October 2017 Gig Harbor Living Local

OCT 2017

LIVING LOCAL

LIFE & COMMUNITY

“from homeless to hope”

GET OUT THERE!

OKTOBERFEST

MOVIE PREMIERE

FESTIVALS LOCALS IN BUSINESS we asked:

WHAT DOES IT TAKE

TO DO WHAT

YOU DO?

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SERVING GIG HARBOR

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

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

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

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

Because We Care.

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Exceptional living exceptional QUALITY

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

Mark Wambold NMLS ID 248580 State Lic. MLO-248580

Direct 253.225.3352 | mwambold@fairwaymc.com

www.wamboldhomeloans.com

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

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

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Exclusive Luxury Listing MLS # 1175960

LLC

Specializing in Cosmetic Skincare Botox® Juvederm® Chemical peels

New Patients Only Botox at $10 $9 a Unit

Karen Smith, ARNP

Stop in for our skincare products: SkinMedica , Glytone & Avene® ®

®

HarborHealthandSkincare.net

f

Find us on Facebook!

4221 Harborview Drive Suite 103 Gig Harbor, WA 98335

253.314.2618

JOIN ME IN KEEPING GIG HARBOR’S HERITAGE MOVING FORWARD TOGETHER • Solving Traffic Congestion • Upholding Open Government • Expanding Public Services • Controlling Population Density Paid for by the committee to elect Peter Norman for Gig Harbor City Council.

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Redmond | Active | $929,950

Redmond | Sold | $595,000 Redmond | Sold | $595,000 Redmond | Sold | $595,000

Redmond | Active | $929,950 Redmond | Active | $929,950

OlallaSold | Sold| |$519,950 $519,950 Olalla |

Olalla | Sold | $519,950

North Tacoma | Sold | $345,000 North Tacoma| | $345,000 Sold | $345,000 North Tacoma | Sold

L Y D I A G E L I N EL Y D I A G E L I N E LY DI A GE LI N E

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

20 Now Selling in Pierce County

T

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

lgeline@windermere.com www.lydiageline.com

ision Into Re Your V alit n r u y

Saffire Events

Events | Charlene Steiner | 253.878.2707 | eventswithsaffire@gmail.com

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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

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Refine. Rejuvenate. Relax.

All Organic Sugar Hair Removal Brow to Brazilian, Facials, Lash & Brow Tints, Reiki Energy Healing, Microderm & Glycolic Peels, Body Treatments and More!

253.851.3550

Call for an appointment now

Visit our Boutique.

Handbags, shoes, clothing and so much more!

7620 Pioneer Way, Gig Harbor www.spagigharbor.com f/SharonsSpaBoutique

Ask about Furniture Consignment!

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Your NEW home, your lifestyle Find it in north Gig Harbor • Tour model homes

• Starting from the low–$400,000s

• Four builder choices • Walk to nearby shops, dining, trails and the YMCA GigHarborLivingLocal.com

TOUR

Harbor-Hill.com

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OCTOBER 2017

VOLUME 4 NUMBER 10

38

In Focus Fifteen minutes doesn’t seem like a particularly long time. For local filmmaker Kit Wilson, 15 minutes is the culmination of years of being inspired, a willingness to follow a childhood dream and a symbol of countless hours spent by many people to accomplish their goal; a short film. Read about his journey in this article by Colin Anderson.

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Feature Story

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Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is not a seasonal activity. It’s something that we strive to do year round. In this article, Lindy Petersen gives us some ideas for activities that can be done at any time during the year to help us maintain an active lifestyle.

Travel & Leisure

Regardless of your experience level or where you’ve been able to travel for the ultimate climb, it’s about time for you to check out some of the superb ice climbing locations that can be found in the Pacific Northwest. Journey there through this article by Lindy Petersen.

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k i t k u h n 4 m a y o r. c o m

KIT KUHN FOR MAYOR

Gig Harbor is at a crossroads...

If we hope to preserve our

• Quality of Life • Unique Maritime Character • Open Spaces, Trees, and Spectacular Mountain Views

If we want

• Viable Traffic Solutions • Thriving Business Districts • Adequate City Services

We must have a clear vision and the kind of leadership that listens to the people who live here. Unrestricted growth has created traffic congestion, overcrowding in our schools, and pushed the limits of our infrastructure.

I am honored to be endorsed by former Mayors Jake Bujacich and Chuck Hunter, and former Police Chief Denny Richards. I have over 30 years experience as a successful businessman and community leader. I have what it takes to be your Mayor. Please vote for me on Nov 7th. Thank you.

A VOTE FOR KIT - IS A VOTE 4 GIG HARBOR PA I D

F O R

B GigHarborLivingLocal.com Y K I T K U H N . 3 11 0 J U D S O N

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S T R E E T

# 2 4 4

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G I G

H A R B O R

GIGHARBORLIVINGLOCAL.COM

Eat. Shop. Enjoy.

MARKETING

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

EDITORIAL

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

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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

Diane Fetzner | f dfetznerphotography

GIG HARBOR LIVING LOCAL MAGAZINE

is brought to you by LivingLocal360.com.

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

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

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

A Health Food Store for Dogs & Cats

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

greencottagepets1@gmail.com www.greencottagepets.com

Oreo, a six year old Shih Tzu, waiting for his favorite treat. You can catch Oreo on most sunny days on his paddle board in the harbor.

Primary Healthcare for All Ages Accepting New Patients

Scot Fleshman, ARNP, FNP-BC

• Sports Physicals

• Referrals

• Family Medical Services

• Well Woman Exams

• Annual Physicals

• Well Child Exams

• Preventative Care

• Health Education & Management

• Immunizations

• Chronic Disease Management

• Same Day Sick Visits

• Acute Illness Treatment

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

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

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

PHOTO BY DIANE FETZNER

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some might say...

It’s the most wonderful time of the year!

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 Be Thankful and Extend Gratitude AS WE HEAD INTO THE CRISP FALL DAYS, it is easy to forget about the smoke that hovered over the Northwest for the last days of summer. While the country was focused on the horrific hurricanes in the south, our area of the world witnessed wildfires erupting that destroyed people’s homes, forced evacuations and had people suffering from health problems due to the excessive smoke.

For those who have been affected by these acts of Mother Nature (or in the case of some of the fires, acts of careless people) their lives will be changed forever. And it is not just the victims whose lives were in danger; it was the first responders as well.

For many, we remain unaffected by the wildfires and hurricanes. But that does not mean we should sit by idly. There are many organizations to which you can donate, but before you do make sure they are legitimate, as sadly, it is also a time when people take advantage of others and scammers come out of the woodwork.

Also, whenever possible, extend gratitude to first responders. They put themselves in danger to protect us, and it is a true gift. Be grateful. Be thankful. We never know when we may need the help of a neighbor or stranger.

“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.”

Steve Russo Steve Russo Executive Director steve@livinglocal360.com

OCT 2017

LIVING LOCAL

MUNITY LIFE & COM

GET OUT THERE!

“from homeless to hope”

EST

OKTOBERF

FESTIVALS

MOVIE PREMIERE

LOCALS IN BUSINESS

we asked:

IT TAKE WHAT DOES

office

AT TO DO WH DO? YOU

253.853.2033 ingLocal.com

GigHarborLiv

web

www.familyfirstafh.com

address

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

1

Proud To Partner

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ABOUT THE COVER FALL CAME FAST! Everyone is scrambling for their sweaters, scarves and pumpkin spice lattes.

Don’t forget to stop and wonder at the beauty around us as the leaves turn. Let your inner child come out and go jump in a pile of golden maple leaves! Fall is for fun and family! Cover photo by Diane Fetzner.

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

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

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

253-514-6842

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

www.IntegrativeBody.net GigHarborLivingLocal.com

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#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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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

instagram.com/gigharborliving

pinterest.com/LL360

twitter.com/gogigharbor

Contributors

Kellie French • Brett Marlo DeSantis • Cheri Johnson • Deborah Olive • Marguerite Cleveland Susan Moore • Rhonda Savage • Deanna Iff • Darcie Miller • Lindy Petersen • Annie Nye

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

Quick, Simple, & Easy Commitment to Put You & Your Client First In-House Specialists Work with a Lender You Can Trust

The James Group AT ON Q FINANCIAL, INC. PETER & DAWN JAMES peter. james@onqfinancial.com 253.988.0426 NMLS # 487468 | WA # MLO-487468

dawn.james@onqfinancial.com 253.988.0425 NMLS # 487467 | WA # MLO-487467

AT

Contact the James Group Today!

WWW.THEJAMESGROUPONQ.COM

253.313.1586 2727 Hollycraft St. NW #360 Gig Harbor, WA 98335 On Q Financial Inc. is an Equal Housing Lender NMLS #5645 | WA # CL-5645

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TABLE OF CONTENTS 31

22 Essentials

The latest tips and trends.

31 Life & Community Great local events and stories.

32 Business Spotlight Hear For Life Audiology.

34 Good News

Heritage Distilling Company.

38 Gig Harbor In Focus

Behind the film: Local filmmaker shares his process.

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42 Athletes of the Month Celebrating our student-athletes.

44 Living Local Fall colors tour.

52 Hometown Experts The best local businesses.

54 Business Spotlight Clean & Clear Windows.

58 Health & Lifestyle

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

64 Feature Story

Get out and enjoy a productive and healthy life.

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

Visit GigHarborLivingLocal.com and sign up for our FREE Digital Edition!

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72 Ask the Expert

Interviews with the professionals.

81 Giving Back

Nonprofits are the heart of community.

92 Travel & Leisure

Ice Climbing in the Pacific Northwest.

98 Food & Drink

Discover Gig Harbor’s tastiest destinations.

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106 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.

PE

ND

IN

SPECTACULAR FAIRWAY & LAKE VIEWS $1,075,000

TRADITIONAL ELEGANCE IN CANTERWOOD $675,000

GigHarborHomes.com 253-853-2555 Linda Petersen - Owner/Broker 253-549-6290 Seana Wohlfeil - Broker 253-549-3386 info@lindapetersenteam.com f / LindaPetersenTeam

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G

LUXURY NESTLED IN THE WOODS $1,225,000

Practical Living

ESSENTIALS Article by Brett Marlo DeSantis

AND THEY CHAMPIONED …

THE FIRST ANNUAL PARK(ING) DAY EVENT

IF YOU DIDN’T MAKE it downtown on September 15 or 16, here’s what you missed.

We managed to put on our first Park(ing) Day event! Most parklets were in groups: Pioneer, Harborview, Skansie Park, Millville, Donkey Creek and Finholm. If you didn’t know what to expect with this event, you weren’t alone. The main goal was to increase community conversations and awareness of each other and how we can connect in our built environment by temporarily turning on-street parking spots into public spaces.

Congratulations to the winners! The prizes for participation were $250 for best parklet and socializer.

Best Parklet went to the Gig Harbor Canoe & Kayak Racing Team. They rocked their parklet with their regatta tent and Kayak ERG. They gave out free lessons in racing kayak technique from Head Coach Alan Anderson and had team athletes, ages 13 to 80, hang out at the park to talk with community members. One of their board

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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

ReElect

David Olson Peninsula School Board

Ele c t DavidOl s on.com GOALS: BUILD NEW SCHOOL & UPGRADE CURRENT FACILITIES EXPAND VOCATIONAL CLASSES & ENHANCE SECONDARY PROGRAMS ENSURE SAFETY OF ALL FACILITIES It has been an honor serving as a Peninsula School Board member. I look forward to continuing to serve our outstanding students, teachers and the community as I seek re-election.

I would greatly appreciate your vote. - David Olson Endorsed By: BRUCE DAMMEIER (Pierce County Executive), MARK LINDQUIST (Pierce County Prosecutor), TERRY LEE (Former Pierce County Council), STAN FLEMMING (Former Pierce County Council), KURT GRIMMER, CHUCK WEST, ZACH SMITH, WENDY WOJTANOWICZ, JOHN HOGAN, SHAWN JENSEN, JEREMIAH SAUCIER

Paid for by Committee to Re-elect David Olson for School Board

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|

PO Box 2772, Gig Harbor WA 98335

members said that she felt the community connections they made from those two days were invaluable and they can’t wait to do it again!

Best Socializer went to Brittany Peyrot! Brittany brought her talent and love for community using the street as a stage to play piano, teach piano and share her ideas. She even returned the next day with friends in tow!

So who took the plunge for the first Gig Harbor Park(ing) Day? It started with giant Jenga at William’s Flowers and an outdoor men’s waiting room at Sharon’s consignment. Kelly’s Café had a double parklet “fishbowl” football area. Some Kelly’s employees were spotted sneaking out to toss the ball around the parklet!

Gig Harbor Audio played a jazz mix tape on a Sony Reel-to-Reel, Yamaha WXA-50 integrated amplifier and GHA custom “Fuzzy Speakers.”

They gave away vinyl records.

The Pierce County Library was set up with a miniature library area; rug, chairs, bookcases, even a hammock! They gave away more than 40 books to those who stopped to say hello. All Star Guitar was rocking the street and handing out guitar picks. Alinda Morris Design had a sweet setup with carpet tiles, chairs and a wishing tree. She rocked the parklet, designer style.

Java & Clay café dressed our streets up café style.

The Gig Harbor Dragonboat team tattooed little ones with colorful dragons, treated dogs to healthy snacks and chatted with all those wandering the sidewalk. Clearly, they chat well because they had over 30 new signups for paddling! They will be adding two new practice dates to accommodate all the interest from Park(ing) Day alone.

Harbor WildWatch’s parklet, led by Executive Director Lindsey Stover, interacted with more than 50 people in a four-hour period and reported that half of them had no idea that they even existed. The simple act of being outside in an unusual space spurred curiosity and increased engagement.

In the Donkey Creek area, there were interactive activities as well. A rock-painting station was

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a great stop for families. The Harbor History Museum engaged participants showing the past, present and asking about the future. Gig Harbor morning Rotary placed a piano in the street to play and asked the community whether they would want to see a public street piano. If so, what would they paint on it and where would they put it? Many stopped to play, and there is some serious talent right here in Gig Harbor!

A A A H!

affordable adaptable alternative housing

The Greater Gig Harbor Foundation prepared a vegetable soup recipe that they shared with visitors while collecting food donations for the Community Harvest Project. The soup was so yummy that children were asking for multiple servings! The recipe was right out of the #communityharvest project cookbook.

The main goal was to increase community conversations and awareness of each other and how we can connect in our built environment by temporarily turning on-street parking spots into public spaces.

Seahags and the Downtown Waterfront Alliance were excited to participate and loved leaving their four walls behind to create a venue for communication that might not have otherwise occurred.

You name it.

If you would like to be champion on Park(ing) Day next year, it’s never too early to put it out there. Contact the Downtown Waterfront Alliance and let them know. What do you think Gig Harbor?

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

We build it.

BRETT MARLO DESIGN BUILD

253 376 7935 - brettmarlo.com GigHarborLivingLocal.com

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LICENSE # BRETTMD892QP

FALL HAS ARRIVED TAKE THE TIME TO ENJOY WHAT’S IMPORTANT

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

THE PUMPKIN SPICE CRAZE IS HERE, so fall must be in the air. Those who love the holidays are starting to count down the days until Thanksgiving and Christmas. Those of us in the building industry are hoping that the people who want their remodels completed by those big holidays have planned ahead and are already in the process.

The days are getting shorter and the air is cooling off, so we’ll start spending more time inside. We’ll also be spending more time in our cars running kids around to various school activities, dropping them at practices, and then attending sporting events, which also may mean more traveling on the weekends. So … this may lead to leaving dirty dishes in the sink, the laundry piling up and the house not as clean as we’d like.

I’m not saying this is everyone, and if it’s not you? Congratulations. You are either Superman or Wonder Woman, or you are missing out on other activities while you stay home to do those chores. (Or you’re retired with more time.)

However, I have decided this fall that I’m done being fussy about our house. Instead of staying home cleaning, I’m going to be out in the driveway in the evenings shooting hoops with the kids. I’ll be at their games and spend my weekends having more fun with my family. We’re organized, we’re decluttered, and although it’s not perfectly spotless, it’s good enough for us.

What’s working for us? I’ve written in the past about putting a load of laundry in the morning or doing a few loads during the week to eliminate the big pile on the weekend. How picking one room to clean throughout the week will help eliminate having to clean the

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whole house at once. I’ve also written about how to minimize your clutter by eliminating things you don’t need. I’m a firm believer in these, especially the decluttering. Just let it go. By minimizing and getting rid of things we didn’t need, we also let go of the clutter in our house, which made it much easier to keep things picked up simply because we don’t have those things anymore to pick up!

We spent a little extra money on getting organized, allowing us to keep things out of the way, and providing freedom of more “space” in our home. If you do the same, instantly, it will feel cleaner and you won’t be a slave to the mess. It’ll also makes it easier to wipe off those countertops because they won’t have anything lying around on them, the floor will be easy to vacuum or mop because you don’t have to move things first, and the clothes will be easy to put away because they have a specific spot they belong.

In the long run, you will save yourself some time, too, because instead of looking for things, you will know where they are, and when you’re done, you will know where to put them back where you found them. Winwin, right?

There’s always ways to fine-tune our houses (or households for that matter), but discovering that feeling of being content where you can actually sit back and really enjoy that cup of coffee in the morning or that glass of wine at the end of the day in your own house is pretty priceless.

Your Life.

Your Goals.

Our Focus.

BEFORE YOU CLAIM SOCIAL SECURITY A FEW THINGS YOU MAY WANT TO CONSIDER BEFORE FILING FOR BENEFITS

BY CHERI JOHNSON, FINANCIAL ADVISOR, STRATEGIC WEALTH ADVISORS WHETHER YOU WANT TO LEAVE work at 62, 67 or 70, claiming the retirement benefits you are entitled to by federal law is no casual decision. You will want to consider a few key factors first.

How long do you think you will live? If you believe you will live into your 90s, for example, it may be better to claim later. If you start receiving Social Security benefits at or after age 67 (full retirement age), your monthly benefit will be larger than if you had claimed at 62. If you file for benefits at 67 or later, chances are you probably a) worked into your mid-60s, b) are in fairly good health and c) have sizable retirement savings.

If you sense you might not live into your 80s or you really, really need retirement income, claiming at 62 might make more sense. If you have an average lifespan, you will, theoretically, receive the average amount of lifetime benefits regardless of when you claim them. For the record, Social Security’s actuaries project the average 65-yearold man living 84.3 years and the average 65-yearold woman living 86.6 years.

Will you keep working? You might not want to work too much, for earning too much income can result in your Social Security being withheld or taxed.

Prior to age 66, your benefits may be lessened if your income tops certain limits. In 2017, if you are 62 to 65 and receive Social Security, $1 of your benefits will be withheld for every $2 that you earn above $16,920. If you receive Social Security and turn 66 this year, then $1 of your benefits will be withheld for every $3 that you earn above $44,880.

Social Security income may also be taxed above the program’s “combined income” threshold.

(Combined income = adjusted gross income + non-taxable interest + 50 percent of Social Security benefits.) Single filers who have

W H AT ’ S T H E B E N E F I T ? combined incomes from $25,000 to 34,000 may have to pay federal income tax on up to 50 percent of their Social Security benefits, and that also applies to joint filers with combined incomes of $32,000 to 44,000. Single filers with combined incomes above $34,000 and joint filers whose combined incomes surpass $44,000 may have to pay federal income tax on up to 85 percent of their Social Security benefits.

When does your spouse want to file? Timing does matter. For some couples, having the lowerearning spouse collect first may result in greater lifetime benefits for the household.

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

Finally, how much in benefits might be coming your way? Visit SSA.gov to find out. Social Security calculates your monthly benefit using a formula based on your 35 highest-earning years. If you have worked less than 35 years, Social Security fills in the “blank years” with zeros. If you have, say, just 33 years of work experience, working another two years might translate to slightly higher Social Security income.

Your claiming decision may be one of the major financial decisions of your life. Your choices should be evaluated years in advance, with insight from a financial professional.

Cheri Johnson may be reached at 253.858.4411, cheri@strategicwealthadv.com or 5775 Soundview Drive, Suite 202B in Gig Harbor.

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.

Copyright Marketing Pro.

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www.StrategicWealthAdv.com

253-858-4411

Investment Advisor Representative of USA Financial Securities.

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ESSENTIALS

MINDSET …

AND THE ART OF NEGOTIATION

BY DEBORAH OLIVE, BUSINESS/LIFE COACH

L E A R N I N G N EG OT I AT I O N

EVERY DAY WE ENGAGE A SERIES of small negotiations, though we rarely think of them that way. Our interactions with family, friends, neighbors, those we work with and the people we meet in the grocery store all include negotiations. Who will make dinner, pay the bills or take out the trash? Who will stay late to finish a job? What will we do for entertainment on Saturday night?

to end with compromise so both parties give something up and no one really “wins.” Do you look forward to these mini-negotiations, anticipating that you’ll learn more about the other person, and possibly yourself?

The art of negotiation begins with our mindset.

Marlene, a new friend, sent a text asking if I’d like to meet for dinner.

Saying “yes” means we’ll select a general location, date, time and specific restaurant. We have a common goal, to have an enjoyable dinner connection, so it’ll be relatively easy to create a win-win outcome. I ask, “Do you like Thai food?” Marlene says, “I’m allergic to soy.” She recommends a restaurant where I ate earlier in the week, and I decline.

Back and forth we go until we select a restaurant with a water view that we’re both happy with. The whole process took less than 10 minutes. I discovered she has an allergy to soy. She learned I like variety.

Do you expect negotiations to yield a favorable outcome for both parties?

Or does one person win and the other lose? Maybe you expect outcomes

What have you learned during the past week of “negotiations” about family members, friends, the people you work with and yourself?

It’s clear we’re negotiating when we purchase a home or a car. In business, we negotiate salaries, cost of goods, time for delivery and so on. The point is, negotiating doesn’t stop with major purchases or in the workplace.

We’re negotiating all day long—sometimes with ourselves—and most of us don’t have a clue how to do it well.

Let’s step it up a notch. Imagine you’re buying a new car and walk onto the car lot assuming the salesperson wants to sell the car for as much as possible. Of course, you want to pay as little as possible. This potentially sets up a competitive and possibly contentious negotiation.

During the test drive, you ask a number of questions and you learn that this dealership compensates its sales people based on their customer evaluation, regardless of the sales price. Delighted by this unexpected information, you offer to provide an excellent evaluation in exchange for a great price on the car. Both you and the sales person receive what you want. This win-win outcome wouldn’t have happened if you hadn’t challenged your original assumption and dared to ask new questions.

STEP IT UP

A mindset of curiosity, agility and collaboration is more likely to create a win-win outcome than a mindset of certainty.

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What would greater clarity, focus, ease and energy mean for you?

A mindset of curiosity, agility and collaboration is more likely to create a win-win outcome than a mindset of certainty.

Pause for a moment to notice the number of decisions you make in a single day relative to the number you made 10 years ago. How many of those include mini-negotiations with another person? What happens when that negotiation comes at a time when you’re thinking about something else, are tired or you just hit the brakes because someone pulled in front of you?

It’s easy to blame situations and circumstances for the times we don’t navigate our negotiations optimally, but there’s another way. Being proactive with our mindset increases our sense of calm, creativity and confidence. And that drastically increases the likelihood that we’ll end the day with a strong sense of fulfillment in both our personal and professional lives.

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LIFE & COMMUNITY HEART AND SOUL

MISSION POSSIBLE

Eliminate hunger in the Greater Peninsula. By Kellie French

UNFORTUNATELY, SHORTAGE OF FOOD—known as food insecurity—is an issue in any community, including Gig Harbor and Key peninsulas. On average, 30 percent of all students in the Peninsula School District receive reduced or free lunches; in some schools, the average is greater than 60 percent. Chronic hunger is a serious problem that can contribute negatively to physical and cognitive behavior in children such as aggression, poor academic achievement and health issues. Recent data indicates that one in seven people struggle with hunger across the greater peninsula community.

The #Community Harvest, a year-round community-wide initiative against hunger, is in its second year and convenes on “Make a Difference Day” held on the fourth Saturday in October. The project raised more than $75,000 in its first year. This year the event will be held October 28.

In 2016 and 2017, partners include Food Backpack for Kids (which has 425 enrolled families) and the Thanksgiving Basket Brigade. The goal is to provide enough resources to provide weekend crockpot meals to 425 families for 29 weeks, from Make A Difference Day to the end of the school year.

There are many ways to become involved and help. The deadline to submit crockpot recipes has past; however, you can become a sponsor by visiting GigHarborFoundation.org/communityharvest/sponsor or make a food or monetary donation at one of more than two-dozen sponsor locations in the community.

Another way to get involved is to host your own #Community Harvest food or fund drive. You can hold one just about anywhere. It’s your drive; you can host for one day or for an extended period of time any time throughout the year. If you’re interested in setting up a food or fund drive, call 253.514.6338.

To donate, visit GigHarborFoundation.org and click on “Donate - make a difference” at the bottom of the page. Let’s make this mission possible to stamp out hunger!

According to Julie Ann Gustanski, campaign chair for the #Community Harvest project, “A main objective of the project is to educate the community on the pervasive and significant issue of hunger here, where we live. Through #Community Harvest, the Greater Gig Harbor Foundation works with community partners, individuals, schools and businesses to help educate and to continue work on resolving hunger as an ongoing problem in the community.”

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Audiology

Hear For Life

CHANGING LIVES IN THE GIG HARBOR COMMUNITY

BY JILLIAN CHANDLER

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“Blindness separates people from things, but deafness separates people from people.” – Helen Keller FOUNDED IN 2001 on Bainbridge Island and in Port Ludlow, Hear for Life Audiology expanded its operations, opening its third location right here in the heart of Gig Harbor. “The attraction to Gig Harbor was really three fold, which is family, friends and the amazing sense of community!” says co-owner Bill Every. “I am truly amazed at the receptivity of patients and the business community. It seems as though we have been in the community for years.”

A full-service hearing clinic providing comprehensive hearing health care to adults and older children—with individualized treatment plans based on each patient’s hearing and lifestyle needs—their goal is to better the lives, through hearing, for each patient who enters their doors.

Owners Dr. Camron Meikle, board-certified audiologist, Marilyn Loy Every, M.S., CCC-A, and Bill Every, and primary Gig Harbor audiologist Dr. Deanna Iff, CCC-A, truly care about those they are serving and are committed to their communities and every individual who seeks their help.

“Hearing is an often overlooked yet vital part of an individual’s overall health,” says Dr. Iff. “We love helping people. Every single one of us is happy to go above and beyond to ensure that every patient walks out of our clinic with their needs met and questions answered.”

The owners pride themselves in that Hear for Life Audiology is a patient-centered practice, and the patient is their No. 1 concern. “Patient service is always our priority every single day as reflected by our commitment to the highest quality of patient service, outcomes and education,” says Loy Every. “Our patient care is uniquely designed for each individual and reflects expertise and attention required to assist each person in succeeding with their

goal of improved hearing, communication abilities and quality of life.”

This is supported by the most advanced developments in audiological diagnostics, technological innovations and aural rehabilitation. Along with audiologic testing, they perform hearing evaluations for annual industrial hearing screenings. In addition, they are a full-service hearing aid dispensing and repair center and offer earcleaning services to remove earwax buildup and blockages. Private pay, insurance, state and federal worker’s compensation claims, and VA Choice clients are all welcome at the clinic.

When it comes to what the staff at Hear for Life Audiology finds most rewarding in their profession, it is clear that bringing the joy back into each patient’s life is their ultimate goal. “Being told by a patient that they’re able to listen to music again, or hear their grandchildren whispering—to hear them say they’re connecting again and that you helped—these are the things that make audiology and life rewarding,” says Iff. Dr. Meikle adds: “When a patient returns with a success story of being able to hear their granddaughter’s band concert clearly, can understand the dialogue to their favorite TV show, is more confident at a doctor’s appointment because they’re not guessing at what is being said, or hears the raindrops on the patio roof, we know that the world is a better place.”

Hear for Life Audiology credits its success to their caring customer service and dedicated staff members. Every employee has a family member with a hearing impairment or an impairment themselves, which gives them first-hand knowledge and understanding in the matter.

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“One of the most rewarding aspects of this business is watching and experiencing the transformation of lives by helping people hear,” says Loy Every. “A sense of joy and gratitude is felt when a patient tells you that they were brought to tears when they heard a cricket for the first time in their life!”

Caring, outstanding customer service and hard work is the foundation Hear for Life Audiology is built on. As Loy Every says: “My audiology career has been a means by which I believe I have made a significant difference in the world—helping others enhance their quality of life, their interpersonal relationships, their presence with their families, communities and beyond—by optimizing their sense of hearing.”

If you, a friend or a family member is experiencing hearing concerns, Hear for Life Audiology is here and ready to help.

Hear for Life Audiology 5775 Soundview Drive, Suite 204C Gig Harbor, Washington 98335 253.514.8224 HearForLifeAudiology.com

Hearing impacts all aspect of our health and daily life.

Hearing loss contributes to the following: • Accelerated cognitive decline • Social isolation; lack of participation • Increased risk of depression • Loss of income • Increased risk of falling

GOOD NEWS

BY MARGUERITE CLEVELAND PHOTOS BY MARGUERITE CLEVELAND AND BERRY LAND PHOTOGRAPHY

FALL IS A BUSY TIME AT HERITAGE DISTILLING COMPANY

FALL IS A BUSY TIME at the Heritage Distilling Company. Employees are hard at work distilling and bottling 240,000 minisize bottles of spirits for the 2017 Spirits of Advent Calendar. These “calendars” have become so popular they sell out every year.

In order to keep up with the demand, the company is producing 10,000 calendars for 2017.

Each Spirits Advent Calendar includes 24

“This is our third year producing the Spirits Advent Calendar. The idea came from Jennifer Stiefel, HDC’s president, and is the only domestically produced Spirits Advent Calendar on the market and is the most affordable option out there.

50-milliliter bottles of HDC spirits, two each of 12 different products. Enjoy the signature Brown Sugar Bourbon, the Elk Rider label rye, vodka, crisp gin, flavored vodkas and many more. Beginning December 1, pop open your calendar for the mini of the day.

Each mini has enough spirit in it for two cocktails. The HDC website has all their products listed, and each one has links to cocktail recipes. They also have a YouTube channel with a “Keep it Simple – Cocktail Series,” which has some yummy, easy-tomake cocktails.

“I would say about a third of the people that buy the Advents aren’t actually using them as intended (GASP!). But, I mean, who’s to say the first 24 days of November aren’t every bit as important as the December ones. And then there are the sneaky folks who are breaking open the boxes, pulling out their favorites and using others as holiday hostess gifts and stocking stuffers.

Yep, I am always impressed with people’s creativity,” commented Erin Lund, HDC spirits educator.

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According to Hannah Hanley, director of strategic development, “This is our third year producing the Spirits Advent Calendar.

The idea came from Jennifer Stiefel, HDC’s president, and is the only domestically produced Spirits Advent Calendar on the market and is the most affordable option out there. We started producing the Spirits Advent Calendar at the beginning of August.

Initial production, including packing of the calendars, will be done by the end of September. The Spirits Advent Calendar will be available starting October 1 and will be $49 plus tax. These are our top sellers and offer a great variety of our products for guests who have wanted to try something that we make.”

The Spirits Advent Calendars have a huge local following. One loyal Heritage Distilling Company customer, Rachannee Curry, has purchased the calendars for the past two years and is looking forward to this year’s edition. “I love the concept of a present for an adult that is more of an experience than just a thing. This has both. The anticipation

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of enjoying the fancy treat-cocktail with friends and family, the surprise of ‘What am I going to get?’ and the tangible box with the little doors to open. It is as fun to open as when you were a child. I give one to my sister every year and purchase one for myself so we can try lots of flavors.”

Another product which has proven to be very popular is the Special Forces Bourbon. The HDC motto is: “Every Spirit has a Story,” and this bourbon has a great story. A partnership with the 1st Special Forces Group (it is important to note the product is not endorsed by the U.S. Army and is an off-duty project) and HDC brought about this handcrafted bourbon, which raises money for three charities: 1st Special Forces Group GoldStar Families, Chapter XVI SFA Scholarship Program and the Special Forces Association Chapter XVI.

The bourbon sells for $75 a bottle, with $25 per bottle going to these three charities.

for their products. The company likes to say their spirits are field to flask.

“There are an extremely limited number of bottles of Special Forces Bourbon remaining,” said Hanley. We have raised $40,000 for the SF charities so far, and this run will raise an additional $40,000, putting our donation for three years at over $80,000 total when we make the next donation in December 2017.”

The company also supports local charities and in 2015 was awarded the Secretary of State’s Corporations of Communities Award.

The Heritage Distilling Company has two locations in Gig Harbor and one in Eugene, Oregon. “Heritage Distilling Company looks forward to expanding into additional markets within Washington in the next year, and we are proud to support our local communities,” said Hanley.

Heritage Distilling Company is a craft distillery, which means at least half of all the raw materials used to make their product must be grown in Washington state. Scrupps’ farm in Odessa, Washington, is one of the local family farms where HDC purchases raw ingredients

Heritage Distilling Company can be found at 3207 57th Street Court NW in Gig Harbor. They are open Monday through Wednesday 11am to 5pm, Thursday through Saturday 11am to 6pm and closed Sunday. For more information, call 253.509.0008 or visit HeritageDistilling.com.

Hot Spiked Apple Cider Recipe courtesy of Heritage Distilling Company Ingredients: ½ oz. Brown Sugar Bourbon or Brown Sugar Bourbon 103 1 cup of hot apple cider 1 cinnamon stick 1 star anise Method: Place cinnamon stick and star anise in mug.

Pour hot cider over spices and mix in the Brown Sugar Bourbon.

This super, simple, hot beverage hits the spot on a cold, wet Pacific Northwest day.

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IN FOCUS

INDIANA BEHIND THE FILM Local filmmaker shares his process FIFTEEN MINUTES DOESN’T SEEM like a particularly long time. Most of us can have our coffee, eat our breakfast, brush our teeth and be out the door to work in about that time. For local filmmaker Kit Wilson, 15 minutes is the culmination of years of being inspired, a willingness to follow a childhood dream and a symbol of countless hours spent by many people to accomplish their goal; a short film. Wilson’s first film, “Trick Shop,” is just 15 minutes in length, but the journey took much longer than that.

Growing up in Coronado, California, the bright lights of Hollywood were never far from Wilson’s backyard. The family would drive into L.A. to see the sights, and sometimes Hollywood would end up coming to them. “I remember seeing big stars, Marilyn Monroe and others, shooting movies in my neighborhood and watching them perform in person,” recalled Wilson.

At age 12 he began writing TV scripts, never submitting them to networks,

GigHarborLivingLocal.com

but the exercise set him on his journey to eventually becoming a filmmaker.

After years of living in Los Angeles and writing TV commercials and other marketing projects, Wilson was looking for a change. His children had recently moved to the Northwest, and he decided to follow them, landing in Gig Harbor five years ago. Wilson found the Northwest a much more relaxed place full of creative artists, and thoughts of writing screenplays began to fill his mind. “I realized very quickly this was the perfect environment to let my mind run wild, and the atmosphere is so conducive to creativity here,” he said. “In L.A., it’s all business, and here I get to really enjoy the creativity and am surrounded by creative artists, and I find it immensely rewarding.”

Once settled into Gig Harbor, Wilson began looking for like-minded people to help him get his dreams going. Having never gone to film school, he was in need of honest feedback and guidance on creating a screenplay. He joined just about every film group in the Seattle/Tacoma area that he could find and started networking. While some members were just in it for the hobby, Wilson also met local professional actors and actresses, directors and photographers. The first thing Wilson learned from those in the business is that writing a screenplay is a much different process than writing a TV

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The Numbers

15

The length in minutes of the short film, “Trick Shop”.

12

The age at which Kit Wilson started writing scripts.

1

The number of pages that translates to one minute of film time.

Article by Colin Anderson Photos courtesy of Kit Wilson

“I realized very quickly this was the perfect environment to let my mind run wild, and the atmosphere is so conducive to creativity here,” Wilson said. “In L.A., it’s all business, and here I get to really enjoy the creativity and am surrounded by creative artists, and I find it immensely rewarding.”

to get his words into decision makers who would eventually bring his films to life. Hollywood is a tough market to crack, and with little headway, Wilson decided to make the change to short projects and market his films by submitting them to film festivals.

commercial. “I learned one page of screenplay equals about one minute on screen. I read books and online education on how to adjust my writing style.”

During his first year in Gig Harbor, Wilson wrote a dozen 100-plus page feature-film screenplays. He hired a professional marketer in Los Angeles

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His first film, “Trick Shop,” debuted at the Gig Harbor Film Festival last season. Through his previous networking, Wilson was able to assemble local professionals at each level to help him create and execute the film. He learned quickly that once you’ve completed the first draft of your screenplay, the project soon takes on a whole new life of its own. “I sent the first draft out to professionals here and in L.A. and began filtering the criticism. It’s a different kind of criticism, which took some getting used to, but you get new ideas on how to evolve the script and just keep changing it.”

Once his new draft was finalized, it was time for a table read. This involves getting professional actors to get into character and read the script aloud as a group. From here, more adjustments are made based on how the script sounds live. A line producer is called in to go through the script page by page and estimate how much each scene will cost to make; everything

39

from the equipment to catering. After months of shooting and post production, “Trick Shop” was ready for a viewing audience.

Today, submitting a film for festivals is done digitally though a few services. Filmmakers can create a bio, include actors, descriptions, trailers and other marketing information and build their profile on services like ‘Without a Box’ and ‘Film Freeway.’ These sites are connected with film festivals all over the world, so if you hope to show your film locally in Gig Harbor but also feel you have a shot at getting into Sundance or Cannes, you can apply to those with the same service. Once accepted, filmmakers can choose which events they want to attend and are often looking for festivals with a market where they can network with professionals in hopes of striking a deal.

Unlike going to your local mega plex to see the next big superhero movie in 3D, you’ll find a completely different experience at a film festival

like the upcoming Gig Harbor Film Festival in late October. “Moviegoers are looking for excitement and a ride,” said Wilson. “People in our scene look at how to take this art form and bring it to an audience and by the end have them saying, ‘That was thought provoking; let’s talk about what we just experienced.’”

Film festivals often bring in features and shorts from all around the world. In an hour you might encounter a drama in French, a horror film, serious documentary and something completely abstract. Like wine tasting, you might not love everything you try, but the experience will open your mind to new thoughts and ideas.

Wilson has subsequently released his second short feature, “Drowned World,” and is in post production on his third film “Remnants,” which he hopes to premiere in January. Not having a degree from a film school didn’t stop him from achieving his goals and hopes it’s not a deterrent for others with similar dreams. For those hoping

GigHarborLivingLocal.com

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to bring their ideas to the big screen, Wilson offers this advice: If you’re really passionate about it, first learn the structure of screenwriting. Use professional software like ‘Final Draft’ because it helps tremendously. Go to seminars, talks and take night classes from your local college, and be sure to rub elbows with others in the industry to expand your knowledge. Get true feedback from professionals, not just your brother or uncle telling you nice job, and finally, remember, this is a business, too.

If you are looking for inspiration, consider checking out the Gig Harbor Film Festival October 26 through 29 at the Galaxy Theatre. You’ll find feature and short films, documentaries, animated, foreign and locally produced films. Passes are available as individual screenings or unlimited screenings. The 2017 lineup is available at GigHarborFilm.org.

EN!

FIRST

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• Crystals, essential oils, candles, jewelry, oracle cards, books, unique gift items • Self-Publishing Your Book Class Series Sunday, October 15th, 2-5 p.m.

• Learning Oracle Cards, October 12th • Meditation Mondays from 6-7 p.m.

• Intuitive readings, reiki & sound healing • Massage appointments available on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays

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5247 Olympic Dr. NW • Gig Harbor, WA 98335 In the same parking lot as Harbor Greens & MarKee

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NOW OFFERING CATERING

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

ASHLEY FAHEY: Peninsula High School AN AVID RUNNER, SENIOR Ashley Fahey has been on the track and field team for the past three years and will participate again this year. Last year, she joined cross country and not only received her first varsity letter, but also was named the Most Valuable Player for the 2016 season. “I was also nominated as Athlete of the Year for the Tacoma Athlete Commission,” said Ashley, who also lettered in track last spring.

Ashley is not only successful when it comes to sports; she also excels in the classroom.

She is in the National Honor Society and has a 3.98 cumulative GPA and has received the Scholar Athlete certificate on two occasions.

“When I am not running or studying, I enjoy reading, painting and hanging out with friends and family,” said Ashley.

With a wide range of career interests, Ashley said she enjoys math-based sciences and math courses. “However, I am also interested

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in political science and policy making,” she said.

Time management has been a challenge that Ashley has found with sports and academics.

“I overcome this challenge by finding a balance between activities and homework. I found a way to prioritize my academics along with cross country,” she said, adding that she enjoys interacting with her teammates on the cross-country team. “[The team] is filled with people who have positive attitudes,” she said.

One lesson Ashley has learned from her coach is to always push herself harder.

“Pushing harder will not only improve your time, but it will allow you to push past your mental barriers you have during a race,” said Ashley.

THE MONTH

BAILEY WERNER: Gig Harbor High School SENIOR BAILEY WERNER is an example of what dedication to one’s sports and academics can accomplish. With a 4.0 cumulative GPA, Bailey has received the WIAA Scholastic Outstanding Scholar Athlete Award every season in both soccer and softball. She received an honorable mention in her conference for softball and made the Second Team All-League position as well and was voted team captain of this year’s varsity soccer team.

Her success has not come easy. Bailey shared that the biggest challenges she has faced in sports is overcoming her own doubts and insecurities. “Over the past three years, I’ve had to work a lot on my mental toughness,” she said. “I overcame the majority of my insecurities from mistakes I made during practices and games by keeping a positive attitude and learning to play selflessly. Playing for others allows you to put your fears aside and work hard for your teammates.”

While Bailey said she enjoys pushing herself to see how hard she can work on the field, what she really enjoys most is an opportunity to compete with some of her best friends.

“Bonding on and off the field with girls that share a similar love for athletics and academics make practices and conditioning something I can look forward to even on my most difficult days,” she said.

Bailey shares that being involved in sports has taught her that attitude is everything.

“A good work ethic always starts with your mindset, which I think is a valuable lesson no matter what you are doing.”

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Photo Credit

Bailey Werner Portrait courtesy of Lauren Cross Photography.

Open 7 Days A Week

Ashley Fahey head shot by Ashleigh Martin. Action shot is by Kim Rutherford.

GigHarborLivingLocal.com

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FALL COLORS TOUR Now is the time to start exploring the changes in the season

By Lindy Petersen

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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

LAW OFFICES OF TIMOTHY ACKER 3200 Tarabochia Street • Gig Harbor 253.514.6890 • www.rainydayyarns.com Mon-Wed 11-5, Thurs 11-7, Fri 11-5, Sat 10-5 NOW OPEN Sunday 12-4

ROnALd E THOMpSOn

50+ YEARS EXPERIENCE 4102 Harborview Drive, Gig Harbor, WA 253.858.3008 f The Beach Basket Gift Shops / Beach Basket Christmas Shop

Call to join our Group & Private Classes!

Personal Injury Attorneys Estate Planning | Elder Law Probate & Guardianships Voted Top 3

For Best Kept Secret Downtown Stop by and Discover Our Secret Wide Range of Beautiful Yarns Large Selection of Needles, Hooks, Books & Accessories Knitwear, Jewelry & Gifts by Local Artists Custom Orders Always Welcome

Gifts Gig Harbor T-Shirts Sweatshirts Souvenirs Women’s Sportswear Beach Decor Christmas Decor And More!

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Each client will receive individual attention, to carefully analyze your case, advise you on the options, and bring you peace of mind through resolution of the matter.

253-851-0012 4423 Point Fosdick Dr NW Gig Harbor, WA law.timothyacker.com

AUTUMN BRINGS COOL WEATHER and beautiful colors to the Tacoma area in Washington state. It’s the perfect time for family hiking. But where are the best areas in the South Sound area of Tacoma to take a walking tour?

Wright Park Wright Park is one of the best-known areas for a family walking tour. The trail is an easy 1-mile loop, yet the park contains 27 acres of beautiful trees.

The park allows leashed dogs so you can enjoy the changing leaves with all of your family members.

Wildwood Park Wildwood Park is another nature trail located in South Sound. This park contains more than 55 acres of contrasting evergreens and maples. Other attractions include picnic shelters and playgrounds for the kids. The trails are very well maintained and are easy for any age. Some even include fitness stations for those who want an extra challenge.

Where are the best areas in the South Sound area of Tacoma to take a walking tour?

Point Defiance Park Point Defiance has much to offer families visiting Washington state. It’s home to the famous zoo and aquarium as well as numerous gardens and trails.

This makes it a great destination for unpredictable autumn weather. The Japanese garden offers beautiful changing leaves for your enjoyment. There are five marked trails that range from .5 miles to 5 miles, but they can get muddy, so be sure to dress accordingly.

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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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All of these trails offer spectacular views of changing leaves.

Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge

Swan Creek Park

This park has much more to offer a family than changing colors. There is a nature shop and many educational programs for nature lovers of all ages. This is a wildlife refuge, so dogs are not allowed. However, human visitors have plenty of opportunities to view unique wildlife in a natural habitat. Younger children can have fun in the Nature Explore area while older children can complete a workbook (available at the information desk) and earn a Junior Refuge Manager badge and certificate. There is a small fee for the use of the park, so be sure to call ahead to verify the amount. The hiking trails have boardwalks and are easy.

Swan Creek offers fall colors with amenities such as public restrooms and picnic spots. It is located in a tree-filled canyon and is perfect for hiking, biking and bird watching. There are numerous walking and mountain-bike trails which range from easy to advanced. All of these trails offer spectacular views of changing leaves.

McClane Creek Nature Trail Even though this is a short trail, you’ll want to take some time to appreciate all it has to offer.

It’s just over 1 mile but is rich with hemlock,

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vine maple and all kinds of wildlife unique to Washington state. In addition to the beautiful fall colors, there is a beaver pond which is home to chum salmon, newts and a variety of water birds. You will need to purchase a pass to enjoy this park.

Even though Washington is known as The Evergreen State, it still offers many opportunities to enjoy autumn. So pack up the family and enjoy!

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FROM HOMELESS TO HOPE “Same Kind of Different as Me”. By Kellie French

ON OCTOBER 18, THE MOVIE “Same Kind of Different as Me” will be premiering at the Galaxy Uptown IMAX Theatre in Gig Harbor.

The movie includes stars such as Greg Kinnear and Rene Zellweger. Scott Smalling, founder of Relief Bed International, is managing the event, and proceeds will benefit the Tacoma Rescue Mission as well as Relief Bed’s work of meeting the needs of local homeless people as well as victims of natural disasters.

Ron Hall and Denver Moore are the authors of the book the movie is based off of. “Same Kind of Different as Me” was on the New York Times Best Sellers List for three-and-a-half years.

Ron’s wife Deborah had a dream that they were supposed to help someone. The couple met in Denver, Colorado while volunteering in an inner-city homeless shelter. Ron describes Denver as “a giant African American who threatened to kill people.” Deborah told Ron that this was the man they were supposed to help. Ten years earlier, Ron had had an affair

and Deborah had forgiven him. She made him promise to do whatever she asked later in life.

She did not ask until 10 years later—when she asked Ron to help Denver.

Denver Moore struggled with schizophrenia and continued to push himself through it all; he became a part-time rancher and art dealer. He

“Same Kind of Different as Me” was on the New York Times Best Sellers List for three-and-a-half years. Ron’s wife Deborah had a dream that they were supposed to help someone.

grew up on a plantation and never learned to read or write. He lived with Ron after Deborah passed away. Denver continued to improve his life as his friendship with Ron grew. Shortly after Ron and Denver met, Denver told Ron that he did not want to be a “catch and release”; someone he helped for a little while, but wanted to be sure Ron would be his friend for the long run. The two became great friends, and Denver lived with Ron for 10 years until Denver passed away.

In their fundraising efforts, they have raised $45 million in 17 years. To continue in the fundraising efforts to support those combating homelessness, Scott Smalling says, “I am looking forward to hosting this rare event in Pierce County and am hopeful that the transformative message in this film will resonate with people and help change attitudes and hearts for the homeless.”

SCOTT SMALLING (LEFT) AND RON HALL (RIGHT) AT A PARAMOUNT MOVIE PREMIERE FOR “SAME KIND OF DIFFERENT.”

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One Night Only Red Carpet Movie Premiere October 18th 2017 Doors Open at 6pm

Galaxy Uptown Theatres Gig Harbor Based on the Incredible True Story That Inspired Millions Benefit Supporting

TICKETS ON SALE NOW! www.trm.org/movie/ Limited quantities available

For more information and sponsorship opportunities please contact Scott Smalling; 253-312-0653 or Scott@reliefbed.com GigHarborLivingLocal.com 51

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.

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

GIG HARBOR’S

HOMETOWN

EXPERTS

NARROWS ELECTRIC

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

Whatever your electrical need, call Narrows Electric today!

Gig Harbor—3509 57th St Ct NW 253.851.7077 | NarrowsElectricGH.com gary.narrows.electric@gmail.com f Narrowss Electric Gig Harbor

GREAT CAR CARE CENTER

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

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

Gig Harbor—6750 Kimball Dr. 253.858.1888 GreatCarCareCenter.com

WILLIAMS TREE & STUMP REMOVAL

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

Gig Harbor | 253.229.4119 WilliamsTreeandStump.com f Williams Tree and Stump

Did you hear?

Winners announced on pg 56!

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CUSTOM PRINTS NW

CLEAN & CLEAR WINDOWS

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

Call or email for a free design consultation today, by appointment only. When you need orders on time and looking great, contact Custom Prints NW!

Clean & Clear Windows and owner Steve Greco brings a new level of clean to your home or business, with over 12 years experience in the window cleaning industry. They are licensed, bonded and insured for residential, commercial, interior and exterior window cleaning applications. FREE Estimates!

Your satisfaction is their goal. LIC# CC CLEANCW855KQ Gig Harbor | 253.225.3630 CCWindowPros.com

Gig Harbor—2801 Hollycroft St. 253.225.7725 Jessica@CustomPrintsNW.com CustomPrintsNW.com

CRUISE PLANNERS TRAVEL SERVICES

FIX AUTO

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

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

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

Save time and let them do the booking for you.

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

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

NE ED

A BODY SHOP ?

CARPET CARE NORTHWEST

Carpet Care Northwest

EDGE PILATES STUDIO

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

Phone 253.874.4377 carpetcarenw@comcast.net CarpetCareNW.com

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

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

VALONA PAINTING COMPANY

ANCHOR BAY MORTGAGE (MB-71863)

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

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

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PAINTING COMPANY COATING AND SPECIALTY CONTRACTOR

53

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

Corner

The Holiday Season Is Just Around The

Get in the spirit with custom holiday lighting from Clean & Clear Windows

BY JILLIAN CHANDLER

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FALL IS UPON US, which means the holiday season is soon to arrive! And what better way to get in the spirit than with custom holiday lighting provided by Clean & Clear Windows.

Owner Steve Greco will make your home holiday ready, working with you to find the right design you want at a price that will fit your budget.

Whether you’re looking to wrap your trees and landscaping with mini lights or adorn the outline of your gutter’s peaks or roof line with bright clear bulbs, traditional multi-color or any combination of lights you desire, Steve will bring your vision to fruition.

You call and make the appointment, and they provide the lights, installing them with precision; seamless spacing and no hanging wires or exposed wires (if possible). There’s nothing Steve and his crew can’t do. “We provide the timers and program them to come on and go off when you want—up to seven on/ off times per day! … We also will replace any bulbs that happen to go out and maintain them if needed. Hassle free from installation to take down, and we label and store your lights for next year all for one reasonable price.”

From any style of bulbs you like, any color you like, Clean & Clear Windows will cater to your desired lighting preference. According to Steve, customers can choose from c9 clear bulbs—the brightest and most popular—smaller c7s, LED, mini lights and more, all at a great value.

“We have many years of professional holiday lighting experience and many very happy customers,” says Steve. “It’s very rewarding for us to bring the holiday spirit to people safely, [brightening] up their house and having their neighbors compliment them on their lights.

Seeing the completed job is always the best part, especially at night.”

As Steve advises, no homeowner should ever attempt to install holiday lighting, and that it’s best to let trained professionals do the job.

“There’s nothing worse than a fall off the roof to ruin the holidays,” he says. “With professional commercial-grade lighting, you won’t have to worry about lights shorting out or wires getting hot. We are also fully licensed, insured and bonded for your peace of mind. No job is too big or too small or too high! We work in any weather conditions with high-quality heavyduty rain gear and safety equipment while you can stay warm, dry and safe inside your home and enjoy your lights throughout the holidays, without dreading the take-down process. We’re here to take care of all of that for you.”

“Our goal is to earn another happy customer who returns for our lighting service and our other services for many years,” says Steve.

Clean & Clear Windows Gig Harbor, Washington 253.225.3630 ccwindowpros@gmail.com CCWindowPros.com

With a focus on exceptional customer service, your experience with Clean & Clear Windows will be friendly, helpful and leave you feeling joyful, safe and secure knowing Steve has you covered. Clean & Clear Window lighting services are offered in Gig Harbor, Port Orchard, Olalla, Gig Harbor, Tacoma, University Place and the Federal area.

The lights start going up November 1, with installation continuing through December 24 and beyond—if your desire is to have lights for the rest of the year. Don’t wait! Call Steve at Clear & Clean Windows today and reserve your appointment, as the schedule will fill up fast!

And of course, throughout the year, Clean & Clear Windows provides window cleaning in addition to roof cleaning/moss removal, moss treatments, gutter cleaning, pressure washing and more.

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Satisfied Customer “Steve is responsible for making our house look beautiful and festive all through the holidays by installing outdoor lights on our (very tall) roof line. This is our second year for this service, and we plan to contact him every year. Thanks, Steve!”

- J. Engelland

Gig Harbor Living Local’s

Finest 2017

gH Gi

ar bo

Congratulations to all of our Gig Harbor’s Finest WINNERS. Announcements were made at our First Annual Awards Night at the Gig Harbor Yacht Club on October 6.

rL

ivin

g L ocal’s Fines

t

Title Sponsor

Thank you to our sponsors for helping support an evening of celebration for our local businesses.

Sponsored By

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ar Aw

ds

Congratulations!

Anti-Aging Business:

Jewelry:

Hear For Life Audiology

Maritime Jewelers

Brewery:

Best Kept Secret for Downtown Shopping:

7 Seas Brewing

Tickled Pink

Builder:

Best Kept Secret for Uptown Shopping:

Brett Marlo Design Build

Cup of Coffee:

Gameday Sports Shop Gig Harbor

MarKee Coffee

Law Firm:

Professional & Customer Service:

Salazar Law Offices

Mackert Automotive

Newest Business:

Drinks:

KnifeForkSpoon

Heritage Distilling Company

Non-Profit:

Employer:

Gig Harbor Downtown Waterfront Alliance

Devoted Kiss Cafe

Pizza:

Evening Entertainment:

Millville Pizza Co.

Olalla Vineyard & Winery

Preschool:

Financial Services:

Gig Harbor Academy

Edward Jones - Erin R. Abrigo

Realtor:

Eats:

Sandy Jones - Windermere

Brix 25

Small Business:

Retirement Community:

The Weathered Cottage

Family First Adult Family Homes

Spa Services:

Fitness Center:

Jax Salon + Spa

Better Gym

Tastings:

Franchise: Main & Vine

Moctezuma’s Mexican Restaurant

Hair Salon:

Wedding Venue: Chapel On Echo Bay

A Prima Salon

Health Care:

Gig Harbor Living Local’s Community Mission Award:

Peninsula Natural Health

Creative & Home Services: Outside The Box Woodworking

Interior Designer: Alinda Morris Interior Design LLC

2017

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Greater Gig Harbor Foundation 57

Health & Lifestyle T H E H E A LT H B E N E F I T S O F I M P R O V E D P O S T U R E

We Are What We Do Every Day

By Susan Moore, Owner, Better Gym & Better Eats, Gig Harbor

HAVE YOU EVER HEARD THE SAYING “You can’t out train a bad diet?” If you spend any time with me, you’ve heard it a time or 12. If we aren’t mindful of our diet, all the good work we do at the gym or outside could be hidden by our lack of caloric or nutritional accountability. But really, for true wellness, it goes much deeper than what you do or don’t eat. It’s about little and big details of your daily life from how you walk to how you sleep, sit or even communicate. If there is something in your life you don’t like, this is a great time to look at what you can do to help yourself. Change a daily habit and you just might change your life.

Do you have back pain and never had an injury that can take credit for it? Or constant neck pain that your friends and family say is from the weight of the world you carry on your shoulders? In our current American culture, most back and neck pain can be summed up by one common flaw that most of us have. Bad posture. Can’t deny it, can you?

You probably also think I’m wrong, but I’m most likely not. Not just your sitting posture but your standing posture, computer posture, studying posture, work posture, getting dressed posture, eating posture, on-thephone posture, on-the-potty posture, texting posture … I could go on forever. Many modern-day conveniences have led to aches and pains.

H E A LT H Y T I P

Toss some blueberries on it Blueberries are youth berries. Even frozen blueberries are so packed with antioxidants that just ½ cup can double the antioxidant power of most people's diets. So don't be shy!

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Really, for true wellness, it goes much deeper than what you do or don’t eat. It’s about little and big details of your daily life from how you walk to how you sleep, sit or even communicate.

Seems counterintuitive to try and make life easier and end up unhealthy. The old adage about there not being any real shortcuts seems to always ring true.

The most prevalent pain I hear about is low back pain. As a physical trainer it is out of my scope to diagnose, so once we have been cleared by medical I ask my clients to do a couple of simple tasks. I might ask them to pretend to tie their shoe, pick something up off the floor or sit on the floor and stand back up again. It is immediately evident if their daily postural habits could be a contributing factor in their pain. Just because a movement doesn’t hurt at the time doesn’t mean it isn’t causing a problem. If you continuously round your back during daily activities, it isn’t if, but when, will the back pain begin.

This doesn’t mean that all back pain is caused by poor posture, but I have never seen a case where daily compression of the lumbar spine hasn’t made whatever is going on worse. The easiest fix is to learn the hip hinge; to get your hands to or closer to the floor, reach toward

your toes (being mindful not to round your back) and get your rear end out of the way. These are literally the most common cues to deadlift a barbell, which is a form of powerlifting. If you have unexplained low back pain, try not rounding your back for a week and see what happens.

Another pain that can usually be prevented is upper-back or thoracic pain. Again, it could be from a number of problems, but once your doctor has told you they don’t see any reason for you to be in pain, check your communication habits. Do you cradle your phone between your shoulder and head? Do you look down to text or to just look at your phone all day? Or do you have a job in front of the computer and are sitting all day? The answers to fixing these problems really are found in the questions themselves.

Don’t have your phone lower than eye level, don’t keep it between your shoulder and ear and, for the love of all that is holy, stand up every so often and sit without slouching!

With the new year around the corner, how about you keep this year simple. Change a habit a month. It could be to eat a vegetable at every meal, stop texting while driving, eating and/or walking, or getting eight hours of sleep each night. Because if you don’t start paying attention to what you do most of the day, the 4 percent of your day you spend in the gym won’t prevent you from having pain.

You have the ability to be your own advocate.

We only get one body in this life, take care of it!

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Gig Harbor Chiropractic & Massage www.GigHarborWellness.com

Dr. Greg Messer Dr. Keri Messer

253.857.6500

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

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

DON’T WAIT TOO LONG

ARE YOU AT RISK FOR ORAL HEAD AND NECK CANCER? THE SIXTH MOST PROMINENT CAUSE OF CANCER IN THE UNITED STATES

BY RHONDA R. SAVAGE, DDS, UPTOWN DENTAL GIG HARBOR

IN 2015, ONE PERSON DIED every hour, each day, from oral cancer. This could be you, your spouse, your partner, family member, friend or co-worker. As women, we routinely elect to have a Pap smear and mammogram each year to look for cervical or breast cancer.

But do you look for early signs of head and neck cancer as part of your wellness plan? Men may have a PSA (Prostate-Specific antigen) test or a colonoscopy to check for abnormalities in the prostate or colon, but do you have an oral cancer screening exam by your dentist?

Sadly, many haven’t been informed about the need for such an examination. Others are aware of the risk but don’t see the importance because he or she thinks they’re not at risk. I believe that education is increasingly important for you because you should be a partner in your well-being. The simple truth is that the majority of head and neck cancer is caught at a late stage, when it’s spread to the blood vessels and lymphatic system. Found at an early stage, the chance for survival improves by 80 to 90 percent. Caught at a late stage, you, your family or your friend may experience facial and neck deformity. Issues with daily function like swallowing, tasting and speaking are common.

Cost of treatment, anxiety and stress increase at this stage.

The simple truth is that the majority of head and neck cancer is caught at a late stage, when it’s spread to the blood vessels and lymphatic system. Found at an early stage, the chance for survival improves by 80 to 90 percent.

What should you look for?

• An ulcer in your mouth, or a sore that doesn’t heal within two weeks • Difficulty or pain when swallowing • Feeling like there’s something in your throat • A swelling or a painful lump in the mouth • A persistent sore throat or hoarse voice • An earache that lasts for more than a few days • Pain when chewing • Numbness in the mouth or lips

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The good news is that there are early diagnostic methods: We use the Identify oral cancer detection light system and do a thorough head and neck exam. We also work with OralDNA; a simple gargle of salt water and a spit can be tested for exposure to the HPV viral strains that are the leading cause of head and neck cancer. Highly accurate, non-invasive, easyto-use chair-side tests now exist to provide information about the presence of head and neck cancer.

Be proactive in your health care. Make sure you receive a thorough screening. Clinically, it’s called a ‘visual screening with palpation.’

In other words, looking and feeling inside the mouth, visualizing the back of the throat and feeling the neck. Ask if you can hold the hand mirror and watch. Ask if you can be told what they’re looking and feeling for, plus ask questions. Tell your dentist if you have noticed anything odd when swallowing, peculiar sore throats or coughing/clearing throat. Ask friends and family if they receive the same care at their dental checkup.

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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DIABETES AND HEARING HEALTH MONITOR YOUR BLOOD SUGAR AND YOUR EARS!

BY DEANNA IFF, AU.D., CCC-A WRITTEN FOR HEAR FOR LIFE AUDIOLOGY

ACCORDING TO THE CENTERS for Disease Control (CDC), 30.3 million people in the United States have diabetes. That’s 9.4 percent of the population. Of that number, 30.2 million are adults aged 18 and older, which equals 12.2 percent of all U.S. adults. We have all heard that the incidence of diabetes is on the rise, with the number increasing from 1.6 million in 1958 to 23.4 million in 2015, to 30.2 million today. Regardless of root cause, it is very well-known that the complications related to diabetes are many. Of those many, hearing loss is one that is frequently overlooked.

Voted Top 3

Hearing loss occurs about twice as often in adults with diabetes as in adults without, according to a study conducted by the National Institutes for Health (NIH). For adults with pre-diabetes, meaning those with higher than normal blood glucose levels but not high enough for a diabetes diagnosis, the likelihood of hearing loss is increased by 30 percent. Although the cause of this relationship is unknown, the explanation most commonly given is that high blood glucose levels lead to damage to blood vessels in the cochlea, which is the organ responsible for hearing. This damage disrupts the neural connections and biochemistry of the cochlea, causing hearing loss.

Even a mild hearing loss can be enough to cause significant difficulty communicating, which can lead to misunderstandings with family, friends and medical professionals.

The successful management of any medical condition relies upon clear communication regarding instructions and expectations between doctors and patients. The volume of

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instructions often received at appointments can already be overwhelming, and when complicated by difficulty hearing the doctor’s instructions, that feeling can be heightened exponentially. The trepidation stemming from difficulty with communication can also lead to increased anxiety prior to appointments or other outings, and the associated stress can exacerbate symptoms and existing conditions.

While all adults should have their hearing tested at least every few years, it becomes more important for those with other chronic health conditions to monitor their hearing for changes. Adults with diabetes (or other similar autoimmune or metabolic conditions, including kidney disease) should have their hearing tested more frequently. Annual examinations are recommended, and testing can always be completed sooner if changes are noticed. As rates of hearing loss and diabetes both increase with age, the older adults among our friends and family should be given special attention to ensure that they are able to participate in all their activities as fully as they wish.

With appropriate treatment and cooperation between individuals and health-care providers, neither hearing loss nor diabetes must result in significantly diminished quality of life. By making sure communication is as clear as possible, adults with diabetes can be included more fully in managing their health and their lives. If you are concerned about your hearing, or that of a friend or loved one, consult with an audiologist and/or your doctor for a comprehensive hearing test.

REFLEXOLOGY SHOE FIT AND YOUR HEALTH

PICK THE FIT

BY DARCIE MILLER, OWNER, LIGHT IN BALANCE REFLEXOLOGY

WE ALL HAVE OUR favorite pair of shoes— some we have worn forever. Proper shoe fit is an important step in your health care. If you are wearing shoes that do not fit properly or are broken down because of their age, it’s time to get refitted and buy some new ones. As adults, we don’t change in shoe size like children, and most of us have probably worn the same size shoe for years. Wearing the wrong size shoe can be harmful to you. Improperly fitted shoes can rub or create a squeezing or friction on reflex areas and over time can actually add to or create a health issue. You may also feel exhausted and in ill health at the end of your workday by wearing the wrong size and type of shoe.

Conditions such as bunions, hammertoes and claw toes can be created from the way we walk and the type of shoes we wear. For instance, flip-flops have nothing to hold them onto your feet except your toes. Notice when you walk in flip-flops how your foot works to hold them on; you grip your toes to hold on to the front trying to keep it on your foot. Reflex points for your brain are in your toes. Crunching your toes to hold on also puts pressure on your neck reflexes. Wearing shoes that are too narrow for your feet causes pressure on the joints in your big toe, thus pushing your bones out of joint and possibly causing a bunion. Reflexes for your neck and upper thoracic spine are located here.

Optimal Shoe fit: • Toes fit nicely in the toe box without being scrunched.

• Heal fits snuggly without rubbing or sliding up and down.

• Arch is supported but still able to flex as you walk.

• Shoe stays on your foot when you walk with no effort.

A Holistic alternative to improved health

• Feet and body feel good when you put shoes on.

• Shoe should look like the shape of a foot.

• Match shoe style to activity.

It’s wise to try on the shoes and maybe even try a size up or down depending on the manufacturer. Most people have one foot that is larger than the other, and some shoe stores will sell you a pair of shoes with two different sizes—just ask. If you have shoes that are old and they fit well, you can take them to a shoe maker or repair shop and have the sole, heel and instep replaced. Some brands actually encourage you to bring the shoes in to have this done and include that in the price of the shoes.

Your reflexologist can assist with your tired, achy feet and bodies by gently working the reflex areas which may also help create more mobility in the bones and joints, thus affecting your overall health. He or she can also measure your feet and suggest what size and width shoe would be best for you.

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Available Sessions: • • • • • • • • •

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

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

01

ENJOY THE OUTDOORS IN ALL

SEASONS Wherever you might live, there are unlimited options for getting out and enjoying a productive and healthy life.

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02

SEASONAL ACTIVITIES FOR A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

By Lindy Petersen

MAINTAINING A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE is not a seasonal activity. It’s something that we strive to do year round. Getting in shape and staying in shape should be easy to do no matter what time of year it is. Maintaining a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle can be challenging, but we all know the rewards are endless. Seasonal activities can be planned ahead of time or can be spontaneous adventures; the choice is yours.

Starting a garden is rewarding all year long. Being outside, caring for your plants and reaping the rewards at harvest time are all benefits of one of the healthiest activities you can learn. Gardening or farming is truly a lifestyle that will benefit your physical health. Being able to share your gardening skills is also a great way to stay active in your community. Why not join your local gardening club, or even start one of your own?

Wherever you might live, there are unlimited options for getting out and enjoying a productive and healthy life. Here are some activities listed by season that will get you out and moving all year long!

Personally, spring is my favorite time of year to travel.

The crowds have yet to appear, the weather is almost always perfect, and the prices are often very reasonable.

Trekking up a mountain, lounging on a beach, rafting on the Colorado River and deep-ocean sports fishing are all things that are perfect activities for your next springtime vacation.

Spring Spring is a glorious time of year. Gone are the icy days of winter, and the explosion of color from fresh blossoms can be found everywhere! For those who take the time to notice, baby animals are being born all over the world in the springtime. Hiking is an excellent way to see wildlife as well as the newly blooming flora. National or state parks are wonderful places to go hiking, but if you live near the coast, don’t just settle for long walks on the beach! Coastal hills and bluffs can provide a more challenging hike as well as stunning ocean views!

If you crave a little more adventure, then camping might be the activity for you! Camping is a favorite way to really connect with nature again after those long cold months spent mostly indoors. The mild temperatures at this time of year will make almost any activity possible! Take the whole family and go “glamping” in a cabin, opt for a solo adventure with dispersed camping on BLM land, or choose anything in between, depending on your tastes and budget.

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Summer Summer is, of course, famous for family vacations.

Children are out of school, and most people choose to take advantage of the hot weather to indulge in water sports.

Boating isn’t just for the wealthy and adventurous. Whether you’re fishing or water skiing, boating has been a favorite summer activity for generations. Boats are usually available to rent by the hour or the day at any marina.

Other seasonal activities that will also let you beat the heat in the water are scuba diving, snorkeling, cliff-diving and river-rafting. If you think you’d enjoy an outdoor yoga session, try renting a stand-up paddle board (SUP) and finding a nice calm lake or bay!

If you’re planning a vacation, the Colorado River has long been a favorite summertime destination. Water-skiers and Jet-skiers dash across the river while sun bathers relax in

03

CRAVE

ADVENTURE

If you crave a little more adventure, then camping might be the activity for you!

Camping is a favorite way to really connect with nature again after those long cold months spent mostly indoors. The mild temperatures at this time of year will make almost any activity possible!

floating inner-tubes. Nearby Lake Havasu has a giant hedge maze that most people take hours to find their way out of, offering a nice long walk!

Kayaking can be relaxing or can be an adrenaline rush, depending on where you decide to do it. If you live near a large body of water or a river, it’s financially advantageous to buy your own kayak. But if you prefer, kayaks can be rented for a reasonable price, usually by the hour. Double kayaks have become quite popular with couples, and kayaking on a still lake at dusk is one of the most romantic things I can imagine doing.

If water sports aren’t your thing, these warmweather months are also great for visiting local farms and farmers markets. Wander up and down rows of vine-ripened berries or through an avocado orchard. Many farms have a “pickyour-own” special, allowing you to spend a day outdoors and gather your own fresh fruits and vegetables, many times at a fraction of what

they might cost in the store. This activity is one you may want to share with friends and family.

Outdoor cooking is always a summertime favorite. The variety of local produce during these months makes experimenting with healthy recipes easy. Building an outdoor oven isn’t just a great way to stay out of a hot kitchen but can be a focal point for a social gathering.

Detailed instructions for building an outdoor kitchen of any sort are readily available online.

There are many great recipes for healthy breads and pizzas, stews and paleo foods–whatever your preferences, outdoor cooking is a healthy and wonderfully social activity.

Summertime is also prime music and movie festival time! Try volunteering to help with setup at your local festivals. It’s hard work, a great workout, and you may even get free tickets to the event!

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Autumn As the seasons change and the holidays sneak up on us, many people begin to focus on family gatherings and company parties. Of course, this also means focusing on food and drink. While this is a wonderful time of year, it’s important to not let your active lifestyle suffer. You can enjoy the changing of the seasons outdoors as well as indoors. Walking burns more calories than you might think and is an amazing way to really take in the fall colors. Set a goal of walking at least one hour every day during the autumn months, and you won’t have to worry about those company parties adding inches to your waistline!

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04

While many people might not consider stargazing to be an activity, sometimes getting to the best stargazing spots can be! Finding an out-of-the-way place, away from city lights, can be challenging and fun. After a day spent searching for the perfect spot at the top of a mountain, you’ll be more than happy to relax and watch for a shooting star, spot your favorite constellation or just quietly gaze at the stunning Milky Way Galaxy.

Fall is apple-harvesting time! Many communities with apple orchards have harvest festivals and cider or pie contests! While Washington state is famous for its fall harvests, if you’re near California, try the towns of Ojai

or Julian. Each October brings bushels of apples and tons of activities surrounding the orchards.

Winter The long, cold nights and chilly, sometimes snowy days, make outdoor activities seem less appealing to some during the winter months.

Don’t let the cold weather stall your active lifestyle! There are more things to do outdoors at this time of year than you might realize. If you don’t already live near an area laden with snow, plan a trip to Lake Tahoe or Aspen, or any nearby mountain! If you have never been cross-country skiing, there are lessons

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available almost anywhere where there’s snow.

Cross-country skiing is a great cardio workout, and you don’t even have to buy a lift pass! It can be a great way to explore a new area, too!

For a little more adrenaline in your life, try sledding or snowmobiling. Sledding can be an all-day family activity, and snowmobiling can get you to your favorite ice-fishing hole! Why not give both a try? If you live in a really cold area, you can try the Polar Bear Challenge, where people run to a body of water (usually a lake) and jump in! Just a quick dunk is said to be invigorating to the body and the spirit!

Don’t forget to have someone film your jump; the Internet is just wild for these amazing

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05 Other seasonal activities that will also let you beat the heat in the water are scuba diving, snorkeling, cliff-diving and river-rafting. If you think you’d enjoy an outdoor yoga session, try renting a stand-up paddle board (SUP) and finding a nice calm lake or bay!

TRY

videos. There are Polar Bear Clubs popping up all over the world!

From ice skating at your local rink, to building a snowman with the kids, snowy days are a great chance to get out and be active. You’ll appreciate the hot chocolate by a roaring fire in the evening.

If you’re just not a fan of the snow or cold weather, try joining a gym with an indoor pool or rock-climbing wall. You can also take a hot yoga class to warm your core. Alternatively, you can maintain your active lifestyle right from home! Organizing your closet, performing any home repairs you might have been putting off,

cleaning out your garage—these are all things that will keep you moving while getting some chores out of the way so that when better weather rolls around, you’ll be ready to get out there and make the most of it!

This is a great time of year to learn a new skill: canning, knitting, sewing, woodworking or learning to make stained-glass window ornaments. You can make your own personalized gifts for the holidays or just become a little more self-sufficient. Indoor activities are all around, and staying active is as easy as watching a few videos and shopping for some supplies.

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THIS

Hopefully, the ideas here have given you some inspiration to get out and find some new things to do this year. Whatever you decide to do to make—or keep—your lifestyle healthy and exciting, don’t forget to relax every once in a while and enjoy the company of friends and a meal with your family. Sharing activities year round and staying socially active is vitally important to maintaining emotional health.

Now, no matter what time of year it might be, get out there and do something fun!

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INTERVIEWS WITH THE PROFESSIONALS

By Patty Hutchens Have you ever been interested in what oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s typical day looks like in a given profession? Perhaps you thought you may want to go into medicine, or maybe opening your own retail shop appeals to you. Having a passion for what you do will not only assist you in being successful, but it will mean the difference between being happy to go to work or dreading that morning alarm clock.

We asked some people in our community to share with us about their chosen profession. Here is what some of our local business people had to say.

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Pearly Whites Rhonda Savage, DDS Uptown Dental Gig Harbor UptownDentalGigHarbor.com

My stress and fun are all rolled into one while I stretch and lean, working in a dark, wet environment. Patients with numb lips, nitrous oxide and oral sedation can make it easier. I’m a general dentist, a former U.S. Navy lieutenant commander attached to the Marine Corp, plus past president of the Washington State Dental Association.

Polar bear teeth, leopards, monkeys and ET the Walrus; I’ve had the honor of being a volunteer dentist for the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium. [I’m a] dental speaker and consultant, plus a practicing dentist. My life is awesome, and I’m honored to be a dentist!

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

WOMAN WITH A PLAN Cheri Johnson Financial Advisor/Planner Strategic Wealth Advisors LLC StrategicWealthAdv.com/Cheri-Johnson.5.htm

www.StrategicWealthAdv.com

253-858-4411

Investment Advisor Representative of USA Financial Securities.

Member FINRA/SIPC. A Registered Investment Advisor.

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Though I deal with numbers, statistics and lots of data, I see my primary position as an unbiased problem-solver.

Every client comes with a unique set of circumstances, goals, family dynamics, challenges, fears, etc. It’s my job to create solutions while remaining objective and laser-focused on the outcomes. The best part of my day is helping clients accomplish their goals. I consider myself a financial partner and trusted advisor to my clients. There is tremendous satisfaction in creating well thought-out investment approaches, financial plans, retirement income strategies or legacy plans that provide peace of mind to my clients. There is always someone who needs help—and that’s what I’m here for.

fun, honest, thoughtful Abbie Cates KnifeForkSpoon FrozenKnifeForkSpoon.com Here at KnifeForkSpoon, our founding values are to make sure that everything we do is fun, honest, thoughtful, delicious, healthy, homemade and high quality. Those simple words guide me through each day. Tough day: Am I finding fun and joy in each moment?

Less-than-happy customer: Did we thoughtfully consider their perspective? I firmly believe that everything will always work out. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s my job to keep this thought front and center. The way I act has a direct impact on not only my employees, but my customers, too. I strive to make sure that each person that steps through our doors feels the founding values every time they interact with KnifeForkSpoon.

Outside The Box Woodworking David & Kelley Samudosky, owners OutsideTheBoxWoodworking.com Thinking outside the box, enjoying the process and having patience are essentials for our company. Not getting discouraged when hiccups happen along the way but being able to use them as a learning opportunity is critical to our work. Providing education is what we offer to potential clients, and striving to not be salespeople.

Dedication, flexibility, creativity and ingenuity are a given as a small business, but the key element of our company is taking time with people. Getting to know our clients makes the long, hard days in a dusty shop all worthwhile because we know that what weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re working on is something that will be loved.

Creative Ingenuity GigHarborLivingLocal.com

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Relationships Linda Petersen The Linda Petersen Team Keller Williams Realty GigHarborHomes.com Our philosophy: Relationships and transparency are our No. 1 priorities which helped us, the Linda Petersen Team, achieve No. 1 in client satisfaction in Gig Harbor and surrounding areas 21 years in a row.

Local knowledge and legacy - As a full-service real estate team with more than 60 combined years of domestic and international prowess, we counsel our clients through the complex procedures of “contract real estate law” to successful closings. We communicate, inform and educate our customers through every step of the purchase process and sale process. Our proven market and data analysis, along with our ability to negotiate and network across broad demographics, set our clients apart from their competition.

Sue McCullough & Terry Denend, owners Rightsizing for Seniors RightsizingForSeniors.com Rightsizing for Seniors is about caring people helping seniors begin a new chapter. Seniors are overwhelmed sorting through 50 years of memories.

That’s when Rightsizing for Seniors takes them by the hand and guides them through the transition to their new home. When we hire team members, we look for someone who is committed to helping people. We laugh, we cry, we celebrate successes with our clients.

Sure, we are good at organizing, packing and making a new home safe and inviting. But it’s the emotional challenges our clients face that are important.

We listen to their stories, help them let go of their treasures and congratulate them on achieving what they believed would be impossible.

Organizing Life

PHOTO COURTESY OF PHS FACEBOOK

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PLEASE JOIN US IN TAKING ACTION Against Hunger in Our Community.

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Grandchildren coming to visit?

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Delivery, set up and pick up available.

1 in 4 kids in our community face hunger.

Through #Community Harvest YOU can help provide 12,000 meals to local families in need this year.

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IT’S TIME FOR HOLIDAY LIGHTS!

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MAKE A DIFFERNCE DAY Saturday, Oct. 28 - 10am to 3pm 7191 Wagner Way NW Gig Harbor, WA (253) 514-6338

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Schedule your Well-deserved Spa Day Today!

We Provide: Spa Packages Massage Waxing Body Treatments Facials & Skincare Lash Extensions Nail Care Spray Tanning

For Yourself or Someone You Love *Appointments & Gift Certificates Can Easily Be Made or Purchased Online

LOVE OF LEARNING Mary Ellen Houston and Stuart Chisholm Husband-and-wife team and owners of Olalla Vineyard and Winery OlallaWines.com Running a vineyard, winery and tasting room is an exciting adventure and one that keeps us very busy. We make a great team because Mary Ellen is an extrovert who loves working with people and takes pride in ensuring customer satisfaction. Stuart is more of an introvert who prefers the outdoors, tending to the gardens and the vineyard. Our talents and interests are different and complement one another.

We both love to learn new things, which is important because there are so many different aspects of the business that are ever-evolving.

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What does it take to run a business like ours? A love of vines, wines, people and hard work as well as dedication, passion for what we are doing and bags of patience! All of this couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be possible without our wonderful and amazing customers!

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Enhance your home!

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

Family owned & operated, since 1980

www.RobbYoung.com

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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MAKE TRACKS

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vacation home specialists

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GIVING BACK

Nonprofits are the heart of community

By Patty Hutchens

I

magine finally having the courage to escape a domestic violence situation and walking out the door from your home with nothing but the shirt on your back. Or what if you were a foster child who aged out of the system overnight and suddenly find yourself alone?

A fire engulfs your home and takes all your precious belongings. These and many other situations have left countless people with nowhere to turn. Fortunately, for the last 10 years, Northwest Furniture Bank in Tacoma has been working to make a difference in the lives of others.

Jeremy Simler is the director of development for Northwest Furniture Bank. He left his job in the banking industry more than four years ago to join this nonprofit and has not looked back. Describing himself as heartless and soulless at the time, he said he now finds fulfillment in helping people each day, giving them back the hope, dignity and stability that each person deserves.

“I can fall asleep with my heart and soul fulfilled,” said Simler.

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The Northwest Furniture Bank has more than 150 referral partners in Pierce County alone. For instance, if someone’s home is destroyed by fire, the Red Cross will refer those people to Northwest Furniture Bank, who will then help him or her furnish a new place.

Simler provides the example of a woman and four children who may be referred to Northwest Furniture Bank due to escaping a domestic violence situation. “A volunteer will take them through the furniture bank and assist them with shopping. The family can pick out five mattresses, a couch, a dining table, chairs and more. There is a $75 processing fee no matter how much furniture is needed by the client,” said Simler. “We can provide them with everything they need to make a house a home.”

There are three different modules to Northwest Furniture Bank: the retail store, Hope Furnishings, which sells furniture pieces to the public and helps to generate revenue; Spring Back Mattress Recycling, which takes in and inspects mattresses and either refurbishes or recycles them;

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PHOTO COURTESY OF NORTHWEST FURNITURE BANK

PHOTO COURTESY OF NORTHWEST FURNITURE BANK

and the furniture bank, which provides home furnishings to those who find themselves in need.

“This has been a pretty phenomenal undertaking in our community,” said Simler of the number of people they are able to help.

In August alone they recycled over 5,000 mattresses. The purpose of the program is to not only create employment opportunities within their company but also divert mattress waste from landfills and provide re-purposed mattresses and a revenue source for Northwest Furniture Bank.

In August, Northwest Furniture Bank assisted 155 families, a huge testimony to the work they do. Simler encourages people to do what they can to give back to their community in any way they can.

“Some of us have a gift of time. Some of us have the gift of money. Some of us have the gift of wisdom and insight to help in a certain situation,” said Simler. “Everyone has something. Figure out what ‘it’ is and give it away.” He guarantees that as one who gives back, you will be rewarded with a renewed spirit and soul.

Establishing a Nonprofit While not everyone who desires can undertake something as grand as Northwest Furniture Bank, there are several who have fulfilled their desire to give back to the community by establishing a nonprofit.

Kim Diercks is the president of 7B Women, Inc., a nonprofit in Sandpoint, Idaho. The nonprofit holds monthly networking and educational luncheons and organizes three large fundraising events throughout the year

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to donate money back into the community to women’s shelters, cancer groups that assist local patients and families, and more. It is something she finds very rewarding.

“I think the most important function of a nonprofit is to give back to our local communities,” said Diercks, who works for Columbia Bank in Sandpoint. “In the banking industry, we are serving individuals and businesses in our communities every day, so I’m fortunate to work for a community bank that has a ‘sense of community’ as one of its core values and is one that supports my nonprofit work.”

Diercks and five other women formed their nonprofit earlier this year, and the support it has received has been amazing, already raising several thousand dollars for local charities.

“I am very fortunate in my personal life, so I

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PHOTO COURTESY OF NORTHWEST FURNITURE BANK

feel it’s important to help others who aren’t as lucky,” said Diercks of her desire to be involved in nonprofit groups. “I am active in the causes that are important to me. I grew up with a father in the military, so I’ve lived in many different places. But I’ve never been anywhere with such a strong sense of community. It’s what makes Sandpoint such a great place to live.”

by learning new skills, exploring my strengths and weaknesses and creating meaningful relationships.”

Diercks has been involved in several nonprofits and advises that to become a nonprofit there are critical steps to follow.

Alice Sloane, a board member and co-chair of two of 7B Women’s major fundraisers, says being a part of 7B Women, or any nonprofit for that matter, fulfills her passion to help those in need.

First, organize your entity as a trust, corporation or association. This involves writing articles of incorporation and written by-laws. Articles of Incorporation are then filed with the state.

“You must come up with a name, purpose, list of directors, as well as a registered agent,” said Diercks.

“My passion was passed down from my late grandmother. It is a passion and legacy I hope to teach and share with my children,” said Sloane. “Being part of a nonprofit also provides an opportunity to grow and evolve as a person

The by-laws appoint initial directors, and one must provide minutes from the first Board of Directors meeting and include a “purpose” that will qualify for tax-exempt status under 501(c) (3).

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From there, the proposed nonprofit registers with the IRS to obtain an EIN number and applies for tax-exempt status under 501(c) (3) from the federal government with all the aforementioned documents.

One thing to keep in mind when forming a board of directors is to have defined roles.

Draw from people’s strengths and talents so that each person will be comfortable with his or her role. And above all, choose something that you are passionate about.

“Being involved in a nonprofit not only helps to raise awareness and educate others,” said Sloane, “It also empowers people to be their best self.”

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oktoberfest festivals FIND THE BEST IN GERMAN BEER, FOOD AND FUN AT ONE OF THESE ANNUAL EVENTS!

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Oktoberfest Northwest October 6 - 8 You won’t find a bigger Munich-style beer hall in the state than inside the Washington State Fairgrounds in Puyallup during Oktoberfest Northwest (OktoberfestNW.com). The three-day festival not only features the standard food, drink and music, but also the Stein Dash.

Unlike most road races, the water stations along this course include beer, and you can stay about as long as you want at each of the three stops. Oktoberfest Northwest is also home to the ever-popular Hammerschlagen tournament. The goal of the game is to drive a nail into a cross section of wood faster than your opponents. While simple in nature, the game can get ultra competitive, but there are plenty of fun games available for adults and kids alike. Admission is $12 for adults and children 12 and younger are free.

Leavenworth Oktoberfest October 6 - 7 & October 13 -14 The granddaddy of them all is a pilgrimage often planned out many months in advance. It’s probably too late to secure a room or rental for the weekend, but if you can find a way, it’s definitely worth the trip. Thousands come from all around for the massive celebration that includes four venues. People-watching is incredible here with partygoers dressed up in all manner of Bavarian attire. Great music, traditional food and plenty of German beers to choose from keep people coming back each year. If you can’t make it in October, you’ll find the spirit of Bavaria year round in this small mountain town, where everything from the banks to the McDonald’s are done up to look like you’re somewhere in the Alps. Check out LeavenworthOktoberfest.com to see the fun that will be had at this year’s event—and it’s never too soon to start making plans to attend next year.

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Wishtoberfest October 13 How about an Oktoberfest party that is not only tasty and fun but benefits one of the most highly regarded nonprofits in the country? Wishtoberfest debuts this fall as a benefit for the Make a Wish Foundation of Alaska and Washington. Since 1986, the organization has granted more than 6,400 wishes to local children battling life-threatening diseases. Elysian, Fremont, Georgetown and Seattle Cider are just a few of the breweries, wineries and ciderhouses that will be giving out samples. Local caterers and food-truck owners will be providing a wide range of snacks, and there will be a silent auction, music and plenty of dancing as well. The event will be held at the Seattle Design Center, and tickets can be purchased at AKWA.Wish.org/wishtoberfest.

Spokane Oktoberfest October 27 - 29 The Centerplace Event Center in Spokane Valley hosts the third annual Bavarian-themed party. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find two stages of music and entertainment including wiener dog races and other games. Beer gardens will be found both inside and out and will be pouring traditional German beers as well as specially created beers from local and regional brewers. The event is family friendly until 8pm, and children ages 12 and younger get in free all weekend. Passes are $10 per day or $15 gets you a three-day pass with in-and-out privileges. The party benefits the German American Society of Spokane. Plenty of food will be available to pair with your favorite beer. Find more information online at SpokaneOktoberfest.com.

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ICE CLIMBING IN THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST ARE YOU LOOKING FOR YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE?

TRAVEL & LEISURE

BY LINDY PETERSEN MAYBE YOU’VE NEVER HEARD OF ice climbing before and want to get a feel for this novel sport. Maybe you’re into mountain climbing and want to take the challenge to the next level by trying your hand with ice.

Maybe you’re already a pro and are used to the thrill of the adventure; the cold biting into your body, the sheer adrenaline rush that comes with being dizzyingly high above the horizon and relying on your picks and ropes for survival. Regardless of your experience level or where you’ve been able to travel for the ultimate climb, it’s about time for you to check out some of the superb ice climbing locations that can be found in the Pacific Northwest. The mountains offer the best of the best in terms of spectacular views and unique challenges. Many of the treks discussed in this article are known for both their alpine beauty and their challenging aspects, especially given the

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unpredictable and sometimes dangerous weather that can circulate around the Cascadian region.

The Pacific Northwest, or Cascadia, can be defined as the stretch of land in North America bounded by the Atlantic Ocean and the Rocky Mountains, spanning far Northern California all the way up to British Columbia in Canada. If you’re willing to put in the travel time to get to some of these remote locations, the region boasts some amazing peaks for independent ice climbers looking for an adventure, as well as top-quality guided climbs for those just starting out or looking to get a little more experience.

Equipment For Cascadian Mountaineering Although there is a certain set of tools that every ice climber

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REGARDLESS OF YOUR EXPERIENCE LEVEL OR WHERE YOU’VE BEEN ABLE TO TRAVEL FOR THE ULTIMATE CLIMB, IT’S ABOUT TIME FOR YOU TO CHECK OUT SOME OF THE SUPERB ICE CLIMBING LOCATIONS THAT CAN BE FOUND IN THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST.

must have in his or her arsenal, climbing in the Cascadian regions requires a double check of your toolkit. Some equipment that will come in handy or even essential includes the following.

(If you are new to climbing and not sure about the terms used here, please look them up and find the necessary equipment to ensure that your ice climb remains enjoyable and safe.)

• Multiple different types of pitons, or steel spikes. Angled pitons as well as the regular kind are both good to have on hand.

• Cams of sizes ranging from .5 to 4 • At least six to eight single slings, configured as alpine draws • Ice screws, mostly short with a few long ones configured for v-threads • At least 20 meters of tat for rappel anchor creation

Guided Programs For those who have little to no experience with mountain climbing or ice climbing, a guided tour can be a great place to start. There are many programs offered in Cascadia that are highly regarded. Some of these include: The American Alpine Institute, The Mountaineers, Northwest Mountain School, and Helmcken Falls in British Columbia.

• The American Alpine Institute. Located in Washington, the Institute offers a fully equipped gear shop and training programs aimed at all levels from beginner to advanced.

• The Mountaineers. The Mountaineers program offers highly rated introductory classes to vertical climbing and mixed climbing in the Seattle area.

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”

• Northwest Mountain School. The Northwest Mountain School offers climbing trips all over the world but focused on the Northern Cascadian states. Based out of Washington, they are fully certified as climbing instructors and offer different levels of guided tours and trips.

• Helmcken Falls in British Columbia.

Here boasts some of the most rigorous and difficult climbing courses in the world, so is best suited to pro-level ice mountaineers. These incredibly steep and gorgeous climbs include one that features a hole that reaches 100 feet in depth.

Although few professional climbers have ever completed these legendary climbs, there are plenty of easier routes as well.

It is still recommended only for at least intermediate level climbers, however.

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Mount Buckner, Washington During the months of March to October, the icy slopes of Mount Buckner become open to climbers. Named after an early Cascadian pioneer, this technically difficult climb is not for the faint of heart and is best done with some previous experience, but offers some of the best views out there. At its highest point, it stands close to 1,000 feet of elevation and can take up to three or four days to fully climb and explore due to the challenging technical aspects and unpredictable weather.

Mount Fury, Washington Mount Fury is also a very technically challenging climb but has been called one

of the most beautiful and scenic in the area.

Located in North Cascades National Park, the mountain has two equally steep peaks and many glaciers known for their natural beauty and climbing challenges. Definitely have your ice axe sharpened and rope skills triple checked before attempting to take on this multi-day excursion.

Mount St. Helens The renowned Mount St. Helens is one of the lower and more technically easy ice climbs for beginners in the region yet still offers its own challenges, so caution is recommended for those new to climbing. Exposure and low visibility due to snow, fog and cloud cover are things to watch out for here. In order to climb

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this gorgeous peak, you need a permit that is available from May to October each year.

All said and done, ice climbers are some of the most adventurous sportsmen and women out there, with the opportunity to experience thrilling climbs and witness beautiful alpine views that few others get the chance to do.

Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re just starting out or have many years of climbing under your belt, the Pacific Northwest offers peaks that are sure to leave you satisfied.

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Food & Drink YOUR GUIDE TO LOCAL EATS

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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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Food & Drink Recipe ROASTED PUMPKIN SEEDS Recipe courtesy of the Waterfront Farmers Market

Ingredients • 3 cups of pumpkin seeds (1 medium pumpkin yields approximately 1 cup of seeds) • 1 ½ tbsp. salt • Ice water • Additional forms of seasoning if desired

Preparation

• The next day, remove the bowl and use a slotted spoon to dish the seeds onto an aluminum foil-covered baking sheet.

• Preheat oven to 300°F.

• When carving pumpkins, separate the seeds from the stringy insides as much as possible.

• Place the seeds in a colander and run under cold water. Stir with your hand. This cleans the seeds and helps to remove any strings or pulp still attached.

• Place the seeds and salt in a large mixing bowl and fill the bowl with iced water.

• Spread seeds evenly in a single layer on the baking sheet.

• At this point, you can sprinkle the seeds with additional seasoning if desired.

Some suggestions: garlic powder, cayenne pepper or olive oil and dill. All though the original is amazing, the flavor possibilities are endless!

• Stir occasionally and bake for about 45 minutes or until golden brown.

• Stir and cover the bowl with aluminum foil.

• Place the bowl in the refrigerator overnight.

Because pumpkin seeds are high-fiber seeds, they’re able to boost your fiber intake, helping you reach the ideal amount of 50 grams per 1,000 calories consumed.

Best of all, because pumpkin seeds are highly portable and require no refrigeration, they make an excellent snack to keep with you whenever you’re on the go, or they can be used as a quick anytime snack at home, too.

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Arts & Entertainment LOCAL EVENTS & HAPPENINGS

GIG HARBOR FILM FESTIVAL Celebrating its 10th anniversary

By Jillian Chandler Photos by Steve Essig

2017 MARKS THE 10TH ANNUAL Gig Harbor Film Festival. The events takes place October 26 through 29 and will feature more than 60 filmmakers from around the world, all coming together to promote their films, host Q&A sessions and attend public parties at local businesses and homes.

Thursday, October 26, the film festival kicks off with its Opening Night Film and After Party at 7 Seas Brewing, in which 7 Seas is planning an incredible and quintessential Gig Harbor evening—which is sure to be an event not to miss each year. Attendees will get the chance to spend an evening with the filmmakers and enjoy drinks and appetizers in the brewery room. All day Friday and Saturday, the Galaxy Uptown Theatre will show 82 films, in a variety of genres, on two screens. Independent films, feature lengths and shorts, narrative, documentaries, animated and foreign films will show throughout both days. Friday evening is the Filmmaker’s Reception. Held at the Peter and Liz Morkill residence, local film buffs will yet again have the chance to meet and mingle with filmmakers and actors. The event wraps up on Sunday with an Awards Brunch at The Hub, followed by re-screenings of audience favorites at the Galaxy.

“This event is something Gig Harbor Locals can be very proud of,” says Jenny Wellman, Gig Harbor Film Festival executive director. “The organization is committed to educating, entertaining and inspiring both audiences and filmmakers alike, while enriching the cultural and economic vitality of our community.”

See why filmmakers are choosing The Gig Harbor Film Festival as their favorite screening event of the year. For more information on this year’s Gig Harbor Film Festival and to purchase VIP passes to all the films and parties, as well as a variety of customizable a la carte ticket purchase options, visit GigHarborFilm.org online or call 253.851.3456.

“I envision our picturesque little town becoming the next Park City of international film festival locations,” says Melanie Kerr, public relations coordinator. “We have all the components—and then some!—for this festival to do great things for our local arts, culture and economic scenes.”

Don’t miss this exciting weekend that celebrates the art of film!

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

OCT

Blues & Brews Fundraiser

07 OCT

07

OCT

07

Autumn Sip & Stroll

Have a great time while supporting your Civic Center at their Blues and Brews Fundraiser Saturday, October 7. Doors open at 6:30pm with music starting at 7:30pm. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Dinner is available for $10 and features brats and fall fare, with vegetarian options available. Visit KPCivicCenter.org for more information and to purchase tickets.

Scarecrow Festival

OCT

This festival is an autumn celebration ideal for the entire family with live entertainment and music, farm animals, hay rides, camel and pony rides, carnival games, food and fair treat vendors. The event also features a Scarecrow Competition with entries created by local businesses, community groups and families. PenMetParks.org

07

Key Peninsula Farm Tour

Gather kids and friends for a fall day of free family fun! Explore the wide variety of farming activities, feed the animals, pick apples and more at the 2017 KP Farm Tour ... and experience more than 100 years of rich farming history in the Key Peninsula.

The event starts at 10am and goes until 4pm. KPFarmTour.com

OCT

13

Seventh Annual OysterFest

13 & 14. Fall is the perfect season for oysters, and Morso is serving them just the way you like them: raw, grilled or pan fried. They have briney beauties from some of the Sound’s premier spots, and they are pairing them with muscadet, an incredible wine perfect with oysters. Call 253.530.3463 for reservations.

This popular tasting event, held in conjunction with the October Saturday Art Walk 1 to 5pm, takes patrons on a tour along Gig Harbor’s beautiful waterfront sampling Northwest wines, brews, spirits and small bites. Tickets are $30 in advance and can be purchased online at EventBrite.com. Photo by Diane Fetzner.

Upcoming Events - November 05

09

13TH ANNUAL DÍA GIRLS DE LOS MUERTOS NIGHT FREE COMMUNITY OUT CELEBRATION GigHarborLivingLocal.com

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WINTER WARM-UP CRAFTS FAIR

18

DONKEY CREEK CHUM FESTIVAL

Now Booking for the Holidays and 2018!

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Hypnotic grooves and international sounds merge with four multi-instrumentalists making them a MUST listening experience. Catch their schedule on www.reverbnation.com/budapestwest and be a fan!

Come see us!

OCT

6 Gig Harbor Yacht Club

OCT

OCT

OCT

14

21

28 10

Masquerade Winery, Bellingham

Markee Gig Harbor,

Rumor Mill, Friday Harbor

NOV

Olalla Vineyards

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OCT

14 OCT

Tacoma Art Museum Gala

Celebrate a black-tie evening of philanthropy and community surrounded by world-class art in our own Tacoma Art Museum gallery spaces. Festive silent auction bidding and a decadent dinner lead up to the evening’s main event, a spectacular live auction and the exceptional art for which it is renown. TacomaArtMuseum.org

Red Carpet Movie Premiere

18

Come enjoy a night of glitz and glamour as you walk the red carpet and enjoy this true and transformational story, “Same Kind of Different as Me.” Proceeds from the event will support the Tacoma Rescue Mission and Relief Bed International’s work of meeting the needs of our homeless neighbors. TRM.org/movie. Event at Galaxy Theatre Gig Harbor, starts at 6pm.

For tickets email scott@reliefbed.com.

OCT

21

TAM Oktoberfest

Join the Tacoma Art Museum, noon to 4pm, for an afternoon of beer tasting, trivia, food, board games and more! All beers are from local breweries, with participating breweries to include 7 Seas Brewing Co., Wingman Brewers Tacoma and Engine House No. 9. Beer tastes can be purchased on site for $2 each. TacomaArtMuseum.org

OCT

OCT

OCT

Gig Harbor Film Festival

Make A Difference Day

Trick-or-Treat in the Harbor

26

28

October 26-29. You won’t want to miss the 10th Anniversary of Gig Harbor’s Film Festival! This is your opportunity to experience the excitement of worldclass cinema right here at Uptown Galaxy Theatre. In addition to excellent films, there will be opportunities to meet filmmakers during panel discussions and parties. GigHarborFilm.org

Held annually on the fourth Saturday of October, millions worldwide are rallied into a single day of action to give back to their communities and help change the world. On October 28, 10am to 3pm, the greater Gig Harbor and Key Peninsula community will unite with millions of volunteers worldwide in a common mission to improve the lives of others.

GigHarborFoundation.org

31

Trick or Treat throughout the downtown waterfront, 3 to 6pm, where you’ll experience “Spooky” Touch Tanks with Harbor WildWatch and visit a Haunted Skansie House! It’s an afternoon that’s fun for the whole family! For more information, call the Downtown Waterfront Alliance at 253.514.0071 or visit GigHarborWaterfront.org.

Upcoming Events - November 23

HOLMES GIG HARBOR TURKEY TROT

24

GYPSY JAZZ AT MORSO: PEARL DJANGO

GigHarborLivingLocal.com

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PHS WINTERFEST

03 DEC

PENINSULA COMMUNITY CHORUS WINTER CONCERT

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