choosing early can make all the difference.

Read the full column and rethink what aging with dignity really looks like: https://kitsapbusiness.com/breaking-the-stigma-of-the-nursing-home-and-assisted-living/

07/29/2025

ICYMI from our July issue: Leading with Heart

Honeybee Horticulture’s Journey from Side Hustle to Visionary Venture

What started as a cousin’s wedding favor has blossomed into a heartfelt Kitsap business.

Mariah Mendez founded honeybee_horticulture to bring beauty, meaning, and connection to every event. From custom floral designs and creative charcuterie carts to deeply personal wedding planning, her business leads with heart—literally.
Whether it’s a bouquet with a family heirloom or a grazing table that sparks conversation, Mendez is redefining what it means to plan with purpose.

Read the full story here: https://kitsapbusiness.com/leading-with-heart/

📸 COURTESY OF HONEYBEE HORTICULTURE

07/28/2025

Retirement isn’t an age—it’s a choice.

In our July issue of Kitsap Business, Kevin Campbell of Peaks Financial breaks down what financial independence really means—and it’s not just about hitting 65.

From smart tax strategies to sustainable income planning and resilient investment approaches, Kevin shows how you can retire on your terms—maybe even sooner than you think.

Want to live life after work the way you choose, not the way the IRS decides? Start with this column: https://kitsapbusiness.com/financial-independence-more-than-just-retirement/

07/28/2025

In this Kitsap Matters podcast episode, Peaks Financial’s Kevin Campbell chats with our own Terry Ward, CEO of Ward Media, about the launch of Kitsap Business Magazine, the importance of local journalism, and why storytelling matters for our region’s business community.

📢 New Episode Alert! | Kitsap Matters – Episode 27 🎙️
In this episode, Kevin had the chance to sit down with Terry Ward, CEO and co-founder of Ward Media and the visionary behind the brand-new Kitsap Business Magazine.
We talked about the power of local journalism, the stories that aren't being told, and how Terry is working to elevate Kitsap’s business community through meaningful storytelling and community connection. If you’re an entrepreneur, a business leader, or just someone who loves Kitsap, this one’s for you!
🎧 Listen to Episode 27 now: https://www.peaksfinancial.com/kitsap-matters-episode-27-terry-ward

07/28/2025

ICYMI from our July issue: More Than Music
Bremerton Symphony’s 80-Year Plus Legacy of Learning and Leadership

For over 80 years, the Bremerton WestSound Symphony has done more than make music—it’s shaped the region’s cultural and educational landscape.

Founded during WWII, the Symphony continues to inspire under Music Director Alan Futterman. From fourth-grade OrKIDstra concerts to professional-level performances by volunteer musicians, the Symphony is a community-driven force for learning, leadership, and connection.

It’s a hidden gem that deserves the spotlight—because in Kitsap, symphonic music isn’t just background, it’s a legacy.

Read the full story here: https://kitsapbusiness.com/more-than-music/

📸 COURTESY OF BREMERTON WESTSOUND SYMPHONY

07/28/2025

Is your business still stuck in "break-fix" IT mode?

In our July issue of Kitsap Business, Jon Hoehne of CMIT Solutions breaks down why more companies are turning to Managed Service Providers (MSPs) to take control of their technology—before it takes control of them.

From cybersecurity and data backups to proactive maintenance and strategic IT planning, MSPs offer expert support that grows with your business.
If tech issues are slowing you down, it might be time to rethink your IT strategy.

Read the full column here: https://kitsapbusiness.com/beyond-break-fix/

07/27/2025

ICYMI from our April issue: Spiva Cooking Brings Bold Global Flavors to Kitsap

When the pandemic sidelined his career as a cruise industry chef, Sam Spiva turned to his spice rack—and never looked back.

Spiva Cooking, based in Bremerton, is now a thriving small business offering 35 handcrafted spice blends and teas inspired by bold global flavors and fresh ingredients. Sam and his wife Heather grind everything in small batches, with zero fillers or preservatives. From barbecue rubs to herbal teas, they're helping home cooks and chefs bring restaurant-quality taste to the table—while also building partnerships across Kitsap’s business and wellness communities.

Read the full story here: https://kitsapbusiness.com/spiva-cooking-brings-bold-global-flavors-to-kitsap/

📸 Leah Thompson/Scandia Studio

07/26/2025

Marketing isn’t a sprint—it’s strength training.

In our July issue of Kitsap Business, Amy Yaley of Ward Media shares why marketing should be treated like a muscle, not a one-time push. Just like the gym, results come from consistent, sustained effort—not occasional bursts.

From regular social posts to newsletters and retargeting ads, Amy outlines practical ways businesses can build momentum and trust without burning out.

The takeaway? Keep showing up. The brands that do are the ones that win.
Read the full column here: https://kitsapbusiness.com/marketing-is-a-muscle-not-a-one-time-push/

07/26/2025

ICYMI from our May issue: Breaking Bread, Building Belonging

Sandra Rocha Evanoff’s Global Mission Starts in Kitsap

Poulsbo chef Sandra Rocha Evanoff is using food to feed both body and soul.

Through her business, Brasil Comes To You, and global work with the Social Gastronomy Movement, Evanoff blends Afro Brazilian cuisine, cultural storytelling, and social impact to fight hunger and foster belonging. From private dinners to cooking classes for young refugees, her mission is clear: food is the universal language that connects us all.

Read the full story here: https://kitsapbusiness.com/breaking-bread-building-belonging/

📸 COURTESY OF SANDRA ROCHA EVANOFF