In September Washington Filmworks (WF) staff members Amy Lillard and Krys Karns took a one-day trip to the City of Lakewood and Kitsap County. They spoke to elected officials about the positive economic impact of filming and scouted film-friendly locations. The day started early with coffee in Lakewood where Lillard and Karns meet with Becky Newton, Economic Development Specialist for the City.

From Lakewood they traveled north to the Kitsap Peninsula, which covers  approximately 393 square miles of diverse topography. There they meet with their host for the day Patty Graf-Hoke, Director of Visit Kitsap Peninsula. The first stop was Manchester State Park with its historic church and bunkers. The trio travelled on to the waterfront community of Port Orchard to meet with Kitsap County Commissioner Charlotte Garrido, Mayor Tim Matthes of the City of Port Orchard, and Christine Daniel Executive Director of the Port Orchard Chamber of Commerce. Lillard and Karns were treated to a tour of the Cedar Cove Inn, which has been fully restored and is one of the area’s premiere film-friendly destinations.

Krys and Amy stopped briefly for refreshments at the Elandan Gardens and Bonsai Museum, and were hosted by owners Dan and Diana Robinson.  Elandan Gardens is internationally known for its bonsai collection and the work of master bonsai artist Dan Robinson. The gardens are a six-acre natural oasis located on the Kitsap Peninsula. Continuing up the Peninsula, Lillard and Karns also visited various locations including the historic Charleston and Manette Districts.

The day ended in the City of Bremerton to meet with Mayor Patty Lent. Lillard and Karns were treated to a walking tour of the city, where the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard continues to service U.S. Navy ships.  WF looks forward to partnering with these jurisdictions to bring more motion picture production to Washington State. We would like to thank our host in Kitsap County, Patty Graf-Hoke, for her hospitality.