December 2018 Gig Harbor Living Local

December 2018

LIVING LOCAL

In Focus

A Race to Tokyo

Light Up

the Night

Good News

Get featured! Join us on Facebook...

Paddle Your Dragon

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pg. 20

#gigharborliving 1

SERVING GIG HARBOR

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We believe that offering exceptional patient care is a collaborative effort. Our trained and knowledgeable staff understand that every patient is unique and strives to promote a warm and caring environment where our patients feel comfortable.

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Because We Care.

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WESTMORELAND PROPERTIES Premier Luxury Listing Brokerage

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This information is not intended to be an indication of loan qualification, loan approval or a commitment to lend.

Other limitations may apply. ©2014 Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation FIMC NMLS ID#2289 (www. nmlsconsumeraccess.org) EQUAL HOUSING LENDER WA. License Number MLO-248580.

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Grand Opening!

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Locally owned and operated

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A New Chapter has Begun at Maritime Chiropractic!

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Dr. John Duppenthaler Maritime Chiropractic 253.857.9100 6565 Kimball Dr. Suite 101

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M EX E PE DIC RT A IS L E

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DECEMBER 2018 VOLUME 5 NUMBER 12

features Holiday Entertaining Made Simple Tips and tricks for the season

76

Give the Gift of Memories

Unique gift ideas that last a lifetime and don't break the budget

Celebrate the Holiday Season Gig Harbor style

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82 88

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GIGHARBORLIVINGLOCAL.COM

Eat. Shop. Enjoy.

MARKETING

Sales & Marketing | Steve Russo 208.946.0901 | steve@livinglocal360.com

EDITORIAL

Senior Editor | Content Manager Jillian Chandler | jillian@livinglocal360.com Staff Writer Patty Hutchens | patty@livinglocal360.com Staff Writer Colin Anderson | colin@livinglocal360.com

DESIGN

photo

cred

y

ograph

n phot

ni Lyn it: Jah

Creative Director Design Director | Graphic Designer Graphic Designer

| Whitney Lebsock Maddie Russo | Donna Johnson | Darbey Scrimsher

OPERATIONS

Groceries, Deli, Coffee, Boxed Lunches, Grab & Go Meals & Gifts STORE HOURS Monday – Saturday 7am-7pm, Sunday 8am-5pm DRivE THRU WinDOW OpEn Monday-Saturday at 7am

7804 PIONEER WAY, GIG HARBOR

253.358.3241

www.theharborgeneralstore.com GigHarborLivingLocal.com

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Managing Partner | Kim Russo Executive Director | Steve Russo Director of Operations | Rachel Figgins

CONTRIBUTORS

Nikki Luttmann, Kenny Markwardt, Bri Williams, Julie Yeh, Anneli Fogt, Troy Louis Chandler, Marguerite Cleveland

GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL MAGAZINE is brought to you by LivingLocal360.com. If you would like to advertise with us please call 253.273.8524 or email info@livinglocal360.com.

To submit articles, photos, nominations and events, email us at events@livinglocal360.com.

Living Local Magazine is published monthly and distributed freely throughout the Pacific Northwest and Inland Northwest; Gig Harbor, Edmonds, Bonners Ferry, Sandpoint, Dover Bay, Coeur d’Alene, Hayden, Rathdrum and the Spokane Valley. Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Living Local Magazine is not responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. Living Local Magazine is produced and published by Living Local 360, and no part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted without the permission of the publisher.

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My husband works for Gig Harbor Fire & Medicine One, and each year firefighters and elves take Santa around Gig Harbor to spread holiday cheer and hand out candy canes. They also collect food, new toys and clothes for the FISH Food Bank. It is a wonderful holiday tradition that the community looks forward to each year!

-Michelle Johnson Images by MJ Instagram: imagesbymj FB: Images by MJ

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We know you have more to worry about.

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PUBLISHER’S

Note

MAKING A POSITIVE IMPACT OUR MISSION AT LIVING LOCAL IS SIMPLE. It is to impact the communities we serve in a positive way by creating content that will connect the community with one another. It is an approach that has made us one of the most unique and trusted publications in the community and is something in which we take pride.

We also realize it would not be possible without our clients and those in the community who have supported us along our journey.

You have likely noticed that our publication is full of GOOD NEWS. It is here where you will find heartwarming stories of those people, organizations and businesses who are working to make this community a place people love to call home. Here you will not find anything political or controversial; those stories are for others to print.

We love to bring stories that are unique; ones you will not find in other publications. In a world that finds many struggling, we enjoy bringing to the forefront the work of nonprofit organizations that work tirelessly to bring

blessings to those who may be facing challenges in life.

Our goal is to not only connect people in the community but also to inspire one another, perhaps provide ideas of how each one of us can give of our time and talents to make our home an even better place.

As another year closes, we at Living Local reflect on how fortunate we are to connect with amazing people in the communities we serve. Thank you for sharing your stories with us as we continue to strive to connect and inspire one another!

I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and many blessings.

Steve Russo

Steve Russo Executive Director steve@livinglocal360.com Creating | Connecting | Living Local

ABOUT THE COVER THE HARBOR IS AGLOW WITH THE BRIGHT LIGHTS OF CHRISTMAS and the sounds of holiday cheer, while families decorate their homes to reflect the spirit of Christmas.

'Tis the season to gather 'round with family and friends to share smiles and laughter while creating new memories. This is the time of year we all look forward to. May the rest of your 2018 be joyous, and cheers to a blessed 2019.

Proud To Partner

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All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth!

Kenslie, Kasen, & Mac Campbell Gig Harbor, WA

Š de Recat PHOTOGRAPHY

Do you remember when all you wanted for Christmas was your two front teeth?

Well, no one does, really! What you really, really wanted was maybe that Xbox, that pony, that bicycle or maybe just a date with Justin Bieber! The holidays are always a lot of fun, filled with friends, family and cherished memories. Keeping it merry and bright, right? Wollochet Dental Arts wants to keep your smile permanently merry and bright all year long and for the rest of your life. What better gift to give yourself than your overall health? Wollochet Dental Arts wishes you abundant blessings and cheer for this holiday 6504 Wollochet Dr NW | Gig Harbor, WA 98335 season and the coming year.

Happy Holidays!

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debraennekingdds.com | (253) 858-5869

GET SOCIAL

CONNECT WITH GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL MAGAZINE

1.

3. #GIGHARBORLIVING #GigHarborLiving Your photos will show up on our Get Social page at GIGHARBORLIVINGLOCAL.COM

and you’ll have the chance to see your photos in print right here!

2.

facebook.com/gigharborliving

pinterest.com/LL360

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1.

This is my new assistant if you didn’t know.

2.

The mountain was out this morning and we got a hint of color at 6:02.

#holidayminisession #photography #gigharborliving

hushedrevelry via

#gigharbor #gigharborliving #mtrainierwatch

dif1998 via

3.

Our furry friend Lulu out for a stroll on the dock. #shiptoshoremarine #arabellaslanding #gigharbor

shiptoshoremarine via

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CONTACT US TO ADVERTISE Steve Russo Washington Director 208.946.0901 steve@livinglocal360.com

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Contents pg. 46

pg. 34

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Get Featured

Join our Facebook group Gig Harbor Living for a chance to get your photos, recipes, ideas and much more featured.

24

Essentials

The latest tips and trends in your area

33

Life & Community

34

Good News

38

Business Spotlight

Light Up the Night!: 5th Annual St. Lucia’s Festival: Connecting community, history and tradition

Paddle Your Dragon: Local club mixes fun and competition

HarborDog: Guiding families and their pets through life

52

Business Spotlight

Gig Harbor Film Festival: Educating, entertaining and inspiring

56 Health & Lifestyle Tips and informational articles about living a healthy, active lifestyle

66

Feature Story

92

Travel & Leisure

My MS: Coping with multiple sclerosis has reflected the rest of my life

Quiet Season on Orcas Island: The perfect antidote to all the holiday commotion

40 Gig Harbor In Focus

99

46 Living Local

104

A Race to Tokyo: Local sailor pursuing Olympic dream

Historic Boatyard Provides Tangible Link: The people and heritage of the Gig Harbor waterfront

Food & Drink

Discover Gig Harbor's tastiest recipes and restaurants

Arts & Entertainment

Calendar of great local events, music and shows

GigHarborLivingLocal.com

pg. 40 22

Live Where You Play.

GigHarborHomes Real Estate | LindaPetersenTeam

HAPPY HOLIDAYS W I S H I N G YO U G O O D C H E E R F O R T H E H O L I D AY S A N D WA R M W I S H E S F O R T H E N E W Y E A R W I T H G O O D H E A LT H , H A P P I N E S S A N D P R O S P E R I T Y I N 2 01 9 !

GIG HARBOR’S PREMIER REAL ESTATE TEAM

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Tiny Moments …

STORY AND PHOTOS BY BRETT MARLO DESANTIS

W

e were huddled up on the turquoise and grey checkered linoleum floor leaning our bodies toward the wood-burning stove in an attempt to warm ourselves. I look up at the exposed turquoise-washed wood ceiling and over at the heavily troweled orange-sherbet tinted kitchen wall; it’s strikingly adorable and also uninsulated.

The small mid-century cabin, three times the size of my tiny house, felt larger than life at that moment. As we inched closer and closer to our only heat source, my dear friend turned her gaze away from the fire just long enough to ask me what my most memorable moment was this year.

I guess I shouldn’t be surprised by the sudden introspection, however, I was unprepared. It’s mid-November, and we were saying goodbye to her cabin for the year.

As I attempt to marinate on her thoughtful question, I am stuck in that present moment. My girls are playing cards from their sleeping bags on couches that still look as they

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did half a century ago. I listen to the wood crackle, the girls’ giggles, and I realize it is these tiny moments in these small spaces that I have grown to truly treasure.

This year we said goodbye to the typical American home, and we opened ourselves to a new lifestyle, fully and completely.

We challenged ourselves to follow our hearts; giving up lots and lots of stuff, learning an abundance about ourselves and others, and gaining experiences and insights along the way.

Suddenly I realize just how important and life altering this year has been.

Luckily we aren’t the only ones being open minded about new ways of living and being.

In an effort to bring life and fire safety to tiny building practices, exactly one year ago in December of 2017, the International Code Council (ICC) approved the new Appendix Q for Tiny Houses for the 2018 International Residential Code (IRC). Co-Authors Martin Hammer, Andrew and Gabriella Morrison, along with advisor David

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These tiny moments ... I have grown to truly treasure.

Eisenberg, crafted this code-change proposal to respond to an urgent need to address common safety concerns such as safe access, egress and loft ceiling heights.

Tiny House Appendix Q creates codes for those wanting to live in tiny houses (400 square feet or less excluding lofts) as fulltime residences, also known as single-dwelling units. To establish occupancy, a residential dwelling must provide permanent provisions for sleeping, cooking, eating, living and sanitation. A dwelling by definition, no matter the size, is a primary use and a permanent, habitable occupancy.

To be clear, this appendix is for tiny houses on foundations, not tiny houses on wheels, and this assumes that local zoning laws don’t have minimum square-footage requirements that would make living tiny impossible at that location.

Appendices are not automatically adopted as part of the main codes; they are optional and must be specifically adopted. Adopting

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jurisdictions can modify the appendix by local amendment if they think something problematic enough that it needs to be changed.

Once adopted, the appendix will become part of a state’s IRC building code.

This means that where the appendix is adopted, builders can go to their local building department with plans that meet the code, and once the project is completed successfully, a Certificate of Occupancy will be issued.

Idaho was the first state to adopt the Tiny House Appendix statewide, then the states of Maine, Oregon and multiple counties in Colorado.

In jurisdictions where the appendix has not been adopted, it may still be employed on a project basis by using the IRC entitled Alternative Materials, Design and Methods of construction and equipment.

For years, building officials have been receiving tiny house questions, unable to respond without written codes in place. Now thoughtful,

A A A H!

affordable adaptable alternative housing

reasonable codes exist, and with adoption, compliance will follow and safety risks will lessen. In addition, building codes allow for meaningful conversations within our cities and counties regarding local zoning changes.

You name it. tiny house, granny suite, backyard cottage, sidekick-in-law, attached or detached, basement apartment, compact design, small footprint housing, love shack, on-grid-off-grid

It’s difficult not to become enamored with the romantic notion of a cozy space with less stuff, less cleaning, maintenance, bills and lower energy use. And while it’s not for everyone, there are a growing number of people who are embracing this way of living.

When we open our minds and our hearts to other ways of living and being, we give each other the best gift of all. Happy Holidays!

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TAKING STOCK OF YOUR KITCHEN UPGRADES JUST IN TIME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

BY NIKKI LUTTMANN, INTERIOR DESIGNER

W

ith the holidays in full swing, our attention at home naturally turns to the kitchen. The center of our homes, the kitchen is often the busiest room in the house. So it’s only natural that if we look to make any home improvements this time of year, our first thought is that our kitchens could use a little “sprucing up.”

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So many people are redoing their countertops these days. Granite and even quartz countertops are growing more affordable, and their durability can’t be beat. However, I often caution people against adding new countertops if their cabinetry is in sad shape, as eventually the cabinets will have to be replaced as well, and it just does not make sense to spend the money on counters if their cabinetry will not last for at least another 10 years. If this is the case with your kitchen, then my advice is to wait, do it properly and save for both new cabinets and countertops.

You will not regret spending the extra money to have a whole new kitchen, even if it means a year or two longer with the old one!

However, if the cabinetry is solid and still functions properly (i.e. doors and drawers open and close nicely and the overall layout is acceptable), then a countertop upgrade is merited. If the cabinets still function and are solid but appear worn or dirty, then sometimes it can be a good idea to have them painted or refinished. However, if they are in good shape and clean but just “dated,” often just the addition of pretty hardware is all

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that’s needed to bring the cabinetry up to our current standards.

Another upgrade option might include cabinets and laminate countertops that are still in relatively good shape but a worn, water-stained wood backsplash that we find in so many houses from the ‘80s and ‘90s. In this case, an easy fix would be to remove the old wooden splash and replace it with some great hard-wearing tile that doesn’t break the bank and ties the whole look together. A qualified tile installer can have this done in as little as a day or two with minimal disturbance to the rest of the kitchen.

Flooring works especially hard in a kitchen, taking a beating from spills, dishes dropping, trash going in and out, dish water, etc. There are some great new LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank) products out there that can go right over existing sheet vinyl, worn hardwood or even tile, that can add a layer of durability and beauty to any decorating scheme. They usually go in quickly and easily, and this is an upgrade that can be done in as little as a day!

My advice: Take stock of your kitchen, look around honestly and ask yourself what needs to be replaced, what can stay and what needs a little tweak to make it just right for you and your loved ones this holiday season. And always, if in doubt, contact a professional.

Most of us are trained to take stock of what you already have while taking your wish list into account and come up with a game plan to make your dream kitchen a reality.

NEED MONEY MANAGEMENT? FIVE WAYS A PRO CAN HELP (BPT) - WHILE MANY BELIEVE ONLY THE WEALTHY NEED FINANCIAL PROFESSIONALS, the truth is that hiring such key advisors may help pay for itself financially and bring you peace of mind— regardless of your economic status.

Consider how these five life stages can be important times to seek professional guidance and advice about your financial future.

You’re saving for college tuition - It’s no secret today’s college costs can be astronomical, but of course most parents want to provide their children as many advantages as possible. The earlier in your kids’ lives you begin investing, the faster their college fund(s) can accrue.

A professional can help decipher the best methods for helping make that happen.

You’re getting ready to retire - Now what?

Only 50 percent of Americans have stocked away more than $10,000 for retirement so far, reports the American Payroll Association.

But even if you're nearing 50 and have a minimal amount in your retirement fund, it’s not too late to start building wealth for your future. Whether you plan for lifetime income via an annuity or opt for another savings vehicle as part of your retirement strategy, a professional can assess your situation and develop a strategy with the goal of a comfortable retirement in mind.

and bills may be an added burden you’re not prepared to address. That’s when a session with a financial professional may ease your mind and even be a preemptive strike against future money troubles.

Your friendly, neighborhood Gig Harbor dentist.

You want to start investing - Finding a financial professional who understands your situation and can design solutions for your day-to-day financial concerns can go a long way toward financial peace of mind, says Salene Hitchcock-Gear, president, Prudential Individual Life Insurance and Prudential Advisors. You might be tempted to DIY, but a financial professional can see the big picture and work with you to create a strategy based on your timeline, risk tolerance and goals.

Bottom line? You don't need to be a millionaire to benefit from the services of a financial professional. But working with one just might put you on the road to setting and achieving your financial goals. For more information about building a financial future for yourself and your family, visit Prudential at PrudentialAdvisors.com.

"Prudential Advisors" is a brand name of The Prudential Insurance Company of America and its subsidiaries located in Newark, New Jersey. Securities products and services are offered through Pruco Securities, LLC (Member SIPC). 1008637-00001-00

Your parents are aging or ill - Caring for an aging or ill parent is tough emotionally.

Elder care is an expensive business, and planning how to use your folks’ money to ensure they get the best possible care can be complex. Talking to a financial professional can be a great way to sort that out, since their focus will be on the most appropriate use of available funds.

New patients welcome.

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You're undergoing a life transition Marrying, divorcing, starting a family or dealing with the death of a loved one can impact your finances as well as your emotions.

But in times of great change or strife, budgets

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Your community is the most important thing in your life; Your friends Your family Your hometown businesses.

Your healthcare providers.

3220 Uddenberg Lane, Suite 6 Gig Harbor, WA 98335 harborviewdentistry.com 29

DAILY ACTIVITIES TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

By Deborah Olive

A

lumberjack, a botanist and a monk walk into a forest. What do they see? The botanist sees plants to study, the lumberjack sees trees to chop down and the monk sees the miracle of existence. Three people and three different perspectives on reality. How you walk through the world is unique, and much of it is based on how you perceive the world.

What’s your perspective on the holidays? What comes to mind? Are they magical or overwhelming? Do you look forward to participating or are they emotionally draining? Do your holidays feel like a never-ending todo list? You may experience any or all of these perspectives—depending on the day.

When I was a kid, the holiday season was magical. The adults in my life intended to make them special—and they did. This season was filled with meaning, rich stories, traditions, gifts, decorations, seasonal gatherings and special meals. Today, it’s not up to someone else to create the magic. Instead, I realize that my perspective shapes my experience of the holidays. As an adult, and a business owner, I have an opportunity to create a bit of magic for others. Of course, that’s my perspective and my intention. What’s yours?

This is a season of giving.

Though it may seem counterintuitive, the businesses that give more value than they receive are the businesses that thrive. For example, an accountant who prepares taxes for $1,000 and saves their client $5,000

GigHarborLivingLocal.com

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gives more than they receive. The client is pleased with the value delivered by their accountant and tells others. Word of mouth, Facebook and Yelp reviews are powerful tools in growing a thriving business.

How do you give more than you receive? It’s not always financial. In fact, many times it’s not. It’s how your client feels after interacting with you.

Have you added a little magic in their day? Do your clients or customers feel welcome? Have you eased their pain? Solved a problem? Are your interactions personal? In a world that’s busier every year than the last, a personal touch can be powerful—for both of you. What value do you deliver? Do you provide more than expected?

When you set the intention to give and you see the world from the perspective of a giver, you become one of the people who creates a bit of magic, and you can offer even more during this giving season. Here are a few ideas that you can work into your daily activities that won’t break the budget—but they do create a little magic: 1. Smile. When you share a genuine smile and intentionally want someone to feel welcome, you can make their day.

2. Intentionally create an experience. I recently attended an open house filled with conversation, laughter, hot beverages, prizes and opportunities to admire the wares of the business owner. It was a “win” for everyone.

3. Select your favorite charity and give back to the community.

What if2018 you Finish

didn’t have Strong to choose Start 2019 between your family and Stronger your career?

When you set the intention to give and you see the world from the perspective of a giver, you become

Find balance, motivation, and proven strategies to

Unleash your true potential

one of the people who creates a bit of magic 4. Offer an unexpected compliment and start a conversation.

“I work with you to leverage the power of neuroscience, positive psychology and just plain how human beings work to help you write a New Story about who you are, what’s possible for you so that you can enjoy a life that is waaay more fun!”

5. Give a gift personalized to your recipient.

For example, give a gift with “their” logo on it, rather than yours.

6. Give a note of appreciation, sharing specifically what you appreciate about that person.

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7. Provide the gift of patience. In the hustle and bustle of the season, giving someone the time they need can be more welcome than you know.

8. Provide a drawing for a grab bag (the drawing can build anticipation for the gift over time) or a gift to a charity on someone’s behalf.

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5th Annual St. Lucia’s Festival: Connecting community, history and tradition

Light Up

BY JILLIAN CHANDLER PHOTO COURTESY OF LIZ PEDERSEN, HARBOR HISTORY MUSEUM

C

elebrations abound this time of year in Gig Harbor. And there is one particular event that you won’t want to miss! Join the Harbor History Museum Friday, December 14, 5 to 6:30pm, for the fifth annual Light Up the Night: St. Lucia’s Festival.

The evening will begin with the St. Lucia Procession and will be followed by an assortment of fun, Scandinavian-themed activities, crafts and games taking place inside the Museum. Guests will also enjoy traditional Scandinavian treats, photo opportunities, story time and caroling.

“From the Swedish farmers of Crescent Valley to the Norwegian fishermen and Finnish grocers, Gig Harbor has a rich Scandinavian heritage,” says Zachary Sokolik, marketing and events coordinator for Harbor History Museum. “Light Up the Night: Harbor History Museum’s Annual St. Lucia Festival offers a fun, family centered opportunity to connect community, history and tradition; it is truly unlike anything else in Gig Harbor.”

“Light Up the Night continues to grow every year, and as more people learn about the event, we have more and more families wanting to participate,” says Zachary. “Last year we set a record for attendance, and we are expecting another great turnout this year.”

Children and adults alike will explore Scandinavian traditions and discover the story of St. Lucia while paying homage to a unique part of Gig Harbor history. “Light Up the Night

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is a festive and fun evening that offers both an educational experience and an opportunity to feel a part of our unique community. What a great way to kick off the holidays!” adds Zachary.

Join the community in celebrating Gig Harbor’s Scandinavian heritage. This family friendly event is just $3 for all ages and is free for Harbor History Museum members and their families. Tickets are available now and can be purchased at the front desk or online at HarborHistoryMuseum.org.

“This event would not be possible without some wonderful museum volunteers,” says Zachary. "We want to thank them for all their efforts and for helping make this event a reality for Gig Harbor.”

Local club mixes fun and competition

BY COLIN ANDERSON PHOTOS COURTESY OF GIG HARBOR DRAGON BOAT CLUB

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haron Byrne Shaffer wants to get you excited about Dragon Boat Racing. The current president of the Gig Harbor Dragon Boat Club can’t say enough about how much fun she had as she recalled her first experience on the boat.

“I competed with a novice team from my Rotary Club. Novice means that we knew nothing. I didn’t even know how to hold the paddle,” she said. “I was beat up by the end of that race and exhausted.

But, being in that boat with friends, I was instantly in love with dragon boats and wanted it here for our community.”

Dragon boat racing dates back more than 2,500 years to an area in Southern China. A vessel features paddlers working in unison, a steering operator and a drummer, whose beat helps synchronize the paddle strokes. Today, the U.S. is one of 74 nations that are members of the International Dragon Boat Federation.

Started just four years ago by the Canoe and Kayak Club, the Gig Harbor Dragon Boat Club now boasts more than 70 ‘Dragons,’ the majority of which practice year round. With help from The Gig Harbor Marina, PenMet Parks and many

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PHOTO BY FRANK OWEN SHAW

Paddle Your Dragon

others, a 20-person boat was secured and the group was off and running.

“We operate as a true team, building our power together, supporting each other with common goals, welcoming all newcomers, building relationships, building muscle memory, sharing responsibility. It’s kind of like the very best of kindergarten all over again!” explained Sharon.

It quickly became popular, and last year two smaller 10-person boats were added, allowing the team to expand. The combination of fun, camaraderie and competition is appealing to many.

“We have a ton of fun together. We work hard in the boat; we tease each other and toss a bit of smack talk around. Beyond our shared travel to regional competitions, we gather for seasonal parties that are actually epic,” Sharon said.

The Dragons dressed up for Halloween, and on December 15 you’ll find them dressed in holiday costumes paddling through the harbor singing merriment and spreading holiday cheer.

Training is done five days a week in 90-minute sessions. Members can choose how often they

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"We operate as a true team, building our power together, supporting each other with common goals, welcoming all newcomers, building relationships, building muscle memory, sharing responsibility." want to paddle, but Sharon warns that once you try it you will be hooked. During the winter months, the training is scheduled around building up endurance. During the spring and summer season, it’s on to race readiness: race strategy, best form, race transitions, synchronicity and power.

While much of the team is competitive, you can also choose to be a recreational member.

A youth program is also in place for ages 12 through 17, where skills are honed and teamwork is learned.

While some are just in it for recreation, a few paddlers have joined up with Washington Area Maters (WAM) to compete even more vigorously. Last year two went to world competitions in Hungary. Four more are working to qualify for international WAM team competitions.

“So, we are recreational, we are competitive in regional, national, international, and we are proud,” said Sharon.

In just four short years, the group has already taken home nine medals at regional races.

Recent competitions include: Olympia, Tacoma, Lake Meridian at Kent, Seattle at Lake Union, False Creek in Vancouver and Victoria, B.C., and Flathead Lake in Montana.

While the podium is always a welcomed accomplishment of the hard work put it, it’s the beautiful sunrise and sunset paddles around their local harbor that many find to be the very best part of being a Dragon.

“We have fun together on the water, we work hard together, we take care of each other and we challenge each other,” said Sharon.

“Amazing people and dang good workouts in this gorgeous harbor of ours.”

Whether recreational or competitive, goals are regularly set by all members. Goals might be to nail the start, to smooth out a transition or to be perfectly synchronized.

On personal levels, each has form and stroke pieces that are worked on individually.

“Right now my personal goal is to nail the catch in my stroke and use my legs and core for most power,” said Sharon.

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As the group grows, it continues to be actively engaged in the community by partnering with the Gig Harbor Canoe and Kayak team for their Paddlers’ Cup. Members help them on the Dragon Boat race day by training the novice teams comprised of local businesses for a friendly day of competition.

In March, the second annual Dragon Flea Market will be held at the old Peninsula Gardens site. Money raised goes to covering boat and moorage expenses. All items are donated by team members and friends, and any items not sold are donated to local charities.

“Honestly, I have never been involved with a more wonderful bunch of folks,” said Sharon.

For a free introductory paddle, you can call Sharon at 253.208.4353. The Dragons provide both the portable flotation device and paddle. You’ll find the group gathering at the Pavilion at Skansie Brothers Park and boarding boats at Jerisich Dock.

TEACHER OF THE MONTH

Dawn Barnes

BY COLIN ANDERSON

“The best learning is that which engages students, helps them grow academically and creates positive memories about learning,” said Dawn.

D

awn Barnes knows firsthand that not all students learn at the same pace. December’s teacher of the month is the Title I and Learning Assistance Program (LAP) reading specialist at Minter Creek Elementary. Title I is federally funded while LAP is a state-funded program established by the Washington State Legislature in 1979. The object of both programs is to accelerate the achievement of students performing below grade level by providing supplemental academic support.

Dawn’s students visit “the barn,” her name for the special learning space, four days a week to focus on reading skills. She brings a variety of learning lessons and techniques to boost young children’s confidence and is most happy when she sees the enjoyment her lessons bring to her students.

“The best learning is that which engages students, helps them grow academically and creates positive memories about learning,” said Dawn. “I know the next time they come to work and learn with me and my team, they’ll be excited because of the memories they have created prior.”

Dawn has been teaching in the district for 14 years and has been influential in the lives of hundreds of students. She adds that she especially enjoys getting to know the families behind her students.

“Knowing that, through the years, you can build a bond with a family that leads to trust is so valuable. To put it simply, I have become a person that this family can rely on and count on to put the best interest of their children first,” she said.

As her lessons continue to get more challenging for students, Dawn always tries to keep things fun and positive. Kindergarteners especially don’t want to stop and want to keep learning through play. While the lessons vary, one constant Dawn always preaches is for her students to give it their all, and she will even bring her own personal trials and triumphs into the classroom.

“I love to bake and decorate cakes, cupcakes, cookies and cake pops. I share some of my successes and failures with my students but always give the precedent that I tried my best,” said Dawn.

Getting struggling readers up to speed with their classmates is never an easy task, but Dawn takes the challenge head on by making sure kids are having fun while learning, trying their very best and keeping parents informed and involved in the progress.

“It takes a team to support the magic that is learning, and having the support of families is crucial,” said Dawn.

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rowing up in a competitive dog show home, Shelah Frey was raised with a love for animals by her mother—her mentor. Shelah learned from a young age how to care for, train and manage dogs in their multi-dog home. Her mother mentored her into the competition ring, where her hobby became her career.

An independent professional dog trainer and handler since 1999, Shelah made the decision to shift her focus from professional dog show handling in 2013 and immerse herself in family dog training. “After many years working with animals, I realized this is a passion and loved helping families work through issues with their pets. This has been a rewarding experience.”

As one of the top breeders of Labrador Retrievers (Mainland Labrador Retrievers) in the world, Shelah has a long devotion to one of the best family pets. “I start training my puppies at four days of age. Along with excellent temperaments, they are beautiful pets. Many of my dogs go on to be therapy and guide dogs, which has been one of my proudest achievements.”

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Born and raised on Mercer Island, Shelah has truly enjoyed living in the great Pacific Northwest. With many of her family and friends relocating to Gig Harbor, Shelah decided to follow her heart and move to Gig Harbor in 2016 and launch her own canine coaching program through HarborDog Boarding and Training, LLC. December 2018 she celebrates her business’s second anniversary!

At HarborDog, you will find an intimate boarding kennel where Shelah generally takes in less than eight dogs at any given time.

Here they believe a strong canine coach can assist any family through the stages of a pet’s life. And training doesn’t end with ‘puppy basics.’ “We are here to provide a guide wherever your pal is in their life,” says Shelah. What makes HarborDog unique from other similar businesses is that they offer in-home or excursion lessons to stimulate training needs. Personalized schedules are made depending on your dog’s individual needs and/or issues.

They also offer a three-week boarding and training program,

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which includes private lessons; these lessons can be done in the client’s home.

For those interested in competitive events for their canine athlete, Shelah and her staff have decades of experience to help you and your furry friend find that winning edge.

When it comes to what Shelah finds most rewarding about the work she does, she says it’s helping families love their pets. “When an animal becomes part of the family, it really has a responsibility and we want to trust that pet. Family coaching brings everyone to a great understanding of each other’s needs.”

Welcoming a new family member into your home is an important life decision. With her expertise and dedication, Shelah is ready and willing to implement a personalized training program that’s right for your dog—and your family. To find out more, call Shelah at 425.466.6208.

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GIG HARBOR IN FOCUS A RACE TO TOKYO

LOCAL SAILOR PURSUING OLYMPIC DREAM

BY COLIN ANDERSON

I

magine if the Super Bowl, NBA Finals or World Series were only held once every four years. Now imagine those household names and sports icons weren’t paid to play and instead went to work each day like you and me, and spent their evenings and down time training and competing for a once-in-a-lifetime chance at a championship.

This is the reality that most of our Olympic hopefuls face. No mega contracts, multimillion dollar endorsements, private charters or personal chefs, just a love of their sport and determination to complete for a chance at their own athletic glory.

and Gig Harbor sailor Hanne Weaver’s lifelong dream is to take on the world’s best and bring home a medal for her country.

The 2020 summer games are in Tokyo, Japan,

“He took me sailing when I was little. I guess it runs in my blood,” said Hanne.

“I have always had the dream to go to the Olympics,. To win and represent my country will be an honor,” she said.

Hanne was just 8 years old when she learned to sail on Wollochet Bay with the Tacoma Yacht Club’s Learn to Sail program. Her grandfather was the first to take her out on the water, and from that first experience, her lifelong passion was born.

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Hanne picked up the sport quickly and started competing in youth events and finding early success. As her skills improved, she sought out even more competitive events, taking home wins regionally and nationally. Winning at the highest level helped prove to Hanne that she has a real shot of competing for her country and also has helped shape the woman she is today.

“I have been so many different places and have experienced so much with becoming a sailor.

Sailing has taught me so much about being independent, reliable and a strong female,” she said.

As with any sport, team or individual, to be the best you have to fully dedicate yourself to your craft. For Hanne, this means long days and nights in the gym, constantly being on the water even in less than ideal conditions, and not having as much time with friends as your typical young adult would.

Hanne keeps her calendar close by and each week it’s packed, even when there isn’t a competition going on. She’s in the gym five days each week, sometimes six. She trains on the water three to four days each week as well.

She says she is very thankful for the support of her sponsor, CHI Franciscan Health, which helps her out with expenses. But like most

other Olympic hopefuls, Hanne works a job as well. You’ll find her at the LOFT in Uptown when she’s not in the gym or on the water.

Hanne’s friends know that sailing always comes first, and they are behind her in her quest for the Olympic Games.

“It’s hard to choose between all of it, but when you love it as much as I do, you will do anything to get out on the water.”

One of the many things that makes the Olympics so unique is the world is introduced to sports they might not be familiar with.

Though her style of racing is done in more than 120 countries, 2020 is an opportunity for

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Hanne to bring more awareness to the sport she loves so dearly here in the states.

While there are various sailing events, Hanne will be competing as an individual in the Women’s Singlehanded event. Her boat is a Laser Radial 14-foot dinghy. Hanne is only about six inches off the water as she constantly adjusts her sail and course. To the uninitiated it might appear that she is just holding the sail and letting the wind do the work, but there is so much more at play.

“Laser sailing is a very physical sport. It looks easy, but sailing has a lot going on. The wind doesn’t always come from the same direction,

"SAILING HAS TAUGHT ME SO MUCH ABOUT BEING INDEPENDENT, RELIABLE AND A STRONG FEMALE." not each wave is the same, then there is the current and obstacles in the water, too,” she explained.

Being so close to the water, Hanne is being splashed and also needs to be fully aware of the other boats around her. Similar to competitive golf, sailing is a self-governed sport, which means that each competitor is responsible for himself or herself. But sailors can protest each other if they break any rules. With 80 or so boats out on the course at a time, there is a lot to be aware of.

As the calendar flips to 2019, there are more events on Hanne’s schedule leading up to her big Olympic qualifiers. In January, she will be competing in the Miami World Cup, a regatta she qualified for earlier. She will continue to challenge herself with these races, and, in 2020, the two biggest races of her life will take place.

“There will be one in Florida and one in Australia. Whoever places with the lowest points at both competitions wins the spot for the Olympics,” she said.

There is only one spot available, so competition will be fierce as other sailors around the country are also hoping to see their Olympic dreams realized.

Hanne continues to train and sail out of Shilshole Bay Marina. And despite her incredibly busy schedule, she still finds time for fans and to help out in one of the places that helped her become the sailor she is today.

GigHarborLivingLocal.com

“I still see my old coaches and young sailors that look up to me. I always love giving back to my community, and when I grew up sailors did that for me, I want to do the same for them,” she said.

Hanne has accomplished many of the goals she set for herself at a young age and continues to strive for her ultimate goal of making the U.S. Olympic team. She was third in line for the Rio games, and just missing out is a motivator to come out on top as this opportunity only comes around every four years.

You can follow Hanne’s journey on her website WeaverSailing.com. A lifetime of training for a chance to compete in one race; something very few are willing to put the work into but not Gig Harbor’s Hanne Weaver, your local Olympic hopeful.

42

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ATHLETE OF

BY PATTY HUTCHENS

SHAYE DIMATTEO Gig Harbor High School

A

freshman at Gig Harbor High School, 14-year-old Shaye DiMatteo is a dedicated student and athlete. She has been on the honor roll through middle school and continues that in her first year of high school. And when it comes to diving, Shaye’s commitment has already paid off, showing promise for an amazing career ahead of her.

“I was previously a gymnast, which helped me transition to dive,” says Shaye, who in her first year of diving in the WIAA (Washington Interscholastic Activities Association), placed fourth overall at the Division 3A State Finals.

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2018 was the first year Shaye took part in the USA Diving competitions, and she finished strong, placing in the top 15 for the 14-to-15year age group in the platform event at the Zone E Championship—a national qualifier championship composed of 12 states from the Northwest and Midwest regions.

With a lot of time to still decide on posthigh school plans, Shaye is certain she would like to continue to dive in college. But as she pursues her athletics, she says she is primarily focused on academics. “My only plan for the time being is to continue working hard on my studies,” she says.

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There are a few areas of study that interest her, including serving in the United States Air Force or pursuing a career in the medical field. “These potential careers interest me because I love helping people and making a difference in the world,” she says.

Shaye shares that one of the biggest challenges she continues to face in diving is overcoming the mental blocks. “They are difficult to break,” she says. “But once I realized that my coach won’t let me do anything that could potentially harm me, they have become much easier to overcome.”

When it comes to diving, Shaye says she enjoys the relationships she builds with her teammates and other divers. “My team is like a family to me.”

At just 14 years of age, Shaye has already learned an important life lesson that will help her have continued success on her journey through life.

“I’ve learned throughout my athletic career that to go far in anything—sports, school, social life—you need to be willing to put in all of your effort.”

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Open 7 Days A Week

HISTORIC BOATYARD PROVIDES TANGIBLE LINK THE PEOPLE AND HERITAGE OF THE GIG HARBOR WATERFRONT

BY DAN AZNOFF PHOTOS COURTESY OF SHAUN O'BERRY AND GIG HARBOR BOATSHOP

A

bout a dozen brave souls recently braved the cold night and frigid waters along shoreline of Gig Harbor to lie belly down in the mud as part of the effort to salvage steel for a second set of tracks to restore the marine railway that helped transport commercial fishing boats for one of the last commercial shipyards on the West Coast.

Estuary Park. “We (the foundation) are dedicated to preserving the traditional uses of one of the most wonderful parts of our community that make Gig Harbor truly unique.”

The nonprofit was created after residents realized the working waterfront that has supported the community for more than a century was being replaced by high-end residential developments.

Volunteers from the nonprofit Gig Harbor Boatyard Foundation got their hands, arms, legs and most of their bodies dirty to help preserve the rich heritage of boatbuilding, repair and commercial fishing that has become synonymous with the waterfront community.

Residents of the community voted to tax themselves to preserve the waterfront as a self-sustaining workplace that could enrich the community through educational programs focused on the commercial fishing fleet.

“This is what we do. It’s what we’re all about,” explained Allison Bujacich, the community development director for the 501c3 located in the Eddon Boatyard on Harborview Drive, a few boat lengths away from the Austin

GigHarborLivingLocal.com

“There is something here for everybody,” Bujacich said proudly. The activities range from workshops on how to varnish and wood bending

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Story time! Gather around!

“TECHNOLOGY AND SCREEN TIME A RE NO SUBSTITUTE FOR STORIES FROM THE PEOPLE WHO HAVE LIVED THE ADVENTURE." for wooden hulls to musical performances that feature local artists.

Other course offerings include Useful Knots 101 and Diesel Engine Maintenance.

One of the most popular, Bujacich said, is the weekend family boatbuilding workshop that guides family members through the steps needed to launch their own seaworthy skiff.

“Families complete the workshop with a boat they can enjoy together for many years to come,” the director said with a wide smile. “It is a thrill to watch three generations, and sometimes four, come together to build something tangible they will be able to enjoy as a family in the same way families in our community have come together for many years.”

Guy Hoppen, the founding director of the nonprofit board, remembered being inspired to take action in 2003 when he saw an artist’s rendering of the waterfront that illustrated high-end residential developments squeezing out the boatyard.

“I was moved to take action when I read an article in the local newspaper that described plans for our waterfront that would have eliminated the

GigHarborLivingLocal.com

Eddon Boatyard,” Hoppen told Living Local. “The boatyard is at the heart of connecting people to the waterfront.”

For families that do not have an entire weekend to dedicate to building their own boat, Bujacich said would-be sailors can set out at the helm of their own craft after being fitted for lifejackets and only a few minutes of instruction. The fleet of watercraft available to rent at the boatyard includes two electric-powered boats, two row boats and a classic Willits Brothers canoe. Many of the boats can be rented for as little as $10 per hour.

The boatyard has expanded its offerings to the community to include internships for high school credit and paid positions for students enrolled at local colleges. The schedule includes classes on diesel repair and the popular children’s story hour where young people gather to hear stories read by fishermen based in the harbor.

“Technology and screen time are no substitute for stories from the people who have lived the adventure,” said Bujacich. “We are surrounded in this place by the history of the people who have lived and worked these sacred grounds.”

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Some offerings, including a seminar on nautical navigation for women, have become so popular the foundation has stopped advertising some of the courses.

The mother of two small children emphasized the Eddon Boatyard is not a museum. It is base for a fleet of commercial fishing boats and a living link to the history of the waterfront. The boatyard is also home to the 63-foot 1926 Skanzie fishing boat Veteran as well as the temporary home to some vintage Chris-Craft mahogany runabouts currently being restored as part of a maritime mentor program.

Rides on the restored fishing boat provide one of the few sources of revenue for the nonprofit organization. Bujacich said passengers have shared their own experiences of fishing the waters of the Sound. Others have recounted their own memories of being part of the crew on the Skanzie.

The Eddon Boatyard is as much as much a part of the rich history of Gig Harbor as the seals and sea gulls that thrive in the waters of the busy harbor.

But it took volunteers from the Gig Harbor Boatyard Foundation to turn the memories and artifacts from almost 100 years ago into a living, breathing part of the community to enrich the lives of the next generation of residents who have made Gig Harbor their home.

Dan Aznoff is a freelance writer based in Mukilteo, Washington. He was a finalist for a Pulitzer Prize for his coverage of the toxic waste crisis and has received acclamation for his work regarding sustainable energy. He is the author of three books that document colorful periods of history in Washington. He can be reached at directly da@dajournalist.com.

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“THERE IS SOMETHING HERE FOR EVERYBODY,� BUJACICH SAID PROUDLY. THE ACTIVITIES RANGE FROM WORKSHOPS ON HOW TO VARNISH AND WOOD BENDING FOR WOODEN HULLS TO MUSICAL PERFORMANCES THAT FEATURE LOCAL ARTISTS. OTHER COURSE OFFERINGS INCLUDE USEFUL KNOTS 101 AND DIESEL ENGINE MAINTENANCE.

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Enriching Cultural and Economic Vitality

Gig Harbor Film Festival: Educating, Entertaining and Inspiring

BY JILLIAN CHANDLER PHOTOS BY TOM COLLINS

Gig Harbor Film Festival 3006 Judson Street #102 Gig Harbor, Washington 98335 253.851.3456 GigHarborFilm.org

MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR THE 72 HOUR FILMMAKING COMPETITION IN MARCH WITH REGISTRATION OPENING JANUARY 2019. THIS IS A CHANCE FOR FILMMAKERS TO CREATE AND COMPLETE A FILM IN JUST 72 HOURS, WITH SCREENING OF THE FILMS TO FOLLOW.

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ince 2007, Gig Harbor Film Festival’s mission has been to cultivate a community of filmmakers and film lovers who celebrate the power of the cinematic arts to educate, entertain and inspire.

Through events such as the annual Gig Harbor Film Festival, 72 Hour Filmmaking Competition, Annual Summer Fundraiser and Monthly Movie Nights, the Gig Harbor Film Festival has continued to enrich local community life—for more than a decade—by making unique film and social experiences accessible for all. Looking to the future, “We’re excited about expanding further with programs that engage local youth,” says Melanie Kerr, communications coordinator. “It’s very rewarding to give young people new opportunities to learn, grow and express themselves creatively.”

Gig Harbor Film Festival is currently working with local Peninsula School District media arts teachers and other community partners to create a rewarding and fun summer Youth Filmmaking Camp in hopes to empower students to tap into their imaginations and express their creative voices. They currently have a Crowfunding campaign, in which they hope to raise $20,000 for the summer camp, with contributions to be matched by an anonymous donor.

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Executive Director Jenny Wellman manages the operations of the organization seamlessly, from the big-picture planning to the most minute—and countless—details. “And she tackles it all with masterful skill and professionalism,” adds Melanie. The organization would not be possible without Jenny, in addition to the dedicated volunteer board of directors (who contribute their time, skills and enthusiasm) and devoted team of staff and volunteers who work endlessly to make GHFF the incredible organization that it is.

“As a nonprofit, we rely heavily on the support of our generous sponsors and donors. We could not do what we do without them,” Melanie says.

The three-day Gig Harbor Film Festival is a premier event held each fall and is host to more than 80 visiting filmmakers, screening more than 100 films of various genres at the luxurious, state-of-the-art Galaxy Theatre in Uptown. As the festival continues to emerge as one of the top destinations on the independent film festival circuit thanks to the unwavering local hospitality, in addition to enjoying the many films, festival goers have the opportunity to attend Q&A sessions with the filmmakers and special festival parties and events.

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GHFF was recently awarded a Top 100 Best Reviewed Film Festivals ranking—out of approximately 2,500 film festivals open for submissions— on FilmFreeway. “This ranking is especially rewarding because it came from our filmmakers, proving our priority on world-class hospitality has not gone unnoticed,” says Melanie.

The GHFF Monthly Movie Nights are offered on the last Wednesday of every month (except for December) starting at 6:30pm at the Galaxy Theatre.

Mark your calendars for the 72 Hour Filmmaking Competition in March with registration opening January 2019. This is a chance for filmmakers to create and complete a film in just 72 hours, with screening of the films to follow. Orientation will be held on March 9, filming on March 14 through 17 and the screening on March 24 at the IMAX. For more information about the competition, visit GigHarborFilm.org.

Whether you're a film buff or filmmaker, you'll find what you are looking for thanks to Gig Harbor Film Festival. You’ll be engaged, entertained and inspired!

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HOMETOWN

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Modern and efficient tree removal equipment that will make your Gig Harbor area tree removal job go quickly and efficiently. Because of this advantage, your tree removal project will be completed in half the time of competitor companies. Zero impact to your property, their crews provide exceptional cleanup service. Call them today for a free estimate!

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Hey, what is the W on the side of my oil?

Most people think that the W in 5W-30 is for ‘weight,’ but no! It’s for ‘winter.’ This is what is called a multi-viscosity oil. The W then refers to the winter weight of the oil. 5W-30 oil will act like 5 weight oil at 20°F but acts like 30 weight oil when warmed up. The higher the number, the thicker the oil.

New car owner’s manuals have a range of temperature for each oil grade. Climates that don’t get colder than 20°F can run 10W-30, but if you’re going skiing or taking an arctic trip, 5W-30 is more appropriate.

Because of fuel economy challenges, many manufacturers are designing their engines to run on thin oil: 0W-20, 5W-20, etc. If you’ve ever poured 0W-20 oil, it comes out like water. In those cases, synthetic oil is mandatory.

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Not all synthetics are created equal. Check the specification in your owner’s manual and make sure the oil you’re getting matches.

Some oils play games with “meets manufacturers spec” by saying “meets performance spec or endurance spec.” Beware of discount oil services. Don’t let them use conventional oil when synthetic is required.

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CUSTOM PRINTS NW

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Gig Harbor’s premier shop for screen printing, embroidery, signs and promotional items.

Call or email for a free design consultation today, by appointment only. When you need orders on time and looking great, contact Custom Prints NW! Gig Harbor—2801 Hollycroft St. 253.225.7725 Jessica@CustomPrintsNW.com CustomPrintsNW.com

Our approach is to discover a design that reflects you and your way of living. We are a full service design company that can satisfy your architectural and building needs for residential and commercial products from concept through turnkey delivery.

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They understand the disruption an auto accident can cause in your life. This is why they offer one-stop shopping for vehicle repair, whether it’s a door ding, fender bender or major collision. Their claims experts communicate with insurers, helping you get back on the road.

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Save time and let them do the booking for you.

Cruise Planners is a local travel company that can assist you with all types of travel - cruises, land based travel and Safari adventures. They are here for their clients from the first call until the return of your trip.

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They are a specialty business offering certified pilates, comprehensive training, post-rehabilitative training and nutritional programming. The equipment based studio, through professional instruction, structures programming around each individual. Athletic and functional health, sports conditioning and rehabilitative continuance are worked with via one-on-one or duet sessions. Veteran instructors with a minimum of 10 years in the field offer multiple training options.

Gig Harbor —5727 Baker Way NW, Ste 203 253.225.3469 | EdgePilatesStudio.com heather@edgepilatesstudio.com

At Harbor View Dentistry, they are a neighborhood dental office in the heart of downtown Gig Harbor where they spend the time and energy to get to know YOU as a person while providing state-of-the-art dental care. They do this simply because they care and see you as a part of their family. If you are looking for friendly quality dentistry at a fair price, you will like it there. As always, they are accepting new patients!

Gig Harbor—3220 Uddenberg Lane, Suite 6 253.858.2560 | HarborViewDentistry.com f Harbor View Dentistry

VALONA PAINTING COMPANY

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Locally owned and operated by Tracy Hacklin Dennis (MLO-94066) with 16 years of experience! They provide the personalized attention you deserve. Their clients aren’t just customers, they’re friends and neighbors. VA Home loan specialist, Jumbo, Purchase, Refi, 2nd home and Non-Owner, get your FREE no-obligation quote.

Gig Harbor—7700 Pioneer Way #202 253.224.1408 | AnchorBayMtg.com f/anchorbaymtg

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Superior service at a fair price! Carpet Care Northwest uses premium cleaning agents in conjunction with state-of-the-art truck mounted steam cleaning systems to achieve superior results for their customers. They also offer upholstery cleaning, carpet stretching, repairs and tile and grout cleaning. Call them today! Estimates and advice are always free, and don’t forget your satisfaction is guaranteed!

Phone 253.874.4377 carpetcarenw@comcast.net CarpetCareNW.com

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They are your paint and specialty contractors that provide not only interior and exterior paint services, but also drywall repair, wood work and wood repair, stain and varnish services, furniture refinishing and floor coatings. Whether your needs are residential or commercial, call them today! Licensed, bonded and insured. VALONAPC853MS. andrew@valonapainting.com 253.303.0359 | C: 253.985.0342

Looking to start a new business? Already own one? American Family Insurance has great coverages for great rates for your small business. Tim Lopez Agency is part of the Gig Harbor community. They help the business owner have peace of mind to know they have the coverage they need to protect their dreams.

Gig Harbor—7512 Stanich Lane Unit 2 253.858.7200 | Fax: 253.858.7700 TRLopez.com f/TimothyLopezAgency

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Do Your Homework

Know what your fitness or nutrition coach’s credentials really mean

By Kenny Markwardt, CSCS

YOU MAY HAVE READ MY RECENT ARTICLE REGARDING THE IMPORTANCE OF FINDING A COACH to help you achieve your fitness and nutrition goals. But did you know that the fitness and nutrition industry is one of the worst when it comes to qualifications?

Right, and that mindset and situation is exactly how we’ve gotten to the place we are in. Trusting that a trainer or coach knows what they are doing has gotten a whole lot of people hurt. An exercise professional should lie on the continuum of health and wellness professionals, not be an outlier.

Literally, in less than a few hours, you could look up and find an online certification, skim through their material, pass their online test and call yourself a trainer. You could buy insurance and hang up the sign on your personal training studio by this afternoon.

Where an orthopedic surgeon makes repairs to the body via surgery and manually returning things back to the way they should be, a physical therapist establishes corrective movements and manual therapy externally to restore proper range of motion and pain-free function to those joints. A qualified exercise professional should continue that path and strengthen those parts, allowing them to be used optimally and prevent further injury.

Compare that to our brothers and sisters in body mechanics and physical training. Physical therapists require three years of specialized school in addition to their initial college degree. Chiropractors are similar.

Outside the context of rehabilitation, this continuum still exists, but the starting point differs. In my field, we should be evaluating “healthy” people to make sure they are in fact moving in ways that will provide them the best vehicle for success long term, fixing the things that fall within our scope of

You may be thinking to yourself, “Yeah, but those are medical professionals, trainers are just trainers.”

H E A LT H Y T I P

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XXX UNDERSTAND THAT NOT ALL FITNESS AND NUTRITION COACHES ARE EQUAL, THAT IT’S UP TO YOU DO TO YOUR HOMEWORK, AND THAT IT’S TIME TO DEMAND MORE FROM THE PEOPLE IN THIS INDUSTRY.

Gig Harbor Chiropractic & Massage www.GigHarborWellness.com

Dr. Greg Messer Dr. Keri Messer practice, like limited range of motion, strength imbalances and glaring weaknesses, then leading a person down the path toward their best physical version of themselves.

Unfortunately the state of affairs and regulation within fitness and nutrition does not allow for the professional coach to be differentiated from the trainer. The online trained coach is seen on the same plane as the pro who has been through schooling and has legitimate credentials.

How are you as the consumer supposed to navigate that landscape to ensure you don’t end up in the wrong hands? You just need to do your homework.

If you are interested in hiring a fitness or nutrition coach, you should: • Interview them, ask them questions. You’ll get a feel.

• Do your research on their credentials. Just look up the letters or credentials they have listed on their website.

• Do your research on their experience. You don’t want to be their crash-test dummy. Make sure they’ve done this before.

• Ask around. Reputations can tell you a lot. *A quick note on credentials, certifications,

seminars, etc. There are a ton of fantastic weekend certifications out there. That’s somewhat the nature of this industry. These just require an objective eye. Understand that there are two sides to that story. One side is that they spent about 16 hours learning something that they may or may not use as a tool. That’s good.

The other side is that it was really only 16 hours and that one of those should really just be one of their tools. I tend to be skeptical of the onetrick ponies, where they’ve only got a series of certifications from one body. It’s important to be well rounded and know other approaches to fitness.

On a similar note, another way to look at this industry is as a self-guided post-graduate program. Someone who has taken a class on Shakespeare does not mean they are qualified to instruct you on how to be a playwright.

However, if someone took the initiative to say, “Hey, there really isn’t an established way to do that, so I’m going to do it on my own by taking as many courses and reading as many books as I can,” that’d be someone you might look to, respect and value their opinion.

The takeaway from all of this is to understand that not all fitness and nutrition coaches are equal, that it’s up to you do to your homework, and that it’s time to demand more from the people in this industry.

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253.857.6500

11430 51st Ave NW Ste 101A Gig Harbor, WA 98332

f gigharborchiropractic&massage Visit our website to take advantage of our New Patient Special!

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

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recent study conducted by Allergan, the pharmaceutical company that produces Botox, found that 100 percent of women, aged 26 to 55, are aware of Botox Cosmetic. It’s pretty fascinating when you think about the fact that every single woman in that age group is aware of a single drug that is used to treat wrinkles. What many of the women in that same group did not know, however, is how the drug works, how much it costs, how long it lasts and what to expect during a Botox treatment.

We answer your most asked questions about Botox

Many women, and men, are surprised to find how simple, quick and easy a Botox treatment is. Below we answer some of the most frequently asked questions.

BY BRI WILLIAMS, RN, BSN

How exactly does Botox work?

Botox works by blocking the synapse that sends the message from the nerve to the muscle to contract. Because that communication circuit has been broken, the injected muscle is not able to contract, which in turn causes the wrinkles to relax and soften. Over the next three to four months, new nerve connections are naturally created within the treatment area, and the muscle slowly gets movement back.

Are Botox treatments painful?

Many women, and men, are surprised to find how simple, quick and easy a Botox treatment is.

No. A very small needle is used to inject Botox.

Many clients find the treatment to be very well tolerated and do not experience any discomfort.

A typical treatment only takes a few minutes and involves superficial injections of the Botox into the desired treatment area. Numbing cream can be applied prior to your treatment if discomfort is a concern.

How long does Botox last?

Botox takes two to 14 days to become effective and lasts three to four months on average. Many clients find that with continued treatments they can go longer between appointments.

Is there any social downtime after Botox injections?

No. Most clients leave the office with small bumps at the injection sites, and they go away in 10 to 15 minutes. It is possible that you could get a small bruise, but unlikely. Many clients do their treatment on their lunch break and return to work immediately. You need to avoid vigorous exercise the day of your treatment, and do not massage your face for eight to 12 hours after your treatment

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(use very gentle pressure while washing your face).

How much does Botox cost?

The price of Botox varies from practice to practice.

On average Botox is $11 per unit. The amount of Botox a person needs also varies from person to person. Generally, the area between the eyebrows (frown lines) requires 20 units, the forehead 10 to 12 units and the crow’s feet 12 units/side. Men typically need more Botox than women to have the same effect. Botox can also be used in other areas of the face. Consult with your aesthetic provider to discuss other common treatment areas.

Is Botox safe?

Botox Cosmetic received FDA approval in 2002 and is approved for use in over 75 countries. There have been more than 500 peer-reviewed articles in scientific and medical journals, and it is the most widely researched and studied treatment of its kind. There were over 7 million Botox Cosmetic treatments performed last year alone, and the medical community considers it to be low risk and safe.

When done conservatively and dosed appropriately, Botox can help to soften wrinkles and prevent deep lines from forming, without making you look unnatural or frozen. Consult your aesthetic provider to discuss if Botox Cosmetic is right for you, and learn how you can look refreshed, youthful and rested.

Mosquito Fleet Winery Your Local Award Winning Boutique Winery

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Only 20 minutes away on Hood Canal in Belfair Tasting Room 21 NE Old Belfair Hwy Saturdays 12 - 5 Sundays 12 - 4

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Mariel C. Kraus, OTR/L LSVT-Big, CAPS-CGA

253-514-6842

5775 Soundview Drive Suite A-103 Gig Harbor, WA 98335

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8 TOOLS TO REDUCE STIGMA ABOUT HEARING LOSS HELPFUL HINTS FROM HEAR FOR LIFE AUDIOLOGY

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tigma exists in your external environment, but it also manifests from inside of you in the messages that you tell yourself.

Consider making changes in your life to reduce stigma by committing to at least one of the following tools: 1. Take responsibility for your hearing loss.

Accept your hearing loss. Resist the urge to deny it. In most cases, your hearing loss is not the secret you think it is. Commit to wearing your hearing aids every day to hear better.

Visit your audiologist for adjustments to ensure that your devices work well.

2. Create and adopt new messages about your hearing loss. Get a better understanding of how internal and external stigma manifests in your life. Which voices in your head belong to you—and which ones belong to other people? Focus on what you can control. If you feel “less” because of your hearing loss, try changing “I can’t” statements to “I can.”

Accept that a hearing loss is one part of you— but not all of who you are.

3. Make a list of difficult listening situations.

Reflect on each day of the week. Make a list of challenging listening situations at home, work and public places. Be specific. Note what you feel—uncomfortable, vulnerable, embarrassed or ashamed.

4. Talk about your hearing loss. Your family, friends and co-workers might not know about your challenges with hearing speech clearly. It takes courage to accept your hearing loss and no small amount of bravery to talk about it. Plan what you want to say. Consider practicing out loud with someone you trust.

Kay Frallic, M.A., Audiologist

5. Ask for accommodations. Technology is ever changing. Educate yourself about assistive listening devices and request what you need. Other people may not know what is appropriate for your condition. Become the expert, then ask.

6. Communicate effectively. How you handle your hearing loss will have a direct impact on the people you closely and regularly interact

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Teach the people in your life how to best communicate with you so that you can hear clearly. Y our hearing difficulties can be as challenging for them as they are for you. with. Teach the people in your life how to best communicate with you so that you can hear clearly. Your hearing difficulties can be as challenging for them as they are for you. For example, remind them to face you when they speak. Ask speakers to repeat their point in a different way. Remember, humor goes a long way to increase comfort for everyone.

7. Connect with others who also have hearing loss. People who live with hearing loss understand the challenges and how to overcome them. Connect with other people in your life who also have hearing loss. This can help you be yourself and learn from others who understand the impact of living with hearing loss.

8. Set realistic goals. Living well with hearing loss requires change and adaptability. Change happens slowly and requires commitment.

Make a commitment to a meaningful and achievable goal.

Article summarized by permission from The Hearing Journal, September 2018.

CHEMOTHERAPY Calming and soothing the symptoms

BY DARCIE MILLER, OWNER, LIGHT IN BALANCE REFLEXOLOGY

A Holistic approach to improved health

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or those who are receiving chemotherapy, the side effects are not only unpleasant, there are many and vary from person to person.

Some of those effects are hair loss, nausea, fatigue, depression, loss of appetite, chronic pain, insomnia, peeling skin, skin rashes and a weakened immune system. Your doctors can prescribe certain medications to help alleviate some of the symptoms.

There are other therapies that can help alleviate some of your symptoms, and when combined with medications and therapy prescribed by your medical team, can have an even greater impact on treating your symptoms.

It is important to note that complementary therapies are different from alternative therapies. Alternative therapies are used in place of chemotherapy, while complementary therapies offer comfort and support for symptoms you may be experiencing during your chemotherapy.

Sound therapy with crystal and Tibetan bowls has been proven to relax, calm and soothe the nervous system, bringing a sense of peace.

Our bodies are made up of approximately 70 percent water and 30 percent minerals.

Vibrations from the bowls can help reset balance and harmony within the body.

Reflexology can also help with calming and relaxing your body, reset and balance

the nervous system and boost the immune system. A trained and licensed reflexologist will apply gentle pressure to specific points in the feet, hands or ears. If your feet are too tender or sore from the effects of the chemotherapy, specific points in your ears and hands can be reflexed to achieve the same balance and harmony within the body.

Reiki is a simple, natural and safe method of hands-on spiritual healing, where hands are placed on or just above the client’s body. Reiki allows you to relax and clear your mind and has been effective in helping virtually every known illness and malady. Receiving Reiki has been proven to help relieve side effects and help promote recovery.

Available Sessions: • • • • • • • • •

Reflexology Reiki Reiki Training, for Kids Ages 5-12 Reiki Training, All Levels Continuing Education Credits Vibrational Sound Energy Conscious Breathing Classes Vocal Toning Private Tibetan Bowl Healing

Meditation has also been proven to help alleviate symptoms and can be done anywhere at anytime.

All of these complementary therapies can help alleviate chronic pain, nausea, depression, insomnia and anxiety, boost your immune system and bring your body into balance or homeostasis. Once the body is in this state it can begin to recover. Incorporating one or more of these therapies with your current medical care can add more quality to your life as you go through chemotherapy and recover from the side effects.

You are a warrior, and you are not alone.

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Darcie Miller 253-720-1400 6625 Wagner Way Suite 260B Gig Harbor, WA 98335 darcie@lightinbalance.com www.lightinbalance.com

Complete Specialty Care Center

So Fresh and Clean:

for the whole family!

B

SKINCARE FOR NEWBORNS

BY JULIE YEH, MD, FAAP, PEDIATRICS NORTHWEST ringing a newborn home for the first time is one of the happiest moments for new parents. But it can also be overwhelming, even frightening. There are so many questions that can only be answered through experience: How much should my baby eat? How often should I change him? How long will she sleep?

Bathing and taking care of your baby’s skin undoubtedly falls somewhere on this list. While delicate, a newborn’s skin actually does not require much maintenance. Rule of thumb: Less is more. The following tips will help you keep your baby comfortable and healthy.

First few weeks You may notice peeling skin. This can be expected since your little one has been soaking in your belly for months. Before the belly button cord falls off, simply use a towel or sponge to gently cleanse your baby—that’s all that is needed. The belly button cord usually falls off in the first one to three weeks.

Leaving the belly button cord behind

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Once the belly button cord falls off, bathe your baby as needed, based on how much she sweats and spits up. Generally, I recommend a bath every few days. Babies do not need daily baths at this time and may end up with dry skin if bathed too frequent.

Baby skincare products There is a dizzyingly large variety of skincare products, just like the number of strollers and cribs you’ve already had to navigate. It is difficult to say whether your baby will have skin sensitivities. Typically, products without added scents or colors tend to be less irritating, so look for these.

Other common skin concerns your newborn may experience include: • Baby acne is small red bumps or pimples that can appear anywhere on the face. It is likely an inflammatory response to maternal hormones and should self-resolve after a few months.

Gently clean only as needed.

• Cradle cap appears as yellowish flakes on the scalp but may spread down to the eyebrows and ears. Washing baby’s hair with a mild shampoo

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may help remove the flakes, but be careful to avoid getting it in his eyes! If the flakes seem to be more stubborn, using a natural oil (such as olive oil) or a thick moisturizer (such as Vaseline) along with brushing with a soft toothbrush can help lift them.

• Milia appears as small white or off-white dots on the nose or elsewhere on the face. It is the result of natural secretions on the surface of baby’s skin and will self-resolve in the first few weeks.

These tips should help you care for your newborn’s skin so that you can focus on enjoying skin-to-skin snuggles.

Other resources: HealthyChildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/ bathing-skin-care/Pages/Your-Newborns-SkinBirthmarks-and-Rashes.aspx HealthyChildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/ bathing-skin-care/Pages/Cradle-Cap.aspx HealthyChildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/ bathing-skin-care/Pages/Bathing-Your-Newborn. aspx

You’re More than just a Smile!

Happy

EXCELLENCE IN DENTISTRY WITH DR. DEBRA ENNEKING, D.D.S.

BY LISA DE RECAT | PHOTO BY

Holidays

DEBRA & ENK ENNEKING

M

r. Charles M. Schulz, creator of “The Peanuts” comic strip, brilliantly, said: “Christmas is doing a little something extra for someone.”

Simple, yet lovely. We like to think that doing that extra something for someone also includes the extra something just for you. It may seem a little selfish, but it’s not. Your loved ones rely on you to take the best care of yourself because you are indispensable to them. That includes your dental health.

It is odd to think that the care of your teeth has such a profound effect on the rest of your body, but yet, it does. Poor dental health is nothing to ignore.

It can have an unfortunate and serious domino effect that can not only compromise the beauty of your smile but can also diminish the quality of your life. Your mouth is the window to the rest of your body. Oral cancer, reflux, diabetes, breathing disorders, cardiovascular and inflammation are some of the issues that can be detected during your routine dental exams. Take good care of yourself.

Do that little extra something just for you. You know what to do! Brush and floss twice daily, avoid sugary foods, don’t smoke, eat nutritionally based foods, call your mother and, most importantly, call Dr. Debra Enneking for your imperative bi-annual checkup.

Dr. Debra Enneking at Wollochet Dental Arts wants to see you smiling and feeling great for the rest of your life. Your optimal health is her optimal goal. Dr. Enneking is not only a gifted dentist but also a remarkable artist in perfecting the beauty of your smile.

We all have enough worries in life; don’t let your dental health become one of them. When you entrust Dr. Enneking and her exceptional staff with your oral health, you will know you have happily one less thing to worry about. Wollochet Dental Art’s state-of-the-art dental office provides you with the ultimate in sophistication and excellence in dentistry today. They are in possession of the most technologically advanced dental equipment available to you.

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Your smile is the light that illuminates your face and communicates the innermost you to the world. Don’t compromise this amazing gift with sub-par dental care. Blessings to you and yours this holiday season and beyond.

Wollochet Dental Arts is located at 6504 Wollochet Drive NW, Gig Harbor, Washington 98335. Dr. Debra Enneking can be reached at debraennekingdds. com or 253.858.5869.

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6504 Wollochet Dr NW | Gig Harbor, WA 98335 debraennekingdds.com | (253) 858-5869

Fitness Challenges

Equal Lifelong

Changes

I

f fitness challenges create lifelong changes, why do we find the same people joining these challenges time after time?

When thinking of a fitness challenge, most believe it to be a competitive drive of will against other competitors. The reality, however, is it’s a competition within themselves. When joining a fitness challenge, one typically sacrifices certain food cravings, favorite treats and possibly even social situations to stay “on top.” Workouts tend to be “brutal,” maintaining the mindset that whatever needs to be done can be done to get to the ultimate goal. But then, what? With the challenge complete, one may have gained achievements of strength, possibly weight loss, but what has been given up in the process? And, more importantly, are these changes sustainable over time?

Think of today’s “yo-yo” dieting—a most popular cliché that is pertaining to a society of people continuing to entertain one diet or fitness challenge after another, only to achieve short-term results. Quick weight loss is great, at first. Building muscle is great, if it’s sustainable. Eating better is great, if it makes sense with your lifestyle. Of course, the error in all of these lies in the fact that the body is ultimately not changing long term. Instead of challenging our bodies to truly change, one changes for a time to go back to where they started.

Every time one begins a new challenge, thoughts of that one being the life changer occurs. More often than not, whether it is two weeks, two months or two years, one usually diverts back to right where they were. Whether weight loss, muscle gain, mental awareness or a number of other goals are present, lifelong change can only occur with a shift in approach.

IT’S ALL IN THE APPROACH

BY JENNIFER WIGGLESWORTH

How does one begin to shift their approach when society’s pressure dictates quick fixes? In order to re-focus one’s attention on long term, one must retrain the brain to think long term. Although seemingly unnatural initially, developing new skills and “listening” to the body will provide the future gains one desires.

Rather than opting for a quick fitness and/or weight challenge that promises quick results, focus on ways to change things simply and slowly. For example, instead of working out two times a day, seven days a week on a strict macro-based diet, for eight weeks, take a look at your lifestyle. Does weighing out everything one eats and working out multiple times a day fit into your current life schedule? Is it practical to achieve ultimate goals within an eight-week time frame? If not, rethink it. Maybe work out once a day, three to five days a week, over the course of a year, on a health-focused eating plan, instead.

There are a multitude of options. The point lies within shifting the mindset to think long term and setting goals that make sense with one’s personal lifestyle.

Fitness challenges can create lifelong changes. The operative is within the approach. The good news is everyone gets to decide that for themselves—quick fix now for short-term results or re-focused approach for long-term gains. It’s like we say in barre, “Your body. Your workout. Your change.”

Rather than opting for a quick fitness and/or weight challenge that promises quick results, focus on ways to change things simply and slowly.

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My MS Coping with multiple sclerosis has reflected the rest of my life

BY DAN AZNOFF

M

y first impulse was to slug the doctor.

Not because he had just diagnosed me with the chronic disease known as multiple sclerosis. It was his bedside manner and an apparent lack of compassion.

My neurologist was probably being practical when he suggested that my wife and I stop on our way home to buy a cane and insisted that we purchase as much life insurance as possible “while I still could.”

This could not be happening to me. Not now. I had just started to live my dream. Susan and I had two beautiful children. We had just completed the construction of the home of our dreams nestled in the woods.

I can remember carrying my infant son down the stairs and holding the rail to steady myself from what I assumed was pure exhaustion. I needed two hands to grasp the container as I poured milk into his bottle. But it was the trip back up the stairs (pun intended) that worried me most. I remember literally crawling up the stairs to keep my infant son and his bottle above the carpet.

After Joshua was fed and safely tucked back into bed, I found my way back under the covers. It was not cold, but my body shivered as if I were standing outside naked in a snowstorm.

After I reluctantly admitted that something was wrong, Susan (as she has done a million times since) jumped into action. In a time before the Internet, she spent Sunday researching doctors and gathered information to cope with my unknown ailment.

By the time we got home from the doctor on that Monday morning, she had a dietary regiment that eliminated processed foods, reduced carbs and practically eliminated all sugar. Susan also ended my “pity party” by urging me take an active role in protecting my health for the sake of our family.

Multiple sclerosis is a disease that attacks the central nervous system by blocking messages from the brain to every part of your body. It can cause vision problems, muscle weakness, issues with coordination, numbness and lapses with memory.

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However, I seemed to be an exception to the rule. The vast majority of individuals diagnosed with MS are women. Most of these women spend their youth in areas in higher longitudes, like the Pacific Northwest, the upper Midwest or Scandinavian countries. My wife and I both grew up in Southern California. We did not move to Washington until I was 25. Our son was born when I was 30.

Doctors diagnosed me with the relapsing/remitting form of MS, which meant my body would suffer exacerbations and (theoretically) get back about 80 percent of the senses and capabilities that had been lost, presumably over two or three weeks. When my symptoms subsided after my first episode, I was left with zero balance and had lost my ability to type. The senses that disappeared came back very slowly.

My writing for the past 30-plus years has been done with two-finger, hunt-and-peck. The running joke has been that I have the ability to type at 24 words per minute, per finger.

The one thing that was clear from the start is that MS impacts each person differently. For me, my left side was left completely numb, and my slurred speech made many people presume I had imbibed in too much alcohol.

Reality struck over the next few years after I was convinced to sell my beloved bicycle and abandon my routine of playing tennis three to four times per week. I had made my way through college playing competitive tennis, so it was a major blow when I finally agreed to sell my rackets at a garage sale. (I did keep my first racket. There is only so much one person can be asked to sacrifice.)

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At first, I tried to hide my physical limitations from employers and colleagues. But I have since learned to accept my situation as the new normal. Friends accept the fact that I may not be able to join them on aggressive treks, but I can still enjoy a relaxed stroll.

We love to play games in our house, so I have been relieved of my turn to shuffle a deck of cards or pick up small tokens from a smooth surface.

Over the first several years, my exacerbations hit me every four years like clockwork. Usually during times of high stress, like when I started a new job, when relatives flew in to celebrate my son’s Bar Mitzvah and when my wife surprised me by flying in my buddies from college to celebrate my 40th birthday.

Gratefully, multiple sclerosis has been on the cutting edge of medical research. I was selected by lottery to receive the first medication available. However, my insurance company was hesitant to cover the cost of the first medication that promised to reduce the frequency and severity of exacerbations. It took my doctor to get on the phone with the insurance company to explain they could choose between covering the cost of the injections or be forced to pay for repeated expensive trips to the emergency room.

I am still not sure how my lovely wife maintained her demeanor a few years later when a representative from the insurance company made the decision to no longer cover the $6,500 monthly cost of my medication because I had not had an episode. Calmly and logically, she explained to the paper-pusher that the medication could be responsible for the lack of relapses.

My coverage was renewed.

Over the years, my doctors have prescribed three separate injectable medications for me.

I’ve been on Copaxone since 1999 after a major exacerbation left me unable to walk. Despite the temporary disability, I refused to buy a

This could not be happening to me. Not now. I had just started to live my dream.

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The purpose of life is to contribute in some way to making things better.

- Robert f. Kennedy

Gratefully, multiple sclerosis has been on the cutting edge of medical research.

I was selected by lottery to receive the first medication available. cane. But I did use an old baseball bat to help me get around the house.

Truth is, I am luckier than most. Unlike most MS sufferers, I am still able to drive. I am not able to work 40 hours every week, but I am still able to maintain a major portion of my professional duties and my domestic responsibilities. That is probably because I work at my computer at home and not in a factory or on a construction site. When driving, I always carry a small card in my wallet next to my driver’s license that explains to law enforcement officers that my erratic driving may have been caused by a chronic brain disorder. Thank goodness I have never been forced to pull out my “Get out of jail free” card because I cannot walk a straight line even on my best days.

Thanks mostly to my wife’s ability to cover the major portion of our income and secure health care through her employer, finances have never been a major concern. Susan made certain our health care was covered last year when she created her own consulting firm. We are not looking forward to dealing with the bureaucracy when it comes time to transition to Medicare.

According to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, there are 2.3 million people worldwide who suffer with MS. Research has been unable to determine any cause for the disease, and there are no cures. Medical advancements in the last few years have helped patients cope with symptoms, but there has been little progress toward reversing the loss of myelin around the nerves that transmit messages from the brain.

Many people have symptoms that are not identified as MS for many years. In fact, until the widespread acceptance of MRI imaging, the method for diagnosing the condition was the elimination of other conditions through a series of brutal tests.

For myself, I can think back to a time in college when I was even clumsier than normal, dropping my books, stumbling and forgetting important dates. Doctors hospitalized me at the age of 19 for a spinal tap to determine the cause of my awkward lack of balance. The diagnosis at that point was a pinched nerve. But those warning signs were quickly forgotten in a few weeks when I appeared to find my equilibrium.

Many people are quick to dismiss some of the early warning signs, like the feeling of pins and

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needles in your feet similar to when your legs are crossed too long or being tired all the time.

Naps are a good thing, and I’ve learned to listen to my body and enjoy losing my eyes in the afternoon. But that is not by choice.

Issues with speech and swallowing are also common symptoms that people do not suspect as being a symptom for something more serious. For me, damaged portions of my brain have caused slurred speech. Ironically, my degree is in broadcast journalism. I would have been on disability 20 years ago if my career had taken me into radio or television.

A speech therapist taught me to slow my speech to help me enunciate. She also taught me to speak louder to help me articulate. But that did not work because people thought I was just yelling all the time.

Pain is a common complaint of people with MS. One lady I knew through a support group actually thought of having her legs amputated to eliminate the constant pain. Thankfully she did not follow through with her plans.

I was never much of drinker, but one cocktail is now more than enough for me to pass the

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car keys. I have also given up attempting to calculate the proper amount needed for a tip.

Many of my fellow patients have utilized prescriptions from their doctor to return to the altered state of mind they enjoyed during the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;60s. Now that cannabis is legal, the thrill is gone but high times remain the norm.

My wife has always accused me of not being able to multitask, but I honestly cannot say if that is a result of MS or just not being very detail oriented. Lists have become an important part of my daily life, from a Honey-do list for chores around the house to simple trips to the grocery store.

There was a time that I would stand up on tables to voice my opposition to social injustice. Now I cannot trust myself to stand on the table or climb a ladder. My loss of memory is something else that can be blamed on either age or MS. Or both.

There have been numerous times when my daughter will blame my MS for my lack of control over my emotions. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve tried to explain to her that I am just a mean old man.

Anybody who knew me before I was diagnosed has not been surprised when I have tried to make light of the bleak prospects for my future.

For example, I take great pride in the fact that I do not get seasick anymore. When I am aboard a boat filled with people turning green at the

In one way I am thankful to MS. My wife and I made the decision to travel while I am still able to get around without a wheelchair. That has been a blessing. gills, I simply welcome them to the world that I live in every day. After my initial diagnosis, I realized that I could reach into a boiling pot of water to drain pasta without any pain.

However, I forgot to realize that my skin would still turn red and form blisters.

When the director of the Washington Chapter of the national Multiple Sclerosis Society approached me and a friend about establishing monthly meetings for a self-help group, I was reluctant to participate until we agreed to name our little group the No Whiners. We now meet once a month at a local hospital to hear speakers who help us enhance the quality of our lives.

In one way I am thankful to MS. My wife and I made the decision to travel while I am still able to get around without a wheelchair. That has been a blessing.

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When my doctor explained that a majority of my sensory losses would occur in the first five years after my diagnosis, I went out that day and purchased a sports car with a five-speed transmission. That was an expensive mistake.

When it came time to buy a new house when the kids were in high school, Susan and I limited our search to homes with a master bedroom on the main floor. Since then we have moved to a home filled with stairs and grandkids.

Modern medicine has limited the progression of my disease and healthy habits have given increased my chance to lead a long (and somewhat normal) life.

More importantly, I have been surrounded by an incredible support system, beginning with the self-help group organized by the National MS Society, understanding friends, compassionate children and a loving wife who never fails to amaze me. And I never did buy that cane.

Dan Aznoff is a freelance writer based in Mukilteo, Washington. He was a finalist for a Pulitzer Prize for his coverage of the toxic waste crisis and has received acclamation for his work in the areas of sustainable energy and the insurance industry. He is the author of three books that document colorful periods of history in Washington. He can be reached at da@ dajournalist.com.

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Shop Our Waterfront!

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Devoted Kiss Cafe 8809 N Harborview Drive, Gig Harbor 253.851.0055 | DevotedKissCafe.com

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Harbor History Museum 4121 Harborview Drive, Gig Harbor 253.858.6722 | HarborHistoryMuseum.org

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Beach Basket 4102 Harborview Drive, Gig Harbor 253.858.3008

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JW Real Estate 3308 Harborview Dr. Ste. B, Gig Harbor 253.228.2706 | www.JW.Properties

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Sharons Resale Boutique 7620 Pioneer Way, Gig Harbor 253.851.3550 | SpaGigHarbor.com

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Imagine Great Things 7807 Pioneer Way, Gig Harbor 253.851.4474

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Envy 7811 Pioneer Way, Gig Harbor 253.226.1332 | f Envy

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Tickled Pink 3026 Harborview Dr., Gig Harbor 253.858.1751 | f Tickled Pink

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Weathered Cottage 3306 Harborview Drive, Gig Harbor 253.530.0818

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Sea Hags 3302 Harborview Drive, Gig Harbor 253.851.0459 | SeaHagsLLC.com

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The Nook 3226 Harborview Drive, Gig Harbor 253.432.1499 | TheNookGH.com

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Waterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Edge Gallery 7808 Pioneer Way, Gig Harbor 253.858.7449 | WatersEdgeGallery.com

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Green Turtle 2905 Harborview Drive, Gig Harbor 253.851.3167 | TheGreenTurtle.com

Thank You for Shopping Local!

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simple

HOLIDAY ENTERTAINING MADE Tips and tricks for the season

BY TROY LOUIS CHANDLER

s I hit the snooze button for the umpteenth time, something came over me. A slight chill that was not emitted from the “white noise” fan that I keep on at night to quiet life’s random choir of neighborhood noises. I peered out of my bedroom window and noticed that it was slightly open and that all of the trees outside are naked. It is winter. I shut the window, grabbed my cozy robe, put on a pot of coffee, sat back and let the warmth of holiday cheer take over. This is my favorite time of year as a chef and as a house dad. This is the time for holiday entertaining. Holiday entertaining can be a chaotic and stressful time, but it does not have to be. I have come up with seven holiday tips to guide you through your holiday entertaining.

A

• Keep It Simple, Go Nuts Most modern grocery stores have amazing bulk food sections. Visit these bulk food aisles to gather various roasted nuts. Mix your holiday bounty and place into a decorative bowl accompanied with a few nut crackers. Stand back and watched your friends and family gather ‘round, cracking and enjoying roasted nuts and talking about this holiday season. This has become a wonderful tradition at my house that is easy and inexpensive.

• Mulled Wine I like to keep this holiday libation on the kitchen counter in a crockpot on a low setting just enough to fill the house with holiday “spirit.” As guests come over, they are greeted with a little holiday goodness! Here is an easy recipe that will kick off all of your holiday soirées.

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This is the time for holiday entertaining.

Holiday entertaining can be a chaotic and stressful time, but it does not have to be.

“

Ingredients: 4 cups apple cider 1 bottle of red wine 1/4 cup honey 2 Mexican cinnamon sticks The juice and zest of one orange 4 cloves 3 star anise Method: Place all into a stainless steel or non-reactive pot and bring to just before a boil. Turn down to warm and watch the magic begin.

• Holiday-Themed Movies There is no shortage of great holiday movies out there. I gathered my favorites and put them on an external hard drive so that I can have them play on a loop. You can stream them to your TV from a laptop.

My top picks are A Christmas Story, Home Alone, Elf, Christmas Vacation and … It’s a Wonderful Life.

• White Elephant Gift Exchange Most of us have experienced this phenomenon at work.

But trying it at home is more fun than a bag full of ferrets. Invite your friends and family to join you in your freshly holiday-decorated abode for a new comedy-packed tradition. A fun touch is to add in a ridiculous gift that can be passed on year after year. You can also give awards for best

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Enhance your home Custom Furniture Custom Doors Custom Kitchens Laser Engraving Millwork Gifts Items Gig Harbor - Olalla, WA (253) 858-3210 Robb@RobbYoung.com www.RobbYoung.com

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gift, worst gift, funniest gift, etc. A good friend of mine wanted to win the worst gift category so he gave a card that read, “Your gift is a classic car.” The recipient was awarded with an old junker that they had to figure out what to do with. Funny?

• Be Cheesy A great way to impress holiday guests is with a cheese platter. This is an easy way to “wow” your friends with little effort. Grab four to five types of cheese. Cut some into cubes, slice some and crumble some. Arrange them on a tray and place strands of grapes for garnish. On a separate tray, arrange various crackers to pair with.

Don’t be afraid to throw that weird holiday red almond cheese ball in the mix as a centerpiece.

• Potluck Why slave away in the kitchen this year? Let your guests know of the masterpiece that you are going to create and then allow them to create everything that will go with it. So that you don’t end up with 12 types of artichoke dip, make a list of items that you would like your guests to bring. You can create a group email and check items off as your guests accept each challenge. As an added bonus to your genius, you will have a week’s worth of awesome leftovers!

• Be Entertained All right, all right, you have been the host of many holiday get-togethers. It just might be time for you to be holiday entertained. It’s time that you finally accept that offer to go to the neighbor’s or a coworker’s house or … a family member’s house for the holidays. Make your favorite dish, show up and just have a nice time. As a chef, I am going to take this advice, let someone else drive the bus and have a great holiday season. I will see you at your house!

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GIVE THE GIFT OF MEMORIES Unique gift ideas that last a lifetime and don’t break the budget

By Patty Hutchens

T

he Christmas season is a joyful time full of family, fun and joy. But the reality is, that for many, it also brings with it a great deal of stress. “How will I afford to buy all these gifts for the people on my list?” It makes one dread what is supposed to the season of hope. So why not try something new this year? Instead of watching your credit card balance increase over the holiday season, why not think of creative ways to provide a gift to someone on your list that does not cost much—or possibly nothing at all. Purchase just a small gift that also provides an opportunity to spend valuable time with one another. Shared experiences are something that will last a lifetime, unlike toys that will soon be forgotten, or even broken.

As adults, how often do we find ourselves “spring cleaning” no matter what time of year. We get tired of the clutter and seek to rid ourselves of

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the abundance of things we have in the hope that it will help not only our physical environment but also our emotional well-being. “Cleaning house” externally can help calm us internally.

So, the gift of spending time with someone or providing an experience to them makes sense when it comes to gift giving to the adults in our lives. But it is not just adults who benefit from time spent together; shared experiences are important for children, too, as it helps contribute to their psychological development. Those children who spend time sharing experiences with others have been found to have a stronger sense of identity, higher rates of academic success and a greater sense of security. Grandparents and grandchildren who spend time together also can learn a great deal from one another’s generation.

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Let me help you make the move that is right for you.

Call me for a hassle-free consultation.

253.732.0534 sue@suerand.com www.suerand.com

“Why Gig Harbor is a great place to live, work and play”

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Here are a few suggestions for those who may be on your list this year.

“ feliz

Homemade gift certificates can be a wonderful way to tailor a gift for that special person in your life, whether it is a child or an adult. Make a gift certificate to take that person to their favorite restaurant for some special one-on-one time.

This way, the recipient can choose the place and you get the opportunity to share time with that special person.

Spending time as a family is something that is increasingly difficult in this day and age. Both parents often work outside the home and kids’ schedules are packed with extra-curricular activities and homework.

So, consider giving gifts to your children that can help facilitate a family game night. Buy one game for each child this Christmas and increase your game collection. Then, set aside one night each week to gather as a family and spend time interacting with one another and trying out the new games!

Do your children enjoy working with their hands and creating new things? A “craft bucket” full of supplies is a wonderful gift for them (and you!) to explore their creative side. Fill a bucket with scissors, paper, glue, painting kits and more to inspire them. If you are particularly crafty, take the time to teach your child your special skills.

For seniors on a fixed income, it may be especially difficult to make ends meet over the holidays. After all, often times they have the largest list of all with children and grandchildren to buy for. Instead of purchasing gifts, why not offer your children the gift of babysitting your grandchildren so your child can enjoy some time with their spouse. And you get to spend that cherished time with your grandchildren as well!

Dads. They are frequently much more difficult to buy for, especially when it comes to gifts of experience. Does your dad or husband enjoy a particular hobby? Home beer brewing has become increasingly popular over the last several years, and more and more men (and women) are creating their own concoctions at home. It’s something people can do together, and both can learn a new hobby as well. Visit a local home brew store to investigate what supplies and ingredients are necessary.

navidad

Does your dad enjoy outdoor activities? Plan a spring or summer camping trip for the entire family (as the best camp sites must be reserved months, if not a year, in

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FORMERLY KNOWN AS PENINSULA GARDENS NURSERY

M a r a k e u t Place s n i n e P Holiday Decor & Gifts Free Admission

Antiques | Repurposed Items Hand-Crafted Food & Gifts| Garden Decor It’s not the good life, it’s the best life!

Plants & Much More!

Contact Alice @ 253-861-3822 for Vendor Info

Welcome home to Harbor Place!

From morning to night, you’ve got friends to meet up with, activities to share and a beautiful environment around you.

From fine dining, to sunny courtyard lunches, our chef prepares meals meant to be savored.

Choose from a range of active living options that complement your personal requirements and lifestyle.

Independent Retirement & Assisted Living Community Mid-Century Mod Scandinavian & contemporary furnishings art gallery and gifts 5125 Olympic Drive NW, Gig Harbor, WA | 253.858.7226 5 mood.Gallery | 0 mood@mood.gallery

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1016 29th Street NW Gig Harbor, WA 98335 253.853.3354 HarborPlaceRetirement.com

“

Homemade gift certificates can be a wonderful way to tailor a gift for that special person in your life, whether it is a child or an adult.

advance) and let him know he’ll be enjoying the outdoors again soon enough. Even better, his Christmas gift will carry over into the new year, and he’ll cherish the opportunity to spend time with his family creating memories.

Moms are typically much easier to shop for when it comes to giving the gift of an experience.

Pampering gifts are especially popular, whether it is a massage, pedicure or simply time alone to soak in a hot bath while Dad takes the kids out for a movie or sweet treat.

For a man seeking to give the gift of an experience to his wife, simply planning a date night and making all the arrangements, including the babysitter, will go a long way. Women often are the ones who schedule and plan all the family’s activities, so this will truly be one you want to repeat for special occasions!

Whatever you choose to purchase or create for those on your “nice” list this year, it is important to remember the true meaning of Christmas and to carry the spirit of Christmas in your heart all year long!

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Experience Little Norway this Holiday Season!

Jule Fest & Scandinavian Bazaar Free Horse Drawn Carriage Rides Free photos with Nordic Father Christmas

Reader's Choice in BEST OF KITSAP survey BEST HOLIDAY EVENT Downtown Poulsbo Christmas

Lighted Boat Parade Scandinavian Foods, Bakery and Gifts

For Dates and Times visit www.HistoricDowntownPoulsbo.com

WWW.OLALLAWINES.COM 253.851.4949

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the Holiday Season Gig Harbor Style The holidays are a magical time of year, and Gig Harbor is bringing unique opportunities for local families to get out and enjoy the Christmas season with some wonderful community activities. Mark your calendars for these events you won’t want to miss!

St. Anthony Holiday Bazaar Join St. Anthony Hospital (11567 Canterwood Boulevard Northwest) as they once again host the St. Anthony Holiday Bazaar Friday, December 7, on the hospital's ground floor. Avoid the busy shopping malls and shop local, 9am to 4pm, in a casual and friendly atmosphere. It's the perfect place to browse and buy unique holiday gifts for those you hold dear, as the Holiday Bazaar provides local and surrounding city crafters, jewelry makers and artists the opportunity to sell and display their hand-crafted and creative merchandise to the public. And ... admission is free for all who attend. Don't miss out and get some of those names crossed off your Christmas shopping list.

Holiday Hayrides with Santa The Gig Harbor Downtown Waterfront Alliance is putting on the Holiday Hayrides once again December 7 and 8. Families, couples or whomever else who would like a ride can meet at the Timberland Bank on Judson Street beginning at 4:30pm both evenings. Rides are free for everyone and provided by Miracle Ranch. While you wait your turn, you are invited inside the bank for cider and cookies! Once on the hayride, children will be in awe as they take in the sights and sounds of the waterfront, as it has been transformed into a Christmas wonderland! This is an event you’ll want to make a tradition year after year.

It's a Wonderful Waterfront & Deck The Harbor Downtown Gig Harbor comes alive with Christmas spirit each December as busy holiday shoppers look for those perfect one-of-a kind gifts and visit their favorite restaurants and coffee shops with their out-of-town guests. Waterfront merchants are ready to welcome you in with great holiday specials and treats, and some will offer extended shopping hours Friday, December 7, through Sunday, December 9!

Shoppers are sure to enjoy all of the lights, decorations and displays adorning the storefronts, as the annual Deck the Harbor decorating contest is in full swing. Shop the harbor, enjoy the displays as you stroll the streets and be sure to cast your vote for the People’s Choice award for your favorite window. Voting continues through December 16.

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Peninsula Marketplace Holiday Show The Peninsula Marketplace Holiday Show is a holiday extravaganza you won’t want to pass up! Held at 5503 Wollochet Drive Northwest, the event kicked off November 30 but continues December 1, 8, 9 and 15. The community is invited to shop 9am to 3pm each day, where they will be treated to a variety of handcrafted goods, festive décor, unique treasures and more from dozens of incredible vendors. From authors and artists, knitters, potters and bakers, to jewelry and toy makers, metal crafters and fishermen, you’re sure to find just what you’re looking for. There’s even greenery and plants! Attendees will enjoy live music on Saturdays.

Rachel Morgan Perry takes the stage December 1 and 15 with her unique sweet country sound, and David Hannon will be performing a blend of contemporary and soft rock with a creative twist December 8. Admission is free!

Love Life. Love Fashion.

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Making Members Stronger in 30 Minutes, Physically and Mentally Full Body Workout Workout Changes Daily Trainer Always Included

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We provide personal shopping, wrapping & shipping!

Holiday décor, candles & ornaments.

Uttermost furniture, décor and Art. Napa Home Décor.

Wide array of gifts for ladies, girls, babies, corporate, etc.

Ladies Apparel – well known & boutique brands.

Fun & fabulous jewelry.

7700 Pioneer Way Gig Harbor 253.851.5113 dollymamaboutique.com GigHarborLivingLocal.com

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Located in Uptown 4793 Point Fosdick Dr. NW, Ste. 100 Gig Harbor, WA 98335

(253) 514-6670 www.9Round.com/GigHarborWA @ 9RoundGigHarbor

Lighted Boat Parade

Hark the Harbor

Presented by the Gig Harbor Yacht Club, the annual Lighted Boat Parade returns to Gig Harbor Saturday, December 8. This is an event you don’t want to miss, as beautifully decorated and brightly lit boats—from fishing vessels to pleasure boats to kayaks—make their way down the harbor starting at 5pm. It’s sure to put a smile on your face and brighten your night. If you’re looking to get out on the water and participate in the parade, rather than watch from ashore, all area boaters are welcome to participate, whether or not you are members of Gig Harbor Yacht Club.

Register online at GigHarborYC.com or by sending your name, boat name and length, and email address to ghyclightedparade@gmail.com.

Bundle up and gather with family and friends under the Pavilion at Skansie Brothers Park (3207 Harborview Drive) starting at 5:30pm on Sunday, December 9, where you can join the community in caroling while waiting in anticipation of the arrival of the Argosy Christmas Ship. Family entertainer and accomplished musician Sharon Stearnes will lead carolers with joyful holiday carols. Songbooks and candles will be provided to those in attendance. The event concludes around 7pm. The event is a wonderful way for both young and old to spend an evening with the Gig Harbor community and share in the Christmas spirit.

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la la la

Point Fosdick Antique Airplane Hangar A Working Antique Airplane Collection

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A Glimpse Into Our History The Point Fosdick Antique Airplane Hangar is a culmination of research, experience, and the hard work of many people. Master mechanics and restorers like Bob Johnson, with 40 years of experience, and William Hill, with over 50 years, have made this antique airplane hangar possible. Their dedication and passion to quality workmanship and the pursuit of aviation excellence allows these works of art to grace modern day skies with their presence.

This collection has been brought as close to the original appearance as possible allowing the visitor to experience the majesty of each plane as it left the factory.

Bob and Bill Juranich opened the doors at KTIW to educate and inspire the public with their collection of antique airplanes. They hope to ignite a passion in each visitor who comes to experience the aircraft of a bygone era.

1108 26th Ave NW, Gig Harbor

We are located at the Tacoma Narrows Airport, just outside of Gig Harbor.

253.255.5319 | pfhangar.com | events@pfhangar.com GigHarborLivingLocal.com

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Quiet Season on Orcas Island

The perfect antidote to all the holiday commotion STORY AND PHOTOS BY MARGUERITE CLEVELAND

Y

ou know you have stumbled upon a hidden gem when the guests, finding out you are a travel writer, ask you not to write about the location because they don’t want anyone else to discover this special experience. So shhh, don’t tell anyone about the Smuggler’s Villa Resort on Orcas Island; it will be our secret. You will want to visit sooner rather than later as rumors abound on the island about Oprah’s recent extensive real estate purchases on the island.

Mike Stolmeier has managed the property for almost 30 years and is also an owner. The resort has individually owned townhouses that are offered as vacation rentals. “We get a lot of regulars. I am now seeing kids who I watched take their first steps now bringing their own kids here. This is a place of firsts—first step, first time swimming or making s’mores. That’s what makes my day here,” he said. “We say we like kids and tolerate adults.” The resort is very family friendly.

Quiet season is a special time in the San Juan Islands, and Orcas Island is a perfect location to unwind before or during the holiday season. “Guest coming here love there are no malls. Families will visit to do holiday baking and spend time enjoying each other’s company,” said Stolmeier. “One of the popular things we do each night is our fire pit. Typically there are three shifts which begin at sunset. The first is parents with younger children, followed by families with older kids, and then you will get adults sitting around the fire until 1 or 2 in the morning.”

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THE GIFT O F WA R M T H It may be the warmest gift you give.

It’s called Project HELP. Project Help serves our members who need a hand to pay their winter heating bills. It’s a partnership between Peninsula Light Co. and Key Peninsula Community Services.

Your contributions go entirely to the fund—no administrative costs are taken. Contributions are tax deductible and Peninsula Light Co. matches every donation, dollar for dollar, so your gift goes twice as far.

We hope you will give generously to help warm the hearts—and homes— of those in need.

For more information, contact the Member Services Department at 253.857.5950 or toll-free at 888.809.8021.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR GI FT! www.penlight.org

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YOU KNOW YOU HAVE STUMBLED UPON A HIDDEN GEM WHEN THE GUESTS, FINDING OUT YOU ARE A TRAVEL WRITER, ASK YOU NOT TO WRITE ABOUT THE LOCATION BECAUSE THEY DON’T WANT ANYONE ELSE TO DISCOVER THIS SPECIAL EXPERIENCE.

Located on the North Shore of the island, the pebble beach affords breathtaking views of the San Juan Islands, Mount Baker and lovely sunsets. The outdoor swimming pool is unheated but open year round.

Many guests try a European spa experience by jumping in the icy water and then getting into the hot tub or sauna. Kids will love the menagerie of animals from parrots and guinea pigs to aquariums. Cuddles, a super friendly bird, greets everyone with a hello when they pass by her cage.

The resort also has a marina and kayaking, and fishing charters or whale watching tours are available adjacent to the villas.

As the quiet season slips on to Orcas Island, the summer crowds fade away and some businesses close. Make sure to visit the Orcas Island Chamber of Commerce website (see The Specifics). Each week they post a “Blast” which gives you a schedule for all the activities taking place on the island, and they also have a listing of what is open. A must see during your visit is the little town of Eastsound with its quaint shops and restaurants. You can walk from Smuggler’s but it is about a mile or so.

This time of year it is easy to find parking in town. Stop at Brown Bear Baking for good coffee, fresh pastries and hot-out-of-the-hearth bread— all baked daily. The baking kitchen is open so you can watch the masters at work. With a very friendly staff, you will find yourself a regular during your stay on the island.

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Plan to spend a day on the other side of the island. Moran State Park with its pristine lakes and lush forests is the jewel of Orcas Island. It is much larger than you would expect and is actually the fourth largest state park in Washington. Drive up to the top of Mount Constitution, which rises nearly a half mile above Orcas Island, or plan to park and hike up. There are a couple of options for shorter or longer hikes. At the top of the mountain is a watch tower, constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. From the top of the tower is the best view of the San Juan Islands. Locals call it one of the top water views in the world. Although that is not verifiable, it is pretty incredible. On a clear day you can see Mount Baker and Mount Rainier and all the way into Canada.

After spending time in the park you are sure to have worked up an appetite. The Rosario Resort is not far away and is a beautiful location to enjoy a late lunch at the Mansion Restaurant. (Note this time of year lunch is only Friday through Sunday.) The restaurant is in the historic Moran Mansion in what was once the veranda overlooking Cascade Bay. The hotel also has a free museum with information about the historic mansion and the Moran family. A former mayor of Seattle and a shipbuilder, Robert Moran donated much of the land, which became Moran State Park, to the State of Washington.

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Locally owned and operated Fine Jewelry, Repairs, Custom Jewelry, Appraisals, Citizen Watches * Special financing available

253.514.8478 | 4711 Point Fosdick Drive NW | Gig Harbor, WA 98335

Merry Christmas From Our House to Yours

The Elves have been very busy! Come visit our Winter Wonderland!

HOURS Mon-Sat 10am -6pm Sun 11am -6pm

Happy Holidays from our Family to Yours!

·Designer Clothing ·Accessories ·Furniture

7620 Pioneer Way Gig Harbor, WA 98335

253.851.3550

The Beach Basket | 4102 Harborview Dr | Gig Harbor | (253) 858-9639

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spagigharbor.com

The Specifics GETTING THERE For peace of mind, make a ferry reservation and note that you will need to make a westbound and eastbound reservation. Make sure to arrive 30 minutes prior to departure or you will lose your reservation. TakeaFerry.com

VISITOR INFORMATION Orcas Island Chamber of Commerce OrcasIslandChamber.com Visit the San Juan Islands - VisitSanJuans.com

WHERE TO STAY Smuggler’s Villa Resort - Smugglers.com

WHERE TO EAT The Brown Bear Baking Company Facebook.com/BrownBearBaking Boat House Ciderworks - BHCider.com

THINGS TO DO Outer Island Excursions - OuterIslandX.com The Rosario Resort - RosarioResort.com Moran State Park - MoranStatePark.com

Quiet season is a special time in the San Juan Islands.

If you are lucky enough to visit on a Saturday, you can experience the unique performance by musician Christopher Peacock. He regales the audience with tales of the mansion’s history interspersed with musical interludes on the 1900 Steinway Grand Piano and the 1914 Aeolian organ with 1972 pipes and a slide show of historic photos. The grand finale is the original silent film version of “The Phantom of the Opera” featuring Lon Chaney in the title role. The silent movie is accompanied by Peacock on the organ. It is mesmerizing. The presentation is free and takes place at 4pm on Saturdays.

The San Juan Islands Scenic Byway has a portion on Orcas Island. This is a great way to explore and points out all the highlights of the island. The self-guided drive begins at the Orcas Island ferry landing in the cute little Orcas Village. There is an eclectic market with upscale groceries, a few shops and Boathouse Ciderworks. It will take two to three hours to drive around the island. The byway will take you through small hamlets and

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scenic bays. The views really open up this time of year after the fall foliage is gone. Deer Harbor has a nice public sandy beach which is worth a visit.

For more information on the byway, check out the Visit San Juan Islands website (See The Specifics).

Orcas Island really shines in the quiet season where one can relax and unwind without the crowds of the summer. Winter weather is very mild with average temperatures of 46 to 48 degrees Fahrenheit and a lot less rain than the mainland—in December you are likely to see a sunny day during your visit! After touring the island, enjoy some downtime at the Smuggler’s Villa Resort. Disconnect from technology and reconnect with your family or friends. Stroll the quiet beach or take a private charter with Outer Island Excursions located on site. You can schedule a fishing charter or go see some of the lighthouses from the water. Bundle up, throw some steaks on the grill and enjoy the views from your deck.

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Located just down from the new Fred Meyer in the Westside Business Parkark.

• Ask About Christmas Time Specials • Servicing Foreign & Domestic • Scheduled Maintenance • Brake Service • Oil Changes & More

Call Today!

253.851.0500

At TURCO’S AUTOMOTIVE, we don’t just care about your car, we care about you!

WE LIKE TO GIVE BACK!

Please ask about our Military & Senior Discounts

3523 57th ST CT NW, Gig Harbor, WA turcosautomotive.com

3200 Tarabochia Street • Gig Harbor 253.514.6890 • www.rainydayyarns.com Mon - Fri 11:00 am - 5:00 pm | Sat 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Closed Sundays

253-398-5930

Family | Events | Weddings Memories | Business Promos and More

Exploration

SHARE YOUR LOVE OF TRAVEL WITH TREES TO SEAS!

Call to join our Group & Private Classes!

Alex & Mykala Chandler ChandlerMediaDesign.com Alex.D.Chandler@gmail.com

BEGIN YOUR

Wide Range of Beautiful Yarns Large Selection of Needles, Hooks, Books & Accessories Knitwear, Jewelry & Gifts by Local Artists Custom Orders Always Welcome

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• CUSTOM ITINERARIES • SENIOR TRAVEL • CRUISES • LAND TOURS • HOTELS & RESORTS

253.509.4327 dhartley@treestoseastravel.com treestoseastravel.com

Occasions

Coffee and Crepes

Occasions

4700 Pt Fosdick Dr NW, Ste 109 In the Olympic Medical Plaza

253-851-2576

• • • • •

Paninis & Sandwiches Build Your Own Crepes Salads and Soups Forza Coffee All Recycleable Packaging and Utensils

Coffee and Crepes

PUMPKIN CHEESE CAKE CREPE

Ray and Jan Wainright, owners of Occasions Coffee & Crepes since 2000, and Gig Harbor residents.

www.occasionscoffeeandcrepes.com

Primary Healthcare for All Ages Accepting New Patients

Scot Fleshman, ARNP, FNP-BC

• Sports Physicals

• Referrals

• Family Medical Services

• Well Woman Exams

• Annual Physicals

• Well Child Exams

• Preventative Care

• Health Education & Management

• Immunizations / Flu Shots

• Chronic Disease Management

• Same Day Sick Visits

• Acute Illness Treatment

We work with our patients to create pathways for optimal health and wellbeing through an integrative and comprehensive care approach. Being your primary care provider involves treating the entire patient, starting with overall physical health while also considering other significant factors such as family, emotional, social and environmental health.

4423 Point Fosdick Drive NW, Suite 306 | Gig Harbor, WA 98335 (253) 432-4437 | RainierFamilyMedicine.com

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Located in the Gig Harbor Corporate Center Across the street from the Gig Harbor Library

Gig Harbor Living Local

Dining Guide 2018

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DRUNKEN PRAWNS Courtesy of Chef Troy Louis Chandler Not too long ago, I stopped going out on New Year’s Eve, although I have had as much fun as the next guy, I think. I came to a point in my life where the thought of being in all of the chaos, traffic, Ubers and, oh yeah, the overly intoxicated masses just wasn’t as appealing as it once was. Now I enjoy ringing in the New Year with my family and whatever ball-dropping special is on the tube. Or to have a few friends over to have a nice evening and talk about the events good and bad of the quickly fading year that was that will now only be with us in memories. Here is a fun appetizer for New Year’s Eve.

INGREDIENTS - prawns • Prawns - about 3 per person (I like Mexican wild prawns, but any will do. For the size, u-15s are my favorite. 1620s will work just as well. See note below about prawn sizing.)

• 1/4 cup fresh chopped herbs (dill, tarragon, parsley, etc.)

• Olive oil • Salt and pepper to taste

METHOD • Coat your prawns in olive oil and season with salt and pepper and set aside. *Prawn sizing.

Prawns/shrimp are sized by the pound. So a u-15 means there are about 15 prawns in a pound. 16-20s means there are about 16 to 20 prawns per pound. The lower the number, the larger the prawn. Salad shrimp are anywhere from a 77 to 99 count. I feel that most prawns that are larger than the u-15 can be tough or chewy, so bigger isn’t always better and is always more expensive.

INGREDIENTS - sauce • • • • •

1 medium shallot minced 1/2 cup dry champagne 2 tbsp. champagne vinegar 1/2 cup heavy cream 1/2 stick cold unsalted butter cut into small pieces • Salt and pepper to taste

METHOD • Combine shallot, champagne and vinegar in a saucepan on medium heat.

• Stir and cook until it reduces by about half.

• Add the heavy cream, stir and cook until slightly thickened, enough to coat the back of a spoon.

• Whisk in butter until butter is melted. Season and set aside. (You can return the pan to a low burner to melt any stubborn pieces of butter, but be careful. Too much heat will break your sauce.) A good way to hold this sauce is to place it in a bowl over hot water.

• In a sauté pan on medium high, add your prawns and let them cook until they turn color on the pan side. Stir them and sauté for another minute. Plate the prawns and drizzle your sauce over them. Garnish them with fresh chopped herbs.

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BUYA$50 GIFTCARD, GETAFREE $10 GIFTCARD!

& Tequila Bar

AWA R D-W I N N I N G

Mexican Restaurant

Voted #5 Best Mexican Restaurant Bar in America!

2014 - 2018

2014 - 2018

The Place To Go For Mexican!

4628 PT FOSDICK DRIVE NW GIG HARBOR, WA 98335 253.851.8464

New GRANDEZA MARGARITA

Fine Dining with Endless Views

of Mt. Rainier and the Gig Harbor Lighthouse.

Walk-Ins & Reservations Lunch Tues~Sat 11am to 2pm Dinner Tues~Sat 4pm to close Closed Sunday & Monday

253.851.3167 â&#x20AC;¢ Lunch & Dinner

2905 Harborview Drive NW

Cocktails ~ Premium Beers ~ Extended Wine List

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www.thegreenturtle.com

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LUNCHBOX LABORATORY This “funkadelic” restaurant boasts the world’s best burgers and shakes, features a wide range of eclectic burgers, as well as rotating experiments. Also on the menu are handcrafted shakes, a variety of crazy experimental cocktails and patio dining when the weather allows!

4901 Pt. Fosdick Dr. NW | Gig Harbor 253.432.4061 LunchboxLaboratory.com

MARKETPLACE GRILLE American cuisine with a Caribbean flair. The best fish and chips and clam chowder in Gig Harbor! Located next to Anthony’s Restaurant, they offer an expansive view of the harbor. Family owned and operated. Beer and wine, takeout menu available. Open Mon.-Thurs. 11am-8pm, Fri.-Sat. 11am-9pm, Sun. 11am-8pm.

8825 N. Harborview Dr. Unit C | Gig Harbor 253.858.3487

HARBOR GENERAL STORE The Harbor General Store is a gourmet market, cafe and gift boutique, where the community comes to get supplies and gifts and feel connected. They sell goods that are quality and made in America and are passionate about the environment, creating jobs and supporting artisans. Open Mon.-Sat. 7am-7pm, Sun. 8am-5pm. Drive thru opens at 6am Mon.-Fri.

7804 Pioneer Way | Gig Harbor 253.358.3241 | TheHarborGeneralStore.com

GREEN.HOUSE RESTAURANT Come and try their delicious new additions and nightly specials at the Green.House Restaurant, offering lunch, twilight, dinner and happy hour. Try the three-course twilight dinner for $24 all night on Sunday. Their small and bigger bites menu offers fun, deliciously shareable plates.

Open Mon.-Thurs. 11am-9pm, Fri.-Sat. 11am-10pm, Sun. 11am-8pm.

4793 Point Fosdick Dr. NW #400 | Gig Harbor 253.514.6482 | GreenHouseGigHarbor.com

MOCTEZUMA’S

$5 Menu

Voted best Mexican Restaurant in South Sound Magazine for 2015! Since 1978, Moctezuma’s has been the favorite of those seeking authentic Mexican food and award-winning Margaritas. Go visit their Gig Harbor location and enjoy their Tequila Bar for daily happy hour specials and an array of delicious appetizers.

4628 Pt. Fosdick DR. NW | Gig Harbor 253.851.8464 | Moctezumas.com

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MILLVILLE PIZZA CO. Located along the historic Downtown Gig Harbor waterfront, Millville Pizza Co. serves artisanal wood-fired pizza Tuesday through Saturday from 11:30am to 2:30pm and 4:30 to 9:30pm.

3411 Harborview Dr. | Gig Harbor 253.514.8626 MillvillePizzaCo.com

BOOK A HOLIDAY PARTY AT MARKEE ORDER A SHOWSTOPPER PLATTER

GREEN TURTLE RESTAURANT The dining atmosphere has always been considered one of Gig Harbor's favorites with a quaint dining room and our outdoor deck, both with serene waterfront views of the Gig Harbor light house and Mount Rainier. Join us for cocktails, premium beers and an extended wine list and make The Green Turtle one of your most memorable dining experiences. To make a reservation please call:

2905 Harborview Drive | Gig Harbor 253.851.3167

OCCASIONS COFFEE & CREPES Gig Harbor’s home for coffee & crepes! Located in the heart of Gig Harbor at the Franciscan Medical Building, Occasions Coffee and Crepes offers premium, hand-crafted espresso drinks, smoothies, fresh salads, hot paninis, fresh made deli sandwiches, soups and of course made-to-order crepes!

4700 Point Fosdick Dr NW #109 | Gig Harbor 253.851.2576 OccasionsCoffeeandCrepes.com

Voted Finest Coffee

#DrinkMarkee

WE’RE MORE THAN JUST good coffee, delicious food, & excellent entertainment.

WE ARE COMMUNITY.

Eat Fresh Eat Local GigHarborLivingLocal.com

drinkmarkee.com hello@drinkmarkee.com

Gig Harbor

5275 Olympic Dr NW, Ste 101 Gig Harbor, WA (253) 649-4122

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ENTERTAINMENT

Holiday Cruise SPIRIT OF SEATTLE BRINGS CHEER TO THE SOUND

BY COLIN ANDERSON PHOTO COURTESY OF ARGOSY CRUISES

F

Spread the holiday cheer across waters!

or more than 70 years, Argosy Cruise’s Spirit of Seattle has been bringing Holiday cheer all throughout the season, and you can be a part of this time-honored tradition all month long.

Decorated in hundreds of twinkling lights, the official Christmas Ship sets sail each evening cruising by upwards of 65 Puget Sound communities. Choirs on board entertain guests, and there are several ways individuals and families can partake in the festivities.

own holiday craft bag. Both cruises offer a full bar and box meals for an additional charge as well as contests to win great prizes.

The Lead Boat cruise is onboard the Spirit of Seattle, and guests are also joined by Santa Claus. The boat slowly makes its way through the Sound over the course of about three hours.

There is a special reading of “‘Twas the Night before Christmas,” photos with Santa and kids holiday arts and crafts.

Don’t miss the chance to see the Argosy Christmas Ship in person right here in Gig Harbor, as it will make its way to Skansie Brothers Park December 9 at 6:15pm.

Onlookers will also enjoy a live performance by the Olympia Youth Chorus Cantabile.

The Follow Boat experience is in another decorated vessel in the fleet and follows closely behind the Spirit of Seattle. You also get a photo with Santa, and children receive their

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Those who are unable to get on board can still be very much involved. Viewing parties are held each evening as the boats pass by, park and the choir’s performance is broadcast to shore.

Each performance lasts about 20 minutes, and there will be a community bonfire, lighting or other special event each evening.

For a list of pricing, availability and onshore party schedules, you can visit ArgosyCruises. com.

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS DEC

07

St. Anthony Holiday Bazaar The Holiday Bazaar is an opportunity for local and surrounding city crafters, jewelry makers and artists to sell and display their unique, hand-crafted and creative merchandise. Held on the ground floor of St. Anthony's Hospital 9am to 4pm, admission is free.

DEC

DEC

DEC

07-08

08

08

Holiday Hayrides with Santa

Lighted Boat Parade

Winter Wonderland Pancake Breakfast

You can find Santa and his wagon in front of Timberland Bank on Judson Street 4:30 to 7:30pm on December 7 and 8 for Holiday Hayrides with Santa. While you wait your turn, step inside the bank, where there will be cider and cookies.

Hayrides are provided by Miracle Ranch.

GigHarborWaterfront.org.

Presented by the Gig Harbor Yacht Club, the annual Lighted Boat Parade is an event you won't want to miss, as beautifully decorated and brightly lit boats including fishing vessels, pleasure boats and kayaks make their way down the harbor starting at 5pm. All area boaters are welcome to participate, whether or not you are members of Gig Harbor Yacht Club.

Register online at GigHarborYC.com or by sending your name, boat name and length, and email address to ghyclightedparade@gmail.com.

The annual Winter Wonderland Pancake Breakfast is free for the entire family and benefits FISH Food Bank (everyone is asked to bring a non-perishable food item to donate). Held at Gig Harbor High School, breakfast, a performance from Vaughn Elementaryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Choir, holiday crafts and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus are on the menu! There will also be a holiday beverage table hosted by Saint Nicholas Catholic Church youth group. All are welcome. Visit Facebook for additional information.

DEC

DEC

8,9,15

09

Peninsula Marketplace Holiday Show

Hark the Harbor

Find handcrafted gifts, festive decor, unique treasures, seasonal greenery and more! Live music, more than 40 local vendors including authors, artists, knitters, jewelry makers, potters, fishermen, bakers, toy makers, metal crafters, concrete sculptures, plants and more makes this an exciting shopping destination. Admission is free. PeninsulaMarketplace.com

Gather with family and friends under the Pavilion at Skansie Brothers Park starting at 5:30pm, where you'll enjoy community caroling while waiting in anticipation of the arrival of the Argosy Christmas Ship. Family oriented entertainer and accomplished musician Sharon Stearnes will lead carolers with joyful holiday carols. Songbooks and candles will be provided. GigHarborWaterfront.org

Upcoming Events - January 05 13 11PARADISE THEATRE PRESENTS THE FEB. DIARY OF ANNE FRANK GigHarborLivingLocal.com 106

PIER INTO THE NIGHT WITH LIVE DIVE

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Mon-Sat. 10am to 8pm Sun. 11am to 6pm Hwy 16 to Exit 10 Olympic Drive to 4701 Pt Fosdick Drive Gift Cards Available at: www.uptowngigharbor.com

DEC

Light Up the Night: 5th Annual St. Lucia Festival

14 DEC

Join the Harbor History Museum Friday, December 14, 5 to 6:30pm, for the fifth annual Light Up the Night: St. Luciaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Festival. The evening will begin with the St. Lucia Procession and will be followed by an assortment of fun Scandinavianthemed activities, crafts and games taking place inside the Museum. Guests will also enjoy traditional Scandinavian treats, photo opportunities, story time and caroling. HarborHistoryMuseum.org

DEC

DEC

19

21

Sundae & Mr. Goessl: Home for the Holidays

Christmas Jazz Concert

Live Music with Jessica Lynne

Come listen to the music as Morso hosts Sundae + Mr. Goessl Saturday, December 15 starting at 8pm.

Seattle's premier vintage duo features Kate Voss on vocals and Jason Goessl on guitar. The intimate venue is perfect for listening to these amazing performers. Tickets are $20 each. Seating is limited, so call 253.530.3463 to get your tickets today.

MorsoWineBar.com

The bells are ringing and the jazz singers are singing!

Join Ocean 5 in the Salish Lounge 6 to 9pm for for a Christmas Jazz Concert featuring the O5 Trio and special guest singer Jennifer Ivester! It's sure to be a great night of live music, wine, food and dancing.

Ocean5.com

Join Olalla Winery Friday, December 21, 6:30 to 8:30pm, for a live musical solo performance by Jessica Lynne. The show is free, and you must be 21 or older to attend. As seating is limited to just 35 people, guests must register to get on the list. For more information, call 253.851.4949. Register online at OlallaWines.com.

15

DEC

DEC

22

31

Jewel Box Nutcracker

3rd Annual Noon Years Eve Party

Harbor Dance invites the community to join them as they present their very first Jewel Box Nutcracker.

The dancers have been working hard to bring this time honored, traditional ballet to Gig Harbor!

Held at Peninsula High School, audiences have two opportunities to see the show: 3:30 and 6:30pm.

General admission tickets are on sale now at TutuTix. com/HarborDance.

Join MarKee for their third annual Noon Years Eve Party 11:30am to 1:30pm. This family friendly event to celebrate the new year with a balloon drop and bubbles/sparkling cider toast at noon. Also enjoy a light lunch, family dance party, cookie decorating station, Lego station, photo booth.

Space is limited, so get your tickets early. Call MarKee at 253.649.4122 for more information.

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