February 2018 Gig Harbor Living Local

FEBRUARY 2018

LIVING LOCAL

Travel & Leisure

Romantic Getaways

three unique

Washington Wineries

Life & Community Cocktails and Fishtails!

Get featured! Join us on Facebook...

pg. 18

#gigharborliving GigHarborLivingLocal.com

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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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Exceptional living exceptional QUALITY Westmoreland Properties is skipping Winter! the spring market IS HERE! 2 days on market with multiple offers!

CAROLYN WESTMORELAND Broker/Owner WESTMORELAND PROPERTIES 253-961-5596 carolyn@westmorelandproperties.net Exceptional Service, Exceptional Company.

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.

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Featured listing MLS#: 1234716

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PROTECTION FOR A PROTECTION FOR A HOME. PLACE CALLED

PLACE CALLED HOME.

Home – it’s where life happens and dreams are brought to life. Let me help you protect what matters most with Home – it’s where life happens are brought the customizable coverage you needand anddreams the support to life. Let me help you protect what matters most with you deserve – all at an affordable rate.Let’s talk today. the customizable coverage you need and the support you deserve – all at an affordable rate.Let’s talk today.

Timothy Lopez Agency Agency 7512Timothy Stanich Lopez Lane Unit 2 Stanich Lane Unit 2 Gig 7512 Harbor, WA 98335 Harbor, WA 98335 (253)Gig858-7200 (253) 858-7200 www.trlopez.com www.trlopez.com

American Family Mutual Insurance Company, American Family Insurance Company, 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 ©2015 011760 – 2/16

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American Family Mutual Insurance Company, American Family Insurance Company, 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 ©2015 011760 – 2/16

Your local Gig Harbor moving company

We are more than a moving company!

Check us out and see our list of services

Google Reviews

"Another thing I liked about this company - they have no hidden fees!"

"Gave us a solid move for a very reasonable price."

"The move was done quicker than expected and absolutely pain free!"

GigHarborMovers.com 888-546-6820

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Feeling Good is Good to Feel

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Come celebrate life on the water.

Maritime Jewelers

Board the only authentic Venetian gondola in the Pacific Northwest and let the stress melt away.

Exceptional Collection Estate & Consignment Fine Jewelry Diamonds & Rare Gems Custom Designs Jewelry Repair

Gift Certifi cates Available Let Gig Harbor’s beauty be the backdrop of your celebration.

Visit

In-House Master Jeweler and Graduate Gemologist

GigHarborGondola.com

for more information.

John Synco Gig Harbor Marina & Boatyard

3117 Harborview Drive Gig Harbor, Washington 253.432.0052

gigharborgondola@gmail.com f Gig Harbor Gondola

253.853.4579 • 866.346.GEMS 3116 Harborview Drive, “Voted Finest Jeweler” Gig Harbor, WA 98335 Open Tuesday - Saturday 11am - 5pm www.maritimejewelers.com

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Shop Local

at Uptown Gig Harbor

van der Veen Jewelers Locally owned and operated. Fine jewelry, custom creations and repair. We have gifts of LOVE for every budget!

SHOP SIP STROLL DINE DISCOVER

9Round A 9Round membership is a great gift to give everyone you care about (including yourself)! During February, split the registration cost when you sign up with a friend! f @9RoundGigHarbor

Uptown Eyes How does your eyewear define you?

Come check out our amazing lineup of fashionable eyewear and we’ll have you not only seeing better, but you’ll feel better!

The Garden Room Spring is coming and love is definitely in the air! Not only will you find everything from candles, signs, throw-pillows, chocolates, and more for your Valentine in The Garden Room, but we employ one of the most talented floral designers in the Harbor! Lisa’s custom, everlasting arrangements range from a simple bouquet to elaborate sprays and centerpieces! Whether for a wedding, party, or just for your love, come in and let her design the most perfect arrangement for your most perfect day! $29.99 and up!”

Blue Agave Treat your loved ones to a great lunch or dinner at Blue Agave Mexican Grill.

Enjoy our different margaritas for National Margarita Day February 22!

Massage Envy 60

$

FACIAL

Intro 60-min session*

New skin care services!

• Customized Healthy Skin facial Session • Men’s Facial Session • 90 Minute Advanced Facial Session • Anti-Acne Back Facial Session • Exfoliating & Hydrating Back Facial Session

Whatever the reason, keep your skin looking and feeling its best with a personalized facial from the skin care experts at Massage Envy.

MassageEnvy.com/facials

New

Gig Harbor Massage Envy

SKIN CARE SERVICES CUSTOMIZED HEALTHY SKIN FACIAL SESSION*

MEN’S FACIAL SESSION*

90-MIN. ADVANCED FACIAL SESSION*

4641 Pt. Fosdick Dr. NW Gig Harbor, WA 98335 253-853-4555

M–F 8a-10p 9a–9p | S 8a-10p 10a–8p | Su 8a-7p 10a–6p

ANTI-ACNE BACK FACIAL SESSION*

EXFOLIATING & HYDRATING BACK FACIAL SESSION*

Enhancements – EXFOLIATING HAND | ANTI-AGING EYE | EXFOLIATING FOOT

*A 60-minute session includes 50 minutes of hands-on service and 10 minutes for consultation and dressing. A 90-minute session includes 80 minutes of hands-on service and 10 minutes for consultation and dressing. Prices subject to change. Each Massage Envy location is independently owned and operated.

Rates and services may vary by franchised location and session. Not all Massage Envy franchised locations offer facials or all facial/massage enhancements (e.g., Exfoliating Foot Treatment may not be available at certain franchised locations).

For a specific list of services and enhancements, check with specific location.

Additional local taxes and fees may apply. ©2016 Massage Envy Franchising, LLC. ME-VDPT-1669-L1-000-0000

MultiCare Healthy Reflections Boutique Each unique glassybaby is handcrafted, from sand to hand to heart. Votives with color and light for people who love to give kindness.

Always in stock and starting at $50. multicare.org/boutique

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Over 30 Shopping, Dining & Entertainment Options!

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

FEBRUARY 2018

VOLUME 5 NUMBER 2

features 74 Wine & Dine Yourself

A guide to wine for those who stay in with takeout this Valentine’s Day.

77 Tips for Tasters

Everything you need to know about wine tasting tasting, just in time for Valentine’s Day.

82 So You’re Engaged Tips to making your day the best it can be.

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now OPEN in TACOMA

eco home decor and furniture from the heart

as seen on King 5 Evening Magazine

2416 South C Street TACOMA WA 98402 tree.co l hello@tree.co

shop for handcrafted timeless eco-furniture made with heart and your home in mind GigHarborLivingLocal.com

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tree.us

f tree.co.us

open everyday from 10am to 6pm

GIGHARBORLIVINGLOCAL.COM

Eat. Shop. Enjoy.

MARKETING

Washington Director | Julie Reed 253.273.8524 | julie@livinglocal360.com Washington Marketing Director | Emily Maze 253.282.8862 | emily@livinglocal360.com

EDITORIAL

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

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redit: hoto c

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

7804 PIONEER WAY, GIG HARBOR

253.358.3241

www.theharborgeneralstore.com GigHarborLivingLocal.com

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DESIGN

Creative Director Senior Designer | Graphic Designer Graphic Designer

| Whitney Lebsock Rachel Figgins | Maddie Russo | Darbey Scrimsher

ACCOUNTING/OPERATIONS

Managing Partner | Kim Russo Executive Director | Steve Russo

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Lisa Hystek Photography

GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL MAGAZINE

is brought to you by LivingLocal360.com.

If you would like to advertise with us please call 253.273.8524 or email info@livinglocal360.com. To submit articles, photos, nominations and events, email us at events@livinglocal360.com.

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

Green Cottage Pets See what a difference a good diet will do for your pet.

A Health Food Store for Dogs & Cats

Featuring Human Quality Foods, Treats and Supplements 3028 Harborview Drive Gig Harbor, Washington 253.851.8806

greencottagepets1@gmail.com www.greencottagepets.com

Captain Saint fuels up at Green Cottage for his big day of sailing!

Primary Healthcare for All Ages Accepting New Patients

Scot Fleshman, ARNP, FNP-BC

• Sports Physicals

• Referrals

• Family Medical Services

• Well Woman Exams

• Annual Physicals

• Well Child Exams

• Preventative Care

• Health Education & Management

• Immunizations

• Chronic Disease Management

• Same Day Sick Visits

• Acute Illness Treatment

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

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

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

Loving where WE LIVE. Put your local photos up on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter and use the hashtag #GigHarborLiving to show us just exactly what you think is so special about Gig Harbor!

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PUBLISHER’S note PUBLISHER’S NOTE FEBRUARY IS THE MONTH of love and romance. Valentine’s Day is a time set aside to let those in our lives know how much we love them and appreciate them. But why have just one day? Shouldn’t we do what we can each and every day to nurture all the relationships in our lives? Whether it is a spouse, significant other, child, parent, sibling, neighbor or co-worker, showing others we value them is better than any gift that can be given.

“WHERE FAMILY IS ALWAYS FIRST.” “ We are committed to providing professional, compassionate assistance in a safe and nurturing environment, ensuring a life of dignity and independence for seniors in our community.”

Men, I’m not saying we shouldn’t do something special for our Valentine on that special day. After all, I do not want to be the one responsible for getting you in the doghouse! What I am saying is all of us, as individuals, want to be loved and accepted for who we are.

One of the best ways we can do this is by spending time with one another. For couples, having a standing “date night” is a great way to accomplish this. If it’s difficult to get a babysitter or if money is an issue, you can still make it happen. Wait until the kids are tucked in for the night and have a special

LIVING LOCAL

unique three shin gton Win erie s

Wa

Life & Community ils!

Get featured! Join us on Facebook...

Fishta Cocktails and

www.familyfirstafh.com

address

4700 Pt. Fosdick Dr. #312 Gig Harbor, WA 98335

1

Proud To Partner

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#gigharborlivin

ingLocal.com

GigHarborLiv

web

Many spend more time with their coworkers than their own families. Extending a simple “thank you” can go a long way to show others they are appreciated.

I would like to end by extending a heartfelt thank you to our readers and clients for the support you show us at Living Local each and every month.

Steve Russo Steve Russo Executive Director steve@livinglocal360.com

THIS MONTH’S COVER SHOT, taken by Lisa Hystek Photography, reflects love and commitment in all of its glory. Love is in the air with Valentine’s Day approaching, and there are sure to be plenty of new engagements taking place around the holiday, so it’s not too early to start thinking wedding season!

Romantic Getaways

253.853.2033

Do work or obligations at home keep you from spending time with your children? One of the best gifts we can give our children is the memory of time spent together. A weekly visit to the park every Saturday morning or a lunch date with our adult child can be things we do that will spark conversation and nurture that relationship.

ABOUT THE COVER

FEBRUARY 2018

Trave l & Leisu re

office

candlelight dinner and a movie.

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STAND TALL TO

LIVE LONGER

What if you’re pain wasn’t caused by age, genes, sports, housework, yardwork, or your shoes?

We Simplify Life’s Transitions ✓ Plan

CONVERGENT THERAPIES

✓ Rightsize ✓ Move, Unpack & Settle In

Chiropractic + Massage + Exercise Therapy

GIG HARBOR’S POSTURE CLINIC

Posture Clinic

We’re tackling the poor posture epidemic in Gig Harbor to improve the health of our community one person at a time.

Includes exercise ball, resistance band, & stability pad

$

550

$850 value

253.254.5653 www.ConvergentTherapies.com 3214 50th St Ct NW, Suite 203 (By the Good To Go! offices) 2015

Unwanted Items

7 WEEK

Poor Posture is the main contributor to chronic neck, shoulder, and back pain.

BEST OF GIG HARBOR

✓ Liquidate

BEST OF GIG HARBOR

2016

BEST OF GIG HARBOR

253.777.5895 206.962.0015 RightsizingForSeniors.com

2017

GigHarborLivingLocal.com

Schedule your FREE 1-Hour Consultation!

www.

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GET SOCIAL

CONNECT WITH GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL MAGAZINE

1.

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

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

2.

1.

2.

3.

facebook.com/gigharborliving

pinterest.com/LL360

instagram.com/gigharborliving

twitter.com/gigharborliving

Sunrise fog and a beautiful harbor. #lovewhereilive #gigharborliving dif1998 via #marina #harbor #aerial #drone #pnw #gigharborliving #uav #phantom cward360 via Kayaking on glass #pacificnorthwest #healthylifestyle #gigharborliving #kayaking

CONTACT US TO ADVERTISE Julie Reed Washington Director 253.273.8524 julie@livinglocal360.com

colleen_rustad_ via Contributors Marguerite Cleveland • Annie Nye • Jani Gonzalez • Nancy Hohenstein • Kenny Markwardt • Bri Williams

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Redmond | Sold | $595,000

Kirkland | Sold | $990,000

Olalla | Sold | $519,950

North Tacoma | Sold | $345,000

LYDIA GELINE 253-242-0728 206-419-0775 lgeline@windermere.com www.lydiageline.com

20 Years of Sales in King County Now Selling in Pierce County

SAY YES TO SOMETHING GREATER Creative custom menus| Artful modern spaces |Team of experts to attend to every detail

253.830.6601

1500 Commerce Street

weddings@tacomavenues.org

tacomaconventioncenter.org

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Contents pg. 14

pg. 82

18

Get Featured

56 Business Spotlight

Join our Facebook page Northwest Living for a chance to get your photos, recipes, ideas and more!

Rug Braiding by Donna Mc Keever.

22

Essentials

58 Health & Lifestyle

The latest tips and trends.

Tips and informational articles about living a healthy, active lifestyle.

31

Life & Community

92 Travel & Leisure

32

Business Spotlight

de Recat Photography.

Discover Gig Harbor’s tastiest recipes and amazing restaurants.

52

Business Spotlight

104

Great local events and stories.

Harbor View Dentistry.

Travel and discover the Pacific Northwest.

99 Food & Drink

Arts & Entertainment

Calendar of great local events, music and shows.

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pg. 92

GigHarborHomes Real Estate | LindaPetersenTeam

Live where you play!

It’s time to move!

GigHarborHomes.com info@lindapetersenteam.com

LINDA PETERSEN

SEANA WOHLFEIL

Owner/Broker

Broker

253-549-6290

253-549-3386

253-853-2555

PHOTO BY DIANE FETZNER

HOME LOANS Empowering People to Make Informed Financial Decisions.

TRINETTE GATES

LOAN ORIGINATOR NMLS ID# 112074 CELL: 360.471.8211 EMAIL: Trinette.Gates@nafinc.com www.LoanProGates.com Consumer Loan Company License #CL-6606. © New American Funding. New American and New American Funding are are registered trademarks of Broker Solutions, DBA New American Funding.

All Rights Reserved. Corporate Office (800) 450-2010. 01/2018.

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We Specialize In: • VA HOME LOANS • FHA HOME LOANS • FIRST TIME HOMEBUYER PROGRAMS • CONVENTIONAL LOANS

• • HIGH BALANCE LOAN PRODUCTS • JUMBO FINANCING • SELF EMPLOYED BORROWERS

ESSENTIALS

ELECTRIFY YOUR RIDE. hOW GIG HARBOR

is accommodating new EV ownership

C

BY BRETT MARLO DE SANTIS

hances are that most of you will buy a different car in the next seven years. According to R.L. Polk, the average length of time a driver will keep a new vehicle is six years. Even if you are pondering keeping your vehicle longer, you may think twice due to the major leap in technological advancements such as better safety protection, navigation or automation, and fuel economy or fuel alternatives. If you decide to give up the gas, you may choose to charge at home, at your workplace or a public venue.

This growing movement in the automotive industry affects the design of our built environment. These charging stations require planning, permitting and definitely a viable power source. Electric vehicle (EV) readiness is an evolving topic amongst municipalities, utility companies and private individuals that involves residential, commercial and public infrastructure.

In a world where most of us remember to charge our

phones every day, remembering to charge our cars is not a large leap. While most EVs have the option to plug into a simple wall outlet to charge, Level 2 chargers (240 volt) are preferred and, with some planning, a realistic option.

How do we plan for an electrifying future?

As of just six months ago, registered EV ownership amounted to approximately 25,000 in Washington, with the top three counties being King, Snohomish and Pierce.

Are we currently designing new construction to adapt to EV ownership? Consider additional electrical panel capacity, running conduit to a specific location for ease of later adoption and allocating parking spaces for the connections.

How are we retrofitting existing structures to accommodate new EV ownership? Consider installation type (permanent or removable), amperage

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE PSD TRADES PROGRAM

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cho os shar e a Rea l es y our tor tha t valu es!

www.WeDonateTogether.com

We are bigger than just a home sale “Our Closing Gift is a donation made in your honor!”

Gretchen Allen REALTOR/Broker 253-620-0028 Gretchen@HomesByGretchen.com

We donate a portion of our commission to a charitable organization of the homeowner’s choice and our passion partners who share the same philosophy on giving back!

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Kathryn Dunham REALTOR/ Managing Broker 206-617-7619

24,624 Plug In Electric Vehicles Registered in Washington As of June 30, 2017 Whatcom

632

San Juan

144

Okanogan

231

3

262

159

31

Snohomish

2,596

Chelan

Jefferson

160

912

0 – 50

1,758

905

88

18

Wahkiakum

2

301 – 400

Grant

49

102

501 – 1,000

283

1,001 – 2,000

Klickitat

43

Clark

1,239

28

Garfield

72

Benton

14

401 – 500

Whitman

Franklin

102

Skamania

Adams

5

Yakima

Cowlitz

458

7

Lewis

Pacific

201 – 300

51

Pierce

Thurston

Spokane

Lincoln

13,777 Kittitas

73

Douglas

62

King

119

Grays Harbor

101 – 200

105

Kitsap Mason

51 – 100

8

Stevens

Island Clallam

Pend Oreille

Ferry

20

Skagit

Walla Walla

Columbia

0

2

Asotin

10

54

Out of state

40

2,001+ Map includes Electric Vehicles (EVs) produced by major automakers since about 2011. It does not include cars that were converted to EVs by their owners, neighborhood Evs or EV models from the 1990’s that are still registered in Washington, or motorcycles. WSDOT created this map based on data provided by the Washington State Department of Licensing.

17-09-0350

(more power equals faster charge) and cord length (location, location, location).

Here’s a bit of history courtesy of Chargepoint, presently the leading provider of charging infrastructure in North America. Chargepoint was founded with only 2,000 EVs registered in the United States 10 year ago. In 2008, the Tesla Roadster hit the streets. It was 2009 when the first Chargepoint station was installed in San Jose, California. By 2010, both the Nissan Leaf and the Chevy Volt widened consumers’ EV options. The following year, the numbers of registered EVs soared to 36,500. Quickly, that number tripled in 2012, and Chargepoint installed its 10,000th charging station.

It was only five years ago that more automakers joined the EV market such as BMW, Ford and Mitsubishi, boosting EV ownership to half a million. Home chargers became widely available

in 2015, and last year, the United States boasted more than 1 million EV owners. Within the next five years, Volvo, Jaguar, Land Rover, Hyundai, Mitsubishi, Nissan-Renault, Daimler, GM and BMW will deliver a combined total of over 75 new EV models.

In 2016, the mayor of Seattle announced the Drive Clean Seattle Initiative in an effort to increase the adoption of electric vehicles, and the Seattle City Council created a target of 30 percent EV ownership in Seattle by 2030.

Here in Gig Harbor, EV charging stations started appearing on the scene in 2011.

Chargepoint Level 2 chargers became available to the public in Uptown at 4701 Point Fosdick Drive. After careful consideration, the City of Gig Harbor recently installed two new Level 2 Chargepoint stations: Start at either end of the downtown harbor stretch—Maritime Pier at

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For residents and visitors, the combination of easy access to charging stations with a beautiful walk on the waterfront, enjoying public Wi-Fi at Jerisich Dock, participating in free fun activities at Harbor WildWatch and now complimentary access to the Harbor History Museum is a home run!

3003 Harborview Drive or the Finholm Stair Climb at 8824 North Harborview Drive.

For residents and visitors, the combination of easy access to charging stations with a beautiful walk on the waterfront, enjoying public WiFi at Jerisich Dock, participating in free fun activities at Harbor WildWatch and now complimentary access to the Harbor History Museum is a home run!

A A A H!

affordable adaptable alternative housing

If you are a member of Peninsula Light Company, you may have learned about EVs at their 90th anniversary celebration. Jaqueline Goodwill, PenLight communications manager, states, “We are excited about EVs, and our members are starting to purchase more and more EVs. Our mission is to improve the quality of life of our members and we are interested in working closely with our members as EV adoption increases.”

Plan ahead for a future of clean power— consider EV readiness.

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

We build it.

BRETT MARLO DESIGN BUILD

253 376 7935 - brettmarlo.com GigHarborLivingLocal.com

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LICENSE # BRETTMD892QP

ESSENTIALS

DESIGN TRENDS: FINISHES GLAZING, STAINS, PAINTS AND ANTIQUING

BY ANNIE NYE, INTERIOR DESIGNER WITH SELKIRK GLASS AND CABINETS, A DIVISION OF PONDERAY DESIGN CENTER

D

esign trends change and everyone has different taste. However, one thing stays the same … there are a ton of finish options available no matter what your style and no matter what project you’re working on.

From illness or injury back to thriving in your Body, Home and Community

• Neck, shoulder to hand conditions treated • Parkinson’s Movement Disorders world acclaimed LSVT treatment of choice for Parkinson’s • Vertigo and Balance Treatments • Certified Aging In Place Specialist

First, there are a few basics to know about finishes available and associated terminology for these elements. These finish options can cover everything from cabinets, doors, trim, furnishings, walls, exterior and even countertops.

Glazing, stains, paints and even antiquing procedures all have a multitude of options.

They are briefly outlined below, but all have varying elements that professionals have put their own twist on to brand them as their own.

Antiquing or Vintage touch – This method creates an aged, worn look. This can be achieved by adding dents, gouging and sanding at varying degrees of application.

Distressing can be done before or after any of the below finishes have been applied.

Dry Glazes – This is when glaze is hand applied to only the profiled areas (think where mouldings meet or changes in elevation of a surface). The base color remains unaltered.

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

Pencil Glazes – This is a small line of glazing that is literally applied by drawing it on via a tip or thin brush. Typically this is applied to areas where there are changes in elevation on the surface and leaves the appearance of a simple line.

Wet Glaze – In the wet-glaze process, the glaze is sprayed onto the entire area and then wiped off, altering the overall finish color.

253-514-6842

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

www.IntegrativeBody.net

Stains – Stains are meant to enhance the natural graining of the wood. Light stains show more of the wood grain, and darker stains hide more of the graining, which makes the wood more uniform in color.

Opaque Finishes – This finish completely covers all of the surface. Usually, maple is the

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wood species that’s painted. However, right now, the trend is to paint oak so that the vertical wood grain shows through the paint for a textured paint finish.

Chalk Paints – Ingredients are talc, calcite and pigment. Because of the talc and clay, the sheen is matte when dry.

Milk Paint – Ingredients are lime, clay, milk protein (casein) and pigment. It’s a powder and gets mixed with water, so you can control the intensity of color. It has a naturally matte finish.

Matte Finishes – Matte finishes are becoming more popular as well. Matte black hardware is in such high demand it’s hard to keep in stock. Matte gold hardware (yes brass/ gold!) is also in demand. Hardware refers to everything from lighting and plumbing fixtures to cabinet and bath hardware.

Matte surfaces are also being used on countertops. Manufacturers are offering finishes in both polished and matte sheens.

These matte finishes lend themselves to a muted and sometimes more gray coloring than the polished original.

So, next time you are looking at furniture, shopping for cabinets, picking out new shelving for your living room or simply flipping through a magazine, you can take a closer look at the finishes and know what you are looking at.

THE MAJOR RETIREMENT PLANNING MISSTEPS

WHY ARE THEY MADE AGAIN AND AGAIN?

PROVIDED BY CHERI JOHNSON, FINANCIAL ADVISOR/PLANNER PRINCIPAL, STRATEGIC WEALTH ADVISORS

W

e all look forward to an easy, enjoyable retirement, yet sometimes we sabotage our own future unintentionally. Can you avoid these missteps?

Leaving work too early. Social Security benefits rise about 8 percent for every year you delay receiving them; waiting a few years to apply for benefits can position you for greater retirement income. Some of us are forced to make this misstep; approximately 56 percent of men and 64 percent of women apply for Social Security before full retirement age. If you can delay claiming Social Security, you may receive greater monthly benefits. Ask us for a complimentary Social Security Maximization report.

Underestimating medical bills. In the latest estimate of retiree health-care costs, a couple retiring at 65 will need $275,000 to pay for future health-care costs. That estimate may be conservative, as this does not include eye care, dental care or long-term care expenses.

Taking the potential for longevity too lightly.

Social Security Administration projects that 25 percent of 65-year-olds will live to age 90, with about 10 percent living 95 years or longer. The prospect of a 30-year retirement is not unreasonable; it is important to plan for lifetime income.

Withdrawing too much each year. You may have heard of the “4 percent rule,” a popular guideline stating that you should withdraw only about 4 percent of your retirement savings annually. Many cautious retirees try to abide by it.

So, why do others withdraw 7 or 8 percent a year?

In the first phase of retirement, people tend to live it up; more free time naturally means more opportunity to spend. Understanding what you will spend in retirement is a first step toward avoiding negative financial surprises.

Ignoring tax efficiency. It can be a good idea to have both taxable and tax-advantaged accounts in retirement to create flexibility in how you

produce spending money.

Some retirees find a shortfall when they try to live on portfolio income. In response, they move money into stocks offering significant dividends or high-yield bonds. Taking retirement income off both the principal and interest of a portfolio may provide a better way to reduce ordinary income and income taxes.

Avoiding market risk. Equity investment does invite risk, but the reward may be worth it. In contrast, many fixed-rate investments offer comparatively small yields these days.

Retiring with big debts. It is hard to preserve wealth when you are handing portions of it to creditors.

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Putting college costs before retirement costs. There is no “financial aid” program for retirement. Your children have their whole financial lives ahead of them. Try to refrain from touching your home equity or your IRA to pay for their education expenses.

Retiring with no plan or investment strategy.

An unplanned retirement may bring terrible financial surprises; the absence of a strategy can leave people prone to serious investment mistakes.

These are some of the classic retirement planning missteps. Why not plan to avoid them? Take a little time to review and refine your retirement strategy with a trusted financial planner.

Cheri Johnson may be reached at 253.858.4411 or cheri@strategicwealthadv.com; 5775 Soundview Drive, Suite 202B, Gig Harbor, WA 98335 Cheri Johnson is a registered representative of and securities offered through USA Financial Securities, Member FINRA/SIPC. A registered investment advisor, USA Financial Securities, 6020 E. Fulton Street, Ada, MI 49301. Strategic Wealth Advisors is not affiliated with USA Financial Securities. Copyright Marketing Library Pro.

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www.StrategicWealthAdv.com

253-858-4411

Investment Advisor Representative of USA Financial Securities.

Member FINRA/SIPC. A Registered Investment Advisor.

ESSENTIALS

Know your

Why

A POWER TOOL

BY DEBORAH OLIVE

A

n eyeglass screwdriver has a single purpose. It’s so delicate that if you use it for a job bigger than turning the tiny little screw in a pair of eyeglasses, you could easily destroy it. On the other hand, you can use a hammer to repair a hinge or set a stake. It’s so versatile that you can use it to build a box or a skyscraper.

The screwdriver and the hammer affect our outer world. We use innerworld tools as well. An apology is an example of an inner-world tool that affects our outer world. It can bring a tear, a smile or a hug. It can restore a relationship, so two people who were estranged do things together again.

In this article, I’ll explore the power of “knowing your why,” an inner tool with big impact. Knowing your why requires self-awareness. It’s an expression of your authentic voice. Your why is how you’re wired.

It’s what you’re passionate about. It inspires you. It’s the root pattern of your actions. When you know your why, you understand yourself and it makes it easier for others to “get you.” They feel your authenticity. It helps establish and nurture relationships and facilitates building “know, like and trust.”

Simon Sinek, author of “Start With Why,” made this tool popular. During a time in his life when he had a good job, interesting clients and a life that looked really good from the outside, he found himself in a very dark place. It was hard to get up in the morning. He’d lost his mojo. Rather than stay stuck, he asked questions. His research showed that people and organizations that were successful over the long term did many things similar to others. They just did it in reverse order. They started with why.

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They found deeper meaning and stayed connected to their passion over the long haul. Inspired by their why, they inspired those around them. It was easier to form relationships and get stuff done. Simon applied what he learned in his life and rediscovered his mojo—but it was better. His friends wanted to know what he was doing, so he helped them discover their why. They got excited and told others. Soon, Simon’s calendar was filled with invitations to help people discover their why. He was onto something.

Knowing your why is a tool that brings clarity. You understand the people in your life and they understand you. You communicate better.

As a business owner, knowing your why helps you make better hiring decisions. It’s easier to build the culture in your business. You can express your brand so the world “sees” you and your business. This inner tool has many practical, outer applications that facilitate both happiness and profitability.

Angie is a photographer with a 2018 vision to significantly grow her business. She wanted a powerful and succinct message to attract new clients. I guided her through my “Message to Market” coaching process.

First, we discovered her why. Her eyes sparkled with recognition the moment we named it. We developed a draft of her “why-how-what” message, a statement she’ll use in countless ways to attract clients who are a perfect fit for the experience and images she delivers. We developed her tagline. “When trust is present, magic happens.” Over the next 30 days, she used her message in conversations and refined it based on

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feedback. Once she felt her message was truly authentic, she hired a videographer to capture her “why-how-what” message.

Whether you use the “know your why” tool for marketing, hiring, team building or to better understand your family, this tool takes what’s on the inside so you can have a profound impact on your world on the outside.

“I believe that you can go BIG without burnout and that when you dare to go to the edge of the life you’ve known and step beyond it’s borders, what you discover is a way of being that delivers results beyond your wildest dreams.”

Click or call for your complimentary discovery session today! deboraholive.com/LetsConnect/ContactMe/

Deborah Olive Business-Life Coach Call 253.209.2528

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LIFE & COMMUNITY

Don’t miss this event!

Cocktails

and Fishtales

I

t’s fun to learn new things, and what better way than with a cocktail in hand. You’ll find fascinating information about our local wildlife, a friendly atmosphere and great drinks at the monthly Cocktails and Fishtales get-together put on by Harbor WildWatch. The monthly event is open to everyone 21 and older and is free for Harbor WildWatch Steward Club members, with a suggested $5 donation for non-members.

Steward Club members enjoy benefits that include admittance to unique events, access to volunteer training programs, a quarterly newsletter and opportunities to connect with fellow stewards.

During these monthly events, guests will have the opportunity to learn about a variety of exciting topics pertaining to the ecology and stewardship of the Puget Sound. They will also enjoy a fun and social atmosphere in which they will meet other ecoenthusiasts.

BY COLIN ANDERSON PHOTO COURTESY OF HARBOR WILDWATCH

“In February, we will welcome Robin Peterson, a local artist who will be discussing the role of artists in National Park stewardship,” said Kseniya Efremova of Harbor WildWatch. “For our March presentation, Drew Collins will take us on an underwater journey as he discusses underwater photography of the Puget Sound.” The February and March presentations will be taking place at the Harbor History Museum.

There will be drinks available for purchase at the museum, and attendees are more than welcome to bring snacks or a takeout meal to the presentation.

Cocktails and Fishtales occurs February through November and takes place on the third Wednesday of the month; mark your calendar for February 21 and March 21 and don’t miss out on the fun. Doors open at 5:30pm for mingling with other attendees, with the presentation beginning at 6pm and concluding at 7pm. For more information and up-to-date event and location schedule, visit HarborWildWatch.org.

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During these monthly events, guests will have the opportunity to learn about a variety of exciting topics pertaining to the ecology and stewardship of the Puget Sound.

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

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de Recat Photography

BY JILLIAN CHANDLER

STUDIO OFFERS UNMATCHED SERVICES AND PRODUCTS

L

isa and Emile de Recat are professional photographers specializing in Vanity Fair-style portraits. They work together as a creative team. With more than 20 years of experience in both the film and fashion industries, they bring a certain level of style, elegance and richness to your photos. They’ve been shooting professionally for 20-plus years and just recently opened up their Gig Harbor studio last summer. I had the opportunity to spend the day with them and had an amazing experience. They have this gorgeous, spacious studio on the second floor of the Canterwood Business Center with a beautiful view of the Olympics. It reminded me of a New York loft with polished cement floors and modern furniture, and beautiful artwork and photos adorning the walls.

The big day arrived and I was ready for my shoot. I was greeted with open arms by Lisa ane Emile. Tracie Campbell, their hair and makeup artist, was there to prepare me for my photo session. Tracie is a talented local hair and makeup artist who has been voted Best of Western Washington for the last four years.

Needless to say, I knew I was in good hands with Tracie, and the results were amazing. She was also wonderful at putting me at ease.

I never realized how much goes into a photo shoot. With no modeling experience, Lisa

made me feel comfortable and beautiful in front of the camera. It was so nice to be directed by a professional who knows how to move you in the most subtle ways to get the best photographs. We also were able to squeeze in some professional shots that were so powerful that I cannot wait to use them for my social branding. After four hours, five wardrobe changes with five different backdrops, we finished our day with a glass of wine and a toast to a successful and fun day.

Two weeks later, my husband and I came back to view the images from the photoshoot.

Not only did they have a beautiful slideshow running on their huge TV, but they had about 35 retouched, printed and matted 8x10 photos on a viewing wall to see. I was amazed and pleased with the results. Lisa and Emile sat us down on the couch in front of a beautiful viewing wall with a glass of wine. I just loved my photos and had a hard time choosing my favorites. At no time did Lisa or Emile make either of us feel pressured into a sale while viewing our images. There was no obligation to buy anything unless we wanted to. All I can say is their work is so beautiful that you will want to buy them all.

What I soon realized was these photographs were not only for me and my husband, but priceless heirlooms for my kids and family to

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have and to pass down. It is so nice to have something special to be remembered by.

When asked what they love most about being photographers, Lisa said it was “the look on the client’s face when they see their photographs for the first time and realize just how beautiful they truly are. It’s very rewarding.”

Lisa and Emile, de Recat Photography, specialize in portrait, family, editorial, commercial and product photography. Do yourself a favor and give them a call and stop by for a coffee or glass of wine and a tour of their studio.

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GOOD NEWS

ALTRUSANS VIRGINIA HARDY AND JAN RINKER SET UP AND PRICE DONATED BOWLS.

Expanding the impact on local childhood hunger in 2018 through community partnerships

BY NANCY HOHENSTEIN

PHOTO BY FRANK OWEN SHAW

ALTRUSA SECRETARY ROSE JAEGER ASSISTS AN EVENT ATTENDEE WITH HER BOWL PURCHASE.

Altrusa’s Empty Bowls

A

udry (not her real name) loves homebaked treats and wants to be a teacher when she grows up. But right now, she’s just 10 years old and home-baked treats are not a part of her life. Her family is homeless.

Their “home” is a van and it parks in various store parking lots overnight around town. Her parents are trained technicians who have fallen on some hard times.

Fortunately, Audry does have the Boys & Girls Club to provide snacks for her after school.

Audry’s family is not as rare in Gig Harbor as we might think. A full 25 percent of the children who attend school in the Peninsula School District qualify for free and reduced-price lunches, according to recent figures. A good percentage of them are homeless.

For Audry, changes started happening last summer when she was identified by her teachers as one of 40 students whom The Boys & Girls Club could help with Summer Boost program. Summer Boost is an effort to improve student achievement and is

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a partnership with the Peninsula School District and the Boys & Girls Club supported by donations.

The food for the Boost students, as well as for 85 percent of the other 900 summer camp attendees whose families are qualified for free or reducedprice lunches during the school year, is funded by Altrusa of Gig Harbor’s annual Empty Bowls event.

Branch director for the local Boys & Girls Club, Bernard Rhoades, says that last summer proved the need for Boost and for the food support that Altrusa and Empty Bowls provides. “Food’s one of our basic, core needs. Learning doesn’t happen on an empty stomach,” says Rhoades.

Altrusa has learned a lot over the 37 years it has served children and families in Gig Harbor, and one of the biggest lessons has been the value of the partnerships it has built with businesses, media and organizations in the community. “It takes a village” is not just a hackneyed old saw. It is the truth for these children—and for Altrusa.

Altrusa’s focus on providing a summer lunch program to children like Audry began after

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POTTERY ARTIST WANDA GARRITY CREATES BOWLS TO DONATE TO THE EMPTY BOWLS EFFORT.

research proved that 25 percent of local kids were at risk over the summer. This year’s Empty Bowls event brings so many segments of the community together to make it all work that it’s almost impossible to name them all.

... last summer proved the need for Boost and for the food support that Altrusa and Empty Bowls provides.

“Food’s one of our basic, core needs. Learning doesn’t happen on an empty stomach,” says Rhoades.

How Empty Bowls Works Start with the bowls. Local potter Barb Bourscheidt leads a group of pottery and glass artists who live in the area and have been working for a full year (since last year’s event) to create the hand-made bowls that will be sold on February 17. Barb estimates that at least nine of her potters are contributing bowls for the event, and teachers from the Peninsula School District’s high school art classes and their students are also working on bowls to donate.

Once the bowls are purchased at the event, Empty Bowls attendees move on to choose their favorite soup from 14 different local restaurants. Big and small, local restaurants and bakeries jumped on board to help make the event a success.

Sponsors are important too. Peninsula Light adds $1,000 to the pot each year, along with funding from Umpqua Bank and other local nonprofits including two Rotary Clubs and Kiwanis. Individuals sponsor tables provided for the attendees to sit down and have their lunch.

What Empty Bowls Does Thanks to the contributions of so many generous members of the community, Altrusa was able to

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expand beyond the Boys & Girls Club’s summer lunch program and reach out to provide funding for food at The Red Barn Youth Center on the Key Peninsula as well as the expansion of Food Backpacks for Kids new summer lunch effort.

The Red Barn mainly serves junior high age students who live on the Key Peninsula while Food Backpacks for Kids works throughout Peninsula School District.

Sharon Baker, Altrusa president for the 20172018 year, is thrilled that the efforts of the club and its foundation have been able to grow over its three-year experience of organizing Empty Bowls but acknowledges that there is still a long way to go.

“Altrusa had a vision of bringing together a broad base of organizations that would serve every child in our community who was at risk of going hungry during the summer when there is no school lunch program. We have succeeded in many respects when you look at all of the individuals and organizations who support Empty Bowls, but we intend to think even bigger and create a permanent plan to sustain these kids.

In our beautiful community, no child should go hungry. Ever. And it really does ‘take a village’ to accomplish that.”

Empty Bowls will take place on Saturday, February 17, 11am to 2pm, at the Boys & Girls Club, 8502 Skansie Avenue. Bowls start at $10.

For more information, visit AltrusaGigHarbor. org/empty-bowls or call 253.853.3149.

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‘T

he Turtle Man’ is a nickname that likely few people have, but it’s one that Gig Harbor resident Roger L Johnson is proud to have bestowed upon him. It’s not because he is all knowing about the species, has a long neck and wears a shell, or is obsessed with the 1980s cartoon, but rather for the turtles you might have seen all over town or in your friends’ homes.

Roger spends his day creating gifts for people he knows, and many whom he doesn’t. Those gifts

are hand-painted turtles he designs out of rocks he finds along the beaches in and around Gig Harbor.

“About five years ago, I found some pancakeshaped beach stones and painted them to look like ladybugs,” recalled Roger. “As I handed them out to various women friends and relatives, the reception was so great that I decided that I should come up with a more complex animal that everybody loved. It was Elizabeth—my wife and soulmate of 53 years—who suggested

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a turtle.”

Over the last few years Roger has upped the design and creativity from the first few he created, and now his turtles feature colorful and elaborate shells, as well as feet and toes. The “Herd of Turtles” are now a Gig Harbor icon as Roger has gifted them to cancer survivors, local businesses and those he observes doing a kindness or good deed for another person.

Besides the US Bank, his turtles are displayed at the reception desk at Saint Anthony’s Hospital,

GIG HARBOR IN FOCUS THE TURTLE MAN ANOTHER REASON SO MANY ARE PROUD TO CALL GIG HARBOR HOME

BY COLIN ANDERSON

the Napa Auto Parts store near the Gig Harbor Post Office, at the Anti-Coagulation Lab in the medical building on Point Fosdick, the library, Graff ’s Automotive on Point Fosdick and the Pacific Northwest Eye Association. You will also find them at the Milgard Breast Center in Tacoma, at the Multi-Care Breast Care center across from the Gig Harbor Library, and many other locations. The rest of the more than 200 gifted turtles live in private homes between Tacoma and Port Angeles, and several as far away as Denmark and the Philippines.

Getting the turtles into the hands of those who help out their community with acts of kindness, volunteerism and those battling for their life is especially rewarding for Roger. “When I hand out one of my special pink turtles to a cancer patient, the reaction is always hugs and tears.

My favorite memory is of a young woman at our bank who had undergone a double mastectomy and was facing over a month of radiation,” said Roger. “The turtle kept her company through the ordeal. Yes—thank God—she survived.”

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The turtles are keeping Roger busy in retirement as well as his other passion—writing. A Vietnam veteran who served as a Naval Aviator aboard the aircraft carriers USS Ticonderoga, USS Enterprise and USS Midway, Roger contributed several articles in Approach, the Navy’s flight safety magazine. Once finished with his active military service, Roger became a firefighter, eventually retiring as captain from Cal Fire at Klamath. He has called Gig Harbor home since 2003.

Since his retirement, Roger has authored eight books and is in the process of working on several more, all the while devoting additional time to creating and spreading his turtles around town. Each turtle begins as beach rock— selected carefully for just the right size and shape. Then, with clear epoxy, the four legs, 16 toes, neck and head are attached. The next step is to fill in the gaps with exterior-grade spackle from the local Ace Hardware store, and then once everything is perfect, the turtle is finished with waterproof Rustoleum paint so that it can withstand the elements. Each turtle takes approximately five hours to make, and Roger has donated more than 200 of them in the last three years alone.

While most of the turtles are painted in the typical turtle colors, Roger will get creative for special occasions. Last spring, Roger sent President Trump and First Lady Melania each a turtle for his birthday. The president’s turtle is painted red, white, blue and gold, while Melania’s turtle is the same as those found around Gig Harbor. Roger received a personal “Thank You” note from the president and first lady. Besides the standard turtles that are down on all fours, Roger has made a half dozen special turtles for people who have given him the gift of friendship. These special turtles sit upright and hold computers, mechanic tools, doctor implements and other specialized objects unique to the recipient’s profession.

When people around town come across the turtles in businesses, homes, care facilities and offices, they often ask where they might find and purchase one. Why doesn’t Roger sell his turtles? Roger’s answer is always the same.

“The reason I will never sell my turtles is because it would turn an act

GigHarborLivingLocal.com

of kindness into a business, and I never want that. When I see a person being polite or helpful to someone else in need, or I see a person in stress, I hand them a Gift Turtle. My reward—not that I need one—is seeing the happiness on their face.”

Roger’s acknowledgement of those doing polite, kind, considerate and helpful things is something not often seen by today’s standards. “How many of us have expressed anger and become enemies over ever-changing political issues, participated in online bullying and used name-calling and rudeness in a selfdestructive attempt to elevate ourselves above others?” asked Roger.

“I have chosen the Gift Turtles as my way to combat this anger and resentment in my community.”

Roger Johnson has redefined kindness as the quality of being friendly, generous, considerate and giving away works of art to put a smile on people’s faces. He would like to leave you with this message: “We don’t all have to devote hundreds of hours to be kind. Simple gestures like holding a door open for someone, allowing a mother with small kids to go ahead of you in line or bringing your office mates coffee and donuts in the morning can start a chain-reaction of kindness and caring. Your actions in public, kind or otherwise, will be noted by others, and you don’t always know who is watching. Try doing a few more good deeds, and you just might find yourself with a new turtle to keep you company.”

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ATHLETES OF BELLE FRAZIER & ZACHARY BATANIAN

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BY PATTY HUTCHENS

BELLE FRAZIER: Peninsula High School PENINSULA HIGH SCHOOL junior Belle Frazier is in her third year on varsity basketball and has played on an AAU team, NW Magic, since the fourth grade. She enjoys how fast paced and competitive the sport is and loves being part of a team. “They are a second family,” said Belle. “When you step on the court, you go to war together and you know they have your back.”

the best way of solving it. It just seems like it would not get boring,” said Belle of her desired profession. “My orthodontist, Dr. Quinn, let me do a shadow day at his office.”

Belle said there are many life lessons that can be learned from playing sports and being part of a team. “One lesson I have learned is that hard work pays off. If you’re willing to put in the time and effort, you can go far in both sports and life. …I also think learning to be coachable and be part of a team will help me in life if I work for or with other people.”

Belle, who has a 4.0 GPA, has also played soccer, softball and participated in track and field events. “I’m grateful for my God-given abilities and the people in in my life who help me succeed,” she said.

Although she has yet to decide on where she will attend college, Belle said she definitely would like to continue her basketball career at the collegiate level where she plans to pursue a career in orthodontics.

“It is almost like you are given a new problem with each person and asked to figure out

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ZACHARY BATANIAN: Gig Harbor High School IT’S NOT ALWAYS EASY to balance academics and athletics, especially when one is a multi-sport athlete. But for Gig Harbor High School senior Zachary Batanian, he seems to do it well. He has been on the GHHS football team for four years, three of which were varsity, and has been a varsity wrestler for all four years, qualifying for regionals the past two years and serving two years as captain.

“This year I received the Tide Pride Award for the senior class,” said Zachary, who also maintains a 3.529 cumulative GPA. Zachary said he enjoys the simple physical nature of wrestling and the challenges it presents. “There is no one else to depend on out there.”

As an Eagle Scout, Zachary gained an interest in blacksmithing and welding, something he plans to pursue a degree in when he attends Peninsula Community College.

“I enjoy knife making and creative welding and would like to make that part of my career.

I have also considered pursuing a career in underwater welding,” he said.

There are many things that Zachary has learned through wrestling, but he said one thing that stands out is to never make excuses.

“Wrestling teaches discipline like no other sport. In the one-on-one competition of a match, it is all you out there. …You either performed or you didn’t. Wrestling has taught me lessons that I will carry with me into whatever I do.”

The most difficult challenge in all his sports has been to learn to push himself beyond what he thinks his body can do. “Wrestling has tested my limits physically and mentally,” said Zachary.

7700 Pioneer Way #202 Gig Harbor, WA 98335 www.cougarwear.com 253.224.1408 Open 7 Days a Week

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LIVING LOCAL

THREE UNIQUE WASHINGTON WINERIES LOCATED A SHORT DISTANCE FROM GIG HARBOR

BY MARGUERITE CLEVELAND

Y

ou won’t need to drive to Woodinville or Eastern Washington with wineries like these located right on the Kitsap Peninsula. Olalla Vineyard & Winery, Mosquito Fleet Winery and Perennial Vintners are all located a short distance from Gig Harbor and each provides a very different experience from the others.

It will come as a surprise to many to know you can grow grapes on the Kitsap Peninsula with select varietals and both Olalla and Perennial are estate wineries growing grapes in the Puget Sound AVA. When you arrive at the Olalla Vineyard & Winery and walk through the arched doorway to the tasting room, it is if you walked into another country. Owner Mary Ellen Houston has crafted a tasting room that evokes the charms of Tuscany. “People

PHOTO COURTESY OF JENNIFER BOWEN

feel like they are in another country. We are set in a beautiful, rural venue that is just a short 15-minute drive from Gig Harbor,” she said.

In addition to the wonderful wines offered for sale, the winery is known for its events.

The wine dinners are so successful they sell out in hours. For 2018, Houston has doubled the number. On Friday evenings, the winery offers live music from local musicians. “We are the place the locals go to hang out and relax,” Houston says. With its proximity to Gig Harbor, their venue is also a great location for offsite meetings and board retreats during the week.

While she manages the business side of the house, her husband, Stuart Chisholm,

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is the master of the vineyards. Hailing from Edinburgh, Scotland, the kiltwearing Chisholm is most often seen in the vineyards. The two are very proud of a Red Table Wine they call Golubok, which is named after the Ukrainian grape with a cabernet sauvignon parentage. It is very unusual as the grapes have a deep red juice; most red wines receive their color from the grape peels. Only two wineries in Washington state offer this unnamed varietal. It is so popular that it is currently sold out. When offered again, Houston expects it to sell out in a few days.

13176 Olalla Valley Road SE Olalla, Washington 98359 253.851.4949 / OlallaWines.com

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LIVING LOCAL

Pour yourself a glass

PHOTO COURTESY OF DAVID MILLER

PHOTO COURTESY OF DAVID MILLER

Mosquito Fleet Winery is located near a busy crossroads in Belfair.

Don’t let its humble exterior fool you; this is some seriously good wine. Founded by two couples, the Petersens and the Griffins, who met in a birthing class, they took their shared passion and love for wine and began making wine in 2009. They released their first two wines, a cabernet sauvignon and a meritage, in 2012.

This year the Mosquito Fleet Winery 2013 Reserve 34 cabernet sauvignon made Andy Perdue’s, Seattle Times, list of top 50 wines from 2017 and came in at No. 3. This is a huge accomplishment for a small family owned winery. Winemaker Brian Petersen says, “We have a respect for history and a passion for excellence.”

Petersen incorporates a variety of Old-World methods such as Sur Lie Aging, which incorporates leaves from the vines into the first year of aging, and Bâtonnage, which is a stirring of the wine during the aging process.

The four are lifelong residents of Gig Harbor and their love of

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the history of the area as well as the boating culture inspired the name of the winery. The Mosquito Fleet was the main source of transportation in the area before roads were built. Each wine has a distinct label with a steamship on the front. On the back is a QR code which you can snap with your cell phone and learn the history of the ship on the label.

21 NE Old Belfair Highway Belfair, Washington 98528 360.275.9100 / MosquitoFleet.net A visit to Perennial Vintners is unlike most wine-tasting trips, and it is not a fancy Napa Valley experience. When you open the door to the tasting room in Mike Lempriere’s basement, you are entering a working micro-winery with everything in one place.

The discard bucket is the drain in the floor, and to say it is rough is an understatement. That being said, the place is charming. How

48

tasting room vineyard tours wedding venue Corporate events Live Music Fridays www.olallawines.com

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Winner

often do you experience a tasting where the owner and winemaker pours for you and discusses the intricacies of the particular vintage?

Lempriere is a master of the Puget Sound AVA varietals, and he is the only producer in Washington of Melon de Bourgogne, a delicate, fruity, light white wine that Lempriere refers to as “God’s gift to seafood.”

In addition to his own acreage, he leases farmland from the original Suyematsu family farm. The Japanese Internment during World War II began at Bainbridge Island and the Suyematsu family was one of the first to be rounded up. Lempriere is very knowledgeable about this history and shares with those who are interested. He also starts all the visits to his property with a walk through his vineyard so his guests can get a feel of what goes into producing his wine—truly a special experience.

8840 NE Lovgreen Road Bainbridge Island, Washington 98110 206.200.5902 / PerennialVintners.com The Kitsap Peninsula wineries are producing many high-quality wines making a tasting trip a lot closer to home than you thought. Most of these wineries are only open on the weekend, so another option to purchase is at Crimson Cove, a small shop in Poulsbo specializing in

How often do you experience a tasting where the owner and winemaker pours for you and discusses the intricacies of the particular vintage? local food products and a large selection of regional wines.

“I like to carry Kitsap Peninsula wines because they are local, high quality and some you can only get in this area,” says Anne Keller, owner.

Crimson Cove is located at 18928 Front Street NE Suite 100, Poulsbo, Washington. Open daily 10am to 6pm. Find out more by calling 360.697.1767 or visiting CrimsonCove.com.

What are you waiting for? Plan a trip to one of these local wineries today.

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How Often Should I Change The Oil In My Car? There have been drastic improvements in the quality of motor oil in the last 20 years. The new refining processes have removed more than 90 to 95 percent of all contaminants (Pennzoil even calls their synthetic “Pure Base”). So do you really need to change your oil every 3,000 miles? It all depends on what your average week of driving looks like. When an engine is started cold, the fuel injection delivers extra fuel to keep the engine from stalling. That extra oil runs down past the piston rings into the engine oil. If you don’t drive far enough to heat the oil to the point that the fuel evaporates, it just sits there and breaks down the protective qualities of the oil. A continuous engine operation of 20 minutes or more will burn the extra fuel out of the oil.

What about synthetic oil? It is even more refined and can last 6,000 to 10,000 miles in optimum driving scenarios. Synthetic oils last twice as long as the conventional oils, don’t cost twice as much and protect your engine four to five times better. Nearly all vehicles produced in the last 10 years require synthetic oil.

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Mosquito Fleet Winery Your Local Award Winning Boutique Winery

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HARBOR VIEW

Dentistry

CREATING HEALTHY SMILES FOR THREE GENERATIONS

BY JILLIAN CHANDLER GigHarborLivingLocal.com

52

F

or more than five decades, Harbor View Dentistry has been in the business of caring for people’s smiles in Gig Harbor. First opening its doors to the community in the 1960s by Dr. Rick Waller, then Dr. Tom Mitchell, and is now in the hands of Dr. James. L. Aichlmayr, who has been practicing family dentistry himself for more than 28 years.

Those seeking a small, personal office and a warm, welcoming staff need look no further. The team provides the highest quality services in a caring environment.

They guarantee that you get honest work at affordable and fair prices.

“We truly care about our patients here,” says Dr. Aichlmayr. “Our mission statement is very simple: Treat everyone like family.’ Going to the dentist can be intimidating and scary for a lot of people.

Our gentle team of professionals helps alleviate fears, and the quality can’t be higher. All our patients feel comfortable and at home here.”

Dr. Aichlmayr speaks from the heart when he says, “Dentistry itself is very gratifying. Patients come in nervous or in pain and leave feeling confident and better about themselves. Providing that feeling to my patients is the most rewarding part of my job. We really do treat everyone like family. We love our patients here.

Raised in the Pacific Northwest, Dr. Aichlmayr is grateful to have his practice here and says it’s “a dream come true!” He adds: “Gig Harbor is a truly wonderful and beautiful place to live.”

The Harbor View Dentistry team stays active in the community sponsoring local high school sporting events, the Gig Harbor Waterfront Alliance Wine and Food Festival, Trunk or Treat put on

by Macaroni Kids and is always looking for more ways to be involved in the community and show their support. In addition, Dr. Aichlmayr loves gardening and is a member of the Wilkinson Community Garden, which each year provides more than 1,800 pounds of free organic produce to people in need.

Dr. Aichlmayr is a member of the Pierce County Dental Society, American Dental Association, Washington State Dental Association, Spear Study Club and International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology, Olalla Community Center and major sponsor of this year’s Olalla Americana Music Festival. He is also a member of the Pacific Northwest Ballet and is a talented artist in the mediums of watercolor and sculpture.

“We really do enjoy what we do here at Harbor View Dentistry,” says Dr. Aichlmayr. “We have a great team and amazing patients. If you want someone who truly cares then I think we can help you.”

Your mouth is so very important in so many ways. Improve your smile.

Call the office today to schedule an appointment and let Harbor View Dentistry help.

Harbor View Dentistry 3220 Uddenberg Lane, Suite 6 Gig Harbor, Washington 98335 253.858.2560 HarborViewDentistry.com

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“Our mission statement is very simple: Treat everyone like family.”

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EXPERTS NARROWS ELECTRIC

Are you looking for an electrician with years of experience and training? Narrows Electric, with more than 26 years of experience, offers the best in residential and commercial wiring, electrical repair and other electrical services to Gig Harbor and the surrounding areas.

Whatever your electrical need, call Narrows Electric today!

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With four service centers, they provide a range of high-quality professional services.

Tunnel car wash with hand prep and dry, oil change and other maintenance services, detail center, interior and exterior detailing and doit-yourself service, 24 HOURS – six wash bays and vacuum facility. Get a free wash with every oil change!

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Professional photographers specializing in Vanity Fair style portraits. With over twenty years of experience in both the film and fashion industries, Lisa and Emile bring a certain level of style, elegance and richness to your photos.

Let them capture the effervescent spirit, that is you and the ones you love.

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CUSTOM PRINTS NW

AMBROSE LOBATO DESIGN/BUILD

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

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

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

Gig Harbor 253.303.1993 Office | 206.251.3983 Cell AmbroseLobatoDesign.com

CRUISE PLANNERS TRAVEL SERVICES

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

Remember ... you have a friend in the collision business!

FIX AUTO GIG HARBOR Gig Harbor—2905 Jahn Ave. NW #8 253-858-3522 • WWW.FIXAUTOGIGHARBOR.COM P: 253.858.3522 TF: 866.328.3861 FixAutoGigHarbor.com

Save time and let them do the booking for you.

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

Gig Harbor | Esperanza and Tony DeMarco 253.649.4292 | f TeamDeMarco esperanza.demarco@cruiseplanners.com BellaLunaTravels.com

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HARBOR VIEW DENTISTRY

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

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

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

Gig Harbor—3220 Uddenberg Lane, Suite 6 253-858-2560 | HarborViewDentistry.com f Harbor View Dentistry

VALONA PAINTING COMPANY

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

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

Phone 253.874.4377 carpetcarenw@comcast.net CarpetCareNW.com

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

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

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

55

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Rug Braiding

By Donna Mc Keever LOCAL BUSINESS SHARES HER SKILL

BY COLIN ANDERSON

RUG BRAIDING

BY DONNA MC KEEVER 253.853.4583 RugBraiders.com donna@rugbraiders.com

A

piece of artwork is typically displayed on a wall, table or, if it’s from your second grader, the kitchen fridge. One local artisan has for years been creating and teaching others to make beautiful works of art not for hanging but for adorning the floors in your home.

For more than 25 years, Gig Harbor resident Donna McKeever has been keeping alive the almost lost art of rug braiding. What started as a small business has blossomed into a passion for sharing her skills with others so that the tradition of creating beautiful hand-braided rugs can continue on. “I am the only business that teaches the art of rug braiding in the area and the only one that sells all the supplies,” said Donna. “Finding supplies is very difficult; you simply cannot walk into your local craft store and find supplies for braiding.”

Over the years Donna has built a network for finding the most unique and colorful wool to go into each piece. While she enjoys putting together pieces herself, sharing her rare knowledge of this type of craftsmanship has truly become her passion. Donna welcomes those new to rug braiding or those with some skill into her home to teach them the finer points of the trade. Private classes are offered as well as group classes.

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Group class sizes are limited to ensure that each student receives plenty of personal attention. Classes are offered over a four-week period, meeting once a week for two-hour sessions. At the end, students will have their own 2-foot-by-3-foot oval rug which they have created as well as a new passion for a unique skill.

“I often refer to the rugs as functional works of art. The classes often become a social event as well, a time to get together with new friends who share a common interest,” said Donna.

She is well known throughout the national rug-braiding community as she has traveled across the country and Canada to speak and put on demonstrations. She’s been featured in local and regional publications and carries, in all likelihood, the largest selection of wool and materials for rug braiding in the entire Northwest. Donna is also once again putting on the annual National Rug Braiders Conference this coming September, the eighth such time she has hosted the event.

“Our theme at the conference is to Unite, Educate and Bond. We gather at the Inn at Gig Harbor for three full days learning new braiding skills, sharing ideas and bonding with other like-minded braiders. We share our

GigHarborLivingLocal.com

meals together and have fun with door prizes and gift bags. The conference also includes an in-house store that offers a wide variety of wools and braiding supplies for sale,” said Donna.

Registration is currently open, and though the event isn’t until September, you must register by April 15 to guarantee your spot. Registration can be done through Donna’s website at RugBraiders.com or by calling her at 253.853.4583.

Whether you’re just hearing about rug braiding or you’re looking to hone your skills, Donna is ready to share her passion and help inspire your next creation. “Rug braiding can be therapy for the soul, a way to slow down in this fast-paced world, get back to simpler times and to relax and do something for yourself that you enjoy,” she said.

Rug braiding is a skill that few have and when you are able to look down at your creation on the floor in your home it will offer you a lifetime of satisfaction and achievement.

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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

Creating Good Habits

By Kenny Markwardt, Personal Trainer

W

e’re creatures of habit. Each day might not be the exact same, but we tend to behave similarly from day to day, regardless of what happens externally. We have many habits that we’ve been doing for so long that it is just something we do subconsciously. In fact, when we change these behaviors, we just feel off.

very short period of time, and then we drift back to “normal,” especially when things get tough or stressful.

It’s important to recognize the triggers for these negative habits. They are generally brought on at a certain time of day or surrounding a certain activity. So, instead of completely abstaining from the habit itself as the solution, it is incredibly helpful to replace that habit with something instead. Ideally this is something that aligns closer to your path.

Some of these routines are great. Brushing your teeth every day before bed is one of those that I fully support you continuing. Some of these are less great and are actually preventing us from being the people we strive to be. Some major ones that I hear from clients are too much alcohol, too much sugar and too much screen time. People like to improve themselves by abstaining completely from these bad habits. This usually works for a

Here are a few examples: Alcohol. Often utilized as a stress reliever in the evening, alcohol represents a conclusion to the day and a signal that you don’t have to be

H E A LT H Y T I P

Walk Briskly

Going for a 15- to 20-minute walk decreases your risk of diabetes, heart attack, stroke and early death. It also gets you outside and into nature. #optoutside whenever you get the chance!

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Gig Harbor Chiropractic & Massage

All the Cacao!

Cacao beans (not cocoa) have some amazing side benefits besides just being tasty. They’re a great source of magnesium, help lower blood pressure, improve circulation, boost energy, contribute to a healthy heart, lift your mood and improve digestion. What’s not to love? “on” anymore. While this is OK, and there are studies that say very moderate alcohol has some benefit, it might not be the most productive way to address your goals—especially as moderate drifts closer to heavy. Instead, replace that habit with something else. Find another way to signal that you earned the right to relax after a long day. I’ll probably be ostracized for comparing the two, but instead of having a drink, a lot of nights we’ll have a glass of decaf tea or coffee instead. No, they aren’t the same, but they can provide an excellent filler for the lessproductive past time. If you give it a chance, and really embrace the flavors and the ritual itself, you might find that you don’t miss that drink too much.

www.GigHarborWellness.com to alcohol in the evening, dessert seems to signal a conclusion to the day and that you’ve earned something to indulge in. I don’t want to take that freedom away from you, but, there are other options. Find something else that you’ll look forward to at the end of every day that isn’t ice cream. Personally, I like a bowl of yogurt, protein powder and a little peanut butter.

Again, I know that comparison isn’t fair, but if you give it a chance, you just might love it.

Too much screen time. If I had $1 for everyone I talked to who said they spent too much time on their phone, computer or in front of the TV ... We all know we’d like to get away from doing it, but it’s rare that anyone actually does. Why? Because it’s a relief and mental reprieve. It’s satisfying to our brains to be entertained. Like a dog that needs to play fetch to get that energy out, our brains need something to occupy our time. What better and more satisfying way to do that than to jam it full of colorful images, stories and ideas at an incredibly rapid rate?

So, how can we make that better? Replace your phone with a book, magazine or something in print form. Plug it in and turn it on “Do Not Disturb” when you get home. Leave it outside your bedroom at night. It won’t completely get rid of your usage, but it will dramatically minimize it, and you’ll feel better about using it when you do.

So this year, as you seek improvement, acknowledge that your habits make up who you are. Exploring and refining those habits is the key to success. Good luck!

Dessert before bed. This is a common one that usually starts in our childhood. If you eat all of your dinner you can have your dessert. Similar

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Dr. Greg Messer Dr. Keri Messer

253.857.6500

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

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

HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

CHRONIC HEAD, FACE, JAW & NECK PAIN Is your bite part of the problem?

BY RHONDA SAVAGE, DDS, UPTOWN DENTAL GIG HARBOR

T

he last straw for Susan was after she was forced to stay in bed all day with an ice pack on her head, unable to go to work or play with her daughter. She took over-thecounter medications and a prescription medication when the pain got really bad. She’d tried everything: massage, chiropractic treatment and physical therapy. These treatments were somewhat effective, but the headaches continued. Dealing with the headaches was a constant struggle; she was starting to get depressed.

According to the National Headache Foundation, more than 45 million Americans endure recurring headaches; from this group, 23 million suffer from migraines. Research suggests that up to 80 percent of headaches result from dental force-related problems.

A staggering number of people don’t know why they’re in pain. Many are unaware that dental force-related issues, either related to their mouth or as a result of trauma (like a fall, sports injury or whiplash) can be the root of their pain.

Using a computerized bite analysis, Dr. Rhonda Savage can evaluate your range of motion and bite imbalances. Specialized tools and techniques, such as ultrasound, microcurrent technology, cold-laser therapy and manual muscle massage, reduce pain and inflammation. The treatment promotes healing of the muscles and nerves, and then the bite is balanced after inflammation is reduced.

Drug free, needle-free and painless, the treatment is aimed at the underlying causes of chronic headaches: the pain and discomfort caused by improper muscle forces in the mouth, head and neck area.

Some people who live with constant headaches for years become resigned to the condition. They give up, thinking, “I guess this is how it’s going to be.” With a 92- to 93-percent success rate, Dr. Savage can help cure the pain of migraine and other headaches, tinnitus, TMJ and vertigo.

Many headaches are triggered by stress or are hormone-induced or alcohol-induced. Nighttime headaches can also be triggered by a bite imbalance, as well as lack of oxygen at nighttime. Sleep issues and headaches are often tied together for many patients.

Chris suffered from headaches since a serious car accident.

Broadsided by another vehicle, he had major medical care but still had headaches. After beginning treatment, he was amazed that he was headache free. Chris said, “It’s such a simple, easy, painless process.”

Dull, nagging, constant headaches: Do you wake up with these daily? Headache and migraine pain has to do with the muscles of the head, neck and jaw, and the way that teeth come together.

Forces imbalanced by the way the teeth come together send a biofeedback loop to the brain that causes pain through the brain stem.

Working in conjunction with medical professionals, Dr. Rhonda Savage can make a difference. Sarah said, “I didn’t realize how many headaches I was having until I stopped having headaches!”

Uptown Dental in Gig Harbor is a health-focused dental practice.

Visit their website at UptownDentalGigHarbor.com and call 253.857.0835 today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Savage.

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Affecting Your Daily Life?

The leading cause of headaches is not what you think, and it’s not all in your head.

TruDenta is a drug-free, needle-free, and painfree system to provide long-lasting pain relief.

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The life-changing, therapeutic treatments have been effective in patients suffering from painful symptoms of bite imbalance, chronic headaches, migraines and TMJ/TMD.

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Xrays & Cleaning

CAN YOU HEAR MY MUSIC? HOW LOUD IS TOO LOUD?

BY DEANNA IFF, AU.D., CCC-A , HEAR FOR LIFE AUDIOLOGY HEARING LOSS is a growing problem, and not only older adults are affected. Although hearing loss becomes more common with age, noise exposure is also a leading cause. Studies from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) within the last decade found that about 20 percent of U.S. adolescents and young adults in their 20s show signs of hearing damage. This is an increase of 5 percent from data gathered only 20 years ago. While infections, genetics and medications can also contribute to hearing loss, current research suggests that hearing loss and other hearing disorders like tinnitus and hyperacusis are increasingly related to noise exposure from routine daily activities.

decibels (dB). Extended exposure to levels over 85 dB is considered dangerous, which is the reason the noisiest workplaces require hearing protection; however, recreational noise is not regulated in the same way, so people are frequently being exposed to unsafe levels without knowledge or appropriate use of hearing protection. Concerts, auto racing, sporting events, bars, clubs and many other venues often produce noise that is above safe listening levels. In addition, there is a growing body of evidence indicating that prolonged use of earbuds and/or headphones at loud volumes is a major contributor to the increased hearing loss among the younger generations.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 1.1 billion young people worldwide risk hearing loss from dangerous listening practices, and nearly 50 percent of teens and young adults (12 to 35 years old) listen to unsafe levels of sound on personal audio devices. Because headphone maximum output is not regulated in the U.S., levels can reach up to 110 dB, which is as loud as a jet engine.

So what can you do to prevent NIHL?

Shifts in hearing or increased perception of tinnitus are frequently temporary, but these can actually be signs of more permanent damage.

Few among us can truthfully say we have never experienced the sensation of numb, ringing ears following a loud concert or football game or exposure to loud machinery or tools. This damage is cumulative, and even a mild hearing loss can drastically change a person’s ability to function effectively without accommodations.

Mild hearing loss in young people can negatively impact speech and language learning, inhibiting the development of social skills and academic progress.

1. Turn down the volume, move away from excessive noise and use earplugs!

NIHL can happen with one traumatic event or gradually with continued exposure over time.

The volume (intensity) of sound is measured on a logarithmic scale and described in units called

5. If you have questions, visit your favorite hearing health-care provider.

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2. When wearing headphones, make sure outside conversation can still be heard— and make sure others can’t hear your music.

3. Implement the 60/60 rule: Limit use of personal listening devices to 60-percent volume and 60 minutes at a time.

4. Consider use of noise-cancelling headphones, as these help reduce volume.

PINS, NEEDLES, PAIN AND BURNING Otherwise known as Peripheral Neuropathy

BY DARCIE MILLER, OWNER, LIGHT IN BALANCE REFLEXOLOGY

P

eripheral neuropathy is found most often in your feet and hands. The symptoms are usually a feeling of tingling, numbness and pain and feeling weak in your extremities. It can also affect other areas of your body and is caused from damage to your peripheral nervous system.

Your peripheral nervous system relays information from your brain and spinal cord (the central nervous system or CNS) to the rest of your body. Peripheral neuropathy commonly affects those with diabetes both type II and I and can also be caused from traumatic injuries, infections and exposure to some toxins. The pain and discomfort can be debilitating.

Each nerve in your peripheral system has a particular function, and symptoms will vary depending on the type of nerves affected. Peripheral neuropathy can affect one, two or multiple nerves.

A Holistic approach to improved health

Nerves are classified as follows: • Sensory nerves – Receive sensations such as touch, pain, temperature or vibrations on the skin.

• Autonomic nerves – Control blood pressure, digestion, bladder and heart.

• Motor nerves – Control motor nerves, which aid in movement.

There are several options for managing your symptoms; lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise to help with nutritional needs as well as improving circulation, and there are some medications, which can help manage symptoms.

Here are a few other tips which may also help: • Wear comfortable socks that do not squeeze and bind your feet or calves (please note: This does not include compression stockings).

• Wear shoes that fit properly.

• Try not to cross your legs or rest your elbows on a table; both of these can cause unwanted pressure to your legs, feet and hands, which can exacerbate your symptoms.

• Massage your feet and hands. Even better is to have someone do that for you!

A licensed and/or certified reflexologist can work reflex points in your feet, hands and ears, helping to send messages that affect the chemical, electrical and nervous systems within your body. These messages aid in restoring balance to your organs.

Reflexology can gently reactivate damaged nerve fibers to send and receive the correct nerve signals. By using a light to moderate touch, a stable rhythm of information is both sent and received by the CNS. Improvement is also seen in the blood and lymph circulation as well as in improvements in nerve responses. Most experience a feeling of relaxation and well-being at the end of a session. Reflexology may benefit those who suffer from peripheral neuropathy, diabetic neuropathy and other forms of neuropathic and phantom limb pain.

If you are experiencing undiagnosed tingling, pain and burning sensations in your feet, legs and hands, please consider seeing your health-care provider for diagnosis.

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An open letter to parents everywhere PARENTS: YOU CAN BE AN HPV HERO

BY DR. BRADLEY KIRSCHNER, PEDIATRICS NORTHWEST, P.S.

P

sst … Did you know you can protect your children against cancer, your future grandchildren against death from a fatal infection and your daughters from having to worry about abnormal Pap smears—all with a simple vaccination?

These illnesses are caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), a group of viruses that 75 percent of us will be exposed to by the time we’re 50 years old (most of us in our early 20s).

We can protect our kids before the virus has a chance to strike by getting them immunized between the ages of 11 and 14.

Transmission of the virus from one person to another requires close physical contact of the kind that occurs in healthy, adult relationships.

Close contact, not just sexual intercourse. And remember, 75 percent of people have been infected by HPV—healthy people participating in healthy relationships.

After getting the shot, your child may complain about redness, swelling and tenderness at the site of the injection. But his or her immune system will now know how to fight off the infection before it can cause problems, and you get to be the hero who protected your child from cancer! How cool is that?

The HPV vaccine has been part of the routinely recommended immunization schedule for over 10 years. Both girls and boys are recommended to receive the vaccine between 11 and 12 years of age.

HPV causes many types of warts and, worse, a number of cancers in the throat, mouth and genitalia. HPV is the only cause of cervical cancer. That means that if we could protect against all types of HPV, no one would ever get cervical cancer again. (Right now, the vaccine protects against the nine different types of HPV that cause 90 percent of all disease.)

HPV causes 39,000 cases of cancer in the U.S. every year, including 11,500 cases of cervical cancer which go on to kill 4,000 women annually.

Babies can get HPV as they pass through the birth canal, some of whom subsequently develop respiratory papillomatosis, an infection of their windpipe which can be fatal. Have you or a friend ever worried about an abnormal Pap smear? That was HPV’s fault, too.

HPV is tricky because it doesn’t typically cause symptoms when it is first caught. It can take anywhere from eight months to two years for a person to fight it off, and the cancers can take up to 20 years to occur. By being so “quiet,” it allows people to pass it on without ever knowing they were infected in the first place.

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Why vaccinate them when they’re so young?

• Because the vaccine works better when they’re younger—so much better that children who start the vaccine before the age of 15 only need two doses rather than the three doses that older teens and adults require.

• Because the vaccine can’t cure the disease, only prevent it.

• Because your child will—eventually—be a healthy adult in a healthy relationship.

• And because, in the worst case scenario, our children don’t always get to choose the “who” or the “when” of their sexual exposures.

So choose to be the hero. Choose to protect your children from cancer.

Dr. Bradley Kirschner is a pediatrician with Pediatrics Northwest, P.S. He lives on Vashon Island with his wife and youngest daughter, with regular visits to and from his other two daughters who attend colleges in the Midwest.

SUMMER BEAUTY

D

Your guide to look and feel your best by su mmer

A personalized skincare regimen can help you achieve skin that you are proud of, but it isn’t a miracle overnight cure. Skin issues like acne, hyperpigmentation (brown spots), large pore size, fine lines/wrinkles and laxity all take time to correct. The good news is that it isn’t too late.

If you start a routine of using quality products you can have a beautiful and glowing complexion before the first heat wave. When choosing a skincare line and products that will most benefit you, it is best to consult with a specialist to ensure you achieve the results you desire.

BY BRI WILLIAMS, RN, BSN, REFINED AESTHETICS MED SPA PLLC

uring the cold, short winter days, it is hard to imagine that warm weather will soon be upon us. In a few short months the busy days of summer will be in full force, and with that comes weddings, class reunions, family trips and social gatherings. Whether you are going to be a blushing bride or a guest at an event, you want to look and feel your very best, and now is the perfect time of year to start a skincare regimen, in office treatments and healthy habits to have you glowing by the first day of summer.

For the ultimate skin-tightening, wrinkle-reducing and pore-shrinking treatment, consider microneedling with platelet-rich plasma. During a microneedling treatment, very small needles create controlled micro-injuries to your skin. This process stimulates your bodies wound healing cascade, and as your body works to heal the microinjuries, new collagen and elastin are created. Results are accelerated when your own platelet rich plasma is used in conjunction with microneedling. This involves drawing a small amount of your own blood and separating the whole blood from the platelet-rich plasma, which is rich in stem cells and growth factors. The PRP is then rubbed on the surface of your face while microneedling. The PRP is able to travel down the small channels that are created with microneedling, reaching the dermis where it works to generate new collagen and elastin. This treatment leaves your skin looking sunburned for approximately one day, and it can take up to three months to see the full benefits, so be sure to schedule several months before your event. It is also important to seek this treatment from a licensed and trained professional.

A healthy lifestyle remains at the root of not only looking but also feeling your best. Now is a great time to develop healthy habits to improve your well-being and appearance. Eating a nutrient-dense diet, staying well hydrated, exercising several times a week and making sure to get a minimum of seven hours of sleep a night (preferably eight) will help you to feel lively and energetic.

A balanced and wholesome lifestyle, combined with quality skincare products and in-office aesthetic treatments, can help to ensure that you radiate selfconfidence from the inside out. When you look your best, you feel your best. Let this summer be your summer to shine.

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FEATURE STORY

Do More With Less

Focusing on what’s important

By Jani Gonzalez

W

e’re bombarded daily with ads trying to convince us that we need their products. Whether using our own money or credit, it’s all too easy to buy products when we’re out or online. And, all the stuff we buy is getting in the way of us physically and psychologically.

Minimalism is a pendulum swing in the complete opposite direction of our culture of consumerism. And it isn’t that new. In the arts, including music and literature, it’s been a form of expression using limited elements. But, it’s a genre probably most known in architecture, and it was architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe who coined the phrase, “Less is more.”

It’s unclear when minimalism as a lifestyle emerged, but it seems more common in recent years. For many, minimalism is a journey to simplify life by owning fewer belongings and also decreasing the stress from too many commitments in our careers and social lives.

The things that make us busy In an age where so much is at our fingertips, work and social life have blended into one. Although not feasible, technology has made it possible for us to work, socialize and be consumers 24/7. To top it off, in our hours away from work, we’re still spending time in front of the television in addition to tablets and smartphones. The New York Daily News reported that as adults, we’re spending five hours a day in front of TV screens.

Similarly, Scientific American reported that we spend nine hours in front of other screens outside of normal working hours.

So, when we say “We’re busy” to why we can’t spend more time with family and friends or learn something new, this is where minimalism helps us refocus on what’s important in life. The overriding goal is to get rid of extraneous things or parts of our lives that weigh us down, take up space and take away our freedom to do the things we’d rather spend our time on or with.

Minimalism means something different for everyone. For some, it’s living with as few possessions as possible. For others, it’s a kind of “life diet” where they ask themselves what’s needed versus what’s wanted.

The things we own It’s ironic that today people are more transient—moving on average 11 times during a lifetime—that we own more possessions, too. We own so much that we’re willing to pay to store it. Since the recession in 2008, the

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self-storage industry has grown to a $37.5 billion industry in 2017. More storage units are being built with a tally of $350 million by September of last year.

Part of the reason for our personal possession surplus is the affordability of goods. Goods are cheap. Disposable incomes are higher nationwide—$14.6 billion in October 2017. Couple that with how easy it is to get a credit card, and we’ve got many more opportunities to spend when we don’t need to—and really can’t afford to. Credit Karma reports that people have five cards on average.

But, consumerism goes beyond new purchases. Some of us fall into bargain mode. We fall into sales traps that make us think we’re saving money because something is marked down. Or, we shop the bargains at yard sales for a steal. The point is, you’re still collecting things and spending money no matter how little.

All of this is to say that as a society, we have a problem with stuff. We live in a culture of excess where more is more. Everything is getting bigger—our cars, our homes, even our waistlines. In 2016, the average American home was 2,422 square feet, according to the Census Bureau.

That’s nearly double from homes built 40 years before. That’s a lot of space for storing things.

For some of us, there comes a point of realization that our possessions own us—that the storage unit isn’t worth it anymore, or the space they occupy in the house is spilling over into our personal space. It’s one thing to have everything out of sight, but at some point, what’s out of mind will be a problem, if not yours.

For Jenni Johnson of Oldtown, Idaho, clearing away the possessions after two family members passed away opened her eyes to how much we save thinking that others will appreciate it. In addition, planning for the sale of her home also made her realize that she needed to pare down possessions.

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FEATURE STORY

“Besides the decluttering angle, I also had other motivations. I was responsible for cleaning out my husband’s grandmother’s house and my mother’s. Besides the tremendous amount of work involved, you gain a perspective on how little interest others have in your stuff,” she said.

Johnson decided to follow her mother’s example, who distributed many of her things while she was still alive, and has gone beyond it to trim things down. She knew that everyone already had what they wanted after that, and it made clearing out her mother’s possessions easier.

“One thing I definitely learned is that I don’t want to leave my kids with a lot of stuff to go through when I’m gone,” Johnson said.

Physically decluttering: getting started If you follow any minimalist sites, most will tell you to take inventory of your physical possessions. Depending on your situation, make a plan. Do you have multiple rooms to go through? Get your family involved in helping, no matter their age. When my parents put their home for sale, they asked us kids to help clean it out and take what we wanted. It was a great way to get together and be productive. I left knowing I had done my part in making their move easier.

As you go through your things, ask yourself how much you use it or enjoy it. If the answer is “not much,” donate it knowing that someone else might. If something is broken, are you going to fix and use it? If not, you know what to do.

When you have a house full of things with memories tied to many of them, you need a plan. The best-selling author, Marie Kondo of “The Life-changing Manga of Tidying Up,” has influenced a large following of people looking for the benefits of decluttering through her KonMari Method. She suggests making categories of your items, such as clothing, kitchen items and mementos. Take time going through your things. Make it part of your day or weekend, spending what time you can sorting through what to keep or not.

Free up your mental space!

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FEATURE STORY

Kondo’s minimalistic perspective applies to everything from folding your clothes to organizing your computer files more efficiently.

The end goal is first to make everything in life easily found, but it also to have a psychological benefit. After you purge, you should be left with things you truly enjoy and are valuable to you.

The act of purging also has a connection with a feeling of control, followed by optimism.

Molly LeClaire of Colville, Washington, is one of many who works at taking control of her possessions. “I naturally have a hard time getting rid of things, which is why my husband and I have always had a full storage unit,” she said. “Minimalism for me means decluttering, de-stressing and holding on to what is meaningful, useful and brings you joy!”

Freeing up mental space: decluttering the mind, body and spirit The practice of paring down possessions applies to all parts of our lives. A good place to start could be with the relationships in your life.

Are you worried about friends growing apart or that the kids are growing up too fast? That’s a sign that you want to spend time with them.

Look at your schedule and see what you can do without. Do the kids need all those after-school activities? Are you over-committed with work that you’re sacrificing your personal life? Make

Minimalism means something different for everyone. For some, it’s living with as few possessions as possible. For others, it’s a kind of “life diet” where they ask themselves what’s needed versus what’s wanted.

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time for the relationships that are important to you. Spend quality time with the people you want. It will improve your relationships with those people and create long-lasting memories.

Apply the same concept to other parts of your life, such as your career or finances. If you’re not happy with how your job is going, what can change it? Are you saying yes to too many projects with little benefit to you? Maybe it’s time to have a talk with your boss about your workload. Or, think about a job change in the future. You could make time to learn a new skill—there are hundreds of free courses and how-to videos online to help. We all have to work, but work should benefit us in more ways than a paycheck.

This brings us to finances. Most of us owe somebody something, but life’s expenses don’t have to cause the amount of stress they tend to do. Some bills are givens: utilities, mortgage or rent, insurance, food and gas. Americans, however, have had a history of credit debt.

Concrete numbers vary, but the average debt hovers between $5,700 and $8,400. Tackling credit debt requires a commitment to pay beyond the minimum requirement so that the balances are paid off sooner. One method involves making larger payments on the debt with the highest interest rate. When that debt is paid, you apply the same amount to the

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We live in a culture of excess where more is more. Everything is getting bigger—our cars, our homes, even our waistlines.

In 2016, the average American home was 2,422 square feet, according to the Census Bureau.

That’s nearly double from homes built 40 years before. That’s a lot of space for storing things. next payment in addition to the one you were already making. Or, try to consolidate payments with a personal loan to save on interest.

When purchasing food, buying healthy is often more inexpensive than with prepared foods. Shop the perimeter of a supermarket and you’ll avoid packaged foods which cost more. Make more home-cooked meals, and, if possible, consider making your own condiments, too.

Becoming debt-free will take time but is possible. Every time you are about to buy something, always ask yourself if you need it or want it. This goes for those of us with children as well.

Go forth and reduce Minimalism is a way to become more mindful of our surroundings and how we live. It’s supposed to help us focus on what we value versus blindly working with little enjoyment. A little-known, stricter version of minimalism has its followers avoid purchasing new items and purchasing what we need from local businesses. The practice (or promise) is called The Compact and was started by a group of friends in the Bay Area in the early 2000s. Other than food or medical supplies, the purpose (and

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argument) is that anything you need is likely found used. This means shopping at thrift stores, yard sales and listings like Craigslist or eBay. Followers might look at things like gift-giving and either try to make gifts or purchase handmade ones. And, similarly to minimalism, buy only what you need not only as a way to be mindful but also to reduce trash in landfills.

While minimalism may seem like a strict, self-imposed lifestyle decision, in some ways it is a return to the past, when we used to make things we needed, traded or purchased from local businesses. We’ve become a culture of convenience and immediate gratification where most items are disposable, valuable only for a brief time. Take inventory of what you have and try to donate or sell it. Then, be more mindful of future purchases. The next time you’re out shopping, think about how much you really need that case of mini cans of soda on sale at Costco.

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wine GigHarborLivingLocal.com

&

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d e in A GUIDE TO WINE FOR THOSE WHO STAY IN WITH TAKEOUT THIS VALENTINE'S DAY

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BY COLIN ANDERSON

o y

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wine & dine yourself

PAIRING AT HOME AFTER YOU’VE TASTED FROM VARIOUS WINERIES you are ready to surprise your Valentine with your new-found wealth of wine knowledge. Plan an evening in for dinner and sample the wines you’ve brought home. You both agree on takeout food for the evening, but what bottle to pair with the food you ordered?

Thai – Thai dishes combine the elements of sweet, sour, spicy and bitter into nearly all meals. If you’re having curry, then a lighter, sweeter white will help cut through the spice without overtaking the flavor of the dish. Traditional German wines like rieslings and gewürztraminer should do you well here.

Sushi – There are all kinds of flavors associated with sushi, whether you go the sashimi route or enjoy creative rolls topped with masago and specialty sauces.

Dry Champagne is a great way to celebrate the night, and the minimal residual sugars will help cleanse your palate between offerings. Northwest salmon goes great with rosé, and Riesling and Pinot Grigio are also good companions.

PHOTO AT LEFT BY SHERAZ MALIK TAKEN AT OLALLA VINEYARD & WINERY

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TIPS FOR TASTERS Wine and chocolate are synonymous with Valentine’s Day. We might not all be professional sommeliers, able to pick out the perfect bottle for every occasion, however there are some easy rules of thumb to follow when choosing a wine for your special occasions. Tasting rooms are all over the Northwest allowing you to try before you buy and giving you access to experts on what wine pairs with various types of food.

We spoke with boutique winery owner Mary Ellen Houston of Olalla Vineyard and Winery on some of the most frequently asked questions for those new to wine tasting.

you are covering your entire palate, noticing the flavor and texture of the wine. Take a second sip and confirm your thoughts on the wine. Water and/or crackers can help to cleanse your palate in between tastings. Remember that wine tasting is a personal experience— what one person likes, another may not. There’s no right or wrong when it comes to personal taste in wine.

Q. WHAT IS THE PROPER SEQUENCE IN WHICH TO SAMPLE A WINE BOTH RED AND WHITE?

A. The best advice is to have an open mind (and palate) to trying new wines. If you are more of a red wine fan, don’t be afraid to try the whites available for tasting. If you are brand new to wine tasting, here are some basics to follow: Avoid wearing perfume or cologne when wine tasting, as the heavy scents can ruin the experience (for everyone). Don’t be afraid to “spit” or “dump” wine (really, it’s OK). And most tasting fees are refunded with a minimum bottle purchase.

A. Tastings usually start with whites and then move on to medium-bodied reds, saving the biggest reds for last. To taste, start by holding the glass by the stem and note the color and clarity of the wine. Swirl the wine to allow for aeration and for the bouquet to “spring” from the glass, taking in the aroma. Finally, take a sip and roll it around in your mouth to make sure

Q. WHAT SHOULD NEWCOMERS TO TASTING ROOMS KNOW BEFORE THEY EMBARK ON A WINE TASTING TOUR?

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Pizza – There’s not much better than pizza and beer, but it’s a special night and there are plenty of wines that go great with traditional red sauce pizza as well. If you’re into the spicy and fatty meats like pepperoni and sausage, bolder reds like syrah or cab franc will pair well. As the toppings get lighter, so do the recommended wines. Hawaiian lovers will want to look at sweeter Rieslings, and those who prefer a pile of veggies on their slice will enjoy a sauvignon blanc.

Dessert – Wine can be dessert all in itself. Typically light and often sweeter Viognier, Moscato, rosé or ice wine can all stand alone or pair with chocolates, cakes or other savory desserts.

Pairings are recommended from winemakers and food professionals, but the bottom line is if there’s a bottle of wine you enjoy and a favorite food you enjoy, don’t be afraid to put them both together anyway. One thought, however, it’s Valentine’s Day, so you might want to lean more toward a white if you’re having more than a glass to avoid the bright red lips, tongue and teeth that can come with reds—unless, of course, you and your loved one can see through the stains and enjoy a smooch anyway. Cheers!

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TIPS FOR TASTERS Q. WHY SHOULD SOME WINES “BREATHE” FOR A FEW MINUTES WHILE OTHERS CAN BE CONSUMED AS SOON AS THE BOTTLE IS OPENED? A. It really depends upon the type of wine. For example, if you are opening a bottle of young red wine, then you would preferably want to decant it for about 30 minutes before enjoying it. Decanting allows more surface area of the wine to come in contact with the air. This allows the wine to “breathe,” which is basically exposing the wine to oxygen.

Oxygen allows the tannins and acid in the wine to mellow and soften, making the wine more enjoyable. Most white wines do not need to breathe since tannin levels are lower (the juice doesn’t sit in the skins for as long as red wine).

Q. WHAT TYPES OF WINE ARE GENERALLY BETTER BEING CELLARED? AND IS IT WORTH IT TO WAIT A COUPLE OF YEARS WHEN PURCHASING THESE BOTTLES? A. Wines worthy of aging tend to have higher, wellbalanced tannin levels, higher acidity and lower alcohol levels, although some wines with an ABV (alcohol by volume) above 13.5 percent are still worth cellaring. Medium to full-bodied reds like grenache, malbec, cabernet sauvignon and just about any Bordeaux blend are best for cellaring because of the characteristics mentioned above. Of course, port and fortified wines age very well. Aging (or cellaring) wine gives the wine time for the acidity to smooth out and tannin levels to break down and soften, making the wine-tasting experience much more enjoyable. The complexities of texture, flavor and aromas of fine wine only become magnified after proper aging.

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Saying “I Do” Tips to making your day the best it can be

"I always tell

By Patty Hutchens

I

t’s the day most women dream of their entire life. From the time they are little girls playing dress up to when they research Pinterest for inspiration for the big day, a woman’s wedding day is something that has been planned—at least in her mind—for a long time. And then her reallife Prince Charming comes along, and she can finally plan the wedding of their dreams.

For some women, they are calm and thoughtful through the process. Others, well, they become “Bridezilla.” We all know them. We’ve seen them.

Heck, we may even have been one of them! But why ruin your special day by turning it into one of the most stressful events of your life?

And men, it’s important to remember to do your part to help make the day as memorable for you and your bride as well. For some, that may mean taking part in every phase of the planning. For others, it means learning the words “yes dear” from day one.

I sat down with Chloe Jenkins, event planner of Blooming Event Design in Sandpoint, Idaho, to find out some important “dos and don’ts” for the big day!

Q. What is the best piece of advice you can give a bride and groom when planning their wedding?

A. “Two words—your day! I always tell the amazing couples I work with that it’s up to them to decide what will make them happiest and to follow their hearts when planning their wedding.

After all, love is what brought them to this point in the first place, so trust their intuition!”

Q. What are things that you typically implement into each wedding you plan to make it run more smoothly regardless of the type of setting (formal church wedding vs. outdoor, etc.)?

A. “An experienced planner is capable of adapting to ongoing circumstances, which is vital to a successful day.

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the amazing couples I work with that it’s up to them to decide what will make them happiest and to follow their hearts when planning

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A flexible timeline will do wonders for the big day! I always have a “Plan B” to accommodate changes in conditions whatever they may be; for example, wheelchair access for guests.

Let’s not forget this is the Northwest; outdoor weddings are fantastic, but don’t be caught out in the rain!

What I provide is peace of mind, which enables the bride and groom to relax and enjoy their special day. My objective is to create an epic gathering wherever you choose to say ‘I do.’”

Q. What is the biggest mistake you see couples make when planning their big day?

A. “Stressing out. Planning a wedding together can be a fun, team-building, exciting time for a couple. Don’t let the stress distract from any of your joy. All the fuss won’t matter once the knot is tied and you are on your way to happily ever after.”

Q. What great success tips can you share?

A. “Choose your most important details. This will help you decide what is a must and what is a bust.

Set time aside for just the two of you. It may not seem apparent, but if you don’t intentionally plan it, you might not get a chance to have a private moment until it’s over.

If you want to tap into your creative side and DIY wedding ideas, go for it! It’s best to choose one or two projects and not over commit yourself or your friends and family.”

Q. Do you have a checklist you typically go through with each of the couples you work with?

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":An experienced planner is capable of adapting to ongoing circumstances which is vital to a successful day."

A. “Most definitely! I get to know the couple, what their likes, dislikes, vibe and overall ideas are. I want to know their unique story. From there, we build upon what they desire and what’s a priority.

If they are a checklist kind of person, I send a to-do list and vendor checklist. If they prefer, I will manage the checklists and pass along the information. Every couple is individual with different needs.”

"Choose your most important details. This will help you decide what is a must and what is a bust."

Q. Why should couples consider hiring a wedding planner?

A. “It’s crucial to have an advocate. This is the person who everyone can go to—the vendors, family and friends. Questions can be answered and decisions can be made by this individual.

As a result, the couple can be calm, happy and stress free. This is why it’s so helpful to hire a wedding planner.

Please don’t give your mom this job. She wants to relax and enjoy the day, too. A planner can help bring your dreams and ideas to life.”

Q. What is your favorite part of the planning process?

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A. “There truly are so many wonderful things about the process. What excites me the most is the design aspect of bringing the couple’s vision to life. What kind of experience do you want to create for your guests? There are so many aspects to consider. People have an idea of what they like; they just don’t know how to put it into motion. A wedding planner can help you get started and see it through till the end.”

their wedding."

Remember, too, when planning the bachelor and bachelorette parties, it is best to have them at least a week before the wedding.

There is nothing worse than a groom and his groomsmen showing up with a touch of the “morning-after flu” at the festivities.

Lastly, the best piece of advice is that the No. 1 “do” when planning and celebrating your marriage is to have fun and relax. You’ve worked hard to make this day special, and you should take time to enjoy it.

And if things don’t go exactly as planned, it’s OK. In the end it will be something to look back on and laugh about. After all, the goal of the day was met. You are now husband and wife!

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TRAVEL & LEISURE

BY COLIN ANDERSON

Romantic Getaways

A WEEKEND FOR TWO

V

acations with family and friends are priceless. Sharing the memories of a trip to a special place with your parents, grandparents, children or close friends is often a lot of fun. It can also be a lot of chaos. Organizing accommodations and activities for large groups and trying to please everyone each day can be a real challenge. Everyone has a different idea of what a vacation entails, so while these trips will be cherished memories, often we could use a trip with only our spouse to truly relax.

Daily monotony, errands, schedules and other curveballs life throws often leads us to forget about the day we said “I do,” or “Will you marry me?” Sometimes all we need to rekindle the feelings of those special days is a short trip away with only your true love by your side. A surprise weekend getaway is often a welcome reprieve, and the thoughtfulness of scheduling a trip and surprising your loved one with everything planned out is sure to be a well-received gesture. With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to get planning and make this year’s holiday of love one that will not soon be forgotten.

As you plan your long weekend away think back to the time you were dating and what you both enjoyed doing most.

Granted life changes a lot through marriages, children, home purchase and job transfers, but harkening back to the early days will often bring back long-forgotten memories. Maybe you were broke college kids when you first met; if so, find a local dive on your trip for a slice of pizza and cheap domestic beer for old-times sake. If you enjoy your local farmers market, take a stroll through one, or if you spent every weekend skiing or hiking the woods, find a location with trails you haven’t yet explored.

As a spouse, you know best what your husband/wife enjoys most and can plan accordingly. You’ve found dates that work, a location that’s perfect and accommodations that are just right, now what to pack. A fun romantic weekend shouldn’t be

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A SURPRISE WEEKEND GETAWAY IS OFTEN A WELCOME REPRIEVE, AND THE THOUGHTFULNESS OF SCHEDULING A TRIP AND SURPRISING YOUR LOVED ONE WITH EVERYTHING PLANNED OUT IS SURE TO BE A WELL-RECEIVED GESTURE.

sidetracked by worrying over things you might have forgotten, so take a little extra time before the trip, and don’t forget a few easy things that we might often overlook.

Cash – Still accepted everywhere! Some smaller businesses are still “cash only,” so having some on hand to grab a coffee, gift or snack is easier than trying to track down an ATM. Bottle Openers – You remembered your favorite bottle of wine or craft six-pack, but when you’re ready for that drink, whoops! Stash both a wine opener and bottle opener so you don’t have to run to the drug store on your romantic night in.

Swimsuit – Even if it’s the dead of winter you never know when you might need it. You might find out your destination has a hot tub, heated year-round pool or is near natural hot springs.

A Surprise – Though the trip itself is sure to be filled with plenty of fun, a small gift or card upon check in will start your trip off on the right foot.

Appropriate Footwear – Comfortable shoes for walking in town, hiking boots for any kind of exploring and don’t forget dress shoes if you plan on

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going out for a nice dinner.

Deck of Cards or Your Favorite Game – Keep the TV off at night and play a game instead, something not too competitive as to not spoil the evening!

Luckily the West is rife with quaint small towns, glamorous cities and relaxing bed and breakfasts. Here are some of our favorite areas to explore with your special someone.

Walla Walla, Washington – Located in the Southeast corner of the state a stone’s throw from the Oregon border, Walla Walla is the destination for wine lovers. With 120 wineries to choose from in the Walla Walla Valley, you’ll find a tasting experience that’s perfect for your trip. Many are located downtown making it easy to stroll from one to the next while enjoying the quaint downtown. Transportation and tours are easily arranged to those located on the outskirts of town. The award-winning wineries have attracted many well-respected chefs who often partner with wineries for specialized wine pairing dinners. There are plenty of bed and breakfasts, and the Marcus Whitman Hotel is a true gem of the state. Enjoy fine dining and fine wine in this charming community.

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Spice up your relationship Winthrop, Washington – The Methow Valley is a place to unwind, unplug and find peace in its tranquil rolling landscape. For those who like to stay active during the weekend, Winthrop is home base for numerous hiking trails in the summer and the largest groomed crosscountry ski trails system in the nation at more than 120 miles during winter. The Western flair of the storefronts downtown makes for a fun stroll through the town’s shops and restaurants, and the North Cascades Highway is a beautiful drive any time of year. While there are some upscale accommodations here, try out the more basic rooms and enjoy a conversation with your loved one with a hot drink under a warm blanket.

Oregon Coast – There are few things more soothing than hearing waves breaking on the shore, and you’ll find miles of that familiar sound up and down the Oregon coast. While bustling in the summer, colder seasons are a little more relaxed allowing for a somewhat easier time getting around.

You can park in the town that best suits your interests or decide to spend a night in multiple locations. A stroll on the beach at sunrise or sunset is always a perfect start or end to the day. Enjoy fresh brewed coffee in the morning, lunch made from local ingredients and many fine water-view restaurants for the perfect romantic weekend.

McCall, Idaho – As you head north from Boise, first-time visitors to Idaho are shocked to find that it’s not all flat potato fields. McCall is a

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town of roughly 3,000 people situated on beautiful Lake Payette. The town is known for its bountiful recreation year round. During the winter months, you are just 15 minutes from Brundage Mountain and less than 45 minutes from Tamarack Resort. You can also cross-country ski or arrange to rent snowmobiles. In summer, the lake is alive with water sports, and hiking the nearby Payette National forest or rafting the famous Snake River and Hells Canyon is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

You can also seek out relaxing hot springs in the surrounding areas, some of which are developed pools and others a day hike in to a natural setting.

Whitefish, Montana – Northwest Montana is blessed with amazing scenic beauty, and Whitefish is the perfect home base for exploring. If you want to leave the car at home, hop aboard the Amtrak anywhere from Seattle to Minneapolis and it will drop you off in the heart of downtown.

While wealthy out-of-state homeowners have built massive homes and ranches in the surroundings, the town itself has kept its Western charm with a great mix of Montana casual steakhouses, breweries, outdoor shops and art galleries. A stay at The Lodge at Whitefish Lake puts you waterfront, and the hotel can arrange transportation to Whitefish Mountain or Glacier National Park with a relaxing trip to the spa at the end of your day exploring.

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Eat Well Eat Local

Gig Harbor Living Local Dining Guide 2018 GigHarborLivingLocal.com

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FOOD & DRINK

By Chef Troy Louis Chandler

Dinner for two

For this dinner we will be using lamb shanks. If you can’t find them or don’t like lamb, you can replace them with short ribs, beef shanks or even oxtail. The preparation will be the same for all. You will need to pick a vegetable side and also make (or buy) mashed potatoes. For your wine choice, I would go with a full-bodied dark red from Washington; a merlot, cabernet sauvignon, petite verdot or a blend of these. Grab a dessert—you can’t go wrong with something chocolatey—while you’re there as well. You want to finish this off right!

Serves 2

Ingredients: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

2 lamb shanks 1/2 cup flour 1 tsp. salt 1 tsp. black pepper 1/4 cup cooking oil 1 large carrot, medium diced 1/2 yellow onion, medium diced 1 stalk celery, medium diced 3 bay leaves 4 garlic cloves, smashed 8 black peppercorns 1 cup red wine 4 strands of fresh thyme 4 sticks of fresh rosemary Zest of one lemon 2 cups low-sodium beef stock Pipe stock (aka water)

Method:

tip

So you waited to make reservations for Valentine’s at your favorite restaurant. Every place is booked, even that weird strip-mall place that seems to change concepts more than you change the channel on a Saturday afternoon. Now what? Don’t worry. Ol’ Chef Troy has your back.

• Mix the salt and pepper into the flour.

• Coat the shanks in the flour.

• In a heavy pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium heat.

• Add shanks and cook on all sides until browned.

• Add carrots, onions, garlic and celery and sauté for one minute.

• Add wine and simmer for one minute.

• Add remaining ingredients and enough water to just cover the shanks.

• Cover and place in a 350°F oven for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours until fork tender (this can be done on the stovetop as well).

• Uncover and cook for another 20 minutes.

• Remove shanks and strain liquid into a separate bowl discarding the veg.

• Return liquid to pot and simmer on the stovetop until sauce reduces and thickens.

Season to taste.

• Plate your mashed potatoes at 12 o’clock, you vegetables at 4 o’clock and lean your lamb against the potatoes at 7 o’clock.

• Pour your reduced sauce over the lamb and get ready for a standing ovation!

REAL TASTY

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Winner

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

ENTERTAINMENT

February 10

Love the Wine You’re With FEBRUARY 10 MARKS THE THIRD ANNUAL WINTER SIP & STROLL

BY JILLIAN CHANDLER

S

ponsored by Anthony’s at Gig Harbor, the Winter Sip & Stroll, presented by the Gig Harbor Downtown Waterfront Alliance and the Rotary Club of Gig Harbor, returns to the Downtown Waterfront.

Held 1 to 5pm Saturday, February 10, spend an afternoon with your significant other or friends in beautiful Downtown Gig Harbor strolling along the wintery waterfront while sipping wines (with a few beers and ciders available for tasting as well). Your ticket, priced $30 to $35 in advance and $40 at the door the day of the event, will get you a tasting glass, 15 sip tickets and a map to help guide you to each Downtown Waterfront tasting destination. If you happen to discover a new wine that you’d like to purchase and take home, the wine store, which will be located at the registration location at the Brewery Banquet Room at 7 Seas Brewing (3006 Judson Street) will feature the bottled wines served at the stroll stops and will be available for purchase until 6pm.

Wines will be featured from Blossom Bros.,

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Carl’s Pond Winery, Chateau Rombeau, Foxy Roxy Dessert Wines, Long Cellars, Masquerade Wine Company, Obelisco Estate Wines, Olalla Vineyard & Winery, Patterson Cellars, Proud Pour and Three of Cups, as well as others.

Featured breweries include 7 Seas Brewing Co. and Gig Harbor Brewing Company, with Ciders from Dragon’s Head on Vashon Island.

Participating stroll stop businesses include 7 Seas Brewing, Anthony’s at Gig Harbor, A/R Workshop, Dolly Mama Boutique, Ebb Tide Gallery, For the Love of Spice, Gig Harbor Audio, the soon-to-be-open Gig Harbor Brewing taproom, Gig Harbor Marina & Boatyard, Harbor WildWatch, Lucky Dog Outfitters, Morso, Sea Hags, Sharon’s Spa & Resale Boutique, Tickled Pink and The Weathered Cottage.

Parking is available at the Methodist Church on Pioneer and throughout the Downtown Waterfront. For more information, contact the Alliance office at 253.514.0071 or visit Gig Harbor Wine & Food Festival on Facebook.

24th annual wearable art sale & show

Many

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Your purchase of new wearable art benefits the YWCA Pierce County’s life-saving domestic violence services.

GALA PREVIEW March 8th 6PM – 9PM $80 per person SALE & GALLERY March 9th & 10th 10AM – 6PM March 11th 10AM – 4PM Admission is free

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GALA TICKETS Call: 253.272.4181 x 352 Visit: ragswearableart.org MERCEDES-BENZ OF TACOMA 1701 Alexander Ave. East Fife, WA

Titus Will Families Foundation

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

FEB

Live Music in The Loft

09

Fridays from 6:30 to 8:30pm, enjoy live music at Olalla Vineyard and Winery featuring fabulous musicians each week. Smoked Salmon or salami and cheese picnic baskets are available for purchase along with other snack items and wine by the glass or bottle. Ages 21 and older. February performers include Kenny Callahan, Paul and Marcie Forrest, Linda Nicole Blair, and “Harmonica Dave” Canales. Register online at OlallaWines.com.

FEB

The Shy Boys at MarKee

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Gig Harbor Markee welcomes The Shy Boys 7 to 10pm both nights. This cover band performs everything from The Beatles, Cat Stevens, Fleetwood Mac, Michael Jackson, The Police and more!Reservations will be accepted for those wanting to attend the event. There is a $25 minimum per seat; email Angie at hello@drinkmarkee.com.

FEB

10

Winter Sip & Stroll

Head to Gig Harbor’s Downtown Waterfront for the third annual Winter Sip and Stroll where you will enjoy wine, brews and cider sips along with small bites, 1 to 5pm. Tickets are $35 in advance and $40 the day of the event and can be purchased online at EventBrite.com. For more information, call 253.514.0071.

FEB

FEB

10

Early Learning Jamboree & Kindergarten Fair

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KPCC’s Dungeness Crab Feed

10:30am to 12:30pm, head to the Tom Taylor YMCA to learn from more than 50 vendors about a variety of preschools, public and private kindergarten, enrichment experiences, and school readiness strategies for parents. There will be fun activities for the children, food, a free children’s book and other giveaways.

Call 253.853.9622 for additional details.

Join the Key Peninsula Civic Center for their third annual Crab Feed featuring fresh-caught Pawwcific Coast dungeness crab! The event takes place 4 to 7pm and the menu also includes spaghetti, Caesar salad and garlic bread. This is a family friendly feast to benefit the KPCCA. Tickets can be purchased online at KPCivicCenter.org.

Upcoming Events - March 3

PIER INTO THE NIGHT WITH LIVE DIVE

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MAR 8-11 - 24TH ANNUAL WEARABLE ART SALE & SHOW

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MAR 9-APR 13 - PARADISE THEATRE PRESENTS XANADU

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MALO CASTRO BAND AT MARKEE

SAVE THE DATES

JULY 12th-15th at CenterPlace Regional Event Center in Spokane Valley For more event details visit

CraveNW.com

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FEB

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Puppy Love Fundraiser

Puppy Love is a silent auction created to raise money for Sunny Sky’s Animal Rescue, which relies completely on the generosity of people like you. Your ticket to the event includes heavy appetizers, complimentary drinks, a well-rounded collection of auction items to bid on, adorable dogs available for adoption and more! Tickets can be purchased at EventBrite.com

FEB

FEB

FEB

Paint Night

Cocktails & Fishtales

Humanities in the Harbor

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Just in time for Valentine’s Day, have fun creating a painting together with your significant other. Cost is $35 per person and includes materials and instruction.

No art experience is required. It’s sure to be a fun evening of art and friends.

Food, drink and service provided by the Markee Coffee shop. To register, contact margaretolsonmeco@msn.com.

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Put on by Harbor WildWatch the third Wednesday of each month February through November, this event offers an evening of drinks and informative presentation. The event is open to everyone 21 and older and is free for Harbor WildWatch Steward Club members, with a suggested $5 donation for non-members.Doors open at 5:30pm.

HarborWildWatch.org.

Father/Daughter Dance at Canterwood Country Club

FEB

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February 24 marks the second annual Father/Daughter Dance, hosted by St. Nicholas Catholic School, 6 to 8pm for the enchanted Forest Package (5 to 8pm with the all-inclusive ticket purchase). Tickets are $50 to $100 per father/daughter couple ($15 to $25 per additional child). For additional information and to purchase tickets, visit StNicholasCS.org.

Join Harbor History Museum 6 to 7pm for a special presentation brought to you

by Humanities Washington - Washington at War: The Evergreen State in World War I. Humanities Washington sparks conversation and critical thinking using story as a catalyst, nurturing thoughtful and engaged communities across our state.

Call 253.858.6722 for more information.

FEB

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Mixed Media Workshop with Catherine Gill

24& 25. The Peninsula Art League presents a mixed-media workshop with Catherine Gill, a well-known artist and teach in the Northwest, February 24 and 25. She calls the workshop Ooze - Mixing it up with Watercolor and Pastel. For workshop details and to sign up, visit PeninsulaArtLeague.com.

Upcoming Events - March 17

CELEBRATE ST. PATRICK’S DAY AT THE CLUB

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COCKTAILS & FISHTALES AT WILDWATCH

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A NIGHT AT THE BOATYARD RAINY DAYZ SILENT AUCTION & DINNER

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OLALLA VINEYARD AND WINERY MUSIC IN THE LOFT

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RBOR.COM

OWNED & OPERATED

BY THE DENNY FAMILY

We have multiple locations to serve you!

FIX AUTO PUYALLUP 11403 Valley Ave E Puyallup, WA 98372 Toll free: (866) 260-0425

FIX AUTO GIG HARBOR 2905 Jahn Ave NW #8 Gig Harbor, WA 98335 (253) 858-3522

FIX AUTO PORT ORCHARD 2585 Mitchell SE Port Orchard, WA 98633 (888) 218-6166

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Pier Into the Night Find out what creatures lurk beneath the surface through this virtual SCUBA experience.

First Saturdays, October through March at Jerisich Public Dock.

WHEN: WHERE:

This free event is open for all ages. Donations kindly accepted.

TIME: TICKETS:

Check our website for specific times.

Saturday, March 17th The Club @ Gig Harbor Marina & Boatyard 6:00pm - 9:00pm *doors open at 5:30pm

$50 per person

2018tgg.eventbrite.com

Wine, beer and soft drinks included.

Get Your Tickets Today!

TGG sells out early each year!

Celebrating its 8th year, The Green Gigâ&#x201E;˘ is an annual locally grown tradition!

The fun-filled evening will feature an Irish-themed meal transformed by one of North Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Top Teppanyaki Masters, Celebrity Chef Michael Monzon.

Learn more at harborwildwatch.org 253.514.0187

Annually, TGG provides guests a magical farm-2-table experience, replete with live music, heartwarming stories, and original collaborative artworks created with local artists and unique experiences on auction.

Proceeds benefit the Stewards Scholarship Fund and work to help bridge the early learning gap in our community. Committed to offering all area children the strong start they deserve, the Foundation has provided over $125,000 of support for early childhood education since 2012.

For more information: (253) 514-6338

GigHarborLivingLocal.com

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Waterfront Luxury On Fox Island 4,148 sq. ft. | 100 ft. Low-Bank Frontage MLS: #1221074

THE HOME PORT OF EXTRAORDINARY! Joe Sanchez & Associates “We Sell Homes. We Build Relationships.”

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Coldwell Banker Bain, Gig Harbor 253-853-2262 JSAssociates@CBBain.com www.WaterfrontGigHarbor.com

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Call Calltoday today today learn learn more more about about our Priority Priority Club Club for forour our Call tototo learn more about ourour Priority Club for our boutique boutique living living properties properties in in Gig Gig Harbor, Harbor, WA WA coming coming soon! boutique living properties in Gig Harbor, WA - coming soon! soon!

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253.858.7588 253.858.7588www.KensingtonGardens.com www.KensingtonGardens.com www.KensingtonGardens.com 253.858.7588

Antoinette's Home and Garden Design & Staging

AFTER

The customer’s goal was to achieve instant curb appeal for the otherwise boring front view of the home. Greg Green’s team brought this property to life while he worked closely with Toni Gibbs, the designer on the project, to create the pleasing, organic, curved, rock walls and meandering staircases.

We look forward to another year of making your landscape into a dreamscape. Give us a call we can’t wait to get started!

Owner: Greg Green | (360) 340-3329 | GREENIL970BM Lic # greg@greensirrigationandlandscape.com

Staging Gardens • Garden Design • Garden Clean up • Designing Container Gardens

253-223-3520 | toni.gibbs@comcast.net|

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PENINSULA AUTO GROUP

CERTIFIED PRE-OWNED Closed On Sundayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s For Family Day | Free Oil Changes for Life | Lower Tax Rate 15 Minutes from the Bridge | Stellar Care Dealer for 7 Years in a Row Locally Owned Since 2001

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3888 W State Hwy 16 | Bremerton, WA 98312 360.479.4320 | 1.800.458.5808 www.peninsulasubaru.com

(253) 530-7300

Fax (253) 530-7301 (253) 530-7300GigHarborLivingLocal.com

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