The Greater Kingston Community Chamber of Commerce supports and promotes a thriving economic community, and the Mike Wallace Memorial Park plays an important role, which includes holding several successful summer events. The Mike Wallace Memorial Park is lovingly cared for and part of the Port of Kingston. Tom Berry, Port of Kingston Harbormaster says, "Our Port crew is extremely proud of the park and we’re always receiving comments from the community about how much they enjoy the park."

The highlight of Kingston’s summer events is the Fourth of July, and the Park is the centerpiece for entertainment, viewing the fireworks, family picnics and fun. "This year, we were very happy at how well the 4th of July fireworks event went," says Berry, whose staff worked extra hard to ensure that the event was enjoyable for the community. "We estimated that we had 3,500 people on the grass and 5000 people in the immediate area and everything went smoothly," says Berry.

The Port staff remodeled the park bathrooms just before the event and Berry says, "Our staff actually did the remodel work and we’re very proud of this major upgrade to the park."

Throughout the month of August the park held Tuesday Tunes. "We have at least 500 people showing up every Tuesday to enjoy live entertainment at the park," says Berry. "The Park really gives back to the community and it’s encouraging for all of us to see our tax dollars at work in such a great way."

Kingston Farmers Market continues to run each Saturday at the park through October 16th. Clinton & Cindi Dudley, market managers said, "The park is so beautiful. We couldn’t ask for a better location."

This year, the market has had a great turn out of vendors including an abundance of local and regional produce. "Come to the market for fresh produce," says Cindi. "We’ll have lettuce, chard, spinach, various herbs, peppers, broccoli, berries, onions, potatoes, beans, and more during the harvest time."

At each market, a free booth space is available for local community groups to share information. "We’ve been very busy in our community booth," says Cindi. "This year, we’ve enjoyed having Aqua-Express, North Kitsap Fire and Rescue, Kingston Revitalization Association, Kitsap County Public Works, Kingston Chiropractic, Natural Landscape, The Great Peninsula Conservancy, League of Women Voters, Master Gardeners and others, who have provided valuable information to our community members." To contact the Kingston Farmers Market, go to www.kingstonfarmersmarket.com or contact the Dudley’s at 360.297.7683.

The Greater Kingston Chamber of Commerce is conveniently located in the Kingston Community Center and is your source for community and business information. Visit our new website for a membership directory, calendar of events and more. Go to: www.kingstonchamber.com or call us at 360.297.3813.