January 2021 Gig Harbor Living Local

JANUARY 2021

LIVING LOCAL

A Healthy Spirit

Simple strategies to take back your health this year

People Who Inspire Gig Harbor’s extraordinary, everyday heroes

‘Gnome Man’

Gig Harbor’s ‘Turtle Man’ has a new project GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL

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SERVING GIG HARBOR

Pharmacy . Full Service Repair . Home Delivery . Exceptional Patient Care

Olympic Pharmacy and Healthcare Services has grown into a leading provider of medical supplies and equipment to the Puget Sound area. Our mission is to provide our customers with the highest quality products, exceptional customer service and to be an active participant in our patients’ healthcare and well being.

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.

4700 Pt. Fosdick Drive Northwest Gig Harbor, Washington 98335 (253) 858-9941 . Fax: (253) 851-9942

Because We Care.

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GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL

Happy New Year!

Thank you to all of our wonderful clients for an amazing 2020!

We are looking forward to serving our great community in 2021.

“Carolyn came highly recommended, and she did not disappoint!

She went above and beyond to sell our property in a very unusual market due to the pandemic. I have referred her and will continue to do so. She is the best! We love Westmoreland Properties!” - Gary & Lori

CAROLYN WESTMORELAND Broker/Owner | 253.961.5596 JENSEN WESTMORELAND Broker | 253.240.5514

Mark Wambold NMLS ID 248580 State Lic. MLO-248580 Direct: 253.225.3352 | mwambold@fairwaymc.com www.wamboldhomeloans.com

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.GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL

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Caring for a loved one with dementia can

you’re not alone.

We understand. We’re caregivers too.

Our compassionate team is uniquely trained to care for those living with dementia, Alzheimer’s and other cognitive impairments. Call today for support, resources or other information (253) 830-5107.

• • • • •

24-hour compassionate caregivers Short-term respite stays available Service plans designed to meet individual needs Outstanding memory programming and activities Enclosed outdoor courtyard with walking path & seating

7083 Wagner Way Gig Harbor, WA 98335 www.thelodge-gigharbor.com

• Assisted Living apartments

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Call today to schedule a tour!

(253) 830-5107 | www.thelodge-gigharbor.com | GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL

Gig Harbor Gig harbor estate resource Real Estate real Resource

SOLD 00

Average sales price

Fox Island | Sold $704,854 $1,950,000

Up $15,635 from November

es Price:

. ays On Market:

highest luxury sale

Downtown | SOLD $3,150,000 9 Days $2,100,000

average days on market

Up $540,212 from November

30 Up 17 days from November

$672,653

* Data collected from multiple listing services on December 18, 2020

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welcome home to your new gig harbor neighbors . . .

le in 3rd Quarter:

$3,100,000

What's Your Home Worth? www.key2see.com

key 2 see Team "Pairing innovation with Communication to create a long lasting trust so you can Enjoy Home"

awkins

key 2 see team

CJ Stewart

“Pairing innovation with communication to create a long-lasting trust so you can enjoy home.”

Whitney Johnsen

jennifer hawkins | cj stewart | whitney johnsen

what’s your home worth? www.key2see.com (253) 229. 1414

GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL

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You’ll feel right at home.

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3 5 2 0 K i t s a p Wa y, B r e m e r t o n 0 . 3HARBOR 7 7 . 5 5 8 2LIVING | a r n LOCAL oldshomefurnishings.com |3 6GIG

Arnold’s Home Furnishings has been serving the Kitsap Peninsula and beyond for more than 68 years.

We offer a tremendous selection of furniture for the living room, dining room and bedroom along with rugs, lamps and everything that makes a home. Known for our quality and superb customer service, Arnold’s can help you select your new furniture, mattress and home furnishings purchase on any budget.

Wishing you a wonderful and happy New Year!

“GREAT PEOPLE AND GREAT SERVICE! I BOUGHT MY HOUSE WITH THEM AND THEN REFINANCED A FEW YEARS LATER! THEY SAVED ME HUNDREDS MONTHLY AND GUIDED ME THROUGH THE PROCESS, LISTENING TO MY CONCERNS AND DESIRES.” - MARK GIG HARBOR

LOCAL, VETERAN-OWNED I N D E P E N D E N T M O RT G A G E S E RV I C E S

Abel Hernandez

MLO # 1718944 Loan Officer abel@northwestmortgageservices.com

Jeff Carr

MLO#102392 President jeff@northwestmortgageservices.com

info@northwestmortgageservices.com • NorthwestMortgageServices.com • 2 5 3 . 8 5 1 . 1 6 8 7 • 7 1 1 6 St i n s o n A v e . S u i t e A 2 0 5 , G i g H a r b o r, W A 9 8 3 3 5 NorthwestMortgageSer vices •

Abel_NWMortgage •

Northwest-Mortgage-Ser vices GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL

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We are excited to announce our

GRAND OPENING January 2021!

HEALTH & WELLNESS CENTER COMPOUNDING PHARMACY CELL CODE SUPPLEMENTS TAP ROOM

3216 Judson Street, Gig Harbor 360.473.MEDS (6337) | info@harborhealth.net Conrad Esser CEO & Nicholas Wyatt CPO 8

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GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL

MOVING FAMILIES & BUSINESSES FOR OVER 10 YEARS.

Call Us Today! 888.546.6820 www.coastmovers.com | coastmovers@yahoo.com | GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL

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JANUARY 2021 VOLUME 8 NUMBER 1

inside

A Successful 2021 Begins with You!

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How to lay out realistic goals for your personal and professional life

A Healthy Spirit Simple strategies to take back your health this year

Happy and Healthy Six popular—and effective—wellness lifestyle trends

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Live Life Smiling

Dr. Brian Dansie

Accepting New Patients!

Pediatric Dental Specialist

CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT WITH DR. BRIAN DANSIE AND HIS STAFF. 3316 56th ST. NW, STE. 100 | Gig Harbor, WA 98335 | 253.329.KIDS (5437) GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL frontdesk@thekidsdentistgh.com | thekidsdentistgigharbor.com

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Virtual chat with our design team, on the house. 253-376-7935

GIGHARBORLIVINGLOCAL.COM

MARKETING WASHINGTON EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Julie Reed | 253.273.8524 julie@like-media.com WASHINGTON DIRECTOR Cassie Riendeau | 360.798.3061 cassie@like-media.com

EDITORIAL EDITOR IN CHIEF Jillian Chandler | jillian@like-media.com STAFF WRITERS Colin Anderson | colin@like-media.com Abigail Thorpe | abigail@like-media.com

DESIGN CREATIVE DIRECTOR | Maddie Horton LEAD GRAPHIC DESIGNER | Darbey Russo GRAPHIC DESIGNER | Kennedy Pew GRAPHIC DESIGNER | Marisa Inahara DIGITAL CREATIVE DIRECTOR Whitney Lebsock

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS | Rachel Figgins

CONTRIBUTORS Jennifer "Taz" Vazquez, Felicia Soleil, Nancy Harris, Rachel Kelly, Conrad Esser, Nick Wyatt, Sarahlynn Etta, Bri Williams, Robina Gaines, Taylor Shillam, Marguerite Cleveland, Tina VanDenHeuvel

PHOTOGRAPHY Jim Castino, Gig Harbor Rotary, Roger Johnson, Darling Bud Photography, Marguerite Cleveland, Tina VanDenHeuvel, Samantha Elise Tillman, Diane Fetzner, Northern Quest

Resort & Casino, Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel

Let’s talk while you show us your space.

GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL MAGAZINE

is brought to you by Like-Media.com. If you would like to advertise with us please call 253.273.8524 or email julie@like-media.com. To submit articles, photos, nominations and events, email us at events@like-media.com.

We specialize in small spaces & big dreams. compact design, accessory dwelling units (ADUs), small footprint, cottage houses, aging in place, on-grid-off-grid, new build & remodel First consultation is complimentary.

BRETT MARLO DESIGN BUILD

b r e t t m a r l o. c o m / v i r t u a l 12

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GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL

LICENSE # BRETTMD892QP

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 Like Media, and no part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted without the permission of the publisher.

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New Year

Happy

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PUBLISHER’S

Note

A FRESH START Family First offers compassionate, quality, 24-hour care in a comfortable home setting.

• Caring and experienced medical team.

• Home physician and transportation to medical appointments provided.

• Entertaining activities for residents.

• Serving Gig Harbor and the surrounding community for 20 years.

T

he time has come. It’s what many of us have been longing for—for weeks, if not months now. 2021 has arrived, and now is the time to put the past behind us and say goodbye to 2020. Though the ongoing effects of the pandemic continue, it is up to each and every one of us to begin anew, look to the future with fresh eyes and open minds, and make this year one to remember—for the right reasons.

Each year, we tend to set ourselves up for failure, jotting down our many resolutions for the new year, rather than our goals.

Set yourself up for a successful 2021 in all aspects of your life. Personal goals.

Professional goals. No matter how small— or big—these goals might be, if you continue to work toward reaching them, only looking forward—never back—toward the ultimate prize, there’s a good chance you’ll succeed.

LIVING LOCAL’S

2020

WINNER

GIG HARBOR

GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL’S

LIVING LOCAL’S

2019

2018

2017

LIVING LOCAL’S

WINNER

L LIVING LOCA

WINNER

253.853.2033 julie@familyfirstafh.com

it A Healthy Spir

ies to take back Simple strateg year your health this

GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL

ire

People Who Insp

rdinary, Gig Harbor’s extrao everyday heroes

Proud To Partner

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Steve Russo Executive Director | steve@like-media.com

As you look across the harbor and witness its beauty, whether for the first or thousandth time, it is not hard to believe in better days ahead. Beauty inspires hope, and there's no time like the present to let go of the past and look to a future with dreams ready to be fulfilled. Here's to 2021 in Gig Harbor. And if you need some inspiration along the way, look no further than the harbor.

familyfirstafh.com

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Happy New Year! Let’s make 2021 a year to remember and look back on with pride.

ABOUT THE COVER

GIG HARBOR

WINNER

We at Like Media are grateful to have the opportunity to continue to bring you Gig Harbor Living Local each month, and we look forward to another year of sharing all the wonderful local stories, people and businesses that inspire us all each and every day.

In our first issue of 2021, we have articles to start your year off inspired, ready to embark on your new 365-day journey. From ways to incorporate healthy living into everyday routines and popular lifestyle trends for

JANUARY 2021

GIG HARBOR

2021, to how to lay out realistic goals for your personal and professional life, we've compiled some wonderful information to get you started on this year’s adventure to success.

‘Gnome Man’

Man’ Gig Harbor’s ‘Turtle t has a new projec GIG HARBOR

LIVING LOCAL

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Would you like to receive this issue and future issues in your inbox? Visit GigHarborLivingLocal.com and sign up for our FREE Digital Edition.

Happy

New Year

HELPING YOU MAKE SMART, INFORMED REAL ESTATE DECISIONS. Call THE JONES TEAM Today: 253.514.1988

Gary & Sandy Jones CO NNE CT WITH US

Debbie Mishko NMLS #109688 American Pacific Mortgage 5151 Borgen Blvd, Suite 101C, Gig Harbor, WA Branch NMLS #1370632 Cell: 360.239.1942

GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL

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GET CONNECTED WITH GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL!

dwellhometeam via

lovekitsap via

c_photons via

#GIGHARBORLIVING Your photos will show up on our Get Social page at

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

facebook.com/gigharborliving instagram.com/gigharborliving pinterest.com/LikeMedia_

LIFT OFF YOUR DIGITAL MARKETING WITH Social Media Management | SEO | Branding and Creative | Content Development | Website Building Reputation Management | Google Optimization | Podcast Production | And More JULIE REED Washington Executive Director | 253.273.8524 | julie@like-media.com

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GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL

INSURANCE BUILT FOR THE FUTURE.

PROTECT YOUR NEW BEGINNINGS Let’s talk about your plans, and how I can help you protect them.

WITH LIFE INSURANCE

Whether it’s a new minivan that fits your growing family or a downtown condo that matches your cosmopolitan dreams, I’m here with advice and resources to help you in your journey.

When a new chapter begins, get peace of mind by planning for the future. Because there’s no time like the present to financially protect their tomorrows.

INSURANCE FOR THE FUTURE. Let’s talk about finding BUILT life insurance that fits you.

Whether it’s a new minivan that fits your growing family or a downtown condo that matches your cosmopolitan dreams, I’m here with advice and resources to help you in your journey.

INSURANCE BUILT FOR THE FUTURE. UILT UILTFOR FORTHE THEFUTURE. FUTURE. INSURANCE BUILT FOR THE FUTURE. Let’s talk about your plans, and how I can help you protect them.

Let’s talk about your plans, and how I can help you protect them.

Whether it’s a new minivan that fits your growing family or a downtown condo that matches your cosmopolitan dreams, I’m here with advice and resources to help you in your journey. van that fits your growing family or an that van thatfits fitsyour yourgrowing growingfamily familyor or matches your cosmopolitan dreams, matches matchesyour yourcosmopolitan cosmopolitandreams, dreams, it’s a new minivan that fits your growing family or resources to help you in your journey. your dresources resourcesto tohelp helpyou youin inWhether yourjourney. journey. a downtown andhow howIIcan canhelp helpyou youprotect protect them. condo that matches your cosmopolitan dreams, them. s,,and I’m here with advice and resources to help you in your journey.

Let’s talk about your plans, and how I can help you protect them.

Timothy Lopez, Agent 7512 Stanich Ln Ste 2, Gig Harbor Bus: (253) 858-7200 Timothy Lopez, Agent tlope1@amfam.com

Timothy Lopez, Lopez, Agent Agent Timothy 7512Stanich StanichLn LnSte Ste2,2,Gig GigHarbor Harbor 7512 Bus:(253) (253)858-7200 858-7200 Bus: tlope1@amfam.com tlope1@amfam.com

7512 Stanich Ln Ste 2, Gig Harbor Timothy Lopez, Agent 7512 Ln Ste 2, Gig Harbor Bus: Stanich (253) 858-7200 Bus: (253) 858-7200 Timothy Lopez, Agent tlope1@amfam.com 7512tlope1@amfam.com Stanich Ln Ste 2, Gig Harbor Bus: (253) 858-7200 tlope1@amfam.com

American Family Mutual Insurance Company, S.I. & Its Operating Companies, American Family Insurance Company, American Family Mutual Insurance Company, S.I. & Its Operating Companies, American Family Insurance Company, 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI &WI 53783 ©2016 011780 –4/20 Rev. 4/20 –Insurance 12924130 American Family Mutual Insurance Company, S.I. Its Operating American Family Company, 6000 American Parkway, Madison, 53783 ©2016Companies, 011780 – Rev. – 12924130 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 ©2016 011780 – Rev. 4/20 – 12924130

merican Family Mutual Insurance Company, S.I. Its Operating Companies, American Family Insurance Company, merican mericanFamily FamilyMutual MutualInsurance InsuranceCompany, Company,S.I. S.I.&&&Its ItsOperating OperatingCompanies, Companies,American AmericanFamily FamilyInsurance InsuranceCompany, Company, 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 ©2016 011780 Rev. 4/20 12924130 6000 6000American AmericanParkway, Parkway,Madison, Madison,WI WI53783 53783©2016 ©2016011780 011780–––Rev. Rev.4/20 4/20–––12924130 12924130 American Family Mutual Insurance Company, S.I. & Its Operating Companies, American Family Insurance Company, 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 ©2016 011780 – Rev. 4/20 – 12924130

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CONTENTS 36

50

30 22

38

E S S E NTIA L S The latest tips and trends in home, garden, finances and life

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36

S T U DE NT S O F T HE MO N T H Recognizing the bright youth in our community

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L I F E & COMMU NITY

BUSIN E S S S P OT LIG HT

LIV ING LO CAL

Keep Our Gig Harbor Economy Going Strong: Pick 3. Spend 50.

PenMet Parks: Local parks system delivers extraordinary experiences

‘Gnome Man’: Gig Harbor’s ‘Turtle Man’ has a new project

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GO O D NE W S

Local Rotary’s Unwavering Service: Gig Harbor’s Rotary “order bombs” to support local business

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GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL

IN FOCU S

BU S IN E S S S P OT LIGH T

People Who Inspire: Gig Harbor’s extraordinary, everyday heroes

Tuladhara Yoga: Finding balance in body, mind and spirit

sneak peek into January ...

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106

60

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A H EALT HY S P IR IT Simple strategies to take back your health this year

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80

Tips and informational articles about living a healthy, active lifestyle

Six popular—and effective—wellness lifestyle trends

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84

HE A LTH & L IFE STYLE

T H E CA S I NO TR AIL Let's Live a Little:: Road-trip from Western Washington to Northern Idaho

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A S UCC E S S FUL 2021 BEGINS W I T H YO U !

How to lay out realistic goals for your personal and professional life

H APPY AN D HE ALT HY

TRAVE L & LE IS U R E

A Visit to a Southern Plantation: Relooking Louisiana’s River Road history through the eyes of the enslaved

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FO O D & DR IN K Your local guide to the tastiest hot spots around town

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F E AT U R E D R ECIP E Wild Alaskan Salmon Cakes with Lemon Tartar Sauce

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GIG H AR BO R LO CAL G U IDE

ART S & E N T E RTAINMEN T

Navigate where to stay, what to do, where to shop and more in this easy-to-follow business directory

Don’t miss out on these events and fun community happenings

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Listen to Your Inner 2-Year-Old

JUST SAY “NO!” TO RESOLUTIONS!

By Jennifer “Taz” Vazquez, Life Coach

H

ow many times in your life have you committed to making a New Year’s resolution? How far into the new year until you stopped?

I told myself what I should and shouldn’t do. Therefore, my inner critic was ready to cheer me on each time I failed. I’d blame myself (or make an excuse) for not following through.

Every year, we try to capture the magic and excitement of the holidays by creating well-meaning goals for the upcoming new year. We commit to major changes or pile on the “I should” type of resolutions.

I kept up this annual negative pattern until I said “yes” to creating (and doing) how I wanted to show up in this world. What a powerful shift in my mindset and intentions! I directed my energy, attention and time to something much more meaningful. I tapped into my own gifts, skills and knowledge; and it was easier asking for support.

I always had the best of intentions. I’d make a couple resolutions (lose 20 pounds, stop procrastinating). I’d even make them SMART objectives (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and timely). However, over time, the resolutions fell by the wayside.

This year, I recommend that you tap into your inner 2-year-old and just say “no” to resolutions!

It wasn’t that I lacked willpower or motivation. From the beginning, I set myself up for failure! My mindset wasn’t in alignment with the goals.

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The first step is to think of the type of person that embodies what you want to be like (instead of losing 30 pounds you want to be active and lead a healthy lifestyle). What would that person be doing to be active, healthy and happy that you like and want to do? Now with the overall vision of what (or who) you want to create, keep asking details about what it would look like, feel like, be like and act like what you want to create or be in this world.

s

for generations, haven of rest has been helping families achieve peace of mind through pre-planning their funeral and cemetery needs. call today to plan for yourself or your loved one.

We now offer Aquamation, a new and eco-friendly alternative to cremation!

253.851.9991

or

www.HavenRest.com 8503 State Route 16 NW., Gig Harbor, WA

more

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The calcium rich shell is also a natural weed and snail rk mulch mulch oror pavers pavers for for landscaping landscaping projects. projects.

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Locally sourced crushed Locally sourced oyster shell crushed is a clean oyster shell is a clean deterrent deterrent making making it ideal for for pathways pathways and and driveways. driveways.

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I directed my energy, attention and time to something much more meaningful. I tapped into my own gifts, skills and knowledge.

Next, what is one small action you can take now toward that lifestyle (given your life today)? Followed by asking, what can I commit to doing just for today (JFT)? By focusing your energy, skills, knowledge and creativity on what you will commit to just for that day, you are focusing on small consistent steps and taking forward action. Over time, those JFTs add up to big successes and transformations! Jason Goldberg illustrated JFT in his book, Prison Break, when he explained he didn’t lose 130 pounds; he lost 1 pound, 130 times.

Failing forward is also an integral part of learning and growing. Our path forward won’t be a straight line. We will take steps forward and back. But that is okay. Were we bad when we learned to walk and fell down? No, we got back up, tried again and kept going.

Enjoy the process and remember to recommit to a small action JFT toward what you want to create. You will be continually taking action and moving toward your vision.

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GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL

Lastly, focus on celebrating the small wins, lessons learned and consistent steps. You’ll reinforce the positive perspective and want to do more of it.

Creating daily, consistent small actions are easier and more effective than outcome-focused resolutions. When you focus on the process, you will see results.

What do you want to create in your life, and how do you want to show up in 2021?

“I help you discover what sets your soul on fire. Rediscover your power, beauty and creativity … and create how you want to show up in this world!”

Jennifer “Taz” Vazquez is a life coach, health and wellness, Veteran and Renaissance woman. She is also on the leadership team for Women Belong – Gig Harbor. You can reach her by email at dancingdogs2@hotmail.com or by calling 360.591.9256.

Jennifer Vazquez

Life Coaching I help you discover what sets your soul on fire ...

Rediscover your creativity, beauty and power!

Let’s create how you want to show up in this world!

Contact Me Today!

360.591.9256 dancingdogs2@hotmail.com

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New Year: New Challenge?

FAC I N G S E PA RAT I O N A N D D I VO R C E A S T H E Y E A R B E G I N S

By Felicia Soleil, Attorney/Mediator

D

oes the new year find yourself facing a change in your marriage? It is only natural that many couples want to see themselves and their families through the holidays and see the new year as an opportunity for a major transition they may have been putting off.

If this is your year to make such a change, I always first ask clients to consider: “If this is done well, what do you want it to look like when you are done?” Is your vision a successful co-parenting relationship with the other parent? Is it a feeling of financial independence? Is it peace in your heart that you treated your ex—and yourself—with dignity? Is it obtaining a feeling of “closure” as you set off on a new chapter of your life?

Here are some other questions to ask yourself as you begin: 1. Do you have common values that you can lean on when you have disagreements while negotiating your settlement? This might be a commitment to security for your children, which in practical terms can be reflected in comfortable housing, flexibility in scheduling or showing sustained optimism in the face of adversity. When children are not an issue, a common value might be preservation of financial security, such as an equitable distribution of accumulated retirement accounts or cash savings for a safety net and a new start.

2. How much emotional energy do you want to spend during the legal process of getting separated and divorced? This speaks to your choice of process, whether mediation, collaborative law or litigation.

You only have so much energy “in the bank,” so to speak. You’ll be making plenty of “withdrawals” during this transition apart from the legal aspects. What resources (support network, spiritual faith, selfcare routine, etc.) do you have for “replenishing” that account when the process itself poses further a drain on your emotions? When do you foresee the cost outweighing the benefit of continued argument over a particular issue, and when is a compromise a better option?

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3. What information do you have that you can verify, is your soonto-be-ex willing to voluntarily disclose relevant information you need, and how can you obtain information from third parties? In other words, now is the time to begin gathering the data you’ll need, such as tax returns, paystubs, account statements, real estate values, mortgage statements, loan and credit card statements, etc. You’ll want to begin to distinguish the facts from the emotions. Are you prepared to challenge yourself with making realistic choices for your situation?

4. When do I seek the help of a professional? As a divorce lawyer and mediator, my obvious answer to this question is “as soon as possible.”

That answer is not for my own job security. To the contrary, it is for your security. All too often, clients come to me after negotiating some agreements on their own based on erroneous information, much to their detriment. Issues like when to sell or refinance the family home, how to calculate child support and how it is paid, how pensions are handled and conflict-producing residential schedules for children are all examples of how clients have made things harder on themselves unnecessarily prior to obtaining professional help.

Wanting a peaceful transition for your children, being able to afford decent housing, maintaining a level of cooperation with a soon-tobe-ex and generally avoiding feeling “broke”—whether financially or emotionally—are all important goals. You don’t have to do it by yourself (or by relying on the internet!). If the new year finds you headed into a separation or divorce, know what strengths you bring to the table, and recognize when you need to ask for reliable help.

Felicia Soleil is a divorce mediator and family law attorney located in Gig Harbor. She helps her clients in achieving resolutions that foster both a compassionate ending to their union and a healthy new beginning so they can focus on moving on, rather than simply moving out. Felicia can be reached at 253.853.6940. All consultations are strictly confidential and currently conducted by appointment via videoconference or phone.

Building Better Solutions for Clients With almost 30 years experience serving families in Gig Harbor and Pierce County, Felicia Soleil provides more constructive alternatives to dissolving a marriage outside of a courtroom. In addition to her family law practice, she also provides mediation services, offering legal support, education & case management - from simple to complex - for separation and divorce, parenting plans, child support and prenuptial agreements.

Facing a divorce or separation? Felicia focuses on reducing and resolving conflict, helping you transition by moving on, not just moving out.

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Felicia A. Soleil, Attorney at Law and Mediator

253.853.6940 • FamilyLawResolutions.com • 7191 Wagner Way, Suite 303, Gig Harbor, WA GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL

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new foundation

PROTECT YOURSELF Watch out for coronavirus scams

wealth group

Courtesy of Nancy Harris, CMFC, CDFA President, Financial Planner, New Foundation Wealth Group

F

raudsters and scam artists are always looking for new ways to prey on consumers. Now they are using the same tactics to take advantage of consumers' heightened financial and health concerns over the coronavirus pandemic.

Federal, state and local law enforcement have begun issuing warnings on the surge of coronavirus scams and how consumers can protect themselves. Here are some of the more prevalent coronavirus scams that consumers need to watch out for.

Schemes related payments

to

economic

impact

The IRS recently issued a warning about various schemes related to economic impact payments that are being sent to taxpayers under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act.1 The IRS warns taxpayers to be aware of scammers who:

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NANCY HARRIS 253.318.4446 | NewFoundationWG.com 4423 Point Fosdick Dr., Ste. 208-2, Gig Harbor, WA Nancy Harris is a Registered Representative and Investment Advisor Representative of/and offers securities and investment advisory services solely through Equity Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC, 1200 Newport Center Dr., Ste. 270, Newport Beach, CA 92660. ESI operates as Vermont Equity Services in CO, MO, NH and WI. New Foundation Wealth Group is independent of Equity Services, Inc. unless otherwise noted. TC116196(0820)1.

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Fortunately, there are some things you can do to protect yourself from scams, including those related to the coronavirus pandemic: • Don't click on suspicious or unfamiliar links in emails, text messages and instant messaging services.

• Don't answer a phone call if you don't recognize the phone number—instead, let it go to voicemail and check later to verify the caller.

• Never download email attachments unless you can verify that the sender is legitimate.

• Keep device and security software up to date, maintain strong passwords and use multifactor authentication.

• Never share personal or financial information via email, text message or over the phone.

• Use words such as "stimulus check" or "stimulus payment" instead of the official term "economic impact payment"

• If you see a scam related to the coronavirus, be sure to report it to the FTC at FTC.gov/Complaint.

• Ask you to "sign up" for your economic impact payment check

1. Internal Revenue Service, IR-2020-64, April 2, 2020

• Contact you by phone, email, text or social media for verification of personal and/or banking information to receive or speed up your economic impact payment

Nancy Harris is a Registered Representative and Investment Adviser Representative of Equity Services, Inc. (ESI). Securities and investment advisory services are offered solely

by ESI, Member FINRA/SIPC, 1200 Newport Center Drive, Suite 270, Newport Beach, CA 92660, 949.836.7809. New Foundation Wealth Group is independent of ESI. Nancy Harris does not offer tax or legal advice. For advice concerning your own situation, please consult with your appropriate professional advisor.

TC118200(1120)1

Fraudulent treatments, vaccinations and home test kits The Federal Trade Commission is tracking scam artists who are attempting to sell fraudulent products that claim to treat, prevent or diagnose COVID-19.

Charity fraud

President, Financial Planner

Protecting yourself from scams

Many charitable organizations are dedicated to helping those affected by COVID-19.

Scammers often pose as legitimate charitable organizations in order to solicit donations from unsuspecting donors. Be wary of charities with names that are similar to more familiar or nationally known organizations.

Before donating to a charity, make sure that it is legitimate, and never donate cash, gift cards, or funds by wire transfer. The IRS website has a tool to assist you in checking out the status of a charitable organization at IRS.gov/Charities-and-Nonprofits.

TEACHER OF THE MONTH

By Colin Anderson

Jennifer Wisner Second- and Third-Grade Teacher Pioneer Elementary School

W

ith nearly two decades as a teacher, Jennifer Wisner is familiar with receiving new learning tools as technology continues to advance. This year, however, the amount of new tools was far greater than any other. “I have learned more tech tools [the first few weeks of this school year] than I even knew existed, and it has made me a better teacher,” she said.

the frustration, confusion, and eventually success that they are feeling. This helps me to adapt my lessons and look for creative solutions,” she said.

While she can explain things easily to her students, it gives Jennifer the most joy when she is able to take a step back and watch the students take control of their learning. “Those moments when they are so engaged in what they are exploring, that I become invisible; that is LIKE OUR when I know I have done my job well.”

As a second- and third“JUST grade teacher at Pioneer Elementary, Jennifer is one STUDENTS, WE AS who loves helping shape Jennifer emphasizes young minds. At Pioneer, TEACHERS HAVE curiosity within her all teachers, even those with classes and urges her the youngest of students, are FOUND THAT AS WE students to never outgrow always asking the kids to be outside-the-box thinkers, OVERCOME EACH OF that curiosity. For her, being curious means and that has definitely been a challenge for teachers this OUR CHALLENGES, asking questions before forming judgment. year too. That’s not to say It means questioning anyone is giving up just WE ARE SMARTER what is perceived as because things are running "normal." It implies that AND STRONGER a little bit different. “Just our understanding of like our students, we as PEOPLE." the world can change teachers have found that as and evolve. It means we we overcome each of our are life-long learners. “I have learned so challenges, we are smarter and stronger much in life and have been given so many people,” explained Jennifer. opportunities just by following what makes The unique challenges presented to me curious,” she said. “It has helped me to students this school year have allowed become a more empathetic person and has Jennifer to step into her students' shoes. allowed me to create pathways in my life “Since I am learning the technology right that I never could have imagined when I alongside them, I am able to experience was younger.”

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LIF

E & COMMUNIT

Y

KE EP OUR GI G HA RBOR EC ONOM Y GOING STRON G P IC K 3 . S P E N D 5 0 .

By Jillian C handler

I

t began with a blog post that was published on March 11, 2009.

With a desire to create a message both positive and achievable, The 3/50 Project was born.

The concept is a simple one: One. Ask yourself: What are three local Gig Harbor businesses that, if they were to close their doors tomorrow, I would sadly miss their presence? Two. When shopping, can I adjust my spending in order to allocate $50 to spend at each of these three businesses and shop with them? And there you have it. The 3/50 Project. It’s that simple.

Cinda Baxter is the founder and president of the 3/50 Project, LLC. Her simple concept has spread far and wide to the benefit of local economies—including right here in Gig Harbor.

At the beginning of each month, make a plan to choose three businesses you would like to show your support to. Whether it’s a restaurant, coffee shop, clothing store, art gallery or theater venue, you may just find your new favorite Gig Harbor business in the process.

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It is important to remember that for every $100 spent in Gig Harbor at locally owned independent businesses, $68 is returned back into our local economy. As a community, we can truly make a huge impact by where we choose to spend our hard-earned money. And the positive effects trickle down, as we are helping to support not only the business owners, but their employees and their families. And as many of our wonderful local businesses give back to local organizations and nonprofits, our dollars go well beyond the store we choose to spend it.

Let 2021 be the year to be more conscientious about all aspects of our lives, including our spending habits. If each one of us shows our financial support to those in our own community, the benefits are priceless.

If you are looking to find out more about the 3/50 Project, you can visit The350Project.net. A new—and free iPhone app, LookLocal, is now available to help you find those locally owned brick-and-mortar businesses in your area who have signed on as supporters of The 3/50 Project. Search locally owned businesses at home or on the road. The app is free to download and free to be listed.

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PHOTO BY FRANK OWEN SHAW

LOCAL ROTARY’S UNWAVERING SERVICE

G I G H A R B O R ’ S R O TA R Y “ O R D E R B O M B S ” T O S U P P O R T L O C A L B U S I N E S S

By Rachel Kelly

LOCAL BUSINESS CONTRIBUTES TO A THRIVING COMMUNITY, ONE THAT PURSUES POSITIVE CHANGE. LOCAL BUSINESS ALWAYS GIVES BACK. THEY ARE WORTHY OF OUR SUPPORT. 32

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N

o one could say that 2020 was “just another year.” It was full of challenges; challenges that are still reverberating into the new year. However, I think we’ve shown ourselves to be adaptable and inventive. The same has been true of the three Gig Harbor Rotary clubs, whose motto of “Service Above Self ” never wavered. Sure, how it played out may have changed, but the commitment itself did not. If anything, this last year was full of opportunity. From the celebration of longtime member Walt Paulson’s 38th year, to the support of local restaurants through “order bombing,” 2020 was a year for the books.

The Rotary of Gig Harbor has a long-time tradition of making world-wide change, from bringing clean water to rural areas in the world to funding cleft palate surgeries. However, it’s their commitment to the support of local business that resounds in our community. And with 120 members adopting a motto of service, their support and initiatives can rally long-lasting impact. This last year was unique in that it brought us all closer to home. The same was true for the Rotary Clubs. Pre-pandemic, the

morning Rotary Club had a habit of supporting local restaurants through monthly patronage.

Once monthly they would meet and eat at varying locations in the downtown and greater Gig Harbor, showing their support for their local community.

This last year, however, dining in large groups became impossible. And yet, restaurants were in need of local support more than ever. At the time, takeout was a less popular way of dining. For some, ordering takeout was even novel. Many community members had contented themselves with eating from home, and restaurants around the area were suffering. So club member Jim Castino came up with an idea. Instead of dining in, Rotary members would take out. And instead of dining once a month, they would dine once a week. He called the initiative “order bombing” and included all three clubs in the effort.

Their first patronage was Moctezuma’s. Jim contacted the restaurant ahead of time to ask which days were their slowest, and then decided on a date to expect the arrival of Rotary Club members. Jim

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THIS LAST YEAR WAS FULL OF OPPORTUNITY. FROM THE CELEBRATION OF LONGTIME MEMBER WALT PAULSON’S 38TH YEAR, TO THE SUPPORT OF LOCAL RESTAURANTS THROUGH “ORDER BOMBING,” 2020 WAS A YEAR FOR THE BOOKS.

then spread the word through their Rotary website (called ClubRunner), sharing various details such as date, location and the restaurant they would be ordering from. Members ordered an additional 40 to 50 takeout orders on that day. Members had fun posting pictures of themselves picking up their takeout orders and posting online, spreading the word and making it fun. After their initial success, the Rotary Club began to “order bomb” throughout the community. They attempted to include not just downtown, but the greater Gig Harbor community as well. “It’s all Gig Harbor,” says Jim Castino of Gig Harbor Rotary, who initiated order bombing. Though he’s sure that the Rotary may have missed some restaurants, he hopes that the effort sparked even greater local initiative for restaurant support.

Thankfully, the local patronage didn’t stop there! The Rotary Clubs of Gig Harbor partnered with the Downtown Business Alliance to patronize retail. For six weeks, various local businesses were highlighted to the larger community. The initiative, sparked by the rich relationship already present between Gig Harbor Rotary and the Downtown Business Alliance, only just wrapped up last month. In fact, the Rotary Clubs of Gig Harbor have an online fundraising auction coming up in March themed: “The Best Tastes of Gig Harbor.” This will not only support and highlight local Gig Harbor businesses who donated to the auction, but it helps to fund future Rotary Club initiatives. The auction is a perfect example of how the support of local business is symbiotic. Local business contributes to a thriving community, one that pursues positive change.

Local business always gives back. They are worthy of our support.

However, the pandemic persists. So what’s next for Gig Harbor Rotary?

Jim says that they’re thinking of dedicating a Take-Out Tuesday (or Thursday), with a list of local restaurants to choose from. Now, so far in 34

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the year, we’ve all become pros at ordering online or over the phone for pick-up. We’ve all discovered our favorite places to “dine out,” whether that be in front of the fire or on the waterfront. But with a dedicated day of the week, and reminders on the Rotary website, Jim thinks they can consistently keep the local support going.

It is with newfound innovation and tried and true compassion that we charge into the new year. Sure, we may do so with a little more trepidation than we did last year. However, whatever this year has to throw at us, we know we can handle it. We will continue to hold fast to the relationships that we have invested in. In faith, we delve into the integrity of our community, sure that there will be someone to catch us if or when we fall.

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A Love of Yoga and Community Finding balance in body, mind and spirit

BY JILLIAN CHANDLER

TULADHARA YOGA STUDIOS 4641 Point Fosdick Drive Gig Harbor, Washington 98335 253.244.9056 TuladharaYoga.com

“Our vision is to create a safe space that allows students to find balance— body, mind and spirit.”

A

licia Barret opened her first yoga studio—Tuladhara Yoga—in Lakewood, Washington, in 2016, followed by her Tacoma location in the heart of the Proctor District. And just this past November, she was excited to announce the addition of her third location, right here in Gig Harbor!

Founded out of her love of yoga and love of community, the name Tuladhara comes from the ancient Sanskrit word Tula, meaning balance. “Our vision is to create a safe space that allows students to find balance—body, mind and spirit,” shares Alicia. “We believe there is a yoga practice that is right for ‘Every Body.’”

With three locations, the community will find a complete yoga platform that allows students to live-stream classes or watch recorded classes with the largest library of recorded classes by local teachers in the South Sound. Students—from beginners to experienced yogis, and everyone in between—will be guided by some of the most experienced teachers in the area, who also lead Tuladhara Yoga’s internationally certified teacher training program. In addition, they also host continuing education workshops for yoga teachers to further their development.

“All of our studios are bright and welcoming. We honor diversity and pride ourselves in creating an environment that is friendly, focused on service and centered around community,” smiles Alicia. “We believe yoga is about more than just the postures, but also meditation, breath and philosophy.

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It is important for Alicia to be able to provide classes to everyone in the communities she serves. That is why she provides: at least one slidingscale community donation class per week; a host of workshops including south bath meditation, yoga and live music, and many more; chair yoga for more mature yogis, and kids yoga for their up-and-coming yogis; and mobile yoga, in which they bring yoga and meditation onsite to the workplace, businesses such as retirement homes or hotels, or for special events.

Once they are able to open their doors again to practice in the studio, Alicia says they will offer a donation-based community class at their Gig Harbor location “and look forward to participating in the community where we are most needed!”

Alicia was inspired to pursue her passion of yoga—and share it with her community—because of her personal, and beneficial, experience with the transformation and healing power of yoga. “I believe we have everything we need inside of us to be happy, but we have to quiet our minds and be present to fully realize that happiness and contentment.”

She finds true fulfillment to have been afforded the opportunity to hold a space for students to breathe, explore and come home to themselves.

“There are so many skills that we learn through yoga that can really

improve our lives, health and mindset,” she affirms.

“I also love being a part of the development of current and future yoga teachers.”

Now the owner of three studios, Alicia attributes the success her businesses have experienced thus far to her amazing team of teachers and staff, who represent the practice of yoga with authenticity and commitment. “They truly bring our studio vision to life.”

Alicia grew up in University Place and later attended Western Washington University in Bellingham before moving to Sacramento, California, for work, where she remained for a decade. After accepting a promotion, she relocated to Vancouver, BC. She soon found her way back home to Washington state, moving to Gig Harbor in 2017 after meeting her life partner. “I love Gig Harbor and feel fortunate to live in such a beautiful place. I love the picturesque waterfront, the community’s focus on fitness and health, and the friendly tight-knit community feel,” she says.

The year is new, and what better time than now to seek balance in mind, body and spirit. Alicia and her wonderful staff invite you to experience all they have to offer at Tuladhara Yoga Studios in Gig Harbor.

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GIG HARBOR IN FOCUS

PEOPLE WHO INSPIRE GIG HARBOR’S EXTRAORDINARY, EVERYDAY HEROES

BY ABIGAIL THORPE

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38 38

e often look to celebrities, CEOs or Pulitzer Prize winners for inspiration and guidance on how to live life right, as though these are the people who somehow hold the answers. But the truth is, it’s the everyday, seemingly “ordinary” people in our lives, workplaces and cities who show us what it means to live a life full of positivity, thankfulness and joy. We run into them every day, those often unsung heroes who bring a ray of sunshine into our day, lend a helping hand or give us a fresh perspective on life.

people who, despite the hardships and challenges of the times, continue to inspire, remain positive and pass that positivity onto others.

In Gig Harbor, there are many of these extraordinary, everyday people who often think of others before themselves. Here are a few of the

His wife and three children, as well as his passion for the area he grew up in, keep him committed to the future of the community. “Motivation comes from your surroundings, and what better

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Chuck Cuzzetto “Although the area has grown in numbers, the same charm of walking downtown and greeting people as you pass remains,” says Chuck Cuzzetto, a native of Gig Harbor who grew up on Fox Island. “This is an area that always calls you home.”

community than the greater Gig Harbor area to provide that positive feeling you need to keep engaged. My passion runs deep for community connection,” he explains.

Almost six years ago, Cuzzetto achieved his lifetime dream: working for PenMet Parks.

Currently serving as their marketing specialist, Cuzzetto’s motivation and positivity is fueled by the community he serves: the businesses who open their doors and arms, the school district that strives to always communicate, and the support of families who love Gig Harbor.

His work with PenMet Parks and service as PTA president and on the Chamber of Commerce

Board have shown him firsthand that it takes passion and dedication to make the community the best it can be. For him, it was the realization one day that he “wanted to make sure everyone around me had a champion in one way or another,” he explains.

This is what drives his commitment to interact and connect in creative and compassionate ways.

“It's a sense of uplifting one another no matter the cost and going to bed thinking, “What can I do next?’” he shares.

Karrie Polinsky Karrie Polinsky’s motto is “Just one box at a time,” and for good reason. She oversees three

retail stores in Gig Harbor while still finding the time to support and encourage those around her. She’s lived in Gig Harbor almost her entire life, and eight years ago she met “her amazing person,” Michele Henery, who had just moved to the harbor and was about to open a store downtown called Tickled Pink, which Polinsky now manages.

Polinksy is naturally positive—for her there is no good in focusing on the negative, as it doesn’t solve the issue. Polinsky believes in continuing to move forward, despite the challenges and tests life throws at you; there is always a positive light at the end. Just focus on one “box”—or thing—at a time, and you’ll get through. “I give

that same encouragement to my neighbors that I work with, our downtown waterfront community,” she says. “I like to encourage them.

The better we can do as a community all tied together, the stronger we are.”

Polinsky’s parents helped instill that strong work ethic and drive in her since birth, and she continues to learn from her mother each and every day. It’s foundational to how she treats the people in her life. “Never give up and always be humble,” shares Polinksy. “It is always a team effort, and no one can do everything alone; it does take a village. I can take out the garbage just like everyone else.”

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Tim Olson Tim Olson and his family have been a part of the Gig Harbor community since 2016, when they first opened 9Round Fitness and made the harbor their home. Since that time, they’ve made incredible connections within the community, formed new relationships, and experienced what it means when a community comes together to support its businesses and families. “The community has displayed fantastic patience, optimism and encouragement!” shares Olson.

Olson learned his resilience and courage from his mom Karen, Gig Harbor's Cottesmore’s resident president. When facing tests or trials, it’s important to have “strength to show adversity your joyful smile,” says Olsen.

“Being an entrepreneur puts your heart and soul into your passions and positive morale becomes essential,” explains Olson. “Unexpected adversity creates an opportunity to make solutions. Your setback can be a setup for a great comeback. If you don’t ever get knocked down, you won’t know what getting up feels like. It’s the getting back up that motivates me.”

For Olson, it’s about living life—and enjoying it along the way!

Lauren Picard Lauren Picard grew up surrounded by the beauty of Gig Harbor and the Pacific Northwest, but it took moving away after college and returning four years later for her to fully appreciate the beauty and sense of community that Gig Harbor has created.

As the public outreach and coordination marketer for Tim Lopez Agency - American Family Insurance, the Young Professionals’ co-chair president, and a Gig Harbor Chamber of Commerce Ambassador, Picard is committed to seeing her hometown grow while preserving its charm, natural resources and history.

“Having grown up here, I have a fierce sense of responsibility and desire to see our local small businesses thriving,” she explains. “I personally witness daily acts of kindness here in Gig Harbor, and it’s part of what keeps me going.”

Picard has found exercise and getting out in nature are a huge part of keeping a positive outlook. “Working to maintain a positive headspace is a daily practice, and it’s something I have to work really hard at,” she says.

She’s been living by a few pieces of advice lately, one of them to work out—

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she never walks away upset. “I adore this community and want to put my best foot forward, and being physically strong directly correlates to that mental toughness I need to stay optimistic.”

Growing up in Gig Harbor, she was encouraged to get out and explore nature every single day, rain or shine. “In doing so, we recognized our ability to either take away or enrich a space, figuratively and literally.”

In their individual ways, Cuzzetto, Polinsky, Olson and Picard each show what it means to show up and be a member of your community. They are all committed to Gig Harbor, to the people who live here, and to sharing a spirit of positivity and unity. Along with many others in the community, they are the reason Gig Harbor feels like home.

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STUDENTS OF

BY COLIN ANDERSON

"She taught our class the value of empathy, kindness and caring for others and used her class to create unity, connections and friendship."

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ome students put extra hours in the weight room or with a personal trainer. Others choose to work with an outside choral or music instructor. When you develop a passion for something, bringing out the best of your ability is something many want but only few have the discipline and determination for.

Alexa Donion is one of those people. On top of being a busy junior at Gig Harbor High School, Alexa devotes much of her available time to one of her life’s great passions. “I have been a competitive Irish dancer for 11 years and am currently competing at the regional and national level. I train three to four hours per day in hopes of qualifying for the World Championships,” she explained.

While her goal of competing against the best Irish dancers in the world is a personal one, Alexa is also a firm believer in making her surroundings and community a better place.

She gives credit to Goodman Middle School teacher Mrs. Kaiser for helping inspire her to

spread goodwill and positivity. “She taught our class the value of empathy, kindness and caring for others and used her class to create unity, connections and friendship,” explained Alexa. “She helped challenge me to reach new heights and take on projects I would never have had the courage to pursue alone.”

Alexa has a goal of completing one or two community projects each year. For the past five years she has handmade anywhere from 60 to 100 Christmas cards that she delivers to the Children’s Hospital so she might brighten the holidays for those who might be suffering. “Mrs. Kaiser will continue to be an inspiration for me as I continue to search for ways to benefit those around me.”

Another way Alexa hopes to help others is by following her parents and older brother to the University of Washington and eventually its medical school. “My current occupational interest is becoming a pediatrician. I have always loved working with kids and helping those around me. This job would provide an opportunity for both and would also incorporate my interest in science and biology,” she said. Alexa says she loves science because she finds it intriguing to learn the specifics of how organisms and life work, specifically DNA, cells and human biology. Alexa holds a 4.0 GPA and wants to continue to be involved in leadership classes and projects at her school while working to improve the social and academic environment at Gig Harbor High.

THE MONTH “I have always been passionate about math and science because I enjoy the complexity of it. I love the feeling of solving a problem or making a breakthrough during a lab.”

HOPE FLANIGAN, SENIOR

Peninsula High School

N

ot one to take the easy route, Peninsula High School senior Hope Flanigan continues to challenge herself in 2021 with eyes on the not-so-distant future. Hope carries a 4.0 GPA and has so since the early days of middle school. This includes As in honors courses and college-level Advanced Placement classes. “I have always been passionate about math and science because I enjoy the complexity of it. I love the feeling of solving a problem or making a breakthrough during a lab,” she said.

Hope’s rigorous class schedule is just the beginning of her very full plate. She’s heavily involved in student government, having been a senator for three years. This school year she serves as senate commissioner.

Hope is involved in both the Honor Society and the Interact Club as well. She’s lettered multiple times with the school’s swim and dive team and was named captain her senior

season. Hope has made it to districts three times and is a two-time state competitor in diving and placed seventh at the most recent state competition. She enjoys community service and staying involved in other projects outside of school as well. “I participate in Girl Scouts, where I have earned my bronze and silver awards, and I also coach gymnastics at NASA Gymnastics,” she said.

With all the commitments, Hope is continually learning how to properly balance all of her assignments and obligations. She believes the experience is something she can learn from and carry with her after graduation. “With in-person learning, we have dedicated time to work on assignments, but at home, it is up to you to make your own schedules and keep yourself on track, so that is something new that has been a challenge to overcome. This new way of learning is helping me grow as a student and better preparing me for a college environment,” she said.

Hope is currently applying to several schools along the West Coast and Canada, and is considering a career in the medical field so she can be of help and service to others. “I am interested in becoming either a pediatrician or a physician’s assistant. I want to use these careers to travel the world, learning from medical professionals in different countries and assisting with providing care to a variety of people through an organization like Doctors Without Borders,” she said.

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‘GNOME MAN’ Gig Harbor’s ‘Turtle Man’ Has a New Project

BY COLIN ANDERSON

T

here is a secret Gnome Village in Gig Harbor. Few know about it, but if you walk the Cushman Trail and pass Wilkinson Park, you have come close to finding it. Roger Johnson is best known as the “Turtleman of Gig Harbor” because one of his hobbies is to make brightly colored stone turtles and give them away to people he sees doing acts of kindness. There’s a decent chance that you’ve seen one of Roger’s colorful turtles either at a downtown business, a medical facility, or in a friend or loved one's home.

“I typically make and give away two of my rock turtles each week, and considering that I've been doing this for 10 years, I've given away at least 600," Roger shares.

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Each turtle is a unique work of art, and although he continues to make them, he has found himself immersed in another unique art project.

In June of 2018, Roger and his wife Elizabeth moved into a new home in Gig Harbor that backs up to the east edge of Wilkinson Park. During a storm, a massive Madrone tree broke and fell close to their home. “The damaged tree had now become an eminent threat to our home, so I hired a professional tree faller to cut it down to just 10 feet tall so that I had the option to build myself a tree house someday." During a drive to Port Townsend, Elizabeth spotted a stump in a yard that had a door, a shingled roof, and flower pots hanging from the sides. She pointed and said, “There! That's what you should do to our Madrone.”

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Similar to spreading smiles through his turtle giveaways, Roger will invite people off the trail to come take a look at his Secret Gnome Village.

A week later, Roger had decorated his stump much the same way— with a temporary peaked roof, a small door and several painted bird houses. Voila! Roger was now inspired to build a real gnome village atop several tree stumps left over from when the land was cleared. He began the project with an extensive internet research for designs and decided to begin with the shortest of the three stumps. Being an “old hand” at innovation, Roger built walls of sticks and wire mesh, and then covered this framework with mortar to mimic tree bark. He built a rock chimney, covered the roof with miniature shake shingles, and used terracotta pots for the door and windows. With a hand on the roof, Roger says, “This first gnome home took me from spring to fall to build, but now that I understand the process and the various materials involved, I could transform most any tree stump into a gnome home in a month."

That was 2019, and fortunately, Roger did not stop at just one gnome home. He decided that the second and third homes needed to be more complex. For the roofs, he ordered large sugar pine cones, broke them apart and used the scales for shingles. There's a rope ladder, a snaking

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stairway with a rope handrail, and even an arched bridge between the two stumps that is home to a hungry troll. Roger populates the village with gnomes and fairies he finds at garage sales and thrift stores but would welcome "gift gnomes" from visitors.

On sunny days when Roger is working in his backyard, hikers will often stop to greet him. Similar to spreading smiles through his turtle giveaways, Roger will invite people off the trail to come take a look at his Secret Gnome Village. Everyone is amazed at the attention to detail, and everybody takes photographs to send to loved ones. “Several people have offered to pay me to build them a gnome home on their tree stump, but I explain that I don't have that kind of time. I will, however, give them advice on how to do it themselves. I would love to see more gnome villages start springing up all over Gig Harbor and the nearby communities."

Keeping busy and providing smiles is what it’s all about for Roger. If you're lucky, you’ll still find him handing out turtles around town. While

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he’s not sure what project he’ll do next, it’ll definitely be something that brings joy to friends, family and the people of Gig Harbor. “Looking back at my overlapping careers as a Navy helicopter pilot for 21 years, as a firefighter for 27 years, as a professional cartoonist for 12 years and an author of 14 novels, God has blessed me with a wonderful life. Now, Lord willing, it's time to spread those blessings to others through my novels, as I give away my turtles, and as I share my Gnome Village with my community.”

Roger welcomes anybody reading this article to come and enjoy his Secret Gnome Village in person— especially those with children they wish to inspire by his unique art form. To request a personal visit, you can email him at hiouchicap@comcast.net.

"I would love to see more gnome villages start springing up all over Gig Harbor and the nearby communities."

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Connecting Community Local parks system delivers extraordinary experiences

BY JILLIAN CHANDLER

PENMET PARKS 5717 Wollochet Drive Northwest Gig Harbor, Washington 98335 253.858.3400 PenMetParks.org

“We are committed to providing top-level park and recreation services that make the Gig Harbor Peninsula an amazing place to live.”

O

n May 18, 2004, the Peninsula Metropolitan Park District was formed— and the opportunities this would create for those living and visiting the Gig Harbor Peninsula would soon flourish.

For nearly 17 years, the Park District has provided for the management, control, improvements, maintenance and acquisition of parks and recreation facilities within the area of unincorporated Pierce County west of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge and east of the Purdy Bridge (excluding the City of Gig Harbor). The mission of the Peninsula Metropolitan Park District is to enhance the quality of life by providing parks and recreation opportunities for our community.

The Peninsula Metropolitan Park District comprises some of the most beautiful parks and the finest recreation programs in the Pacific Northwest. “Whether you are observing passing whales at Narrows Park, biking the Cushman Trail or participating in one of our athletic leagues, PenMet Parks has something for everybody,” smiles Chuck Cuzzetto of the Peninsula Metropolitan Park District.

Witnessing local residents and visitors alike enjoying the parks and services PenMet Parks provides is truly inspiring to Chuck and the PenMet Parks team.

“From the smiles that adorn a family’s face while playing on one of our many

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playgrounds or making memories that will last a lifetime when learning how to ride a bike in at one of our parks; every moment shared with us inspires and drives us to deliver extraordinary life experiences to our community.”

The Gig Harbor Peninsula has consistently been rated as one of the most livable communities—known for its remarkable atmosphere, natural beauty and exceptional waterfront access. “PenMet Parks is honored to contribute services to the Greater Gig Harbor residents and visitors from around the world,” shares Chuck. “We are committed to providing toplevel park and recreation services that make the Gig Harbor Peninsula an amazing place to live.”

One of the aspects Chuck enjoys most when it comes to being a part of the local business community is PenMet’s role as a community connector.

They are always looking for ways to partner with organizations and connect with local businesses. “In turn, just like you would at a summer camp, those businesses make friendships that will last a lifetime,” he says.

PenMet Parks would not be where they are today if it were not for the

top-notch talent and dedication provided by their staff while serving our community. As Chuck explains, they go above and beyond to make sure everyone in the Gig Harbor community has a pleasant experience. “Our Parks Services team is always happy to help lend a hand or give a wave to a passerby; they keep our facilities looking sharp for all to enjoy,” he says.

PenMet Parks is governed by five passionate park commissioners, whose passion and devotion to the district’s parks and recreation services support mission-driven success. From the creative ways the Recreation Services team puts remarkable programs and leagues together or the gorgeous topography of their parks, the true successes are in the people they serve, Chuck shares.

“PenMet passion runs deep. Not only does our staff strive to give back to the community on behalf of PenMet Parks, but our staff volunteer all over our community,” he adds. “We have those in parks services who dedicate time to teaching guitar; some take time to mentor teens and youth; others take part in cleaning up our local trails and open spaces. The team here at PenMet Parks truly takes to heart the passion of our community and what it takes to make our area a wonderful place to live.”

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THREE THINGS TO CONSIDER Choosing a Compounding Pharmacy or Health-Care Facility that Compounds Medications

By Conrad Esser, CEO and Nicholas Wyatt, CPO, Harbor Health and Apothecary

C

ompounding pharmacies are involved in the process of compounding medications for the specific needs of individual patients and pets. Unlike the "one size fits all" of traditional manufactured medications, appropriately compounded medications require specialized equipment, facilities, processes and trained pharmacy staff. Choosing a compounding pharmacy is likely something you have not thought about until you or a loved one has a need for a compounded medication. So, what should you look for when choosing a compounding pharmacy?

In order to avoid this harm, it is paramount that the compounding pharmacy you work with has a robust quality assurance and quality control program.

You should ask questions about their sterile and nonsterile compounding process, from start to finish. Here are three important questions to ask to get a better understanding of a compounding pharmacy's quality program.

Quality

1. Are the bulk ingredients that are being used supplied by an FDA-approved distributor? The compounding pharmacy should obtain its bulk ingredients from wholesalers that are registered with the FDA. The active pharmaceutical ingredients used in compounded medications should be USP (United States Pharmacopeia) grade, which are guaranteed to be safe and effective.

Quality matters. Compounding medications is a complex process, and without the appropriate equipment, facilities and trained team, the end result could cause the patient harm.

2. What quality control checks are used prior to, during and after the compounded process? The compounding pharmacy should be sampling products prior to, during and after the compounding process to ensure a high-

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A HEALTHY START TO 2021!

If a healthier lifestyle is on your list, be sure to gradually work new habits into your routine. Begin with something as simple as incorporating more water into your diet each day. After a week or so, begin to focus on the foods you are consuming, opting for more fresh, less processed, foods.

From there, introduce exercise and movement. You're more likely to see desired results when building healthy habits over time—reinventing your lifestyle for a healthier, and happier, you!

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LIVE YOUR HEALTHIEST LIFE

quality compounded medication is produced.

Ingredients received by the compounding pharmacy are accompanied with a certificate of analysis (COA). The COA gives information about the testing results for the ingredient (i.e. purity, potency, impurities, etc.). During the compounding process, the compounding pharmacy should be performing quality checks (i.e. ingredient sampling, compound mixture sampling, visual sampling, chemical property sampling, etc.). After the compounding process, the compounding pharmacy should be testing for potency and stability of the product.

3. Have they validated their compounding processes? Just because the compounding pharmacy is getting ingredients from FDAapproved distributors, only using USP-grade APIs, and performing quality control checks throughout the compounding process, there still could be issues with the quality of the compounded product if the compounding process is not validated. Compounding pharmacies should be validating their compounding processes by evaluating each stage of the compounding process.

Experience Compounder experience matters.

Compounding a medication is a complex process. The pharmacists and pharmacy technicians involved in the compounding process need to have the experience and training required to compound medications.

Compounding pharmacies will often show the experience and training of their team on the "About Us" section of their website. If they do

not have team member bios on their website, you should ask about their team’s experience. How many total years of compounding experience does the team have? Where did the individual team members obtain their pharmacy degree?

What type of certifications does the team hold?

How does the team stay up to date? These are all important questions to ask.

Certification Finally, Pharmacy Compounding Accreditation Board accreditation is important. PCAB is an accreditation body that certifies compounding pharmacies who have shown the appropriate policies, procedures and processes are in place to ensure high-quality compounded medications are produced. The PCAB accreditation seal lets you know the compounding pharmacy is in compliance with nationally accepted standards for compounding pharmacies.

We are excited to welcome the Gig Harbor Community to our GRAND OPENING, JANUARY 2021!

COMPOUNDING PHARMACY HEALTH & WELLNESS CENTER CELL CODE SUPPLEMENTS

When so much is at stake, it is important that you choose a compounding pharmacy that you can trust. The foundation of trust starts with open transparency. Prior to choosing a compounding pharmacy, take the time to find out about their quality, experience and certifications. At Harbor Health and Apothecary, it is important to us that you receive the highest quality compounded medications. When the time comes for you or a loved one needing a compounded medication, we hope that we can be your trusted source for compounded medications.

Conrad Esser is CEO and Nick Wyatt is Chief Pharmacist of Harbor Health and Apothecary in Downtown Gig Harbor.

3216 Judson Street, Gig Harbor 360.473.6337 | info@harborhealth.net Conrad Esser CEO & Nicholas Wyatt CPO

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LYMPHATIC SELF-CARE WHAT IS IT, AND WHY DOES IT MATTER?

By Sarahlynn M. Etta, LMT, CMLDT

P

erhaps you have heard of lymph nodes, or felt them in your neck? But did you know that they are part of a larger, intricate network that helps cleanse and protect your entire body? This littlediscussed system is a vital part of your immune response. It fights infection and removes bacteria, viruses, environmental toxins and abnormal cells. A poorly functioning lymphatic system can lead to swelling, fatigue, infection and illness.

Poor lymphatic flow may result from injury, illness, surgery, exposure to environmental toxins, lack of exercise, stress, restrictive clothing (think ill-fitted bra bands) or poor diet and hydration.

Signs include: • Puffiness, swelling, bloating • Stiffness, limited range of motion • Cold hands and feet • Dry, itchy or red skin • Sluggishness, brain fog, fatigue • Weakened immunity • Frequent sinus infections or colds A few simple self-care techniques can make a big difference in keeping lymph moving, as well as for your overall health.

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Hydrate - Drink plenty of clean water throughout the day, aiming to drink half your body weight in ounces. If you consume diuretics like coffee, tea, alcohol or soda, add an additional 1.5 ounces of water per ounce of beverage consumed.

Breathe deeply - Diaphragmatic breathing stimulates the deepest parts of your lymphatic system. Take slow, full breaths in through the nose and allow your belly to expand. Slowly exhale through the nose or mouth, and feel your belly gently draw in. Challenge yourself to follow the “365 method”—three times per day, pause to breathe at a rate of six cycles per minute (five-second inhale, five-second exhale) for at least five minutes. Do this all 365 days of the year!

Move your body - Your circulatory system has a pump—your heart. Your lymphatic system does not! It depends on exercise, both the movement of muscles and getting the heart rate elevated, to function. Strive to get in 150 minutes (five 30-minutes sessions) of movement each week.

Brisk walking gets the muscles moving and elevates the heart rate. Incorporate movements

such as neck rolls, shoulder shrugs, legs lifts and arm raises, which stimulate parts of the body where lymph nodes are concentrated. Consider adding swimming, which creates gentle pressure on the skin, increasing lymphatic flow.

A regular movement practice also supports good posture, which in turn facilitates deep breathing!

Try lymphatic drainage - If you have specific considerations, such as inflammation, autoimmune disease, swelling, lymph-node removal or irradiation, or have recently had surgery, consider manual lymphatic drainage (MLD). Sometimes called “lymphatic massage,” MLD is not actually massage, and a massage therapist needs specialized training to practice this modality. While massage targets the soft tissues (muscles and connective tissue), MLD specifically targets the lymphatic system and lymphatic fluid.

In addition to supporting overall lymphatic function, MLD calms the nervous system, creates an anti-inflammatory response, and releases oxytocin and other “feel-good” hormones. It is a gentle, slow and rhythmic treatment, and many people find it very relaxing and nourishing.

Sarahlynn, owner of Maitri Movement & Massage, is a licensed massage therapist and certified manual lymphatic drainage therapist, specializing in inflammation, pre- and postsurgery, scar-tissue release, and cancer care and recovery. Read the full article or schedule a lymphatic drainage treatment at: MaitriMovement.com/lymph.

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BEFORE … AND AFTER THE BENEFITS OF BOTOX AND DYSPORT

BY LAURA JANE BROUGHER, R.N. ADVANCED AESTHETIC INJECTOR AND SKIN REJUVENATION SPECIALIST

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ot frown lines? Thinking about getting Botox or Dysport injections? Always do your research and seek out a reputable and experienced injector. Dysport and Botox are considered safe when injected correctly.

Why get injections?

HEALTHY SKIN

IS ALWAYS IN Offering Botox, Dermal Fillers, Dysport, Diamond Glow, Medical Skin Care, Broad Band Light and Skin Rejuvenation

BOOK ONLINE TODAY! 253.514.6766 GigHarborAesthetics.com 3226 Rosedale St. Suite 100, Gig Harbor

Laura Brougher, RN 17+ years experience @thefaceangel

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Serina Jones, LME 20+ years experience @serinajones_aesthetics

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1. It feels good! Yes you heard right. Getting a neuromodulator such as Dysport or Botox injected into your forehead dramatically reduces muscle tension. The frowning muscles are also used when you are feeling stressed and squinting in bright light. It is the reason that people who suffer from migraine headaches will get injected with these products. It is my opinion that this is the best feature of getting Dysport/Botox injections.

2. Bye bye wrinkles! Dysport/Botox injections reduce and can completely eliminate wrinkles created from dynamic frowning and squinting. Because all muscles are still slightly contracted in the state of relaxation, many men and women dislike that they look unhappy or angry at rest. Getting Dysport or Botox injections stop the frown muscles from contracting so a person does not have to have an angry resting look. Eliminating muscle tension in your forehead feels good. It can also be used for squinting muscles, such as crows feet, and the wrinkles that occur on the sides of the nose.

3. It helps reduce or eliminate the “resting unhappy face.” If your injector is highly experienced with many years of advanced injecting, and is a true facial artist, they will know how to inject the muscles that pull down on the sides of your mouth. Chin dimpling, called the orange peel chin, can also be injected to soften and smooth the skin.

Again, this should only be done by a person with many years of advanced experience with Dysport and Botox injections.

4. Get a smoother looking neck. Dysport and Botox can also be injected to smooth out the neck muscle bands that protrude as we age.

These are also known as platysma muscles. It creates a softer, smooth, more youthful look.

5. Help eliminate excess sweat. It can be injected into the underarm area for men and women who experience excessive sweating called hyperhidrosis. This is a simple procedure and can last nine months to one year.

6. Improves skin texture and reduces pore size. Dysport/Botox can be injected in micro doses into the skin to reduce pore size. This gives the skin a tighter and smoother glassy effect when combined with a filler such as Restylane or Juvederm.

And finally..

7. It can prevent wrinkles from forming! If you are in your 20s or 30s, you can prevent dynamic wrinkles from forming by getting injections before they start etching into your skin.

There are other things to consider before getting Botox or Dysport injections. Do not get injections if you are pregnant or nursing.

Dysport lasts a bit longer, smooths better and starts working quicker. Both Dysport and Botox last about three-and-a-half to four months in the face (three times per year) and nine to 12 months when injected for hyperhidrosis. If you have more questions, schedule a consultation.

NEUROPLASTICITY WHAT IS IT? AND HOW CAN YOU INCREASE IT?

BY ROBINA GAINES, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, OLYMPIC ALZHEIMER’S RESIDENCE

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europlasticity is defined as the ability of the brain to change and reorganize itself, allowing us to adapt to changes and experiences we may encounter throughout our life.

Neuroplasticity also helps us learn new things and create connections between the regions of the brain as well as help the brain recover from injury and create more effective learning.

The human brain is highly dynamic, and while the rate of change in the brain (neuroplasticity) declines as we age, it does not come to a halt; there are still many things you can do to encourage and stimulate neuroplasticity as you age and help improve or slow cognitive decline.

Get Enough Quality Sleep Sleep is perhaps the most important factor in increasing neuroplasticity and has major effects on the brain through neuroplastic mechanisms. Sleep offers a “soft wipe” of the brain, which provides a blank slate for you to lay down new connections through new experiences, memories and skills.

Learn New Things Learning new things, such as an instrument or new language, has a profound effect on neuroplasticity. Recent studies show that music practice forces the brain to work in new ways, an important contributor to neuroplasticity, and causes heightened connectivity between brain regions.

Learning new words or languages activates the brain’s visual, auditory and memory processes.

Researchers from Penn State found that those who learned a new language underwent several functional and structural changes in their brain, including better integration between networks—resulting in more brain flexibility and more efficient learning.

Reduce Stress Stress takes a physical and mental toll on your body. Studies show that repeated exposure to stress can result in the atrophy of neurons in the hippocampus and hypertrophy of neurons on the amygdala, the area of our brain associated with fear, anger, anxiety and other emotional responses. If you can’t reduce the stress in your life, you can at least change the way you respond to it, either through meditation, physical activity or connecting with others.

Get Moving Another great way to improve neuroplasticity is through movement. At Prestige Senior Living Mira Loma, we offer Ageless Grace®, an innovative brain and body program based on stimulation of neuroplasticity to support cognitive health. The program uses 21 physical tools and “games” based on the concept of neuroplasticity and is designed to activate the organs and systems of the body. Each tool is based on everyday, natural movements that focus on the healthy longevity of the body and mind. People of all ages and abilities, including those with physical disabilities and challenges, can benefit from this class, plus it’s a great way to fit in your recommended 150 minutes of weekly movement.

Interested in learning more about Ageless Grace® and its many benefits of wellness?

Sign up for our FREE webinar with the creator of Ageless Grace®, Denise Medved, on Friday, January 29, at 10:30am PST. Visit NotYourGrandmasNursingHome.com to sign up for this upcoming event. And to learn more about Olympic Alzheimer’s Residence, call us at 253.851.5306 to schedule a virtual tour today.

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SNOQUALMIE CASINO

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KOOTENAI RIVER INN, CASINO & SPA 7169 Plaza Street, Bonners Ferry, ID 888.875.8259 KootenaiRiverInn.com

BONNERS FERRY NORTHERN QUEST RESORT & CASINO 100 North Hayford Road Airway Heights, WA 877.871.6772 NorthernQuest.com

COEUR D’ALENE CASINO RESORT HOTEL 37914 South Nukwalqw Worley, ID 800.523.2464 CdACasino.com

SPOKANE

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DESTINATION … CASINO Over the years, casinos have continued to expand and evolve into so much more than a place to p r e s s y o u r l u c k b y p u l l i n g l e v e r s , p r e s s i n g b u t t o n s , p l a y i n g c a r d s a n d s p i n n i n g t h e w h e e l . To d a y, whether you are a gambler or not so much, casinos today have created a full resort experience, p e r f e c t f o r a d a y e s c a p e o r a w e e ke n d g e t a w a y w i t h f r i e n d s , f a m i l y o r j u s t y o u r s e l f ! F r o m restaurants and shops to spas and golf, find all there is to be discovered at the incredible casino destinations that can be found here in the Northwest.

Pull Up a Chair Dining options reign supreme at many of the casino resorts found in the Northwest. If you’re seeking an upscale buffet or a fine-dining, white-tablecloth, high-end feast, you are sure to find just what your palate—and your wallet—are craving.

Your favorite casino restaurant can easily be your sole motivation for traveling to your local—or not so local— casino destination. From Masselow’s Steakhouse at Northern Quest Casino in Airway Heights, Washington, to the Coeur d’Alene Casino’s newly reinvented Chinook Crafted by Chef Adam Hegsted—owner and award-winning chef of multiple restaurants in the Inland Northwest, these two restaurants alone are worth the trip.

Top 10 Casino Restaurants: • 13moons, Swinomish Casino & Lodge • Blackfish Wild Salmon Grill & Bar, Tulalip Resort Casino • Chinook Crafted by Adam Hegsted, Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel • Masselow’s Steakhouse, Northern Quest Resort & Casino • Puyalapabs Café, Emerald Queen Casino - Tacoma • Riverbank Taphouse, Northern Quest Resort & Casino • Squalli-Absch Grille, Nisqually Red Wind Casino • Squaxin Island Seafood Bar, Little Creek Casino Resort • Tatoosh Grill, Emerald Queen Hotel & Casino - Fife • The Springs Restaurant and Lounge, Kootenai River Inn, Casino & Spa

Photos Courtesy of Northern Quest Resort & Casino

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Treat Yourself to a Day at the Spa A weekend of gambling, dining, entertainment and shopping is sure to wear anyone out, so it only makes sense that many of the Northwest’s premier casino resorts have luxurious spas on-site for guests to enjoy some well-deserved pampering. Of course you will find the traditional massage and facial offerings, but these casinos have created a one-of-akind experience that you’ll want to place at the top of your list.

Northern Quest offers a world-class luxury day spa, La Rive Spa— Forbes Travel Guide’s Four-Star rated spa since 2012. Here they invite you to celebrate, rejuvenate and breathe. Experience an oasis of healing tranquility with customized massage, facials and skin care, body wraps

and other spa treatments, as well as the relaxation lounge, saunas, and pool complete with outdoor sun deck. You will also find a hair and nail salon.

Spa Ssakwa’q’n, located inside the Coeur d’Alene Casino, is one of the largest spas in the region and provides an affordable, luxurious experience. Offering a variety of unique facials, massages and body treatments to best serve your relaxation needs, the spa is one of only a couple of Vichy treatment rooms in the Inland Northwest.

Tulalip Resort Casino’s T Spa is a luxurious 14,000-square-foot sanctuary, where guests can indulge in stress-relieving deep-tissue massages as well as native-inspired spa rituals, body treatments and skin therapies.

Photo Courtesy of Coeur d’Alene Casino

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Entertainment with Turn-Down Service AND MAYBE A NICE MASSAGE AND A GLASS OF WINE

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ariety is the spice of life. That’s why when you make plans to visit Northern Quest Resort & Casino in Spokane, Washington, your options for relaxation, adventure and entertainment are endless. With convenient access to Las Vegas-style gaming, multiple restaurant choices, a world-class spa and retail shopping, it’s perfect for a weekend getaway!

Located just minutes from the Spokane International Airport or a convenient short drive away, Northern Quest is the only tribally owned resort in Eastern Washington to be awarded both the AAA Four Diamond Award and the Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star rating. They’ve taken extra steps to ensure that you’ll have a safe, relaxing experience!

With eight package deals featuring added bonuses that will make you the envy of all your friends, there’s something for everyone. If you want to take the traditional route, go with the Unpack and Relax spa package or Jackpot Getaway gaming package, and split your time in the casino, the spa or one of Northern Quest’s popular restaurants. If your family needs a change of pace from the four walls you’ve been staring at, head to the website at NorthernQuest.com and book the Family Fun package immediately! You can enjoy an adult date night at Masselow’s Steakhouse while the kids live it up at Kids Quest, the supervised children’s entertainment center, and Cyber Quest, Northern Quest’s family friendly arcade.

Maybe you’re celebrating an anniversary or the birthday of someone special? Be sure to book the Romance Package, where along with your

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stay in a luxury Classic room at Northern Quest, you’ll receive a dining credit for a venue of your choice, a bouquet of roses, a bottle of wine with two keepsake glasses, a discount on spa services, and turn-down service with their famous caramels from Masselow’s.

This winter, adventure and entertainment are calling your name. You can find everything you’re looking for all under one roof and a hop, skip and a jump away at Northern Quest Resort & Casino.

Northern Quest Resort & Casino 100 North Hayford Road Airway Heights, Washington 99001 877.871.6772 NorthernQuest.com

PLAN A GETAWAY THAT’S NOT TOO AWAY. For a perfect family getaway, Northern Quest is closer than you think—with something for everyone. A choice of delicious restaurants and lounges. A luxury RV resort. Name-brand shopping. A relaxing day spa. Your favorite slots and table games. And even supervised childcare at Kids Quest. So you all can break out of the house and still be close to home.

NORTHERNQUEST.COM | 877.871.6772 | SPOKANE, WA

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T

he Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel is a rustic oasis tucked away in the natural beauty of Worley, Idaho, just 25 miles from Coeur d’Alene. Guests will be treated to impressive views of the rolling hills of the Palouse and pine-forested landscape while being provided a multi-faceted experience that will linger in hearts and minds long after leaving.

The Coeur d’Alene Casino offers a full resort experience with 300 rooms and suites; seven distinct food and beverage outlets; a 15,000-square-foot contemporary spa; and Circling Raven Golf Club, an 18-hole, par-72 course that consistently ranks as one of the “Best Courses You Can Play.” Each week, the resort’s event center becomes the largest bingo venue in the Northwest, with high-stakes bingo games a regular staple. The casino’s 60,000-square-foot gaming floor offers more than 1,200 video gaming machines, video keno, video poker, video craps and video roulette.

North Idaho’s casino destination

Choose from one of their two hotel experiences. The Mountain Lodge offers guests a warm atmosphere and western feel. At the opposite end of the resort, the more recent addition of The Spa Tower provides modern and elegant rooms, many with beautiful views of the resort’s natural surroundings.

Five restaurants offer guests an array of flavors to match any budget: Chinook Crafted by Chef Adam Hegsted, Red Tail Bar and Grill, Huckleberry Deli and Jackpot Java. Twisted Earth Grill can be found at the Circling Raven Pro Shop. In 2020, local celebrity chef Adam Hegsted joined forces with the Coeur d’Alene Casino’s restaurant division to bring a fresh perspective to the resort’s menus. The resort’s Chinook restaurant is the first of the resort’s venues to premiere Chef Hegsted’s menu of innovative Northwest cuisine and classic comfort food.

There’s plenty of gift shop and boutique shopping on-site, and the Coeur d’Alene Casino E-Store offers the convenience of shopping online for tickets to cultural events, tours and workshops, concert and entertainment tickets, as well as popular products from the Circling Raven Pro Shop and the spa’s boutique. Gift cards are available on-site or online and can be used at any of the resort’s venues.

If it is a superior spa service at an affordable price you’re seeking, SpaSsakwa’q’n’s full-service menu includes massage, body treatments, facials, manicures, pedicures, spa specials and spa packages for its guests. The spa provides one of the few Vichy shower rooms in the Inland Northwest, and a favorite amenity of guests is the spa’s outdoor heated and jetted pool. Most services can be customized for the guest’s individual needs, and many natural product options are available.

Coeur d’Alene Casino hosts exciting live entertainment throughout the year, including concerts, sporting events and other seasonal entertainment. And, its 40,000 square feet of conference space can accommodate groups of 12 to 1,200.

A rustic yet modern and welcoming oasis awaits you … at the Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel.

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Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel 37914 South Nukwalqw Worley, Idaho 83876 800.523.2464 CdACasino.com GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL

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Happy New Year!

Make 2021

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Your

Year

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A SUCCESSFUL 2021 STARTS WITH YOU How to lay out realistic goals for your personal and professional life

stor y by ABIGAIL THORPE

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t’s January 1, surrounded by the remaining vestiges of last year’s party, and there it is before us: our New Year’s resolution. We’ve all been there: Exercise five days every week; stop eating sweets; read 12 new books. The list of resolutions that quickly go by the wayside one or two weeks later is a long one each year.

2020 was a tough year, and entering 2021, things still are not normal, but what better reasons to work toward something you want to achieve? It’s difficult to change habits that are deeply ingrained, but setting and achieving goals isn’t impossible; it just needs to be approached the right way. Rather than a resolution this year, focus on setting a goal (or goals) that you work toward on your terms, in your own time. We’ve put together some tips to get you started on the path to a successful 2021.

Look to the future. Where do you want to be in one year? Five? Ten? Set goals that help propel you toward the person you want to be down the road. This way you’ll have something to look toward, a reason for achieving each goal along the way.

Don’t follow the crowd. It’s easy to get distracted by what others are doing, or what you think you should be doing for your New Years’ resolution or goal. Don’t! Find something you want to accomplish. You’ll be much more successful in making it happen if you have a purpose for doing it.

Ask yourself why you shouldn’t make the change. This might seem counterintuitive, but it’s often our inability to let go of old habits that dooms our New Year’s goals. Understand why you shouldn’t make the change, and why you are sticking to old habits. Are they more appealing and fulfilling to you than your new goal? For example, if your goal is to read more this year, but you’d rather

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watch TV instead, and you know you’ll choose this habit because in the end it’s more rewarding, you’re setting yourself up for failure. You’ll be more successful achieving your goals when a new behavior looks more attractive than a current one, despite the discipline or difficulties it may take to get there.

Reward yourself! You need a treat too! Reward yourself for accomplishments along the way, however small. This provides positive reinforcement and gives you something to look forward to. The end goal should be motivating, but sometimes we need a little extra push along the way, and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that!

Keep it positive. Focus on doing, not stopping. Positive thinking will do way more to encourage you to reach your goal. Instead of saying, “I’m not going to eat sweets,” make a goal to eat healthier. There’s less room for failure, and you’ll focus on a positive lifestyle or goal rather than giving up a negative one.

Review and update your plan. It’s okay to make changes along the way.

The rigid inflexibility of a resolution is why so many fail. Give yourself some breathing room, and come up with a system to take stock of where you’re at and how your plan is going. If you need to change your plan or goals along the way, that’s okay. The most important thing is to start establishing healthy habits that are leading you toward your end goal.

Make the goal your end. Resolutions fail because they don’t allow for flexibility and messing up. Rather, resolutions should be an end to your goal, so you keep the way open. Rather than saying: “I’m going to go to the gym five days a week,” say, “I’m going to establish an exercise routine,” then make small goals or “resolutions” to get you to your end goal. One day that may be going to the gym, another it may be going for a walk around the neighborhood. Give yourself small goals to achieve, and make room to adapt your plans along the way.

Create a plan. It’s easy to come up with a goal, but the plan to get there is how you’ll find success. Sketch out next steps to reach your goal, starting with small ones, even if it’s something like getting new shoes in order to work out more. Make sure each goal or step is something measurable that you can keep in front of you, on your phone, fridge or calendar, that way it becomes a part of your everyday routine.

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Just do it! Sometimes it just takes the first step to get you going. Stop making excuses, and don’t let what you don’t have keep you from getting started. If you want to exercise more, but can’t afford a gym membership, then find ways to work out at home or outside, and work your way toward your goal, even if that means making a plan to someday afford a gym membership. There is always a way to get to your end goal—it may just look different than you expected.

A successful year is in front of you. You just have to take the first step. No matter what 2021 may throw at us, don’t give up on setting a goal and finding ways to stick to it. Make this the year you accomplish your New Year’s goal (not your resolution)!

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! We are here to serve your family law needs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Please stay safe & healthy.

Wishing you a happy New Year!

253.260.4147 | HarborFamilyLawGroup.com 2615 Jahn Ave. NW, Suite E7, Gig Harbor, WA

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A Healthy Spirit

Simple strategies to take back your health this year

stor y by TAYLOR SHILLAM

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n 2020, you likely learned a lot about your ability to adapt, cope and remain strong through challenge and uncertainty.

Now that the new year has arrived, you can apply that valuable knowledge to achieving a healthier spirit in 2021.

This year, it’s time to make your New Year’s goals count. As staying healthy and building your immune system remain critical, it’s time to redefine wellness and rediscover the best strategies to find yourself healthier, happier and more energized for the new year ahead.

Your initial goals and plan of attack don’t have to be big. In fact, small, attainable goals are often the best way to achieve big-picture results.

Big, broad terms like wellness, balance and mind-body connection are common, but what do they really mean? How can these concepts be reached in a way that is sustainable, and can the process really be enjoyable—even life-changing?

Start by learning what tools are available to you, and how you can best put them into practice in your day-to-day life. If anything is true about the path to cultivating a healthier spirit, it’s that there are many ways to do so, and the best time to start is now.

Here, we take a look at healthy living at its fullest, including strategies to boost your health, both mentally and physically.

This year, aim to train your brain and strengthen your mental well-being just as much as your physical fitness. The familiar adage “use it or lose it” is just as applicable to your cognitive health, and regularly exercising your brain can boost its ability to think quickly and retain memory.

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New Indoor Furniture Has Arrived!

HARBOR TEAK

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Our “outdoor” furniture represents some of the most popular designs, while much of our “indoor” selection is “one-of-a-kind” pieces often made from reclaimed/recycled Teak.

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Hmmm...

What do you get for the person who has everything?

The Zoo Society is offering the opportunity to leave your own mark at the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium with an etched brick outside the new Zoo Society kiosk, centrally located in the Zoo. Honor a loved one, celebrate a milestone or just be part of this community jewel.

To order your brick or for more information, visit thezoosociety.org or call 253.404.3651.

Friday, November 13, 2020 @ 7:00PM

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Simple ways to give your brain its daily workout include games like Sudoku or word hunts, working on a jigsaw puzzle, or using an app designed to train your brain like Lumosity, Peak, Cognifit Brain Fitness and Personal Zen. Experts even praise small, quick daily exercises like completing a task using your non-dominant hand or taking a different route on your drive home, for their ability to contribute to major mental benefits.

Strengthen your brain’s neuroplasticity, or ability to grow and create new connections, by learning a new skill. A highlight of this task is in its endless possibilities; you can choose anything you want to learn. Whether it’s learning to cook healthier recipes, or simply just learning to cook, the stimulation and sense of achievement from honing a new craft and putting it into practice can be so satisfying.

Skills like cooking, learning to paint, playing an instrument or learning a language have the added benefits of calming nerves, revitalizing your focus and providing a healthy outlet during periods of stress.

Stress can affect the entire body, triggering an automatic hormonal response. In short periods, elevated stress levels can be healthy, inspiring growth, action and change—but repeated, uncontrolled stress will take its toll.

Daily mindfulness practices, like meditation and journaling, can fight the inflammatory effects of stress and help you regain a sense of calmness and control.

Use a journal to pull anxious thoughts and long to-do lists out of your mind and put them on paper. The act of writing out a thought or experience can help you reorganize and process the associated feelings in a different way. You’ll have the added benefit of having the journal to look back on in the future, to recall past experiences and see how far you’ve come.

Along with your mindfulness practices, don’t forget to keep a healthy physical release in your routine. This month, reconnect with physical fitness as a mode of both releasing and receiving energy.

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FINE & CUSTOM JEWELRY | REPAIRS | APPRAISALS | CITIZEN WATCHES

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The famed post-workout endorphins, euphoric hormones released within the body after exercise, are nothing to underestimate. Studies have shown that endorphins are involved in the body’s natural reward circuits to maximize pleasure and help us continue to function through periods of injury or stress. In short: Movement is key to feeling good.

Effects of endorphin release include mood boosts, stress and anxiety relief, a sense of increased confidence and appetite regulation— all part of a long list of exercise benefits that go beyond outward appearance.

An important key to falling in love with exercise is simply finding your match: an activity you’re motivated to show up to on a regular basis. From spin classes and Crossfit, to hikes and long walks, to barre and yoga, there are endless settings available to you, and the process will be well worth it when you arrive at your perfect fit.

This year, open yourself up to the possibility of loving exercise, and treat yourself to a step outside your comfort zone. Try that boutique class you’ve been curious about; invest in that new yoga mat or set of weights; or enlist a friend as your accountability partner. Your body will thank you.

Stay motivated by tracking your progress.

Whether it’s checking off weekly workouts, counting your miles, leveling up your weight in strength training, or working your way toward a new yoga pose, a wonderful thing about the world of fitness is that you can always set a new goal and keep moving forward—just don’t forget to celebrate those milestones along the way.

At a time when many of us are more than ready for a new year, a fresh start and a revitalized spirit, take this January as a challenge to redefine what health means to you.

Boosting your brain, enjoying physical activity and trying something new are just a few ways to get started. Whatever you choose, proudly take it as an investment in yourself and in a better New Year.

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Maritime Jewelers

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HA P P Y A N D H E A LTHY

by JILLIAN CHANDLER

Six popular—and effective—wellness lifestyle trends

A new year brings with it a new start; 365 new opportunities to live a happier— and healthier—life. With 2020 behind us, let’s make 2021 truly count. Your life is in your hands, so it’s up to you to make each day count. Let’s start with these six lifestyle trends that you can easily incorporate into your daily routine.

Allow Your Body to Rest Prioritize Mental Health Though 2020 is behind us, we are all still carrying the burdens, and trying to recover from the hardships the year brought with it. The new year has arrived, but we are all still experiencing the effects of the COVID pandemic. Each person has their own unique way of persevering, but it is important to remember that we are all in this together— we are not alone. Now more than ever, people are more easily able to voice their feelings, their thoughts, their uncertainties, their pain. And this is a powerful thing.

Our mental health should always take priority over fear of one’s judgment. There is no shame in being scared, overwhelmed or stressed. Sharing with others rather than suffering alone is a relief and the beginning of being able to heal.

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We live in a world that teaches us we need to constantly be doing something. It’s always go, go, go. Whether it be work, doing activities with your children, cooking a beautiful meal, working out at the gym; if we’re not busy doing something, then we are considered lazy. Well, if 2020 taught us anything, it’s to take the time to enjoy those quiet moments.

Instead of scrolling through social media, relax with a good book. Instead of hitting up the gym today, take a walk outside in your neighborhood, on a local trail or at your nearby park. Breathing in the cool fresh air is sure to calm you and clear your mind.

Get Proper Sleep Can you remember the last time you woke up feeling fully rested and refreshed, your body restored, ready to start the day? Many of us—no matter our age—are not getting adequate sleep at night. Instead of turning out the lights and settling into bed for a good night’s rest, we find ourselves, once again, checking our social media, watching TV, texting friends or family, staring at our computer screen and working on that latenight work or school assignment, etc. Now’s the time to start creating a healthy bedtime routine. It is recommended that you stop using electronic devices 30 minutes prior to when you plan to go to bed. It’s also a good idea to remove all devices from the bedroom and opt for a good book instead.

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Focus On PlantBased Eating

Invest in Your Space As more people continue to live, work and play from home than ever before, it is imperative that we are spending our time in a space that nurtures ourselves and our families, despite all the chaos. Our homes should be our sanctuaries, and with many of our children still remote learning, while we continue to work from our home office, we can find ourselves overwhelmed by all that is going on and surrounding us. Simplify and clear out what you no longer need. Instead of school work—and your work—sprawled all throughout the house, designate a school/ work area—even the dining room table— that can be cleared away when the work day is done and it’s time to unwind. Add greenery to freshen up your space, add new blind to let in more light. Buy that new chair you’ve been eyeing to make your work hours more comfortable.

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Whether for your health, for the environment or for animal welfare, or all of the above, 2021 may be the year that many who have not yet attempted this way of eating might just take that leap. We’ve all heard the words vegetarian and vegan, but how about flexitarian? A flexitarian diet, sometimes referred to as a semi-vegetarian diet, is a much more inclusive diet. Though meals are centered around plant foods, it allows for the occasional inclusion of meat, eggs and fish.

With a less rigid approach, it can more easily be incorporated into your current diet. With the ultimate goal to add more plant-based focused meals into your daily life, this will not only benefit your health but the health of the environment and animal well-being as well. It’s a win-win, right?

Incorporate Chinese Medicine Chinese medicine continues to draw people to its natural, balanced approach to wellness. Traditional Chinese medicine has been used in addressing everything from anxiety and depression to allergies, back pain, skin conditions, obesity, infertility and so much more. Incorporating the use of herbs and diet, acupuncture and cupping to prevent or treat health problems, traditional Chinese medicine will only continue to raise awareness of the alternatives to mainstream Western medicine. For those looking for a more natural approach to wellness, bringing balance to their bodies, mind and spirit, Chinese medicine may be the answer.

TURCO’S AUTOMOTIVE Reliability and quality service comes standard

READY YOUR CAR FOR WINTER! Get your car checked with us!

• Servicing Foreign & Domestic • Scheduled Maintenance • Brake Service • Oil Changes & More

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Please ask about our Military & Senior Rewards

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A VISIT TO A SOUTHERN PLANTATION Relooking Louisiana’s River Road history through the eyes of the enslaved

By Marguerite Cleveland

T

he myth of the Grand Ole’ South has long glamorized plantation life as one of beautiful homes, epic parties, southern gentlemen and their lovely brides, with no mention of the thousands of people ripped from their homes in Africa who were enslaved on the plantations. Tours used to involve hoopskirt gowned guides and sipping mint juleps. In recent years, things have changed, and many historic sites have begun to tell the complete story of what life was like on a plantation to include that of the enslaved people. Whitney Plantation, in particular, shares the story purely from the perspective of the enslaved. This trip focuses on an area known as the “German Coast,” which begins just north of New Orleans and follows both sides of the Mississippi River.

Where to Stay There is something about staying on a historic property along the river road. After the crowds leave for the day, a quiet sneaks in. The Spanish Moss dripping from live oak trees in the evening dusk seems to whisper the history of those before you. Destrehan Plantation offers two cottages for rent, which are on the grounds of the plantation. They offer a vintage charm and modern conveniences. Oak Alley Plantation has a more upscale experience with luxury cottages and an onsite restaurant. It is a separate business from the nonprofit, which runs the plantation, but you still have access to the property and its stunning dual columns of live oaks that lead to the levee and the Mississippi River. The property is surrounded by sugar cane fields, so you really get the feeling of how isolated the river plantations were.

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TO TRULY BEGIN TO UNDERSTAND WHAT LIFE WAS LIKE ON A PLANTATION THROUGH THE EYES OF THE ENSLAVED PEOPLE, A VISIT TO WHITNEY PLANTATION IS A MUST.

What to Do The 1811 Rebellion of Enslaved People, also known as the German Coast Uprising, was a key historical event that took place in this area—and it is relatively unknown. It was well planned and the largest in U.S. history. The revolt began at what is now known as the 1811 Kid Ory Historic House and was led by Charles Deslondes and more than 500 enslaved people.

You can learn about this significant event as well as early jazz great Kid Ory on a tour.

To truly begin to understand what life was like on a plantation through the eyes of the enslaved people, a visit to Whitney Plantation is a must. Plan to spend a couple of hours so you have time to absorb the experience. In addition to learning the history of slavery on the Whitney Plantation, you will also visit memorials that honor the enslaved people. The experience is like visiting a concentration camp such as Dachau in Germany—especially when you visit the memorial for the German Coast Uprising. The leaders of this event were tried, executed and beheaded, their heads then placed on pikes that lined the River Road for 60 miles. When touring the site be respectful and quiet. It takes place outdoors, so dress for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes. If you are unable to visit, take a virtual tour by downloading the Whitney Plantation app.

For a very personal experience, take “The Unheard Voices of the German Coast Tour” exclusively offered by Dianne Honore Destrehan. She is a family descendant of Jean-Baptiste Destrehan, the owner of the plantation, and Catiche Destrehan, who was enslaved by him. By the time you finish the tour you will have a better understanding of the cultural melting pot of this area. Learn the heritage of the German farmers, Acadians, the enslaved Africans, Native Americans and Sicilians, as well as their contributions to the cultural heritage. Destrehan is a gifted storyteller, and her family history adds an authenticity to the tour. As more is learned about the history of the plantation, the tours have evolved over the years. The leaders of the German Coast Uprising were tried at Destrehan and held in the wash shed on the plantation grounds. There are plans to expand on this history.

Laura Plantation shook up plantation tours when they first opened in 1994. They were the first historic home tour in Louisiana to use the term slave instead of servant and the first to include the history of enslaved Africans as part of the tour. Let that date sink in. The year 1994 was the first time the stories of enslaved people were included in plantation tours.

Opened in February 2017, the permanent exhibit “From the Big House to the Quarters: Slavery on Laura Plantation” is housed in a restored overseer’s cottage. Research into the plantation’s history is ongoing in both GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL

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The Specifics WHERE TO STAY Destrehan Plantation Creole Cottages DestrehanPlantation.org/ Creole-Cottages Oak Alley Plantation Restaurant and Inn - OakAlleyPlantation.com

WHERE TO EAT Destrehan Plantation - DestrehanPlantation.org Oak Alley Plantation - OakAlleyPlantation.org 1811/Kid Ory Historic House - 1811KidOryHistoricHouse.com Whitney Plantation - WhitneyPlantation.org Laura Plantation - LauraPlantation.com

WHAT TO DO Destrehan Plantation - DestrehanPlantation.org Oak Alley Plantation - OakAlleyPlantation.org 1811/Kid Ory Historic House – 1811KidOryHistoricHouse.com Whitney Plantation - WhitneyPlantation.org Laura Plantation - LauraPlantation.com

the United States and France where some descendants settled. Laura has an extensive collection of primary source documents including Laura’s diary, which are invaluable in sharing the history of this unique Creole plantation.

Oak Alley is the iconic southern plantation with its double rows of live oaks leading to the home. Once a traditional tour with hoopskirt gowned guides and mint juleps, it has evolved over time. The hoop skirts are gone, but you can still get a good mint julep. Rather than move old slave cabins from other plantations, authentic reproductions were built with a permanent exhibit of the enslaved people on the plantation. As part of the foundation’s Revisit Oak Alley initiative, the “Big House” Experience and Site Interpretation was completed in January 2018. The mansion tour now fully integrates the histories of the enslaved people at Oak Alley and shows their contributions.

Where to Eat The German Coast area of Louisiana is an amazing melting pot when it comes to the cuisine. African, mainly Senegal, French, German and American influences have shaped the local food culture. Cajun chefs will cook just about anything. In addition to staples such as crawfish, shrimp and andouille sausage you will also find alligator, rabbit and frog legs. What the area is famed for though is its andouille sausage—and they even made a trail for it. The Andouille Trail will take you to the makers in humble shops and meat markets to chefs at upscale restaurants.

Spuddy’s Cajun Cooking Experience is a must, as he shares family recipes passed down for generations. B&C Seafood restaurant is a family owned 86

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business that the locals love. Workers in the area stop by for the plate lunch specials each day or a bowl of their flavorful gumbos—smoked rabbit is the most popular. The Seafood Pot is a restaurant and market with fresh local seafood. You can purchase their daiquiris by the gallon. Don’t miss the Creole House, where Chef Jason Roussel cooks everything from scratch.

He is passionate about sharing real Cajan cooking.

The plantation tours mentioned are all nonprofit foundations that are dedicated to telling the authentic history of the area. For more information about the German Coast, visit LARiverParishes.com to help plan your visit.

253.380.7554

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DID YOU KNOW? Discovered in 1841 by explorers of the Wilkes Expedition, Gig Harbor would not be incorporated as a town until more than a century later, in 1946. With a population of around 800 at that time, the city has grown and is now estimated to be home to more than 10,000 year-round residents. Where fishing was Gig Harbor's main industry, with its deep heritage still preserved throughout the city, today, tourism has taken its place.

Everywhere you look in this stunning maritime city, you see the past incorporated with the present. As you explore the harbor, its retail shops, restaurants and local businesses, you can still sense days gone, as 17 historic netsheds still line the waterfront, thoughtfully preserved for future generations; and an homage to the humble beginnings of this waterfront community.

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Best Western Wesley Inn & Suites 6575 Kimball Dr., Gig Harbor, WA 98335

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The Inn at Gig Harbor 3211 56th St. NW, Gig Harbor, WA 98335 253.858.1111 • InnatGigHarbor.com

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A cozy, 64-room inn that exudes ambiance and charm, combined with the adventurous style of the Pacific Northwest. Located just 10 minutes from the heart of Gig Harbor’s dowtown waterfront dining and activities.

253.858.1818 MaritimeInn.com

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Waterfront Inn 9017 N. Harborview Dr., Gig Harbor, WA 98332

253.857.0770 Waterfront-Inn.com

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The Westwynd Motel 6703 144th St. NW, Gig Harbor, WA 98332

253.857.4047 WestwyndMotel.com

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Pleasure Craft Houseboat Rentals 3215 Harborview Dr., Gig Harbor, WA 98335

253.549.6639 PleasureCraftRentals.com

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Gig Harbor Marina & Boatyard Fleet Suites 3117 Harborview Dr., Gig Harbor, WA 98335

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The Maritime Inn 3212 Harborview Dr., Gig Harbor, WA 98335

Aloha Beachside B&B 8318 State Route 302 NW., Gig Harbor, WA 98329 Beachside Bed & Breakfast 679 Kamus Dr., Fox Island, WA 98333 Gig Harbor Marina & Boatyard Guest House 3117 Harborview Dr., Gig Harbor, WA 98335

HEALTH & BEAUTY Sugaring NYC - Gig Harbor Rebel’tude Salon

Beauty

253.853.7847

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4779 Point Fosdick Dr. Unit 400, Gig Harbor, WA 98335

Hair

253.514.6164

RebeltudeaSalon.com

6659 Kimball Dr. #B200, Gig Harbor, WA 98335

Air Blowout Bar 8811 N. Harborview Dr., Gig Harbor, WA 98332 253.514.6389 • AirBlowoutBar.com Stylish blowout bar offering blowouts, dry styling and hair treatments, as well as supporting products to help maintain your style at home. From Brazilian blowout split-end treatments and braids, to treatments to help rejuvenate, moisturize and repair your hair, Air Blowout Bar offers it all. Monthly memberships available.

Salon Rivera

Hair

253.858.2820

A Prima Salon & Extensions

Hair

Salon-Riviera.com

8809 N. Harborview Dr. Ste. 201, Gig Harbor, WA 98332

253.509.0726

APrimaSalon.net

2609 Jahn Ave. NW. Ste. F-6, Gig Harbor, WA 98335

Hair

253.514.6404

HaircutMenUptown GigHarborWA.com

4641 Point Fosdick Dr. Bldg. 15, Gig Harbor, WA 98335

Hair & Spa

253.851.5599

JaxSalonSpa.com

3111 Harborview Dr. Ste. 100, Gig Harbor, WA 98335

Hair & Spa

253.432.4219

StudioSixtheSalon andSpa.com

4779 Point Fosdick Dr. NW. Ste. 200, Gig Harbor, WA 98335

Sweet Angel Sugar & Lash Studio

Lash & Beauty

206.486.6415

SweetAngelSpa.com

11515 Burnham Dr. NW. Ste. 102, Gig Harbor, WA 98332

Lash Nirvana Lashes & Brows

Lash & Beauty

253.260.5031

LashNirvana.com

7512 Stanich Ln. #5, Gig Harbor, WA 98335

Mia Lash • Brow

Lash & Beauty

253.313.5906

MiaLashandBrow.com

4949 Borgen Blvd. Ste. B-105, Gig Harbor, WA 98332

Cascade Eye & Skin Center

Medical Aesthetics

253.848.3000

CascadeEyeSkin.com

4907 Point Fosdick Dr. NW. Ste. E700, Gig Harbor, WA 98335

Nouveau MedSpas

Medical Aesthetics

253.358.3667

NouveauMedSpas.com

5125 Olympic Dr. NW. Ste. 108, Gig Harbor, WA 98335

Sport Clips Haircuts Jax Salon • Spa Studio Six the Salon & Spa

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Olympic Nail & Spa Gig Harbor Aesthetics

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Nails

253.858.6292

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4910 Point Fosdick Dr. NW., Gig Harbor, WA 98335

Skin Care

253.514.6766

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3226 Rosedale St. Ste. 100, Gig Harbor, WA, 98335

Hawkins-Poe Real Estate Services

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Jennie Wetter • Infinity Real Estate 5775 Soundview Dr. Ste. B202, Gig Harbor, WA 98335 253.225.5602 • JennieWetter.com Gig Harbor’s local real estate professionals, lead by owner and broker Jennie Wetter. Infinity Real Estate is dedicated to meeting clients’ needs, whether they are looking to sell or buy. Jennie and her dedicated team of professionals are committed to putting the client first, providing 100 percent dedication and care from start to finish.

Properties Northwest of Gig Harbor

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ReMax Exclusive

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Sievers Real Estate

253.569.6681

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SieversRealEstate.com

Carolyn Westmoreland

Westmoreland Properties

253.961.5596

carolyn@westmorelandproperties.net

WestmorelandProperties.info

Sandy and Gary Jones

Windermere

253.514.1988

sandyjones@windermere.com

SandyJ.WithWRE.com

Tiffany Place

Windermere

206.849.5425

tiffanyplace@windermere.com

TiffanyPlaceRealEstate.com

Sue Rand

Windermere

253.732.0534

suerand@windermere.com

SueRand.com

Pat Mercado

MARINAS & BOAT LAUNCHES Arabella’s Landing

Marina

253.851.1793

ArabellasLanding.com

3323 Harborview Dr., Gig Harbor, WA 98332

Gig Harbor Marina & Boatyard

Marina

253.858.3535

GigHarborMarina.com

3117 Harborview Dr., Gig Harbor, WA 98335

Jerisich Dock • Marina 3211 Harborview Dr., Gig Harbor, WA 98335 cityofgigharbor.net/187/Jerisich-Dock Small half acre waterfron park in the hear of downtown that provides transient moorage for boaters and features a seasonal pump-out station, water and power. Restrooms, showers and life jacket loaner station are available on site. Boats moored past 8 p.m. must register at kiosk. Maximum stay 3 days in 10-day period. First come, first served.

Lakebay Marina Resort

Marina

253.884.3350

-

15 Lorenz Rd. NW, Lakebay, WA 98349

Maritime Pier

Marina

-

CityofGigHarbor.net/189/ Maritime-Pier

3003 Harborview Dr., Gig Harbor, WA 98335

Murphy’s Landing Marina

Marina

253.851.3093

MarinaLife.com/Marinas/ Murphys-Landing-Marina

3901 Harborview Dr., Gig Harbor, WA 98335

Peninsula Yacht Basin

Marina

253.858.2250

PeninsulaYachtBasin.com

8913 N. Harborview Dr., Gig Harbor, WA 98332

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Eddon Boat Park • Boat Launch 3805 Harborview Dr., Gig Harbor, WA 98332 253.851.8136 • CityofGigHarbor.net/535/Eddon-Boat-Park Historic boat yard listed on the Gig Harbor Register of Historic Places that includes the Gig Harbor BoatShop, a nonprofit organization that provides traditional shipwright educational classes and programming to the public as part of the city’s commitment to preserving the community’s maritime heritage. Restrooms, pier, float and kayake launch and life jacket loaner station are available for public use.

Horsehead Bay Public Boat Ramp

Boat Launch

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Fox Island Public Boat Ramp

Boat Launch

-

10999 36th St. NW, Gig Harbor, WA 98335

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203 3rd Ave., Fox Island, WA 98333 20001 Bay Rd. SW, Lakebay, WA 98459

Joemma Beach State Park

Boat Launch

253.884.1944

Parks.State.Wa.Us/524/ Joemma-Beach

Vaughn Boat Launch

Boat Launch

-

-

17999 Hall Rd. NW, Vaughn, WA 98394

Home Boat Launch

Boat Launch

-

-

1922 A St., Lakebay, WA 98349

Wollochet Bay Boat Ramp

Boat Launch

-

-

37th St. NW, Gig Harbor, WA 98335

Purdy Boat Launch Ramp

Boat Launch

-

-

7726 WA-302, Gig Harbor, WA 98329

Gig Harbor Public Boat Launch

Boat Launch

253.305.1000

-

8723 Randall Dr., Gig Harbor, WA 98332

Longbranch Boat Launch

Boat Launch

-

-

15603 72nd St. SW, Longbranch, WA 98351

Book Store

253.853.3355

NoDearthofBooks.com

7803 Pioneer Way, Gig Harbor, WA 98335

Chalet in the Woods

Boutique

253.851.8678

ChaletintheWoods.com

9406 74th Ave. NW, Gig Harbor, WA 98332

Tickled Pink

Clothing & Accessories

253.858.1751

TickledPinkStores.com

3026 Harborview Dr. NW, Gig Harbor, WA 98335

Treasures 4 Humanity

Clothing & Accessories

206.250.6563

Treasures4Humanity.com

7811 Pioneer Way, Gig Harbor, WA 98335

Sharon’s Resale Boutique

Clothing & Accessories

253.851.3550

Ship to Shore Marine & Kayak

Boating Merchandise

253.858.6090

ShiptoShoreMarine.com

3403 Harborview Dr., Gig Harbor, WA 98332

Dolly Mama Boutique

Clothing & Accessories

253.851.5113

DollyMamaBoutique.com

7700 Pioneer Way #103, Gig Harbor, WA 98335

Beach Basket Gift, Clothing & Christmas Shop

Gift Shop

253.858.9639

Facebook.com/Beach BasketGiftShop

4102 Harborview Dr., Gig Harbor, WA 98332

The Garden Room & Home

Gift Shop

253.514.6033

TheGardenRoomStore.com

4729 Point Fosdick Dr. NW, Gig Harbor, WA 98335

Maritime Jewelers

Jewelers

253.853.4579

MaritimeJewelers.com

3116 Harborview Dr., Gig Harbor, WA 98335

Clark’s Jewelers

Jewelers

253.851.5395

ClarksJewelers.com

6946 Kimball Dr., Gig Harbor, WA 98335

Ken Walker Jewelers

Jewelers

253.851.6516

KenWalkerJewelers.com

4912 Point Fosdick Dr. NW, Gig Harbor, WA 98335

van der Veen Jewelers

Jewelers

253.514.8478

VanderVeenJewelers.com

4711 Point Fosdick Dr. NW, Gig Harbor, WA 98335

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Facebook.com/Harbor LandingMall

3226 Harborview Dr., Gig Harbor, WA 98335

SHOPPING No Dearth of Books

Harbor Landing Indoor Shopping Mall

Mall

SharonsResaleBoutique.com

7620 Pioneer Way, Gig Harbor, WA 98335

Uptown Gig Harbor • Mall 4701 Point Fosdick Dr., Gig Harbor, WA 98335 253.851.4557 • UptownGigHarbor.com Over 35 shops, specialty stores and restaurants all located within walking distance in a charming outdoor shopping center. Shoppers can choose from a mix of national retailers and local merchants offering the latest fashions, or enjoy a bite at a wide selection of fine-dining or quick takeout restaurants and cafes.

For the Love of Spice

Spice Store

253.858.0272

LoveofSpice.com

3104 Harborview Dr., Gig Harbor, WA 98335

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Gig Harbor Beer Festival

Event

Spring

-

GigHarborBeerFestival.com

Cinco de Mayo Celebration

Event

Spring

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GigHarborFoundation.org

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Welcome In The New Year!

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Gig Harbor Paddlers Cup

Event

Spring

-

GigHarborPaddlersCup.com

Easter Egg Hunt at Sehmel Homested Park

Event

Spring

-

PenMetParks.org/Parks/SehmelHomestead-Park

The Green Gig

Event

Spring

-

GigHarborFoundation.org

Madrona Links Golf Course

Golf Course

Spring / Summer / Fall

253.851.5193

MadronaLinks.com

Gig Harbor Golf Club

Golf Course

Spring / Summer / Fall

253.851.2428

GHGolfClub.com

Gig Harbor Gondola

Water Activity

Spring / Summer / Fall

253.432.0052

GigHarborGondola.com

Uptown Gig Harbor Summer Concert Series

Event

Summer

-

UpTownGigHarbor.com

Food Truck Feast At Sehmel Homestead Park

Event

Summer

-

PenMetParks.org

Summer Sounds at Skansie

Event

Summer

-

GigHarborGuide.com

Duffy Electric Boat Rentals at Gig Harbor Yachts • Boat Rental • Summer 3419 Harborview Dr. (Dockside), Gig Harbor, WA 98332 253.358.3491 • GigHarborYachts.com/Electric-Boat-Rentals.html Hire an experienced skipper or captain the boat yourself aboard one of these all-electric boats. You’ll enjoy a memorable experience on the water while you take in the sights. Don’t forget to grab a coolor and picnic basket for the ride, and head aboard with family and friends for the ultimate relaxing harbor cruise.

Lee’s SUP & Kayak Rentals Pier into the Night 7 Seas Brewing Galaxy Luxury Theatres Heritage Distilling Company

Water Activity

Summer

253.858.7341

LeesSUP1.com

Event

Winter

-

HarborWildWatch.org

Brewery

Year-Round

253.514.8129

7SeasBrewing.com

Movie Theater

Year-Round

253.851.8300

GalaxyTheatres.com/Movie-Theater/ GigHarbor

Distillery

Year-Round

253.509.0008

HeritageDistilling.com

TOP TEN THINGS TO DO

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Explore by Water

Have a Ball

Whether by sail, powerboat, kayak, SUP or electric boat, much of the city’s charm and natural wonders are best seen from the water.

Entertainment options abound, from Galaxy’s IMAX theaters or arcade games, duckpin bowling and a laser tag venue at Ocean5 to creative art classes with AR Workshop.

Support Local

Make Friends

Gig Harbor’s independent boutiques, artists and specialty shops dot the harbor—visits to the Westside and Uptown business districts are a fun excursion as well.

Events and live music are a cornerstone of the harbor’s year-round calendar. From live music in the park to family movies, fall fun runs and cultural fundraisers, there’s always a gathering to suit any interest.

Tip a Glass

Take a Look Back

Brewery, winery, distillery—take your pick. Many favorites were born here in the harbor, and tastings are a great way to preview local libations. Drop in for a cocktail at Heritage Distillery, or try a local brew from favorites 7 Seas Brewing or Wet Coast.

Gig Harbor has a rich maritime history, showcased through gems like the Harbor History Museum or guided tours on the harbor’s Prohibition days.

Share a Plate

Tee Up

Inventive eateries vary from casual grab-and-go spots to fine dining and top-rated seafood shacks.

Hit the greens at several courses, including Madrona Links, the Canterwood Golf & Country Club or the Gig Harbor Golf Club.

Walk on the Wild Side

Capture the Moment

Grab a set of wheels and glide on the Cushman Trail, which winds through the harbor and connects to the Narrows Bridge. Nearby Sehmel Homestead Park offers hiking trails, play areas and gardens to explore.

In one of America’s most picturesque towns, photography options abound—choose from an array of backdrops: a lighthouse framed by Mount Rainier and the Puget Sound, sailboats dotting the harbor, or a beach set against the Narrows Bridge.

GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL

LIFT OFF YOUR DIGITAL MARKETING

We elevate your digital marketing faster and more efficiently than ever before, and all you have to do is ride with us ... That’s it!

HOW DOES YOUR BUSINESS PERFORM ONLINE? Run your FREE business scan by visiting: www.RocketFishDigital.com Social Media Management | SEO | Branding and Creative Content Development | Website Building | Reputation Management Google Optimization | Podcast Production | And More Contact us Today at info@like-media.com

We Provide: » Massage » Waxing/Sugaring » Body Treatments » Facials & Skin Care » Nail Care » Spray Tanning

Relax Today! *Appointments & Gift Certificates Can Easily Be Made or Purchased Online

bluemoonmassage-spa.com

253.509.0258

7700 Pioneer Way, Ste. 101 Gig Harbor, WA 98335 GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL

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OTHER SERVICES Mackert Automotive LLC Peninsula Light Co. Coast Movers

Auto Repair

253.851.3307

MackertAutomotive.com

3416-B 57th St. Ct., Gig Harbor, WA 98335

Electric Utility

253.857.5950

PenLight.org

13315 Goodnough Dr. NW, Gig Harbor, WA 98332

Moving

888.546.6820

CoastMovers.com

3621 Hunt St., Gig Harbor, WA 98335

PARKS

96

Adam Tallman Park 6811 Wagner Way, Gig Harbor, WA 98335

City Park

Ancich Waterfront Park 3525 Harborview Dr., Gig Harbor, WA 98332

City Park

Austin Estuary Park 4009 Harborview Dr., Gig Harbor, WA 98332

City Park

Bogue Viewing Platform 8763 N Harborview Dr., Gig Harbor, WA 98332

City Park

Crescent Creek Park 3303 Vernhardson St., Gig Harbor, WA 98332

City Park

Cushman Trail Borgen Blvd., Hollycroft St., Grandview St.

City Park

Donkey Creek Park 8714 N. Harborview Dr., Gig Harbor, WA 98332

City Park

Eddon Boat Park 3805 N. Harborview Dr., Gig Harbor, WA 98332

City Park

Maritime Pier 3003 Harborview Dr., Gig Harbor, WA 98332

City Park

Skansie Brothers Park 3207 Harborview Dr., Gig Harbor, WA 98332

City Park

Skate Park 3510 Grandview St., Gig Harbor, WA 98332

City Park

Jerisich Dock 3211 Harborview Dr., Gig Harbor, WA 98332

City Park

Harbor Family Park 6620 32nd St. NW, Gig Harbor, WA 98335

PenMet Parks

Narrows Park 1502 Lucille Pkwy NW, Gig Harbor, WA 98335

PenMet Parks

Rosedale Park and Community Hall 86th Ave. NW & Rosedale St.

PenMet Parks

Sehmel Homestead Park 10123 78th Ave. NW, Gig Harbor, WA 98332

PenMet Parks

Gateway Park 10405 State Route 302, Gig Harbor, WA 98329

Key Pen Parks

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GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL

Passive-use wildlife park with walking trails and wetlands offering interpretive signage and viewing platforms. No restrooms. On-site parking.

Viewing platform with grand staircase leading from the platform down to a lowerlevel plaza with picnic tables and public restrooms. An ADA lift can transport those with disabilities down to the water level.

City park with a picnic table and human-powered watercraft landing access. Public trail extends under the bridge and connects with Donkey Creek Park. No restrooms.

Street parking only.

Waterfront mini-park with an urban plaza and shoreline viewing offering panoramic views of Mount Rainier. Seating and tables available for public use. No restrooms.

Street parking only.

Previously known as “City Park,” a large open-air structure with covered kitchen, play structure, swings, climbing structures, basketball and tennis courts, and baseball field with bleachers are open to the public. Picnic tables and seating available, call to reserve.

Paved 6.2-mile trail that features seating, picnic tables, restrooms and parking at points along the trail. Three trailheads are accessible within the city at Borgen Boulevard, Hollycroft Street and ​Grandview Street.

1.3-acre natural park with large grassy open area. Bordered by salmon-bearing Donkey Creek, with a trail that connects to Austin Estuary Park alongside the Harbor History Museum. Benches and restrooms provided for public use. Street parking only.

Historic boat-building park with water-access offering landing for human-powered boats, public pier and float, and up to 2-hour moorage at no fee. The brick house provides a kitchen, and there is access to a sandy beach. Street parking only.

Pier and 12 x 40 foot load/unload float for mixed use, as well as load/unload facility for commercial vessels. Year-round pump-out. Life jacket loaner station available.

Restrooms and seating. On-site parking.”

Large waterfront open space offering a covered pavilion, and featuring an historic netshed and home adjacent to Jerisich Dock that helps celebrate and preserve Gig Harbor’s maritime heritage. Restrooms on site. Street parking only.

Park includes large concrete bowl for skaters, kids’ climbing wall, play structures, benches and trails with video surveillance. Restrooms available at Grandview Forest Park (adjacent). On-site parking.

Public dock offering welcome plaza with restrooms, featuring seasonal splash pad/ water feature, and an accessible viewing deck with picnic tables. Free for day use; water and power available. Boats moored past 8 p.m. must register at kiosk.

18.7-acre wooded park open to the public and accessible via primitive trails. No picnic areas or restrooms.

35-acre park offering over 1,000 feet of Tacoma Narrows shoreline access, excellent fishing and views of the Tacoma Narrows bridge. Picnic area and non motorized boat launch available. Features a gazebo, paved pathways and two viewing telescopes.

Rosedale Playfield offers a combination fenced grass youth soccer field, a grass 200-foot softball diamond, two outdoor tennis courts and a half-basketball court. Rosedale Hall is located adjacent to the tennis courts and can be rented for community and organizational events.

Large 98-acre park that includes a Boundless Playground, artificial turf soccer field, football, lacrosse and softball fields, the Boeing Mariners Care baseball field, tennis and basketball courts, a 1,500-person amphitheater and a pavilion, in addition to picnic areas and more.

72-acre park featuring plenty of parking, restrooms, play areas for all ages and a large pavilion. Trailhead to popular 360 Trails.

Birdnest Gallery & C ustom P iCture F raminG Established 2002

Downtown Gig Harbor 3202 Tarabochia St. 98335

FINE ART, HAND-CRAFTED GIFTS, HOME DECOR • A distinctive collection of Northwest art by over 70 Northwest artists • Framed Art • Prints • Original Paintings • Metal Sculpture • Bronzes • Pottery • Jewelry • Home Decor

SPECIALIZING IN INNOVATIVE CUSTOM PICTURE FRAMING • Over sixteen years of framing experience. No project too big or too small.

• Custom Framed Mirrors • Canvas Stretching • Art Hanging Services • In-stock ready made frames in standard sizes • Fastest project turn-around time in Gig Harbor

BirdnestGallery.com • 253.857.6341

GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL

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97

YUM your local dining guide RECIPES LOCAL FLAVOR SPOTLIGHTS

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GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL

ANTHONY’S

Seafood | Curbside Pickup

253.853.6353 | Anthonys.com | 8827 N Harborview Dr.

BBQ2U

Texas-Style BBQ | Takeout

LOCAL

253.313.5656 | TexasBBQ2U.com | 4814 Point Fosdick Dr. NW

BRIMSTONE

EATS

BBQ | Takeout & Delivery

253.858.2709 | BBQBrimstone.com | 7707 Pioneer Way

DEVOTED KISS CAFE

American | Takeout & Delivery

253.851.0055 | DevotedKissCafe.com | 8809 N Harborview Dr. Ste. 203

EL PUEBLITO

Mexican | Takeout & Delivery

253.858.9077 | ElPueblitoRestaurant.com | 3226 Harborview Dr.

FONDI

Italian | Takeout & Delivery

253.851.6666 | Fondi.com | 4621 Point Fosdick Dr. NW

HARBOR GENERAL STORE American Cafe | Takeout

253.358.3241 | HarborGeneral.com | 7804 Pioneer Way

HY IU HEE HEE

American Pub | Takeout & Delivery 253.851.7885 | JPSBars.com | 4309 Burnham Dr.

IL LUCANO

Italian | Takeout

253.514.8945 | IlLucanoRistorante.com | 3119 Judson St.

MARKETPLACE

Grille

MARKETPLACE GRILL American | Takeout

253.858.3487 | 8825 N Harborview Dr. # 3C-D

MILLVILLE PIZZA CO.

Pizza | Takeout & Delivery

253.514.8626 | MillvillePizzaCo.com | 3409 Harborview Dr.

MOCTEZUMA’S

Mexican | Takeout & Delivery

253.851.8464 | Moctezumas.com | 4628 Pt. Fosdick Dr. NW

MORSO

American Bistro | Takeout

takeout & delivery guide

253.530.3463 | MorsoWineBar.com | 9014 Peacock Hill Ave Ste. 100B

TA S T E O F PERU

TASTE OF PERU

Peruvian | Takeout & Delivery

253.313.5198 | TasteOfPeruOnline.com | 5500 Olympic Dr. D101

TIDES TAVERN

American Pub | Takeout & Delivery

253.858.3982 | TidesTavern.com | 2925 Harborview Dr.

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99

BBQ2U There’s nothing like a plate of pure Southern comfort.

BBQ2U brings all the smoky flavors of Texas-style barbecue right here to our backyard. Patrons are treated just like family and will enjoy the unique dining atmosphere. Open seven days a week from 11am to 8pm.

Healthy

4814 Pt. Fosdick Dr. NW | Gig Harbor 253.313.5656 | TexasBBQ2U.com

that tastes good!

Smoothies Acai Bowls Oatein Herbal Tea Tea Bombs Meal Planning Nutrition Coaching

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. Monday through Thursday 11am to 8pm, Friday and Saturday 11am to 9pm, Sunday 11am to 8pm.

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

MOCTEZUMA’S Voted best Mexican Restaurant in South Sound Magazine for 2019! 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

MILKVUE HANDCRAFTED DONUTS + COFFEE Experience inspirational donut creations and the "happiest" customer service! Known for fresh mochi donuts, raised (with vegan options), filled, fritters and cake donuts, enjoy a variety of unique flavors including horchata, blueberry lavender, cookies and cream, maple bacon, raspberry and more! Also enjoy Italian sodas, Bubble Tea and Olympia Coffee. Takeout only. Stop in Mon.-Wed. 8am-5pm, Fri. 7am-5pm, Sat.-Sun. 9am-5pm.

253.432.4529 | Instagram.com/MilkVue Facebook.com/Milkvue-Handcrafted-DonutsCoffee-114242959995704

PHO EVER WOK

253.649.5123

5247 OLYMPIC DR, SUITE A GIG HARBOR, WA 98335 GrandNutritionCo GrandNutritionGH

grandnutritionco.com 100

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GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL

Whether it's a hot lunch or dinner you're looking for, look no further than Pho Ever Wok, where their traditional Vietnamese pho is always sure to satisfy. Whether you like your soup mild or spicy, they'll prepare it just the way you like it, and vegan and vegetarian options are available as well. Even better, the prices can't be beat, and there's plenty of parking. Also available for takeout. Open Monday through Saturday 10:30am to 9pm.

4819 Pt. Fosdick Dr. NW | Gig Harbor 253.858.8399

GRAND NUTRITION Grand Nutrition says goodbye to bland and hello to delicious, serving up food that feels as good as it tastes.

Customer favorites include smoothies, acai bowls and oatein. Grand Nutrition also offers meal planning and nutrition coaching. Open Monday through Friday 8am to 6pm, and Saturday from 9am to 3pm.

5247 Olympic Dr. NW, Ste. A | Gig Harbor 253.649.5123 | GrandNutritionCo.com

FIRST

FREE! WOR

KOUT

OCCASIONS COFFEE & CREPES Gig Harbor’s home for coffee and 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 Pt. Fosdick Dr. NW, Ste. 109 | Gig Harbor 253.851.2576 Facebook.com/OccasionsCoffeeAndCrepes

LELE'S RESTAURANT When Grandma is the head cook, you know the food will be authentic, delicious and made with heart. Every day they work to create a traditional taste of their homeland for their guests, serving each bite of Southeast Asia with a story of culture, authenticity and survival. Lele’s is open daily from 11am to 9pm.

4747 Pt. Fosdick Dr. NW, Ste. 200 | Gig Harbor 253.514.6382 | LeleGigHarbor.com

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

- NO CLASS TIMES -

MS. SAIGON VIETNAMESE CUISINE Ms. Saigon provides Vietnamese cuisine accessible to everyone, with a menu that includes grain-free, vegetarian and vegan options. Celebrating their grand opening back in April of 2019, Ms. Saigon is a new and welcome addition to the Gig Harbor dining scene. Open daily 11am to 9pm.

5160 Pt. Fosdick Dr. NW, Ste. C101 | Gig Harbor 253.649.0915 | MsSaigonGigHarbor.com

EAT

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

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

FRESH

eat local Check out our featured recipe!

GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL

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101

WILD ALASKAN SALMON CAKES WITH LEMON TARTAR SAUCE Recipe Courtesy of Tina VanDenHeuvel You can follow Tina @madebetterforyou on Instagram SALMON CAKES: 1 1/2 lbs. fresh salmon filet 3 tbsp. unsalted butter, divided 2 tbsp. avocado oil 1 cup medium yellow onion, finely diced 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced 1 1/2 tsp. minced garlic 1 tsp. black pepper (or to taste) 1 tsp. sea salt 1 cup almond flour 2 large eggs lightly beaten 2 tbsp. olive oil 3 tbsp. mayonnaise (I like Primal Kitchen brand) 1 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce 1 tbsp. dried dill METHOD: • Preheat Oven to 425˚F. Line rimmed baking sheet with parchment or silicone liner. Place salmon in the center, skin side down. Bake uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes (depending on thickness) or just until cooked through. Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature. Flake salmon with two forks, discarding skin and any bones then set aside.

• Heat a medium skillet over medium heat with 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon avocado oil. Add diced onion and bell pepper, garlic, salt and pepper, and sauté until golden and softened (7 to 9 minutes), then remove from heat.

• In a large mixing bowl, combine flaked salmon, sautéed pepper and onion, almond flour, beaten eggs, olive oil, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce and dill. Stir to combine.

• Form into patties using a 1/3-cup measuring cup and mold with your hands into 2" wide by 1/3 to 1/2" thick patties.

• In a clean non-stick pan, heat 1 tablespoon avocado oil and 1 tablespoon butter until hot, then add salmon patties in a single layer. Sauté 3 to 4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. If salmon patties brown too fast, reduce heat.

Remove finished patties to a paper towel-lined plate and repeat with remaining oil, butter and salmon cakes.

L E M O N TA R TA R S A U C E : 1 cup mayonnaise (I like Primal Kitchen brand) 1 cup dill pickles, finely chopped 1 tbsp. fresh lemon zest 2 tsp. dried dill 2 tbsp. dill pickle juice METHOD: • Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir to combine.

To Serve: Top Wild Alaskan Salmon Cakes with tartar sauce and squeeze fresh lemon juice on top for extra tartness.

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AWA R D-W I N N I N G

Mexican Mexican Restaurant Restaurant

Offering Curbside Pickup!

TACOMA | SOUTHCENTER | GIG HARBOR | SILVERDALE www.MOCTEZUMAS.com

2014 - 2018

NEW

+

Voted #5 Best Mexican Restaurant Bar in America!

2014 - 2019

COVID SAFE

We have recently installed state of the art ActivePure® Air Scrubber Technology in all of our restaurant’s air ventilation units. The certified technology continuously purifies the air and attacks contaminants in the air and on surfaces, allowing us to happily welcome you back to dine in our restaurants.

Visit our website to learn more about the ActivePure® Air Scrubber and the many other precautions we are taking to ensure a safe and healthy environment!

Occasions Coffee and Crepes Serving Paninis, Crepes, Forza Coffee & More!

JANUARY CREPE SPECIALS Mushroom & Brie, and Pumpkin Cheesecake

Be sure to check out Clay & Cloth Designs!

4700 Pt. Fosdick Dr. NW, Ste. 109, Gig Harbor, WA 253.851.2576 | f @OccasionsCoffeeandCrepes

GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL

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At Olympic Alzheimer’s Residence, it is our goal to provide quality care with a focus on wellness.

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Olympic Alzheimer’s Residence 3025 14th Ave. NW . Gig Harbor, WA 98335 (253) 851-5306 · www.PrestigeCare.com

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IT’S TIME TO

GET TASTING EXPLORE LOCAL WINERIES, BREWERIES AND DISTILLERIES

By Jillian Chandler

W

ith our eyes now set on the new year before us, and looking to make the most of what 2021 has to offer, make it a point to discover the many talents and flavors Gig Harbor and the surrounding area have to offer when it comes to wine, brews and spirits. And though area tasting rooms are unfortunately closed for the time being, you can have some joy in knowing that you can still support local business while imbibing in the comfort and safety of your own home.

Get your friends or family in on it as well, and hold a virtual tasting together via Skype or Zoom. You may just discover your new favorite wine, beer or spirit while having a little socially distanced fun.

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in the harbor, it only makes sense to support local when looking for a cold brew. 7 Seas, Wet Coast, Gig Harbor Brewing and Fox Island Brewing are just a handful of homegrown choices that are sure to quench your thirst.

For those who enjoy craft spirits, Heritage Distilling Co. is a must stop. Featuring whiskeys, vodkas, gins, aquavit and rums, enjoy an evening in sipping your favorite as you sit back and relax after a long day.

If it’s wine your palate prefers, stop at one of our local shops or wineries, and purchase a bottle or two you have yet to try.

If you’re looking to enjoy cocktails at home, but don’t want the hassle of having to buy all the ingredients yourself, many area restaurants are offering their delightful signature cocktails to go.

The next time you’re ordering out for delivery or pickup, don’t forget the beverages.

With so many top-notch breweries making their homes right here

Cheers to a new year with a glass of Gig Harbor’s finest.

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1013 FOR EVEN TS, VISIT GIG HARBORLIVIN GLOCAL.COM.

/JANUARY

FUN & ENTERTAINMENT

0131

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VENETIAN GONDOLA CRUISES If you are looking to brighten your new year with a fun, family friendly adventure out on the water, book a cruise on the only Venetian gondola operating in the Pacific Northwest. The Gig Harbor Gondola operates out of the Gig Harbor Marina & Boatyard, 3117 Harborview Drive, and is ready to guide you through the harbor while creating an unforgettable experience.

The cost to tour half the harbor (one-hour gondola ride) is $85 for two people and $20 for each additional person (up to six people). A full hour (90 minutes) is $115 for two people and $20 for each additional person (up to six people). You can book your reservation online at GigHarborGondola.com. For large groups, call 253.432.0052 to book your cruise. Please note that there are current COVID-19 guidelines that will be followed, which can also be found on their website.

VIRTUAL BEACH MONITORING Join Harbor WildWatch on the beach via Facebook Live to experience some of Harbor WildWatch's Community Science beach monitoring. These beach monitoring events give viewers insight on the community science program from the comfort of home. All you have to do is tune in to the Harbor WildWatch Facebook page at the scheduled time. If you miss the live viewing, you can access the video once it's been posted to Facebook.com/ HarborWildWatch. In the Community Science Beach program, community members are trained to collect a variety of data on local beaches, estuaries and creeks, including: marine invertebrates and algae, sea star wasting, nearshore forage fish, spawning Chum salmon, invasive and non-native plants, water quality and more.

To find out more, visit HarborWildWatch.org.

STORYWALK® SERIES Hosted by Greater Gig Harbor Foundation’s Curious by Nature School, CBNS invites families to read a favorite children's book while you walk, run, hop, skip or crawl through a nature trail. It’s a fun and free activity for the entire family to spend time together outside in nature—where there’s plenty of space to social distance!

This activity also promotes exercise and builds literacy skills. In a storywalk, you will discover an entire book laminated and mounted page-by-page on yard signs along the Adam Tallman Park trail. It will take about 30 minutes and 0.5 miles to complete each 15- to 20page book. Start at the trailhead closest to the Adam Tallman Park parking lot and follow the storywalk signs. Be sure to be considerate of others and practice social distancing guidelines and follow the nature park’s rules.

* Please note, as of press time, these events were still scheduled to take place as planned. Due to the current health crisis, there is the possibility that event schedules may change or events canceled completely. Be sure to visit event websites to stay up to date with current information.

SUBMIT YOUR EVENTS ONLINE! Want your event to appear on the largest event site in the Northwest? Submit your events to us online at Events.DirectoryNorthwest.com 24/7, 365 days a year!

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FOR YOUR VOTES!

Primary Healthcare for All Ages!

Accepting New Patients

Services: Family Medical Services Annual & Sports Physicals Preventative Care Immunizations/Flu Shots Well Woman & Child Exams Same-Day Sick Visits Health Education & Management Acute Illness Treatment Referrals

in Healthcare

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

SAVE OUR STUDENTS We serve homeless and at-risk youth through: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Host Home Program for Homeless Students Mentoring Program for Students Transportation Food Program Clothing

Scot Fleshman, ARNP, FNP - BC

To learn more about our programs, VISIT OUR WEBSITE OR CONTACT US!

4423 Point Fosdick Dr NW, Suite 306 (253) 432-4437 www.rainierfamilymedicine.com

HarborHopeCenter.org • info@harborhopecenter.org

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ARE YOU HAPPY WITH YOUR

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For Bookings, Inquiries & Homeowner Information: GoSandpoint.com | 208.610.4416 | Jackson@GoSandpoint.com 112

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IMAGINE

YOUR DREAMS FOR 2021

What you imagine, we can make happen.

Joe Sanchez & Associates Coldwell Banker Bain REALTORS®

“We Sell Homes. We Build Relationships.”

253-853-2262 | JSAssociates@CBBain.com | WaterfrontGigHarbor.com

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Benjamin Moore Color of the Year 2021 — Aegean Teal 2136-40

Welcoming the Colors of 2021 Select the ideal Benjamin Moore product for your space, available in pint samples. Visit us and take yours home today.

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PORT TOWNSEND 315 Decatur Street 114

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GIG HARBOR 5500 Olympic Drive NW BAINBRIDGE ISLAND 937 Hildebrand Lane

206.842-2227

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360.373.5999

Visit benjaminmoore.com © 2021 Benjamin Moore & Co., and the triangle “M” symbol are registered trademarks and Paint like no other are trademarks licensed to Benjamin Moore & Co.

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(253) 530-7300

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