March 2014 Gig Harbor Living

PARENTING IN AN ONLINE WORLD

MAR 2014

Gig Harbor

LIVING

BUILDING COMMUNITY

LOCAL ATHLETES OF THE MONTH ADVENTURE IN WHITEFISH EXPLORE DISCOVERY VILLAGE ORGANIC PRODUCTS AT RAY’S MEAT MARKET SHOP LOCAL IN GIG HARBOR March 2014 | Gig Harbor Living 1

Helping Make Gig Harbor Your Home Windermere Real Estate Gig Harbor - Downtown

Extraordinary Eagle Crest Home

$649,000

3111 Harborview Drive, Ste 200 Gig Harbor, WA 98335

253.514.1988

www.sandyjonesgigharbor.com sandyjones@windermere.com Magnificent Millbrooke Home

$549,000

NMLS 1102863

7191 Wagner Way, Ste 203 Gig Harbor, WA 98335

2  

P: 253.858.3899 | C: 360.239.1942 www.evergreenhomeloans.com/DebbieM dmishko@evergreenhomeloans.com Gig Harbor Living | www.GoGigHarbor.com

WHEN YOUR DREAM INCLUDES A BUSINESS, WE CAN PROTECT IT.

We are your Gig Harbor Hometown Expert!

TIM LOPEZ, AGENT AMERICAN FAMILY INSURANCE 4949 Borgen Blvd Nw Ste B102 Gig Harbor, WA 98332 Office: 253.858.7200 Fax: 253.858.7700 f / TimothyLopezAgency www.trlopez.com

March 2014 | Gig Harbor Living 3

“Family farms and small businesses are the backbone of our communities”

MARCH 2014

WWW.GOGIGHARBOR.COM MARKETING EXECUTIVE Julie Reed 253.273.8524 julie@gogigharbor.com

MANAGING EDITOR Patty Hutchens 208.290.6553 patricia@like-media.com

GRAPHIC DESIGN Whitney Lebsock Jessica Herbig

EVENTS/ACCOUNTING Kim Russo

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Steve Russo

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Artazum and Iriana Shiyan

GIG HARBOR LIVING MAGAZINE

is brought to you by www.like-media.com.

If you would like to advertise with us please call 253.273.8524 or email info@like-media.com.

To submit articles, photos, nomimations and events, email us at events@like-media.com.

Since 1932 Minterbrook has been bringing fresh oysters from the pristine waters of the Puget Sound.

www.minterbrookoyster.com 253.857.5251 4 Gig Harbor Living | www.GoGigHarbor.com

Living Magazine is published monthly and distributed freely throughout the Pacific Northwest and Northwest; Gig Harbor, 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 Magazine is not responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine.

Living Magazine is produced and published

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

Contents

2014

MENTION OUR AD IN MARCH

10

GiginFocus

All the latest Gig happenings.

Read about your local businesses, events and more.

16

19

Food&Dining

The area’s best local eats, hidden gems and satisfying treats.

22

24

*16 oz or larger

LIVE MUSIC & DANCING 7-9pm

Every Friday & Saturday!

29

3/1: Tom Bailey 3/7: Shy Boys 3/8: Shy Boys 3/14: The Front 3/15: Open Mic Night 3/21: Gene Sievers 3/22: Rick G. & Ike Sutton 3/28: Burnham Drive 3/29: Scott MacGougan

Local athletes, organizations and quick weekend getaways for the whole family.

every Wednesday!

ShopinStyle

Local boutiques, unique products and rare finds.

LifeandCommunity

39

HealthandLifestyle

Healthy tips for a healthy you.

36

and receive $1.00 OFF one of our MONTHLY SPECIALTY DRINKS …Shamrock Shimmy or Nutty Irishman*

TRIVIA

f www.forzacoffeecompany.com

5275 Olympic Drive NW Gig Harbor, WA 98335

253.858.8033 March 2014 | Gig Harbor Living 5

Are YOU In Print?!

Online? Do you want to be?

NOTE

Publisher’s

Calling All Journalists!

ARE YOU A WRITER wanting to share news of a community event, a Gig Harbor resident’s accomplishment or just a “feel good” story? A photographer eager to have your photos come to life in the context of an article or online? Gig Harbor Living wants to hear from you.

As a community publication, we strive to bring the residents of Gig Harbor all of the great things that are happening in this town. Whether it is a heart-warming story about your friends, family or colleagues or an informative piece about the area, we want to share it all with you.

In addition to our magazine we also have a website (gogigharbor.com) which has exploded in popularity. But with so much going on in this community, we want to be sure we cover as much as possible. And the truth is that no one knows this community better than its residents. For that reason, we are encouraging anyone who is interested in being a contributor to Gig Harbor Living Magazine or its website to share with us your interest by providing us with a sample of a story written by you. But wait, there’s more!

Let us help you develop your marketplace presence!

Call Julie today!

253.273.8524

Undoubtedly you’ve heard the saying “a picture is worth a thousand words.” It’s true that an image can share a story as well, if not better, than words. At Gig Harbor Living, we enjoy bringing our stories to life through captivating photos. That is where local photographers can help by capturing the life of the Gig Harbor community through photos that will complement the stories.

So if you are a blogger, writer, video blogger or photographer that wants to be part of one of the fastest growing publications in the Northwest, contact us today! Please email your statement of interest and a sample of your work to Managing Editor, Patty Hutchens at patricia@like-media.com.

We create community!

We connect people!

We build trust!

Establish a customer base!

Boost your ranking on Google!

Steve Russo Steve Russo steve@like-media.com

AbouttheCover

As a historic maritime community, Gig Harbor has it all from old world charm to modern culture. We chose this photo for our cover this month for it’s beauty of a blue sky, the rustic charm of Gig Harbor as well as that which residents and tourist love - the water.

MAR

2014

WORLD

Gig Harbor

PARENTING

IN AN ONLINE

LIVING

BUILDUNINITGY

With over 75,000 copies planned this year in distribution, Gig Harbor Living will be the number one distributed monthly magazine in Gig Harbor.

COMMATHLETES

Your Go-To Publication.

ONLINE.

6 Gig Harbor Living | www.GoGigHarbor.com

LOCAL NTH OF THE MO FISH E IN WHITE ADVENTUR EXPLORE LAGE ERY VIL DISCOV TS AT PRODUC ORGANIC T MARKET RAY’S MEA AL IN SHOP LOC BOR GIG HAR

March 2014

| Gig Harbor

Living Local

1

Your Resource For Home Buying & Selling!

253.732.0534 sue@suerand.com www.suerand.com

I’ll help you make the move that’s right for your lifestyle.

Pick Up & Delivery Debra L. Burk

We Specialize In:

Pruning, Tree Removal, Cabling/Bracing Stump Grinding, View Enhancement Dead Wood Removal, Wind Soil Reduction

WilliamsTreeAndStump.com

253.229.4119

17102 141st Street KPN Gig Harbor, WA 98329

253.884.6622

Fax: 253.884.6250 | Cell: 253.225.0319 officeaide@centurytel.net

www.debbiesofficeaide.com Bookkeeping | Data Entry Payroll | Accounts Payable & Receivable | Monthly & Quarterly Taxes

5801 Soundview Drive, Suite 101 Gig Harbor, WA 98335

253.732.0534

sue@suerand.com • www.suerand.com

March 2014 | Gig Harbor Living 7

11 Years Engineering in Gig Harbor

Living

TEAM JULIE REED

As the Marketing Manager for Gig Harbor Living, Julie enjoys working closely with the businesses, organizations, schools and the people of Gig Harbor to bring their message to the community.

PATTY HUTCHENS Prior to joining Living Local Magazines in October 2012, Patty wrote for the Spokesman Review. As Managing Editor, Patty oversees and edits the content of all Like-Media’s publications and also writes many of the stories for Living Local Magazines.

JULIANNA VERBOORT As a writer for Gig Harbor Living, Julianna brings community news to our readers. Her stories are fun, informative and bring a unique perspective to the community of Gig Harbor and its visitors.

KIM RUSSO As co-owner of Like-Media, Kim is the behind the scenes person whose tasks are many. In addition to overseeing the Calendar of Events, Kim performs all of the accounting for each of Like-Media’s publications and websites.

WHITNEY LEBSOCK Whitney is the Creative Director for all five of Like-Media’s publications as well as all of the Living Local websites. Her expertise in design and her vision both create eye-catching ads and layouts that bring businesses’ messages and community stories to life.

JESSICA HERBIG As a Graphic Designer, Jessica’s unique style is behind much of what our readers see in our publications. With a creative flair and a strong ability to convey a message that has high visual impact, Jessica helps bring our publications to life.

2615 Jahn Ave. NW Ste. E-5 hodgeengineering.com 253.857.7055

MELODY KNAGGS Melody is the Marketing Assistant for Living Local Magazines.

She works closely with our advertisers to ensure their ads convey the very message they desire. She is also instrumental in making sure our websites are up to date with the latest stories.

STEVE RUSSO Steve’s vision has helped the company grow to include now five community publications. Passionate about his mission, Steve works closely with businesses, organizations and residents in all the Living Local communities.

8 Gig Harbor Living | www.GoGigHarbor.com

Harbor|HomeConsignment “Designer Look Without the Designer Price Tag”

Hancock&Moore Century Baker Thomasville Henredon Sherrill Hooker

in Gig Harbor

10 Years (253) 853-5994 3308 Uddenberg Lane | Gig Harbor, WA March 2014 | Gig Harbor Living 9

Gigin Focus

LOOKING FOR A WAY to make a difference in the lives of others?

March is Red Cross Month, and Albertson’s in Gig Harbor is the place to be. Since its inception in the 1800s, the Red Cross has become the world’s largest volunteer organization. We hear requests from the Red Cross seeking support during disasters of hurricanes, earthquakes or when a local family loses its home to a fire. The situations where the Red Cross has stepped in to save lives are countless. Perhaps you or someone close to you has been a recipient of a blood transfusion made possible by a donor at a Red Cross Blood Drive?

In recognition of Red Cross Month, you can help others by donating blood at one of the many blood drives taking place at Albertson’s during the month of March. The bloodmobile will be at Albertson’s from 11:30am to 6pm on the following dates: March 3, 10, 17, 24, and 31.

Stop by and continue the tradition of founder Clara Barton and the American Red Cross. You may just save a life!

If you are unsure if you are eligible to donate, log onto www.redcrossblood.org/donating-blood/eligibility-requirements.

Make Your Financial Future a Priority.

Individual Retirement Accounts 401k Plans/Rollovers

Got Money?

Mutual Funds Stocks

Put your tax refund to work.

Article courtesy of Edward Jones.

Bonds

IT’S THE TIME OF YEAR to eagerly anticipate the answer to that one big question: Will I or won’t I get a tax refund? If you receive a refund, you’ll have to answer another question: What should I do with it? Your answer may depend, at least in part, on the size of your refund. In 2013, the average federal tax refund was about $2,650. If you were to receive a $2,650 refund this year, what would you do with it?

For one, you could put the money into an IRA. In 2014, you can put in up to $5,500 in a traditional or Roth IRA, so your $2,650 would represent nearly half your total yearly contribution. (If you’re 50 or older, you can put in up to another $1,000, for a total limit of $6,500.) If you only put in that $2,650 and left it alone, it could grow significantly. In fact, after 30 years, your $2,650 would have grown to more than $20,000, assuming no further contributions and a hypothetical 7% annual return. If you put in that same $2,650 every year for 30 years, again earning the same hypothetical 7% annual return, you would end up with almost $268,000.* Keep in mind that you will eventually be taxed on your traditional IRA earnings. Earnings in a Roth IRA can be withdrawn tax free, provided you don’t start taking withdrawals until you’re 59 ½ and you’ve had your account at least five years.

Insurance Annuities

Please call for a FREE review!

At Edward Jones, our business is helping people find solutions for their long-term financial goals.

Let’s work together to design and implement an investment strategy that suits your needs.

So remember, no matter how big or small your refund, put your money to work! *Example is for illustrative purposes and does not reflect the performance of any specific investment. Illustration does not include charges and fees that could have a negative effect on the performance.

Erin R. Abrigo Financial Advisor 5775 Soundview Drive, Suite 203C Gig Harbor, WA 98335

253.853.7988

Gig Harbor by the Numbers

49 Gig Harbor ranks 49 out of 522 in per capita income in the state of Washington.

803 In 1950 Gig Harbor’s population was 803.

edwardjones.com/erinabrigo f / edwardjoneserinabrigo l / in/erinabrigo March 2014 | Gig Harbor Living 11

BusinessSpotlight

Discovery Village

Where children can explore, create, and learn. By Patty Hutchens.

ANYONE WITH CHILDREN KNOWS they love to explore their surroundings through the sense of touch. After all, it’s a great way to discover all that the world has to offer. At Discovery Village, children are encouraged to enter the world of exploration using all of their senses, including touch.

Discovery Village opened in 2010 and came to life through the collaboration of friends Amber Allin, Mollie Hoff and Heather Witte, all of whom met when their oldest children were just 2 years old.

Discovery Village is an 8000 square foot facility where children and their families can explore, create and learn. There are hands on exhibits in the museum, an ADA compliant playground, a preschool, a healthy café and a children’s consignment shop. Children become enriched by taking part in cooking, art, dance and there are even parenting classes. And if you are looking for a special place to hold your child’s birthday party, it is the perfect place!

One of the goals the women had when they set out on their new venture was to be all inclusive.

Hoff is a parent of a child with developmental delays and realizes the challenges that can be present when a child with special needs enters a public setting. For that reason, it was important to her that Discovery Village be a place where families with children who have special needs can come and feel comfortable and welcomed. And there is no doubt they have accomplished this for all children and their families. Whether it’s playing pretend at a market, a veterinary hospital or a pizza parlor or building sandcastles out of moon sand, kids interact with the world and each other and have fun while doing so.

While it caters to children birth to 9 years old, Discovery Village is enjoyed by all ages. There is Wi-Fi available for parents who need to get some work done while their children play, and they

can always take a break to interact with the kids and create some great mommy/ daddy and me memories with their child.

One of the more popular programs at Discovery Village is the preschool program.

The goal of Discovery Village Preschool is to prepare children academically for kindergarten and provide an environment that builds both self-confidence and empathy for others. The experience of Discovery Village is inspiring on many levels but none of it would be possible without the incredible team of teachers.

The owners of Discovery Village enjoy giving back to the community that has brought them success. They support the local elementary school auctions, the local Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) group, Ellie’s Project, FISH and the annual clothing and toy drive. Stop in and see all there is to explore at Discovery Village.

Selling Your Home?

Tips for staging your home for quicker sale.

FORECLOSURES AND HIGH MAINTENANCE costs mean that new homes go up for sale faster than you can say “down market.”

And what is great for buyers is that there are more homes which means that sellers need to distinguish their properties from the rest of the crowd.

Home staging, or temporarily redesigning a home to appeal to buyers, can give homeowners an edge in an overcrowded market.

Staged homes look bigger, newer and warmer. They invite buyers to see themselves living in the home.

Staging projects include inexpensive tasks, from rearranging furniture, to renting contemporary living room sets. Here are some tips for staging homes: • Declutter. When buyers see overcrowded bookshelves and wrinkled towels, they focus more on the dingy details than the architecture. But staging means more than a through cleaning; sellers should also remove personal items, like family photographs. Buyers should picture their families living in the home, not yours.

• Make things look new. A little paint can go a long way.

Light colors make rooms look larger and brighter, so

use them to make your home appear spacious. Wooden floors and cabinetry make big impressions, so make sure that they shine. If any wood looks dry or dirty, apply an orange oil for a quick restoration job.

Touch of Oranges Wood Cleaner and Restorer (www.TouchOfOranges.com) hides small scratches and removes build-up, fingerprints and grease from cabinetry, wood floors and fixtures.

Hard water stains on glass shower doors and windows look unattractive, so remove them with a specialized product like CLR, Lime Away or Bring It On Cleaner (w w w.Br ingItOnCle aner.com), which uses oxygen bleach to clean minerals from glass and tile. Some hard water stains will often yield to scrubbing with white vinegar and a non-scratch pad. If you find that vinegar is ineffective, a paint scraper or razor blade can be used to remove the bonded stains before resorting to harsher chemicals.

• Add small details. In the kitchen, bowls filled with fresh fruit create an attractive, colorful eyepiece. Place vases filled with fresh flowers in the bedrooms and dining room. Put candles in the bathroom. Small touches make homes feel more inviting.

Get your home ready to sell!

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Ask about our

Sarah Friesen Home Manager

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f GigHarborHomeManagement GigHarborHomeManagement.com March 2014 | Gig Harbor Living 13

Arts&Entertainment

LOCAL MUSIC The Gig Spot 3/7 - Amadon, 8pm 3/14 - Dave Hannon, 8pm 3/22 - Love Fighter/Insuburban Avenue, 8pm 3/28 - Jody Quine, 8pm 3/31 - Corey R-J with Jeff Ross and Dave Hannon, 8pm

Forza Coffee Company Trivia Every Wednesday | Live Events 7-9pm 3/01 - Tom Bailey 3/07 - Shy Boys 3/08 - Shy Boys 3/14 - The Front 3/15 - Open Mic Night 3/21 - Gene Sievers 3/22 - Rick G. & Ike Sutton 3/28 - Burnham Drive 3/29 - Scott MacGougan

March 20 - Tea & Tour. The Harbor History Museum presents a Tea & Tour every third Thursday of each month and will feature and in-depth tour of a current special exhibit. Following the exhibit, tea and cookies will be available to participants. It is free to Harbor History Museum members, admission plus $1 for museum non-members and begins at 2pm. For more information visit: www.harborhistorymuseum.org.

March 21-23 - Tacoma Youth Theater Presents Peter Pan. This fully produced production is sure to delight the entire family. Pay-What-You-Can Admission and a running time of under one hour. It’s a perfect introduction to live theatre for children of all ages! This play is produced in an innovative new theatre, just for young artists, in the heart of Tacoma’s downtown theatre district. Join in the fun at Tacoma Youth Theatre. For more information: www.tacomayouththeatre.org.

March 1-April 13 - Going to the Chapel: Faith, Friction, & Fellowship on the Gig Harbor Peninsula. Another in-house created exhibit of the Harbor History Museum, showcasing the history of the early peninsula churches, the ceremonies and celebrations, youth and adult programs, and even the challenges within the communities between the different religious convictions. Artifacts, photographs, and video will tell the story of our history. For more information visit: www.harborhistorymuseum.org.

March 7-23 - Angry Housewives. Presented by Paradise Theatre. Show starts at 7:30pm Fridays and Saturdays, and 3pm on Sundays. Special Dinner Theatre at 6pm on March 22. For more information visit www.paradisetheatre.org.

March 13 - The Muse at Morso Featuring Kevin Miller.

Morso presents The Muse at Morso at 7pm. On the second Thursday of each month, Morso hosts prominent poets and authors to Gig Harbor then share work from the community. Our featured poet is this month is Kevin Miller. Miller has worked in the public schools of Washington State for thirty-six years and taught in public schools in Blaine, Gig Harbor and Olympia. His latest work is Home & Away: The Old Town Poems. Please call us at 253.530.3463 for further information. This event is free. For more information visit www.morsowinebar.com.

March 13 - Discover Art! Share a story with us about a great artist. Be inspired and create your own art work in that style! Located at Gig Harbor Pierce County Library, 4424 Point Fosdick DR NW, for ages 6-10. Registration required. Register online at piercecountylibrary.org/calendar.

March 15 - Gig Harbor Peninsula Civic Orchestra Spring Concert. Help celebrate our 10th season by joining us for our annual spring concert at Peninsula High School, 14105 Purdy Drive NW, Admission is FREE! For more information, visit: www.ghpcorchestra.com.

March 8 - Health and Safety Expo. The 29th Annual Gig Harbor Health & Safety Expo will take place at Gig Harbor Fire & Medic One Headquarters, 10222 Bujacich Rd NW, from 9am-2:30pm. The purpose of this community event is to provide a wide variety of health screening and safety information. All screening and information is free and there is no appointment necessary. If you are interested in being a part of this event, call Gig Harbor Fire & Medic One at 253.851.3111 or email HSE@piercefire.org.

March 8 - The Renton Home Show and Real Estate Expo. This is more than your average tradeshow! Real estate investors are gathered from various parts of the Pacific Northwest, along with local businesses, to showcase their products and services and personally interact with prospective customers that are in the market for “Building, Remodeling, and Repairing”. Located in the Renton Pavilion, 233 Burnett Ave S, Renton, WA, it’s free to the public and will start at 10:30am.

March 9 - Scott Firefighter Stair Climb. A race up 69 flights of stairs in full fire gear. At 788 feet of vertical elevation, the Columbia Center in downtown Seattle stands as the second tallest building west of the Mississippi River.

All proceeds will benefit the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

SHOWS/MUSIC/ARTS

March 1-2 - Auditions for Little Women. LITTLE WOMEN is the first play of Tacoma Youth Theatre’s 2014 Mainstage Season. A group of young actors will collaborate with preselected mentor adult actors to bring this classic tale to the stage. Tuition, if cast, is PAY WHAT YOU CAN. Auditions are FREE from 4pm-5:30pm. For more information: www.tacomayouththeatre.org.

EVENTS & ACTIVITIES

March 22 - Cha Cha Dance. Come learn the Cha Cha! One of the most popular social Latin-American dances, the Cha Cha is full of passion and energy. Located at 6515 43rd Ave. Ct. NW Suite 202, the night will start with a Cha Cha dance lesson, lead by Rick Gossard, at 7pm. It will be then be followed by an hour and a half of open dance with our lively DJ. For more information check out: https://www.facebook.com/ events/1461138484114668/.

March 22 - The Beatniks. Since their explosive debut in the early 90s’, the Beatniks have been pleasing audiences ranging in age from eight to eighty with their signature energy, classic sound and vigorous stage presence. They perform the music of the 60’s & 70’s (and 80’s, too); with energy and passion that you won’t find anywhere.All proceeds from this event benefit the Key Peninsula Civic Center. Tickets are currently available at Blend Wine Shop and Sunnycrest Nursery and Floral, the Key Peninsula Civic Center, and on the KPCC’s website: www.kpciviccenter.org.

March 22 - Michael O’Neill at Morso. Singer/songwriter Michael ONeill, who lives in Gig Harbor, is on tour supporting his new release I like it Like That. Come hear the new songs and celebrate with them. Call 253.530.3463 for tickets.

March 28-30 - Tacoma Youth Theater Presents A Little Princess. This fully produced production is sure to delight the entire family. Pay-What-You-Can Admission and a running time of under one hour. It’s a perfect introduction to live theatre for children of all ages! This play is produced in an innovative new theatre, just for young artists, in the heart of Tacoma’s downtown theatre district. Join in the fun at Tacoma Youth Theatre. For more information: www.tacomayouththeatre.org.

March 15 - Go Green 5k Run. The Peninsula High School Parent Volunteer Organization is thrilled to announce the First Annual GO GREEN 5K RUN! This Official 5K RUN starts at 9am at Donkey Creek Park in Gig Harbor. 100% of the proceeds will go toward much needed improvements within Peninsula High School. There’ll be prizes for top runners, spirit awards; plus food, music, vendors festivities and much more! GO GREEN 5K RUN Registration - Adults: $35; Students 18 and under: $20. Contact Sandy Jones 253.514.1988 or go to www.peninsulaproud.com.

March 14-16 - St. Patrick’s Weekend. Everyone is a bit Irish on St. Patrick’s Day and Morso is celebrating it all weekend. They have dishes from Friday through Sunday, corned beef and cabbage with Colcannon. Their corned beef comes from the famous Market House in Seattle, the best corned beef in the area. They could boil it like everyone else, but roasting is so much more delicious, just like the great folks at Market House recommend.You’ve got to try it!

March 15 - Sound Brewery Beer Tasting. Sound Brewery at Morso on Sat Mar 15 for a beer tasting starting at Noon. Brewmaster Mark Hood will be here from 2-4pm.

The line up includes Monk’s Indiscretion Belgian Specialty Ale, O’Regan’s Revenge Irish Red Ale (perfect for the St Pat’s weekend), Poundage Porter Brown Porter, Humulo Nimbus Double IPA, Mosaic American Pale Ale and Bombshell Belgian Style Blonde Ale. Bring your empty growlers or get one from them, just don’t miss the chance to try these great beers. There is a $5 fee/person for this event. This fee will be refunded with a growler fill.

March 18 - Mangia, Mangia Italian Bistro Night at Morso. Morso will become your favorite Italian Bistro on this special menu Tuesday. Stop in and order from their special Italian menu that includes traditional favorites like cannalone, seafood linguine, pasta puttanesca, chicken rigatoni. No Italian dinner is complete without a delicious glass of wine, so of course a fantastic Italian wines will be featured for only $5! For more information, visit: www.morsowinebar.com.

March 19-20 - AARP Smart Driver Class. 8:45am1pm at 3510 Grandview Street. This class is designed for drivers age 50+, however, all ages can participate. Each

student that completes the 8 hours of class time are presented with a certificate of completion. Each attendee is responsible for contacting their insurance company to find out if they qualify for premium price reductions.

For more information on the class call 253.858.3393 or 253.265.8508.

March 20 - Mending the Soul Course. An eightweek course that guides women in the critical process of healing from the effects of abandonment and abuse. For more information, contact Sammi McCubbins, Director of Pastoral Care at smccubbins@harborcovenant.org or 253.851.8450.

March 22 - Fly Fishing Presentation at Gig Harbor Fly Shop. Free 1-hour exploratory seminar is scheduled for Saturday, March 22nd at noon. The Gig Harbor Fly Shop offers one of the most extensive fly fishing education programs in Western Washington and for 2014 is expanding learning opportunities even further with more dates offered than ever before. Instruction ranges from free exploratory sessions to full introduction classes and courses addressing advanced techniques. For more information visit: www.gigharborflyshop.com.

March 22 - THE BIG SPORTS GIG - So That All May Play! Enjoy a fabulous evening of dining, silent and live auction! You’ll have a chance to meet former Seattle Mariner pitcher Brian Holman, former Seattle Sounders forward Roger Levesque and our own Alan Anderson, Gig Harbor Canoe & Kayak Racing Team’s head coach while taking the opportunity to make a significant difference in the lives of our community’s youth as we raise critical funds to enable, and increase, the participation of disadvantaged youth in sports programs across our Gig Harbor and Key Peninsula community For more information on tickets and sponsorship packages 253.514.6338 or visit www.gigharborfoundation.org/tbsg.

Dock located in historic downtown Gig Harbor. For more information visit www.gigharborpaddlerscup.com.

April 5 - Gig Harbor Farmers Market. Gig Harbor Farmer’s Market is open 8:30-2pm, every Saturday from April - September, come rain or shine. Located at 5530 Wollochet Drive NW in Uptown Gig Harbor, just off Hwy 16 at the Olympic Drive exit. www.gigharborfarmersmarket.com.

April 12-13 - Introduction to Sail Making and Sail Repair. Attend a full day session from 10am - 4pm and spend some time talking about the ‘how’s’ and ‘whys’ of traditional sail building, seeing and handling several examples and discussing the pros and cons of various design techniques.

Learn sail theory and tuning from a sailmaker’s perspective and how to get the best performance out of any vessel. We’ll try to understand the stresses and strains that are put to the cloth, and the various preventative measures you can take to keep the sails fresh. Despite that ounce of prevention, repairs are inevitable. Gig Harbor Boat Shop, 3805 Harborview Drive,

All Ages Live Music Theater, Tea and Soda Bar in Gig Harbor • Great music • Local and national acts • Intimate setting • Up close and personal • Fine acoustics • Cozy seating • Warm hospitality • Rentals available • Music classes offered

UPCOMING EVENTS April 5-6 - Gig Harbor Paddlers Cup & Expo 2014.

The 3rd Annual Paddlers Cup will feature competitive paddle racing for kayaks, canoes and SUP (stand up paddle boards), outriggers benefitting the Gig Harbor Canoe & Kayak Racing Team. Events will range from novice to expert, and kids races too. On shore, there will be a complete expo with the industries top manufacturers, clubs, retailers, non-profit organizations and more. Demos, clinics and workshops will be held throughout the two-day event. Competitors are expected from throughout the region including Canada.

The expo will feature paddle sport vendors as well as other vendors in the park at Skansie Brothers Park and Jerisich

Gig Harbor info@gigharborboatshop.org 253.857.9344 For more information, visit www.gigharborboatshop.org.

April 26-27 - Weekend of Hope. Help support FOP, the Epilepsy Foundation, and Jordyn’s Journey.

There will be a Golf Tournament, Silent Auction, Dinner Buffet, Live Auction, 5k/1 Mile Race, and more. For more information visit www.databarevents.com/weekendofhope or www.jordynsjourney.com.

6615 38th Ave NW Gig Harbor, WA 98335

www.theGigSpot.com

f

the.gig.spot.gig.harbor

March 2014 | Gig Harbor Living 15

GoodNews

Cell phones are typically the tool of choice for online socializing in middle and high school.

Parenting in an Online World

What parents need to know about cyber safety. By Julianna Verboort.

PARENTS TODAY SHARE CONCERNS that prior generations have worried about, including drugs, gangs, safety, grades and school pressures; but the phrase “I wouldn’t want to be a parent today,” is often uttered in reference to the relatively new arena of digital devices and social media.

Parents are hungry for more information about parenting well in the age of social media.

Documentaries, parenting publications, blogs and presentations have multiplied around the subject of online bullying and its ramifications. Bullyingstatistics.org states that approximately half of adolescents and teens have been bullied online, and about the same percent engage in bullying behavior. Bullying is not the only worry; consider the connections kids make online, their personal reputations, and the self-identities (or personal branding) expressed in the digital world.

Social media and online networking form a new and shifting landscape for young people to navigate. It is not easy for 10-18 year olds to project how today’s online impulses may impact their lives next week, let alone years into the future. Children today are charged with inventing a code of ethics for online behavior, without the benefit of enough life experience to develop ethics. How can parents cope with permanent digital footprints for children who are in the midst of the twists and turns of adolescence?

Last fall, Gig Harbor Film Festival and Galaxy Theater partnered with Peninsula School District to screen the film Cyberbullied. Parents and students were invited to attend showings grouped by age. Immediately following the film, the audience joined in a panel discussion with the film’s director and regional educators. The Cyberbullied event inspired several

ServiceS include:

parents to approach Kathy Weymiller, Director of District Initiatives at Peninsula School District, to establish a District/ parent partnership supporting online safety and ethics.

structured around these objectives:

The result is Parenting Digital Natives, a community team led by Weymiller.

“Parents are hungry for more information about how to parent well during the age of social media. Our kids know so much more than we do about the digital world.

They need us more than ever to provide guidance in protecting their safety and digital reputations.”

Education, awareness and safety practices for all when interacting online;

Simply placing computers in the family room is not enough to monitor what kids do online; phones, tablets, and other devices are the tools of choice for digital socializing. Monitoring online interaction is further complicated because today’s network or app can be old news by tomorrow, and it is hard for busy parents to keep up with evolving social tools. “Kids are long gone from Facebook. How can we guide them through Snapchat, Ask.fm, Pheed, the apps we don’t yet know about?

The purpose of the Parenting Digital Natives initiative is to empower parents to parent, and have resources that help them keep up with their kids in their electronic environment,” says Weymiller, who is also a parent, with children ages 19, 17, and 9.

Parenting Digital Natives is in the process of developing a seminar series, with expert speakers invited to educate parents, and opportunities for parents to share skills with each other. The programs will be

Hands-on practice for parents to learn how to check devices and routers to monitor online activities;

What to do if your child has been bullied online, has bullied another child, or has taken a mis-step online; Helping your child to develop a code of ethics for online behavior; and Legal ramifications of online activity.

The events will be open to the greater Gig Harbor community. Some events will be for adults specifically, while others will be intended for students and parents together.

Kicking off the series, online safety expert Lynn Kolp will lead a seminar on May 15, 2014 (time and location will be published in local media and on PSD’s website).

Parenting Digital Natives is a thoughtful example of parents, the community, and Peninsula School District working hand in hand to bring beneficial programming to residents in the greater Gig Harbor area.

For more information about Parenting Digital Natives, please contact Kathy Weymiller: www.psd401.net www.facebook.com/psd401 Weymillerk@psd401.net 253.530.1095

Oil and Lube Service Paintless Dent Repair Self Service 24 Hour Car Wash Automated Car Wash Tunnel Car Wash Did you know we also service RV’s, boats, motorcycles and golf carts, too?

CAR WASH & DETAIL Monday – Saturday, 8am-6pm Sunday, 9-5pm OIL & LUBE Monday – Saturday, 8am-6pm Sunday, 10am-3pm DO-IT-YOURSELF CAR WASH 24 Hours

FREE CAR WASH WITH EVERY OIL CHANGE!

253.858.1888 6750 Kimball Drive Gig Harbor, WA greatcarcarecenter.com March 2014 | Gig Harbor Living 17

18 Gig Harbor Living | www.GoGigHarbor.com

Food&Dining The Hub at Gig Harbor

Come enjoy great local foods, wine and craft brews, an awesome heated event tent and patio with live music and flat screen TVs. Watch airplanes take off and land from your table. Monday Trivia Night, Taco Tuesdays, Wine Down Wednesdays and Thirsty Thursday’s Open Mic Night with Mike. Now delivering lunch! www.thehubrestaurants.com 1208 26th Avenue NW | 253.853.1585

Scan me for restaurant locations!

Lunchbox Laboratory

Home of the world’s best burgers and shakes, Lunchbox Laboratory has 3 locations in Western Washington! High quality ingredients sourced locally. Buns are fresh baked daily, locally made and organic. Stop by for weekly rotating handcrafted burger, cocktail and shake experiments! lunchboxlaboratory.com/gigharbor 4901 Point Fosdick Dr. NW | 253.432.4061

Green.House Restaurant

Under New Ownership! Whether it’s on the patio, in the bar for happy hour, or by the cozy fireplace in the dining room, you’re invited try our delicious new additions and nightly chalkboard specials with Chef Scott & Gail Fuller. Offering lunch, Twilight, dinner & Happy Hour. Open 7 days a week, M-Thrs: 11am9pm, Fri-Sat: 11am-10pm, Sun: 11am-8pm. www.greenhousegigharbor.com 4793 Point Fosdick Dr. NW, Ste. 400 | 253.514.6482

March 2014 | Gig Harbor Living 19

JW

Serving Friends and Neighbors in the Gig Harbor Community

Voted “South Sound’s Best” for the 3rd year in a row.

Offering a personal experience in which no detail is overlooked and southern hospitality is realized. We give you honest food for honest prices! Adult dining only. 21 and over. Every Tues & Wed night we feature our 3 for $30 menu! Senior Sundays - 10% OFF entire bill for 65 and over. www.jwgigharbor.com 4107 Harborview Drive | 253.858.3529

By Julie Reed IT WAS OCTOBER 2010 when Ray Paul Shumsky opened Ray’s Meat Market by the Purdy Spit Bridge. In just a few years, the community has come to appreciate the high quality, natural meat products that Ray’s Meat Market brings to its customers.

Shumsky takes pride in providing healthy food choices and will help each customer create them using rich flavorful meats.

Their products are local and so are they!

Shumsky selects beef from the Painted

which was a state of the art grocery store back in the late 40’s.

Earlier in Ray Paul’s career he honed in his skills under the guidance of the expertise of his father. He had the opportunity to practice his profession in retail and chain stores as well as wholesale operations. It was a family dream for Ray Paul to return to the service style meat shop of his former years. Even though the elder Ray

Blazing Onion

Locally owned featuring 26 chef inspired burger options, salad creations & more. Fresh, locally sourced produce & natural meats, chicken, buffalo, turkey, & vegetarian options. Visit our sports lounge & enjoy local craft beer. Hours: Sun-Thurs: 11am10pm, Fri-Sat: 11am-11pm. Sports Lounge: Sun: 11am-10pm, Mon-Thurs: 11am-11pm, Fri-Sat: 11am-12am. www.blazingonion.com 4701 Point Fosdick Drive NW | 253.514.6703

Morso

Hills Ranch in Oregon where their animals are grass fed and free of antibiotics and hormones. With personalized attention to each customer and the desire to provide healthy choices, Ray’s Meat Market is a favorite of many.

Shumsky attributes his success and the pride he takes in producing quality products to his dad, Ray Shumsky, who began training his son at a very early age.

Ray taught his trade to his son, Ray Paul, in the late 60’s in his shop in Kent. He was a life-long meat cutter; his career started in Center, North Dakota when he was 15 in a small custom meat shop, much like Ray’s Meat Market today. The elder Shumsky worked at Dahlgren - Massey’s in Auburn

has passed away, Shumsky still continues the dream of the family business. You will notice the black and white picture of Ray in the store today. Ray Paul’s wife Debbie is also a business partner and childhood friend. Pat Anderson (Debbie’s mom) was a meat wrapper for Ray Paul’s dad for 27 years.

Ray’s Meat Market is open Monday through Saturday 9-6 and Sundays 11-5. Shumsky carries a full array of meats and has added select cheeses, beef jerky, smoked ribs, pork, beef, chicken and lamb; he also takes orders for special events and holidays.

Enjoy lunch, Happy Hour, a comfortable dinner overlooking the water. Wine list offers a worldwide scope, craft beers on tap, fun food & wine events.

Our Morso Gallery provides private dining & a unique experience seeing local & national artists.

Live music events features amazing artists from around the country. Hours: Tue-Thurs 4pm10pm, Fri-Sat 12pm-12am, Sun 2pm-9pm. www.morsowinebar.com | 253.530.3463 9014 Peacock Hill Ave at N. Harborview Dr.

Forza Coffee Company

More than specialty coffee! Offering breakfast sandwiches & pastries, lunch soups, flatbreads & salads, dinner specialties, flatbreads & garlic chicken pesto, & bbq chicken nachos. Also offering amazing varieties of wine & local craft beer on tap! Happy hour daily from 4-6pm. www.forzacoffeecompany.com 5275 Olympic Drive NW | 253.858.8033

Monday-Saturday, 9am-6pm Sundays, 11am-5pm

RECIPE

Dark Chocolate Cherry Cordial Cups Ingredients: • 30 thawed from frozen pitted dark cherries (or stemless maraschino cherries for kids) • ¼ cup brandy • 1 12-ounce package dark chocolate chips (divided) • 6 tsp. vegetable oil • 1 tub Litehouse Food’s Vanilla Yogurt Fruit Dip • Special equipment: chocolate cup molds Directions: Add cherries to small bowl and drizzle with brandy. Let soak while preparing the chocolate as described in next step. To melt chocolate, work with three ounces at a time to maintain quality. Place 3 ounces of chocolate chips and 1 ½ teaspoons of the vegetable oil in microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 30 seconds and stir. Return to microwave for 20 second increments, stirring between, until melted and creamy. Fill cup molds approximately 1/3 full with melted chocolate. Using the back of a spoon, spread chocolate up to the sides to the tops of molds. Set in refrigerator for 10 minutes until set; invert and pop out of molds. Continue melting chocolate with oil and preparing molds until all cups are completed. Drain brandy off cherries. Fill each prepared cup to the top with the yogurt fruit dip. Place a brandy-soaked cherry (or maraschino cherry) in the center of each. May be stored covered in the refrigerator for several days.

253.432.4241 www.raysmeatmarket.com

Brought to you by

Located by the Purdy Spit Bridge Beef from Painted Hills

March 2014 | Gig Harbor Living 21

ShopinStyle Natural Color Diamonds A TREND IN EVERYDAY FASHION. SPRING AND SUMMER are synonymous with a flurry of wedding activities.

Although engagement rings and wedding bands are the main jewelry at a wedding, fine jewelry is actually the most considered choice for all of the gifts surrounding the romantic affair -- bride gifts, groom gifts, gifts for the mother of the bride, not to mention tokens of appreciation for bridesmaids and groomsmen.

We Create Custom Crystal Logos for Your Brand or Event Free Local Delivery No Setup Fees or Minimums Visit us at www.dollymamadesigns.com 5727 Baker Way NW, Ste 202 Gig Harbor, WA 98332

253.851.5113 info@dollymamadesigns.com

Whether it’s a sparkling pair of diamond earrings, a delicate pendant or chic cufflinks, diamonds are no longer just for red carpets and runways. Nowadays, pave set fashion styles and some natural color diamonds are providing more affordable options, helping foster an “everyday” approach to diamond jewelry. Specifically, Argyle diamonds from Australia reveal a broader selection when it comes to rare yet reasonably priced jewelry.

Since Argyle diamonds are usually mined in small crystals, they lend themselves well to fashionable trends like pave and micropave. But what makes Argyle gems truly unique is the spectrum of colors they offer including soft neutral shade, beautiful silvers and grays, deep congnacs and warm champagnes.

Learn more about Argyle diamonds at www.australiandiamondscenter.com.

Tradewinds Treasure Gallery

7700 Pioneer Way, Suite 104 | Gig Harbor, WA

Welcome to Tradewinds Treasure Gallery a unique collection of treasures from around the world. Whether you are searching for antiques and artifacts, a unique gift, for yourself or someone special, you will want to see what we have to offer. Beautiful investment grade fine jewelry, designer fashion jewelry and watches. Many of our treasures are especially selected to suit any pocket book. Open Tuesday-Friday, 10am-5:30pm, Saturday, 10am-5pm and Sunday, 12pm-5pm.

253.858.8300

Sophie’s Touch

3302 Harborview Drive | Gig Harbor, WA

Sophie’s Touch is dedicated to pets and the people who love them. Our store is located downtown Gig Harbor. We began our business creating products that we and our dogs loved to use. We work hard to provide quality, stylish and functional merchandise and complete, balanced, natural food and treats.

We are proud to showcase many local vendors and craftsman.

Our hours are Monday-Saturday, 10-6pm and Sundays,105pm.

f Sophie’s Touch, Pet Comforts www.sophiestouch.com 253.853.3294

Morford’s Hallmark

4914 Point Fosdick Drive NW | Gig Harbor, WA

Family owned and locally operated since March 1978, we’re here to help you through every moment, big and small. Gifts, Jewelry, Ladie’s Fashion, Gift Wrapping, Hallmark Cards, Candles, Seasonal Décor, Special Occasion Memorabilia. Let us help you give voice to your caring thoughts and emotions with a wide range of products and exceptional customer service.

f Morford’s Hallmark 253.851.8369

Comfort Shoe Gallery

5125 Olympic Dr. NW, Ste. 104 | Gig Harbor, WA Welcome to Gig Harbor’s Comfort Shoe Gallery, a shoe store for traveling in comfort and style. We have both classic and trendy styles from high end quality shoe designers such as Taos, Naot, Fidji, Gabor and Eric Michael. We also carry clogs from Sanita as well as a wide variety of women’s pumps and sandals. Stop by our store whenever you are near Olympic Drive and see the difference quality makes!

www.comfortshoegallery.com 253.858.9191

A unique collection of treasures from around the world!

Harbor Home Consignment

3308 Uddenberg Lane | Gig Harbor, WA

in Gig Harbor

10 Years

Looking to spruce up your home but finding it’s not within your budget? Look no further! We have been serving the Gig Harbor area for 10 years. We have all you need to make your home feel like a brand new place. Get that designer look without the designer price. Brands of furniture include Hancock & Moore, Century, Baker, Thomasville, Henredon, Sherrill, Hooker and more. Stop in today and let us help you find the perfect furniture and home decor for you style and budget.

253.853.5994

Cooks Whimsy

5275 Olympic Drive, #103 | Gig Harbor, WA

An independent, locally owned kitchen store, Cook’s Whimsy carries quality kitchen wares and is close to home. We add a personal touch to your shopping experience, answering your cooking and product questions, and helping you be creative in the kitchen. The staff is passionate about cooking, creating, and baking and loves to share ideas and tips. www.cookswhimsy.com.

f/CooksWhimsy 253.514.6396

Dolly Mama Designs, Inc. Crystal Couture with a Heart

5727 Baker Way NW, Ste. 202 (at Canterwood Drive) | Gig Harbor, WA

Visit our boutique for fun & sparkley apparel & accessories for Golf, Tennis & Resort. Gift wrapping available. Let us create a custom order for your Bunco or Book Club, Special Event or Golf Tournament! No minimums or set up fees & free local delivery! Stop by and see us! Open most weekdays 10am-3pm or by appointment. www.dollymamadesigns.com.

253.851.5113

GIFTS ORIGINAL ART ARTIFACTS ANTIQUES COLLECTABLES JEWELRY AND MORE! 7700 Pioneer Way Suite 104 | Gig Harbor, Washington 253.858.8300 Open Mon-Fri, 10am-5:30pm Saturday, 10am-5pm or by appointment March 2014 | Gig Harbor Living 23

Building Community KMS students making a difference.

By Julianna Verboort.

“I GET GOOSE BUMPS in there sometimes, it’s just so inspiring,” Kelly Bolender grins. This creative teacher is referring to an innovative new course at Kopachuck Middle School (KMS) in Gig Harbor. Bolender developed the concept for Building Community last spring when the school decided to reformat the morning homeroom period.

Building Community was pitched as a class open to 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students who enjoy building projects and helping others; but it is much more than a shop class. It integrates literacy, project management, budgeting, funding, and other business skills with hands-on craftsmanship.

It is as though Bolender has merged shop class with Business 101 and NonProfit Management in this year-long program where students identify, design, build, and deliver high quality products to meet needs in the greater Gig Harbor community.

In Bolender’s classroom, students arrive before the bell, opening project binders and falling into discussion with their teams all of whom are eager to work. “This is one of those classes where students want to come early,” explains Bolender as kids pass him with unexpected morning zeal. Bolender greets them with a big smile and checks in with students who have questions.

He plays the role of facilitator in this class, supporting the students’ initiative.

“The kids are really engaged because this is their project, they are doing everything from start to finish. They own it,” Bolender explains.

Last September, students searched for worthy projects, representing the Building Community class while talking with non-profit organizations, parks, retirement homes, families, community members, and other departments at KMS. They came back with so many ideas that the challenge became narrowing the list. Enter the ‘Business 101’ strategies: Bolender guided his students through defining vision and mission statements, arriving

24 Gig Harbor Living | www.GoGigHarbor.com

Seattle’s skyline, laser-engraved on one of the wooden jigsaw puzzles for Cottesmore Retirement Home. Students worked with several software programs to prepare images and program the laser tool.

March 2014 | Gig Harbor Living 25

Cottesmore Retirement Home jigsaw puzzles team: Kyle Johnson, Hunter Hash, Jackson Bratrud, Lucas Johnson, Nate Maxwell, Sean Mullen.

at “One Class – One Vision – Building Community,” with the mission of “Working as a team to build quality projects that benefit our community.” These statements formed criteria to assess and select finalists from the project list.

Student teams are building steel marimba stands for the KMS band; a garden bench for Clare Bridge Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care Center; laser-engraved wood jigsaw puzzles for Harbor Place at Cottesmore; picnic tables for PenMet’s Rotary Bark Park; colorful bird houses for Olympic Alzheimer’s Residence; and a photo booth for KMS’s Year Photojournalism/Yearbook class.

During this first run of this course, Bolender says he’s had a few stressful moments, wondering how all of these projects will come to completion. “Every time I’ve been worried about some aspect though, somehow a solution comes forward,” he added. For example, the marimba stand team, Laura Nelson and Chloe White, struggled with the blade attachment on an older saw while trying to cut steel tubing. As it happens, Nelson’s dad has expertise with machinery; he came in to class and with his daughter’s help, they repaired the saw.

Student teams researched to find project construction plans, or created the designs themselves. Using their design plans, they derived a materials list, contacted stores and vendors to price materials, and developed a budget. More business skills in action!

Now for the ‘non-profit management’ piece:

Teacher Kelly Bolender, Kopachuck Middle School.

How to fund the projects? Through grants of course! Bolender provided suggestions and a framework, and students wrote their own grant letters, attaching their design plans, materials lists and budgets, and in some cases, filling out forms provided by non-profit organizations. KMS language arts teachers Vicki Tart and Joy Giovanini offered to review and edit the grant applications.

The picnic table team is comprised of nine enthusiastic boys who on this day are clustered around a shop table. The project idea came from Harlan Sorensen, whose mom works at PenMet. Owen Berg commented, “Writing the grant has been the hardest part of the project,” with the rest of the team chiming in agreement, “mostly because of computer challenges.” The boys converted PenMet’s application form to Word, and completed the grant forms using the computers in the school library. The team used Google Drive to share documents, allowing them to work collaboratively from their homes.

The boys evaluated PenMet’s picnic table construction plan and knew they needed to “tweak” it. Kyle Manke used skills he’d learned in KMS’s CAD class to draw a new plan, extending the ends of the table to accommodate guests in wheel chairs. PenMet is funding two of the picnic tables, and a grant through Rotary Club of Gig Harbor (morning chapter) will fund the third. Nate Hiatt says, “It will be cool because the park is behind my house. I will be able to use the tables.” Gray Lumber, Tacoma, and PenMet Parks delivered the materials last week, and the students have started construction; they

Clare Bridge te Julia Parks, Gr

The community has been so generous. It shows people want to help. anticipate it will take about 3 months to build the tables.

“The community has been so generous.

It shows that people want to help,” says Bolender. Grace Kivlin and Julia Parks are building the garden bench for Clare Bridge, and compared three types of wood for construction; they chose teak for its beauty and durability, knowing they’d have to work much harder to fund the expensive wood. Bolender said, “The class wants to exceed expectations when they deliver their products.” He played a phone message from Tim Thompson at Architectural Hardwoods Incorporated in Tacoma. The girls were thrilled to hear that the company had decided to donate the high value teak for the project (worth approximately $1,200.00). “It is more than we could have hoped for. We’ve been working really hard, writing grants since the beginning of the school year. For them to donate all of that, it says a lot about them,” says Kivlin, glowing with happiness. “It is so surprising and so nice!” Parks adds, smiling broadly. Rotary Club of Gig Harbor (morning

eak garden bench team: race Kivlin

chapter) is also supporting this project with finish materials and brass hardware.

Through every step in this course, students are working collaboratively. They are honing skills in writing, editing, budgeting, planning, and computer applications, as well as learning to use shop tools and working with materials. They are reaching out to the broader community to determine how they can help, and practicing public speaking to advocate for funding for the projects. To their credit, every project in Bolender’s class has been successfully funded.

Bolender is a teacher with vision, along with his administrators who supported trying something new. In a time when public schools get so much negative press, it is truly rewarding to stand in this classroom, surrounded by industrious, focused students, participating in an integrated learning experience. They are creating products that will benefit our community; we need birdhouses and jigsaw puzzles, but the bigger gain is smart young people who take initiative and exercise compassion for others. Thank you, Kelly Bolender, for Building Community in Gig Harbor.

Note: Mr. Bolender is looking for several skilled mentors to support his teams; class is held Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday mornings, from 8:05-8:45am.

Volunteers can contact Bolender through KMS’s office at 253.530.4100 or email at bolenderk@psd401.net.

www.gogigharbor.com

253.273.8524 March 2014 | Gig Harbor Living 27

28 Gig Harbor Living | www.GoGigHarbor.com

Life&Community

AWOB

Alliance of Women Owned Businesses: Building Skills and Relationships.

By Julianna Verboort.

MANY WOMEN DREAM of starting a business, and statistics support that women in increasing numbers are making that dream come true. According to The 2013 State of Women-Owned Businesses Report, commissioned by American Express OPEN, during the past 15 years, the number of women-owned firms increased at 1.5 times the national average. Women-owned firms are also providing jobs, performing a crucial function in economic recovery. The rate of women starting businesses in nontraditional fields is also increasing; for example, The Washington Post recently cited 11% of construction businesses as women-owned.

Reflecting the national trend, women in the Gig Harbor area are participating in the rise of women owned enterprises too. Building a business takes planning, talent, and resources, and women entrepreneurs know the value of peer support and education.

With that in mind, in 2010 several local women collaborated to build their vision of a resource organization for women business owners. They established the Alliance of Women Owned Businesses as a membership-based non-profit group, with the mission of empowering women entrepreneurs to achieve higher levels of business success.

Today, AWOB serves Pierce, Kitsap, Thurston and Mason counties, providing a rich array of educational events, lectures, mentoring, and recognition programs.

Membership is comprised of women business owners, partners, independent contractors, commission-based professionals, non-profit participants, business

March 2014 | Gig Harbor Living   29

Photo by Family Memories Photography courtesy of AWOB.

Photo courtesy of AWOB.

students and others who support AWOB’s mission and goals.

Dyann Lyon is a health and wellness entrepreneur and joined AWOB several years ago. “I have been involved in many different types of organizations and groups over the years. AWOB has a definite heartbeat of business professionalism and authenticity.

That is a rare and delightful combination that I am thrilled to be a part of,” said Lyon.

“These women, and a few good men, are very conscious of doing business in a way that builds relationships and community.

There are many aspects to business that AWOB helps us all explore in depth through roundtable discussions and great speakers.

In the process of learning together, I have forged wonderful relationships that have helped my business grow and flourish.”

Jill Neumeister, AWOB’s current president, points out that AWOB’s primary focus is providing tools for entrepreneurial growth.

AWOB hosts three meeting series with monthly gatherings for members, some of which are open to non-members too.

THE ORGANIZATION I have been involved in many different types of organizations and groups over the years. AWOB has a definite heartbeat of business professionalism and authenticity. That is a rare and delightful combination that I am thrilled to be a part of.

30 Gig Harbor Living | www.GoGigHarbor.com

• W.O.N. (Women Owned Nights) are held the last Tuesday of each month at 5:30pm in changing locations; each month a guest facilitator shares a business related topic. These meetings are free for members and those interested in learning more about AWOB. • The monthly Power Series is held each second Wednesday at the Inn at Gig Harbor, with guest speakers experienced in subjects relevant to women entrepreneurs. The Power Series is free for members and first time

guests, with a $25.00 entry for others; doors open at 4:30pm.

• Meet Me for Coffee social hour, held at 7:30 a.m. on the third Wednesday of each month at Gig Harbor’s Sunset Grill. This event is for members only and provides an opportunity for members to get to know each other while sharing about their businesses.

AWOB member Marty Thacker runs the nonprofit Gig Harbor Film Festival. “I’ve been most impressed by the monthly speakers and the collaboration of those business women who bring value to both the members and organization, and who demonstrate evidence of entrepreneurial and or leadership spirit. It is a fun, informative group.”

On May 15, AWOB will host its biannual Crystal Star Gala Awards Dinner and Ceremony. Tickets for the event can be purchased through AWOB’s website beginning March 12. Awards include: The Rising Star Award, recognizing a woman entrepreneur responsible for a business established within the past 5 years, who also demonstrates business growth and participates in her community; the Crystal Star Award, honoring a woman entrepreneur who has profitably run her business for more than five years and actively participates in community or charitable causes; and new this year, the Shining Star Award, designated for an AWOB member whose practices demonstrate entrepreneurial leadership while contributing to AWOB’s mission and vision.

For more information about all of AWOB’s great offerings, please visit AWOB’s website: allianceofwomenownedbusinesses.com.

up a child in the way he should go, and “Train when he is old he will not depart from it. ” Proverbs 22:6

Ongoing Registration NOW for the 2014/2015 School Year.

Contact the school office at 253.858.7632 or stop by anytime during school hours for a tour.

Pre-School Through 8th Grade

3555 Edwards Drive Gig Harbor, WA 98335 253.858.7632 www.stnicholascs.org

March 2014 | Gig Harbor Living 31

Narrows Electric

2014

Gig Harbor HOMETOWN EXPERTS “We mean business.”

Are you looking for a professional electrician that has years of industry experience and training? Narrows Electric offers the best in residential and commercial wiring, residential wiring, electrical repair and other electrical services to Gig Harbor, Washington and the surrounding areas. We have over 26 years of industry experience and all the skills for your new installations or repairs. When you are in need of an electrical contractor make sure to call Narrows Electric today!

Gig Harbor—3509 57th St Ct NW 253.851.7077 | www.NarrowsElectricGH.com f Narrows Electric Gig Harbor

Hodge Engineering, Inc.

Hodge Engineering is dedicated to providing designers, builders, and home owners clear concise residential engineering in a timely manner. With 11 years in Gig Harbor engineering structures Hodge Engineering has the knowledge and tools necessary to tackle just about any structural issue. Find us on Facebook.

Gig Harbor—2615 Jahn Ave NW Suite E-5 253.857.7055 | fax 253.857.7599 HodgeEngineering.com f Hodge Engineering

Williams Tree & Stump Removal

THE BEST

We have the highest quality, 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, our crews provide exceptional cleanup service. Call us today for a free estimate!

Gig Harbor, Washington

Gig Harbor’s best businesses have a proven track record and excel in customer relations.

253.229.4119 | WilliamsTreeandStump.com f Williams Tree and Stump

Give one of them a call today to find out how they can help you!

Have a fleet of commercial vehicles (5 or more), or dreaming of having one? We can protect that dream!

Come and see us to for a comprehensive insurance review, we will make sure that you have the right amount of coverage to protect your dreams, whatever they may be. Our friendly staff will make sure that you have a thorough understanding of your coverage and a reasonable price. Find us on Facebook!

Gig Harbor—4949 Borgen Blvd Nw Ste B102

Tim Lopez, Agent American Family Insurance

253.858.7200 | Fax: 253.858.7700 www.trlopez.com | f/amfam

Green Family Dentistry

Judy’s Upholstery

253.851.8151 | f Green Family Dental www.michellegreenfamilydental.com

253.858.9798 | www.JudyUpholstery.com

We’re creating smiles everyday! With high quality dentistry and gentle comprehensive care, our patient’s experience is our top priority! We offer the Sapphire Whitening System, Emergency Care, Cristal Veneers and much more! Children are always welcome and flexible payment options are available as needed.

Gig Harbor— 5122 Olympic Drive NW

Don’t replace it! Let us re-upholster it back to life! We have the styles, and colors, to fit your taste and budget.

Whether it’s recovering your favorite old couch or chair, revitalizing your sun-bleached patio cushions or restoring your grandma’s old rocker to like-new condition, we do it all. We also offer free estimates on all your repairs, replacements and refurbishes.

Gig Harbor—10024 Burnham Drive NW

RR Studio

With our premium eyelash extensions, you can have fuller, longer and curlier lashes instantly. Premium products vary in multitudes of colors, lengths, widths and curls to create a custom look that’s right for you. We also specialize in precision brow shaping complementing your unique bone structure and eye shape. Call Roni at 253.226.7482 or RanDi at 253.347.7356 today for an appointment.

Gig Harbor—3302 Harborview Drive, Suite 2 Roni - 253.226.7482 RanDi - 253.347.7356 f RR Studio

NE ED A BODY SHOP ?

FIX AUTO GIG HARBOR

“Our clients are the most special people on earth.”

FIX AUTO

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

Gig Harbor—2905 Jahn Ave NW #8

253-858-3522 • WWW.FIXAUTOGIGHARBOR.COM

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Debra L. Burk, Owner. Full service bookkeeping, data entry, payroll, accounts payable & receivable, and monthly & quarterly taxes. Pick up and delivery available.

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Specializing in superior carpet and upholstery cleaning services.

Also providing 24 hour emergency water damage restoration.

Great Car Care Center

With four service centers, we provide a range of highquality professional services. Tunnel Car Wash with Hand Prep and Dry, Oil Change and other Maintenance Services, Detail Center, Interior & Exterior Detailing and Do-It-Your-Self-Service, 24 HOURS – Six Wash Bays & Vacuum Facility. Get a free wash with every oil change!

Gig Harbor—6750 Kimball Drive 253.858.1888 www.greatcarcarecenter.com

Gig Harbor Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

Serving the Gig Harbor community since 1996, Harbor Carpet specializes in superior carpet and upholstery cleaning utilizing state-of-the art equipment and cleaning methods to ensure client satisfaction. We also provide 24 hour emergency water damage restoration.

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Serving the Gig Harbor Community Since 1996 www.HarborCarpet.com March 2014 | Gig Harbor Living 33

Chad Glover having a great time on the court.

Photo by Jerry Chunn.

GigHarborAthletes

Chad Glover GIG HARBOR HIGH SCHOOL.

BY JULIANNA VERBOORT.

THIS 17-YEAR-OLD senior at Gig Harbor High School has been a varsity basketball captain for two years and has already been Gateway’s Athlete of the Week twice this year!

of the friendships that I have were made through sports.”

Chad’s size has been one of his sports challenges. “I have been the smallest kid on the basketball court and baseball field for about as long as I can remember. I have had to work extremely hard to be able to compete... and not let that stop me from being a good athlete.”

With a cumulative grade point average exceeding 3.9, he should have no trouble moving forward with his plan of attending a four-year college and playing Division III basketball. Chad has followed his dad’s business career with interest; he plans to pursue a business career as well and hopes to coach basketball too.

Because he plays both baseball and basketball, Chad is busy with sports practice after school nearly every day. “I don’t have any problem with that however, because that is all spent with my team.

Forming relationships with my teammates is probably my favorite part of the sports

This athlete’s strong work ethic applies to more than sports.

Chad offers this advice: “I’ve learned that hard work pays off. If you work hard you will see results, whether shooting a ball, hitting a ball, or other aspects of life outside of sports.”

BASKETBALL “I have had to work extremely hard to be able to compete...and not let that stop me from being a good athlete.”

A few fun facts about Chad: Most memorable athletic moment: “My most memorable moment was probably this basketball season when we played South Kitsap. I hit a shot at the buzzer to send it into overtime, and we ended up winning on another buzzer beater in overtime.

The crowd stormed the court and it was awesome.”

I play. Not many people become as close with each other as athletes do because of how much time we spend together. Most

V

Chad Glover plays both basketball and baseball for Gig Harbor High School. P hoto by Jerry Chunn.

Favorite food: “Mexican.”

Favorite teacher: “Dr. Perry because he cares about his students. I had him for English last year, and I loved it. He makes you work hard in his class, but it’s all for a specific purpose. I learned a lot and still take many things he taught me into my other classes.”

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PHS athlete Emily Stavig (#8, back row, third from left): Celebration huddle after winning a point.

Photo by Kier Stavig.

Emily Stavig, Peninsula High School: Pregame handshake.

Photo by Kier Stavig.

Emily Stavig

VOLLEYBALL

PENINSULA HIGH SCHOOL. BY JULIANNA VERBOORT. IN HER 18 YEARS, this Peninsula High School senior has racked up numerous awards and achievements. She’s received the Peninsula High School Scholar Athlete award and the WIAA Distinguished Scholarship Award for four years; this school year, she was the Homecoming Spirit Queen and the Tacoma Athletic Commission Peninsula Volleyball Player of the Year; she’s received a letter in volleyball for four years and has been team captain for two years; she is a Senior Class Senator for the Associated Student Body; she’s consistently been an Honor Roll student since middle school; she has received several SPSL awards too; the list goes on!

Next fall, Emily will attend Gonzaga University to study biochemistry. She has long been interested in science and mathematics, so for Emily biochemistry seems like the best fit. “It’s improving life for humans,” she said. Emily hopes to play intramurals and possibly even club volleyball.

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Emily’s advice to student athletes is to seek out the right sport. She says, “If you don’t love the sport, don’t play it! Just try something new! There’s always the option to try another sport, and you may possibly love that sport much more! Do what makes you happy.” Her passion is clearly volleyball. “I love how every time the team gets a point, I’m able to burst out in screams and excitement. It’s always the best, cheering for your teammates and watching them grow throughout the season.”

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Emily’s biggest challenge came in January 2013 when she sustained a concussion.

She could not play for three months. Emily turned the challenge into a positive. “The hardest thing was being patient. I came to the realization that I wasn’t going to get any healthier unless I took the time off.

When I was cleared, I worked out twice as much, especially that summer. I made up for lost time and ended up being the strongest I’ve been for school season.”

“I love how every time the team gets a point I’m able to burst out in screams and excitement.”

A few fun facts about Emily: Memorable athletic moment: “When my club team took first at a Seattle University tournament. The championship game was against a team we’d constantly tried to beat in the previous season but always came up short. We ended up shutting down the team completely and winning it all. It was just such a meaningful moment for my team and I.” Favorite food: “I absolutely love potatoes.

Any shape or form.”

Favorite teacher: “Mrs. O’Leary. She’s constantly inspiring us to help others and give back to our community.”

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March 2014 | Gig Harbor Living 35

Whitefish, Montana Weekend Getaway. By Colin Anderson.

WHITEFISH, MONTANA is truly one of the fist iconic tourist cities in the Western U.S. When Glacier National Park was officially given its designation, scores of tourists from the east coast loaded on the Amtrak Empire Builder and traveled west for days, finally landing in Whitefish, their last stop before entering the park. Whitefish grew so quickly that it was affectionately known as ‘Stumptown’ as streets and buildings were being built faster than stumps from felled trees could be removed. Today, the town has blossomed into a mix of upscale shops and eateries as well as authentic western saloons and ranches. It’s a place where high fashion meets cattle ranchin’.

If you don’t want to make the trek from Gig Harbor in your own vehicle, Iet someone else do the work. You can hop on an Amtrak train and take it all the way to the Whitefish Depot where those first adventure seekers landed decades ago. The Whitefish Depot is within walking distance of downtown and shuttles and taxis can be arranged to take you to your accommodations.

The other main attraction that helps define Whitefish is Big Mountain, now known as Whitefish Mountain Resort. The mountain is visible looking north of town and having been constructed in the 1940’s is one of the oldest resorts in the country. From the top you are also looking down on town and beautiful Whitefish Lake. There are ski in/ski out condos, luxury homes, and other mountainside lodging if your weekend involves a heavy dose of powder skiing. Summer time brings additional activities to the mountain including hiking, mountain biking, zip lining, an alpine slide, and scenic chair rides.

For the ‘out and about’ crowd there are dozens of restaurants and bars to choose from, many more than a town of less than 7,000 needs. Stop into Great Northern Brewing and pick up a

growler of freshly made Montana beer to go or take a stroll through town and find fresh fish, elk steak and burgers, pizza, Italian, and just about anything else your pallet can handle. Other than its natural beauty, Whitefish also boasts a symphony with an ever rotating list of musicians as well as a theatre company that puts on performances throughout the year.

If you’re traveling in summer, it would be a mistake not to visit ‘The Crown Jewel of the Continent’ Glacier National Park. Just 30 minutes separates you from the West Glacier Park entrance and some of the most spectacular scenery in North America. Take the ‘Going to the Sun Road’ to Logan Pass, and it will be one of the more memorable drives of your life. It’s a white knuckle ride with thousand foot cliffs between your vehicle and a few feet of pavement, but the views are spectacular. Remember it can snow any month of the year in Glacier so just because it’s 75 degrees at the bottom doesn’t

This house is warm and cozy and you just can’t beat the view.

Highly recommend it for a great Puget Sound getaway.

- Kris

Sunrise Beach Whitefish is positively one of the great vacation spots in our region. mean you won’t need a sweatshirt and gloves at the pass. The visitor center is located at the top of the 6,600 foot pass and is a wealth of knowledge about the park. You’re also likely to see mountain goats and bighorn sheep.

Keep an eye out for Grizzlies and elk on your drive up and down. There are countless trails and backcountry to explore as well, just be sure to do your research before choosing a route.

Whitefish is positively one of the great vacation spots in our region. People from all over the country save up for a once in a lifetime trip to see its beauty. So whether by car, plane, or train, a trip to ‘Stumptown’ shouldn’t be missed.

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March 2014 | Gig Harbor Living 37

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Health&Lifestyle All or Nothing

A word of advice from Dr. Seuss

By Dr. Joe Tessendorf Tessendorf Family Chiropractic, Hayden, ID

AS A PARENT of two young children, I read nightly to my daughters.

One evening I came across a quote that resonated with me then and has stuck with me since; “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better, it’s not.” The doctor who wrote these words was Dr. Seuss. Think about that for a moment, is it true or not true? Apply it to your everyday life, and you will find more times than not it is. How many decisions do we make in a day? How many of these decisions impact your health? Virtually every decision you make pushes you closer to health or sickness. You are the one responsible, and the one who has to care a whole awful lot. I will show you how health is not all or nothing and how being the one responsible is empowering.

Ask a ten year old if an apple or donut is better for them. They know

the apple is the right choice. Ask them if exercise is better than no exercise or water better than soda. How come we don’t regularly make the healthier choice? It’s not because we don’t understand which is better; it’s that it’s not entirely clear the devastation that these poor choices have on us. How big of a difference does one apple or donut truly have? Not much in a day, but how about over a year or a lifetime?

Small decisions and choices add up to make big differences.

Think about your last checkup, physical, or yearly exam. What was measured? Weight, blood pressure, cholesterol, along with a host of other things. Did your values indicate a picture of your health at that exact moment in time or an ongoing movie of the direction your health is heading? It is irrelevant what type of practitioner measured the values, M.D., D.O., D.C., N.P., you get the point. Let’s say I have

March 2014 | Gig Harbor Living 39

normal values but eat fast food twice a day, don’t exercise and have a terrible social structure. Do you think I’m headed towards sickness or health? Quite obviously I will eventually become sick, but at what point do my “measurable values” indicate this?

Waiting until a symptom arises or value is elevated is like building a boat after the flood.

If normal measured values indicate we are healthy at that exact point, great! But these values give no indication if your daily lifestyle choices are directing you towards health or illness. We at Tessendorf Family Chiropractic offer a different approach, the “Health Risk Assessment.” An assessment that includes the physiological stressors, lifestyle stress load, physical quality of life, and psychosocial quality of life and lumps it into a detailed breakdown specifically for you. Not only does it give us a snapshot in time of you current health, but also we have the “ongoing movie” of where your health is heading. Even if you’re asymptomatic, undiagnosed, or have normal values, we are able to predict future health risk! Think of the impact this will have on prevention.

We want you to understand that if you eat a donut and an apple, you’re healthier than if you only had the donut. Understand that we don’t develop health or chronic illness in a week. Understand we are all in a race.

It’s not a sprint - it’s a marathon called life.

Understand health is in your hands, and it’s your greatest asset. Understand that just as Dr. Seuss wants you to care a whole awful lot, so do we! The tools we utilize are to empower you to be the best parent, spouse, coworker,

and individual you can be. Remember health is NOT all or nothing. Lastly, pick up a book

by Dr. Seuss from time to time, it will put a smile on your face regardless of your age.

Headaches Are Not Normal

A few lifestyle adjustments can often provide relief.

Article courtesy of Coeur d’Alene Hand Therapy & Healing Center.

“I DON’T HAVE HEADACHES MUCH… only two or three times a week.” When I hear these words, I realize how we often ignore or force through symptoms until they “scream” at us or become chronic to the point we become non- functional.

There are many simple things you can do to understand, prevent and resolve headaches if you are informed and listen to your body. Many people think of headaches as “normal.” However, headaches are part of our “early warning system” that something is not right. They affect our attention and focus as well as decrease our productivity.

Sometimes headaches debilitate us, undermine our best intentions and interfere with our lives.

The most common reason for headaches is dehydration. A simple glass or two of water can relieve or minimize up to 80% of headaches. Improper nutrition is another culprit. The combination of lack of sleep, no breakfast, a quick or non-existent lunch, eating foods high in sugar and caffeine with minimal water intake and poor air quality are the perfect recipe for headache and poor performance. The majority of headaches are “tension” headaches caused by physical or emotional stress, postural misalignment and sustained positions or motions. These can occur at work, home, or in sports and are common reasons for referral to therapy. For example, staring for hours at the computer, long periods of driving or deskwork with neck bent forward or extended, all can trigger occipital (base of skull) or frontal headaches and eye or neck pain. Long periods in the dentist’s chair can be quite emotionally stressful, as well as placing the head and neck in unusual positions for long periods of time. Headache with TMJ dysfunction (characterized by clicking, popping, pain or limited movement of the temporo-mandibular joint of the jaw) is also common. The TMJ joint is particularly

susceptible to changes in posture and holding patterns.

A therapist trained to look at the whole body and your lifestyle can assess the triggers and factors associated with your headaches and develop a treatment plan specifically for you. The plan may include myofascial release or other manual therapy techniques, stretches, exercises, as well as assessment of your home and work activities.

Other causes of headaches are allergies, sinus problems, infection, hormone imbalances or medication reactions. Seek medical attention promptly if you have headaches from recent falls or accidents, head trauma, increased pain, tingling, numbness of arms or face and decreased mental clarity, since they could signal serious medical problems. Medication may help, but used too frequently may not relieve and can increase headaches. So before you reach for the medication bottle, here are some tips: • Listen to your body - catch the headache before it becomes “full blown” • Refocus, breath, relax and stretch • Drink water • Eat a healthy snack (not sugar or caffeine) • Cold compresses on neck or forehead may help and/or keeping body warm If headaches continue, monitor the type, frequency, intensity and duration so that you have information to share with your medical professional and get the treatment you need to keep you productive, active and full of life!

It’s not the good life, it’s the best life!

Welcome home to Harbor Place!

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

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

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

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

March 2014 | Gig Harbor Living 41

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Sports Massage

Sports massage is designed to help athletes achieve the best performance.

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MANY AMERICANS FOCUS ON the active part of exercise — lifting more weight or running more miles. But you build muscle during recovery, not while you’re exercising. For this reason, athletes of all levels are starting to pay exercise routines and recovery periods equal attention. And for many, sports massage has become a vital tool in the recovery process.

Sports massage is a specific form of massage designed to help athletes achieve the best possible performance and conditioning. Therapists usually concentrate on the areas most affected by a particular type of exercise. For example, a sports massage for a cyclist would address the quads, while a swimmer would need more work on the chest and upper back.

“Sports massage benefits all types of athletes; from the weekend warrior to the serious competitor. Receiving sports massage on a regular basis can increase muscle flexibility, reduce pain and inflammation from overuse during physical activity and promote faster recovery time,” said CG Funk, vice president of product development at Massage Envy.

Massage Envy recommends sports massage. Post-event massages help athletes recover after competitions, not only by increasing circulation to remove fatigue toxins and soreness, but also to promote mental relaxation.

Training massage helps athletes make the most of their exercise routines. Sports massage can reduce the likelihood of injury in oft-used muscles while also speeding recovery time, so athletes can work harder and more often.

But don’t think only professional athletes can benefit from massage — sports massage helps anyone who engages in physical activity, including swimmers, weight lifters, runners, golfers, ball players, skaters, dancers, tennis players and boxers.

Professional athletes will also arrange preevent massages, as massaging the muscles before a workout helps them warm up more quickly.

For more information, visit www.massageenvy.com.

Gig Harbor Chiropractic & Massage www.GigHarborWellness.com

Dr. Greg Messer Dr. Keri Messer

253.857.6500

Training massage helps athletes make the most of their exercise routines. It benefits all types of athletes; from the weekend warrior to the serious competitor.

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

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March 2014 | Gig Harbor Living 43

PETS AND ALLERGIES

Educate yourself on symptoms and treatment.

By Dr. Dawn Mehra, North Idaho Animal Hospital, Sandpoint.

QUESTION: HOW OFTEN SHOULD A DOG LICK ITS FEET? a. never b. a few times per day c. whenever they are laying down d. most of their waking hours I found myself asking this question when one of my dog’s occasional foot licking had become frequent, to the point of annoying!

Foot and belly licking, ear scratching and head shaking are common sights if you own a pet; however, if your pet is licking its feet more than 1-2 times per day, there is a good chance that a deeper issue is at hand.

Human allergies show up as runny noses, red, watery eyes, and abdominal bloating and gas. Dogs and cats on the other hand, get itchy, inflamed skin manifested by licking, chewing, scratching, and rubbing those ears on your clean carpet. As with humans, pets can have year-round allergies. It’s important to determine whether they are environmental or food-related, because often they present with similar signs. There are subtle patterns and clues that your veterinarian looks for to help them decide the first step for diagnosis and treatment.

44 Gig Harbor Living | www.GoGigHarbor.com

By the time they are examined by their veterinarian, many allergic pets have more going on than just the simple allergic reaction. That frequent foot licking keeps moisture between warm toes and creates the perfect environment for bacteria and yeast to multiply like crazy! A similar process happens in those deep, dark, warm ear canals when the skin becomes inflamed from an allergic reaction. This means that skin infections are usually the first thing to get under control when starting an allergy treatment because infections alone create their own discomfort.

It is important to know that sometimes trial treatments are required to rule out (or in) a certain form of allergy. There are also underlying diseases that can potentiate skin disorders, making them resistant to treatment. Therefore other seemingly unrelated tests may be recommended to ensure you aren’t fighting a losing battle.

Allergic skin diseases can be frustrating and take time to treat before results are seen. Pet owners should not lose heart! As long as they are patient and committed to treating their itchy and painful pet, positive results will be achieved.

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ALLERGIES IN PETS EVEN THOUGH YOUR DOG or cat cannot talk he/she generally tends to “act normal”. They won’t tell you it’s uncomfortable until pretty late in the disease process. That is because pack mentality is genetically wired in our companion animal friends.

Displaying weakness to the head chief (their provider) could get them sent to the shelter! So look between those toes, down in the ears, and while you may miss something subtle, an obvious problem will jump out at you and let you know your brave pet has been suffering quietly, waiting for relief. Do remember those ear canals are deep and can only be fully visualized with an otoscope, so there may be a problem you can’t see. So if your friend is scratching more frequently than normal, it is better to be safe than sorry. Have your pet examined by his/her veterinarian.

The longer the problem is present, the longer treatment will have to be.

So, the next time your dogs’ incessant licking makes you crazy, think about how you feel when someone tells you to strop scratching that giant mosquito bite and get him/her examined right away!

When it comes to the health of your animals, you want the absolute best. At Harbor Animal Hospital, we take your animal’s health as seriously as you do.

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March 2014 | Gig Harbor Living 45

A SHORT DRIVE

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