July 2017 Gig Harbor Living Local

JUL 2017

LIVING LOCAL

Heroes

Helping Heroes

an officer’s family

A Day in the Life

GigHarborLivingLocal.com

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GHHS

Tides

Take State!

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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THANK YOU GIG HARBOR FOR A RECORD BREAKING FIRST HALF OF 2017!

WORKING HARD FOR YOUR EXCEPTIONAL RESULTS!

CAROLYN WESTMORELAND Broker/Owner WESTMORELAND PROPERTIES 253-961-5596 carolyn@westmorelandproperties.net

Exceptional Service, Exceptional Company.

Mikaela Rice

Hannah R

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

ichards

“The team that leads to successful closings.”

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

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

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PROTECTION FOR YOU

AND YOUR BUSINESS. I know how much hard work and support it takes to fulill your dream. Contact me to learn how I can help protect your growing business. Let’s talk today.

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

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American Family Mutual Insurance Company, American Family Insurance Company, 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 ©2016 011770 – 4/16

Come home to Kensington Gardens...for the time of your life!

Y O U R L I F E . Y O U R W A Y.

Personalized care should the need arise. 253.858.7588 3804 Olson Drive NW Gig Harbor Come home - for the time of your life! | www.KensingtonGardens.com |3804 Olson NW Gig Harbor

Lovely room currently available! Call for a tour!

Call 253.858.7588 for a tour!

SOLD

SOLD

Lynnwood • $503,000 Sold in 5 days $68,050 over list price.

Mill Creek • $785,930 SOLD

Carnation • $390,000 Sold in 6 days $50,050 over list price.

N. Tacoma • $349,950

Lydia Geline 253-242-0728 206-419-0775 lgeline@windermere.com www.lydiageline.com

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20 years of sales in King County Now selling in Pierce County

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When family memories don’t involve car problems

You make new, better memories.

3 YEAR - 36,000 WARRANTY on all brake service.

No fine print. No questions asked.

6 Months Roadside Assistance with every oil change Local trusted service since 2001 Domestic | European |GigHarborLivingLocal.com Asian Auto Service

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Call us today at 253.851.3307 mackertautomotive.com

July Special

It's July! Your flag should be waving, not your carpet!

20% off

Carpet Stretching

Carpet Care Northwest Serving the Gig Harbor Community and Surrounding Areas Since 2002

(253) 874-4377

"Your carpet stretching experts"

www.CarpetCareNW.com | carpetcarenw@comcast.net

Science based medicine, delivered with compassion.

ANNA COLOMBINI, nd

Naturopathic Physician Owner, Medical Director

For appointments and information please contact us

frontdesk@peninsulanaturalhealth.com

253.857.5544 5603 38th Ave. NW Gig Harbor, WA 98335

www.PeninsulaNaturalHealth.com

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JULY 2017

VOLUME 4 NUMBER 7

76

58

Heroes Helping Heroes

A Day In The Life

The brave men and women who serve our country and our local communities in the form of military, firefighters and law enforcement are the true heroes of today. Be inspired by other heroes in the community, who come in many forms.

What is it really like to be a family in law enforcement? Meet one wife and hear from her about what life entails—for the whole family—when Dad’s a police officer, and the reality of the struggles many never think of.

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Living Local

It was a season to celebrate, ending with the big win! But it wasn’t something that happened over night. Hard work and dedication by both Tides coaches and players alike made a dream a reality—winning the Championship!

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Choosing the perfect home isn’t always easy.

But it doesn’t have to be hard either.

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

Call me for an easy, no-hassle consultation today.

253.732.0534 sue@suerand.com www.suerand.com

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

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GIGHARBORLIVINGLOCAL.COM

Eat. Shop. Enjoy.

MARKETING

Washington Director | Julie Reed 253.273.8524 | julie@livinglocal360.com Washington Marketing Director | Jamie Taylor 253.906.4735 | jamie@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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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 | Whitney Lebsock Senior Designer | Rachel Figgins Designer & Media Manager Maddie Russo

ACCOUNTING/OPERATIONS

Managing Partner | Kim Russo Executive Director | Steve Russo Operations Director | Jessica Herbig

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Jim Tisch

GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL MAGAZINE

is brought to you by LivingLocal360.com.

If you would like to advertise with us please call 253.906.4735 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

Wiley, a 8 1/2 week old Bernese Mountain Dog, on his first visit to the pet store.

Make your life

KnifeForkSpoon

Easier and Healthier.

Simple and Handcrafted We plan, shop, chop and slice for YOU! Our frozen meals won’t spoil, so you can use them when you want!

Dinner Breakfast Side Dishes and Desserts

Order at: www.frozenknifeforkspoon.com 707.564.3301 Dinner. Healthy. Fast. Delicious.

2609 Jahn Ave., Suite F5, Gig Harbor

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f frozenknifeforkspoon.com

Magnificent

SUMMER

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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 A Reason to Celebrate LAW ENFORCEMENT. Firefighters. The U.S. military. All who serve in these roles are given the task of keeping us safe at home and abroad. They put their lives in danger each and every day. Often, we take for granted the high price that these men and women pay so that we continue to be and remain one of the truly greatest countries in the world.

As we observe the Fourth of July, let us sit back and reflect on how fortunate we are to live in a country where we are free to express religious beliefs and are blessed with an abundance of opportunities. Offer prayers of gratitude for the blessings we have and for those first responders and military who serve our country and communities. And … let’s celebrate!

Celebrate not only the joy that stems from the independence and freedom with which we are blessed, but celebrate the love of family and friends. Plan get-togethers with them, invite them for dinner or a day at the beach. Reconnect with people with whom you have lost touch. And while you celebrate, remember to give thanks that you live in a country that is one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

Steve Russo “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.”

office

Steve Russo Executive Director steve@livinglocal360.com

JUL 2017

PLAY BALL! NOTHING QUITE compares to sitting in the bleachers and watching a good ol’ game of baseball—especially when your team hits it out of the park with the big win!

Photographer Jim Tisch captured the excitement of the Gig Harbor High School Baseball Team after winning state this year at Safeco Field.

LIVING LOCAL

an officer’s

253.853.2033 www.familyfirstafh.com

address

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

Helping

Heroes

ingLocal.com

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Proud To Partner

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family

A Day in the Life

Heroes

GigHarborLiv

web

ABOUT THE COVER

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GHHS

Tides

Take State!

LLC

Compassionate,

Specializing in Cosmetic Skincare

individualized Botox® Juvederm® Chemical peels

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Stop in for our skincare products:

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SkinMedica®, Glytone® & Avene®

HarborHealthandSkincare.net

f Call to Schedule a Tour Today Bryan Bosveld - Broker 5775 Soundview Dr., Ste. B 202 • Gig Harbor, WA 98335 Main 253.514.7348 • Office 253.693.4940 Bryan@infinityrewa.com

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Find us on Facebook!

4221 Harborview Drive Suite 103 Gig Harbor, WA 98335

253.314.2618

#GIGHARBORLIVING GET SOCIAL & LIVE LOCAL! Use the tag #GigHarborLiving when you post your photos on Instagram and Facebook. Your photos will show up on our Get Social page at

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via vineshop mainand suchristy redit: @w c to o h P for Gig. igharbor Grateful rliving #g nd o rb a h ig #g ugetsou #pnw #p

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

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S E E M O R E AT W W W. G I G H A R B O R L I V I N G L O C A L . C O M CONNECT WITH GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL MAGAZINE! facebook.com/gogigharbor

pinterest.com/LL360

CONTACT US TO ADVERTISE instagram.com/gigharborliving

twitter.com/gogigharbor

Contributors

Brett Marlo DeSantis • Deborah Olive • Cheri Johnson • Sarah Polyakov • Matt Thompson Rhonda Savage • Deanna Iff • Jan Lee • Zoey Taylor • David Angell • Annie Nye

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Julie Reed Washington Director 253.273.8524 julie@livinglocal360.com

We Simplify Life’s Transitions ✓ Plan ✓ Rightsize ✓ Move, Unpack

QUALITY

& Settle In

✓ Liquidate Unwanted Items

YOU CAN TRUST

Your Local Roofing, Decking And Exterior Paint Experts

Schedule your FREE 1-Hour Consultation!

253-298-2454

www.CreasyConstructionLLC.com info@creasyconstructionllc.com GigHarborLivingLocal.com

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253.777.5895 206.962.0015 RightsizingForSeniors.com

www.

TABLE OF CONTENTS 29

20 Essentials

The latest tips and trends.

29 Life & Community Great local events and stories.

30 Business Spotlight Kit Kuhn for mayor.

32 Good News

Violet Brielle, the supergirl next door.

36 Gig Harbor In Focus

Helping kids reach their full potential tomorrow by meeting basic needs today.

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42 Living Local GHHS baseball champs.

48 Hometown Experts The best local businesses.

50 Health & Lifestyle

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

58 Feature Story

Local communities supporting and assisting our home heroes.

Would you like to receive this issue and future issues in your inbox?

Visit GigHarborLivingLocal.com and sign up for our FREE Green edition!

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88

66 Heroes Helping Heroes Law Enforcement Exploring Program.

76 Dedication to Community A career in law enforcement requires sacrifices by entire family.

88 Travel & Leisure Canada’s little desert oasis.

96 Food & Drink

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Discover Gig Harbor’s tastiest destinations.

104 Arts & Entertainment

Calendar of great local events, music and shows.

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CANTERWOOD GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB With a Club Corp membership you can enjoy all the amenities this beautiful gated community has to offer. World class golf course, tennis, pool, fitness center, clubhouse & restaurant.

TRADITIONAL ELEGANCE IN CANTERWOOD $745,000

BEAUTIFUL CRAFTSMANSHIP ON THE FAIRWAY $710,000

SPECTACULAR FAIRWAY & LAKE VIEWS $1,095,000

GigHarborHomes.com

call us now for an immediate release of homes available in your desired location!

Linda Petersen - Owner/Broker 253-549-6290 Seana Wohlfeil - Broker 253-549-3386 info@lindapetersenteam.com f / LindaPetersenTeam

DOWNLOAD THE ENVOY MORTGAGE APP ON THE GOOGLE PLAY & APP STORE

A CONVENIENT LOAN PROCESS

7901 Skansie Ave, Ste.145, Gig Harbor, WA 98335

YOURSELF WITH 4 MORTGAGE CALCULATORS

Cell : (360) 471-8211

TRINETTE GATES

Loan Originator | NMLS ID# 112074

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WITH US ANY TIME OF DAY

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YOUR HOME BUYING EXPERIENCE

www.LoanProGates4u.com tgates@envoymortgage.com

Practical Living

ESSENTIALS Article by Brett Marlo DeSantis

PARK(ING) DAY+ 2017 YOU ARE INVITED!

WANT TO VISIT POP-UP places in the harbor, meet more of our community, converse, laugh and interact? This fun-filled two-day event makes it easy to accomplish all those things. Check out local artists, and learn about local events and history.

See what’s under the Puget Sound; talk about diving, boating or gardening with local aficionados. Simply listen to tunes and stories, play games, people watch, relax, chat and more. Pack some food, buy some food or share some food. Gather and enjoy these temporary spaces to take in different views of our wonderful city.

What is Park(ing) Day? It is worldwide movement to improve the quality of the public realm by interacting through occupying parking spaces. The idea is that while the vast majority of urban outdoor space is dedicated to vehicles, we can temporarily create open space for people to converse about our community and our passions.

These spaces can become galleries to gardens to picnic spots. Perhaps we will

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Your Local Gig Harbor Expert REALTORS 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

Kathryn Dunham REALTOR/ MANAGING BROKER 206-617-7619

www.WeDonateTogether.com

Thursdays, 3pm-7pm June-August 2017 fresh ● local ● delicious fruits & vegetables ● seafood & meat ● eggs ● cheese ● fresh flowers live music ● natural products ● chef & artist demos

Easy accessby by foot, foot, car, andand Trolley Easy access car,boat boat TrolPremier Sponsor

www.gigharborguide.com

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JUST SHOW UP

the following: planning, acquiring materials, setting up, volunteering at the space during the event or even tear down and cleaning up.

Of course, there is always the option to just show up! This is a free event, and it is truly important just to walk the streets and take in the action. It doesn’t matter whether you are curious or skeptical. The success of this event is based on creating community conversations. have a free bike-repair station, books, games, device-charging station through solar, seeds or plants. Who knows what this year might bring?

So who is participating? This is an inclusive event—not just for the downtown crowd, though that’s where it is hosted. Consider this your invitation to get involved before the event is dialed in and done!

There are many ways to participate before, during or after the event.

If you are a downtown merchant, sign up for a space to be occupied in front of your business!

You may either occupy the space yourself or offer it up to a local organization, or even better, partner up.

If you are part of, or know of, a local organization that you feel could be a great fit for this event, please share this information with them.

You may decide to support a popup that you are passionate about by helping with any of

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If you love to walk or run, sign up for the Park(ing) Day fun run that will take place Saturday morning. We will begin our outand-back route on Soundview and Judson and run through the downtown streets filled with these fun pop-up places and turn around in the Finholm District. This way you can preview your favorite spots to stop at post-run!

Park(ing) Day+ Gig Harbor will take place on Friday, September 15, and Saturday, September 16 (exact times will be released later) in Downtown Gig Harbor; a park(ing) map with

A A A H!

affordable adaptable alternative housing

You may decide to support a popup that you are passionate about by helping with any of the following: planning, acquiring materials, setting up, volunteering at the space during the event or even teardown and cleaning up.

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

location, pop-up sponsor plus subject will be available in advance.

To register for the fun run, go to Eventbrite and sign up. Fun-run participants will get a groovy swag shirt!

If you want to participate in occupying, designing or crafting a pop-up space, contact Brett at brett@brettmarlo.com. We are excited to hook you up with a spot and will be hosting design charrettes with plenty of design help throughout the month of July.

We build it.

BRETT MARLO DESIGN BUILD

253 376 7935 - brettmarlo.com -

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LICENSE # BRETTMD892QP

ESSENTIALS

REMODELING YOUR HOME? WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

BY ANNIE NYE, INTERIOR DESIGNER

Come celebrate life on the water.

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

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

Visit 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

MY PARENTS ARE REMODELING their home, and not having done this before, they needed some guidance with what they should be doing and when. This made me think that most of us in the industry take for granted that you all know what you are supposed to be doing, and apparently that is not always the case!

potential contractor. Ask about timeframe, such as when the contractor could start, how long the anticipated work will take, what you should expect during construction, and then most importantly what decisions you are responsible for making along the way. Make a clear distinction of what you need to be doing versus what your contractor will be doing.

In a perfect world, your contractor would provide you with a list of items that you are responsible for picking out. However, most of them work with various trades and will send you into that store to pick out your materials, so that list is not necessary. They do this because we work with these contractors on a continual basis. This means we know their budgets, we know their expectations in product quality, and we know what they need us to do. For example, when a homeowner is sent in to our showroom, we help them select cabinets, countertops, doors, windows, trim, hardware, flooring materials, shower doors and window coverings. These are all items that require lead times and installation coordination with the builder.

In most new construction or remodels, you will be responsible for picking out the following:

It makes it pretty easy for you to walk into a showroom, select what you like and then be able to walk out. On the back end of that, we work diligently with your contractor to come up with a design, provide drawings and budgets, the ordering process, receive product and make sure it’s the correct color and wasn’t damaged in shipping. We then coordinate delivery and even installation by our professionals.

However, if you need help with this process or don’t have a contractor who utilizes trade services like this, you may need assistance on what you need to be doing.

You need to ask specific questions when you are first meeting with a contractor or

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• Cabinetry – species, color, door style • Countertops – stone, quartz, solid surface, laminate • Sinks and faucets – material, style, color • Flooring – tile, vinyl, hardwood, carpet • Tile – showers, flooring, backsplash • Trim profile, species, and color • Interior and exterior doors • Finish colors of hardware for hinges, etc.

• Windows – color, operating style, material • Wall texture and paint color • Window coverings – style, fabric, operating systems • Shower doors – glass selection, operating system, frame type • Any glass selections, such as mirrors or decorative cabinet glass • Door and cabinet hardware – finish, material, style • Light fixtures – finish, style The contractor will then coordinate correct sizes, rough-ins and installation of these items, and most offer their opinion when you ask, but ultimately, it’s your house and your decision on the finishes you put in it.

If you need help coordinating these finishes, you can hire an interior designer or gather a group of your friends for a second opinion.

GETTING YOUR FINANCIAL AFFAIRS IN ORDER ESTATE PLANNING TIPS

BY CHERI JOHNSON, STRATEGIC WEALTH ADVISORS

1. Create a will if you don’t have one. A will drafted with the guidance of an estate-planning attorney may prove to be some of the best money you’ve ever spent, saving your heirs from some expensive headaches linked to probate.

Include related documents, i.e., trusts, durable financial and medical powers of attorney, living wills.

A living will makes your wishes known when it comes to life-prolonging medical treatments, and it takes the form of a directive. A durable medical power of attorney authorizes another party to make medical decisions for you (including endof-life decisions) if you become incapacitated or otherwise unable to make these decisions.

2. Review beneficiary designations. Who is the beneficiary of your IRA? 401(k)? Annuity or life insurance policy?

Retirement accounts and life-insurance beneficiary designations take priority over bequests made in wills and living trusts. If you long ago named a relative now estranged from you as the beneficiary of your life-insurance policy, they will receive the death benefit when you die, regardless of what your will states.

3. Create asset and debt lists. Provide your heirs with an asset and debt inventory so that they can properly handle estate financial matters.

Create lists that detail: • Real property and personal property assets. List any real estate you own and its value, personal property items in your home, garage, backyard, warehouse, storage unit or small business that have notable monetary worth.

• Bank and brokerage accounts, your retirement accounts, and any other forms of investment, plus any insurance policies.

ORGANIZE

• Credit card debts, your mortgage and/or HELOC and any other outstanding consumer loans.

4. Be clear about the causes and charities that mean the most to you. Have you ever seen bereavement notices requesting that donations be made to an organization or charity in lieu of flowers? If that’s something you would like to have happen, write down the associations you belong to and the organizations you support.

5. Select a reliable executor. Who have you chosen to administer your estate when the time comes? Is there a possibility that your named executor might die before you do? How well do they comprehend financial matters or the basic principles of estate law?

Your Life.

Your Goals.

Our Focus.

While developing a personalized financial plan for you, Cheri Johnson Strategic Wealth Advisors LLC will walk you through a step-by-step planning process designed to give you confidence in Your Life decisions.

Once your objectives have been established, we will help you customize appropriate strategies to pursue Your Goals.

Then we’ll will help you build a financial plan keeping Our Focus on you and utilizing strategic solutions to address: • • • • • •

Tax Management Investment Management Income Strategies Social Security Maximization Estate Conservation Legacy Planning

Your executor should have copies of your will, forms of power of attorney and any kind of healthcare proxy or living will. Anyone referenced in these documents should also receive copies of them.

6. Talk to the professionals. Do-it-yourself estate planning is not recommended, especially if your estate is complex enough to trigger financial, legal and/or emotional issues among your heirs upon your passing. We are happy to provide names of attorneys that specialize in this type of work.

If you own a business, have a blended family, have kids with special needs, worry about dementia or want to avoid probate delays plus probate fees whittling away at assets you have accumulated, these are all good reasons to create and maintain an estate-planning strategy.

Cheri Johnson is a registered representative of and securities offered through USA Financial Securities, 6020 E. Fulton, Ada, Michigan, Member FINRA/ SIPC. A registered investment advisor, Strategic Wealth Advisors LLC is not affiliated with USA Financial Securities. Cheri Johnson is not an attorney and does not provide legal advice.

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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

A MORE BEAUTIFUL QUESTION HIGH-QUALITY QUESTIONS REALIZE HIGH-QUALITY RESULTS

BY DEBORAH OLIVE, BUSINESS/LIFE COACH

R E S U LT S

BOB STANISH WELCOMED HIS BRAND new sixth-grade class.

“Today, you’re pupils. Up until now, you’ve learned to memorize the books and materials we give you. By the end of the year, many of you will be students. You’ll learn to ask questions that separate the important from the mundane, and you’ll learn to solve problems. In short, you’ll learn to think.

Begin with curiosity.

Entrepreneurs and business owners learn to work quickly to provide solutions. In the market place, the emphasis is on answers and performing to a deadline, so it’s easy to bypass the thought process involved in asking high-quality questions. “Getting it done” is part of a strong work ethic; however, it can get in the way of the high-quality answers that come from a great question.

He taught his pupils to harness their curiosity by framing powerful questions. They designed experiments to uncover the mysteries of science, considered the impact of historical events by asking “what if ” to imagine alternative futures and discovered facts about one another through the art of interviewing. Mr. Stanish’s sixth-grade class shaped the worldview of countless students, including myself.

Eric, a business consultant and one of my mentors, describes a training he did with C-suite executives. The team was engaged in a brainstorming session and Jim, one of the executives, offered an idea. Eric said, “That’s a good idea.” Jim stood up and headed for the door. Eric asked, “Where are you going?” Jim said, “To get started. You said I’ve got a good idea.” “Yes, you do. What’s another good idea?” Jim came back to the table. The ideas deepened. Jim offered another idea, and Eric acknowledged it. Once again, Jim got up to leave the room, and Eric asked where he was going.

Jim said, “I’m implementing the idea. It’s better than the first one.” Eric said, “Yes, it is,” and “What’s another good idea?” More ideas emerged.

Finally, Jim seemed to listen more deeply. He became genuinely curious and began asking questions about how the new ideas being discussed might fit together. Forty minutes after Jim first stood to leave the room, the executive team came up with an idea they unanimously agreed to develop. It wasn’t the first or second good idea the team selected. Rather, it was an idea that emerged from curiosity and collaboration.

Albert Einstein said, “If I had an hour to solve a problem, I’d spend 55 minutes to find the right question, because then I’d be able to solve the problem in five minutes.”

HIGH-QUALITY QUESTIONS

Remember to ask, “What’s another good idea?”

Frame the question to open doors. Countless opportunities are hidden behind the doors we face in business and in life. The way you frame your questions determines which doors you open. What are your underlying assumptions? Do your questions increase your opportunities?

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What if asking the right questions is the key to unlocking the life you want?

Would you go for it?

“Getting it done” is part of a strong work ethic; however, it can get in the way of the high-quality answers that come from a great question.

Listen to the difference in these two questions: “What must I do to keep my business running while I’m on vacation?” versus “What can I do to go on vacation and close new business while I’m gone?” A Seattle realtor asked the second question and closed business on a four-day climb of Mt Rainier, with no cell coverage or access to her clients. In a demanding industry, she walked past the basic assumption of always needing to be on call to frame a question that delivered both freedom and success.

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Asking high-quality questions opens the door to uncommon results. Begin with a sense of curiosity. Notice your assumptions. Design your questions to create possibility and open the doors that are most important to you.

Deborah Olive Business-Life Coach Call 253.209.2528

“The quality of your life is a reflection of the quality of questions you ask.”

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LIFE & COMMUNITY HEART AND SOUL

SUMMER SOUNDS AT SKANSIE

PHOTO BY KELLY WILLIAMS

Live music in the park. By Colin Anderson

SUMMER IS TIME TO RELAX and enjoy long evenings with friends and family. It’s when festivals and celebrations pop up all over the region as we take advantage of warmer days and sunnier skies. Enjoying all that Downtown Gig Harbor has to offer is a great experience any night of the week—especially each Tuesday. Now through August 15, anyone traveling downtown on Tuesday night will be treated to the sounds of awesome local musicians through the annual Summer Sounds at Skansie.

With its waterfront and downtown setting, Skansie Brothers Park is the perfect backdrop to enjoy a relaxing evening, whether you’re just kicking off your night or wrapping it up. Concerts begin at 6:30pm and are free to the public thanks to sponsors CHI Franciscan Health and Harbor Hill.

Summer Music Lineup: July 4: 133rd Army National Guard Band Music.

Army.mil July 11: W ally and the Beaves TheWallys.net July 18: Th e Beatniks TheBeatniks.com July 25: J essica Lynne Jessica-Lynne.com August 1: B obby Sox and the Jukebox FunAddictsBand.com

Veterans of the concerts will place their chairs or blankets on the lawn the morning of, so if you want a spot up close, get to the park around 7am when you can start claiming your spot. Concertgoers are encouraged to ride the Gig Harbor Trolley to help alleviate parking issues. You can bring your own snacks and drinks, but please remember the park is both alcohol and smoke free. Returning this year is the popular restaurant delivery service allowing you to enjoy meals from many of your favorite downtown eateries without having to leave the show. Enjoy a wide range of musicians and some incredible evenings at Summer Sounds at Skansie.

GigHarborLivingLocal.com

August 8: Th e David Correa Group DavidCorreaAndCascada.com August 15: R anger & the ‘Re-Arrangers’ RangerSwings.com

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Beautiful

Keeping Gig Harbor

GigHarborLivingLocal.com

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PERHAPS ONE OF THE most difficult decisions I have ever made is to run for a government office. After all, I dedicated the last 30 years to running a successful jewelry business in the heart of downtown while volunteering as a member of the Downtown Merchants Association. I also spent over a decade building Peninsula Hands On Art, an art education program that now serves over 4,000 students in the greater Gig Harbor area.

My wife and I are now retired, we have two wonderful children, and a good life.

So why am I running for mayor?

I am running for mayor because I am passionate about Gig Harbor, and I want to preserve what drew my family to this spectacular town. I am motivated by my wife, my children, my friends and my community members who have encouraged me to step up and make a stand to stop the unmanaged growth that is over taxing our roads, our schools and our basic city services. Gig Harbor deserves elected city officials who are honest and transparent, who are responsive to community input and who manage growth in a way that will preserve our heritage. This is not happening with the current leadership.

Over the last 12 years we have seen tremendous development in Gig Harbor North and the Westside. New commercial and institutional uses include Albertson’s, Target, Home Depot, Costco, the YMCA and St. Anthony Hospital.

These big businesses have become a regional draw and have brought valuable amenities to our town. On the Westside, the new Uptown Shopping Center, Pt. Fosdick Center and a new Fred Meyers will continue to modernize the city. However, when most people hear our name, they think of our unique historic

character, our spectacular mountain views, natural evergreens and beautiful bay. If we agree that our history, maritime character, and natural beauty define this community, then protecting these assets for future generations is critical.

This is a paid advertisement and the views/ opinions expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect those of Gig Harbor Living Local or Living Local 360.

Kit Kuhn For Mayor KitKuhn4Mayor.com

While I support new residential and commercial development as necessary and tremendous assets for our community, growth must not be at the expense of our quality of life. As stewards of Gig Harbor, we owe it to future generations to limit traffic congestion, overcrowding of our schools and overdevelopment of our neighborhoods. I am running for mayor because I have a vision; one that will protect Gig Harbor as we know it and manage growth responsibly.

My vision includes mixed residential and commercial development in the downtown core that honors our maritime heritage and embraces our unique charm. A plan that includes more one-of-a-kind business as well as architecturally appropriate living spaces that integrate with the current historic feel of our small fishing village.

Currently our citizens are choked by traffic.

We must improve circulation by initiating infrastructure solutions throughout the city of Gig Harbor. This vision can be achieved by honest, transparent leadership that brings together seasoned professionals and community input. I am that leader, and I need your vote to make a change at City Hall. - Kit Kuhn Please remember to vote for mayor on November 7. For more information, go to KitKuhn4Mayor.com

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I am running for mayor because I am passionate about Gig Harbor and I want to preserve what drew my family to this wonderful town.

VIOLET BRIELLE SPATARO

GOOD NEWS

By Sarah Polyakov.

Photos by Julie Hirsch and Jeff Hall.

THE SUPERGIRL NEXT DOOR VIOLET’S JOURNEY IS ONE OF THE PUREST, MOST BEAUTIFUL EXPRESSIONS OF THIS SENSE OF POSSIBILITY I HAVE EVER EXPERIENCED. IN THE FACE OF LIFELONG STRUGGLES, SHE CHOOSES TO SEE THE LIGHT IN CIRCUMSTANCES AND IN PEOPLE.

“You are all superheroes. You don’t have to change yourself. You just need to take action and let your love shine through.” – Violet Spataro IF YOU HAVE EVER HAD the opportunity to meet Violet Spataro, you are left with the feeling that she is someone you will never forget. With a smile faster than a speeding bullet, she is able to melt your heart in a single bound; indeed, Violet has superpowers.

One of Violet’s superpowers is that she used her own cancer diagnosis and treatment to facilitate emotional healing in others. Through Violet’s non-profit, Live Love Foundation, she has been able to deliver Blessing Bundles that bring joy to other children suffering from cancer.

Others have also noticed that Violet is a superhero. Recently, Violet and several other children were featured in the documentary “Look to the Sky.” This film tells the story of everyday superheroes who come in small

packages. Director Brett Culp noted, “Our new film ‘Look to the Sky’ is about hope.

Hope is the ability to see beyond the realities of the moment and instead see the possibility.

It looks past what is and sees what could be.

Violet’s journey is one of the purest, most beautiful expressions of this sense of possibility I have ever experienced. In the face of lifelong struggles, she chooses to see the light in circumstances and in people. Her innocent way of sharing that light with the world is an inspiration. I’m a better person after spending time with her, and I think audiences will have that same experience with her in ‘Look to the Sky.’” Violet’s most well-known superpower is her ability to love others in tangible ways through the gift of giving. “Violet says that her superpower is love. I agree with that statement

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100 percent. I see God’s love shine through Violet every day,” said Shenay Spataro, Violet’s mom. “She is an overcomer, encourager, a giver and a best friend to the child she just meets.

Violet has a profound and pure love in her heart, and others are drawn to it and to her like a magnet. People write in to us daily to let us know how Violet has inspired them to be more joyful, to persevere and to keep the faith.” Undeniably, Violet is a warrior for joy, and nothing can put out the light within her.

Shenay recounted one of her most memorable experiences that resulted from the delivery of a Blessing Bundle. “Each and every delivery to a child is a very special one. There was a very impactful moment on one of Violet’s Blessing Bundle deliveries this past year. Violet was visiting Masen Lopes, of Gig Harbor, who was battling a brain tumor, anaplastic astrocytoma.

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Prior to arriving, Masen’s mom had let us know that he had really been wanting the game Uno Attack, but they had been unable to find it in any of the stores. When I shared this with Violet, she immediately said, ‘We need to find it for him!’ When Violet gave Masen his Blessing Bundle, they opened the game and played it together. They were smiling and giggling, and it was a beautiful moment in time. Masen’s mom later shared with me that Masen had not smiled or sat up in days before that moment with Violet. We were so thankful. Their bond was very very sweet. ” Look to the Sky premiered at the Tampa Theatre on April 8. This was Violet’s first time seeing herself on the big screen, and she was able, literally, to see the bigger picture of her work. As a result, Violet experienced many emotions. Shenay noted, “She was so happy and excited to see herself on the big screen for the first time. In Violet’s segment, she delivers Blessing Bundles to three children. Two of them have since passed, and she misses them. Seeing some of their moments playing together on screen made her happy and sad at the same time; happy to be able to see them again and sad that they are no longer here with us. That night, Violet told me that she will play with them again someday in Heaven.”

Still, Violet remains committed to her cause because loving others and giving back is her nature. Violet’s Live Love Foundation recently obtained its 501(c)(3) status, and her organization is growing. Shenay reported the good news: “Now, all donations are tax-deductible, and that opens so many more doors for us to receive support and bless more children. Since we began, Violet has delivered or shipped Blessing Bundles to 514 children. Currently, we are averaging at least 10 requests a month.”

HAVEN’T MET VIOLET YET? NO WORRIES! VIOLET REGULARLY STARS IN APPEARANCES ON “THE ELLEN SHOW” AND IN HER ELLENTUBE ORIGINAL SERIES “OUT OF THE BOX WITH VIOLET.” SHE ALSO HAS PLANS THAT INCLUDE A PILOT EPISODE SHOOT IN LA FOR A NEW TELEVISION SERIES AND A SHOOT FOR A FEATURE FILM IN MONTANA.

But, the best news is, Violet Spataro is now officially a cancer survivor.

Violet’s family acknowledges that they could not have done it without the support of those in our community. Shenay concluded, “Gig Harbor is a very special place to live. We have felt so much love and support throughout our hardship of overcoming childhood cancer. Violet has been embraced as a little local celebrity and it is just the sweetest and kindest thing. We are so grateful for our community.”

Haven’t met Violet yet? No worries! Violet regularly stars in appearances on “The Ellen Show” and in her Ellentube original series “Out of the Box with Violet.” She also has plans that include a pilot episode shoot in LA for a new television series and a shoot for a feature film in Montana.

Live Love Foundation is always in need of more donors/supporters so that children’s needs can be met. If you would like to know more, please visit any of the following: Live Love Foundation website: WeLiveLove.org Violet’s social media: Facebook: Violet Brielle Spataro Instagram: @violetbriellespataro Twitter: @violetbrielle

GigHarborLivingLocal.com

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62+ years and a homeowner?

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Check out how an FHA• mortgage Supplement retirement payment AND Insured Reverse income toa make IRA or establish line Mortgage ofyour credit last longer** could help you… payments* receive monthly

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7901 Skansie 200 & 205 7901 Skansie Avenue, Suites Suite 200 NMLS #91708 Gig Harbor, WA Gig Harbor, WA 98335 98335 **This does not constitute financial planning MikeE@fairwaymc.com dtaylor@fairwaymc.com advice.

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Fax: 866-428-2169 regarding your specific retirement plan.

7901 Skansie Avenue, Suites 200 & 205 *Must live in your home and pay taxes, Gig Harbor, WA 98335 Copyright©2016 Fairway Independent insuranceMortgage and maintenance.

Corporation (“Fairway”) dtaylor@fairwaymc.com NMLS#2289. 4801 S. Biltmore Lane, www.TayloredHomeLoans.com TM

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Madison, WI 53718, 1-877-699-0353. All rights considered income and will not affect Social Copyright©2016 Independent Mortgage reserved.

Fairway is Fairway not is not affiliated with Copyright©2016 Fairway Independent Security or Medicare benefits.

Your monthly Corporation (“Fairway”) NMLS#2289.

4801 S. Biltmore any government These materials are Mortgage agencies.

Corporation reverse advances may (“Fairway”) affect your Lane,mortgage Madison, WI 53718, 1-877-699-0353.

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GIG HARBOR IN FOCUS

EASTSIDE BABY CORNER Helping kids reach their full potential tomorrow by meeting basic needs today

By Colin Anderson

HELPING THESE STRUGGLING FAMILIES KEEP A CHILD SAFE, FED AND WARM GOES A TREMENDOUS WAY TOWARD CREATING A STRONG FAMILY ENVIRONMENT IN WHICH A CHILD CAN THRIVE INSTEAD OF JUST SURVIVE.

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GIG HARBOR’S

BY THE #S 1 in 10

The number of people living in North Kitsap and Pierce counties who receive assistance.

5&6

The size diapers EBC is most in need of.

12% The percentage of families living below the poverty line.

POVERTY EXISTS in areas you would not expect: Whether you are in Gig Harbor or on Bainbridge Island, there are families who can’t make ends meet. This is what Bob Maynard and Barbara Bandoli want you to know about your communities. The pair was writing grants for the Eastside Baby Corner (EBC), an organization that since 1990 has been helping feed, clothe and keep safe children across King County, when they decided the greater Gig Harbor area could use a branch specific to the West Sound. Bob and Barbara were at a benefit luncheon in the fall of 2014 in Issaquah when the speaker asked a question that would change their lives: “We know the EBC model works; so why are there not more Baby Corners in this world?”

“We were both compelled by the speaker’s words to form a branch of EBC to serve our community, which encompasses Gig Harbor and the Key Peninsula, up to Hood Canal,” said Barbara.

For those unfamiliar with the Eastside Baby Corner, its work and messaging is very straightforward. Local nurse Karen Ridlon was concerned about the number of babies in her practice who did not have adequate food, clothing, bedding and other necessary supplies. Since the early ‘90s, the EBC has gone from gathering a few items for distribution to becoming one of the major distributors of children’s goods in greater Seattle. There is a diaper bank, clothing bank and food source that serves around 800 children each week. Seeing so many vulnerable children is what helped push Bob and Barbara into creating the West Sound chapter about two and a half years ago.

“Fundamentally it was the mission: EBC helps kids reach their full potential tomorrow by meeting basic needs today. And as a parent/ grandparent, we know just how costly it is to give a child what they need,” said Bob. Added Barbara, “We believe that kids need to be

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PHOTOS COURTESY BOB MAYNARD

able to start life on a level playing field, no matter what their family circumstance. And we feel that the EBC way of making that happen—that is, by partnering with social service agencies to help their clients—is a unique and brilliant way to help solve the problem.”

As word continues to spread about the work the West Sound chapter of EBC does for the community, the number of individuals, families and businesses wanting to help is also increasing.

Anytime a new non-profit agency comes into a community, it is a lot of work not only reaching the people who need help through networking, but finding volunteers dedicated to the cause and people willing to donate goods, money or time. Bob and Barbara have high praise for the Gig Harbor Kiwanis, which they say has been instrumental in helping with their outreach: “The Gig Harbor Kiwanis Club is representative of the type of community support we envision going forward. This club has almost literally adopted EBC – West Sound in the year this branch has been open. They’ve given us cash to purchase items that kids need the most, and they sponsored our annual fundraising event.

They furnish us with bikes and trikes which have been refurbished by the Women’s Correctional Center in Purdy, and they continue to supply us with batteries so the kids will get toys that work.

They connect us to the community. A Kiwanis member who sponsors the Builders Club at

KPMS arranged to have the club hold a “doll spa” for over 50 dolls that needed some TLC; the same Kiwanian volunteers every Thursday to work on safety checking items that may have been recalled; another Kiwanian spends her weekends working the garage-sale scene to find garagesale families who may want to donate the kids’ stuff they don’t sell; and another Kiwanian who sponsors a Key Club at Gig Harbor High School will have her club make blankets for babies we serve at EBC – West Sound. This is one example of a way that the Gig Harbor community can get involved in helping young children in our community not just survive, but thrive.”

People can help out in many ways. They can volunteer at the warehouse in Bremerton to help sort items, pull orders and maintain inventory.

The warehouse is open on Mondays 6 to 8pm, Thursdays 9 to 11am and Saturdays 9am to noon.

The warehouse is located at 1463 NE Dawn Road in Bremerton. Interested individuals can register to volunteer online at BabyCorner.org/ EBC-West-Sound. People can also talk to their friends about volunteering—spread the word!

One good way to do that is to go to the EBC – West Sound’s Facebook page at Facebook.com/ EBCWestSound and “like” it and “share it,” as well as like and share individual postings on the Facebook page as well.

Another way people can show support is by donating goods. Anything a child could need

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is accepted, from cothing, toys and hard goods like high chairs and pack n plays, as long as they are in good “baby clean” condition. People can also donate money, which helps EBC purchase the essentials children need but that are not often donated in large quantities. These items include car seats, diapers and formula. Community members have also held donation drives at their church, home or business to help out as well.

Some of the items that EBC is always in need of are diapers—particularly size 5 and 6, shoes of all sizes and strollers.

As Eastside Baby Corner continues to grow and expand, the board is sharing their success with other communities across the country. The hope is to continue to expand the idea and create new chapters further out from King County.

About one in 10 people living in Kitsap and North Pierce County receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and 12 percent of families with children in these areas are living below the poverty line. Helping these struggling families keep a child safe, fed and warm goes a tremendous way toward creating a strong family environment in which a child can thrive instead of just survive. If you have time or funds to give, or are ready to let go of the old baby clothes, shoes, stroller or car seat, partner with Eastside Baby Corner, and your donations will help improve lives for your neighbors.

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T 00000 T 00000 T 00000 T 00000

— ARTICLE BY

Patty Hutchens —

Investing in the Future Hawks Scholarship Fund awards more than $300,000 to graduating seniors

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hoosing a career path is a difficult decision for many, no matter what your age. Passion versus practical often plays into the decision. But for one Peninsula High School graduate, receiving a scholarship from the local company, Allovus, affirmed her decision to follow her heart. Described as a creative individual, the young woman is excited about what the future holds.

In a thank you note received by Hayley Nichols, owner of Allovus, the graduate expressed gratitude for the affirmation she received and how the money would help her to achieve her goal. “Thank you for believing in me and my dreams. I can’t express how much that means to me,” she wrote.

This is just one of many lives that were influenced by the generosity of individuals and businesses in the community who support the graduates of Peninsula High School through the Hawks Scholarship Fund. Since it was first established in 1984, the Hawks Scholarship Fund has grown throughout the years.

This year, 175 students out of the 320 graduating seniors submitted applications in the form of “notebooks” for consideration.

By the end of the ceremony, nearly 400 scholarships had been awarded to support students on the journey to their next level of education, whether it’s a four-year university or a technical school.

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“The scholarships totaled $320,000,” said Nichols, adding that a total of 107 businesses donated to the fund. Included in the $320,000 were 27 SAVE individual scholarships awarded from funds raised at the SAVE Thrift Store.

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Nichols is grateful for the opportunity to support the students of Peninsula High School. She and the other donors have received numerous thank you notes from the recipients, and it’s what tugs at their hearts to continue to provide support to the youth.

“All are incredibly grateful and thoughtful,” she said.

Photos by Martina Dalton

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LIVING LOCAL

Champs!

ABOVE Left: Safeco Field on game day.

Right: A GHHS player excited to play.

Baseball title returns to Gig Harbor High School

By Colin Anderson. Photos by Jim Tisch.

ot a single 2017 Gig Harbor Varsity baseball player was alive the last time the state title found its way to the trophy case, but 20 years later, a special group has once again brought the championship home for the Tides. With a 5-1 victory over Southridge in front of boisterous fans at Safeco Field, the dream season was complete. For a program that’s a perennial favorite, the wait seemed like an eternity, but, at the beginning of the 2017 season, just about everyone thought this team might have a real strong chance to stop the drought.

Head coach Pete Jansen has been at the helm for 28 seasons and alongside him for the last 17 is pitching Coach Larry Carlson. The pair has created and refined ‘the process,’ something they drive into their players’ heads each practice from the first day they put on the jersey.

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Route 101 Trolley service has returned to Gig Harbor!

June - September 4, 2017 For details visit piercetransit.org or call 253.581.8000

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

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

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

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

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

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

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RIGHT Every play was important in this win.

RIGHT The team showed incredible growth as they set high goals and striked to achieve them.

“It’s simple,” explained Carlson. “Come to practice every day, buy into the process, and the results will speak for themselves.”

at age 7. Schmidt said she’s seen this team grow from kids making friends to a team built upon strong bonds and relationships.

failure. Good hitters fail seven out of 10 times, and you have to learn from your failures, make a plan and compete.”

‘The Process’ involves identifying strong pitchers from a young age and separating them from fielders and hitters during practice to really focus on their craft. This paid off in the form of seven quality arms this season including three aces at the top: seniors Avery Jones, Logan Gerling and Patrick Fredrickson.

The trio was instrumental in leading the team to a 24-4 overall record and State Championship.

“They are such close friends. When one is not having a good day, his teammate picks him up.

As a team, these boys have been through parents divorcing, beloved grandparents passing, challenges with peer pressure and yet, through it all, they lifted each other up and remained brothers, teammates and champions.”

With goals set high each year, one might think that this is a smile free zone of 100-percent focused individuals, but that’s not the program run by Jansen and Carlson. Players are encouraged to participate in other sports, and one of the team mantras is “Let’s go out and have fun tonight.” That looseness was proven to be true when the team faced its biggest adversity of the season when they fell down eight runs to Lakeside early in the playoffs. For a team that relied so heavily on its top-notch pitching, it would have been easy for them to fold, but instead they came together and rallied to an improbable 10-9 comeback win. Avery Jones appeared early in the game, striking

For many of these players, this day started long before getting their driver’s license. Angie Schmidt, whose son Johnny played multiple positions his senior year, remembers when many from this group began playing together

The competition to get on the varsity team is intense, and it takes maturity and the willingness to be coached, learn and adapt to continue improving as a Gig Harbor High player. “Players need to know how to have a positive attitude when dealing with failure,” said Coach Jansen. “Baseball is a game of

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GO TIDES!

Congratulations Gig Harbor High School baseball team for your 3 A Division State Championship at Safeco Field! We are honored to sponsor our local Gig Harbor team’s championship rings!

AN EMOTIONAL WIN AFTER THE FINAL PITCH AT SAFECO The bats were hot on the run to the Championship...

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out eight of the 14 batters he faced. With the tying run on first and nobody out, Jones told the coaching staff he had one more inning in him, came back to the mound and promptly struck out the side to end the game. “After that game, the club house was so loose, our kids told me we can beat anyone and this is a team of destiny,” said Coach Carlson.

Destiny did in fact lead them to Safeco Field, and the senior pitching staff allowed just a single run to complete the epic season. “We were all screaming and crying and laughing all at the same time. Baseball moms are known to be crazy, but we were completely out of our minds and in another universe,” recalled Schmidt.

The students and Gig Harbor community were out in force with the K cards, and Coach Carlson compared the atmosphere to that of a Friday night football game.

“It was amazing how full our student section was at Safeco. That student body is no doubt a huge part of the team’s success. The boys wouldn’t have done it without them,” said Schmidt.

Added Coach Jansen: “It was an exciting ride for everyone; an experience that they will remember forever.”

A talented group of seniors is moving on and, incredibly, just about all will be playing ball at the next level. Another group will take their place next season with the same goal in mind, but when you graduate, the story doesn’t end. Many former players were in the stands cheering on the team during state, several of the local teams Gig Harbor played this year were coached by former players, and Coach Carlson even employs three former players at his insurance agency. ‘The Process’ not only creates an outstanding baseball program year in and year out, but a bond amongst teammates that carries them far past high school and into their adult lives.

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AMERICAN FAMILY INSURANCE

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.

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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.

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WILLIAMS TREE & STUMP REMOVAL

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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

Health & Lifestyle M Y M A R AT H O N J O U R N E Y

Running Strong

By Matt Thompson, Running Coach, Better Gym IN THE DAYS OF ANCIENT GREECE, a man named Pheidippides ran 25 miles to Athens from a city named Marathon to declare victory against the dreaded Persian army. Upon this declaration, he fell down and died. Thus the tradition of the marathon was born. Nowadays, we don’t see people dropping dead after the marathon, but that doesn’t change the fact it is still one of the greatest tests of human skill, determination and fortitude. It is estimated that only about 1 percent of the U.S. population will complete a marathon and for some is the sign that you are an established distance runner.

The allure and acclaim of the marathon make it an enticing target for many runners and athletes in general to attempt. However, many people

decide not to even try running a marathon due to the amount of training required and the toll that it can put on the body. Most beginner marathon plans require 30 to 40 miles per week, and some intermediate plans have weekly mileage in the 50s and higher. There have been multiple studies that show increased mileage increases your risk for injury. But, I don’t believe that the decision to run a marathon also has to be a prescription for running injury.

One of the biggest problems I see in consistently injured runners is even though they could be good runners (when healthy) they are not good athletes. They can run a sub six-minute mile with ease, but if you ask them to do balance drills or a set of pull ups they will fail those tasks. Jay

H E A LT H Y T I P

Eat the Right Amount of Calories Balance the energy you consume Eat the right amount of calories for how active you are so that you balance the energy you consume with the energy you use. If you eat or drink too much, you'll put on weight. If you eat and drink too little, you'll lose weight.

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Gig Harbor Chiropractic & Massage Dicharry, author of Anatomy for Runners, describes the runner’s body like a car: You can upgrade the engine (cardiovascular system) all you want, but if your chassis (musculoskeletal system) is made of scrapped-together pieces, it is inevitable that the car will need to head to the repair shop (doctor) at some point in time. The goal for anyone aspiring to complete the marathon should to start by becoming a better athlete before becoming a better runner.

My path to becoming a better athlete came through a general physical preparedness (GPP) strength program with an emphasis in kettlebells. GPP is an exercise program that targets all major muscle groups as well as working stabilizers with both dynamic and static exercises—in layman’s terms, just about a little bit of everything. As the name implies, the goal is to get you ready for just about anything. The bonus with this program came from the kettlebells. Unlike other strength programs, kettlebells are known for having a greater amount of a muscular endurance and even an aerobic element. Also, the most popular exercises for kettlebell focus on connecting your kinetic chain (a fancy way of saying ‘work your core’) and strengthening your posterior chain (glutes and hamstrings), both significantly important things for runners to work on. Any GPP program should be helpful to runners, but I felt like this one was the best for me.

My workouts during the week included three strength sessions and three running sessions, some of them on overlapping days. Each

strength session had a different emphasis like skill building or general strength. Each run day was different as well, using both tempo and long runs consistently. While this sounds like a lot of exercise, I probably spent about two hours less a week exercising than if I had only chosen to run. In addition, the variety of exercise kept me interested in training and helped me avoid feeling burned out. If I was having a bad running week, I could just hit it hard in the gym and vice versa. Not only did I get stronger than before, I was able to run hills with ease, feel stable and confident toward the end of my long runs and increase my speed. This isn’t to say I never felt any pain ever during my training, but I wouldn’t say I was ever injured. I think a lot of that had to do with the well-rounded training plan I was using.

Every runner has different training philosophies, but I think the principle remains: Good athletes make stronger, better and less-injured runners. I felt that my training allowed me to have the best and most enjoyable first marathon experience available. If you decide to attempt the marathon, don’t end up like Pheidippides, and start by making yourself a better athlete with GPP. Matt Thompson is the running coach at Better Gym and the assistant manager at Route 16 Running & Walking. His gym training was the Small Group Practice classes held daily at Better Gym in Gig Harbor. He ran his first marathon in June at the Seattle Rock n’ Roll with a time of 3:36:24.

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WHAT’S AFFECTING YOUR LIFE?

IS THE “TIME OF CHANGE” CAUSING YOU STRESS? PROTECTING YOUR TEETH AND YOUR INVESTMENT DURING THE “SUMMER OF CHANGE”

BY RHONDA SAVAGE, DDS MY MOM IS NOW living with us. My dad is in long-term care. My niece just passed. And we decided to downsize this summer, putting our house on the market. This is the summer of change. To add to the issue, I’m a major clencher. Between you and me, my cheek muscles are the only muscles that get regular exercise on a daily basis.

What’s affecting your life? Retirement, job changes, family needs or personal stress can all lead to a breakdown of your teeth. Why does this matter?

When you clench and/or grind, you flex your teeth in an outward movement. This leads to stress on the enamel/root interface. Did you know that if you clench during the day, you generate 10 to 20 times the pressure on your teeth during the night? This is especially true when you’re in a deep sleep process. This breakdown can lead to costly dentistry.

Here are the best preventive tools dentists have in their arsenal.

1. Keep getting cavities? Night guards will help protect your teeth while you sleep. Outward jaw movement breaks the cement bond of the crown to the tooth. Then bacteria (which are totally opportunistic) say, “Yay!” And you have decay under your existing dentistry, even if you don’t feel discomfort.

2. Do you have wear on your front teeth? Do you want to keep from having crowns or

Retirement, job changes, family needs or personal stress can all lead to a breakdown of your teeth. veneers? Get used to a night guard. Have you tried this and can’t wear it? Call your dentist for a deprogrammer process to stop the vicious cycle of tooth wear.

3. Sugar patrol! Watch the frequent carb intake. Bacteria that cause decay love carbohydrates, which of course are more than ‘just candy.’ Watch out for bread, crackers, desserts, alcohol and more. It’s not that you can’t have this awesome tasty treat; you just need to limit the frequency.

Also, cough drops, breath mints, power drinks, sipping on a latte … these all lead to decay.

4. Consider preventive measures: prescription fluoride toothpaste or a natural xylitol toothpaste.

5. See your dentist regularly! The bacteria that cause root cavities—and this can

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happen from 40 years old and onward— causes rampant destruction quickly! I’ve seen significant destruction even in a sixto 12-month period in some patients.

6. Dry mouth and medications can cause issues with your teeth, as can snoring and sleep apnea. Did you know that if you’re gasping for air, you can volatize your stomach acid and cause cavities?

7. Arthritis? Consider the Philips Sonicare products (Sonicare brushes and the AirFloss) to get the food out from between your teeth. They are the best on the market.

8. Not flossing? No worries! Don’t feel badly.

When asking my patients how often they floss, one replied, “Ha!” Another said, “The week before I see my dentist!” ninety-five percent of Americans either don’t floss or don’t do it well. There are alternatives: Butler Soft Picks, the Airfloss and Sonicare brushes.

Change happens. We need to shift and change.

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At Uptown Dental we have solutions that eliminate pain, let you relax and actually enjoy your visit to the dentist.

Say goodbye to your fears‌ we can make you smile again!

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HURTING MORE THAN FEELINGS HEARING LOSS IS LINKED TO ACCELERATED COGNITIVE DECLINE

BY DEANNA IFF, AU.D., CCC-A WRITTEN FOR HEAR FOR LIFE AUDIOLOGY AS THE POPULATION of the United States and other industrialized nations ages, the prevalence of dementia is projected to double every 20 years. Approximately 5 million older Americans have been diagnosed with some form of dementia, and this number is expected to triple by 2050 unless more effective methods of mitigating cognitive deterioration can be developed. The prevalence of hearing loss is also increasing with the “graying� of the population, with approximately one in three adults between 65 and 74 currently experiencing hearing loss, and the number of individuals with hearing loss is expected to double by 2060. These statistics underscore the need to address both dementia and hearing loss as important issues in public health.

A study published in 2013 by Dr. Frank Lin of Johns Hopkins followed 1,984 older adults who were enrolled in a prospective health study.

The participants were all community-dwelling adults who were between the ages of 70 and 79 at the beginning of the study. By completing regular audiometric (hearing) evaluations and cognitive testing over the duration of the study, the researchers could identify trends in hearing loss and cognitive decline. This information was then analyzed to determine whether hearing loss was associated with accelerated cognitive decline.

The results of the study demonstrated that hearing loss is independently associated with accelerated cognitive decline and incident cognitive impairment in community-dwelling older adults. Those individuals with hearing loss had a 30- to 40-percent faster decline in cognitive function, and a 24-percent greater risk of incident cognitive impairment than did those participants with normal hearing. A decline

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in cognitive function is defined as reduced scores on measures of cognitive function, with incident cognitive impairment being scores reduced below a point indicative of a probable dementia diagnosis.

It has previously been suggested that hearing loss may be associated with cognitive decline or dementia through the mechanisms of cognitive load and/or social isolation. There is evidence that greater cognitive resources are devoted to hearing when auditory information is degraded, such as with hearing loss, which reduces the amount of brainpower available for other tasks.

Social isolation and loneliness, which are also known side effects of hearing loss, particularly untreated hearing loss, have also been linked to an increased risk of dementia in older adults.

It is possible that using appropriately fitted and programmed hearing devices could help reduce the rate of cognitive decline for older adults with hearing loss; however, research regarding the impact of amplification is ongoing and there is no definitive answer yet. Wellestablished, though, are the benefits of hearing aids on communication. By improving speech understanding, appropriately programmed hearing devices can reduce the negative effects hearing loss has on cognitive load and minimize the risk of social isolation resulting from difficulty understanding conversation.

It is important to remember that hearing-loss treatment is a complex process, and, contrary to popular belief, involves far more than simply turning up the volume or putting on a hearing aid. In the interest of maintaining the highest possible quality of life with advancing age, consider visiting your local audiologist for a hearing evaluation and discussion of options.

H E A LT H Y T I P IS YOUR FAMILY STAYING SUN SAFE?

POLARIZING EYE CARE

SIMPLE PRACTICES TO PROTECT YOUR SKIN ARTICLE COURTESY OF CASCADE EYE & SKIN CENTERS

WITH THE DOG DAYS OF SUMMER upon us and another school year here and gone, there’s a good chance your family will be spending more time outdoors during these warm summer months. Sun protection is key to an enjoyable summer and a bright, healthy future for all South Sound families.

We’ve all heard the advice about protecting our skin from the harsh rays of the sun, but all too often we hurry out the door and forget to pack sunscreen and other sun-safety necessities.

There are a few simple practices that can be added to your family’s daily routine to safeguard against the harmful effects of the sun. Know your sunscreen and how to apply it. There are two types of UV light that can harm your skin—UVA and UVB. UVA rays can prematurely age your skin, causing wrinkling and age spots, while UVB rays can burn your skin. Too much exposure to UVA or UVB rays can cause skin cancer.

The best sunscreen offers protection from all UV light. Kimberly A. Wenner, M.D., dermatologist of Cascade Eye & Skin Centers, recommends using a broad-spectrum sunscreen (protecting from both types of rays) with SPF 30 or higher. “It is extremely important to apply an adequate sunscreen before going outside, and it is equally important to reapply every two hours, more if water activities are involved,” she states.

Protective clothing plays a key role in preventing sun burns, which are proven to cause long-term skin damage. Widebrim hats and long pants and sleeves made from tightly woven fabric can keep out the damaging rays of the sun. They can be used in conjunction with sunscreen for the best sun protection. Numerous options of UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) clothing are

available in many stores and online. UV protection goes beyond the skin; wearing polarized sunglasses as a preventative measure to maintain the health of your eyes is recommended for outdoor activities, not just in the summer months, but year round.

“Eye sun safety is often overlooked, but it is equally important to protect your eyes from the harmful effects of the sun as it is your skin. Many of the eye problems we treat could have been prevented or lessened if proper precautionary measures had been taken,” according to Keith F. Dahlhauser, M.D., ophthalmologist. Schedule a visit with your ophthalmologist if you notice changes with your eyes, sun-related or not.

because quality of life is earned.

Staying hydrated, from the inside out, is especially important on hot days. Don’t skimp on your water intake, as eight glasses per day can help to prevent serious conditions such as dehydration and heat exhaustion. Soak up the shade. Of course fun in the sun is nice, but it’s also important to give children plenty of shady options to choose from. Schedule indoor lunch, games or other activities when the sun’s rays are the strongest, between 10am and 4pm. Schedule a visit with your dermatologist if you notice any suspicious, new or changing moles.

253.225.4037

As the largest organ in your body, your skin deserves your attention. Developing a healthy skincare regimen early in life is ideal, but it is never too late to begin. If you’re not sure where to start, schedule a visit with your dermatologist today.

Drs. Kimberly A. Wenner, M.D. and Keith F. Dahlhauser, M.D. practice at Cascade Eye & Skin Centers. For additional information, visit CascadeEyeSkin.com or any of their six South Sound locations. 253.848.3000.

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INDIVIDUAL TREATMENT PLANS

GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR DOCTOR APPOINTMENT THREE TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL VISIT

BY DAVID ANGELL, DC, CONVERGENT THERAPIES, LLC

The key factor in having a great appointment is having a great relationship with your doctor.

MOST PEOPLE ARE NOT EXCITED to go to the doctor. However, it is important to make the most out of each visit. The key factor in having a great appointment is having a great relationship with your doctor. He or she should be someone who you trust to recognize the signs and symptoms when something is wrong.

If you don’t find that trust with one doctor, try others until you find a good fit. Keep in mind, it is challenging to build a strong relationship if you only visit the doctor when you are sick.

Here are three ways that you can maximize each doctor’s visit.

1. Ask yourself why you should go to the doctor. Reasons can vary from “I have diabetes” to “My mother and aunt both died of aggressive breast cancer” to “I want to live the healthiest life I can!” These examples are all valid and important reasons to go to the doctor. Check in with all the different parts of your body and write down things that have been bothering you or causing suspicion. Knowing why you are going will help you with the next step.

2. Come up with questions before you arrive.

Always ask questions at the beginning, and don’t bother being embarrassed. Doctors run on strict schedules. If you wait until the end of the visit to ask your questions, you will likely get a very rushed or unsatisfying answer that results in scheduling another appointment to get your additional questions answered.

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3. Understand your insurance policy. If you plan to use your insurance, make sure you know what is specifically covered in your policy with any new provider or procedure.

While a specific treatment or procedure may be covered in your policy, the price may vary or the procedure may only be covered when done by a specific practitioner. You also need to know your deductible, co-insurance and/or co-pay, annual limit and whether the doctor is in network. Knowing these things makes the financial side much smoother.

These days, there is a lot of debate as to how often people need to come in for so-called wellness visits. There was an expectation for a long time that everyone needed to have an annual physical, certain procedures were done and that was that. Now, physicians are trained to create individual treatment plans for each of their patients to come in regularly and order tests to check for potential problems. It is important to discuss with your doctor how often you should be scheduling visits. For those of you who raise the issue of the time or cost involved in going to the doctor, remember that your health is an investment that always pays for itself.

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Heroes Helping

HEROES

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LOCAL COMMUNITIES SUPPORTING AND ASSISTING OUR HOME HEROES

By Zoey Taylor and Jillian Chandler. Photos courtesy of the Gig Harbor Police Department and Diane Fetzner.

“A hero is someone who has given his or her life to something bigger than oneself.” - Joseph Campbell Life can change in the blink of an eye; a calm day can quickly turn into dark storm. Heroes arrive in multiple forms to calm the storm. They do not come wearing capes, but a uniform accompanied by lights and sirens. Occasionally they extinguish fires structural or forest, or they could be giving lifesaving treatment to someone in need.

First responders choose to put the lives of their community members before their own. They are the ones who run toward the chaos when everyone else is running away. They are courageous despite fear and the unknown.

A hero is one who is admired for their courage. Frequently heroes are known as those dressed in uniforms arriving with lights and sirens, but there are heroes who are dressed in plain clothing. They are the heroes who help the heroes.

Keith Boe, of North Idaho Life, is one of those everyday people making a difference in the world. This spring, North Idaho Life surprised a local combat veteran marine—who was deploying within days—to his dream. He didn’t ask for much; he wanted to have a memorable day on Priest Lake, Idaho, with his family. The members of North Idaho Life not only raised the money for the fishing trip, but exceeded the amount necessary.

The excess money went for a dinner for the family at Trinity in Sandpoint, Idaho. The family was so moved by the outpouring of generosity, they invited their fishing guide, Rich Lindsey, to join them for their last dinner until

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he returns from his deployment. Lindsey not only joined them for dinner but is now an honorary member of the family.

According to Boe, if the group can do something for someone else in need, a special time together that will create lasting memories, or bless them, then he will not hesitate to pull out all the stops to make it happen.

Hard times don’t create heroes. It is during the hard times when the “hero” within us is revealed. - Bob Riley Sometimes the hero is at the right place at the right time.

On January 17, 2017, in Bonner County, Marsha Hanna was out walking her horses. She took them up the mountain by her home when gunshots rang out. Living in North Idaho, Hanna assumed that the shots were from target practice.

“Looking back, the sounds were different,” stated Hanna.

Continuing up the hill, as she rounded a corner, an officer came out of a driveway. At first glance, she could tell something was not right. He looked disheveled and she noticed that his radio was dangling from his side. The injured officer told Hanna to get back, and this is when she became the hero for the heroes. Hanna informed the injured officer of her training, as she was an emergency room nurse at Sacred Heart Medical Center. The officer then asked for assistance and Hanna’s instincts took over.

WHAT IT TAKES A hero is one who is admired for their courage. Frequently heroes are known as those dressed in uniforms arriving with lights and sirens, but there are heroes who are dressed in plain clothing. They are the heroes who help the heroes.

Moments later, a patrol car arrives to Hanna’s location with another injured officer. After quickly assessing the situation, she realized that she did not have the required tools to aid them.

She instructed the driver to a nearby neighbor’s home, where they could be safely evaluated and wait for emergency medical services.

Once at her neighbors, her 12-year medical career set into high gear. She quickly realized that one of the officers needed medevacked and had a helicopter called in. She applied pressure to the officers’ wounds; each had three gunshot wounds.

The two Bonner County Sheriff deputies were shot while trying to arrest a man with a warrant in Blanchard, Idaho. The first deputy that Hanna met on the road required surgery.

After the surgery, the deputy called her and asked her to come meet his family.

“They deserve the thank you … not me,” said Hanna.

“Heroes are made by the paths they choose, not the powers they are graced with.” - Brodi Ashton, Everneath

the car. Kind citizens stood watch next to the car, assuring Mom she would be OK and that her son was doing fine and now safe.

On a Tuesday afternoon this past June, officers responded to a rollover accident on Government Way in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.

Nothing was unordinary about this call, as traffic accidents are one of the many aspects of the job that police officers are prepared for.

But this day was a bit different. When officers arrived at the scene, they were met by a group of bystanders who had stepped in to help those involved in the accident while they were waiting for help to arrive. Ordinary citizens, who could have continued on their way, took action and became the heroes that afternoon.

As if that wasn’t enough, others had taken charge to help prevent any further accidents, controlling and directing traffic while they waited for officers to get there and take over.

One group, which included a nurse, had worked together to help remove a 6-year-old boy from the overturned vehicle. They successfully removed him, assessed him for injuries and comforted and waited with this brave little boy until Dad arrived, as Mom was still trapped in

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Not one of these people was forced to intercede and help this family in trouble. They chose to assist them, out of the goodness of their souls and kindness of their hearts. Each individual was a hero that day, acting selflessly to ensure the safety of strangers in their community.

“A hero is somebody who voluntarily walks into the unknown.” - Tom Hanks It can be the simple things that can say so much. On June 23, 2017, the Sandpoint community came together to show their appreciation as Sandpoint’s Luther Park hosted its Hugs for Heroes Barbecue to thank all first

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responders and veterans. Firefighters, EMTs, veterans, police and sheriff departments were all invited and honored at the event in a show of appreciation from the local community.

“I think a hero is any person really intent on making this a better place for all people.” - Maya Angelou For those of you in the Hope, Idaho, area and who would like to show your appreciation for Sam Owen Fire District and Fire Chief Bob Wathen, there will be a Pancake Breakfast July 22 at the Sam Owen Fire Station No. 1.

Attendees will enjoy a delicious hot breakfast of pancakes, eggs, sausage, biscuits and gravy, and

juice coffee or tea served 7:30am until 11am, all for only $5 for adults and $2.50 for kids under 12. This is the major community event and only fundraiser for the Sam Owen Fire District. The monies raised are used for supplies for the fire house, including uniforms, communication devices and important firefighting equipment.

More than 60 volunteers, plus the firefighters and fire chief, spend countless hours to collect donations, cook the meal and serve you a delicious breakfast. 2017 marks their 15th anniversary, and they invite you to join them and celebrate.

During the event, Wathen, one of the initial founding firefighters of the SOFD, which was

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created in 2002, will be honored. He has been the face of the fire department as he has served the community as fire chief for all 15 years of the district fire department. He will be retiring July 31, 2017.

For many years, fire chief was a volunteer position, with the district eventually garnering sufficient funds to compensate Wathen for his endless hours of service. “His service far exceeds his modest compensation, and he has been on call 24 hours a day for the last 15 years,” said Eileen Klatt, public information officer for the Sam Owen Fire District. “His dedication to serving the community has been unwavering, and his commitment to the quality of fire

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RIGHT PLACE, RIGHT TIME Not one of these people was forced to intercede and help this family in trouble. They chose to assist them, out of the goodness of their souls and kindness of their hearts.

Each individual was a hero that day, acting selflessly to ensure the safety of strangers in their community.

protection, rescue and emergency services outstanding.” Though Wathen is retiring as fire chief, he will continue to serve the community as a fire commissioner, which is a volunteer position.

“A hero is no braver than an ordinary man, but he is brave five minutes longer.” - Ralph Waldo Emerson It is so important to focus on the uplifting stories—that are often underrepresented— of our local heroes amidst the disheartening viral videos of what appears to be officer misconduct. But remember, for every video, there are hundreds of incidents, not recorded,

of our law enforcement helping those in need— from simply assisting an elderly woman with her groceries to holding the hand of someone after being involved in a frightening accident.

How many times do firefighters go into a dangerous fire to save those who cannot escape on their own? And then there are our military men and women, who are serving all over the world, leaving their family and friends behind, to ensure the safety and freedom of all.

It takes a special person to put the needs of others before themselves each and every minute of every day. They sacrifice for the good of others, and do so with an open heart and open arms. Heroes are truly humble

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individuals. They do their job for the love of their job and as a way to give back to their community. We thank you for your strength, dedication and perseverance. Your selflessness inspires us all to be better human beings.

The next time you see a police officer, firefighter, EMT or serviceman, thank them.

That small gesture goes a long way in relaying your appreciation and validating why they do the work they do, and why they are our heroes.

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Heroes Helping Heroes

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LAW ENFORCEMENT EXPLORING PROGRAM If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re interested in pursuing a career in criminal justice, this is for you!

By Patty Hutchens

T

rying to decide on a profession that one will devote his or her time to can be an overwhelming experience for young adults. While some may have a clear vision as to what their professional life will look like, others struggle.

There are few programs that allow young teens to truly experience what a desired profession would look like on a day-to-day basisâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;something that would help make the decision easier. While there are job-shadowing opportunities, they may not give an individual a true feel for the job.

For those teens and young adults who are considering a career in law enforcement, many cities offer a Law Enforcement Exploring program for young adults ages 14 to 21. The mission of the program is to allow those interested in the field of criminal justice an opportunity to experience firsthand, through training, practical experience and other activities, a view of the criminal justice system.

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Law enforcement agencies at the local, state and federal levels sponsor Law Enforcement Explorer Posts. The program is endorsed by organizations including the International Chief of Police Association (IACP) as well as the National Sheriffs Association (NSA). In order to participate in the program, the annual fee is $24. Local Posts may also assess periodic dues or fees to support special activities or events.

The advantages gained from going through such a program include the opportunity to build a relationship with law enforcement professionals. Having a true hands-on experience builds awareness of the criminal justice system, thereby allowing a young adult to make a truly informed decision of whether this is the career path he or she wishes to follow. In some cases, the training one receives through the Law Enforcement Exploring program may qualify the trainee for academic credit in his or her educational institution. It in turn can also help those young adults decide on what advanced education opportunities are

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Having a true handson experience builds awareness of the criminal justice system, thereby allowing a young adult to make a truly informed decision of whether this is the career path he or she wishes to follow.

best to fit his or her field in the criminal justice system.

Even if one does not choose to follow a career in criminal justice, Law Enforcement Exploring allows one to grow personally in areas such as self-discipline and teamwork, resulting in higher standards when it comes to his or her personal and professional lives. In addition, the program also encourages participants to work toward achieving greater physical and mental fitness.

Law Enforcement Exploring is also a great way to develop or strengthen oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leadership abilities and become more involved in the community. Police agencies provide much community service, and by participating in the Law Enforcement Exploring program, young adults can work alongside local law enforcement during various community events, information meetings and much more.

Law enforcement offers a variety of possible careers, not just officers. Because of the nature of the job, those who wish to participate in the Law Enforcement Explorer program must complete a successful background check, go through an oral interview, maintain a certain minimum grade point average, be physically fit and must be a person of good conduct and high moral character. There is a participation form to complete and an annual participation fee.

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In Gig Harbor, Washington, the Explorers Program provides hands-on experience to those interested in a career in criminal justice. Those interested should be aware that the program does require a significant commitment of oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time as well as a minimum number of volunteer hours.

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Interested in pursuing a career in law enforcement? These are just some of the Law Enforcement Explorer programs in the Pacific Northwest: The Explorer Program, sponsored by the Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, Police Department, provides residents of Kootenai County an opportunity to work directly with the Coeur d’Alene Police Department providing exposure to everything from firearms training, crime-scene processing, medical emergencies, directing traffic and domestic disturbances.

To find out if your community has such a program, contact your local police department. Who knows, the call just may get them thinking about establishing such a program if one does not already exist!

The program focuses on five specific areas: career opportunities, life skills, service to the community, character education and leadership experience. To qualify, the applicant must be between 15 and 21 years of age and be registered as an Explorer with the Boy Scouts of America.

In Gig Harbor, Washington, the Explorers Program provides handson experience to those interested in a career in criminal justice. Those interested should be aware that the program does require a significant commitment of one’s time as well as a minimum number of volunteer hours. In addition to the skills that one gains, it also offers the participant an avenue to become an engaging member of the community.

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The program focuses on five specific areas: career opportunities, life skills, service to the community, character education and leadership experience.

To qualify, the applicant must be between 15 and 21 years of age and be registered as an Explorer with the Boy Scouts of America.

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A career in law enforcement requires sacrifices by entire family

By Patty Hutchens Please note, although this story is that of a law enforcement family, the names in this article have been changed to protect their privacy.

W

hen Greg and Sarah were first married, they looked forward to a life full of adventure. High school sweethearts, the couple married while in college. As they moved forward on their life journey, they began to consider what career path would be best for Greg in light of the fact they wanted to start a family.

“After we found out we were expecting, he [Greg] got serious about long-term job prospects. His first career was working in powerline construction, which required constant travel. But he had always wanted to see what law enforcement was all about, and it was the perfect time to pursue that,” said Sarah. “What he liked about it was that there was minimal to no travel, he would be working for a county agency, and there was the ability to be home every night—or morning depending on the schedule—with his family.”

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... they could not focus on the “what ifs.”

While the potential danger the job brings did enter the conversation, the couple balanced that with the fact that there are thousands of law enforcement officers, and they could not focus on the “what ifs.” If Greg wanted to pursue his dream, they would not let the fear of potential harm get in their way.

“We talked about the negative backlash that our family might receive from people and families that he would be in contact with through work,” explained Sarah of other considerations. “We also considered whether we would have to be more cautious when in public, especially in a small town when everyone might know what he does for a living.”

As it turned out, life in a small town did require a few adjustments to ensure the safety of their family.

“We never changed our daily routine, and for the most part we don’t stop what we’re doing or where we’re going just because we might run into someone that he knows through work,” said Sarah. “But there have been small adjustments we’ve had to make, sometimes in the places that we’ve felt safest before, just because of his job.”

Their family, which now includes two sons, ages 8 and 5, switched church services and ultimately changed churches, to avoid someone Greg had come in contact with through his work as a law enforcement officer.

“He [Greg] didn’t want them to be able to associate him with his family,” said Sarah. “There’s room for everyone in church, so we quietly switched services and then churches so he didn’t have to constantly be on the lookout for that.”

While long hours were to be expected, Sarah said one aspect of the job that surprised her was the many late nights. A normal shift is 12 hours,

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but if there is an incident or arrest at the end of the shift, law enforcement officers cannot simply turn it over to the next shift. With follow-up reports and paperwork, a 12-hour shift can frequently become a 16- to 18-hour shift.

“When you’re dealing with people, every day is a surprise,” said Sarah, who added that she did not expect the passion she now has when it comes to defending law enforcement, especially given the negativity that can be so prevalent with social media.

“It’s hard not to take their opinions personally,” said Sarah. “If you’re not careful to stay out of it, that negative publicity from the public can get to you.”

Sarah also shared that she was surprised to find that when people discover she is married to a law enforcement officer, they suddenly seem to hold her to a higher standard and assume that she knows everything that happens in her husband’s work life.

“People assume that he comes home and tells me everything that happens during his work day, and that’s not true,” said Sarah. “I can’t count the number of times that he’s specifically not told me something because he didn’t want to worry me. We try very hard to leave work at work so that he can be the best dad he can be while he’s at home. That’s the most important thing to us.”

With a young family, they have had to make adjustments to ensure the family can celebrate important occasions together. For instance, if Greg works on Christmas morning, the celebration will take place either Christmas Eve or Christmas night.

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“We never changed our daily routine, and for the most part we don’t stop what we’re doing or where we’re going just because we might run into someone that he knows through work,” said Sarah. “But there have been small adjustments we’ve had to make, sometimes in the places that we’ve felt safest before, just because of his job.”

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While the kids are old enough to know there is potential danger each time their dad leaves for work, it is not something the family dwells on.

“We like to tell the kids about the things that Greg does where he gets to help people—if someone wrecks their car and he is there, or even if he just helps change a flat tire on the side of the road,” said Sarah.

“Their favorite time is when Daddy shows up at their school to do a school check and pops in to say hi to the class.”

Greg does his best to keep his work separate from family, but the reality is that some of the protocol from his work trickles over to his personal life. Choosing a place at the table in a restaurant where he can face the door is just one of the many things he does. Always vigilant and aware, Greg notices cars, faces and other things that may seem a little “off.”

Greg advises that for anyone considering law enforcement, they should first consider the effect it may have on their family. Asking yourself certain questions will help you make your decision easier.

“Do you have a family, and is that something important to you? Does the idea of helping the public outweigh your personal safety? Can you deal with the pressure of seeing someone you’ve dealt with at work out in the public after the fact?” said Greg.

And as one who is married to a law enforcement officer, Sarah advised to not follow anything one would see on the news or social media related to local law enforcement.

“Ignorance is bliss. Trust in your spouse to do the best job they can do in the time they’re given to do it, and focus on your family,” said Sarah.

As for Greg’s career, Sarah said she is proud and grateful that people like him continue to work diligently to keep the community safe.

“He’s had the opportunity to save lives and get bad people off the streets, but there’s always missed opportunities, and another opportunity on the next shift,” she said.

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Public

N A H T U O Y Recognition

The unfortunate reality is that police officers are not receiving the support they once did, but we can do a great deal to change that. Are you involved in a local club or group such as Rotary or the Chamber of Commerce? Invite a local police officer to come speak and answer questions. Also in that public setting, acknowledge some of the great things the police officers or other first responders in the community have done to make the town a better and safer place.

Adopt-a-Cop

Pay it forward

Many communities have Adopt-a-Cop programs. These are designed to match a local individual or family with a local law enforcement officer. The people who have adopted the officer pray for him or her on a daily basis and also encourage the officer with notes of support. Prayer is powerful, and we can all do our part to offer the officers in our community with added protection through this ministry. Since its inception in 1998, the Adopt-a-Cop program has grown and is present in 24 states.

Make it public

We think of social media as being a place to connect with friends and family. But there are many law enforcement agencies that have established their own social media pages to communicate with the public. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an effective way to disseminate information on road closures and community events and to provide information about the agency in general.

It can also be used as a way for the public to show its support to local law enforcement. Post a note of thanks or support on your local law enforcementâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s social media page, and you will soon find that good news really does travel fast!

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Full Body Workout | Workout Changes Daily Trainer Always Included

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

(253) 514-6670

www.9Round.com/GigHarborWA

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K N e u l b Make a

special visit

Kids love to visit a fire station or police station. In fact, many have the opportunity to do so during special field trips while in preschool or kindergarten. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exciting to see the big trucks and to see a police car up close. A great way for kids to extend their thanks to first responders is to involve the kids in baking treats and hand delivering them to the local fire station or police department. Not only is it fun, but it can also teach kids the importance of showing gratitude. It will also have a profound impact on those who sacrifice so much with such little recognition.

Write thank you notes Writing a simple note thanking those first responders in your community does not take much time and has a significant impact. Involve the entire family, with each choosing a different recipientâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;police department, sheriff â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s department or fire station. Do you know someone serving in the military? Send them a thank you as well. Acknowledge not only the danger of the profession they have chosen, but also the sacrifice their family makes. Make it a Fourth of July and Thanksgiving tradition or randomly choose a few times during the year to take time to reflect on the blessings these first responders provide.

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e PHOTO COURTESY GIG HARBOR POLICE

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TRAVEL & LEISURE challenging. Chief Louie’s vision was to change that. And the Band did.

In January, Chief Louie was appointed to the Order of Canada in recognition of his leadership and ingenuity in transforming the Band’s economic future.

Nk’mip Cellars: Canada’s First AboriginalOwned Winery One of Nk’mip’s most celebrated accomplishments is its winery, which is run in partnership with wine producer Vincor Canada. Although the onsite vineyard is small, (24 acres), the Band’s success in creating award-winning vintages from its 243-acre vineyard on the outskirts of Osoyoos has helped to give Canada’s first Aboriginal-owned winery international acclaim.

NK’MIP RESORT

W

CANADA’S LITTLE DESERT OASIS ARTICLE AND PHOTOS BY JAN LEE

hen Canadians want to experience arid sunny weather, they head for British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, a 125-long crevasse of shimmering lakes, rolling pasturelands and dramatic vistas. Vineyards drape themselves across gentle hillsides, tucked into imposing mountainsides of forests and sagebrush.

Peach, apple and cherry orchards, once the agricultural “fruit basket” of BC, nestle small hillsides with fruit stands at every turn. What was once a formidable “desert” of rattlesnakes, small cacti and unbroken landscapes now serves as Western Canada’s favorite summer getaway.

The southern tip of this oasis is home to Canada’s “pocket desert,” a 24-mile strip of dramatic rock faces and gently sloping hills of sparse forests and sagebrush terrain that frames the town of Osoyoos (Oh-soo-yoos).

It’s also home to the Southern Okanagan’s most unusual travel destination: Nk’mip Resort.

Tucked into the eastern hillsides that overlook Canada’s warmest freshwater lake, the resort was developed by the Osoyoos Indian Band

in the 1990s, and in recent years has become a model example of community ingenuity and spirit. The resort, which is designed to meet the vacation interests of just about every traveler, features luxury accommodations, an award-winning winery, an RV park, an Aboriginal cultural center and a golf course with dramatic views.

But it’s also garnered international attention for its success in educating visitors about Native Canadian history through displays, interactive attractions and opportunities to learn about and appreciate the Osoyoos Indian Band’s history and culture.

The resort was officially launched in 1998 under the leadership of Chief Clarence Louie, who believed that his community’s economic challenges could be overcome with careful planning and investment. Like many of Canada’s Aboriginal communities, the Osoyoos Indian Band had faced poverty and unemployment for decades. It was also hampered by restrictive federal laws that prohibited Aboriginal communities from mortgaging their own land on reserves, so coming up with ways to create jobs and sustain economic development was

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During the summer, visitors can enjoy lunch on Nk’mip Cellars’ terrace patio or sample and purchase wines (tastings include five vintages for $5 CAD; fee is waived if you purchase a bottle).

Visitors can enjoy a glass while taking in Osoyoos’ stunning sunsets from the lounge.

THE RESORT, WHICH IS DESIGNED TO MEET THE VACATION INTERESTS OF JUST ABOUT EVERY TRAVELER, FEATURES LUXURY ACCOMMODATIONS, AN AWARDWINNING WINERY, AN RV PARK, AN ABORIGINAL CULTURAL CENTER AND A GOLF COURSE WITH DRAMATIC VIEWS.

J U LY 2 9 , 2 0 1 7 It’s not the good life, it’s the best life!

Welcome home to Harbor Place!

26 WINERIES 20 RESTAURANTS 6 BREWERIES & DISTILLERIES For information visit: harborwineandfoodfest.com

PURCHASE TICKETS AT

bit.ly/harborwineandfood2017

$10

O F F

READER SPECIAL

Enter code: livinglocal Valid through 7/24/17 7/2/17

Presented by

7th Annual GigHarborLivingLocal.com

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

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

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

Independent Retirement & Assisted Living Community 1016 29th Street NW Gig Harbor, WA 98335 253.853.3354 HarborPlaceRetirement.com

Nk’mip RV Park The Nk’mip RV Park, set on the shores of Lake Osoyoos, has been around for decades, a hidden secret dating back to when Osoyoos was still a small village and RVing in Arizonalike summer weather was an unheard of novelty in Canada.

“The RV Park has been around since the 1960s,” said Katrina Baptiste, the RV Park and Campground’s general manager. But it was several decades before the owners realized they had a real gem that was worth expanding. “[The Band] really started to develop [the RV park] back in ‘97,” said Baptiste. One of its additions was a “snowbird-friendly” area for winter RVers there for the colder months, close to clubhouses and a pool.

“There are some people who have been with us for 12 or 13 years—every summer. It’s become their summer vacation,” and those who return each year often bring their families and friends, building a yearly cadre of regular RVers.

Today, the park features 389 RV and camping sites, including more than 100 sites near the lakeshore. A snack bar is open in the summer, and a pool and numerous walking trails are available year round.

Spirit Ridge For many, it’s Nk’mip’s Southwestern-style luxury accommodations that make the resort a success. Crowning the top of the hillside and overlooking Nk’mip’s vineyards is Spirit Ridge Vineyard Resort & Spa, a tasteful collection of both short-term and long-term accommodations.

Guests have access to a variety of amenities, including a spa, restaurants, riding stables and an onsite golf course.

They also have the option to purchase a residence that offers them the same quiet ambiance and stunning views, yet is set apart from Osoyoos’ busy seasonal attractions.

Nk’mip Desert Cultural Centre One of the Band’s goals is to protect the last vestiges of the pocket desert and its delicate ecology. One way it is doing that is by educating visitors about the culture and history of the area.

Scientists continue to debate whether Osoyoos is really surrounded by a desert. Some maintain that the area’s 300 millimeters of rain and snow disqualifies that classification. Yet others point

PHOTO BY DESTINATION BC/ANDREW STRAIN

WHERE’S OSOYOOS?

10 miles north of Oroville, Washington, on Highway 97. It’s an easy 4-mile drive from the U.S.-Canada border and a six-hour drive west of Bonners Ferry, Idaho, via Canada’s Highway 3.

NK’MIP

Spirit Ridge Reservations: 844.755.4622 Hotel: 250.495.5445 • SpiritRidge.ca RV and Campground: 250.495.7279 CampingOsoyoos.com

DESERT CULTURAL CENTRE 888.495.8555 NKmipDesert.com

FOR A LIST OF OSOYOOS ATTRACTIONS, CONTACT: Osoyoos Visitor Centre: 250.495.5410

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

PRESENTS

3RD ANNUAL BENEFIT A Benefit for local Environmental Education

In-House Master Jeweler and Graduate Gemologist

September 14, 2017 6:00-8:30 PM The Club at the Boatyard Heavy hors d’oeuvre by Sunshine’s All Natural Catering & Taylor Shellfish Signature Cocktail by Heritage Distilling Co.

Voted in the Top 25 out of 100 of the Best Designer Jewelers in Western Washington!

Silent Auction & Raise the Paddle Keynote address by JoAnn Moore 2012 National Geographic Grosvenor Teacher Fellow

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

presents

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Tickets available at harborwildwatch.org

SPRING IS A GREAT TIME TO VISIT NK'MIP RESORT.

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YOUR

ADVENTURE STARTS HERE!

D SAN PO

INT

INT

GO

O

vacation home specialists 208.946.0901 www.GoSandpoint.com steve@gosandpoint.com f/gosandpoint

PREMIER VACATION RENTAL HOMES

Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re here for the weekend or here for the summer, Go Sandpoint Vacation Homes are the perfect jumping off point for an adventure-packed summer.

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to the area’s desert-friendly wildlife and unique terrain as proof.

So researchers now call this arid pocket a shrubsteppe: a name that is less attractive, but more accurate in explaining why Nk’mip’s famous winery, for example, is so successful in carving a niche out of a desert-like environment that isn’t really a desert: it’s dry, hot (90 to 104 F) in the summer and often has the ambiance of Arizona’s or Western Washington’s summerbaked resorts.

That dry climate also has helped to define the customs and way of life of the local Aboriginal community. At the Nk’mip Desert Cultural Centre, visitors can learn about the many ways the region’s first residents learned to survive and thrive in the arid Okanagan. They can also learn about the cultural traditions that were passed down, and the huge societal, cultural and educational challenges that residents faced as Canada developed as a nation. Visitors can also pay a visit to Spirit Lake, a sacred spiritual location that is available for viewing from the distance.

Nk’mip and Osoyoos Attractions The town of Osoyoos has its own recreational opportunities as well. Lake Osoyoos, Canada’s warmest freshwater lake, is a favorite destination for boaters, swimmers and fishermen alike. Numerous trails snake along the shoreline and in the hillsides, offering plenty of photo opportunities and gardens to enjoy. A local waterside park and amusement park offer added family enjoyment on hot summer days.

Visitors can also learn about the city’s innovative efforts to keep the lake healthy and free of overgrowth. During the fall, a brightly colored “paddlewheel” boat rototills the milfoil growing in the lake. In the summer, another boat harvests it, keeping the water and its unique ecology healthy.

Coffee houses, a gourmand’s selection of restaurants, art galleries, nearby music venues, parks and shops are all available to travelers during the summer and fall, rounding out opportunities to experience Canada’s most unique pocket desert oasis.

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Feeling Good is Good to Feel

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Food & Drink YOUR GUIDE TO LOCAL EATS

WATERFRONT RESTAURANT At the head of the bay.

Morso 9014 Peacock Hill Ave. Gig Harbor 253.530.3463 MorsoWineBar.com $$-$$$

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food, wine & beer

waterfront restaurant with art gallery

enjoy lunch, happy hour & dinner

2014 OPEN TABLE TOP 100

BEST WINE LIST in America as voted by Open Table Diners

amazing salads • filet mignon fresh fish • great wines • happy hour rotating craft beers • patio seating live entertainment • 21+ tuesday - thursday • 4pm-10pm friday & saturday • 11:30am-10:30pm sunday • 2pm-9pm 9014 Peacock Hill Ave. at N. Harborview Dr. at the head of the bay

253.530.DINE (3463)

online reservations at morsowinebar.com

Fine Dining with Endless Views

of Mt. Rainier and the Gig Harbor Lighthouse.

Walk-Ins & Reservations Lunch Mon~Sat 11am to 2pm Happy Hour 3pm to 5:30pm Dinner Mon~Sat 4pm to close Closed Sunday

253.851.3167 • Lunch & Dinner

2905 Harborview Drive NW

Cocktails ~ Premium Beers ~ Extended Wine List

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www.thegreenturtle.com

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eat. drink.

YOUR LOCAL DINING GUIDE

Restaurants with this symbol have public Wi-Fi access.

9014 PEACOCK HILL AVE. GIG HARBOR, WA 253.530.3463 MORSOWINEBAR.COM

4628 PT. FOSDICK DR. NW GIG HARBOR, WA 253.851.8464 MOCTEZUMAS.COM

Satisfy your palate with their amazing gourmet lunch and dinners overlooking spectacular views of the water. Gig Harbor’s best-kept secret! Wine list offers a worldwide scope, craft beers on tap, fun food and wine events. Their Morso Gallery provides private dining and a unique experience seeing local and national artists. Live music events feature amazing artists from around the country. Open Tues.-Thurs. 4-10pm, Fri.-Sat. 12pm-12am, Sun. 2-9pm.

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.

4901 Pt. Fosdick Dr. NW Gig Harbor, WA 253.432.4061 LunchboxLaboratory.com

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

4701 Pt. Fosdick Dr. NW Gig Harbor, WA 253.514.6703 BlazingOnion.com

7804 Pioneer Way Gig Harbor, WA 253.358.3241

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!

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. 11am8pm.

Locally owned featuring 26 chef-inspired burger options, salad creations and more.

Fresh, locally sourced produce and natural meats, chicken, buffalo, turkey and vegetarian options. Open Sun.-Thurs.

11am-10pm, Fri.-Sat. 11am11pm. Sports Lounge open Sun. 11am-10pm, Mon.-Thurs.

11am-11pm, Fri.-Sat. 11am12am.

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. 7am7pm, Sun. 8am-5pm. Drive thru opens at 6am Mon.-Fri.

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TheHarborGeneralStore.com

sip.

253-313-5640 | 6820A Kimball Drive Suite 7, Gig Harbor, WA 98335

QUALITY MEATS 4793 POINT FOSDICK DR. NW #400 GIG HARBOR, WA 253.514.6482 GREENHOUSEGIGHARBOR.COM 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 $20 all night on Sunday. Their small and bigger bites menu offers fun, deliciously sharable plates. Open Mon.-Thurs. 11am-9pm, Fri.-Sat. 11am-10pm, Sun. 11am-8pm.

• 100% Grass Fed Beef • NW Natural Meat Products

5% OFF

when you pay cash!

Stop by and pick up our ready-made dinners Taco Asada, Carne Asada and more!

WWW.HARBORFARMSMEATSANDSEAFOOD.COM Open 7 days a week Monday-Saturday 9am-8pm Sunday 9am-6pm

6820 KIMBALL DR., SUITE 7 GIG HARBOR, WA 253.313.5640

Harbor Farms Meats and Seafood offers Northwest natural meat products, all wildcaught fish and homemade marinated meats.

Go pick up dinner! The freezer case is filled with exotic hard-to-find products, specialty items and soups. Find the best pork you can buy from the Midwest! Open daily Mon.-Sat. 9am-8pm, Sun. 9am-6pm.

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NOW OFFERING CATERING

Food & Drink Recipe STRAWBERRY AND CHIA PUDDING Recipe courtesy of the Waterfront Farmers Market

Serves 4 Ingredients • 2 cups Almond Milk • 16 oz. Strawberries • 1⁄2 cup Chia Seeds • 1⁄4 cup Honey • 1 tsp. Vanilla Extract

#DrinkMarkee

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

WE ARE COMMUNITY.

Put It Together • In a blender, puree the almond milk and the strawberries until smooth.

• Pour the mixture into a bowl and stir in the chia seeds, honey and vanilla extract.

• Cover the bowl and refrigerate until it is set (approximately 4 hours).

• Serve chilled and garnish with sliced strawberries and a sprig of fresh mint.

Make sure to visit the Farmers Market for local berries, honey and mint!

drinkmarkee.com hello@drinkmarkee.com

Gig Harbor

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

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Dinner in the Vineyard tasting room vineyard tours www.olallawines.com

& Tequila Bar AWA R D-W I N N I N G

Mexican Restaurant

Voted #5 Best Mexican Restaurant Bar in America!

2014, 2015 & 2016

2014, 2015 & 2016

The Place To Go For Mexican!

4628 PT FOSDICK DRIVE NW GIG HARBOR, WA 98335 253.851.8464

FRESH WATERMELON MARGARITAS

Are Back!

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RBOR.COM

PROUD TO BE ONE OF THE MANY SPONSORS OF THE MILITARY APPRECIATION PICNICS THIS SUMMER!

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

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

IF YOUR GOALS INVOLVE GROWING YOUR BUSINESS (and they should)

LETâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S TALK!

253.273.8524

julie@livinglocal360.com

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Arts & Entertainment LOCAL EVENTS & HAPPENINGS

ART FEST A weekend of art, food and music

By Colin Anderson Photos courtesy of Charlee Glock-Jackson THE PENINSULA ART LEAGUE is putting the final touches together in preparation for its 33rd annual Summer Art Fest. The fun summer celebration of local arts and artistry will be held on July 15 and 16, and you’ll find all the happenings along Judson Street in Historic Downtown Gig Harbor. The Peninsula Art League has lined up nearly 150 artists and craftspeople to showcase their unique displays throughout the weekend. Fun places to stop include the Literary Corner where authors and illustrators will present their works and be on hand to meet and greet. There will be several food trucks to keep you well fed and a variety of live music performances to enjoy while strolling between displays. Works done by PAL members will be displayed inside the Paradise Theatre at the “Art in Paradise” exhibit.

Admission to Art Fest is free, however many of the photos, sculptures, crafts, paintings and other forms of art will be for sale. This is a great opportunity to find a variety of unique pieces for your home or fun gifts for friends and family. You’ll also be helping support young artists in the community as proceeds from this event go toward scholarships for local high school seniors looking to pursue a career in the arts.

In fact, Gig Harbor High School student Shelby Workman’s illustration was chosen as the main image for this year’s poster. Funds also help PAL put on additional art shows, workshops and other educational opportunities throughout the year. The event is put on entirely by volunteers, and if you would like to help out, the Peninsula Art League would be happy to hear from you. You can contact them through PeninsulaArtLeague.com. Take a stroll down Judson Street during Art Fest and you’ll see an amazing display of talent from your local artists.

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SERVING GIG HARBOR SINCE 2002 Servicing Foreign & Domestic A/C Services Scheduled Maintenance Brake Service Oil Changes & More

253.851.0500

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

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

WE LIKE TO GIVE BACK! Please ask about our Military and Senior Discounts

TACOMA NARROWS PHOTO BY DIANE FETZNER

253.380.7554

www.YardsByPacific.com Find us on Facebook!

An Outdoor

Experience

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

JUL

Tacoma Freedom Fair & Air Show

04

1-4. The Freedom Fair and Air Show has repeatedly been recognized as one of the top Fourth of July celebrations in the United States! This four-day destination event boasts seven stages, air show, multiple car shows, Camp Patriot dedicated to honoring our military heroes, an international food marketplace, a media day and a pilot’s VIP reception. FreedomFair.com

JUL

Uptown Summer Concert

06

6, 13, 20, 27. Each Thursday, July 6 through August 17, pack your lawn chair and head to the Uptown Gig Harbor Pavilion to enjoy a variety of local musicians and bands, 6 to 8pm. 2017 performers include Indigo Jazz, The Shy Boys, King Kom Beaux, WEPA, Blue Grass Minstrels, Cannibal Hamster and Wounded Mic. These concerts are free and family friendly. UptownGigHarbor.com

JUL

06

Gig Harbor Waterfront Farmers Market

6, 13, 20, 27. Fresh. Local. Delicious. Head to Skansie Brothers Park each Thursday, 3 to 7pm, for the Waterfront Farmers Market. With locally grown produce, freshly caught seafood, farm-raised meat and beautiful flower bouquets, it’s a great way to spend a summer evening in Gig Harbor.

WaterfrontFarmersMarket.org

JUL

JUL

JUL

The Little Mermaid

7 Seas Brewing Anniversary Bash

SCUBA Rockfish Survey

08

07

7-30. Tacoma Musical Playhouse takes you “Under the Sea” as it presents Disney’s The Little Mermaid. With music by eight-time Academy Award-winner Alan Menken, lyrics by Howard Ashman and Glenn Slater, and a compelling book by Doug Wright, this fishy fable will capture your heart with its irresistible songs including “Under the Sea,” “Kiss the Girl” and “Part of Your World.” TMP.org

09

Help Gig Harbor’s 7 Seas Brewing celebrate their eighth anniversary, 2 to 8pm, at the Gig Harbor Taproom, 3006 Jusdon St. Suite 110. Stop in for a cold brew and to enjoy food and beer specials, entertainment, four bands and more!

Admission is $4 and the event is kid friendly. 7SeasBrewing.com

Join Harbor WildWatch for some SCUBA Science noon to 2pm. You must be SCUBA certified to participate, but you don’t have to be a scientific diver. Stena will train you on the simple protocol to identify year of young rockfish prior to splashing.

Once you learn the procedure, you can collect data on any of your future dives to help better understand the recovery of threatened rockfish species in the Puget Sound. HarborWildWatch.org

Upcoming Events - August 04

05

4-26 PARADISE HILL ON THEATRE WHEELS PRESENTS CAR AND CURTAINS BIKE GigHarborLivingLocal.com SHOW

05 106

THE NARROW CAR SHOW 20TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

06

SUNDAY JAZZ AT MARKEE

JUL

29

Gig Harbor Wine and Food Festival Grand Tasting Wine and food lovers will enjoy sampling the best of what more than 50 regional restaurants, wineries, breweries and distilleries have to offer.

The Grand Tasting Event, noon to 4:30pm, will feature some of the best chefs the Pacific Northwest has to offer, with two cook-off competitions under the watchful eye of Chef Thierry Rautureau, the Chef in the Hat. HarborWineAndFoodFest.com

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JUL

09

Art on the Avenue

This annual music and art festival hosted by the 6th Ave Business District attracts thousands of patrons and is Tacoma’s largest artsbased yearly event. This year’s festival, which will take place 10am to 4pm at 6th Avenue and Pine, will focus on the many styles and forms of expressions from Tacoma’s diverse city. Admission is free.

On6thAve.org/art-on-the-ave

Triple-A Home Run Derby and All-Star Game

JUL

10

10 & 12. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to see the greatest talents from the Pacific Coast League and International League square off at Cheney Stadium. Tickets are priced between $31 and $61 each; lap children 3 and younger are free. Call 800.745.3000 to purchase tickets by phone.

Each seat purchased includes: Triple-A Home Run Derby (July 10 at 7:05pm) and Triple-A All-Star Game (July 12 at 6:05pm).

MILB.com

JUL

14

Dance to the Movies Summer Fundraiser

Gig Harbor Film Festival presents Dance to the Movies, an evening of dinner, auction and dance at the Canterwood Golf and Country Club. Come spend a beautiful summer evening with friends in support of Gig Harbor’s local arts scene! Tickets are $75 per person. For more information, call 253.851.3456. GigHarborFilmFestival.org

JUL

JUL

JUL

Sea Faces

Chalk the Harbor

Gig Harbor Wine & Food Festival

14

15

Four artists will be showing portraits of locals, with short descriptions of each model’s personal experiences and stories beside each image. The result is an equal parts fine art and storytelling event. Artists include Sacha Brown (photography), Kim Anderson (mixed media), Nate Seay (charcoal) and Nathan Yeager (oil, charcoal). The event will be held 6 to 8pm at the Harbor History Museum, with a brief presentation, snacks and a cash bar. For more information, call 253.651.0545.

28

Chalk the Harbor is a fun and free family event where children, families and adults are invited to decorate the sidewalks of the downtown waterfront 10am to 2pm. Chalk is provided, along with awards in several categories including kids, family, maritimenautical art and more! Call 253.514.0071 or visit GigHarborWaterfront.org.

28-29. Join your friends in the Harbor for this not-to-be-missed event! Sip & Savor dinners, a grand tasting with cook-off and demonstrations, winemakers dinner and more! Co-sponsored by the Downtown Waterfront Alliance and the Rotary Club of Gig Harbor. A detailed event calendar can be found at HarborWineAndFoodFest. com.

Upcoming Events - August 09

WEDNESDAY WALKS WITH WALTER

11

CINEMA UNDER THE STARS

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19

GUIDED BEACH WALK- FOX ISLAND SAND SPIT

25

25-27 FIGURE DRAWING SKILLS FOR PAINTERS AND SKETCHERS WORKSHOP

Because Life’s Too Short for

Boring Furniture 3200 Tarabochia Street • Gig Harbor 253.514.6890 • www.rainydayyarns.com Mon 11-8, Tues-Fri 11-5, Sat 10-5 NOW OPEN Sunday 12-4

Call to join our Group & Private Classes!

Gifts - Home Decor Custom Painted Furniture 3306 Harborview Drive, Gig Harbor, WA (253) 530-0818 • info@weatheredcottage.net weatheredcottage

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

DAVID POOL ARCHITECTURE | pllc A Leading NW Architecture Firm Specializing in Contemporary Residential Homes

License #1581

Use our convenient 24/7 ONLINE SCHEDULER

Moran Home Inspections www.moraninspection.com

(253) 313-4160

DavidPoolArchitecture.com 253.651.4077 GigHarborLivingLocal.com

shawn@moraninspection.com • U.S. Veteran former Marine owned business •

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Introducing...

G

et in on the excitement with the NEW Gig Harbor Living Local’s Finest Awards.

These will be voted on by our readers and the community...because Gig Harbor deserves a Gig Harbor’s Finest! Start voting online for your favorite local businesses, fitness spots, restaurants and places to entertain!

Visit GigHarborLivingLocal.com to vote for your favorites today, and don’t forget to spread the word!

We believe our hard-working businesses should be recognized, and we are excited to highlight the best that Gig Harbor has to offer.

The October issue will announce the winners and be the biggest issue of the year, not only because we will be awarding our Gig Harbor’s Finest, but because we will have a party to celebrate and congratulate our winners!

Start voting and sharing this with your favorite people and talk to the business owners who you can’t live without. There are many categories to choose from, so have fun and tell us WHO you think are Gig Harbor’s Finest!

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EnR Re p a t thu tired WH NO fo urc n o o a E sW r h ld n ia ? Cl AIRI W ? R as NN Ji all as cl thyeo stA m i t n a n W e sic TEG! at yp g t ssi hoeu t ifD A D 20 es ha c c seh?a wO an Futom ! a t o t C t 6- f r r yF o 40 ca car th alleJfe ouER tive 6- rs . W at im.rs ouE 13 ru e re u t oD 13 nn pa sul s tof t i (h ng y t s i er or op n u e in d s th no ol e la H t. ar C r bo a ll r)

“ T H E U LTIM ATE G ARAG E S AL E ”

Summer is officially here and we have a local warehouse full of cars. If you are looking for an old classic car like a Mustang, Chevrolet, Truck, Convertible, Mercedes, Austin Healey, Saleen, Sunbeam, International, Cadillac, Chrystler, Hudson, Jaguar, etc., you need to look at our website, identify the car you would like to drive and

OUR SERVICE DEPARTMENT IS NOW OPEN AND AVAILABLE FOR ALL TYPES OF SERVICE

FULL RESTORATION • BODY WORK • PAINTING • TUNE UPS • ELECTRICAL WORK CALL JIM TO TAKE A TOUR OF THE WAREHOUSE. We have cars coming in daily. Even if you’re not looking to buy for yourself, you might just want to buy that grandson of yours a very nice 1966 Mustang Coupe!

ALWAYS ACCEPTING CONSIGNMENTS A L W A YALWAYS S L O O K IACCEPTING N G F O R C O LCONSIGNMENTS LECTOR CARS TO BUY ALWAYS LOOKING FOR COLLECTOR CARS TO BUY

1941 1936CHEVY SERIES 70 SPECIAL DELUXE CADILLAC $17,500 $36,000

1947PONTIAC HUDSON 1966 CUSTOM GTOSEDAN $37,500 $17,000

1948 FORD 1966 CORVETTE F100 STINGRAYPICKUP $28,500 $48,000

For periodic updates on what vintage cars have just come in the door at JCG, PLEASE GO TO WWW.JIMSCLASSICGARAGE.COM, scroll to the bottom of the first page and enter your name and email address.

JIMSCLASSICGARAGE.COM JIMSCLASSICGARAGE.COM THE ULTIMATE GARAGE SALE

“ T HE U LTI M ATE G AR AG E S AL E ”

206-406-1313 206-406-1313 We are located in Gig Harbor at

We are l o cated in G ig Harbo r at 3522 57TH St. CT NW

3 52 2 5 7 T H S t . C T N W

GigHarborLivingLocal.com iin n the Business ark the Westside Westside Business PPark 111

SHOP SHOP

Enjoy your Uptown Life!

Take a break from the ordinary, the expected.

SIP SIP

Treat yourself to the easygoing Uptown style.

EVENTS

CONCERTS

July-August Free Concerts July 6th Indigo Jazz Thursdays 6-8pm July 13th The Shy Boys Summer Sidewalk Sale July 20th King Kom Beaux July 14th-16th

STROLL STROLL

Cruise the Narrows Car Show August 5th 9am-3pm

July 27th WEPA

Glass Pumpkin Patch September 30th 9am-3pm

August 10th Cannibal Hamster

August 3rd Bluegrass Minstrels

August 17th Wounded Mic

DINE DINE Monday to Saturday 10am to 8pm, Sunday 11am to 6pm Monday to Saturday 10am to 8pm, Sunday 11am to 6pm Hwy 16, Exit 10 - Olympic Drive to 4701 Pt, Fosdick Drive Hwy 16, Exit 10 - Olympic Drive to 4701 Pt, Fosdick Drive UPTOWN GIFT CARDS NOW AVAILABLE UPTOWN GIFT CARDS NOW AVAILABLE

DISCOVER DISCOVER

www.uptowngigharbor.com www.uptowngigharbor.com

GigHarborLivingLocal.com Over 11230

stores Over 30 stores

Quick, Simple, & Easy | Commitment to Put You & Your Client First | In-House Specialists

Work with a Lender You Can Trust

The James Group PETER & DAWN JAMES

Peter.James@OnQFinancial.com

Dawn.James@OnQFinancial.com

NMLS # 487468 | WA # MLO-487468

NMLS # 487467 | WA # MLO-487467

253.988.0426

253.988.0425

WWW.THEJAMESGROUPONQ.COM | 253.313.1586 | 2727 Hollycroft St. NW #360 â&#x20AC;¢ Gig Harbor, WA 98335

On Q Financial, Inc. is an Equal Housing Lender NMLS #5645 | WA # CL-5645 | COMPLIANCE CODE

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International Diamond Society

International Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Circle

Fernandes Darnell Team

Sanchez MacGougan Team Tamara Turnley

Kemp Team Cynthia Dillion

Congratulations TO OUR LOCAL COLDWELL BANKER BAIN GIG HARBOR 2016 AWARD WINNERS

Coldwell Banker Premier Office 2015 - 2016 GIG HARBOR OFFICE 2801 Hollycroft St, Suite A | Gig Harbor, WA 98335

John Mosich

253.851.9988

ColdwellBankerBain.com/GigHarbor

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(253) 530-7300

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

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